Wandering Eyes

After a break of just over 100 days, elite-level racing returns to the Japanese racing scene, as a full field of 18 is set to face the starter in Sunday's Sprinters' S. at Nakayama Racecourse. Five of the entrants are making a repeat appearance in the 1200-metre test, including Namura Clair (Jpn) (Mikki Isle {Jpn}), who was a sound fifth in last year's running in what was her final appearance as a 3-year-old. After besting First Force (Jpn) (Lord Kanaloa {Jpn}) in the G3 Silk Road S. in January, the filly was runner-up to that rival in a soggy-turf renewal of the G1 Takamatsunomiya Kinen Mar. 26. An even eighth to the GI Breeders' Cup Mile-bound Songline (Jpn) (Kizuna {Jpn}) in the G1 Victoria Mile in May, she most recently overcame a wide trip from a double-digit barrier to take out the G3 Keeneland Cup at Sapporo Aug. 27. She has drawn the inside stall for this return to Group 1 competition. “She's filled out a lot more and is able to concentrate better on what's needed in a race, whether it's speed or closing well at the finish,” said jockey Suguru Hamanaka. “She's certainly in good condition, and she should run well if everything goes her way.” Aguri (Jpn) (Caravaggio), a grandson of GISW Together (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}), cost nearly $1 million at the 2020 JRHA Select Sale and is battle tested for a relatively lightly raced horse. Victorious in a Group 3 test over 1400 metres on seasonal debut Feb. 26, he weakened to seventh in the easy ground in the Takamatsunomiya Kinen and was fifth behind Lucky Sweynesse (NZ) (Sweynesse {Aus}) in the G1 Chairman's Sprint Prize in Hong Kong Apr. 30. Resuming as a 3-1 chance in the G2 Centaur S. Sept. 10, he fell far behind, but whooshed home to be second to front-running T M Spada (Jpn) (Red Spada {Jpn}) while covering his final 600m in a race-fastest :32.4. Jasper Krone (Frosted) looks to become the second American-bred winner of the Sprinters' in succession after Gendarme (Kitten's Joy) pulled off a 19-1 surprise last fall. Possessed of blistering speed, he'll try to outfoot them from a high alley and go as far and as fast as he can. The 4-year-old has employed all-the-way tactics in consecutive Group 3 scores at this distance, including a half-length defeat of Sodashi (Jpn) (Kurofune)'s full-sister Mama Cocha (Jpn) in the Kitakyushu Kinen at the end of August. Pixie Knight (Jpn) (Maurice {Jpn}) won this as a 3-year-old in 2021 and was a sneaky good eighth in the Centaur, and All at Once (Jpn) (Makfi {GB}) also has longshot claims, as he weaved his way through traffic under deft handling to upset the G3 Ibis Summer Dash down the 1000-metre straight at Niigata first off a year layoff July 30. The post Namura Clair Drawn Cosily For Sprinters’ As Group 1 Racing Returns to Japan appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

West Point's Terry Finley, leading trainer Kenny McPeek and others have been announced as speakers for the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association's Pedigree & Conformation Clinic on Monday, Oct. 23 at Fasig-Tipton in Lexington, Kentucky. The day-long clinic will take place on the first day of Fasig Tipton's Kentucky October Yearling sale. Attendees will learn insights on different aspects of Thoroughbred auctions, bloodstock, pedigree, and conformation analysis, and more from industry professionals as well as enjoy a day at the sales. The topics and speakers at the clinic include: • Role of the Auction House & Auction Process, presented by Anna Seitz-Ciannello (Fasig-Tipton, Director of Client Relations) • Thoroughbred Horse Racing Partnerships, presented by Terry Finley (West Point Thoroughbreds, President & CEO) • Yearling Prep for the Sales, presented by Katie Taylor (Taylor Made Sales, Vice President of Operations) • Horse Selection/Conformation/Pedigree, presented by Kenny McPeek (Multiple Graded Stakes Winning Trainer and Leading Thoroughbred Bloodstock Advisor) • Equine Insurance, presented by Tyler Clarke (Clay Ward Agency) • Equineline & Pedigree Resources, presented by Susan Martin (The Jockey Club Information Systems, Director of Marketing) • Grayson-Jockey Club Current Research, presented by Jamie Haydon (Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, President) and Johnny Mac Smith, DVM (Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, Veterinary Advisor) Registration is available online, until Friday, Oct. 20, at: toba.memberclicks.net/seminars-clinics. The post Speakers at Upcoming Pedigree and Conformation Clinic at Fasig-Tipton include Terry Finley and Kenny McPeek appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A colt by Anchor Down out of the unraced Half Ours mare Solo Buena was purchased by Noble Oaks Farm for $90,000 to top Thursday's Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association's Breeders Yearling Sale. Hip 131 is a full-brother to the stakes-placed Swot Analysis and a half-brother to multiple stakes winner Free Drop Maddy (Free Drop Billy). The top three yearlings in the sale were all sold by Clear Creek Stud LLC, agent. A total of 120 yearlings sold for a gross of $1,306,100, an average of $10,884 and a median of $6,000. There were 40 RNAs. Followed by mixed session, two weanlings sold for a gross of $6,700 and an average of $2,350. One horse of racing age sold for $1,000 and 23 broodmares sold for a gross of $67,300 and an average of $2,926. The overall gross for the sale was $1,381,100. Complete results can be found on the LTBA Website. The post 90k Anchor Down Colt Tops Louisiana Yearling Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Up to a mile for the first time in Friday's G3 Prix Thomas Bryon Jockey Club de Turquie at Saint-Cloud, Baron Edouard De Rothschild's TDN Rising Star Alcantor (Fr) (New Bay {GB}) made light work of the test to put himself to the forefront of the year's home-trained juveniles. Successful here and at Chantilly either side of a third to Havana Cigar (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}) over a six-furlong trip that was too sharp at Chantilly in July, the Andre Fabre trainee was always in his comfort zone tagging on to the back of the field with Mickael Barzalona content to wait. Allowing White Birch Farm's fellow TDN Rising Star Havana Cigar first run in the straight, the €180,000 Arqana December Foal purchase was finally unleashed wide of the remainder to take control a furlong out en route to a comfortable 2 1/2-length success. The Aga Khan's unexposed Saganti (Fr) (Zarak {Fr}) got up for second, a short neck ahead of Havana Cigar who appeared to tire late. “His last race was the perfect education to teach him to relax after he had done too much in front on his second start,” Edouard De Rothschild said. “We also made the right decision not to run him in the Prix des Chenes at Longchamp on a day when the temperature reached new heights. He is certainly a very good horse with a lot of talent and it would be nice for his future career at stud to try to win a Group 1 this year, so the Criterium International is a possibility. We will first see how he comes out of this race and then decide then if we run him again this season or wait for 2024.” Pedigree Notes Alcantor's dam Bianca De Medici (GB) (Medicean {GB}), a half to the stakes-winning Hungarian champion Thunder Teddington (GB) (Halling), is also responsible for the G2 Union-Rennen winner Boscaccio (Ger) (Mount Nelson {GB}). She is a granddaughter of the Haras du Quesnay broodmare of note Trevillari (Riverman), a full-sister to the G1 Prix Saint-Alary heroine Treble who produced the GI Shoemaker Breeders' Cup Mile-placed Tsigane (Fr) (Anabaa) and the dam of the brilliant dual G1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe heroine Treve (Fr) (Motivator {GB}). Also connected to last year's G2 Moonee Valley Gold Cup winner Francesco Guardi (Ire) (Frankel {GB}) and the multiple champion Triptych, Bianca De Medici's yearling filly by Romanised (Ire) was a €170,000 purchase by Haras de Meautry at last month's Arqana Deauville August Yearling Sale. She also has a filly foal by Waldgeist (GB). Friday, Saint-Cloud, France PRIX THOMAS BRYON JOCKEY CLUB DE TURQUIE-G3, €80,000, Saint-Cloud, 9-29, 2yo, 8fT, 1:41.35, sf. 1–ALCANTOR (FR), 126, c, 2, by New Bay (GB) 1st Dam: Bianca De Medici (GB), by Medicean (GB) 2nd Dam: Tremiere (Fr), by Anabaa 3rd Dam: Trevillari, by Riverman 1ST BLACK-TYPE WIN; 1ST GROUP WIN. (€180,000 Wlg '21 ARQDEC). O-Baron Edouard de Rothschild; B-SCEA du Grand Chene (FR); T-Andre Fabre; J-Mickael Barzalona. €40,000. Lifetime Record: 4-3-0-1, €77,100. *1/2 to Boscaccio (Ger) (Mount Nelson {GB}), GSW-Ger. Click for the free Equineline.com catalogue-style pedigree. 2–Saganti (Fr), 126, c, 2, Zarak (Fr)–Saghaniya (Fr), by Rock Of Gibraltar (Ire). 1ST BLACK TYPE; 1ST GROUP BLACK TYPE. O-H H The Aga Khan; B-H H The Aga Khan's Studs SC (FR); T-Mikel Delzangles. 3–Havana Cigar (GB), 126, c, 2, Havana Grey (GB)–Speculating (Ire), by Xtension (Ire). (21,000gns Wlg '21 TATFOA; 150,000gns Ylg '22 TATOCT). O-White Birch Farm; B-Josh Cameron (GB); T-Jean-Claude Rouget. €12,000. Margins: 2HF, SNK, NK. Odds: 1.50, 8.80, 3.20. Also Ran: Devil's Point (Ire), Warnie (Ire), Schutzenzauber (Ger), Bateau Blanc (GB). Video, sponsored by FanDuel TV. Very nice! Alcantor sweeps from last to first to land the Group 3 Prix Thomas Bryon at Saint-Cloud for @mickaelbarzalon and André Fabre A certain Continuous won this race in 2022… pic.twitter.com/gQVJjw6Yte — At The Races (@AtTheRaces) September 29, 2023 The post Easy For New Bay’s Alcantor In The Thomas Bryon appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Imperatriz ridden by Opie Bosson wins the Charter Keck Cramer Moir Stakes at Moonee Valley Racecourse on September 29, 2023 in Moonee Ponds, Australia. (Photo by Pat Scala/Racing Photos) The feature race of the night at Moonee Valley was the Group 1 Moir Stakes and the hot favourite Imperatriz -153.85 proved way too good for her rivals as she gave them a start and a beating over the 1000m scamper. Opie Bosson and Mark Walker continued on their merry way by winning another feature Group 1 at the Valley, with the duo picking up their third Group 1 success with the star mare in Melbourne. As expected, the sparks were flying early as Zoustyle +2200 and Acromantula +4000 went to the front and battled for the lead for most of the race, setting up the race perfectly for the backmarkers. When the field hit the home bend, Asfoora +700 took over and kicked clear by a length, but Imperatriz was looming large on the outside and when she let down, the favourite flew straight past her to record a dominant win. Although they weren’t able to go with the winner, Uncommon James +650 and The Inferno +7000 flew home to finish in third and fourth, respectively. 2023 Group 1 Moir Stakes Replay – Imperatriz | T: Mark Walker | J: Opie Bosson Mark Walker spoke post-race about the win of his star mare. “It was a great effort tonight,” Walker said. “She hits a little bit of a flat spot in her races, but she came back underneath Opie (Bosson) and at the top of the straight you could see what was gonna happen. “I knew there would be a lot of speed in the race and Opie (Bosson) doesn’t panic, so I wasn’t worried where she settled.” When Walker was asked about the potential slot in The Everest north of the border, he gave a straight forward answer to end all of the questioning around her. “The mare is so happy down here, so I don’t see any sense in putting her on a float. They are prestigious races and she’s loving it down here,” he said. Opie Bosson has now taken his career Group 1 victories to 92 after claiming the Moir Stakes on Imperatriz. “She just gives you an amazing feeling when she lets down,” Bosson said of Imperatriz. “I was a bit worried today, as she was a bit fresh and she tried to buck me off going down to the start. “She’s pretty easy. “All credit to the team at Te Akau and Mark Walker.” Imperatriz is the clear favourite at -142.86 in the futures market for the Manikato Stakes with most online bookmakers. More horse racing news View the full article

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has canceled Friday's live racing program at Aqueduct Racetrack due to significant rainfall forecast to create hazardous weather conditions in the New York metropolitan area, according to a press release issued Friday morning. With as much as five inches of rain expected, Ozone Park is under a flash flood warning and flood watch throughout the day on Friday. As a result, Friday's 11-race card has been canceled in the interest of the safety of all participants. Aqueduct Racetrack will remain open for simulcasting on Friday. NYRA has yet to determine a new schedule for Friday's featured GIII, $150,000 Noble Damsel and $125,000 Ashley T. Cole. Live racing at Aqueduct is scheduled to resume Saturday with an 11-race card featuring the GI $500,000 Joe Hirsch Turf Classic, the GII $400,000 Woodward, the GII $250,000 Gallant Bloom and the GII $250,000 Vosburgh, a “Win and You're In” for the GI Breeders' Cup Sprint. First post is 12:05 p.m. Eastern. The post Live Racing at Aqueduct Canceled Friday Due to Torrential Rain in New York appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Talented galloper Ranting was back in the winner’s circle at The Valley on Friday night as he landed the MSC Signs Handicap (1200m) after a daring ground-saving ride by Blake Shinn. Ranting was three pairs back on the rails throughout much of the contest and faced a wall of horses in front of him as the field neared the home turn. Shinn drove Ranting through a narrow gap, one off the fence in the run home and the six-year-old son of Zoustar did the rest as he sprinted hard to collar pacemaker Semillion and score going away by a neck. Shinn, who had earlier taken out the first race on the card with a swooping run out wide on Farhh Flung, was delighted to get the Nick Ryan-trained galloper home for the first time since May last year. “It was pretty exciting although the heart was in the mouth,” Shinn said. “I thought the pace might be frantic but they didn’t go as fast as everyone anticipated. “They bunched right up and I was relying on a lot of luck from the 600m onwards, but I had the horse to capitalise and it was one of those days where fortune went our way as the gap came and he was too good.” Ryan was quick to praise Shinn for his patience and undoubted skill to get his charge home after he had struggled to finish off his races on occasion in the past. “Twelve out of ten by Blake and very exciting to watch although it looked like it was going to be a train-wreck for a while,” Ryan said. “That’s why he is the best in the business as he just waited and didn’t force the issue and Ranting, who doesn’t really like hitting the front, didn’t know he had and he burst through for a great result. “The owners are on course and the team has done a good job, so we’re very happy.” Ryan has had the gelding in his care for three starts, with the galloper previously trained by Leon and Troy Corstens. “He’s Group performed and run in some big races and he might gain a lot of confidence from this,” he said. “We won’t raise the bar too high, but he was purchased from Inglis Digital for $70,000 and is now a city winner so the rest is a bonus from here.” Ranting is out of the More Than Ready mare Vanilla Ice Cream and was bred by Westbury Stud principal Gerry Harvey. He comes from an extended family that includes Gr.1 Blue Diamond Stakes (1200m) winner Danelagh, former Hong Kong Horse of the Year Vengeance Of Rain and Gr.1 AJC Oaks (2400m) winner Dizelle. A winner of the Gr.3 Blue Sapphire (1200m) as a three-year-old, where he defeated Gr.1 Blue Diamond Sakes (1200m) runner-up Hanseatic and Gr.3 San Domenico Stakes (1100m) winner Anders, he has now won three of his 26 starts and in excess of A$588,000 in prizemoney. View the full article

Amelia’s Jewel ridden by Damian Lane wins the Stocks Stakes at Moonee Valley. (Photo by George Sal/Racing Photos) The Group 1 Moir Stakes will headline the program at Moonee Valley, but seeing Amelia’s Jewel (-303.03) go around in the Group 2 Stocks Stakes was a very close second for all punters and spectators on track. The West Australian mare did not disappoint, as she proved a class above to take out the Stocks Stake in dominant fashion under a very kind ride from jockey Damian Lane. Many spectators, including Simon Miller, were surprised to see the daughter of Siyouni settle second behind a tearaway leader in Pride Of Jenni (+1500), but nothing was going to undo the eventual winner. Even though the leader tried to run all of her rivals off their legs, there was never any doubt around the race favourite and star mare Amelia’s Jewel, as she got off the leaders heels to idle straight past her and take over with 100m to go. Pride Of Jenni was able to hold on for second place, while Deny Knowledge (+900) ran home nicely into third place to fill the placings. Trainer of Amelia’s Jewel, Simon Miller spoke post-race about the win and a possible return to the scene of the crime to run in a Cox Plate later in the spring. “She just looked like she was doing it easy, didn’t she?” Miller said. “When she was outside the leader I thought ‘oh well, she’s never been here before’. “I didn’t give Frosty any instructions, I just said ‘you do you and I’ll do me’. “If she has run a track record, then clearly she can absorb pressure and Deano used to say to me that if there is pressure in the race then she runs better, and he’s right. “She’s not wound up yet and her coat is still improving, so we’ve still got heaps of wiggle room there, so she’s not screwed down yet.” When Miller was pressed about coming back to the Valley for a Cox Plate over 2040m, he simply replied with, “it’s on the cards, but Frosty will play a big part in that”. Damian Lane has joined Mark Zahra by winning the same race two years in a row, after he claimed the Stocks Stakes on Daises last year. “It wasn’t that easy, I had to ask her for a bit of an effort,” Lane said. “Pride Of Jenni made a real race of it and I’m glad I got her into a position early, because I don’t think I would have been able to pick her up late. “It’s hard to say, but I would be recommending to keep her down in Melbourne, but we will talk to Simon (Miller) and see what the ownership group thinks and go from there.” Amelia’s Jewel is now a +450 second favourite in the Cox Plate futures market with most online bookmakers. More horse racing news View the full article

Griff on the way to the barriers prior winning the Stutt Stakes at Moonee Valley. (Photo by George Sal/Racing Photos) Although he was unwanted late in the betting, Griff (+400) from the Ciaron Maher & David Eustace yard has claimed his second victory in as many starts, after taking out the Group 2 Stutt Stakes at Moonee Valley. The son of Trapeze Artist was very impressive last start in the Exford Plate at Flemington, where Mark Zahra gave him a great ride from midfield to run over the top of his rivals late; however, on Friday night, Zahra took his mount to the front and took luck out the equation from a wide barrier. After jumping sweetly, Zahra gave Griff a dig in the ribs and went to the front before settling outside the race leader in Limburg (+4000). Griff and Limburg ran the race to suit themselves by going at an even tempo, and as they rounded the home turn, Zahra went for his colt and he kicked clear to defeat the fast-finishing and heavily backed Verdad (+300) and Autumn Angel (+600), who filled the placings. 2023 Group 2 Stutt Stakes Replay – Griff | T: Ciaron Maher & David Eustace | J: Mark Zahra Representing the winning stable, David Eustace spoke post-race about the win of Griff. “He’s been running some good races up there (Sydney) and now he has got out to a trip, but it was a really smart ride by Mark (Zahra),” Eustace said. “We were keen to go forward, and he took the race by the scruff of its neck. “I thought the horse – considering he has only had 13 days since his Flemington win – it was a really good effort. “The plan was to go from the Exford Plate to here and then to the (Caulfield) Guineas, so we will talk to Shaun Griffiths and go from there.” As for the jockey Mark Zahra, he has now won the Stutt Stakes for the second year in a row after claiming the same race with Tijuana in 2022. “To the horses credit, he was able to spring out and he came back straight underneath me,” Zahra said of Griff’s quick start. “He obviously goes to the (Caulfield) Guineas from here, and he’s good, he has taken a sit and gone forward, so he is versatile which will take him a long way.” Griff is now an equal fourth favourite at +1000 in the Caulfield Guineas futures market with most online bookmakers. More horse racing news View the full article

Crocetti winning at Te Rapa on Friday. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) The excitement surrounding the looming meeting of top three-year-olds Tokyo Tycoon and Crocetti kicked up a gear following the latter’s comfortable victory at Te Rapa on Friday. The Danny Walker and Arron Tata-trained gelding jumped well for jockey Warren Kennedy before taking an early trail behind Tower Flypass and enjoyed cover in the blustery conditions. Down the straight, Kennedy went to take a gap on the rail at the 200m mark, which quickly closed, forcing Crocetti to lose momentum. However, it opened shortly after and the son of Zacinto was able to accelerate into it and score by 1.75 lengths over Group Two winner Impendabelle, with a further 1.25 lengths back to Group One performer To Catch A Thief in third. While owner-breeder Daniel Nakhle and punters, who backed Crocetti into favouritism, had their hearts in their mouths down the straight, co-trainer Danny Walker’s confidence never wavered. “His run was absolutely first class,” Walker said. “The fact that he took a sit and relaxed, which I knew he would always do, and he quickened up when he needed to and put them to bed, was fantastic. “I think that he could have pulled him sideways and got a run if he needed to (if the inside gap didn’t open), there was no need to panic. “You can’t have your own way all the time in racing, and it didn’t matter in the end. “They weren’t mugs but we are going to meet better horses as we go along.” With the victory, Crocetti took his record to four wins from four starts, including the Group 3 Northland Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) at Ruakaka last month. Punters are now anticipating a match-up between Crocetti and Tokyo Tycoon, who is a dominant favourite for tomorrow’s Group 2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m), with the pair to potentially meet at Te Rapa in the Group 2 James and Annie Sarten Memorial (1400m) on October 21. “It (Tokyo Tycoon and Crocetti match-up) is exciting and that is good for racing,” Walker said. “He (Crocetti) will run in the Sarten and then hopefully go to the (NZ 2000) Guineas (Group 1, 1600m). We will just take one race at a time, but that is the goal.” Tokyo Tycoon is a +140 favourite for the Group 1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas in futures markets with online bookmakers, with Crocetti the next fancied runner at +220. More horse racing news View the full article

Times Ticking will contest the Group 1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m) at Hastings on Saturday. Photo: Race Images South Overcoming a setback, Times Ticking is set for a belated entry into a top-flight contest at the Hawke’s Bay spring carnival. Trainer and part-owner Alby MacGregor had to alter his plans for the opening day of the meeting due to a foot issue with his pride and joy. Despite the hiccup, Times Ticking is in good shape for Saturday’s Group 1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m) at Hastings. MacGregor explained the change in plans, saying, “We were going to run him in the Tarzino Trophy (Group 1, 1400m), but he got a crook foot, so we had to flag that.” Times Ticking showcased promising form in lead-up trials, indicating readiness for his return to competition. “He’s just starting to lose his coat a bit now, and he’s looking good. It’s the old story, he’s very, very well at the moment, and if you’re not in, you’ll never know,” MacGregor added. Times Ticking had a successful autumn campaign, winning both the Group 3 Canterbury Gold Cup (2000m) and the Listed Easter Cup (1600m) at Riccarton. However, his winter preparation hit a roadblock at Wanganui when he finished last in the Listed AGC Training Stakes (1600m) after experiencing a heart fibrillation. MacGregor, despite this unusual setback, expressed confidence in Times Ticking’s recovery, stating, “He hasn’t showed any signs of ill effect at all.” The Tavistock son’s versatility is highlighted by his ability to perform well on both firm and heavy surfaces, having claimed victories in ten races under varying track conditions. With Lisa Allpress in the saddle for the Arrowfield Stud Plate, MacGregor is unfazed by the track conditions at Hastings, stating, “I’m not worried about it at all; he’ll be enjoying that track.” Looking ahead, MacGregor has aspirations to take Times Ticking back to Christchurch for the Group 3 Coupland’s Bakeries Mile (1600m). He emphasized the fluid nature of their plans, saying, “It’s a bit race by race at the moment, but I would dearly like to take him back south for a crack at that if he’s going well at the time.” Times Ticking has a positive history at Riccarton, winning three out of five appearances, and MacGregor often involves his family in the southern ventures, staying with son Dean at Rangiora and having grandson Matthew, an apprentice blacksmith, assisting with strapping duties. More horse racing news View the full article

Castle Star (Ire), one of the highest-rated sprinting sons of Starspangledbanner (Aus), will stand at Capital Stud in 2024. A smart sprinter for Fozzy Stack, Castle Star landed the G3 Marble Hill S. He also won the First Flier S. at the Curragh during an exciting juvenile campaign that saw him narrowly miss out on Group 1 honours when runner-up to Perfect Power (Ire) (Ardad {Ire}) in the Middle Park S. Castle Star will stand alongside Alkumait, Hunting Horn and Mirage Dancer at the County Kilkenny-based stud in Ireland. He was described by Stack as “straightforward with a great constitution” and Capital Stud's Ger O'Neill said he was delighted with the acquisition. “We're delighted to stand a horse of Castle Star's calibre,” O'Neill said. “Throughout his two-year-old career he displayed speed, soundness and courage while also having the good looks and pedigree to boot. “One of the most appealing aspects of standing him for us is access to the Danehill sire line which is becoming more and more difficult. “He is also from the family of our very own Alkumait. We look forward to supporting Castle Star with some of our best mares and welcoming breeders to Capital Stud to see him.” The post Classy Sprinter Castle Star Joins The Capital Stud Roster For 2024 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Jimmysstar winning on the opening day of the Hawke’s Bay Spring Carnival. Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North) Local trainer Guy Lowry showcased his prowess against the nation’s top stables on the opening day of the Hawke’s Bay Spring Carnival earlier this month, securing a win and two placings. However, he faces the upcoming challenge at Hastings this Saturday without the promising Jimmysstar, who impressed on Tarzino Trophy Day. Jimmysstar, a four-year-old Per Incanto gelding, clinched his second win in a three-start career on the first day of the carnival. Despite the success, Lowry revealed that the talented gelding is set to join Ciaron Maher and David Eustace across the Tasman. “It’s hard to get rid of a horse like him. But you can run for three times the money in the same grade over there, and the owners are keeping a share in him. I don’t blame them at all, and I hope he does a great job for them,” said Lowry, acknowledging the financial incentives for racing in Australia. Even without Jimmysstar, Lowry remains optimistic, saddling three runners on the middle day of the carnival. Among them is The Stoney One, a Pierro gelding with a promising record of two wins and seven placings in 11 starts. Despite a close second in his recent outing, The Stoney One is expected to be competitive, drawing well and targeting this specific race. Regarding track conditions, Lowry expressed confidence in The Stoney One’s adaptability, stating, “I don’t think he likes heavy ground, but I think he’ll cope with what it’s going to be like on Saturday.” Stablemate Gohugo, a maiden winner over the same course and distance in April, brings consistent form to the table. While initially targeting the first day of the meeting, he has performed well in subsequent races and is given another chance, dropping back in distance. Belcamina, a blue-blooded daughter of Savabeel and Group One performer Eleonora, is expected to show improvement in her upcoming race. Having won over 2000m in March, she struggled in her first two appearances of the current campaign but is anticipated to be more competitive on Saturday. “She’s nominated for the New Zealand Cup (Group 3, 3200m), and that’s a target I’m thinking of working towards with her,” shared Lowry, outlining future aspirations for the talented filly. More horse racing news View the full article

Bezique will contest the Rangiora New World Guineas Trial (1400m) at Riccarton on Saturday. Photo: Race Images In anticipation of Saturday’s Riccarton meeting, the training duo of Kenny Rae and Krystal Williams, based at their new Burnham stable, are set to unveil a formidable lineup of young talents. Eight horses will represent their stable. “We have a heap of good young stock at the moment. We’re looking forward to stepping them out on Saturday,” said Krystal Williams. Among their notable entries are Bezique and Illicit Dreams in the Rangiora New World Guineas Trial (1400m). While Bezique, a Ace High gelding, is confirmed to run, Illicit Dreams’ participation is contingent on the track conditions. “With Illicit Dreams, starting her will depend on how much more rain we get. It was pretty wet last night but the sun’s out now so hopefully that will help the track,” explained Williams. Discussing Bezique’s adjustment to racing left-handed, Williams expressed confidence. “He’s pretty hard just going about his work. He’s really bright, and he’ll be a good chance.” Illicit Dreams, despite grappling with oral issues, has shown improvement in form. “She’s had a few problems with her teeth, and we’ve taken care to get on top of that. Since we’ve been on top of that, her form has really improved.” Looking ahead to the Group 1 NZ 1000 Guineas (1600m), whether Illicit Dreams races this weekend or not, her lead-up will include the Group 3 Barneswood Farm Stakes at Ashburton on October 14. The stable also presents two-year-olds in the Nobby Bussell Memorial (800m), featuring Redemption, Collective Hearts, Super Rosa, and Porthouse Lady. “They’re hard to assess, but I’d say Super Rosa and Collective Hearts look the best of the four. They are two really mature fillies,” said Williams. Dancing Dream, a Contributer filly, drops back to maiden company, aiming for a confidence boost. “She’s not very big, but she’s tough, and we’ll try and get her a confidence boost on Saturday,” Williams explained. In the Coupland’s Bakeries Mile Trial (1400m), Reliable Man seven-year-old The Buffer, with stable apprentice Danika Wilson claiming a 4kg allowance, seeks a better result. Williams expressed hope, stating, “He steps up to 1400m, and the track should suit him a lot better, so we’re hopeful of a better result.” More horse racing news View the full article

Stoltz is bidding for a hat-trick of wins. Chasing successive wins in the early-season feature, six-time champion jockey Zac Purton believes Stoltz has the quality to successfully contend in the Group 3 National Day Cup Handicap (1000m) at Sha Tin on Sunday. To face six rivals, including dual Group 1 place-getter Sight Success (135lb) and last start winner Kurpany (119lb), Stoltz (124lb) will bid to post a third consecutive win after closing last season with 1000m victories at Sha Tin and Happy Valley. “He feels really good, he’s moving well, he’s going good. He’s nice and bright so I’m hoping for a forward run,” Purton said. “There’s nothing outstanding in the race. We know all of the horses pretty well. Stoltz races well fresh. He’s won at the track and distance, which always helps. “One of his attributes is that he gets out, rolls along and likes it when the speed is on during the running of a race. Up the straight, the pressure is on all the way and he can absorb that, handle that and I think he’s in nice shape – it’s a question of whether he’s up to this class, but we’re going to find out.” Having annexed virtually every major Hong Kong contest, Purton’s career haul of 1,618 wins also features a score in the Group 3 National Day Cup Handicap after victory last season on David Hayes-trained Super Wealthy. Chris So hopes Super Sunny Sing can accelerate his progress towards loftier targets when last season’s Hong Kong Classic Cup winner contests the Class 2 Beijing Handicap (1600m). “His last run (when third on 10 September) was really good,” So said. “We gave him a break after the (BMW) Hong Kong Derby last season because it was the right time to give him a break because he had eight starts for four wins for the season and he did a great job. “His first run back was a bit short for him over 1400m and he finished strongly. This time, he’s over 1600m and it should be better. The plan was to give him a break, bring him back and put him in a major race this season. So far, he’s a good horse in my stable and I hope he can keep going.” Andrea Atzeni is optimistic Beauty Crescent can provide him with his first win for Tony Cruz when the pair contests the Class 3 Shanghai Handicap (1400m). “He’s very lightly-raced and his last run (when third behind Supreme Lucky on 10 September) was only his third run in Hong Kong. That was a very promising run and he’s an improving horse. On the back of his last run, you would think he would be competitive,” the Italian said. “That last race would have brought him on plenty and hopefully on Sunday he’ll be very competitive.” More horse racing news View the full article

What Sha Tin Races Where Sha Tin Racecourse – Tai Po Rd, Sha Tin District, Hong Kong When Sunday, September 1, 2023 First Race 1pm HKT (4pm AEDT) Visit Dabble We kick-off the new month of racing in Hong Kong, as Sha Tin Racecourse is set to host a massive 10-race program. The Group 3 National Day Cup (1000m) is the feature event, with a field of seven tackling the Sha Tin straight course. The rail is in the C+3 position for the meeting, and with much-improved weather predicted surrounding the track, we should be racing on a genuine Good 4 surface. The first race is scheduled to get underway at 1pm HKT (4pm AEDT). National Day Cup Tip: Whizz Kid Whizz Kid goes on top in what looks a tricky edition of the National Day Cup (1000m) to dissect. He returned to this course and distance on September 17, being narrowly defeated by Kurpany, and found himself in the unfamiliar chasing role. He wasn’t unsuited to it, however, powering into a clear second-place finish. He’ll be fitter for that effort, and with 52kgs on his back, we think Whizz Kid can pickup his first win since November of 2022. National Day Cup Race 8 – #6 Whizz Kid (6) 5yo Gelding | T: Tony Cruz | J: Andrea Atzeni (52kg) Bet with Bet365 Best Bet at Sha Tin: Super Sunny Sing Super Sunny Sing was sensational when resuming at Sha Tin on September 10 over the 1400m; and did more than enough to signal he’s worth following second-up. The son of Nicconi closed off gamely from the back-half of the field and will only appreciate getting to the 1600m on Sunday. The last time Super Sunny Sing got to the mile, it was a demolition job in Class 3 company, and despite this being Class 2, we think he can produce a new peak performance. Best Bet Race 7 – #1 Super Sunny Sing (5) 5yo Gelding | T: Chris So | J: Vincent Ho (60kg) Bet with Dabble Next Best at Sha Tin: Ruby Sailing Ruby Sailing is testing the patience of followers with three-straight second place finishes to his name. His latest came down the Sha Tin straight course on September 10 when beaten a nose by Champion Method, who fought off the canvas to steal victory. Ruby Sailing looked to be wayward when hitting the lead along way out, and it may have been the undoing of the three-year-old gelding. We get the key booking of Zac Purton to keep his mind on the job, and this seems like the perfect opportunity for Ruby Sailing to break his maiden status. Next Best Race 2 – #3 Ruby Sailing (13) 3yo Gelding | T: Manfred Man | J: Zac Purton (59kg) Bet with Betfair Best Value at Sha Tin: Ka Ying Cheer Ka Ying Cheer comes from the Pierre Ng barn and will make his Hong Kong racing debut on Sunday afternoon. The son of Reward For Effort has had three winning barrier trials on the all-weather surface leading into race-day, beating home some impressive types in the process. Jump-outs don’t always translate to race-day success; however, he’ll give himself every chance with a favourable racing pattern. Keith Yeung will be looking to lead from barrier eight, and if Ka Ying Cheer can pinch a break, he should give a bold sight at a nice price with online bookmakers. Best Value Race 4 – #7 Ka Ying Cheer (2) 4yo Gelding | T: Pierre Ng | J: Keith Yeung (57.5kg) Bet with Picklebet Sunday HK quaddie tips for Sha Tin races Sha Tin quadrella selections Sunday, October 1, 2023 1-8 1-2-6 1-2-3-4-6-7-9-12 1-2-3-4-6-7-8 Investment: $336 for 100% More horse racing tips View the full article

What Alice Springs Races Where Alice Springs – Pioneer Park South, Stuart Hwy, Connellan NT 0870 When Sunday, October 1, 2023 First Race 1:20pm ACST Visit Dabble The Red Centre takes centre stage in the NT this weekend with the Alice Springs Turf Club hosting a five-race meeting at Pioneer Park with the 46 horses accepting. It should be an interesting meeting with numerous chances in every race, which will definitely make it tough going for punters. The feature race is a Benchmark 76 over 1100m worth $22,500 and although it’s a small field good luck splitting Supreme Times, Great Buy, Irememberwhen and Rock Of Kryptonite. Hot conditions have been forecast for Sunday and although it’s expected to become cloudy hot winds from the north-west will see the mercury climb to 37C. It hasn’t rained in Central Australia since July 31 when 0.2mm was recorded. The rail will be in the true position and as usual Pioneer Park will be a good dirt surface. Best Bet: Drawn To Win Has yet to win a race after 11 starts, but in fairness was desperately unlucky to go down last Sunday when pipped on the post in a 1000m maiden. The five-year-old gelding jumped well as the $2.60 favourite with horse betting sites and was in terrific shape after establishing a healthy lead exiting back straight. In the end, the son of Sepoy just couldn’t hang on after spotting the fast-finishing Big Feelings three kilograms. Drawn To Win, who carries an extra 2kg this weekend and jumps from a wider gate, was the early $3 favourite during the week and with a bit more luck can cap off his 10th start in the Red Centre with a win. Two seconds, two third and two fourths is a sign that the former NSW galloper isn’t that far away. Best Bet Race 3 – #2 Drawn To Win (9) 5yo Gelding | T: Lisa Whittle | J: Alice Lindsay (59kg) Bet with Betfair Next Best: Sienna’s Choice The six-year-old mare has had 14 starts at Pioneer Park after debuting in February and has yet to taste victory, but showed signs last Sunday that she could be in the mix this weekend. Well adrift in sixth place at the 600m, the daughter of Love Conquers All motored home to finish 2.5 lengths adrift of the winner Quick Return in third place over 1400m (BM54). The fact that Sienna’s Choice is backing up over 1600m carrying less weight and has once again drawn a decent gate explains why she was the early $2 favourite with Ladbrokes. Three thirds is the mare’s best return in the Red Centre after five wins from 1350-1680m in Queensland, which included two wins at Doomben and victory at Eagle Farm. Next Best Race 5 – #6 Sienna’s Choice (3) 6yo Mare | T: Will Savage | J: Stan Tsaikos (56.5kg) Bet with Picklebet Best Value: Lastar It’s definitely the most competitive race of the day, but Lastar has been racing well of late and the fact that he was quoted at $11 during the week was hard to ignore. The five-year-old gelding is likely to start at a shorter price come Sunday, which will come as no surprise after two wins, a second and a last start third over 1100m (0-64) in Central Australia on September 10. The son of Zoustar had a win and a third from four Alice Springs starts for former trainer Nicole Irwin from SA in April before two disappointing efforts in Darwin in June and July. Lastar has found his mojo since returning to the Red Centre with his two wins having been achieved over 1200m at BM54 and BM66 level during August. Best Value Race 2 – #6 Lastar (6) 6yo Mare | T: Lisa Whittle | J: Alice Lindsay (59.5kg) Bet with Dabble Sunday quaddie tips for Alice Springs races Alice Springs quadrella selections Sunday, October 1, 2023 1-2-6-8 1-2-3 1-3-4 4-6 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article

Local trainer Guy Lowry held his own against the country’s biggest stables on the opening day of the Hawke’s Bay Spring Carnival earlier this month, and he is hoping for more of the same at Hastings on Saturday, but he will have to do it without the exciting up-and-comer Jimmysstar. Lowry came away with a win and two placings from Tarzino Trophy Day on September 9, with Jimmysstar winning the $65,000 Remember ‘Jooky’ Premier (1300m) while The Stoney One and Gohugo were second placegetters in Rating 75 and Rating 65 grade respectively. Jimmysstar’s impressive performance earned him the second win of a three-start career, having previously finished second on debut last December before winning at Wanganui in April. Lowry predicts a bright future for the four-year-old Per Incanto gelding, but that future now lies on the other side of the Tasman. “It was a good win on the first day and he came through it really well,” Lowry said. “But he’s on a plane over the weekend and will be joining Ciaron Maher and David Eustace. “I think he’s a pretty exciting horse. It’s hard to get rid of a horse like him. But you can run for three times the money in the same grade over there, and the owners are keeping a share in him. I don’t blame them at all and I hope he does a great job for them.” Lowry will still saddle three runners on the middle day of the carnival this weekend, including the promising The Stoney One in the NZB Ready To Run Sale Trainers’ Series Premier (1200m). The Pierro gelding has had 11 starts for two wins and seven placings, and he overcame a tough wide run for a close second behind Fashion Shoot over the same course and distance three weeks ago. “It was a good run that day and I’ve been happy with him since then,” Lowry said. “I think he’ll be competitive. He’s drawn well. This is the race that I’ve been targeting for him.” Lowry believes The Stoney One will be untroubled by underfoot conditions at Hastings. The track was rated Heavy10 on Thursday morning, but Lowry expects improved footing by the time Saturday’s meeting gets underway. “I don’t think he likes heavy ground, but I think he’ll cope with what it’s going to be like on Saturday,” Lowry said. “The wind is getting up here now and it’ll be drying. I wouldn’t be surprised to see it come back to a 7.” Stablemate Gohugo brings consistent form into the Colliers Commerical HB Premier (1400m). A maiden winner over this course and distance in April, he has placed in all of his four starts since. He was runner-up behind Dimaggio in a 1600m Rating 65 on the first day of the meeting. “He’s racing pretty well,” Lowry said. “The first day was probably the one I was really targeting with him, but he’s been doing well since that race and has to be given another chance. Dropping back in distance isn’t a problem for him.” Belcamina could be the big improver of the Lowry team when she lines up in the Villa Maria Premier (2100m). A blue-blooded daughter of Savabeel and the Group One performer Eleonora, she was a winner over 2000m in March. Her first two appearances of her latest campaign have seen her finish seventh over 1300m and ninth over 1600m. “She’s been looking for a bit more ground,” Lowry said. “I think she’s going in the right direction, and she should be more competitive on Saturday than she was in those first two races. “She’s nominated for the New Zealand Cup (Gr.3, 3200m), and that’s a target I’m thinking of working towards with her.” View the full article

The excitement surrounding the looming meeting of top three-year-olds Tokyo Tycoon (NZ) (Satono Aladdin) and Crocetti (NZ) (Zacinto) kicked up a gear following the latter’s comfortable victory in the St John’s College Foundation 3YO (1200m) at Te Rapa on Friday. The Danny Walker and Arron Tata-trained gelding jumped well for jockey Warren Kennedy before taking an early trail behind Tower Flypass (NZ) (US Navy Flag) and enjoyed cover in the blustery conditions. Down the straight, Kennedy went to take a gap on the rail at the 200m mark, which quickly closed, forcing Crocetti to lose momentum. However, it opened shortly after and the son of Zacinto was able to accelerate into it and score by 1-3/4 lengths over Group Two winner Impendabelle (Impending), with a further 1-1/4 lengths back to Group One performer To Catch A Thief (US Navy Flag) in third. While owner-breeder Daniel Nakhle and punters, who backed Crocetti into $1.20 favouritism, had their hearts in their mouths down the straight, co-trainer Danny Walker’s confidence never wavered. “His run was absolutely first class,” Walker said. “The fact that he took a sit and relaxed, which I knew he would always do, and he quickened up when he needed to and put them to bed, was fantastic. “I think that he could have pulled him sideways and got a run if he needed to (if the inside gap didn’t open), there was no need to panic. “You can’t have your own way all the time in racing, and it didn’t matter in the end. “They weren’t mugs but we are going to meet better horses as we go along.” With the victory, Crocetti took his record to four wins from four starts, including the Gr.3 Northland Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) at Ruakaka last month. Punters are now anticipating a match-up between Crocetti and Tokyo Tycoon, who is a dominant favourite for tomorrow’s Gr.2 Animal Health Direct Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m), with the pair to potentially meet at Te Rapa in the Gr.2 James and Annie Sarten Memorial (1400m) on October 21. “It (Tokyo Tycoon and Crocetti match-up) is exciting and that is good for racing,” Walker said. “He (Crocetti) will run in the Sarten and then hopefully go to the (NZ 2000) Guineas (Gr.1, 1600m). We will just take one race at a time, but that is the goal.” Tokyo Tycoon is a $2.40 favourite for the Al Basti Equiworld Dubai-sponsored 2000 Guineas in the TAB’s Futures Market, with Crocetti the next fancied runner at $3.20. View the full article

After decades of dominating the New Zealand harness racing scene, trotting icon Mark Purdon is finding himself in unfamiliar territory as he prepares to line-up his first thoroughbred at Riccarton on Saturday – nervous. The Purdon surname is synonymous with harness racing, with family patriarch Roy Purdon winning three New Zealand Trainers’ Premierships before being joined in partnership by son Barry in 1978, with the pair going on to win the next 17 of 18 premierships, and Barry going on to win a further two titles on his own account. Mark Purdon showed his talents in the sulky as a top driver before following his father and brother into training in the late nineties, and scored his first premiership crown at the turn of the century. Since then, his All Stars Racing operation has become the most revered training establishment in Australasia, winning 14 New Zealand Trainers’ Premierships and nearly every major harness race on either side of the Tasman. Now in training partnership with his son Nathan, Purdon felt it was time to scratch an itch he has had for some time – train a team of thoroughbreds. “I have been wanting to have a go for a number of years, but I have just never had the time. I thought if I don’t do it now, I’ll never do it,” Purdon said. “I am in the twilight stage of my harness career and this would be a lovely way to finish off.” Intent on following his new passion, Purdon went to New Zealand Bloodstock’s National Yearling Sale at Karaka in January where he purchased three yearlings, including lot 427, a Savabeel colt out of Pink Graffiti, a half-sister to Group One winners Glamour Puss and Vision And Power. “He looked like a Bettor’s Delight (Champion Pacing Sire) to me, that was my first impression,” Purdon said. “He is by Savabeel, who I really like. I went to the sales and thought it would be lovely to bring a Savabeel home. Of the ones I looked at, I liked him the most. “I did a short list, went around them all and narrowed it right down to about eight horses. I then took Barry around with me and he liked this guy too and we ended up getting him, so we were delighted.” Purdon went to $200,000 to secure his pick of the sale, out of Waikato Stud’s draft, and was delighted to welcome his siblings Barry, Owen and Suzanne into the ownership, aptly naming the colt after their late father – Captain Roy. “When we bought him, Barry said he liked him and would take a quarter and said that he spoke to Owen on the way in and said he might like to take a quarter, so I thought we better offer Suzanne a quarter as well, we can race him as a family and name him after Dad. It was all done and dusted after the hammer went down,” Purdon said. Purdon has been delighted with the progress of the colt and he is excited to kick-off both the colt’s racing career and his thoroughbred training career in the Nobby Bussell Memorial Two-Year-Old (800m) at Riccarton on Saturday. “It’s very exciting and I am very nervous,” Purdon said. “I don’t know the opposition, but he is well and goes into the race in good shape. It’s just the unknown a little bit.” With New Zealand Trotting Cup Week fast approaching, Purdon is being kept busy with his harness team and has welcomed the addition of All Stars Racing’s thoroughbred arm to add some variety to his day. “This time of the year is quite busy,” he said. “I have had four (thoroughbreds) in work and two of them are going out for a spell, so it will be a nice balance now. I will be able to look after these two well and focus on the standardbred side of things as well. “It has all worked out really well, they have all been good to work with – I have enjoyed it.” While enjoying training his thoroughbred team, Purdon’s competitive nature, which has seen him dominate one code of racing, has him striving to reach excellence once more in another. “Getting into it (thoroughbreds), I thought ‘wouldn’t it be wonderful to win a Group One thoroughbred race’, so that is the aim,” he said. View the full article

Antino (NZ) (Redwood) will have his second Melbourne run when he heads to Sandown on Sunday. Brisbane trainer Tony Gollan is looking forward to a change of fortune at the second outing of Antino in Melbourne. Antino heads to the Gr.3 Sandown Stakes (1500m) at Sandown on Sunday after a luckless fourth at Flemington on September 16 at his Melbourne debut. A winner of eight of his previous nine starts in Queensland, Antino was blocked for a run in the straight before flashing home late to run fourth, beaten just over a half-length. It was the first time in those nine starts that Antino had finished out of the placings. Gollan said that despite Antino’s defeat, the gelding had taken a lot of improvement from the run and was looking forward to seeing the gelding on the big Sandown track with its long run home. “He’s a lot better horse going into this second-up run than what he was first-up,” Gollan told RSN. “It was his first time out of his comfort zone away from home and it was a lot for him to take in. “His coat has really cleaned up now and he’s looking really well. “He’s done some nice work at Flemington and I’m certainly looking forward to seeing him stepping out on Sunday.” Blake Shinn takes over on Sunday replacing James Orman who had ridden the gelding in all of his previous 10 starts. Gollan is not shying away from plans to run Antino in the Gr.1 Toorak Handicap (1600m) at Caulfield on October 14. But as Gollan knows, plans in racing can change quickly. “Something right out of left field would have to happen to change my plan,” Gollan said. “I’m really happy with his preparation, even though he was defeated first-up, he was still very good. “We have seen back home in Brisbane, as he builds into his preparation, that’s when he gets right up to the mark, and he is quite impressive. “We haven’t seen him up to that mark yet in Melbourne. “If he can improve off the outing on Sunday, then he should be in really good shape come the Toorak.” View the full article

The flying favourite Tiz Invincible looks very hard to beat with the classy filly out to extend her winning streak to four-straight in Saturday’s Flight Stakes 2023 on Epsom Handicap Day. Tiz Invincible is a hard to beat favourite looking to finish the Princess Series off with a 2023 Flight Stakes win on Saturday. Photo: Steve Hart. One of three elite levels on the Randwick race card this weekend the Group 1 $750,000 Flight Stakes (1600m) features a quality field of promising three-year-old fillies. Flight Stakes betting at Ladbrokes has the in-form Ciaron Maher & David Eustace-trained Tiz Invincible on top at $2.50 despite the daughter of I Am Invincible drawing the outside alley. She comes in from barrier 13 to 12 with the scratching of Autumn Angel (2) who instead takes on the boys under the lights at Moonee Valley on Friday night in the Group 2 Stutt Stakes (1600m). Apprentice Zac Lloyd is riding in terrific fashion this season and continues associations with Tiz Invincible as the pressure gets turned up with a Group 1 ride on the weekend. The filly has been flawless this prep enjoying a win fresh in the Listed The Rosebud before completing the Group 2 Furious Stakes – Tea Rose Stakes double. The Tea Rose has been the superior form line for the Flight Stakes over the past decade or so and that is expected to play out again in the final leg of the Princess Series this spring. Three of her rivals are also at single-figure Flight Stakes odds at time of publish including the $5.50 second elect Kimochi who continues rivalries after back-to-back seconds behind Tiz Invincible. Gary Portelli’s perennial place-getter jumps from gate seven now with Jason Collett sticking with the daughter of Brave Smash. She has run in the opening three legs of the series with a Silver Shadow third first-up before finishing runner-up in the Furious and Tea Rose. The step-up to 1600m looks to suit and she is not without support to turn the tables here. The third elect is the Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman-trained Flight Stakes market mover Mollynickers backed in from $9 to $7 to frank the Victorian form lines in Sydney on Saturday. Jamie Kah partners the rails-drawn daughter of Pierro who kicked off her three-year-old campaign at Moonee Valley on September 9 with a close fourth to Charm Stone only 1.45 lengths beaten in the Listed Atlantic Jewel Stakes (1200m). She takes a notable step-up in both class and distance here for her Group race debut and first Sydney assignment with plenty of pressure going up to a mile off a six-furlong run. Tropical Squall rounds out the hopes under $10 for the win with the Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott-trained Prized Icon filly. Co-trainer Waterhouse boasts an incredible Flight Stakes record having prepared 10 previous winners the latest of which was Never Been Kissed in 2021. Tropical Squall enjoyed a successful debut at Canterbury back in June and won again on the Kensington track fresh by a big margin over 1400m. Her perfect career start came to an end in the Tea Rose however when she ran two lengths back third from a wide gate, but she gets a chance to atone now with the experience of that run to bring her on. Waterhouse & Bott also saddle-up Exceed And Excel filly Summer Loving at a more generous quote of $27 on the last start Tea Rose Stakes fifth place-getter. The 2023 Darley Flight Stakes is set to run as Randwick Race 6 at 2:50pm (AEST) on the bumper 10-race Sydney card for Saturday. 2023 Flight Stakes Field & Barriers No Last 10 Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight Probable Weight Penalty Hcp Rating 1 42×111 TIZ INVINCIBLE Ciaron Maher & David Eustace Zac Lloyd (a) 13 56kg 92 2 2x13x322 KIMOCHI Gary Portelli Jason Collett 8 56kg 84 3 1×13 TROPICAL SQUALL Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Adam Hyeronimus 6 56kg 80 4 14x1844x20 MISS JOELENE Kelly Schweida Ryan Maloney 7 56kg 78 5 2×1914 FRENCH ENDEAVOUR Matthew Smith Dylan Gibbons (a) 4 56kg 74 6 3330×2645 SUMMER LOVING Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Ms Rachel King 11 56kg 7 2×114 MOLLYNICKERS Peter G Moody & Katherine Coleman Ms Jamie Kah 1 56kg 71 8 187×160 CAPTAIN AMELIA John O’Shea Blake Shinn 10 56kg 70 9 242806 PRIVATE LEGACY Gregory Hickman Tyler Schiller 5 56kg 10 221×67 TUTTA LA VITA Chris Waller Joao Moreira 3 56kg 69 11 2×13 AUTUMN ANGEL Peter G Moody & Katherine Coleman Billy Egan 2 56kg 65 12 2×20 UNIQUE AMBITION (NZ) John Sargent James McDonald 12 56kg 13 5×04 HASTY HONEY Brad Widdup Craig Williams 9 56kg Table Credit: Racing Australia. The post Flight Stakes 2023 Field & Odds Update: Favourite Tiz Invincible To Beat appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

The Valley comes to light on Friday night as Group 1 racing this Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival continues in the form of the $750,000 Moir Stakes (1000m). Imperatriz is clear favourite in 2023 AJ Moir Stakes betting for the Group 1 highlight on The Valley’s twilight card this Friday. Photo: Ultimate Racing Photos. There is a diminutive eight-horse field gathered in the twilight feature with red hot favourite Imperatriz scaring away plenty of potential rivals. Mark Walker’s New Zealand-trained mare is unbeaten at the notoriously tight Moonee Valley circuit and chases her third straight win at the track. The multiple Group 1 winner enjoyed an elite level success down under in the autumn’s William Reid Stakes over the six furlongs here before impressing with a first-up Group 2 McEwen Stakes (1000m) victory. She dominated the McEwen Stakes defeating Rothfire and last year’s The Everest hero Giga Kick by a minimum 2.5 lengths in a new race record time of 56.68 seconds. That was scintillating return that the five-year-old daughter of I Am Invincible is tipped to emulate back up in grade but against similar competitors in the Moir. Current Moir Stakes odds online at Ladbrokes have the classy mare at a short but deserving quote of $1.70. Imperatriz reunites with Kiwi hoop Opie Bosson in gate five and is very hard to tip against. Punters looking for value on the second line of Moir Stakes betting find the market mover Uncommon James who has been well-backed in from $6 to $4.60 for the upset. The Steven O’Dea & Matthew Hoysted-trained Queenslander jumps from gate seven with Damian Lane aboard for the horse’s first run of the spring. The consistent son of Cable Bay has won six from ten to date including February’s Group 1 Oakleigh Plate (1100m) at Sandown. A second in Rosehill’s The Galaxy followed with the gun sprinter looking to atone for his last start eighth behind The Everest contender Overpass in Perth’s inaugural $4 million The Quokka (1200m) at Ascot back in mid-April. He has been brought on fitness-wise with a Doomben trial back in August and is a noted fresh performer with support for his Moonee Valley debut. The third elect at $6.50 drawn the rails is fellow Queenslander Rothfire for Robert Heathcote. The now six-year-old son of Rothesay has previous winning form at Moonee Valley and is out to turn the tables on Imperatriz after his McEwen second. He boasts a 50% winning strike-rate second-up with four wins from eight second-up starts and Blake Shinn continues associations. Rothfire does not know how to run a bad race and was strong last prep with back-to-back Group 1 placings in Brisbane behind Think About It in the Kingsford Smith Cup (3rd) and Stradbroke (2nd). The last of the single-figure fancies in the markets taking on the odds-on elect is the Henry Dwyer-trained Asfoora in gate six with Mitchell Aitken in the saddle. The talented Flying Artie mare is easing in the markets despite coming off a first-up victory in the Group 3 The Heath 1100 at Caulfield. Asfoora brings in strong form lines from the autumn with eye-catching runs in the Oakleigh (3rd), Galaxy (4th) and Quokka (4th). She is also a genuine short-distance specialist over the 1000m (4:3-0-0) and looks a nice value shot. The 2023 AJ Moir Stakes is set to run as Moonee Valley Race 7 at 9:15pm (AEST) as the penultimate event on The Valley’s Friday night card. 2023 Moir Stakes Field & Barriers No Last 10 Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight Probable Weight Penalty Hcp Rating 1 285x2132x2 ROTHFIRE Robert Heathcote Blake Shinn 1 58.5kg 111 2 x400x9275x THE INFERNO Cliff Brown Jake Noonan 8 58.5kg 101 3 x111x2128x UNCOMMON JAMES Steven O’Dea & Matthew Hoysted Damian Lane 7 58.5kg 109 4 2332x506x4 ZOUSTYLE Tony Gollan Damien Oliver 3 58.5kg 103 5 2436x885x4 GENERATION Ciaron Maher & David Eustace Mark Zahra 2 58.5kg 99 6 452213×315 ACROMANTULA Daniel & Ben Pearce Craig Williams 4 58.5kg 99 7 48x11121x1 IMPERATRIZ Mark Walker Opie Bosson 5 56.5kg 116 8 1711x344x1 ASFOORA Henry Dwyer Mitchell Aitken 6 56.5kg 106 Table Credit: Racing Australia. The post Moir Stakes 2023 Field & Odds Update appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

Now that many of the very best horses are coming out to play we are regularly updating what’s happening at the trials right around the country. Here’s the latest installment. The Addington Trials Wed 27th September Weather Raining and cold and windy / Track Easy Patani (2c Father Patrick – Sagan) The Hope trained 2yo trotter trailed before improving to lead 1000m out, extended nicely last 300m and in the end 4 1/2L clear of rivals. MR:2:07.9, 800m in 61.9, 400m in 29.1. Only the two race day starts so far but did win on debut back in May then struck Wilma’s Boy when a resuming sixth, some 11L from winner. Should be further improved next up and from a stable that does well when placing its trotters. Ohara (3f Always B Miki – Paula’s On Fire ) The Howe trained filly trailed before popping out at the 400m to challenge in her qualifying heat run in trying conditions, too good for her two rivals in the straight, winning by 4L, MR:2:03.9, 800m in 62.5, 400m in 30.6. This filly comes from the immediate family of Hot N Treacherous and The Orange Agent so has a few things going for a potential race career. A Fine Patrick (2g Father Patrick – Harriet Of Mot) The Edmonds trained 2yo again showed why he is so highly regarded by his connections while the time did not set any records. Driver John Dunn bided his time back in the field before launching wide out on final bend, picked up his rivals with ease over the final stages without being extended. MR:2:14.4, 800m in 63.2, 400m in 30.6 Conditions again were not condusive to quick times but he will be at cramped odds when he makes his debut this season The Quiet Pirate (2g Captaintreacherous – Silence Is Golden) The Purdon trained 2yo broke briefly when crossing to lead just after the start but came down pacing in the hands of Mark Purdon and kept going to be way too good for his rivals MR:2:05.5, 800m in 60.4, 400m in 28.7. He was a $60k purchase at the 2022 Auckland Yearling Sales and is from the Auckland Reactor family that Purdon has had considerable success with in the past …. there must be a story behind that name ! We Walk By Faith (2g Bettor’s Delight – Wicked Nights) Another Purdon trained 2yo with plenty of breeding. He trailed mostly then used the passing lane to win in good style MR:2:03.6, 800m in 60.4, 400m in 28.7 Qualified back in June, owned by the Dunfords who have had much success with their ‘faith’ horses. Zara Tindall (3f Vincent – Royal Impression) The Robbie Holmes trained filly boomed off the gate, steadied midrace before coming home sharply, 400m in 27.8 (on an ‘off’ track) to win well She has placed four times already in just eight raceday starts including a meritorious second to the capable Treacherous Miss back in June, freshened, she should be one to follow in races restricted to Non Winners F&M. Kawhi (3g Andover Hall – Miss Lovalot) The Tom Bagrie trained runner is a full brother to the well performed Harold Smith (6 wins) and after 400m led for driver John Dunn, cleared out from the 400m and officially 8L clear of his rivals at the line. MR:2:04.9, 800m in 59.3, 400m in 29.0 Already the winner of one from 12 raceday starts and good enough to place twice as a 2yo, has not raced since May, but good enough to build upon his record at short notice. Millwood Nike (3f Captaintreacherous – Alburquerque) The star Purdon trained filly (14 starts for 14 wins) took time honours on what was quite a miserable day. She settled 4th of seven in indian file, received a nice 1×1 cart into race by a game Sweet Diamond at the 400m, not pushed to get over the top of her rivals, MR:1:59.7, 800m in 57.2, 400m in 27.2. With a number of her 3yo rivals hardened by recent racing and with the filly specials looming, one imagines that this hit out was much needed and her trainers would have been smiling post race. Her unbeaten stablemate Vessem (5 starts for 5 wins) set the pace and fought strongly when challenged to just hold second from the above mentioned Sweet Diamond and Celtic Spirit (trail) close up Piccadilly Pete (2g Sweet Lou – Piccadilly Princess) The Purvis trained 2yo is yet to qualify but proved too good for his six rivals, winning by a comfortable margin in the hands of his trainer, MR:2:08.7, 800m in 58.9, 400m in 27.8. His dam, of course, won 17 races and some $760k for the same connections and he is the first live foal from the mare. Needless to say, he looks to have inherited a fair amount of the family ability. Ashburton trials Tuesday 26th September Weather Fine Track Fast She’s Tough (6m He’s Watching – Cullen’s Mercy) The Mowbray trained mare started off 20m behind but soon trailed third of five in indian file, out to attack 400m out and kept up strong run to come away from rivals final stages MR:2:06.3, 800m in 56.8, 400m in 26.7 While a natural fast track in good fine conditions, the seven win mare put plenty of dash into her work in the hands of Matty Williamson Lime In A Bottle (2f Imperial Count – Gina) The Williamson trained 2yo raced third of four before being set alight by her trainer inside the final 600m, led around final corner, cleared out by 6L at the line MR:2:12.2, 800m in 58.7, 400m in 28.6 She qualified in early May but has yet to make her raceday debut. She is a half to some handy types including Time In A Bottle (9w and $101k) The Vixen (3f Always B Miki – Pocket Of Jewels) High strike rate trainer Laurence Hanrahan produced a handy qualifier in the hands of Rick May, soon led and kept going too well for her rivals, 3 1/2L clear at the line MR:2:06.7, 800m in 58.0, 400m in 28.4 The filly has a bit of breeding behind her and the ‘Miki’ fillies have proven good racehorses, one to watch when the astute trainer elects to take her to the races. Wyndham Workouts Sunday September 24 Weather Fine Track Fast Cormac Leo (3g Sweet Lou – Athena Matai) The Craig Ferguson trained 3yo settled third off five in indian file before improving midrace to take control and kept going strongly to win impressively, last 800m in 55.6, 400m in 27.5 Taken all the way to Addington for his debut where he duly won earlier in the season and then placed fifth in the Group 2 Southern Supremacy at his last start back in April (from only four race day starts), he looks to have come back stronger this time in and will be one to follow in the coming weeks Wagstar (3g Sweet Lou – Sunny Two Shoes) Stablemate of Cormac Leo, raced fourth of five in his trial before finishing stylishly down outer in straight to dispute finish (officially 3rd). MR 2:04.4, 800m in 56.1, 400m in 28.8. The winner of his first two starts then placed second in the Group 2 Southern Supremacy behind the unbeaten Ohoka Connor at his last start (also only four raceday starts), he gives the stable a strong hand at the 3yo level in the deep south but also not to be underestimated if the trainer decides to travel further afield. Yet another stablemate Glaucus (3g Captaintreacherous – Summer Ale) ran a close up 2nd in the same trial after leading up. He too is lightly raced having won two of his four starts. Joeking (2g Majestic Son – Bobby Jo) & Yosemite (2f Volstead – Majestic Blaze) The McIntyre pair trailed in the four horse trial with Joeking finishing best to have half a length to spare over his stablemate at the line but both looked to have plenty in hand, last 800m in 59.6, 400m in 28.8. Both travelled to Addington back in May for their respective debuts where Yosemite finshed 2nd and Joeking was disqualified for galloping. Put aside after just that one run, they both looked solid in this trial and could still make the trek north to take on the better 2yos in the coming weeks Pukekohe Workouts Saturday September 23 Weather Overcast Track Good Chimichurri (4h Bettor’s Delight – Saucycullen) The Telfer trained entire missed away from the 2500m stand but quickly recovered to assume control after 600m from Bolt For Brilliance (T) who had stepped nicely. Kept up a strong run to hold out Old Town Road. The latter settled last of five then took the short way home inside the final 600m, was giving leader 4L at 400m and got within a neck at the line. Winners last 800m in 58.1, 400m in 27.1 Bolt For Brilliance sprinted sharply from the trail to be a 1/2L away in third and trainer Tony Herlihy would have been super happy with the effort against open class pacers Yourdoinamazinsweety (2g Sunshine Beach – Alesandra Ambrosio) The Herlihy trained 2yo raced last of five before improving to sit parked last 800m, fought strongly for his third, less then 1L from winner Lenny Lincoln who trailed then came along inner to just get up. MR:2:04.7, 800m in 59.7, 400m in 27.7 He won a heat of the Young Guns earlier in the season but being a big type he has been given time and should show the benefit from the patient approach once he reappears on raceday Minjee (2f Bettor’s Delight – Western Confidential) The Hollis/Robertson filly only had one rival but showed plenty of dash after leading throughout and coming clear by some 5L, running her last 400m in 28.3.Her breeding would suggest she will just get better as she gains further experience. One to paste away. The McGowan stable produced 3 workout winners who all showed enough to be followed when they resume. Lucky Mum (2f Father Patrick – Girls On Film) Already placed behind The Moonstone earlier in the season, she trailed against her two rivals then showed plenty of dash to clear out by 5 1/2L, 800m in 62.7, 400m in 29.3 Castana (3g Quaker Jet – Rosemaryz Luck) Already the winner of two from nine starts, he trailed last of four before improving to lead 600m out, he cleared out in the straight to win impressively, last 800m in 60.3, 400m in 28.4 Broken Promise (5g Sweet Lou – On A Promise) Settled third of five in indian file before improving to sit parked inside final lap, kept going strongly to win well, MR:2:05.1, 800m in 57.9, 400m in 28.1. The trainers must have some faith in him as he has raced only 5 times over 2 seasons and now nearly 6yo! Cambridge Workouts Saturday September 23 Weather Overcast Track Slushy Our Benson (3g Sweet Lou – Helena Jet) Diamonds Are Forever (3f Always B Miki – Three Jewels) The Neal trained filly was good enough to place behind Millwood Nike at Group 1 level earlier in the season. In this trial she trailed throughout, elected to come out on the home turn and without too much effort finished best over her 3 rivals. MR:2:03.3, 800m in 58.8, 400m in 28.6 She would have have derived much benefit from the outing as she prepares to take on the best 3yo fillies in the coming weeks The Rangiora Trials Wed September 20 (Weather Fine but windy / Track Fast) Tinkerbelle (2f What The Hill – Belle Galleon) The Mark Jones trained half sister to top trotter Stent led and then did enough to hold out Bounce N Beyond with 24L to the rest. MR:2.10, 800m in 60.1, 400m in 28.6. The latter was good enough to beat Wilma’s Boy in a recent Rangiora trial and that runner came out and won a 2yo trot by 9L at Addington on the 15th September. Tinkerbelle qualified way back in early March where she dead-heated with High Step, now winning in Australia for her connections at Group level. All these references add up to her being a major player in the upcoming 2yo specials. Its fair to say that the current crop of 2yo trotters is collectively one of the strongest ever ! Heart Throb (3c Sweet Lou – Justalittlebettor ) The Bob Butt trained colt was highlighted in this forum recently and put in another eye catching trials performance behind the explosive Rakero Rocket (another to be highlighted previously). The latter left a trailing spot a lap out to take control then turned the race into a procession winning officially by 18L, last 800m in 55.5, 400m in 26.8. Heart Throb was only officially fifth but was last and some 15L from the runaway pacemaker at the 250m, brought to the outside, he made up many lengths to be in a photo for the minor placings, under little urging from his trainer/driver. Masterly (4g Love You – Brilliant) Formerly with Paul Nairn (4 wins from 14 starts) but now with part owner Bob Butt, the Love You gelding stepped beautifully and was soon in front then had little trouble holding his rivals at ‘arms length’, MR:2:08.7, 800m in 59.5, 400m in 29.4 Remembering he won the 3yo Sires Stakes championship at Alex Park by nearly 7L at Group 2 level and competed at Group 1 level against the best of his age, this fellow has a touch of class and with another year on him, could be a big mover amongst the Canterbury trotters. Krug (5h Bettor’s Delight – Champagne Princess) The Dalgety trained runner began well off 40m (2600m) to tag on to a four horse heat (Sweet Diamond made a mess of the stand and took no part in the trial) before being asked to improve a lap out, unfortunately pacemaker Celtic Spirit elected not to hand up and Krug was forced to race parked for the final 1200m, On a quick half (800m) in 56.5, MR 2:03 (off the front mark), he fought on strongly to be 2L from the pacemaker/winner and now after 2 trials, he looks primed for his raceday resumption at Addington next week. Lets remember that Krug at his best is a sub 1:50 miler ! Borrisokane (3g Sportswriter – Tristar Brigade) The Regan Todd trained 3yo has won two from 10 raceday starts and on this day ran 3rd in the R50 & faster trial, 1L from winner but when the winner is Akuta and the runner up Self Assured, last 800m in 56.8, 400m in 27.8, one takes notice especially as he was making ground solidly over the final stages under his own steam. The stable keeps kicking goals and this bloke did run a sub 1:55 mile earlier in year at Wyndham and former trainer Bruce Negus thought enough of him as a 2yo to debut in the Group 2 Sapling Stakes. Not to be underestimated wherever he travels in the coming weeks. Akuta led and was too good but Self Assured caught the eye coming on stylishly in the straight and was not pushed to get within a length of the winner. Posh Painter (2f Terror To Love – Hanover Glory) The Robbie Close trainer filly raced 4th in indian file before improving to lead 600m out and kept giving to win nicely, last 800m in 57.8, 400m in 28.5. The head wind was quite strong down the back at this time and this qualifying effort looked full of merit. The trainer also has a share in this one. Winton Workouts Thursday 14th September (Weather Fine Track Fast) Raklou (2f Sweet Lou – Raksbet) The smart 2yo, a winner of three from just four starts, was back from her spell running fourth in behind Captain Tom (R35 to R66 pace) who led over the final lap and stayed on too well for his rivals in a 2:03.4MR, 800m in 59.0, 400m in 28.6. Raklou was not pulled out in the run home by trainer Peter Hunter after racing back in the six-horse field and looked to have more to give. Based on what she showed in her first campaign, she will be ultra competitive in the 2yo filly specials coming up over the next few months. Mallory Maquire (2f Art Major – Miranda Maguire) Trained by Alister Black, the unqualified filly raced in a learners heat but it was the way she finished that suggested she might have a future when she gets to the races. ‘Mallory’ trailed early but lost her place as a couple of runners went rough in the running, well back starting the last 500m, she came very wide on final turn then collared the leader in the final 50m under her own steam for young driver Riley Black. 800m in 59.6, 400m in 30.3 She is a 3rd foal half sister to a nice maiden in Lewey Maguire (trained by Telfers) and Sonny Maguire now the winner of three in Queensland. Pukekohe Workouts Friday 14th September (Weather Showery Track Slushy) The Surfer (2g Downbytheseaside – Styx On) Another of the Telfer 2yo fillies Seafield Rose in the hands of Alicia Harrison sped out to lead and kept going too well for her rivals, nearly 3L to the good at the line. 800m in 58.2, 400m in 28.4 The only runner to make any headway over the final 600m was the Donnelly trained The Surfer (3rd) who made up good ground from well back for driver David Butcher. He also qualified back in April where he ran a 2:02MR at Cambridge and has some quality breeding behind him as well. Wyndham Workouts Saturday 16th September (Weather Fine Track Fast) Falcon’s Watch (4g He’s Watching – Touch Of Rose) The Ross Wilson-trained one race winner trailed three deep mostly before mounting a challenge around the final bend and was able to finish strongly and clear of his rivals at the business end, cutting the 2400 mobile out in a 2:02.8MR, last 800m in 57.2, 400m in 28.8. Formerly trained by Nicky Chilcott where he was a winner at Alexandra Park, he has been given a good spell and this run suggested he could turn the poor formline around at short notice. Motukarara Workouts Saturday 16th September Weather Overcast Track Firm (Grass track) Quinn (2g Downbytheseaside – Vengance) Word is that trainer Bruce Negus thinks a lot of Quinn and it was the trainer who hopped in the cart to steer his charge to an impressive win over 3 rivals, last 800m in 61.0, 400m in 27.0 He qualified way back in April at Ashburton but has been given plenty of time to fill into his frame by the astute horseman. He is definitely one to paste away as we wait for that raceday debut. View the full article

What Sandown Hillside Races Where Sandown Racecourse – 591-659 Princes Hwy, Springvale VIC 3171 When Sunday, October 1, 2023 First Race 1:15pm AEST Visit Dabble The Hillside track at Sandown is the destination for an eight-race program on Sunday afternoon where the Group 3 Sandown Stakes (1500m) is the highlight of the day. A perfect day for racing awaits punters with the track coming up a Good 4 at the time of acceptances, whilst the rail comes out 6m the entire circuit. Racing from Sandown is set to commence at 1:15pm AEST. Here are our Sandown tips and best bets for Sunday, October 1, 2023. Sandown Stakes Top Tip: Antino There is no doubting the fact Antino should have won first-up in Victoria in the Listed Sofitel at Flemington on September 16 when horribly held up for a run. The five-year-old gelding comes to Sandown with Blake Shinn hopping on board and strikes a relatively weak Group 3 event. The five-year-old son of Redwood will likely lob just behind the speed, in the moving line to hopefully avoid any traffic issues in running this time around. Sandown Stakes Race 6 – #1 Antino (5) 5yo Gelding | T: Tony Gollan | J: Blake Shinn (58kg) -142.86 with Betfair Best Bet at Sandown: Wishlor Lass Our best bet at Sandown comes in the opening race of the day when the Symon Wilde-trained Wishlor Lass looks to bounce back from an unlucky first-up defeat. The five-year-old mare was held up for a run when building through the gears and lost momentum at a key stage, before flying home to be beaten by just over a length. He draws to gain a perfect run once again from barrier four and with even luck this time around, Wishlor Lass can exert her dominance inside the final furlong and get us off to a flyer on Sunday. Best Bet Race 1 – #2 Wishlor Lass (4) 5yo Mare | T: Symon Wilde | J: Jamie Kah (61.5kg) +130 with PendleburyBet Next Best at Sandown: Hedged With a bit of luck, Wishlor Lass has saluted in the first and we can (responsibly) load up on Hedged in the second event. The three-year-old hailing from the Mick Price & Michael Kent (Jnr) barn went from a dominant Seymour maiden victory to finishing fourth in the Group 3 McNeil Stakes (1200m) behind the likes of Veight and Little Brose. This is much easier and if Jamie Kah can lob this bloke outside the leader, Hedged should prove a touch too classy for this field late on. Next Best Race 2 – #3 Hedged (7) 3yo Gelding | T: Mick Price & Michael Kent (Jnr) | J: Jamie Kah (59kg) +200 with Boombet Best Value at Sandown: Hennessy Lad Hennessy Lad comes to this Sandown 1800m affair rock hard fit and with the benefit of Sheridan Clarke claiming 3kg, gets in perfectly at the weights with 58.5kg on his back. He chased home subsequent Caulfield winner First Immortal when finishing third at Moonee Valley on September 9 and his win prior suggests he is right in a race like this. If Clarke can find cover from barrier 11, Hennessy Lad brings race fitness and strong form and at an each-way price with online bookmakers, can insert some value into the quaddie early on. Best Value Race 5 – #2 Hennessy Lad (11) 4yo Gelding | T: Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman | J: Sheridan Clarke (a3) (61.5kg) +1000 with Picklebet Sunday quaddie tips for Sandown races Sandown quadrella selections Sunday, October 1, 2023 2-9-10-16 1-3 2-5-9-10-12 1-7-11-16 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article