Chief Stipe

Depends which stats you look at. I seen some that indicate the complete opposite. The thing that gets me is the hypocrisy. The Government has an agenda to eliminate smoking of tobacco but are going to promote smoking of a different weed! Go figure! The stats do show that there is an increase in marijuana consumption especially amongst the young. Considering there is also old research that shows those that advance to harder recreational drugs start out with marijuana you would expect over time that an increase in other drug use would occur.

I remember the Maori and the Hinemoa but only through the misspent youth of my father and the tales he told thereof. He and his mates would travel from the West Coast (mostly a dirt road then and they raced each other in their cars) to Lyttelton and catch either the Maori or the Hinemoa to travel to Wellington to see the AB's play at Athletic Park. Same people on the boat every year and party from when they started. They only stayed as long in Wellington as it was necessary to catch the next ferry back to Lyttelton, Christchurch. I was on board the Wahine a week before she went down but only in port at Lyttelton. We were visiting dad's cousin - Captain Robertson. I also studied the storm that claimed her at Lincoln University as part of my degree. It was most unfortunate that Cyclone Giselle arrived in Wellington exactly the same time as the Wahine was to sail through the heads.

M7 Starting at 5:16pm. 8 Race Programme. Multiples Doubles: 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8 Trebles: 2-3-4, 6-7-8 Quaddies: 1-2-3-4, 5-6-7-8 Place 6: 3-4-5-6-7-8 Pick 6: 3-4-5-6-7-8 Form PDF 2019_07_11_Harn_M7_Book Download View the full article

The Shark goes looking for winners on Thursday night during the eight race card from Forbury Park in Dunedin. For more punting information head to The Punters Lounge Race 1 5 Prestissimo: Solid seconds in both of the last two starts. Meets nothing stronger here than what was faced in those occasions. Should break the maiden status tonight. 7 Majestic Rose: Goes good enough to win a maiden easily enough, but not always the best manners. Few better opportunities than this though. Right in it. 3 Ayutthaya: Got it wrong last time out, which is out of character. Form prior was very good though and with a clean getaway can go close in an even looking field. 4 Be Bee Lass: No star, but good manners will go a long way here. Should be on the speed and out of trouble. Selections: 5-7-3-4 Race 2 5 Lei Miss: Has been knocking around in much stronger fields than this recently and performing well. Front line draw and even field gives a good opportunity. 6 Olive Cook: Another with the good form on the board. Can forgive second day failure at Blenheim. Freshened for this and will give it a very good shake. 11 Smokin Annie: There was a bit of smoke around for this one last time and a good run came from it. Can build on that for another positive result here tonight. 3 Phil’s Last Chance: Runs in a straight line last week and probably wins. Long time maiden, but generally always a chance and good draw tonight. Selections: 5-6-11-3 Race 3 7 Huckabee: Finally showed the full potential last time out for a solid second. This is no harder and a similar effort should get a strong result in this line up. 8 Absolut Russian: Very good first up from the new stable but cops a wide draw here. Likely to still slide forward and should be better for the fresh up run. 3 Last Harrah: Made a move into it on the home bend last time out and wasn’t bad to the line. Should be handier here and has a decent place chance at least. 10 Old Luke: Hit the line with a bit of venom for the last start fifth. Can build on that with only a few strong chances here. Selections: 7-8-3-10 Race 4 2 Hannity: Few bad tricks in the run last week but prior effort was really solid. Repeat of that from tonight’s good draw and the best behaviour and he can win. 5 Brantley: Been very professional in last couple of victories, chasing a hat trick tonight and has a strong chance of achieving it in an even looking line up. 6 Honour The Bet: In good nick and running strong races. Stable and driver flying and you’re bound to get the best possible opportunity to win. 7 Aveross Rustler: Seventh last time out doesn’t look great, but that was at Addington behind Paddyproudfoot. Gate speed to cross them here too. Some hope. Selections: 2-5-6-7 Race 5 8 Imran Khan: Almost untouchable at the moment and only cops a 20 metre handicap here. Can keep making hay while the sun shines and grab another win. 11 That’s The Story: A lot more upside than most in this field and small size will help the chances. Can be a major player with a slick getaway. 1 Anothersuperstar: Tried to run them along at Rangiora last week. Fifth on the Friday night was good and excellent here in runs prior. Cheeky chance off the front line. 10 Spotlight The Valley: Handy effort in a stronger field up in Canterbury last weekend. No superstar, but is always a chance. Selections: 8-11-1-10 Race 6 5 Bound To Impress: Last run was pretty handy. Usually a good beginner who can get on the speed here and with the right kind of run could be the surprise packet in an even line up. 6 Delight Of Texas: Impressive first up win from a new stable last week. They are kicking goals all over the country so need to respect once more in wide open affair. 12 Loma Jaccka: Not quite as easy to hop onto the speed here but form is good enough to say you’d be a fool to leave this one out of all calculations. 1 Matinee Idol: Doesn’t mind the standing start and Williamson sticks with the ship. Might look to jump and run here and give them a fright. Selections: 5-6-12-1 Race 7 1 Jungle Gem: Been the winter star so far in this neck of the woods. Tough as old boots and just doesn’t know when to quit. Big chance if able to hold up from the draw. 9 Alexy: Backed up win with a very good second last time out. Might end up with the sweet sort of trip here and with any luck can ping at them late. 5 Rake: Orange sticks with the ship. That’s a good sign. In good nick and finishing off nicely recently. Should be near to the speed here and can play a role. 3 Woodlea Shawn: Nice type who was very good in a recent trial. Might try and take the bull by the horns here and control it from the top. Selections: 1-9-5-3 Race 8 1 Hannah Extreme: Consistent performer fresh up from a spell. Not a good field this so you’d expect a good run from the handy draw. Can win. 5 Vigoroso: Been some big runs recently. Hitting the line strong. No real stand outs here so would expect another strong effort. 10 Glacier Coaster: Not far away in all recent runs and notable gear change here tonight. Expecting a top three finish, if not a victory. 9 Ellnbac: Good form on the board and might be following out the right horse. Could be dangerous late and get a big slice of this. Selections: 1-5-10-9 BEST: 8 Imran Khan (Race 5) NEXT: 5 Lei Miss (Race 2) VALUE: 5 Bound To Impress (Race 6) View the full article

Dave Macdonald. It will not matter to trainer-driver Terry Chmiel who calls Brantley home at Forbury Park, so long as they are calling him home for hat-trick of wins. The 3yr-old, who Chmiel prepares with wife Glenys, will attempt to back up his recent wins at Timaru and Nelson in the Jason Teaz And Davey Mac Medley Mobile Pace on Thursday night. Teaz and his commentating colleage, Dave McDonald, will take turns calling the event to celebrate the meeting being Teaz’s last as Otago’s full time commentator. Brantley has burst back in to winning form with his recent back-to-back victories. Chmiel said it has been a case of the horse being rewarded for his consistent efforts this term. “All of his runs this year have been not too bad,” the trainer-driver said. “There has only been one time he has missed a cheque – when he missed away on the first day at Nelson [recently].” Brantley was particular impressive in his last start win at Timaru. The Art Major gelding was last at the 400m, before producing a powerful finish to win by two lengths. Brantley looks to face a tougher test on Thursday night, but Chmiel thinks he is up to it. “He is in a good touch of form and he has got a bit of ability, so he won’t be out of it.” The combination of his powerful finishing burst and meeting a small field looks in Brantley’s favour. “He has got a lot of speed, so it doesn’t matter if he gets back, because he can run home over top of them.” “Being a small field, he shouldn’t be too far away from them.” Brantley steps up in class from his last start victory and meets several in form runners at Forbury Park. Race rival, No More change, added to her strong record at the track with an impressive win there, last week. Honour the Bet, Kotare Elite and Hannity add to an intriguing and competitive 2200m contest. Brantley could start the weekend off well for his family with victory on Thursday night. His close relation, star filly Princess Tiffany, will start at microscopic odds in the group 1 Queensland Oaks at Albion Park on Saturday night. Brantley is a half brother to Dancing Diamonds, the dam of the Mark Purdon and Natalie Rasmussen trained filly. Both pacers are by Art Major. The Chmiel stable start one other runner at the Forbury Park meeting in Pilch. The 3yr-old beat race rival Woodlea Shawn in trial at Rangiora, last week, ahead of what will be his first start since May. “He has come back good, he might need another run under his belt, but the trip away will make him,” Chmiel said. “He is a horse that has disappointed me, I though the was a lot better than what he has been.” “He has had a lot of issues, but hopefully we are on top of them, now.” Chmiel will take three outside drives at Thursday night’s meeting. They include Lei Miss in race 2, G T Reactor in race 6 and Edie Jaccka in race 8. Lei Miss clearly looks to be the strongest chance of the trio. “She went good there last time and was unlucky at Rangiora on Sunday,” Chmiel said View the full article

Tiger Tara. By Adam Hamilton The Inter Dominion champ is back. Tiger Tara returns to racing a week earlier than expected in a quest to “sharpen-up” for a step straight back into Group 1 racing in next week’s $250,000 Blacks A Fake at Albion Park. And, in a twist of circumstances, he will be reunited with regular driver Todd McCarthy. Lauren Tritton had been booked for the drive, but when Pizzuto scratched Majordan from Saturday night’s Group 1 Sunshine Sprint at Albion Park, McCarthy scrapped plans to head north. “I owe Lauren one,” Pizzuto said. “I’ve promised her a drive on the horse and she’ll get one, but with Todd now staying in Sydney it’s important he drives the horse. He hasn’t been on the horse since the Miracle Mile,” Pizzuto said. “We’ve got a Group 1 race the week after and Todd needs to get a feel for the horse this week to know where he’s at ahead of Brisbane the week after. “I think he’s raring to go, I almost went first-up into the Blacks A Fake, but the fact this week’s race is 2300m convinced me to run here at Menangle even though he’s got the outside draw again.” It doesn’t look a strong race and the Aussie TAB has Tiger Tara a $1.15 favourite despite the draw. “He’s working really well and he’s had those couple of private trials at Bankstown. He’s ready. I know him, he’s ready,” Pizzuto said. “You saw Majordan win the Len Smith and Tiger’s working better than him.” On Majordan, Pizzuto said a poor blood test Tuesday morning forced his scratching from the Sunshine Sprint. “He wasn’t the same horse when beaten at Menangle last week as he was winning the Len Smith first-up,” Pizzuto said. “He seemed a bit flat afterwards so I got some bloods done and they weren’t ideal. You cant travel a horse for a Group 1 unless he’s 100 per cent. “It’s annoying because, even from the back row, I think he’d have given it a huge shake, but only if he was at his top. “I really had to screw him right down to win that Len Smith, knowing he needed to go so hard down the back straight to break them, and that obviously took a lot of out of him. “He’s having a little rest then I’ll wind him up again.” View the full article

My Callisto. The Richard Collett-trained My Callisto showed his determined spirit when taking out the West Brook Wines 1600 at Avondale on Wednesday. The three-year-old son of Rock ‘n’ Pop was caught three-wide the entire trip after jumping from his wide barrier, but he was able to gather in the leaders down the home straight to win by half a length over Sheez Leica. Jockey Andrew Calder was pleased with the result after the pair finished runner-up on debut at Counties last month. “I don’t want to get too carried away with a maiden win, but he is going to make a really nice staying horse later on,” Calder said. “He’s destined to go 2000m and further. “He was a bit green last time. Today he did things a lot better and I think blinkers will help him a lot. “We are happy to let them learn a bit at this stage of their career.” My Callisto became the 34th winner for Waikato Stud stallion Rock ‘N’ Pop, who stands at the Matamata farm for a fee of $7,000+GST. View the full article

The NZTBA was part of the hearing process to define the healthy rivers policy with the Waikato Regional Council. An increase in political action will provide policy and regulatory framework to remedy the declining water quality throughout New Zealand. It has been well documented that poor farming practises over the years have led to a loss of nutrients in the soil and pollution of the waterways, and that it is no longer acceptable. Not surprisingly the Waikato Regional Council, which has the one of the largest rivers in the country flowing through its region, is proactive in wanting to provide policy and regulations for healthy rivers. Recently the New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (NZTBA) was part of the hearing process when defining this policy. The finding from this hearing will see major rule change and compliance on agricultural farming including equine farming in the region. The NZTBA believes that what is happening in the Waikato region is bound to happen in other areas throughout New Zealand where rivers flow, and from this hearing process hope to develop a blueprint for members’ farms in other regions. In 2017 the Waikato Regional Council (WRC), began the process of forming the policy dubbed “Plan Change 1- Waikato and Waipa Catchments” and later that year it came to the attention of the NZTBA that the WRC were treating horses in the same category as sheep and cattle, which would mean that there would be unfair increased costs to breeders for ongoing compliance. They were using an Agricultural software product known as Overseer that enables farmers and growers to improve nutrient use on farms, delivering better environmental outcomes and better farm profitability. It is the only tool available to land managers in New Zealand capable of estimating long-term average nutrient losses from farms, and it is used by some Regional Councils to support an effects-based approach to managing fresh water as part of the government’s National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management. Overseer assumes that horses are equivalent to ruminant animals when estimating nutrient losses, but as a mono-gastric hind gut ferment horses utilise nutrients differently. As it stands the Plan Change 1 had no consideration of the potential impacts on equine properties and their livelihoods. After undertaking some research on the subject, the NZTBA then employed the services of Sally Linton, a specialist environmental consultant working primarily in the rural sector on resource management and policy for central and local government. “Sally Linton has helped us to understand the processes involved and the potential impact on our livelihoods if we were not as an industry involved in the process at the initial hearing stage,” NZTBA chief executive Justine Sclater said. “There had been no consideration of the potential impacts on equine properties as there is a significant difference between our farming practices and other primary industries such as dairying. As an industry we are trying to raise an athlete therefore it is a different mechanism to raising a food producing animal. “In general, equine farms are usually compliant as they are well planted with trees and all waterways are fenced off, any obstacles that present hazards are fenced to lessen the risk of any potential injury. Horses are often housed indoors during wet and cold periods and our fertilizer inputs are different to other grazing farms.” The farming methods used by equine people usually demonstrate Good Management Plans (GMP). Over the past 18 months the NZTBA has continued conversations with other sectors groups within the Equine industry and along with several breeders and Sally Linton, have met with the WRC to state their case for a workable outcome for the industry and the WRC. Throughout the consultation process, the WRC were accommodating and keen to ensure the policy and bylaws introduced are compatible to all parties. In late 2018 the NZTBA filed a substantial submission representing the entire equine industry. More recently, along with several breeders domiciled in the WRC and relevant scientific specialists, the NZTBA verbally presented at the submission hearing. “We felt we were received favourably by the panel as we were organised and professional with our presentation, providing a thorough and good understanding of our practices,” said Sclater. “The outcome of the hearing will not be advised until at least March next year and the best-case scenario is we will have 10 years to bring ourselves up to speed and show that we are compliant. “In the meantime, we will continue to work closely with the WRC on this matter. “Sooner or later Freshwater Management is going to affect properties with horses all over the country and we have put a lot of time and resources in ensuring we have the best advice possible to provide for our members and those in the equine industry.” From all this research and consultation, the NZTBA hope to develop a manual on good environment stewardship which will be available on their website. This will be updated as necessary and continually promoted through their digital publications. Going forward it is intended to hold a field day at a leading stud farm property in the Waikato that promotes GMP, as well as hosting educational seminars nationwide. It is intended that the Equine Research Foundation, where the NZTBA has representation, will also become involved in projects that assist the equine industry in leaving a minimal environmental footprint. – Michelle Saba, NZTBA View the full article

Another Day. Talented New Zealand-bred mare Another Dollar has never won at Doomben but she has the best form on the track of the runners in Saturday’s Membership at BRC Handicap (2020m). The race has attracted a disappointing field of six but it is one of the more interesting races because every runner has a chance of winning. Another Dollar, who heads trainer Chris Waller’s three runners, has had five starts at Doomben for four seconds and a third. It may not sound all that impressive until it is realised the seconds have included in the Listed The Bracelet (1630m), Gr.2 The Roses (2000m) and Gr.1 Queensland Oaks (2200m). Another Dollar has not won since taking a benchmark race at Toowoomba in April last year but she has since picked up more than A$220,000 in prize money. Another Dollar has raced in Sydney and Melbourne since last winter but showed she was back near her best with a third in the Listed Mumm Stakes (1800m) at Eagle Farm three weeks ago. Waller’s Queensland manager Paul Shailer said he expected good efforts from all three runners. “It is a funny thing to say about a horse that has never won on the track but Another Dollar goes well at Doomben,” Shailer said. “Her only attempt at the track and distance was a second to Youngstar in The Roses and that is good form for this. “She was then a very good second in the Queensland Oaks at Doomben. “If any horse deserves a win it is her.” Ryan Maloney who is coming a successful comeback from injury has the ride on the daughter of Ocean Park. Shailer said race rival Savacool was looking for 2000m after running second over 1600m on a heavy track at the Sunshine Coast two weeks ago. “He was a Flemington winner at 1800m in the spring so the trip here won’t be a worry,” he said. -AAP View the full article

Sacred Day will contest Thursday’s Listed Grafton Cup (2350m). . Tony Pike is pleased with progressive galloper Sacred Day heading into Thursday’s Listed Grafton Cup (2350m), but he has a fair handle on his main opposition. A last-start winner at Doomben, Sacred Day has continued to impress Pike, but it is fellow Kiwi raider Igraine that the Cambridge horseman is wary of. “He is way out of the handicap, but on his best New Zealand form he would be a chance,” Pike said. “He has improved since his last run and he should get a good trip from gate one. He is a genuine each-way chance, but I think Igraine looks near-enough past the post.” Pike is expecting the race to be run at a genuine tempo which should suit his runner. “It looks like they are going to go pretty quick. It will be a solid speed and there are a couple of known leaders in the race,” he said. “From gate one he is probably not going to have to be back last, so if we can be around midfield on the fence and put him to sleep, hopefully he gets his chance. “I couldn’t be happier with him, but Igraine looks the one to beat. We have been looking after her as well when Rob (trainer Robert Priscott) has not been here. “Her work through the week has been fantastic and I would be surprised if she gets beaten. The track looks like it is going to have a bit of cut out of it too, which should suit her as well. “I think they should both run good races and shouldn’t be far away.” Pike has made his presence felt in Queensland throughout the Winter Carnival and the astute horseman is hopeful his final runner from his Eagle Farm-base can make a similar impact when venturing into the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales. “This will be the end of the road. Our horses are booked to go to Sydney on Sunday and fly home to New Zealand,” he said. “It has been a great carnival. I think we’re close to A$1.2 million in prize money. The Bostonian has been the big earner for the season but in general it has been pretty good. There were a couple that didn’t quite come up to expectations but that happens when you bring a fair few over. “Overall we’re pretty happy with the carnival. You learn each year what you should bring over and what you shouldn’t bring over. I can’t complain as there certainly wasn’t much happening at home and it is nice to be winning that sort of money at this time of the year.” With an uplift in prizemoney and Queensland’s premier track, Eagle Farm, back in full use after an extended-period of renovation setbacks, Pike said the Queensland carnival was as competitive as ever. “Bringing those older sprinting horses over can be hard work unless they’re proper Group One or Group Two horses. “Some of them are also badly off in the handicaps over here as well. A horse like Indecision came over here with a rating of near on 100 from New Zealand, which makes it pretty tough. “With Eagle Farm back open, Godolphin brought a pretty solid team. It is one of those carnivals where you used to be able to bring over an average stayer and win, but I think they’ve got to be a bit better than that now. “Even a race like the Grafton Cup, Ciaron Maher has got one in and Chris Waller has got a couple. They’re certainly not mug races probably like they used to be, to be honest.” Putting the sunshine of Queensland behind him, Pike has several reasons to maintain the spring in his step, with a number of promising prospects back in work at his Cambridge stable ahead of the new season. “There are a couple of fillies that I think are going to be very competitive in the better three-year-old fillies races, namely Kali and also Loire,” he said. Both fillies broke maiden ranks at Hawke’s Bay last term and the pair will be put on a path towards the Gr.1 Gavelhouse.com New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton. “We have a nice bunch of yearlings that are coming through. A few of them are going to have a jump-out on Friday. From the ones we bought at the sales, a few of them look like they are going to come up and make nice early two-year-olds. “Endless Drama had his first gallop back yesterday morning. He’s going to head to the Foxbridge Plate (Gr.2, 1200m) and then to the first two legs of the Hawke’s Bay triple crown. “The Bostonian comes back in next Monday and he probably won’t race this season in New Zealand and we will just work out whether we’re heading to Melbourne or Sydney with him a bit closer to the time.” Pike also reported that Hong Kong-owned Group Three winning juvenile Whiskey Neat would be continuing his career in Hong Kong. “Two or three of the better ones have headed off this season, which is unfortunately pretty standard,” he said. “We have sold a few along the way and a filly like Subpoena looked exceptional and was going to be a nice three-year-old filly, but she has gone to Sydney. “Surely Sacred will also do his future racing in Hong Kong and the hardest thing is trying to keep some of those nicer three-year-olds in New Zealand, as there is not a lot for them once they are past their three-year-old year.” View the full article

Perry Mason (inside) and Zardetto will contest the Grant Plumbing Wellington Steeplechase (5500m) at Trentham on Saturday. The Grant Plumbing Wellington Steeplechase (5500m) holds some great memories for Hastings trainer Paul Nelson and he hopes to add another victory in the race at Trentham on Saturday. Nelson has been one of Hawke’s Bay’s top trainers for many years, concentrating mainly on jumpers and has produced well in excess of 200 winners since he started training in the mid-1970s. His first major success came in the 1987 Wellington Steeplechase with Storm. “It does bring back some wonderful memories. It has happened a couple of times (winning the race) but it has been a long time since the first one in 1987,” he said. “Most of those in the riding ranks wouldn’t have been born then. We have been very lucky.” Nelson, who trains in partnership with Corrina McDougal, will line-up Perry Mason and Zardetto in the feature jumps race. Perry Mason will head into Saturday off the back of winning the Hawke’s Bay Steeplechase (4800m) at Hastings last month and Nelson said the nine-year-old son of Zed has come into his own as an older horse. “His Hawke’s Bay Steeples run hasn’t done him any harm,” Nelson said. “The track will be good on the inside and then when you hit the straight we could be working, but he seems to handle both types of going. “We were lucky enough to get him from Sylvia Kay and when we got him she said we won’t see the best of him till he is eight or nine. “She said it had been a very slow maturing family all they way through and it has probably proved that with this horse.” Prior to his victory at Hastings, Perry Mason finished runner-up in the McGregor Grant Steeplechase (4150m) at Ellerslie and Nelson has been pleased with his progress over the winter months. “His run in the McGregor Grant was really good, it was his first steeplechase for the winter. He then backed it up at Hawke’s Bay,” he said. “His form this season from July on has been pretty nice and he has been impeccable. It is another race on Saturday, but we are hoping he can go just as well again.” The stable will also line-up Zardetto, who finished third to his stablemate in the Hawke’s Bay Steeplechase, and Nelson is expecting a similar result this weekend. “We are happy with him,” Nelson said. “He galloped on Tuesday morning and it was probably the best he has galloped this time in. “He just seems a different horse this year. He has had a lot of bad luck with injuries and hopefully he is injury free at the moment. “His form reads well. I think the other horse might just have a bit younger legs and he probably would have it over him if it went the right way for both of them, but you never know.” Nelson and McDougal will also be hoping to take out the Anuka Smoker Wellington Hurdle (3400m) with No Tip on Saturday. The son of Mettre En Jeu was victorious on a Heavy11 track in his last hurdles outing at Trentham last month and his connections are hoping for a repeat performance on a similar rated track this weekend. “There is not very much horse, he is pretty light but he does look like he will stay,” Nelson said. “He did handle the bad ground at Wellington last time. I guess that is 75 percent of it if you can handle that Wellington ground you have got a chance.” View the full article

TAB News Pick6 this week – $40k Terminating at Forbury Park Harness on Thursday night. $40 Terminating Turbo Pick6 Friday night between Alexandra Park and Addington. Wish for Fish Fundraiser – Addington Raceway 19 July We are a registered charitable trust called wish for fish (www.wish4fish.co.nz). We help people with physical disabilities, mental illness and financial hardship to enjoy salt water activities. We have a large fundraising dinner planned at Addington Raceway, Christchurch on 19th of July. This event is to be held to raise our profile, some funds for our cause and also launch our supporters club. We are excited this year to be working in conjunction with the Child Cancer Foundation https://www.childcancer.org.nz/) & Conductive Education Canterbury http://www.cecanterbury.org/) in which funds raised will support their awesome causes. Help an amazing cause and enjoy a fabulous night out at Addington Raceway. TICKET COST: $130pp includes 3 course buffet & drinks package. The night will include charity auctions, raffles, lucky draws and a punters club ($10 per share). For more information and to order tickets please phone Mac on 027 471 2000, Bryce on 021 616 601 or email bryce@wish4fish.co.nz Addington Raceway and Events Centre – Friday 12 July What’s happening at Addington? Thousands of dollars to be won – Pascoes The Jewellers Ladies Night Friday 26 July is based in Silks Lounge to view all the races! TICKETS ON SALE, please go to – https://www.addington.co.nz/events-centre/events/ladies-night/ Major Prizes to be won include; 1 carat diamond ring valued at $3,300 thanks to our overall naming rights sponsor and principal partner Pascoes The Jewellers. 3-night escape on the Sunshine coast at the Peninsular Beachfront Resort Mooloolaba courtesy of Addington, with $1,000 towards airfares from Harness Racing New Zealand. This fabulous night includes; A glass of bubbles on arrival Gourmet buffet dinner Treat yourself to our nail art bar or a neck massage Opportunity to win a horse ownership experience on the night Entertainment throughout the night with harness racing action and live music after the last race Spot prizes throughout the night from Pascoes The Jewellers, Caci Riccarton, Lancôme and Addington Macca Lodge South of the Waitaki Winter Warmer Series is underway! This series consists of three heats and has a total stake money of $43,000. To be eligible for this series, horses had to be registered with HRNZ in the name of a trainer(s) based South of the Waitaki River as at 1 May through to 26 July 2019. The series will be for 3YO and older pacers assessed up to R60 as at the closing of nominations for heat one. The first place getters in each heat will have automatic entry into the final on Friday 26 July. For further details, please visit; http://www.addington.co.nz/racing/promotions-incentives/, or call Brian Rabbitt on 027 407 7234. Only 3 chances left to win $500 in our $50 All Up July Challenge!! 12, 19 and 26 July 2019 Simply place a $50 All Up on any of our last three meetings in July and if your bet has the highest return for the week you will win an extra $500. Entries and further enquiries contact Richard Bromley, Email: richard@addington.co.nz or call him on 021 888 900. Richard will be based in Christian Cullen Lounge each week. Please also visit our website for further – https://www.addington.co.nz/racing/50-all-up-july-challenge/ Have a great week everyone. We look forward to hosting you again soon. From the Addington Team Alexandra Park News – Friday 12 July Arabian Night – Friday 26th July from 5.30pm – Top of the Park Nurahib bik, we welcome you! We are extremely excited to host the first ever Arabian Night here at Alexandra Park! Let your senses get carried into a world of rich culture and mystical wonder, with the all-you-can-eat buffet transporting your taste buds to the Middle-East and the ever-exciting harness racing action taking place on the track below! Set in Top of the Park on Friday 26th July from 5.30pm, be sure to secure your table today! Phone 09 631 1165, email dining@alexandrapark.co.nz or book online at https://racenight.alexandrapark.co.nz/event/TOP260719/ Christmas at the Races featuring the Inter Dominion Championship 2019 Christmas at the Races are some of the hottest nights on the Alexandra Park Harness Racing calendar. Choose from our various rooms and packages the best option to suit your guests, get into the festive spirit with our amazing Christmas themed all-you-can-eat buffet and keep your eye out for Santa. There will be competitions, entertainment, photographers and non-stop harness racing excitement, plus live entertainment after the last race. This year offers added value with the Inter Dominion Championship being run in New Zealand for the first time in 8 years. Explore the best Alexandra Park has to offer, but don’t forget to book quickly as these popular nights don’t last long. For more information visit: https://www.alexandrapark.co.nz/whats-on/christmas-races-2019/ To make a booking, do it online or contact us 09 631 1165 or email dining@alexandrapark.co.nz South of the Bombays Race Series ($14,999) JUNE 14 & 21 / JULY 5 & 12 This series of races are primarily targeted for those horses who have predominantly raced at North Island tracks outside of Alexandra Park during the current 2018-2019 season. Eligibility Criteria: Since August 1, 2018. (All to be totalisator starts) (1) A minimum of two starts at a North Island track outside of Alexandra Park or Cambridge Raceway, or (2) A minimum of two starts at Cambridge Raceway plus one other start at a North Island Track outside of Alexandra Park, or (3) Alternatively a minimum of three starts at Cambridge Raceway. These criteria do not preclude horses who have had starts at Alexandra Park as long as they meet any of the other eligibility criteria. Mid-Winter Christmas – Christmas Party 21 & 28 June & 5 & 12 July 2019: Indulge in the festivity of mid-winter Christmas with Alexandra Park. Embrace the winter chills and find some festive spirit whilst enjoying the best harness racing in New Zealand. Offering FOUR function rooms and packages over four mid-winter Friday nights, there is something to suit all groups and budgets. Dream of mulled wine, all-you-can-eat buffet and a lively social atmosphere. Explore the best Alexandra Park has to offer, but don’t forget to book quickly as these popular nights don’t last long. Tables are selling fast so don’t miss out on the best spots. Go to www.alexandrapark.co.nz to book your tickets or ring 096131165. Ashburton TC Family Farming Day – 14 July The Ashburton Trotting clubs July 14th meeting will host for the second year its Farming family Day at the races. Local racing identity Bruce Taylor and rural advocate an Ashburton TC Clerk of the Course Craig Wiggins have managed to rally a good team of supporters and rural industry sponsors to run this event. An idea Wiggins took to the Ashburton TC after noticing the stress farmers were under with Mycoplasma Bovis and other rural issues during the winter months. Wiggins said: “the Ashburton club got right behind the idea and Bruce with his local connections made it happen,” This year the the event has been ramped up with skydivers jumping in during the day, classic car displays, mini health checks for farmers, sulky races good food, racing and spot prizes for many including those unlucky on the tote and lots of children’s activities. With the Ashburton TC making the amenities available this year and some serious interest being shown on social media they expect another full house. The organisers hope to get a few drivers into the room for some one on one interviews and some punting help for those new to the track, but mostly we hope that farmers and their families just have a really good day off farm and enjoy the atmosphere. Cambridge Raceway News – New Season Launch! You’re invited to a birthday party! Join us to celebrate the brand new racing season and the horse’s birthday! We are holding a special season launch event on Thursday 1 August at Cambridge Raceway in the Skyline Lounge (level 2). Kick off is 5pm, first race 5.21pm. And entry is free! View the full article

Alan Cameron. Leading up to the final of the 2019 Catch Driver Cadet of the Year we will be highlighting the contenders and their involvement in the harness racing industry. Alana Cameron is a member of Matt Purvis’ team and has been a long time participant in the harness racing industry. “I was born into the industry,” she explained. “Mum and Dad have always have horses and bred them, and my grandad was a horse trainer as well.” “I always had an interest in horses but was more into the pony side of things early on. But I started looking more at harness racing when I was about 12, and I started working in the weekends and helping in stables.” “The interest had always been there but I got more into it from then on.” She has fond memories of attending race meetings as a child with her family and also visiting Ray Jenkins stable when he trained horses for her parents. “I remember going out to Ray’s when I was young and sitting in the dust sheet in the cart. I guess I was hooked from then on.” Alana also had an early taste of the thrills harness racing when she had a close association with four win pacer, Waihemo Art, in recent years. And it helped inspire her to follow harness racing as a full time career. “I’ve always wanted to be a driver, it looked like so much fun and the joy of winning and being out there drew me to it. Watching Waihemo Art win as well really got me interested in that side of things,” Alana said. Alana formerly worked for Cran Dalgety and was able to experience Group One victory when a horse she worked with closely won at the Harness Jewels. “I had a lot to do with Pat’s Delight at Cran’s, he was my little baby. I cried when he won at the Jewels, I was a mess. I was so excited. He’s my favourite horse.” In terms of mentors, her time at Cran’s proved valuable also. “When I was working at Cran Dalgety’s, Dexter Dunn was a great mentor. Being able to work with him on the track and get pointers and advice was just awesome. Sam Ottley I always looked up to also, with everything she has achieved and being a leading female driver.” Alana also finds working pleasure with working with the young stock of the industry. She is involved in the yearling preparation and breeding areas and works closely with young stock. “It’s so rewarding seeing horses you have worked with and prepared go on and win races for their new owners,” she said. “I prepared Zeuss Bromac at the sales and then he went on to run second at the Jewels and was Zac Butchers first training winner. Which was really cool. I actually worked with his dam Zeta Bromac at Michael House’s when I was there, so I’ve seen the whole family progress which is hugely rewarding.” “Ideally I would like to carry on with the breeding and yearling side of things going forward. I really enjoy that side of things and working with the young horses.” As a part of the Canterbury cadets, Alana knew she was going to take part in the qualifying heat for the Catch Driver Cadet of the Year competition, but did not hold high hopes to make it to the final. “I was surprised I made it into the Cadet of the Year final to be honest. Last year I had a horse that used to bolt in track work every day so in the time trial I went too slow as I was scared he would bolt on me. But this year I was surprised when Shane Renault told me I was bang on time. I thought he was pulling my leg.” But whilst the time trial driving went well, there were other unique challenges according to Alana. Including those that include memory. “I found the quiz tricky. I can’t even remember what I’ve had for breakfast sometimes so my memory with some things is awful,” she laughed. “I think I’ll do ok across the board in the final in general. But I’m a bit concerned that they will put a cooking challenge in, as Georgie and Nat know that I’m terrible at cooking,” joked Alana. “It’s a huge thrill to be in the final and I’m thankful to be a part of it. I’m really looking forward to the experience.” The 2019 Catch Driver Cadet of the Year final will be held on July 24th, with the winner announced at this year’s annual awards ceremony at Addington Raceway on September 28. We thank the generous sponsorship of the Catch Driver game, which is a free harness racing game available for download from your app store and allows you to drive in live harness racing games with people from around the world. View the full article

Mark Purdon. Mark Purdon is back home and won’t drive two of his stable stars at Albion Park’s Group 1 meeting on Saturday. Instead, he’ll be watching on TV at home and hoping his troublesome eye infection recovers in time to be drive in the Group 1 Queensland Derby a week after. “I certainly wasn’t going to be right this week and your eyes are so important, so I’ve booked other drivers for the two races,” Purdon said. Kylie Rasmussen will drive $1.10 favourite Our Princess Tiffany from an ideal gate four in the $100,000 Group 1 Queensland Oaks and buzz pacer Self Assured (gate 10) in the Group 3 South-East Derby. Luke McCarthy has landed the drive on Jesse Duke (gate five) in that Derby. “The horses are in great hands,” Purdon said. “Tiffany can and should improve on what she did winning last week. She’s drawn well and I’ll be surprised if she doesn’t win again. “I thought Self Assured’s win was enormous last week. I’d lean to him even though he’s drawn the back row in the Derby this week. Jesse Duke has the better draw and I’m sure he’ll run another big race.” Purdon reaffirmed plans for all three of his stars to come together in Saturday week’s Group 1 Queensland Derby. “If Tiffany comes out and wins really well this week then she’ll join the boys in the Derby,” he said. “As for drivers, if I’m ok then I’d drive Tiffany or Self Assured and Kylie (Rasmussen) will drive the other. I’d like to keep Luke (McCarthy) on Jesse Duke.” The big winner from today’s (Tuesday) barrier for the $100,000 Group 1 Sunshine Sprint was local star Colt Thirty One. “Barrier two is great. Draws are so important, especially in sprint races here (Albion Park). It’s a huge help,” Colt Thirty One’s trainer-driver Grant Dixon said. In contrast, recent Group 1 Len Smith Mile winner Majordan was dealt a huge blow with a back row draw (gate nine), negating his blazing gate speed and love of leading. The other key runners are Inter Dominion runner-up Our Uncle Sam (gate four) and classy former Kiwi pacer Cash N Flow (gate six). Colt Thirty One has already been crunched from $2.20 into $1.75 on the Aussie TAB from Majordan ($4), Our Uncle Sam ($5) and Cash N Flow ($9). View the full article

Conqueror as a yearling at Karaka. Million-dollar Karaka yearling, Conqueror, broke maiden ranks in impressive fashion when demolishing his rivals by seven lengths over 1400m at Pakenham on Tuesday for the Lindsay Park team of David and Ben Hayes and Tom Dabernig. The two-year-old colt by Fastnet Rock out of Group One winning Savabeel mare Diademe sports the navy blue colours of Coolmore who race the colt in conjunction with some high-profile partners. Sent out a $1.45 favourite, Conqueror comfortably found the lead in the hands of Luke Nolan and put a break on his rivals in the straight. “He ran to his odds,” Ben Hayes said. “It was a very, very impressive win. He did everything right. He extended right through the line and we really think he is a horse that will be competing in the big races in the spring. It was really exciting to see him do that.” Hayes said the Gr.1 Caulfield Guineas (1600m) was on the colt’s radar, with Conqueror now boasting a win and a runner-up placing from three starts at two. Conqueror (centre) pictured at trackwork at Flemington Darryl Sherer. “The way he won today was pretty impressive. We will probably back off him a bit. I think there is a race (3YO BM 70, 1400m) at Flemington on August 10 that he will head to and from there we will build,” Hayes said. “I wouldn’t say he is an amazing worker at home. He can be a bit lazy and it has been hard to get a real guide, but you love it when they come to the races and race like that. “My Dad’s best horse was lazy, Better Loosen Up. “He has given us glimpses of his brilliance at home and we saw it today.” Conqueror was sold by Gordon Cunningham’s Curraghmore at the Book 1 session of the 2018 New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale for $1 million. Bloodstock agent Mark Pilkington, who had previously tasted success with Fastnet Rock’s dual hemisphere Group One winner Merchant Navy, signed the docket in conjunction with Lindsay Park Racing. View the full article

Delacroix. The connections of North Canterbury jumper Delacroix have heeded the advice of Cambridge jumps jockey Shaun Phelan in his build-up to a couple of major missions this winter. Delacroix won over 4280m in a restricted open steeplechase at Timaru in June by 11 and a half lengths when reunited with Phelan and purposely bypassed a trip south later in the month for a similar event at Wingatui. “Shaun said don’t go down to Dunedin as it would be too heavy for him so we’ve waited for Timaru again,” co-trainer Karen Parsons said. “He’ll run there on Friday then be aimed for the Grand National and maybe the Great Northern.” The Grand National Steeplechase (5600m) is at Riccarton on August 10, a month before the Great Northern Steeplechase (6400m) at Ellerslie. A winner of six races on the flat and five over hurdles, Delacroix has shown much promise over country with three wins, three seconds and two thirds from 10 starts. He finished seventh in last year’s Grand National Steeplechase when still a maiden ‘chaser and Phelan has been aboard in two of his steeplechase wins. After originally being raced by Kevin Hickman, Delacroix now races in the interests of co-trainer John Parsons and former top jumps jockey Tommy Hazlett, whose feature wins included the 2006 Grand National Steeplechase on Bogeyman. View the full article

Road to Rock will stand at $5,000 +GST Wellfield Lodge is encouraging broodmare owners to ‘breed with confidence’ this year after announcing their stallion fees for the upcoming season. The Manawatu farm will stand each of their three resident stallions Alamosa, Road to Rock and Vespa, at $5000+GST. As an added bonus, the farm are offering any breeder that sends two mares to the same stallion an additional incentive. When two mares owned by the same entity are sent to the same stallion, the first mare in foal will be at a cost of $5,000 +GST, and the second mare in foal will be free. “We believe this offer represents outstanding value and has been offered to encourage breeders to consider breeding their mares at an affordable level,” Wellfield Lodge principal Bill Gleeson said. Four-time Group One winner Alamosa has established himself as a proven sire, his leading performer of the season was On The Rocks who won the Gr.2 Rich Hill Mile (1600m) before taking out the Gr.1 Herbie Dyke (2000m) two starts later. Road To Rock has had a standout season due to his best performer, Hong Kong champion Beauty Generation. The seven-time Group One winner is currently the world’s highest rated active racehorse, and the highest earner in history to have raced in Hong Kong. Rounding out the stallion trio is champion two-year-old of his year Vespa. His oldest crop is rising two and with positive reports coming through from trainers, Wellfield Lodge are eagerly anticipating their arrival at the racetrack in the 2019-20 season. View the full article

Hong Kong racing will offer record prizemoney of HK$1.3 billion (NZ$246.5 million) for the 2019/20 season. Lucrative increases to FWD Champions Day’s three Group One races and the BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) feature among the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s upward adjustments revealed today, Tuesday, 9 July. The FWD Champions Day fixture has proven to be a huge success in two editions so far. In keeping with its world class status, the Gr.1 FWD Queen Elizabeth II Cup (2000m) has received a HK$1 million boost and will be worth HK$25 million (NZ$4.74 million) in 2020; the Gr.1 FWD Champions Mile (1600m) is up HK$2 million to HK$20 million (NZ$3.79 million); and the Gr.1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m) is worth HK$18 million (NZ$3.41 million), an increase of HK$2 million. The historic BMW Hong Kong Derby is Hong Kong’s most important domestic contest and will be worth HK$20 million (NZ$ 3.79 million, a HK$2 million increase on the 2019 renewal. Total prizemoney for the 2019/20 season’s 88 meetings at Sha Tin and Happy Valley is up by 6.5 percent on the 2018/19 season. The purse increases span all handicap races from Class 1 down to Class 5. “Our owners invest heavily to bring high-quality horses to Hong Kong, which underpins our world-class racing,” said Andrew Harding, Executive Director, Racing, at the Hong Kong Jockey Club. “It is important that they are rewarded for their investments and this is reflected in the rises across our five classes of handicap races and the Derby. The BMW Hong Kong Derby is the race every Hong Kong owner wants to win. They scour the world looking to buy the right horse, their costs are rising in a competitive bloodstock market and it is vital that we offer generous incentives. Our purse increases, including the Derby’s new HK$20 million prize fund, are calibrated to recognise this.” New Zealand-bred gallopers have enjoyed another fine season in Hong Kong, winning more black-type races (13) than any other nation. New Zealand-bred horses have won 25.8 percent of races in Hong Kong this season from a supply of 23.5 percent of runners. Additionally, six of the past 10 Hong Kong Derby winners are New Zealand-bred, including this year’s winner Furore. View the full article

Hiflyer. Trainer Peter Lock has resisted the temptation to bring talented galloper Hiflyer back into work. The Group One performer is currently spelling after suffering a back injury. “He had a pulled muscle over his back and he is right now,” Lock said. “The vets had a look at him and said he could probably come into work now but I am going to give him a good break and let him strengthen. “He has done extremely well on his break and they have done a great job at the place where he is.” Hiflyer had six starts during the 2018-19 season with his best performance being a runner-up finish behind Melody Belle in the Gr.1 Tarzino Trophy (1400m). The six-year-old son of Tavistock races in the colours of breeders and co-owners Sir Patrick and Lady Justine Hogan and has won nine of his 29 starts, with a further 10 placings. View the full article

Emily Margaret winning the Gr.2 Wellington Guineas (1400m) Riccarton trainers Pam and Kevin Hughes are looking forward to welcoming stable star Emily Margaret back into the team next month after her bone-chip operation. A decisive winner of the New Zealand Bloodstock Southern Filly of the Year title, Emily Margaret was sent to Cambridge for surgery after ending her three-year-old campaign with a second behind Secret Allure in the Listed New Zealand Bloodstock Airfreight Stakes (1600m) at Riccarton in early April. “She went up to the Cambridge Equine Clinic and had chips taken out of both knees,” Pam Hughes said. “She’d had them for a while so it goes to show what a tough wee unit she is. “They said the operation has been 100 percent successful. She has been recovering at Maara Grange in Cambridge and has started working on the treadmill. She’s due back down with us in mid-August.” A daughter of Pins, Emily Margaret has recorded four wins and six placings from 13 starts with all her wins coming this season, in which she contested three of the four legs of the New Zealand Bloodstock Southern Filly of the Year series. She won the first two legs, the Listed New Zealand Bloodstock Canterbury Belle Stakes (1200m) at Riccarton last September and the Listed New Zealand Bloodstock Insurance Stakes (1400m) at Wingatui on March 2, and before her series second in the Airfreight Stakes she headed north and beat some smart northerners when winning the Gr.2 Wellington Guineas (1400m) at Trentham. Her huge Wellington Guineas performance was a boost to her profile when defeating Vigor Winner and Dawn Patrol. Vigor Winner went on next start to deadheat for first in the Gr.3 Cambridge Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) at Te Rapa, while Dawn Patrol had been runner-up to Madison County in the Gr.1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton. Emily Margaret earned a crack at the Gr.1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton last November when a creditable seventh to Media Sensation and, all going well, she will be back at the New Zealand Cup meeting this year with her mission being the Gr.3 Stewards Handicap (1200m) on November 13. “We’ll obviously space her races and the aim is to have her ready for the Stewards,” Hughes said. “She’s pretty fast and her pet distance is up to 1400m so she should be ideally suited.” Emily Margaret has speed in her pedigree as she is from the O’Reilly mare Seven Schillings, who was the top filly on the 2008-09 New Zealand 2YO Free Handicap after winning the Gr.3 Taranaki 2YO Classic (1200m) and runner-up in the Gr.1 Diamond Stakes (1200m) at Ellerslie. While Emily Margaret is progressing well, Albut Me, one of the 10 horses the Riccarton couple have in work, is being set for a tilt at the Gr.3 Winning Edge Presentations Winter Cup (1600m) at Riccarton on August 3. The four-year-old son of Align has recorded three wins and six placings from 18 starts, but is well down the list with a rating of 74 for the Winter Cup. “He’ll go to Timaru on the 26th (July) for a rating 72 1600m and our apprentice Sanu Toolooa will ride him,” Hughes said. “Hopefully he’ll pick up enough points there for the Winter Cup. “We’ll freshen him up after Timaru. He’s easy to freshen and he goes on any sort of ground.” Albut Me’s recent form has been franked by Sitarist, John and Karen Parsons’ open 2200m winner at Ashburton last week. Sitarist beat Albut Me at Riccarton on May 31 then the tables were turned when Toolooa guided Albut Me to victory over Sitarist on the same track last month. Meanwhile, five-race winner Nakyama will spearhead the stable’s interest at the Timaru meeting on Friday when contesting the rating 82 1200m. “He’s just waiting for the rain,” Hughes said. “We keep running him to have him fit enough when he gets it. But it doesn’t look like enough is coming yet.” View the full article

Group One-winning filly Media Sensation. Byerley Park trainers Peter and Dawn Williams had a memorable season with several quality fillies and they are hoping they can continue that form into the new season. The Gerry Harvey-owned two-year-old Rendition struck her trainers as more of a three-year-old type, but the daughter of Pierro pleasantly surprised them with a string of placings, including a third in the Listed Champagne Stakes (1600m) at Ellerslie in April. “She’s had a good season,” Peter Williams said. “We have always thought she would be a better three-year-old, but she has done a good job as a two-year-old. We will just press on now to the new season.” While the Williams’ have had plenty of success in the spring with their three-year-old fillies, they are eying summer and autumn targets with Rendition. “She is back in work now and looks great, so hopefully everything will be right with her,” Williams said. “She won’t be produced too early in the season, we are aiming her more towards Christmas time and the (New Zealand) Oaks (Gr.1, 2400m).” They tasted minor success in this year’s running of the Oaks, with Camelot filly Star Karen finishing third. Williams was pleased with the result and said an Australian spring campaign could be on the cards for the rising four-year-old mare. “She’s back in work now and we are happy with her,” he said. “If she comes up she might go to Australia for some of the Australian staying mares races. We will see what happens, but if she comes up alright, that is what her aim is.” Another stable runner that Williams is excited to see return to the track is Group One-winning filly Media Sensation. The $425,000 Karaka yearling sale purchase struck early in her three-year-old season, winning three of her first four starts, including the Gr.3 Soliloquy Stakes (1400m) and Gr.1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m). “She won a Group One and has had a great season, I’m very happy with her,” Williams said. He is pleased with the way the Sarah Green and Ger Beemsterboer-owned filly has returned from her spell and is eyeing some elite-level sprints with the classy daughter of I Am Invincible. “She’s back in the stables now and is working along quietly, she looks great,” he said. “She has grown and strengthened, so we’ll just see what happens. “We’ll just bring her up quietly and she will be aimed at some of the better sprints around the country.” Green and Beemsterboer purchased Media Sensation as a yearling on the advice of their trainers, and they are hoping their two acquisitions from Karaka in January can follow in the same steps. They went to $220,000 to secure a So You Think filly out of Jamieson Park’s draft, while they purchased a Savabeel filly out of Waikato Stud’s draft for $525,000. Williams is happy with the progress of both yearlings and believes the Savabeel filly could make a late juvenile. “They have been broken in and turned out and they are just back in doing a bit of quiet work through the winter, just keeping them warm,” he said. “They will probably be produced around Christmas time. “The So You Think is probably more of a three-year-old, but the Savabeel filly looks like she could make a late two-year-old.” While the Williams’ could be in for an exciting season in the new term, their attention is firmly focused on Avondale on Wednesday where they will line-up six runners. Williams has highlighted three-year-old filly Frozen as the stable’s best chance of the day in the Mulholland For A stronger Voice (1400m) after her pleasing runner-up performance over 1200m on debut at Counties last month. “She is working well, we are happy with her. She went well in her first start, so provided that she handles the track (she should go well),” he said. “This time of year all the wet tracks are different. Some are loose, some are puggy. It’s whether they can handle it. “You can’t condemn many horses at this time of year if they don’t handle the wet tracks. “We will see how she races tomorrow and then we will see what happens. There is plenty of time for her.” View the full article

View the full article

Rule Number(s): 870(3), 1003(2) and the breaking horse regulationsMr Renault alleged that horse 10, KING CASSIDY, in race 6 the RICOH HANDICAP TROT, paced for the final 60 metres. He sought the disqualification of the horse pursuant to r 1003(2). Judge’s placings were: 1st 8 IMRAN KHAN 2nd 10 KING CASSIDY 3RD 5 SCARLETT LANE 4TH 6 DUSKY EYRE 5TH 1 BONO HEST 6TH 4 MISS ...View the full article

Rule Number(s): 869(2) and Use of the Whip RegulationsFollowing the running of Race 1, the Midwinter Xmas Buffet Trot, an information was filed by Stipendiary Steward, Mr Renault, alleging that Mr Buchan the driver of BE BEE LASS used his whip on more occasions than is permitted by the Use of the Whip regulations. Rule 869 provides as follows: (2) No horseman ...View the full article

Rule Number(s): 330(3)(b)Prior to the running of Race 8 Information No.A12281 was filed with the Judicial Committee. It was alleged by the Informant that Mr Turner had been engaged for two runners in Race 8 (James & Son 1550) the horses being TIME BOMB (Trainer Mrs J Miller) and FOILING (Trainer Mr A Sharrock). Rule 330(3)(b) ...View the full article