Wandering Eyes

What Randwick Races Where Royal Randwick Racecourse – Alison Rd, Randwick NSW 2031 When Saturday, December 30, 2023 First Race 12:30pm AEDT Visit Dabble Metro racing heads to Randwick on Saturday afternoon for an ultra-competitive 10-race program. The rail is out +3m the entire circuit, and although the track is currently rated a Soft 6 at the time of writing, we anticipate an upgrade into the Good range with conditions expected to improve leading into the weekend. The opening event is scheduled to get underway at 12:30pm AEDT. Best Bet at Randwick: Parkour After making his debut at Ballarat on December 9, Parkour returns to Sydney. Although the son of Extreme Choice was defeat by 3.5 lengths, we were impressed with what we saw from the two-year-old. He swung into the home stretch from near-last when the whips were cracking and was able make a sustained run to the wire to finish runner-up. James Cummings elects to head back to Sydney with his colt, and with Jamie Kah happy to make the trip to keep the mount, we’re taking that as a strong guide that Parkour has plenty of ability. Best Bet Race 1 – #1 Parkour (8) 2yo Colt | T: James Cummings | J: Jamie Kah (58kg) +180 with PlayUp Next Best at Randwick: Louisville Louisville is testing the patience of punters after suffering defeat as favourite in his last two appearances. He’s been struggling to make up the ground over 1400m, and now with the son of Redwood finally stretching out to the 1600m, we’re convinced that this guy is ready to peak fourth-up into the campaign. Tommy Berry has the assignment to get cover from barrier eight, but if he does, watch for Louisville to be storming down the centre of the course. Next Best Race 6 – #7 Louisville (8) 5yo Gelding | T: Chris Waller | J: Tommy Berry (57.5kg) +250 with Neds Best Value at Randwick: Lady Of Luxury After a luckless first-up effort, Lady Of Luxury represents terrific each-way value with top online bookmakers in this BM78 contest. She was bolting up towards the rear of the field at this course and distance on resumption but found nothing but backsides at a crucial stage. The six-year-old mare has a strong second-up profile, and with barrier one giving Adam Hyeronimus an opportunity to ride with more vigour at the jump, Lady Of Luxury could find herself in the box seat when the race goes on. Best Value Race 9 – #2 Lady Of Luxury (1) 6yo Mare | T: Bjorn Baker | J: Adam Hyeronimus (61kg) +1200 with Bet365 Saturday quaddie tips for Randwick Randwick quadrella selections Saturday, December 30, 2023 1-3-4 2-4-5-8 2-5-7-11-16 1-3-6-8-11 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article

While there has been plenty of racing action on show, it’s a couple of first starters at Cambridge Raceway’s meeting that catch the eye Friday night. Pukekohe trainers Logan Hollis and Shane Robertson have three runners engaged with Papenhuyzen, also driven by Hollis, making her debut in Race 2 at 6:11pm. “She qualified back in June then spelled and has come back and gone two good workouts at Pukekohe” says Hollis “She’s a big filly with maturing to do but from the good draw if she goes out and gets everything right she should be an each way chance.” Hollis and Robertson next send out Bet West with Nate Delaney driving in Race 3, the Happy New Year from Woodlands Stud Mobile Pace Junior Drivers Race over 2200m. The gelding ran a bold 3rd behind Always B Stunning here on the 21st December with a strong late finishing run. “He is honest and if the speed is on he will go another good race” says Hollis. The pair’s final runner is The Artful Gambler driven by Sailesh Abernethy in Race 6, the Off The Track Food And Bev Mobile Pace over 2200m. “He went a great race last week and should be an each way chance tonight despite drawing wide” say Hollis. Also contesting Race 6 is the Brent Mangos trained first starter Justcallmemiki, a 2 year old Alwaysbmiki colt out of the well performed mare Alchemist. Driven by Maurice McKendry, the colt starts from barrier 3 and Mangos expects he will go a good race. “Although he hasn’t had a workout this time in, he had a handful of workouts and qualified earlier in the year and is a very forward horse” says Mangos “His work has been very good and he should be competitive in this field.” Amongst tonight’s fields there’s also an International Junior Driver having their New Zealand race debut. David Grundmann, a 23 year old from Sweden and winner of 38 races in his home country, steps off the plane and straight into the sulky driving Play Footsie in Race 1 for employer Jay Abernethy. “We have had other International drivers work for us and we have a number of horses in the coming year who will be eligible for penalty free and concession races” says Abernethy “David comes with good reports from Sweden and we’re looking forward to working with him.” Racing gets underway at 5:43pm Friday night. View the full article

What Morphettville Races Where Morphettville Racecourse – 79 Morphett Rd, Morphettville, SA 5043 When Saturday, December 30, 2023 First Race 12:27pm ACDT Visit Dabble Metropolitan racing returns to Morphettville in South Australia with nine races set down for decision on Saturday afternoon. Competitive fields are the theme of the day, with no black-type affairs scheduled. The track has come up a Good 4, with the rail out 13m from the 1200m to the winning post and out 10m the remainder, history says it may be advantageous to be up on speed. Action from the City of Churches commences at 12:27pm ACST. Best Bet at Morphettville: Zebella Zeblla was only nosed out late when returning with a narrow runner-up effort at the Morphettville 1100m, when her lack of race fitness proved detrimental on a Heavy surface. With the run under her belt and getting back onto firmer ground on Saturday, it serves as a perfect recipe for success. The Zebedee mare will look to land outside expected race leader Chameleon Choice, where Kayla Crowther will have the chance to push the ‘go’ button when she deems fit. When asked to quicken, we anticipate Zebella will put this race away within a couple of strides and bring up an overdue win. Best Bet Race 7 – #8 Zebella (5) 4yo Mare | T: Phillip Stokes | J: Kayla Crowther (55.5kg) +250 with Picklebet Next Best at Morphettville: Wakanjeja Wakenjeja strung together three impressive victories before stepping up to Listed company, where he was far from disgraced on a Heavy 8 on December 9. She chased home the likes of Struck By and Morvada on that day, and considering this is much easier, she looks perfectly placed. The Impending mare gains a 3kg weight advantage on race favourite Press Down, the same opponent she easily disposed of two runs back. She draws to stalk Press Down throughout with the pair drawn next to one another, and if Wakanjeja is anywhere near her best, she should prove too tough to hold out once again. Next Best Race 3 – #5 Wakanjeja (4) 4yo Mare | T: Phillip Stokes | J: Kayla Crowther (56kg) +210 with Betfair Best Value at Morphettville: Sous Les Nuages The Matt Cumani-trained Sous Les Nuages has returned in fine form this campaign, winning at Mortlake first-up before finishing down the field in a much harder race than this at Caulfield. The son of Holy Roman Emperor was last seen finishing third, beaten 3.5 lengths behind Glentaneous and Speranzoso, with both of those runners coming out and winning their next start in arrogant fashion. He draws to gain a perfect run in transit from barrier one, and if Callan Murray can get Sous Les Nuages off the fence at the right time, we’re confident he can outstay his rivals at odds with the top horse racing bookmakers. Best Value Race 6 – #4 Sous Les Nuages (1) 7yo Gelding | T: Matt Cumani | J: Callan Murray (58.5kg) +850 with Dabble Saturday quaddie tips for Morphettville Morphettville quadrella selections Saturday, November 25, 2023 1-2-3-4-6-7 4-8 1-2-3-7 1-2-6-7-9 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article

What Moonee Valley Races Where Moonee Valley Racecourse – 1 McPherson St, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039 When Saturday, December 30, 2023 First Race 12:15pm AEDT Visit Dabble For a second straight Saturday, metropolitan racing in Victoria heads to Moonee Valley, where another 10-race meeting awaits. Despite no Group/Listed races scheduled, we’re set for a competitive day of racing on a track rated a Good 4. The rail will stick in the true position for the program set to get underway at 12:15pm AEDT. Best Bet at Moonee Valley: Dunkel The Patrick Payne-trained Dunkel returned in fine enough form with a runner-up effort at Caulfield behind Let’srollthedice in a slowly run affair. The four-year-old son of Dundeel was forced to give his rivals 7kgs on that day over 1800m, and despite still giving his rivals weight on Saturday, the step up to the 2040m second-up looks to suit him perfectly. With the likes of Tycoon Bec, Grand Promenade and Independent Road all looking to hold a prominent position, the race should be run at a genuine enough clip for Dunkel to strike. Billy Egan will have the Group 1 SA Derby (2500m) winner settled at the rear, but with a sharp turn of foot, Dunkel should prove too hard to hold out. Best Bet Race 5 – #1 Dunkel (1) 4yo Gelding | T: Patrick Payne | J: Billy Egan (61kg) +140 with Picklebet Next Best at Moonee Valley: Piaggio Greg Eurell’s Piaggio was a smart Caulfield winner on December 16 and looks set to continue his fine form this campaign when he returns to Moonee Valley on Saturday. He has not finished in the top three in two starts at The Valley, but the son of Vespa looks to have returned this campaign in fine form. He finished two lengths off Toronto Terrier first-up at Sandown before his on-pace win at Caulfield. From barrier six, we expect Celine Gaudray to use her 1.5kg claim to her advantage and have Piaggio either leading the field or settled outside the lead throughout. From there, the pair can control proceedings once again and ultimately prove too tough for their rivals. Next Best Race 6 – #6 Piaggio (6) 4yo Gelding | T: Greg Eurell | J: Celine Gaudray (a1.5) (55.5kg) +320 with Dabble Best Value at Moonee Valley: Berry Bubbly Berry Bubbly was a dominant Moonee Valley 955m winner on November 24, and despite being five weeks between runs, the Redoute’s Choice mare looks to present great value with top horse racing bookmakers. The four-year-old mare managed to hold a prominent position throughout on that occasion and managed to keep a solid margin on her rivals. From barrier two, we expect the plan to be simple, with Carleen Hefel on board claiming 1.5kg. The pair should look to hold the rail and control proceedings throughout, and if Berry Bubbly can repeat her last start effort, it should be enough to see her salute at the track for the third time. Best Value Race 2 – #1 Berry Bubbly (2) 4yo Mare | T: Robbie Griffiths & Mathew de Kock | J: Carleen Hefel (a1.5) (61.5kg) +800 with Neds Saturday quaddie tips for Moonee Valley races Moonee Valley quadrella selections Saturday, December 30, 2023 1-3-5-8 4-7-8-10-11-12 5-6-10 2-6-9 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article

by Michael Guerin New Zealand’s best pacer has been handed an almost ideal return to the scene of his greatest win on Sunday. Akuta returns to Alexandra Park for the first time since winning the Auckland Cup in May and will be a hot favourite for the $60,000 Lincoln Farms Franklin Cup at the twilight meeting. Akuta hasn’t raced since being surprisingly beaten in the NZ Free-For-All at Addington on November 17 and was originally scheduled to race at Invercargill last Friday. But he instead comes north for one race before jumping on a plane to Australia on January 10 for his first campaign there. While he faces a 30m backmark in Sunday’s Cup over 2700m his only two proven open class rivals, Allamericanlover and Old Town Road, are both off 15m handicaps, while most of the front line horses are more proven in the intermediate grade rather than being open class regulars. Also on that 15m mark is Akuta’s stablemate Don’t Stop Dreaming who is stepping into open class on his last day as a three-year-old before he joins Akuta on his Australian trip. The night’s open class trot, the $50,000 Majestic Floats Greenlane Cup pits defending champion Resolve against her last-start conqueror in Dream Of You. In a rarity one of the highlights of the meeting will be the $50,000 Box Seat Trot Final, which while only for R41-58 trotters has drawn 17 acceptors, a rare chance for the No.17 saddlecloth to get dusted off at Alexandra Park. View the full article

Horse Racing on Thursday, December 28 will feature seven 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 Gosford. Thursday Horse Racing Tips – December 28, 2023 Gosford Racing Tips Best Horse Racing Bets For December 28, 2023 Place these horse racing bets in a multi for $18.46 odds return: Thursday, December 28, 2023 Gosford – Race 1 #6 Concello Gosford – Race 5 #3 Royal Tribute Mornington – Race 7 #4 Scream Orange – Race 1 #2 Four O’clock Knock | Copy this bet straight to your betslip As always there a plenty of promotions available for Australian racing fans, check out all the top online bookmakers to see what daily promotions they have. If you are looking for a new bookmaker for the horse racing taking place on December 28, 2023 check out our guide to the best online racing betting sites. More horse racing tips View the full article

Top-tier bookmakers have rolled out an enticing lineup of racing specials slated for Thursday, December 23. 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 December 28, 2023, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions 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 Trifectas by 10% with new Daily Trifecta Boosts. Check Vault for eligibility. Limits may apply. 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, December 28, 2023. 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

John Size’s Ensued is the early front runner, but Frankie Lor has yet to show off his blue bloodView the full article

The betting public may have somewhat overlooked Daddysruby at 6-1 odds in the Dec. 26 La Brea Stakes (G1) at Santa Anita, but her success was not a surprise to those who spotted racing promise from the California-bred Frac Daddy filly in January.View the full article

International standout jockey Oisin Murphy will begin riding at Gulfstream Park Dec. 28 with goals of gaining experience in dirt racing while aiming for a mount in the Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes (G1) Jan. 27 at the South Florida track.View the full article

The New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association announced Dec. 27 the results of its 2023 election for president and board of directors. Tina Marie Bond, who previously served as co-vice president, was elected to her first term as president. View the full article

Tina Marie Bond, who previously served as co-vice president of the organization, has been elected to her first term as president of the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association. “I am honored to be chosen as the next president of NYTHA,” said Bond. “It is an important time for our industry and the future of horse racing. I look forward to working with NYRA and the New York breeders to continue the great work of keeping New York racing at the top of our industry. We have the best owners, the best trainers, the best employees, and soon we will have the best facilities. I want to thank Joe Appelbaum and our past board members for all of their work and support. And I want to congratulate our new board–I look forward to working with all of you.” Also in NYTHA election results released Wednesday, owner/directors to the board are: Tom Bellhouse, Dan Collins, Sanford Goldfarb, Dr. Jennifer White, Aron Yagoda, and alternate Andrew Aaron. Trainer/Trainer-Owner directors are: Jena Antonucci, David Donk, David Duggan, James Ferraro, John Terranova, and alternate Linda Rice. “I'd like to recognize everyone who put themselves out there to run for a position,” said outgoing NYTHA president Joe Appelbaum. “NYTHA's strength is in our community and the more that participate, the better. Good luck to the incoming board, they are going to need our support.” The post Tina Bond Elected NYTHA President appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

by Jonny Turner Nathan Williamson saved one of his best for last as Sand Wave capped an outstanding 2023 for his trainer with his big win in the Gore Cup yesterday. The pacer overcame a 30m back mark to seal yet another win in the Southland trainers’ premiership for Williamson with his outstanding fresh-up victory. Previously placed at Group One level, Williamson was thrilled Sand Wave was able to stamp his class in the Gore Cup after more than nine months away from racing. “He’s genuine, a good tempo always suits him and once there’s a bit of tempo in the race, the cream rises,” the trainer-driver said. “He’s a game wee horse, I’m thrilled to get him back into winning form.” The Gore track was lightning-quick yesterday with an incredible tally of five track records broken. Many of the new marks were set by horses racing up on the pace, proving impossible to catch. Overcoming a 30m back mark under yesterday’s conditions only made Sand Wave’s win even more impressive. Though some excellent manoeuvering in the middle stages from Williamson certainly helped the horse’s cause. “It worked out good; we ended up on the back of the right one, and we got dragged around them and then managed to take a sit on the back of Captain Tom.” “So I was happy with where we positioned up, but still it’s a big ask in obviously a track record time.” In winning, Williamson sealed a two-win margin in the 2023 Southland trainers’ premiership over Craig Ferguson. Ferguson produced Da Vinci to win yesterday’s three-year-old Cardrona Distillery Stakes. Williamson was full of admiration for his rival after bagging another Southland premiership title, as well as praising his staff, owners, and wife, Katie. “Craig and I get on well; I’m sure we’ll have a couple of beers over the Christmas break on it.” “I’m just as proud of Craig and what he’s achieved this year, I mean he’s done a sterling job.” “His strike-rate is second to none, and it would have been great to see him win it.” “But you just kind of win as many as you can, so I’m thrilled to do it again and really rapt for the stable.” “Obviously, Katie too behind the scenes there and everyone like that; it’s a big team effort.” The Gore Trotting Cup went to a trotter formerly trained by Williamson in Andy Hall. The seven-year-old joined the Robert and Jenna Dunn camp in the spring, and he capped consistent form when prevailing in a close finish. View the full article

by Mike Love West Melton trainer Margo Nyhan will team up with partner Peter Davis, presenting five runners on day two of the Westport circuit today. After a testing track on day one, Davis is hoping for a smoother ride in the sulky as he drives four of their five runners. “We think the track played a role in how some of them went on the first day. The track was a bit worse than we would have expected. The weather has been good since, so we are hoping for better.” In race 2 Ifyoucouldcwhatic ($15.00FF) moves to the unruly after not handling the track on day one. “He’s not mentally there yet. But it wouldn’t surprise me if he came out and won. He’s a horse with some ability, but whether we see it today I’m not so sure. But will be one to follow. We put him on the unruly just to help him get away. The trip away will hopefully help him.” Race 3 Kink ($5.00FF) lands a sweet draw of one, and will be looking to improve quickly from his pacing debut effort on the first day. The converted Love You pacer won three races as a trotter earlier this year for Nyhan and Davis. “He’s only had the hopples on about seven times. He was just not trotting as good as he can. But Sean McCaffrey, who had him before us, called me one day and said before you sack the horse, try him with the hopples. We threw the hopples on a couple of weeks ago, and he qualified only the third time wearing them. He is a risk today, but going forward he will win a few as a pacer.” Race 4 has a two pronged attack for Nyhan and Davis, with My Sweet Bella Rose ($5.00FF) and Honest Lies ($14.00FF). My Sweet Bella Rose found the line well on the first day and will be looking to finish closer today. Robbie Close will reunite with the Sweet Lou filly again today. “She went really good the first day. Robbie (Close) was really happy with her, and I think she will be the best chance of ours today.” Honest Lies in the same race however will require more luck from his wider draw, although Davis was pleased with the Terror To Love’s debut effort on the first day. “It was only his third time off the place. He’s more of a high speed horse. So an all weather track may be what will help him. His run on the first day was good, and he will be another one to follow going forward.” Rounding out their chances is first day winner Here Comes Jane ($16.00FF) in race 5. Though Davis is weary of the big step up from maidens to take on a much deeper field than she beat on the first day. “It’s a big step up. But she has trained better than a maiden. She has manners and is definitely a first four chance.” Race one gets underway at 12:19pm. View the full article

What Cranbourne Races Where Cranbourne Turf Club – 50 Grant St, Cranbourne VIC 3977 When Friday, December 29, 2023 First Race 5:40pm AEDT Visit Dabble Racing returns to Cranbourne under lights on Friday evening, where a competitive eight-race meeting awaits punters. A perfect summer’s night for racing is forecast, and despite the track coming up a Soft 6 at the time of acceptances, we expect to be on a Soft 5, bordering on a Good 4 come race one on Friday night. The rail comes out 7m the entire circuit, which could favour those settled close to the speed. Action from Cranbourne is set to commence at 5:40pm AEDT. Best Bet at Cranbourne: Jenny The Beaver Ben O’Farrell’s Jenny The Beaver broke her maiden in impressive fashion at Werribee on December 10, and she looks set to go on with the job on Friday night. The Jimmy Creed mare finished strongly over 2200m to win by a length, putting a further six-lengths on the third-placed horse to suggest she was worth sticking with. The way she hit the line suggests 2580m should be no issue, and with Billy Egan sticking on board from barrier two, will gain every opportunity to see out the trip. Jenny The Beaver will need a touch of luck at some stage, but if the gaps come at the right time, she should be winning against this lot at a good value with the top horse racing bookmakers. Best Bet Race 5 – #2 Jenny The Beaver (2) 4yo Mare | T: Ben O’Farrell | J: Billy Egan (57kg) $4.80 with Neds Next Best at Cranbourne: She Flys She Flys has begun her career in smart enough fashion to suggest her third career start can be a winning one. She was a touch unlucky on debut at Bendigo, before finding one better at Geelong last time out on December 15. The Eminent filly draws to gain a beautiful run in transit from barrier five under Daniel Stackhouse, where the pair can stalk the speed throughout from the one-one. With even luck on the home turn, She Flys should be clearing maiden ranks. Next Best Race 4 – #12 She Flys (5) 3yo Filly | T: Ben, Will & JD Hayes | J: Daniel Stackhouse (56kg) $3.40 with Picklebet Next Best Again at Cranbourne: Master Right The Annabel Neasham-trained Master Right has returned with consecutive runner-up efforts at Kembla Grange and then at Sandown on December 6. The five-year-old gelding has hit the line with great intent at both runs over 1200m and 1400m, so the step up to the mile third-up looks perfect. Thomas Stockdale will look to hold a midfield position with cover having drawn barrier 12, and with a nice tow into the race, Master Right has the runs on the board to suggest he should be winning on Friday. Next Best Again Race 7 – #4 Master Right (12) 5yo Gelding | T: Annabel Neasham | J: Thomas Stockdale (59kg) $5.00 with Dabble Friday quaddie tips for Cranbourne races Cranbourne quadrella selections Friday, December 29, 2023 1-2 3-4-6-10 1-3-4 2-6-10-11 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article

Today we'll consider some of the sires standing between $10,001 and $19,999. For a long time, I called this the Lookin At Lucky zone. But don't worry, we won't be deploring his neglect yet again: he's staying in Chile, where they evidently appreciate him rather more. Plenty of horses in this bracket have recently relinquished their brief window of commercial opportunity, and are now hanging around to discover whether they might join the very small group whose first runners generate a fresh vogue. Even with the newcomers out of the equation–we gave them a separate assessment, to open the series–we're left with three groups still untested on the track: those expecting their first foals; those who have just sold their first weanlings; and those actually about to dip a toe in the water with their first runners. Pending that crossroads, many find themselves somewhat adrift against a bunch of older sires who have survived that test. These fit this tier either because they are losing stature or, more cheerfully, because they have carved out a viable niche as an affordable source of winners. First the young guns. Of those who sent their first yearlings to auction this year, the ones who really nailed it, unsurprisingly, vaunted the kind of speed that pinhookers crave. VOLATILE burned brightly in a light career, not seen again after confirming his Grade I caliber against a small but select field in the Vanderbilt. His 112 Beyer in the Aristides S. (1:07.57) was the highest of 2020 and duly secured 181 mares the following spring. Himself an $850,000 yearling, with a GI Test/GI Ballerina winner as granddam, his $125,431 average was boosted by a spectacular $1.15 million docket for a Book 1 filly at Keeneland in September. Nudged back up to $15,000 (from $12,500), Volatile has three hefty books behind him and will be the horse to beat for the freshman title next year. But not even his median yield of 4.3 on his opening fee ($75,000/ $17,500) could match that of COMPLEXITY, whose $65,000 median (never mind his average $90,400!) multiplied his $12,500 fee by 5.2. Complexity started with some serious volume by the restrained standards of his farm, and then followed through with another three-figure book in his second season. He was clearly in the same vicinity as Volatile as a mature horse (110 Beyer in the GII Kelso) but was the more accomplished juvenile, wiring a Saratoga maiden (90 Beyer) before a decisive success in the GI Champagne S. on his second start. His half-sister ran second in the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies, so their unraced dam is obviously channelling the good stuff. VEKOMA is meanwhile working the Spendthrift system with remarkable efficiency, having started out (at $20,000) with staggering volume, entertaining at least 200 mares in each of his first three seasons. This year he processed 102 of his first yearlings at $98,432, albeit was unsurprisingly stretched somewhat thinner by a median of $60,000. Though confined to eight starts across three seasons, he was class from beginning to end, posting big numbers for his Grade I double in the Carter and Met Mile. From a stallion-producing family, he's a horse I've liked all the way through and everything is in place for him to look after many (albeit probably not all!) of his (very many!) clients at $15,000. Knicks Go | Sarah Andrew Among those in this intake offering rather more stretch, one or two suffered horrible yearling medians relative to conception fee. But one who made a solid start off $12,500 was Bolt d'Oro's half-brother GLOBAL CAMPAIGN: 74 yearlings sold at $63,195 (median $43,500). This was a more talented animal than generally appreciated and I can see him proving himself a bargain gateway to Curlin. A closer look at his family shows that it tends to produce faster types than are associated with the seeding sires, and Global Campaign's first crop of 126 live foals may surprise a few people with their dash. Of those who sold their first weanlings this fall, meanwhile, the one that will sort out the sheep and the goats is KNICKS GO. No questioning his talent, it was just never quite obvious where it all came from–albeit his dam maintained stakes speed through four seasons. Those who didn't require a more familiar pedigree were delighted to see a Horse of the Year introduced at just $30,000. Well, now they can get him for half that, even though he's still nearly 18 months away from the opportunity to demonstrate whether or not he can replicate his brilliance! At this money, some people will surely want to roll the dice. Even as it is, his weanlings sold a little better than those of SILVER STATE. But it's very early days for the latter, whose pedigree in contrast elucidates all the class he manifested as a runner. A friendly clip to $15,000 should hopefully keep him in the game because this horse equipped to prove a really wholesome influence. The subsequent intake features some truly frightening books, but I will resist dwelling on that here. Suffice to say that those playing a longer game might quite like a filly by either SPEAKER'S CORNER or MYSTIC GUIDE. Both have taken an early trim at Darley, respectively to $17,500 and $12,500, and their pedigrees shout distaff influence. We'll have to see how many of the youngsters will endure even in this relatively modest tier, a few years from now. Nor does a flying start bring any guarantees, as UNION RAGS could caution them. The halving of his fee to $15,000 acknowledges the way he has faltered, having stood at $60,000 between 2018 and 2020. Trade for his latest yearlings made this further cut imperative, but he's still the same horse that so quickly came up with five Grade I winners. Hopefully he will find a little oxygen now that he has descended to more accessible altitudes. Studmate DAREDEVIL has taken his second cut since returning to the U.S., now down to $15,000, but of course it's only in 2024 that we'll get to assess the first juveniles conceived after Swiss Skydiver prompted his urgent repatriation. Their sales performance demanded a mild trim in fee, but he could easily be poised for fresh momentum. MENDELSSOHN has also taken consecutive cuts, similarly now available at $15,000. He has so far been more about quantity than quality but his supporters will hope that he can still emulate four others, standing at the same fee, who have all done admirably to create a lasting foothold in this most slippery of markets. The first of these, DIALED IN, is something of a blue-collar hero. He maintains such high volume–corralled 175 mares last spring, his 10th at stud–that it will always be hard, with the raw materials available at this level, to make his ratios “sing”. But Defunded has once again shown the caliber within his competence as his third elite scorer. Dialed In gets his work done at a fair tariff, and will keep plugging away to leave behind many of those now starting at multiples of his fee. Cairo Prince | Sarah Andrew CAIRO PRINCE has also created a sustainable brand for himself through six crops, as attested by a solid book of 129 mares last spring. A set-your-clock black-type producer throughout, he's now entering the territory where he can legitimately prove a mare–and of course he gets such a nice type, the average ($54,194) and median ($40,000) of his latest yearlings duly best among this proven quartet. MIDSHIPMAN is a true yeoman and it's typical of this business that he should have had a quieter year (by his very special standards) both on the track and in the sales ring after finally doubling his fee to $20,000 last year–due recognition for having punched above weight for so long. His lifetime stats remain ridiculous for a stallion who has largely been a four-figure cover: 47 stakes winners at 6.4 percent of named foals, nine at graded stakes level; and 101 black-type performers overall, at 13.7 percent. The trim back to $15,000 brings him back towards the reach of breeders who most appreciate just what he can do for their mares. KANTHAROS, who has really pulled himself up by his bootstraps, had another very solid year on the track. He has made the same slip in fee, reflecting a tepid book of mares last spring and a challenging yield on yearlings conceived at $30,000. But that was an experience shared by many sires exposed to a porous middle market, and the fact is that Kantharos lurks only just outside the top 10 in the 2023 general sires' list with a dozen stakes winners, including a couple at graded level. His lifetime ratio of stakes runners–11 percent of named foals–remains outstanding for a horse whose first five books were compiled in Florida at just $5,000. He sired two Grade I winners at that fee, and now has another millionaire in Grade II winner Bay Storm. The first of his two $30,000 books were juveniles this year, and we know how they will keep thriving. That guarantees Kantharos imminently entry into the top 20 active sires on lifetime earnings. All he needs to do is supplant… Lookin At Lucky! VALUE PODIUM Bronze Medal: CONNECT Curlin–Bullville Belle (Holy Bull) Lane's End $15,000 Connect | Sarah Andrew Amid all this talk about stud fees being too high, credit is overdue to Lane's End for anticipating the mood in the room. From Flightline down, the farm made 11 cuts across their 2024 roster. All were meaningful, and some nearly brutal, effectively conceding that one or two stallions were drifting into trouble and needed some decisive help. Bravo! The very opposite of burying your head in the sand, and in the present environment I hope it works out both for the farm and its clients. One stallion who can certainly benefit is Connect, restored from $25,000 to his 2021 fee of $15,000 after the crop conceived that year returned a tepid median (albeit a perfectly acceptable $45,774 average) at the yearling sales. He'd also suffered a real slump in his book last spring, down to 45 from 172 in 2022! But we're accustomed to seeing horses treated like this, once they have served their commercial purpose, and should sooner marvel at the impression he must have made with his first crop to get such a big book (up from 93 in 2021) in his fifth year at stud. Sure enough, only Gun Runner and Practical Joke banked more prizemoney as freshmen in 2021, and only Gun Runner had more winners. Unfortunately Connect did not then consolidate especially well, but he has made a timely return to form this year with eight stakes winners, three at graded level, plus a GI Kentucky Oaks third in The Alys Look. Moreover, his first-crop flagship, the juvenile Grade I winner Rattle N Roll, failed by just half a length to add another elite score in the GI Stephen Foster S. That horse was a $55,000 weanling but has now banked $1.7 million across three seasons. Connect's pedigree is not without its challenges but he's another to bring Curlin within range and had real prowess as a racehorse, a blip in the Travers his only defeat in seven starts (four triple-digit Beyers) up the grades after debut. He outkicked none other than Gun Runner in the GII Pennsylvania Derby and, while he won't be doing that again any time soon, he's actually siring winners at a higher percentage of named foals. With that bumper crop of weanlings in the pipeline, and now a lenient fee, this looks a good time to re-Connect. Silver Medal: KARAKONTIE (Jpn) Bernstein–Sun Is Up (Jpn) (Sunday Silence) Gainesway $15,000 Karakontie | Sarah Andrew How pleasing to see this undervalued stallion moving his book back up last year, up to 86 from 48. Perhaps his hour has come at last, now that the minority prepared to breed to a quality turf sire in the Bluegrass have been deprived of English Channel and Kitten's Joy. If you're enlightened enough to see the growing need for turf quality in the U.S., then you might also recognize that you don't always have to fly first class to Tattersalls. With a fifth crop on the track, Karakontie has still only had 174 starters, but seven have won graded stakes. For the second year running, moreover, he had an elite scorer in She Feels Pretty, winner of the GI Natalma S. before failing by barely half a length to overcome a wide trip in the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf. Karakontie's premier earner Princess Grace meanwhile continued to thrive in Australia, missing Group 1 scores by a neck and half a length. Even after a hike from $10,000, Karakontie is an awful lot of horse for this fee. He converted some of the most regal blood in the book–his third dam is Miesque herself–into a turn of foot that won him a Group 1 at two and then a mile Classic, before doing all he could to endear the American market in the GI Breeders' Cup Mile. Don't forget that he restores Sunday Silence to the Bluegrass through his dam, herself out of a half-sister to Kingmambo. His international pedigree and participation alike are a measure of our debt to the program that produced him. The American market has not really grasped its privilege, with this horse, but the elevation in his fee tells you everything you need to know: he's being used by people who want to breed a runner, whether in their own silks or to boost a mare. Actually, Karakontie is perfectly capable of a home run at the sales, including the $525,000 filly at Keeneland in September whose buyers will have been delighted to see her full-sister (who herself made $280,000 the previous year) win the Tepin S. last month. His lesser specimens may struggle commercially, until the environment improves, but that won't trouble those eccentrics who calculate value according to the odds of ending up with a runner. Gold Medal: MITOLE Eskendereya–Indian Miss (Indian Charlie) Spendthrift $15,000 How naïve of me to imagine that all those commercial breeders who flocked to the new sires in 2020 wanted nothing more than to land on the champion freshman of 2023. Because Mitole, as he closes in on those laurels, finds himself the only one of the four Spendthrift sires dominating this table to remain on the same fee in 2024. Mitole | Louise Reinagel Now, clearly this farm needs no help in how to make their remarkable machine run smoothly. The Spendthrift team know that Mitole was the one who took the biggest slide of the quartet, in the inevitable slackening of demand for their second crop of yearlings. But they had already ensured that these were conceived more affordably, trimming him from $25,000 in his debut season to $15,000. That was partly a concession to the Covid market, but it also offered such obvious value about a champion sprinter that he maintained the enthusiastic support of 184 mares even last spring, after topping 200 in each of his three previous seasons. In other words, the system is functioning smoothly and Mitole has played his part so well that he approaches the winning post with a narrow advantage over Maximus Mischief (my serial “gold” pick, I might add, after starting at $7,500!) by prizemoney and also a wafer-thin one by individual winners (32 from 79 starters). Whether or not he holds out, Mitole is the only one of the four to have a graded stakes scorer–and so joins Flameaway and Solomini in what has been a weirdly unproductive group, by that measure-in GIII Pocahontas S. winner/GI Alcibiades runner-up V V's Dream. The precocious Maximus Mischief has shown a lot more of his hand (77 starters from 122 named foals) and remember that Mitole (79 from 145) himself only squeezed in a single start at two, in late November. It was as a 4-year-old that he racked up his four Grade Is–including that resonant Met Mile/Breeders' Cup Sprint double, and a stakes record at the intermediate distance in the Forego. So it seems fair to suggest that he has only just got started. By now Mitole has surely stifled misgivings about his sire, himself after all a brilliant performer and a conduit of corresponding genes. Eskendereya's fifth dam is Cosmah, and doubles up her half-sister's son Northern Dancer top and bottom. It was presumably his unfashionable sire that confined Mitole to $20,000 as a yearling–but then along came kid brother Hot Rod Charlie (Oxbow), himself a $17,000 short yearling, to reiterate the merit of a family cultivated by the late Edward A. Cox Jr. Hot Rod Charlie has now followed Eskendereya to Japan, where they have made a habit of exposing crass commercial trends in Kentucky. But here's a horse making the family assets work even in this less imaginative environment, and his debut at the 2-year-old sales–behind only Omaha Beach in the key freshman medians–suggest that Mitole will be taking out a long lease on the attention of pinhookers. Sires In The Teens: Breeder Selections Aidan O'Meara, Stonehaven Steadings Aidan O'Meara | Keeneland Gold Medal: Volatile One of the best angles for success in the commercial breeding field is identifying a future leading stallion in the early stages and this sometimes requires taking a leap of faith breeding when their first runners are about to run. Volatile has been the breakout star at the yearling sales this year, mirroring his sire's first crop results a few years back. He's a beautifully built horse himself and passed his physique on with remarkable consistency. He's been very well supported by breeders and will have plenty of ammo in his first few crops to give him every opportunity. If his offspring have legitimate ability, he will skyrocket up the stallion ranks and $15,000 will look like the deal of the decade. Silver Medal: Connect The crop of 2021 has all been overshadowed by Gun Runner's incredible achievements, but Connect has been quietly developing a very solid career for himself. He has shown consistency with three graded stakes winners again this year and a strong supporting cast of stakes horses. He has also shown the ability to get the all-important high-class horse with Rattle N Roll. He measures well in all statistical categories and looks to be a stallion that can establish himself long term in the mold of a Midshipman/First Samurai/Blame type. Bronze Medal: Audible The Spendthrift quartet has garnered most of the attention from this year's freshmen and rightly so but one horse is simmering just below these and that horse is Audible. His 14% stakes horses with his first 2-year-olds cannot be ignored and his own racing career suggests there is more improvement to be had as they mature. He's a beautiful horse that can throw the right kind as witnessed by his first crop of yearlings. $15,000 is very intriguing for a horse with some potential future upswing and worst-case scenario has shown plenty of ability for longer term success at this price point. Peter O'Callaghan, Woods Edge Farm Peter O'Callaghan | Fasig-Tipton Gold Medal: Midshipman This stallion has been very good to us both on the track and in the sales ring. We recently bred first-time-out 2-year-old winner Midshipman's Dance; pinhooked Grade II winner Special Reserve; bred Leucothea and co-bred Amidst Waves, both of whom are multiple stakes winning 2-year-olds. He is a very consistent and well-respected sire, standing for an affordable $15,000. You can sell one well at the sales and he produces winners every weekend at the track. Silver Medal: Mitole Obviously a brilliant racehorse and looks to be turning out some good 2-year-old winners this second half of the year. Must be a horse worth a punt at $15,000. We are breeding to him again this year. Bronze Medal: Vekoma A brilliant racehorse, a high class 2-year-old who trained on, winning some high-profile races in the GII Bluegrass S. going two turns at three. Then winning the GI Carter H. and GI Met Mile at four in impressive fashion. Furthermore, he is a very well-bred son of Candy Ride (Arg), out of the GISW Speightstown mare Mona De Momma from the family of Mr. Greeley. He is a good-looking horse who seems to sire plenty of good-looking stock. We have bred to him each year and have bought foals by him in each crop, he has not let us down so far. I think he is a horse with a legitimate shot to be a sire standing at an affordable fee of $15,000. The post Value Sires For 2024, Part 4: Into The Teens appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

As 2023 draws to a close, the TDN is asking industry members to name their favorite moment of the year. Send yours to suefinley@thetdn.com Watching my favorite horse Caravel win [the GI Jaipur S.] live on Belmont S. Day. The post What Was Your Favorite Moment of 2023: Madeline Rowland appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The regal bloodlines of Shin Emperor and Gonbade Qabus stand out among the 2-year-olds set for the Dec. 28 Hopeful Stakes (G1) at Nakayama Racecourse.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 the key rulings from the last week, trainer Bonnie Lucas was suspended seven days after a post-race Xylazine positive in a sample taken from Tankinator, who was injured and vanned off in a race at Parx Racing on Nov. 7. Xylazine is a Class B controlled medication under HISA that can be used to sedate racehorses. It remains unclear whether Tankinator was euthanized as a result of his injuries sustained that day. The 5-year-old gelding was having his first race for Lucas, having been claimed out of the Webster Gayle barn on Oct. 21. In a post-race sample taken Oct. 21, Tankinator tested positive for the corticosteroid Dexamethasone, a controlled medication commonly used as an anti-inflammatory. 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 Date: 11/13/2023 Licensee: Librado Barocio, trainer Penalty: A fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone—Controlled Medication (Class C)—in a sample taken from Sugar Fish. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 11/13/2023 Licensee: Librado Barocio, trainer Penalty: Treated as 1 violation with Sugar Fish under 09/08/23 HISA Guidance. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone—Controlled Medication (Class C)—in a sample taken from Barristan the Bold. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 11/08/2023 Licensee: Ilmar Loaiza, 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. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Dexamethasone—Controlled Medication (Class C)—in a sample taken from Roseinthesky, who finished second at Finger Lakes on 11/8/23. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 11/07/2023 Licensee: Bonnie Lucas, trainer Penalty: 7-day period of Ineligibility, beginning on December 27, 2023; 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 Xylazine—Controlled Medication (Class B)—in a sample taken from Tankinator, who was pulled up and vanned off in a race at Parx Racing on 11/7/23. This was a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 09/28/2023 Licensee: Terry Eoff, 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. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Methocarbomal—Controlled Medications (Class C)—in a sample taken from Kentucky Dawn, who finished second at Remington Park on 9/28/23. 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: 12/08/2023 Licensee: Victor Barboza, 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, Long Range Toddy. This is also a possible violation of Rule 4222—Intra-Articular Injections Within Seven (7) Days of Timed and Reported Workout. Date: 10/30/2023 Licensee: Robert Fiesman, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone—Controlled Medication (Class C)—in a sample taken from Little Four, who was euthanized after breaking down in a race at Mahoning Valley on 10/30/23, according to Equibase. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 10/06/2023 Licensee: Luis Mendez, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Methocarbamol—Controlled Medication (Class C)—in a sample taken from Big Celebration, who finished third at Santa Anita on 10/6/23. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Violations of Crop Rule One important note: HISA's whip use limit is restricted to six strikes during a race. Mahoning Valley Erik Barbaran – violation date Dec 19; $250 fine, eight-day suspension, no further details of ruling 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. The following was taken from the ARCI's “recent rulings” webpage, which isn't always updated contemporaneously. FLORIDA Track: Gulfstream Park Date: 12/6/2023 Licensee: Alexis Camano, trainer Penalty: suspended license Violation: Unpaid financial obligations Explainer: FINAL ORDER # 2022-051619 = F.S. VIOLATION – FINANCIAL OBLIGATION TO TEIGLAND, FRANKLIN, & BROKKEN, D.V.M.'S, INC. – LICENSE SUSPENDED BEGINNING 12/6/2023 FOR A PERIOD EXTENDING UNTIL ALL OUTSTANDING FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS HAVE BEEN FULLY SATISFIED. Track: Gulfstream Park Date: 12/6/2023 Licensee: Aubrey Maragh, trainer Penalty: 15-day suspension, $1.500 fine Violation: Medication violation Explainer: FINAL ORDER 2023-003854 – F.S. 550.2415 VIOLATION = 5 HYDROXYDANTROLENE. “MODAZZLE” $1500 FINE, 15 DAY SUSPENSION – DATES TO BE DETERMINED BY STEWARDS, AND RETURN OF PURSE IMPOSED Track: Gulfstream Park Date: 12/6/2023 Licensee: Andry G. Blanco, owner Penalty: suspended license Violation: Unpaid financial obligations Explainer: FINAL ORDER # 2023-046372 = F.S. VIOLATION – FINANCIAL OBLIGATION TO TEIGLAND, FRANKLIN, & BROKKEN, D.V.M.'S, INC. LICENSE SUSPENDED BEGINNING 12/6/2023 FOR A PERIOD EXTENDING UNTIL ALL OUTSTANDING FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS HAVE BEEN FULLY SATISFIED. The post Weekly Rulings: December 19-25 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The New Jersey-based lawsuit in which a group of bettors are alleging they were cheated out of their property by Bob Baffert when his betamethasone-positive trainee, Medina Spirit, crossed the finish wire first in the 2021 GI Kentucky Derby and purportedly prevented the plaintiffs from cashing winning tickets on the runner-up is on the cusp of being transferred back to a federal court in California where it was first initiated 2 1/2 years ago. In a Dec. 22 filing in United States District Court (District of New Jersey), the judge in the case ordered both sides to file letters by Jan. 15 “if either party wishes to explain why this case should NOT be transferred back to the Central District of California.” The judge explained his rationale: “This case relates entirely, or all-but-entirely, to alleged events at a 2021 horse race in Kentucky,” the judge wrote. “And this case was originally filed by the Plaintiffs in the Central District of California, before the Plaintiffs voluntarily dismissed their claims and re-filed them here. This is a case, in short, that has little, if anything, to do with New Jersey.” The original version of the suit, led by Michael Beychok, the winner of the 2012 National Horseplayers Championship, was filed in California four days after Baffert's May 9, 2021, disclosure that Medina Spirit had tested positive for betamethasone after winning the May 1 Derby. It wasn't until Aug. 22, 2023, that the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission's disqualification of Medina Spirit from the 2021 Derby–which also affirmed the elevation of runner-up Mandaloun as the official winner–was sustained after a long administrative appeals process. Baffert, plus his incorporated racing stable, were named as the defendants back in 2021, and the plaintiffs' California-filed version of the suit made it a point to note that “Venue is also proper for these claims in this Court because Defendants reside and transact their affairs and conduct business in the State of California and, specifically, through this District.” The more than 30 class members of that suit chose the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) Act as a tool to try and collect damages. In addition, they sought an order from the judge stating that Baffert must divest himself from the sport. RICO is a sweeping 1970 federal statute initially designed to combat the Mafia. But in a legal sense, it has long since lost its “organized crime” stigma. RICO today is rarely used to go after stereotypical “godfather” figures. Instead, RICO has evolved as a civil litigation component, and is most often asserted by purported victims of white-collar crimes, such as mail and wire fraud. Two months after its initial filing, the class-action complaint was withdrawn from the California federal court on July 22, 2021. One day later, an amended version of it resurfaced in New Jersey. The New Jersey complaint from July 23, 2021, alleged that, “[Baffert's] multiple and repeated acts of doping and entering horses into Thoroughbred races, including the Kentucky Derby, constituted racketeering activity.” In subsequent court documents, the plaintiffs explained why they believed New Jersey should now be the proper venue. They cited a legal precedent that involved a case in which the act of simulcasting a race into New Jersey from another state “permits the Court to exercise personal jurisdiction over it.” The plaintiffs also alleged that Baffert's purported doping fraud included his occasional starts at Monmouth Park. But as far back as September 2021, when Baffert first moved for dismissal of this lawsuit, his court filing termed that switch from California to New Jersey “blatant forum shopping” because the new venue has “no meaningful connection to the allegations raised in their Complaint.” The term “forum shopping” refers to the practice of litigants angling to get their case heard in the court thought most likely to result in a winning outcome. It is not illegal or unethical to forum shop, but judges can and do let parties know if they believe lawyers are stretching legal boundaries by trying to get their cases heard in venues that are most favorable to them. Another Baffert filing, on Jan. 12, 2022, again alleged that the plaintiffs were off base in attempting to litigate the matter in New Jersey. “The law is clear that there must be case-specific contacts with the forum state…” that filing stated. “Even if one were to accept Plaintiffs' tinfoil conspiratorial premise that Baffert engaged in a nationwide racketeering scheme to defraud individuals he never met, Plaintiffs would still have to establish that at least some of the alleged illicit conduct actually occurred in New Jersey. They have utterly failed to do so. This matter has zero connection to New Jersey and it must be dismissed.” Earlier this year, a federal judge in Kentucky dismissed a similar (but entirely separate) class-action lawsuit initiated against Baffert by a group of horseplayers who alleged negligence, breach of contract, and unjust enrichment because their losing pari-mutuel bets on the 2021 Derby also weren't honored as winners. Baffert's attorney in the New Jersey case, W. Craig Robertson III, made sure the judge in New Jersey was aware of that Kentucky dismissal when considering the motion to dismiss, which is still active and has yet to be ruled upon. “Identical to this case, the [federal complaint in Kentucky] was commenced by a purported class of aggrieved gamblers against [Baffert] asserting claims connected to pari-mutuel payouts from the 2021 Kentucky Derby,” Robertson wrote in a July 26, 2023, letter to the U. S. District Court of New Jersey. “The Western District of Kentucky dismissed those claims as a matter of law,” Robertson continued. “Specifically, the Court held that Kentucky's Rules of Racing govern all bets placed on the Kentucky Derby and because the Rules are clear that all payouts are final based on official race-day results, aggrieved gamblers have no injury at law and no viable cause of action even if race results are later altered. “Similarly here, [Baffert seeks] dismissal of the case before Your Honor due to a lack of cognizable injury, whether under the RICO statute or otherwise,” Baffert's attorney wrote. Counsel for the plaintiffs responded with their own letter to the judge Aug. 7, writing that the Kentucky decision “has no relevance or merit to the present matter” and that the “causes of action brought by the present Plaintiffs in this action are separate, distinct, and dissimilar from the claims brought by separate parties” in the dismissed Kentucky lawsuit. The post At 2 1/2-Year Mark, Bettors-Vs.-Baffert Lawsuit on Cusp of Getting Booted Back to Original Court appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

While the final of the roughly two dozen Group 1 races on the Japan Racing Association was scheduled for Thursday, the Tokyo Daishoten–the only recognized international Group 1 event and pattern race of any variety on the National Association of Racing circuit–takes place Friday afternoon at Ohi Racecourse in the Japanese capital. Under normal circumstances, the discussion of the 2000-metre dirt affair would begin and end with Ushba Tesoro (Jpn) (Orfevre {Jpn}), whose victory here 12 months ago catapulted him to future success on the world stage in the G1 Dubai World Cup. Set for a start in the GI Breeders' Cup Classic almost before he even got his picture taken at Meydan, the 6-year-old impressed in his local prep prior to departing for America in late September. He certainly didn't run a poor race at Santa Anita, as he was left entirely too much to do and wound up fifth behind White Abarrio (Race Day). It's just 55 days since a trip to the States and back again, not to mention a race in between, and he could be vulnerable. That theory might ring true no matter the competition, but Mick Fire (Jpn) (Sinister Minister) will present a stiff challenge in a race that could very well propel him to overseas targets. The 3-year-old colt is unbeaten and–really–unchallenged in seven career starts to date, all on the NAR. All but one of those starts have come at Ohi, including the Listed Japan Dirt Derby back in July, and he prepped for this with a defeat of 2023 GI Santa Anita Derby runner-up Mandarin Hero (Jpn) (Shanghai Bobby) in the Derby Grand Prix (allowance) over the course and distance Oct. 1. While dual Group 1 winner Lemon Pop (Lemon Drop Kid) swerves this event in favour of potential appearances in the Middle East over the coming months, those that finished immediately behind him in the G1 Champions Cup three weekends ago take their chances. Wilson Tesoro (Jpn) (Kitasan Black {Jpn}) flashed home strongly to finish runner-up at Chukyo, outfinishing Dura Erede (Jpn) (Duramente {Jpn}), who caused a major boilover in last year's Hopeful S., but seems to have found a home on the dirt. Bauyrzhan Murzabayev has the call. The 3-year-old King's Sword (Jpn) (Sinister Minister) is another talented dirt runner for his sire and punched his ticket to the Daishoten with an easy victory over Notturno (Jpn) (Heart's Cry {Jpn})—second in this last year–in the Listed JBC Classic over the course and distance Nov. 3. The post Ushba Tesoro No Sure Thing In Daishoten Defence appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The regal bloodlines of Shin Emperor and Gonbade Qabus stand out among the 2-year-olds set for the Dec. 28 Hopeful Stakes at Nakayama Racecourse.View the full article

Perfect in two starts, including a victory over 2000 metres already at this early stage in his career, Susumu Fujita's Shin Emperor (Fr) (Siyouni {Fr}) can well and truly stamp himself a leading contender for next year's Japanese Classics when he takes on a full field in Thursday's G1 Hopeful S. at Nakayama, the final top-level event on the JRA circuit for 2023. Bred by Ecurie des Monceaux, the chestnut is–as has been well documented–a full-brother to G1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe winner Sottsass (Fr) and was hammered down to trainer Yoshito Yahagi for a sales-topping €2.1 million at last year's Arqana August Sale in Deauville. The colt has done little to suggest his connections' lofty opinions are misguided, as he was visually impressive in taking out his maiden at first asking over 1800 metres at Tokyo Nov. 4 and he made it two-from-two with a half-length success in the G3 Kyoto Nisai S. Nov. 25, successfully stretching out to Thursday's distance. Yahagi has tabbed Bauyrzhan Murzabayev to ride. “He has a lot of potential and it's not often you get to work with a horse with a pedigree like he has, so I'm feeling the pressure,” said assistant trainer Yusaku Oka. “He's still mentally immature, but he has shown a high level of ability and with his European bloodline, I think the tough turf at Nakayama will suit him. He has a lot of power and he should be able to handle the hill in the stretch. He already experienced the trip to Kanto for his debut, so I'm not worried there. I'm hoping he'll do his best.” 2yo colt SHIN EMPEROR (Siyouni x Starlet's Sister (Galileo)) final fast ahead of Thursday's G1 2000m 2YO Hopeful Stakes Worked the Ritto slope. Still immature, floated around the first 3F then let down sweetly the last 1F Brother to SOTTSASS pic.twitter.com/mjS2orfFGy — Graham Pavey (@LongBallToNoOne) December 25, 2023 Regaleira (Jpn) (Suave Richard {Jpn}), one of two fillies taking on the boys here, graduated in a July 9 newcomers' event at Hakodate and most recently resumed with a sound third-place effort behind the talented JRHA Select Yearling Sale topper Danon Ayers Rock (Jpn) (Maurice {Jpn}) in the Listed Ivy S. at Tokyo Oct. 21. Christophe Lemaire sticks with the filly for Equinox (Jpn)'s trainer Tetsuya Kimura. Bricks and Mortar is in a good battle for second spot on the list of leading first-crop sires in Japan by progeny earnings behind Suave Richard, and Gonbade Qabus (Jpn) stands a good chance to solidify that position Thursday. The dark bay colt opened his account at first asking in a 1600-metre newcomers' contest at headquarters June 10 and was not seen for four months thereafter, returning to cause a mild upset in the G3 Saudi Arabia Royal Cup over the identical course and distance Oct. 7. He must negotiate an extra two furlongs here, but on pedigree it is clearly well within his reach. Velociraptor (Jpn) (Suave Richard {Jpn}) also brings an unblemished record into the Hopeful, having won his maiden over nine furlongs at Tokyo June 24 before adding a Sept. 23 conditions test at Hanshin over the same trip. The post Shin Emperor Has Much In His Favour In Hopeful appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Part One of BloodHorse's 2023 year-end survey.View the full article

Progeny of the late English Channel have made more than $6.8 million on grass in 2023. On Dec. 30, one of his sons, Running Bee, jumps into stakes company at Gulfstream Park to compete in the $200,000 Fort Lauderdale Stakes (G2T).View the full article