Flemington Race Day, Champions Day: 8/11/2025 VRC Champions Sprint (1200 METRES) Giga Kick, trained by Clayton Douglas, ridden by Mark Zahra
Racing fans are gearing up for a thrilling Melbourne Autumn carnival as the prestigious $1 million VRC Black Caviar Lightning Stakes at Weight for Age (WFA) takes center stage. This race marks the first leg of the Southern Hemisphere’s “Triple Crown” for sprinters and has been the opening event of the Global Sprint Challenge since 2005. The event promises an exhilarating day at Flemington with a packed ten-race card and a select field of eight contenders vying for glory in this renowned G1 feature.
The field is headlined by the beloved “Giga Kick,” who aims to continue his dominance in the sprinting world following a spectacular G1 Champions Sprint victory last spring. However, concerns arise as Giga Kick resumes on firm Flemington ground, which may not favor him as much as the rain-affected tracks where he has previously excelled. Despite his impressive record, including a G2 Schillaci Stakes win, Giga Kick faces tough competition from younger rivals carrying weight advantages.
Rising Stars and Seasoned Contenders
Among Giga Kick’s competitors are the late-blooming G1 Moir Stakes winner Baraqiel, the formidable mare Benedetta, and an impressive lineup of three-year-olds, including Godolphin’s Tentyris and Golden Rose victor Beiwacht. Other notable contenders include Golden Slipper heroine Marhoona, the elegant grey My Gladiola, and the promising Military Tycoon. This diverse field promises a captivating race, rich with potential upsets and thrilling finishes.
A Storied Legacy
The Black Caviar Lightning Stakes has a rich history dating back to its inception by the VRC in 1955, with the first winner being Gay Vista. Over the years, many champions have left their mark on this race, with names like Sky High, Wenona Girl, and Mahogany achieving legendary status. Notably, only the iconic Black Caviar has won the race three times, earning the race its current name and holding the record time of 55.42 seconds.
Black Caviar wowed the racing world with a Lightning Stakes three-peat from 2011-2013, and naturally, the legendary mare holds the race record time – a scorching 55.42 seconds.
Great sires such as Todman, Century, and Fastnet Rock, along with remarkable mares like Miss Andretti and Imperatriz, have all claimed victory in this event. Recent years have seen younger champions like Coolangatta and Skybird rise to prominence, adding to the race’s storied legacy.
Spotlight on Baraqiel
Baraqiel, a standout in the field, has captivated racing enthusiasts with his remarkable journey to the top. Trained by Leon and Troy Corstens and Will Larkin, this talented sprinter overcame significant setbacks, including injuries and lengthy rehabilitation, to achieve G1 success in the Moir Stakes at the age of seven. His resilience and determination have made him a fan favorite, and his connections, led by Bennett Racing, have shown unwavering faith in his potential.
Baraqiel’s pedigree is rich with racing excellence, being a son of Snitzel and out of the well-traveled mare Angel Of Mercy. His dam’s lineage includes stakes winners and G1 performers, underscoring the depth of talent in his bloodline. As Baraqiel prepares for the Lightning Stakes, his ability to perform fresh and his affinity for the 1000m distance make him a formidable contender.
Emerging Talent: Tentyris and My Gladiola
Tentyris, representing Godolphin, has captured attention with his natural athleticism and impressive performances. Despite an injury setback that prevented him from competing in the Golden Slipper, Tentyris showcased his potential by winning the G1 Coolmore Stud Stakes. With a powerful pedigree and an exceptional turn of foot, he is poised to make a significant impact in the Lightning Stakes.
Meanwhile, My Gladiola, a striking grey filly trained by John McArdle, boasts a lineage of speed and success. Her recent trial victory over Giga Kick has raised expectations, and her pedigree, featuring champion sire I Am Invincible, adds to her allure. As she aims for her first open G1 win, My Gladiola is a contender to watch closely.
The Underdog: Marhoona
Marhoona, the Golden Slipper winner, seeks to defy the odds and return to G1 winning form. Trained by Michael Freedman, this lightly raced filly has already proven her mettle by winning the Slipper at just her third start. Her pedigree, featuring the mighty Snitzel and a carefully nurtured family line from Emirates Park, positions her as a potential upset in the Lightning Stakes.
Marhoona is bred Northern Dancer 5m,5m x 4m Mr Prospector x 5f,5m sex balanced Blue Hen Dancing Show 4f x 4f
As the 2026 G1 Black Caviar Lightning Stakes approaches, the anticipation builds for a race that promises drama, excitement, and the potential for new legends to emerge. Whether it’s the seasoned champions or the rising stars who claim victory, the Lightning Stakes continues to be a showcase of speed, skill, and the enduring spirit of thoroughbred racing.
