Wandering Eyes

Death, taxes and Hong Kong winners by Deep Field (Aus). Of life's surest eventualities, the latter is definitely worthy of inclusion, and Voyage Bubble (Aus) will look to add to the stallion's impressive local record when he goes in search of a maiden Group 1 success in the G1 Stewards' Cup Sunday at Sha Tin. The chances of Voyage Bubble–and those of his seven rivals–have been done no damage by the absence of G1 Longines Hong Kong Mile hero Golden Sixty (Aus) (Medaglia d'Oro), who is on the mend and in slow work after suffering a minor injury. He has three months to get ready for the G1 FWD Champions Mile in late April, but in the meantime, the spotlight is there to be stolen–at least temporarily. The upset winner of last year's age-restricted Hong Kong Classic Mile and BMW Hong Kong Derby, Voyage Bubble was fourth to the reigning Horse of the Year in last year's Champions Mile and has run well without winning in two starts this term. A first-up third to Beauty Eternal (Aus) (Starspangledbanner {Aus}) and Beauty Joy (Aus) (Sebring {Aus}) in the G2 Jockey Club Mile Nov. 19, he outran a quote of $31 to finish closest to Golden Sixty on international day. James McDonald jets back into the SAR for trainer Ricky Yiu. “Let's see how much this horse can give,” said Yiu. “The impression I have is there is another level. I would say (I am) optimistic. He will definitely perform again.” Deep Field is the runaway leading sire in Hong Kong by number of winners (16) and progeny earnings (HK$36.7 million). A good run Sunday could translate into a first start on foreign soil for Voyage Bubble. “We'll see how he goes on Sunday and then we can definitely think about possible races for him to run overseas. Dubai and one of the races in Australia, maybe–there are a few options there,” said Yiu, who has entered Voyage Bubble for the G1 Dubai Turf at Meydan Mar. 30. Beauty Eternal could not repeat the dose in the Hong Kong Mile, finishing an even sixth as a $4.60 (18-5) chance. He will attempt to give trainer John Size a record-extending eighth win in the Stewards' Cup. “Beauty Eternal's trials have looked good,” said Purton, who carried the Patrick Kwok silks to victory aboard Beauty Generation (NZ) in 2019. “He seems to have come through his run in December in good shape and it'll be good to be back on him–hopefully he can produce his best.” Straight Arron (Aus) (Fastnet Rock {Aus}) was beaten 3/4 of a length into fourth–with some trouble–by Romantic Warrior (Ire) (Acclamation {GB}) in the G1 Longines Hong Kong Cup and is using this as a prep for either the G1 Citi Hong Kong Gold Cup (2000m) or potential overseas targets in Qatar and/or Dubai. The same applies for Russian Emperor (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}), who was sixth here before taking the Amir Trophy last February in Doha. California Spangle (Ire) (Starspangledbanner {Aus}) was third to Golden Sixty in last year's Stewards' Cup, but needs to lift on his current form, which includes a 13th in the Hong Kong Mile last time. The post Stewards’ Cup Offers ‘Golden’ Opportunity appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Having already lost the live racing program Saturday to wintry weather conditions, officials from the Maryland Jockey Club has also cancelled live racing for Sunday. The next scheduled program is Friday, Jan. 26, which is set to featuer the $100,000 What a Summer S. and the $100,000 Fire Plug S., each of which was originally programmed for the Jan. 20 card. The season's first 3-year-old stakes will take place next Saturday, Jan. 27, with the running of the $100,000 Xtra Heat S. for fillies and the Spectacular Bid S. for males. The Jennings S. and Geisha S., each restricted to Maryland-breds and offering prize money of $75,000, will be brought back for Sunday, Jan. 28. Laurel, Pimlico Race Course, Rosecroft Raceway and the MJC OTB network will remain open for simulcasting Sunday. The post Laurel Cancels Sunday Racing appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Edited Press Release The Board of Directors of New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Inc. (NYTB) held its first meeting of 2024 on Friday, Jan. 19. The newly seated board unanimously elected Dr. Scott Ahlschwede, D.V.M., to serve as Board President through 2026. Current NYTB director Seth Gregory, owner of Innisfree Farm and Seth Gregory Bloodstock, was elected to the office of Vice President. The board also elected Lere Visagie, owner of Rockridge Stud, to serve as Secretary-Treasurer. Dr. Ahlschwede is a shareholder veterinarian with Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital and owner of River Valley Farm. He has previously served as an NYTB director since 2016 and succeeds Thomas J. Gallo, III, managing partner of Dream Maker Racing Stable, Thomas J. Gallo, III Sales Agency, and owner of Blue Stone Farm, who previously served as NYTB President since 2015. “On behalf of our board of directors and membership, I want to thank Tom for his leadership of NYTB and am thankful he will remain a part of the board with his institutional knowledge and experience,” said Dr. Ahlschwede. “As President, I want to ensure we continue to increase and promote the benefits of breeding and foaling in New York with our fellow stakeholders as we work to sustain the Thoroughbred industry in New York and nationwide.” “I am proud of the work our organization has accomplished under my tenure as President. I look forward to continue working with Scott and our newly elected officers to ensure NYTB remains the unified voice of Thoroughbred breeders in the state,” said Gallo. The 2024 NYTB Officers and Board of Directors for 2024 is as follows: Officers: Dr. Scott Ahlschwede, D.V.M., shareholder with Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital and owner of River Valley Farm, President Seth Gregory, owner, Innisfree Farm and Seth Gregory Bloodstock, Vice President Lere Visagie, owner, Rockridge Stud, Secretary/Treasurer Directors: H. James Bond, Rick Burke, Lois Engel, Thomas J. Gallo, III, Michael Lischin, Vivien Malloy, Jane McMahon, Mallory Mort Directors Emeritus: Chester Broman, Suzie O'Cain, Joanne Nielsen The post NYTB Board Elects Ahlschwede As President appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The questionnaire series continues with trainer Diego Dias in the spotlight. Proudest moment of 2023? Mansa Musa (Ire) (Ten Sovereigns {Ire}) winning at Goodwood. It was a great day, the owners were there and everyone was very excited. It worked out as we planned and it was a great day. What is your biggest ambition for the new year? I'd like to win a Group race this year. Give us one horse to follow and why? I have to say Gaenari (Ire) (Inns Of Court {Ire}). She ran really well for us last year and, while she has not won yet, I think she's a filly to follow. She looks a different filly this year. And a young person in the industry to keep an eye on… Danny Sheehy. He rides a good bit for me. He's a very good rider but just needs the opportunities. I think he'll ride plenty of winners for us this year. Who do you think will be champion first-season sire this year? It's very hard to say but I liked the Pinatubos at the sales. The look like they are really sharp horses and, if I had to guess, I'd give Pinatubo (Ire) a big chance. And the best value stallion in Europe? I would say Arizona (Ire). He's a son of No Nay Never and, at only five thousand, I think he's good value. I have a nice filly by him. She goes very well. What's the one horse you wish you'd bought in 2023? It was a filly foal by Blue Point (Ire) at Goffs. I was the underbidder but I wish I bought her. Biggest regret? I don't have any regrets. I feel very lucky about where I am now and the hard work that me and my team is doing is paying off. Hopefully we'll keep the results going in 2024. Biggest influence on your career? I have to say my Dad. He was a jockey and a trainer and I always wanted to be like him. The post In The Hot Seat: Diego Dias appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Michael Guerin Two horses who each had excuses not to win the prelude race should dominate the $25,000 Cabins2U Marlborough Cup today. The second day of the two-day meeting has a logical form line leading through the almost indentical meeting on the grass on Friday. On that occasion Double Time beat Mossdale Ben in the Prelude even though both had few favours. Double Time sat parked for half the race and yet was still too strong, no small performance in this grade, but his biggest challenger Mossdale Ben undid himself by pacing roughly when pulled out to challenge in the home straight. So you could say both runs had huge merit and it is hard to go past the pair when they step up to the 2850m today. One key difference is Double Time couldn’t be re-handicapped for his win so stays on the front line whereas Mossdale Ben remains on the 30m mark. “I was thrilled with how our guy toughed it out on Friday,” says driver John Dunn. “It is not easy sitting parked to win these races and with staying on the same handicap he can win again. “The extra distance won’t bother him and hopefully we can step a little better and get the front as that would be a huge help.” Double Time raced some of our best three-year-olds last season and it took Alta Meteor to beat him in the Nelson Cup last Sunday so it would seem only Mossdale Ben or circuit newcomer Get Up N Dance could beat him today if he races up to the same level. Mossdale Ben is obviously the class horse of the field, having finished fifth and relegated to sixth in the New Zealand Cup and fourth in the NZ Free-For-All so if he can get the right tow into the race he is the obvious danger. The Trotter’s Cup today is shorn of last weekend’s double winner at Nelson in Sundees Sister, who Dunn says is on a transporter to Auckland this week. “She will go to the mare’s race at Cambridge on Monday week and then stay in Auckland for a while and we might even see if there is a race for her Harness Million night (Feb 16) at Alexandra Park.” Sticking with the theme that first day form will hold true today makes Muscle Bank the clear top chance in the $25,000 Trotter’s Cup as she was a brilliant winner on Friday, half her six career victories have come on grass and she was already backed in from $2.50 to $2.20 last night. View the full article

Selections for Marlborough Head to www.tab.co.nz to place your bet! Race Matt Cross Commentator Race 1 11.47am 6 Diedre Franco 12 Kowhai Summit 8 Signal Hill 4 Bevron Race 2 12.12pm 1 Melody Arden 12 Fredastaire 3 Rockcent 2 Carrera Kahu Race 3 12.37pm 12 Alta Showgirl 1 Miley Ace 3 Honest Lies 11 Chal Vee Power Race 4 1.02pm 13 Sarasota Sunset 14 White Star Orlando 9 Judine 7 Vincent Vega Race 5 1.27pm 6 Eyre I Will 3 Our Pegasus Pearl 4 Bennie And The Jets 2 Ali Lindenny Race 6 2.02pm 7 Quicksmart 1 Watch That Man 10 Midfrew Lucre 5 On Report Race 7 2.37pm 10 Soviet Star 3 He’s A Jackalack 11 Fourth Amendment 2 Style Council Race 8 3.12pm 11 Muscle Bank 5 Boyz Invasion 4 Zsa Zoe 8 Cormoran Strike Race 9 3.49pm 1 Acento 8 Tokyo Rose 4 Jaccka Opa 5 Superstar Legend Race 10 4.23pm 12 Mossdale Ben 10 Get Up N Dance 9 Homebush Lad 3 Double Time Race 11 4.48pm 12 Millwood Indie 10 Divine Angel 8 More Gooda 1 Arden’s Pursuit Race 12 5.13pm 6 MM Sunshine 10 Randel Huston P 7 Bella Lindenny 9 Son Of Patrick View the full article

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When Michelangelo sculpted David, you'd imagine he took the time to stand back, blow the dust off of his brow and marvel at his masterpiece, wouldn't you? Like David, Tally-Ho Stud has taken years of hard chiseling but you must be living in Lalaland if you think Tony O'Callaghan is a man for slowing down and taking in all that has been achieved. If there's one thing O'Callaghan hates more than arrogance it's idleness. With 200 mares on the farm, considerably more yearlings and foals coming through the system, a sizable breeze-up consignment and, of course, the bread and butter that are the stallions to tend to, there isn't a whole pile of time left over in a day for slacking. But what drives a man, who has an uncanny knack of avoiding questions he doesn't want to answer–including those about his age–to attack each morning the same as his sons Roger, 43, and Henry, 41? “I like action,” he says, unapologetically. “I do. They say there are two chairs you should never sit in; the electric chair and the armchair. They're not putting me into a bin any time soon! Why do some people live to do nothing? I can never understand it.” The O'Callaghans live for the game. When Kodiac, the horse Roger describes as being “the man who paid for the place” strides out of his box, the lads wear a smile that neither sex nor drugs could supply. Tony O'Callaghan: “When the bad year comes, suck it up and move on.” | Tattersalls Apparently “there's a queue of breeders” wanting to use Kodiac's Group 1-winning son Good Guess, who is new to the roster for 2024, but it wasn't always like this. Before Kodiac, Mehmas, Cotai Glory, Inns Of Court, Persian Force, Starman and now Good Guess, there were tougher times at Tally-Ho. Blues Traveller and Mac's Imp are some of the earliest hard luck stories. Both stallions met a premature end just as their stock were starting to get going. Danetime, too, was on the cusp of becoming a proper stallion when he died whilst covering on Southern Hemisphere time in Australia. Red Clubs and more recently Society Rock are others who never got a fair crack. “Danetime was when things started to happen for us,” Tony explains. “Then we got a list of them. Society Rock was doing well when he died and Sir Prancelot did okay as well, but Kodiac was the one who really took off.” He added, “Danetime might have done the same thing, you know. He was only nine when he died. He had the winner of the Prix Morny two years running—Myboycharlie and then Bushranger. That was a shock when he died.” So you could say it has been a triumph of perseverance? “Oh we've kept at it. We've never changed direction. When the bad year comes, suck it up and move on.” For many people in this industry, 2023 will go down as a bad year. The smaller breeder, who has been a huge part of the success story here, struggled on the whole. But if it's sympathy you're after at the O'Callaghan family's kitchen table, or as Tony's wife Anne describes it, “the engine room,” you've come to the wrong place. “It's up to you as a breeder to correct things and not go around blaming everyone bar yourself,” Tony says. “Some people will switch off and become disillusioned. I never get disillusioned no matter how bad the sales are. I never come home disillusioned. I come home blaming myself.” There may be a lack of sympathy on offer but there's no shortage of encouragement. The business model is simple; try to make everyone–big or small–a winner. Henry explains, “We're in this for the long haul and we don't take shortcuts. We try to treat people right and, if we both win, that's how you really succeed. There can be repeat business if that happens.” It is an honourable way of conducting business. And it is one of the reasons why Ger Lyons named Tony The Gent after the man himself. A Whatsapp message to the trainer confirmed as much. “He was, because in the dictionary beside the word gentleman, you see a picture of Tony O'C,” comes the reply from Lyons, swiftly followed by, “lovely family that.” There can be a price to be paid when only dealing in facts, though. Some will confuse the no-nonsense approach to business as being cold but the reality is the complete opposite. It was this scribe's great pleasure to kill more than a few hours with Roger in Cincinnati Airport during a layover on the way home from the Breeders' Cup a couple of years back. When a young couple across the bar endured a nightmare episode when both of their cards declined, it was Roger who thought nothing of jumping into action to settle the bill of the two people he'd never set eyes on before in order to prevent further blushes. 'That's my good deed done for the year,' he chirped, before sitting back down at the table. A chip off the old block. The similarities between Roger and his old man was clear to be seen at the Tattersalls Ireland September Yearling Sale last year as well. Less than 48 hours after Tally-Ho and Archie St George turned a $550,000 Into Mischief colt foal purchase into a $1.8 million yearling, O'Callaghan was back to the grindstone. A simple, 'well done in America, Roger,' was met with a, 'now on to the next one,' in that inimitable droll tone. Insatiable. Tony and Anne O'Callaghan | Tattersalls Anne comments on what drives her boys, “We're the lucky ones. We're the ones who have something to achieve and to look forward to every day. Imagine grinding your way to work behind the wheel after having dropped your kids to creche. You're having your cup of coffee, or maybe a cigarette, and listening to the droning bad news on the radio. We get out of bed, roll down the hill, step out into the yard, and bingo. Light on. Let's get at it.” Henry concurs and provides his own insight into the motivation behind this winner-producing machine, when saying, “You have a chance of a bit of magic. That's the great thing about this business. When you're involved with a good horse, there's no better feeling.” The hope is that Good Guess, who claimed the notable scalp of 2,000 Guineas winner Chaldean when storming to Prix Jean Prat glory at Deauville last summer, can be the latest good horse that the O'Callaghans will be associated with. The horse had been on Tally-Ho's radar ever since Cheveley Park Stud flagged that they had a good Kodiac at the Tattersalls October Book 1 Yearling Sale in 20201. They were right. Good Guess went on to make 420,000gns to Sebastien Desmontils and the O'Callaghans have been tracking his progression ever since. In fact, so sure they were that Good Guess would be a good fit at Tally-Ho, a deal was done not long after he had crossed the line in front in that Group 1. “Sure he'd be whipped from underneath you,” says Tony, explaining why there wasn't even time to hop on a plane to get the deal done. Instead, it was trashed out on the phone. “These things are done quickly.” It has been well-reported that, in order to secure Good Guess, a lot of money needed to change hands. “You've got to try and win the lottery. Pay your money, take your chance,” is how Roger sums up the transaction. Henry adds, “It's grand when you're right. There's never a bad time to buy a good horse but then there's never a good time to buy a bad horse. If you can buy a good horse, what you pay for it ultimately doesn't matter. The economics of this game, it's unique, isn't it?” He adds, “Given how much stallions are costing at the moment, you need them to work in order for the whole thing to make economic sense. It's a big test of how bad you want a horse if you are prepared to send it a clatter of your own mares.” Good Guess, along with the rest of the stallion roster at Tally-Ho, won't be lacking in that department. Tony explains, “When the stallions do well, it's huge. But, when the stallions do bad, it's an absolute nightmare. When they don't click, you suffer. There's a queue up for Good Guess but we'll support him as well. It's very simple; back your own. “The way it works is, you look after everyone else first. Whenever we can get a slot for him, we'll send him a mare. We'll send him between 30 and 50 of our own mares but we won't know how many until the end of May. “ On what makes Good Guess an attractive stallion proposition, he adds, “Sure you could see below, his action and his physique. The bone structure is there and he has a nice big eye and a nice head. He floats around the yard there. Those are his strong points. Everyone who has come to see him, they all love him.” Could he be the heir to the throne? “Never,” says Tony, half-insulted. “I don't think we'll ever get an heir to that horse. We'd love one. But I don't think we'll ever find another Kodiac.” And with that, the master of Tally-Ho leaves the table to tend to more pressing duties in the yard. He's not one for sitting, you know. But was he always like that? “I'll never forget I was covering a mare with Dad,” Roger recalls. “He was holding the mare and I had Danetime. When Danetime went to get up on the mare, she reared. Dad had the lead rope wrapped around his thumb and the thumb went with the lead rope. Severed it. Straight off. “I'll never forget it. And then, when he went into the hospital, all he was telling me was, 'I'm really sorry.' I was saying, 'what are you sorry for?' “Anyway, he did a night in hospital but was back in the yard the following morning. He had a big bandage on his hand out cleaning water troughs that day. But what happened next? Didn't the f**king bucket fall over and of course he went to grab it. Bang. It bounced off the thumb. “Oh Jesus, I'll never forget it. The poor f**ker nearly died with the pain. But as soon as he could get back going, he was out in that yard. You can count the number of days on one hand that Dad has taken off work in his life. Seriously. He just loves it.” And that, ladies and gentleman, is the difference. The treasure that is KODIAC, holding court at @HoStud He is 23 this year. #IrishStallionTrail @BrianSheerin91 pic.twitter.com/EJLi8FJu3d — TDN (@theTDN) January 12, 2024 Tony O'Callaghan on……. Caught U Looking I'd been watching her going around the back ring at the Goffs Autumn Yearling Sale and was wondering whether or not I should bid for her. Next thing, she went into the ring and Peter Nolan bought her for Noel Meade. I said I'd take her. They told me the most I could have was a half, so I took half. She's a nice filly. I'm hoping she will go on this season but we'll see, won't we? I'm hoping she'll stay a mile plus. We could have sold her 10 times over but we'll roll the dice. I'd be hoping she can stay a mile-and-a-half. That's what I'd like. She has plenty of size and scope. It would be nice to have a runner in the Oaks. Working the sales There are people giving out about the industry but, when they go to the sales, they are fiddling around and they wouldn't do any homework. A lot of the trainers are like that. Willie Mullins started with eight or nine horses. Gordon Elliott started with one or two. When you go to the sales, do you go to zone in or you go to be sociable for the day? You can only do one or the other. You can't do both. If you want to buy something, you have to pay attention, not be in and out of the bar. I've nothing against that but it's gone a bit like that. The sales are competitive. We're there to work. National Hunt We always had National Hunt horses going back years ago. I quite like National Hunt horses. As the fella says, what do you do in January? I always felt the first day of Spring was Thyestes Day. Long ago, when we were young, Thyestes Day marked the start of Spring. Polarisation It is gone polarised but you can always sell a nice horse. It's always been the model first for me. If you can get the sire as well, then you are away. The model will always get you out of trouble, though. The post An Endless Pursuit Of ‘A Bit Of Magic’ For The O’Callaghans At Tally-Ho Stud appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Smart juvenile Vandeek (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}), who races for KHK Racing, Ltd. is likely to make his 3-year-old debut in the G2 Sandy Lane S. in May, according to co-trainer Simon Crisford. A multiple Group 1 winner in 2023, the colt won the G1 Prix Morny and G1 Middle Park S. in August and September, respectively. “He's looking super, he's trotting and we'll probably start him off in the Sandy Lane at Haydock at the end of May,” Simon Crisford told ITV Racing. “One run before Royal Ascot. “Commonwealth, July Cups–those sort of races we've got up our sleeve. The idea of not starting off in the Pavilion [S., at Ascot] is we'd have to start training him a month earlier. Quite frankly, with the weather we've got at the moment, we're wrapping him up in big, thick blankets.” Besides his Group 1 exploits, the Simon and Ed Crisford-trained grey was a debut winner at Nottingham last July and added the G2 Richmond S. at second asking at the beginning of August prior to his Group 1 exploits. He is unbeaten in four starts to date. He added, “He was a little bit on the leg as a 2-year-old. He was tall and lanky and never really looked like a sprinter physically. But now he's beginning to take shape as a sprinter. His temperament is great and there's so much to love about him. “He's done exceptionally well over the winter and fingers crossed he's got a big season ahead.” The post Unbeaten Star Vandeek Could Return In Sandy Lane appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Disarm (c, 4, Gun Runner–Easy Tap, by Tapit), sidelined since finishing a closing second behind Arcangelo (Arrogate) in the GI Travers S. at Saratoga Aug. 26, has returned to training with Hall of Famer Steve Asmussen at the Fair Grounds. A respectable fourth at 27-1 in the GI Kentucky Derby, last term's GIII Matt Winn S. winner and GII Twinspires.com Louisiana Derby runner-up exited his second-place finish in the Travers with bone bruising, per David Fiske, longtime advisor to owner/breeder Ron Winchell. “He was walking visibly off after the Travers,” Fiske said. “Got him back to the barn and whipped out the X-ray machine. We were all standing there looking at the X-rays and everybody looked at one another and went, 'Do you see anything? I don't see anything.' So, that was a big relief that it wasn't anything more serious. We got him down to Lexington and he was diagnosed with some bone bruising.” He added, “We weren't gonna make any significant races at the end of the year, so we said, 'Let's just give him as much time off as he needs.'” Following approximately nine weeks of recommended downtime, a positron emission tomography (PET) scan revealed that Disarm still “had some spots that lit up on him” and he was given an additional 30 days off before returning to training. The 'TDN Rising Star' now has a pair of four-furlong breezes under his belt since returning to the worktab in New Orleans, stopping the clock in :53.80 (42/43) Jan. 8 and :50.80 (18/26) Jan. 18, respectively. “We gave him some extra time and now he's back,” Fiske said. “He looks great, travels great and has always been a great-looking horse. Hopefully, we can make some noise with him this year.” Disarm recorded four straight triple-digit Beyer Speed Figures last year, beginning with his aforementioned effort on the first Saturday in May. He earned a career-high 103 Beyer over a muddy surface in the Travers, his first career start racing with blinkers. The handsome chestnut has posted a record of 9-2-3-2 and career earnings of $1,000,200. While acknowledging that it's still very early days, Fiske said that this summer's GI Whitney S. at Saratoga, a race won by his leading sire in 2017, could be in play for the Winchell Thoroughbreds homebred. “Given the level at which he ran last year, if he can get back to that, then you'd expect to see him in some of the bigger or biggest races around,” Fiske said. “It would be kinda cool if we could get him cranked up for the Whitney, but that's a long way off. We're gonna need to get some more works. He's still pretty early stages.” One of nine 'Rising Stars' for Gun Runner, Disarm is a half-brother to Venezuelan champion stayer Tap Daddy (Scat Daddy), who was also a stakes winner and graded-stakes placed on these shores. Disarm's dam Easy Tap, a $300,000 FTKJUL yearling purchase, won one of five career starts. The Gun Runner over Tapit cross, two of the best to ever carry the maroon-and-white Winchell silks, is already off to a flying start via GI Cotillion S. heroine Society; MGSW and GI Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Sprint third Wicked Halo; GSW & GISP Red Route One; and GSW & GISP Il Miracolo. #DISARM 1/8 @fairgroundsnola 1st recorded work since Travers S. @Saratogaraces1 https://t.co/cxU56fDwj5 pic.twitter.com/LZ3pgrXTcs — DJFiske (@DJFiske) January 8, 2024 The post Travers Runner-Up Disarm Reloading for 2024 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Tom Sage, the executive director of the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission, will retire Mar. 12, the organization said in a statement which was first reported on Friday by the Lincoln Journal Star. As the executive director of the Nebraska Racing Commission since 2008, Sage added oversight of casino gambling after voters approved a petition to allow casinos at the state's horse racing tracks in November 2020. He oversaw a staff that began with a single member to now having over two dozen employees. Sage's career in horse racing began as a security officer in 1988 at Omaha's Ak-Sar-Ben Racetrack. He graduated in 1991 from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a B.S. in criminal justice and started as an investigator for the Nebraska Racing Commission in 1993. After graduating in 1995 from the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center, Sage became the commission's director of investigations in 2003. He was an instrumental board member for the Organization of Racing Investigators and currently is serving out his term as the chairman of the board of the Association of Racing Commissioners International. In the Lincoln Journal Star article, Nebraska commissioner Tony Fulton called Sage a “good man” who is hard-working and diligent, and took on the task of regulating casino gambling in the state with vigor. “This has been a very heavy lift, and he's done an admirable job,” Fulton said. The commission also voted Friday to make Casey Ricketts, its current director of compliance, the interim executive director. The post Tom Sage Executive Director Of The Nebraska Racing And Gaming Commission To Retire appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Sunday's top tips from the Post's racing teamView the full article

Talented apprentice jockey Celine Gaudrey picked up a winning double at Flemington on Saturday that featured plenty of connections with the New Zealand racing and breeding industry. Gaudrey was at her aggressive best as she lifted talented filly Sans Doute (Not A Single Doubt) to victory in an 1100m contest for trainer Mark Walker and her Te Akau Racing ownership syndicate and was back in the winners’ enclosure four races later aboard the Ben, Will and JD Hayes-prepared New Zealand-bred So Risque (NZ) (So You Think). The progressive six-year-old son of So You Think had returned to winning form at Caulfield back in November and had then produced two meritorious efforts for third before tackling the VRC Life Member Daniel Connell Trophy (1400m) on Saturday. Gaudrey had her charge nicely positioned just behind the speed in the early rush for positions before some shuffling saw her planted out three-wide with cover before moving into contention around the home bend. Gaudrey got to work at the 200m and So Risque responded to her urgings as he swamped He’s Our Bonneval (Siyouni) in the final few strides with pacemaker Helix (Flying Artie) holding out Bel Air (Written Tycoon) for third. Co-trainer Ben Hayes was delighted with the manner of the victory as So Risque had made his run in the middle of the track which was against the pattern of the day where most winners were closer to the fence. “Watching the race through the middle stages it looked like he was checked and nearly fell which meant he ended up three-wide,” Hayes said. “She (Gaudrey) got him into a nice rhythm though and gee he hit the line strong. “He won down the middle of the track which has not been happening today as they all have been against the rail so there is real merit to the win.” The Hayes team will now contemplate lifting their sights with the horse after initially being comfortable taking him through the grades. “We will see how he pulls up but that was a very good win and he beat some good horses,” he said. “We will see what the options are but we are enjoying taking him through the grades and squeezing that lemon, but if there is a stakes race that suits we will look at it. “We’re just enjoying the ride at the moment as he is in fantastic order.” Gaudrey explained what happened approaching the bend and how it played in her favour. “It was quite a messy race around the corner as he had bounced out well with the winkers on and was travelling nicely on the bridle when the pace just came out of the race,” she said. “He wanted to get charging but it worked in our favour being wide with cover as he got to have a proper crack at them.” So Risque is a son of Volksraad mare Risque Business (NZ) (Volksraad) and is the older half-brother to promising mare It’s Business Time (Turn Me Loose) who registered five consecutive victories before finishing runner-up in the Gr.3 Coupland’s Bakeries Mile (1600m) in November. He was a $100,000 yearling purchase by syndicator Rob Slade from Windsor Park’s 2019 Book 1 draft at Karaka and has now won seven wins from 24 starts. View the full article

Trainer Robbie Patterson has had his New Plymouth stable firing on all cylinders of late but even he couldn’t believe he would pick up the two feature events at Trentham on Saturday. Rider Craig Grylls, a close friend of Patterson, shared in the top drawer double as he guided statuesque gelding Puntura (NZ) (Vespa) to victory in the Gr.1 Harcourts Team Group Thorndon Mile (1600m) before combining with Mary Louise (NZ) (The Bold One) to take out the time honoured Gr.3 NZ Campus of Sport and Innovation Wellington Cup (3200m) with another peach of a ride. There was sensation early in the two-mile contest as race favourite Waisake (NZ) (Zed) dropped rider Matt Cameron after appearing to clip heels when racing in tight quarters towards the rear of the field. Cameron would later make his way unaided to the on-course ambulance and was reported to have suffered no significant injuries. Grylls missed all the drama as he settled Mary Louise just in front of the melee and slowly crept forward to sit three wide in midfield before asking the daughter of underrated Taranaki sire The Bold One (NZ) (Fastnet Rock) to move into contention approaching the home turn. Mary Louise quickly took over and under strong riding from Grylls held out the late challenges of Fierce Flight (Flying Artie) and Canheroc (NZ) (El Roca) to win by a length at the line and register career win number seven. Patterson appeared more than a little overwhelmed as he accepted congratulations after the contest. “I’m very emotional to win this as it means a lot to me and is very special.” Patterson said. “This is a very iconic race and while we in the Taranaki may not always have the best-bred horses, we really punch above our weight and I’m very proud of that. “She (Mary Louise) over-raced a bit early on as she is used to going a bit quicker, but then she found her rhythm. “She was three, four and even five wide at times so it was a pretty good effort although she stays longer than a mother-in-law. “How do you beat this (winning a Group One as well as the Cup), well you can’t and I’m so proud.” Grylls was wearing a smile a mile wide as he explained how the race panned out for him and how it wasn’t the first time he had achieved a victory in both races on the same day.. “Ten years ago, I won both races on the same day with A Touch Of Ruby (Pins) (Thorndon Mile) and Graphic (NZ) (Volksraad) (Wellington Cup) which was back in 2014,” he said. “This is the best and to do it for Robbie and Eddie Bourke (part-owner) is outstanding as they are such great people. “The last few starts she had tailed off and I couldn’t get her to go whereas today she actually pulled for the first half of the race and I had a job to settle her. “I was on the outer and had cover and when I gave her a click up she came up underneath me and I knew I was travelling pretty sweet.” Racing in the colours of co-breeder and part-owner Eddie Bourke, Mary Louise has now won seven of her 15 starts and $326,375 in prizemoney. The race also marked the final call for iconic commentator Tony Lee who is hanging up the binoculars after a storied and well respected fourty-year career. View the full article

Promising filly Aberlour (NZ) (Mongolian Falcon) added plenty of value to a future breeding career when she won a tooth and nail battle against the heavily supported Hakadecree (NZ) (War Decree) to capture the Listed Liquorland Gore Guineas (1335m). The daughter of former Gr.2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m) winner Mongolian Falcon (AUS) had won stylishly in maiden company on her home track on New Year’s Day for Riverton trainer Kelvin Tyler, with many prepared to say she would take the jump to stakes company in the feature event at Gore in her stride as they installed her a $3.20 favourite. That task wasn’t made easy by the well supported Illicit Dreams (NZ) (Vancouver) ($4.70) who niggled away on her inner as the pair set up a strong pace at the head of affairs throughout. Under northern rider Jasmine Fawcett, Aberlour shook off all challenges bar Hakadecree ($3.70) who loomed on her outer rounding the home bend and at one point put his head in front and looked to be going the better of the two. Fawcett asked for one final effort with the filly responding to take back the lead and go to the winning post a head clear of Hakadecree with Epee Beel (Epaulette) making up good ground to finish third. Tyler wasn’t on hand to witness the victory as he was at Trentham saddling up his Gr.3 Wellington Cup (3200m) hope Prince Alby (NZ) (Sacred Falls) but managed to take in the race on television. “I managed to duck into the Farrier’s room to watch the race and was having a pretty decent shout at the TV,” Tyler said. “She is a really good quality filly and she is plenty tough. “I’ve been up here (at Trentham) lately but the camp at home had been happy with her so we thought she would be a chance today. “She is from a good family including Tobilicious (NZ) (Natural Destiny) and she has the same traits as him as she is talented and very genuine.” Tyler will now look at several of the upcoming three-year-old races on the southern circuit for his charge. “We will most likely miss Wingatui (Listed Dunedin Guineas, 1500m) and go to Invercargill (Listed Southland Guineas, 1600m). “After that there is a good race at Dunedin (Listed NZB Airfreight Stakes, 1400m) and we may look to step her up over further later in the autumn. “I guess the only downside is that we lost her dam when she was foaling last year, but we have her and a lovely Satono Aladdin (JPN) filly to carry on the family so it’s not all bad news.” Aberlour is out of the Postponed mare Sophie Louise (NZ) (Postponed) who is the dam of Tobilicious, a five race winner who ran second in the 2020 Gr.2 Coupland’s Bakeries Mile (1600m) before going on to finish fourth in the Gr.1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) in 2021. View the full article

by Jonny Turner It didn’t look great early, but the end result was perfect as Sam Thornley won his 100th race in the sulky in New Zealand at Marlborough on Friday. Muscle Bank overcame a slow beginning when producing an outstanding performance to win for Thornley and trainer Tom Bamford. Thornley was not only thrilled to bring up his milestone victory, he was impressed with his trotter’s big effort to score. “It was a big run because she missed away and she was so far from them.” “When they went so hard early I was a long way off the leaders.” “But they came back to us a bit and when I hooked her out she sprinted up really good.” “It was a great win.” Thornley’s 100-win breakthrough comes at a defining time in his career. Just a matter of days prior, the reinsman finished second in the 2023 Junior Driver’s Premiership behind Sarah O’Reilly. O’Reilly is now out of the junior ranks, leaving Thornley as much chance as anyone to chase down the 2024 title. Thornley’s ton has also came shortly after his move to work for the Ken Barron stable. With a 1000-race winning driver in Barron and a multiple premiership winner and 2000-race winning driver in Blair Orange to work with, Thornley is thrilled with where his career is at. “It is really great to get the 100 wins.” “Things are going really well for me at the moment, working with Ken Barron and Blair Orange.” “They are great to work with and I’m learning a lot.” The junior premiership is a goal for Thornley in 2024, as is chasing down 50 wins after producing 47 victories in 2023. “I’ll be doing my best to get as many wins as I can, but it would be good if I could get 50 this year.” “I will be doing a bit of travelling and hoping to build up my drives and do a few trips.” Thornley could edge further towards his 50-win target when he reunites Muscle Bank at Marlborough on Sunday. The mare looks a big chance of adding to the reinsman’s 100 wins in the Marlborough Trotters Cup. As well as his 100 wins in New Zealand, Thornley has a further three to his name in Australia. View the full article

Celine Gaudray returns to the mounting at Flemington Racecourse. (Photo by Brett Holburt/Racing Photos) Te Akau Racing continue to make their presence felt in Australia since opening a Cranbourne stable in the spring and four-year-old mare Sans Doute made it back-to-back wins at Flemington when a game winner. Perfectly ridden by apprentice Celine Gaudray, Sans Doute sat closer to the sedate speed than anticipated and followed the rail home for a narrow victory over A Little Deep. Trainer Mark Walker has now had nine wins in Victoria this season and sits sixth on the premiership by prizemoney, with stable stars Imperatriz and Skew Wiff contributing much of the more than A$4million in stakes the stable has earned. Placed in the Group 3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m) in New Zealand at three, Sans Doute is relishing her time at the Cranbourne stable according to Walker’s Assistant Trainer Ben Gleeson. “Working with Mark and the trust he shows in myself to try and place these horses, it’s a team effort, and to see the way she has progressed since she got here – in the early days she had a poor run and now she has found form – it’s very satisfying,” Gleeson said. “I had a phone call with Mark earlier, saying usually you don’t really want to be drawn down on the rail but with the form that Celine’s in we will just trust her. Sure enough the first few straight races were won on the rail, so we were sitting pretty. “We were just hoping that the gaps would come and they certainly did.” Gleeson said the daughter of Not A Single Doubt enjoyed having her races spaced and a black-type target was high on the agenda. “She has had a pretty long preparation now but we will see how she pulls up. Whether a week at the water-walker or a couple of weeks in the paddock might do her wonders,” Gleeson said. “We would like to try and find some more black-type with her, potentially in Adelaide.” More horse racing news View the full article

Aberlour and Jasmine Fawcett stride away with the Listed Gore Guineas (1335m) on Saturday. Photo: Monica Toretto Promising filly Aberlour added plenty of value to a future breeding career when she won a tooth and nail battle against the heavily supported Hakadecree to capture the Listed Gore Guineas (1335m). The daughter of former Group 2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m) winner Mongolian Falcon had won stylishly in maiden company on her home track on New Year’s Day for Riverton trainer Kelvin Tyler, with many prepared to say she would take the jump to stakes company in the feature event at Gore in her stride as they installed her a +220 favourite with top horse racing bookmakers. That task wasn’t made easy by the well supported Illicit Dreams (+370) who niggled away on her inner as the pair set up a strong pace at the head of affairs throughout. Under northern rider Jasmine Fawcett, Aberlour shook off all challenges bar Hakadecree (+270) who loomed on her outer rounding the home bend and at one point put his head in front and looked to be going the better of the two. Fawcett asked for one final effort with the filly responding to take back the lead and go to the winning post a head clear of Hakadecree with Epee Beel making up good ground to finish third. Tyler wasn’t on hand to witness the victory as he was at Trentham saddling up his Group 3 Wellington Cup (3200m) hope Prince Alby but managed to take in the race on television. “I managed to duck into the Farrier’s room to watch the race and was having a pretty decent shout at the TV,” Tyler said. “She is a really good quality filly and she is plenty tough. “I’ve been up here (at Trentham) lately but the camp at home had been happy with her so we thought she would be a chance today. “She is from a good family including Tobilicious and she has the same traits as him as she is talented and very genuine.” Tyler will now look at several of the upcoming three-year-old races on the southern circuit for his charge. “We will most likely miss Wingatui (Listed Dunedin Guineas, 1500m) and go to Invercargill (Listed Southland Guineas, 1600m). “After that there is a good race at Dunedin (Listed NZB Airfreight Stakes, 1400m) and we may look to step her up over further later in the autumn. “I guess the only downside is that we lost her dam when she was foaling last year, but we have her and a lovely Satono Aladdin filly to carry on the family so it’s not all bad news.” More horse racing news View the full article

With Hong Kong’s champ sidelined, superstar Kiwi James McDonald hopes last year’s Derby hero can break through at Group One level in Sunday’s Stewards’ Cup (1,600m)View the full article

Craig Grylls completes a Group-double with Robbie Patterson aboard Mary Louise in the Group 3 Wellington Cup (3200m) Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North) Trainer Robbie Patterson has had his New Plymouth stable firing on all cylinders of late but even he couldn’t believe he would pick up the two feature events at Trentham on Saturday. Rider Craig Grylls, a close friend of Patterson, shared in the top drawer double as he guided statuesque gelding Puntura to victory in the Group 1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) before combining with Mary Louise to take out the time honoured Group 3 Wellington Cup (3200m) with another peach of a ride. There was sensation early in the two-mile contest as race favourite Waisake dropped rider Matt Cameron after appearing to clip heels when racing in tight quarters towards the rear of the field. Cameron would later make his way unaided to the on-course ambulance and was reported to have suffered no significant injuries. Grylls missed all the drama as he settled Mary Louise just in front of the melee and slowly crept forward to sit three wide in midfield before asking the daughter of underrated Taranaki sire The Bold One to move into contention approaching the home turn. Mary Louise quickly took over and under strong riding from Grylls held out the late challenges of Fierce Flight and Canheroc to win by a length at the line and register career win number seven. 2024 Group 3 Wellington Cup Replay – Mary Louise Patterson appeared more than a little overwhelmed as he accepted congratulations after the contest. “I’m very emotional to win this as it means a lot to me and is very special.” Patterson said. “This is a very iconic race and while we in the Taranaki may not always have the best bred horses, we really punch above our weight and I’m very proud of that. “She (Mary Louise) over-raced a bit early on as she is used to going a bit quicker, but then she found her rhythm. “She was three, four and even five wide at times so it was a pretty good effort although she stays longer than a mother-in-law. “How do you beat this (winning a Group One as well as the Cup), well you can’t and I’m so proud.” Grylls was wearing a smile a mile wide as he explained how the race panned out for him and how it wasn’t the first time he had achieved a victory in both races on the same day. “Ten years ago, I won both races on the same day with A Touch Of Ruby (Thorndon Mile) and Graphic (Wellington Cup) which was back in 2014,” he said. “This is the best and to do it for Robbie and Eddie Bourke (part-owner) is outstanding as they are such great people. “The last few starts she had tailed off and I couldn’t get her to go whereas today she actually pulled for the first half of the race and I had a job to settle her. “I was on the outer and had cover and when I gave her a click up she came up underneath me and I knew I was travelling pretty sweet.” Racing in the colours of co-breeder and part-owner Eddie Bourke, Mary Louise has now won seven of her 15 starts and $326,375 in prizemoney. The race also marked the final call for iconic commentator Tony Lee who is hanging up the binoculars after a storied and well respected forty-year career. More horse racing news View the full article

Te Akau Racing continue to make their presence felt in Australia since opening a Cranbourne stable in the spring and four-year-old mare Sans Doute made it back-to-back wins at Flemington when a game winner of the Black Caviar Lightning Race Day, 17 February (1100m). Perfectly ridden by apprentice Celine Gaudray, Sans Doute sat closer to the sedate speed than anticipated and followed the rail home for a narrow victory over A Little Deep. Trainer Mark Walker has now had nine wins in Victoria this season and sits sixth on the premiership by prizemoney, with stable stars Imperatriz and Skew Wiff contributing much of the more than A$4million in stakes the stable has earned. Placed in the Gr.3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m) in New Zealand at three, Sans Doute is relishing her time at the Cranbourne stable according to Walker’s Assistant Trainer Ben Gleeson. “Working with Mark and the trust he shows in myself to try and place these horses, it’s a team effort, and to see the way she has progressed since she got here – in the early days she had a poor run and now she has found form – it’s very satisfying,” Gleeson said. “I had a phone call with Mark earlier, saying usually you don’t really want to be drawn down on the rail but with the form that Celine’s in we will just trust her. Sure enough the first few straight races were won on the rail, so we were sitting pretty. “We were just hoping that the gaps would come and they certainly did.” Gleeson said the daughter of Not A Single Doubt enjoyed having her races spaced and a black-type target was high on the agenda. “She has had a pretty long preparation now but we will see how she pulls up. Whether a week at the water-walker or a couple of weeks in the paddock might do her wonders,” Gleeson said. “We would like to try and find some more black-type with her, potentially in Adelaide.” Sans Doute was purchased by David Ellis for $300,000 at the 2021 Australian Easter Yearling Sale, from the draft of Arrowfield Stud, and owned by Te Akau In No Doubt Racing Partnership (Mgr: Karyn Fenton-Ellis MNZM). Meanwhile stable star Imperatriz has taken another step to her racetrack return, stepping out for a gallop between races at Cranbourne on Friday night. The superstar mare won three Group Ones in succession last spring and is looking to repeat the effort this campaign, starting with the Gr.1 Lightning Stakes (1000m) in late February. Group One winning stablemate Skew Wiff also stepped out at Cranbourne, with both horses working separately over 1000m. “A trip away from home, it stimulates horses when you take them away from their own environment,” Gleeson said. “I’m sure people saw in the pre-parade ring they were both a bit fresh and bouncy, so just to switch them on like that is a great experience.” On first impressions, Gleeson said both gallopers did exactly what he wanted. “Both were spot-on, they both looked to corner well, change their lead legs and do everything right,” he said. “Once they came back in they wouldn’t have blown for too long, so just shows their fitness is progressing the right way. “We couldn’t be happier with that piece of work from both of them. “Imperatriz will go to the Lightning first-up on the February 17, so not long now,” he said. “She might have another track gallop at Sandown or somewhere, and then we’ll take her for an official trial here at Cranbourne on February 5. Gleeson is also delighted with the progression of Skew Wiff, who will likely stay in Victoria for the autumn. “She’s absolutely flying. We’re just as happy with her as we are with Imperatriz,” he said. “We’re tossing up heading to the Oakleigh Plate (Gr.1, 1100m), so she’ll probably head there, and then the Newmarket (Gr.1, 1200m) is an option for her after that.” View the full article

A first-time winner at Group Three and Group Two level in his previous two starts, Puntura (NZ) (Vespa) took his career-best campaign to even greater heights in Saturday’s Gr.1 Harcourts Thorndon Mile (1600m) at Trentham. Even before the start of this breakthtaking breakthrough season, the Taranaki gelding had been a grand performer for his owner-breeders Carole and John Lynskey. He had won eight of his 28 starts, including three in Queensland, and had banked more than $230,000 in stakes. But it turns out that he was just getting started. Puntura’s incredible summer kicked off with a dominant front-running performance in the $250,000 Gr.3 Coupland’s Bakeries Mile (1600m) at Riccarton on November 15. A month later he stepped down to 1400m, switched to weight-for-age and dropped out to third-last during the running of the Gr.2 Manawatu Challenge Stakes at Trentham, but he unleashed a powerful finish to prevail again. Saturday brought another new challenge, stepping up to the elite level and taking on the likes of last-start Gr.1 Zabeel Classic (2000m) winner Campionessa (NZ) (Contributer), Gr.2 Rich Hill Mile (1600m) hero Habana (Zoustar) and Sydney Group Two performer Skyman (Mukhadram), But for the third time in a row, the Robbie Patterson-trained Puntura raised his game to a whole new level and continued his dream run. Puntura’s winning connections in Robbie Patterson, Craig Grylls and Carole & John Lynskey. Photo: Race Images This time, regular rider Craig Grylls took up a position in second, sitting on the outside of the pace-making El Vencedor (NZ) (Shocking). Puntura was travelling effortlessly coming up to the home turn, and Grylls decided not to hold the big six-year-old back. He let Puntura roll forward and take command, angling out into the better ground in the outside half of the home straight. El Vencedor fought back bravely towards the inside through the final 400m, with longshot South Island raider Lady Telena (Vespa) launching a remarkable late burst into third, but Puntura could not be caught. He maintained his advantage with powerful strides through the final 100m, winning the $400,000 feature by a length and a quarter. “This is just the best,” Grylls said. “Over the last couple of years I’ve struck up a really good partnership with Robbie Patterson on the track, and we’re awesome mates off it as well. That was just an outstanding result. “Right from the jump, he was hard on the bridle. Coming up to the turn, I thought I should try to get out wide before everyone else did. He had a really good kick in the straight, and I knew from about 150m out that it was going to take something pretty good to pass him. “He’s built to this. He’s been good in Australia, and then he’s come back and won a Group Three, a Group Two and now a Group One. “He’s a gentle giant. He’s a big and strong horse, but an absolute gentleman to ride.” Puntura headed a landmark result for Mapperley Stud stallion Vespa (NZ) (Elusive City), who was credited with his first Group One winner and is also the sire of the third-placed Lady Telena. From 33 starts, Puntura has now recorded 11 wins and four placings, earning in excess of $705,000 for the Lynskeys. “This is massive,” said Patterson, whose other runner in Saturday’s Thorndon Mile field was the fourth-placed One Bold Cat (NZ) (The Bold Cat). “The Lynskeys put a lot into racing, and this is a very good horse. People might have doubted him early on, but now he’s won a Group Three, a Group Two and a Group One in succession. He’s a beautiful animal and he deserves it. He’s a big, strong horse, a dominant horse, and he dominated that race today. “Winning the Thorndon Mile is special. It’s something you dream about as a kid. It means a lot.” View the full article

Roger James and Robert Wellwood turned their Wellington Cup Carnival fortunes around with an impressive victory by Sudbina (NZ) (Almanzor) in the Gr.3 New Zealand Bloodstock Desert Gold Stakes (1600m) at Trentham on Saturday. Sudbina’s Desert Gold heroics came seven days after a frustrating afternoon of near-misses for the Cambridge trainers on the opening day of the carnival last weekend. They saddled Zabmanzor (NZ) (Almanzor) for a second placing in the Gr.1 Levin Classic (1600m), a long head behind Quintessa (NZ) (Shamus Award), while stablemate Apostrophe (NZ) (Tavistock) was beaten by a head by Churchillian (Churchill) in the Gr.3 Anniversary Handicap (1600m). “After having to settle for a couple of close seconds in Group One and Group Three races last week, it’s really nice to get a good win today,” Wellwood said. James and Wellwood headed south on Saturday with high hopes for Sudbina. The talented daughter of Almanzor had finished a commendable sixth in a star-studded Gr.2 Soliloquy Stakes (1400m) and fourth in the Gr.3 Bonecrusher Stakes (1400m), then warmed up for the Desert Gold with a stylish come-from-behind victory at Hastings on January 6. Being stuck with gate 12 in Wednesday morning’s barrier draw may have slightly dented the confidence of Sudbina’s connections, but in the end it proved to be no obstacle in the $120,000 three-year-old fillies’ feature. Rider Kozzi Asano eased Sudbina back to last behind a strong early speed set by Bella Corno (NZ) (Charm Spirit). Asano was happy to bide his time at the tail of the field until around the 600m mark, when he pushed the button and swooped forward out wide. All eyes were drawn to the outside of the track at the top of the Trentham straight, where Sudbina and the favourite Grail Seeker (NZ) (Iffraaj) accelerated side by side and burst to the front together. They left the rest of the field behind and bounded clear, with Sudbina edging ahead of Grail Seeker to score by three-quarters of a length. The Entertainer (NZ) (Staphanos) finished third, almost four lengths behind the first pair. “She had an electric turn of foot,” Asano said. “I thought I might have gone too early. “I just tried to keep her in her rhythm for most of the race today, and then off she went. Once she got a clear run, she was away. “The way she accelerated at the end of the race today, I’d say that more distance would be no problem for her.” Sudbina has now had seven starts for three wins and a placing, earning $114,765 in stakes for owner-breeders Frantic Bloodstock and Haunui Bloodstock. “We were disappointed when the draws came out for this race earlier in the week, but the way the track has worked out and the way this race ended up being run, it probably worked in our favour a little bit,” Wellwood said. “What she did there was very nice. “We’ve been scratching our heads a little bit in terms of what distance might suit her best. We were just hoping she’d get the mile in this race, but off today’s performance, perhaps she might go even further. We’ll talk to her connections and work out a plan from here.” Sudbina is a half-sister to Fix (NZ) (Iffraaj), who was New Zealand Bloodstock Filly of the Year in the 2012-13 season and won eight races including the Gr.2 Eight Carat Classic (1600m), Gr.2 Royal Stakes (2000m) and Gr.2 Sir Tristram Fillies’ Classic (2000m). She also placed in the Gr.1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) and Gr.1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m). Saturday’s Desert Gold Stakes was the seventh leg of this season’s edition of the New Zealand Bloodstock Filly of the Year Series. Sudbina has now joined the table with her first 6 points of the series, moving into equal sixth place alongside Quintessa. Molly Bloom (NZ) (Ace High) heads the table with 20 points, with Impendabelle (Impending) second on 15 and Still Bangon third with 10. The remaining four legs of the series are all run over longer distances, starting with the Gr.2 David & Karyn Ellis Fillies’ Classic (2000m) at Te Rapa on February 10. View the full article

The Mike Moroney-trained Bermadez (NZ) (Tavistock) was back in the winner’s circle for the first time since May 2022 with a hard-fought victory in the Howden Australian Guineas Day, 2 March (1600m) at Flemington on Saturday. The seven-year-old son of Tavistock loves the vast spaces of Flemington and needed every inch as he collared Beehunter (Toronado) and Suparazi (Super One) in the shadows of the post with the trio more than five lengths clear of their rivals in a small field. Bermadez has been in good form this campaign, finishing runner-up in all three starts prior to Saturday’s victory. Punters sent the gelding out a $2.05 favourite on the strength of his second placing in the A$300,000 Coastal Classic (1700m) where he chased home the in-form Holymanz (NZ) (Almanzor). Despite Suparazi and Beehunter stealing a march on Bermadez, Moroney said he was confident the consistent galloper would reel in his rivals. “I thought when he got to the outside he would pick them up because he has done that before where he arrives late,” Moroney said. “He has never won by very big margins and I was quietly confident he still had a chance of picking them up. “I’d like to have a go at 2000m with him now. We had a go (at the distance) in the Ballarat Cup but it was very wet and it was at the end of a long preparation. “He’s in the right stage of his preparation now to have a go and I think it will be his right trip now that he has got a bit older. He did take forever to pick them up today and I think he is in the right form to have a go at it now. “We will find the right open or Benchmark race for him and it would be nice if it was here at Flemington on his preferred track. “He is pretty lightly raced horse for one reason or another. He had a lot of immaturity things go wrong as a young horse and I think there is still at least another 12 months of good racing in him.” Bermadez was plagued by shoulder problems earlier in his career and has now won seven of his 29 starts with a further six placings and has career earnings of A$805,750. Three of his victories have come at Flemington. Bermadez was purchased out of Inglewood Stud’s 2018 New Zealand Bloodstock Book 1 Yearling Sale draft for $280,000 by Paul Moroney. Gus and Bianca Wigley’s Inglewood Stud will offer 14 yearlings at the forthcoming Karaka Yearling Sales with 11 in Book 1 and three in Book 2. Out of the Anabaa mare Pikea (Anabaa), herself a sister to Group Two winner Dances On Waves (Anabaa) it is the family of four-time Group One winner Preferment (NZ) (Zabeel), who stands at Brighthill Farm. View the full article

Craig Grylls salutes Puntura’s victory in the Group 1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) at Trentham on Saturday. Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North) A first-time winner at Group Three and Group Two level in his previous two starts, Puntura took his career-best campaign to even greater heights in Saturday’s Group 1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) at Trentham. Even before the start of this breakthtaking breakthrough season, the Taranaki gelding had been a grand performer for his owner-breeders Carole and John Lynskey. He had won eight of his 28 starts, including three in Queensland, and had banked more than $230,000 in stakes. But it turns out that he was just getting started. Puntura’s incredible summer kicked off with a dominant front-running performance in the $250,000 Group 3 Coupland’s Bakeries Mile (1600m) at Riccarton on November 15. A month later he stepped down to 1400m, switched to weight-for-age and dropped out to third-last during the running of the Group 2 Manawatu Challenge Stakes at Trentham, but he unleashed a powerful finish to prevail again. Saturday brought another new challenge, stepping up to the elite level and taking on the likes of last-start Group 1 Zabeel Classic (2000m) winner Campionessa, Group 2 Rich Hill Mile (1600m) hero Habana and Sydney Group Two performer Skyman. But for the third time in a row, the Robbie Patterson-trained Puntura raised his game to a whole new level and continued his dream run. This time, regular rider Craig Grylls took up a position in second, sitting on the outside of the pace-making El Vencedor. Puntura was travelling effortlessly coming up to the home turn, and Grylls decided not to hold the big six-year-old back. He let Puntura roll forward and take command, angling out into the better ground in the outside half of the home straight. El Vencedor fought back bravely towards the inside through the final 400m, with longshot South Island raider Lady Telena launching a remarkable late burst into third, but Puntura could not be caught. He maintained his advantage with powerful strides through the final 100m, winning the $400,000 feature by a length and a quarter. 2024 Group 1 Thorndon Mile Replay – Puntura “This is just the best,” Grylls said. “Over the last couple of years I’ve struck up a really good partnership with Robbie Patterson on the track, and we’re awesome mates off it as well. That was just an outstanding result. “Right from the jump, he was hard on the bridle. Coming up to the turn, I thought I should try to get out wide before everyone else did. He had a really good kick in the straight, and I knew from about 150m out that it was going to take something pretty good to pass him. “He’s built to this. He’s been good in Australia, and then he’s come back and won a Group Three, a Group Two and now a Group One. “He’s a gentle giant. He’s a big and strong horse, but an absolute gentleman to ride.” Puntura headed a landmark result for Mapperley Stud stallion Vespa, who was credited with his first Group One winner and is also the sire of the third-placed Lady Telena. From 33 starts, Puntura has now recorded 11 wins and four placings, earning in excess of $705,000 for the Lynskeys. “This is massive,” said Patterson, whose other runner in Saturday’s Thorndon Mile field was the fourth-placed One Bold Cat. “The Lynskeys put a lot into racing, and this is a very good horse. People might have doubted him early on, but now he’s won a Group Three, a Group Two and a Group One in succession. He’s a beautiful animal and he deserves it. He’s a big, strong horse, a dominant horse, and he dominated that race today. “Winning the Thorndon Mile is special. It’s something you dream about as a kid. It means a lot.” More horse racing news View the full article