In a fairytale result that defines the spirit of the Magic Millions sales series, the Ciaron Maher-trained colt Unit Five transformed an $80,000 purchase price into a $3 million payday with a breathtaking victory in the Magic Millions 2YO Classic at the Gold Coast Turf Club.
A Historic Run From An Awkward Spot
The race unfolded dramatically for the $8.50 chance, who found himself in a tricky position soon after the start. Jockey Tom Stockdale was forced to settle near the rear of the field and close to the rail, seemingly putting the horse out of contention. However, as the field rounded the home turn, Stockdale made a crucial decision. He initially eased his mount away from the fence before capitalising on a gap that opened along the inside rail when other riders shifted out.
Seizing the opportunity, Unit Five darted through with a powerful surge, hitting the front with just 130 metres left to run. The son of Supido then showed tremendous courage, extending his margin to win by more than a length. The victory was made even sweeter for the Maher stable as their other runner, the favourite Tornado Valley ($4.20), finished second, with By Choice ($12) filling the third placing.
Records and Emotional Tributes After the Race
The win was historic, as Unit Five became the first horse ever to win the rich Magic Millions 2YO Classic at just his second career start. The colt is named in honour of the late Widden Stud manager Dave Merrick, whose police call sign was 'Unit Five'. For winning jockey Tom Stockdale, the moment was doubly emotional, with his wife at home heavily pregnant with their first child.
"I always thought he'd be a nice horse competing in nice races, but you've still got to see it on the day," Stockdale said post-race. "He was the ultimate professional... What they have done for me is unbelievable." Trainer Ciaron Maher, who secured his third victory in the race after previous successes with Away Game (2020) and Coolangatta (2022), admitted he thought Tornado Valley was his stronger hope. He praised Stockdale's ride and credited his brother Declan for his support with the stable's Gold Coast operations.
Guineas Drama and Women in Racing Bonus
The day's other feature, the $3 million Magic Millions 3YO Guineas, provided its own drama. Torque To Be Sure ($14) broke his maiden status at his 11th start, but only after surviving a protest from the badly hampered hot favourite, Ninja. Stewards deliberated intensely before deciding the three-quarter-length winning margin was too great to alter the result.
Earlier on the program, a significant milestone for women in racing was celebrated. Despite finishing ninth, the filly Tigroni ($41) earned a $325,000 bonus for being the first horse across the line that is wholly owned by a syndicate of women, part of the Magic Millions Racing Women initiative.
The 2025 Magic Millions carnival once again delivered high stakes, record-breaking performances, and unforgettable stories, cementing its place as a pinnacle of Australian summer racing.
