A well-timed change in Verona Rose’s feeding routine has helped her stay on track for the ATC Australian Oaks, as she prepares to tackle the toughest test of her career.

Trainer Gary Portelli had classic aspirations for the Castelvecchio filly from the outset, and after an impressive debut victory at Kembla Grange in November, he opted to give her a break with the long-term goal in mind.

Her return to racing was ideal, kicking off her campaign with a first-up win at Wyong. However, Portelli noticed her condition wasn’t quite where he wanted it to be.

“She was really tucked up and she looked like she was ready for the Oaks then,” Portelli said.

“I had to back off and change my feeding program. I got her more oats and fed the hell out of her and she bulked up really nicely.”

Adjusting her schedule slightly, Portelli sent Verona Rose into the Kembla Grange Classic (1600m) with a month between runs, and the filly delivered an eye-catching performance, charging home from a wide draw to keep her perfect record intact.

Now, she steps into elite company in the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m) at Rosehill, where she will test herself against some of the best fillies in the country, including VRC Oaks champion Treasurethe Moment.

“This is obviously a massive hurdle this time,” Portelli said.

“Not only is the favourite going to be hard to beat, there are some pretty nice horses there from (Chris) Waller’s camp and that horse of Glen Thompson’s (VOBIS Platinum Guineas winner Benagil).

“This is a good test for her. It’s the strongest race she has been in but when you’re winning you can’t hide from them, you’ve got to have a go.”

Kerrin McEvoy, who has guided Verona Rose to her last two wins, retains the ride and will break from barrier six.

Treasurethe Moment, trained by Matt Laurie, has been in imperious form, winning six straight races, including a dominant performance in the Kewney Stakes (1600m) at Flemington.