A late-2025 plot unfolds when the Godolphin three-year-old colt Green Spaces joins the field for the ATC Australian Derby at Randwick.
Ever since his commanding Spring Stakes (1600m) conquest at Newcastle last November, his stable has aimed squarely at the classic, building the colt’s form this autumn.
Displaying finishing grunt in the Randwick Guineas (1600m) two runs prior, Green Spaces turned heads with a surging effort for second to Doncaster Mile candidate Autumn Boy during the Rosehill Guineas (2000m).
Unproven at the Derby’s 2400m on Saturday, trainer Bjorn Baker is encouraged by how the colt conserves energy en route, hinting at suitability despite pedigree doubts.
Bred Street Boss x Redoute’s Choice mare, akin to Anamoe who dominated mid-distances without Derby tests, his sire line includes standout sprinter Tempted and this Saturday’s TJ Smith Stakes (1200m) hope Tentyris.
“His pedigree may not suggest he’ll get the trip, but everything we see in terms of his type and how he can relax so well, that’s going to hold him in good stead,” Baker said.
“His run the other day was really good, especially considering they didn’t go as quick up front as I thought. He lost a bit of momentum on the corner, so to get out and run second was fantastic.
“He’s come through the tough races. As we assumed, he wasn’t super competitive at 14 (1400m) and a mile, even though we were very happy with him.
“But once up to 2000, he’s starting to come into his own and hopefully that trend continues up to 2400.”
Having partnered Lion Tamer to Victoria Derby glory, Baker seeks his first Sydney Derby prize.
Descended from Murray, the legendary Kiwi who won it fivefold, the race stirs family passion and Baker’s ambitions.
“It has been a very special race for my father and the family so it will be very special to have a live chance,” Baker said.
“You dream about winning it.”
Barrier six from 13 falls to Green Spaces in the big one, with regular mount Rachel King retained.
The duo excels in Sydney stayers, evidenced by their Sydney Cup (3200m) score last year with Arapaho.
Racing betting markets for the Australian Derby are live at premier racing odds providers.
