Wandering Eyes

The ownership group that wants to buy the currently closed Turf Paradise is reportedly at the escrow stage of closing on the sale, but a projected Jan. 13 opening day was met with skepticism when the prospective majority buyer was pressed to name a start date at Thursday's Arizona Racing Commission (AZRC) meeting. “At this point where we're at, and not having the complete [new ownership] application, there may be a delay from January moving forward,” said Rudy Casillas, the deputy director of the AZRC's racing division, told commissioners after brief comments by Richard Moore, the chief executive officer for potential buyer Turf Paradise Land Trust. Casillas cited both the commission's own lengthy approval process for a new track licensee and what he said was a federal requirement imposed by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA) that stipulates “a 90-day advance notice from any track before their implementation of racing.” “Racing may not start until February or March depending on how things go with the vetting and background investigation,” Casillas said. Lloyd Yother, the president of the Arizona Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (AZHBPA), expressed a feeling of being left out of the loop on the status of what might happen at the last remaining commercially active track on a circuit that hasn't hosted Thoroughbred racing for six months. “We're still in our state of confusion in how things are going down and what's transpiring, what's taking place,” Yother said. “There's so many moving targets [and] we still are at the mercy and going through our normal frustrations with how things are to come about…. We have no earthly idea when and if a meet will be performed at Turf Paradise.” Despite that sense of helplessness, the AZHBPA does have one important cudgel of control within its grasp: Its board of directors will be meeting Friday to vote on whether to extend the required interstate simulcasting permissions beyond Nov. 12 so Turf Paradise's 37 off-track betting parlors won't go dark. Yother said that meeting will determine “whether or not to terminate our signal [permission] or move it forward to [Dec. 31] giving the opportunity for all parties to get their act together and make this happen.” The vote will likely come down to weighing the benefits of keeping the OTBs open (which would allow the new Turf Paradise owner to build up revenue for the purse account) versus closing them (which would make it clear that the AZHBPA has had it with constantly being asked to extend simulcasting privileges to entities that don't conduct live racing). Turf Paradise ended its racing season back in May with a different buyer doing due diligence to purchase the property. On Aug. 1, track owner Jerry Simms announced Turf Paradise wouldn't be opening in November as scheduled for its traditional six-month meet. On Sept. 18, the months-long purported sale with the first buyer was publicly declared dead. Then 10 days later, Simms announced a new buyer had suddenly emerged with a desire to purchase the 213-acre property and save racing at the 67-year-old track. The AZRC met on Sept. 28 and Oct. 12 without anyone from the new prospective buying group speaking in person. But during the Nov. 9 meeting, Simms introduced Moore of Turf Paradise Land Trust, noting that the two parties have been at the escrow stage of the deal since Oct. 18. “We're going through that contract and executing that contract and hopefully everything goes well and we're going to buy the track and continue on with the racing there in Arizona,” Moore said. “That's our main goal.” “We're very excited about this,” Moore said. “We're looking forward to it. And we're getting up to speed on where it's at [to] bring the track up to par and to also make it better and to move forward. And we're definitely committed to bring in the necessary funds and commitment and support to make this a destination. And we have a lot of dreams and hopes and things that we'd like to accomplish once we gain ownership.” The Arizona Corporations Commission's website lists no active registration for Turf Paradise Land Trust other than a name reservation made on Oct. 2. Beyond one question from commissioner Linda York about specifics on the buying group's timetable, Moore was not asked by the AZRC to detail anything about Turf Paradise Land Trust or its plans for the future of the Phoenix track. Starting Gate at Turf Paradise | Coady Photography York's question about the timing of the meet yielded a response from Moore that the season is projected to start Jan. 13 and would last “to May.” Moore added that the sale of the property would likely close before the end of 2023. After Casillas weighed in that such a timetable might be a stretch, Simms told commissioners that he has already been in talks with the HISA Authority about fast-tracking the process for accreditation, and he claimed to have an assurance that “they could probably get that done a lot quicker [to] work with our time frames.” Turf Paradise has plagued by safety issues in recent seasons, and as recently as the Oct. 12 commission meeting, Simms and Yother sparred over whether or not extensive repairs are needed for the main track rail. Yother claimed the fencing is not up to spec and Simms countered that Turf Paradise had fixed problems related to a non-compliance warning issued by the HISA Authority earlier this year after an inspection turned up “numerous gaps and exposed edges in the railing material that could inflict serious harm upon jockeys…” At the Nov. 9 meeting, Arizona's chief state steward, Jason Hart, said he has been making regular visits to Turf Paradise over the past few weeks. Although Hart acknowledged that the rail had been “in pretty bad shape” at end of the last meet, he said every time he has visited since Oct. 23, he has observed workers shoring it up. “My expertise or my opinion would be the rail looks very safe at this point,” Hart said. “There's a couple of things that don't look pretty with the rail, but it is absolutely safe in my opinion.” Hart added that the turf course well pump has been fixed, and that the grass course is being watered regularly after being seeded and fertilized. Hart also detailed how six barns have had the copper wiring cut out of them, but that he has been assured by current track management that electricians have been hired to re-wire those stables. Hart also said frontside windows that appeared to have been blown out in a storm show evidence of being worked on prior to glass replacement. The post AZHBPA: ‘No Earthly Idea When And If A Meet Will Be Performed At Turf Paradise’ appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Kentucky Derby (G1) winner Mage, who missed the Nov. 4 BC Classic (G1) due to what his connections said was a fever, is being pointed to a 2024 campaign with one early option being the Pegasus World Cup Invitational (G1) Jan. 27 at Gulfstream Park.View the full article

James Cummings added another VRC Oaks (G1) success to his family's honor roll when Godolphin filly Zardozi (AUS) produced a resounding victory in the Nov. 9 feature at Flemington.View the full article

In one of the last graded turf events of the year in Kentucky, the $300,000 River City Stakes (G3T) at Churchill Downs, Rockemperor and Cellist have a chance to end the autumn season on a high note before winter racing begins.View the full article

By Mike Love John Howe takes a team of six to Rangiora today. The West Melton trainer admits his team will need to put it together, but suggests they are all capable on their day. In Race one Desert Royal ($16.00FF) kicks off the day in the maiden trot, with Robbie Close to drive. “She’s got a bit of talent, but not quite 100% in the zone. She will get wins on the board at some stage.” Howe doubles up in race four with Sea Jay ($21.00FF) for Robbie Close and O’Hara ($51.00FF) for Tim Williams. Sea Jay had been trialling well before a fair debut performance on the grass at Methven. “She’s got a bit of speed. But she just needs to strengthen up a little.” O’Hara also debuted at Methven, making an early mistake with her effort taking its toll thereafter. However, she has since had a couple of trials in between and Howe expects an improved effort today. “The way she’s worked the last couple of weeks has been encouraging. She’s not far off, we just wish she had a better draw!” Race five sees trotter Peaknmonkey ($5.50FF) represent the Howe team. Proving to be somewhat frustrating for Howe, the four-year-old Peak gelding just needs to put it together. “He works very well at home, but is just not getting it right on business day. When he does, he’ll get a dollar.” It’s similar for Didjabringthebubbles ($21.00FF) in race eight. “She’s got to be in the right mood. We are looking forward to the grass tracks, and will be one to follow around Christmas time.” Rounding out the Howe representatives is Didjashoutthebar ($26.00FF) for Robbie Close in race nine. “He’s going to win a few more races, but he’s just not quite strong enough yet. He’s another that I wish had a better draw.” “O’Hara and Didjashoutthebar would be our best two chances for the day.” Howe works a team of 18 from his West Melton base. View the full article

By Michael Guerin Punters should expect a winning lead-up to Cup week from trainers Barry Purdon and Scott Phelan at Alexandra Park tonight. But champion trainer Purdon admits its not easy to nail down exactly which horse. Purdon and Phelan are looking forward to a Cup week at Addington that won’t see them have a Cup runner but they will still have elite level pacers like Merlin (Junior F-F-A) and one of the favourites for the Sires’ Stakes Final in Cold Chisel. “We have some very smart horses there so like always we are going to enjoy the week,” says Purdon. While Cold Chisel must now be considered the stabke’s best juvenile they have at least two more who can win tonight. The stable has three pacers in Race 2 tonight and Purdon opts for Escape Artist over last-start winner Better Knuckle Up. “They are both start horses but Escape Artist was really good in an even better field last start,” said Purdon. “The draw makes it slightly tricky but he has a bit more experience but they are both smart young horses. We also have Benson Dude in there but it is tough coming up against some of these smart juveniles, especially over the mile.” It is all-mile night at The Park and that should suit In Excess in Race 4 as he gets barrier 2 and showed good gate speed before running third to Better Knuckle Up last start, having earlier raced in the Young Guns series won by Cold Chisel. “He should lead or be handy early and will be better for his last start so he will take beating.” Purdon and Phelan have a big opinion of Duchess Megxit (R5, No.6), who won well on debut and paced a slick 55.2 second last 800m. She finds herself well up in grade tonight but Purdon thinks she can handle that as she is a classics horse for next season. “We thought about one of the big fillies’ races down south but we think the best thing for her is keeping her up here and looking after her,” says Purdon. “But there is no doubting she has a good fillies motor.” The team have both Artisan and Montana D J in the main pace tonight and while Purdon is happy with both he says so much will depend on the tactics of the race. “Artisan was really good last start but we were a little disappointed by Montana D J’s last run but he has been better in his work since. “A lot will depend there on who leads and how fast they go. View the full article

By Jonny Turner Miss Gracie again showed the progeny of Uramao just love racing in November. The half sister of outstanding New Zealand Cup week performer Missalyssa strode to a nice victory at Oamaru yesterday for trainer Andrew Faulks and driver Sam Thornley. Faulks admitted he isn’t exactly sure why Uramao’s foals are such good performers in November for Oamaru owner-breeder Bill Pitches. But he is glad they are. “I don’t know, to be honest, but I hope they can keep it going next week,” Faulks quipped. Missalyssa heads into New Zealand Cup Week of 2023 after winning at the carnival in both 2020 and 2021. Miss Gracie is set to join her half-sister at Addington next, following her Addington win. “I nominated her for Show Day in case she won today because she wouldn’t be eligible for the trot at Ashburton,” Faulks said. “With a $30,000 stake, we will probably have to have a go.” With two wins now from 15 starts, Miss Gracie hasn’t been the most reliable performer during her short career, but she has shown her share of talent. And yesterday she was able to show her true worth with a faultless display. “Pretty much every time she has trotted, she has been in the first four, it is just a matter of her doing it all the time,” Faulks said. Miss Gracie (Royal Aspirations) is the second foal and second winner from Uramao, following Missalyssa (Monarchy). In winning, the mare’s two foals are doing what she promised to do during her career. “She had a lot of speed but she couldn’t put it all together.” “Phil Williamson had her after I did, and he said the same thing.” Missalyssa will start in the first event on New Zealand Cup Day at Addington. The mare missed out at last year’s carnival, though she ran respectably, producing fifth and sixth placings. Missalyssa was down the track in her latest outing at the same track last week, but Faulks isn’t concerned about that performance. “She seems pretty good, her work has been good.” “I wasn’t too worried about her last run, she has never liked slushy tracks.” Faulks will also start Winnyzback in the final event on New Zealand Cup Day. “It is good to be going there with two horses that might be able to get a bit of money.” View the full article

Every week, the TDN publishes a roundup of key official rulings from the primary tracks within the four major racing jurisdictions of California, New York, Florida and Kentucky. Here's a primer on how each of these jurisdictions adjudicates different offenses, what they make public (or not) and where. The TDN also posts a roundup of the relevant Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA) related rulings from the same week. These include decisions from around the country. NEW HISA/HIWU STEWARDS RULINGS The following rulings were reported on HISA's “rulings” portal and through the Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit's “pending” and “resolved” cases portals. Resolved ADMC Violations Date: 10/12/2023 Licensee: Chad Summers, trainer Penalty: Treated as 1 violation with Rayya Valentine under 9/8/23 HISA Guidance. Explainer: A possible violation of Rule 3314—Use or Attempted Use of a Controlled Medication Substance or a Controlled Medication Method—on the horse, Thank you Jon. This is also a possible violation of Rule 4222—Intra-Articular Injections Within Seven (7) Days of Timed and Reported Workout. Date: 10/11/2023 Licensee: Chad Summers, trainer Penalty: A fine of $3,000; imposition of 3 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: A possible violation of Rule 3314—Use or Attempted Use of a Controlled Medication Substance or a Controlled Medication Method—on the horse, Rayya Valentine. This is also a possible violation of Rule 4222—Intra-Articular Injections Within Seven (7) Days of Timed and Reported Workout. Date: 09/28/2023 Licensee: Ruben Gomez, trainer Penalty: 7-day period of Ineligibility, beginning on November 2, 2023; a fine of $1,000; imposition of 2 Penalty Points.Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Acepromazine—Controlled Medications (Class B)—in a sample taken from Blue Cloud. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 08/29/2023 Licensee: Kevin Fletcher, trainer Penalty: 7-day period of Ineligibility, beginning on November 4, 2023; a fine of $1,000; imposition of 2 Penalty Points.Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Caffeine—Controlled Medications (Class B)—in a sample taken from Ruby Layne. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 08/28/2023 Licensee: Shane Meyers, trainer Penalty: None. EAD Notice Withdrawn Explainer: For the presence of Altrenogest—a banned substance—in a sample taken from Mugsy Malone. This is a possible violation of Rule 3212—Presence of a Banned Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers. Date: 08/22/2023 Licensee: Thomas Kagele, trainer Penalty: Public disclosure. Explainer: Rule 3510 Disciplinary Proceedings/Refusal or Failure to Cooperate with HISA/HIWU. Date: 08/11/2023 Licensee: Cathal Lynch, trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Flunixin—Controlled Medications (Class C)—in a sample taken from Saloon, who finished second at Laurel Park on 8/11/23. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 07/03/2023 Licensee: William Martin, trainer Penalty: 30-day period of Ineligibility, beginning on November 7, 2023; Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $2,500; imposition of 3 Penalty Points. Final decision of IAP. Explainer: For the potential breach of Rule 4221—Alkalinization or Use of an Alkalinizing Agent (TCO2)—on Wild Irish, who won at Presque Isle Downs on 7/3/2023. This is also a possible violation of Rule 3313—Use of a Controlled Method During the Race Period. Pending ADMC Violations Date: 10/08/2023 Licensee: Francisco Soria, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Dantrolene—Controlled Medications (Class C)—in a sample taken from Profit Hunter. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 10/07/2023 Licensee: Nancy Summers, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Furosemide—Controlled Medications (Class C)—in a sample taken from Sweet Money, who finished second at Albuquerque Downs on 10/7/23. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 10/06/2023 Licensee: Jeffrey Dale Hudson, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Flunixin—Controlled Medications (Class C)—in a sample taken from Yumiko's Candy. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 10/02/2023 Licensee: Reid France, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Phenylbutazone—Controlled Medications (Class C)—in a sample taken from One Little Indian, who finished fourth at Golden Gate Fields on 10/2/23. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 09/22/2023 Licensee: Tanner Tracy, trainer Penalty: Pending Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Cannabidiol—Controlled Medications (Class B)—in a sample taken from Carry On, who finished second at Prairie Meadows on 9/22/23. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312—Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 09/20/2023 Licensee: Adolfo Macias, trainer Penalty: Provisionally suspended Alleged violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the possible possession of Levothyroxine (Thyro-L). This is a possible violation of Rule 3214(a)—Possession of Banned Substances The following cases have been returned to the “pending violation” list having previously been resolved. Date: 06/20/2023 Licensee: Joseph Taylor, trainer Penalty: Provisionally suspended Alleged Violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Methylphenidate and Clenbuterol—both banned substances—in a sample taken from Classy American, who finished second at Parx Racing on 6/20/23. This is a possible violation of Rule 3212—Presence of a Banned Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers. Date: 06/18/2023 Licensee: Joseph Taylor, trainer Penalty: Provisionally suspended Alleged Violation: Medication violation Explainer: For the presence of Methylphenidate and Clenbuterol—both banned substances—in a sample taken from Cajun Cousin, who finished second at Parx Racing on 6/18/23. This is a possible violation of Rule 3212—Presence of a Banned Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers. Violations of Crop Rule One important note: HISA's whip use limit is restricted to six strikes during a race. Delaware Park Andres Chavez – violation date Nov 1; $250 fine Horseshoe Indianapolis Samuel Bermudez – violation date Nov 1; $250 fine, one-day suspension Rogelio Miranda – violation date Nov 1; $100 fine Mahoning Valley Race Course Hector Berrios – violation date Oct 31; $750 fine, $7,800 purse forfeited, ten-day suspension, on appeal and stay denied Santa Anita Ryan Moore – violation date Nov 4; $20,800 fine, one-day suspension, on appeal and stay granted More on the story here. OTHER KEY RULINGS Every week, the TDN publishes a roundup of key official rulings from the primary tracks within the four major racing jurisdictions of California, New York, Florida and Kentucky. California Track: Santa Anita Date: 11/05/2023 Licensee: Irad Ortiz, jockey Penalty: Three-day suspension Violation: Careless riding Explainer: Jockey Irad Ortiz, who rode Goodnight Olive in the fifth race at Santa Anita Park on November 4, 2023, is suspended for 3 racing days (November 12, 17 and 18, 2023) for failure to maintain a straight course in the stretch and causing interference; violation of California Horse Racing Board rule #1699 (Riding Rules – careless riding). More on the story here. The post Weekly Stewards And Commissions Rulings, Oct. 31-Nov. 6 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

MGISW Arcangelo (Arrogate) is scheduled to undergo surgery for a left hind short lateral condylar fracture after a consultation by Dr. Larry Bramlage, Lane's End Farm said in a release late Thursday afternoon. The procedure was recommended to expedite the healing process and ensure his long-term soundness. The findings were made during precautionary radiographs that were performed after missing training and scratching from the Breeders' Cup Classic. “We expect a quick recovery and return to normal activities for Arcangelo,” said Bill Farish. “We do not anticipate this having any impact on his 2024 breeding season.” Arcangelo, who arrived at Lane's End in good order upon his retirement, will return to the stallion barn following the surgery to recover. The post Lane’s End New Arrival Arcangelo To Undergo Surgery appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

8th-CD, $127k, Alw, 3yo/up, f/m, post time: 4:33 p.m. ET Bass Stables' beautifully bred BANDITA (Gun Runner) could not have been more impressive in her lone racetrack appearance to date, as she led every step of the seven furlongs on Gulfstream debut Jan. 29 to score by nearly nine lengths en route to a 'TDN Rising Star' nod (video). The $350,000 Keeneland September grad is unraced since. The bay is out of a daughter of four-time stakes winner and Grade III-placed Simplify (Pulpit), the dam of Bandita's stakes-winning full-sister Optionality and of SW Simple Surprise (Cowboy Cal), whose two-time Grade I-winning son Gunite (Gun Runner) was runner-up in last Saturday's GI Breeders' Cup Sprint and is a new addition to the stallion roster at Coolmore in Kentucky. TJCIS PPs 7th-GP, $50k, Msw, 2yo, f, 7f, 3:04 p.m ET Fans of the 1960s band the Turtles and handicappers alike might flock to the debuting HAPPY TOGETHER (Speightstown) here. The Jan. 23 is the first foal from the stakes-placed Coexistence (Violence), who was purchased by the Lyster family's Ashview Farm for $190,000 out of the 2019 Keeneland November Sale. Herself a $425,000 KEESEP purchase by Robert and Lawana Low, the bay is bred on the very successful cross of Speighstown over Medaglia d'Oro responsible for the likes of Grade I winners Rock Fall, Olympiad, Competitionofideas and this year's GI Del Mar Futurity hero Prince of Monaco. TJCIS PPs 3rd-DMR, $63k, Alw/OC, 2yo, f, 5fT, 4:29 p.m. ET JULIAS DREAM (Flameaway), a $15,000 KEESEP yearling, blossomed into a $180,000 OBS April juvenile after working an eighth of a mile in a slick :9 4/5. The chestnut filly made the very most of her first trip to the races in a course-and-distance maiden Aug. 6, winning off by 5 1/2 lengths to become a 'Rising Star' and connections could hardly be faulted for taking a crack in the GI Del Mar Debutante, where she finished down the field behind fellow 'Rising Star' Tamara (Bolt d'Oro). The Talla Racing colorbearer gets Flavien Prat for this return to action. TJCIS PPs The post Friday Insights: ‘Rising Stars’ Return at Churchill, Del Mar appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Puerto Rico Gaming Commission adopted new protocols that will take effect Nov. 18 that will allow it to suspend racing licenses and/or levy fines in cases of racehorse neglect at Camarero Race Track.View the full article

Haras de Bouquetot has revealed its Al Shaqab Stallions fees for the 2024 breeding season as well as a new digital brochure available here. Leading the roster for the joint venture are Zelzal (Fr) and Wooded (Ire), both priced at €10,000 for next season. Al Shaqab Racing provided active support in the sales ring, and was the leader of yearling purchases in France in 2023. “Zelzal, thanks to his ability to improve the small number of mares he covered in his early breeding years (10% black-type and 52% winners per runner), was able to cover 189 mares in 2022 and 111 mares in 2023,” said Haras de Bouquetot nominations manager, Sebastien Desmontils. “Like many improving stallions, he is building his reputation the hard way, and we can only hope to see breeders who will use him in 2024 ride the wave of these two larger generations.” Desmontils added that Wooded's first yearlings went through the auction ring this year with a good number selling to the international market. Al Shaqab will have at least ten of his offspring competing in their colors. New addition Lusail (Ire), the first son of Mehmas (Ire) to stand in France, will carry an introductory fee of €6,000. “He has a very similar profile to his sire, both in terms of physical appearance and 2-year-old performances as a juvenile double G2 winner. [He is a] robust colt with excellent locomotion [who] is sure to catch the eye of breeders looking for speed and precocity.” The post Al Shaqab Stallions Reveals 2024 Fees, Digital Brochure appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Back-to-back GI Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Sprint heroine Goodnight Olive (Ghostzapper), who went to Lexington's own John Stewart at the Fasig-Tipton November Sale for $6 million on Tuesday Night, confirmed Wednesday via a message on X that his new acquisition would be returning to trainer Chad Brown to race in 2024. After the purchase that evening, Stewart told TDN that, “With all the success she's had to date, I think she still has some opportunity to still run.” The new owner added to that sentiment in the Wednesday Tweet when he posted that, “Goodnight Olive is off to continue training with Trainer Chad Brown. She deserves the right to tell us when/if she is finished racing. Maybe a three-peat at Breeders Cup 2024?” If she could pull it off, Goodnight Olive would join French champion Goldikova (Ire) (Anabaa) who won the GI TVG Breeders' Cup Mile in 2008, 2009 and 2010, as the only horses to win three consecutive races at the World Championships. Goodnight Olive is off to continue training with Trainer Chad Brown. She deserves the right to tell us when/if she is finished racing. Maybe a three-peat at Breeders Cup 2024? #FasigNovember #HorseRacing pic.twitter.com/wUhCn44cIS — John Stewart (@jstewartky) November 9, 2023 The post Stewart Confirms Goodnight Olive Heading Back To Brown Stable appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Following the Autumn Meet at Santa Anita Park that concluded Nov. 5, racing in Southern California moves to Del Mar for its Bing Crosby Season that begins Nov. 10. The fall meet, the 10th in track history, continues through Dec. 3.View the full article

Winless over his last eight starts, with six of those starts coming in grade 1 company, Soldier Rising receives class relief in the $300,000 Red Smith Stakes (G2T) Nov. 11 at Aqueduct Racetrack.View the full article

Multiple leading Florida sire Khozan will have his stud fee set at $6,500, according to a release Thursday from Journeyman Stud. An eleven-year-old son of Distorted Humor, Khozan was the leading 2-year-old sire in Florida when his first crop ran in 2019 and has continued to be the Sunshine State's leading general sire every year since. Represented by 12 black-type runners this year, including GIII Delaware Oaks winner Foggy Night, Me and Mr. C, winner of the Kentucky Downs Preview S. and R Harper Rose, recent winner of the Susan's Girl S., Khozan's progeny has earned $5.1 million this year. Journeyman's 2024 roster also includes GSW Uncle Chuck (Uncle Mo) whose first foals will be yearlings in 2024. His fee will remain at $6,500, while American Pharoah's full-brother and Irish multiple group stakes placed St Patrick's Day (Pioneerof the Nile), with his first-crop racing this year, will be set at $3,500. GISP Chance It (Currency Swap), whose first foals will be yearlings, will once again stand for $2,000. The post Florida’s Leading Sire Khozan To Stand For $6,500 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Flutter, the parent company of United States sports betting leader FanDuel as well as the advance deposit wagering platform TVG, reports a strong third quarter for sports wagering in the U.S. and weakness in pari-mutuel race wagering.View the full article

TOBA is hosting a claiming seminar Dec. 2 at Fair Grounds in New Orleans. The morning seminar is strategically positioned on the day of the 25th Claiming Crown.View the full article

Lope De Vega (Ire), whose new top-level winners in 2023 include Program Trading (GB) and Arapaho (Fr), has had his fee held at €125,000 for the fourth year. Four of the Ballylinch Stud stallions will stand in 2024 at the same price as they were advertised this year, while the fee for Waldgeist (GB) has been reduced. Ballylinch Stud's managing director John O'Connor said, “The Ballylinch stallion roster had another flagship year in 2023, with our proven sires Lope de Vega, New Bay and Make Believe being responsible for some of the highest rated two-year-olds across Europe. Despite this success and outstanding results in the sales ring for our stallions, we have listened to breeders in a year which saw sales returns experience significant retrenchment and have decided not to increase our fees for 2024.” Lope De Vega covered 177 mares this year, the same number as his stud-mate New Bay (GB), whose fee for 2024 is €75,000. New Bay stands alongside one of his Group 1-winning sons, Bayside Boy (Ire), who will embark on his second season at stud at a fee of €15,000 after covering 134 mares in his first book. Make Believe (GB), the sire of multiple Group 1 winner Mishriff (Ire), has his largest crop making their debut next season, and he will stand in 2024 at €10,000, which is also the fee for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe winner Waldgeist (GB), down from €12,500 in 2023. The post Fees Held Steady for Ballylinch Stud Sires appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Japanese superstar Equinox (Jpn) (Kitasan Black {Jpn}) has topped the rankings at 129 in the ninth edition of the 2023 World's Best Racehorse rankings followed closely by Arc winner Ace Impact (Ire) (Cracksman {GB}) and Mostahdaf (Ire) (Frankel {GB}), who are tied for second with a rating of 128 each. Noteworthy movement in the rankings include dominant G1 Queen Elizabeth II S. victor Big Rock (Fr) (Rock of Gibraltar {Ire}), now the co-fourth highest along with Hukum (Ire) (Sea the Stars {Ire}). The Breeders' Cup had its impact on the latest ranking shake-up as well with Auguste Rodin (Ire) (Deep Impact {Jpn}) maintaining his 124 following his win in the G1 Longines Breeders' Cup Turf, and pulled up second place finisher Up to the Mark (Not This Time) and third place Shahryar (Jpn) (Deep Impact {Jpn})'s ratings in the process. The former went to 122 from 121 and the latter joined the rankings off the effort. In all, seven of the 11 top-rated runners are trained in Europe, two are based in Japan, and two are in Hong Kong. The year-end rankings will be released in January 2024. A full-list can be found on the IFHA website. The post Equinox Tops Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association is hosting a claiming seminar Saturday, Dec. 2 at Fair Grounds in New Orleans, Louisiana, the organization said in a release Thursday. Attendees will learn insights on different aspects of claiming Thoroughbreds from industry professionals like Jason M. Boulet, Senior Director of Racing at Fair Grounds to trainer Bret Calhoun. The clinic is open to the general public, with a special discount for TOBA members. The deadline to register is Tuesday, Nov. 28. Click here for more information. The post Claiming Seminar Scheduled At Fair Grounds Dec. 2 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Yeomanstown Stud's flagship sire Dark Angel (Ire), who reached a landmark 100 individual stakes winners in 2023, will remain at a fee of €60,000 in 2024. His top performers of the year have included Khaadem (Ire) and Art Power (Ire), whose victories at Royal Ascot and on Champions Day brought Dark Angel's total of Group 1 winners to 15, while his six-year-old son Alfareeq (Ire) won his second consecutive G1 Jebel Hatta at Meydan in March. The G2 Prix d'Harcourt winner Shaman (Ire) will have his first runners next season and his fee is also unchanged at €5,000, while Supremacy (Ire) will also remain steady at a fee of €10,000. The winner of the G1 Middle Park S., who has his first foals at the forthcoming sales, covered 143 mares this year. Invincible Army (Ire) has been represented by 12 individual winners from his first crop to date, including the stakes winner Kitty Rose (Ire). His fee has been reduced to €5,000 for 2024, from €7,500 this season, when he covered 120 mares. The post Dark Angel to Remain at €60,000 in 2024 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 148 entries for the main catalogue of the Midlantic December Mixed Sale, to be held starting at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, December 5 at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, the auction house said in a release Thursday. “This is an important sale for the Midlantic region,” said Midlantic Director of Sales Paget Bennett. “There are several quality producers catalogued, as well as weanlings from a variety of state-bred programs by both leading national and regional sires.” The main catalogue consists of broodmares, broodmare prospects, weanlings and yearlings. Fasig-Tipton will also offer a Horses of Racing Age supplement for the seventh consecutive year and entries will continue to be accepted through late November. “Horses of racing age are one of the strongest segments of the market,” said Bennett. “We encourage sellers to take advantage of Midlantic December and utilize its Horses of Racing Supplement which delivers quality results year-after-year.” The Midlantic December Mixed catalogue may now be viewed online and will be available in the Equineline app. Print catalogues are now available from all Fasig-Tipton offices. The post Fasig-Tipton Midlantic December Mixed Catalogue Posted appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The mixed November Sale at Tattersalls on Thursday yielded turnover of 483,100gns from 62 horses sold. The clearance rate was 57%, with an average price of 7,792gns and median of 4,000gns. The day's top price of 70,000gns came for the unraced Galileo (Ire) juvenile Saint Terry (Ire), who was bought online by Tom Malone. “He's been bought for a client as one owner bought the other partner out. He'll go to be trained at Barry Brennan's Newlands Stables in Lambourn,” said the agent. The colt is out of the Listed winner Pink Dogwood (Ire) (Camelot {GB}), a sister to the Irish Derby winner Latrobe (Ire) and from the family of G1 Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf winner Newspaperofrecord (Ire) (Lope De Vega {Ire}). He was offered by Freddy and Martyn Meade's Manton Park Racing having been bought from Book 1 of the October Sale last year for 130,000gns. The post Galileo Colt Tops Tattersalls November appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The ninth panel of the OwnerView Virtual Thoroughbred Owner Conference was held Tuesday, Nov. 7 and featured videos of farrier work and equine dentistry, said The Jockey Club who hosted the event along with the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association. Discussions included perspectives from Dr. Scott Morrison and Dr. Brad Tanner, both of Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, and OwnerView's project manager, Gary Falter. The conference is sponsored by Bessemer Trust, Stoll Keenon Ogden and The Green Group. This panel was sponsored by Equilume. Attendees were able to ask questions through Zoom's Q&A feature, sponsored by West Point Thoroughbreds. Breeding Plans, the final Thoroughbred Owner Conference virtual panel of the year is scheduled for Dec. 5 at 2 p.m. ET. There is no registration fee for the virtual conference series, but it is a requirement. For more information and replays of all the panels, click here. The post Ninth Thoroughbred Owner Conference Panel Now Online appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article