The path to the Magic Millions Classic at the Gold Coast is the probable next step for Exo Velocity, a Chris Waller-trained filly, following her striking debut win in the Kirkham Plate at Randwick.
Having had only a single barrier trial leading into the event, the Zoustar filly showcased both grit and class, finding a tight inside run to surge to the front and win by a length from stablemate Tour De Force ($7).
Winning jockey Kerrin McEvoy expertly guided Exo Velocity ($13) through a narrow gap at the 200-metre mark, passing the leader Heli Jinglong. McEvoy commented on the filly’s commendable bravery in taking such a tight split on her first race appearance.
“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.”
Exo Velocity, who fetched $650,000 as a Magic Millions yearling, has the January carnival as a key target, according to Waller’s assistant trainer, Darren Beadman, who was impressed by her Kirkham Plate (1000m) performance.
“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 purchase from the Inglis Easter sale, also put in a strong debut performance according to Beadman, despite being held up for a run entering 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.”
The $2.10 favourite, Royal Accord, struggled and finished seventh.
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