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| Sumita Pawar |
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Mogo Magic, an exciting country sprinter, has solidified his position as a serious contender for the Kosciuszko by showcasing his speed, determination, and elegance in a scintillating performance in the TAB Highway Handicap at Rosehill, extending his unbeaten streak to four races.
Despite carrying a heavy weight of 60kg and facing more experienced competitors, Mogo Magic, showed resilience in the lead. He managed to distance himself from his rivals at the top of the straight and ultimately triumphed by 1-1/4 lengths over Salire, with Tai Lung finishing third.
Despite Mogo Magic's victories in the country and Highway Handicap grade, the 3YO has yet to taste defeat in his four starts, continuously surpassing expectations according to trainer Scott Collings.
A Victorious Display Of Speed
“It was great to see him win like that today. They served it up to him early and he was still good enough to beat them with 60 kilos,” Collings said.
“It’s the first time anything has got close to eye-balling him and they were giving it to him a long way from home.
“He’s very exciting. He’d be the best horse I’ve ever had.”
Collings has plans to enter Mogo Magic in The Kosciuszko (1200m) at Randwick.
Mogo Magic's latest victory came at a timely moment, as tickets for the sweepstake went on sale on Saturday, showcasing his ability to excel even at distances of at least 1100 meters.
“Whether we get a slot or not, who knows, but that’s our target,” Collings said.
“We’ll sit down with the owners and work out a plan of attack and what we think is the best way to get to the Kosciuszko.
“He’s still got to step up a bit, but this horse has got brilliant speed and he’s proven that today with 60 kilos.”
Mogo Magic's journey has been significantly influenced by Nick Heywood, who has ridden him in three out of his four victories, including the recent Highway Handicap (1100m) on Saturday.
He said the gelding did a good job to absorb the early pressure and felt 1200m would be “right up his alley”.
“The times he has shown at home, Group horses are doing those times,” Heywood said.
“I’m not saying he’s one yet, but if he keeps going the way he’s going, I know it’s a Highway but the times he is showing are better than a Highway.
“He’s still got a lot of improvement left.”