Trainer Annabel Archibald believes patience is finally paying off with Mortal Halo, who continued his steady rise with victory at Rosehill ahead of a planned Magic Millions tilt next month.

Once an unruly two-year-old, the Better Than Ready colt collected his second win in the Vinnie @ Yarraman Park Handicap (1500m) during Sunday’s rescheduled meeting.

“We’ve always had a big opinion of him but as a two-year-old he just didn’t know where to put his legs,” Archibald said.

“He is better now and it is good to see him put them away.”

Mortal Halo ($3.20F) overcame the challenge of Automne Tree ($8), claiming the win by half a length, with The Mona Lisa ($14) narrowly in third.

“He looked almost a bit lost in front and I was happy when the other horse crossed in front and had something to chase down,” Archibald said.

The stable hopes to launch the colt into the $3 million Magic Millions 3yo Guineas (1400m) at the Gold Coast, though a rating boost may necessitate another run.

Mortal Halo is a full brother to 2024 Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m) winner Port Lockroy and is the latest talent from dam Freezethemillions, whose progeny Aeecee Beau and For Better have also been trained by the Archibalds.

“He’s one of the nicest colts I’ve sat on in a long time,” jockey Reece Jones said.

“He’s so professional and a gentleman.”

After failing to make his $260,000 reserve at the 2024 Magic Millions Sale, Mortal Halo has firmed to $26 for the Guineas, with JJ Atkins victor Cool Archie leading betting at $3.

Sunday’s meeting was held a day late due to extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees on Saturday.

Punters can compare markets for the Magic Millions Guineas at Australia’s best betting sites.