The Phantom Chance
A Kiwi Racing Legend
In the annals of thoroughbred racing, few horses have captured the imagination and admiration of fans quite like The Phantom Chance. Born on 3 November 1989, this chestnut gelding would go on to become one of the most celebrated racehorses of his era, leaving an indelible mark on both sides of the Tasman.
Early Years and Breeding
The Phantom Chance was bred by the renowned Dennis brothers – Tony, Joe, Martin, and Ray – who have long been associated with producing top-quality thoroughbreds. Sired by Noble Bijou out of The Fantasy, he was part of one of the country’s most successful breeding families, known for horses whose names often begin with “The”.
This family has produced numerous champions, including The Phantom Chance’s full brother, The Phantom, who was also a Group One winner. The bloodline’s success is further evidenced by the achievements of relatives such as The Jewel and, more recently, The Chosen One.
Racing Career
Under the expert guidance of trainer Colin Jillings, The Phantom Chance’s racing career got off to a relatively slow start. He didn’t race as a two-year-old, and his first two starts as a three-year-old resulted in third-place finishes. However, what followed was nothing short of extraordinary.
The gelding went on a remarkable winning streak, claiming victory in eight consecutive races. Six of these wins were at stakes level, showcasing his exceptional talent and versatility. The pinnacle of this run came with his triumph in the New Zealand Derby, a victory that held special significance for his trainer.
Colin Jillings’ success with The Phantom Chance in the Derby marked his fifth win in the prestigious race, a record that remains unmatched by any other trainer to this day. This achievement underscores not only the horse’s ability but also the skill and experience of his connections.
Trans-Tasman Success
As a four-year-old, The Phantom Chance continued to excel, extending his dominance beyond our shores. His Australian campaign began with a narrow victory in the Turnbull Stakes at Flemington, setting the stage for even greater achievements.
The crowning glory of his career came in 1993 when he claimed victory in the W.S. Cox Plate at Moonee Valley. This win was particularly significant as it made him the second New Zealand Derby winner in three years to claim Australia’s weight-for-age championship, following in the footsteps of Surfers Paradise.
In the Cox Plate, The Phantom Chance demonstrated his class by beating fellow Kiwi horse Solvit by a length and a half. This victory not only showcased his individual talent but also highlighted the strength of our thoroughbred industry on the international stage.
International Endeavours
The Phantom Chance’s connections were not content with success in Australasia alone. On 28 November 1993, with Robert Vance in the saddle, the gelding took on some of the world’s best in the Japan Cup. While he finished 12th in a field of 16, the experience of competing on such a prestigious international stage was invaluable.
Later Career and Legacy
As is often the case with racehorses, The Phantom Chance’s form began to wane as he aged. He continued racing until he was eight years old, occasionally showing flashes of his former brilliance with stakes-level successes both at home and in Australia. However, he was never quite able to recapture the dominant form of his three and four-year-old seasons.
Despite this, The Phantom Chance’s career statistics remain impressive. Over the course of 44 starts, he amassed 11 wins, 3 seconds, and 4 thirds, earning a total of $2,189,706 in prize money. His major victories in the New Zealand Derby, Cox Plate, and Turnbull Stakes ensure his place among the greats of our racing history.
The Phantom Chance’s Impact on Breeding
While The Phantom Chance himself was a gelding and thus unable to contribute directly to the breeding industry, his success has had a lasting impact on the valuation and reputation of his bloodline. The continued success of relatives like The Chosen One, who won the 2022 Thorndon Mile, demonstrates the enduring quality of this family.
The achievements of The Phantom Chance and his relatives have cemented the Dennis brothers’ reputation as breeders of exceptional thoroughbreds. Their focus on this particular family line, with its distinctive naming convention, has created a recognisable brand within the industry.
The Phantom Chance’s story is one of determination, class, and the pursuit of excellence. From his slow start to his dominant streak and international success, he embodied the fighting spirit that we so admire in our equine athletes. His achievements not only brought glory to his connections but also showcased the quality of our breeding industry on the world stage.
As we reflect on The Phantom Chance’s career, we are reminded of the rich history and tradition of thoroughbred racing in our country. His legacy continues to inspire breeders, trainers, and racing enthusiasts, serving as a benchmark for the champions of tomorrow. The Phantom Chance may no longer grace our racetracks, but his phantom-like presence continues to loom large in the annals of racing history.