Wandering Eyes

South African jockey teams up with Full Credit in city circuit Class Two before switching focus to coveted HK$26 million feature.View the full article

Wolfgang (NZ) (Puccini) will aim to complete his best season to date on a high on Saturday, chasing another Trentham distance feature in The Frac Club New Zealand St Leger (2500m). A gelding by Puccini, Wolfgang has flourished in his six-year-old season, kicking off with victories at the Hawke’s Bay and Matamata premier meetings, before a successful trip across the Tasman where he finished fourth in the Gr.3 Geelong Cup (2400m). Back at home, he went on to place in the Gr.3 Balmerino Stakes (2000m) and Gr.3 Manawatu Cup (2400m), before picking up the major spoils in the Gr.3 Wellington Cup (3200m), pushing his career earnings well above $500,000. Wolfgang’s consistency continued in the Listed Kaimai Stakes (2000m) with a narrow placing behind What You Wish For, but after finishing at the tail in the Gr.1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) last-start, a second trip to Victoria for next Saturday’s Listed Lexus Roy Higgins (2600m) was ruled out. “If he’d run a little bit better last start, we were going to go to Australia next week, but we just put that run down to not enjoying the right-handed tracks quite as much as left-handed,” his trainer Peter McKay said. “He’s won there (at Ellerslie) and run second, but the rest of his record isn’t that good. “We’ll head down to Wellington instead and that will be his last run for the season, hopefully we can get some greenery around and he can spell in a nice paddock. “He’s been up a wee while, but a lot of my horses can get through a long period as I don’t do a lot of galloping and exhibition gallops, I tend to race them. Hence, they do have a few races, but they seem to have longevity and enjoy their racing. “He’s looking as good now as he was earlier in the season, he’s continued to tick over really well and we’re been very happy with him going into this race.” Joining Wolfgang on the journey from Matamata is Ballon d’Or (NZ) (U S Navy Flag), a promising son of U S Navy Flag who has developed an affinity with the course with two wins and a placing there in his last four starts. Stepping back up to stakes company, the gelding will contest the Gr.2 IRT Wellington Guineas (1400m). “We were hoping to go down there last-start and either win, or be unlucky not too, so we could go on to this race,” McKay said. “It’s come up a really good field, which is as to be expected. “His race last time was out of where he usually likes to be, he had to lead them up all the way so to win like that, I thought was a really good effort. He’s a better horse taking a sit and attacking from there, so we were very happy. “He’s come through that well and he’s going to have to step up another marker to compete against some of these horses, but I believe he’s got it there and deserves a run in the race.” Bred by Valachi Downs, Ballon d’Or was initially purchased as a weanling by Bruce Perry Bloodstock and after being passed in at Karaka in 2023, McKay joined the ownership alongside Elsdon Park owner Lib Petagna. “They bought him as a weanling and he went to the yearling sales, but he’d broken a splint bone, so that was possibly enough to put people off, as well as being on the smaller side,” McKay said. “When I saw him passed in, I got in contact with Lib and asked if he was interested in doing a deal, initially to trial up and sell. It’s working out really well for both parties at the moment.” Completing the stable’s trio at Trentham will be in-form gelding Just Call Me Jonny (NZ) (Eminent), taking his place in The Upper Hutt Club Incorporated (1600m). Bred and raced by Milan Park’s Tony Rider, Just Call Me Jonny broke his maiden two starts back over a mile and nearly backed that up with a game second at Taupo on February 26. “It was a good run (at Taupo), Craig (Grylls, jockey) came in a little bit annoyed with himself that he didn’t stick to the inside run,” McKay said. “There was a lot of speed up-front and they looked like they were going to start stopping on top of him, so he came out to make sure he got a clean run, and the winner’s kicked through on the rail. “We were really happy with that run, and he’ll go back to a mile on the big, roomy track at Wellington. Craig came and worked him this morning and gave him the tick of approval, so he should be going down in fine fettle and should be in the first two or three, if all goes well.” View the full article

A year after disaster struck in a stakes race at Riccarton Park, in-form mare Contemplation Bay (NZ) (Rageese) will be back for redemption as she takes on the Gr.3 South Island Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) on Saturday. The daughter of Rageese was a fast-improving three-year-old, progressing through to an attempt at the Listed NZB Insurance Stakes (1600m), but after just 600m, her saddle slipped severely and she was ruled out of contention. Contemplation Bay swiftly bounced back, winning her final start of the campaign and opening up plenty of opportunities for the following season. Resuming in late August, she failed to show her true ability through the spring, but after trainer Anne Herbert sent her for a spell, she was right back to her best fresh-up in March, winning with authority over 1200m. On the back-up last Thursday at Ashburton, she continued on her winning way, defeating Candycane and putting her hand up for a tilt at the $100,000 feature. “I was certainly hoping that she would come back like this and I’d pretty much written off her last prep,” Herbert said. “I think I made a couple of errors, starting her without a trial first-up and she was just way above herself and over-raced. Then she was possibly still a bit big in her second start, then after that, she just wasn’t racing up to expectations. “When we took her plates off she had very bruised heels, so I elected to put her out, let her get over that and bring her back so we could start again. That’s why she has concussion plates on, but everything is going well so far. “I did have this race in mind, but we got going so late and it came up very quickly for her. Traditionally, I’ve been fairly conservative at not backing horses up and I feel like I’m doing that to her, but she’s eating and she’s very bright, so we’ll box on.” The NZB Insurance Stakes was the mare’s only attempt over a mile, but Herbert holds little concern that she won’t see out the distance. “I always thought she would get the mile, but the only time I’ve tried her was at Riccarton in a three-year-old race and the saddle slipped,” she said. “She had to be pulled up, so we didn’t get to see her run the distance. “The way she is running in her last two starts, I’d be really surprised if she doesn’t get the mile. Just at this stage, we’re playing it race by race, so we’ll see how she goes and make a plan after that. “We can always lower our sights afterwards if it doesn’t come off, but I’m really happy with her.” Contemplation Bay will continue her partnership with Swedish rider Ulrika Holmquist in the race, an association that goes back to her dam, Ysabella Brave, who was also trained by Herbert. Whilst riding as an apprentice in New Zealand, Holmquist rode Ysabella Brave in all but two of her 24 starts, winning four races before the mare suffered a career-ending injury. “Mum was quite a bit smaller with shorter legs and a dumpier body, but she was very, very brave, so she was well-named,” Herbert said. “She was very tenacious and her career was cut short by a bowed tendon, otherwise I’m sure she would’ve gone on and won more races.” A Group One-winning trainer through her career, Herbert is now based in Christchurch and has downsized her operation, only preparing Contemplation Bay and her half-brother for a close friend. “I have a brother of hers that is currently spelling, a three-year-old who hasn’t started yet,” she said. “They are the only ones, they are owned by my best friend Toni Croon so I just do them for her really. “I’m effectively retired, but it gives me something to do and it’s enjoyable, especially when they’re going well.” View the full article

This week, Michael heads to Matamata to catch up with hall of famer, Lance O’Sullivan to discuss his career as a jockey including THAT race, his legendary dad and brother, life as a trainer, and love and loss. And we have a look at the newly launched TAB terminals. Guerin Report – Ep.29 – Ft. Lance O’Sullivan View the full article

What Happy Valley Races Where Happy Valley Racecourse – Wong Nai Chung Rd, Happy Valley, Hong Kong When Wednesday, March 19, 2025 First Race 6:35pm HKT (9:35pm AEDT) Visit Dabble Hong Kong racing returns to the bright lights of Happy Valley Racecourse on Wednesday evening, with a massive nine-part program set for decision. The rail is in the B course throughout the night, and with no rain forecast leading into the meeting, participants can expect a genuine Good 4 surface. The opening event is scheduled to get underway at 6:35pm local time. . Best Bet at Happy Valley: Casa Rochester Casa Rochester caught the eye stepping back in grade at this course and distance on March 5 and should’ve finished much closer than the two-length margin may suggest. The son of Redwood didn’t get much room at a crucial stage, checking off heels before finally making strong inroads in the final furlong. He draws gate five to sit closer in transit, and with a bit more luck when trying to get clear, Casa Rochester should finish off best at a good price with horse racing bookmakers. Best Bet Race 5 – #1 Casa Rochester (5) 4yo Gelding | T: Mark Newnham | J: Lyle Hewitson (61kg) Next Best at Happy Valley: Flying Fortress Flying Fortress looked to be blousing his rivals at Happy Valley on February 19 and was only denied by the judge in a head-bobbing finish in Class 4 company. The son of Shamexpress drops 7.5kg stepping back into Class 3 and shouldn’t be forced back to last this around with the added benefit of barrier two. Harry Bentley looks poised to land in the one-one throughout, and provided Flying Fortress has come on from that effort despite a month between runs, watch for this guy to be storming over the top. Next Best Race 7 – #11 Flying Fortress (2) 4yo Gelding | T: Cody Mo | J: Harry Bentley (53.5kg) Best Value at Happy Valley: Loveisintheair Loveisintheair gave a good account of himself debuting at this course and distance on March 5. The Street Boss gelding was one of the last ones turning for home on that occasion, with the three-year-old peaking on the run after being asked to make a sustained run down the centre of the course. The experienced Hugh Bowman gets legged aboard from barrier eight this time around, and provided this guy can bounce from a tough first-up effort, Loveisintheair warrants respect at a good price with Dabble. Best Value Race 4 – #5 Loveisintheair (8) 3yo Gelding | T: John Size | J: Hugh Bowman (58kg) Wednesday quaddie tips for Happy Valley Happy Valley quadrella selections March 19, 2025 2-4-7-8 1-2-6-10-11 4-6-7-8-9-11 2-3-7-9-10 Horse racing tips View the full article

As the Melbourne and Sydney autumn carnivals continue, Caulfield and Rosehill took centre stage last Saturday, with feature racing taking place throughout the meetings. In this week’s edition of The Follow Files, we have found three runners that kicked off their preparations with strong performances, even though they didn’t win. You can add these runners to your blackbook with your chosen bookmaker and receive notifications before they run. Caulfield Track rating: Good 4 (up to Good 3 after R4) Rail position: +6m entire circuit Race 2: Gold Distaff (1400m) | Time: 1:23.67 Horse to follow: Regal Vow (3rd) Regal Vow from the Charlotte Littlefield stable returned from an 11-week spell at Caulfield, where she went sent around as a +150 favourite with horse racing bookmakers. The daughter of Swear has only won once when fresh, and after she missed the jump slightly, conditions were against her throughout the 1400m journey. Craig Williams attempted to get going at the 400m mark, but with the leaders holding a five-length margin on her, she was never going to catch them late. When to bet: Regal Vow is three from three when second-up throughout her career, and after such a strong finish over 1400m, a rise to 1600m on a bigger track will suit her perfectly next start. https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2025-Caulfield-150325-Race2-Merrigold-John-Sadler-Mark-Zahra.mp4 Race 3: Mystic Journey (1100m) | Time: 1:03.45 Horse to follow: Roll On High (2nd) Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman had three runners in the third race at Caulfield, and their best result was Roll On High, who had to give all of her rivals weight and finished second over 1100m first-up. The daughter of Shamus Award was attempting 1100m for the first time, but found the trip too short after rattling home from the back of the field. The four-year-old mare recorded the fastest last 800m (44.27s), 600m (33.33s), 400m (22.10s), and 200m (11.38s) sections of the entire meeting. When to bet: The stable will have a lot of options for Roll On High second-up, but if they find a similar grade of race over 1200m or 1400m, she will be a great bet. https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2025-Caulfield-150325-Race3-Samangu-Grahame-Begg-Jordan-Childs.mp4 Rosehill Track rating: Good 4 Rail position: True entire circuit Race 10: Benchmark 88 Handicap (1400m) | Time: 1:21.87 Horse to follow: Harlem Queen (3rd) Group 1 placegetter Harlem Queen returned from an 18-week spell at Rosehill on Saturday afternoon, and the Nathan Doyle-trained filly caught the eye with her final 200m section over 1400m. James McDonald settled the daughter of Brutal at the back of the field and chose to swing out wide to the middle of the track before letting her finish off. Even though she finished third, 1400m looked way too short for her. When to bet: With so many options in Sydney, it is expected that Doyle and his team will enter Harlem Queen to a 1600m race second up, which will be an ideal set up for her. https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2025-Rosehill-150325-Race10-Les-Vampires-Gai-Waterhouse-Adrian-Bott-Adam-Hyeronimus.mp4 Top horse racing sites for blackbook features Horse racing tips View the full article

What Sandown Hillside Races Where Sandown Racecourse – 591-659 Princes Hwy, Springvale VIC 3171 When Wednesday, March 19, 2025 First Race 2:30pm AEDT Visit Dabble The Hillside circuit at Sandown Racecourse is once again in action on Wednesday, with an eight-race metropolitan meeting set down for decision on March 19. A warm afternoon is forecast, meaning the Soft 5 track rating at the time of acceptances will almost certainly become a Good 4 on race day. The rail will be out 12m for the entire circuit, with the first event set to jump at 2:30pm AEDT. Best Bet at Sandown: Freight Train Freight Train was nearly bombproof through a three-start spring campaign, winning twice and finishing a close second to Electric Impulse. The four-year-old gelding looks to have plenty of upside, while he is undefeated through two first-up runs. From barrier one, the son of Shamus Award will likely settle midfield, but armed with a strong turn of foot, Freight Train will prove too hard to hold out at a nice price with horse racing bookmakers. Best Bet Race 8 – #2 Freight Train (1) 4yo Gelding | T: Mick Price & Michael Kent (Jnr) | J: Blake Shinn (61.5kg) Next Best at Sandown: Zloties The Grahame Begg-trained Zloties comes to Sandown second-up, and following a strong fresh run over 1200m, the 1300m looks ideal. The Snitzel mare won when second-up into her spring campaign at this track and trip in similar company, and there looks to be no reason she cannot repeat the dose on Wednesday. Jordan Childs will have her towards the rear of the field upon settling, but a blistering turn of foot makes Zloties hard to beat in the quaddie opener. Next Best Race 5 – #5 Zloties (5) 5yo Mare | T: Grahame Begg | J: Jordan Childs (59.5kg) Best Value at Sandown: Gates Gates was always going to find the 1500m a bit sharp first-up from a 45-week spell, but second-up at 1800m should have him fighting out the finish. As a three-year-old, the son of Frankel finished 2.5 lengths off multiple Group 1 winner Riff Rocket over 2000m, suggesting that if the four-year-old is anywhere near his best, the $15 with PlayUp is the wrong price. If Koby Jennings can have him in clear air in the home straight, Gates has the ability to overhaul his rivals late. Best Value Race 7 – #7 Gates (10) 4yo Gelding | T: Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman | J: Koby Jennings (59.5kg) Wednesday quaddie tips for Sandown Sandown quadrella selections Wednesday, March 19, 2025 5-10 1-4-7-12 4-7-9-12-13 2-5 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Bella Nipotina winning the Russell Balding Stakes. Photo: Bradleyphotos.com.au After claiming four Group 1 wins in an illustrious 57-start career, the decision has been made to retire superstar mare Bella Nipotina. Ciaron Maher Racing took to X to confirm the news in a statement that read in part: “On behalf of the ownership group, we are proud to officially announce the retirement of our multiple Group 1- winner and Everest champion, Bella Nipotina. “Affectionately known as ‘Bella’, she joined the team in May 2021 and has since graced the track an incredible 40 times, securing 10 wins, 8 seconds and 10 thirds. In doing so etched her name in history, becoming Australia’s second-highest earning racehorse with an extraordinary $22,757,625 in prizemoney.” Trainer Ciaron Maher shared a comment in the post. “Bella was the most consistent and toughest racehorse I have ever had the pleasure to train,” said Maher. “She has given me some of my biggest thrills in racing and has had a wonderful career. I feel honoured to have been part of her journey, and the last 12 months have shown the true makings of a genuine Australian sprinter.” The statement continued to list some of the mighty mares’ greatest achievements across Australia, including wins in the Manikato Stakes, Doomben 10,000, Kingsford Smith Cup and Tatt’s Tiara. Her career was then highlighted by a stunning victory in the Everest (1200m) of 2024, cementing herself as one of Australia’s premier sprinters as she showcased her talents in the richest race on turf. “She has been a marvel, an inspiration, and a true champion. “As Bella embarks on her next chapter in the breeding barn, we have no doubt she will pass on her speed, toughness, and grit to the next generation. “If her foals inherit even half of her qualities, they will be a force to be reckoned with.” Horse racing news View the full article

The 2025 Golden Slipper final field has been declared, featuring 16 two-year-olds and two emergency runners. Wodeton, trained by Chris Waller, is the favourite, drawing well in gate 2. The Golden Slipper Day card at Rosehill Gardens will feature five Group 1 races, with the $5 million Golden Slipper Stakes (1200m) as the main event. […] The post Golden Slipper Stakes 2025 Field, Barriers & Odds Update: Favourite Wodeton in Gate 2 appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

Golden Slipper favourite, Wodeton. Photo: Bradley Photos The time-honoured Group 1 Golden Slipper (1200m) headlines the action at Rosehill on Saturday afternoon, with a capacity field of 16 two-year-olds set to battle it out in Australia’s premier juvenile sprint. The $5 million feature consists of 11 boys and five fillies set to line up, including the long-standing favourite with horse racing bookmakers Wodeton who remains at the top of the market at $4.50 after drawing barrier two. James McDonald keeps the ride despite suffering defeat in the Group 2 Todman Stakes (1200m) on March 8, and according to stable representative Charlie Duckworth, McDonald will be instructed to ride the son of Wootton Bassett cold throughout the journey. Godolphin filly Tempted ($5.00) was the big winner post-barrier after securing gate one, with the Group 2 Reisling Stakes (1200m) winner set to gain the economical run throughout under Melbourne-based hoop Blake Shinn. Skyhook is on the one-week backup after claiming the Group 3 Pago Pago (1200m) last Saturday and continues to firm as an $8 chance with Neds after drawing barrier eight. Rivellino ($9.00) is the only other runner holding single figures in the betting, while Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes (1200m) winner Devil Night is a $11.00 chance with BlondeBet as he attempts to be the first horse to do the two-year-old double since Sepoy in 2011. The chances don’t end there, however, with a stack of hopes at each-way price throughout betting, with the likes of North England, Within The Law and Marhoona all opening at $15.00 apiece with Dabble. The 2025 Golden Slipper is one of five massive Group 1 races set to take place at Rosehill on Saturday afternoon, alongside the Group 1 Ranvet Stakes (2000m) and Group 1 Rosehill Guineas (2000m). 2025 Golden Slipper Final Field 1. Rivellino (3) T: Kris Lees J: Hugh Bowman W: 56.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Brown Sex: Colt Sire: Too Darn Hot (GB) Dam: Intrinsic +1000 +250 2. Devil Night (11) T: Michael, John & Wayne Hawkes J: Michael Dee W: 56.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Chestnut Sex: Colt Sire: Extreme Choice Dam: Mischief Night +1200 +300 3. North England (9) T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott J: Tim Clark W: 56.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Bay or Brown Sex: Colt Sire: Farnan Dam: Our Belisa +1600 +400 4. Tycoon Star (5) T: Ben, Will & JD Hayes J: Mark Zahra W: 56.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Written Tycoon Dam: Miss Iano +2500 +625 5. West Of Swindon (4) T: Michael, John & Wayne Hawkes J: Tyler Schiller W: 56.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Wootton Bassett (GB) Dam: Fife +2000 +500 6. Beiwacht (16) T: James Cummings J: Adam Hyeronimus W: 56.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Bivouac Dam: Metastasio +3000 +750 7. Skyhook (8) T: Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou J: Kerrin McEvoy W: 56.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Chestnut Sex: Colt Sire: Written Tycoon Dam: Madame Pauline +650 +163 8. Wodeton (2) T: Chris Waller J: James McDonald W: 56.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Wootton Bassett (GB) Dam: Fiera Vista +360 -111.11 9. King Of Pop (18) T: Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou J: Zac Lloyd W: 56.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Farnan Dam: Za Zi Ba +1800 +450 10. Quietly Arrogant (7) T: Peter Snowden J: Tommy Berry W: 56.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Chestnut Sex: Colt Sire: Capitalist Dam: Single Sapphire +2500 +625 11. Farcited (17) T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott J: Joshua Parr W: 56.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Farnan Dam: I Am Excited +10000 +2500 12. Within The Law (13) T: Bjorn Baker J: Jason Collett W: 54.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Bay Sex: Filly Sire: Lucky Vega (IRE) Dam: Contract Signed +1000 +250 13. Tempted (1) T: James Cummings J: Blake Shinn W: 54.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Chestnut Sex: Filly Sire: Street Boss (USA) Dam: Calliope +450 +113 14. Bellazaine (15) T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott J: Regan Bayliss W: 54.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Bay or Brown Sex: Filly Sire: Zousain Dam: Benella +1600 +400 15. Military Tycoon (12) T: Ciaron Maher J: Thomas Stockdale W: 54.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Chestnut Sex: Filly Sire: Written Tycoon Dam: Military Reign +2500 +625 16. Marhoona (6) T: Michael Freedman J: Damian Lane W: 54.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Bay Sex: Filly Sire: Snitzel Dam: Salma +1200 +300 17(e). Alabama Magic (14) T: Brett Cavanough J: Braith Nock (a) W: 54.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Bay Sex: Filly Sire: Alabama Express Dam: Makfi Lass +20000 +5000 18(e). Nepotism (10) T: Michael, John & Wayne Hawkes J: W: 54.5kg Age: 2YO Colour: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Brutal (NZ) Dam: Brigite +8000 +2000 Horse racing news View the full article

Fangirl. Photo: Bradleyphotos.com.au One year after a life-threatening leg injury forced her out of the race, the resilient Fangirl is set to chase another Group 1 victory in the George Ryder Stakes (1500m) on Saturday. Now back at her best, she triumphed over stablemate Via Sistina first-up in the Group 2 Apollo Stakes (1400m), before finishing closely behind the mare in the Group 1 Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m) at Randwick. “Fangirl has touched our hearts, she missed the race last year because of injury and she was in a bad way, so it’s great to have her back racing well and winning,” Waller told Racing NSW. “She was favourite in the race when the problem happened last year, she’s a pretty special horse to us. “The Apollo Stakes was a special win and she pushed Via Sistina last start. And I think both horses needed it.” Fangirl galloped alongside Via Sistina at Rosehill on Saturday morning, with Waller pleased with the workouts of both mares. “I’ll be interested to see how Fangirl runs because I think it’s her pet distance,” he said. “She ran in it two years ago and wasn’t beaten far by Anamoe, and not everything went her way. “She’s a bigger, stronger version of that, so I think she’s ready to peak.” Horse racing news View the full article

Ashley Morgan and Private Harry winning the inaugural edition of the $3 million Magic Millions Sunlight Plate. Photo: Darren Winningham Undefeated colt Private Harry is set to make his Group 1 debut in the Group 1 Galaxy (1100m) at Rosehill on Saturday. Trainer Nathan Doyle has had his sights set on the race for Private Harry since his last-start victory in the Magic Millions Sunlight 3YO Plate (1100m) at the Sunshine Coast in early January. Doyle reported that the colt has had a trouble-free preparation, which included two barrier trial wins at Rosehill and on his home track at Newcastle. “He didn’t have long off, just ten days,” said Doyle, who is aiming for his first Group 1 win as a trainer. “He held a little bit of residual fitness, so he’ll be going to the race more forward than a horse that’s normally first-up. “You can’t go in underdone, you’ve got to be primed and ready to go. “At the same time, a few of them will be first-up, and the second favourite [Briasa] is likely to be first-up as well. “So he’s probably meeting them on level pegs a bit there, and we’re really happy with the horse.” In the Magic Millions Sunlight, Private Harry convincingly defeated Lady Of Camelot and Arabian Summer. Doyle added, “I think the best thing is the form lines have held up around him, they’ve been quite strong out of that Sunlight as well. Even when you go back to Hawkesbury, he won by seven lengths, and the horse who ran second that day has run second in a Group 2.” Doyle believes The Galaxy is the right race for Private Harry’s first Group 1 test. “You’re not to know until you really step them up. You don’t see how fast they can go at trackwork, but what we see from him, he’s matured.” Private Harry is the $2.80 favourite with horse racing betting sites for The Galaxy. Horse racing news View the full article

Maharba. (Photo by George Sal/Racing Photos) Grahame Begg remains optimistic about Maharba’s chances in Saturday’s Group 1 William Reid Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley, aiming to secure a Group 1 victory for the sprinter. Despite narrowly missing out in last year’s Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m), Begg believes the four-year-old gelding can excel at the highest level, despite a recent setback in the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m). “He drew the wrong part of the track that day,” Begg explained to Racing.com. “It was just a non-race for him. He got back on the inside and when that happens, you get dictated to. He didn’t get into any rhythm whatsoever in the race. “He got beaten six lengths and on paper it looks disappointing, but we thought he was going well going into the Newmarket, so there’s no reason not to run him. “Obviously, Jimmysstar is going to be very hard to beat, but with a smaller field there might be less pressure in the race. Going to weight-for-age and so on, there are a few variables.” Maharba was a $17 hope with horse racing betting sites for the William Reid Stakes before markets closed ahead of Tuesday night’s barrier draw. Horse racing news View the full article

Politicians and key industry figures are pushing for Pleasanton racetrack to extend stabling and training at the facility beyond the current March 25 deadline and to potentially hold a race-meet there this summer, a vote on which could be held during Alameda County Agricultural Fair Association board meeting Tuesday. While in some quarters, hopes are high that a vote will go ahead and the extension granted, such an effort is far from a slam dunk. Alameda County Fairgrounds management argues that any extension would be made difficult because of long-standing regulatory wastewater and stormwater discharge problems at the facility. There also exist open-ended questions of where funding for extended stabling and training would come from. There are currently around 340 to 350 horses stabled at the track, say officials. In a letter last week to Alameda County Fair CEO Jerome Hoban, David Haubert, the Alameda County Supervisor for the Pleasanton area, asked for an extension to the stabling agreement to the end of September, primarily to give the families living there time to reorganize. “I am reaching out regarding the families currently residing at the Alameda County Fairgrounds who are at risk of displacement. These families moved to Pleasanton last Fall with the promise to remain much longer than just a few months,” Haubert wrote. “Forcing them to leave prematurely would create undue stress and crisis, needlessly exacerbating homelessness and unemployment for an already vulnerable population. Additionally, pulling their children out of school mid-year could disrupt their education, potentially preventing them from completing the school year,” Haubert added. According to Haubert, his request has the support of other major politicians in the area, including state senator Jerry McNerney. Last month, U.S. Congressman Eric Swalwell, who represents eastern Alameda County, told CBS news that he has long supported efforts to maintain and expand racing at the track. “It's also, economically, a driver that allows everything else that happens at the fair to happen, and so it is disappointing that we could lose this. I actually had worked to support to expand horse racing in Alameda County to year-round,” Swalwell told CBS. Reached Monday, Haubert said that he would be holding an ad hoc committee meeting before Tuesday's scheduled fair board meeting to discuss the matter. “We're trying to get to the bottom of how this could work. I'm confident that if there is a way, we have the will to do it,” Haubert told the TDN. “It gets complicated. I don't need to know all the details, other than to ask the question: 'Can we, if at all possible, keep people and their jobs in place?'” If an extension is indeed granted, one key question would be who pays for it. Currently, 50% of the stabling and training expenses at Pleasanton come from purses, while Santa Anita and Del Mar pay the other half. According to Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) president and CEO, Bill Nader, it will have cost some $2 million to stable and train the horses at Pleasanton since Dec. 26 through the end of March, along with shipping costs. When asked if Southern California racing interests would continue to pay for Pleasanton to remain open after March 25, Nader said that he couldn't comment as he hadn't yet seen a formal request for such a plan. Long-time California owner George Schmitt believes that several members of the Alameda County Fair board have changed their minds since they last voted to end stabling and training at the facility in March—enough to swing the vote the other way. “Unless somebody gets to some of the board members that have changed their minds since last month, they will vote [to extend stabling beyond March]. But I know there are people who are putting a lot of pressure on them to not have it,” said Schmitt. Alongside extended stabling and training at the facility, Schmitt would like to see Pleasanton host a fair meet there this summer, between June 13 and July 6. In January, The California Association of Racing Fairs (CARF) voted unanimously not to apply for racing dates in 2025. One of the reasons CARF gave for not applying were operational deficits left from the prior year's Golden State Racing meet at Pleasanton. Indeed, the purse overpayment at the end of the meet was around $800,000. Schmitt outlined a business plan he has devised with owner-breeder John Harris to essentially bankroll the proposed summer meet at Pleasanton (and potentially for other fair meets this summer as well). He also downplayed the argument that fair meets just aren't profitable. “To be honest with you, the only reason people show that horse racing is losing money is because of the way they do their cost accounting,” said Schmitt. Hoban, however, warned that permitting for ongoing stabling might be extremely difficult due to the facility's long-standing wastewater management and stormwater discharge problems. Last week, the Alameda County General Services Agency wrote a damning letter to the Alameda County Fairground Association criticizing their handling of an inspection last July by the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) leading to the issuance of a notice of violation (NOV) related to “waste management, stormwater discharge, and unpermitted horse racing operations.” The NOV required a swift corrective action response by the fairground. “While documents were submitted by the dates, they were and continue to be found inadequate by the RWQCB and numerous meetings and communications with the agency took place to rectify the situation. Nearly eight months later, the corrective actions to comply are still not complete,” the letter states. The fairground's wastewater problems aren't anything new. All the way back to 2014, congressman Swalwell wrote a critical letter to the fair association after untreated animal waste was discharged into the municipal storm drain, and Alameda Creek by extension. “I am deeply concerned by the detrimental effects this could have on ground water quality, the ecosystem, and to human health,” Swalwell wrote. Are the facility's ongoing wastewater problems prohibitive to continued stabling and training at the facility after March 25? The door appears left open. The manager of the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Board reportedly told NBC Bay Area last week that the agency is willing to come up with a water plan to keep the race track open and have not set any strict deadlines. Hoban—who said he hadn't seen Haubert's letter prior to Monday—pushed back against some other claims in the letter, including that families would be displaced and children removed from schools mid-semester. “There could families that do leave because they follow their dad or the horses or so on,” said Hoban. “But there's been no evictions. We're not even contemplating evictions at our RV campgrounds where the families are. So I don 't know what he's talking about.” The post NorCal Political Figures Push to Extend Pleasanton Stabling Beyond March Deadline appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

During the March 17 BloodHorse Monday podcast, Flying Dutchmen president Hunter Rankin confirmed that Tampa Bay Derby (G3) winner Owen Almighty will continue on the Kentucky Derby (G1) trail rather than wait for the Pat Day Mile (G2).View the full article

By Michael Guerin Star pacer Don’t Stop Dreaming has changed stables just two weeks out from the $1million Race by Betcha at Cambridge on Friday, April 4. The last-start Menangle winner has left trainers Mark and Nathan Purdon and joined Hayden and Amanda Cullen and will debut for them in Friday’s $60,000 Auckland Co-Op Taxis City of Auckland Free-For-All at Alexandra Park. Don’t Stop Dreaming faces a second line draw for the Cullens starting alongside stablemate We Walk By Faith in the 2200m mobile which is stacked with the majority of New Zealand’s best pacers. Sooner The Bettor returns from a luckless Miracle Mile sixth and also starts alongside Mo’unga on the second line while Republican Party again faces the outside of the front line draw. While not being drawn on the change of stables for Don’t Stop Dreaming co-trainer Nathan Purdon says he is looking forward to the Free-For-All with Chase A Dream, who gets barrier 1 this Friday. “He really needed last week’s run and while he will be better for this week too we think he can go close,” says Purdon. The night’s two other main features are the Harness Million for the three-year-old pacers and Marketplace will start red hot after drawing inside Rubira in the $200,000 NZB Standardbred final for the Colts and Geldings (7.59pm). “We all know how good Marketplace is but Rubira beat him by going forward last week and I see no reason for us not to do that again,” says Purdon. Add in Got The Chocolates and Greased Lightnin and the race has good numbers and decent depth. The $150,000 fillies pace (7.34pm) is shorn of last Friday’s stunning winner Beside Me as she is ineligible but includes the other impressive filly from last Friday in Stella Rouge, who will start favourite from barrier 5. The Cullens have a strong hand in that Listed race too with Winelight (1) and Arafura (2) over the 2200m mobile. The meeting also hosts two $35,000 Metro Finals for the Trotters and Pacers while Race 4, the RSM Mobile Pace, sees the return of last season’s northern juvenile star Captain Sampson after two recent workouts. To see Auckland’s fields for Friday night click here View the full article

Multiple Group One-winner Snazzytavi has had an acute episode of laminitis and is unlikely to race again. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Cambridge Stud are hoping Snazzytavi will continue to draw on all her fighting qualities to win out in her battle against illness. The multiple Group One-winning daughter of Tavistock is currently doing as well as can be expected, receiving the best of local and international care. “She remains at Matamata Vets where she has been for the last three or four weeks and has had an acute episode of laminitis, which is a chronic condition,” Cambridge’s Chief Executive Officer Henry Plumptre said. “They got on to it pretty quickly and engaged the services of a Kentucky vet, Scott Morrison, who is overseeing her rehab and she’s got a very good team at MVS looking after her. “She’s got to the point now where she is out in a small paddock for six hours a day and able to walk around and got specialists shoes on and casts on her front legs for support. “She is bright and eating and drinking well and it’s now a case of waiting for the inflammation to disappear.” The stud is banking on Snazzytavi’s makeup to be a vital contributor to her recovery. “What makes her a little bit different to a lot of horses that contract laminitis is that she has an amazing constitution, she’s very tough and her mental state is good,” Plumptre said. “She is doing as well as she can possibly be, she’s very unlikely to return to a racecourse but she is obviously a very valuable breeding prospect.” Snazzytavi won nine of her 15 starts for trainers Graham Richardson and Rogan Norvall, including Group One victories in the Zabeel Classic (2000m) and Livamol Classic (2040m). Horse racing news View the full article

On the March 17 BloodHorse Monday: Flying Dutchmen's Hunter Rankin discusses Owen Almighty's Kentucky Derby status, Louie Rabaut and Sean Collins recap the Virginia Derby, and Frank Angst recaps the OBS March Sale and Oaklawn Park's show bets.View the full article

Leica Lucy will contest Saturday’s $1 million Group 1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m) at Trentham. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Robbie Patterson couldn’t have wished for a smoother preparation with Leica Lucy into Saturday’s Group 1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m) at Trentham, where the filly will make her Kiwi swansong as hot favourite in the $1 million feature. Leica Lucy made light work of her rivals on debut back in November, and from that point forward, she has been dominant. Along the way, the daughter of Derryn has won the Group 3 Eulogy Stakes (1600m), Group 3 New Zealand Bloodstock Desert Gold Stakes (1600m), and Group 2 David and Karyn Ellis Fillies’ Classic (2000m) and her three-length demolition in the Group 2 Lowland Stakes (2100m). Patterson shared plenty of admiration for his young star, who secured her status as NZB Filly of the Year with an unassailable lead over sprinter Alabama Lass. “She’s leap-frogged from a maiden race, into a three-year-old race and she’s been in Group races ever since,” he said. “She’s just taken every step in her stride, it’s been unbelievable really and for nothing to go wrong. “We knew we had a good horse, but you don’t expect everything to go right all the time and it just has. It’s been an incredible climb, you don’t usually get that with a horse but she’s just one out of the box. “I’m just counting down for the next four days to the race really.” Since her Lowland romp, it has been business as usual for Leica Lucy back in New Plymouth, as she attempts to become Patterson’s second Oaks winner after Legs’ triumph in 2006, while training in partnership with Kevin Gray. “We’ve done pretty much the same thing as she has done between all of her races, I’ve just given her an extra gallop than she did leading into the Lowland,” Patterson said. “She had a good hit-out this morning but she’s come off the track bouncing, she’s a very happy horse and I couldn’t be happier with her.” Starting at $1.40, $1.30 and $1.10 with horse racing betting sites in her last three appearances, the pressure and expectation to win has been a constant for Patterson, a factor he won’t miss when Leica Lucy heads to Chris Waller’s stable in Sydney after the Oaks. “It will take the pressure off me I will admit, when you’ve got a $1.30 shot going around in a Group One,” he said. “I am looking forward to seeing her go to Australia to tell the truth, it’s where she belongs and I can’t be there all the time with just one horse. It’s fantastic for the owners Pete and Heather Crofskey here in New Zealand, it’s great for them to have a good horse racing over there. “We’ve got a great association with Ozzie Kheir (part-owner) as well now, he’s been fantastic to deal with and if she can go there and do well, you never know, he may want another one off us another time.” Horse racing news View the full article

Robbie Patterson couldn’t have wished for a smoother preparation with Leica Lucy (NZ) (Derryn) into Saturday’s Gr.1 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai New Zealand Oaks (2400m) at Trentham where the filly will make her Kiwi swansong as hot favourite in the $1 million feature. Leica Lucy made light work of her rivals on debut back in November, and from that point forward, she has been dominant. Along the way, the daughter of Derryn has won the Gr.3 Eulogy Stakes (1600m), Gr.3 New Zealand Bloodstock Desert Gold Stakes (1600m), and Gr.2 David and Karyn Ellis Fillies’ Classic (2000m) and her three-length demolition in the Gr.2 Lowland Stakes (2100m). Patterson shared plenty of admiration for his young star, who secured her status as NZB Filly of the Year with an unassailable lead over sprinter Alabama Lass. “She’s leap-frogged from a maiden race, into a three-year-old race and she’s been in Group races ever since,” he said. “She’s just taken every step in her stride, it’s been unbelievable really and for nothing to go wrong. “We knew we had a good horse, but you don’t expect everything to go right all the time and it just has. It’s been an incredible climb, you don’t usually get that with a horse but she’s just one out of the box. “I’m just counting down for the next four days to the race really.” Since her Lowland romp, it has been business as usual for Leica Lucy back in New Plymouth, as she attempts to become Patterson’s second Oaks winner after Legs’ triumph in 2006, while training in partnership with Kevin Gray. “We’ve done pretty much the same thing as she has done between all of her races, I’ve just given her an extra gallop than she did leading into the Lowland,” Patterson said. “She had a good hit-out this morning but she’s come off the track bouncing, she’s a very happy horse and I couldn’t be happier with her.” Starting at $1.40, $1.30 and $1.10 in her last three appearances, the pressure and expectation to win has been a constant for Patterson, a factor he won’t miss when Leica Lucy heads to Chris Waller’s stable in Sydney after the Oaks. “It will take the pressure off me I will admit, when you’ve got a $1.30 shot going around in a Group One,” he said. “I am looking forward to seeing her go to Australia to tell the truth, it’s where she belongs and I can’t be there all the time with just one horse. It’s fantastic for the owners Pete and Heather Crofskey here in New Zealand, it’s great for them to have a good horse racing over there. “We’ve got a great association with Ozzie Kheir (part-owner) as well now, he’s been fantastic to deal with and if she can go there and do well, you never know, he may want another one off us another time.” Earlier on Oaks Day, Patterson will also have a representative in the Gr.3 Wentwood Grange Cuddle Stakes (1600m) in Our Jumala (NZ) (Zed). The Zed mare won comfortably over the mile distance at New Plymouth earlier this month, setting her up well for a shot at further black-type after placing in last year’s Gr.3 Manawatu Breeders’ Stakes (2100m). “She’s a last-start winner and has thrived since then, she worked super this morning,” Patterson said. “Any easing in the track would really help her, but I’m not sure we’ll be getting that.” The $65,000 contest for maidens as at midnight on December 2 is a perfect fit for One Bold Gigolo (NZ) (The Bold One), after winning his last-two starts over 1400m in convincing style. “He’s going to go to the special maiden but he’s won his last two, he’s a very progressive horse and will be a definite chance with a nice barrier,” Patterson said. Earlier in the week, the weather will play a role at Waverley’s Wednesday meeting, with Marketa (NZ) (Eminent) and Shameless Boy (NZ) (Shamexpress) engaged for the stable. Marketa was game in defeat behind stablemate Hot Mama at New Plymouth last-start, which was only her second appearance to the races. The daughter of Eminent will contest the Treadwell Gordon (1400m), while two-time winner Shameless Boy takes his place in the Nutrinza – Animal Nutrition (1400m). “We just had a slight niggle with Marketa that set us back a little bit after her last start, it’ll be interesting to see what the track is like tomorrow because there is a bit of rain around,” Patterson said. “A bit of easing in the ground may help her, but it will be a wait and see really with that month between races. “Shameless Boy would appreciate a wet track, if he can get that, he’ll be pretty competitive I’d say.” View the full article

Cambridge Stud are hoping Snazzytavi (NZ) (Tavistock) will continue to draw on all her fighting qualities to win out in her battle against illness. The multiple Group One-winning daughter of Tavistock is currently doing as well as can be expected, receiving the best of local and international care. “She remains at Matamata Vets where she has been for the last three or four weeks and has had an acute episode of laminitis, which is a chronic condition,” Cambridge’s Chief Executive Officer Henry Plumptre said. “They got on to it pretty quickly and engaged the services of a Kentucky vet, Scott Morrison, who is overseeing her rehab and she’s got a very good team at MVS looking after her. “She’s got to the point now where she is out in a small paddock for six hours a day and able to walk around and got specialists shoes on and casts on her front legs for support. “She is bright and eating and drinking well and it’s now a case of waiting for the inflammation to disappear.” The stud is banking on Snazzytavi’s makeup to be a vital contributor to her recovery. “What makes her a little bit different to a lot of horses that contract laminitis is that she has an amazing constitution, she’s very tough and her mental state is good,” Plumptre said. “She is doing as well as she can possibly be, she’s very unlikely to return to a racecourse but she is obviously a very valuable breeding prospect.” Snazzytavi won nine of her 15 starts for trainers Graham Richardson and Rogan Norvall, including Group One victories in the Zabeel Classic (2000m) and Livamol Classic (2040m). On a brighter note, the stud’s crack Australian-based mare Joliestar (Zoustar) is progressing well toward another elite level assignment while plans are afoot for recent acquisition Pivotal Ten to also cross the Tasman later this year. Trained by Chris Waller, Joliestar won last season’s Gr.1 Thousand Guineas (1600m) at Caulfield and last time out blitzed her rivals in the Gr.1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) at Flemington. “She’s back in Sydney for the TJ Smith (Gr.1, 1200m) and then she’ll probably have a break,” Plumptre said. “There’s been a lot of talk about Ascot, but that’s probably a bridge too far at the moment and our feeling is that if she’s to have a crack at another big target, then it’s likely to be The Everest in the spring.” Cambridge Stud purchased a 50 per cent holding in Pivotal Ten (NZ) (Ten Sovereigns) from owner Colin Wightman following a hat-trick of southern Listed wins for trainer-rider Samantha Wynne and was unplaced in The NZB Kiwi (1500m) in her first run beyond 1400m. “The target wasn’t just the Kiwi, from a Cambridge Stud perspective it was more about the long-term future,” Plumptre said. “She’s a very good-looking filly and I think next year as a four-year-old she’ll probably be a six-furlong mare, that would be her specialist trip for me. “The likelihood is that she will go to Australia and be trained there for the spring. “She flew back to Christchurch after The Kiwi for a spell and it’s sensible that she be in Melbourne to kick off her next preparation.” Meanwhile, Jaarffi (NZ) (Iffraaj) has also gone for a deserved break following her close second in the Gr.1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders Stakes (1600m). “She’s probably a little unlucky not to be a Group One winner and has always been a difficult mare to train, from the point of view of keeping condition on her,” Plumptre said. “As a five-year-old, this is the first time she’s stood up to the training regime. Lance (Noble) has done a fantastic job with her, and she’ll race on and there will be some lovely races for her around that mile trip.” View the full article

18 March 2025 NZB’s 2025 National Online Yearling Sale is now live, with the quality 102-lot catalogue available to view on Gavelhouse Plus.   For the fifth year, the digital edition to NZB’s National Yearling Sales Series is set to be conducted on the premium online platform Gavelhouse Plus with bidding closing on Tuesday 1 April from 6pm (NZT).   The Sale is a proven source of stakes winners including the likes of recent Group Two winner Hitabell (NZ) (Embellish), Southern Warrior (NZ) (Belardo), Bolshoi Star (NZ) (Russian Revolution) and TAB Karaka Millions 2YO runner Daylight Robbery (NZ) (Super Seth) to name a few.  In form trainer Stephen Marsh has found the Sale to be a happy hunting ground in the past. “It’s a Sale trainers can take seriously, you can buy genuine horses and go on to have decent success on the track.” Group Two winner Hitabell & connections (NZ) “There is good value to be found too, we paid $9,500 for Hitabell and she’s got blacktype to her name already. We’re looking forward to the season ahead with her.” All lots purchased from the National Online Yearling Sale are eligible to be nominated for NZB’s lucrative Karaka Millions Series. Just nine short months after they make their virtual sale-ring debut, graduates of the online sale can compete for a share of the $1m TAB Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m), followed by the $1.5m TAB Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) as well as the NZB Mega Maiden Bonus Series with $1m in bonuses up for grabs across 40 maiden races each season. “There have been many great, proven racing prospects that have come from this online session,” commented NZB Bloodstock Sales Manager Kane Jones. “It is also the last chance to purchase a horse eligible for the $3.5m Karaka Millions Series, and with the two-year-old race only nine months later, the Online Sale presents buyers with a distinct advantage.” “Just look at Daylight Robbery and the thrill he gave his owners in the 2025 edition of the race,” he added. “He’s a horse we’ll see plenty of in the future.” Renowned vendors from across New Zealand are supporting the Sale, with a contingent of 44 proven, emerging, and first-season sires progeny offered. Buyers can secure yearlings by the likes of Almanzor, Proisir, Ocean Park, Tarzino, Vanbrugh, Ace High plus emerging and first-season sires Satono Aladdin, Super Seth, Noverre, Hello Youmzain, Wrote, Sword of State and Armory. Bidding will run for a five-day period, commencing Friday 28 March with the first lot closing on Tuesday 1 April at 6pm (NZT). Buyers must register on Gavelhouse Plus in advance in order to gain bidding approval.  All horses will be inspected by NZB agents who are available to assist buyers with enquiries. Buyers are also welcome to join the on-farm parades commencing Thursday 20 March, with the schedule now available to view here.  View the 102-lot catalogue here. For more information, contact Bloodstock Sales Manager Kane Jones (+64 27 274 4985 or kane.jones@nzb.co.nz), Sales Representative Patrick Cunningham (+64 21 181 5898 or Patrick.Cunningham@nzb.co.nz) or Andrew Buick (+64 27 555 0640 or Andrew.Buick@nzb.co.nz).  View the full article

After nearly two hours of debate and testimony, Florida's House Commerce Committee on Monday passed bill HB 105, which would eliminate a requirement that Florida's two remaining racetracks hold races in order to offer alternative forms of gambling, such as slot machines, card rooms and casinos. The bill, sponsored by Republican Representative Adam Anderson is now positioned to go to the full house. A similar bill has been filed in the Senate but has yet to be heard in committees. “Today's vote in the House Commerce Committee was disappointing,” said Lonny Powell, CEO of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association, in a statement. “Let me be clear: The latest changes to HB 105 are not a compromise–they are designed to scuttle Florida's vital Thoroughbred industry. No matter how our opponents try to spin it, this bill decouples live racing from voter-approved gaming requirements. This means fewer races, fewer jobs, and fewer opportunities for the hardworking Floridians devoted to this industry, including the passionate horsemen and women from the farms and barns who testified today. “If this bill passes, it will ripple across the entire state economy, gutting a major industry and sending Florida jobs and horses to other states and our dollars to Toronto. This industry has helped power Florida's economy for generations, and we must not allow bad special-interest policy to dismantle it.” Several changes to the original bill were made, including a provision that the tracks must continue to race until 2030 if decoupling passes. If they intend to close the tracks they must give the state a three-year notice and that notice cannot be submitted until July 1, 2027. Proponents of the bill tried to argue that passage of HB105 would actually benefit horse racing. Representative Chase Tramont asked Anderson “what problem are we trying to solve with this bill?” Anderson responded: “It actually guarantees racing for the next five years. There hasn't been any track that I have talked to that has said they intend to stop racing. This bill is structured in a way to support (the breeding industry), to help prop it up so it can stand independently from slots and cards and thrive on its own.” Anderson failed to adequately explain how that was possible. When questioned by Representative Michele Raynor as to whether the bill would benefit 1/ST Racing and no one else, Anderson again trued to convince his fellow lawmakers that this was a win-win for everyone. “This supports an industry as a whole,” Anderson said. “Not just one or two entities…We're supporting this industry in a number of areas and insuring that it has multiple options to succeed. We are removing a barrier, where right now the industry is controlled by just two tracks, two entities. This bill will provide the ability for these owners to transfer their licenses. If they don't want to stay in the horse business, right now they have to. The only option they have is to close up shop. This will provide a pathway for them to transfer that license to someone who wants to run a racetrack or move their license to anther location that makes more economic sense for their business model.” Several industry stakeholders spoke during the public testimony period. The message from each one was pretty much the same: Why are you trying to kill an important industry that provides thousands of jobs and has a huge economic impact on the state just so that Florida can have one more casino? “This bill would sacrifice Florida Thoroughbred racing,” said trainer Mark Casse. “Breeding, sales, training, mostly based in the rural heartland of the state to benefit one person. Florida-bred and raised horses are a valued export product across America and even overseas. Decoupling would devastate rural Florida.” He continued: “1/ST Racing deliberately put all their eggs in one basket and now are prepared to leave Florida racing like post fall Humpty Dumpty. Today over 3,000 Thoroughbreds are stabled in South Florida during the winter and 1,500 year-round. Without Gulfstream, most of these horses and these jobs will leave the state. This passage of the bill will cause 90% of the trainers here with the terrible choice of having to leave their homes or leave the business all together. This issue is much bigger than me. It's about $3.2 billion dollars in economic impact a year. We are not asking for a handout. We are asking Florida to recognize that investing in the Thoroughbred racing industry is no different than investing in other labor intensive industries that contribute billions of dollars throughout the state. “I leave you with one question: is one more hotel and casino in Hallandale Beach, Florida worth destroying an industry that will affect the lives of tens of thousands of people?” At times Anderson was defensive and claimed the industry might have fared better if working with him before the bill was crafted. “We put a call out to the industry and I personally met with several representatives of the industry and I asked them all the same thing-give me a plan, a proposal, tell me what you need changed and how you view the industry from your part?” he said. “We didn't get that. Instead what happened was each of those different associations hired a team of lobbyists simply to fight the bill. I'll ask them why are they spending that money on lobbyist when they should be reinvesting that money into the folks they are supposed to be representing. Folks that are breeding horse, the trainers, the owners, the jockeys. That's one of the root problems we are facing. The way the money is flowing it is not getting into the right hands. This bill addresses that.” “I also want to say I am a lover of the horse industry. I love the track, I love the animal. I am a horse owner myself. It would be an absolute failure in my opinion if racing ended in the state of Florida. Most of the opponents of this legislation spoke to that, what happens if racing ends? This bill is carefully crafted to do everything in our legislative power to make sure that doesn't happen.” With the bill likely to pass when coming before the House for a full vote, the battle will head to the Senate. According to a source, the Senate is known to be more pro-racing and breeding than the House is. The post Florida House Committee Passes Decoupling Bill appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A filly who failed to find a bidder as a yearling and landed a Gowran Park maiden on 3-year-old debut at 40-1 became a new 'TDN Rising Star' at Santa Anita on St. Patrick's Day, fittingly enough, as Raw Ability (Ire) (Belardo {Ire}) ran her stateside record to two wins from as many starts and won for the third time in three career appearances. Friendless in the markets when unveiled by Limerick trainer Eric McNamara over a mile at the Irish venue last June 3, the bay–who was bought back for the upset price of €1,000 as a yearling at Goffs November in 2022–next found herself going through the boutique Goffs London Sale on the eve of Royal Ascot last June. Snapped up by Shawn Dugan for a hefty-enough £140,000, she made the trip stateside and was the 12-5 favorite for a one-mile test at Del Mar Sept. 2. Off slowly and a detached last, she was nevertheless patiently handled by Hector Berrios but flew home once switched out in the lane and attacked the line to score–from an unlikely position–by a half-length. Arguably over the odds in her 4-year-old debut at 23-10, the attractive bay filly left the gate running this time around and found herself chasing the commonly owned Kitty Katana (GB) (Bobby's Kitten) through moderate fractions. Gliding along at her stablemate's saddle towel and poised nearing the stretch, she was held together into the final three-sixteenths of a mile and whooshed home in the same fashion she did six months ago to score cozily. Favored Sareeha (Ire) (Shamardal)–in for the $80,000–enjoyed the run of the race from the box seat and was pulled out three wide at the head of the lane with every chance, but was outsprinted to the wire. Raw Ability, the first 'TDN Rising Star' for her sire (by Lope de Vega {Ire}), covered her final quarter mile in :22 and some change, with a final furlong in a very slick :11.09. Belardo is the sire of eight U.S. winners from nine to race, headed by this circuit's teak-tough Gold Phoenix (Ire), winner of the GI Frank E. Kilroe Mile at this track. Behind Raw Ability is a 3-year-old filly by Buratino (Ire) and a juvenile filly by Raven's Pass. 7th-Santa Anita, $69,500, Alw (NW2$X), Opt. Clm ($80,000), 3-17, 4yo/up, f/m, 1mT, 1:36.84, fm, 3/4 length. RAW ABILITY (IRE), f, 4, by Belardo (Ire) 1st Dam: Que Sera Sera (GB), by Dansili (GB) 2nd Dam: Musical Note (GB), by Zamindar 3rd Dam: Interval (Ire), by Habitat Sales history: €1,000 RNA Ylg '22 GOAUYR; £140,000 3yo '24 GOFLON. Lifetime Record: 3-3-0-0, $95,001. Click for the Equibase.com chart or VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. Click for the free Equineline.com catalogue-style pedigree. O-Hronis Racing LLC; B-Mr Gary Aspell (Ire); T-John W Sadler. #5 RAW ABILITY (IRE)($6.60) is undefeated after her Race 7 victory at Santa Anita. Another win today for jockey @HIBerrios, trainer @johnwsadler and owner @Hronis_Racing. pic.twitter.com/U3SbclSp3D — FanDuel Racing (@FanDuel_Racing) March 17, 2025 The post Belardo Filly Raw Ability Runs To Her Name Again, Becomes a ‘Rising Star’ appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Dennis Yip bids to win the BMW Hong Kong Derby two years in a row. Photo: HKJC Dennis Yip will attempt to win a consecutive HK$26 million Hong Kong Derby (2000m) at Sha Tin on Sunday when he saddles Noisy Boy in the third and the final leg of the Four-Year-Old Classic Series. The 2024 Hong Kong Derby-winning trainer with Massive Sovereign, Yip is holding faith in Noisy Boy’s ability and stamina to bounce back after the Real Steel gelding’s slightly disappointing 13th behind Rubylot in the Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m), the second leg of the Four-Year-Old Classic Series. Noisy Boy is the only course and distance winner among the 2025 Derby field, beating Winning Dragon over 2000m two starts back. Winning Dragon went on the finish fourth in the Group 1 Hong Kong Gold Cup (2000m) to frank the form. Yip explained Noisy Boy’s last start defeat: “He was the victim of the race circumstance. My instruction was to ask the jockey to settle the horse in third or fourth position, or to take a soft lead if the pace was too slow. “However, (the) jockey reported that after he jumped out quick, he couldn’t cut across and had to make some use of the horses in the early stages and the horse was on the bridle to take the lead. His first three sectionals (13.82s, 21.69s and 23.85s) were a bit too quick for him.” “Hopefully with some on-pace runners like Beauty Alliance in the field, he can follow the leaders comfortably this time and as long as he can travel comfortably in the early stages, he should be very competitive as he is a very fit horse and is the only one who had the winning record over the Hong Kong Derby distance,” Yip added. Having finished second in the Group 2 Tulloch Stakes (2000m) and eighth in the Group 1 Australian Derby (2400m) in Australia pre-import, Noisy Boy won twice in Hong Kong from just five starts, breaking his local maiden over 2200m at Happy Valley before winning at the Derby trip in January. He will be ridden by Christophe Soumillon this Sunday. Yip said: “Christophe has plenty of experiences in riding big races and he is also the one who will give you a detailed post-race report. I don’t have too much concern on the draw but of course anything from draw one to six will be ideal.” Noisy Boy clocked 52.4s (28.9s and 23.5s) over 800m on turf on Monday and Yip was pleased with the horse’s progress ahead of Hong Kong Derby Day. Yip also reckoned My Wish will be the major rival to Noisy Boy in the Derby. “Last time in the Hong Kong Classic Cup, My Wish followed us in face pace throughout the race and still ran on well in the straight. As such, he will be one of the major contenders in this year’s Derby,” he said. Horse racing news View the full article