Bjorn Baker will have a clearer indication on Ballistica’s potential to be his first Golden Slipper runner since 2014 when she makes her debut in the Inglis Classic at Warwick Farm.
A $40,000 yearling by Triple Crown Syndications, the filly will have to replicate her trial form when it matters most at her home track on Saturday.
Baker has not been represented in the world’s richest race for two-year-olds since Unencumbered ran 10th four years ago but was not willing to talk Ballistica up as a prospect for next month’s $3.5 million Golden Slipper.
“It’s one step at a time. It’s just exciting to have a runner in a big race for Triple Crown,” Baker said.
Ballistica won both her barrier trials last month ahead of the $250,000 Inglis Classic (1200m).
“She’s trialled really well. She’s a nice filly. She’s got a bit of substance, class and size but she’ll have to do everything right,” Baker said.
“She’s in good order and she’s drawn to get a soft run.”
Ballistica, the $4.40 second elect with the TAB on Thursday behind Sanctimonious ($3), has barrier three and will be ridden by Jason Collett, providing he has recovered from a fall at Randwick on Wednesday.
Collett had the reins for Ballistica’s most recent trial at Gosford and had a plan in place for her first race day.
“We won’t overdo it early. I’ll hold her together and look for a split late because she’s got a nice turn of foot,” he said.
Baker also saddles up $26 chance Ta Chanson who ran fifth at Wyong over 1100m on January 21.
