Michael Dee will ride So Si Bon in the Caulfield Guineas
Robbie Laing is ruing Melbourne’s wet spring which has hindered the program of Caulfield Guineas runner So Si Bon.
The three-year-old son of So You Think lines up in Saturday’s Group One feature over 1600 metres and his trainer believes bookmakers are being generous with the $51 on offer.
So Si Bon only win so far is a maiden race on the Pakenham synthetic track two starts ago which on face value doesn’t look strong form.
But the colt caught the eye when sixth in the Guineas Prelude at Caulfield on September 24, running home late to finish 1-3/4 lengths from the winner Sacred Elixir.
“We were hoping he would have at least a midweek city win up his sleeve coming into Saturday,” Laing said.
“A month ago we were over at Sandown for a midweek race and we thought he could win, but we came home without racing.
“We had race trials also cancelled so we eventually had to go to the synthetic where he had a good win.
“His run in the Guineas Prelude was very similar to Missrock (in the Thousand Guineas Prelude).
“They both drew 12, he was near last before the corner, weaved his way through to be beaten just under two lengths.
“His sectionals were fantastic and being by So You Think you would think the mile would be right up his alley.”
So Si Bon has again drawn off the track on Saturday and Laing expects the colt to be back in the second half of the field.
But he’s hoping that come race eight the outside section in the straight may be the best spot.
So Si Bon will be having his fifth start on Saturday and Laing has plans to head to the Carbine Club Stakes at Flemington and the Sandown Guineas, although victory on Saturday may force a rethink.
“He’s bred to run 2000 metres, so we might go to the Vase at Moonee Valley and then have a think about the Derby,” Laing said.
“But he’ll be a better horse in the autumn as he’s still a bit light but very athletic.”
Sydney colts Impending ($4.40) and Divine Prophet ($4.80) head the betting while there has been early support for Sacred Elixir ($6.50) since Tuesday’s barrier draw.
