Houtzen new Magic Millions favourite after Gold Coast romp
HOUTZEN stamped its authority at the Gold Coast on Saturday with an all-the-way win and it’s now the new Magic Millions favourite.
The Toby Edmonds-trained filly was the $1.30 chance at Palmerbet.com.au after an effortless victory on debut and it made short work of its rivals again.
Winning jockey Jeff Lloyd stated earlier this week that Houtzen could run on the outside rail and still win – with that confidence showing up on race day with a class record win by 4.75 lengths.
Edmonds said he will wait until Sunday morning before declaring Houtzen a genuine Magic Millions contender, but the bookmakers are confident and have set the filly at $3.50.
“We will make certain she eats up and that everything is right. But if that is OK she will give us a great chance in the Classic,” Edmonds said.
“She had to stand in the barriers a while after another runner played up but she is a professional filly.”
The win secured Houtzen a start in the 2YO Classic and it also made sure it didn’t have to defy a strong trend. No runner has won the Magic Millions 2YO Classic at their second race day start, so with that run under its belt, Houtzen looks a great winning hope.
Current second favourite From Within ($4.50 at Sportsbet) had a pleasing trial at Rosehill on Friday and trainer Chris Waller is confident it will be running on the Gold Coast next week.
“She galloped this morning at Rosehill over 800m and settled nicely in behind stable mate Religify,” Waller said.
“She was asked to improve from the 400m mark and quickened stylishly pleasing rider Hugh Bowman.
“Hugh was happy with how she felt and her turn of foot. She may have another gallop on Tuesday if required and a final decision will be made on Tuesday morning but at this stage we are confident that she will race in the Magic Millions.”