Tuff Tu Mus seeks Magic Millions redemption

By Glenn Davis

Trainer David Vandyke admits he was disappointed when Tuff Tu Mus suffered defeat in the Recognition Stakes and concedes he’ll have to improve for his Magic Millions Cup assignment at the Gold Coast on Saturday.

Vandyke hopes he can bounce back in the $2 million feature over 1400 metres.

The five-year-old gelding is owned by John Fordham. 

Vandyke has had to treat Tuff Tu Mus with kid glove throughout his career due to his anxiety levels and often takes him to the races without starting him just to gain valuable race day experience.

The training methods have been successful as Tuff Tu Mus became Vandyke’s first horse to win seven metropolitan races in succession when the gelding won at Eagle Farm in August.

The Sunshine Coast conditioner brought the son of All Too Hard back for one run in late November when he finished less than four lengths from the Tony Gollan-trained Rockribbed in the Listed Recognition Stakes.

“He had to step up in grade for the Recognition Stakes, but his run was a bit disappointing,” Vandyke said.

“He needs to improve in this grade but it’s a big race."

Vandyke always planned to target the Magic Millions with Tuff Tu Mus.

“He didn’t go out for a break after his last run and he’s trialled strongly since and is fit and well," Vandyke said.

Vandyke has a good opinion of Tuff Tu Mus but will see how he performs before sorting out a future target.

“Although his last run was a bit disappointing, they’re allowed a bad run now and then especially after winning so many straight in town,” Vandyke said.

“I’ll get through the Magic Millions Cup first before looking ahead as I’m not sure what level he’ll measure up to.”

In the latest markets for the Magic Millions Cup, Tuff To Mus has eased to a $41 chance after a horror draw. 

Meanwhile, Vandyke also has Jimmy’s Brother lining up in the $3 million Magic Millions Guineas over 1400 metres.

Jimmy’s Brother - an Angela Jones mount – has started four times for two victories and is coming off a last start win in an 1100 metre Benchmark race against his own age at Ipswich last Saturday.

“It’s a big step up for Jimmy’s Brother into the Guineas," the top trainer said.

“He’ll race well but I can’t see him beating Ninja.”

Ninja is a $1.90 favourite forth Magic Millions Guineas while Jimmy’s Brother is a $23 chance.