Every now and again you get to experience a day in racing which just takes your breath away and makes your spirits soar. We had one of those days on Saturday, 14th December 2019.

It started at Kembla Grange where Arthur in Charge (Charge Forward/Morton), sporting the Mittiga Family colours and ridden by our latest apprentice jockey Tom Sherry, won by a nostril the Gary Thatcher Memorial Class 1 Handicap over 1400m.

Next up, Quackerjack (Not A Single Doubt/Quack It) lined up in the Group 2 Quincy Seltzer Villiers Stakes over 1600m at Randwick. Once again wearing the Mittiga Family colours and partnered by jockey Rachel King. Jumping from barrier 10 with his distinctive long white blaze prominent as he travelled wide, but relaxed in his stride. He secured the lead at the 1000m mark, keeping up a good strong tempo, holding the others at bay. At the 50m mark when Invincible Gem came for him, he kept toughing it out, fighting for every inch which in the end was all that was needed. His owners did have to endure a photo finish before he was finally declared the winner. It was such a satisfying win; this gutsy horse just doesn’t know when to lie down.

Quackerjack was the very first horse purchased at the Magic Millions Yearling Sale in 2017 from breeders Ged and Jan Nolan of Rosari Farm. Mark liked him straight away, making several visits back to take another look at him. Together with the Mittiga group, some friends and supporters of the then-new stable, we managed to buy him for $240k. We are so glad we did; he has been our most consistent horse always putting in 110%, and today he gave us one of our biggest thrills.

With the spoils comes the opportunity to compete in the 2020 Doncaster Mile, exempt from ballet. So, another challenge lies ahead but one I’m sure Quackerjack will be up for.

Congratulations to all Owners and connections for a fabulous day in racing.