Flying filly Setfire To Therain has reaffirmed her claims for the $2 million Magic Millions Classic with a runaway win at Eagle Farm on Saturday.
Trainer Darren Bell was all smiles after Setfire To Therain ($1.65) showed enormous pace to beat Storming Pleasure ($19) by 2-1/2 lengths with a long head to Wicked Temptation ($6) in the Salt Design Handicap (1000m).
However, Bell turned serious when the subject of the Magic Millions was raised after Saturday's race.
He admitted it would be tempting to enter Setfire To Therain for the Listed Calaway Gal Stakes (1010m) at Doomben on December 14.
"Black type is always tempting for a filly but we have to look at the bigger picture with the Millions," Bell said.
"If she was to run in the Calaway Gal I would have to keep her going for the next month and then push on to the Millions without a break."
Instead, Setfire To Therain will have a week in the paddock away from the stables.
"It should freshen her up without losing fitness. Then we can get her back and give her one more run before the Millions," Bell said.
Setfire To Therain was flighty in the parade ring on Saturday and Bell had to take over strapping duties.
"But she was fine once she got onto the track. I was pleased with the way she settled," Bell said.