2 May 2009
Cambridge Stud-bred
Jessicabeel (Zabeel x More Diamonds) earned a trip to Brisbane for the Group 1 Queensland Oaks (2400m) on May 30 with her win in the De Bortoli Wines Handicap (1800m) at Rosehill on Saturday.
The John O'Shea-trained filly was too good against the older mares in Saturday's race and left no doubt about her claims for a tilt at the Oaks.
O'Shea said after the win: "The filly has to go north now for the Queensland Oaks."
O'Shea plans to give Jessicabeel one more start before the Oaks which will be in the Doomben Roses which is a fortnight beforehand.
Jockey Hugh Bowman said Jessicabeel deserved the win and was a good chance for the Oaks.
Bowman sent Jessicabeel forward after starting from a wide barrier. The combination hit the front at the top of the home straight and raced well clear of the opposition in the final stages.
Jessicabeel was sold from the Cambridge Stud draft at the 2007 National Yearling Sales at Karaka for $220,000 to John O'Shea Bloodstock.