Island Dream books a Kembla Grange Classic date with Rosehill win
Chris Waller had high hopes that Island Dream could prove herself ready for a step up in class, and she did exactly that with a stylish win at Rosehill.
The filly, a homebred by 2016 Group 1 Caulfield Guineas (1600m) champion Divine Prophet, is now on course for the Group 3 Kembla Grange Classic (1600m).
Island Dream ($14) displayed great determination in the Ranvet Handicap (1500m), finishing a length clear of the previously unbeaten Atelier ($6), with race favorite Spaceballs ($2.80) rounding out the placings.
“She needed to step up from her maiden win, and she has,” Waller said, referencing her February 12 victory at Hawkesbury.
“She hit the line hard today, keeps progressing, and has earned her place in a race like the Kembla Grange Classic.”
Jockey Kerrin McEvoy, who had previously partnered the filly at the trials, was impressed with her performance.
“She was sharp at Hawkesbury, so her effort today didn’t surprise me,” McEvoy said.
“She has a great attitude, handled the rise in grade, and might even get further.”
The Kembla Grange Classic, scheduled for March 14, is shaping up as Island Dream’s next major target after securing Waller’s third win in the first four races at Rosehill.
Shortly after, Imperial Force put in a powerful performance, giving trainer Bjorn Baker a double on the day. The three-year-old colt looks to be a strong prospect.
A $285,000 Inglis Digital purchase by Darby Racing, the son of Snitzel wasted no time in justifying the investment, claiming his first victory since making the switch from Waller to Baker.
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