Balding eyes Caulfield Cup after Bellum Justum’s Jockey Club Stakes win

Andrew Balding’s successful history with Australian racing could continue this spring, as Bellum Justum qualified for the prestigious Caulfield Cup after a dominant victory in the Group 2 Jockey Club Stakes (2414m).

The four-year-old colt, ridden by star jockey Oisin Murphy, impressed with a strong finishing kick to secure the win.

His performance followed a disappointing run in the John Porter Stakes earlier this year.

“He’s a high-class horse, got some good form from last year,” Balding said after the race.

“We’re delighted because he was a very big disappointment in the John Porter (Stakes), so it’s good to see him back on track.”

While Balding has mapped out future plans for the colt, he did not mention any immediate trips to Australia, though the Hardwicke Stakes and Royal Ascot are next on the agenda.