Caballus Charges to Group 1 Glory in the Newmarket Handicap
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Darby Racing 8.3.2026
Darby Racing’s brilliant sprinter Caballus etched his name into Australian racing history on Saturday with a stunning victory in the Group 1 $2 million Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington. The five-year-old delivered a powerhouse performance down the famous “Straight Six,” giving trainer Bjorn Baker and jockey Craig Newitt a memorable triumph on one of the biggest days of the Melbourne racing calendar.
Ridden perfectly by Newitt, Caballus jumped sharply from barrier one and was taken straight to the inside rail, where he controlled the race from the front. Showing his trademark speed and determination, the talented son of I Am Invincible held off a fast-finishing field to win the prestigious sprint, with Gallant Son second and Angel Capital third.
The victory was particularly significant for Newitt, who secured a record fourth Newmarket Handicap, further cementing his reputation as one of Australia’s premier straight-track riders.
For trainer Bjorn Baker, the win was a testament to the patience and development of Caballus, who has continued to improve with each preparation. The stable’s careful management and belief in the horse’s ability have now been rewarded with elite-level success on one of the sport’s grandest stages.
Darby Racing congratulates Bjorn Baker and his entire team, whose dedication and professionalism behind the scenes helped deliver this remarkable Group 1 victory. Their hard work and commitment are a vital part of every success story.
A special congratulations also goes to all of Caballus’ owners, whose support and belief have been rewarded with one of Australian racing’s most coveted sprint prizes.
With a Group 1 now on the board, the future looks incredibly exciting for Caballus. The star sprinter is already locked in for the 2026 running of the $5 million Quokka in Perth, where he will represent the RAM Racing slot. The partnership carries a formidable record in the race, having previously combined to win two editions of the Quokka with champion sprinter Overpass.
Following his Newmarket triumph, Caballus now heads toward the remainder of the autumn with enormous momentum, and his latest victory confirms what connections have long believed — that he belongs among the very best sprinters in the country.
From Flemington to Perth, the Caballus story is only just beginning
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