Patrick and Michelle Payne are no strangers to the growing curve horses encounter when transitioning from their three-year-old to four-year-old season, and Bold Soul is a prime case of that adjustment period.

The gelding was a standout in his classic year with five wins from nine runs, but has yet to post a win in seven starts this campaign. The Paynes are hopeful he can change that record when he contests the TAB We’re On (2520m) at Flemington on Saturday.

Bold Soul burst onto the scene with a maiden win at Donald in November 2023, quickly following up with a metro victory at Flemington before heading south to dominate the Launceston Guineas and Tasmanian Derby.

He then moved on to Adelaide, placing in the Port Adelaide Guineas and taking out the Group 3 Chairman’s Stakes (2000m), before finishing midfield in the Group 1 South Australian Derby to cap a solid three-year-old season.

Since turning four, Bold Soul’s results have dipped, with just one placing in seven starts—at Ballarat last December. Michelle Payne, however, feels the tide is turning after his recent run at Caulfield.

“I think sometimes when they go from those three-year-old years and then racing up against those older horses as four-year-olds, it can take a little bit of time to level out,” Payne said.

“But he’s getting stronger all the time.

“He’s been building up and his last run was really good. He was back for a long way, and he hit the line well and he’s getting to a distance that should suit him.

“He’s also going to like a bit of give in the ground.”

To enhance his condition, Bold Soul has been doing some light jumping as part of his training regimen at Plumpton.

“They always do a bit of jumping out there. They love it,” Payne said.

Punters looking to follow Bold Soul this weekend in the TAB We’re On can check out top betting sites for the best odds and bonus offers across Australian racing markets.