Get ready to be dazzled, because Grahame Begg’s star mare, Magic Time, is back—and she’s bigger, stronger, and more stunning than ever before. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite her undeniable brilliance, Begg has ruled out a glamorous trip to Royal Ascot this year, opting instead for a more grounded approach. Why? He believes she’s simply not the right fit for the international stage—at least not yet. In a recent episode of The Verdict podcast, Begg revealed that his six-year-old champion will set her sights on the Group 1 William Reid Stakes at Caulfield in March, a decision that’s sure to spark debate among racing enthusiasts.
Begg couldn’t help but gush about Magic Time’s transformation. ‘She’s bigger, better, and more beautiful,’ he said, his pride palpable. ‘She’s a beauty—a lovely, big, strong girl who just keeps getting better.’ Her development hasn’t gone unnoticed, and Begg is taking no chances with her preparation. ‘She’ll have a nice, long, steady build-up,’ he explained, emphasizing her fantastic condition after a well-deserved spell.
While rumors of a Royal Ascot appearance had been swirling, Begg was quick to pour cold water on the idea. ‘To be truthful, I don’t think she’s the right horse for that,’ he admitted. Instead, he’s laser-focused on domestic Group 1 targets, a strategy that’s both practical and ambitious. And this is the part most people miss: by prioritizing local races, Begg is not only playing to Magic Time’s strengths but also setting her up for long-term success.
So, is Begg making the right call? Or should Magic Time take on the world stage sooner rather than later? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s sure to keep the racing world buzzing.
