Rory Hunter’s promising stayer Autumn Mystery has announced himself as a genuine Victoria Derby contender after securing back-to-back wins with a thrilling victory in Saturday’s Group 3 Caulfield Classic (2000m) at Caulfield.
The breakthrough success came just three weeks after his maiden win in the Victoria Derby Preview (1800m) at Flemington, confirming his rise through the staying ranks. Now, with two on the trot, Autumn Mystery has vaulted to the second line of betting for the November 1 Derby, giving his Mornington-based trainer every reason to dream big.
“We’ll just see how he pulls up over the next couple of days, the horse is more important than anything, but it’s sensational,” Hunter said.
“It’d be a boyhood dream, that’s for sure. This horse is a star. He’s still six months away from being the best of him. It’s just incredible.”
Ridden by Blake Shinn, Autumn Mystery produced a composed yet powerful performance, sneaking through along the inside rail to outstay his rivals in a strong Derby lead-up. The son of The Autumn Sun ($4.60) prevailed by three-quarters of a length over Miewa ($4.20), with Amazake ($26) a close third, while pre-race favourite Engine Of War ($2.70) faded to seventh, four lengths adrift.
“It was a great win, he ran the 2000 out and bring on the Derby,” Shinn said.
The win continues a breakout preparation for Hunter, who only began training in 2022 and is chasing his first Stakes triumph during the Melbourne Spring Carnival.
In the fillies’ division, the Ethereal Stakes provided another Derby-week storyline, with Queanbeyan filly Spicy Lu denying favourite Just A Journey ($2.40) by three-quarters of a length. Trained by Nick Olive, Spicy Lu — a daughter of Blue Diamond winner Tagaloa — now shapes as a leading VRC Oaks prospect.
“Running second in the Caulfield Cup with Single Gaze was probably the biggest thrill of my career, but it’s great to get a win down here,” Olive said.
“She’s just had no luck in her runs down here, it’s been so frustrating, but it’s great to get the job done today.”
For the latest odds and bookmaker offers on the Victoria Derby and other spring features, visit Australia’s top betting sites — the most searched platforms for horse racing markets and promotions during the Melbourne Spring Carnival.