Wandering Eyes

The good times are rolling for Roger James and Robert Wellwood and further feature race success beckons the duo at Te Rapa on Wednesday. Fresh off Orchestral’s (NZ) (Savabeel) stunning victory in the TAB Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) at Ellerslie on Saturday, the Cambridge trainers are looking forward to Zabmanzor (NZ) (Almanzor) stepping out over more ground in the Gr.2 Legacy Lodge Waikato Guineas (2000m). In between times, they have been busy scouring Karaka for fresh talent during New Zealand Bloodstock’s National Yearling Sale and secured four youngsters during the opening session on Sunday. Zabmanzor has already enjoyed a lucrative preparation with a runaway victory in the Gr.3 Wellington Stakes (1600m) and most recently finished strongly to run second in the Gr.1 Levin Classic (1600m). The son of Almanzor is out of the Savabeel mare Zaborei (NZ) so, on pedigree, he looks well-equipped to continue his form over more ground. “It’s pretty exciting and he was pretty good over a mile at his last start, so 2000m should be a sweet spot for him,” Wellwood said. “At this stage, it’s a bit race by race and as we step up in distance it gives an idea of whether they will go further and he’s certainly one that we think who can.” Zabmanzor holds nominations for the Gr.1 Trackside New Zealand Derby (2400m) and the Gr.1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m). “Everything is still in contention and we think he can be a Derby horse, my gut feeling says that he probably is,” Wellwood said. Zabmanzor’s half-brother Zaboraci (NZ), a son of Tivaci, will also represent the stable on Wednesday in the SVS Starting Gates Maiden (2200m). “He hasn’t shown as much, but he is a horse with ability. Unfortunately, he isn’t the cleanest-winded horse and that let him down last time at Wanganui,” Wellwood said. “He couldn’t finish it off, so we’ll ride him quietly and get him into a rhythm and if he breathes well, he’ll go a nice race.” Meanwhile, Orchestral has progressed well following her Ellerslie success with her immediate future yet to be confirmed. “It was a very special win and she has come through it nicely and given herself every chance to do even more as a three-year-old,” Wellwood said. “It’s up in the air what we do next, the way she put them away over a mile has really made it hard and it’s opened up a lot of races for her, so it’s a nice problem to have. “We’ll sit down in the next day or two and make a plan, there’s options aplenty.” James and Wellwood purchased a quartet of youngsters at Karaka on Sunday with a daughter, Lot 63, of champion sire Proisir their highest-priced. With the newly formed TAB Racing Club, they signed for the Elsdon Park-offered filly out of the Listed Australia Day Cup (2400m) winner Fairygem (NZ) (Viscount) for $360,000. “We bought some really nice horses and hope that one of them is as good as Prowess or Orchestral,” Wellwood said. – View the full article

La Bella Grande will contest the Entain – NZB Insurance Pearl Series (1400m) at Te Rapa on Wednesday. Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North) Progressive Awapuni mare La Bella Grande will make the journey north to Te Rapa on Wednesday with a potentially lucrative goal in mind. Following a hotly contested running of the $350,000 Remutaka Classic (2100m) at Trentham a fortnight ago, the second of newly-instated innovation races will be run on Legends Day at Te Rapa on February 10, with the $350,000 Sir Patrick Hogan Karapiro Classic (1600m). La Bella Grande, an impressive maiden victor two starts back at Wanganui, is eligible under the MAAT conditions, however, after the Remutaka drew an overwhelming number of nominations, trainer Roydon Bergerson is wary of the mare missing a start with her current rating of 63. “We need a few more rating points to get into the Karapiro Classic, hence why we’re heading up there on Wednesday,” he said. The daughter of Per Incanto will aim to raise that figure in the Entain – NZB Insurance Pearl Series (1400m) with regular rider Lisa Allpress in the saddle, the pair’s last performance finishing in a creditable fourth place behind Witz End at Trentham on January 20. “It was just a sit and sprint down there which doesn’t really suit her. Sam Weatherley (jockey of Witz End) basically pulled their pants down in front, just cantered along and sprinted for home, while this mare likes to roll along,” Bergerson said. “We’ve put the blinkers on since then to sharpen her up, and the trackwork riders have said that they’ve definitely made a difference.” Waikato Stud narrowly missed a victory in the Remutaka Classic with Nereus, who was runner-up to The Odyssey, while Wairarapa nursery Little Avondale Stud could be afforded the same opportunity with homebred La Bella Grande, should she make the final field. “She’s pretty fresh and she’ll need to be for the 1400m, but I think she’ll be better suited at the mile, so hopefully she can get in,” Bergerson said. Bergerson’s Group 3-winning mare Town Cryer added further black-type to her record when finishing third in the Group 3 Anniversary Handicap (1600m) behind Churchillian the weekend prior at Trentham, and will bypass Saturday’s Group 3 Taranaki Cup (1800m), in favour of the Listed Wairarapa Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) on February 6. “We were going to go to Taranaki, but we’ve decided to stick back to the fillies and mares at Tauherenikau, so she’ll go there next,” he said. More horse racing news View the full article

Robert Wellwood welcomes back Zabmanzor following his win in the Group 3 Wellington Stakes (1600m). Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North) The good times are rolling for Roger James and Robert Wellwood and further feature race success beckons the duo at Te Rapa on Wednesday. Fresh off Orchestral’s stunning victory in the TAB Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) at Ellerslie on Saturday, the Cambridge trainers are looking forward to Zabmanzor stepping out over more ground in the Group 2 Legacy Lodge Waikato Guineas (2000m). In between times, they have been busy scouring Karaka for fresh talent during New Zealand Bloodstock’s National Yearling Sale and secured four youngsters during the opening session on Sunday. Zabmanzor has already enjoyed a lucrative preparation with a runaway victory in the Group 3 Wellington Stakes (1600m) and most recently finished strongly to run second in the Group 1 Levin Classic (1600m). The son of Almanzor is out of the Savabeel mare Zaborei so, on pedigree, he looks well-equipped to continue his form over more ground. “It’s pretty exciting and he was pretty good over a mile at his last start, so 2000m should be a sweet spot for him,” Wellwood said. “At this stage, it’s a bit race by race and as we step up in distance it gives an idea of whether they will go further and he’s certainly one that we think who can.” Zabmanzor holds nominations for the Group 1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) and the Group 1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m). “Everything is still in contention and we think he can be a Derby horse, my gut feeling says that he probably is,” Wellwood said. Zabmanzor’s half-brother Zaboraci, a son of Tivaci, will also represent the stable on Wednesday in the SVS Starting Gates Maiden (2200m). “He hasn’t shown as much, but he is a horse with ability. Unfortunately, he isn’t the cleanest-winded horse and that let him down last time at Wanganui,” Wellwood said. “He couldn’t finish it off, so we’ll ride him quietly and get him into a rhythm and if he breathes well, he’ll go a nice race.” Meanwhile, Orchestral has progressed well following her Ellerslie success with her immediate future yet to be confirmed. “It was a very special win and she has come through it nicely and given herself every chance to do even more as a three-year-old,” Wellwood said. “It’s up in the air what we do next, the way she put them away over a mile has really made it hard and it’s opened up a lot of races for her, so it’s a nice problem to have. “We’ll sit down in the next day or two and make a plan, there’s options aplenty.” More horse racing news View the full article

What Happy Valley Races Where Happy Valley Racecourse – Wong Nai Chung Rd, Happy Valley, Hong Kong When Wednesday, January 31, 2024 First Race 6:40pm HKT (9:40pm AEDT) Visit Dabble Hong Kong racing returns to the bright lights of Happy Valley Racecourse on Wednesday evening, with a massive nine-race program set for decision. The rail is moved to the A position for the meeting, which should allow every runner to get their chance throughout proceedings. The first race is scheduled to get underway at 6:40pm local time, and although there’s no rain forecast until after the last, we expect the humid conditions to be testing for all participants. Best Bet at Happy Valley: Beauty Waves Beauty Waves has had four starts in Hong Kong for three minor placings, with the latest coming at this course and distance on January 4. He sat on the back of the speed on that occasion and was forced to lead up the remainder of the field, allowing Bons A Pearla to savage the line late and beat him by 0.3 lengths on the wire. It was a pass-mark for the son of Starspangledbanner in his first trip to Happy Valley, and with Zac Purton taking the reins from gate three, it leaves plenty of options for Beauty Waves as he searches for that illusive Hong Kong win. Best Bet Race 8 – #7 Beauty Waves (3) 4yo Gelding | T: Douglas Whyte | J: Zac Purton (56kg) Bet with Playup Next Best at Happy Valley: Gallant Valour Gallant Valour was unfortunate to miss out on back-to-back wins at his most recent start on January 10, as the three-year-old got crowded for room at a crucial stage. Lyrical Motion got the favours along the inside running rail, and as Gallant Valour looked to get clear running, he couldn’t quite show his electric turn-of-foot as he loomed towards the middle of the course. He gains the services of Zac Purton combining with the Jamie Richards barn, and provided he can get a mid-field sit with some cover, Gallant Valour should be in the finish once again. Next Best Race 3 – #3 Gallant Valour (7) 3yo Gelding | T: Jamie Richards | J: Zac Purton (59.5kg) Bet with Neds Next Best Again at Happy Valley: Simply Maverick Simply Maverick will be looking to record his third win of the campaign as he makes his first attempt in Class 3 company. He was sensational when winning his latest start at this track and distance on January 10, proving far too good for his rivals in that grade, scoring by two lengths. This is clearly his toughest test to date as the son of Sebring begins his rise through the grades, but based on what we’ve seen, Simply Maverick looks capable of continuing his winning ways. Next Best Again Race 9 – #8 Simply Maverick (6) 4yo Gelding | T: Ricky Yiu | J: Andrea Atzeni (56kg) Bet with Bet365 Happy Valley Wednesday quaddie tips – 31/1/2024 Happy Valley quadrella selections Wednesday, January 31, 2024 1-4-5-6-9 1-5-6-7-12 1-7-9 1-6-8-12 More horse racing tips View the full article

What Benalla Races Where Benalla Racing Club – Midland Hwy, Benalla VIC 3672 When Tuesday, January 30, 2024 First Race 1:30pm AEDT Visit Dabble Another week of Victorian horse racing commences on Tuesday with a competitive eight-race meeting set down for decision at Benalla. Perfect conditions are forecast for the region on Tuesday, and despite the track coming up a Soft 5 at the time of acceptances, we will be racing on a Good 4 throughout the day. The rail comes out 3m from the 800m-400m and in its true position the remainder. Racing from Benella gets underway at 1:30pm AEDT. Best Bet at Benalla: Yongtai Yongtai has been nothing short of impressive in her two runs this time in. She broke maiden ranks first-up at Bendigo when producing a thunderous finish, before going on to be beaten in a photo finish at Cranbourne when producing a similarly breath-taking finish in BM58 company. She looks to be a mare with decent enough ability and should be going one better at Benalla. Luke Cartwright’s 3kg claim gets Yongtai in perfectly at the weights with 57kg on her back, and if she can find clear air at the right time, Yongtai should prove too hard to hold out. Best Bet Race 6 – #7 Yongtai (4) 4yo Mare | T: David Brideoake & Matt Jenkins | J: Luke Cartwright (a3) (60kg) +170 with PlayUp Next Best at Benalla: Simple Times The Patrick Payne-trained Simple Times was a dramatic drifter in betting when first-up from a six-month spell at Wangaratta on January 11, and with the run under his belt, we’re confident he can strike on Tuesday. The son of Sioux Nation looked in need of the run when tiring late on in the piece before being beaten two-lengths when finishing third. He broke his maiden when second-up during his initial campaign after a similar first-up performance like he put in last time out. Billy Egan will look to have this guy in a prominent position, and when asked to quicken, we’re confident Simple Times will put a race like this away within a couple of strides. Next Best Race 8 – #5 Simple Times (6) 3yo Gelding | T: Patrick Payne | J: Billy Egan (60.5kg) +280 with Neds Best Value at Benalla: Supamano Supmano showed plenty of promise when finishing second at the Benalla 1106m when returning from a spell on January 21, and with the step up to the 1212m, he looks poised to go one better. The four-year-old gelding came from the rear of the field and produced a strong finishing burst to miss by the barest of margins. The run suggested he was worth following wherever he went next, and with the extra 100m on Tuesday, he looks a great play. Barrier 12 is offset by the fact he settles at the rear of the field in his races, and if he can produce a similar finish, we’re confident he can salute at an each-way price with top horse racing bookmakers. Best Value Race 4 – #4 Supamano (12) 4yo Gelding | T: Michael Gibson | J: Hannah Le Blanc (a1.5) (59.5kg) +900 with Bet365 Tuesday quaddie tips for Benalla Benalla quadrella selections Tuesday, January 30, 2024 1-2-3 7 1-3-4-8 5-8-13 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article

Newgrange (Violence) was doing well the morning after successfully defending his title in Saturday's GII San Pasqual Stakes and becoming racing's newest millionaire, according to his trainer, Phil D'Amato. “He came out of the race in great shape,” said D'Amato, who collected his fifth stakes win at the Classic Meet to lead all trainers. Ridden for the first time Saturday by Hall of Famer Victor Espinoza, Newgrange broke on top and was never headed to score by a length as the 2-1 second choice. Newgate (Into Mischief), the 8-5 favorite for Bob Baffert, stalked Newgrange throughout the 1 1/8-mile dirt test but could not get to the winner. He checked in second, three-quarters of a length ahead of 11-1 longshot Mixto for trainer Doug O'Neill. D'Amato offered praise to both his horse and rider for the performance. Espinoza rationed Newgrange through fractions of 23.27, 47.55 and 1:12.10 before crossing the wire in 1:49.26. The effort earned a 97 Beyer Speed Figure, according to Daily Racing Form's Brad Free. “They controlled the pace and didn't look back,” D'Amato said. “You have to give Victor credit for getting good position, setting the right pace and having enough left.” For 51-year-old Espinoza, who swept the 2015 Triple Crown with American Pharoah, the win was the 3,509th of his career. It was just his second graded stakes win since 2022. Last year, Espinoza's lone graded-stakes tally came in the GII John Henry Turf Championship at Santa Anita with Balladeer for trainer George Papaprodromou. As for Newgrange, a trip to the Middle East could be in the near future. D'Amato said it's possible they take a shot in the GI, $12 million Dubai World Cup at 1 ¼ miles on March 30 at Meydan Racecourse. “Judging by what the owners were saying yesterday, I think that's what they are leaning towards,” D'Amato said. “But it's still a long way between now and the end of March.” Newgrange is a 5-year-old Violence full horse owned by David Bernsen, Little Red Feather Racing and Rockingham Ranch. With the fifth graded stakes win of his career, he upped his record to 7-0-4 in 13 starts with $1,007,634 in earnings. The post Newgrange Eyes Dubai World Cup After San Pasqual Win appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The first reported foal for Baaeed (GB), the top-rated turf horse in the world in 2022, has been born at Haras de la Perelle in Normandy. The filly is out of the Shadwell-bred Exceed And Excel (Aus) mare Mejthaam (Ire), a dual winner and half-sister to Group 2 winner Alflaila (GB), who was bought in December for 260,000gns. “We are delighted with her. She is a strong, good-sized foal, full of energy and has a great temperament. She is doing everything right. It is very exciting to have had the first foal of the brilliant champion Baaeed,” said William Rimaud, manager of Haras de la Perelle. Among the other mares set to produce a foal from the first crop of Baaeed this year are the Group 1 winners Deirdre (Jpn), Eshaada (GB), Nazeef (Ire), Persuasive (GB), Queen's Trust (GB), Seal Of Approval (GB), Search For A Song (Ire), Star Of Seville (GB), The Fugue (GB) and Wavering (Ire), as well as the dams of Group 1 winners Accidental Agent (GB), Best Of Days (Ire), Native Trail (GB), Persian King (Ire), Siyarafina (Fr) and Ten Sovereigns (Ire). Breeders in Newmarket this week for the Tattersalls February Sale can view Baaeed and his fellow Shadwell stallions Mostahdaf (Ire) and Mohaather (GB) at Beech House Stud on Thursday and Friday between 12pm and 3.30pm. The post A Filly First for Baaeed appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Newly-crowned champion 2-year-old male Fierceness will make his anticipated sophomore debut in the $250,000 Holy Bull Stakes (G3) Feb. 3 at Gulfstream Park.View the full article

Newgrange was doing well the morning after successfully defending his title in the San Pasqual Stakes (G2) Jan. 27 and becoming racing's newest millionaire. View the full article

The field for the $800,000 Southwest Stakes (G3) Feb. 3 at Oaklawn Park is shaping up to be a nail-biting 8 1/2 furlong test, with Liberal Arts, Wynstock, and Maycocks Bay set to clash, giving participants a view to the first weekend in May.View the full article

Victor The Winner surges to his first Group 1 triumph. Victor The Winner could embark on an ambitious overseas campaign after the lightly-raced speedster upstaged decorated opposition, including Lucky Sweynesse and Wellington, with a convincing victory in the HK$13 million G1 Centenary Sprint Cup (1200m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (28 January). Jumping from barrier 10, the +3700 bookmaker chance forged straight to the lead for Derek Leung and strode virtually unchallenged through a leisurely first 400m of the race, clocking 24.30s, before accelerating from the home turn and building an unassailable lead. Clocking 22.18s for the final 400m, Victor The Winner prevailed by a length and three-quarters from Lucky With You, while Wellington was a further half-length away in third place. Lucky Sweynesse, who ambled from the gates and was trapped behind a wall of runners to be 11th with 400m left to run, produced the fastest final sectional of 21.98s but was never a winning chance. “He (Lucky Sweynesse) didn’t jump slow, but he couldn’t get into stride, and then when the horses got in front of him and backed the speed right off, that made it impossible from where we were,” jockey Zac Purton said. “So, he just lost it in the first part of the race.” It was a rare rebuttal for Purton on Sunday, when the Australian dominated the undercard with six winners – Nicholson Returns, Ace Victory, Beato, Gorgeous Win, Sweet Encounter, and Green N White – but it was unquestionably Leung’s time to shine as the homegrown talent tasted Group 1 success for the first time since Beauty Generation’s 2017 G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Mile (1600m) victory. “It feels great. Thank you for the opportunity from the owner and the trainer. We drew an outside gate, but we flew out of the gate, so (we) took advantage and just went forward – he was quite relaxed after that, and at the 500m, I knew he was going to kick very strong. Very lucky; it was a win,” Leung said. Asked if he was surprised to have led as easily, Leung said, “Very lucky. It could not be better.” Shum, who savoured G1 W.S. Cox Plate (2040m) and G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (2000m) victories with Romantic Warrior, said Leung had followed instructions perfectly. “His pace for the first (sectional) was absolutely great; he did it in 24 something (seconds). I’m very happy for the stable, the owner, and Derek as well,” Shum said. “When he got a good lead, I thought he had a chance. He’s tough and very good in front.” Shum said he would consider a tilt at the G1 Takamatsunomiya Kinen (1200m) at Chukyo Racecourse, Japan, on March 24. “I entered him in Japan over 1200m, so I will see how he pulls up and then decide if I keep him in Hong Kong or send him to Japan in March,” Shum said. “I’ve considered Japan for a long time because it’s a left-hand turn. In the morning, his left-hand turn is better than his right-hand turn, so we have to give him a chance overseas.” Purton leads the Hong Kong jockeys’ championships with 61 wins – 21 clear of Karis Teetan (40) and Hugh Bowman (30). The Australian’s spree began with David Hall’s Nicholson Returns in the Class 4 Fu Tai Handicap (2000m) before he sealed an early double when Benno Yung’s Ace Victory crossed from barrier 12 to find the rail in the first section of the Class 4 On Ting Handicap (1200m). The six-time champion jockey’s dominance continued with Tony Cruz’s Beato in the Class 4 Yan Oi Tong Cup Handicap (1600m) before Danny Shum-trained Gorgeous Win presented the Australian with his fourth spoil of the afternoon with a convincing win in the Class 3 Tai Hing Handicap (1200m). Purton then teamed with John Size’s Sweet Encounter in the Class 3 Yan Tin Handicap (1600m) before he closed the meeting as he started it when Ricky Yiu’s Green N White – a BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) nomination – crowned a fabulous day for the Australian. “It’s good (the six-timer) – it’s been a bit of a grind through the season so far. There have been a number of factors behind that, but hopefully the second half of the season can be a bit stronger, like it was today,” Purton said. David Hall also completed a brace when Andrea Atzeni piloted Champion Instinct to victory in the second section of the Class 4 On Ting Handicap (1200m), Hong Kong International Sale graduate Smart Beauty broke through for his first win with success under Angus Chung in the Class 5 Lung Yat Handicap (1600m) for Tony Cruz; and Chris So’s Panda Legend scored in the Class 4 Po Tin Handicap (1400m) under Keagan De Melo. Hong Kong racing continues at Happy Valley on Wednesday night (31 January). View the full article

Sir Albert and Jon Ol Rocco fight out the finish in the Woodbourne Tavern & Motels Bottle-O Renwick Marlborough Cup (2000m) at Riccarton on Saturday. Terri Rae had plenty to celebrate on her home track of Riccarton Park on Saturday, recording a winning treble capped off by the ever-improving Sir Albert. Sir Albert has been a model of consistency for Rae this season, claiming victories over 1600m, 1800m, and a stunning display over 2000m during New Zealand Cup Week. The son of Savabeel journeyed to Trentham last Saturday to contest the $350,000 Remutaka Classic (2100m), and a luckless run saw him finish strongly late in midfield, a performance duly rectified in the Woodbourne Tavern & Motels Bottle-O Renwick Marlborough Cup (2000m) on Saturday. Back at his favourite course, where all three of his previous on-turf victories where recorded, the four-year-old started a warm $2.90 favourite with the leading betting sites ahead of fellow local talent Jon Ol Rocco ($4.20). In the hands of northern jockey Joe Kamaruddin, Sir Albert was settled back in the 10-horse field, the tempo solid up-front with Amazon Goddess in command. Nearing the 800m mark, Sir Albert remained upwards of 16 lengths from the runaway pacemaker, but a no-panic ride from Kamaruddin saw the gelding track Jon Ol Rocco into the clear, with Sir Albert eventually prevailing in a tough head-bobbing battle to the post. “He was possibly going to go to Dunedin (next Saturday) after Wellington, but he ended up pretty much following them around up there and running home. He ran the second-quickest last 600m and still went really well,” Rae said. “It was his first trip away, but he came through that well, so we thought while the track was good, which he prefers, it would be a good race to back up in. Back at a better weight and better footing, it all worked perfectly for him.” Andrew Carston’s Jon Ol Rocco has been a key rival for Rae’s charge this season, finishing ahead of Sir Albert on three occasions over 1600m, while the diminutive gelding narrowly cemented his place on top over 2000m. “Jon Ol Rocco is a big strapping horse; he seems to have the better of Albert at a mile, but over the 2000m, Albert really shows his best,” Rae said. “They’re both lightly tried, promising horses, and super consistent, so it was nice to see them fight out the finish.” The victory was Sir Albert’s fifth in just 13 raceday appearances, bringing his total earnings over $151,000, with Rae crediting his impressive performance to his niece Ruby, who works at the stable. “She does a great job, and she loves all the horses, but especially Albert. He’s a funny little horse, very small but tries so hard,” she said. “Albert’s done a great job this prep; he’s pretty tired tonight, and it was a big trip for him last weekend, so he is coming home and will have a few weeks out now. We’ll decide what to do with him from there.” Sir Albert’s triumph was the third in a successful meeting for Rae, saluting earlier on the card with Spot On Time in the Karaka 2024 Maiden (1400m) and Chapinteel in the D Reynolds Electrical Rating 65 (1800m), with Aristocrat a close-up second in the Lot 933 Jon Snow Filly At Karaka 2024 (1800m). A son of Time Test, Spot On Time was a commanding victor under Kylie Williams at her third start, the victory a sentimental one for Rae with the children of the late Kevin Pratt (former principal of Kamada Park) in the ownership. “We were expecting Spot On Time to go pretty well, especially at the 1400m. He won really nicely,” she said. “I used to train for Kevin Pratt, so the kids have all taken over, and they race this horse now. They were all very happy, so it was cool to get the win for them.” Lightly-tried Savabeel mare Chapinteel has been a work in progress for Rae and has produced a professional effort to go back-to-back in successive weeks under apprentice Niranjan Parmar. “She’s only really lightly-raced; the owners have been very patient with her, and she’s been given a fair bit of time. She’s really putting it all together now, maturing and furnishing into a really nice horse. She just needed some confidence,” she said. “We’ve got a great little team; it was great to get these results.” More horse racing news View the full article

Group One-winning galloper and sire Jimmy Choux. Photo: Trish Dunell One of the cult heroes of New Zealand racing has passed away, with news coming through that former Gr.1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) winner and successful stallion Jimmy Choux was humanely euthanised earlier in the week. The multiple Group One winner was the standout story of racing in New Zealand during the 2011 calendar year, where he captured four Group One titles and went within a length of a fifth when finishing runner-up to Pinker Pinker in the Gr.1 Cox Plate (2040m) of that year. His accomplishments for owners and breeders Richard and Liz Wood put fledgling trainer John Bary and former jumps jockey turned flat rider Jonathan Riddell on the map, with Bary quick to pay tribute to his mate and stable star. “We got the news from his home at Rosalee Park Stud in Western Australia on Tuesday that he had to be humanely euthanized as he was suffering from nose cancer,” Bary said. “It certainly brought back some very special memories, as he was such a lovely horse and a great character, and he put a novice trainer and a battling former jumps jockey on the map. “The support he had from the general public was quite amazing, as they really seemed to take him to heart, and he returned that affection by trying his heart out every time we lined him up. “He wasn’t a natural talent, but he had a big heart and a big brain, which meant he did things that a lot of horses couldn’t do. It would be great to have a few more like him in the stable.” Bary nominated his 2011 New Zealand Derby win as one of his fondest memories and was philosophical about the lowlight, which was the narrow defeat in the Cox Plate later that year. “He gave me my first stakes victory when he won the Wakefield Challenge Stakes at Trentham (Gr.2, 1200m) and then in his three-year-old season he won the Derby, which was worth $2.2 million at the time, which was just enormous for us all. “He went close to becoming the first horse to complete the Triple Crown at Hastings as he finished runner-up in the Makfi Challenge Stakes (Gr.1, 1400m) before winning the next two legs,” he said. “We took him to Australia for the Cox Plate, and he went so close to winning that day. “Jonathan rode a ten out of ten race that day, and we got beaten by an eleven out of eleven effort by Craig Williams on Pinker Pinker.” Following his successful racetrack career, Jimmy Choux found his way to Rich Hill Stud at Walton in the Waikato, where he produced Group One winners The Bostonian and Two Illicit amongst his five individual stakes winners. “Jimmy was with us for eight seasons after his racetrack career,” Rich Hill principal John Thompson said. “He was an easy horse to promote as he had such a following, and he left some very nice horses without quite reaching the heights we wanted him to. “He had The Bostonian and Two Illicit but was probably a very good bread and butter stallion, and it is sad to hear about his demise as he was a lovely horse to have around the farm. “The breeders here didn’t want to support him in the end, but he found a lovely home in West Australia.” Jimmy Choux won twelve of his 26 starts and more than $3.6 million during his career on the track and produced 141 individual winners from his time at stud. More horse racing news View the full article

Horse Racing on Monday, January 29 will feature seven meetings in Australia. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the top bets and the quaddie numbers for the Tuncurry meeting. Monday Racing Tips – January 29, 2024 Tuncurry Racing Tips Best Horse Racing Bets For January 29, 2024 Place these horse racing bets in a multi for $19.04 odds return: Sunday, January 28, 2024 Tuncurry – Race 5 #11 Image Of The Sun Armidale – Race 3 #5 More For Us Warwick – Race 8 #1 Chisum | Copy this bet straight to your betslip As always there a plenty of promotions available for Australian racing fans, check out all the top online bookmakers to see what daily promotions they have. If you are looking for a new bookmaker for the horse racing taking place on January 29, 2024 check out our guide to the best online racing betting sites. More horse racing tips View the full article

Explore a multitude of captivating racing promotions offered by horse racing bookmakers on Monday, January 29. 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 maximize your betting opportunities. The top Australian racing promotions for January 29, 2024, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions TOP 4 BETTING Bet and win up to 4th place on every race Picklebet T&Cs apply. Login to PickleBet to Claim Promo DAILY TRIFECTA BOOSTS Boost your winnings by 10% with our new Trifecta boosts 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 January 29, 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 optimize your bonus bets, trust HorseBetting’s daily free racing tips. More horse racing promotions View the full article

Senor Buscador, beaten a neck by National Treasure after a gallant late rally in the Jan. 27 Pegasus World Cup Invitational (G1), has been invited to the Feb. 24 Saudi Cup (G1) following his strong effort.View the full article

Driver Penalties P Davis | NZ Metropolitan 26 January; medical clearance required. M Holbrough | NZ Metropolitan 26 January; use of whip; suspended 5-9 February inclusive. B Butt | NZ Metropolitan 26 January; breach of push out rule; fined $200. K Green | NZ Metropolitan 26 January; contacted track markers; fined $200. D Van Til | NZ Metropolitan 26 January; contacted track markers; fined $200. R May | NZ Metropolitan 28 January (heard Methven 28 January); contacted track marker; fined $200. R Holmes | Methven 28 January; careless driving; suspended 29 January – 9 February inclusive. M Cations | Methven 28 January; careless driving; suspended 29 January – 9 February inclusive. L McCormick | Methven 28 January; use of whip; suspended 7-16 February inclusive. P Wakelin | Methven 28 January; use of whip; suspended 29 January – 6 February inclusive. G Smith | Methven 28 January; use of whip; fined $200. C Dalgety | Methven 28 January; out of position at start; fined $100. Trainer Penalties J Young | NZ Metropolitan 26 January; failed to lodge horse notification; fined $300. G & N Hope | Methven 28 January; late gear notification; fined $50. Horse Penalties DALNESS FIRST | Auckland 26 January; lame; veterinary clearance required. OWN THE MOMENT | Auckland 26 January; unsatisfactory performance; must complete trial. DANCING DESIRE | NZ Metropolitan 26 January; broke in running; must complete trial. ELEPHANTINTHEROOM | NZ Metropolitan 26 January; late scratching on veterinary advice; veterinary clearance required. Protests SHESGOLD | Auckland 26 January; excessive galloping in home straight; disqualified from 2nd. I SPY DIAMONDS | Methven 28 January; caused interference; relegated from 2nd to 3rd. The post 22-28 January 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Dog Penalties ZHENYE BALE | Christchurch 22 January; failed to pursue the lure (3rd offence); stood down for 3 months and must complete 2 trials. GOT FAITH | Christchurch 22 January; failed to pursue the lure but found to have serious injury; must complete trial. HOMEBUSH MAX | Christchurch 22 January; failed to pursue the lure (2nd offence); stood down for 28 days and must complete trial. General Race 9 at Southland GRC of 22 January was declared a no-race due to the lure breaking down. The post 22-28 January 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Rider Penalties W Pinn | Matamata 24 January; careless riding (2 charges); suspended 28 January – 18 February inclusive. W Pinn | Matamata 24 January; failed to take all reasonable and permissible measures; suspended 19 February – 17 March inclusive. C Grylls | Matamata 24 January; medical clearance required (subsequently received on 27 January). E Nicholas | Hawke’s Bay 25 January; medical clearance required. Horse Penalties RITA BONITA | Matamata 24 January; lame; veterinary clearance required. MASTER FAY | Auckland 27 January; lame; veterinary clearance required. LIVE DRAMA | Canterbury 27 January; late scratching after refusing to load; must complete trial. General The Hawke’s Bay RI meeting of 25 January was abandoned after Race 2 due to track inconsistencies. The Wellington RC meeting of 27 January was abandoned after Race 4 due to track conditions. The post 22-28 January 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Victor the Winner grabbed his first group 1 victory in the Centenary Sprint Cup (G1) at Sha Tin Racecourse Jan. 28 as the world's top sprinter, Lucky Sweynesse, fell victim to traffic problems and finished up the course.View the full article

By Barry Lichter Sacred Mountain might have smashed her rivals at Auckland on Friday night but trainer Nicky Chilcott knows how hard it will be for her to repeat the win in today’s Dunstan Horse Feeds Breeders’ Stakes at Cambridge, especially now that she has been rehandicapped to 40 metres. Sacred Mountain will share the back mark with Resolve in Cambridge’s $40,000 Group 3 race, forced to give away a 10 metre head start to the flying southern mare Sunny’s Sister, fresh from a dominant double at Nelson. “She’s certainly up against it from that mark in a big 14-horse field and the 2700 metres is not her best distance,” Chilcott said. “While she’s gone some really good races over 2700, she’s way more potent over a short trip, like Friday’s mile. “But she won’t disgrace herself as she’s really in the zone.” Chilcott will hand over the reins on Monday to Sailesh Abernethy so she can pilot stablemate KD Royalty, who starts from the unruly position on the front line, but says that’s no reflection on their respective chances. “I feel terrible getting off Milly because she’s flying and looks the better chance. She’s really improved this preparation and has gone to a new level, but whether it’s high enough to be competitive with the very best only time will tell. “She’s an open class trotter now and there’s nowhere to hide. We won’t get any more gimmees like Friday night.” Chilcott said Sacred Mountain won so easily at Alexandra Park she didn’t even pull the hood. “She could have won by 10 lengths, not three. I stopped driving her 100 out because she was well clear and I let her cruise to the line. She could have gone round again.” The mare clocked a sedate 2:00.2 for the mile, a distance outside her career best of 1:56.7 as the expected challenge from second favourite All Cashed Up petered out in the run home. “I knew I was giving it the walk in front but there was no point going harder – you don’t get paid for breaking records.” Sacred Mountain, gifted a cheap 33.1 mid-section, “just flopped along on a loose rein until All Cashed Up, pushed out three wide 900 metres from home, moved up down the back straight. “When she heard them coming, it was all on and round the bend, man, was she smokin’.” Sacred Mountain ran home in 57.9 and 28.9 to score her 11th win, all but two of them for Chilcott. The $11,000 winning stake took the Muscle Hill six-year-old’s earnings to $154,132, climaxing an exciting night for Melbourne owners Merv and Meg Butterworth who were on course to see the triumph. Earlier, the couple heard their former White Star trotter Son Of A Sun easily win at Stawell in Victoria, registering his second win from three starts since being exported to Australia. “It was a thrill for me to win with Milly when Merv and Meg were here,” Chilcott said. “She’s a nice mare and I’m lucky to have her.” View the full article

By Brigette Solomon The Group 3 Dunstan Waikato Trotting Breeders Stakes and the first race of the Hygain Revell Douglas Memorial Series for Junior Drivers will highlight today’s action at Cambridge. The Dunstan Waikato Trotting Breeders Stakes looks set to be a hot contest with a capacity field of quality mares featuring recent Group race winning performers Sacred Mountain, Resolve, and Sunnys Sister. Trained by Robert and Jenna Dunn, Sunnys Sister is a winner of her past four starts including the New Zealand Trotting Oaks and Derby. After ticking off wins on both days of Nelson Harness Racing Club’s two day meeting earlier in the month, the mare continued on to the Dunn’s Pukekohe stable. “She’s had a bit of an easy time to freshen her since Nelson but travelled up and settled in well,” says regular driver John Dunn, “it won’t be an easy job starting off 30 metres though and she’ll have some work to do.” “She will remain up here for the next few months with the Northern Trotting Breeders Stakes on the 16th February and the feature races in the Autumn,” says Dunn. Starting off a 40 metre handicap, both Sacred Mountain and Resolve will have plenty of work to do. Both mares have recently won at Group 3 level – Sacred Mountain the Cambridge Flying Stakes and Resolve the Greenlane Cup, with the latter also being the winner of this race last year with a 40 metre handicap. John Dickie, who trains Resolve from his Clevedon base, is pragmatic about his mare’s chances “I was happy with her last fast work but it’s a big ask to chase them down off 40 metres and there is some good form amongst the field.” The first heat of the Hygain Revell Douglas Memorial Series for 2024 gets underway in Race 4. In its third year the series has gained recognition with the series now eagerly anticipated amongst Junior Drivers. Amongst the eight horse field are last start winners God Dam and Lou Baby, the latter winning by a whopping 17 lengths at Cambridge on the 19th January. Lou Baby will be driven by Monika Ranger in the event. “He won well last start and it’s great going into the series with a good drive,” says Ranger, “all going to plan I will have Caulfield for David Butcher in the heats at Hawera next weekend and he’s a consistent performer who should go well.” Revell Douglas was a lifelong participant and supporter of the harness racing industry who sadly passed away after rescuing his children in an incident at Karioitahi Beach. Hygain and Don Douglas, Revell’s father, founded the series as a fitting memorial for Revell who was a much loved family member, employee and friend to many in the wider racing community. The series runs over seven race meetings in the North and South Islands with drivers accumulating points over the series. The winner receives a scholarship from series sponsor Hygain. The next heats will be held at Hawera on February 2 and 4 before heading south to Methven on the 11th, Rangiora on the 17th, and Cromwell on the 23rd and 25th. View the full article

By Mike Love West Melton trainer Barry Ward completed a “special” day at the races with a hat-trick of training wins yesterday at Mt Harding racecourse. Although the feat is not uncommon, the fact that Ward bred all three winners makes it all the rarer. “I’ve had two wins and a second at the races before, and trained a double four times. But definitely the first hat trick for me. It’s a pretty special day,” said Ward. “They all went to Blenheim last week. Mister Blue Sky went okay on the first day, but disappointed on the second day. The other two mares (Times Are A Changing and Hey Tonight) went okay on the first day and much better on the second. So that trip tidied them up, then coming home for a quiet week before today obviously worked out well.” In Race two Mister Blue Sky claimed his maiden victory at start number 30. Driven by Sam Thornley, Mister Blue Sky secured the trail after leading early. From there it was a waiting game for Thornley to execute the use of the passing lane, where they were able to wear down leader Dean James and hold off a fast late finish from race favourite Victor Lustig who nabbed second, winning by half a neck. “I was quite surprised because he’d been disappointing to say the least. He does have ability but he doesn’t always show it. Hence 30 starts to win his maiden.” Bred by Ward, the five-year-old Sunshine Beach gelding Mister Blue Sky is out of Washington VC mare Alright Now, who was also bred, owned and trained by Ward. In Race four Times Are A Changin recorded her eighth career win for Ward and driver Sarah O’Reilly. They were steady away from the tapes over the 2400m journey, settling at the rear of the field. O’Reilly opted to move around the field from the 1550m to the parked position. From there Times Are A Changin showed stamina to nag away at pacemaker On Report, taking the entire 300m straight to hit the lead short of the line, winning by half a neck from the unlucky Style Council who dashed late into second in what was a blanket finish. “I knew she would be competitive today.” Times Are A Changin is out of Group 1 winning Bettors Delight mare Paradise City, who Ward also bred, owned and trained. In the final event Sam Thornley combined again with Ward and Hey Tonight, who secured her sixth career win. Easing off the gate, Thornley was unable to find the running line so moved three wide with cover to sit parked from the mile. Hey Tonight had to call on all of her reserves to hit the lead in the final 30 metres, to win by half a neck from the fast finishing Sargent Best. “She had to be tough and she is tough. I was confident she would go well.” The now six-year-old A Rocknroll Dance mare is out of Red River Hanover mare Wonderful Tonight, who again was raced, trained and bred by Ward. “We will just see what happens with them all now. We will stick to the grass for as long as we can with Mister Blue Sky. The two mares will still be competitive in their company, but again we will look for the grass tracks.” Ward’s continued success with breeding has been a journey and he will continue moving forward with his found formula. “I’ve tried various families but I’ve always come back to this group. It’s been successful for me. Every mare seems to be capable of leaving a nice horse. Years ago we used to breed for the sales but we’ve moved away from that. It’s hard to pick what the buyers want. And to breed to the top stallions can be quite prohibitive.” Ward trains a team of six from his West Melton base and has trained 139 winners, winning over $1.4 million in stakes. View the full article

Senor Buscador, beaten a neck by National Treasure after a gallant late rally in the Jan. 27 Pegasus World Cup Invitational (G1), has been invited to the Feb. 25 Saudi Cup (G1) following his strong effort.View the full article

5th-Aqueduct, $80,000, Msw, 1-28, 3yo, 1m, 1:40.42, sy, 8 1/4 lengths. CAPITAL IDEA (c, 3, Classic Empire–Rever de Vous {SP}, by Distorted Humor), a close-up third in his debut over this track and trip Dec. 31, went off the 2-1 second choice to take a step forward while getting Lasix for this soggy return. Settled in a stalking third by Trevor McCarthy as favored J D Factor (The Factor) led through :24.16 and :48.95 opening splits, the bay mounted his challenge three wide approaching the quarter pole, took over in early stretch and strode clear to triumph by 8 1/4 lengths over Sardis (Into Mischief). Rever de Vous, a daughter of GSW Dreaming of Liz (El Prado {Ire}), produced a colt by McKinzie last term and was bred back to Mandaloun. Sales history: $260,000 Ylg '22 KEESEP. Lifetime Record: 2-1-0-1, $54,200. Click for the Equibase.com chart or VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. O-Reeves Thoroughbred Racing; B-Steven & Brandi Nicholson (KY); T-Christophe Clement. The post Classic Empire’s Capital Idea Graduates Impressively at the Big A appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article