Trainer Matt Smith is taking a patient approach with Millie De Lune, hopeful the talented mare can put a frustrating injury setback behind her when she resumes at Rosehill on Saturday.
The daughter of Puissance De Lune returns in the Congratulations Chris Waller Handicap (1400m), her first start since suffering a tendon injury that interrupted what had promised to be an exciting staying career.
Millie De Lune showcased her potential with a middle-distance victory at Randwick in June 2025 before earning a start in the Winx Guineas, where she finished midfield.
While Smith isn’t expecting her to be winning first-up, he believes the mare has the ability to make her mark once she gets over longer distances later in the preparation.
“It’s just a starting point,” Smith said.
“She had a tendon injury. It was very minor, but it took ages to heal. Everything has been good so far, so touch wood.
“She is a really nice mare and when she gets up over a trip to 2000, 2400 (metres), she will be good.”
Jay Ford has been booked to ride Millie De Lune, who is one of up to five Rosehill runners for the stable.
Smith will also saddle Anythink Goes in the Congratulations Siena Grima Handicap (2000m), while Astero and World Alliance contest the NSW Jockeys Association Handicap (1300m).
Winston Hills is currently an emergency and requires one more scratching to gain a start.
Smith’s confidence around Astero has been tempered by a wide barrier draw and the prospect of a drying track, despite being pleased with the veteran’s recent work.
He is more optimistic about World Alliance, who has had little luck this campaign but is capable of producing a strong finish if the race is run to suit.
The gelding was unlucky in the Ramornie Handicap at Grafton and had previously produced two encouraging Sydney performances, including a third behind Istolea Merc at Canterbury.
“He’s one of those horses that’s always going to be a bit unlucky because he gets back and runs on,” Smith said.
“He has been unlucky a couple of runs this prep. He probably should have won at Canterbury.
“But if the speed is there, he can be finishing over the top of them.”
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