Unforgettable Lightning Champions You Might Have Forgotten
2023 - The Lasting Impression of Queen Coolangatta
It’s been a while since we’ve had the chance to reflect on the remarkable career of Queen Coolangatta, especially after her retirement in 2023. Her journey is a fascinating one, filled with moments that made her shine brightly in the racing world. While she may be considered somewhat obscure now, revisiting her achievements is always an enjoyable experience.
This impressive filly, owned by Ozzie Kheir and sired by Written Tycoon, burst onto the racing scene with a bang during the 2021/2022 season. She made an immediate impact by clinching victory in the G2 Gimcrack Stakes, followed by wins in the G3 McLachlan Stakes and the prestigious Magic Millions 2YO Classic—all within her first three races.
After showcasing her talent as a two-year-old, she capped off her season with a commendable third place in the Golden Slipper. The following year, she added the Moir Stakes to her resume but faced challenges in the Coolmore race.
Her final Australian appearance was in the 2023 Lightning Stakes, where she surprised many by overcoming a drift in odds from $6 to $9, thanks to a perfectly timed ride by Jamie Melham. She successfully held off strong competition from I Wish I Win and Bella Nipotina to secure victory.
Following her time in Australia, Queen Coolangatta ventured to Royal Ascot for the King Stand Stakes, where she unfortunately did not place. Shortly thereafter, she was sold to Coolmore, who announced plans for her to breed with Home Affairs. However, she ultimately mated with Justify, although her foal was tragically lost shortly after birth. Recent records show that she welcomed a Snitzel colt last October, continuing her legacy in the breeding world.
2018 - Redkirk Warrior’s Daring Solo Sprint
Redkirk Warrior was known for being a fierce competitor, particularly during his prime under the guidance of trainers David and Ben Hayes and Tom Dabernig. Although his form declined as he approached retirement, he left a lasting legacy that includes back-to-back wins at the Newmarket Handicap in 2017 and 2018. However, it was his first Lightning Stakes victory prior to the latter win that truly showcased his extraordinary ability.
In an exhilarating performance, Redkirk Warrior, donning blinkers for the first time, found himself at the back of the pack with rider Regan Bayliss. As the race progressed, he navigated some tense moments near the front runners at the 300m mark but began to emerge as a serious contender against the favored Redzel, who was priced at $1.70.
As the finish line approached, Redkirk launched into action with a stunning final 400m time of 21.34 seconds, clinching an incredible win as a $10 outsider. This remarkable triumph highlighted his exceptional capabilities, yet what intrigues me most is his earlier career before arriving in Australia.
Before his success down under, he had won twice over 2000m in the UK but struggled as a Derby contender in Hong Kong, never competing below seven furlongs until he came to Australia. The Lightning Stakes marked his debut and sole race at the 1000m distance.
2014 - Snitzerland Finally Claims Group 1 Glory
Snitzerland was a highly talented filly who, despite her impressive skills, seemed destined to face disappointment as she approached her breeding career. Up until the 2014 Lightning Stakes, this daughter of Snitzel was in danger of heading to the breeding barn without a Group 1 victory, having finished as runner-up in both the 2012 Golden Slipper and the 2013 Galaxy Stakes.
However, her fortunes changed dramatically in the Lightning Stakes of the following year. Snitzerland, starting at $5, maintained a strategic position on the pace, surged ahead, and held off a fierce challenge from the formidable Shamexpress, who was priced at $7.50, even amidst driving rain conditions.
Following this victory, she competed three more times, achieving a notable second place in the G2 Challenge Stakes before retiring with an impressive tally of eight wins—six of which were at the Group level—and a total of $1.97 million in prize money.
2004 - From a Modest Investment to Lightning Stardom
In a tale of remarkable achievement, Queensland trainer Shaun Dwyer acquired Regimental Gal for a mere $16,500 at the 2002 Magic Millions sale. Ultimately, she retired with a staggering $1.53 million in earnings.
Her story was already remarkable, especially following her win in the then-record-setting $540,000 Magic Millions 2YO Classic. Returning to Flemington after a five-month break, Regimental Gal boasted an impressive record of five wins from seven starts.
In her first attempt at both Group 1 and open-age racing, she managed to squeeze through along the outside rail and surged home, narrowly clinching her first of two Group 1 victories under the guidance of Steven King. Her second Group 1 win came just two races later in the Australia Stakes at The Valley, marking her final victory before her retirement in 2005.
