Tom Kitten achieved a remarkable feat on March 9, 2024, becoming the first horse to win the All Star Mile twice, securing the prestigious $2 million Group 1 race at Flemington. The five-year-old galloper, trained by Anthony and Sam Freedman, demonstrated his prowess once again, following up on last year’s victory with a powerful performance.
In the race, jockey Craig Williams positioned Tom Kitten just behind the leaders, who included the favourite, Pride Of Jenni, and the long-shot Evaporate. As the race progressed, Pride Of Jenni attempted to create a breakaway, but Tom Kitten surged forward, taking the lead with just 200 meters to go. Despite a determined challenge from Evaporate, Tom Kitten prevailed, finishing just a neck ahead.
Williams praised the work of the Freedman team, especially their efforts in improving Tom Kitten’s barrier manners, which had previously caused issues. “They’ve obviously spent a lot of time with his barrier manners,” he noted. “It’s hard against Jenni, isn’t it? And this horse beat me last year in this race on (Mr) Brightside.” Williams reflected on the horse’s training regimen, highlighting a particularly fast gallop prior to the race that indicated Tom Kitten was in excellent form.
Looking ahead, Sam Freedman suggested that the next target for Tom Kitten could be the Doncaster Mile, rather than the Australian Cup, as they continue to map out the horse’s racing calendar.
Caballus Claims Victory in Newmarket Handicap
In addition to the All Star Mile, the day’s events included the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap, where Caballus led from the start to secure a narrow victory. Jockey Craig Newitt guided the $19 shot to win by a head over Gallant Son, with the race featuring limited opportunities for horses to come from behind.
Newitt expressed his emotions after clinching a record fourth Newmarket win, a milestone he hadn’t achieved since 2014. “It’s quite emotional, actually,” he remarked. “10 years since my last one, so it’s been a while, and I’ve been sitting on equal leader of the most Newmarket wins.”
He noted the significance of the Newmarket Handicap in Australian racing, calling it “the most historic race in Australia at the moment – apart from the Melbourne Cup – especially for sprinting.” Newitt skillfully managed Caballus’s pace throughout the race, ensuring he maintained a comfortable lead against the competition.
This year’s Super Saturday showcased not only the talent of Tom Kitten and Caballus but also the enduring appeal of Australian horse racing, drawing attention from fans and industry insiders alike. As the racing season unfolds, both horses will be closely watched for their next moves, with excitement building around their future performances.
