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Pukekohe trainer Nigel Tiley is optimistic that Midnight Gossip can measure up over 1600 metres against the best of her age group.

To that end, he has set her on a path to the Gr.1 gavelhouse.com NZ 1000 Guineas at Riccarton on November 12.

“I think we can stretch her out to a mile - the Showcasings have showed they can get over a bit of ground in Europe,” Tiley said.

Midnight Gossip showed her potential last season with a debut win at Te Aroha, where she accounted for the subsequent Listed Champagne Stakes winner Astara, to earn a crack at the Gr.1 Diamond Stakes.

She was unplaced in the Ellerslie feature, but she produced a creditable performance to finish less than three and a-half lengths off the unbeaten colt Heroic Valour.

Midnight Gossip’s 1000 Guineas campaign took in a trial outing last week at Avondale where rider Leith Innes gave her an easy time when unplaced in an open heat over 800 metres.

“She never came off the bridle and the wet track didn’t suit her at all,” Tiley said.

“Leith just let her stretch her legs and follow the others around. I’m happy with her – she’s a smart filly.”

Midnight Gossip is likely to kick off her three-year-old season at Te Rapa on Friday. “She’s ready to go as long as the track is okay for her,” Tiley said.