Coal Crusher may not be the most naturally gifted horse in Joe Pride’s arsenal, but he is undoubtedly the most cherished.
The tough eight-year-old etched his name into Newcastle history on Saturday, becoming the first horse to win the $1 million The Hunter (1300m) twice, successfully defending his 2023 title with another gritty performance.
Although he hadn’t posted a victory since last year’s running, the gelding had remained consistently competitive, placing in multiple stakes events — including a brave third in the 2024 edition of The Hunter behind Briasa.
Coal Crusher’s victory meant even more to Pride’s son, Brave, who plays a key role in the stable and shares an unwavering connection with the gelding. The 19-year-old said Saturday’s success capped a remarkable spring that already featured Group 1 triumphs with Ceolwulf and Attica.
“He is like no other horse I’ve looked after. He is so special to me,” Brave Pride said.
“He’s by Turffonetin. He wasn’t meant to be any good but he’s just so tough.
“I’ve been part of some amazing wins this year with Attica and Ceolwulf and this is the best. I love this horse.”
The determined win was the 10th of Coal Crusher’s ($5.50) career, with stablemate Accredited ($11) charging late along the rail to complete a Pride-trained quinella. Local sprinter Brudenell ($41) finished a game third.
Race favourite Yorkshire endured a torrid run posted wide throughout and weakened late, trailing the field home.
Chad Schofield guided Coal Crusher to victory, continuing his strong partnership with Pride after the pair combined to win the Group 1 Champions Mile with Ceolwulf only a week earlier.
Schofield said he always felt comfortable once the gelding was able to roll forward and switch off.
“He broke well but he didn’t show as much gate speed as he usually does so I just had to urge him along to establish the lead,” Schofield said.
“Once I got there, I actually had it quite soft for the first six hundred metres.
“I was quite confident when I banked those cheap sectionals early because I knew he’d give me a really strong last six hundred and that’s the horse’s asset.
“He’s tough as nails. He is a lovely old horse, and he was spot-on today.”
Despite Coal Crusher turning nine next year, Pride sees no indication his veteran sprinter is slowing down and believes a third attempt at The Hunter is well within reach.
“This is his race . . . I’d love to think we could have him back for it again next year,” he said.
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