Testashadow has earned a start in the $1 million Magic Millions Guineas with a hair-raising victory in the Cellarbrations Hcp (1400m) at Rosehill.

The Testa Rossa gelding had Saturday’s race all sewn up before clocking off close to the line.  Runner-up Tree Of Jesse rallied to go down a nose in a deceptive finish.

“He gets to the front and feels the job is done,” winning rider Tim Clark said.  “I hit the front and the other one was going nowhere.  Luckily, he spotted that horse on the inside.”

Testashadow (3g Testa Rossa – Moonlight Shadow by Flying Spur) is raced by Elite Thoroughbreds after changing hands for $50,000 at the 2013 Gold Coast Magic Millions.  His dam is closely related to G1 Coolmore Stud Stakes winner Zoustar.

“I’ve never had a horse switch off like that,” trainer Gary Portelli said.  “It might be just inexperience but he’s a fighter.

“The plan has always been the Magic Millions.  Today’s win is a bonus – he will be peaking for the Guineas in three weeks.

Vinery sire Testa Rossa has 16 yearlings entered for the Magic Millions and Testashadow also has a half-sister by Written Tycoon (Lot 463) catalogued for the Gold Coast Sale.