Fairchild steals a victory | Horse Racing

Jennifer Huxley | 28th November 2008

Brad Pengelly leads Fairchild to victory in yesterday’s Magic Millions Plate at Clifford Park.

BRISBANE trainer Liam Birchley doubled his chances of victory in this season's two-year-old Magic Millions classic with a win in the Magic Millions Plate (1000m) at Clifford Park yesterday.

The $52,000 winner's cheque virtually assures Fairchild a start in the 2009 Magic Millions at the Gold Coast and she will almost certainly line-up against Birchley's unbeaten filly Paprika.

Fairchild, which started as the $2.90 favourite, made amends for a slow start when it overtook Toowoomba first starter Fleet 'N' Fast at the 50 metre mark to claim the $100,000 race.

Felony Flight ($10) placed second and Princess Kimono ($31) was third.

Birchley said Fairchild's successful run from behind was unexpected after he instructed jockey Brad Pengelly to lead from the start.

“It was a bit upside down. We had a talk before the race and I thought she would lead,” Birchley said.

“We haven't gotten to the bottom of why she was a bit slow out and did things in reverse but she got home anyway.

“I thought we had no hope to be honest. She's never been back in the pack before and has always had that brilliant speed out (of the barrier). It was a new experience for her but it was good she did it that way.”

While surprised by yesterday's win, Birchley wouldn't write off the chances of Fairchild taking home the top Magic Millions prize in January. “It's a good race to have a shot at and obviously the prize money is terrific,” Birchley said.

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