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Apache Chase set to bounce back in Magic Millions Cup

14 January 2022

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By Glenn Davis

It’s a game of high stakes in the $1 million Magic Millions Cup at the Gold Cost on Saturday and trainer Desleigh Forster is refusing to show her hand with Apache Chase.

Forster had two wishes before the 1400-metre feature and it looks like the Gods have smiled on her with the prospect of an improving track after last week's rain.

Unfortunately, the hope of a favourable barrier was dashed on Wednesday, drawing a horror gate in 21, jumping from 16 if the five emergencies fail to obtain runs.

“It is what it is,” Forster said.

“I can’t do anything about the track or the weather and it’s up to his riderJimmy Byrne now to work things outs from the draw.

“It’s Jimmy’s problem.”

Forster downplayed Apache Chase’s wide barrier and when asked if he’ll go forward or take a midfield sit, Forster was quick to reply.

“I’m not saying whether Jim will go forward or go back,” she said.

“I won’t be playing my hand just now even though there doesn’t look to be much speed in the race.”

Apache Chase was uncomfortable on a heavy track last start when the four-year-old finished a gallant third to Godolphin’s Kementari in The Buffering at Doomben on New Year’s Day.

“It was a good run but importantly he pulled up well after it,” Forster said.

“He’s coming along well and is ready to go again.”

Apache Chase will be spelled after the Magic Millions Cup to concentrate on the Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap at Eagle Farm in June after he gained automatic qualification by winning The Gateway at Eagle Farm last month.

Magic Millions Day has been good to Forster, and she’ll attempt to win the Magic Millions QTIS race for a second time with Chapter And Verse who won the feature in 2019 before running fourth in 2020.

She also has Georgie’s Pride striving to win the Magic Millions Fillies and Mares race over 1300 metres.

Chapter And Verse is lining up for his fourth start this campaign and is coming off a last start sixth to the Chris Munce-trained Stampe in the Listed Lough Neagh Stakes at Doomben last month.

“He’s going good but has drawn awkwardly but it’s not as bad as you think,” Forster said.

“There looks to be a lot of speed which will suit.

“Georgie’s Pride is in a strong race but she’s got a good gate and a light weight.”

Georgie’s Pride has been placed in three of her last four starts including a hit-and-run trip to Rosehill in October before being freshened up when fifth to East Asia in the Listed Just Now at Eagle Farm in mid-December.