After 16 long months off the track, Oakleigh Plate champion Quemán is set to make his highly anticipated return this Saturday in the Group 3 Behemoth Stakes at Morphettville. The seasoned sprinter, trained by the talented Shane Oxlade, hasn’t competed since the Group 3 Irwin Stakes on April 13 last year, following an injury that temporarily paused his flourishing career.
Quemán’s return has been long awaited by fans and the racing community alike. Known for his electric speed and fearless finishes, Quemán first captured national attention when he stormed to victory in the Oakleigh Plate, earning him a reputation as one of Australia’s elite short-distance runners. Since then, a series of physical setbacks had kept him on the sidelines — but now, all eyes are on his comeback.
Trainer Shane Oxlade has shown remarkable patience and commitment during the recovery process. Speaking about the return, he mentioned that Quemán is ready, and his preparations have been carefully tailored to get him race-fit without rushing his recovery. Morphettville’s 1200-meter Behemoth Stakes is the perfect platform for Quemán to reassert his dominance and reintroduce himself to the racing scene.
The stakes are high — not just in prize money, but in legacy. A strong performance could pave the way for entry into bigger Group 1 races later in the spring season. Despite the long layoff, confidence in Quemán’s ability hasn’t waned. Bettors and tipsters are placing solid faith in his return, with early market support suggesting he’s still regarded as a top-tier threat.
This Saturday, the gates will open, and Quemán will thunder down the turf once again — not just racing for victory, but for redemption, revival, and the thrill that only a comeback king can deliver. Whether he wins or not, his return is already a victory in itself.
