Encoder ($5.50) has put the head down where it matters most to claim the Magic Millions Subzero (2200m) on the Sunshine Coast on January 4, going one better this time around, courtesy of a perfectly timed ride by Tyler Schiller.
Encoder benefited from a hectic tempo throughout the middle stages, with rank outsider with horse racing bookmakers, Coney Island Bay ($151.00), sent forward to dictate under Cejay Graham, while there was no reprieve as Wapiti ($51.00) sat to his outside.
There were mid-race moves aplenty as well, with Tannhauser ($11.00) and Sky Lab ($13.00) both forced forward after being unable to find cover throughout the 2200m journey.
It turned into a genuine staying affair in the concluding stages, with Encoder, Miss Jolene, and the luckless Belvedere Boys ($3.00) all going to the line in a head-bobbing finish, as Encoder got the verdict by the barest of margins to secure the $1 million prize.
Click here for every race replay of Magic Millions 2025
Lee Freedman was on course to break down the victory, crediting the firming conditions for his geldings’ success.
“If you get really wet tracks he’s no good and off times he gets way out of his ground,” said Freedman.
“The prizemoney is great and we’ve always had a good opinion of the horse. I think he’ll stay even further. He’s only had one run at a mile-and-a-half on a big in the Derby and he ran unbelievable.
“When you know the horses as well as we all do, we knew the elements in his training and in the race that didn’t really suit him. Today suited him and he had everything in his favour.”
Tyler Schiller was quick to thank the Freedman team for the success as he spoke post-race.
“Fantastic training performance from Lee and the team at home,” said Schiller.
“I only got on the horse because of the light weight and I’m really grateful for the opportunity.
“He did a great job putting himself in a lovely spot in the run. When I cut the corner I thought he was home but a couple joined me. Miss Joelene on the outside, and I thought he had to dig in for the fight and he had to dig in late.”
Horse racing news
