Chris and Corey Munce have found consolation for losing Cool Archie from Magic Millions contention through Zip Lock’s timely Eagle Farm victory.

The colt firmed sharply in betting for the $3 million Magic Millions 2YO Classic after taking out the Group 3 B.J. McLachlan Stakes (1200m).

Zip Lock had been an $11 chance for the January 17 feature but is now into $7 following the win.

After scoring on debut in November, the colt was freshened before returning six weeks later to beat hot favourite Tornado Valley.

“Credit to the horse after that freshen-up,” Chris Munce said.

“He had the trial the other day and he improved enormously off it. I guess we head to the Millions now.

“I said to owners that I wasn’t going to put a lot of emphasis on the Magic Millions because I had a lot of time for him.

“I thought he was going to be a winter two-year-old and a lovely three-year-old.”

Munce was also pleased for jockey Justin Huxtable.

“I think this was good for Justin,” Munce said.

“He’s been with our stable for a long time and he is a tall lad and he doesn’t ride too many bad ones.”

Purchased for $160,000 at the 2025 Gold Coast Yearling Sale, Zip Lock now aims to emulate past winners who have gone on to Magic Millions success.