Winx returns for Spring 2017 campaign

The build-up towards the 2017 Spring Carnival went to another level this week when Winx returned to the track. The champion galloper had her first trial of the season at Randwick on Monday kicking off her 2017 Spring Carnival campaign.

After viewing her effort in the 900m heat trial, the simple conclusion was that 'nothing has changed'. Winx settled back towards the rear of the field after jumping, typical of her efforts in past trials throughout her career. From the naked eye she seemed to be doing it very easily.

As they cornered for home she had a few horses in her path, she then found the clear at the 200m and quickened noticeably. From that point on she effortlessly ate up ground to close sharply on the leader and eventual winner Diamond Tathagata.

She finished third, one and a half-lengths away, a similar result to many of her past trial efforts. Hugh Bowman set the record straight after the run saying "She trialled as good as ever".

Trainer Chris Waller was equally impressed with the wonder mare's return.

"I think she has finally developed into a mature race horse. She is as strong as you will ever see her. We purposely don't let her get too heavy so then we are not making it hard to get back to full fitness again," he said.

With confidence beaming about the great mare's prospects for another brilliant Spring campaign, discussion has now ramped-up about her Spring racing schedule.

Likely 2017 Spring schedule

• Group 2 Warwick Stakes (1400m) Randwick, August 19
• Group 2 Chelmsford Stakes (1600m) Randwick, September 2
• Group 1 George Main Stakes (1600m) Randwick, September 16
• Group 3 Craven Plate (2000m) Randwick or Group 1 Caulfield Stakes (2000m), October 14
• Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m) Mooney Valley, October 28

While this is what punters can expect to play-out, Chris Waller has made it clear that her only definite start will be her first one in the Warwick Stakes. If she encounters heavy tracks along the way it's possible that he may spread her runs out more to give her sufficient time to recover.

Seeing the Queen of the Turf come back this week has elevated the excitement and level of anticipation amongst Australian punters. If the mare chalks up another five wins over her 2017 Spring preparation, she will be only three wins away from Black Caviar's amazing achievement of 25 consecutive wins.

Mike Steward