Lane’s superstar ready for Memsie

Champion jockey Damian Lane will take his first Melbourne Group 1 ride of the season when he partners unbeaten mare Treasurethe Moment in Saturday’s $750,000 Memsie Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield.

The four-year-old has compiled an extraordinary record, winning her past eight starts, including last season’s VRC and ATC Oaks. Now, she steps out against older horses at weight-for-age level for the first time.

Speaking to SENTrack’s Giddy Up, Lane said he is excited by her progress. “My spring is looking positive, and I’d say Treasurethe Moment is the flag bearer,” he said. “She seems to be going well, and she’s gonna get her chance.”

While acknowledging the step up in class, the 39-time Group 1-winning jockey expressed confidence in her ability. “She’s gonna be a great chance. You’re not really sure coming out of three-year-old company into open age, but she’s fresh, sharp, and in good order.”

Lane admitted even he was surprised by how well the mare has returned after her Oaks double. “A filly coming off a two-Oaks preparation, you’d forgive her for being a little dour, but she’s actually sharpened up. Her trials have been great.”

The star rider believes the 1400m first-up assignment will not pose an issue. “I think the distance is gonna be no problem with how sharp she’s been. She gets her chance to compete well, and I’m really looking forward to seeing where she fits in.”