The money told the story in the Pipe Pro Directional Drilling 2YO Maiden Plate (1200m) at Ballarat on Tuesday with the two well-backed debutants Do It La and Red Rapid fighting it out.
The Peter Moody-trained debutant, Shalaa (IRE) filly Do It La, kept kicking under Blaike McDougall to stave off the challenge of the Merchant Navy filly Red Rapid by a long-neck. It was another nine lengths back to third placed Pierro gelding Demon Darb in third.
Assistant trainer, Katherine Coleman, said the daughter of Shalaa (IRE) will take huge improvement off the run.
“Very happy with that as she is a filly that has always showed us great ability at home, but mentally and a touch physically we still think she is a prep away to be anywhere near her best,” Coleman said.
“So, to see her come and do that today is really encouraging.
“She is a beautiful filly, still immature, but she will take a lot away today education wise. She has had a good day out so couldn’t be happier.
“She will get over further than this in future, but at the moment she has to grow and develop before we start stretching her out in trip.”
Carrying the colours of Elegant Fashion’s Hong Kong based owner Dr Gene Tsoi, Do It La was passed-in short of her $50,000 reserve when offered by Bhima Stud at the 2021 Magic Millions Gold Coast National Yearling Sale.
She is the second live foal and first to race out of the unraced High Chaparral (IRE) mare Waytoohigh a half-sister to the Group II placed winners King Krovanh (Fastnet Rock) and Lady Krovanh (Dehere).
Lesleigh Investments shelled out $10,000 for Waytoohigh at the 2021 Inglis Australian Broodmare Sale when carrying a colt by Territories (IRE).
From the family of Royal Ascot winners Fruits Of Love and Mujadil, Waytoohigh was covered by Harry Angel (IRE) last spring.
After five seasons of shuttling, Shalaa (IRE) remained at Arrowfield after completing the season in 2021.
The handsome son of Invincible Spirit has 23 catalogued for the Inglis Classic, 12 at the Melbourne Premier, three at Easter and three at the Adelaide Magic Millions.
