Class colt El Castello continued his remarkable winning streak, capturing the prestigious Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) at Randwick on Saturday.

This dominant victory positions him as the early favorite for next week’s Group 1 Victoria Derby (2500m) at Flemington with the youngster into $4 through Ladbrokes to do the double for the first time since Ace High (2017).

Trainer Anthony Cummings and jockey Josh Parr celebrated in style, securing their third Spring Champion Stakes wins apiece but their first combined.

Parr expertly navigated El Castello ($3F), settling him comfortably in second the inside before making a decisive move in the straight.

El Castello responded beautifully, surging past rivals and asserting his dominance inside the final 300m.

The Anthony & Sam Freedman-trained Henlein put up a valiant fight, pushing El Castello to the finish.

However, El Castello’s superior stamina proved too good, allowing him to secure the victory for the punters.

The Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald-trained Firm Agreement, who impressed with his pre-race appearance, delivered a surprising late surge, securing third place at $21 to complete the Spring Champion Stakes trifecta on the back of a Gloaming third.

El Castello’s victory marks him as the second horse in three years (following Sharp ‘N’ Smart in 2022) to complete the coveted Gloaming Stakes – Spring Champion Stakes double.

He also emerges as a strong contender for the 2024 Victoria Derby, with Ladbrokes currently listing him as the $4 favorite.

While acknowledging the Derby as the plan, Cummings emphasised the importance of monitoring El Castello’s recovery.

“Standing here today, the decision is yes,” Cummings told the media.

“But we’ve got to get him home and make sure that he’s OK and tick a fair few boxes before we do that.

“But that was the plan. The preparation was set up so that today’s race would give him the step to go to the Derby. Looks like that will happen.”

El Castello’s victory in the Spring Champion Stakes adds another chapter to the race’s rich history.

His potential pursuit of the Spring Champion Stakes – Victoria Derby interstate double could further solidify his place in Australian racing lore.

2024 Spring Champion Stakes Results

Table Credit: Racing Australia.

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