Wandering Eyes

Making her first start in the United States for celebrity chef Bobby Flay, no small detail has been overlooked by trainer Miguel Clement as Go Go Boots prepares for the $500,000 Saratoga Oaks Invitational (G2T) at Saratoga Race Course Aug. 9.View the full article

In 2020, amid the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, jockey Abel Lezcano was diagnosed with non-functioning kidneys. Now, he's healthy again and riding at Del Mar - after his wife Maria donated one of her two kidneys to him.View the full article

Effective this weekend, 1/ST Racing will discontinue selling the simulcast signal from Gulfstream Park and Santa Anita Park to Hipódromo Camarero in Puerto Rico to address increasing concerns regarding horse welfare and safety at that racetrack. View the full article

Effective this weekend, 1/ST RACING will discontinue selling the simulcast signal from Gulfstream Park and Santa Anita Park to Hipódromo Camarero in Puerto Rico to address increasing concerns regarding horse welfare and safety at that racetrack, it was announced Thursday evening. This announcement comes in agreement with the horsemen's groups in Florida and California after other measures in recent years have failed to substantially bolster the care for racehorses in Puerto Rico, particularly when horses are no longer racing. “Exporting our signal to Hipódromo Camarero represents millions of dollars of handle to 1/ST RACING but we, along with our horsemen's groups in Florida and California, have agreed this is a necessary step to ensure Puerto Rican racing stakeholders understand that we will not do business with individuals or companies that do not make horse safety, welfare and post-racing retirement a top priority,” said Aidan Butler, President, 1/ST. “I am grateful for the support of the Florida Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association as well as the Thoroughbred Owners of California in this decision and together we hope Hipódromo Camarero will work quickly to improve the treatment of horses both during and following their racing careers.” Tom Cannell, President of the Florida Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, added, “The Florida horsemen stand firmly behind 1/ST RACING's decision to suspend its racing signal to Puerto Rico. The ongoing welfare issues surrounding the treatment of Thoroughbreds on the island are unacceptable, and meaningful change will only come when the industry demands accountability. We commend 1/ST for taking this principled stand.” Butler said, “In addition to discontinuing the simulcast signal to Hipódromo Camarero, any license holder who chooses to ship or sell a horse to Puerto Rico will no longer be welcome to race or train at 1/ST facilities. We are mindful of the potential impact these policies could have on the horses currently racing in Puerto Rico. To help protect and support the safety and welfare of these racehorses, we will be donating $100,000 to the Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare.” “There is no place in our sport for neglect or inhumane treatment of horses,” said Bill Nader, President of Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC). “The TOC fully supports this action by 1/ST RACING as a necessary step and its $100,000 donation to help drive home the message that the horse must come first.” 1/ST previously worked with industry stakeholders to address significant welfare and safety concerns for horses transported from 1/ST tracks and training centers to race in Puerto Rico, including banning the transport of racehorses by cargo ship from 1/ST facilities. While this measure led Puerto Rico to change its policies on horse shipment, it exposed inadequate funding for aftercare for horses retiring from Hipódromo Camarero. As a result, 1/ST required the connections of any horse sold to Puerto Rico from a 1/ST racing or training facility to deposit money into an account with the horsemen to cover the aftercare and potential return shipment to the United States upon the horses' retirement. The post Citing Horse Welfare and Safety Concerns, 1/ST Racing to Cut Simulcast Signal to Puerto Rico appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Dear Editor: A July 31 letter printed by Thoroughbred Daily News criticized Florida's racing and breeding programs. This letter, seemingly targeted at the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' & Owners' Association, compels a direct response, particularly given the source and timing. Considering the Source The author of this letter has not appeared as a breeder-of-record on a registered Florida-bred foal that we know of since 2019, holds no current Florida racing license that we are aware of, appears to have no recent Florida starts as an owner or trainer, and is not a member of the FTBOA. This outside perspective is not fully informed and is not based on a commitment to the success of Florida's program. Disconnected criticism fits a troubling pattern of external interests attempting to destabilize our industry for their own purposes. The unoriginal suggestion that the Ocala Breeders' Sales Company should “take over” the FTBOA is premised on a misunderstanding of corporate law. No legal mechanisms exist whereby the for-profit OBS may assume control of a not-for-profit association. It is hard to perceive that OBS would entertain such a perilous and impermissible course. These attacks coincide with intensifying efforts by non-Florida entities positioning for control of valuable industry assets–suggesting coordination rather than genuine concern for Florida breeding. Record Resources While decoupling legislation remains stalled, the state has demonstrated its commitment to Florida's Thoroughbred industry through increased incentives for racing. As FTBOA CEO Lonny Powell noted following Governor DeSantis' newest budget approval, “We are grateful to our Governor and leaders in the Florida Senate who ensured ongoing support for the Thoroughbred breeding industry. Were it not for key Senate allies, Florida's breeding program would be in a precarious position. Today's additional state investment affirms the racetracks' responsibility to the Florida industry. We anticipate benefits to our breeders as purse incentives drive up market values for the second most valuable state-breds in the nation.” In 2024, combined Florida-bred breeding, stallion and open race incentives outpaced all states outside of Kentucky. Thanks to recent legislative support, we anticipate 2025 may accelerate this pattern. With more purse and incentive dollars available than ever before in Florida's history, we anticipate historic high offerings as racetracks organize and deploy these substantial new resources effectively. Program Responsibility It's important to clarify that matters of the Florida condition books, including Florida-bred restricted races, fall under the domain of the racetracks, not FTBOA. While we always desire to collaborate with track management and horsemen, the scheduling and structure of race conditions are operational decisions made at the racetrack. Consistent Strength Claims of decline ignore that Florida's breeding program continually delivers exceptional performance and market leadership. Florida-breds globally won 64 open stakes races and 13 graded stakes in 2024, dramatically outpacing all other regional breeding programs outside of Kentucky. This tour-de-force continues into 2025 where, to date, we have 49 open stakes winners across the nation, of which 15 are graded stakes–again, more than doubling our nearest state-bred rivals outside of Kentucky. Florida-bred 2-year-olds commanded the highest average prices among all major regional programs in 2024. Our 2-year-old prices demonstrate remarkable resilience, achieving a 73% increase from 2020 to 2024, even as other major states experienced double-digit declines. And, while New York leads in yearling prices among major regional breeders, Florida maintains a strong second place. For over a decade, Florida-breds have consistently made up 40% of all Florida race starters, 40% of victories, and earned 40% of Florida purses, demonstrating sustained competitive excellence in-state. Caution: Quality Over Restriction Florida-breds compete and win against all comers, in open company, across the nation. In-state, our runners have long appreciated open-race purse incentives and likely can look forward to expansion of those benefits. Increased restricted race programming can compromise this fundamental advantage by developing horses suited for state-bred competition rather than open success. And restricted racing can net reduce overall field sizes at a time when our racetracks, through repeated decoupling attempts, have indicated declining interest in robust race dates. Coordinated Outside Attacks The FTBOA controls the final remaining Thoroughbred racetrack permit in Florida–a significant not-for-profit asset that, while not yet activated, represents tremendous potential value for the entire industry. The recent letter attacking the FTBOA's stewardship must be viewed in this context, as outside agitators circle this asset with a clear intent to wrest control for their own interests. The timing and source of these criticisms are telling. This fits the emerging pattern of predatory maneuvers by non-Florida influences who have proven sloppy and self-serving, prioritizing their own commercial interests over the industry's welfare. Moving Forward The Florida Thoroughbred industry stands at a pivotal moment with more financial support and opportunity than ever before. The FTBOA remains committed to maximizing these resources through engagement with like-minded Florida industry partners while preserving the competitive excellence that has made Florida-breds a respected global brand. Regards, FTBOA The post Letter to the Editor: Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ & Owners’ Association Issues Response to Letter Critical of Florida’s Racing and Breeding Programs appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The connections of Florida-based first-crop sire Chance It celebrated his first winner Aug. 7, when the filly Tosca captured the fifth race at Colonial Downs. View the full article

A well-matched field of turf distaffers will head to the post for Friday's GII Ballston Spa Stakes at Saratoga, and the Cherie DeVaux-trained Deep Satin (American Pharoah) will have to overcome the widest gate in this return to graded stakes compeitition. Dead-heat winner of last year's Virginia Oaks, the homebred missed by a neck to 'TDN Rising Star' Sweet Rebecca (American Pharoah) when favored in a salty Keeneland allowance on seasonal debut Apr. 25, but couldn't overcome the 11 hole in the June 1 GIII Mint Julep Stakes, finishing an even fifth. The bay sat handy to the pace in the first of two divisions of the restricted De La Rose Stakes on opening day July 10 and was along late to take it by a neck in what became a sit-sprint contest. “She improved last out,” said DeVaux. “She had shown a lot of promise in her races. So, she definitely deserves a chance in this graded stakes. She definitely has trained forwardly since her last race. She looks great, so we will be taking a shot in here.” Though the second division of the De La Rose was fully 1.24 seconds faster, the victorious Ozara (Ire) (Lope de Vega {Ire}) earned a 90 Beyer, just two points better than Deep Satin given the significantly different pace dynamics. Winner of the Apr. 26 Monroe Stakes at Gulfstream, the bay was beaten on the square by the re-opposing Chad Brown stablemates Whiskey Decision (Into Mischief) and U.S. debutante Maggie Go (Arg) (Winning Prize {Arg}) in the GIII Eatontown Stakes June 14 before bouncing back in the De La Rose. Morning-line favorite Be Your Best (Ire) (Muhaarar {Ire}), wire-to-wire winner of the GI Gamely Stakes at Santa Anita May 26, will scratch in favor of Saturday's GII Beverly D. Stakes at Colonial. The post Deep Satin Needs A Trip In the Ballston Spa appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – Moments into the post-race interview Thursday, Steven Duncker took a small step back, bowed his head slightly and wiped away a tear. For sure, Duncker was pleased to be back in the winner's circle at Saratoga Race Course but the maiden victory by Teddy's Rocket (Liam's Map) brought more than typical winning-a-race joy to the veteran owner and his partners, St. Elias Stable, Susan Karches and Vicarage Stable. There were more elements at play than just a score in the second race in the program, a $100,000 maiden special weight one-mile turf test for 2-year-olds. Plenty more. Teddy's Rocket, named for an accomplishment by Duncker's 18-year-old son, is trained by Miguel Clement, the son of Duncker's longtime trainer, Christophe, who died of a rare cancer on May 24 at the age of 59. With a somewhat different, more aggressive trip under Hall of Fame jockey Joel Rosario than Miguel Clement figured on, Teddy's Rocket stalked the early pace set by Our Magical Moon (Good Magic). The bay colt bred by Stoneriggs Farm took the lead with three-sixteenths to run and held off Noble Dynasty by a half-length in 1:35.92. “It's all because of the name,” Miguel Clement said as he embraced Duncker as they waited for the Teddy's Rocket to return to have his photo taken. They both laughed. Five days earlier, Duncker, many of the same partners and Clement were celebrating an even bigger success, Deterministic's (Liam's Map) triumph in the $750,000 GI Fourstardave on Saturday. Though there is a huge difference between a Grade I and a maiden special weight, the Teddy's Rocket's victory produced a notable reaction from the people involved. To launch the interview. Duncker pointed to Miguel Clement, stretched out his arms and bowed in an I-am-not-worthy type of tribute. I just want to do this,” he said “Just absolutely fantastic and emotional for me. We're overjoyed. It's fantastic.” Duncker said that Christophe Clement trained for him for bout 15 years. “I was friends with him before that,” Duncker said. “He was a fantastic trainer. I loved having him train horses, but I considered him just such a great friend of mine anyway, “Miguel has just done an unbelievable job. The results speak for themselves, but he's really just shown what a great horseman he is and how he can handle an unbelievably tough situation. And a huge amount of credit to Joe Migliore, who picked this horse out. This is not that expensive a horse, by the way things go here. What a joyous day.” Migliore selected the colt, out of Autonomous by Quality Road, at the Keeneland September Sale and he was purchased for $120,000. The way he ran in training and in the final stages of race, his name–provided by Duncker's partners–made sense, though it has nothing to do with racing. “My son built a rocket with a computer guidance system that landed the rocket like SpaceX,” Duncker said. “Because of that, someone at SpaceX saw that, and they recruited him to work at SpaceX when he was a junior in high school. Kevin Warsh and Peter Karches just wanted to name it Teddy's Rocket.” Teddy Duncker worked for the Elon Musk company in the summer of 2024 between his junior and senior year in high school and now works for Musk's Starlink in Seattle. “Your children go where their heart leads them and he was interested in that,” Duncker said. “When he started this rocket project, he was 12. It took four years to land it.” Duncker said his son posted videos about his work with the rocket online, representatives of SpaceX saw them and made contact through LinkedIn. Migliore, the bloodstock agent son of retired jockey Richard Migliore, said he reached out to Christophe Clement after he spotted the colt at the sale. “He just walked so athletically that I was immediately drawn to him,” Migliore said. “The type of horse that I actually was expecting to make a little bit more money than we had to pay. Anytime I found a Liam's Map at the sales Christophe Clement was always my first phone call because the success that he's had with the sire. It was actually one of the last horses that I was able to buy for him. So little bit of sentimental connection there, too. “He's always shown to be very athletic and I think he's got a big future. I think he was a little green in the stretch today, waiting for others. A horse that I knew right away when I saw him, even before I had to ring Christophe. Happy that he was able to put him put together a great ownership group, a familiar ownership group to Deterministic, who's also Liam's Map. It was a very natural fit for him to present the horse to those owners. Just happy he got it done today.” Teddy's Rocket was the 2-1 favorite in the field of seven and paid $6.10 to give Miguel Clement his 10th win of his first season in charge of the Clement stable at Saratoga. “Very impressive. He's got a great turn of foot,” Clement said. “The stretch was a bit long because he's idling and waiting on company. Nevertheless, I always thought he had plenty in reserve and he was very impressive.” Rosario was never more than a couple lengths off the early pace of :24.03 and :48.00, which wasn't what Clement expected to see. I thought he'd be a bit more patiently ridden and come up late one run,” Clement said, “but the end of the day, he rides them and he figures it out. And he's very good. You have to allow him to call an audible if he thought the pace was reasonable and he wanted to be forwardly placed.” For Duncker, the race was gut-wrenching. “I'm telling you, I was more nervous than Deterministic on Saturday,” he said, smiling and shaking his head. “I just was. Who knows why? Your emotions are your emotions.” 2nd-Saratoga, $100,000, Msw, 8-7, 2yo, 1mT, 1:35.92, fm, 1/2 length. TEDDY'S ROCKET (c, 2, Liam's Map–Autonomous {SP}, by Quality Road), sent off the 2-1 choice in this unveiling, settled in a stalking third from his outside draw as Our Magic Moon (Good Magic) cut out initial splits of :24.03 and :48. Rail riding for much of the way, Teddy's Rocket was drawn out into the two path turning for home, overtook Our Magical Moon midstretch and had enough left to fend off Noble Dynasty (Kingman {GB}) by a half-length at the wire. SP Autonomous is also responsible for 3-year-old winner Griffin's Wharf (Constitution), a $325,000 KEESEP purchase, a yearling colt by Olympiad and a filly foal by Life Is Good. Sales history: $120,000 Ylg '24 KEESEP. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $55,000. Click for the Equibase.com chart or VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. O-Duncker, C. Steven, St. Elias Stable, Susan Karches and Vicarage Stable; B-Stoneriggs Farm (KY); T-Miguel Clement. The post Spa Maidens, Presented by Keeneland: Teddy’s Rocket Completes Perfect Family-Affair MSW Mission appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – When the question came out on the rail at the Oklahoma Training Track Thursday morning, trainer Miguel Clement smiled. But he was not about to give an answer to who is his favorite horse in his barn. That will stay with him. When the name of 'TDN Rising Star' Far Bridge (English Channel) was suggested, Clement smiled some more. “He is definitely up there,” Clement said. As well he should. Far Bridge, owned by LSU Stables, shows up whenever Clement puts the saddle on the 5-year-old. That will happen on Saturday when Far Bridge defends his title in the GI, $750,000 Sword Dancer Stakes at Saratoga. A year ago, Far Bridge won the 1 1/2-mile race in front-running fashion at odds of 8-1. You won't get that price this year. Far Bridge, who will be ridden by his constant companion, Hall of Fame jockey Joel Rosario, was made the 9-5 morning-line favorite in the Sword Dancer field of nine by New York Racing Association oddsmaker David Aragona. Far Bridge has won three of four starts this year and is a photo finish away from being perfect. He finished third in the June 8 GI Manhattan Stakes behind stablemate 'TDN Rising Star' Deterministic (Liam's Map) and Integration (Quality Road), who is the 8-5 morning-line favorite in Saturday's GI Arlington Million at Colonial Downs. Far Bridge was the last horse saddled by Miguel's dad, Christophe, who passed away on May 25. On May 10, the elder Clement won the GII Man o' War Stakes at Aqueduct. “He loved that horse,” Miguel Clement said of his father's relationship with Far Bridge. “He didn't have favorites, but there were two or three that he really loved. It's a travesty that the Man o' War is no longer a Grade I.” Miguel Clement has been running the barn since his dad's death. Deterministic was his first Grade I win. In his 18 career starts, Far Bridge has nine wins, three seconds and three thirds. At Saratoga, he has two wins and three thirds in five starts. Far Bridge isn't just a lover of Saratoga, He is unbeaten in four tries at Gulfstream Park; he has won two graded stakes at Aqueduct. “He has won all of the biggest turf staying races of the year,” Miguel Clement said. “He is very enthusiastic in his training, and he is maturing well, especially mentally. Physically he has always been very advanced. Mentally, he has gotten to another level where he really understands his job. He knows exactly what is expected of him.” Scottish Lassie Not Definite for Alabama The 15 1/2-length win by Scottish Lassie (McKinzie) in last month's GI Coaching Club American Oaks Stakes still resonates with trainer Jorge Abreu. It was his first Grade I win at Saratoga, and second in his career. Scottish Lassie also gave him his first, in the GI Frizette last October at Aqueduct. Scottish Lassie | Sarah Andrew Whether or not Abreu has a chance to get another big score in next weekend's GI Alabama Stakes remains to be seen. Abreu has not yet confirmed that Scottish Lassie will start in the Alabama. He said that will be determined after the filly works Sunday morning. She has not worked since her win in the CCA Oaks. The other option for Scottish Lassie is the GI, $1-million Cotillion Stakes at Parx Racing on Sept. 20. The way he talked Thursday morning, it sounded like Abreu might be leaning towards Pennsylvania. “She is doing very, very well,” Abreu said at the Oklahoma Training Track. “She doesn't have the same attitude I saw going into the Coaching Club. I don't want to ruin her just to prove a point. If she breezes good and she comes out of it in good shape, we will sit down and make a decision.” Scottish Lassie, who is owned by Sportsmen Stable, Parkland Thoroughbreds, Photos Finish LLC, Corms Racing Stable and Abreu, has a win and two thirds in three starts this year. Joseph Happy With White Abarrio's Whitney, May Run in Jockey Club Gold Cup The more trainer Saffie Joseph, Jr. watches last Saturday's GI Whitney Stakes, the more pleased he is with the performance of White Abarrio (Race Day). White Abarrio (middle) off and running in the Whitney | Sarah Andrew The 6-year-old gray finished fourth in the talent-soaked Whitney, beaten four lengths by 'TDN Rising Star' Sierra Leone (Gun Runner). White Abarrio raced extremely wide into the stretch. “The way he ran, if he could have sat a little more forward and not that wide, he is not that far off from winning,” Joseph said outside his barn on the Saratoga backstretch. “He ran a huge number on the Rags (Ragozin sheets). According to the Rags, it was the third best race of his life.” Joseph said the trip he wanted for White Abarrio was to be outside, but when he came into the stretch, he was six or seven paths wide. Owned by C Two Racing Stable, Gary Barber and La Milagrosa Stable LLC, White Abarrio and stablemate Skippylongstocking (Exaggerator), who was seventh in the Whitney, have returned to the track. Joseph said there is a chance that White Abarrio will reappear in the GI, $1-million Jockey Club Gold Cup on Aug. 30, the last weekend of the meet. “It's not set that we will, but if we run in the Jockey Club Gold Cup, it means we have a good chance of winning,” Joseph said. “If we are doing good, we are going in there. If we need a little more time, we'll wait.” White Abarrio has won two of four starts this year, both at Gulfstream Park. He won the GI Pegasus World Cup Invitational and the GIII Ghostzapper Stakes. He was fourth in his other two tries, the Whitney and GI Met Mile, which was also run at Saratoga. Skippylongstocking, owned by Daniel Alonso, will remain on schedule for the GII, $1-million Charles Town Classic on Aug. 22 in West Virginia. He is looking to become the first horse to win it in three consecutive years. Two other horses–Researcher (Two Smart) in 2009-10 and Art Collector (Bernardini) in 2021-22–have won the race twice in a row. The Whitney was Skippylongstocking's first race since May 26 when he won the GII Hollywood Gold Cup Stakes at Santa Anita. “We needed that (Whitney),” Joseph said. “I did not want to go to Charles Town without a run. I thought he made a big mid-race move in the Whitney and he got tired. Winning three in a row is not easy. You have to stay healthy, sound and in good form. It is not an easy race and he will have to run his best again.” The post Saratoga Notebook, Presented by NYRA Bets: Consistent Far Bridge Eyes Repeat in Sword Dancer appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A stakes schedule packed with $3.575 million in purses will headline this year's 14-day September meet at Churchill Downs, featuring 11 black-type events over three weekends.View the full article

Sweetwater Downs will offer the highest purses for horsemen in the track's history for its 2025 race meet starting on Saturday, Aug. 16. The $1.9 million in purses is a 40% increase over 2024.View the full article

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will host the inaugural Corgi Cup on Sunday, Aug. 10 at Saratoga Race Course. A total of 48 Corgis have been registered by their owners to take part in the competition. Two qualifying rounds featuring four heats of 12 Corgis each will take place on the main track after the third and fifth Thoroughbred races of the afternoon. The top three finishers from each heat will advance to the championship round to comprise a 12-Corgi field that will go to post after the seventh race at approximately 4:55 p.m. All races will be televised live on FOX Sports (FS1). Corgis will sprint 40 yards to the finish line with the champion celebrated during a ceremony in the winner's circle and awarded the inaugural Corgi Cup. The post Saratoga Race Course to Host Inaugural Corgi Cup on Sunday appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

6th-ELP, $100K, Msw, 2yo, 6f, 3:12 p.m. ET. Robert Clay's Grandview Equine went to a cool $1-million to acquire VALIANT (Into Mischief) at the Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Select Yearling Sale. Partnering with LNJ Foxwoods and Hubert Vester, the ownership group sent the colt to trainer Brad Cox. The debuting bay is the first foal out of unraced Validest (Medaglia d'Oro)–a Vester purchase for $350,000 from the 2021 Keeneland November Sale while she was in foal to Authentic. Validest is a half-sister to GII American Turf Stakes hero Global View (Galileo {Ire}) and the dam of GISW Gun Pilot (Gun Runner). As for Valiant's extended female family, it includes MGSW A.P. Warrior (A.P. Indy). Also making the gate is Southern Soul (Authentic). His dam is a half-sister to GSW Travelin Man (Trippi), GSW Discreet Dancer (Discreet Cat), and SW Sweet N Discreet (Discreet Cat), who herself produced MGSW Sweet Melania (American Pharoah) and SW Sweet Rebecca (American Pharoah). TJCIS PPS 2nd-ELP, $100K, Msw, 2yo, f, 1m, 1:19 p.m. ET. Coffee Pot Stable homebred Fregata (War Front) is a first-time starter trained by Wayne Catalano. The filly is out of MGSW Farrell (Malibi Moon), whose half-brother is MGISW Carpe Diem (Giant's Causeway). Another homebred is set for her unveiling. Bred and ready to race for Spendthirft, Steve Asmussen trainee Civilianaire (Bolt d'Oro) hails from a stakes-winning dam, whose half-brothers include GI Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile victor Spun to Run (Hard Spun) and SW Informed Patriot (Hard Spun). TJCIS PPS The post Friday Insights: Pricey Into Mischief Colt Valiant Set For First Start At Ellis appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Friday, Tipperary, post time: 17:47, COOLMORE STUD CHURCHILL STAKES-Listed, €27,000, 2yo, 7f 100yT Field: Brussels (GB) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), Empty Wallet (Ire) (Elzaam {Aus}), Maximum Scepticism (Ire) (Churchill {Ire}), Suspicious Mindz (GB) (Bated Breath {GB}), Thesecretadversary (Ire) (St Mark's Basilica {Fr}), Time Bender (Ire) (Gustav Klimt {Ire}). TDN Verdict: TDN Rising Star Brussels was one of the few Ballydoyle juveniles who didn't deliver in his black-type assignment, but the July Stakes form behind Zavateri looks good now and he deserves credit for racing up with the pace and sticking at it. Thesecretadversary was up against Italy and Humility before inexplicably finding a way to get beaten again at Ayr last month and the jury is out, while Maximum Scepticism who is by the sire after which the race is named made his trip to England a winning one last time and has scope to improve. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Curragh, post time: 16:00, KEENELAND PHOENIX STAKES-G1, €210,000, 2yo, c/f, 6fT Field: Do Bronxs (Ire) (Oasis Dream {GB}), Gstaad (GB) (Starspangledbanner {Aus}), Power Blue (Ire) (Space Blues {Ire}), Puerto Rico (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), Green Sense (Ire) (Starman {GB}), True Love (Ire) (No Nay Never). TDN Verdict: If allowed to run against each other, Gstaad and True Love will offer an exciting poser given how impressive they were at Royal Ascot. Ryan Moore is booked for the former, one of the best winners of the Coventry in some time who could be on course to do a “Johannesburg” and attempt the clean sweep of Europe's premier juvenile six-furlong contests in 2025. Since dominating the Queen Mary, True Love has followed up in style over course and distance in the Railway and her three-pound allowance could swing matters. It looks as if there is a gap between the Rosegreen pair and the Robert Papin winner Green Sense, while we know there is a sizeable one separating them and the consistent Power Blue and Puerto Rico. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Haydock, post time: 15:00, THE BETFRED ROSE OF LANCASTER STAKES-G3, £85,000, 3yo/up, 10f 100yT Field: First Conquest (GB) (Teofilo {Ire}), Certain Lad (GB) (Clodovil {Ire}), Haatem (Ire) (Phoenix Of Spain {Ire}), Haunted Dream (Ire) (Oasis Dream {GB}), Military Order (Ire) (Frankel {GB}), Okeechobee (GB) (Time Test {GB}), Royal Dubai (Fr) (Seahenge), Detain (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}). TDN Verdict: Back at the trip over which he took Royal Ascot's Listed Wolferton Stakes, Haatem holds pole position from the three-year-old Detain who needs to recapture the form of his Prix du Jockey Club third. Eight pounds weight-for-age will help Juddmonte's runner, who is joined by the operation's Okeechobee, another who needs to get back on track after a disappointing start to the campaign. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Newmarket, post time: 15:40, THE NEWSELLS PARK STUD SWEET SOLERA STAKES-G3, £60,000, 2yo, f, 7fT Field: Dance To The Music (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}), Midnight Tango (GB) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}), Princess Petrol (GB) (St Mark's Basilica {Fr}), Sapphire Steps (Ire) (Dark Angel {Ire}), True Test (GB) (Time Test {GB}), Venetian Lace (Ire) (Masar {Ire}). TDN Verdict: Withdrawn from the Princess Margaret last month, Dance To The Music bids to make up for that lost opportunity taking on the experienced Midnight Tango who was fourth in that Ascot contest. Princess Petrol impressed in a novice at Ascot last time and may be the most progressive of the other unexposed types. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Curragh, post time: 15:25, FBD HOTELS AND RESORTS PHOENIX SPRINT STAKES-G3, €42,000, 3yo/up, 6fT Field: Art Power (Ire) (Dark Angel {Ire}), Big Gossey (Ire) (Gutaifan {Ire}), Bucanero Fuerte (GB) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), Kind Of Blue (GB) (Blue Point {Ire}), King Cuan (GB) (Tasleet {GB}), My Mate Alfie (Ire) (Dark Angel {Ire}), Spycatcher (Ire) (Vadamos {Fr}), Tango Flare (Ire) (Fulbright {GB}), Nighteyes (Ire) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}), Vespertilio (Fr) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}), Babouche (GB) (Kodiac {GB}), Black Forza (Complexity), Ides Of March (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), Fregada (Ire) (Kodiac {GB}), Lady With The Lamp (Ire) (King Of Change {GB}). TDN Verdict: Art Power's record in Ireland reads 1111164, but this is his seasonal debut and is a tough assignment at his veteran stage. To varying degrees, last year's wonderkids Kind Of Blue and Babouche are threatening to go the wrong way along with Ides Of March and when you add in the likes of Bucanero Fuerte, Vespertilio and Black Forza this is definitely the most interesting race of the day. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Deauville, France, post time: 13:58, PRIX DUBAI RACING CLUB (PRIX DE REUX)-G3, €73,200, 3yo/up, 12 1/2fT Field: Marquisat (Ire) (Zarak {Fr}), Rashford (Fr) (Zarak {Fr}), Sevenna's Knight (Ire) (Camelot {GB}), Simca Mille (Ire) (Tamayuz {GB}), Uther (GB) (Camelot {GB}). TDN Verdict: Revived this term, Simca Mille could be on the way back to his prime which would be bad news for these rivals. In his last five starts, Sevenna's Knight has finished fifth in the Arc and runner-up in the Royal-Oak and Vicomtesse Vigier and the strength of the older brigade here makes life tough for the three-year-old Uther, who has flattened out after his win in ParisLongchamp's G3 Prix Noailles in April. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Deauville, France, post time: 14:33, PRIX DE LA VALLEE D'AUGE-Listed, €54,900, 2yo, 5fT Field: Graft (Ire) (U S Navy Flag), Pen And Sword (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}), First Legion (Ire) (Mehmas {Ire}), Valasara (Fr) (Hello Youmzain {Fr}), Miss Yechance (Ire) (Cotai Glory {GB}), Wateen (Ire) (Profitable {GB}), Shine On Me (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}). TDN Verdict: Sixth in the Queen Mary and fourth in the Duchess Of Cambridge, Shine On Me forms the spearhead of a typically-strong British challenge on a Deauville August two-year-old race along with the Listed National Stakes runner-up First Legion. The Aga Khan Studs are represented by Valasara, who beat the subsequent winner Repel on debut over six here last month but who as a member of the all-conquering “V family” may find this on the sharp side. [Tom Frary]. Saturday, Deauville, France, post time: 17:35, PRIX MICHEL HOUYVET-Listed, €50,300, 3yo, 15fT Field: Asmarani (Ire) (Sottsass {Fr}), Dschingis Spirit (Fr) (Dschingis Secret {Ger}), I Got Rhythm (Fr) (Telecaster {GB}), Allure (Fr) (Persian King {Ire}), Hotheaded (GB) (Frankel {GB}), Starlord (Fr) (Too Darn Hot {GB}), Espoir Avenir (Fr) (Montmartre (Fr), Golden Weaver (Fr) (Romanised {Ire}), Zingaro (Fr) (Kingman {GB}), Sapodilla (Ire) (Oasis Dream {GB}), Through The Flames (Ire) (Le Havre {Ire}). TDN Verdict: Andre Fabre has four in here, with the G3 Prix du Lys fourth Hotheaded perhaps the pick, but they all have to step up markedly to get to the level of the G3 Prix Hocquart runner-up Asmarani. Disappointing in the Queen's Vase when last seen, he will be more comfortable in these waters. [Tom Frary]. Click here for the complete fields. The post Black-Type Analysis: Ballydoyle Holds Strong Hand In Both The Churchill Stakes and Phoenix Stakes appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk A new name will join the junior driving ranks in the north tonight. Holly Moralde Sands, who was judged the Most Promising Cadet at the latest North Island Harness Racing Awards, will drive Grace N Elegance in the NZ Trainers and Drivers Association North Island Handicap Trot at Alexandra Park. Adding to the occasion, the 19-year-old also co-races the six-year-old mare. “I’m actually leasing that mare. It was Crystal’s idea (Hackett) to get me a horse that I could have for trial drives and get onto the racetrack.” Crystal’s mother and father Michelle Wallis and Bernie Hackett train the mare from their Waiuku base. Both Crystal (Mad Mary) and Bernie (Happy Hill) will also drive in the same race. Moralde Sands has had the 25 trials required before a race day debut. Her background is through Pony Club and “low level showjumping” before she started working weekends and school holidays for champion trainer-driver Tony Herlihy at his Papakura stables. She began full-time there about three years ago. “Tony’s been good to put me on some older horses and some younger ones and trotters and the like,” says Moralde Sands, “I’ve had lots of different drives at the trials.” Grace N Elegance is currently a $4.60 second favourite behind the Tony Herlihy-trained Pretty In Pink. Both will start off 30 metres. They finished one-two at the trials on July 18. “She’s been trailing nice and we are pretty happy with her,” Moralde Sands said of Grace N Elegance. Moralde Sands joins a growing list of northern-based junior drivers including : Neita Balle Stephanie Burley Kate Coppins Nathan Delany Kristina Denifostova Jacob Dunn Crystal Hackett Taitlyn Hanara Alicia Harrison Leah Hibell Emily Johnson Harrison Orange Monika Ranger Fergus Schumacher Brooke Wilkins The NZ Trainers and Drivers Association North Island Handicap Trot is due to go at Alexandra Park at 9.18pm. View the full article

The return of Akuta after last racing in December 2023 will be of huge interest at Alexandra Park tonight. The millionaire pacer has had a long road back from a tendon injury ahead of his appearance in the World’s Best Hoof Oil – Here For The Horse Mobile Pace (7.51pm). Trackside presenter Brittany Graham and racing journalist Michael Guerin share their thoughts on the return of the former superstar, who’s a $1.35 favourite to resume on a winning note. A perfect kick off point for Akuta By Brittany Graham New Zealand’s fightback against another Aussie invasion during New Zealand Cup Week is about to get a serious uplift with the return of glamour pacer Akuta. Not seen since running third in the Franklin Cup of 2023, a significant tendon issue for the now six-year-old keep him off the scene with some concern over him ever being seen on the racetrack again. Meticulously handled by Mark and Nathan Purdon, alongside their support team, it has been a long road with no corners cut to ensure he was given an ample opportunity for a return. Stepping out publicly in May, the millionaire pacer was then given another brief let up to give him every chance at a genuine Spring preparation and a third New Zealand Cup tilt. He looks thrown into a R55 to R115 mobile event over 1700metres at Alexandra Park on Friday night, although, he will have a new driver with Brooke Wilkins junior driving concession required for race eligibility. And while being first up off such a long injury enforced layoff is always a word of warning for punters, co-trainer Nathan Purdon is thrilled with the star’s progress. “Akuta seems really good for his comeback race this week” he said. “He is probably at 85% (fitness) going into this week, but he has found the perfect race.” He is also likely to stick around in the North for longer than first thought with another suitable contest programmed. “At this point, he will have one more start after this weekend before heading South.” Albeit far from the biggest race in his calendar, it would be an exceptionally rewarding achievement should the Purdon’s attain fairytale success after all that has gone into his return. It would also be ‘just rewards’ for Tony Shaw who has played a significant role in his rehabilitation and now has an ownership share. Purdons happy with the champ’s prep ahead of return By Michael Guerin Trainer Mark Purdon and most punters want the same thing from Akuta’s comeback at Alexandra Park tonight. They probably just want it delivered in different ways. The one-time superstar of New Zealand racing returns tonight after 20 months away from the racetrack, his career all but ended by a split tendon in his leg. If it wasn’t for a very detailed rehabilitation plan put in place by veterinarian Barbara Hunter, who is now also Purdon’s fiancee, the champion trainer says Akuta wouldn’t be back at the track tonight. “When it happened he was given a 10 per cent chance of racing again,” says Purdon. “But Barb put a really detailed plan in place and part of that was once it was healing to keep it that region stretched and active. “So he spent time being ridden and then he has been wonderfully looked after by Tony Shaw, who now has a share in the horse as our way of saying thank you for all the work he has done with him.” So can punter’s back the former Auckland Cup winner with confidence tonight? “Well, he seems very sound and has handled everything well so far,” explains Purdon. “He is working like a good horse should and on class you would think he could have their measure.” But Purdon has been doing this for long enough to know the easiest way to undo a campaign is to start it by giving a horse a headache which brings us to tonight’s tactics from the outside of the front line over 1700m with junior driver Brooke Wilkins, her junior concession allowing Akuta to start in the race. Punters who take the short odds would love to see Akuta race forward, wrest the lead and blow his rivals away as a former Taylor Mile winner should in a mid-grade sprint. After all, punters taking short odds love an easy watch. “The problem with going forward is if he doesn’t work out it is hard to have a Plan B,” says Purdon. “I’d hate to see him have a hard run and be finishing on his hands and knees in his first race in so long. “It will be up to Brooke to drive him how he feels and how the race looks, but if he has any luck he should probably win anyway.” That is true but even tonight’s rivals who are rated 20-40 points below Akuta are capable of pacing a 1:53 mile rate or quicker for 1700m, whether Akuta is actually a sensible bet will come down to final price with the opening TAB quote of $1.35 too short to be value. Purdon and his son Nathan are in the perfect position to rate the opposition as they also train Treacherous Baby, who looks one of Akuta’s main rivals. “As good a mare as she is, it would hard to see her beating him,” says Purdon. The stable also has two reps in Race 2 tonight with little between River (No.1) and debutante Georgie Best (No.6). “There wouldn’t be much between them but they were supposed to go in a two-year-old race that didn’t get off the ground so they have to take on the older horses. “River will be hard to beat and with her draw might be slightly the better chance but I would prefer to see her driven with cover, being a two-year-old filly against the older horses. “But if the colt [Georgie Best] can get in front of her and even around to the lead he would be really hard to beat.” View the full article

George Weaver-trained stablemates Governor Sam and Ortley Avenue, the 1-2 finishers of last month's Quick Call Stakes (G3T), return for the $175,000 Mahony Stakes (G3T) Aug. 10 at Saratoga Race Course.View the full article

A stakes schedule packed with $3.575 million in purses will headline this year's 14-day September Meet at Churchill Downs, which runs Thursday, Sept. 11 through Sunday, Sept. 28 and features 11 stakes contests over three weekends. Saturday, Sept. 13 sets the tone with five stakes races led by the $400,000 GII Fasig-Tipton Locust Grove and the first points events on the Road to the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks: the $300,000 GIII Iroquois and $300,000 GIII Pocahontas. The second Saturday of the meet on Sept. 20 includes four more stakes topped by the $300,000 GIII Dogwood. The stakes action concludes Saturday, Sept. 27 with a duo of marquee races: the $500,000 GII Lukas Classic and $400,000 GIII Ack Ack. Four weeks later, Churchill Downs will host its 26-day Fall Meet from Sunday, Oct. 26 through Sunday, Nov. 30 with 16 stakes worth $5 million. Thanksgiving weekend once again anchors the Fall Meet: Friday, Nov. 28 will be headlined by the $600,000 GII Clark; and Saturday, Nov. 29 features the Stars of Tomorrow II card headlined by the $400,000 GII Kentucky Jockey Club and $400,000 GII Golden Rod. The meet will open with the first Stars of Tomorrow card on Sunday, Oct. 26 led by the $200,000 GIII Street Sense and $200,000 Rags to Riches. The post Churchill Downs to Host 11 Stakes Worth $3.575 Million During September Meet 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 Chukyo and Niigata Racecourses: Saturday, August 9, 2025 3rd-NII, ¥14,250,000 ($97k), Newcomers, 2yo, 1200mT JANSHI (c, 2, More Than Ready–Autumnal, by Forestry) made $80,000 at last year's Keeneland September sale and was knocked down to trainer Hideyuki Mori for $280,000 at this year's OBS March Sale after breezing an eighth of a mile in :9 4/5 (see below). Hailing from the final crop of his legendary sire, the Mar. 30 foal is a full-brother to Eclipse Award-winning turf female and 'TDN Rising Star' Rushing Fall and a half to SW & MGSP Milam (Street Sense), herself the dam of GSP Lakota Spirit. The Grade III-placed granddam Marie J (Mr. Prospector) is responsible for the stakes-placed and stakes-producing Sisti's Pride (Forestry). Owner Susumu Fujita campaigned the sire's Group 2-winning juvenile and fellow OBS grad Jean Gros. O-Susumu Fujita; B-Fred Hertrich III & John D Fielding (KY); T-Hideyuki Mori 即ヅモなるか──。 土曜新潟３Ｒでデビューするジャンシを。 由来は「雀士」。先週末は坂路５０秒９をマークしています。 阿佐田哲也、小島武夫、桜井章一、古川凱章先生らの伝説級！？#ジャンシ #モアザンレディ#森秀行 #藤田晋 #雀士 pic.twitter.com/xjnNWkn0YR — 日刊ゲンダイ　競馬 (@gendai_keiba) August 7, 2025 8th-NII, ¥30,400,000 ($206k), Allowance, 2yo, 1400mT YU PHAROAH (c, 2, American Pharoah–Limari, by Medaglia d'Oro) was a respectable fifth on 1400-meter debut, but defied odds of 18-1 to graduate over the metric six furlongs at Kokura June 28. A $75,000 acquisition by Mori out of last year's Keeneland September sale, the February-foaled bay is the year-younger half-brother to West Beach (Omaha Beach), second in last year's Kentucky Downs Juvenile Mile, and is out of a half-sister to Eclair (Bernardini), winner of the Golden Gate Debutante Stakes back in 2019. The yearling half-sister to Yu Pharoah is cataloged as hip 401 at next month's Keeneland September Sale. O-K Aietsu; B-Don Alberto Corporation & American Pharoah Syndicate; T-Hideyuki Mori 10th-CKO, ¥15,200,000 ($103k), Allowance, 3yo/up, 1400m AMERICAN BEYOND (c, 3, McKinzie–Church by the Sea, by Harlan's Holiday) is one of four winners from as many to race out of his dam, whose MGSW daughter Significant Form (Creative Cause) is responsible for the stakes-winning Opulent Restraint (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}), a close third in last month's GI Belmont Oaks Invitational at Saratoga. A $275,000 Keeneland November weanling and $400,000 KEESEP yearling, the bay is also kin to GSW Hay Dakota (Haynesfield) and to the dam of Bobrovsky (Daredevil), a 10 1/2-length maiden winner at the Spa July 24. Second dam Witness Post (Gone West) produced GSW & GISP Hello Liberty (Forest Camp). O-Yoshizawa Holdings Co Ltd; B-Brereton C Jones (KY); T-Hideaki Fujiwara Sunday, August 10, 2025 3rd-NII, ¥14,250,000 ($97k), Newcomers, 2yo, 1200m IDATEN SHACHO (c, 2, Goldencents–Wildcat Belle, by Intidab) was bought back on a bid of $40,000 out of last year's Fasig-Tipton New York-Bred Sale, but improved into a $145,000 OBS March juvenile after drilling a furlong in :9 4/5 (see below). The colt's yearling half-sister by Omaha Beach is set to sell as hip 429 during Monday's session at the FTNAUG sale in Saratoga. Idaten Shacho is the mount of leading jockey Yuga Kawada. O-Miki House HK Service Co Ltd; B-Willow Brook Stables (NY); T-Hideyuki Mori The post Rushing Fall Juvenile Full-Brother Set For Niigata Debut appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Prettiest Star (Starman) was the subject of support on this debut into 15-8 favouritism, and cruising to the fore before two out, the homebred drew away to score with a large degree of comfort by 4 1/2 lengths from Sara Moon (Oasis Dream). “She was very cool and calm and pretty professional–she did the job nicely,” commented owner-breeder David Ward, who was watching his first runner by the sire he bred and campaigned to win a July Cup, and who now sits on 17 first-crop winners. “It's one thing to breed and race a horse, but it's another to breed one by a stallion you bred and I'm absolutely delighted. This was a nice opportunity and it worked out. Starman has everything and I'm very proud. Their temperament is excellent and we have another eight or nine of his to run.” The winner is the second foal out of Ediyva (Kingman), a €300,000 purchase from the Aga Khan Studs draft at 2021 Goffs November who is a daughter of the G3 Athasi Stakes winner Emiyna (Maria's Mon). That makes her a half-sister to three black-type performers headed by the dual Stakes winner Elamaz (Gleneagles), who was also runner-up in the G2 Oettingen Rennen. From the dynasty of the G1 Gold Cup winners Estimate (Monsun) and Enzeli (Kahyasi) and the Irish Oaks heroine Ebadiyla (Sadler's Wells), her yearling filly is by Zarak while her 2025 colt is a full-brother to the winner. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $4,976. O-David Ward; B-Northern Star Bloodstock Ltd; T-Ed Walker. Winning debut The Prettiest Star (Starman) does the business nicely for @edwalkerracing pic.twitter.com/kFclyZNZ3p — Racing TV (@RacingTV) August 7, 2025 The post ‘Very Proud’ David Ward Reflects On His Starman Homebred The Prettiest Star’s Debut Win 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 Friday at Saratoga and Ellis Park. Friday, August 8, 2025 Saratoga 1, $80k, 2yo, (R), 6f, 1:10 p.m. Horse (Sire), Sale, Price ($), Breeze Fin Del Mundo (Rock Your World), OBSAPR, 45,000, :21 4/5 C-Six Ks Training & Sales, agent; B-Robert M Jones Hong Kong Phooey (Complexity), FTMMAY, 40,000, :10 2/5 C-Julie Davies, agent; B-Rudy Rodriguez Running On Bourbon (Bourbon Courage), FTMMAY, 55,000, G C-Hidden Brook, agent; B-McMahon & Hill, agent Bourbon Lane Saratoga 3, $100k, 2yo, f, 1 1/16mT, 2:20 p.m. Deep Learning (Cairo Prince), OBSAPR, 325,000, :20 4/5 C-Eddie Woods, agent; B-Klaravich Stable Inc Well Shaken (Frosted), OBSMAR, 37,000, :10 1/5 C-Jose Munoz; B-Sunset Ridge Farms, Ricehorse, agent Ellis 6, $100k, 2yo, 6f, 3:12 p.m. Circle Tap (Twirling Candy), OBSAPR, 335,000, :21 2/5 C-Pick View LLC, agent; B-Willis Horton Racing LLC Infiltrate (Oscar Performance), OBSAPR, 270,000, :20 4/5 C-Tom McCrocklin, agent; B-Fergus Galvin, agent Island Town (Echo Town), OBSAPR, 180,000, :20 4/5 C-Thorostock LLC; B-L & N Racing LLC Saratoga 5, $90k, 2yo, (S), 5 1/2fT, 3:30 p.m. Truman's Commander (Omaha Beach), OBSAPR, 50,000, :10 2/5 C-Omar Ramirez Bloodstock, agent; B-Harry Rosenblum Saratoga 6, $80k, 2yo, (R), 6f, 4:06 p.m. Aye Eye (Esssential Quality), FTMMAY, 45,000, G C-Julie Davies, agent; B-Robert Cotran Escape Hall (Independence Hall), OBSAPR, 42,000, :21 1/5 C-Wavertree Stables Inc (C Dunne), agt; B-Three Diamonds Farm Tactics (Tacitus), FTMMAY, 60,000, G C-Endurance Equine, agent; B-Repole Stable The post Summer Breezes Sponsored By OBS: Friday, August 8, 2025 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

One of those Ballydoyle juveniles who can make giant strides from start one to two, Montreal (Sea The Stars) looked every inch a 2026 Derby prospect as he stormed to an eight-length maiden success at Leopardstown on Thursday. Always happy on the front end under Wayne Lordan, the 6-4 favourite who had been third over this mile trip and track last month set sail in the straight to put healthy daylight between him and the Jessica Harrington-trained Strikewhileitshot (Too Darn Hot). “They went steady the last day and Ryan said he was a little bit green when they quickened,” his rider said of the sire's 21st TDN Rising Star who is a half-brother to the G2 Blandford Stakes winner and Irish Oaks runner-up Cayenne Pepper (Australia). “Today he got out a bit more professional and went a nice even gallop–I knew the way I quickened he was going to put some distance between them and I went out through the line pretty well. Whatever he does this year is a bonus, as I think he'll stay next year.” Montreal (Sea The Stars) absolutely hoses up in the @LeopardstownRC opener pic.twitter.com/3cTrfyZwKS — Racing TV (@RacingTV) August 7, 2025 The post Sea The Stars’s Derby Prospect Montreal A New TDN Rising Star For Ballydoyle appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Speaking Aug. 7 during a KTDF committee meeting, Keeneland vice president of racing Gatewood Bell said the track's winner's circle area for stakes competitors will move to what had previously been the paddock walking ring area.View the full article

Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert bids for his fourth straight victory and 12th overall win in the Aug. 9 Best Pal Stakes (G3) at Del Mar with impressive maiden winner Desert Gate and St. Petersburg, a $700,000 son of Constitution. View the full article

Observations on the European Racing Scene turns the spotlight on the best European races of the day, highlighting well-bred horses early in their careers, horses of note returning to action and young runners that achieved notable results in the sales ring. Friday's Observations features a full-sister to a Group 1 winner. 5.55 Newmarket, Mdn, 2yo, f, 8fT RIBBON OF SEA (IRE) (Sea The Stars {Ire}) is a significant Godolphin runner for Charlie Appleby's stable on an intriguing “Newmarket Nights” card full of tantalising prospects, being a full-sister to the G1 Prix de Royallieu heroine Sea Silk Road who cost 1.6 million gns at Tattersalls October Book 1. Among her peers is the similarly-unraced Legacy Link (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}), Juddmonte's first foal out of the Galileo mare Chiasma, gold dust as a full-sister to Frankel and Noble Mission, who races for John and Thady Gosden. 6.30 Newmarket, Mdn, 2yo, 6fT GAURDMAN (IRE) (Blue Point {Ire}) was one of the focal points of the Arqana May Breeze Up, with KHK Racing going to €900,000 for the half-brother to two Listed performers. Roger Varian has charge of the exciting juvenile, whose opponents include another pricey newcomer in Saeed Suhail's 340,000gns Tattersalls October Book 1 graduate Crown Office (GB) (No Nay Never), a William Haggas-trained son of Antonia De Vega who boasted the rare distinction of beating Alpinista in the G3 Princess Royal Stakes. The post Sea Silk Road’s Sister Ribbon Of Sea Debuts At Newmarket appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article