Tony Gollan admits I’m A Rippa isn’t the best horse he has trained but is thrilled the gelding could share some of the Magic Millions spotlight at the Gold Coast.
Bought for $55,000 as a yearling, I’m A Rippa took his prize money to $808,200 when he led all the way to win Saturday’s Magic Millions QTIS Open Handicap (1300m).
I’m A Rippa was backed from $8.50 to $6 and scored by a long neck from Secret Trail ($11) with She’s Miss Devine ($13) a length away third.
“He’s not the best horse I’ve trained but he’s a real tough little fella who makes his own luck in a race and gives his all,” Gollan said.
“To buy a Queensland horse and win a million dollar race is just phenomenal. He didn’t cost a lot of money and we’ve been able to live the dream and come back and win a race like this.”
Gollan has a long-range plan to aim I’m A Rippa at feature sprint races in Brisbane next summer.
“He’s improved every preparation and I said to the owners he can measure up to the summer carnival next season because he’s so hard to get past,” he said.
I’m A Rippa was ridden by Group One-winning jockey Stephen Baster who has enjoyed a stellar season including a win in the Group One VRC Oaks aboard Pinot for Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott.
“I’m having a fantastic year. Everything seems to be falling into place and the horses seem to keep running for me,” Baster said.
