Te Akau Spotlight On The Karaka Millions Card - TAB Karaka Millions 2YO

With the barrier draw completed, all eyes now turn to what is Te Akau’s most successful race of all time - the $1 Million TAB Karaka Millions 2YO at Ellerslie.

Few races define our story quite like this one. Over the past decade, Te Akau has built an extraordinary legacy in the Karaka Millions 2YO, claiming eight wins in the last nine editions - and as we line up again, we do so chasing a remarkable ninth victory in ten years.

Those wins have been delivered by an exceptional group of young stars. Four brilliant fillies - Melody Belle, Avantage, Probabeel, and of course our 2025 winner La Dorada, who is set to defend her crown in the TAB Karaka Millions 3YO - alongside four outstanding colts and geldings - Cool Aza Beel, On The Bubbles, Dynastic and Tokyo Tycoon - have etched Te Akau’s name deep into Karaka Millions history.

What makes this race so special is the connection between Karaka and raceday - the sale to the saddle. Year after year, success on this stage has stemmed from astute purchases made just twelve months earlier. Te Akau principal David Ellis CNZM has purchased eight of the past nine winners of the $1 Million Karaka Millions 2YO - a record that speaks for itself on the eve of the New Zealand Bloodstock Yearling Sales.

And now… HERE WE GO AGAIN

This year, Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson saddle three exciting contenders:

- KINNAIRD (Home Affairs (AUS) - Orinda) - unbeaten confidence, proven class and first in the order of entry after two impressive victories this season. Drawn barrier two and right in the thick of calculations. Ridden by Opie Bosson | Purchased from Highview Stud - $340,000

- OUT OF THE BLUE (Tivaci (AUS) - Cornflower Blue) - a fan favourite with a huge following, unbeaten in his first two starts and unlucky last time out. A horse that’s already delivered unforgettable moments for his Tangerine Army owners, and one who thrives when the lights are brightest. Ridden by Craig Williams, who won this race on La Dorada last year | Purchased from Waikato Stud - $60,000 


- ZAHARIAS (Super Seth (AUS) - Green Roller (AUS)) - consistent, tough and improving with every run, having placed in all three starts to date. Drawn wide but ready to take her place on racing’s biggest juvenile stage. Ridden by Rory Hutchings | Purchased from Inglewood Stud - $60,000

With last year’s Millions double still living rent free in our heads, and with George Simon’s words ringing loud - “Let’s bring it on in the Karaka Millions”