Miss Ole stamps her 2025 Spring Racing Carnival credentials

Trainer Clinton McDonald was full of praise for two-year-old Miss Ole after she bounced back from a luckless debut to post a strong win at Sandown Hillside on Saturday.

Miss Ole, backed into a $2.50 favourite with top betting apps, settled beautifully under Ben Melham before surging to the front late in the 1000m Sportsbet Jockey Watch Handicap.

The Ole Kirk filly had fluffed the start on debut in the VOBIS Gold Strike at Warrnambool, but she made no such error this time and repaid punters’ faith with a convincing win over Saluted ($3.80) and Espana ($14).

“It was a bit of a sick feeling watching her first run,” McDonald said. “She missed the start badly, and that was the end of it. But she’s come on in leaps and bounds since.”

McDonald said Miss Ole had always shown class at home and her rapid improvement since debut gave him confidence heading into Saturday’s assignment.

“We were very confident today,” he said. “She just needed to get things right, and she did. She was still a little bit keen early, but she’s got a serious motor.”

Bought for $360,000 at the Inglis Premier Yearling Sale, Miss Ole is showing signs she could be a spring feature contender. McDonald flagged a possible next start on June 7 before a potential black-type campaign later in the year.

“She’ll have one more go, and then we’ll tip her out for a break,” he said. “I think she’s got what it takes to be a stakes horse. She’s got a great attitude and just keeps improving.”

The stable has endured some recent losses with the departure of key runners, but McDonald is confident Miss Ole can help fill the void.

“She’s one of the most promising horses we’ve got. We’re rebuilding the team and she’s at the top of the list for the spring,” he added.

“We’ve got a big team in work and a lot of young ones coming through, but she’s a standout. She’s professional, talented, and there’s more to come.”