Coal Crusher may not hold the title of Joe Pride’s most talented horse, but he is unquestionably the most adored, and on Saturday he delivered another unforgettable moment.
The battle-hardened eight-year-old created history at Newcastle by becoming the first dual winner of the $1 million The Hunter (1300m), successfully repeating his 2023 triumph.
While he had not won since that victory, he had remained a consistent competitor, finishing in the placings in a number of stakes races — including a strong third in last year’s running of The Hunter behind Briasa.
No one felt the significance of Saturday’s win more than Pride’s son, Brave, who straps the gelding and shares a deep connection with him. The 19-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable spring highlighted by Group 1 wins with Ceolwulf and Attica, but said this result topped the lot.
“He is like no other horse I’ve looked after. He is so special to me,” Brave Pride said.
“He’s by Turffonetin. He wasn’t meant to be any good but he’s just so tough.
“I’ve been part of some amazing wins this year with Attica and Ceolwulf and this is the best. I love this horse.”
Coal Crusher’s gritty win took his tally to 10 career victories, holding off Accredited ($11), who charged late to complete a stable quinella, with local hope Brudenell ($41) finishing third.
Favourite Yorkshire endured a tough run, posted deep without cover throughout, and faded out to run last.
Chad Schofield was aboard the winner, backing up his recent Group 1 success with Pride in the Champions Mile at Flemington.
Schofield said the key was getting Coal Crusher to control the race once he rolled forward.
“He broke well but he didn’t show as much gate speed as he usually does so I just had to urge him along to establish the lead,” Schofield said.
“Once I got there, I actually had it quite soft for the first six hundred metres.
“I was quite confident when I banked those cheap sectionals early because I knew he’d give me a really strong last six hundred and that’s the horse’s asset.
“He’s tough as nails. He is a lovely old horse, and he was spot-on today.”
Pride said he expects Coal Crusher to continue racing happily next preparation and sees no reason the gelding can’t attempt a historic third win in The Hunter.
“This is his race . . . I’d love to think we could have him back for it again next year,” he said.
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