The Queensland Oaks has been robbed of interest following the scratching of harness racing favourite Rockmemama.
Sawyers Gully trainer Darryl Thomas reluctantly made the call to withdraw his star pupil from Saturday’s Albion Park feature today (Thursday) owing to the filly having a high temperature.
A last start winner of the Gr.1 NSW Breeders Challenge at Menangle on June 26, the Rock N Roll Heaven filly was installed as the favourite with UBET bookies after landing gate three.
“We were all set to travel up today but after we did all our cross checks, she had spiked with a temperature and therefore we couldn’t take any chances with her so we scratched. It’s disappointing but she always come first, we’re grateful with what she’s already done this season with two feature race victories.” Thomas said.
It remains unclear at this stage whether Rockmemama will be retired or race on next season with a decision to be made following her immediate spell.
Rockmemama has won 6 of her 10 career starts, all six victories have come this season while banking more than $136,000 in prizemoney.
“This filly has battled injuries and setback throughout her career and was considered that we would retire her after the Queensland Oaks but she will have a really good break and then we will reassess when her break is over.
“If she spells well and looks ready for another campaign, then we will give her another opportunity with the four-year-old mares races the primary target but that will depend on her, if it happens then it will happen.”Rockmemama is raced by her breeder, Max Deckert.
Star New Zealand filly Nek Time is now a clear favourite to claim her maiden Group One victory with UBET bookies pricing her as a$1.90 elect.A dominant winner last week of the Gold Coast Oaks, the Terry and Glenys Chmiel prepared filly has drawn nicely in gate three following the scratching of Rockmemama.
Champion reinsman Dexter Dunn will again take the drive on Nek Time in the 2138m feature.
The scratching of the horse paves the way for first emergency Vinland to gain a start in the race.
Chris Barsby