Racing Twitter wrap: Weekend of wizardry as Magics dominate
IN what may be dubbed the ‘weekend of magic’ in years to come, two absolute superstars of the track lived up to expectations across a massive two days of racing.
The first destroyed an incredibly strong field at Caulfield on Saturday, while the other put on a masterclass for the ages in Hong Kong.
Let’s take a look back at the wizardry.
Vega Magic burns one of the best Memsie Stakes fields ever
Five-year-old gelding Vega Magic confirmed its status as one of Australia’s must-watch horses over the spring after it hammered the field to take out the Group One Memsie Stakes in dominating fashion.
MAGIC HAPPENS! Vega Magic dominates out in front to land the first Group 1 of the season, the @karakachat Memsie Stakes. pic.twitter.com/j7Y0KeXzyq
— Racing.com (@Racing) September 2, 2017
The Hayes and Dabernig sprinter stormed to the front and was never headed, putting together what could be the best performance of the 2017/18 season in the opening group one race of the year.
One astute punter picked the speed map prior to the race after regular front-runner Charmed Harmony was scratched early in the day.
Should be a massive bonus now for Vega Magic given Charmed Harmony is scratched. Gets a soft lead unless something forces the isssue.
— BrisburghPhil (@BrisburghPhil) September 2, 2017
It was the second group one victory of the horse’s career after it took out the Goodwood Stakes back in May.
Let's not forget the amazing job the Caseys did initially with the now 2 x G1 winner Vega Magic in WA. Their team deserve a lot of credit! pic.twitter.com/f3JXba0tb0
— Marc Ohlmus (@marcohlmus) September 2, 2017
The win also extended Vega Magic’s record to an incredible 12 successes from 17 attempts, and the connections are now looking towards The Everest for the champion sprinter.
Wally Daly is keen to see Vega Magic fly the flag for WA in The Everest. He says he will wait to hear from slot holders
— Jay Rooney (@Jay_Rooney) September 3, 2017
The Memsie Stakes victory saw Vega Magic firm from $8 onto the second line of Everest betting ($5) at Ladbrokes.com.au.
One Twitter user believes the five-year-old could sit at the top of the short-course pile at the end of spring.
Will Vega Magic become the best sprinter in the land this prep? Thoughts?
— Trent Masenhelder (@tmase04) September 3, 2017
Who are we to argue?
The Magic Man dazzles in Hong Kong on Sunday
After a big weekend on the punt, many punters love to settle in for a Sunday afternoon in Hong Kong – especially if Joao Moreira is taking to the saddle.
Those chasing the ‘Magic Man’ were handsomely rewarded as the superstar hoop took out the opening five races on the 10-event card at Sha Tin.
Five from five. Moreira masterclass.
— Andrew Hawkins (@AndrewNJHawkins) September 3, 2017
That’s right – each of the first five races were won by Moreira-piloted horses.
Moreira is a freak!
— Jordy Matthews (@racingjordy) September 3, 2017
Casual fans can question just how influential a jockey can be on a horse, but the well-rated ride in the second aboard Je Pense highlights just how important a good hoop can be.
Jumping as a $5.30 elect at Ladbrokes.com.au, the champion jockey delivered a perfectly timed run to storm over the top of the field.
Two races, two winners for Joao Moreira. Je Pense obliges in the second. #HKracing pic.twitter.com/a3a3EZMlXr
— HKJC Racing (@HKJC_Racing) September 3, 2017
It is incredible to think that some people – including racing experts – elect to take on the great man from time-to-time, but we say do so at your own peril.
Egg. Face. Splat.
Not the first time Joao Moreira has made me look a fool, and won't be the last time either! #HKRacing https://t.co/ZrAxkcFDa4
— Andrew Hawkins (@AndrewNJHawkins) September 3, 2017
If anyone has made a better start to a racing season anywhere in the world we would like to hear it, because that was one of the best individual riding performances in a very long time.
Yourthewonforme gives Joao Moreira his fifth win from five races, and the first training win for Frankie Lor with his first starter. pic.twitter.com/61cPgkTgN4
— HKJC Racing (@HKJC_Racing) September 3, 2017
Never, ever doubt the ‘Magic Man’.