War Machine clinches 2025 Stradbroke Handicap

War Machine has emerged as one of the nation’s brightest sprinting prospects after claiming a dominant victory in the Stradbroke Handicap at Eagle Farm, sparking excitement around a possible start in this year’s The Everest.

Previously trained by the late Mike Moroney, the four-year-old has flourished under the care of Ben, Will, and JD Hayes, maintaining a flawless record since joining the stable three runs ago.

Ben Hayes confirmed the stable is open to any interest from Everest slot holders, even if it results in a face-off with Ka Ying Rising—trained by their father, David Hayes, and already a hot favourite for the $20 million race.

“They’re all the problems we’ve got now,” Ben Hayes said.

“I might be having to take on my old man’s horse, Ka Ying Rising, but you’ve got to be in it to win it.”

With Blake Shinn sidelined due to injury, Tim Clark was given the chance to ride the $3.20 favourite. From a wide barrier, he settled War Machine three-wide with cover before producing a powerful sprint in the straight to seal the win.

Private Eye ($11) loomed large but faded to third, while outsider Yellow Brick ($41) launched late to secure second, but neither could catch the eventual winner.

“He travelled so well. I probably let him loose a bit early but it was his grand final, there is no tomorrow, so I wasn’t going to die wondering,” said Clark, who previously won the Stradbroke Handicap (1400m) aboard Alligator Blood in 2022.

“He really let rip. Maybe wandered a bit late. I could feel Yellow Brick coming late and he surged again.

“I love getting up to Queensland and to win the ‘Straddie’ has just iced what has been a great carnival.”

Hayes noted that War Machine’s lead-in to the race was ideal and praised his build and athleticism, drawing comparisons to multiple Group 1 winner Mr Brightside.

“They expect him to be a big, powerful horse but he’s got a physique like Mr Brightside so hopefully he is the same,” Hayes said.

With The Everest now a realistic target, punters can follow War Machine’s progress and place bets through the best betting sites Australia offering premium odds and exclusive promotions.

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