Purcell’s prize catch is primed for Oaks

THE horse that Aaron Purcell was most looking forward to training when he took over Ciaron Maher’s stable has lived up to all his expectations and is primed for her main target in the VRC Oaks.

Aloisia is the $1.60 favourite for today’s $1 million VRC Oaks at Flemington, having already won the Group 1 Thousand Guineas and Group 2 Vase.

The Guineas was Aloisia’s first start for Purcell, who stepped in to take over Maher’s stable when he was suspended for six months in late September.

Purcell added another Group 1 win with quality colt Merchant Navy in Saturday’s Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) at Flemington.

While Maher’s team had a host of classy horses in the stable, Purcell rated Aloisia top of the list when he took over.

“I’ve known about quite a few of Ciaron’s horses and obviously the colts are high-class colts with big ambitions,” he said.

“Merchant Navy did a great job on Saturday and Jukebox has got a good win in him.

“But I’ve always liked to consider myself a trainer that can train a stayer and obviously the Classics are the best three-year-old races you can win.

“She got a Guineas under the belt and hopefully we can get an Oaks.

“Everything she has done since I’ve been at Caulfield has just been professional, highclass. And there’s no reason why she won’t run up to her best. I’m sure she will be peaking for Thursday,” Purcell said.

He does not believe the 2500m will be a problem.

“In the long run I’m not sure she’s going to be an outand-out stayer. I think she might be a better 2000m horse.

“Through her attitude, her preparation and pedigree, everything suggests she’s going to run a strong 2500.”

Pinot is second favourite at $6 and Purcell rates her the hardest to beat of Aloisia’s 11 rivals.

But despite an “awkward” draw, barrier 9, the trainer retains his confidence in Aloisia.

“It’s not going to be easy,” Purcell said. “But definitely on form she looks like she’s the one.”