The Bjorn Baker-trained four-year-old mare will represent Magic Bloodstock in the inaugural edition of Perth’s richest race.
Shades Of Rose has won seven of 10 races with a career peak in the Group 2 Sheraco Stakes (1200m) at Rosehill last September.
A daughter of Rubick, Shades Of Rose has not raced since finishing eighth in The Everest five months ago, three lengths adrift of Giga Kick.
Shades Of Rose will kick off her campaign at Rosehill on March 18, contesting the Group 1 The Galaxy (1100m).
Baker is excited to have Shades Of Rose contest The Quokka and believes there’s further improvement to come from the speedy mare.
“We feel this talented mare is yet to reach her mark,” Baker said in a press release.
“I’m very excited to head to The Quokka with Magic Bloodstock, she’s going as well as ever.
“I absolutely amped to have a runner in WA’s first ever slot race.”
Baker is no stranger to Perth, having had a runner in the west a decade ago.
He’s hoping Shades Of Rose can perform better than Cantonese who ran 11th to Talent Show in the 2013 Perth Cup.
“After having a crack at the Perth Cup some 10 years ago it’s about time I made it back to one of Australia’s great racing jurisdictions,” Baker said.
Shades Of Rose joined Amelia’s Jewel, Kissonallforcheeks and Bella Nipotina as the other runners confirmed for The Quokka.
