Autumn Glow ($2.00) has justified the short price with horse racing bookmakers in the Group 3 Up And Coming Stakes (1300m) at Rosehill on Saturday, careering away with the prize to remain undefeated in her two starts.
The Chris Waller-trained filly was given a perfect ride by Kerrin McEvoy, slotting into the ideal midfield position with cover throughout the 1300m, utilising the light weight to stalk a genuine tempo every step of the way.
Axius ($7.50) and Wanaruah ($5.50) were sent forward to fight out the early lead, leaving McEvoy with no choice but to hand up, as she did on debut, biding her time in behind before exploding in the final 400m.
She was only building the revs up in the final furlong, but it was all over, with only the James Cummings-trained Snack Bar ($10.00) making any impression from the back-half of the field.
2024 Group 3 Up And Coming Stakes Replay – Autumn Glow
The daughter of the Autumn Sun appears ready to tackle tougher company next time out, with Waller confirming those decision will be made by the ownership as to whether she heads towards the Group 1 Golden Rose (1400m).
“She is a very very serious horse,” said Waller.
“It was only her second race start. A lovely ride from Kerrin. It is pretty tricky out there today, it is so windy and blustery, catching a few younger horses off guard. He parked her in a beautiful spot and had some cover.
“Today was a bigger level to what she won her debut on. She had to make the necessary step. I loved the way Kerrin just coaxed to her. I think he was just cuddling her a little bit.
“It would be up to Mr Messara and Hermitage to make that decision not me (heading to the Golden Rose). It was only second start today and taking on the likes of Storm Boy and the big guns at Group 1 level this early is probably a little bit premature. If we can keep her against her own age and sex, it just helps her a little bit.”
Kerrin McEvoy was impressed with the win and suggested the untapped three-year-old still has plenty of upside.
“I think she is pretty good,” said McEvoy.
“She has gone a long way in her couple of starts and she just gives you that good horse feel.”
“She had the right scenario today with a light weight on her back but at her second start to give me that sort of feel I’d say she’s got a very high ceiling.
“I think there is still a bit of growing. Her wither will come up a bit once she fully furnishes.”
Autumn Glow is now on the third line of betting at $9.00 for the Group 1 Golden Rose (1400m) on September 28.
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