AUSTRALIAN GUINEAS

HISTORY

* First run in 1986 for three-year-olds as Group Three event. Won by True Version

* From 1987 race has held Group One status

* Notable winners: Zabeel (1990), Triscay (1991), Mahogany (1994), Flying Spur (1996), Pins (2000), Reset (2004), Apache Cat (2006), Miss Finland (2007), Mosheen (2012) and Shamus Award (2014).

* Lee Freedman (Mahogany 1994, Flying Spur 1996, Mr Murphy 2001) and Colin Hayes (Military Plume 1987, King's High 1989, Zabeel 1990) most successful trainers

* Shortest-priced favourite to win was Dignity Dancer at 8-13 in 1999

TALKING POINTS

* Champion Hong Kong jockey Douglas Whyte travels to Melbourne to ride Alpine Eagle who backs up from brilliant win in the Group Three Autumn Classic. Whyte is one of three Hong Kong-based jockeys with Guineas rides. Nash Rawiller returns to partner favourite Kermadec while Brett Prebble has picked up mount on Wandjina.

PATTERN

* The capacity field should ensure a solid tempo. Fontein Ruby and Wandjina look the ones to go forward with Tasmanian galloper Admiral not too far away. The favourite Kermadec and Rommel should also be handy.

FANCIED RUNNERS

* Kermadec is favourite after Chris Waller scratched him from the Randwick Guineas to run at Flemington. Strong last-start second to Group One winner Hallowed Crown and proven over a mile at Flemington. Alpine Eagle produced stunning finish to win at Caulfield last start and is untapped. Wandjina strong to win first-up and Minnesinger is a rising talent.