Magic Time’s misfortune in the Kingsford Smith Cup hasn’t dampened trainer Grahame Begg’s optimism for the Stradbroke Handicap this Saturday.
Recalling the hurdles, Begg explained to racing.com, “We think the horse outside of her started abruptly, got on the outside of her plate, and buckled it really badly.”
Despite setbacks, he remained upbeat, noting, “Michael didn’t think she felt 100 per cent after that point, and then she got galloped on during the race, so she was in the wars on that occasion.”
Begg praised Magic Time’s versatility, highlighting, “She handles any going, she’s an all-rounder. She’s won on the synthetic as well, so it doesn’t matter to her.”
Emphasising her merit, he added, “That’s a good weight for a mare, but she’s a dual G1 winner so she deserves it I guess.”
With anticipation building for Saturday’s race, Begg anticipates a strong showing from the resilient mare.
“She was in the wars on that occasion & it was a very messy run race.”
Magic Time had a few excuses last time out, but she’s recovered well ahead of the G1 Stradbroke Handicap ⏰@Grahame_Begg pic.twitter.com/1MeVVbqkdB
— Racing.com (@Racing) June 10, 2024