Pike puts pair to test

NEW Zealand trainer Tony Pike is using Caulfield today as a starting point to kick off the preparations for his pair of star horses – Group 1 winners Sacred Elixir and Rangipo.

Sacred Elixir, who is favourite for the Victoria Derby, resumes in the Caulfield Guineas Prelude where he is amongst the real fancies.

“He’s really well and he’s had two good jump-outs. (But) 1400m at Caulfield first-up he might find them a bit fast,” Pike said.

“Damian Lane will ride him where he’s happy and as long as he hits the line and finishes in the top five he’ll be ready for the Caulfield Guineas.”

Pike said Sacred Elixir was a big horse who was starting to fill out into his frame.