UPDATE: In an electrifying turn of events, Coal Crusher has made history by winning the $1 million The Hunter race for the second time on October 14, 2023, at Newcastle. This remarkable feat solidifies his status as a racing legend, becoming the first horse ever to achieve this milestone.
Jockey Chad Schofield rode the eight-year-old gelding to victory, leading him through the race before a thrilling finish against stablemate Accredited, winning by a margin of three-quarters of a length. The victory comes after a two-year gap since his last win in this prestigious race, reigniting the excitement for his connections, including trainer Joe Pride and his son, Brave Pride, who serves as his strapper and part-owner.
“He’s our great horse,” said Joe Pride, expressing pride in Coal Crusher’s performance. “Over the last two years, he has earned over $1 million, making him a fantastic money spinner, and the bond between my son and this horse is something truly special.”
The win adds to a “groundbreaking” spring for Pride, who also celebrated a victory with Ceolwulf in the Champions Mile just last week at Flemington. Coal Crusher’s earnings now stand at an impressive $2.8 million, and Pride has hinted at a potential return for next year’s Hunter Day.
In a day filled with surprises, Kris Lees‘s horse Brudenell finished third, while the favorite, Yorkshire, suffered a disappointing last-place finish due to cardiac arrhythmia. Meanwhile, Chris Waller‘s Asterix captured the next race, marking a significant win after a drought since February 2024.
The racing community is buzzing with anticipation as the next big event looms: the $3 million Magic Millions Classic is on the horizon. Trainer Peter Snowden is eyeing this race with his colt Seeiaye, who recently won the Max Lees Classic for two-year-olds, dodging a potential gelding operation.
Champion trainer Clarry Conners also made headlines by securing a win with Djapana in the Midway Handicap, marking his first victory in Newcastle since his induction into the regional racing hall of fame.
The excitement is palpable as racing enthusiasts reflect on Coal Crusher’s illustrious career and the emotional connections within the sport. With potential future races lined up, fans are eager to see how this remarkable horse will continue to perform in the coming months.
As the dust settles on this thrilling race day, all eyes are now on the next challenges ahead for Coal Crusher and his team. Will he return to defend his title in The Hunter next year? Only time will tell, but for now, this victory is one for the history books.
