Jockey Ryan Maloney has a lot of faith in unbeaten Lina’s Hero after the gelding remained unbeaten at Sandown.
A debut winner at Sale on August 17, Lina’s Hero added the M & D Dillon Constructions Handicap (1300m) to his record on Wednesday.
Whereas Lina’s Hero was a $10 chance for his debut, the gelding didn’t get under punters’ guards on Wednesday when sent out the $2.10 favourite before scoring by 3-1/4 lengths.
“He’s definitely got black type ability,” Maloney said.
“If his mental capacity holds up I’d say the perfect race would be the Caulfield Guineas if he’s headed in that direction.”
Maloney said Lina’s Hero was a bit like his dam Cloanthy, who also had a few quirks, but was a galloper of untapped potential.
“I thought I was going to have to get to the bottom of him coming down the hill but as soon as I put one around his tail he found another gear,” Maloney said.
“It was a better race than at Sale but the way he did it today, I couldn’t be happier with him.”
Trainer Tony Vasil, who also trained the gelding’s sire Elvstroem, said he had been patient with Lina’s Hero.
“He’s an Elvstroem and that’s what everyone should be with them, patient,” Vasil said.
“He could have gone to the races early but he’s immature mentally so we’ll just take our time.
“There’s no rush, no pressure.”
