Some of Queensland’s most promising two-year-olds are set to clash in the Sunshine Coast Classic, a consolation for some that didn’t make it to the Magic Millions.
The $160,000 Sunshine Coast race, a week after Saturday’s $2 million Magic Millions won by Capitalist, is a target for those who didn’t qualify or were ineligible.
Trainer Stuart Kendrick is setting Charnley River for the race and is confident the step up to 1200m from his Sunshine Coast debut over 1000m on January 2 will suit him well.
“He is a lovely horse and a full brother to Group One winner Woorim,” Kendrick said.
“He has shown us a bit and beat my Magic Millions horse Rare Occurrence in a recent jump-out.”
“He should be improved by the run and the 1200 metres looks ideal for him.”
Charnley River’s dam Wabble has a history of producing smart horses with others beside Woorim including My Limit, Bribie, Kareiga and Rose of Woorim.
“It is a good family and Charnley River will hopefully live up to it,” Kenrick said.
Trainer Barry Lockwood has also pencilled in Golden Hill, who ran third at his first start, for the Sunshine Coast race.
“We ran out of time for the Millions and the Sunshine Coast looks a nice race for him,” Lockwood said.
Zendaye, who was an eye-catching debut fourth on Saturday at the Sunshine Coast, is also likely to back up.
Trainer Desleigh Forster has a big opinion of Zendaye who came from second last on the home turn.
“He is a nice type and can work with my better horses,” she said.
“Provided he recovers OK we will be going back there in a fortnight.”
Liam Birchley is also setting Heart Skipt A Beat for Saturday’s race after she missed a start in the Magic Millions.
“The 1200 metres should suit her better at this stage of her campaign,” Birchley said.
