Races

Rising stars ready to shine in the Golden Rose 

This Saturday, Rosehill Gardens hosts one of the most anticipated races of the Sydney Spring—the $1 million Group 1 Golden Rose for three-year-olds. Known as a stallion-making race, the 1400m contest has launched the careers of champions and often serves as a springboard to further Group 1 success. Several Golden Rose winners have gone on to claim the Caulfield Guineas – most recently Ole Kirk in 2018. Savabeel defied the odds in 2004, famously completed the rare double by winning the Cox Plate. 

This year the field is stacked with talent, and the form lines are clear thanks to two major lead-up races: the Run To The Rose and the Ming Dynasty Quality. 

From the Run To The Rose, Tempted stamped herself as a serious contender with a sharp turn-of-foot to win the race, aiming to defy history as a filly in a race traditionally dominated by colts. Her Godolphin stablemate Beiwacht was brave in defeat, finishing second and showing he’s ready to peak third-up. Skyhook, winner of The Rosebud, continues to build momentum and maps well for a strong finish. Nepotism struggled to find rhythm last start but has a proven record over the Rosehill 1400m and boasts a pedigree linked to Golden Rose royalty. Wodeton, State Visit and Rivellino all showed glimpses of form and fitness, with Wodeton expected to improve over the extra distance. 

The Ming Dynasty Quality also produced two key runners: Sixties, who stormed home to win impressively, and Autumn Boy, who profiles as a top Caulfield Guineas contender. Autumn Boy adds blinkers for the first time, a gear change that could sharpen him up for his first crack at a Group 1. 

In terms of race dynamics, Tempted and Autumn Boy have firmed in betting, while Beiwacht and Skyhook remain solid each-way plays. It’s expected to be run at a genuine tempo, with several on-speed runners likely to push forward early, setting it up for strong closers like Sixties and Rivellino. 

With a mix of proven performers, emerging stars, and tactical intrigue, the 2025 Golden Rose promises a thrilling contest. Whether you’re backing the filly with flair, the colt with class, or the improver with upside, this race will shape the Spring narrative and possibly reveal Australia’s next champion. 

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