Black looking for Supremacy win

Bruce Stewart Journalist

Southland trainer Alister Black has had seven runners in the Alabar Southern Supremacy Stakes Final Over the last ten years.

The first was Six Diamonds in 2016 and the last was Captain Tom in 2023. His best results have been with Captain Tom and Idealism who both ran third.

This year Black lines up Cruise Maguire (Always B Miki) in one of the strongest most even fields assembled in a long time.

“He’s probably one of six that could win. It’s just going to come down to who gets a bit of luck,” Black said.

The three year old got tongues wagging when he won a trial at Ascot Park by twelve lengths. He then came out and won on debut before finishing second to Side Hustle in his following start.

“He was a little bit off colour. He came home and had a couple of coughs. I got a blood done and he had a little bit of a viral infection so I’ve treated that and that’s why I missed that last heat (of the Supremacy).”

Black took Cruise Maguire to the Winton Workouts last Friday where he won by three and a half lengths, running his last half in 56.5.

“He went nice and I was happy enough. I’ve changed a bit of gear and he’ll probably race with two poles on Sunday. I think that’s helped him a lot. He just lacks a bit of ringcraft but he is getting there.”

Cruise Maguire hasn’t been given any favours with the barrier draw, starting on the outside of the front row.

“It is what it is. I’ll just leave that up to Brad (Williamson).”