Baby Wong fared best of the Vinery-sired starters when the barriers were drawn for the Magic Millions 2yo Classic RL on Tuesday morning.
Baby Wong (Press Statement) drew perfectly in barrier 6 for Saturday’s $2 million sales-related race on the Gold Coast. The fillies weren’t so lucky with Miss Hipstar (Star Turn) allocated 19 while You’ll Be Mist (Headwater) is only slightly better off in 14.
Scone-based Stephen Jones rates Baby Wong the best horse he’s ever trained and believes the colt can go in a maiden and emerge a millionaire on Saturday. “It’s a tough race but I think he’s right in it. To be honest, he’s had terrible luck in all three starts but hopefully it’s onwards and upwards from now on.
“He has the makings of a better three year-old. His breeding says as much and the penny hasn’t dropped with him but he’s a nice horse and the draw will suit Nash (Rawiller). He chased the ride and has been keeping a close eye on him all the way through.”
Baby Wong was bred by Gerry Harvey and Press Statement got him from unraced More Than Ready mare Spice Temple. Harvey returns with a Press Statement colt and two fillies through Baramul Stud at the Gold Coast Magic Millions Sale which starts at Noon on Tuesday.
Miss Hipstar has pleasantly surprised trainer Kelly Schweida with her progress this campaign but the draw wasn’t kind. “We’re just playing the cards we’ve got,” Schweida said. “She’s a big, tough filly and is pretty relaxed which has helped her get to this stage.”
Baby Wong is priced at $14 in TAB markets following the barrier draw. Miss Hipstar eased to $17 and You’ll Be Mist is the outsider of the trio at $31.
