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By Tony Megahey

The accomplished Gold Coast stable of Michael Costa is primed for Monday’s Ballina TAB meeting where emerging talents should justify favouritism.

The decade-long trainer, former jockey and NSW Racing Steward, also accepted with several in better grade at Saturday’s Gold Coast meeting but his preference for Ballina is the strongest lead possible for punters.

Trainer Michael Costa

Costa runners will head the betting in several of the six races at the popular Northern Rivers track, most to be ridden by Andrew Mallyon.

“We’re deciding on duals I haven’t been through the form thoroughly yet, but we’ll have nice chances on the day,” Costa offered, assessing his Ballina runners.

He opens with debut three-year-old Thisland Is Myland who has trialled extensively.

“He came into our system later than expected, had extended time off with shin soreness, immature but nice ability and forward enough.”

The gelding resumed with two recent trials at his home track and will be ridden by Mallyon in the XXXX Gold Maiden (1300m).

Defactor contests a Roofing and Craftsman BM 58 (1000m) after perplexing Costa when tailing off as favourite at Ipswich.

“Inconclusive, we think he got his tongue over the bit or choked down, his best would be winning this, he was impressive winning at home last prep. But last start does leave a confidence issue.”

The stable has Brave Nick and Vivyn in the ZZZZFM Class 1, 1400m: “They’re duals; Vivyn is very smart, won her maiden by ‘seven’ so a genuine touch of class about her and she’s had the two trials. Brave Nick wants more ground, out to 1600m or further.”

Costa has another hot prospect in Hostwin Toronado, short odds again on the strength of a 4.5 length maiden win at the Gold Coast at $1.35.

“A dual but highly promising. It was a heavy nine when he won his maiden at home but he’s effective on any going. He’s come back super; we think he’ll go through the grades.”

At present Ballina is a Good 4 in fine weather.

View the final fields with full form & race replays for Ballina here