The Snowden stable believes it not only has the horse to beat in the Magic Millions Classic but also the biggest danger to the odds-on favourite Capitalist.
The Peter and Paul Snowden-trained Capitalist has maintained odds-on favouritism for Saturday’s $2 million Magic Millions Classic (1200m) at the Gold Coast after coming up with barrier two in a capacity field of 16 plus five emergencies.
The unbeaten Capitalist is one of three runners in the race for Snowden Racing, with the father-and-son training team chasing their first Magic Millions Classic win at the first attempt.
Niccolance has drawn barrier nine while filly Mooshakissa has a wide draw in 18.
Giving his verdict on the Magic Millions barrier draw via his stable’s website, Paul Snowden described Capitalist’s marble as excellent, saying it would allow the colt to settle in the race while giving jockey Blake Shinn plenty of options.
“Couldn’t be happier with how Capitalist has come along so far; we think he’s pretty special,” Snowden said.
Niccolance was soundly beaten by Capitalist in the Wyong Magic Millions at his first start for the Snowdens but Paul Snowden expects he will also run a big race on Saturday.
He said drawing anywhere inside barrier nine in the Magic Millions was “priceless”.
Niccolance will come in three barriers if the emergencies don’t gain a start.
“I think Niccolance is the biggest danger to Capitalist and barrier nine gives Niccolance a top each-way chance, especially with James McDonald aboard,” Paul Snowden said.
The co-trainer admitted the wide draw was awkward for Mooshakissa but said if rain continues it could end up being the place to be.
“So we remain hopeful,” he said.
“She’s a classy filly and anything is possible, but Mark Zahra will have to be at his tactical best.”
Mooshakissa is at $101.
The Kelso Wood-trained colt Nikitas, who has barrier three, and unbeaten filly Zelady’s Night Out are on the second line of betting at $9.50.
The Tony Gollan-trained Zelady’s Night Out was $8 with TAB before coming up with the wide draw.
The Darren Weir-trained Sandown Guineas winner Mahuta is the $4.20 favourite in the Magic Millions Guineas but will need to overcome a wide barrier after coming up with gate 20 in the field of 16 plus five emergencies.
