Chris Waller’s first two-year-old winner of the season is usually one to follow, and he believes Snitzel colt Fireball fits that pattern.

The youngster produced a sharp debut to claim the Schweppes Handicap (1100m) at Rosehill, joining past early-season winners Brazen Beau and Omei Sword, who also helped kickstart Waller’s juvenile campaigns.

“If they do, it’s normally a pretty good one. They get there on their own without doing much work,” Waller said.
“He’s a lovely colt… All of my staff have said he’s a very professional horse… They keep saying, ‘he will go the next step’.”
“It’s always a good sign when they come out and do it pretty raw and not pushed.”

A $460,000 Inglis Easter purchase, Fireball is expected to head for a spell before a targeted Golden Slipper preparation in the autumn.

Waller’s patient approach with juveniles has paid dividends in the past, with Global Quest and Shaquero making major impacts after early-season success.

Fireball ($8) scored by a length over Tigroni, with Euripedes finishing third.

Jockey Tommy Berry said his only concern was the shorter trip.
“He’s going to be lovely when he gets to 14(00 metres), maybe even a mile,” Berry said.

Fireball is a $34 chance in early Slipper betting.