Nature Strip has been named the 2020 Australian Racehorse of the Year.
The Chris Waller-trained gelding won three-times at Group 1 level in season 2019/20, kicking off with victories in the Moir Stakes and Darley Sprint Classic in Melbourne’s Spring Carnival, before a vintage performance in the TJ Smith Stakes at Randwick in April.
His season comprised seven starts for four wins and nearly $4 million in prize money.
The six-year-old son of Nicconi was also named 2020 Champion Sprinter of the Year.
Nature Strip’s win makes it a fifth year running for trainer Chris Waller following on from the four successive titles for Winx.
“It is amazing to get a horse like this, he has gone from a horse that has been a genuine Group 2 winner, and then in one season has won multiple Group 1 races including the biggest sprint races on the racing calendar,” Waller said.
“It is a privilege to be part of his career and respect should also be given to my team for the work they have done with Nature Strip behind the scenes making sure that he is well prepared and continues to peak throughout each preparation resulting in some really big wins.
“Obviously those who voted for him to be Australia’s Horse of The Year share our sentiments towards the horse and we are looking forward to the spring unfolding with some more exciting wins.”
Other winners:
Champion 2yo: FARNAN
Champion 3yo Male: YES YES YES
Champion 3yo Filly: LOVING GABY
Champion Middle-distance: FIERCE IMPACT & REGAL POWER
Champion Stayer: VOW AND DECLARE
Champion Sire: SNITZEL
Champion Jumper: TALLYHOE TWINKLETOE