Wandering Eyes

Juddmonte's Impel (Quality Road–Your Love, by Flatter) took to two turns and stiffer company seemingly with ease at Oaklawn Park in what was her second start. The homebred proved exactly why she was named a 'TDN Rising Star' at first asking in New Orleans Jan. 1. A heavy favorite coming up from Brad Cox's Fair Grounds base, the filly was keen early, but she settled down behind a longshot into the first turn. Ready to roll just before the far turn, the 3-year-old uncorked, began to clear as the lane arrived and she dominated to a multiple-length win over Merasol Sugar (Constitution). The final running time was 1:45.10. O/B-Juddmonte Farms; T-Brad Cox. The @juddmontefarms homebred #5 Impel stretches out and romps to stay perfect in R4 at Oaklawn Park for trainer @bradcoxracing with @christiantorr64 aboard! A bright future ahead for this 3YO filly! You can add her to your TwinSpires #StableAlerts! #TwinSpiresReplay pic.twitter.com/xyjJS3FYeq — TwinSpires Racing (@TwinSpires) March 3, 2024 The post ‘TDN Rising Star’ Impel Impresses At Oaklawn To Stay Perfect appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Observations on the European Racing Scene turns the spotlight on the best European races of the day, highlighting well-pedigreed horses early in their careers, horses of note returning to action and young runners that achieved notable results in the sales ring. Monday's Observations features a brother to Grade I winner Adhamo. 18.21 Toulouse, Mdn, €21,000, 3yo, c/g, 10 1/2fT QUANTUM (FR) (Intello {Ger}) is the sole debutante in the line-up, but is a significant runner as a full-brother to the 2022 GI United Nations S. hero Adhamo (Ire). Related to the sire Attendu (Fr), the May-foaled Wertheimer homebred has shown trainer Christophe Ferland enough to warrant entries in the G1 Prix du Jockey Club and G1 Grand Prix de Paris. The post Monday’s Observations: Brother to Adhamo Debuts at Toulouse appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The $125,000 Hurricane Bertie Stakes (G3) March 9 at Gulfstream Park has drawn a field of eight fillies and mares to contest the 6-1/2 furlong dirt test with Amo Racing USA's Olivia Darling looking ripe for the asking.View the full article

A full-sister to MGSW & GISP First Captain, Sedona (f, 3, Curling–America, by A.P. Indy) hit the mark at first asking in Gulfstream Park's seventh race to don cap and gown. Not the fastest into stride after the break, the $2-million near topper at the 2022 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Select Yearling sale trailed the leading pack in fifth and was still in that spot when they arrived in the lane. Closing steadfastly, she found a strong late kick to overhaul Neat Trick (Good Magic) and On Command (Omaha Beach) in the final sixteenth. Favored firster #6 SEDONA ($5.40) closes down the outside to make her debut a winning one in R7 at Gulfstream. The well-bred $2 million yearling purchase was ridden by @jose93_ortiz for Shug McGaughey and owners @westpointtbred, @woodfordracing, and Chris Larsen. pic.twitter.com/K1WDb1TC4j — TVG (@TVG) March 3, 2024 Sales history: $2,000,000 Ylg '22 FTSAUG. O-Woodford Racing, LLC, West Point Thoroughbreds and Chris Larsen; B-B. Flay Thoroughbreds (KY); T-Claude R. McGaughey III. The post Pricey Curlin Filly Sedona Gets It Done at First Asking appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Explore a multitude of captivating racing promotions offered by horse racing bookmakers on Monday, March 4. Immerse yourself in the thrill with generous bonus back offers, elevating your betting experience. Delve into these complimentary promotions from top-tier online bookmakers to maximize your betting opportunities. The top Australian racing promotions for March 4, 2024, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions 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 Place a 4+ leg multi , if one leg fails Bonus Back up to $50 Applies to first eligible 4+ multi every day. Paid in Bonus Cash 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 Daily Trifecta Boosts Boost your winnings on Trifecta by 10% with new Daily trifecta boosts. Thoroughbreds only. T&Cs apply. Login to UniBet to Claim Promo How does horsebetting.com.au source its racing bonus offers? HorseBetting.com.au meticulously assesses leading Australian horse racing bookmakers, revealing exclusive thoroughbred bonus promotions for March 4, 2024. These ongoing offers underscore the dedication of top horse racing bookmakers. In the realm of horse racing betting, when one bookmaker isn’t featuring a promotion, another is stepping up. Count on HorseBetting.com.au as your go-to source for daily rewarding horse racing bookmaker bonuses. Enhance your value with competitive odds and exclusive promotions tailored for existing customers. Easily access these offers by logging in to each online bookmaker’s platform. For valuable insights into races and horses to optimise your bonus bets, trust HorseBetting’s daily free racing tips. More horse racing promotions View the full article

Driver Penalties L Hollis | Non-raceday dated 26 February; placed bet in a race that he drove; fined $700. I Cameron | NZ Metropolitan 29 February; use of whip; suspended 11-20 March inclusive. J Dunn | Auckland 16 February (heard Auckland 1 March); careless driving; suspended 4-8 March inclusive. D Grundmann | Auckland 1 March; out of position at start; fined $100. K McClintock | Rangiora 3 March; use of whip; suspended 4 March – 3 April inclusive. C Negus | Rangiora 3 March; use of whip; suspended 4 March – 3 April inclusive. N Munro | Rangiora 3 March; breach of push out rule; fined $200. R Holmes | Rangiora 3 March; careless driving; suspended 11-24 April inclusive. R Houghton | Rangiora 3 March; careless driving; suspended 11-17 April inclusive. M Purvis | Rangiora 3 March; careless driving; fined $400. Trainer Penalties T Healy | Non-raceday dated 26 February; possessed a modified metal lined whip; fined $1,650 and costs of $5,300. B McIntyre | Invercargill 1 March; incorrect gear; fined $100 R Austin | Invercargill 1 March; incorrect gear; fined $100. M Purvis | Non-raceday dated 28 February; misconduct; fined $900. G Pullen | Rangiora 3 March; failed to advise last date of service; fined $100. Horse Penalties KD HAWK | NZ Metropolitan 29 February; broke in running; must complete trial. OLIVE OIL | Invercargill 1 March; broke in running; must complete trial. NOTONYOURNALLY | Invercargill 1 March; lame; veterinary clearance required. IMPERIAL COMMAND | Rangiora 3 March; refused to come to starting position; must complete standing start trial. MAINBOCHER | Rangiora 3 March; broke in running; must complete trial. RACHMANINOV | Rangiora 3 March; late scratching on veterinary advice; veterinary clearance required. Protests NYLA | Invercargill 1 March | unsatisfactory manners prior to start; declared a non-runner. IMPERIAL COMMAND | Rangiora 3 March; unsatisfactory manners prior to start; declared a non-runner. The post 26 February – 3 March 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Deterministic (Liam's Map) exited his victory in the GIII Gotham S. at Aqueduct Saturday in fine shape and connections are still mulling a possible next start for the sophomore. “He came back in good order. We're very much enjoying the fact that he won the Gotham yesterday. It was a very strong performance and we're happy with the way he looks this morning,” trainer Christophe Clement said Sunday. “We will probably ship him to Florida this week. He's done very well in Florida and the weather is more under control. He's been here for the last three months and training well here, so no need to change too much at the moment.” A debut winner at Saratoga last August, Deterministic was making just his second lifetime start in the Gotham. “No decision whatsoever made for the next start,” Clement said. “At the moment, the only worry is the well-being of the horse and we'll go from there. We'll get him to a work and the work will tell us what to do with him.” Clement, who won the 2014 GI Belmont S. with Tonalist (Tapit), said he would only enjoy a first GI Kentucky Derby starter, but only if his charge had a decent shot at victory on the First Saturday in May. “To run, no–to win, yes,” said Clement, with a laugh. “Running is not very exciting, but winning is. If he was to go that route, that would be very exciting. At the moment, we need to evaluate a next start and I believe, most probably, he would need to run before the Derby.” Clement also saddled Capital Idea (Classic Empire) in the Gotham. The bay colt, a maiden winner at Aqueduct in January, had a wide trip in his stakes debut while finishing fifth. “I thought he ran OK. He had a very bad post and he was carried wide all the way, but he actually tried and he finished,” Clement said. “We'd love to go a mile and an eighth and two turns with him next time, but where, I don't know. I think the longer the better. He came back in good order. He trained in New York all winter, so I left him in New York.” Clement agreed the Apr. 6 GII Wood Memorial might be an option for Capital Idea, as well as for stablemate Pandagate (Arrogate), who captured the Gander S. at Aqueduct Feb. 25. Other options for Pandagate include the Apr. 20 Federico Tesio S. at Laurel Park or the Mar. 30 G2 2 UAE Derby at Meydan Racecourse. “He came back last week and we'll get to a work at the end of this week. We're very happy with him. He's another one that we'll leave eligible for everything,” Clement said of Pandagate. Also exiting a stakes win at Aqueduct Saturday in fine shape was Jody's Pride (American Pharoah), who earned 50 qualifying points to the GI Kentucky Oaks with her victory in the Busher S. “She came back great, everything is great,” said trainer Jorge Abreu. “It's very exciting for us. Going to the Breeders' Cup was such a fun ride for us and she showed up over there. To see the performance she put in on that day, we were like, 'Wow,' so we gave her 30 days [off], and then she grew up and got bigger and stronger. Yesterday, she showed it.” Jody's Pride was second, beaten just a neck by Just F Y I (Justify), in the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies last November. She is likely to remain in New York and make her next start in the Apr. 6 GIII Gazelle S., according to Abreu. “I don't want to keep moving her around,” said Abreu. “She's already run four races at three different tracks and four different distances. She likes Aqueduct, too.” The post Deterministic Fine after Gotham Win appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Showing modest form throughout most of his career, Cosmo Kuranda (Jpn) (Al Ain {Jpn}) broke through with a convincing victory as a 33-1 outsider in Sunday's Deep Impact Kinen (Japanese 2000 Guineas Trial) at Nakayama. Supported by a single win in 2023-recorded at Niigata Oct. 29–the colt kicked off this season with a workmanlike fifth over this course and trip Jan. 8. He settled near the back of the field early as longshot Sirius Colt (Jpn) (Makfi {GB}) cruised uncontested in front. Quickly picking off his rivals from a wide berth with 800 meters left to negotiate, the dark bay caught the pacesetter turning for home, poked his head in front midstretch and drew clear to score by 1 1/4 lengths over the fast-closing third choice Shin Emperor (Fr) (Siyouni {Fr}) with Sirius Colt holding on for third. Favored Trovatore (Jpn) (Rey de Oro {Jpn}) ran an even race throughout to finish sixth. Pedigree Notes: Cosmo Kuranda, a member Al Ain's limited first crop of runners, becomes the Japanese 2000 Guineas victor's first black-type/group winner. Dam Southern Speed posted her most important scores in the G1 Caulfield Cup and G2 Makybe Diva S. in addition to placing in three additional events at the highest level. The 17-year-old mare hails from the family of champion 3-year-old filly and G1 Golden Slipper heroine Ha Ha (Aus) (Danehill). Sunday, Nakayama, Japan HOCHI HAI YAYOI SHO DEEP IMPACT KINEN-G2, ¥104,620,000, Nakayama, 3-3, 3yo, 2000mT, 1:59.80, fm. 1–COSMO KURANDA (JPN), 126, c, 3, Al Ain (Jpn) 1st Dam: Southern Speed (Aus) (G1SW-Aus), by Southern Image 2nd Dam: Golden Eagle (NZ), by Zabeel (NZ) 3rd Dam: Rising Eagle (Aus), by Danehill 1ST BLACK-TYPE WIN; 1ST GROUP WIN. O/B-Big Red Farm; T-Shizuya Kato; J-Mirco Demuro; ¥54,784,000. Lifetime Record: 7-2-2-0. Werk Nick Rating: F. Click for the eNicks report & 5-cross pedigree. 2–Shin Emperor (Fr), 126, c, 3, Siyouni (Fr)–Starlet's Sister (Ire), by Galileo (Ire). O-Susumu Fujita; B-Ecurie Des Monceaux; ¥22,208,000. 3–Sirius Colt (Jpn), 126, c, 3, Makfi (GB)–Old Flame (Jpn), by Zenno Rob Roy (Jpn). O-Masatake Iida; B-Chiyoda Farm; ¥4,112,000. Margins: 1 1/4, 1 1/4, NK; Odds: 33.90, 2.50, 75.60. Click for the JRA chart & video. Click for the free Equineline.com catalogue-style pedigree The post Cosmo Kuranda Punches Ticket to Japanese 2000 Guineas appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Helios Express overcame a muddling pace and severe traffic issues to win the Hong Kong Classic Cup March 3 at Sha Tin Racecourse, keeping alive his chances to sweep the 4-Year-Old Classic series with another score in the Hong Kong Derby.View the full article

Trainer Jack Davison says he is convinced that rapid improver Bergamasco (Ire) (Cappella Sansevero {GB}) is a Group horse in the making and is preparing the colt for a tilt at the Britannia S. at Royal Ascot following a career-best performance in winning the Patton Race at Dundalk on Friday. Bergamasco has gone from strength to strength at Dundalk over the winter by winning three times, including when accounting for Nerano (War Front) and the 104-rated Navy Seal (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}) in the one-mile contest, which was recently downgraded from Listed status. Despite that silky smooth success, the handler confirmed that no offers have been levelled at connections, who are happy to roll the big dice with a horse that was acquired for just €12,000 as a yearling. Davison said, “Bergamasco has loads of options now. I think he'll get nine or 10 pounds for Friday, which would get him into the Britannia Stakes at Royal Ascot. Hopefully he'd have a live chance in a race like that.” He added, “I think he's a Group horse. I really fancied him on Friday because I thought it would take a Stakes horse to win it. I watched his replay of his previous win and, when a race is run to suit, he's capable of quickening up off a fast pace. The time of the race on Friday was quite good as well.” Bergamasco races in the colours of the trainer's parents, John and Paula, who are hugely distinguished breeders in their own right under the banner of Killarkin Stud. Davison explained how, from humble beginnings, Bergamasco has provided the family with a great amount of enjoyment, and says he is confident that there is plenty more fun to be had with the improving three-year-old. He said, “I bought him off Tally-Ho Stud and a good friend of mine, Tommy Burns, who bred him, for just €12,000 at the Goffs Autumn Yearling Sale. I bought a lot of yearlings that year–some expensive ones–and then my parents said that they'd quite like a colt to race and he was the cheapest one we bought. He's pretty highly-rated now and has won almost €50,000 in prize-money so he has worked out well. It's a good story.” Davison added, “There hasn't been much interest in the horse since Friday. I think people underestimate a horse like him just because of his sire, really. It was just a three-runner race at Dundalk and I suppose all of his winning has been at Dundalk. Maybe people want to see some turf form from him? I haven't had any solid offers for the horse since he won on Friday and I certainly won't be giving him away either because I think there is loads to come from him. He could be a horse to go to a London Sale with an entry in the Britannia Stakes. That could be an option. “I'm very much a, 'have horse will travel,' kind of trainer, which is why I won't be giving this lad away. If you look beyond Ascot, there is a lot of money on offer in places like Saudi Arabia, which could be right up his street. He could be ideal for big-race international targets. We're under no pressure with him.” Away from Bergamasco, Davison has big plans for classy prospect She's Quality (Ire) (Acclamation {GB}), talented sprinter Thunderbear (Ire) (Kodi Bear {Ire}) and some smart youngsters who have yet to hit the track. He explained, “I think highly of She's Quality. She might make a reappearance in a six-furlong conditions race at Dundalk in a fortnight's time. She was always going to be more of a three-year-old as she's very big. I'd say she's a nice sprinter in the making. Thunderbear really thrives for soft underfoot conditions. We might run him in a handicap on the opening day of the season at the Curragh. He'll be top weight, no doubt, but we'll probably claim off him and try and get a bit of confidence into him.” Davison added, “I have one really nice two-year-old colt but I won't say his name for fear of jinxing him! But he's a nicer horse than Bergamasco and he hasn't even seen a racecourse yet. “We have a lovely team of 25 horses. Everything we have is worth having in training in Ireland so we're really happy with how things are building towards the season ahead. It's all about stats now. If I bring a runner to the races, I want people to take note. If we can keep that going forward, we'll be very happy.” The post “He’s A Group Horse” – Davison Has Royal Ascot Plan For Rapid Improver appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Godolphin homebred Encino broke his maiden over course and distance Jan. 26 and parlayed that right into points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby with a win in Saturday night's John Battaglia Memorial S. at Turfway Park. Debuting as the beaten favorite, albeit by only a neck, over a mile on the Tapeta Dec. 29, the Brad Cox trainee stepped up with a gate-to-wire run second-time out in a better than it seemed half-length win. Sent at 5-1 Saturday behind race favorite Epic Ride, Encino broke nearly widest of the field but was able to tuck in on the run to the first turn and sit a stalking trip behind a quartet of pacers up front. Situated just off the hip of the favorite up the backstretch, he followed that one's move into the far turn, had to swing outside of him as they straightened away and dug in gamely to get by close to home. “After I broke pretty well from the gate I was able to get over and begin to follow Epic Ride,” said winning rider and reigning Eclipse Award winner Axel Concepcion. “He relaxed very well down the backside and around the far turn I was able to ask him for his best run. I had a lot of horse still left down the lane and he continued to run hard all the way to the wire.” His dam's second foal and first to race, Encino is the 23rd stakes winner for his sire and out of a half-sister to champion 2-year-old, GI Kentucky Derby winner and sire Street Sense (Street Cry {Ire}). Glittering Jewel has since produced back to back fillies by Street Boss before visiting Good Magic for this year. Click for the Equibase.com chart or VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. ENCINO paves his own way to victory in the John Battaglia Memorial Stakes at @TurfwayPark, collecting 20 points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby! pic.twitter.com/oX4sqbVwYS — TDN (@theTDN) March 3, 2024 JOHN BATTAGLIA MEMORIAL S., $142,500, Turfway, 3-2, 3yo, 1 1/16m (AWT), 1:44.22, ft. 1–ENCINO, 118, c, 3, by Nyquist 1st Dam: Glittering Jewel, by Bernardini 2nd Dam: Bedazzle, by Dixieland Band 3rd Dam: Majestic Legend, by His Majesty 1ST BLACK TYPE WIN. O/B-Godolphin (KY); T-Brad H. Cox; J-Axel Concepcion. $87,536. Lifetime Record: 3-2-1-0, $141,971. 2–Epic Ride, 124, c, 3, Blame–Pick a Time, by Gio Ponti. ($160,000 Ylg '22 KEESEP). O-Welch Racing LLC; B-Fred W. Hertrich (KY); T-John Ennis. $28,560. 3–Blue Eyed George, 120, c, 3, Flameaway–Acting Naughty, by Offlee Wild. ($50,000 Ylg '22 TTAYRL; $200,000 2yo '23 OBSAPR). O-BG Stables; B-Clear Creek Stud LLC (LA); T-Michael McCarthy. $9,280. Margins: 1, 1 3/4, 4 3/4. Odds: 5.69, 1.16, 3.88. Also Ran: Mugatu, Ode to Balius, Bolt At Midnight, Mission Ready, Karlwithanarl, Good Bali, Fidget, Mr. Faversham. Scratched: Break Out, Gettysburg Address, Katheeb. The post Godolphin’s Encino Gets By Epic Ride In John Battaglia Upset appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Sent away as the $16.50 (65-100) jolly to add Sunday's HK$13-million Hong Kong Classic Cup to last month's Hong Kong Classic Mile, top-rated Helios Express (Aus) (Toronado {Ire}) managed to work his way out of a jackpot with 200 metres to travel and flashed home to touch off an extremely game Chancheng Glory (Mor Spirit) by a short head Sunday afternoon at Sha Tin Racecourse. He can join the likes of the late Rapper Dragon (Aus) (Street Boss) and Golden Sixty (Aus) (Medaglia d'Oro) as Triple Crown winners should he negotiate the step up to the 2000 metres in the HK$26-million BMW Hong Kong Derby in three weeks. Having shown a penchant to want to do too much in the Classic Mile, Helios Express was going to need to relax in the nine-furlong contest if he was to see out the trip. He switched off well enough mid-division and against the rail in the early stages as Beauty Crescent (Ire) (Acclamation {GB}) and Chancheng Glory came across from their wide draws to dispute whatever pace there was. But by about midway, Helios Express was tugging hard and Hugh Bowman had his hands full and his feet in the dashboard, doing everything in his power to try and save something for a finish. The favourite went better on the turn as Beauty Crescent turned them into the Sha Tin straight, but he was going to have to be ridden for some luck. Held together inside, Helios Express quickly moved onto the leaders' heels, but his stablemate Ensued (Lemon Drop Kid) was there three off the fence and the no exit sign was illuminated for a handful of strides. But owing to the fact that Ensued lacks acceleration, Helios Express pushed away from the inside and now had dead aim on Chancheng Glory, who went to the front 250m from home. The latter, a 51-1 chance, had something left and wasn't going away, but Bowman kept after Helios Express and shoved him across the line. Ensued was a one-paced third ahead of Classic Mile third Star Mac (Aus) (Heroic Valour {Aus}), who got home well from the tail. “There were a few anxious moments at the 700m when I couldn't hold him but I was given no option but to ride him as I rode him, given the way the race panned out,” said Bowman, a two-time Derby winner, but registering his first in the Classic Cup. “He settled really well but then when the pace started to change, it got really muddling around the corner, he didn't cope with that very well. It's hard to be too critical of him for that reason, either. With a smooth run race (in the Derby), he'll be okay. “He needs an even tempo, he doesn't particularly need it fast. Like all horses, he's going to benefit from an even pace. It's not only him–it's the entire field.” Classic Cups for John Size! Unique Jewellery (2009) It Has To Be You (2013) Thunder Fantasy (2015) Sun Jewellery (2016) Helios Express (2024) @A_Evers | #4YOSeries | #HKracing pic.twitter.com/wJ9lM3yTRy — HKJC Racing (@HKJC_Racing) March 3, 2024 Pedigree Notes: Western Australian-bred Helios Express continues an outstanding run in Hong Kong for his sire, who sits second behind Deep Field (Aus) in progeny earnings for the current season and his two stakes winners ranks as joint-best alongside Starspangledbanner (Aus). His other black-type scorer this term is G1 Centenary Sprint Cup hero Victor the Winner (Aus), who is a probable starter in the G1 Takamatsunomiya Kinen at Chuyko Racecourse Mar. 24. A three-time winner at the races, Paris Texas passed away in September 2021 according to the Australian Stud Book, but has left behind Helios Express's unraced 3-year-old full-sister Isolation Ridge (Aus), who is in training with Lindsey Smith at Linton in Victoria. Sunday, Sha Tin, Hong Kong HONG KONG CLASSIC CUP-LR, HK$13,000,000, Sha Tin, 3-3, NH/SH4yo, 1800mT, 1:47.73, gd. 1–HELIOS EXPRESS (AUS), 126, g, 4, by Toronado (Ire) 1st Dam: Paris Texas (Aus), by Hinchinbrook (Aus) 2nd Dam: Hialeah Star (Aus), by Luskin Star (Aus) 3rd Dam: Hialeah Gold (Aus), by Sovereign Red (NZ) O-Andy Yung Ming Tai; B-C Wells (WA); T-John Size; J-Hugh Bowman; HK$7,280,000. Lifetime Record: 9-7-1-1, HK$23,070,200. *Formerly Tex Mex (Aus). Werk Nick Rating: A++. Click for the eNicks report & 5-cross pedigree or the free Equineline.com catalogue-style pedigree. 2–Chancheng Glory, 126, g, 4, Mor Spirit–Solid Scam, by Consolidator. ($50,000 Wlg '20 KEENOV; $110,000 Ylg '21 KEESEP; $220,000 RNA 2yo '22 OBSMAR). O-Chancheng Racing Syndicate; B-H Allen Poindexter (IA); T-Francis Lui; J-Keegan de Melo; HK$2,730,000. 3–Ensued, 126, g, 4, Lemon Drop Kid–Alluvial Gold (Ire), by Danehill Dancer (Ire). ($120,000 Ylg '21 KEESEP; €260,000 2yo '22 ARQMAY). O-Ada Wong Yin Man; B-T/C Stable LLC (KY); T-John Size; J-Ryan Moore; HK$1,495,000. Margins: SHD, 2HF, 3/4. Odds: 65-100, 51-1, 69-10. Also Ran: Star Mac (Aus), Beauty Crescent (Ire), Helene Feeling (Ire), Chill Chibi (NZ), Unbelievable, Speed Dragon (NZ), Fallon (Ire), Elliptical (Aus), Simply Maverick (Aus), Ka Ying Generation (Ire), Awesome Fluke (Aus). Click for the HKJC chart, PPs and sectional timing. The post Helios Express Leaves It Late In Hong Kong Classic Cup appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Wayne Lordan described his return to race-riding at Dundalk on Friday following an eight-month spell on the sidelines through injury as “a great feeling” and admitted to not realising how much he missed competitive action until he got the leg up aboard Navy Seal (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}) in the Patton Race. Alas, the Aidan O'Brien-trained colt could not provide Lordan with a dream return, as he trailed home last of the three runners, but Lordan's spirits could not have been dented after completing the comeback. The multiple Group 1 and Classic-winning rider, who has been a key cog in the Ballydoyle operation for some years now, suffered career-threatening injuries when he was unshipped from the ill-fated San Antonio (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}) in the Irish Derby last July. That left Lordan with fractures to his legs and elbow, along with a laceration to his arm, but Cork native said he never doubted that he would make a return to the saddle during his recovery. He explained, “It was great to get back–a great feeling. A lot of the time spent off was purely recovery. I had a lot of tests that I needed to pass in order to get back and that takes time. “I had to wait to get all of the right results back and thankfully they did. The other side to it was the injury took place towards the end of the year, so my recovery was over the winter, and that made things a bit easier. It's not a crazy busy time of the year for a jockey and it made it a bit easier watching on.” He added, “I was always confident that everything was going well. You're just waiting for the right boxes to be ticked and everyone else to be happy. I've felt good for a while now. I started back in the gym back in November.” Lordan is one of the most decorated riders in Ireland. He cemented his relationship with O'Brien when partnering Winter (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) to victory in the 2017 1,000 Guineas. He has since been associated with top-notch horses like Iridessa (Ire) (Ruler Of The World {Ire}), for whom he was at his brilliant best aboard in the 2019 Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Turf, Mother Earth (Ire) (Zoffany {Ire}), Magical (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) and more. On his return, Lordan continued, “It's not until you get back race-riding that you realise how much you've missed it. I got back into Ballydoyle on January 3 and it was just a brilliant feeling to go back in there. It's a nice time of year. From finding two-year-olds, to looking forward to the three-year-olds, there's a lot of excitement in the air. Time will tell as the season goes on.” The post Lordan Buzzing To Be Back Riding Eight Months After Horror Spill In Irish Derby appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Winning machine Sparks Fly (GB) (Muhaarar {GB}) is firmly on course to make her seasonal return in the Lincoln at Doncaster, trainer David Loughnane confirmed. An eight-time winner, Sparks Fly landed a Listed contest at Saint-Cloud by a whopping 12 lengths last term, and connections are now eyeing big-race riches at Doncaster. Loughnane said, “She was a real flagbearer for us [last season]. She was the winning-most horse in Britain and she started off with a rating of 59 and finished off on 107-that was exceptional.” He added, “She's wintered really nicely, she enjoyed her holiday but she gets bored pretty quickly, so we were quite keen to get her back into work. She's not one that likes to be out of work for long but she's done well for a break. “At the moment, our first port of call will be the Lincoln if all goes to plan, she gets there on time and the ground is right for her. We'll probably look to campaign her in the first half of the season, give her a little break in the middle part and then bring her back again for the second half.” Sparks Fly, who carries the silks of her owner-breeder David Lowe, can be backed at odds of 16-1 for the Lincoln. The post Winning Machine Sparks Fly Set For Lincoln Return At Doncaster appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Preparations for the superstar’s swansong will ramp up a notch on Tuesday morning as his partner in crime jets off to Switzerland for rehabView the full article

Former Aidan O’Brien-trained galloper explodes on Hong Kong debut, leaving trainer Dennis Yip and jockey Zac Purton beamingView the full article

Andrea Atzeni steers the six-year-old, who was once one of Hong Kong’s most promising speedsters, to an impressive all-the-way victory at Sha TinView the full article

John Size’s rising star keeps four-year-old treble hopes alive after thrilling win over a brave Chancheng Glory at Sha Tin on SundayView the full article

The Dick Leech-trained Write Your Name (right), ridden by Darwin apprentice Jade Hampson, posting a narrow win at Pioneer Park on Saturday. Picture: Nikki Westover Photography Write Your Name, Horse of the Year in both Darwin and Alice Springs last year, made a winning return in the Red Centre on Saturday. The Dick Leech-trained eight-year-old gelding, who won the 2023 Darwin and Alice Springs Cups, finished strongly before saluting in an open 1200m handicap. It was his first Pioneer Park appearance since winning the Alice Springs Cup (2000m) last April and it was his first start since finishing eighth in the Murray Bridge Cup (1600m) last October. With Alice Springs’ Cup Carnival imminent, Write Your Name could be set for yet another successful campaign. A dominant force last year after winning four races in five weeks, Write Your Name ($6) overcame four rivals on Saturday after hitting the front with 100m remaining to pip Ray Viney’s Kickatorp ($3.50) by a head. The in-form Great Buy ($1.95) had led for most of the way, but with 300m to go all five runners were spread across the track. Terry Gillett’s Great Buy finished third ahead of stablemates Valley Prince and last year’s Pioneer Sprint winner Supreme Attraction. Kickatorp was forced four deep turning for home and that clearly cost him victory. Darwin apprentice Jade Hampson, fresh from a Darwin treble on Friday, partnered Write Your Name on Saturday – both combined to win last year’s Cup. On an eventful day, only one favourite prevailed at Pioneer Park. Viney and jockey Jessie Philpot secured a double with Duty ($2.30) and Tango Stepz ($5.50), while veteran jockey Paul Denton hit the front in the Alice Springs and Provincial jockeys’ premiership with a double. Duty produced a spectacular effort to down Mi Mijo ($26) and Prophesier ($16) over 1600m (BM54). Eight lengths adrift in 10th place passing the 1100m, Duty was the last of 12 at the 700m and with his path blocked Philpot elected to circle the field. He was forced seven deep turning for home and never looked like catching Mi Mijo and Prophesier before swooping at the 100m to win by 1.7 lengths. Tango Stepz, camped in third place, left the fence approaching the final corner before overcoming Bullinachinashop ($2.50) and Madam Mischief ($5.50) by two lengths over 1000m (0-64). Denton, who surpassed Sonja Logan (11.5) with 12 wins for the season, won both divisions of the Class 2 (1100m) aboard Lisa Whittle’s Il Don Cavallo ($12) and Kerry Petrick’s Hellivit ($21). Il Don Cavallo, who travelled wide, won narrowly from Protostar ($2.05) and Miss Miduki ($9), while Hellivit, who shared the lead, kicked away at the 600m before downing Lamoree ($5) and Rupert’s Delight ($7) by two lengths. Carrol Hunter’s Desert Lass ($9.50), second in last year’s Alice Springs Cup, bounced back after a first up seventh in open class over 1200m a fortnight ago to sink That’s Justified ($3.50) and Century Fox ($2.80) over 1400m (BM76). The seven-year-old mare was never far from the lead before passing That’s Justified at the 100m to seal a comfortable win. Visiting Adelaide apprentice Jade Doyle, formerly of Alice Springs, partnered Desert Lass. Paul Gardner (16) maintained his advantage over Whittle (13) in the trainers’ premiership when Perkova ($17) caught stablemate Red Wraith ($3.50) – returning from a spell – right on the line to win by a head over 1200m (0-70). Perkova (Dylan Stanley) jumped well from the outside gate (nine) and travelled smoothly despite sitting wide throughout before chasing down Red Wraith, Square Cut ($3.50), who finished a narrow third, and Brat in the home straight. With three wins and four minor placings from 12 starts for Gardner, Perkova was way over the odds. Horse racing news View the full article

Rider Penalties N Downs | Non-raceday dated 26 February; rode in jump-out without approved body protector; fined $500. U Holmquist | Matamata 29 February; careless riding; suspended 10-20 March inclusive. P Graberg | Matamata 29 February; broke riding engagement; fined $200. K Asano | Auckland 2 March; careless riding; suspended 10-23 February inclusive. B Jacobson | Wairarapa 3 March; careless riding; suspended 9-14 March inclusive. J Doyle | Wairarapa 3 March; use of whip; fined $500. Trainer Penalties J Lynds | Non-raceday dated 23 February; permitted a disqualified rider to ride trackwork; fined $2,000 and costs of $1,952.76. Horse Penalties MOTUMAN | Matamata 29 February; slow to begin; must complete trial. ZLATNA | Matamata 29 February; lame; veterinary clearance required. CORBATIN | Matamata 29 February; bled for 2nd time; ineligible to race in New Zealand. MR BIG | Matamata 29 February; unsatisfactory performance; must complete trial. STRANGE LOVE | Auckland 2 March; unsatisfactory performance; must complete trial. SWEET ENVY | Wairarapa 3 March; respiratory infection; veterinary clearance required. GUESSING GAME | Wairarapa 3 March; late scratching after rearing in barrier; veterinary clearance required and must complete trial. General The Hawke’s Bay RI meeting of 28 February was abandoned after Race 4 due to an unsafe track. The post 26 February – 3 March 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Trainer Penalty R Casey | Non-raceday dated 26 February; misconduct; fined $2,500. Dog Penalties EXTRA EDITION | Christchurch 29 February; marring (3rd offence); stood down for 3 months and must complete 2 trials. GO SONIA | Christchurch 1 March; failing to pursue the lure; stood down for 28 days and must complete trial. WEDDERBURN | Christchurch 1 March; unsatisfactory performance; must complete trial. HOMEBUSH CRICKET | Christchurch 1 March; failing to pursue the lure (2nd offence); stood down for 28 days and must complete trial. The post 26 February – 3 March 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

With eyes on bigger prizes in the coming months with stable star Lim’s Kosciuszko (Kermadec), the triumvirate of jockey Marc Lerner, owner Lim Siah Mong and trainer Daniel Meagher hit top form at Kranji on Saturday with a kiwi bred treble of wins. The most noteworthy win among them came from Lim’s Saltoro (NZ) (Shamexpress), who kept his unbeaten streak intact after he carried Lim’s Stable’s famous dark blue and yellow star silks to victory first-up after four months of break. As expected, the four-year-old son of Shamexpress had plenty of support on the back of three wins from as many starts and started as the favourite in a solid Class 4 field. After jumping fair from barrier six, Lerner pushed Lim’s Saltoro forward into a three-horse speed battle, kicking clear upon turning for home before being challenged by Pacific MV in the final furlong and battling out a win by a neck Lim’s Saltoro’s fourth win took his prizemoney to over S$100,000 for the Lim’s Stable. Meagher was quick to point out the neck margin belied the tenacity of that win and thought Lim’s Saltoro will be a major player in the upcoming feature races. “Good horse and tough win,” said Meagher, who now sits second on the trainers’ log on 12 wins, nine less than reigning champion trainer Jason Ong. “It was only by a neck but that was a very good win, to have that pressure first-up and win like he did. “Vlad said after the race that he thought his horse (Pacific MV) had us beat four times in the straight but he (Lim’s Saltoro) kept kicking. He’s a very good horse. “I think he really wants 1400m and will settle better on the turf but we had to race on the pace on the Polytrack to stay out of trouble and avoid the kickback. “So he was out of his comfort zone today but he showed good old-fashioned intestinal fortitude to win. If we keep him right, he will win the Group races. “We will set him for the four-year-old races starting with the Silver Bowl (1400m) and I reckon with his demeanour and attitude, the 1800m of the (Singapore) Derby is in his sights.” Opened to four-year-olds, the Silver Bowl will be run on 9 June and the Singapore Derby will be held on 21 July. Lerner agreed with Meagher that the win was better than the margin in the book and the Singapore Derby would be a fitting four-year-old finale for a horse he has plenty of praise for. “That was impressive,” said the French jockey, who sits third on the jockeys’ premiership with 14 wins for the season. “It was all class to do that after a long break for him (Lim’s Saltoro) and he still has improvement. “A lot of things were against us today. We knew the pressure would be on and I rode him like he was the best horse in the race. “He won on ability today but will improve when I can settle him in races and chase. He’s not an easy horse to ride and train, he needs a routine, but I think he will get over more distance for sure. “Daniel will set him for the Derby and that will be his finale.” Lim’s Smythe (NZ) (Saxon Warrior) got the ball rolling after he secured his maiden win in the Open Maiden race over 1400m, before Lim’s Saltoro and then Lim’s Bestbreaker (NZ) (Battle Paint) completed the hat-trick of wins in a Class 4 race (1600m). Of the treble of wins for Meagher and Lim’s Stable, Lerner was happy to be in a good environment that was producing results. “It was a long day but a super one and I’m happy for Dan and Mr Lim,” he continued. “Dan gives you confidence and I think that’s important and there is trust on both sides. The team (of horses) is getting smaller, but they all come to the races with winning chances. “You saw the results from three wins today and that was a team effort.” View the full article

Sprint star I Wish I Win’s autumn campaign is starting to get serious with the reining T.J. Smith Stakes champion set for a jumpout at Pakenham on Tuesday. Trainer and part-owner Peter Moody said he was pleased with the sprinter’s progress this preparation after he was given a long spell following his second placing in last spring’s The Everest. But Moody said he had not nailed down the first run in 2024 for I Wish I Win (NZ) (Savabeel). He said the Gr.1 A$1 million William Reid Stakes (1200m) at The Valley was a possible first-up target, but he said the horse could also run first-up in his autumn grand final, the A$3 million T J Smith Stakes (1200m) at Randwick on April 6. I Wish I Win will not be partnered in his jumpout by regular rider Luke Nolen, who is returning to work over the next week after a heavy fall at trackwork three weeks ago. It is expected that Nolen will be fit to ride I Wish I Win in whichever race he returns. View the full article

Lynsey Satherley’s affinity with underrated stayers continued at Ellerslie on Saturday, guiding My Maebelline Girl (NZ) (Shamoline Warrior) to victory and a place in next week’s Gr.2 Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup (3200m). Satherley secured the ride aboard Cup favourite Asterix (NZ) (Tavistock) after a sterling effort paying $14 in the Gr.2 Avondale Cup (2400m) and was tasked with a similar quote when partnering Kylie Little’s mare in the Vertical Logistics Nathans Memorial. My Maebelline Girl was among the lesser-favoured runners in the Open 2200m contest, with a valiant front-running effort for sixth in the Remutaka Classic (2100m) preceding a last-placed finish over 2000m last Saturday at Matamata. On the quick back-up, the daughter of Shamoline Warrior was slick from barrier four, taking up the pace-making role over another regular leader in Good Oil. Satherley maintained a solid tempo down the back-straight, before allowing My Maebelline Girl to extend nearing the home turn creating a three-length buffer, leaving many in the nine-horse field flat-footed. Good Oil began to close at the 200m as the mare began to tire, as was a storming 60kg topweight Trust In You, but My Maebelline Girl kept finding and fought off the latter by a short head at the post. “It was a good, tough effort. With 54kg on her back, I let her slide from the 700m and gave a good kick turning for home, and she sustained a solid gallop the whole way,” Satherley said. “You’re never too confident (leading down the straight), but she’s got the job done and it’s a great dollar for the owners and trainer.” Little was delighted following the mare’s fourth career victory, the Cambridge horsewoman also sharing in her ownership. “It’s such a thrill. My trackwork rider thought she would come and run a good race, so we had our fingers and toes crossed, and we got there,” Little said. “Lynsey rated her beautifully, it was a great ride.” The Nathans Memorial offered a final opportunity for horses to gain a ballot free exemption into the Auckland Cup, a place Little hopes to fulfil next Saturday. “She was in the Auckland Cup, but we had thought we might wait a week and go to the St Leger, a lot depended on her performance today. But, on that effort, as long as she pulls up okay, we might have a crack at the Cup.” My Maebelline Girl’s efforts warranted a dramatic rise in the Cup’s TAB Futures market to $21, while Trust In You looks an ominous hope stepping out to 3200m, now sitting a $7 equal second-favourite, just adrift of Asterix ($5). Asterix performed a track-gallop between races at Ellerslie with his regular track rider, while Satherley watching on ahead of next Saturday’s iconic feature. “I watched him (track gallop) at Matamata, he doesn’t look like he does a hell of a lot, but he’s looks in great order and I’m lucky to be on him,” she said. “It would mean a lot to win, it’s a $500,000 race and it’ll pay a few bills.” View the full article

Rider Masa Hashizume enjoyed one of his best days in the saddle when he claimed a winning treble at Ellerslie, including an impressive victory aboard Jaarffi (NZ) (Iffraaj) in the newly minted $350,000 Rangitoto Classic (1500m). The Classic is another in a series of innovative special events around the country this season, with this contest for horses from stables where their trainer sat outside of the Top 10 in prizemoney at midnight 30 November 2023. Prepared by Lance Noble at Karaka for Cambridge Stud couple Brendan and Jo Lindsay, who also bred her, the talented but enigmatic mare came with a sustained finish for Hashizume to down Central Districts visitor Town Cryer and race favourite Pour The Wine. Noble admitted the team had taken a punt with the four-year-old daughter of Iffraaj, who has been a work in progress since making her debut in March last year. “She hasn’t been the easiest mare to train, and she can be pretty difficult during her trackwork,” Noble said. “She has a lot of ability and is still learning and I did think today might have been a little bit of a bridge too far, but Brendan said have a go and we did. “Masa rode her so well as she tries to do everything at one hundred miles an hour and can fight the rider but today, with the speed on, she could relax and when she does, she can get home, which she did. “We had a look at these races (Rangitoto Classic) and we tried to target them but thought maybe it was too soon for her and we had the option to drop back to her own rating, but she has done a terrific job. “I think next year we will see the best of her and she is definitely up to black type level.” Hashizume sported a smile a mile long as he accepted congratulations after the victory. “That’s just unbelievable,” he said. “It just worked out well from the barrier as she didn’t have to do anything and travelled beautifully relaxed. “I knew she had a better sprint that Warren’s horse (jockey Warren Kennedy aboard Pour The Wine) and it worked out well. “I was confident from the corner and I knew she could run home in good time.” Hashizume had taken the first race on the card aboard Gentian Blue (NZ) (Reliable Man) before scoring on Positivity (NZ) (Almanzor) in the Gr.3 McKee Family Sunline Vase (2100m), ahead of his victory on Jaarffi. The $175,000 first prize for the race has significantly boosted the career earnings for Jaarffi who has now won three of her eight starts and $228,000 in prizemoney. Out of the Redoute’s Choice mare Pride Of Tralee, Jaarffi is closely related to the Australian champion three-year-old filly and triple Group One winner Serenade Rose and dual Group One winner Trekking. View the full article