The 2026 TJ Smith Stakes ran on Saturday April 4 at Randwick, Sydney, and was won by Chris Waller's now five-time Group 1 winning mare Joliestar ($3.90F)!
| 6. Joliestar (5) J: James McDonald56.5kg 53x11T: Chris Waller | ||
| 3. Giga Kick (6) J: Zac Purton58.5kg 11x54T: Clayton Douglas | ||
| 9. Skybird (4) J: John Allen56.5kg x69x5T: Mitchell Freedman | ||
| 4. Overpass (7) J: Josh Parr58.5kg x423xT: Bjorn Baker | ||
| 1. Jimmysstar (2) J: Ethan Brown58.5kg 311x7T: Ciaron Maher | ||
| 5. Mazu (9) J: Rachel King58.5kg 93x33T: Joseph Pride | ||
| 8. Magic Time (3) J: Michael Dee56.5kg 302x9T: Grahame Begg | ||
| 2. Briasa (8) J: Tyler Schiller58.5kg 189x4T: M, W & J Hawkes | ||
| 7. Tentyris (1) J: Mark Zahra56.5kg 11x15T: Anthony & Sam Freedman |
TJ Smith Stakes Info
- 2026 TJ Smith Stakes Date: Saturday the 4th of April 2026
- Track Location: Randwick Racecourse, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Distance: 1,200m
- Conditions: Weight-For-Age
- Status: Group 1
- Prize Money (AUD): $3,000,000
- First Run: 1997
- Reigning TJ Smith Stakes Winner: Joliestar (2026)
Looking for the latest TJ Smith Stakes betting odds, insider racing tips and form for the Randwick Group 1 weight-for-age sprint race this April? The TAB NZ have all the best betting guides and statistics to make informed bets on the TJ Smith Stakes race this autumn!
The Group 1 TJ Smith Stakes is a prestigious weight-for-age sprint test for Australia’s top short-distance racehorses. It is one of the most popular Group 1 races held each Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival and traditionally takes place at Sydney’s Randwick Racecourse on the first Saturday in April as one of the highlights of Doncaster Mile Day on Day 1 of the coveted The Championships conducted by the Australian Turf Club.
It is considered one of Australia’s premier WFA sprint races and attracts some of the best shorter-distance horses in the country with an impressive AU$3 million in prize money on offer.
To improve your chances of predicting the next TJ Smith Stakes winner, access the latest TJ Smith Stakes odds and tips online at the TAB NZ.
TAB NZ provides in-depth analysis, form guides, and betting insights to help you navigate the competitive field of autumn contenders.
Whether you’re a seasoned punter or new to betting on the horse races in Australia and New Zealand, our comprehensive TJ Smith Stakes coverage has everything you need.
Feel the lightning speed of autumn’s premier sprinters! Back your champion in the TJ Smith Stakes at the right price through the TAB NZ today!
TJ Smith Stakes Fast Facts
- Last mare to win the TJ Smith Stakes: Joliestar (2026)
- Last three-year-old to win the TJ Smith Stakes: Trapeze Artist (2018)
- Last filly to win the TJ Smith Stakes: Melito (2010)
- Last multiple TJ Smith Stakes winner: Nature Strip (2020-22)
- Last favourite to win the TJ Smith Stakes: Joliestar ($3.90 in 2026)
- Notable Fact: The 2021 TJ Smith trifecta was replicated in The Everest six months later with Nature Strip, Masked Crusader and Eduardo running 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively in both races!
Bet on the next TJ Smith Stakes now!
TJ Smith Stakes Betting Info
TJ Smith Stakes betting is open months ahead of the Group 1 Randwick, autumn race at the TAB NZ.
We offer pre-nomination TJ Smith Stakes betting odds throughout the year that are known as futures TJ Smith Stakes odds online.
All-In TJ Smith Stakes betting markets are then available following the official TJ Smith Stakes nominations taken in early February.
Betting on the TJ Smith Stakes field is available following final acceptances on the Tuesday of race week.
Betting on the TJ Smith Stakes favours the locally trained sprint champions from the best Australian horse racing stables in Sydney and Melbourne.
TJ Smith Stakes race betting traditionally focuses on any past Group 1 winning gallopers who have an outstanding record in the event and the star geldings in the mix who have dominated recent results.
TJ Smith Stakes race tips centre on the standout weight-for-age champion thoroughbreds in Australia and New Zealand that have good lead-up form in similar grade autumn events, horses with previous experience at the Randwick track and the runners from the key stables including the Chris Waller yard who have dominated TJ Smith Stakes race results, most recently with Joliestar in 2026.
The TJ Smith Stakes is a weight-for-age event open to horses of all ages and genders.
Expert Tips on the 2026 TJ Smith Stakes
Stay tuned for our expert tips and TJ Smith Stakes betting predictions ahead of this year’s Group 1 feature at Randwick.
TJ Smith Stakes Tips
TJ Smith Stakes tips on which horse will win the next edition of New South Wales’ 1200m feature flood in as the countdown to the important Randwick race heats up.
TJ Smith Stakes race tips on what horse will win the event this year are highly sought after by smart punters and racing fans every season.
When looking at TJ Smith Stakes race tips it is important to consider factors including:
- What horses in the TJ Smith Stakes field are proven over the 1,200m distance?
- Who the key TJ Smith Stakes trainers and jockeys are and what horses they have in the TJ Smith Stakes field this year?
- TJ Smith Stakes barrier statistics and where your TJ Smith Stakes betting selections are drawn.
- TJ Smith Stakes horses that have a good past record at the track.
How long does it take to know if you placed a winning TJ Smith Stakes race tip? The event itself takes around one minute and 10 seconds for the competing horses to run the 1,200m trip depending on track conditions.
The official TJ Smith Stakes winner and winning TJ Smith Stakes trifecta are known shortly after unless there is a protest or a photo-finish TJ Smith Stakes result.
Who holds the TJ Smith Stakes race record? Trapeze Artist holds the current TJ Smith Stakes record winning in 2018 in a time of 1 minute 08:29 seconds.
What are the best TJ Smith Stakes lead-up races to look at when placing a TJ Smith Stakes bet?
There are a number of earlier autumn races TJ Smith Stakes bound horses may contest in the lead-up including February’s Group 1 Oakleigh Plate (1100m) run at Caulfield, Sydney’s Group 1 The Galaxy (1100m) at Rosehill, the Group 1 William Reid Stakes (1200m) at The Valley, and Flemington’s Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m).
Lankan Rupee (2014) was the last horse to complete the Oakleigh Plate / TJ Smith Stakes double in the same year.
No runner has completed The Galaxy / TJ Smith Stakes double in the same year since the filly La Baraka (1998).
Black Caviar (2013) was the last horse to complete the William Reid Stakes / TJ Smith Stakes double in the same year.
Lankan Rupee (2014) was the last horse to complete the Newmarket Handicap / TJ Smith Stakes double.
Australian-Bred Horses in the TJ Smith Stakes
Betting on the Australian-bred horses in the field is hugely popular with punters, and the race results show an absolute dominate strike-rate by the locally foaled sprinters in the event.
Since 2005 there has been just one TJ Smith Stakes winner foaled outside of Australia with the New Zealand bred I Wish I Win in 2023.
TJ Smith Stakes Tips for a Trifecta
TJ Smith Stakes tips for a trifecta cover the first three horses to officially go past the finishing post in the TJ Smith Stakes results.
The horse to finish on top of the TJ Smith Stakes trifecta is your TJ Smith Stakes winner, the runner who outlasted all their rivals and finished in the fastest time.
Placing a TJ Smith Stakes trifecta exotic bet on the race is a great way to add to the thrill and potentially be rewarded with a generous pay-out.
A TJ Smith Stakes trifecta is only successful if the three horses in your bet finish in the exact order you predict. Punters may choose instead to box their trifecta bets on the TJ Smith Stakes to cover more finishing options and increase the chances of winning.
Adding the favourite into your TJ Smith Stakes trifecta bet is a top tip as the favourites have a strong recent strike-rate running in the money.
Key TJ Smith Stakes Statistics and Insights
Place an informed bet on this year’s TJ Smith Stakes by considering the following key statistics and insights:
- Win Rates: Horses with high win rates in similar races are strong contenders for the TJ Smith Stakes. Our TJ Smith Stakes betting tips available at the TAB NZ Punters Lounge provide detailed win rate statistics.
- Place Percentages: Evaluate horses with consistent place percentages, indicating reliability and competitiveness. TJ Smith Stakes race tips offer comprehensive data on place percentages.
- Barrier Success Rates: Horses starting from barriers 8 – 12 historically shown a higher success rate in the TJ Smith Stakes.
2026 TJ Smith Stakes Field
Nominations close: Tuesday February 10, 2026, at 12:00PM AEDT
First acceptances close: Tuesday March 10, 2026, at 12:00PM AEDT
Weights declared by: Tuesday March 31, 2026, at 4:00PM AEDT
Acceptances must be declared before: Tuesday March 31, 2026, at 8:00AM AEDT
Riders must be declared before: Wednesday April 1, 2026, at 12:00PM AEDT
TJ Smith Stakes betting takes place on the prestigious race which is held at Sydney’s Royal Randwick Racecourse on a Saturday in early April on Day 1 of ‘The Championships’.
TJ Smith Stakes odds are offered on the esteemed Group 1 weight-for-age event, and the field attracts a host of quality thoroughbreds many of which are eyeing other Group 1 targets later in the year during the spring and internationally.
The Group 1 TJ Smith Stakes is one of Australia’s most famous autumn horse races despite having only been run since 1997 as the Endeavour Stakes and won for the first time by Mahogany.
It was known as the Endeavour Stakes from 1997 before being renamed in 1999 as the TJ Smith Stakes to honour legendary Sydney trainer Thomas John (TJ) Smith, who won 33 racing titles in Sydney, and who is the father of Gai Waterhouse – an incredible trainer in her own right!
It has been a key event on Australia’s racing calendar for nearly 30 years and continues to attract the best horses, jockeys and trainers from across the country and New Zealand.
The standout TJ Smith Stakes winners, including legends like Black Caviar, who remained undefeated in her career with 25 wins; Chautauqua, known for his incredible finishing burst and three consecutive wins in the race; and Nature Strip, who secured three consecutive victories and showcased his dominance in both Australian and international sprints, have left an indelible mark on the history of this prestigious race. Their exceptional talent, consistency, and memorable performances have made them icons in the world of horse racing.
Winning the TJ Smith Stakes is a significant achievement in the racing community, and the event attracts lots of attention from punters both locally and internationally in New Zealand.
Taking place at Randwick Racecourse in New South Wales on the east coast of Australia, the TJ Smith Stakes is a 1200m event and only the top racehorses prevail in the Doncaster Mile Day feature race.
The TJ Smith Stakes was elevated to Group 1 status in 2005 the year Shamekha won.
Doncaster Mile Day
The Doncaster Mile Day is one of the highlights of the Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival. In 2026, it will be held on Saturday, April 4th at Royal Randwick Racecourse. This day features a ten-race card, with the Doncaster Mile being the headlining event. The race attracts some of the best milers and middle-distance horses in Australia, competing for a prize pool of $4 million.
In addition to the Doncaster Mile, the day includes other prestigious races such as the Group 1 TJ Smith Stakes, the Group 1 Australian Derby, and the Group 1 ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes. It’s a day filled with excitement, top-class racing, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-attend event for racing enthusiasts.
Key Doncaster Mile Day races:
- Doncaster Mile (Group 1): The headline event, a 1,600m race for three-year-olds and older, with a prize pool of $4 million.
- TJ Smith Stakes (Group 1): A premier sprint race over 1,200m, attracting top sprinters from around the country.
- Australian Derby (Group 1): A classic 2,400m race for three-year-olds, showcasing future staying stars.
- ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes (Group 1): A 1,400m race for two-year-olds, often featuring promising young horses.
- Chairman’s Quality (Group 2): A 2,600m race for stayers, serving as a lead-up to the Sydney Cup.
- Adrian Knox Stakes (Group 3): A 2,000m race for three-year-old fillies, often a stepping-stone to the Australian Oaks.
- Carbine Club Stakes (Group 3): A 1,600m race for three-year-olds, highlighting emerging milers.
- PJ Bell Stakes (Group 3): A 1,200m sprint for three-year-old fillies, showcasing speed and talent.
These races make Doncaster Mile Day a thrilling event for racing enthusiasts, with a mix of sprints, middle-distance, and staying races.
Get the best Doncaster Mile Day racing odds for Randwick, racing stats, previews, form and insider tips on races like the TJ Smith Stakes now at the TAB NZ!
Where can you bet on the TJ Smith Stakes?
The best place to bet on this year’s TJ Smith Stakes race is through the TAB NZ online.
TJ Smith Stakes Odds
TJ Smith Stakes and online betting tips on the TJ Smith Stakes horse race in Australia are dominated by proven Group 1 horses, the locally trained sprinters in the race and backing the older horses in the mix who have a strong recent record over their younger counterparts in the event.
Where can I find the latest TJ Smith Stakes odds?
For the latest odds and updates on the TJ Smith Stakes, TAB NZ is your go-to source. They provide real-time odds fluctuations, ensuring you have the most current information to make informed betting decisions. It’s crucial to monitor these odds closely, as they reflect the market’s perception of each horse’s chances, influenced by factors like form, barrier draw, and track conditions.
How to Place a Bet on the TJ Smith Stakes
Want to know how to make a bet on the TJ Smith Stakes? Visit the TAB NZ racing page to access the latest TJ Smith Stakes betting odds and options.
It is simple to learn how to place a bet on the TJ Smith Stakes online.
You can place a TJ Smith Stakes bet online anytime markets are live.
There are more ways than ever to get involved in betting on the TJ Smith Stakes.
From seasoned punters analysing form guides to casual racing fans drawn to the excitement, the TJ Smith Stakes is a race for everyone.
Whether you’re diving deep into the latest TJ Smith Stakes race field, joining a sweepstake with friends, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of the autumn Randwick racing, the TJ Smith Stakes has it all!
This important autumn race showcases Australia’s finest thoroughbreds and attracts attention from all over the country and here in New Zealand as one of the best events in the autumn!
How to Bet on the TJ Smith Stakes this year?
1. Log in or sign-up with TAB NZ.
2. Make a secure online deposit using one of the TAB NZ safe deposit methods.
3. Check out the TJ Smith Stakes betting guide, TJ Smith Stakes form guide and our expert TJ Smith Stakes tips.
4. Choose a TJ Smith Stakes bet to place such as Win, Place, Each-Way or the TJ Smith Stakes Trifecta. There are many more TJ Smith Stakes betting options available so make sure to check out our TJ Smith Stakes betting markets.
5. Select the TJ Smith Stakes horse you want to bet on from the early markets, TJ Smith Stakes nominations or TJ Smith Stakes field.
TJ Smith Stakes Prize Money
The TJ Smith Stakes prize money is set at A$3 million in total stakes allocated between first to tenth place.
How much does the TJ Smith Stakes winner get?
The winning TJ Smith Stakes horse receives a total of A$1,725,000 in prize money.
See below for the official breakdown of TJ Smith Stakes prizes on offer from the TJ Smith Stakes winner to the tenth horse to cross the finish line in the official TJ Smith Stakes results.
First: A$1,725,000
Second: A$560,000
Third: A$280,000
Fourth: A$135,000
Fifth: A$75,000
Sixth: A$40,000
Seventh – Eighth: A$35,000
Ninth – Tenth: A$20,000
How many horses have won the TJ Smith Stakes more than once?
Three horses have won multiple editions of the TJ Smith Stakes, most recently Nature Strip (2020, 2021 & 2022).
Incredibly, the event has already seen two triple champions with Chautauqua (2015-17) and Nature Strip (2020-22).
Multiple TJ Smith Stakes winners: Chautauqua (2015-17), Black Caviar (2011 & 2013), and Nature Strip (2020-22).
What makes betting on the TJ Smith Stakes so popular?
The fact that the TJ Smith Stakes is one of the standout Group 1 weight-for-age sprint races run during the Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival and one of the key April horse races in Australasia make it a must watch and must bet on racing event.
The TJ Smith Stakes is a popular short-distance race that has produced a host of subsequent Group 1 winning horses both locally and across the Tasman.
The TJ Smith Stakes is a showcase of pure speed, with Australasia’s quickest horses delivering a high-octane performance that captivates audiences and fuels a dynamic betting market.
The TJ Smith Stakes field consistently attracts high-class sprinters, often including international competitors, which adds a layer of intrigue and excitement to the race.
Sprint races often provide clear and concise form lines, allowing punters to analyse speed ratings, track records, and recent performances with greater confidence.
The TJ Smith Stakes often serves as a key lead-up race to other major events especially the famous spring sprint races later in the year.
For the best online betting on the TJ Smith Stakes, consider tipping a horse to win both the TJ Smith Stakes and another Group 1 race over the carnival in an autumn race double!
The race’s competitive nature and the presence of high-profile horses provide numerous betting opportunities, from win/place bets to exotic bets like trifectas and quinellas.
What makes the TJ Smith Stakes so special?
The TJ Smith Stakes is held at Randwick Racecourse, known for its world-class facilities and for being home to some of the autumn’s biggest events, making it a favourite destination for racegoers in New South Wales.
It is a key feature of the Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival, one of Australia’s premier racing events. This generates a heightened level of excitement and interest.
The race provides an opportunity to see some of the fastest horses in the world compete against each other.
The TJ Smith Stakes provides a great betting event due to the high-quality horses that race, the high level of the race itself, and the fun social setting that comes with a large race day.
It serves as a great guide historically to other important Australian and New Zealand Group 1 races so using the TJ Smith Stakes winners’ list for upcoming Group events is popular with punters.
It is a highly competitive and prestigious race that grows in popularity each autumn.
Australian and international racing fans, including those in New Zealand, tune into the thrilling 1200m autumn event every season to see if their bets on the TJ Smith Stakes race won!
The significant prize money associated with the TJ Smith Stakes increases the stakes and excitement for both participants and punters.
The TJ Smith currently offers AU$3,000,000 in prize money plus bragging rights with jockeys, trainers and owners from across the country and further abroad keen to add their names to the list of TJ Smith Stakes champions.
What are the popular betting markets for the TJ Smith Stakes?
When it comes to betting on the TJ Smith Stakes, there are a number of more popular betting options with punters including:
Exotics: These include Quinella, Trifecta, and First Four, where you predict the specific order of finishers, offering potentially higher payouts but requiring more precise predictions.
Win & Place: Bet on a horse to win or finish in the top places. This is one of the most straightforward and popular betting options.
Each-Way: A combination of win and place bets, providing a safety net if your chosen horse doesn’t win but finishes in the top positions.
How many fillies and mares have won the TJ Smith Stakes?
Nine fillies and mares have won the TJ Smith Stakes.
The TJ Smith Stakes winning mares are Spinning Hill (2003), Shamekha (2005), Black Caviar (2011 & 2013), Chain Of Lightning (2024) and most recently Joliestar (2026).
The TJ Smith Stakes winning fillies are La Baraka (1998), Dilly Dally (2004), and Melito (2010).
What age group has the best recent TJ Smith Stakes record?
Four-year-olds and six-year-olds have dominated the TJ Smith Stakes results in recent years with seven from each age group saluting between 2000 and 2026, most recently Briasa (4YO in 2025) and Nature Strip (6YO in 2021).
The youngest recent TJ Smith Stakes winner was Trapeze Artist who saluted as a three-year-old in 2018.
The oldest recent TJ Smith Stakes winner was Takeover Target who saluted as a nine-year-old in 2009.
Between 2000 and 2026 the breakdown of TJ Smith Stakes winners by age is as follows:
3YOs – 5 (latest Trapeze Artist in 2018)
4YOs – 7 (latest Briasa in 2025)
5YOs – 6 (latest Joliestar in 2024)
6YOs – 7 (latest Nature Strip in 2021)
7YOs – 1 (latest Nature Strip in 2022)
8YOs – 0
9YOs – 1 (latest Takeover Target in 2009)
What races will runners out of the TJ Smith Stakes target next?
While many horses may head to the paddock to prepare for a spring returning following a run in the TJ Smith, some gallopers will race on and target upcoming autumn Group 1 features including the Group 1 All Aged Stakes (1400m) in late April. The Brisbane Winter Racing Carnival sprint races also make good targets for TJ Smith Stakes graduates including the Group 1 Doomben 10,000 (1200m) and the Group 1 Kingsford Smith Cup(1300m).
Trapeze Artist (2018) was the last horse to complete the TJ Smith Stakes / All Aged Stakes double.
Apache Cat (2008) was the last horse to complete the TJ Smith Stakes / Doomben 10,000 double.
Black Caviar (2011) was the last horse to complete the TJ Smith Stakes / Kingsford Smith Cup double.
TJ Smith Stakes Barriers
The TJ Smith Stakes barrier draw and allocated TJ Smith Stakes starting gates play a key role for many punters when deciding on what horses to bet on in the big race.
What is the most successful recent TJ Smith Stakes barrier draw?
Barriers 11 and 5 have both produced five TJ Smith Stakes winners each between 2000 and 2026, most recently Nature Strip (barrier 11 in 2022) and barrier 5 (Joliestar in 2026).
Barrier 12 is the widest gate to produce a TJ Smith Stakes winner between 2000 and 2026, most recently I Wish I Win (2023).
Barrier 8 is the latest to produce back-to-back TJ Smith Stakes winners with Trapeze Artist (2018) and Santa Ana Lane (2019).
Barrier 5 is the latest TJ Smith Stakes winning barrier with Joliestar in 2026.
Breakdown of winning TJ Smith Stakes barriers between 2000-26:
Barrier 1 – 3 (latest Nature Strip in 2020)
Barrier 2 – 2 (latest Chain Of Lightning in 2024)
Barrier 3 – 1 (latest Briasa in 2025)
Barrier 4 – 4 (latest Nature Strip in 2021)
Barrier 5 – 5 (latest Joliestar in 2026)
Barrier 6 – 1 (latest Takeover Target in 2009)
Barrier 7 – 2 (latest Melito in 2010)
Barrier 8 – 3 (latest Santa Ana Lane in 2019)
Barrier 9 – 0
Barrier 10 – 0
Barrier 11 – 5 (latest Nature Strip in 2022)
Barrier 12 – 1 (latest I Wish I Win in 2023)
TJ Smith Stakes Form
We offer a complete TJ Smith Stakes form guide and expert analysis on every horse in the TJ Smith Stakes field in addition to insider TJ Smith Stakes racing tips and betting odds.
Our TJ Smith Stakes form guides include:
- TJ Smith Stakes race preview and predictions
- Racing analysis on the event and runners
- Previous runs, barrier trials and lead-up statistics
- Key information on all horses in the race like trainer and jockey form
- Runner commentary
Whether you are just starting out tipping horses in the TJ Smith Stakes or you are an expert TJ Smith Stakes tipster, our form guide gives you all the statistics and information you need to make a smart bet on the TJ Smith Stakes.
How to Read the TJ Smith Stakes Guide
Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how to interpret a horse’s form and performance indicators when looking at this year’s TJ Smith Stakes form guide:
Barrier Position: Evaluate the horse’s barrier draw and its historical performance from similar starting positions.
Recent Performances: Review the horse’s last few races, focusing on finish positions and the quality of competition faced.
Track and Distance Records: Check the horse’s performance on similar track conditions and distances to gauge suitability.
Jockey and Trainer Stats: Consider the success rates of the jockey and trainer combination, particularly in the TJ Smith Stakes race.
Weight Carried: Analyse how the weight carried in previous races compares to the TJ Smith Stakes as this can impact performance.
TJ Smith Stakes Results
The TJ Smith Stakes results are known when the event takes place in April annually.
You can bet on the TJ Smith Stakes race results weeks ahead of race day with our futures TJ Smith Stakes markets here at the TAB NZ.
Betting on the TJ Smith Stakes results entails picking the TJ Smith Stakes winning horse and we can help you place an informed bet on the TJ Smith Stakes field with our TJ Smith Stakes tips and form guide.
Other TJ Smith Stakes race results include the winning jockeys, trainers, successful barrier and finishing time.
The complete TJ Smith Stakes finishing order shows what position every horse in the field ran.
Some punters even like to place bets on what horse will finish last in the TJ Smith Stakes results!
TJ Smith Stakes exotic results show how all the exotic TJ Smith Stakes bet types resulted like the TJ Smith Stakes Quinella, TJ Smith Stakes Exacta, TJ Smith Stakes Trifecta, and TJ Smith Stakes First Four.
TJ Smith Stakes Jockeys
Securing a ride in the TJ Smith Stakes field is a highly sought-after achievement for jockeys around Australia and New Zealand. Winning this important autumn race is a nice campaign goal for many of Australasia’s top riders looking to secure a Group 1 trophy during the carnival.
What jockeys are riding in the TJ Smith Stakes field is determined by the owners and trainers of the horses, and official TJ Smith Stakes jockey announcements are made in the weeks and days leading up to the race.
James McDonald is the latest TJ Smith Stakes winning jockey having ridden Joliestar to victory in 2026.
James McDonald for his three-peat on Nature Strip (2020-22) is the latest back-to-back TJ Smith Stakes winning jockey.
James McDonald is the most successful TJ Smith Stakes jockey in recent history with four victories, most recently with Joliestar (2026).
Stay tuned to the TAB NZ racing blog to see what jockeys lock in a confirmed ride on one of the TJ Smith Stakes horses this summer.
TJ Smith Stakes Trainers
The most successful trainers in recent TJ Smith Stakes history are Peter Moody with four victories with Black Caviar (2011 & 2013), I Wish I Win (2023), and most recently Chain Of Lightning (2024) who he trained in partnership with Katherine Coleman; Michael Wayne & John Hawkes who won three times with Chautauqua (2015-17) before a record equalling fourth win in 2025 with Briasa; and fellow four-time champion Chris Waller with Nature Strip (2020-22) and Joliestar (2026).
Peter Moody is the latest back-to-back TJ Smith Stakes winning trainer with I Wish I Win (2023) and Chain Of Lightning (2024).
Chris Waller is the latest TJ Smith Stakes winning trainer having prepared Joliestar to victory in 2026.
TJ Smith Stakes Winners
Notable TJ Smith Stakes winners throughout history include:
Mahogany (1997): The inaugural winner of the TJ Smith Stakes, Mahogany was a versatile racehorse known for his success over various distances. He also won the Victoria Derby and the Australian Derby, showcasing his exceptional talent and adaptability.
Spinning Hill (2003): Spinning Hill was a remarkable mare who won the TJ Smith Stakes in 2003. Known for her sprinting prowess, she also claimed victories in the Lightning Stakes and the Manikato Stakes, solidifying her status as one of the top sprinters of her time.
Apache Cat (2008): Apache Cat was a crowd favorite with his distinctive white face and consistent performances. His victory in the TJ Smith Stakes was part of a stellar career that included multiple Group 1 wins, such as the Lightning Stakes and the Australia Stakes.
Takeover Target (2009): An international star, Takeover Target’s win in the TJ Smith Stakes added to his impressive resume, which included victories in the King’s Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Sprinters Stakes in Japan. His rags-to-riches story captivated racing fans worldwide.
Black Caviar (2011, 2013): Undefeated in her career, Black Caviar won the TJ Smith Stakes twice. Her dominance on the track, with 25 wins from 25 starts, including victories in the Lightning Stakes and the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot, made her a global racing icon.
Chautauqua (2015, 2016, 2017): Known for his incredible finishing burst, Chautauqua won the TJ Smith Stakes three times in a row. His remarkable come-from-behind victories, including a memorable win in the Chairman’s Sprint Prize in Hong Kong, earned him the nickname “The Grey Flash”.
Trapeze Artist (2018): Trapeze Artist’s win in the TJ Smith Stakes was part of a successful career that included victories in the Golden Rose and the All Aged Stakes. His versatility and speed made him a standout performer in Australian racing.
Santa Ana Lane (2019): Santa Ana Lane’s victory in the TJ Smith Stakes was one of his five Group 1 wins. Known for his powerful finishing sprints, he also claimed victories in the Stradbroke Handicap and the VRC Sprint Classic.
Nature Strip (2020, 2021, 2022): Nature Strip’s three consecutive wins in the TJ Smith Stakes cemented his status as one of Australia’s top sprinters. His career highlights include victories in The Everest and the King’s Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot, showcasing his speed and consistency.
I Wish I Win (2023): I Wish I Win’s victory in the TJ Smith Stakes was a testament to his resilience and talent. He also won the Golden Eagle, further establishing his reputation as a top-class racehorse.
Chain Of Lightning (2024): Chain Of Lightning’s win in the TJ Smith Stakes was a thrilling upset. Trained by Peter Moody, she also secured victories in the Lightning Stakes and the Manikato Stakes, highlighting her sprinting abilities.
Joliestar (2026): Joliestar won the 2026 TJ Smith to hand trainer Chris Waller a record equalling fourth win in the event by a trainer. The mighty mare celebrated her fifth career Group 1 saluting as the favourite to make it three wins on the trot off another gem of a ride by master hoop James McDonald.
Bet on the next TJ Smith Stakes winner with our comprehensive TJ Smith Stakes form guide and expert TJ Smith Stakes tips at the TAB NZ!
Past TJ Smith Stakes Results
Recent TJ Smith Stakes winners, jockeys, trainers, barriers, and weights carried to victory dating back to the year 2005 are detailed in the below table.
| Year | Winner – Age/Gender Breeding | Jockey | Weight (kgs) | Trainer/s | Barrier |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | JOLIESTAR (AUS) 5M ZOUSTAR (AUS) – JOLIE BAY (AUS) FASTNET ROCK (AUS) | JAMES MCDONALD | 56.5 | CHRIS WALLER | 5 |
| 2025 | BRIASA (AUS) 4G SMART MISSILE (AUS) – MARY’S GRACE (AUS) TWINING (USA) | TYLER SCHILLER | 58.5 | MICHAEL, WAYNE & JOHN HAWKES | 3 |
| 2024 | CHAIN OF LIGHTNING (AUS) 5M FIGHTING SUN (AUS) – MAGIC ART (AUS) PERUGINO (USA) | DAMIAN LANE | 56.5 | PETER G MOODY & KATHERINE COLEMAN | 2 |
| 2023 | I WISH I WIN (NZ) 4G SAVABEEL (AUS) – MAKE A WISH (NZ) PINS (AUS) | L NOLEN | 58.5 | PETER G MOODY | 12 |
| 2022 | NATURE STRIP (AUS) 7G NICCONI (AUS) – STRIKELINE (AUS) DESERT SUN (GB) | JAMES MCDONALD | 58.5 | CHRIS WALLER | 11 |
| 2021 | NATURE STRIP (AUS) 6G NICCONI (AUS) – STRIKELINE (AUS) DESERT SUN (GB) | JAMES MCDONALD | 58.5 | CHRIS WALLER | 4 |
| 2020 | NATURE STRIP (AUS) 5G NICCONI (AUS) – STRIKELINE (AUS) DESERT SUN (GB) | JAMES MCDONALD | 58.5 | CHRIS WALLER | 1 |
| 2019 | SANTA ANA LANE (AUS) 6G LOPE DE VEGA (IRE) – FAST FLEET (AUS) FASTNET ROCK (AUS) | M J ZAHRA | 58.5 | ANTHONY FREEDMAN | 8 |
| 2018 | TRAPEZE ARTIST (AUS) 3C SNITZEL (AUS) – TREPPES (AUS) DOMESDAY (AUS) | T ANGLAND | 56.5 | GERALD RYAN | 8 |
| 2017 | CHAUTAUQUA (AUS) 6G ENCOSTA DE LAGO (AUS) – LOVELY JUBLY (AUS) LION HUNTER (AUS) | TOMMY BERRY | 58.5 | MICHAEL & WAYNE & JOHN HAWKES | 11 |
| 2016 | CHAUTAUQUA (AUS) 5G ENCOSTA DE LAGO (AUS) – LOVELY JUBLY (AUS) LION HUNTER (AUS) | TOMMY BERRY | 58.5 | MICHAEL & WAYNE & JOHN HAWKES | 11 |
| 2015 | CHAUTAUQUA (AUS) 4G ENCOSTA DE LAGO (AUS) – LOVELY JUBLY (AUS) LION HUNTER (AUS) | TOMMY BERRY | 58.5 | MICHAEL & WAYNE & JOHN HAWKES | 8 |
| 2014 | LANKAN RUPEE (AUS) 4G REDOUTE’S CHOICE (AUS) – ESTELLE COLLECTION (NZ) STRAVINSKY (USA) | C NEWITT | 58.5 | MICK PRICE | 1 |
| 2013 | BLACK CAVIAR (AUS) 6M BEL ESPRIT (AUS) – HELSINGE (AUS) DESERT SUN (GB) | L NOLEN | 56.5 | PETER G MOODY | 1 |
| 2012 | MASTER OF DESIGN (AUS) 6H REDOUTE’S CHOICE (AUS) – URGE TO MERGE (AUS) LAST TYCOON (IRE) | CRAIG WILLIAMS | 58.5 | DAVID PAYNE | 4 |
| 2011 | BLACK CAVIAR (AUS) 4M BEL ESPRIT (AUS) – HELSINGE (AUS) DESERT SUN (GB) | L NOLEN | 56.5 | PETER G MOODY | 5 |
| 2010 | MELITO (AUS) 3F REDOUTE’S CHOICE (AUS) – CLOISTER (AUS) MARAUDING (NZ) | B SHINN | 54.5 | GERALD RYAN | 7 |
| 2009 | TAKEOVER TARGET (AUS) 9G CELTIC SWING (GB) – SHADY STREAM (AUS) ARCHREGENT (CAN) | N RAWILLER | 58.5 | J A JANIAK | 6 |
| 2008 | APACHE CAT (AUS) 5G LION CAVERN (USA) – TENNESSEE BLAZE (AUS) WHISKEY ROAD (USA) | C W BROWN | 58.5 | GREG EURELL | 5 |
| 2007 | BENTLEY BISCUIT (AUS) 5G PEINTRE CELEBRE (USA) – TYCOON JOY (AUS) LAST TYCOON (IRE) | N RAWILLER | 58.5 | MS G WATERHOUSE | 7 |
| 2006 | RED OOG (AUS) 6G BRIEF TRUCE (USA) – MARY JULIA (AUS) ZOFFANY (USA) | HUGH BOWMAN | 57.5 | JOSEPH PRIDE | 4 |
| 2005 | SHAMEKHA (AUS) 4M SECRET SAVINGS (USA) – LIFETIME STORY (AUS) DON’T SAY HALO (USA) | D BEADMAN | 55.0 | MS G WATERHOUSE | 2 |
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