Progressive stayer Statuario confirmed himself a genuine South Australian Derby prospect with a commanding win in Saturday’s Listed Galilee Series Final (2400m) at Caulfield.
Trained by Emma-Lee and David Browne and ridden to perfection by John Allen, the grey gelding travelled sweetly throughout the $200,000 feature before letting down strongly at the top of the straight to register a convincing 2.25-length win at $1.65 odds with the horse racing bookmakers.
The victory marked his first attempt at the 2400m trip and ticked an important staying box ahead of a possible tilt at Morphettville next month.
Settling one-out, one-back in a slowly run race, Allen allowed the son of D’Argento to cruise into contention turning for home.
Once balanced up in the straight, Statuario surged past a fading Prince Pinot, kicked clear at the 200m and coasted to the line despite wandering late.
Politely Dun chased home for second, with Litzdeel grabbing third.
Listed Galilee Series Final Replay – Statuario
“He relaxed beautifully and travelled really well in the run,” Allen said.
“He felt strong through the line and handled the 2400m with no issues. I’d imagine the SA Derby is the logical target from here.”
It was a tactically smart steer from Allen, who kept the gelding off the fence early to avoid traffic and gave him every chance to settle and build momentum when it mattered.
The win was made more special by its dedication to late jockey Ricky Elvis Thurgood, with Allen acknowledging the importance of the race and sending his well wishes to the Thurgood family.
Co-trainer David Browne was thrilled with the result and hinted the team could now head straight to the Group 1 South Australian Derby (2500m) on May 4, where he is currently a $4 favourite with .
“He’s still got more to come,” Browne said.
“He hit the front early and floated a bit late, but he’ll take improvement from this. It’s great to know he stays the trip.”
With three wins and two placings from 10 starts, Statuario is now firmly on the radar as a serious Derby contender, and the stable will monitor how he pulls up before locking in their path to Morphettville.
“He’s still learning his craft,” Browne added.
“But he’s got a lovely staying profile and looks to be trending the right way.”
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