Publish Date: March 23, 2026
Golden Slipper Aftermath: Guest House to the Sires?
The Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr-trained Guest House ($11) has pulled up “enormously” well following his 1.3-length victory in the $5 million Group 1 Golden Slipper.
- The Path Forward: Connections have indicated that the son of Home Affairs will likely head toward the Group 1 Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) at Randwick on April 4.
- The Beaten Brigade: Pre-race favourite Chayan was found to be slightly “shinsore” following her 8th-place finish. Trainer Annabel Archibald has confirmed the filly will be sent to the paddock for a well-earned spell, missing the remainder of the autumn.
James McDonald: 131 and Counting
After claiming a hat-trick of Group 1s on Saturday (Aeliana, Autumn Boy, and Autumn Glow), James McDonald has officially moved to 131 career elite-level wins—two clear of the legendary Damien Oliver.
The “J-Mac” juggernaut shows no signs of slowing down. He is booked for a full suite of rides at Randwick this weekend, including the ride on Autumn Glow as she looks to extend her unbeaten streak to 12 in the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m). Analysts are already speculating if she can clean sweep the Triple Crown for fillies.
Flemington Focus: The Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m)
All eyes return to Melbourne this Saturday for the $3 million Australian Cup at Flemington.
- The Market Leader: Following the weekend’s results, Birdman has firmed into $3.00 favouritism. Chris Waller’s import has been the best-backed runner since his dominant Peter Young Stakes win.
- The Challenger: Champion mare Pride of Jenni ($4.50) is the primary threat. Trainer Ciaron Maher confirmed she completed a “sensational” piece of work at Cranbourne this morning and is primed for the 2000m test.
- The “Weight” Factor: Handicappers are noting that Buckaroo ($6.00) meets several rivals better at the weights under the Weight-For-Age conditions compared to previous handicap encounters.
Industry News: Record Wagering Turnover
Racing NSW and Racing Victoria have reported preliminary wagering figures for Saturday, showing a 7.2% year-on-year increase in total turnover. Despite cost-of-living pressures, the “Super Saturday” format—pitting five Sydney Group 1s against the William Reid in Melbourne—continues to drive massive engagement from the punting public.
Monday Best Bets: Mornington & Queanbeyan
For those looking for a midweek fill-up, today’s provincial meetings offer some sharp opportunities:
- Mornington (VIC): Race 5, No. 2 – Brazen Style. Drops back in grade significantly and has an excellent second-up record.
- Queanbeyan (NSW): Race 3, No. 1 – Field Of Myrtle. Was unlucky not to score at Goulburn last start; maps to lead and dictate here.