Queman and Harry Coffey after winning the Group 1 Oakleigh Plate at Caulfield. (Image: Racing Photos)
Group 1-winning sprinter Queman is right on track for Saturday’s William Reid Stakes at Moonee Valley after a tick over jumpout on his home track.
The five-year-old gelding was given a laidback spin around Strathalbyn with the eye-catching piece of work set to have the Oakleigh Plate winner in top shape for his clash with Imperatriz, according to Shane Oxlade who trains in partnership with daughter Cassie.
“He did what he needed to do. It’s funny Lauren (Stojakovic, regular rider) said he felt like he was going half pace, but he was solid in his gallop and is right for the William Reid,” he said.
Stablemate Sghirripa has headed for a short break after contesting the Newmarket handicap and will be aimed at the Goodwood in May.
“Sghirripa’s home and having a couple of weeks off before we look at the Irwin into the Goodwood,’’ Oxlade said.
“Sghirripa will have two, two-and-a-half weeks in the paddock, the other bloke (Queman) can have a short rest after the William Reid, but the Irwin looks the right race for them heading towards the Goodwood.”
Queman is a $26 outsider in what shapes as a hot William Reid field likely to include several other Group 1 winners.