Almanzor filly boosts Oaks hopes

Highly regarded three-year-old Ahuriri has added winning momentum toward a potential Classic target.The Chris Waller-trained daughter of Almanzor is considered a black-type filly in waiting and a step up in distance at Newcastle last time out has further boosted confidence in her future prospects.Ahuriri had placed in two of her four starts before she moved out in trip to 1900 metres and she responded impressively with a runaway victory in the hands of Lee Magorrian.She holds a nomination for the G1 Australian Oaks and has a pedigree to strongly suggest she can add to the family roll of honour at stakes level.Bred by Blandford Lodge principals Graham and Helen-Gaye Bax, Ahuriri was purchased for $210,000 at New Zealand Bloodstock’s National Yearling Sale with Waller and Bax Ltd signing the ticket.She is the first winner for the Darci Brahma mare Mackenzie Kate, who is a half-sister to the three-time Group 1 winner Lucia Valentina and the G3 Manawatu Classic winner Malandrino who was also successful in Hong Kong as Best Show.Another heavyweight performer on the pedigree page is Danzdanzdance, who was successful at the elite level in the Zabeel Classic and the Captain Cook Stakes.