Jedibeel selected for BYD Quokka
Perth Racing and Trackside NZ have officially secured their contender for the 2026 BYD Quokka (12000m), the A$5 million sprint at Ascot Racecourse on 18 April.
Jedibeel (NZ) (Savabeel) will represent the Perth Racing/Trackside NZ slot, bringing Group One form across the Nullarbor.
The talented galloper caught the eye when storming home late to finish runner-up in last Saturday’s Gr.1 Galaxy (1100m) at Rosehill last Saturday following on from a strong fourth-placed effort in the Gr.1 Oakleigh Plate |(1100m).
Bred by Waikato Stud, New Zealand-bred Jedibeel is by champion sire Savabeel, reinforcing a strong trans-Tasman narrative for Trackside NZ’s campaign.
Trained by Brad Widdup at Hawkesbury, the gelding will be ridden by in-form jockey Tyler Schiller, adding further Eastern State firepower to the already high-class field assembling for The BYD Quokka.
Andrew Hannan, representing Trackside NZ, said the decision to target The Quokka with Jedibeel reflects the growing stature of Western Australia’s premier raceday.
“Jedibeel has shown he belongs at the elite level, and his recent Group One performances prove he’s ready to compete on a stage like The BYD Quokka.
“As a New Zealand-bred by Savabeel, he’s a horse we’re incredibly proud to bring across, and we’re excited to be part of such a dynamic and rapidly growing race.”
Perth Racing Chief Executive Officer James Oldring said the addition of Jedibeel further strengthens the race’s national appeal.
“The Western Australian racing public is looking forward to welcoming Trackside NZ and Jedibeel to Ascot. His career earnings of A$1.9m and his recent Group One form make him a compelling contender, and his New Zealand pedigree adds another exciting dimension to this year’s race, which is once again shaping up to be one of the best races in Australia.”
The New Zealand and interstate contenders arrive on a charter flight to Perth airport on 10 April.
