‘Better late than never’ seems to be Valevole’s mantra when he ran true to his style by storming home late to win the $100,000 Open Benchmark 97 race over 1100m on Friday night.

Polytrack specialist Valevole proved that horses should not always be pigeon-holed when he finally recorded his first win over turf on Sunday.

Trainer Brian Dean may still be back in Bendigo caught up in the New Year revelry, but the team at home was already hard at work, with their efforts rewarded.

After having had to pass numerous barrier tests, Pioneer Seven has finally made good, but will this Friday, face another test, probably his toughest by far, in his bid for a sixth win.

While he may have burnt a lot of his supporters in the Woodlands Handicap last start talented sprinter Huka Falls appears set to make amends at Singapore on Friday.