By Isaac Murphy
Boom David Vandyke three-year-old Hold The Line returned to the races in impressive fashion in the QTIS 3YO Handicap over 1200m at Corbould Park on Saturday, giving the trainer a winning double and keeping her unbeaten record in tact.
Vandyke said the Hold The Line had been full of energy at home and gave every indication she was ready to fire first-up.
“She was excited to be back at the races, she was doing her best to buck Jeff (Lloyd) off on the way to the barriers, I think she was ready to run about 10 laps,” Vandyke said.
“Jeff did a good job settling her down pre-race and got to a nice spot in the run.
“When she began to let down at the 300 I thought she was going to gap them, but I’ll take a head.”
Vandyke outlined future plans for the rising three-year-old who has already amassed sizeable QTIS prizemoney bonuses.
“I’ll be looking for further with her now, I think the 1400 is well and truly up her alley.,” he said.
“She’s a really exciting horse for myself and the owners, she’s earned over $180000 with the QTIS bonuses already.
“Each time she’s come to the races she presents fitter and stronger and although she’s tested us with her attitude she just wants to race.”
Vandyke said the three month lay-off was a part of a plan to have the filly ripe for a Magic Millions tilt.
“I was thinking about tipping her out after her last run when she beat Defence Missile, but I decided the best course would be to just give her a freshen up,” he said.
“Hopefully we can build her up through this prep and peak for the three year old’s Magic Millions Race.”