Wandering Eyes

Keeping his unbeaten record intact in style at Deauville on Tuesday, Nurlan Bizakov's Lazzat (Fr) (Territories {Ire}) made all in a G3 Prix Djebel that he turned into a war of attrition. Taken straight to the front by Antonio Orani, the Jerome Reynier-trained Listed Prix de la Californie winner stretched his rivals to breaking point, with only Keran (Fr) (Blue Point {Ire}) able top give any meaningful pursuit. At the line, the 7-10 favourite had 2 1/2 lengths to spare, with five lengths back to Devil's Point (Ire) (New Bay {GB}) in third. Pas de hic pour le favori Lazzat (Territories) qui domine le Prix Djebel (Gr3) et reste invaincu en 4 sorties pour son éleveur ⁦@sumbe_fr⁩ pic.twitter.com/j1f4rgl812 — France Galop (@francegalop) April 9, 2024 The post Territories’ Lazzat Too Strong In The Djebel appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The X-Ray Files series, now in its second year and presented in cooperation with the Consignors and Breeders Association, uses conversations with buyers and sellers to contribute to the discussion on the sales and training process. Veteran bloodstock agent Alistair Roden has found success buying for clients at all ranges of the market. Among his stakes-winning acquisitions already this year are Riley Allison Derby winner Lucky Jeremy (Lookin at Lucky) and Turfway Prevue S. winner Vote No (Divisidero), both of whom were purchased for $50,000 at last year's OBS June 2-Year-Olds in Training Sale. He was also responsible for the acquisition of subsequent graded stakes winners Abeliefinthislivin (Arrogate) and Anothertwistafate (Scat Daddy), as well as multiple graded stakes placed Tobys Heart (Jack Milton) and Ajourneytofreedom (Hard Spun). All were purchased at the 2-year-old sales. “Some of the soundest horses I have bought in my career and who have gone on to race as 5-, 6-, 7-year-olds have come from the 2-year-old sales,” Roden said. Asked what he looks for in potential juvenile purchases, Roden has a simple answer. “You want an athlete, obviously,” he said. “Sometimes at the 2-year-old sales we are inclined to give up on conformation a little bit, whereas at the yearling sales we are not because we get the advantage of seeing them come down the lane and seeing how they perform going fast.” Speed has become the name of the game at the 2-year-old sales and Roden said it is difficult to take the clock out of the buying equation. “It's gotten to be these times are unbelievable,” he said. “I bought Lucky Jeremy last year and he went in :21 1/5. But if they go in :24 or :11, it's kind of hard to get your head around it. If you call a guy up and say, 'Listen, I found this lovely horse. I really like him.' The first thing they are going to ask you when you are at the 2-year-old sale is, 'What did he work in?' If you say :11 or :22, you can feel the enthusiasm just dying in the conversation. Am I a big proponent of the speed? Probably not. But at the end of the day, that's what sells horses. That's why they are doing it. If they could sell them for $1 million and go :11 and change, they would probably do that. But obviously, they can't.” Having a vet whose work you trust is another big component of buying at the sales. “I usually find the horse and then part of the process of buying the horse is doing the vetting,” Roden said. “Sometimes I will have a little sneak at the vet report at the barn just to see if there is anything significant. I don't want to call a guy up and say I have a really nice horse and then we vet them and he flunks the vet. I have a look at the vet report just to see that there is nothing major there, or from what I can interpret, there is nothing major. And then we go through the vetting.” Lucky Jeremy | Coady Photography Roden continued, “At the end of the day, I put a lot of faith in the vets. The one vet I use, I've been using him for probably close to 20 years. You have to have faith in them, you know. And if he sends something back and says, well this horse is OK or something in the throat, but otherwise ok, or something in the knee, but he's ok with it, I will call him up and question it. That spur in the knee, do we need to worry about that? Rather than just going by what he said. I question things. I have faith in him. He has maybe been wrong a couple of times, I am sure I have been wrong a couple of times, numerous times, but that's the horse business. But I am not going to go buy a horse that has a major vet issue. I am not going to argue with the vet. Because if you're going to argue with the vet, why are you hiring him in the first place?” With three decades of experience in the industry, Roden agreed he has developed trusted relationships with many sellers, but a consignor's say-so at the sales only goes so far. “I know most of those guys down there and you always ask, 'Is this horse ok? Have you had any issues? Does he train OK?' I have that trust factor, but I am not just going to buy the horse because of that,” he explained. “I am going to do my homework. They may be friends, but they are still there to sell horses. They have to make a living selling horses and they've had those horses since last fall and they have been around them a long time. They know what's what. If they send you a horse that has a major issue, as far as training or doesn't want to train, or has a major issue and they pull the wool over your eyes, it's obviously going to come back on them. I am not going to keep it to myself. If someone is screwing me, there will be other people knowing about it. You can have it go the wrong way, it can always happen. But if someone blatantly screws you, it's a small world.” It is a buyer's prerogative to have his newest acquisition drug tested at the sale and, while he hasn't done that in the past, Roden said he is considering doing it in the future in the wake of increased scrutiny with the implementation of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority's Anti-Doping and Medication rules. “I haven't done testing because you always think, 'Will I open a whole can of worms?' The guy gave the horse two grams of bute and it's going to beat you,” Roden said. “From an agent's perspective, now, I think you almost have to do it. You have to cover yourself. If you go out and spend a couple hundred thousand dollars on a horse and he ends up testing for Clenbuterol or something, the guys on the track–like in the case off Jeff Englehart and they are going to rule the trainer off–well who is the trainer going to blame? Who is the idiot who bought the horse?” Anothertwistafate | Benoit Roden said it seemed like there was increased testing at the OBS March sale, but he questions when such testing should start. “The 2-year-old guys will say, 'Well, I didn't give the horse anything.' Maybe it came from the yearling sale. What do you do? Do you do it when the horse first goes through a sale? I am not saying that it is the right thing to do. I don't know, but you think the sales company will want to take care of buyers as well. I think [additional testing] is probably a good thing because if there is anybody doing anything at the sale, it makes them a little wary of it, maybe make them think twice.” Finding a trusted agent is important for any buyer thinking of entering the sales arena, according to Roden. “You have got to have an agent you can trust who is going to guide you in the right direction and not just go out and buy a horse just for the sake of making a commission,” he said. “You have to have somebody that you trust to start with and if you have somebody you trust, you are hoping that he has a team around him that he trusts.” To read the first installment of the 2024 X-Files season with David Scanlon, click here. To search the 2023 season, click here. The post The X-Files, Season 2: Alistair Roden appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Juan Hernandez topped the riding standings and Chief Stipe O'Neill was the top trainer at Santa Anita's 46-day Classic Meet which concluded Sunday. For Hernandez, a 32-year-old native of Veracruz, Mexico, this was his fifth riding title at Santa Anita. He finished with 53 wins from 245 mounts and also led all jockeys in earnings with $3,683,348. “I just want to say thank you to everybody for all the support,” Hernandez said. “All the owners, trainers and all the people on the backside. The grooms, the gallop boys, because they do a lot of hard work over there and I only do the easy part. I'm really happy and I'm going to try to keep working hard.” O'Neill won the trainer's title with 30 wins from 163 starts. He finished one win ahead of Mark Glatt. This was O'Neill's ninth Santa Anita trainer's title and first since the 2021 Autumn Meet. “It is all the result of just great owners, great horses, great staff and a lot of luck,” said O'Neill. “I'm just grateful to be at the Great RIP. I'm grateful to work alongside a lot of great men and women that have the same passion that I do. I'm just happy to work alongside horses. It is truly an honor.” Hronis Racing narrowly won the owner's title with 11 wins at the Classic Meet, one more than Reddam Racing. Racing resumes at Santa Anita Apr. 19 with the start of the Hollywood Meet.H The post Hernandez, O’Neill Top Standings at Santa Anita Classic Meet appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Godolphin's Listed Bosra Sham Fillies' S. victrix Romantic Style (Ire) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}–Sweet Dream {Fr}, by Dream Ahead) made her seasonal return a successful one and downed 'TDN Rising Star' Ramatuelle (Justify) to become connections' first winner, in a thrilling renewal, of Deauville's G3 Prix Imprudence. The 37-10 third favourite, who shed maiden status at Great Yarmouth in September, was positioned second in the far-side group and raced in an overall fifth through halfway in this seven-furlong distaffers' Guineas trial. Looming large out wide with 300 metres remaining, she quickened to the fore entering the final furlong and kept on strongly under stern urging to withstand the late rally of Ramatuelle by a half-length for a career high. Last term's G3 Prix Miesque victrix and long-time leader Tamfana (Ger) (Soldier Hollow {GB}) provided solidity to the form and finished another half-length adrift in third. “We had a nice race, but she was a bit fresh early,” reflected William Buick. “She's quite speedy, she has a good turn of foot and used it at the finish. It was a good performance and she'll have to go up to a mile now. She's a good filly and, hopefully, she'll keep progressing.” Charlie Appleby is very much leaning in the direction of Paris and ruled out any temptation to remain at home for Romantic Style's next start. “I don't think she'd see out the mile [of the 1000 Guineas] at Newmarket, so we thought we'd be better off coming here as it gives her more time between now and the [May 12 G1 Poule d'Essai des] Pouliches. She's got natural pace in her pedigree, but she gives herself a chance to stay the mile and that will be the aim. What I loved about today is she did everything the right way around. She travelled and she travelled sensibly in behind horses. When she picked up I felt she was always doing enough to stay in front.” Christopher Head was far from downcast after the defeat of G1 Prix Morny second Ramatuelle and confirmed next month's G1 1000 Guineas remains the number one target. “You always have worries when you are not sure if they have trained on from two to three and that was a very positive return. On such [deep] ground you can easily sink after doing too much too early, but she kept finding again at the end. That was most encouraging and, if all is well, we shall stick to the plan and go to Newmarket for the [May 5 G1] 1000 [Guineas].” Tamfana's trainer David Menuisier has yet to commit to a specific target, but it will be a Classic route for the third-place finisher. “That was a very good reintroduction for her. It is not easy to make all like that from the centre of the track. We have now to decide if we go to Newmarket for the [May 5 G1 1000] Guineas or Longchamp for the French equivalent [May 12 G1 Poule d'Essai des Pouliches].” One for the boys in blue! Romantic Style grinds it out under William Buick for Charlie Appleby and sees off Ramatuelle in the G3 Prix Imprudence at @fgdeauville… pic.twitter.com/htjjuzOwKl — At The Races (@AtTheRaces) April 9, 2024 Pedigree Notes Romantic Style is the second foal and black-type scorer out of G3 Prix Miesque winner Sweety Dream (Fr) (Dream Ahead), herself a daughter of G3 Prix Cleopatre third Excellent Girl (GB) (Exceed And Excel {Aus}). Descendants of Excellent Girl, who is a half-sister to G3 R A Lee S. victor Fastnet Tempest (Ire) (Fastnet Rock {Aus}), include the stakes-winning Easter (Fr) (Exosphere {Aus}), Listed Criterium de Lyon third Roccia Nera (Fr) (Dream Ahead) and stakes-winning G3 Topkapi Trophy third Peekaboo (Ire) (Toronado {Ire}). The March-foaled chestnut is kin to Listed Brigids Pastures victrix Are We Dreaming (Ire) (Kendargent {Fr}), a 2-year-old filly by Earthlight (Ire) and a yearling colt by Space Blues (Ire). Tuesday, Deauville, France PRIX IMPRUDENCE-G3, €80,000, Deauville, 4-9, 3yo, f, 7fT, 1:31.95, vhy. 1–ROMANTIC STYLE (IRE), 126, f, 3, by Night Of Thunder (Ire) 1st Dam: Sweety Dream (Fr) (GSW-Fr), by Dream Ahead 2nd Dam: Excellent Girl (GB), by Exceed And Excel (Aus) 3rd Dam: Dame Blanche (Ire), by Be My Guest 1ST GROUP WIN. (€240,000 Wlg '21 GOFNO1; 550,000gns Ylg '22 TATOCT). O-Godolphin; B-Wansdyke Farms, SH Bloodstock, J Burke & Oghill (IRE); T-Charlie Appleby; J-William Buick. €40,000. Lifetime Record: SW-Eng, 4-3-0-0, €71,633. *1/2 to Are We Dreaming (Ire) (Kendargent {Fr}), SW-Ire. Werk Nick Rating: A+. Click for the eNicks report & 5-cross pedigree, or the free Equineline.com catalogue-style pedigree. 2–Ramatuelle, 126, f, 3, Justify–Raven's Lady (GB), by Raven's Pass. (€100,000 Ylg '22 ARQAUG). O-Infinity Nine Horses, Ecurie des Monceaux, Hollymount Stud France SC, Chun Wai Kwok, Arthur Hoyeau, Mme Ilse Smits & Clement Tropres; B-Yeguada Centurion SLU (KY); T-Christopher Head. €16,000. 3–Tamfana (Ger), 126, f, 3, Soldier Hollow (GB)–Tres Magnifique (Fr), by Zoffany (Ire). (€20,000 Ylg '22 BBAGS). O-QRL VIII & Friends; B-Gestut Etzean & Hans-Helmut Rodenburg (GER); T-David Menuisier. €12,000. Margins: HF, HF, 2. Odds: 3.70, 0.90, 3.40. Also Ran: Great Generation (Ire), Shady Lady (Fr), Abstract (Fr), Alabama Moon (Fr). Video, sponsored by FanDuel TV. The post Romantic Style Downs TDN Rising Star Ramatuelle in Deauville’s Prix Imprudence appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

StableConnect has become a sponsorship partner of Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association. Founded by Jonathan Romeo, StableConnect is dedicated to driving engagement within syndicates and uses a patent-pending, mobile-first approach to centralize access to horse information, enhance syndicate communications, better connect partners, and enable frictionless syndicate transactions. “We are excited to welcome StableConnect as a TOBA sponsor,” said TOBA president Dan Metzger. “With the growth of racing partnerships throughout our sport over the past decade, StableConnect provides an ideal and invaluable resource for managing the Thoroughbred ownership experience. TOBA is honored to partner with a company whose goal is to provide exceptional service to partnerships and owners and their support of our sport is greatly appreciated.” Romeo added, “The team at StableConnect is proud to partner with TOBA. All of us at StableConnect are passionate Thoroughbred racing fans with ownership stakes in horses like Goodnight Olive and Tiz the Law. Our love of this sport has inspired us to create a robust communication platform for owners, trainers and stable managers everywhere. With the demand for instant updates and information in our industry, the complexities of day-to-day management and communication have become more rigorous and time consuming. StableConnect puts your stable in the palm of your hand with up-to-date race and workout information, live-streaming and more so that managing partners can focus on more trips to the winner's circle.” The post StableConnect Becomes TOBA Sponsor appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Ben Hayes said Mr Brightside (NZ) (Bullbars) is set to be a big improver in Saturday’s Gr.1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Randwick, despite drawing the extreme outside barrier for the A$5 million feature on Tuesday morning. Hayes said after Mr Brightside drew 11 of 11 runners that the keys to an improved performance from the horse will be the prospect of a softer track at Randwick and the firm knowledge of how the race is likely to pan out. “He has hasn’t had much luck with those wide draws but with this track, to ride him cold isn’t bad,” Hayes told Sky Thoroughbred Racing moments after the draw. “He won a Doncaster from a wide draw, his first one, and we’ll just let him balance and we’ll see him hit the line really strong. “There is no pressure at all. We know it will be a fast-run race and he’ll really enjoy a bit of give in the track. “The Good (3) in the Australian Cup, he felt the ground a little bit, so a bit of give in the track, expect improvement from him. “He actually hasn’t been on a Soft track since he won the Doncaster. “We’re really happy with him. He just felt the track a bit and we really monitored him and had a good chat with the whole team and the way he came out of it, there are no problems. “His work yesterday at the farm was excellent. He’s bright and happy.” There were 11 final acceptors for Sydney’s premier weight-for-age race, with last week’s Australian Derby runner-up Ceolwulf (NZ) (Tarzino) set to back-up against the older horses. Imported mare Via Sistina (barrier five) is a hot favourite for the race off the back of her impressive win in her Australian debut in the G1 Ranvet Stakes (2000m) last month. View the full article

Having promised a lot and finally delivering, Climbing Star (NZ) (Zoustar) is heading back to Adelaide in search of another Stakes race victory. Breaking through for her maiden Stakes win in the Listed Matrice Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville on March 23, Climbing Star, who races in the colours of breeder and co-owner Qatar Bloodstock, will on Saturday contest the Gr.3 R N Irwin Stakes (1100m) at that same venue. Pakenham-based trainer Phillip Stokes, who also has a stable at Morphettville, said it was not ideal to be dropping back in distance, but added it was the only suitable option for the mare. “It’s not ideal, but we haven’t done much with her,” Stokes said. “It’s the right race for her as there wasn’t one here for her.” A debut winner in maiden grade at Cranbourne in September 2022, Climbing Star ran in six Stakes races at her next 10 appearances prior to taking out the Matrice Stakes. Stokes said he had finally worked out Climbing Star was a sprinter, rather than a 1400m to 1600m galloper, races he had previously been trying to win with the mare. View the full article

The catalogue for NZB’s 2024 National Online Yearling Sale features the progeny of a diverse range of sires, from established stars to newer names with reputations on a rapid rise. The 100-lot catalogue features no fewer than 46 different stallions, including Almanzor, Written Tycoon, and emerging star sires like Satono Aladdin and Super Seth to name a few. ACE HIGH Ace High Himself the winner of the Group One Victoria Derby (2500m) and Spring Champion Stakes (2000m), High Chaparral stallion Ace High stands for a $10,000 service fee at Rich Hill Stud. He currently sits in second on New Zealand’s second-season sires’ premiership, with nine winners from 24 runners this season earning a total of $887,715. Ace High’s first two crops have so far produced a total of 13 winners from 35 runners. Star three-year-old filly Molly Bloom (NZ) has been a clear headline act, winning four races including the Group One New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m), Group Two Eight Carat Classic (1600m) and Group Two David & Karyn Ellis Fillies’ Classic (2000m). Drakaina (NZ) won last month’s Listed NZB Airfreight Stakes (1400m), while My Lips Are Sealed (NZ) has placed at Group Three level. Four Ace High yearlings were sold during Book 1 of Karaka 2024 earlier this year with an average price of $163,750. Among them were a colt bought for $280,000 by Wexford Stables, who have enjoyed such a special season with Molly Bloom. Another colt went to Australia’s Proven Thoroughbreds and Pride Racing for $220,000. The NZB National Online Yearling Sale features five progeny of Ace High, including: Lot 16, a filly whose unraced dam Kiara (NZ) (Pentire) is a full-sister to 10-time Group One winner (King) Mufhasa (NZ) (Pentire). Group One winners (The) Bostonian (NZ) (Jimmy Choux) and Kovalica (NZ) (Ocean Park) are also close relatives, along with big-race performers Sacred Satono (NZ) (Satono Aladdin) and Cheval d’Or (NZ) (Almanzor). Lot 49, a daughter of the stakes-winning Zabeel mare Royal Era (NZ). Lot 96, a filly out of an unraced full-sister to Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m) winner Ockham’s Razor (NZ) (Any Suggestion). CONTRIBUTER Contributer The often under-rated Contributer is having a breakthrough season, moving into the top 10 on the New Zealand sires’ premiership and the top 100 in Australia. The Mapperley Stud stallion, who was a multiple Group One winner on the racetrack for Godolphin, has been represented by a total of 97 winners from just 140 runners. Contributer’s nine individual stakes winners include Group One winners on both sides of the Tasman. Lion’s Roar (NZ) was the first on the board, winning the Randwick Guineas (1600m) in 2021, while Campionessa (NZ) has had an outstanding campaign this season with victories in the Group One Zabeel Classic (2050m) and three Group Twos including the Peter Young Stakes (1800m) in Melbourne. Contributer has had five Group winners and four black-type placegetters this season, with Campionessa backed up by Group Two Autumn Stakes (1400m) winner Snow Patrol (NZ) and Group Three wins by Lion’s Roar, Maria Farina (NZ) and Contribute (NZ). Standing for a service fee of $18,000 last spring, Contributer averaged $149,000 with his Book 1 yearlings at Karaka 2024. They sold for up to $260,000 and were bought by the likes of Wexford Stables, Pike Racing, John Chalmers Bloodstock, Upper Bloodstock, Bruce Perry Bloodstock and Barneswood Farm. Contributer is the sire of three yearlings in the National Online Yearling Sale, including Lot 34, whose three-time winning dam Miss Lioness (NZ) (Johar) is a half-sister to the multiple Group One winner Lion Tamer (NZ) (Storming Home). HELLO YOUMZAIN Hello Youmzain A multiple Group One-winning sprinter including in the prestigious Diamond Jubilee Stakes (1200m) at Royal Ascot, the arrival of shuttle stallion Hello Youmzain at Cambridge Stud generated plenty of buzz. That excitement has only grown since then, with 34 of Hello Youmzain’s first-crop yearlings selling during Book 1 of Karaka 2024 for an average of $171,324. A top price of $425,000 was paid by Chris Waller and Mulcaster Bloodstock for a half-brother to stakes winner Never Back Down (Kodiac), while the other purchasers of Hello Youmzain yearlings included David Ellis, Richard and Will Freedman, Darby Racing, Mick Price, Lindsay Park, Go Racing, Stephen Marsh, John O’Shea, Phill Cataldo and Busuttin Young Racing. Five colts by Hello Youmzain feature in the National Online Yearling Sale catalogue, including: Lot 50, whose dam is a half-sister to Group One winner Stratum Star (Stratum) and the multiple Group winner and stallion prospect Prague (Redoute’s Choice). Lot 53, a beautifully bred colt out of Sara Ann (NZ) (Stravinsky). That makes this colt a half-brother to four stakes performers including Group One Australian Derby (2400m) hero Tavago (NZ) (Tavistock), while Sara Ann is a full-sister to the Group Two winner and Group One-placed La Sizeranne (NZ) (Stravinsky) and a blood-sister to the dam of champion sprinter Lankan Rupee (Redoute’s Choice). Lot 95, a half-brother to Arrogant (NZ) (Ocean Park) who ran second and was beaten by a nose by The Autumn Sun in the Group One Rosehill Guineas (2000m). The dam of this colt is a half-sister herself to stakes-performers Needle And Thread (NZ) (Makfi) and Savile Row (NZ) (Makfi). SHOCKING Shocking The last few weeks have brought remarkable success for the Melbourne Cup (3200m) and Australian Cup (2000m) winner Shocking, who stands for a $12,500 service fee at Rich Hill Stud. El Vencedor (NZ) became his fourth Group One winner with a bold front-running performance in the Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) at Ellerslie on March 9, while rising star stayer Mark Twain (NZ) burst into Melbourne Cup contention with a stunning come-from-behind win in last Saturday’s A$500,000 Listed Roy Higgins (2600m) at Flemington. Overall, Shocking has been credited with 209 winners from 374 runners. His 24 individual stakes winners are headed by the multiple Group One winner and A$8m earner I’m Thunderstruck (NZ). Shocking has a bumper representation of seven yearlings in the catalogue for the National Online Yearling Sale, including: Lot 37, a filly out of Musigny (Reset), who placed at Listed level and is the dam of the Group Two performers Jimmy Lincoln (NZ) (Jimmy Choux) and Amor Fati (NZ) (Showcasing). Lot 66, a half-sister to the stakes-winning mare Sitarist (NZ) (Road to Rock). But those are far from the only notable stallions represented in the catalogue. There are also progeny of proven star Ocean Park (NZ), along with up-and-comers U S Navy Flag and War Decree and first-crop sires Ancient Spirit, Circus Maximus, Tagaloa and King’s Legacy, to name a few. Graduates of this relatively new sale have already had multiple successes on the racetrack, with the inaugural 2021 sale graduates’ boastings a 44% winners to runners strike rate, including stakes performers such as Contagious (NZ) (Prosir) and Bolshoi Star (NZ) (Russian Revolution). The Sale also offers the last chance for buyers to secure a Karaka Millions eligible yearling, with all horses offered eligible to be entered in the $2.9m series. The catalogue is live on Gavelhouse Plus now, with bidding opening on Friday 12 April, and closing from 6pm (NZT) on Wednesday 17 April. View the catalogue, register to buy and bid online here. View the full article

With the jumps season fast approaching, Dylan Mcdonagh has been a welcome addition to the depleted New Zealand jumps jockey riding ranks in the last week. The 29-year-old Irishman arrived in the country last Thursday and made an instant impact when winning his first race aboard No Bizz at Wanganui last Friday for new employers Paul Nelson and Corrina McChief Stipeal. “I arrived at 9am on Thursday. Paul threw me up on a horse when I got back to the farm and then I headed to the races on Friday,” Mcdonagh said. “The eyes were hanging out of my head with tiredness, it took 31 hours altogether to get here, but you couldn’t ask for a better start.” Initially set to ride in Australia over the jumps season, visa issues meant that was no longer an option, and Mcdonagh decided he would then try his luck in New Zealand. “I was meant to ride in Australia over the jumps season. I applied for the visa too late and I had seen Paul had advertised for a jumps jockey. I spoke a bit with Aaron Kuru (jumps jockey) and I have ended up here,” McDonagh said. “I am just going to take it as it comes, ride out the season for as long as I can and then go travelling and see a bit of the country before I head back home.” Mcdonagh doesn’t hail from a racing family and said it was by chance that he ended up in a career as a jockey, which has taken him all over the world. “I have always loved horses, but I don’t have a horsey background, my family aren’t in racing and don’t have anything to do with racing,” he said. “I was very lucky and I got the opportunity to go to England where I learned to ride a week after my 16th birthday. “It has been a blessing in disguise being put into this industry. It has been hard, but it has taken me to places that I would have never seen. “I was a jumps jockey in England, America and Australia, and I managed to ride winners in all of those countries. I have enjoyed them all as much as each other.” While he has enjoyed a career in the saddle, Mcdonagh said he is now at the stage of his career where he is looking to transition in training, and is eyeing a move to the United States to commence that dream. “I think this season will be my last racing unless something magical happens,” he said. “My long-term goal is training, I have always wanted to train horses since I figured out what I am doing (in racing). “I think I may head to America to try and train. I spent a bit of time in Virginia, Maryland and Pennysylvania. I think Maryland was my favourite place, but I wouldn’t rule out checking out Kentucky and a few other places.” While training is where he sees his future, Mcdonagh is looking forward to riding in New Zealand over the next few months and will be looking to extend his 100 percent record in the country when he heads to Woodville on Friday. “I have two rides at Woodville,” he said. “I don’t know too much about the maiden (Sandy Lane) of Craig Lupton’s. I have watched the replay and he looks like he goes okay. “In the 65 I have got one for Paul and Corrina, Rhodesian, he should go alright hopefully. I sat on him today and he feels in good order. I think he likes the ground a bit softer than what it is at the minute, but we are forecast for rain on Friday, which should suit. But regardless, I think he should be a chance.” View the full article

The Goffs Spring HIT/PTP Sale, set to be held May 22-23 at Doncaster, will feature a dispersal of five National Hunt horses owned by Steve Parkin's Clipper Logistics, the operation that has enjoyed Grade 1 success over jumps with the likes of Morning Assembly (Ire) (Shantou) and Draconien (Fr) (Linda's Lad {GB}). The five horses include the Henry de Bromhead-trained Mossy Fen Park (Ire) (Walk In The Park {Ire}), who was last seen filling the runner-up spot in a Grade 2 novice hurdle at Fairyhouse, finishing three places ahead of Pat Fahy's Champane Admiral (Ire) (Mount Nelson {GB}) who is also set to be sold. The dispersal is completed by Western Diego (Ire) (Westerner {GB}) and Sporting Glory (Ire) (Fame And Glory {GB}), who finished third and fourth, respectively, in another Grade 2 novice hurdle at Fairyhouse's Easter Festival last time, plus Special Cadeau (GB) (Nathaniel {Ire), runner-up in a Naas maiden hurdle on his most recent outing for Willie Mullins. The annual Million In Mind dispersal also promises to be a highlight of the Spring Sale, which typically features a bumper offering of National Hunt horses-in-training and point-to-point graduates. Entries are being taken until Friday, April 26, with the catalogue available online from Friday, May 3. The post Clipper Logistics to Hold National Hunt Dispersal at Doncaster appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Chris Waller looks poised to claim another Group 1 victory in the Queen of the Turf Stakes 2024 this Saturday at Royal Randwick. Zougotcha chases back-to-back Group 1 Sydney wins when she lines-up favourite in the 2024 Queen Of The Turf Stakes field this weekend. Photo: Steve Hart. Zougotcha, the stable’s star four-year-old, is the current favorite at $3.80 with Ladbrokes. This year’s Queen of the Turf Stakes (1600m) is one of the four elite-level races featured on Day 2 of The Championships in Sydney. Waller boasts four entries, with Zougotcha leading the charge. Originally slated to run in the Doncaster Mile last weekend, Zougotcha was scratched due to the heavy track conditions. This Queen of the Turf Stakes entry presents a golden opportunity for the Zoustar mare to secure her third consecutive win. Zougotcha boasts an impressive record at Randwick (three wins from seven starts), and jockey James McDonald retains the ride. Starting from the coveted inside barrier (one), the pair is a formidable force to be reckoned with. Waller has additional contenders in the race, including the reigning champion Atishu. A back-to-back victory for Atishu would mark a historic feat, with More Joyous (2011-2012) the latest to achieve this accomplishment in the Queen of the Turf Stakes. However, Atishu is also entered in the Group 1 $5 million Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m), so a final decision on her participation awaits. Waller’s other entries are Olentia ($9) and Madame Pommery ($51). Olentia, another talented four-year-old by Zoustar, has strong recent form, including a dominant win in the Group 2 Emancipation Stakes. The challenge for Zougotcha won’t be insignificant. Tropical Squall ($7), trained by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, is a strong contender. This filly by Prized Icon finished a close fourth to Zougotcha in the Coolmore Classic, and a better barrier draw this time around (three) could give her an edge. Co-trainer Waterhouse has a rich history in the Queen of the Turf Stakes, boasting eight victories, and will be looking to add another with Tropical Squall. Other notable entries include Makarena ($9), representing Team Hawkes. The Queen of the Turf Stakes promises an exciting race, with Zougotcha aiming to maintain her winning streak and Waller strategizing for potential glory. 2024 Queen Of The Turf Stakes Field No Last 10 Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight Probable Weight Penalty Hcp Rating 1 x52021x813 ATISHU (NZ) Chris Waller Blake Shinn 2 57kg 114 2 419x646x11 ZOUGOTCHA Chris Waller James McDonald 1 57kg 112 3 x501119213 CAMPIONESSA (NZ) Mark Walker Opie Bosson 13 57kg 109 4 50x7527x83 RUTHLESS DAME (NZ) Ciaron Maher Ms Jamie Kah 16 57kg 109 5 21215×2112 SEMANA Ciaron Maher Dylan Gibbons (a) 4 57kg 107 6 x15800x241 OLENTIA Chris Waller Tommy Berry 10 57kg 105 7 x15x515411 ETERNAL FLAME (NZ) Michael Kent Damian Lane 6 57kg 104 8 16x0301x48 FOXY FRIDA Andrew Noblet Billy Egan 15 57kg 103 9 4x5120x873 RENAISSANCE WOMAN (NZ) Bjorn Baker Joshua Parr 7 57kg 103 10 7x28047x30 MADAME POMMERY Chris Waller Nash Rawiller 12 57kg 102 11 344x032x21 OSMOSE (FR) Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Tim Clark 11 57kg 101 12 17420×0507 BARBIE’S FOX Ben, Will & JD Hayes Mark Zahra 9 57kg 99 13 353x530x30 MORE SECRETS Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes 5 57kg 95 14 1x13120x14 TROPICAL SQUALL Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Adam Hyeronimus 3 54.5kg 104 15 x1165x7052 ARCTIC GLAMOUR Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou Jason Collett 14 54.5kg 93 16 211×2524 MAKARENA Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes Tyler Schiller 8 54.5kg 92 17 x11169x688 TIZ INVINCIBLE Ciaron Maher Zac Lloyd (a) 17 54.5kg 92 Table Credit: Racing Australia. This page and the written content within it were partially generated using AI or automated technology and edited and verified by our editorial team. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. The post Zougotcha Leads 2024 Queen of the Turf Charge for Waller Stable appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

John Stewart's Resolute Racing has purchased this year's GII Pegasus Filly and Mare Turf Invitational S. winner Didia (Arg) (Orpen), he told the TDN in a text message. He will race her in partnership with her owners, John Moores's and Charles Noell's Merriebelle Stable. Didia is entered in this Saturday's GI Jenny Wiley S. at Keeneland. “I have a ranking system I use and she was at the top,” said Stewart. “I have been trying to buy her for four months. The agreement is for me to buy her. I pay half now and half when she retires and we race her together from this weekend at Keeneland.” Didia, also the winner of the GII Rodeo Drive S. at Santa Anita and the GIII Modesty S. at Churchill, was also second in the GI New York S. at Belmont Park. In her native Argentina, the now six-year-old was a two-time Group 1 winner. She arrived in the U.S. in 2022, and won six of eight starts since that time, bringing her lifetime record to 10 of 15 lifetime starts. She has earned just over $1 million. The post Stewart’s Resolute Racing Buys Into Pegasus F&M Turf Winner Didia appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Orchestral, the star Kiwi filly, is poised to extend her winning streak in Saturday’s 2024 Australian Oaks, one of the feature races on Day 2 of The Championships at Randwick. New Zealander Orchestral dominates 2024 Australian Oaks betting to extend her winning streak to six straight this Saturday in Sydney. Photo: Steve Hart. Currently sitting atop Australian Oaks betting at $1.80 with Ladbrokes, she is heavily favoured to claim victory. Trained by Roger James and Robert Wellwood, Orchestral has been nothing short of dominant. She boasts a five-race winning streak, including a nearly four-length victory over the boys in the Group 1 NZ Derby (2400m) back in New Zealand. Her successful Australian debut came on March 30th, where she secured a win in the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m) at Rosehill. This impressive performance showcased her readiness for the challenge of the Australian Oaks (2400m). Master jockey James McDonald retains the ride on Orchestral, who will be starting from barrier three in a compact ten-horse field. Their combined talent makes them a formidable force, with the chance to etch their names in history by achieving the Vinery Stud Stakes – Australian Oaks double for the first time since Hungry Heart (2021). While Orchestral enjoys favouritism, the challenge won’t be without its merits. Zardozi, trained by James Cummings, represents the biggest threat at $3.50. Donning the Godolphin silks, she captured the VRC Oaks (2400m) during the spring and now sets her sights on the interstate double. Tom Marquand will be in the saddle for Zardozi, who finished a close third (only 1.35 lengths behind) in the Vinery Stud. With this recent encounter under her belt, Zardozi has the potential to push Orchestral hard. Another contender to watch is Tutta La Vita, runner-up in the Vinery Stud. Trained by Chris Waller, she boasts impressive breeding but has yet to secure a win over a distance greater than 1400m. Currently priced at $8, she could potentially hand Waller his fifth Australian Oaks victory. Other notable entries include the in-form Autumn Angel ($7) on the quick back-up after carrying a hefty 61kg to run second in the Adrian Knox last start and the in-fomr New Zealand visitor Quintessa ($15). The stage is set for a thrilling Australian Oaks, with Orchestral aiming to solidify her dominance and potentially etch her name alongside racing greats. 2024 Australian Oaks Field No Last 10 Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight Probable Weight Penalty Hcp Rating 1 1x0x211111 ORCHESTRAL (NZ) Roger James & Robert Wellwood James McDonald 3 56kg 108 2 x11x221442 QUINTESSA (NZ) Mark Walker Opie Bosson 2 56kg 105 3 007121×013 ZARDOZI James Cummings Tom Marquand 9 56kg 102 4 1x6734x372 TUTTA LA VITA Chris Waller Nash Rawiller 7 56kg 96 5 2x1331x612 AUTUMN ANGEL Peter G Moody & Katherine Coleman Mark Zahra 8 56kg 88 6 21833×826 BASILINNA (NZ) Emma-Lee & David Browne Blake Shinn 6 56kg 82 7 61411 DANCES WITH HOOVES Cameron Crockett 4 56kg 65 8 44×317 PIPLUP Brad Widdup Jason Collett 10 56kg 59 9 431218 TRUE FAIRY Daiki Chujo Noriyuki Masuda 1 56kg 58 10 8×7825337 BUSH GIRL Kerry Parker Jay Ford 5 56kg 57 Table Credit: Racing Australia. This page and the written content within it were partially generated using AI or automated technology and edited and verified by our editorial team. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. The post Orchestral Odds-On Favourite to Conquer Australian Oaks 2024 appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

What Pakenham Races Where Pakenham Racecourse – 420 Nar Nar Goon–Longwarry Rd, Tynong VIC 3813 When Thursday, April 11, 2024 First Race 5:15pm AEST Visit Dabble Another bumper night of racing at Pakenham awaits on Thursday evening. The track is a Soft 6 due to consistent rain, while the rail sits in its true position. The first on the eight-race card is set to go at 5:15pm AEST. Best Bet at Pakenham: Pure Paradise Having finished three lengths off Sassy Boom in Group 3 company last time out, Pure Paradise is sure to appreciate the drop back to Class 1 company. The three-year-old filly was badly held up for a run at Caulfield, but once clear, she was hitting the line nicely. Barrier one is a slight concern, but with Blake Shinn on board, Pure Paradise should have too much class on her side against this lot. Best Bet Race 5 – #1 Pure Paradise (1) 3yo Filly | T: Lloyd Kennewell & Lucy Yeomans | J: Blake Shinn (58.5kg) Bet with Neds Next Best at Pakenham: Disco Prince Disco Prince caught the eye when running home strongly to finish second on debut at Ballarat on March 24. Having only got warm in the final 200m, the step up to the mile from 1400m looks ideal. Blake Shinn will look to have him settled midfield with cover, and armed with a strong enough turn of foot, Disco Prince should prove too good for maiden company. Next Best Race 4 – #5 Disco Prince (11) 3yo Gelding | T: Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young | J: Blake Shinn (59kg) Bet with Picklebet Best Value at Pakenham: Bob The Horse Having won his last two starts, there is no reason the John Moloney-trained Bob The Horse cannot bring up another triumph. Jumping from barrier 10, the six-year-old gelding will look to find the rail, where he can then dictate proceedings. He stays at the mile for his fourth run of the campaign, and despite needing to lug 60.5kg, Bob The Horse looks hard to gun down in the last. Best Value Race 8 – #2 Bob The Horse (10) 6yo Gelding | T: John Moloney | J: Teo Nugent (60.5kg) Bet with PlayUp Thursday quaddie tips for Pakenham Pakenham quadrella selections Thursday, April 11, 2024 1 1-2-3-4 3-4-7 2-4-6-8-11 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Dual Group One winner La Crique (NZ) (Vadamos) has certainly been a test of patience for trainers Simon and Katrina Alexander, with the couple faced with their sternest test with the mare in the last couple of weeks. Fresh off recording her second elite-level victory in the Gr.1 Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m) in February, the daughter of Vadamos was a heavily supported favourite heading into last month’s Gr.1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) at Ellerslie but was forced to scratch following issues relating to a longstanding foot issue. “It was really disappointing having to scratch out of the Breeders’ Stakes. We fought hard to get her there, but it just wasn’t going to happen,” Katrina Alexander said. “It is the same foot issue. It started off as a blowout through the coronet and as the foot has grown down, we have had hoof wall separation. It is just a case of moisture and debris gets in and then causes a bacteria build-up. “We got the vet and farrier together yesterday and there is always an evolving plan with her. We have come to the conclusion that we really need to stop patching her foot up and keep her on track. It is now or never that we need to get it right, so we did a bit of work on her yesterday, changed her shoeing, and had some other ideas in the pot.” La Crique returned to work this morning following a 10-day freshen-up and Alexander was rapt with how she felt under saddle. “We hadn’t had a saddle on her back since scratching her until this morning,” she said. “I am very happy to say that when I rode her this morning she felt as good as what she has since the Group One that she won (Otaki WFA). “We just have to keep that (foot) clean and tidy as the hoof wall grows down and stop that separation from happening. “She felt very good to sit on this morning, so hopefully we can keep going now.” While it has been a frustrating process for the Alexanders, they have found La Crique’s racetrack success incredibly rewarding, and they are hoping to build on her record of seven wins and seven placings from just 18 starts, and nearly $1 million in prizemoney. The Queensland Winter Carnival was the primary objective for La Crique this preparation, and the husband-and-wife duo are hopeful they can still get their mare across the Tasman. “I have lost a lot of sleep in the process of having her, but when you get her right she is so rewarding,” Alexander said. “If we can just keep her sound for a period of time that would be great. Ideally we would still like to get to Brisbane but we will just have to wait and see. “Technically she has only had 10 days of not being ridden, so that was a nice freshen-up for her and we know she doesn’t take much to come to hand. If we can keep her sound and happy, hopefully we can keep going through the winter. “If we had managed to get to the Breeders’ Stakes we had a plan going through that we had mapped out quite nicely. I dare not make plans at the moment, so we will just see how we go.” Meanwhile, Alexander is looking forward to resuming stablemate Midnight Scandal (NZ) (Belardo) in the Ellerslie Events 1200, with an eye towards winter racing. “She always gives 110 percent and has just been unlucky in the past. She seems to enjoy being a front-running horse and gets into a nice rhythm,” she said. “We have given her a freshen-up and she is kicking off again. It is probably a bit short for her but she hasn’t had a trial this time heading into the races and with the trials programme I thought we would give her a look at Ellerslie and see how she comes out of that. She is a better horse right-handed and there just wasn’t a lot of right-handed options for her. “Whatever she does she will get a lot of improvement from. Her work has been very good, she has always been a good track worker. She is a stronger mare this time round and has benefitted from the spell. She is looking good going into the winter where she will appreciate a bit of cut in the track. “Without stereotyping them, a lot of the Belardos have shown they do like a bit of cut in the track and she is certainly one of them. I have never had her on a heavy track before because she has just been a little bit weak and has taken a little bit of time to furnish and I didn’t want to force that issue too much in deeper ground. “I am hoping at this part of the season she will get to come through on tracks in the Soft range, which will be ideal for her.” View the full article

The stage is set for another potential master feat by champion trainer Chris Waller as he targets his sixth victory in the prestigious Queen Elizabeth Stakes this Saturday. Ranvet Stakes winner Via Sistina heads 2024 Queen Elizabeth Stakes betting to make it two-from-two down under. Photo: Steve Hart. Waller will saddle up the race favourite, Via Sistina, in the $5 million Sydney feature race on Day 2 of The Championships at Royal Randwick. This year’s Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) boasts a competitive field of eleven, with Waller boasting an impressive five runners, led by the imported mare Via Sistina. James McDonald, in top form this autumn, retains the ride on Via Sistina after their successful partnership in the Group 1 Ranvet Stakes (2000m) at Rosehill on March 23. Following her dominant Australian debut, the six-year-old mare currently sits atop Queen Elizabeth Stakes odds at $2.40 with Ladbrokes. If victorious, Via Sistina would emulate Avilius (2019) by achieving the coveted Ranvet Stakes – Queen Elizabeth Stakes double. Waller is no stranger to Queen Elizabeth Stakes glory, having secured the title an impressive five times previously. His most recent reign included a remarkable three-peat with the legendary Winx (2017-2019). This year, Waller boasts additional contenders in the race: Buckaroo (gate two, ridden by Blake Shinn), Group 1 winner Lindermann (gate ten), Kovalica, and dual acceptor Atishu. A decision on Atishu’s participation awaits, as she is also a contender to defend her title in the Group 1 Queen Of The Turf Stakes (1600m). Via Sistina faces stiff competition, most notably from fellow mare Pride Of Jenni ($3.90) trained by Ciaron Maher. Pride Of Jenni boasts a strong recent showing, winning the All-Star Mile and finishing a close second in the Australian Cup. This marks her first Sydney run in a year. Another contender is the evergreen Cascadian ($7), the Godolphin team’s dual Australian Cup champion. The nine-year-old comes into the race in top form after consecutive victories in the Australian Cup and with a strong showing in the All-Star Mile. Other notable entries include Anthony & Sam Freedman‘s French import Place Du Carrousel ($11) and Lindsay Park‘s WFA star Mr Brightside ($13). The Queen Elizabeth Stakes promises to be a thrilling race, with Waller aiming to solidify his legacy and Via Sistina looking to emulate past champions. 2024 Queen Elizabeth Stakes Field No Last 10 Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight Probable Weight Penalty Hcp Rating 1 11222×1125 MR BRIGHTSIDE (NZ) Ben, Will & JD Hayes Craig Williams 11 59kg 118 2 213x7x9431 CASCADIAN (GB) James Cummings Ben Melham 6 59kg 116 3 43x275x535 BUCKAROO (GB) Chris Waller Blake Shinn 2 59kg 110 4 x0488x6310 LINDERMANN Chris Waller Tim Clark 10 59kg 109 5 1x9250x409 KOVALICA (NZ) Chris Waller Nash Rawiller 7 59kg 107 6 454010×962 ZEYREK (FR) Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes Joshua Parr 4 59kg 106 7 x62611x212 PRIDE OF JENNI Ciaron Maher Declan Bates 3 57kg 118 8 1x1132x2x1 VIA SISTINA (IRE) Chris Waller James McDonald 5 57kg 117 9 x52021x813 ATISHU (NZ) Chris Waller Tom Marquand 9 57kg 114 10 x1x5x110x2 PLACE DU CARROUSEL (IRE) Anthony & Sam Freedman Tommy Berry 8 57kg 110 11 312x6x6622 CEOLWULF (NZ) Joseph Pride Jason Collett 1 55.5kg 100 Table Credit: Racing Australia. This page and the written content within it were partially generated using AI or automated technology and edited and verified by our editorial team. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. The post Waller Eyes Sixth Queen Elizabeth Stakes with Via Sistina appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

Trainer Nigel Tiley. Photo: Trish Dunell Nigel Tiley is hoping to see a deserved maiden success for Vila Belmiro as he lines up a warm-favourite at Ellerslie on Wednesday. A son of Santos, Vila Belmiro made his debut as a juvenile in the Listed Challenge Stakes (1100m), but was not seen raceday for the following 15 months as his Pukekohe trainer allowed him to mature. “I thought he was going to be a natural two-year-old, but he just went through a big growing stage and went shin-sore after his first start,” Tiley said. “When we brought him back into work he wasn’t really putting on any condition, he was just growing, so we thought we’d give him a decent break and bring him back later on as a three-year-old.” Vila Belmiro’s trio of placed efforts since resuming have included a third to promising type Hat Trick, and another third last start when caught in the final bounds as the odds-on favourite. “I think he was probably a victim of the fence last start, I felt that maybe at that stage of the day, the rail wasn’t the place to be,” Tiley said. “He probably got left a bit of a sitting duck after making his run too early and got left out in front too far from home. “I’d like to think we can just hold him up a bit longer on Wednesday.” To be partnered by regular hoop Sam Spratt, Vila Belmiro is currently a -153.85 favourite with horse racing bookmakers. Tiley has downsized his team in recent years to spend his winters in Queensland, indicating himself and wife Lee will head on their annual stay next month. “At this stage we’re just keeping a very small team, we’ve only got two in work at the moment, so we’ll be heading off to Queensland early in May and we’ll make decisions when we get back,” he said. “At this stage, we’re just happy to potter around with a couple of horses.” Horse racing news View the full article

Day one of The Championships at Randwick took the spotlight last Saturday, while Caulfield hosted a strong support program. In this week’s edition of The Follow Files, we have found three runners that are worth following after solid performances. Add these horses to your blackbook with your chosen bookmaker and you will get notifications before they run. Randwick Track rating: Heavy 9 Rail position: True entire circuit Race 4: Group 3 Adrian Knox Stakes (2000m) | Time: 2:05.82 Horse to follow: Concello (3rd) Outside of Good Banter and Autumn Angel, the Chris Waller-trained Concello produced one of the best finishing bursts in the Group 3 Adrian Knox Stakes as she worked home nicely from the back of the field. After turning into the home straight on the back of the eventual winner, she couldn’t stick with her; however, Concello found another gear late and ran through the line strongly to nab third place. The daughter of Trapeze Artist passed the test at her first attempt at Group 3 level and at 2000m, and it looks as though a rise in trip could suit her. When to bet: Given that Waller hasn’t chosen to back up Concello in the Australian Oaks on Saturday, she might have a small break before heading towards the Queensland Oaks in June. Race 10: Group 3 PJ Bell Stakes (1200m) | Time: 1:12.24 Horse to follow: Infancy (2nd) Infancy produced one of the best finishing bursts at Randwick last Saturday, flying home from midfield and nearly nabbing Facile in the shadows of the winning post. After claiming the Listed Fireball Stakes over 1100m last start, the Kris Lees-trained filly earned a crack at Group company — and she didn’t disappoint. It was a strong performance, and a rise in trip next start will be ideal. When to bet: As a three-year-old filly, the next step will be the Group 3 James H B Carr Stakes over 1400m at Randwick on April 20, where Infancy will compete against her own age and sex once again. Caulfield Track rating: Soft 5 Rail position: True entire circuit Race 5: Benchmark 70 Handicap (1400m) | Time: 1:24.96 Horse to follow: Jabbawockeez (2nd) Jabbawockeez was one of the runners that caught the eye during the Caulfield program. The Ben, Will & JD Hayes-trained galloper took the shortcut along the inside rail and shared second place with Russian Meteor behind Jucconi. This son of Redwood has put in two solid runs this preparation over 1300m and 1400m, but both of his career wins have come at 1600m, which should be the distance he competes at third-up. When to bet: If the Hayes team can find a 1600m race in Benchmark 70 grade, Jabbawockeez should go very close to winning his next start. Top horse racing sites for blackbook features Latest horse racing tips View the full article

La Crique winning the Group 1 Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m) in February. Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North) Dual Group One winner La Crique has certainly been a test of patience for trainers Simon and Katrina Alexander, with the couple faced with their sternest test with the mare in the last couple of weeks. Fresh off recording her second elite-level victory in the Group 1 Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m) in February, the daughter of Vadamos was a heavily supported favourite heading into last month’s Group 1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) at Ellerslie but was forced to scratch following issues relating to a longstanding foot issue. “It was really disappointing having to scratch out of the Breeders’ Stakes. We fought hard to get her there, but it just wasn’t going to happen,” Katrina Alexander said. “It is the same foot issue. It started off as a blowout through the coronet and as the foot has grown down, we have had hoof wall separation. It is just a case of moisture and debris gets in and then causes a bacteria build-up. “We got the vet and farrier together yesterday and there is always an evolving plan with her. We have come to the conclusion that we really need to stop patching her foot up and keep her on track. It is now or never that we need to get it right, so we did a bit of work on her yesterday, changed her shoeing, and had some other ideas in the pot.” La Crique returned to work this morning following a 10-day freshen-up and Alexander was rapt with how she felt under saddle. “We hadn’t had a saddle on her back since scratching her until this morning,” she said. “I am very happy to say that when I rode her this morning she felt as good as what she has since the Group One that she won (Otaki WFA). “We just have to keep that (foot) clean and tidy as the hoof wall grows down and stop that separation from happening. “She felt very good to sit on this morning, so hopefully we can keep going now.” While it has been a frustrating process for the Alexanders, they have found La Crique’s racetrack success incredibly rewarding, and they are hoping to build on her record of seven wins and seven placings from just 18 starts, and nearly $1 million in prizemoney. The Queensland Winter Carnival was the primary objective for La Crique this preparation, and the husband-and-wife duo are hopeful they can still get their mare across the Tasman. “I have lost a lot of sleep in the process of having her, but when you get her right she is so rewarding,” Alexander said. “If we can just keep her sound for a period of time that would be great. Ideally we would still like to get to Brisbane but we will just have to wait and see. “Technically she has only had 10 days of not being ridden, so that was a nice freshen-up for her and we know she doesn’t take much to come to hand. If we can keep her sound and happy, hopefully we can keep going through the winter. “If we had managed to get to the Breeders’ Stakes we had a plan going through that we had mapped out quite nicely. I dare not make plans at the moment, so we will just see how we go.” Horse racing news View the full article

What Wyong Races Where Wyong Race Club & Function Centre – 71-73 Howarth St, Wyong NSW 2259 When Thursday, April 11, 2024 First Race 12:15pm AEST Visit Dabble NSW provincial racing on Thursday heads to the Central Coast, where Wyong Race Club gets set to host a stacked nine-race program. The rail moves out +3m for the entire circuit, and with improving conditions forecast in the lead-up, there is a chance the surface gets upgraded into the Soft range. The action is scheduled to get underway at 12:15pm AEST. Best Bet at Wyong: Waverley Waverley resumes after a 168-day spell and looks prepared for a first-up assault. He was tested against quality Listed company in the Geelong Classic (2200m) at the end of his spring campaign, finishing runner-up behind Served Cold. That form reads exceptionally well for this maiden, and although the 1350m may be short of his best trip, Waverley should have the class to put this lot away. Best Bet Race 4 – #11 Waverley (7) 3yo Gelding | T: John Sargent | J: Keagan Latham (58.5kg) Bet with Bet365 Next Best at Wyong: Draco’s Fire After breaking his maiden at Goulburn on March 24, the Annabel Neasham-trained Draco’s Fire appears perfectly placed to make it back-to-back victories. The son of Rubick was able to dictate terms thanks to a well-rated Zac Lloyd steer as the three-year-old cruised to victory. Draco’s Fire gets a similar setup here, so look for him to make every post a winner again. Next Best Race 9 – #3 Draco’s Fire (5) 3yo Gelding | T: Annabel Neasham | J: Zac Lloyd (57.5kg) Bet with Bet365 Best Value at Wyong: Bestower Bestower returns for her first run since toying with her rivals in a Taree maiden on January 1. Powering away to score by a length, that victory was far more dominant than the margin may suggest. Although she might need luck from stall 11 while tackling Class 1 company for the first time, watch for this progressive filly to reel in her opposition down the centre of the course. Best Value Race 5 – #8 Bestower (11) 3yo Filly | T: Kris Lees | J: Dylan Gibbons (56kg) Bet with Bet365 Thursday Wyong quaddie tips – 11/9/2024 Wyong quadrella selections Thursday, April 11, 2024 2-6-8-9 1-2-3-5-6-7 1-3-4-5-8-12 1-2-3-7-8 Horse racing tips
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Six-time Group One hero warms up for Champions Day as enigmatic galloper starts long road backView the full article

What Sandown Lakeside Races Where Sandown Racecourse – 591-659 Princes Hwy, Springvale VIC 3171 When Wednesday, April 10, 2024 First Race 1pm AEST Visit Dabble The Lakeside track at Sandown is the destination for metropolitan racing in Victoria on Wednesday. With showers forecast on Tuesday and again on Wednesday, the track is expected to remain in the Soft 6 range throughout the day. The rail comes out 11m the entire circuit, while the first of eight races is set to commence at 1pm AEST. Best Bet at Sandown: Into You Shay Keating’s Into You has been far from disgraced at Group 2 level in her last two starts, most notably last time out when finishing three lengths off Antrim Coast in the Alister Clark Stakes (2040m) at Moonee Valley. The No Nay Never progeny was hitting the line nicely, suggesting the Sandown 2100m will be right up her alley. In the small field of five, Alana Kelly will have her within striking distance at all times, and when asked for the ultimate effort, Into You can dispose of her rivals with relative ease. Best Bet Race 4 – #4 Into You (2) 3yo Filly | T: Shay Keating | J: Alana Kelly (56kg) +160 with Neds Next Best at Sandown: Elderberry Elderberry was an impressive Pakenham winner on March 3. The three-year-old from Anthony & Sam Freedman’s barn has hardly run a poor race in her career, and a five-week break between runs should be no issue. Mark Zahra will roll forward from barrier six, and if he can take a sit just off the speed, Elderberry should be more than good enough to account for this BM64 field. Next Best Race 6 – #6 Elderberry (6) 3yo Filly | T: Anthony & Sam Freedman | J: Mark Zahra (59kg) +250 with Playup Best Value at Sandown: Telescope Telescope looks ready to strike following consecutive runner-up performances at Colac and Bairnsdale. The Zoustar filly is a natural on-speed runner, and with the rail so far out, this could be a race that suits the leaders. With race fitness on her side third-up, Telescope looks a great play at a nice price with horse racing bookies. Best Value Race 2 – #7 Telescope (5) 3yo Filly | T: Amy & Ash Yargi | J: Jamie Kah (56kg) +700 with Picklebet Sandown Lakeside Wednesday quaddie tips – 10/4/2024 Sandown quadrella selections Wednesday, April 10, 2024 3-5-7 2-6 1-3-5-6-7 1-2-4-5-8 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

What Happy Valley Races Where Happy Valley Racecourse – Wong Nai Chung Rd, Happy Valley, Hong Kong When Wednesday, April 10, 2024 First Race 6:40pm HKT (8:40pm AEST) Visit Dabble Hong Kong racing returns to the bright lights of Happy Valley on Wednesday evening for a bumper nine-race program. The rail moves to the B position for the entire circuit, and with perfect weather forecast in the lead-up, punters can expect a pristine Good 4 surface. The opening race is set to commence at 6:40pm local time. Best Bet: Copartner Prance Copartner Prance was impressive when breaking his maiden at this course and distance on March 13. While he cops a 2.5kg weight penalty for his 1.3-length win, the Francis Lui-trained gelding appeared to have plenty in hand as he cruised through the wire under Zac Purton. Watch for Copartner Prance to head forward from stall six, and provided he can handle top weight, this progressive four-year-old simply looks too good for Class 4 company. Best Bet Race 4 – #1 Copartner Prance (6) 4yo Gelding | T: Francis Lui | J: Zac Purton (61kg) Bet with Bet365 Next Best: Devas Twelve Devas Twelve heads to Happy Valley for the first time after producing three strong outings at Sha Tin for a win and two minor placings. His most recent effort was a luckless performance over 1800m where he was crowded for room at a crucial stage in the home straight. Zac Purton will give the son of Headwater every chance from gate four, and if he can handle the tight-turning Happy Valley circuit, Devas Twelve must be considered the one to beat. Next Best Race 5 – #5 Devas Twelve (4) 4yo Gelding | T: Chris So | J: Zac Purton (58kg) Bet with Neds Best Value: King Oberon While the Jimmy Ting-trained King Oberon is on the verge of a class drop, punters should be willing to give him an each-way chance based on his effort two starts back at Sha Tin on March 3. Beaten 2.5 lengths by Oriental Smoke, he whacked away gallantly in a race that was dominated by on-speed runners. He gets his best chance to figure from barrier three, and with online bookmakers likely to give followers a big price, King Oberon is worth a speck. Best Value Race 2 – #9 King Oberon (3) 4yo Gelding | T: Jimmy Ting | J: Andrea Atzeni (54.5kg) Bet with Bet365 Hong Kong quaddie tips – Wednesday, April 10 Happy Valley quadrella selections Wednesday, April 10, 2024 2-3-4-6-9 1-2-3-4-10 1-2-3-4-5 4-7-8-9-11 Horse racing tips
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What Gosford Races Where The Entertainment Grounds – 4 Racecourse Rd, West Gosford NSW 2250 When Wednesday, April 10, 2024 First Race 12:50pm AEST Visit Dabble Gosford is the destination for NSW metro racing on Wednesday afternoon, with a competitive eight-race program set to get underway at 12:50pm local time. With rainfall continuing across the region, the current Heavy 8 rating appears likely to hold for race-day. The rail is in the true position for the entire circuit, so expect a fair track for all participants. Best Bet at Gosford: Bullets High Bullets High’s performance on the Kensington circuit at Randwick on March 27 gives the impression he is better than benchmark quality. He was last turning for home before igniting down the centre of the course, with the 1400m proving too sharp for the son of Ace High. He looks set for a Group 1 Queensland Derby (2400m) path, and there is no reason Bullets High can’t win a race like this along the way. Best Bet Race 4 – #3 Bullets High (3) 3yo Gelding | T: Joseph Pride | J: Jay Ford (58kg) +275 with Dabble Next Best at Gosford: Gan Teorainn Gan Teorainn is winless heading into start eight in Australia, and although she may be testing the patience of punters, this appears to be her race to lose. She did enough first-up in the Group 3 Aspiration Quality (1600m) at Randwick on March 9 and performed much better than the 3.2-length margin may suggest. She gets favours from barrier three, and as Tommy Berry hops in the saddle, Gan Teorainn can repay the faith for followers. Next Best Race 5 – #4 Gan Teorainn (3) 4yo Mare | T: Chris Waller | J: Tommy Berry (55kg) +165 with PlayUp Best Value at Gosford: Blackcomb Blackcomb gave a good account of herself in the Listed Albury Cup (2000m) on March 24 and should appreciate a dramatic step back in grade. This BM78 for the stayers appears far more manageable for the daughter of Vancouver fourth-up, and although Dylan Gibbons will need to navigate barrier eight with top weight, Blackcomb should prove too classy for this lot — and at great odds with online bookmakers. Best Value Race 3 – #1 Blackcomb (8) 5yo Mare | T: Kris Lees | J: Dylan Gibbons (58kg) +920 with Bet365 Wednesday Gosford quaddie tips – 10/4/2024 Gosford quadrella selections Wednesday, April 10, 2024 4 1-3-4-6-8-10-12 1-2-5-6-7-13 1-2-3-7-9 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips
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Consecutive victories have propelled Chattahoochee (NZ) (Reliable Man) toward his first crack at a black-type feature. The patiently handled son of Reliable Man has fashioned a tidy record with those recent successes prompting Debbie Sweeney to set her sights on Saturday week’s Gr.3 Manco Easter Handicap (1600m) at Ellerslie. “Out of his last seven starts, he’s won five of them and keeps on improving so he’s going to head to the Easter and his biggest test,” the Te Awamutu-based trainer said. “He’s obviously a progressive horse who hasn’t done anything wrong.” Sweeney will be hoping to turn back the Easter clock, as her family has a winning association with the prestigious mile. “We won it with Pasta Post and with Magic Winner, that was a fair while ago,” she said. Pasta Post (NZ) (Postponed) was successful in the 2008 edition for her father Graeme Sanders and late brother Mark while Debbie was training in partnership with her father when Magic Winner saluted in 2001. “It would be lovely to win it again, it’s just a shame it’s a Group Three race now. It’s gone from Group One to Two and now Three,” she said. “It’s still a nice race and the money is up ($150,000) and hopefully the horse goes well, Mr (Brian) Black has a share in the horse and he’s sponsoring the race and has done for the last few years.” Black races Chattahoochee with Lisa Anderson and the five-year-old has proven an outstanding investment after he was purchased for $8250 from breeder The Oaks Stud via the gavelhouse.com platform. With six wins from 12 appearances on all types of ground, his stake earnings have topped $157,000. Most recently, Chattahoochee was successful at Tauranga and then defeated Hat Trick (NZ) (Fastnet Rok), who had won his previous three starts, at Pukekohe when carrying 60kg. He was ridden on both occasions by the in-form stable apprentice Ngakau Hailey. “He’s kept stepping up and it was a very good effort last Saturday,” Sweeney said. “He didn’t draw great and was out three wide and he got the other horse in the last stride, it was a very good, tough effort to do that. “It was a good ride by Ngakau as well, he had to change the stick over to keep him straight. “The other horse had run out as well so he would probably have got it on protest regardless.” Sweeney has also been pleased by the progress of the promising Savile Row four-year-old MacFire (NZ), winner of three of his 10 starts, who will resume at Te Rapa on Sunday. “He has trialled really well at Tauranga and we’re happy with him,” she said. “He’ll run in the Rating 75 over 1200m, obviously his best distance is 1400m, but he has to kick off somewhere and we’d like some rain for him heading into the weekend. “We’re very happy with him and she should be in for a nice winter.” In the meantime, attention will focus on Wednesday’s meeting at Ellerslie where the stable will be represented by Arkadus (NZ) (Churchill_ in the Eagle Technology Maiden (2100m). “It would be nice to get a win with him before he heads for a spell. He’s well-bred being out of Fanatic (Gr.1 New Zealand Oaks, 2400m) and he’s gone a couple of nice races without any luck,” Sweeney said. “He’s got a senior jockey back on and Lynsey (Satherley) knows him so hopefully he’ll be a good chance.” View the full article