Extra Brut to show his class in G1 Guineas

Victoria Derby winner Extra Brut will try to add the Australian Guineas to his Group One tally.

Jockey Michael Walker expects Extra Brut to show what a classy colt he is in the Australian Guineas at Flemington.

Already a Group One winner of the Victoria Derby last spring, Extra Brut is a $19 chance in latest markets on Saturday’s 1600m-race for three-year-olds.

Extra Brut had his first autumn start when 10th in the C S Hayes Stakes from an inside gate which Walker said worked against him .

“The other day he ran super but he was only getting to his top gear as the race was over,” Walker said.

“He’ll be out the back and looking to come out wide and I think he’s going to run terrific and show everyone what a top class colt he is.

“The feel he’s given me every time I’ve sat on him is he’s a very classy colt.”

David Eustace, who trains the three-year-old in partnership with Ciaron Maher, is looking forward to Saturday’s race with Extra Brut who is a newcomer to the stable after being transferred from the disqualified Darren Weir.

“He loves his work. He eats, sleeps, does everything right,” Eustace said.

“He did a strong piece of work on Saturday morning on the course proper and did a maintenance piece of work during the week as well as a trip to the beach to keep him ticking over.

“He was unlucky last time not getting that galloping room he needs.

“He’s drawn in the middle. We’ll try and stay out of trouble and hopefully hit the line strong.”

Eustace said victory on Saturday should be enough to get Extra Brut a start in the All-Star Mile at Flemington on March 16.

“We’d like to get in the All-Star Mile but if we don’t we’ll back up into the Australian Cup,” Eustace said.

The Australian Cup will be run on Saturday week over 2000m at Flemington.