Without Reg wins the 2026 Mandurah Cup for jockey Holly Watson
Warwoven is set to become one of the shortest-priced favourites in the history of the $3 million Magic Millions 2yo Classic when he competes in the prestigious race at the Gold Coast on Saturday. The Sword Of State colt currently stands at odds of $1.75 to win the 1200-meter dash, following impressive performances in his previous races.
In his debut on December 20, Warwoven dominated his rivals at Randwick, winning by more than two lengths. He followed this up with another strong showing at Eagle Farm, where he triumphed by a margin of three and three-quarters lengths just two weeks later. His odds have steadily decreased, reflecting the confidence among bettors regarding his chances in the feature event.
Owner Draws Parallels with Past Champion
Mitch Cunningham, one of Warwoven’s owners, has remarked on the striking similarities between Warwoven and Storm Boy, the winner of the Magic Millions in 2024 who started as a $2.50 favourite. “When we purchased Warwoven, the ownership group’s commentary on the horse was that he was a little clone of Storm Boy,” Cunningham told Racenet. He expressed increased confidence this time around, adding, “We were confident going into the Magic Millions with Storm Boy, we are very confident with Warwoven.”
Cunningham further described Warwoven as an “incredibly imposing physical specimen” with a calm demeanor, essential attributes for success at such a young age. He noted, “To get up and run as a two-year-old you’ve got to have the brain, and he loves work.” The excitement surrounding Warwoven is palpable, particularly for those involved, as the victory with Storm Boy had significant implications for their business.
Trainer Bjorn Baker seeks to claim a third title in the Magic Millions, having previously won with Unencumbered in 2014 and O’Ole last year. Warwoven drew barrier six, a favorable position, although several strong competitors also boast advantageous draws.
Challengers Emerge from Strong Field
Among Warwoven’s competitors is Zip Lock, currently listed at $7, who has also won both of his races. He secured victories at Doomben on November 15 and Eagle Farm in the B J McLachlan on December 27. Zip Lock will start from gate three, while another contender, Tornado Valley, is priced at $9.50 and will begin from barrier five. Tornado Valley, the previous favourite in their last encounter, will sport blinkers in hopes of a better performance.
Trainer Ciaron Maher is optimistic about Tornado Valley’s chances, stating, “We’ve put the shades on Tornado Valley, and I think you’ll see him run a much-improved race because of it.” He added that the colt has shown considerable improvement in his recent training sessions.
Additionally, Maher’s other entrant, Unit Five, at odds of $15, will start from gate nine. This horse previously outperformed its opposition in the Magic Millions 2yo Classic at Caulfield and is expected to contend well in this race.
The renowned training duo of Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott will also field three runners, despite the scratching of Lumbini. Their entries include Shiki at $12, Knightsbridge at $23, and By Choice at $26. Bott commented on the strength of their contenders, noting, “You can make a good case for each of them going into the run.”
As anticipation builds for the Magic Millions 2yo Classic, all eyes will be on Warwoven and his competitors as they prepare for a thrilling race on Saturday. The stakes are high, and with a combination of talent and preparation, this event promises to deliver excitement for racing fans.
