Cox Plate contender Antino has confirmed his ranking as Queensland’s premier thoroughbred, claiming a second consecutive Horse of the Year title.
The Tony Gollan-trained gelding produced a blistering spring campaign in Melbourne during the 2024/25 season, breaking through for his maiden Group 1 victory in the Toorak Handicap, alongside placings in the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes and Champions Mile.
The seven-year-old also finished third in the Group 2 Feehan Stakes at Moonee Valley, before returning north to claim the Group 2 Hollindale Stakes on the Gold Coast and a dominant Group 1 Doomben Cup victory as part of the 2025 Queensland racing carnival.
“Queensland racing continues to go from strength to strength, which was undoubtedly reflected in one of the strongest fields we have ever seen for the Horse of the Year Award,” acting Racing Queensland chief executive Lachlan Murray said.
“Antino claiming the top honour for the second straight year is thoroughly deserved following a remarkable showing in the Melbourne spring, before going to another level here at home.”
In other awards, Queensland’s first-ever Melbourne Cup champion Knight’s Choice was rightfully honoured with the Darby McCarthy Performance of the Year gong, whilst Yellow Brick was named the QTIS Horse of the Year.