Mohave Takes Out Queensland Day Plate

Godolphin Australia has posted a late win on 2015 Queensland Oaks Day at Doomben this afternoon as Mohave mustered a strong turn of foot to take out the Listed Queensland Day Plate (1200m).

Jumping from the gates well jockey James McDonald immediately led the Exceed And Excel gelding forward and settled in prime position on the heels of early leader Mywayorthehighway who set a fast pace towards the bend.

Mohave wins the Queensland Day Plate at Doomben

Mohave wins the Queensland Day Plate at Doomben. Photo by Daniel Costello

Remaining one wide with cover rounding onto the final straight, Mohave quickly upped the tempo and pulled clear of his rivals; producing a strong enough sprint to hold off a fast-finishing She’s Miss Devine; Durendal running on for third.

McDonald was thrilled with the feel offered up by Mohave in the 2015 Queensland Day Plate and is confident the firm track at Doomben this afternoon played a big part in the three-year-old’s impressive performance.

“It’s been a long day so good to finish on a high,” McDonald said.

“Full credit to the team – they took the blinkers off and it paid dividends.

“He’s a real honest sort of horse and tries hard so a pleasure to ride.

“He likes firm tracks which he hasn’t got in Sydney so his form’s not great but he’s got here in good condition and performed well.

“He was probably entitled to get a little bit tired, they made us work a bit early but he fought on.”

Talented filly She’s Miss Devine received an ideal run in transit on the rails and looked a sure thing upon rounding the final straight alongside Mohave, but was unable to produce enough of a turn of foot to post a maiden black type win.

Durendal was aiming for a third-consecutive race win in the Queensland Day Plate but was unlucky to be blocked for a run late; recovering well-enough for third.

Next weekend’s Group 2 Queensland Guineas (1600m) at Doomben will figure as the major season target for many of the 2015 Queensland Day Plate’s field.

About The Author

Jared Timms

Jared graduated with a journalism degree in 2011. He is a keen sports fan and has enjoyed many accolades for his lively writing style and comprehensive coverage of major sporting events and horse racing. Today, you can find Jared cheering on his beloved Manchester City with a beer in hand.