Imagine a jockey traveling across borders to deliver not just one, but two flawless performances that seal a historic victory for a legendary training duo. That’s exactly what happened when Australian-based jockey Daniel Stackhouse took Trentham by storm on Saturday, turning the day into an unforgettable celebration for trainers Michael and Matthew Pitman. But here’s where it gets even more remarkable: this wasn’t just any win—it was the father-and-son team’s 600th victory together, capped off with a Group 3 triumph at their cherished track.
Stackhouse played a pivotal role in the Riccarton stable’s milestone day, expertly guiding both Enterprise Gem and Rosso to victory. The Pitmans couldn’t have scripted a better start, as Enterprise Gem clinched the Happy Hire 2100, marking the partnership’s landmark achievement.
“We thought we’d hit 600 wins at the Coast, but honestly, there’s no better place than here,” Michael Pitman shared, his voice brimming with emotion. “Trentham is my favorite track—I just love coming here. And this win? It’s extra special because Diane [my wife] and Matthew race this horse. My dear friend Graeme Rogerson sent him our way, and we lease him from Rogie, so it’s truly meaningful.”
And this is the part most people miss: Stackhouse’s day wasn’t done yet. Just two races later, he returned aboard Rosso to claim the G3 Totara Lodge Trentham Stakes (2100m). The Irish-bred son of Camelot had been turning heads in recent starts, and punters had him pegged as the $3.50 favorite. From midfield, Stackhouse expertly tracked He’s A Doozy, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. As they approached the 400m mark, he angled Rosso into open space, and the gelding unleashed a stylish surge down the center of the track. Holding off Royal Flower by half a length, Rosso cemented his rise as a top-tier stayer.
“He’s a stunning stayer,” Stackhouse remarked. “The Pitman team has done an incredible job getting him race-ready. He broke well, and the race unfolded perfectly for him. We made a mid-race move to close the gap, but he was in his rhythm the entire time. His momentum is just beautiful, and we used that to our advantage, letting the horse ahead guide us into the race. When I asked him to stretch late, he delivered without hesitation.”
Here’s where it gets controversial: Rosso’s win has catapulted him into $3.20 favoritism for the G3 NZ Campus Of Innovation & Sport Wellington Cup (3200m) at Trentham in two weeks. But will the step up to two miles be too much? Stackhouse doesn’t think so. “It took me a while to pull him up, so I’m confident the distance won’t bother him at all,” he said. “He switched off beautifully. He’s checked every box for that race, but I’ll need to discuss the weight with Michael and the team before confirming my return.”
Michael Pitman couldn’t hide his excitement about securing a G3 win with his in-form stayer, and he’s already eyeing a return to Trentham—with Stackhouse once again a key part of the plan.
But here’s the question that’s sure to spark debate: Can Rosso truly dominate at two miles, or will the longer distance expose a weakness? And what about Stackhouse’s role—is he the secret weapon the Pitman team needs to keep their winning streak alive? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this thrilling racing story!
