Trainer Michael Nolan’s mind immediately turned to the rich Magic Millions carnival in January when his star galloper Jumbo Prince made a successful return on Saturday.
Jumbo Prince was having his first start since finishing third in the Group One Queensland Derby (2200m) when he burst through a pack of horses to win the Suez Recycling and Recovery Handicap (1200m) at Doomben.
“We needed a bit of luck because he was locked way on the fence around the turn. But Michael (jockey Cahill) got the break and you saw how well he can finish,” Nolan said.
“Jumbo Prince has been great for us as he cost only $8000 and that takes him over $500,000 in prize money. But more importantly he is so honest.
“He can sprint well fresh and then hold that form for the campaign.”
Jumbo Prince will have his next start in a fortnight at Doomben and then be aimed at some of the Brisbane 1600m feature races such as the Bernborough Handicap in December.
“It will then be on to the Magic Millions Cup. He will give them something to beat as he has won at the 1800m at the Gold Coast,” Nolan said.
Veteran Jeff Lloyd confirmed his rating as the jockey to beat in this season’s Brisbane premiership with four winners.
Lloyd followed his double at Ipswich on Wednesday with clever performances to win on Punishing, Perplexity ($4.80), Tisani Tomso ($4.60) and NSW galloper Darci’s Affair.
The former South African, who has ridden winners in seven countries, is now equal leader on the premiership ladder with 24 winners.
Trainer Chris Munce told Lloyd to make the Tox Free Handicap (2000m) a genuine staying test and it paid off when Perplexity scored a solid win.
After a muddling early pace which saw four different leaders, Lloyd took off on Perplexity who then outstayed the field to beat Highly Gentle ($6.50) by 1-1/4 lengths.
