Quilista proves she is one to watch

Myalup trainer Justin Warwick began the biggest week in Bunbury racing on a winning note, as Quilista continued her fantastic run by winning the $100,000 Rangeview Stud Classic (1400m) at the Bunbury Turf Club on Sunday.

The three-year-old filly has won every start since breaking her maiden status in January at Pinjarra and has not looked out of place with the big guns.

William Pike was in the saddle for Sunday’s big race and positioned her well at the turn to win by two lengths from the Stephen Miller-trained Variation and jockey Damian Lane.

Warwick said he rapt with the victory.

“I brought her as a yearling and had big hopes for her,” he said.

“But until you put them under pressure, you never know.”

Pike did not have it all his own way as Akiko jumped to an early lead, but he settled nicely on the straight in what would end up being a good victory.

Warwick said he did not give Pike any instructions before the race.

“He said he was travelling well and did not want to hit the front turning home, but that is the way she went,” he said.

“When he asked her for an effort she held them all off.”

Warwick said a pull in the weights and Quilista’s superior fitness helped her grab the win.

“She was hard work to begin with, it has taken a long time to get her here,” he said.

“She always had above average ability, but now she has started to sort herself out.”

Warwick said he was unsure what would be next for Quilista, but believed there was a bright future. “She is only a kid, so we will see,” he said.

Warwick will now turn his attention to Thursday’s $120,000 XXXX Gold Bunbury Cup (2200m).

Gelding Material Man will be one of the favourites for the big race, coming off a win in the Prince of Wales Cup earlier this month.

The five-year-old has eight wins from 12 starts and has not placed just once in his fantastic career.

Material Man is coming off two wins this campaign and will be primed for a Cup run.