Patience is proving crucial for trainer Annabel Archibald as promising colt Mortal Halo builds towards a Magic Millions target next month.
Once wayward as a juvenile, the Better Than Ready three-year-old claimed his second victory in the Vinnie @ Yarraman Park Handicap (1500m) during Rosehill’s rescheduled Sunday meeting.
“We’ve always had a big opinion of him but as a two-year-old he just didn’t know where to put his legs,” Archibald said.
“He is better now and it is good to see him put them away.”
Mortal Halo ($3.20F) chased down Automne Tree ($8) to score by half a length, with The Mona Lisa ($14) close behind in third.
“He looked almost a bit lost in front and I was happy when the other horse crossed in front and had something to chase down,” Archibald said.
Connections hope to run him in the $3 million Magic Millions 3yo Guineas (1400m) on January 17, though he may require another start to lift his rating.
A brother to 2024 Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m) winner Port Lockroy, Mortal Halo comes from a family the stable knows well.
“He’s one of the nicest colts I’ve sat on in a long time,” jockey Reece Jones said.
“He’s so professional and a gentleman.”
Mortal Halo, passed in for $260,000 at the 2024 Magic Millions Sale, is a $26 chance for the Guineas, with JJ Atkins winner Cool Archie favourite at $3.