Johnson to ride Kiwi Oaks hope

Savvy Coup

Chris Johnson has been confirmed as Savvy Coup’s rider in the Gr.1 Australian Oaks (2400m).

Co-trainer Michael Pitman said Hugh Bowman had been approached for the mount, but he has opted to partner the Chris Waller-trained Unforgotten in Saturday week’s classic at Randwick.

Johnson has an outstanding record with Savvy Coup, who will be on a flight to Sydney on Wednesday, having ridden her in four of her five wins including a victory in the Gr.1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m).

Recent News
17 September 2025

The Corner with Garry Chittick

Well, it was finally our turn. Mary and I shared in the joy of winning a race; we were there, of course. We could have settled in, in front of the TV – not driven the 50 minutes each way, but the emotions are entirely different.

Read More
14 September 2025

Smart Love too smart this start

Smart Love (Savabeel ex Relentless Desire) made a winning return at Te Rapa on 14 September, storming home by 3.3 lengths. Racing in Garry Chittick’s colours, the four-year-old mare impressed for Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott after two solid trials.

Read More