[PHOTO: Western Racepix]
Maschino four-year-old Vampi Queen continued her encouraging progression with another impressive last-to-first victory at Belmont Park on Wednesday.
Backed from $4 into $2.40 favouritism prior to the running of the AFGRI Equipment Handicap (1400m) off the back of a stylish maiden win a fortnight earlier, the mare faced a rise in grade but passed with flying colours.
She was unable to use her better draw in barrier six and again found herself at the tail of the field before rider Clint Johnston-Porter tracked into the race in the moving line and pulled her to the extreme outside on straightening.
Despite spotting the leaders a considerable margin, the bay rocketed home to reel in her rivals in a matter of strides and score by more than two lengths on the line.
Ocean Goddess ($7) ran second, with Azabelle ($8) a further neck away in third place.
Bred and part-owned by Oakland Park Stud, the slow-maturing Vampi Queen has displayed a dazzling turn of foot this preparation and appears to have Saturday-level ability.
Meanwhile, Pearce Racing will saddle up Chief Commander at Bunbury on Thursday before Saturday’s Belmont meeting where Platinum Shot, Rally The Troops, Famous Dain and Under Influence are engaged.
Ginger Baker and Outspoken Lad will represent the stable in Sunday’s $125,000 Boulder Cup (2100m) at Kalgoorlie.