Undoubtedly one of the finest gallopers seen in New Zealand, Mainbrace was first past the post in 23 of his 25 starts during the 1950s. This magnificent racehorse, who was nicknamed The Chestnut Thunderbolt posted 17 consecutive wins which was a New Zealand record. He won the 1951 New Zealand Derby (then known as the Great Northern Derby) defeating The Unicorn and Barnsdale in a most memorable encounter. Other notable races he won included the Wellington Guineas, Wellington Stakes and Great Northern St Leger. His superb ability saw him win all types of races comprising sprint, staying, weight-for-age and handicap events in the same exciting fashion. Although he never raced in Australia, Mainbrace’s record made people compare him with the finest thoroughbreds seen in this part of the world and he was mentioned alongside such other New Zealand galloping greats as Phar Lap and Carbine. Mainbrace died in 1974.

Statistics

1947 chestnut gelding

Admiral’s Luck-Maneroo by Siegfried

Breeder: Dr Tom Fraser and Bob Nolan

Owners: Dr Tom Fraser and Bob Nolan

Trainer: Jack McDonald (New Zealand)

Race Record: 25 starts, 23 wins, 1 second, 1 third

Prize Money: NZ$28,785

Major Wins: Welcome Stakes, Great Northern Foal Stakes, King’s Plate, Avondale

Guineas, Great Northern Guineas, Wellington Guineas, Awapuni Gold Cup, NZ St

Leger, Trentham Stakes, Gloaming Stakes, Great Northern Challenge Stakes