Racing: Jokers Wild proving to be ace in Moroney's pack

It just doesn't seem possible Jokers Wild can be beaten in the 2000 Guineas at Riccarton.

That might be a big statement still five days out from the white-eyed chestnut being crowned Mercedes Champion 2YO of last season on Friday night.

But Jokers Wild's winning performance at Hastings on Saturday was truly spectacular.

"The scary thing is he might be improved," said winning rider Michael Coleman, comparing the colt to his dual group one-winning old season.

Not only did Jokers Wild concede runner-up Mon Reve 5kg - a huge concession at this time of the season - he was made to seriously carry his 59kg by rider Bruce Herd pressuring him on the outside from the end of the back straight on Shortblackmini.

It made little difference - Jokers Wild cruised to the finish.

How can they beat him when they get back to level weights in the Hawkes Bay Guineas?

Co-trainer Mike Moroney made the trip from his Melbourne base and was astounded at the physical development in Jokers Wild, whose advantage as a juvenile was muscle mass, but who has now developed scope in his frame. He is a truly imposing specimen.

The on-going focus will be to embellish the colt's already significant value as a stallion prospect.

With that in mind the 2000 Guineas at Riccarton is a must.

"Once he's tied up a group one 3-year-old victory in New Zealand we can look to take on the Aussies in a race like the Cadbury Guineas," said Moroney.

He is by a Storm Cat son in Black Minnaloushe from a Rory's Jester mare Rory.

"A lot of people say the Rory's Jesters don't train on at three, but this bloke looks more like a Storm Cat horse," said Moroney.

"Paul (brother) and I were at Coolmore Stud recently and Jokers Wild wouldn't look out of place alongside a couple of Storm Cat sons there."

Moroney allowed himself an optimistic thought as he walked away.

"When that (leg trouble) happened to Xcellent you wonder when the next (topliner) one is going to come along.

"He probably has."

And to think Jokers Wild could have been days away from being gelded when his summer form slumped last season to the point of him indicating he needed spelling.

Gelding is almost certain to be the future for Don Garcia, who raced well below his best again, even though third to Jokers Wild.

"That's what I'm recommending to the owners," said trainer Mark Walker.

Walker is certain Don Garcia is pinching his testicles at top speed, leaving him unable to extend his stride.