Trainer Ciaron Maher could not hide his admiration for Jukebox after the colt remained unbeaten in Saturday's Group III Vain Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield.
Jukebox was first-up since winning the Inglis 2YO at Caulfield in February and after racing in fourth place most of the way came under pressure rounding the home turn as Plutocracy led.
Craig Williams was forced to get busy on Jukebox ($3 fav) who ran to Plutocracy ($18) inside the final 50m to get up and score by a half neck with Poseidon's Pearl ($21) making up several lengths in the home straight for third, 1 1/4-lengths away.
Foot issues kept Jukebox out of the Blue Diamond Stakes however, Maher said the enforced break could prove a blessing in disguise.
"He had a nice long break and come back really well, stronger and better," Maher said. "He's had a lovely smooth campaign and is a credit to everyone in the stable.
"John Bunting our farrier has done a fantastic job with him and when you see a three-year-old colt resume like that it's very exciting."
The Danehill Stakes over 1200m at Flemington next month is next for the son of Snitzel and Maher said there is further improvement.
"His work on Tuesday really told me he was ready to go and put the writing on the wall," Maher said. "He was very strong and he'll improve a bit for this run.
"We'll see how he goes next time, there's a lot of options for him"
Williams said he had his worries into the home straight.
"At the top of the straight I was very concerned - he had a lovely run up till then but I went from going comfortably to wanting," Williams said.
"I was quite firm on him late and he really delivered. Today was the first time he's had to be a tough seasoned horse."
Welcome back, Jukebox! He's a smart colt. Jukebox nails Plutocracy right on the line to win the Group 3 Vain Stakes. pic.twitter.com/k2zk4IHM5V
— Racing.com (@Racing) August 19, 2017
