Magic Consol has had three previous attempts at 2000m
Horsham trainer Paul Preusker is confident the in-form Magic Consol has the miles in his legs to contest a 2000m-handicap at Flemington.
Magic Consol has had three previous attempts at Saturday’s journey, finishing in the placings at his two most recent tries.
One was on soft ground in July last year when he finished second to Killarney Kid before following up with a third placing at Caulfield during the final city meeting of the 2015/16 racing season.
Magic Consol’s past three starts have produced a win at Moonee Valley in early June before close second placings at Moonee Valley and Caulfield.
Craig Williams, who has ridden Magic Consol in those three races has the ride again on Saturday.
Preusker said Magic Consol was getting to the 2000 metres on Saturday earlier in his preparation this time around and he expected the gelding to run well.
“I reckon he’ll be spot-on for the job,” Preusker said.
“We’ve got to 2000 metres early in the preparation rather than with too many runs under the belt.
“Last year he had a bit too much racing to be at his best getting to this trip.
“I think this time it’s perfect.”
Preusker doesn’t want to see too much rain ahead of Saturday’s race.
He said Magic Consol doesn’t perform at his best on a track too wet.
The track was rated in the good range on Tuesday with showers forecast for the remainder of the week.
“I’m not sure what Melbourne’s weather is doing but I don’t want to see a heavy eight track,” Preusker said.
“A little bit of give would be all right. He just doesn’t want it too wet.
“A firm track doesn’t worry this horse.”
Preusker said he had not had to do a great deal with Magic Consol since his latest race saying he was an old horse who basically trained himself.
The trainer said stablemates Bling Dynasty and Diamond Duke, entered for the benchmark 78 race over 1600m, would remain at his Horsham stables on Saturday.
