The Quokka Victory May Run in TJ Smith Stakes

Trainer Bjorn Baker is keeping his options open for Overpass as the sprinter prepares for a third straight win in The Quokka (1200m) at Ascot on April 26. The horse has been a class above its peers in Western Australia Racing the last two seasons, winning back-to-back editions of the slot race worth 5 million and winning successive runs of the Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes.

As opposed to the previous campaigns in the sphere of the arena, Overpass now has the option of starting in the Group 1 TJ Smith Stakes that takes place at Royal Randwick over 1200 m. This race is scheduled for April 6, and he might take a trip to Perth for the winter carnival thereafter. A change in scheduling this year has allowed for more flexibility in planning.

“There are three weeks this year between the TJ Smith Stakes and The Quokka, so there is the option to go to the TJ first-up before we head west,” Baker said.

Overpass has previously gone into The Quokka fresh, but a competitive run in Sydney could serve as an ideal lead-up before attempting to claim another major win in Perth.

Overpass’ Success in The Quokka

Overpass has built a strong record in Western Australia Racing, winning the first two editions of The Quokka against high-level opposition. In 2023, he edged out local favorite Amelia’s Jewel and future Everest winner Bella Nipotina in a close finish that immediately established the race’s significance.

A year later, he repeated the result, again holding off Amelia’s Jewel, while Bella Nipotina finished fourth. Local sprinter Oscar’s Fortune ran third, further proving the race’s competitiveness.

With nearly 10 million in prizemoney, Overpass has been a standout in slot races, and a third straight victory in The Quokka would solidify his place in history.

Past champions include horses such as the above-mentioned Chautauqua, Nature Strip, and Redzel, who could run at the top level in elite sprinting events. The TJ Smith Stakes is intended for the best sprint distances in Western Australia Racing.

If Overpass lines up at Randwick, he could face high-profile runners such as Think About It, I Wish I Win, and Imperatriz. The race would provide a strong test before making the trip west for another high-stakes challenge.

Baker has managed Overpass carefully, selecting races that suit his strengths. His ability to perform in high-pressure conditions has made him a consistent contender at the top level.

“He’s come back in great shape, and we know he performs well in Perth. It’s just about placing him where he’s most effective,” Baker said.

Winning The Quokka for a third consecutive year would be a major achievement, making Overpass the first horse to secure three straight victories in the race. The feat would highlight his consistency and ability to perform at the highest level.

With the decision on his next race still pending, all attention will be on Baker’s final call. Whether Overpass starts his campaign in Sydney or heads straight to Perth, he remains the top contender for The Quokka on April 26.