Trainer Darren McAuliffe will almost certainly saddle up one of the favourites for this year’s WA Guineas (November 24th), following the resounding win of his Snippetson gelding Rebelson in the listed Fairetha Stakes 1400m.
Unwanted in the market, Rebelson ($5.50 – $7.00) was settled midfield in running by hoop Jason Whiting, allowing race favourite Virtual Trader ($2.80) to dictate terms up front. Tempestuous Strike ($8.50) and El Rijes ($31.00) were also prominent, while Dominating ($7.50) through its head around early – obviously not happy with the muddling pace to the race. Trapped on the rail passing the 400m, Whiting extricated his mount off the fence with a clinical move, and stormed home over the final furlong for an easy victory.
Dominating ($7.50) recovered well from a torrid run throughout to claim second, while “up and comer” Apocalyse Now ($13.00) charged home from seventh on the turn to finish third. The margins 1¾ and 2¾ lengths respectively.
It was win number four from eight career starts for the classy three year old, and its second salute over the 1400m trip. The Group 2 WA Guineas will see Rebelson carry 56½ kgs and step back up to 1600m – the distance it lead and won over last start at Belmont carrying a whopping 57½ kgs.
Chris Blackwell
www.ozracing.com.au