Shangri La Boy too speedy in the 2025 Gloaming Stakes

Shangri La Boy took a major step towards Group 1 glory, leading throughout to claim Saturday’s $500,000 Group 3 Gloaming Stakes (1800m) at Rosehill Gardens for Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott.

A $4.60 chance, the half-brother to former juvenile star Storm Boy showed superior stamina, dictating from the front to win by two lengths over The Pearls ($61) with San Giovanni ($20) close behind in third. The three-year-old’s next target will be the $2 million Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) at Randwick in two weeks.

“He’s obviously got some great staying capabilities,” Bott said. “Storm Boy was an exceptional sprinter, but this horse has always shaped as a genuine stayer. This is just his third start and to do that stepping up to 1800m is impressive.”

Bott revealed the colt was earmarked for middle-distance targets early on. “Being by Pierro, you’d expect that,” he said. “From day one he’s looked a classic type, very strong and composed.”

After jumping from 1400m to 1800m in 10 days, Bott said the decision to push on to the Spring Champion was straightforward. “We have to,” he said. “He’s earned the opportunity — it was a proper test and he came through it superbly.”

Jockey Adam Hyeronimus praised the colt’s attitude. “He finds his rhythm straight away, relaxes beautifully and has a sharp turn of foot,” he said. “He’s a professional and keeps improving every time.”

Following the win, Shangri La Boy firmed to $6 equal second favourite for the Spring Champion Stakes, trailing only Attica ($3.50). For betting tips and the latest odds, visit Australia’s top betting sites.