The path to Western Australia's feature juvenile races starts in earnest for trainer Simon Miller with Golden Vale resuming at Ascot on Saturday.
Golden Vale was an emphatic winner on debut four months ago and Miller is confident she can deliver on her big potential again.
The highly regarded Churchill filly runs in the Andrich Cousins Raceday Plate (1000m) and her barrier trial showed she's ready to be a force again.
Golden Vale ran second in a 950m heat at Lark Hill, shaded late by Glasgow Lass who stamped her credentials by winning first-up last weekend.
Snapped up for $130,000, Golden Vale runs for Coolmore and was bred in Victoria, but offered at the Magic Millions Perth Yearling Sale.
Miller said Golden Vale was in good shape ahead of her first-up assignment and believes she's improved since her last preparation.
"You will see a very good filly," Miller said.
"She was a bit above herself and fierce in the trial, but she blew the cobwebs out and knocked some nervous energy away.
"She has been a bomb since and you will see a good filly on Saturday.
"She is going superior to last prep and was dominant last prep.
"We're in for a fantastic campaign."
Holly Watson is the new rider for Golden Vale, Miller's former top apprentice gifted a prized opportunity.
Golden Vale was ridden by champion hoop William Pike on debut, but his broken ankle has opened the door for Watson.
Watson has done a lot of the work behind the scenes on Golden Vale and got a good feel for her in a couple of trials.
