Zip Lock’s in 2026 Magic Millions Classic start
The loss of Cool Archie from Magic Millions 2YO Classic calculations has been quickly offset for Chris and Corey Munce with Zip Lock emerging as a genuine contender.
Once a double-figure chance for the $3 million January 17 feature, Zip Lock has tightened to $7 after landing the Group 3 B.J. McLachlan Stakes (1200m) at Eagle Farm.
Returning from a six-week freshen following a debut victory, Zip Lock ($3.20) was too strong for Tornado Valley ($1.80F), who endured a tough three-wide trip from just off midfield.
“Credit to the horse after that freshen-up,” Chris Munce said.
“He had the trial the other day and he improved enormously off it. I guess we head to the Millions now.
“I said to owners that I wasn’t going to put a lot of emphasis on the Magic Millions because I had a lot of time for him.
“I thought he was going to be a winter two-year-old and a lovely three-year-old.”
Munce also praised jockey Justin Huxtable, who was aboard for the Group success.
“I think this was good for Justin,” Munce said.
“He’s been with our stable for a long time and he is a tall lad and he doesn’t ride too many bad ones.”
Bought for $160,000 at the 2025 Gold Coast Yearling Sale, Zip Lock now follows a proven pathway taken by Coolangatta and Storm Boy, both winners of this race before claiming Magic Millions honours.
Tornado Valley drifted to $9 for the 2026 Magic Millions following the loss, while Bjorn Baker’s Warwoven continues to top markets at $3.
Latest Magic Millions odds and betting updates can be viewed via the Australian betting sites list.
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