Chris Waller targets autumn clues from Karinska and Panova in Surround Stakes
While not foreseeing a win against star fillies Tempted and Apocalyptic, trainer Chris Waller expects encouraging runs from Karinska and Panova during the Group One Surround Stakes at Randwick.
The fillies carry double-digit quotes into Saturday's three-year-old showdown, where Waller aims for them to strike the line strongly ahead of a tilt at the Phar Lap Stakes (1500m) next up.
A Group 1 placegetter over the mile in spring, Karinska was a late-closing fifth behind Savvy Hallie - who she meets again Saturday - in the Light Fingers Stakes (1200m), persisting as an overlooked $34 prospect in the Surround.
"She is under-rated. That's not saying she can beat those good horses, it's a very good edition," Waller said.
"We're not expecting too much, but if she's running top five than we're on track to finding our own way somewhere."
The Phar Lap Stakes (1500m) on March 14 at Rosehill has been locked in as her next port of call by Waller, who boasts eight wins in 11 years there exclusively with fillies.
That same race serves as the prompt focus for $17 chance Panova, stepping into Group 1 waters after a strong spring finish highlighted by Group 3 victories in the Reginald Allen (1400m) and Carbine Club Stakes (1600m).
Her trainer is optimistic about what lies ahead for her, leaving open the possibility of tackling seasoned mares in the Coolmore Classic (1500m).
"She will go to the Phar Lap and the Vinery. If she was really impressive in the Phar Lap, she could go to the Coolmore," he said.
"She is a really good horse. She was impressive in those two wins. She came from well back in each of them."
"She is still carrying a bit of weight, but Saturday is a great starting point."
James Mcdonald, aboard for Panova's recent pair of trials, sticks with the promising filly on Saturday.
By his lofty benchmarks, Waller's Surround Stakes ledger is underwhelming, managing just two successes via Hinged in 2022 and Lady Shenandoah in the most recent edition.
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