Coal Crusher has etched its name in racing history by becoming the first horse to win The Hunter twice, securing the prestigious race on October 21, 2023, at Newcastle. The eight-year-old gelding triumphed in the $1 million feature event, two years after his initial victory in the same race.
Trainer Joseph Pride, along with his wife Kylie and son Brave, were present at Broadmeadow to celebrate this remarkable achievement. The Pride family is a significant part of Coal Crusher’s ownership group, which has seen considerable success over the years. “It’s a small group, but we’ve been pretty lucky,” Pride remarked to the Newcastle Herald in the mounting yard following the race.
Coal Crusher’s victory marks a significant milestone, having also finished third in the 2024 edition of The Hunter. Pride suggested that the horse could return for another attempt next year. With a record of ten wins and 13 placings from 46 career starts, this win is particularly notable. “It’s kind of the only race he can win; it just fits in nicely for him into the calendar,” Pride explained. “You only get one chance at it every year, so we’ll try and get him back here next year.”
In a display of strong competition, Pride’s stable also secured a quinella with Accredited finishing second. Local trainer Kris Lees rounded out the placings with Brudenell, marking a successful day for Newcastle trainers.
Excitement Builds for Future Stars
The day also featured the impressive performance of Green Spaces, a three-year-old colt trained by Bjorn Baker, who clinched the Group Spring Stakes (1600m) at Newcastle. Green Spaces pulled ahead to defeat Brett Cavanough‘s Bird Whistle by three lengths, showcasing a remarkable progression following previous races. Baker’s camp noted the horse’s growing confidence, stating, “He struts around home like he owns the joint.”
Looking ahead, Green Spaces may have an exciting future in the autumn season, as the team believes there are greater challenges awaiting him.
The intersection of tennis and horse racing was evident at Newcastle, with Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios among the part-owners celebrating a victory for Seeiaye in the Max Lees Classic (900 metres) earlier in the day. Although Kyrgios wasn’t present trackside, trainer Peter Snowden confirmed his involvement in the ownership group. “That’s him [Kyrgios]… he was there when they bought him,” Snowden told the Newcastle Herald.
Snowden, a member of the Newcastle Hunter Racing Hall of Fame, expressed his admiration for the late Pat Farrell, a significant figure in the racing community. “He was an icon,” Snowden said. “When I started riding as an apprentice at 16, I was just thrilled to get a ride for him.”
Snowden’s victory with Seeiaye, who started from barrier one and was ridden by Josh Parr, was celebrated by many first-time owners present. “A lot of them are first-time owners and they are enjoying the moment, so they should be,” he said.
The day continued to unfold with further wins, including Maid Of Moolah in the fourth race, showcasing the depth of talent present at the event. Clarry Connors secured a win with Djapana in the second race, while Chris Waller’s Sun God captured a benchmark 88 handicap named the Alf-Kneebone Trans-Tasman Trophy.
The Hunter, boasting a total prize purse of $1 million and sponsored by the Newcastle Herald, promises to remain a highlight of the racing calendar, drawing attention from both local and international audiences. The community’s enthusiasm and support for the event continue to shine, making it a celebration of both sport and camaraderie.
