Muchea trainer Justine Erkelens is focused on the Bunbury Cup (2000m) next Saturday with Own The Queen, hoping the talented mare can return to the winner’s circle.

After a stellar 2023, where she won the Ascot 1000 Guineas (1800m), Natasha Stakes (2200m), and WA Oaks (2400m), this campaign has been difficult for Own The Queen.

Bad luck in running, barriers, and a buck-jumping incident in the Ascot Mile have marred her preparations.

Despite setbacks, Erkelens remains optimistic, pointing to strong performances such as a second place in the Starstruck Classic (1600m) and a third in the Detonator Stakes (1800m).

“It’s just been a shitty prep, really,” Erkelens said. “But she’s pretty smart and gets over things quickly, which is a bonus.”

Looking ahead, Erkelens is confident Own The Queen will perform well in the Bunbury Cup.

Meanwhile, Erkelens has found another promising filly in Machine Gun Gracie, who impressed with a 4 ½-length win at Pinjarra after a second-place finish at Bunbury.

“She is showing us so much potential,” Erkelens said.

However, Erkelens is dealing with the disappointment of an injury to three-year-old filly Northern Diamond, who will miss her autumn campaign due to a bone chip operation.