Newcastle's Broadmeadow racecourse witnessed sporting history on Saturday as the celebrated gelding Coal Crusher became the first horse to win the coveted $1 million Hunter race twice, cementing his legacy in Australian racing folklore.
A Champion's Return to Glory
The eight-year-old champion, who first claimed Newcastle's richest race in 2023, bravely held off challengers on the home stretch to secure his second Hunter title in front of thousands of excited spectators. Trainer and part-owner Joseph Pride revealed the remarkable gelding might even return to defend his title in 12 months, adding to his impressive record that also includes a third-place finish in 2024.
For Stevey Arena, daughter of the late INTS manager and legendary music entrepreneur Chris Murphy who originally bred Coal Crusher, the victory was particularly emotional. She watched overwhelmed as jockey Chad Schofield guided the horse to victory in the eighth and most anticipated race of the day, seeing her father's legacy stride into the history books.
Social Scene Steals the Show
Beyond the track, the atmosphere was electric as spectators, high-fashion socialites, and punters of all types created a buzzing hive of activity. The crowds spilled from exclusive lounges to bustling betting rings and onto the trackside turf, creating a vibrant social spectacle.
Career bookmaker Shan Murphy observed that the modern race meet has transformed significantly. "They're all buys, with lots of people," he noted, "But they are all social betters - once-a-year punters. A lot of them ask my bagman for his tip." This shift from committed racing followers to more social participants reflects the evolving nature of major racing events.
Personal Triumphs on a Grand Stage
While Coal Crusher's historic win dominated headlines, personal victories unfolded throughout the day. Merewether couple Kristen Lancey celebrated what she described as "the icing on the cake" when Brave One, the four-year-old gelding from Rosehill, delivered a tidy win in the final race.
Steered home by jockey Dylan Gibbons carrying 54 kilograms, Brave One paid just over $2.40 for a win, providing the perfect conclusion to what many described as a storybook day at the races.
The Hunter, sponsored by the Newcastle Herald, has quickly established itself as one of the region's premier sporting events since its inception in 2019. This year's edition proved why, combining elite racing action with glamorous social occasions that showcased Newcastle at its vibrant best.
