Wigmore’s victory in the South Australian Derby on May 2, 2026, represents a significant achievement for trainer Phillip Stokes, who has long excelled with New Zealand horses.
At just his second start in Australia, Wigmore clinched the Group One title, following a seventh-place finish in the Gr.3 Chairman’s Stakes at Morphettville. This stunning turnaround showcases Stokes’ ability to train and develop talent from across the Tasman.
Identified by bloodstock agent Phill Cataldo for OTI Racing, Wigmore is a son of Sweynesse and out of Del Mondo, a More Than Ready mare. His lineage includes a half-brother, Mondorani, who won the Gr.3 New Zealand Cup.
Stokes reflected on the journey, recalling how owner Terry Henderson approached him: “Terry Henderson rang me up and said, ‘can you get rid of 25 per cent of this horse?’.” It was a pivotal moment that led to this remarkable victory.
Wigmore had eight weeks between runs before the Chairman’s Stakes, during which Stokes ensured he was brought along slowly after arriving from New Zealand just three weeks post his New Zealand Derby run.
Stokes celebrated his ninth Group One win with this triumph. He mentioned that Wigmore could potentially be a contender for the Melbourne Cup: “We may have a Melbourne Cup horse on our hands.” His clean windedness and strong performance certainly support that claim.
Key facts about Wigmore:
- Wigmore won the Gr.1 South Australian Derby at his second Australian start.
- He previously trained under Caley Myers in New Zealand.
- The race distance was 2500 meters.
- His granddam is Arborea, a Gr.1 VRC Oaks winner.
The excitement surrounding Wigmore’s future is palpable among fans and owners alike. While no definitive plans have been set for his next race, discussions about participating in either the Queensland Derby or Melbourne Cup are underway.
