Co-trainer Dan Pearce is optimistic about Perfect Chant’s chances in Saturday’s Magic Millions WA 3YO Trophy (1200m) at Pinjarra, thanks to positive feedback from jockey Jarrad Noske.
Noske had his first experience riding the Toronado filly during a Belmont trial last week, where she delivered an eye-catching performance, winning her 1000m heat with authority.
Despite settling at the back of the field, Perfect Chant unleashed an impressive finishing burst when Noske urged her forward, keeping her flawless trial record intact at four wins from four outings.
Perfect Chant made a victorious race debut at Belmont in September and later placed fourth at Bunbury, finishing behind the outstanding filly Storyville.
Storyville further cemented her credentials by securing wins in both the Group 3 Champion Fillies Stakes (1600m) and the Group 2 WA Guineas (1600m) last November.
“She trialled exceptionally well, and Jarrad was very pleased with her,” Pearce told Tabradio.
“That was his first time riding her, and he had nothing but positive things to say.
“He’s making the effort to get down to 55kg, which is something he hasn’t done in a while, so she’s progressing well.”
Currently priced at $6, Perfect Chant shares second-favorite status with London’s Image, trained by Ryan Hill. London’s Image claimed victory in the Listed Burgess Queen (1400m) last November and remains unbeaten this preparation.
Simon Miller’s runner, Shmoov Mover, leads the market at $2.90.
Perfect Chant will jump from barrier 10 in a full field of sixteen runners.
“I think the draw works in her favor,” Pearce commented.
“If she can find a good position and move into the middle of the track, that would be ideal.
“She’s a big-striding filly, and that’s how she likes to race.
“She has a first-up win over 1200m and is coming off two strong trials.
“We’re very pleased with her progress and excited for Saturday.
“She’s well-bred and has demonstrated stakes-level ability.”
The Pearce brothers are aiming for their fourth Magic Millions WA 3YO Trophy win, but their first as co-trainers.
Dan previously trained Testamezzo (2014) and Let It Slip (2016) to victory, while Ben secured a win with Enchanted Dream (2017).
Meanwhile, the Pearce brothers will also contest the Magic Millions WA 2YO Classic (1200m) with Perfectly Proper and Hold My Wine.
Perfectly Proper has had two career starts, her best effort being a runner-up finish in January when she was caught late by Our Naughty Secret.
Clint Johnston-Porter, who guided her to a comfortable Belmont trial win last week, retains the ride.
“She’s in great shape and had a smooth trial under Clint,” Pearce said.
“She wore blinkers in the trial, and she’ll keep them on for race day.
“She’s drawn barrier 10 but will shift in four places due to scratchings, which helps her setup.”
On the other hand, Pearce acknowledges that barrier 17 presents a challenge for Hold My Wine.
The Safeguard gelding impressed in his recent trial win with Natasha Faithfull aboard, and she will continue the partnership in Saturday’s race.
Perfectly Proper is listed at $9.50 with betting apps, while Hold My Wine is a $16 chance.
Strideaway leads the market as the $3.50 favourite.
