Warrior Rothfire back to his best in the 2025 Sydney Stakes

Veteran sprinter Rothfire reminded everyone of his class and courage with a stirring victory in the $2 million Sydney Stakes (1200m) at Randwick, ending a lengthy winless spell and reigniting memories of his brilliant early career. The win came under an Everest warm-up ride from champion jockey Zac Purton, who guided the eight-year-old to a narrow but emotional success.

Rothfire ($13) surged between runners late to score by a short neck over Iowna Merc ($21), with With Your Blessing ($20) another long neck back in third. For trainer Robert Heathcote, the moment was particularly special — a fitting reward for years of patience and perseverance following the gelding’s well-documented injury battles.

“It means so much because the journey that this horse has taken us on — I’ve had him in three Everests,” Heathcote said. “We could have been 35 minutes away from his fourth but I’ll take this consolation.”

“He injured himself in the Golden Rose five years ago and it took us 18 months to get him back. People ask what is the biggest win in your life and I always say ‘Buff’ (Buffering) winning in Dubai, but this goes right up there close with all he’s been through.”

Heathcote revealed that the key to Rothfire’s resurgence came through the combined efforts of both Purton and fellow jockey Nash Rawiller, who helped secure the Hong Kong-based star for the ride. “I have to thank Nash,” Heathcote said. “He’s the one who said, ‘Zac won’t have a ride and I’ll call him to tell him to ride this horse.’ That bit of help made all the difference.”

The Brisbane trainer was also quick to point out the horse’s resilience, having battled back from major injuries and several unlucky runs — including a tough-luck effort in the Group 1 Doomben 10,000 (1200m) and a strong showing in the Manikato Stakes.

“He’s defied veterinary critics for so long and here he is winning a $2 million race,” Heathcote said proudly. “Those two bone chips on my desk are a reminder of everything he’s overcome. He’s the definition of toughness.”

Rothfire’s future now remains open, with Heathcote hinting at more big-race targets rather than retirement. “He’s sound, he’s happy, and he’s racing with that spark again — that’s all you can ask for,” he said.

For punters eager to follow Rothfire’s next start or wager on major spring events such as The Everest, head to Australia’s leading betting sites for up-to-date odds, expert tips, and exclusive offers.