Last to first for Scentify at The Valley

Track conditions will not be any disadvantage as the career of Scentify advances after scoring a first-up win at Moonee Valley.

A debut winner at Warrnambool on an extremely heavy track during the May Carnival, The Ciaron Maher and David Eustace-trained Scentify returned on a Good 4 track on Saturday to win the Membership On Sale Plate (1200m).

Ridden by Ben Allen, Scentify ($18) scored a half-length win over Prinzerro ($4.60) with Jewel Bay ($9.50) a half-neck away third.

Eustace said the stable was still trying to work out the best trip for the colt who he said had changed a lot since his debut win in May.

“He’s matured and developed into a really good-looking colt,” Eustace said.

“We’ve been toying over just what his trip is over the last month or so as he doesn’t do a huge amount at home. He’s a little laid back at home which suggests he will get a bit further.

“I’m sure he will get further, but he showed a good turn of foot there.

“Whether we go to seven (1400m) or save him for down the straight at Flemington and the sprint distances, we’ll see, but it’s a nice problem to have.”

Scentify settled at the tail of the field on Saturday and Eustace praised the ride of Allen who was able to slice through the field before storming to a comfortable win.

“It was a lovely ride from Ben. We said to just ride him quiet for another day and further into the preparation, and he didn’t panic,” Eustace said.

“And we’re delighted for him as well as he has to work very hard on his weight and he had to work hard to get to the 56 (kilos) today.

“It was a good performance from the horse and the team at Ballarat has done a great job when prepping him up for this race.”