The Black Prince reigns in Newcastle Mile

Trainer Roy Roots jnr knew there was a big win in The Black Prince (bred by Studholme Bloodstock, Bettor's Delight x My Style) and on Friday night he delivered on the promise when he claimed the group 1 Newcastle Mile and a ticket into the $1 million Miracle Mile.

Third in the race last year to announce himself as a group 1 contender, The Black Prince made the most of a smart drive from Robbie Morris to take the inside run in the straight and power to a 2.7 metre win in 1:51:1.

The Black Prince, the 2018 Newcastle Horse of The Year, sat behind early leader and favourite Turn It Up before producing the finishing burst. Western Sonador was second and Bright Energy, with Louth Park reinsman aboard, was third.

Former Keinbah-based trainer Roots jnr, who now trains on the Central Coast, told the Newcastle Herald on Thursday that The Black Prince was capable of a major victory with the right run and he was in career-best form.

He was produced first-up in the $100,000 race with an eye to Miracle Mile qualifiers next week at Menangle, but he now has a place in the race.