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Canberra trainer Matt Dale was delighted to book recently arrived Victorian apprentice Zac Spain for progressive filly Further To Fly ($4 into $2.50 on TAB fixed odds) on Tuesday with an eye to the Kembla Grange Classic later in the month.

Zac Spain - will ride Further To Fly at Kembla Grange today. Picture by Zimbio

The Pierro filly will run over 1400m in a Racing NSW Rising Star Series heat at Kembla with Dale using the Gymea Combined Probus Club Class 1 Handicap as a gauge for the future.

“She missed a run Canberra the other week with a foot abscess and this race seemed to be the right fit in a couple of ways,” Dale said.

“I wouldn’t usually run her in an apprentice race because she needs a bit of riding, so I had to find an experienced jockey, which was a bit tough because I left it late.

“Fortunately Zac has just arrived and he was available. We get her to 1400m and step her up in grade against the older horse, which will give a good indication of where she sits.”

Further To Fly has only had the two starts, she disappointed when well supported on debut before delivering a 6-1/4 length maiden at her home track on February 2. Dale was toying with the idea of better things with her, especially as the races stretch beyond a mile.

“If she was to run well at Kembla, you have to look at the Classic with her,” Dale said. “I would be lying if I said she isn’t there to have a look at the track and see if can she can be competitive."

View the final fields with full form & race replays for Kembla Grange here