Ozi Choice may have earned himself a trip to the upcoming rich Gold Coast meeting after recording an all-the-way victory at Sandown.
Success in Saturday’s Ladbrokes Info Hub Handicap (1400m) was the third straight victory for the five-year-old and now trainer Darren Weir is eyeing the $1 million Magic Millions Cup (1400m) at the Gold Coast on January 13.
Ridden by apprentice Ben Thompson, Ozi Choice was sent out the $2.05 favourite before scoring a 2-3/4 length win from Lite’n In My Veins ($9) with Zebrinz ($31) three lengths away third.
Weir won the Magic Millions Cup in 2016 with Lucky Hussler who is set to again run in the race.
“It’s a quality handicap up there and Lucky Hussler’s in the race,” Weir said.
“Ozi Choice is going to get in with 54 kilos and he might give them something to chase.
“He was again well weighted today and has a great racing style, especially when you’re carrying that weight.
“He was never going to get beaten today.”
Weir said the secret to Ozi Choice’s victories at Caulfield and Sandown was he had carried 52.5kg following the claim of Thompson.
“If he had 56kg up that hill today, who knows,” Weir said.
“It brings them back, but watching him after the line today, he was great.”
The victory brought up a double for Thompson who had earlier scored on Light Romance in the Ladbrokes Cash In Handicap.
Thompson said Ozi Choice was relishing his racing adding it was exciting to be getting the support from Weir.
“It’s been a big effort by the horse and the team,” Thompson said.
“He’s won three in a row in town now, so all credit to the horse and the team at home.”
Thompson said he allowed Ozi Choice to roll along in front early but importantly was able to relax at a vital stage.
“He doesn’t give you the biggest kick in the world but he can hold a good gallop for three furlongs,” Thompson said.
“Not many horses can do that and with no weight on his back he was too dominant.”
