BIG SPRING AHEAD FOR LARIO

Talented three-year-old Lario started his Spring campaign in dominant fashion at Geelong on Sunday over 1500m.

The son of Epaulette was too classy for the small field with jockey Damian Lane stalking the speed before taking over and pulling away inside the final furlong.

"The wind has really picked up down the back and I was trying to get cover off the leader the whole way but it wasn't helping much as it was side on ," Lane said post-race.

"So that meant that the win was probably a little unflattering because turning for home the horses were spent, so I think he did a good job to win.  I reckon he will improve from the run and there could be a good race for him down the track." 

Trainer Danny O'Brien is confident trips up in distance will suit the emerging galloper.

"His PlusVital Speed Gene test says he will appreciate 2000m and beyond, so it was great to come here today and get the result first-up," Racing Manager Jack Howard said.

"In the past Danny has used this meeting to kick-off his three-year-olds that he hopes can go deep into the Spring and we hope that today no is exception with this guy."

Victoria Derby placegetter Young Werther won over 1500m at this meeting in his three-year-old year and O'Brien also won at Geelong with Buffett before he finished runner up in the AAMI Vase and fourth in the Derby back in 2008.   

Pic by Racing Photos