Chris Waller may win far bigger races this year, but Wednesday’s Warwick Farm maiden carried special significance.

The victory came courtesy of well-bred filly Nandina, a daughter of So You Think out of champion mare Catkins.

Catkins won 16 races for Waller, including five Group 2 and five Group 3 victories, and remains second only to Winx for career wins from the stable.

“Everyone in the stable had a soft spot for Catkins – not only was she the winner of 16 races, but she had the most beautiful temperament,” Waller posted on social media.

“It was wonderful to see one of her daughters salute on debut today at Warwick Farm.

“Well done to the Ingham family who raced Catkins and subsequently bred this lovely filly by So You Think.”

Despite drifting from $12 to $19, Nandina charged home under Kerrin McEvoy to run down favourite Manukau.

“Obviously she’s well-bred, we’ve just taken our time with her (and) her mum was the same,” Waller told Sky Racing.

“(She’s got) big shoes to fill, but she’s on her way.”