2026 Magic Millions Classic goal still in reach for Tulloch Lodge filly
Despite an unplaced effort at Randwick, Adrian Bott insists Shiki remains firmly on course for the Magic Millions Classic at the Gold Coast.
The two-year-old, who edged out her rivals in the Gimcrack Stakes (1000m) earlier in the spring, had been prominent in early Magic Millions markets before drifting to $8 after Saturday’s TAB Plate (1000m).
Shiki rolled to the front and travelled strongly before kicking clear on the turn, but she was unable to sustain the effort and finished fourth, 2-3/4 lengths behind Warwoven.
Bott said the performance was no cause for alarm and confirmed plans remain unchanged.
“I haven’t lost faith off the back of (Saturday),” Bott said.
“I think she is the right horse to take up there. The benefit is she’s qualified, so we were under no pressure, and it was a nice starting point for her.”
The trainer had flagged prior to the race that Shiki would likely improve for the outing, with her peak condition still to come.
Another run on the Gold Coast is on the cards and Bott believes further education will allow the filly to show her best.
“She is a very fast filly and has always been that way. I just want to see her harness her speed, which she can do,” he said.
“She was in need of that run, and we’ve got a few things to work on which we’re aware of.
“A different race set-up for her will be beneficial because she can be adaptable.”
While Shiki eased in the betting, Warwoven shortened to $6, joining Lumbini on the second line of Magic Millions markets.
Lumbini announced herself with a dominant win in The Debut (1000m) at the Gold Coast and Bott said she too would have another run before the Classic.
“She was excellent, and she is Magic Millions-bound,” he said.
“She will probably run again in two weeks’ time and then head there.”
Magic Millions Wyong 2YO Classic winner Paradoxium remains the $3.50 favourite and is likely to line up in the B J McLachlan Stakes (1200m) next weekend.
All Magic Millions betting markets and lead-up form can be followed via the Australian betting sites list.
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