Private Harry sets sights on The Everest, skips G1 TJ Smith Stakes

One of the highly anticipated Group 1 races at Randwick this Saturday will proceed without undefeated sprinter Private Harry, who has been withdrawn from the $3 million T J Smith Stakes.

On Monday morning, co-owner Kurrinda Bloodstock confirmed that the talented Harry Angel colt, who recently secured victory in The Galaxy, will head to the paddock for a spell, with connections shifting their sights to the spring.

“Private Harry is a very exciting, undefeated colt. What he has achieved so far is outstanding and it needs to be remembered that his first start was only in November 2024,” Kurrinda said in a statement.

“Whilst running Private Harry in the T J Smith Stakes 2025 is tempting, we feel he will benefit greatly from the opportunity to rest in anticipation of the Spring Carnival and, ultimately, the 2025 TAB Everest.

“Private Harry returns to the paddock a happy, healthy and sound horse.”

Private Harry’s participation in this year’s $20 million The Everest is already secured, after Yulong—owner of an Everest slot—acquired a 50 percent share in the Nathan Doyle-trained galloper.

His victory in The Galaxy marked his fifth career start and first since dominating the $3 million The Sunlight at the Sunshine Coast on January 4, where he outclassed Golden Slipper winner Lady Of Camelot by 2-1/2 lengths.

Following his withdrawal, Newmarket Handicap champion Joliestar has strengthened her position as the race favourite, while Briasa, who finished fourth in The Galaxy, now shares second favoritism with Sunshine In Paris.

The T J Smith Stakes is one of the marquee events on Day 1 of The Championships, alongside the $4 million Doncaster Mile (1600m), the $2 million ATC Australian Derby (2400m), and the $1 million ATC Sires’ (1400m).