Big respect for rival in a Delight-ful Oaks

She’s got a wonderful filly herself, but Debbie Quinlan can’t help but adore the main harness racing rival to Sahara Breeze’s (Captaintreacherous) chances in tonight’s (Oct. 14) Pryde’s EasiFeed ­Victoria Oaks.

The Drouin West horsewoman, who trains in partnership with husband Gary, predicts greatness for the Emma Stewart-prepared Major Delight, who will run favourite in the Group 1 classic despite her gate 10 draw.

She spearheads a five-pronged Stewart attack on the race, with stablemates Joyful, Sweet Bella, Perfect In Pink and Elysian Jay also in the field of 12.

“We don’t think there’s much between a lot of the others in the race,” Quinlan, 64, said.

“There’s only barrier draws between every other horse bar Major Delight.

“She’s a horse like a Tailamade Lombo and Blossom Lady. Maybe the draws have evened it up a bit, but she’s got that bit of brilliance about her.”

Despite all the respect shown by Quinlan to Major Delight, her filly remains well-fancied to land a second Group 1 success for champion ­reinsman Chris Alford.

Alford will be at the controls from barrier one, with Sahara Breeze a $3.30 chance following her runner-up placing to First Dance in last weekend’s first Oaks heat.

For complete race entries, click here.

by Tim O’Connor, for Harness Racing Victoria