Brad Widdup Racing News January 18 2026

A “CHOICE” VICTORY AT GOSFORD INSTEAD

SUNDAY: January 18, 2026: GOSFORD’S Saturday provincial meeting wasn’t the initial “choice” for Hawkesbury’s leading trainer Brad Widdup.

He had hoped to have a crack at richer pickings at yesterday’s Magic Millions meeting at the Gold Coast with three fillies by Golden Slipper winner Farnan he trains for Mulberry Racing.

Instead, when they didn’t make the “cut” for the $250,000 Maiden Plate (1100m) after 37 horses were nominated, Brad had to settle for a breakthrough victory with one of the filles, You’re The Choice, at Gosford.

Ridden by apprentice Mitch Stapleford, You’re The Choice ($2.70 favorite) didn’t give her rivals a look-in, bouncing to the front and leading throughout.

Such was her dominance in the 2 & 3YO Maiden Plate (1200m) that she had almost three and a half lengths to spare at the finish from Gosford trainer Greg McFarlane’s Go Glenn ($3.80) and Newcastle trainer Kris Lees’ debutante Stern Dispute ($3.10).

You’re The Choice, a $260,000 purchase at last year’s Magic Millions yearling sale at the Gold Coast, was beginning a new campaign, having not raced since finishing fourth at Wyong in late August.

She trialled twice – and was placed on both occasions – leading into yesterday’s resumption.

“You’re The Choice has always shown some ability, and it was good to see her not only break through yesterday, but win in the manner she did,” Brad said today, en route home from the MM sales, where he added three yearlings to his team.

He had also hoped to score with another of the Farnan fillies Avon Calling at Gosford yesterday, but heavy rain ensured the meeting only lasted two races before RacingNSW stewards had no alternative but to call a halt to further proceedings.

You’re The Choice was Brad’s 449th career winner, and 31st this season.

Meanwhile, stablemates Nashville Jack and Savvy Hallie, who both ran so well when second and fourth in the $3m Sunlight Plate (1100m) at the Gold Coast a week ago, are likely headed for another interstate mission – this time in the other direction.

The pair has returned home, and Brad is eyeing the Inglis Sprint (1100m) for three-year-olds at Flemington on February 28.

“It’s a shame they both have to clash again, but they are owned by different interests and the race is worth $1m, so it merits a lot of consideration,” he said.

“I could trial them before sending them to Melbourne.”

Nashville Jack (also by Farnan) was a $71 chance when runner-up to favorite Grafterburners in the Sunlight, and Savvy Hallie (by Hellbent) was a Group 2 winner last spring and also ran well to finish fourth at the Gold Coast.