Wandering Eyes

Woodbine announces its stakes schedule for the 2024 Thoroughbred racing season, highlighted by King's Plate Day Aug. 17 and Woodbine Mile Day Sept. 14.View the full article

The University of Kentucky Equine Analytical Chemistry Laboratory is under investigation following the departure of Dr. Scott Stanley as director of the lab.View the full article

The GII Davona Dale S., run last Saturday at Gulfstream, was all about the return of Eclipse Award winner Just F Y I (Justify). But she was scratched with a fever, delaying her 3-year-old debut. At Aqueduct, Jody's Pride (American Pharoah) won the Busher S., picking up enough points to guarantee her a spot in the GI Kentucky Oaks. It will be a relatively quiet weekend for the horses on the road to the GI Kentucky Oaks. The GIII Santa Ysabel at Santa Anita will be headlined by Kinza (Carpe Diem). She looks like the best 3-year-old filly in training, but will not be allowed to run in the Oaks because she is trained by Bob Baffert. Here's a look at the fourth installment of our Kentucky Oaks Top 10: 1) TARIFA (f, Bernardini–Kite Beach, by Awesome Again) O/B-Godolphin (KY); T-Brad Cox. Lifetime Record: 'TDN Rising Star', GSW, 4-3-0-0, $278,925. Last start: WON Feb. 17 GII Rachel Alexandra S. Ky Oaks Points: 50. Next Start: GII Fair Grounds Oaks, FG, Mar. 23 or GI Ashland S., Kee, Apr. 5 Tarifa will have one more prep before the Kentucky Oaks and if she passes that test she will likely be the favorite come the first Friday in May. Trainer Brad Cox still hasn't decided between the GII Fair Grounds Oaks or the GI Ashland S. She has had her first workout since her win in the GII Rachel Alexandra S. presented by Fasig-Tipton, breezing a half-mile at the Fair Grounds Mar. 3 in :49.80. Considering that the Rachel Alexandra was her stakes debut, this filly is good now and figures to only get better for Cox. 2) JODY'S PRIDE (f, American Pharoah–Jody's Song, by Scat Daddy) O-Parkland Tbreds & Sportsmen Stable; B-Mr. Steve Weston (Ky); T-J Abreu. Lifetime Record: MSW & GISP, 4-3-1-0, $590,250. Last start: WON Mar. 2 Busher S. Kentucky Oaks Points: 65. Next Start: GIII Gazelle S., AQU, Apr. 6. The connections of Jody's Pride, the runner-up in the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies, called an audible at the line of scrimmage and withdrew from the Davona Dale in order to run in the Busher S. at Aqueduct. It was a smart move. They knew they'd be the headliner against a weak field of competitors and that it was a good spot to pick up easy Oaks points. It worked out perfectly as she splashed her way over a sloppy track to win by 2 1/4 lengths with Jose Lezcano aboard. It was the third win in the race over a five-year span for trainer Jorge Abreu. She didn't have particularly good Beyer numbers coming into the race and, though she did improve, her Beyer was an 80. That means she's going to have to run faster in upcoming races. They will stay in New York and run next in the GIII Gazelle S. Her 65 Oaks points puts her at No. 1 on that list. 3) JUST F Y I (f, Justify–Star Act, by Street Cry {Ire}) O/B-George Krikorian (Ky); T-Bill Mott. Lifetime Record: Ch. 2yo filly, GISW, 3-3-0-0, $1,317,750. Last start: WON Nov. 3 GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies. Kentucky Oaks Points: 40. Next Start: TBD. Things had gone perfectly for this daughter of Justify through her championship campaign in 2023 and early 2024. She was primed for her return in the Davona Dale, but came down with a fever, forcing trainer Bill Mott to scratch her. Normally, that would be a minor setback, but Just F Y I will now likely go into the Kentucky Oaks with just one prep. That could be a problem. “Her temperature is back to normal,” Mott said. “She looks bright and is eating well. Three races are possible if she recovers well, the Gulfstream Park Oaks, the Fantasy or the Ashland.” A high-quality filly, but she can't afford to have another setback. 4) KOPION (f, Omaha Beach–Galloping Ami, by Victory Gallop) O-Spendthrift Farm; B-Tall Oaks Farm (Ky); T-Richard Mandella. Sales history: $270,000 yrl '22 KEESEP. Lifetime Record: GSW, 3-2-1-0, $116,600. Last start: 2nd Feb. 10 GIII Las Virgenes S. Ky Oaks Points: 20. Next Start:GIII Santa Ysabel S., SA, Mar. 9 Kopion is in an odd spot. She's not the best 3-year-old filly based in Southern California. Kinza is. But Kopion is California's top threat for the Kentucky Oaks. That's because Kinza is trained by Bob Baffert and will not be allowed to start in the Oaks. She's also not the best 3-year-old filly in the Richard Mandella barn. Tamara (Bolt d'Oro) is. But she has been sidelined and won't be making it to Churchill Downs. According to the Santa Anita notes team, Kopion, a daughter of Omaha Beach will, face off against Kinza again in Saturday's Santa Ysabel S. In some respects, a second-place finish will seem like a win. 5) POWER SQUEEZE (f, Union Rags–Callmethesqueeze, by Awesome Again) O-Lea Farms, LLC; B-Forging Oaks Farm (KY); T-Jorge Delgado. Sales history: $50,000 yrl '22 KEESEP; $90,000 2yo '23 OBSAPR. Lifetime Record: MSW, 5-3-1-0, $188,650. Last start: WON Feb. 10 Suncoast S. Kentucky Oaks Points: 20. Next Start: GII Gulfstream Park Oaks, GP, Mar. 30. The real test for this filly will come in the GII Gulfstream Park Oaks, the final Kentucky Oaks prep run in Florida. The connections have been running her in non-graded races and she has come through, winning the Cash Run S. at Gulfstream and the Suncoast S. at Tampa Bay Downs. How good is she? We don't know yet. Sold for just $90,000 at last year's OBS June sale. She is trained by Jorge Delgado, who is not well known on the national scene, but is winning at a 30% clip on the year. For his career, his winning percentage is 22%. 6) INTRICATE (f, Gun Runner–Complex Analysis, by Distorted Humor) O-Bradley Thoroughbreds, Laura Leigh Stable, Scot Estes & Cambron Equine, LLC; B-LBD Stable, LLC (Ky); T-Brendan Walsh. Sales history: $200,000 yrl '22 KEESEP; $280,000 2yo '23 OBSAPR. Lifetime Record: GSW, 4-2-1-0, $362,180. Last start: 2nd GII Rachel Alexandra S. Kentucky Oaks Points: 35. Next Start: GII Fair Grounds Oaks, FG, Mar. 23 Brendan Walsh will be looking to become the first trainer to win back-to-back runnings of the Kentucky Oaks since Wayne Lukas. Lukas won the 1990 Oaks with Seaside Attraction and the 1989 Oaks with Open Mind. Walsh enjoyed a terrific year last year with Pretty Mischievous (Into Mischief), who raised her profile in her Oaks win and went on to win the 3-year-old filly championship. Intricate has more to prove before she can be compared to her illustrious stablemate, but there's no reason why she won't have a similar year. Took a bit of a hit when second behind Tarifa in the Rachel Alexandra, but she ran well and was beaten by a top-class filly. 7) LESLIE'S ROSE (f, Into Mischief–Wildwood Rose {Ire}, by Galileo {Ire}) 'TDN Rising Star' O-Whisper Hill Farm; B-John D. Gunther & Eurowest Bloodstock Services (Ky); T-Todd Pletcher. Sales history: $1,150,000 yrl '22 KEESEP. Lifetime Record: 'TDN Rising Star', GSP, 3-2-0-1, $89,950. Last start: 3rd Mar. 2 GII Davona Dale S. Kentucky Oaks Points: 15. Next Start: TBD. A $1.15-million purchase at Keeneland September, this daughter of Into Mischief faced her biggest challenge to date in the Davona Dale S. The results were mixed. She didn't run terribly in what was her stakes debut. She finished third as the 3-10 favorite and was beaten 2 1/4 lengths. The race came after she posted big Beyer numbers in her maiden win and in an allowance race. Trainer Todd Pletcher reports that her next start will either be in the Ashland or the Gulfstream Park Oaks. She deserves one more chance, but a defeat in her next start would mean the bloom is off this rose. 8) WEST OMAHA (f, West Coast–Birthday Bash, by Medaglia d'Oro) O/B-Gary & Mary West Stables (Ky); T-Brad Cox. Lifetime Record: SW, 4-2-2-0, $203,000. Last start: 3rd in Feb. 24 GIII Honeybee S. Kentucky Oaks Points: 40. Next Start: TBD. Brad Cox is always loaded with talent in the 3-year-old filly division. It looks like Tarifa is his best prospect, but her stablemate West Omaha is still in the mix. After a win in the Silverbulletday S. presented by Fasig-Tipton, she disappointed when third in the GIII Honeybee. S. at Oaklawn as the 11-10 favorite. A little bit on the erratic side, she wins every other race. There can't be any excuses next time…she needs a major win to prove she has what it takes to win the Kentucky Oaks. 9) LEMON MUFFIN (f, Collected–Pelt, by Canadian Frontier) O-Aaron Sones; B-Mr & Mrs Theodore R Kuster & Collected Syndicate (KY); T-D Wayne Lukas. Sales history: $20,000 yrl '22 KEESEP; $140,000 2yo '23 OBSAPR. Lifetime Record: GSW, 6-1-4-0, $305,250. Last start: WON Feb. 24 GIII Honeybee S. Kentucky Oaks Points: 50. Next Start: GIII Fantasy S., OP, Mar. 30. The remarkable story of Hall of Famer Wayne Lukas just keeps going and going. He's now 88, but has shown the world he's still more than capable of competing at the highest levels of the sport and against the very best trainers. He's also bold enough to do what few other trainers would. Prior to her win in the Honeybee, Lemon Muffin was still a maiden after five starts and had never run beyond six furlongs. On paper, she looked to be up against it in the Honeybee but scored the upset at 28-1. Was it a fluke? We'll find out in her next start. Having won the 2022 Oaks with Secret Oath (Arrogate), Lukas will be out to win his second Oaks in three years. 10) FIONA'S MAGIC (f, St Patrick's Day–Mollie's Magic, by Factum) O/B-Stonehedge, LLC (FL); T-Michael Yates. Lifetime Record: GSW, 5-3-2-0, $250,910. Last start: WON Mar. 2 GII Davona Dale S. Kentucky Oaks Points: 60. Next start: GII Gulfstream Park Oaks, GP, Mar. 30. When the entries came out for the Davona Dale, Fiona's Magic was completely overshadowed by Just F Y I and Leslie's Rose. But when the dust cleared, Just F Y I had been scratched and Leslie's Rose didn't live up to her billing. That left a void and it was filled by this Florida-bred daughter of St. Patrick's Day (Pioneerof the Nile). She was bred by and is owned by Marilyn Campbell's Stonehedge Farm South, the Florida Breeder of the Year in 1997, 2013, and 2016. Trainer Michael Yates is not well known outside of Florida, but he has won the Davona Dale in back-to-back years. His 2023 winner was Dorth Vader (Girvin). The post The Kentucky Oaks Top 10 for Mar. 8 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

by Frank Drucker, on behalf of the Lederman family There can't possibly be another track announcer as unique as Larry Lederman. Hell, there can't possibly be another human as unique as Larry Lederman. Lawrence Brian Lederman died Mar. 5, at his home in East Windsor, New Jersey, weeks after his 67th birthday. That Larry survived more than a dozen years with an inoperable brain tumor (winning that game of under/over) was a testament to his acerbic wit, unyielding faith, biting sense of humor and a shrewdness/stubbornness to realize the multitudes who loved him wanted him around (let's not forget his many medical friends). A dear friend described Larry as 'a gentle and generous soul. His approach to the cancer treatment was to take it as far as he could, which is why he was able to sustain so long after the passing of his beloved wife and daughter.' …and he brought pies to those who were taking care of him. Born and raised in Manhattan, Larry caught the track bug early, even before sharing a stand-up microphone with some guy named Robin Williams. He was a three-decade-plus Harness/Thoroughbred announcer extraordinaire at New Jersey's Atlantic City Race Course, Freehold Raceway and Garden State Park, plus an in-demand guest at more venues than this space permits. His calls were clear, concise, comical and, above all, correct. …then, there were the voices. Larry interjected so many spot-on impressions, and dropped so many names into the course of a race, you'd swear it was a fire hazard having that many people in the booth. His Jackie Mason was so good, Jackie Mason wasn't sure if he, himself was indeed Jackie Mason. The silver screen took notice, recruiting Larry to be the off-camera track announcer in 1993's 'A Bronx Tale.' There was commercial voice-over work as well, but it was his equine passion, and his compassion toward others, that made Larry Larry. As was mentioned, Larry was predeceased by his wife, Jodi, and their daughter, Leslie. Larry is survived by his brother, Alan, son, Scott and grandson, Cayden LoBianco. Listing his extended family, both in and out of racing (shout-outs to the Christian Harness Horsemen's Association and the Meadowlands) would take way too long. Here's the irony…anyone who tries to be the next Larry Lederman would be nothing more than a poor imitation of someone who never did a poor imitation. While Larry's services are private, those who desire honoring him might consider a donation to the Christian Harness Horsemen's Association or a cancer- or hospice-related charity. The post Larry Lederman, 67, Dies appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Anchored by the 165th running of the King's Plate, Woodbine's 2024 stakes schedule features 38 graded races, four of them Grade I events. The track's stakes schedule this year is missing the GI Canadian International, which was put on hiatus, “after review and consideration of industry and logistical challenges,” according to a Woobine press release. In another change to the track's traditional line-up of stakes, the $750,000 GI E. P. Taylor S. will be moved up three weeks and will be run on a Sept. 14 card which also includes the $1-million GI Woodbine Mile, $500,000 GI Johnnie Walker Natalma S. and $500,000 GI bet365 Summer S. The $1-million King's Plate will be run Aug. 17, while the $500,000 Woodbine Oaks will be held July 20. The Oaks is the first leg of the Canadian Triple Tiara, which is completed by the Aug. 10 $250,000 Bison City S. and Sept. 8 $250,000 Wonder Where S. The Canada Day Racing Festival will be held June 29. The stakes-filled card includes the GII Highlander S., GII Nassau S., GIII Dominion Day S., GIII Selene S. and GIII Marine S. To view the entire 2024 Thoroughbred stakes schedule, click here. The post King’s Plate Highlights Woodbine’s 2024 Stakes Schedule appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The 10th edition of the Thoroughbred Breeders' Association National Hunt Breeders' Awards, sponsored by Goffs, will be held on Monday, May 20, the eve of the Goffs Doncaster Spring Store Sale. Doncaster's Hilton Garden Inn has been selected for the awards show, with Nick Luck signed on to host again. The event celebrates the achievements of British-based breeders and British-bred horses across the 2023-24 National Hunt season. During the event there is a champagne reception, and dinner is followed by the awards ceremony. A total of 14 awards will be presented, including the Queen Mother's Silver Salver. Simon Cox, chairman of the National Hunt committee and TBA trustee said, “We are very grateful to Goffs for their ongoing support of this event, as well as the individual award sponsors. We are looking forward to celebrating the event's 10-year anniversary in May and when you look at the list of previous winners, the quality of horses that British breeders have and continue to produce really stands out. The evening will be a celebration of this season's achievements, as well as a nod to past winners. “I would encourage not only breeders, but trainers, agents and owners who are attending the Goffs Spring Store Sale to make sure that they add the awards evening into their diary and secure their tickets.” Tickets are available for £65 until midnight on Mar. 31, and will be priced at £70 from Apr. 1. To purchase tickets and for more information, please visit the TBA website's events page. The post TBA NH Breeders’ Awards Night Scheduled For May appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance has been named the official charity partner of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association's National Horseplayers Championship, which will take place at the Horseshoe Las Vegas Hotel and Casino Mar. 14-17. Throughout the weekend, TAA will have a booth set up where horseplayers are encouraged to stop by and learn more about accredited aftercare. Branded merchandise will be available in exchange for a donation and there will be an opportunity to donate and enter for a chance to win various prizes. Winning prizes include a table for four at Maryland Million on Oct. 1, a private tour of Old Friends Equine Retirement with Michael Blowen, or exclusive TAA merchandise. The TAA will also be on-site for NTRA's Last Chance First Chance NHC qualifier, which is held the Thursday of the event. The post TAA Named Official Charity Partner of NTRA NHC appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Lightweight Australian jockey ends wait for first Hong Kong victory, saluting aboard $41 long shot Courier Magic on Wednesday nightView the full article

The G3 Greenham S. at Newbury on Saturday, April 20, has been identified as a likely starting point for Alyanaabi (Ire) (Too Darn Hot {GB}) as he prepares to embark on his three-year-old campaign. Trained by Owen Burrows, Shadwell's Alyanaabi proved himself a smart juvenile in 2023 when he won the G3 Tattersalls S. at Newmarket before going on to fill the runner-up spot behind City Of Troy (Justify) in the G1 Dewhurst S. over the same course and distance. City Of Troy is a short-priced favourite to maintain his unbeaten record when, all being well, he lines up in the G1 Qipco 2000 Guineas back at Newmarket on Saturday, May 4, but Burrows is not shirking the rematch should Alyanaabi come through his preparation for the opening Classic of the season in good shape. “I'm very pleased with him,” Burrows said of the talented colt. “He's done well [over the winter] and we've just started faster work with him. We might give him a run [in a Guineas trial]. If he goes anywhere he'll probably go to the Greenham at Newbury. It just sort of makes sense as it's just up the road for us and luckily he had a couple of runs at Newmarket last year, so he handles the Rowley Mile well by the look of it. “We're a long way off and, like most people, we've not been able to do much on the grass as yet. It would be nice for it to dry out a little bit so we can get a bit of work on the grass into him, but we're happy that he might just go to Newbury and have a run before the Guineas. City Of Troy is the standout at the minute, but you can't run away from one and we'd like to think that we'll be up there with a few of the others, so we shall see.” Burrows has a second entry for the 2000 Guineas in the shape of Deira Mile (Ire), last seen finishing fourth in the G1 Futurity Trophy S. at Doncaster in October, but the trainer considers it unlikely that the son of Camelot (GB) will take his chance at Newmarket. “I'll be honest, I've got him in the English Derby and the French and the Irish [Derbys] and we've just put him in the Guineas in case for whatever reason he doesn't stay,” Burrows added. “I'd be amazed if he doesn't because that's all he did in the Futurity and obviously that was over a mile in heavy ground. “The Guineas entry is just a speculative entry, but the owner was happy to cover all bases and he's going to be treated like a Derby horse, who will start over a mile and a quarter at the beginning of April and then we'd be expecting to hopefully look at a Derby trial with him after that.” The post Alyanaabi Likely to Put Classic Credentials to the Test in Greenham appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The TDN's popular annual series 'Mating Plans, presented by Spendthrift,' continues today in a conversation with Rob Tribbett, General Manager of Fred Hertrich's Watercress Farm. Comic City (8, City Zip–Comic Marvel, by Distorted Humor) will be bred to Olympiad. Comic City is a City Zip mare from a top Juddmonte family. Olympiad is the total package. He is a beautiful horse by a top sire, he was a Saratoga 2-year-old old winner himself over some fantastic horses, then showed the ability to consistently dominant at the top levels at four. Dance Awhile (6, Curlin–Dance Quietly, by A.P. Indy) will be bred to Not this Time. This is a young Curlin mare from a terrific family. Not This Time is off to an amazing start at stud, the team at Taylor Made has done a great job getting him mares, and his performance is incredible. He is an ideal sire for a young mare that we have high hopes for. Delightof the Nile (5, Pioneerof the Nile–Delightfully, by Indian Charlie) will be bred to Liam's Map. This is a filly we bred and recently bought back. She is a beautiful filly out of a favorite mare of ours. Sometimes matings don't have to be too hard. She is a half-sister to the very talented Dr Ardito that we bred, a New York stakes winner and graded-placed son of Liam's Map. We have had great success with Liam's Map, breeding Grade I winner Juju's Map, and we love him to get a mare started. Desert Tempest (4, American Pharoah–Stormy B, by Cherokee Run) will be bred to Twirling Candy. Another new mare to the fold, this is a young American Pharoah who displayed some ability on the track. We have been very fortunate with Twirling Candy, breeding a pair of Grade I winners by him. She is from a family that has shown the ability to consistently get stakes horses, and Twirling Candy is the best sire in Kentucky to get your mare going. Giant Win (13, Giant's Causeway–Win's Fair Lady, by Dehere) will be bred to Good Magic. Giant Win is the dam of Grade I winner Pinehurst, by one of our favorite broodmare sires, Giant's Causeway. Good Magic is a sire we have been a supporter of since the beginning. We love the speed and determination that his foals exhibit. They always show up and love their job. This is a great type-to-type mating that hopefully produces another Grade I-winning 2-year-old. Laughing Matters (9, Medaglia d'Oro–Hearty Laugh, by Distorted Humor) will be bred to Mage. Another homebred mare, she is the dam of the super impressive Saratoga MSW winner last year Sugar Hi, and then sold a More Than Ready colt for $310,000 last September. Mage's performance in the spring of his 3-year-old year was super impressive, he was willing to fight every fight and not back down. When I went to see him, I was blown away. We really love his sire and Mage is a great version of his father. More Respect (14, More Than Ready–Search and Seizure, by War Chant) will be bred to Constitution. She is the dam of multiple graded-placed High Opinion from one of our favorite families. We have been involved with Constitution since he went to stud and have so much respect for what he has accomplished. He has demonstrated what great stallions do–improve their mares and sire winners at various distances and surfaces. Nagambie (11, Flatter–Charming N Lovable, by Horse Chestnut {SAf}) will be bred to Uncle Mo. The dam of Juju's Map visits Uncle Mo this year. He keeps producing at the top level and we are excited for a colt or filly from her by Uncle Mo. She sold a really impressive Not This Time last year and has a Gun Runner we are really excited about for 2024. Tulira's Star (12, Congrats–Tulira, by General Assembly) will be bred to Forte. Tulira's Star is a graded-stakes placed filly in Saratoga, and has already produced the good Mullikin, a son of Violence. We are excited about breeding to Forte, his 2- and 3-year-old form was very impressive and he is a great individual. Zero to Sixty (7, American Pharoah–Cat Moves, by Tale of the Cat) will be bred to McKinzie. Zero to Sixty is a young mare for us, she was a super impressive Saratoga first-time out winner herself, going short on the turf, and she is out of the sprint Grade I-winning Cat Moves. We are breeding her to McKinzie, who is a sire we were in love with from the beginning. Similar to the mare, he is out of a top-class speed mare himself, as his dam won the Alicibiades. Everything we are hearing from Ocala gives us a lot of confidence in the horse. The post Mating Plans, Presented by Spendthrift: Watercress Farm appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The two newcomers to the stallions ranks at Haras de Bonneval, Vadeni (Fr) and Erevann (Fr), have both had their first mares scanned in foal, the operation announced on Wednesday. Trained by Jean-Claude Rouget and carrying the colours of the Aga Khan, Vadeni was among the leading three-year-olds in Europe in 2022 when his wins included the G1 Prix du Jockey Club at Chantilly and G1 Eclipse S. at Sandown. He also filled the runner-up spot behind Alpinista (GB) (Frankel {GB}) in the G1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe on his final start of the campaign. Vadeni is set to receive 10 mares from the Aga Khan Studs in his debut season, including Candara (Fr) (Barathea {Ire}), the dam of the Group 1-placed Candarliya (Fr) (Dalakhani {Ire}), as well as the Group 1 winners Ridasiyna (Fr) (Motivator {GB}) and Shareta (Ire) (Sinndar {Ire}). G2 Prix Daniel Wildenstein winner Erevann is also set to receive 10 mares from the homebred broodmare band, including the G1 Hong Kong Vase winner Daryakana (Fr) (Selkirk), already the dam of the G1 Prix Ganay winner Dariyan (Fr), who has moved from Haras de Bonneval to Haras du Mont Goubert for 2024. Over in Ireland, Capital Stud announced on Wednesday that new recruits Castle Star (Ire) and Authorized (Ire) have also had their first mares confirmed in foal. “We're delighted with how Castle Star has been received and he is proving exceptionally fertile,” Capital Stud's Ger O'Neill said of the G3 Marble Hill S. winner. “Fast sons of Starspangledbanner at stud are a scarce commodity and one of the few others there has been, The Wow Signal, only sired a handful of foals but managed to get a Classic winner in Coeursamba among them. We're very excited about Castle Star, providing access to the Danehill line which is becoming more and more scarce, and we think he offers tremendous value standing at €5,000.” Derby winner Authorized–who is perhaps best known as the sire of Tiger Roll (Ire), one of the most famous jumps horses of the modern era–is also reported to have taken everything in his stride as he stands his first season at Capital Stud in 2024, having arrived from Turkey in January. O'Neill added, “Authorized has settled in great here at Capital Stud. He's a very quiet horse and is lovely to deal with. We had been told he's slow in the shed, and it's taking him about an hour to cover one mare, but he's doing it well. He's getting his mares in foal, that's the most important thing.” The post First Mares in Foal for New Stallion Recruits at Haras de Bonneval appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Former Australian champion sire and influential shuttle stallion Exceed And Excel (Aus) (Danehill), described as “an amazing horse from day dot”, has been retired from stud duties by Darley at the age of 23. The announcement came on the eve of the 20th anniversary of the sprinter's victory in the G1 Newmarket H. at Flemington. After that win for owners Nick Moraitis and Alan Osburg, he was bought by Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum as a stallion prospect and made one final start for Tim Martin in the July Cup in the UK. Exceed And Excel was crowned champion sprinter in Australia in 2003/04, with seven wins from 11 career starts, six of which came at Group level, including the G2 Todman S. Since those days he has compiled a comprehensive record at stud both in his native Australia and during shuttle stints at both Dalham Hall Stud in England and Kildangan Stud in Ireland. “We priced him at A$50,000 in his first season (at stud) and that was aggressive back then. He was immediately very popular, he covered a really good book first year and they sold very well,” said Darley Australia's Head of Stallions Alastair Pulford. “His first crop was absolutely outstanding so he really announced himself as a stallion immediately. Exceedingly Good won the first two-year-old race of the season at Flemington and we thought, 'We're in business here'. “A few months later he quinellaed both the divisions of the Blue Diamond Preludes. He got the Blue Diamond winner in his second crop, Reward For Effort, who went on to a career at stud himself. “His sixth crop was an exceptional crop; we sent a lot of high-class mares of our own to him that year. The level of mares he was getting was high and that crop included the Golden Slipper winner Overreach, Guelph and Sidestep.” One of the few reverse shuttlers to properly make a mark in Europe, Exceed And Excel's northern hemisphere Group/Grade 1 winners include Margot Did (GB), Excelebration (Ire), Outstrip (GB) and Mischief Magic (Ire). Most recently he was represented by a British Classic winner when the homebred Mawj (Ire) won last year's 1,000 Guineas for Godolphin and Saeed Bin Suroor. He is also the broodmare sire of Derby winner Anthony Van Dyck (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) and, through Outstrip, features as the grandsire of Melbourne Cup winner Gold Trip (Fr). Bred by the Ascot Breeding Partnership, Exceed And Excel is a son of Patrona (Lomond) and was bought for A$375,000 at the 2002 Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale. As he embarks on his retirement he is the sire of 18 Group/Grade 1 winners worldwide and is the only Australian-bred horse to have sired more than 200 stakes winners.The elite group of seven stallions to have achieved that feat is completed by his own sire Danehill, Sadler's Wells, Galileo (Ire), Dubawi (Ire), More Than Ready and Deep Impact (Jpn). Along with the aforementioned Anthony Van Dyck, Exceed And Excel's record as a broodmare sire in Europe is extended by the Group 1 winners Ten Sovereigns (Ire) (No Nay Never) and Vandeek (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}). His sons remaining at stud in Ireland include Cotai Glory (GB), Bungle Inthejungle (GB) and Kuroshio (Aus). Godolphin Australia's bloodstock manager Jason Walsh also paid tribute to the horse. He said, “He's been the most reliable source of early speed for so many seasons in both hemispheres, and his effect on the breed, and certainly on our organisation, globally has been profound. “The other thing that makes him remarkable is the number of seasons he would have shuttled consecutively, just amazing.” “He's been a pleasure to have around, from a personality perspective he's a true gentleman and has been a statesman in our stallion complex for so long. He's got some outstanding young stock coming through from some of our best-performed young mares.” The post Exceed And Excel Retires After ‘Journey of Excellence’ appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Marroni winning the Group 3 Manawatu Cup (2250m). Photo: Grant Matthew (Race Images) Owners Alastair Lawrence and John Rattray, of Bonneval fame, have had success sending horses to Waipukurau trainer Simon Wilson over the last few years and they are hoping that continues with their Group Three winner Marroni. Wilson had previously been entrusted with Scutar and Vidiano for the partnership, with the former posting three of his four victories under Wilson’s care, while Vidiano also tasted success from the Central Hawke’s Bay barn. Wilson’s rural, boutique stable environment has proven to be a successful recipe in the past for Lawrence, Rattray, and their group of owners, and they are hoping it can help reinvigorate the racing career of Marroni. The seven-year-old son of Makfi has posted seven wins and nine placings from his 33 starts to date for trainer Andrew Forsman, having also been in the care of former training partner Murray Baker in his formative years. His highlights include victory in the Group 3 Manawatu Cup (2250m) and placings in the Group 2 Easter Handicap (1600m), Group 2 Japan Trophy (1600m), and Group 3 Sellwood Stakes (2000m). He was last sighted on raceday at Sandown last May and has been given a long, slow build-up for his debut run for Wilson at Trentham. The Hawke’s Bay trainer said he is pleased to be entrusted with another runner for the ownership group and is hopeful of a strong showing this weekend. “I have had a few horses for the owners in previous years. He (Marroni) is in the twilight of his racing career and they thought a different environment may help reinvigorate him,” Wilson said. “He has been a very good horse. I don’t know what the future holds for him, but we will see what happens.” Marroni readied for Saturday’s assignment with a 1200m trial at Foxton last month where he was runner-up behind stakes performer Semper Magico. “I still don’t know a lot about him, but he trialled nicely enough for where he was in his preparation,” Wilson said. “He has been in work for a while now, so he is ready to start.” Marroni was set to carry 60kg this weekend but will get some weight relief courtesy of apprentice jockey Ciel Butler’s two-kilogram claim. “Ciel Butler will ride him on Saturday to take a few kilos off, which in his first start back will be a big benefit to him hopefully,” Wilson said. Marroni has drawn gate three for Saturday and Wilson is looking forward to getting a line on his charge against a handy field, which includes Group One winner He’s A Doozy, Group One performer Chase, Group Three winner Aljay, dual stakes winner Soldier Boy, Group Two performer Duncan Creek, and Group Three performer Sumi. “He likes to be in just behind the pace, just a bit better than midfield, so that should work out nicely for him from that draw,” Wilson said. “It is a nice field, there are some well-performed horses in there. We will just see how he goes and take it from there.” Horse racing news View the full article

Velocious will contest the Group 1 Sistema Stakes (1200m) at Ellerslie on Saturday. Photo: Race Images Stephen Marsh’s immediate focus is on Ellerslie this Saturday with stable star Velocious, but he’s also got an eye on a following juvenile prize. The Cambridge trainer is upbeat about her chances in the Group 1 Sistema Stakes (1200m) and, all going well, a Central Districts venture awaits the filly, with the trip offering massive future benefits. Velocious has won three of her four starts and the precocious daughter of Written Tycoon has ticked all the boxes since her dominant victory in the Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m). “She had a little break after that and has done very well since, her trial the other day (at Cambridge) topped her off nicely,” Marsh said. “She had her final gallop this (Wednesday) morning and everything looks bang on track for her.” Safely through Saturday, the Group 1 Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) at Trentham on April 6 is an attractive option, as it is the first of the bonus races associated with the inaugural running of next year’s NZB Kiwi (1500m). “I think we will certainly be looking at that, she’s thriving and there will be a nice gap between races for her,” Marsh said. “The Manawatu Sires’ is part of the $1 million bonus for the Kiwi, so it’s all on the radar.” Velocious spearheads a quartet of feature race chances for the stable on Saturday, with El Vencedor and Skyman in the Group 1 New Zealand Stakes (2000m) and Nest Egg in the Group 2 Auckland Cup (3200m). El Vencedor has enjoyed a lucrative campaign, highlighted by success in the Group 3 Eagle Technology Stakes (1600m) and he has also finished runner-up in the Group 1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) and third in the Group 2 Rich Hill Mile (1600m). At his most recent appearance, the son of Shocking was a game fourth in the Group 1 Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m) and will head into new distance territory at Ellerslie. “As long as he relaxes nicely in his first go over ground he should be fine and we thought we’d give him a go at the end of his preparation,” Marsh said. “He’ll go out for a long spell afterwards, he’s bred to get the 2000m but he’s often been a bit keen. He has been so consistent this time in, so he deserves his chance.” Skyman was an encouraging fifth in the Thorndon in his first appearance for the stable since relocating from Chris Waller’s Sydney operation and had excuses when out of the picture last time out in the Group 1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m). “He didn’t get any favours and after jumping okay he got pushed back into a bad spot and was okay late,” Marsh said. “I think it was a run to forget and he has come on well since.” Proven stayer Nest Egg will relish a return to the ultimate flat trip in the Auckland Cup after proving his staying prowess in the spring when a close second in the Group 3 New Zealand Cup (3200m). Following a break after Riccarton, he has been unplaced in three lead-up runs but Saturday’s distance brings him right back into contention. “He is desperate for the two miles and he’ll obviously run it better than most and he can certainly turn his form around,” Marsh said. Of his other runners at Ellerslie, an in-form son of Tavistock is expected to give another top account of himself. “I really like the way the Financier is going and he should be hard to beat again,” Marsh said. The four-year-old has made his way into the top grade after consecutive wins at Matamata and Te Rapa. Horse racing news View the full article

What Moonee Valley Races Where Moonee Valley Racecourse – 1 McPherson St, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039 When Friday, March 8, 2024 First Race 5:45pm AEDT Visit Dabble Moonee Valley will be the destination for night racing this Friday, with a nine-race program set down for decision. With warm weather forecast all week for Melbourne, the track is expected to stay in the Good range for the whole meeting. The rail will go back into the true position for the entire circuit, with racing set to kick off at 5:45pm AEDT. Best Bet at Moonee Valley: Midtown Boss Midtown Boss has been beaten in his last two starts over 1100m at Caulfield in Saturday metropolitan grade. The Matt Laurie-trained gelding now drops back to Benchmark 78 level, while he gains the services of Mark Zahra and draws a nice barrier (2). Zahra will settle Midtown Boss behind the speed in the one-one position, and if he gets even luck from the 400m, he should be winning. Best Bet Race 8 – #4 Midtown Boss (2) 4yo Gelding | T: Matt Laurie | J: Mark Zahra (60kg) +130 with Playup Next Best at Moonee Valley: Martial Eagle After looking like the winner at the 100m mark last start, Martial Eagle from the Charlotte Littlefield yard was narrowly beaten by Roaring Engine over 2400m at Sandown. With another run under his belt, he should be ready to go over 2500m now. With Jye McNeil in the saddle, the son of Adlerflug should be able to settle midfield off the rail from barrier five before getting into clear air in the final 400m to make his run. Next Best Race 5 – #7 Martial Eagle (4) 6yo Gelding | T: Charlotte Littlefield | J: Jye McNeil (55kg) +280 with Picklebet Next Best Again at Moonee Valley: Cattrall Cattrall was an impressive winner at Sale on February 18, running home nicely to break her maiden at the fourth time of asking. That run suggests the step up from 1106m to 1200m should be no issue, and from barrier four, Mark Zahra should be able to settle just behind the speed. With even luck around the home turn, Cattrall can record back-to-back wins in the second race of the evening. Best Value Race 2 – #8 Cattrall (4) 3yo Filly | T: Anthony & Sam Freedman | J: Mark Zahra (59kg) +900 with Neds Friday quaddie tips for Moonee Valley races Moonee Valley quadrella selections Friday, March 8, 2024 1-2-7-8 1-3-5-10 4-7-8 1-2-4 Horse racing tips View the full article

Lucky With You has banked HK$18.09 million across his career. Frankie Lor will be hoping it is a case of the third time’s a charm for Lucky With You in Sunday’s HK$13 million Group 1 Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup (1400m) at Sha Tin. Lucky With You heads into the second leg of the Hong Kong Speed Series after a pair of Group 1 second placings. The gelding is one of two entrants for Lor, alongside the Group 3-winning Healthy Happy. “He’s (Lucky With You) good and he trialled last week – he trialled good. Andrea Atzeni rode him on Monday and he is happy. He’ll have one more gallop on Thursday morning,” Lor said. Lucky With You is by Artie Schiller and surprised at odds of +3600 when runner-up to Lucky Sweynesse in the 2023 HK$26 million Group 1 Hong Kong Sprint (1200m) at Sha Tin last December. “He’s very consistent and it still looks like he can improve a little bit,” Lor said. “He’s a six-year-old, so we just need to ensure he’s fit. He’s only had a few runs over 1400 metres and he finished second once, so I think the distance is ok for him.” Healthy Happy is a five-time winner in Hong Kong, including twice over Sunday’s course and distance at Group 3 level.He landed the HK$4.2 million Group 3 Celebration Cup Handicap (1400m) first-up this season under Alexis Badel. “1400 metres is his best distance. We gave him a little break to wait for this race as he’s getting older,” Lor said. Healthy Happy is a seven-year-old. He claimed the 2021 Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m). Happy Together has risen impressively to prominence this season with four wins, including the HK$4.2 million Group 3 January Cup Handicap (1800m) at Happy Valley earlier this year. He returns over that race’s distance at Sha Tin in Class 2 this weekend. “He’s going well. The pace was too slow last time and he carried a big weight but he still finished strong,” Lor said. The five-year-old was luckless in the HK$4.2 million G3 Centenary Vase Handicap (1800m) two runs ago. Harry Bentley has nine wins from the past eight fixtures and is chasing a hat-trick of wins aboard Watch Buddy at Happy Valley on Wednesday night. “He’s a horse who is in fantastic form. He’s been ultra-consistent throughout his career, obviously he’s going up again in the weights, but he couldn’t be coming into the race better,” Bentley said. The four-year-old lines up in the Class 3 Kwoon Chung Bus Cup Handicap (1200m), this time under top-weight of 134lb and against eight rivals. “There are a few factors counting against him this time. He’s been a horse that’s been quite fortunate with his draws in the past and starting from gate nine this time makes life a little bit harder, especially with more weight on his back,” Bentley said. The Rothesay gelding has only drawn a barrier wider than five on one occasion. The 31-year-old jockey has 20 wins this season from 176 rides. “Things are going really, really good and I couldn’t be happier with the form that I am in at the moment and I have some nice rides coming up, so I just hope I can keep that momentum and I’ll be very happy,” Bentley said. Horse racing news View the full article

What Randwick Guineas Where Royal Randwick Racecourse – Alison Rd, Randwick NSW 2031 When Saturday, March 9, 2024 Prizemoney $1,000,000 Distance 1600m Status Group 1 Conditions Set weights 2023 winner Communist (8) | T: Michael Freedman | J: Zac Purton (56.5kg) Visit Dabble The three-year-olds take centre stage in the Group 1 Randwick Guineas (1600m), with a strong field of 11 set to fight it out in the $1 million feature at Royal Randwick this Saturday. Nine of the 11 runners engaged are coming through the Group 2 Hobartville Stakes (1400m) a fortnight ago, while early favourite Militarize is looking to build on his runner-up effort in the Group 2 Apollo Stakes (1400m) against the older horses. 2024 RANDWICK GUINEAS ODDS Militarize opened as short as +110 with some bookmakers after his scintillating run in the Apollo Stakes, but you can get +130 about him at Bet365. Celestial Legend was sensational when bounding away from his rivals in the Hobartville and finds himself on the second line of betting at +320. Tom Kitten (+600) has shown steady improvement throughout the campaign, while the Garry Portelli-trained Encap ([rm-geo_odds val=9]) will be attempting to go one better after finishing second in the traditional lead-up. The Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott-trained pair of Les Vampires (+1200) and Ganbare (+1800) lead the chances at double-figure odds. 2024 RANDWICK GUINEAS SPEED MAP There should be a solid tempo throughout the 1600m journey, with Les Vampires likely to utilise his early speed from barrier two. Stable companion Ganbare (5) shouldn’t be far away and will stride forward under Tim Clark. Militarize maps to find the one-one from stall four, while Ceolwulf (1) will be ridden up to hold a position in behind the speed along the rail. Queensland raider Fukubana (3) should get a lovely run one off the rail mid-field, while key chances Celestial Legend (11), Encap (10) and Tom Kitten (8) may have a tricky task finding cover throughout the trip. Continue reading for HorseBetting’s top selections and $100 betting strategy for the 2024 Randwick Guineas. RANDWICK GUINEAS 2024 PREVIEW & FORM Militarize must be considered the one to beat after an eye-catching return behind Fangirl in the Apollo Stakes. He was no competition for Fangirl under weight-for-age conditions but impressed when matching motors with the likes of Think It Over, who went on to frank the form in the Group 1 Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m) last Saturday. He maps perfectly from barrier four, and with James McDonald in the saddle for the first time, Militarize will take a power of beating in the Randwick Guineas. It is worth having a small stake on the John O’Shea-trained Cafe Millennium, as online bookmakers appear to be offering massive overs at +10000 odds. He was only even first-up in the Hobartville but had a torrid run in transit, being forced to turn widest of the 12 gallopers. He’ll be getting back again, but as the 1600m is a more suitable trip for the son of Not A Single Doubt, he will be doing his best work late. Tom Kitten was a frustrating watch for followers when pulling his way towards the rear of the field second-up. He was always going to be prepared for a third- and fourth-up assault this preparation, so if you can forgive that effort, the Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) winner is sure to be a major player in this. Celestial Legend, Encap and Les Vampires all have strong claims and can make an impact in the concluding stages. RANDWICK GUINEAS 2024 SELECTIONS & BEST BETS Selections: 1 MILITARIZE 10 CAFE MILLENNIUM 2 TOM KITTEN 3 CELESTIAL LEGEND $100 betting strategy $90 win #1 Militarize @ +130 with Bet365 $10 win #10 Cafe Millennium @ +10000 with Neds Horse racing tips View the full article

Jimmysstar (NZ) (Per Incanto) won’t contest Saturday’s Gr.3 Shaftsbury Avenue at Flemington, with connections opting instead to head to the Gr.3 Horsepower Newcastle Stakes on Friday. Managing owner Ozzie Kheir confirmed the plans to Racing.com and said Jimmysstar will travel interstate on Wednesday evening. “The temperature expected on Saturday in Melbourne was a big consideration to the change of plans,” Kheir revealed, with a forecast of 39 degrees for the Victorian capital. Jimmysstar is a $2.20 favourite at Newcastle and had been rated a $2.30 chance at Flemington, with his likely absence from Flemington opening the race up for stablemate Berkshire Shadow and Amenable. Friday’s race carries A$250,000 in prizemoney – A$50,000 more than at Flemington – and he has drawn the inside barrier with Tyler Schiller booked to ride. Both contests are over 1400 metres. Jamie Kah was to have ridden Jimmysstar from barrier four at Flemington, with connections still weighing up whether to accept a wildcard into the All-Star Mile at Caulfield the following Saturday. Jimmysstar was beaten for the first time on Australian soil last start in the Elms Handicap by Makram. View the full article

A rising star of the three-year-old ranks and a colt that has already stamped himself among the best of his generation will clash for the first time in a tantalising rendition of the Randwick Guineas. The Group One race features a small but select field of 11 runners but it is the match-up between Hobartville Stakes winner Celestial Legend (Dundeel) and proven big race performer Militarize (NZ) (Dundeel) that has been the major pre-race talking point. Celestial Legend lived up to his promise with a stunning Hobartville Stakes (1400m) win at his first start beyond 1200 metres and trainer Les Bridge has been adamant the horse won’t produce his best until he gets to the 1600 metres of Saturday’s Guineas. Militarize is already proven at the journey as the winner of last season’s Champagne Stakes, form he took into the spring with a last-stride victory in the Golden Rose (1400m) and a luckless midfield performance in the Cox Plate (2040m). Trainer Chris Waller deliberately bypassed a return in the Hobartville in favour of taking on the older horses in the Apollo Stakes (1400m) where Militarize finished an encouraging second to stablemate Fangirl (Sebring). It is that run that Waller believes marks Militarize as the horse they all have to get past on Saturday. “We purposely chose taking on the weight-for-age horses just to season him up,” Waller said. “And back to his own age group, he should be very hard to beat. “It was a good first-up run, so 1400 metres to the mile, he is equally as effective. “The beauty of Militarize is he is good on good tracks, or if we get a bit of rain, it’s not too much of a disadvantage either, so a pretty straightforward prep.” While bullish about Militarize’s chances, Waller is also wary of Celestial Legend. The colt has undeniable talent and Bridge has suggested he could be the horse to fill the void left by the retirement of his Everest winner Classique Legend. Waller concedes his rival’s last-start performance was a head-turner and that Militarize will need to be on his game. “Celestial Legend was brilliant,” Waller said. “Obviously, we’ve got the benchmark and making sure that he comes back is my job. “It will be a good race.” Militarize is a $2.30 Randwick Guineas favourite after drawing well in barrier four, ahead of Celestial Legend who has the outside gate in the field of 11. View the full article

Promising filly Bedtime Story (NZ) (Per Incanto) will get her opportunity at attaining black-type in next week’s Gr.2 Wellington Guineas (1400m) following her victory in the Cavallo Farm & Chris Rutten Bloodstock 3YO (1300m) at Otaki on Wednesday. It was the third victory from five starts for the daughter of Per Incanto, having placed in her other two starts. After jumping away fairly, Bedtime Story settled three back on the fence for jockey Kozzi Asano before finding herself in the trail with 500m to go after Revolt came off the markers to take up the coveted one-one position. Turning for home, Asano navigated his charge three-wide where she entered a three-way duel with race favourite No Rain Ever (No Nay Never) and Revolt (NZ) (War Decree), with the latter looking the winner until rider Masa Hashizume was dislodged at the 50m mark and Bedtime Story went on to claim a head victory. Both horse and rider were unharmed, with Hashizume going on to fulfil his riding obligations for the remainder of the card. Trainers Guy Lowry and Leah Zydenbos were pleased with Bedtime Story’s performance and are looking forward to heading to the Wellington Guineas with her next week. “It was good to get another win with her. You need a bit of luck every now and then,” Lowry said. “Not only will she benefit from the run, she would have learnt a lot from today as well. With blinkers on for the first time she over-raced a bit, but other than that she was good. “She will go on to the Wellington Guineas next Saturday.” Stablemate Wewillrock (NZ) (El Roca) is also earmarked to head to Trentham next week to tackle the Listed Lincoln Farms Lightning Handicap (1200m) first-up following a pleasing exhibition gallop alongside Faraglioni (NZ) (El Roca) and Sindee (NZ) (Ardrossan) in-between races at Otaki on Wednesday. “I was pleased with his hit-out today, he was just asked to keep up with them,” Lowry said. “He will head to the Lightning now, but he will possibly head back over to Australia at some stage.” Meanwhile, Lowry will head to Ellerslie on Saturday in search of a better track for his three-win mare Candle (NZ) (Super Easy), who will tackle 1400m for the first time in the SNG Media 1400. “I like her. She is a mare with plenty of ability,” he said. “She has had no luck (lately), it has been wet tracks or getting stopped in her tracks. When you ride them back you need a bit of luck. She is good enough on her day. “That is the key (with going to Ellerslie), to get a decent track and to see whether she will go 1400m. If she does, it opens up a few avenues for next year.” A day prior at Taupo, stablemate Rosalita (NZ) (Tivaci) will attempt to shed her bridesmaid tag in the DPA Chartered Accountants (1400m). The daughter of Tivaci has placed in her four last outings and her connections are hoping she can break through for a maiden win this week. “She is an honest filly and just needs a bit of luck from that draw (17),” Lowry said. View the full article

Owners Alastair Lawrence and John Rattray, of Bonneval (NZ) (Makfi) fame, have had success sending horses to Waipukurau trainer Simon Wilson over the last few years and they are hoping that continues with their Group Three winner Marroni (NZ) (Makfi). Wilson had previously been entrusted with Scutar (NZ) (O’Reilly) and Vidiano (Pierro) for the partnership, with the former posting three of his four victories under Wilson’s care, while Vidiano also tasted success from the Central Hawke’s Bay barn. Wilson’s rural, boutique stable environment has proven to be a successful recipe in the past for Lawrence, Rattray, and their group of owners, and they are hoping it can help reinvigorate the racing career of Marroni. The seven-year-old son of Makfi has posted seven wins and nine placings from his 33 starts to date for trainer Andrew Forsman, having also been in the care of former training partner Murray Baker in his formative years. His highlights include victory in the Gr.3 Manawatu Cup (2250m) and placings in the Gr.2 Easter Handicap (1600m), Gr.2 Japan Trophy (1600m), and Gr.3 Sellwood Stakes (2000m). He was last sighted on raceday at Sandown last May and has been given a long, slow build-up for his debut run for Wilson in Saturday’s The Hits Autumn Cup (1600m) at Trentham. The Hawke’s Bay trainer said he is pleased to be entrusted with another runner for the ownership group and is hopeful of a strong showing this weekend. “I have had a few horses for the owners in previous years. He (Marroni) is in the twilight of his racing career and they thought a different environment may help reinvigorate him,” Wilson said. “He has been a very good horse. I don’t know what the future holds for him, but we will see what happens.” Marroni readied for Saturday’s assignment with a 1200m trial at Foxton last month where he was runner-up behind stakes performer Semper Magico (NZ) (Per Incanto). “I still don’t know a lot about him, but he trialled nicely enough for where he was in his preparation,” Wilson said. “He has been in work for a while now, so he is ready to start.” Marroni was set to carry 60kg this weekend but will get some weight relief courtesy of apprentice jockey Ciel Butler’s two-kilogram claim. “Ciel Butler will ride him on Saturday to take a few kilos off, which in his first start back will be a big benefit to him hopefully,” Wilson said. Marroni has drawn gate three for Saturday and Wilson is looking forward to getting a line on his charge against a handy field, which includes Group One winner He’s A Doozy (NZ) (Zacinto), Group One performer Chase (NZ) (Zed), Group Three winner Aljay (NZ) (Rock N Pop), dual stakes winner Soldier Boy (NZ) (Proisir), Group Two performer Duncan Creek (NZ) (Super Easy), and Group Three performer Sumi (NZ) (Atlante). “He likes to be in just behind the pace, just a bit better than midfield, so that should work out nicely for him from that draw,” Wilson said. “It is a nice field, there are some well-performed horses in there. We will just see how he goes and take it from there.” View the full article

Stephen Marsh’s immediate focus is on Ellerslie this Saturday with stable star Velocious (Written Tycoon), but he’s also got an eye on a following juvenile prize. The Cambridge trainer is upbeat about her chances in the Gr.1 Sistema Stakes (1200m) and, all going well, a Central Districts venture awaits the filly, with the trip offering massive future benefits. Velocious has won three of her four starts and the precocious daughter of Written Tycoon has ticked all the boxes since her dominant victory in the Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m). “She had a little break after that and has done very well since, her trial the other day (at Cambridge) topped her off nicely,” Marsh said. “She had her final gallop this (Wednesday) morning and everything looks bang on track for her.” Safely through Saturday, the Gr.1 Courtesy Ford Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) at Trentham on April 6 is an attractive option, as it is the first of the bonus races associated with the inaugural running of next year’s NZB Kiwi (1500m). “I think we will certainly be looking at that, she’s thriving and there will be a nice gap between races for her,” Marsh said. “The Manawatu Sires’ is part of the $1 million bonus for the Kiwi, so it’s all on the radar.” Velocious spearheads a quartet of feature race chances for the stable on Saturday, with El Vencedor (NZ) (Shocking) and Skyman (Mukhadram) in the Gr.1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) and Nest Egg (NZ) (Reliable Man) in the Gr.2 Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup (3200m). El Vencedor has enjoyed a lucrative campaign, highlighted by success in the Gr.3 Eagle Technology Stakes (1600m) and he has also finished runner-up in the Gr.1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) and third in the Gr.2 Rich Hill Mile (1600m). At his most recent appearance, the son of Shocking was a game fourth in the Gr.1 Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m) and will head into new distance territory at Ellerslie. “As long as he relaxes nicely in his first go over ground he should be fine and we thought we’d give him a go at the end of his preparation,” Marsh said. “He’ll go out for a long spell afterwards, he’s bred to get the 2000m but he’s often been a bit keen. He has been so consistent this time in, so he deserves his chance.” Skyman was an encouraging fifth in the Thorndon in his first appearance for the stable since relocating from Chris Waller’s Sydney operation and had excuses when out of the picture last time out in the Gr.1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m). “He didn’t get any favours and after jumping okay he got pushed back into a bad spot and was okay late,” Marsh said. “I think it was a run to forget and he has come on well since.” Proven stayer Nest Egg will relish a return to the ultimate flat trip in the Auckland Cup after proving his staying prowess in the spring when a close second in the Gr.3 New Zealand Cup (3200m). Following a break after Riccarton, he has been unplaced in three lead-up runs but Saturday’s distance brings him right back into contention. “He is desperate for the two miles and he’ll obviously run it better than most and he can certainly turn his form around,” Marsh said. Of his other runners at Ellerslie, an in-form son of Tavistock is expected to give another top account of himself in the Go Racing Handicap (1400m). “I really like the way the Financier is going and he should be hard to beat again,” Marsh said. The four-year-old has made his way into the top grade after consecutive wins at Matamata and Te Rapa. View the full article

Think About It will headline the Group 1 Canterbury Stakes at Randwick on Saturday afternoon. Photo: Darren Winningham The first of two Group 1 races that will headline the action at Randwick on Saturday will be the $750,000 Canterbury Stakes over 1300m. With only eight runners accepting for the contest, the reigning Everest champion Think About It has opened as an odds-on favourite at -105.26 with online bookmakers. The Joseph Pride-trained gelding will return for his fifth racing preparation, where he will be looking to build on his outstanding start to his career. The son of So You Think has been given two barrier trials in the lead-up to his first-up run and is expected to play a massive role in the middle-distance races over the Sydney Autumn Carnival and during The Championships. There is potential for this field to shrink even more, as the second favourite, Espiona (+300), has accepted in the Newmarket Handicap at Flemington on the same day. If Chris Waller does choose to run the five-year-old mare at Randwick, the booking of James McDonald and a cosy barrier (2) should give her every chance to build on an impressive first-up performance. Pericles (+550) sits on the third line of betting and brings some of the best form lines to this race after finishing second behind arguably Australia’s best horse, Mr Brightside, in the Group 1 Futurity Stakes last start. The James Cummings-trained gelding has improved nicely between his first and second run this preparation, and the son of Street Boss is expected to be cherry-ripe for this third-up start. Lady Laguna (+750) will compete at Group 1 level for the second time in her 23-start career, coming off a narrow defeat to Zougotcha in the Group 2 Millie Fox Stakes at Rosehill previously, which ended her winning streak at three. Although this is his first attempt at the top level, Coal Crusher (+1100) seems to be the only other contender after he finished half a length off King Of Sparta in the Group 2 Expressway Stakes two starts back. The Canterbury Stakes is scheduled to jump at 4pm AEDT and will be the seventh race on the massive Randwick program. 2024 Canterbury Stakes Final Field 1. Think About It (8) T: Joseph Pride J: Sam Clipperton W: 59kg F: x3111 Age: 5YO Color: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: So You Think (NZ) Dam: Tiare -105.26 -625 2. Pericles (1) T: James Cummings J: Tom Marquand W: 59kg F: 26×23 Age: 4YO Color: Brown Sex: Gelding Sire: Street Boss (USA) Dam: Accessories (GB) +550 -125 3. Coal Crusher (5) T: Joseph Pride J: Adam Hyeronimus W: 59kg F: 52×14 Age: 6YO Color: Chestnut Sex: Gelding Sire: Turffontein Dam: Media Academy +1100 +160 4. Bandersnatch (3) T: Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes J: Jordan Childs W: 59kg F: x4285 Age: 7YO Color: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Casino Prince Dam: Divine Faith +5000 +500 5. Malkovich (4) T: Bjorn Baker J: Joshua Parr W: 59kg F: 3363x Age: 6YO Color: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Choisir Dam: Mabkhara +2500 +290 6. Espiona (2) T: Chris Waller J: James McDonald W: 57kg F: 3×417 Age: 5YO Color: Bay Sex: Mare Sire: Extreme Choice Dam: Dahooil (NZ) +300 -222.22 7. Lady Laguna (6) T: Annabel Neasham J: Tyler Schiller W: 57kg F: 21112 Age: 4YO Color: Bay Sex: Mare Sire: Overshare Dam: Catalina de Lago (NZ) +750 +105 8. Call Di (7) T: Joseph Pride J: Nash Rawiller W: 57kg F: x2352 Age: 4YO Color: Bay Sex: Mare Sire: Frankel (GB) Dam: Samantha Miss +5000 +500 Horse racing news View the full article

What Newcastle Races Where Newcastle Racecourse – 100 Darling St, Broadmeadow NSW 2292 When Friday, March 8, 2024 First Race 1:15pm AEDT Visit Dabble Provincial racing returns to Newcastle on Friday afternoon, where the Group 3 Newcastle Stakes (1400m) headlines a massive eight-race program. The rail moves out +3m the entire circuit, and with the BOM suggesting no rain in the region, participants should expect a Good 4 surface. The opening race is scheduled to get underway at 1:15pm local time. Newcastle Stakes Top Tip: Unspoken Unspoken couldn’t have been more impressive in his second Australian campaign, putting together four straight victories, culminating in the Five Diamonds at Rosehill on November 11. The son of Territories couldn’t put a foot wrong throughout the entire campaign, utilising his early speed to put himself in ideal stalking positions on every occasion before blousing his rivals late. He can do something similar on Friday as he returns from a 117-day spell and based off his soft barrier trial at Warwick Farm on February 12, Unspoken looks primed to continue his winning ways in the Group 3 Newcastle Stakes. Newcastle Stakes Race 7 – #2 Unspoken (10) 5yo Gelding | T: Peter & Paul Snowden | J: Tom Sherry (58.5kg) Bet with Playup Best Bet: Piplup Piplup is winless heading into start four on Friday, but punters should be confident backing her after a terrific return at Wyong on February 22. The filly by Inference got too far back on that occasion before storming through the wire to be beaten less than a half-length. She gets a much more favourable map in this event, and with the 3kg claim of Zac Wadick getting Piplup in here with just 53.5kg on her back, she must be considered the one to beat. Best Bet Race 1 – #6 Piplup (5) 3yo Filly | T: Brad Widdup | J: Zac Wadick (a3) (56.5kg) Bet with Picklebet Next Best: Just Party Just Party could be a very smart type from the Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou stable based on his two barriers trials. His latest jump-out victory came at Rosehill on February 15, with the son of Justify rounding up her rivals to pull away by 2.5 lengths on the wire. It was another 7.3 lengths back to third as well, giving the impression it could be a slick trial worth following. Gate 11 does pose some problems for the unraced two-year-old, but with experienced hoop Tim Clark in the saddle, leave it to him to weave his way to victory. Next Best Race 3 – #4 Just Party (11) 2yo Colt | T: Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou | J: Tim Clark (58kg) Bet with Bet365 Best Value: New Pharoah Despite being well-beaten at the end of his debut campaign, New Pharoah brings some quality form-lines to this maiden contest. He was thrown in the deep end by the Brett Cavanough barn to contest Listed grade at Eagle Farm on June 3 and was far from disgraced when finishing mid-field 4.9 lengths away. He was strong through the line in his most recent barrier trial at Scone on February 14, and provided he can hold his form from last preparation, New Pharoah must be considered a winning hope. Best Value Race 5 – #1 New Pharoah (6) 3yo Colt | T: Brett Cavanough | J: Jason Collett (59.5kg) Bet with Neds Newcastle Friday quaddie tips – 8/3/2024 Newcastle quadrella selections Friday, March 8, 2023 1-2-5-10 1-6-10-12 2-3-6-7-9 2-3-7-9-14-15 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article

Randwick Guineas favourite, Militarize (Photo by George Sal/Racing Photos) The Group 1 Randwick Guineas (1600m) takes top billing this Saturday at Randwick, where a competitive contingent of 11 three-year-olds are set to take their place in the $1,000,000 feature. The Chris Waller-trained Militarize has been the long-standing favourite for the event, and after drawing barrier four, online bookmakers aren’t willing to take any chances on the Dundeel colt, installing him as a clear +140 favourite post barrier draw. He was impressive first-up when finishing runner-up against the older horses in the Group 2 Apollo Stakes (1400m) at this track on February 17 and gets the services of leading hoop James McDonald for the first time this weekend. Celestial Legend was dominant in the Group 2 Hobartville Stakes (1400m) a fortnight ago, and with that usually the traditional lead-up, the Les Bridge-trained galloper is sure to have plenty of admirers on the second line of betting at +290. Eight other gallopers are set to come through the Hobartville form-line, as Tom Kitten (+500) and Encap (+750) hold single figures in betting. Meanwhile, the Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott-trained pair of Les Vampires (+1100) and Ganbare (+1500) are being respected early. The rank outsider comes in the form of the Edward Cummings-trained Cosmic Lad +10000 who comes through mid-week BM64 company and will need to make big strides to be a player in this contest. The Group 1 Randwick Guineas is race eight on the Randwick program this Saturday and is scheduled to get underway at 4:35pm local time. 2024 Randwick Guineas Final Field 1. Militarize (4) T: Chris Waller J: James McDonald W: 56.5kg F: 2×851 Age: 3YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Dundeel (NZ) Dam: Amerindia (GB) +140 -333.33 2. Tom Kitten (8) T: James Cummings J: Nash Rawiller W: 56.5kg F: 56×12 Age: 3YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Harry Angel (IRE) Dam: Transfers +500 -105.26 3. Celestial Legend (11) T: Les Bridge J: Kerrin McEvoy W: 56.5kg F: 15×52 Age: 3YO Color: Grey Sex: Colt Sire: Dundeel (NZ) Dam: Sarraqa +290 -181.82 4. Encap (10) T: Gary Portelli J: Jason Collett W: 56.5kg F: 23×52 Age: 3YO Color: Chestnut Sex: Gelding Sire: Capitalist Dam: Enquare +750 +140 5. Ganbare (5) T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott J: Tim Clark W: 56.5kg F: 7×381 Age: 3YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Maurice (JPN) Dam: Mardi +1500 +260 6. Les Vampires (2) T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott J: Adam Hyeronimus W: 56.5kg F: 31×71 Age: 3YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Pierro Dam: Musidora +1100 +200 7. Fukubana (3) T: Matthew Dunn J: Tommy Berry W: 56.5kg F: 413×2 Age: 3YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Dundeel (NZ) Dam: Sekiyama +1500 +260 8. Ducasse (9) T: Michael Freedman J: Tyler Schiller W: 56.5kg F: 81×36 Age: 3YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Trapeze Artist Dam: Custard +2500 +400 9. Ceolwulf (1) T: Joseph Pride J: Sam Clipperton W: 56.5kg F: 6x6x2 Age: 3YO Color: Brown Sex: Colt Sire: Tavistock (NZ) Dam: Las Brisas (GB) +2500 +400 10. Cafe Millenium (7) T: John O’Shea J: Tom Marquand W: 56.5kg F: 9×048 Age: 3YO Color: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Not a Single Doubt Dam: Veloce Forte +10000 +1500 11. Cosmic Lad (6) T: Edward Cummings J: Chad Schofield W: 56.5kg F: 314 Age: 3YO Color: Brown Sex: Gelding Sire: Adelaide (IRE) Dam: Halimede +10000 +4000 Horse racing news View the full article