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.