Blonde Star causes upset in the 2026 Hobart Cup

Blonde Star delivered a stunning upset in the Hobart Cup (2400m) at the 2026 carnival, handing trainer Imogen Miller and jockey Erica Byrne Burke their maiden Group 3 triumph.

Sent out at $31, the daughter of Starcraft dug deep to deny the race favourite in a gripping photo finish, while also setting a new track record over the 2400m journey at Elwick.

The victory ensured the Hobart Cup remained in Tasmanian hands for the first time since Toorak Affair claimed the prize in 2020.

The success was particularly satisfying for Miller after Blonde Star endured some minor issues following her previous outing.

"We knew she'd run well today. Things didn't really go our way at Devonport, so it's probably been unlucky there," she said.

"I thought her run was good last start, but maybe she wasn't at her best, and she pulled up and had a few little niggling issues in between runs, so really very happy obviously with her today.

"She's a ripping little horse and she's a beautiful horse to have around. She tries hard, she's consistent. I mean, can't really fault her. We all love her."

Training partner and former jockey Brendon McCoul shared the confidence the stable had built leading into the staying feature.

"This last week, since her last run, we've been really, really happy with her. I said to the owners before the race, we're a lot more confident with her leading into this."

"It's obviously a tougher race than last start here, but we were much happier with her leading into this race. Very confident she'd run well and ecstatic to get the win."

Jumping from barrier five, Byrne Burke settled the mare three-wide with cover in the early stages.

Approaching the 800m, the Irish hoop made her move, improving around runners before sweeping even wider on the bend as the field straightened for the run home.

Blonde Star surged to the front in the straight and refused to yield, fighting off determined challenges from both Ziryab and Taramansour in a desperate finish.

The mare hit the line locked together with Ziryab, prompting a tense wait before stewards confirmed number nine as the winner.

An emotional Byrne Burke struggled to contain her excitement after the milestone victory.

"I'm in disbelief. I didn't believe it until I came back and saw the number and everyone's cheering, but, yeah, I can't believe it," she said.

"She was so good. I can probably say now I gave it a bad ride. I wanted to do this for Brendon and (Imogen), and all the owners, it's just great.

"I was just saying in my head, just don't hit the front too soon. It's a long way from home. But, God, she was gutsy.

"To win a Hobart Cup, it doesn't really feel real. For Brendon and Imogen to keep me on his horse, they've been very good and great supporters. I'm kind of lost for words, really. It's just brilliant."

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