Miss Ballantine an early 2YO for Waller

The systems Chris Waller has in place have taken him to the top of Australian racing.

But his methods don’t include rushing two-year-olds into the Magic Millions or Golden Slipper arenas.

Miss Ballantine, who races at Randwick on Saturday, is one of a few youngsters from the stable to step out so far this season.

The filly has been placed in two barrier trials, both on rain-affected ground which she will encounter in the 2YO Plate (1100m) at Randwick.

“We are about a month away from firing up with our two-year-olds,” Waller said.

“This filly trialled nicely and is up and running a bit sooner than some of the others.

“She has drawn well and has a good jockey in Tim Clark.

“He is riding well and I would like to use him a lot more.

“But the filly is under no pressure. It’s her first race and we’ll just see how she goes.”

Although Waller is not noted for his early two-year-old runners, he does have two Group One winners on his record.

Brothers Pressday (2009) and Press Statement (2015) both won the JJ Atkins (1600m) in Brisbane in June, the final of five Group One races for two-year-olds during the season.

While the predicted wet track won’t suit all the stable’s horses, Waller is encouraged by Cruise Power’s debut win on a heavy Warwick Farm track earlier this month.

The three-year-old runs in the Top Ideal SCM Handicap (1200m) with apprentice Andrew Adkins to ride.

“I certainly don’t think he is going to be just a wet tracker but at least after his first start we know he handles it,” Waller said.

“It’s a big step up and he’s not that well treated by the weight scale which is why we are claiming three kilograms with him.

“He doesn’t have the experience of some of those he is up against, but I still think he is an improving type.”

Adkins will also ride the Waller-trained Miss Royale, a last-start third behind Selita who has won her past three starts.

 

Article from JustHorseRacing.com.au

Stay up to date with the latest sports news
Follow our social accounts to get exclusive content and all the latest sporting news!