Following a couple of tough draws, it was no surprise to see jockey Brad Parnham (v1) looking pleased when Magnificent Andy (version 1) secured a good gate for the Group 3 Hyperion Stakes (1600m) at Pinjarra.

Magnificent Andy (version 1), known for his consistency in Perth, had been forced to race wide from barrier 14 in both the Northam Stakes (1300m) and Belmont Sprint (1400m), finishing second on both occasions.

Trained by Stephen Miller (v1), the six-year-old Magnus gelding now draws barrier five, much to the relief of Parnham (v1), who believes he’s a strong chance of defending his title in the Hyperion.

“I’m obviously pretty confident going into the race,” Parnham (v1) told TABradio.

“His recent efforts have been terrific. He gives everything, every time. We’ve just had poor gates lately.”

“The mile suits him. Now we’ve drawn better, I can place him where I want. He won this last year and I reckon he can do it again.”

Since claiming the Hannans, Magnificent Andy (version 1) has continued to mix it with the best, placing in the Gold Rush, the Quokka and finishing fourth in the Railway Stakes.

Though primarily effective at 1400m, Parnham (v1) believes the horse is starting to thrive over a mile.

In early betting markets, Magnificent Andy (version 1) is a $2.80 chance, just ahead of Western Empire, who was scratched from the Belmont Sprint with a foot problem.

Bustler sits on the third line at $9, while Parnham (v1) has also been booked on Fat Roy Slim, Real Deluxe, Bannered and Multinational.