David Gately Horse Racing Tips for JJ Atkins 13/6/26

The final Group 1 of the Brisbane two-year-old season brings together a fascinating mix of proven performers and emerging stayers, with the 1600m of the JJ Atkins set to test both class and stamina.

Several key runners come through the Group 1 J.J. Atkins lead-up races and while there isn't a standout dominant juvenile, there is plenty of depth.

The step to a mile looks crucial and David Gately believes a number of these youngsters are only now getting to their ideal distance.

Race Conditions

Race: JJ Atkins (Group 1)
Distance: 1600m
Age: Two-Year-Olds
Conditions: Set Weights

 

 

David Gately – JJ Atkins Preview 2026

#4 Tron Bolt

Tron Bolt has done little wrong this preparation and arrives here chasing a hat-trick of victories.

His recent win over Cormier was particularly impressive, putting a gap on the remainder of the field and confirming the strength of his current form. Importantly, he has now proven himself on both wet and dry surfaces, giving connections confidence regardless of conditions on raceday.

The rise to 1600m looks another positive.

Everything about his racing style suggests he'll appreciate the extra distance and if he continues on the same upward trajectory, he looks the horse they all have to beat.

 

Main Dangers

#6 Kickup Rocky

Kickup Rocky is the value runner in the field.

He was a big price in the Sires' Produce but produced one of the strongest closing efforts of the race, circling the field from well back before attacking the line late.

His final sectionals were excellent and the way he hit the line strongly suggests the mile is exactly what he has been looking for.

If the tempo is genuine, expect him to be charging late.

 

#5 Stormy Marco

Stormy Marco had little luck when it mattered most in the Sires' Produce.

When the pressure went on, he found himself needing clear running and by the time he balanced up, the race was effectively over.

Despite that, his closing work was encouraging and the extra distance looks ideal.

With even luck this time, he can improve significantly.

 

#2 Martist

Martist continues to race well without much going his way.

His run two starts back was full of merit when producing a powerful finish, while his latest effort again featured traffic issues at a crucial stage.

Once clear, he still found the line strongly and shapes as another runner who should appreciate stepping up to 1600m.

 

#1 Berzelius

The Sires' Produce winner deserves plenty of respect.

He covered ground throughout that victory and still proved too strong when it mattered most.

That performance gives him genuine Group 1 credentials and while he may not offer the same upside as some of his rivals, there are no knocks on his current form.

 

#8 Cormier

Cormier couldn't match Tron Bolt last start but was clearly superior to the remainder of the field.

If that form line proves to be the right one heading into this race, he remains a genuine contender and shouldn't be overlooked.

 

David Gately's Top 6

1. Tron Bolt
2. Kickup Rocky
3. Stormy Marco
4. Martist
5. Berzelius
6. Cormier

The JJ Atkins often uncovers a future spring contender and this year's edition looks no different.

Tron Bolt brings the strongest exposed form into the race and shapes as the horse to beat, while Kickup Rocky appeals as the value runner capable of making his presence felt late.

 

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