Boom New Zealand colt Cauthen is back on track for the Caulfield Guineas with a convincing win in the Listed $120,000 Essendon Nissan McKenzie Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley today.
Kiwi 3yo Cauthen is back in the winner's list at Moonee Valley. Photo by Race Horse Photos.
Cauthen created a huge impression with an eight and a half lengths win on debut at Te Rapa but was beaten at his first Australian start when second to Clevadude at Moonee Valley three weeks ago.
But a more mature three year old was able to regain his winning form with a one and a half lengths win over Shamus Award with Long John running on for third.
James McDonald was happy to let Cauthen ($2.60 favourite) settle just off the pace after being a little slow to leave the barriers, but the three year old was always travelling well.
McDonald started his move just before the home turn and once heads were turned for home Cauthen was never in trouble of being beaten and scored a comfortable win.
Kiwi trainer Andrew Campbell was relieved that Cauthen was able to show his true ability and will now push on towards a start in the Group 1 $1m BECK Caulfield Guineas (1600m) at Caulfield on October 12.
“It was pleasing to see him do that today, it makes life easier for us now,” Campbell said.
“That was a perfect ride. He’s a great rider,” Campbell said referring to McDonald’s winning ride.
Cauthen’s next run will be the Listed $120,000 Henry Bucks Best Dressed Stakes (1400m) at Flemington on September 7 then have his final Caulfield Guineas lead up run in the Group 3 $175,000 BECK Caulfield Guineas Prelude (1400m) at Caulfield on September 29.
