Duchess Maria on her way to Oaks

Duchess Maria powered to a three-and-three-quarter-length victory over Gasherbrum, setting up a run at the $120,000 Group One Trotting Oaks at Addington. Trainer and driver Nathan Williamson opted to race her locally rather than contest the Hambletonian to help her relax ahead of the upcoming 2,600-meter mobile feature. Williamson praised her execution in difficult weather and confirmed she is targeted for the major fillies event.

Following the Oaks, Duchess Maria is scheduled to compete against males in the $200,000 Group One Trotting Derby two weeks later. Williamson identified rival filly Our Col as the primary competitor to beat in the Oaks, alongside contenders Imperious Girl and Becky's Girl. In other stable news, fellow filly Diva Bee was unexpectedly retired after suffering a knee injury during the week.