Wandering Eyes

Wednesday's top tips from the Post's racing teamView the full article

Old Friends founder Michael Blowen and longtime Three Chimneys Farm stallion manager Sandy Hatfield will join together for a special tour of the Old Friends retirement facility in Georgetown Apr. 9. The tour, with a $150 per person cost, will be limited to 20 people. “Old Friends is blessed with, not only legendary horses, but with legendary people within our family,” said John Nicholson, president and CEO of Old Friends. “Our founder Michael Blowen, and longtime Three Chimneys' stallion manager Sandy Hatfield are just such legends. I can't wait for their tour, which is a rare opportunity to have these legends take you on a special journey with many of the equine heroes at Old Friends. “Old Friends is proud to be a part of Thoroughbred racing and these Legend Tours are just the latest way we celebrate the great horses and people in the sport we love,” continued Nicholson. “We look forward to introducing new and different ways, like these Legend Tours, of sharing the story and heritage of horse racing with, not only our sport's old friends, but sharing it with new friends as well.” Blowen, who founded Old Friends in 2003, and recently stepped down as president of the farm, will tell visitors the stories of some of his favorite Thoroughbred retirees on the farm. Hatfield, who has spent most of her life working with stallions, in particular, Kentucky Derby winner and Old Friends retiree, Silver Charm, will share her stories of some of her famous old friends. To reserve a spot on the tour, call the Old Friends office at (502) 863-1775. The post Blowen, Hatfield Team for Old Friends Legends Tour appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Cashel Palace Hotel has stepped in to sponsor the Group 3 Derby Trial S. at Leopardstown on Sunday, May 12. The three-year-old contest, which is run over 10f, has served as an important stepping stone for many Classic aspirants down through the years but had been run without a sponsor after Derrinstown Stud ended its long association with the race in 2021. Leopardstown chief Tim Husbands commented, “We are delighted to welcome Cashel Palace Hotel as the sponsor of the Derby Trial Stakes. Their support and partnership will add a new dimension to this event and further enhance the experience for participants and spectators alike. We would also like to congratulate them for their recently received Michelin Star.” The Derby Trial S. was won last year by the Jessica Harrington-trained Sprewell (Ire). Prior to that, horses like Sinndar (Ire), Galileo (Ire), High Chaparral (Ire), Yeats (Ire), Dylan Thomas (Ire) and Fame And Glory (GB) have landed the race. The post Cashel Palace Hotel To Sponsor Group 3 Derby Trial At Leopardstown appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

After the Group 1 William Reid Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley on Saturday the track will undergo a renovation and will not race again until the new racing season in August. Night racing in the new season commences on AFL Grand Final eve on September 27 and will feature the Group 2 Feehan Stakes (1600m), moved from its traditional date in early September and solidify the race as the only domestic contest that carries a ballot exemption into the Cox Plate. The Feehan Stakes has offered the winner a ballot exemption into the Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m) in October for a number of years, but the Moonee Valley Racing Club feels the race is better placed four weeks out from their major race. Pinstriped won the Feehan Stakes last year before taking on the Cox Plate challenged seven weeks later. And the Club has taken the Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m) from the Cox Plate program and placed it on Grand Final eve to strengthen the program. That move has resulted in the MVRC and Racing Victoria announcing a number of changes to the sprinting program in early spring at Moonee Valley. The Group 1 Moir Stakes (1000m), run on Grand Final eve, has been brought forward to the meeting on September 7, while the Group 2 McEwen Stakes (1200m) has moved from that early September meeting to replace the Manikato Stakes on Cox Plate. RV Executive General Manager – Racing, Matt Welsh it the changes would enhance key feature races across the Moonee Valley’s Spring Racing Carnival.” “We want to ensure that the Moir Stakes and Manikato Stakes draw the best fields they possibly can as elite Group 1 races,” Welsh said. “This restructure is a benefit for owners and trainers wishing to campaign horses here and abroad as part of a cohesive national pattern. “We see enormous growth potential in the AFL Grand Final eve meeting at The Valley as the Club kicks starts its Friday night racing season. “It’s a public holiday, there’s thousands of visitors converging on Melbourne and there is clean air to present an amazing night of racing and entertainment.” As a result of the Feehan Stakes moving to Grand Final eve, the Group 2 Stocks Stakes, for fillies and mares, has been shortened from 1600m to 1500m and will be run as a set-weight and penalties race rather than at weight-for-age. View the full article

When classy four-year-old Chill Chibi (NZ) (Wrote) takes his place in Sunday’s BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m), it will mark a significant achievement for breeder Nicola Chu. Chu, who breeds under the banner of the Hong Kong Breeders Club, is achieving exactly what she set out to do, by producing horses good enough to compete in Hong Kong’s most coveted race. Bred and raised at Highview Stud in New Zealand, of which Chu is a part-owner, the son of Wrote was a winner at his second Hong Kong start when successful over a mile at Happy Valley in February last year. The Danny Shum-trained four-year-old returned after a lengthy absence with an emphatic victory over the same course and distance in November. After completing a hat-trick in his next Class Three test over 1650m a fortnight later, Chill Chibi continued his ascendancy over 1800m by notching his fourth win on the bounce and third in the space of a month. Tested in Class 2 company in December, Chill Chibi finished third but was subsequently found to have a hind limb lameness. Prominent Hong Kong-based breeder Nicola Chu Photo: HKJC Off the scene until the Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m) the four-year-old was one of the eyecatchers of the race, coming from last to finish seventh and he looks certain to relish the 2000m of the Derby. Chu is a shareholder in Highview Stud stallion Wrote, a Grade 1 winning son of High Chaparral, who is making a good impression. He has had three runners to date in Hong Kong for three winners, while he sired his first Group One winner in New Zealand last weekend when Pulchritudinous (NZ) won the New Zealand Oaks (2400m) in emphatic fashion. Wrote was the third leading sire by average at Karaka Book 2 behind popular fellow young sires Ardrossan and Satono Aladdin. Chill Chibi comes from a family that Chu knows well, having raced his dam My Amazing Cool (NZ), a daughter of her Group One performed son of Danehill, Danroad, who also stood at Highview Stud. It is the second-year in succession that Chu has bred a Derby runner. Vice Chair of the Hong Kong Thoroughbred Breeders’ Alliance, Chu also bred Sweet Encounter (NZ) (Toronado), who was seventh in the blue riband race last year. The winner of five of his 22 starts, Sweet Encounter is prepared by John Size and boasts a further seven placings for owner Vicky Tang. Like Chill Chibi, Sweet Encounter was sold as a yearling by Highview Stud and went on to do further education through the New Zealand trials system. Chill Chibi had three trials for Cambridge horseman Ben Foote, while Sweet Encounter finished runner-up in his only trial for Jenna Mahoney. “It is so exciting seeing a number of our New Zealand bred horses making a significant impact in the Hong Kong racing scene,” Chu said. “I will be cheering loudly for Chill Chibi on Sunday and nothing would make me prouder than breeding a Derby winner.” View the full article

Te Akau Racing will hold a strong hand at The Valley on Saturday, with their seven-strong charge being led by their sprinting sensation Imperatriz (I Am Invincible), who will attempt to defend her crown in the Gr.1 William Reid Stakes (1200m). After taking out last year’s edition of the sprinting feature, the Mark Walker-trained mare went on to win a further five consecutive races, including four at elite-level, with her picket fence form line coming to an end last start when runner-up behind Cylinder (Exceed and Excel) in the Gr.1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington. “Imperatriz was very tough running second in the Newmarket Handicap last time, is unbeaten in four starts at Moonee Valley, and hopefully she is able to go back-to-back in the William Reid,” Te Akau Racing principal David Ellis said. Imperatriz will be met in the William Reid by stablemate Skew Wiff (NZ) (Savabeel), while the stable will also be represented at The Valley by a handful of other runners, including Campionessa (NZ) (Contributer) in the Gr.2 Sunline Stakes (1600m), Quintessa (NZ) (Shamus Award) in the Gr.2 Alister Clark Stakes (2040m), Certainly (NZ) (Savabeel) in the Gr.3 Alexandra Stakes (1600m), Mehzebeen (NZ) (Almanzor) in the BM78 2500m Handicap, and Prismatic (NZ) (Savabeel) in the MB84 2040m Handicap. “Quintessa ran a great race for fourth in the Australian Guineas (Gr. 1, 1600m) last start and I think she’ll appreciate getting up in trip,” Ellis said. “The two Waikato Stud fillies (Certainly and Skew Wiff) are both of the highest quality, and Campionessa is one of the gamest mares we’ve got in the stable, so we’re looking forward to seeing how it unfolds on Saturday.” Ellis will be trackside on Saturday and is looking forward to a big day of racing. “Karyn (Fenton-Ellis, wife and Te Akau Racing director) and I are going over to host our owners and while we’re under no illusions about the quality of the fields, we’re excited about being part of it with some good chances,” Ellis said. “It’s a massive day for us and maybe the most stakes runners a New Zealand stable has ever had on a race day in Australia.” Leading buyer for the 18th consecutive year at the Karaka Sales in January, following his notable impact at the Magic Millions Sale on the Gold Coast, Ellis has purchased 50 horses since New Zealand Bloodstock’s Ready To Run Sale last November and spent nearly $16 million. “We based our spend on Australia being the fastest growing and most lucrative racing jurisdiction in the world, and New Zealand prizemoney going ahead in leaps and bounds with the incredible input by Entain in partnering the NZ TAB,” Ellis said. “We’ve still got shares to sell in horses, but overall, the uptake and support by the loyal Te Akau owner base and new owners has been quite overwhelming. “People want to see horse racing flourish in New Zealand, they’re very passionate about it, and given the increase in stakes they’re getting involved in syndication ownership. “We’re really happy with our timing in getting our stable up and running this season in Melbourne, and the training facilities at Cranbourne are absolutely world-class.” View the full article

A likely trip across the Tasman is looming for promising stayer Trust In You (NZ) (Sweynesse). The five-year-old son of Sweynesse put himself on the map over the Christmas Carnival when winning the Stayers Championship Final (2400m) at Pukekohe on Boxing Day before returning to the South Auckland track on New Year’s Day where he was victorious in the Gr.3 Queen Elzabeth II Cup (2400m). He was then sixth when fresh-up in the Gr.2 Avondale Cup (2400m) at Ellerslie in February, and readied for the Gr.2 Auckland Cup (3200m) with a runner-up performance in the Nathans Memorial (2200m) a week prior. Trainers Grant Cooksley and Bruce Wallace were pleased with his sixth placing in the Auckland Cup and are looking at heading to Sydney with their charge with an eye towards next month’s Gr.1 Sydney Cup (3200m) at Randwick. “He has come through the Auckland Cup well,” Cooksley said. “It was a good run, he just got pushed back a bit at the 800m and made up good ground and went a very good race. “He had a few days out after the Cup and has done a bit of work in the last week and he is doing well. We will just see how he is doing next week before we decide on Australia. “If he goes over to Australia, it will be for the Sydney Cup and he may run a week prior in the Chairman’s (Gr.2, 2600m). “It will be a nice race for him, Randwick is a fair bit different than what Ellerslie is. At Ellerslie, you have to be on the pace at the moment, but at Randwick you can come from anywhere.” A trip to Australia could also be on the cards for Group Three winner Sacred Satono (NZ) (Satono Aladdin), with Cooksley eyeing the Queensland Winter Carnival with the son of Satono Aladdin. “Sacred Satono may have a run on the 20th next month at Ellerslie and may then head to Brisbane for the Stradbroke (Gr.1, 1400m), but we will just see how he comes up,” Cooksley said. Meanwhile, the stable’s evergreen galloper Gino Severini (Fastnet Rock) has been retired following his last placed run in the $350,000 Rangitoto Classic (1600m) at Ellerslie earlier this month. The globetrotting gelding commenced his career in his native Ireland where he won the Madrid Handicap (1400m). He then had three unplaced runs in Hong Kong before joining Bruce Wallace’s Byerley Park barn where he has prepared the now 10-year-old initially in partnership with Allan Peard prior to Cooksley joining the business. In all, the son of Fastnet Rock won eight and placed in 20 of his 68 career starts and earned more than $500,000 in prizemoney. His highlights include victories in the Gr.2 Tauranga Stakes (1600m), Gr.2 Japan Trophy (1600m), and Gr.3 Eagle Technology Stakes (1600m), while he also placed in the Gr.1 Windsor Park Plate (1600m), Gr.3 Balmerino Stakes (2050m), Gr.3 J Swap Sprint (1400m), and was twice placed in the Japan Trophy. “He did well and gave his best every time he went out there. He was a good horse,” Cooksley said. “He won a couple of weight-for-age races at Tauranga and he was always thereabouts in Group One races.” View the full article

Group 1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) runner-up Antrim Coast will contest the Group 2 Alister Clark (2040m) at Moonee Valley on Saturday. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) He beat all but glamour filly Orchestral in the Group 1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) at Ellerslie earlier this month and now Antrim Coast will be given his chance to test his talent across the Tasman. Bred by The Oaks Stud, the son of Roc De Cambes races in the blue and white silks of farm principal Dick Karreman, for whom he has been a standout in his three-year-old year. Under the care of Cambridge trainer Stephen Marsh, Antrim Coast has won two of his seven starts this term and secured black-type with his Derby performance. The Oaks Stud General Manager Rick Williams was rapt with his second placed run in the Ellerslie Classic and said that gave the Cambridge-based team the confidence to press on for an Australian campaign. “It (NZ Derby) was a really honestly run race,” Williams said. “We all knew the filly (Orchestral) was better than the rest of us, but I was so pleased that he found the line well. I think ultimately he will be a two-mile horse. “He has bounced through the Derby. We gave him a week off at the farm and he put on so much weight, he certainly hasn’t come to the end of his campaign – he is made of steel this horse.” Antrim Coast will fly to Melbourne this week ahead of making his Australian debut at Moonee Valley on Saturday in the Group 2 Alister Clark (2040m), with his performance dictating the remainder of his Australian campaign. “Saturday will work out how we plan his races from now on and whether we go to South Australia or Queensland. We will get a line on where he sits in the pecking order over there,” Williams said. “Subject to his run on Saturday, we will find a couple of races for him. He is a horse that can handle Heavy tracks right through to Good tracks.” Antrim Coast has been one of a number of quality three-year-olds to carry Karreman’s colours this season, however, a number of them have had their season curtailed by inury. Burn To Shine struck early in spring, winning first-up at Te Rapa before finishing runner-up in the Listed El Roca – Sir Colin Meads Trophy (1200m) and third in the Group 2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m), before trekking south to Riccarton where he won the Group 3 War Decree Stakes (1600m). He was freshened following his ninth placed run in the Group 1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m), but has returned to the paddock after injuring a tendon following his placing over 1400m at Te Rapa last month. “Burn To Shine is out with a tendon injury, so we have had a bit of bad luck with horses getting different injuries and having to be turned out,” said Williams, with $350,000 Karapiro Classic (1600m) placegetter Vera Rose having faced a similar fate. “She (Vera Rose) has got a bit of a knee issue that needs sorted. It is not major but it her three-year-old year is over, but they will all be back.” Fellow The Oaks Stud homebred Harlow Rocks is also enjoying some well-earned time in the paddock, with her three-year-old campaign coming to a close following her 12th placed run in the Group 1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m) at Trentham last Saturday. She had been in pleasing form prior to her Oaks assignment, having finished runner-up to Group One winner Molly Bloom in the Group 2 David and Karyn Ellis Fillies Classic (2000m) at Te Rapa last month before finishing fourth in the postponed Group 2 Lowland Stakes (2100m) at Taupo. “She has come through the Oaks well but she will be turned out for a spell now,” Williams said. “I am not sure a mile and a half is her trip, but we got there and had to run. I think she is a 2000m horse if you take a line on Molly Bloom being the only one to beat her at Te Rapa. “It was a funny race at Taupo, and everything got a bit mucked up with the Lowland Stakes being postponed and it didn’t suit the horse she was and the prep she had. In saying that, Chad Ormsby’s horse (Pulchritudinous) won despite that, but I think they are two different horses – one is an out-and-out stayer and the other is a more brilliant horse.” Meanwhile, The Oaks Stud’s exciting juvenile Savaglee will head to Trentham next month to tackle the Group 1 Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m), the first bonus race for next year’s inaugural $3.5 million The NZB Kiwi (1500m). “Savaglee seems to be much better left-handed, he is unbeaten left-handed,” Williams said. “He has bounced through Auckland. Both of his runs there have been slightly below par. He will go onto the Sires’ at Trentham and we think he is crying out for 1400m. “He has given us every indication that he is a horse that wants to go there and will go better over the extra 200m. “He seems to be getting better and better throughout his two-year-old year.” Horse racing news View the full article

A trip to Sydney could be on the cards for promising stayer Trust In You. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) A likely trip across the Tasman is looming for promising stayer Trust In You. The five-year-old son of Sweynesse put himself on the map over the Christmas Carnival when winning the Stayers Championship Final (2400m) at Pukekohe on Boxing Day before returning to the South Auckland track on New Year’s Day where he was victorious in the Group 3 Queen Elzabeth II Cup (2400m). He was then sixth when fresh-up in the Group 2 Avondale Cup (2400m) at Ellerslie in February, and readied for the Group 2 Auckland Cup (3200m) with a runner-up performance in the Nathans Memorial (2200m) a week prior. Trainers Grant Cooksley and Bruce Wallace were pleased with his sixth placing in the Auckland Cup and are looking at heading to Sydney with their charge with an eye towards next month’s Group 1 Sydney Cup (3200m) at Randwick. “He has come through the Auckland Cup well,” Cooksley said. “It was a good run, he just got pushed back a bit at the 800m and made up good ground and went a very good race. “He had a few days out after the Cup and has done a bit of work in the last week and he is doing well. We will just see how he is doing next week before we decide on Australia. “If he goes over to Australia, it will be for the Sydney Cup and he may run a week prior in the Chairman’s (Group 2, 2600m). “It will be a nice race for him, Randwick is a fair bit different than what Ellerslie is. At Ellerslie, you have to be on the pace at the moment, but at Randwick you can come from anywhere.” A trip to Australia could also be on the cards for Group Three winner Sacred Satono, with Cooksley eyeing the Queensland Winter Carnival with the son of Satono Aladdin. “Sacred Satono may have a run on the 20th next month at Ellerslie and may then head to Brisbane for the Stradbroke (Group 1, 1400m), but we will just see how he comes up,” Cooksley said. Meanwhile, the stable’s evergreen galloper Gino Severini has been retired following his last placed run in the $350,000 Rangitoto Classic (1600m) at Ellerslie earlier this month. The globetrotting gelding commenced his career in his native Ireland where he won the Madrid Handicap (1400m). He then had three unplaced runs in Hong Kong before joining Bruce Wallace’s Byerley Park barn where he has prepared the now 10-year-old initially in partnership with Allan Peard prior to Cooksley joining the business. In all, the son of Fastnet Rock won eight and placed in 20 of his 68 career starts and earned more than $500,000 in prizemoney. His highlights include victories in the Group 2 Tauranga Stakes (1600m), Group 2 Japan Trophy (1600m), and Group 3 Eagle Technology Stakes (1600m), while he also placed in the Group 1 Windsor Park Plate (1600m), Group 3 Balmerino Stakes (2050m), Group 3 J Swap Sprint (1400m), and was twice placed in the Japan Trophy. “He did well and gave his best every time he went out there. He was a good horse,” Cooksley said. “He won a couple of weight-for-age races at Tauranga and he was always thereabouts in Group One races.” Horse racing news View the full article

Frenchman considers taking the Voyage Bubble approach when he rides Beauty Crescent at Sha Tin this SundayView the full article

Group One performer Aquacade has been retired. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Multiple Group-winning mare Aquacade will begin the next phase of her career later this year. Time has been called on the racing days of Dundeel’s daughter with the five-year-old to become a valuable addition to Cambridge Stud’s broodmare band. Trained at Karaka by Lance Noble for breeder-owners Brendan and Jo Lindsay, Aquacade performed up to the highest level with seven victories and six placings and only twice missed a top five finish from 19 appearances. “She has been fantastic and that’s what we’re here for, to try and develop fillies and mares into broodmares and get black type,” Noble said. “To be able to do that with her has provided a great sense of achievement. She was so consistent and has been retired happy and sound. “She could possibly have raced again next season, but she doesn’t have anything left to prove and will make a lovely broodmare.” Aquacade’s career highlights included successes in the Group 2 Avondale Cup (2400m) and the Group 3 Balmerino Stakes (2050m), and gained an elite level credit when third in the Group 1 Zabeel Classic (2050m). “After last season and rightfully so, she went up in the ratings from the bottom of the handicap up to 57, 58 and 59kg against the younger ones coming through that have the weight advantages, especially over ground,” Noble said. “We made a conscious decision at the beginning of this season to see if we could crack a Group One and she got that Group One placing in the Zabeel. “She was really a 2200-2400m horse and maybe lacked that turn of foot to be a 2000m weight-for-age horse, but she acquitted herself really well in those races against some very good horses.” Aquacade is a daughter of the unraced Sea The Stars mare Forest Of Seas and a pedigree that includes international stakes-winning stayers Sea Of Heartbreak, Self Defense, Degas Art and Puncher Clynch. “She took a bit of time to develop and ran third in the Royal Stakes (Group 2, 2000m) as a three-year-old and as a four and five-year-old really came to the party,” Noble said. “I am very happy and satisfied that she has been retired safe and well, she hasn’t been over-raced and with her size, temperament and pedigree, she is going to make a lovely broodmare. “Early on, like most young horses, she had her quirks but the more we did with her the more professional she became and was an easy horse to train.” Meanwhile, promising mare and last-start Rangitoto Classic (1500m) winner Jaarffi will step up in grade at Tauranga on Saturday. “All being well, she’ll run in the Japan Trophy (Group 2, 1600m),” Noble said. “We did look at the Group One (New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes, 1600m), but felt it was a little bit too soon at weight-for-age against seasoned and quality mares. “The Japan Trophy sits better at set weights and penalties, and she gets in on the minimum. She will be better next season, but we will test the waters and hopefully get a bit of black type.” Noble has enjoyed a rewarding 2023/24 with 19 winners, including four at Group or Listed level, with a number of the team now out for well-deserved breaks. “It’s been a fantastic season and will quieten down on the racing front,” Noble said. “We’ll look to the yearlings now who are being broken in and will then come into through the system.” Horse racing news View the full article

Last Saturday, Rosehill Gardens featured Group 1 racing, with multiple Group races littered throughout the program, while the $3.75 million All Star Mile headlined the meeting at Caulfield. In this week’s edition of The Follow Files, we have found three runners that are worth following and throwing into your blackbook with your chosen bookmaker. Eagle Farm Track rating: Good 4 Rail position: +0.5m entire circuit Race 8: Three-Year-Old Handicap (1200m) | Time: 1:11.11 Horse to follow: Press Link (1st) Press Link took his career record to three wins from as many starts after careering away from his rivals in the final 200m over 1200m at Eagle Farm. The Robert Heathcote-trained galloper has won in arrogant fashion at his last two starts over 1100m and 1200m, showing that he has a lot of ability in the process. Even though it appeared as though he wouldn’t pick the leaders halfway down the straight, once Michael Rodd shook him up, the son of Press Statement let down with an explosive turn of foot. When to bet: As a lightly raced three-year-old going into the Brisbane Winter Racing Carnival, there are plenty of options for Heathcote and his team. It is possible that Press Link could target the Listed Daybreak Lover (3YO) and get his first crack at black type level on April 20 at Eagle Farm. Rosehill Gardens Track rating: Soft 6 Rail position: True entire circuit Race 6: Group 3 Maurice McCarten Stakes (1100m) | Time: 1:03.89 Horse to follow: Libertad (2nd) Libertad went into the Group 3 Maurice McCarten Stakes second-up for the campaign, coming off a disappointing last place when fresh in a Benchmark 94 Handicap over 1000m. The Annabel Neasham-trained colt was made to travel three-wide without cover for the entire 1100m journey, but still rallied a strong challenge in the final 200m to finish less than a length off Red Card. Considering how well this son of Russian Revolution ran through the line, a rise in distance to 1200m third-up should suit him perfectly. When to bet: Neasham and her team have Libertad nominated for the Group 1 TJ Smith Stakes and Group 2 Arrowfield 3YO Sprint, with both races being over 1200m. It is expected that Libertad will run in the Arrowfield and take on his own age group again. Race 9: Group 2 Ajax Stakes (1500m) | Time: 1:15.62 Horse to follow: Detonator Jack (3rd) Detonator Jack returned from a three-month spell after an impressive spring campaign with a very good third-place finish in the Ajax Stakes, as the Ciaron Maher-trained gelding seeks to gain a start in the Group 1 Doncaster Mile. After settling behind the speed, the son of Jakkalberry took the lead at the 250m mark and held it until the final 75m before being run over by Democracy Manifest and Territory Express. Second-up, this five-year-old gelding will go very close to winning, if he competes over a similar distance. When to bet: The Doncaster Mile looks to be the target race for Detonator Jack, so it is most likely that he will compete in the Doncaster Prelude on March 30, where he will be extremely hard to beat. Top horse racing sites for blackbook features Latest horse racing tips View the full article

Schooling over fences has brought a new lease on life for Mahoe (NZ) (Alamosa), with the six-year-old gelding having won two of his last three races. Formerly trained by Jon Miller, the son of Alamosa had won three races for the Cambridge horseman before he was bought by Isdale at the start of the year on the advice of leading jumps jockey Shaun Phelan. “I was looking for another jumper to replace Aigne and Shaun Phelan pointed this horse out and said Jon Miller was finishing with him. Shaun suggested to give him a crack because he reckons milers make the best jumpers,” Isdale said. “I took him aboard and we have put him over the jumps and it has turned him around, he has won two of his last three.” Isdale is hoping he can extend that winning sequence to three when he heads to Pukekohe on Wednesday to contest the Auckland Co-op Taxis 2100, for which he is a $2.80 favourite with TAB bookmakers. While pleased with his progress on the flat, Isdale is looking forward to commencing his jumping career in the coming months. “He doesn’t really like wet tracks, but we will try and get his (jumping) ticket and aim him for the maiden at Hastings on a drier track,” he said. “I love jumps racing, it is quite exciting and I always love to have one.” Later on the card, Isdale will line-up promising three-year-old Lucky Bay (NZ) (Sweynesse) in the Ellerslie Events 1600. The son of Sweynesse has placed in two of his three starts to date and is set to head to Trentham next month for the Gr.3 Manawatu Classic (2100m) before a possible trip across the Tasman. “He was unlucky last start (when third over 2200m at Hastings),” Isdale said. “He got a nice run and then all of a sudden he was five lengths behind the second-to-last horse. I thought he had broken down and then he just flew home. “I really wanted him to win last start to have a runner in the (New Zealand) Derby (Gr.1, 2400m), but it wasn’t meant to be. It is good to see the form out of that race has stacked up with Zachery (winner) winning again on Saturday. “I am wanting to see him hit the line well (on Wednesday) and then he will go to the Manawatu Classic. If he were to run a placing in the Manawatu Classic, we will probably look at taking him to Brisbane (for the Queensland Winter Carnival), but whether he stays with me or goes to (Chris) Waller’s (leading Sydney trainer) I am not sure.” Another stable runner that could be destined to head to Queensland is Group Three performer Beebeep (NZ) (Vespa). The four-year-old daughter of Vespa was runner-up fresh-up over 1100m at Trentham earlier this month and is set to head to Tauranga on Saturday where she will contest the Triton Pacific Owens Plate (1200m). “It looks like a good race for her,” Isdale said. “It is not a big field and she will get nice weight relief with Tayla Mitchell set to ride her. It will be a big drop down from the 58kg she carried the other day. “We will just get this race out of the way and then look for a stakes race. She may head to Brisbane all things going well for the Dane Ripper (Gr.2, 1300m), we have just got to get her rating up a little higher over here.” Further south on Saturday, stablemate Funfetti (NZ) (Embellish) will be looking to regain some confidence in the Southern Alps Golden Ticket (1600m) at Riccarton. “She raced two weeks ago down there (Wingatui) and got put through the rail (in the Listed Airfreight Stakes, 1400m), so I have put her back to a (rating) 65 to get her confidence up and then she will go to the NZB Insurance Stakes (Listed, 1600m) in two weeks.” Meanwhile, Isdale has been pleased with the way Is That So (NZ) (Sufficient) has come through his runner-up performance behind Our Echo in last Saturday’s Listed Lightning Handicap (1200m) at Trentham. “He has come through it really well and has gone to the water-walker for a week,” he said. “He went well, the track was probably a touch too wet for him, but I don’t think he would have beaten the other horse. “He backed up two weeks in a row, so he deserves some time off.” View the full article

He beat all but glamour filly Orchestral (NZ) (Savabeel) in the Gr.1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) at Ellerslie earlier this month and now Antrim Coast (NZ) (Roc De Cambes) will be given his chance to test his talent across the Tasman. Bred by The Oaks Stud, the son of Roc De Cambes races in the blue and white silks of farm principal Dick Karreman, for whom he has been a standout in his three-year-old year. Under the care of Cambridge trainer Stephen Marsh, Antrim Coast has won two of his seven starts this term and secured black-type with his Derby performance. The Oaks Stud General Manager Rick Williams was rapt with his second placed run in the Ellerslie Classic and said that gave the Cambridge-based team the confidence to press on for an Australian campaign. “It (NZ Derby) was a really honestly run race,” Williams said. “We all knew the filly (Orchestral) was better than the rest of us, but I was so pleased that he found the line well. I think ultimately he will be a two-mile horse. “He has bounced through the Derby. We gave him a week off at the farm and he put on so much weight, he certainly hasn’t come to the end of his campaign – he is made of steel this horse.” Antrim Coast will fly to Melbourne this week ahead of making his Australian debut at The Valley on Saturday in the Gr.2 Alister Clark (2040m), with his performance dictating the remainder of his Australian campaign. “Saturday will work out how we plan his races from now on and whether we go to South Australia or Queensland. We will get a line on where he sits in the pecking order over there,” Williams said. “Subject to his run on Saturday, we will find a couple of races for him. He is a horse that can handle Heavy tracks right through to Good tracks.” Antrim Coast has been one of a number of quality three-year-olds to carry Karreman’s colours this season, however, a number of them have had their season curtailed by inury. Burn To Shine (NZ) (So You Think) struck early in spring, winning first-up at Te Rapa before finishing runner-up in the Listed El Roca – Sir Colin Meads Trophy (1200m) and third in the Gr.2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m), before trekking south to Riccarton where he won the Gr.3 War Decree Stakes (1600m). He was freshened following his ninth placed run in the Gr.1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m), but has returned to the paddock after injuring a tendon following his placing over 1400m at Te Rapa last month. “Burn To Shine is out with a tendon injury, so we have had a bit of bad luck with horses getting different injuries and having to be turned out,” said Williams, with $350,000 Karapiro Classic (1600m) placegetter Vera Rose having faced a similar fate. “She (Vera Rose) has got a bit of a knee issue that needs sorted. It is not major but it her three-year-old year is over, but they will all be back.” Fellow The Oaks Stud homebred Harlow Rocks (NZ) (Roc De Cambes) is also enjoying some well-earned time in the paddock, with her three-year-old campaign coming to a close following her 12th placed run in the Gr.1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m) at Trentham last Saturday. She had been in pleasing form prior to her Oaks assignment, having finished runner-up to Group One winner Molly Bloom (NZ) (Ace High) in the Gr.2 David and Karyn Ellis Fillies Classic (2000m) at Te Rapa last month before finishing fourth in the postponed Gr.2 Lowland Stakes (2100m) at Taupo. “She has come through the Oaks well but she will be turned out for a spell now,” Williams said. “I am not sure a mile and a half is her trip, but we got there and had to run. I think she is a 2000m horse if you take a line on Molly Bloom being the only one to beat her at Te Rapa. “It was a funny race at Taupo, and everything got a bit mucked up with the Lowland Stakes being postponed and it didn’t suit the horse she was and the prep she had. In saying that, Chad Ormsby’s horse (Pulchritudinous) won despite that, but I think they are two different horses – one is an out-and-out stayer and the other is a more brilliant horse.” Meanwhile, The Oaks Stud’s exciting juvenile Savaglee (NZ) (Savabeel) will head to Trentham next month to tackle the Gr.1 Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m), the first bonus race for next year’s inaugural $3.5 million The NZB Kiwi (1500m). “Savaglee seems to be much better left-handed, he is unbeaten left-handed,” Williams said. “He has bounced through Auckland. Both of his runs there have been slightly below par. He will go onto the Sires’ at Trentham and we think he is crying out for 1400m. “He has given us every indication that he is a horse that wants to go there and will go better over the extra 200m. “He seems to be getting better and better throughout his two-year-old year.” View the full article

What Albury Races Where Albury Racing Club – 16-46 Fallon St, Albury NSW 2640 When Thursday, March 21, 2024 First Race 1:35pm AEDT Visit Dabble Albury Race Club is set to host back-to-back meetings this week, starting with a competitive seven-race program for Albury Mile (1600m) Day. The rail has been placed in the true position throughout the entire circuit, and with some minor showers expected in the lead-up, a Soft 5 surface should be the expectation for participants. All the action is scheduled to get underway at 1:35pm AEDT. Albury Mile Top Tip: Cliff House Cliff House appears perfectly placed second-up in the campaign as he heads towards the $50,000 Albury Mile. The son of Starcraft was sensational through the wire at this course on February 18, simply finding the 1400m too sharp to produce his best. He gets much more suitable conditions on Thursday afternoon, where the sting out of the ground will do wonders for his chances. He is a well-experienced five-year-old now, and with the pace on in this event, watch for Cliff House to be exploding down the centre of the course with Danny Beasley in the saddle. Albury Mile Race 6 – #2 Cliff House (3) 5yo Gelding | T: Tim Donnelly | J: Danny Beasley (56.5kg) Bet with Playup Best Bet at Albury: Duchy Of Cornwall Duchy Of Cornwall has found the minor money in his last five starts, and although he may be a frustrating commodity for punters, it is worth keeping faith in this Class 1 contest. He has a nasty habit of getting too far back in his races, which occurred once again in his most recent effort at Wagga on March 14, before mounting a late charge to find another place cheque for connections. He is drawn to hold a much closer position from stall two on Thursday, and with a bit of luck when the whips are cracking, Duchy Of Cornwall can finally finish best. Best Bet Race 2 – #2 Duchy Of Cornwall (2) 4yo Gelding | T: Tim Donnelly | J: Danny Beasley (59kg) Bet with Neds Next Best at Albury: County Kilkenny County Kilkenny was crowded for room at a crucial stage at Wagga on March 5 and showed plenty of class to only go down by a half-length. The son of Fast Company was first-up after a 17-week spell on that occasion, and the four-year-old gelding should appreciate the soft conditions for his second-up assault. Danny Beasley retains the ride after taking the reins on return, and with barrier five to help find a soft run in transit, County Kilkenny should be right in this Class 1 contest. Next Best Race 6 – #1 Modown (6) 3yo Gelding | T: Tim Donnelly | J: Danny Beasley (59kg) Bet with Picklebet Thursday quaddie tips for Albury Albury quadrella selections Thursday, March 21, 2024 1-2-3-4 5-6-8-11 1-2-3-5-6 1-2-4-5-8-10 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Storm Boy will go into the Group 1 Golden Slipper as the favourite at Rosehill on Saturday. Photo: Racing NSW One of the most anticipated editions of the Group 1 Golden Slipper will headline the 10-race meeting at Rosehill this Saturday afternoon, with a full field of 16 expected to take their place in the 1200m contest. The near $5 million two-year-old feature is headlined by the Magic Millions 2YO Classic winner and undefeated colt from the Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott stable, Storm Boy, who has opened as the clear favourite at +110 with top online racing betting sites. The son of Justify has never looked in trouble or gone close to losing in his four starts, with his Magic Millions triumph being the most impressive win of his short career. Adding to the excitement has been the drama around which jockey will ride which Coolmore-owned horse, as the ownership group will have both Storm Boy and Switzerland in the race. Coolmore’s number one jockey, Ryan Moore, has been booked on the favourite, while James McDonald, who has ridden both horses at their last two starts, will be legged aboard second favourite Switzerland (+350). The Chris Waller-trained colt has beaten jumped every hurdle that he has been faced with and he will join the favourite as the only unbeaten runners in the Slipper. Last start, the son of Snitzel came from behind the leading contenders to win in stylish fashion in the Group 2 Todman Stakes, with McDonald saying post-race that there is very little splitting the top two. Unlike most Golden Slipper fields, this year’s edition appears to be a race between two; however, there is still plenty of quality outside the market leaders. Blue Diamond Stakes winner Hayasugi (+1600) and runner-up Lady Of Camelot (+1000) have to be considered big chances after taking care of the two-year-old ranks in Victoria three weeks ago. Straight Charge (+1000) and Fully Lit (+2000) must been given strong chances, but they have been beaten by the leading contenders throughout their Golden Slipper preparations, which could be detrimental to their confidence. First emergency Espionage (+1400) is considered a genuine winning hope, but needs a scratching within the starting 16 to gain a start. The Golden Slipper is scheduled to jump at 4:40pm AEDT and will be race eight on the Rosehill program. 2024 Golden Slipper Final Field 1. Storm Boy (2) T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott J: Ryan Moore W: 56.5kg F: 1111 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Justify (USA) Dam: Pelican (NZ) +110 -454.55 2. Fully Lit (1) T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott J: Sam Clipperton W: 56.5kg F: 211 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Hellbent Dam: Sunlit +2000 +400 3. Shangri La Express (3) T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bot J: Regan Bayliss W: 56.5kg F: 32×11 Age: 2YO Color: Brown Sex: Colt Sire: Alabama Express Dam: Sent From Above +2000 +400 4. Rue De Royale (14) T: Tony & Calvin McEvoy J: Chad Schofield W: 56.5kg F: 202×2 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Per Incanto (USA) Dam: Urban Royal +20000 +4000 5. Traffic Warden (6) T: James Cummings J: Craig Williams W: 56.5kg F: 18312 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Street Boss (USA) Dam: Efficiently +3300 +660 6. Straight Charge (9) T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott J: Tim Clark W: 56.5kg F: 21x1x Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Written By Dam: Matryoshka +1000 +200 7. Switzerland (7) T: Chris Waller J: James McDonald W: 56.5kg F: 111 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Snitzel Dam: Ms Bad Behavior +350 -142.86 8. Bodyguard (10) T: Peter & Paul Snowden J: Mark Zahra W: 56.5kg F: 41×1 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: I Am Invincible Dam: Tumooh +3300 +660 9. Dublin Down (13) T: Tony & Calvin McEvoy J: Hugh Bowman W: 56.5kg F: 10×12 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Exceedance Dam: Dublin Lass +7000 +1400 10. Coleman (4) T: Matt Laurie J: Kerrin McEvoy W: 56.5kg F: 301×1 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Pierata Dam: Sboog +3300 +660 11. Holmes A Court (8) T: Peter & Paul Snowden J: Tom Marquand W: 56.5kg F: 132 Age: 2YO Color: Chestnut Sex: Colt Sire: Capitalist Dam: Menagerie +5000 +1000 12. Prost (11) T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott J: Adam Hyeronimus W: 56.5kg F: 21×3 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Snitzel Dam: Samarmeteors +5000 +1000 13. Hayasugi (16) T: Clinton McDonald J: Jamie Kah W: 54.5kg F: 111×5 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Filly Sire: Royal Meeting (IRE) Dam: China Road +1600 +320 14. Lady Of Camelot (5) T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott J: Blake Shinn W: 54.5kg F: 21×4 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Filly Sire: Written Tycoon Dam: Miss Debutante +1000 +200 15. Manaal (17) T: Michael Freedman J: Jason Collett W: 54.5kg F: 12×1 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Filly Sire: Tassort Dam: Red Lodge (USA) +3300 +660 16. Enneza (15) T: Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman J: Damian Lane W: 54.5kg F: 42×12 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Filly Sire: Exceed and Excel Dam: Sweet Sherry +7000 +1400 17 (1E). Espionage (12) T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott J: Tommy Berry W: 56.5kg F: 52×1 Age: 2YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Zoustar Dam: In Times of War +1400 +280 Horse racing news View the full article

Australian handler is looking forward to seeing his charge step up in distance in front of a bumper crowd at Sha Tin this SundayView the full article

The world’s richest two-year-old race, the Golden Slipper Stakes (A$4.92 million, 1200m), is set for a thrilling showdown at Rosehill Gardens this Saturday. Unbeaten colt Storm Boy is top elect in 2024 Golden Slipper Stakes betting this weekend. Photo: Steve Hart. A capacity field of promising juveniles has been accepted, with all eyes on the undefeated colt Storm Boy. Undefeated in all four starts, Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott‘s Storm Boy sits atop the Golden Slipper field and betting markets ($2.20 at Ladbrokes). He aims to become the first horse since Dance Hero (2004) to complete the coveted Skyline Stakes – Golden Slipper double. The Justify colt has a prime inside draw (barrier 2) and champion jockey Ryan Moore in the saddle. Waterhouse, a Golden Slipper legend with seven wins, holds a strong hand in the race with a total of seven runners in partnership with Bott. Switzerland ($4.60), trained by Chris Waller and ridden by James McDonald, poses a significant threat to Storm Boy’s dominance. This unbeaten Snitzel colt is fresh off a victory in the Todman Stakes and seeks back-to-back Golden Slipper wins for Waller after his 2023 success with Shinzo. Lady Camelot ($12), the Waterhouse-Bott stable’s best filly hope, is well drawn in barrier 5 with Blake Shinn aboard. She finished a close second in the Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes last time out in late February and looks to become the first filly winner since Fireburn (2022) to win the Slipper. Hayasugi ($15), the history-making Blue Diamond Stakes winning filly, also deserves attention despite a challenging outside draw (barrier 16). See the complete Golden Slipper Stakes final field and barrier draw below, while he latest betting odds are available here from Ladbrokes. 2024 Golden Slipper Stakes Field No Last 10 Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight Probable Weight Penalty Hcp Rating 1 1111 STORM BOY Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Ryan Moore 2 56.5kg 2 112 FULLY LIT Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Sam Clipperton 1 56.5kg 3 11×23 SHANGRI LA EXPRESS Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Regan Bayliss 3 56.5kg 4 42×202 RUE DE ROYALE (NZ) Tony & Calvin McEvoy Chad Schofield 14 56.5kg 5 21381 TRAFFIC WARDEN James Cummings Craig Williams 6 56.5kg 6 2x1x12 STRAIGHT CHARGE Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Tim Clark 9 56.5kg 7 111 SWITZERLAND Chris Waller James McDonald 7 56.5kg 8 1×14 BODYGUARD Peter & Paul Snowden Mark Zahra 10 56.5kg 9 421×01 DUBLIN DOWN Tony & Calvin McEvoy Hugh Bowman 13 56.5kg 10 1×103 COLEMAN Matt Laurie Kerrin McEvoy 4 56.5kg 11 231 HOLMES A COURT Peter & Paul Snowden Tom Marquand 8 56.5kg 12 3×12 PROST Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Adam Hyeronimus 11 56.5kg 13 25×111 HAYASUGI Clinton McDonald Ms Jamie Kah 16 54.5kg 14 4×12 LADY OF CAMELOT Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Blake Shinn 5 54.5kg 15 1×21 MANAAL Michael Freedman Jason Collett 17 54.5kg 16 21×24 ENEEZA Peter G Moody & Katherine Coleman Damian Lane 15 54.5kg 17e 1×25 ESPIONAGE Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Tommy Berry 12 56.5kg Table Credit: Racing Australia. This page and the written content within it were partially generated using AI or automated technology and edited and verified by our editorial team. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. The post Golden Slipper Stakes 2024: Undefeated Storm Boy Leads Strong Field appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

Imperatriz headlines the Group 1 William Reid Stakes field at Moonee Valley this Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Pat Scala/Racing Photos) The Group 1 William Reid Stakes will headline proceedings at Moonee Valley on Saturday afternoon, with 11 runners accepting for the time-honoured weight-for-age feature. After finishing in first and second in the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap at Flemington last start, Imperatriz (-133.33) and Cylinder (+320) dominate the market as two of the three runners under double figures. Although the Mark Walker-trained mare was beaten by Cylinder in the Newmarket down the Flemington straight, the daughter of I Am Invincible was arguably as impressive as the winner, considering she had to give the colt 6kg in the weights. As the William Reid is a weight-for-age contest, Imperatriz will be the beneficiary of a 5.5kg weight swing with her nearest rival and she will return to The Valley, a track that she is unbeaten at from four starts. The James Cummings-trained colt is the obvious danger to the star mare, but the difference in weight and the fact that this will be his first start at Moonee Valley, makes this clash much tougher for the impressive Newmarket Handicap winner. Outside of the top two in the market, there are three runners coming through the Group 1 Oakleigh Plate, with the likes of King’s Gambit (+1000), Queman (+1400) and Hypothetical (+2500) accepting for the 1200m race. Interestingly, online bookmakers have marked King’s Gambit, who finished seventh in the Oakleigh Plate, shorter than the other two runners, even though Queman defeated Hypothetical in a narrow finish to the Group 1 feature four weeks ago. Ciaron Maher’s runners Bella Nipotina (+650) and I Am Me (+1200) are also given strong chances and they sit on the third and fifth line of betting. 2024 William Reid Stakes Final Field 1. The Astrologist (9) T: Leon & Troy Corstens J: Declan Bates W: 58.5kg F: 3759x Age: 7YO Color: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Zoustar Dam: Aquada +4000 +600 2. The Inferno (8) T: Cliff Brown J: Jake Noonan W: 58.5kg F: x044x Age: 7YO Color: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Holy Roman Emperor (IRE) Dam: Spina Rosa +8000 +1200 3. Queman (4) T: Shane & Cassie Oxlade J: Harry Coffey W: 58.5kg F: 11×71 Age: 5YO Color: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Mint Lane (USA) Dam: Langreen +1400 +215 4. Johnny Rocker (11) T: Nick Ryan J: Rhys McLeod W: 58.5kg F: 172×4 Age: 4YO Color: Chestnut Sex: Horse Sire: Jukebox Dam: Margene +10000 +1500 5. Imperatriz (10) T: Mark Walker J: Opie Bosson W: 56.5kg F: 21×11 Age: 5YO Color: Bay Sex: Mare Sire: I Am Invincible Dam: Berimbau -133.33 -909.09 6. Bella Nipotina (3) T: Ciaron Maher J: John Allen W: 56.5kg F: 54×51 Age: 6YO Color: Chestnut Sex: Mare Sire: Pride of Dubai Dam: Bella Orfana +650 +100 7. I Am Me (2) T: Ciaron Maher J: Ben Melham W: 56.5kg F: x2216 Age: 5YO Color: Bay Sex: Mare Sire: I Am Invincible Dam: Mefnooda +1200 +180 8. Queen Of The Ball (7) T: Michael Freedman J: TBC W: 56.5kg F: 70×51 Age: 4YO Color: Bay Sex: Mare Sire: I Am Invincible Dam: Miss Debutante +8000 +1200 9. Hypothetical (6) T: Anthony & Sam Freedman J: Michael Dee W: 56.5kg F: 24×12 Age: 5YO Color: Bay Sex: Mare Sire: Pride of Dubai Dam: Fitna +2500 +380 10. Cylinder (1) T: James Cummings J: TBC W: 56kg F: 16×05 Age: 3YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Exceed And Excel Dam: Circular +320 -222.22 11. King’s Gambit (5) T: Peter & Paul Snowden J: TBC W: 56kg F: 8x13x Age: 3YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: I Am Invincible Dam: Sultry Feeling +1000 +150 Horse racing news View the full article

The initial announcement of the closure of Golden Gate Fields left industry stakeholders to question what their next steps would be. The roller coaster of emotions comes to a head March 21 as the CHRB allocates the remainder of 2024 racing dates.View the full article

Imperatriz ridden by Opie Bosson wins the 2023 Moir Stakes at Moonee Valley Racecourse. (Photo by Pat Scala/Racing Photos) The Moonee Valley Racing Club is set to ignite the 2024 Spring Racing Carnival with an electrifying revamp, featuring a Group 1 extravaganza on the first Saturday in September and a thrilling Friday Night Lights Season Launch on the eve of the AFL Grand Final. Kicking off the Friday Night Lights series on September 27, racing enthusiasts can anticipate the adrenaline-pumping action of the Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m) and the Group 2 Feehan Stakes (1600m) under the dazzling lights. Rescheduled to align with the Cox Plate (2040m), the Feehan Stakes promises to be a pivotal lead-up event, offering contenders a golden opportunity to secure a coveted spot in Australia’s premier race. Returning to its AFL Grand Final Eve slot, the Manikato Stakes adds to the anticipation, drawing upon the immense success of previous editions. The allure of Friday night racing at The Valley is undeniable, with its unique blend of top-tier competition, entertainment, and intimate setting continually captivating audiences. Following the opening night, racing enthusiasts can mark their calendars for two more exhilarating Friday night fixtures on October 4 and Cox Plate Eve on October 25. Spring at The Valley kicks off in grand style on Saturday, September 7, with the prestigious Moir Stakes (1000m) setting the stage for high-octane racing action. The strategic reshuffling of key events like the Moir Stakes and Manikato Stakes earlier in the season enhances the pathway for elite sprinters, seamlessly integrating with the national racing landscape. Further enhancing the Carnival experience, adjustments include the Group 2 McEwen Stakes (1000m) joining Cox Plate Day festivities on October 26, while the Group 2 Stocks Stakes on September 27 will see a distance and format modification to elevate its competitive appeal. With these exciting updates, the Moonee Valley Racing Club is primed to deliver an unforgettable Spring Racing Carnival brimming with world-class competition and entertainment. Horse racing news View the full article

What Sandown Hillside Races Where Sandown Racecourse – 591-659 Princes Hwy, Springvale VIC 3171 When Wednesday, March 20, 2024 First Race 2:30pm AEDT Visit Dabble Sandown’s Hillside track is gearing up to host metropolitan racing this Wednesday afternoon. Weather predictions suggest a possibility of rain overnight on Tuesday, with scattered showers expected to persist throughout Wednesday. The rail will be positioned 9m out across the entire circuit, with the action slated to commence at 2:30pm AEDT. Best Bet at Sandown: The Shaper It took the judge several minutes to split The Shaper and Quickster in a tight photo finish at the Sandown Lakeside 1300m on March 6, and despite not getting the chocolates on that day, The Shaper looks set to go one better. The three-year-old gelding will relish the step up to 1400m, considering the way he hit the line last time out. From barrier six, Damian Lane will position him wherever he pleases with a touch of cover, and if he runs anywhere near what he produced against Quickster, The Shaper should be breaking maiden ranks at the third time of asking. Best Bet Race 1 – #5 The Shaper (6) 3yo Gelding | T: Anthony & Sam Freedman | J: Damian Lane (59kg) +100 with Neds Next Best at Sandown: Donegal Donegal is set to drop back from Group 3 company at Flemington, back to a BM70 where she is set to appreciate the drop in grade. The American Pharoah was simply outclassed and found the going a bit too firm for her liking, so the forecast rain and class drop should suit her perfectly. With plenty of speed engaged over the 1400m, the race shapes perfectly for the three-year-old filly to storm home from the rear of the field. With Celine Gaudray’s claim getting Donegal in with just 57.5kg on her back, Donegal will prove too hard to hold out in the second leg of the quaddie. Next Best Race 6 – #4 Donegal (10) 3yo Filly | T: Ben, Will & JD Hayes | J: Celine Gaudray (a1.5) (59kg) +400 with Playup Best Value at Sandown: Auspirit Having finished third in a similar race that she lines up in on Wednesday on March 6, Auspirit can find her way to the winner’s stall from a handy draw. The Australia progeny was forced to sustain a long run from the rear of the field and peaked on her run in the shadows of the winning post. She stays at the 2400m for this assignment, and from barrier five under John Allen, she can hold a mid-field spot with cover. That was her first crack at the distance, so with the miles in her legs this deep into her campaign, Auspirit presents great value with horse racing bookmakers. Best Value Race 4 – #8 Auspirit (5) 5yo Mare | T: Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young | J: John Allen (57.5kg) +900 with Picklebet Sandown Hillside Wednesday quaddie tips – 20/3/2024 Sandown quadrella selections Wednesday, March 20, 2024 3-7-9 1-6-7 4-5-8-13 5-7-8-12-15 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Horse Racing on Tuesday, March 19 will feature three meetings in Australia. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the top bets and the quaddie numbers for the meeting at Hawkesbury. Tuesday Racing Tips – March 12, 2024 Hawkesbury Racing Tips 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 March 19, 2024 check out our guide to the best online racing betting sites. More horse racing tips View the full article

Explore a multitude of captivating racing promotions offered by horse racing bookmakers on Tuesday, March 19. Immerse yourself in the thrill with generous bonus back offers, elevating your betting experience. Delve into these complimentary promotions from top-tier online bookmakers to maximise your betting opportunities. The top Australian racing promotions for March 19, 2024, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions Odds Drift Protector If the price at the jump is bigger than the price that you took, we will pay you out at the bigger odds Eligible customers. T&C’s apply. Login to Bet365 to Claim Promo Place a 4+ leg multi, if one leg fails Bonus Back up to $50 Applies to your first eligible 4+ leg multi each day. Paid in Bonus Cash. Picklebet T&Cs apply. Login to PickleBet to Claim Promo BoomBet Daily Race Returns Use your daily Race Returns to back a runner in ANY RACE you want* and if your horse doesn’t win but finishes in the specified positions, you get your stake back as a bonus bet. 18+ Gamble responsibly. Can be used across any race and code unless specified in customer’s BoomBox. Fix odds, win bets only. Max bonus $50. Login to BoomBet to Claim Promo Daily Trifecta Boosts Boost your winnings on Trifectas by 10%. Thoroughbreds only. T&Cs apply. Login to UniBet to Claim Promo How does horsebetting.com.au source its racing bonus offers? HorseBetting.com.au meticulously assesses leading Australian horse racing bookmakers, revealing exclusive thoroughbred bonus promotions for March 19, 2024. These ongoing offers underscore the dedication of top horse racing bookmakers. In the realm of horse racing betting, when one bookmaker isn’t featuring a promotion, another is stepping up. Count on HorseBetting.com.au as your go-to source for daily rewarding horse racing bookmaker bonuses. Enhance your value with competitive odds and exclusive promotions tailored for existing customers. Easily access these offers by logging in to each online bookmaker’s platform. For valuable insights into races and horses to optimise your bonus bets, trust HorseBetting’s daily free racing tips. More horse racing promotions View the full article

Observations on the European Racing Scene turns the spotlight on the best European races of the day, highlighting well-pedigreed horses early in their careers, horses of note returning to action and young runners that achieved notable results in the sales ring. Tuesday's Observations features the half-sibling to Dalham Hall stallion G1SW-Fr Territories (Ire). 15.05 Compiegne, Mdn, €27,000, 3yo, f, 7fT MONTEMESOLA (FR) (Kingman {GB}) is the latest foal out of Taranto (GB) (Machiavellian) to debut for Godolphin and Andre Fabre, who enjoyed some big days with her son Territories (Ire) (Invincible Spirit {Ire}). Successful in the G1 Prix Jean Prat and second in the 2000 Guineas, the relative of Machiavellian's Street Cry (Ire) and the brilliant Shamardal has proven a useful stallion at Dalham Hall. The post Half to Territories Starts at Compiegne appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article