Trainer Cindy Alderson expects Joplin to begin fulfilling her potential in an upcoming summer campaign.

The Host mare scored a convincing victory first-up after a 14 week spell in the Procon Developments Hcp (1500m) at Cranbourne on Friday night.  She had last crack at the leaders and wasn’t pushed out by Brian Higgins to score by two lengths from Under The Leaner (Strada) and Riboulding (Dash For Cash).

Joplin (4m Host – Rising Eagle by Danehill) won her maiden at Ballarat 12 months ago but didn’t progress during a second preparation earlier this year.  “She’s a nice type with a strong constitution,” Alderson said.  “Brian knew what was underneath him.  She has been building up and can hopefully go through the grades as a four year-old.”

Part-owner and breeder Robert Proctor races her in partnership with Shane Braddick, Sam Furno, Greg Lavopa and David Reddish.

Joplin’s dam Rising Eagle was bred by Swettenham Stud and is an unraced sister to G1 Golden Slipper winner Ha Ha.  She has thrown five winners including Golden Eagle (Zabeel) who foaled Caulfield Cup winner Southern Speed.

Higgins said Joplin was always travelling like a winner on her home track.  “It panned out like it looked on paper,” he said back in the enclosure.  “She put them away easily and I think she’s got a future.”

Host (Chi) stands for a $9,900 (inc gst) service fee at Swettenham Stud and, for further information, broodmare owners should contact Adam Sangster (0418 543 633) or Chris Belli (0417 514 552).