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Can By Choice Bring Singapore Another Magic Millions Victory?

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Can By Choice Spark Another Singaporean Magic Millions Triumph? The Rising Star Poised to Shine in Queensland

Singapore's racing scene has enjoyed a surprising and delightful connection with Australia’s prestigious Magic Millions carnival over the years, and this year promises another exciting chapter. All eyes are on By Choice, a talented three-year-old gelding trained by Ricardo Donavan, as he prepares for the A$2 million (approximately S$2.15 million) Magic Millions 3YO Classic at the Gold Coast on January 13th. The article in The Straits Times highlights his compelling form and potential to deliver another Singaporean victory in this coveted race.

For those unfamiliar, the Magic Millions is a unique racing series that begins with yearling sales where horses are purchased and then raced. The culmination of this process is the Magic Millions Carnival, featuring lucrative races for two and three-year-olds bred from nominated sires. It's a significant event in Australian racing, attracting large crowds and substantial prize money. Singapore has previously tasted success at this carnival, most notably with Dean Marianov’s Super Easy winning the 2013 Magic Millions Cup – a victory that remains a source of pride for local racing enthusiasts (as detailed in related articles).

By Choice's journey to Queensland is particularly noteworthy. The gelding, by Toronado out of a Reset mare, was initially purchased at the Inglis Gold Coast Two-Year-Old Sale for A$130,000. He’s proven himself a consistent performer in Singapore, demonstrating speed and stamina that suggest he's well-suited to the demands of the Magic Millions 3YO Classic. His recent victory in the Restricted Novice race over 1400m at Kranji was particularly impressive, showcasing his ability to handle a longer distance and solidify his position as a serious contender. Donavan has consistently praised By Choice’s temperament and willingness to learn, qualities crucial for success on the big stage.

The article emphasizes that while By Choice is considered a strong prospect, he faces stiff competition. The field boasts several highly-rated Australian horses who have been specifically prepared for this race. Key rivals include Bojack, trained by Peter Moody, and Gunstock, representing the powerful Ciaron Maher & David Eustace stable. These horses have demonstrated exceptional form in their respective races, adding a layer of complexity to By Choice’s chances. The article notes that assessing the relative strengths of these contenders is crucial for any serious analysis of the race's outcome.

Donavan acknowledges the challenge but remains optimistic. He believes By Choice’s versatility – his ability to perform well on both firm and slightly softer tracks – gives him an edge. The Gold Coast track conditions are often unpredictable, and a horse that can adapt is likely to thrive. Furthermore, Donavan has been carefully managing By Choice's training regime, ensuring he arrives at the race in peak physical condition while avoiding any unnecessary stress. He’s also keen on observing how his rivals perform leading up to the race, gathering valuable information that could inform their race strategy.

The article highlights a key strategic consideration: jockey selection. While no jockey has been officially confirmed as of the writing of the Straits Times piece, Donavan is actively seeking an experienced rider who understands By Choice’s racing style and can execute his planned tactics effectively. The choice of jockey can significantly impact a horse's performance, particularly in a high-pressure race like the Magic Millions Classic.

Beyond the immediate excitement surrounding By Choice, the potential victory holds broader significance for Singaporean racing. Success on the international stage elevates the profile of local trainers and jockeys, attracting investment and fostering greater interest in the sport within Singapore. It also demonstrates that Singaporean horses can compete successfully against some of Australia’s finest thoroughbreds, dispelling any notions of inferiority. The article subtly points to this broader narrative – a story of Singaporean resilience and ambition on the global racing circuit.

The Straits Times piece concludes by acknowledging the inherent unpredictability of horse racing. While By Choice possesses all the necessary attributes – talent, training, and temperament – victory is far from guaranteed. However, his compelling form and the unwavering belief of his trainer offer a genuine reason for optimism. Singaporean racing fans will be eagerly watching on January 13th, hoping to witness another Magic Millions triumph and further solidify their nation’s place in Australian racing history. The possibility of By Choice adding his name to the list of Singaporean champions who have conquered the Magic Millions is a tantalizing prospect that has captured the attention of the local racing community.

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Read the Full The Straits Times Article at:
[ https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/magic-millions-feature-by-choice-for-debut-winner ]