World Is Lucky Magic's Oyster After Derby Win

Malaysian trainer Cheng toys with idea of offshore travels for Perak classic winner

- Sharon Zhang

Connections are looking at raising the bar for Lucky Magic after the in-form galloper stamped his authority in the RM200,000 (S$60,500) Group 1 Meru Valley Resort Perak Derby (2,000m) in Ipoh on March 2.

Trainer Winson Cheng Han Yong was brimming with confidence before the race at Perak Turf Club and Lucky Magic did not disappoint.

The Mendelssohn four-year-old was at his third win on the bounce after easily accounting for his Class 3 rivals in the Spring Festival Harmony Stakes (1,600m) at his last start on Jan 31.

Before that, he overcame a huge rise in class to capture the Group 1 Penang Gold Cup (2,000m) on Dec 29, 2024, handing the young Malaysian handler his first Group 1 win in five years of training in Malaysia.

Cheng has had a high opinion of the Jack Of All Trades Stable-owned gelding, who has now won six races from 10 starts in Malaysia, including two Group 1 wins.

The world could be his oyster for the up-and-coming youngster. After discussing with the owners, Cheng shared that Lucky Magic would be aimed at international races in the near future.

"We have bigger dreams in mind for such a talented horse. He's that good," said Cheng.

"I have spoken to the owners about running him overseas and they agreed. I will also speak to Selangor Turf Club to see how we can go about sending him for the international races.

"It's been very long since Malaysia had a runner on the international stage, but we think he has the ability, so why not?"