Verona Rose is set for a major test in the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m) at Rosehill on Saturday, as she steps closer to her ultimate goal, the ATC Australian Oaks.
The daughter of Castelvecchio won her debut at Kembla Grange in November, and after a first-up victory at Wyong, Gary Portelli adjusted her feeding routine to help her bulk up for the challenge ahead.
“She was really tucked up, and I thought she was ready for the Oaks then,” Portelli said. “I got her more oats, fed her heavily, and she bulked up really nicely.”
Portelli’s changes led to a win in the Kembla Grange Classic (1600m), and Verona Rose now heads to the Vinery Stud Stakes unbeaten. However, the race will be a tough challenge, with reigning VRC Oaks winner Treasurethe Moment and several other top contenders in the field.
“It’s the strongest race she has been in,” said Portelli. “You can’t hide from them when you’re winning, so we’ve got to have a go.”
Kerrin McEvoy retains the ride from barrier six.