One of the highlights of Saturday’s four Group 1 races at Randwick has lost a key contender, with unbeaten sprinter Private Harry opting out of the $3 million T J Smith Stakes.

Co-owner Kurrinda Bloodstock announced on Monday that the Harry Angel colt, last seen winning The Galaxy, would be sent to the spelling paddock to focus on the spring carnival.

“Private Harry is a very exciting, undefeated colt. What he has achieved so far is outstanding and it needs to be remembered that his first start was only in November 2024,” Kurrinda said in a statement.

“Whilst running Private Harry in the T J Smith Stakes 2025 is tempting, we feel he will benefit greatly from the opportunity to rest in anticipation of the Spring Carnival and, ultimately, the 2025 TAB Everest.”

Private Harry, who is already confirmed for the $20 million The Everest, is owned in part by Yulong after they secured 50 percent of the colt following his victory in The Galaxy.

The withdrawal of Private Harry has seen Newmarket Handicap winner Joliestar move into favouritism for the 1200m race, with Briasa, who ran fourth in The Galaxy, now sharing second place in the betting with Sunshine In Paris.

The T J Smith Stakes is one of the four major events on Day 1 of The Championships, alongside the $4 million Doncaster Mile (1600m), $2 million ATC Australian Derby (2400m), and $1 million ATC Sires’ (1400m).