Tigroni edging closer to 2026 Magic Millions Classic goal

An unexpected change of course could yet pay dividends for Tigroni as she edges closer to a start in the Magic Millions Classic.

The filly had originally been aimed at a midweek debut last month with a view towards the Magic Millions 2YO Classic qualifier at Wyong on December 10.

When that planned starting point was scrapped due to a lack of runners, Tigroni instead debuted at Rosehill on November 29, where she performed admirably to finish second behind Fireball.

Her absence from Wyong allowed Paradoxium to dominate the race and surge to the top of Magic Millions betting.

Co-trainer Tom Charlton said the missed opportunity may not be all bad.

“It was a bit frustrating, but you never know, maybe it will end up for the best,” Charlton said.

“It was a good race, that Wyong race, and with the cards we have been dealt, we’re pretty happy with how everything has unfolded.”

Tigroni was forced to cover extra ground on debut after drawing wide but still showed plenty of resolve, going down by just a length.

She has again drawn awkwardly, landing barrier nine in Saturday’s Spelling at Coolmore Mt White Handicap (1100m) at Randwick.

The assignment is vital if she is to earn the prizemoney required to gain a start in the Magic Millions Classic (1200m) at the Gold Coast on January 17.

“She’s had a week off since that run where she was excellent. Hopefully she can break into the Magic Millions,” Charlton said.

“To our eyes, she looks like she has come on a bit from that experience and she’s in a good headspace so she’s a chance.”

Zac Lloyd stays aboard after steering Tigroni on debut.

Magic Millions markets and Randwick odds are available through the Australian betting sites list.