Apocalyptic far too good for rivals in the Tea Rose Stakes 2025

Star filly Apocalyptic stamped herself as a genuine top-liner with a dominant display in the Tea Rose Stakes at Randwick.

Sent out at $3, the Michael Freedman-trained filly sat wide throughout but still produced a dazzling burst to win by 1-3/4 lengths, confirming her as outright favourite for the Group 1 Flight Stakes in two weeks.

“I think she’s pretty special,” Freedman said. “I was very impressed with her first-up two weeks ago but overcoming a few difficulties today… to let down like that, you don’t get too many horses that can do it.”

Already a winner of the Furious Stakes, Apocalyptic now has back-to-back Princess Series victories and bookmakers slashed her odds from $4.50 into $2.20 for the Flight. Freedman is confident the step to 1600m will only suit. “She did relax a little bit better today even though she didn’t have cover, which gives me encouragement going up to the mile,” he said.

Jockey Tommy Berry joked about his trainer’s nerves but said he was always comfortable. “I would have loved a heart monitor on Michael halfway around,” Berry said. “She’s got such a big stride… I didn’t really mind being wide. We’ve had a big wrap on her for a long time and today she showed why.”

Artistic Venture ($41) was a strong-finishing runner-up, while Tupakara ($2.50 fav) boxed on for third in another honest performance.