Racing
The BYD Quokka 2026: Rey Magnerio Runner Profile
Rey Magnerio is the second horse selected for The BYD Quokka.
After a standout two‑week campaign during The Pinnacles, Gold Rush hero Rey Magnerio returns to tackle the $5 million BYD Quokka (1200m).
The Robbie Griffiths‑trained six‑year‑old announced himself in Perth last December when lowering the colours of dual Quokka champion Overpass in the $1.5 million Gold Rush (1400m). Now he heads back west with WA's richest race firmly in his sights at Ascot on Saturday, 18 April 2026.
Sportsbet's decision to select him as their slot runner was straightforward. The son of Magnus thrived in the Perth conditions during The Pinnacles, and his ratings profile only strengthened the case.
Rated 115 by Racing and Sports when he crossed the Nullarbor in November, Rey immediately matched that peak at his first Ascot appearance, finishing just behind Libertad and WA's adopted son Overpass in the Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m).
Two weeks later he went one better, turning the tables with a 117 performance to cut down Overpass and repel the late surge of Cosmic Crusader, who was backing up quickly after winning the Group 1 Northerly (1800m) seven days earlier.
Carrying that 117 RAS rating, Rey Magnerio currently sits as the second‑highest rated confirmed Quokka runner, trailing only newly crowned Group 1 Newmarket Handicap winner Caballus (118) - Bjorn Baker's chosen successor to his two‑time Quokka hero.
Rey's body of work across the past two seasons is a testament to his consistency. He has run to 110 or better in 10 of his last 14 starts.
From a Quokka‑specific lens, he has produced 115 or better five times, peaking at 117. For comparison, Overpass posted 119 and 118 in his two victories, while last year's winner Jokers Grin was rated 116.
While Rey Magnerio may not possess upside of some rivals, his figures are rock-solid, deep, and repeatable - the hallmarks of a horse more than capable of becoming a worthy BYD Quokka champion on April 18.
About the Slot Holder: Sportsbet
Sportsbet can boast being one of the largest wagering operators in Australia with more than 2 million customers nationwide.
They are known for some impressive marketing which has included the notorious early payouts of several events to customers which would have subsequently been losing bets.
They also regularly deliver justice payouts on both racing and sporting events.
Currently an $6* chance with TABtouch, Rey Magnerio is on the third line of betting, behind Caballus (S) ($3.50)and Jimmystar ($5).
*Prices correct as of 9am on March 12th.
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