2026 Caulfield Guineas Preview

For me, it’s hard to look past WARWOVEN (2)  following his authoritative Golden Rose victory. The Bjorn Baker-trained colt ran his rivals into the ground in the Group 1 feature, powering home over the final furlong to score by three lengths. By Sword Of State and out of a staying mare, he was very strong through the line and looks ideally suited by the step up to a mile.

The only slight query is the Melbourne direction, with all his races and trials to date having been clockwise. However, Baker has an excellent record when preparing horses for Victorian assignments and I don’t think this will be any different.

BLIND RAISE (5) commands respect after an emphatic win in the Guineas Prelude, where he appeared to have plenty in hand. He has now won four of his five starts, with his sole defeat coming in the Group 2 Sires’ Produce at Eagle Farm but there were clear excuses that day, as he pulled up with a slow recovery and nasal discharge. The Trent Busuttin and Natlie Young trained gelding hasn’t put a hoof wrong since and has continued to improve.

He draws to get the gun run here under Blake Shinn and the rise to 1600m looks ideal for this son of Ace High.

WOLF GAP (9) was terrific first-up in the McKenzie Stakes, charging home from the tail to finish second behind Blind Raise. The Anthony and Sam Freeeman trained colt was given little hope second up but produced another brave effort, finishing alongside the placegetters after making an early, wide move around the field. Now at peak fitness, I think he’ll relish the rise in trip and be very strong late.

SOMETHING’S BURNIN’ (8) is one of four runners representing the Chris Waller yard as the champion trainer chases a fifth Caulfield Guineas triumph. The colt loomed to win last start in the Stutt Stakes, only to be caught on the line by Diametre. An impressive first-up winner on the Lakeside circuit, the Too Darn Hot colt has had a lot go his way since. He raced a touch keenly last time before laying in over the concluding stages, ultimately costing himself victory.

A Norton bit replaces the lugging bit and could make all the difference here. Ben Melham has ridden him at his past two starts and now has a good understanding of the colt. From the low draw, he can tuck in behind the speed and be saved for one last crack at them.