Wandering Eyes

Saratoga's opening weekend kicks off with a trio of graded stakes Friday–the GI Belmont Derby, GII Suburban Stakes and GIII Manila Stakes. Saturday's card features three additional graded tests, including the GI Belmont Oaks. The day's undercard is highlighted by the GIII Sandford and GIII Kelso. The Belmont Derby offers a salty assembly of turf horses, including European invader Luther (GB) (Frankel {GB}), who is trained by Charlie Fellowes. In three starts this term, Luther was runner-up on the synthetic at Chelmsford in April before finishing fourth behind winner Henri Matisse–beaten only 1 1/4 lengths–in the French 2,000 Guineas, the G1 Poule d'Essai des Poulins, at Longchamp in May. The sophomore looks to get back on track following a 15th in the G1 Prix du Jockey Club at Chantilly June 1. A pair of contenders from this season's Triple Crown–Final Gambit (Not This Time) and Flying Mohawk (Karakontie {Jpn}) return to what looks to be their preferred surface. The former was third on the sod at Churchill Downs last November before finishing a close-up second going a mile over Turfway's synthetic Jan. 4. Winning his next two over that track, including the nine-furlong GIII Jeff Ruby Steaks in March, the grey came home a bang-up fourth behind Sovereignty (Into Mischief) and subsequent Preakness hero Journalism (Curlin) in a wet renewal of the GI Kentucky Derby. The Juddmonte homebred finished in that same spot June 8 in the 8 1/2-furlong GIII Matt Winn Stakes and gets another try on the grass here. Flying Mohawk did most of his earlier running on the turf, breaking his maiden in a Churchill maiden in October before making it two straight with a score while facing optional claiming company at the Fair Grounds in January. Second behind Final Gambit in the Jeff Ruby, the dark bay never got into the mix of things in the roughly-run Kentucky Derby and had to settle for 18th. Getting blinkers on for this return to the green, he will get the services of Frankie Dettori. GIII Transylvania scorer Test Score (Lookin At Lucky), runner-up in the GI American Turf last time out, makes his first start back since as does GISW New Century (GB) (Kameko), who was third in the American Turf. Cutting back from his last out victory in the American Turf, Zulu Kingdom (Ire) (Ten Sovereigns {Ire}) appears hard to beat in the one-mile Manila. A winner in his sole start in France for Andre Fabre last term, the Irish-bred is four for five since joining Chad Brown stateside. Winner of the GII Pilgrim and GIII With Anticipation over this surface at two, the bay took the one-mile Columbia Stakes at Tampa earlier in March. Locked Looks for Redemption in Suburban 'TDN Rising Star' Locked (Gun Runner) took plenty of money in his latest start in the GIII Alysheba at Churchill Downs on May 2 when finishing a fair bit behind his winning stablemate Fierceness (City of Light). Despite that tough beat that day, the lightly-raced chestnut has shown he is more than up to the task despite the recent defeat. Victorious in the GI Breeders' Futurity at two, the colt also finished third in that season's GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile. Winning both starts at three, including the GII Cigar Mile at the Big A in December, he closed well to be runner-up behind White Abarrio (Race Day) in the GI Pegasus World Cup Invitational at Gulfstream in January before galloping home an 8 1/2-length winner in the 10-furlong GI Santa Anita Handicap. Jose Ortiz gets the return call here. Saturday's Graded Action Led by Belmont Oaks While there certainly are some nice fillies ready to lineup in Saturday's featured Oaks, Nitrogen (Medaglia d'Oro) seems to breath different air than her rivals in Saturday's GI Belmont Oaks. Trained by Mark Casse, the D J Stable homebred has proven unbeatable so far this season, winning all five starts, including a quartet of graded stakes. Grade I placed in a pair of starts at two, Nitrogen won this season's Ginger Brew Stakes, GIII Florida Oaks and GII Appalachian before cruising home a confident winner of Churchill's GII Edgewood Stakes May 2. With only two others daring to face her in the rained-off GIII Wonder Again Stakes at this venue on June 7, she was all alone at the wire, winning by double digits. Regular rider Jose Ortiz gets back on board here. Looking to stand in the way of the morning line favorite is Fionn (Twirling Candy), who herself has shown consistency, winning four of her last five starts, including the nine-furlong GIII Regret Stakes at Churchill on May 31. Trained by Brad Cox, the dark bay gets the services of Flavien Prat for the first time. The jockey-trainer combo are pure fire, having connected at almost a 50% strike rate at the Spa so far this year. The juvenile division also gets some play Saturday with six entered for the six-furlong Sanford. 'TDN Rising Star' Obliteration (Violence) ran off to an embarrassingly easy victory in his Churchill debut going 5 1/2 furlong June 12 and gets jumped into graded company for his follow-up swing. Mark Casse offers up two viable options, however, with runaway debut winner Strategic Risk (Noble Bird) and morning line favorite Blinging It Back (Volatile), who finished third in the Tremont Stakes at the Spa June 5. A homebred for John Oxley, Strategic Risk faces opening company here after his debut win over fellow Florida-breds June 7. His stablemate, who is still a maiden, was third in his career bow in Louisville May 1. Irad Ortiz Jr. rides the former while his brother, Jose, is named on the latter. The GIII Kelso has attracted eight, including a handful marked for main-track-only. Among the main contenders, Donegal Momentum (Uncle Mo) comes into this off a 1 3/4-length score in the June 5 GIII Poker Stakes over this course. He faces Poker third-place finisher Intellect (Fr) (Intello {Ger}), in addition to dual graded stakes winner Think Big (Twirling Candy). The post Belmont Derby, Oaks Head Holiday Weekend at The Spa, TDN Rising Star Locked Returns in Suburban appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

John C. Harris, one of California's most respected leaders in agriculture and Thoroughbred breeding, has passed away peacefully at the age of 81. Born July 14, 1943, Harris was a lifelong resident of Fresno County. He attended local elementary and high schools before earning his degree from UC Davis. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. Harris was a passionate farmer, rancher, and businessman who dedicated his life to stewarding the land and advancing California agriculture. As the driving force behind Harris Farms, one of the state's most prominent and diversified agricultural operations, he championed innovation, quality and sustainability in every endeavor. For nearly 50 years, and continuing with his father's legacy, Harris Ranch Beef Company experienced tremendous growth, delivering superior quality grain-fed beef worldwide. Harris was also a nationally recognized figure in Thoroughbred racing, known for breeding and racing many distinguished champions. His deep love for horses and the sport was matched by his leadership and advocacy within the industry, where he served as a mentor and ambassador for generations. Holding positions with California Thoroughbred Breeders Association, the California Horse Racing Board, and the Thoroughbred Owners of California, Harris was a member of The Jockey Club of America since 1988. Closing Remarks | Benoit Photo Harris Farms stood key stallions like Cee's Tizzy, the sire of the great Tiznow, and also perennial leading California sires Unusual Heat and Vronsky. Harris was also responsible for standing Lucky Pulpit, the sire of GI Kentucky Derby hero California Chrome. More recently, his lineup included Catholic Boy and Halladay. Along with Don Valpredo, Harris bred and raced GSW Soviet Problem (Moscow Ballet), and he and Valpredo bred Unzip Me (City Zip), who Harris co-owned while she was third in the GI Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint in 2010. Carrying his signature white and green checked colors was MGSW Closing Remarks (Vronsky). Beyond his professional achievements, Harris had an unwavering passion for helping people and supporting his local community. Whether through philanthropy, mentorship, or quiet acts of kindness, he consistently uplifted others and believed in giving back to the region and industry that shaped him. His humility, generosity, and integrity were hallmarks of his life. Harris was recently married in June to his beloved wife, Cookie Harris, with whom he shared deep joy, admiration and companionship. He is survived by Cookie, extended family, and countless friends and colleagues whose lives were enriched by his strength of character and enduring compassion. A private burial ceremony will be held, while a public celebration of life is being scheduled and will be announced soon. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Jack A. Harris Memorial Scholarship Fund, continuing Harris's commitment to supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders. Extremely sad news to learn earlier this morning that my good friend, California racing/breeding icon John Harris has died. An absolute legend in our industry who did more for breeding in this state than anybody. A monumental loss for CA. He will be greatly missed. :cry::broken_heart: https://t.co/sbFLAL8nBJ — Auerbach Thoroughbreds :horse_racing: (@UnusualHeat) July 3, 2025 The post Iconic Breeder John C. Harris Passes Away At 81 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Grade 3-placed Flying Mohawk, a runner in this spring's Kentucky Derby (G1), will be scratched from an intended start in the $750,000 Belmont Derby (G1T) at Saratoga Race Course after undergoing emergency colic surgery the morning of July 2.View the full article

Coral-Eclipse Stakes (G1) favorite Ombudsman shortened up to 10-11 with most firms July 3 with four other group 1 winners entered in the six-horse field at the declaration stage for Sandown Park's July 5 group 1 highlight.View the full article

The California racing and breeding industry has lost one of its stalwarts in John C. Harris.View the full article

Sweet Azteca and Kopion are set to meet for the first time, their battle coming in a Los Alamitos stakes named for the D. Wayne Lukas-trained multiple stakes winner Great Lady M., the dam of champion Lady's Secret.View the full article

Last out winner of the GIII Miss Preakness Stakes, ECHO SOUND (f, 3, Echo Town–Eagle Sound, by Fusaichi Pegasus) kept her nearly perfect record in tact with a facile win over a short field in Thursday's GIII Victory Ride Stakes. Always prominent just outside pacesetter Hollygrove (Complexity), the 3-2 favorite switched it on when cued at the top of the lane past fast fractions of :20.83 and :44.85. Only Beauty Reigns (Into Mischief) was doing any running late as the four-strong field came in spaced out behind a geared-down winner. The final time for the 6 1/2 furlongs was 1:15.49. Lifetime Record: 6-5-1-0. O-Gabriel Duignan; B-Springhouse Farm, Vision TBs, Bruce Pieratt & Patricia Pieratt; T-George R. Arnold II. Echo Sound makes it back-to-back wins in the G3 Victory Ride at Saratoga! Rusty Arnold trains and @luissaezpty was aboard. pic.twitter.com/PtEskaHwOp — TwinSpires Racing (@TwinSpires) July 3, 2025 Thursday, Saratoga VICTORY RIDE S.-GIII, $162,750, Saratoga, 7-3, 3yo, f, 6 1/2f, 1:15.49, ft. 1–ECHO SOUND, 124, f, 3, by Echo Town 1st Dam: Eagle Sound, by Fusaichi Pegasus 2nd Dam: Synformer, by Sovereign Dancer 3rd Dam: Anjelicco, by Angle Light O-Gabriel Duignan; B-Springhouse Farm, Vision TBs, Bruce Pieratt & Patricia Pieratt (KY); T-George R. Arnold II; J-Luis Saez. $96,250. Lifetime Record: 6-5-1-0, $459,995. *1/2 to Pick of the Litter (Kitten's Joy), GSW, $419,110 and Deer District (Oscar Performance), MGSP, $459,931. Werk Nick Rating: F. Click for the eNicks report & 5-cross pedigree. Click for the free Equineline.com catalogue-style pedigree. 2–Beauty Reigns, 120, f, 3, Into Mischief–Ilsa, by Tapit. 1ST GRADED BLACK TYPE. O-Tranquility Lake Farms LLC; B-Wygod Equine, LLC (KY); T-William I. Mott. $35,000. 3–Indy Bay, 122, f, 3, Take Charge Indy–Discovery Bay, by Speightstown. 1ST GRADED BLACK TYPE. ($40,000 Wlg '22 KEENOV; $19,000 Ylg '23 KEESEP; $19,000 RNA 2yo '24 TTAAPR). O-C Two Racing Stable, Paul Braverman and Timothy Pinch; B-Frankfort Park Farm (KY); T-Saffie A. Joseph, Jr. $21,000. Margins: 4 1/4, 4 3/4, 2. Odds: 1.50, 1.70, 1.80. Also Ran: Hollygrove. Scratched: Whatintheliteral. Click for the Equibase.com chart and the TJCIS.com PPs. VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. The post Echo Sound An Easy Winner Of The Victory Ride appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

In a joint statement from President Bob Hutt and Executive Director Jeff Matty of the Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association (PTHA), the Bucks County litigation filed last fall by members of the board of directors was settled on terms that all parties believe to be in the best interest of the PTHA and its 2,500-plus membership, the organization said via a press release on Thursday. On Oct. 22 of last year, TDN's T.D. Thornton reported that seven of the 11 directors of the PTHA had filed a legal response that denied sweeping allegations of corruption and cronyism that were made the prior month by Hutt and another board member. The directors specified for removal by Hutt included Matty, who was also under contract to work as the PTHA's executive director. In the settlement agreement, the parties recognize that all directors have acted in good faith and in the best interest of the PTHA at all times and that no party should be removed based on the conduct raised in the litigation. As a result of the settlement terms, the board will seek to implement a plan of action within the next 60 days by amending the bylaws. Changes will include mandatory board training at the beginning of each term, along with a more robust conflict of interest and mandatory disclosure policy. The release goes on to state that neither the parties nor their counsel shall have any other comment about the litigation or the settlement. Click here to access the settlement agreement. The post PTHA Reaches Settlement Agreement On Internal Litigation appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Trainer Graham Motion will saddle last-out Keertana Stakes victress Marksman Queen as he aims for his 10th victory in the July 5 $250,000 Robert G. Dick Memorial Stakes (G3T) at Delaware Park.View the full article

The New York Racing Association announced it has moved the $300,000 Troy Stakes (G2T) back one day from the Aug. 2 Whitney Stakes (G1) Saturday card to Aug. 3. View the full article

Friday, Sandown, post time: 15:00, THE DRAGON STAKES-Listed, £30,000, 2yo, 5f 10yT Field: Blue Orbit (Ire) (Starman {GB}), Military Code (GB) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), Rogue Supremacy (GB) (St Mark's Basilica {Fr}), Killavia (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}), Lebron Power (GB) (Starman {GB}), Love Olivia (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}), Solana Rose (Ire) (Mehmas {Ire}), Staya (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}). TDN Verdict: Some Royal Ascot runners here, with Godolphin's Military Code looking to bounce back from an unplaced effort in the Coventry, KHK Racing's Staya having shown up prominently when fifth in the Queen Mary and Rogue Supremacy having disappointed in the Windsor Castle. Lebron Power may not have that experience, good or bad, but showed distinct promise when scoring on debut at Windsor and is a real threat. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Sandown, post time: 15:35, THE CORAL-ECLIPSE-G1, £1,000,000, 3yo/up, 9f 209yT Field: Ombudsman (Ire) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}), Sosie (Ire) (Sea The Stars {Ire}), Camille Pissarro (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), Delacroix (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}), Hotazhell (GB) (Too Darn Hot {GB}), Ruling Court (Justify). TDN Verdict: A sensational renewal of this wonderful race, titled historically as “the first clash of the generations” and which retains all its star appeal with City Of Troy and St Mark's Basilica among the last four winners which all hailed from the Classic crop. Like that pair, and the 2023 winner Paddington, the Prix du Jockey Club hero Camille Pissarro and the Derby flop Delacroix represent Ballydoyle which is always the first port of call and the former is still unexposed at the trip having mastered it so well at Chantilly. Godolphin's 2,000 Guineas hero Ruling Court is also here, with the step up to a mile and a quarter sure to suit, and the older horses will have to be at the top of their game to keep them at bay. While he was impressive in the Prince of Wales's last month, Ombudsman faces a second quick race on fast ground in a short space of time for one who was so nurtured last term and any temporary regression will see him vulnerable, while the pace scenario is sure to be very different here with no obvious front-runner. Sosie looks like a fast mile-and-a-half horse and may lack the zip of the Classic-winning 3-year-olds. [Tom Frary]. The post Black-Type Analysis: Royal Ascot Also-Rans Return in Sandown’s Dragon Stakes appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

7th-SAR, 100K, Msw, 3yo/up, 6 1/2f, 4:22 p.m. The pricier half of a coupled entry, REBELLIOUS TYPE (Into Mischief) makes his belated debut for the partnership of Spendthrift Farm LLC, Cypress Creek Equine and St. Elias Stable. The 4-year-old son of MGSW Teresa Z brought an even $1,000,000 as a yearling at the Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale in 2022 and comes in on a steady work tab for trainer Amelia Green. This is the family of champion 2-year-old filly Storm Flag Flying (Storm Cat) via third dam, MGISW My Flag (Easy Goer). Opposing Rebellious Type is a trio of 3-year-olds led by Apalta (Authentic), a $525,000 grad also from the Saratoga Sale in 2023. First dam Southern Ring, who did her racing in Canada to the tune of a pair of graded stakes wins, sold for $875,000 in foal to Into Mischief at KEEJAN in 2021 to Determined Stud who bred Apalta. She has already produced GSP Ladywearsthering (Uncle MO0 and SP Adora (Into Mischief). There's plenty of Canadian back class in the pedigree with $1.1m KEENOV broodmare Radiant Ring as her third dam, making this the family of Canadian champion 3-year-old filly Catch the Ring (Seeking the Gold) and her daughter, another Canadian champion 2-year-old filly in Catch the Thrill (A.P. Indy). First-time starter Subito (Speightstown), a Juddmonte homebred, is a half-brother to GISW Obligatory (Curlin) and to GSP Treble Clef (Arrogate) while another half-sister, Napier (Midnight Lute), is responsible for $1.3m OBS March 2-year-old and MGISP Ferocious (Flatter). First dam Uno Duo, a stakes winner herself, is a half to French G1SW Etoile Montante (Miswaki). Juddmonte bought into the family via third dam Nijinsky Star for $700,000 back at KEENOV in 1987 and was well-rewarded for it with plenty of Grade I class found under her page. One of just a few runners with any experience in the field, Godolphin homebred Fort Nelson (Bernardini) made one start in October of last year when fourth at Aqueduct going seven furlongs. The colt is out of MGISW Seventh Street (a $1,000,000 purchase for Godolphin as a 2-year-old in 2007), making him a half to GSW/GISP Lake Avenue (Tapit) and a full-brother to GI Malibu Stakes runner up Marking. TJCIS PPS 7th-ELP, 100K, Msw, 2yo, 5 1/2f, 3:42 p.m. The 2-year-olds feature at Ellis Park with Tracy Farmer homebred Western Warrior (Essential Quality) drawing the rail. Out of Trophy Girl, who Farmer sold for $750,000 at FTKNOV in 2023, the colt is a half to GISW Blazing Sevens (Good Magic) $500,000 Saratoga grad War Spirit (Omaha Beach), a half to both SW Ari Gold (Medaglia d'Oro) and GSP Petruchio (Into Mischief) also debuts here for BC Stables. TJCIS PPS The post Friday Insights: Seven-Figure Fireworks At Saratoga appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) and 'At the Races' host Steve Byk will once again partner for the 'Beat Byk NHC Challenge' this summer, offering one NHC tour member the opportunity to compete in the National Horseplayers Championship (NHC) at the Horseshoe Las Vegas from Mar. 13-15, 2026. “For me, the return of 'Beat Byk' means summer and featured contest races at Saratoga, Del Mar, Ellis Park, Colonial Downs, Monmouth Park and by Labor Day, Kentucky Downs,” said Byk. “'Beat Byk' has proven to be an excellent gateway for aspiring contest players and sending one horseplayer to Vegas for the NHC on a free roll every year means a lot to me. Thanks to the NTRA for giving players this no-cost opportunity.” Last year's contest attracted better than 12,000 entries. Every Thursday, Byk will choose the weekend stakes race that make up the week's contest and announce them both on the radio and on his X page, @Steve_Byk. Byk's selections will be announced no later than each Friday. There will be 17 chances to qualify to the Beat Byk NHC Online Qualifier on September 13 during the promotional period. Listeners will be encouraged to log into https://www.ntra.com/beatbyk/ where they will either use Byk's selection to win the featured race or try to 'Beat Byk' by selecting another horse. All who correctly select the winning horse in each round will advance to a NHC 'Beat Byk' online qualifier on Sept. 13 held on Horseplayers.com. Participants may qualify only once during the promotional period. Membership in the NHC is required to take part in the September NHC Online qualifier. The post ‘Beat Byk’ Handicapping Contest Returns For 2025 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

In this continuing series, we take a look ahead at US-bred and/or conceived runners entered for the upcoming weekend at the tracks on the Japan Racing Association circuit, with a focus on pedigree and/or performance in the sales ring. Here are the horses of interest for this weekend running at Fukushima and Kokura Racecourses: Sunday, July 6, 2025 5th-FKS, ¥14,250,000 ($98k), Newcomers, 2yo, 2000mT MAKE IT (f, 2, Bolt d'Oro–Holy Legal {Brz}, by Holy Roman Emperor {Ire}) is the first foal from her dam, a stakes winner in Brazil in 2017, a champion MGSW sprinter in Uruguay the following season and twice-placed in Arlington allowance races and down the field in the Korea Sprint and well-beaten in the Korea Sprint in 2019. A $20,000 graduate of the 2020 Keeneland January Sale, Holy Legal was bought back on a bid of $57,000 at the 2022 Fasig-Tipton July HORA Sale when carrying this filly, who was foaled the following February. Covered by Corniche and exported to Japan, Holy Legal produced a filly in 2024 and a filly by Group 3 winner Tosen Reve (Jpn) (Deep Impact {Jpn}) this term. O/B-Takaya Shimakawa (KY); T-Minoru Tsuchida 8th-KOK, ¥15,200,000 ($105k), Allowance, 3yo/up, 1000m FEMME ELEGANTE (f, 3, Tiz the Law–Twirling Owen, by Twirling Candy) failed to land a blow sprinting over a yielding local grass course Feb. 20, but turned it around in a big way, graduating by seven lengths on the dirt at Fukushima Apr. 20 (see below, SC 15). West Virginia-bred Twirling Owen was a winner in restricted stakes company and fetched $165,000 carrying this filly at the 2021 Keeneland November Sale. The mare, a half-sister to MSW Run To Daylight (Runhappy), was reoffered at the same auction in 2023, selling for $42,000 in foal to Honor A. P., but sadly passed away in 2024. O-Normandy Thoroughbred Racing Co Ltd; B-W S Farish (KY); T-Naoya Nakamura The post Bolt d’Oro Filly Debuts Long On the Grass at Fukushima appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Some of the most highly anticipated races during the summer season are the 'baby' races during the boutique meetings at Saratoga and Del Mar and at Ellis Park, which attract its fair share of high-priced juveniles from a variety of top national outfits. Summer Breezes, sponsored by OBS Sales, highlights debuting and stakes-entered 2-year-olds at those meetings that have been sourced at the breeze-up sales earlier in the year, including links to their under-tack previews. Here are the horses entered for Independence Day at Saratoga and Ellis Park. Friday, July 4, 2025 Sar 2, Schuylerville S., $150k, 2yo, f, 6f, 1:42 p.m. ET Horse (Sire), Sale, Price ($) Kingsolver (Omaha Beach), OBSMAR, 95,000 C-J V C Training & Sales, agt; B-RB Bloodstock, agt. Storyteller Rcg Miss Magical (Good Magic), OBSAPR, 100,000 C-S G V Thoroughbreds (Steven Venosa), agent; B-George Weaver, agent for Vekoma Thorougbreds LLC Ellis 7, $100k, 2yo, 5 1/2f, 3:42 p.m. ET Mayweather (Practical Joke), OBSAPR, 260,000 C-Top Line Sales LLC, agent; B-Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners Saratoga 6, $90k, 2yo, (R), 5 1/2fT, 3:50 p.m. ET Essentially Fast (Essential Quality), OBSAPR, 40,000 C-Top Line Sales LLC, agent; B-Gary Contessa, agent Santinni (Munnings), OBSAPR, 12,000 C-S G V Thoroughbreds (S Venosa), agent; B-Paullie B Racing Sculcos Folly (Redesdale), OBSAPR, 70,000 C-Omar Ramirez Bloodstock, agent; B-Chad Schumer, agent The post Summer Breezes: Friday, July 4, 2025 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The curtain came down on the Arqana Summer Sale on Thursday where Victoire Des Borde (Antarctique), a sister to Supreme Novices' Hurdle hero Kopek Des Bordes (No Risk At All), led the concluding session when selling to Guy Petit for €85,000. All told, the aggregate for the Summer Sale was up a massive 24% to €13,311,200 while the average was up by 9% to €36,074. The clearance rate was a healthy 80% [up 14% on last year] while the median was up by €4,000 to €20,000. A press release issued by Arqana after the sale attributed quotes to president Olivier Delloye and CEO Freddy Powell, that read, “If we retrace the sale chronologically, we can highlight the dynamism of the last breeze-up of the season, with a remarkable percentage of horses sold of over 96%. The stores then sparked some great bidding battles, with nine lots making or exceeding €100,000, testifying to the attractiveness of French maternal families. “The high point of the sale was reached yesterday on the day reserved for horses-in-training. Sales in this segment were up by a spectacular 60% on last year, topping the €7 million mark for the first time. All top profiles made very good prices, led by Zekret, who sold for €520,000 to Nicolas Bertran de Balanda and Alex Elliott. He is now set to continue his career over jumps in Ireland. On the flat, Toyotomi sold for €335,000 to Jason Kelly and will join David O'Meara's stable. We hope he follows in the footsteps of Lord Glitters and Mondialiste. Emerging countries such as Libya have also been very active, alongside the Middle East, Australia and the whole of Europe.” It continued, “Several notable transactions also took place in the breeding section, including the purchase of Victoire Des Borde by Guy Petit for €80,000, in foal to Goliath du Berlais, and Ravioli, in foal to Hello Youmzain, sold for €67,000 to Cécile Adonias (Cava Associates). We look forward to seeing you online tomorrow for the Equos Blond Pop-Up sale, before looking ahead to the eagerly anticipated August Sale, which is fast approaching.” The post Sister To Kopek Des Bordes Brings Curtain Down On Strong Arqana Summer Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A shortfall of 20 horses has forced Irish Thoroughbred Marking to abandon plans for the intended barrier trial fixture at Dundalk on Monday, July 7. ITM's international representative Jeremy Greene, who has been the driving force behind the concept, revealed that it would not be financially viable to stage the card if a minimum of 70 entries were not received. Only 50 horses had been entered for next Monday's fixture and leading trainers Jack Davison and Gavin Cromwell, both of whom have been big backers of the initiative since its inception in 2020, admitted to being disappointed by the late cancellation. “I certainly would be a big supporter of the barrier trials and had a few horses for Monday,” said Cromwell, who readied Brownstown in a Naas barrier trial less than a month after that filly landed a Leopardstown maiden on debut. He added, “The barrier trials have been a big addition to us and we've managed to get a couple sold off it as well so we're definitely big supporters of them. I don't know what the reason behind them not filling is as they are a good initiative.” It has been rumoured that some trainers were reluctant to educate their horses in a race scenario on the polytrack at Dundalk but Davison said he wasn't buying such an explanation as an excuse and said the lack of support for the barrier trials on the whole is something that surprises him. “It is disappointing,” Davison said. “I planned on trialing five horses and was in favour of trialling at Dundalk. It's a very consistent surface so I can't see the track itself being an excuse for the races not filling. “I am surprised that the barrier trials are not proving more popular. From a trainer's point of view, you can't beat a mock race to tell you where you are at. With my trainer's cap on, it's nice to be able to bring your horse away and work them within a bunch of horses in a non-racing environment. It's a big advantage, especially for trainers like myself who are operating with smaller strings.” Ahead of the opening barrier trial of the year at Naas, Greene told TDN Europe about the financial constraints involved in running the fixtures, and stated that entry fees generated a huge amount of the income required to cover costs. Confirming the cancellation of Monday's meeting, he simply said, “We needed 70 entries to run but we only got 50. We're way short. We've publicised them on the Ras website and made it very clear about the conditions that need to be met. We have to put the fields together today so we're not going to make it. It's just one of those things.” The post ‘We’re Way Short’ – Lack Of Entries Forces Cancellation Of Dundalk Barrier Trials appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Sweet Azteca and Kopion are set to meet for the first time, their battle coming in a Los Alamitos stakes named for the D. Wayne Lukas trained-multiple stakes winner Great Lady M., the dam of champion Lady's Secret.View the full article

Jaber Abdullah's American Queen (Havana Grey), a €180,000 graduate of May's Tattersalls Ireland Breeze-Up sale, made a start on recouping that investment with an impressive debut performance in Thursday's Selecta Systems EBF Maiden Fillies' Stakes over six furlongs at Haydock. The Richard Hughes trainee, who was originally knocked down for €48,000 as Goffs November foal, went postward as the 11-8 favourite and tracked the leaders from a midfield berth through the early fractions. Making smooth headway from halfway to assume control passing the quarter-mile marker, she quickened clear and was soon over the horizon, romping away to an easy 12-length rout of Lady Gormire (Lope De Vega). Blimey …. 180,000euro breezer (Havana Grey) dazzles on debut in the @BritishEBF fillies' maiden @haydockraces @RHughesracing | @loughnane_billy pic.twitter.com/9TnYep69UP — Racing TV (@RacingTV) July 3, 2025 The post Jaber Abdullah’s Breeze Up Graduate America Queen Romps to Impressive Debut Triumph at Haydock appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Multiple champion jockey Oisin Murphy has been fined £70,000 and banned from driving for 20 months after he appeared at Reading Magistrates' Court on Thursday afternoon where he admitted to driving over the limit for alcohol. The 29-year-old pleaded guilty to one count of driving a motor vehicle while over the prescribed limit of alcohol. He was not asked to plead on another count of failing to cooperate with a preliminary test at the roadside. A four-time champion jockey, Murphy was charged by postal requisition on June 19 after he drove his grey Mercedes A Class off the road and into a tree in Hermitage, Berkshire, in the early hours of April 27. He rode a double at Windsor the following day when employed by trainers Richard Hughes and John and Thady Gosden. Murphy was officially charged on the Thursday of Royal Ascot week, when he rode another double, this time courtesy of Arabian Story and Never So Brave – trained by Saeed bin Suroor and Andrew Balding respectively. He ended the showpiece meeting with five winners in total. Murphy spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address, but apologised via his barrister Alex Di Francesco KC before the verdict was delivered. “Mr Murphy accepts that he made a great error on his part and is remorseful,” Di Francesco said. “He wants to make three apologies: firstly to the passenger and to convey how grateful the circumstances were not worse, he wants to apologise to the public and other road users, and lastly to those who he works with.” The post Multiple Champion Jockey Oisin Murphy Pleads Guilty To Drink Driving Offence appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The fifth installment of the 2025 OwnerView webinar series took place on July 1 focusing on the development of young horses with panelists Niall Brennan (Niall Brennan Stables), David O'Farrell (Ocala Stud), trainer Lindsay Schultz and retired pinhooker Eddie Woods. Gary Falter, the project manager for OwnerView, moderated a panel discussion. The conference is hosted by The Jockey Club and the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association and presented by Bessemer Trust, Keeneland, and Stoll Keenon Ogden. The panel was sponsored by OCD Pellets. According to O'Farrell, it's important to start working with foals as soon as possible if they are nursing and healthy. “You know they would follow their mother if you let them and they'd lead right into the stall,” he said. “But it's hugely important that you go ahead and put the mini halter, the figure eight halter, on and coax them down the shed row and teach them to lead right off the bat.” The panelists agreed that starting horses should be done slowly and quietly. “The slower you go, the better it is. If you get into a rush, it ends up a mess,” Woods said. Brennan concurred. “If you go a little too quickly with it and frighten them, then that's a different story,” he said. “We just take our time, and similar to Eddie, we spend about a week in the stall with the riders just playing with them, putting the tack on them, turning them around, and just judging them individually.” Another theme was starting and working horses together. “We send them out in groups, especially for the first while that they're at the track,” said Schultz. “And if we don't have a group then you might send them out with a pony. The first part of the process, they always go in company.” The next session entitled 'Buying at the Sales and Digital Sales' will be held Aug. 12 at 2 p.m. ET. The full schedule may be viewed here. There is no fee to register for the series, but registration is required. Click here for video of the July 1 webinar. The post OwnerView Webinar Covers The Development of Young Horses appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Lion In Winter has been supplemented for Sunday's G1 Prix Jean Prat at Deauville, which could have a field of up to 10 runners. The most recent win for Coolmore's son of Sea The Stars came over the same distance of seven furlongs (1400m) in last year's G3 Acomb Stakes at York, a race in which subsequent 2,000 Guineas winner Ruling Court (Justify) finished third. Also added to the field at Thursday's confirmation stage was Apollo Fountain (No Nay Never). Trained by Andre Fabre, he won the Listed Prix Yacowlef last season for Juddmonte, who could also be represented by the Harry Charlton-trained Cosmic Year, who was runner-up to fellow Kingman colt Field Of Gold in the Irish 2,000 Guineas. Also among the entries is Godolphin's Shadow Of Light (Lope De Vega) and the Christopher Head-trained Maranoa Charlie (Wootton Bassett), who was recently sold to the Yorkshire-based Bond Thoroughbreds operation. The post The Lion In Winter Added to Prix Jean Prat Field appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

This Saturday sees the inaugural running of the Irish EBF Pat Smullen Stakes at Naas, with the Listed contest having attracted eight runners from seven different stables. Run over a mile, the race is part of the Smullen Series, launched this year by the Irish EBF and consisting of 18 middle-distance races for two- and three-year-olds. Daytona (Wootton Bassett), a winning debutant last month at Gowran Park, is among the field and his trainer Aidan O'Brien was keen to target the race which is named in honour of his late brother-in-law, the nine-time Irish champion jockey. O'Brien said of Daytona, “He won nicely in Gowran the first day when Jack [Cleary] rode him. Wayne [Lordan] rides him in Naas. We think he's a nice horse and we think the trip should suit him. “Obviously, it's in memory of Pat and that makes it very special for us and we're delighted to be running what we think is a nice horse in the race. We like him, we think he's a classy horse.” Joe Foley, chairman of the Irish EBF Chairman, said, “The new Irish EBF Pat Smullen Stakes is the launch pad for the Smullen Series and an opportunity to celebrate the legacy of an Irish racing hero, Pat Smullen. The Smullen Series showcases the Irish EBF's commitment to middle-distance horses where two-year-olds now have a range of races from July to the end of the season each worth €25,000 over a mile and a mile-plus. “For the following season they can link into the existing Spring Series of middle-distance races creating a pathway to the €200,000 Gowran Classic as a three-year-old. The objective of the series is to provide breeders, owners and trainers of middle-distance horses with valuable races for two and three-year-olds while promoting the breeding and racing of stamina horses. We are delighted to have Frances [Crowley] and her family to the races on Saturday to present the new Pat Smullen perpetual trophy.” The post Pat Smullen Stakes Spearheads Series for Middle-Distance Youngsters appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Andrea Atzeni thinks a return to Sha Tin could pay dividends for Colourful King when he lines up in the Class Two Philip Chen Trophy (1,200m) at Sha Tin on Saturday evening. The Blue Point galloper was a two-time winner from five starts in Australia before arriving in Hong Kong, where he has won twice for trainer David Eustace. Beaten on debut at Sha Tin, he has subsequently gone from strength to strength at the Valley, winning a pair of Class Three races over the 1,000m trip before two near...View the full article

In this monthly BH interview, Karen M. Johnson profiles young racing personalities.View the full article