Magicool wins the UCI Stakes at Flemington

Trainer Mark Kavanagh unearthed another Derby prospect on Saturday when Magicool was a good winner of the UCI Stakes at Flemington over 1800 metres.

The stable won the same race in 2009 with Shamoline Warrior who went on to win the Norman Robinson Stakes and was installed as favourite for the Derby. Unfortunately he was struck down by illness on the morning of the race and unable to fulfil his Derby engagement.

Similarly Magicool will now head to the 'old' Norman Robinson - the Caulfield Classic - run on October 18.

Relatively inexperienced Magicool went into the UCI Stakes the beneficiary of just three starts. He had given a glimpse of his ability when he debuted at Moonee Valley in June when fifth and while he was beaten three and a half lengths he made up many lengths in the run after settling a long last.

With that educational run under his belt Magicool was tipped out and brought back with a spring preparation in mind.

He made a successful return to racing at Seymour on September 11, missed by a narrow margin at Geelong at his next start and then made the leviathan leap to stakes company at Flemington.

Ridden by Glen Boss Magicool began well and eventually settled in fourth. They raced in pairs passing the 1200 metre mark with Hawking and Eastern Cape on the lead and War Point and Magicool following. Rounding the home turn Magicool eased across the heels of Eastern Cape and dashed to the lead at the 200 metre mark.

Atmosphere, who peeled off Magicool's back at the 400, closed late but he was safely held on the line with the eventual margin a neck. War Point stuck on well on the inside for third a further long neck away. The trio spaced their rivals with Light Up Manhattan the next home some six lengths astern.

Magicool was purchased by trainer Mark Kavanagh as a yearling for members of the Torcasio family - Tony, Maurice and Mason - and their racing partners John Bishop, Ange Cammarotto, John Voitin, the Perfect Truth and Clarity Syndicates.