The 43-year-old has ridden four of the past six Miracle Mile winners and has three main contenders – Kingman, Don Hugo and Eye Keep Smiling – to add.
But first all three must qualify tomorrow evening via the two qualifying sprints in Menangle.
Don Hugo, who led the way last year and won the Miracle Mile ahead of McCarthy, is the prime draw in gate one to book a title defense by finishing in the top two in the first qualifier (race five).
Maybe even the top three would get Don Hugo through, given his overall record and defending champion.
“He’s doing really well. We deliberately skipped the big races in Melbourne to stay fresh and sharp for the Miracle Mile because it’s such a suitable race for him,” he said.
“It’s a great draw and he’s exactly where I want him to be. He won easily last week and I just looked after him once he got the win, to give him as easy a time as possible.”
But Don Hugo has serious opposition, led by champion pacer and 2024 Miracle Mile winner Leap To Fame (gate four). Brilliant beginner and possible leader Hi Managirlff (gate five), Captains Knock (12), Speak The Truth (three) and Chase A Dream (nine) are the other top performers.
“I’m glad Leap To Fame has come out. It will be one of the toughest Miracle Miles to participate in, let alone win, in a long time,” said McCarthy.
In the second qualifier, McCarthy’s NZ and Victoria Cup winner Kingman (gate eight) is the class factor.
But a wide draw and fierce opposition will make it a challenge. Hunter Cup winner Swayzee (gate 12), Newcastle Mile runner-up Rakero Rocket (five), rising Queensland star The Janitor (one), stylish Kiwi Pinseeker (two) make for a great race.
McCarthy’s champion mare Eye Keep Smiling has gate three in the same race.
“Kingman has refreshed extremely well at home since his time in Victoria and I can’t wait to get him back to Menangle,” he said.
“His Hunter Cup run was extraordinary after suffering those early problems and his work at home was fantastic.
“Don’t be surprised if the mare (Eye Keep Smiling) runs a big race too. She wasn’t quite herself in Melbourne for a few reasons, but she’s back on track now that she’s home and on a good draw.”
The other big watch of the evening is tree mare Captains Mistress, the $1.10 favorite from gate three in the $250,000 Group 1 Chariots Of Fire.
A win would earn her a golden ticket to the Miracle Mile and trainer Jason Grimson confirmed she would tackle the first Australasian sprint if invited.
For full race entries, click here.
Through Adam Hamiltonfor Harness Racing Australia
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