The 2024 Magic Millions 3YO Guineas was a race defined by both high drama and an impressive performance by the eventual Robert Heathcote-trained winning filly Abounding.

2024 Magic Millions 3YO Guineas winner Abounding was too good for the boys after a lengthy delay at the Gold Coast. Photo: Steve Hart.

After a near-tragic incident involving John O’Shea’s promising runner Sydney Bowler who reared in the barriers and became trapped, the event was delayed for over an hour, leaving hearts racing both on and off the track. Thankfully, the gelding escaped serious injury and was transported to the equine hospital for recovery.

Once competition resumed, it was Heathcote’s outstanding filly Abounding ($7) who stole the show. The classy Rich Enuff daughter, kept fresh for this $3 million feature after a last-start Black-Type win in December, displayed her talent with a powerful late charge under jockey Martin Harley.

Heathcote’s strategy of giving Abounding a month between runs paid off handsomely, as Harley guided the $175,000 purchase to an impressive victory.

“We made that call not to run her two weeks ago,” the elated trainer declared, citing her lack of experience going beyond 1400m and his desire to give her optimal preparation.

The win marked Heathcote’s third Magic Millions Day victory on the Gold Coast.

He heaped praise on his “cranky” champion in the making, stating, “She’s got a lot of crankiness in her and I think that’s what makes her a really special filly.”

While the margin of victory was narrow, Abounding’s dominance in the final furlong was undeniable.

Peter & Paul Snowden’s 30/1 outsider Sovereign Fund, ridden with panache by Tommy Berry, finished strong for second, just a head behind the winner. Gary Portelli’s 40/1 roughie Flying Trapeze also impressed, taking third in a photo finish to add further value to the Magic Millions Guineas trifecta.

This victory secures Abounding not only a place in the hearts of racing fans, but also a guaranteed start in Melbourne’s 2024 All-Star Mile at Caulfield on March 16.

With her talent and fighting spirit on display, the future looks bright for this rising star of the Australian racing scene.

2024 Magic Millions 3YO Guineas Results 

Table Credit: Racing Australia.

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