Soho Americano winning the 2025 Queensland Oaks
IT was just the boost Mick Stanley needed for the next chapter of his career.
The successful horseman still has his Victorian property, but has made the move to train a team of “about 18” from the on-course Menangle training complex.
And Soho Americano’s win in last night’s $150,000 Group 1 Queensland Oaks was his first “major” since making the move.
Emotions ran deep, too.
The win came just minutes after Stanley’s daughter, Annabelle, won the pony trot final.
And winning a “major” Oaks is something Stanley was beginning to wonder may never happen.
“You know I’d run second in big Oaks’ finals eight times before this,” he said. “On the home turn, I thought ‘oh no, I’m going to get another second’, but she lifted and grabbed the leader.
“We had a plan. We knew we had the fastest filly, but we just needed the run and that’s what Luke gave her.
“She’s a lovely filly, this one and she really deserved that.
“It’s extra special to win it for Rob Watson, who has been my biggest supporter. It’s great to get another Group 1 for him.”
The win continued McCarthy’s stunning dominance in the Queensland Oaks. He’s driven seven of the past 15 winners.
Stanley said lifestyle and strong opportunities at Menangle prompted his move.
“I’ve been up there (NSW) a while now and barely raced a horse anywhere but Menangle,” he said.
“I’m running eighth on the metro premiership and haven’t really hit my straps yet.
“To basically just race where you train is a game changer for work and life balance. I love it.
“I’ve got 18 in work at the moment, but there’s some more boxes coming available and I’ll probably take them, too.”
Soho Americano dashed through on the sprint lane to snatch a head win over Cool And Classy to turn the tables on the NSW Oaks from May.
Boom Kiwi filly Captains Mistress had to sit parked on a night where the pegs were worth plenty and fought on well for third.
The eye-catcher was Victorian filly Manhattan Chick, who was buried back on the inside and rocketed home when clear far too late for a terrific fourth.
PHOTO: Dan Costello
