The Galaxy is a Group 1 race held every April at Randwick racecourse. It is raced over a distance of 1100 meters and is run under handicap conditions. The race is open to horses of any age and sex and carries a prize purse of $300,000.
It was first run in 1972 as a Group 3 race, it was then upgraded to Group 2 status in 1980 and upgraded again in 1984 to become a Group 1 race, which it has remained as ever since. Some good horses have won this race over the years, most notably Spark Of Life, Gold Ace, Schillaci, Snippets, Grey Receiver, Luskin Star and Bletchingly.
The race is held the same as two other Group 1 races in the Doncaster Handicap and Australian Oaks. It’s one of the biggest days on the Randwick acing calendar and the 1100 metres in distance of the race ensures it’s a hectic and exciting affair every year.
As this race usually attracts quality sprinters, it can be tough to pick winners. We suggest looking at important lead up races such as Oakleigh Plate, Challenge Stakes and Star Kingdom Stakes. Most trainers use these as the ideal lead up race to The Galaxy, so good form in those races is good form for this race.
Look at backing horses that have a barrier closer to the inside, as these horses have more of a chance of winning in this particular race. Steer clear of Fillies, it’s been over a decade since the last filly won (La Baraka, 1998). However 3yo horses have a good record.
| Year | Winner | Track | Time | Trainer | Jockey |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Nicconi | Dead | 1:03.55 | D Hayes | C Williams |
| 2008 | Typhoon Zed | Dead | 1:04.12 | T Martin | T Clark |
| 2007 | Magnus | Dead | 1:03.26 | P Moody | D Oliver |
| 2006 | Propietor | Good | 1:03.18 | P Perry | S Baster |
| 2005 | Charge Forward | Slow | 1:04.76 | J O'Shea | D Beadman |
| 2004 | Spark of Life | Dead | 1:03.70 | A Denham | C Munce |
| 2003 | Snowland | Slow | 1:04.53 | G Waterhouse | C Munce |
| 2002 | Mistegic | Good | 1:02.78 | L Curtis | G Boss |
| 2001 | Padstow | Good | 1:04.08 | J Pride | D Beadman |
| 2000 | Black Bean | Good | 1:02.97 | M Ellerton | B Prebble |