Patience is often a major key in racehorse training and Annabel Archibald is hoping Mortal Halo can continue his rise in form at the rich Magic Millions race day next month.
Wayward as a juvenile, the son of Better Than Ready notched his second win in the Vinnie @ Yarraman Park Handicap (1500m) on an unusual Sunday meeting at Rosehill.
“We’ve always had a big opinion of him but as a two-year-old he just didn’t know where to put his legs,” Archibald said.
“He is better now and it is good to see him put them away.”
Mortal Halo ($3.20F) had the challenge of reeling in the Chris Waller-trained four-year-old Automne Tree ($8) and scored by a ½-length margin The Mona Lisa ($14) a nose away in third.
“He looked almost a bit lost in front and I was happy when the other horse crossed in front and had something to chase down,” Archibald added.
Annabel and co-trainer Rob are hoping to start Mortal Halo in the $3 million Magic Millions 3yo Guineas (1400m) on January 17 but conceded that the colt may need another run to get his rating high enough to make the field.
A brother to 2024 Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m) winner Port Lockroy, the stable has enjoyed good success with progeny of dam Freezethemillions with Mortal Halo and two more winners – Aeecee Beau and For Better – also having been prepared by them.
“He’s one of the nicest colts I’ve sat on in a long time,” jockey Reece Jones said.
“He’s so professional and a gentleman.”
Mortal Halo, who failed to reach the $260,000 reserve price at the Magic Million Yearling Sale in January 2024, is rated a $26 chance for the Gold Coast highlight for three-year-olds.
The Chris and Corey Munce-trained Group 1 JJ Atkins Stakes (1600m) winner Cool Archie the $3 favourite.
The Rosehill meeting was postponed to Sunday after the temperature reached 40 degrees in the area on Saturday.