The G2 Bill Stutt Stakes at Moonee Valley on September 30 is the next step up the ladder for last start winner Whisper Downs.

The Eliza Park graduate was a $48,000 buy at the 2010 Adelaide Magic Millions yearling sale and his earnings increased to $64,450 after an impressive victory in the Chandler Macleod Hcp last Saturday.

Whisper Downs (3g Churchill Downs – Gur by Lake Coniston) is prepared by David Hayes.  He also trained the gelding’s sire to a controversial win in the 2006 Stutt Stakes.  He claimed that year’s edition on protest from Magic Jet after jockey Craig Williams claimed intimidation in the straight.

“He looks like Churchill Downs,” Hayes said.  “He is not as polished and flashy at Churchill Downs because he was a colt.

“Whisper Downs will definitely be back at the Valley for the Stutt Stakes and, if he runs well, will go for the Caulfield Guineas.  I reckon he has got a nice future.”

Churchill Downs stands at Blue Gum Farm and his latest winner is from a half sister to the Black Opal Stakes winner Down the Wicket.