Gris Caro wins 2014 Jack London Naturalism Stakes Group 3 $150,000 at Caulfield (VIC), 2000m.
The SA-trained Gris Caro quickly crossed from his wide barrier (11) and then settled nicely in second place behind a steady tempo (first 1400m 1:27.76) before moving up nicely nearing the home turn. He took the lead at the 200m and then fought back gamely for a narrow but good win.
Entirely Platinum was fourth between runners until into the straight. He got a split to challenge at
the 100m and then fought on well for a good second, beaten only a short head. Bonfire led the field, setting a moderate early pace and fought back quite well in the straight for third.The outsider Albonettisurprised. He was last and under pressure in the 11-horse field nearing the 600m before switching wide on straightening. He then finished well in the sprint home for a very creditable fourth.
Ibicencowas just past midfield before making an early move, due to the slow pace, and then raced three deep outside the leading pair from the 800m. He then fought on soundly for a good fifth after his early
efforts.The favourite Spillway was seventh on the rails, looked for a run in the centre at the 300m but failed to get clear running until a very late stage for an unlucky (2.2 lengths) seventh.
