Magic Millions watch on Starchine

There is a huge Magic Millions Classic watch on the Mick Price-trained first starter Starchine in the Laura Butcher Memorial (2YO 1100m) at Caulfield today.

The Stratum colt has been heavily supported with TABsportsbet since fixed price betting was released on Wednesday.

Starchine has been backed from $8 to $2.30 leading to local tipsters to place him top.

The bay hasn’t been seen at an official trial and will jump from barrier six in a field of eight horse.

Price, currently fifth on the Melbourne premiership with 11 winners, is advising caution.

“I’m hoping he will win and I think he will win but he is vulnerable in a couple of areas,” Price said.

“While his two jump-outs have been good, especially his second one, he hasn’t had an official trial.

“He can do a few things wrong.

“He tends to have a good look around in the early stages.”

Price also pointed out that this is the time of the year when smart two-year-olds often emerge.

He knows others may pack a surprise with six of the eight horses being first starters.

The main aim for Starchine is $2m MM Classic (1200m) at the Gold Coast on January 14.

Later in the day, Price will produce three horses that have won their last-start  – Our Pride And Joy ($2), Stratigraphy ($3.50) and Lenore ($4.60).

Our Pride And Joy runs in the $70,000 Ros Ritchie Plate (1800m).

“I thought she was a mare who needed her runs well spaced, and she’s having her third run in 24 days so I’m going a little against my own plans,”  he said.

Price likes Stratigraphy in $70,000 East Malvern Bank (1200m).

“He’s improving all the time and he’s in a nice zone,” he said.

Lenore, in the $70.000 Sovereign Plate (1400m), won her last start at Wangaratta and Price is giving her a shot in town.

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