New Zealand colt It’s A Dundeel confirmed his affinity for Sydney racing when he beat arch-rival Proisir in the Group One Randwick Guineas at Warwick Farm on Saturday.
Adding the Guineas to his Group One Spring Champion Stakes win over Proisir at Randwick in the spring, It’s A Dundeel came from midfield with a dazzling burst of speed to win the $500,000 race.
The three-year-old raced in blinkers for the first time, allowing jockey James McDonald to settle his mount closer than usual in the run.
Instead of having to wind up from the back of the field, It’s A Dundeel was ready to pounce when the field straightened and he kept Proisir at bay from the 200m.
“He’s a class horse and he showed how much improvement he took out of that first run and the blinkers, they worked a treat,” McDonald said.
“He feels so strong much stronger and he put himself in the race and showed a real good turn of foot.
“For a High Chaparral colt only further is going to help him.”
Proisir made his run with the winner and he fought hard while the leader Tatra took the minor placing.
The favourite Rebel Dane was unplaced after racing behind the leader.