Racing: Message for Conners a simple one

John Singleton only asked one thing of horse Dear Demi - win the Magic Millions. Photo / Thinkstock

SYDNEY - Colourful owner John Singleton had one simple instruction for Clarry Conners.

"When he gave me the horse he said, 'I want her to win the Magic Millions. If you win the Slipper too that's okay but win the Magic Millions'," Conners said yesterday.

That horse was Dear Demi, who will stake her claim for a start in next month's Gold Coast showpiece when she steps out in the Magic Millions Wyong 2YO Classic (1100m) today.

The Conners-Singleton combination has already tasted success in the Gold Coast feature with Mirror Mirror five years ago.

Conners says his latest protege compares nicely to his former top youngsters, although being out of a Zabeel mare makes him suspect she might be better again next season.

"She's more precocious," Conners said. "She's a bigger, stronger filly than both of those fillies.

"Sometimes you think that might be great but she might be a 3-year-old. She might be better next prep."

Dear Demi finished fourth at her only start in the Gimcrack Stakes (1000m) during the spring when she was shuffled back but made good late ground.

"She drew out a bit and got a long way back which wasn't the plan," Conners said. "But she finished the race off terrific."

Dear Demi won a Warwick Farm barrier trial last week in preparation for the Wyong feature, which boasts a A$200,000 purse.

She was a $6.50 chance with TAB Sportsbet yesterday with Breeders Plate runner-up Hidden Warrior the $4 co-favourite alongside Adelaide colt Little Critter.

AAP