Image: Bruno Cannatelli
Trainer Robbie Griffiths has hinted at more West Australian targets to come after his in-form sprinter Rey Magnerio claimed the Group 3 The Gold Rush (1400m) at Ascot on Saturday.
The six-year-old son of Magnus initially targeted the recent G1 Winterbottom Stakes, where he finished a close third behind Libertad and Overpass. After the encouraging performance, Griffiths opted to remain in Perth for an extended campaign, paying a late entry fee into the Gold Rush of $1.5 million.
The decision turned out to be fruitful: Rey Magnerio stepped up to the 1400 meters for the first time and scored impressively.
“What a horse he is,” said Griffiths. “He’s just so much fun for all of us involved with him. His Winterbottom run – Willie (Pike) thought he was a bit unlucky – and we waited to see how he got through that run before deciding on this race.
“But to be honest it was an easy decision because the next morning he was bouncing and feeling great. He’s thriving in the WA climate and he’s only had four runs in this pre-season so he’s still very fresh.”
Rey Magnerio’s win sees Griffiths eyeing further opportunities in the west, with The Quokka high on the agenda as the sprinter continues to produce the best form of his career away from home.
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