Takeover Target: A Tale of Grit, Glory, and Unprecedented Triumph

A Horse with an Unlikely Beginning

“Archie’s” story begins in a manner not too dissimilar to the legendary ‘rags to riches’ fairy tales. Takeover Target, an Australian thoroughbred with humble origins, would grow to become one of the most acclaimed figures in horse racing. Born in 1999, he was initially discarded due to a chronic leg problem, but as we soon discovered, this adversity only prefaced the remarkable journey that lay ahead. If there’s ever been a great movie plot that’s written itself, it’s bloody this one!

The Purchase: A Chance Encounter

Enter Joe Janiak, a cab driver from New South Wales. In 2003, with a modest budget of $1375, he took a chance on the injury-prone Takeover Target. The purchase, deemed a risk by many, didn't perturb him in the slightest. Little did he know that this seemingly small decision would chart the course for an incredible racing saga. Joe must have been a punter, because to win the prizemoney he did, he’s won a bet at 4383/1! Not bad…

Training: Unconventional but Remarkable

Janiak's approach to training was as unique as the story itself. Without the luxury of high-end facilities, he took to the forest, running Takeover Target up and down the hilly terrain. This unusual regimen served to strengthen the horse's problematic leg and built an endurance that would become the envy of many in the sport. He grew into a tough competitor and could dictate speed in a race, and maintain a high cruising speed that would see his competitors wilt when the going got tough… He also could run leaders down, as seen below in the 2006 Newmarket, up the straight at Flemington.

The Rise to Fame: An Underdog’s Tale

Against all odds, the duo's debut into the racing world came in 2004. With Janiak as his trainer, Takeover Target took the racing industry by storm, racking up wins across Australia. The victories piled up, earning them a spot at Royal Ascot in 2006. The pair astonished the world, as the Aussie underdog sprinted past the finish line to a stunning victory. This marked the beginning of international fame for our unlikely heroes. There’s not many better years in horse racing records than Takeover Target’s 2006 check out them results below…

The International Star: Takeover Target’s World Tour

Takeover Target didn’t just stop at Royal Ascot. Over the years, he competed and triumphed in racing circuits around the world, from Japan's Sprinters Stakes to Singapore's KrisFlyer International Sprint. His electrifying performances and unyielding spirit inspired many and won him fans worldwide. From Queanbeyan to the WORLD! Just a crazy story for an Aussie battler and his mate, “Archie”.

The Golden Retirement: A True Champion’s Rest

By the end of his illustrious career, Takeover Target had accumulated over $6 million in prize money, a far cry from the meager price he was initially purchased for. He retired in 2009, having proved to the world that the strength of will often outweighs the perceived limitations of physical form.

Legacy: Remembering Takeover Target

Today, we remember Takeover Target, not just as a racehorse, but as a symbol of resilience, determination, and hope. His story teaches us that, sometimes, champions come from the most unexpected places. It reminds us to look beyond initial obstacles, encouraging us to take chances, even when the odds seem stacked against us. From gammy legs in a paddock to literally the worldwide stage, and his cabbie trainer, JJ, with him all the way. Brings a bloody tear to the eye I tell ya!

Conclusion: A Final Salute

From his unassuming beginnings to his spectacular victories on the international stage, Takeover Target's life was a testament to the spirit of the underdog. His legacy, like his sprint, will continue to endure and inspire, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of horse racing. In the end, Takeover Target's tale is not just a racing story but a life lesson - an affirmation of faith in the face of adversity, a tribute to hard work, and a celebration of the unexpected triumphs that life often throws our way.

So here's to Takeover Target, the racehorse who captured our hearts and sprinted right into racing folklore.

(ps Russ Crowe, we know you’re reading… get this made into a movie, please. Thanks mate, Punt Hub)

TAKEOVER TARGET - RACE RECORD