The Gold Coast has been a happy hunting ground for David Pfieffer and he is hoping Magic Millions Guineas favourite Safusa can keep it that way.
The Sydney trainer has an unblemished record at the track with three winners from as many runners.
Graceful Anna took out the the Magic Millions 3YO race in 2010 and two starts later claimed one of the other Gold Coast features, the Silk Stocking.
Pfieffer also landed the Magic Millions fillies and mares Quality last year with Gai’s Choice.
“I hope I don’t lose that strike rate,” Pfieffer said.
While Pfieffer has enjoyed unblemished success at the Gold Coast, the owners of Safusa have also been lucky having won last year’s Classic with Karuta Queen.
Safusa has raced six times for three wins and two placings and his only defeat this campaign was a second to the highly-touted Didntcostalot.
He showed his mettle when he overcame the outside barrier to win the Magic Millions Wyong 3YO Stakes on December 22 and has been kept up to the mark with a recent barrier trial win.
Pfieffer said the gelding arrived at the Gold Coast on Sunday and settled in well.
“It’s like any horse. They take one or two days to find their feet but he is as good as gold,” he said.
“He has adapted to the heat as well which is a good key.”
Pfieffer’s only question mark is the 1400-metre journey.
Safusa’s wins have been over 1000m and 1200m (twice) and the distance rise is uncharted waters.
“The biggest test is probably the 1400 metres but drawing gate two will give him every opportunity to get it,” Pfieffer said.
Safusa was a clear $3.80 favourite with TAB Sportsbet on Thursday and Pfieffer said his position at the top of markets was justified.
He doesn’t believe this year’s edition is as strong as past runnings, particularly the year Graceful Anna won.
“If you look at Graceful Anna’s field there were three or four Group One winners,” Pfieffer said.
“Horses like Tallow, Love Conquers All, Shoot Out, Captain Sonador.
“I think the first 10 over the line that year all ended up winning in town.
“Saturday’s race doesn’t look to have the same class compared to that and my bloke is probably the horse on the improve.”
AAP TURF
