Open Secret set for the Inglis Millennium

Trainer John Thompson headed to Randwick with debutante Open Secret, hoping to secure enough prize money to qualify for the Inglis Millennium (1100m), but he walked away with more than he bargained for. The filly not only won but also defeated $1.75 million colt United States in the process.

Thompson, known for giving his two-year-olds two trials before their race debut, adjusted his usual approach to target the $2 million Inglis Millennium in two weeks’ time. Open Secret’s victory in Saturday’s The Agency Real Estate Handicap (1000m) validated that decision.

“Normally, we’d give them another trial, but with her eligibility for the Inglis race, we decided to use today as a second trial and hoped to pick up some prize money,” Thompson explained.

“Class takes you a long way, and she’s shown that from day one. I didn’t expect her to lead today—I thought the others would be too quick for her. But natural talent carried her through; two-year-olds often surprise you.”

Starting at $11 with Zac Lloyd aboard, Open Secret set the pace and held off a strong late challenge from United States ($3.70 favorite) to win by a short head. Nordic Viking ($20) also closed late, finishing another long head behind in third.

The filly, by first-season sire King’s Legacy, was purchased for $150,000. Thompson spotted her based on her physical type, drawing from his knowledge of her family, as he also trains her half-sister, Hellaine.

“When I saw her at the sale, I could’ve sworn I was looking at a colt,” Thompson said. “I can’t afford the I Am Invincibles of the world, so I have to buy on type, and she was a standout. Knowing her family was a bonus and gave me more confidence.”

Open Secret is the second promising two-year-old Thompson has unveiled this season, following Bel Merci, the Gimcrack Stakes winner. Open Secret actually beat Bel Merci in a recent trial, underscoring her quality. Bel Merci, meanwhile, is preparing to launch her Golden Slipper campaign in the Silver Slipper (1100m) on February 22.

Zac Lloyd praised Open Secret for her ability to rise to the occasion. “I wasn’t sure if today might come too soon for her,” he admitted. “I would’ve preferred one more trial to fine-tune a few small details, but that’s why John trains them, and I ride them. She did a fantastic job.”

Meanwhile, United States showed his potential, despite the short distance, according to trainer Chris Waller. The colt settled worse than midfield and had to navigate traffic in the straight before launching a late surge.

“He was just half a step slow out of the gates, which left him playing catch-up,” Waller said. “He had to find clear running, and by the time he did, the race was gone. Still, 1000m is probably a touch too short for him.”