The Caulfield Guineas is a well established Group 1 race for three-year-old horses, held each year at Caulfield Racecourse during the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival in October. The Caulfield Guineas is an historic event which has been run since 1881, and the premier event for three-year-olds for the Melbourne Racing Club. This highly anticipated race takes place during Caulfield Guineas Day, with three Group 1 races held on the same day along with some great supporting events.
The Caulfield Guineas became a Group 1 event in 1979, having started its life as a Principal Race. This special event is one of the most traditional races in the country, having never changed its name, length or location except during WWII. In 1945, the only dead heat in the history of this race took place when Attley and Royal Gem passed the finish post together.
A number of great horses have won the Caulfield Guineas over the years, with this race proving time and time again to be a great stepping stone for some of the countries best horses. Some of the notable champions to have won the Caulfield Guineas include Starspangledbanner in 2009, Weekend Hussler in 2007, Lonhro in 2001, Redoute’s Choice in 1999, and Mahogany in 1993. While it is not a particularly good indicator for either the Caulfield Cup or Melbourne Cup, some Caulfield Guineas winners have performed well in the WS Cox Plate over the years.
Looking further back into the history of this great event, other big name winners include Mahogany in 1993, winner of 8 Group 1 events; Red Anchor in 1984, winner of 4 Group 1 events; Manikato with 12 official Group 1 wins; Luskin Star in 1977 with 4 Group 1 wins; Cox Plate winner Surround in 1976; Vain in 1969, winner of 6 Group 1 events; Storm Queen in 1966 with 5 Group 1 wins; Tulloch in 1957 with 14 Group 1 wins; and Ajax II with 14 Group 1 wins.
The Caulfield Guineas has produced some great champions over the years, and continues to attract the best colts and geldings available and a number of more than capable fillies. This race is also known as a stallion making event, and has produced its fair share of stallions over its long history. An important part of the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival, the Caulfield Guineas is a great way to witness Australia’s finest horses and perhaps catch a glimpse of some future stars.
