Tasmanian jockey Craig Newitt is gearing up for what could be an extraordinary milestone as he aims for his tenth victory in the Devonport Cup, scheduled for January 7, 2026. Newitt, a prominent figure in the Tasmanian racing scene, expressed his enthusiasm for returning home, stating that he has always been grounded in his roots. “I have always been taught never to forget where you come from. I love coming back to Tassie,” he remarked, indicating that he will spend more time in Tasmania over the coming months.
Having clinched back-to-back Devonport Cups in 2022 and 2023 aboard the Glenn Stevenson-trained Ashy Boy, Newitt’s first triumph in this prestigious event dates back to 2002. The Devonport Cup holds a special place in his heart, and he meticulously plans for it each year. “It is basically the one race of the year when I start looking for a horse months in advance,” he noted, revealing that he already has potential contenders lined up for this year.
As his career progresses, Newitt is poised to surpass 2,500 career wins and boasts 33 Group 1 victories, solidifying his status as one of the leading jockeys. The Devonport Cup is a highlight of the Ladbrokes Summer Racing Festival, an event renowned not only for its racing but also for being a major social occasion on Tasmania’s north-west coast.
The festival kicked off on November 21 in Launceston, with the Barry Campbell-trained Durazzo winning the $150,000 Listed Tasmanian Newmarket Handicap. The festivities will culminate in Hobart on February 28, where the Group 1 Ladbrokes Tasmania Cup will take place for the harness racing code. Throughout the festival, several key events will occur, including the Hobart and Launceston Cups for thoroughbreds, worth $250,000 each, as well as various greyhound races and harness events.
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Tasracing’s chief executive officer, Andrew Jenkins, emphasized the importance of showcasing Tasmania’s racing industry on a national level. “We are positioning ourselves as a statewide industry to the national market,” he said, noting that both urban and country race days, such as those in Longford, St Marys, Scottsdale, and Burnie, will contribute to the festival’s vibrancy. Last year, more than 10,000 attendees flocked to these country races, underscoring their significance.
Entain Australia CEO Andrew Vouris highlighted his company’s commitment to Tasmanian racing. “Our investment in Tasmanian racing is not just about putting our name on a race. It is about helping build a product that engages punters, supports participants, and showcases the very best of Tasmanian racing,” he stated, expressing excitement for the upcoming festival.
Additionally, the festival will feature a harness yearling sale on February 14 and the Magic Millions yearling sale on February 23, both set to take place at Quercus Park in Carrick. As part of its community engagement, around $80,000 will be allocated to local sporting and community clubs through the Ladbrokes Community Sports Series. Over 150 clubs have already shown interest in participating, with a draw planned to select clubs for horse racing representatives during the three main thoroughbred cup days.
As Newitt prepares for another shot at the Devonport Cup, the anticipation surrounding this year’s racing festival is palpable, promising excitement and engagement for both participants and fans alike.
