Confident co-trainer Paul Snowden has declared that he believes Niccolance is the main danger to his fancied stablemate Capitalist in the 2016 Magic Millions Classic at the Gold Coast on Saturday.
James McDonald has been booked to ride Niccolance in the 2016 Magic Millions Classic. Photo by: Race Horse Photos Australia
Niccolance was purchased by Kevin Moses at the Magic Millions Yearling Sale before he moved to the stable of Jim and Greg Lee and he impressed in two barrier trials at Royal Randwick on September 21 and Warwick Farm on November 19 before he made his racing debut with a second place finish behind the talented Astern in the Surf Meets Turf Plate (1000m) at Royal Randwick on December 5.
The Nicconi colt was transferred to Team Snowden following that performance and he made his debut for his new stable with another credible effort behind Capitalist in the Wyong Magic Millions Classic (1100m) on December 17.
Snowden told Sky Racing HQ this morning that he still believes Niccolance has plenty of improvement left in him and he is confident that the two-year-old will finish in the placings in the 2016 Magic Millions Classic this weekend.
“He seems to go through those gears that he has and I would dare say we haven’t reached the top one that he has,” Snowden said.
“He hasn’t really been pushed right out to see what he does have left, but he seems to do it quite comfortable and effortless.
“It gives you confidence in the horse.
“He worked well and pulled up great.
“Drawing anywhere inside the top nine is priceless for this race and that’s what owner Sandra Merritt did for us today.
“I think Niccolance is the biggest danger to Capitalist and barrier nine gives Niccolance a top each way chance, especially with James McDonald aboard.
“We are really looking forward to the weekend.”
The Team Snowden-trained trio in the 2016 Magic Millions Classic field is rounded out by Mooshakissa, who was only narrowly denied by Souchez in the Schweppes Plate (1100m) at Rosehill Gardens on December 19.
Mooshakissa’s Magic Millions Classic task was made more difficult when she was allocated barrier 18 at the barrier draw this morning and Snowden admits that lack in running will be key for the Duporth filly.
“She is drawn awkwardly but if the rain continues this part of the track could be the place to be by Saturday, so we still remain hopeful,” Snowden said.
“She’s a class filly and anything is possible, but Mark Zahra will need to be at his tactical best.”
Niccolance is currently available at 2016 Magic Millions Classic odds of $10 with Ladbrokes, while Mooshakissa is priced at $67 to record an upset win.
