James McDonald is in no doubt Impending is a genuine Caulfield Guineas contender
THE CAULFIELD GUINEAS – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
HISTORY:
First run 1881 when won by Wheatear. Twice decided by a protest: 1979 Bold Diplomat relegated to second to Runaway Kid; 1987 Marwong promoted to first over Our Poetic Prince.
SOME BIG NAME WINNERS:
All Too Hard (2012); Lonhro (2001); Redoute’s Choice (1999); Mahogany (1993); Red Anchor (1984), Grosvenor (1982), Manikato (1978); Luskin Star (1977); Surround (1976); Vain (1969); Tulloch (1957); Ajax (1937), Heroic (1924).
TALKING POINTS:
* Skalato first-past-the-post in 2000 but disqualified after returning positive swab
* Helenus in 2002 last to claim Caulfield Guineas-Victoria Derby double
* Red Anchor in 1984 last horse to complete Guineas-Cox Plate double in same season.
* Impending’s sire Lonhro won in 2001 and his dam Mnemosyne won the 2005 Thousand Guineas.
WHAT THE KEY PLAYERS ARE SAYING:
“I love this horse His performances so far have been very good and I think he’s the one to beat”- Favourite Impending’s jockey James McDonald.
“This is his first attempt at 1600 metres but I really feel like he’s been looking for it” – Good Standing’s trainer James Cummings.
“Before the Prelude he had never actually raced left handed. He’s obviously had a practice around Caulfield. He’s going to be a lot more effective at a mile and obviously he’ll improve fitness-wise” – Sacred Elixir’s trainer Tony Pike.
