Helmet can well and truly emerge from the shadow of his champion stablemate Sepoy in the G1 Caulfield Guineas in a fortnight.

Helmet (3c Exceed And Excel – Accessories by Singspiel) looked a star in his own right with a runaway victory in the G3 Guineas Prelude at Caulfield on Saturday.  He tracked front-runner Golden Archer before balancing up and breaking clear in the straight.  

Helmet had been a handful at various times earlier in his career but was on his best behaviour in the Prelude.  Bookmakers have him disputing Caulfield Guineas favouritism with Smart Missile at $3.50.

“He bounced perfectly then relaxed off the hot speed,” trainer Peter Snowden said.  “He quickened into stride and showed his real ability today.”

Helmet is a younger half-brother to G3 Colin Hayes Stakes winner Bullbars (Elusive Quality).  Sheikh Mohammed sent their British bred dam Accessories to Australia in June 2006.  She has a 2yo colt named Epaulette (Commands) and a yearling filly by Street Cry.

Helmet helped Sheikh Mohammed monopolise Australia’s 2YO division in 2010-11 with G1 wins in the ATC Sires’ Produce & Champagne Stakes.  Nevertheless, Sepoy was the star of the season with G1 victories in the Blue Diamond and Golden Slipper.

Sepoy will be back in the spotlight for the G1 Manikato Stakes at Moonee Valley next Friday night before Helmet takes centre stage again in the Caulfield Guineas on October 8.