The Magic Millions carnival has grown into one of the most influential events on the Australian racing calendar. What started as a bold sales-and-racing concept on the Gold Coast is now a week long magnet for owners, trainers and punters chasing life changing money. The combination of high pressure two year old racing, rich prizemoney, premium yearling sales and a party atmosphere gives the Millions a flavour no other carnival can really match. It is fast, it is unpredictable and it always produces a story.
2026 will see a twilight meeting headlined by the $3 mil Sunlight Classic – a 3yo 1100m slot race – on January 10 before the Magic MIllions raceday on January 17.
Magic Millions week is never dull. Rarely do we get through a build up, let alone raceday, without a spanner being thrown into the works. More often than not it is the weather.
That is where having a local matters. Blair Gibson knows this joint better than anyone, and he will be tracking the key hopes as they step out and build towards their Millions grand finals. The new track keeps improving with every meeting, and by January it should be in the best shape we have seen since the rebuild.
Here are a few who have already kicked off their preps and ones Gibbo is keen to follow over the next month as the carnival takes shape.
MISS JOELENE – Ran 3rd in the Magic Millions staying race last year and not beaten far. Usually, that race is one of the weaker races on the card and feel she has the ability to come back and win it this year. Has had the two runs back this prep, she is on track and should be timed to the minute by a good stable.
HIDDEN WEALTH – Won the 1300m QTIS race last year and right on track to do similar. Winner fresh at the sunny coast over 1000m and that was done simply on class alone. Plenty left in the tank for Gollan to be as patient as he wants and pick which race will suit him best this year.
BOOMTOWN BOSS – This is another perfect candidate for the QTIS race on the first day of the Millions. He was absolutely smashed in betting first up and he was just too classy. Another one that Gollan can just take along steady and have ready on the day that counts. Still good upside in this horse and his full sister (Boomtown Lass) just got better with age.
