Victorian trainer Grahame Begg is optimistic about Magic Time’s chances at the upcoming All Aged Stakes at Randwick. Begg believes that a wider draw may just be the key to securing a back-to-back victory for the mare, a feat not achieved since the early 1990s. The All Aged Stakes, along with the Champagne Stakes, marks the culmination of the Sydney autumn carnival.
Magic Time, a five-year-old mare owned by Yulong, clinched victory in the All Aged Stakes last year on a heavy track. This season, she made a strong start by winning the Expressway Stakes over 1200m on a Good 4 track. Despite finishing third in the Canterbury Stakes and sixth in the TJ Smith Stakes, Begg remains confident in her abilities.
Begg expressed contentment with the draw in barrier seven for the upcoming race, seeing it as a favorable position for Magic Time. He emphasized the importance of riding her out of her comfort zone to secure a good position early in the race. With Jordan Childs set to ride her again, Begg is hopeful for a strong performance.
Despite being priced at $12 by Sportsbet, Begg remains unfazed, pointing out the minimal gap between Magic Time and some of the top horses in recent races. He acknowledged the strength of the competition but remains focused on his horse’s capabilities and training leading up to the event.
Initially hoping for wet tracks, Begg now anticipates a dry surface for Magic Time on race day. He remains unperturbed by this change, citing her previous success on a Good 3 track during the 2023 Rupert Clarke Stakes at Caulfield. Begg’s confidence in Magic Time’s adaptability on different track conditions is unwavering.
Meanwhile, in other racing news, Paul Snowden has made a notable start as a solo trainer with Lunaite, securing a second-place finish at Wyong. Paul, who previously partnered with his father Peter, has embarked on this new venture with promising results, showcasing his expertise in the racing industry.
As the racing season progresses, trainers like Begg and Snowden continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come their way, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability required in the competitive world of horse racing.