Magicdollar Does It Again At Newcastle
It was only a month ago that Magicdollar secured his first career win, giving connections a day to remember. Thankfully they didn’t have to wait long for win number two as Magicdollar took the 1m talkSPORT Powered by Fans Handicap at Newcastle.
Patience and stepping up in trip had proved the key to success for Magicdollar shedding his maiden stage. The 3yo had found himself in rear that day but travelled strongly before quickening up well to take the win. Unfortunately those tactics do rely on a strong pace which did not happen next time out. Despite that he backed up the win with a good second placed effort.
There was only seven runners set to line up so it would be interesting to see if the race would be run to suit. Typically Magicdollar was slowly away but Tome (Eaves) was happy to be patient, settling at the rear of the field. Initially it looked as though the pace could be steady but the leaders then kicked on down the centre of the track.
Magicdollar happily travelled in rear, latching on to the main group of runners down the centre of the track. Watching on, Tom would be left to play his hand as late as possible. The field quickly moved through halfway and little separated first to last.
It had been a decent gallop but the field then got racing a long way from home. This suited Magicdollar as the pace increased from the 3f marker. The field now split and they were spread across the track as they threw their hat into the fight. Tom was waiting patiently as he angled out form behind horses, aiming his run towards the stands side.
Magicdollar cruised into contention inside the 2f marker and moved closer to the fore. Tom gave him the slightest nudge and the gelding responded, passing a couple of rivals. Timing was now crucial with Magicdollar travelling powerfully on the bridle. Not wanting to get there too soon, Tom was trying to keep hold of his mount for as long as possible.
Moving into the final furlong, Tom now pressed the button and Magicdollar responded by sweeping past his rivals. Taking the lead he was now asked for maximum, effort but the long time leader was proving very game, battling back. With just 100 yards to run Magicdollar held a neck advantage but Tom had to get a little more serious in the saddle. As his rival rallied, it forced Magic to respond and that. is exactly what he did. Finding more in the closing stages, Magicdollar earned a 1/2 length victory in comfortable fashion.
2023 has provided a great start to the year for Magicdollar and he looks the type who can continue improving. The new tactics and trip have helped Magicdollar thrive. It seems as though he only does enough when he hits the front so the winning margins are probably not doing his performance justice. He does enjoy a really strong gallop to aim at which is a positive as a better grade of race might well bring out more improvement. Having only won by a small margin, the handicapper shouldn’t be too harsh and a similar contest could well be next.