Popular Toowoomba trainer Rex Lipp says recent reports of his retirement are premature.

Lipp, who will saddle up Tinto in the Open Quality (1800m) at the Gold Coast on Saturday, was surprised to read of his intention to retire during a recent trip to Sydney with the top Queensland mare.

“Someone asked me when I intended to retire. As a throw-away line I said I would retire when Tinto retired. Next thing I know I am retiring,” Lipp said.

“You can’t go on forever in this business and I do have a property where I work with cattle.

“But I certainly haven’t made any decision and I am not likely to for a while yet.”

Lipp’s focus is firmly on getting Tinto ready for the $1 million Magic Millions Trophy (1800m) on January 9.

“Tinto has travelled back well from Sydney after the Villiers. I felt she needed this run to sharpen her up for the Millions day,” Lipp said.

“She has had two goes at the 1800 metres around the Gold Coast and won them both.

“She does have a big weight on Saturday but she can cope with that.”

Tinto will be ridden by Damian Browne who will be representing New Zealand on the final day of the State of Origin jockeys’ series.

“Damian is an elite jockey so I am always happy to get him,” Lipp said.

“His laid-back style suits a horse like Tinto who doesn’t like being bustled.”

Article from JustHorseRacing.com.au