The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to Australia's elite thoroughbred racing season, with the final field for the $1.5 million Northerly Stakes (1800m) now confirmed. Western Australia's rising star, King Of Light, has been installed as the warm favourite to cap off 2025 with a Group 1 victory at Ascot, but he will face a serious challenge from a quartet of raiders from the eastern states.
Three-Year-Olds Aim to Continue Dominant Streak
Fresh off a stunning victory in the WA Guineas just ten days ago, King Of Light has guaranteed his spot in the feature race and is firming at $2.50 in early markets. The three-year-old colt carries the hopes of local racing fans and aims to uphold the impressive record of his age group in the Northerly Stakes.
Thanks to a favourable weight scale that sees three-year-old colts and geldings carry only 52kg, the race has become a perfect target for top youngsters. This advantage has seen three-year-olds claim four of the last ten editions of the race. Interestingly, it has been the fillies who have shone brightest, with Perfect Reflection (2015), Arcadia Queen (2018), Kay Cee (2019), and Amelia’s Jewel (2022) all saluting for the "fairer sex."
This year, trainer Dan Morton will saddle up two three-year-old hopefuls as he chases his first Northerly Stakes win. Alongside the Guineas-winning King Of Light, Morton will also start Pure Excess ($15), who secured her place by winning the Champion Fillies Stakes, mirroring the path of 2015 winner Perfect Reflection.
Eastern States Challenge Led by In-Form Apulia
The interstate challenge is formidable and headed by the exciting Apulia ($11). Trained by Ben, Will and JD Hayes, the entire has a perfect record from two starts this campaign, winning the Vobis Gold Star at Moonee Valley and the Chester Manifold Stakes at Flemington on Oaks Day. That latter race is a noted form reference, having been won by Light Infantry Man before his successful Perth campaign and Northerly triumph in 2024.
Melbourne hoop Michael Dee will fly west to take the ride on Apulia. Meanwhile, the favourite King Of Light will be partnered by the master of Ascot, William Pike, who recently guided the galloper in a Belmont trial.
The other key invaders include the fast-finishing Vivy Air ($9), winner of the Five Diamonds at Rosehill, who will be ridden by last year's Northerly-winning jockey Ethan Brown. The Annabel and Rob Archibald-trained Depth Of Character will have a change of rider, with Chris Parnham taking over from Reece Jones. The final raider, Osipenko ($21), will be piloted by Fred Kersley.
Local Hopefuls and Jockey Milestones
Beyond the headline acts, the race features significant milestones. Promising WA jockey Austin Galati has picked up the ride on Hemlock Stone, which will mark his first-ever Group 1 ride. The confirmation of the field also sets the scene for a fascinating tactical battle, with the weight advantage of the three-year-olds pitted against the seasoned form of the older interstate competitors.
In related news, the $1.5 million Gold Rush (1400m) at Ascot on December 13 has also attracted strong entries. Winterbottom Stakes placegetters Overpass ($6.50) and Rey Magnerio ($6) are confirmed, along with fourth-placed finisher Rope Them In ($4.40). A decision is still pending on market leader Jokers Grin, who was below his best when fifth in the Winterbottom, won by Libertad who has now been sent for a spell.
All eyes now turn to Ascot for what promises to be a spectacular and strategic conclusion to the Australian Group 1 racing calendar.
