ear-olds, set weights, 1600m.
HISTORY
First run in 1881
Notable winners include Heroic (1924); Ajax (1937); Tulloch (1957); Vain (1969); Surround (1976); Luskin Star (1977); Manikato (1978); Grosvenor (1982); Red Anchor (1984); Mahogany (1993); Redoute’s Choice (1999); Lonhro (2001) and All Too Hard (2012).
Skalato was first-past-the-post in 2000 but disqualified after returning positive swab.
Helenus in 2002 was the last horse to claim the Caulfield Guineas-Victoria Derby double.
Red Anchor in 1984 was the last horse to complete the Guineas-Cox Plate double in the same season. In 2013 Shamus Award was placed in the Caulfield Guineas before winning the Cox Plate.
KEY COMMENTS
“I think the thing with this horse is that he’s very tractable, he can race on the pace, midfield, wherever you want him to be.” Trainer Chris Waller on the favourite Press Statement.
“I think we’ve got him cherry ripe. I think he’ll be genuine.” Trainer Mick Price on the application of blinkers to second favourite Ready For Victory.
“It’s a great thrill and a privilege to have an opportunity to ride in the Caulfield Guineas.” Jockey Daniel Stackhouse on a rare chance to ride in a Group One race. He rides Bassett for Peter Moody.
PATTERN
A big field which should ensure good speed. New Zealand visitor Dal Cielo led them up in the Guineas Prelude and from the draw is sure to be forward. Fitted with blinkers, Ready For Victory should be handier in the run. Lizard Island has a nice draw and won’t be too far away. A wide gate makes it tricky for favourite Press Statement but he may be able to slot in to a midfield position.
RECENT HISTORY
Shooting To Win (2014) won at fifth run of campaign. Claimed Stan Fox Stakes in lead-up.
Long John (2013) won at fourth run of campaign. Came off a 1400m win at Flemington and a third in Guineas Prelude.
All Too Hard (2012) was having fourth run of campaign. Ran fourth in weight-for-age George Main Stakes at previous start.
Helmet (2011) also won at fourth run of campaign after taking out the Guineas Prelude .
Anacheeva (2010) was undefeated in two lead-up runs over 1200m at Moonee Valley and in the Guineas Prelude.
