Ef Troop drew barrier 18 in the Magic Millions Classic
Trainer Tony Gollan is taking positives from Ef Troop’s wide barrier in the $2 million Magic Millions Classic at the Gold Coast.
The colt drew 18 in the field of 16 plus five emergencies and will start from 13 if none of the reserves get a start on Saturday.
Gollan said Ef Troop should be out of trouble at the start from out wide on the track.
“He won’t be in the barriers for too long drawn out there,” Gollan said.
“He isn’t brilliant out of the barrier but he reaches top speed quickly and can get that giant stride going,” Gollan said.
“I suppose he could be a bit closer in but really I think it is no disaster.”
Gollan’s other runner Outback Barbie drew barrier six in the 1200m-race which Gollan thought would be perfect for her.
“There is a lot of pace outside her and as long as she can avoid early trouble she will sit behind the pace and be strong at the finish.”
Tony McEvoy was also content with Sunlight’s barrier 15 and she will probably start from barrier 12.
“It is an OK barrier for her as she should be out of trouble at the start. Ef Troop will have to go forward and we will probably be able to sit on him,” McEvoy said.
“It is a always high pressure race and my filly has had two wins and a trial up here. She is ready to go.”
Both Ef Troop and Sunlight eased from $4 equal favouritism to $4.60 after the draw with Newcastle speedster Jonker re-assuming his position at the head of the market at $4.20 after drawing three.
The Stuart Kendrick-trained Fullazaboot, a $26 chance, drew the outside barrier.
“It can’t get any worse than that. But the funny thing is barrier 16 has won a few Millions and if we can get pace early he can get cover,” Kendrick said.
