Trainer aware of task ahead

 

Trainer Danny O'Brien knows Shamrocker faces a huge challenge to "do a Research" and complete the AJC Derby/Oaks double at Randwick on Saturday.

At the weekend Shamrocker became the first filly since Research in 1989 to beat the boys in the AJC Australian Derby.

Research won the Derby by two lengths, then had to back up four days later in the Oaks.

Shamrocker has the luxury of seven days between the Derby and Oaks, but O'Brien respects the scale of the challenge.

"It won't be a gimme, I know that for sure," he said yesterday.

"Brazilian Pulse is a quality filly, Mirjulisa Lass looked good winning the Vinery (on April 2) and there's a couple of handy Kiwis coming across as well."

Best of the Kiwis is the Graeme Rogerson-trained Dating, a $21 shot after a fourth in the New Zealand Oaks.

TAB Sportsbet has Shamrocker equal favourite with Brazilian Pulse at $3.50. Mirjulisa Lass is at $10.

"It has always been the plan to go Derby into the Oaks. That's what this preparation has been based around," O'Brien said.

"Winning the (Australian) Guineas on the way through was a bit of a bonus. It's been all about getting her to 2400m at the big Randwick track.

"I'm really pleased with the way she's come through the Derby. She's put herself right up there now and I'm sure she'll run well again."

Jockey Glen Boss spoke with more confidence about the Oaks.

"Surely she's the one to beat after winning a Derby?" he said. "She felt strong at the finish of the Derby.

"I think she's a really good staying filly who is still developing, which is good for the spring."

Story by Adam Hamilton, to view full Herald Sun story click here

Photo by Sam Ruttyn, The Daily Telegraph