Cranbourne-based trainer Clinton McDonald is rounding off a stellar 2024 with a strong chance in Saturday’s $3 million Magic Millions Sunlight at the Gold Coast, where his filly Vestas is among the favourites.
Vestas, a daughter of Toronado, enters the race at $8 with Ladbrokes following an impressive debut win at Cranbourne and a second in the Group 3 Red Roses Stakes.
Despite an unlucky run on VRC Oaks Day, McDonald is confident in her form.
“She trialled up at the Gold Coast last Tuesday and trialled beautifully,” McDonald told racing.com.
“She’s in great order and I think she’ll give it one hell of a shake.”
The race caps a standout year for McDonald, who celebrated Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes glory with Hayasugi and achieved a remarkable 32.7% strike rate from 17 winners.
“It’s been an amazing year,” he said.
With a promising young stable, McDonald is poised to carry his momentum into 2025.