McDonald has won every Group One weight-for-age race run so far during the Sydney autumn carnival, landing the Chipping Norton Stakes, Canterbury Stakes, Ranvet Stakes and George Ryder Stakes.
He won the George Ryder on To The World's travelling partner Real Impact, ensuring he speaks from a position of authority when it comes to the Japanese horses. His analysis will bring little comfort to bookmakers who have been hit hard since BMW betting was reopened after Wednesday's barrier draw.
To The World replaced Hartnell as favourite on Thursday and the four-year-old has moved closer to starting odds-on with further support yesterday. Hartnell has eased to $3.50 and is rated the only serious threat to To The World although Protectionist ($7) continues to be backed.
Trainer John O'Shea is hoping Hartnell sprints as well as fellow Godolphin import Contributer did in winning the Ranvet last week.
"We had to ride him a certain way [in the Sky High] to get the job done but I think he will be better ridden a bit quieter," O'Shea said. "He is as well as we can have him and now we're just hoping he is good enough."
Golden Slipper-winning jockey Tommy Berry rides the only three-year-old in the race when he partners the $51 outsider Hampton Court.
Berry has joined McDonald in claiming To The World is the horse to beat, citing Admire Rakti's Caulfield Cup win as further proof of Japan's strength in long-distance races.
"When it comes to a staying trip they've definitely got an edge on the Australian horses," Berry said. "I think you will see the best one yet to come in the BMW."
- AAP
