Co-trainer Michael Hawkes predicts a bright future for Spione after his stylish victory at Randwick
Trainer Michael Hawkes predicted a bright future for promising Spione after a fast-finishing win at Royal Randwick on Saturday.
Spione, ridden by Tyler Schiller, went very wide on the turn and made his run near the outside rail before reeling in his rivals to win the Magnolia Lane Financial Services Handicap (1400m).
'We have a lot of time for this horse,' Hawkes said.
'He was very unlucky here last start and he drew an awkward barrier today.
'I told Tyler that unfortunately he would have to go back on him but we think the horse is good enough.
'We just had to hope he got some clear air then let him rip and he's done that. It was a very good win.'
Spione, well backed into $3.90 favouritism, ran down Thunderlips ($4) to win by a widening one-and-a-quarter lengths with Boltsaver ($8) a half length away third.
Schiller said it wasn't his intention to get as wide as he did on Spione in the straight.
'I didn't really want to get to the outside but when I was half-way there at the 400m I thought I might as well go the whole way,' Schiller said.
@G1TySchil | @HawkesRacing pic.twitter.com/Ixrw9keTiY
â€' SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) May 24, 2025
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'Spione finished very strongly and put them away nicely in the finish. He's always been a consistent type and I know Michael really likes him.'
Hawkes, who trains in partnership with his brother Wayne and their father, Hall of Famer John, said four-year-old Spione's best is still to come after the sprinter scored his third win at just his fifth start.
'We bred Spione and my Mum (Jenny) and wife (Clare) own him,' Hawkes said.
'The horse is by Showtime who we used to train and I have no doubt in time he will make a very nice horse.'
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