She hasn't seen the winner's enclosure since the 2022 Group 1 ATC Sires Produce, but Fireburn ($3.70) has finally chalked up her sixth career win, taking out the Group 2 The Roses in the Doomben finale.
The Gary Portelli-trained filly was becoming a frustrating galloper for punters, always seemingly ready to win, but just missing out on the major prize.
Punters didn't miss her today though, with plenty of support pre-race, leaving her a clear second favorite before start time.
Jockey Jason Collett had had a frustrating day in his own right, finding second placing on multiple occasions leading into the last at Doomben, producing a rail hugging ride to find clear galloping room for Fireburn to show her impressive best.
Renaissance Women ($3.10) still held the call when they left the gates and didn't shirk the task form the inside draw, managing to run into second position, while Sakura Girl ($6) and Proscenium Arch ($26) all look on song for the Queensland Oaks in two-weeks' time.
2023 Group 2 The Roses Replay – Fireburn
Trainer Gary Portelli was trackside to cheer home one of his stable favorites and could be on the dawn of history if Fireburn can produce a Golden Slipper and Oaks double, the likes of which we haven't seen since Miss Finland (2007).
“I've got to say that she's a special horse to us,” said Portelli.
“To win a Golden Slipper at two (years) and then to step up to 2000 metres, to run fourth in an Oaks and the Golden Slipper hoodoo has been knocked over.
“I said before the race that if she was to win today then there's no way they can beat her next start.
“She was underdone. She ran a lot of easy runs, easy sectionals early and he just rode her beautifully. It opened up at the right time and it looked like the Golden Slipper replay. Up the rails and let her go.
“As soon as he got the draw, I know what she's like. She set the sights on you. I just reckon that she's ready to go now.”
Jason Collett was stoked with the win post-race and even gave some insight into her chances in the Group 1 Queensland Oaks.
“That was fantastic today,” said Collett
“She was keen early. I dropped her right down to the fence. I wanted to get her into the best rhythm I could.
“Once she got down the back and she came back off, and a couple of lengths off the runner in front of me I thought ‘oh, this is what I want'.
“She worked up under me really well.
“I like the way she switched off mid-race. The distance in the Oaks shouldn't be an issue. Easy to say now but wait until Oaks Day.”