Warwoven has emerged as another legitimate Magic Millions Classic contender after the Bjorn Baker-trained colt delivered a commanding debut performance at Randwick.
Starting a $3.40 chance, Warwoven settled midfield under Rachel King before producing a sharp sprint in the home straight to score by 2-1/4 lengths over Norman’s Cay ($5.50), with Hardanger ($13) close up in third.
Odds-on elect Shiki rolled to the front but weakened late, finishing fourth, 2-3/4 lengths from the winner.
Baker said the result exceeded expectations given Warwoven’s limited race-day preparation and the sharp nature of the 1000-metre assignment.
“I thought it was a big ask,” Baker said.
“He only had the one trial, so I was questioning that, whether he was quite fit enough and whether the 1000-metres was going to be too sharp for him. So absolutely thrilled.”
The win adds further depth to Baker’s Magic Millions Classic (1200m) team, which already features favourite Paradoxium ($3.50), with Warwoven now quoted at $6 alongside The Debut winner Lumbini.
With sufficient prizemoney now secured, Warwoven is guaranteed a place in the Magic Millions Classic field, although Baker may opt to give him another run if needed.
“I know going to 1100 and 1200 in the Magic Millions he is going to be better suited, so very exciting,” he said.
King revealed the colt’s promise has influenced her riding schedule, delaying her return to Japan.
“He’s one of the main reasons why I’m not going back to Japan until after the Magic Millions and then I’ll be back a month before the Golden Slipper too,” King said.
“The first time I sat on him, it was like riding an old five-year-old gelding around the track.
“He has been a beautiful horse the whole way through, but he’s been quite immature mentally, a bit on the dopey side at times.
“He’s got the kindest attitude, but he’s got that feeling of class about him as well.”
Clark took a forgiving view of Shiki’s effort, saying the filly was entitled to tire after racing keenly first-up since her Gimcrack Stakes (1000m) victory.
“She was just a bit free through the middle stages, which she can be,” Clark said.
“She has got to harness that a little bit. With the run under her belt, hopefully that will settle her down.
“She will be alright. She will bounce back.”
Punters tracking Warwoven’s Magic Millions chances can compare odds at Just Horse Racing’s betting guide.
