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Portelli to split juveniles between states

3 minute read

A pair of stablemates in the running for a Magic Millions Classic bid will test their respective credentials in separate states.

Gary Portelli
Gary Portelli Picture: (Mark Evans/Getty Images)

Gary Portelli will rely on Mystic Vein in the two-year-old race at Rosehill after deciding to split his youngsters between states.

Mystic Vein and stablemate Avno Doubt are both among acceptances in Sydney and Brisbane on Saturday, but Portelli has confirmed Avno Doubt will head to the Doomben Plate (1050m) while Mystic Vein stays closer to home for the Sky Racing Active Handicap (1100m).

Both horses are Magic Millions eligible and Portelli is keen to give them every opportunity to earn their way into the $2 million Gold Coast feature in January.

"You've got to get as much prize money as you can so it is silly to put two Magic Millions horses against each other," Portelli said.

"I thought Doomben would suit her more. She's a front-running type with good speed. He is more a horse that will unwind."

A Wandjina half-brother to dual Group One winner Platelet, Mystic Vein has been slow to catch on to life as a racehorse.

After the colt ran off the track in his first barrier trial, Portelli sent him to horseman Aaron Moyes who fine-tuned his education through figure eight and dressage work.

He returned to the stable at Warwick Farm and was much more tractable, finishing a narrow second to Saturday's rival Chilliwack in his most recent trial.

"Now he's getting on the right leg and he trialled much better," Portelli said.

"He is a big, strong raw colt who is probably going to need a bit more time.

"This is more a look-see to see what kind of ability he's got on Saturday."

With Avno Doubt to run in Brisbane, a field of six will contest the opening race at Rosehill, four of them first starters.

The Ciaron Maher and David Eustace-trained Muntaseera has the strongest form of the pair who have raced with a stakes placing down the Flemington straight on debut.

He has also been accepted for a two-year-old race at Moonee Valley on Saturday.

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