Chris Waller-trained horses have been firing first-up this season. Photo: Steve Hart
At Canterbury on Wednesday three-year-old filly Gretna provided Waller with his fifth first-up victor since the turn of the season two and a half weeks ago. And four of those were able to succeed on rain-affected ground.
Gretna ($2.80 fav) had trialled twice leading into the Casino Prince @ Vinery Handicap (1200m) and proved much too good for her opposition after being afforded an ideal run in transit under Sydney’s jockey of the moment Brenton Avdulla.
“She’s obviously got a bit of talent there,” Avdulla said.
“She glided to the front and had her ears pricked, it was a pretty soft win.”
Waller said he was impressed with the daughter of Snitzel’s ability to accelerate first-up with 60.5kg.
“It took a little while for her to get clear but it was good to see her really sprint with that big weight and I think the second and third horses are pretty handy too,” Waller said.
“She’s a lovely filly that I can see progressing through to stakes races.”
Finishing three-quarters of a length back in second was California Nike ($3.80) for Peter and Paul Snowden while Gerald Ryan’s Pipeline ($4.80) was another head away in third.
Gretna is just one of many new season three-year-olds that Waller continues to roll out at an astonishing rate – in the last week he has saddled up 13 three-year-olds, of which four have won.
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