Waller finds loophole with former Kiwi apprentice
LEE Magorrian isn’t a well-known name in Australian racing, but he has the potential to become Chris Waller’s next young apprentice.
Magorrian has finished his apprenticeship in New Zealand where he rode 96 career wins for just over $1.5 million in earnings. The 22-year-old has come to Sydney to ride for Chris Waller and due to a loophole, he’s able to use a 3kg claim.
“He’s outridden his claim in New Zealand but because not all New Zealand races are classed as metropolitan races we’ve found a loophole that he can, within the rules, ride with a three kilo allowance,” Waller said.
“That’s a massive, massive thing. It’s like six ratings points, it’s basically like dropping a horse in grade so it’s a big plus.”
Magorrian showed good skill in New Zealand, but he did occur 18 suspensions during his time, but Waller has entrusted the Irish-born rider with three rides at Rosehill on Saturday.
He will again partner Wine Tales in the Club Marconi Amartrice Fund Handicap which flashed home for second last start at Rosehill.
“Her first-up run for Lee Magorrian was fantastic,” Waller said.
“Obviously apprentices have a claim because they’re not quite as effective as senior riders and they do make mistakes.
“Taking that into consideration I think it gives Wine Tales a great chance to run well as she did first-up.”
Magorrian will also ride Trafalgar which is unbeaten in two starts fresh and is currently $6 at CrownBet to win the Schweppes Mix & Serve Handicap.
“He was en route to the Queensland Derby but he had a minor setback,” Waller said. “His first trial was only fair, his second trail was very good.
“1500 metres first-up, basically after eight months (off) is not easy but don’t underestimate him, he’s a very good horse and one to follow this preparation.”
The duo combine in the #Theraces Benchmark R84 Handicap with Redoutable Heart hasn’t raced since October of last year.
“Same boat as Trafalgar in fact he’s had longer out – not raced since October last year,” Waller said. “He’s trialled very well and he’s that type of horse.
“He does things quite seriously and he puts in and for that reason he could come to hand a bit quicker but as a rule you normally see these horses need three, possibly four runs before reaching their match fitness which they lose when having a long time off.
“Certainly he’s as fit as hands can make him and whatever he does on Saturday, he’ll improve from.”