Queanbeyan Queen in control

Karuta Queen accentuated the difference between Black Caviar and the rest of the sprint division in the G3 Australia Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley on Saturday.

The Queanbeyan filly was beaten hands down by Black Caviar in the G2 Schillaci Stakes at Caulfield on October 8 but the world champion was otherwise engaged on Cox Plate day.

Karuta Queen (3f Not A Single Doubt – Card Queen by Final Card) was in control from the outset to win by next to three lengths from Miss Stellabelle (Dehere) and Amah Rock (Fastnet Rock).

“It was hard to believe how easily Black Caviar went past us last time,” winning jockey Tommy Berry said.  “But Karuta Queen showed she’s still pretty good today.”

Karuta Queen is a flagbearer for Arrowfield stallion Not A Single Doubt and has earned over $1.72 million for owner Glenn Williams.  He purchased her for $30,000 at the 2010 Gold Coast Magic Millions.

Not A Single Doubt (Redoute’s Choice) has sired 103 winners of 244 races at a 59% strike-rate.  He started stud life at a $13,750 (inc gst) service fee but it was increased to $24,750 (inc gst) this year.

Karuta Queen is from his third crop.  His first two were headed by G3 winners Doubtful Jack and Squamosa.

Karuta Queen’s dam Card Queen is now based at Durham Lodge in WA.  She has a Blackfriars filly catalogued for the 2012 Perth Magic Millions.