Wandering Eyes

Compiled by America's Best Racing, a rundown of this week’s horse racing coverage on TV, streaming, and radio.View the full article

Three-year-olds Gosger and Bracket Buster are entered for their first test against elders in a competitive edition of the $350,000 Fayette Stakes (G3) at Keeneland Oct. 25.View the full article

It's rare for a racehorse to have the same exercise rider for his entire career. It's almost unheard of for one rider to have been with a horse since the first time a saddle was on his back. But such is the case for Breeders' Cup hopeful Nakatomi (Firing Line). Jose Hernandez was the first person to ride the Grade I winner when he was just a yearling at Wesley Ward's farm, and five years later, he's still the one galloping him each morning at Keeneland. From the first time he sat on Nakatomi, Hernandez had a gut feeling about the oftentimes-fiery chestnut. “I remember when I got on him, I told one of the other guys that I really liked this horse because he felt so strong,” he recalled. “I got on him every day after that. Three months later he moved to the training track here at Keeneland and then he won his first start.” That winning debut came in April of 2021. In the years since, Nakatomi has grown into the star veteran of Ward's barn. As consistent as he is fast, the seasoned sprinter is Ward's all-time leading earner and has raced on three different continents. After a trip to Royal Ascot as a 2-year-old, Nakatomi won the 2021 Bowman Mill Stakes. Later as a 4-year-old, he placed in four graded stakes including the GI Breeders' Cup Sprint. Last year at five, he traveled to Dubai to run third in the G1 Golden Shaheen before earning his first graded victory in the GI Alfred G. Vanderbilt Handicap for owners Qatar Racing and Mrs. Fitriani Hay. With each passing season, Nakatomi seems to get sharper and tougher. After finishing second in his return trip to Dubai for the 2025 Golden Shaheen, the gelding turned in one of his best performances yet with his win in the GII Stoll Keenon Ogden Phoenix Stakes on Oct. 3. The six-furlong contest was a 'Win and You're In' for the GI Breeders' Cup Sprint. As Nakatomi gears up for his third consecutive trip to the Breeders' Cup, his rider believes that at 6 years old, he may have his best shot yet. “He's getting better and better,” said Hernandez. “He's really quiet when we go to the track, but then when he steps onto the track he's jumping around and ready to go.” With nearly three decades of experience, Hernandez knows when a horse is ready to run. Hernandez and Golden. Pal ahead of the 2022 Breeders' Cup | Coady Originally from Mexico, Hernandez moved to Texas 25 years ago and got a job breaking Thoroughbreds. Though he had worked with ranch horses back home, riding racehorses was completely different. At first, Hernandez worried he had made a mistake taking the job. “I've always liked horses,” he said. “But when the guy put me on the horse for the first time, the saddle was completely different! I fell off maybe three or four times that day. It was kind of scary.” Hernandez stuck with it, and it didn't take long before he was thriving in the role. After 10 years he moved to Florida. There he met Wesley Ward, who encouraged him to come ride for him in Kentucky. Hernandez has now worked for Ward for 13 years. His job is unlike most regular exercise riders, who ride only during morning training. Ward has a year-round base at Keeneland as well as a farm where he breaks yearlings. Hernandez has an important role at both locations. During the fall months when Ward's team is busy breaking babies, Hernandez starts his morning at Keeneland at 6:30. He rides seven or eight horses there, then moves over to the farm to work with the yearlings around 11:00. Hernandez with Wesley Ward and fellow Ward team veteran Osman Quevedo | Katie Petrunyak Hernandez said that working with the young horses is his favorite part of his job. “I've been breaking babies for a long time,” he said. “When you get on them for the first time, you never know what the horse is going to do. Not all the babies are the same. It takes a lot of patience.” He explained that the goal is to keep the youngsters calm and engaged, making every day a positive experience for them. Initially, the yearlings are saddled two to a stall to help them stay relaxed. They progress to being ridden up and down the barn aisle, and by the time they're ready to leave the farm about three months after arriving, they can gallop in a group in the pasture After the breaking process is done each day, Hernandez spends the afternoons filling whatever role is needed on the farm. He helps maintain the grounds, mowing pastures and seeding grass, and works closely with the mares and foals, ensuring the younger horses get the attention and handling they need. “I'm with the horses all day,” he said. “I see them when they're babies and see how they grow. I think you learn more that way.” Nakatomi and Hernandez preparing for the 2025 Breeders' Cup | Sara Gordon During his time with Ward, some of the most memorable horses he has worked with include Like the King (Palace Malice), who won the 2021 GIII Jeff Ruby Steaks and went to the GI Kentucky Derby that year, and champion Golden Pal (Uncle Mo), winner of the 2020 GII Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint and 2021 GI Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint. “Golden Pal had a lot of talent,” Hernandez recalled. “I really liked galloping him. He was easy.” Hernandez is hoping that in a few weeks, he can add a second Breeders' Cup winner to his resume. Following his Grade II score at Keeneland, Nakatomi breezed a sharp five furlongs in :59.20 on Monday, Oct. 20 in one of his final works before he ships to Del Mar. “Julio Garcia is the one who breezes the horse and I always ask Julio after he breezes how he did and he always tells me he was good,” said Hernandez with a proud smile. “I'm so happy and so glad Nakatomi got to win the race at Keeneland and now he is going to the Breeders' Cup. I feel good for him and I hope we can bring the victory to the barn.” Nakatomi's career reflects both his talent and the experience of the rider who has been with him from the very beginning. Their rare bond, built through years of steady training and shared triumphs, has brought Nakatomi to the sport's top level and a chance to secure a long-awaited Breeders' Cup victory. The post Nakatomi’s Rider Has Been With Him Since Day One appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Group sire The Grey Gatsby will stand for an unchanged fee of €12,000 at Haras du Petit Tellier, Jour de Galop reported on Tuesday. The grey, who covered over 90 mares this term, now has 17 stakes horses–nine of them stakes winners–on the Flat. In the jumps sphere, he is credited with nine black-type progeny including stakes winner Isis d'Inor, who was graded placed. “The Grey Gatsby remains at the same stud price as in 2025 for the 2026 breeding season,” said Patrick Chedeville. “He will continue to stand at Haras du Petit Tellier. The stud is for sale, but it hasn't been sold yet, so we are continuing to stand at the stud. In the event of a sale, the different timeframes mean we could go through the breeding season.” The post The Grey Gatsby To Remain At €12K At Haras Du Petit Tellier 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. Wednesday's Observations features a half-sister to Calandagan. 5.07 Deauville, Debutantes, 2yo, f, 8fT CALASITA (IRE) (Zarak {Fr}) makes her debut in timely fashion just days after her illustrious half-brother Calandagan (Gleneagles) sealed European champion status at Ascot. Francis Graffard introduces The Aga Khan Studs homebred against a cast that includes Prince Faisal's Sindalah (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}), an Andre Fabre-trained half-sister to the international heavyweight horse sire Mishriff (Make Believe). 4.43 Newmarket, Novice, 2yo, 8fT SUPERIOR CHOICE (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}) debuts for Yuesheng Zhang and the Gosdens in the race won in 2020 by Hurricane Lane and is a standout as a 1.1 million gns Tattersalls October Book 1 purchase. A son of the Prix de Royallieu and Ribblesdale heroine Loving Dream (Gleneagles), he encounters fellow newcomer Waves Of The Sea (GB) (Sea The Stars {Ire}), Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum's homebred from the Richard Hannon stable whose dam is kin to Dubawi himself. The post Calandagan’s Half-Sister Calasita Debuts At Deauville appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

5th-KEE $100k, Msw, 2yo, f, 7f, post time: 3:08 p.m. POWERED BY FAMILY (Quality Road), daughter of GI Personal Ensign winner Icon Project, debuts at Keeneland Wednesday for St Elias Stable and West Point Thoroughbreds. Trained by Cherie DeVaux, the Kentucky-bred filly is a half-sister to Grade II winner Fashion Business (GB) (Frankel {GB}). The homebred filly will accompanied in her unveiling by Axel Conception. Tommy Town Thoroughbred's Mojo Promise (Into Mischief) debuts for Hall of Fame trainer Steve Asmussen and his son and pilot, Keith. Bred by Kindred Stables, the $500,000 KEESEP buy is out of maiden Mor Mojo (More Than Ready). TJCIS PPS The post Daughter of Grade I Winner Icon Project Debuts at Keeneland appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Maiden Watch: Week of Oct. 13-19View the full article

DEAUVILLE, France — There is no getting away from the name Night Of Thunder right now, whether on the racecourse or in the sales ring. He ruled Arqana in August when his daughter of Prudenzia sold for €3 million and the Darley sire was back in the top spot as the October Sale got underway on Tuesday. For the colt consigned as lot 86, it was a case of one powerful French-based breeding operation selling to another, with Nurlan Bizakov's Sumbe operation signing for the Al Shaqab-bred son of the Listed-winning Deep Impact mare Katara at €450,000. It was also a landmark transaction for consignor Windermere Stud, run by Pierre-Hugues Henry and Janine Gandy, former employees of Arrowfield Stud and the Channel Consignment who launched their business earlier this year and have been active at Arqana only since July. “We're very lucky, we've got good clients. Thanks to them. Having a horse like that in the first year is simply incredible,” said Henry, who added that hopes had been high for a strong sale for the colt. “Just for the fact that he's by Night of Thunder, who is flying,” he said. “It's perfect timing and he was a very nice individual, a good walker, a strong horse.” Sumbe's racing and commercial manager Mario Gussago agreed with that assessment. “Physically he was perfect,” he said. “And he's coming from a great breeding operation. Hopefully he's going to be lucky for the boss.” There are four more days of trade to come at Arqana but it must be acknowledged that this first select part of the sale was not a vintage session. A shaky start saw 50 per cent of the first 30 lots through the ring bought back by their owners. This improved steadily as the day wore on but set against the clearance rate for other yearling auctions this season, or for the corresponding session last year, it was an inauspicious start to the sale with only 70 per cent sold, compared to 86 per cent in 2024. The 150 yearlings who found a buyer sold for a total of €13,918,500, a tally which was 22.5 per cent down on last year's first-day aggregate. The average of €92,790 dropped by 16 per cent and the median fell to €70,000, from €73,500 last year. 'Out of This World': Wootton Bassett Remembered There are still a few years for the final crops of Wootton Bassett to emerge but the recent loss of the stallion at the age of 17 has been much lamented, as expressed by Nicolas de Watrigant of Mandore International when buying lot 179 on behalf of MV Magnier. He said, “Wootton Bassett was out of this world. He made everyone happy, from breeders to trainers to owners. We will miss him greatly. “This colt has inherited a lot of his sire's quality. I myself was very lucky with Wootton Bassett, resulting in two Group 1 winners being unearthed as yearlings, including Unquestionable, who was for Coolmore and Al Shaqab.” Offered by his breeder Haras du Mont dit Mont, the colt represents one of the most influential stallion families of recent times. His fourth dam Helen Street is the dam of Street Cry and granddam of Shamardal, with the latter also being broodmare sire of this particular yearling via the Listed-winning mare Shamtee. De Watrigant added, “Coolmore will find a worthy replacement at stud; they have extremely promising sons who have shone at the Classic level.” The number of sons of Wootton Bassett at stud will increase again from next year when Camille Pissarro and Henri Matisse join the ranks along with perhaps Maranoa Charlie and Topgear. Already ensconced are King Of Steel, Wooded, and River Tiber, with Almanzor now permanently based in New Zealand. Also in the Wootton Bassett supporters' club is Kieran Lalor of Al Shira'aa Racing, who said of his purchase of lot 170 from La Motteraye Consignment, “She's by Wootton Bassett, the best sire of our time in my opinion, and a full sister to a Group 1 winner. It was a no-brainer for us, and we're delighted.” Bought at €350,000, the full-sister to G1 Prix Marcel Boussac winner Zellie was bred by Clare Castle and is out of Sarai, a Nathaniel half-sister to the 1,000 Guineas winner Speciosa (Danehill Dancer). Sven and Carina Hansen's brilliant mare Pride (Peintre Celebre) also graces the family. Another Wootton Bassett colt (lot 112) will be heading south to Australia after the half-brother to Poule d'Essai des Pouliches winner Coeursamba (The Wow Signal) was sold from Julie Mestrallet's Haras de l'Aumonerie for €260,000 to agent John Foote on behalf of Lindsay Park Racing. Stroud Makes Cross-Channel Visit Worthwhile The Channel Consignment, with its draft stationed across the road from the main complex in a freshly renovated annexe of the racecourse, had a notably good day and is near the top of the vendors' table after the first session with 12 yearlings sold for an average of €122,250. Anthony Stroud signed for the most expensive yearling from the draft, a colt by Siyouni out of the dual winner Creedmoor (Invincible Spirit), herself a daughter of the G1 Cheveley Park Stakes winner and G1 Prix Morny runner-up Vorda (Orpen). The colt, who fetched €320,000, is part of an ongoing dispersal of thoroughbred stock by his breeder Al Shahania Stud, who will offer mares and foals in Newmarket and Deauville this December. One might think that by this stage of the yearling sales season, which has been ongoing since August and in its fifth consecutive week of sales in Ireland, Britain and France, the super-busy Stroud might be feeling a little weary, but in fact the opposite is true. “It's a ridiculous thing to say, but I could keep going,” he said while assessing the day's purchases for a variety of clients. “I've got a good team of people, with the vets and Matt [Coleman] and Emma [Beazley], and so it's pretty organised. I'm fully focused and I've been doing it a long time. A world war could be happening and you wouldn't know about it, you're so completely immersed in it.” Stroud continued, “I think I'm very lucky and privileged to be able to buy these nice horses and I've got some very nice clients and people who support me and go through me. Without them, this wouldn't be possible. The thing is that there are a lot of bloodstock agents that don't have orders, and they work every bit as hard as I might work, and that's pressure – that's hard work. When I'm doing it, I'm working hard, I'm buying a lot of horses and it's gratifying, but I know what the other side of the coin is, and I'm very appreciative of the position I'm in.” Stroud added that the Siyouni colt had been bought for a client of Andre Fabre. He also signed for two colts by emerging young stallion Palace Pier at €210,000 and €180,000, one for the same client and another for Peter Harris, who has also added a Youmzain colt (lot 57, €120,000) and a Dark Angel filly (lot 131, €55,000) to his string. Stroud said of the 91-year-old former trainer and breeder Harris, “He's remarkable. He's a great man and it's such an honour to work with him. I've done it since I was 22, so he and I have been together a long time.” He continued, “Ultimately, you're trying to find nice horses. So whoever you're buying for, at whatever level, you're trying to do the best you can for the budget you've got. Someone like Peter has his own criteria but he is very open-minded as well.” Also among the Channel Consignment's luminaries of Tuesday was lot 118, a Lope De Vega filly bred by Haras Voltaire. She was bought for €230,000 by Carlos Lerner, who, with son Yann, trained last year's Prix du Jockey Club winner Look De Vega, by the same stallion. “She's a magnificent filly,” he said of the third foal of the Group 2-placed Merimbula (Dalakhani). “She's a daughter of Lope De Vega, a stallion we particularly like. We're going to give her the time she needs and we hope she has as spectacular a career as her sire.” Baaeed Leads the New Boys Shadwell's first-season sire Baaeed had three yearlings in Tuesday's sale, two of which were sold at €320,000 and €270,000 respectively. Jeremy Para of SAS Marais signed for Haras de Colleville's colt out of the speedy Group 2 winner Restiadargent (Kendargent), whose offspring also include the G3 Prix Texanita winner Kingentleman (Kingman) and Listed winner Restiany (Frankel). Jeremy Brummitt and Ghislain Bozo of Meridian International teamed up to buy lot 206 from Ecurie des Monceaux. The Baaeed filly is out of the Listed winner Think Of Me, a daughter of the brilliant So You Think who died this week. Thought for the Day Perhaps hopes had been pegged a little high after a generally strong yearling season in Europe, but the vibe has so far not carried over into Arqana October. A patchy start to a bloodstock auction is nothing new, and it will be no surprise to see the clearance rate pick up for the forthcoming sessions. As we witnessed to a degree during Book 1 of the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale, when a sale has been particularly strong in the previous year it perhaps has a daunting effect for some buyers, who may then return to action as the week unfolds. Tomorrow is another day. The post ‘Physically Perfect’ Night Of Thunder Colt Tops Steady Arqana Opener appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk It’s a matter of when, not if, for the country’s top driver Blair Orange. The seven-time premiership winner is vying to become just the fourth driver in this country’s harness racing history to crack the 3000-win barrier, joining Tony Herlihy (3717 wins), Maurice McKendry (3429) and Ricky May (3189). With his career tally now at 2996, he has six drives at Addington today. Any win will of course inch him closer to his milestone, though he’s hardly brimming confidence ahead of the midweek eight race programme. “They are a bit of a mixed bag,” Orange says of his drives, “we will need a bit of luck.” Three of his drives will be for Michael House, starting with The Beach House in the first, The Lather Up – World Class Sire, Real World Value Mobile Pace. He’s drawn one over 1980 metres. “He was honest last week and looks a good top three top four chance.” Stablemate and last start winner Million Dollar Chic will be Orange’s drive in race 2, the American Ideal – A Lasting Legacy Mobile Pace (5.10pm). “He did win well last time but we will need a bit of luck from the outside draw.” Another House runner Courage Reactor has also drawn wide in Race 5, the Sweet Lou – The Future Is Sweet Mobile Pace (6.55pm). The six-year-old mare comes into the race on the back of two thirds. “She is a sit-sprinter so we just wait to see how things unfold,” says Orange. Both Million Dollar Chic ($3) and Courage Reactor ($3.60) opened as favourite in their respective races. Five win trotter Special Effects ($5.50) will again be handled by Orange in Race 6, the Speeding Spur – The Trotting Titan Handicap Trot (7.30pm). The Father Patrick gelding broke last start. “I take some of the responsibility for him galloping,” says Orange, “I will be a little more cautious at the start and he is with a chance.” Orange’s other two drives on the night will be Without Comparison (Race 3) and Fear Gogh (Race 8). So far this season Orange has 141 wins to be 36 clear of closest challenger Tim Williams. His latest win was with Tokyo Rose in Sunday’s Placemakers Oamaru Cup. Racing today starts at 4.35pm. To see the Addington fields click here View the full article

A 25% ownership interest in GI Breeders' Cup Sprint contender and future WinStar stallion Mullikin (Violence) has been supplemented to the Keeneland Championship Sale held at Del Mar Oct. 29, the company announced Tuesday. Mullikin will return to Del Mar to contest the Sprint having run third as the favorite in the same race last year. The interest is offered as property of WinStar Farm. “Our participation in the Keeneland Championship Sale with our Breeders' Cup Sprint entrant, Mullikin, is an opportunity to run for $2 million in 72 hours and have a stallion to boot,” WinStar President, CEO and Racing Manager Elliott Walden said. “We're offering more than just a percentage of a Breeders' Cup contender; this is an interest in an accomplished racehorse with a promising stallion career ahead at WinStar Farm.” Interested parties may call Liam O'Rourke at 859 351-4213 for additional information about this offering. The post 25% Ownership Interest In Breeders’ Cup Contender, Future WinStar Stallion Mullikin Supplemented To Championship Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Goffs October HIT and Yearling Sale at Doncaster on Tuesday was topped by up-and-coming hurdler Lord, who sold to Donald McCain for £70,000. Sold as lot 58 by trainer Olly Murphy, the three-year-old son of Best Solution is on a three-race winning streak over hurdles after finishing second on his hurdling debut. The dual placed hurdler King John Oliver (Karaktar) (lot 95) was offered by Rahinston Stud and caught the eyes of Olly and Aiden Murphy for £54,000. Rounding out the top three was the bumper-placed Answer That (Holy Roman Emperor) (lot 91), who changed hands for £30,000 to Highflyer Bloodstock from Anthony McCann. The yearling portion was topped by a daughter of Mehmas and Never Say Never (No Nay Never) at £40,000. Yapham Manor Stud consigned the relative of G1 Prix de l'Abbaye de Longchamp heroine Gilt Edge Girl (Monsieur Bond), who sold to Bond Thoroughbred, Ltd. Of the 92 horses offered, 67 sold (73%) for a gross of £839,500 (+10%). The average rose 52% to £12,530 and the median increased 150% to £10,000. Goffs UK managing director Tim Kent said, “These sales are designed to serve as an outlet at the end of the summer and after the major yearling sales and we would like to extend our thanks to the Brookhouse family for selecting Goffs to offer their dispersal. Their draft was well received and we are grateful for the support from others including Kevin Ryan who sent a large draft to Doncaster. However, we could always do with more horses as we have proved time and again that we get the prices if given the chances and this is something that we must continually remind our clients when selling horses of any sector – there is an alternative, and we are it. “We now look forward to returning to Doncaster at the end of the month for the NH Breeders Showcase plus, for the first time this year, we are holding a new dedicated online yearling sale on our new online sales platform – GoffsGo. Entries for this new sale are due by 6 November and the sale will be held on Thursday, 13 November.” The post Lord Tops Goffs October HIT And Yearling Sale At £70,000 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Jockey Club reported Oct. 21 that 1,099 stallions covered 27,180 mares in North America during 2024, according to statistics compiled through Oct. 13. These breedings have resulted in 17,103 live foals of 2025 being reported to The Jockey Club.View the full article

A total of 13 wildcards, including Group 3 winner Alsakib, have been added to the Tattersalls Autumn HIT Sale catalogue. The sale will be held from October 27-31, next week. Offered by Andrew Balding's Kingsclere Stables as lot 319B, Alsakib is joined by the listed winner and group-placed Room Service (Kodi Bear) (lot 726F), who is part of the Kevin Ryan draft. There are also several two-year-old winners including August George (Night Of Thunder) (lot 319C); Gentle George (Sergei Prokofiev) (lot 319D); and the two-for-two Ghisa (Belardo) (lot 726E). Three-year-old winner Nasebah (Kingman) (lot 1110C) is another to have been added to the catalogue. The world's largest horses-in-training sale comprises 1,644 lots, headed by the G1 Tattersalls Gold Cup winner White Birch, and the Tattersalls Autumn Yearling Sale is made up of 104 yearlings and will take place following the conclusion of the Autumn Horses-in-Training Sale on Friday, 31st October. The post Group Winner Alsakib And 12 Other Wildcards Join Tattersalls Autumn HIT Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

With so many horses congesting the dressing rooms before the Breeders' Cup, the stage felt undeniably empty last weekend. Few, even so, will have been too intrigued by a French-bred Grade III winner over 12 furlongs of grass. After all, Venencia (Fr) (Recoletos {Fr}) was bred from a mare meanwhile sold for just €17,000. Yet there won't be another page quite like this one, full of quirks and quality, in the Keeneland November Sale. Two things leap out straightaway. One is that damsire and grandsire are by full brothers. That kind of strategy is always fascinating, suggesting a wholesome regard for mares, and here achieves duplication of one of the greatest females in the story of the breed. (Interestingly, something similar lies behind Venencia's sire: his granddam is by Fairy King, while his own sire is out of a Sadler's Wells mare.) The other standout is Venencia's third dam, Northern Trick (Northern Dancer). And when you put that Classic winner and Arc runner-up next to the legend who produced the brothers in Venencia's third generation–none other than Miesque–it becomes immediately clear that this pedigree is largely the work of Stavros Niarchos and family. While one or two programs may have lasted the course even more resoundingly, notably one that has just delivered homebreds to win the premier prizes of the European autumn on consecutive weekends, arguably none has injected the international breed with more charisma. Miesque was its masterpiece. And, unlike so many of the great female runners, she matched her racetrack brilliance with a commensurate legacy. Here we will note only its proliferation through stallions. Her first foal was the global influence Kingmambo, while her daughters included the dam of Study Of Man (Ire) and second dams of Real Steel (Jpn) and Karakontie (Jpn). Kingmambo's full-brother could not quite match his success, perhaps feeling the burden of a supremely unimaginative name. But Miesque's Son only missed the G1 Prix de la Foret by a head, and did come up with a couple of elite runners. Miesque's Approval landed the GI Breeders' Cup Mile, 18 years after Miesque won her second; and Whipper, though falling just a length short of doing the same, won three Group 1s between six and eight furlongs. Whipper also pulled rank on his younger sibling Divine Proportions (by his sire's far more successful and expensive brother) when second and fourth respectively to Dubawi (Ire) in the G1 Prix Jacques le Marois. Though a $4,000 yearling, Whipper showed all the sprinter-miler dash so characteristic of the Niarchos program, from Nureyev onwards. And while he achieved only marginal success in a nomadic stud career, his son Recoletos emulated both Miesque and Kingmambo as winner of the G1 Prix du Moulin in 2018. Recoletos also finished runner-up in the Marois to Alpha Centauri (Ire) (Mastercraftsman {Ire}), granddaughter of Miesque's dual Classic winner East of the Moon (Private Account). Recoletos was retired at €8,000 and one of the more interesting mares in his debut book was Sign of Life, by Kingmambo's son Lemon Drop Kid out of Northern Trick's daughter Onda Nova (Keos). Sign of Life had shown only a little ability in a light career, and was culled from the Niarchos program. She was bought for just 8,000gns at Tattersalls by the trainer of Recoletos, Carlos Laffon-Parias. (Whose wife, by the way, is niece of Miesque's jockey!) Bar a first cover by The Gurkha (Ire), Sign of Life was sent to Recoletos annually until sold to Haras des Evees at Arqana in December 2022. She might have been expected to bring more than €17,000, her first Recotelos foal having won on debut at Chantilly 11 days previously. But that performance evidently brought its own reward, with the filly sold to continue her career in North America. Her name is, of course, Venencia. Having won a stakes for Chad Brown and narrowly missed a Grade I podium in a stint at Woodbine, last weekend she won the GIII Dowager Stakes at Keeneland on her first start for Brendan Walsh. She is a timely first Group/graded winner for Recotelos, relaunching next spring at the fine town of Pau in the lee of the Pyrenees; and a timelier yet update for her yearling half-brother by Zelzal (Fr), who goes under the hammer [314] at Arqana Wednesday. Whatever these may yet contribute to Venencia's page, one curiosity remains: the appearance of the forgotten Keos as sire of what proved to be Northern Trick's final foal. The son of Riverman won four Group sprints and was half-brother to the dam of Hector Protector and Bosra Sham (both by Woodman), but his stud career proved a sad oddity. He spent a single spring at Hermitage Farm, during which he covered the 19-year-old Northern Trick, back where she was foaled. (She had been bought by Niarchos as a yearling, co-bred by Warner L. Jones and William S. Farish III.) Keos then returned to Europe where he mustered only around 20 foals, at low fees, prior to his premature death. Unsurprising, then, that Northern Trick should have given him his best runner: Onda Nova, winner of the listed Prix Imprudence and now granddam of Venencia. But the reverse is also true, far more expensive covers having field to prompt Northern Trick to emulate Miesque as a dam of runners. Yet time would eventually reveal her second foal Lingerie (Shirley Heights) as founder of another tremendous Niarchos family, notably as dam of the top-class runners/producers Light Shift (Kingmambo) and Shiva (Jpn) (Hector Protector). So these seams of gold sometimes just run so deep that they take a little more time to reach–and, happily, a little less money. Barnes Keeping The Dream Alive No such short cuts available in the case of Barnes (Into Mischief), with a $3.2 million price on his head. Yes, nowadays there are places where you can clear even that kind of investment on the racetrack. But ultimately he needs to work out by becoming a stallion. And, having been by no means the only horse to misfire round Parx on his previous start, his eight-length rout of some fair operators in the GIII Perryville Stakes last weekend puts him right back in the game. His price as a Saratoga yearling was plainly divided between his physique and a family that extends through third and fourth dams who both won the GI Ballerina Stakes. First, in the 1993 running, came Spinning Around (Dixieland Band). Homebred by George Steinbrenner's Kinsman Farm, her contribution to its future was cruelly curtailed when struck by lightning along with her Capote colt in 1999. She was just 10. Fortunately, she had bequeathed two fillies. One, by Kingmambo, was sold to South America where she produced elite runners in Argentina, Peru and Ecuador. The other was millionaire Dream Supreme (Seeking the Gold), who equaled the 5.5f track record at Saratoga on debut and returned the following summer to win the Ballerina, seven years after her dam. Dream Supreme's third foal was Majestic Warrior (A.P. Indy), who also had his big Saratoga moment in the GI Hopeful Stakes. Admittedly he faced only three rivals and the two big favorites punched each other to a standstill. Nor did his stud career make him seem any more substantial a talent, but it appears that his full sister may now be leaving a mark. A.P. Dream won a maiden and proved a useful allowance filly before entering production, where her foals include Royal Ascot runner-up Wind Chime (Distorted Humor). But her last daughter showed nothing in just two starts for Jeff Drown and Don Rachel, who bought All American Dream (American Pharoah) privately after she had been retained even at $775,000–much the highest bid of the auction–at Fasig-Tipton in October 2018. Whatever she cost, and however disappointing on the track, All American Dream has proved a spectacular investment. Barnes is her first foal, and this summer her daughter by Flightline brought $1.1 million through the same Indian Creek consignment at Saratoga. Some high stakes being played, one way or another, but things are working out better than they did for Maimonides (Vindication) in 2007. Remember him? He cost $4.6 million as a yearling and it was his duel with Ready's Image (More Than Ready) that set up the Hopeful for Majestic Warrior. There was a forlorn attempt to salvage something from Maimonides at stud, but right now their trainer is presumably rather happier with the way Barnes could still work out. Medaglia d'Oro | Darley Old Gold Quits On A High A footnote like this barely does justice to the retirement of one of the most remarkable stallions of our times. But at least we made due acknowledgement, not so long ago, of the Indian summer being enjoyed by Medaglia d'Oro. His tremendously glamorous physique has adapted to every demand. Yes, he has had plenty of turf action. But as a son of El Prado (Ire), he has done something beyond the late Kitten's Joy as a conduit to North American dirt for Sadler's Wells. If we are belatedly witnessing somewhat increased traffic between the gene pools, either side of the water, Medaglia d'Oro has served as a crucial crossover influence during an era of cramped horizons. He leaves the stage with his legacy continuing to expand, through the likes of Violence (four sons of his own at stud) and Bolt d'Oro. Young stallions out of his daughters, meanwhile, include National Treasure, Prince of Monaco and Olympiad. The stallion who started out with Rachel Alexandra was already 22 when siring his current sophomores, including Grade I winners Good Cheer, Nitrogen and East Avenue. So the fact that the old boy retained the gusto to cover 56 mares this spring means that he may yet have a chapter or two to add to a quite wonderful saga. The post Breeding Digest: Miesque Mirror Does The Trick appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

by TTR AusNZ The Herald Sun has reported that Racing Victoria's most senior veterinary officer, Dr Grace Forbes, has lodged a formal “Application for an order to stop bullying” with the Fair Work Commission, alleging she was “pressured and coerced” into clearing international horses considered at “high risk of catastrophic injury” to race. According to the Herald Sun, Dr Forbes, Racing Victoria's general manager of veterinary services since 2014 – alleges that senior executives, including chief executive Aaron Morrison and integrity boss Jamie Stier, urged her to be “flexible” in her application of the state's veterinary safety protocols. In her submission, seen by the publication, she claims the repeated requests to be “flexible” amounted to a demand that she act unethically and at odds with her commitment to equine welfare. “The repeated request of me to be flexible suggests that I should be unethical, which is at odds with my commitment to advocate for the horse,” Dr Forbes was quoted as saying. It reports that Dr Forbes raised concerns that permitting high-risk horses to race could lead to serious or fatal injuries and that her stance caused tension with senior management. She alleges she was later removed from her role overseeing international veterinary assessments and took personal leave citing “psychological and emotional exhaustion.” Dr Forbes also reportedly accused prominent international figures, including Irish trainer Aidan O'Brien and Melbourne Cup-winning owner Nick Williams, of applying direct pressure to Racing Victoria leadership to “soften” veterinary standards to allow more leniency for overseas runners. “I have no doubt that Mr Aidan O'Brien applied direct pressure to Racing Victoria leadership to soften the standards… to make the Veterinary Safety Protocols 'flexible', even if that meant risking catastrophic injury to horses,” Dr Forbes stated in her submission, according to the Herald Sun. It reports that Racing Victoria “strongly refutes” the allegations, describing them as inaccurate and disparaging. A spokesperson for the governing body told the publication: “Equine welfare is of the highest priority to Racing Victoria, which is why we've spent A$45 million on equine welfare programs, initiatives and resources since 2017… The protocols continue to set a global standard and we will not compromise these.” The veterinary protocols were introduced in 2021 following the death of Anthony Van Dyck in the 2020 Melbourne Cup – the seventh fatality in eight years, six of which involved European-trained horses. The new measures include compulsory pre-travel and pre-race CT or PET scans for all international entrants. Since those protocols came into effect, no fatalities have occurred during the Melbourne Cup Carnival. The recent removal of Cox Plate and Melbourne Cup favourite Sir Delius – after scans indicated a “heightened risk of injury” – indicate that the rules continue to be applied without regard to a horse's profile or connections. A Fair Work Commission hearing on Dr Forbes's application is expected to be held later this year. The post Racing Victoria’s Chief Vet Alleges Pressure To Clear High-Risk Horses appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Westerberg and Coolmore's Sugar Island (Dubawi) was a well-beaten ninth of 10 in this month's G1 Fillies' Mile and bounced back in style to make all for an impressive success in Tuesday's one-mile G3 Staffordstown Stud Stakes, formerly known as the Silken Glider Stakes, at the Curragh. The win extended Aidan O'Brien's record haul in the contest to 13. “She's a big, galloping filly who stays very well and Wayne [Lordan] gave her a lovely ride,” commented Ballydoyle's Chris Armstrong. “She had a very good run at Doncaster in a Group 2 and last time, in Newmarket, it just didn't work out on quick ground, so we just put a line through it. She's a filly with a touch of class and it's lovely to get that stakes victory for her. She looks like a perfect middle-distance filly and, hopefully, she progresses nicely over the winter. We could bring her back for an Oaks trial next year.” The 5-1 chance, who had previously run third in September's G2 May Hill Stakes, broke well for an early lead and remained on the front end throughout. Rowed along passing the quarter-mile marker, she kicked clear approaching the final furlong and was ridden out in the closing stages to comfortable account for Thundering On (Frankel) by 2 3/4 lengths. Sugar Island (Dubawi) leaves her Fillies' Mile run behind with victory in the Group 3 Staffordstown Stud Stakes for @waynemlordan and @Ballydoyle @curraghrace pic.twitter.com/vaHiRf1crc — Racing TV (@RacingTV) October 21, 2025 Pedigree Notes Sugar Island is third of four foals and one of three winners produced by a winning full-sister to Group 1-winning distaffers Minding (Galileo), Tuesday (Galileo) and Empress Josephine (Galileo) as well as G3 Derrinstown Stud 1000 Guineas Trial victrix Kissed By Angels (Galileo). Minding, in turn, is the dam of G1 Vincent O'Brien National Stakes hero Henry Longfellow (Dubawi). Sugar Island is a granddaughter of G1 Coronation Stakes and G1 Matron Stakes heroine Lillie Langtry (Danehill Dancer). The March foaled bay's dam Heaven On Earth (Galileo), who was bred to Justify this year, has already produced G3 Give Thanks Stakes runner-up Mother Nature (Justify) and has a yearling filly by Wootton Bassett to come. Tuesday, Curragh, Ireland STAFFORDSTOWN STUD STAKES (SILKEN GLIDER STAKES)-G3, €72,600, Curragh, 10-21, 2yo, f, 8fT, 1:43.68, hy. 1–SUGAR ISLAND (IRE), 128, f, 2, by Dubawi (Ire) 1st Dam: Heaven On Earth (Ire), by Galileo (Ire) 2nd Dam: Lillie Langtry (Ire), by Danehill Dancer (Ire) 3rd Dam: Hoity Toity (GB), by Darshaan (GB) 1ST BLACK-TYPE WIN; 1ST GROUP WIN. O-Westerberg, Mrs John Magnier, Michael Tabor & Derrick Smith; B-Westerberg; T-Aidan O'Brien; J-Wayne Lordan. €36,000. Lifetime Record: GSP-Eng, 5-2-0-1, $74,615. *1/2 to Mother Nature (Ire) (Justify), GSP-Ire & SP-Fr. Werk Nick Rating: A. Click for the eNicks report & 5-cross pedigree, or the free Equineline.com catalogue-style pedigree. 2–Thundering On (GB), 128, f, 2, Frankel (GB)–Thundering Nights (Ire), by Night Of Thunder (Ire). 1ST BLACK TYPE; 1ST GROUP BLACK TYPE. O/B-Shapoor Mistry; T-Joseph O'Brien. €12,000. 3–Ice Dancer (Ire), 128, f, 2, Wootton Bassett (GB)–Lugnaquilla (Ire), by Galileo (Ire). 1ST BLACK TYPE; 1ST GROUP BLACK TYPE. O-Michael Tabor, Derrick Smith & Mrs John Magnier; B-Coolmore; T-Aidan O'Brien. €6,000. Margins: 2 3/4, 4 3/4, 2 3/4. Odds: 5.00, 6.00, 7.50. Also Ran: Cameo (Ire), Stars Will Shine (Ire), Caught U Sleeping (Ire), Ifweonlyhavelove (Fr), La Fogata (Ire). The post Record 13th Silken Glider For Aidan O’Brien as Sugar Island Makes All in Curragh Feature appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Group 1 winner Economics has been retired from racing. Stud plans for the son of Night Of Thunder are pending. A winner of the G1 Irish Champion Stakes in 2024, the Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa runner dominated the G2 Dante Stakes for William Haggas earlier that year. The G2 Prix Guillaume d'Ornano was added to the colt's win column next before his hard-fought tally in the Irish Champion. “He had everything you look for in a top-class racehorse — athleticism, temperament, and an extraordinary will to win,” said Haggas. “His performance at Leopardstown was one of the most thrilling I've witnessed, it's hard to believe we could have had a horse of this calibre so close to Baaeed. He retires with our deepest admiration and is certainly one of the best colts we've had.” Jake Warren, bloodstock and racing advisor to Shaikh Isa Bin Salman Al Khalifa, added, “Economics showed us on numerous occasions how brilliant he was, in particular when defeating a seasoned field of Group 1 winners, including Auguste Rodin, in the Irish Champion Stakes last year where he rightfully secured his place as one of the highest rated mile-and-a-quarter colts in the world. “His page is very strong, he's by Night of Thunder who's breaking records on the track and in the sales ring and out of an exceptionally tough Group 2-winning race mare. He's an incredibly good-looking horse with a tremendous step so I'm sure breeders will be very interested in him as I have no doubt he'll produce very attractive, easy moving, commercial offspring. “We haven't decided on where he'll stand just yet, we've been taking calls, but options are still open at this stage.” The son of dual G2 Prix de Pomone heroine La Pomme d'Amour (Peintre Celebre) was bred by Copgrove Hall Stud and sold to Hazelwood Bloodstock for 42,000gns as a Tattersalls December foal from the draft of Baroda Stud. Sent through the same ring for the 2022 October Sale, he brought 160,000gns from Highclere Agency during Book 2. Tom Marquand, who partnered Economics in six of his seven starts, said, “He was simply brilliant, when you pressed the button he just went through the gears effortlessly. His Irish Champion win showed what he was capable of against some of the very best mile-and-a-quarter colts in the world.” The post Group 1 Winner Economics Retired, Stud Plans Pending appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

With less than two weeks before the Oct. 31-Nov. 1 Breeders' Cup, no changes occurred in the National Thoroughbred Racing Association's Top Thoroughbred Poll Oct. 21.View the full article

Economics, one of the 2024 season's standout stars with an impressive victory in the Irish Champion Stakes (G1), has been retired from racing.View the full article

Cheveley Park Stud's Estrange will remain in training and on the hunt for a Group 1 victory, according to managing director Chris Richardson. The consistent grey daughter of Night Of Thunder finished second to Kalpana (Study Of Man) in Saturday's G1 QIPCO British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes. Prior to that effort, she won the G3 Lester Piggott Stakes and then the G2 Lancashire Oaks this year. She ran second to Minnie Hauk (Frankel) in the G1 Yorkshire Oaks in August and Ascot was her first run back for trainer David O'Meara. Connections removed Estrange from Arc contention after she scoped dirty in the leadup to the Paris showpiece. Richardson said, “It [Saturday] was another Group 1 placing and we look forward to 2026 – that's the plan. She's pretty lightly-raced really, so she deserves to be allowed to continue dazzling the punters on the racecourse with her intriguing colour. “This year was against us weather-wise, maybe conditions will be different next year and we'll maybe target the Arc again. Let's hope there's more to come from her.” The post Estrange To Stay In Training In Pursuit Of Top-Level Victory appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Alex MacIntyre has been appointed the new operations and guest experience director of Newbury Racecourse. Previously, he served for over 13 years at the Saracens Rugby Club. MacIntyre said, “I am hugely excited by the opportunity to join the team at Newbury Racecourse and support the ongoing success and growth of the venue. As the racecourse continues to evolve as one of the UK's premier destinations for racing and events, I'm eager to play a part in building on its strong heritage while helping to drive forward new initiatives that enhance the experience for visitors and stakeholders alike.” Shaun Hinds, CEO for Newbury Racecourse, added, “I am delighted that Alex will be joining us here at Newbury. He brings tremendous experience and skills honed whilst at Saracens and has an all-encompassing knowledge of stadium operations learned during a time where there has been an incredible shift in how customers' expectations and demands have changed alongside the need for venue operators to constantly evolve and enhance their customer proposition.” The post Alex MacIntyre Joins Newbury Racecourse As New Operations And Guest Experience Director appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Breeders' Cup teams for Aidan O'Brien and Francis-Henri Graffard are taking shape, with both set to send strong representation to the two-day event at Del Mar on October 31 and November 1. Leading the Ballydoyle cavalry is Minnie Hauk, winner of the Oaks, Irish Oaks and Yorkshire Oaks and runner-up in the Arc. The daughter of Frankel is training toward the GI Longines Breeders' Cup Turf. “Our races have been nicely spaced out this year and she came out of the Arc well; everybody seems happy with her so that's what we're thinking at the moment,” said O'Brien. G1 QIPCO British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes fourth Bedtime Story (Frankel) is possible for the GI Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf. O'Brien reported, “She ran well, very happy. She'd probably have preferred a stronger pace but ran very well. She definitely could go for the Fillies and Mares Turf, that's what we're thinking, maybe.” The GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf is the likely next port of call for G1 Dewhurst Stakes second Gstaad (Starspangledbanner). “Yes, at the moment, that's what we're thinking [for Gstaad],” he said. “He came out of the Dewhurst well. We think the fast ground in a mile will suit him.” Other Ballydoyle horses with their eyes on Breeders' Cup riches include dual Group 1-winning filly Precise (Starspangledbanner) for the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf, and The Lion In Winter (Sea The Stars) for the GI FanDuel Breeders' Cup Mile. O'Brien could also send True Love (No Nay Never) for the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint. Graffard Could Have Giant Impact At BC Although his potential Breeders' Cup team numbers just three, French trainer Francis-Henri Graffard is likely to continue his banner year, this time abroad. Leading the Graffard trio is Goliath (Adlerflug), who recently won the G1 Grosser Preis von Baden, and was successful in the G1 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes in 2024. He has been supplemented by John Stewart's Resolute Racing for $200,000 to try his hand in the Breeders' Cup Turf. Graffard said, “John Stewart is very keen to run him, the horse is well and if John is happy, we can go, and I'm happy to take the horse there.” “[The fast ground is] not ideal, but I think the track is very tricky; you need a lot of luck in running. The horse is in very good form, and I think I am getting him back to his best form. He seems very happy, so if he travels well and we have a bit of luck, he can run a big race.” Currently leading the French trainers' standings, Graffard won the G1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe with Daryz (Sea The Stars) at the beginning of the month. He has yet to win at the Breeders' Cup from five attempts, with his Malavath (Mehmas) second in the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf his best showing so far. He said, “I keep trying, but it's a very tough meeting, and maybe I didn't bring the right horses at the time, but it will come.” G1 Prix de Moulin de Longchamp hero Sahlan (Wootton Bassett) holds an entry in the GI Breeders' Cup Mile for Al Shaqab Racing, while another bound for California from the Graffard yard is Gezora (Almanzor). Only 13th in the Arc, the G1 Prix de Diane heroine is pointing to the GI Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf. Graffard added, “The Arc didn't go her way. She didn't have a great draw, and she found herself way too far back; it was really hard to come from behind there. I think we can draw a line on her performance in the Arc; she's better than that. “I think that Del Mar shouldn't be a problem for her; all will depend on the field. She's a great filly.” The post Minnie Hauk Leads O’Brien Breeders’ Cup Team; Goliath Anchors Graffard Trio appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Sam Agars SOUTH STAR - R8 (5) Was impressive when running second first up and he can go one better here Jay Rooney SILVER SPURS - R7 (8) Looks set to go one better than last start with the aid of the inside draw Owen Goulding IVY LEAGUE - R8 (9) Latest trial was eyecatching and ended last season with a huge run Phillip Woo SILVER SPURS - R7 (8) In good form and may never be headed from gate one Shannon (Vincent Wong) SUPER SIXTY - R1 (2) Made late ground last time out and can triumph...View the full article

Survie, runner-up by a head in the G1 Prix de Diane, will be offered during the Sceptre Sessions at the Tattersalls December Mares Sale from December 1-3. She will sell as lot 1723 on Tuesday, December 2. The daughter of Churchill will be consigned by co-trainers Nicolas Clement and Frauke Hermans on behalf of owners China Horse Club International and Gerard Augustin-Normand. A winner of the G2 Prix de Malleret at three, the four-year-old was third in the G1 Pretty Polly Stakes, second in the G1 Prix Jean Romanet and fourth in the G1 Prix Vermeille this year. She currently holds a Timeform rating of 114. Out of the listed winner and G2 Prix de Royallieu-placed Sotteville (Le Havre), this is the family of G1 Champion Stakes winner King Of Steel and Australian champion Contributer. Clement said, “We are consigning a jewel. She has been the star of the stable and was just beaten a head in a French Classic. She is a top-of-the-ground filly who has been very consistent throughout her career, being Group 1 placed on three occasions including in the Pretty Polly and Prix Jean Romanet. She is one of the very best fillies in Europe and whether to breed or race, I'm sure she'll make somebody happy. We'll be sad to see her go.” Added Tattersalls chairman Edmond Mahony, “Survie is a very attractive, high-class race filly who could easily have won the Prix de Diane. She offers buyers an opportunity to buy not just an outstanding racehorse to race on, but also a filly who looks an exceptional broodmare prospect. We are honoured to be asked to offer her in the Sceptre Sessions at the Tattersalls December Mares Sale where she joins a growing cast of top class race fillies and broodmares.” The post Prix De Diane Runner-Up Survie To Be Offered At The Sceptre Sessions appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

With reporting 85-90% complete for the 2024 season, 1,099 covered 27,180 mares in North America which resulted in 17,103 lives foals in 2025, the Jockey Club announced Tuesday. The reporting of live foals of 2024 is down 3.4% from last year at this time when The Jockey Club had received reports for 17,700 live foals of 2024. In addition to the 17,103 live foals of 2025 reported through October 13, The Jockey Club also received 1,887 No Foal Reports for the 2025 foaling season. Ultimately, the 2025 registered foal crop is projected to reach 17,300. The number of stallions declined 6.9% from the 1,181 reported for 2023 at this time last year, while the number of mares bred declined 3.3% from the 28,104 reported for 2023. The full 2025 breeding statistics are available alphabetically by stallion name through the online Fact Book on The Jockey Club website. Kentucky annually leads all states and provinces in terms of Thoroughbred breeding activity with Kentucky-based stallions accounting for 61.4% of the mares reported bred in North America in 2024 and 66% of the live foals reported for 2025. The 16,686 mares reported bred to 204 Kentucky stallions in 2024 have produced 11,288 live foals, a 2.7% decrease on the 11,605 Kentucky-sired live foals of 2024 reported at this time last year. The number of mares reported bred to Kentucky stallions in 2024 decreased 2.2% compared to the 17,056 reported for 2023 at this time last year. California ranked second in mares bred with 1,507 mares producing 980 foals, a decrease of 6.3%. Out of the top ten, only two states showed an increase year over year. New York came third overall at 1,185 mares and 704 foals reported, an increase of 4.8% and New Mexico also increasing marginally with 446 mares and 239 foals showing a 0.8% increase. The biggest drop went to Maryland who reported 499 mares and 302 foals for a 12.2% decrease. Florida also saw double-digit decreases at 1,330 mares and 700 foals with a 10.5% drop. Internationally, 272 progeny were born by stallions standing in North America but foaled aboard led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with 57 foals followed by Japan at 45 and the Republic of Korea at 40. The report also includes 66 mares bred to 20 North American stallions on Southern Hemisphere time. The post Foal Crop, Stallions Decline In 2024 Jockey Club Breeding Stats appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article