Tommy’s Time
Nick Quinn • March 19th, 2025 2:30 PM • 4 min read
When jockey Thomas Stockdale hugged his wife after a winning a race at Flemington, he did not realize it would be the catalyst for securing a ride in the world’s richest two-year-old race, the $5 Million Golden Slipper at Rosehill on Saturday.
Stockdale steered the Ciaron Maher trained Military Tycoon to victory in the Gr.3 Darley Ottawa Stakes at Flemington on March 8.
Military Tycoon, who is raced by Bennett Racing, will contest Saturday’s Golden Slipper with Stockdale retaining the ride.
“I am so grateful for this opportunity, without the backing of Ciaron Maher and the stable, Bennett Racing, my manager Brady McArdle, mentor James Winks and my beautiful wife I would not be in this very fortunate position.” Stockdale said.
Stockdale is confident that Military Tycoon can step up on Saturday.
“I could not be happier with her going into the race.”
“Before her win at Flemington I went into the race supremely confident on the back of her trials, and she looks primed for the 1200 meters on Saturday in the Golden Slipper.”
The 25 year-old has ridden 408 winners and has recently dipped his toe in the Group 1 races finishing fifth aboard Semana ($41) in the C.F. Orr Stakes won by Another Wil and sixth aboard Stay Focused ($31) in the Australian Guineas won by Feroce.
“I was happy with how I went but the most important thing I realized when I got home that it is that is just another race, and I am hoping that experience will hold me in good stead for Saturday.” Stockdale said.
Stockdale recently married Lily-Ann, the sister of Beau Mertens and daughter to the late Peter Mertens.
“She is such a great supporter of mine, I cannot imagine it is much fun when I am fasting or sweating or needing to stay home, but she is always by my side and a rock of support.”
When asked about Stockdale’s success, mentor James Winks, a jockey who achieved success across the world and now runs J.M.W Management, was quick to point to the jockey’s hard work and great attitude.
“He can thank others, which shows the kind of person he is, but he is where he is because of a great work ethic and attitude.” Winks said.
“He is a pleasure to deal with and he wants to be helped, he also puts in great preparation.”
“He ticks every box off the track and is now just such a consistent rider who doesn’t make mistakes.” Winks said.
Nathan Bennett, from Bennett Racing stayed loyal to Stockdale for the Golden Slipper.
“You can’t make it to the top if you are not given a chance on the big stage, he is hard working, a great horseman, a top jockey and we are happy to back him in.” Bennett said.
Bennett was upbeat about Military Tycoon heading into the Slipper.
“She has travelled well, put on weight and worked well.” Bennett said.
“She was educated the Sydney way of going so she will handle that, and she should be there when the whips are cracking, it is just a huge thrill for all the ownership and the team at Bennett racing.”
Picture at the Top of the Page: Military Tycoon. Photo: Supplied
