Waller out to make another stallion in the 2025 Caulfield Guineas
Chris Waller’s stable is poised for another big spring highlight, with Wodeton heading betting for Saturday’s $3 million Group 1 Caulfield Guineas (1600m).
The $1.6 million Magic Millions colt has finished second in both the Golden Slipper and Golden Rose, and a Group 1 win would further elevate his already significant stallion value — particularly after the recent death of his sire Wootton Bassett.
“It doesn’t change the way I train him,” Waller said. “Obviously it would be a fantastic result, but we’re under pressure to get winners all year — there’s no change just because his stallion died.”
Waller, who also part-owns Wodeton, believes the colt’s pedigree will help him handle the mile. “We had to decide whether to drop back in trip or head to The Everest, but I think the Guineas is his race,” Waller said. “The Wootton Bassett stock can run any distance. Getting him out to the mile might just bring out his best.”
The champion trainer also saddles Autumn Boy — by The Autumn Sun, Waller’s 2018 Caulfield Guineas winner — who is looking to bounce back after an unplaced Golden Rose run. “He’s a lovely-moving horse, a great type and has a great attitude,” Waller said. “The Golden Rose wasn’t run to suit him, but his sectionals were solid and he’ll love the mile.”
Autumn Boy will start from barrier one, while Wodeton has drawn gate 10 but could move to eight if emergencies come out. James McDonald retains the ride on Wodeton, with Damian Lane to partner Autumn Boy — the same jockey who won last year’s Guineas aboard Private Life.
For full markets and the latest odds on the Caulfield Guineas, check out Australia’s best betting sites.
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