Best Bets For the Australian Derby

Australian Derby
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The 2025 Australian Derby, a premier Group 1 event for three-year-olds, is scheduled for Saturday, April 5, at Randwick Racecourse. This 2400-meter classic, with a rich history dating back to 1861, offers a prize pool of $2 million.

Betting Tips:

Best Bet: ​Willydoit

Willydoit, a three-year-old gelding trained by Shaun and Emma Clotworthy, stands as a leading contender for the 2025 Australian Derby at Randwick Racecourse. Sired by Tarzino, the 2015 Victoria Derby winner, and out of the More Than Ready mare Willamette, Willydoit boasts a strong staying pedigree. His racing record includes four wins from six starts, highlighted by a commanding victory in the Group 1 New Zealand Derby at Ellerslie, where he defeated Thedoctoroflove by over two lengths. Despite a tenth-place finish in the Avondale Guineas prior to his Derby triumph, Willydoit rebounded impressively, showcasing resilience and adaptability. Currently favored in betting markets with odds around $3.50, his proven stamina over the 2400m distance and demonstrated ability to recover from setbacks position him as a formidable candidate for Australian Derby success.

Next Best: ​Aeliana

Historically, fillies have faced challenges in the Australian Derby, with Shamrocker in 2011 being the most recent filly to secure victory. Aeliana’s pedigree, being by Castelvecchio out of the Star Witness mare Temolie, suggests she possesses the stamina required for the 2400-meter distance.

Trainer Chris Waller has indicated that Aeliana will be nominated for both the Australian Derby and the Australian Oaks, with a decision to be made based on her condition and the stable’s assessment of her suitability for each race. As of March 31, 2025, Aeliana is among the leading contenders for the Derby, with betting markets reflecting her strong prospects.

Best Value: Shanwah

Shanwah, a three-year-old gelding trained by Ciaron Maher, has emerged as a formidable contender for the 2025 Australian Derby at Randwick Racecourse. Sired by Too Darn Hot out of Lady Sayyida, Shanwah boasts a strong pedigree indicative of staying prowess. His recent form is impressive, securing four consecutive victories, including notable wins in the Group 2 Autumn Classic over 1800 meters at Caulfield and the Group 2 Alister Clark Stakes over 2040 meters at Moonee Valley. These performances underscore his ability to handle increasing distances and suggest readiness for the Derby’s 2400-meter challenge. Currently, betting markets reflect his strong prospects, with odds around $6.00, positioning him among the top contenders alongside favorites like Willydoit and Aeliana. Given his consistent improvement and proven stamina, Shanwah presents a compelling case for success in the 2025 Australian Derby

2025 Australian Derby Key Contenders​

As the 2025 Australian Derby approaches, several contenders have emerged as leading candidates for victory in this prestigious Group 1 event at Randwick Racecourse.

Willydoit: This New Zealand-based stayer has demonstrated impressive form, securing four wins from six starts, including a notable victory in the Group 1 New Zealand Derby. Sired by Tarzino, a two-time Group 1 winner over 2500m, Willydoit is currently the favorite with odds of $3.60.

Aeliana: Trained by Chris Waller, Aeliana has shown consistent improvement this season. She recently finished a close second in the Rosehill Guineas over 2000m, indicating her readiness for the step up to 2400m. Historically, fillies have had limited success in the Australian Derby, with Shamrocker being the last to win in 2011.

Shanwah: This emerging stayer has garnered attention with a series of impressive performances, including a victory in the Alister Clark Stakes at The Valley. His current odds stand at $6.00.

King Of Thunder: Another notable contender, King Of Thunder, has shown promise in lead-up races and is currently listed with odds of $8.00.

Goldrush Guru: With consistent performances in recent starts, Goldrush Guru stands as a competitive entry, holding odds of $9.00.

Race Insights:

Historically, the Rosehill Guineas and the Tulloch Stakes have been pivotal lead-up races for the Australian Derby. Between 1994 and 2024, the Rosehill Guineas produced 15 Derby winners, though not all achieved victory in both races. Notably, from 2017 to 2024, several horses, including Quick Thinker and Jon Snow, completed the Tulloch Stakes-Australian Derby double, indicating that the one-week backup can be advantageous.

Betting Insights:

The Australian Derby often features horses progressing from the Rosehill Guineas, with several completing the double in recent years. Favorites have had a reasonable strike rate, with Riff Rocket winning in 2024 at odds of $2.20.

Conclusion:

While Willydoit leads the betting markets, the Australian Derby is known for its competitive fields and potential for upsets. Aeliana’s recent form and Shanwah’s winning streak make them formidable challengers. As always, factors such as track conditions, barrier draws, and race-day temperament will play crucial roles in determining the outcome. Punters are advised to monitor these elements closely as the race day approaches.

Looking for the best Bookmakers to bet on the Australian Derby?

Looking for the best online betting sites in Australia for Australian Derby? Here at Racingbase.com.au we provide the most up-to-date information on which bookmakers are the best in Australia. Looking for the best NRL and AFL content? check out our sister site Bettingpro.com.au for the latest tips and previews for the 2025 season

18+ T&C's Apply. What is Gambling Really Costing You?  What are you prepared to lose today? Set a Deposit Limit For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au
18+ T&C's Apply. What is Gambling Really Costing You?  What are you prepared to lose today? Set a Deposit Limit For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au
18+ T&C's Apply. What is Gambling Really Costing You?  What are you prepared to lose today? Set a Deposit Limit For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au
18+ T&C's Apply. What is Gambling Really Costing You?  What are you prepared to lose today? Set a Deposit Limit For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au

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