South Australian Derby 2026:
Gee this is an open race! The short fave is first emergency and I have to take it on if it runs anyway. May be a star but may also be flattered off the heavy track domination last start. Happy to be proven wrong but not keen on his price at all.
Think the fillies have a huge chance in (14) AFTER SUMMER and (15) SILVASISTA.
AFTER SUMMER has the horrible gate but she is a ripper. 2nd up she was a lip of Belle Cheval and then strong late in the G1 Oaks in Sydney. Rock hard fit, has class and just needs a good ride from the gate. SILVASISTA won the VRC St Legr on Anzac day so a quick back up and back to 2500m. She looked like a very good stayer there, not sure what was behind her but they ran along and she put them to the sword. She will be one of the strongest late and should get a good run in transit.
(10) ARABIAN PRINCE is the horse I feel is forgotten. Only got to 2000m in the spring and always looked a stayer. Has had a very good prep for this and Melham rides. Another that has a poor gate but with any luck can add value to exotics.
I feel (1) SINGLE CHOICE and (3) KAYE JAY are similar types. They can stay but can also have a turn of foot. Both tactically versatile and both are winning hopes.
Had to like the win of (2) IMPULSIVE REACTION last start. Has this all come a bit soon in first prep? You’d be brave to write him off.
Plenty of other chances but I will probably back the two fillies or play trifecta around those mentioned.
Gibbo’s Derby tips:
(14) After Summer
(15) Silvasista
(1) Single Choice
(10) Arabian Price
(3) Kaye Jay
