After an eight-year hiatus, the racing world witnessed a stunning comeback that left everyone in awe. Lauren Stojakovic’s return to the saddle wasn’t just a comeback—it was a triumph, as she clinched victory in her first race ride in nearly nine years at Murray Bridge on Wednesday. But here’s where it gets even more remarkable: her win wasn’t just a fluke—it was a massive plunge, with the horse she rode, Its'anotherbattle, slashing odds from $7.50 to a staggering $1.70 before the race began.
Stojakovic, famously known for her 2013 Blue Diamond Stakes win aboard Miracles Of Life, added another chapter to her racing fairytale. This time, she partnered with the Shane and Cassie Oxlade-trained filly, Its'anotherbattle, who had already impressed in three trial wins—all under Stojakovic’s guidance. The Harry Angel filly’s performance was nothing short of flawless. She burst out of barrier two and dominated from start to finish, leaving her rivals in the dust. Stojakovic even had the luxury of glancing back in the final stretch, confident in her easy victory.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Stojakovic’s return wasn’t just about racing—it was about overcoming personal challenges. After retiring in February 2017 due to weight issues, she admitted, ‘Probably the day I retired, I wanted to come back.’ She struggled for years, hoping a short break would solve the problem, but it took eight-and-a-half years to finally get it under control. Her honesty about this struggle raises a thought-provoking question: How many athletes face similar battles behind the scenes, and what support systems are in place to help them?
Post-race, Stojakovic expressed profound gratitude to the Oxlades, saying, ‘I am just so thankful and grateful that they trusted me with her today.’ For her, this win was more than a victory—it was a second fairytale, following her Blue Diamond triumph.
Shane Oxlade, visibly emotional, shared his pride in Stojakovic’s journey. ‘She has worked hard,’ he said. ‘I told her a month ago, ‘Mate, if you’re serious about coming back, we’ll make this your first ride.’ And this is the part most people miss: the trust and belief between trainer and jockey can make all the difference. I’m just pumped for her.’
And this is the part that sparks debate: Stojakovic’s return challenges the notion that athletes can’t bounce back after long breaks. Does her success redefine what’s possible in racing? Or is this a rare exception? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
WATCH: Hear from Stojakovic as she reflects on her incredible comeback.
WATCH: Relive Its'anotherbattle’s dominant win that marked the beginning of a new era for Stojakovic.
