Wandering Eyes

What Alice Springs Races Where Pioneer Park Racecourse – Stuart Highway, Connellan NT 0870 When Saturday, March 9, 2024 First Race 1:15pm ACST Visit Dabble A total of 61 runners have accepted for the seven-event program on Saturday at Alice Springs, which is the fifth meeting in as many weeks in Central Australia. Come Saturday, the forecast is for partly cloudy conditions with light north-easterly winds and a top temperature of 35C. The rail will be in the true position and Pioneer Park will be a good dirt surface. BEST BET: ZOUTELLUS The former Victorian Zoutellus seems to be finding his feet in the NT after failing to make an impression late last year. The son of Zoustar finished unplaced in two starts in the Red Centre before heading to Darwin. A fourth over 1300m (0-58) on December 16 was followed by a second over 1600m (0-64) two weeks later when he pushed the in-form Wilsons Prom to a length. Zoutellus had one more start at Fannie Bay for a fourth over 1300m (0-64) on January 13 before returning to Alice Springs where he carried 57kg en route to a 3.5 lengths win over 1400m (0-64) two weeks ago. Best Bet Race 6 – #2 Zoutellus (1) 3yo Gelding | T: Kerry Petrick | J: Phillip Crich (59kg) Bet with Bet365 NEXT BEST: BEYOND READY In Beyond Ready’s first three starts over 1200m, Beyond Ready won a Wodonga maiden in September and finished third at Pakenham (BM58) in October. He then had two starts over 1400m for a fourth at Benalla (BM58) and a seventh at Pakenham (BM64). In his NT debut two weeks ago against his own age group over 1200m (BM56), the gelding powered home to topple the in-form Don’t Be Dramatic by a half a length. Next Best Race 5 – #1 Beyond Ready (6) 3yo Gelding | T: Kevin Lamprecht | J: Ianish Luximon (a2) (59kg) Bet with Neds BEST VALUE: ARROGANT MISS Arrogant Miss has not saluted since prevailing over 1400m (0-64) in October 2022, but recent form suggests that an eighth win from 41 starts is possible. The daughter of Puissance De Lune has had success from 1000-1400m, so the 1100m shouldn’t be a problem after racing over the longer distances in recent times. A third over 1600m (0-64) in late November was followed by a fourth over 1600m (BM54) in early December. Since then it has been two seconds in January over 1200m (BM54) and in February over 1400m (0-70). With a 3kg claim, the early +800 quote with horse racing betting sites is hard to ignore. Best Value Race 2 – #3 Arrogant Miss (1) 7yo Mare | T: Dan Morgan | J: Dylan Stanley (59kg) Bet with Unibet Saturday NT quaddie tips – 9/3/2024 Alice Springs quadrella selections Saturday, March 9, 2024 1-3-5 1-2-4-8 1-2-5 1-2-3-4 Horse racing tips View the full article

Harlow Rocks will contest the Group 2 Little Avondale Lowland Stakes (2000m) at Taupo on Friday. Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North) Tony Pike has tipped Harlow Rocks as the stable’s best chance of stakes success at Taupo on Friday. The Cambridge trainer will be represented by the in-form Roc de Cambes filly and the promising Sign Of Peace in take two of the Group 2 Little Avondale Lowland Stakes (2000m) following the abandonment of last week’s Hastings meeting. “That was very disappointing the other day, but they both need a lead-up to the New Zealand Oaks (Group 1, 2400m) so we’ll head to Taupo and see how we go,” Pike said. To be ridden again by Ryan Elliot, Harlow Rocks produced a strong front-running performance last time out to finish runner-up to Molly Bloom in the Group 2 Fillies’ Classic (2000m) at Te Rapa. “She’s got the runs on the board and she puts herself up on speed and the Taupo track should suit her,” Pike said. “She is clearly the favoured one and Sign Of Peace stepping up to 2000m will help her, but she is jumping up in class so we’ll find out where she fits in.” Preferment’s daughter Sign Of Peace broke her maiden two runs back at Te Rapa under Michael McNab, who rides her again, and with placings from her other three appearances has made an encouraging start to her career. Harlow Rocks is currently an $8 equal third favourite in the market for the New Zealand Oaks at Trentham on Saturday-week with Sign Of Peace at $41. “Ideally, it would be nice to get them both there as long as they race well and pull up well,” Pike said. He also has another promising three-year-old in action at Taupo with Witz End to step out in the NZB Insurance (1300m) and Sam Weatherley will continue his association with the unbeaten son of Savabeel. “He is a really nice horse and is still a bit new and green, but he has been impressive in his first two starts,” Pike said. “He has taken good improvement out of both runs and we’re hoping to get to the Wellington Guineas (Group 2, 1400m) with him. Should he win again or run well, that will be the next option.” Pike also has in-form contenders in Archaic Smile and Poetic Champion chasing top honours in Saturday’s Group 1 Sistema Stakes (1200m) at Ellerslie. Archaic Smile boxed on well to run fifth in the Group 2 Matamata Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) after racing three deep without cover and Poetic Champion overcame a wide gate, albeit in a small field, to finish runner-up in the Group 3 Matamata Slipper (1200m). McNab partners Archaic Smile while Per-Anders Graberg guides Poetic Champion’s fortunes. “I’m really happy with both of them and their work on Tuesday was very impressive,” Pike said. “They are both drawn to get much softer runs than they got at Matamata where they had tough trips and ran well considering. “The two favourites (Velocious and Captured By Love) look hard to beat, but I’m sure my two will run extremely well and there’s not a lot between them.” Pike is also upbeat about the chances of last-start Pukekohe winer Hat Trick in the Thank You To The NZB Kiwi Slot Holders (1400m). “He’s a promising horse going forward and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him win again,” Pike said. “We’ve got nice each way chances at Taupo and Ellerslie and with an ounce of luck we can hopefully get a few winners.” Horse racing news View the full article

Outgoing NZTR chairman Cameron George. Photo: Supplied The New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) Board has today regrettably announced the resignation of its chairman, Cameron George, effective 31 July 2024. Under his leadership, George, who has served as chairman since 2020, has played a pivotal role in steering NZTR and the racing industry through various challenges and sizeable achievements over recent years. “My decision to step down from my role on the Board hasn’t been an easy one,” George said. “My journey at NZTR started with navigating a path forward for the business through COVID-19. Over time, we have managed to rebuild the industry into the strong position it now holds, demonstrating the resilient team environment I’ve been fortunate enough to be involved in over the last four years. “I’ve enjoyed all the challenges this role has presented me with. Going into it I knew I needed to both question and support initiatives brought to the table. “I now feel we have moved into a model of braver thinking and strategic planning, with innovation at the forefront of our activities. Globally, sports have undergone a significant shift from traditional approaches to embracing innovation and with that, we must not sit on our hands, and continue to pursue becoming a vibrant sport within the entertainment sector,” he said. While reflecting on his tenure as chairman, George expressed his gratitude towards those who guided the industry towards a successful future. “I would firstly like to thank previous chairs of NZTR, the likes of Guy Sargent, Matt Goodson, Alan Jackson and their Boards, who worked tirelessly to underpin the industry into the condition it is today. “I thank NZTR’s Board and management team around me, both past and present, for their dedication to the cause of rebuilding this industry since the dark days of COVID, it truly has been a massive effort. “To the stakeholders and people of the industry, thank you for your strong support, being receptive to change, as well as being prepared to just give things a go. “Finally, so many parts of this industry’s administration deserve credit for helping us reshape and rebuild our future. On a personal note, I would like to acknowledge the efforts of TAB NZ, Entain Australia and New Zealand, our racing Clubs, New Zealand Bloodstock and the New Zealand Government for encouraging the movement of change towards a better future.” George will remain in his role as chairman until 31 July of this year and is committed to maintaining a high standard for New Zealand’s racing landscape. “I look forward to finishing off my tenure with commitment and drive to complete several exciting initiatives we have in the pipeline. It’s all hands-on deck as we get ready for the biggest summer of racing this country has ever seen next year,” George said. NZTR Members’ Council chairman, Jeff McCall, thanked George for his service to the industry. “Cameron’s passion and dedication to the New Zealand racing industry has been illustrated by the numerous positive actions he has undertaken since he has held the position as chair,” McCall said. “On behalf of the Members’ Council and the industry, we thank him for his contribution and wish him all the best for the future.” Horse racing news View the full article

Legarto is set for a lucrative payday at Ellerslie on Saturday following the Group 1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m). Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) The connections of short-priced favourite Legarto are in for a massive payday following Saturday’s $450,000 Group 1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) at Ellerslie, irrespective of the result. The daughter of Proisir is almost assured of taking home the lion’s share of the $650,000 summer series bonus that was introduced this year by Entain Australia and New Zealand in association with New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing. The series is running across four races between January and March, rewarding $500,000 to the series winner, $100,000 to the runner-up and $50,000 for the third placegetter, with the associated trainers taking home 10 percent of the bonus payments. To become eligible for the bonus, a horse needed to have contested either of the first two legs of the series – the Group 1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) at Trentham on January 20 or $1 million Aotearoa Classic (1600m) at Ellerslie on January 27. Having finished runner-up in the Aotearoa Classic before taking out the third leg of the series, the Group 1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) at Te Rapa last month, Legarto is a clear series leader with 20.5 points. With 13.5 points given to the winner of the fourth and final leg of the series, the New Zealand Stakes, and Legarto assured of three points for just starting in the race, Robbie Patterson’s One Bold Cat is the only other horse in contention for the series’ top prize, with the Taranaki gelding having to win and Legarto to finish outside the top four in order to take home $500,000. While it will be a tough ask to roll the $1.45 favourite, One Bold Cat (10.5 points) still has the minor bonuses to chase, alongside stablemate Puntura (9 points), El Vencedor (7 points), and Sharp ‘N’ Smart and Skyman (5 points). While chasing a Group 1 prize is always the primary objective, Legarto’s trainers Ken and Bev Kelso are excited by the added incentive of the summer series bonus. “It is going to be a great day on Saturday because we have got that bonus to go for as well, which is going to be a huge payday,” Ken Kelso told Trackside NZ. “She doesn’t have to win it to get the bonus, it is quite exciting.” Legarto had a trial last week to keep her up to the mark post her Herbie Dyke win, and Kelso has been pleased with her progress. “She had a quiet trial here at Matamata last Thursday over 1100m. She was only getting warmed-up at the line,” he said. “I go down every night at about 7:30pm and check her, and she licks the bowl clean by then and is looking for more. She is really thriving.” While there is some pressure that comes with lining up a short-priced favourite every time you go to the races, Kelso said it is great to give the sport a heroine to help promote the industry. “She goes out pretty short every time, which puts a little bit of pressure on you,” he said. “She is as well as we can get her, it is just up to Ryan (Elliot, jockey) now. “It is great for racing (to have a horse like Legarto). We need these horses to profile the sport and hopefully they get a bit of a following, like Roger’s (James) filly (Orchestral) last week (when winning the Group 1 New Zealand Derby, 2400m).” Horse racing news View the full article

What Newmarket Handicap Day 2024 Where Flemington Racecourse – 448 Epsom Rd, Flemington VIC 3031 When Saturday, March 9, 2024 First Race 12:45pm AEDT Visit Dabble The Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) headlines the stacked eight-race meeting at Flemington on Saturday afternoon. With a top of 38 degrees forecast for Melbourne, a revised start of around 10:45am AEDT looks likely. An upgrade from a Good 4 to a Good 3 is expected at some stage, with the rail out 4m for the entire circuit. Crucially, a strong northerly breeze is also forecast, meaning it could be disadvantageous to be leading in the circle races. Keep reading for HorseBetting’s free race-by-race preview and tips for Flemington races. Race 1: 3YO Quality (1100m) Akicita is first-up from a six-month spell but brings genuine Group-level form to the Flemington opener. He finished a neck off Australian Guineas victor Southport Tycoon, and 3.3 lengths ahead of subsequent Group 2-winner Snow Patrol. Drawn on the outside of the track, Jye McNeil can have the Grunt colt settled in the second half of the field, and from there, Akicita can overpower his rivals late. Selections: 8 AKICITA 3 GUMDROPS 4 HEDGED 2 HANCHI Next Best Race 1 – #8 Akicita (8) 3yo Colt | T: Robbie Griffiths & Mathew de Kock | J: Jye McNeil (574kg) +230 with Bet365 Race 2: Australian Cup Prelude (1800m) Young Werther is the best horse in the Australian Cup Prelude, and he should exert his class on the small field on Saturday. The Danny O’Brien-trained veteran returned with a narrow defeat in Group 3 company at Caulfield on February 10 and was hitting the line nicely over 1600m in a leader-dominated affair. In a field where there looks to be little to no speed influences, look for Damian Lane to use barrier one to his advantage and have Young Werther lead from barrier to box. Selections: 2 YOUNG WERTHER 7 FAWKNER PARK 5 BERKELEY SQUARE 4 BERMADEZ Best Bet Race 2 – #2 Young Werther (1) 6yo Gelding | T: Danny O’Brien | J: Damian Lane (56kg) +110 with Neds Race 3: 3YO Quality (1400m) Ersa showed plenty of promise during her initial campaign, and despite drawing barrier 14 for her return, the filly looks set to gain a perfect cart across the field and land the one-one. She is armed with a strong turn of foot, and if the race can be run to suit those on speed, Ersa can overpower her rivals late and salute at a nice price with horse racing bookmakers. Selections: 10 ERSA 2 SCULLY 3 LEGACIES 5 VIVY AIR Best Value Race 3 – #10 Ersa (14) 3yo Filly | T: Ben, Will & JD Hayes | J: Michael Dee (54kg) +2000 with Playup Race 4: Group 2 VRC Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) Aardvark returned with a breathtaking victory in Listed grade at the Flemington 1100m, and the 1400m looks to be right up his alley. Despite being strung up in traffic at a crucial point, the Capitalist colt produced a strong finish and won it running away from his rivals. He looks set to gain the perfect run in transit from barrier four under Damian Lane, and with a similar turn of foot, Aardvark can win again. Selections: 4 AARDVARK 1 RUE DE ROYALE 2 STAY FOCUSED 3 TRAFFIC WARDEN VRC Sires’ Produce Stakes Race 4 – #4 Aardvark (4) 2yo Colt | T: Leon & Troy Corstens | J: Damian Lane (57kg) +700 with Picklebet Race 5: Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) The 151st running of the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap takes centre stage on Saturday. Imperatriz will be looking to rewrite history, while the likes of Buenos Noches, Magic Time and Benedetta are aiming to continue their rise through the grades. Can anyone upset the superstar Kiwi? Click here for HorseBetting’s in-depth preview of the 2024 Newmarket Handicap Race 6: Group 2 Kewney Stakes (1600m) Serasana produced a big run on return when forced to travel three wide with no cover up on speed. The three-year-old filly tired late to be beaten by 1.8 lengths in Group 2 company, so with an easier run in transit, and the jump to the mile second-up she looks a great play. John Allen will need a touch of luck early to find cover from barrier seven, but with a swift turn of foot, Serasana can cause a minor upset in the Group 2 Kewney Stakes. Selections: 1 SERASANA 6 MOLLYNICKERS 5 AUTUMN ANGEL 9 FRENCH ENDEAVOUR Kewney Stakes Race 6 – #1 Serasana (7) 3yo Filly | T: Robbie Griffiths & Mathew de Kock | J: John Allen (56kg) +1000 with Dabble Race 7: Group 3 Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap (1400m) Plenty of early money came for Amenable and Berkshire Shadow in the Group 3 Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap, but with both runners needing a genuinely run 1400m, the race sets up perfectly for Pinstriped to camp on the leaders’ heels and then put them away. With two wins and two runner-up efforts from five fresh runs, Pinstriped is clearly a first-up specialist, and he looks to get conditions to suit. He will need a touch of luck in the home straight, but if the breaks come, Pinstriped looks a great play. Selections: 2 PINSTRIPED 3 AMENABLE 1 BERKSHIRE SHADOW 4 SAVANNAH CLOUD Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap Race 7 – #2 Pinstriped (2) 5yo Gelding | T: Enver Jusufovic | J: Ben Allen (59kg) +600 with Unibet Race 8: Group 3 Matron Stakes (1600m) Foxy Cleopatra loomed as a winning hope at Caulfield last time out, but the likes of Campionessa, Vow And Declare and Gold Trip proved too strong for her over the 1800m. She steps back from Group 2 company to a 1600m Group 3 race on Saturday, and from barrier nine, the four-year-old mare can go back to the rear of the field and absorb the pressure. With a strong finish burst, Foxy Cleopatra will prove too hard to hold out this time around. Selections: 6 FOXY CLEOPATRA 1 FOXY FRIDA 3 UNUSUAL CULTURE 10 ETERNAL FLAME Matron Stakes Race 8 – #6 Foxy Cleopatra (9) 4yo Mare | T: Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young | J: Blake Shinn (55kg) +500 with Picklebet Flemington free Saturday quaddie tips Flemington quadrella selections Saturday, March 9, 2024 1-3 1-2-4-5-6-9 1-2-3 1-3-5-6-10 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Asterix winning the Group 2 Avondale Cup (2400m). Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Wexford Stables have fond memories at Ellerslie with Asterix, and they are hoping to add another when they head to the Auckland track this Saturday to contest the Group 2 Auckland Cup (3200m). Asterix is unbeaten on the course in two starts, recording the stable’s second consecutive win in the Group 1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) at Ellerslie two years ago, and returned to the venue last month to take out the Group 2 Avondale Cup (2400m) under jockey Lynsey Satherley. The Waikato hoop retains the ride for the Auckland Cup, for which the Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott-trained Asterix is currently a $4.20 favourite with bookmakers, ahead of the Roger James and Robert Wellwood-trained pair of Mark Twain ($6) and Dionysus ($6.50). “Andrew and I are pleased with the way he is going. He is certainly going to strip fit and we are confident he is going to run the two-miles,” Lance O’Sullivan told Trackside NZ. “He is bred to do that on his dam side, I think she won over 3000m. We thought running distance was never going to be a problem with him going forward. We are going to find out, but we think it is going to be right up his alley. We just couldn’t be happier with the horse.” O’Sullivan took plenty of satisfaction in seeing Asterix return to winning form at Ellerslie last start. “The blinkers went back on him and we were hoping he was going to do what he did, and he certainly delivered. He has just got to back it up again this week,” he said. “He has come back to the Asterix of old.” Horse racing news View the full article

What Bunbury Cup Day Where Bunbury Racecourse – Brittain Rd, Bunbury WA 6230 When Saturday, March 9, 2024 First Race 12:29pm AWST Visit Dabble The Listed Bunbury Cup and Bunbury Stakes will headline the nine-race meeting at Bunbury on Saturday afternoon. With warm weather forecast for Friday and Saturday, the track is expected to stay in the Good range for the whole program. The rail will be in the True position for the club’s marquee meeting. The opening race on Bunbury Cup Day will jump at 12:29pm AWST. Bunbury Cup Tip: Black Fantasy After beating all bar Marocchino in the Listed Detonator Stakes last start, Black Fantasy will take on a similar field in the Bunbury Cup, where he gets in much better at the weights. The Daniel & Ben Pearce-trained galloper settled outside the leader and eventual winner previously but couldn’t go with him late. With Clint Johnston-Porter retaining the ride and expected to push forward from barrier eight, this son of Blackfriars will get every chance to turn the tables on Marocchino and record a deserving victory. Bunbury Cup Race 8 – #3 Black Fantasy (8) 5yo Gelding | T: Daniel & Ben Pearce | J: Clint Johnston-Porter (58kg) +270 with Playup Bunbury Stakes Tip: Searchin’ Rocs Searchin’ Rocs was very good first-up when the Jim Taylor-trained mare travelled three-wide for the entire trip in the Listed Pinjarra Classic and was only beaten by a nose on the line by River Rubicon. Although this daughter of Awesome Rock has drawn a wide barrier (15), there appears to be less speed, and she should be able to get across the field and settle outside the leader. With the benefit of one start under her belt and a more economical run in transit, Searchin’ Rocs will prove very hard to run down late. Bunbury Stakes Race 7 – #4 Searchin’ Rocs (15) 5yo Mare | T: Jim Taylor | J: Kyra Yuill (57.5kg) +800 with Picklebet Best Bet at Bunbury: Blue Rocket Blue Rocket couldn’t have been more impressive when winning over 1000m at Ascot on debut, as the Daniel & Ben Pearce-trained filly jumped well, led the field up, and kicked clear to win by two lengths on the line. The daughter of Blue Point showed her superior speed early before settling mid-race and sprinting away for her rivals late. Considering that Natasha Faithfull retains the ride and she meets a field stacked with debutants, it is hard to go past this girl here. Barring any bad luck or a slow jump from the barriers, Blue Rocket should be winning again. Best Bet Race 1 – #1 Blue Rocket (8) 2yo Filly | T: Daniel & Ben Pearce | J: Natasha Faithfull (57kg) +170 with Neds Next Best at Bunbury: Defending After missing the jump by two lengths and then running home strongly to finish third last start, Defending looks to be a great bet at Bunbury as he steps up from 1200m to 1400m fourth-up in this preparation. The Daniel & Ben Pearce-trained gelding has been finished in the placings at two of his last three runs and appears to be crying out for further, which is what he will get on Saturday. If Chris Parnham can get this son of Oratorio to jump with the rest of the field and hold a midfield position off the fence, Defending will play a prominent role in the finish. Next Best Race 9 – #8 Defending (7) 5yo Gelding | T: Daniel & Ben Pearce | J: Chris Parnham (54kg) +550 with Dabble Saturday quaddie tips for Bunbury races Bunbury quadrella selections Saturday, March 9, 2024 1-3-5-7 4-5-6-9-13 1-2-3 3-6-8 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

While James McDonald, Zac Purton and Alexis Badel have all ridden the reigning Hong Kong Derby champion this season, the veteran trainer is confident the Godolphin jockey is the man for the jobView the full article

What SA Magic Millions Day Where Murray Bridge Racing Club – 342 Brinkley Rd, Murray Bridge South SA 5253 When Saturday, March 9, 2024 First Race 10:25am ACDT Visit Dabble Metropolitan racing in South Australia heads to Murray Bridge on Saturday for the club’s annual Magic Millions Day. The 2YO Classic and the 3YO & 4YO Classic take top billing on the nine-race program. With extreme weather forecast, the first race is set to jump at 10:25am ACDT, with the track a Good 4 and the rail set true. Magic Millions SA 2YO Classic Tip: Dancing Storm First-up from a 10-week spell, Dancing Storm from the Richard & Chantelle Jolly barn looks the one to beat in the feature for juveniles. The Sir Prancealot progeny racked up a couple of minor placings in his first campaign, but his trial win at Gawler on February 29 suggests he has come back in top order. From barrier seven, if Todd Pannell can land the one-one spot, Dancing Storm should prove too hard to hold out in the Magic Millions SA 2YO Classic. Magic Millions SA 2YO Classic Race 2 – #2 Dancing Storm (7) 2yo Gelding | T: Richard & Chantelle Jolly | J: Todd Pannell (57kg) +450 with Picklebet Magic Millions SA 3YO & 4YO Classic Tip: Dubenenko She had a lacklustre spring, but Chris Bieg’s Dubenenko has always threatened to win a big race. As a juvenile, she started at $5.50 at Flemington in a race that included the likes of Veight and Apulia, both genuine Group 1 products. Murray Bridge will suit Dubenenko perfectly as she looks to build through her gears from the rear of the field, and as long as she does not get too far back, she can salute at a nice price with horse racing bookmakers. Magic Millions SA 3YO & 4YO Classic Race 6 – #12 Dubenenko (8) 3yo Filly | T: Chris Bieg | J: Caitlin Jones (54kg) +1100 with Playup Best Bet at Murray Bridge: Jacks On Ice Coming off a dominant three-length victory at Morphettville, Jacks On Ice gets the perfect recipe for success as he looks to run his rivals off their feet again. Drawn on the pole under Alana Livesey, the pair look destined to gain an uncontested lead over the 1200m. Considering he is an 80-rater going around in BM74 company, Jacks On Ice should prove too hard to run down despite needing to lug 61kg. Best Bet Race 2 – #1 Jacks On Ice (1) 5yo Gelding | T: Richard & Chantelle Jolly | J: Alana Livesey (a2) (63kg) +125 with Neds Best Value at Murray Bridge: Toast The Deel Toast The Deel has shown consistent form this preparation and gets her chance to bring up a third win from her last five starts. The key to her chances on Saturday is a genuinely run 1400m event, as she will be one of the last few swinging for home on the turn. With a few of her rivals wanting to take up a forward spot, it should leave them vulnerable late on and allow Toast The Deel to finish over the top. Best Value Race 5 – #8 Toast The Deel (9) 5yo Mare | T: Will Clarken & Niki O’Shea | J: Todd Pannell (56.5kg) +1100 with Dabble Saturday quaddie tips for Murray Bridge Murray Bridge quadrella selections Saturday, March 9, 2024 1-3-6-7-12 1-3-5-7-9 1-2-3-4-7 10-12-13-15-16 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article

This weekend at Flemington, Mark Walker‘s champion mare Imperatriz will attempt to etch her name further into racing history by winning the 2024 Newmarket Handicap. Imperatriz is out to become a 10-time Group 1 winning mare in the Newmarket Handicap 2024 this weekend. Photo: Ultimate Racing Photos. The nine-time Group 1 winner, a daughter of I Am Invincible, will carry the top weight of 58kg in the prestigious $1.5 million sprint race over 1200m. Imperatriz kicked off her campaign in impressive fashion, narrowly defeating Private Eye in the Group 1 Black Caviar Lightning (1000m) at the track. Now, she returns to her preferred distance of 1200m, boasting a formidable record of 7 wins, 1 second-place finish, and 1 third-place finish from 9 starts at this distance. Additionally, her second-up record is equally impressive, with 5 wins and 1 third-place finish from 6 attempts. Unsurprisingly, Imperatriz sits comfortably atop the Newmarket Handicap odds at $2.60 through Ladbrokes, but faces a unique challenge. She aims to become the first horse since Hay List (58.5kg in 2012) to win the race carrying more than 57.5kg. The last mare to carry the 58kg to victory was the legendary Black Caviar in 2011, highlighting the elite company Imperatriz is striving to join. Despite the weight disadvantage, Imperatriz draws favourably in barrier three with jockey Opie Bosson onboard, making her a strong contender. Her main challenger is expected to be Buenos Noches ($4.60). The field has been reduced to thirteen runners following the early scratching of Espiona, leaving only one other horse besides Imperatriz and Buenos Noches in single-figure odds – the resuming Magic Time ($7). Chris Waller‘s Espiona, originally slated to run in the Newmarket, will instead compete in the smaller field of the Group 1 Canterbury Stakes (1300m) at Randwick on the same day. Other hopefuls in the Newmarket Handicap include the well-performed Bella Nipotina ($10) and the three-year-old contender Cylinder ($16). The 2024 Newmarket Handicap will be run as Race 5 on Saturday’s eight-race card at Flemington, with the starting time set for 3:05 pm (AEDT). 2024 Newmarket Handicap Field No Last 10 Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight Probable Weight Penalty Hcp Rating 1 121x1111x1 IMPERATRIZ Mark Walker Opie Bosson 3 58kg 119 2 36x33315x4 BELLA NIPOTINA Ciaron Maher Craig Williams 4 55.5kg 114 3 x57x1382x4 BUENOS NOCHES Matthew Smith Blake Shinn 9 55.5kg 110 4 17x21714x3 ESPIONA Chris Waller Jye McNeil 8 54.5kg 112 5 0150x7527x RUTHLESS DAME (NZ) Ciaron Maher Damian Lane 2 53.5kg 110 6 1x13x5131x MAGIC TIME Grahame Begg Michael Dee 12 53kg 109 7 062725×957 THE ASTROLOGIST Leon & Troy Corstens Declan Bates 14 52.5kg 104 8 113x1134x4 BENEDETTA Jason Warren Harry Coffey 11 52kg 102 9 423134043x IT’SOURTIME Danny O’Brien Ms Linda Meech 1 52kg 98 10 1×11 MASTER FAY Chad Ormsby Dean Yendall 10 52kg 90 11 1134111219 REY MAGNERIO Robbie Griffiths & Mathew de Kock Daniel Moor 7 52kg 88 12 145×113117 SGHIRRIPA Shane & Cassie Oxlade Craig Newitt 6 52kg 102 13 22x21615x0 SKEW WIFF (NZ) Mark Walker Ms Celine Gaudray (a) 5 52kg 107 14 27x11350x6 CYLINDER James Cummings Ms Jamie Kah 13 51.5kg 107 Table Credit: Racing Australia. This page and the written content within it were partially generated using AI or automated technology and edited and verified by our editorial team. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. The post Imperatriz Aims for Double-Digit Group 1 Wins in 2024 Newmarket Handicap appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

What QTIS Jewel Raceday Where Gold Coast Turf Club – Racecourse Dr, Bundall QLD 4217 When Saturday, March 9, 2024 First Race 11:38am AEST Visit Dabble The QTIS 2YO Jewel and QTIS 3YO Jewel will headline the massive 10-race card at the Gold Coast Turf Club this Saturday afternoon. At the time of acceptances, the track was rated a Soft 7; however, with rain forecast for Friday and Saturday, there is a possibility of a downgrade in the lead-up or during the program. The rail will go back into the true position, with racing set to kick off at 11:38am AEST. QTIS 2YO Jewel Tip: Estrondo After recording an impressive win on his debut at the Sunshine Coast over 1200m, Estrondo will seek to keep his unbeaten record intact in the first of the two feature races. This son of Spirit Of Boom will drop in weight and should be able to push forward and settle close to the speed off the fence. Kyle Wilson-Taylor will look to find clear air around the home corner and let Estrondo go through his gears late. QTIS 2YO Jewel Race 8 – #6 Estrondo (11) 2yo Colt | T: Robert Heathcote | J: Kyle Wilson-Taylor (57kg) +900 with Unibet QTIS 3YO Jewel Tip: Defiant Spirit Defiant Spirit let down with a blistering turn of foot to claim victory in his most recent start, running home from the back of the field to glide past his rivals and win by 1.8 lengths. After giving most of his rivals a weight advantage last start, this son of Spirit Of Boom will drop 2kg and race against a similar field at set weights. If Robbie Dolan can find some cover in the three-wide running line and settle a little worse than midfield, Defiant Spirit can bring up back-to-back wins. QTIS 3YO Jewel Race 9 – #1 Defiant Spirit (20) 3yo Gelding | T: Stuart Kendrick | J: Robbie Dolan (57kg) +360 with Picklebet Best Bet at Gold Coast: Daytona Bay Daytona Bay was beaten by Sea Raider at massive odds after he couldn’t reel in the leader in the final 200m. However, this son of American Pharoah will meet Sea Raider better off at the weights, and he should appreciate the rise in distance to 1800m fourth-up. From barrier five, James Orman can push forward and take up the lead or take a sit behind the leader if another runner wants to go too quick. With even luck in the final 300m, Daytona Bay should prove extremely hard to hold out late. Best Bet Race 4 – #1 Daytona Bay (5) 5yo Gelding | T: Kelly Schweida | J: James Orman (60kg) +150 with Neds Next Best at Gold Coast: Heleva Deel Mark Currie and James Orman will combine with Heleva Deel when she steps up to 1800m for the first time this campaign, coming off two very encouraging runs over shorter distances. Last start, this daughter of Dundeel was left a little flatfooted at the top of the straight over 1615m at Doomben, but she still ran home well to finish fourth, only beaten 1.4 lengths. After drawing barrier two, Orman can let Heleva Deel settle where she is comfortable before getting her into clear air to run home strongly. Next Best Race 3 – #4 Heleva Deel (2) 6yo Mare | T: Mark Currie | J: James Orman (57.5kg) +320 with Playup Best Value at Gold Coast: Immoral Immoral was a little unlucky in his previous start, as he was held up on the home turn and had trouble getting into clear air before running home strongly into third place. With a lot of speed expected in this contest, Angela Jones will allow this son of Deep Field to settle towards the rear of the field and build his momentum around the home turn. If Immoral is within striking range with 300m to go, his big finish should help him run over the top of his rivals late. Best Value Race 10 – #7 Immoral (13) 5yo Gelding | T: Tony Gollan | J: Angela Jones (59kg) +1100 with Dabble Saturday quaddie tips for Gold Coast races Gold Coast quadrella selections Saturday, March 9, 2024 3-6-9 3-6-7-8 1-4-5-10-11 7-8-12-13 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article

Sweet Azteca is coming off a 12-length romp, while Adare Manor, a four-time graded winner in 2023, is making her 2024 debut in the Beholder Mile Stakes (G1) at Santa Anita Park.View the full article

Hit the Road, winner of the 2021 Frank E. Kilroe Mile Stakes (G1T) at Santa Anita Park, has been sold to stand stud at Ridgemont in South Africa.View the full article

The RIB has commenced an investigation into incidents involving greyhounds alleged to have raced in breach of GRNZ Rule 25(6) which states as below; GRNZ Rule 25 Minimum – vaccination requirements: (6) Unless GRNZ determines otherwise, a greyhound must not compete in any Event within five days of the date it was administered a vaccine. All Greyhound Racing LPs should be familiar with and comply with this rule. The RIB also reminds all LP’s of GRNZ’s April 2023 update which notes LP’s must notify GRNZ of the vaccination of a racing greyhound within 24 hours of the vaccination taking place to ensure ongoing accuracy of GRNZ’s systems. Non-compliance with this rule gives rise to a potential animal welfare concern. The post Racing in breach of the vaccination rule appeared first on RIB. View the full article

The University of Arizona Race Track Industry Program (RTIP), known for educating future leaders in racing, is hiring an Assistant Professor of Practice. The individual will deliver a minimum of 14 units of the program's core coursework and report directly to the Director of the School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical Sciences in the College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences. Click here for more information. The post RTIP Hiring Assistant Professor of Practice appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

If the crowd at Light Up Racing's first community event in Lexington, held Feb. 26 at Fasig-Tipton, was any indication of the support behind the industry's new grassroots initiative, the number of attendees at their second event held Tuesday, Mar. 5 at Keeneland only solidified that. Over 300 people, spanning across all aspects of the Thoroughbred industry, gathered in Keeneland's Limestone Café to learn about how their own voices and platforms can be used to collectively transform negative opinions about racing into positive messaging through accurate information, transparency, authenticity and professional language. Building on what she shared during the inaugural event, which covered six critical concepts that can help industry members reshape the public's perception of horse racing, presenter Vicky Leonard discussed turning challenges into opportunities through strategic communication and social media engagement. “We can use the collective insights of everybody here and the deep knowledge that you all have. You have amazing stories, you know the industry better than anybody, and we can use that to ensure that the content we're putting outside of the industry is more creative than it ever could be if you weren't living it and breathing it,” said Leonard. “Of course, it's going to be more trusted. You guys have the voice that will be authentically representing the industry.” In 2022, Leonard's Australian-based marketing agency Kick Collective launched Kick Up For Racing. Inspired to establish something similar stateside, Price Bell, Roderick Wachman, Jason Litt and Dr. Jeff Berk spearheaded the launch of Light Up Racing late last year. With a foundation based on four key pillars of transparency, awareness, community and accountability, Light Up Racing offers three levels of engagement: network, community and cohort. Beginning at the first tier, members within the Light Up Racing network will have access to resources via email and the initiative's website that will equip them with essential resources, key messages and talking points to address any difficult questions. Light Up Racing's website has culminated a bank of common questions from the public regarding aftercare, racetracks, racing and welfare, and answers to those questions based on scientific research and expert vet advice. The website's research hub also provides access to various relevant scientific studies that can help in these responses. “We just need you to be an educated advocate for the industry, in person and online. We want you to be our eyes and ears out there. When you spot something and you're not comfortable responding, let us know. And we also need you to share our information,” said Leonard. From there, involvement would be expanded to the community level, which aims to bring together a social network of 1,000 industry members and supporters to combat misinformation about the industry with timely, educated responses, while also distributing positive racing content. “Social media is where inflammatory content gets the most engagement, so people who are often quite irrational tend to get the most limelight and that's a little bit challenging and it's pretty scary. But you don't need to get in a tit-for-tat argument,” said Leonard. “It's just about responding to things that are completely incorrect with what is correct. When you've done that once, or perhaps clarified something once more, you don't need to get involved again. “It's really important that people who are only there for the comments do see that there's been an educated response to a piece of misinformation.” Light Up Racing's Vicky Leonard | Sara Gordon Diving deeper into how best to handle any contentious conversations concerning the industry, Leonard encourages approaching from a mindset of curiosity, not defensiveness. She suggests using two important questions–'What makes you think that?' and then, 'Where does your information come from?'–in response to someone who poses a difficult question in order to discern what their value system is and how best to address the question. Outside of those interactions, Leonard encourages every industry member to simply be more cognizant of the language they use when discussing the industry. Though many phrases or terms are easily understood internally, they can take on a whole new meaning when heard by someone outside of the industry. “In the media too, we can also be a bit relaxed. We use terms like 'breaking its maiden' or 'breaking from the barriers,' and again, we don't realize that people that don't know the industry well, it's actually a poor way to be putting our sport out there,” she said. Continuing on, the top tier would be the cohort, which Leonard explained would be the most time-consuming level of involvement. Within this level, Light Up Racing aims to establish a group of 100 people who have gone through official social media and media training. The goal is to establish and support a team of people willing to become authentic influencers, forming a grassroots network of spokespeople for the industry. “When a crisis happens, we don't just always have to turn to our CEOs. If we have the right people in the grassroots, you're always going to be far more trusted than somebody being told that they have to do that interview,” said Leonard. “Our job is to empower you, but ultimately, you have to do it. Whilst we can give you all the tools in the world and the strategy, along with giving you the support and the resources, we do need you, the people in this room, to make sure that it works.” Outside of providing the resources for those industry advocates to be able to address the media, Light Up Racing hopes to inspire all industry members to use their personal experiences and share that on social media, giving the public a 'behind-the-scenes' look at everyday life in the racing industry. Online content that 'pulls back the curtain' not only garners an audience, but educates that audience as well, which in turn organically improves public perception. “The time of looking towards just the elite has passed. We really look for relatable people in everyday life. People who know someone in an industry, even if just on social media, are far more likely to trust that industry,” said Leonard. “What's vital with social media is that authenticity trumps perfection. We need to stop worrying about being perfect and start being real.” Light Up Racing is developing a curriculum that will be released in the next couple of weeks as they bring together their first group of 20 people, based out of Kentucky, to go through the media training. They will do five of these training sessions over the next several months based in different areas. A full recording of the two community presentations will be available online. To learn more about Light Up Racing and how you can get involved, visit LightUpRacing.com. The post Light Up Racing Aims To Change Industry Narrative appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Ben Thompson celebrates his Hong Kong breakthrough. Ben Thompson jubilated in breakthrough Hong Kong success at Happy Valley on Wednesday night, describing his win on Courier Magic as “an amazing result” as the Australian’s patience and resolve was finally rewarded. Undeterred after 48 fruitless previous outings, Thompson snared his first Hong Kong win aboard Jamie Richards’ charge, triumphing at +4000. Adding to a career tally of 800 wins accumulated in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates, Thompson was elated – and relieved – after the victory. “It’s taken a couple of weeks to wait, but it’s extremely rewarding to ride a winner here, Thompson, 27, said. “It’s just nice to get the first winner out of the way – a big thanks to Jamie Richards, his team and connections. “It’s very surreal. I’m sure it’s not going to sink in straight away, but a huge thrill – an amazing result for my career. “They gave me a nice fit horse to ride and he draw well (barrier three) and it worked out perfectly. “Every jockey, wherever they go, let alone Hong Kong, wants to ride winners and I didn’t expect anything to be easier – nothing has surprised me – and it was just a matter of being patient and riding everything as well as I could and it’s great to finally get a winner.” Richards slotted a double and Hugh Bowman added to last Sunday’s treble when Celestial Colours clinched the Class 3 Kwoon Chung Bus Cup Handicap (1200m) to earn a HK$1.5 million PP Bonus. Ricky Yiu also posted a double, praising Luke Ferraris’ ride on Colonel after the veteran sprinter led all the way to claim his fourth win over the course and distance. “The jockey loves to go the front, he’s a front-running jockey – he did a good job and the other advantage is the horse dropping to Class 5,” Yiu said. Preparing to send stable star Voyage Bubble to Dubai for the Group 1 Dubai Turf (1800m) on March 30, Yiu confirmed the Group 1 Stewards’ Cup (1600m) victor would be ridden at Meydan by Mickael Barzalona. “Voyage Bubble is doing well, there’s every chance I will give him a trial before he leaves on the 19th and everything is on the right track,” Yiu said. Yiu’s brace came with Solar Partner’s success under Bowman. Like Colonel, Solar Partner had dropped in grade and was far too good for his rivals. John Size extended a familiar mid-season surge with Amazing Teens’ success under Alexis Badel. The 12-time champion trainer now has 36 victories for the campaign to trail only Pierre Ng (49) and Francis Lui (37). Tony Cruz and Angus Chung combined for their eighth victory of the season when Colourful Emperor claimed a HK$1.5 million PP Bonus for winning. Cruz also figured with Red Hare King, who sat three-wide under Matthew Chadwick, but was still too strong. “It was a tough win, but it was a race where everything was ridden upside down,” Chadwick said. “The pace wasn’t fast, to be honest, and he was comfortable and in a smooth rhythm. “He had the consistent form and he was the best horse in the race. Hopefully he gets a kinder run next time.” Zac Purton’s relentless pursuit of a seventh Hong Kong jockeys’ championship continued with victory aboard David Hayes-trained Strongest Boy. With six minor placings to his credit pre-race, the Spirit Of Boom gelding broke through at his 17th attempt. Danny Shum and Keagan De Melo combined with Happy Soul to close the meeting in style with victory. Horse racing news View the full article

Horse Racing on Thursday, March 7 will feature four meetings in Australia. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the best bets and provided free quaddie tips for the meeting at Pakenham. Thursday Horse Racing Tips – March 7, 2024 Pakenham Racing Tips As always, there are plenty of promotions available for Australian racing fans. Check out all the top online bookmakers to see what daily promotions they have. If you are looking for a new bookmaker for the horse racing taking place on March 7, 2024, check out our guide to the best online racing betting sites. Horse racing tips View the full article

Top-tier bookmakers have rolled out an enticing lineup of racing specials slated for Thursday, March 7. Standouts on the list include a slew of lucrative bonus-back incentives, elevating the thrill of the trackside action. Dive into these offers from top horse racing betting sites to maximise your wagering prospects. The top Australian racing promotions for March 7, 2024, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions 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 Pakenham All Races – 25% Boosted Winnings Paid in Bonus Cash. First Fixed Win Cash Bet. Max Bonus $250. Picklebet T&Cs apply. Login to PickleBet to Claim Promo BoomBet Daily Race Returns Use your daily Race Returns to back a runner in ANY RACE you want* and if your horse doesn’t win but finishes in the specified positions, you get your stake back as a bonus bet. 18+ Gamble responsibly. Can be used across any race and code unless specified in customer’s BoomBox. Fix odds, win bets only. Max bonus $50. Login to BoomBet to Claim Promo Daily Trifecta Boosts Boost your winnings on Trifecta by 10% with new Daily trifecta boosts. Thoroughbreds only. T&Cs apply. Login to UniBet to Claim Promo How does horsebetting.com.au source its racing bonus offers? HorseBetting.com.au has conducted a thorough evaluation of Australia’s leading horse racing bookmakers, unveiling exclusive bonus promotions and specials tailored specifically for Thursday, March 7, 2024. These horse racing promotions stand as a testament to the unwavering dedication of Australia’s top horse racing bookmakers. In the realm of horse racing betting, if one bookmaker is not currently offering a promotion, you can be confident that another is capitalising on promotional offers. Your go-to destination for the most rewarding horse racing bookmaker bonuses each day is HorseBetting.com.au. Take advantage of bookie bonuses and the best horse racing odds available for every race to increase the value of your betting endeavours. It’s important to note that these thoroughbred racing promotion offers are exclusively crafted 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 seeking races and horses to optimise their horse betting bookmaker bonus bets, HorseBetting provides a valuable resource with its daily free racing tips. More horse racing promotions View the full article

Michael Lund Petersen's impressive grade 3 winner Kinza towers over a field of eight 3-year-old fillies in the 1 1/16-mile $100,000 Santa Ysabel Stakes (G3) at Santa Anita Park March 9.View the full article

Unstarted since running a close fifth in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf (G1T) last fall at Santa Anita, stakes-winning Austere resumes racing against a deep and promising cast March 9 in the $200,000 Florida Oaks (G3T) at Tampa Bay Downs.View the full article

Every week, the TDN posts a roundup of the relevant Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA)-related rulings from around the country. Among this week's rulings, trainer Daniel Franko has been suspended seven days after his trainee, Misty's Cat, tested positive for caffeine, when winning at Golden Gate Fields on Dec. 1 last year. He was also fined $1,000. Caffeine is a Class B controlled substance under HISA. The case was resolved without a hearing. NEW HISA/HIWU STEWARDS RULINGS The following rulings were reported on HISA's “rulings” portal and through the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit's (HIWU) “pending” and “resolved” cases portals. Resolved ADMC Violations Resolution Date: 03/06/2024 Licensee: James Watkins, trainer Penalty: 15-day period of Ineligibility for Covered Person, beginning on March 7, 2024; Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $1,000; imposition of 2 Penalty Points. Final decision by HIWU. Explainer: For the presence of Xylazine-Controlled Medication (Class B)-in a sample taken from Dennis's Pride, who finished fifth at Fanduel Sportsbook and Horse Racing on 11/11/23. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Resolution Date: 03/28/2024 Licensee: Michael Simone, trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Final decision by HIWU. Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Another Duke, who won at Tampa Bay on 1/28/24. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Resolution Date: 02/29/2024 Licensee: Howard Love, trainer Penalty: None. Equine controlled medication charges withdrawn. Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Slender Slipper on 2/3/24. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Resolution Date: 02/29/2024 Licensee: Daniel Franko, trainer Penalty: 7-day period of Ineligibility for Covered Person, beginning on March 1, 2024; Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $1,000; imposition of 2 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Caffeine-Controlled Medication (Class B)-in a sample taken from Misty's Cat, who won at Golden Gate on 12/1/23. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Pending ADMC Violations Date: 12/27/2023 Licensee: George Arnold II, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Tramadol-Controlled Medication (Class B)-in a sample taken from Figgy, who won at Turfway Park on 12/27/23. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 01/28/2024 Licensee: Isidro Tamayo, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Vet's list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Silent Beauty on 1/28/24. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 02/16/2024 Licensee: Patrick Biancone, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: A possible violation of Rule 3314-Use or Attempted Use of a Controlled Medication Substance or a Controlled Medication Method-on the horse, Infinite Diamond. This was also a possible violation of Rule 4222-Intra-Articular Injections Within Seven (7) Days of Timed and Reported Workout. Date: 02/06/2024 Licensee: Patricia Farro, trainer Penalty: Interim suspension Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Cobalt Salts-a banned substance-in a sample taken from Deplane, who won at Parx Racing on 2/6/23. This is a possible violation of Rule 3212-Presence of a Banned Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List Workout). Date: 02/02/2024 Licensee: Brandon Kulp, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged Violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the potential breach of Rule 4221-Alkalinization or use/administration of an Alkalinizing Agent (TCO2)-on Me Darlin Kathleen, who won at Penn National on 2/2/2024. This is also a possible violation of Rule 3313-Use of a Controlled Method During the Race Period. Date: 02/14/2024 Licensee: Jose D'Angelo, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Vets' list medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Omeprazole and Cimetidine-both Controlled Medications (Class C)-in a sample taken from Sun Azteca on 2/14/24. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 01/31/2024 Licensee: Jamie Ness, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged Violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the potential breach of Rule 4221-Alkalinization or use/administration of an Alkalinizing Agent (TCO2)-on Tops the Chart, who finished fourth at Parx Racing on 1/31/2024. This is also a possible violation of Rule 3313-Use of a Controlled Method During the Race Period. Violations of Crop Rule One important note: HISA's whip use limit is restricted to six strikes during a race. Oaklawn Park Joe Bealmear – violation date March 3; $250 fine, no further details Rafael Jesus Bejarano – violation date March 2; $250 fine, no further details Joe Bealmear – violation date March 1; $250 fine, no further details Santa Anita Tyler Baze – violation date March 1; $250 fine and one-day suspension, 7 strikes Sunland Park Larry Marquez – violation date Feb 29; $250 fine and one-day suspension Tampa Bay Downs Carlos Eduardo Rojas- violation date Feb 28; $250 fine and one-day suspension OTHER KEY RULINGS The TDN also publishes a roundup of key official rulings from the primary tracks within the four major racing jurisdictions of California, New York, Florida and Kentucky. Here's a primer on how each of these jurisdictions adjudicates different offenses, what they make public (or not) and where. California Track: Santa Anita Date: 03/01/2024 Licensee: Dale Brewer, owner Explainer: Owner Dale Brewer, having satisfied a financial complaint filed by Farrier Kyle Baze for $750.00, is restored to good standing and California Horse Racing Board LATS Ruling #175 dated May 04, 2014, is set aside. Track: Santa Anita Date: 03/01/2024 Licensee: Armando Ayuso, jockey Penalty: Three-day suspension Violation: Careless riding Explainer: Jockey Armando Ayuso, who rode Takes Three in the tenth race at Santa Anita Park on February 25, 2024, is suspended for 3 racing days (March 8, 9, and 10, 2024) for crossing over without sufficient clearance going into the first turn, causing interference resulting in the disqualification of his mount from first to second; a violation of California Horse Racing Board rule #1699 (Riding Rules-careless riding). Track: Santa Anita Date: 03/03/2024 Licensee: Debbie Winick, trainer Penalty: $500 fine Violation: Prohibited use of an electro-magnetic blanket on race day Explainer: Having violated the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority Rule #2271 (Prohibited Practices) Trainer Debbie Winick, who was scheduled to run Ghostly Act in the fourth race at Santa Anita Park on January 26, 2024, is fined $500.00 for prohibited use of an electro-magnetic blanket on race day, necessitating a late declaration. The post Weekly Stewards and Commissions Rulings, Feb. 27 – Mar. 4 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The GII Fountain of Youth S. may have received a few key scratches that diminished the overall quality of the field, but Danny Gargan won't let that take anything away from the victory earned by his trainee Dornoch (Good Magic). As this week's Green Group Guest of the Week on the TDN Writers' Room podcast presented by Keeneland, Gargan recapped Saturday's Fountain of Youth score and made a case for why we still haven't seen the best from Dornoch. “We've just gotta get someone fast enough to get next to him,” Gargan explained. “If someone will get next to him, you're going to see a fast horse. I mean, he does explode working. But Luis [Saez] was just sitting there playing around. He'll wait on competition because he wants to play. He's a big boy and wants the competition.” While the goal was originally for Dornoch to get some experience coming from behind horses, the game plan changed after a late scratch from Todd Pletcher trainee Speak Easy (Constitution), who got loose behind the gate. Gargan had to break out his running shoes to get to Saez before the horses started loading. “Right where the stand is where they do the interviews and they're on TV, I ran down to the track where the horses walk on and Luis was right around that area. We had to have a conversation again, but he knew what we wanted at that stage. He's a pretty smart kid…I had to change our game plan completely because I didn't want to be behind one of those horses and have them get in our way. So we went ahead and decided to just go to the lead.” The plan was a success as Dornoch, who is a full-brother to last year's GI Kentucky Derby winner Mage, wired a field of five and earned 50 points on the road to the Kentucky Derby. Gargan has said that he is considering either the GI Florida Derby or the GI Blue Grass S. for the colt's next start. On the show, he reported that he's leaning toward the Blue Grass, but should have a final decision at some point later next week. Until then, he plans to soak up the experience of the Derby trail. A native of Louisville, Gargan has been to the Kentucky Derby once before in 2019 with Tax (Arch), who finished fourteenth, but this time around he said his outlook is a bit different. “We're just going to enjoy where we're at right now,” Gargan said. “We're lucky enough that we didn't have to run that hard to get the points. We're already probably in the race. I believe we have a horse that, if we get him in the gate on the first Saturday in May, he'd have a chance to win it. So it's a totally different ballpark and it's a fun thing to be a part of. Hopefully we get lucky and we're there.” Elsewhere on the podcast, which is sponsored by Coolmore's Epicenter, WinStar Farm's Global Campaign, the Pennsylvania Horse Breeders Association, 1/ST Racing, West Point Thoroughbreds and XBTV.com, the team of Randy Moss, Zoe Cadman and T.D. Thornton reviewed all the major Kentucky Derby and Oaks prep races from coast to coast and questioned the implications the many scratches might have had on the weekend's results. They also took a look at the new Tapeta track at Santa Anita, as well as the announcement of 1/ST's new racing series and the GI Preakness S. purse increase. Click here to watch the show. Click here for the audio-only version. The post Danny Gargan Joins the TDN Writers’ Room appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

If the trainers of grade 1 winners Marketsegmentation and Aspen Grove were hoping for a soft return spot from off the bench, the Tampa Bay Downs racing office had other plans.View the full article

The annual meeting of the Association of Racing Commissioners International convened today in Columbus, Ohio, in the midst of an evolving regulatory structure for Thoroughbred racing and great uncertainty for what the future may hold.View the full article