Ready to once again weave some magic

SHOWING a glimpse of his best last weekend, Aladdin is ready to once again weave some magic according to trainer Greg Norman.

Impressive when first arriving from New Zealand in early 2021, Aladdin won four of his first six starts, including the South Australia Derby.

Losing his way during his following campaign, which saw him limited to six starts in 2022, Aladdin provided a glimmer of hope when runner-up in last Saturday night’s Mount Gambier Cup.

Pleased with the gelding’s recovery, Norman has pressed ahead with his plans which will see Aladdin tackle Sunday’s Wangaratta Pacing Cup.

“He’s had his issues, but he seems to be getting back to where he was,” Norman said. “He didn’t do a lot of racing last season as we sorted a few things out and he has slowly been building his way back up this time in.

“I was very happy with his run at Mount Gambier and he has come through it in top shape.

“He’s had a handful of starts this time in and put in a couple of good runs, but last week was certainly his best effort.”

With Cameron Maggs to take the reins, Aladdin has drawn to settle forward from barrier two.

“It’s a good draw in a very winnable race,” Norman said. “Hopefully he can keep improving as I expect and will go very close again.”

Norman also has Blue Coman in the Trotters’ Cup, with the gelding aiming for his third provincial feature.

Winner of the Elmore and Gunbower Cups, Blue Coman is the sole starter on the 10-metre handicap.

“He’s also going well and is in a good position to get another win on the board,” Norman said.