Caloundra trainer David Vandyke declared he had unfinished business to settle after Alligator Blood completed his lead up to the $2 million Magic Millions Guineas with an easy win at Eagle Farm.
Alligator Blood ($1.35 fav) had the run of the race just off the pace and was unextended to beat Profit ($11) by two lengths with a short head to Eleven Eleven ($41) in the Group Three Vo Rogue Plate (1400m) on Saturday.
The gelding now heads to the Guineas on January 11, when he will start a very short favourite.
Vandyke said he wouldn’t be resting before the Millions and was expecting some sleepless nights.
“The last time we were in a million dollar race we got grabbed on the line. We have plenty of unfinished business to settle in the Magic Millions Guineas,” Vandyke said.
“I said before the race that he was ready to run his career-best effort. He was unextended here and I couldn’t have him any better in the Millions lead up.”
“This horse has never been in a dog fight so I don’t know what he can find under pressure. Hopefully, we won’t need it in a fortnight.”
Jockey Ryan Maloney said Alligator Blood had plenty up his sleeve and was never in any danger.
Alligator Blood has now won seven of his eight starts with his only defeat a nose decision in the Caulfield Guineas in the spring.
Profit earned $55,000 for running second, which should get him into the Magic Millions Guineas field.
“He wouldn’t have beaten the winner but he should have finished a bit closer after getting a bump at the 300m,” trainer Chris Anderson said.
Glen Boss, who rode Profit, said the gelding did a good job to finish second and would be improved.
Second favourite Diamond Thunder ($4.60) got along way back but ran on well for fourth.
“They went too slow for him early and I think blinkers will help next time,” jockey Josh Parr said.
