Ark Sea’s Group One triumph sparks Kiwi plans

2 November 2026

PAUL COURTS 

A TRIP across the Tasman is on the cards for star filly Ark Sea.

Speaking after Ark Sea's success in Saturday night's New South Wales Breeders' Challenge Final at Club Menangle, trainer Sam Hewitt revealed he is contemplating a New Zealand campaign with the three-year-old.

While the $1.5million The Eureka at Australia's premier venue on November 21 remains connection's preference, the New Zealand Oaks the night before is in the mix.

A spot in The Eureka relies on Ark Sea being issued an invitation from a slot holder.

"There has been some talk about a potential slot for her, but nothing official," Hewitt said. "It would be unreal to see her in such a race.

"The New Zealand Oaks is on the day before, so that is something I am also thinking about.

"If she pulls up well and comes through the next couple of weeks fine, I wouldn't mind going over to New Zealand and testing her against their best."

As for her latest triumph, Ark Sea worked to the lead from barrier six before cruising to a four-and-a-half metre win from Queensland raider, Stripes, with One More Reason a half-neck away third.

With Will Rixon holding the reins, the daughter of Stay Hungry covered the mile in 1:50.3 to provide Hewitt with his initial Group One victory.

"It feels super to win a Group One, especially with this filly," Hewitt said. "She really deserves it.

"She probably should've won one in Queensland but things didn't go her way, but she's got it now.

"The whole family was here watching, the kids made up their signs to cheer her on, my oldest boy was crying cause it means so much to him and I wasn't far off it myself.

"It's the best feeling I've had in the sport."