Long John turned the tables on his rivals winning an epic Caulfield Guineas after being seriously challenged in the straight.

The big money came forth late in betting, that saw his price tumbling from $4.80 to $3.80, to start a pronounced favourite.

He was in his comfort zone this time racing, never further back than fifth, with the leader, Éclair Big Bang, well within his sights all the way.

When the leader gave ground before the turn there was only one alternative for Kerrin McEvoy, he had to allow the gelding to go forward.

The favourite came around the turn full of running, he looked as if he was going to win by a sizeable margin until Divine Calling coming from near last, throwing out a desperate challenge in the straight.

Long John - Another Guineas winner for Darley

Long John was safely holding Divine Calling on the line; however the late surge by the Gai Waterhouse colt added a touch of spice to the finish.

The so called boom colt, Prince Harada, was badly deflated; he was never in the hunt at any stage of the race.

There is no point in laying the blame on a wide barrier; they can win from anywhere if they have the required talent.

It was just another case of winter form rarely holding up in the spring, a bit like putting the boys among the men, never a wise decision.

Peter Snowden and Kerrin McEvoy