Wandering Eyes

Daqiansweet Junior will lineup in the Roy Higgins Quality. (Photo by Pat Scala/Racing Photos) Daqiansweet Junior is set to make a bid for a third appearance in the prestigious Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m), should he emerge victorious in Saturday’s Listed Roy Higgins Quality (2600m) at Flemington. Trained by Phillip Stokes, this progeny of Sweet Orange, a descendant of War Front, showcased his mettle by securing sixth place in the 2022 Melbourne Cup, followed by an admirable fifth-place finish in last year’s edition. His sights are now set on securing a coveted ‘win and you’re in’ slot into this year’s Cup through the Roy Higgins. “He got into the Cup pretty comfortably last year,” said Stokes. “He should be ok again, but if you don’t have to take the chance it makes the programming easier if we’re going that way.” Having had one start since last year’s Cup, finishing fifth in the Australian Cup Prelude on March 9, Stokes reflected positively on his performance. “I thought his first-up run was the best he has put in for a long time. “He bounced, put himself there, and only got beaten a bit under four lengths which is probably a ‘PB’ for him.” With Daqiansweet Junior heading into the Roy Higgins Quality second-up in promising form, Stokes anticipates him peaking third-up for the Group 1 Sydney Cup (3200m), highlighting the progressive trajectory of this seasoned campaigner. Horse racing news View the full article

Three-time Group 1 winner Think It Over has been retired. (Scott Barbour/Racing Photos) Think It Over, a distinguished three-time Group 1 victor, has officially bid farewell to the racing world. Following an awe-inspiring return from a perilous tendon injury, culminating in a resounding triumph in the Group 1 Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m) merely weeks ago, Think It Over’s illustrious career has come to a close. Citing the results of thorough veterinary evaluations, connections have made the poignant decision to retire the now eight-year-old gelding. Born from the esteemed lineage of So You Think, Think It Over graced the track 42 times, amassing an impressive tally of 14 victories and 13 placings, with a staggering prize purse nearing $8.5 million. His legacy is immortalised by triumphant performances in prestigious events such as the 2021 Group 1 George Ryder Stakes (1500m), the 2022 Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m), and most notably, this year’s memorable conquest in the Verry Elleegant Stakes. Horse racing news View the full article

Luke Nolen will make his return at Cranbourne. (Photo by Brett Holburt/Racing Photos) After a hiatus spanning over two months, renowned jockey Luke Nolen is poised to make a comeback to the racing circuit on Friday night at Cranbourne. The esteemed rider, celebrated for his Group 1 triumphs, will grace the track once more as he partners with Linas Reel, trained by the esteemed duo of Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman, in the sixth race of the evening – the inaugural Southside Challenge. Nolen’s return to the saddle marks a significant milestone following his unfortunate trackwork incident at Pakenham in early February. The fall resulted in injuries to his back and pelvis, alongside internal bleeding and a fractured rib. Despite the setbacks, the resilient 43-year-old underwent surgery to address the internal bleeding and demonstrated his determination by returning to action at the Pakenham jump-outs on March 19. Horse racing news View the full article

This day 30th March in horse racing news history From the extensive Horse Betting news archives we present the all the thoroughbred racing action in Australian and overseas racing news in history. Delve in and enjoy our walk back in horse racing time. Australia horse racing news 12 months ago I’m Thunderstruck put down after shocking accident Two-time Group 1 winner – I’m Thunderstruck – has sadly been put down on veterinary advice after suffering an injury … Read More Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago Randwick race-by-race preview & quaddie | The Championships Day 1 Day 1 of The Championships is upon us and HB’s Nathan Keven has gone through each race on Saturday’s 10-race … Read More Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago 2023 ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes preview & best bets | April 1 The Group 1 ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) is one of four Group 1 races at Randwick on Saturday. Check … Read More Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago 2023 Australian Derby betting preview & tips | Saturday, April 1 The Group 1 Australian Derby (2400m) for three-year-olds is set to be run and won on Saturday at Randwick. Check … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 12 months ago NZ Derby hero still Sharp ‘N’ Smart Triple Group One winner Sharp ‘N’ Smart is ready to put his best foot forward when he contests Saturday’s $2 … Read More Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago Saturday’s Ascot best bets & quaddie tips | April 1, 2023 Ascot will host the annual Roma Cup Day meeting this Saturday, and HorseBetting.com’s Ciaran Jackman has provided his best bets … Read More Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago Morphettvile racing preview & best bets | Saturday, April 1 The Listed Clare Lindop Stakes headlines the action out of Morphettville on Saturday afternoon. HorseBetting’s James Herbert presents his best … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 12 months ago Lightning poised to strike in Classic South Auckland trainers Peter and Dawn Williams have all but ruled out a hit-and-run Sydney finale to end Desert Lightning’s … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 12 months ago Human error responsible for Tokyo Tycoon positive Te Akau Racing have confirmed that human error was responsible for the post-race positive result to meloxicam returned by top … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 12 months ago Buyers circling Avondale-bound Hero Steven Cole isn’t sure how long he will have youngster There Goes My Hero in his care, but plans for … Read More Australia horse racing news, Horse Racing News 12 months ago Darwin trio aim for back to back wins, Nash seeks more success If three last start winners can maintain their form they will take some stopping at the Darwin meeting at Fannie … Read More Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago Bendigo racing preview & quaddie tips | Golden Mile Day 2023 It is Golden Mile Day at Bendigo on Saturday afternoon, and HorseBetting’s James Herbert presents his best bets and quaddie … Read More Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago Doomben best bets, top odds & quaddie tips | April 1, 2023 Racing will return to Doomben this Saturday for a nine-race program. HorseBetting’s Ciaran Jackman presents his best bets and quaddie … Read More Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago 2023 Doncaster Mile tips & betting strategy | Saturday, April 1 The time-honoured Group 1 Doncaster Mile is set to be a barnstormer. See our betting selections for Saturday’s Group 1 … Read More Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago 2023 TJ Smith Stakes preview & best bets | Saturday, April 1 The 2023 TJ Smith Stakes is one of the four Group 1 features on Day 1 of The Championships. HB’s … Read More Horse Racing Tips 1 year ago Today’s horse racing tips & best bets | March 30, 2023 Six horse racing meetings is scheduled around Australia today. See the top tips and quaddie selections for free here at … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 1 year ago Forsman seeking another Australian Derby Andrew Forsman has won two previous editions of the Group 1 Australian Derby (2400m) but will be looking to snare … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news 1 year ago Frankie Lor bolsters title defence with Sha Tin treble Frankie Lor reclaimed second place in the Hong Kong trainers’ championship with a Sha Tin treble on Wednesday night to … Read More Australia horse racing news 2 years ago Cummings aiming to repeat the dose in Adrian Knox Ed Cummings is hoping that a few gear changes and a soft barrier can be enough for talented filly I’m … Read More Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago Cranbourne tips, odds & quaddie picks | Friday, April 1 Friday night racing continues at Cranbourne this week with an eight-race card in the waiting for punters to dive into … Read More Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago 2022 ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes betting guide | April 2, 2022 HorseBetting’s Sydney racing expert brings you his top selections in Saturday’s ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes at Royal Randwick. The Golden … Read More Australia horse racing news, Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago 2022 Australian Derby betting tips & strategy | Saturday, April 2 HorseBetting’s Sydney racing analyst presents his best bets in Saturday’s Group 1 AJC Australian Derby (2400m), where a capacity field … Read More Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago 2022 TJ Smith Stakes preview & betting strategy | April 2 HorseBetting’s Nicholas Lloyd presents his $100 betting strategy and race preview of the 2022 TJ Smith Stakes, which will be … Read More Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago Pakenham tips, odds & quaddie picks | Thursday, March 31 Twilight racing continues at Pakenham on Thursday evening with an eight-race card in the waiting for punters to dissect. HorseBetting’s … Read More Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago Today’s horse racing tips & best bets | March 30, 2022 Six horse racing meetings are scheduled around Australia today. See the top tips, best odds and quaddie selections here at … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news 2 years ago Sprint Cup test for Master Eight as FWD Champions Day looms large Master Eight has a long way to go if he is to fill the void left by the brilliant Mr … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news 2 years ago Ting chases Sprint Cup repeat with Computer Patch Jimmy Ting stunned Sha Tin last year when Amazing Star landed the Group 2 Sprint Cup (1200m) at odds of … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 2 years ago Hong Kong-bound Richards bows out of New Zealand racing He may have racked up 53 Group One winners during his six-and-a-half years training for Te Akau Racing but Jamie … Read More Australia horse racing news, New Zealand horse racing news 2 years ago Kiwis return strong dress rehearsals Six of the best in the Group 1 Australian Derby (2400m) for Murray Baker became more of a reality at … Read More Australia horse racing news 2 years ago Bella Vella out of retirement and preparing for Group 1 comeback Star mare Bella Vella is again out of retirement and eyeing a return to the racetrack after another failed stint … Read More Australia horse racing news 3 years ago Juvenile winners heading for the paddock Feature Group 1 two-year-old winners Stay Inside and Artorius are heading for a spell ahead of their three-year-old campaigns … Read More Australia horse racing news 3 years ago Munitions ready to roll in Victoria Handicap Godolphin import Munitions is yet to set the world on fire but he may get that opportunity in the Group … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 3 years ago Force Of Will primed for Vinery Group Three winner Force Of Will has arrived in Sydney ahead of her tilt at the Group 1 Vinery Stud … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 3 years ago Weather to dictate state for Sword Plans for Group One winning juvenile Sword Of State will be determined by the volume of rain in the coming … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 3 years ago Melody Belle settles in well ahead of Sydney swansong New Zealand’s darling of the turf, Melody Belle, has crossed the Tasman and has settled in well to her Randwick … Read More Horse Racing Tips 3 years ago Doomben racing tips & best odds | Wednesday, March 31 HorseBetting.com.au’s Queensland form analyst has found his best bets, value picks and quadrella selections for the Doomben meeting on Wednesday, … Read More Australia horse racing news 3 years ago Moroney pair to enjoy Sydney weather Fine weather in Sydney in the lead up to the Tancred Stakes at Rosehill is music to the ears of … Read More Horse Racing Tips 3 years ago Warwick Farm tips, odds & value bets | Wednesday, March 31 HorseBetting.com.au brings you the best bets, value tips and quaddie numbers for the Warwick Farm race meeting on Wednesday, March … Read More Horse Racing Tips 3 years ago Sandown Hillside tips, odds & quaddie | Wednesday, March 31 HorseBetting.com.au brings you the best bets, top odds and expert quaddie selections for the Sandown Hillside meeting on Wednesday, March … Read More Australia horse racing news 3 years ago Today’s horse racing tips & best bets | March 30, 2021 There are four horse racing meetings being held down the east coast of Australia this afternoon. Our racing analysts here … Read More Horse Racing News 3 years ago Punt Drunk: Returning star aiming for another Everest tilt Punt Drunk takes a look at some of the top stories in racing over the past 24 hours, including the … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Boss with chance for eighth Doncaster Mile Seven-time winning jockey Glen Boss will ride Brandenburg in the Doncaster Mile while six-time winning trainer Chris Waller will saddle … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Newnham believes racing can continue Group One-winning trainer Mark Newnham believes racing can keep going with participants doing their part to adhere to all the … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Bosson on Quick Thinker in Australian Derby New Zealander Quick Thinker will back up in the Australian Derby with Opie Bosson replacing James McDonald who is committed … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Mark Newnham eyes Derby, Doncaster glory Mark Newnham’s four Group One wins have come at Randwick and he hopes to add to his tally with Shadow … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago RV reduces prize money, stands down staff Racing Victoria has announced reductions in prize money contributions and has stood down staff … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Prize money cuts understandable: Bott In-form trainer Adrian Bott supports the measures being taken to try to keep racing going during the coronavirus pandemic … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Top Qld jockeys split into two regions Queensland’s top metropolitan jockeys have been split into two regions as the state’s racing is divided into zones … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Wyong Provincial Championship heat rescheduled The washed out Provincial Championships Qualifier at Wyong will now be run at Newcastle … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news 4 years ago Fabulous five for Moreira makes it a ‘Magic’ 900 Joao Moreira became only the fourth jockey in Hong Kong history to reach 900 wins and he did it in … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago James McDonald enjoys day out at Rosehill James McDonald has taken riding honours at Rosehill with a stakes race treble of two Group One wins and Mister … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Mystery Love earns spell after Guineas win Mystery Love is heading for a spell with the spring in mind after collecting black-type in the Listed Bendigo Guineas … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Avilius wins the Group One Tancred Stakes Avilius has won the Tancred Stakes to complete a Group One weight-for-age double during the Golden Slipper carnival … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Haripour lands the Golden Mile at Bendigo Haripour has taken out the Golden Mile at Bendigo at his second start for the Chris Waller stable … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Waller pulls the right rein with Elleegant Classy filly Verry Elleegant has responded to some key changes and confirmed her Oaks credentials with a brilliant win in … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Sydneysider Tonsor could return for winter Jockey Robbie Fradd is keen for Sydney galloper Tonsor to return for the winter carnival after his brilliant win at … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Siren’s Fury claims Star Kingdom Stakes It was down to the wire but Siren’s Fury has won the Star Kingdom Stakes at Rosehill … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Verry Elleegant wins G1 Vinery Stud Stakes Verry Elleegant has taken out the Group One Vinery Stud Stakes, the principal lead-up race to the ATC Australian Oaks … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Bullish Brown helps Gem shine at Rosehill A positive ride by Corey Brown has helped Invincible Gem break a winning drought in the Group Two Emancipation Stakes … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Miss Siska wins first-up for Grahame Begg Stable newcomer Miss Siska has scored an impressive first-up win for Graham Begg in the Bendigo Gold Bracelet … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Yourdeel completes NZ juvenile G1 double Yourdeel has cemented his position as New Zealand’s best two-year-old with victory in the Group One Manawatu Sires Produce Stakes … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Angel Of Truth eyes ATC Australian Derby The Gwenda Markwell-trained Angel Of Truth is eyeing the ATC Australian Derby after taking out the Tulloch Stakes at Rosehill … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Prince Of Sussex impressive in Bendigo win A $1 million race at Caulfield has become the focus for trainer Matt Laurie after the impressive win of Prince … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Early Rosehill double for Tulloch Lodge Rosehill winner Bellevue Hill will get his chance in a Group One race after missing a start in the Golden … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Consistent Le Juge heads for winter riches Le Juge will be rewarded for his consistency with a chance to tackle the winter carnival after his Doomben win … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Mandela Effect keeps Brunton fires burning Mandela Effect has won eight of his past 10 starts with his Tasmanian trainer Scott Brunton thinking of a winter … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Decision time looms for Nolan-trained 2YO Trainer Michael Nolan will have to start making some decisions about his filly Miss Cavallo after she won at Doomben … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Kris Lees powers into winter carnival mode Newcastle trainer Kris Lees indicated he was ready for a big winter carnival when Power Command won at Doomben … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Melbourne Cup champ ready for Dubai return Charlie Appleby expects his Melbourne Cup hero Cross Counter to prove “very hard to beat” in the Dubai Gold Cup … Read More United Arab Emirates horse racing news, USA horse racing news 6 years ago Bob Baffert eyeing fourth Dubai World Cup Bob Baffert is eyeing a fourth win in the Dubai World Cup with West Coast and Mubtaahij representing the American … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Kopi Luwak out of NSW Country Championship Final The Danny Williams-trained Kopi Luwak has been withdrawn from the Country Championship final because of injury … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Purcell aims to bow out a Group One winner with Aloisia Aloisia gave caretaker trainer Aaron Purcell his first Group One win and could give him his last for the time … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Auvray fit for Tancred Stakes challenge Trainer Richard Freedman and his brother Anthony will go head to head in the Group One Tancred Stakes wtih Auvray … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Fish ‘N’ Snitz to stake her Brisbane Winter Carnival claims Flashy filly Fish ‘N’ Snitz is out to show there is more to her than just a clever name when … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Ellerton-Zahra after Easter feature double Odeon and Sword Of Light will be racing for a Group Three feature double for Mathew Ellerton and Simon Zahra … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Prolific winners unite at Doomben Country galloper De Villiers gets a chance to add to his prolific win strike rate when he joins the Ben … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Fox Swift to bounce back at Caulfield Already a stakes-winning filly, three-year-old Fox Swift will be tested for a tilt at Group company when she runs at … Read More Australia horse racing news, Ireland horse racing news, United Kingdom Horse Racing News 6 years ago Caravaggio to shuttle to Australia Brilliant sprinter Caravaggio will join the Coolmore Australia stallion roster in the upcoming breeding season … Read More United Arab Emirates horse racing news 6 years ago Reynaldothewizard set to conjure some magic If Reynaldothewizard is within striking distance of the leaders in the closing stages of the Dubai Golden Shaheen sponsored by … Read More United Arab Emirates horse racing news 6 years ago Charlie Appleby looking for win on Dubai World Cup night Godolphin trainer Charlie Appleby is looking to his brilliant Gold Town to fulfil a lifetime ambition and provide him with … Read More United Arab Emirates horse racing news 6 years ago Talismanic not just a pretty face French handler Andre Fabre, who is hoping that Talismanic can provide him with a victory in the Dubai World Cup … Read More United Kingdom Horse Racing News 6 years ago Winners Of Excellence Awards Announced The winners of the His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Horse racing Excellence Awards for horse racing excellence, … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 6 years ago Racing news: Track to run in Gallante’s favour Underfoot conditions will play into Gallante’s favour when he makes his New Zealand debut in Saturday’s Gr.2 City of Palmerston … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 6 years ago Gift Of Power primed for Trophy Premier at Awapuni A sizzling trial from her favourite horse Gift Of Power has Hamilton trainer Bailey Rogerson buzzing ahead of Saturday’s The … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 6 years ago Yearn to avoid to Group 1 Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes The connections of Yearn have decided against going to the well once too often with the talented mare and she … Read More United Arab Emirates horse racing news 6 years ago Dubai World Cup features – Roy H’s Evolution from Under-Performer to Champion Once a distracted colt who did not focus on his racing, Roy H enters the Dubai Golden Shaheen sponsored by … Read More United Arab Emirates horse racing news 6 years ago Dubai Race Notes, Friday, March 30 Jordan Sport – Continued his build-up to Saturday’s big race with a gentle workout at Al Quoz. The speedster is … Read More United Arab Emirates horse racing news 6 years ago Dubai World Cup Race Notes, Friday, March 30, 2018 Awardee – Had an easy canter around the dirt track. “Everything has been under control,” trainer Mikio Matsunaga said. “As … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Midget McCreery to slay Doncaster giants McCreery might be small in stature but he has a big engine to help overcome the tall poppies in the … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Sires’ Produce Stakes facts What you need to know about the $1 million Sires’ Produce Stakes … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Fast facts about the Australian Derby A look at the Australian Derby – the blue riband for three-year-olds … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago TJ Smith Stakes facts and figures What you need to know about the $2.5 million TJ Smith Stakes … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Sydney Cup still a possibility for Tavago A Sydney Cup start is still a possibility for Tavago who pulled up lame after finishing last in the Group … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Gosford meeting on ice after downpour Weather continues to blight meetings in NSW with Gosford disrupted for the third time this month … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Tommy Berry is keeping faith in Chautauqua Jockey Tommy Berry is predicting Chautauqua can bounce back to winning form and claim an unprecedented third TJ Smith Stakes … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago NZ Derby holds up as testing ground The NZ Derby has again emerged as the ideal preparation for its Australian equivalent at Randwick as Gingernuts and Jon … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Bendigo Guineas return for Mandalay Bay Lightly raced gelding Mandalay Bay makes his return in the Bendigo Guineas after a wrenched fetlock ended his spring campaign … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Godolphin seeks fillip in Chairman’s Hcp Godolphin’s raiding party is seeking a change of fortune at Randwick after The Gold Trail’s devastating Australian debut at Mornington … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Jameka’s international travel clouded A bout of travel sickness has ruled Jameka out of a clash with Winx and her international campaign is in … Read More Australia horse racing news, Horse Racing Tips 7 years ago 2017 Nathan Berry Medal markets, news and predictions SOME of the world’s best jockeys will be on show at Randwick during The Championships and they will be competing … Read More Australia horse racing news, Horse Racing Tips 7 years ago Inglis Sires Produce form, odds and free tips – The Championships AUSTRALIA’S most talented juveniles go into battle this Saturday for the Group 1 Inglis Sires’ Produce and what a field … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Stable favourite chasing first stakes win Matt Cumani is hoping to keep his Bendigo record intact as Show A Star attempts to give the trainer his … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Cooroi to chase wet track win After winning a trial by 16 lengths on a wet track two-year-old Cooroi Chase is ready for her debut at … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Brown banking on Menari to upstage fillies Corey Brown will chase his first Group One win in Sydney in six years when he teams with Menari in … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Still hope Doomben races can go ahead Doomben racecourse is saturated after heavy rain two days before its next meeting … Read More Australia horse racing news, Horse Racing Tips 7 years ago Group 1 T.J. Smith Stakes betting guide, form, odds and race tips BETTING on the T.J. Smith Stakes has also been popular for punters and given the past winners of the sprinting … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Pomelo still Provincial C’ship favourite Kembla Grange mare Pomelo remains the favourite for the Provincial Championship final ahead of the placegetters from the Newcastle heat … Read More Australia horse racing news, Horse Racing Tips 7 years ago 2017 Doncaster Mile betting market, form guide and free tips THE Championships are upon us and the highlight race on day one at Randwick is the $3 million Group 1 … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago No Ibuprofen charges for Weir, McDonald Darren Weir and Clinton McDonald will not face charges of using ibuprofen after a Racing Victoria stewards investigation … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Hayes with two chances in Sires’ Produce David Hayes will have two runners with stakes-winning Melbourne form heading into the Group One Sires’ Produce Stakes in Sydney … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago NZ raiders’ Australian Derby bid grounded ATC Australian Derby hopeful What’s The Story is still in New Zealand after a flight delay … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Facts and Figures on the Australian Derby A look at the history of the Group One Australian Derby … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Facts and Figures on the Doncaster Mile A look at the history of the Group One Doncaster Mile … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Time To Torque in favourable comparison Kelly Chief Stipehty has trained Black Cash to win seven races, but she says Ipswich winner Time To Torque could turn … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Exosphere flying high before G1 TJ Smith Godolphin colt Exosphere has impressed trainer John O’Shea in his final gallop before the TJ Smith Stakes at Randwick … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Rain key to Azkadellia in Doncaster: Maher A soft track for the Doncaster Mile will enhance the claims of the Ciaron Maher-trained Azkadellia in the $3 million … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Pemberley in Mornington Cup bid for Maher Promising stayer Pemberley is a first emergency to make his debut for Ciaron Maher in the Mornington Cup … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Winks reprieve over careless riding ban James Winks is free to ride at the Mornington Cup meeting after having the term of a careless riding ban … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Country race caller Tait gets Randwick gig NSW country race caller James Tait will call his first race at Randwick on one of the biggest days on … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Makybe’s son tested over marathon distance The son of Horse of the Year winners Lonhro and Makybe Diva is set to run over 3400m at Mornington … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Rain key to Azkadellia in Doncaster: Maher A soft track for the Doncaster Mile will enhance the claims of the Ciaron Maher-trained Azkadellia in the $3 million … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Under double wraps: Does Winx get the love she deserves? Horsebetting’s resident tipster, form analyst and racing tragic, Daryl Curnow, takes a look at the big issues in the racing … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Ben Currie keen to explore expansion plans Love Spy and Honey Toast will carry Ben Currie’s Doomben hopes as the young trainer considers his stable’s future … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Willie Mullins targets Aintree meeting Champion Irish trainer Willie Mullins is now odds-on to win his first British jumps title with the news he will … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Telperion favourite to win Sires’ Produce Godolphin colt Telperion and the David Vandyke-trained filly Yankee Rose occupy the top two lines of betting for the Group … Read More View the full article

Pearl Of Alsace will contest the Group 1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) at Ellerslie on Saturday. Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North) Trainers Shaune Ritchie and Colm Murray have always had plenty of time for Pearl Of Alsace and they are hoping she can fulfil her Group One potential at Ellerslie this weekend. Bred and raced by Sir Peter Vela, the daughter of Tavistock has come a long way in just 12 starts, winning her first five outings, including the Group 3 Cuddle Stakes (1600m), and subsequently added a further two victories to her tally. She placed in the Group 1 Livamol Classic (2040m) at Hastings last September, but her connections believe she has an elite-level win in her and are hoping she can do it on Saturday in the Group 1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m). She takes winning form into the race, having taken out the Royal Descent Stakes (1600m) at Trentham earlier this month, and her trainers couldn’t be happier with her ahead of her weekend assignment, “She has only had 12 starts so she is the rookie of the field against the other mares who are pretty experienced,” Ritchie told Trackside NZ. “She is a high-quality mare and is a Group One mare in waiting, and I hope for our sake that it is this weekend. “I don’t think we can get her in better order. She has got a great record second-up and she had a nice, soft kill first-up, so she has bounced away and improved off that.” Horse racing news View the full article

Belclare will attempt to defend her crown in Saturday’s Group 1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) at Ellerslie. Photo: Race Images Awapuni raider Belclare will attempt a rare feat when she heads to Ellerslie to defend her title in Saturday’s Group 1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m). There have been no back-to-back winners of the prestigious fillies and mares’ feature since it was elevated to Group One status in 2002. Belclare produced a career-best performance in last year’s edition of the Breeders’ Stakes, which was run at Pukekohe. The daughter of Per Incanto burst to the lead in the straight and left a quality field in her wake, scoring by three lengths over subsequent Group One winner Skew Wiff. That Group One triumph capped a highly successful season for Belclare, who had previously won the Group 3 Canterbury Breeders’ Stakes (1400m) and Listed Wairarapa Breeders’ Stakes (1600m). Rain-affected tracks have been a frequent stumbling block for Belclare in her six-year-old season, but the high point came when she won the Group 2 Westbury Classic (1400m) at Ellerslie in late January. That was her only career start so far at northern headquarters, and it improved her right-handed record to three starts for two outstanding Group wins. Belclare heads into this year’s Breeders’ Stakes on the back of an unplaced finish in last month’s Group 1 Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m), but she has since scored a trial win over Papa Surf and Lantern Way. “I think we can definitely put her last-start performance down to the wet track at Otaki that day,” trainer Lisa Latta said. “All of her best form is on dry ground, and as soon as it gets too wet, she really doesn’t perform at all. “But she’s had a great few weeks since that race. She won a trial earlier this month, then had another jumpout last week just to keep her up to the mark. She went really nicely in both of those.” Belclare will be ridden by Sam Spratt, whose five previous mounts on the mare have produced victories in the Breeders’ Stakes and Westbury Classic, along with a strong-finishing fourth in the Group 2 Foxbridge Plate (1200m) in the spring. Horse racing bookmakers rate Belclare a +650 fourth favourite for the Breeders’ Stakes behind La Crique (+230), Pearl Of Alsace (+300) and Mustang Valley (+450). “She goes well with a bit of space between her runs, and I think she’s had the right sort of build-up to this race,” Latta said. “She seemed to like that new track at Ellerslie when she ran in the Westbury there. “I think she’s going into this race in similar sort of shape to when she won it at Pukekohe last year. I couldn’t be happier with her. She’s drawn to get a nice run.” Horse racing news View the full article

by Walter Toner Rainy afternoon on Cape Cod and I had a few minutes to kill, so flipped the channel to TVG for a quick flutter. I selected the filly Just Like Magic, approaching the gate at 7-5 as the recipient of a $10 win wager in the 3rd race Oaklawn (3/28). She charged up the rail and won. Final odds were 3-5. WTF. Sorry for the crudeness. Racing will never engage the next generation of punters with 15-27% takeout and NO fixed odds, when they can bet on sports with a 4% vig and wagers that are fixed. In the UK, an extremely sophisticated betting market, exchange wagering in its 20-year history now handles 85% of wagers, plus or minus. Further exacerbating the industry's vulnerability is the contents of this article. My takeaway from this article is that Stronach and his friends: Own racetracks Own offshore betting hubs for friends From these hubs, friends receive substantial discounts to wager into onshore pools And we can assume the friends are getting late, direct access to track pools… and perhaps entering the pool after the start Now the late betting is speculation on my part. It feels like it happens. And from the first four bullets, it seems suspiciously like that might be happening. This insider activity stinks to high heaven, not just regular heaven. This beautiful sport is bucking these horrific headwinds of scandal and a less-than-competitive product. Yet racing will always have tremendous potential. But what is the point of one laboring all night on PPs to arrive at a horse that one feels should be 6-5 or 7-5, only to see that selection drop to 3-5 at the quarter pole? My introduction to racing was with Win Elliot, the Schaefer Circle of Sports, and Fred Capossella. Old timers can place an era on those names. My first Racing Form cost me 50 cents; what are they now, $10? I can make an informed wager on the Red Sox without that surcharge. Sadly I am not sure that I'm going to ever see the industry make any real progress making horse racing as competitive and accessible as other wagering products. Thanks for reading. The post Letter to the Editor: CAW ‘Activity Stinks to High Heaven’ appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

There is one horse who has the racing world buzzing in Dubai World Cup (G1) week and he is not from any of the Japanese, American, or European powerhouse operations that have come to dominate. He is from Kazakhstan.View the full article

Woodford Thoroughbreds' John Sykes has sold his historic 1,000-acre farm in Reddick, Fla., and refocused his operation on high-class race fillies and a commercial broodmare band.View the full article

Godolphin's homebred Knightsbridge made a dazzling return March 28 at Gulfstream Park, scoring a nine-length victory in his first start since capturing his debut last fall at Churchill Downs. The Pat Day Mile (G2) could be next for the colt.View the full article

Keeneland welcomed new sponsors of two stakes that will be run during the Spring Meet: Resolute Racing, which is sponsoring the $600,000 Madison (G1) April 6, and MiddleGround Capital, which is sponsoring the $400,000 Beaumont (G2) April 7. View the full article

Counting the well-mannered colt's strides as she takes him to the seven-eighths pole on a brisk Wednesday morning breeze this week at Oaklawn Park, Laura Moquett knows precisely where she wants to be. She understands how much throttle to let out and what visual markers are presenting themselves. Clocking is useful, but it is more about listening intently as she moves forward. An accomplished horseman like Moquett relishes the routine; everyone does, but as an assistant trainer she is never shy when it comes to a good equine conundrum. In a vocation such as hers when you spend your time breaking and training Thoroughbreds to race the trade demands it. Time Hot Springs's own Harry T. Rosenblum, who co-owns Time for Truth (Omaha Beach) with Cheyenne Stables, has entered that well-mannered colt this Saturday in the GI Arkansas Derby and Moquett has played an integral part in 'Truth's' development. The road to the track's signature race has not been a cakewalk. Remember, it's horse racing. A case in point, the 3-year-old was spooked during one of those routine workouts one morning, but according to Moquett, in situations like these what seems to be a problem can turn into an invitation for growth. Laura Moquett breezing Time for Truth | Coady Photography “Jogging backwards a rider got dropped,” said Moquett. “It really made him [Time for Truth] fearful because it was a surprise and it was keeping him from moving forward, so we needed to figure out a way to address it by teaching him not to be afraid. He figured it out with a little help.” What Moquett did, along with fellow assistant Greta Kurtzweiler, was put a horse in front of the 3-year-old and show him how to move around obstacles. It seems like a simple fix. But it's not. The social cues and mechanisms from the saddle come from a long line of trial and error, which are based in the fundamentals of exercise riding. Moquett knows this; she's studied it through countless hours of developing her own horseman's database. It's a hard drive full of experiences. In her line of work, you have to consider anatomy, kinesiology, a dab of psychotherapy, and most of all, a heavy dosage of patience to solve a horse's Rubik's Cube. “You don't get on them and just steer with your hands,” explained Moquett. “It's about knowing their tendencies, listening and feeling their body movements. All of that comes from your legs and it has a lot to do with your weight distribution.” Listening The tried-and-true Socratic Method–asking a question and then receiving a response– works just fine in your garden-variety academic setting. However, when it comes to preparing Time for Truth for Saturday's career-defining race, what you really need is someone who understands a horse's language. Laura Moquett on her shedrow rounds | JN Campbell Someone who whispers to them? Sure, but it's equally important to know how to listen. Laura Moquett is one of those listeners. With an intuitive sense for animals which she had from a very young age, Moquett has honed her skills over the years working with Thoroughbreds around racetracks and after they have retired. As an assistant to husband Ron Moquett, Time for Truth's conditioner, the question she asked when the Thoroughbred first arrived as a juvenile last year is the same one she issues to any member of the barn: “How can this colt move forward?” “I like a good fixer,” Moquett said with a smile. “Maybe Ron understands that most of all, but what I am trying to do is guide energy. Horses can feel a fly, so what we do is help manage their senses by listening to what they tell us.” Origins Ron Moquett met his future wife on the backstretch while the two worked under trainer Bernie Flint in the mid-1990s. He understood early on what a natural gift for horsemanship she possessed and how equine athletes responded to her. “Laura can find ways to get along with some of the toughest horses,” Ron Moquett said. “Instead of making them perform a task, her connection to them–all animals really–is just incredibly special and she gets into their psyche by adapting to their own ideology.” Time for Truth with groom Jose Espinoza | Coady Photography Laura Moquett says there's a complex and evolving dialogue between the horses and the humans who care for them. Grooms, hotwalkers, van drivers, and of course, exercise riders all gravitate to a certain type of equine athlete. “Oh, we've all got a type, everyone in this barn does,” she said. “For me, I like a big-ass colt with an attitude.” Assistant Greta Kuntzweiler agreed, but she works well with a different sort. “Give me the nutty filly or the cranky old gelding,” she said. Truth As an integral member of Moquett Racing, Kuntzweiler guided Time for Truth, along with her mentor Laura Moquett, over the course of the past several months as the colt prepared for each new obstacle. Once he broke his maiden on the last day of the year, the dark bay out of the Lookin At Lucky mare Shape Shifter had to endure time off due to a frozen second half of January, which caused his workout regimen to be altered. An unlucky stall accident the week of the GII Rebel S. waylaid his next start, but the team behind him kept him on course. Time for Truth successfully traversed the two-turn conundrum against optional claimers at Oaklawn earlier this month, which set up the opportunity to enter the starting gate this Saturday. “Working with Laura and Ron over the years, I've learned to take on challenges one step at a time, really watch how she develops the ones who need the most help,” Kuntzweiler said. “Ninety-nine percent of the time, the answer is to go forward.” Already at Churchill Downs for the coming meet, the assistant trainer credits Moquett with teaching her everything she knows. That's a high compliment coming from a former jockey who rode competitively, and continues to evolve. “When my business [as a jockey] began to dry up, it was time to start thinking about a new direction and watching Laura work has really helped me add a whole new dimension to my own bag of tricks,” she said. Greta Kuntzweiler aboard Time for Truth | courtesy of Robert Yates Tricks Moquett began to expand said bag when she started show jumping with OTTBs–like MGISW Whitmore (Pleasantly Perfect)–who can start new careers once their days racing and breeding are over. What she learned through this whole other universe was a different kind of problem-solving, which got her to look more inwardly at the horse–like a football player who takes ballet. “Education in the jumping has helped my training by understanding body mechanics,” she said. “That has made me rethink how I approach 2-year-olds when they first hit the track, and it also makes me think about how we communicate with our own riders.” Moquett is especially in-tune when it comes to checking a horse's legs every morning for any issues and looking for social cues during training. Communicating those observations to her husband and also to the jockeys, like Time for Truth's regular rider Rafael Bejarano, is an essential part of the conduit of information. It only adds to a jockey's toolbox. “Greta is the one who has done such a wonderful job of talking to jockeys and doing it in such a way that is constructive,” said Moquett. “That really shows her attention to detail. Rafael was the first to hear about Time for Truth's new ability to pass, and that will give him the confidence to make the right decision during Saturday's race when the moment comes.” Time for Truth with Rafael Bejarano up | Coady Photography Saturday Can someone with Moquett's background and training history over decades of development lead Time for Truth to a win in the Arkansas Derby? Moquett offers a practical response. “All we can answer is the question of is our horse ready?” she said. “Everyone in this barn is forward first and what this is about is running his best race. What we have done is get this specific horse to run in a specific way. He has the mind and the temperament. The rest is up to him. I will tell you though, Saturday can't come soon enough” Laura Moquett might be a self-described creature of the backside much more than the front, but what she has continued to showcase with her professionalism and penchant for solving equine puzzles makes her a horseman through and through. She will keep searching for the next good fixer or, like in the case of Time for Truth, another big-ass colt. The post Laura Moquett’s Search For A ‘Good Fixer’ On The Eve Of The Arkansas Derby appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Horse racing bookmakers have unveiled an array of enticing racing promotions for Friday, March 29. 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 March 29, 2024, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions Cranbourne Races 1 & 2 Run 2nd or 3rd Bonus Back Up To $50 Back a runner in races 1 & 2 at Cranbourne this Friday and if it runs 2nd or 3rd get up to $50 in Bonus Cash. Fixed Win bets only. Neds Terms and Conditions apply. Login to Neds to Claim Promo Cranbourne Races 1-4 Run 2nd or 3rd Bonus Back Up To $25 Get your stake back in bonus bets. Limits apply. Playup 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 Ascot – 25% Boosted Winnings Paid in Bonus Cash. First Fixed Win Cash Bet. Max Bonus $250. T&Cs Apply. 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 Friday Bonus Back 2nd ALL RACES at Cranbourne 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, March 29, 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

Friday, March 29 promises an exciting day of horse racing with six 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 Ascot, Cranbourne and Yarra Valley races. Friday Racing Tips – March 29, 2024 Ascot Racing Tips Cranbourne Racing Tips Yarra Valley Racing Tips 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 March 29, 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

'TDN Rising Star' Knightsbridge (c, 3, Nyquist–Tyburn Brook, by Bernardini), a jaw-dropping debut winner going seven furlongs at Churchill Downs Nov. 4, returned to the races in style in an optional claimer at Gulfstream Park Thursday afternoon. The 1-9 favorite, drawn widest of all in post five, broke alertly and held a narrow advantage through an opening quarter in :23.40. Facing continued pressure through a half mile in :45.40, he began to shake free turning for home and dropped the hammer in the stretch while racing under wraps to win for fun. Sea Streak (Sea Wizard) was second. The final time for the one-turn mile was 1:36.75. Lifetime Record: 2-2-0-0. O/B-Godolphin (KY); T-Bill Mott. Knightsbridge wins with authority in the 6th race under @JuniorandKellyA. #GulfstreamPark #ChampionshipMeet pic.twitter.com/Uwj28j2WA3 — Gulfstream Park (@GulfstreamPark) March 28, 2024 The post Unbeaten ‘TDN Rising Star’ Knightsbridge Back With Authority at Gulfstream appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Trainer Charlie Appleby revealed at a Dubai World Cup conference March 28 that 2023 Breeders' Cup Mile (G1T) hero Master of The Seas has landed in Lexington and will make his next start in the April 12 Maker's Mark Mile Stakes (G1T) at Keeneland.View the full article

John Stewart, who owns Resolute Racing and founded MiddleGround Capital, will sponsor two Keeneland dirt sprint stakes which will be run opening weekend of the Spring Meet, the track said in a release on Thursday. Resolute Racing will add its name to the $600,000 GI Madison S. which will run on Saturday, Apr. 6, while MiddleGround Capital will sponsor the $400,000 GII Beaumont S. on Sunday, April 7. “My partner Scot Duncan and I have always enjoyed taking our family, friends, co-workers and investors to the races at Keeneland,” Stewart said. “The Spring Meet is a significant event for the local community and the Thoroughbred horse racing industry. Everyone in Kentucky looks forward to the Spring Meet with enthusiasm and optimism. We are honored to support these prestigious events that historically represent the Bluegrass region as well as many of the best competitors in horse racing.” John Stewart | Keeneland Among the winners of the newly-minted Resolute Racing Madison is Goodnight Olive (Ghostzapper), who Stewart purchased last year and then retired from racing. Fans will be able to see the two-time Eclipse Award winner who is currently in foal to Not This Time while she is paraded in the Paddock between 8:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. ET. Apr. 6 during Keeneland's Sunrise Trackside program. “Keeneland is pleased to welcome Resolute Racing and MiddleGround Capital to our team of race sponsors,” Keeneland Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Christa Marrillia said. “Their participation signifies John Stewart's passion and growing involvement in the Thoroughbred industry.” The post Stewart’s Resolute Racing And MiddleGround Capital To Sponsor April Keeneland Stakes, Goodnight Olive To Appear appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Kilgame (Fr) (Jeu St Eloi {Fr}) (lot 1) topped the Arqana March Online Sale at €300,000 on the bid of Alex Elliott's Elliott Bloodstock Services and NBB Racing's Nicolas Bertran de Balanda, on Thursday. Placed over hurdles, the Gabriel Leenders-consigned dark bay is from the family of G1 Grand Prix d'Autumne winner Millenium Royal (Fr) (Mansonnien {Fr}). Haras de la Hetraie's Kantagua Du Large (Fr) (Great Pretender {Ire}) (lot 6) went to Guy Petit for €68,000. The listed-placed chaser is a half-sister to the stakes-placed Farceur Du Large (Fr) (Turgeon). Also sold was the 4-year-old filly Trheligonne (Fr) (Sant Des Saints {Fr}) (lot 3) for €21,000 to Caeau Bloodstock. Also consigned by Hetraie, she is a granddaughter of G3 Prix Andre Michel winner Eliga (Fr) (Turgeon), who foaled the Grade 1 winner Srelighonn (Fr) (Martaline {GB}). The gross of the three lots was €389,000. The post Kilgame Brings 300k At Arqana Online appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Two 1 1/2-mile stakes races on Florida Derby Day on the Gulfstream Park turf course—the $200,000 Pan American Stakes (G2T) for older runners and the $150,000 Orchid Stakes (G3T) for fillies and mares—have a French flavor.View the full article

The Road, presented by Gainesway and Darby Dan FarmView the full article

The Macau Jockey Club hosts its final race meeting March 30 with a 14-race card, providing trainers, jockeys, and hundreds of stable staff and administrators, who are facing career oblivion, one last chance to shine at Taipa. View the full article

For me personally, what a weird coincidence that earlier this week, TDN published a wonderful essay by its columnist Chris McGrath, who spent time with three of the industry's “elder statesman,” among them Ercel Ellis. For it was Ellis who, 40 years ago this coming week, made a decision that altered the course of my life. McGrath obviously had a wonderful time at Lil's Coffee House in Paris, Ky., listening to the yarns spun by Ellis, now 92, renowned veterinarian Bob Copelan (97), and the youngster of the trio, Stone Farm owner Arthur Hancock (81). Forty years ago, when I was a mere 25 and Ellis 52, he decided to leave his position as breeding columnist for Daily Racing Form to train a small string of horses he and his wife owned. I was interviewed by Logan Bailey, who managed the small Daily Racing Form office in Lexington, and was offered the position Ellis was vacating. While Ellis grew up on Dixiana Farm–which his father managed–and had a wealth of knowledge about Thoroughbreds, my initial foray into the industry was as a handicapper (something I still enjoy today). Now any good handicapper inherently learns about pedigrees, but, honestly, I knew very little at the time about such topics as breeding and sales. During the interview, Logan (now deceased) asked me if I could spend time with any one person who would it be. I guess most people answer with the president, or an astronaut, or the Pope … I don't know. I said Secretariat. There were only four persons in the DRF office, which was located in the Keeneland clubhouse, in some of the track's original stalls. I often wondered what horses had stabled where I now had my desk and typewriter. I started the Monday after the Kentucky Derby, and that timing was also interesting. Because I had said I wanted to meet Secretariat, Logan had arranged for me to visit Claiborne Farm and do just that. The week after the 1984 Derby was special at Claiborne because the Derby winner, Swale (Seattle Slew–Tuerta, by Forli), was bred by Claiborne and raced by the farm in partnership with William Haggin Perry, Peter Brant and Edward Cox Jr. Here I was, just a few days after the Derby and new at my job, being shown not only Secretariat, but the incredible roster of stallions, by farm managers John Sosby and Gus Koch. That day, I briefly met farm president Seth Hancock, with whom I had numerous subsequent conversations over the years. Of course, the story of Swale ended up being bittersweet. He also won the GI Belmont S. for trainer Woody Stephens, but eight days later collapsed and died. Though no definitive cause was determined, an autopsy discovered lesions in the heart area which could have been responsible for his death. Chris McGrath, Ercel Ellis, Arthur Hancock and Dr. Robert Copelan | courtesy of Chris_McGrath. When Secretariat died Oct. 4, 1989, Logan informed me we would be allowed to attend his burial at Claiborne. But, the following morning, farm officials decided not to allow press members. We always respected that decision. I have seen Ercel only a few times over the years. But it is always a wonderful experience for me when I do because he has as encyclopedic mind when it comes to Thoroughbreds, able to recall races and pedigrees as if it were yesterday. I was truly honored a number of years ago when Ercel phoned and asked me to be interviewed on his radio show. I will never forget that 15 minutes. During my 25 years regularly covering racing and breeding at Daily Racing Form, The Racing Times and The Blood-Horse, Ercel is an example of those I always jumped at the chance to spend five minutes or five hours with–such as Bob Green, Bob Courtney, Henry White, Warner Jones, Carter Thornton, Alice Chandler, Ted Bassett, Gail Hughes, Brereton Jones, Johnny Griggs, Bruce Hundley, Johnny Jones … and countless others–because though green when I started, I became fascinated with the history and intricacies of the industry. It is hard to believe I was 25 when I started at Daily Racing Form and Ercel Ellis was 52. Now, I have recently started Medicare and Ercel is 92. Where would I be had Ercel Ellis not left Daily Racing Form? Yogi Berra said, “When you get to a fork in the road, take it.” Because of Ercel, there was a fork in the road, and I took it. I just hope those starting in the business today will find mentors not only as knowledgeable as those I was fortunate to have, but as willing to share their knowledge. The post Letter To The Editor: Ercel Ellis and The Decision That Altered My Life appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Repeat winners are rarities on the Dubai World Cup (G1) program and Sibelius has the chance to join those ranks if he can overcome a talented international field in the Dubai Golden Shaheen (G1) March 30.View the full article

With heavy rain forecast for this weekend, Santa Anita has canceled live racing March 30-31. A makeup card will be added next Thursday, April 4, with entries to be taken on Saturday.View the full article

The Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association of Ontario recently announced the appointment of Steven Lym as Executive Director.View the full article