The Group 3 Magic Maiden has cemented itself as one of the premier races for no-win greyhounds in Australia since its inception in 2002, serving as a crucial launching pad for emerging talent.
Held over 520 metres at Wentworth Park, the prestigious series is open to the best 88 maiden greyhounds nominated, plus reserves, with competitors facing a gruelling three-week series that culminates in a high-stakes final on Golden Easter Egg night, where $25,000 awaits the winner.
Each year, this event showcases the next generation of stars, with many participants going on to enjoy stellar careers. Notable chasers who began their journeys in the Magic Maiden include Tommy Brislane (4th, 2014), Zipping Lad (3rd, 2011), Perfect Fancy (3rd, 2010), Thai Alert (8th, 2008), Fancy Penny (3rd, 2007), and Collision (4th, 2003), with some of these names later making a significant impact in elite races.
With its rich history and reputation for unearthing future champions, the Magic Maiden remains a must-watch event on the Australian greyhound racing calendar.
The 2026 Magic Maiden field is yet to be released, with these due after the running of the heats on the April 2, 2026.
2026 Magic Maiden odds
The Magic Maiden odds are yet to be released.
Betting on the Group 3 Magic Maiden
The Magic Maiden at Wentworth Park is the ultimate proving ground for greyhound racing’s rising stars, showcasing the best unraced young sprinters making their competitive debut. As a highly anticipated age-restricted event, it draws strong betting interest, with punters eager to identify emerging talent before they hit the big stage.
Our recommended online bookmakers will offer fixed odds markets leading up to the heats and final, with odds adjusting once the box draw is confirmed. Early all-in markets may also be available at select bookies like Neds and Bet365, providing a chance to secure value on promising newcomers.
With a mix of win/place bets and exotic betting options, the Magic Maiden offers plenty of wagering opportunities, especially for those who follow breeding, trial form, and expert analysis.
As the 2026 edition approaches, staying updated with our form guides and expert race tips will give you the edge in finding the best value runners in this exciting series.
Magic Maiden Series Bookies
Group 3 Magic Maiden history
The Magic Maiden is a distinguished Group 3 greyhound race that has become a pivotal event for debutant greyhounds in Australia. Established in 2002, the race is held over a 520-meter distance at Wentworth Park in New South Wales. It is specifically designed for maiden greyhounds, offering them a significant platform to commence their racing careers.
Each year, the series is open to the best 88 maiden greyhounds nominated, plus reserves. The competition spans three weeks, culminating in a final that awards $25,000 to the winner. Notably, the Magic Maiden final is traditionally run on the same night as the Golden Easter Egg final, adding to its prestige.
The Magic Maiden remains a cornerstone event in Australian greyhound racing, celebrated for its rich history and its role in providing a platform for maiden greyhounds to embark on successful racing careers.
Group 3 Magic Maiden recent results
Taw Galaxy captured the 2025 Group 3 Ladbrokes Magic Maiden Final at Wentworth Park on April 12, delivering a standout performance in just his second career start. Trained by Ruth Matic for owner Adrian Rowe, the blue brindle dog broke sharply from box two, clocking a swift first split of 5.54 seconds and maintaining his lead to finish in 30.06 seconds over the 520m distance, narrowly holding off Makati Lad by 0.13 seconds. This victory marked Matic’s second Magic Maiden title, her first being with Black Bear Lee in 2015. Taw Galaxy’s win not only secured the $25,000 prize but also signaled his potential for higher-grade competitions, with subsequent performances including a sub-30-second run at Wentworth Park, positioning him as a contender for the prestigious Group 1 Vic Peters Classic.
The 2024 Magic Maiden showcased a stellar performance by Zipping Mario, trained by Sam Sultana. Demonstrating exceptional speed, Zipping Mario secured the title with a dominant run over the 520m distance at Wentworth Park, clocking a time of 29.84 seconds.
2024 Magic Maiden results Distance: 520m Winner: Zipping Mario (Trainer: Sam Sultana) Time: 29.84 seconds Winning margin: 3-3/4L Runner-up: Zipping Bonucci Boxes: 7, 2, 4
In 2023, One Hot Bandit, trained by Anthony Lord, delivered an impressive performance in the Magic Maiden. Leading from the outset, One Hot Bandit controlled the race and finished strongly over the 520m distance at Wentworth Park, securing victory with a time of 29.65 seconds.
2023 Magic Maiden results Distance: 520m Winner: One Hot Bandit (Trainer: Anthony Lord) Time: 29.65 seconds Winning margin: 3-1/2L Runner-up: Zipping Elkie Boxes: 8, 1, 6
The 2022 Magic Maiden saw Zipping Novak, trained by Jason Magri, deliver an outstanding run. The greyhound dominated the 520m race at Wentworth Park, finishing 5-1/2 lengths ahead of the runner-up, Ibrox Wildfire, in 29.65 seconds.
In 2021, Bandit Ned, under the guidance of trainer Anthony Lord, displayed incredible skill and determination. The greyhound completed the 520m race at Wentworth Park in 30.07 seconds, securing victory by 3/4 of a length over Cowgirl Ethics.
2021 Magic Maiden results Distance: 520m Winner: Bandit Ned (Trainer: Anthony Lord) Time: 30.07 seconds Winning margin: 3/4L Runner-up: Cowgirl Ethics Boxes: 7, 5, 6
The Magic Maiden event was not held in 2020.
The 2019 Magic Maiden was won by Timeless Moment, trained by Kerry Drynan. Displaying exceptional pace and determination, Timeless Moment clinched victory over the 520m distance at Wentworth Park, finishing in 30.03 seconds.
In 2018, Nangar Jill, trained by Dennis Barnes, delivered a dominant display in the Magic Maiden. The greyhound surged ahead in the final stretch, winning over the 520m distance at Wentworth Park in a time of 30.23 seconds.
