Wandering Eyes

The sight of Mr Brightside (NZ) (Bullbars) bucking and playing up in his paddock has reassured the Lindsay Park team the weight-for-age star is perfectly on track for Saturday’s Gr.1 Futurity Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield. A week ago, Mr Brightside was feeling the effects of his heroic first-up Gr.1 C.F. Orr Stakes win, but co-trainer Ben Hayes confirmed on Sunday the most durable gelding was back bouncing and ready to race. “He’ll do a piece of work early this week and if we are happy, which I am 99 per cent sure we will be, he’ll be heading towards the Futurity,” Hayes said. “All’s on track. (We’re) very happy with him. He came through the race no problems at all, and he’s been bucking in his paddock and feeling good.” Mr Brightside is rated an even money chance by Sportsbet to add the Futurity crown to his growing list of achievements, after being beaten in the race 12 months ago by his currently injured arch-rival Alligator Blood. Hayes said that while his Orr win proved to be a tough first-up assignment, it was hardly something that Mr Brightside had not seen before. “It was interesting as first-up last prep, they actually went faster, and he came through that really well,” Hayes noted. “He’s a horse that just improves through his prep and he particularly does well two weeks between runs.” Indeed, Mr Brightside ran a blistering 1.21.71s last spring in his first-up Gr.2 Lawrence Stakes (1400m) victory and in the Orr earlier this month over the same course, he ran a time of 1.22.27s when nosing out Pride Of Jenni. “He’s a fit, consistent horse who tries and so is exactly what every trainer wants,” Hayes said. “We are very lucky to have him.” View the full article

After enduring a quiet spell, the Australian jockey has punched home five winners from his past 14 ridesView the full article

Driver Penalties J Dickie | Manawatu 13 February (heard Manawatu 15 February); careless driving; fined $300. N Delany | Manawatu 13 February (heard Manawatu 15 February); use of whip; suspended 17 February – 7 March inclusive. A Pyers | Manawatu 15 February; use of whip; fined $300. L Chin | Auckland 16 February; shifted into passing lane; suspended in run home; suspended 17 February – 1 March inclusive. S Phelan | Auckland 16 February; use of whip; suspended 17 February – 9 March inclusive. A Poutama | Auckland 16 February; contacted track marker; fined $100. M Holbrough | NZ Metropolitan 16 February; out of position at start; fined $100. S Thornley | NZ Metropolitan 16 February; contacted track marker; fined $100. K Newman | NZ Metropolitan 16 February; use of whip; fined $250. A Cameron | NZ Metropolitan 16 February (heard Rangiora 17 February); use of whip; suspended 18 February – 6 March inclusive. J Buckland-Stevens | Rangiora 17 February; use of whip; suspended 18 February – 17 March inclusive. P Wakelin | Rangiora 17 February; use of whip; suspended 18-29 February inclusive. T Nally | Wairio 11 February (heard Gore 18 February); careless driving; suspended 19-25 February inclusive. R McIlwrick | Gore 18 February; careless driving; fined $300. Horse Penalties SMOKINHOTCHEDDAR | Manawatu 15 February; late scratching on veterinary advice; veterinary clearance required. RANDEL HUSTON P | NZ Metropolitan 16 February; lame; veterinary clearance required. TAKE AFTER ME | Rangiora 17 February; broke in running; must complete trial. Protests SECRETS ABOUND | Manawatu 13 February; excessive galloping in home straight; disqualified from 2nd. MOONDANCE | NZ Metropolitan 16 February; denied a fair start; declared a non-runner. The post 12-18 February 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Ellerslie’s new StrathAyr track has certainly got the tick of approval from Daniel Nakhle and Barneswood Farm’s Sarah Green and Ger Beemsterboer, with their silks to the fore once more at the Auckland venue on Saturday. Daniel Nakhle tasted success on Karaka Millions night courtesy of Crocetti in the Gr.3 Almanzor Trophy (1200m), while Barneswood Farm’s orange and white silks were first past the post aboard Desert Lightning in the inaugural $1 million Aotearoa Classic (1600m) at the same meeting. Peter and Dawn Williams trained the latter victor and paired up with Barneswood Farm once more to take out the opening event at Ellerslie on Saturday with two-year-old filly Foreverintime (Written Tycoon). The daughter of Written Tycoon was purchased by her owners out of Curraghmore’s 2023 New Zealand Bloodstock Book 1 Yearling Sale draft for $320,000 and was making her debut in the Barfoot & Thompson 1100 after a couple of trials, including winning her 950m heat at Tauranga last month. She jumped away well from her ace barrier and found the trail for jockey Vinnie Colgan before Chance Encounter quickly rounded the fielded, pushing Foreverintime three back on the inside. Turning for home, Colgan found a gap between runners and Foreverintime continued to extend, heading leader Chance Encounter with 150m to go, and she was able to hold out the fast-finishing Hakushu to win by three-quarters of a length. Peter Williams said the filly still has a lot of maturing to do, but her natural ability shone through in her debut performance. “The draw helped her a little bit and he (Colgan) had to hunt her out,” Williams said. “She hadn’t had a lot of galloping because she was quite naughty getting into the gates, but once she is in, she is fine. I haven’t galloped her a lot because of that reason as it fires them up more. Most of it she has just done on her own raw ability. “She has shown us a lot in work. Since her last trial, she has improved in her galloping. It is very encouraging.” Colgan was pleased with the winning effort and believes the filly has a bright future instore. “Her trial form was quite nice and we used the one gate to our advantage. I was pretty kind to her in the run home, she won pretty easy,” he said. Byerley Park owner Daniel Nahkle. Photo: Race Images In the following race, Williams was back in the winning stall welcoming back the Nakhle bred and owned Pour The Wine (NZ) (Telperion). The daughter of Telperion had been undefeated in her two prior starts this season and her connections were pleased to see her comfortably extend that to three when taking out the Bentleys Chartered Accountants 1200 by 2-1/2 lengths under leading hoop Warren Kennedy. “It was a good speed and as long as I could get her relaxed, I knew she had that good turn of foot on her,” Kennedy said. “At the top of the straight she couldn’t wait to get out and once I showed her daylight, she put them to bed really quickly and easily. “Her previous season she didn’t quite find the line, she had that acceleration, but only for a short distance. She seems to sustain that over a longer period now, which is a huge plus for her.” Williams said a five-month spell last year has helped to bring the four-year-old mare on, and he is now looking toward the Auckland Cup meeting with his charge. “She has matured this year and has grown another leg,” he said. “Last season, we always felt she was a bit weak. We turned her out for a good five-month spell and that was the making of her. We brought her up quietly and she is starting to show her worth now. She has won well today. “We will play it by ear and see what happens, but there are a couple of nice races for her at the Auckland Cup meeting.” View the full article

Trainer Leslie Khoo could not be happier at the winner’s circle after Auspicious King (NZ) (Per Incanto) opened his account first-up in the S$20,000 Open Maiden race (1200m) at Kranji on Saturday. The Per Incanto three-year-old showed some potential after he placed twice from two starts last year in similar races over the same trip, but unfortunately suffered from a tendon injury. Five months after his last run, Auspicious King returned and ran second in a barrier trial on 6 February. That good trial run and his previous runs had punters rooting for him at favouritism. After he jumped fair from barrier four, Auspicious King was snagged back behind the leaders before coming out widest on the home turn and sweeping past the leaders with 100m to go and winning by one-and-three-quarters lengths. Mr Teo Peng Seng, the 81-year-old Singaporean owner and businessman was not at the races, but Khoo was glad to get another winner for this long-time supporter of Singapore and Malaysia racing, whose past handy gallopers included Trend Setter III, Happy Life II, Groovy II and Staff General. To get another win for Teo during the Chinese New Year period, a festive celebration that spans 15 days in the first month of the Lunar calendar was probably more of a happy coincidence, but Khoo was in high spirits at his second win this season after scoring with Tennet Tentennet on 6 January. “It’s good for the owner. He’s been an owner for very long, more than 50 years,” said the former top jockey. “He used to have about 10 horses here but stopped buying horses (Singapore Turf Club) after we want to close. He’s old now so he doesn’t come to the races but he enjoys racing and wants his horse to win. “This horse (Auspicious King) had some tendon issues so I had to let him rest for some time, but he’s got one second and one third over the same trip before. “He’s good at 1200m but he can go further to 1400m. I may look for a 1200m or 1400m race for him next. It can be on the Polytrack too. I think he can still win next time!” Bought for $60,000 as a two-year-old from the Kilgravin Lodge draft at the 2022 New Zealand Bloodstock Ready To Run Sale, Auspicious King’s first win in three starts has taken his earnings to over S$30,000 for connections. “I galloped him on Tuesday and he felt very good, so I thought he could win then,” said jockey Bruno Queiroz, who has chalked up 14 wins thus far, one more than fellow champion jockey Manoel Nunes. “He’s a very good horse and I was very confident because he also ran very well at his last race (second on 23 September). I watched his last trial and he ran very easy too. “He’s improving and can go longer in future.” Other New Zealand bred winners on Saturday include Nature Chief (NZ) (Time Test), Roda Robot (NZ) (Mongolian Khan), Silver Dragon (NZ) (Time Test), Per Incrown (NZ) (Per Incanto), & Energy Baby (NZ) (Rich Enuff). View the full article

Ellerslie’s new StrathAyr track has certainly got the tick of approval from Daniel Nakhle and Barneswood Farm’s Sarah Green and Ger Beemsterboer, with their silks to the fore once more at the Auckland venue on Saturday. Daniel Nakhle tasted success on Karaka Millions night courtesy of Crocetti in the Gr.3 Almanzor Trophy (1200m), while Barneswood Farm’s orange and white silks were first past the post aboard Desert Lightning in the inaugural $1 million Aotearoa Classic (1600m) at the same meeting. Peter and Dawn Williams trained the latter victor and paired up with Barneswood Farm once more to take out the opening event at Ellerslie on Saturday with two-year-old filly Foreverintime (Written Tycoon). The daughter of Written Tycoon was purchased by her owners out of Curraghmore’s 2023 New Zealand Bloodstock Book 1 Yearling Sale draft for $320,000 and was making her debut in the Barfoot & Thompson 1100 after a couple of trials, including winning her 950m heat at Tauranga last month. She jumped away well from her ace barrier and found the trail for jockey Vinnie Colgan before Chance Encounter quickly rounded the fielded, pushing Foreverintime three back on the inside. Turning for home, Colgan found a gap between runners and Foreverintime continued to extend, heading leader Chance Encounter with 150m to go, and she was able to hold out the fast-finishing Hakushu to win by three-quarters of a length. Peter Williams said the filly still has a lot of maturing to do, but her natural ability shone through in her debut performance. “The draw helped her a little bit and he (Colgan) had to hunt her out,” Williams said. “She hadn’t had a lot of galloping because she was quite naughty getting into the gates, but once she is in, she is fine. I haven’t galloped her a lot because of that reason as it fires them up more. Most of it she has just done on her own raw ability. “She has shown us a lot in work. Since her last trial, she has improved in her galloping. It is very encouraging.” Colgan was pleased with the winning effort and believes the filly has a bright future instore. “Her trial form was quite nice and we used the one gate to our advantage. I was pretty kind to her in the run home, she won pretty easy,” he said. Byerley Park owner Daniel Nahkle. Photo: Race Images In the following race, Williams was back in the winning stall welcoming back the Nakhle bred and owned Pour The Wine (NZ) (Telperion). The daughter of Telperion had been undefeated in her two prior starts this season and her connections were pleased to see her comfortably extend that to three when taking out the Bentleys Chartered Accountants 1200 by 2-1/2 lengths under leading hoop Warren Kennedy. “It was a good speed and as long as I could get her relaxed, I knew she had that good turn of foot on her,” Kennedy said. “At the top of the straight she couldn’t wait to get out and once I showed her daylight, she put them to bed really quickly and easily. “Her previous season she didn’t quite find the line, she had that acceleration, but only for a short distance. She seems to sustain that over a longer period now, which is a huge plus for her.” Williams said a five-month spell last year has helped to bring the four-year-old mare on, and he is now looking toward the Auckland Cup meeting with his charge. “She has matured this year and has grown another leg,” he said. “Last season, we always felt she was a bit weak. We turned her out for a good five-month spell and that was the making of her. We brought her up quietly and she is starting to show her worth now. She has won well today. “We will play it by ear and see what happens, but there are a couple of nice races for her at the Auckland Cup meeting.” View the full article

Local trainer Lisa Vaughan added to her proud record in a hometown feature when lightweight runner Lochnaberry (NZ) (Jakkalberry) scored a runaway victory in Saturday’s $60,000 Baillie & Lewis Pharmacy Invercargill Gold Cup (2600m). It was a second Invercargill Gold Cup win in the last three years for Vaughan, who saddled Asathought to take out the race in 2022. “It’s pretty cool to win the Gold Cup here for the second time in three years,” Vaughan said. “We’ve been lucky enough to have a couple of very handy stayers in the stable in recent times, so it’s been a good race to us.” In contrast to the seven-race winner Asathought, Lochnaberry went into this year’s race with a relatively modest record of three wins from 19 starts and a rating of 70. But she defied $10 odds and took her career to new heights with an emphatic three-length win. Apprentice jockey Bailey Rogerson reduced the five-year-old’s weight from 54kg to 51kg, and she settled in third along the rail as The Last Thyme set a sedate tempo in the early stages of the race. Lochnaberry was travelling well a long way from home, and Rogerson was unfazed as Verismo and Zambezi Zipper surged out of the pack to put some speed into the race down the side of the track. Lochnaberry pounced soon after straightening for home and drew away down the straight to win with ease. “The step up to 2600m was definitely what she really needed today, and probably even longer distances too,” said Vaughan, who also shares in the ownership of the Cup winner. “She just settles so well and keeps going. The further, the better. “It was a good win today, albeit with a nice light weight on her back and probably not against the strongest of fields. But it’s a really good result and hopefully something we can build on as we get her rating up and start taking on some better horses in the future. “As a long-term goal, I’d really like to have a go at the New Zealand Cup (Gr.3, 3200m) next spring. I think that’s an ideal race for her. I probably won’t do a whole lot more with her in this current campaign – maybe something like the Riverton Cup (2147m) and then a good, long break. I think she’ll have an even better season next season, so that’s something to look forward to.” Lochnaberry is by Jakkalberry and was bred by Novara Park principal Luigi Muollo under his Explosive Breeding banner. Her 20-start career has now produced four wins, three placings and $95,795 in prizemoney View the full article

Talented performer Ears Back (NZ) (Jakkalberry) maintained her perfect record at Invercargill when she produced a game effort to take out the Cruickshank Pryde Southland Stakes (1400m). The John Blackadder-trained five-year-old was shooting for her third victory from as many attempts at the venue but had to overcome a wide barrier (8 of 9) and a line-up that included race favourite The Radiant One who was also sporting an unbeaten two from two form-line on the track. The Radiant One set up a solid pace in front with Lisa Allpress working Ears Back across to sit on her outer before applying the pressure rounding the home bend. The Radiant One fought strongly but Ears Back had her measure and drove clear to win by more than a length as Watch Out and Green Luck finished strongly to take third and fourth respectively. Blackadder, who had taken a three-strong team south from his Rangiora base, was delighted with the performance of the mare that he also part-owns. “It’s a long way to come, an eight-hour trip, but she loves it down here and has now won three from her three visits,” Blackadder said. “It was a good field and the runner-up is a very smart horse but she thrived on the trip down and hasn’t turned a hair since we got here on Thursday. “I’m lucky as I can stay at Bruce Laking’s place and keep her away from the hustle and bustle of the track. Bruce had a winner as well (Molly Shaw).” Blackadder now has his sights set on two feature events closer to home with next month’s Gr.3 Valachi Downs South Island Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) at Riccarton first up on his play list. “We brought her down here as it was the most suitable race to get her ready for Riccarton,” he said. “She has had a great hit-out and a decent trip here and back so her fitness will be right up to the mark. “Her target after the Breeders’ Stakes is the new $350,000 race at Riccarton in April so she has a big couple of months ahead of her.” Blackadder was referring to the inaugural $350,000 Southern Alps Challenge (1600m), a new innovation event to be run at Riccarton on April 13 for horses that have their trainers operating a premises in the South Island from August 1 last year, have been stabled at that premises since December 31 and have run at least twice in the South Island since that date. Out of the Grass Wonder mare Makesmewonder, Ears Back is the younger half-sister to four race winner Smoke House Bay and hails from an extended family that boasts Japanese Group Three winner Felicia and dual French Group Three winner Gagnoa. She has now won six of her 20 starts and more than $144,000 in prizemoney. View the full article

Dog Penalties IMPRESSIVE ROAR | Southland 14 February; marring; stood down for 28 days and must complete trial. HELENA JET | Waikato 15 February; unsatisfactory performance; must complete trial. The post 12-18 February 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Rider Penalties J Kamaruddin | Taupo 14 February; medical clearance required. T Newman | Taranaki 16 February; careless riding; suspended 25 February – 3 March inclusive. V Colgan | Auckland 17 February; careless riding; suspended 25 February – 8 March inclusive and fined $400. V Colgan | Auckland 17 February; use of whip; fined $1,400. T Mitchell | Wairoa 18 February; use of whip; fined $600. T Newman | Wairoa 18 February; medical clearance required. Trainer Penalty S Marsh | Auckland 17 February; late rider declaration; fined $200. Horse Penalties REBECCHI | Auckland 17 February; cardiac arrhythmia; veterinary clearance required. LADY SASS | Southland 17 February; refused to jump; must complete trial. The post 12-18 February 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Racing with blinkers for the first time and making his first start as a 3-year-old, Sierra Leone catches Track Phantom to win the $400,000 Risen Star Stakes (G2) Feb. 17 at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots.View the full article

If her commanding performance in the Rachel Alexandra Stakes (G2) was any indication, Tarifa stands a fair chance at duplicating Pretty Mischievous' feat in the Kentucky Oaks (G1).View the full article

Racing with blinkers for the first time and making his first start as a 3-year-old, Sierra Leone catches Track Phantom to win the $400,000 Risen Star Stakes (G2) Feb. 17 at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots.View the full article

It took him nearly the entire length of the Fair Grounds stretch to do it but 'TDN Rising Star' SIERRA LEONE (c, 3, Gun Runner–Heavenly Love, by Malibu Moon) got up in time to nail Track Phantom (Quality Road) and steal a win in the GII Risen Star. S. Earning 50 points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby, the Chad Brown trainee and 5-2 shot closed past the pacesetter in the shadow of the wire. Catching Freedom (Constitution) checked in third. Lifetime Record: 3-2-1-0. O-Magnier, Mrs. John, Tabor, Michael B., Smith, Derrick, Westerberg, Smith, Brook T. and Brant, Peter M.; B-Debby M. Oxley; T-Brad Cox. Sales History: $2,300,000 ylg '22 FTSAUG. #4 SIERRA LEONE ($7.40) earns 50 Kentucky Derby points with a victory in the Risen Star (G2)! The three-year-old Gun Runner colt rebounds from his 2nd in the Remsen (G2) to get his first graded victory. He is trained by Chad Brown and was ridden by @Tyler_Gaff. #KyDerby2024 pic.twitter.com/KKfv38MwUm — TVG (@TVG) February 18, 2024 The post Sierra Leone Chases Down Track Phantom To Steal Risen Star appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Money Supply notches a fifth consecutive victory in upsetting favored Best Actor by a head in the $247,500 Mineshaft Stakes (G3) Feb. 17 at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots.View the full article

Godolphin homebred TARIFA (f, 3, Bernardini–Kite Beach, by Awesome Again) unleashed a powerful stretch drive to out-finish race favorite Intricate (Gun Runner) and win the GII Rachel Alexandra S. at Fair Grounds Saturday. Stepping into stakes company for the first time, Tarifa picked up 50 points on the Road to the Kentucky Oaks with the victory. Gun Runner fillies finished second and third as race favorite Intricate followed in the winner while Perfect Shot filled the trifecta. Lifetime Record: 4-3-0-0. #1 Tarifa takes on stakes company for the first time and earns 50 points towards the Kentucky Oaks in the Rachel Alexandra S. @fairgroundsnola for trainer @bradcoxracing with Flavien Prat aboard! #TwinSpiresReplay #FG152 @johngdooley pic.twitter.com/pSERoU0Y76 — TwinSpires Racing (@TwinSpires) February 18, 2024 O/B-Godolphin; T-Brad Cox. The post Tarifa Splashes Home In Rachel Alexandra appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A field of 11–ten males and a single American-bred filly–head to the post for Sunday's $243,343 Listed Hyacinth S. going a one-turn 1600 meters at Tokyo Racecourse. The race serves as the third of four legs on the Japan Road to the Kentucky Derby and will award the winner 30 points towards a berth in the field at Churchill Downs on the first Saturday in May. Sheikh Mohammed's worldwide Godolphin operation won the 2022 Hyacinth with their homebred Combustion (Jpn) (Discreet Cat) and is represented Sunday afternoon by that colt's full-brother Unquenchable (Jpn). The chestnut defeated Logi Adelaide (Jpn) (Drefong) to win his maiden at second asking over this course and distance Oct. 27 and checked in a good third behind Amante Bianco (Jpn) (Henny Hughes) in the first leg of the local series, the Cattleya Sho (allowance) last November, picking up three Derby points. Unquenchable, a latest second to the talented American-bred Sonic Star (Into Mischief) over track and trip Jan. 27, is favored at just north of 2-1 and has the services of Christophe Lemaire from gate 11. Logi Adelaide proceeded to run second in his next start Nov. 4, but put it all together when romping home by seven lengths as the 2-5 chalk Nov. 26. Ballon d'Or (Jpn) (New Year's Day) is the only member of Sunday's field to already have earned black-type via his close third-place finish behind Ammothyella (Jpn) (Bricks and Mortar) and Ecoro Gaia (Speightstown) in the Listed Bluebird Cup at Funabashi Racecourse Jan. 17. The bay was purchased for over $650,000 as a foal at the 2021 JRHA Select Sale. Sunday's winner will leap-frog to the top of the standings on the Japan Road to the Kentucky Derby, with just the Mar. 23 Fukuryu S. (allowance) at Nakayama remaining. The current leader, Forever Young (Jpn) (Real Steel {Jpn}), runs in next Saturday's G3 Saudi Derby, while second-placed Amante Bianco was second in the Feb. 14 Kumotori Sho, an allowance race at Ohi Racecourse that was outside the Derby series. The post Godolphin Homebred Looks To Keep Hyacinth S. All In the Family appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Final Furlong Farm and Madaket Stables' Honor D Lady opened a commanding lead in the stretch and easily hung on to win the $154,000 Royal Delta Stakes (G3) at Gulfstream Park Feb. 17.View the full article

What Muswellbrook Races Where Muswellbrook Race Club – Skellatar Park, 15 Racecourse Rd, Muswellbrook NSW 2333 When Monday, February 19, 2024 First Race 1:55pm AEDT Visit Dabble The new week of racing is set to get underway at Muswellbrook on Monday afternoon, where a competitive seven-race program awaits punters. The rail is out +3m between the 1000m to 300m marker, while the remainder is in the true position. The weather seems to be a mix of mostly cloudy with a speck of rain in the region, so anticipate the course to be somewhere in the Soft range for race-day. The opening event is scheduled for 1:55pm local time. Best Bet at Muswellbrook: Dale There was no doubt the debut of Dale at Randwick-Kensington on January 31 was a major disappointment, however, the son of Castelvecchio contests much easier company on Monday afternoon. He was expected to lead on debut, but wasn’t quite able to muster enough early speed, forced to sit in the one-one position throughout the entire journey. While he did fail to make an impression, his barrier trial prior at Scone on January 21 was sensational when leading all the way to score, and provided Ashley Morgan can adopt those kinds of tactics, Dale will be much more competitive in this country maiden. Best Bet Race 1 – #11 Dale (3) 2yo Colt | T: Paul Messara & Leah Gavranich | J: Ashley Morgan (56kg) +130 with Picklebet Next Best at Muswellbrook: Jonny Be Swift Jonny Be Swift is flying for the Gregory Hickman barn, but after chalking up back-to-back wins to kick off the campaign, the three-year-old may have appeared plain in his most recent start at Bathurst on February 2. The gelding by So You Think didn’t appreciate getting back on top of the ground, unable to display his usually electrifying turn-of-foot. Back onto a surface with some sting out of the ground should be ideal, and with the best country hoop getting back in the saddle, watch for Jonny Be Swift to bring up a hat-trick of wins for the preparation. Next Best Race 5 – #4 Jonny Be Swift (7) 3yo Gelding | T: Gregory Hickman | J: Gregory Hickman (59kg) +150 with Neds Best Value at Muswellbrook: Red In The Morning Red In The Morning seems to be steadily improving after two career starts and appears set to peak third-up on Monday. The son of Dawn Approach closed off gamely at Tamworth on February 3, unable to reel in the 0.7-length margin after making a long-sustained run from the rear of the field. The further he gets out in the trip, the more he’s worth following, and although Red In The Morning will have a couple short-priced commodities to overcome, this guy warrants an each-way ticket. Best Value Race 6 – #6 Red In The Morning (7) 4yo Mare | T: Justin Drake | J: Braith Nick (a1.5) (56.5kg) +1300 with Playup Monday quaddie tips for Muswellbrook races Muswellbrook quadrella selections Monday, February 19, 2024 2-8-12 2-4 1-2-6-8 1-3-5-6-8-11 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Sheldon Russell's hands were full while picking where Apple Picker would mount her rally, but the daughter of Connect took home a basket full of the winner's share of a $200,000 purse in the Barbara Fritchie Stakes (G3) at Laurel Park Feb. 17.View the full article

Alice Springs trainer Paul Gardner returned to the winner’s circle for the first time since early December when Gunnerside saluted at Pioneer Park on Saturday. They’re leading the way in the Alice Springs and Provincial premierships, but the dry spell for trainer Paul Gardner and jockey Sonja Logan ended on Saturday. Gardner’s six-year-old gelding Gunnerside ($6.50) saluted over 1100m (BM54) with apprentice Dylan Stanley on board, while Logan piloted Dan Morgan’s eight-year-old gelding Zoustorm ($19) to victory over 1400m (0-70). It was December 2 when last Gardner and Logan celebrated victory after combining to get Perkova home. Gardner, aiming for his first title, has 14.5 victories for the 2023/24 season and is 2.5 wins clear of Lisa Whittle. Darwin-based Logan, last year’s champion, has 11.5 wins and holds a narrow lead over apprentice Ianish Luximon (10), who also had success on Saturday. Gunnerside impressed the previous week with Logan aboard when second over 1000m (0-64), so to see the son of Choisir post his first win in Central Australia wasn’t a surprise. Jumping from the outside gate (11), Gunnerside covered plenty of ground and was sitting three deep in fifth place passing the 600m before making his winning move in the home straight. Greg Connor’s Quanapirri Bay ($13), ridden by Logan, was set for an all-the-way win before Gunnerside swooped late to win by a length – Terry Gillett’s NT debutante Protostar ($2.80 fav) held on for third. Logan wouldn’t be denied on Zoustorm when the son of Zoustar went to an early lead and edged clear at the 400m before overcoming Russell Bell’s Arrogant Miss ($8.50), who looked gone at the home turn, and Barry Cooke’s Nasha ($13) by 2.3 lengths. Zoustrom arrived in town after four wins and 11 minor placings from 80 starts in Victoria, Tasmania and SA. Last year’s champion trainer Dick Leech enjoyed his first win of the campaign when six-year-old gelding Prince Of Mercia ($3.70) also won on debut at Pioneer Park after pouncing on the leaders turning for home to win by 2.8 lengths in open company over 1200m. The son of Magnus, victorious on debut in Darwin during last year’s Cup Carnival, settled fourth before winding up at the 400m and beating Ray Viney’s Square Cut ($3.10 fav) – who led from the outset – and Gillett’s That’s Justified ($16) home. Top End apprentice Jade Hampson partnered Prince Of Mercia. After two unplaced starts in Alice Springs, Viney’s seven-year-old gelding Duty ($3.40 fav) outclassed Kerry Petrick’s Magnolia Rose ($5) – the early pace-maker – and Morgan’s Barocco Bar ($3.90) winning by four lengths over 1600m (0-64). Duty, the son of Fastnet Rock, was five lengths from the lead in fourth place passing the 800m, but once turning for home and leaving the fence, jockey Jessie Philpot had the gelding in prime position, and with 200m to go, it was all over. Kieffer ($9), Kevin Lamprecht’s four-year-old gelding, also celebrated his first at the track when he decimated his rivals in a 1400m maiden by 8.6 lengths. Under the guidance of Luximon, the son of Mawingo jumped well and settled third on the rails, however, it got a bit hectic at the 600m with six horses vying for the lead. Approaching the final bend, Keiffer left the fence in search of the lead and was in full flight straightening for home before gobbling up the leaders. Gardner’s Star Of New York ($21), a fading sixth at the 500m, rallied for second, while Bell’s Dartboard ($16), a hopeless last passing the 800m, stormed home for third. Horse racing news View the full article

Explore a multitude of captivating racing promotions offered by horse racing bookmakers on Sunday, February 18. Immerse yourself in the thrill with generous bonus back offers, elevating your betting experience. Delve into these complimentary promotions from top-tier online bookmakers to maximise your betting opportunities. The top Australian racing promotions for February 18, 2024, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions Sunshine Coast All Races – Same Race Multi 3+ Leg Bonus Back If 1 Leg Fails Place a 3+ leg Same Race Multi bet on any race at Sunshine Coast this Sunday and if 1 leg of your multi fails, get up to $50 back in Bonus Cash. Market available from approximately 8:30am local track time on race day. Neds T&Cs apply. Login to Neds to Claim Promo Sunshine Coast Race 1 – Run 2nd or 3rd score up to $100 in Bonus Cash Enter the Bonus Code BONUS100 on the Bonus Bets/Offers page, place a fixed win bet on Sunshine Coast race 1 and if your selection runs 2nd or 3rd get up to $100 in Bonus Cash. One Bonus per week. Neds T&Cs apply. Login to Neds 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 Sunday Bonus Back 2nd on ALL RACES at Sha Tin 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 meticulously assesses leading Australian horse racing bookmakers, revealing exclusive thoroughbred bonus promotions for February 18, 2024. These ongoing offers underscore the dedication of top horse racing bookmakers. In the realm of horse racing betting, when one bookmaker isn’t featuring a promotion, another is stepping up. Count on HorseBetting.com.au as your go-to source for daily rewarding horse racing bookmaker bonuses. Enhance your value with competitive odds and exclusive promotions tailored for existing customers. Easily access these offers by logging in to each online bookmaker’s platform. For valuable insights into races and horses to optimise your bonus bets, trust HorseBetting’s daily free racing tips. More horse racing promotions View the full article

Horse racing on Sunday, February 18, will feature eight meetings in Australia. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the top bets and the quaddie numbers for the meetings at Sale & Sha Tin (HK). Sunday Racing Tips – February 18, 2024 Sale Racing Tips Sha Tin (HK) Racing Tips As always, there are plenty of promotions available for Australian racing fans. Check out all the top online bookmakers to see what daily promotions they have. If you are looking for a new bookmaker for the horse racing taking place on February 18, 2024 check out our guide to the best online racing betting sites. More horse racing tips View the full article

Sheldon Russell's hands were full while picking where Apple Picker would mount her rally, but the daughter of Connect took home a basket full of the winner's share of a $200,000 purse in the Barbara Fritchie Stakes (G3) at Laurel Park Feb. 17.View the full article

8th-Gulfstream, $70,840, Msw, 2-17, 3yo, 1m, 1:38.22, ft, 2 lengths. TOP CONOR (c, 3, Twirling Candy–Divine Dawn {GSP, $187,875}, by Divine Park), the second choice on the board at 5-2, sat narrowly off fifth-time starter Wistucky (Nyquist) through a half in :45.61. Tipped out past the quarter pole by Jose Ortiz, he closed stoutly and got up with plenty left despite drifting close to home to pick up the two-length win on debut over Military Road (Quality Road). Pinhooked as a $200,000 KEESEP yearling and secured by Flanagan Racing for a top-four price of $1,000,000 as a 2-year-old at OBS March last year after breezing in :9.4, Top Conor is the second winner out of a graded-stakes placed full-sister to GSW/GISP Divine Miss Grey. Divine Dawn saw her 2-year-old Gun Runner colt bring $850,000 as a yearling at FTSAUG last summer and produced a full-sister to Top Conor last year before visiting Epicenter for 2024. Sales History: $200,000 Ylg '22 KEESEP; $1,000,000 2yo '23 OBSMAR. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $42,000. Click for the Equibase.com chart or VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. O-Flanagan Racing; B-International Equities Holding, Inc. (KY); T-Chad C. Brown. “Top Conor is the top one indeed!” #1 TOP CONOR ($7.60) breaks his maiden in R8 at @GulfstreamPark. The three-year-old Twirling Candy (@LanesEndFarms) colt wins for trainer Chad Brown with @jose93_ortiz in the irons. pic.twitter.com/pf8oc2pWJg — TVG (@TVG) February 17, 2024 The post Twirling Candy’s Top Conor, Million-Dollar OBSMAR Grad, Debuts Nicely At Gulfstream appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article