Wandering Eyes

Despite opposition from powerful Southern California tracks, which desire a consolidation of racing in the state, the CHRB approves fall race dates in Northern California for a 26-day season at Pleasanton during its board meeting March 21.View the full article

Friday, March 22 promises an exciting day of horse racing with eight meetings scheduled across Australia. Our dedicated team of racing analysts at horsebetting.com.au has curated the top bets and provided quaddie numbers specifically for the upcoming Albury and Cranbourne races. Friday Racing Tips – March 22, 2024 Albury Racing Tips Cranbourne Racing Tips For avid Australian racing fans, numerous promotions await your exploration. Be sure to peruse the offerings from top online bookmakers, as daily promotions can enhance your horse racing experience. If you’re in search of a new bookmaker to elevate your horse racing ventures on March 22, 2024, consult our comprehensive guide to the finest online racing betting sites. We’re committed to keeping you informed and enhancing your horse racing betting journey. Horse racing tips View the full article

Top End trainer Tayarn Halter celebrating with partner Lindsay Schmidt and Darwin apprentice Jade Hampson following a win at Fannie Bay. Picture: Caroline Camilleri (Darwin Photography Professionals) Like fellow Darwin trainers, Tayarn Halter hopes to capitalise during the Alice Springs Turf Club’s Cup Carnival. Halter sent six horses to the Red Centre for the revamped Carnival which kicked off last Sunday at Pioneer Park. City Regal, Kippax, Fischer, Bullinachinashop, Tyquendo and Prohibited are currently under the care of Halter’s partner Lindsay Schmidt, apprentice Jade Hampson and stable-hand Stephanie Wright. “I head down over the Easter weekend,” Halter said. “Last race meeting at Fannie Bay on Friday until April 12 and I’ve got one runner.” It’s Day 2 of the ASTC Cup Carnival on Saturday with the $50,000 NT Guineas (1600m) the showpiece. Additionally, the sprinters and stayers will feature in The Soldier Lightning (1000m) and an open 1900m handicap in the build up to the $100,000 Pioneer Sprint (1200m) and $110,000 Alice Springs Cup (2000m) on the weekend of April 6-7. City Regal lines up in the Lightning for Halter, while Kippax and Fischer will start in the 1900m event. “Our initial intention was to head to the Pioneer Sprint with City Regal,” Halter said. “He was a bit average first up at Pioneer Park, but we’re hoping for improvement. “It’s a very good field on Saturday, I imagine they’ll be too sharp for him early. “He’ll probably settle back and we’re just hoping that he can get home hard. “He’s earned a cheque every time he has been around in Darwin. “He’s more of a 1200-1300m horse, so with another run under his belt we’ll hopefully have him on the mark come Sprint day. “Kippax is my stayer and I would like to get him into the Cup. “If he doesn’t make the Cup field, he’ll run in that other 2000m race on Cup Day. “He’s dour – he’s tried and tested from 2000-2200m.” Last Saturday, Bullinachinashop charged home along the fence until she was cramped for room before finishing third, and Tyquendo was sixth on his Alice Springs debut. “Hopefully we can improve further into the pointy end come Cup weekend,” Halter added. Meanwhile, Halter was full of praise for Darwin pair Hampson and Emma Lines, as well as Alice Springs trio Dakota Gillett, Ianish Luximon and Lek Maloney, who will represent the NT in the 2024 National Apprentice Race Series. It started on Wednesday at Murray Bridge, where Gillett finished fourth on Travis Doudle’s Prince Tikea and 10th on Andrew Gluyas’ Seven Secrets. Maloney rides at Hobart on Sunday, Luximon heads to Ascot on April 3, Lines features at Darwin on April 12, and Hampson travels to Doomben on April 17. NSW apprentice Dylan Stanley, currently based in Alice, along with Gillett, Maloney, Luximon and Hampson should secure rides in both legs in Darwin. Lines is the only NT apprentice who can earn points. Maloney, Gillett, Hampson, Luximon and Lines celebrated a win each on Day 1 of the Alice Springs Cup Carnival. “Very proud of all the apprentices up here, they’re just flying,” Halter said. “They’ve worked really hard to get where they are, they’re fantastic.” Horse racing news View the full article

Trainer Dan Morgan and Paul Denton, with Don’t Be Dramatic following a win at Pioneer Park earlier this year, are looking to seal the $50,000 NT Guineas (1600m) with the three-year-old gelding on Saturday. He only started training less than 12 months ago, but Alice Springs-based Dan Morgan is in line to win his first big race on Saturday with Don’t Be Dramatic in the $50,000 NT Guineas (1600m). Morgan, also a licenced jockey, had his first runner last April and ended the season with five wins. With a team of nine horses, the 30-year-old has had 10 wins this season, and Don’t Be Dramatic is expected to start the Red Centre’s three-year-old feature as favourite with horse racing bookmakers. After a disruptive start to his career, the son of Super One has excelled. Heading to the barriers for his debut on January 6, the gelding bolted when spooked by thunder and was scratched. The following week he saluted over 1000m (BM54) before facing three-year-old opposition which resulted in a win and two runner-up performances. It was after rolling his own group by three lengths over 1400m a fortnight ago that Don’t Be Dramatic’s Guineas prospects soared. He’ll start from barrier three on Saturday with experienced NT jockey Paul Denton in the saddle, while Morgan’s filly Fairytale Bliss (Dylan Staney) jumps from gate 11 in the 12-horse field. “My first full season as a trainer and to be going into the Guineas with two live chances, I’m very excited,” Morgan said. “Don’t Be Dramatic is pretty easy to train – keep him fresh, keep him happy. “He’s well and truly done his job, so whether he wins or runs last on Saturday he’ll likely be going for a well-deserved holiday. “He’s only a baby and it’s his first racing prep, he’s done a terrific job. “He will most likely go and mature in the paddock, and come back a nice strong horse for next season. “With the changes to the NT program, I’ve still got enough time to give him a break and think about it. “At this stage, probably won’t be heading to Darwin with him.” It was following his narrow loss behind Kevin Lamprecht’s Beyond Ready over 1200m that Morgan and Denton discussed changing Don’t Be Dramatic’s gear before his last start win. “We had a bit of a play, but for him to go out and win as nicely as he did we were both pretty excited and a little bit surprised,” Morgan said. “Paul is obviously very experienced, he knows how to ride him.” Neither of the Guineas runners has won or run a place over 1600m, with Becquerel, He’s Maverick and The Panther (Neil Dyer) the only horses in the field to race over a mile and beyond. “It’s unknown territory for all of us,” Morgan said. “I tend to keep my head down and bum up, and worry about my own horses rather than keep my eye on others.” Morgan, who isn’t riding during the Alice Springs Cup Carnival, is enjoying life as a trainer. “We’re having a ripping season, the team is ticking along nicely,” he said. “They’re all doing me very proud, they’re making me look good. “I definitely have no complaints.” Horse racing news View the full article

Veteran handler launches two-pronged assault on Class One Rapper Dragon Handicap (1,200m) with smart sprint pair Invincible Sage and Flying AceView the full article

Every week, the TDN posts a roundup of the relevant Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA)-related rulings from around the country. Among this week's rulings, an independent arbitration panel suspended trainer Jason DaCosta for 15 days (starting on Mar. 22) and fined him $1,000 after his trainee, Poker Partner, tested positive for Gabapentin when winning at Presque Isle Downs on July 18 last year. Gabapentin is a class B controlled medication under HISA that is an FDA human-approved anticonvulsant used to treat conditions like epilepsy, postherpetic neuralgia and in the treatment of partial onset seizures. Trainer Carla Morgan has also been suspended for seven days and fined $1,000 after her trainee, River City Rocker, tested positive for the presence of the sedative, Xylazine, for a vet's list workout on Jan. 2 this year. NEW HISA/HIWU STEWARDS RULINGS The following rulings were reported on HISA's “rulings” portal and through the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit's (HIWU) “pending” and “resolved” cases portals. Resolved ADMC Violations Resolution Date: 03/14/2024 Licensee: Leon Minott, trainer Penalty: A fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Admission. Alleged violation: Vet's list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Slender Slipper on 2/3/24. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Resolution Date: 03/15/2024 Licensee: Carla Morgan, trainer Penalty: 7-day period of Ineligibility, beginning on March 16, 2024; a fine of $1,000; imposition of 2 Penalty Points. Admission. Alleged violation: Vet's list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Xylazine-Controlled Medication (Class B)-in a sample taken from River City Rocker on 1/2/24. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Resolution Date: 03/15/2024 Licensee: Jose D'Angelo, trainer Penalty: A written reprimand Alleged violation: Vets' list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Omeprazole and Cimetidine-both Controlled Medications (Class C)-in a sample taken from Sun Azteca on 2/14/24. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Resolution Date: 03/18/2024 Licensee: Isidro Tamayo, trainer Penalty: A fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Final decision by HIWU. Alleged violation: Vet's list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Silent Beauty on 1/28/24. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Resolution Date: 03/18/2024 Licensee: Jose Jimenez, trainer Penalty: A fine of $3,000; imposition of 3 Penalty Points. Admission. Alleged violation: Pre-workout joint injection violation Explainer: A possible violation of Rule 3314-Use or Attempted Use of a Controlled Medication Substance or a Controlled Medication Method-on the horse, Just Katherine. This was also a possible violation of Rule 4222-Intra-Articular Injections Within Seven (7) Days of Timed and Reported Workout. Resolution Date: 03/19/2024 Licensee: John Shirreffs, trainer Penalty: A written reprimand. Alleged violation: Vet's list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Omeprazole (ulcer paste)-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Sully on 2/12/24. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Resolution Date: 03/20/2024 Licensee: Alejandro Gomez, trainer Penalty: A fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Alleged violation: Vet's list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Flunixin-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Tamanrassett on 1/25/24. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Resolution Date: 03/21/2024 Licensee: Jason DaCosta, trainer Penalty: A period of Ineligibility of fifteen (15) days, starting March 22, 2024; disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $1,000; imposition of 2 Penalty Points. Final decision by independent arbitration panel. Explainer: For the presence of Gabapentin-Controlled Medications (Class B)-in a sample taken from Poker Partner, who won at Presque Isle Downs on 7/18/23. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Pending ADMC Violations Date: 02/10/2024 Licensee: Jonathan Maldonado, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Capsaicin-Controlled Medication (Class B)-in a sample taken from Kapadokya, who won at Laurel Park on 02/10/24. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 03/02/2024 Licensee: Sally Rivera, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Vet's list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Stormy Joe on 3/2/24. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 02/20/2024 Licensee: Elliott Sullivan, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Pre-workout joint injection violation Explainer: A possible violation of Rule 3314-Use or Attempted Use of a Controlled Medication Substance or a Controlled Medication Method-on the horse, My d'Valentine. This was also a possible violation of Rule 4222-Intra-Articular Injections Within Seven (7) Days of Timed and Reported Workout. Date: 02/29/2024 Licensee: Riley Tucker Mott, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Pre-workout joint injection violation Explainer: A possible violation of Rule 3314-Use or Attempted Use of a Controlled Medication Substance or a Controlled Medication Method-on the horse, Brian. This was also a possible violation of Rule 4222-Intra-Articular Injections Within Seven (7) Days of Timed and Reported Workout. Date: 03/01/2024 Licensee: Philip Serpe, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Pre-workout joint injection violation Explainer: A possible violation of Rule 3314-Use or Attempted Use of a Controlled Medication Substance or a Controlled Medication Method-on the horse, Itsallcomingtogetha. This was also a possible violation of Rule 4222-Intra-Articular Injections Within Seven (7) Days of Timed and Reported Workout. Date: 02/20/2024 Licensee: Randy Preston, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Flunixin-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Sharp Life, who finished fourth at Mahoning Valley on 02/20/24. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 02/28/2024 Licensee: Patricia Farro, trainer Penalty: Provisionally suspended Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Cobalt Salts (eg CoCl2)-a banned substance-in a sample taken from Knockout Win, who won at Parx Racing on 2/28/23. This is a possible violation of Rule 3212-Presence of a Banned Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List Workout). Date: 02/19/2024 Licensee: Michelle Nevin, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Vet's list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Betamethasone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Everlys Girl on 02/19/24. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 02/21/2024 Licensee: Michael Simone, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Vet's list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from The Bearrish One on 02/21/24. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 02/25/2024 Licensee: Adan Farias, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Vet's list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Dexamethasone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Misty Rain on 02/25/24. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 01/19/2024 Licensee: Blaine Wright, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Vet's list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Betamethasone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Wodeton, who won at Golden Gate on 01/19/24. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 02/18/2024 Licensee: Arnold Torres, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Vet's list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Methocarbamol-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Its Thievery on 02/18/24. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Violations of Crop Rule One important note: HISA's whip use limit is restricted to six strikes during a race. Oaklawn Park Ramsey Howard Zimmerman – violation date March 15; $250 fine and one-day suspension OTHER KEY RULINGS The TDN also publishes a roundup of key official rulings from the primary tracks within the four major racing jurisdictions of California, New York, Florida and Kentucky. Here's a primer on how each of these jurisdictions adjudicates different offenses, what they make public (or not) and where. California Track: Santa Anita Date: 03/16/2024 Licensee: Robert Henie, owner Penalty: Restoration of good standing Violation: N/A Explainer: Owner Robert Henie, having satisfied a financial complaint filed by Linda Madsen (aka Milky Way Farm) for $6,450.00, is restored to good standing and California Horse Racing Board LATS Ruling #42 dated March 8, 2024, is set aside. Track: Santa Anita Date: 03/16/2024 Licensee: Gary Hartunian, owner/Peter Miller, trainer Penalty: Payment of fees, surrender of ownership percentage Violation: Financial responsibility Explainer: Following a formal hearing held at Santa Anita Park on March 7, 2024, pursuant to California Horse Racing Board rule #1876 (Financial Responsibility – farm, training and hauling fees), it is ordered that Owner Gary Hartunian (dba Rockingham Ranch) pay Owner/Trainer Peter Miller the amount of $128.50 by April 1, 2024, whereby Peter Miller must surrender his 25% ownership of “Chasing Conquest” or pay $7,371.50 for farm, training and hauling fees to M Gary Hartunian by April 7, 2024, to retain 25% ownership. Failure to do so will result in the suspension of all licenses held by Gary Hartunian and/or Peter Miller. Track: Santa Anita Date: 03/17/2024 Licensee: Steve Knapp, owner-trainer Penalty: 15-day suspension, $1,000 fine Violation: Training soundness examination violation Explainer: Owner/Trainer Steve Knapp, who trained Truest of True on January 18, 2024, at Santa Anita Park, is suspended for 15 days (April 1, 2024, thru April 15, 2024) and fined $1,000 for violation of California Horse Racing Board rules #1846.3 (Veterinary and Training Records for Horses Requiring Training Soundness Examination) and #1846.2 (Training Soundness Examination – no ninety-day examination). Track: Santa Anita Date: 03/17/2024 Licensee: Steve Knapp, owner-trainer Penalty: $500 fine Violation: Training soundness examination violation Explainer: Trainer Steve Knapp, who trained Nickle Nickle Nine on September 21, 2023, at Santa Anita Park, is fined $500 for violation of California Horse Racing Board rules #1846.3 (Veterinary and Training Records for Horses Requiring Training Soundness Examination) and #1846.2 (Training Soundness Examination – no ninety-day examination). Track: Santa Anita Date: 03/17/2024 Licensee: Tiago Pereira, jockey Penalty: Three-day suspension Violation: Careless riding Explainer: Jockey Tiago Pereira, who rode Sketchy in the seventh race at Santa Anita Park on March 16, 2024, is suspended for 3 racing days (March 24, 29 and 30, 2024) for failure to maintain a straight course in the stretch and causing interference; a violation of California Horse Racing Board rule #1699 (Riding Rules – careless riding). The post Weekly Stewards and Commissions Rulings, Mar. 15-21 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The son of Tapit has made both of his starts as a 4-year-old at Oaklawn with good results. He started with a win in an allowance for horses 4 and up who have never won three races. He followed that by running second in the Razorback Handicap (G3). View the full article

The New York Racing Association has moved the March 23 eight-race card at Aqueduct Racetrack to March 24 due to a strong coastal storm forecast to impact the New York metropolitan area beginning late March 22 and throughout Saturday.View the full article

Jason DaCosta, a former leading trainer in Jamaica, has been suspended 15 days after his runner Poker Partner tested positive for gabapentin last July in a post-race test at Presque Isle Downs.View the full article

By Jonny Turner The road to the Rowe Cup starts at Addington tonight for defending champion Love N The Port and his best mate Majestic Man. The pair are the best of friends off the track but fierce rivals on it and they set to begin a one-way path to Alexandra Park. Majestic Man (20m) and Love N The Port (10m) make up a powerful trio trainer Phil Williamson brings to race 6 on Friday night, alongside Jimmy Carter (10m). When lining up from a 10m handicap, Love N The Port starts for the first time since January when he went down narrowly to Jimmy Carter in Group 3 company. He’s a $1.90 favourite in the six horse field. The trotter hasn’t trialled ahead of his return but Williamson thinks the horse is ready to run a nice race. “I am happy with him and I would be surprised if he didn’t run a pretty nice race.” “He is on his way back up to Auckland, it won’t be easy this year with all the Aussie horses, but we will head up there and give it a go.” Though Jimmy Carter beat Love N The Port home in their last meeting at Ascot Park, Williamson notes there is a big difference in their return match-up. “Jimmy was off the front at Invercargill which was a big help.” “It will be a lot hard for him, starting off level marks with Love N The Port.” “He is well and hopefully he can go a good race, but he has to bring his manners which is always the big thing with him.” Majestic Man is also on a path towards the Rowe Cup, starting at Addington on Friday night. The Group 1 event is set to be the stage for the final chapter in the trotter’s incredible career. “It is his last campaign, we have made the decision that win, lose or draw, the Rowe Cup will be his last start.” “I have been really happy with him and I wouldn’t be surprised if he goes a very good race this week.” “He hasn’t had much luck lately, he has been chasing from handicaps and running some of the best sectionals in the race.” “I am expecting him to be getting home pretty good and he might be able to get past the lot of them.” The Williamson barn also lines up both Aroha Kenny and Our Pinocchio in race 8 on Friday night. Aroha Kenny comes into the event on the back of a run of six placings as she chases down a deserved win. “She has been racing great and I will just be happy if she goes another nice race, which I am expecting her to do,” Williamson said. Our Pinocchio comes into race 8 following a creditable last start third. View the full article

Tina Marie Bond, recently elected president of the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association (NYTHA), added the office of president of the Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association (THA) to her duties after the THA's annual meeting and election Mar. 19-20 in Florida. “It's an honor to be elected president of such an esteemed collective,” said Bond, who is the first woman ever to helm the organization. “THA is at the forefront of collaborative decision-making and policy implementation on issues such as racehorse aftercare, equine safety and welfare, and protecting the integrity of our sport. I look forward to leading the organization as it addresses the challenges that horsemen and women face on local, regional, and national levels.” In other THA officer elections, Chris Block and David Richardson were named vice presidents; Michael Musto was named treasurer; and Bessie Gruwell will serve as secretary. The post Tina Bond is New THA President appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Former Steinhoff International Chief Executive Markus Jooste has died at the age of 63, the Financial Times reported on Thursday. Jooste, who was at one point heavily involved on the worldwide racing scene through his Mayfair Speculators, died of an alleged self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was fined R475 million (£19,937,078/€23,234,382/$25,229,382) for accounting fraud–due on or before Apr. 19–by South Africa's Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) on Wednesday, Reuters reported. The regulator found that Jooste had published “false or misleading financial statements” following an investigation into the matter. Jooste was also ordered to pay R10 million to reimburse the FSCA for their expenses incurred during their investigation into Steinhoff. Originally, Jooste resigned from his Steinoff role in December of 2017, following an investigation by the retail holding company into accounting irregularities. The company lost the majority of its value following his departure. However, in 2023 Steinhoff did start a debt restructuring plan to avoid bankruptcy, among other initiatives. The post Former Steinhoff International Chief Executive Markus Jooste Dies At 63 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

With a strong coastal storm predicted to impact the New York metropolitan area Friday evening and into the majority of Saturday, Aqueduct has moved the Saturday card to Sunday, officials at the New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) announced Thursday. Highlighted by the $100,000 Biogio's Rose S., Saturday's eight-race card will move in its entirety to Sunday, while the original Sunday races will be carded as extras beginning Thursday, Mar 28. First post Sunday will be 1:20 p.m. EDT. Aqueduct Racetrack will remain open for simulcasting on Saturday. The post Aqueduct Moves Saturday Card to Sunday 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 radiographic findings and their impact on sales and racetrack success. Ocala horseman David Scanlon is not just a leading 2-year-old consignor, but he has also built an impressive list of training graduates for leading owners like Godolphin, Coolmore, Don Alberto, and Calumet Farm. In both capacities, Scanlon's operation is well represented on this year's GI Kentucky Derby trail. He was in charge of the early training of leading Derby contender Sierra Leone (Gun Runner) and his Scanlon Training & Sales pinhooked GIII Gotham S. runner-up Just a Touch (Justify). Whether he is training a horse for a client to race or one of his own destined for resale, Scanlon said they all start with the same training regimen. “When we go through the breaking and basic training, pretty much everyone is on the same schedule,” Scanlon said. “Everybody goes through getting acquainted with the rider, getting ridden, from small round pens to paddocks, to big fields, to the racetrack. So that's usually our technique that we use and that's pretty much standard for all of our horses.” Eventually the sales calendar forces the two groups to diverge in their training. “With a lot of these racehorses, especially for my higher-end clients, these horses who are going to be late summer or Saratoga classic horses, we will plan their work schedules to start much later. Whereas, with the 2-year-olds, I will look at a sales date and then I start to work backwards from the breeze show dates. I want to start a couple of months away and say I am going to start my light schedules here and at this point, we need to be doing this with him and going this fast.” Sierra Leone | Hodges Photography / Lou Hodges, Jr. But plotting out a course for his pinhook prospects necessarily begins in the fall when Scanlon and his team are shopping at the yearling sales. Without the seemingly limitless budget of some of those high-end clients, he has learned what corners he can cut while still finding success the following spring in the sales ring. “It's really hard to get everything for us,” Scanlon said. “The old saying, checking all the boxes, if they have a real high-end fancy pedigree, and they also have a great body and conformation, that's usually going to be hard for a pinhooker to buy. You are usually going to get beat by an end-user.” Buying on a budget over the years has led Scanlon to accept certain conformational flaws, but always in the context of the entire horse. “The one thing we always look for, say a horse's conformation isn't perfect, they may toe in, they may toe out or they are a little offset in the knees, you still want them to have a big, athletic walk and see how they walk through it,” Scanlon said. “Maybe we are going to buy a horse that is a little bit off-set in the knees, but he ends up walking through it really well. If I am looking at a horse and he is toed in, but he walks really well through it, I may forgive that horse. But if he comes at me and he has a lot of action in his walk–like a wing, as they say–that's not good. That horse may not be a good mover or a galloper, too. If they don't walk through it well, then they don't move as well.” That winnowing process that pinhookers are forced to use at the yearling sales in the fall makes for outstanding offerings at the 2-year-old sales, according to Scanlon. “Some of the best horse people I know have basically gone through and already short-listed horses,” he said of the pinhookers. “We look at thousands of yearlings all year and go ahead with what we've discovered as athletes. Year in and year out, you always see at the top of the standings, horses that the top 10 pinhookers have picked out. I don't think it's a coincidence that they are, every year, some of the best 2-year-olds in the country. It's our job and what we've done for a long time. We have done this so many times, we know what really works and what doesn't. Sometimes when you just have an open check book, maybe it means a little bit more to us, it's how we make our living. It's very important to know what works and what doesn't.” Scanlon-trained colt by Constitution sells for $800,000 at last week's OBS March sale | Photos by Z While innuendo and speculation continue to swirl around the 2-year-old sales, Scanlon said he thinks the sales companies have made impressive progress in regulating both the horses and their sellers. “I think the sales companies are really doing a good job, especially in the last two years,” he said. “I don't think people are actually highlighting enough how far the sales companies have come with their medication rules. It was really a little more open a few years ago, but in the last two years, they have really tried to adopt rules that come along a little bit more in line with what HISA is trying to tell the racing public. Can you always do a little bit more? I am sure you can. And I think that is what they are working on. I do believe there is a lot of disclosure in the sale. “With some of the stuff they've been talking about, like Clenbuterol, I just feel like that is something that doesn't have a place anymore. We don't even keep that on the farm anymore, for any use. It's one of those things that, with the way the world is now, it's just something we don't need to have around here knowing it's frowned upon and the penalties.” Asked if there were any changes he would like to see, Scanlon said, “I think the sales companies not being so lenient on some of the guys who do have violations. Enough slaps on the wrist, if you have this many, that's it. You're not going to be able to sell. I do feel like some of the rules with people who have multiple violations will need to be more stringent in the future, just to give people a little more confidence going forward.” And what advice would he give to potential buyers at the juvenile sales? “I think the buyers need to educate themselves,” he said. “I think buyers need to realize, when they come to these sales, they need to do a little bit of homework, too, on the people they are doing business with. Spend some time, go through the results. To me, when you go ahead and open the TDN, or if you see guys who are selling multiple winners, guys who have been around for a long time and have sold a lot of winners, they have been established. Ask around and know who you are dealing with. Those are the kind of people I think you want to do business with. I'm not saying everybody doesn't deserve a shot to start a business, but some of these guys can be fly by night. You want to take your time with that.” Despite the issues that still need to be confronted, Scanlon stressed it was important to appreciate the gains that have already been made. “I think sometimes in this sport, we are facing a lot of challenges right now, but I don't think we always stop to look at how far we've actually come in the last few years,” he said. “I do think the 2-year-old sales companies are really trying to work together to improve the sport as far as medication and how it all comes together.” To view the entire 2023 X-Ray Files series, click here. The post The X-Ray Files, Season 2: David Scanlon appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

North Light, winner of the 2004 Epsom Derby (G1), and a stallion on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, was euthanized March 20 due to complications of laminitis. The 23-year-old stallion will be laid to rest at Adena South in Ocala, Fla.View the full article

After a disappointing Oaklawn Park debut in 2023, Rocket Can returned to the winner's circle for the first time in more than a year in the 10th race March 16 for jockey Flavien Prat, Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott, and owner Frank Fletcher.View the full article

Horse racing bookmakers have unveiled an array of enticing racing promotions for Friday, March 22. Among the highlights are multiple generous bonus back offers that add an extra layer of excitement to your horse racing experience. Explore these free promotions from top online bookmakers to make the most of your betting opportunities. The top Australian racing promotions for March 22, 2024, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions Albury & Cranbourne Races 1 & 2 Run 2nd or 3rd Bonus Back up to $50 Back a runner in races 1 & 2 at Albury & Cranbourne this Friday and if it runs 2nd or 3rd get up to $50 in Bonus Cash. Fixed Win bets only. Neds Terms and Conditions apply. Login to Neds to Claim Promo Cranbourne Bonus Back 2nd or 3rd Get your stake back in bonus bets. Limits apply. Playup T&Cs apply. Login to PlayUp to Claim Promo Odds Drift Protector If the price at the jump is bigger than the price that you took, we will pay you out at the bigger odds Eligible customers. T&C’s apply. Login to Bet365 to Claim Promo Cranbourne – 25% Boosted Winnings Paid in Bonus Cash. First Fixed Win Cash Bet. Max Bonus $250. T&Cs Apply. Picklebet T&Cs apply. Login to PickleBet to Claim Promo BoomBet Daily Race Returns Use your daily Race Returns to back a runner in ANY RACE you want* and if your horse doesn’t win but finishes in the specified positions, you get your stake back as a bonus bet. 18+ Gamble responsibly. Can be used across any race and code unless specified in customer’s BoomBox. Fix odds, win bets only. Max bonus $50. Login to BoomBet to Claim Promo Friday Bonus Back 2nd ALL RACES at Cranbourne Auto-applied in Bet Slip. Promotional limits apply. Min 6 runners. Fixed Odds only. T&Cs apply. Login to UniBet to Claim Promo How does horsebetting.com.au source its racing bonus offers? HorseBetting.com.au has meticulously assessed the premier horse racing bookmakers in Australia, unveiling exclusive thoroughbred bonus promotions and specials tailored for Friday, March 22, 2024. These horse racing promotions are a consistent feature, underscoring the unwavering commitment of Australia’s top horse racing bookmakers. In the world of horse racing betting, if one bookmaker isn’t currently running a promotion, rest assured that another is making the most out of promotional offers. Your ultimate resource for the most lucrative horse racing bookmaker bonuses every day is HorseBetting.com.au. Gain the most value out of your punting endeavours by leveraging bookie bonuses, accompanied by the most competitive horse racing odds available for each race. It’s crucial to note that these thoroughbred racing promotion offers are exclusively designed for existing customers. To access these special promotions and claim the bookmaker’s offers, simply log in to each online bookmaker’s platform. For those on the lookout for races and horses to optimise their horse betting bookmaker bonus bets, HorseBetting provides a valuable resource with its daily free racing tips. Horse racing promotions View the full article

If Helios Express (Aus) (Toronado {Ire}) is to add Sunday's HK$26-million (£2.63 million/US$3.33 million) BMW Hong Kong Derby to his victories in the Hong Kong Classic Mile and Hong Kong Classic Cup, he will have to do so from gate 13 in a field of 14 4-year-olds in the 2000-metre domestic centrepiece Sunday at Sha Tin Racecourse. The 102-rater is one of three in the race for four-time Derby-winning conditioner John Size, who will also send out Classic Cup third Ensued (Lemon Drop Kid) with Ryan Moore from barrier 12 and the longshot Simple Hedge (Aus) (Sebring {Aus}) from the six with Antoine Hamelin at the controls. “I'll have to have a look at the race, see what the jocks think and try and work it out,” the Aussie ex-pat commented. “They haven't done me any favours yet. Size also provided an update on Helios Express, who has overcome a bacterial infection in a hoof. “The horse (Helios Express) is fine, he galloped [Thursday] morning and he looks good.” With a win, Helios Express would join Rapper Dragon (Aus) (Street Boss) and Golden Sixty (Aus) (Medaglia d'Oro) as horses to sweep the 4-year-old Classics. Galaxy Express (Aus) (Wandjina {Aus}) will attempt to emulate Size's most recent Derby winner Ping Hai Star (NZ) (Nom de Jeu {NZ}) in stepping up from 1400 metres to the 2000 metres of the Derby. Prepared by the outstanding leading young trainer Pierre Ng, Galaxy Express will carry Blake Shinn, who will need to chart a course from the widest alley. Those drawn in the double digits would take some heart in the barrier draw statistics. Not only did Voyage Bubble (Aus) (Deep Field {Aus}) prevail 12 months ago from the 14 hole, but since the turn of the century, the Derby winner has left from gates 10 and higher on no fewer than 10 occasions. Fay Fay (NZ) and Ambitious Dragon (NZ) also overcame the widest barrier. The top choices in the market have also generally performed well in the Derby, as only Voyage Bubble (45-1) and Vital King (NZ) (10-1, 2007) have returned double-digit mutuels. The Derby goes as race seven on a 10-race program with a scheduled post time of 4.15 local time (4:15am ET, 9:15 British time). Click here for the HKJC race form. The Hong Kong Derby cheat sheet will appear in Saturday's TDN Europe. 2024 Hong Kong Derby barrier draw: 1⃣ Star Mac 2⃣ Elliptical 3⃣ Chill Chibi 4⃣ Ka Ying Generation 5⃣ Beauty Crescent 6⃣ Simple Hedge 7⃣ Speed Dragon 8⃣ Unbelievable 9⃣ Chancheng Glory Massive Sovereign 1⃣1⃣ Helene Feeling 1⃣2⃣ Ensued 1⃣3⃣ Helios Express 1⃣4⃣… pic.twitter.com/gwQLcFWZrJ — HKJC Racing (@HKJC_Racing) March 21, 2024 The post Favourites Have It All To Do Following HK Derby Draw appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be present at Gulfstream Park for Florida Derby Day on Saturday, Mar. 30. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance has partnered with 1/ST RACING to have a variety of on-site activations during the day. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be honored with a named race on the Florida Derby Day undercard. Following the running of the race, a presentation will be made to the winning connections, including a Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance branded blanket and gift bag branded merchandise. 1/ST RACING will promote accredited aftercare throughout the day. A representative from Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will be on-site to host the winners of the “Off to the Races” VIP Experience online benefit auction. 1/ST RACING has donated the Florida Derby Day VIP Experience where the winners will enjoy premium dining, access to the paddock, and more. Additionally, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is also the co-beneficiary for the Florida Derby Charity Golf Tournament alongside the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund. The charity golf tournament, hosted by 1/ST RACING, will be held on Monday, Mar. 25, at the Plantation Preserve Golf Course & Club. “1/ST RACING and Gulfstream Park are thrilled to have Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance return for Florida Derby Day,” said Steve Screnci, President of Racing and Business Development, 1/ST RACING. “We take great pride in supporting accredited aftercare and aim to further raise awareness and aid in the care of retired Thoroughbred racehorses.” “Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is honored to count supporters like 1/ST RACING and Gulfstream among our allies in advancing our mission,” said Emily Dresen, Director of Funding & Events at Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. “We eagerly anticipate a day filled with exciting races and the opportunity to enlighten racing fans about the importance of accredited aftercare.” The post Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance to be Present for Florida Derby Day appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

North Light, winner of the 2004 Vodafone Epsom Derby (Gr. 1), and a stallion on both sides of the Atlantic, was euthanized on March 20 due to complications of laminitis. The 23-year-old stallion will be laid to rest at Adena South in Ocala, Fla.View the full article

The March 23 Fukuryu Stakes at Nakayama Racecourse has become a "Win and You're In" race for the Kentucky Derby (G1) with the victor earning the right of first refusal to compete in Louisville, Ky.View the full article

Dual Classic winner and champion 3-year-old colt I'll Have Another (Flower Alley) has been donated to Old Friends by owner Paul Reddam. The 14-year-old former stallion arrived to the Thoroughbred retirement farm Wednesday. “Welcoming I'll Have Another is an auspicious and historic moment for Old Friends,” said John Nicholson, president and CEO of Old Friends. “We are deeply grateful to Paul Reddam and Doug O'Neill for choosing Old Friends to care for this great champion and to celebrate his magnificent legacy with thousands of our annual visitors. Being able to welcome our fourth Kentucky Derby winner to retire at Old Friends is further tribute to the vision and values of our founder and my friend, Michael Blowen.” Reddam added, “It is fantastic that he will have a permanent home at Old Friends where everyone can visit him. There was a lot of concern when he went to Japan for stud duty and that is permanently put to rest with his return to Kentucky.” I'll Have Another is the fourth GI Kentucky Derby and GI Preakness S. winner to be retired to the farm. The other three are Silver Charm, War Emblem, and Charismatic. “I'll Have Another is an amazing horse–very blue collar, workmanlike,” O'Neill said. “He was so naturally competitive. He meant and still means so much to us around the barn. He took us on the ride of a lifetime winning the Santa Anita Derby, Kentucky Derby and the Preakness. We're so grateful for his brilliance and being able to work alongside him during his amazing career.” Upon his retirement, I'll Have Another was sold for $10 million to the Hokkaido-based Big Red Farm in Japan and began his stud career there in 2013. He remained there through 2018, then returned to the United States and stood at Ballena Vista Farm in Ramona, Calif. from 2019 to 2020, before moving to Reddam's Ocean Breeze Ranch in Bonsall, Calif. from 2021 to 2024. He was pensioned in 2024. “We are so grateful to Mr. Reddam and to Doug for trusting us to give their Derby and Preakness winner a safe, healthy, and fun retirement,” said Michael Blowen, founder and past president of Old Friends. “We're planning to put I'll Have Another in the paddock adjacent to Lava Man's. How cool is that?” The post Old Friends Welcomes 2012 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Winner I’ll Have Another appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Derby winner North Light (Ire) (Danehill) was euthanized on Mar. 20 due to complications from laminitis, The Stronach Group announced on Thursday. The 23-year-old stallion had been pensioned since 2020 and will be laid to rest at Adena South in Ocala Florida. Bred and raced by Ballymacoll Stud and trained by Sir Michael Stoute, the son of G1 Prix du Cadran heroine Sought Out (Ire) (Rainbow Quest) won one of two starts at two, and added the G2 Dante S. and G1 Derby in succession during the spring of 2004. A half-brother to multiple group winner Cover Up (Ire) (Machiavellian), he then found only Grey Swallow (Ire) (Daylami {Ire}) too good in the G1 Irish Derby and ended his season with a fifth in the G1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. At four, he was second in the G3 Brigadier Gerard S., and ended his career with a mark of 7-3-3-0 and $1,989,577 in earnings. Upon retirement, a majority interest in North Light was purchased by Frank Stronach, who stood the bay at his Adena Springs in Kentucky beginning in 2006. Moved to Adena North in Canada for his fifth season in 2010, he was leased to Kirsten Rausing's Lanwades Stud in England for one season in 2014. Repatriated to Canada beginning in 2015, he was pensioned in October of 2019 and lived out the rest of his days at Adena South. (North Light) Vodafone Derby 2004 pic.twitter.com/HmppDndrqQ — Racing Tales (@Racing_Tales) May 5, 2020 Among his nine worldwide stakes winners were G1 St Leger hero Arctic Cosmos, who also was placed in three other group races, GII Del Mar H. hero Celtic New Year, Grade III winners Chips All In and Go Forth North, and Brazilian Group 2 winner Gol Tricolor (Brz). His daughters have produced five stakes winners, three of them Grade/Group 1 scorers–triple top-level winner War Like Goddess (English Channel), G1 Coolmore Classic heroine Lighthouse (Mizzen Mast), and Olympic Jolteon (Brz) (Elmustanser {GB}). The post Derby Winner North Light Dies At 23 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Winner of the 2023 San Luis Rey Stakes (G3T) for trainer Michael McCarthy, Offlee Naughty must face a field that includes the first three finishers of the recent San Marcos Stakes (G3T).View the full article

By Michael Guerin The synergy between two of the emerging stars of New Zealand harness racing is unmistakable. And tonight they could, maybe should, combine to win the $110,000 Pascoes Northern Oaks at Alexandra Park. On one of the strongest nights of black type racing this season it could be All You Need Is Me and her junior driver Carter Dalgety who steal the show with the Canterbury filly drawn to dominate the Oaks. She has barrier 2 and the respect to secure an uncontested lead after two crushing wins in the last fortnight. It is appropriate Dalgety has been along for the ride as he and All You Need Is Me have much is common. All You Need Is Me is a daughter of champion mare Adore Me, one of the all-time great female pacers in this part of the world and after a slow start to her career mum’s genes are starting to shine through. Dalgety also has the breeding for future harness racing greatness, his father outstanding trainer Cran and his mother Chrissie not only in the partnership now but a member of the famous Butt dynasty. In a touch of irony, Adore Me’s last start and arguably bravest performance came when second in an Auckland Cup, beaten by the Dalgety-trained Christen Me. Now Dalgety hopes the three-year-old filly can become his springboard horse, the filly that helps launch his career as he strives for his 100th domestic winning drive tonight. “I have been lucky enough to drive some really good horses already, like Krug who gave me a Group 1,” says the 20-year-old. “But I hope this filly might be the horse to put me into Group 1 races regularly, whereas I only got on Krug after he has won all his Derbys. “She is a very good filly and if she goes on to be a top mare I’d love to go on that ride with her.” While crossing Adore Me with pacing’s most gifted stallion in Captaintreacherous sounded like a guaranteed recipe for success, Dalgety says All You Need Is Me wasn’t always a star. “She could run as a young horse but was very immature and took some making so we gave her time and after each spell she came back better. “But the penny has dropped now and she feels like a really good filly. Her stride is enormous and she is very fast.” The brutality of All You Need Is Me’s last two Alexandra Park wins should guarantee her the lead tonight and with key rival Duchess Megxit likely to have to cover a lot more ground, possibly even sitting parked over the last 800m, the hot favourite may be unstoppable. Dalgety thinks he can also win the two-year-old fillies race tonight with Justyouwait (R3, No.1), who should lead and again the danger could be a Purdon/Phelan-trained filly in Youretheonethatiwant (No.5), who has looked sharp at the trials. Team Dalgety also have Republican Party in the City Of Auckland Free-For-All and while he was dazzling at the trials last week he faces a very tricky draw in what should be a tactical race. Don’t Stop Dreaming, who was fifth in the Miracle Mile last start, is the hot favourite for the 2200m race which will be a crucial form guide to the $1m Race by Grins at Cambridge on April 12. View the full article