Wandering Eyes

We have heard much about Christopher Head as he has stamped his name firmly in the book of young trainers to follow, and it will undoubtedly be wise also to pay attention to his sister, Victoria Head, who trains in her own right in Chantilly. It is exactly two years since the 28-year-old sent out her first runner for Jean-Louis Bouchard, and her stable has now grown from five horses in her debut season to 25. She is currently operating at a strike-rate of 25 per cent, with six winners on the board already this year and some potentially smart prospects on her hands. Notably, they include several for American owner-breeder George Strawbridge, who was a longstanding patron of the trainer's father, Freddy Head. “My father retired last year and I was really lucky because George Strawbridge decided to put some horses with me,” Head says. “Last year was my first year with two-year-olds and I knew I had some good horses who would be better at three. I am not training for many years but I know they have quality.” One who should be in action this week with an eye on future Classics is Hit It (Fr), an Almanzor (Fr) half-sister to Dice Roll (Fr) (Showcasing {GB}), who was third in the Poule d'Essai des Poulains in 2018 for Fabrice Chappet. The filly was bought by Strawbridge at the Arqana August Sale for €110,000 from breeder Maurice Lagasse of Gestut Zur Kuste. Hit It has won twice so far for for Head, at Saint-Cloud, and heads to Longchamp next Thursday for the Prix du Louvre. “Hit It is a good filly for sure and I am delighted to have this filly for the Strawbridges. She ran well in Saint-Cloud and she seems to like the heavy ground. It's not easy when you start out but they have trusted me from the beginning,” says the trainer. “I have five three-year-olds for them and I hope that there is a colt who is really nice who hasn't raced yet. His name is Inwi and he's a horse I am really looking forward to.” Inwi (GB) is indeed beautifully bred. A son of Dubawi (Ire), he is out of the G2 Prix du Conseil de Paris winner Listen In (Ire), herself a Sea The Stars (Ire) half-sister to Group winners Dominant (Ire) and Es Que Love (Ire). And he is not the only smartly-bred galloper in the stable. Ante Alios (Ger) (Guiliani {Ger}), a half-brother to the Melbourne Cup winner Almandin (Ger), became her first winner for the powerful German operation Gestut Schlenderhan when striking at Chantilly in March. He too is entered this Sunday for the Listed Prix Jacques Laffitte. “Gestut Schlenderhan has supported French racing for many years and I am really lucky to have this horse – I think he's very nice,” says Head. She is also keen, like many young trainers, to encourage syndicate ownership, which is gradually on the rise in France but still not as widely popular as in Britain or Ireland. “We are trying to bring young people into ownership and France is working hard to build the syndicate idea,” Head notes. “There are certainly more syndicates now than before, and I am lucky to have Ecurie Vivaldi in my stable, and also I have a new syndicate called High Heels, which is only for girls.” Like many of the members of her esteemed dynasty, which stretches back many generations in Chantilly but has its roots in England, Victoria Head communicates fluently in English. This was no doubt aided by some international travels before she began her training career. She will have gleaned much from her time spent working for Aidan O'Brien in Ireland, Gai Waterhouse in Australia and, finally, “the genius” Andre Fabre back in her home town. She says, “I like to see many different things so I tried to travel a lot. I went to Aidan O'Brien and it was the most amazing experience. I did a bit of everything there – I rode out in the morning and worked for Coolmore at the stud in the afternoon. I loved this experience and I loved Ireland. I learned a lot there and afterwards I went to Australia, which was totally different, though I also liked that experience. “When I came back to France I worked for Andre Fabre for a year. That experience made me grow up a lot. I learned maybe the most from him because I was a bit older by then, but I also learned a lot from the people I worked with there. He has a really good staff.” Though she maybe did not initially have the blessing of her own father to train, Head's parents are now owners in her stable, with five horses on the books, including last month's Saint-Cloud winner La Mandala (Fr) (City Light {Fr}) and Suchet (Fr) (Cloth Of Stars {Ire}), who won in February at Chantilly. Both are homebreds who carry a variation of the famous red Haras du Quesnay colours. “My father didn't want me to train,” she says. “I'm his daughter and he knows it's a tough life and he said he would prefer me to do something else, but I was sure I wanted to do this so he's happy now. My mother has always supported me.” As the latest member of a celebrated family which has enjoyed much success on the French turf and beyond, Head admits that she has plenty to live up to but is also fully appreciative of the benefit of her surname. “I try to do my work every day and don't think too much about that,” she says. “I do feel the pressure of the family name, but at the same time it is easier for me to have that name; it has definitely made things easier for me. But for all trainers, you have pressure anyway, especially when you are building your business.” Head trains from a separate yard to her brother but in part of the stable previously used by their father. She adds, “Christopher has had great success and I am happy for him. Now I am trying to play my part.” The post Spotlight on Victoria Head as Training Dynasty Extends appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Hong Kong Jockey Club will invest HK$140 million in 2024/25 in lowering the cost of ownership. Livery fees paid by Owners are the mechanism for covering the direct costs of the stable and other staff who are responsible for the stabling and training of horses. Recognising the current difficult general economic conditions which face Owners, the Club has decided to absorb a substantial portion of these costs on behalf of Owners. From the commencement of the 2024/25 season, the basic monthly livery fee for horses in training will be cut by 22%, reducing from HK$38,200 to HK$30,000 per month. This translates to an annualized reduction of HK$98,400 per horse. In addition to this, during the first four months after the arrival of a new horse import, the basic monthly livery fee will be further reduced by HK$5,000 to HK$25,000. This will represent a 35% reduction in livery fees for new imports compared with current charges. The Club has also implemented a new initiative to provide additional financial support to Owners to export their horses after their retirement from racing in Hong Kong. From next season, Owners will receive a payment of HK$50,000 towards the cost of exporting their horse from Hong Kong, in addition to the existing travel subsidy of up to HK$100,000. In other words, Owners will be paying almost 50% less than what they are currently paying for the export of their retired horses. Added together the three measures represent a HK$140 million investment by the Club in lowering the cost of ownership. “The investment that Owners make in buying high-quality horses is the bedrock of the Club’s world-class racing. We recognise that at the moment Owners face the twin pressures of strong competition in sourcing the best available horses to race in Hong Kong and the impact of the currently challenging global economic conditions. In these circumstances we have developed a package of measures designed to significantly reduce the costs that Owners paying to keep their horses in training, as well as the cost that is incurred when they retire a horse.” Mr Andrew Harding, Executive Director, Racing, said. “These measures complement the action taken by the Club over the past decade to invest in prize money to reward Owners’ investment. Over the past decade, prize money has been increased nearly 100% with prize money and incentives schemes totalling an estimated HK$1.73 billion on offer for the 2023/24 racing season.” View the full article

The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) announced plans on Thursday to invest HK$140 million in an attempt to significantly lower the cost of ownership in the jurisdiction. In 2024/25, the basic monthly livery fee for horses in training will be cut by 22%, from HK$38,200 (around €4,544) to HK$30,000 (€3,568), which translates to an annualised reduction of HK$98,400 (€11,704) per horse. In addition, during the first four months after the arrival of a new horse import, the basic monthly livery fee will be further reduced by HK$5,000 to HK$25,000 (€2,974). A new initiative will also be introduced to provide additional financial support to owners to export their horses after their retirement from racing in Hong Kong. From next season, owners will receive a payment of HK$50,000 (€5,947) towards the cost of exporting their horse from Hong Kong, in addition to the existing travel subsidy of up to HK$100,000 (€11,894). Andrew Harding, executive director of racing at the HKJC, said, “The investment that owners make in buying high-quality horses is the bedrock of the Club's world-class racing. We recognise that at the moment owners face the twin pressures of strong competition in sourcing the best available horses to race in Hong Kong and the impact of the currently challenging global economic conditions. “In these circumstances we have developed a package of measures designed to significantly reduce the costs that owners pay to keep their horses in training, as well as the cost that is incurred when they retire a horse. “These measures complement the action taken by the Club over the past decade to invest in prize money to reward owners' investment. Over the past decade, prize money has been increased nearly 100% with prize money and incentives schemes totalling an estimated HK$1.73 billion on offer for the 2023/24 racing season.” The post Measures Introduced to Reduce Cost of Ownership in Hong Kong appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Meath jockey Siobhan Rutledge will be sponsored by Leopardstown Racecourse for the 2024 Flat season. Rutledge began her racing career in 2018 having graduated from the RACE Racing Academy. Riding predominantly for Stamullen-based trainer John McConnell, Rutledge has since clocked up a total of 73 career winners, notable winning the 2023 Connacht Oaks aboard Starry Heavens (Ire) (Mastercraftsman {Ire}) for Jessica Harrington. “I'm delighted to announce my partnership with Leopardstown Racecourse,” said Rutledge. “I'm incredibly grateful for this amazing sponsorship opportunity and I can't wait to represent their brand on and off the track. “Their support means a lot to me as it was at Leopardstown itself where I had my first experience of race riding and fell in love with all that the sport has to offer. I'm really looking forward to kicking off this season with Leopardstown's support behind me. I hope we can thrive together and inspire the next generation to pursue their passions fearlessly.” CEO of Leopardstown, Tim Husbands, added, “We are thrilled to be supporting Siobhan through the 2024 season and following her progress all the way. Siobhan is one of our top female jockeys and nurturing and supporting that talent is something extremely important to Leopardstown. “Fostering the visibility of Women in Sport, as well as the accessibility of careers within the industry, is something we take pride in. We look forward to being a part of Siobhan's journey through the summer.” The post Leopardstown Racecourse Announce Siobhan Rutledge Partnership appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A string of measures announced on Thursday come as officials strive to generate interest during the application period for this year’s horse ballotView the full article

Te Akau Racing will continue their raid on The Championships in Sydney with a pair of in-form chances at Randwick this weekend, including quality filly Quintessa in the Gr.1 Australian Oaks (2400m). The daughter of Shamus Award has been a revelation for trainer Mark Walker this season, winning three and placing in three of her eights starts, including victories in the Gr.1 Levin Classic (1600m) and Gr.3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m). She was tested over 2000m for the first time last start when just going down to compatriot Antrim Coast in the Gr.2 Alister Clark Stakes (2040m) at The Valley last month, giving Walker the confidence to press on towards the Australian Oaks, where she will meet glamour filly Orchestral. “She got galloped on a little bit in the race (last start), but she has recovered from that and hasn’t missed a beat,” Walker told Trackside. “Orchestral and Zardozi are class fillies but we have got a nice draw (2) and she will be thereabouts. “She is a very fit horse and we haven’t had to do a huge amount with her, she is very clean-winded. Her mum was a High Chaparral mare so she should run the trip.” Te Akau will also be represented by Group One winner Campionessa in the Gr.1 Queen Of The Turf (1600m). She has been in pleasing form for Walker, heading into the race off the back of a victory in the Gr.2 Peter Young Stakes (1800m) at Caulfield in February and a third placing in the Gr.2 Sunline Stakes (1600m) at The Valley last month. Campionessa has drawn barrier 13 on Saturday and will be ridden by leading Kiwi hoop Opie Bosson, who will also partner Quintessa in the Oaks. “We have drawn out a bit on Saturday but at least we won’t get any bad luck from out there,” Walker said. “We haven’t had to do a lot with her because a mile this deep into her campaign we have just kept her on the fresh side, but she is in really good form.” View the full article

Robbie Patterson will chase further southern spoils at Riccarton Park on Saturday, with promising filly It’s Doris contesting the Listed NZB Insurance Stakes (1600m). Patterson’s last two trips across the Cook Strait have been highly successful, with subsequent Group One winner Puntura collecting the Gr.3 Coupland’s Bakeries Mile (1600m) during New Zealand Cup Week, and Regal Dice winning the Kumara Gold Nuggets (1810m) in January. A daughter of Telperion, It’s Doris debuted in late November and has put together a consistent record in her seven outings, including two victories and a fourth-placed effort in the Listed Oaks Prelude (1800m). The filly secured her place in Saturday’s 18-horse field when justifying favouritism over 1400m at Otaki on April 1, and Patterson indicated the forecast Canterbury rain would assist her chances. “She won the 65 pretty dominantly the other day, and the blinkers will go on this week as she can get to the front and loaf a bit,” he said. “She hasn’t gone down for the scenery, she’s there to be competitive. Any rain won’t worry her, if anything that will help her chances especially from the draw (13). “She naturally jumps well, so she’ll roll forward and hopefully slot into a nice position.” Northern-based jockey Courtney Barnes will partner each of Patterson’s five runners at Riccarton, including talented mare The Hottie, who will have a final lead-in to next Saturday’s Listed Great Easter Stakes (1400m) in the Angus Meats Open Handicap (1200m). “I was going to trial her on Tuesday at Foxton, but she’s going for the Listed 1400m next Saturday, so I thought she may as well run for some money,” Patterson said. “She’ll be winding up late if she can get a nice spot and attacking the line hard, but 1200m may be a touch short for her. Her main target will come the following week.” The Mistress would also benefit from a downgrade in track conditions, as the daughter of Derryn contends with an outside draw (17) in the Racecourse Hotel & Motor Lodge Rating 75 (1400m). “She’s got a tricky draw, but she’s a horse that jumps well and the off-ground will really suit her,” Patterson said. “She’ll be a bit of a weapon in the mud this year I think, so as long we get a bit of rain, she should be very competitive. She’s a nice animal that can go right through the grades, especially during the winter.” Patterson will also engage Maolla Miss in the Angus ‘Schawsy’ Shaw 30th Fizzer Rating 65 (1600m) and Wisemen’s Diva in the Rohan Mudhoo Trust Fundraising Now Maiden (1200m), both also drawing wide alleys. “Maolla Miss will need rain, but if she gets that, she will be very competitive. She ran nicely first-up and got home strong so the mile will suit. The wide draw won’t be a worry as she naturally gets back anyway,” Patterson said. “Wisemen’s Diva has had a couple of runs for me and been good, that little bit of rain won’t worry her either, she’d be pretty hard to beat if that comes.” Closer to his New Plymouth base, Patterson will line-up five contenders across two races at Otaki on Saturday. Well-performed mare Contribute will prepare for a tilt at the Gr.2 Travis Stakes (2000m) on April 27, a race Regal Dice may also contest after the Cavallo Farms & Chris Rutten Bloodstock Handicap (1600m). “Contribute trialled up well and any rain won’t worry her. At that weight over a mile in a fresh state (56.5kg), she should be very competitive,” Patterson said. “Contribute will go to the Travis Stakes all going well through this race, and Regal Dice could put her hand up as well. “She (Regal Dice) is fresh-up and may need the run, but she goes well at Otaki and an off-track won’t be a concern. She could be a nice place chance at pretty good money.” Lightly-raced six-year-old The Fearless One will complete Patterson’s trio in the open mile, the talented Australian Group Three-performer having just his 14th start in a muddled career due to wind issues. “He’s got heaps of ability, he placed in a President’s Cup, ran in the Brisbane Cup, and then went in the wind, so that’s altered his career a little bit. “He’s come back well and ran home strongly first-up, then he had a viral complaint so had a while between runs, so he trialled the other day and went nicely at Foxton. “Ciel (Butler, jockey) knows the horse well and gets a couple of kilos off (52kg), as long as it doesn’t get too heavy would be the only query. The Soft7 range would be fine, he’ll get back but he’ll be storming home in the finish. “He’s a horse with a lot of ability, and on his day, he’ll be pretty competitive in this race. “It’s getting a bit late in the season for him, even though he’s had no racing, because he won’t run in the heavy tracks. We may even look to go up to Ruakaka for a couple of runs through the winter to keep him ticking over, and then a short break before the spring.” Redwood mare The Dutch Dame will continue her build into winter racing in the Vets On Riverbank Handicap (1400m) alongside Bow Hill, who Patterson also holds in high regard. “1400m is too short for her (The Dutch Dame), but we’ve got to start her somewhere and get fitness into her ahead of the winter,” he said. “Bow Hill is a very nice horse, but we’ve just had a few problems with her. “She won nicely early on, then just went off the ball her next couple of starts, so we spelled her and brought her back. “She went super fresh-up, and I expect the same on Saturday especially with a bit of rain about with the blinkers going on.” View the full article

In the wake of the abandonment of Wednesday’s race meeting at Ellerslie Racecourse, Auckland Thoroughbred Racing (ATR), in conjunction with New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR), have undertaken a comprehensive investigation, resulting in an agreed plan of action that will be implemented to address safety concerns and ensure future racing success. Wednesday’s race meeting was abandoned after race three due to safety concerns arising from a slip on the newly-installed StrathAyr track. “We are disappointed in relation to having an abandonment. In upholding our commitment to excellence, instances like these are regrettable as they fall short of our standards,” ATR chief executive Paul Wilcox said. “We also understand the disappointment yesterday’s abandonment would have caused to participants, stakeholders, and fans. (We) also want to emphasise that the safety and wellbeing of horses and jockeys is paramount and accept that this was the right decision under the circumstances.” Wilcox said there are similarities between this incident and the one encountered at the TAB Karaka Millions meeting in January, acknowledging that yesterday’s issues stemmed from the interface between the root matting and the sand profile. “This incident bears resemblance to the issue presented at the TAB Karaka Millions earlier this year. We acknowledge that the root layer at the 10m rail position was not broken up to the extent of other used areas of the track – something that effectively formed a sponge that then held moisture near the surface. That’s what caused the issues,” he said. “Addressing this issue effectively is paramount to ensuring the safety and integrity of our racing surfaces moving forward.” Following a meeting on Thursday morning between the Club, NZTR and RIB (Racing Integrity Board) representatives, along with Frank Casimaty of StrathAyr and Chris Hay from Elwick Racecourse which has a StrathAyr track, an immediate plan of action is being implemented to address the issues created by the root mass and to also utilise the sand in the track to dust the surface and reduce any surface greasiness. “The Club, along with NZTR, are grateful for the advice received – particularly that from Chris Hay – as we continue to find the best process for preparing the track for raceday,” Wilcox said. “From installation through to the return to racing at Ellerslie, we have worked closely with StrathAyr to ensure the highest standards. Our next steps will help restore confidence of our jockeys, owners, trainers, and punters in our racing surface at Ellerslie.” ATR commenced vertidraining the track earlier this week and will continue this process with additional coring of the track to a depth of at least 100mm. This action is aimed at bringing the sand from these cores to the track’s surface. Machinery will be utilised to break up these cores and spread them over the track’s surface, with any remaining grass tufts to be removed. This work will be undertaken over the remainder of the week and into the weekend. NZTR chief operating officer Darin Balcombe is pleased about the steps being taken. “After our discussions with Chris Hay this morning, we are confident that the additional coring and breaking up of those cores will alleviate the issues with the surface,” he said. “We will continue to work closely with ATR to ensure the track continues to improve with racing.” ATR has ordered a corer machine to help ensure the ongoing track surface will continue to improve with further racing and, after the conclusion of the season on May 25, will undertake a heavy renovation on the track to include removing the matting to prevent similar issues in the future. “As we move forward, our focus remains unwaveringly fixed on ensuring the highest standards of safety and excellence,” Wilcox said. “We are fully committed to implementing comprehensive measures to address the issue swiftly and effectively. “Looking ahead, we are optimistic that with the planned renovations and diligent maintenance efforts, our track at Ellerslie will not only be stabilised but also optimised to deliver impeccable racing conditions and an exceptional racing experience for all participants and enthusiasts alike.” Prior to returning to racing, trials will take place this coming Monday 15 April. These will need to be completed satisfactorily with the rail in the raceday position for racing to resume as scheduled on Easter Handicap Day, next Saturday 20 April. NZTR have instigated the Abandonment Review Protocol and will review all events and track preparation leading up to the partial abandonment of Wednesday’s raceday. View the full article

The 10-time Group 1-winning star Imperatriz has run her last race with the rising six-year-old mare to be prepared to begin life as a broodmare next spring. Te Akau Racing principal David Ellis confirmed the surprising news on Thursday, saying that after consulting with her owners, it was decided the highly-valuable mare’s future lay in the breeding barn following her half-length defeat when fourth in last Saturday’s G1 T J Smith Stakes at Randwick. “Imperatriz has been a magnificent race mare, I loved her from the time I set eyes on her at the Magic Millions’ sale. What she has done since has firmly established her as one of the very best race mares Australasia has seen in recent times,” David Ellis said on the Te Akau Racing website.. “From a filly that was the last to sell as a yearling, she became a Champion racehorse and when Karyn and I saw her win her second Group 1 William Reid at Moonee Valley last month, we couldn’t believe the crowd’s adulation for her, The Valley was a sea of tangerine. “Her tenacity, courage and sheer determination, combined with the sweetest nature you could imagine, have certainly won the hearts of fans worldwide. The joy she has brought to her owners is indescribable.” Ellis said a vet inspection after Imperatriz returned home to New Zealand led to them making the call to retire her. “Te Akau always puts the well-being of our horses first. The indications are that another high-level racing preparation would not be in her best interests, so whilst sad, the decision is very straightforward. Her welfare is our top priority, and she will retire a happy and sound horse,” he said. By the champion sire I Am Invincible, the Australian-bred Imperatriz was purchased by Ellis for $360,000 at the 2020 Gold Coast Premier sales and went on to win a tick under $7 million in stakes from her 19 wins and four placings from 27 starts. After having her first 17 runs in New Zealand, Imperatriz returned to Australia for the first time since her yearling days last autumn when nosed out of the G1 Canterbury Stakes at Randwick by Artorius. She then went on a winning spree that netted her six straight wins – five at G1 level – before she was beaten in the G1 Newmarket Handicap at Flemington by the lightweight Cylinder. She bounced back to record G1 No. 10 in the William Reid Stakes at The Valley before her final run last Saturday when beaten half a length into fourth place in the G1 T J Smith Stakes at Randwick. Imperatriz retires with the second most G1 victories for Te Akau Racing with her 10 wins at the elite level still four behind that of former star Melody Belle. View the full article

Mr Brightside (NZ) (Bullbars) and Pride Of Jenni (Pride of Dubai) haven’t reached ‘arch rival’ status just yet, but Ben Hayes admits he will be satisfied if the former can square the ledger at Randwick. The pair has run the quinella three times, Pride Of Jenni relegating Mr Brightside to second in the Cantala Stakes and All-Star Mile, while Mr Brightside won the points decision in the C F Orr Stakes. Both had to play minor roles last start in the Australian Cup, Pride Of Jenni finishing second to Cascadian (New Approach) and Mr Brightside fifth. They will again go head-to-head on Saturday, this time in the A$5 million Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) at Randwick where Hayes is hoping Mr Brightside can rise to the occasion. “I wouldn’t say arch-rivals, but we’re naturally competitive and enjoy it,” Hayes said. “It’s good for racing, rivalries are good and they’ve raced together a couple of times. “At the moment she is winning….we get another opportunity to even up the score, which is currently two-one. “It’s something the racing public should embrace.” Mr Brightside’s unplaced effort in the Australian Cup last start was the first time he had missed a top three finish in more than 12 months. Hayes said the six-year-old didn’t enjoy the firm ground and also felt he was ridden too close in a race made into a testing 2000-metre contest by Pride Of Jenni’s Vo Rogue-style of racing. While he hasn’t won beyond a mile, Mr Brightside went down in a photo finish to Romantic Warrior (Acclamation) in the Cox Plate (2040m) and Hayes is confident the gelding can run out the 2000m journey on Saturday, provided he is ridden conservatively. “We tried different tactics last start and had him a bit closer, it probably doesn’t suit him,” Hayes said. “In a normally run 2000 where they run along and build, he’d run it out no problem, but the way Pride Of Jenni runs her races, it probably takes away our horse’s best asset, his turn of foot, because he is chasing so far out. “We’ve got to let him balance, get him comfortable, keep him happy and have him hit the line strongly.” The Queen Elizabeth Stakes has become the jewel in the crown of The Championships having been won in recent years by the likes of Dundeel (NZ) (High Chaparral) (2014), Winx (NZ) (Street Cry) (2017-2019) and Addeybb (Pivotal) (2020-21). It has again attracted a deep field with Australian Cup hero Cascadian and well performed imports Via Sistina (Fastnet Rock) and Place Du Carrousel (Lope De Vega) joining Mr Brightside and Pride Of Jenni in the elite line up, while Australian Derby runner-up Ceolwulf (NZ) (Tavistock) will be bidding to end a 27-year drought for the three-year-olds. View the full article

Timaru’s Washdyke racecourse is synonymous with some of the iconic names in New Zealand and Australian racing history, however, it’s now timely to reflect on the contribution of one of its unsung heroes, long-time chief executive Paul Hinsley. The Timaru track is well-known as Phar Lap Raceway, honouring the champion galloper who was bred at nearby Seadown in the mid-1920s. Half a century later another locally-bred horse brought further fame, the Peter South-owned and Pat Corboy-trained Grey Way, who became known as the Washdyke Wonder as he compiled a remarkable record of 51 wins from 164 starts. Both Phar Lap, whose life-sized bronze statue now adorns the main entranceway to the course, and Grey Way earned immortality with induction to the New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame. While Paul Hinsley might not belong in that illustrious pantheon, his contribution to racing in the South Canterbury region cannot be over-stated. At age 68, last month he brought the curtain down on 40 years at Washdyke, having taken on the role of CEO for the South Canterbury Racing Club, the (now defunct) South Canterbury Hunt and Timaru Harness Racing Club based on the dual-track course. “My first career was car painter, but that lost its attraction and bookwork appeared more likeable,” Hinsley said. “With my wife Jenny we set up a secretarial service for various businesses, which included operations at the racecourse with me taking care of the financials while she managed events. “It’s a structure that has worked very well for everyone involved, but with both of us dealing with health issues over the past few years, the time had come for us to step back.” Much has changed over the past four decades in both codes that utilise Washdyke’s racing and training facilities, from raceday funding and programming to the number of actual racedays – and the threat of closure. “When the Messara Report was released back in 2018, Phar Lap Raceway was one of the tracks earmarked to close,” Hinsley said. “It took us completely by surprise – we were very disappointed that we were slated for closure. “It made no sense why a venue that offered so much to the local community as well as the wider racing industry should be closed. We weren’t prepared to accept it, so we went to work to fight it and maintain our position. “We worked through our local MP who fought a really good fight for us and we made a public submission to Parliament with over 6,000 signatures. We basically spent four years fighting it, but it was worth all the effort when we forced a backdown.” Hinsley modestly takes his share of the credit for the health in which he is leaving operations at Phar Lap Raceway. “When I began here, the Racing Club relied on the annual TAB payout as its main funding source, but back then that was only sufficient to pay the overdraft. “The payments and funding systems have changed quite a bit over the years – more regular payments to the clubs, bulk funding of stakes and so on – and I’d like to think that we’ve made the most of that. From where the club was back when I started to now having $500,000 in reserves, I suppose that’s a fairly good indication of the club’s health.” Change has also manifested itself in the number of race meetings conducted on the course, from a total of 15 to the current four gallops and five harness fixtures. Rationalisation of individual races has also resulted in the loss of black-type status for the South Canterbury Racing Club’s Timaru Cup staged annually on December 28. “It was a close call when the Pattern Committee were overhauling the country’s stakes races last year and the Timaru Cup lost its Listed status by just one point. It was disappointing, but we still managed to run what is now known as the Timaru Heritage Cup for a stake of $80,000.” One aspect of club administration that is no longer the domain of gallops club manager is the collation of nominations and acceptances, and Hinsley admits to being a convert for the central bureau system that came into play some 20 years ago. “I have to confess when it was introduced I was one of the nay-sayers amongst those who thought it would mean clubs losing their identity,” he said. “That never happened, the clubs remained part of the process and now I’m one its biggest fans, it really has streamlined the process.” While Hinsley’s approach to his role has been through a commercial lens, it still hasn’t stopped him from indulging in racehorse ownership, well aware that any such involvement would be based on having fun rather than making money. “We bought a stable across the road from the track and had Paul Ayton based there as the resident trainer. We won a lot of races through the second half of the 1990s – 18 one season and more than 50 all up,” he said. “We won races on our home track with horses like Princess Vain, Money Belt and Innovator, and then there was Miss Paris House, who set an 1100m track record at Riccarton that stood for years. Warwick Coles, the course manager here and also a trainer, also won a race on the track for us with Rent A Gent. “It’s hard to actually make money out of racing horses, but you can’t beat the excitement of your horse flying down the straight in front.” Hinsley and his wife will step back from their long-time involvement at Phar Lap Raceway with countless good memories, and gratitude for all those who have helped make their job easier. “We couldn’t have done all this by ourselves,” he said. “Some of the staff here have been with me all the way through, we’ve had great back-up from a whole lot of people, and not forgetting our own community with sponsorship and other support.” View the full article

The Melbourne arm of Andrew Forsman’s operation has been boosted by the arrival of feature race contenders Positivity (NZ) (Almanzor) and Good Oil (NZ) (Dalghar). The Cambridge trainer dispatched the quality duo to his Flemington stable earlier this week to prepare for upcoming feature race assignments. “They arrived there on Wednesday and have travelled well and settling in nicely,” Forsman said. Almanzor filly Positivity has made great strides this preparation and progressed from a maiden success to claim the Gr.3 Sunline Vase (2100m) and last time out finished runner-up in the Gr.1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m). “She will run in the Australasian Oaks (Gr.1, 2000m) on April 27 at Morphettville,” Forsman said. “Depending how she performs, we can either run her in the Derby (Gr.1, 2500m) or there’s a Group Three 2500m race (SA Fillies’ Classic). “We put her out for a week after the Oaks to freshen-up and she came back into work and she’s up to the mark. “Obviously, back to the 2000m she will be better on the fresh side, and she has retained her fitness.” Stablemate Good Oil has been one of the surprise movers through the staying ranks this year and finished third in both the Gr.3 Avondale Cup (2400m) and the Nathans Memorial (2200m) before he ran second in the Gr.2 Auckland Cup (3200m). “He’s done a great job and certainly exceeded my expectations, he just keeps stepping up and every time we raised the bar he’s been up to the challenge,” Forsman said. “He’ll run in the Mornington Cup (Listed, 2400m) on Saturday week and the idea would be to then run in the Andrew Ramsden (Listed, 2800m) at Flemington. “Whether he runs in between times is still be to worked out, but there is the Warrnambool Cup (Listed, 2350m).” Forsman is also plotting stakes targets for Flemington residents Mr Maestro (NZ) (Savabeel), a resuming fifth in the Gr.3 Victoria Handicap (1400m), and last-start Geelong winner Riproar (NZ) (Charm Spirit). “Mr Maestro was great in a really tough race, it was the only suitable one to get him going and he held his own against seasoned horses,” Forsman said. “We’ve got no grand plans and on the same day as Positivity runs in Adelaide there’s an open mile so we might give him a trip as well. “Riproar came through his run well and there’s the Mornington Guineas (1600m) on Saturday week so ideally we’d like to have a go at that.” Meanwhile, Forsman will have a quartet of runners at Otaki on Saturday, headed by recent winner Sporting Chance (Dundeel) in the Listed Hawke’s Bay Cup (2200m). “He won on a firm track at Ellerslie and it will be different on Saturday, but he has showed the ability to handle an off track so I don’t think it will worry him,” Forsman said. Mr Mojo Risin’ (NZ) (Deep Field) will be second-up in the Vets On Riverbank Handicap (1400m), Wyndsong (NZ) (Wyndspelle) tackles the McMillan Equine Feeds 2YO (1300m) off the back of a debut fourth and Milanese (NZ) (Zed) had little luck first time out and runs in The Tele Otaki Maiden (1600m). “I quite like all of them and think Mr Mojo Risin’ will be hard to beat, he just needed the run the other day and carried a big weight (59.5kg) so the claim (3kg) will certainly help him,” Forsman said. View the full article

He’s captured two of New Zealand’s biggest staying scalps and now Cambridge gelding Mahrajaan (Kitten’s Joy) has crossed the Tasman to try and assert his dominance in Australia. The American-bred gelding was purchased by co-trainer Shaune Ritchie from the 2022 Tattersalls Autumn Horses-In-Training Sale at Newmarket, England, for 75,000 guineas, and rewarded the Cambridge horseman’s judgement a year later when taking out the Gr.3 New Zealand Cup (3200m) at Riccarton last November before going on to secure a Cups double at Ellerslie last month when victorious in the Gr.2 Auckland Cup (3200m). Now victorious over 3200m at Group Two and Three level, Ritchie, along with co-trainer Com Murray, are hoping he can complete the Group-level set in the Gr.1 Sydney Cup (3200m) at Randwick on Saturday. “We bought him initially to try and win a New Zealand Cup with him and once we got over that goal we took the next step, which was the Auckland Cup,” Ritchie told Trackside NZ. “It is no mean feat to try and win three two-mile races in one season, it probably wouldn’t be done very often, and obviously this is a step-up in class. “I think we have got a pretty even field this year, it has certainly softened up late, we just hope the track isn’t too soft for him.” Like many trainers in Australasia, Ritchie said he has always dreamed of lining up a runner in the Gr.1 Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington on the first Tuesday in November, and Saturday is a litmus test to see if his charge is up to the task. “We are just testing the waters,” he said. “It is a boyhood dream to have a runner in a Melbourne Cup, so if he can be competitive here it would be nice to take him home and get him ready for the spring. “He is just that ultimate stayer. I think the booking of Tommy Marquand (jockey) is a good one, he is very strong and is not scared to get going on them early, he will get him out of the barrier. He is going to need to get him out there from a wide gate (16) and get somewhere involved. He is an on-pace horse and does run the two-miles out very strongly. That is his edge over other horses. “It is just nice to be at Randwick and back in Sydney and perhaps seeing how far we can lift the bar and how high he can jump.” Meanwhile, back in New Zealand, the stable will by vying for stakes success at Riccarton on Saturday with Nepheti (NZ) (Charm Spirit) in the Listed NZB Insurance Stakes (1600m). The Windsor Park Stud-bred and raced filly has shown plenty of ability in her brief career to date, winning three and placing in one of her six starts, including a 1-1/4 length triumph over 1400m at Ellerslie a fortnight ago. Her trainers had been gearing her towards an Oaks tilt, but she has proven to be more effected over a shorter trip, and they believe the mile journey this weekend will be right up her alley. “She is a filly we have always liked and thought we could get her to the Oaks. She failed in the Sunline over 2100m, so I think a mile is her distance,” Murray said. “I think she is right up there. She showed her class the other day when she sat in behind them, peeled off and away she went. “She went down last Saturday and got there on Sunday evening and I am very happy with her. By all accounts she has settled in well. She is a pretty fit horse and with the travel down there we just tick them over. She was pretty right before she left here.” Nepheti has been installed a $3.80 favourite for Saturday’s contest by TAB bookmakers, ahead of No Rain Ever at $5.50 and Dangerous Liaisons (NZ) (No Nay Never) at $7. View the full article

Quintessa will contest the Group 1 Australian Oaks (2400m) at Randwick on Saturday. Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North) Te Akau Racing will continue their raid on The Championships in Sydney with a pair of in-form chances at Randwick this weekend, including quality filly Quintessa in the Group 1 Australian Oaks (2400m). The daughter of Shamus Award has been a revelation for trainer Mark Walker this season, winning three and placing in three of her eights starts, including victories in the Group 1 Levin Classic (1600m) and Group 3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m). She was tested over 2000m for the first time last start when just going down to compatriot Antrim Coast in the Group 2 Alister Clark Stakes (2040m) at Moonee Valley last month, giving Walker the confidence to press on towards the Australian Oaks, where she will meet glamour filly Orchestral. “She got galloped on a little bit in the race (last start), but she has recovered from that and hasn’t missed a beat,” Walker told Trackside. “Orchestral and Zardozi are class fillies but we have got a nice draw (2) and she will be thereabouts. “She is a very fit horse and we haven’t had to do a huge amount with her, she is very clean-winded. Her mum was a High Chaparral mare so she should run the trip.” Te Akau will also be represented by Group One winner Campionessa in the Group 1 Queen Of The Turf (1600m). She has been in pleasing form for Walker, heading into the race off the back of a victory in the Group 2 Peter Young Stakes (1800m) at Caulfield in February and a third placing in the Group 2 Sunline Stakes (1600m) at The Valley last month. Campionessa has drawn barrier 13 on Saturday and will be ridden by leading Kiwi hoop Opie Bosson, who will also partner Quintessa in the Oaks. “We have drawn out a bit on Saturday but at least we won’t get any bad luck from out there,” Walker said. “We haven’t had to do a lot with her because a mile this deep into her campaign we have just kept her on the fresh side, but she is in really good form.” Horse racing news View the full article

What Bendigo Mile Day 2024 Where Bendigo Jockey Club – Heinz St, White Hills VIC 3550 When Saturday, April 13, 2024 First Race 12:05pm AEST Visit Dabble The annual Golden Mile meeting at Bendigo awaits punters on Saturday afternoon with 10 races set down for decision. The Listed Golden Mile (1600m) and Bendigo Guineas (1400m) headline proceedings on a track rated a Good 4. The rail sticks to its true position, with Bendigo’s marquee day commencing at 12:05pm AEST. Golden Mile Top Tip: Makram Makram has been impressive in two runs this campaign, beating Jimmysstar in Listed company first-up before finishing a length off Atishu in Group 2 company at Flemington on March 2. This is no harder than those races. Makram is blessed with talent and a strong turn of foot, and on the back of a genuine tempo, he has the finishing burst to salute in the Golden Mile. Golden Mile Race 9 – #4 Makram (8) 7yo Gelding | T: Ben, Will & JD Hayes | J: Harry Coffey (58kg) +750 with Bet365 Bendigo Guineas Tip: Roll On High Roll On High is a Group 1 winner in the making. The three-year-old filly finished 3.5 lengths off Tropical Squall in the Group 1 Surround Stakes (1400m) and then was beaten by two lengths in Group 2 company at Moonee Valley. She boasts a win over subsequent Group 1 winner Joliestar last spring, and if Roll On High is anywhere near her best, she should prove too classy in the Bendigo Guineas. Bendigo Guineas Race 8 – #8 Roll On High (14) 3yo Filly | T: Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman | J: Luke Nolen (58kg) +220 with PlayUp Best Bet at Bendigo: Divus Romulus Divus Romulus broke his maiden first-up with a dominant win over 1600m at Pakenham, then ran down his rivals over the Sandown 2100m. In this 2400m affair, John Allen will have the son of Fast Company settled towards the rear of the field throughout. Divus Romulus is armed with a strong finishing burst, however, and as long as he can handle the step up in distance, he looks the goods in the opener. Best Bet Race 1 – #14 Divus Romulus (11) 4yo Gelding | T: Nick Ryan | J: John Allen (54.5kg) +240 with Picklebet Next Best at Bendigo: Chorlton Lane If Chorlton Lane brings anything close to his best on his return from a five-month spell, he simply wins the Bendigo finale. The Ciaron Maher-trained gelding has two wins and a second in three first-up runs throughout his career, and he is yet to miss the top three in six runs at 1400m. Ethan Brown will likely have his mount in the second half of the field, but if the pair can gain a nice tow, Chorlton Lane should dispose of his rivals. Next Best Race 10 – #10 Chorlton Lane (8) 4yo Gelding | T: Ciaron Maher | J: Ethan Brown (57.5kg) +280 with Dabble Saturday quaddie tips for Bendigo Bendigo quadrella selections Saturday, April 13, 2024 1-3-4-7-9-10 1-8-12 2-3-4-10-16-17 2-10-15 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More racing tips View the full article

Mahrajaan winning the Gr.3 New Zealand Cup (3200m). Photo: Race Images South He’s captured two of New Zealand’s biggest staying scalps and now Cambridge gelding Mahrajaan has crossed the Tasman to try and assert his dominance in Australia. The American-bred gelding was purchased by co-trainer Shaune Ritchie from the 2022 Tattersalls Autumn Horses-In-Training Sale at Newmarket, England, for 75,000 guineas, and rewarded the Cambridge horseman’s judgement a year later when taking out the Group 3 New Zealand Cup (3200m) at Riccarton last November before going on to secure a Cups double at Ellerslie last month when victorious in the Group 2 Auckland Cup (3200m). Now victorious over 3200m at Group Two and Three level, Ritchie, along with co-trainer Colm Murray, are hoping he can complete the Group-level set in the Group 1 Sydney Cup (3200m) at Randwick on Saturday. “We bought him initially to try and win a New Zealand Cup with him and once we got over that goal we took the next step, which was the Auckland Cup,” Ritchie told Trackside NZ. “It is no mean feat to try and win three two-mile races in one season, it probably wouldn’t be done very often, and obviously this is a step-up in class. “I think we have got a pretty even field this year, it has certainly softened up late, we just hope the track isn’t too soft for him.” Like many trainers in Australasia, Ritchie said he has always dreamed of lining up a runner in the Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington on the first Tuesday in November, and Saturday is a litmus test to see if his charge is up to the task. “We are just testing the waters,” he said. “It is a boyhood dream to have a runner in a Melbourne Cup, so if he can be competitive here it would be nice to take him home and get him ready for the spring. “He is just that ultimate stayer. I think the booking of Tommy Marquand (jockey) is a good one, he is very strong and is not scared to get going on them early, he will get him out of the barrier. He is going to need to get him out there from a wide gate (16) and get somewhere involved. He is an on-pace horse and does run the two-miles out very strongly. That is his edge over other horses. “It is just nice to be at Randwick and back in Sydney and perhaps seeing how far we can lift the bar and how high he can jump.” Horse racing news View the full article

What W.A.T.C. Derby Day Where Ascot Racecourse – 71 Grandstand Rd, Ascot WA 6104 When Saturday, April 13, 2024 First Race 12:09pm AWST Visit Dabble The Group 2 W.A.T.C. Derby will headline the action at Ascot Racecourse this Saturday afternoon, with a massive nine-race program set down for decision. Although the track was rated as a Soft 5 at the time of acceptances, no rain is forecast for the remainder of the week, and the meeting will start on a perfect Good 4 surface. The rail will go back into the True position, with the opening race on W.A.T.C. Derby Day scheduled to jump at 12:09pm AWST. W.A.T.C. Derby Tip: Own The Queen After claiming the Group 3 WA Oaks last start, Own The Queen will seek to become the fourth filly since the turn of the century to complete the Oaks/Derby double in Western Australia. The Justine Erkelens-trained filly has won five on the bounce and will be one of three runners that have competed over 2400m before Saturday’s W.A.T.C. Derby. This daughter of Awesome Rock is armed with a blistering turn of foot, and if she is within four lengths of the leaders turning into the home straight, Own The Queen will take a power of beating. W.A.T.C. Derby Race 7 – #14 Own The Queen (11) 3yo Filly | T: Justine Erkelens | J: Troy Turner (54.5kg) +360 with Bet365 Best Bet at Ascot: Flower In The Wind Flower In The Wind has won back-to-back races in her last two starts over 2100m and 2200m, and now that the Neville Parnham-trained mare steps up to 2400m, she is poised to complete the hat-trick. This daughter of Sebring is full of confidence following a dominant 1.5-length victory on April 6, and after drawing barrier four, Steven Parnham should be able to settle her in the one-one position and receive the run of the race. If Flower In The Wind can handle the rise in class and distance, she will be winning again. Best Bet Race 4 – #2 Flower In The Wind (8) 5yo Mare | T: Neville Parnham | J: Steven Parnham (58kg) +170 with Neds Next Best at Ascot: Fly With Caution Michael Poy gave Fly With Caution a peach of a ride last start, as the Robert Witten-trained galloper pushed through a gap between the leaders late to pull away from his rivals and claim an impressive win. This lightly raced four-year-old was narrowly beaten first-up over 1300m, and he appreciated the rise to 1400m previously, a distance that he will stay at for his third run this time in. After drawing barrier three, Poy should be able to settle this son of Galah behind the leader, and if he gets the breaks late, expect Fly With Caution to play a prominent role in the finish again. Next Best Race 8 – #10 Fly With Caution (4) 5yo Gelding | T: Robert Witten | J: Michael Poy (56kg) +450 with PlayUp Next Best Again at Ascot: Karalee Rocks Karalee Rocks went down as a beaten favourite first-up at this track and trip on March 23, where the Colin Webster-trained mare couldn’t reel in the leaders from the back of the field. With the benefit of the run under her belt, this daughter of Flying Artie should get conditions to suit second-up, with a lot of speed expected in this contest. Even though this five-year-old mare has drawn barrier eight, her get-back-and-run-on racing pattern will negate the awkward gate. If the leaders run the race along at a solid clip, Karalee Rocks will be flying home late. Next Best Again Race 9 – #4 Karalee Rocks (8) 5yo Mare | T: Colin Webster | J: Jordan Turner (59kg) +400 with Picklebet Saturday quaddie tips for Ascot races Ascot quadrella selections Saturday, April 13, 2024 2-3-5-9 2-5-14-16 4-7-10 1-4-10-11 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

10-time Group 1 winner Imperatriz. (Photo by George Sal/Racing Photos) Imperatriz, the illustrious 10-time Group 1 champion, has concluded her racing career, with plans underway for the rising six-year-old mare to transition into a broodmare come next spring, as confirmed by Te Akau Racing principal David Ellis. Ellis expressed his sentiments, stating, “Imperatriz has been a magnificent race mare, I loved her from the time I set eyes on her at the Magic Millions’ sale. What she has done since has firmly established her as one of the very best race mares Australasia has seen in recent times.” “From a filly that was the last to sell as a yearling, she became a Champion racehorse and when Karyn and I saw her win her second Group 1 William Reid at Moonee Valley last month, we couldn’t believe the crowd’s adulation for her, The Valley was a sea of tangerine. “Her tenacity, courage and sheer determination, combined with the sweetest nature you could imagine, have certainly won the hearts of fans worldwide. “The joy she has brought to her owners is indescribable.” Explaining the rationale behind the decision, Ellis highlighted the mare’s welfare as the paramount concern. “Te Akau always puts the well-being of our horses first. The indications are that another high-level racing preparation would not be in her best interests, so whilst sad, the decision is very straightforward. “Her welfare is our top priority, and she will retire a happy and sound horse.” Imperatriz, sired by the esteemed I Am Invincible and purchased by Ellis for $360,000 at the 2020 Gold Coast Premier sales, amassed an impressive career earnings of nearly $7 million from 19 victories and four placings out of 27 starts. After an initial 17 races in New Zealand, Imperatriz made her return to Australia last autumn, embarking on a remarkable winning streak that included six consecutive victories, five of which were at the Group 1 level. Her illustrious career culminated with a remarkable 10th Group 1 triumph in the William Reid Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley before her final outing at the TJ Smith Stakes last Saturday. Imperatriz retires with the distinction of being the second-highest Group 1 winner for Te Akau Racing, with her remarkable tally of 10 victories at the elite level trailing only behind the former star, Melody Belle. Horse racing news View the full article

Handler is hoping for a much-needed boost when progressive The Absolute contests the Class Four Chaoyangmen Handicap (1,400m) on SundayView the full article

What Doomben Races Where Doomben Racecourse – 75 Hampden St, Ascot QLD 4007 When Saturday, April 13, 2024 First Race 11:53am AEST Visit Dabble Racing will return to Doomben this Saturday afternoon as the Brisbane Racing Club hosts a competitive nine-race program. The track was rated as a Soft 6 at the time of acceptances; however, with no rain on the forecast for Friday and Saturday, it is expected that the surface will improve into the Good range by the start of the meeting. The rail will be pushed out to the +3.5m position, with racing set to kick off at 11:53am AEST. Best Bet at Doomben: Chinny Boom Chinny Boom will seek back-to-back wins after claiming victory at the Gold Coast over 1100m last start, where the Clinton Taylor-trained mare proved too classy for her rivals on March 9. This four-year-old mare hasn’t finished outside the placings in four starts this time, and if she can push forward and hold a position from barrier seven on Saturday, she appears very hard to beat again. Cejay Graham will look to cross the field to find the front, and if Chinny Boom does get an uncontested lead, she should prove very hard to run down. Best Bet Race 4 – #3 Chinny Boom (7) 4yo Mare | T: Clinton Taylor | J: Cejay Graham (58kg) +100 with PlayUp Next Best at Doomben: Ranch Hand Although Ranch Hand is coming up on 12 months since his last win, the Tony Gollan-trained galloper has been banging the door down this preparation with back-to-back placings from two starts over 1200m. This son of Fastnet Rock flew home from the back of the field to run Ned’s Gully to within half a length previously, and now that he steps up in distance to 1400m third-up, it appears to be the recipe for success. From the ace draw, Ryan Maloney can settle midfield on the fence, and with even luck, Ranch Hand should prove too strong late. Next Best Race 8 – #6 Ranch Hand (1) 5yo Gelding | T: Tony Gollan | J: Ryan Maloney (55.5kg) +320 with Neds Best Value at Doomben: Argyle Pink Tony Gollan and Angela Jones will combine with Argyle Pink as the five-year-old mare seeks to keep her undefeated record intact for this preparation after claiming a narrow first-up win. Jones gave this daughter of Star Witness an inch-perfect front-running ride to defeat Amathuba by a nose over 1200m fresh, and with that win under her belt, she will go into this contest full of confidence. From barrier four, Jones should be able to find the front of the field, and if Argyle Pink can show the same turn of foot late, she will give her rivals something to chase. Best Value Race 9 – #12 Argyle Pink (4) 5yo Mare | T: Tony Gollan | J: Angela Jones (58kg) +900 with Picklebet Saturday quaddie tips for Doomben races Doomben quadrella selections Saturday, April 13, 2024 1-6-7-9-12 1-3-4-10 1-6-10 3-6-11-12 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

What The Championships 2024 Day 2 Where Royal Randwick Racecourse – Alison Rd, Randwick NSW 2031 When Saturday, April 13, 2024 First Race 11:45am AEST Visit Dabble Royal Randwick is the destination for NSW metro racing on Saturday afternoon, where a bumper 10-race program awaits punters for Day 2 of The Championships. Four massive Group 1’s headline proceedings, with the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) drawing a quality 10-horse field. Throw in the Group 1 Australian Oaks (2400m), Group 1 Sydney Cup (3200m) and Group 1 Queen Of The Turf (1600m), and it’s bound to be another exciting day of racing. The rail has been moved out +4m between 1400m to winning post, while the remainder is out +3m. The track is currently rated a Soft 6, and with light showers forecast in the lead-up to the weekend, participants should expect that rating to hold prior to the opening event at 11:45am AEST. Race 1: Listed Fernhill Mile (1600m) The two-year-olds get things underway in the Listed Fernhill Mile (1600m), where the James Cummings-trained Broadsiding is nearing a peak performance fourth-up into the campaign. The son of Too Darn Hot has found the minor money on back-to-back occasions, with the latest a 2.3-length defeat at the hands of Linebacker in the Group 3 Baillieu (1400m) at Rosehill on March 30. James McDonald will need to do some work early to overcome barrier 10, however, provided Broadsiding slots in for cover throughout the journey, this guy can get punters off to a profitable start to the day. Selections: 3 BROADSIDING 1 JUST PARTY 7 RASP 2 MISS BUSSLINGER Next Best Race 1 – #3 Broadsiding (10) 2yo Colt | T: James Cummings | J: James McDonald (57.5kg) +200 with Neds Race 2: Listed South Pacific Classic (1400m) It was hard not to be impressed with the way Panic let down to score at Wyong on March 14, and although that was only a BM64, the gelding by Time Test gets his chance to prove himself at stakes level. He was forced to make a mid-race move under Tommy Berry to ensure the task was taken care of first-up, as the three-year-old did his best work late over the 1200m trip. He appears to be over the odds with online bookmakers, and with the $14.00 available, Panic is simply too good a price to ignore in the Listed South Pacific Classic (1400m). Selections: 9 PANIC 7 PORT LOCKROY 1 BUTCH CASSIDY 13 KANDINSKY ABSTRACT Best Value Race 2 – #9 Panic (4) 3yo Gelding | T: Michael Freedman | J: Tommy Berry (54kg) +1300 with PlayUp Race 3: Provincial-Midway Championships Final (1400m) The Provincial-Midway Championships Final (1400m) is a wide-open contest with form-lines converging across NSW competing for the $1 million prize. Territory Express gets the nod after a sensational runner-up performance in the Group 2 Ajax Stakes (1500m) at Rosehill on March 16, narrowly being headed in the shadows of the post by Democracy Manifest. He was a dominant winner in the Kembla Grange qualifier prior to that, and with Zac Lloyd sticking aboard this progressive galloper, watch for Territory Express to be careering down the centre of the course in the concluding stages. Selections: 8 TERRITORY EXPRESS 2 STRAIT ACER 1 TAVI TIME 15 WILLINGA BEAST Provincial-Midway Championships Final Race 3 – #8 Territory Express (8) 4yo Gelding | T: Paul Niceforo | J: Zac Lloyd (56kg) +400 with Dabble Race 4: Group 2 Percy Sykes Stakes (1200m) Eneeza was no match for Lady Of Camelot in the Group 1 Golden Slipper (1200m), however, with a 4kg weight swing in the Group 2 Percy Sykes Stakes (1200m), she can turn the tables. The daughter of Exceed And Excel was asked to extend as the widest runner last start and never shirked the task to be beaten by 2.7 lengths on the wire. Barrier six should allow star hoop Damien Lane to take a closer sit in transit, and with not much separating these, Eneeza can prove best of the girls in the 2024 Percy Sykes. Selections: 5 ENEEZA 1 LADY OF CAMELOT 3 DRIFTING 12 AMEENA Percy Sykes Stakes Race 4 – #5 Eneeza (6) 2yo Filly | T: Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman | J: Damien Lane (55kg) +450 with Bet365 Race 5: Group 2 Arrowfield 3YO Sprint (1200m) Ozzmosis completely bombed the start first-up in the Group 1 Galaxy (1100m) at Rosehill on March 23, swiftly ending his chances of adding another Group 1 on the resume. Punters should be willing to forget he went around that day, with his form prior jumping off the page as he powered away with the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) at the end of his spring campaign. He appears perfectly placed by the Bjorn Baker barn, and provided Ozzmosis can jump evenly on Saturday, he must be considered the one to beat. Selections: 1 OZZMOSIS 11 JOLIESTAR 2 ARKANSAW KID 6 SCHWARZ Arrowfield 3YO Sprint Race 5 – #1 Ozzmosis (4) 3yo Colt | T: Bjorn Baker | J: Rachel King (56.5kg) +200 with Picklebet Race 6: Group 1 Australian Oaks (2400m) Orchestral bloused her rivals in the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m) on March 30, stamping herself as the one to beat in this year’s Australian Oaks. She is searching for her sixth win on the trot for the Roger James & Robert Wellwood barn, and with her figures seemingly improving as she steps up further in trip, it’s hard to imagine the likes of Zardozi & Tutta La Vita turning the tables. Selections: 1 ORCHESTRAL 2 QUINTESSA 3 ZARDOZI 5 AUTUMN ANGEL Best Bet Race 6 – #1 Orchestral (3) 3yo Filly | T: Roger James & Robert Wellwood | J: James McDonald (56kg) -166.67 with Neds Race 7: Group 1 Sydney Cup (3200m) 17 stayers will step out in the Group 1 Sydney Cup (3200m), where the Chris Waller-trained Manzoice appears close to recapturing his best. He hit the line best of the rest in the Group 3 N E Manion Cup (2400m), and although he couldn’t match motors with Post Impressionist, the son of Almanzor managed to fend off some handy types to claim minor money for the first time since winning the 2022 VRC Derby (2500m). Manzoice won’t know himself with 51.5kg on his back, and with Zac Lloyd in the saddle from stall one, this guy represents good each-way value in the Sydney Cup. Selections: 11 MANZOICE 3 ASHRUN 12 CIRCLE OF FIRE 9 AMADE Sydney Cup Race 7 – #1 Manzoice (1) 4yo Gelding | T: Chris Waller | J: Zac Lloyd (51.5kg) +1200 with PlayUp Race 8: Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) The $5 million Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) is the headline act at Randwick and has drawn together an ultra-competitive 10-horse field. The Chris Waller-trained European import Via Sistina holds the call at $2.30 after giving her rivals a galloping lesson in the Group 1 Ranvet Stakes (2000m) last start. Pride Of Jenni is on the second line of betting at $4.00 after clinging to a runner-up spot in the Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m) at Flemington, while Cascadian ($8.50), Mr Brightside ($10.00) and Place Du Carrousel ($11.00) have all had admirers in early betting. Click here for HorseBetting’s preview of the 2024 Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes. Race 9: Group 1 Queen Of The Turf (1600m) Atishu has elected to accept for the Group 1 Queen Of The Turf rather than the Queen Elizabeth, and it should pay dividends for the Chris Waller barn. The daughter of Savabeel is a genuine miler, taking out this race last year in stylish fashion. Blake Shinn takes the reins as he did two starts back when claiming the Group 2 Blamey Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on March 2, and with a soft run assured from stall two on Saturday, Atishu can make it back-to-back wins in the Queen Of The Turf. Selections: 1 ATISHU 5 SEMANA 2 ZOUGOTCHA 7 ETERNAL FLAME Queen Of The Turf Race 9 – #1 Atishu (2) 6yo Mare | T: Chris Waller | J: Blake Shinn (57kg) +360 with Dabble Race 10: Group 2 Sapphire Stakes (1200m) The final race is for the fillies & mares, where the John O’Shea-trained Saltaire can send punters home with a winner. She was outstanding first-up chasing home Estriella in the Listed Starlight Stakes (1100m), and although she was beaten by three lengths on the wire, it was a promising effort by the daughter of Star Turn. She maps to get the run of the race from barrier two as she returns to Sydney for the first time as a three-year-old, and provided she gets the breaks at a crucial stage, Saltaire can get the job done in the Group 2 Sapphire Stakes (1200m). Selections: 14 SALTAIRE 1 RED CARD 2 C’EST MAGIQUE 3 WEE NESSY Sapphire Stakes Race 10 – #14 Saltaire (2) 3yo Filly | T: John O’Shea | J: Craig Williams (53kg) +400 with Bet365 Randwick free Saturday quaddie tips Randwick quadrella selections Saturday, April 13, 2024 1-3-7-9-10-11-12 8-10 1-2-3-5-7-14-16 1-2-3-4-14 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

What Morphettville Races Where Morphettville Racecourse – 79 Morphett Rd, Morphettville, SA 5043 When Saturday, March 13, 2024 First Race 12:17pm ACST Visit Dabble Feature racing returns to Morphettville on Saturday afternoon, with the Auraria Stakes (1800m) and R N Irwin Stakes (1100m) at Group 3 level taking top billing. The track is rated a Good 4, while the rail comes out +9m from the 1200m to the winning post and then out +5m for the remainder. The first of nine races is set to go at 12:17pm ACST. Auraria Stakes Tip: Vivy Air First-up, Vivy Air flashed home after being held up for a run at Flemington on March 9. Next time out, she seemed to struggle around Moonee Valley when third in Group 3 company on March 23. The course proper at Morphettville will suit the Hellbent filly perfectly, as she tends to take a while to get going. Once she hits top speed, Vivy Air is electric, and she should prove too hard to hold out in the Auraria Stakes. Auraria Stakes Race 7 – #5 Vivy Air (4) 3yo Filly | T: Archie Alexander | J: Zac Spain (55kg) +350 with PlayUp R N Irwin Stakes: Queman Oakleigh Plate winner Queman returns to Morphettville following a luckless run in the Group 1 William Reid Stakes (1200m) on March 23. He is a four-time winner at the Morphettville 1100m from seven attempts, and from barrier two in Saturday’s co-feature, he draws to gain a perfect run in transit. With a few of the key chances drawn out wide, Queman will have a tactical advantage over his rivals, and if he can sprint sharply, he looks the goods in the R N Irwin Stakes. R N Irwin Stakes Race 8 – #2 Queman (2) 5yo Gelding | T: Shane & Cassie Oxlade | J: Craig Newitt (58.5kg) +900 with Neds Best Bet at Morphettville: Stretan Angel The Phillip Stokes-trained Stretan Angel has two wins from two second-up runs in her career. Considering she finished three lengths off Estriella at Flemington when fresh on March 30, she looks hard to go past in the Redelva Stakes (1100m). She had plenty of excuses last time out, and despite drawing barrier one as a backmarker, Stretan Angel can win this if the breaks come her way. Best Bet Race 4 – #1 Stretan Angel (1) 3yo Filly | T: Phillip Stokes | J: Lachlan Neindorf (58kg) +260 with Picklebet Next Best at Morphettville: Rampant Lion Rampant Lion has won two of his last three starts, both by the barest of margins, but his efforts over the concluding stages of those races suggest he is right in this 1600m affair. With a genuinely run mile expected, the race looks perfectly set up for the four-year-old gelding to absorb the pressure from the rear of the field. With a strong finishing burst, Rampant Lion should prove too good for his rivals. Next Best Race 3 – #2 Rampant Lion (4) 4yo Gelding | T: Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman | J: Thomas Stockdale (60kg) +250 with Dabble Saturday quaddie tips for Morphettville Morphettville quadrella selections Saturday, April 13, 2023 1-2-3-4-5 3-4-5 1-2-10-11-13 1-5-10-13 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Talented filly No Rain Ever (No Nay Never) has yet to fully convince connections that she can be effective over more ground, and she will have the opportunity to bury any doubts on that score at Riccarton. The Waverley-trained three-year-old will tackle Saturday’s Listed NZB Insurance Stakes (1600m) off the back of an encouraging last-start effort against the older horses at Trentham. The daughter of No Nay Never and Group Two winner and multiple Group One placegetter November Rain (NZ) (Stravinsky) is prepared by Bill Thurlow, who will also have a leading stakes contender at Otaki where Whangaehu (NZ) (Proisir) will step out in the Listed Hawke’s Bay Cup (2200m). No Rain Ever has won twice at 1200m and showed her black-type quality earlier this year when third in the Listed Uncle Remus Stakes (1200m) and finished fourth in the Gr.3 Cuddle Stakes (1600m) at Trentham at her most recent outing. “She went down on Monday and is all good. We’re really happy with her and there’s no reason why she won’t run very well, she was working well and left here in great order,” Thurlow said. No Rain Ever headed south off the back of her fourth placing in the Gr.3 Cuddle Stakes (1600m) at Trentham. “She was good in the Cuddle and is a handy filly so we’re hoping she will run well again,” Thurlow said. “There is a slight question mark at the moment for me over the mile, but we’ll see how she goes back against her own age group.” A strong showing would likely see No Rain Ever step up again in the Listed NZ Bloodstock Warstep Stakes (2000m) seven days later. “If she went well enough, she would probably stay down there but we’re obviously not 100 percent certain she is a 2000m horse either,” he said. Thurlow has booked Kylie Williams for the ride on Saturday while Lisa Allpress will continue her association at Otaki with Whangaehu. The son of Proisir put together consecutive middle-distance wins at Hastings and Tauherenikau before he finished seventh, beaten 4.3l, in the Gr.2 Auckland Cup (3200m). “He went really well, but he just tugged a bit for some reason which he doesn’t normally do,” Thurlow said. “He got a bit on the chewie and that was his undoing. If he hadn’t of done that, he might have finished closer.” Whangaehu hasn’t missed a beat since Ellerslie and is expected to be competitive in an ideal assignment. “He came through it well and has been working well so no issues there at all and it seems a nice race for him,” Thurlow said. No plans have been made for Whangaehu beyond this weekend, Thurlow preferring a wait and see approach. “I haven’t made any decisions yet, it could be his last run this campaign as he’s done a pretty good job,” he said. “He’s in a nice position to maybe run in some nice handicaps in the spring and he’s not far away from a spell.” View the full article

Molly Bloom appeared at the Pukekohe trials on Tuesday ahead of her upcoming Queensland assignment. Photo: Race Images South Two of Wexford Stables’ star gallopers have taken the next step towards respective Australian features in the coming weeks. Glamour filly Molly Bloom appeared at the Pukekohe trials on Tuesday ahead of a tilt at the upcoming Queensland Carnival, and was under a strong hold by Masa Hashizume throughout the 1300m heat, finishing a narrow second. “We were really pleased with her. She was a bit above herself in the parade, being away from the races for a while, but a very quiet trial will bring her nerve rate down and condition on,” said Andrew Scott, who trains in partnership with Lance O’Sullivan. An outstanding winner of the Group 1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) in November, the daughter of Ace High collected subsequent victories in the Group 2 Eight Carat Classic (1600m) and Group 2 David & Karyn Ellis Fillies Classic (2000m). Now under the majority ownership of Australian Ozzie Kheir, Molly Bloom is set for a career across the ditch, but will first represent Wexford in the Listed Gold Coast Bracelet (1800m) on May 11. “There’s still a fair bit of improvement still to come and she’ll head back to the Te Awamutu trials on the 23rd,” Scott said. “We will let her stride out a bit more possibly over further distance to improve her fitness levels, and that should top her off before her trip to Brisbane.” Ten days out from The Quokka (1200m), Waitak has landed safely in Perth with Wexford representative and former jockey Erin Leighton, as the Group One-winning sprinter prepares to contest the $5 million slot race on April 20. “Erin Leighton has taken him over, she’s a very experienced horsewoman. He went for a quiet trot and canter this morning, and she said he’s felt strong and well within himself,” Scott said. “He’s settled in well, drunk well, and has been straight into his appetite.” A son of Proisir, Waitak burst onto the sprinting stage this year with a sensational performance in the Group 1 Railway (1200m), after a three-year-old season that included a trip to Brisbane for the Group 1 Queensland Derby (2400m). “This time last year he travelled to Brisbane and he certainly handles the travel well,” Scott said. “The main thing we focus on is recovery from travel, he lost 14kgs over the trip, but put 6 of those back on in the last 24 hours. We just let him find his feet, familiar with his new surroundings, and his condition will guide us through the next 10 days. “He was a fit horse before he left, so it’s a matter of maintaining a good healthy condition and keeping an eye on his temperature. He’s in a good place. “We may look to give him a stretch of his legs next week ahead of Saturday’s race.” Waitak will race under the Trackside Media/Perth Racing slot in The Quokka, and will partner with Queensland-based hoop Kyle Wilson-Taylor, who rode three-year-old stablemate Grail Seeker to victory in the Group 2 Wellington Guineas (1400m) last month. Horse racing news View the full article

Horse Racing on Thursday, April 11 will feature four meetings in Australia. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the best bets and provided free quaddie tips for the meetings at Wyong & Pakenham. Thursday Horse Racing Tips – April 11, 2024 Wyong Racing Tips Pakenham Racing Tips As always, there are plenty of promotions available for Australian racing fans. Check out all the top online bookmakers to see what daily promotions they have. If you are looking for a new bookmaker for the horse racing taking place on April 11, 2024, check out our guide to the best online racing betting sites. Horse racing tips View the full article