In a breathtaking finish that stunned the Eagle Farm crowd, Joliestar produced a late burst of speed to win the Kingsford Smith Cup in extraordinary fashion. Despite the clear challenge of running down front-runners on the day, the talented mare refused to be denied, finding a second gear under the experienced hands of James McDonald to claim her third career Group 1 victory.
The four-year-old, already proven at the highest level with wins in the Thousand Guineas and Newmarket Handicap, defied the odds once again. As the field entered the home stretch, she looked well out of contention, caught in a tough position that left even her connections doubting the outcome. Yet in the final few metres, she surged past Zarastro, a fellow Inglis Digital graduate, to secure the win in a thrilling finish that capped a remarkable performance.
This victory holds added significance for Chris Waller, who now notches up his 19th Group 1 win of the Australian season—a record-setting achievement that cements his standing as one of the premier trainers in the country. Waller praised the mare’s tenacity, noting her unwavering will to compete and the professionalism she brings to the stable, where she is affectionately nicknamed “the queen of Queensland” by staff.
The story behind Joliestar’s ownership adds another layer of distinction. Purchased for $950,000 at the Easter Yearling Sale by Sir Brendan Lindsay of Cambridge Stud, the mare was sourced from Segenhoe Stud, representing breeders Chris and Jane Barham. Lindsay, recently honoured with a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, was present trackside to witness the moment. Visibly moved by the result, he expressed disbelief and joy, recalling that he wasn’t sure she had won until the photo confirmed it.
With six wins from 15 starts and over $4.5 million in earnings, Joliestar continues to build an elite resume. This race will be her only outing this preparation, with plans now pointing towards a spring return. Her future targets include the prestigious $20 million The Everest at Randwick in October, setting the stage for another potentially historic campaign.
Earlier in the day, the lightly raced Transatlantic added to the momentum for Easter Yearling Sale graduates, claiming the Listed Spear Chief Handicap. Trained by Tony Gollan, the four-year-old by Snitzel has now won six of his 16 starts. Gollan, who acquired him for $360,000 in partnership with John Foote and Harbour Equine, is hopeful that the win earns his charge enough weight to make the field for the upcoming G1 Stradbroke Handicap.
Joining him in that race could be Spicy Martini, a promising three-year-old filly trained by Toby Edmonds and Stephen McLean. She recently captured her first Group victory in the rescheduled G3 Fred Best Classic at Doomben, continuing a fairytale rise for a horse that cost just $8000 as a yearling. Her journey from an Inglis Digital Online Sale to Group success highlights the incredible value these sales can offer.
With final acceptances for the Stradbroke due Tuesday, anticipation is building for what promises to be another high-calibre contest. As for Joliestar, her dramatic win will be remembered as one of the highlights of the season and a testament to her class, determination, and the vision of her connections.
