A top effort third-up in spring marked the best result yet for lightly raced three-year-old Green Spaces, whose camp seeks to mirror that program in the Rosehill Guineas.
The colt from Godolphin was outstanding, winning by three lengths in the Group 3 Spring Stakes (1600m) held at Newcastle in November, so trainer Bjorn Baker opted for a spell ahead of Sydney’s autumn action.
“He was exceptional third-up last time in the Spring Stakes at Newcastle, so we’re following that same path, although he’s up to 2000 (metres),” Baker said.
“Everything we see suggests that will suit him.
“Having said that, it’s going to be a tough race, no doubt about it. But he’s actually deceivingly fast, so if he can get a nice run in transit and relax, I’m sure he is going to be strong late.”
On return he pressed forward but faded for sixth in the Hobartville Stakes (1400m), subsequently settling rearward in the Randwick Guineas (1600m) to storm late into sixth after runaway Sheza Alibi.
Green Spaces is by Street Boss off Redoute’s Choice mare Outdoor, matching the cross that produced Godolphin’s 2022 Rosehill Guineas (2000m) victor Anamoe from Anamato, another by Redoute’s Choice.
He’s second in betting for the ATC Australian Derby (2400m), reflecting jockey Rachel King’s dedication as she cut short her Japan riding trip to partner him in a February gate test.
Baker concedes her faith elevates expectations.
“For sure it does. She believes in him. She always has,” he said.
“The way he has been galloping recently, it’s hard not to have a bit of confidence going into the Rosehill Guineas.”
In addition, Godolphin runs Ciaron Maher’s Observer in the classic on Saturday, the flawless Victoria Derby winner through two Melbourne outings, featuring his Group 1 Australian Guineas (1600m) last month.
Heading to Rosehill for his Sydney bow, he’s $2.70 next best to Autumn Boy ($2.10), with Green Spaces at $12.
Check out reliable racing betting markets ahead of the Rosehill Guineas.