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Nudge has continued her Queensland form surge with victory in the Magic Millions National Classic.
Having arrived in Queensland with just two wins from 18 starts, Nudge has thrived in the warmer climate to put back-to-back victories together and earn a shot at the Group 1 Tattersall's Tiara.
The mare had been racing well in Sydney but was struggling to get her head in front, however that has changed since her arrival in Brisbane.
After overcoming difficulties to win the Pam O'Neill Stakes for Kerrin Mcevoy last start, she again made a sustained run to chase down topline performer Nettoyer and capture Saturday's $500,000 Magic Millions National Classic (1600m).
Trainer Chris Waller is keen to build on Nudge's newfound confidence and aim her towards the Tattersall's Tiara (1400m) at the end of the month.
"They seem to thrive when they find that confidence. Her runs in Sydney were good and since she has been here in the Queensland stable, she has basically gone to a whole new level," Waller said.
"We've basically taken luck out of the equation at her last two, she has gone back near-last from wide draws and Kerrin hasn't panicked and she's got the job done both times.
"Coming back to 1400 metres, today was a mile, look we'll keep her nice and fresh, keep her in this Queensland sun and hope she draws a gate (in the Tattersall's Tiara) where she can be that touch closer and just make it a touch easier as well."
In a busy finish, Nudge ($5.50) overpowered Yamazaki ($18) to score by a half-length with Roc Clock ($6.50) and Nettoyer ($3 fav) both close up in third and fourth respectively.
