Wandering Eyes

Waikato Stud’s Super Seth has struck a significant offshore blow with the Group One-winning son of Dundeel siring his first juvenile winner in Australia. The race day covers came off his highly regarded son Linebacker (NZ) (Super Seth) at Hawkesbury this afternoon and the John O’Shea-prepared colt didn’t disappoint, coping admirably with a heavy track to romp to an effortless victory over 1300m. “I like the Super Seths, they’ve got great minds and the ones I have got have been great to train,” O’Shea said. “I’m quite bullish on this colt and I don’t want to overtax him as a two-year-old, he’ll be much better at three.” Sent out a hot favourite off the back of a Randwick trial success, Linebacker was quickly into stride to make the running for Kerrin McEvoy and didn’t need to find top gear in the run home to be out on his own by four lengths at the post. “He’s always showed promise and had performed really well at the trials and showed that out there again today. He is very much above average,” McEvoy said. Bred by GSA Bloodstock, Linebacker was purchased out of Haunui Farm’s draft at New Zealand Bloodstock’s National Yearling Sale for $160,000 by O’Shea and Suman Hedge Bloodstock. He is a son of the English-bred Oasis Dream mare Garden Of Swans, who is a half-sister to the Gr.1 Sandown Eclipse Stakes winner and sire Mukhadram. Linebacker’s brother was also secured by O’Shea with James Bester Bloodstock for A$80,000 at this year’s Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale. Super Seth has been represented in New Zealand by the winners Poetic Champion (NZ), also placed in the Wakefield Challenge Stakes and the Listed Counties Challenge Stakes, and Diablo Blanco (NZ) from just six representatives. His progeny were keenly sought after at the recent New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale with a top Book 1 price of $700,000 paid by Patella Bloodstock for Pencarrow Stud’s half-brother to Group winners Pearl Of Alsace (NZ) (Tavistock) and Zourion (NZ) (Zoustar). View the full article

Classic assignments could be in the offing for promising stayer First Innings (NZ) (Contributer) following his impressive maiden win in the Cambridge Stud 2100 at Pukekohe on Wednesday. The three-year-old son of Contributer had pleased trainer Andrew Forsman in his three prior outings, including a runner-up effort over 2100m at Te Rapa last month. The three-year-old gelding settled midfield on the fence for leading hoop Opie Bosson in the midweek fixture and enjoyed an economical passage throughout. Down the home straight, Bosson was able to find a gap between runners and First Innings began to chase down leader Northern Raider (NZ) (El Roca) and got on even terms with his rival at the 100m mark, and powered away to a 1-1/4 length victory. Forsman was pleased with the winning performance and the manner in which First Innings closed out the 2100m. “He has done quite well in a pretty short career to date. He is lightly tried but every start he has been impressive,” Forsman said. “He is an out-and-out stayer, he will just get better with time. He is doing it all on one preparation, which is the hard part at this stage. He seems to be handling everything well so far.” First Innings holds a nomination for the Gr.1 Trackside New Zealand Derby (2400m) at Ellerslie on Saturday-week, and Forsman said a decision on whether his gelding tackles the Classic will be made in the coming days. “We will see how he comes through it first and foremost and then have a talk with the owners and see what they want to do,” Forsman said. “There are different arguments to be made for doing it either way, but firstly we will leave it up to the horse to decide and then work it out in the next couple of days. “He is promising, he is going to end up a nice open-class stayer and it is always nice if they can do something as an age group horse as well. That is what we will be trying to do, and whether that is next Saturday or we are a little more patient, we will work it out.” Forsman has a good association with the New Zealand Derby, having won it on two prior occasions when training in partnership with Murray Baker, including Mongolian Khan in 2015 and Vin De Dance in 2018. View the full article

Regally-bred mare Manifique (NZ) (Savabeel) is already assured of a broodmare career, however, trainer Peter Didham is keen to gain some black-type with her before she heads to the breeding barn. A daughter of New Zealand Champion Sire Savabeel and four-time Group One winner Shez Sinsational (NZ) (Ekraar), Manifique is also a half-sister to Group One performers Sinarahma (NZ) (Darci Brahma) and House Of Cartier (Alamosa), and Didham believes his mare is just as capable. The five-year-old mare has won four of her starts to date and while she finished last in her maiden stakes outing in the Gr.3 Manawatu Cup (2300m) at Trentham in December, she bounced back to finish fourth in the Listed Wairarapa Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) at Tauherenikau earlier this month. Didham has been pleased with the way she has progressed and will head north with her on Saturday to tackle the Listed Matamata Veterinary Services Kaimai Stakes (2000m) at Matamata. “It was a great run at Tauherenikau over a mile,” Didham said. “Another 20m and she would have got up. She is a 2000m horse with a turn of foot. I am excited with the way she has come back, we still don’t know what went wrong at Wellington in the Manawatu Cup, but she seems to be over that. “It was a great run at Tauherenikau and I expect her to go really well.” Didham believes his mare is still on the way up and thinks she will peak next season as a six-year-old. “We have started to aim for that (black-type). Next year will be her year, she has just been a year behind all the time. She is not the biggest Savabeel but she is very talented,” he said. Manifique will be Didham’s sole representative in the north on Saturday, while he will have two runners at Otaki – Danjuro (NZ) (Saxon Warrior) in the Cavallo Farm & Chris Rutten Bloodstock 3YO (1600m) and last start runner-up Voice Over in the Riverstone Café Handicap (1200m). Danjuro showed a lot of promise in the spring, winning on debut before his runner-up performance at Trentham led to a tilt at the Gr.1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton in November where he finished sixth. He disappointed in his resuming run when ninth over 1200m at Trentham last month and Didham said his performance this weekend will dictate his autumn plans. “It is hard to get a gauge on him,” Didham said. “I thought his trial was a touch disappointing the other day. He was really promising last year. I can’t find anything wrong with him and he needs to show me what he has got again this week. “He has been galloping with Manifique and galloping well. It is hard to get a line on him because he doesn’t work that great, he just does what he has to do. Joe Doyle (jockey) will be on and I expect to get some feedback from him on where I am going.” Didham is also hopeful of a good showing from Voice Over (NZ) (U S Navy Flag), who will have Matt Cameron in the saddle. “He deserves a Saturday go, it was a good run at Tauherenikau,” Didham said. “He is not very big but he has got a big heart and tries hard.” While looking forward to the weekend, Didham’s attention is currently set towards Wanganui’s Thursday meeting where he will line-up a trio of runners. Consistent mare Hasbulla (NZ) (Vespa) will attempt to break maiden ranks in the Mad Butcher Wanganui Maiden 1360, while Lemaitre (NZ) (Turn Me Loose) will make his debut in the Wanganui Insurance Brokers Maiden 1200, and Kana (NZ) (Tivaci) will be looking to recapture form in the Jolt Coffee House 1200. “Hasbulla has had a few issues in the past, but it’s a nice race for her, she has got a nice draw (1) and we have gone for a claim. It will be her first time with a hood on as well,” Didham said. “She has only had four starts and she has been competitive every start. She is a nice horse, she tries hard and tomorrow she should be hard to beat. “Lemaitre shows promise, he is a half to Wakari that Roydon Bergerson trains. Denlee, his mum, was runner-up in a Cuddle Stakes (Gr.3, 1600m). He is a big, raw horse that wants further and probably a cut in the track, but he is a nice horse. “Kana had no luck at Wellington, the track was against her. She trialled well at Foxton last week, I was really pleased with it. I think she will be back and storming home in the top three, and then she will go to Saturday company.” View the full article

Mr Brightside will seek back-to-back Group 1 victories when he steps out in the Futurity Stakes at Caulfield on Saturday. (Photo: George Sal/Racing Photos) The first of the three Group 1 races at Caulfield this Saturday will be the $750,000 Futurity Stakes over 1400m. With only eight runners accepting for the weight-for-age feature, Mr Brightside has opened as a -200 favourite with online bookmakers. The Ben, Will & JD Hayes-trained galloper will be seeking his sixth Group 1 success in the Futurity, having claimed his fifth with a barnstorming finish in the Group 1 C.F. Orr Stakes at this track and trip first-up. The son of Bullbars defeated three rivals last start that he will face again on Saturday, as Pericles (+1200), Munhamek (+1700) and Buffalo River (+1200) have all taken the same route as the favourite to begin their autumn campaign. Nugget (+700) will return from a 19-week spell after he was last seen running an impressive fourth in the Group 1 King Charles III Stakes at Randwick on October 14. The Ciaron Maher-trained gelding will gain the services of Mark Zahra and will be seeking his first Group 1 victory at the sixth time of asking. Mitchell Freedman claimed his maiden Group 1 win as a trainer when Attrition (+800) claimed the Toorak Handicap last time out, and he will be looking to claim his second when his four-year-old entire kicks off his campaign at Caulfield this weekend. The Futurity Stakes will be race seven on the Caulfield program and is scheduled to jump at 3:40pm AEDT. 2024 Futurity Stakes final field Odds correct as of 11:30am AEDT on 21/2 1. Mr Brightside (5) T: Ben, Will & JD Hayes J: Craig Williams W: 59kg F: 1×222 Age: 6YO Color: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Bullbars Dam: Lilahjay (NZ) -200 -1250 2. Pericles (1) T: James Cummings J: Jamie Kah W: 59kg F: 6×231 Age: 4YO Color: Brown Sex: Gelding Sire: Street Boss (USA) Dam: Accessories (GB) +1200 +150 3. Munhamek (4) T: Nick Ryan J: Blake Shinn W: 59kg F: 7103x Age: 8YO Color: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Dark Angel (IRE) Dam: Cadenza (FR) +1700 +210 4. Doom To Shoot (6) T: Sean & Jake Casey J: Damian Lane W: 59kg F: x9132 Age: 6YO Color: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Shooting To Win Dam: Princess Rouge (NZ) +1400 +180 5. Nugget (2) T: Ciaron Maher J: Mark Zahra W: 59kg F: x404x Age: 7YO Color: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Siyouni (FR) Dam: Gemstone (IRE) +700 -111.11 6. Buffalo River (7) T: Mike Moroney J: Celine Gaudray W: 59kg F: 33×01 Age: 8YO Color: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Noble Mission (GB) Dam: Fashion Insider (USA) +1200 +150 7. Attrition (8) T: Mitchell Freedman J: Ben Melham W: 59kg F: x1025 Age: 4YO Color: Bay Sex: Horse Sire: Churchill (IRE) Dam: Queen’s Kiss +800 +100 8. Hey Fat Cat (3) T: Robbie Laing J: TBC W: 55.5kg F: 5411x Age: 3YO Color: Brown Sex: Gelding Sire: Rubick Dam: Keep de Rose (NZ) +2500 +300 Horse racing news View the full article

What Canterbury Races Where Canterbury Park Racecourse – King St, Canterbury NSW 2193 When Friday, February 23, 2024 First Race 6pm AEDT Visit Dabble The summer series of racing continues this Friday night under the bright lights of Canterbury Park Racecourse, where a competitive eight-race program awaits punters. The rail has been moved back to the true position, and although the surface is rated a Heavy 9 at the time of writing, an upgrade is expected at some stage. The action is scheduled to get underway at 6pm local time. Best Bet: Morning Sun Morning Sun has found the minor money on both occasions since arriving at the Annabel Neasham barn and appears set to peak third-up. The European son of Muhaarar has been ticking over nicely since coming to Australia, kicking off the preparation with a runner-up effort at Warwick Farm on January 1 before stepping up to BM78 level at Rosehill on February 3. The five-year-old seemingly peaked in his most recent start, and with fitness on his side to go along with some favourable wet-track conditions, there’s no doubt Morning Sun will be fighting out the finish. Best Bet Race 5 – #3 Morning Sun (4) 5yo Gelding | T: Annabel Neasham | J: Nash Rawiller (59kg) Bet with PlayUp Next Best: Dipsy Doodle Considering Dipsy Doodle was first-up after a 38-week spell at Rosehill on February 3, the Godolphin filly was simply sensational without winning. The three-year-old faded back into a third-place finish after setting a hectic tempo, with the winner, Our Kobison, breaking a long-standing track record. Although she only had to carry the feather-light weight of 52kg, BM88 company was always going to prove a bridge too far first-up. Back to BM78 on Friday appears more manageable, and with top jockey James McDonald hopping back aboard, Dipsy Doodle will take plenty of chasing down this time. Next Best Race 7 – #5 Dipsy Doodle (7) 3yo Filly | T: James Cummings | J: James McDonald (57.5kg) Bet with Neds Next Best Again: Infinitive Follow Files readers will know Infinitive was luckless in her latest attempt at Randwick on February 10. The Chris Waller-trained mare was about to let down with her devastating turn-of-foot when she ran into a wall of horses under Kerrin McEvoy. Once she did get some space to hit the gaps, Infinitive was the eye-catcher in a race that had a relatively small field and lacked a genuine tempo. That shouldn’t be the case in this full field of 12, and provided James McDonald can get this girl launching down the centre of the course, Infinitive should send punters home happy. Next Best Again Race 8 – #6 Infinitive (3) 4yo Mare | T: Chris Waller | J: James McDonald (58.5kg) Bet with Bet365 Canterbury Friday quaddie tips – Feb 23, 2024 Canterbury quadrella selections Friday, February 23, 2024 2-3-5-6 1-2-4-8-10 2-5-7-8-11 1-4-5-6-8-10 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

This year, The Jockey Club will invest at least $7 million to support initiatives ranging from equine safety and aftercare to industry promotion and national and international collaboration. View the full article

Australian targets beckon Group One winner La Crique. Photo: Trish Dunell Simon and Katrina Alexander are hopeful the best of La Crique’s season is yet to come, with the Group One winner heading south on Saturday to tackle the Group 1 Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m) at Otaki. A daughter of Vadamos, La Crique resumed after a muddled spring campaign with a solid fourth-placed effort in the Group 2 Westbury Classic (1400m) on Karaka Millions Night last month, a run that gave the husband-and-wife training partnership confidence to target the Central Districts feature. “I’m very pleased with how she came through that run, it was fresh-up for her whereas a lot of the other horses were having more of a grand finale,” Katrina Alexander said. “I was very happy with how she found the line, it was all that we needed to see from her to make sure we’re on the right track.” Despite several campaigns hindered by heavy tracks and soundness issues, La Crique’s record boasts multiple victories and placings at Group level, topped by an outstanding performance to claim last season’s Group 1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m). The mare was a gallant second behind the now retired Levante in last year’s edition of the Otaki WFA Classic, but Alexander is looking forward to stepping her up over further ground. “She’s trained on super from the Westbury Classic and I believe we’re getting closer to the horse we know,” she said. “Having said that, she’s a lot more mature now, she’s wanting the distance as opposed to be brilliant over the shorter distances, so it’ll be another progressive run for her. But we’re more than happy to be sending her to Otaki and seeing what she can do.” La Crique has formed a successful partnership with in-form hoop Craig Grylls, who has been in the saddle in 10 of her 17 career starts, but with his commitments to last start Group 1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) winner Puntura, Matt Cameron will take the ride. “Matt Cameron will ride her this time, Gryllsy understandably had to make a decision and Robbie’s team is very much in form at the moment,” Alexander said. “We’re thrilled to have Matt on, and he seems to be very happy to take the ride. It’ll be interesting to see her with someone else on, it’s been a while since she’s had a change, so it’ll be good going forward to see how she behaves under a new jockey as well.” Horse racing news View the full article

Pounce, a three-year-old daughter of Lookin At Lucky, topped the Fasig-Tipton February Digital Sale, selling for $370,000 to John Stewart's Resolute Bloodstock. The sale closed Tuesday evening with 116 horses sold for $4,308,800. The catalogue featured horses of racing age, breeding stock, and yearlings. Also featured in the catalogue were breeding stock and yearlings from Phase 1 of the Dispersal of Ruis Racing LLC. The 752 registered bidders were a new record for a single sale on Fasig-Tipton Digital. PPounce was from the consignment of Highgate Sales, agent. Offered as a racing/broodmare prospect, Pounce is a winner at 2 and 3, on dirt and turf, and has earned $96,004 in just three career starts to date. She hails from the immediate family of two-time champion and millionaire Essence Hit Man. “I'm happy we got her sold,” said Pounce's trainer Mark Casse. “I love these digital sales because this is a prime example for guys like us who buy and sell. It just works. When a horse runs well, that's what we do – we sell them. I've been fortunate to train some really good turf fillies and I think Pounce has the potential to be one.” The remainder of the top five sold included: Broodmare Salt Lake Candy (Hip 36), in foal to Not This Time, sold for $330,000 to PMP from the consignment of Taylor Made Sales Agency, agent. A young unraced daughter of Candy Ride (ARG), Salt Lake Candy is a half-sister to the dams of dual Eclipse Champion Goodnight Olive and graded stakes winner Mohawk Trail. The foal she carries is bred on the same cross as Grade 1 winner Epicenter and Grade 2 winner Simplification. Baroness Juliette (Hip 40), in foal to Cancun, sold for $270,000 to H. Albina, agent for Newtownanner, from the consignment of Taylor Made Sales Agency, agent. The mare's second foal is recent Sam Davis S. (G3) (TAM) No More Time, currently 9th on the Road to the Kentucky Derby leaderboard. Antares (Hip 17), a four-year-old son of American Pharoah, sold for $210,000 to Willowbrook Stables, agent for Flying P Stable, from the consignment of Killora Stud LLC. Offered as a horse of racing age, Antares won two of his last three starts and has been on the board in six of nine career starts to date. Sister Otoole (Hip 12), a daughter of Amira's Prince (IRE), sold for $190,000 to Willow Park Stud Scone from the consignment of Bluewater Sales, agent. A multiple stakes winner, five times graded stakes placed, Sister Otoole was offered as a broodmare prospect. Her half-sister Frosty O Toole (Frosted) provided a timely update with a good second in the Nellie Morse S. (LRL) on February 17. She is also a half-sister to the dam of multiple graded stakes winner Mr. Money from the immediate family of Dubai World Cup (G1) winner Well Armed and recent Grade 1 winners Cyberknife and Played Hard. “The clearance rate (90%) was amazing, with rock solid action from top to bottom,” said Leif Aaron, Fasig-Tipton's Director of Digital Sales. “We have to thank our buyers and sellers for making this such a successful sale.” Overall, 116 horses sold for $4,308,800, good for an average of $37,144. With 129 hips offered, the RNA rate was just 10%. More than 750 potential buyers registered to bid, a single-sale record for the platform. Full results are available online. The next Fasig-Tipton Digital sale will be the March Digital Sale, which opens for bidding on Thursday, March 7, and closes on Tuesday, March 12. Entries close on February 28. Call Leif Aaron at (859) 255-1555 to nominate or email laaron@fasigtipton.com. Nominations will also be accepted via the Client Portal. The post Pounce Tops Fasig-Tipton February Digital Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Two younger members of Tony Pike’s team will spearhead the stable’s representation at Matamata with higher honours beckoning the duo if they race up to expectations. The Cambridge trainer will chase a two-year-old feature double on Saturday with Archaic Smile (Saxon Warrior) in the Gr.2 J Swap Contractors Ltd Matamata Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) and Poetic Champion (NZ) (Super Seth) in the Gr.2 Fairview Matamata Slipper (1200m). Archaic Smile was a debut fifth at Te Rapa before she trekked south to win at Otaki in November and returned to the Central Districts in January to add the Listed Wellesley Stakes (1100m) at Trentham to her record. “She is a very progressive filly and has obviously been impressive in her last two runs,” Pike said. “She’s always showed ability and drew a wide gate in her first start and got a bit lost and was green, so it was a pretty good run in what has turned out to be a good form race.” The Listed Challenge Stakes (1100m) was won by subsequent Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m) winner Velocious (Written Tycoon) while third placegetter Bellatrix Star (Star Witness) has since won the Gr.2 Eclipse Stakes (1200m) and run fourth in the Millions. “Archaic Smile took good improvement from Te Rapa and she has been dominant in her last two,” Pike said. “If she wins at the weekend or runs extremely well, then she would probably press on to the Sistema (Gr.1, 1200m), that’s the logical option.” That thinking also applies to Poetic Champion, who romped home on debut at Hawera and placed in the Challenge Stakes and the Gr.2 Wakefield Challenge Stakes (1100m) before he was a gallant sixth from the outside gate in the Millions at Ellerslie. “The barrier draw (14) was a bit of a nightmare and we decided to go back, but he still couldn’t get in and sat four wide for the trip,” Pike said. “Considering the way the track was playing that night and the run he had, you couldn’t have asked for anymore. It was a very genuine effort. “He had a week in the paddock after that and has come back in really good order and worked well on Tuesday morning.” Meanwhile, Churchillian (NZ) (Churchill) produced a career-best effort to win last month’s Gr.3 Anniversary Handicap (1600m) and will contest the Lisa Chittick Plate (1400m). “She is very honest and had a 10-day freshen-up after Wellington,” Pike said. “She might be a bit vulnerable on Saturday, but she’s had a great season and she’ll probably head to the Royal Descent Stakes (1600m) after this and possibly the New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (Gr.1, 1600m).” Last season’s Gr.2 Lowland Stakes (2100m) winner Val Di Zoldo (NZ) (War Decree) is the first emergency for the Listed Matamata Veterinary Services Equine Kaimai Stakes (2000m) and is also in the gavelhouse.com (2000m) as a back-up. She was a close last-start fifth in the Listed Wairarapa Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m). “Off a light weight, I think she’ll be an each-way chance in the Kaimai, but it has come up a bit stronger than I thought so she might miss a run. She’ll be a good chance in the Benchmark 75 and it would be another confidence-builder.” Cheval D’Or (NZ) (Almanzor) enjoyed a lucrative three-year-old season and will resume off a lengthy break in the Westbury Stud (1400m). She won the Gr.3 Championship Stakes (2100m) to earn a trip to the Brisbane winter carnival where she finished a respectable seventh in the Gr.1 Queensland Oaks (2200m). “She’s been off the scene for quite a while. She has trialled up well, but it will obviously be well short of her best and it will be a run to get the show back on the road,” Pike said. View the full article

The Castlepoint Beach races are an iconic event on the racing calendar and are set to make their return this Saturday after they were cancelled last year due to weather conditions. Awapuni trainer Peter Didham was looking forward to supporting the 150th anniversary celebrations at last year’s event, and while disappointed he wasn’t able to compete, he is excited to return to the meeting this year where he will be represented by a trio of runners. “It is great, we went last year and the races were cancelled, but we had a great time,” he said. “I have a couple of owners that were keen to go, so I have got Ruffhouse Rosie, Fabian Hawk and Gum Basher all going over to have a gallop in the water and sand. I have a few staff going over and they are looking forward to having a really good day out.” While Didham lined-up up a stable runner at the meeting a few years ago, he said this will be the first time he is sending over some competitive horses, and he is looking forward to supporting the iconic Wairarapa event he has enjoyed as a punter. “I had an old stable hack a couple of years ago that one of my staff took over, but it is the first time having a real go,” he said. “I have been a couple of times (as a spectator), we have got some friends that have a house over there. They get a big crowd and if they get a nice day it will be good, and the horses love it. “Kevin (Myers, trainer) takes about 30 horses there and he has got Aljay (Gr.3 New Zealand Cup winner) and all his good ones going. There have been some good horses win over there.” The Castlepoint Beach Races were immortalised in book form last year through the release of ‘Racing Against The Tide – 150 Years Of Horse Racing At Castlepoint’. Commissioned by the Castlepoint Racing Club, the 200-page coffee table-sized book has been a labour of love for author Matt Philp and photographer Lottie Hedley over the last couple of years. The book captures the community and rural feel of the iconic meeting, which takes place annually on the picturesque Castlepoint Beach, with the famed Castlepoint Lighthouse and Pacific Ocean in the backdrop. The event is engrained in the memories of many Wairarapa locals who accompanied their parents each year to the not-to-be missed social event of the summer, with Philp’s words and Hedley’s images bringing life to the characters and festivities behind the event. ‘Racing Against The Tide’ encapsulates the rich history of the meeting, from its rural roots to the modern day, where the undie 100, fashion parade, and Kids Big Dig bring has added further entertainment to the event. The Castlepoint Racing Club are looking forward to adding another chapter to the event this weekend. Books will be available to purchase for $55 or can also be ordered via the club’s website: castlepointracingclub.com. The Castlepoint race meeting is set to take place this Saturday, with the first race set to jump at 10:30am. What: Castlepoint Beach Races Where: Castlepoint Beach, Wairarapa When: Saturday, February 24, with the first race to jump at 10:30am Gate entry: $5pp cash Castlepoint Beach Races Programme 10.15am approx. PONY RACE 10.30am (tide dependent) Race 1: CASTLEPOINT STORE WAIRARAPA STATION HACK RACE. Children’s Game: Golf Ball and Spoon Race Race 2: JOHN GRIFFITH & CO LTD TINUI HIGHWEIGHT HANDICAP OPEN. Children’s Game: Wheelbarrow Race or Paired Horse Race Race 3: ORME & ASSOCIATES & BAKERAG LIGHTHOUSE HANDICAP OPEN. Children’s Game: Sack Race Race 4: CASTLEPOINT HOTEL CASTLEPOINT CUP OPEN. Presentation of the Castlepoint Cup to the winner Race 5: C R GRACE LTD MATAIKONA TRIAL STAKES. FASHION ON THE BEACH COMPETITION (First Prize: One night’s accommodation including breakfast at Copthorne Solway Park) Judged By Masterton District Councillor Stella Lennox and MP for Wairarapa Mike Butterick Race 6: REISIMA HAULAGE WHAKATAKI HANDICAP OPEN. Between Race Entertainment: Stallion Undie 100 & Filly Undie 100 race’s ($2 entry: Winner takes All plus $50 cash prize) Race 7: SOTHEBYS INTERNATIONAL REALTY SCHOFIELD HANDICAP OPEN. Children’s Entertainment: Westpac Big Dig View the full article

Horse Racing on Wednesday, February 21 will feature five meetings in Australia. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the best bets and provided free quaddie tips for the meetings at Ascot, Hawkesbury, Sandown & Happy Valley (HK). Wednesday Horse Racing Tips – February 21, 2024 Ascot Racing Tips Hawkesbury Racing Tips Sandown Racing Tips Happy Valley Racing Tips Best Horse Racing Bets For February 21, 2024 Place these horse racing bets in a multi for $8.74 odds return: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 Ascot – Race 5 #2 Sass Machine Hawkesbury – Race 1 #5 Linebacker Sandown – Race 5 #7 Yosemite Falls | Copy this bet straight to your betslip As always there a plenty of promotions available for Australian racing fans, check out all the top online bookmakers to see what daily promotions they have. If you are looking for a new bookmaker for the horse racing taking place on February 21, 2024 check out our guide to the best online racing betting sites. More horse racing tips View the full article

Picklebet is stirring up anticipation among horse racing punters with its enticing 25% Boosted Winnings promotion for Wednesday’s Sandown and Happy Valley races. This captivating offer enables bettors to enhance their potential winnings, injecting an additional level of excitement into the already thrilling action on the track. Through Picklebet’s inventive promotion, punters can capitalise on their returns while cheering home their preferred runners at Sandown and Happy Valley. Sandown & Happy Valley All Races – 25% Boosted Winnings Paid in Bonus Cash. First Fixed Win Cash Bet. Max Bonus $250. Picklebet T&Cs apply. Login to PickleBet to Claim Promo This promotion excludes punters from NSW and SA. Max winnings of $250. First fixed win bet only. Paid in Bonus Cash. Must use available balance. See Picklebet website for full terms & conditions. Picklebet.com are one of the new bookmakers making a splash on the horse racing scene and with inviting promotions like the one they are offering at Sandown and Happy Valley, they will continue to make an impact in Australia. Horse racing promotions View the full article

On Wednesday, February 21, various horse racing bookmakers have unveiled their racing promotions, featuring a range of enticing bonus back offers for horse racing enthusiasts. The top Australian racing promotions for February 21, 2024, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions Ipswich All Races – Same Race Multi 3+ Leg Bonus Back If 1 Leg Fails Place a 3+ leg Same Race Multi bet on any race at Ipswich this Wednesday and if 1 leg of your multi fails, get up to $50 back in Bonus Cash. Available from approximately 8:30am local track time on race day. Not available for Groups pot bets. Neds T&Cs apply. Login to Neds to Claim Promo Sandown Races 1-4 2nd or 3rd Bonus Back up to $50 Back a runner in races 1-4 at Sandown this Wednesday and if it runs 2nd or 3rd get up to $50 in Bonus Cash. Fixed Win bets only. Neds T&Cs apply. Login to Neds to Claim Promo Sandown Races 1-4 Bonus Back 2nd or 3rd Get your stake back in bonus bets. Limits apply. General T&Cs apply. Login to PlayUp to Claim Promo Odds Drift Protector If the price at the jump is bigger than the price that you took, we will pay you out at the bigger odds Eligible customers. T&C’s apply. Login to Bet365 to Claim Promo Place a 4+ leg multi, if one leg fails Bonus Back up to $50 Applies to your first eligible 4+ leg multi each day. Paid in Bonus Cash Picklebet T&Cs apply. Login to PickleBet to Claim Promo Sandown & Happy Valley All Races – 25% Boosted Winnings Paid in Bonus Cash. First Fixed Win Cash Bet. Max Bonus $250. 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 Trifectas by 10% with new Daily Trifecta Boosts. Thoroughbreds only. T&Cs apply. Login to UniBet to Claim Promo Bonus Back 2nd or 3rd R1-3 at Sandown & Hawkesbury Auto-applied in Bet Slip. Promotional limits apply. Min 6 runners. Fixed odds only. T&Cs apply. Login to UniBet to Claim Promo How does horsebetting.com.au source its racing bonus offers? HorseBetting.com.au has meticulously assessed the premier horse racing bookmakers in Australia, revealing exclusive bonus promotions and specials tailored for thoroughbred enthusiasts on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. These horse racing promotions are a regular feature, exemplifying the unwavering commitment of Australia’s leading horse racing bookmakers. If one bookmaker happens to lack a promotion on a given day, rest assured that another is stepping up with enticing offers within the realm of gallops. For your daily dose of the most lucrative horse racing bookmaker bonuses, HorseBetting.com.au stands as the ultimate destination. Maximise the value of your punting endeavours with bookie bonuses boasting the most competitive horse racing odds for every race. It’s crucial to emphasise that these thoroughbred racing promotions are exclusively designed for existing customers. To access these special promotions and claim the bookmaker’s offers, log in to each online bookmaker’s platform. For those seeking races and horses to leverage their horse betting bookmaker bonus bets, HorseBetting provides a valuable resource with its daily free racing tips. Stay well-informed, adopt strategic approaches, and enhance your overall horse racing experience by capitalising on these exclusive promotions. Horse racing promotions View the full article

Racing Post's Martin Stevens chats with Aidan O'Brien, who praises the achievements of standout young stallion Justify. View the full article

Japan's Crown Pride (Jpn) (Reach The Crown {Jpn}), a winner of the 2022 G2 UAE Derby and last year's G3 Korea Cup, galloped over the dirt track in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in advance of a start in the $20-million G1 Saudi Cup on Saturday. He is one of five Japanese horses in the world's richest race, which will go postward at 8:40 p.m. local time. “We did a 1200m gallop on the dirt track today. He moved and accelerated well. We are happy,” Yohei Kotobuki, a stable representative, said of the G1 Champions Cup runner-up. Also out for a spin, although in his case a canter, was 2023 GI Breeders' Cup Classic second Derma Sotogake (Jpn) (Mind Your Biscuits) on Tuesday morning. The 2023 UAE Derby hero was just a length behind the re-opposing White Abarrio (Race Day) in that Santa Anita contest in November, his most recent race. “He has recovered well from the travel and he is very fresh. Christophe Lemaire will ride his gallop tomorrow,” Masatoshi Segawa, a stable representative, said. There was also a positive bulletin on 2023 Japanese Champion Dirt Horse Lemon Pop (Lemon Drop Kid), who stretched his legs and jogged one lap on the dirt. A winner of both the Listed Mile Championship Nambu Hai and the G1 Champions Cup in October and December, respectively, the 6-year-old entire represents Godolphin and trainer Hiroyasu Tanaka. “He has been getting familiarised with the new surroundings here and has eaten up very well. He cantered nicely and has been the same as how he is at home,” assistant trainer Toshihiko Hokari said. Only fifth to Lemon Pop in the Champions Cup, multiple group winner Meisho Hario (Jpn) (Pyro) has been twice placed at the highest level, to fellow Saudi Cup hopeful and 2023 G1 Dubai World Cup victor Ushba Tesoro (Jpn) (Orfevre {Jpn}) in the G1 Tokyo Daishoten, and to Lemon Pop once again in the G1 February S. last year. Connections reported he cantered 1 1/2 laps over the Riyadh dirt on Tuesday. “He was a bit tired for a few days after his arrival but his condition has recovered a lot and he appears to be back to how he is. He will have a fast gallop on the dirt track tomorrow,” assistant trainer Atsushi Obayashi said. The aforementioned Ushba Tesoro jogged a quarter mile and finished his training with a 1 1/4-mile canter on the dirt at King Abdulaziz Racecourse on Tuesday. “He has been relaxed and getting used to the new surroundings since he has arrived. He has a great balance with his conformation and he looks great,” assistant trainer Masakazu Fukami said. Besides the $20-million big dance, Japan is strongly represented in the undercard races, and GI Belmont S. winner Palace Malice's half-brother Iron Barows (Jpn) (Orfevre {Jpn}) turned in a strong canter on Tuesday, as well. The 7-year-old will compete in Saturday's G3 Longines Red Sea Turf H. over 3000 metres on the grass. “He moved comfortably with lots left in his tank. He felt really good. He really enjoys his life here and he seems fit on the dirt surface even though he is a turf runner,” assistant trainer Shoritsu Kurono said. A trio of Yoshito Yahagi runners were out for a gallop together on Tuesday: G2 Saudi National Bank 1351 Turf Sprint hopeful Bathrat Leon (Jpn) (Kizuna {Jpn}), who is defending his title after taking the race in 2023; Red Sea Turf H. entrant Libyan Glass (Jpn) (Kizuna {Jpn}); and undefeated G3 Saudi Derby runner Forever Young (Jpn) (Real Steel {Jpn}). Both Libyan Glass and Forever Young are first-time travelers. “Libyan Glass travels overseas for the first time in his career and he has been settled because he is with other two horses,” assistant trainer Yusaku Oka said. “He is tuning up for the race and is very well. “He [Bathrat Leon] showed great acceleration in the stretch. Hopefully he keeps good form until the race.” Oka said of dual listed winner Forever Young, “As he did all he needed to before we brought him here, we had not asked him too much today.” The post Japanese Contingent In Fine Form Before The Saudi Cup appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

MGSW First Captain (Curlin-America, by A.P. Indy) has been retired and will stand the 2024 Southern Hemisphere season at Stud Eternamente Rio in Brazil, according to Turf Diario. The 6-year-old, who arrived in Brazil Feb. 9, was acquired by a partnership that includes Stud Enternamente Rio, Stud Red Rafa and Stud H e R. Bred by Bobby Flay, who also campaigned GSW America, the colt brought $1.5 million at the Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Select Sale in 2019. Flay retained a piece of the colt, who was ultimately raced by a partnership including West Point Thoroughbreds, Siena Farm and Woodford Racing. Trained by Shug McGaughey, the chestnut won his first three career starts, including the GIII Dwyer S. and subsequently added an allowance win at Gulfstream and the GIII Pimlico Special S. later in the 2022 season. He also finished second in the GII Suburban S. and third in the GI Jockey Club Gold Cup. He retired with five wins from 11 career starts and earnings of $662,100. The post Dual Grade III Winner First Captain to Brazil appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

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

Every week, the TDN posts a roundup of the relevant Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA) related rulings from around the country. Among this week's rulings, trainer Gerald Brooks has been suspended seven days for a post-race gabapentin positive dating from Sept. 4. The case was resolved without a hearing. Gabapentin is a Class B controlled drug under HISA, and used as an anti-seizure medicine in humans. Brooks was cited in January for a post-race phenylbutazone positive. NEW HISA/HIWU STEWARDS RULINGS The following rulings were reported on HISA's “rulings” portal and through the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit's (HIWU) “pending” and “resolved” cases portals. RESOLVED ADMC VIOLATIONS Resolution Date: 02/20/2024 Licensee: Gerard Ochoa, trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone–Controlled Medication (Class C)–in a sample taken from Unxpected Tiger, who finished second at Tampa Bay on 12/31/23. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312–Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Resolution Date: 02/20/2024 Licensee: Anthony Carango, trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Final decision by HIWU. Explainer: For the presence of Glycopyrrolate–Controlled Medication (Class C)–in a sample taken from Esor, who finished second at Parx Racing on 12/19/23. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312–Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Resolution Date: 02/19/2024 Licensee: Richard Dutrow, trainer Penalty: A fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone–Controlled Medication (Class C)–in an out-of-competition sample taken from Cage Match on 1/12/24. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312–Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Resolution Date: 02/19/2024 Licensee: Arnold Torres, trainer Penalty: A fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Triamcinolone–Controlled Medication (Class C)–in an out-of-competition sample taken from Its Thievery on 1/12/24. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312–Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Resolution Date: 02/19/2024 Licensee: Robert Dibona, trainer Penalty: A fine of $3,000; imposition of 3 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: A possible violation of Rule 3314–Use or Attempted Use of a Controlled Medication Substance or a Controlled Medication Method–on the horse, Surrogate. This was also a possible violation of Rule 4222–Intra-Articular Injections Within Seven (7) Days of Timed and Reported Workout. Resolution Date: 02/15/2024 Licensee: Gustavo Delgado, trainer Penalty: A fine of $3,000; imposition of 3 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: A possible violation of Rule 3314–Use or Attempted Use of a Controlled Medication Substance or a Controlled Medication Method–on the horse, Ocean Vision. This was also a possible violation of Rule 4222–Intra-Articular Injections Within Seven (7) Days of Timed and Reported Workout. Resolution Date: 02/15/2024 Licensee: Gerald Brooks, trainer Penalty: 7-day period of Ineligibility, beginning on February 16, 2024; Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $1,000; imposition of 2 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Gabapentin–Controlled Medication (Class B)–in a sample taken from Breezy Connection, who finished second at Timonium on 09/04/23. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312–Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Pending ADMC Violations Date: 01/07/2024 Licensee: Erin Carpio, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Out-of-competition medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Acepromazine–Controlled Medication (Class B)–in a sample taken from Nazareno on 1/7/24. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 11/11/2023 Licensee: James Watkins, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Xylazine–Controlled Medication (Class B)–in a sample taken from Dennis's Pride, who finished fifth at Fanduel Sportsbook and Horse Racing on 11/11/23. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312–Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). VIOLATIONS OF CROP RULE One important note: HISA's whip use limit is restricted to six strikes during a race. AQUEDUCT Dylan Scott Thomas – violation date Feb 16; $250 fine and one-day suspension GOLDEN GATE FIELDS Catalino Martinez – violation date Feb 16; $250 fine and one-day suspension, 8 strikes SANTA ANITA Juan Hernandez – violation date Feb 18; $250 fine and one-day suspension, 8 strikes Santiago Gonzalez – violation date Feb 18; $250 fine and one-day suspension, 7 strikes OTHER KEY RULINGS The TDN also publishes a roundup of key official rulings from the primary tracks within the four major racing jurisdictions of California, New York, Florida and Kentucky. Here's a primer on how each of these jurisdictions adjudicates different offenses, what they make public (or not) and where. CALIFORNIA Track: Santa Anita Date: 02/16/2024 Licensee: Diego Herrera, jockey Penalty: Three-day suspension Violation: Careless riding Explainer: Jockey Diego Herrera, who rode Zzyzx in the third race at Santa Anita Park on February 15, 2024, is suspended for 3 racing days (February 23, 24 and 25, 2024) for crossing over without sufficient clearance going into the first turn, causing interference; a violation of California Horse Racing Board rule #1699 (Riding Rules – careless riding). Track: Santa Anita Date: 02/17/2024 Licensee: Kyle Frey, jockey Penalty: Three-day suspension Violation: Careless riding Explainer: Jockey Kyle Frey, who rode Ghostly Act in the first race at Santa Anita Park on February 16, 2024, is suspended for 3 racing days (February 24, 25 and March 1, 2024) for failure to make the proper effort to maintain a straight course in the stretch, causing interference, resulting in the disqualification of his mount from second to fourth; a violation of California Horse Racing Board rule #1699 (Riding Rules-careless riding). Track: Santa Anita Date: 02/18/2024 Licensee: Joel Rosario, jockey Penalty: One-day suspension Violation: Participated in designated races out of state Explainer: Jockey Joel Rosario is suspended for 1 additional racing day (February 25, 2024) pursuant California Horse Racing Board rule #1766(g) (Designated Races–participated in designated races out of state on February 18, 2024). The post Stewards and Commissions Rulings – Feb. 13 – Feb. 19 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The $500,000 Delaware Handicap (G2) highlights the $2.75-million stakes schedule at Delaware Park this season. For the first time since 2009, the filly and mare summer classic will be run on a Sunday, July 7, as part of a special festival weekend.View the full article

A New Jersey federal judge's order on Tuesday transferred a class-action lawsuit brought by a group of bettors against trainer Bob Baffert to the Western District of Kentucky, meaning that the nearly three-year-old case will now go before its third different court since 2021. The original federal lawsuit was filed in California. In it, a group of horseplayers alleged they were cheated out of their property by Baffert when his betamethasone-positive trainee, Medina Spirit, crossed the finish wire first in the GI Kentucky Derby and purportedly prevented the plaintiffs from cashing winning tickets on the runner-up. Baffert has denied those allegations, asked for the case to be dismissed, and has stated in court documents that the plaintiffs have twisted their case so far from reality that their alleged misstatements amount to libel. Back on Dec. 22, 2023, the judge handling the case in United States District Court (District of New Jersey) ordered both sides to file letters by Jan. 15, 2024, “if either party wishes to explain why this case should NOT be transferred back to the Central District of California.” But after receiving written rationale from both parties, the judge on Feb. 20 instead mandated that Kentucky was now the proper jurisdiction for the case. “[B]alancing all the factors, this case should be transferred to the Western District of Kentucky,” U.S. District Judge Michael Farbiarz wrote in his 30-page order. “This case, simply put, has virtually nothing to do with New Jersey,” the order continued. “And the remoteness from New Jersey is to the point that personal jurisdiction is questionable here–with implications for both cost [and] the certainty of being able to enforce any eventual judgment. “It is true that the Plaintiffs chose to bring suit in New Jersey [after originally filing in California],” the judge wrote. “But that is less meaningful than is typically the case. This is a putative nationwide class action that has little to do with the state.” Kentucky, the judge wrote, “is where the claim arose” based on being the host state for the horse race in question. “And the federal court in Kentucky has recently resolved a case that is factually similar to this one and involves the Defendants in this case,” the order continued. The original version of the suit that just got transferred was led by Michael Beychok, the winner of the 2012 National Horseplayers Championship. It was filed in California four days after Baffert's May 9, 2021, disclosure that Medina Spirit had tested positive for betamethasone after winning the May 1 Derby. It wasn't until Aug. 22, 2023, that the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission's disqualification of Medina Spirit from the 2021 Derby-which also affirmed the elevation of runner-up Mandaloun as the official winner-was sustained after a long appeals process. The more than 30 class members of the Beychok suit chose the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) Act as a tool to try and collect damages from Baffert, plus his incorporated racing stable. The plaintiffs also sought an order from the judge stating that Baffert must divest himself from the sport. RICO is a sweeping 1970 federal statute initially designed to combat the Mafia. But in a legal sense, it has long since lost its “organized crime” stigma. RICO today is rarely used to go after stereotypical “godfather” figures. Instead, RICO has evolved as a civil litigation component, and is most often asserted by purported victims of white-collar crimes, such as mail and wire fraud. The Beychok class-action complaint was withdrawn from the California federal court on July 22, 2021. One day later, an amended version of it resurfaced in New Jersey. The New Jersey complaint from July 23, 2021, alleged that “[Baffert's] multiple and repeated acts of doping and entering horses into Thoroughbred races, including the Kentucky Derby, constituted racketeering activity.” The separate Kentucky case to which Farbiarz alluded was a different class-action lawsuit initiated against Baffert by another group of horseplayers who alleged negligence, breach of contract, and unjust enrichment because their losing pari-mutuel bets on the 2021 Derby also weren't honored as winners. It was dismissed by a federal judge in Kentucky on July 20, 2023, for failure to state a claim. Farbiarz explained the significance of that dismissed Kentucky case in his order. '[T]he Western District of Kentucky has already resolved, on the merits, a case that is closely similar to this one,” Farbiarz wrote. “There are, in short, fundamental similarities between the Kentucky case and this lawsuit,” Farbiarz continued. “Given the work that has already been invested in the Kentucky case, it would save a good deal of judicial time if this case were sent to Kentucky. “And returning to the same decision-maker is not just a matter of efficiency,” the New Jersey transfer order summed up. “Having the same court handle both cases would help ensure that like cases-and these are very much like cases-are treated alike. That is a fundamental goal of our justice system.” The post Bettors-Vs.-Baffert Suit Transferred to Kentucky appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

It is anyone's race Feb. 24 in the 1 1/16-mile, $600,000 Razorback Handicap (G3) at Oaklawn Park when a deep field of older horses compete for graded stakes glory.View the full article

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

The Delaware Thoroughbred Racing Commission (DTRC) approved the 2024 Delaware Park live racing dates, punctuated by a $2.75 million stakes schedule. The 87th live racing season–featuring 75 days beginning on Wednesday, May 15 and concluding Saturday, Oct. 12–will be highlighted by the $500,000 GII Delaware H. July 7. For the first time since 2009, the Delaware H. will be run on a Sunday, highlighting a festival weekend of racing that includes the $250,000 GIII Robert G. Dick S. on the July 7 undercard. The $300,000 GII Delaware Oaks will kick off the weekend July 6. “We want to carry the positive momentum established last year into this upcoming season,” said Chief Financial Officer Kevin DeLucia. “The horsemen, commission and management have continued working together to ensure competitive, fair and safe racing. We have also been aggressively expanding our wagering menu and finding the right niches to make our signal attractive on the national landscape. It will be challenging to keep moving the needle in a positive direction in the highly competitive Mid-Atlantic market, but our team is eager for the opportunity.” Total live racing handle increased 7.0%, to $152.3 million for the 85-day meet in 2023 from $142.3 million for the 87-day meet in 2022. The daily average handle increased 9.6%, to $1.8 million in 2023 from $1.6 million in 2022. Live racing will be conducted on a Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday weekly format for the majority of the 2024 meet. Nine Friday cards will be added to the schedule: June 7, June 14, Aug. 2, Aug. 9, Sept. 13, Sept. 20, Sept. 27, Oct. 4 and Oct. 11. Live racing is not scheduled on Thursday, July 11. Daily first race post time is set for 12:30 p.m. For the complete 2024 stakes schedule, click here. The post Delaware Approves 2024 Dates, Releases Stakes Schedule appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By John Wollenberg, JD, CPA, and Leonard C. Green, CPA, MBA Editor's Note: Chris McGrath's popular TDN series “Succession” about horse racing-industry businesses passed from one generation to the next sparked this column by Len Green and John Wollenberg. The odds are frightening that only 50% of family businesses that are successful are passed to the second generation. Only 10% are successfully passed on to the third generation. There are many reasons for this and volumes of material have been written on this subject. But few provide you with the answers on how to successfully do it. We are going to give you a strategy and business plan to succeed. We will start by listing: The challenges The strategies Some of the best tools Tax considerations CHALLENGES Structuring a succession plan should evaluate: The current owner's desire to retain control during his or her lifetime and the willingness to transfer interests now or wait until death. Weighing the importance of an income stream if transfers are made now. The skills and qualifications of the next generation. Family dynamics and relationships. Equalizing asset transfers to family members who will not be participating in the business. The welfare of employees and preserving the goodwill that has been built up. A plan to meet the new demands of the business. STRATEGIES Discussions and implementation should facilitate: Assemble a team of both inside and outside experienced people who have expertise in your business and the industry. Compose a business plan with objectives. Provide alternative structures and possibilities for discussion purposes. Hire an appraiser to perform a valuation. Evaluate liquidity needs, including life insurance. Discuss a buy/sell agreement with a professional. CONTENTS OF THE PLAN Benefits of a written plan would include: Provide a blueprint to resolve differences and reach a consensus. Establish transitional timetables, including gifting of interests. Put in restrictions which could substantiate valuation discounts for minority interests, lack of control and limited marketability. ESTATE TAX DEFERRAL In order to alleviate liquidity problems, an attractive provision is available to offer relief from the necessity of a “distress sale” of a business solely to pay estate taxes. By spreading out the period for payment of the liability, the estate tax could be paid from future earnings, enabling the beneficiaries more time to raise funds to pay the estate tax, thereby “keeping the business in the family.” This 14-year elective deferral is available if the decedent owns an interest in a closely held business that exceeds 35% of the adjusted gross estate. The Green Group can work with you to determine whether your estate would be eligible. For more information, contact Len Green at The Green Group at 732-634-5100. The post How to Beat the Odds and Have a Successful Succession of Your Horse-Related Business appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Ten-year-old City Zip gelding C Z Rocket, who was claimed for $40,000 and became one of America's top sprinters, has been retired.View the full article