Jack Lee-Steere has secured promising Western Australian galloper West Star as his representative for the upcoming $5 million Kia Quokka (1200m) at Ascot Racecourse on April 26. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Initially, Lee-Steere’s focus was on securing an eastern states sprinter following the T.J. Smith Stakes in Sydney. However, negotiations with potential contenders like Headwall and Jimmysstar fell through. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

His attention then turned to local talent, leading him to West Star’s impressive performance at Ascot. The three-year-old, trained by Simon Miller, boasts a consistent record, including a black-type win in the Belgravia Stakes (1200m) last year and a strong first-up run this campaign. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

“I reached out to Simon (Miller) to see if there was any interest, and he consulted the owners,” Lee-Steere said. “I’m very happy and glad that they’re confident. He’s a bit of an unknown with a bit of x-factor.” :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Both Lee-Steere and Miller are hopeful that this third attempt at the Quokka will be successful, following previous participations with Bustler and Oscar’s Fortune for Lee-Steere, and two runner-up finishes with Amelia’s Jewel for Miller. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

“He’s (Miller) been there before, so knows what’s required,” Lee-Steere said. “Maybe third time lucky.” :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

West Star is currently listed at $11 in the betting markets, while the Sydney sprinter Overpass holds favor at $2.50, having an unblemished record in Western Australia, including wins in the Quokka and Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m). :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Despite previous unsuccessful attempts, Lee-Steere remains a strong advocate for the Quokka, highlighting its rapid rise as a centerpiece of Perth’s autumn carnival. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

“The race day, I’ve never seen anything like it,” Lee-Steere said. “It’s so thrilling to see because it’s exactly what I wanted the Quokka to do. Everyone has got around it so quickly, it’s awesome.” :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}