Freshness has proven the winning formula for Tajana, and trainer Shaune Ritchie believes it could again be the key as the exciting three-year-old filly prepares for her next major test in the Group 3 Sunline Vase (1400m) at Ellerslie this Saturday.
The daughter of Darci Brahma, bred and raced by The Oaks Stud, has thrived since returning to competition with a polished victory in the Group 3 Northland Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) at Ruakaka last month. That effort was enough to announce her as one of New Zealand’s rising stars, and she will now attempt to extend her strong form stepping up to 1400m.
Tajana has drawn barrier seven and is rated a live chance at $3.20, with Ritchie confident she can deliver again on the big stage.
“She was very good last time and has done fantastically well, I’m pleased we ran her at Ruakaka,” Ritchie said, reflecting on her comeback performance.
The trainer, who works in partnership with Colm Murray, noted that the timing of her campaign has been designed to bring out her best.
“The four weeks between runs will really suit her. I think she is a natural mile and a-quarter horse, that’s what she’s showing us at the moment,” he explained. “Keeping her fresh for these shorter distances is the right way to go and I am expecting her to go really super on Saturday. She is a high-quality filly, no doubt, and she has really come on with the trip up there (Ruakaka) and the time to get over the race to really bring her summer coat through.”
A Filly with Proven Class
From only five career starts, Tajana has already displayed plenty of promise. She broke her maiden last season and quickly established herself at the elite level, finishing runner-up in the Group 1 Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) and placing in the Group 3 Colin Jillings 2YO Classic (1200m). Her ability to compete against the best of her generation has marked her as one of the leading fillies to follow this spring.
The Sunline Vase is another stepping stone on the path toward her main target, the Group 1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton in November. Ritchie confirmed that the team has carefully mapped out her program to ensure she peaks at the right time.
“The program we have going forward, which Rick Williams (The Oaks General Manager) and I have discussed, is a good one,” Ritchie said. “She will go to the Soliloquy Stakes (Group 2, 1400m) before we head down to Riccarton.”
Managing Distances and Expectations
While Ritchie is buoyed by Tajana’s condition, he acknowledges that the 1400m trip at Ellerslie poses a small query.
“She is a laid-back filly and lovely to train, she almost trains herself and the only real concern is the 1400m on Saturday far enough, but I don’t think we could have tackled it any other way,” he said.
Her temperament has also been a significant factor in her development. Described by Ritchie as relaxed and uncomplicated, Tajana has adapted quickly to the demands of racing at the top level. That professional attitude has given her connections confidence that she can handle the challenges of a long campaign while continuing to progress.
A Change in the Saddle
At Ruakaka, Tajana was ridden to victory by talented hoop Wiremu Pinn. However, this weekend at Ellerslie she will have a new jockey in the saddle, with George Rooke taking over. Ritchie explained the decision was part of the stable’s plan.
“He was promised the ride before he got hurt and he’ll ride her through the season,” Ritchie said.
The continuity of a stable rider is expected to be an asset as Tajana builds toward her spring and summer assignments.
The Road Ahead
The Sunline Vase will be the sternest test yet for Tajana this season, but her connections are optimistic she has the ability to step up. A win would not only add further black-type success to her record but also cement her position as a leading contender for the prestigious New Zealand 1000 Guineas.
Ritchie and Murray remain confident that her preparation has been perfectly executed. Her proven turn of foot, adaptable racing style, and natural talent make her a dangerous proposition in any race she contests.
For The Oaks Stud, which has produced many high-class gallopers, Tajana’s continued rise adds another chapter to their legacy. A victory at Ellerslie on Saturday would not only enhance her own credentials but also bolster the reputation of her sire, Darci Brahma, one of New Zealand’s most respected stallions.
As the build-up continues, Tajana’s presence in the Sunline Vase ensures racing fans will have plenty to look forward to. With her freshness maintained, her preparation spot on, and her trainer brimming with confidence, the stage is set for another strong performance from the exciting filly.
If she handles the step up in trip and delivers as expected, Tajana could well confirm herself as one of the standout fillies of her generation, heading into the Guineas with momentum and belief on her side.