Wandering Eyes

Bidding was fierce for lot 168–a son of Mehmas (Ire) and the G2 Sapphire Stakes third Rapid Reaction (Ire) (Shamardal)–and the bay brought €1 million from Godolphin during the Goffs Doncaster Breeze-Up Sale on Thursday. Richard Brown and Alex Elliott were underbidders on the Greenhills Farm-consigned colt. His dam is a half-sister to multiple stakes winner and multiple group-placed Katla (Ire) (Majestic Missile {Ire}). Group 1 winner and successful sire Wootton Bassett (GB) is under the third dam. Bred by Milestream Stud Company, Ltd., he was a €140,000 foal purchase by Anna Sundstrom and Filip Zwicky at the Goffs November Foal Sale. He did not meet his reserve and was a €140,000 buy-back at the Arqana August Yearling Sale last year. Tally-Ho Stud's Mehmas is responsible for the current trio of top lots, a €720,000 colt and a €650,000 filly. £1,000,000 for lot 168 @GoffsUK breeze up. It's been a day for records being set and the popularity of Mehmas continues. This colt by the sire was consigned by Greenhills Farm and has been bought by Godolphin. pic.twitter.com/pcmgx9dVjF — TDN (@theTDN) April 24, 2025 The post Godolphin Goes To €1 Million For Son Of Mehmas At Doncaster appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Seven new members have been elected to the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame is headed by Smarty Jones, a finalist for the first time. Additionally, Kentucky-breds Decathlon and Hermis and trainer George H. Conway have been chosen by the 1900-1959 Historic Review Committee; and Edward L. Bowen, Arthur B. Hancock III, and Richard Ten Broeck have been elected by the Pillars of the Turf Committee. In the contemporary category, Pennsylvania-bred Smarty Jones was the lone candidate to appear on the majority of ballots submitted (50% plus one vote is required for election). A total of 157 voters (90.2%) participated from the 171 eligible to cast ballots in the election. The candidates in the Historic Review and Pillars of the Turf categories were required to receive 75% approval from the respective committees to earn election. The 2025 Hall of Fame class will be enshrined on Friday, Aug. 1, at the Fasig-Tipton sales pavilion in Saratoga Springs at 10:30 a.m. The ceremony will be broadcast live on the Museum website at www.racingmuseum.org. The event is open to the public and free to attend. Tom Durkin will serve as the master of ceremonies. Bred in Pennsylvania by Someday Farm, Smarty Jones (Elusive Quality–I'll Get Along, by Smile) raced from 2003 through 2004, winning eight of his nine career starts, including the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes in his sophomore season, and was voted the Eclipse Award for Champion 3-Year-Old Male in 2004. Owned by Roy and Pat Chapman under their Someday Farm banner, Smarty Jones was trained by John C. Servis and ridden exclusively by Stewart Elliott. George H. Conway (1873-1939) is best known for training Hall of Famer War Admiral to a sweep of the 1937 Triple Crown and to an overall record of 21-3-1 from 26 starts and earnings of $273,240 from 1936 through 1938. A native of Oceanport, N.J., Conway also conditioned Hall of Fame member Crusader, as well as standouts Speed Boat, War Glory, and War Heros. Edward L. Bowen (1942-2025) was a prolific racing journalist and historian for more than 60 years and served the sport in various other capacities, including 24 years as president of the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation. A native of Welch, W. Va., Bowen was an Eclipse Award-winning journalist, editor in chief of The BloodHorse, author of 22 books about horse racing, and chairman of the National Museum of Racing's Hall of Fame Nominating Committee from 1987 through 2024. Arthur B. Hancock III was born in Nashville, Tenn., and for six decades has been a significant presence in American racing and breeding through his establishment of Stone Farm in 1970 near Paris, Ky. A member of one of the sport's most prolific racing and breeding families, Hancock's grandfather, Arthur B. Hancock, Sr., founded Claiborne Farm, while his father, Arthur B. “Bull” Hancock, Jr., expanded the operation to be among one of the most important breeding operations in the country. In partnership with one of his longtime clients, Manhattan real estate broker Leone J. Peters, Hancock bred and raced Gato Del Sol, who won the 1982 Derby. Hancock and Peters also teamed up to breed Risen Star, winner of the 1988 Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes. Through H-G-W Partners, Hancock owned and raced Hall of Fame member and 1989 Horse of the Year Sunday Silence, whose wins included the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Breeders' Cup Classic. Hancock also co-bred 2000 Kentucky Derby winner Fusaichi Pegasus. Richard Ten Broeck (1811-1892) was one of American racing's most prominent and accomplished figures in the 19th century, enjoying success as a racehorse and racetrack owner, Thoroughbred breeder, and international racing pioneer. A native of Albany, N.Y., Ten Broeck took over management of the Bingaman (Louisiana) and Bascombe (Alabama) courses in 1847 and in 1851, he purchased Metairie Race Course in New Orleans for $27,000. Under his management, Metairie became the premier track in the country in the decade prior to the Civil War. Broeck holds the distinction of being the first American owner to win an important race in England. With the help of Lecomte, Prioress, and Starke, he held a presence in that country for three decades. Bred in Kentucky by the Nuckols Brothers, Decathlon (Olympia–Dog Blessed, by Bull Dog) raced from 1955 through 1957, compiling a record of 25-8-1 from 42 starts and earnings of $269,530. Purchased at Keeneland in 1954 for $15,500 by Robert J. Dienst (the president of Ohio's Beulah Park) and campaigned under his River Divide Farm banner, Decathlon was trained by Rollie Shepp. In his three years of racing, the bay colt won 18 stakes and was twice named Champion Sprint Horse (1956, 1957). He set track records at Monmouth Park, Suffolk Downs, and Tropical Park, equaled two track standards at Tropical, and matched the world record for 5½ furlongs (1:03 1/5) at Tropical in the first division of the Inaugural Handicap in 1956. Bred in Kentucky by Hiram Berry, Hermis (Hermence–Katy of the West, by Spendrift) raced from 1901 through 1905 with a record of 28-8-6 from 55 starts and earnings of $84,155. The chestnut was trained by Charles Hughes (July 1901 through August 1902), Jack McCormick (August 1902 through October 1902), and Alexander Shields (June 1903 through July 1905). He raced for a variety of owners, including H. M. Ziegler, L. V. Bell, and Edward R. Thomas (who paid a record $60,000 for the horse). Hermis was retrospectively recognized by The BloodHorse-published book The Great Ones as Horse of the Year in 1902 and 1903; Champion 3-Year-Old Male in 1902; and Champion Older Male in 1903 and 1904. To view more information on all the inductees, click here. The post Smarty Jones Heads 2025 Hall of Fame Class appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Churchill Downs outlined its slate of partners and on-site brand experiences for the 151st Kentucky Derby on May 3. This year's food and beverages sponsors include: Brown-Forman returns as a premier partner, featuring the $5,000 Woodford Reserve Mint Julep experience, the classic Old Forester Mint Julep, and the refreshing Herradura Reposado Margarita. White Claw returns as the Official Hard Seltzer of the Kentucky Derby. Red Bull returns to the track offering an exclusive new limited-time flavor, Red Bull Summer Edition White Peach, at their summer-themed activation in the Infield and various locations around the track for guests to enjoy. Jackson Family Wines returns as the Preferred Wine of the Kentucky Derby with a La Crema pop-up in the Paddock Plaza and a Kendall-Jackson sampling activation in the Clubhouse. Wisconsin Cheese will debut at the Kentucky Derby serving samples of their premium cheeses in the Clubhouse Gate Plaza as well as with a premium cheese cart in select suite areas. Also offering a presence in 2025: Longines continues an elegant tradition as presenting sponsor of the Longines Kentucky Oaks. vineyard vines returns as the Official Style of the Kentucky Derby, unveiling its 15th exclusive collection. This year, vineyard vines will also present the Infield stage with music. The Retail Row experience returns to the Woodford Reserve Paddock Plaza for its second year. It features a curated lineup of returning brands including Radley London, Brackish and Tecovas, which is making its Derby debut. Passion Roses, the Official Rose Provider of the Kentucky Derby. Kroger returns as the Official Crafter of The Kentucky Derby Garland of Roses and will display the coveted Garland of Roses in the Woodford Reserve Paddock Plaza from approximately 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Resolute Racing joins as the presenting sponsor of WINSDAY, a new Derby Week event that shines the spotlight on Louisville's non-profit community. They will also recognize the dedication of grooms by presenting Best Turned Out awards on both Oaks and Derby Day. Sports Illustrated celebrity hosts, Olivia “Livvy” Dunne and Jayson Werth will mingle with guests, featuring exclusive photo opportunities and fan engagement moments within the space. Sentient Jet, the Preferred Private Jet of the Kentucky Derby will provide gourmet chocolates to guests in select premium spaces. Romeo y Julieta features their licensed Kentucky Derby 151 cigar in a lounge near the Clubhouse gate. Ford Motor Company brings new horsepower to the track with “The Pony,” a non-alcoholic mocktail served near the Paddock gate and in the Ford First Turn Club, in addition to other on-site activations. SAP returns to help drive Churchill Downs' data strategy forward. Lumen supports Churchill Downs with advanced communications infrastructure. New In 2025: CYGAMES, a Japanese video game company, will be operating a hands-on demo booth on-site at the Infield. The booth will feature previews of its titles Umamusume: Pretty Derby and Shadowverse: Worlds Beyond ahead of their English-language release later this year, as well as demos of the highly acclaimed Granblue Fantasy: Relink and Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising. Veritas Prime brings modern HR and operational systems. Kentucky Derby fans can also enjoy curated experiences and offerings from event partners at Taste of Derby including Woodford Reserve, Longines. Kentucky Derby 151 Artist Tyler Robertson will also be on-site signing Official Artwork of the Kentucky Derby. To learn more about this year's race, visit www.KentuckyDerby.com. The post Sponsors Outlined for 151st Kentucky Derby appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Dr. Kenny Katz has been elected the new President of Jockeys and Jeans, according to an organization release Thursday. The appointment was made following the retirement of interim President and founding member, Dr. Eddie Donnally, Interim Jockeys and Jeans President and a founding member. Katz, a long-time committee member, has been a podiatrist on Long Island for 38 years, and holds a marketing and statistics degree from Adelphi University. He initiated the four Jockey Bobble Head fundraisers at Gulfstream Park, and his autographed Kentucky Derby and Hall of Fame posters have generated significant donations to the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund. Donnally, along with fellow former jockeys Barry Pearl, Darrell Brown, Mike Manganello and Barbra Jo Rubin, formed the all-volunteer organization in late 2014. Donnally served as President for a short time year before nominating Barry Pearl, who served as President until he resigned in June 2023 and is now a consultant for the group. Donnally was Vice President during those years and became Interim President when Pearl retired. Through an annual charity event as well as an annual stallion season sale, the group has raised $3.85 Million for the PDJF. The charity pays a $1,500 stipend to 55 permanently disabled jockeys. From February of 2024 until February of 2025 Jockeys and Jeans raised a single year record of $458,000. Donnally, 81, is an ordained protestant minister with a Doctorate of Ministry, currently serves as an Ambassador, joining recent Ambassadors Jockey Hall of Fame Member Sandy Hawley, and Craig Bandoroff, a former jockey and owner of Central Kentucky's Denali Stud. The post Jockeys and Jeans Elects Kenny Katz New President Following Eddie Donnally Retirement appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Widden Stud announced their stallion fees on Thursday, with Zoustar (Aus) unchanged at A$275,000 (inc GST) as he continues to battle with Pride Of Dubai (Aus) for the Australian Sires' Premiership. Zoustar, who retired to stud in 2014 after winning the G1 Coolmore Stud Stakes and G1 Golden Rose at three, has eight Southern Hemisphere crops and four Northern Hemisphere crops. From those, he has sired 65 stakes winners led by 10 Group 1 winners. As of Thursday, Zoustar's progeny earnings for 2024/25 stand at A$20.7 million, just behind leader Pride Of Dubai on A$21.2 million. On Saturday, Zoustar has five runners in stakes races, including defending champion Climbing Star (NZ) and three-year-old filly She's Got Pizzazz (Aus) in the A$1 million G1 Robert Sangster Stakes. “We are aware of the gap and are upbeat about it,” said Widden Stud's Matt Comerford. “Zoustar is a sire who continues to reach new heights. Last year, he broke the record for the most winners in a season and he's leading on so many other parameters. “He's very close to leading the Australian Sires' Premiership and his trajectory demonstrates that he can achieve that in a very competitive market. He's been champion first-season sire and champion sire of three-year-olds. This will be another very big honour that he can take on going forward.” Of the other 19 stallions on the Widden Stud roster, new recruit Southport Tycoon (Aus) is the most expensive at A$38,500, ahead of Trapeze Artist (Aus) and another newcomer in Cogburn. Trapeze Artist will stand for a fee of A$33,000–from $55,000 in 2024–while Cogburn has been introduced at A$27,500. The post Zoustar Leads Widden Stud Roster at Unchanged A$275,000 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Aiming for a 12th consecutive victory with Ka Ying Rising (NZ) (Shamexpress), David Hayes had to endure a few nervous moments before the world’s highest-rated sprinter drew perfectly in barrier four for the HK$22 million G1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (27 April). With only three barriers left to be drawn at the official barrier draw function at Sha Tin today (Thursday, 24 April), Ka Ying Rising was faced with the prospect of drawing either gates four, seven or the outside barrier of 13. Luckily for Hayes, John Size’s Helios Express drew barrier 13 and then with two barriers left, Ka Ying Rising was allocated barrier four. “I was very, very happy to see barrier 13 come out (for Helios Express),” Hayes said. “And I thought four was the dream barrier in that scenario. He is a horse that overcomes barriers but you don’t want to be the widest every time.” Confidence continues to grow for Hayes who says Ka Ying Rising is in at least the best form he has been in all year. He said the stable star would run a mighty race and if he gets a normal run, he should be a genuine $1.10 or $1.20 chance. “And if he is better than $1.20, then back him,” he said. A versatile galloper who adapts to all track conditions, Hayes said Ka Ying Rising could break his own Sha Tin track record of 1m 07.20s for 1200m if there was enough early speed in the race. “If he flies the start, he might lead and take it up. If he jumps with them he’ll probably box seat behind some obvious pace but that’s really Zac Purton’s problem now,” Hayes said. “And he’ll have it worked out. He gets it done on the big days so I’m not worried at all. “He can take a sit or lead, either way.” Hayes said that he believes Ka Ying Rising is a bit faster than the three horses – A Shin Fencer, Danon McKinley and Beauty Waves – drawn inside him. “Faster than most horses really,” Hayes said. “He’ll get the rail and Zac will be able to choose whether he leads or takes a sit.” Japan has four contenders in the race headed by Satono Reve who drew six having last start won the G1 Takamatsunomiya Kinen (1200m) in his first run since finishing third to Ka Ying Rising in the G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint (1200m) at Sha Tin on 8 December. Joao Moreira, who has ridden Satono Reve in his past two starts, again takes the ride on Sunday but isn’t underestimating the task it will take to topple the world’s top sprinter. He said he was happy with the barrier draw. “He is a big horse who needs a bit of space,” Moreira said. “It seems like the real pace will come from the outside. “He is a bloody good horse and could be one of those causing an upset here. However, Ka Ying Rising deserves all the respect and he has done so well and is one of the best sprinters in the world, if not the best.” Moreira said Satono Reve is reaching his peak as a six-year-old and doesn’t have to improve too much on last December’s effort to finish alongside Ka Ying Rising. “It was good momentum and I just hope we can keep it up,” he said. “It’ not easy but we are going to try.” Moreira said it was impressive performance in Japan when he downed what the globe-trotting jockey said was a very strong field. He said Satono Reve had improved since his Hong Kong mission and was more competitive. “As you probably know, I sat on him this morning and looking around on the track with him and he gave me a good feel once again and I can’t see a reason why he can’t perform once again,” Moreira said. By Daryl Timms View the full article

Owned by Cheng Ming Leung, Cheng Yu Tung, Cheng Mei Mei and Cheng Yu Wai, Manfred Man-trained Lucky Sweynesse (NZ) (Sweynesse) will resume after a long break in Sunday’s (27 April) HK$22 million G1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m) at Sha Tin’s FWD Champions Day amid hopes of the completion of a great comeback story from the horse. Winner of the 2023 Chairman’s Sprint Prize and acclaimed as Hong Kong’s Champion Sprinter in the 2022/23 season, Lucky Sweynesse suffered a health setback after winning the G2 Sprint Cup (1200m) in April, 2024 and was sidelined from races for more than a year, during which he underwent left fore fetlock surgery. After two impressive winning trials recently, the Sweynesse gelding will bid for the fifth Group 1 win of his career. Veteran owner Cheng Ming Leung, said: “As a racehorse owner, patience is the key and we always have high hopes for our horse. Though he had to be sidelined for a long period, he recovered well and all along his situation was very stable, and we kept the faith that he will return to race one day. “I am excited to see him make a comeback on FWD Champions Day, the same meeting when he scored in the same race two years ago. Having said that, I didn’t rush my trainer but full credit to Man, he and his stable team has done a great job to turn things around. The horse is fully recovered now and is ready for the challenge.” Cheng described Lucky Sweynesse has a tough character and he believes the top-class speedster will be competitive on Sunday. “His performance in his recent trials were very impressive,” Cheng said. “It looks the horse has a good heart and we are all delighted to see him coming back to his best. We always have high hope on him and hopefully he will have a forward showing this time. I have confidence that he will finish in the frame.” Cheng also revealed jockey James McDonald actively asked to ride his horse on Sunday. Cheng said: “James contacted the stable team and actively asked for the ride. He had already achieved success with my horse and with such a top-class jockey on board, it further boosted my confidence.” “Of course, it will not be an easy race with a number of strong opponents including Ka Ying Rising (NZ) (Shamexpress). However, we will try our best and I hope everyone will cheer him on this Sunday.” View the full article

The Horseracing Industry People Board (HIPB) announced on Thursday that it has secured funding from the Racing Foundation and Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) to support the implementation of its immediate programme of activity for 2025. The funding approval follows the publication earlier this year of Our People, Racing's Future, an industry-backed strategy to attract and retain a highly-skilled and well-supported workforce across British racing and breeding. The Racing Foundation and HBLB have agreed funding grants of £489,929 and £269,438, respectively–a combined contribution of over £759,000. Julia Tyson, chair of the HIPB, said, “We are very grateful to the Racing Foundation and Horserace Betting Levy Board for providing this vital funding to support the HIPB's immediate programme of activity for 2025. “This is a significant additional investment in racing's people, which will allow us to deliver new activity and accelerate work already underway, with an immediate focus on supporting those in horse-facing roles.” The post HIPB Secures Funding for 2025 Programme of Activity appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Crocetti will take on the Australians in Saturday’s $5 million The Quokka (1200m) at Ascot. (Photo: Kenton Wright – Race Images) New Zealand Group One-winning sprinter Crocetti is primed and ready to go for Saturday’s $5 million The Quokka (1200m) at Ascot on Saturday. Co-trainer Danny Walker has been in Perth with his gelding for the last two weeks and the South Auckland horseman has been pleased with the way he has settled into his surroundings in Western Australia. “He has settled in well. He is an unflappable sort of horse.” said Walker, who trains in partnership with Arron Tata. “He has done well since he has been here, so we are pretty happy with him.” Crocetti will represent Trackside NZ and Perth Racing’s slot in the rich feature where he has drawn barrier seven against a strong line-up, which includes the Bjorn Baker-trained Overpass, who is shooting for his third straight win in the race. “I think seven is a fair draw for him,” Walker said. Crocetti was given his final piece of serious work at ‘breakfast with the stars’ on Tuesday morning and Walker was pleased with what he saw. “It was quite muggy on the breakfast with the stars morning. I gave him a good sweat up, which was quite good because he probably needed it a little bit,” he said. Walker has been impressed with the facilities on offer at Ascot, both for trainers and the public alike. “It’s been a really good couple of weeks. Everyone has been wonderful to deal with,” he said. “The facilities at Ascot are perfect. They have got some amazing facilities here for the public. “I went to the races on Good Friday and they (public) just flocked in. They had free entry and there was a huge and really enjoyable crowd.” Owner-breeder Daniel Nakhle has already arrived in Perth, with Tata set to join them on Friday. “It is a shame we both (Tata and Walker) couldn’t be here for the whole time, but we have got other horses and clients to think about,” Walker said. “It will be great for all three of us to enjoy it on Saturday.” While hopeful of a bold showing this weekend, Walker said the horse’s welfare is always top of mind. “We are good enough to be here, what happens in the race happens in the race, and as long as he pulls up safe and sound, and we get home safe and sound, that’s the main thing,” he said. “Everything above that is a bonus.” Crocetti is currently at a winning quote of $27 with horse racing bookmakers, with the market headed by Overpass at $2.15, with Headwall on the second line of betting at $6.50. Horse racing news View the full article

El Vencedor has drawn barrier one for Sunday’s Group 1 QEII Cup (2000m) at Sha Tin. (Photo: HKJC) After overcoming an injury scare earlier in the week, fortune has turned in favour of Kiwi flyer El Vencedor, drawing barrier one for Sunday’s HK$28 million Group 1 FWD QEII Cup (2000m) at Sha Tin. The four-time Group One winner was treated for lameness in the left hind leg after arriving in Hong Kong and was restricted to light work until Tuesday morning, where he was passed suitable to complete trackwork at Sha Tin. In the hands of champion hoop Zac Purton, El Vencedor completed his final serious piece of work on Thursday morning, albeit after having a decent look at the vast surroundings at Sha Tin. “All happy, it was good to have Zac on today to get a feel for him,” trainer Stephen Marsh said. “He’s got a massive grandstand to look at here and it took him a little while to get going. Once he got going, he’s still not fully concentrating, but having that underway now, it should bring him on beautifully. “It’s a pretty daunting experience, you’ve got big screens here, bigger than most houses, and the grandstands are nearly over the track. It’s good he’s had a look now and he’ll be all the better for it.” When questioned on preference for barrier draws, Marsh indicated anywhere between one and five would be ideal for his charge and that became a reality as co-owner and co-breeder David Price selected the ace barrier later in the day. “It’s pretty unreal, three country boys coming to the big lights,” Price said. “It’s been fantastic, Hong Kong Jockey Club have been amazing hosts.” The son of Shocking will be up against a number of serious international stars in the QEII Cup, with the likes of Cap Ferratt, Prognosis and Goliath. While Price is unsure of where his form stacks up against those horses, El Vencedor’s versatility is his strength. “He’s a strong horse, he can lead, he can trail and he’s got a high cruising speed. Tactically, that makes him relatively easy to ride,” he said. “It’s hard to line it up (New Zealand form), we were ranked number 10 in the world in the LONGINES ratings, so we just don’t know. We haven’t raced against these horses, but he’s coming here on the top of his game, and we just hope that’s good enough. “Win, lose or draw, it’s going to be fantastic.” Horse racing news View the full article

‘Magic Man’ believes Japanese star can take it to ‘outstanding’ local speedster in Group One Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1,200m).View the full article

Ka Ying Rising lands stall four for the Chairman’s Sprint Prize, while Mr Brightside will jump from gate two in the Champions Mile.View the full article

It will be an ANZAC day with a difference at Addington. In what is the first collaboration between the One NZ Warriors, Harness Racing New Zealand and Addington Raceway a special ANZAC League and Racing Night will be held. The collaboration was announced in March. A 10 race programme will get underway at 2.55 pm on Friday with the final race at 7.12pm giving league fans plenty of time to head across the road to Apollo Projects Stadium to see the One NZ Warriors take on the Newcastle Knights, with kick-off at 8pm. Earlier in the week a very limited number of tickets for the racing-league package were made available. They were for dinner, drinks and a ticket to the game. They got snapped up in no time, with the game itself already a sell out. Dinner or dinner and drinks packages are still available, with prices starting at $62. Go to addington.co.nz for more details. There’ll be plenty of action happening off the track too including guest appearances by two NRLW One NZ Warriors players. They will do a meet and greet and be available for photos. There will be fun activities for the kids throughout the afternoon, including spot prizes and a chance to win a signed One NZ Warriors jersey. Just scan the QR code displayed on course to enter the draw. Among the league and/or ANZAC themes races on the day will be Race 2, Wah-Hine ANZAC Classic for the Fillies and Mares and Race 7, the Up The Wahs Mobile Pace (5.50pm). Included in the field is the omen bet of the night – Warrior Chief. He’s currently a $4.80 second favourite behind Arthur Shelby. Fittingly the night will round out with Race 10, The Last Post Free For All Mobile Pace (7.12pm). View the full article

Rich Hill Stud’s Group One stallion roster has enjoyed another stellar year and the farm’s 2025 service fees will reflect that success while also being mindful of the uncertain economic times. Champion sire Proisir will stand at $70,000 + GST, Satono Aladdin at $45,000 + GST, Ace High will be offered at $15,000 + GST and Shocking at $10,000 + GST. “Breeders who have supported Rich Hill stallions over recent seasons have reaped substantial rewards,” Rich Hill Managing Director John Thompson said. “Our 2025 service fees directly reflect this ongoing success, but we have made some adjustments in line with current market challenges. “This ensures the industry continues to benefit from the exceptional value they offer.” Proisir’s progeny have again excelled across the racetracks of Australasia, with 19 individual stakes performers already this season. His 10 individual Australasian stakes winners include multiple Group winner Waitak, brilliant mare Legarto and three-year-olds Vegas Queen and Sergeant Major. Proisir currently ranks second by earnings on the New Zealand Sires’ Premiership and leads by individual stakes winners (seven), winners (41), and total wins (56). His 2025 yearlings were highly sought after and again provided breeders with outstanding returns. At Karaka, he sired three of the top five priced yearlings, including the spectacular Donna Marie filly who fetched $1,100,000 and his 41 Book 1 yearlings averaged $233,171. “Going forward, we can all be very excited about Proisir’s future results,” Thompson said. “We eagerly anticipate his upcoming two-year-olds, which are the first progeny to race from the higher quality mare books bred over the last three seasons.” Deep Impact’s son Satono Aladdin will return to New Zealand this season and despite not having a current crop of Southern Hemisphere three-year-olds, he has maintained his profile as one of New Zealand’s leading young sires. His Australasian progeny statistics are world class and from limited early opportunities has a 12.2 per cent ratio of stakes winners to runners. His 2020-21 crop of 43 foals has produced six individual Group winners at a remarkable 14 per cent Group winners to foals, including Firestorm, Raf Attack, Lupo Solitario and Tokyo Tycoon. Satono Aladdin also excelled in the sale ring, with his twenty-nine 2025 Book One yearlings averaging $170,690 and selling up to $525,000. At the recent Sydney Easter Yearling Sale, his Gallwitz filly from the Trelawney Stud consignment sold for A$725,000. “Satono Aladdin’s progeny displays incredible versatility and class. With his larger foal crops now emerging, his future impact on Australasian racing and breeding looks set to ascend to new heights over the next few seasons,” Thompson said. Proven Group One producer Shocking has enjoyed another excellent season. The highlight for Shocking fans was his February Group One double at Te Rapa with El Vencedor capturing the Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) and Here To Shock claiming the Waikato Sprint (1400m). Shocking also came close to a unique Group One Derby double when his son Scary ran second in the VRC Derby and Packing Angel was a close third in the Hong Kong Derby. Furthermore, he continues to enhance his legacy as a broodmare sire, most recently through Repo Bay, dam of Proisir’s Group One winner Waitak. “Shocking’s racetrack progeny consistently delivers outstanding results, and he offers breeders access to a proven Group One sire at remarkable value,” Thompson said. Ace High has made a flying start to his stud career, siring Gr.1 1000 Guineas (1600m) winner Molly Bloom from his first crop. The momentum has continued this season with My Lips Are Sealed winning at Group level and the talented performers She’s A Hustler, O’Ziggy, Texas Dolly, Bullets High and Angland all coming through the grades. Ace High’s second crop of three-year-olds are also impressing, with stakes performers Kitty Flash and Dealt With supported by emerging runners such as She’s A Dealer, Croupier, Canny Queen and Katashi. “Ace High continues to attract strong breeder support achieving his largest book yet in 2024,” Thompson said. “His 2025 yearlings averaged $122,000 at Karaka Book One and given his impeccable pedigree as a son of influential sire High Chaparral, Ace High’s progeny are set to thrive as they mature and step up in distance.” View the full article

After overcoming an injury scare earlier in the week, fortune has turned in favour of Kiwi flyer El Vencedor (NZ) (Shocking), drawing barrier one for Sunday’s HK$28 million Gr.1 FWD QEII Cup (2000m) at Sha Tin. The four-time Group One winner was treated for lameness in the left hind leg after arriving in Hong Kong and was restricted to light work until Tuesday morning, where he was passed suitable to complete trackwork at Sha Tin. In the hands of champion hoop Zac Purton, El Vencedor completed his final serious piece of work on Thursday morning, albeit after having a decent look at the vast surroundings at Sha Tin. “All happy, it was good to have Zac on today to get a feel for him,” trainer Stephen Marsh said. “He’s got a massive grandstand to look at here and it took him a little while to get going. Once he got going, he’s still not fully concentrating, but having that underway now, it should bring him on beautifully. “It’s a pretty daunting experience, you’ve got big screens here, bigger than most houses, and the grandstands are nearly over the track. It’s good he’s had a look now and he’ll be all the better for it.” When questioned on preference for barrier draws, Marsh indicated anywhere between one and five would be ideal for his charge and that became a reality as co-owner and co-breeder David Price selected the ace barrier later in the day. “It’s pretty unreal, three country boys coming to the big lights,” Price said. “It’s been fantastic, Hong Kong Jockey Club have been amazing hosts.” The son of Shocking will be up against a number of serious international stars in the QEII Cup, with the likes of Cap Ferratt, Prognosis and Goliath. While Price is unsure of where his form stacks up against those horses, El Vencedor’s versatility is his strength. “He’s a strong horse, he can lead, he can trail and he’s got a high cruising speed. Tactically, that makes him relatively easy to ride,” he said. “It’s hard to line it up (New Zealand form), we were ranked number 10 in the world in the LONGINES ratings, so we just don’t know. We haven’t raced against these horses, but he’s coming here on the top of his game, and we just hope that’s good enough. “Win, lose or draw, it’s going to be fantastic.” View the full article

Well-bred stayer Rainbow Delight (NZ) (Savabeel) has found his feet back on home soil and will aim to complete a hattrick at Te Rapa on Saturday when contesting the Marsh Racing – Good Luck ‘EV’ (2400m). A son of champion sire Savabeel and multiple Australian Group One-winning mare Suavito, ainbow Delight is a half-brother to Group Three-winning filly Sethito (NZ) (Super Seth), and was initially prepared by Forsman to place in a two-year-old trial before he was sold to Hong Kong. Unplaced in three starts in the Asian jurisdiction, Rainbow Delight returned to be raced by the Cambridge horseman and in his second run back, he picked up an awaited maiden victory. “I trained him and he only had the one trial before he was sold up to Hong Kong,” Forsman said. “He didn’t really settle in and I don’t think there was a lot of suitable racing up there for a staying type of horse like he is. “We were thankful to have him back and give him his chance here, it’s taken him a fair while to acclimatise and get back into how we do things down here, but he seems to have his confidence up now.” That confidence was on full display at Trentham earlier this month, where Rainbow Delight put an extending six-length margin on his rivals over 2200m. While never questioning his talent, Forsman was still more hopeful than confident that he would produce such an effort. “I was hopeful, but you never know,” Forsman said. “He’s certainly capable of that, I just really wanted to see him put back-to-back performances together. “He’s won a couple of fairly winnable races and he strikes another here, but he’s going up in grade every time, so you don’t quite know where his level is. On ability, he can be winning again.” Later in the day, Gr.2 Auckland Guineas (1400) winner Yaldi (NZ) (Ardrossan) will chase another stakes victory in the Gr.3 Windsor Park Stud Cambridge Breeders’ Stakes (1200m), but is coming off an uncharacteristic run at the course a fortnight ago. Forsman is willing to put that effort behind him, where Yaldi raced fiercely midfield behind a slow tempo and was unable to finish in his typical fashion. “He got back on a slow tempo and he just wanted to over-race and get on with it,” Forsman said. “I think we have to put it behind us, he was pretty fresh going into it. “This is a bigger, better field and there will be a lot more tempo on. I think he should be fine, it’s just the wide draw and hoping he doesn’t get too far off them.” Talented juvenile The Espy (NZ) (U S Navy Flag) is looking to finish his brief campaign with a flourish in the Cambridge Raceway 2YO (1200m) after impressing second-up at Tauranga in late March. Off the back of that performance, Forsman considered a tilt at stakes company for the son of U S Navy Flag but opted to bypass the Listed Star Way Stakes (1200m) on a soft surface. “He does want a really good track and I think the track would’ve just not suited the other day, with the bad weather and forecast leading into it,” Forsman said. “Hopefully he gets a decent surface on Saturday and at this stage it looks like he might, we just hope the rain that is forecasted on the day doesn’t eventuate. “This will be it for him, he’ll go out for a break and come back to be ready for the spring.” Across the Tasman on Friday, Forsman will have one representative out of his Flemington stable in Prochester (NZ) (Proisir) taking on the Listed VRC St Leger (2800m). The Proisir three-year-old produced the best run of his career last start when third in the Gr.3 Manawatu Classic (2100m), won by subsequent Gr.3 Championship Stakes (2100m) winner Kiwi Skyhawk (NZ) (Contributer). “The only other option left for him over middle distance was Ellerslie and he just hasn’t fired right-handed for whatever reason, so I thought we’d go here, and the further the better for him,” Forsman said. “He’s fairly one-paced, but it was a good solid run the other day so you’d think the 2800 at Flemington should suit him. It’s meant to rain tomorrow (Friday) and I think he’s fine on any track, but if it does cut up a little bit, he may handle it a little better than some others would. “He’s been great since travelling over, he went in the middle of last week and settled in really well.” To be ridden by Harry Coffey, Prochester is among six Kiwi-breds in the A$200,000 contest, including the Te Akau and Fortuna representative West Indies. View the full article

Connections of Jimmysstar (NZ) (Per Incanto) are considering not one, but two clashes in spring with the world’s highest-rated sprinter, Ka Ying Rising (NZ) (Shamexpress), with a chance the All Aged Stakes winner could target the Hong Kong Sprint at the end of the year. Jimmysstar is confirmed as being on his way for a spell after making it a second G1 victory for the autumn last Saturday at Randwick, with connections now aiming up at Ka Ying Rising in October’s The Everest, before a possible trip to Hong Kong for a return bout in the premier sprint race in early December. Managing part-owner Ozzie Kheir said on Thursday that Jimmysstar will not run in any of Brisbane’s three G1 sprints this winter, with a mind to what lies ahead in spring. “Jimmysstar will go for a well-earned break,” Kheir said on Thursday. “Although tempting to head to Brisbane in peak form, as an ownership group in discussion with Ciaron (Maher), we all decided the break now would set him up best for a spring campaign. “He will target The Everest and that potentially leaves the door open for a Hong Kong road trip if all went well. “Jimmysstar has come through his run in great order. Will head to the paddock after a light autumn of four runs and will continue to develop as he’s definitely been a slow-maturing type.” Jimmysstar is currently rated the early favourite with bookmakers for the Queensland G1 sprint treble this winter of the Doomben 10,000 (1200m), Kingsford Smith Cup (1300m) and Stradbroke Handicap (1400m). The former Kiwi galloper has risen to be a genuine G1 horse this autumn after four runs, which yielded G1 wins in the Oakleigh Plate and All Aged Stakes, as well as close-up finishes in the G1 William Reid Stakes (third) and T.J. Smith Stakes (fourth). His domestic rating has gone from 103 prior to the Oakleigh Plate to sit at 115 after last Saturday’s brilliant performance at Randwick. Consideration will be given to keeping Jimmysstar fresh for his Everest conquest. No horse has ever won an Everest first-up, but Jimmysstar’s fresh record is remarkable. Since making his debut with a second placing in a maiden in New Zealand in December 2022, he has won all five first-up runs. A winner of his past 11 starts in Hong Kong and with an international rating of 125, Ka Ying Rising takes centre stage again on Sunday at Sha Tin when he takes on the Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m) as the odds-on favourite. View the full article

New Zealand Group One-winning sprinter Crocetti (NZ) (Zacinto) is primed and ready to go for Saturday’s A$5 million The Quokka (1200m) at Ascot on Saturday. Co-trainer Danny Walker has been in Perth with his gelding for the last two weeks and the South Auckland horseman has been pleased with the way he has settled into his surroundings in Western Australia. “He has settled in well. He is an unflappable sort of horse.” said Walker, who trains in partnership with Arron Tata. “He has done well since he has been here, so we are pretty happy with him.” Crocetti will represent Trackside NZ and Perth Racing’s slot in the rich feature where he has drawn barrier seven against a strong line-up, which includes the Bjorn Baker-trained Overpass, who is shooting for his third straight win in the race. “I think seven is a fair draw for him,” Walker said. Crocetti was given his final piece of serious work at ‘breakfast with the stars’ on Tuesday morning and Walker was pleased with what he saw. “It was quite muggy on the breakfast with the stars morning. I gave him a good sweat up, which was quite good because he probably needed it a little bit,” he said. Walker has been impressed with the facilities on offer at Ascot, both for trainers and the public alike. “It’s been a really good couple of weeks. Everyone has been wonderful to deal with,” he said. “The facilities at Ascot are perfect. They have got some amazing facilities here for the public. “I went to the races on Good Friday and they (public) just flocked in. They had free entry and there was a huge and really enjoyable crowd.” Owner-breeder Daniel Nakhle has already arrived in Perth, with Tata set to join them on Friday. “It is a shame we both (Tata and Walker) couldn’t be here for the whole time, but we have got other horses and clients to think about,” Walker said. “It will be great for all three of us to enjoy it on Saturday.” While hopeful of a bold showing this weekend, Walker said the horse’s welfare is always top of mind. “We are good enough to be here, what happens in the race happens in the race, and as long as he pulls up safe and sound, and we get home safe and sound, that’s the main thing,” he said. “Everything above that is a bonus.” Crocetti is currently at a winning quote of $27 with TAB bookmakers, with the market headed by Overpass at $2.15, with Headwall on the second line of betting at $6.50 View the full article

What Eagle Farm Races Where Eagle Farm Racecourse – 230 Lancaster Rd, Ascot QLD 4007 When Saturday, April 26, 2025 First Race 11:38am AEST Visit Dabble Feature racing returns to a soggy Eagle Farm on Saturday afternoon for a nine-race meeting. Four black-type races will be run, with the Listed Brisbane Mile (1600m) serving as a key lead-in to some of the major races during the Queensland Winter Carnival. There is a fair amount of rain forecast in the lead-up, meaning we are likely to be starting on a Heavy surface. Even with better weather forecast for race day, an upgrade looks unlikely. The rail will be out 5m for the entire circuit, with the action at Eagle Farm set to commence at 11:38am AEST. Calaway Gal tip: Hi Barbie If Hi Barbie is anywhere near her best first-up, she is the one to beat in the Listed Calaway Gal (1200m). The I Am Invincible filly was only beaten 3.3 lengths in the Magic Millions 2YO Classic (1200m) before heading for a spell, hitting the line strongly from the rear of the field. Drawn in barrier two on Saturday, Angela Jones will likely be stalking the speed throughout, and provided the breaks go her way, Hi Barbie should prove far too good. Calaway Gal Race 5 – #1 Hi Barbie (2) 2yo Filly | T: Tony Gollan | J: Angela Jones (56.5kg) Mick Dittman Plate tip: Benzou The Billy Healey-trained Benzou has been racing in decent enough form to give the Mick Dittman Plate (1000m) a rattle at an each-way price with horse racing bookmakers. The son of Zousain has shown tactical versatility throughout his career, being able to win from the rear of a field or closer to the speed. From barrier 10, Cejay Graham will look for a spot just in behind a somewhat chaotic tempo, and if Benzou can offer a similar finish to what he produced first-up, he looks hard to hold out. Mick Dittman Plate Race 6 – #3 Benzou (10) 3yo Gelding | T: Billy Healey | J: Cejay Graham (57kg) Princess Stakes tip: Harlem Queen Harlem Queen looks poised to strike third-up following two eye-catching runs at Rosehill, most notably when beaten two lengths in the Group 2 Emancipation Stakes (1500m) last time out on a Heavy 8. The Nathan Doyle-trained filly was hitting the line strongly, and the step up to 1600m should suit the Brutal filly perfectly. From barrier five, Taylor Marshall will look to hold a midfield position early, and as long as Harlem Queen finds clear racing air, she should prove too good for this lot. Princess Stakes Race 7 – #1 Harlem Queen (5) 3yo Filly | T: Nathan Doyle | J: Taylor Marshall (56.5kg) Brisbane Mile tip: Just Folk Just Folk steps out of Group 1 company after last being seen in the Doncaster Mile on April 6. Despite being well beaten on that day, his win the start prior in the Group 3 Doncaster Mile Prelude (1500m) on a Soft 7 reads really well against a field like this. The eight-year-old grows an extra leg on rain-affected surfaces (24: 8-7-3), and from barrier four he should have the sit on the leaders throughout. Brisbane Mile Race 8 – #1 Just Folk (4) 8yo Gelding | T: Gavin Bedggood | J: Noel Callow (60.5kg) Best Bet at Eagle Farm: Navyonthehighway Navyonthehighway is set to resume off a five-month spell, but she simply should be disposing of her BM85 rivals. The Chris & Corey Munce-trained mare is undefeated through two fresh runs, and there looks to be no reason she cannot improve that record. From barrier two, Tahlia Fenlon will look to find the rail and dictate terms, and with just 58kg on her back, Navyonthehighway should prove too hard to run down on return. Best Bet Race 4 – #3 Navyonthehighway (2) 4yo Mare | T: Chris & Corey Munce | J: Tahlia Fenlon (a2) (60kg) Saturday’s quaddie tips for Eagle Farm races Eagle Farm quadrella selections Saturday, April 26, 2025 2-3-6-7-8-9 1-6 1-2-7-12 2-3-4-13-14 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article

What Quokka Day 2025 Where Ascot Racecourse – 71 Grandstand Rd, Ascot WA 6104 When Saturday, April 26, 2025 First Race 11:19am AWST Visit Dabble The $5 million Quokka will headline the massive 10-race card at Ascot on Saturday afternoon, with the opening race scheduled to jump at 11:19am AWST. The meeting is expected to be held in perfect condition for racing, with fine weather forecast and a Good 4 surface present for the whole day. The rail will be in the +3m position for the entire circuit. Click here to see HorseBetting’s free Quokka betting preview. Karrakatta Plate tip: Yes Queen Although Yes Queen has been beaten in her two starts this preparation, the Dion Luciani-trained filly appears to get the perfect race shape and has drawn the right barrier to go one better in the Group 2 Karrakatta Plate. The daughter of Yes Yes Yes settled at the rear of the field in the Group 3 Gimcrack Stakes and flew home in the final 400m to miss by a nose on the line, going down to Talkanco. Now that she gets back to set weights and will settle closer to the speed from barrier six, Yes Queen can bounce back with a win. Karrakatta Plate Race 7 – #8 Yes Queen (6) 2yo Filly | T: Dion Luciani | J: William Pike (55.5kg) The Joey tip: Saloon Bar Saloon Bar has finished in fourth place on both occasions this campaign over 1000m and 1100m, which is great form for a galloper that will rise to 1200m third-up in The Joey. The Daniel Morton-trained gelding is yet to win over any distance shorter than 1200m, so with him finishing off his races nicely, the extra distance is expected to help this son of Sessions. William Pike will settle him worse than midfield, and with a solid tempo to be set throughout the contest, Saloon Bar can finish over the top of his rivals. The Joey Race 9 – #5 Saloon Bar (7) 5yo Gelding | T: Daniel Morton | J: William Pike (58.5kg) Best Bet at Ascot: Be Bardot Be Bardot bounced back with a dominant victory over 1600m at this track last start, when the Grant & Alana Williams-trained mare was given a perfectly timed ride by William Pike. This daughter of Toronado settled back in the field from her wide gate and slowly made her way to the outside of the field turning for home before letting down with a brilliant turn of foot to claim a one-length win. A smaller field and rise in trip to 1800m should be no worry for this girl, and if she produces a similar finish, the +140 on offer with horse racing bookmakers will look like a steal for Be Bardot. Best Bet Race 3 – #4 Be Bardot (3) 4yo Mare | T: Grant & Alana Williams | J: William Pike (55.5kg) Next Best at Ascot: Deferred Simon Miller and Tim Clark will combine with Deferred who will drop back in grade and trip for her fifth start of the preparation. The daughter of Epaulette has a very good record, with four wins and six placings to her name from 14 starts, and her consistency is what makes her easy to tip in a race that lacks out-and-out winners. If Clark can settle this girl in the one-one position from barrier nine, Deferred’s class will shine through late and she will record another win. Next Best Race 4 – #4 Deferred (9) 4yo Mare | T: Simon Miller | J: Tim Clark (54.5kg) Saturday quaddie tips for Ascot races Ascot quadrella selections Saturday, April 26, 2025 1-7-8 1-6-11-13 2-3-5-13 1-2-5-10 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

What Randwick Races Where Royal Randwick Racecourse – Alison Rd, Randwick NSW 2031 When Saturday, April 26, 2025 First Race 11:30am AEST Visit Dabble Metro racing continues at Royal Randwick on Saturday afternoon, with a bumper 10-part program set for decision. After a stack of feature racing hosted at Randwick of late, the rail moves out +9m between the 1000m to winning post, while the remainder sits out +7m. The track is rated a Soft 6 at the time of acceptances, and with more consistent rainfall forecast leading into the weekend, punters can anticipate a surface nearing the Heavy range. The opening event is scheduled to get underway at 11:30am local time. Best Bet at Randwick: Beskar Beskar couldn’t quite reel in the half-length margin of North England in the Group 3 Kindergarten Stakes (1100m) at this course and distance on April 5, but didn’t lose any admirers in the process. The son of Snitzel got into a bumping duel with King Of Pop in the concluding stages which didn’t help matters, with the pair putting pave to their winning chances. James McDonald gets legged aboard from gate three this time around, and with a shade more luck when getting clear, expect Beskar to be finishing best in the Randwick opener. Best Bet Race 1 – #1 Beskar (3) 2yo Colt | T: Anthony & Sam Freedman | J: James McDonald (59.5kg) Next Best at Randwick: Flying Bandit The Kerry Parker-trained Flying Bandit looks supremely placed in this BM94 contest after a slashing victory at Hawkesbury on April 9. The Trapeze Artist gelding looked to be trapped behind a wall of horses on that occasion, before Jay Ford navigated a passage to claim victory in the final 100m. He gets no weight (52.5kg) on his back heading into this third-up assignment, and provided Flying Bandit can get off the inside at a crucial stage, this guy should have no issues claiming back-to-back wins. Next Best Race 5 – #7 Flying Bandit (1) 4yo Gelding | T: Kerry Parker | J: Jay Ford (52.5kg) Best Value at Randwick: Wootton Verni French import Wootton Verni poises a strong record of five wins and two minor placings across his nine starts before arriving to Australia. He caught the eye in his most recent barrier trial at Warwick Farm in April 17, suggesting the four-year-old has settled in nicely to the Chris Waller barn. He gains the services of James McDonald first-up, and although Wootton Verni may prove better as he steps out in trip, the $8.50 with horse racing bookmakers is too big to ignore as he makes his Australian debut. Best Value Race 8 – #10 Wootton Verni (12) 4yo Horse | T: Chris Waller | J: James McDonald (56.5kg) Saturday quaddie tips for Randwick Randwick quadrella selections April 26, 2025 2-3-8-12-13 1-2-3-5-10-13 1-3-7-10-14-15 1-5-9-12 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

What Moonee Valley Races Where Moonee Valley Racecourse – Gate 2 Feehan Ave, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039 When Saturday, April 26, 2025 First Race 12:20pm AEST Visit Dabble Moonee Valley is the destination for metropolitan racing in Victoria on Saturday afternoon, with a competitive nine-race program set down for decision. With up to 25mm forecast on Friday and the possibility of showers on race day, the track is likely to be in the Soft 7 to Heavy 8 range. The rail will be out 4m for the entire circuit, with the Moonee Valley races set to commence at 12:20pm AEST. Best Bet at Moonee Valley: Extratwo Despite being priced at $6 with horse racing bookmakers, it is hard to ignore the recent form of Extratwo. The five-year-old mare chased home the classy Zloties at Bendigo last time out when peaking on her run over 1400m, and the start prior she finished third in a race that has produced three subsequent winners. She is drawn to follow odds-on favourite Elouyou throughout this 1200m event, and with 58kg on her back following Luke Cartwright’s claim, Extratwo should have no issue in overhauling the leader. Best Bet Race 2 – #2 Extratwo (6) 5yo Mare | T: Ciaron Maher | J: Luke Cartwright (a3) (61kg) Next Best at Moonee Valley: Suparazi Suparazi has not tasted success since November 2023, but the six-year-old gelding looks perfectly placed on a rain-affected surface at The Valley. He boasts two wins and four minor placings from nine runs on wet tracks and has finished second here on two of those occasions, including on a Heavy 10. Jye McNeil should get a nice cart across the field from barrier 10, and as long as the track can aid those running on from deep, Suparazi has the turn of foot to blouse his rivals. Next Best Race 5 – #5 Suparazi (9) 6yo Gelding | T: Ben Brisbourne | J: Jye McNeil (58kg) Best Value at Moonee Valley: Muktamil Muktamil produced a strong finish over 2000m to salute at Ballarat last time out. With a win and four placings from seven starts on wet tracks, he should have no issue in handling conditions third-up. On the back of a genuinely run 2040m, the race should set up perfectly for Muktamil to be finishing the best down the heart of the track at an each-way price with horse betting sites. Best Value Race 8 – #8 Muktamil (7) 5yo Gelding | T: Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young | J: Daniel Moor (57kg) Saturday quaddie tips for Moonee Valley Moonee Valley quadrella selections Saturday, April 26, 2025 4-5-6-7-9-10-11 1-3-6-7-8 3-4-8-9-15 1-8-9-11 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Charm Stone. (Photo by George Sal – Racing Photos) It’s been a while between wins for Charm Stone, but the mare looks ready to make a statement when she resumes in Saturday’s Group 1 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville. The Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr-trained galloper hasn’t been seen since running second in the Magic Millions Cup (RL, 1400m) at the Gold Coast in January. She’s been kept ticking over with two jump-outs in the lead-up to her first trip to Adelaide. Now a rising five-year-old, Charm Stone hasn’t won since claiming the Listed Atlantic Jewel Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley in September last year, before finishing fifth in the Group 1 Golden Rose Stakes (1400m). “She’s going super,” Price said. “It’s been a bit of a goal for Shamus (Mills) to run in the Group 1 and I’m expecting she’ll go well. “She had a knee chip taken out a while after the Golden Rose and had quite a bit of time away from racing, but she’s going good now.” Price is confident the mare is ready to return to her best in what shapes as a competitive edition of the Robert Sangster. Horse racing news View the full article

Australasian Oaks contender, Beautiful Jewel. (Photo: Brett Holburt – Racing Photos) Trainer Travis Doudle is hopeful a long-range plan will pay off on Saturday when Beautiful Jewel lines up in the Group 1 Australasian Oaks (2000m) at Morphettville. The filly, by Highland Reel, has had three runs in South Australia since transferring from Ciaron Maher’s stable, placing twice including a strong second in the Listed Clare Lindop Stakes (1600m). She was unplaced last time out in the Group 3 Auraria Stakes (1800m) on April 12. “She’s been set for this right the way through,” Doudle told Racing.com. “She ran a really good race in the Clare Lindop. Last start didn’t go to plan in the Auraria. “She had a pretty hard run, so we’ve been pretty light on her leading into the Oaks and she’s bounced back really nicely, so we’re hoping for a good show. “After 100 metres, we knew we were in big trouble, we were stuck four or five wide with no cover … she loomed up at the furlong but just ran out of steam.” Horse racing news View the full article

With five Group 1s it’s a big night of racing at Alexandra Park on Friday night. Here are commentator Aaron White’s thoughts on the night, courtesy of trackside.co.nz Race 1 – 5:14pm. $25,000 CLASSIQUE LANDSCAPERS MOBILE PACE 2200m 2 Hooray Henry, 11 Cos I Can, 10 Seaclusion, 8 The Surfer We haven’t seen Hooray Henry on the track for 91 days. He does have the “big” scalp of Copy That on his CV. Drawn to be prominent and can give some cheek at nice odds. Cos I Can is clearly the top-rated horse in the field and will start from the outside of the second row as a consequence. Bold victory April 11 and no reason why he couldn’t double up. Seaclusion makes her return to racing after two sharp workouts. She raced in very good company over back in December. The Surfer has been racing in a good vein of form but does get a sticky draw to use. Big threat with an ounce of luck. Always B Elite has been mixing his form. Solid second two starts ago. Cover in combo bets. Whitey’s $100 Play: $10 Win / $40 Place: 2 Hooray Henry. $10 Quinella: 11 : 2 – 3 – 4 – 8 – 10 Race 2 – 5:41pm. $25,000 LONE STAR ALEXANDRA PARK MOBILE TROT 2200m 11 Magic Dash, 7 Walkinonsunshine, 8 Hillbilly Blues, 5 Castana Magic Dash should’ve taken great improvement from his April 11 resumption. Record from behind the mobile is strong and is a big show despite drawing the second row. Walkinonsunshine gets onto equal marks courtesy of the mobile start. Sure to meet with solid support on latest form. Hillbilly Blues is a real up and comer from the Wallis/Hackett barn. Draw is a little troublesome but certainly has the class to overcome it. Castana does have the game to make his presence felt from a handy enough draw from a mobile beginning. Faith In Manchester beaten under half a length in her last two appearances. Needed for Quinella investments. Whitey’s $100 Play: $30 Win / $70 Place: 11 Magic Dash. Race 3 – 6:09pm. $25,000 GALLAGHER INSURANCE YOUNG GUNS 2YO FILLIES SERIES HEAT 2 MOBILE PACE 1700m 1 The Queens Gambit, 3 Ripples, 9 River, 6 Alecto The Queens Gambit was a little wayward when scoring on this track a fortnight ago. She will be a lot better for that outing and gets the coveted ace draw for this short course race. Ripples crosses the Tasman from the powerful Victorian stable of Emma Stewart and secured the Group 1 Gold Tiara at Bathurst March 29. Rates highly but first look at “The Park” is a concern. River recovered well to run second after doing things wrong in the score-up on debut. Drawn to receive an economical passage tonight. Alecto produced a slick Addington victory 6 April. “The Puppet” Chris Alford jumps into the sulky as well. Angelic Copy is yet to taste defeat in three starts. She’ll need a few things to go her way to continue the picket fence form line. Whitey’s $100 Play: $25 Win: 1. The Queens Gambit. $25 Exacta: 3 : 1 – 6 – 9. Race 4 – 6:40pm. $25,000 BRECKON FARMS YOUNG GUNS 2YO COLTS & GELDINGS SERIES HEAT 2 MOBILE PACE 1700m 4 Fugitive, 6 Andretti, 2 Allamericanplayer, 3 Fitzroy Fugitive won his debut on this track in fine fashion. Gallant run in defeat at Cambridge on the Night of Champions. Andretti took full advantage of a better draw to score well at Cambridge after a game effort in defeat on debut. Allamericanplayer has shown plenty of ability in his career to date. Knockout chance from low gate. Fitzroy debuted nicely at Addington despite having a gear issue. Threat on natural improvement. Rattle My Cage is awkwardly drawn for his debut assignment. Trial form is sound so keep on side for combination tickets. Whitey’s $100 Play: $50 Boxed Exacta: 4 & 6. Race 5 – 7:21pm. (Group 1) $100,000 PASCOES JEWELLERS NORTHERN OAKS MOBILE PACE 2700m 1 Arafura, 4 Beside Me, 5 Stella Rouge, 8 Youretheonethatiwant, 9 Without You Arafura has always looked like an Oaks filly. Racing well and holds a couple of aces from barrier one. “The Iceman” gets the reins too. Beside Me is a long-striding filly that should lap-up all of the 2700m. She’ll start the favourite but there are some here that can test any vulnerability. Stella Rouge has shown she has the all-round game. Don’t underestimate. Youretheonethatiwant boasts a very good Oaks winning lineage. Draw hurts but still worth a few dollars on for a place. Without You brings strong form to her Oaks bid. Owner Jean Feiss has tasted success in this race three times. Whitey’s $100 Play: $50 Win: 1. Arafura. $50 Exacta: 4 : 1: Race 6 – 7:56pm. (Group 1) $100,000 BRECKON FARMS NORTHERN TROTTING DERBY, MOBILE TROT 2700m 14 Meant To Be, 4 Higher Power, 7 Hillbilly, 8 Frazzled Meant To Be returned to racing a fortnight ago with a sensational win. Goes onto the Unruly Draw tonight but has 2700m to negate that. All class. Higher Power did beat his stablemate in last year’s Young Guns Final. Drawn to be in this for a long way. Hillbilly continues to race with merit and back to a mobile start will also assist. Frazzled produced a bold effort when runner-up in first look at “The Park” last week. Worth a nibble at the big odds. Final Approach has done little wrong since his return to racing. Comes into combos calculations. Whitey’s $100 Play: $100 Win: 14. Meant To Be. Race 7 – 8:23pm. (Group 1) $200,000 WOODLANDS STUD NORTHERN PACING DERBY, MOBILE PACE 2700m 1 Marketplace, 9 Captain Sampson, 3 Got The Chocolates, 8 Bettors Anvil Marketplace has a real appetite for big race success and drawn to deliver another. Deserves to be a short-priced favourite. Captain Sampson is drawn ideally behind the favourite. History says being on the markers in the Derby is a good place to be. Got The Chocolates lowered the colours of Marketplace last week. Tougher assignment tonight but keep on side for Quinella bets. Bettors Anvil has any amount of ability but gets a sticky draw. Midnight Miki will require some luck from the 2nd row but could slide into a Top 4 placing. Whitey’s $100 Play: $100 Same Race Multi: 1 Win : 8 and 9 Top 4 Race 8 – 8:48pm. (Group 1) $100,000 H R FISKEN & SONS ANZAC CUP HANDICAP TROT 2200m 12 Oscar Bonavena, 13 Muscle Mountain, 9 Queen Elida, 1 Matty A Oscar Bonavena has placed in the Top 4 three times in this race without winning it. His class will take him close again. Muscle Mountain won this race in splendid fashion last year off a 15m handicap. No reason why the “Big M” can’t claim another Group 1 success. Queen Elida is Australasia’s highest earning female square-gaiter of all-time. She’ll attract her fair share of support. Matty A is back taking on the big guns tonight. Could bolster First4 dividends. Whitey’s $100 Play was $100 Win: 8. Bet N Win but he’s been scratched. Race 9 – 9:21pm. (Group 1) $100,000 DAWSON HARFORD NZ MESSENGER MOBILE PACE 2700m 1 Republican Party, 9 Mo’unga, 6 Chase A Dream, 10 Don’t Stop Dreaming Republican Party, the Auckland Cup winner, is ideally drawn to grab another Group 1 victory in the City of Sails. Excels over the longer trips so looks extremely hard to beat. Mo’unga hasn’t had much go his way since crossing the Cook Strait. Gets his chance tonight to capitalise on an economical run. Chase A Dream backed up his stunning Waikato Flying Mile win with a bold second to Leap To Fame in The Race by betcha. Right back at the top of his game. 10. Don’t Stop Dreaming forget his last start failure. Huge performance to secure the City of Auckland FFA the start prior. We Walk By Faith produced an amazing 1-51.6 Taylor Mile victory a fortnight ago. Tough draw but can’t discount. Whitey’s $100 Play: $100 % Boxed Trifecta: 1 x 6 x 8 x 9 x 10 Race 10 – 9:51pm $20,000 AUCKLAND CO-OP TAXIS 300-3000 MOBILE PACE 2200m 1 Princess Gracy, 7 Crumsy, 3 Tytate, 9 Tight Lines Princess Gracy finally receives a decent draw to use. She’ll be awfully hard to beat. Crumsy is resuming after a recent workout victory. Showed potential through first campaign. Tytate was caught late by a nice type a fortnight ago. Can be right in the thick of things again. Tight Lines is a half-brother to the wonderful pacer The Orange Agent. Debuts from a tricky draw, good place bet. Mick Konstantin boasts some handy trial and workout form. Threat despite drawing the second row for his debut. Whitey’s $100 Play: $100 % Trifecta: 1 – 7 : 1 – 2 – 3 – 7 – 9 – 10 : 1 – 2 – 3 – 7 – 9 – 10 View the full article