The Magic in Merlin shines again at Alexandra Park

By Jordyn Bublitz

The magic in Merlin shone bright under the Friday night lights at Alexandra Park, as the Entire backed up his stellar IRT New Zealand Cup and New Zealand FFA performances with a commanding victory in the Group 2 Lincoln Farms Franklin Cup. 

If there were any questions about how he’d come through his cup week runs, they were answered within moments of the tapes releasing.

Merlin is not only in the zone, he’s tracking perfectly toward his summer grand final.

The win ticks an important box in his Auckland Cup preparation. With only three weeks to go until the prestigious 3200m feature, Merlin’s Franklin Cup success acts as the ideal stepping stone, tightening the screws while showcasing the same professionalism and toughness that have become his trademarks.

With his regular pilot Zachary Butcher in the sulky, the pair made light work of their 20m handicap, stepping smartly and rolling forward early. From there the result felt almost inevitable. 

He fought off several late challengers in the run home, digging in to score by half a length, a margin that reflects a horse doing exactly what he needed to without being asked for more than required.

Zachary, who has been in the sulky for many of Merlin’s career highlights, was rapt with yet another top-shelf performance.

“It was a good field, and he had to step quick from the 20m mark and do the work in front,” he told Trackside’s Nicole Sims post-race.

“Those closing sectionals were pretty sharp. He’s just such a cool horse. He’s been good all the way through and he’s a credit to Barry, Scotty and their whole team.

To have a horse like Merlin racing as well as he is year after year, it’s a huge feat, and I just love the little guy.”

Co-trainer Scott Phelan echoed that confidence and pride, noting the stable had gone into the Franklin Cup quietly upbeat.

“He’d been working really good. We couldn’t fault him heading in,” Phelan said. “We’ll see how he comes through this run. He might have a trial the week before the Cup, and we’ll just go from there, enough to keep him ticking over.”

There’s plenty of reassurance in his recovery too, with travel, cup week and Friday’s assignment showing no signs of taking a toll.

“He’s pulled up great, couldn’t fault him. He’ll take benefit from the run. Now it’s onto the Auckland Cup.”

For fans and punters, Merlin’s consistency has become one of the most enjoyable storylines in the open-class ranks.

Season after season, track to track, he shows up, puts in, and delivers the type of honest, high-class racing that has earned him a loyal following. 

With the Auckland Cup now squarely on the horizon, his latest win suggests he’s exactly where he needs to be.

If the magic continues, the next chapter could be his most exciting yet.