Cambridge trainer John Bell is expecting his Te Awamutu winner Gorgeous Ryder to make his mark over more ground.

“He’s got the pedigree there and he’s looking quite an exciting staying prospect,” he said.

“He relaxes and just goes to sleep so we’ll find a nice race for him over the Christmas period.”

The patiently-handled Gorgeous Ryder followed up his debut second with a strong performance to win over 1580 metres this afternoon.

Bred by Goodwood Stud, the five-year-old is a well-related son of their former resident sire Chinese Dragon.

“He’s a brother to Serpent, who won the St Leger for Murray Baker and Andrew Forsman,” Bell said.

Gorgeous Ryder and Serpent are out of the Irish-bred Arazi mare Twizzle.

She is a half-sister to the European Group winners Twist And Turn (Chester Vase Stakes) and Meath (Gallinule Stakes).