Trainer Mick Price is anxiously looking to the Autumn with Eximius after the three year old scored an upset win in the Listed $150,000 Hilton Hotels Stakes (1400m) at Flemington today.

Eximius

Eximius was a long priced winner in the Listed Hilton Hotels Stakes. Photo by: Race Horse Photos Australia

Eximus was having his fourth run this campaign and really appreciated the step up 1400m for the first time and Price believes the gelding could extend further to 1600m in the Autumn.

“I think he will be a better horse in the Autumn. He’s one of those high nervous energy type horses that need to settle down,” Price said.

“He had a little sweat up in the mounting yard, but probably the ride was a pretty big contributor to the result. There was just good pace on, he was in exactly the right spot. It’s great.”

“I think he will get a mile in the Autumn for sure. It will be interesting to see what we do with him now. These black type races drop off now and his rating is going to go a bit higher, it might be a nice  opportune time to have a break with this beautiful weather and have him in the Autumn. We have to chase the black type now.”

Even though Eximius was only Glen Boss’ second winner over the Melbourne Cup Carnival, the top jockey showed that he is still on the top of his game with a well-judged ride.

Boss settled Eximius just behind the leaders and eased the three year old out on the home turn before joining the leaders at the 300m and held on to score by a neck from Limes who fought on well in the run to the line.

“I really like this horse,” Boss said.

“His run behind Snitzerland was very good. He needed the run badly and I said to connections I can’t wait to get this horse to seven furlongs and possibly a mile. I’ve really got a soft spot for this horse and I think he is going to go places for Mick and his connections.”

Eximius was just another long priced winner to score over the Carnival and started at the good odds of $26 in beating the best of Peter Snowden’s four runners, Limes ($14) and Gold Medals at $17.

Snowden also saddled up the favourite Generalife ($5) who ran a fair race to finish in fifth spot.

About The Author

Mark Mazzaglia

Mark is a passionate journalist with a life-time involvement in the racing industry. He spent many years as an analyst and form expert at the Courier Mail and also has hands-on experience working with some of Queensland’s top trainers.