Gunstock was firing on all cylinders getting a lovely soft run before finishing home strongly for a two-length win in the Caulfield Classic 2021 results ahead of the Group 1 $2 million Victoria Derby (2500m) at Flemington on October 30.

Gunstock is onto the VRC Derby after a big win in the 2021 Caulfield Classic. Photo: Ultimate Racing Photos.

Handing Mick Price & Michael Kent (Jnr) their fifth win during the Caulfield Cup Carnival and second on the trot following the Ethereal Stakes win by their Oaks-bound filly Daisies, nicely-bred Tavistock colt Gunstock saluted for the punters as the $3.80 favourite through Ladbrokes.com.au in the Group 3 $200,000 Neds Caulfield Classic (2000m).

Bred to stay and bred for a wet track, the up-and-coming young stayer improved on a lead-up third behind the filly El Patroness in the Listed Super Impose Stakes (1800m) at Flemington on October 2 to win the traditional Derby lead-up.

The Super Impose winner El Patroness was the danger again in the rematch, jockey Brett Prebble pushing the daughter of Danny O’Brien-trained Shamus Award forward early up on the outside of leader Sharper.

At the half-way point Prebble took charge and raced up to challenge for the lead, eventually hitting the front 400m out.

Gunstock, ridden patiently by Jye McNeil, was in hot pursuit once on the home straight and surged to lead at the 100m from his last start conqueror.

In the end it was all Gunstock, the colt too strong charging through the line to post a two-length win having gotten a beautiful run one off the fence with cover throughout before getting three wide the turn and not having to be exposed until the straight.

El Patroness gave a good kick and was gallant in defeat, but the winner off the softer run was able to run her down and salute on his way to the Victoria Derby on Day 1 of the Melbourne Cup Carnival at HQ.

In third rounding out the trifecta was then the Archie Alexander-trained Teewaters.

“Fantastic. He wants further and a big track,” co-trainer Michael Kent (Jnr) told Racing Victoria after the race speaking of Gunstock.

“Blinkers on today and he didn’t overdo it which was good.

“I’ve always liked this horse. He’s a beautiful colt and hopefully we can keep it together now for the Derby.

“He’s a very laid-back customer…he has a huge stride and I really think Flemington will be his go.”

Polanski (2013) was the last horse to complete the Caulfield Classic – Victoria Derby double.

All-in Victoria Derby 2021 odds online at Ladbrokes.com.au on Gunstock to be the next have firmed in from $8 to $6 and are available in full here.

2021 Caulfield Classic Results & Finishing Order

Table Credit: Racing Australia.