Wandering Eyes

Del Mar's 'Ship and Win' program will return for its 16th year when racing returns to the seaside oval July 17 and will help boost purses for 2-year-old maiden special weight races to record levels. The 'Ship and Win' program provides $5,000 for any qualified dirt runner in their first local outing. The 50% purse bonus is applied to the first through fifth finishers in their initial start and all subsequent outings at the meet. For turf runners, there is a $4,000 payment for that first start, as well as a 40% bonus attached to the purses of the first through fifth runners. The juvenile maiden special weight races for dirt runners offered this year will reach new heights when they include 'Ship and Win' runners who will compete for record purses of $150,000 thanks to the 50% purse bonus. “'Ship and Win' has been an extremely successful program for Del Mar and California racing overall,” said Del Mar senior vice president and racing secretary David Jerkens. “Our owners and trainers continue to take advantage of this powerful economic boost. And this year we're proud to offer $100,000 straight maiden purses for dirt 2-year-olds that can rise to $150,000 with the 'Ship and Win' bonus.” For more information on the 'Ship and Win' program, visit: www.dmtc.com/horsemen/ship-and-win. The post Ship and Win, Record MSW Purses, on Tap for Del Mar Summer Meet appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Former jockey Frankie Dettori has had his bankruptcy extended until March 16, 2027, after a judge at a specialist insolvency court ruled his bankruptcy should not be automatically discharged. The Italian formally retired from the saddle last month. At a hearing in London on Thursday, lawyers for the two trustees of Dettori's bankruptcy asked for the order to remain in place for a further year. Stefan Ramel, representing the trustees, told the court that the former jockey “has not complied and is still not complying” with requests for information about his assets, including whether he owns properties abroad. Dettori and his representatives were not present at the hearing. Chief insolvency and companies court judge Nicholas Briggs ruled that the bankruptcy order could continue until March 16 2027, which he said was “not an unrealistic period” given the “blatant failure” by Dettori to provide information when asked. He said, “There is much to uncover in this bankruptcy, and it may well be that criminal sanctions will be a useful tool for the trustees.” The judge said that the trustees interviewed Dettori in December last year about his assets, and when asked if he had ever owned properties abroad, he “said he did not”. But he said it was later discovered that there were “a number of properties that had not been disclosed to the trustees, in particular in France and Italy”. Judge Briggs continued that there were “other concerns”, including a Piaget watch, a wine collection worth around £70,000 and investments worth around £365,000. He also said that Dettori could have attended court to make representations as to why an order should have been made, or instructed lawyers, but has “failed to do so”. The Italian filed for bankruptcy in March last year due to unpaid tax resulting from his involvement in a “tax avoidance scheme”. At the time, Dettori had said he was “saddened and embarrassed” to have to take the measure after being left to “unravel the mess” in which a previous financial adviser left him. Dettori brought the curtain down on his U.S. riding stint after the Breeders' Cup last autumn, but continued riding in South America before riding his final races last month. In late October, Dettori was named Amo Racing's global brand ambassador. The post Frankie Dettori’s Bankruptcy Extended For Another Year By Judge appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Everett Dobson, chairman of The Jockey Club, pledged to collaborate with horsemen to find solutions to racing's many challenges and ways to grow the sport while delivering the keynote address at the National Horsemen's Benevolent & Protective Association Conference at Oaklawn Park Wednesday. Dobson acknowledged some of the divisions between The Jockey Club and the National HBPA, including The Jockey Club's support of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority, the constitutionality of which the National HBPA is challenging in court. But Dobson stressed the common goals shared by the two organizations. “Our first allegiance is to the horse,” Dobson said. “As I look around this room and look at the mission statement and position statements of the National HBPA, it's apparent that when it comes to the horse, we are as closely aligned as two organizations could possibly be. The improvement this sport has made in the health and safety of the Thoroughbred racehorse is, I believe, the single-most important thing I've seen in my now 30 years of involvement. “I am also of the belief that credit for that should be spread far and wide, and especially to the great horsemen and women that make up the National HBPA. You are the ones putting your hands on the horse, providing for the care and nutrition needs for every single horse, every single day.” In 2021, The Jockey Club proposed capping the number of mares that a stallion could breed to in a year at 140, but the proposal prompted a lawsuit from three of Kentucky's largest stud farms and The Jockey Club dropped the controversial rule change. During his address Wednesday, Dobson said he is prepared to take another run at the rule, but with a different approach. “As we think about the health of the Thoroughbred breed, we must not ignore the alarming increase of the coefficient of inbreeding,” he said. “Years ago, The Jockey Club attempted to impose a cap on the number of mares a stallion could breed. Under my leadership, we're going to revisit that question. This time, we will involve stallion farms and other breed registries around the world to help us find the solution. Our discussions must be science-based with an understanding of the economic realities of the world we live in.” Dobson said that when he was tabbed to replace retiring chairman Stuart Janney, he met individually with all The Jockey Club board members and stewards. “I'm going to tell you what I told them,” he said. “I think big; I guess I always have. I founded this cellular telephone business when I was in my 20s that became one of the largest in the country. When I started out, I wasn't thinking, 'Oh gee, let's make this a nice little Oklahoma business.' Quite the contrary. When I joined the seven others to purchase what is now the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2006, we didn't sit around and discuss the keys to being the operators. No, we discussed what a pathway would look like to a world championship–and it didn't hurt that we had two Arkansas Razorbacks on the team to do it.” Listing some of his goals for The Jockey Club, Dobson said the organization would back a national marketing campaign that builds on The Jockey Club's America's Best Racing initiative; continue to push for legislation that would permanently ban horse slaughter and the export for slaughter of horses abroad; substantially increase its funding for the aftercare of retired racehorses; and continue to support the traceability initiative to track horses throughout their post-track lives. Dobson said the industry needs a permanent endowment or endowments “of significant size that will provide a level of certainty for every horse that showcases their talent for our entertainment.” He noted that The Jockey Club already has the Grayson-Jockey Club Foundation, which for decades has funded research to improve the health of the horse, as well as The Jockey Club Safety Net Foundation, which helps those in need who work in the industry. Beyond the traditional metrics of foal crop, race days, field size, attendance on racing's big days, Dobson said, “I want this industry to also be one of job growth. We need young people to consider this sport as a viable career.” Dobson said a positive trend is that major capital projects aren't restricted to high-profile tracks such as Churchill Downs, Keeneland and Belmont Park, but underway at smaller tracks in Nebraska, Wyoming, Arizona and Kansas. “Thinking big means we don't ignore the smaller markets,” he said. “Without a doubt, this influx of capital will produce some level of growth.” Dobson said one of the most challenging metrics is the foal crop in regional markets. He said he is convinced that “states are going to have to broaden their breeding and racing programs in partnership with surrounding states. Fortunately, I'm hearing that there are meaningful conversations underway.” But, he continued, “Nothing big in the sport will happen if we can't improve fan engagement…. We can reach new fans. I've seen it in the NBA.” While there is incredible fan engagement in pockets around the country such as Oaklawn, Keeneland, Saratoga and Del Mar, Dobson said “our mission is to expand that reach by looking at what is successful and develop that relationship with new and younger fans on a continuous basis. “… I have become a big advocate for a national marketing campaign, one that will focus on messaging that elevates this sport in the eyes of the general public. A few years ago, The Jockey Club launched America's Best Racing, through which we had an influencer program last year that was a huge success. That program will be expanded this year and play a key role in a more comprehensive national marketing campaign. Broadly speaking, we are in an entertainment business. We compete with other sports and other forms of gaming, but we have an amazing story to tell. It's time to start talking.” At the heart of progress is working together, he said. “Sports and sports leagues function best when there is collaboration toward the common goal,” Dobson said. “My belief is that horse racing can raise to a far higher level of participation and fan engagement. For that to happen, we need collaboration and unification…. For this sport to move forward, it will take a team: the horsemen and women that rise before dawn, the track operators that are reinvesting in their infrastructure, the breeders who take long-term risk, the bettors who support us every day, those that buy our yearlings and 2-year-olds at the sales. It will take all of the industry organizations working together, and it will take those organizations working with HISA, and HISA working with us. If we are serious about thinking big–truly big–our future…will be built at the big table. Tables where we check our egos at the door, where we debate vigorously, disagree honestly, but being aligned around the common purpose. “Can we elevate this sport to a level that hasn't been seen in a generation? I believe we can, with commitment, collaboration, integrity, unification and a big dose of big ambition. I am standing before you because I believe the best days of Thoroughbred racing are not behind us. They are in front of us.” To view the complete address, click here. The post Dobson Calls for Collaboration in HBPA Conference Address appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Group 1 winner Whistlejacket has had his first mares scanned in foal. The son of No Nay Never, who stands at Haras de Grandcamp, commands €14,000 this year. The Prix Morny hero has multiple stakes-placed Epson Blu Cen (Blue Point) in foal, as well as Flame Of Fame (Shakespearean), the dam of stakes winner Feel Your Power (Captain Marvelous). Another mare in foal to the chestnut is U.S. stakes winner Barleysugar (Kyllachy), the dam of stakes performer Lord Wootton Cen (Wootton Bassett). Eric Lhermite said, “We are very pleased with the book of mares that Whistlejacket will cover in his first season. Around thirty black-type mares or mares that have already produced black-type performers have been entrusted to him. The horse has adapted very well to his new role as a stallion and quickly settled into life at the stud.” Whistlejacket was also placed in the G1 Phoenix Stakes and G1 Middle Park Stakes and won the G2 July Stakes. The post First Mares In Foal To Whistlejacket appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Dedicated National Hunt social media channels across Instagram, X, TikTok and Facebook were launched by Coolmore on Thursday. As the cornerstone of Coolmore's heritage since the 1850s, these new channels will be the primary hub for Coolmore National Hunt news, race results, stallion updates, and sales information; as well as being an exclusive window into the daily operations at Coolmore's National Hunt bases of Grange Stud, Castlehyde, and The Beeches Stud. The launch reflects Coolmore's deep-rooted pride in National Hunt racing and its commitment to supporting the sector at every level – from the grassroots of point-to-pointing to the pinnacle of the season's major festivals. “National Hunt racing and breeding have always been a fundamental part of Coolmore's story,” said Catherine Magnier. “We are immensely proud of our long association with the breeders, owners, and trainers who form the backbone of this industry. We want to better highlight the achievements of the breeders we work with and share the day-to-day life of our National Hunt stallions in a way that reflects the passion and commitment that drive everything we do.” Follow Coolmore National Hunt on Instagram, X, TikTok, and Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and behind-the-scenes content from across our farms. The new accounts are: Instagram: @coolmorenationalhunt X: @CoolmoreNH TikTok: CoolmoreNationalHunt Facebook: Coolmore National Hunt The post Coolmore NH Social Media Channels Launched appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

After their success last week in the Fountain of Youth Stakes (G2) with Commandment at Gulfstream Park, trainer Brad Cox and jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. take aim at another prize with Spendthrift Farm's Further Ado in the March 7 Tampa Bay Derby (G3).View the full article

In this continuing series, TDN's Senior Racing Editor Steve Sherack catches up with the connections of promising maidens to keep on your radar. Gilded Bandit (c, 3, Charlatan–Diamond Ore, by Tapit) had plenty of steam behind him ahead of his debut on the stacked Coolmore Fountain of Youth program at Gulfstream Park Feb. 28. He fired back-to-back bullet drills at Bill Mott's Payson Park base, including a four-furlong move in :48 (1/53) Feb. 20, and was well-supported as the 3-1 second-choice off a 10-1 morning-line quote in a deep six-furlong maiden special weight. The Pin Oak Stud newcomer was quickly outfooted from his wide draw, however, and only had one beaten in ninth through an opening quarter in :22.34. He re-entered the picture in sixth as the race's eventual winner Lincoln's Law (Liam's Map), a half-brother to MGISW Chancer McPatrick (McKinzie), and favored runner-up Quentin B (Promises Fulfilled) continued to do battle up front passing the quarter pole. Guided to the inside by Junior Alvarado for the stretch run, Gilded Bandit came home fastest of all (clocked in splits of :11.75 and :12.40) to finish a promising fourth, beaten 3 1/4 lengths, in a race dominated on the front end. The final time for six furlongs was 1:10.44 over the fast going. Gilded Bandit earned a respectable 76 Beyer Speed Figure for the effort. LINCOLN'S LAW ($15.60), 1/2 brother to MG1W Chancer McPatrick, looks spectacular on debut in the 2nd at @GulfstreamPark. @luissaezpty was up on the son of @LanesEndFarms' Map for trainer Phil Bauer and owner Rigney Racing. Play the next: https://t.co/yZK3pc779S pic.twitter.com/wfo4BBeGrH — FanDuel Racing (@FanDuel_Racing) February 28, 2026 “We were very pleased with his debut,” said Michael Hardy, Pin Oak Stud's Director of Farm Operations. “We are hopeful that he will improve from the experience and graduate next time out. After that, we can start to consider options for the remainder of the year.” Hailing from the first crop of 2020 GI Arkansas Derby and GI Malibu S. winner and 2021 G1 Saudi Cup runner-up Charlatan, Gilded Bandit brought $550,000 from Pin Oak Stud as a Fasig-Tipton Saratoga yearling. Bred in Kentucky by Taylor Made Stallions Inc., Brunacini Stables, Clearview Stable LLC, et al, the chestnut was produced by the stakes-placed mare Diamond Ore, a half-sister to the gone-too-soon Hall of Famer Arrogate (Unbridled's Song). Diamond Ore RNA'd for $745,000 carrying Gilded Bandit at the 2022 Fasig-Tipton November sale. Gilded Bandit's fourth dam Meadow Star was the champion 2-year-old filly of 1990. Since launching 'Second Chances' in 2017, 78 maidens have been featured in these pages (through 2025), producing 22% graded stakes winners, 31% stakes winners and 45% stakes horses. The series has introduced eight future winners at the top level, led by 2025 Horse of the Year and dual Classic winner Sovereignty (Into Mischief), 2023 Horse of the Year Cody's Wish (Curlin) and fellow two-time Breeders' Cup winner Golden Pal (Uncle Mo). Last Saturday's GII Coolmore Fountain of Youth S. winner Commandment (Into Mischief) was profiled in 'Second Chances' following a debut fourth at Keeneland last fall. The post Second Chances: A Rallying Fourth on Debut, Gilded Bandit ‘Will Improve From the Experience’ appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Growing up, Rebecca Thompson West found herself fully immersed in the agriculture industry, from taking care of her mother's retired show horses to later joining the Future Farmers of America (FFA). Through these experiences, she developed an appreciation for working hands-on and developed a skillset that would serve her long-term. However, when it came time for West to head off to college, she felt an opportunity had revealed itself to break the mold from a life she'd always known and branch out on a new path. Attending West Virginia University (WVU), she spent two years pursuing a degree in biology before coming to the realization that a life spent in the company of horses, based in the agriculture industry, had been the best fit all along. “I was trying to break the idea of 'I grew up doing it, I have to keep doing it,' but I couldn't ignore my passions. After a break year, I came back to school and when I took my first equine class, I thought, 'I have finally found my niche.' From there, I dove in headfirst,” said West. In May of 2023, West graduated with a degree in Agribusiness Management, accompanied by a minor in Equine Science, and worked throughout the summer at WVU's equine studies farm. It was during this time that West was introduced to Amplify's mentorship program, which piqued her interest as an opportunity to expand her professional network in the horse industry while learning more about potential paths. Not longer after applying, West was accepted and paired with Anne Litz, working at the time as the Field Marketing Specialist for the Maryland Horse Industry Board (MHIB). “Growing up in the Thoroughbred racing and breeding industry, I had an outlet to be involved and to work within that industry, so I've always respected it. However, I know there are barriers to entering it,” explained Litz. “When Amplify started this program and reached out to me, even though I wasn't working directly in racing, I saw it as a chance to connect with people that wanted to be a part of the industry and support it from the inside.” The format of Amplify's mentorship program, a three-month hybrid experience which makes long-distance mentorships possible through the flexibility of meeting virtually or in-person, afforded West an opportunity to get involved in something unlike anything to which she had had access previously. Before being accepted into the program, West's horse experience had given her access to the animals she loved, but didn't necessarily offer any upward mobility in terms of long-term career potential. She was not only ready to apply what she had already learned to a more advanced experience, but also grow her abilities beyond the collegiate level. “The Thoroughbred industry and racing in general are something I've always been interested in, but didn't have the inside knowledge to get more involved. While in college and thinking about what I wanted to do for the rest of my life, I considered the Kentucky Equine Management Internship [KEMI] program, but that's six months and it's not free,” said West. “I appreciate Amplify's goal of improving access to, not even just the Thoroughbred industry, but the horse industry in general. So many people know about the Triple Crown, but they don't know what goes into the industry itself.” Anne Litz and Rebecca Thompson West | courtesy Rebecca Thompson West Staying in touch through Zoom and FaceTime calls, Litz and West developed a progressive mentor-mentee relationship built upon a foundation of question-and-answer sessions, discussions, and take-home projects that culminated in a day spent together at the Fasig-Tipton Midlantic Fall Yearlings Sale in Timonium, Maryland. “Each call we had, we would dive into more specific parts of the industry Rebecca was interested in. I would give her things to look into, sales to watch and events to look out for, and each time she would come back more immersed in the industry, with even better questions each time,” said Litz. The experience also opened West's eyes to the expansiveness of the equine industry and the opportunities within the state of Maryland. “With most of my equine education coming from college, it was really nice to see how Maryland made such an effort with their horse industry. It inspired me to see that they have their own Horse Industry Board, along with the Maryland Horse Library and Education Center,” said West. “I enjoyed learning about the sales, witnessing the back-end of things and seeing the numbers behind it all. Maybe in the future I could pursue a career in Thoroughbred sales.” Following her time in Amplify's mentorship program, West relocated to Mississippi to support her husband, a member of the military, as he attended tech school. When it came time for him to submit a request for the location of his first duty station, West's husband posed the question to her and the answer was simple: Maryland. Things have come full circle for West, who now works full-time in the horse industry as the Office Manager and Assistant Barn Manager at historic Meadowbrook Stables in Chevy Chase, Maryland. “All you can do is benefit from Amplify's mentorship program. You'll gain knowledge and make those connections, not just in the Thoroughbred industry, but within the entire horse industry. Then, you can utilize those connections to branch out,” said West. For Litz, who is now the Executive Director of the MHIB, nothing has been more rewarding than watching West come into her own within the industry. “Rebecca has really developed into a wonderful leader and teammate in the horse industry. I'm just so impressed with how much she's accomplished,” said Litz. “I credit the Amplify team with how willing they were to have me take on a mentee and explore other aspects of the horse industry, outside of racing. Being able to teach my mentee how it all works together is very forward-thinking, not only in our state, but in the country as well.” West's love of horses inspired her to build the foundation for a potential career, but it was Amplify's mentorship program, and her mentor, that opened the door to reveal the opportunities to make that dream a reality. It's something West is now passing on in her current role. “I love seeing the kids that are serious and dedicated to it. They're the ones that give me hope for the horse industry. I pour my heart, time and effort into them, trying very hard to provide them with information to create that pathway if they're interested in working with horses,” said West. “We wouldn't all be here if we didn't love horses and I'm just trying to make sure that there is another generation to come.” Tomorrow's Front Runners is a TDN series spotlighting young people who got involved with horse racing through Amplify Horse Racing and are now pursuing careers in the industry. Amplify is a 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to amplifying education, mentorship and career opportunities for young people in the Thoroughbred industry. The post Tomorrow’s Front Runners: Amplify Opens Door for West to Pursue Passion Professionally appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) has agreed funding of £10.5m in grants to support a wide range of projects and initiatives across British racing in 2026. This funding is in addition to the £97.7m already announced for prize money and the regulation and integrity of the sport. The non-fixture grant area supports a significant number of areas including the promotion of racing, people training, welfare and development initiatives, thoroughbred health, horse welfare and aftercare. HBLB runs annual funding rounds to support non-fixture related grant initiatives. Since 2000, £101.5m has been invested in these areas, including £44.3m for Industry People, Training and Recruitment, £22.6m for Marketing and Promotion, and £6.8m to support Point-to-Point Racing. Alan Delmonte, Chief Executive of HBLB, said: “Levy funding underpins a very substantial range of important activities across the sport, covering widespread projects to benefit the sport's promotion, its horses and its people. The Board is pleased to have been able to continue this significant investment and extend it into new areas for 2026.” The post Horserace Betting Levy Board Confirms £10.5m in Non-Fixture Related Grant Funding in 2026 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

He won’t be at Flemington this Saturday, but star miler Mr Brightside (NZ) (Bullbars) is close to beginning his build up towards a racetrack return. Lindsay Park ruled the eight-year-old out of this year’s Autumn Carnival when they discovered a small chip in Mr Brightside’s left fore fetlock last December. Mr Brightside has contested the past four editions of the All-Star Mile, winning it in 2023 before finishing second the past two years. “He’s in great order,” said Ben Hayes, who trains Mr Brightside in partnership with his brothers Will and JD. “He is in the paddock currently and he’s just coming in now to get back on the water walker because we don’t want him to put on too much weight, he’s a very good doer. “He’s come through the surgery excellently, he looks a million dollars, and we look forward to seeing him in the spring.” Despite the absence of Mr Brightside, the Hayes brothers will take a strong team of 11 runners to Flemington on Saturday, highlighted by Evaporate (NZ) (Per Incanto) in the G1 All-Star Mile and War Machine (NZ) (Harry Angel) in the G1 Newmarket Handicap. “I thought his first-up run was very good,” Hayes said of Evaporate. “He wasn’t beaten very far, he’s a horse that generally improves into his preps, which he’s shown. He’s got barrier eight, so we’ve got to work out if we’re rolling forward or we’re slotting in yet, I haven’t really had a good chat to Luke (Currie), but I could not fault the horse, we’re really happy with him and think he’ll run a nice, competitive race.” Evaporate is at $16 with Sportsbet for the All-Star Mile. Hayes also believes that Stradbroke Handicap winner War Machine can bounce back to form in the Newmarket Handicap. “After his below par run at Pakenham, we freshened him up deliberately and were looking to target the Newmarket,” he said. “He’s had two jumpouts into it, and I thought his last jumpout in particular down the straight was very good, he was so strong through the line. He’s got a good straight record, one from one and I think it’s a track that really suits him. “He’s tightened up again and it wouldn’t surprise me if he can really shake the race as a genuine top three chance.” War Machine is at $12 for the Newmarket Handicap with Sportsbet. View the full article

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has confirmed the permanent appointment of Brant Dunshea as Chief Executive Officer. Dunshea has been leading the BHA in an acting capacity since December 2024 following the departure of Julie Harrington. He has held several senior positions at British racing's governing and regulatory body since joining the organisation in March 2015, most recently as Chief Regulatory Officer prior to being appointed acting CEO. The BHA board has also approved the appointment of David Jones as Interim Chair. This follows the resignation of Lord Charles Allen on Tuesday 3 March. Jones assumes the role for a second time, having previously filled the position between Joe Saumarez Smith stepping down in January 2025 and Lord Allen formally joining the BHA in September of the same year. He was appointed to the BHA Board in January 2021 as Senior Independent Director, with extensive experience of British racing and the regulation of the sport, including as a BHA steward for more than a decade. Dunshea commented, “I am delighted to be appointed Chief Executive Officer of the BHA. It is no secret that the sport has experienced a challenging period as it faces up to the process of change at a governance level, but I want to be clear that this has not stopped the BHA and the industry making important progress to safeguard the long-term health of British racing. “The past year has seen growth in racecourse attendances, the success of the Axe The Racing Tax campaign, major initiatives to ensure more horses are raced and retained on our shores and continued improvements in horse and human welfare.” He added, “I know that the incredible team at the BHA shares my deep passion for our sport and is committed to securing a brighter and more sustainable future for our people and horses.It is a huge privilege to be given this opportunity to lead such a knowledgeable and dedicated team at a time of great opportunity for British racing.” The post Brant Dunshea Appointed BHA Chief Executive Officer appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

John Size is looking ahead to Sha Tin on Sunday with cautious optimism as he prepares the likes of four-timer seeking Stellar Express, Wunderbar, Super Express and Endued. By his own omission, it has been a slow campaign for the 13-time champion trainer, who currently sits sixth in the premiership on 27 winners. Although his customary midseason flourish did begin in earnest in December, seeing him shoot up the table as a result, Size is still striving for much more and Sunday sees him unleash...View the full article

Dennis Yip Chor-hong’s Dubai plans for Fast Network remain up in the air, with the classy sprinter set for Sunday’s Class One Essex Handicap (1,200m) at Sha Tin before a decision is finalised next week. Dubai Racing Club officials invited connections of Fast Network to run him in the Group One Al Quoz Sprint (1,200m) on March 28, but there is uncertainty surrounding the current conflict in Iran and the Middle East. Hong Kong-based jockey Karis Teetan and trainer Chris So Wai-yin were stranded in...View the full article

Te Akau’s black type troops will be out in force on Saturday with leading hopes chasing down elite level honours and a quartet of contenders in the hunt for the richest purse on offer at Ellerslie. Unbeaten filly Lara Antipova (Russian Revolution) will start a short-priced favourite in the Gr.1 Sistema Stakes (1200m), although trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson also expect a bold showing from stablemate Out Of The Blue (NZ) (Tivaci). An uncharacteristic last-start failure aside, Towering Vision’s (NZ) (Circus Maximus) form entitles him to respect in the Gr.1 HKJC World Pool NZ Derby (2400m) while To Bravery Born (NZ) (Snitzel), La Dorada (NZ) (Super Seth), He Who Dares (NZ) (Snitzel) and Belle Cheval (NZ) (Savabeel) represent the stable in the $4 million NZB Kiwi (1500m). Russian Revolution’s daughter Lara Antipova has been untested to win all three of her starts and is blessed with an ideal gate (four) in what looms as her sternest test to date. “She has gone right-handed and left-handed, on good tracks and a heavy track,” Bergerson said. “She keeps raising the bar and wasn’t overly suited by the conditions last time at Matamata where class got her through. “She is an incredibly sharp filly who can switch up gears at the drop of a hat. She saves it all for race day, so we are really excited about her and she’s a really strong winning chance.” Out Of The Blue has won two of his five starts and struggled with the track conditions when a last-start runner-up in the Gr.3 Matamata Slipper (1200m). “We thought he would get through the ground and he travelled into it nicely and Craig (Grylls) said when he let his head go, he went up and down on the spot,” Bergerson said. “He’s the most experienced horse in the field and that will hold him in good stead.” Towering Vision was tracking along perfectly toward the Derby before he tailed the field home in the Gr.2 Avondale Guineas (2100m). “We were so pleased with him heading in and confident, so we were scratching our heads,” Bergerson said. “He was vetted on the day, and we got him home and ran all possible tests, he’s as bright as a button and we can’t fault him. “Maybe he just had an off day, we’ve put a line through it and his previous form was very good. It’s an open Derby and he worked with the Wexford runner Yamato Satona (NZ) (Satono Aladdain) on Tuesday and the work was super so fingers crossed he can bounce back.” Te Akau’s Kiwi contingent have all pleased but Bergerson acknowledged the task ahead to lower the hot pot’s colours. “We’re really proud of the team and fantastic to have four in the race, they’ve all got there on their merits with different form lines,” he said. “Well Written (Written Tycoon) is there and she’s certainly the benchmark and the one to beat. We’re going in as underdogs, but we’re excited and just hope our four get some luck and get their chances.” While Bergerson is loath to split his runners, Belle Cheval narrowly gets the nod as top seed following consecutive Group Three victories in the Uncle Remus Stakes (1400m) and Almanzor Trophy (1200m). “The interesting thing is the set weights and penalties, some get in better than others and La Dorada has to carry that 3kg penalty and even To Bravery Born has to carry 58.5kg,” Bergerson said. “You’d probably say Belle Cheval is the one who really keeps stepping up and getting better and better. “I do think He Who Dares is way over the odds, he’s drifted because of the barrier draw (13) but if he is able to get across without doing too much work then he’ll give a great sight.” Earlier in the day, high-quality mare Quintessa (NZ) (Shamus Award) will resume in the Gr.2 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Classic (1400m). “She’s going really well and I know people watch her trials sometimes and get a bit disheartened, but she’s been the same the whole way through and waits until the blinkers go on,” Bergerson said. “She’s had two trials and an exhibition gallop, it’s an even field and she has to lug that Group One penalty but we’re sure she’s going to run really well.” View the full article

The second running of the $4 million NZB Kiwi (1500m) at Ellerslie on Saturday is already a major triumph for Karaka nursery Haunui Farm. The stud has a remarkable five graduates chasing the richest prize in Australasia for three-year-olds with Romanoff (NZ) (Belardo), He Who Dares (NZ) (Snitzel), L’Aigle Noir (NZ) (Ribchester), War Princess (NZ) (U S Navy Flag) and Lollapalooza (NZ) (El Roca) in contention for the Southern Hemisphere’s richest three-year-old race. “The amazing thing is that it’s a different style of race, someone has to pick your horse and it’s not just up to the handicapper,” Haunui’s Mark Chitty said. “I think all five justifiably deserve to be in the race, they have all showed nice form from a Group One winner to a Rating 67 in L’Aigle Noir, who was a bit unlucky in the Uncle Remus (Gr.3, 1400m). “To run a farm, you’re doing it 365 days of the year in all types of weather and circumstances, so we are very proud. “We’ve got some wonderful clients who have bred some of these horses as well as ourselves, that are in the race.” The top-rated Haunui graduate is the Pam Gerard-trained Gr.1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m) winner Romanoff. The son of Belardo was bred by Marie Leicester and sold through Haunui’s draft at New Zealand Bloodstock’s National Yearling Sale for $75,000 to Ballymore Stables, Paul Moroney Bloodstock and Catheryne Bruggeman. Te Akau’s multiple stakes-placed Snitzel colt He Who Dares was bred by Haunui with Frantic Bloodstock and knocked down at Karaka to David Ellis for $825,000. U S Navy Flag’s Gr.3 Eulogy Stakes (1600m) winner War Princess was sold to trainer Peter Didham and Exempt Bloodstock for $77,500 by Haunui on behalf of breeders Don and Dame Wendy Pye. The couple also bred El Roca’s daughter Lollapalooza, winner of the Gr.3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m), who was secured at Karaka for $30,000 and signed for by co-trainer Graham Richardson and Social Racing. The Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott-trained L’Aigle Noir is a daughter of Haunui’s resident sire Ribchester and represents one of the feelgood stories of The NZB Kiwi. “He was bred by Anne Marie de Spa and Charles Hall from Christchurch and Anne Marie has the Sothys Australasian franchise and they sponsored the 2000 Guineas (Gr.1, 1600m) for close to a decade,” Chitty said. “The mare (Silhouette Noire) had a chequered breeding career and unfortunately lost a foal and got quite ill after that. “She came to us and we couldn’t get her right, so I involved Dr Lee Morris from EquiBreed, and being a veterinarian myself, said we needed to scope the mare’s uterus. “We did that and found something on the lining and she lasered that area and the resulting progeny of all that was L’Aigle Noir. “With veterinary intervention and the work of Lee and myself we’ve got this horse, and Anne Marie and Charles asked me to come into the ownership, and we’ve got a full brother back on the ground. It’s a pretty cool story.” L’Aigle Noir broke his maiden before finishing third in the Gr.3 Bonecrusher Stakes (1400m) and a last-start fourth in the Uncle Remus after an interrupted run. “He’s an emerging horse and wasn’t out early and the Wexford team have taken him along quietly,” Chitty said. “You can’t deny Well Written has been sensational in her performances and she might just be way too good for them. “It is a horse race though, and we’ve seen before and we’ll see it again that not all $1.20 favourites win races, so we’ll take our chance and see what happens.” Haunui graduate slot holders: Romanoff, Canterbury Jockey Club; He Who Dares, Te Akau Racing; L’Aigle Noir, Waikato Thoroughbred Racing; War Princess, Milan Park and Lollapalooza, Barneswood Brady Nakhle. View the full article