Apocalyptic ending to 2025 Furious Stakes

Randwick witnessed the re-emergence of a star on Saturday when Apocalyptic broke her maiden in the best possible way, capturing the Group 2 Furious Stakes (1200m). Trainer Michael Freedman, who once rated her above Golden Slipper winner Marhoona as a juvenile, finally saw his faith rewarded.

Apocalyptic’s career had been delayed by setbacks. After an eye-catching second on debut in December, she was touted as a leading Golden Slipper chance but never made it to the autumn after a troublesome foot abscess. Freedman admitted he was nervous entering her in the Princess Series opener against hardened rivals as a maiden. “It’s not the traditional path, but she’s always shown us that much ability. I just hoped we weren’t making a mistake.”

Instead, the filly produced a stirring finish to overhaul Tupakara ($12) by a half-neck, with the consistent Savvy Hallie ($2.90 fav) running another solid race for third. Sent out at $5, Apocalyptic proved she belonged at the top level.

Looking ahead, Freedman is eyeing the Tea Rose Stakes (1400m) and the Group 1 Flight Stakes (1600m). “She’s such a big, relaxed girl, she’s always given the impression she’d thrive over more ground,” he said. “Today was a stepping stone, and as long as she pulls up well, we’ll head that way.”

Jockey Tommy Berry was full of admiration for her resilience and class. “Michael joked all week about running a maiden in a race like this, but it shows what we’ve always believed. She’s a serious filly. We thought she was our Slipper filly, and while setbacks got in the way, she’s back now and in great shape.”

In winning, Apocalyptic delivered Freedman consecutive Furious Stakes victories, repeating the feat of stablemate Manaal from last year.