Since the inaugural running of the Magic Millions Classic in 1987, the race has grown in stature and is regarded now as one of the premier events on the racing calender.
Some outstanding gallopers have taken out the third best race for juveniles (Golden Slipper first and Blue Diamond second), with the most notable victors being General Nediym in 1997, Assertive Lad in 2000, Regimental Gal in 2003, Phelan Ready in 2009 and last year with the Queanbeyan flying machine Karuta Queen. On Saturday 21 horses (five emergencies) will slog it out under the sunshine of the Gold Coast over 1200m for the $1.14 Million first prize.
1. Noogoora Burr
Did beat Sizzling first up in the Phelan Ready, but was no match for him and Driefontein last start in the Bruce McLachlan, where a majority of these horses did run last start. Barrier 12 does make it hard for him and he would need to improve significantly to figure in the finish. Doubt he can do it.
2. Amorino
Won like a very good horse last start at Rosehill where led at a very fast tempo and kept going to hold his rivals safely at bay. If the emergencies do come out, he’ll come in to barrier six, so he is drawn well enough to push forward without doing too much work. Not sure what Cassidy will do whether if he pushes for the lead or try and get a spot just behind the speed. Either case, he is a threat.
3. Sizzling
He has drawn a good barrier and therefore is back in the mix. Barrier manners are a little worrying because in order for him to win, he’ll need to go forward. His run behind Driefontein was fantastic and did make up a stack of ground. Main danger to the favourite.
4. Travino
Speedy colt from New Zealand who has already won two Listed races in his homeland. His form over there is solid, but from barrier 17, it is near impossible for him to win as he’ll be forced to bust his gut in the run.
5. Little Critter
Natural two-year-old who does everything right. Sat outside the pace last Saturday and battled on well behind Lady Colours. He does have tactical speed and from the barrier, he can get a soft trip. $12 for a place looks very good overs.
6. Fundido
Was a massive flop on Boxing Day when a very short price favourite. Trial win the other day was strong and he is back to his best form, but he is another one that might struggle from the wide barrier. In saying that, if they do decide to go crazy in front, which could happen, then this is the bloke you want to be on.
7. Pure Whisper
Had no luck behind Driefontein, but he was beaten a long way. Can’t have him here.
8. Driefontein
Pretty much a replica of Karuta Queen, except this filly can take a sit. Won like a superstar at Doomben when leading and booting clear to hold her rivals safely at bay. She’ll get the gun run here, and barring bad luck, she’ll just about win.
9. Hoss Amour
The TAB Number One Club pin-up horse and why not after his surprising win in the Magic Millions at Wyong. 23 days between runs is a slight concern but trainer John O’Shea has come out and said that will not be an issue as she doesn’t need racing to get her fit. She has a tricky barrier because Avdulla will either go forward or ease and attempt to find cover. She isn’t hopeless.
10. Snipzu
If this race was run in October, she’d be the clear favourite. But in her two runs this time in, she hasn’t been as good as what we know she can be. Should get a nice run from the barrier, but can she run out a strong 1200m in such a high pressure race? I don’t think so, but maybe first four player.
11. Discreet
Superb win first up in the Calaway Gal, but didn’t fire a shot behind Driefontein. Would need to improve many lengths to give this a shake but the key positive is the rider- Craig Williams. Anything he is riding at present just wins and fresh from a stint overseas after a very fruitful Spring Carnival, expect the champion hoop to give this filly every chance.
12. Alezan Thunder
Speedy filly who will be looking for the lead. Toyed with her rivals at Sandown last start over 900m in very slick time. Form has held up with Flying Hostess winning at Ballarat recently. When it comes to the big races, the Kavanagh/Rodd combination is one of the best in Australia. Definite chance with the right run.
13. Lady Colours
Her last two runs have been excellent, with an eye catching effort at Rosehill behind Amorino before a demolition job at the Gold Coast last Saturday. She is a filly to follow for the future, but again the barrier makes it very hard.
14. No Looking Back
Beautifully bred daughter of Redoute’s Choice out of Mirror Mirror, who took out the 2006 Magic Millions Classic. Had one start, back November, where she sat outside the tempo and won well. 56 days since that run, has had one trial to prepare for this, but expect Waterhouse to have her wound up to win.
15. Love Laughing
Handy Falvelon filly from the Troy Hall yard. Has had three starts for a win, a second and an unlucky fifth. Form isn’t flash, but he does have the coveted rails draw and could surprise many. Expect her to finish in the first half.
16. Mrs Gray
Nice type from the Hayes yard. Got home well behind Amorino and will appreciate a fast run 1200m. She’ll be hitting the line hard late, but the barrier may force her to sit a long way back off the pace.
17e. Dear Demi
She’s been racing over unsuitable distances hence the 1200m will suit her perfectly if she does gain a start. However, she has no gate speed and will be cluttered up near the fence in between runners.
18e. Shamrock Slipper
Three starts for three seconds albeit in much easier company than this. Not here.
19e. Antarctic Dream
Sat on the back of a hot pace at Rosehill but did nothing in the run home. Can’t see her improving enough to win.
20e. Grand Business
Super debut run behind Noogoora Burr and Sizzling, but was disappointing behind Driefontein. Needs it slightly easier.
21e. Doubtfilly
Was most unlucky last Saturday when held up, finally got out and charged late over 900m. 1200m suits but I doubt she’ll get a start.
Selections:
Very keen on Driefontein. Her two career starts to date have oozed class and I expect her to improve on that last start effort. I think the $3.40 that was offered was generous. Clearly on top for me. Sizzling has drawn a good barrier and if he does jump cleanly, he could sit on the back of Driefontein and have the last crack. Not sure he has the turn of foot to match it with her. No Looking Back was impressive on debut back in November and the fact she has been sent her for a first up assault is a very positive lead. For fourth, pick your own horse because it is that open behind the top two.
Written by Adam Page
