Peter and Paul Snowden are building an enviable team for the $2 million Magic Millions Classic and they are looking to Snapback to bolster it further when he makes his debut at Randwick.
The training partners already have Breeders’ Plate winner and race favourite Empire Of Japan, last week’s Brisbane winner Godfather and Magic Millions Wyong 2YO Classic victor Sovereign Fund on target for the Gold Coast feature.
Snapback is on a mission to prove his worthiness for a spot on the wagon in the NJT Supports Kate Nipperess Handicap (1100m) on Saturday and Peter Snowden says all the early signs suggest the Snitzel colt is up to the challenge.
“He’s a nice horse, his trials have been solid, his work has been good,” Snowden said.
“There is no hiding them now. We’re getting too close to be working things out.
“He needs to be winning on Saturday for us to be thinking about going to the Gold Coast.”
A brother to stakes winner Wee Nessy, Snapback won his first trial in September but was put away after going shin sore, returning to post another impressive trial victory at Canterbury last month.
Snowden says the youngster has a good attitude and shapes as a readymade two-year-old.
“He is just a touch fresh at the moment but he has got a good nature about him and that’s always a good sign with two-year-olds, to have a good attitude in their work,” he said.
“He seems a natural two-year-old.”
Team Snowden has also accepted with Achlys, who made a promising debut when closing late for fourth in the Gimcrack Stakes (1000m).
However, the filly is not a definite starter with the trainers also considering a race in Brisbane next week.
“I just think she is a prep away so I’m not sure if we run her here or next week in Brisbane,” Snowden said.
“She is definitely a nice filly with talent and we will be hearing more about her later on.”
Champion jockey James Mcdonaldhas the ride on Snapback, who is well found in early markets as a $1.80 favourite with the Chris Waller-trained Lazzago ($4), another first starter who has shaped well at the trials, considered his main threat.
