NZ filly Solid Gold confirmed for back-up in Queensland Oaks

New Zealand filly Solid Gold is set to back up in Saturday’s Queensland Oaks at Eagle Farm after emerging from her Queensland Derby performance as one of the leading contenders for the three-year-old fillies’ feature.

The daughter of Turn Me Loose finished fifth against the colts and geldings after giving away a huge start.

A capacity field of 18 runners plus five emergencies was declared on Tuesday, with Solid Gold drawing favourably in barrier four after jumping from gate 14 in the Derby.

Australasian Oaks winner Panova will carry the No. 1 saddlecloth and shapes as a major threat for trainer Chris Waller after drawing barrier six, while stablemates Chispa and Single Red face tougher assignments from barriers 20 and 21, respectively.

With regular rider James McDonald unavailable through suspension, Ben Melham has secured the mount on Panova, who heads Oaks betting following her Group 1 success in Adelaide.