Devil Hawk, a full brother to Queensland Derby Winner Hawkspur, has emerged as a Group One prospect with an impressive maiden victory at Canterbury.
Sent out at $10, the Chris Waller-trained colt overcame short-priced favourite and stablemate Metallic Crown ($1.28), and the John Sargent-trained Trick Star ($9) in the 1250m Schweppes Plate on Wednesday.
Waller said Devil Hawk’s pedigree indicates he should have staying ability and that the Spring Champion Stakes is a likely target.
“This horse is stronger (than Hawkspur) at the same age,” Waller said.
“Hawkspur took about ten races to win his maiden.
“It’s hard to compare, but he’s got the ability.”
Waller will now aim the colt at a Saturday grade 1400m race before setting his sights on the October Group One.
He said race form would guide whether a decision was made to geld Devil Hawk, who played up at the gates.
“The trickiest thing with this horse is that he’s still a colt,” Waller said.
“He’s a boy. He knows all about his teenage years that’s for sure.”
Serene Majesty is another on her way to bigger and better things after her win in the tab.com.au Plate (1250m) for fillies.
The $2.15 favourite accounted for Way Too Good ($6.50) by 5-1/4 lengths.
Co-trainer Peter Snowden said he was pleased to see how well she relaxed and she would step up in distance next start.
Serene Majesty is a $21 chance for the Thousand Guineas in October at Caulfield.
