Three-year-old Star Turn has returned to racing in the best way possible at Rosehill Gardens this afternoon; producing an impressive all-round effort to win the Group 3 San Domenico Stakes (1100m).

Star Turn was far too good in the Group 3 San Domenico Stakes at Rosehill Gardens this afternoon. Photo: Steve Hart

Star Turn received some interest in 2016 San Domenico Stakes betting markets in the hours leading up to jump as punters turned their attention away from Golden Slipper champion Capitalist, and the colt did his chances no harm when jumping well and taking an ideal position in transit on the heels of leader Tango Rain.

Offered a clear racing line up arriving at the final straight, the son of Star Witness immediately responded when asked for an extra effort by jockey Tommy Berry; pulling clear to find the line comfortably ahead of Tango Rain and Kentucky Miss.

Capitalist was unable to produce much of a kick in the final stages of the San Domenico Stakes and finished fourth.

Co-trainer Michael Hawkes was on hand for Star Turn’s first-up win in the San Domenico Stakes and was understandably pleased with the effort.

“When he got in front of Capitalist he relaxed really well,” Hawkes said.

“The best thing about him this time that we’ve noticed is that he’s a lot more relaxed.

“He’s better and stronger, and hopefully he’s got a lot more to go this prep. It’s only first-up, but he’s certainly a colt in the making, that’s for sure.

“We’ve always known he has the ability, it’s just about putting it all together and now, I think everyone’s seen today, he’s put it together.”

Hawkes revealed that plans have not been made for the colt’s spring target so far, but he believes he will continue to be hard to beat in sprinting races.

“We talked about it before the race and today was to see where he was at,” Hawkes said.

“He relaxed beautifully so he’s definitely got the sprinting side. Whether he gets further, it’s yet to be decided.”

Berry delivered a gem of a ride on Star Turn to win the San Domenico Stakes, but was quick to lay all the praise on the quality of the horse and Team Hawkes’ preparation.

“I always thought we’d end up there, but the team at home all know he’s a better horse when he’s ridden off the speed because he comes off the backs and sprints really well,”

“Today he just got there very easy and was very arrogant. He just cantered up to them, put them away quick and switched himself off in the last 100m.

“He couldn’t be going any better this horse, he’s a monster, he’s got plenty of improvement and full credit to the Hawkes team.”

Punters who backed Star Turn to win the San Domenico Stakes at Ladbrokes.com.au have been paid out on generous $3.20 odds!

2016 San Domenico Stakes Results