In a highly anticipated race at Randwick, the horse Dollar Magic is set to challenge her own record of 14 second-place finishes. The seven-year-old mare, trained by Scott Singleton, has amassed a remarkable career with 14 runner-up positions in 28 starts. If she manages to secure a victory on Saturday, she will not only achieve her fifth win but also surpass the infamous mark set by Tom Melbourne, a beloved figure in Australian racing.
Singleton, who owns 20 percent of Dollar Magic, expressed optimism about her performance, especially following her recent race on July 19, 2023, where she finished second to Useapin at Rosehill. “The fact that they earn such good prize money running second takes the frustration out of it because you feel like a winner anyway,” he said. So far, Dollar Magic has earned $559,690 from her racing efforts.
Reflecting on her last performance, Singleton noted, “You can’t say she ran second because she wants to. You could just tell she was trying her heart out.” Despite her numerous second-place finishes, he emphasized his desire for her to finally secure a win, adding, “I wouldn’t say it’s frustrating. I’d just love her to win one for her.”
While Tom Melbourne, an import who gained cult status for his 14 second-place finishes and only five wins across 50 Australian starts, earned a staggering $1.4 million, Dollar Magic has carved her niche as a consistent performer. She has not only won four races but has also only missed a place six times, demonstrating her competitiveness.
Twelve of her second-place finishes have occurred on Saturdays in major metropolitan races. Her only Saturday metro win was at home during Scone’s annual standalone meeting last year. This Saturday, she returns to the same competitive environment with the hope of achieving a breakthrough performance in the third race on the card.
In preparation for the race, Dollar Magic will compete in a 1200-meter fillies and mares benchmark 78 handicap, a familiar scenario for her. Bred by Singleton’s long-time clients Wal and Anne Lanham, she is a daughter of Shamus Award, who stood for $22,000 at Widden Stud. Given her background and past performance, Singleton remains confident that Dollar Magic can rise to the occasion and deliver a memorable race at Randwick.
As the excitement builds for her upcoming race, all eyes will be on Dollar Magic as she seeks to redefine her legacy in Australian horse racing.
