New Zealand sprinting sensation Crocetti has been confirmed for the Kia-Quokka (1200m) at Ascot, with Trackside NZ/Perth Racing securing the gelding for their slot in the prestigious $5 million race next month.

Set to carry the hopes of Kiwi racing fans, the four-year-old brings an outstanding record to Western Australia’s premier sprint, boasting nine wins and three placings from 14 starts, including two Group 1 triumphs.

Crocetti’s NZ 2000 Guineas (1600m) and Sistema Railway (1200m) victories in January cemented his reputation as a top-class sprinter, earning him the Champion Sprint Series title and a $300,000 summer bonus.

Trained by Danny Walker and Arron Tata, Crocetti gained widespread attention in 2023 with a remarkable seven-race winning streak, making him one of the most exciting horses in New Zealand.

Owner and co-breeder Daniel Nakhle said the decision to race in Perth was an easy one.

“This horse has already provided us with so much fun and excitement in his career,” Nakhle said. “To take it to the next level with this trip to Perth alongside the Trackside NZ and Perth Racing teams is another memorable step along a pretty amazing journey.”

Crocetti’s latest outing was on March 8, where he finished runner-up to Alabama Lass in a 1200m sprint.

Perth Racing CEO James Oldring believes Crocetti’s presence in the Quokka will only strengthen the race’s appeal, particularly among New Zealand punters.

“We’ve watched the New Zealand racing with interest over the summer, and to get the Champion Sprint Series winner as the Kiwi representative is a fantastic result,” Oldring said. “We saw great wagering results on The Kia Quokka last year in New Zealand through our slot partnership with Trackside NZ, and with a boom sprinter like Crocetti, we expect that Kiwi interest in racing in Perth will continue to grow.”

In Tabtouch futures betting, Crocetti is priced at $15, while Overpass, the only horse to have won the Quokka, remains the $2.75 favourite to complete a historic three-peat.