Dylan Parrott crosses the finish line.
In a display of sheer class and resilience, Canberra-based trainer and Gundagai born and bred Todd Smart celebrated a resounding success at the 125th Annual Yass Picnic Races, where his star gelding Gundy Guy stormed to victory in the prestigious Yass Cup.
Carrying a hefty 77.5kg topweight, the five-year-old bay gelding proved untouchable, powering home by an impressive 4.3 lengths under apprentice rider Dylan Parrott. The win not only highlighted Gundy Guy’s emerging talent but also underscored Smart’s knack for preparing horses for big occasions in regional racing circuits.
Gundy Guy, sired by Capitalist out of the dam In Jest, has been building an enviable record under Smart’s guidance. Owned by a syndicate including B J McAlister, M P Hay, A Clancy, and others, the gelding has now notched five wins from 20 starts, with two seconds and one third, amassing over $102,375 in prizemoney.
His recent form has been particularly strong, entering the Yass Cup off a solid placing in the Tumut Cup, which set high expectations for the picnic meeting.
Earlier in his campaign, Gundy Guy showcased his versatility with a double triumph at Wagga in February 2024, partnering with jockey Billy Owen—both Gundagai products now based in Canberra.
By August 2024, he had improved his strike rate to four wins and a placing from just seven outings, cementing his status as one of Smart’s stable stars.
Todd Smart’s journey in the racing industry is a testament to his deep-rooted passion for horses. Over his career, Smart has saddled up 1,114 starters, securing 128 wins (an 11% strike rate) and 269 placings, for a 36% place rate overall. His first winner came in 2014 with Reka Outlaw, marking the start of a steady ascent in the training ranks.
Smart’s prominent wins extend beyond picnic races, showcasing his ability to compete at higher levels. In September 2025, he broke his duck at Royal Randwick with So Magnificent, who claimed a TAB Highway Handicap for his fourth win from five starts—a milestone moment where Smart doubled as strapper.
More recently, in February 2026, Smart teamed up with Group One Thoroughbreds to chase further success at Albury, aiming for a third winner in quick succession. His stable has also produced black-type contenders, such as the bargain-buy two-year-old Love Shuck, purchased for just $6,000 and targeted at the $250,000 Black Opal Stakes at Thoroughbred Park.
Earlier in his career, Smart worked with Group 1 winners like Ista Kareem (2009 Sydney Cup) and Bluetigeroo (2007 BMW), experiences that have shaped his training philosophy.
The Yass Picnic Races, celebrating its 125th edition, provided a fitting stage for Smart and Gundy Guy’s triumph, drawing crowds to the historic event amid the rolling hills of southern NSW. As Smart eyes more metropolitan challenges, this regional victory serves as a reminder of his grassroots origins and enduring success in Australian racing.
With horses like Gundy Guy leading the charge, the future looks bright for the Gundagai native turned Canberra powerhouse.
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