Rivals chase WS debutant in vain

4 August 2015

Bullrush posted a commanding debut victory in the WS colours at Goulburn this afternoon. Team Hawkes made a rare visit to a country track to launch the four-year-old’s career and it proved a perfect move.

The Garry Chittick-bred and raced son of O’Reilly, who had been unbeaten in two lead-up trials, had no trouble justifying his red-hot favouritism under rider Jay Ford. He sat with the leader to the turn and then left his rivals in his wake when asked for an effort.

“He is an exciting horse in the making,” said co-trainer Michael Hawkes after the win.

“Today’s win is not a surprise. We’ve had a good opinion of him since coming over from New Zealand. He’s still green and learning, but he has a lot of upside and ability. The big thing about today was giving him a trip away.

“He’ll go out for a spell now. The key to him will be patience.”

Bullrush is a half-brother to the Gr.2 Cal Isuzu Stakes winner Sports Illustrated (Fast N Famous). Their dam Pin Up a half-sister to the WS-bred international Group One winner and sire Starcraft.

Olivia Blane honoured at Industry Excellence Awards

We’re proud to share that our very own Olivia Blane was named the winner of the Stud, Stable & Kennel Excellence category at the Industry Excellence Awards, powered by Entain. As Waikato Stud’s Yearling Manager, Olivia leads our yearling preparation team and oversees the preparation of nearly 100 yearlings for public auction each season.

29 June 2025

Knocks it out of the Park with a metro double across the Ocean

Proven sire Ocean Park struck again with a metro double in Australia on Saturday, 28 June, led by Misterkipchoge and Arcadia Park. A multiple Group 1 winner himself, Ocean Park continues to deliver high-class progeny including Tofane, Kolding, Kovalica and VRC Oaks placegetter Powers Of Opal.