Ajax: a Miller’s Guide immortal
Ajax was one of Australia's greatest racehorses, dominating the turf in the late 1930s. Born in 1934, this magnificent chestnut colt was bred by Rodney Dangar at Baroona Stud in the Hunter Valley. Named after the Greek warrior, Ajax lived up to his heroic namesake on the racetrack.
On the track
Ajax burst onto the racing scene as a two-year-old in 1937, quickly establishing himself as a champion. His three-year-old season in 1937-38 was extraordinary, winning 18 consecutive races including the AJC Derby, VRC Derby, and numerous weight-for-age features. He dominated his rivals with a powerful stride and incredible stamina. His winning streak captured the public imagination during the Depression era, providing hope and excitement to thousands of fans.
Major wins
- VRC Derby (1937)
- AJC Derby (1937)
- Cox Plate (1938)
- Melbourne Stakes (1938)
- Sydney Stakes (1937)
- Chipping Norton Stakes (1938)
- All Aged Stakes (1938)
- 18 consecutive victories (1937-38)
Legacy
Ajax retired with 36 wins from 46 starts, earning £40,730 in prize money – a massive sum for that era. He was champion sire in 1948-49 and his descendants continued his legacy on Australian racetracks. Ajax died in 1948 at age 14, but his impact on Australian racing was immense. He is remembered as one of the 'Big Four' of Australian racing alongside Phar Lap, Carbine, and Tulloch.
By the numbers
| Foaled | 1934 |
|---|---|
| Died | 1948 |
| Country | Australia |
| Colour | Chestnut |
| Sex | Stallion |
| Sire | Heroic |
| Dam | Medmenham |
Breeding
By Heroic (horse) out of Medmenham (IRE) (by Prince Galahad (GB)). Bred by Alfred W. Thompson, E.L. Balllieu.
Image: Ajax, via Wikimedia Commons. Miller’s Guide honours the champions of the Australian turf.
