Magic Millions Carnival 2026 calling for Gin A Tonic

Apprentice Logan Bates might yet find himself riding at the Magic Millions Carnival after guiding Gin A Tonic to another impressive victory at Caulfield Heath.

The progressive sprinter continued his rise by claiming the Magic Millions VIC 3YO & 4YO Classic (1200m) on Saturday, extending his unbeaten partnership with Bates to three straight wins.

After earlier triumphs at Moonee Valley and Cranbourne, Gin A Tonic turned in his most dominant display yet, scoring by three lengths as a $3.80 chance. Steel Move ($5.50) boxed on for second, with outsider Volatile ($151) holding third.

The victory completed a riding double for Bates after success aboard Angland earlier on the card.

Bates said this latest performance was Gin A Tonic’s most complete.

“The query was going up to the 1200 (metres) but when he didn’t get that much pressure early, I was able to rate him,” Bates said.

“He’s a very bold mover and off the corner, I had to wake him up a little bit as he wobbled off, but I balanced him up, he switched legs and once I gave him a reminder, he was good.

“I was able to have a look at the big screen and what he was able to do that to that sort of field, it was a good feeling.

“It’s great for the Laming crew. They’ve got a quality sprinter on their hands.”

The apprentice has not yet discussed long-term plans with Bevan and Richard Laming but believes a Magic Millions tilt is an obvious next step.

“I’m sure it’s in their thoughts but I haven’t spoken to Richie yet,” Bates said.

“He’s big, he’s strong, he can make his own luck and when he puts them to bed like that, he’s a smart horse.

“He burns around the rail and I’m only a passenger.

“He does the rest and I’m happy to be associated with him.”

Punters eyeing Gin A Tonic’s potential Gold Coast campaign can compare markets at leading Australian betting sites.

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