Autumn campaign begins with barrier trial for Winx
PUNTERS have been eagerly awaiting the return of champion mare Winx after another successful Cox Plate campaign in the spring.
The wait will be over on Tuesday when Winx steps out in a trial at Rosehill, but Waller isn’t feeling the pressure has felt in previous seasons.
“There was the pressure of proving herself last year,” Waller said. “She has now won that second Cox Plate, she won with a big weight in a handicap in the Doncaster and done it for an extended period.
“Horses can hit a purple patch of form for six or 12 months and drop off but she has proven herself beyond that and is very special.
“I think we can enjoy her now. Our aim is to plan her runs so there will be longevity and everyone can enjoy her for a few more years yet.”
Winx has never won a barrier trial as Waller doesn’t want to push the mare. Hugh Bowman will be in the saddle on Tuesday in the first heat of the day which includes the Bjorn Baker-trained Music Magnate and Godolphin’s Ghisoni.
Waller is confident with the five-year-old’s body language ahead of a likely four-race campaign, which kicks off with the Apollo Stakes on February 11.
“Her body language is good but it is her first pre-season game in a sense, so we want her to just go around without being put under too much pressure,” Waller said.
“There is not the doubt of injury this time, so we can feel a little more confident.”
Waller has a big team of horses engaged at Rosehill on Tuesday which includes imports Endless Drama and Arod.
“We have a good group of horses and we are hoping for a few of them to come through and take the next step,” Waller said. “It is not just about one horse, although she gets a lot of attention.”
Waller plans to keep From Within ticking along after the two-year-old failed to impress in the Magic Millions 2YO Classic on Saturday.
“She is better than that,” Waller said. “She will have a quiet time for the next couple of weeks and we will look to bring her back for the Reisling Stakes [in March].”