Wandering Eyes

What Canterbury Races Where Canterbury Park Racecourse – King Street, Canterbury NSW 2193 When Friday, January 31, 2025 First Race 6pm AEDT Visit Dabble Canterbury Park Racecourse is the destination for metro racing on Friday evening, with a competitive eight-part program set down for decision under lights. The rail moves out +6m the entire circuit for the meeting, and with consistent rainfall forecast heading into the weekend, punters can expect the surface to be rated somewhere in the Soft range as racing gets underway at 6pm AEDT. Best Bet at Canterbury: Delrico Chris Waller & James McDonald combine with Delrico in the third event, where the Kingman gelding appears set to peak fourth-up into the campaign. The winless three-year-old has found the minor money in all three starts this time in, including his latest performance behind the progressive Blue Vein on the Kensington circuit at Randwick on January 15. He appears to be the natural leader in this small field of 10, and provided McDonald can slide across to lead from the widest stall, Delrico should finally shirk the maiden tag at start six. Best Bet Race 3 – #2 Delrico (10) 3yo Gelding | T: Chris Waller | J: James McDonald (59kg) Next Best at Canterbury: Custom Custom has been an eye-catcher at the barrier trials leading into this first-up assignment, and the Godolphin filly appears perfectly placed to strike in the opening event. The daughter of Street Boss cruised through the wire under her own steam at Hawkesbury on January 20, suggesting the unraced two-year-old still had plenty left to give in the concluding stages. Tim Clark will go in search of cover from barrier seven, and provided he can slot in somewhere mid-field one-off the rail, watch for Custom to be surging down the centre of the course at a good price with Boombet. Next Best Race 1 – #8 Custom (7) 2yo Filly | T: James Cummings | J: Tim Clark (55kg) Best Value at Canterbury: Blazerro Formerly trained by Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald, Blazerro gets set to have his first start since being transferred to the Joseph Ible barn. The Pierro gelding appears to be travelling better than ever since his arrival, showing promise in a recent barrier trial at Hawkesbury on January 20 to suggest the well-tried six-year-old is nearing a return to his best. Jay Ford will attempt to find the one-one from gate four, and with every chance to make an impression first-up for a new stable, Blazerro warrants an each-way ticket at the big odds with horse racing bookmakers. Best Value Race 8 – #3 Blazerro (2) 6yo Gelding | T: Joseph Ible | J: Jay Ford (59kg) Friday quaddie tips for Canterbury Canterbury quadrella selections January 31, 2025 1-4-5 1-2-3-4-7-9-11 4-5-7-10 1-3-4-5-6 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

There are four horse racing meetings set for Australia on Thursday, January 30. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the best bets and the quaddie numbers for Pakenham. Thursday’s Free Horse Racing Tips – January 30, 2025 Pakenham Racing Tips As always, there are plenty of promotions available for Australian racing fans. Check out all the top online bookmakers to see what daily promotions they have. If you are looking for a new bookmaker for the horse racing taking place on January 30, 2025 check out our guide to the best online racing betting sites. 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. WHAT ARE YOU REALLY GAMBLING WITH? full terms. 3 Next Gen Racing Betting Picklebet Top 4 Betting. Extra Place. Every Race. Join Picklebet Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? Full terms. Recommended! 4 It Pays To Play PlayUp Aussie-owned horse racing specialists! Check Out PlayUp Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. Imagine what you could be buying instead. Full terms. Dabble Signup Code AUSRACING 5 Say Hey to the social bet! Dabble You Better Believe It Join Dabble Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? Full terms. Bet365 Signup Code GETON 6 Never Ordinary Bet365 World Favourite! Visit Bet365 Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. GETON is not a bonus code. bet365 does not offer bonus codes in Australia and this referral code does not grant access to offers. What’s gambling really costing you? Full terms. Horse racing tips View the full article

Due to the forecasted severe weather and potential flash flooding in the Hot Springs, Ark., area for Jan. 30, Oaklawn Park's nine-race card originally scheduled for that day has been rescheduled to Feb. 3.View the full article

Saffie Joseph, Jr. has had some big days since he came to the U.S. from his native Barbados in 2011, but perhaps none bigger than last Saturday at Gulfstream Park. He had three stakes wins, including a score with Be Your Best (Ire) (Muhahaarar ({GB}) in the GII Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational Stakes and a win with Mystic Lake (Mo Town) in the GII Inside Information Stakes. But the one that really mattered was the victory by White Abarrio (Race Day) in the GI Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes. Not only did he win a $3 million race, he did so with a horse who had been taken away from him during one of the darkest periods in his career. With plenty to talk about, Joseph Jr. was this week's Gainesway Guest of the Week on the TDN Writers' Room podcast presented by Keeneland. White Abarrio was taken away from Joseph around the time of the 2023 GI Kentucky Derby, when there was a rash of fatalities that once again caught the attention of the animal rights community. Joseph had two horses die, but they did not suffer from musculoskeletal injuries. Still, that put Joseph in limbo and the owners moved on to Rick Dutrow. Joseph admits that was one of the toughest things he has ever had to endure as a trainer. But, after a dull performance in the 2024 GI Metropolitan Handicap for Dutrow, the story changed again. White Abarrio was sent back to Joseph. “Everything in life happens for a reason,” Joseph said. “After that happened, did I ever envision that we were going to get the horse back? No. I mean, how could you envision a horse that wins a Whitney and a Breeders' Cup Classic for someone else and he's going to come back to you? “When we got the horse back [co-owner] Mark Cornett called me and said, 'Hey, we're gonna send the horse back to you.' It meant a lot because it showed that these owners believed in me and that meant a lot more to me than anything. Losing the horse, I knew I had to give up the horse. The writing was on the wall. We were not going to jeopardize the horse's career. But getting the horse back, that came from out of nowhere. There was nothing for them to gain because he had already won a Grade I. At that time, I wasn't in a mental capacity to even dream of getting him back. I mean, it took me a long time to kind of heal or get over it. I can't put into words how it's all unfolded. It's kind of like it was scripted and we were just part of the process.” White Abarrio | Ryan Thompson White Abarrio won an allowance in his first start back for Joseph and then was second in the GIII Mr. Prospector Stakes. For a horse of his ability, it was not a particularly good performance, but it set him up for what was arguably the best race of his career. Unchallenged in the stretch in the Pegasus, he drew off to win by 6 1/4 lengths. “I never thought he was going to run that good,” Joseph admitted. “We always hope they'll run that well, but most of the time it doesn't happen. We thought he was sitting on a race that was close to a race that should be good enough to win it if everything went well.” Joseph also spoke again about White Abarrio's groom Eduardo “Lalo” Diaz. He is convinced that in some of the races in which White Abarrio didn't fire his best shot it was because he didn't have his favorite groom at his side. “When you find [a groom] that really loves his horses and has the passion, they're hard to duplicate,”Joseph said. “And that's what Lalo has. Apart from being a really good groom, his personality never changes. He's very level-headed, very even-keeled, never too high, never too low. I'm a strong believer that horses feed off the energy of the people around them. You see horses and they have nervous grooms and they're nervous. And you see horses that have calm grooms and they are calm. When I have a horse with [Diaz], I feel like I don't even have to look at him, tell him anything. I feel like he's just clutch. Every time he delivers his horses, they always look immaculate.” In our “Fastest Horse of the Week,” segment, which is sponsored by WinStar Farm, we went over the many reasons there are breed to WinStar stallion Timberlake. With a 109 Beyer, White Abarrio was the “fastest horse of the week.” Elsewhere on the podcast, which is also sponsored by the Pennsylvania Horse Breeders' Association, West Point Thoroughbreds, and XBTV.com, the team of T.D Thornton, Randy Moss and Bill Finley reviewed the Pegasus and the GIII Southwest Stakes at Oaklawn, which was won by Speed King (Volatile). Sticking with the theme of the Road to the Kentucky Derby, there was also a preview of this week's GIII Holy Bull Stakes and the Robert B. Lewis Stakes. With 1/ST Racing executives Aidan Butler and Belinda Stronach addressing the situation at Gulfstream Park during the week in interviews, the team gave its opinions on the latest news out of South Florida. While there was some optimism that racing would somehow continue in the area, the consensus remained that it wouldn't be at Gulfstream Park. To watch the Writers' Room, click here. To view the show as a podcast, click here. The post Saffie Joseph Jr. Joins The TDN Writers’ Room Podcast Presented By Keeneland appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Oaklawn Park has postponed Thursday, Jan. 30's card, rescheduling it to Monday, Feb. 3. Severe weather, including possible flash flooding, is forecasted for the area for Thursday. The Jan. 30 race date was originally added to make up for other race dates lost to winter weather. Weather has repeatedly played havoc on Oaklawn's calendar this season. Live racing is expected to resume Friday, Jan. 31. The post Oaklawn Postpones Thursday’s Card to Monday appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit announced Jan. 29 that it has directed the Pennsylvania Equine Toxicology and Research Laboratory to modify its instrumentation and methodology for TCO2 testing to mass spectrometry.View the full article

By Jonny Turner Molly Belwin’s last start third at Ascot Park has only kept looking better ahead of her return to the track on Thursday. The four-year-old is among a three-pronged attack Stonewall Stud are sending south for Invercargill’s twilight meeting. Molly Belwin worked hard in the last lap of her last run in the south before fighting on gamely for third behind Tabasco. Tabasco went up in grade to run a big second in the Riverton Cup on Sunday, while Molly Belwin has the luxury of stepping back in company on Thursday. While the mare looks a huge winning threat, trainer Amanda Telfer knows she will need a touch of luck on her side. “She is pretty quick and she is one of those ones that has to be driven for one run at them.” “She will have no option but to slot in somewhere from the draw, then we will have to see how the race pans out from there.” “I was really happy with her last run, she got pushed out down the back straight which is really not her go but she stuck on well for third.” “Her work has been good since then and I have been quite happy with her.” Ellie Barron will link up with Molly Belwin in Race 9, the Ihire Mobile Pace (7.31pm), as the mare searches for a penalty-free junior driver’s victory. Mythical also starts at Invercargill in Race 6, the Monica Toretto Photography Mobile Pace (6.13pm), to kick off her three-year-old campaign for driver Tim Williams. The filly won her latest trial in Canterbury and appears to be heading south on an upward trajectory. “Tim was really happy with her trial,” Telfer said. “She has only had the one trial but she is pretty fit and it seems like a good option to head down south with her.” “If she comes through this race well there is another race for her down there last week.” The Stonewall Stud team also start B D Hall in Race 2, the Regent Car Court Trot (4.23pm), following his strong debut second at Oamaru recently. The trotter showed excellent manners first up and it is hoped he can do so again. “He is a big horse and you wouldn’t think he would be one that would be running early,” Telfer said. “He’s had five trials, he had three as a two-year-old and another couple this time in.” “He just wants to trot, he can make a mistake, but he really wants to do it.” “Fingers crossed he can do everything right again and go another nice race.” Tim Williams also links up with B D Hall. View the full article

The Queens M G, winner of the 2024 Adirondack Stakes (G3), looks to return to her winning ways Feb. 1 in the Forward Gal Stakes (G3) at Gulfstream Park. She faces a deep field including stakes winners My Denysse and Stunner. View the full article

The Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit announced Jan. 29 that it has directed the Pennsylvania Equine Toxicology and Research Laboratory to modify its instrumentation and methodology for TCO2 testing to mass spectrometry.View the full article

The post Misjudged Finish appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Every week, the TDN posts a roundup of the relevant Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA) related rulings from around the country. The following rulings were reported on HISA's “rulings” portal and through the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit's (HIWU) “pending” and “resolved” cases portals. Resolved ADMC Violations Date: 01/28/2025 Licensee: Joanna Shankle, trainer Penalty: 7-day period of Ineligibility for Covered Person, beginning on January 29, 2025; Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $1,000; imposition of 2 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: Medication violation for the presence of Acepromazine—a controlled substance (Class B)—in a sample taken from Baby Sox, who won at Laurel Park on 12/20/24. Date: 01/28/2025 Licensee: Eric Ramaekers, trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); Treated as 1 violation with Hurt So Good's 11/19/24 violation under 09/08/23 HISA Guidance. Final decision of HIWU. Explainer: Medication violation for the presence of Phenylbutazone—a controlled substance (Class C)—in a sample taken from Hurts so Good, who finished fourth at Zia Park on 12/9/24. Date: 01/28/2025 Licensee: Shon Dunlap, trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Final decision of HIWU. Explainer: Medication violation for the presence of Dexamethasone—a controlled substance (Class C)—in a sample taken from Ooh La Da Stoops, who won at Remington Park on 12/7/24. Date: 01/28/2025 Licensee: Shon Dunlap, trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Final decision of HIWU. Explainer: Medication violation for the presence of Dexamethasone—a controlled substance (Class C)—in a sample taken from Ooh La Da Stoops, who won at Remington Park on 12/7/24. Date: 01/27/2025 Licensee: Martin Orona Sr., trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $500 per violation, for a total fine of $1,500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points per violation, for a total of 4.5 penalty points. Admission. Explainer: Medication violation for the presence of Dexamethasone, Methocarbamol and Phenylbutazone—all controlled substances (Class C)—in a sample taken from Sierra Summer, who finished sixth at Zia Park on 12/10/24. Date: 01/27/2025 Licensee: Martin Orona Sr., trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $500 per violation, for a total fine of $1,500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points per violation, for a total of 4.5 penalty points. Admission. Explainer: Medication violation for the presence of Dexamethasone, Methocarbamol and Phenylbutazone—all controlled substances (Class C)—in a sample taken from Sierra Summer, who finished sixth at Zia Park on 12/10/24. Date: 01/23/2025 Licensee: Kenneth Miller, trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: Medication violation for the presence of Triamcinolone—a controlled substance (Class C)—in a sample taken from Overstatement, who finished second at Keeneland on 10/4/24. Date: 01/22/2025 Licensee: Scooter Davis, trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Final decision of HIWU. Explainer: Vets' list medication violation for the presence of Phenylbutazone—a controlled substance (Class C)—in a sample taken from John Dutton, who won at Tampa Bay on 11/29/24. Pending ADMC Violations 01/29/2025, Peter Miller, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of Acepromazine—a controlled substance (Class B)—in a sample taken from Enjoy it Strait, who finished tenth at Del Mar on 11/9/24. 01/28/2025, Glenroy Brown, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of Dexamethasone—a controlled substance (Class C)—in a sample taken from Tammy's Toy, who won at Mahoning Valley on 12/23/24. 01/28/2025, Radolfo Sanchez-Salomon, trainer: Pending medication violation for the potential breach of Rule 4221—Alkalinization or use/administration of an Alkalinizing Agent (TCO2)—on Tik Tok Daddy, who finished third at Laurel Park on 12/13/24. This was also a possible violation of Rule 3313—Use of a Controlled Method During the Race Period. 01/24/2025, Jose Silva Jr., trainer: Pending medication violation for the potential breach of Rule 4221—Alkalinization or use/administration of an Alkalinizing Agent (TCO2)—on House of Lords, who finished tenth at Turf Paradise on 12/30/24. This was also a possible violation of Rule 3313—Use of a Controlled Method During the Race Period. 01/24/2025, Gary Greiner, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of Methocarbamol—a controlled substance (Class C)—in a sample taken from Man Overboard, who finished sixth at Pleasanton on 12/18/24. 01/24/2025, Edward Coletti Jr., trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of Acepromazine—a controlled substance (Class B)—in a sample taken from Bear or Bull, who finished second at Parx Racing on 12/12/24. 01/24/2025, Salvador Sato, trainer: Pending medication violations for the presence of Methocarbamol, Phenylbutazone and Dexamethasone—all controlled substances (Class C)—in samples taken from Geebeesbigboy, who finished fourth at Zia Park on 12/2/24, and from Stormy Dame, who won at Zia Park on 12/9/24. 01/23/2025, Juan Silva, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of Methocarbamol—a controlled substance (Class C)—in a sample taken from Mt. Zeror, who finished second at Turf Paradise on 12/17/24. 01/23/2025, Paul Aguirre, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of Methamphetamine—a banned substance—in a sample taken from Don't Tell Tammo, who won at Del Mar on 11/29/24. Violations of Crop Rule Oaklawn Park Isaac Castillo – violation date Jan 26; $250 fine Harry Hernandez – violation date Jan 23; $250 fine, one-day suspension Santa Anita Alejandro Gomez – violation date Jan 23; One-day suspension, $250 fine Turf Paradise Fausto Da Silva – violation date Jan 27; One-day suspension, $250 fine The post National Regulatory Rulings, Jan. 23-29 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The son of Air Force Blue has a comfort level with the turf at Santa Anita having run 16 of his career 22 starts there with a record of 5-2-1. Overall, Air Force Red is 6-3-1 from 22 starts with earnings of $639,074.View the full article

The Godolphin/Charlie Appleby axis has dominated recent renewals of Kempton's Unibet Supports Safer Gambling Maiden Stakes, winning last year's edition with subsequent G1 2000 Guineas and G1 Sussex Stakes hero Notable Speech (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}). The operation struck gold once again as Opera Ballo (Ire) (Ghaiyyath {Ire}–Dubai Opera {GB}, by Invincible Spirit {Ire}) emulated that stablemate in division one of Wednesday's one-mile contest and collected a 'TDN Rising Star' of his own with an impressive wide-margin success. He joins Chantilly maiden scorer Mandanaba (Fr) on Ghaiyyath's list of Rising Stars. Opera Ballo broke smartly from the outside stall to gain an early advantage and accepted a tow in second after the initial strides of this first go. Forging ahead passing the two pole, the 4-9 favourite quickened clear in taking fashion approaching the final furlong and kept on powerfully in the latter stages to easily outclass Gennadius (GB) (Ulysses {Ire}) by an impressive 8 1/2 lengths. “He's a beautiful horse and just watching him go around the paddock was nice,” commented rider Billy Loughnane. “He really impressed me with the way he went about his business. He was very professional, he got away lovely and managed to find a nice slot. He overraced a little bit and was quite green through the early stages, so I think he'd be better off racing with a bit of cover. When I asked him to stretch at the two pole, he lengthened away quickly and gave me a really nice feel.” Opera Ballo is the second foal and scorer out of a full-sister to dual Group 3 winner Lockwood (GB) (Invincible Spirit {Ire}) and Listed Gala Stakes third Saga (GB) (Invincible Spirit {Ire}). His dam Dubai Opera (GB) (Invincible Spirit {Ire}) is also kin to G1 Criterium International runner-up and G3 Prix Thomas Bryon-winning sire Earnshaw (Medaglia D'Oro) out of G3 Prix des Reservoirs victrix Emily Bronte (GB) (Machiavellian). The March-foaled bay is half to a 2-year-old colt by Sottsass (Fr). Impressive debut! @loughnane_billy guides €600,000 purchase Opera Ballo (Ghaiyyath) to a debut success for Charlie Appleby in the race won last year by Notable Speech @godolphin @UnibetRacing | @kemptonparkrace pic.twitter.com/fUs0oHHc1M — Racing TV (@RacingTV) January 29, 2025 2nd-Kempton, £8,000, Mdn, 1-29, 3yo/up, 8f (AWT), 1:40.64, st/sl. OPERA BALLO (IRE), c, 3, by Ghaiyyath (Ire) 1st Dam: Dubai Opera (GB), by Invincible Spirit (Ire) 2nd Dam: Emily Bronte (GB), by Machiavellian 3rd Dam: Zafadola (Ire), by Darshaan (GB) Sales history: €600,000 Ylg '23 ARAUG. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $5,375. Click for the free Equineline.com catalogue-style pedigree. O-Godolphin; B-Ecurie de Cachene (IRE); T-Charlie Appleby; J-Billy Loughnane. The post Ghaiyyath’s Opera Ballo Powers to TDN Rising Stardom at Kempton appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

There's a reason why Bob Baffert has won the GIII Robert B. Lewis Stakes 12 times, including the last six running. At this time of year his barn is always loaded with talented 3-year-old colts who have one eye on the Lewis and another on the GI Kentucky Derby. It will be a familiar story at Santa Anita Saturday as Baffert will send out three of the five horses entered in the Lewis. His trio is topped by 2-year-old champion and GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile winner Citizen Bull (Into Mischief), who will be making his first start of the year. But he may not be the favorite. That's how impressive stablemate 'TDN Rising Star' Rodriguez (Authentic) was when breaking his maiden last out by seven lengths while earning a 101 Beyer Speed Figure. Baffert also has Madaket Road (Quality Road), a maiden winner in his last start. All three are owned by the partnership of SF Racing LLC, Starlight Racing and Madaket Stables LLC. Despite his strong hand, Baffert remains cautious when it comes to how these horses might perform in the Derby. He says it is too early to predict anything. “We still have a long way to go,” Baffert said. “We have some nice horses but you really don't know until March or April and that last prep where you stand. You can be in a position where you think you are strong and then it turns out you are not as strong as you thought you were. They're still developing and we're still getting races into them. You try to get as many races into them as you can so you can have them ready and put that foundation into them. You don't really have a Derby horse until those last prep races. Until they go a mile-and-an-eighth, that's when we know. The mile-and-an-eighth separates these horses.” After his front-running win in the Juvenile, Citizen Bull returned to the worktab on Dec. 13. He hasn't missed a beat since. But Baffert said he might be a horse that will do his best running a little later in the year. “The Bull, he's a horse that may need a race or two,” Baffert said. “We found that out in the Del Mar Futurity when he got beat. It was only his second start and Mike Smith said he got a little tired. I'd rather race them than just train them, train them, train them. You have to get races into these horses.” After finishing second in his debut in a 6 1/2-furlong maiden, Rodriguez hammered his opposition in another maiden, this one on Jan. 4 at Santa Anita. “He's always trained like a nice horse,” Baffert said. “He reminds me a lot of Authentic. I think the Authentics are going to be really good. It's just that some of them are slow to mature. It took this one a while to come around. I don't think the distance should be a problem. The race will help him. He's the kind of horse that needs racing. Now, he needs to run.” How the Lewis plays out on the track should be fascinating. Citizen Bull, Rodriguez and the Wesley Ward-trained Clock Tower (Not This Time) all have ample early speed. That sets up the possibility of a speed duel, one that might involve Citizen Bull, Rodriguez or both. Baffert said he will let their jockeys ride their own race. Martin Garcia rides Citizen Bull. Juan Hernandez rides Rodriguez. “I usually let the jockeys ride their own horse,” Baffert said. “The break will be the key. I'm sure they'll play it off of the break. They'll ride their own horses and let them get into a nice rhythm.” As good as Baffert's Lewis trio might be, it's possible that the best 3-year-old in his barn is one who won't be running Saturday. That would be Barnes (Into Mischief), who was bought for $3.2 million by Amr Zedan at the Fasig-Tipton Saratoga sale. After a somewhat lackluster win in his Nov. 27 debut at Churchill Downs, he came back with a dominant performance in the GII San Vicente at seven furlongs. “He still has to go two turns,” Baffert said. “He should handle it, but you don't know until they do it. So far, he looks good and we're trying to just trying to keep him healthy.” Baffert said that he and Zedan are still working on a race schedule for Barnes. Win or lose, this should be a memorable Derby for Baffert since it will be the first one he will be allowed to run in since 2021. Churchill Downs banned Baffert after Medina Spirit (Protonico), who crossed the wire first in the 2021 Derby, was disqualified after testing positive for betamethasone. The ban was lifted last fall and now the only thing Baffert has to worry about is how his horses are doing. “It's over with and everything is good,” Baffert said. “I'm just trying to focus on what's in front of us.” The post Baffert Will Triple Team Them in Robert B. Lewis appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

It can come as quite a shock when we stumble across damaging untruths about ourselves. This is what happened to myself and numerous other trainers at the end of last week when an article appeared on the Racing Post website, based on comments from “Nigel Payne, who is acting for the Professional Racing Association”, the gist of which was that trainers believe that they should receive payment for live interviews on the television and that consequently trainers are taking action to try to obtain the payment to which they feel entitled, neither part of which is true. Payne's words, of course, have prompted widespread derision towards trainers, on social media and elsewhere, so it makes sense to set the record straight. To do this, one should explain the background. A year ago Peter Savill, formerly chairman of the BHB and a longstanding supporter of the game as racehorse owner, breeder, administrator and owner of Plumpton racecourse, set up the Professional Racing Association. Frustrated by the fact that any progress being made towards increasing prize-money achieved by The Thoroughbred Group could be better described as stately rather than dramatic, he felt he could do better. Many trainers share that view so, when invited, many of them (including myself) joined the group, for which no joining fee or subscription is charged. As a racecourse owner, he understands the business and has calculated that it is not unreasonable to expect each racecourse to put at least a third of its race-day income (from entrance fees, entry fees, sponsorship, Levy grant, picture-rights payments etc.) towards prize-money. His approach was and is simple: to identify which racecourses contribute what he sees as a fair share and to encourage owners and trainers to run their horses there; and to try to encourage the less generous tracks to raise their game. If successful in the latter objective, the PRA could trigger an eight-figure annual increase in British prize-money. This is a laudable aim and it is hard to see that anyone with the long-term interests of the sport at heart could object to this. The one problem is that the PRA obviously requires money to function, most notably to pay its staff and the rent for its office, and it has no income. Hitherto Savill has footed the bill himself in its entirety but from the outset he made it clear that, understandably, he did not intend to do so indefinitely. Happily (or so it seemed at the time) a solution appeared to have presented itself. Savill had been made aware that the two satellite television companies pay a six-figure sum each year to the Professional Jockeys' Association in recognition of the co-operation which the jockeys collectively give, via interviews, to the coverage of racing. The idea formed that they might be persuaded to give a similar sum in recognition of the co-operation of trainers, and the PRA would ask for this to enable it to continue to exist. Most of the leading National Hunt trainers agreed, when asked, to endorse the PRA's request; and, to show their support for it, agreed to say that they would decline interview requests if it were not granted. The crucial factors to bear in mind are that, while the PJA's money goes into an insurance scheme of which jockeys are the only beneficiaries, none of the money given in recognition of trainers' collective co-operation would be given to any trainers but instead would pay for the running costs of an enterprise which was aiming to raise significant sums to benefit primarily owners but everyone else who gets a cut of prize-money (ie jockeys, trainers, stable staff, racing charities etc.). Furthermore, in the wider sense, this money, if encouraging racehorse ownership, might benefit not only jockeys, trainers and stable staff but also everyone who would welcome racing becoming more competitive, such as bookmakers, punters, and racegoers. It's easy to be wise in hindsight. And perhaps this request was doomed to failure from the outset. That is unknowable. But what does appear certain is that a consequence of the original article which, prompted seemingly by the words of Nigel Payne, falsely portrayed this request as a request by trainers (which it wasn't) for trainers to be paid for giving interviews (which it wasn't) has meant that it now seems certain not to succeed. Further consequences are the opprobrium which has been undeservedly heaped on trainers in general for their supposed greed; and a hammer-blow to the credibility of the PRA (which now has no source of funds and, unless this situation can be remedied by some other means, will have to close anyway). All of which is rather sad. An effort by a great supporter of British racing aimed at trying to boost prize-money deserved better than this and certainly didn't deserve the ridicule to which it has now been exposed. And trainers certainly didn't deserve to have their support for it so badly misrepresented. As a post-script to this sorry tale, it is probably worth mentioning that the tracks which, according to the PRA's research, already direct a healthy percentage of their race-day income towards prize-money include the 17 listed (alphabetically) below. PRA policy revolves around encouraging people to support such racecourses and we would like to do our bit by giving credit where it is due. Bangor-on-Dee Chelmsford City Fakenham Goodwood Hamilton Park Hexham Kelso Ludlow Musselburgh Newbury Newton Abbot Plumpton Pontefract Ripon Salisbury Taunton York. The post Op-Ed: Beleaguered PRA Laudable but Misunderstood appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Edited Press Release The Pennsylvania Equine Toxicology and Research Laboratory (PETRL), a Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Anti-Doping and Medication Control (ADMC) Program laboratory, has been directed to modify its instrumentation and methodology for TCO2 testing to mass spectrometry so that it is consistent with the Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit's three other Program laboratories, HIWU announced Wednesday. PETRL has already transitioned to this methodology, which is also independently endorsed by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities. HIWU began its review of PETRL's procedures in response to a disproportionately high number of reports of elevated TCO2 levels from the laboratory and worked with horsemen's representatives throughout this process. HIWU first undertook a comprehensive assessment of testing documentation and laboratory processes at PETRL before asking the Kenneth L. Maddy Equine Analytical Laboratory at the University of California Davis to conduct an administration study to compare the findings reported by the Program laboratories. PETRL's instrument (a clinical blood gas analyzer) and related methodology had been used and accepted as valid by the horse racing industry to regulate TCO2 for years prior to the implementation of the ADMC Program, and HIWU found no evidence of laboratory error or instrument failure by PETRL. However, the data from the administration study indicated that PETRL's results did not correlate with those of the three other laboratories, which all used an instrument and methodology (mass spectrometry) different from PETRL's. In response, HIWU has issued a new mandate for mass spectrometry to be adopted as the industry standard for TCO2 analysis confirmation. This method is used to analyze virtually all other substances regulated under the ADMC Program. In the interest of fairness to horsemen, all pending TCO2 cases originating in Pennsylvania have been withdrawn; due to the accelerated degradation of TCO2 samples compared to other analytes, HIWU could not send previously analyzed samples to other Program laboratories to compare the results. For cases that have already been resolved, HISA offered to return purse money, refund fines, notify Equibase to remove the disqualifications, and remove penalty points from the affected trainers' records. Purse money that has already been distributed by racetracks in relation to these cases will not be affected. In total, five trainers–Jorge Diaz, Bernard Dunham, David Jacobson, William Martin and Silvino Ramirez–served 30-day suspensions for TCO2 positives that had been processed by the Pennsylvania Lab. “The discovery of inconsistencies in TCO2 testing across Program laboratories and HIWU's subsequent responsibility to establish harmonization among them represent the benefits of a national ADMC program,” said Ben Mosier, executive director of HIWU. “Unlike under state-based regulatory structures, our Program laboratories are in ongoing communication to discuss and compare methods. This collaboration is what enabled us to identify and resolve discrepancies in TCO2 testing despite the longstanding validity of the methods and instruments being used.” “I commend HIWU for taking action in response to the high rate of TCO2 findings at PETRL and ultimately facilitating the harmonization of TCO2 testing among Pennsylvania and other states,” said Jeffrey A. Matty, Jr., executive director of the Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association. “Ben and his team listened to our horsemen's concerns and were in ongoing communication with us while the laboratory was reviewed. We're also appreciative of HISA for their decision to offer to withdraw sanctions imposed for cases that have already been resolved. “This process represents an example of how a national, uniform system helps horsemen and how we, HIWU, and HISA can work together for the benefit of the entire industry.” Evaluation of testing at Program laboratories is ongoing to ensure consistency and fairness in results reporting. HIWU has implemented HISA Equine Analytical Laboratory (HEAL) accreditation as of January 1, 2025. HEAL accreditation includes a robust Equine Quality Assurance Scheme sample program. The post HIWU Mandates Uniform Testing Methodology for TCO2 Analysis Across Program Laboratories appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Adam Hamilton Kiwi greats Anthony Butt and Cran Dalgety know how to win a Hunter Cup. They also fully understand the importance of good barriers in modern-day racing, which is why their confidence has grown going into Victoria’s biggest race at Melton on Saturday night. Dalgety, who won the 2014 Hunter Cup with Christen Me, co-trains Auckland Cup winner Republican Party, who landed the coveted pole position while Butt, who boasts a record seven driving wins in the Hunter Cup, is caretaker trainer and driver of Mark Jones’ emerging Kiwi pacer Tact McLeod. Butt was delighted when Tact McLeod, renowned for his early brilliance, drew barrier three. Let’s start with Butt given he believes Tact McLeod has the draw and is the right sort of horse to give him his eighth Hunter Cup, but break a drought given it is 12 years since his most recent victory on Mah Sish. “Put it this way, he’s a better horse than some I’ve won a Hunter Cup on,” he said. “The draw, not just for my horse but obviously having Leap To Fame drawn where he has (inside the back row, gate eight) really helps our cause. “The way he began last week, I’m confident he’ll cross Republican Party, hold the rest and lead early and then we’ll have options. “While I think he’d run a good race leading, his best chance against the absolute best would be sitting on a helmet and having the last shot at them. “No doubt Swayzee will be off and running early and he’d be a great horse to sit on. His style is to break their hearts and run along, which makes it hard for those covering ground and trying to get into it. “Sitting on his back would be ideal, especially if Leap To Fame is back in traffic or even had to sit outside him. Butt said it was only in the past two weeks where he and partner Sonya Smith have been really happy with Tact McLeod. “He’s just had a series of niggles since coming down to us after the Inter Dominion in Sydney,” he said. “He tied-up a bit early, then the abscess flared again and there was also a bit of a cough we got on top of by changing a few things. “I said to everyone he’d jumped out of the ground going into last week and I thought he’d run a great race against Leap To Fame, so it was pleasing he pulled ground off him even though the race was a real sprint home. “He’ll be a better horse again in six to 12 months with more experience in these top races, but given the draw and run he should get, he’ll run a huge race this week.” Dalgety said Republican Party might have a strong say against in about Butt’s plan to lead early on Tact McLeod. “I think he’s got the speed to hold them and Carter has to come out as hard as he can for the first 80m or so to see if that’s the case,” he said. “Our preference would be to hold-up early, but if we don’t, we’re still on the marker pegs, maybe three-back, and the more I’ve watched the Melton racing lately and spoken to the trainers and drivers, the pegs is the place to be. “We had to sit outside Leap To Fame last week and I thought he stuck on well. He was gasping between the 500-400m last week, but so too were most others, and he dug in and still finished the race off well. “He’s shown he’s up with the best Kiwis, but now he’s taking on Australasia’s best and that’s another step-up, but the marbles means we’ll have to do less work than most and that gives us a chance.” View the full article

In recognition of Black History Month, the Maryland Horse Library and Education Center will host the traveling exhibit, The Heart of the Turf: Racing's Black Pioneers. The exhibit will open Saturday, Feb. 1 with a talk by the exhibit curator, and Library Director, Roda Ferraro from the Keeneland Library. The exhibit will be available to visit at the MHLEC through Feb. 28. Heart of the Turf highlights the lives and careers of 100 African American horsemen and horsewomen from the mid-1800s to the present. One-of-a-kind photographs from the Keeneland Library collection capture moments across their varied careers, while biographical vignettes honor their lasting legacies. From racetrack superstars to behind-the-scenes caretakers, The Heart of the Turf: Racing's Black Pioneers showcases stories of the countless African Americans who forged their way in horse racing in Kentucky and beyond. “We will take this time to acknowledge the contributions of the many Black horsemen who are the bedrock of horse racing”, said Cricket Goodall, executive director of the MHLEC. “As in so many sports, African Americans were the pioneers in history.” The post Traveling Exhibit Celebrating Racing’s Black Pioneers Opens Saturday appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Tragedy struck Charlie Appleby and the Godolphin team in Dubai last week when their Measured Time (GB) (Frankel {GB}) lost his life in his quest for a second consecutive triumph in the G1 Jebel Hatta. A seven-time winner all told, with his other wins including last year's GI Manhattan Stakes at Saratoga, he was a terrific servant to connections and another star name for whom it all began on the all-weather. In fact, it will be exactly two years ago on Saturday that he ran out an emphatic debut winner at Kempton. Speaking of all-weather anniversaries, there is another one which promises to set tongues wagging over the coming hours, as I write this now on Wednesday morning. After all, it is tonight at Kempton that a potentially informative maiden will be run, that which was won last year by another celebrated Appleby trainee in the subsequent 2,000 Guineas and Sussex Stakes hero Notable Speech (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}). Rest assured, the outcome of both divisions of that race will be picked apart in detail here next week, but for now I can tell you that the odds-on favourite for the first division is a Ghaiyyath (Ire) colt by the name of Opera Ballo (Ire), trained by, you guessed it, Charlie Appleby. Watch this space… Time the Great Healer The loss of Measured Time is sure to leave a significant void at Moulton Paddocks, but if there was an ounce of recompense to be found in recent days, then that too came on the all-weather in the shape of winners at Kempton and Wolverhampton, both three-year-olds with the potential to make their presence felt at a higher level in time. Dunstall Park winner Treasure Fleet (GB) is making his second appearance in this space in as many weeks, having maintained his unbeaten record with a comfortable win in the novice run over an extended mile on Tuesday. Burdened with a 7lb penalty for his debut victory over the same course and distance three weeks earlier, the son of Kingman (GB) and Listed winner Pure Excellence (GB) (Exceed And Excel {Aus}) justified odds-on favouritism with the minimum of fuss, readily asserting in the final furlong to land the spoils by two and a quarter lengths. Admittedly, it's possible to pick holes in what Treasure Fleet achieved–the runner-up had finished well beaten when making his debut the previous month, while the overall time was comfortably the slowest of the four contests run over the extended mile on Monday's card–but jockey James Doyle was complimentary enough in his post-race debrief with Sky Sports Racing, expressing his view that the steady pace didn't see his mount to best effect. “The further he went, the better,” Doyle summarised, suggesting it's over middle-distances that this expensive breeze-up buy is likely to really come into his own. As for Kempton winner Tribal Act (Ire) (Sea The Stars {Ire}), he's already shown himself to be a thorough stayer in the making, having powered to a seven-and-a-half-length win in the maiden run over a mile and three furlongs on Wednesday of last week. It was a performance which saw him fully confirm the promise of his debut over the same course and distance five weeks earlier, when making late headway to finish fifth in a maiden won by stable-mate Aegean Prince (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}). The Godolphin homebred is the fourth winner from five runners out of the Listed winner Show Day (Ire) (Shamardal), a full-sister to the G2 Dahlia Stakes and G2 Duke Of Cambridge Stakes heroine Usherette (Ire) and a half to the Listed winner and GII Canadian Stakes runner-up Magnetic Charm (GB) (Exceed And Excel {Aus}). Already gelded, Tribal Act still looked far from the finished article at Kempton–he was slowly away, before hanging right when produced to lead inside the final two furlongs–and this relentless galloper can only improve as his stamina is drawn out further. Tribal Act (Sea The Stars) does the business nicely at @kemptonparkrace pic.twitter.com/UfLT291vST — Racing TV (@RacingTV) January 22, 2025 Burke Bandwagon Rolls On At the other end of the distance spectrum, Rebel's Gamble (Ire) looked one of the most promising three-year-old sprinters we've seen on the all-weather this winter as the full-brother to Nahaarr (Ire), runner-up in the G2 Duke Of York Stakes, made it two from two with an explosive display in the six-furlong novice at Newcastle on Thursday. When the son of Dark Angel (Ire) won a similar event at Southwell at the start of the month, I wrote that his debut performance didn't really have the wow factor, but it was a different story at Gosforth Park as he brushed aside his chief market rival, Rainbow Nebula (Fr) (Hello Youmzain {Fr}), to whom he was conceding 7lb. Still hard on the bridle when moving up to challenge the leader entering the final two furlongs, he then proceeded to streak clear to win by five and a half lengths with plenty in hand. It wasn't simply a case of style over substance, either. The overall time, for example, compared favourably with that of the class 4 handicap run over the same course and distance earlier on the card, while runner-up Rainbow Nebula brought a solid level of form to the table, having finished a close-up third when making his debut in the Newcastle novice won by The Watcher (Ire) (Invincible Spirit {Ire}) back in December. Rebel's Gamble and The Watcher both hail from the Middleham yard of Karl Burke, who was also among the winners at Kempton on Wednesday when newcomer Zeus Olympios (GB) struck in the seven-furlong maiden at odds of 2-7. That SP suggests anything other than victory for the son of Night Of Thunder (Ire) would have been a disappointment, so it was a case of job done, even if he didn't exactly set the world alight in beating a now-six-race maiden by a length. “He has been working really well at home but he's had his niggles,” jockey Clifford Lee told Racing TV afterwards. “He's done that quite nicely in a race that didn't feel that strong. I thought going to the two-furlong pole I was going to pick them up and do it quite easily, but then the greenness kicked in and I had to get after him.” The first foal out of the Listed-placed Rhea (GB) (Siyouni {Fr}), Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum's homebred Zeus Olympios should certainly improve for the experience and he couldn't be in better hands with Burke, who is ticking along nicely at a 31% strike rate since the turn of the year, having saddled nine winners from 29 runners at the time of writing. Look at him go! Rebel's Gamble is very impressive for @CliffordleexLee and @karl_burke at @NewcastleRaces, making it two wins from as many starts… pic.twitter.com/Wmq55aygpx — At The Races (@AtTheRaces) January 23, 2025 No Stopping Night Of Thunder It's been a similarly blistering start to 2025 for Darley's Night Of Thunder, who has fired in a hat-trick of new three-year-old winners since the last installment of Winter Watch, in which his Purple Rainbow (GB) earned a very favourable mention following her impressive success at Kempton on January 15. In addition to the win of Zeus Olympios, Night Of Thunder enjoyed an across-the-card double on Monday, as Dance In The Storm (GB) battled to victory in the seven-furlong fillies' novice at Wolverhampton, before Thunder Song (Ire) kicked off his career in style in the seven-furlong maiden at Dundalk. The Joseph O'Brien-trained Thunder Song probably didn't face much in the way of meaningful opposition on his debut, but there was plenty to like about the way he overcame greenness to run out a decisive winner, still looking full of running as he hit the line three lengths clear of his closest pursuer. Bred by James Hanly of Ballyhimikin Stud, Thunder Song is out of the winning Oasis Dream (GB) mare Song Maker (GB) who, in turn, is out of the G2 Cherry Hinton Stakes scorer Please Sing (GB) (Royal Applause {GB}). A 90,000gns purchase at Book 2 of the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale, before he was then withdrawn from the Arqana May Breeze-up Sale, this gelding most definitely finds himself in the shop window now, appealing as just the sort to interest overseas buyers. As for Jeff Smith's homebred Dance In The Storm, she's a half-sister to Dancing Star (GB) (Aqlaam {GB}) and Foxtrot Lady (GB) (Foxwedge {Aus}), both winners of the G3 Sceptre Fillies' Stakes at Doncaster. Incidentally, Dancing Star has done her own bit to contribute to Night Of Thunder's electric start to 2025 through her four-year-old son, Storm Star (GB), who has climbed to a BHA rating of 95 following back-to-back wins over a mile at Newcastle. Storm Star is the fourth generation of this family to have been bred by Smith at his Littleton Stud, after his purchase of Peckitts Well (GB) (Lochnager (GB}) around four decades ago. Her first foal was the remarkable Lochsong (GB) (Song {GB}), the European champion sprinter of 1993 and 1994, and she went on to produce another winner of the G1 Nunthorpe Stakes in Lochangel (GB) (Night Shift), the grandam of Dance In The Storm and great grandam of Storm Star. The influence of Night Of Thunder can certainly be seen in Dance In The Storm who, like Storm Star, looks more of a miling type than many in her family. Fifth on her debut at Chelmsford back in November, she showed the benefit of that experience with an accomplished performance at Wolverhampton, albeit she was a shade keener than ideal through the first part of the race. Despite that she was able to save plenty for the finish, ultimately winning by a length and three-quarters, having dug deep to repel what looked a threatening challenge from the runner-up. It was a performance backed up by the clock–the overall time was at least 0.8 seconds faster than both divisions of the class 6 handicap which followed–and this filly is very much one to be positive about for a sire who can seemingly do no wrong at present. Nice performance! Dance In The Storm – a half-sister to Stewards' Cup winner Dancing Star – stamps her class on the race, defeating Dancing Colours under Callum Hutchinson! @AndrewBalding2 | @WolvesRaces pic.twitter.com/2qBIm329KU — At The Races (@AtTheRaces) January 27, 2025 Hello Zaman, Goodbye Rivals Another notable performance on the clock last week came from the James Tate-trained Hello Zaman (Ire), the winner of the first division of the six-furlong novice at Lingfield on Friday, in a time around 1.7 seconds faster than the second division won by Sweet Couture (Ire) (Dandy Man {Ire}). In addition, it was a whole second faster than the class 6 handicap which kicked off the card. The son of Hello Youmzain (Fr) was always to the fore in a race run at a solid pace, so it was testament to how well he maintained the gallop that his closing sectional of 11 seconds flat for the final furlong was the fastest of any horse in the field, skipping clear of the sole previous winner in the line-up, Miraculous (Ire) (Too Darn Hot {GB}), for a three-length success. A first winner for James Tate in the colours of Jaber Abdullah–who raced Hello Youmzain with great success before he was sold to Haras d'Etreham and Cambridge Stud–Hello Zaman was purchased for 40,000gns when offered by Mountain View Stud at Book 3 of the October Yearling Sale. He is the first foal out of the Listed-placed Dandy's Beano (Ire) (Dandy Man {Ire}) who, in turn, is out of a half-sister to the GII San Antonio Stakes scorer Blingo (Artie Schiller). Both that pedigree and the manner of his victory at Lingfield suggest we're dealing with an out-and-out sprinter in Hello Zaman, one who has always been held in high regard, according to his trainer. “I've always liked him a lot,” Tate told the Racing Post. “He had a few babyish niggles as a two-year-old, which is why he didn't appear until December, and he was very green on debut. Thankfully, he showed a bit more like what we think of him there.” Only fifth when making his first racecourse appearance at Southwell, Hello Zaman was clearly a sharper model with that outing under his belt and further progress should ensure that he develops into a smart sprint handicapper, at the very least. He's bolted up! Hello Zaman records impressive sectionals in the final furlong, scoring second time of asking for @CliffordleexLee and James Tate at @LingfieldPark… pic.twitter.com/2upW4VHtjv — At The Races (@AtTheRaces) January 24, 2025 Winners in Waiting Cupola (GB) Harry Angel (Ire)-Adorn (GB), by Kyllachy (GB) Cheveley Park Stud homebred Cupola, a half-sister to the G2 Richmond Stakes winner Saayerr (GB) (Acclamation {GB}) and G2 Flying Childers Stakes runner-up Ornate (GB) (Bahamian Bounty {GB}), came home with a wet sail to take third in the six-furlong novice won by Sweet Couture at Lingfield on Friday. Beaten just half a length at the line, she probably would have won had she not been left with so much ground to make up, albeit that was entirely self inflicted through a slow start and a lack of know-how when first asked for her effort. That experience won't have been lost on her and she can make amends before too long. Dancing Teapot (Ire), runner-up at Dundalk (November 22) since publication Padua (Ire), seventh at Kempton (December 4) since publication Marhaba Ghaiyyath (Ire), winner at Lingfield (December 3) since publication Safe Idea (GB), third at Wolverhampton (December 21) since publication Indian Springs (Ire) Spanish Voice (GB) Noble Horizon (GB) Dixieland Blues (GB) City Of God (Ire), winner at Southwell (January 17) since publication War And Love (GB), runner-up at Chelmsford (January 11) since publication The post Winter Watch: A Notable Anniversary appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Gulfstream Racing, a new mobile app and wagering experience, has been launched by Everi Holdings Inc. and 1/ST, it was announced Wednesday. The new Gulfstream Racing App is now available in the Apple App Store. Phase I of the app launch includes ticketing, dining reservations, promotions, race schedules and a 1/ST-designed in-app horse wagering experience to allow fans to place win, place and show bets. The app launched ahead of last weekend's GI Pegasus World Cup. In addition to Gulfstream Park, Everi and 1/ST will soon roll out a venue app for Santa Anita Park, including an expansion of the horse wagering and wallet funding experiences, as part of Phase II of this mobile deployment. “With 1/ST's experience in delivering world-class entertainment and wagering for horse racing fans, we felt it was a natural fit for Everi to help enhance the venue experience with additional mobile and funding capabilities,” said Darren Simmons, Everi's Executive Vice President and FinTech Business Leader. “Our ability to develop solutions for additional fan engagement, flexible enough to reach them wherever they are, is a key part of our combined strategy to enable seamless, mobile-first, self-service journeys, to meet fans at their preferred touchpoint.” “The collaboration between Everi and 1/ST is about delivering an intuitive, convenient and engaging experience for our fans, and is specially designed for those who are new to horse racing,” said Keith Johnson, President, 1/ST TECHNOLOGY. “The Gulfstream Racing App puts the picks of our horse racing experts readily into their hands with a simplified direct betting interface. It also includes ticketing, dining and key venue event highlights putting everything you need for a fun day at the track in one easy-to-use platform.” The post 1/ST Launches New Mobile App and Wagering Experience at Gulfstream appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association and the Jockeys' Guild agreed to a new scale of mount fees for jockeys who ride at New York Racing Association tracks, which will take effect Feb. 1.View the full article

Tyler Gaffalione was a clear winner Jan. 25 with three stakes victories, including two graded, on the blockbuster Pegasus World Cup (G1) 13-race program. The panel of racing experts voted Gaffalione Jockey of the Week for Jan. 20-26.View the full article

Tenma, racing under the Chu's Baoma Corp. banner, gives the couple a chance at possible Oaks glory in May when she enters the starting gate for the Feb. 2 Las Virgenes Stakes (G3) at Santa Anita Park.View the full article

The prize-money for the G3 Watership Down Stud Too Darn Hot Greenham Stakes at Newbury has been increased to £100,000 this year. Set for Saturday, Apr. 12, as part of the Dubai Duty Free Spring Trials meeting, the seven-furlong contest holds an illustrious roll of honour including Mill Reef, Paco Boy (Ire), Frankel (GB) and Kingman (GB). Sponsored by Watership Down Stud since 2019, the race will receive a £10,000 boost to the total prize fund in 2025. The renewal takes place three weeks prior to the first Classics of the season, the G1 Betfred 1000 and G1 Betfred 2000 Guineas, as opposed to the normal two-week gap. Darley sire Too Darn Hot has made a good start to his stallion career. Bred by Watership Down Stud and owned by Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, he has already sired Group 1 winners Hotazhell (GB) (Futurity Trophy), Fallen Angel (GB) (Irish 1000 Guineas/Moyglare Stud Stakes) and in Australia, Broadsiding (Aus) (Golden Rose, JJ Atkins, and Champagne Stakes). Simon Marsh, general manager of Watership Down Stud, said, “We are delighted to once again be sponsoring the G3 Too Darn Hot Greenham Stakes. We could not be happier with the way Too Darn Hot has started his stallion career being champion first-season sire in both the UK and Australia. We would like to thank all the breeders who have supported him, including those who are sending mares to him this year as he has an exceptional book for the 2025 season.” The post Prize-Money Increase For Watership Down Stud Too Darn Hot Greenham Stakes At Newbury appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

This could only happen to Brad Cox. He trained the best 2-year-old filly in the country last year as Eclipse Award winner Immersive (Nyquist) whipped everything she faced, including eight challengers in the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies. Earlier this year, she looked like the runaway leader among the fillies eyeing the GI Kentucky Oaks, but came down with a minor injury and will not be ready in time for the Oaks. For most other trainers that would have been a severe setback, losing out on a chance they may never get again. But not Cox. When it comes to 3-year-old fillies, he doesn't rebuild, he reloads. Even with Immersive on the sidelines, he still has a firm grip on the division. Even without Immersive, he trains the top two horses in our first 2025 installment of the TDN Kentucky Oaks Top 10, which is presented by Fasig-Tipton. Muhimma (Munnings) is three-for-three lifetime and has claimed the top sot. Right behind her is Cox-trainee Good Cheer (Medaglia d'Oro), who is undefeated in four starts and could be, as they say, “any kind.” Last week's action was topped by the Martha Washington Stakes at Oaklawn which was won by the Kenny McPeek-trained Take Charge Milady (Take Charge Indy), a comfortable 5 3/4-length winner. The race became easier when Her Laugh (Practical Joke), who was 2-1 on the morning line, had to be scratched. Trainer Whit Beckman said that the snowstorm that hit Louisiana, where she was based at the Fair Grounds, made shipping to Oaklawn too difficult. The new target for her is the Feb. 15 GII Rachel Alexandra at the Fair Grounds. It will be a relatively quiet weekend when it comes to preps for the Oaks. The seven-furlong GIII Forward Gal Stakes Saturday at Gulfstream and the GIII Las Virgenes S. Sunday at Santa Anita could shake things up some. Here's a look at the first installment of our Kentucky Oaks Top 10 for 2025: 1) MUHIMMA (Munnings–Princesa Carolina, by Tapit) 'TDN Rising Star' O-Shadwell Stable; B-Three Chimneys Farm, LLC (Ky); T-Brad Cox. Sale history: $700,000 yrl '23 KEESEP. Lifetime Record: GSW, 3-3-0-0, $279,460. Last Start: Won Dec. 7 GII Demoiselle Stakes. Kentucky Oaks Points: 10. Next Start: GIII Honeybee S, OP, Feb. 22 or GII Davona Dale S., GP, March 1 The Shadwell Stable-owned filly was a little late to get going last year and once she did she was lost in the massive shadow of stablemate Immersive. After she won a maiden by 7 1/4 lengths, picking up 'TDN Rising Star' status, she won an allowance by 5 1/2 lengths and then she won the GII Demoiselle by a length. It was her first start around two turns, but, despite the narrow winning margin, it was probably her best race as she improved 11 Beyer points to earn a 90. Cox said she will kick off her 3-year-old campaign at either Oaklawn or at Gulfstream. If this doesn't work out they can always try the grass as the dam's lone stakes win came on that surface. 2) GOOD CHEER (Medaglia d'Oro–Wedding Toast, by Street Sense) O/B-Godolphin (Ky); T-Brad Cox. Lifetime Record: GSW, 4-4-0-0, $457,630. Last Start: Won Nov. 30 GII Golden Rod Stakes. Kentucky Oaks Points 20. Next Start: GII Rachel Alexandra S., FG, Feb. 15 Consider Muhimma and Good Cheer 1 and 1A. They come from the same barn, are both undefeated, and both came onto the scene late, winning some important fall, post-Breeders' Cup races. Oh, and they both can run. Good Cheer's major wins came in the Rags To Riches S. and the GII Golden Rod S., which she won 2 1/2 lengths. She was very impressive when winning the Golden Rod over Quietside (Malibu Moon). “Her record really speaks for itself and the style in which she's won all of those races has been very impressive,” Cox said after the win. “She is another testament to Godolphin's program. She's handled everything we've done with her, so far, extremely well and I think we haven't seen her best yet.” 3) TENMA (Nyquist–Amagansett, by Tapit) O-Baoma Corp.; B-B Flay Thoroughbreds (Ky); T-Bob Baffert. Sales history: $200,000 yrl '23 KEESEP; $850,000 2yo '24 OBSAPR. Lifetime Record: GISW, 4-3-0-1, $369,000. Last Start: Won Dec. 7 GII Starlet Stakes. Kentucky Oaks Points: 13. Next Start: GIII Fasig-Tipton Las Virgenes, SA, Feb. 2 It's rare that a Bob Baffert-trained horse is overshadowed, but you don't hear a lot of hype about Tenma. That could be because she did not compete in the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies or because she was a poor third in the GII Oak Leaf S. But she put it together in the GII Starlet at Los Alamitos, another race that usually flies under the radar, last out. She won by 1 3/4 lengths that day and was facing off against some quality fillies. At 5-2, she wasn't even the favorite. That race was good enough to suggest that she is probably Baffert's best 3-year-old filly. Baffert is obviously getting her ready as she's had four sharp works already this year. Baffert told the Daily Racing Form that he skipped the Breeders' Cup because he wasn't confident that Tenma was ready for the sort of top effort she showed at Los Alamitos. It looks like she is back. Tenma | Benoit 4) SIMPLY JOKING (Practical Joke–Imply, by E Dubai) O-Grantley Acres, Ryan Conner and Berkels0813; B-Barlar, LLC (PA); T-D. Whitworth Beckman. Sales history: $65,000 yrl '23 KEESEP. Lifetime Record: MSW, 2-2-0-0, $153,000. Last Start: Won Jan. 18 Silverbulletday Stakes. Kentucky Oaks Points: 20. Next Start: TBD Trainer Whit Beckman showed a ton of confidence in this daughter of Practical Joke when starting off her career in a stakes races, the Letellier Memorial S., a six-furlong race at the Fair Grounds. Despite getting bumped at the start, he closed to win a by a neck. But could she go a distance? That question was answered in the one-mile-and-70-yards Fasig-Tipton Silverbulletday S. Leading early, she drew off in the stretch to win by 2 1/2 lengths over a sloppy racetrack. Because of the distance, it was an important test to pass and it was an impressive effort. “She came out of the Silverbulletday in great shape,” Beckman said. “She's possible for the Rachel Alexandra, but we're still finalizing plans for her.” At some point, she may need to prove that she can sit off horses, but for now her early speed is a definite weapon. 5) TAKE CHARGE MILADY (Take Charge Indy–Price Too High, by Scat Daddy) O-James Ball, Magdalena Racing (Sherri McPeek) & Kenneth Rhodes; B-Merriebelle Stable, LLC (Ky); T-Kenneth McPeek. Sales history: $60,000 yrl '23 KEESEP. Lifetime Record: SW, 4-2-1-0, $259,594. Last Start: Won Jan. 25 Martha Washington Stakes. Kentucky Oaks Points: 20. Next Start: GIII Honeybee S, OP, Feb. 22 Can Kenny McPeek win the GI Kentucky Oaks in back-to-back years? Take Charge Milady may not be another Thorpedo Anna (Fast Anna), but she won last Saturday's Martha Washington S. at Oaklawn in her stakes debut and she could continue to have success on the Road to the Kentucky Oaks. She's following a familiar McPeek form cycle. She didn't do much running when sixth in her debut, but has slowly progressed in every race since and is now a stakes winner. “Gosh, she was impressive,” McPeek said of the Martha Washington. “The Honeybee is the logical next step for her. After that either the Fantasy or the Ashland. She's the spitting image of Take Charge Lady. It's the funniest thing. And she's by a son of Take Charge Lady. We've always been really impressed with her. She missed most of her 2-year-old year due to a small issue.” 6) QUIETSIDE (Malibu Moon–Benner Island, by Speightstown) 'TDN Rising Star' O/B-Shortleaf Stable (Ky); T-John Ortiz. Lifetime Record: MGISP, 5-1-3-1, $312,200. Last Start: Second in Jan. 25 Martha Washington Stakes. Kentucky Oaks Points: 18. Next Start: GIII Honeybee S, OP, Feb. 22 or GII Fantasy, March 29, OP If you like consistent horses who always go out and pick up checks, then Quietside is a horse for you. She's only won once, in her first career start, winning a maiden at Saratoga by 6 1/4 lengths. She hasn't visited the winner's circle since, but, as a 2-year-old, she finished second or third in the GI Spinaway S., the GI Alcibiades S. and the GII Golden Rod S. In the Spinaway and Alcibiades she lost to eventual Eclipse Award winner Immersive. She picked up right where she left off in her 2025 debut, finishing second in the Martha Washington S. behind Take Charge Milady. The problem is that it appears that she's no better than fourth or fifth in the division, so what will it take for her to rise to the top? Trainer John Ortiz said either the Honeybee or the Fantasy will be next. 7) LOOK FORWARD (Bolt d'Oro–Troublesome, by Into Mischief) O-Reddam Racing; B-Woods Edge Farm & Ballyfair Bloodstock (Ky); T-Michael McCarthy. Sales history: $285,000 yrl '23 KEESEP. Lifetime Record: 3-2-1-0, $132,400. Last Start: Won Jan. 5 Santa Ynez Stakes. Kentucky Oaks Points: 15. Next Start: TBD No doubt a talented horse, this filly trained by Michael McCarthy used her speed to win the seven-furlong Fasig-Tipton Santa Ynez last out at Santa Anita. In her prior start, she faded in the stretch to finish second in the mile-and-a-sixteenth GII Starlet S. at Los Alamitos. All of which raises the question as to whether or not she can get the nine furlongs in the Oaks? “She'll be headed to Oaklawn,” trainer Michael McCarthy said. “Not sure I'm all that worried about nine furlongs just yet. I think the deep Santa Anita surface just wasn't to her liking and she was classy enough to get the job done [in the Santa Ynez].” If she can win around two turns at Oaklawn, she'll immediately become one of the favorites for the Oaks. Look Forward | Benoit 8) RUNNING AWAY (Gun Runner–Allez Marie, by Unbridled's Song) O/B-Stud TNT; T-Wesley Ward. Lifetime Record: SW, 4-2-1-1, $166,875. Last Start: Won the Jan. 18 Busanda Stakes. Kentucky Oaks Points: 20. Next Start: GI Ashland Stakes, Kee, April 4. This is not your typical Wesley Ward-trained horse. The daughter of Gun Runner was nowhere to be found back in April at Keeneland, when they were running their 2-year-old races. She didn't debut until July at Saratoga and has never run in a race shorter than a mile. No one will care about that if she continues on her winning ways. After breaking her maiden in November, she picked up her first stakes win in the Jan. 18 Busanda S. at Aqueduct. Clearly, she didn't face a very tough field in the Busanda, but she did everything right, winning by 2 1/4 lengths in wire-to-wire fashion. She will face a much bigger test next time out in the GI Ashland S. at Keeneland. 9) SCOTTISH LASSIE (McKinzie–Bodebabe, by Bodemeister) O-Sportsmen Stable, Parkland Thoroughbreds, Photos Finish LLC, Corms Racing Stable & Jorge R. Abreu; B-Winchester Farm (Ky); T-Jorge Abreu. Sales history: $50,000 yrl '23 KEESEP; $85,000 2yo '24 OBSMAR. Lifetime Record: GISW, 3-1-0-1, $332,000. Last Start: Fourth in the Nov. 1 GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies. Kentucky Oaks Points: 16. Next Start: TBD This daughter of McKinzie has been out of sight and out of mind. She has not raced since finishing fourth in the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies and has not had a work since. That means she has a lot of catching up to do. But she's got the ability, which she proved when romping in the GI Frizette by nine lengths. The hope is that she is not a one-race wonder. 10) CHASTEN (Into Mischief–Lockdown, by First Defence) O/B-Juddmonte (Ky); T-Brad Cox. Lifetime Record: 2-1-0-0, $75,000. Last Start: Fourth in the Jan. 18 Silverbulletday Stakes. Kentucky Oaks Points: 4. Next Start: TBD If not for her pedigree, Chasten never would have made this list. She won her debut in November at Churchill, but the time for the seven furlongs was a slow 1:23.26 and she got a Beyer figure of just 68. Still another Brad Cox-trainee, she didn't show a whole lot next out when she finished fourth in the Fasig-Tipton Silverbulletday. But isn't it too early to give up on a half-sister to Idiomatic (Curlin)? By way of comparison, Idiomatic was not at all precocious either. She didn't make her first start until she was three and didn't win a graded stakes until her eighth career start. She turned into a two-time Eclipse Award winner, but just needed time to develop. Could that be the same case with her little sister? Maybe. But she can't waste much time as she is pretty far behind the top members of the division at this point. At the very least, keep any eye on her. Chasten | Coady Media The post The Kentucky Oaks TDN Top 10 for Jan. 30: Cox Reloads appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article