The Chris Waller-trained Exo Velocity is now likely heading towards the Magic Millions Classic at the Gold Coast following a convincing debut victory in the Kirkham Plate at Randwick.
The Zoustar filly, who had only one barrier trial under her belt, displayed significant courage and talent, squeezing through a tight inside run to take the lead and win by a length over stablemate Tour De Force ($7).
Jockey Kerrin McEvoy, aboard Exo Velocity ($13), had to wait for the gap to appear before surging through near the 200-metre mark, passing the leader Heli Jinglong. McEvoy noted the filly’s bravery in exploiting such a narrow opening on her first start.
“The run was open, but I was still a few lengths off it,” McEvoy said. “I was as quiet as a church mouse, I didn’t let that horse know I was coming, so I was hoping it was going to stay open for me. She’s got talent, no doubt. You always take note when one of Chris’ come out and win like that first-up because you know they’re not screwed down to anywhere near their bottom.”
Darren Beadman, assistant trainer to Chris Waller, confirmed that the January carnival, and specifically the Magic Millions Classic, is the target for Exo Velocity, a $650,000 Magic Millions yearling purchase, following her impressive performance in the Kirkham Plate (1000m).
“Being a Magic Millions filly, Chris can back off her and get her ready for the Magic Millions,” Beadman said. “It’s there to target for her. Lovely demeanour, both two-year-olds, and the colt, in four months’ time, he’s just going to be a really furnished type. They’ve both got great attitudes.”
Tour De Force, a $1.35 million Inglis Easter sale acquisition, also impressed Beadman with his debut run, despite facing some trouble finding a clear passage at the top of the straight.
“The colt, if he gets out at the right time, he probably runs a little bit closer, if not wins,” he said. “We couldn’t have asked for a better debut from both runners.”
Royal Accord, the $2.10 favourite, was unable to maintain its early pace and finished seventh.
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