It was a thrilled Males family at Tabcorp Park Melton tonight after long-time owners Peter and Yvonne Males savored their first Group 1 success, having been given the Royal treatment by son and trainer Paul.
Zac Phillips expertly guided Royal Charlotte to victory in the TAB Multiplier Victoria Trotters Oaks, a terrific trophy to complement the New South Wales Trotters Oaks the team snaffled in May with the three-year-old Majestic Son filly.
“It is (special), mum and dad have had horses a long time,” Paul Males said. “They had never won a Group 1 race, it’s good that it’s happened now.”
They were sentiments echoed by Zac Phillips, a long-time driver for the Paul and Kari Males stable and family friend.
“Pete and Yvonne have been great supporters of my career ever since I started when I was 16,” Phillips said. “To reward them with a good race win, that is something that means a hell of a lot to me, especially Paul and Kari, I’ve grown up knowing them since I was a young kid and to win a race like this for them is something I’ll never forget.
“Pete and Yvonne have been in the game a hell of a long time, gone through a lot of horses, won some nice races, but this will be the best race they’ve won. For me to be a part of it is very special.”
From gate one Phillips took the back of Yabby Dam Farms runner Imsettogo in the early stages and then was placed three back on the pegs as Sleepee took over the lead for reinsman Chris Alford, who was chasing a 100th Group 1 win.
A 32.9-second second quarter was certainly to the leader’s favour but the raw pace of winner Royal Charlotte saw her claw past Imsettogo by a neck, with Sleepee protecting her record of nine starts for nine placings in running third.
“She’s maturing really well now,” said Paul Males of the winner. “She’s got some speed. She’s really quick.”
