The Haras Des Trotteurs Victoria Trotters Derby is open to all squaregaiting three-year-olds but often considered the domain of the colts and geldings, the pendulum has swung in recent years.
In fact, two of the last three editions of the race have been won by the fairer sex with Kiwi filly Wilmas Mate scoring in 2016 and the Yabby Dam Farm prepared Une Belle Allure tasting victory the very next year.
Four of the 12 combatants at Maryborough this weekend are fillies and one who has been in a rich vein of form this time in is the Paul Males-trained Royal Charlotte.
A winner of the New South Wales and Victoria Trotters Oaks, both at Group 1 level, she ran third in the Vicbred Super Series early last month.
“She went so good in Sydney over the 2400 metres (in the Oaks) that we thought we’d give her a go over the 2600 at Maryborough and see how she measures up.” Males said.
“If she can come out balanced and slot in somewhere without having to use any petrol then I think that will give her the chance to chime in late.
“She’s had a freshen up and worked really well so I’d rate her the same as what she was when she was heading into the (Vic) Oaks.”
It has become par for the course in recent years that this race is filled deep with talent and this year’s renewal will be no different.
New Zealand filly Liberty Stride produced arguably the most spectacular ever Derby trial when galloping early against older horses on Australian debut before somehow managing to not only reel them in but race away from there.
She’s currently the $2.25 TAB fixed odds favourite.
Majestuoso was heavily backed early firming from $10 into $5 in the first 24 hours of betting.
Kratos ($5.50) heads the rest however Kyvalley Clichy ($7) is also in single figures.
Royal Charlotte is considered a $34 chance with the bookmakers.
