Palentino wins 2016 Australian Guineas Group 1 $750,000 at Flemington (VIC) 3yo, 1600m.
Palentino put up a very good effort to score here after starting from the outside barrier (15). He was given an easy time in the early stages and settled in front of only two runners. He tracked up well (three wide with cover) from the 800m, pushed into clear running on passing the 400m, lifted gamely at the 100m and then fought really well to score in a photo. He then survived a protest from the runner-up for interference near the 400m.
Tarzino did not show any early pace, as expected and settled last place. He moved up, widest of all, rounding he home turn and sprinted quickly to challenge at the 100m. He then battled strongly for a very good second. He then protested unsuccessfully against the winner for trouble at the 400m.
Risque was a handy sixth, moved up under riding at the home turn, challenged at the 200m and then fought strongly for a really good third.
River Wild was midfield, between runners, got a split at the 300m and made late ground for (1.6 lengths) fourth.
Jameka ran nicely from barrier nine at the 800m for (2 lengths) for fifth while Vanbrugh also made ground, coming from 14th at the home turn.
Favourite Xtravagant was quickly away and led the field until into the home straight. But he then disappointed, tiring to finish eighth, beaten four and a half lengths.
