Wandering Eyes

Marton visitor Captains Run (NZ) (Nom du Je) proved his eye-catching run for second in last week’s Koral Steeplechase (4250m) was just what he needed as he went one better to capture the 150th running of the Racecourse Hotel & Motor Lodge Grand National Steeplechase (5600m) at Riccarton on Saturday. Billed as a two-horse war between favourite Jesko (NZ) (Atlante), who had won the Koral the week before and West Coast (NZ) (Mettre En Jeu) who was looking for his fourth win in the event, the unpredictability of racing came to the fore throughout the contest. While co-trainer and pilot Shaun Fannin was happy to take up the pacemaking duties throughout on the $1.80 race favourite Jesko, he was accompanied by outsider Hey Hey Hey (NZ) (Shocking ) after 1000m who niggled away at him throughout. West Coast, with visiting rider Willie McCarthy aboard, sat back in fourth and was travelling comfortably under his 73kg topweight when he had a life at fence with just on a lap to run which took the sting out of his challenge. While this was all happening rider Joshua Parker had Captains Run relaxed in fourth before inching into contention with three fences left to clear. Jesko shook off Hey Hey Hey at the second last and went for gold, however Captain Run stalked him along the inner and put his head in front turning for home. Safely over the last fence he strode away to win by an increasing seven length margin from a gallant Jesko, with Nedwin (NZ) (Niagara) further back in third. Trainer Dan O’Leary was beaming with pride after he greeted his charge back at the Riccarton birdcage. “That was a huge thrill as this is such a time honoured race,” O’Leary said. “It is the 150th year and there are not a lot of sporting occasions in New Zealand that have that history, so to win it now is just so special. “Josh rode a beautiful race and it all worked out well as he (Captains Run) jumped good and travelled well. “The horse improved from last week and I thought he would be better today.” O’Leary is no stranger to big-race success having co-owned Gr.1 Auckland Cup (3200m) and Gr.1 Sydney Cup (3200m) winner Who Shot Thebarman, who also was placed in a Gr.1 Melbourne Cup (3200m), alongside his three brothers. “I thought when Who Shot Thebarman won the Auckland Cup, our whole family was there and we had a wonderful day,” he said. “When he ran third in the Melbourne Cup it was even bigger but this one also rates as a pretty special day.” A mud spattered Parker was finding it hard to put into words what the victory meant to him. “I’m finding it hard to describe how I feel, but it is the best feeling in the world,” he said. “He just jumped superbly and has gone an amazing race as he just ran his heart out. “Dan said just don’t let go of him until the end and this time I didn’t. “What a horse as he looks a picture and the team at home have done a wonderful job. “His jumping ability is so good as his jumps are so sleek. “I was told to be on the inside rail and that’s what I did and it just worked out for us. “You can’t beat this feeling; there’s nothing like it.” Bred and raced by O’Leary and his wife Jane, Captains Run was adding just the second victory to his career record, which also includes 14 placings and now over $234,000 in prizemoney.” View the full article

Lightly-raced six-year-old mare Jennivamoose (NZ) (Vadamos) scored a comfortable victory in the Donnellans The Tyremen Handicap (2500m) at The Valley on Saturday under a patient Harry Coffey ride. Prepared by Ciaron Maher for Tony and Lynn Ottobre’s Cape Schanck Racing, Jennivamoose was dropped out to near the rear of the field by Coffey but quickened readily when asked. The daughter of Vadamos looped the field and ran out a length and a quarter winner over fellow Kiwi breds Bluestone (NZ) (Reliable Man) and Flamin’ Romans (NZ) (Ghibellines). “It was a class ride,” Assistant Trainer Jack Turnbull said. “They didn’t go that hard either so I was a little bit worried, but she picked up when he asked her and she was strong through the line. “It was a very good win. She ran a really good race here a long time ago when trained by Andrew Noblet where she was beaten by one of ours, so it was good to see her repeat the effort at the same venue today. “She was off the scene with an injury but we got her in great order and she flicks between Cranbourne and Tony Ottobre’s property at Cape Schanck where they do a wonderful job with her. “She had such good colour to her today, was very fit and clearly she has got an affinity with this track. “We have aspirations to get to better races and this is all part of it so we won’t step out of our mark too much but we can go to an 84 somewhere in the next three or four weeks and then progress to better races.” The winner of four of her 13 starts with a further three-placings, Jennivamoose has won A$183,950 in prizemoney to date. Purchased as a yearling at Karaka by Ottobre from the draft of Rich Hill Stud for $110,000, Jennivamoose is out of the High Chaparral mare So Ard. Bred by Brisbane-based Rick Hill, So Ard is domiciled at Rich Hill Stud near Matamata and the mare is a half-sister to Gr.1 Irish Oaks (2400m) winner Even So and comes from a Group One winning family that features English Derby winner Dr Devious, The Oaks winner Dancing Rain, Guineas winner Saxon Warrior, and Takamatsunomiya Kinen winner Suzuka Phoenix. Jennivamoose is a half-sister to the five-win mare Bozo (NZ) (Satono Aladdin), who finished fourth in the Gr.1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m) in her Classic year. View the full article

Bevan and Robyn Wilson were disappointed their trio of runners didn’t feature in last week’s Gr.3 Winter Cup (1600m), but they got a consolation prize at Riccarton Park seven days later. The Ashburton couple returned to the Christchurch venue on Saturday with Lord Darci (NZ) (Darci Brahma) and Victorian Charm (NZ) (Charm Spirit) to contest the Stephanie Murray Mortgages Open Handicap (1400m), and got the perfect result, securing the quinella with the pair. Lord Darci drew the outside gate in the eight-horse field and settled at the rear of the field for apprentice jockey Yogesh Atchamah, with race favourite Bradman (NZ) (Pins) setting the pace upfront. Atchamah bided his time before presenting his charge on the extreme outside when turning for home, with Lord Darci running over the top of his rivals to score a one length victory over stablemate Victorian Charm. Atchamah was pleased to get the win and he was confident of the result a long way out. “At the 600m I had plenty of horse under me and I saw everyone was under pressure,” he said. “He was cruising under me, that is why I was waiting for the right moment to ask him to go. He loves a wet track.” Bevan Wilson had been pleased with the former Winter Cup winner’s sixth-placed performance last week, but said the Group Three mile came up a week too soon, which was reflected in Saturday’s winning result. “He went pretty well the other day, but he had a bit of a setback going into that and it probably just came up a bit early for him this time,” he said. “It is good they bounced back. They all went well the other day.” The Wilsons haven’t mapped out further assignments post Saturday’s run, but they haven’t ruled out heading into spring with the energetic eight-year-old. “I think he can go through a spring,” Wilson said. “His form is definitely better on the loose heavy, but on a softer track in the spring he will be alright. “We are always day-to-day with him. He is a sound horse, but he just gets himself into trouble every now and again. He is a very active horse. Hopefully there is another year or two yet (with him).” Saturday’s victory was the sixth of Lord Darci’s career, highlighted by his win in the 2022 edition of the Winter Cup, and it boosted his career earnings past the $200,000 mark. View the full article

Trainer Ken Kelso was wearing a wide smile as he left Te Rapa racecourse on Saturday afternoon after witnessing his two stable stars provide him with suitable evidence they are both on target to kick off their Spring campaigns in fine fashion. He and wife Bev lined up Alabama Lass and Legarto in the 1050m open class trial with rider Lynsey Satherley never letting Alabama Lass out of second gear as she led all the way to defeat Ardalio and Sacred Satono, while stayer Sharp N Smart shaded Legarto for fourth as they made up good ground in the closing stages. Kelso has his sights set on a Melbourne raid for Alabama Lass who closed her three-year-old year in late March with a victory in the Listed Moomba Plate (1100m) at Flemington in the hands of Craig Williams. He is delighted with how the now four-year-old mare has come back a bigger and better specimen for the new season. “That was a very nice trial as she has really grown and thickened up during the break and looks fantastic,” Kelso said. “I got Lynsey to ride her today as she had ridden her in a trial before the Railway (Gr.1, 1200m) last year so had some knowledge of her. She came back in and couldn’t believe how much she had developed. “She (Alabama Lass) did exactly what we wanted and I think we will follow Plan A which is to take her to Melbourne to tackle the Moir Stakes (Gr.1, 1000m) at The Valley first up on 6 September. “There is a bit of water to go under the bridge but at this stage it is likely Craig Williams will take the ride on her again. “We are thinking if she goes well we might stay on and tackle the Manikato (Gr.1, 1200m) three weeks later, but that is only a thought at this stage.” Kelso was also satisfied with Legarto who settled near last for rider Vinnie Colgan and made up good ground in the final 400m. “Legarto needed the run and she will have an exhibition gallop, or possibly a trial, before we take her to Ellerslie for the Proisir Plate (Gr.1, 1400m) on the 6th of September,” he said. “The plan with her is to tackle the three races of the Spring Triple Crown which has two legs at Ellerslie this year. The money is very good and she will appreciate stepping up in distance over the series. “Some might say she doesn’t go as well at Ellerslie as she has only won one of her four starts there, but the other three races saw her run second to Desert Lightning in the Aotearoa Classic, second to El Vencedor in the Bonecrusher (Gr.1, 2000m) along with finishing third in the New Zealand Breeders’ Stakes (Gr.1, 1600m). “There are plenty who would be well satisfied with a record like that.” With renovations making the Hastings track unavailable to host the traditional Spring Triple Crown, the Gr.1 Prosier Plate, Gr.1 Howden Insurance Mile (1600m) and Gr.1 Livamol Classic (2040m) will be held at Ellerslie on 6 September, Te Rapa on 27 September and Ellerslie on 18 October, respectively. View the full article

Veteran hurdler Suliman (NZ) (Redwood) turned back the clock to his former glory days when he proved toughest in a four-horse war at the finish of the Hospitality NZ Canterbury Grand National Hurdles (4200m) at Riccarton. The twelve-year-old gelding has both an Awapuni Hurdles (2800m) and Wellington Hurdle (3400m) under his belt along with a Taumarunui Gold Cup (2200m) victory on the flat but had mixed his form in recent times after resuming following a year off after a bleeding attack suffered during the 2023 edition of the Grand National Hurdles. Suliman became trainers Paul Nelson and Corrina McDougal and owners the I See Red Syndicate’s only runner in the event, when their pre-post favourite Dictation was withdrawn during the week after suffering a minor injury following his Sydenham Hurdles (3100m) on the first day of the Carnival. Jockey Matthew Gillies, who was to partner Dictation (NZ) (Tavistock) in the contest until his withdrawal, set up a sharp pace on the Kevin Myers-trained Happy Star (NZ) (Fabulous) from outsider Mr Fabulous (NZ) (Fabulous), Mr Fahrenheit (NZ) (Zed) and Suliman while the hot favourite Berry The Cash (NZ) (Jakkalberry), second favourite Quid (NZ) (Rios) and Lord Spencer (NZ) (Zed) were back several lengths on the very testing Heavy 0 surface. Things began to get serious with 1200m to run as Mr Fahrenheit dropped off when Mr Fabulous tackled Happy Star to turn the contest into a true staying test. Rounding the turn Happy Star was still in front but Suliman and rider Hamish McNeill were hot in pursuit alongside Mr Fabulous while Quid and Berry The Cash chased gamely several lengths adrift. Mr Fabulous threatened a massive upset when he hit the front after jumping the last, however Suliman closed resolutely to hit the lead with 100m to run before holding off a charging Quid by a nose with Happy Star and Mr Fabulous next over the line as less than a length covered the first four at the end of the gruelling 4200m. Nelson was shaking his head a little with the final result after thinking Suliman may have been beaten in the shadows of the post. “I was a little bit doubtful that he had got there although I got assured he had pretty quickly,” Nelson said. “That was just great. The track being as bad as it was helped him, as when he won the Wellington Hurdles the track was horrible and he just kept going. “Unfortunately, he missed a year last year but it is bloody lucky that he has come back. “Any race win is good but a National is just wonderful. “The syndicate who race this guy have been with me for twenty years. It was a shame for them when Dictation came out but this will have fixed that.” An ecstatic McNeill was nearly lot for words as he described the finish where he dropped his whip shortly after clearing the last obstacle. “I dropped my stick after the last and I was cursing myself when I saw them coming down the outside,” he said. “I’m not too sure which way the camera angle goes here, so I’m a bit lost for words. “As soon as the rain came (over the past 24 hours) I thought he and Quid would be the ones to beat. “To do it for Paul is very special as we have had a close association.” Suliman has now won eleven of his 64 starts, with five of those over the hurdle fences, and now more than $342,000 in prizemoney. View the full article

Caley Myers has been a frequent visitor to Riccarton Park’s Grand National Festival of Racing, campaigning her father Kevin Myers’ team, but on Saturday it was her name in the result sheet as a winning trainer, courtesy of Duke Of Plumpton (NZ) (Bachelor Duke). The veteran campaigner was previously trained by part-owners Kevin Myers and Patrick Payne on their respective sides of the Tasman, but he was entrusted to Caley’s care earlier this year to help bolster her growing racing team. He was a welcome addition to Myers’ newly established Palmerston North stable, having already won seven races on the flat and one over hurdles, with close to $250,000 in earnings. With an eye to a future over hurdles, the son of Bachelor Duke had two flat runs before placing in his first hurdle test for Myers at Te Rapa last month, and he was kept up to the mark with a flat run at Waverley before heading south to Riccarton. Myers elected to bypass the opening day of the carnival with her charge, and she was hopeful of a bold showing in Saturday’s Speight’s Ultra On Tap 0-1 Win Hurdles (3100m). With just four other rivals, jockey Corey Wiles kept Duke Of Plumpton handy throughout, sitting just off his brother Kylan on pacemaker Doctor Iris (NZ) (Mongolian Khan). Duke of Plumpton jumped well and struck the lead turning for home. He continued to increase his advantage over his rivals, eventually running out a 14-length victor over Doctor Iris, with race favourite Hidalgo (NZ) (Pure Champion), the only other finisher, back in third. Wiles was rapt with Duke Of Plumpton’s performance, and he believes the 10-year-old gelding has a great jumping future instore. “It was a good race, Kylan set the tempo well and I sat behind and cruised behind him,” he said. “At about the 600 or 700m I thought I still had a lot of horse under me and he cruised to the front. He is an awesome horse. “He has jumped enormous. We are really happy with the horse and Caley has done a great job.” Myers was pleased to get her first win with Duke Of Plumpton and continue the family’s legacy, with the gelding carrying her father’s colours. “It was a good effort,” she said. “He is rather consistent. If he likes you, he likes you, but if you don’t get along with him, he doesn’t help you very much. “I have had a lot of help along the way from Mum and Dad and Jason and Luke (brothers) school the horse for me.” Myers hasn’t set a plan in stone with Duke Of Plumpton, but said his next test will likely be much closer to home. “We will just get home and go from there,” she said. “We might look to go to Hawera” View the full article

Ozara has a long way to go to match Fourstardave or even Casa Creed as a Saratoga Race Course legend, but she is certainly moving in the right direction. View the full article

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JAL Racing's Doncho not only picked up an allowance-optional claiming race victory Aug. 8 at Ellis Park, he also established a North American record in completing 5 1/2 furlongs in :59.75 on firm turf.View the full article

Race 10 GROUP 1 RACEDAY PARTY – 13 SEPTEMBER 1800m STORMS AHEAD (T Comignaghi) –Trainer Ms. S Faulkner advised Stewards, that blood tests taken from STORMS AHEAD on Monday, 4 August, revealed the presence of a slight virus, with no signs of tying-up. The gelding will have a week off before continuing with his current campaign. The post Canterbury Jockey Club @ Riccarton Park, Saturday 2 August 2025 appeared first on Racing Integrity Board. View the full article

A horse for course at Saratoga is a good thing to have, and that's exactly what the Miguel Clement stable has as Ozara (Ire) (Lope de Vega {Ire}) cruised home to collect the GII Ballston Spa Stakes. While her three wins from as many starts at the New York mecca will be a popular point, Ozara entered into the race with three victories already to her name this year alone–the two in Florida were against optional claiming company Jan. 3 at Tampa Bay Downs and Apr. 26 at Gulfstream Park in the Monroe Stakes. She had to settled for the last trifecta spot two back June 14 at Monmouth Park when she tried her fortunes in the GIII Eatontown Stakes, and was well-beaten by GSW Whiskey Decision (Into Mischief) and that one's stablemate, Argentinian Group 1-placed Maggie Go (Arg) (Winning Prize {Arg}); both of whom returned here for trainer Chad Brown. She redeemed that defeat last out July 10 in the local De La Rose Stakes when she overhauled Spinning Colors (Hard Spun) in the final yards to win by a half-length. Sent off here carrying 7-2 odds as the betting dollars drifted the way of Deep Satin (American Pharoah) at 5-2 favoritism, she broke well but was eased off the pace to track from fourth as Edict (Arg) (Il Campione {Chi}) was sent out to set the tempo through :23, :46.69, and 1:10.33 splits. Saving ground as she inched closer to that early leader, she was asked for more outside the quarter pole but had to muscle the betting choice over to nudging her way to clear running as they entered upper stretch. Wrestling command away passing the sixteenth pole, she strolled home with ears pricked to win by 1 1/2 lengths over Deep Satin, who valiantly held on to second in a photo with No Mo Candy (Uncle Mo). “She's based here, and she got into a great momentum here and was able to raise it to another level,” said Clement afterwards. “…I guess Saratoga suits her by having so much tactical speed. Today, they were rolling–46 and change–and she was always traveling strong on the bridle. Short stretch, a bit speed-favoring and that's her type of game.” When asked about a potential start in the GI First Lady Stakes Oct. 4 at Keeneland, Clement said, “You have to think about it. You have the Grade I at Keeneland potentially–or at the end of the year the [GI] Matriarch [Stakes, at Del Mar]. Look at the historical stats of what De La Rose winners have done in the Matriarch recently. It's food for thought. Let's just enjoy it and see how she comes out of it.” OZARA levels up! She earns back-to-back stakes wins and her first graded stakes score in the G2 Ballston Spa with @DavisJockey up for trainer @clementstable. pic.twitter.com/EPjk08qbYb — NYRA () (@TheNYRA) August 8, 2025 Pedigree Notes: Ozara is heiress apparent to a fabulous female line as her dam is a half-sister to not only the mighty multiple Group 1 winner Golden Horn (GB) (Cape Cross {Ire}), but also to SW-Eng, MGSP Eastern Belle (GB) (Champs Elysees {GB}). The aforementioned sister has gained fame via the exploits of her sons–multiple Group winner Megallan (GB) (Kingman {GB}) and SW & GSP-Eng Glittering Legend (GB) (Too Darn Hot {GB}). Dam Cercle d'Or (Ire) (Acclamation {GB}) has produced one other winner before Ozara, a 5-year-old gelding named Laser Guided (Ire) (Kingman {GB}). After the victress, she has an unraced 3-year-old filly in Australia named Kalgoorlie Girl (Aus) (Frankel {GB}) as well as a juvenile colt by Maurice (Jpn). Her most recent on the ground is a 2025 full-sister to Ozara. The second dam Fleche d'Or (Dubai Destination) claims her fair share of successful siblings as the half-sister to English Group 1 winner Rebecca Sharp (GB) (Machiavellian); English Group winner Mystic Knight (GB) (Caerleon); and Listed winner and multiple Group-placed Hidden Hope (GB) (Daylami {Ire}). Friday, Saratoga BALLSTON SPA S.-GII, $300,000, Saratoga, 8-8, 4yo/up, f/m, 1 1/16mT, 1:39.65, fm. 1–OZARA (IRE), 122, f, 4, by Lope de Vega (Ire) 1st Dam: Cercle d'Or (Ire), by Acclamation (GB) 2nd Dam: Fleche d'Or (GB), by Dubai Destination 3rd Dam: Nuryana (GB), by Nureyev 1ST GRADED STAKES WIN. (350,000gns Ylg '22 TATOCT). O-Cheyenne Stable LLC; B-Fleche D'Or Partnership (Ire); T-Miguel Clement; J-Dylan Davis. $165,000. Lifetime Record: 13-7-2-2, $598,257. Werk Nick Rating: A+. Click for the eNicks report & 5-cross pedigree. Click for the free Equineline.com catalogue-style pedigree. 2–Deep Satin, 122, f, 4, American Pharoah–Take the Ribbon, by Chester House. 1ST GRADED BLACK TYPE. O-John D. Gunther and Eurowest Bloodstock Services; B-Eurowest Bloodstock Services (KY); T-Cherie DeVaux. $60,000. 3–No Mo Candy, 120, f, 4, Uncle Mo–Sweet, by Blame. ($80,000 Ylg '22 KEESEP). O-Niall J. Brennan and Michael J. Ryan; B-Claiborne Farm (KY); T-Saffie A. Joseph, Jr. $36,000. Margins: 1HF, HD, 1HF. Odds: 3.60, 2.65, 8.20. Also Ran: Whiskey Decision, Edict (Arg), Maggie Go (Arg), Ocean Club. Scratched: Amanda's Folly, Be Your Best (Ire), Bernietakescharge, Freedom Speaks, Just Music. Click for the Equibase.com chart and the TJCIS.com PPs. VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. The post Ozara Continues Love Affair With Saratoga, Confidently Scores in Ballston Spa appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

6th-Saratoga, $80,000, (R), Msw, 8-8, 2yo, 6f, 1:12.64, ft, 1 1/2 lengths. AYE EYE (c, 2, Essential Quality–Divine Queen {MSW, $339,344}, by Divine Park) might have touched 500-1 if there were in-play wagering on American racing, but turned in a rally for the ages to graduate going away at first asking. Dismissed as the longest shot on the board ad 26-1, the gray colt walked out of the gate and at the end of the first two furlongs, was nearly 20 lengths behind pacesetting favorite Escape Hall (Independence Hall). Still well out of the picture as the rest of the field rounded the turn, the February foal finally made an appearance, but still had a dozen lengths to find at the head of the stretch. Gradually working his way into it approaching midstretch, with a daunting task still ahead, Aye Eye dove down to the inside, prompting an incredulous Frank Mirahmadi to exclaim 'could that be Aye Eye?' and he maintained the gallop to the line for a highly improbable score. The second winner for his freshman sire (by Tapit), Aye Eye is out of a daughter of SW Town Queen (Williamstown), also the dam of SW & GSP Queen's Award (Medaglia d'Oro). Divine Queen has a yearling colt by Life Is Good and was covered by both Twirling Candy and McKinzie this year. Sales history: $140,000 RNA Ylg '24 KEESEP; $45,000 2yo '25 EASMAY. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $44,000. Click for the Equibase.com chart or VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. O-Robert Cotran; B-Betz Thoroughbreds/DJ Stables/Graves/Gainesway/Lamantia/Ramsby (KY); T-Joseph F Orseno. You HAVE to see this Nobody had an eye on AYE EYE… until he blew past them all at 26-1 in a late rally you have to see to believe! @jjcjockey was aboard for trainer Joseph Orseno. pic.twitter.com/V2ifFFh7oK — NYRA () (@TheNYRA) August 8, 2025 The post Essential Quality Colt Aye Eye Comes From The Clouds–Or Beyond–To Win First Time Out appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — There a was an easy-to-embrace educational angle to Deep Learning (Cairo Prince)'s victory in the third race Friday at Saratoga Race Course. In her career debut Klaravich Stables' 2-year-old filly dealt with some bumping exiting the gate leaving her a bit farther off the early pace than trainer Chad Brown expected. With a patient ride by Flavien Prat and an impressive finish, Deep Learning scored by 3 1/4 lengths over Beach Ballad (Omaha Beach). She completed the 1 1/16 miles $100,000 maiden special weight contest on the inner turf course in 1:42.50 and paid $6.70 as the 2-1 favorite. After the slowish start, Deep Learning was sixth, some eight lengths back, in the first run through the stretch while Beach Ballad was setting early fractions of :24.08 and :48.61. Prat guided the filly to an inside trip, took her to the outside at the three-sixteenths pole and she finished with resolve, passed the pacesetter near sixteenth pole and kept rolling. “I was hoping she wouldn't be too far away, and they should be saving ground,” Brown said. “She accomplished a bunch of things today. Not only did she win, but she was able to learn something traveling behind horses and such and waiting.” Brown purchased the filly out of Dovima by Union Rags for $325,000 at the OBS April 2-year-old sale. “We don't buy that much there,” owner Seth Klarman said, “but he thought she kind of looked really great, and maybe (was by) a little bit of an off sire for what people were looking for. He said she always impressed him. Chad is just amazing with turf horses. Flavien gave her a brilliant ride. Very fortunate today.” Brown said there were a few factors in the purchase: an impressive breeze at the sale and that she was handled by consignor Eddie Woods, who retired this spring. “I bought so many great horses off him, including Lady Eli, and many others that he either sold me or just sent to me that he had through his program,” Brown said. “I loved buying his horses. I've loved receiving his horses through the years. So that was a big plus for me, after I saw her work. “She reminded me of some of the better 2-year-old prospects I've gotten out of 2-year-old sales in the past, so we pulled the trigger. I'm fortunate enough to have the backing of Mr. Seth Klarman, who really lets me sort of direct traffic up front of what direction we're going and what prospects we're looking at.” Bred by Tony Dardis, Dell Ridge Farm, Ken Donworth and Desmond Ryan, her dam was trained by Brown, but he said he didn't make the connection until after he had already decided she was a prospect to purchase. Brown said that he probably will give Deep Learning some time to recover from the maiden score and point her toward the GII Miss Grillo Stakes on Oct. 6. That race is part of the Breeders' Cup Challenge Series with a berth in the GI Juvenile Fillies' Turf up for grabs. Deep Learning was Klaravich's meet-leading sixth victory. Typically, Klarman gives his horses names connected to finance, so Deep Learning is a bit different. “I would say it's an AI term,” he said. “It's sort of the idea of how they train the AI models. I'm just always looking for words that go together that sound like a racehorse.” The post Saratoga Maidens Presented By Keeneland: Deep Learning Passed Her Tests In Saratoga Maiden Special appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Hall of Fame trainer Mark Casse needed a very good reason to miss next weekend's prestigious $1-million Listed King's Plate at Woodbine. Actually, he has two of them. Casse will miss Canada's oldest thoroughbred horse race–one has won three times–because he's staying in Saratoga to try and win the $600,000 GI Alabama Stakes for the first time. He will be well represented by La Cara (Street Sense) and Nitrogen (Medaglia d'Oro) in Saratoga's premier race for 3-year-old fillies. The King's Plate at Woodbine and Alabama are both being run next Saturday. La Cara, who has had a up and down summer at Saratoga, had her final Alabama work Friday morning, going four furlongs on the main track in :49.77 (28/52) with regular exercise rider Mary Rose Hitt on board. “She went perfect,” Casse said outside his barn on the Saratoga backstretch. “She is always that way. The crazy thing is that she could go in 46 and still do it effortlessly. I told Mary to go in about 50 and she went in 49.3 so that is pretty good.” Hitt has been La Cara's partner all summer. She has also exercised her as a 2-year-old and out in California last year for the Breeders' Cup. “I love riding her,” Hitt said after the work. “She loves to train; she knows her job and you always know what you're going to get with her. Every work, you are sitting against her the whole time. She always wants to do more.” La Cara won the GI Acorn Stakes at Saratoga on June 6 and was being pointed to the GI Coaching Club American Oaks on July 19. She was the 8-5 morning-line favorite in that race, but a quarantine placed on her barn because of a case of strangles on another horse put the kybosh on that. Casse then refocused and pointed La Cara, owned by bred by Tracy Framer, to the Alabama. “The quarantine was definitely a crazy deal,” Casse said. La Cara has won three of five starts this year. She also won the GI Ashland. A win in the Alabama would put her squarely in front of the division. She also ran in the GI Kentucky Oaks but tired over the sloppy Churchill Downs strip after setting the pace. She performed much better on the Saratoga slop in the Acorn when she led from gate-to-wire and won by three lengths. Casse will have two horses–Ashley's Archer (ON) (Karakontie {Jpn}) and filly No Time (ON) (Not This Time)–in the King's Plate. “I have to be here,” Casse said about staying for the Alabama. “The Alabama is a race I have been dreaming about since I was a little boy.” Motion Will be at Colonial Saturday, but will Have an Eye Toward Saratoga Laurelin | Sarah Andrew It will be a busy day for trainer Graham Motion Saturday as he has horses running in stakes races at Colonial Downs, Del Mar and Saratoga. He has chosen to be in Virginia where he has horses entered in the GII $500,000 Secretariat Stakes (End of Romance (Ire) (Showcasing {GB}) and GII $500,000 Beverly D. Stakes (Beach Bomb (SAf) (Lancaster Bomber). At Del Mar, Motion will be represented by Heredia (GB) (Dark Angel {Ire}) in the GII, $200,000 Yellow Ribbon Handicap. He'll also be keeping a close watch on the GII, $500,000 Saratoga Oaks Invitational on the Mellon Turf Course where his undefeated Laurelin (Ire) (Zarak {Fr}) is the headliner. Owned by Newstead Stables LLC, Laurelin is the 9-5 morning-line favorite in the field of six and will be ridden by Kendrick Carmouche. Laurelin has won all four of her starts and will be trying the 1 3/16-mile distance for the first time. Her last three wins have come at a mile “Nothing makes me think that she shouldn't handle it,” Motion said by phone from Virginia Friday afternoon. “Pedigree…the way she trains.” Laurelin has won three ungraded stakes in her career, the latest being the Penn Oaks at Penn National on June 27. Before that, Motion had toyed with the idea of taking her to England for the Royal Ascot meet. “I really thought about it, but I kind of got cold feet about it,” he said. “I always thought she was of that quality. Once we did not go to England, I wanted to keep things conservative with races like these in mind for the summer.” Motion gives credit to trainer Jamie Osborne, who had Laurelin in England and prepared her to come over to the states from the 2023 Goffs Orby Yearling Sale. When she came to Motion, she showed immediate talent, winning both her starts as a 2-year-old. “(Osborne) had suggested she was of good quality,” Motion said. “And she really has been a pleasure. She hasn't skipped a beat. We liked her as much as any 2-year-old we had last year, and she has proven to be the real deal.” Shug Looking for a Million Hall of Fame trainer Shug McGaughey has never won the GI Arlington Million, which will be run at Colonial Downs for the third straight year following the closing of Arlington Park. He might have his best chance to get it this year as he is sending two horses to Virginia from his base in Saratoga. Integration (Quality Road), owned by West Point Thoroughbreds and Woodford Racing LLC, is the 8-5 morning-line favorite and Magic Cap Stables' Fort Washington (War Front) is 4-1 in the field of eight. Integration, who will be ridden by Hall of Famer John Velazquez, has won three of four starts at Colonial, but McGaughey said that is not why he shipped the 5-year-old. “I've had this on my mind for a while,” he said outside his barn at the Oklahoma Training Track Friday morning. “He likes Colonial, but he has run good everywhere. He has been training good, he is fresh, so let's see what happens.” Integration has run four times this year without a win. But he has been oh, so close. In his last start, he was defeated by Deterministic (Liam's Map) by a head in the GI Manhattan at Saratoga on June 8. Earlier this year, he lost the GI Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational by a neck to Spirit of St. Louis (Medaglia d'Oro). For his career, Integration has five wins, four seconds and a third in 14 stats. Last year, he was second in the Arlington Million, losing by 1 3/4 lengths to Nations Pride (Ire) (Teofilo {Ire}) by 1 3/4 lengths. Nations Pride is running in the GI, $750,000 Sword Dancer at Saratoga Saturday. “He deserves to win one of these,” McGaughey said of Integration. McGaughey will stay in Saratoga on Saturday. His son, Reeve, will be in Virginia to saddle the horses. The post Saratoga Notebook, presented by NYRA Bets: La Cara “Perfect” Heading into Next Weekend’s Alabama appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

There is a lot of alliteration surrounding the co-feature event at Colonial Downs Aug. 9. While Be Your Best brings the credentials to be the likely favorite, Beach Bomb boasts the brilliance to beware of in the Beverly D. Stakes (G2T). View the full article

Purchased privately following a maiden win, last year's overachieving Debutante S. winner and GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies runner-up Vodka With a Twist (Thousand Words) hit the board in five straight graded stakes races for trainer Phil D'Amato in Southern California beginning with the GIII Sorrento S. at Del Mar. Taylor Made's Medallion Racing will look to follow a similar blueprint with impressive Laurel Park debut winner Dreaming of Alys (Upstart), who will face five rivals, led by the Bob Baffert-trained 'TDN Rising Star' Himika (Curlin), going six furlongs in Sunday's Sorrento. Dreaming of Alys was acquired privately by Medallion Racing, Agave Racing Stable and Evan Trommer and transferred to D'Amato after shooting up the rail in the stretch en route to a 4 3/4-length victory for Non Stop Stable and London Reid Thoroughbreds and trainer Gary Capuano going 5 1/2 furlongs at Laurel Park June 13. She earned a 62 Beyer Speed Figure for the effort. Medallion Racing, BlackRidge Stables, Schwing Thoroughbreds, Omar Aldabbagh and William Strauss campaign the aforementioned Vodka With a Twist, who has posted a career record of 10-2-4-2 and earnings of $723,350. “Because of the success of Vodka last year, it just made us look for a horse that we could have a similar angle with,” Medallion Racing Manager Phillip Shelton said. “There are smaller fields (in California) and you have a big opportunity to have a shot to hit the board in a graded stake. Frankly, if we run third, we're in a great spot financially. It's a good opportunity to try.” Dreaming of Alys, a $45,000 Keeneland September graduate, was bred in Kentucky by WinStar Farm. Her on-the-rise sire Upstart is responsible for six graded/21 stakes winners worldwide. She was produced by the unplaced Street Sense mare Grammajo, a half-sister to stakes winners Blue Heart (Exchange Rate) and Financial Recovery (Street Cry {Ire}). Grammajo brought $57,000 from Chad Schumer, agent, carrying a full sister to Dreaming of Alys at the 2023 KEENOV sale. This is also the extended female family of champion sprinter Housebuster. “She was a bit green the whole way, then started to piece it together,” Shelton said of her debut. “The second that happened, she drew away and really leveled off. I liked the way she did it. She's an Upstart, he's obviously had a great year. She should get better with distance. She's got a good pedigree and is very attractive physically. We're hoping two turns. To step up to six (furlongs) is gonna be good, a step up to seven (furlongs) will be even better. I think this filly will have an opportunity to be a 3-year-old, too. She's got enough scope, size and pedigree to make you think so.” Dreaming of Alys has posted five workouts for D'Amato, including a five-furlong move in :59.40 (6/65) at Del Mar Aug. 3. She's listed as the third choice at 7-2 on the morning line in the Sorrento. Antonio Fresu will ride. “They've been happy with her,” Shelton said. “The biggest question is, how does she fit? Baffert obviously has the Curlin filly that's probably the top of the group out there (in California).” Shelton concluded, “We're excited to see her run. I'd be lying if I said we weren't hoping to do another Vodka With a Twist.” The post Another Shot of ‘Vodka’ for Medallion Racing in Sorrento Stakes appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

by Stefanie Grimm & Alan Carasso For the first time in it's 24-year history, Virginia's Colonial Downs will play host to a Kentucky Derby winner as 2024 winner Mystik Dan (Goldencents) will make his turf debut in Saturday's 1 1/4-mile GI Arlington Million. Trainer Kenny McPeek has had his eye on the turf for his Derby winner for quite some time, telling the TDN this week that the idea had been on his mind for at least a year. “It was kind of an audible at the line of scrimmage,” McPeek told the TDN's Tim Wilkin Wednesday at Saratoga. “He was doing really well and the (Million) seems to be modest in depth. We decided to put him in.” The rail-drawn Mystik Dan will line up against seven rivals Saturday, each of whom has a plethora of prior turf experience. But McPeek isn't worried, saying, “Good horses will run on anything. We are going to prove it Saturday.” Perhaps his strongest challenge will come from the widest gate as horse-for-course and 8-5 morning-line favorite Integration (Quality Road) returns to the scene of his early success. The 5-year-old broke his maiden on the Secretariat turf course in August 2023 and came right back in his next start to take the GIII Virginia Derby for Shug McGaughey. Returning for the 2024 summer meet, he added a win in the listed Million Preview Stakes before having to settle for second behind MGISW Nation's Pride (Ire) (Teofilo {Ire}) in the Million itself one year ago. And while he hasn't visited the winner's circle in taking the GII Red Smith Stakes at Aqueduct late last year, Integration's gave a good account of himself with runner-up spots in the GI Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational, the GI Maker's Mark Mile and, most recently, the GI Manhattan Stakes at Saratoga June 8. Sandwiched between that pair, European invader Cairo (Ire) (Quality Road) ships in for Alice Haynes and owner Refal Alghraiban off a third (at odds of 100-1!) in the G1 Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot June 17. “He's fit coming here,” Haynes said. “We just gave him a two-furlong blow and let him have a look at the track so he's all set for Saturday.” The well-traveled Coolmore bred is making his first trip to the States having made prior starts in England, Ireland, Hong Kong and the UAE. “We took off from England, landed at JFK and quarantined there before (coming to Colonial Downs),” Haynes continued. “He's a seasoned traveler–he loves it. Another stamp for his passport.” Another runner knocking on the Grade I door is McGaughey stablemate Fort Washington (War Front) who has racked up nearly three-quarters of a million in career earnings on the turf and put up back to back graded stakes wins this year in the GIII Canadian Turf at Gulfstream and the GIII Dinner Party Stakes at Pimlico on the Preakness undercard. Regular pilot, this year's Kentucky Derby-winning jockey Junior Alvarado, stays aboard. He and Grand Sonata (Medaglia d'Oro), the 6-year-old Todd Pletcher entry for Whisper Hill Farm, both seek their first Grade I win after lengthy, successful careers. Beverly D. Runs Through Be Your Best Five-year-old mare 'TDN Rising Star' Be Your Best (Ire) (Muhaarar {GB}) stepped up her game to take down Santa Anita's GI Gamely Stakes at 1 1/8 miles May 26 and it would appear that anyone looking to have success in the GII Beverly D. Stakes would need to conquer the Saffie Joseph Jr. entry first. Cross-entered in the GII Ballston Spa Stakes at Saratoga Friday, the millionaire opts for Colonial Downs and the 1 3/16-mile spot as she seeks a fifth win in her last six starts. Be Your Best | Benoit Just to her outside, Beach Bomb (SAf) (Lancaster Bomber) put in a game rally to outrun her 17-1 odds and nab second just a half-length behind She Feels Pretty (Karakontie {Jpn}) in the GI New York Stakes at the Spa June 6. She's been speedy since starting her 5-year-old campaign, taking both the GIII The Very One Stakes and the GIII Orchid Stakes in gate to wire fashion for owner Cayton Park Stud. Other challengers include the GIII Gallorette Stakes winner Charlene's Dream (Qurbaan) who impressed at 1 1/16 miles on the Preakness undercard at Pimlico May 17 for Ed Moger Jr. Drawn widest of the six-horse field, Duvet Day (Ire) (Starspangledbanner {Aus}) seeks her first win of 2025 having taken the GIII Cardinal Stakes at Churchill to close out her 5-year-old season. “She seems to be in the best form of her career, numbers-wise,” trainer Michael McCarthy said of Duvet Day. “It's a big ask to run in a prestigious race like (the Beverly D.), but it's always nice to be able to participate in those kinds of races.” Secretariat Has Plenty Of Takers A group of eight has assembled for the one-mile GII Secretariat Stakes with the top two finishers coming out of the GIII Penn Mile led by Dream On (Not This Time) for Mark Casse while Cairo Caper (Cairo Prince) was one length back. Bill Mott brings Simulate (Kitten's Joy) here for his stakes debut off a strong win at Saratoga in allowance company July 18. Maui Strong (Kitten's Joy) has been knocking on the stakes door but still seeks his first win since breaking his maiden at Churchill going the mile in early November. Since, he's been on the board in the Kitten's Joy, the GIII Transylvania and just two lengths back of GISW Zulu Kingdom (Ire) (Ten Sovereigns {Ire}) when fourth in the GIII Manila Stakes in New York July 4 for Dale Romans. Giocoso (Not This Time) ran in four of the prep races ahead of the Run for the Roses and managed to be third in the GII Iroquois Stakes last year but ultimately wound up back on the grass for Keith Desormeaux. “I tried to make a Derby horse out of him, but he's just not as good on dirt,” Desormeaux said. “He's ready to go for the second half of the year. He's always been a high-level horse. I expect a big race out of him in the Secretariat.” Godolphin Pair Look To Make Amends in Sword Dancer Charlie Appleby will send out a Godophin-owned duo in Saturday's GI Sword Dancer Invitational Stakes at Saratoga, a 'Win and You're In' qualifier for the GI Breeders Cup Turf at Del Mar in about three months' time. The globetrotting Nations Pride (Ire) (Teofilo {Ire}) could have been programmed for a defense of his Arlington Million title, but instead returns to the site of his victory in the 2022 GI Saratoga Derby. The globetrotter struggled in his two starts after the Million, finishing 10th in the G2 Bahrain International Trophy and ninth as the favorite in the GI Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes, but bounced back with a smooth success in the G2 Singspiel Stakes at Meydan Mar. 1.He could do no better than 10th in a red-hot renewal of the G1 Dubai Turf and is unraced since. He tries a 12-furlong trip for the first time since finishing fifth to stable companion Rebel's Romance (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}) in the 2022 Turf at Keeneland. “I think the step up to a mile and a half at this stage of Nations Pride's career is needed to hopefully get him back on track at the top level,” Appleby said. “I'm looking forward to stepping him up and if he brings his 'A' game, he will be a big player around there, especially with his experience.” Nations Pride with Kieren Fallon | Sarah Andrew El Cordobes (Ire) (Frankel {GB}) tries top-level competition for the first time and loses William Buick to Nations Pride, but enters off a two-length victory in the G2 Princes of Wales's Stakes at Newmarket July 10. Flavien Prat rides. Far Bridge (English Channel) looks to make it back-to-back wins in the Sword Dancer, having been ridden enterprisingly when outbattling Rebel's Romance's ill-fated half-brother Measured Time (GB) (Frankel {GB}) here 12 months ago. Whereas he came into last year's renewal off a sound defeat in the GII United Nations Stakes, he is in search of his fourth win from five runs this season, including a three-length score over El Rezeen (English Channel) in a yielding-turf running of the GII Bowling Green Stakes July 12. “He's in tip-top shape and I'm bullish about him and hoping for the same result as last year,” trainer Miguel Clement said. “If you look after these horses, they'll look after you and have longevity and that's why we have had so many older horses come back.” Laurelin Brings Unblemished Mark Into Oaks The waters get significantly deeper for Laurelin (Ire) (Zarak {Fr}) in Saturday's GII Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Oaks Invitational, but with a career mark of four wins from as many starts, she certainly has earned a crack at a race of this quality. Winner of the Tepin Stakes at two, the chestnut hasn't broken any clocks this term, but also hasn't been beaten, including a 1 1/4-length success in the postponed Penn Oaks in easy ground June 27. “We got a little messed up with the race at Penn that kept getting pushed back, but maybe in the end, that'll be a blessing,” trainer Graham Motion said. “She's kind of bred to do this, so I don't have any concerns about the step up. She's very kind to train, but she can also be very tough and straightforward.” Laurelin | Sarah Andrew Opulent Restraint (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}), whose dam won the 2019 GII Ballston Spa Stakes in the colors of Stephanie Brant, was beaten a neck into second by Laurelin in the Apr. 27 Memories of Silver Stakes at Aqueduct and made the majority of the running in the GI Belmont Oaks Invitational on July 5 before yielding grudgingly to be third. The Clement barn is represented by Bobby Flay's European import Go Go Boots (GB) (Night of Thunder {Ire}), whose two victories to date have come over the all-weather track at Lingfield for John and Thady Gosden. If forgiving a distant ninth in the G1 Epsom Oaks, her third to the high-class Whirl (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}) in York's G3 Musidora Stakes in May and a decent fourth of 11 in the G2 Ribblesdale Stakes at Royal Ascot last time June 19 suggest that she is not out of her depth at this level. “She's a very straight-forward, typical European filly,” Clement said. “She came to me in great condition from Mr. Gosden and I'm very excited to train her for Mr. Flay, who gave our stable our only Breeders' Cup winner Pizza Bianca (Fastnet Rock {Aus}), so we'll do our best with this talented filly.” Juvenile Colts Get Their Shot In Best Pal A compact field of five will head to the gate for Saturday's GIII Best Pal Stakes, where Pegram, Watson and Weitman's impressive debut winner Desert Gate (Omaha Beach) looks to have his rivals over a barrel. The chestnut colt was hammered into 2-5 favoritism for his five-furlong debut at Santa Anita June 13 and settled kindly enough off the pace set by the well-meant firster Acknowledgemeplz (Bucchero), then took over a furlong out before edging away by 2 1/4 lengths. The 86 Beyer Speed Figure for covering the distance in a slick :57.35 is far superior to anything else posted by the other four juveniles. Brigante (More Than Ready) is a bit of an 'X'-factor as he transitions to the dirt for the first time. In retrospect, his debut second in a Santa Anita turf sprint on June 1 looks strong, as the winner of that event, Hey Nay Nay (Ire) (No Nay Never), romped by seven lengths in the Tyro Stakes at Monmouth Park last weekend. In preparation for this, the Calumet homebred worked a bullet half-mile from the gate on the main track in :46 4/5 (1/99) on Aug. 3. The afternoon's final graded event is the GII Yellow Ribbon Stakes, where a legitimate case can be made for at least half of the eight turf distaffers. Making her seasonal debut for Phil D'Amato, the rail-drawn Hang the Moon (Uncle Mo) is a tepid 3-1 favorite on the morning line. The post Derby Fever Arrives At Colonial Downs appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

When Parchment Party won the Aug. 6 Birdstone Stakes, a 1 3/4-mile race dirt race at Saratoga, a plan to tackle one of the most celebrated races in the world, Australia's Melbourne Cup (G1), was foremost on the minds of the colt's owners.View the full article

Royal Ascot winners and Aidan O'Brien-trained stablemates Gstaad and True Love are set to go head-to-head in the Aug. 9 Phoenix Stakes (G1) at the Curragh in a battle of the sexes. View the full article

Saturday, Curragh, post time: 16:00, KEENELAND PHOENIX STAKES-G1, €210,000, 2yo, c/f, 6fT Field: Do Bronxs (Ire) (Oasis Dream {GB}), Gstaad (GB) (Starspangledbanner {Aus}), Power Blue (Ire) (Space Blues {Ire}), Puerto Rico (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), Green Sense (Ire) (Starman {GB}), True Love (Ire) (No Nay Never). TDN Verdict: If allowed to run against each other, Gstaad and True Love will offer an exciting poser given how impressive they were at Royal Ascot. Ryan Moore is booked for the former, one of the best winners of the Coventry in some time who could be on course to do a “Johannesburg” and attempt the clean sweep of Europe's premier juvenile six-furlong contests in 2025. Since dominating the Queen Mary, True Love has followed up in style over course and distance in the Railway and her three-pound allowance could swing matters. It looks as if there is a gap between the Rosegreen pair and the Robert Papin winner Green Sense, while we know there is a sizeable one separating them and the consistent Power Blue and Puerto Rico. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Haydock, post time: 15:00, THE BETFRED ROSE OF LANCASTER STAKES-G3, £85,000, 3yo/up, 10f 100yT Field: First Conquest (GB) (Teofilo {Ire}), Certain Lad (GB) (Clodovil {Ire}), Haatem (Ire) (Phoenix Of Spain {Ire}), Haunted Dream (Ire) (Oasis Dream {GB}), Military Order (Ire) (Frankel {GB}), Okeechobee (GB) (Time Test {GB}), Royal Dubai (Fr) (Seahenge), Detain (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}). TDN Verdict: Back at the trip over which he took Royal Ascot's Listed Wolferton Stakes, Haatem holds pole position from the three-year-old Detain who needs to recapture the form of his Prix du Jockey Club third. Eight pounds weight-for-age will help Juddmonte's runner, who is joined by the operation's Okeechobee, another who needs to get back on track after a disappointing start to the campaign. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Newmarket, post time: 15:40, THE NEWSELLS PARK STUD SWEET SOLERA STAKES-G3, £60,000, 2yo, f, 7fT Field: Dance To The Music (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}), Midnight Tango (GB) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}), Princess Petrol (GB) (St Mark's Basilica {Fr}), Sapphire Steps (Ire) (Dark Angel {Ire}), True Test (GB) (Time Test {GB}), Venetian Lace (Ire) (Masar {Ire}). TDN Verdict: Withdrawn from the Princess Margaret last month, Dance To The Music bids to make up for that lost opportunity taking on the experienced Midnight Tango who was fourth in that Ascot contest. Princess Petrol impressed in a novice at Ascot last time and may be the most progressive of the other unexposed types. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Curragh, post time: 15:25, FBD HOTELS AND RESORTS PHOENIX SPRINT STAKES-G3, €42,000, 3yo/up, 6fT Field: Art Power (Ire) (Dark Angel {Ire}), Big Gossey (Ire) (Gutaifan {Ire}), Bucanero Fuerte (GB) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), Kind Of Blue (GB) (Blue Point {Ire}), King Cuan (GB) (Tasleet {GB}), My Mate Alfie (Ire) (Dark Angel {Ire}), Spycatcher (Ire) (Vadamos {Fr}), Tango Flare (Ire) (Fulbright {GB}), Nighteyes (Ire) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}), Vespertilio (Fr) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}), Babouche (GB) (Kodiac {GB}), Black Forza (Complexity), Ides Of March (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), Fregada (Ire) (Kodiac {GB}), Lady With The Lamp (Ire) (King Of Change {GB}). TDN Verdict: Art Power's record in Ireland reads 1111164, but this is his seasonal debut and is a tough assignment at his veteran stage. To varying degrees, last year's wonderkids Kind Of Blue and Babouche are threatening to go the wrong way along with Ides Of March and when you add in the likes of Bucanero Fuerte, Vespertilio and Black Forza this is definitely the most interesting race of the day. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Deauville, France, post time: 13:58, PRIX DUBAI RACING CLUB (PRIX DE REUX)-G3, €73,200, 3yo/up, 12 1/2fT Field: Marquisat (Ire) (Zarak {Fr}), Rashford (Fr) (Zarak {Fr}), Sevenna's Knight (Ire) (Camelot {GB}), Simca Mille (Ire) (Tamayuz {GB}), Uther (GB) (Camelot {GB}). TDN Verdict: Revived this term, Simca Mille could be on the way back to his prime which would be bad news for these rivals. In his last five starts, Sevenna's Knight has finished fifth in the Arc and runner-up in the Royal-Oak and Vicomtesse Vigier and the strength of the older brigade here makes life tough for the three-year-old Uther, who has flattened out after his win in ParisLongchamp's G3 Prix Noailles in April. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Deauville, France, post time: 14:33, PRIX DE LA VALLEE D'AUGE-Listed, €54,900, 2yo, 5fT Field: Graft (Ire) (U S Navy Flag), Pen And Sword (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}), First Legion (Ire) (Mehmas {Ire}), Valasara (Fr) (Hello Youmzain {Fr}), Miss Yechance (Ire) (Cotai Glory {GB}), Wateen (Ire) (Profitable {GB}), Shine On Me (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}). TDN Verdict: Sixth in the Queen Mary and fourth in the Duchess Of Cambridge, Shine On Me forms the spearhead of a typically-strong British challenge on a Deauville August two-year-old race along with the Listed National Stakes runner-up First Legion. The Aga Khan Studs are represented by Valasara, who beat the subsequent winner Repel on debut over six here last month but who as a member of the all-conquering “V family” may find this on the sharp side. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Deauville, France, post time: 17:35, PRIX MICHEL HOUYVET-Listed, €50,300, 3yo, 15fT Field: Asmarani (Ire) (Sottsass {Fr}), Dschingis Spirit (Fr) (Dschingis Secret {Ger}), I Got Rhythm (Fr) (Telecaster {GB}), Allure (Fr) (Persian King {Ire}), Hotheaded (GB) (Frankel {GB}), Starlord (Fr) (Too Darn Hot {GB}), Espoir Avenir (Fr) (Montmartre (Fr), Golden Weaver (Fr) (Romanised {Ire}), Zingaro (Fr) (Kingman {GB}), Sapodilla (Ire) (Oasis Dream {GB}), Through The Flames (Ire) (Le Havre {Ire}). TDN Verdict: Andre Fabre has four in here, with the G3 Prix du Lys fourth Hotheaded perhaps the pick, but they all have to step up markedly to get to the level of the G3 Prix Hocquart runner-up Asmarani. Disappointing in the Queen's Vase when last seen, he will be more comfortable in these waters. [Tom Frary]. Sunday, Hoppegarten, Germany, post time: 15:40, WESTMINSTER 135TH GROSSER PREIS VON BERLIN-G1, €155,000, 3yo/up, 12fT Field: Cold Heart (Brz) (Alpha), Junko (GB) (Intello {Ger}), Narrativo (Ger) (Adlerflug {Ger}), Rebel's Romance (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}), Straight (Ger) (Zarak {Fr}), Nastaria (GB) (Outstrip {GB}). TDN Verdict: Godolphin's globetrotting superstar Rebel's Romance has saluted seven times at the highest level and will bid for a repeat success having annexed the 2022 renewal of this contest. He will head postward at prohibitive odds and has little to fear coming back off a repeat third-place finish in Ascot's G1 King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes. Junko's two Group 1 victories have come at this trip and his chances of victory will hinge on the Charlie Appleby contender falling below his usual high standard, while the largely uninspiring home defence is led by G2 Grosser Hansa-Preis runner-up Narrativo. [Sean Cronin]. Sunday, Deauville, France, post time: 16:05, ARC PRIX MAURICE DE GHEEST – FONDS EUROPEEN DE L'ELEVAGE-G1, €380,000, 3yo/up, 6 1/2fT Field: Inisherin (GB) (Shamardal), Beauvatier (Fr) (Lope De Vega {Ire}), Sajir (Ire) (Make Believe {GB}), Regional (GB) (Territories {Ire}), Tribalist (GB) (Farhh {GB}), Topgear (Fr) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), Lazzat (Fr) (Territories {Ire}), Shadow Of Light (GB) (Lope De Vega {Ire}), Symbol Of Honour (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}), Woodshauna (Fr) (Wooded {Ire}), Rayevka (Ire) (Blue Point {Ire}). TDN Verdict: Wathnan Racing's Lazzat took care of Inisherin and Topgear in Royal Ascot's G1 Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes and will be a warm order to defend his title in this straight dash. Resolute Bloodstock's Woodshauna is an obvious danger, having notched a career high in last month's G1 Prix Jean Prat, and is taken to confirm form with G1 2000 Guineas third Shadow Of Light. Ed Bethell-trained G1 King Charles III Stakes third Regional has hit the board in all three starts this term and goes beyond six furlongs for the first time here. [Sean Cronin]. Sunday, Deauville, France, post time: 17:15, PRIX DAPHNIS – SAMUEL LIBERMAN (ARG)-G3, €73,200, 3yo, 8fT Field: Sahlan (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), Selenien (Fr) (Mehmas {Ire}), Chibitty (Fr) (Zelzal {Fr}), Khafiz (Ire) (New Bay {GB}), Ciaran (Fr) (Van Beethoven), Al Aali (Fr) (City Light {Fr}), Heybetli (Ire) (Showcasing {GB}), Scoville (GB) (Too Darn Hot {GB}), Tiego The First (Fr) (Blue Point {Ire}), Madero (Fr) (Lope De Vega {Ire}), Silius (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}), Tito Mo Cen (Ire) (Uncle Mo). TDN Verdict: William Haggas representative Scoville is unbeaten in two career starts and encounters hotter opposition on black-type debut coming back off a 14-length rout over this distance at Newmarket last month. Silius snagged three of his first five starts this term, finishing second at this level in the other two, and will head postward coming back off an eighth when highly tried in last month's G1 Prix Jean Prat. Lucie Pontoir trainee Al Aali finished just over six lengths adrift of Camille Pissarro when 12th in June's G1 Prix du Jockey Club, having previously finished second in May's G3 Prix de Guiche, and holds each-way claims dropping down to one mile for the first time this year. [Sean Cronin]. Sunday, Deauville, France, post time: 13:56, PRIX MOONLIGHT CLOUD – URUGUAY BOOK 1 (URU)-Listed, €50,300, 3yo, 6fT Field: Burhan (GB) (Siyouni {Fr}), Misunderstoond (Fr) (Hello Youmzain {Fr}), Dos Mukasan (Fr) (Golden Horde {Ire}), Mise En Boite (Fr) (Zelzal {Fr}), Cacofonix (Ire) (Lope De Vega {Ire}), Kerkila (Ire) (Too Darn Hot {GB}), Fraise Des Bois (Fr) (Zelzal {Fr}), Daylight (Fr) (Earthlight {Ire}), Secret Wood (Fr) (Birchwood {Ire}). TDN Verdict: Last term's dual Group 1-placed G3 Prix de Cabourg victrix Daylight gets some respite from elite-level action and has an opportunity, down significantly in grade, coming back off close-up unplaced efforts in this year's G1 Poule d'Essai des Pouliches and G1 Prix Jean Prat. Al Shaqab's G3 Prix des Chenes winner and G1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere third Misunderstood is another on a retrieval mission and returns off an unplaced effort in May's G1 Poule d'Essai des Poulains. Dos Mukasan finished just under two lengths ahead of Misunderstood in that Longchamp Classic, but has been unplaced twice and gelded in the interim. Fraise Des Bois and Secret Wood boast pattern-race form, but need to step up to feature. [Sean Cronin]. Click here for the complete fields. The post Black-Type Analysis: Gstaad And True Love Vie For Phoenix Honours appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) will recognize all service members past and present on Military Appreciation Day at Saratoga Race Course next Thursday, Aug. 14, it was announced via press release Friday afternoon. Gates open at 11:00 a.m. with first post scheduled for 1:10 p.m. during the annual event. All veterans and service members will receive free admission with proper military identification. NYRA will also make complimentary tickets available through VetTix, which provides tickets to events for veterans and active-duty personnel. The day's fifth race is named in honor of Military Appreciation Day and special recognition will be given to representatives from the various branches of the United States Military while the third race is named for The Wesley Community, a senior living campus located in Saratoga Springs which is home to dozens of veterans. The event gets underway at 12:40 p.m. with the National Anthem performed by Staff Sgt. Frankie Aisporna from West Point. NYRA employees who are veterans or active members of the military or National Guard will be recognized during that time. A host of special recognition events will take place during the course of the day. “NYRA is honored to pay tribute to our courageous veterans and active-duty service members on Military Appreciation Day, which has become an important annual tradition here at Saratoga,” said NYRA president and CEO David O'Rourke. “We look forward to sharing an enjoyable and festive day to celebrate all those who protect our freedoms.” For more information on upcoming events at Saratoga and to purchase tickets for certain race days, please go here. The post NYRA to Host Annual Military Appreciation Day at Saratoga appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Klaravich Stables' DEEP LEARNING (f, 2, Cairo Prince–Dovima, by Union Rags) sat a midfield trip while saving all the ground in Friday's third race from Saratoga, hugged the fence into the lane, and when she was popped the question by Flavien Prat with better than a furlong to go, she left her rivals in the dust, careering away to graduate by a good three lengths to achieve 'TDN Rising Star' status. Sent off favored at 2.35-1, the $27,000 Keeneland September buyback who blossomed into a $325,000 OBS April breezer (see below) was content to gain a foothold at the fence from centerfield as Beach Ballad (Omaha Beach) sped to the front from her rail draw and made the running in advance of an up-close Fraudster (Charlatan). Going well within the grasp of Prat into the final half-mile, Deep Learning was held together on the bend and when an opening large enough to drive a tractor through materialized, Deep Thinking took full advantage, pinching ground before being angled away from the inside and, despite flip-flopping her leads back and forth and finishing on her incorrect leg, in fact, put the race to bed within a matter of strides to win as miles the best. Sales history: $27,000 RNA Ylg '24 KEESEP; $325,000 2yo '25 OBSAPR. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0. O-Klaravich Stables; B-Tony Dardis, Dell Ridge Farm, Ken Donworth & Des Ryan (KY); T-Chad Brown. #4 DEEP LEARNING ($6.70) puts on a clinic in her debut with Flavien Prat in the saddle at Saratoga. This 2yo filly by @AirdrieStud's Cairo Prince is trained by Chad Brown and owned by Klaravich Stables. Bet the Saratoga Pick 4⃣ with @FanDuel.https://t.co/90o2oVtOII pic.twitter.com/wLvfaySQ77 — FanDuel Racing (@FanDuel_Racing) August 8, 2025 The post Cairo Prince Filly Goes ‘Deep’ On Debut, Becomes A ‘Rising Star’ appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Grade I-winner Gift Box (Twirling Candy) has been sold to Saudi Arabian interests and will join their breeding ranks beginning in 2026, Lane's End announced Friday afternoon. The GI Santa Anita Handicap hero, and GI Gold Cup at Santa Anita Stakes runner-up, was purchased by HRH Prince Abdlaziz Bin Mousd Bin Saud ALSaud after he had stood at Lane's End in 2025 for a fee of $5,000. Hailing from the Machmer Hall breeding program, the grey had been purchased by W.S. Farish for $135,000 as a weanling from the 2013 FTKNOV sale before going on to a career which saw him retire with an elite victory and earnings north of $1.1-million to his name. As a sire, some his leading runners include SW Powdered Sugar; SW Huracan Boricua; SP Grayson's Girl; French victor Ironico; and allowance-tested Cadeau d'Argent. In total, he currently tallies 34 winners from 72 starters on both hemispheres. The post Gift Box Sold to Saudi Arabian Interests, Will Stand in Kingdom Starting 2026 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

2nd-Newmarket, £10,000, Mdn, 8-8, 2yo, f, 8fT, 1:41.68, g/f. EVOLUTIONIST (IRE) (f, 2, Night Of Thunder {Ire}–Model Guest {GB} {GSP-Eng}, by Showcasing {GB}), a €600,000 Goffs Orby Book 1 purchase who was too green on debut when fourth at Haydock last month, was an entirely different proposition this time breaking smartly to lead. Staying on powerfully up the rising ground to the line, the 13-8 favourite held Lyrics Of Life (Pinatubo) by a length, with that well-regarded Sangster & Babington-Meehan project in turn 4 1/4 lengths in front of Juddmonte's newcomer Legacy Link (Dubawi), the immediate relative of Frankel and Noble Mission from the Gosdens. The G3 Sweet Solera Stakes-placed dam, whose yearling full-brother to the winner is catalogued in the upcoming Tattersalls October Book 1, hails from the family of Danehill Dancer's G1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud-placed Feels All Right and G3 C. L. Weld Park Stakes scorer Venturi. She also has a filly foal by Ghaiyyath. Sales history: €600,000 Ylg '24 GOFORY. Lifetime Record: 2-1-0-0, $7,881. O-Yuesheng Zhang; B-Gigginstown House; T-Karl Burke. The Maritime Cargo Services Ocean Freight Frenzy Maiden Fillies' Stakes is won well in the end by Evolutionist who looked green for much of the race under Shane Foley for the Karl Burke stable! @karl_burke pic.twitter.com/uZ8jl8lcqf — Newmarket Racecourse (@NewmarketRace) August 8, 2025 The post Yuesheng Zhang’s Orby Sensation Evolutionist Off The Mark At Newmarket appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Observations on the European Racing Scene turns the spotlight on the best European races of the day, highlighting well-bred horses early in their careers, horses of note returning to action and young runners that achieved notable results in the sales ring. Saturday's Observations features the well-bred Hawk Mountain. 1.45 Curragh, Mdn, 2yo, 7fT HAWK MOUNTAIN (IRE) (Wootton Bassett {GB}) debuts for Ballydoyle in a maiden which has been won in recent times by Delacroix, Diego Velazquez, Al Riffa and Thunder Moon and is a key player as a son of Galileo's Matron and British Champions Fillies & Mares heroine Hydrangea. A half-brother to Dubawi's Fillies & Mares-placed Wingspan and Tetrarch winner Officer, he is the pick of Ryan Moore over a pair by St Mark's Basilica (Fr) in the Fairyhouse runner-up Charles Fort (GB) and newcomer Port Of Spain (Ire), with the latter being a half-brother to Free Wind (Galileo). On the form of his debut third in the course-and-distance Barronstown Stud Irish EBF Maiden, Alwasmiyah, Ballylinch and Umm Al Shukhout's Al Haarith (Ire) (Lope De Vega {Ire}), a full-brother to the G3 Princess Royal Stakes winner Antonia De Vega from the Joseph O'Brien stable is a worthy favourite. 2.32 Newmarket, Mdn, 2yo, f, 7fT ZANTHOS (FR) (Sioux Nation) debuts for KHK Racing and the Crisfords, having cost €1 million when the top-priced filly at the Arqana May Breeze Up. A granddaughter of the smart Bahia Breeze, she encounters Wathnan Racing's 360,000gns Tattersalls October Book 1 purchase Proposal (GB) (Frankel {GB}), the William Haggas-trained daughter of the G3 Blue Wind Stakes winner and Nassau runner-up One Voice (Poet's Voice) who missed her intended debut at Goodwood's Qatar Festival last month. 2.50 Curragh, Cond, 2yo, f, 7fT DIAMOND NECKLACE (IRE) (St Mark's Basilica {Fr}) is an intriguing newcomer for Ballydoyle in this Grand Hotel Malahide Irish EBF Fillies Juvenile Race won in 2016 by Hydrangea and in which A Lilac Rolla beat Opera Singer two years ago. Out of Prudenzia (Dansili), she is a half-sister to the former stable stalwart Magic Wand (Galileo) and the Irish Oaks heroine Chicquita (Montjeu) from one of the best pedigrees anywhere. Jockey arrangements suggest strongly that the €1.7-million Arqana Deauville August topper will need this introduction, as Ryan Moore sticks with the 1.5 million gns Tattersalls October Book 1 sensation Minerva (Ire) (Frankel {GB}) despite the daughter of Prize Exhibit (Showcasing) being winless in three starts. Donnacha O'Brien saddled Falling Snow to win on debut last year and puts forward Lookingforarainbow (Justify), a daughter of the Phoenix heroine Damson (Entrepreneur) and half-sister to Dansili's Group-winning sprinter sire Requinto, while the form filly is probably Newtown Anner Stud Farm's homebred Justiciar (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), one of Ger Lyons's smart team of juvenile fillies who was third behind the subsequent Silver Flash winner Composing here in June. The post Ballydoyle’s Hawk Mountain Catches The Eye As Son Of Hydrangea Set To Debut In Key Maiden appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article