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Cummings Exhilarated to be a part of Millions

5 January 2019

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By Isaac Murphy

Australian racing’s most famous name will be represented in the Magic Millions Two-Year-Old’s as the James Cummings trained Exhilarates did just that in a powerful display winning the QTIS Two-Year-Old Handicap.

A rapt Cummings said the filly was a different horse from the one who debuted fifth of five at Rosehill two months ago and was primed for her tilt at the big one next week.

“That’s her best race by far and to see her do it seven days out from the Grand Final is ideal,” Cummings said.

“It’s not just exciting for myself but the whole team to have a runner in the Magic Millions two-year-old’s.”

“It’s a goal we had this year and to have her rock hard fit and on season it’s really exciting.”

Cummings praised the ride of champion hoop Kerrin McEvoy who gave the filly a perfect sit on her rivals.

 “I hope she felt as well under Kerrin and she was to watch in the stands for me,” he said

“He got her into a lovely positive spot in the run and when he eased her out she let down with purpose.”

Cummings said the filly bred out of Snitzel and Samaready was handpicked by Godolphin Managing Director Vin Cox and Darley Bloodstock Manager Jason Walsh and was shaping as a shrewd purchase.

 “Jason Walsh and Vin Cox both had a very high opinion of her, so to see her start to fulfil that is encouraging,” he said.

Cummings booked McEvoy for the filly’s last start second at Wyong, now he’s set to steer her in Australia’s richest two-year-old race.

 “I was lucky enough to ride her last start at Wyong and the improvement between then and now is light and day,” McEvoy said

James (Cummings) has just tailored her prep perfectly for next week’s race.”

“I’ve ridden for Godolphin all over the world but never in a Magic Millions Two-Year-Old’s, so I can’t wait to pull on that familiar blue.”