The Sundon filly worked into her 2200m heat well after a steady start, taking over the lead from Walktheviadolorosa when the latter galloped with 1600m to go and was subsequently retired from the race.
The 3yr-old continued to trot boldly to the line through a blustery wind, recording a time of 2.56.4 - 8.3sec under the required qualifying time.
The Jinja Ninja qualified as a pacer in October 2012, but has been unplaced in nine starts with the hopples on. Her trainer-driver, Alan Clark, said the paternal side of her breeding had caused him to try her as a pacer first.
''She was a bit rattle-headed as a Sundon, so that's why I had her pacing first,'' Clark said.
''But she's got quite a bit of speed.''
Clark will look to find the filly a start within the next couple of weeks.
The options for The Fiery Ginga, who finished second in the 2200m free-for-all heat behind Cherokee Charlie, are more limited, and Clark will be keeping a close eye on the nominations for the $25,000 Banks Peninsula Trotting Cup on September 29.
''I'll see what handicap he gets in that, although the big stars often go there, too.''
Cherokee Charlie will start at the Northern Southland meeting at Ascot Park on September 27 after his win in 2.49.9. Driver and co-trainer Jonny Cox sent him to the lead with 1400m to go and held off the late bid of The Fiery Ginga who sat parked for the last 1200m.
''He'll probably need the run [at Ascot Park] but we might as well go to the races,'' Cox said.
Space Ace put a tidy display together to beat Mum Beat Lyall, who is still having issues with the final bend at Forbury Park.
