Trainer Chris Gangemi is adamant Rock Magic can upset the return of exciting gelding, Vega Magic, in the Group 3 Prince Of Wales Stakes (1000m) at Ascot on Saturday.
All eyes will be drawn to Vega Magic who has carried the tag as WA racing’s next rising star after posting seven wins and three placings from his 10 career starts.
The Sean Casey-trained-four-year-old has not been seen at the races since defeating Gigante by 3 ¼ lengths in July, his fourth straight victory capping a fine campaign.
Only a long-neck second to Brisanto when first-up in April prevented Vega Magic from going through his winter preparation undefeated.
But the son of Lope De Vega looks poised for a successful return if his trial is any guide, romping to a four length victory to consolidate $2.70 favouritism with the TAB.
Vega Magic, on a path towards Group 1 glory in next month’s Winterbottom Stakes (1200m), will be in a commanding position from barrier two. Jake Casey retains the ride.
Despite hot opposition and drawing barrier ten in the field of 11, a starting position that has produced one Prince Of Wales Stakes winner, Gangemi is upbeat about his charge.
The seven-year-old has been Gangemi’s stable flagbearer since crossing from Sydney, winning seven races including four at black-type level, boosting strake earnings to $576, 915.
Gangemi elected not to trial Rock Magic, the son of Redoute’s Choice racing off a 59 day break after scoring in the Idyllic Prince Stakes (1300m) in August.
But the Ascot horseman believes if conditions are suitable, Rock Magic, will be a legitimate force, despite the presence of Vega Magic.
“First-up at weight-for-age and over 1000m will really suit him,” Gangemi said on Tabradio’s The Sports Daily
.
“Providing the track is playing fair and they can come from behind I think he will be very hard to beat.”
Rock Magic, who occupies the fifth line of betting at $7.50, will be ridden by Jarrad Noske.
RWWA: Julio Santarelli