Trainer Liam Birchley’s hopes of qualifying Write Cheek for the Magic Millions Classic came to an abrupt end when the filly was comprehensively beaten by Optionality at Doomben.
Optionality ($8), ridden by apprentice Luke Rolls, led all the way to claim the Coca Cola Amatil Open Handicap (1020m) after finishing third at her first two starts.
Write Cheek ($3.30) was two lengths back with Birchley saying the hard track did her no favours.
A $100,000 buy at the Magic Millions sales, Write Cheek was having her second start having finished ninth on debut on a heavy track at Eagle Farm last month.
“I’m disappointed. She’s lengths better than that,” Birchley said.
“She felt the ground which was pretty hard and that is what I was always worried about before the race.
“While these tracks are so hard there’s no point continuing with her so I’ll send her straight to the paddock and give the Magic Millions a miss.”
Optionality is prepared by Caloundra trainer Ted Harden who bought her at the QBBS sales in Brisbane.
Harden’s wife Bette, who is a part-owner, said Optionality had always shown promise.
“She’s a good filly who showed us ability from the time she first stepped foot in our stable,” she said.
“She’s very genuine and you only had to watch her parade to know that.”
Rolls is confident Optionality will handle a step up in distance to 1200 metres during the summer months.
“She began very well but I really liked the way she settles,” Rolls said.
“I’ve go no doubt she’ll get further the way she relaxes so well.”
AAP TURF
