Impeccably-bred filly MAD ANA entered Queensland Oaks calculations after shedding her maiden status over 2210m at Ipswich’s Labour Day meeting. 

Having come close to breaking through at her previous start, the three-year-old daughter of Dundeel showcased her strength and stamina with a dashing display under Brandon Lerena, who now has two wins from his last two rides for the stable following CANADIAN EXPRESS’ victory on Friday.

The pair travelled comfortably throughout in the Maiden Plate, with Lerena’s soft hands allowing his mount to settle into a controlled rhythm. When it was time to go, MAD ANA clicked into gear and soon put a margin on her rivals to score by just under two lengths. 

“She definitely should have won last start, but that’s racing,” said Michael. 

“It’s good to see her prove that she can get out to a trip today, and it was a pretty soft win in the end. Brandon’s got good hands and was able to get her to improve without over-exerting her, then when he pressed the button she had plenty left in the tank. 

“In two-and-a-half weeks, there’s a three-year-old race back here over 2150 metres, which might give us a shot at getting her into the Oaks. So we’ll head there and see how it pans out, she’s by Dundeel out of  Group 1-placed mare so why not aim high with her?”

Many congratulations to all her owners: Mr C Mirgis, Mr B L Hannon, Mr M Sommer, Mr P W Traill, Beddalife 2, Mr P A Curran, Snr K M Kelly, Mrs H M Kendler, Mr G T Stephenson, Mr K G Caldow, Mr B J Leonard, Mr S Antczak, Mrs C White, Mr G S Curtiss and Mr J Lolesi.