Wandering Eyes

Eighteen-year-old jockey Axel Concepcion, who is Maryland's top apprentice this year, has been suspended 30 days for “extremely careless” riding in a Sept. 21 race at Delaware Park that resulted in the euthanization of a rival horse that had fallen. The Sept. 28 Delaware stewards' ruling stated that Concepcion failed “to control and guide his mount, Backwoods Boogie (Red Rocks [IRE]), leaving the starting gate, impeding several horses, and causing the horse Trumpence (Eskendereya) to fall, which resulted in a fatal injury to Trumpence. Due to the fallen horse, the race had to be immediately suspended, all horses pulled up, and declared a no contest.” The Paulick Report first broke the news, quoting Concepcion's agent, Tom Stift, as saying the penalty will be reduced to 21 days because the ruling was not appealed. The Sept. 21 report for race seven submitted by Delaware stewards Joelyn Rigione, Robert Colton and William Troilo stated that Trumpence, ridden by Kevin Gomez, “clipped heels past the finish the first time” and that “horse and rider were down and not moving.” The warning lights and siren were activated, and the stewards ordered the outriders to have the jockeys pull up their mounts. “The gate crew was out on the track also, diverting the field to the outside. Horse was euthanized on the track when he couldn't get up. Jockey Kevin Gomez after some time was able to stand and be escorted to the ambulance,” the report stated. Gomez resumed riding the next afternoon at Delaware, winning with his first mount after the spill. Trumpence was a 9-year-old gelding trained by Dan Ward and owned in partnership by George Todaro, Robert Blanchard, and Brad's Equine Adventure. He didn't start racing until age five at Will Rogers Downs, but won his first three races there before eventually compiling an 8-4-3 mark from 25 starts while competing at Canterbury, Remington, Sam Houston, Oaklawn, Monmouth and Delaware. Concepcion turned pro Jan. 1 in his native Puerto Rico. He won 21 races there before earning his first mainland U.S. victory Feb. 19 at Fair Grounds. He shifted his tack to Laurel a week later, and has since been among the leaders at the Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course meets while also picking up mounts at other mid-Atlantic region tracks. The post Apprentice Suspended 30 Days for ‘Extremely Careless’ Riding in Delaware Race that Caused Equine Fatality appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Jonny Turner Bring On The Muscle has only had one start but he has already formed some great habits. The two-year-old came into race 2 at Gore yesterday having won five out of his five appearances at the trials and workouts. The trotter kept his winning run going in his first attempt at the races, when putting away a field of more seasoned rivals by three lengths. Despite just being a baby in racing terms, the Clark Barron trained Bring On The Muscle raced like a true professional when leading throughout. “We have sort of been lucky, he has been pretty well schooled for today,” Barron said. “It is always a wee risk first up, but he brought his A-game.” While he has shown the public his ability in his recent trials, Bring On The Muscle has shown Barron his promise right from a young age. “He has always shown ability, he is a big, strong lad for a two-year-old.” “He has taken a wee bit of maturing, so we have just waited on him.” “We have taken the patient approach and now we will reap the benefits, hopefully.” Untested in his win for driver Brent Barclay, Bring On The Muscle looks to have the scope to step up to quality age-group company. Barron suspects he will, but he is unlikely to rush the horse into any big races right away. “You would like to think so, but we will cross that bridge when we come to it.” “We thought we would crawl before we walk and teach him the basics and see where we go from there.” “But you would have to think he is up to it.” Bring On The Muscle was bred and is raced by Barron’s wife Jackie. The horse races in the colours of long-time Southland studmaster, as well as breeder and trainer, the late Owen Crooks. “They’re my father-in-law – Jackie’s father Owen Crooks’ colours.” “Jackie was keen to get them back out there and it is a fitting result, really.” Bring On The Muscle took out the second race on the Gore all-weather track since 2020, after Canterbury visitor and hot favourite Sucrita took out the first. View the full article

By Michael Guerin Have we finally found a serious challenger to unbeaten filly Millwood Nike? Mantra Blue’s stunning recovery performance to win the Nevele R 50 Years of Success heat at Cambridge on Thursday night suggests we might have, even if trainer Zachary Butcher is trying to keep a lid on expectations. Having just her third start Mantra Blue not only looked in trouble having to start from the outside of the front line but her winning chances should have ended soon after the start as she was checked, pushed wider and settled at least five lengths off the back of the bunch. Over 1700m mobile with fillies like Kahlua Flybye and Seaclusion, who have chased home Millwood Nike in some of our best filly races this year, Mantra Blue should have been done. But quite remarkably she not only latched on to the pack but looped them over the last 400m and went straight past her rivals to win going away by one and three-quarter lengths in a 1:54.8 mile rate. It was her third win as many career starts. It was equal parts sensational and surprising because Mantra Blue is so new and so untapped. If the superstar filly Millwood Nike had done that herself we would be wondering whether she was an all-time great of her age and sex so maybe now we have to start asking whether the northern filly can at least test the best of her crop? “I have huge respect for Millwood Nike and she won’t be easy to beat but we are going to have a crack,” says Butcher. “I honestly think our filly can keep improving. I haven’t had her long and she is still settling in to my place. “That felt pretty awesome tonight and while it looked like a speed win she is a very good stayer.” Mantra Blue will be flown south in the next few weeks looking for a lead-up race to the Nevele R Fillies Final on Cup Day before she stays in Canterbury until the New Zealand Oaks on December 10. The Cup Day race will be her first clash with Millwood Nike, who returns to racing at Addington next Friday. Mantra Blue won’t be the only impressive Thursday night winner heading south as unbeaten two-year-old trotter Paramount Kiwi goes there for his next start in the Harness Million on October 13. He had his juvenile trot won the moment key rival Dreams Pat galloped at the start but Paramount Kiwi still distanced his rivals in a 1:59.6 mile rate for the 1700m. “He did it easily and we are looking forward to getting him to Addington,” says trainer-driver Matty White, who seems to be winning a feature race every week at the moment. Paramount Kiwi looks the sort of natural trotter who should handle the trip away and with many of the more exposed juvenile trotters not eligible for the Harness Million he could find himself in the right race in two weeks. “He will fly down which is a real bonus now that the flights are back,” says White. “But after the 13th his only other big target down there is the Sires’ Stakes at the Grand Prix meeting on December 10 so I will have to have a good think about whether he is better off staying for that or being at home spelling.” Another horse who earned a trip away by winning on Thursday was Shez Bella, who obliterated her older opponents with a 12-length win in the lower grade trot and will now head to Victoria for the three-year-old trot features alongside stablemate Lovemeto. View the full article

An injury has prevented Shaun Phelan from competing in one role over the last few months, but the versatile horseman has made giant strides in another one – earning the honour of the gavelhouse.com Newcomer to Training Award at the recent New Zealand Thoroughbred Horse of the Year Awards in Auckland. The 31-year-old was originally best known as a jumps jockey, riding more than 120 winners and topping New Zealand’s premiership table for the 2021-22 season. Among his victories are no fewer than 25 Prestige Jumping Races, including the coveted Grand National Steeplechase, Grand National Hurdle, Great Northern Steeplechase and Great Northern Hurdle. Phelan was injured in a race fall at Warrnambool in early May, ruling him out of riding for the remainder of the jumps season. But he has instead put his full attention into his fledgling training career, which he elevated to a new level during 2022-23. Phelan trained a total of 17 winners from 96 runners during that season, and his runners earned a total of $369,300 in stakes. Those results have lifted Phelan’s career tally to 54 wins from 374 starters, with total prize-money of $1.23 million. He began his training career in partnership with his father Craig five years ago, subsequently relocating their base from Rotorua to Cambridge, and he has been training in his own right for the last two seasons. Phelan set the Newcomer to Training Award as a personal goal for himself during the 2022-23 season, and he delivered in great style. Notably, his 17 wins came from no fewer than 10 different horses. “It was very rewarding to pick up the Newcomer to Training Award, and it was a great season,” Phelan said. “It was especially good that we were able to win races with 10 different horses.” A headline performer for the stable in 2022-23 was Enchanted Elle (NZ) (Jakkalberry), who began the season with only one win to her name from 12 career starts and had a rating of 65. From 13 races last season, Enchanted Elle collected another five wins and three placings, earning over $113,000 in stakes. In June and July, she captured the time-honoured $35,000 Parliamentary Handicap (2200m) and $50,000 Taumarunui Gold Cup (2200m). Enchanted Elle delivered another notable result in September of last year, when she won the Flair Amateur Riders (2200m) with Phelan’s sister Leigh in the saddle. “A couple of highlights from the season come to mind,” Phelan said at Sunday evening’s awards ceremony. “Earlier in the season we had a really good day at the Pakuranga Hunt meeting – I rode a winner, I trained a winner, my sister rode a winner in the amateur riders’ race, and our apprentice jockeys Kelsey (Hannan) and Elen (Nicholas) rode winners too. So that was a really good team effort. “And then, later in the season, winning the Taumarunui Cup was another big highlight.” Another notable runner has been Hill Of Kings (NZ) (Time Test), who Phelan bought for only $600 from gavelhouse.com in February. From five starts since joining the stable, he has recorded two wins and two placings, earning $32,930 in stakes. Phelan even has a lucrative Australian target in the back of his mind for the talented four-year-old – the A$300,000 Jericho Cup (4600m). “I bought him off gavelhouse.com for $600, so he’s done a great job already and I hope to qualify him for the Jericho,” Phelan said. Phelan believes his riding background gives him a real advantage when it comes to training horses. “I’m lucky that I can get on a horse and get a good idea of how it feels,” he said. “It’s like a car driver testing out a car. But I’ve also had some injuries and have had to rely on other people to ride them and tell me how they’re going. Being able to ride them yourself is a big advantage, so I’d like to keep doing that.” Phelan is refusing to get too far ahead of himself in terms of setting goals for the next 12 months. “I’d really like to win some sort of stakes races – that would be a good goal for this season,” he said. “But I’m not too worried about numbers of wins or things like that. I’ll just try to keep the strike rate going.” Currently live on gavelhouse.com is a 39 Lot mixed bloodstock auction that includes the recently retired Group One performer for Challenge Syndications, Best Seller. Bidding ends from 7pm on Monday. View the full article

Kenny Rae and Krystal Williams will rely on a promising band of youngsters at Riccarton on Saturday. The father and daughter training duo will produce their biggest raceday contingent from their new Burnham stable when eight horses head to Saturday’s meeting, seven of those either two- or three-year-olds. “We have a heap of good young stock at the moment,” Williams said. “We’re looking forward to stepping them out on Saturday.” Rae and Williams have Bezique and Illicit Dreams in the Rangiora New World Guineas Trial (1400m), though Illicit Dreams is an uncertain starter on a heavy track. Ace High gelding Bezique, a winner of his last two starts at Ruakaka, would definitely run, Williams confirmed. “He arrived down here three weeks ago now. He’s pretty hard just going about his work. He’s really bright and he’ll be a good chance,” Williams said. “There’s always a question of him racing left-handed, of him racing away from Ruakaka, because he hasn’t done that yet but I don’t see why he won’t stand up to it down here. “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. We just don’t want to hammer her on a heavy track. It won’t hurt her to wait till Ashburton.” Illicit Dreams has been close-up behind Viva Vienna in two starts as a three-year-old, performances that have been even more meritorious considering the stable has been working to get on top of her oral issues. “She’s had a few problems with her teeth and we’ve taken care to get on top of that. The way they are formed we’ve got to keep on cleaning them out otherwise food sticks in there,” Williams said. “It’s like there’s too much of a gap between her teeth but with age that will close up. Since we’ve been on top of that, her form has really improved.” Whether she races this weekend or not, Illicit Dreams will have her lead-up to the Gr.1 Barneswood Farm NZ 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton on November 18 in the Gr.3 Barneswood Farm Stakes (1400m) at Ashburton on October 14. Spring feature three-year-old assignments for Bezique and Contributer filly Dancing Dream, who drops back to maiden company on Saturday will depend on how they perform this weekend. Dancing Dream has placed in seven of her 11 starts, including two second placings to Crocetti, one in the Gr.3 Northland Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) at Ruakaka before a last-start third to Bezique at that track last start. “We always thought the maiden race was the right race for her to try and pick up a win. She just keeps getting beaten by those nicer three-year-olds. She’s not very big but she’s tough and we’ll try and get her a confidence boost on Saturday,” Williams said. The stable will produce four two-year-olds in the Nobby Bussell Memorial (800m): Charm Spirit gelding Redemption, Vadamos filly Collective Hearts, Super Seth filly Super Rosa and Rageese filly Porthouse Lady. All but trials runner-up Porthouse Lady have won trials, with Collective Hearts winning both 600m heats. “They are four really nice two-year-olds,” Williams said. “Redemption has got some really nice trials form in the north and Super Rosa has too. Collective Hearts has trialled really well down here. 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. Redemption has a lot of speed but he’s still got a lot to learn.” Rae and Williams’ other runner is Reliable Man seven-year-old The Buffer, who tackles the Coupland’s Bakeries Mile Trial (1400m) at his third start of the preparation with stable apprentice Danika Wilson claiming a 4kg allowance. “He steps up to 1400m and the track should suit him a lot better so we’re hopeful of a better result. He’s been running well but the races just haven’t suited him,” Williams said. “Danika is starting to pick up a few more rides now and she’s getting stronger. Hopefully she can pick up a win soon.” View the full article

Times Ticking has overcome a setback for a belated crack at a top-flight title at the Hawke’s Bay spring carnival. Trainer and part-owner Alby MacGregor’s plans to run his pride and joy on the opening day of the meeting were dashed, but he has been pleased with his charge’s powers of recovery to head into Saturday’s Gr.1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m) at Hastings in fine fettle. The Opaki horseman was forced to revert to Plan B with Times Ticking, who has showed encouraging signs in lead-up trials ahead of his return to competition. “We were going to run him in the Tarzino Trophy (Gr.1, 1400m), but he got a crook foot so we had to flag that,” MacGregor said. “We took him to the trials after that and he went well, but it is a good field as you’d expect so it is a big ask but we shall see what happens. “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.” Times Ticking won both the Gr.3 Canterbury Gold Cup (2000m) and the Listed Easter Cup (1600m) at Riccarton during a lucrative autumn campaign before his winter preparation was derailed at Wanganui. The son of Tavistock tailed the field home in his last appearance in the Listed AGC Training Stakes (1600m) after suffering a heart fibrillation. “I’ve never had that ever before with a horse, I have heard about it plenty of times and he is fine now,” MacGregor said. “He hasn’t showed any signs of ill effect at all. Everybody I have spoken to have said they can bounce back pretty quickly and he’s won his trials without a lot of effort.” Times Ticking was successful in consecutive open heats on the all-weather track at Awapuni and at Foxton in the hands of Lisa Allpress, who will again be aboard in the Arrowfield Stud Plate. Fortunately for MacGregor, the gelding’s versatility has made him one of the few trainers unconcerned about track conditions at Hastings with Times Ticking’s 10 career wins coming on both firm and heavy surfaces. “I’m not worried about it at all, he’ll be enjoying that track,” he said. Safely through Saturday, MacGregor is keen to take Times Ticking back to Christchurch for a tilt at the Gr.3 Coupland’s Bakeries Mile (1600m). “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,” he said. Tines Ticking has won three of his five appearances at Riccarton with MacGregor making his southern ventures a family affair, staying with son Dean at Rangiora and grandson Matthew, an apprentice blacksmith, often on strapping duties. View the full article

The Horse Racing Women's Summit (HRWS) has launched an annual membership program, giving community members a chance to regularly engage and support the HRWS mission. Membership dues will cost $75 and include access to a member directory, a HRWS lapel pin, and early access to event tickets. Dues will help HRWS invest in programs, research, scholarships, and events. “We are at the very beginning of the work needed to drive advancements for women in racing,” said HRWS committee member Shona Rotondo. “HRWS membership gives everyone an opportunity to support this movement and propel it into the future.” For more information, visit womeninracingsummit.com/membership. The post Horse Racing Women’s Summit Offers Annual Membership appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Frankie Lor wins the Group 3 Celebration Cup Handicap (1400m) with Healthy Happy. Frankie Lor hopes to add the Group 3 National Day Cup Handicap (1000m) at Sha Tin on Sunday to last weekend’s Group 3 Celebration Cup Handicap success when he saddles Adios and Rewarding Together in the HK$4.2 million sprint feature. Needing only one more win to reach the 400-win milestone in Hong Kong, the 2021/22 champion trainer is optimistic Adios or Rewarding Together can prevail. “I hope so, I always try,” Lor said, contemplating Group 3 triumphs across successive weekends after Healthy Happy’s Group 3 Celebration Cup Handicap (1400m) win last Sunday. “There wasn’t much between Adios and Rewarding Together last time, so I hope they both keep the good form. Adios is good. He likes a firm track and last time it was a little bit rainy, so I think he will appreciate a firm track this time. I think 1000m on a firm track is good for him. “I think Adios, being a bit younger, has a slightly better chance but Rewarding Together is racing well.” Lor’s pair – who will both carry 117lb – faces Sight Success (135lb), Stoltz (124lb), Kurpany (119lb), Whizz Kid (115lb) and We Are Hero (115lb) in the five-furlong dash. Adios and Rewarding Together opened their 2023/24 campaigns finishing third and fourth, respectively, on yielding ground behind Victor The Winner and Lucky Sweynesse. Lor was heartened by the performance of the pair and believes the predicted weather on Sunday will play to his string’s hopes. “I think they will both like the firm track,” he said. Francis Lui hopes a 1000m barrier trial at Conghua on September 18 will provide a successful foundation for Stoltz to post his second Sha Tin victory as the consistent six-year-old resumes under Zac Purton. Chasing a third consecutive win, Stoltz has won five races in Hong Kong – all over 1000m – and Lui hopes the gelding can again perform at Sha Tin. “He’s in good form. He had a barrier trial at Conghua and he went well. This distance at the weekend is his best and he should be competitive,” Lui said. Rated 118, John Size-trained Sight Success returns under Hugh Bowman in search of a ninth Hong Kong win after finishing third in the Conghua trial behind Alacrity and Stoltz 10 days ago. A dual Group 1 placegetter, Sight Success represents the class factor in the field but has to concede a minimum of 11 pounds – and up to 20 pounds – to his rivals. More horse racing news View the full article

By all accounts, the undefeated GI Breeders' Cup Classic winner Flightline was truly a once-in-a-generation horse. Like the legendary A.P. Indy, his great-grandsire who also stood at Lane's End, Flightline was a seven-figure yearling fashioned into a Horse of the Year, but it was the way he made very good horses look like ordinary mortals that cemented his acclaim. Flightline completed his first season at stud this year; will he also follow in A.P. Indy's footsteps and become a breed-shaping sire? “Flightline had an excellent start at stud, covering 152 mares including more than 50 Grade I mares or Grade I producers,” said Lane's End Farm's Bill Farish. “There's obviously a huge amount of excitement about his first foals, we can't wait to see them.” Flightline (2018 bay horse, Tapit–Feathered, by Indian Charlie) Lifetime record: Horse of the Year, Ch. older male, MGISW, 6-6-0-0, $4,514,800 Breeders' Cup connections: B-Summer Wind Equine (KY); O- Hronis Racing LLC, Siena Farm LLC, Summer Wind Equine LLC, West Point Thoroughbreds, & Woodford Racing, LLC; T-John Sadler; J-Flavien Prat. Current location: Lane's End Farm, Versailles, Ky. The post Catching Up with 2022 Breeders’ Cup Classic Winner Flightline appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

What Morphettville Races Where Morphettville Racecourse – 79 Morphett Rd, Morphettville SA 5043 When Saturday, September 30, 2023 First Race 12:27pm ACST Visit Dabble The Parks track at Morphettville is the destination for metropolitan racing in South Australia on Saturday afternoon. A nine-race program is set to greet punters with the track rated a Good 4, with the rail back to the true position, meaning we should be punting on a perfect track. Action from the City of Churches gets underway at 12:27pm ACST. Best Bet at Morphettville: Does It Hailing from the Richard & Chantelle Jolly stable, Does It was simply put, a moral beaten last time out. The seven-year-old gelding was strung up badly for a run on September 16 over 2051m at Morphettville, before finding clear air late and going down by less than half a length. He has not won in close to 18 months, but with even luck on Saturday, he should prove to be the superior stayer in a race like this. For a stayer, he has a strong turn of foot and Does It should be bringing up a long overdue win here. Best Bet Race 8 – #2 Does It (6) 7yo Gelding | T: Richard & Chantelle Jolly | J: Jake Toeorek (59.5kg) +170 with PendleburyBet Next Best at Morphettville: Sixteen Reasons One of our better bets of the day comes up in the quaddie opener as Sixteen Reasons looks to build on her strong recent form. The four-year-old mare was the beneficiary of a gun steer from Linda Meech when saluting over 1200m on the course proper at Morphettville. Todd Pannell hops back on board and at this stage of a campaign, the step up to 1400m looks perfect. From barrier four, the Jukebox mare will gain a perfect run in transit and with a well-timed sprint, Sixteen Reasons should prove a touch too good late. Next Best Race 6 – #7 Sixteen Reasons (4) 4yo Mare | T: Will Clarken & Nikki O’Shea | J: Todd Pannell (56.5kg) +210 with Betfair Best Value at Morphettville: A Pinch Of Luck Since joining the Mitchell Leek barn, A Pinch Of Luck has seemingly grown another leg this campaign. A win, two minor placings and a Sandown fourth has this Shamus Award mare entering a No Metro Wins race like this in fine form. The small field of six should suit her perfectly as she wants to get back in running and hit the line strongly. Lovie May and Vee Rod should make this a genuinely run 1300m event, which should set the race up perfectly for A Pinch Of Luck to blouse the leaders late. Best Value Race 1 – #7 A Pinch Of Luck (5) 6yo Mare | T: Mitchell Leek | J: Alana Kelly (54.5kg) +700 with Dabble Saturday quaddie tips for Morphettville Morphettville quadrella selections Saturday, September 30, 2023 5-7 2-3-4-6-8 1-2 1-4-5-7-10 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article

Horse Racing on Friday, September 29 will feature seven meetings in Australia. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the top bets and the quaddie numbers for the meetings at Dubbo & Moonee Valley. Friday Racing Tips – September 29, 2023 Dubbo Racing Tips Moonee Valley Racing Tips Friday’s Best Racing Bets Of The Day – September 29, 2023 Place these horse racing bets in a multi for $143.89 odds return: Friday, September 29, 2023 Moonee Valley Race 2 – #3 Brave Mead Dubbo Race 5 – #2 Joshua Benella Race 9 – #3 Presser Coleraine Race 5 – #1 Brechen Townsville Race 5 – #1 Phantom Spirit | 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 September 29, 2023 check out our guide to the best online racing betting sites. More horse racing tips View the full article

BloodHorse Daily is celebrating the 50th anniversary of Secretariat's Triple Crown season by tapping Lenny Shulman's wonderful look back at each of his 1973 races on the calendar dates of those events.View the full article

Impressive filly Gala Brand tops the Miss Grillo Stakes (G2T) while Todd Pletcher saddles a strong duo in the Pilgrim Stakes (G2T) Oct. 1 at Belmont at the Big A.View the full article

The current Turf Paradise owner is courting a new buyer who just emerged last week as a potential savior for keeping racing alive at the state's otherwise-closing cornerstone track. On Thursday, the Arizona Racing Commission (AZRC) voted to extend Turf Paradise's simulcasting privileges through Nov. 12 while regulators commenced a due diligence vetting process that could greenlight the sale. The stated goal among stakeholders is to start a race meet in January under new ownership at the Phoenix oval. The current management announced back on Aug. 1 that the 67-year-old track wouldn't be opening for live racing as scheduled in November. The principal buyer in the deal was named as Frank Nickens by Arizona Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (AZHBPA) president Lloyd Yother. At a different point in the meeting, Turf Paradise general manager Vincent Francia said Nickens hadn't been able to attend the online-only Sept. 28 meeting, so he instead read a prepared statement on Nickens's behalf that Francia said was signed by Richard Moore, the chief executive officer for an entity called Turf Paradise Trust, LLC. But other than disclosing the names of the principals and their potential buying group, virtually nothing was discussed at the meeting regarding their business or racing backgrounds. The name of that limited liability company is not currently listed with the Arizona Corporations Commission, although it is possible the deal is coming together so quickly that the registration does not yet appear in the government's database. “A lot of people have to understand that this guy [just] came forth [Sept. 20],” Yother said. “I do not know Mr. Nickens. I have no connections to Mr. Nickens. And all I can go on is what he discussed with the contract group with the HBPA.” Yother said Nickens met Tuesday with AZHBPA representatives for several hours, then spoke again at an AZHBPA board meeting on Wednesday, at which the horsemen gave the prospective buyer their support to approve temporary simulcast permissions commencing Oct. 1. That permission from the horsemen is necessary so that Turf Paradise's advance-deposit wagering agreements and 37 off-track betting parlors under won't go dark after Sept. 30 and can still generate purse account money. “This all had happened in the last three or four days,” Yother said. “But it's the only 'olive branch,' if you will, that we could grab ahold of at this time to keep the OTBs open and running. All we're looking for is someone to run live racing in the state of Arizona and to save the industry.” A planned sale of Turf Paradise to a different buyer, CT Realty, was first made public Apr. 12. At that time, TDN reported that racing was expected to continue there only as a placeholder for several more seasons while new uses for the 67-year-old venue went through the planning, approval, and construction stages. About a month later, CT Realty announced that it would consider keeping racing going on a longer-term basis if it could successfully lobby the state legislature to approve historical horse racing machines or some other form of gaming at the track. But on Sept. 18, Jerry Simms, who has owned Turf Paradise for 23 years, made it public that the deal to CT Realty had fallen through, and that the track and its simulcasting outlets would close Sept. 30. The Nickens-led LLC buying group emerged immediately thereafter, Simms said. “We've entered into a letter of intent. A purchase contract is being sent [Thursday] morning,” Simms said. “I believe the [AZRC on Wednesday] sent him his papers for his licensing and permit,” Simms said. As Francia explained, “The plan is to open a live race meet in early January, and that is what we are all aiming for.” Simms has been on the record since 2020 as saying that Turf Paradise operates at a “huge negative” financially. Simms said several other potential buyers wanted the 213-acre property after the CT Realty deal blew up, but he underscored that he wants to sell to the Nickens group because that entity wants to keep the sport going instead of redeveloping the track for some other purpose. “I had several buyers for the track. And I chose the buyer that I signed an agreement and [am] moving ahead with because he plans to run racing,” Simms said. “He's very much an enthusiast; wants to have racing, is not interested in [redevelopment],” Simms said. “I want to save the industry, the jobs. I could have gotten even perhaps more money with one of the other buyers, [but I wanted} to save racing.” In recent years, the relationship between the Arizona racing community and Simms has been acrimonious. An extraordinarily long pandemic closure, multiple racetrack safety issues, and prolonged fights over off-track betting privileges, simulcast signals, and how the horsemen's purse money can be used have roiled in the courts and at racing commission meetings. “The purchase and sale, he's ready to move ahead,” Simms said. “He said he could close in 60 days.” Simms added that if the deal doesn't get done by January, or if the AZRC hasn't completed its vetting process, he would be open to some sort of leasing arrangement that would enable a race meet to begin in 2024 even if the sale isn't official. “Hopefully the [AZRC] will have enough time to do their due diligence. But the purchase and sale, he's ready to move ahead.” The prepared statement from the Nickens entity that Francia read into the record stated that the new LLC is “working towards the purchase of Turf Paradise racecourse. We plan to keep live racing and to bring this facility into a new era [and continue] horse racing for the benefit of everyone involved. We feel the preservation of such a wonderfully historical facility and the preservation of thousands of jobs horse racing offers can carry the legacy of Turf Paradise on for another 50 years. We plan to completely redevelop the surrounding land, all for the benefit of horse racing. We look forward to a new, bright future for everyone at Turf Paradise.” Beyond the horsemen-vs.-Simms feuding that has hovered over Arizona racing like a dark cloud for years, Turf Paradise and Arizona Downs, 82 miles north in Prescott Valley, have continually been at odds over race dates and the control of simulcasting signals. Arizona Downs didn't apply for a June-through-September race meet this year because of financial difficulties. It has been mentioned as being up for sale or lease for well over a year, with 1/ST Racing and Gaming often rumored (but never confirmed) to be a potential buyer. Arizona Downs formerly operated as Yavapai Downs between 2000 and 2010, when the ownership at that time filed for bankruptcy. David Auther, a co-owner of Arizona Downs, questioned at Thursday's meeting why Turf Paradise would be getting simulcasting privileges even though its current ownership has stated it wants out of the live racing business. “We need to consider enforcing the statute that is on the books that says each track gets its signal during its meet, and only during its meet,” Auther said. “Having said that, we congratulate Turf Paradise on finding this buyer,” Auther continued, expressing slightly sarcastic incredulity about the prospect of “a guy that nobody knew of a week ago who's going to come in the door and pay hundreds of millions and have a contract in four days.” Added Auther: “I'm sure that somebody's going to vet this. And I have a hunch the vetting won't take very long [and] we'll all know how to proceed here.” TDN phoned Auther after the meeting and left a voicemail asking if he'd elaborate on why he didn't think the Nickens group's vetting process would take long. No callback was received in time for this story. Nor did Francia, of Turf Paradise, return a message left by TDN asking for details about the deal and the background on who, exactly, the buying group is. As AZRC chair Chuck Coolidge quipped at one point during Thursday's meeting, “It's not a traditional Arizona Racing Commission meeting without the two tracks going against each other, as always.” The post New Buyer for Turf Paradise Emerges appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Alberta Sale, held at Westerner Park in Red Deer on Friday, Sept. 22 reflected positive increases across all benchmarks, the Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society said in a press release Thursday. Over $600,000 in gross sales was recorded to purchase 43 yearlings this year, compared to $443,600 on 40 yearlings the year prior. The average price was up 27% to $14,135 from $11,090 in 2022. The median increased over twofold to $10,000, from $4,750 in 2022. The sale topper was Hip #59, a Counterforce gelding out of the Katowice mare, Chilli Chines, consigned by agent Highfield Investment Group and selling for $46,000 to purchaser, Curtis Landry. CTHS Alberta Manager Jean Kruse said, “With the CTHS Alberta investing in programs for breeders, it's obviously had a positive impact on our sale. Purchasers and consignors have a far more optimistic outlook this year.” Click here for complete results. The post Positive Numbers For 2023 CTHS Alberta Thoroughbred Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Four-time leading sire Into Mischief, who has broken records with 15 seven-figure yearlings to sell this year, will head the Spendthrift Farm stallion roster once again for 2024, the Central Kentucky farm announced Thursday afternoon. Into Mischief will stand for $250,000 S&N in 2024, identical to his advertised fee for 2023. Into Mischief is currently leading the general sires list for 2024 by a comfortable margin. His progeny for 2024 include 21 black-type winners, nine graded winners, and four Grade I winners, led by GI Kentucky Oaks winner and 'TDN Rising Star' Pretty Mischievous. His yearling average for 2023 of $746,854 also leads the nation. “Into Mischief just continues to wade further and further into unchartered waters when it comes to the long and storied history of stallions in this industry,” said Spendthrift's general manager Ned Toffey. “Not only is he well on his way to capturing his fifth straight champion General Sire title, he is also backing up that success on the racetrack by breaking more records at the sales, and, perhaps most excitingly, as an emerging sire of sires. Into Mischief had 15 yearlings sell for a million dollars or more this year, breaking Storm Cat's record of 13 from 2005. And he has a great chance of having a champion freshman sire, as Maximus Mischief currently sits atop this year's list and Authentic looks poised to make a run next year. It truly is remarkable.” The Spendthrift roster will be 26 strong for 2024, including three new stallions announced earlier this month: Grade I winners Taiba (Gun Runner), Arabian Lion (Justify), and Zandon (Upstart). The first two are also 'TDN Rising Stars'. Taiba is already available for inspection at Spendthrift, while Arabian Lion will make his next start in Saturday's GII Santa Anita Sprint Championship and Zandon in Saturday's GII Woodward S. Both colts are being pointed to the Breeders' Cup and will retire to Spendthrift at the end of the year. Their fees will be announced at that time. “We are excited to announce our 2024 stallion roster and fees fresh off the strongest major yearling sales I can remember,” Toffey said. “The market for a racehorse is as competitive as ever, and that is a wonderful thing for breeders and the overall health of the breeding industry. It should give everyone confidence and optimism heading into 2024. At Spendthrift, we are constantly striving to provide the best opportunities for breeders when it comes to quality, value, and diversity of pedigree at all levels.” Spendthrift's entire 2024 roster, with fees, appears below. Into Mischief, $250,000 Bolt d'Oro, $60,000 Authentic, $50,000 Jackie's Warrior, $45,000 Taiba, $35,000 Cyberknife, $25,000 Yaupon, $25,000 Mo Donegal, $15,000 Vekoma, $15,000 Cross Traffic, $10,000 Goldencents, $10,000 Jimmy Creed, $10,000 Greatest Honour, $7,500 Known Agenda, $7,500 Rock Your World, $7,500 Basin, $5,000 By My Standards, $5,000 Coal Front, $5,000 Temple City, $5,000 Thousand Words, $5,000 Arabian Lion, TBD Maximus Mischief, TBD Mitole, TBD Omaha Beach, TBD Vino Rosso, TBD Zandon, TBD The post Into Mischief Again Heads Spendthrift Roster for 2024 at $250,000 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Arcangelo, the top-rated horse in the official Breeders' Cup Classic rankings, arrived at Santa Anita Park Sept. 27. View the full article

A planned resumption of racing at Turf Paradise in Phoenix in January is tied to a potential purchase headed by Frank Nickens and another partner, horsemen and track representatives told members of the Arizona Racing Commission Sept. 28.View the full article

Hall of Fame rider Pat Day was one of four new members named to the board of the Kentucky Derby Museum Sept. 15, the organization said in a release late Thursday. Joining Day, the other new Derby Museum board members include: Mark Bacon, SVP Managing Director – Super Premium American Whiskey Ashley Davis Sigman, Vice President of Davis Jewelers Eamon O'Brien, General Manager of Omni Louisville Outgoing Board members Brandy Harmon, Michael Judah, and Loren Hebel-Osborne were honored during the meeting for completing their terms of service. The late Clinton Glasscock was also recognized for his 12 years of service to the Museum's Board. A new Board Chair was unanimously approved. The Board's Vice Chair, David Nett, was then selected to replace outgoing Chair Glenn Haygood. Haygood served two years as Chair and is now Immediate Past Chair. “I'm pleased to see the incredible success that is a result of the Board's collaboration and partnership with the Kentucky Derby Museum over the years,” said Haygood. “The Museum is on track to hit record attendance for 2023, and that momentum will only continue through what is expected to be an epic Derby 150.” The post Pat Day Among New Board Members At The Kentucky Derby Museum appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

7th-Belmont The Big A, $75,000, (S), Msw, 9-28, 2yo, f, 6 1/2f, 1:17.95, ft, 4 1/4 lengths. ENFUEGA (f, 2, Flameaway–Gran Lucky Girl, by Maclean's Music) jumped right to the lead and withstood pressure from Granadilla (Practical Joke) through a half in :46.32. Pushed for more run into the turn, the 6-1 shot responded in kind and drew off steadily to the wire, graduating by 4 1/4 lengths over Book of Wisdom (Solomini). The 13th winner for freshman sire Flameaway (by Scat Daddy), Enfuega has a yearling Spun to Run half-brother while her dam visited Mitole for 2024. Sales History: $180,000 Ylg '22 SARAUG. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $41,250. Click for the Equibase.com chart or VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. O-Legion Racing, Gainesway Stable (Antony Beck), Sheri Greenberg Racing, Christopher J. Meyer and Jeremiah C. Englehart; B-Go-To-Toga Racing, LLC (NY); T-Jeremiah C. Englehart. That's a nice lookin' #NYbred two-year-old! Enfuega debuts with a comfortable victory at #BelmontAtTheBigA. She was bred by Go-To-Toga Racing. @jockeyfranco up for @jceracingstable, Legion Racing, @Gainesway, Greenberg, and Meyer. pic.twitter.com/bNxrotNpst — NYTB (@nytbreeders) September 28, 2023 The post Flameaway Notches Another Winner With Enfuega appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Santa Anita kicks off its Autumn meet in style this weekend, highlighted by eight graded stakes, including Saturday's GI Awesome Again S., a Breeders' Cup 'Win and You're In' for the Nov. 4 Classic. As is his custom, trainer Bob Baffert is armed with a slew of Classic prospects, however, he confirmed last week that one of the early Classic favorites–GI Pacific Classic scorer Arabian Knight (Uncle Mo)–would bypass this local Breeders' Cup Classic prep. Also missing this weekend's lineup, GI Haskell Invitational winner Geaux Rocket Ride (Candy Ride {Arg}) is expected to train straight up to the Classic, as will GI Whitney S. victor White Abarrio (Race Day). However, despite Arabian Knight's absence, Baffert, who has won this race five times since the re-naming of the Goodwood in 2012, once again looms large, unleashing a pair of Grade I winners–defending champ Defunded (Dialed In) and National Treasure (Quality Road), winner of this season's GI Preakness S. Defunded has shown a strong affinity for The Great RIP, having won there in five of nine starts, including victories in this season's GII Californian and GI Gold Cup. Fourth behind Senor Buscador (Mineshaft) in the GII San Diego H. at Del Mar, Defunded finished sixth behind stablemate Arabian Knight (Uncle Mo) in the 10-furlong Pacific Classic Sept. 2. The 5-year-old appears likely to be kept company on the front end early by Classic winner National Treasure who, along with MGISP Skinner (Curlin), is one of only two sophomores in the field. Runner up in the GI American Pharoah S. at this venue last fall, he rounded out the season with a third in the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile at Keeneland in November. Third in the GIII Sham S. in January and fourth in the Apr. 8 GI Santa Anita Derby, the colt went to the front early and remained tough late to head the ultra-game Blazing Sevens (Good Magic) in the second jewel of the Triple Crown. Wilting to sixth while stretching to 12 furlongs for the GI Belmont June 10, the bay never got into the mix of things-in while in absence of blinkers–in the GI Travers S. over 10 furlongs Aug. 26. In a rider's edition of musical chairs, Juan Hernandez replaces Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez aboard the Classic winner, while Edwin Maldonado, gets the call on Defunded Saturday. Sporting some solid credentials himself, Slow Down Andy (Nyquist) offered a good showing last time out when third, beaten 1 1/2 lengths by Arabian Knight and runner-up Geaux Rocket Ride, in the Pacific Classic and followed up with a second-place effort in the 8 1/2-furlong GII San Diego H. at Del Mar July 29. He was also sixth in the GI Met Mile earlier in June. Victorious in last season's GIII Sunland Derby and the grassy GII Del Mar Derby, the Doug O'Neill trainee rounded out 2022 with a third behind Cody's Wish (Curlin) in the Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile at Keeneland Nov. 5. Also attempting to get back into the winner's circle Saturday, Stilleto Boy (Shackleford) recorded his biggest career score in the GI Santa Anita H. over 1 1/4 miles in March before coming up a head short while cutting back to nine panels in the GII Oaklawn H. the following month. Tiring to sixth in a rerouted renewal of the GI Stephen Foster S., contested at Ellis July 1, the gelding was eased after a problematic start last time out in the Pacific Classic and will try to rebound in this cut back. Trained by Ed Moger, the $420,000 Fasig-Tipton Horses in Training graduate, a winner of last season's GII Californian over this track and trip, has hit the board in six of seven starts at Santa Anita. The post Awesome Start to Santa Anita’s Autumn Meet appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Ace Impact's position at the head of the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (G1) market strengthened Sept. 28 after he was handed stall eight and one of his main market rivals Hukum was drawn out wide in 14 for Sunday's big race in Paris.View the full article

In this series, the TDN takes a look at notable successes of European-based sires in North America. This week's column is highlighted by the victory of Queen Of The Mud during Belmont Park's card at Aqueduct this past weekend. Only Mud Larks Wanted Siena Farm, Michael Kisber, Peter Deutsch, and Stuart Grant's The Elkstone Group's Queen Of The Mud (Ire) (Kodiac {GB}) won at the Belmont at the Big A meet on Thursday (video). Trained by Graham Motion, the daughter of Jawlaat (Ire) (Shamardal) was making her second start after running third at Delaware Park. Bred by McCracken Farms, the bay is a half-sister to G3 Prix Perth hero Facteur Cheval (Ire) (Ribchester {Ire}), who was also placed thrice at the highest level in the Prix du Moulin, Prix d'Ispahan and Sussex S., as well as a weanling colt by Sottsass (Fr). She sold for 45,000gns as a Tattersalls December foal to Yeomanstown Stud, and was picked up by BSW/Crow Euro Venture for 180,000gns as a Tattersalls October Book 2 yearling last autumn. This is the extended family of multiple Group 3 winner Tantheem (GB) (Teofilo {Ire}) and Group 1 winners Tamayuz (GB) (Nayef) and Santiago (Ire) (Authorized {Ire}). Tally-Ho's Kodiac has 91 stakes winners worldwide and 42 at group level. Queen Of The Mud is one of 39 winners from 76 runners (51%) in the U.S., and he has sired seven stakes winners from that batch (9%). #6 Queen of the Mud was the Queen of the turf today! She breaks her maiden in R5 at Belmont for trainer @GrahamMotion with Flavien Prat aboard! #TwinSpiresReplay pic.twitter.com/6kjW41rxcV — TwinSpires Racing (@TwinSpires) September 21, 2023 The post Making Waves: Kodiac’s Queen Reigns In September appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

With Santa Anita Park set to begin its fall meet, fans will be greeted by a pair of all-new state-of-the-art paddock video boards beginning on opening day, Friday, Sept. 29, 1/ST Racing said in a press release late Thursday. Manufactured by US-based Daktronics, the video boards each measure nine feet tall by 16 feet wide. While the previous paddock video boards had a pixel pitch of 15mm, the new boards provide much higher quality viewing, with a finer 6mm one. To view a time-lapse installation click here. Breeders' Cup Stars Ship to The Great RIP Arcangelo (Arrogate), the top-rated horse in the official Breeders' Cup Classic rankings, arrived at Santa Anita Wednesday evening. The GI Belmont and GI Travers winner was bright and alert Thursday morning. That same day, Classic contender MGISW White Abarrio (Race Day) jogged over the Santa Anita main track. The GI Whitney H. hero last worked on Sept. 20 at Santa Anita. As for when he'll return to the tab, assistant Chip Dutrow said Thursday morning, “we'll let him tell us.” In other Breeders' Cup news, four horses on the grounds trained by Steve Asmussen–MGISW Echo Zulu (Gun Runner), MGISW Clairiere (Curlin), MGISW Gunite (Gun Runner) and GISW Society (Gun Runner)–all tack walked, according to assistant Scott Blasi. The post Santa Anita Revving Up For Fall Opening, Arcangelo Arrives For Breeders’ Cup appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Johnny Hassett explained that he will be adopting a different approach to the upcoming breeze-up season after signing for a pair of Sea The Stars (Ire) colts at Book 2 of the Orby Sale, including the €160,000 sale-topper from The Castlebridge Consignment. A brother to German Group 3 winner Alpen Rose, the top lot is from the family of 1,000 Guineas winner Sleepytime (Ire) (Royal Academy), but Hassett is convinced that his new recruit is no slouch and labelled the colt “a belter.” Outlining his new streamlined approach to producing horses for the breeze-ups, Hassett said, “We're spending a little more money on fewer horses this year. We're always trying to up our game, not just in the sales ring but by producing proper racehorses as well.” Hassett, who played a leading role at this sale year 12 months ago when it was known as the Sportsman's Sale, has bought horses under the banner of The Bloodstock Connection and Get In The Game in the past. However, he signed this week under JCH Bloodstock. To go with the Sea The Stars colts purchased to the tune of €228,000 on Thursday, Hassett also picked up fillies by Too Darn Hot (GB) and Wootton Bassett (GB) at Book 1 of the Orby. They were bought for €100,000 and €60,000 respectively. For all that the leading buyer was a familiar one, Goffs will have been encouraged by the wide breadth of international purchasers on day one of Book 2. However, the trade was steady without being spectacular. Of the 236 yearlings to go under the hammer, 181 sold at a clearance rate of 77%. The turnover was down 28% to €4,366,500 comparable to this day last year while the average was also down by 13% to €24,125 and the median fell 16% to €20,000. US Buyers Remain Active At Book 2 Legion Bloodstock, one of US-based buyers who remained active at Book 2, landed a Mastercraftsman (Ire) filly from Coulonces for €75,000. “She's for Hoolie Racing, one of our clients in the US,” reported Legion Bloodstock's Kristian Villante afterwards. “She's a big filly with a lot of scope to her and she could run over intermediate distances for us. She's got a beautiful pedigree. “She'll go to our training centre in South Carolina now. She's our seventh or eighth purchase this week-I'm losing count! They'll all go back to America.” Twomey To The Fore Once Again Paddy Twomey pulled a rabbit out of the hat when sending out One Look (Ire) (Gleneagles {Ire}), purchased at this sale for €65,000 12 months ago, to win the Goffs Million on debut. The leading Irish trainer will be hoping to repeat the trick with a racy colt by Mehams (Ire) who he purchased from Tally-Ho Stud for the same figure. “He's a nice colt and looks a real two-year-old type,” said Twomey. “I'm a big fan of the sire and I've been lucky at this sale in recent years.” Buy of the day One of the nicest horses through the ring on the day was the Mohaather (GB) colt consigned by Abbey House Farm and sold to Diego Dias on behalf of Star Bloodstock and Byron Rogers for €70,000. Out of a Teofilo (Ire) mare who has produced a winner from as many runners, the 82-rated Rajindri (Ire) (Profitable {Ire}), this colt came in well above the average for the sale but time might prove him to have been good value. For a start, the progeny of Mohaather appears to have been quite well received by the market and this colt looked a fine model by the stallion. Being critical, he lacked a small bit of size but, being a May foal, one can expect that he isn't finished growing. Above all else, he looked fast, which is handy given the outfit he has joined. In short, the Mohaather won't look expensive come the spring if he rockets up the track at any of the recognised breeze-up sales. He's definitely one to keep an eye on going forward. At working man prices, Barry Lynch and James McHale bagged themselves a nice filly in the shape of lot 597, a Coulsty (Ire) for €31,000. A nice type, the Coulsty looked typically-racy and hailed from the same cross as the sire's only Group 1 winner, Shantisara (Ire) [who is also out of a Dalakhani (Ire) mare]. Purchased by two good operators, it would be no surprise if she also proved herself to be value in time. The post Hassett Reveals Change In Breeze-Up Focus After 160k Buy At Orby Book 2 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article