Wandering Eyes

Gary Portelli‘s progressive filly Kimochi finally shed her bridesmaid’s tag with a thrilling nose victory in the 2024 Light Fingers Stakes at Randwick, kicking off a potentially lucrative Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival campaign. Kimochi wins 2024 Light Fingers Stakes first-up for breakthrough Black-Type success. Photo: Steve Hart. The talented daughter of Brave Smash, ridden by Jason Collett, edged out the promising Learning To Fly in a heart-stopping finish, avenging frustrating placements in last year’s Princess Series. “That gate was a huge help,” said Collett. “She only had a short let-up too so very good.” Kimochi had been knocking on the door throughout the spring, finishing second in the Group 1 Flight Stakes to Tropical Squall. Today, she showed true grit and determination, refusing to be denied her first major victory. “I tell you, it’s an amazing feeling,” Portelli exclaimed. “She’s got that tenacity, hasn’t she? Love this filly.” Learning To Fly, last year’s Golden Slipper victim of interference, showed immense promise in her return, putting in a strong performance for second. Her stablemate Kristilli rounded out the trifecta, further highlighting the depth of talent on display. With eyes now set on the prestigious $750,000 Surround Stakes on March 2nd, Kimochi faces a tough challenge. However, her Light Fingers Stakes win proves she has the ability to compete at the highest level. 2024 Light Fingers Stakes Results Finish No. Horse Trainer Jockey Margin Bar. Weight Penalty Starting Price 1 1 KIMOCHI Gary Portelli Jason Collett 3 56kg $6.50 2 3 LEARNING TO FLY Annabel Neasham Chad Schofield 0.07L 11 56kg $4.20F 3 5 KRISTILLI Annabel Neasham Zac Lloyd (a) 1.83L 8 56kg $18 4 12 STEFI MAGNETICA Bjorn Baker Joshua Parr 2.26L 9 56kg $26 5 7 FACILE Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou Tim Clark 2.6L 2 56kg $13 6 2 TIZ INVINCIBLE Ciaron Maher James McDonald 2.83L 10 56kg $4.60 7 9 ARCTIC GLAMOUR Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou Kerrin McEvoy 3.09L 7 56kg $6.50 8 6 AUTUMN BALLET Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Adam Hyeronimus 3.96L 1 56kg $14 9 11 KIND WORDS Kris Lees Sam Clipperton 5.38L 5 56kg $81 10 4 MUMBAI MUSE Michael Freedman Tommy Berry 16.33L 4 56kg $6.50 11 13 I’M A STEEL Barbara Joseph, Paul & Matt Jones Dylan Gibbons (a) 18L 6 56kg $81 8 WEST OF DALBY Benjamin Smith Brock Ryan 0 10 BALLROOM BELLA Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou Tyler Schiller 0 Table Credit: Racing Australia. This page and the written content within it were partially generated using AI or automated technology and edited and verified by our editorial team. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. The post Kimochi Breaks Group Maiden Tag in Light Fingers, Eyes Surround Stakes 2024 appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

Imperatriz, Mark Walker‘s champion mare, silenced critics with a powerful victory in the Black Caviar Lightning 2024, silencing doubts after a lacklustre trial. Imperatriz wins the 2024 Black Caviar Lightning as the odds-on favourite first-up at Flemington. Photo: Ultimate Racing Photos. This dominant win marks her ninth Group 1 victory and extends her winning streak to six races. Despite a fifth-place finish in a recent Cranbourne trial, Imperatriz remained the clear favourite at $1.60 to kick off her autumn campaign down under with a win for the punters. Trainer Walker defended her performance, stating, “Good horses save their best for race day.” And save it she did. Jockey Opie Bosson orchestrated a masterful ride, leading from the start and holding off a fierce challenge from Joe Pride‘s Private Eye over the final few hundred metres. Imperatriz showed true grit and class, proving her dominance in Australia’s fastest Group 1 race. “Just a gun ride by Opie today,” Walker praised. “It was a really tactical affair, and he used the initiative.” Chris Waller‘s The Invitation winner Espiona also impressed, finishing a strong third in her first 1000m attempt. This victory continues Imperatriz’s remarkable run, adding to her spring triumphs in the Moir Stakes, Manikato Stakes, and Champions Sprint. :She’s just a gem really to do it in the spring and come back and win like that,” Walker added. “Full credit to the second horse. He’s a really good horse and he stuck it to her today so I think you saw two really good horses fight out an exciting finish.” Next up for Imperatriz remains unclear, but a title defence in the $1 million Group 1 William Reid Stakes (1200m) on March 23rd at Moonee Valley seems likely. She is already the odds-on favourite at $1.80 through Ladbrokes to become the first horse since Apache Cat (2008-09) to win the William Reid Stakes consecutively. 2024 Black Caviar Lightning Results Finish No. Horse Trainer Jockey Margin Bar. Weight Penalty Starting Price 1 4 IMPERATRIZ Mark Walker Opie Bosson 2 56.5kg $1.60F 2 1 PRIVATE EYE Joseph Pride Blake Shinn 0.2L 8 58.5kg $5 3 5 ESPIONA Chris Waller Michael Dee 0.7L 4 56.5kg $26 4 3 BELLA NIPOTINA Ciaron Maher Craig Williams 0.9L 6 56.5kg $12 5 6 RICH FORTUNE Jerome Hunter Mark Zahra 2.4L 1 56.5kg $151 6 7 CYLINDER James Cummings Damian Lane 2.5L 5 55.5kg $18 7 2 THE ASTROLOGIST Leon & Troy Corstens Luke Currie 4.25L 7 58.5kg $81 8 8 I AM UNSTOPPABLE Lloyd Kennewell & Lucy Yeomans Ms Jamie Kah 4.35L 3 55.5kg $6.50 Table Credit: Racing Australia. This page and the written content within it were partially generated using AI or automated technology and edited and verified by our editorial team. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. The post Imperatriz Claims Ninth Group 1 in Thrilling Black Caviar Lightning 2024 Result appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

Pericles winning the Listed Uncle Remus Stakes (1200m) at Ellerslie on Saturday. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) The Pam Gerard and Mike Moroney stable have been enjoying considerable success of late including with class three-year-old Pendragon, however, it was his stablemate of the same age in Pericles who stole the limelight on Saturday with an eye-catching victory in the Listed Horizon Uncle Remus Stakes (1200m) at Ellerslie. Fresh off a victory over 1400m at Pukekohe last month, the strapping son of Rubick was overlooked by punters who allowed him to start at odds of better than +2800 as the fillies Merchant Queen (+250) and Just A Floozie (+220) dominated betting with horse racing betting sites. Merchant Queen sped straight to the front and led at a solid speed as Just A Floozie enjoyed a good trail, with Pericles back in sixth on the outer. Just A Floozie issued her challenge at the 300m and quickly hit the front but was immediately tackled by Pericles out wider, with rider Vinnie Colgan driving him hard to the line as he claimed victory by just over half-a-length from Just A Floozie and the fast finishing No Rain Ever. Gerard admitted the drop back from 1400m was a slight concern for her charge, but he alleviated those fears with a solid performance. “Dropping back to 1200m had me a little worried as this wasn’t quite the right race for him, but it fits in nicely for his next one,” Gerard said. “He has always been a front-runner, but Vinnie was keen to take a sit and it worked out better than we thought it would. “We’ve said for a long time that he is a very good horse, but it has just taken that little bit longer to get there. “I’m super proud for his owners, who have put in so much and he is loved by the staff at home who have done so much work with him.” Pericles will be set for a stakes challenge at his next start with the Group 2 Wellington Guineas (1400m) on March 16 his immediate target. “We will see how he pulls up but we have the Wellington Guineas in line for him, although knowing my luck it will rain as he certainly isn’t a wet tracker,” she said. “Next year is going to be his year and we just have to stop him going to Australia now (to training partner Mike Moroney’s Flemington stable).” Horse racing news View the full article

Aberlour winning the Listed Southland Guineas (1600m). Photo: Monica Toretto Emerging talent Aberlour extended her winning sequence to three and completed a southern Guineas double with a tour de force in Saturday’s Listed Southland Guineas (1600m) at Ascot Park. The Riverton filly had begun her career with a fourth and two thirds, including a third placing during the New Zealand Cup Carnival at Riccarton in November. She broke through with a six-length maiden win on her home track on New Year’s Day, then stepped up to stakes level with a narrow but authoritative long-neck victory in the Listed Gore Guineas (1335m) last month. Trainer Kelvin Tyler bypassed the Listed Dunedin Guineas (1500m) on February 3, believing the 1600m of the Southland Guineas made it an ideal target, and Aberlour proved him right on Saturday with a dominant performance. Aberlour jumped from gate two and jockey Kylie Williams drove her forward, taking the lead inside the first 50m. She dictated terms from there and was travelling easily all the way down the back and side of the Invercargill racecourse. Williams released the brakes at the home turn and Aberlour bounded away, opening up a winning margin of five and a half lengths over Quintabelle and Riviera Rebel. Aberlour has now recorded three wins and two placings from six starts, earning more than $135,000 in stakes. “She was dominant today,” Tyler said. “I went into it thinking she was a very good chance, but she probably ended up being a bit better than I expected, to be honest. “She loved that step up to 1600m today, and I think she’ll go further than that. She’d probably relish the distance of an Oaks (Group 1, 2400m), but I purposely didn’t put her in the nominations for that because I didn’t think she’d quite be ready for it. I just wanted to play the patient game with her. “I think she’s definitely one of the better three-year-old fillies I’ve had come through the stable. She just puts herself in her races, has a high cruising speed and keeps going. She’s exciting.” Tyler had been eyeing up a Listed feature for three-year-old fillies at Wingatui on March 2 as Aberlour’s likely next target, but her blistering performance may prompt a rethink. “If you’d asked me this morning, I probably would have said we’ll go to the Airfreight Stakes (1400m) next and work our way towards the Warstep (Listed, 2000m),” Tyler said. “Now I’m not sure if we stick to that plan, or if she might possibly be a little bit better than that. “I think I’ll let the dust settle on this win and see what happens. I have been tossing up the idea of taking a couple over to Queensland. Maybe she could enter the frame for that.” Horse racing news View the full article

Grinzinger Belle scores a bold victory in the $200,000 Group 3 The Vanity (1400m). Photo: Bruno Cannatelli A decade after saddling New Zealand-bred sprinter Shamexpress for a second placing in the Group 1 Lightning Stakes (1000m) at Flemington, Danny O’Brien returned to the same meeting on Saturday and landed a black-type prize with a daughter of the Windsor Park Stud stallion. Grinzinger Belle overcame a wide gate and double-figure odds to score a bold victory in the $200,000 Group 3 The Vanity (1400m), bringing back some fond memories for her locally based trainer. “We trained Shamexpress to run second in the Lightning a few years ago, so it’s really good to come back with a daughter of his and win another good race on the same day,” O’Brien said. Grinzinger Belle had already shown plenty of ability before Saturday’s black-type breakthrough, winning at Sandown in the spring and placing in the Group 2 Fillies’ Classic (1600m) at Moonee Valley on Cox Plate Day in late October. The Vanity Stakes was her first start since then, and she was rated a +1100 chance after drawing the outside gate in a 12-filly field. But jockey Damian Lane drove her forward from that wide alley and dominated the race from the front, keeping up a strong gallop all the way down the Flemington straight and winning by a length and a quarter. 2024 Group 3 The Vanity Replay – Grinzinger Belle “She’s come back in great order and furnished into a lovely big filly,” Lane said. “She always had the frame there, but didn’t quite have the substance. She’s furnished now and produced a very good performance to win today. Hopefully it’s not her last this autumn. “I thought I might have done a bit much on her early. But because I’d be posted wide and working anyway, I had to bite the bullet and make the decision to go forward. “She’s a high-cruising-speed style of a horse. It was just a matter of whether she could sustain those sectionals. Danny had her spot on today and she did it well.” Grinzinger Belle’s eight-start career has now produced two wins, three placings and $221,955 in stakes. “I’m very happy with that performance,” he said. “She’d trialled up well leading into this, but when I was watching her sectionals today, I wasn’t sure how much petrol was going to be left in the tank. She was very solid right down the straight and it was a good win. “She’s a very big filly and was always going to be better as she developed the strength to carry her frame. “We could have a look at the Australian Guineas (Group 1, 1600m), but the Kewney Stakes (Group 2, 1600m) is the following week and I’d say it’s more likely we’ll stay amongst the fillies for now.” Horse racing news View the full article

Imperatriz gets the better of Private Eye to win the Group 1 Black Caviar Lightning (1000m). Photo: Bruno Cannatelli An unimpressive trial created a touch of uncertainty around Imperatriz ahead of her first-up run in Saturday’s $1 million Group 1 Black Caviar Lightning (1000m) at Flemington, but the Te Akau Racing wonder-mare blew all those doubts away and carried on her winning way. The Lightning was the sixth major Melbourne sprint win in succession for Imperatriz, who won the Group 1 William Reid Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley last March and then put together a perfect spring campaign with victories in the Group 2 McEwen Stakes (1000m), Group 1 Moir Stakes (1000m), Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m) and Group 1 Champions Sprint (1200m). The Lightning was the 18th win overall in a 24-start career for the extraordinary galloper, who has won nine times at Group One level between 1000m and 1600m. The daughter of I Am Invincible was bought by David Ellis for $360,000 as a yearling on the Gold Coast in 2020, and she has now banked more than A$5.9 million for the Te Akau Empress Syndicate. Those achievements have ensured that the class of the five-year-old could never be in doubt, but a fifth placing in an 800m trial at Cranbourne on February 5 had some questioning whether she was at the peak of her powers as she prepared to launch a new campaign in the Lightning. Her performance on Saturday provided an emphatic response. Ridden positively by Opie Bosson, Imperatriz went forward and took up a position at the head of the field. She was joined by the $10 million earner Private Eye, and the pair matched motors most of the way along Flemington’s famous Straight Six. There was a moment in the straight where Private Eye appeared to be going the better of the pair, but Bosson went to work on Imperatriz and she lifted and edged ahead. She reached the finish line a head in front of Private Eye, clocking 57.54 seconds for the 1000m. 2024 Group 1 Black Caviar Lightning Replay – Imperatriz “She was always travelling beautifully,” Bosson said. “The other horse was creeping up and creeping up, but once I went for her, she found that kick that she always has. “There was a bit of pressure today because of that trial, but Mark (Walker, trainer) has been over here and he told me she’s 100 percent. When he says that, he’s usually right.” Walker has fielded plenty of questions about that Cranbourne trial over the last fortnight, and he was pleased that Imperatriz did the talking with her performance on Saturday. “It is a relief,” he said. “Good horses probably save their best for raceday. It was a lacklustre trial, it really was, but we were very happy with the mare when we galloped her on Monday. “It was just a gun ride by Opie today. It was a tactical affair and he used the initiative. “This mare is just a gem, really, to do what she did in the spring and then come back and win like that first-up. “Full credit to the second horse. He’s a really good horse and he stuck it to her today. I think you saw two really good horses fighting out an exciting finish.” Horse racing news View the full article

Kimochi (inside) digs deep to claim Group 2 Light Fingers Stakes. Photo: RacingNSW Kimochi (+550) has finally returned to the winners’ enclosure after getting the head down in a photo finish to claim the Group 2 Light Fingers Stakes at Randwick on Saturday. The daughter of Brave Smash had remained winless since March 2023, heading into the weekend, but found the minor money on all seven occasions since that victory before being tipped out for a spell. The Gary Portelli-trained filly had trailed exceptionally well alongside the eventual runner-up, Learning To Fly (+320) in the lead-up, suggesting she was ready for a first-up tilt. It was a perfect steer by Jason Collett, who had already found a black type victory early in the day with Semana in the Group 3 Triscay Stakes, adding to an outstanding day for the New Zealand hoop. Collett tracked his rivals from a mid-field position as Facile (+1200) bowled along on speed to out some pace into the race, while Learning To Fly and Tiz Invincible (+360) had no choice but to be dragged back from their wider draws. Kristilli (+1700) travelled up three-wide under Zac Lloyd and, at one stage, looked to have the better of his opposition, before the pair of Kimochi and Learning To Fly sat down to fight out the finish. It was the former getting the verdict in the end, gaining a slightly more economical run in transit, while Chad Schofield had to weave a passage when the race went on. Stefi Magnetica (+2500) deserves an honourable mention, running into fourth place and taking a big step up in grade on Saturday. It was a much-deserved win in the end for Kimochi, as a group of patient owners were rewarded with the major portion of the $300,000 prize. 2024 Group 2 Light Fingers Stakes Replay – Kimochi Gary Portelli was on course for the victory and was happy to speak on behalf of his elated team, giving the impression that the Group 1 Surround Stakes (1600m) would be the next major target. “I tell you, it’s an amazing feeling,” exclaimed Portelli. “I thought when the second horse (Learning To Fly) moved up I thought ‘here we go again, it’s going to get beat again.’ I was ready for the sad story, but she fought strongly, and we’re in for a big prep. “She’s got that tenacity, hasn’t she? She’s come off the carpet there; I thought she was gone for sure. I love this filly. “She only had two weeks off after she went deep into the preparation, had to go to Caulfield and try to win a Group 1 there, and ran another second. She hasn’t had much time to furnish, so we’re dealing with the same horse we had when she went for a spell, which is difficult. “But just goes to show we have a great team at home; they are able to keep this filly together and fit on the day.” Jason Collett spoke again post-race and said he looks forward to partnering with Kimochi if they elect to head towards the Surround Stakes. “That gate was a huge help,” said Collett. “She was able to sit a pair closer, whereas last prep we just seemed to be getting there at the line, but just not close enough. Great to come back, she only had a short let-up too so very good. “The Group 1 (Surround Stakes) in two weeks. That’s not my job; I will leave it to Gary (Portelli) to place her, but it does look like a really good option.” Kimochi is currently on the second line of betting at +500 in the Group 1 Surround Stakes market with top online bookmakers. Horse racing news View the full article

Fangirl was breathtaking when claiming the Group 2 Apollo Stakes. Photo: RacingNSW Fangirl (+100) has produced a breathtaking display on Saturday to secure victory in the Group 2 Apollo Stakes (1400m) at Randwick. It was a one-act affair for the returning Chris Waller-trained mare, as the five-year-old torched her rivals in what can only be described as a galloping lesson. James McDonald allowed her to roll towards the back of the field, only leaving one behind her as Cascadian (+1400) missed the start, sitting on the outside of a drifting stablemate Buckeroo (+1600). It was the Sara Ryan-trained Attractable (+850) seeking to make-all from the front, scooting to the lead from stall one, while Lindermann (+600) who saw plenty of late support, ensured they ticked over some decent early sectionals. Think It Over (+600) was able to park just in behind that solid speed, while Militarize (+550) got a lovely mid-field sit with cover throughout the journey to gain the last crack at his older rivals. It was easy to see how well Fangirl was travelling at the top of the straight, as McDonald moved towards the centre of the course, barely asking for an effort from the daughter of Sebring, who put her rivals to bed within a moment. Militarize was asked to respond in kind but was no match for the stablemate and would have to settle for the runner-up spot, while Think It Over, Navajo Peak and Buckaroo all played for the minor money. 2024 Group 2 Apollo Stakes Replay – Fangirl Fangirl was simply sensational, and while keeping his emotions in check, Chris Waller was on course to talk about his mare’s dynamic return and where to next. “She’s come back very well, we won’t get too far ahead of ourselves” said Waller. “It’s good to see a few people actually appreciating who she is. That’s a good little feeling when they come back like that and they get appreciated by the crowd. “The last 12 months she’s come back better. What we saw in the King Charles was pretty special and she’s the real deal and obviously come back very well. “She’ll go to the Chipping Norton. Probably come back to the George Ryder and then the Queen Elizabeth. “I’ve just got to go back and see what other horses have done in the past, that’s what I’ve always done throughout my career. Respecting history and those that have done it well before me.” James McDonald gave an outstanding appraisal of his mount, suggesting Fangirl will take plenty of beating this time in. “She’s come back in beautiful order and dare I say it, it will take a good one to beat her this prep,” said McDonald. “It felt like I was on Dundeel in the Derby again. Just sidle up the rise and basically felt like an exhibition gallop really for her. She’s come back in great order, it was just a matter of getting her into her rhythm and she does the rest. “She’s just a beautiful mare and well-named, beautiful colours on her.” Fangirl has been smashed in the Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m) market and is currently a $1.50 favourite with top online bookmakers. Horse racing news View the full article

Mauritian jockey is back in top form just over a year after there were fears a thyroid condition could derail his careerView the full article

Veteran trainer saddles seven runners on Sunday’s 10-race card, including last-start placegetters Gummy Gummy, Speedy Smartie and James TakView the full article

Chris Waller‘s champion mare Fangirl cemented her dominance with a commanding victory in the 2024 Apollo Stakes, leaving rivals in her dust at Sydney’s Randwick Racecourse. Fangirl wins the 2024 Apollo Stakes first-up ahead of the Group 1 autumn majors. Photo: Steve Hart. The multiple Group 1 winner showcased her brilliance, easily conquering the field in a scintillating performance fresh off her latest break. This dominant win marks Waller’s sixth Apollo Stakes victory, rekindling memories of his 2019 triumph with the legendary Winx. After finishing third in last year’s race, Fangirl returned with a vengeance, delivering one of her most polished performances yet. Following a fourth-place finish in the Champions Mile last spring, Fangirl relished her return to Sydney, replicating her dominant display in the inaugural King Charles III Stakes last year. “She’s come back very well, we won’t get too far ahead of ourselves. It’s good to see a few people actually appreciating who she is. That’s a good little feeling when they come back like that and they get appreciated by the crowd,” Waller told the media. “The last 12 months she’s come back better. What we saw in the King Charles was pretty special and she’s the real deal and obviously come back very well.” With masterful jockey James McDonald at the helm, Fangirl patiently waited before unleashing her power in the final stages, swallowing the leading pack and securing a clear 2.39 length victory. “She’s come back in beautiful order and dare I say it, it will take a good one to beat her this prep,” McDonald said of Fangirl . Waller further bolstered his success with a quinella finish, as his talented three-year-old Militarize secured a commendable second place. Third place went to the ever-consistent Think It Over, trained by Kerry Parker. This victory sets the stage for an exciting season for Fangirl, with all eyes now on her quest for a historic double. She leads the all-in betting for the $1 million Verry Elleegant Stakes (formerly the Chipping Norton Stakes), scheduled for March 2nd at Randwick. Anamoe, in 2023, was the last horse to achieve this feat before the Group 1 race was renamed in honour of Waller’s champion mare, Verry Elleegant. With odds already heavily favouring her at $1.90 through Ladbrokes, Fangirl seems poised to continue her reign and cement her legacy as one of the greatest Australian racehorses. 2024 Apollo Stakes Results Finish No. Horse Trainer Jockey Margin Bar. Weight Penalty Starting Price 1 8 FANGIRL Chris Waller James McDonald 7 57kg $2.10F 2 10 MILITARIZE (NZ) Chris Waller Kerrin McEvoy 2.39L 4 55.5kg $6.50 3 1 THINK IT OVER Kerry Parker Nash Rawiller 2.8L 6 59kg $7.50 4 6 NAVAJO PEAK David Payne Jason Collett 3.03L 9 59kg $41 5 4 BUCKAROO (GB) Chris Waller Tommy Berry 3.23L 5 59kg $17 6 7 LINDERMANN Chris Waller Tim Clark 3.44L 3 59kg $7 7 3 ARAPAHO (FR) Bjorn Baker Joshua Parr 3.75L 2 59kg $101 8 5 ATTRACTABLE Sara Ryan Regan Bayliss 3.91L 1 59kg $9 9 2 CASCADIAN (GB) James Cummings Zac Lloyd (a) 5.58L 8 59kg $16 9 SEMANA Ciaron Maher Dylan Gibbons (a) 0 Table Credit: Racing Australia. This page and the written content within it were partially generated using AI or automated technology and edited and verified by our editorial team. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. The post Fangirl Reigns Supreme in 2024 Apollo Stakes Return, Eyes Group 1s Next appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

By Jonny Turner Punters shouldn’t put much stock into Da Vinci’s winning run over summer ending ahead of the Gore Summer Cup on Sunday. A last-start seventh might not look like the typical form reference of a next-up winner but trainer-driver Craig Ferguson thinks it can be. Da Vinci ended an outstanding four-race winning spree with a last-start seventh in the Amberley Cup at Rangiora. Though beaten, getting back on the tight-turning and leader-dominated Rangiora grass surface means Da Vinci’s last-start run is best forgotten. “He seems to be in a really good space at the moment,” Ferguson said. “All his last few runs have been really good, there’s a bit of a gap in his form, he ran seventh.” “But he had four wins prior to that and he went a really good race up at Rangiora.” “He just got too far back, so I couldn’t be happier with him, really.” Da Vinci shares the 40m back mark in Sunday’s Gore Summer Cup with One Change, who was second in the recent Waikouaiti Cup, also on grass. 10m marker Hacksaw Ridge and front marker Brookies Player look the main threats to the two back markers. Brookies Player will defend his Gore Summer Cup title from 2023 following an excellent last-start fourth in the Wairio Cup. Craig Ferguson starts one other runner on the Gore grass in Netherton Franco while he also combines with a handy book of outside drives on Sunday. Among them is Foxfire Easton, who is among a strong team entered by trainer Brett Gray. Gray is hopeful Foxfire Easton can improve on his form when debuting for his stable in race 6. “I think he could be a smoky in this field.” “He has trialled well and he has worked well, it is up to the gods, I don’t know a lot more about him.” Gray also starts Takeitout, who produced a stirring trial effort following a freshener after taking on top-line fillies at Group 1 level in December. The mare resumes in race 1, Sunday’s Southern Belle Speed Series heat. “Since that trip to Christchurch and a bit of hard racing I have been really happy with her,” Gray said. Pounamu ran to an eight-length victory in his last-start victory on grass in the Gray colours. Though the pacer steps up in grade, he does so at a time when he seems to be on an upward trajectory. “This horse seems really well, he seems to have grown a leg and his work has gone up a notch.” “It is going to be interesting how he measures up.” Gray also has Julie Jaccka returning to racing in Sunday’s trotting feature after Group One tilts at Addington. The mare has the advantage of starting from the front line in the Gore Summer Trotting Cup. “We are really happy with her work.” “She has been working a treat, I think she might need this run, she takes a few runs to come up but she will be close enough.” Maui is set to start favourite in the trotting feature after producing an excellent run of form in grass track features this summer. View the full article

Three weeks after announcing her arrival among the season’s elite three-year-olds in breathtaking style on Karaka Millions night, Orchestral treated Ellerslie to an encore in Saturday’s Gr.2 Eagle Technology Avondale Guineas (2100m). The exciting Savabeel filly had blown her rivals away by three and a half lengths in last month’s $1.5 million TAB Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m), and the step up to 2100m on Saturday produced something every bit as impressive. Orchestral was sent out as a $1.50 favourite in the hands of jockey Craig Grylls, and the race could hardly have been scripted any better. She enjoyed a comfortable run in sixth, one off the rail, as High Country set a genuine pace out in front. Grylls made his move with 500m remaining, swooping around the outside and looming widest of all at the home turn. Orchestral bounded up alongside Just As Sharp at the 300m mark, and for the next 100m, that rival fought back bravely and provided a stern challenge. But then Orchestral changed gears, powering ahead and opening up a winning margin of four lengths. “That was very good,” Grylls said. “We got a perfect run, about four back and one off. There was good speed on and she relaxed beautifully, which was great to see in her first time up over ground. “She got to Just As Sharp very easily in the straight. From about the 200m to the finish post, it felt like she was getting quicker and quicker every 50m or so. “She wanted to keep going past the line too and would hardly blow a candle out now, which is a good sign for the step up to the Derby trip. It’s exciting.” Orchestral’s spectacular performance has tightened her hold on favouritism for the Gr.1 Trackside New Zealand Derby (2400m) at Ellerslie on March 2. The TAB already rated her a $2.60 favourite before the Avondale Guineas, and they have since slashed that quote to $1.40. Orchestral’s co-trainer Roger James has a proud record in the Derby, winning it with Tidal Light (1986), Roysyn (1995), Zonda (1997), Hades (1999) and Silent Achiever (2012). The respected horseman liked what he saw on Saturday. “Her owners, Colin and Helen Litt, have been loyal supporters of our stable for a long time,” he said. “We’ve gone to the sales with great ambition on a number of occasions, but haven’t always come away with the results. But at this stage, this filly is looking like she might be one out of the box. We have to recognise that and treat her accordingly, and hopefully we can do all we can to optimise this ability that she has. “It was a pretty special performance today. Looking at the head-on replay, it’s great to see that she was galloping lovely and true out on her own down the straight. “It was very pleasing to see that the race was run at a genuine pace. I’ve always been a great advocate for pace in a race, and it ensures that the best horse wins. I noticed that she was very strong past the line as well, which was another good sign from a Derby point of view.” James and his training partner Robert Wellwood paid $625,000 to buy Orchestral from Haunui Farm’s draft in Book 1 of Karaka 2022. Her seven-start career has now produced four wins, two seconds and $977,175 in stakes. Saturday’s runner-up Just As Sharp remains at $10 in the New Zealand Derby market, while Australian raider Interlinked produced an eye-catching run into third and has shortened from $18 into $8. View the full article

A decade after saddling New Zealand-bred sprinter Shamexpress for a second placing in the Gr.1 Lightning Stakes (1000m) at Flemington, Danny O’Brien returned to the same meeting on Saturday and landed a black-type prize with a daughter of the Windsor Park Stud stallion. Grinzinger Belle overcame a wide gate and double-figure odds to score a bold victory in the A$200,000 Gr.3 The Vanity (1400m), bringing back some fond memories for her locally based trainer. “We trained Shamexpress to run second in the Lightning a few years ago, so it’s really good to come back with a daughter of his and win another good race on the same day,” O’Brien said. O’Brien trained Shamexpress through a 19-start career that produced three wins, five placings and more than A$1 million in stakes, headed by a victory in the Gr.1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) and Group One placings in the Lightning, the Sprint Classic (1200m) and the Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m). The O’Reilly stallion retired to Windsor Park Stud in 2014 and has been credited with 141 winners from 212 runners. Grinzinger Belle became his 10th individual stakes winner on Saturday, joining a group headed by Group One winner Coventina Bay. Grinzinger Belle had already shown plenty of ability before Saturday’s black-type breakthrough, winning at Sandown in the spring and placing in the Gr.2 Fillies’ Classic (1600m) at Moonee Valley on Cox Plate Day in late October. The Vanity Stakes was her first start since then, and she was rated a $12 chance after drawing the outside gate in a 12-filly field. But jockey Damian Lane drove her forward from that wide alley and dominated the race from the front, keeping up a strong gallop all the way down the Flemington straight and winning by a length and a quarter. “She’s come back in great order and furnished into a lovely big filly,” Lane said. “She always had the frame there, but didn’t quite have the substance. She’s furnished now and produced a very good performance to win today. Hopefully it’s not her last this autumn. “I thought I might have done a bit much on her early. But because I’d be posted wide and working anyway, I had to bite the bullet and make the decision to go forward. “She’s a high-cruising-speed style of a horse. It was just a matter of whether she could sustain those sectionals. Danny had her spot on today and she did it well.” Grinzinger Belle’s eight-start career has now produced two wins, three placings and A$221,955 in stakes. “I’m very happy with that performance,” he said. “She’d trialled up well leading into this, but when I was watching her sectionals today, I wasn’t sure how much petrol was going to be left in the tank. She was very solid right down the straight and it was a good win. “She’s a very big filly and was always going to be better as she developed the strength to carry her frame. “We could have a look at the Australian Guineas (Gr.1, 1600m), but the Kewney Stakes (Gr.2, 1600m) is the following week and I’d say it’s more likely we’ll stay amongst the fillies for now.” Grinzinger Belle was bred by Windsor Park Stud and is out of Ripsomemore, a Rip Van Winkle half-sister to Group Three winner Golden Parachute. The progressive filly is another good graduate of the New Zealand Bloodstock Book 2 Yearling Sale, where she was purchased by owner John Wheeler for $32,000. View the full article

The Pam Gerard and Mike Moroney stable have been enjoying considerable success of late including with class three-year-old Pendragon, however, it was his stablemate of the same age in Pericles who stole the limelight on Saturday with an eye-catching victory in the Listed SKYCITY Horizon Uncle Remus Stakes (1200m) at Ellerslie. Fresh off a victory over 1400m at Pukekohe last month, the strapping son of Rubick was overlooked by punters who allowed him to start at odds of better than $29 as the fillies Merchant Queen ($3.50) and Just A Floozie ($3.20) dominated betting. Merchant Queen sped straight to the front and led at a solid speed as Just A Floozie enjoyed a good trail, with Pericles back in sixth on the outer. Just A Floozie issued her challenge at the 300m and quickly hit the front but was immediately tackled by Pericles out wider, with rider Vinnie Colgan driving him hard to the line as he claimed victory by just over half-a-length from Just A Floozie and the fast finishing No Rain Ever. Gerard admitted the drop back from 1400m was a slight concern for her charge, but he alleviated those fears with a solid performance. “Dropping back to 1200m had me a little worried as this wasn’t quite the right race for him, but it fits in nicely for his next one,” Gerard said. “He has always been a front-runner, but Vinnie was keen to take a sit and it worked out better than we thought it would. “We’ve said for a long time that he is a very good horse, but it has just taken that little bit longer to get there. “I’m super proud for his owners, who have put in so much and he is loved by the staff at home who have done so much work with him.” Pericles will be set for a stakes challenge at his next start with the Gr.2 Wellington Guineas (1400m) on March 16 his immediate target. “We will see how he pulls up but we have the Wellington Guineas in line for him, although knowing my luck it will rain as he certainly isn’t a wet tracker,” she said. “Next year is going to be his year and we just have to stop him going to Australia now (to training partner Mike Moroney’s Flemington stable).” Carrying the familiar Fletcher tartan colours of part-owner Hugh Flecher, Pericles was bred by Kevin Hickman and was purchased for $110,000 by Paul Moroney Bloodstock and Ballymore Stables from the Pencarrow Stud Book 1 draft at Karaka in 2021. His dam Empyrean is a daughter of the mighty mare Ethereal who won eight races, with four at Group One level, including both the 2001 Gr.1 Melbourne Cup (3200m) and Gr.1 Caulfield Cup (2400m). View the full article

Jason Collett steers Semana to an impressive victory at Randwick. Photo: RacingNSW Semana (+340) has launched at her rivals to claim the Group 3 Triscay Stakes (1200m) at Randwick on Saturday afternoon, continuing to build on an impressive return for the Ciaron Maher barn. She was excellent first-up at Wyong on December 13 before heading to the Gold Coast on January 13, putting on a gutsy display to score by two lengths in the Listed Magic Millions Cup (1400m). Jason Collett showed plenty of confidence in his mare tackling Group level for the first time in her four-year career, taking a mid-field sit to remain on the outside of race favourite Olentia (+160). It was the Matthew Dale-trained Penthouse ($9.00) leading them up on a strong temp throughout the 1400m, while Either Oar (+900) wanted to put herself in the firing line early doors. The Melbourne raider C’est Magique (+400) was able to gain the perfect economical run just in behind the leading pair and seemingly got every chance to let down under Tim Clark. When the whips were cracking, Jason Collett pulled Semana to the middle of the course, while Tommy Berry on Olentia attempted to sneak along the inside running rail, possibly stopping her momentum at a crucial stage. It was Semana, however, who would be the beneficiary, going on to score an impressive half-length victory and adding some additional black type to her already glowing resume. 2024 Group 3 Triscay Stakes Replay – Semana Stable representative Johann Gerard-Dubord spoke on behalf of the Ciaron Maher stable and spoke to the quality win before giving mention to the Group 1 Coolmore Classic (1500m) would be the next major target. “She’s going well,” said Gerard-Dubord. “Obviously she was very good in Queensland. Gave her a bit of off time after that. Back in trip today, lovely ride from Jason (Collett). It’s good after he had an earlier incident on a horse on Wednesday (Growing Empire falling at Randwick-Kensington). “He’s fine, good to have him on, lovely ride. She just keeps delivering, it doesn’t matter what the track is, what the distance is, where we ride her, she’s just a good horse. “Hopefully there’s a bit more in store too. Taking her to the Coolmore Classic in four weeks time. It’s a handicap, the distance will suit and four weeks in between runs will be ideal.” Jason Collett was delighted with the effort and credited the tactics throughout contributing to the victory. “Ridden a bit quieter and her turn of foot seems to be pretty electric and powerful,” said Collett. “Obviously dropping back to the 12(00m) today we were pretty sure that she would run it strong. So when I was in the position I was, I was quite happy to get out and get going a bit early. “I had plenty of horse which is a good feeling that’s for sure. So I knew I had a strong finish and to see where the favourite (Olentia) was underneath, I was pretty happy.” Semana is currently listed as a +1000 chance with top online bookmakers in the Group 1 Coolmore Classic (1500m) on March 16. Horse racing news View the full article

Soaring high, King Of Sparta cemented his claim for April’s prestigious $5 million The Quokka with a thrilling victory in Sydney’s Group 2 Expressway Stakes 2024. The win marks back-to-back triumphs for Team Snowden’s talented sprinter, solidifying his credentials as a force to be reckoned with. King Of Sparta wins the 2024 Expressway Stakes in Sydney. Photo: Steve Hart. After a five-week break, the I Am Invincible gelding unleashed a barnstorming late run in the $300,000 Expressway Stakes (1200m), leaving his rivals trailing in his wake. This commanding victory echoes his dominant performance at the Gold Coast, where he secured a two-length victory in the $1 million Magic Millions Sprint just weeks prior. “He’s in great form. As we’ve handled him the last few years it’s really working with him. Little breaks in between, less is more for him. He’s certainly paying us the dividends now,” co-trainer Paul Snowden said. The key to King Of Sparta’s triumph lay in James McDonald’s masterful ride. The champion jockey patiently waited before unleashing the gelding’s raw power in the final furlong, reeling in his rivals with ease. “I was actually (confident),” McDonald told the media after the commanding win. “Lobbed into a lovely spot and the pace really quickened from the 600m. “I just had to bide my time a little bit and he come up the rise under his own steam even though I was spotting them so far. “He’s got a lethal turn of foot. He’s just a good horse, he’s so solid.” While Bjorn Baker‘s Malkovich set a blistering pace initially, fading in the final stages. The highly-anticipated return of Buenos Noches proved disappointing, with the odds-on favourite finishing well off the pace in his first-up run. Coal Crusher, trained by Joe Pride, emerged as a strong contender, pushing King Of Sparta until the very end. Ultimately, the flashing finish belonged to King Of Sparta, with Coal Crusher securing a commendable second place. Malkovich held on for a minor placing, while the favourite finished out of the money. With this victory, King Of Sparta solidifies his position in The Quokka, scheduled for April 20 in Western Australia. Currently priced at $8 at Ladbrokes having already secured a slot in the second edition of the event, he stands as a serious contender for the lucrative Ascot feature. 2024 Expressway Stakes Results Finish No. Horse Trainer Jockey Margin Bar. Weight Penalty Starting Price 1 1 KING OF SPARTA Peter & Paul Snowden James McDonald 2 57.5kg $4 2 2 COAL CRUSHER Joseph Pride Tyler Schiller 0.42L 5 57.5kg $10 3 6 MALKOVICH Bjorn Baker Joshua Parr 0.76L 4 56kg $13 4 4 BUENOS NOCHES Matthew Smith Nash Rawiller 1.42L 6 56.5kg (cd 57kg) $1.75F 5 5 STRAIT ACER Edward Cummings Tommy Berry 3.82L 3 56kg $17 6 7 WEST OF DALBY Benjamin Smith Brock Ryan 4.66L 7 51kg $51 7 3 GOLDEN MILE James Cummings Zac Lloyd (a) 5.54L 1 57.5kg $11 Table Credit: Racing Australia. This page and the written content within it were partially generated using AI or automated technology and edited and verified by our editorial team. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. The post King Of Sparta Reigns Supreme in 2024 Expressway Stakes, Eyes The Quokka Riches appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

King Of Sparta finished best to claim the Group 2 Expressway Stakes. Photo: RacingNSW James McDonald and the Peter & Paul Snowden camp have combined with King Of Sparta (+320) storming home to claim the Group 2 Expressway Stakes (1200m) at Randwick on Saturday afternoon. The writing was on the wall after a last start romp at the Gold Coast in the Magic Millions Sprint (1200) as the son of I Am Invincible cleared out on his rivals by the better part of two lengths on the wire. The margin wasn’t quite as dominant on Saturday, but was similarly impressive, as James McDonald placed the five-year-old in the perfect stalking position throughout the 1200m journey. Malkovich (+1300) was always going to ensure a strong tempo, and he did just that, scorching to the front under Joshua Parr, attempting to make every post a winner. Coal Crusher (+900) showed his customary early toe to get on the back of the early leader, while the short-priced favourite Buenos Noches (-142.86) was in another postcode with 500m left to travel. When the sprint went on, there was only one runner you wanted to be on, as King Of Sparta at close enough throughout to put himself in striking distance, then obliging under James McDonald when asked for the ultimate effort. It was a strong return by Coal Crusher, bounding into the quinella spot, while Buenos Noches would miss out on the trifecta spot despite closing off impressively from last turning for home. It was all honours to the winner in the end though, as King Of Sparta added career win number eight to the resume. 2024 Group 2 Expressway Stakes Replay – King Of Sparta Co-trainer Paul Snowden was on course and revelled in the success of his talented gelding, with the Quokka seemingly the grand final for King Of Sparta in the near future. “He’s in great form,” said Snowden. “As we’ve handled him the last few years it’s really working with him. Little breaks in between, less is more for him. He’s certainly paying us the dividends now. “It’s a juggling act I suppose. How we want to prepare him to get him over there (Western Australia) in as good a order as we can. “We’ll make that call probably in the next week or so but maybe just a trial. Obviously we’ve got to compensate with the plane trip over. “It’s really exciting for the ownership group and exciting for the horse to race for really good money. I know he’s been a great money-spinner for them, but it’s going to be a good trip away.” Jockey James McDonald was asked how confident he was aboard his mount when turning for home, and the star hoop gave a glowing opinion. “I was actually,” said McDonald. “Lobbed into a lovely spot and the pace really quickened from the 600m. I just had to bide my time a little bit and he come up the rise under his own steam even though I was spotting them so far. “He’s got a lethal turn of foot. He’s just a good horse, he’s so solid.” King Of Sparta is now on the third line for The Quokka, marked as a +400 hope with top horse racing bookmakers. Horse racing news View the full article

Jockey points to successful formula helping Find My Love strike his best form in Sunday’s Class Two TVB Cup (1,400m) at Sha TinView the full article

Locked, one of the early favorites for the May 4 Kentucky Derby (G1) at Churchill Downs, breezes a half-mile in :49.68 Feb. 16 at Palm Beach Downs, his first workout since Jan. 26 for Hall of Fame trainer Todd Pletcher.View the full article

Grade 1 winner Timberlake registered his fifth breeze Feb. 16 since resuming training for Brad Cox at Fair Grounds Race Course. Timberlake is scheduled to make his sophomore debut in Oaklawn Park's Rebel Stakes (G2) Feb. 24. View the full article

Edited Press Release Awards are on the way to Kentucky's Thoroughbred breeders participating in the commonwealth's Thoroughbred Breeders' Incentive Fund (KTBIF) program. The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) announces the release of $16.2 million through the KTBIF. “Our horse farm families are the backbone of our racing industry, and I'm proud to support the Incentive Fund that keeps mares and foals in Kentucky,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. According to the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association, the Kentucky Equine industry generates $6.5 billion and supports more than 60,000 jobs. In fact, 2023 was a good year for business. Highlights include: Kentucky-bred horses won 63% of all graded stakes races in the U.S. Kentucky-bred horses won 298 graded stakes races with 68 of them held at one of Kentucky's five Thoroughbred racetracks. Kentucky-bred horses have won the last nine Kentucky Derbies and last seven Kentucky Oaks. Kentucky-bred horses took home the hardware in all three legs of the Triple Crown: Mage (Good Magic) won the Kentucky Derby; National Treasure (Quality Road) won the Preakness and Arcangelo (Arrogate) won the Belmont S. Pretty Mischievous (Into Mischief) won the Kentucky Oaks. Kentucky-bred Cody's Wish (Curlin) won the 2023 Horse of the Year Eclipse Award Winner. Mage and Pretty Mischievous both will receive a $50,000 KTBIF bonus. The KTBIF was implemented in 2005 to ensure the strength of Kentucky's equine industry by awarding funds to individuals who choose to breed a Thoroughbred mare in Kentucky. To qualify, the mare must be bred to a Kentucky registered stallion, remain in the state during her full gestation and foal in Kentucky. Final award amounts are then based on the foal's eventual earnings at the racetrack. The KTBIF is funded through a percentage of the sales tax paid when a stallion is bred to a mare in Kentucky. Since the fund's inception, more than $234 million has been distributed to Kentucky breeders for winning eligible races worldwide. A list of the 2023 award winners, along with the amount awarded and other interesting statistics, can be found on the KHRC website by clicking here. The post KTBIF Awards Over $16 Million to Kentucky Breeders for 2023 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Given a letter-perfect steer by the veteran Gerald Mosse, the Ian Williams-trained Parlando (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}) bested a dozen others to win Friday's Vision 2030 by Beyon handicap over the 2000 metres by a length and with it, took home the $40,000 bonus prize for the Bahrain Turf Series, which concluded Friday at Sakhir. The 5-year-old gelding, rated 86, was produced late to defeat the Hugo Palmer-conditioned, two-time series pointsgetter Box To Box (Ire) (Kodiac {GB}), rated on 92 and giving three kilos to the eventual winner. It was Parlando's first win since carrying William Buick to a debut victory at Leicester back in October 2021. The bay was sold on by his breeder Godolphin for £105,000 at the 2023 Tattersalls Ascot March Sale and was placed four times in as many starts in England ahead of his Bahrain campaign. Both Parlando and Box To Box ended on 28 points, but the former had the tiebreaker by virtue of his victory Friday. “I had the ridden the horse once before so I knew him,” Mosse said. “He travelled really nice and I was biding my time, as I knew he would finish well. If you ride him too close to the pace, he will do too much. Today he was relaxed in behind and when I pressed the button, he was ready to answer.” Added Harvey Williams, assistant to and son of trainer Ian Williams: “We're so happy with that result, really delighted. And to have won the Bahrain Turf Series bonus prize is great news. We will definitely be back next year!” WATCH: Parlando races away in the Vision 2030 by Beyon handicap Brazen Bolt (GB) (Brazen Beau {Aus}), trained by John and Sean Quinn, could only manage sixth in the Al Sakhir Cup handicap, but he had amassed an insurmountable lead courtesy of a win and a second-place finish in the first two legs of the sprint series and finished well clear of the remainder on 41 points. Friday's contest up the 1000-metre straight course was taken out by stablemate Jm Jungle (Ire) (Bungle Inthejungle {GB}). The afternoon's richest affair, the $135,000 Sheikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa Cup, was won by a widening four-length margin by the season's most-improved galloper Isle of Jura (GB) (New Approach {Ire}). The full-brother to multiple Australian Group 1 winner Cascadian (GB) was adding to his recent success in the Listed Crown Prince's Cup and all things equal, he will make his next start in the Mar. 8 King's Cup. “That was a flawless performance. Roll on the King's Cup!” said his jockey Callum Shephard. WATCH: Isle of Jura dominates again in Bahrain The post Parlando Scoops Bahrain Turf Series Bonus appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Californians Eric "Rick" Waller and his wife, Sharon, have experienced thrilling moments since entering racing in the 1990s as owners and breeders, but they've also suffered deep losses, the kind that can't be measured by noses, heads, or lengths. View the full article

Owner Mick Ruis Sr. is reducing stock and is considering selling the Blackwood Stables training center as well. He bought the training center last October but said now he needs a "bit of a break" from breeding and racing. View the full article