Eagle Farm comes alive this Saturday, June 14, as Queensland’s biggest day of winter racing hits top gear. With three feature events – the JJ Atkins, the Magic Millions Dane Ripper Stakes, and the crown jewel Stradbroke Handicap – this is a card no punter will want to miss. With Group 1 talent, a healthy $4.3 million in combined prize money, and dry skies forecast, we’re set for a cracking afternoon of racing.
🏆 Race 6 – Ladbrokes JJ Atkins (Group 1, 1600m)
- Time: 2:03 PM AEST
- Conditions: Set Weights – 2YOs
- Distance: 1600m
- Prize Money: $1,000,000
The JJ Atkins is the premier 2-year-old mile race in Queensland and always provides a look into the future stars of Australian racing. This year’s edition is shaping up to be one of the most even in recent memory.
Key Runners to keep an eye on 👁️:
Cool Archie ~ $3.40 🧊🏇
Undefeated in his second prep and comes off a dominant win in the Group 2 BRC Sires’ Produce. Trained by Chris and Corey Munce, he looks a live chance to go back-to-back at Eagle Farm.
Hidden Achievement ~ $5.75 🎯📈
One of the most professional youngsters in the field. Chris Waller trains, J-Mac rides – you know the drill. Strong place credentials with upside.
Farnicle ~ $11 🧬🐎
From the Waterhouse/Bott yard, this colt looks bred for the mile. Could get a soft run from a good draw with Tim Clark in the saddle.
This is a wide-open affair, but Cool Archie and Hidden Achievement look to have the class and manners needed to conquer the mile.
💫 Race 7 – Magic Millions Dane Ripper Stakes (Group 2, 1300m)
- Time: 2:38 PM AEST
- Conditions: Set Weights + Penalties – Fillies and Mares
- Distance: 1300m
- Prize Money: $300,000
The Dane Ripper serves as a key lead-in to the Tattersall’s Tiara and always draws a field of quality mares looking to peak third-up. Expect fireworks in the final 300 metres.
Key Runners:
Firestorm ~ $4.40 🔥⚡
From the powerful Waller camp. May need luck but has the engine to motor home if things fall her way.
Abounding ~ $10 🌊🔄
Rob Heathcote’s stable star returns to her pet trip. If she finds cover early, she’ll be flashing late.
Arctic Glamour ~ $18 ❄️✨
Classy and still untapped, she brings strong Sydney form and will love Eagle Farm’s long straight.
City Of Lights ~ $6.50 🌆🚀
Joseph Pride has this mare flying. She’s been sneaky good in recent runs and could be the one coming over the top late.
Punters can expect a blanket finish here with value on offer across the board.
🌟 Race 8 – The Star Stradbroke Handicap (Group 1, 1400m)
- Time: 3:13 PM AEST
- Conditions: Handicap
- Distance: 1400m
- Prize Money: $3,000,000
The big one. The Stradbroke is Queensland’s signature sprint and the most prestigious race of the Brisbane Winter Carnival. It’s a true test of class, toughness, and tactical nous over 1400m. This year’s edition is stacked with talent.
Top Contenders:
War Machine ~ $3.20 🛡️💥
The early favourite and for good reason. He’s flying this prep and his on-pace style suits the Eagle Farm layout.
Rise At Dawn ~ $12 🌅📈
Been building beautifully into this and could be peaking right on grand final day. Drawn to stalk the speed.
Kimochi ~ $14 🧗♀️💖
A real battler with guts. She’s been racing at the top level all season and gets in light.
Transatlantic ~ $19 🌊✈️
Will appreciate a hot tempo and could be storming down the outside late.
There’s no shortage of storylines in this year’s Stradbroke, and with big odds on offer across the board, punters are in for a wild ride.
🎯 Final Say
With Group 1s, future stars, and top mares all on display, Stradbroke Day 2025 is must-watch racing. Whether you’re hunting a longshot or backing a favourite, the value is there if you can find it. These three races will shape the carnival narrative and could unearth the next big thing.
