Wandering Eyes

With his eighth Group One assignment just around the corner, El Vencedor will head to Ellerslie on Saturday for a final tune-up in the Listed Fulton Family Stakes (1500m). El Vencedor has competed at Group One level in seven of his last nine starts, starting with a second in the Thorndon Mile (1600m) in January of last year. He went on to run fourth in the Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m), then ran his rivals into the ground to score a superb front-running upset win in the Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) in March. The son of Shocking was unplaced in his first three starts at the elite level this season, in the Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m), Livamol Classic (2040m) and TAB Mufhasa Classic (1600m), but turned that form around with an outstanding last-start third behind Snazzytavi and La Crique in the Zabeel Classic (2000m) on Boxing Day. “He ran a huge race in the Zabeel and it took a couple of top-class mares to beat him that day,” trainer Stephen Marsh said. El Vencedor’s next target is the Gr.1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) at Te Rapa on February 8. Marsh kept him up to the mark with a six-length trial win at Matamata on January 14, and the six-year-old gelding will cap his preparation in Saturday’s $100,000 feature at Ellerslie. His three previous starts at the Auckland track have produced wins in the Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes and Gr.3 Balmerino Stakes (2000m), along with that last-start Zabeel Classic placing. “We’ve been very happy with the horse since Boxing Day,” Marsh said. “He was great in that trial. We’re mainly treating this race as a pipe-opener for the Herbie Dyke. But even though it’s a step down in distance and he’s got a big weight (61kg), he’s in such good order and goes so well at Ellerslie that I wouldn’t be surprised if he was very competitive.” El Vencedor will be joined in the Fulton Family Stakes field by promising stablemate Merchant Queen, who recorded the fourth win of her 10-race career with a dominant last-start victory over 1300m at Pukekohe. “We also entered Doddle, but she drew 19 and won’t run,” Marsh said. “Merchant Queen is a promising mare that we’ve got a fair bit of time for. We’re stretching her out over a bit more ground here, which I think she’ll cope with. She’ll jump, put herself on the speed and I don’t think she’s without a chance of picking up some black type.” Marsh’s Ellerslie contingent is rounded out by last-start winner Lovaci in the TAB (1600m) and recent placegetters Miss Rockette in the Barfoot & Thompson (1200m) and Andiamo in the Auckland Co-Op Taxis (1600m). “Lovaci was very good in that win over 1400m last time,” Marsh said. “She’s another one that’s stepping up in trip on Saturday, and she has to do it from a bit of a sticky gate (eight). But she has early speed and can hopefully get herself out of trouble. She can be right in that race if she gets a suitable run. “Miss Rockette’s racing well. That last-start second at Ellerslie was the first time she’s shown that she can be competitive right-handed as well as left-handed, so I was pleased to see that. That was over 1300m and we’re going down to 1200m for this, when I probably would have preferred to stay at 1300m or go up to 1400m. But she’s drawn the inside and certainly has the ability to figure in the finish. “Andiamo ran a lovely race for second on debut and has only taken more confidence and improvement out of that. She’s drawn a little awkwardly in gate 10, but the mile suits and she’s really gone the right way since that first-up win.” Marsh also has Skyman entered for the Gr.3 Denis Wheeler Earthmoving Taranaki Cup (1800m) at New Plymouth on Saturday. Despite winning nine races and having the equal highest rating in the field with 98, the Mukhadram gelding will carry only 55kg. “Set weights and penalties conditions really suit him,” Marsh said. “He’s drawn the outside gate, which isn’t ideal, but as long as he’s able to jump cleanly and take up a reasonable position, he can be very competitive in this sort of grade.” Saturday’s runners will attempt to cap a rewarding week for Marsh, who won the Gr.3 Almanzor Trophy (1200m) at Ellerslie last weekend with Ardalio and went on to secure a number of well-related yearlings at Karaka. His 11 purchases were headed by a $450,000 colt by Dundeel that came from the draft of the sale’s leading vendor Curraghmore. “I’m very happy with what we’ve come away with,” Marsh said. “We bought 10 from Book 1 and one from Book 2. They’re a lovely group of horses, and we have plenty of shares available for anyone who might be interested in getting involved.” View the full article

Flying filly Pivotal Ten will chase an early double in the South Island’s three-year-old stakes race at Gore on Sunday when she lines up in the Listed Liquorland Gore Guineas (1335m). The daughter of Ten Sovereigns and her trainer, jockey Samantha Wynne, have formed a formidable partnership this campaign, winning three on the bounce including the Listed NZB Insurance Stakes (1400m) at Wingatui on Boxing Day. “I was really proud of her, she was stepping up in trip on a heavy track and her class prevailed,” Wynne said. “It was a gusty effort.” “She’s just had her usual work at home in between, she’s gone into the track the odd time for a gallop but she’s pretty cruisy filly. We just keep ticking her over, trying to keep her happy and healthy. “She’s taken each task as it comes, so we’ll see how she goes with the next one on Sunday.” Pivotal Ten was the $2 favourite in the NZB Insurance Stakes and will likely fill a similar quote at Gore, but Wynne is not underestimating the quality of the field, which includes northern raider Sesimbra and a string of last start winners. “It’s a good field so the pace should be on, she’s pretty adaptable and she’s proven that,” Wynne said. “She didn’t mind Timaru which is an on-pace track as well, but, as I said, it’s a tough field so hopefully she can step up. “All going well, she’ll stay down there for the Southland Guineas (Listed, 1400m), then we’ll take it from there.” Wynne will also partner her own Kellanzor in the Hokonui Suzuki / Advance Agriculture (1335m), after a sterling effort for second on debut at Kurow. “It was a good run, she’s very green and still has a lot to learn,” Wynne said. “We’ve stuck some side winkers on her and she’s improving, so she’ll benefit from the day out. “She’ll stay down as well, it’s all great experience for her. “We have a lot of family and friends in the ownership, as well as people from the internet who have been keen to get in on a horse. A lot of them are owning their first racehorse, it’s good to have a bit of fun with them and making owning a racehorse possible.” Progressive mare Sestina headlines Wynne’s quartet of outside rides when the daughter of Lonhro contests the MLT Gore Cup (2000m). Prepared at Ascot Park by Jo-Ann Dalton, Sestina flew home into second behind Quintabelle at Wingatui a fortnight ago, with that runner going on to score again at Riccarton on Saturday. “I’m looking forward to seeing her get over 2000m, she’s won at Gore before, albeit at a different distance, but she’s a lovely mare going forward and Jo does a great job,” Wynne said. “I’m excited to get her over the distance and hopefully we can see her strong to the line, it’s a strong field and we’re expecting some good racing on Sunday.” View the full article

El Vencedor will contest the Listed Fulton Family Stakes (1500m) at Ellerslie on Saturday Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) With his eighth Group One assignment just around the corner, El Vencedor will head to Ellerslie on Saturday for a final tune-up in the Listed Fulton Family Stakes (1500m). El Vencedor has competed at Group One level in seven of his last nine starts, starting with a second in the Thorndon Mile (1600m) in January of last year. He went on to run fourth in the Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m), then ran his rivals into the ground to score a superb front-running upset win in the Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) in March. The son of Shocking was unplaced in his first three starts at the elite level this season, in the Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m), Livamol Classic (2040m) and Mufhasa Classic (1600m), but turned that form around with an outstanding last-start third behind Snazzytavi and La Crique in the Zabeel Classic (2000m) on Boxing Day. “He ran a huge race in the Zabeel and it took a couple of top-class mares to beat him that day,” trainer Stephen Marsh said. El Vencedor’s next target is the Group 1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) at Te Rapa on February 8. Marsh kept him up to the mark with a six-length trial win at Matamata on January 14, and the six-year-old gelding will cap his preparation in Saturday’s $100,000 feature at Ellerslie. His three previous starts at the Auckland track have produced wins in the Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes and Group 3 Balmerino Stakes (2000m), along with that last-start Zabeel Classic placing. “We’ve been very happy with the horse since Boxing Day,” Marsh said. “He was great in that trial. We’re mainly treating this race as a pipe-opener for the Herbie Dyke. But even though it’s a step down in distance and he’s got a big weight (61kg), he’s in such good order and goes so well at Ellerslie that I wouldn’t be surprised if he was very competitive.” Horse racing news View the full article

Willydoit winning at Ellerslie on New Year’s Day. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Shaun and Emma Clotworthy’s hopes for the upcoming Group 1 New Zealand Derby (2400m), Willydoit and Interplanetary, will continue their preparations for the $1.25 million feature in respective events at Ellerslie on Saturday. Willydoit has been the talking point of the Derby since winning his maiden over 1400m in December, a performance backed up with a commanding victory over Group Three winner Tuxedo on New Year’s Day. The son of Tarzino was a New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale purchase, however, he wasn’t entered for the Karaka Millions series, meaning he was missing from the start-list for the $1.5 million three-year-old contest last Saturday. Instead, the Clotworthy’s have identified the TAB 1600 as the logical next step for Willydoit before he takes on the Group 2 Avondale Guineas (2100m) on February 22, and his ultimate target a fortnight later. “He’s had a couple of trips away to gallop away from home in between runs,” Clotworthy said. “He’ll probably be a little bit vulnerable this Saturday with the time between races, but we’ve been conscious that it’s his first preparation and we didn’t want to overdo it in getting him to the Derby. “He wasn’t nominated for the Karaka Millions unfortunately, otherwise we probably would’ve gone there. “His plan now will be Saturday’s race, into the Avondale Guineas and the Derby.” Willydoit currently dominates the Derby market at $2.80 with horse racing betting sites, while Interplanetary is still very much in the mix at $18 following a meritorious run in the Listed Gingernuts Salver (2100m), where he came from last to finish fourth behind Mustang Morgan. “He probably got out of his ground a little bit in the Gingernuts, but he was strong to the line,” Clotworthy said. “He’d had a bit of a space between races so he should strip fitter this Saturday. “We will probably try not to ride him quite as cold as we did in the Gingernuts and see if he can still finish off, but we were happy with his run there and his last couple have been nice. “He’s a horse that will definitely get the Derby distance, there’s no doubt about that, so he’ll probably follow the same path after this Saturday, Avondale into the Derby.” Interplanetary will take his place in the Horizon By SkyCity 2100, with Kevin Stott engaged to ride both runners. Meanwhile, the Byerley Park couple have followed their winning recipe at Karaka this week, purchasing a pair of Tarzino yearlings, as well as combining with MyRacehorse to purchase a Contributer colt for $160,000. After an impressive trial appearance prior to his debut, Willydoit caught the attention of the American-based syndicators, who purchased a 50 percent share in the gelding alongside the Clotworthys and Bryan Black. Their association will continue with lot 286 out of the draft of Mapperley Stud, a close relation to Group One winner Sound Proposition. “The Contributer is a nice walking colt and had lovely balance,” Clotworthy said. “They (MyRacehorse) were looking for a nice mile-2000m horse and we thought he fitted that category. He’s a really nice athlete. “I think Tarzinos are really starting to hit their straps now, he’s had a good last two or three months with successful horses winning good races. “We liked the colt, he had great balance and they are plainer type of horses, but he was a good athlete and reminded us a bit of Willydoit so we bought him. We bought the filly with Bryan Black, we thought she was a nice athlete and were happy to secure her as well.” Horse racing news View the full article

Odds Bookmakers News Field Past Winners Hobart Cup Group Three Betting Guide Date: Sunday, February 9, 2025 Location: Elwick Racecourse – Hobart, Tasmania Prize Money: $250,000 Distance: 2400m The Hobart Cup, a Group 3 race for stayers, is held annually at Elwick, Hobart, over 2400m under handicap conditions. First run in 1875, The Hobart Cup has varied in distance over the years, including being a two-mile race early on. In 2025, the Hobart Cup is worth $250,000. Initially a Principal race, the Hobart Cup became a Group 3 from 1980 to 2003, a Group 2 from 2004 to 2006, and returned to Group 3 status thereafter. Notable winners include Piping Lane, who won in 1972 and went on to win the Melbourne Cup the same year, and Palos Verdes, whose progeny El Segundo won multiple Group 1 races. The 2024 Hobart Cup was won by Aurora’s Symphony, adding it to his two Launceston Cups, ahead of Wyclif and Grand Pierro. 2025 Hobart Cup betting odds 2025 Hobart Cup odds are currently unavailable. How to bet on the Hobart Cup Australians can wager on all metropolitan and country race meetings at respected online bookmakers, licensed and regulated by bodies like the Northern Territory. The Hobart Cup will generally have odds out for it about a week in advance at most bookies but you will struggle to find futures available. It pays to use services like an odds comparison to find the best odds on the Hobart Cup. The following bookmakers are our favoured options to bet on the Hobart Cup.. Neds Code GETON 1 Take It To The Neds Level Neds Only orange bookie! Check Out Neds Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? Set a deposit limit today. “GETON is not a bonus code. Neds does not offer bonus codes in Australia and this referral code does not grant access to offers. Full terms. BlondeBet Signup Code GETON 2 Punters Prefer Blondes BlondeBet Blonde Boosts – Elevate your prices! Join BlondeBet Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. 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Hobart Cup News Tasracing announce prize money reduction for marquee races Australia horse racing news 3 months ago Tasracing has announced that their two major races would have a prize money decrease, but the funding would be used … Read More Aurora’s Symphony claims Group 3 Hobart Cup Australia horse racing news 12 months ago Aurora’s Symphony, trained by Symon Wilde, clinched yet another cup victory in Tasmania by triumphing in yesterday’s Group 3 Hobart … Read More Hobart best bets & quaddie tips | February 12, 2023 Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago What Hobart Cup Day Where Elwick Racecourse – 6 Goodwood Rd, Glenorchy TAS 7010 When Sunday, February 12, 2023 First … Read More Hobart betting tips & quaddie picks | Sunday, February 13 Horse Racing Tips 3 years ago HorseBetting.com.au brings you the betting preview for Hobart Cup Day held at Elwick racecourse on February 13, 2022. See all … Read More Daqiansweet Junior books a ticket to Tasmania Australia horse racing news 3 years ago Following a fourth straight win this campaign, the Phillip Stokes-trained Daqiansweet Junior is being set for a run in the … Read More Hobart Cup Day betting preview, top tips & odds | Sunday 07/02/21 Horse Racing Tips 4 years ago horsebetting.com.au brings you all the top betting previews for Hobart Cup Day at Elwick Racecourse on Sunday, Feburary 07 2021 … Read More 2025 Hobart Cup Final Field HorseBetting.com.au will update this page when the 2025 Hobart Cup final field is released. Previous Hobart Cup Fields 2024 Hobart Cup field No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight 1 Aurora’s Symphony Symon Wilde Jordan Childs 2 59.5kg 2 Alhambra Lad Patrick Payne Jye McNeil 2 56.5kg 3 Swoop Dog John Blacker Ms Sigrid Carr 8 55kg 4 Ashy Boy Glenn Stevenson Craig Newitt 6 54kg 5 Grand Pierro Jason Warren Craig Williams 7 54kg 6 Wyclif Ciaron Maher Ms Carleen Hefel 1 54kg 7 Assaranca Barry Campbell Anthony Darmanin 5 54kg 8 Rising Light Gaetan Delon Codi Jordan 10 54kg 9 Travelling Gigolo John Keys David Pires 4 54kg 10 Metaverse Angela Brakey Erica Byrne Burke 3 54kg 2024 Hobart Cup result https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Hobart-2024-Group-3-Hobart-Cup-11022024-Auroras-Symphony-Symon-Wilde-Jordan-Childs.mp4 1st – Aurora’s Symphony (+750) 2nd – Wyclif (+110) 3rd – Grand Pierro (-166.67) Recent runnings of the Hobart Cup: 2024: Aurora’s Symphony continues Tassie Cup dominance Aurora’s Symphony delivered a dominant performance in the 2024 Hobart Cup, adding the prestigious race to his impressive record, which includes two Launceston Cups. The four-year-old showed his class over the 2400m distance, holding off a strong challenge from Wyclif and Grand Pierro to secure victory. 2023: Military Mission salutes Winona Costin rewarded the faith of trainers Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott with a brilliant ride aboard Military Mission in the 2023 $300,000 Hobart Cup (2400m). Settling three back on the fence early, Costin expertly guided the son of Mastercraftsman off the rail, forcing Blake Shinn’s mount, the favourite Spirit Ridge, to race three-wide. In the straight, Military Mission surged past Spirit Ridge and held off a determined challenge from local contender Travelling Gigolo, winning by 2.25 lengths. 2022: Ho Ho Khan thrashes rivals Former Hong Kong galloper Ho Ho Khan overcame top weight of 59kg to claim a dominant victory in thr Group 3 Hobart Cup. Sent out as the $5.50 second favourite, the Mitch Freedman-trained seven-year-old settled in the midfield under apprentice Tahlia Hope. Turning for home, Ho Ho Khan surged forward and powered away from his rivals, winning by an impressive four lengths. The victory marked the entire’s second consecutive win in Australia, having been trained by Australian expat David Hall in Hong Kong racing before joining Freedman’s stable. Previous winners of the Hobart Cup Hobart Cup Past Winners Year Horse Jockey Trainer 2024 Aurora’s Symphony Jordan Childs Symon Wilde 2023 Military Mission Winona Costin Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott 2022 Ho Ho Khan Tahlia Hope Mitchell Freedman 2021 Double You Tee Jye McNeil Patrick Payne 2020 Toorak Affair Anthony Darmanin Michael Trinder 2019 Eastender Craig Newitt Barry Campbell 2018 Pretty Punk Ben Allen Leon Macdonald & Andrew Gluyas 2017 Count Da Vinci David Pires Scott Brunton 2016 Up Cups David Pires David Brunton 2015 Geegees Blackflash Sigrid Carr John Luttrell 2014 Epingle Craig Williams Michael Kent 2013 Hurdy Gurdy Man Glen Boss Darren Weir 2012 Geegees Blackflash Peter Mertens John Luttrell 2011 Bid Spotter Michael Rodd Graeme Rogerson 2010 Growl Brad Rawiller David Hayes 2009 Gotta Keep Cool Craig Williams Darren Weir 2008 Offenbach Craig Williams Darren Weir 2007 Blutigeroo Damien Oliver Colin Little 2006 True Courser Craig Newitt Darren Weir 2005 Our Dashing Dane Christine Puls Jason Clifford 2004 Zacielo Craig Newitt Peter Moody 2003 Jeune’s Mark Stephen Baster Tony McEvoy 2002 St. Andrews Stephen Maskiell George Blacker 2001 Brorama Star Brendon McCoull Charlie Goggin 2000 Lord Baracus Wayne Davis Gary White Hobart Cup winners pre-2000 Hobart Cup Past Winners Pre 2000 Year Horse 1999 Future Shock 1998 L’Espion 1997 Palos Verdes 1996 Jam City 1995 Courtly Way 1994 Southern States 1993 Frontier Boy 1992 Russian Rogue 1991 Have A Heart 1990 Firetap 1989 Nakagima 1988 Brisque 1987 Cylai 1986 Dark Intruder 1985 Macbyrne 1984 Viscount Geoffrey 1983 Palomine 1982 Powerful Prince 1981 Andrias 1980 Strident King 1979 Kubla Khan 1978 Clean Heels 1977 Brallos 1976 Brallos 1975 Lord Pascoe 1974 Knee High 1973 Sir Trutone 1972 Piping Lane 1971 Trial And Error 1970 Dark Purple 1969 Delarus 1968 Bounteous 1967 Haughty Boy 1966 Sailing Prince 1965 Macdalla 1964 Macdalla 1963 Volterra 1962 Great Singer 1961 Welton 1960 Orden 1959 King’s Thane 1958 Legismars 1957 Buzzie 1956 Seriki 1955 Seriki 1954 Sea Wolf 1953 Sir Legis 1952 Royal Release 1951 Tarcombe 1950 English 1949 The Artist 1948 Evade 1947 Wingfire 1946 Paramente 1945 Gaelane 1944 Thurso Bay 1943 Lord Saltash 1942 Maco Roni 1941 Mercator 1940 El Nene 1939 Maco Roni 1938 Stylish Lady 1937 Royalty 1936 Coolart 1935 Sunbronze 1934 Song Of Solomon 1933 Air Favourite 1932 Billy Barton 1931 Royal Simon 1930 Tarapunga 1929 Prince Viol 1928 Roonsleigh 1927 Roonsleigh 1926 Royal Simon 1925 Pukka 1924 Llanthony 1923 Binbi 1922 Ouverte 1921 Talisman 1920 Nadir Shah / Trusty Blade 1919 Prince Moeraki 1918 Ladino 1917 Sea Pink 1916 Polska 1915 Defence 1914 Delphic 1913 Belove 1912 Flavel 1911 Bolan 1910 Eighteen Carat 1909 Jack Smith 1908 Admirer 1907 Viola 1906 Postulate 1905 Newmarket 1904 Proceeder 1903 Chesterfield 1902 Progredior 1901 Timbrel 1900 Eiridsdale 1899 Flintlock 1898 Rosella 1897 Benedict 1896 Lena 1895 Music 1894 Amadeus 1893 Pauline 1892 Hopetoun 1891 Lapstone 1890 Macquarie 1889 Chaldean 1888 Ballarat 1887 Maori Chief 1886 Duration 1885 Ringwood 1884 King Of The Vale 1883 The Assyrian 1882 The Marchioness 1881 Monarque 1880 Avernus 1879 Lord Harry 1878 Swiveller 1877 Spark 1876 Strop 1875 Ella Recommended! Take It To The Neds Level Home of the Neds Toolbox Check Out Neds 18+ Gamble Responsibly Punters Prefer Blondes It’s a fact, Blondes have more fun Join BlondeBet 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE?. Next Gen Racing Betting Top 4 Betting. Extra Place. Every Race. Join Picklebet 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? It Pays To Play New online bookmaker Check Out PlayUp 18+ Gamble Responsibly Say Hey to the social bet! You Better Believe It Join Dabble 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE?. Full terms. View the full article

The California Authority of Racing Fairs announced Jan. 30 it will cease all Golden State Racing stabling and training operations at the Alameda County Fairgrounds upon completion of its vanning and stabling contract, scheduled to conclude March 25.View the full article

Following the announcement that the California Authority of Racing Fairs (CARF) will not apply for 2025 race dates and that CARF and Alameda County Fair have decided to end Pleasanton stabling Mar. 25, stakeholders in southern California will now intensify efforts to develop a single circuit to create a positive platform for Thoroughbred racing at Santa Anita, Del Mar and Los Alamitos, the Southern California Stabling and Vanning Committee said in a press release late on Thursday. The new version of California Thoroughbred racing will continue to offer suitable racing opportunities specifically created last month to accommodate horses previously based in northern California as of Dec. 28, 2024. This effort includes higher purse levels of approximately 20 percent for every class level from the newly instituted $5,000 claiming races to top end allowance races. With the end of stabling in the north, these opportunities will become part of the new 2025 structure at Santa Anita, Del Mar and Los Alamitos. Northern California is making an immediate impact on racing at Santa Anita. Mr. & Mrs. Larry D. Williams have won five races from 10 starts through Jan. 26, currently second in the owner standings at Santa Anita, while trainer Tim McCanna is off to an impressive start during the first month of the Santa Anita trainer standings. Horsemen and horsewomen with any of the 478 horses still stabled at Pleasanton that wish to relocate to southern California are encouraged to contact the Santa Anita Racing Office for stabling arrangements at one of the three available locations–Los Alamitos, San Luis Rey and Santa Anita. Transportation allowances are also available. California's new single circuit structure will help ensure that the Thoroughbred racing and breeding industry continues to provide the state with over $2.5 billion of positive annual economic impact and more than 24,000 jobs. Additionally, this new path forward has already delivered purse increases and additional racing opportunities. Further purse increases will be announced for shortly for the southern California racetracks. San Mateo County fair manager Dana Stoehr, the newly minted CARF chairperson, said that “resulting financial positions and losses of the GSR meet” and other regulatory factors led to the decision to suspend stabling on March 25 at Pleasanton. “Others in the industry may have resources that we don't. And we did not want to appear that we did [have those resources], or that there was some Band-Aid, or that there was something that didn't exist,” said Stoehr, explaining the decision. “Most of us fairground managers in support of racing, we're also the stewards of public land. And we step up during emergencies and at the drop of a hat or a phone call or an email,” Stoehr added. “We're all quasi-governmental if not directly governmental. And we have a higher standard of care for our communities that we need to adhere to. That's the fairground managers' standard of ethics. And it is with those ethics in mind that we need to be absolutely transparent about what we can and can't do. We know it affects those that are most vulnerable in situations like this,” she added. The post Pleasanton To End Stabling Mar. 25 As New Cal Circuit Takes Shape With Enhanced Purses appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Argentine Champion 3-year-old filly and Grade I winner Didia (Arg) (Orpen-Delambre (Brz), by Rainbow Corner {GB}) has been retired to Resolute Farm, according to the operation's John Stewart Thursday. Campaigned by Merriebelle Stable and Resolute, the 7-year-old will be bred to Darley's Nyquist. A two-time Group 1 winner in her native Argentina at two, she won her initial four starts after joining Ignacio Correas IV in the U.S., including the 2023 GIII Modesty Stakes at Churchill Downs. Runner-up in the GI New York, she regained the winning thread in the GII Rodeo Drive at Santa Anita. After rounding out her 4-year-old campaign with a 10th in the GI Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare, she returned in her 5-year-old debut to score in the GI Pegasus World Cup Filly and Mare Turf Invitational at Gulfstream. Third in Keeneland's GI Jenny Wiley Stakes, the bay took the New York before finishing fourth in both the GI Diana and GII John. C Mabee Stakes at Del Mar in September. In the final start of her career, she finished a close-up third behind subsequent champion turf mare, Moira. In late December, Correas had stated that the Argentine mare would be retired, however, Stewart followed up to say that she would not be immediately retired. Didia retires with 11 career victories from 18 starts and earnings of $1,754,511. Click here for a Didia video posted by Resolute. Didia is retired. Looking forward to her career on the farm. I am happy I can go see her any day I want. @resracingky first grade 1 winner. — Jstewartrr (@jstewartrr) January 31, 2025 The post GISW Didia Retired to Resolute appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

In-form mare About Time is giving every indication she can master the ultimate distance of her autumn target. The daughter of American Pharoah has been set for the Gr.2 Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup (3200m) on March 8 and will bid to complete a hat-trick of wins along the way when she steps out at Ellerslie on Saturday. Trained by Lance Noble for breeders Cambridge Stud, the four-year-old will run in the Victoria Racing Club Handicap (2200m) with regular partner Warren Kennedy in the saddle. They have successfully combined on the course to win prior to Christmas before proving superior on Boxing Day in the Dunstan Horsefeeds Stayers’ Championship Final (2400m). “She’s been terrific this prep and she’s ready, she’s drawn wide but it’s not a super strong field and she should be pretty competitive again,” Noble said. “I think she’ll run the two miles of the Cup, the way she cleared out with the weight (58kg) to win the Dunstan Stayers was encouraging. “She hit the line strongly and there was a bit of a gap back to third. The next logical step is the Avondale Cup (Gr.3, 2400m) and then into the Auckland Cup.” Stablemates Little Stirrer and Terra Mitica will also be in action at Ellerslie on Saturday in the Barfoot & Thompson (1200m) and Listed Fulton Family Stakes (1500m) respectively with Kennedy to ride the pair. Written Tycoon filly Little Stirrer will be making a fresh start after an unplaced effort in late August in her first appearance for Noble. “She came back from Victoria after winning a two-year-old race for the Hayes boys, but just didn’t look right in the spring,” he said. “Some three-year-old fillies just don’t do well and her coat didn’t look great, we gave her a run and it was a bit average. “We put her out and she’s come back a lot stronger, she’s not overly big so is well-named and I was really happy with her trial last week.” Meanwhile, the Fulton Family Stakes fits in well with Terra Mitica’s main aim, the Listed Matamata Veterinary Services Kaimai Stakes (2000m) at Matamata on February 15. “We have tried her beyond 2000m and I don’t think she’s a genuine 2200 or 2400m horse,” Noble said. “We’ve chosen to target the Kaimai on Matamata Breeders’ Stakes Day and this is an ideal lead-up race for her timing-wise. “It’s a bit short of her best and has come up quite a strong race, so if she managed to sneak a place it would be a little bit more black type for her.” Terra Mitica has won four races and finished third in the spring in the Gr.3 Bonecrusher Stakes (2000m) in blinkers and will have the headgear back on for Saturday. View the full article

Shaun and Emma Clotworthy’s hopes for the upcoming Gr.1 Trackside New Zealand Derby (2400m), Willydoit and Interplanetary, will continue their preparations for the $1.25 million feature in respective events at Ellerslie on Saturday. Willydoit has been the talking point of the Derby since winning his maiden over 1400m in December, a performance backed up with a commanding victory over Group Three winner Tuxedo on New Year’s Day. The son of Tarzino was a New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale purchase, however, he wasn’t entered for the Karaka Millions series, meaning he was missing from the start-list for the $1.5 million three-year-old contest last Saturday. Instead, the Clotworthy’s have identified the TAB 1600 as the logical next step for Willydoit before he takes on the Gr.2 Eagle Technology Avondale Guineas (2100m) on February 22, and his ultimate target a fortnight later. “He’s had a couple of trips away to gallop away from home in between runs,” Clotworthy said. “He’ll probably be a little bit vulnerable this Saturday with the time between races, but we’ve been conscious that it’s his first preparation and we didn’t want to overdo it in getting him to the Derby. “He wasn’t nominated for the Karaka Millions unfortunately, otherwise we probably would’ve gone there. “His plan now will be Saturday’s race, into the Avondale Guineas and the Derby.” Willydoit currently dominates the Derby market at $2.80, while Interplanetary is still very much in the mix at $18 following a meritorious run in the Listed Gingernuts Salver (2100m), where he came from last to finish fourth behind Mustang Morgan. “He probably got out of his ground a little bit in the Gingernuts, but he was strong to the line,” Clotworthy said. “He’d had a bit of a space between races so he should strip fitter this Saturday. “We will probably try not to ride him quite as cold as we did in the Gingernuts and see if he can still finish off, but we were happy with his run there and his last couple have been nice. “He’s a horse that will definitely get the Derby distance, there’s no doubt about that, so he’ll probably follow the same path after this Saturday, Avondale into the Derby.” Interplanetary will take his place in the Horizon By SkyCity 2100, with Kevin Stott engaged to ride both runners. Meanwhile, the Byerley Park couple have followed their winning recipe at Karaka this week, purchasing a pair of Tarzino yearlings, as well as combining with MyRacehorse to purchase a Contributer colt for $160,000. After an impressive trial appearance prior to his debut, Willydoit caught the attention of the American-based syndicators, who purchased a 50 percent share in the gelding alongside the Clotworthys and Bryan Black. Their association will continue with lot 286 out of the draft of Mapperley Stud, a close relation to Group One winner Sound Proposition. “The Contributer is a nice walking colt and had lovely balance,” Clotworthy said. “They (MyRacehorse) were looking for a nice mile-2000m horse and we thought he fitted that category. He’s a really nice athlete. “I think Tarzinos are really starting to hit their straps now, he’s had a good last two or three months with successful horses winning good races. “We liked the colt, he had great balance and they are plainer type of horses, but he was a good athlete and reminded us a bit of Willydoit so we bought him. We bought the filly with Bryan Black, we thought she was a nice athlete and were happy to secure her as well.” View the full article

Racing Minister, Winston Peters has announced the Government is preparing public consultation on GST policy proposals which would make the New Zealand racing industry more competitive. “The racing industry makes an important economic contribution. New Zealand thoroughbreds are in demand overseas as racehorses and for breeding. The domestic thoroughbred industry put nearly a billion dollars into the economy in 2022/23,” Mr Peters says. Bloodstock breeders often join together in a joint venture when investing in a thoroughbred, helping with the initial purchase price and ongoing costs. Mr Peters says common practice amongst joint ventures including bloodstock breeders is to individually claim GST deductions in their own GST returns. Inland Revenue has however recently concluded that the current rules do not allow this. “To comply with this, breeders would incur the compliance cost of registering and filing GST returns for each horse separately every month or every two months,” Peters said. “The Government is proposing to take a pragmatic approach and avoid imposing compliance costs by allowing current practice. “If this proposal proceeds, it will place the New Zealand industry on a more equal footing with the Australian industry.” The consultation document is expected to be published in the coming months on taxpolicy.ird.govt.nz. Mr Peters also congratulated New Zealand Bloodstock on the just-completed 99th National Yearling Sales at Karaka, with combined sales of $86m. A highlight was the record $2.4m paid for a sibling by Savabeel to star mare Orchestral – the highest price ever paid for a filly sold in New Zealand. “The sales show the New Zealand bloodstock industry is in good health and the industry presents major potential for growth both domestically and through international interest,” Peters said. View the full article

Multiple graded stakes winner Buchu has been retired and will begin her new journey as a broodmare for Rigney Racing.View the full article

Odds Bookmakers News Field Past Winners Blue Diamond Prelude (F) Group Two Betting Guide Date: Saturday, February 8, 2025 Location: Caulfield Racecourse – Melbourne, Victoria Prize Money: $350,000 Distance: 1100m The Blue Diamond Prelude (Fillies) is a Group 2 race for two-year-old fillies, conducted by the Melbourne Racing Club at Caulfield Racecourse. First run in 1982 and won by Olive Branch, The Blue Diamond Prelude is contested over 1100m under set weight conditions. In 2025 it carries a prize pool of $300,000. Originally a Listed race, The Blue Diamond Prelude for Fillies was elevated to Group 3 in 1986 and then to Group 2 status in 2015. Several fillies have achieved the Blue Diamond Prelude (Fillies)/Blue Diamond double, including Love A Show, Courtza, Lady Jakeo, Alinghi, Samaready, Earthquake, Catchy, Lyre and Hayasugi. Courtza and Merlene also secured the Blue Diamond Prelude (Fillies)/Golden Slipper double. The 2024 edition of the Blue Diamond Prelude (F) was won by Hayasugi, who triumphed over Kuroyanagi and Matisse. 2025 Blue Diamond Prelude (F) betting odds Betting odds for the 2025 Blue Diamond Prelude (F) are currently unavailable. HorseBetting will update the Blue Diamond Prelude (F) odds once released. How to bet on the Blue Diamond Prelude (F) All Australian online bookmakers featuring horse racing will have Caulfield races available to bet on. This means the Blue Diamond Prelude (F) can be wagered upon as soon as acceptances are in. Like most Group 2 races, the Blue Diamond Prelude (F) does not have an all-in or futures market weeks out from the race. The top Blue Diamond Prelude betting sites are accessible via several different means, including via horse racing betting apps. Neds Code GETON 1 Take It To The Neds Level Neds Only orange bookie! Check Out Neds Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? Set a deposit limit today. “GETON is not a bonus code. 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Ladbrokes does not offer bonus codes in Australia and this referral code does not grant access to offers. Full terms. Blue Diamond Prelude (F) News The Follow Files: Freedman filly ready to fire in Blue Diamond Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago In this week’s Follow Files, we have found runners from Caulfield and Randwick last Saturday that are worth keeping an … Read More Hayasugi claims victory in Group 2 Blue Diamond Prelude Australia horse racing news 12 months ago Hayasugi will attempt to become the first filly since Midnight Fever in 1987 to win the Fillies Preview and Prelude … Read More Caulfield full racing preview & best odds | Saturday, February 10 Horse Racing Tips 12 months ago Group 1 racing returns to Caulfield on Saturday as the CF Orr Stakes headlines a massive 10-race meeting. Check out … Read More Exploring leads all the way in Group 2 Blue Diamond Prelude Australia horse racing news 2 years ago Craig Williams and James Cummings have combined with Exploring to take out the fillies division of the Blue Diamond Prelude … Read More Sandown full racing tips & quaddie tips | Saturday, February 11 Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago The C.F Orr Stakes headlines the action out of Sandown on Saturday, and HorseBetting’s James Herbert presents his race-by-race preview … Read More Bester hoping De Sonic goes Boom again in Blue Diamond Prelude Australia horse racing news 2 years ago De Sonic Boom was an impressive winner of the Blue Diamond Preview (Fillies), but part-owner James Bester has revealed she … Read More 2025 Blue Diamond Prelude (F) Final Field HorseBetting will update this page when the 2025 Blue Diamond Prelude (F) final field is released. Previous Blue Diamond Prelude (F) Fields 2024 Blue Diamond Prelude (F) field No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight 1 Bold Bastille Ben, Will & JD Hayes Mark Zahra 10 56kg 2 Hayasugi Clinton McDonald Ms Jamie Kah 13 56kg 3 Froebel Star Ciaron Maher Ethan Brown 6 56kg 4 Tobeornottobe Robbie Griffiths & Mathew de Kock Jye McNeil 14 56kg 5 Flattered Patrick Payne Jake Noonan 4 56kg 6 Kuroyanagi Will Clarken & Niki O’Shea Blake Shinn 7 56kg 7 In Her Eyes Leon & Troy Corstens Michael Dee 17 56kg 8 Matisse Anthony & Sam Freedman Damian Lane 16 56kg 9 Altermatum Tony & Calvin McEvoy Harry Coffey 15 56kg 10 Dancer For Money Danny O’Brien Jordan Childs 9 56kg 11 Shehungthemoon Anthony & Sam Freedman Luke Currie 12 56kg 12 Cool Star Tetyana Furdetska Daniel Stackhouse 8 56kg 13 Juviance Gavin Bedggood John Allen 3 56kg 14 Celerity James Cummings Craig Williams 5 56kg 15 Loafer Archie Alexander Declan Bates 1 56kg 16 Supercilious Leon & Troy Corstens Jamie Mott 11 56kg 17 Broadhurst Liam Howley Ms Celine Gaudray (a) 2 56kg 2024 Blue Diamond Prelude (F) result https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Caulfield-2024-Group-2-Blue-Diamond-Prelude-10022024-Hayasugi-Clinton-McDonald-Jamie-Kah.mp4 1st – Hayasugi (+800) 2nd – Kuroyanagi (-125) 3rd – Matisse (+260) Recent runnings of the Blue Diamond Prelude (F): 2024: Hayasugi completes Preview/Prelude double Hayasugi would embark on a rare and impressive journey as she aims for victory in Melbourne’s premier juvenile race at Caulfield, the Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes (1200m). Trained by Clinton McDonald, the two-year-old secured victories in the Blue Diamond Preview and the Blue Diamond Prelude. Attempting to achieve a feat not accomplished by a filly since Midnight Fever in 1987, Hayasugi faces a significant challeng The last colt to win the treble was Sepoy in 2011, following in the footsteps of Bel Esprit in 2002 and Rancher 20 years prior. With jockey Jamie Kah aboard, Hayasugi ($8.50) clinched victory by a narrow margin, defeating South Australian contender Kuroyanagi ($5.50) and Matisse ($17.00) in third place. 2023: Exploring proves too hard to run down Craig Williams and James Cummings combined to give Godolphin both of the Blue Diamond Preludes, with Exploring causing a minor boilover in the Fillies division. With the aid of a great front running ride from Williams, the two-year-old daughter of Brazen Beau ran out a strong 1100m, recording her second win from three career starts after finishing fourth in the Blue Diamond Preview last start. Jumping at $14 with online bookmakers, the Godolphin-trained runner prove too strong for her rivals, leading from start to finish to stake her claim as one of the favoured runners for the Blue Diamond Stakes in two weeks’ time. The race-favourite and massive market mover in the Blue Diamond Stakes futures market, Charm Stone, was very disappointing with the Mick Price & Michael Kent Jnr-trained filly only managing a sixth-place finish. 2022: Revolutionary Miss launches late Revolutionary Miss delivered a stunning performance to claim victory in the Blue Diamond Prelude (Fillies) (1100m) at Caulfield. Settling midfield early, the talented filly produced a powerful finishing burst in the straight to overtake her rivals and secure the win. Her impressive turn of foot highlighted her potential as a leading contender for the upcoming Blue Diamond Stakes. The win added to the growing reputation of the Peter and Paul Snowden-trained filly. Previous winners of the Blue Diamond Prelude (F) Blue Diamond Prelude (F) Past Winners Year Horse Jockey Trainer 2024 Hayasugi Jamie Kah Clinton McDonald 2023 Exploring Craig Williams James Cummings 2022 Revolutionary Miss Michael Dee Peter & Paul Snowden 2021 Arcaded Damian Lane James Cummings 2020 Letzbeglam Brett Prebble Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young 2019 Lyre Damian Lane Anthony Freedman 2018 Enbihaar Stephen Baster David & Ben Hayes & T Dabernig 2017 Catchy Craig Williams David & Ben Hayes & T Dabernig 2016 Samara Dancer Dom Tourneur Phillip Stokes 2015 Fontiton Mark Zahra Robert Smerdon 2014 Earthquake Damian Browne Peter Snowden 2013 Guelph Kerrin McEvoy Peter Snowden 2012 Samaready Craig Newitt Mick Price 2011 One Last Dance Luke Nolen Peter Moody 2010 Psychologist Mark Zahra Tony Vasil 2009 Rostova Steven King Steve Richards 2008 Believe’n’succeed Stephen Baster Mark Kavanagh 2007 Camarilla Blake Shinn John Hawkes 2006 Nediym’s Glow Noel Callow Mathew Ellerton 2005 Doubting Danny Nikolic Mick Price 2004 Alinghi Damien Oliver Lee Freedman 2003 Halibery Damien Oliver Mick Price 2002 Brief Embrace Kerrin McEvoy Peter Moody 2001 Faiza Brett Prebble John Hawkes 2000 Mannington Jason Patton Russell Cameron Blue Diamond Prelude (F) winners pre-2000 Blue Diamond Prelude (F) Past Winners Pre 2000 Year Horse 1999 Card Queen 1998 Piccadilly Circus 1997 Rose Of Danehill 1996 Merlene 1995 Miamore 1994 My Flashing Star 1993 Lady Jakeo 1992 Freedom Fields 1991 Raise A Rhythm 1990 Zedagal 1989 Courtza 1988 Startling Lass 1987 Midnight Fever 1986 Lockley’s Daughter 1985 Sudden 1984 Rass Dancer 1983 Love A Show 1982 Formal Invitation Recommended! Take It To The Neds Level Home of the Neds Toolbox Check Out Neds 18+ Gamble Responsibly Punters Prefer Blondes It’s a fact, Blondes have more fun Join BlondeBet 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE?. Next Gen Racing Betting Top 4 Betting. Extra Place. Every Race. Join Picklebet 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? It Pays To Play New online bookmaker Check Out PlayUp 18+ Gamble Responsibly Say Hey to the social bet! You Better Believe It Join Dabble 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE?. Full terms. View the full article

The royal blue silks of Godolphin have been carried to victory a record 11 times in the G3 Dubai Millennium Stakes sponsored by Emaar, and on Friday, it is the task of First Conquest (GB) (Teofilo {Ire}) to make it a dozen such wins. A debut winner at Newmarket last April, the bay is on a two-race winning streak, having claimed a handicap there in July, before making his 4-year-old bow a winning one in an 1800-metre turf handicap over this course on Jan. 10. “First Conquest won impressively on his first start in Dubai and has come forward for the run,” said Appleby. “He is stepping into Pattern company and it will be interesting to see how he copes with the rise in class. “We are dipping our toe at this level to see where his future lies and will hopefully be a lot wiser afterwards.” Among his rivals is Asaassi (Fr) (Sea The Moon {Ger}), who is continuing to rise in the ranks after a career-threatening injury. He landed a course-and-distance handicap four weeks back. “When he came over [from the UK] he had a mystery slice through a tendon and the vets didn't think he'd make it,” said trainer Michael Costa. “We took last season to just do some foundation work with him and this season he's just continued to improve. “He's really strengthened up and we're really happy with him. He's been quite on the bridle [keen] in his runs so he's still learning to relax and breathe a bit but he's a very happy horse at the moment. He's built up a good association with Ray Dawson, too.” Filly Vs. Males In Dubai Sprint Group winner Romantic Style (Ire) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}) steps up in the Listed Dubai Sprint sponsored by Emaar over 1200 metres of Meydan grass. The filly, second in the G2 Cape Verdi over a mile on Jan. 17, faces 10 males, among them local handicap hero Echo Point (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}), who won on the same day as the Cape Verdi. “The Cape Verdi was a messy race, and a mile has always been a slight question mark for Romantic Style in terms of whether she truly sees the trip out,” said trainer Appleby. “She has strengthened over the winter and dropping back to sprinting could be her gig, looking at her pedigree. She goes into this in great shape, and it will open a few doors if she handles the drop in distance.” The inaugural Mawj Stakes sponsored by Emaar attracted a field of 10, with Spanish filly Octans (Spa) (The Grey Gatsby {Ire}) a headliner based on her four-for-six record at La Zarzuela. “She is a lovely filly, she's done everything right from the start,” said trainer Guillermo Arizkorreta, who was featured earlier this year in the TDN. “She was the best 2-year-old filly in Spain, but she's hard to assess against other fillies. I suppose Godolphin's [Mountain Breeze (Ire) (Lope De Vega {Ire})] and Barberot's [Lhakpa (Ire) (Siyouni {Fr})] will be hard to beat. The Jumeirah Guineas Trial sponsored by Emaar sees Godolphin's GI Summer Stakes second Al Qudra (Ire) (No Nay never) return. The post Godolphin Aiming For A 12th Victory In Dubai Millennium appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Dissatisfied with the direction of racing in Florida and its future amid track operator 1/ST Racing's desire to decouple racing from its casino at Gulfstream Park, owner Carlo Vaccarezza has formed a horsemen's group.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 Saturday running at Kyoto Racecourse. The horses of note entered for Sunday will appear in Saturday's TDN: Saturday, February 1, 2025 3rd-KYO, ¥10,600,000 ($69k), Maiden, 3yo, 1400m MAGNA DOMUS (JPN) (c, 3, American Pharoah–Competitionofideas, by Speightstown) becomes the first starter for his dam, winner of the 2018 GI American Oaks and later sold to Shadai Farm for $1.3 million at the 2020 Fasig-Tipton November Sale before being bred and exported. Magna Domus shares the Grade III-winning second dam Devil By Design (Medaglia d'Oro) with John Gunther's Sea To Sky (Ire) (Without Parole {GB}), third in a heavy-ground renewal of the Listed Highclere Thoroughbred Racing Stakes at Newbury last October. O-Shadai Race Horse Co Ltd; B-Shadai Farm; T-Yoshito Yahagi 5th-KYO, ¥11,850,000 ($77k), Newcomers, 3yo, 1400m JUSTIN TRUENO (c, 3, Into Mischief) is the first foal out of Pink Sands (Tapit), winner in succession of the GIII Rampart Stakes in late 2019 and the GII Inside Information Stakes the following month. Retired at the end of that season, the $625,000 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga yearling visited this sire and was offered at the 2021 Keeneland November Sale, where her $2.3-million pricetag with this colt in utero was the second-dearest transaction of the auction. Pink Sands is a daughter of GISW Her Smile, herself a $1.5-million KEENOV purchase by KatieRich Farms and the dam of Timing Now (Tapit), who accumulated better than $500,000 while racing in Japan. O-Masahiro Miki; B-EM Planning LLC (KY); T-Haruki Sugiyama LADY NINJA (JPN) (c, 3, Nyquist–Lady Ninja, by Majesticperfection), whose dam won the GIII L.A. Woman Stakes in 2019, was acquired in utero for $360,000 at KEENOV in 2021. The March foal, sold on for just over $45,000 at the 2023 Hokkaido Summer Yearling Sale, is out of a half-sister to eight additional winners, including the stakes-placed Underdressed (Keen Ice). O-Katsutoshi Nagayama; B-Chiba Stud; T-Yoshiaki Sugiyama The post Into Mischief Colt From $2.3M Pink Sands Gets Going at Kyoto appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

After securing a narrow, front-running victory in the Mucho Macho Man Stakes Jan. 4, 'TDN Rising Star' Guns Loaded (Gun Runner) will be the one to catch while making his two-turn debut in Saturday's GIII Holy Bull Stakes at Gulfstream Park. The 1 1/16-mile Holy Bull attracted a talented field of seven, including 9-5 morning-line favorite 'Rising Star' Ferocious (Flatter), a last-out fifth with trouble in the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile; and the Brad Cox-trained Tappan Street (Into Mischief), a promising debut winner going seven furlongs at Gulfstream Dec. 28. The Holy Bull offers 42 (20-10-6-4-2) qualifying points on the road to the GI Kentucky Derby. “It's a strong field and every horse is still improving,” trainer Jose D'Angelo said. “You can see it in the Mucho Macho Man that he's still a little green. Our plan is to try to make the Derby. We hope that he continues to learn and improve and that we have him the right way on the first Saturday in May.” Guns Loaded, an $800,000 Keeneland September Yearling purchase campaigned in partnership by Morplay Racing, Joey Platts and Lady Sheila Stable, will be piloted by leading rider Irad Ortiz, Jr. for the first time in the Holy Bull. Luis Saez, aboard Guns Loaded in all three of his previous starts, has opted for the aforementioned Tappan Street. “(Saez) decided to ride the Brad Cox horse,” D'Angelo said. “He told me that he gave the call immediately after he won the maiden. That's OK, we have Irad; he worked him and really liked the horse. I think we're in good shape for this race.” Guns Loaded shot out to the front from his rail draw and had things his own way through fractions of :24.54 and :47.61 in the one-turn mile Mucho Macho Man. He kicked for home in complete command, and, after showing some immaturity down the lane, dug down gamely to hold off Treaty of Rome (Uncle Mo) by a neck. He made two previous attempts, finishing a respectable second on debut after stumbling at the start going seven furlongs at Saratoga Aug. 31, then earned his 'Rising Star' badge with a powerful, wire-to-wire victory at second asking while cutting back to six furlongs at Churchill Downs Nov. 16. The latter performance was good for a career-best 88 Beyer Speed Figure. One of 16 'Rising Stars' for leading young sire and GI Breeders' Cup Classic Winner Gun Runner, Guns Loaded is out of the MGSP Bernardini mare Sky My Sky, who was a two-time winner going 1 1/16 miles on grass. Bred in Kentucky by John Oxley, Guns Loaded hails from the extended female family of MG1SWs Nebraska Tornado (Storm Cat) and Westover (GB) (Frankel {GB}). “I always thought that he was a two-turn horse, that's why I ran him first time out going seven furlongs,” D'Angelo said. “When he showed me his speed, I cut him to six (furlongs) and he won impressively. After that we went to the one-mile Mucho Macho Man and he had a good gallop out–the other horse never passed him. The way that he trains says he can do it. We are very positive and optimistic for Saturday.” Bentornato (Valiant Minister), meanwhile, a fantastic second at 28-1 in the GI Breeders' Cup Sprint at Del Mar Nov. 2, will be given some time off, per D'Angelo. Last year's GII Gallant Bob Stakes winner and G3 Saudi Derby third-place finisher was scratched from the GI Malibu Stakes at Santa Anita Dec. 26 due to a foot abscess. “He had a strong campaign last year,” D'Angelo said. “We did a PET scan and he had some bone bruising, so we decided to give him time off. He deserves a rest. We're gonna give him the right amount of time and we'll point for the Breeders' Cup Sprint. He's doing good–he's still at the barn.” #1 GUNS LOADED ($4.60) held on to win the $165,000 Mucho Macho Man Stakes at @GulfstreamPark. The 3YO Gun Runner (@Three_Chimneys) colt was ridden by @luissaezpty for @JFDAngelo. The Ginger Brew Stakes is up next. Tune in to coverage presented by @ClaiborneFarm on @FanDuelTV! pic.twitter.com/bUHCSbBd2r — FanDuel Racing (@FanDuel_Racing) January 4, 2025 The post ‘Our Plan is to Try to Make the Derby’ – Guns Loaded Gets Two-Turn Test in Holy Bull appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Racing last year for the first time since a pair of 2017 hurricanes decimated St. Thomas's Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack in the U.S. Virgin Islands, at least six Thoroughbreds were euthanized over the course of three carded days at the track. Another horse suffered a breakdown during a workout, bringing the total to seven. Those are just some of several major issues plaguing the St. Thomas/St. John Horse Racing Commission (STT/STJ HRC), who is charged with the responsibility of regulating racing on the island. Compounding horses dying on the track, racing in St. Thomas was being conducted while anti-doping rules were suspended by the island's Legislature because of the storms, unregistered Thoroughbreds were allowed to compete, the Clinton Phipps track surface was not cleared by experts and there were at least two horses who ran Dec. 22 that were banned at Gulfstream Park after they tested positive for illegal substances. When the TDN reached out to the STT/STJ HRC for an explanation, Vice-Chairman Dr. Laura Palminteri, VMD said the Commission was alarmed, but she was quick to place the blame on the Legislature who suspended the anti-doping laws. “The number of breakdowns in the 2024 season was unacceptable and concerning to the Commission,” said Dr. Palminteri. “At this time, the track is being evaluated and stateside experts are being consulted prior to any further racing. The Commission will be requesting the Legislature to reinstate anti-doping laws and no racing is scheduled for now. The search process is ongoing for a permanent racetrack promoter and we are hopeful for a successful 2025.” Dr. Laura Palmiteri, DVM | courtesy of the VI Legislative Assembly Dr. Palminteri said that during the construction phase at the track there was increasing public pressure to begin horse racing again, even though the drug testing facilities were not complete. Beginning May 3 of last year, racing at the government-owned Clinton Phipps facility began during what are called the 'Carnival Races.' With the track 85% complete by Southland Gaming Virgin Islands who financed the structures, the 11-year-old Thulean (Giant's Causeway) broke down May 5, according to sources close to the situation who did not wish to be named for fear of retribution. The former Ron Potts trainee was last seen running stateside as the runner-up in a claiming race at Tampa Bay Mar. 24, 2019. During a routine workout in October, 5-year-old Axxerator (Exaggerator) was euthanized. The gelding reportedly raced at the claiming level under trainer Jason Lisboa until Mar. 15 at Camarero Race Track in Puerto Rico. On a race day Nov. 3, Call Bros (Sky Mesa) broke down at the Clinton Phipps track. According to Equibase, the 7-year-old Florida-bred was last reported as being trained by Carlos Sostre in Puerto Rico in mid-April. The Clinton Phipps track hosted a seven-race card Dec. 22, which they called a “Festive Finish at the state-of-the-art track.” In the second race–a 7 1/2-furlong race for three native horses with a purse of $7,500–Downbebay had to be euthanized. He was never registered with the Jockey Club of America and is dubbed locally a “graded horse” since he has no value to professional racing. In the fourth race that afternoon with a purse of $10,000, Barrabas Key (Arg) (Key Deputy) suffered a breakdown. The 10-year-old chestnut gelding faced four others in the 7 1/2-furlong race for Class C horses. Going a mile for Class B and C runners with a purse of $11,500, the fifth race saw Black Label Racing's Macuco's Choice (Cairo Prince) win with Joshua Rodriguez in the irons. Afterwards, the 6-year-old had to be euthanized. Macuco's Choice had not competed since December of 2022 in Puerto Rico for conditioner Alexis Rivera. Run On the Trail (Union Rags) also passed away after the race. The 5-year-old gelding raced for trainer Luis A. Robles at Camarero back in March. Racing on 'Festive Finish Day' Dec. 22 | Darryl Jones The featured race, the $20,000 Winter Solstice Handicap at a mile and a sixteenth, included Quincy Café (Mendelssohn) and Pure Speight (Speightstown). As reported by TDN's Dan Ross in the Stewards and Commissions Rulings for Nov. 14-20, these are the same horses who tested positive for Formestane and 4-Hydroxytestosterone–both banned steroidal substances–after winning at Gulfstream Park Mar. 13 and Apr. 21, respectively. They were supposed to be in the care of trainer Paul Valery, who after they were taken down was eventually issued a suspension by HISA for a total 108 months, which concludes May 14, 2033. Pure Speight, whose owner is now St. Croix's Knight Racing Stables, won the race with jockey Sunday Diaz aboard. It was the gelding's fourth score since he was allowed to race in St. Thomas. In a press release dated Jan. 17, Virgin Islands Senator Franklin D. Johnson, who sits on the Sports and Parks Committee, urgently called for stronger regulatory protections for horses at home. The Senator cites the failure to pass Amendment No. 35-292, which was intended to reinstate anti-doping laws for horses and ensure safety, fairness and transparency in the sport, as a major disappointment. The amendment failed after eight senators voted against it, with one abstention. Jay Watson, the chairman of Intra-Caribbean Thoroughbred Equine Association (ICTEA) which includes members from Puerto Rico, Trinidad, Jamaica and Barbados in the West Indies, and a former chairman of the STT/STJ HRC, said that the racing surface at the Clinton Phipps facility is a major culprit and needs a complete reassessment. “I find the statements made by the Commission in the wake of these deaths to be disingenuous,” said Watson. “I can't believe that anyone would agree that racing without an anti-doping program in place would be acceptable. Look at the results. We shouldn't be racing and putting these horses in jeopardy on a surface that has not been tested properly.” He also said that “graded” horses like the ill-fated Downbebay need to be kept out of racing in the Virgin Islands. “They don't have any place in racing since they are not registered with the Jockey Club,” said Watson. “This is bush racing and that is certainly not appropriate for the animals and stakeholders who want professionalism in the ICTEA.” With a background in law enforcement and in leading investigations, Watson says that members of the Commission are fully aware of the rampant unregulated medication, which he said he believed includes Performance Enhancing Drugs. When the Anti-Doping statute was put into abeyance so the doping of racehorses could continue the former chairman said the Commission was silent. Jay Watson | courtesy of the VI Legislative Assembly He also explained that members know that horses who are banned elsewhere, like the ones from Gulfstream Park, are imported through U.S. Customs. “The need to use medication on injured horses to race them was testified to before the Senate by the leadership of the St. Croix and St. Thomas Horsemen's Associations,” Watson said. “If you medicate injured horses in order to race them, then catastrophic injuries are inevitable. I tried to address these issues six years ago and they ran me out. It's time for us to turn off the tap and if that means an end to racing, then so be it. Horse populations deserve better.” Watson said that a new generation of horsemen who are properly educated is what is needed. He also said that the Clinton Phipps racetrack surface needed to be regularly studied, which simply has not happened in the rush to get the site ready for racing in 2024. “I said a long time ago that adopting ARCI [Association of Racing Commissioners International] Model Rules is the way to go,” he said. “But this goes way deeper. Just like in American racing, we need representatives who have the political will and leadership to do what is ethically and morally right for the majority. Not for the benefit of a select few.” Despite the territorial connection to the U.S., Thoroughbred racing at the St. Thomas track falls outside the jurisdiction of the Horseracing and Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) and Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit (HIWU). Oversight also is not possible since there is no export signal. The ICTEA, which Watson helped found, is meant to provide stakeholders across the Caribbean with a united and organized structure that focuses on island racing districts. “I'm looking forward to input from all of the stakeholders,” said Watson. “So, what happened at Clinton E. Phipps doesn't replicate itself once again elsewhere. What happens here in the outer rim affects the entire industry.” The post After Breakdowns Last Year, Lack Of Oversight Puts Horses In Jeopardy In U.S. Virgin Islands appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

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By Jonny Turner Georgia Goodman took the pressure of driving a red-hot favourite in her stride when winning her first race in the sulky at Ascot Park yesterday. The 21-year-old produced a no-panic steer as Secret Agent Man dispatched his opposition in style in the Selling? Call Craig at Harcourts Junior Drivers Mobile Pace to create a memory the junior driver will never forget. Though winning her first race was already special, the reinswoman got an extra kick out of getting on the board with one of the favourite horses she works with at Nathan Williamson’s barn. “It is amazing,” Goodman said. “He has always been one of my favourites, so it’s really cool.” Having her family on track to greet her in the winner’s circle with Secret Agent Man also added another nice touch to Goodman’s win. “That was really cool, my mum and my brother were there to greet me.” “That was a big thrill, they have been big supporters of mine ever since I started out.” Goodman got keen on harness racing through her father Ian training horses at Winton. What started as a part-time job at Nathan Williamson’s stable has developed into a career. “I have always been horse mad ever since I was young.” “When I was still at school I did a bit of after-school and holiday work for Nathan and I have been there ever since, really.” “It is great working with quality horses all the time, it is a great thrill.” “Nathan is great to learn off, he has all the knowledge.” Goodman admitted that driving a $1.50 favourite brought some extra pre-race pressure. But the junior driver stayed cool, sitting parked before Secret Agent Man dispatched his rivals. “It made me a little bit more nervous but at the end of the day I know the horse and you always get a little bit nervous anyway.” Goodman could add another victory to her resume at the upcoming New Zealand Harness Racing Awards. The horsewoman has already competed in the national cadet of the year competition, with the winner to be announced at the awards evening. “I won the Southland cadet of the year and went and competed in Christchurch against three other winners.” “So I will find out at the New Zealand Harness Racing Awards coming up.” Goodman had racked up seven placings before breaking through in her 19th drive yesterday. To see Georgia Goodman speaking about his first victory click here View the full article

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Shaking off a more experienced and favored rival at the top of the Gulfstream stretch, Blueberry Hill (Munnings) powered home in eye-catching fashion Thursday to become the latest 'TDN Rising Star' for Coolmore's Munnings. The 3-1 second choice behind third-time starter Keepsake (Into Mischief), the Todd Pletcher trainee led from the jump but never got too comfortable up front as her rival stalked just off her hip through much of the running through fractions of :22.43 and :45.43. As the top pair opened up a gap back to the rest of the field off the turn, Blueberry Hill was set down for the stretch run by Irad Ortiz, Jr. and responded in kind, leaving Keepsake a far-back solo second to come home an easy, geared-down winner on debut by 5 3/4 lengths. Keepsake had to settle for second as the beaten favorite for a third-straight time while second-time starter and 6-1 shot Taratel (Candy Ride {Arg}) was a further four lengths back in a close finish for the show. The 3-year-old fillies completed the seven furlongs in 1:23.25. The 15th 'Rising Star' for Munnings, who was named one himself in his 2008 Saratoga unveiling, Blueberry Hill is the third winner from four to race out of GIII Pure Romance Bourbonette runner up Sloane Square (Giant's Causeway) who last RNA'd for $375,000 at KEENOV in 2015. Out GI Matron Stakes winner Marylebone, herself a $725,000 KEEESEP yearling who raced for owner Michael Tabor and trainer Todd Pletcher, the mare is a full-sister to stakes winner Bow Bells and to the dam of MGSP Hug and a Kiss (Thewayyouare). She is also a half to the dam of Kent Stakes winner and GIII New Kent County Virginia Derby third Desvio (Yoshida {Jpn}). Sloane Square has a 2-year-old full-brother to Blueberry Hill and a yearling filly by Uncle Mo. She returned to Munnings for 2025. #5 BLUEBERRY HILL ($8.80) ran away with the sixth race at @GulfstreamPark. The three-year-old filly by @CoolmoreAmerica's Munnings broke her maiden under Jockey @iradortiz for trainer @PletcherRacing. pic.twitter.com/F0PNLHERmm — FanDuel Racing (@FanDuel_Racing) January 30, 2025 6th-Gulfstream, $70,000, Msw, 1-30, 3yo, f, 7f, 1:23.25, ft, 5 3/4 lengths. BLUEBERRY HILL, f, 3, Munnings 1st Dam: Sloane Square {GSP}, by Giant's Causeway 2nd Dam: Marylebone, by Unbridled's Song 3rd Dam: Desert Queen, by Wavering Monarch Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $42,000. Click for the Equibase.com chart and VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. Click for the free Equineline.com catalog-style pedigree. O-Michael B. Tabor; B-Chelston (KY); T-Todd A. Pletcher. The post Blueberry Hill Sweet In Victory To Be Latest ‘TDN Rising Star’ For Munnings appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Pegasus Day at Gulfstream is one of my most enjoyable days at the races. The melding of great entertainment, world-class horses, and a great vibe shows racing at its best. It is expensive to put on and showcases our sport in the highest light. It is also the most ironic considering the recent announcement regarding the closing of Gulfstream and seeking development absent horse racing. I was perplexed to listen to Belinda Stronach on Pegasus Day speak of the non-compatibility of racing in an urban environment, despite all of the major racetracks worldwide being domiciled in such urban centers, almost without exception. Furthermore, her citing a crowning achievement of her tenure as the exit of Maryland racing was confusing at best. This is not a personal attack on 1/ST Racing, but merely an acknowledgment that avarice and 'land values' are now the driving force of the company, and not the future of Thoroughbred racing. Contrary to the ethos of founder Frank Stronach, whose goal was to place corporate holdings into a trust to preserve and protect racing, the properties are now meant to be used for their 'highest and best use.' The interpretation of such is that return on investment and profitability are primary motives and the acknowledgment that we do not meet this standard has been settled within the corporate ranks. It is incumbent upon all stakeholders to recognize this new reality and plan for a future without 1/ST Racing. Our 'partner' seeks a divorce and we can and must protect our interests post-divorce. Without a concession that allows for racing and development to co-mingle, we have no future at Gulfstream, nor at Santa Anita. To date, we have an unwilling 'partner' and the inexorable march to the inevitable closure of both stares back at us. The above racing properties have always had a higher and best use as urban density if your determination is that of profitability and land value versus a recognition that' we' bought racetrack properties in urban environments and their purpose is that of Thoroughbred racing. That is their tradition and a disregard for the impact these closures will have upon our industry is callous and self-centered, absolving any responsibility to the business that created this windfall opportunity, as well as to the chaos it thrusts us into through the loss of two iconic and historically important racetracks. We must negotiate the best divorce we can and I implore those parties that can and do have influence to align in order to create permanence and a certainty for our sport. The idea that 1/ST Racing would exit the racing business, then consider building another racetrack to reenter a business they just exited defies credibility. Suspend reality for a moment and accept the statement as true. If so, we are certain to face the same scenario once again when this new location becomes too valuable to conduct racing. We cannot accept decoupling in Florida and build our own gallows. Accepting the casino license committed Gulfstream to offer horse racing as a primary premise–not an arbitrary premise that they can eliminate for further profit. The same goes for horsemen's rights and the independence of a horsemen's group to protect their interests independent of the racetrack. The idea that a 'horsemen's group' would support or be neutral on the issue of decoupling suggests either collusion or an inability to understand any semblance of a fair deal. To give up more than six million annually in purse enhancements in return for a promise of three years of racing challenges the absurd, despite any corporate help offered during this time frame. If the threat of a reduction of racing dates and the inevitable retribution of any who opposed decoupling comes to fruition, so be it. Horsemen are tough and resilient; these are requisites for the life we live. Please get involved in the fight and do not wait for a savior, as one is not coming to our rescue. No concession without concession, no compromise without compromise must be our united stance. We must determine our own future and bring to bear political influence and the financial resources of individual and industry groups to ensure racing has a home in these important centers. The post Letter To The Editor: Gulfstream, Santa Anita, And Decoupling appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Robert. B. Lewis Stakes (G3) is a Southern California Kentucky Derby prep race that has been dominated in recent years by Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, who has won the last six editions among his 12 victories in this Santa Anita Park race.View the full article

I was feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness May 7, 1984. It was my first day at Daily Racing Form, hired to report on the breeding industry, farm news, and horse sales. At the time, the paper's Midwest offices were located at Keeneland, in fact on the ground floor of the clubhouse in what were some of the original stalls when the track first opened in 1936. I was not long removed from having earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Kentucky, where I was a rare student who requested morning classes. That way, I would not miss a single day of racing at Keeneland. For several years while a student, I was also employed during the race meets by Turf Catering, where I worked in the main kitchen and routinely snuck out to place wagers. A job with Daily Racing Form–which I began reading at age 11–and an office at Keeneland–my favorite place to be–well, life couldn't get much better for a 24-year-old. Until on the first day of employment by DRF I met James E. “Ted” Bassett III. Introduced to Bassett, he shook my hand, slapped me firmly on the back, and closed the door to his office so we could chat. “You related to Lance Liebman,” Bassett inquired. “Yes sir, first cousin,” I informed him. “Worst damn decision I ever made,” Bassett said, laughing. I knew the story … and Bassett would devote two pages to it in his autobiography, published in 1999. In 1958, my cousin Lance was about to graduate from Frankfort High School. Having applied to Yale, he was required to be interviewed by a Yale alum … in his case, Ted Bassett. Bassett informed the school he thought Lance, being from a small town in Kentucky, might not adjust well to life at Yale. Luckily, Bassett recounted in his book, the school ignored his recommendation. Ted Bassett celebrates his 95th Birthday during the Keeneland Fall Meet in 2016 | Keeneland/Photos by Z The day I met Bassett, he reeled off my cousin's accomplishments: graduated summa cum laude from Yale; M.A. in history from Cambridge; magna cum laude from Harvard Law School; law clerk to Supreme Court Justice Byron White; worked as assistant to New York Mayor John Lindsay; professor and later Associate Dean of the Harvard Law School; Dean of the Columbia School of Law; Director of the American Law Institute. Ted Bassett and I had an immediate and life-lasting connection. About 20 years ago, I informed Ted that Lance and his wife, Carol, were going to be visiting our farm near Frankfort. Bassett surprised Lance by showing up for lunch and the two of them spent a wonderful afternoon reminiscing. As we were leaving his office that Monday in 1984, Bassett turned around and took a key from his office desk. “You will find your job is not Monday to Friday, nor is it just during regular working hours,” he said. “Here is a key to the Keeneland offices so you can always have access to the library.” The Keeneland Library, arguably the best of its kind in the world, was then housed at the end of the second floor of the track's general offices. I routinely used its extensive collection of materials to research information for stories and columns. Over the years, I had countless conversations, discussions, track kitchen breakfasts, etc., with Ted Bassett. About six months after I was hired at Daily Racing Form, the office chief, the late Logan Bailey, informed me I had one of only six votes for the Eclipse Award winning breeder (today, all voters choose the breeder as they do all the other categories). Actually only five ballots were cast because the head of the committee, Bassett, would poll the voters and his vote was never required. Logan and I would do considerable research each year of the leading breeders, which we would share with the other voters. When we had chosen the winner we would also meet with Bassett to discuss our choice. Ted always thanked us for our tireless efforts in making the difficult decision of who stood out that year among the many breeders and breeding partnerships. My late father always told me during this journey we call life, you will encounter many people, but only a few will truly have a lasting impact. For me, Ted Bassett was one of those people. I once asked Ted why he always used “we” when describing something that had happened … never “I.” His explanation took 30 minutes. Basically, however, it was that anything one accomplishes only happens because of the work of others. A simple lesson, but one I have followed … and still do. Every text or email sent about my business says “we will do this,” or “we will do that.” As part of my duties for Daily Racing Form, I wrote an advance and recap of every sale session for Keeneland and Fasig-Tipton (as well as Kensington when it was holding auctions). One year I was walking through the Keeneland sale pavilion during one of the final sessions of a two-week September marathon. “Come outside with me,” Bassett said, grabbing my arm. We exited the front of the pavilion and walked down to the lower parking lot. “See all those trailers,” Bassett said. Before us were parked dozens of two- trailers, three- trailers, and four-horse trailers. Ted Bassett | EquiSport “Look at the license plates,” Bassett said. “Iowa, New Mexico, Kansas, Illinois, Louisiana, Ohio, Texas. “Everyone sees the headlines, the million-dollar yearlings, but it is just as important to us to fill these trailers. We must be here for the consignors selling in the final days and the buyers buying in the final days. If someone drove their trailer here, that trailer needs to leave here with horses in it.” A nugget of Bassett wisdom … and I never thought about a horse sale the same ever again. One year, the National Turf Writers Association (now National Turf Writers and Broadcasters) wanted to add a writing competition for stories written about the Breeders' Cup races. I was asked to approach Bassett with the idea, Ted having then left Keeneland's active management team to serve as president of Breeders' Cup. He loved the idea and agreed to support it wholeheartedly, even offering to attend the group's annual dinner and present one of the awards. One year, I received a call from Bassett. He could not attend that year's NTWA banquet. I told him I was upset, that he said he would always support us. “We've never had a cross word, but we're about to,” Bassett said. I knew I was in trouble. “I've been invited to a dinner that same night with the keepers of the stud books of every major country that breeds Thoroughbreds,” Bassett said. Before he could say more, I began apologizing. When I spotted him at the Breeders' Cup, I was ready to apologize more. Ted saw me striding toward him. He smiled, shook my hand firmly, and slapped me on the back. Anyone who ever met Ted Bassett knew of his Marine background, a flag he proudly waved until he died Jan. 23 at age 103. It was as if he never left the service, because he always gave you a strong handshake and then slapped you hard on the back or shoulder. What I wouldn't give today for one more Bassett smile, one more Bassett handshake, one more slap on the back. I will always be grateful for the sage advice, the private moments, the enduring friendship. The post Letter To the Editor: In Gratitude For Ted Bassett appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article