Long John has completed a memorable day for trainer Peter Snowden and the Darley racing operation with his win in the $1 million Caulfield Guineas.

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Snowden and Darley also claimed the Group Spring Champion Stakes with Complacent at Randwick.

Long John started favourite to win the Guineas and after a deft piece of work in the saddle from jockey Kerrin McEvoy, he held off Divine Calling in the 1600m race.

Shamus Award took the minor placing ahead of Dissident.

McEvoy had Long John settled on the rails but he was able to angle into the running line at the 600m in what turned out to be a winning move.

Long John hit the front on turn and established a three-length lead and seemed set for an easy win until Diving Calling emerged from the ruck.

Divine Calling looked set to level up until Long John responded to hold his rival.

Snowden was the first to admit Long John has caught him by surprise.

“If you had asked me a month ago I would have said he was going to struggle in the Guineas but he’s one of those horses who has just kept improving,” Snowden said.

Long John remains in contention for the Cox Plate but Snowden said he was undecided on Moonee Valley start.

“It’s a big ask (for a three-year-old),” he said.

“I thought Helmet was the horse who could do it but it brought him undone.”