Nicconi’s Superstar Nature Strip Crowned Australian Horse of the Year

A six year-old gelding by Nicconi, gifted sprinter Nature Strip was named the 2019-20 Australian Horse of the Year on Monday night.

Nature Strip earned the coveted award after a stellar season comprising four wins from seven starts, earning nearly $4 million prizemoney and including three Group I successes in the TJ Smith Stakes, Darley Classic and Moir Stakes.

This is the fifth consecutive year Waller has trained the Horse of the Year winner after all-time great Winx won an unprecedented four titles before her retirement last year.

“It is amazing to get a horse like this,’’ Waller said of Nature Strip who was also voted Champion Sprinter.

“He has gone from a horse that has been a genuine Group 2 winner, and then in one season has won multiple Group 1 races including the biggest sprint races on the racing calendar.

“It is a privilege to be part of his career and respect should also be given to my team for the work they have done with Nature Strip behind the scenes making sure that he is well prepared and continues to peak throughout each preparation resulting in some really big wins.’’

Widden Stud congratulate all of his connections and wish everyone the best of luck for the new season.