Simon Miller-trained filly Petula has been selected in Sky Racing’s slot to run in The Quokka and will tackle her high-profile stablemate Amelia’s Jewel in the $5 million race on April 20.
Sky Racing has been involved as a slotholder for the first time and Petula came on its radar having won two of her past three starts, including the Listed WA Breeders’ Classic at Bunbury in February,
Her most recent run saw the daughter of Nicconi finish strongly for third in the Rock Magic Stakes over 1000 metres. She is rated a $15 chance in the race with Amelia’s Jewel the clear $3.50 favourite, having been selected to run for Tabtouch.
Miller said that Petula is an exciting filly with plenty of upside,
“Her turn of foot is exceptional. Her closing sprint in the Rock Magic Stakes, flashing home for third, highlighted how quickly she gets home,” he said.
“Additionally, her wins in the WA Breeders’ Classic at Bunbury and the Pearl Classic at Pinjarra in February showed how strong she hits the line. She will be one to watch in the race.
Miller said he was excited to be heavily involved in The Quokka.
“This event isn't just a race, it continues to build and is a game changer for the racing industry, it’s great to be partnering with Sky Racing. I’m confident Petula will run a big race,” he said.
“This event isn't just a race, it continues to build and is a game changer for the racing industry." - Simon Miller
Tabcorp chief operating officer, Paul Carew, said the selection of Petula was a significant step in Sky Racing’s involvement with the Western Australia feature.
“We’re thrilled to have secured Petula for our Quokka slot. She steamed home in her last run, and we think the extra 200m will really suit her in the Quokka next Saturday,” Carew said.
“We have had the pleasure of working with trainer Simon Miller, who has been outstanding to work with in selecting this exciting filly.:
“At Sky Racing, we have the benefit of using insights of Australia’s leading form analysts, and we love promoting local horses. Petula’s potential is truly untapped and we can’t wait to see her take on this competitive field.”
The Quokka launched last year with plenty of fanfare, with the Bjorn Baker-trained sprinter victorious for slotholder RAM Racing. That outfit has teamed up again for 2024.
Other horses already locked in with a slot including King Of Sparta (Seacorp / Hallowell), Oscar’s Fortune (Loloma Farms), Ripcord (Peters Investments), Super Smink (Ladbrokes), Triple Missile (Rapid Equine Breeding), Almighty Class (The Chief Racing Syndicate) and Waitak (Trackside NZ / Perth Racing).
