A first-up tilt at the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap is on the table for Joliestar as connections look to capitalise on her outstanding fresh record.
The Chris Waller-trained mare indicated she had returned to work in top order with an impressive barrier trial win at Rosehill on Thursday, stretching out nicely over the final stages to win her 900m heat by a short neck over Panic with the winner’s stablemate Lindermann another half-length away third.
The four-year-old has won three of her four first-up runs and Waller’s assistant trainer, Charlie Duckworth , says they have been mindful of that statistic when plotting the best path for her this autumn.
“We obviously know she goes so well first-up so we are focused on that and taking advantage of her first-up record,” Duckworth said.
“She has come back really well. We are focusing on getting her to switch off and relax.”
Duckworth confirmed the Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington on March 8 is among the options being considered for Joliestar’s return.
“She could potentially go that way, but she would have to trial and go to a jump out up the straight if she is to go that way,” he said.
Godolphin colt Traffic Warden was among the other high-profile horses to step out at Thursday’s session.
The Golden Rose runner-up travelled on the bridle throughout, trailing the speed and brushing home under Zac Lloyd for an encouraging third to Shezanalister in his 900m heat.
