Wandering Eyes

Picture waking up to a world where our beloved industry doesn't exist. This thought isn't just a scare tactic; it's a serious wake-up call about what's at stake–our jobs, our skills and the legacy many families have built over generations. Our industry, known for its grit and passion, is facing serious threats, both from inside and out. And yet, we've been too comfortable, too stuck in our ways, too scared to change. We've heard the tough feedback, and it's not all unwarranted. Claims that we lack emotional maturity and are stuck in our ways beg us to take a hard look in the mirror. Is it that we can't handle the tough, honest conversations necessary for growth or have we just been taking the easy way out? Our future depends on us coming together, being open to change and facing the hard truths. Leadership needs to be about collaboration and empowering everyone. We can't let those who love to see us divided win. It's time to show the doubters what we're really made of, not with just words, but with action. We're at a crucial point. The choices we make now will shape the future of Thoroughbred racing. Let's make the smart choice and take bold steps forward. The clock is ticking, and we've got too much to lose. Holding on to the hope that being underestimated is our secret weapon–they won't know what hit them. Time to roll up our sleeves and show them they're wrong! Warm regards, Clark Shepherd The post Letter to the Editor: ‘Time to Roll Up Our Sleeves’ appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Things are starting to heat up. Saturday's Busher S. at Aqueduct and Saturday's GII Davona Dale S. at Gulfstream both have the potential to shake things up. The Davona Dale will feature the return of 2-year-old champion filly Just FYI (Justify) and what looks to be an up-and-coming star in Leslie's Rose (Into Mischief). The Busher will feature Jody's Pride (American Pharoah), who was the runner-up behind Just FYI in the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies. Here's a look at the fourth installment of our Kentucky Oaks Top 10. 1) TARIFA (f, Bernardini–Kite Beach, by Awesome Again) O/B-Godolphin (KY); T-Brad Cox. Lifetime Record: 'TDN Rising Star', GSW, 4-3-0-0, $278,925. Last start: WON Feb. 17 GII Rachel Alexandra S. Kentucky Oaks Points: 50. Next Start: GII Fair Grounds Oaks, FG, March 23 or GI Ashland S., Kee, April 5 The Louisiana route to the GI Kentucky Oaks has proven to be a productive series of prep races. Tarifa, coming off her win in the GII Rachel Alexandra S. presented by Fasig-Tipton, could be the next Fair Grounds-based horse to turn into a star. Three of the last six Rachel Alexandra winners have gone on to win the Oaks. And Clairiere (Curlin), the 2021 winner went on to become a four-time Grade I winner. That bodes well for Tarifa, who surged into the top spot in this poll off of a 2 3/4-length win over the highly regarded Intricate (Gun Runner).The Rachel Alexandra was just her fourth start and her first in stakes company, so there's probably plenty of room for improvement for the Godolphin homebred. 2) JUST F Y I (f, Justify–Star Act, by Street Cry {Ire}) O/B-George Krikorian (Ky); T-Bill Mott. Lifetime Record: Ch. 2yo filly, GISW, 3-3-0-0, $1,317,750. Last start: WON Nov. 3 GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies. Kentucky Oaks Points: 40. Next Start: GII Davona Dale S., GP, Mar. 2. The Davona Dale should answer a lot of questions surrounding last year's 2-year-old champ. Her record is perfect, she won the Juvenile Fillies, and she's in the hands of Hall of Famer Bill Mott. Despite all that, she's going to have to show that she has progressed and matured since her 2-year-old season and gotten faster. Her best Beyer figure was a 79, which she recorded in the Breeders' Cup. That doesn't even make her the fastest horse in Saturday's Davona Dale. Leslie's Rose (Into Mischief) has run an 88 and an 87, numbers more indicative of a horse with the goods to win the Oaks. Mott will no doubt have her ready, but he's not exactly drilling her in the mornings. She worked five furlongs in 1:02.20 Feb. 24 and five furlongs in 1:03.60 Feb. 17. Both works were at Payson Park. 3) JODY'S PRIDE (f, American Pharoah–Jody's Song, by Scat Daddy) O-Parkland Thoroughbreds & Sportsmen Stable; B-Mr. Steve Weston (Ky); T-Jorge R Abreu. Lifetime Record: SW & GISP, 3-2-1-0, $480,250. Last start: 2nd Nov. 3 GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies. Kentucky Oaks Points: 15. Next Start: Busher S., Aqu, Mar. 2. Trainer Jorge Abreu called an audible at the line of scrimmage and decided to run Jody's Pride in the Busher instead of the Davona Dale. The Busher is a much easier race than the Davona Dale and offers the same amount of Kentucky Oaks points, with 50 points going to the winner. “We feel we can get our points easier in New York than we can in the Davona Dale,” co-owner Steve Weston told the Daily Racing Form. Flavien Prat had been riding this filly but he has commitments on the Mar. 2 card at Santa Anita and will not be available. Jose Lezcano will take over. Jody's Pride's last start was a second-place finish in the Juvenile Fillies, which means, as is the case with Just F Y I, that she might not be fast enough to make it to the Kentucky Oaks winner's circle. 4) KOPION (f, Omaha Beach—Galloping Ami, by Victory Gallop) O-Spendthrift Farm; B-Tall Oaks Farm (Ky); T-Richard Mandella. Sales history: $270,000 yrl '22 KEESEP. Lifetime Record: GSW, 3-2-1-0, $116,600. Last start: 2nd Feb. 10 GIII Las Virgenes S. Kentucky Oaks Points: 20. Next Start: GII Santa Anita Oaks, SA, Apr. 6 With Bob Baffert-trainees effectively banned from the Kentucky Oaks, Kopion could enter the Oaks as the top threat from California. While she may not be as good as the Baffert-trained Kinza (Carpe Diem), who beat her in the GIII Las Virgenes S., her credentials are pretty solid. She ran an 89 in the Las Virgenes, which puts her in the thick of things when it comes to the leaders of this division. Hall of Fame trainer Richard Mandella has never won a Derby or an Oaks. Maybe this will be the year that changes. 5) LESLIE'S ROSE (f, Into Mischief–Wildwood Rose {Ire}, by Galileo {Ire}) 'TDN Rising Star' O-Whisper Hill Farm; B-John D. Gunther & Eurowest Bloodstock Services (Ky); T-Todd Pletcher. Sales history: $1,150,000 yrl '22 KEESEP. Lifetime Record: 'TDN Rising Star', 2-2-0-0, $89,950. Last start: WON Jan. 11 AOC at Gulfstream Park. Kentucky Oaks Points: 0. Next Start: GII Davona Dale S., GP, Mar. 2. The Davona Dale comes down to a classic case of speed figures-versus-class. Leslie' Rose is considerably faster than Just F Y I, but she has won only a maiden and an allowance race. Just F Y I, of course, is a two-time Grade I winner and an Eclipse champion. It's just that on the figures, she's not that fast. A $1,150,000 purchase at Keeneland September by Mandy Pope's Whisper Hill Farms, Leslie's Rose has the breeding, the speed and the right trainer in Todd Pletcher. A very nice prospect. 6) POWER SQUEEZE (f, Union Rags–Callmethesqueeze, by Awesome Again) O-Lea Farms, LLC; B-Forging Oaks Farm (KY); T-Jorge Delgado. Sales history: $50,000 yrl '22 KEESEP; $90,000 2yo '23 OBSAPR. Lifetime Record: MSW, 5-3-1-0, $188,650. Last start: WON Feb. 10 Suncoast S. Kentucky Oaks Points: 20. Next Start: GII Gulfstream Park Oaks, GP, Mar. 30. Trainer Jorge Delgado has taken his time with this filly, a $90,000 purchase at OBS April. It took her three starts to break her maiden and then he ran her in two minor stakes, the Cash Run S. and the Suncoast S. Life Talk (Gun Runner) was the 2-5 favorite in the Suncoast and she didn't have it, running last. Outside of her there wasn't much in the way of competition for Power Squeeze, so this might have been the case of her beating up on a weak field. We'll learn a lot more about her when she tackles tougher in the GII Gulfstream Park Oaks. 7) INTRICATE (f, Gun Runner–Complex Analysis, by Distorted Humor) O-Bradley Thoroughbreds, Laura Leigh Stable, Scot Estes & Cambron Equine, LLC; B-LBD Stable, LLC (Ky); T-Brendan Walsh. Sales history: $200,000 yrl '22 KEESEP; $280,000 2yo '23 OBSAPR. Lifetime Record: GSW, 4-2-1-0, $362,180. Last start: 2nd GII Rachel Alexandra S. Kentucky Oaks Points: 35. Next Start: GII Fair Grounds Oaks, FG, Mar. 23 Her star dimmed a bit when she couldn't handle Tarifa in the Rachel Alexandra, but there's no reason why she can't improve off of that effort and be a major player. Looked very good winning last year's GII Golden Rod S. at Churchill, winning by 5 1/4 lengths. “She's a very easy filly to train and does it all by herself. She's just been starting to come around and really put things together today. We've always thought she's a true two-turn filly,” Walsh said after the Golden Rod. Pretty Mischievous (Into Mischief) finished third in the Golden Rod only to go on and win the Oaks. Both fillies are trained by Walsh. Don't count this filly out. 8) WEST OMAHA (f, West Coast–Birthday Bash, by Medaglia d'Oro) O/B-Gary & Mary West Stables (Ky); T-Brad Cox. Lifetime Record: SW, 4-2-2-0, $203,000. Last start: 3rd in Feb. 24 GIII Honeybee S. Kentucky Oaks Points: 40. Next Start: TBD. After winning the Jan. 20 Silverbulletday S. presented by Fasig-Tipton at the Fair Grounds, West Omaha looked like she was among the top tier in the 3-year-old filly division. That may no longer be the case for the Brad Cox-trainee. Sent off as the 11-10 favorite in the GIII Honeybee S. at Oaklawn, she could do no better than third. She lost by four lengths. It was a definite regression from her earlier races and she will need to turn things around in her next start. 9) LEMON MUFFIN (f, Collected–Pelt, by Canadian Frontier) O-Aaron Sones; B-Mr & Mrs Theodore R Kuster & Collected Syndicate (KY); T-D Wayne Lukas. Sales history: $20,000 yrl '22 KEESEP; $140,000 2yo '23 OBSAPR. Lifetime Record: GSW, 6-1-4-0, $305,250. Last start: WON GIII Honeybee S. Kentucky Oaks Points: 50. Next Start: GIII Fantasy Stakes, OP, Mar. 30. Only Hall of Famer Wayne Lukas would take a five-time loser in the maiden ranks who had never gone beyond six furlongs and run her in a two-turn graded stakes, and win. That's exactly what Lukas did and he was rewarded with a huge win with Lemon Muffin in the Honeybee at odds of 28-1. “I think I'm the oldest guy to ever win the Honeybee,” said the 88-year-old trainer. “I felt good about her. She was dying to go two turns and I knew it. I kind of handicapped her. I kept her short a couple of times. I've got to give credit to the owner [Aaron Sones]. Aaron Sones called me and said, 'Would you have the guts to put her in the Honeybee?' And, I said: 'Yes. I think that's where we ought to go.' So, he pushed me in that direction. I followed up on it and I loved it.” Jockey Keith Asmussen collected his first graded stakes win in the Honeybee aboard Lemon Muffin. 10) RECHARGE (f, Gun Runner–Remit, by Tapit) O/B-Winchell Thoroughbreds (KY); T-Steve Asmussen. Lifetime Record: SW, 3-3-0-0, $189,498. Last start: WON Feb. 18 Sunland Park Oaks. Kentucky Oaks Points: 20. Next Start: GIII Fantasy S., OP, Mar. 30. A winner of the Sunland Park Oaks might not normally be considered a top threat for the Kentucky Oaks, but things might be different with this one. A Winchell Thoroughbreds homebred by Gun Runner, she in good hands in the Steve Asmussen barn and seems to be improving with each race, starting with her maiden win Dec. 14 at Remington Park. It's hard to say if she's good enough, but the answer to that question will no doubt come in her next start when she should meet much tougher competition. The post The Kentucky Oaks Top 10 for February 29 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The latest in Racing Post's Flying Start Files from those undertaking the prestigious course.View the full article

The digital world moves fast, and Pounce is an example of just how efficient the emerging online market can be. Pounce won Feb. 11. Nine days later she topped the Fasig-Tipton February Digital Sale when she sold to Resolute Racing for $370,000. View the full article

This day 1st March in horse racing news history From the extensive Horse Betting news archives we present the all the thoroughbred racing action in Australian and overseas racing news in history. Delve in and enjoy our walk back in horse racing time. Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago Newcastle best bets & quaddie tips | Friday, March 3, 2023 The Group 3 Newcastle Stakes highlights the eight-race program at Newcastle, and Nathan Keven has his best bets and quaddie … Read More Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago 2023 Australian Guineas betting preview & tips | March 4 The Group 1 Australian Guineas is the feature event at Flemington on Saturday, and HorseBetting’s James Herbert presents his preview … Read More Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago Pakenham best bets & quaddie tips | Friday, March 3 A competitive eight-race card will be held at Pakenham on Friday night. HorseBetting’s Ciaran Jackman presents his best bets and … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 12 months ago Broodmare paddock beckoning Coventina Bay The horse that did more for New Plymouth trainer Robbie Patterson’s profile than any other may have raced for the … Read More Australia horse racing news 12 months ago Steinem connections hoping for dry Australian Cup conditions Connections of Steinem will be hoping the dry weather in Victoria continues leading into the Group 1 Australian Cup over … Read More Australia horse racing news 12 months ago Aft Cabin heads 14-strong Randwick Guineas field A strong field of 14 three-year-old colts and geldings have accepted for this Saturday’s Group 1 Randwick Guineas (1600m) … Read More Australia horse racing news 12 months ago Jacquinot heads bumper Australian Guineas field The Group 1 Australian Guineas will be run and won at Flemington on Saturday afternoon, with a full field of … Read More Australia horse racing news 12 months ago NT jockeys return to National Apprentice Race Series For the first time in almost nine years, Northern Territory apprentice jockeys will be involved in the National Apprentice Race … Read More Australia horse racing news 12 months ago NT legend The Captain dies of colic The Darwin racing public farewelled sprinting champion The Captain at the start of the year when his retirement was confirmed, … Read More Australia horse racing news 12 months ago Little Brose proves a bargain buy with Blue Diamond Stakes win Little Brose’s $200,000 purchase at last year’s Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale now seems a shrewd bargain buy after … Read More Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago Today’s horse racing tips & best bets | March 1, 2023 Horse Racing on Wednesday, March 1 will feature six meetings in Australia. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found … Read More Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago Sunshine Coast racing tips & quaddie | Wednesday, March 2 Originally scheduled for Doomben, Queensland’s Wednesday metropolitan meeting has been transferred to the Sunshine Coast, with nine races set to … Read More Australia horse racing news 2 years ago Converge locked in for Randwick Guineas despite Sydney forecast Group 1 winner Converge is “in good shape” ahead of Saturday’s Randwick Guineas (1600m), according to co-trainer Adrian Bott. The … Read More Australia horse racing news 2 years ago The Follow Files: All about the girls at Caulfield & Randwick Five Group 1 races were run and won across the Caulfield and Randwick meetings on Saturday, and they seriously delivered … Read More Australia horse racing news 2 years ago Former owner Tregea worried Incentivise ‘may not race again’ The former trainer and owner of Incentivise, Steve Tregea, has revealed that the horse is only a “50-50” chance of … Read More Australia horse racing news 2 years ago Jaden Lloyd leads Queensland charge in NARS Queensland will have its best chance yet at taking out the National Apprentice Race Series (NARS) as it returns in … Read More Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago Warwick Farm racing tips & value bets | Wednesday, March 2 HorseBetting’s New South Wales racing analyst brings you his best bets and quaddie numbers for Wednesday’s metropolitan meeting at Warwick … Read More Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago Sandown Hillside betting tips & odds | Wednesday, March 2 HorseBetting’s James Herbert takes a look at the best bets and top quaddie picks on offer for this Wednesday’s meeting … Read More Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago Today’s horse racing tips & best bets | March 1, 2022 Four horse racing meetings are scheduled around Australia today. See the top tips, best odds and quaddie selections here at … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 2 years ago A Love Letter to Hastings Hastings trainers Guy Lowry and Grant Cullen are hoping to snare top honours in the Group 2 Little Avondale Lowland … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 2 years ago White Noise heads stable’s Derby attack Murray Baker and Andrew Forsman will be represented by a trio of Group 1 Vodafone New Zealand Derby (2400m) contenders … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 3 years ago Derby Day call to be made Friday Racing Administrators remain hopeful that Ellerslie will be the venue for this year’s Group 1 Vodafone New Zealand Derby (2400m), … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 3 years ago In-form Grylls making every post a winner There aren’t many better ways for a jockey to celebrate buying a new home than riding a treble the next … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 3 years ago Late Derby contender to be On Display The Danny Walker-trained On Display is likely to be a late nomination for Sunday’s Group 1 Vodafone New Zealand Derby … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 3 years ago Richardson still buzzing over home track success After a night of celebrations at his favourite local restaurant, Matamata trainer Graham Richardson made an understandably slow start to … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 3 years ago Stakes assignment for promising three-year-old A comprehensive three-length victory at Matamata on Saturday has set promising three-year-old Tar And Cement on a path to the … Read More Australia horse racing news 3 years ago Weather to decide number of O’Brien Australian Cup starters Trainer Danny O’Brien will pay a late-entry fee to run Paradee in the Australian Cup (2000m) at Flemington while the … Read More Horse Racing Tips 3 years ago Kembla Grange horse racing tips & best odds | Tuesday 2/3/2021 HorseBetting.com.au brings you the latest odds, best value bets and top quaddie selections for the Kembla Grange meeting on Tuesday, … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 3 years ago All roads lead to Te Aroha for Coventina Bay Taranaki trainer Robbie Patterson took time out on Sunday morning for a spot of fishing with a group of mates, … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 3 years ago Richardson and Norvall double up in Matamata features Local filly Bonny Lass carried the hopes of her breeder Sandy Moore and a mixture of racing newbies and experienced … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 3 years ago Avantage secures eighth Group One victory Avantage continued her march into the realms of super stardom when she made it career Group One number eight with … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news 3 years ago Silver Express emerges as Hong Kong Derby hope Joao Moreira insists Silver Express warrants a tilt at the BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) next month after the grey … Read More Horse Racing Tips 3 years ago Bendigo racing tips, top odds & value bets | Tuesday 2/3/2021 HorseBetting.com.au brings you the latest odds, best value bets and top quaddie numbers for the race meeting at Bendigo on … Read More Horse Racing News 3 years ago Punt Drunk: Drought over as Astro Castro salutes at Colac Astro Castro’s first win in over two years takes top billing as Punt Drunk returns for another week of horse … Read More Horse Racing Tips 3 years ago Merimbula Cup Day Top Betting Tips & Odds | Monday, 01/03/21 Horsebetting’s top tipping experts bring you the betting preview for Merimbula Cup Day at the Sapphire Coast on Monday, March … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Boss free for Slipper day with ban altered Stewards have agreed to change the dates of Glen Boss’ careless riding suspension which means he can ride on Golden … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Healing Hands wins Mudgee Championship heat Gayna Williams has saddled Healing Hands to win the Country Championship qualifier at Mudgee from Electrified … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Regal Power on target for Australian Cup West Australian Group One winner Regal Power is set for the Australian Cup at Flemington after running home well for … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Another weight-for-age test for Standout Three-year-old Standout is primed to take on older horses again in the Canterbury Stakes at Randwick … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Heathcote dismissing Rothfire pressure Robert Heathcote is using his experience with champion Buffering to handle public pressure about whether two-year-old Rothfire will tackle the … Read More Australia horse racing news, New Zealand horse racing news 4 years ago Azuro New Zealand bound for Auckland Cup The Ciaron Maher and David Eustace-trained Azuro is New Zealand-bound chasing a fourth 3200m win in the past 12 months … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Trainer disqualified on harassment charges Queensland trainer Tim Hurley has been disqualified for six months on two charges of harassing licensed persons … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Mr Quickie to continue Mile prep in trial Mr Quickie will be taken to Cranbourne for a 990m barrier trial as he continues to prepare for the $5 … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 4 years ago Elite victories provide boost for local fans and racing industry After a weekend that featured successive Group 1 victories in Sydney along with a stakes win on the biggest day … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 4 years ago Decision pending on Harlech’s future The immediate racing future of promising colt Harlech will be decided by his connections within the next 24 hours. The … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 4 years ago No disappointment among beaten Derby favourites Despite being upstaged by a superb staying performance by Sherwood Forest in Saturday’s Group 1 Vodafone New Zealand Derby (2400m), … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Delays again hit Gold Coast upgrade plans Delays in an upgrade to the Gold Coast track and the installation of lights will hinder plans for the club … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Cough costs Tarrant $1000 fine Jockey Luke Tarrant has been fined $1000 for not reporting beaten favourite Exondabeach had coughed on the way to the … Read More International horse racing news 4 years ago Maximum effort secures Saudi Cup glory Maximum Security has toughed it out in Riyadh to win an epic first running of the Saudi Cup, the world’s … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Nobu to run for Chris Waller in NZ Derby Nobu will bid to give champion trainer Chris Waller a first Group One win in his home country in the … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Strong Guineas hand for Lindsay Park David Hayes expects luck in running to play a part but believes all three stable runners can perform strongly in … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Fiesta surrounds herself with greatness Winx’s closest neighbour Fiesta will try to win her first Group One race in the Surround shortly after the champion … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Extra Brut to show his class in G1 Guineas Jockey Michael Walker expects a middle barrier will allow Extra Brut to show his class in the Australian Guineas at … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Manuel chasing All-Star Mile wildcard Trainer Tony McEvoy will have two chances in the Group Two Blamey Stakes, with Orr Stakes winner Manuel to be … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Seabrook starts Sydney prep in G1 Surround Trainer Mick Price is chasing a Group One fillies and mares campaign with Seabrook who is set for a first-up … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago No Australian Guineas for Age Of Chivalry While a host of runners from the C S Hayes Stakes will clash in the Australian Guineas, Age Of Chivalry … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Mystic Journey ready for Guineas challenge Star Tasmanian filly Mystic Journey has arrived in Melbourne ready for her biggest assignment yet in the Group One Australian … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Newnham sets sights on Slipper Oasis Connections of lightly raced juvenile Super Oasis will rely on a proven template in their quest to get the filly … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Rabbit to turn hunter at Doomben Strong last-start winner Rabbit Hunter gets his chance in better company at Doomben … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Viddora given the go-ahead for Dubai trip Viddora is set to travel to Dubai for the World Cup meeting after recently receiving the last of her travel … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Verry Elleegant out of Australian Guineas Verry Elleegant has been scratched from the Australian Guineas after she was found to have an elevated temperature on race … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Frank Conlan dies after horse accident Racehorse trainer Frank Conlan has died after a fall from a horse on a road in country Victoria … Read More Horse Racing News 5 years ago Racing Victoria set to announce three remaining All-Star Mile wildcards RACING Victoria is set to announce the remaining three wildcard runners for the $5 million All-Star Mile on Monday. Racing … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 5 years ago Derby day launching pad to international targets for Rogerson pair As always, Hamilton trainer Graeme Rogerson isn’t shying away from a challenge. Rogerson and his co-trainers Debbie and Bailey Rogerson … Read More Ireland horse racing news 5 years ago Double delight for Donagh Meyler at Clonmel Donagh Meyler took the riding honours at Clonmel when partnering a double aboard Reine Fee and Ask Heather at odds … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 5 years ago Waller pleased with Sydney Cup-bound Patrick Erin Sydney trainer Chris Waller is expecting a solid showing from his New Zealand-bred stayer Patrick Erin in the Group 1 … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Weight no worry for Emphasis at Doomben Trainer Richie Stephenson is confident Emphasis can handle a big hike in weight in the Tattersall’s Members Cup at Doomben … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 5 years ago Price heading into Saturday with plenty of Grunt Dual Group One winner Grunt will tackle the Group 3 The TAB Shaftsbury Avenue Handicap (1400m) at Flemington on Saturday … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Pike pleased with Graff in jump-out William Pike and Barend Vorster have ridden Graff and Sunlight respectively in a jump-out at Flemington with the sprinters headed … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago No Sydney Cup for Ispolini after Dubai win The Charlie Appleby-trained Meydan Group Three winner Ispolini will stay in Dubai for the Gold Cup instead of coming to … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Facts on the Australian Guineas Facts and figures on the Group One Australian Guineas at Flemington … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Chipping Norton Stakes facts and figures Some facts about the Group One Chipping Norton Stakes at Randwick where Winx will aim for her third successive win … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Care To Think defies adversity for Dunn Care To Think’s will to win has helped the gelding emerge as a potential Doncaster Mile candidate for Murwillumbah trainer … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Nelligans face further restrictions in Vic Racing Victoria stewards plan to take further action against two stable employees charged as part of the Aquanita investigation … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Adelaide Cup trio set for Flemington clash Double Bluff, Fanatic and Ormito hold Adelaide Cup nominations and are set to meet in the Roy Higgins Quality at … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Rimraam tackles new Sydney Group One race Lindsay Park has its eyes on the Surround Stakes at Randwick, a new Group One race for three-year-old fillies … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Snowden duo on trial for Golden Slipper Spin and Satin Slipper can confirm their inclusion in the $3.5 million Golden Slipper when they start in lead-up races … Read More Horse Racing Tips 6 years ago Canterbury tips & form for Friday night, March 2 CANTERBURY returns this Friday as the Sydney track puts in a strong eight race card. Looking for tips for the … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Tshahitsi suited back to handicap company Tshahitsi’s trainer says he will appreciate the handicap conditions at Flemington after finding Group One weight-for-age company a bridge too … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago All in order for champion’s return The Winx camp is relaxed as the champion prepares for her return to racing and an attempts at a third … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Malibu Style back for Victorian campaign Perth sprinter Malibu Style has settled back into Melbourne ahead of an autumn campaign which begins in the Listed Bob … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 6 years ago Scott Base out of Derby The connections of Scott Base will now set their sights on Australia after a setback has forced the talented three-year-old’s … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Central figure to miss Aquanita inquiry Most of those charged in the Aquanita case have pleaded not guilty ahead of an April hearing while trainer Robert … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 6 years ago Genuine mare set for Cuddle Stakes Strolling Vagabond begins her quest for black type at Awapuni on Friday. The Darci Brahma mare will make her first … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 6 years ago Big weekend ahead for OTI Racing Syndicator OTI Racing could be in for a big weekend on both sides of the Tasman with their New Zealand-bred … Read More Horse Racing Tips 6 years ago Moonee Valley full form & tips for Friday night, March 2 MOONEE Valley returns this Friday and we’re looking forward to what the under-lights meet will bring. We’ve gone through all … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Brazen Moss gets things to suit Tough gelding Brazen Moss has a few things in his favour as he attempts to win his first stakes race … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Vinland to Sydney in search of soft ground Trainer Tony McEvoy intends to back Vinland up in the Randwick Guineas seven days after the colt contests the weight-for-age … Read More Horse Racing Tips 6 years ago Rockhampton tips & form for Friday, March 2 ROCKHAMPTON returns this Friday for a rock-solid seven race card. The Queensland venue always puts on an entertaining meet, so … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Spirit Of Cherokee passes barrier test Promising juvenile Spirit Of Cherokee has passed a barrier test ordered by stewards and is ready to resume racing at … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Aslaan To Defend Al Ain Mile Crown On Friday Al Ain Racecourse stages a seven race card on Friday, highlighted by the Al Ain Mile, a Prestige contest for … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago RADB says leaks don’t affect Aquanita case Most of the eight people charged in the Aquanita racing case have pleaded not guilty, while trainer Robert Smerdon has … Read More United Arab Emirates horse racing news 6 years ago Forever Unbridled out to Make History No filly or mare has ever won the Group 1 US$10 million Dubai World Cup sponsored by Emirates Airline, but … Read More United Arab Emirates horse racing news 6 years ago Rayya Rises To Occasion Rayya Rises To Occasion And Rare Rhythm Bests Vazirabad On Night Of Outstanding #dwccarnival Performances – – – – Thursday’s … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago John Allen has confidence in Cliff’s Edge Jockey John Allen believes favourite Cliff’s Edge has the right attributes to offset his wide barrier in the Group One … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Scare for Outback Barbie in trial win Outback Barbie has trialled impressively in the lead-up to a Sydney campaign and survived a scare after dislodging her jockey … Read More Market Movers 6 years ago Newcastle market movers for Thursday, March 1 NEWCASTLE returns this Thursday and the punters have rallied around the meet. Horse Betting has your tips sorted for the … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Not guilty pleas in Aquanita case Group One-winning trainer Robert Smerdon has not entered a plea in the bi-carb case while most of the others charged … Read More Market Movers 6 years ago Beaudesert market movers for Thursday, March 1 QUEENSLAND is hosting racing this Thursday as Beaudesert puts on seven events this afternoon. Horse Betting has tips in the … Read More Market Movers 6 years ago Terang market movers for Thursday, March 1 TERANG racing is the first of two Victorian meetings this Thursday and the punters have made their moves in the … Read More United Arab Emirates horse racing news 6 years ago Vazirabad returns and filly rivalry continues at Meydan Thursday’s ninth and penultimate meeting of the 2018 Dubai World Cup Carnival is all about quality with no less than … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Jean Van Overmeire heads north In-form Sydney apprentice Jean Van Overmeire will showcase his talents in Queensland with eight rides at Doomben … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news, Horse Racing News 6 years ago European Commission reaffirms high-health status of racehorses The European Commission (EC) has adopted a decision of the EC Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed to … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news, Horse Racing News 6 years ago Shum & Purton pair for Sha Tin racing double TRAINER Danny Shum and jockey Zac Purton combined for an important double at Sha Tin on Wednesday night (28 February) … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news, Horse Racing News 6 years ago Reigning champion Size registers significant milestone TRAINER John Size became just the third trainer ever to prepare 1,100 Hong Kong winners when Five Stars Agent won … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago All in order for Winx return Everything is in order for Winx to make a triumphant return to racing and claim a third successive win in … Read More Australia horse racing news, Hong Kong horse racing news 6 years ago Fullazaboot bound for Hong Kong Magic Millions Classic runner-up Fullazaboot has been sold to Hong Kong interests and will miss the autumn carnival … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Hey Doc remains favourite for Aust Guineas Jockey Luke Currie is happy with an inside draw for Australian Guineas favourite Hey Doc in a capacity field of … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Gollan set for another training record Tony Gollan’s career equalling best four winners at Doomben has put him in line to break his own Brisbane training … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Provincial Championship qualifier at risk Rain threatens the running of the second Provincial Championships qualifying race at Hawkesbury on Thursday while Randwick Guineas Day is … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Jukebox to be vetted before next run Jukebox will need to pass a veterinary inspection when he arrives in Sydney from Melbourne to race either at Randwick … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Good Oh continues success for breeder Good Oh has delivered after being well backed to win her debut at Sandown to continue a good week for … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Decision pending on Supido’s Sydney run Trainer Mick Kent is keen to take Supido to Sydney for the Challenge Stakes ahead of the Newmarket Handicap at … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago WA apprentice wins on Bastille at Sandown A smart ride on lightly raced Bastille has given WA apprentice Clint Johnston-Porter a winner in Melbourne … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Hooked ready to resume for new stable Multiple Group winner Hooked will step out for his first start for the Robert Smerdon stable in a Group Three … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Wet Randwick track no Malaise for O’Shea John O’Shea at ease as Group One debut looms for Malaise in weather-affected $1 million Randwick Guineas … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Lindsay Gough on right track for winter The talented Right Or Wrong has won a trial in the lead-up to his return to racing at Eagle Farm … Read More Australia horse racing news, Horse Racing News 7 years ago Tasmanian raider Jerilderie Letter seeking Flemington success JERILDERIE Letter might not have won in over a year, but the former Tasmania Derby winner has plenty more to … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Lindsay Park out to keep G1 streak going After winning the Blue Diamond Stakes and Oakleigh Plate at Caulfield, Lindsay Park will have four runners in the Australian … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Winx and Catchy inspires twitter love in big week of racing WHAT a week of racing. Not only did Winx extend her winning streak to 15 straight, but superstar two-year-old Catchy … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Fall mars Ignite The Light’s win A fall has marred the win of Ignite The Light who lived up to his trainer Tony Gollan’s opinion of … Read More Horse Racing Tips 7 years ago Cranbourne night racing form and free tips, Friday March 3 CRANBOURNE hosts a premier night of racing this Friday where the $150,000 Cranbourne Cup and $80,000 Apache Cat Classic are … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Choice of three venues for Houtzen Trainer Toby Edmonds has to decide where Golden Slipper second favourite Houtzen has her next run with the filly to … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Capacity field for G1 Australian Guineas A capacity field of 16 plus three emergencies has been declared for the Group One Australian Guineas … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Eight runners for G1 Canterbury Stakes Champion sprinter Chautauqua has returned to Sydney for a shot at the Group One Canterbury Stakes at Randwick … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Field of 14 to contest G1 Randwick Guineas Victoria Derby winner Prized Icon heads the field for the Randwick Guineas in which a field of 14 has accepted … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago El Rada ready to take on Melbourne for Archie Alexander ACRHIE Alexander is confident the lessons learned by the lightly-raced El Rada at Ballarat will hold the mare in good stead as … Read More Australia horse racing news, Horse Racing News 7 years ago Don’t sleep on Khan for Golden Slipper selections says Snowden TRAINER Peter Snowden has confirmed that Khan will head to the 2017 Golden Slipper, but he believes punters will see … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Warwick Farm called off because of weather Continuing rain in Sydney has forced stewards to call off the Warwick Farm midweek meeting because of surface water on … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Werther to miss rich Dubai race Hong Kong’s Horse of the Year, Werther, will not race at the Dubai World Cup meeting with his owner opting … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Waller calls time on Boban and Catkins after brilliant careers Two of Chris Waller’s stable stars have been retired with Catkins heading to the broodmare barn and Boban to a … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Zelady’s Night Out primed for Slipper test IT will be a make-or-break Golden Slipper mission for Zelady’s Night Out when one of Queensland’s best two-year-olds makes her … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Ultimate Shock back in winning surrounds ANTHONY Cummings will turn to a new piece of gear as well as the venue that provided a first-up win … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Chautauqua to deal with top weight in Newmarket Handicap STAR sprinter Chautauqua heads the weights for the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap with 58kg. Chautauqua finished second to Brazen Beau … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Jessy Belle dodges Azkadellia, hoping for Flemington win LUKE Oliver is hoping the decision to dodge Azkadellia in the Mannerism Stakes will be rewarded with a stakes win for … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Press Statement’s short Guineas odds aren’t deterring punters PRESS Statement will attempt to become the shortest-priced Randwick Guineas favourite to win since Weekend Hussler, whose three-year-old season earned … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Youngsters out to secure Slipper start in Todman & Reisling ALTHOUGH it looks as if there will be a small field for the Todman Stakes, it is a race that … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Happy Clapper tested in weight-for-age ahead of Doncaster Mile AS the winner of the Villiers Stakes, Happy Clapper is guaranteed a start in the Doncaster Mile. To get him … Read More Horse Racing Tips 8 years ago Free quaddie tips for Wednesday racing at Sandown TAKING a quaddie is one of the most popular betting types on Australian horse racing and the big payouts have … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Tulsa one of many dual nominees for Australian & Randwick Guineas TRAINER Mike Moroney has insured against Tulsa missing an Australian Guineas start by entering him in the Randwick version on … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Tommy Berry and Designs On Rome secure Group 1 Hong Kong Gold Cup SYDNEY jockey Tommy Berry has made a triumphant return to Hong Kong, steering Designs On Rome to a group 1 … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Waller announces stable stars Catkins and Boban both retired TWO of Chris Waller’s stable stars have been retired with Catkins heading to the broodmare barn and Boban to a … Read More View the full article

By now we're long familiar with the key transition that sealed the hegemony of Into Mischief. The moment of “Authentication” came in 2020, with a Horse of the Year from the first book of mares the Spendthrift phenomenon had covered even at $45,000; while the next crop, conceived at $75,000, produced a second consecutive GI Kentucky Derby winner in Mandaloun. While the latter was indebted to the disqualification of the winner, the fact remains that he managed to outstay the other 17 starters. In the process, he confirmed that Into Mischief, with the upgrading of his mares, could stretch his trademark speed to meet the demands of Classic racing. From the same crop, Life Is Good admittedly appeared to approach the limit of his ability to do so through a 10th furlong; while Into Mischief's Classic winner last year, Pretty Mischievous, was subsequently dropped in distance. Into Mischief will clearly always remain primarily a speed brand, but it's evident that the mares he typically entertains nowadays–this is his third season at $250,000–are eligible to get him stock competent for the most prestigious races around two turns. And it's hard to believe that many of them can give him more assistance, in this regard, than the dam of Timberlake. While the GII Rebel S. winner ultimately traces to one of the iconic founts of European speed, with Mumtaz Mahal (GB) herself lurking as 10th dam, this particular branch of her dynasty has lately been curated with a complementary emphasis on the constitution and stamina required for Epsom. This has largely been the work of Richard Henry, a friend to so many in the business on either side of the water, who clearly deserves no less esteem in his sideline as a breeder than in his day job with Primus Advertising in Ireland. It all started with the purchase of Jude (GB), a daughter of the eminent broodmare sire Darshaan (GB), for 92,000gns at Tattersalls in 1997 after showing little in a light track career for Prince Fahd Salman. She had been bred (and sold as a yearling) by Kirsten Rausing and Sonia Rogers from Alruccaba (Ire) (Crystal Palace {Fr}), the Lanwades foundation mare, who had by then already produced a couple of top-class performers and has since united the pedigrees of numerous others, not least the G1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe winner Alpinista (GB) (Frankel {GB}). Henry's professional association with Coolmore facilitated serial trysts for Jude with the farm's champion sire Sadler's Wells. The first of these resulted in the Group 1-winning juvenile Quarter Moon (Ire), who went on to finish runner-up in three consecutive Classics; and the next produced Yesterday (Ire), who won the G1 Irish 1,000 Guineas and then emulated her sister as runner-up in the G1 Oaks at Epsom. Quarter Moon subsequently achieved corresponding stature as a producer, her Group 1-winning daughter Diamondsandrubies (Ire) (Fastnet Rock {Aus}) being represented last year by a smart juvenile in Pearls And Rubies (Ire) (No Nay Never), beaten in a photo at Royal Ascot and again runner-up in the G1 Cheveley Park S. Jude's sixth foal by Sadler's Wells, All My Loving, remarkably became the third sister to be placed in the Oaks at Epsom, besides finishing second in the G2 Ribblesdale S., also over a mile and a half, at Royal Ascot. Her son Thomas Chippendale (Ire) (Dansili {GB}) was sold as a yearling before winning at the royal meeting two years running, in the G2 King Edward VII S. (“the Ascot Derby”) and G2 Hardwicke S. Both those races were also over 12 furlongs, confirming the abundance of Classic stamina in this family. In 2011, All My Loving made a visit to Coolmore's Kentucky wing, at Ashford, where she was covered by Lookin At Lucky. Having just started out, that stallion had yet to suffer the deplorable neglect of the commercial market, which he ultimately proved unable to convince despite winners of the GI Breeders' Cup Classic and GI Kentucky Derby. Anyhow, his daughter out of All My Loving was scratched from Book 1 at Tattersalls as a yearling, and instead surfaced in the silks of trainer Richard Fahey, whose services for the Henrys have lately included a Group 3 success for another of Jude's granddaughters, Midnight Mile (Ire) (No Nay Never). Under the name of Pin Up (Ire), the daughter of All My Loving and Lookin At Lucky confirmed stamina to be her forte by rounding off her career over 14 furlongs, rallying to win a handicap before gaining black-type in a small field at Ascot. Though she did not go through the ring, she evidently satisfied a transatlantic order for a well-bred turf stayer. Her first foal, a War Front colt, was listed as co-bred by St. Elias Stables and Joseph Allen. Whatever deal they had struck, those partners can only have been delighted after their colt brought $1.2 million from Shadwell at the Keeneland September Sale. (While he did manage to win in Britain, he needed a mile and a half despite the input of War Front, and is these days plying his trade as a gelding in U.A.E. handicaps.) Pin Up has since been given some curiously diverse covers (in each case St. Elias registered as sole breeder), visiting Noble Mission (GB) and Dialed In with unexciting results before suddenly getting a $175,000 audience with Into Mischief in 2020. The resulting colt was bought from the Gainesway consignment as a Keeneland September yearling by Maverick Racing and Siena Farm for $350,000 and last year proceeded to become one of the leading juveniles on the East Coast. For this, of course, is Timberlake. And it should be clear by now that Pin Up's staying power, come the first Saturday in May, should amply complement the speed he has inherited from Into Mischief. He still looked a work in progress on Saturday, notably in his response to the whip, which was a little surprising in one whose juvenile campaign (a shattering 428 seconds) can nowadays be described as “long” by his trainer. But he duly outclassed a field of inferiors to resume the curve he was on before being blown away, like everyone else, by Fierceness (City Of Light) at the Breeders' Cup. With apologies to any exhausted by past pontifications on this theme, what I love about this pedigree is the way it attests to the mutual services available–but long neglected–between the respective gene pools either side of the Atlantic. Sadler's Wells and Darshaan have always been turf brands, of course. But while Lookin At Lucky did little for my conviction that “dirt” sires (not least the one who sired Sadler's Wells) can help European horses carry speed on grass, his input is evidently doing no harm now in reconciling a Classic turf family to the American dash of Into Mischief. Roses Bloom in the Desert In the very same year that Richard Henry purchased Jude, Texas oilman Joe Peacock, Sr. bought a handful of mares from the estate of Joe Straus, Jr., who had been a driving force of the sport in San Antonio. Having started out with Quarter Horses in New Mexico, Peacock had decided to try his luck with Thoroughbreds and sent one of his acquisitions–Snippet (Alysheba), who had only cost $9,500, though out of a graded stakes winner by Damascus and herself a four-time winner–to Kentucky to be covered by Peaks and Valleys. The resulting filly achieved little on the track, and was unfortunately confined to just two named foals in his second career–but one of those was Rose's Desert (Desert God), who won 10 of her 15 starts (seven in state-bred stakes) and was second in the other five, all spread between Sunland and Zia Park. Her sire owed his stud career (five times champion in New Mexico) entirely to his aristocratic blood, as an unraced Fappiano half-brother to elite runner/producer Better Than Honour (Deputy Minister). Peacock decided that Rose's Desert was such a good breeding prospect that he consolidated his entire breeding program, which had at one point extended to 20 head, to prioritize the quality of her covers. Her first foal, by Ghostzapper, promptly put Peacock and his family on the road to Churchill by winning the GIII Sunland Derby, only to be sidelined by a shin injury. He returned to win several more stakes, ending up with earnings approaching $800,000. Yet it has now turned out that he was only an overture. Senor Buscador surges to lead in Saudi Cup | Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia Because a few weeks after his family grieved the loss of Peacock, aged 88 in 2020, a colt by Mineshaft out of Rose's Desert made a winning debut at Remington Park. His trainer Todd Fincher then urged Peacock's heirs to fast-track him to the Springboard Mile on the same track, where his dazzling surge from off the pace once again seemed to bring the Twin Spires into focus. But there was again a derailment, for over a year after running fifth in what proved to be a very hot GII Risen Star S. (behind Mandaloun, Proxy, Midnight Bourbon and O Besos). Instead it has only been with maturity, over the past 18 months, that Senor Buscador has fulfilled his early potential–reaching an incredible climax last weekend in the world's richest horse race. Among the Peacock family's victory toasts will have been the team at Shawhan Place, the Kentucky nursery that has served their program for many years, including in foaling and raising Senor Buscador. In a remarkable double on the day for Shawhan, by the way, shock GIII Honeybee S. winner Lemon Muffin (Collected) is another farm graduate. Senor Buscador was named as a Spanish approximation of Mr. Prospector, who recurs, respectively, as damsire of Mineshaft and grandsire of Desert God. That's hardly an uncommon blend, of course, and those scratching their heads over the New Mexico antecedents of this horse need only review the three other mares who join Snippet in his third generation: from the top, these are Weekend Surprise (Secretariat), Up The Flagpole (Hoist The Flag) and Blush With Pride (Blushing Groom {Fr}). As I'm always saying, feel free to carry on matching your sire-lines, but I feel happier with sheer depth of quality, knowing that it really doesn't matter then which thread of a pedigree comes through. That's part of the logic of using stallions as well-bred as Mineshaft, now embarked on his 20th year at stud and great value to prove a mare, at $10,000, for those sensible enough to resist the (largely self-fulfilling) prejudice against older sires. Senor Buscador is his eighth elite winner. Remember that even the mating that brings Snippet alongside those three blue hens was itself with a very well-bred stallion. Peaks And Valleys finished up with a modest overall record at stud, but he was a conduit for excellent blood. From his multiple stakes-winning half-sister, Pin Oak bred millionaires Alternation (Distorted Humor) and Higher Power (Medaglia d'Oro). And actually another of their siblings is the granddam of Mucho Gusto (Mucho Macho Man), winner of the GI Pegasus World Cup in 2020. A month or so ago, second place in the latest running must have felt like as much of a contribution as Senor Buscador might have been expected to make to dynastic earnings. As it is, he has completed an amazing journey from the deserts of New Mexico to the sands of Arabia. Miller Set to do His Pedigree Justice Hot on the heels of Sierra Leone (Gun Runner), a second grandson of Darling My Darling (Deputy Minister) duly kept her in the sophomore spotlight for the second weekend running when Forever Young (Jpn) (Real Steel {Jpn}) won the G3 Saudi Derby. We won't go back over their shared family tree here, having done so last week in considering the GII Risen Star S. winner, but will instead record how another big pedigree is set to repay pretty big bucks. Judge Miller (Curlin) has admittedly required patience of Muir Hut Stables, who gave $550,000 for him at the 2021 Keeneland September Sale–a price that reflected full-sister Clairiere's emergence as one of the best fillies of her crop, albeit at that point she was no more than a Grade II winner. But while she continued to work diligently for his page, winning the first of three elite prizes in the Cotillon S. just days later, her kid brother did not surface until last November when second in a sprint maiden at Del Mar. But he now looks ready to make up for lost time, having won a similar race at Santa Anita on Boxing Day and then produced an extraordinary performance round a second turn in an allowance there last weekend. His 11-length allowance score has been gilded by the joint-highest Beyer of the year to date. Let's hope that he can now match the competitive durability of his sister, because he certainly has plenty of that loaded into what is plainly a stallon's page. Their very fast dam Cavorting, yet another feather in Bernardini's cap as a broodmare sire, was up and running to win the GII Adirondack S., but still going strong two years later when carving her name on the same GI Ogden Phipps S. trophy that would subsequently be won twice by her daughter. Clairiere, of course, was retained by breeders Stonestreet, who had made an inspired purchase of Cavorting as a $360,000 weanling at the Keeneland November Sale in 2012. They also doubled down with the mare's second daughter, La Crete (Medaglia d'Oro), who won the Silverbulletday S. on her second start before suffering a condylar fracture on her graded stakes debut. Thankfully salvaged by surgery, she gave the farm a perfect start to the current foaling season by safely delivering a colt by the inevitable Curlin. Clairiere | Sarah Andrew Despite his sketchy profile to date, there's an auspicious robustness to Judge Miller's family. Cavorting's own mother Promenade Colony (Carson City) was campaigned at a high level for three years (8-for-21 including the GII Molly Pitcher H. and a couple of Grade I placings); and the next dam, who was by that wholesome influence Pleasant Colony, was a half-sister to Grade I winners Another Review (by Buckaroo, 8-for-27 across 24 months) and No Review (by Nodouble, 9-for-27 across 26) and full-sister to dual Grade II winner Dance Colony (actually another Adirondack winner, and 6-for-28). The world being what it is today, you know that Judge Miller has already done enough to get 200 mares next spring even if he is never seen again. But with all this old school resilience behind him, it's worth accepting that this horse was simply too “huge” to make a 2-year-old, according to Mark Glatt, and then was troubled by a foot abscess last summer. If he can now build on his breakout, he could certainly become a stud prospect to satisfy the more exacting standards of the past, as well. The post Breeding Digest: Timberlake Bred to Stretch Mischief Speed appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

In fine fettle following a victory at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh is Mick Appleby trainee Annaf (Ire) (Muhaarar {GB}), who is likely to take his chance at the G1 Al Quoz Sprint on the Dubai World Cup night. Successful in the G2 1351 Turf Sprint, the Fosnic Racing silksbearer and G1 King's Stand S. third won a Doncaster handicap in September, prior to the G3 Bengough S. a month later. Second in the Listed Kachy S. at Lingfield, the 5-year-old entire's conqueror that day, Diligent Harry (GB) (Due Diligence), added another listed affair the same day as the 1351 Turf Sprint. Appleby said, “He's all good, he's come out of the race fine. He did it really well, we were quite surprised at the price of him to be honest. “He'll more than likely go out to Dubai on World Cup night, he was invited to Japan, but we've decided not to go there as the race might come too soon for him and there's a lot of travelling as well. “He'll come home and then probably about a week before the race, he'll fly out to Dubai. Then I imagine then it'll be Royal Ascot, Glorious Goodwood, all the big meetings.” The post Annaf To Skip Japan And Instead Likely For The Al Quoz Sprint appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Tom Pedulla of America's Best Racing is interviewing prominent owners, trainers, and jockeys as they travel the Road to the 150th Kentucky Derby (G1) May 4 at Churchill Downs.View the full article

Richard Phillips has been announced as the keynote speaker for the 2024 Thoroughbred Breeders' Association (TBA) Bloodstock Conference, which is set to take place at Tattersalls in Newmarket on Tuesday, June 25. Phillips, trainer and founder of National Racehorse Week, said, “I am delighted to be invited to speak at this year's Bloodstock Conference. I have a lifelong passion for the bloodstock world and look forward to sharing opinions, ideas and views with those attending.” Staged for the first time in 2023, the event will feature talks and presentations with leading industry experts on a range of topics, plus an interactive panel debate during the afternoon session. The conference will once again be hosted by leading racing broadcaster and journalist Lydia Hislop, who added, “This is such an important aspect of the industry and I enjoyed listening to some fascinating opinions and views from leading experts on the current and future health of the bloodstock industry at last year's event. “These conferences are designed to encourage people to learn and share ideas to help shape its future. I am looking forward to hosting it again, with some big topics on the agenda.” Tickets for the conference are free for TBA members and TBA Access subscribers with a priority booking window now live for members until 8 March. Non-members tickets will be available from March 8 for £60, which will also include a year's membership to Access. Further information on the event's speakers and schedule will be released in due course. The post Richard Phillips Named as Keynote Speaker at 2024 TBA Bloodstock Conference appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Officials from Turfway Park Racing & Gaming announced the track will again be open for year-round training, with summer stall applications due March 15.View the full article

The 2023-24 Thoroughbred season at Delta Downs Racetrack wrapped up Feb. 24. Vicente Del Cid finished atop the rider standings; Karl Broberg retained his grip on the leading trainer crown; and End Zone Athletics won another leading owner title.View the full article

The first pool to wager on Preakness Stakes 149, the middle jewel of the Triple Crown, begins Feb. 29 and will close just hours after three major prep races are contested March 2 in Florida, California, and New York. View the full article

For America's Best Racing, Tom Pedulla is interviewing prominent owners, trainers, and jockeys as they travel the Road to the 150th Kentucky Derby (G1) May 4 at Churchill Downs.View the full article

Globetrotter Spirit Dancer (GB) (Frankel {GB}) has exited his G2 Neom Turf Cup victory in good order and has safely returned to Dubai, where he will be prepared for Dubai World Cup night at the end of March, connections confirmed on Wednesday. Trainer Richard Fahey is targetting either the G1 Dubai Turf over 1800 metres, or the G1 Dubai Sheema Classic over 2410 metres both on turf for the gelding, who races in the colours of Sir Alex Ferguson, Peter Done and Ged Mason. Said Fahey, “We flew him into Dubai for his last run [in the Jebel Hatta] and left him there and now he has flown back to Dubai. We will see how he is, but he looks well and is summering well in Dubai. He's in great form and enjoying life at the moment competing at the very highest level. “Definitely, all being well, you will see him on World Cup night.” A winner of the G3 Strensall S. last year, Spirit Dancer added the G2 Bahrain International Trophy S. in November, prior to last Saturday's Neom Turf Cup score in Riyadh. Fahey added, “I haven't decided which race yet and it will be either be the nine-furlong race or the mile and a half. I'll see how he is training and I have to make a decision soon because he has an invite, but I haven't 100% made a decision yet. “It's always been in my mind to give him a go [at a mile and a half]. I'll have to have look and see what runs in each race there and I'm afraid there is no easy race, but when they are $5m and $6m races, that's what you expect in Dubai.” The post Spirit Dancer In Good Order For Dubai World Cup Night appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Vicente Del Cid finished atop the rider standings, while Karl Broberg retained his grip on the leading trainer crown and End Zone Athletics, Inc. won another leading owner title as results from the 2023-2024 Thoroughbred season at Delta Downs mirrored last year's results at the Louisiana track. The Thoroughbred season concluded Saturday. Del Cid won his second consecutive title as leading rider with 116 wins from 438 mounts and $2,624,265 in mount earnings. The Guatemala native's first career win came at Delta Downs on Oct. 21, 2021, and he finished second in the voting for the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Jockey in 2022. Del Cid also won the title of leading jockey at Boyd Gaming's Evangeline Downs in 2022 and 2023 Broberg continued his dominance at Delta Downs in 2023-24, sending out 65 winners and totaling $1,353,610 in barn earnings to lead each category. It was the 13th straight time the Broberg barn has led the standings dating back to the 2011-12 season. During the 2018-19 season his horses set the current records for Thoroughbred trainers with 107 wins and earnings of $2,017,120. The End Zone Athletics of Broberg and Matt Johanson, saw 50 of its runners win and earn a total of $983,560 during the meeting to lead both categories for owners. It was the ninth consecutive title and 12th overall for End Zone. The post Del Cid, Broberg, and End Zone Athletics Repeat at Delta Downs appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Turfway Park Racing & Gaming will once again be open for year-round training, track officials announced Wednesday. Summer stall applications are due Mar. 15. “There is once again significant interest from trainers to remain based at Turfway Park for year-round training,” said Gary Palmisano, Jr., vice president of racing for Churchill Downs, Inc. “Turfway is conveniently located within a reasonable van drive to both Churchill Downs and Ellis Park. Any trainer that ships a horse from Turfway to compete at either of those two tracks, along with Colonial Downs and Presque Isle Downs, will receive a $150 credit to assist with stall expenses.” Stall applications can be found here or by contacting Peggy Pate at Peggy.Pate@turfwaypark.com. Summer stall space will run from Apr. 15 through Oct. 31. The post Turfway to Remain Open for Year-Round Training appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Following the successful debut of its North Warning Distance Claiming series in 2023, Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack has added three more claiming series to its 2024 meet which opens Apr. 29. Pending approval from the New York State Gaming Commission, the track's racing secretary Jerry Richards will add an additional distance series for fillies and mares and two sprint claiming series. All three series are named after some of the winningest horses to ever compete at Finger Lakes. The Unhinged Iron Distance Claiming Series is the female version of the North Warning series, while the sprint series are named the Mt. Rushmore, and the Wise Awake for fillies and mares. All three series feature two claiming legs prior to a final. Each series kicks off Aug. 5 with $5,000 claimers vying for $14,000 (added). The sprint distance will be a five-furlong dash, while the Unhinged Iron series starts out at 1 1/16 miles. The claiming price increases to $6,250 for leg two, scheduled for Labor Day, Sept. 2. Sprinters will compete at 5 1/2 furlongs with the ladies in the Unhinged Iron Distance Series racing an extra sixteenth of a mile to 1 1/8 miles. The purse money increases to $17,500 (added). All finals will be run on New York Breeders' Futurity Day, Oct. 21, and will each feature a $25,000 purse. Distances will be six furlongs for the sprinters and the Classic distance of 1 1/4 miles for the Unhinged Iron. To be eligible for the finals, horses must have run in one of the first two legs and have earned enough points to make the finals. There is no claiming in any series final. The North Warning series will return for its second year on July 1 and feature three legs and a final. The final of the North Warning, also to be run on Oct. 21, will be contested at 1 3/4 miles for a purse of $30,000. The Oct. 21 program will be one of the richest days in the 63-year history of Finger Lakes. The card will feature the $200,000 (estimated) New York Breeders Futurity, $50,000 Jack Betta Be Rite stakes and $50,000 Genesee Valley Breeders, as well as the four claiming series finals. “We see a lot of value to our horseman by running these claiming series,” said Richards, who is in his third season at Finger Lakes. “The rich final of each series gives these lower-level claimers a nice opportunity to make some good money, and we're all for that.” The post Finger Lakes Adds Three New Claiming Series appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Promising sprinter backs up smart debut win with another impressive showing at the city circuit on Wednesday nightView the full article

Arcangelo (Arrogate–Modeling, by Tapit) and Up to the Mark (Not This Time–Belle's Finale, by Ghostzapper), both Eclipse champions of 2023 now standing their first season at stud at Lane's End, have had their first mares scanned in foal. Diamondcoat (Gemologist) has been pronounced in foal to 2023 champion 3-year-old Arcangelo. The 9-year-old mare, owned by Allied Racing Stable, is a half-sister to multiple Grade I-placed Absinthe Minded (Quiet American), the dam of GI Kentucky Oaks winner Secret Oath (Arrogate). Campaigned by John Ebbert's Blue Rose Farm and trained by Jena Antonucci, Arcangelo won last year's GI Belmont S. and GI Travers S. He stands for $35,000. Wrapper Rule (Candy Ride {Arg}) has been pronounced in foal to 2023 champion turf male Up to the Mark. The 6-year-old mare is a three-quarter sibling to Chatalas (Gun Runner), who won the 2023 GII Chandelier S. She is owned by Bruce Gibbs, Michael and Andrea Callanan and Declan Burk. Up to the Mark, raced by Repole Stable and St. Elias Stables and trained by Todd Pletcher, won the GI Old Forester Bourbon Turf Classic S., GI Manhattan S. and GI Coolmore Turf Mile S. He was second in the GI Breeder's Cup Turf before beginning his stud career at a fee of $25,000. The post First Mares in Foal to Arcangelo and Up to the Mark appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

WinStar Farm has secured a 'Name, Image, and Likeness' deal with University of Kentucky basketball player Reed Sheppard to promote WinStar stallion Life Is Good (Into Mischief). A freshman guard for John Calipari's Wildcats, Sheppard was Mr. Kentucky Basketball in 2023 and a McDonald's All-American. Also honored as the 2022 Kentucky Gatorade Player of the Year, Sheppard is off to a fast start for the Wildcats (20-8) this season. With March Madness on the horizon, Sheppard is averaging 12.5 points per game, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.3 assists in the 2023-24 season. A native of London, KY., Sheppard is the son of Jeff and Stacey Sheppard, who both played college basketball at UK. Jeff was the Most Valuable Player of the 1998 Final Four and won two national championships. “Reed Sheppard is all about what we believe in at WinStar,” said WinStar Farm President and CEO Elliott Walden. “Being a good teammate (partner), conducting himself with humility, and giving 100% in all he does. We think he is a great fit for Life Is Good and WinStar Farm.” A four-time Grade I winner, including the 2021 GI Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile, Life is Good is currently standing his second season at stud. He bred 192 mares in his initial season, including 70 GSW/GS producers and 25 GIW/GI producers and his first in-foal mares sold for up to $1.2 million. He stands for $85,000 S&N. The post WinStar Secures NIL Deal with UK’s Reed Sheppard appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Mr. Big (Dynaformer–Fashion Delight, by Fappiano) died Tuesday due to complications from laminitis. Sire of 12 black-type winners, including California-bred champions Big Fish and Ceiling Crusher, Mr. Big was 21. Mr. Big was campaigned by George Krikorian, who purchased the bay as a weanling for $220,000 at the 2003 Keeneland November sale. Krikorian then developed him into one of California's leading sires. “I'm heartbroken–Mr. Big was a very special horse,” Krikorian said. Mr. Big had stood the past two seasons at Pete and Evelyn Parrella's Legacy Ranch in Clements, California, and had just begun the 2024 covering season. “Myself, Evelyn and the entire staff at Legacy Ranch are devastated by this sudden turn of events,” Parrella said. “Mr. Big has become a major influence in the breeding industry in California. His loss is not just our loss, but a big loss for the entire state. We are honored that Mr. Krikorian had the confidence in Legacy Ranch to have Mr. Big stand here. He's going to be sorely missed.” From a racing career limited to nine starts due to injury, Mr. Big won twice at Hollywood Park. He was originally trained by John Shirreffs and later by Bob Baffert after Shirreffs relocated to New York. Under Baffert's tutelage, Mr. Big captured a 1 1/16-mile allowance event with Mike Smith aboard, crushing his competition by 8 3/4 lengths. Krikorian retired Mr. Big to his Kentucky farm in early 2010 and bred him to a few of his mares. His faith in the horse was rewarded when Mr. Big's first foal, Big Break, won for Krikorian first time out by 7 3/4 lengths at Santa Anita. Big Break went on to earn $236,699 in 42 starts over four seasons. Ceiling Crusher is the stallion's leading earning to date. The 4-year-old filly won last year's GI Cotillion S. and GIII Torrey Pines S. and, with career earnings of $938,400, sold to Katsumi Yoshida for $750,000 at last year's Fasig-Tipton November sale. Mr. Big got his first graded winner when Kentucky-bred Big Score won the 2017 GIII Transylvania S. at Keeneland in Krikorian's colors. “I brought Mr. Big out to California because I thought he'd have a better chance as a stallion,” Krikorian said. “And that's what happened.” Krikorian-bred Big Fish won the 2020 Del Mar Juvenile Turf S. and was named co-champion Cal-bred 2-year-old male of 2020. Other stakes winners soon followed, including $392,420-earner Big Switch, $367,958-earner Big Sweep, $367,958-earner Big Summer, and $345,770-earner Chancery Way. “We have a lot of horses coming up by Mr. Big that have shown good potential,” Krikorian said. “Mr. Big was the special gift that kept on giving.” The post California Stallion Mr. Big Dies appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A gallop at Sandown and a jump-out at Cranbourne will be the final two pieces of serious work for Pride Of Jenni (Pride of Dubai) leading into the All-Star Mile at Caulfield. The Ciaron Maher-trained mare galloped with Berkshire Shadow at Sandown on Wednesday in preparation for the $4 million race over 1600m at Caulfield on March 16. Pride Of Jenni, who was bred by Trelawney Stud, will enter the All-Star Mile with only the one run, a second-place finish to Mr Brightside (NZ) (Bullbars) in the Group 1 C F Orr Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on February 10, under the belt. Jack Turnbull, an assistant trainer with Ciaron Maher Racing, said Pride Of Jenni was benefitting from a light campaign leading up to All-Star Mile. He said the first-up performance had not taken a lot out of Pride Of Jenni, but she had felt the run. “She feels all of her runs. It’s the effort she puts in,” Turnbull said. “We just thought this time around as she had a solid racing campaign last time that if we went five weeks between runs, a soft jump-out, and then went to the All-Star Mile, it would set us up to potentially go to Sydney without her being overly taxed. “If it was the other way around, three or four runs in, I’m sure it would have been OK. “The fact that we were first-up and then potentially going two weeks again, it might have been a bit too much.” Turnbull said Pride Of Jenni was structurally very sound, but physically tightens up after every run. The stable elected to give her time to get over that first run and fill back up again. “She had a few light days, a bit of swimming and she tells us when she’s ready to go because she carries on a bit,” Turnbull said. “And she was like that today, so it was perfect.” Turnbull said regular jockey Declan Bates was happy with the way Pride Of Jenni galloped. He said the mare wanted to get on with the gallop in the mid stages. “He (Bates) said late she kept getting stronger and stronger and in terms of the feel she gave him, and how she pulled up post gallop, he seemed delighted,” Turnbull said. “She’ll have a jump-out on Monday. She won’t do anything until then. “Today was more or less her solid effort and she can have a working gallop on Monday, and she’ll have a leg stretch during the week of the All-Star Mile.” View the full article

After two placings in maiden grade in New Zealand, the Lindsay Park stable went looking to purchase Grid Girl (NZ) (Time Test) for a group of loyal clients. The purchase proved a smart buy for the stable run by Ben, Will and J D Hayes after Grid Girl scored a strong win on her Australian debut at Sandown. The form surrounding Grid Girl in her two runs in New Zealand had been encouraging, and finishing behind the filly in the second of those starts was Molly Bloom (NZ) (Ace High). Molly Bloom went onto claim the Gr.1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas at Riccarton, along with two other Group Two victories, the latest at Te Rapa on February 10. “We were very happy to see how the form was developing while she was here in Australia,” J D Hayes said. “We’ve got very good clients on board, and it was a very good start to her Australian career.” Ridden by Blaike McDougall, Grid Girl ($5.50) scored a half-length win in the 1400m maiden from Both Sides Now (Puissance De Lune) ($5) with the $4 favourite Grey Ice (NZ) (Reliable Man) a further 1-½ lengths away third. Hayes said he and his brothers had given Grid Girl time to settle into her new environment before commencing her preparation which ultimately may lead the filly to Adelaide for Stakes races. “When she came across, we completely reset her,” Hayes said. “She’s had a lovely introduction and build-up here in Australia and what was good about that win too, was she did a lot wrong. “In the pre-parade she got a bit hot, so there’s lots of improvement to come, which is nice, because winning in the city is hard to beat.” Hayes said he expects Grid Girl to appreciate stepping out in journey, but at this stage of the preparation the stable will not be rushing the filly to a higher grade. “We will learn case by case, but she was strong late after pulling, so I don’t think a mile will be any problem,” Hayes said. “That was good. She had a very good base with the three trials, so she was very fit, but we’ll see how she pulls-up and make some plans with her. “Hopefully we can plot a path to Adelaide.” View the full article

Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr will saddle a two-pronged attack in the Australian Guineas and enter the race with the belief they have the right horses for the contest. Snow Patrol (NZ) (Contributer) and Otago (NZ) (Ocean park) have, importantly, drawn good barriers for the Group One contest over 1600m at Flemington on Saturday as Price bids for a fourth win in the Classic. Price won in successive years with Light Fantastic (2008) and Heart Of Dreams (2009) before Grunt (2018) gave his third victory and believes his duo this year have strong claims. “It’s a little bit even the race, and if there were five chances in the race, I’ve got two of them and they’ve both had good preps,” Price said. Snow Patrol showed potential in a three-start preparation in the spring but was spelled before the Group One races got into full swing. He returned to win first-up in the Gr.2 Autumn Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on February 10 where he just nosed out Southern Tycoon (Last Tycoon), an opponent again on Saturday. Price said Snow Patrol had had the preparation to win the Guineas despite being second-up into the race. He added the three-week gap between races was also ideal. “I think it suits the Contributor breed to have their runs spaced a little bit,” Price said. “It certainly suits him. He’s a big strong horse and that’s the feeling he gives me. “That first-up win didn’t knock him around too much, but we were able to give him a quiet week then build him up for the mile.” Otago chased home Riff Rocket (American Pharoah), King Colorado (Kingman) and Verdad (Justify) in the Gr.3 C S Hayes Stakes (1400m) at Flemington on February 17 and Price concedes it will be a tough task to turn the tables on that brigade who are all set to line up again on Saturday. “The problem with Otago and the form around him, the first, second and third horses that beat him home in the C S Hayes, all have good improvement in them,” Price said. “I don’t know if he can improve enough to say that he can beat them, but he’s fit and he’s well, and he’s running, and it is a horse race.” View the full article

Samantha Wynne returns victorious aboard Turf War at Riccarton last week. Photo: Race Images South Prebbleton horsewoman Samantha Wynne will head south to Wingatui on Saturday where she will be trying to claim the lion’s share of the $200,000 prizemoney on offer with Turf War. A dual license holder, Wynne both trains and rides the four-year-old gelding, with the pair securing their place in Saturday’s rich feature at Riccarton last Friday. Wynne is looking forward to chasing the southern riches this weekend and said it is great South Island trainers have the big carrot of the final to chase over summer. “It’s very exciting for the owners. We didn’t think we would get a chance like this so it will be good to give it a crack,” Wynne said. “It is great to be racing for that kind of money in the South Island, especially further south, the South Island deserves it. “He went into last week’s race with a month between runs, so hopefully he naturally takes improvement from that. The back-up is going to be the question, but he seems to have pulled up great – so far so good.” Turf War has drawn gate 13 for Saturday’s contest, but Wynne said it may not be as bad as it looks. “At first, I wasn’t that impressed (by the draw) but it will be the second-to-last race of the day and he has great gate speed, so I am not too worried about the draw.” The Irish expat has been a familiar face in the jockeys’ room over the last decade, but is now enjoying extending her role in racing to the training ranks where she has posted seven wins over the last three seasons. “I have got nine in work at the moment and I truly enjoy it,” she said. “Having no family here, and having all day to yourself, it is not that nice, so the horses fill a big void and I love it.” Wynne said she tries to not feel the pressure of both training and riding Turf War and takes plenty of confidence in the hard work she has put into the horse. “I know I leave no stone unturned at home, so I have every confidence going out on them,” she said. Wynne has a full book of rides at Wingatui on Saturday and is particularly looking forward to partnering with the Shane Kennedy and Anna Furlong-trained Warning Signal in the Listed NZB Airfreight Stakes (1400m). “She is a lovely type of filly,” Wynne said. “I rode her in a trial way back and I really liked her then. I am delighted to throw my leg back over. She has great experience and has already won a couple of races, so we just need a little bit of luck.” Horse racing news View the full article