Wandering Eyes

Extra distance and a switch to weight-for-age for Saturday’s Gr.1 Trackside Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m) are steps in the right direction for Ladies Man, but his trainer Allan Sharrock is looking a few weeks further down the road. Saturday’s $400,000 feature will be only the second Group One appearance for Ladies Man, who scored a brilliant come-from-behind victory in the Gr.1 Livamol Classic (2040m) at Hastings in October. The six-year-old son of Zed later made two appearances during the Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington in November, including a second placing in the Gr.3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2600m). Ladies Man returned to action in a 1400m open handicap at New Plymouth on February 3, making up late ground for third behind runaway winner Ifndoubtgetout. “I thought that was a massive run under 62kg,” Sharrock said. “He’s a serious racehorse. “It’s still going to be a bit short for him tomorrow at 1600m, but his work has been super. We’re hoping to see him run another good race, and then his main goal will be the Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (Gr.1, 2000m) at Ellerslie. He’s going to have to come up against Legarto there, which is not a prospect many of us would relish, but he’s coming up really well and going the right way. I’m more than happy with the horse.” Ladies Man will be ridden by Kate Hercock on Saturday and is rated a $10 chance in a market dominated by the high-flying Desert Lightning ($2.50). Ladies Man headlines a talented Otaki team for Sharrock, who will also saddle the unbeaten Alexandra Quick in the Tele Otaki Handicap (1400m). The four-year-old daughter of Per Incanto has made a huge impression in both of her starts to date. “Those two wins have been a little bit spooky and she seems to have got a bit of that X-factor,” Sharrock said. “But the thing with her is that, as we move her up through the grades, she can’t carry on doing things as badly wrong as she has been and still keep winning races. “She had a jumpout on Monday where she got away well and took up a position just behind the leaders. She did everything perfectly there, which was pleasing to see. “We’ll have to wait and see what she does when we get her back to the races, but if she’s as good as she was in the jumpout, she’s got to be a very good chance.” Saturday’s New World Otaki New Zealand St Leger Trial (2300m) marks the first appearance by Waisake since he lost his rider in the early stages of last month’s Gr.3 Wellington Cup (3200m). “He’s taken no harm from that and has actually been working superbly,” Sharrock said. “This race will be a bit of a fork in the road for his campaign. It’ll tell us whether we look at the Auckland Cup (Gr.2, 3200m) or the St Leger (2600m). “I think we’ve got a handful of nice chances on Saturday. Malachy seems a promising enough three-year-old and he didn’t have a lot of luck last time. There’s not many in his race this weekend and it’ll probably be a cat-and-mouse affair, but he’s got some good ability there. “Tshiebwe needed his last-start run and could be quite a progressive stayer in the making. Going up to 2200m should suit him. “Tavattack is coming up well. We could look at the Easter Handicap (Gr.3, 1600m) with him, or he could even travel with Ladies Man if we take him to Sydney or Brisbane. “So even though there’s probably none I’d be wanting to put $2000 to win on, I think a few of ours should be running nice races.” View the full article

Hall of Fame trainer Graeme Rogerson has bigger and better things in mind for all three of his runners at Otaki on Saturday, including a potential quick back-up into next weekend’s Gr.1 Trackside New Zealand Derby (2400m) at Ellerslie. Rogerson will run Solidify in Saturday’s $40,000 Cavallo Farm & Chris Rutten Bloodstock 3YO (1600m). “If he runs a good race at Otaki tomorrow and pulls up well afterwards, we’ll think very seriously about running him in the Derby,” said Rogerson, who trains in partnership with his wife Debbie. Solidify was a Listed winner at Te Rapa last autumn, then had no luck in two black-type appearances during the Queensland winter carnival. A second placing in the Gr.2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m) was the highlight of an up-and-down spring for the son of Redwood, who was later gelded and spelled before returning with a 10th in this month’s Gr.1 BCD Group Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa. “He didn’t quite perform to his best in the spring, but he had a twisted testicle and we gelded him,” Rogerson said. “We ran him in the Group One sprint first-up, which was a tough race for him to kick off in, but I thought he got going quite nicely in the last 50m. I was very happy with the run. “He’s been working well since then and I’m expecting a big performance from him tomorrow. It’ll be interesting to see whether he can earn himself a shot at the Derby.” The TAB currently rates Solidify an $81 chance in its Derby market, which is headed by exceptional filly Orchestral at $1.40. Team Rogerson already has a leading Derby contender in the form of last-start Gr.2 Avondale Guineas (2100m) runner-up Just As Sharp, who is on the third line of favouritism at $10. “I thought his Avondale Guineas run was super under the circumstances,” Rogerson said. “I didn’t think they’d be winning from the back at Ellerslie that day, so we decided to change his pattern of racing. Ryan Elliot rode him to instructions and had him up closer to the pace. As it turned out, the filly was able to run him down. We were still very happy with him considering the amount of work he’d done in the running. “I think he’ll make a race of it against that filly in the Derby – I really do. We’ll ride him quieter. It’s going to be a good race to watch, and I’m looking forward to it.” The other two Rogerson-trained runners at Otaki on Saturday are last-start winner Hanalei Star, who will join Solidify among a small field in the Cavallo Farm & Chris Rutten Bloodstock 3YO, and promising stayer Infer in the Harcourts Otaki Handicap (2200m). “Hanalei Star is a filly on the way up, and she needs racing,” Rogerson said. “She’s been a very slow learner. This race should suit her – it’s only a little field, although there’s a couple of quite nice horses in it. “I wanted to run her in the Lowland Stakes (Gr.2, 2100m) next Wednesday, but she still needs another good hit-out before going up to that sort of distance. I’ll see how she goes here and then decide on Monday whether we back her up in the Lowland. “I think Infer is a really good staying horse in the making. He won easily at Matamata last start, then was unfortunately late-scratched at Te Rapa the other day – he had a bruise on his heel, and I put a pad over it and that just ended up pressing down on it. “That’s come right now and he worked like a Cup horse on Tuesday. We’ll have a look at him tomorrow before making any firm decisions, but I think we’ll likely press on towards the Auckland Cup (Gr.2, 3200m). We’ve got quite a bit to look forward to over the next couple of weeks, I think.” View the full article

A star-studded field of three-year-olds vying for Randwick Guineas glory takes centre stage at Rosehill Gardens for the 2024 Hobartville Stakes in Sydney on Saturday. Group 1 winner Tom Kitten is the three-year-old to beat at set weights in the Hobartville this weekend. Photo: Steve Hart. This Group 2, $400,000 race features 13 contenders, with Godolphin’s Tom Kitten leading the charge at $3.50 in the latest Hobartville markets at Ladbrokes. The Spring Champion Stakes winner aims to bounce back from an unplaced effort in his first run this prep. Partnered by Nash Rawiller from barrier four, he looks set to improve with a lighter weight (56.6kg) on a likely Soft track. Encap ($6), trained by Gary Portelli, seeks his second turf victory after a narrow defeat in the Golden Rose Stakes. Fukubana ($6.50), trained by Matthew Dunn, has been well-supported and boasts fitness with two recent runs. Les Bridge’s Celestial Legend ($8), Michael Freedman’s Ducasse ($9), and Waterhouse/Bott’s Les Vampires ($9.50) are among other contenders to watch. The race is set for Rosehill Race 8 at 4:35 PM (AEDT) in Sydney on Saturday. Don’t miss this exciting clash as future stars vie for Randwick Guineas positioning! 2024 Hobartville Stakes Field No Last 10 Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight Probable Weight Penalty Hcp Rating 1 14x13321x6 TOM KITTEN James Cummings Nash Rawiller 4 56.5kg 100 2 3x223125x3 ENCAP Gary Portelli Jason Collett 12 56.5kg 95 3 786x41183x GANBARE Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Tim Clark 7 56.5kg 88 4 616416x RAF ATTACK (NZ) Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Regan Bayliss 13 56.5kg 85 5 37x4763x1 DUCASSE Michael Freedman Tommy Berry 2 56.5kg 78 6 12x842x HEMAN Peter & Paul Snowden Tyler Schiller 8 56.5kg 78 7 21x25x5 CELESTIAL LEGEND Les Bridge Kerrin McEvoy 10 56.5kg 77 8 312x6x CEOLWULF (NZ) Joseph Pride Sam Clipperton 9 56.5kg 76 9 25×6185336 FLYING TRAPEZE Gary Portelli Dylan Gibbons (a) 3 56.5kg 76 10 150x840x CAFE MILLENIUM John O’Shea Zac Lloyd (a) 6 56.5kg 70 11 12×31 FUKUBANA Matthew Dunn James McDonald 5 56.5kg 70 12 317×1 LES VAMPIRES Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Joshua Parr 1 56.5kg 70 13 1x06x2 LAST STRAW John Sargent Tom Sherry 11 54.5kg 66 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 Randwick Guineas Hopefuls Clash in Thrilling Hobartville Stakes 2024 appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

Disappointing news for racing fans as Peter & Paul Snowden’s colt Bodyguard has been scratched from the 2024 Blue Diamond Stakes. The unbeaten colt, a leading contender, failed two veterinary examinations due to lameness. Bodyguard has been withdrawn from the 2024 Blue Diamond Stakes field due to lameness. Photo: Ultimate Racing Photos. Bodyguard, a $1.6 million purchase, was aiming for his third win from three starts and the prestigious Prelude-Blue Diamond double. His scratching leaves jockey Mark Zahra without a ride in the race. The Snowdens still have Fearless in the race for the same connections, an eye-catching runner-up in the Group 3 Canonbury Stakes. He is currently an outsider at $34 in Blue Diamond betting at Ladbrokes. High Octane is also prepared by the father and son training duo and is at a shorter quote of $6 through Ladbrokes to improve on his lead-up fifth in the Prelude. With Bodyguard out, Matt Laurie’s Coleman (Group 3 Chairman’s Stakes winner) solidifies his position as the $3.50 favourite. First emergency In Her Eyes enters the field at 50/1. All other contenders are cleared to run. The Blue Diamond Stakes remains the feature race on Saturday’s Caulfield card (Race 8, 4:15 PM AEDT). 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 2024 Blue Diamond Stakes Field Loses Top Contender Bodyguard appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

Strapper Lorraine Edwards, winning jockey Aaron Sweeney and trainer Dick Leech after Early Crow won the $135,000 Palmerston Sprint (1200m) at Fannie Bay during the 2023 Darwin Cup Carnival. (Picture: Caroline Camilleri/Darwin Photography Professionals) Early Crow returns on Saturday at Pioneer Park as he eyes the Pioneer Sprint (1200m) on April 6 during the Alice Springs Cup Carnival. After spending six months in the paddock following his Palmerston Sprint win last August, the five-year-old gelding will find it tough against a high-quality field over 1100m at Benchmark 76 level. Throw At Da Stumps and Mighty Murt are in good form, Kickatorp and Kerioth did little wrong first-up recently, and although Supreme Times and Perkova are returning from a spell, it was hard to fault their form leading up to Christmas. Early Crow was allotted 61kg for Saturday’s race, but the booking of apprentice hoop Lek Maloney brings the weight down to 58kg. Still, the Dick Leech-trained gelding will have to jump from the outside gate in the seven-horse field. Most of Early Crow’s rivals on Saturday have the Pioneer Sprint in their sights as well, so it should prove a highly competitive affair. “It’s a small field, but it’s full of quality and it’s not very often you can say that every horse has a genuine chance,” TRNT chief executive officer Andrew O’Toole said. “Most of them should back up in the Pioneer Sprint, so you can’t see many of them taking a backward step on Saturday. “Early Crow has good Alice Springs form having won three races from five starts, but it will be a big effort if he wins after such a long break. “However, he does have a respectable first-up record and you just know that Dick will have him heading in the right direction, although no doubt he will derive plenty improvement from the run. “Throw At Da Stumps from the Kerry Petrick yard has been terrific since arriving in the Alice having posted two wins from three Alice starts – he finished second behind the impressive Great Buy in his only other start.” Early Crow was the early +200 favourite from Throw At Da Stumps (+300), with the other five runners were at a single-figure price with the top online bookmakers. Horse racing news View the full article

Sword Point is a two-time winner in Hong Kong for Frankie Lor. Frankie Lor will saddle Money Catcher and Sword Point against the might of Romantic Warrior in Sunday’s HK$13 million Group 1 Hong Kong Gold Cup (2000m) at Sha Tin. The Triple Crown’s second leg features 11 runners, including Voyage Bubble, winner of the first leg – the HK$13 million Group 1 Stewards’ Cup (1600m). Romantic Warrior heads the declarations and is chasing a sixth Group 1 crown from the widest barrier. Money Catcher and Sword Point return aiming to recapture their best form, with the front-running Money Catcher drawing gate 10. Sword Point breaks from post five. “He’s (Money Catcher) a one-paced horse but he’s always consistent. Luke Ferraris rides him and he looks good in trackwork. We’ll see what happens,” Lor said. Money Catcher hasn’t quite reproduced his heroics from last season which returned two Group 3 wins and a pair of Group 1 placings. He’s managed only one top-three finish from six runs, finishing third in the HK$5.35 million Group 2 BOCHK Jockey Club Cup (2000m) behind Straight Arron, while Sword Point produced a career-high when second in that same race. “He (Sword Point) looks like he can improve but not too much. Maybe a little bit, 2000 metres is suitable for him and Lyle Hewitson rides him,” Lor said. Each runner in the Citi Hong Kong Gold Cup carries 126lb. Voyage Bubble drew barrier seven with Zac Purton, while Straight Arron goes from stall six under Hugh Bowman. The HK$13 million Group 1 Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup (2400m) in May is the third and final leg of the Triple Crown. River Verdon (1994) is the only Triple Crown winner in Hong Kong racing history. Beauty Joy, Encountered, Nimble Nimbus, Senor Toba, Five G Patch and Champion Dragon round out the Citi Hong Kong Gold Cup field. Now in the second half of the 2023/24 racing season, former Hong Kong Champion Trainer (2021/22) Lor is expecting improvement from his yard as the campaign progresses. “So far, so good. It’s been not too bad this season but some horses have injuries and temperatures, so it’s hard to say, I hope over the next few months it should get better,” he said. Lor has a team of seven engaged this weekend as he aims to enhance his 24 wins this campaign, including sparkling debut winner Illuminous in the Class 3 Citi Investment Services Handicap (1400m) with Karis Teetan up. “I’m looking towards the Derby and hopefully, he’ll get a higher rating. At the moment he is only rated 71, so I need to race him two times at least and see if he can win. If he can, maybe we can look forward to the Derby,” Lor said. The HK$26 million 147th Hong Kong Derby (2000m) is run on 24 March. Benno Yung has last-start winner Ace Victory lining up in the Class 3 Citi Mortgage Services Handicap (1200m) with Jerry Chau booked to ride. The five-year-old rises in grade and steps away from barrier 10. “He dropped to Class 4 and the field was a bit weak. It’ll be a big challenge for him back up in grade,” Yung said. Fun Together takes aim at Illuminous in the finale for Yung, who hopes the three-time winner this season has further scope to ascend. Chau remains aboard the 70-rater. “I think his form is still pretty good and he is improving. He’s a nice horse,” he said. Following her win at Happy Valley on Wednesday night, trainer Pierre Ng is eyeing more success in the upper grades with Bon’s A Pearla. “It was a nice win. With a lighter weight on her she can really sprint home well, it wasn’t top weight – last time it was and that was a bit difficult for her. I’m looking forward to running her in Class 2 with a light weight – she’ll be very competitive there,” he said. Ng has eight runners declared at Sha Tin on Sunday, including Frantanck in the Class 3 Citi Insurance Services Handicap (1600m) who jumps from barrier one. “He’s very consistent but he’s sort of one-paced and he’s hard to get in front. Angus Chung rides this time and we’ll keep rolling him to the front,” Ng said. Jumbo Fortune represents the stable aiming for a second win through 2023/24. “He’s racing well. He ran well last start, he finished off to get within two lengths of the winner last time out. 1400 metres and a light weight – he will be competitive,” Ng said. Antoine Hamelin rides Jumbo Fortune from gate seven this weekend. Horse racing news View the full article

Solidify (outside) will contest the Cavallo Farm & Chris Rutten Bloodstock 3YO (1600m) at Otaki on Saturday. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Hall of Fame trainer Graeme Rogerson has bigger and better things in mind for all three of his runners at Otaki on Saturday, including a potential quick back-up into next weekend’s Group 1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) at Ellerslie. Rogerson will run Solidify in Saturday’s $40,000 Cavallo Farm & Chris Rutten Bloodstock 3YO (1600m). “If he runs a good race at Otaki tomorrow and pulls up well afterwards, we’ll think very seriously about running him in the Derby,” said Rogerson, who trains in partnership with his wife Debbie. Solidify was a Listed winner at Te Rapa last autumn, then had no luck in two black-type appearances during the Queensland winter carnival. A second placing in the Group 2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m) was the highlight of an up-and-down spring for the son of Redwood, who was later gelded and spelled before returning with a 10th in this month’s Group 1 BCD Group Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa. “He didn’t quite perform to his best in the spring, but he had a twisted testicle and we gelded him,” Rogerson said. “We ran him in the Group 1 sprint first-up, which was a tough race for him to kick off in, but I thought he got going quite nicely in the last 50m. I was very happy with the run. “He’s been working well since then and I’m expecting a big performance from him tomorrow. It’ll be interesting to see whether he can earn himself a shot at the Derby.” Bookmakers currently rate Solidify an $81 chance in its Derby market, which is headed by exceptional filly Orchestral at $1.40. Team Rogerson already has a leading Derby contender in the form of last-start Group 2 Avondale Guineas (2100m) runner-up Just As Sharp, who is on the third line of favouritism at $10. “I thought his Avondale Guineas run was super under the circumstances,” Rogerson said. “I didn’t think they’d be winning from the back at Ellerslie that day, so we decided to change his pattern of racing. Ryan Elliot rode him to instructions and had him up closer to the pace. As it turned out, the filly was able to run him down. We were still very happy with him considering the amount of work he’d done in the running. “I think he’ll make a race of it against that filly in the Derby – I really do. We’ll ride him quieter. It’s going to be a good race to watch, and I’m looking forward to it.” The other two Rogerson-trained runners at Otaki on Saturday are last-start winner Hanalei Star, who will join Solidify among a small field in the Cavallo Farm & Chris Rutten Bloodstock 3YO, and promising stayer Infer in the Harcourts Otaki Handicap (2200m). “Hanalei Star is a filly on the way up, and she needs racing,” Rogerson said. “She’s been a very slow learner. This race should suit her – it’s only a little field, although there’s a couple of quite nice horses in it. “I wanted to run her in the Lowland Stakes (Group 2, 2100m) next Wednesday, but she still needs another good hit-out before going up to that sort of distance. I’ll see how she goes here and then decide on Monday whether we back her up in the Lowland. “I think Infer is a really good staying horse in the making. He won easily at Matamata last start, then was unfortunately late-scratched at Te Rapa the other day – he had a bruise on his heel, and I put a pad over it and that just ended up pressing down on it. “That’s come right now and he worked like a Cup horse on Tuesday. We’ll have a look at him tomorrow before making any firm decisions, but I think we’ll likely press on towards the Auckland Cup (Group 2, 3200m). We’ve got quite a bit to look forward to over the next couple of weeks, I think.” Horse racing news View the full article

Desert Lightning will contest the Group 1 Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m) on Saturday. Photo: Race Images Waikato hoop Vinnie Colgan will trek down to Otaki on Saturday to partner exciting four-year-old Desert Lightning in the Group 1 Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m), and he is hoping his charge can live up to his favourite’s tag. The Peter and Dawn Williams-trained gelding has been a standout this season, winning all but one of his four starts, including the Group 1 TAB Classic (1600m) at Trentham in December and the inaugural $1 million Aotearoa Classic (1600m) at Ellerslie last month. Bookmakers have the Pride Of Dubai gelding as a $2.50 fixed-odds favourite, with last start Group 1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) victor Puntura on the second line of betting at $5. Colgan has been aboard Desert Lightning in all four starts this season and has been impressed with the way he has developed since his three-year-old term where he posted a solid record of a win and four placings from nine starts, including victory in the Group 2 Avondale Guineas (2100m) and placings in the Group 1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m), Karaka Million 3YO Classic (1600m), and Group 3 Manawatu Classic (2000m). “He was a nice three-year-old and still ran well in the bigger races last season, but this year he is just a different horse. He is so much stronger and his manners (are a lot better),” Colgan said. Colgan rode Desert Lightning in an exhibition gallop at Ellerslie last Saturday and is pleased with the gelding ahead of his Group 1 assignment. “He had a really nice gallop at Ellerslie on the weekend and galloped brilliant. I am really looking forward to this weekend,” he said. “As long as there is a bit of speed in the race, that will help him out a bit. He is definitely the horse to beat.” Horse racing news View the full article

Ladies Man winning the Group 1 Livamol Classic (2040m) at Hastings last October. Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North) Extra distance and a switch to weight-for-age for Saturday’s Group 1 Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m) are steps in the right direction for Ladies Man, but his trainer Allan Sharrock is looking a few weeks further down the road. Saturday’s $400,000 feature will be only the second Group 1 appearance for Ladies Man, who scored a brilliant come-from-behind victory in the Group 1 Livamol Classic (2040m) at Hastings in October. The six-year-old son of Zed later made two appearances during the Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington in November, including a second placing in the Group 3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2600m)Queen Elizabeth Stakes (VRC). Ladies Man returned to action in a 1400m open handicap at New Plymouth on February 3, making up late ground for third behind runaway winner Ifndoubtgetout. “I thought that was a massive run under 62kg,” Sharrock said. “He’s a serious racehorse. “It’s still going to be a bit short for him tomorrow at 1600m, but his work has been super. We’re hoping to see him run another good race, and then his main goal will be the Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (Group 1, 2000m) at Ellerslie. He’s going to have to come up against Legarto there, which is not a prospect many of us would relish, but he’s coming up really well and going the right way. I’m more than happy with the horse.” Ladies Man will be ridden by Kate Hercock on Saturday and is rated a $10 chance in a market dominated by the high-flying Desert Lightning ($2.50). Ladies Man headlines a talented Otaki team for Sharrock, who will also saddle the unbeaten Alexandra Quick in the Tele Otaki Handicap (1400m). The four-year-old daughter of Per Incanto has made a huge impression in both of her starts to date. “Those two wins have been a little bit spooky and she seems to have got a bit of that X-factor,” Sharrock said. “But the thing with her is that, as we move her up through the grades, she can’t carry on doing things as badly wrong as she has been and still keep winning races. “She had a jumpout on Monday where she got away well and took up a position just behind the leaders. She did everything perfectly there, which was pleasing to see. “We’ll have to wait and see what she does when we get her back to the races, but if she’s as good as she was in the jumpout, she’s got to be a very good chance.” Saturday’s New World Otaki New Zealand St Leger Trial (2300m) marks the first appearance by Waisake since he lost his rider in the early stages of last month’s Group 3 Wellington Cup (3200m). “He’s taken no harm from that and has actually been working superbly,” Sharrock said. “This race will be a bit of a fork in the road for his campaign. It’ll tell us whether we look at the Auckland Cup (Group 2, 3200m) or the St Leger (2600m). “I think we’ve got a handful of nice chances on Saturday. Malachy seems a promising enough three-year-old and he didn’t have a lot of luck last time. There’s not many in his race this weekend and it’ll probably be a cat-and-mouse affair, but he’s got some good ability there. “Tshiebwe needed his last-start run and could be quite a progressive stayer in the making. Going up to 2200m should suit him. “Tavattack is coming up well. We could look at the Easter Handicap (Group 3, 1600m) with him, or he could even travel with Ladies Man if we take him to Sydney or Brisbane. “So even though there’s probably none I’d be wanting to put $2000 to win on, I think a few of ours should be running nice races.” Horse racing news View the full article

Captured By Love will contest the Group 2 Matamata Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) on Saturday. Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North) This Saturday’s juvenile features at Matamata are set to paint a clearer picture for upcoming Group 1 targets, and Te Akau Racing co-trainer Sam Bergerson is hoping for good showings from his high-class trio. Bergerson, who trains in partnership with Mark Walker, will prepare Move To Strike and Unbridled Joy in the Group 3 Matamata Slipper (1200m), while unbeaten filly Captured By Love will attempt a fourth-straight victory in the Group 2 Matamata Breeders’ Stakes (1200m). A son of I Am Invincible, Move To Strike justified his scorching $1.20 favouritism on debut in December, but succumbed to talented stablemate Bellatrix Star at a similar quote in the Group 2 Eclipse Stakes (1200m) on New Year’s Day. “He was a very short-priced favourite that day and got rolled, but Bellatrix Star and Velocious were right there in the blanket finish, so it is very good form,” Bergerson said. “He’s just such a laid-back customer at home, we would’ve loved to get a trial into him between then and Saturday, but unfortunately with how the schedule has worked out, getting a grass trial didn’t work out. “He had an exhibition gallop at Matamata mid-week last week instead, and his work was super with an older horse. Opie (Bosson, jockey) rode him that day, and was pleased with him. “The blinkers go on, and we hope this will sharpen him up a bit. He’s a colt we’ve always had a lot of time for.” Punters have remained faithful to Move To Strike, backing him into $1.80 favouritism, while Bergerson is not discounting the chances of stablemate Unbridled Joy, who currently sits as the $7 equal third-favourite with Sam Weatherley engaged to ride. Unbridled Joy finished only behind fellow Te Akau runner When Stars Align on debut, and soon found the winner’s circle at his next attempt, with little favours in the running. “He’s certainly gone the right way since his win, he found a lot of trouble that day and still managed to get himself out of it and find the line really well,” Bergerson said. “Sam rode him on Tuesday and his work was super, he’s improved a lot and should be a nice chance as well, albeit in a strong field. He’s got a nice barrier (2), he should get a lovely run in behind the speed on Saturday.” Te Akau have claimed six of the last eight editions of the Matamata Slipper, most recently last year’s race with champion two-year-old Tokyo Tycoon. “It is a small field this year, but there is quality in there with Karaka Million form, and Cambridge Stud’s colts (Red Sea and I’m All In). It’s going to shape up as a very interesting race,” Bergerson said. The fillies’ race promises an exciting match-up between Captured By Love, and Listed Wellesley Stakes (1100m) victor Archaic Smile, alongside the Kelsos emphatic debut winner Alabama Lass. A daughter of Written Tycoon, Captured By Love left her rivals fighting for minor placings in the Group 2 Wakefield Challenge Stakes (1100m) at Trentham, and overcame unfavourable conditions at Taranaki to score the Group 3 Taranaki 2YO Classic (1200m) on February 3. “She didn’t love the heavy track at New Plymouth, but she toughed it out and class got her over the line. She had a nice quiet week after that, and her work on Tuesday was good with Opie on the course proper,” Bergerson said. “It’s hard to line-up the form in the Breeders’, but we’ve got the experience and runs on the board and we’re really happy with her. There are some high-quality fillies’ there and the group one picture following Saturday will become a lot clearer.” Bergerson indicated each of the Te Akau two-year-olds would be aimed at the Group 1 Sistema Stakes (1200m) at Ellerslie on March 9, while all hold nominations for the Group 1 Manawatu Sires’ Produce (1400m) three weeks’ later at Trentham. “Getting through Saturday, the logical race for the three of them is the Sistema Stakes, but whether we split them up or not, we’re still not sure. They’ll have to run well, but ideally they’ll head in that direction,” he said. Te Akau will also be represented by capable duo Aotea Lad and Accidental Tourist in the Listed Matamata Veterinary Services Equine Kaimai Stakes (2000m), partnered by Bosson and Billy Jacobson respectively. “Aotea Lad produced a good tough run at Ellerslie on Saturday, he did a lot of work from a wide barrier but stuck on really well. We’ve taken a throw at the stumps with the quick back-up, but he seems in good form, carries a lot of condition and handles his racing well,” Bergerson said. “Accidental Tourist was well outclassed in the Aotearoa Classic, but on his day he is a very nice horse. It’s his first run over ground, it should be interesting, but if he discovers his best form, I wouldn’t be surprised if he could run a cheeky race.” After puzzling performances on Karaka Millions evening, Bergerson is hoping for an improved showing from Group One performers Talisker and Maven Belle at Otaki on Saturday. “Talisker was a bit disappointing in the Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m), we were really happy with him going into the race, so whether it was the shifty track later in the day, we were scratching our heads a bit,” he said. “He seemed to have pulled-up fine, if he discovered that Crocetti form, he would be hard to beat in the 3YO 1600m down there. It does look like a nice soft race for him. “Similar case with Maven Belle, we thought she’d go a lot better than that in the Concorde (Group 3, 1200m) but she never really rounded off, whether it was the track, we aren’t sure. “Her work since has been faultless and the blinkers go on her, we’ll probably ride her quite conservatively and hope for a good performance, because on her day she is a Group 1 winner.” Horse racing news View the full article

Group 2 Auckland Cup (3200m) aspirant Mark Twain. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Roger James and Robert Wellwood already have the $1.40 favourite for the Group 1 New Zealand Derby (2400m), and a trip to Otaki this weekend could earn them an even greater share of the spotlight during the upcoming Ellerslie carnival. James and Wellwood’s impressive last-start winner Mark Twain will run in Saturday’s $50,000 New Zealand St Leger Trial (2300m), which he will use as a lead-up to the $500,000 Group 2 Auckland Cup (3200m) on March 9. Mark Twain showed real ability as a three-year-old last season, winning twice before flashing home for fourth in Sharp ‘N’ Smart’s New Zealand Derby at Te Rapa. The son of Shocking finished midfield in the Group 1 Australian Derby (2400m) on a heavy Randwick track at the beginning of April, then was given a long break by James and Wellwood. After resuming with a fourth over 1400m on November 30 and then a third over 2040m on January 11, Mark Twain took a big step forward with a brilliant finishing burst from well off the pace to win a 2100m Rating 75 at Te Rapa on February 10. Bookmakers now rates Mark Twain a $7 chance for the Auckland Cup, sharing second favouritism with his stablemate Dionysus. The $5 favourite is last weekend’s Group 2 Avondale Cup (2400m) winner Asterix. Wellwood reported on Friday that Kingsclere Stables has been pleased with Mark Twain’s progress through the early stages of his four-year-old campaign. “He’s still learning how to do things in the right fashion, but if he gets a bit of luck and the gaps appear at the right times, he does possess a very good turn of foot,” he said. “He showed that at Te Rapa and won quite impressively. “We’ve been really happy with him since that race. He’s in grand order and is working well.” James and Wellwood entered Mark Twain for three different races this weekend, including the Listed Matamata Veterinary Services Equine Kaimai Stakes (2000m) at Matamata, but picked out the St Leger Trial as the best Auckland Cup lead-up. “We nominated him in a few different races, just trying to work out what might suit him best leading into the Auckland Cup in a couple of weeks’ time,” Wellwood said. “There were a couple of reasons why we ended up opting for this race. One is that it’s probably the most suitable distance at 2300m, and another factor is the smaller field. He drew wide in that big field at Matamata and would have had to get a long way back. This race just looked like the most suitable step for him as we work towards an Auckland Cup.” Mark Twain will be joined at Otaki by his stablemate Achieve, who will line up in the Harcourts Otaki Handicap (2200m). The daughter of Pierro placed in the Group 2 Fillies’ Classic (2000m), Group 3 Eulogy Stakes (1600m) and Group 3 Sunline Vase (2100m) as a three-year-old. She struggled for consistency in her four-year-old campaign last season, but has shown promise with two placings from her three starts so far in this new preparation. “We’ve been really happy with her,” Wellwood said. “She’s an honest mare who we think will be suited by the 2200m on Saturday. We’re hoping she’s not far away from putting her hoof in the till.” Meanwhile, Wellwood has mixed feelings leading into next Saturday’s New Zealand Derby at Ellerslie. The stable’s star filly Orchestral has towered over the prestigious classic since her dominant performance in the Group 2 Avondale Guineas (2100m) last weekend. “It’s a very exciting position to be in, although it’s a bit nerve-racking as well,” he said. “But she just keeps getting better and better as we go along, and last weekend was quite a special performance to watch. “At this stage we’re really happy with how her Derby build-up has gone. She’ll probably gallop in the morning, and then we may not have to do much more with her through the week leading into the race.” Horse racing news View the full article

Bodyguard ridden by Mark Zahra wins the Blue Diamond Prelude (C&G) at Caulfield. (Photo by Scott Barbour/Racing Photos) One of the top contenders for Saturday’s Blue Diamond Stakes has been pulled out by Racing Victoria stewards due to Bodyguard failing a veterinary examination for the second time on Friday morning. On Thursday, the RV veterinary team had flagged concerns about the unbeaten colt’s lameness. Despite an independent vet being involved, Bodyguard’s condition hadn’t improved by Friday’s reassessment. James Harron, a part-owner who secured the colt for AUD$1.6 million, refrained from commenting directly on the decision. However, he confirmed that Fearless, another colt owned by the same interests, would still compete in the AUD$2 million Group 1 race. “The Peter and Paul Snowden-trained Bodyguard was reinspected today by a panel of three veterinarians (two from RV and one independent) after displaying signs of lameness yesterday,” the Racing Victoria statement read. “The colt had not improved and again presented with lameness. “Accordingly, Bodyguard will be withdrawn from the race by RV Stewards acting on veterinary advice.” Bodyguard had maintained an impeccable record, winning the Listed Maribyrnong Trial Stakes at Flemington in October and securing victory in the Group 3 Blue Diamond Prelude at Caulfield last start. With Bodyguard’s withdrawal, the first emergency, In Her Eyes, will now have a chance to participate, representing Leon and Troy Corstens. RV veterinarians gave the green light to all other Blue Diamond Stakes runners on Thursday, except for Zestiman from Lindsay Park and Kuroyanagi from the Will Clarken and Niki O’Shea stable, who underwent their first examinations and were both deemed fit to race on Friday morning. Horse racing news View the full article

The Group 1 Futurity Stakes 2024 at Caulfield on Saturday shapes up as a one-horse race, with Mr Brightside the overwhelming favourite at $1.55 through Ladbrokes. C.F. Orr Stakes winner Mr Brightside looks primed to win again in the 2024 Futurity Stakes. Photo: Ultimate Racing Photos. This weight-for-age champion from Lindsay Park is coming off a thrilling victory in the CF Orr Stakes and boasts an undefeated record (4-0) at Caulfield over the 1400m distance. Mr Brightside seeks his sixth Group 1 victory ahead of his All-Star Mile title defence. With Craig Williams in the saddle from a favourable barrier five, he looks poised to repeat his CF Orr – Futurity Stakes double feat last achieved by Black Heart Bart (2017). Attrition ($8.50), trained by Mitchell Freedman, emerges as the only real contender according to the bookies. This lightly raced four-year-old recently won the Group 1 Toorak Handicap and could pose a challenge. Pericles ($10) and Nugget ($10) are outsiders with potential. Pericles, trained by Godolphin, seeks his first win since last September and has shown promise in recent Group races. Nugget, trained by Ciaron Maher, has a history of running well against Mr Brightside and could surprise. The race is set to run as Caulfield Race 7 at 3:40pm (AEDT). Don’t miss this clash as Mr Brightside attempts to solidify his dominance in the weight-for-age ranks! 2024 Futurity Stakes Field No Last 10 Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight Probable Weight Penalty Hcp Rating 1 1x111222x1 MR BRIGHTSIDE (NZ) Ben, Will & JD Hayes Craig Williams 5 59kg 118 2 292x1132x6 PERICLES James Cummings Ms Jamie Kah 1 59kg 108 3 7x128x3017 MUNHAMEK (GB) Nick Ryan Blake Shinn 4 59kg 106 4 1823x2319x DOM TO SHOOT Sean & Jake Casey Damian Lane 6 59kg 110 5 13553x404x NUGGET (GB) Ciaron Maher Mark Zahra 2 59kg 105 6 x901410x33 BUFFALO RIVER (USA) Michael Moroney Ms Celine Gaudray (a) 7 59kg 105 7 1152x5201x ATTRITION Mitchell Freedman Ben Melham 8 59kg 108 8 6086×1145 HEY FAT CAT Robbie Laing 3 55.5kg 71 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 2024 Futurity Stakes Field: Mr Brightside Poised for Glory at Caulfield appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

The Oakleigh Plate 2024 at Caulfield promises a thrilling clash between established stars and rising talents this Blue Diamond Stakes Day. Three-year-old King’s Gambit heads 2024 Oakleigh Plate betting to beat home the older horses fresh at Caulfield. Photo: Steve Hart. King’s Gambit, the Peter & Paul Snowden-trained I Am Invincible colt, leads the charge as the $4.50 favourite in the latest markets on the Group 1 $750,000 sprint over 1100m at Ladbrokes. King’s Gambit aims to become the first three-year-old Oakleigh Plate winner since Portland Sky (2021). He boasts a win at Caulfield and impressive Sydney form, including a Group 1 Golden Slipper Stakes third. After a dominant Group 2 Roman Consul Stakes victory, he returns fresh with a lightweight (50kg) and a dream barrier (1) to overcome. Asfoora, the $6 second favourite in the markets at Ladbrokes, seeks redemption after a narrow defeat in the Group 2 Rubiton Stakes. This Flying Artie mare trained by Henry Dwyer boasts a strong track record at Caulfield and the distance. Benedetta ($9) and Sghirripa ($9.50) are other contenders to watch. Benedetta, trained by Jason Warren, is a Group 3 winner with consistent form. Sghirripa, trained by Shane & Cassie Oxlade, has won four of his last five starts, most recently dominating the Group 3 Standish Handicap at Flemington in January. Rey Magnerio ($11), Kallos ($12), and Najem Suhail ($14) offer potential value with their recent form and racing styles. The race is set to run as Caulfield Race 9 at 4:55pm (AEDT) on Saturday. Don’t miss this exciting battle between speed and experience! 2024 Oakleigh Plate Field No Last 10 Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight Probable Weight Penalty Hcp Rating 1 9x1117x7x1 KALLOS James Cummings Blake Shinn 15 58kg 108 2 344x1219x2 ASFOORA Henry Dwyer Mitchell Aitken 11 57.5kg 111 3 122x21615x SKEW WIFF (NZ) Mark Walker Craig Williams 3 55.5kg 107 4 1145×11311 SGHIRRIPA Shane & Cassie Oxlade Craig Newitt 13 55kg 102 5 99464x370x CHAIN OF LIGHTNING Peter G Moody & Katherine Coleman 10 53.5kg 103 6 x119431222 NAJEM SUHAIL Robbie Griffiths & Mathew de Kock Ms Celine Gaudray (a) 8 53.5kg 99 7 1×21623123 RECOMMENDATION Ciaron Maher Declan Bates 4 53.5kg 99 8 1113x1134x BENEDETTA Jason Warren Daniel Stackhouse 5 53kg 102 9 x1221x5161 BRUDENELL Kris Lees Daniel Moor 6 52kg 96 10 73x24221x4 HYPOTHETICAL Anthony & Sam Freedman Michael Dee 9 52kg 97 11 x497x1117x LEMPICKA Ken & Kasey Keys Blaike McDougall 14 52kg 93 12 x212422115 MORNINGTON GLORY Gavin Bedggood Dean Yendall 7 52kg 85 13 2631x117x1 QUEMAN Shane & Cassie Oxlade Harry Coffey 2 52kg 94 14 113411121 REY MAGNERIO Robbie Griffiths & Mathew de Kock Jye McNeil 12 52kg 88 15 1x233x31x KING’S GAMBIT Peter & Paul Snowden Ms Jamie Kah 1 50kg 95 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 King’s Gambit Leads Oakleigh Plate Betting, Tipped to Conquer the Older Guard appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

The Blue Diamond Stakes 2024 at Caulfield this Saturday promises a thrilling showdown between two-year-old stars. A talented field of future champions will vie for the $2 million prize and the coveted title in this Group 1 race. Coleman is favourite in 2024 Blue Diamond Stakes betting this weekend. Photo: Ultimate Racing Photos. Leading the charge is Coleman, trained by Matt Laurie. This nicely-bred Pierata colt boasts a perfect record (2-0) and enjoys course specialist status at Caulfield. After impressive victories in the Listed Debutant Stakes and the Group 3 Chairman’s Stakes, he aims to become the first horse since Extreme Choice (2016) to complete the Chairman’s Stakes – Blue Diamond Stakes double. Currently the favourite at $3.90 through Ladbrokes, he’ll be ridden by Ben Melham from barrier seven. Lady Of Camelot, trained by Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott, emerges as a strong contender at $4.80 in the markets at Ladbrokes. This Written Tycoon filly aims to become the first Blue Diamond winner since Lyre (2019) to defeat the colts. With an eye-catching debut and a dominant win in the Group 3 Widden Stakes, she boasts Sydney form and draws well in barrier four with Adam Hyeronimus in the saddle. However, she’ll need to adapt to Melbourne racing and outmuscle the boys. Peter & Paul Snowden bring two promising colts to the race with Bodyguard ($6.50) and High Octane ($7.50). Bodyguard seeks to become the first colt since Written By (2018) to win the Prelude-Blue Diamond double. High Octane looks to bounce back from a fifth-place finish in the Prelude. For value seekers key fillies at better odds include the Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman-trianed Chairman’s Stakes runner-up Eneeza ($12), Kuroyanagi ($15), and Matisse ($20) offer potential upsets. The race is set to run as Caulfield Race 8 at 4:15pm (AEDT) on Saturday’s 10-race card. Don’t miss this electrifying clash of future racing stars! 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 Blue Diamond Stakes 2024 Betting Update: Undefeated Coleman Faces Stiff Challenge appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

What Alice Springs Races Where Pioneer Park Racecourse, Stuart Highway, Connellan NT 0870 When Saturday, February 24, 2024 First Race 1:34pm ACST Visit Dabble With the Alice Springs Cup Carnival imminent, the action in the Red Centre continues with 50 horses accepting for Saturday’s seven-event program. The feature race is over 1100m for runners eyeing the Pioneer Sprint (1200m) on April 6. Central Australia is in the midst of a heatwave with the mercury nudging 40C this week, and it will be 38C come race day. The rail will be in the true position and Pioneer Park will again be a good dirt surface. BEST BET: DON’T BE DRAMATIC In another race for the three-year-olds leading up to the NT Guineas (1600m) on March 23, Don’t Be Dramatic is a class above. The son of Super One debuted in the NT on January 14 when he saluted over 1000m before a last-start second by 0.8 lengths behind Devilry in a special conditions race over 1000m. He was a -166.67 favourite that day, but Don’t Be Dramatic hit back two weeks ago against his own age group over 1100m when he spotted his rivals 4kg en route to victory by 4.3 lengths as a -285.71 favourite with online bookies. Bad luck appears to be Don’t Be Dramatic’s only concern. Best Bet Race 3 – #2 Don’t Be Dramatic (4) 3yo Gelding | T: Dan Morgan | J: Paul Denton (60.5kg) Bet with Bet365 NEXT BEST: VENTING This son of Star Witness cruised to a 2.5-length win over 1600m two weeks ago. That made it three wins and four minor placings from seven starts at Pioneer Park for the five-year-old gelding, while his record over the mile now stands at three wins and three seconds from eight starts. It’s unlikely that Venting will get away with daring tactics on this occasion, but he is racing well and the fact he will carry an extra 2kg should not be a major burden. Next Best Race 7 – #1 Venting (2) 5yo Gelding | T: Kerry Petrick | J: Paul Denton (61kg) Bet with Neds BEST VALUE: MIGHTY MURT Mighty Murt was far from disgraced a fortnight ago when a narrow fourth over 1100m, and his early [rm_geo_odd val=9] quote with the top betting sites is hard to ignore. The six-year-old gelding was the +145 favourite that day and sat three deep after sharing the early lead before slipping back to third place passing the 400m. The son of Murtajill appeared to be fading, but in the home straight he found his second wind and was working home nicely before suffering interference at the 100m. That gritty effort came after a run of four wins in six starts. Best Value Race 5 – #4 Mighty Murt (3) 6yo Gelding | T: Lisa Whittle | J: Sonja Logan (59kg) Bet with Unibet Saturday NT quaddie tips – 24/2/2024 Alice Springs quadrella selections Saturday, February 24, 2024 1-6-7-8-9 1-3-4-5 2-3-4-5 1-3 Horse racing tips View the full article

Friday, February 23 promises an exciting day of horse racing with eight meetings scheduled across Australia. Our dedicated team of racing analysts at horsebetting.com.au has curated the top bets and provided quaddie numbers specifically for the upcoming Canterbury & Moonee Valley. Friday Racing Tips – February 23, 2024 Canterbury Racing Tips Moonee Valley Racing Tips Best Horse Racing Bets For February 23, 2024 Place these horse racing bets in a multi for $212.38 odds return: Friday, February 23, 2024 Canterbury – Race 5 #3 Morning Sun Canterbury – Race 7 #5 Dipsy Doodle Moonee Valley – Race 3 #2 Kind Gesture Moonee Valley – Race 4 #1 Zamborghini | Copy this bet straight to your betslip For avid Australian racing fans, numerous promotions await your exploration. Be sure to peruse the offerings from top online bookmakers, as daily promotions can enhance your horse racing experience. If you’re in search of a new bookmaker to elevate your horse racing ventures on February 23, 2024, consult our comprehensive guide to the finest online racing betting sites. We’re committed to keeping you informed and enhancing your horse racing betting journey. Horse racing tips View the full article

After watching the jockey ride a Lunar New Year double, South Australian trainer Will Clarken was quick to offer him the Group One mount aboard KuroyanagiView the full article

The Road, contenders on the Triple Crown trailView the full article

This feature provides a capsule look at three horses who are heating up on the Triple Crown trail and three horses whose chances for the 2024 Kentucky Derby (G1) are not quite as strong as they were a few weeks ago.View the full article

This Saturday’s juvenile features at Matamata are set to paint a clearer picture for upcoming Group One targets, and Te Akau Racing co-trainer Sam Bergerson is hoping for good showings from his high-class trio. Bergerson, who trains in partnership with Mark Walker, will prepare Move To Strike and Unbridled Joy in the Gr.3 Fairview Matamata Slipper (1200m), while unbeaten filly Captured By Love will attempt a fourth-straight victory in the Gr.2 J Swap Contractors Ltd Matamata Breeders’ Stakes (1200m). A son of I Am Invincible, Move To Strike justified his scorching $1.20 favouritism on debut in December, but succumbed to talented stablemate Bellatrix Star at a similar quote in the Gr.2 SkyCity Eclipse Stakes (1200m) on New Year’s Day. “He was a very short-priced favourite that day and got rolled, but Bellatrix Star and Velocious were right there in the blanket finish, so it is very good form,” Bergerson said. “He’s just such a laid-back customer at home, we would’ve loved to get a trial into him between then and Saturday, but unfortunately with how the schedule has worked out, getting a grass trial didn’t work out. “He had an exhibition gallop at Matamata mid-week last week instead, and his work was super with an older horse. Opie (Bosson, jockey) rode him that day, and was pleased with him. “The blinkers go on, and we hope this will sharpen him up a bit. He’s a colt we’ve always had a lot of time for.” Punters have remained faithful to Move To Strike, backing him into $1.80 favouritism, while Bergerson is not discounting the chances of stablemate Unbridled Joy, who currently sits as the $7 equal third-favourite with Sam Weatherley engaged to ride. Unbridled Joy finished only behind fellow Te Akau runner When Stars Align on debut, and soon found the winner’s circle at his next attempt, with little favours in the running. “He’s certainly gone the right way since his win, he found a lot of trouble that day and still managed to get himself out of it and find the line really well,” Bergerson said. “Sam rode him on Tuesday and his work was super, he’s improved a lot and should be a nice chance as well, albeit in a strong field. He’s got a nice barrier (2), he should get a lovely run in behind the speed on Saturday.” Te Akau have claimed six of the last eight editions of the Matamata Slipper, most recently last year’s race with champion two-year-old Tokyo Tycoon. “It is a small field this year, but there is quality in there with Karaka Million form, and Cambridge Stud’s colts (Red Sea and I’m All In). It’s going to shape up as a very interesting race,” Bergerson said. The fillies’ race promises an exciting match-up between Captured By Love, and Listed Wellesley Stakes (1100m) victor Archaic Smile, alongside the Kelsos emphatic debut winner Alabama Lass. A daughter of Written Tycoon, Captured By Love left her rivals fighting for minor placings in the Gr.2 Wakefield Challenge Stakes (1100m) at Trentham, and overcame unfavourable conditions at Taranaki to score the Gr.3 Taranaki 2YO Classic (1200m) on February 3. “She didn’t love the heavy track at New Plymouth, but she toughed it out and class got her over the line. She had a nice quiet week after that, and her work on Tuesday was good with Opie on the course proper,” Bergerson said. “It’s hard to line-up the form in the Breeders’, but we’ve got the experience and runs on the board and we’re really happy with her. There are some high-quality fillies’ there and the group one picture following Saturday will become a lot clearer.” Bergerson indicated each of the Te Akau two-year-olds would be aimed at the Gr.1 Sistema Stakes (1200m) at Ellerslie on March 9, while all hold nominations for the Gr.1 Manawatu Sires’ Produce (1400m) three weeks’ later at Trentham. “Getting through Saturday, the logical race for the three of them is the Sistema Stakes, but whether we split them up or not, we’re still not sure. They’ll have to run well, but ideally they’ll head in that direction,” he said. Te Akau will also be represented by capable duo Aotea Lad and Accidental Tourist in the Listed Matamata Veterinary Services Equine Kaimai Stakes (2000m), partnered by Bosson and Billy Jacobson respectively. “Aotea Lad produced a good tough run at Ellerslie on Saturday, he did a lot of work from a wide barrier but stuck on really well. We’ve taken a throw at the stumps with the quick back-up, but he seems in good form, carries a lot of condition and handles his racing well,” Bergerson said. “Accidental Tourist was well outclassed in the Aotearoa Classic, but on his day he is a very nice horse. It’s his first run over ground, it should be interesting, but if he discovers his best form, I wouldn’t be surprised if he could run a cheeky race.” After puzzling performances on Karaka Millions evening, Bergerson is hoping for an improved showing from Group One performers Talisker and Maven Belle at Otaki on Saturday. “Talisker was a bit disappointing in the Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m), we were really happy with him going into the race, so whether it was the shifty track later in the day, we were scratching our heads a bit,” he said. “He seemed to have pulled-up fine, if he discovered that Crocetti form, he would be hard to beat in the 3YO 1600m down there. It does look like a nice soft race for him. “Similar case with Maven Belle, we thought she’d go a lot better than that in the Concorde (Gr.3, 1200m) but she never really rounded off, whether it was the track, we aren’t sure. “Her work since has been faultless and the blinkers go on her, we’ll probably ride her quite conservatively and hope for a good performance, because on her day she is a Group One winner.” View the full article

Waikato hoop Vinnie Colgan will trek down to Otaki on Saturday to partner exciting four-year-old Desert Lightning in the Gr.1 Trackside Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m), and he is hoping his charge can live up to his favourite’s tag. The Peter and Dawn Williams-trained gelding has been a standout this season, winning all but one of his four starts, including the Gr.1 TAB Classic (1600m) at Trentham in December and the inaugural $1 million Aotearoa Classic (1600m) at Ellerslie last month. TAB bookmakers have the Pride Of Dubai gelding as a $2.50 fixed-odds favourite, with last start Gr.1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) victor Puntura on the second line of betting at $5. Colgan has been aboard Desert Lightning in all four starts this season and has been impressed with the way he has developed since his three-year-old term where he posted a solid record of a win and four placings from nine starts, including victory in the Gr.2 Avondale Guineas (2100m) and placings in the Gr.1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m), Karaka Million 3YO Classic (1600m), and Gr.3 Manawatu Classic (2000m). “He was a nice three-year-old and still ran well in the bigger races last season, but this year he is just a different horse. He is so much stronger and his manners (are a lot better),” Colgan told TAB NZ. Colgan rode Desert Lightning in an exhibition gallop at Ellerslie last Saturday and is pleased with the gelding ahead of his Group One assignment. “He had a really nice gallop at Ellerslie on the weekend and galloped brilliant. I am really looking forward to this weekend,” he said. “As long as there is a bit of speed in the race, that will help him out a bit. He is definitely the horse to beat.” View the full article

Horse racing bookmakers have unveiled an array of enticing racing promotions for Friday, February 23. Among the highlights are multiple generous bonus back offers that add an extra layer of excitement to your horse racing experience. Explore these free promotions from top online bookmakers to make the most of your betting opportunities. The top Australian racing promotions for February 23, 2024, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions Moonee Valley Races 1-2 – Run 2nd or 3rd Bonus Back up to $50 Back a runner in races 1 & 2 at Moonee Valley this Friday and if it runs 2nd or 3rd get up to $50 in Bonus Cash. Fixed Win bets only. Neds T&Cs apply. Login to Neds to Claim Promo Moonee Valley Races 1-4 Bonus Back 2nd & 3rd Get your stake back in bonus bets. Limits apply. General T&Cs apply. Login to PlayUp to Claim Promo Odds Drift Protector If the price at the jump is bigger than the price that you took, we will pay you out at the bigger odds Eligible customers. T&C’s apply. Login to Bet365 to Claim Promo Moonee Valley & Canterbury All Races – 25% Boosted Winnings Paid in Bonus Cash. First Fixed Win Cash Bet. Max Bonus $250. Picklebet T&Cs apply. Login to PickleBet to Claim Promo 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% with new Daily Trifecta Boosts. Thoroughbreds only. T&Cs apply. Login to UniBet to Claim Promo Bonus Back 2nd or 3rd R1-3 at Sandown & Hawkesbury Auto-applied in Bet Slip. Promotional limits apply. Min 6 runners. Fixed odds only. T&Cs apply. Login to UniBet to Claim Promo How does horsebetting.com.au source its racing bonus offers? HorseBetting.com.au has meticulously assessed the premier horse racing bookmakers in Australia, unveiling exclusive thoroughbred bonus promotions and specials tailored for Friday, February 23, 2024. These horse racing promotions are a consistent feature, underscoring the unwavering commitment of Australia’s top horse racing bookmakers. In the world of horse racing betting, if one bookmaker isn’t currently running a promotion, rest assured that another is making the most out of promotional offers. Your ultimate resource for the most lucrative horse racing bookmaker bonuses every day is HorseBetting.com.au. Gain the most value out of your punting endeavours by leveraging bookie bonuses, accompanied by the most competitive horse racing odds available for each race. It’s crucial to note that these thoroughbred racing promotion offers are exclusively designed for existing customers. To access these special promotions and claim the bookmaker’s offers, simply log in to each online bookmaker’s platform. For those on the lookout for races and horses to optimise their horse betting bookmaker bonus bets, HorseBetting provides a valuable resource with its daily free racing tips. Horse racing promotions View the full article

Slow Down Andy, winner of the 2023 Awesome Again Stakes (G1), has been retired, trainer Doug O'Neill said Feb. 22.View the full article

Last year's Eclipse champion 3-year-old filly Pretty Mischievous (f, 4, Into Mischief-Pretty City Dancer, by Tapit) recorded her first work since her championship campaign Thursday morning at Palm Meadows in Florida. The three furlongs she covered in :37.65 was her first breeze in nearly four months. “She went nice, just an easy three-eighths and galloped out a half-mile,” said trainer Brendan Walsh. “It went good and we are glad to get her back on the work tab. “We've done plenty of galloping with her the last few weeks at Palm Meadows to get a good bottom on her. She looks like she's done very well with her little break and we look forward to the year ahead.” Pretty Mischievous captured the GI Kentucky Oaks, GI Acorn S., and GI Test S. en route to championship honors. For more on her career and return to racing for another season, see our update earlier this month from Steve Sherack. Walsh indicated the 'TDN Rising Star' does not have a specific target as yet. “We'll just see how things fare down here,” he said. “We won't be in any rush with her. We'll let her tell us when she's ready.” Continued Walsh, “We are very proud of her. She was a tribute to everybody on the Godolphin team and my own team here. Hopefully she moves forward this year and I think we can have another very good year with her if she does.” The post Back to Work for Champion Pretty Mischievous appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article