Four for Avondale

A bigger, older, stronger and more robust Soul Sista (pictured) will line up tomorrow for the first time this preparation when she contests the Rating 65 event over 1400m at Avondale on a suitable Good3 footing.

Breaking through for a well overdue victory at Waipa last campaign, a lengthy spell has changed her complexion and time may have been the answer all along.

“She returned to the stable from a spell looking bigger, stronger and mature – both mentally and physically,” co-trainer Chad Ormsby said.

“The ability has always been there, but on occasions it just hasn’t worked out on raceday. The owners have been patient and I’m hopeful that they will reap the rewards this season.”

Soul Sista will be ridden by Craig Grylls and has drawn barrier six. Her record at Avondale on face value looks disappointing (3-0-0), although two of those runs have had plenty of merit against strong opposition.

You Are Amazing produced a gallant effort at her last outing at Avondale, and looks well placed to demonstrate another competitive performance and will have the services of Michael Coleman in the saddle.

“Our rider lost his stick half-way down the straight last start. I’m not sure that it cost her the race, but it probably didn’t help her chances.”

“She’s always shown us she can gallop at home, although she has her quirks and has taken a little time to mature mentally. The extra 200m will certainly play in her favour and if she brings something anywhere near her A game she is a strong winning chance.”

Another filly that has shown good ability is Keep On Coming, who didn’t quite get all favours at her first outing at Matamata, but has trained on well since and looks set to run a bold race over 1400m.

“She’s a nice filly in the making,” Ormsby said.

“If Matthew (Cameron) can give her a nice run in transit, she’ll be coming hard over the closing stages.”

Keep On Coming has drawn barrier nine and races against her own age group with jockey Matthew Cameron to take on riding duties.

Fellow three-year-old The Heat Is On, a full brother to classy stayer The Fire Inside, will be making his first race day appearance over 1400m, and while the trip is likely to be a touch short, he has shown promising signs that a nice race win is in him later in the season.

The Heat Is On will be ridden by local jockey Craig Grylls who has partnered the gelding in trackwork on several occasions.

“He’s a grouse horse that you can follow with confidence over the Christmas and Autumn carnivals,” Ormsby said.

“He’s still learning the game and whatever he does tomorrow, there will be no doubt he’ll be taking plenty away from the outing.”