Gunna Reload gets ideal draw to defend Breeders Challenge crown

27 October 2026

PAUL COURTS 

A FAVOURABLE draw has strengthened reigning champion Gunna Reload's title defence at Club Menangle on Saturday night.

Successful in last season's Breeders' Challenge Final for three-year-old fillies, Gunna Reload issued a warning ahead of the Four-Year-Old Mares' Final with an emphatic semi-final victory a fortnight ago.

In what was her second run from a spell, the Peter Rixon-trained star worked to the lead from barrier five on her way to a three-metre win in 1:53.1 over a mile .

Thrilled with her progress, Rixon declared Gunna Reload had benefited from the outing and will "definitely be fitter".

"She pulled up great from her run and everything is spot on," Rixon said. "She worked really well this morning and I couldn't be happier with her.

"That was only her second run this time in, so there was always going to be a bit more there and she is definitely be fitter after another couple of weeks work."

To be driven by Rixon's son Will, Gunna Reload has once again drawn to find the lead - this time from barrier two.

"It's a really good draw and one we plan to take full advantage of," Rixon said. "Even though she has drawn wide in 11, Sugar Pie Honey is still the danger.

"She has proven before she can do a bit of work, so she can't be taken lightly."

In a phenomenal breeding and training effort, Gunna Reload's siblings Gunnareason and Highindelight have also qualified for the Finals within their crop.

Gunnareason will begin from the pole in the two-year-old division, while Highindelight will come from barrier eight in the three-year-old decider.

Bred by the same group of friends and trained by Rixon, the trio of fillies are from broodmare gem Mile High Anvil, which boasts a perfect record from five foals.

"I'm happy with Gunnareason and Highindelight and believe that can upset a few with the right run," Rixon said.