Derby hopes don’t disappoint

Waikato Stud graduates performed with distinction in today’s $2 million Gr.1 Australian Derby at Randwick.

The Matamata farm’s graduates Madison County and Surely Sacred finished second and third respectively.

For good measure, Savabeel’s son The Chosen One came from last to take the fourth spot.

A son of Pins, Madison County was gallant in his chase for another top-flight title.

The Gr.1 NZ 2000 Guineas and Levin Classic hero closed gamely along the fence, but couldn’t overhaul the front-runner Angel Of Truth.

Rock ‘n’ Pop’s son Surely Sacred also turned in a meritorious effort and found the line strongly.

Bred and sold by Waikato Stud, Madison County was a $36,000 purchase for the China Horse Club and Surely Sacred a $160,000 buy for Raffles Racing.

Recent News
31 July 2026

The Corner with Garry Chittick

Are there any benefits in growing older. Well, so long as your memory has not yet failed, then there is the knowledge accumulated from past experience. Like me, many as we age, develop a strong sense of cynicism; you know, we’ve seen it all before. 

Read More
26 July 2026

Jess Greenfield awarded 2026 Mary-Lynne Ryan Young Achiever Award

On Saturday night, Jess Greenfield was awarded the loveracing.nz Mary-Lynne Ryan Young Achiever Award at the Property Brokers National Breeding Awards at Karapiro. When asked by Steve Davis what the future looked like for Jess, Greenfield humbly replied: “Just keep working away at Waikato Stud and see where we end up.”

Read More