One-time Group One aspirant Yonce (NZ) (Proisir) is inching closer to a long-awaited return over the summer months after a third jumpout for her comeback campaign at Cranbourne on Monday.
It has been more than 18 months since Yonce has raced and trainer Ciaron Maher said the mare might still need a little more time making her return to the fray after travelling keenly in her 1000-metre trial.
“She trialled well, but she just wanted to overdo it a fraction early and it took a little bit out of her finish,” Maher said.
“She is still getting there. It’s her third jumpout and just getting her back is the main thing.”
Purchased by some high-profile Australian owners after two trials in New Zealand, Yonce was then unbeaten in her first six starts. Her first and only defeat came in April 2022 in the Gr.1 Queen Of The Turf Stakes (1600m), where she ultimately finished fourth on a Heavy 10 surface.
She was being readied for the 2022 spring carnival when she pulled up from a gallop with a serious ligament injury.
“She did a super job and went to Group One company and ran well, so she’s that sort of quality,” Maher said. “It’s not there yet, but she’s getting there.
“She’ll probably have a run (over summer) as horses like that, you have to get them back feeling well and sound for them to perform at their best.”
