Trainer sets Indigo Ora for 2000m test

WA trainer Dan Morton believes Indigo Ora has her hoof on the till and is overdue to breakthrough in the Rural Focus Maiden (2000m) at Bunbury on Friday.

The Oratorio filly has shown positive signs in her maiden campaign but she is looking to break the shackles after two placings from five starts.

She came desperately close at Northam when she rattled home from the tail of the field but was denied by The Cat Ratcher who scored by a head.

At Narrogin she started a warm favourite but got too far out of her ground before storming home for third behind Key Black.

Morton, coming off a successful Ascot carnival, says Indigo Ora is working her way towards a win as she steps up over further ground.

"I'm taking her out to 2000m for the first time which might be a stretch," Morton said.

"But I like the way she has been hitting the line.

"She probably hasn't had a lot go her way this campaign. She is due for a change of luck."

William Pike, who replaces Jerry Noske, partners Indigo Ora from barrier seven. Noske takes over on Nishio, a top chance after three consecutive placings.

Morton is excited to unveil Lolong earlier in the Wake Up With Cliff and Loz Maiden (1400m).

The three-year-old gears up for his debut off the back of three 1000m trials and Morton believes he has a future.

"He is a late maturing type and I think this looks a suitable race for him," Morton said.

"He has showed enough in his trials and the 1400m will suit.

"I'm hoping he can develop into my Derby horse next year."

Pike and Lolong, with the addition of blinkers, will start from barrier seven in the field of 11.

While two of Morton's stars are enjoying well-deserved breaks another, Red Ora, is back in work as he targets a feature country race double.

"He has come back in magnificent order and will be set for next year's Pinjarra Classic (1300m) and Bunbury Stakes (1400m)," Morton said.

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