Antino dominates Group 1 Doomben Cup as Gollan eyes Cox Plate

Antino, guided by jockey Blake Shinn and trained by Tony Gollan, delivered a commanding victory in the Group 1 Doomben Cup (2000m), solidifying his status as a formidable middle-distance performer.

The race unfolded as Antino circled the field effortlessly, reminiscent of his recent triumph in the Group 2 Hollindale Stakes (1800m).

The dual Group 1 winner showcased exceptional form over the 2000-metre distance, leaving rivals like Fawkner Park and Kovalica trailing in his wake.

Gollan, reflecting on Antino’s career-best performance, expressed confidence in the horse’s ability to excel in weight-for-age races, particularly highlighting his upcoming spring target, the Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m).

“His style of racing suits a race like that,” Gollan remarked.

“He’s stamped himself as one of Australia’s best weight-for-age horses.”

Blake Shinn, who rode Antino to victory, praised the horse’s ability to accelerate decisively when needed.

“Antino told me when he wanted to get rolling about the half mile, and it was time to go,” Shinn explained.

“He went from being about seven lengths off them to having the race at his mercy very quickly.”

The race marked a milestone for both Gollan and Shinn, with Shinn securing his fourth Doomben Cup win and the race being run in record time.

The victory was celebrated by punters and racing enthusiasts alike, with Antino now firmly positioned as a contender for the Cox Plate, where he is currently the second favorite at $8 with horse racing bookmakers.

In post-race reflections, Ciaron Maher, trainer of Pride Of Jenni, acknowledged Antino’s dominance while evaluating his own horse’s performance.

“Pride Of Jenni didn’t run to her best,” Maher admitted, planning to debrief with owner Tony Ottobre on future strategies.

2025 Group 1 Doomben Cup Replay – Antino

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