Bjorn Baker’s formidable presence heading into the Magic Millions Carnival has gained further momentum after the eye-catching debut of Warwoven at Randwick, a performance that immediately stamped the colt as a genuine Gold Coast contender.
In a high-quality 1000-metre TAB Handicap, Warwoven showcased both composure and raw talent, delivering a powerful late surge to score convincingly despite facing conditions that were far from ideal. The colt, sent out as a $3.40 chance, settled back under a patient ride from Rachel King before unleashing a decisive turn of foot in the home straight. He quickly put the race beyond doubt, pulling away to win by 2-1/4 lengths over Norman’s Cay ($5.50), while Hardanger ($13) battled on bravely to finish a short neck behind the runner-up in third.
The early stages of the race were dictated by Shiki, who set a solid tempo but faded in the final furlong to finish fourth, beaten 2-3/4 lengths. While the result marked a defeat for the highly regarded filly, connections were quick to play down any concerns, citing fitness and race dynamics as key factors.
A Win That Raised Expectations
For Baker, the victory was particularly satisfying given the challenges leading into the race. Warwoven entered the contest with limited preparation, having just one official trial to his name, and was stepping out over a trip shorter than what his trainer believes will ultimately be his best.
“I thought it was a big ask,” Baker said.
“He only had the one trial, so I was questioning that, whether he was quite fit enough and whether the 1000-metres was going to be too sharp for him. So absolutely thrilled.”
Those concerns proved unfounded as Warwoven demonstrated maturity beyond his experience, settling comfortably before producing a sustained finish that suggested greater distances would be even more suitable. The performance not only confirmed Baker’s high opinion of the colt but also significantly strengthened his already impressive Magic Millions hand.
A Growing Magic Millions Arsenal
Baker is no stranger to success on the Gold Coast stage, and Warwoven’s emergence adds further depth to his team targeting the $3 million Magic Millions 2YO Classic (1200m). The trainer already holds a commanding position in the market with Paradoxium installed as the $3.50 favourite, while Warwoven now occupies the second line of betting at $6, alongside Lumbini, who recently impressed in The Debut.
Saturday’s victory delivered another crucial bonus: enough prizemoney to secure Warwoven’s place in the Magic Millions Classic field. While that achievement alone marks a major milestone for the colt, Baker is keeping his options open regarding the path forward.
“I know going to 1100 and 1200 in the Magic Millions he is going to be better suited, so very exciting,” he said.
Whether Warwoven has another run before the Gold Coast feature remains undecided, but his debut suggests he has the talent and temperament to handle the step up in class and pressure that comes with a marquee event.
Rachel King’s Commitment Signals Confidence
One of the strongest endorsements of Warwoven’s potential came from jockey Rachel King, who confirmed she has altered her international riding plans to stay aboard the colt through the Magic Millions period.
“He’s one of the main reasons why I’m not going back to Japan until after the Magic Millions and then I’ll be back a month before the Golden Slipper too,” King said.
Such a decision underlines the regard in which King holds the colt, particularly given her growing profile on the international stage. King’s rapport with Warwoven was evident from the moment she climbed aboard, and she offered insight into the colt’s nature and development.
“The first time I sat on him, it was like riding an old five-year-old gelding around the track,” she said.
“He has been a beautiful horse the whole way through, but he’s been quite immature mentally, a bit on the dopey side at times.
“He’s got the kindest attitude, but he’s got that feeling of class about him as well.”
That blend of raw ability and laid-back temperament often separates good horses from elite ones, particularly during the demanding two-year-old season.
Shiki’s Run Viewed as a Stepping Stone
While the spotlight belonged to Warwoven, there was also significant interest in the return of Shiki, who entered the race off the back of her October victory in the Gimcrack Stakes (1000m). Despite setting the pace, the filly was unable to sustain her effort late, but rider Tim Clark was quick to explain the circumstances surrounding the run.
“She was just a bit free through the middle stages, which she can be,” Clark said.
“She has got to harness that a little bit. With the run under her belt, hopefully that will settle her down.
“She will be alright. She will bounce back.”
With fitness gained and adjustments likely, Shiki remains a filly to watch as the season progresses, particularly over distances that allow her to settle more comfortably.
A Colt on the Rise
Warwoven’s debut victory has shifted perceptions from promise to proven ability. The manner in which he handled race pressure, overcame an unsuitable distance, and delivered a decisive win suggests his ceiling is high. As the Magic Millions Carnival approaches, Baker’s stable continues to gather momentum, and Warwoven has firmly announced himself as a colt capable of playing a major role on one of racing’s biggest stages.
With time, distance, and further experience on his side, the Gold Coast could soon witness the next chapter in what already looks like a very exciting career.
