Trainer Peter Balzen has no regrets about Dansonate missing the $2 million Magic Millions Classic despite the colt’s impressive victory at Eagle Farm.
Dansonate ($10) hauled in early leader Auchenflower ($41) close to the line to score by 1-1/4 lengths with Congo ($21) a further three-quarters of a length away third in Saturday’s Channel Seven Handicap (1000m).
The lucrative odds belied Dansonate’s recent solid performances.
Dansonate was runner-up, albeit it six lengths from top Magic Millions Classic hope Sizzling at Eagle Farm on November 12.
At his previous three runs, Dansonate earned prize money behind city winners Noogoora Burr, Snipzu and Top Rada.
Dansonate cost $12,000 at the Magic Millions sales and was not paid up for the 1200m Gold Coast feature on January 14.
“The owners got him for only $12,000 but he’s not in the Magic Millions,” Balzen said.
While Balzen would have loved to saddle up a Magic Millions runner, he’s not concerned about Dansonate missing the 1200m feature.
“He’s done a good job already as this is the first time he’s been in work,” Balzen said.
“He came straight into work after being broken in.
“His sire, Snippetson, has done a good job and is second on the sires’ list.”
Balzen will recommend to Dansonate’s owners to spell the youngster immediately.
“There’s a 1200 metre race coming up in two weeks but I’d rather spell him immediately,” he said.
“You can’t be greedy.”
Balzen said Dansonate was the first city winner from his dam Quickstep Lady whose three previous foals had been winners at provincial meetings.
Winning jockey Ryan Wiggins conceded he had a few concerns at the top of the straight when Auchenflower booted well clear.
“I wasn’t too confident of catching the leader when he darted clear,” Wiggins said.
“Auchenflower only had 50 kilos and my bloke had an extra six kilos to carry.
“He’s a nice horse and has a bit of a future.”
AAP TURF
