Trainer Stephen Miller acknowledges that Magnificent Andy faces a significant challenge in overcoming a wide draw in Saturday’s Group 3 Belmont Sprint (1400m) at Belmont Park.

The consistent gelding has been in solid form this campaign, with two fourth-place finishes behind Jokers Grin in the Kia-Quokka and Northam Stakes. However, he has been dealt a blow with barrier 18, although he will come into 14 if all emergencies are withdrawn.

“It’s a hot line up and he’s drawn a sticky barrier,” Miller told TABradio. “We’ll leave it to Brad (Parnham), who knows him well. With a bit of luck, he should run a creditable race.”

Magnificent Andy has continued his consistent run from last spring, where he placed in the Eurhythmic Stakes, Lee Steere Stakes, and Gold Rush. He was third in this race last year before taking out the Hyperion Stakes at his next outing.

Leading betting sites have Northam Stakes winner West Star at $2.80, Western Empire at $4.40, with The Boss Lady ($7.50), Bustler ($8), and Magnificent Andy ($9) next in the market.

Miller also saddles up Toropa in the Free Entry To Belmont Park Handicap (1200m). After a strong first-up win at Ascot, she was unplaced second-up but has bounced back well.

“She’s come through it good and worked well since. Brad thinks 1200 to 1400m suits her better, especially at Belmont,” Miller said.

Toropa is currently $5.50 with online bookmakers, behind favourite Stormchaser at $4.60. Miller will also be represented by Elite Missile, Noneofyourbusiness, and More Than Enuff across the Belmont card.