Wandering Eyes

Every week we look at the trials and workouts from right around the country. Who’s impressing and who looks ready to race? Wyndham Workouts Thursday 7th December Weather Fine Track fast Superfast Ronnie (3c Superfast Stuart – Hazel Maud) The Brown trained trotter was solid throughout for Brent Barclay, stepping nicely and trailing two and three deep throughout, challenged leader 400m out and had little trouble getting the upper hand over the final stages. MR:2:12.8, 800m in 63.8, 400m in 31.7. The qualifying time was not electric but the dam won seven and her first three foals have all been winners. ‘Ronnie’ is foal number four. Sweet Star Of Mine (3f Sweet Lou – Petra’s Star) Trained by Nathan Williamson, this filly qualified here and it was an eyecatching run, settled last of eight in a strung out field and was still 5L behind the eventual winner Dragon Power at the 400m, poked through late when gaps appeared to be only 1 1/2L away at the line in second. MR:2:03.0, 800m in 58.1, 400m in 30.1. Bred by the Cummings family of Tuapeka fame and a half to decent winners in Galactic Star and Tuapeka Trick, both 1:52 performers Tact McLeod (4g Sweet Lou – Tact Hayley Jane) The Proctor runner was back at the trials again this week but much more reserved than previous recent efforts, sat in trail behind With A Bang and never pulled out at any point, looked to have plenty of petrol in the tank. MR:n/a, 800m in 59.4, 400m in 29.6. Looks a strong chance wherever he goes in the coming weeks. Imperial Man (4g Imperial Count – In De Fence) The Ryan trained winner of three (from only 15 starts) was content to stay back in six horse field, worked closer 400m out, challenged wide around final turn, doing best work final 50m to just miss picking up Joeking who came from well back also but stuck to the inside to make his run. MR:2:09.2, 800m in 60.7, 400m in 31.6. The former hasn’t started since April but has fashioned a tidy record already and shouldn’t be underestimated when he resumes. I’ll Be Back (2c Bettor’s Delight – Lulabelle Midfrew) The Gray trained runner soon in front and under siege on straightening for the run home but kept going strongly to hold rivals at bay headed by stablemate Wehavtime who led out before trailing winner.MR:2:01.0, 800m in 60.4, 400m in 28.7. Has had a stable change since debuting at Addington back in July and now domiciled in the deep south, look out for him ! Sweet DJ (2f Sweet Lou – Everlasting Deal) The yet to qualify Nathan Williamson runner sat fifth of five throughout before taking closer order inside final 400m, finished stylishly last 150 to win impressively. MR:2:08.9, 800m in 59.6, 400m in 29.5. The full brother (1st foal) was snapped up by Australia after placing on debut and this filly looks full of promise judging by this effort. Ultimate Weapon (2g Bettor’s Delight – Reality Check) Not for the first time, the Williamson runner gets a mention in this forum. . . . settled midfield before improving bell only to be parked out for the rest of the trip, refused to lie down and not extended to keep Eatmydust at bay who sat in 1×1 last lap. MR:2:05.9, 800m in 60.7, 400m in 29.5. Most likely to be well supported when the debut finally arrives. Major Envy (2f Art Major – Gotta Go Harmony) Yet another from the Nathan Williamson barn, soon in front and then waved goodbye in the home straight winning by some 10L. MR:2:05.5, 800m in 59.0, 400m in 29.0 Placed in three of her four starts including a last start third behind Louie’s Girl back in late October which is now really good form, should be easily placed in the coming weeks especially against her own sex. Pukekohe Workouts Saturday 9th December Weather Fine Track Fast Kashkeeper (2g Bettor’s Delight – Elusive Chick) The Telfer trained runner out well from the outside draw to land parked before pressing on to lead after 500m, under siege 300m and looked headed but came back final 100m to hold 5 rivals at bay. MR:2:06.6, 800m in 59.0, 400m in 28.0. This boy a full brother to Lulu Le Mans (10 wins + $115k in stakes) from the well performed Elusive Chick who won 13 & over $400k in stakes Of those in behind, Magnum Star caught the eye finishing on late wide out although only officially fifth but close up. Another by Bettor’s Delight, he has plenty of breeding behind him, qualified way back in February Dream Of You (4g Love You – Paramount Dream) The Balle trained winner of six only had two rivals, started off 40m before improving to lead midrace, nothing between it and That’s What We Do (30m) at the end after the latter challenged hard over final 400m. MR:2:13.6, 800m in 60.1, 400m in 28.2. Dream Of You a last start winner albeit back in late July and has a good horse’s record to date. That’s What We Do didn’t perform up to expectations at Addington over cup week but he too, also a son Of Love You, has fashioned a tidy record in a short career and can bounce back quickly. Twista (2g Bettor’s Delight – Double Twist) The Telfer trained runner trailed Predator throughout then issued a challenge at the top of the straight to finish best with the other two runners beaten off by some distance. MR:2:02.6, 800m in 58.9, 400m in 28.9. Placed on debut then unplaced in only other start back in August, he is a half to Double Time who has won four and there is plenty of breeding behind him to suggest he has a bright future. Taketheplunge (2c Downbytheseaside – Winter Rose) The Reid trained runner worked into a trail before issuing a challenge 400m out, came clear final 100m to win untouched, impressive work. MR:2:06.4, 800m in 58.7, 400m in 27.6. He is a full/half brother to a stack of good horses and this effort suggested he had inherited much of the family ability, qualified back in early June and his debut now keenly awaited Cambridge Workouts Saturday 9th December Weather Fine Track Fast Shez The One (2f Sweet Lou – Styxler) The Arna Donnelly trained runner made an early mistake and lost several lengths, recovered to trail (three in heat) then improved to lead a lap out, kept going determinedly to stay in front. MR:2:02.5, 800m 58.9, 400m in 29.2. Qualified back in early July behind Little Spike who has been a recent winner, showed enough here to follow with interest when she debuts. Nelson Trials Sunday 10th December Weather Fine Track Fast Sarasota Sunset (4m Sunshine Beach – Crystal Bromac) The Walsh trained runner made the run from Westport to compete and went solidly against one other rival, the last 800m especially pleasing. MR:2:02.0, 800m in 57.1, 400m in 29.2. Good enough to win as a 2yo on her home track but that was on Boxing Day two 2 years ago, not overly raced and obviously getting ready for that venue again, a suggestion here that she might be able to turn the form line around. The Ashburton trials Tuesday 5th December Weather Overcast Track Good Jukebox Gypsy (2f Rock N Roll Heaven – Gypsy’s Choice) In the hands of her trainer Gerard O’Reilly, the filly went to the front then cleared out from her rivals over final 400m. MR:2:02.5, 800m in 60.5, 400m in 29.9. She is the first foal of a mare that won five races herself and this effort suggested that she had inherited much of her mother’s ability. Chica Bella (4m Art Major – Indulge) The White trained mare got her ‘ticket’ here by getting to the front and staying on too well for her four rivals. MR:2:05.9, 800m in 60.2, 400m in 29.4. She has had plenty of time to work the racing game out and the stable obviously likes her. She has some breeding to reinforce her claims with her dam winning six and over $100k in stakes. ‘Bella’ is the 3rd foal and the 1st 2 foals have both been winners Rockin Va Va (5g A Rocknroll Dance – Va Va Voom) The Cheree Wigg runner sat at the back of the bunch throughout and was still there 500m out, put in sustained run in the straight to just outfinish Terra Sancta who was last of the bunch turning in, did best work out wide last 150m to just miss (margin – nose) MR:2:05.1, 800m in 59.0, 400m in 28.9. Rockin Va Va, as the winner of six, might be a ‘special’ if kept for an amateur race. Terra Sancta qualified in late November for Matty Williamson but has yet to debut. Ari On Safari (2g Always B Miki – Jive Denario) The O’Reilly trained runner stepped nicely and was handy before taking control after 500m, simply said goodbye to his rivals at the 400m and was officially 10L clear at the line. MR:2:06.6, 800m in 59.1, 400m in 28.7. This impressive qualifier is the first foal from a mare that is no longer with us but was a half sister to three winners and from Stylish Sweetheart who won 12 races and $157k in stakes including seven as a 2yo. Certainly a debut to look out for. Rangiora Trials Wednesday 6th December Weather Fine Track Good Im Rockin (2g Johnny Rock – I’m Joe King) The Todd trained runner stepped and led his one rival throughout, kept going solidly to win nicely MR:2:08.5, 800m in 56.3, 400m in 28.2. Apart from the slick sectionals in this qualifier, the winner has some very interesting breeding behind him and his dam is a half to five winners including For The Ladies (9 wins and race timed in 1:51) ! Rockingood (2g A Rocknroll Dance – Good Girl Becqui) Trained by Benny Hill, the 2yo was happy enough to sit back in the field before improving to outside the leader 600m out, led on straightening, kept going strongly to come clear final 50m MR:2:04.6, 800m in 59.2, 400m in 28.6. The trainer has a share in this fella and there is some good breeding in behind to suggest a promising future. Louretta made ground in style from back on outer for a closing second, yet to qualify. Lethal Speed (3g Bettor’s Delight – Sossusvlei) The Dunn runner settled fifth of seven in indian file before improving midrace to lead, kept going strongly to clearly outstay rivals MR:2:03.4, 800m in 58.8, 400m in 30.1. Qualified back in August and this professional performance argued well for when the top stable decides to run him on debut. It should be noted that he is the third foal and the first two have already been good winners including his full brother Aqua Sancta who has raced timed in 1:51. This is the Black Watch family through Corbie. On Top Of The World ran on well for 2nd although no match for the winner Narobi (2f Bettor’s Delight – Its All On) The Purdon trained filly got to the lead soon after the mobile left and kept going under her own steam to keep her rivals at bay MR:1:59.9, 800m in 58.7, 400m in 29.8. Qualified back in May behind Waterfront (Sires Stakes heat winner) and ahead of Madrid. That company would suggest she is more than likely to handle a maiden race. Fulham Jive (3g A Rocknroll Dance – MJ Fulham) Taken straight to the front by trainer Robbie Holmes and came clear in the straight to win impressively by nearly 4L MR:2:03.1, 800m in 57.0, 400m in 28.3. Placed once in three starts, the last of which was way back in February, given time to grow into his big frame and this patient policy looks to be heading in the right direction for his connections. Elite Styx (4m Betting Line – Styx On The Beach) The Payne trained mare sat fifth of six before improving to take control last 600m, kept up strong run to win with something in hand MR:2:05.0, 800m in 57.4, 400m in 28.5. Genuine mare who has already won three and generally gives of her best, freshened since last racing and a good chance to build upon her current record at short notice. Beach Ball (4h Somebeachsomewhere – Twilight Rascal) The NZ Cup placegetter here for a ‘quiet run’ and he settled third of four, tracked into the race on the final bend then had little trouble picking up rivals inside last 100m. Driver Rick May had made the journey from Methven to stick with him, since being taken over by Benny Hill. MR:2:01.3, 800m in 56.8, 400m in 27.9 With placings in both Cup week starts, it would be fair to say the big boy is in career best form and can be followed with some confidence in the coming weeks Live On Legend (4g A Rocknroll Dance – A Legend) The Austin trained runner, not for the first time in recent weeks, was impressive again in a trial after stepping to the front and proving a class above his two rivals. MR:2:06.4, 800m in 58.4, 400m in 29.1. The winner of four from 20 starts, and freshened since last racing in September, his work at the trials suggest he is ready to build upon his tidy race record. Last start winner Dare Devil stepped smoothly from the stand then was pulled out of heat after performing satisfactorily with his stand start manners. Pukekohe Workouts Friday 1st December Weather Fine Track fast Prince Miki (2g Always B Miki – Jubilee Princess) The Telfer-trained runner got back in the five horse qualifying field, still had plenty to do 400m out, made up a ton of ground in the straight to finish third less than 3L from winner/stablemate Major Secret who led throughout. MR:2:02.2, 800m in 58.7, 400m in 29.1. His last 400m would have been quite superior to that of the winner. Ice Fairy who has been mentioned more than once in recent weeks, trailed then challenged strongly to be close up in second to also qualify. Manhattan (5m Bettor’s Delight – Wat A Woman) The Butt-trained runner, up in the north for the mares specials, sped out to lead as the gate pulled away in the hands of young Harrison Orange, had little trouble staying in front of her three rivals, it was impressive work. MR:2:01.5, 800m in 57.1, 400m in 27.2. Life’s A Beach not disgraced in coming from fourth of four to snare second, made her run at the 400m when the pace was right on. Royal Action (3f Majestic Son – Aspiring Monarch) Four runners and all had a turn in front but Royal Action (unqualified) was good enough to sit parked last 1000m and still outfinish two-win pacemaker The River Boy for co-trainer Lyn Neal although the latter did give the winner a 20m headstart. MR:2:10.5, 800m in 61.5, 400m in 29.6. The winner sprinted sharply in the straight to win impressively and her debut should be keenly awaited. Con Grazia Love (4m Love You – Con Grazia) The McCaffrey-trained Group 1 winner gave her six rivals a start and was content to race in last spot before improving from the 600m, brought wide on straightening and proved too classy for her rivals. MR:2:06.7, 800m in 59.8, 400m in 29.0. Hasn’t started since May and will derive great benefit from this run. Already the winner of $116k and just five races, she should be easily placed in the coming weeks. Slots (2c Sweet Lou – Spin To Win) The Telfer-trained runner again impressed, racing fourth of six before electing to race parked from the 900m, too strong over the final stages for pacemaker Taketheplunge MR:2:05.9, 800m in 58.1, 27.7. Of interest, Roman Rock, stablemate of the winner, caught the eye, running on for third without being pushed. Now four (rising 5) but qualified way back in early 2022 and yet to debut. DJ Rock (3g Rock N Roll Heaven – Ideal Lass) The Telfer-trained runner raced third of three before getting around to challenge pacemaker McKendrick at the 400m, both went to the line strongly and just a nose between them at the finish. MR:2:05.4, 800m in 57.8, 400m in 28.1. DJ Rock has won two already from just eight starts and looks capable of extending that promising start in his present rating grade. Cassius Clyde (3g American Ideal – Charioteer) Yet another from the powerful Telfer stable, raced fourth of four throughout, came wide on the final turn and finished resolutely to get very close to winner Major Achievement who trailed third until finishing best. MR:2:03.0, 800m in 60.4, 400m in 29.1. Clyde has already won two from just five starts but has been given time to fill into his large frame and this patient policy should prove fruitful for his connections. Winton Workouts Friday 1st December Weather Fine Track Good Flashbytheseaside (2c Downbytheseaside – Flashonbye) Only a learners heat but the Morris-trained runner made a positive impression by racing last of five throughout before putting in a sustained finish over the final 400m to nail pacemaker John Snow on the line. MR:2:06.8, 800m in 58.7, 400m in 29.3. The half to Sporty Charlie (4 wins) should easily qualify to go to the races on this effort. Captain Meister (3g Captaintreacherous – Lite Jagermeister) In the hands of trainer Kirsten Green, settled last of four before taking closer order inside final 800m, led around final turn and kept going strongly to outstay Mallory Maguire who trailed mostly, without being driven out. MR:2:03.0, 800m in 56.0, 400m in 28.4. Already placed in a short career to date, he looks well capable of winning a maiden sooner than later. Mallory Maguire, a half to Lewey Maguire, looks a promising filly also. Tact McLeod (4g Sweet Lou – Tact Hayley Jane) Some performance this. Settled last of 7 and at one point must have been 20L from the leader, gaps closed up midrace then he was set alight by young Kite and went from last to first in the space of 200m, led on straightening, arrogantly proved too good without being extended. MR:2:03.2, 800m in 55.5, 400m in 27.7. This field had the likes of Sandwave and Another Party included but the lightly raced Proctor runner (2 wins from 4 starts) definitely made a statement here. The Highflyer (2g Fear The Dragon – The Highlight) The Gray-trained runner trailed third before electing to improve and lead 1200m out, stayed on strongly to deadheat with Blue Star Hima (lead, trail) with the others well beaten. MR:2:05.2, 800m in 58.2, 400m in 28.6. Qualified back in September behind Claasee (already a winner) and looks a sound advert for his sire who had his first NZ winner recently. Blue Star Hima qualified even further back in April and has some breeding to recommend him, the 2yo colt by Sweet Lou Bring On The Muscle (2g Majestic Son – Mass Invasion) The promising Barron-trained trotter (2 wins/2 placings from just 4 starts) trailed throughout then challenged at the top of the straight and had no problem powering past the pacemaker to win impressively. MR:2:06.9, 800m in 58.6, 400m in 29.0. Looks a handy horse in the making and even at this stage could be followed with some confidence moving forwards. Northern Southland Workouts Sunday 3rd December Weather Overcast Track Good (Grass track) Bobbie’s Majorette(3f Art Major – Ask McArdle) The Matheson-trained filly led out before trailing Peace Of Heaven after 400m, challenged determinedly in straight to just edge out the latter but little between them at the line. MR:2:05.5, 800m in 59.6, 400m in 30.1. Bobbie is from a handy mare that won five and her first four foals have all got to the races including the promising last start winner in Caldwell. Peace Of Heaven is a half to three winners who have gone sub 1:58 including the handy Escobar who won two here before being exported to Australia. Sky Fawkes (3f Sky Major – Coughton Court) The Anderson/Love trained runner sped out to lead and was clear most of the way, kicked again at the top of the straight when her rivals threatened to get close, cleared out by 7L. MR:2:06.7, 800m in 60.5, 400m in 29.4. Qualified back in October and high strike rate trainer has a share in this one, primed for her debut wherever she goes to. Bobbie’s Rock (4g A Rocknroll Dance – Ask McArdle) The Kirsten Green-trained runner snagged back to last in a field of six, stayed there until getting into the running line three back on outer inside final 1000m, came wide on final turn to strongly reel in his rivals. MR:2:12.8, 800m in 59.3, 400m in 29.1. Hasn’t started since April but showed good promise winning two from 10 in his first campaign Shezza Vinny (3f Vincent – Shezza Cracker) The Brinsdon-trained filly led out and set a leisurely pace, sprinted strongly last 300m to come clear of four rivals, officially by 4L. MR:2:16.3, 800m in 60.2, 400m in 30.0. Close to winning her maiden in recent times and this effort again reinforced the thought that this win is close at hand One Two Menny (6g Majestic Son – One Two Kenny) The Wilson-trained runner began ok off 20m but then had an early gallop, recovered to track stablemate Willangus Lad (30m) onto the front end midrace and led 1200m out, caught by the latter final 50m but kept going strongly to the line, just a head the margin. MR:2:07.7, 800m/400m sectionals not available. While Willangus Lad had race fitness on his side after racing (unsuccessfully) at Addington over Cup Week, One Two Menny hasn’t started since April and would have benefited immensely from this outing. Chertsey trials Tuesday 21st November Weather Fine / Track Fast (Ashburton) Paramount Lady (2f Tactical Landing – Paramount Faith) In the hands of her trainer Mark Jones, the 2yo half sister to Muscle Mountain went solo in this solid effort. MR:2:09.9, 800m in 60.6, 400m in 29.6. She qualified back in August but her three starts to date against the best 2yos have reaped little to date. Her breeding is to respected and with practice she should get better. Franco Promachos (3g A Rocknroll Dance – Pepper Potts) The Leacock-Jones trained runner got his qualifying ticket here by stepping straight to the front and running away from his 3 rivals over the final stages. MR:2:08.1, 800m in 56.9, 400m in 27.6. The overall time was nothing to write home about but the final sectionals looked positive. His dam won six and has already left two sub 2:00 min performers from her first two foals including Parker (7 wins) and he is foal number three. Whatever It Takes (3c Creatine – Diedre’s Gold) The Donna Williamson-trained runner settled fourth of four before improving to take issue inside the final 800m, surged to the front at the 500m and careered away from his three rivals in the straight, 15 1/2L officially. MR:2:11.3, 800m in 59.0, 400m in 29.2. This qualifying effort was quite a professional one and he looked solid throughout. Another plus is the fact that he is by a sire doing a very nice job currently. Mighty Miki (2g Always B Miki – Touch Of Rose) This Matty Williamson-trained runner caught the eye when qualifying second, just behind West Virginia, coming off her back to just miss by a nose, had raced fourth of five throughout. MR:2:07.3, 800m in 58.7, 400m in 28.3. Those sectionals off the front which made his run meritorious. His dam won four and was a handy 2yo and has already left five winners so he has a bit going for him. High Energy (3f Father Patrick – High Gait) Back from an Australian campaign and already the winner of eight (from only 11 starts) and close to $140k in stakes, the Purdon trained filly led and was not asked for too much as she was nabbed late by High Intensity (yet another by Creatine) who trailed her throughout. MR:2:10.5, 800m in 60.7, 400m in 29.2. The latter has won two from five on raceday and these two fillies could clash again on Grand Prix day in early December. Kiss The Girls (6g Terror To Love – Duarunner) The Jones trained runner officially only sixth in a nine horse field but never pulled out over final stages after racing in midfield and looked to have plenty in reserve. Heat won by a pacemaking El Chico. MR:2:04.8, 800m in 56.1, 400m in 27.4. The winner of six has not started in over a year and would have derived great benefit from this run, certainly one to watch out for if he makes it back to his best. Henry Winkler (3g Rocknroll Hanover – Angela’s Dream) The Fonz would have been very happy with this effort from the Smolenski trained gelding who stepped into the trail then put plenty of dash into his final 300m to clear out from his four rivals. MR:2:05.3, 800m in 57.6, 400m in 27.6. A recent qualifier with some breeding behind him, the 7L margin would suggest a maiden field well within his capabilities…..happy days ! Transtasman Bubble (3f Aldebaran Eagle – Anguish) Only officially fifth of seven for the Holmes trained filly but she did come from last at the 800m to get within a length of the winner Special Effects and was stretching out in good style over the final 200m. MR:2:10.3, 800m in 59.1, 400m 28.9. Has twice from only three starts including finishing ahead of subsequent winner Mainbocher at her most recent start. On the breeding front, her dam is a daughter of Sungait Reb (15 wins + $178k in stakes), she looks a winner in the very near future. Sonadora (3f Betting Line – Sue Dreamer) Now with Mark Smolenski (previously in her four career starts with the Dunns), led out then trailed seven win mare She’s Tough, gave plenty of cheek to that runner over final stages in sharp sprint home, 1L away in 2nd. MR:2:09.6, 800m in 56.6, 400m in 27.5. Good enough to win on debut then place against the likes of Franco Sinatra in her first campaign, put aside for the winter and hasn’t started since May but one to consider in her own grade against her own sex. Aldebaran Floss (5m Muscle Mass – Another Love) The Swain-trained trotter trailed then popped out to lead from the 800m, ran clear of two rivals from that point. MR:2:15.4, 800m in 57.8, 400m in 28.4. Has had two runs back after being off the track for over two years. Was a Group 2 winner at three and has won three from 17 career starts, starting against the best of her age group. The time not startling but much to like about her final sectionals and looks to be a natural improver with racing under her belt Rangiora Trials Wednesday 29th November Weather Overcast Track Good The Chase (3g What The Hill – Loveonthelawn) The Barron-trained trotter had four rivals in this qualifying heat but three of them broke badly enough to take no real part and it was really a solo effort that him clear by 20 odd lengths at the line. MR:2:12.1, 800m in 60.8, 400m in 30.6. He was very solid throughout and comes with some breeding, going back to a prolific family developed by legendary trotting trainer Bill Doyle. As the name suggests, his dam is by Love You and won twice in a short career, one to respect on debut Kamilla (3f Creatine – Dutchess) Trained by Benny Hill, the as yet unqualified 3yo had no trouble leading from the mobile and at the business end had similar ease in proving far too good for her two rivals. MR:2:08.2, 800m in 60.8, 400m in 30.5. She is a half to three winners including the well performed Doff Your Cap (14 wins + $208k in stakes with a best time of 1:54.1) and while not overly big, had a nice way of going to suggest a maiden field would be well within her capabilities. Cathy Freeman (2f Sweet Lou – Tres Vite) The Mark Jones-trained filly settled back in 6 horse field, still had plenty to do 400m out, came wide on final turn and finished determinedly to grab a head win over Lady Boutique who enjoyed the 1-1 sit last 800m, both naturally qualified. MR:2:03.9, 800m in 59.2, 400m in 29.8. Driven by Sam Ottley, the winner looked to be finding the line under her own steam. Dam won seven in a short career and this is her first/only foal to date Built For Glory (2c Bettor’s Delight – Fight For Glory) The Telfer trained colt settled midfield from widest draw then elected to improve 1200m out to lead, kept going strongly to keep his rivals at bay. MR:2:02.5, 800m in 59.1, 400m in 29.1. This colt qualified way back in March just behind Major Hot and Vessem (both high quality performing 2yos) and of course his dam was a big winner on both sides of the Tasman, winning 14 and some $674k in stakes. He ticks a lot of boxes. Warrior Chief (3g Sweet Lou – Here We Go Again) The Gameson trained runner trailed two and three deep mostly before being asked to improve inside final 800m and sit parked, led 400m, kept up strong run to clearly outstay rivals. MR:2:02.3, 800m in 58.1, 400m in 29.5. He has been mentioned in this forum previously and it is noted that his last start (in early October) was against Don’t Stop Dreaming and other smart 3yos. Already a winner from just four starts and looks capable of adding to his record at short notice. Franco Marek (5g A Rocknroll Dance – Miss Lisa) Caught wide early, the Manson trained runner pushed forward to lead then sprinted sharply to keep We Walk By Faith at bay. MR:2:00.5, 800m in 56.3, 400m in 27.4. Didn’t get much of a go in last week’s Timaru Cup and has a good horse’s record, having won five from just 14 starts, punters should stay loyal to him. We Walk By Faith led then trailed, not extended to keep pace with the winner with the rest some 8L away. Did the business on Show Day at Addington and not finished yet for high profile stable. Caserta Franco (2f Art Major – Cherish A Franco) Not often a runner that runs last of six deserves a mention but the McRae runner bungled the start and lost considerable ground, only made contact with her rivals with 800m to run and not surprisingly elected to tuck in behind all the way down the home straight and looked comfortable enough over the final stages. Heat won by Ten Da Touch. MR:2:08.7, 800m in 59.5, 400m in 29.7. She qualified back in April and is a half to some handy types including Franco Cristiano (9 wins). One to watch out for especially against her own sex. Muscle Mountain (6g Muscle Hill – Paramount Faith) Back at the trials after the misfortune of The Dominion handicap on Show Day, the Hope trained superstar gave 5 lesser-rated rivals 40m start and after beginning swiftly to trail third, used the inside channel to finish best although the time not overly quick. MR:2:13.4, 800m in 61.2, 400m in 29.4. Nevertheless, the connections would have been ultra happy with the run under the circumstances and he looks on track to bounce back and show his true worth. Pinseeker (3g Downbytheseaside – Nicky’s Power) The Cox trained runner (1 start for 1 win) stepped and led, set leisurely pace before sprinting stylishly and holding off his more tightly assessed rivals in Live On Legend and Mandalay Bay MR:2:10.2, 800m in 57.5, 400m in 27.6. The debut was no fluke and he can continue on his merry way next time out. Live On Legend raced fourth of four then came on very well last 400m and his sectionals would have impressed watchers. Pukekohe Workouts Saturday 25th November Weather Fine Track fast Major Achievement (3g Art Major – Atom Queen) The Green-trained runner settled third of five and stayed there until stablemate and pacemaker Beaudiene Rocknroll went off stride 600m out, took the opportunity to take over and kept going strongly to hold his rivals at bay. MR:2:03.9, 800m in 59.0, 400m in 29.6. Maiden win was four starts ago and looks to be coming to terms with recent rise in class, might be better suited to Cambridge way of going. Conrad H (4g Love You – Hilton H) The Balle-trained trotter was slow away from the front line but able to trail ahead of 20m runners, back to third of four mid race, came around on final turn to outstay his more tightly assessed rivals. MR:2:12.3, 800m in 61.7, 400m in 30.3. Did ok last campaign and now getting ready for another crack. Hasn’t started since May but should be improved again this time in. JT Boe (2g Always B Miki – Bettor Think Quick) The Telfer-trained (and unqualified) runner sat last of three and was still there turning in, brought wide and finished strongly to grab his rivals last 50m. MR:2:03.8, 800m in 60.5, 400m in 29.4. Mum won nine and nearly $100k in stakes, this is her first live foal. From a good family and getting his raceday ‘ticket’ won’t be a problem. Major Secret (2g Art Major – Presidential Affair) Another unqualified pacer from the Telfer team, trailed two and three deep of four, and produced strong burst through the middle last 150m to win going away. MR:2:10.1, 800m in 62.1, 400m in 28.7. Also from a good family including A Fair Of Dance who won in 1:49.2 in America, race day debut can’t be too far away judging by this effort. Note: I Didn’t Know That led for fun early on but ran off the track a lap out and dislodged his driver. McKendrick (3g Sweet Lou – Beaudiene Beaut Babe) The Dunn-trained runner in the hands of stableforeman Rhys Fensom, raced fourth of five throughout, still had plenty to do on straightening, flew last 100m to just miss picking up pacemaker Sharkies Girl. MR:2:04.0, 800m in 59.0, 400m in 28.2. Robert Dunn owns a share in this runner and up from the South Island where he has done his racing, last seen back in May and with natural maturity, should give a good account of himself in upcoming assignments. Delightful Reality (3f Bettors Delight – Major Reality) The Telfer-trained filly trailed pacemaker Change Tact throughout, challenged hard in straight, just missed in a close photo finish. MR:2:05.3, 800m in 60.2, 400m in 29.1. Only had the one start back in June but looks to be much stronger this time in. Plenty of breeding gives her a chance with dam being a half sister to Group 1 performers Ultimate Machete and Ultimate Sniper. Slots (2c Sweet Lou – Spin To Win) Straight to the front with the hammer down and far too good for his rivals, winning officially by 6L. MR:2:04.9, 800m in 59.0, 400m in 28.6. The Telfer team thought enough of him back in September to have him debut against the best 2yo boys in a Sires’ Stakes heat at Cambridge. The result wasn’t flattering but ‘where there is smoke, there might be fire’.Due big respect if he lines up in a maiden in the coming weeks Winton Workouts Friday 24th November Weather Overcast Track Good Pay Me Speedy (6m Mach 3 – Pay Me Painter) In the hands of trainer Chelsea Faithful, the four-win mare settled third of four before improving mid race to lead, came clear at the 400m to put 3L on her closest rival Rakamurph who led then trailed the winner. MR:2:02.8, 800m in 56.9, 400m in 29.1. Hasn’t won for a while but getting to become a mum might help the form. Breeny’s Rock N Roll (5m Rock N Roll Heaven – Breeny’s Passion) Now with Lyndon Bond, the mare gave her four rivals a headstart by being very slow from behind the mobile and raced in last spot mostly before taking closer order approaching the final turn, strong finish to come over the top of her rivals MR:2:04.6, 800m in 58.6, 400m in 30.8. Has only had the one start back in June (at Ashburton) when trained by its owner. Her dam was handy winning four but like her daughter didn’t really hit her straps until an older mare. Raklou (2f Sweet Lou – Raksbet) The Hunter-trained filly worked to the front in a quality four horse trial and kept going strongly to hold her rivals at bay MR:2:03.2, 800m in 55.9, 400m in 28.5. After some untimely setbacks in the spring, she might be ready to show her best, sectionals here suggested that is the case. Always Ticking ran on strongly from three deep and looks like a natural improver, another quality filly. Tact McLeod who hasn’t started since March but who created such a good impression when brought north to Addington was right in the photo after trailing. Another getting ready for a new campaign is nine race winner Sand Wave who was happy enough racing fourth of four and wasn’t asked for a big effort over the final stages, look for him down south over the summer. Ultimate Weapon (2g Bettor’s Delight – Reality Check) A full brother to Group 1 performers in Ultimate Machete and Sniper got his qualifying ticket for trainer Nathan Williamson after racing midfield of five then finishing best to score with something in hand. MR:2:04.8, 800m in 57.4, 400m in 29.2. Has a lot to live up to, best start at the beginning and let’s see what unfolds Wyndham Workouts Saturday 25th November Weather Fine Track Fast Caldwell (5m Sportswriter – Ask McArdle) The Douglas-trained mare got to the front and sprinted sharply to come away from her four rivals in the straight, by nearly 4L at the line.MR:2:05.4, 800m in 57.4, 400m in 27.4 Was a last start winner for then trainer Kirsten Green but that was over a year ago. Connections have kept the faith and her dam was very handy. Scruffy (4g Bettor’s Delight – Caballo Blanco) When he last raced back in April, was trained by Kirk Larsen, now with Tyler Dewe, straight to the front in this heat and came clear in impressive fashion over the concluding stages, officially by 5 1/2L. MR:2:03.4, 800m in 56.5, 400m in 27.9. Didn’t show much in previous campaign but nothing ‘scruffy’ about this effort, stable gaining a reputation for turning horses around. Cambridge Workouts Saturday 25th November Weather Overcast Track Fast Ice Fairy (2f Always B Miki – Snow Fairy) The Neal-trained filly gets another mention after leading and proving too good for her three rivals in the hands of her part owner/trainer. MR:2:08.2, 800m in 59.1, 400m in 29.5. Still unqualified at this time but getting better with the experience and her breeding demands some respect, one to paste away. Caufield (4g Sir Lincoln – Cosi Bella) The Butcher trained runner led and had little trouble holding on from only two rivals including stablemate Brookside Girl (third of three). MR:2:03.8, 800m in 59.9, 400m in 29.4. This was a rather tame affair but what caught the eye was the winner of four now down to a 46 rating and freshened since last racing. View the full article

By Michael Guerin One of the last Group 1s of the season is set to have one of our shortest price favourites at pacing’s elite level all year. Because after Aardie’s Express drew seemingly perfectly at barrier 3 for the $110,000 Woodlands Stud Queen Of Hearts at Alexandra Park on Friday, she is going to dominate betting and be most people’s multi anchor. The pacing season has not been without its Group 1 hotshots, Millwood Nike being the most obvious, but Aardie’s Express will be long odds-on after she won the lead-up race last Friday against most she meets this week. On that occasion she was pulled back to last from barrier 8 whereas on Friday it looks likely she can wrest the lead, with Manhattan inside her having gate speed but likely to hand up. If Manhattan doesn’t that would change the complexion of the race but the market is sure to suggest she will and it would surprise to see Aardie’s Express start much longer than $1.30. Her case has also been aided by Lady Of The Light, who pushed her so close after leading in the Breeders Stakes last Friday, drawing barrier 8. The night’s other feature, the $50,000 Thames Members Trot, sees the return of Dream Of You, who looked one of the most promising trotters in the north last campaign. He won three of his last four for trainer Derek Balle and won at the workouts last week and meets much-improved mare American Muscle and southern mare Resolve, who comes north after a busy last month at Addington. To see the Auckland fields click here View the full article

Buoyed by Lim’s Kosciuszko’s fighting ninth behind the brilliant Golden Sixty at Sha Tin on Sunday, the trainer could be back for Champions Day in AprilView the full article

A lack of suitable options has forced Cody Cole’s hand with unbeaten mare In Extasy (NZ) (Exosphere) to resume at Hastings on Wednesday, despite a wide barrier. The in-form Matamata trainer will rely on jockey Matthew Cameron to work his magic aboard the daughter of Exosphere from the outside gate (12) in the Bramwell Bate Lawyers Handicap (1200m). The five-year-old is one of a quartet of runners for Cole at the Hawke’s Bay meeting where he will hope to add to his recent Central Districts tally after a winning double at Trentham on Saturday with Kind Thoughts (NZ) (Tarzino) and La Verite (De Lago Deluxe). “There’s not much else for her, I don’t think Te Rapa will suit her so we’ll suck it up see what happens,” Cole said. “Whatever she does she will improve plenty, it’s been a long time between runs but she is forward enough to give a good account if Matt can get some luck with her. “She’s a lovely mare with plenty of ability, although she’s had her fair share of issues. It’s been one thing after another, but nothing really major.” Bred by Cole’s mother Lou and raced with Social Racing, In Extasy was a debut winner at Rotorua and following a lengthy break was successful at Tauranga last autumn. “She shied at the winning post and still won so there’s certainly plenty of ability there, she’s just got to keep learning to be a racehorse,” Cole said. “She’s not going to go through life unbeaten, she’s not professional enough yet to keep stringing them together.” Cole will also be represented by Four Square Pete (NZ) (Zed) in the Betta Asbestos Consultancy Maiden (1400m), Born Ruler (NZ) (Tarzino) tackles the HB Saracens Maiden (1600m) and Kai Moana (NZ) (Sweynesse) will step out in the Betta Property Compliance Maiden (1200m). “He’s (Four Square Pete) quite a nice staying horse by Zed and is going to improve a fair bit with time,” Cole said. “He’s got a good group of owners and they really want to get a horse to the Derby (Gr.1, 2400m) and he’s probably one who could be a chance of getting there. “He’s definitely got ability and he trialled nicely at Taupo, he wasn’t screwed down and did it the hard way after being three wide in the open.” Tarzino filly Born Ruler had little luck when unplaced at her New Plymouth debut last month. “It was no fault of Joe Doyles, one came back on her and dragged her back and when she did get going she got held up again,” Cole said. “There’s was a bit of merit in her run and her work has been really good. I quite like her chances, even though she has drawn out a bit and hopefully Matt (Cameron) can overcome that.” Cole’s other representative is the Sweynesse mare Kai Moana, also to be partnered by Elliot, and she finished fifth at Rotorua on Sunday. “She’s going to back up and still wants to do a fair bit wrong, but there’s some ability there,” Cole said. View the full article

Mike Repole said Dec. 11 that he and Todd Pletcher are leaning toward starting Fierceness' 3-year-old campaign in the Feb. 3 Holy Bull Stakes (G3) at Gulfstream Park and then wait about two months for the colt's final pre-Kentucky Derby start.View the full article

Online bookmakers have released their racing promotions for Tuesday, December 12, including several great bonus back offers. The top Australian racing promotions for December 12, 2023, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions This Tuesday use your punters Toolbox. Get Price Boosts, Bet Backs, Fluc Ups, Back Ups & Extra Nudge tools! Available to use on ANY races of your choice. 18+ Gamble Responsibly. General betting rules apply. Neds T&Cs apply. Login to Neds to Claim Promo BoomBet Daily Race Returns Use your daily Race Returns to back a runner in ANY RACE you want* and if your horse doesn’t win but finishes in the specified positions, you get your stake back as a bonus bet. 18+ Gamble responsibly. Can be used across any race and code unless specified in customer’s BoomBox. Fix odds, win bets only. Max bonus $50. Login to BoomBet to Claim Promo How does horsebetting.com.au source its racing bonus offers? HorseBetting has reviewed the top horse racing bookmakers in Australia and has unveiled exclusive thoroughbred bonus promotions and specials for Tuesday, December 12, 2023. These horse racing promotions persist almost daily, showcasing the commitment of Australia’s top horse racing bookmakers. If one bookmaker lacks a promotion, rest assured that another is presenting enticing promotional offers in the realm of gallops. HorseBetting.com.au is your go-to source for the most lucrative horse racing bookmaker bonuses every day. Gain the most value out of your punting endeavours with bookie bonuses with the most competitive horse racing odds available for each race. It’s imperative to note that these thoroughbred racing promotion offers cater exclusively to existing customers. Accessing these special promotions and claiming the bookmaker’s offers requires logging in to each online bookmaker’s platform. For those seeking races and horses to leverage their horse betting bookmaker bonus bets, HorseBetting offers a valuable resource with its daily free racing tips. Stay informed, stay strategic, and make the most of your horse racing experience with these exclusive promotions. More horse racing promotions View the full article

Horse Racing on Tuesday, December 12 will feature four meetings in Australia. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the top bets and the quaddie numbers for the meeting at Hamilton. Tuesday Racing Tips – December 12, 2023 Hamilton Racing Tips Best Horse Racing Bets For December 12, 2023 Place these horse racing bets in a multi for $33.76 odds return: Tuesday, December 12, 2023 Hamilton – Race 5 #2 Ferlazzo Hamilton – Race 7 #5 Light Of Rose Wagga – Race 6 #3 Mischinka Kilcoy – Race 3 #4 Star Chance | Copy this bet straight to your betslip As always there a plenty of promotions available for Australian racing fans, check out all the top online bookmakers to see what daily promotions they have. If you are looking for a new bookmaker for the horse racing taking place on December 12, 2023 check out our guide to the best online racing betting sites. More horse racing tips View the full article

What Happy Valley Races Where Happy Valley Racecourse – Wong Nai Chung Rd, Happy Valley, Hong Kong When Wednesday, December 13, 2023 First Race 6:40pm HKT (9:40pm AEDT) Visit Dabble As the Hong Kong International Races come to a close, we look to the bright lights of Happy Valley on Wednesday evening as the city circuit plays host to a competitive nine-race program. The rail is set in the B position for the meeting, and although there is no rain forecast for Wednesday, the predicted strong winds could mean racing with cover will be a major benefit. The opening race is scheduled for 6:40pm local time. Best Bet at Happy Valley: Beato Beato is winless in 10 Hong Kong starts but appears ready for a peak performance on his first look at Happy Valley. The son of Tavistock has finished in the minor placings his last two starts over the 1400m at Sha Tin and on both occasions closed off to suggest the 1650m would be ideal. He has a soft draw in barrier one, and with James McDonald taking the reins, we would be shocked if Beato wasn’t there when the whips were cracking. Best Bet Race 7 – #2 Beato (1) 5yo Gelding | T: Tony Cruz | J: James McDonald (60.5kg) Bet with Dabble Next Best at Happy Valley: Beauty Destiny Beauty Destiny’s three race starts have left a lot to be desired. The four-year-old gelding is yet to lose a barrier trial, however, and his latest at this course was terrific when leading all the way to score by a staggering 7.3 lengths. We are holding out hope that he can replicate that effort at the races this week, and with Zac Purton on board from barrier one, Beauty Destiny gets one more chance to make amends. Next Best Race 4 – #8 Beauty Destiny (1) 4yo Gelding | T: Frankie Lor | J: Zac Purton (57.5kg) Bet with Picklebet Next Best Again at Happy Valley: Atomic Energy Atomic Energy should get every chance to turn the tables on some key rivals in this 1000m Class 3 sprint. Angus Chung’s 2.5kg claim gets the four-year-old gelding into this event at the featherlight weight of 52kg, meeting the likes of Humble Star 9kg better off. He should gain an economical run in behind the speed, and provided he gets off the rails at a crucial stage, watch for this guy to be flashing down the centre of the course. Next Best Again Race 5 – #6 Atomic Energy (1) 4yo Gelding | T: Tony Cruz | J: Angus Chung (a2.5kg) (54.5kg) Bet with Unibet Happy Valley quaddie tips – 13/12/2023 Hong Kong quadrella selections Wednesday, December 13, 2023 1-4-6-7-11 2-4-8 4-5-7-8-9 1-2-6-8-10-11 More horse racing tips View the full article

Maiden Watch: Week of Dec.4-10View the full article

HISA has established a program to provide pro bono legal representation to eligible covered persons alleged to have violated rules in HISA's Anti-Doping and Medication Control program.View the full article

Edited Press Release From Horseshoe Indianapolis With the close of racing for the 2023 season at Horseshoe Indianapolis comes a new venture for one individual. Tom Congalosi was the winner of the $30,000 ownership option of an Indiana yearling through Road to Louisville, a contest sponsored by Horseshoe Indianapolis and Indiana Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (ITOBA). Tom is now the owner of a new filly named Highspeed Justice (Harry's Holiday), now in training for the 2024 racing season in Indiana. “Never have I ever dreamed of owning a Thoroughbred horse,” said Cangalosi. “Yet today we own Highspeed Justice, purchased at the yearling auction at Horseshoe Indy in October. Pictures after the auction show an owner with the biggest smile possible. You have to wonder about life and the many little coincidences that occur throughout. What a wonderful opportunity. Tom and his wife, Pat, reside in Georgetown, KY. The retired supply chain manager has followed horse racing for decades and has had friends that have dabbled in ownership, but this is the first time he had crossed over into the sport as a participant. Tom is the second winner of a horse from the Road to Louisville contest, which spanned 16 weeks from mid-January to the Kentucky Derby the first Saturday in May. Each week, horseplayers were tasked to select horses in a mock $2 Win-Place-Show format with points accumulating toward the final. Jeffrey Hampton was the overall winner of the $1,000 grand prize but did not opt in for the $30,000 horse option. Therefore, Tom, who finished second, was the recipient of $500 as prize money along with the option to purchase an Indiana yearling at the ITOBA Fall Sale in October. That's where Tom took the plunge into horse ownership when the filly Highspeed Justice was sold to him for $6,700. The remaining balance of the option will go into an account to pay for expenses for the filly, who sold as the fifth horse in the sales ring. Prior to the sale, Tom chose Tim Eggleston to train his new acquisition. Highspeed Justice is currently at Eggleston's farm in southern Indiana and began her training regime at the beginning of December. “We started with our Quarter Horse yearlings first and got them broke and then started in on our Thoroughbred yearlings the first of December,” explained Eggleston. “So far, we really like the filly Tom (Congalosi) bought at the sale. She seems very sensible and is getting settled in. I think he got a nice value for the price, and we are excited to see what she can do next summer.” As far as venturing into unknown territory, Tom is adjusting to his new role in racing. The longtime horseplayer has a deep passion for the sport that appears to be expanding with the addition of Highspeed Justice. “Tom (Congalosi) has been great so far,” added Eggleston. “He's really trying to educate himself on being an owner and trying to understand all the things that go on behind the scenes with the filly. He and his wife, Pat, plan to come up to the farm to see her over the winter, so we are excited to have him as part of our team.” Tom and Pat are currently taking care of small details, from licensing to designing their silks, in preparation for the racing season at Horseshoe Indianapolis in 2024. “We are excited to be part of ITOBA and joining the many members that have built careers around the horse breeding and racing industry. You're never too old to learn. We look forward to the Spring meet and watching Highspeed Justice win her way to, wait a minute, I'm getting ahead of myself,” Tom laughed. The post Congalosi Prepares For New Venture In Horse Ownership appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Tom Congalosi was the winner of the $30,000 ownership option of an Indiana yearling through Road to Louisville, a handicapping contest sponsored by Horseshoe Indianapolis and Indiana Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (ITOBA). View the full article

The Goffs December National Hunt sale continued a streak of good economic indicators on the auction calendar with the opening session showing noteworthy increases as the €110,000 price for the top lot (157A, a wildcard entry) was the highest for a NH foal anywhere in 2023. Said lot is a Walk In The Park (Ire) weanling half-brother to Stage Star (Ire) (Fame And Glory {GB}), both out of the classy hurdle mare Sparky May (GB) (Midnight Legend {GB}). He went to Richard Frisby, who had struck earlier for lot 101, a Blue Bresil colt, after a bidding battle despite appearing to bow out at one point. In total, 119 horses sold for a turnover of €1,957,000, up 27 per cent from last season, with an average of €16,446, an increase of eight per cent. The selective market ruled the day, however, as the clearance rate came in at 61 per cent. The post Half-Brother to Stage Star Tops Day 1 of Goffs December NH Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Adam Hamilton Swayzee has the draw to add the Inter Dominion final to his recent New Zealand Cup romp. Jason Grimson’s latest and best star yet had a big win in the barrier draw with gate three, compared to his half-brother and main danger, Leap To Fame in gate six. It sparked a dramatic change in betting with Swayzee firming from as much as $4.50 pre-draw into $2, while Leap To Fame eased from $1.65 to $2.60. Grimson is trying to become the first trainer in Inter Dominion history to win three successive pacing finals with different horses. He won with Boncel Benjamin on protest at Menangle in 2021 and I Cast No Shadow at Melton last year. Much debate ensued after the draw as to whether Leap To Fame had enough speed to get across Swayzee in the dash to the first turn. That will go a long way to deciding the race. Just as fascinating is the battle for the early lead between Swayzee’s stablemate and the “find” of the series Nerano from gate one and sparkling beginner Turn It Up in two. Whichever wins that battle will sit on Swayzee or Leap To Fame, depending who is first to tackle for the front. Grimson was thrilled with the draws for Swayzee and Nerano. “They’re both about perfect for each of them,” he said. “I wanted one or eight for Nerano and for Swayzee to draw inside Leap To Fame. “I think Nerano’s a chance of holding out Turn It Up early. He’s quick out. Being on the pegs is perfect for him. “I thought he was a place chance before the heats because of his speed, but Cam (Hart) has driven him well and built his confidence through the series.” Grimson isn’t fazed by Swayzee’s defeats in his second and third round heats. “No, not at all. He hasn’t much go right and been terrific through the line both times,” he said. “He’s actually put on weight through the series, so he’ll do some serious work this week and be primed for the final. “If he can be up front and rolling, you’ll see the best of him.” Swayzee won his first 10 starts for Grimson by controlling his races on the speed. Leap To Fame, who will come into gate five if emergency Cantfindabettorman doesn’t gain a start from barrier five, has been plagued by tricky barriers in big races this year. His four defeats in 14 starts have largely been because of draws and/or having to do the work outside the leader. Sit-sprinters like Better Eclipse (gate 11), Spirit Of St Louis (nine) and Speak The Truth (10) will need Leap To Fame and Swayzee to go to war up front now they have all drawn the back row. “We’ve never had him (Better Eclipse) better, but the draw certainly leaves us in the hands of others. There’s a big chance Swayzee and Leap To Fame will really go at each other and if they do, I think we can be a live chance.” While the pacing draw has added intrigue to the final, the draw for the trotting final has seen Just Believe’s dominance become vice-like. The defending champ drew gate four and most expect he will push forward and take the lead from polemarker Mufasa Metro. Chris Alford has no option but to pull the ripcord on Kiwi-owned mare Queen Elida from (gate five) outside Just Believe and try to cross him, but Sugars can’t see that happening. “Yes, Chris has probably got to have a crack, but I’m not worried. I’m sure we’ll hold him,” he said. Just Believe has been supreme going through the heats unbeaten as he did last year, but in contrast to last year when he drew wide on the back row, this time he’s drawn the best of the big guns. “He’s better than he’s ever been and the draw has been kind. We’re looking forward to Saturday night,” Sugars said. INTER DOMINION BARRIER DRAWS PACERS: Front row: Nerano, Turn It Up, Swayzee, Future Assured, Cantfindabettorman (emergency), Leap To Fame, Kanena Provlima. Back row: Classie Washington, Spirit Of St Louis, Speak The Truth, Better Eclipse, Petes Said So, Our Money Rocks. TROTTERS: Front row: Mufasa Metro, Funny Face, Majestic Lavros, Just Believe, Queen Elida, Ollivici, Van Sank. Back row: Sir Fahrenheit, Constantinople (emergency), Plymouth Chubb, Thebestbourbon, Adelle, Gus. View the full article

Observations on the European Racing Scene turns the spotlight on the best European races of the day, highlighting well-pedigreed horses early in their careers, horses of note returning to action and young runners that achieved notable results in the sales ring. Tuesday's Insights features the half-sister to G1 Gold Cup hero Courage Mon Ami (GB) (Frankel {GB}). 18.00 Southwell, Nov, £6,600, 2yo, 7f 14y (AWT) John and Thady Gosden trainee DANIELLE (GB) (Cracksman {GB}) is kin to five black-type performers headed by this year's G1 Gold Cup hero Courage Mon Ami (GB) (Frankel {GB}). Her nine rivals include King Power Racing's fellow newcomer Midnight's Dream (Ire) (Cappella Sansevero {Ire}), a half-brother to last term's G1 Prix de l'Abbaye runner-up White Lavender (Ire) (Heeraat {Ire}), from the Roger Varian stable. The post Observations: Half-sister to Courage Mon Ami Set for Southwell Introduction appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Carenot (Ire) (Iffraaj {GB}), a half-sister to the G1 Phoenix S. winner Dick Whittington (Ire) (Rip Van Winkle {Ire}), topped the third day of the Arqana Breeding Stock Sale in Deauville at €72,000. The 10-year-old mare is a dual winner and her first three foals have all also won two races, including the Listed-placed Liberalist (GB) (Pivotal {GB}). Offered in foal to Earthlight (Ire) as lot 582 from Haras du Lieu des Champs, Carenot was bought by Whitehorn Bloodstock on behalf of Emir Alkas of Alkas Stud in Turkey. Alkas's previous purchases at Arqana's December Sale include Naan (Ire) for €17,000. From that daughter of Indian Charlie he bred the 2020 G3 Solario S. winner Etonian (Ire) (Olympic Glory {Ire}). Leading the weanling division was a colt by Galiway (GB) (lot 604), whose stock continue to prove popular with both Flat and National Hunt buyers. This son of the Group 3-placed Stormyra (Fr) (Stormy River {Ire}) is a half-brother to three winners and was signed for by Peter and Ross Doyle at €51,000 from the draft of JK Thoroughbreds. The colt's four-year-old half-sister Stormania (Fr) (Goken {Fr}) was sold immediately prior to her sibling as lot 603 from Haras de Colleville and, in foal to Galiway, she brought a bid of €35,000. Though the figures from Monday's session are in stark contrast to those witnessed on Saturday, they are largely keeping pace with last year. From a slightly smaller comparative session, the clearance rate dropped by 4% to 75% for 187 of the 250 horses sold on the day. The median remained at €8,500, the average was up by 4% at €12,070, and with 29 fewer horses sold this year, the aggregate dropped 11% to €2,257,000. With one session remaining at Arqana, the overall turnover looks set to follow the downward trend seen in Ireland and Britain so far this season. The post Arqana Session Topper to Alkas Stud appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

In his resignation email, Stead praised the efforts of those involved in the sport in California, saying racing in the state "is in good hands."View the full article

Baroness Dido Harding will become the first female senior steward of the British Jockey Club next year after her appointment was confirmed at the organization's winter meeting Dec. 11.View the full article

The catalogue for the Ocala Breeders' Sales Company's Winter Mixed Sale is now online at www.obssales.com. The two-day sale is set for Jan. 23 and 24. There are 248 yearlings cataloged by a diverse group of proven and promising sires, as well as mares in foal to an outstanding roster of up-and-coming sires. Supplemental entries are being accepted until Jan. 12. For supplement information and entries, visit JanuaryEntryForms. The sale's first session begins at Jan. 23 at noon with hips numbers one through 122, plus supplements, catalogued in the Consignor Preferred Session. The Horses of Racing Age Session, catalogued as hips 201 through 265, plus supplements, begins immediately following the conclusion of the Preferred Session. The Open Session, with hips 401 through 643, plus supplements, will begin Jan. 24, also at noon. The Under Tack Show for the Horses of Racing Age Section is set for Jan. 22 at 9 a.m. OBS will again offer online bidding during the Winter Mixed Sale. For complete information on registration and online bidding, visit obs-online-bidding. The post OBS Winter Mixed Sale Catalogue Online appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk Cambridge trainer Mike Berger has travelled south for today’s meeting at Manawatu – and it feels like an ambush. Much to his surprise race 5 is the Happy 70th Birthday Mike Berger Mobile pace. “I didn’t know anything about it,” Berger says, “plus I didn’t want the whole world knowing how old I was!” Berger turned 70 over the weekend. “I asked whose idea it was but haven’t heard a thing as yet,” he laughs. “But it’s pretty cool. I’ve always enjoyed the Manawatu and Palmerston North – the club does a great job” Fittingly Berger will have a live chance in the race, with Lady La Salle rated a big show. She has had two wins and three placings on the course from just eight starts, including a second behind Full Of Desire on November 23. With a career record of three wins from 34 starts, her last win on course was on November 13. “She can be a bit moody but she’s going through a wee purple patch of form at the moment.” Berger has also just brought up another milestone. When Cos I Can won at Alexandra Park last Friday (paying $14.40) Berger brought up his 700th training success, a day before his 70th birthday. His first win was with Supreme Ruler, driven by Tony Herlihy, at Cambridge in 1982 while his highest profile was in 2002. When training in partnership with Warren Rich, they quinellaed the New Zealand Cup with Gracious Knight and Facta Non Verba. These days he trains a team of 11, with seven of them in at Manawatu today. How fitting it will be if Lady La Salle can continue what has already been a big few days. “I would say she’s the best of my chances.” Race 5 The Happy 70th Birthday Mike Berger Mobile Pace is set to go at 5.30pm View the full article

With the Arqana sales closing out our breeding stock sales season, there were some very stark warnings for the industry in Europe. Plenty have highlighted the dire situation at the lower end of the market with a frightening number of mares failing to sell for even the covering fee of the foal inside them. However, it is also far from rosy at the top end of the market for our domestic product. Analysing the 143 mares/fillies that sold for £200,000+ at the three main sales (Goffs November, Tatts December and Arqana), over half will be leaving European shores and travelling to Japan, Australia or America. Obviously this is not an exact science as a number of lots were knocked down to agents or aliases. However, I'm fairly confident to within a 10% error margin with the figures. Australian entities (including all Yulong pseudonyms) signed for the most number of £200k+ lots (35 in total over 24%) and spent over £20.1 million (21%). The Japanese were stronger than ever and bought 17 lots (12%) and spent over £13.3 million (14%). The Americans bought 20 lots (14%) and spent over £9.2 million (10%). English Studs bought 29 lots (20%) for a total of just over £20 million (21%). Were you to take out Juddmonte's two major purchases, Godolphin's sole purchase and Graham Smith Bernal's continued significant support, this would look even more dire with only a little over £11 million spent. Coolmore, as ever, reinvested heavily and helped keep Ireland high up in the list. In total, 23 (16%) of the £200k+ lots look likely to head to Ireland for an outlay of over £24.9 million (26%). French interests bought 17 (12%) lots for £6.1 million (6%) while German studs bought just two. While these figures alone are highly worrying, when comparing them to just ten years ago, you realise that we could be well past the tipping point. Back then over 74% (in comparison to just 49% now) of the 136 fillies/mares that sold at the corresponding sales stayed in Europe. Furthermore, over 32% stayed in England whereas only a tick over 20% will stay in England from this year. Such a rapid trajectory in the wrong direction needs to somehow be halted or we will lose our seat at the top table of the racing world. The BHA and all factions of the racing hierarchy need to put self-interest to one side and work in cohesion to address the issue. Not only will we not be producing enough horses to fill the racing programme, but the quality will continue to slide in comparison to our counterparts in other jurisdictions. Tom Pritchard-Gordon, Badgers Bloodstock The post Letter to the Editor: Heed Stark Sales Warnings appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

In his resignation email, Stead praised the efforts of those involved in the sport in California, saying racing in the state "is in good hands."View the full article

Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges has been at the helm of the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) since 2007, presiding over a significant expansion of the Asian racing scene. Emmanuel Roussel received an update from the CEO during last weekend's Hong Kong International meeting, with topics including the development of racing at Conghua on the Chinese mainland, and the potential for the HKJC to establish a breeding bases in Europe and Australia to boost its supply of Thoroughbreds. Emmanuel Roussel: The international week is always a great event, so close to the festive season. Are you happy with what was under the Christmas tree for the Club? Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges: It's great that we are back in full swing. Last year, we were open but not yet quite out of our bubble, while what we saw [at the International Jockeys' Championship] with such a tremendous atmosphere, demonstrates that the city's vibrancy is back. The night went extremely well. And for me, one of the highlights was Vincent Ho winning the International Jockeys Championship. His victory meant a lot to Hong Kong people. Despite economic challenges and some geopolitical tensions, Hong Kong can be a centre of growth and excellence. That was a great symbol. Vincent is one of the most professional athletes you can find. During COVID, Amy, our head of the Sports Institute, said that very few athletes showed such dedication in training. And I want to really express my gratitude to Ryan Moore for having helped Vincent to develop into the great athlete he has become. ER: The Club must also share the pride of Hong Kong, since Vincent is a local apprentice… WE-B: This is one of our strengths. We put people and systems in place to develop our community. And we have transferred the same now to Conghua, our mainland training centre. We went from zero to 600 people there. Most had never seen a horse before. And if you go to Conghua today, you can always appreciate their horsemanship. We enabled platforms which allow us, since last month, to issue vocational training licenses in Conghua. We can bring up people from every province to follow vocational training to become jockeys and horse workers. That's quite a breakthrough. ER: What is next at Conghua? WE-B: In April, we will be able to show more. We are still building and will have to complete phase two of our stable expansion with another 450 spaces. We will also have the staff accommodation ready. The topping of the grandstand should be completed in February, too. It is planned to accommodate 10,000 people, as it is supposed to be a boutique racecourse. I have to admit that I'm very excited about it. This is one of the most iconic grandstands I know, built with full design on sustainability. Seventy per cent of the energy will be produced on site. And then we have plans for a wind farm which will be five or six kilometres away, that would allow us complete energetic independence. ER: What about racing at Conghua? WE-B: The first race meeting is planned for April 2026. We have to finish everything by October 2025, and then practice for six months, running simulations. ER: First race in April 2026, and then? WE-B: We will have the first meeting in April, and then that will do for the season. The following season, in 26/27, we will probably conduct one meeting a month in Conghua, from October to April. ER: What is the Club's long-term plan in China? WE-B: This is only a part of our overall strategy for China. We want to contribute to the National Equine Industry Development Programme, which was published in 2020 by the Minister of Agriculture and the Ministry of Sport. We now try to outline an equine value chain and this includes breeding, training people, holding auctions and races, and horses going back into breeding. This is a long-term plan that would also include veterinary studies. Equine veterinary science is one of the development areas where one would need further progress. Last week, we met 160 equestrian vets from all over China in Conghua and they are really keen. We want to build a specific one-year training programme for equestrian vets. ER: Will Conghua become the centre of the Club's strategy in China? WE-B: We want to create a sustainable model in Conghua. Around 90 owners from all over China joined our members' clubhouse in Beijing. We will open up another such clubhouse in Shenzen, which will also be cultivating interest in horseracing, including an equestrian interest. In September, we will open an Institute of Philanthropy, through which we will make donations to China. People have to understand we are not only a racing institution, and especially not only a wagering organisation. What I found really fascinating in our surveys and the discussions we have had with potential owners is their will to understand breeding and racing, but rather from a sporting and cultural point of view. It's a little bit like what you find in Japan. ER: How is ownership doing in Hong Kong at the moment? WE-B: We don't have an ownership issue per se. There is a risk of an ageing ownership population you have to build up again. Many owners also lost interest in owning a horse during COVID because they could not go to the track. This has resulted in a higher retirement rate in the last two years. Secondly, owners used to go to the sales a year or two before getting their purchases home, and they have not been able to travel to buy during COVID. Therefore, they couldn't replace the horses they were retiring sooner. The optimal number of horses in training in Hong Kong is 1,280. We have probably at the moment 1,160 horses ready to run, that's 120 short due to these effects. The economic situation will probably delay the recovery. It will probably take a year and a half to two years to build back up to the normal level, and we need this for Conghua. ER: How do you recruit new owners? WE-B: We recruit potential young owners through our racing club. Traditionally, young club members are not allowed to own horses on their own for a while. We have 1,400 racing club members and 200 of those are very keen to become owners. So, we have created a pipeline racing club to allow them to be syndicate owners, and then become partnership owners or individual owners. ER: You also have opened the doors to foreign owners last year… WE-B: Yes, major breeders and owners can now come through our overseas ownership scheme. We have now some prominent owners from South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. We must do this carefully, because we want to be sure that they are really committed and we look at a combination of owners and breeders because, in the end, we will venture more into the breeding industry. And if you look at owner-breeders, they usually show longer stamina and they have a greater interest because they can breed horses and showcase their horses. ER: Talking of breeding, are you also looking for breeding ventures in China? WE-B: The Beijing government looks at the industry and sees that we have unique skills that we can share. Beijing understands what a developed equine industry can give. Besides, a lot of the breeding or training would be located in rural areas and would have a great impact on rural economy. It already has in Conghua. The economic impact there is already significant and growing. If you look at related industries, starting with bedding and other supplies, you create supply routes, logistic networks that boost the overall local economic development. ER: Meanwhile, has the ever-growing sales market in Australia created issues to recruit new horses? WE-B: We currently have a significant supply chain issue. Prices have gone through the roof. We bought a lot of horses from Australia, and it gets more and more difficult to buy them because they are owned by syndicates. So we have now a turned-down offer of A$1.7 million for a three-year-old who won one race and a Listed race. I see that if China opens, we will need a bigger supply chain. This is the reason why we are exploring strategic partnerships or maybe even buying ourselves a breeding or racing operation in the Northern Hemisphere and in the Southern Hemisphere. We need approximately 450 horses every year. If at least a quarter is guaranteed, our supply chain is back on. We will relaunch the Hong Kong International sales and if you look at the quality of horses that will come out of them, you will notice that it's completely different from what we had five years ago. ER: How far into this project are you already? WE-B: We have certain targets. All I can say is that we are beyond the feasibility study. We still have to assess the opportunities. There may be clusters if you buy a couple of operations that you combine, but this would not be run by the Jockey Club, rather by industry experts in this field. ER: Where would you elect to establish a breeding operation in the Northern Hemisphere? WE-B: We would be aiming more for Europe because of our focus on turf races. Australia will always be a key provider of horses but most of them are sprinters. When it comes to a mile and further, it's another story. We have already started to slightly shift our racing programme for it to focus less on short distances. I am not willing to talk about cheap speed but if there isn't enough quality available, we'll go to 1,400m and over. This shift will affect our supply chain, as Europe is a more appropriate provider of such horses. We will not focus on 2,400m horses because it's not appropriate for our climate and our trainers. Our focus will be more on horses to compete on distances from 1,400 to 2,000 metres. ER: Can you provide an update on the World Pool? WE-B: The World Pool keeps expanding and I think that in every continent people now see the benefit of this. I can understand why fixed-odds, especially in Australia, is so successful now: 83% of the win and place bets in Australia are fixed-odds. It is, I think, because of the number of daily meetings there – it is like every minute – and there is not enough liquidity. If you want to have a real bet with such limited pools, you can't. But with the liquidity gathered by World Pool, with the different views of the world from Hong Kong, from Great Britain, from Australia, you offer prices that a fixed-odds betting product cannot match. Suddenly, the bookmakers could not lay off certain things, because the value of the Word Pool product was too high. Customers get a choice. However, I don't see bookmakers as mere competitors. Pari-mutuel gives the highest return to the industry and the industry needs growth. Secondly, there are certain bet types that cannot be operated as fixed-odds bets. They are different products, offering different opportunities. We want to have the best 100 races in the world to be made available in the World Pool. We are working on a new platform and new wagering information protocol, which hopefully could be launched through a first pilot in April or May. We then would have the ability to take exotic bets on quartet, to six up to triple trio, and include wagers from the bookmakers into such pools. Bookmakers could find an interest in connecting with the World Pool, and that could be an option for them. What is important is differentiation. You need to have enough time between races to build up your liquidity. The next development would be more combined meetings. We did this already in France and Germany, and we could look at something like the Everest and the Caulfield Guineas, in Australia. We have done the top races as a separate, highly attractive product, and we could focus on quality to reach that level of differentiation from the intense simulcasting you find in Australia or in England. It's too much. We did a lot of market research, and it comes to this: horse racing cannot be a game of chance. It cannot be only a game of somebody's tips. You must make your own judgment. This research was conducted in Hong Kong, and you would have to do more studies globally but one of the reasons why the World Pool works is that it doesn't promote a game of chance. It is a game alright, but people get satisfaction in working on their own strategies and analysis to pick a winner. If you have a start every two minutes, you can't do that. The post ‘We Have a Significant Supply Chain Issue’: Engelbrecht-Bresges on the Need For More Horses in Hong Kong appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A trio of law firms will now be available to provide pro-bono legal representation to eligible recipients under the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA)'s newly established program. The program, open to covered persons who fall below a certain income threshold and are alleged to have violated HISA's Anti-Doping and Medication Control (ADMC) Program, will match recipients with volunteer attorneys who have agreed to provide legal services without any expectation of compensation. The participating lawyers include Howard Jacobs, Jackson Kelly's Equine Group, and Wyatt Tarrant & Combs, LLP. “We are pleased to participate in HISA's Covered Person Pro Bono Program, so that those who truly cannot afford a lawyer can have access to the same depth of experience and zealous representation that we provide to all of our non pro bono clients,” said Howard Jacobs, international sports law attorney specializing in disciplinary cases involving anti-doping and other disputes. “As a result of HISA's Covered Person Pro Bono Program, we hope that no covered person will feel that they simply cannot afford to defend themselves against a potentially life-changing charge.” Jay Ingle, Chair of Jackson Kelly's Equine Group, said, “Jackson Kelly is always glad to help support the industries we serve. We quickly said yes when asked to participate in this program and donate our legal services and expertise, and hope that our contributions will help the sport and the horsemen and women in it.” Craig Robertson, Partner-In-Charge, Lexington Office of Wyatt Tarrant & Combs, LLP, said, “The Wyatt firm is honored to be part of the HISA Covered Person Pro Bono Program to support those in need of legal assistance and to help promote the health and well-being of Thoroughbred racing and the equine industry as a whole.” If the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit (HIWU) has alleged that a covered person committed an ADMC Rule Violation, and the covered person has an annual household adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less and no significant liquid assets, the covered person will be eligible for free legal services from a volunteer attorney and limited reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the volunteer attorney. “I am incredibly proud to be launching this free legal services initiative, the first of its kind in American sport,” said HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus. “Providing all Covered Persons with the tools to properly defend themselves in these cases is critical to ensuring integrity in our ADMC program adjudication procedures. We don't want the cost of legal services to ever be a barrier to pursuing a rigorous defense. I'm grateful to the reputable law firms and experienced attorneys who have already agreed to participate, and I look forward to expanding their ranks.” The post Lawyers Available for HISA Covered Person Pro Bono Program appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Last year's Eclipse Champion 3-Year-Old Epicenter is the first stallion that Coolmore's Ashford Stud has stood for Winchell Thoroughbreds and the partnership got off to a blazing start as the son of Not This Time was one of the most popular stallions in Kentucky this year, covering 262 mares in his debut season. Now, Coolmore has teamed up with the same racing and breeding operation to debut another Grade I-winning stallion–this time a homebred son of Winchell's own Gun Runner. Gunite, who claimed the GI Hopeful S. as a juvenile and won at the top level again this year at four in the GI Forego S., will stand for an initial fee of $40,000 in 2024. When Gun Runner was bursting onto the scene as a first-crop sire in 2021, Gunite broke his maiden in June at Churchill Downs on the same card that Gun Runner got his first stakes horse as a sire with another Steve Asmussen trainee Wicked Halo, who placed in the Debuante S. Soon after that, Gunite claimed the GI Hopeful S. the day after future champion Echo Zulu gave Gun Runner his first Grade I score in the Spinaway S. “Durable is the word to describe Gunite,” said Coolmore's Adrian Wallace. “He ran six times in all as a 2-year-old, showing his soundness and fortitude and culminating in a very impressive display beating Wit (Practical Joke), who was a very accomplished horse in his own right, at Saratoga in the Hopeful. I think the thing about him was he had a 'never say die' attitude. He was a highly accomplished, precocious 2-year-old who then traveled around the world at three and later on at four.” Over a three-year career, Gunite placed in all but two of his 21 starts, recording eight stakes victories. The winner of the GII Amsterdam S. and runner-up to eventual studmate Jack Christopher in the GI H. Allen Jerkens Memorial S. at three, Gunite's 4-year-old campaign this year was marked by a rivalry with MGISW Elite Power (Curlin) that spanned from the Middle East to Saratoga to California. Gunite got the better of Elite Power in the GI Forego S.,winning by nearly two lengths, and finished second to the same rival in his final career start in the GI Breeders' Cup Sprint. “He broke his maiden in June of his 2-year-old year, won the Hopeful, and then competed at a very high level in all three years of his racing career,” said Wallace. “I think in today's environment, a horse that is able to win two Grade I races, place in five more and compete at the highest level not only in the United States but in Saudi Arabia and in Dubai, that shows how sound and durable of a horse he is.” Gunite scores in the GI Forego S. | Sarah Andrew Wallace attributes much of Gunite's speed and toughness to his pedigree. The 4-year-old hails from three generations of stakes winners and his dam, Simple Surprise, is a daughter of Cowboy Cal (Giant's Causeway) who won the Bolton Landing S. for the Winchells and Asmussen in 2015. “I think the main thing when you consider a horse like him is how similar he is in many ways to his sire Gun Runner and how similar he is to both Cowboy Cal and Giant's Causeway himself,” Wallace explained. “He was ultra, ultra tough and the great thing about the Gun Runners is that they are tough, sound horses. When you combine that with two doses of the Iron Horse's blood, you get horses that are going to be built for durability and brilliance.” Wallace added that the new stallion should have all the potential to not only pass on his own brilliance and precocity, but also the two-turn ability shown on both sides of his pedigree. Wallace said that Gunite, who is just over 16'1, is a standout physically as well. “He is a great combination of Gun Runner's and Giant's Causeway's blood,” he explained. “Cowboy Cal was a very elegant racehorse himself and is becoming quite a good broodmare sire from very limited opportunity. Gunite has a lot of leg and is very balanced. Priced at $40,000, as a dual Grade I-winning son of Gun Runner, I think he'll fit a lot of people's bill.” The post Gunite Follows Fellow Winchell Colorbearer to Ashford appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article