Wandering Eyes

Danny Shum craves more HKIR success with Romantic Warrior. A smile spread across the face of trainer Danny Shum and the connections of Romantic Warrior the instant the barrier draw was revealed for Sunday’s Group 1 Hong Kong Cup (2000m). Seven has been a particularly lucky number so far. “Last year in the Hong Kong Cup we drew seven. Also in the Cox Plate, we drew seven.” said owner Peter Lau, who had picked the slot at random at the ceremony in Sha Tin’s parade ring. Romantic Warrior has already been the horse of both Shum and Lau’s racing lives. A Hong Kong Derby (2000m) winner and the jurisdiction’s four-year-old champion in 2022, he has locked horns with other greats of the modern era such as Golden Sixty and California Spangle. His remarkable victory in last year’s Hong Kong Cup is one that will live long in the memory as he demolished a classy international field by more than four lengths, so comfortably that jockey James McDonald could showboat before he had even reached the line. The handsome bay gelding has also achieved something that even Hong Kong’s biggest equine celebrity, Golden Sixty, has not managed. His team’s laudable plan to campaign him overseas has seen his reputation spread far beyond the shores of the South China Sea. They chose the long-term strategy of the Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m), Australia’s keynote weight-for-age prize, and at the end of October Romantic Warrior would become the first horse from Hong Kong to win it, flying home with clinical timing from McDonald to lead on the line. “To win it was great for myself, for Hong Kong racing and for the whole of Hong Kong,” Lau said at the draw ceremony on Thursday. “I think it was like winning a gold medal in the Olympics, it lifted the morale of the whole country.” Shum reports that Romantic Warrior has thrived since his trip overseas but his biggest concern is the standard of rivals in wait, with the likes of Irish ace Luxembourg, French rising star Horizon Dore and a formidable Japanese challenge headed by Prognosis and Rousham Park. “It (the opposition) will be quite strong I think, very strong,” the trainer said. “He’s been good. In the morning, that kind of horse is always good. But I think he’s still improving. He’s been great since Australia, no problem at all.” Shum said that he would not make any decisions about further overseas campaigns until after Sunday’s race. Lau, who co-founded the Japan Home Centre, a popular chain of homeware shops in Hong Kong, also seems to want to enjoy the ride, one step at a time, with the finest horse he has owned. “We won this last year so now there’s even more pressure,” he said. “In Australia I was as proud as I’ve been in all my life as an owner, it’s my greatest win so far. “He’s only five, going to six. I think he’s still got some improvement in him, I certainly hope so. “His form has been good since he came back, and the rider James gave a good comment about his condition so far. I’m very much looking forward to Sunday.” More horse racing news View the full article

Australian has been working with Danny Shum’s star since before his Cox Plate adventure and is rapt with how he is tracking ahead of Sunday’s Hong Kong CupView the full article

Race 5 LODGE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 1100 TIVAAN WARRIOR (K Myers) – Trainer Mr. D Wiles advised Stewards, TIVAAN WARRIOR has been retired from racing. The post Waikato Thoroughbred Racing at Te Rapa, Saturday, 2 December 2023 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Race 8 STEELFORM ROOFING GROUP WANGANUI CUP (Listed Race) 2040m PINION (M Hashizume) – Co-trainer Mr. R Wellwood reported to Stewards, the stable was satisfied with the post-race condition of PINION although in his opinion the gelding may not of handled the Good 4 track conditions. R Wellwood further advised the gelding will be sent for a freshen up, however, the stable will continue to exercise PINION on the water treadmill. The post Wanganui Jockey Club @ Wanganui, Saturday, 2 December 2023 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Race 8 RIVERBANK CONSTRUCTION 1400m ASTRON (M Cameron) – Trainer Mr. C Cole advised Stewards, that on Wednesday 6 December, ASTRON underwent a veterinary examination which included an ECG with results showing the gelding to have inflammation of the heart. C Cole further advised ASTON has been placed on a course of steroids to help with the inflammation and has also been sent for a six-month spell. The post Levin Racing Club @ Otaki, Thursday, 30 November 2023 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Golden Sixty has drawn barrier 14 in the Hong Kong Mile. Golden Sixty must overcome the widest draw of all in stall 14 if he is to reclaim his Group 1 Hong Kong Mile (1600m) crown on Sunday, in a turn of events which drew audible gasps from the assembled audience at Thursday morning’s barrier allocation ceremony in Sha Tin’s iconic parade ring. Golden Sixty won his first Hong Kong Mile in 2020 from box seven of ten and 12 months later he followed up when peeling to the outer after an inside trip from stall two. He failed to reel in California Spangle when drawn four in the 2022 edition and, in addition to attempting to win a third title on what will be his seasonal reappearance, Vincent Ho will now need to plot a path from out wide on the eight-year-old son of Medaglia d’Oro. “Of course, it’s not an ideal draw and it makes things difficult for Vincent,” said trainer Frances Lui. “Midfield with cover, of course (would be best). If you look at the field, I think California Spangle will lead and he will slow down the pace. “Probably this race will be run at a slow pace. It’s going to be difficult.” Asked how stall 14 changes the task for Hong Kong’s pre-eminent miler, Lui added: “I think I will leave it to the jockey. I think the horse knows what to do, he has run so many races, and it all depends on the situation.” Christophe Soumillon will have a much more straightforward task from stall three aboard California Spangle, and the rematch from 12 months ago sets up with a similar scenario, albeit the two principals are drawn much wider apart this year. Yuga Kawada is housed just outside in four on Serifos but three more of Japan’s five-strong challenge were less fortunate, with Danon The Kid, Soul Rush and Namur filling stalls ten, 11 and 12 respectively. Lucky Sweynesse will break from stall five in the Group 1 Hong Kong Sprint (1200m), with Zac Purton able to eyeball defending champion Wellington in three from flag-fall. The draw means the pair are physically separated by another leading home hope in Victor The Winner, who also split them across the line in the Group 2 Jockey Club Sprint (1200m) on 19 November. Four-time Group 1-winner Highfield Princess must make the best of her way home from nine in a final field of ten declared on Thursday morning. Big race jockey Jason Hart is scheduled to link up with her on the all-weather track at Sha Tin on Friday morning, after trainer John Quinn elected to give the six-year-old Night Of Thunder mare a quiet time in the quarantine stables on Thursday, following her turf breeze 24 hours earlier. One trainer who didn’t wait for the barrier draw to declare his intentions was Hideyuki Mori. Outside pressure seems assured from the Mori-trained Jasper Krone – the mount of Yuga Kawada – who made all in a pair of Group 3 victories in Japan this summer and attempted to repeat the tactic when fourth in the Sprinters Stakes before disappointing at the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint (1000m). Mori told the international media assembled for a Hong Kong Jockey Club press conference immediately prior to drawing stall eight: “He will lead on Sunday and set a good pace.” Two more rivals that have been drawn in close proximity are the defending champion in the Hong Kong Cup (2000m), Romantic Warrior, and Japan’s number one hope for the HK$36 million feature, Prognosis, who drew stalls seven and six, respectively. Still riding a wave of goodwill following Romantic Warrior’s historic win in the Cox Plate, owner Peter Lau told the audience: “Since he came back (from Australia) he has eaten better, his body weight is normal, and James McDonald says that in his training and trials, he feels even better.” The Aidan O’Brien-trained quartet was mostly handed favourable post positions but Cup contender Luxembourg is parked out in ten on the short run to the first bend over 2000m. France’s Horizon Dore has the opposite problem from stall one, given the hold-up tactics thus far employed with the three-year-old, and while he should be guaranteed to go the shortest way round, Mickael Barzalona will need the gaps to appear at the right time. O’Brien managed to draw stall one for Yorkshire Oaks and Prix Vermeille heroine Warm Heart in the Group 1 Hong Kong Vase (2400m), a potentially enticing prospect for Ryan Moore on the basis she was ridden positively in both those wins over 2400m by James Doyle. With Shahryar withdrawn on Thursday morning, the leading Japanese chance on form would now appear to rest with Lebensstill, aboard whom Joao Moreira will break from stall seven. More horse racing news View the full article

Meetings don’t get much better than Grand Prix day. On Sunday Addington will host eight Group 1s as part of an action-packed 10-race programme. So we’ve produced a Punting Guide to provide with all the information you need to enjoy what should be a brilliant day. Punting Guide Here View the full article

Online bookmakers have released their racing promotions for Friday, December 8, including several great bonus back offers. The top Australian racing promotions for December 8, 2023, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions Double Winnings Races 1-4 at Moonee Valley Double Winnings Paid in Bonus Cash. Max Bonus $50 First Bet Only. T&Cs apply Login to PickleBet to Claim Promo Moonee Valley Race 1 & 2 2nd or 3rd Bonus Back Up to $50 Back a runner in races 1 & 2 at Moonee Valley this Friday and if it runs 2nd or 3rd get up to $50 in Bonus Cash. Fixed Win bets only. 18+ Gamble Responsibly. General betting rules apply. Neds T&Cs apply. Login to Neds to Claim Promo Bonus Back for 2nd ALL Races at Moonee Valley Minimum 6 runners. Fixed odds win bets only. Check Vault for eligibility. Limits may apply. Login to UniBet to Claim Promo Bonus Back for 2nd & 3rd at Moonee Valley Races 1-4 Get your stake back in bonus bets. Eligible Clients only. General PlayUp T&C’s apply. Login to PlayUp to Claim Promo How does horsebetting.com.au source its racing bonus offers? HorseBetting has reviewed the top horse racing bookmakers in Australia and has unveiled exclusive thoroughbred bonus promotions and specials for Friday, December 8, 2023. These horse racing promotions persist almost daily, showcasing the commitment of Australia’s top horse racing bookmakers. If one bookmaker lacks a promotion, rest assured that another is presenting enticing promotional offers in the realm of gallops. HorseBetting.com.au is your go-to source for the most lucrative horse racing bookmaker bonuses every day. Gain the most value out of your punting endeavours with bookie bonuses with the most competitive horse racing odds available for each race. It’s imperative to note that these thoroughbred racing promotion offers cater exclusively to existing customers. Accessing these special promotions and claiming the bookmaker’s offers requires logging in to each online bookmaker’s platform. For those seeking races and horses to leverage their horse betting bookmaker bonus bets, HorseBetting offers a valuable resource with its daily free racing tips. Stay informed, stay strategic, and make the most of your horse racing experience with these exclusive promotions. More horse racing promotions View the full article

What The Ingham Charity Raceday Where Royal Randwick Racecourse – Alison Rd, Randwick NSW 2031 When Saturday, December 9, 2023 First Race 12:20pm AEDT Visit Dabble The Group 2 Ingham Stakes (1600m) headlines a massive 10-race program at Randwick this Saturday. The rail moves back to the true position and the track is rate a Good 4, so it should play fairly throughout the afternoon. The opening is set to get underway at 12:20pm local time. Ingham Stakes Pick: Hinged Hinged is yet to step out since finishing mid-field in the Group 1 Empire Rose Stakes (1600m) on November 4. The daughter of Worthy Cause was found to be lame in both offside legs in the washup, giving the five-year-old clear excuses after she travelled wide without cover throughout. The Empire Rose has produced four subsequent winners, and with Hinged trialling nicely since, she can add to that tally in the Ingham Stakes. Ingham Stakes Race 7 – #13 Hinged (7) 5yo Mare | T: Chris Waller | J: Zac Lloyd (55kg) +2600 with Bet365 Best Bet At Randwick: Iowna Merc Iowna Merc heads to Randwick with an unblemished second-up record and will seek to maintain that in the final race of the program. The son of Winning Rupert was tackled on the wire first-up at this course on November 7 when attempting to make every post a winner under Anna Roper. Rachel King regains the ride after an eye-catching barrier trial on November 20, and with King boasting a strong record on the four-year-old, expect her to get the most out of Iowna Merc. Best Bet Race 10 – #11 Iowna Merc (10) 4yo Gelding | T: Bjorn Baker | J: Rachel King (57kg) +400 with Dabble Best Value at Radwick: Promitto Promitto hasn’t won since February 2022, but his latest effort at Newcastle on November 18 suggests he is close to recapturing his best. The son of Divine Prophet ran into the smart Tavi Time on that occasion and was clearly the best of the beaten brigade, running second despite sitting close to last entering the home straight. Promitto needs to lug 61.5kg here, but if Zac Lloyd can hold a position from barrier six, watch for this guy to be powering home once again. Best Value Race 9 – #1 Promitto (6) 4yo Gelding | T: David Atkins | J: Zac Lloyd (61.5kg) +1400 with Betfair Randwick Saturday quaddie tips – 9/12/2023 Randwick quadrella selections Saturday, December 9, 2023 1-2-4-6-8-10-13-14-19 3-10 1-2-3-5-8 1-7-11 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article

Horse Racing on Friday, December 8 will feature 10 meetings in Australia. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the top bets and the quaddie numbers for the meetings at Moonee Valley, Canterbury and Darwin. Friday Racing Tips – December 8, 2023 Moonee Valley Racing Tips Canterbury Racing Tips Darwin Racing Tips Best Horse Racing Bets For December 8, 2023 Place these horse racing bets in a multi for $75.68 odds return: Friday, December 8, 2023 Moonee Valley – Race 3 #3 Setosa Canterbury – Race 4 #3 Newfoundland Darwin – Race 5 #5 No Rain No Flowers | 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 8, 2023 check out our guide to the best online racing betting sites. More horse racing tips View the full article

The Chris Hartman-trained 4-year-old Tejano Twist is coming off a sharp win in the Bet on Sunshine Stakes Nov. 4 at Churchill Downs and shoots for his fourth victory of 2023 and ninth win overall.View the full article

The next stop on the Road to the Kentucky Derby (G1) goes through Oklahoma Dec. 15 when Remington Park hosts the $300,000 Springboard Mile Stakes, a qualifying points race for next year's Run for the Roses at Churchill Downs.View the full article

Hall of Fame trainer and North American all-time wins leader Steve Asmussen will be chasing more milestones during the 2023-24 Oaklawn meeting that opens Friday.View the full article

The annual Select Stallion Season Auction hosted by the Ohio Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners (OTBO) will be held Thursday, Dec. 14 and Friday, Dec. 15 with previews Dec. 12 and 13. The OTBO has selected a group of stallions from around the country, including major farms in Kentucky and New York, for the auction. A preliminary list of offerings is available at otbo.com with more information and a catalogue to be forthcoming Dec. 12 at 1 a.m. EST at equiring.com/sale/291/OTBO2024. The OTBO also has access to additional seasons for sale. For more information, please contact the OTBO at (330) 356-8350 or visit otbo.com. The post OTBO Stallion Season Auction Set for Dec. 14-15 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Every week we look at the trials and workouts from right around the country. Who’s impressing and who looks ready to race? The Ashburton trials Tuesday 5th December Weather Overcast Track Good Jukebox Gypsy (2f Rock N Roll Heaven – Gypsy’s Choice) In the hands of her trainer Gerard O’Reilly, the filly went to the front then cleared out from her rivals over final 400m. MR:2:02.5, 800m in 60.5, 400m in 29.9. She is the first foal of a mare that won five races herself and this effort suggested that she had inherited much of her mother’s ability. Chica Bella (4m Art Major – Indulge) The White trained mare got her ‘ticket’ here by getting to the front and staying on too well for her four rivals. MR:2:05.9, 800m in 60.2, 400m in 29.4. She has had plenty of time to work the racing game out and the stable obviously likes her. She has some breeding to reinforce her claims with her dam winning six and over $100k in stakes. ‘Bella’ is the 3rd foal and the 1st 2 foals have both been winners Rockin Va Va (5g A Rocknroll Dance – Va Va Voom) The Cheree Wigg runner sat at the back of the bunch throughout and was still there 500m out, put in sustained run in the straight to just outfinish Terra Sancta who was last of the bunch turning in, did best work out wide last 150m to just miss (margin – nose) MR:2:05.1, 800m in 59.0, 400m in 28.9. Rockin Va Va, as the winner of six, might be a ‘special’ if kept for an amateur race. Terra Sancta qualified in late November for Matty Williamson but has yet to debut. Ari On Safari (2g Always B Miki – Jive Denario) The O’Reilly trained runner stepped nicely and was handy before taking control after 500m, simply said goodbye to his rivals at the 400m and was officially 10L clear at the line. MR:2:06.6, 800m in 59.1, 400m in 28.7. This impressive qualifier is the first foal from a mare that is no longer with us but was a half sister to three winners and from Stylish Sweetheart who won 12 races and $157k in stakes including seven as a 2yo. Certainly a debut to look out for. Rangiora Trials Wednesday 6th December Weather Fine Track Good Im Rockin (2g Johnny Rock – I’m Joe King) The Todd trained runner stepped and led his one rival throughout, kept going solidly to win nicely MR:2:08.5, 800m in 56.3, 400m in 28.2. Apart from the slick sectionals in this qualifier, the winner has some very interesting breeding behind him and his dam is a half to five winners including For The Ladies (9 wins and race timed in 1:51) ! Rockingood (2g A Rocknroll Dance – Good Girl Becqui) Trained by Benny Hill, the 2yo was happy enough to sit back in the field before improving to outside the leader 600m out, led on straightening, kept going strongly to come clear final 50m MR:2:04.6, 800m in 59.2, 400m in 28.6. The trainer has a share in this fella and there is some good breeding in behind to suggest a promising future. Louretta made ground in style from back on outer for a closing second, yet to qualify. Lethal Speed (3g Bettor’s Delight – Sossusvlei) The Dunn runner settled fifth of seven in indian file before improving midrace to lead, kept going strongly to clearly outstay rivals MR:2:03.4, 800m in 58.8, 400m in 30.1. Qualified back in August and this professional performance argued well for when the top stable decides to run him on debut. It should be noted that he is the third foal and the first two have already been good winners including his full brother Aqua Sancta who has raced timed in 1:51. This is the Black Watch family through Corbie. On Top Of The World ran on well for 2nd although no match for the winner Narobi (2f Bettor’s Delight – Its All On) The Purdon trained filly got to the lead soon after the mobile left and kept going under her own steam to keep her rivals at bay MR:1:59.9, 800m in 58.7, 400m in 29.8. Qualified back in May behind Waterfront (Sires Stakes heat winner) and ahead of Madrid. That company would suggest she is more than likely to handle a maiden race. Fulham Jive (3g A Rocknroll Dance – MJ Fulham) Taken straight to the front by trainer Robbie Holmes and came clear in the straight to win impressively by nearly 4L MR:2:03.1, 800m in 57.0, 400m in 28.3. Placed once in three starts, the last of which was way back in February, given time to grow into his big frame and this patient policy looks to be heading in the right direction for his connections. Elite Styx (4m Betting Line – Styx On The Beach) The Payne trained mare sat fifth of six before improving to take control last 600m, kept up strong run to win with something in hand MR:2:05.0, 800m in 57.4, 400m in 28.5. Genuine mare who has already won three and generally gives of her best, freshened since last racing and a good chance to build upon her current record at short notice. Beach Ball (4h Somebeachsomewhere – Twilight Rascal) The NZ Cup placegetter here for a ‘quiet run’ and he settled third of four, tracked into the race on the final bend then had little trouble picking up rivals inside last 100m. Driver Rick May had made the journey from Methven to stick with him, since being taken over by Benny Hill. MR:2:01.3, 800m in 56.8, 400m in 27.9 With placings in both Cup week starts, it would be fair to say the big boy is in career best form and can be followed with some confidence in the coming weeks Live On Legend (4g A Rocknroll Dance – A Legend) The Austin trained runner, not for the first time in recent weeks, was impressive again in a trial after stepping to the front and proving a class above his two rivals. MR:2:06.4, 800m in 58.4, 400m in 29.1. The winner of four from 20 starts, and freshened since last racing in September, his work at the trials suggest he is ready to build upon his tidy race record. Last start winner Dare Devil stepped smoothly from the stand then was pulled out of heat after performing satisfactorily with his stand start manners. Pukekohe Workouts Friday 1st December Weather Fine Track fast Prince Miki (2g Always B Miki – Jubilee Princess) The Telfer-trained runner got back in the five horse qualifying field, still had plenty to do 400m out, made up a ton of ground in the straight to finish third less than 3L from winner/stablemate Major Secret who led throughout. MR:2:02.2, 800m in 58.7, 400m in 29.1. His last 400m would have been quite superior to that of the winner. Ice Fairy who has been mentioned more than once in recent weeks, trailed then challenged strongly to be close up in second to also qualify. Manhattan (5m Bettor’s Delight – Wat A Woman) The Butt-trained runner, up in the north for the mares specials, sped out to lead as the gate pulled away in the hands of young Harrison Orange, had little trouble staying in front of her three rivals, it was impressive work. MR:2:01.5, 800m in 57.1, 400m in 27.2. Life’s A Beach not disgraced in coming from fourth of four to snare second, made her run at the 400m when the pace was right on. Royal Action (3f Majestic Son – Aspiring Monarch) Four runners and all had a turn in front but Royal Action (unqualified) was good enough to sit parked last 1000m and still outfinish two-win pacemaker The River Boy for co-trainer Lyn Neal although the latter did give the winner a 20m headstart. MR:2:10.5, 800m in 61.5, 400m in 29.6. The winner sprinted sharply in the straight to win impressively and her debut should be keenly awaited. Con Grazia Love (4m Love You – Con Grazia) The McCaffrey-trained Group 1 winner gave her six rivals a start and was content to race in last spot before improving from the 600m, brought wide on straightening and proved too classy for her rivals. MR:2:06.7, 800m in 59.8, 400m in 29.0. Hasn’t started since May and will derive great benefit from this run. Already the winner of $116k and just five races, she should be easily placed in the coming weeks. Slots (2c Sweet Lou – Spin To Win) The Telfer-trained runner again impressed, racing fourth of six before electing to race parked from the 900m, too strong over the final stages for pacemaker Taketheplunge MR:2:05.9, 800m in 58.1, 27.7. Of interest, Roman Rock, stablemate of the winner, caught the eye, running on for third without being pushed. Now four (rising 5) but qualified way back in early 2022 and yet to debut. DJ Rock (3g Rock N Roll Heaven – Ideal Lass) The Telfer-trained runner raced third of three before getting around to challenge pacemaker McKendrick at the 400m, both went to the line strongly and just a nose between them at the finish. MR:2:05.4, 800m in 57.8, 400m in 28.1. DJ Rock has won two already from just eight starts and looks capable of extending that promising start in his present rating grade. Cassius Clyde (3g American Ideal – Charioteer) Yet another from the powerful Telfer stable, raced fourth of four throughout, came wide on the final turn and finished resolutely to get very close to winner Major Achievement who trailed third until finishing best. MR:2:03.0, 800m in 60.4, 400m in 29.1. Clyde has already won two from just five starts but has been given time to fill into his large frame and this patient policy should prove fruitful for his connections. Winton Workouts Friday 1st December Weather Fine Track Good Flashbytheseaside (2c Downbytheseaside – Flashonbye) Only a learners heat but the Morris-trained runner made a positive impression by racing last of five throughout before putting in a sustained finish over the final 400m to nail pacemaker John Snow on the line. MR:2:06.8, 800m in 58.7, 400m in 29.3. The half to Sporty Charlie (4 wins) should easily qualify to go to the races on this effort. Captain Meister (3g Captaintreacherous – Lite Jagermeister) In the hands of trainer Kirsten Green, settled last of four before taking closer order inside final 800m, led around final turn and kept going strongly to outstay Mallory Maguire who trailed mostly, without being driven out. MR:2:03.0, 800m in 56.0, 400m in 28.4. Already placed in a short career to date, he looks well capable of winning a maiden sooner than later. Mallory Maguire, a half to Lewey Maguire, looks a promising filly also. Tact McLeod (4g Sweet Lou – Tact Hayley Jane) Some performance this. Settled last of 7 and at one point must have been 20L from the leader, gaps closed up midrace then he was set alight by young Kite and went from last to first in the space of 200m, led on straightening, arrogantly proved too good without being extended. MR:2:03.2, 800m in 55.5, 400m in 27.7. This field had the likes of Sandwave and Another Party included but the lightly raced Proctor runner (2 wins from 4 starts) definitely made a statement here. The Highflyer (2g Fear The Dragon – The Highlight) The Gray-trained runner trailed third before electing to improve and lead 1200m out, stayed on strongly to deadheat with Blue Star Hima (lead, trail) with the others well beaten. MR:2:05.2, 800m in 58.2, 400m in 28.6. Qualified back in September behind Claasee (already a winner) and looks a sound advert for his sire who had his first NZ winner recently. Blue Star Hima qualified even further back in April and has some breeding to recommend him, the 2yo colt by Sweet Lou Bring On The Muscle (2g Majestic Son – Mass Invasion) The promising Barron-trained trotter (2 wins/2 placings from just 4 starts) trailed throughout then challenged at the top of the straight and had no problem powering past the pacemaker to win impressively. MR:2:06.9, 800m in 58.6, 400m in 29.0. Looks a handy horse in the making and even at this stage could be followed with some confidence moving forwards. Northern Southland Workouts Sunday 3rd December Weather Overcast Track Good (Grass track) Bobbie’s Majorette(3f Art Major – Ask McArdle) The Matheson-trained filly led out before trailing Peace Of Heaven after 400m, challenged determinedly in straight to just edge out the latter but little between them at the line. MR:2:05.5, 800m in 59.6, 400m in 30.1. Bobbie is from a handy mare that won five and her first four foals have all got to the races including the promising last start winner in Caldwell. Peace Of Heaven is a half to three winners who have gone sub 1:58 including the handy Escobar who won two here before being exported to Australia. Sky Fawkes (3f Sky Major – Coughton Court) The Anderson/Love trained runner sped out to lead and was clear most of the way, kicked again at the top of the straight when her rivals threatened to get close, cleared out by 7L. MR:2:06.7, 800m in 60.5, 400m in 29.4. Qualified back in October and high strike rate trainer has a share in this one, primed for her debut wherever she goes to. Bobbie’s Rock (4g A Rocknroll Dance – Ask McArdle) The Kirsten Green-trained runner snagged back to last in a field of six, stayed there until getting into the running line three back on outer inside final 1000m, came wide on final turn to strongly reel in his rivals. MR:2:12.8, 800m in 59.3, 400m in 29.1. Hasn’t started since April but showed good promise winning two from 10 in his first campaign Shezza Vinny (3f Vincent – Shezza Cracker) The Brinsdon-trained filly led out and set a leisurely pace, sprinted strongly last 300m to come clear of four rivals, officially by 4L. MR:2:16.3, 800m in 60.2, 400m in 30.0. Close to winning her maiden in recent times and this effort again reinforced the thought that this win is close at hand One Two Menny (6g Majestic Son – One Two Kenny) The Wilson-trained runner began ok off 20m but then had an early gallop, recovered to track stablemate Willangus Lad (30m) onto the front end midrace and led 1200m out, caught by the latter final 50m but kept going strongly to the line, just a head the margin. MR:2:07.7, 800m/400m sectionals not available. While Willangus Lad had race fitness on his side after racing (unsuccessfully) at Addington over Cup Week, One Two Menny hasn’t started since April and would have benefited immensely from this outing. Chertsey trials Tuesday 21st November Weather Fine / Track Fast (Ashburton) Paramount Lady (2f Tactical Landing – Paramount Faith) In the hands of her trainer Mark Jones, the 2yo half sister to Muscle Mountain went solo in this solid effort. MR:2:09.9, 800m in 60.6, 400m in 29.6. She qualified back in August but her three starts to date against the best 2yos have reaped little to date. Her breeding is to respected and with practice she should get better. Franco Promachos (3g A Rocknroll Dance – Pepper Potts) The Leacock-Jones trained runner got his qualifying ticket here by stepping straight to the front and running away from his 3 rivals over the final stages. MR:2:08.1, 800m in 56.9, 400m in 27.6. The overall time was nothing to write home about but the final sectionals looked positive. His dam won six and has already left two sub 2:00 min performers from her first two foals including Parker (7 wins) and he is foal number three. Whatever It Takes (3c Creatine – Diedre’s Gold) The Donna Williamson-trained runner settled fourth of four before improving to take issue inside the final 800m, surged to the front at the 500m and careered away from his three rivals in the straight, 15 1/2L officially. MR:2:11.3, 800m in 59.0, 400m in 29.2. This qualifying effort was quite a professional one and he looked solid throughout. Another plus is the fact that he is by a sire doing a very nice job currently. Mighty Miki (2g Always B Miki – Touch Of Rose) This Matty Williamson-trained runner caught the eye when qualifying second, just behind West Virginia, coming off her back to just miss by a nose, had raced fourth of five throughout. MR:2:07.3, 800m in 58.7, 400m in 28.3. Those sectionals off the front which made his run meritorious. His dam won four and was a handy 2yo and has already left five winners so he has a bit going for him. High Energy (3f Father Patrick – High Gait) Back from an Australian campaign and already the winner of eight (from only 11 starts) and close to $140k in stakes, the Purdon trained filly led and was not asked for too much as she was nabbed late by High Intensity (yet another by Creatine) who trailed her throughout. MR:2:10.5, 800m in 60.7, 400m in 29.2. The latter has won two from five on raceday and these two fillies could clash again on Grand Prix day in early December. Kiss The Girls (6g Terror To Love – Duarunner) The Jones trained runner officially only sixth in a nine horse field but never pulled out over final stages after racing in midfield and looked to have plenty in reserve. Heat won by a pacemaking El Chico. MR:2:04.8, 800m in 56.1, 400m in 27.4. The winner of six has not started in over a year and would have derived great benefit from this run, certainly one to watch out for if he makes it back to his best. Henry Winkler (3g Rocknroll Hanover – Angela’s Dream) The Fonz would have been very happy with this effort from the Smolenski trained gelding who stepped into the trail then put plenty of dash into his final 300m to clear out from his four rivals. MR:2:05.3, 800m in 57.6, 400m in 27.6. A recent qualifier with some breeding behind him, the 7L margin would suggest a maiden field well within his capabilities…..happy days ! Transtasman Bubble (3f Aldebaran Eagle – Anguish) Only officially fifth of seven for the Holmes trained filly but she did come from last at the 800m to get within a length of the winner Special Effects and was stretching out in good style over the final 200m. MR:2:10.3, 800m in 59.1, 400m 28.9. Has twice from only three starts including finishing ahead of subsequent winner Mainbocher at her most recent start. On the breeding front, her dam is a daughter of Sungait Reb (15 wins + $178k in stakes), she looks a winner in the very near future. Sonadora (3f Betting Line – Sue Dreamer) Now with Mark Smolenski (previously in her four career starts with the Dunns), led out then trailed seven win mare She’s Tough, gave plenty of cheek to that runner over final stages in sharp sprint home, 1L away in 2nd. MR:2:09.6, 800m in 56.6, 400m in 27.5. Good enough to win on debut then place against the likes of Franco Sinatra in her first campaign, put aside for the winter and hasn’t started since May but one to consider in her own grade against her own sex. Aldebaran Floss (5m Muscle Mass – Another Love) The Swain-trained trotter trailed then popped out to lead from the 800m, ran clear of two rivals from that point. MR:2:15.4, 800m in 57.8, 400m in 28.4. Has had two runs back after being off the track for over two years. Was a Group 2 winner at three and has won three from 17 career starts, starting against the best of her age group. The time not startling but much to like about her final sectionals and looks to be a natural improver with racing under her belt Rangiora Trials Wednesday 29th November Weather Overcast Track Good The Chase (3g What The Hill – Loveonthelawn) The Barron-trained trotter had four rivals in this qualifying heat but three of them broke badly enough to take no real part and it was really a solo effort that him clear by 20 odd lengths at the line. MR:2:12.1, 800m in 60.8, 400m in 30.6. He was very solid throughout and comes with some breeding, going back to a prolific family developed by legendary trotting trainer Bill Doyle. As the name suggests, his dam is by Love You and won twice in a short career, one to respect on debut Kamilla (3f Creatine – Dutchess) Trained by Benny Hill, the as yet unqualified 3yo had no trouble leading from the mobile and at the business end had similar ease in proving far too good for her two rivals. MR:2:08.2, 800m in 60.8, 400m in 30.5. She is a half to three winners including the well performed Doff Your Cap (14 wins + $208k in stakes with a best time of 1:54.1) and while not overly big, had a nice way of going to suggest a maiden field would be well within her capabilities. Cathy Freeman (2f Sweet Lou – Tres Vite) The Mark Jones-trained filly settled back in 6 horse field, still had plenty to do 400m out, came wide on final turn and finished determinedly to grab a head win over Lady Boutique who enjoyed the 1-1 sit last 800m, both naturally qualified. MR:2:03.9, 800m in 59.2, 400m in 29.8. Driven by Sam Ottley, the winner looked to be finding the line under her own steam. Dam won seven in a short career and this is her first/only foal to date Built For Glory (2c Bettor’s Delight – Fight For Glory) The Telfer trained colt settled midfield from widest draw then elected to improve 1200m out to lead, kept going strongly to keep his rivals at bay. MR:2:02.5, 800m in 59.1, 400m in 29.1. This colt qualified way back in March just behind Major Hot and Vessem (both high quality performing 2yos) and of course his dam was a big winner on both sides of the Tasman, winning 14 and some $674k in stakes. He ticks a lot of boxes. Warrior Chief (3g Sweet Lou – Here We Go Again) The Gameson trained runner trailed two and three deep mostly before being asked to improve inside final 800m and sit parked, led 400m, kept up strong run to clearly outstay rivals. MR:2:02.3, 800m in 58.1, 400m in 29.5. He has been mentioned in this forum previously and it is noted that his last start (in early October) was against Don’t Stop Dreaming and other smart 3yos. Already a winner from just four starts and looks capable of adding to his record at short notice. Franco Marek (5g A Rocknroll Dance – Miss Lisa) Caught wide early, the Manson trained runner pushed forward to lead then sprinted sharply to keep We Walk By Faith at bay. MR:2:00.5, 800m in 56.3, 400m in 27.4. Didn’t get much of a go in last week’s Timaru Cup and has a good horse’s record, having won five from just 14 starts, punters should stay loyal to him. We Walk By Faith led then trailed, not extended to keep pace with the winner with the rest some 8L away. Did the business on Show Day at Addington and not finished yet for high profile stable. Caserta Franco (2f Art Major – Cherish A Franco) Not often a runner that runs last of six deserves a mention but the McRae runner bungled the start and lost considerable ground, only made contact with her rivals with 800m to run and not surprisingly elected to tuck in behind all the way down the home straight and looked comfortable enough over the final stages. Heat won by Ten Da Touch. MR:2:08.7, 800m in 59.5, 400m in 29.7. She qualified back in April and is a half to some handy types including Franco Cristiano (9 wins). One to watch out for especially against her own sex. Muscle Mountain (6g Muscle Hill – Paramount Faith) Back at the trials after the misfortune of The Dominion handicap on Show Day, the Hope trained superstar gave 5 lesser-rated rivals 40m start and after beginning swiftly to trail third, used the inside channel to finish best although the time not overly quick. MR:2:13.4, 800m in 61.2, 400m in 29.4. Nevertheless, the connections would have been ultra happy with the run under the circumstances and he looks on track to bounce back and show his true worth. Pinseeker (3g Downbytheseaside – Nicky’s Power) The Cox trained runner (1 start for 1 win) stepped and led, set leisurely pace before sprinting stylishly and holding off his more tightly assessed rivals in Live On Legend and Mandalay Bay MR:2:10.2, 800m in 57.5, 400m in 27.6. The debut was no fluke and he can continue on his merry way next time out. Live On Legend raced fourth of four then came on very well last 400m and his sectionals would have impressed watchers. Pukekohe Workouts Saturday 25th November Weather Fine Track fast Major Achievement (3g Art Major – Atom Queen) The Green-trained runner settled third of five and stayed there until stablemate and pacemaker Beaudiene Rocknroll went off stride 600m out, took the opportunity to take over and kept going strongly to hold his rivals at bay. MR:2:03.9, 800m in 59.0, 400m in 29.6. Maiden win was four starts ago and looks to be coming to terms with recent rise in class, might be better suited to Cambridge way of going. Conrad H (4g Love You – Hilton H) The Balle-trained trotter was slow away from the front line but able to trail ahead of 20m runners, back to third of four mid race, came around on final turn to outstay his more tightly assessed rivals. MR:2:12.3, 800m in 61.7, 400m in 30.3. Did ok last campaign and now getting ready for another crack. Hasn’t started since May but should be improved again this time in. JT Boe (2g Always B Miki – Bettor Think Quick) The Telfer-trained (and unqualified) runner sat last of three and was still there turning in, brought wide and finished strongly to grab his rivals last 50m. MR:2:03.8, 800m in 60.5, 400m in 29.4. Mum won nine and nearly $100k in stakes, this is her first live foal. From a good family and getting his raceday ‘ticket’ won’t be a problem. Major Secret (2g Art Major – Presidential Affair) Another unqualified pacer from the Telfer team, trailed two and three deep of four, and produced strong burst through the middle last 150m to win going away. MR:2:10.1, 800m in 62.1, 400m in 28.7. Also from a good family including A Fair Of Dance who won in 1:49.2 in America, race day debut can’t be too far away judging by this effort. Note: I Didn’t Know That led for fun early on but ran off the track a lap out and dislodged his driver. McKendrick (3g Sweet Lou – Beaudiene Beaut Babe) The Dunn-trained runner in the hands of stableforeman Rhys Fensom, raced fourth of five throughout, still had plenty to do on straightening, flew last 100m to just miss picking up pacemaker Sharkies Girl. MR:2:04.0, 800m in 59.0, 400m in 28.2. Robert Dunn owns a share in this runner and up from the South Island where he has done his racing, last seen back in May and with natural maturity, should give a good account of himself in upcoming assignments. Delightful Reality (3f Bettors Delight – Major Reality) The Telfer-trained filly trailed pacemaker Change Tact throughout, challenged hard in straight, just missed in a close photo finish. MR:2:05.3, 800m in 60.2, 400m in 29.1. Only had the one start back in June but looks to be much stronger this time in. Plenty of breeding gives her a chance with dam being a half sister to Group 1 performers Ultimate Machete and Ultimate Sniper. Slots (2c Sweet Lou – Spin To Win) Straight to the front with the hammer down and far too good for his rivals, winning officially by 6L. MR:2:04.9, 800m in 59.0, 400m in 28.6. The Telfer team thought enough of him back in September to have him debut against the best 2yo boys in a Sires’ Stakes heat at Cambridge. The result wasn’t flattering but ‘where there is smoke, there might be fire’.Due big respect if he lines up in a maiden in the coming weeks Winton Workouts Friday 24th November Weather Overcast Track Good Pay Me Speedy (6m Mach 3 – Pay Me Painter) In the hands of trainer Chelsea Faithful, the four-win mare settled third of four before improving mid race to lead, came clear at the 400m to put 3L on her closest rival Rakamurph who led then trailed the winner. MR:2:02.8, 800m in 56.9, 400m in 29.1. Hasn’t won for a while but getting to become a mum might help the form. Breeny’s Rock N Roll (5m Rock N Roll Heaven – Breeny’s Passion) Now with Lyndon Bond, the mare gave her four rivals a headstart by being very slow from behind the mobile and raced in last spot mostly before taking closer order approaching the final turn, strong finish to come over the top of her rivals MR:2:04.6, 800m in 58.6, 400m in 30.8. Has only had the one start back in June (at Ashburton) when trained by its owner. Her dam was handy winning four but like her daughter didn’t really hit her straps until an older mare. Raklou (2f Sweet Lou – Raksbet) The Hunter-trained filly worked to the front in a quality four horse trial and kept going strongly to hold her rivals at bay MR:2:03.2, 800m in 55.9, 400m in 28.5. After some untimely setbacks in the spring, she might be ready to show her best, sectionals here suggested that is the case. Always Ticking ran on strongly from three deep and looks like a natural improver, another quality filly. Tact McLeod who hasn’t started since March but who created such a good impression when brought north to Addington was right in the photo after trailing. Another getting ready for a new campaign is nine race winner Sand Wave who was happy enough racing fourth of four and wasn’t asked for a big effort over the final stages, look for him down south over the summer. Ultimate Weapon (2g Bettor’s Delight – Reality Check) A full brother to Group 1 performers in Ultimate Machete and Sniper got his qualifying ticket for trainer Nathan Williamson after racing midfield of five then finishing best to score with something in hand. MR:2:04.8, 800m in 57.4, 400m in 29.2. Has a lot to live up to, best start at the beginning and let’s see what unfolds Wyndham Workouts Saturday 25th November Weather Fine Track Fast Caldwell (5m Sportswriter – Ask McArdle) The Douglas-trained mare got to the front and sprinted sharply to come away from her four rivals in the straight, by nearly 4L at the line.MR:2:05.4, 800m in 57.4, 400m in 27.4 Was a last start winner for then trainer Kirsten Green but that was over a year ago. Connections have kept the faith and her dam was very handy. Scruffy (4g Bettor’s Delight – Caballo Blanco) When he last raced back in April, was trained by Kirk Larsen, now with Tyler Dewe, straight to the front in this heat and came clear in impressive fashion over the concluding stages, officially by 5 1/2L. MR:2:03.4, 800m in 56.5, 400m in 27.9. Didn’t show much in previous campaign but nothing ‘scruffy’ about this effort, stable gaining a reputation for turning horses around. Cambridge Workouts Saturday 25th November Weather Overcast Track Fast Ice Fairy (2f Always B Miki – Snow Fairy) The Neal-trained filly gets another mention after leading and proving too good for her three rivals in the hands of her part owner/trainer. MR:2:08.2, 800m in 59.1, 400m in 29.5. Still unqualified at this time but getting better with the experience and her breeding demands some respect, one to paste away. Caufield (4g Sir Lincoln – Cosi Bella) The Butcher trained runner led and had little trouble holding on from only two rivals including stablemate Brookside Girl (third of three). MR:2:03.8, 800m in 59.9, 400m in 29.4. This was a rather tame affair but what caught the eye was the winner of four now down to a 46 rating and freshened since last racing. View the full article

By Adam Hamilton Star Kiwi-bred mare Amore Vita has collapsed and died in track work. Devastated owner-breeder Steve Dolan said he was still trying to come to terms with losing the mighty mare. “I’m still trying to digest it all,” he said. “I’d be lying if I said I didn’t shed some tears. “It’s a huge financial loss with a mare like her, but it hurts a lot more emotionally. “I’m gutted to be honest. Clayton (Tonkin) told me she just dropped dead of a heart attack while jogging.” Amore Vita raced just 37 times for 18 wins – four of those at Group 1 level – along with 12 placings and banked $668,553. “We were bringing her back for a possible go at the Miracle Mile and the Queen Elizabeth in Sydney and then retire her to breed from,” Dolan said. Amore Vita started her career in NZ with Dolan, who sent her across to Nathan Purdon as late two-year-old during his time training at Lara in Victoria. When Purdon moved back to NZ, he and Dolan decided Emma Stewart and Clayton Tonkin were the best option to take over training the mare. Amore Vita ran second in the Breeders Crown 2YO final and then scored her first Group 1 win a few weeks later in the Vicbred 2YO Fillies’ final on December 31, 2021. She later added to her Group 1 tally in the Vicbred 3YO Fillies’ final, along with the Golden Girl at Albion Park on July 15, this year and the Vicbred 4YO Mares’ final on September 16. Champion Aussie driver Chris Alford, who partnered Amore Vita in most of her races, said she was up with the best mares he has driven. “She had this incredible will to win, like very few horses I’ve driven,” he said. “Early on her speed was her greatest asset, but then it became her strength. “She did it for three years at the very top level. It’s a huge thing to win three Vicbred finals in a row. “She really was one of those horses you’re lucky to drive.” Dolan and the late Grant Adamson bought and raced Amore Vita’s mother Castellina Lover. “After Grant passed away, his wife Karen was happy breeding from the mare and selling her progeny, but I said I’d like to keep one if the right one came along,” Dolan said. “There was just something about Amore Vita as a foal. She was charismatic and had presence. I told Karen she’s the one to keep. It was a fantastic story when she turned out so good.” View the full article

In this continuing series, we take a look ahead at US-bred and/or conceived runners entered for the upcoming weekend at the tracks on the Japan Racing Association circuit, with a focus on pedigree and/or performance in the sales ring. Here are the horses of interest for Saturday running at Hanshin and Nakayama Racecourses: Saturday, December 9, 2023 6th-HSN, ¥13,720,000 ($96k), Newcomers, 2yo, 1800m SEXY BOUQUET (f, 2, Liam's Map–Shurakaa, by Tapit) cost $180,000 as a Keeneland September yearling and is out of a daughter of 2007 GI Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf winner Lahudood (GB) (Singspiel {Ire}), the dam of this year's G3 New Zealand Cup winner Mahrajaan (Kitten's Joy) and the stakes-winning Aghareed (Kingmambo). The latter's notable roduce includes the sensational five-time Group 1 winner Baaeed (GB) (Sea The Stars {Ire}) and Hukum (Ire) (Sea The Stars {Ire}), twice successful at the top level, including this year's King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Diamond S. Aghareed is also the dam of Naqeeb (Ire) (Nathaniel {Ire}), listed-placed over 14 furlongs on turf this term. B-Shadwell Farm LLC (KY) 6th-NKY, ¥13,720,000 ($96k), Newcomers, 2yo, 1800m COSMO GIN BUCK (JPN) (c, 2, Good Magic–Disposablepleasure, by Giacomo) is set to become the fourth to the races for his dam, the 2011 GII Demoiselle S. winner and runner-up in the GI Mother Goose S. the following season. A half-sister to SW & GSP Romantic Hideaway (City Zip), Disposablepleasure was purchased by this breeder for $35,000 carrying this colt in utero at the 2020 Keeneland November sale. B-Big Red Farm 9th-HSN, ¥20,370,000 ($142k), Allowance, 2yo, 2000mT OSCAR BRAVE (c, 2, Oscar Performance–Russian Symbol {Ire}, by Danehill Dancer {Ire}) opened his account at first asking with a front-running, one-length victory over 1800 meters at Kyoto Nov. 11 (see below, SC 7) and looks to retain the winning thread here while adding a bit more real estate. The Mar. 7 foal is out of a full-sister to three-time Group 1 winner and multiple French champion Esoterique (Ire), one of five full black-type winners and 11 winners from 13 runners overall for second dam Dievotchka (GB) (Dancing Brave). B-Nancy S Dillman (KY) The post Granddaughter of BC Filly & Mare Turf Winner Debuting at Hanshin appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Fasig-Tipton has catalogued 308 entries for its December Digital Sale, which is now open through Tuesday, Dec. 12, at 11 a.m ET, the auction house said in a release Thursday. The catalogue, which is the largest ever offered on the Fasig-Tipton Digital platform, features more than 170 broodmares, as well as broodmare prospects, horses of racing age, yearlings and weanlings. The catalogue also includes a stallion share and lifetime breeding right in MGSW Flameaway (Scat Daddy), who is the current co-leading North American first-crop sire by black-type winners. “This is by far our largest digital sale to date and shows the remarkable growth and traction that Fasig Digital has gained with sellers in just 21 months,” said Leif Aaron, Fasig-Tipton Director of Digital Sales. “With the strength of this catalogue, it is essential for buyers to work through this sale as seriously as they would any live auction.” Covering sires include Bolt d'Oro, Corniche, Early Voting, Essential Quality, Golden Pal, Jack Christopher, Jackie's Warrior, Liam's Map, Mandaloun, Maxfield, Mitole, Mo Donegal, Mystic Guide, Omaha Beach, Practical Joke, Street Sense, Tapit, Twirling Candy, Union Rags, Upstart, Violence, War of Will and Yaupon. Sires of yearlings include Maclean's Music, Medaglia d'Oro, Nyquist, Twirling Candy, Union Rags and Vino Rosso. Weanling sires include Authentic, Hard Spun, Not This Time, Omaha Beach, and Vino Rosso. The catalogue features offerings located in Arkansas, California, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia and Ontario, Canada. “We have offerings at all price ranges that suit a wide variety of regional programs,” said Aaron. “December Digital also provides the last opportunity for those that need to buy before the end of the year for tax purposes.” Click here to view the catalogue, create an account or register to bid. The post Bidding Open For Fasig-Tipton December Digital Sale, Includes 300 Plus Entries appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Hong Kong, Japan, and Ireland all have good chances in four group 1 races on Dec. 10 in the Longines Hong Kong International Races.View the full article

Thomas Rondinello was best known for being the private trainer of John Galbreath's Darby Dan Farm. He trained the stable's homebred Little Current to victories in the 1974 Preakness Stakes (G1) and Belmont Stakes (G1).View the full article

When Olivier (Tapit) worked a half-mile in :49.80 last week at Oaklawn Park for trainer Rodolphe Brisset there was nothing special about the breeze. It was the 45th best work at the distance out of 137 horses who went the half-mile. But it was a step in the right direction, albeit a small one, for a soon-to-be 4-year-old who can't seem to get on the right path. Barring a setback, he should make his debut some time early next year at Oaklawn. Might he finally be ready to turn things around? That's the question and the only reason anyone wants to know the answer is that Olivier is a full-brother to 2022 Horse of the Year Flightline (Tapit), who many call the horse of a lifetime. But it seems that their pedigree is about the only thing they have in common. “He's not a horse you want to compare to Flightline,” Brisset said. “There's absolutely nothing to compare. I got pretty close to Flighline a couple of times. They are totally different horses. If you were able to put one next to the other you'd never know they are brothers. I've been around a long time and I know better. I'm not going to put pressure on myself just because I am training Flightline's brother. But that's hard to translate to people. We will see where the horse takes us and go from there.” About four months after Flightline broke his maiden, Olivier, showed up at the Fasig-Tipton Saratoga sale where he RNA'd for $390,000. After the sale, WinStar Farm acquired a majority interest in Olivier from breeder Jane Lyon. He was sent to Brisset. “I had the horse in training when I was at WinStar last year and then he got moved over to Keeneland,” Brisset said. “He breezed out of the gate a couple of times and he was pretty close to being ready to run. We didn't know at the time how good he might be because we hadn't tested him in the morning. Without posting some blazing fast works we thought he was showing enough where we could look for a maiden special race at a big league track.” A minor setback derailed their plans, and Brisset had no other choice but to try to regroup and hope to get a start out of Olivier as a 4-year-old. “Being a full brother to Flightline, we wanted to give him all the time he needed to make sure he was fresh and 100 percent,” Brisset said. “We had a couple more works at WinStar and then moved along to Oaklawn. He's coming along slowly but surely. “I'm not sure when he'll have his first start. When we got him last year he was a little bit immature. He is a totally different horse than his brother. Physically, he has developed and matured the right way. But talent-wise we don't know where we're at yet. We should learn more with his next couple of works. Sometime around the beginning of the year would be a logical time frame for his first race. He's going to have to get fit and step it up time wise. We really don't know where we're at.” At the very least he should turn out to be better than Flightline's 4-year-old half brother Voron (Pioneeof the Nile). He sold for $100,000 at the Fasig-Tipton Kentucky Fall Yearling Sale 2020 and is now racing in Russia. The best hope for a Flightline sibling to emulate their famous brother is the unraced 2-year-old Eagle's Flight (Curlin). Lyon had the colt entered in the Keeneland September Sale but withdrew him and will race him. Eagle's Flight has had two workouts at Santa Anita, three furlongs in :37.40 and two furlongs in :23.80. Like Flightline, he is trained by John Sadler. Brisset said he won't be focusing on Eagle's Flight or any other siblings to Flightline that come around. He has a job to do and it is to get the very best out of Olivier. “It's exciting to have a full-brother to Flightline but, at the same time, I'm not feeling much pressure,” he said. “Our job is to figure out this horse and not to compare him to his brother. That can be difficult to translate to the public or to the bettor. We know he is well-bred. We know he is Flightline's brother. But you have to put all of that to the side and try to figure out the horse by himself and on his own. A lot of people ask about him. He's going to turn four and has never run. We felt like he deserves a chance now to see what we have and where he will take us.” The post At Long Last, Flightline’s Full Brother Getting Closer to a Race appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Keeneland has supplemented 58 horses–including the yearling full-sister to undefeated 2023 GI NetJets Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies winner Just F Y I (Justify)–to the 2024 January Horses of All Ages Sale, which will cover four sessions from Jan. 8-11, the organization said in a release Thursday. The auction of broodmares and broodmare prospects, newly turned yearlings, horses of racing age, stallions and stallion prospects, includes Just F Y I's full-sister, who is out of Star Act, a winning SP daughter of Street Cry (Ire). Consigned by Hill 'n' Dale at Xalapa, agent, the filly is from the family of Grade I winners Starrer, Stellar Jayne and Star Billing. Star Act, who is in foal with a full sibling to Just F Y I, was previously announced as being cataloged to the first day of the January Sale. Other standouts from Book 1 announced recently include GSW Hidden Connection (Connect), 2023 GII Flower Bowl S. winner Parnac (Fr) (Zarak {Fr}) and SW Pipit (Quality Road). The group of supplements to Book 1 of the January Sale released today includes these broodmares or racing and broodmare prospects: Airosa, a daughter of Uncle Mo who captured the Catch A Glimpse S. as a juvenile in 2023. Her dam, Mrs. Hudson, by Street Cry (Ire), is a winning half-sister to 'TDN Rising Star' Airosa sells as a racing or broodmare prospect and is consigned by Hill 'n' Dale at Xalapa, agent. Curlin's Voyage is a multiple Canadian champion who is in foal to Flightline. The daughter of Curlin out of Atlantic Voyage, by Stormy Atlantic, is from the family of Grade I winner Stormello. Curlin's Voyage is consigned by Hill 'n' Dale at Xalapa, agent. Dame Marie, dam of recent GII Kentucky Jockey Club S. winner Honor Marie who is in foal to Mandaloun. A GSP daughter of Smart Strike, Dame Marie is consigned by Bluewater Sales, agent. Egyptian Storm, a daughter of Pioneerof the Nile who is a half-sister to leading sire Justify and is in foal to Candy Ride (Arg). Egyptian Storm is consigned by Lane's End Farm. Krazy Kathy, a daughter of Harlan's Holiday who is the dam of SW Bat Flip and is in foal to Good Magic. Krazy Kathy is consigned by Indian Creek, agent. Lady Lowery, a filly by Munnings who has won two of three races, including the Beyond The Wire S. at Laurel Park. From the family of Racing Hall of Famer Dance Smartly and leading sire Smart Strike, she is consigned by Taylor Made Sales Agency, agent, as a racing or broodmare prospect. Marketplace, a winning daughter of Stormy Atlantic who has produced three winners, including SW Dreamer's Disease and is in foal to Justify. Hill 'n' Dale at Xalapa, agent, consigns the mare. Sebago Lake, a daughter of Tapit who is a half-sister to millionaire Grade III winner and Grade I-placed Family Way and is in foal to Justify. From the family of Caravaggio, Sebago Lake is consigned by Eaton Sales, agent. Shan's Tiger, a daughter of Tale of the Cat who is a full sister to champion juvenile filly She's a Tiger and a half-sister to MGISW and millionaire Smiling Tiger and SW Smiling Causeway. Out of SW Shandra Smiles, by Cahill Road, Shan's Tiger is in foal to McKinzie and is consigned by Warrendale Sales, agent. Short yearlings among the supplements include: Filly by Good Magic who is a half-sister to undefeated SW Howl (Practical Joke). Consigned by Castle Park Farm (Noel Murphy), agent, she is out of How, a winning daughter of Indian Charlie; and a colt by Munnings who is a half-brother to Grade II winner Bemma's Boy. Out of Arcing, by Arch, he is consigned by Blandford Stud (Padraig Campion), agent. Additional yearlings being supplemented include progeny of sires such as Game Winner, Maclean's Music and Quality Road. Supplements also include mares in foal to Early Voting, Epicenter, Jack Christopher, Justify, Lexitonian, Munnings, War of Will, Yaupon and more. With the supplements, the total number of horses cataloged to the January Sale is 1,459. Click here to access the catalogue. The post Keeneland Supplements 58 Horses To 2024 January Horses Of All Ages Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Gulfstream Park Horsemen Bookkeeper's office will begin accepting ACH enrollment into the new payment program Friday, Dec. 9, it was announced Thursday. Allowing ACH payments will expedite payment time, reduce paperwork, the likelihood of fraud and improve the overall customer service experience of horsemen. Anyone looking to sign up can pick up and complete ACH forms located within the bookkeeper's office during normal operating hours. The post Gulfstream Park Bookkeeper to Begin Accepting ACH Enrollment appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Phil Aristone, one of the all-time leading trainers at Parx Racing, was suspended 105 days, fined $7,500, and given six penalty points for two horses in his care testing positive for the presence of lamotrigine in post-race testing.View the full article

The Racing Integrity Board conducted routine drug testing at the Matamata Racing Club on Thursday 7 December 2023. Jockeys, track riders, stable hands and trainers were tested. The post Drug testing conducted at Matamata appeared first on RIB. View the full article