AUSTRALIS continued his ascension up the handicap ranks with a smooth success in Tuesday's 0-85 1m6f Handicap at Wolverhampton.

He bagged his first victory last season in a Class 4 Handicap at Chelmsford where he was ridden from the front in blinkers. Fast forward 9 months and he looks more the finished article this season having matured into his significant frame. He showed tactical speed through the middle part of the race and that all important acceleration at the business end to record a convincing win under jockey Jack Mitchell. Things didn't go completely his way as he was caught in a pocket inside the final half mile and had to fend off a strong challenge from the favourite Cavaran Of Hope, which made his victory all the more pleasing. 

Australis is a gentle giant with a great mind and he should be capable of staying further in time.

"He is developing into a nice stayer and we should have some fun with him this season". (Roger)