Chris Waller encouraged by Wodeton's edge in Newmarket prep

Even though just a jump-out, Chris Waller felt positive about Wodeton defeating Newmarket Handicap competitors at Flemington.

Both Wodeton and fellow stablemate Angel Capital, entered in the upcoming Group 1 1200m sprint at Flemington this Saturday, competed in Friday's jump-out, with Wodeton prevailing by a nose.

Waller doesn't often aim to dominate jump-outs, but he believes this result will build Wodeton's self-assurance ahead of needing that elusive Group 1 win for his resume.

"I don't like winning jump-outs, but he needs a bit of confidence.," Waller said.

"He's just been meeting some superior rivals in events not paced ideally for him, but it served as an excellent morale lift.

"He's a colt bred to be a stallion, but he's run second, narrowly, in the Golden Slipper and ran second in the Golden Rose and he just needs to tick that Group 1 box.

"Down the straight also opens up options of going overseas if you manage to win the Newmarket."

A Wootton Bassett offspring – sire who passed away recently – Wodeton could fill his father's shoes with a Group 1 conquest.

According to Waller, retirement to stud looms at season's end for Wodeton.

"He's a son of Wootton Bassett and we've lost him unfortunately and it's important he steps up and that's the challenge," Waller said.

"Heading overseas is part of that challenge, especially if he's going to be retired at the end of his three-year-old year.

"We all love winning races in Australia, but if you can do that and then head over to Ascot, it makes the big difference."

Angel Capital mirrors Wodeton in chasing a breakthrough Group 1.

In opposition to Wodeton's front-running style, Angel Capital trailed far behind under restraint.

"We just wanted him to get a good look at the track, have a nice easy time and keep him well contained," Waller said.

"His first-up run in Sydney was very good and he's come through it well and hopefully the straight 1200 metres will really suit him.

"Being a Group 1 race, it will tick the box that needs to be ticked.

"Everyone knows he has the ability, but he's got to win that Group 1 race, and it also opens up so many options if he's performing well up the straight."

The trainer eyes the Group 1 William Reid Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield March 21 for the pair.

"Angel Capital loves Caulfield," Waller said.

"It's a two-week break, so it would be there or we could get them back up to Sydney for the T J Smith Stakes, but we have a leaning towards the William Reid."

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