Shenandoah chasing Group One dream in Oaks

The connections of Shenandoah will continue their quest for black-type with the filly in the mix for the Queensland Oaks at Eagle Farm.

Trent Busuttin, who trains in partnership with Natalie Young, says Shenandoah deserves a shot at the Group One classic on Saturday following her last start.

After racing wide throughout, Shenandoah finished fourth to Kenedna in The Roses (2000m) at Doomben on May 20.

“She raced out of her skin being three-deep without cover the whole way,” Busuttin said.

“She was just nutted on the line for third and was beaten just less than two lengths from a couple of handy fillies after a tough run.

“She came through the run fantastic so we’ll press on to the Oaks.”

Although Shenandoah is stepping up to 2400m for the first time on Saturday, Busuttin doesn’t think the trip will pose a problem after her latest performance.

And the prospects of a wet track also won’t be a concern for the filly.

“I’m not going to say she’ll win the race but she deserves her chance to be in there,” Busuttin said.

After beginning her career in New Zealand, Shenandoah has raced seven times in Australia with her sole win in a maiden at her home base at Cranbourne.

Busuttin said a jockey was still to be confirmed for the filly.