Hot favourite outshone by blowout Boy with promise
Canterbury produced an early winter surprise when outsider Autumn Boy upset hot favourite Central Coast in the Drinkwise Plate (1250m) on King’s Birthday Holiday racing.
Ridden confidently by Jason Collett, Autumn Boy ($51) showed an explosive sprint to overrun stablemate Central Coast, who was expected to dominate after being heavily supported through betting sites.
“He’s a lovely colt with a relaxed attitude. He does everything right at home but hasn’t been tested until now,” said Charlie Duckworth, representing the Chris Waller yard.
Autumn Boy was purchased for $200,000 by Chris Waller and agent Guy Mulcaster at the 2024 Magic Millions Yearling Sale. The colt is by The Autumn Sun, who famously claimed the Caulfield Guineas and Rosehill Guineas over 1600m and 2000m respectively.
“He was nice at the trials, but today’s run showed there’s more depth there,” Collett said. “The way he responded, I think he’ll stay further.”
His dam, Rosegarden, is by Savabeel, another renowned staying influence, adding to the colt’s long-distance credentials.
Later on the card, Pillow Fight gave Bjorn Baker another juvenile success. The Zoustar filly, purchased for $375,000, handled the 1250m well and is also tipped to improve over ground, according to stable rep Luke Hilton.
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