The signs were positive that spring is on the way after star mare, Commanding Jewel, satisfied her trainer, Leon Corstens, galloping at Moonee Valley yesterday.

Ridden in the gallop, by Damian Oliver, she looked a picture striding out with Fantome Gris as a companion; the time for the final 200 metres was 11.53 secs.

While Corstens was thrilled with the mare and how she pulled up, however, he is not going to be pressed into a firm decision as to when she will have her first start after such a long break.

She will be the decision maker; it will now depend on how well she does in the stable over the coming week or so, just like a game of chess the next move is hers.

An enforced break through injury has seen the mare off the racing scene for 10 months, since her win in the Thousand Guineas, thus she has missed much of her three year old season, no risks will be taken with her now.

Her connections have been patient with the mare, time has been the deciding factor, a couple of more weeks won’t make much difference, if it is all for the welfare of the mare.

Commanding Jewel - Nearly ready to resume