Magnificent Storm resumed his gallant second place behind Minstrel in the West Australian Pacing Cup in December, riding perfectly into barrier 3 and at dispatch pinged straight to the front.
Driver Aiden De Campo ran evenly with Otis on his outside and Hotly chasing close behind the leader. Better Eclipse from his second row, angling up to three behind the leader on the rails.
BEAUTIFUL STORM FEB 13 REPEAT
Enjoying the short 1730 meter journey, Magnificent Storm unleashed his final two quarters in 27.7 and 27.1 seconds, clearly giving his rivals space. It was left to Hotly Pursued and Otis to fill the minor spots, while Better Eclipse, after being held up, finished an honest fourth.
Aiden De Campo was full of praise for Magnificent Storm.
It’s probably the sharpest he’s felt first in a long time. He has warmed up well on the bridle, normally he first looks around to see what is going on. But tonight Ray (Williams trainer) noticed that he was sharp on the bridle. Ray said he’s going to need the running a little bit. We give him time as easily as possible. He still ran 1.53 and did it sharply while running to the finish line. He didn’t miss a trick.
Magnificent Storm is working towards an invitation to the $1.25 million Group 1 Nullabor at Gloucester Park on April 17. He will face his evergreen rival Minstrel who overtook him in the WA Cup.
But Magnificent Storm, who looks good with his trainer Ray Williams, has shown he has lost none of his power and will certainly make his presence felt in a similarly top-tier company, especially if he can lead.
By Tony Milanese for Harnesslink
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