Wandering Eyes

3rd-Keeneland, $108,925, Msw, 4-9, 3yo/up, 6f, 1:11.45, ft, 1/2 length. DR. PARK (c, 4, Uncle Mo–Queen Caroline {MSW, $401,608}, by Blame) debuted in California for then-trainer John Shirreffs, weakening to fourth in a 6 1/2-furlong sprint Jan. 25. Shipping to Keeneland under new direction from Peter Eurton, the half-brother to 2-year-old champion Forte (Violence) drew outside as one of the more inexperienced runners in the scratched-down field of six. Lacking much early foot, the 3-5 favorite was outrun in the opening furlong by a trio of runners to his inside and that three quickly went on with it in a three-wide calvary charge up the backstretch. Racing alone and outside behind that wall of runners, Dr. Park was patiently handled by a confident Flavien Prat and began to pick up th bridle midway around the far turn, eating into the advantage of the leaders. Kept outside with a head of steam off the far turn, the favorite looked to run away with things but had to put away a pesky filly along the rail in Chaching Chaching (Munnings) who made him work for a half-length graduation. Resolute Racing's John Stewart purchased Queen Caroline, who was reported in foal to Flightline, for $3,000,000 out of FTKNOV in 2023 after Forte's 3-year-old season. She has that Flightline yearling filly on the ground and reported a Tapit filly this season. Sales History: $850,000 Ylg '22 KEESEP. Lifetime Record: 2-1-0-0, $70,948. Click for the Equibase.com chart or VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. O-C R K Stable LLC; B-South Gate Farm (KY); T-Peter Eurton. Dr. Park breaks his maiden in R3 at Keeneland as the 3/5 favorite for trainer Peter Eurton with Flavien Prat in the irons! TwinSpiresReplay pic.twitter.com/sG9t5MAO1Z — TwinSpires Racing (@TwinSpires) April 9, 2025 The post Dr. Park, Half To Forte, Graduates Second Time Out At Keeneland appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Vendors found the going tough at the lower end of the market at the Osarus Breeze-Up Sale on Wednesday where, from just 32 horses offered, 22 were sold at a clearance rate of 68%. The top lot, a €37,000 City Light (Fr) filly that sold to trainer Nicolas Perret, was consigned by 25-year-old handler Quentin Moulin, who described himself as happy with the result in what was a “demanding market”. “The filly is a beautiful horse-a model designed for speed,” Moulin said. “She came to work very quickly and was diligent in her preparation for today's exercise.” The City Light filly was one of three horses the young consignor brought to the Osarus Breeze-Up Sale. He failed to sell a colt [lot 32] by the stallion but managed to sell a filly by Donjuan Triumphant (Ire) for €17,000 to Maxime Cesandri. Overall, the sale aggregate stood at €274,500, which represented a massive drop from the €726,850 achieved last year when there were over twice as many horses [73] catalogued. The average for Wednesday's sale stood at €12,778 while the median was €10,000. Moulin said, “I consider myself happy with my sales because the market has not been so generous for everyone. I am extremely grateful to my team who did an exceptional job on the horses in order to bring them to this sale in magnificent condition. I have no doubt that this has greatly helped us to face an extremely demanding market.” He added, “The City Light filly sold at a price that I think is in line with her value but the colt is still on the market. We are a young stable-only three years active and based in Commeaux, Normandy. We have just one more horse to sell this year, a Hello Youmzain (Fr) filly who will go to Arqana in July and we mostly do a lot of pre-training and breaking. We are pleased with today.” The post Young Consignor Moulin Tops Osarus Breeze-Up Sale With City Light Filly appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Carmouche joined the 4,000 career-win club when he guided Crimson Light to a half-length win on April 5 at Aqueduct. The milestone led the panel of racing experts to unanimously vote Carmouche Jockey of the Week for March 31-April 6.View the full article

Brad Cox trainees Final Gambit and Good Cheer took to the Churchill Downs track April 9 to record five-furlong breezes.View the full article

The April 12 Jenny Wiley Stakes (G1T) at Keeneland does not have the word international in its title, but it might as well. Three of the favorites in the nine-horse, 1 1/16-mile turf race have raced exclusively overseas.View the full article

Juddmonte's 'TDN Rising Star' Cosmic Year (GB) (Kingman {GB}) was rerouted from potential turf engagements in favour of Wednesday's Unibet Novice Stakes at Kempton and could not have been more impressive in retaining his perfect record with a five-length triumph, racing under a seven-pound penalty, in the seven-furlong contest. The Harry Charlton trainee went off as the 2-9 favourite and was swiftly into stride, despite receiving bumps from both neighbours at the break, to track a modest pace in third through halfway. Inching closer once into the home straight, he powered to the fore approaching the final furlong and quickened clear under minimal urging in the closing stages to easily outlass Hit Squad (Ire) (Kameko) by daylight. The winner remains a general 8-1 chance for next month's G1 2000 Guineas. “We knew, looking at the race, there was no pace and the performance is as much as we could have hoped for,” said Charlton. “He's exceptionally laid back at home and I said to Oisin [Murphy] to teach him something in the final furlong. He wouldn't want to run on fast ground [going] up and down in those dips [at Newmarket], so we'll have to discuss plans with the Juddmonte team and Prince's family as they have a few horses in the mix. The weather will change at some point, we're in England, but if it went like this through this month it feels like a tough ask. The French Guineas and the Irish Guineas are options and there are different routes into [Royal] Ascot, so we'll see.” Cosmic Year is the 12th of 13 live foals and eighth scorer out of G1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud heroine Passage Of Time (GB) (Dansili {GB}), herself a full-sister to G2 King Edward VII Stakes-winning sire Father Time (GB) and a half to G1 Falmouth Stakes victrix Timepiece (GB) (Zamindar). The February-foaled homebred is kin to dual Group 2-winning sire Time Test (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}), who placed three times at the highest level, dual Group 3 winner Tempus (GB) (Kingman {GB}) and to the dam of G3 Princess Royal Stakes victrix Time Lock (GB) (Frankel {GB}). Passage Of Time has the 2-year-old filly Start Of Time (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}) to come. Leading 2000 Guineas contender Cosmic Year makes it 2-2@oismurphy | @HarryJCharlton | @JuddmonteFarms | @kemptonparkrace pic.twitter.com/zFnPhMRVYa — Racing TV (@RacingTV) April 9, 2025 The post Juddmonte’s TDN Rising Star Cosmic Year Back With a Bang at Kempton appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Trainer Ian Wilkes enjoyed a banner day Tuesday, winning both of Keeneland's Grade I features–the Toyota Blue Grass with Burnham Square (Liam's Map) in addition to Positano Sunset's (Goldencents) score in the Resolute Racing Madison. “Both horses got back last night to Churchill,” Wilkes said Wednesday morning from his main base in Louisville. “Everything is all good. It was a really exciting day for everyone involved.” Whitham Thoroughbreds' Burnham Square got up in the last stride to edge East Avenue by a nose in the 1 1/8-mile Blue Grass. “I joked with Carl [Nafzger] and said I'm one up on him in the Blue Grass,” said Wilkes, who worked for Nafzger when he won the Kentucky Derby with Unbridled and Street Sense. Both horses were defeated in the Blue Grass in their final preps before the Derby. In the seven-furlong Resolute Racing Madison, 14-1 longshot Positano Sunset posted a 1-length victory over favored Emery. Owned by the partnership of Six Column Stables, Randall Bloch, John Seiler and David Hall, Positano Sunset possibly could make her next start in the May 3 GI Derby City Distaff going 7 furlongs at Churchill Downs. Although he did not bring home the top prize, trainer Brendan Walsh was thrilled with the runner-up effort turned in by Godolphin's East Avenue in the nine furlong Classic prep. “He's doing well this morning,” Walsh said of East Avenue. “He ran a great race. Those horses came to him and he fought back, and that's what we wanted to see.” The post Blue Grass Winner Burnham Square Makes Quick Return to Churchill, East Avenue ‘Doing Well’ appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

If you're among the many currently absorbed by his autobiography, you'll be indebted to Arthur Hancock for sharing a series of Charlie Whittingham maxims. And one is of particular value to anyone routinely assessing pedigrees: “Never say anything bad about a horse until he's been dead at least 10 years.” Plenty will have been sorely tempted to disregard that stricture in the case of Authentic, after the 2020 Horse of the Year fell so far short of his billing with his first juveniles last year. Retired at $75,000, much the highest of his intake, the son of Into Mischief started with 229 mares and the resulting yearlings were received with the habitual docility of those managing other people's money, who almost invariably replicate fee rank in the first-crop sale averages. Authentic duly dominated that table at $286,076, and his “bubble” book last spring held solid at 196. Well, people weren't quite so keen by the time his second crop reached the ring. Despite a class-high 92 starters, Authentic's juveniles mustered a single black-type success (at Albuquerque) among 24 winners overall. As a result, the median cost of his second crop ($65,000) didn't even cover their conception fee ($70,000). It was all pretty excruciating. But he's managed by the same team that made his own sire, who know far too much about the game to be burying their heads in the sand. Having given Authentic a couple of routine trims, to $60,000 and then $50,000, this spring they made no bones about his predicament. Initially halved to $25,000, Authentic found himself among the many Kentucky stallions given an additional cut as cold headwinds hit the market. He's now advertised at $15,000. But let's not forget that Authentic was himself a later developer. (Indeed, the Tiz the Law camp might wonder whether a controversial rescheduling of the 2020 Kentucky Derby allowed this May 5 foal to retrieve a deficit in precocity.) Perhaps his stock is matching that template. No freshman, after all, beat his 15 scorers round a second turn. And now, for those who have kept the faith, a sunbeam has suddenly broken through the clouds. A Derby winner at the first attempt would certainly cover a multitude of sins, and the GII Wood Memorial success of Rodriguez showed a May 20 foal now progressing rapidly towards the cream of the crop. In fairness, Rodriguez can also draw on potent genes in his own family. His fourth dam is the classy runner and producer Race the Wild Wind (Sunny's Halo), who rounded off her career winning the GI Santa Maria Handicap and was sold for $700,000 at the 1997 Keeneland November Sale. The Nureyev colt she was carrying that day turned out to be G1 Prix Maurice de Gheest winner King Charlemagne, whose debut second proved his sole defeat in six starts. In the meantime his brother had been sold to Shadwell as a yearling, and he too would prove very able on turf: Meshaheer was a particularly fast juvenile, beaten half a length at Royal Ascot before winning a Group sprint (added a Group 2 at five). But their dam's legacy had already been secured through two fillies bred by Brandon and Marianne Chase before her sale. From Chasetheragingwind (Dayjur) they bred GI Forego Stakes winner Here Comes Ben (Street Cry {Ire}), as well as Gottahaveadream (Indian Charlie), subsequently dam of GI Frizette winner Dayoutoftheoffice (Into Mischief); while from Chasethewildwind (Forty Niner) they bred Grade I winners Albertus Maximus (Albert the Great) and Daredevil (More Than Ready). That pair's half-sister by Touch Gold, Chasethegold, meanwhile accentuated the family's turf streak as runner-up in the GIII Senator Ken Maddy Handicap; and later her daughter by Political Force managed second in the GII Golden Rod Stakes, a rare distinction for that sire. While her other foals proved modest, a daughter by Cherokee Run named Cayala (sole win in a five-way photo for a turf sprint maiden) became one of the earliest to confirm Into Mischief's ability to upgrade mares. Her first foal, One Liner, won the GIII Southwest Stakes, prompting breeders Kingswood Stud and David Egan (who had bought the mare for just 17,000gns at Tattersalls) to persevere with Into Mischief as his fee climbed. They were rewarded with yearlings that made $550,000 and $600,000, the latter becoming dual sprint stakes winner Provocateur. Her 2022 foal, by Into Mischief's rookie son Authentic, brought $485,000 at the September Sale. His name, of course, is Rodriguez. Whether he can stretch his speed another furlong can't be guaranteed: close relative Provocateur was a sprinter, and the family's best have tended to be dirt milers or turf sprinters. Nor do I know whether he was named for the Rodriguez featured in Searching For Sugar Man. No spoilers, if so, because there's a real twist in that classic documentary. Suffice to say that it confirms Whittingham's warning against consigning anyone to history-horse or human-while they still have the means of coming back and proving you wrong. Sunny Side of the Square Brandon and Marianne Chase were still enjoying the rise of Race the Wild Wind when deciding to buy a yearling by the same sire. Irgun cost just $28,000, but you'll find him down there below Rodriguez in the Wood Memorial roll of honor (1994). He ran Go for Gin off his feet that day, but had to miss the Derby and actually made his only subsequent start as a 5-year-old. Nor could Irgun redeem that disappointment at stud, but his brilliance in the Wood had evidently made an impression on the Whitham family. For he was out of a Secretariat mare, and the following spring they sent one of their own to Sunny's Halo. Listen Well had only won a maiden in a light career but as daughter of a graded stakes winner, and half-sister to two more, she had been bought by Frank Penn Jr. for $150,000 at the 1992 Keeneland November Sale. The cross duly paid off: Listen Well's daughter by Sunny's Halo, Beautiful Noise, matured into a rock-solid graded stakes operator on grass, never out of the first four in eight consecutive starts at that level, including a day in the sun in the GII Santa Ana Handicap. But Listen Well had more than one string to her bow. For a start, the Night Shift foal she had carried into the Keeneland ring turned out to be dual Grade I winner Listening. (Albeit her owners doubtless prized still higher a success in the GII Bayakoa Handicap in 1996, a race recently renamed for the champion they imported from Argentina). Moreover one of Listen Well's later daughters, Solar Echo (Spinning Well), was twice denied a Grade I (on grass) by no more than half-a-length. You can imagine how much it means to this exemplary program for a taproot investment in Listen Well to be producing dividends over three decades later. It must have been gratifying enough when Magical Lute (Maclean's Music), whose third dam is Listening, won a stakes at Prairie Meadows last summer. How much more thrilling, then, must be the dramatic GI Blue Grass Stakes of Burnham Square (Liam's Map)? For he is out of Beautiful Noise's daughter Linda (Scat Daddy), herself winner of the GII Mrs. Revere Handicap. Burnham Square duly represents a third consecutive generation of graded stakes success in the Whitham colors. True, the Derby ride will have to be its own reward: Burnham Square was castrated, and both his dam and two half-sisters have slipped into other hands. But then he might himself have been claimed on debut, when similarly flying down the Keeneland stretch last fall-albeit only if somebody had found adequate nerve at $150,000! However Burnham Square fares in the Derby, it's nice to celebrate anew the underdog winner of 1983. At stud Sunny's Halo hardly matched the influence of the previous Canadian-bred winner, albeit for a long time he held the earnings record in Texas. But two of his daughters united our two latest trial winners, as fourth dam of Rodriguez and granddam of Burnham Square. Words Words Words Whatever they have endured with Authentic, the Spendthrift team have found ample comfort in others who entered their barn at the same time. After winning the freshman title by a matter of cents, for instance, Vekoma has opened up on his rivals this spring: the exciting Colloquial's first black-type success, in the Lafayette Stakes at Keeneland, was already Vekoma's sixth of the year, among no fewer than 36 sophomore winners from 82 starters. But there was another Lafayette Stakes over the weekend, at Evangeline Downs, where Cool Cowboy followed up his debut success in emphatic fashion. That was a timely tonic for Thousand Words, whose flagbearer The Queens M G ended her career in the GII Gulfstream Park Oaks (won, incidentally, by Vekoma's daughter Five G) the previous weekend. The Queens M G, famously a $3,500 yearling, had lately added the GII Davona Dale to her black-type scores at Saratoga last summer. Remembering the Grade I placings of the still cheaper Vodka With a Twist, Thousand Words has fully earned his hike from $5,000 to $12,500 this spring. Cool Cowboy is his fourth sophomore to win a stakes, while his cumulative tally of five is behind only Vekoma on 10, and Complexity and Tiz the Law on six. The post Breeding Digest: An Authentic Ray of Hope appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Carmouche joined the 4,000 career-win club when he guided Crimson Light to a half-length win on April 5 at Aqueduct. The milestone led the panel of racing experts to unanimously vote Carmouche Jockey of the Week for March 31-April 6.View the full article

Prize money for the Coral-Eclipse Stakes (G1) has been boosted to £1 million (US$1,278,030) this year, making it the richest-ever race to be staged at Sandown.View the full article

Luxor Cafe, who qualified for the Kentucky Derby (G1) via a designated series in Japan, is scheduled to arrive April 23 at Churchill Downs, according to track publicist Kevin Kerstein.View the full article

Australian ace extends top form with three-timer, while David Eustace’s import romps home in the win of the night.View the full article

Trainer Brad Cox sent out GI Kentucky Derby contender Final Gambit (Not This Time) and likely GI Longines Kentucky Oaks favorite Good Cheer (Medaglia d'Oro) for their latest breezes at Churchill Downs. Juddmonte's Final Gambit, winner of the GIII Jeff Ruby Steaks, breezed five furlongs in 1:00.80 at 7:15 a.m. Godolphin's Good Cheer followed with a five-furlong move in 1:00.40 at 9 a.m. Both were piloted by Cox's exercise rider Edvin Vargas. Final Gambit began his work at the 4 1/2-furlong pole, covering an opening quarter-mile in :25.40. He galloped out six furlongs in 1:13.60 and seven furlongs in 1:27, according to Churchill Downs clocker John Nichols. Good Cheer went a touch quicker early, setting an opening quarter in :24.60. She galloped out six furlongs in 1:13.60 and 1:27.60 for seven furlongs. Cox, who was on-site for both moves, was set to fly to Payson Park, where GI Florida Derby winner Tappan Street (Into Mischief) is slated to work later this week. The post Classic Contenders Final Gambit, Good Cheer Head Wednesday’s Worktab at Churchill Downs 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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New York Times best-selling cookbook author and content creator Joshua Weissman has partnered with Churchill Downs to help fans create the ultimate at-home race day celebration for the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby. Drawing on his Southern roots and fun, approachable culinary style, Weissman has curated a race day menu of dishes that blend regional comfort food with bold flavors, perfect for celebrating 'Kentucky Derby At-Home.' “The tradition of The Kentucky Derby is unlike anything else, extending far beyond the racetrack, and I'm thrilled to help bring the spirit of the Derby to those watching from home this year,” Weissman said. “Preparing a spread for an event as legendary as the Derby can feel intimidating, but my goal with this menu was to craft a collection of approachable dishes that are both easy to make and also put a fresh take on classic race day favorites.” Weissman has assembled easy-to-enjoy snacks and bite-sized Derby-inspired dishes with a modern or unexpected twist. “Joshua's love for food, creativity in the kitchen and passion for entertaining his online audience make him the ideal partner to curate this year's 'Kentucky Derby At-Home' menu,” said Casey Ramage, Vice President of Marketing and Partnerships at Churchill Downs Racetrack. “The menu Joshua put together embodies the energy of the Kentucky Derby with adventurous takes on traditional offerings that will make any at-home celebration just as thrilling as the race itself.” For more information, including recipes and images for Weissman's at-home Derby menu, click here. The post Chef and Content Creator Joshua Weissman Partners with Churchill Downs to Bring ‘Kentucky Derby at Home’ appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Leopardstown's opening fillies' maiden on Wednesday has produced some luminaries in recent times and Robert Moran's Catalina Delcarpio (Ire) (Lope De Vega {Ire}) looks another as she surged to TDN Rising Stardom. Well-supported into 11-4 second favourite for the 10-furlong test, the Paddy Twomey-trained 400,000gns Tattersalls October Book 1 purchase tanked along in the hands of Billy Lee behind the leaders off the moderate pace. Full of running turning for home, the relative of the Oaks third High Heeled (Ire) (High Chaparral {Ire}) surged to the front upon command approaching the furlong pole and on to an emphatic 4 1/2-length success. The long-time leader Tswalu (Ire) (Justify) chased her home, with another half a length to Etawa (Ire) (Kingman {GB}) in third. This is the maiden won by Savethelastdance (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}), Above The Curve (American Pharoah) and Tarnawa (Ire) (Shamardal) in the last four years. “She was just ready to start, but finds everything easy and although she was plenty green coming here I thought she might have the class to carry her through,” Twomey said of Lope De Vega's 12th TDN Rising Star, with Carl Spackler (Ire) the pick so far. “I told the owner last week I would put her in the Oaks and then told him I wasn't going to as it was too soon in her development, so we'll see where we go. I have the Irish Oaks in mind for her.” Catalina Delcarpio (Lope De Vega) The 400,000gns bolts up on debut at @LeopardstownRC pic.twitter.com/NDUjbFWRaA — Racing TV (@RacingTV) April 9, 2025 Catalina Delcarpio's unraced dam Queen Guenevere (Ire) (Camelot {GB}), who has produced the Listed Prix Solitude winner Grand Stars (Ire) (Sea The Stars {Ire}), is a daughter of the GII San Clemente Handicap and GII San Gorgonio Handicap scorer Uncharted Haven (GB) (Turtle Island {Ire}) whose aforementioned daughter High Heeled captured the G3 St Simon Stakes as well as finishing third in Epsom's Classic and G1 Coronation Cup. Uncharted Haven's other black-type performer was High Chaparral's Listed Cairn Rouge Stakes winner Bella Estrella (Ire), who in turn produced Lope De Vega's G2 Champagne Stakes winner Iberian (Ire), while her daughter Faraday Light (Ire) (Rainbow Quest) is the dam of the G1 Irish 1,000 Guineas and GI E. P. Taylor Stakes heroine Just The Judge (Ire) (Lawman {Fr}). Also related to the GII Del Mar Mile winner and GI Woodbine Mile runner-up Ferneley (Ire) (Ishiguru), Queen Guenevere's 2-year-old filly Miss Scott (Ire) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}) was a 650,000gns purchase by The Thoroughbred Racing Corporation at Tattersalls October Book 1. Her yearling colt is by New Bay (GB). 1st-Leopardstown, €15,000, Mdn, 4-9, 3yo, 10fT, 2:10.96, gd. CATALINA DELCARPIO (IRE), f, 3, by Lope De Vega (Ire) 1st Dam: Queen Guenevere (Ire), by Camelot (GB) 2nd Dam: Uncharted Haven (GB), by Turtle Island (Ire) 3rd Dam: Tochar Ban, by Assert (Ire) (400,000gns Ylg '23 TATOCT). Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $9,863. O-Robert J W Moran; B-Ballylinch Stud & Ecurie des Charmes (IRE); T-Paddy Twomey. Click for the free Equineline.com catalogue-style pedigree. The post Robert Moran’s Catalina Delcarpio A New TDN Rising Star For Lope De Vega appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Mark Dobbin, the owner of high-class performers such as Ladies Church (GB) (Churchill {Ire}) and American Sonja (GB) (Tasleet {GB}), is set to significantly increase his involvement in the sport by investing €10 million in a redeveloped stud farm in County Kildare, the Irish Independent reported on Wednesday. Dobbin and his wife, Kerry native Sonja Dobbin, are said to have submitted a business plan to Kildare County Council which states that the owners have paid out €3.5 million for the 110-acre Friarstown Stables and intend to spend another €7.5 million to €8 million “to develop the farm into a high class stud facility”. The redevelopment is to include two new equine barns that will provide for 24 stable units in each, staff accommodation and a farm manager's house along with other elements. The plan adds, “In summary, Mark Dobbin will have invested a total of up to €10m in the stud farm, its development and related equine operations by the time the stud is completed. Additional investment is likely to follow if the stud achieves its near-term objectives.” The green and white-spotted silks of Dobbin, the founder and managing director of New York-based construction firm Highline Group, have become a familiar sight on Ireland's racecourses in recent years. The Johnny Murtagh-trained Ladies Church provided the owner with his most notable success to date when winning the G2 Sapphire Stakes at the Curragh in 2022, while American Sonja was a winner of last year's G3 Prix Allez France at Longchamp and later filled the runner-up spot in the G1 Prix Jean Romanet at Deauville. In total, Dobbin was represented by 10 different horses in Ireland in 2024, including four with Ger Lyons, three with Murtagh and another three with American Sonja's trainer Joseph O'Brien. The application states that Dobbin has “ambitious plans to invest in and support Irish racing”, with the services of Gaelic Bloodstock being enlisted to assist in identifying and sourcing top-quality fillies. “While Mark has been focused on racing horses, the plan for a sustainable breeding project has also been put in place in recent years,” it continues, with the primary source of income for the business set to come through “the breeding, raising and sale of high-quality bloodstock on behalf of its clients”. The post Mark Dobbin Ramps Up Racing and Breeding Interests with €10 Million Investment appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Coral-Eclipse Stakes, the highlight of Sandown's Flat season, will this year be run for a total prize fund of £1 million, making it the eighth race in Britain to offer prize-money into seven figures and the most valuable ever staged at the Surrey track. Last year's race carried prize-money of £750,000. Sandown Park, part of the Jockey Club's portfolio of racecourses, celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2025, a year which also sees Coral mark 50 years of sponsorship the Group 1 feature, making it the longest-running Group race sponsorship in the world. As part of the increased investment, and in a bid to increase international participation, the 2025 Coral-Eclipse will also include two wildcard entries for the winners of the Prix du Jockey Club and Prix de Diane, both run at Chantilly in June. “The Coral-Eclipse is one of the most prestigious Flat races in the world and we are incredibly proud of our long-standing association with the race,” said Coral PR director Simon Clare. “The prize-money increase to £1 million is another landmark moment for the race, a race which remains firmly at the forefront of the minds of leading trainers, owners and breeders, and which continues to stand the test of time.” First run in 1886, the 10f Coral-Eclipse Stakes is Britain's first major all-aged Group 1 of the season and has a roll of honour stretching back to Isinglass (GB), Mill Reef, Sadler's Wells and Dancing Brave, and which includes more recently Sea The Stars (Ire), Golden Horn (GB) and Enable (GB). Last year's winner City Of Troy shared the top spot in the 2024 Longines World's Best Racehorse Rankings. His trainer Aidan O'Brien, who has won the race a record eight times, said, “The Coral-Eclipse is the first time in the season when three-year-olds meet older horses over a mile and a quarter, it's a very informative race for the rest of the season going forward. It's always a very hard race to win, it's very important to any horse that wins it – either a colt or a filly.” The late Aga Khan IV was the owner-breeder of the most recent French-trained winner of the race in Vadeni (Fr). Nemone Routh, director and French racing manager for the Aga Khan Studs, said, “After Vadeni's easy five-length win in the Prix du Jockey Club, the Coral-Eclipse felt like a natural next step. “The prize-money is certainly attractive, the timing and distance are ideal, and the race offers to a top French three-year-old, or older horse, the chance to prove their potential on an international stage against elite horses. “We had a great experience [in 2022], which was enhanced by Vadeni's brilliant performance against a field comprising of only Group 1 winners. It allowed his talent to be shown to a wider, international audience which helped his stallion career once he was retired to stud. “The availability of a wild-card entry would certainly make the process easier and encourage connections of French trained runners to consider this prestigious race.” The Eclipse joins the Derby (£1.5m), King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes (£1.5m), Qipco Champion Stakes (£1.3m), Juddmonte International Stakes (£1.25m), Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (£1.1m), Prince of Wales's Stakes (£1m) and the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes (£1m) on the list of British Group 1 races to be run for seven figures in 2025. France's Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe remains Europe's most valuable race with total prize-money of €5 million, while in Ireland, the Irish Derby and Irish Champion Stakes each have a purse of €1.25 million. This year's Coral-Eclipse Stakes takes place on Saturday, July 5. Entries close on May 6, with a supplementary entry stage on June 30. The post Eclipse Prize-Money Boosted to £1m appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Goliath (Ger) (Adlerflug {Ger}), the fourth highest-rated horse in the world in 2024, will spearhead the European challenge on FWD Champions Day at Sha Tin on Sunday, April 27, with a record HK$74 million (£7.4m) on offer across three Group 1 races. Goliath will add a fourth jurisdiction to his record as Resolute Racing's globetrotter lines up in the HK$28 million (£2.8m) G1 FWD QEII Cup. Trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, the five-year-old made the breakthrough at the top level when winning last year's King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot, beating the subsequent G1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe heroine Bluestocking (GB) (Camelot {GB}) by two and a quarter lengths. Meanwhile, William Haggas is set to saddle two runners on the card in Dubai Honour (Ire) (Pride Of Dubai {Aus}) and Lake Forest (GB) (No Nay Never). Dubai Honour will be making his fifth trip to Hong Kong, with his previous efforts at Sha Tin including a third-place finish in the 2023 QEII Cup and second in December's G1 Hong Kong Vase. Last seen winning the G1 Tancred Stakes at Rosehill earlier this month, Dubai Honour is due to make his next appearance in Saturday's G1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Royal Randwick, while the HK$24 million (£2.4m) G1 FWD Champions Mile is the next port of call for Lake Forest, who won the A$10 million Golden Eagle at Rosehill on his most recent start. The European trio will face competition from Japan, Australia, New Zealand and Bahrain, as well as a strong local Hong Kong challenge. Liberty Island (Jpn) (Duramente {Jpn}), Prognosis (Jpn) (Deep Impact {Jpn}) and Tastiera (Jpn) (Satono Crown {Jpn}) feature in a three-strong challenge from Japan in the QEII Cup. Prognosis filled the runner-up spot behind Romantic Warrior (Ire) (Acclamation {GB}) in last year's renewal, while Liberty Island and Tastiera finished second and third, respectively, behind the same horse in December's G1 Hong Kong Cup. El Vencedor (NZ) (Shocking {Aus}), a four-time Group 1 winner in New Zealand, is set to make his first appearance on the international stage, while the recent Hong Kong Derby winner, Cap Ferrat (Aus) (Snitzel {Aus}), heads the seven local Hong Kong entries. In the FWD Champions Mile, defending champion Beauty Eternal (Aus) (Starspangledbanner {Aus}), four-time Hong Kong Group 1 winner Voyage Bubble (Aus) (Deep Field {Aus}) and Hong Kong Derby runner-up My Wish (Aus) (Flying Artie {Aus} all feature in a formidable home team. Mr Brightside (NZ) (Bullbars {Aus}), a nine-time Group 1 winner in Australia, is likely to be another leading contender, along with Royal Patronage (Fr) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), who is set to join him on the journey from down under after being beaten just a short head on his most recent start in the G1 Doncaster Mile. David Hayes's sprinting sensation Ka Ying Rising (NZ) (Shamexpress {NZ})–Sha Tin's current 1,200-metre track record holder–chases a fourth Group 1 success in the HK$22 million (£2.2m) Chairman's Sprint Prize. Victory there would see him secure the HK$5 million Speed Series bonus after his wins in the first two legs of the three-race challenge in 2025; the G1 Centenary Sprint Cup and G1 Queen's Silver Jubilee Cup. The last two winners of the Chairman's Sprint Prize, Lucky Sweynesse (NZ) (Sweynesse {Aus}) and Invincible Sage (Aus) (Thronum {Aus}), will be among those standing in Ka Ying Rising's way, along with a Japanese quartet led by Group 1 winners Satono Reve (Jpn) (Lord Kanaloa {Jpn}) and Lugal (Jpn) (Duramente {Jpn}). Andrew Harding, Executive Director, Racing, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, said, “FWD Champions Day is one of the preeminent fixtures on world racing's calendar. We are delighted to have world-class representation from overseas and Hong Kong at our spring flagship meeting. With 16 visitors from around the world, including Mr Brightside and Goliath, the might of Hong Kong's team will be tested across the three Group 1 features. “From Hong Kong's perspective, we can't wait to see Ka Ying Rising step out. David Hayes's exceptional sprinter has won his last 11 races, and adds an increasing layer of excitement this year, while Voyage Bubble has emerged and officially stamped his claim as our premier miler and middle-distance galloper–especially in Romantic Warrior's absence in 2025. FWD Champions Day is firmly established as one of world's premier racing events and this year promises to be no exception.” The post Goliath Leads European Challenge on FWD Champions Day appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Brigette Solomon Junior driver Kristina Denifostova scored her first winning driving double during a “hectic” day at Manawatu yesterday. Both her wins with Lewey Maguire and La Miki were trained by her employers Steve and Amanda Telfer. “I am so happy, it was a huge opportunity for me to come down to Palmerston North and look after the horses over the past 10 days and to drive the team at the races,” said Denifostova. “The two horses that won are some of my favourites in the stable and it was especially rewarding to win on La Miki as I’ve been driving her since she had her first fast work as a young horse, we’ve come a long way together.” Denifostova’s first win came by way of Lewey Maguire in the Te Kawau Mobile Pace over 2000 metres. From barrier two the Sweet Lou gelding settled in the trail following Leo Lincoln who set a strong pace in the early stages. Denifostova was content to sit in behind the leader and upon straightening took the passing lane and capitalised on Lewey Maguire’s easy trip to get up and win by half a head over Leo Lincoln. “That was the perfect trip that he needed, he’d raced ok the last couple of starts but been a bit unlucky ending up a bit too far back and having too much ground to make up,” In the last event of the day, La Miki scored her maiden win in the Braig Mobile Pace, sharing the honours in a dead heat with the Murray Gibbs-trained Bet On Polly. “I was so happy with her after finishing second at her last two starts here,” said Denifostova, “she really deserved the win.” Denifostova dropped La Miki to the rear of the field after starting from a wide barrier, and Jetasi set a cracking pace in front resulting in the field being strung out in single file over the first lap. When coming into the final lap, La Miki joined the back of the one wide line and Denifostova patiently waited until the 600 metre mark to make her move three wide. Upon entering the home straight, La Miki fought on gamely to level with leaders, and both Bet On Polly and La Miki hit the line in unison. As well as her two winners, Denifostova also had two third placings on drives she picked up just hours before the meeting due to the flight from Auckland carrying drivers Sailesh Abernethy, Kate Coppins, and Harrison Orange being diverted back to Auckland. “I’ve never been so busy in my life, it was very hectic!” said Denifostova, “luckily Malcolm Little who was here looking after the team with me had everything organized and the horses geared up and ready to go.” As well as being her first driving double, the wins were Denifostova’s first for the season. “I’ve been working really hard watching a lot of racing and replays and trying to make good decisions when I’m driving,” said Denifostova. “I’m very grateful to Steve for giving me these driving opportunities and even sending me away with the horses on this trip, It’s a big responsibility and I’ve really enjoyed it, It’s been great to meet other people and everyone here at Manawatu has been so welcoming and helpful.” View the full article

What 2025 Queen Elizabeth Stakes Where Royal Randwick Racecourse – Sydney, NSW When Saturday, April 12, 2025 Prizemoney $5,000,000 Distance 2000m Conditions Group 1, WFA 2024 winner Pride Of Jenni (3) | T: Ciaron Maher | J: Declan Bates (57kg) Visit Dabble The time-honoured Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) headlines the action for Day 2 of The Championships at Randwick on Saturday afternoon, with a quality field of 15 set to line up in the $5 million weight-for-age classic. An astonishing 12 of the 15 runners engaged have secured Group 1 glory in the past, including the eight-time Group 1 winning mare Via Sistina, who has been the long-standing favourite with horse racing bookmakers as she attempts to rectify her runner-up finish in last year’s edition. Can Via add another Group 1 success to the CV? Or is there an upset brewing in the 2025 Queen Elizabeth Stakes? 2025 Queen Elizabeth Stakes odds Via Sistina was quickly installed as the after drawing barrier one on Tuesday morning. Dubai Honour is on the second line of betting at and is the only other runner in single figures as online betting sites have this race pegged as a two-horse affair. The trio of Rousham Park, Ceolwulf and Buckaroo all represent good value at the , while the Ciaron Maher-trained pair of Light Infantry Man ($16) and Middle Earth ($34) have garnered some early support in betting as they make the trip north from Victoria. Tom Kitten ($26), Vauban ($26), Fawkner Park ($26) and Deny Knowledge ($26) all have claims at the big odds; however, they have been relatively friendless in betting since markets opened on Tuesday. 2025 Queen Elizabeth Stakes speed map Punters can expect a genuine tempo in this year’s edition of the Queen Elzabeth Stakes; however, it should be nothing like when Pride Of Jenni broke their hearts 12 months ago. Yulong pair of Full Count Felicia (4) and Deny Knowledge (10) should be vying for the lead in the early stages, while Lindermann (7) can drag across to make a line of three before they sort the order out. Expect James McDonald to utilise gate one aboard Via Sistina and hold a mid-field position with cover, while Buckaroo (3) and Tom Kitten (5) can sit handy to the speed as well. Dubai Honour (13) is likely to press forward and search for cover, while Japanese-raider Rousham Park may be forced back under Christophe Lemaire from the awkward draw (12). Geoglyph (2) will be much closer this time as he backs up from the Doncaster Mile last Saturday, while the likes of Ceolwulf (15), Light Infantry Man (11) and Vauban (14) have critical decisions to make early as to whether or not they press forward or drag back for cover. Continue reading for HorseBetting’s top selections and $100 betting strategy for the 2025 Queen Elizabeth Stakes. Queen Elizabeth Stakes 2025 preview & form Buckaroo is a terrific each-way play in the 2025 Queen Elizabeth Stakes and appears to be the forgotten runner at the . He was sensational first-up in a slowly run edition of the Group 1 George Ryder Stakes (1500m) on March 22, finishing on the heels of eventual Group 1 Doncaster Mile (1600m) winner Stefi Magnetica, as Gringotts got the perfect run in transit to claim victory. His Group 1 Underwood Stakes (1800m) win in the spring was followed up by a ding-dong go in the Group 1 Turnbull Stakes (2000m), where the Fastnet Rock gelding was beaten by less than a half-length by stable companion Via Sistina. He boasts a strong second-up record of six starts for two wins and two minor placings in the past, and with Buckaroo set to gain the run of the race under Tommy Berry from stall three, he’s a major player to knock off this short-priced favourite. Via Sistina is clearly the one to beat and is a deserving favourite at the , while Dubai Honour and Rousham Park warrant all the respect in the world filling out the minors. They must be included in all exotics; however, the price about Buckaroo is too good to ignore in this year’s Queen Elizabeth Stakes. Queen Elizabeth Stakes 2025 selections & best bets Selections: 7 BUCKAROO 12 VIA SISTINA 1 DUBAI HONOUR 2 ROUSHAM PARK $100 betting strategy $25 Win/$75 Place Buckaroo (#7) @ $15/$3.60 with Neds Queen Elizabeth Stakes 2025 final field 1. Dubai Honour (13) T: William Haggas J: Tom Marquand W: 59kg Age: 7YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Pride of Dubai Dam: Mondelice (GB) +500 +100 2. Rousham Park (12) T: Hiroyasu Tanaka J: Christophe Lemaire W: 59kg Age: 6YO Colour: Bay Sex: Horse Sire: Harbinger (GB) Dam: Reinette Groove (JPN) +2000 +400 3. Light Infantry Man (11) T: Ciaron Maher J: Ethan Brown W: 59kg Age: 6YO Colour: Chestnut Sex: Gelding Sire: Fast Company (IRE) Dam: Lights On Me (GB) +1600 +320 4. Ceolwulf (15) T: Joseph Pride J: Chad Schofield W: 59kg Age: 4YO Colour: Brown Sex: Gelding Sire: Tavistock (NZ) Dam: Las Brisas (GB) +1200 +240 5. Tom Kitten (5) T: James Cummings J: Ben Melham W: 59kg Age: 4YO Colour: Bay or Brown Sex: Gelding Sire: Harry Angel (IRE) Dam: Transfers +2000 +400 6. Vauban (14) T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott J: Tim Clark W: 59kg Age: 7YO Colour: Chestnut Sex: Gelding Sire: Galiway (GB) Dam: Waldfest (GB) +2000 +400 7. Buckaroo (3) T: Chris Waller J: Tommy Berry W: 59kg Age: 6YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Fastnet Rock Dam: Roheryn (IRE) +1400 +280 8. Lindermann (7) T: Chris Waller J: Nash Rawiller W: 59kg Age: 5YO Colour: Brown Sex: Gelding Sire: Lonhro Dam: Self Esteem +5000 +1000 9. Fawkner Park (6) T: Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald J: Tyler Schiller W: 59kg Age: 6YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Zoffany (IRE) Dam: Za’Hara (IRE) +3300 +660 10. Middle Earth (9) T: Ciaron Maher J: Jamie Melham W: 59kg Age: 5YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Roaring Lion (USA) Dam: Roheryn (IRE) +5000 +1000 11. Geoglyph (2) T: Tetsuya Kimura J: Damian Lane W: 59kg Age: 6YO Colour: Chestnut Sex: Horse Sire: Drefong (USA) Dam: Aromatico (JPN) +10000 +2000 12. Via Sistina (1) T: Chris Waller J: James McDonald W: 57kg Age: 7YO Colour: Bay Sex: Mare Sire: Fastnet Rock Dam: Nigh (IRE) -125 -625 13. Fangirl (8) T: Chris Waller J: James McDonald W: 57kg Age: 6YO Colour: Bay or Brown Sex: Mare Sire: Sebring Dam: Little Surfer Girl +1400 +280 14. Deny Knowledge (10) T: Anthony & Sam Freedman J: Mark Zahra W: 57kg Age: 7YO Colour: Bay Sex: Mare Sire: Pride of Dubai Dam: The Paris Shrug (GB) +3300 +660 15. Full Count Felicia (4) T: Chris Waller J: Tim Clark W: 57kg Age: 6YO Colour: Bay Sex: Mare Sire: War Front (USA) Dam: Claire de Lune (IRE) +10000 +2000 Horse racing tips View the full article

Champion trainer Chris Waller has labelled the Australian Oaks a clash of the queens as two classic winners from opposite sides of the Tasman prepare to do battle. While Waller has opted not to back-up star New Zealand-bred Aeliana (NZ) (Castelvecchio) from her stunning Australian Derby triumph, he will have former Kiwi Leica Lucy (NZ) (Derryn) and Verry Elleegant’s (NZ) (Zed) close relation Belle Detelle (Zed) engaged. The pair face an onerous task against Matt Laurie-trained star Treasurethe Moment, the VRC Oaks heroine and winner of her past seven starts, however Waller points out Leica Lucy also arrives strongly credentialled. The filly has been triumphant in six of her seven outings and will make her debut for Waller off the back of a last start victory in the New Zealand Oaks (2400m). “It’s the New Zealand queen running against the Australian queen, without Aeliana. It’s a good race,” Waller said on his weekly video. Treasurethe Moment is a long odds-on favourite to extend her winning sequence in Saturday’s 2400m Randwick feature, while Leica Lucy is on the second line of betting at $5. Formerly with Robbie Patterson in New Zealand, Leica Lucy began her campaign in November and Waller admitted that getting her to peak one more time would be his biggest challenge. “It is never easy getting these New Zealand horses towards the end of their campaign,” he said. “New Zealand is a little bit different. They don’t have a gap like we do. They have more late-spring racing, summer racing and then the autumn racing is almost non-existent. “We have done the best we can to keep her ticking over, nothing special. She has put on a bit of weight since arriving and James McDonald rides. There is a lot in her favour.” Two fillies have captured the New Zealand – ATC Australian Oaks double in the past decade, Pennyweka two years ago and Bonneval in 2017. Waller also reported Belle Detelle, a three-quarter sister in blood to 11-time Group One winner Verry Elleegant, had come through her win in the Adrian Knox Stakes in good order and was expected to be competitive on a seven-day back-up. Belle Detelle will be bidding to emulate Verry Elleegant, who captured the corresponding race in 2019. Aeliana was being considered for a start in the Oaks but Waller said he had decided to spell her and focus on the spring. View the full article

Champagne Diblu won’t lack support when the trial-winning youngster opens his career on his home track at Riccarton on Saturday. The Anna Furlong-trained son of Russian Revolution will be cheered on by a sizeable ownership crew when he steps out in the Listed Riccarton Park Function Centre Welcome Stakes (1000m). “He was our first micro-share horse and we’ve tried to get people involved in the game at a lower cost,” Furlong said. “It’s been pretty successful and there’s a wonderful group behind him who are all pretty excited to get him to the races.” They enjoyed an encouraging taster of what may be to come from Champagne Diblu when he spaced his rivals in an 800m heat on the track last month under Billy Jacobson, who retains the ride. “It was a lovely trial from him and it was nice to see him do it under his own steam under a hold,” Furlong said. “He’s pretty professional and loves his job, he’s a perfect racehorse really. “Obviously, we like him a lot and there weren’t many other options around, we think he’s fairly smart, but it is an ask to line him up against others that are proven. “It will be great though to get a line on him moving forward.” Champagne Diblu was a $100,000 purchase for Champagne Racing at New Zealand Bloodstock’s Ready to Run Sale where he was offered by Kilgravin Lodge. He will be opposed in the Welcome Stakes by stablemate Sweetheart (NZ) (Vanbrugh), who finished fourth at the first time of asking behind race rival Zelia at Riccarton last month. “She went super on debut, she tried really hard and will take plenty from that and is definitely one to look forward to in her three-year-old season,” Furlong said. “We should see good improvement from her on Saturday.” By Vanbrugh, Sweetheart is raced by breeder Windsor Park Stud and will be partnered by Samantha Wynne. “We’ve had the odd lease horse from them and we’ve got a great relationship, we support them at the sales so it’s great to have one in their colours,” Furlong said. The stable will also have the honest Lil Zena (NZ) (U S Navy Flag) and last-start winner Selkirk Lass (NZ) (Ghibellines) in the Listed NZB Airfreight Stakes (1600m). “Lil Zena needs things to very much go her way and Kelly (Myers) will give her a nice ride from the draw (four),” Furlong said. “Selkirk Lass has done nothing wrong and went super fresh-up at Riccarton and improved out of sight into her second start, which she won over a mile. Billy Jacobson rides her.” Furlong will have several other runners spread across the card with Miss Nico Belle (Commodore Hotel Sprint, 1200m), Tommy Shelby (NZ) (Tivaci) (Waitomo-Kiwis Fuelling Kiwis, 1400m) and Contest (NZ) (Time Test) (TAB 2nd or 3rd Back Bonus, 1200m) all expected to be competitive forces. She is also hopeful of the well-performed Betty Spaghetti coming off the ballot for a crack at the $350,000 TAB Southern Alps Challenge (1600m). View the full article

The $5 million Queen Elizabeth Stakes is shaping as a moment of truth for Ceolwulf (NZ) (Tavistock) as the dual Group One-winning miler seeks to prove he can mix it with the country’s best horses over a middle distance. Ceolwulf will take his place in a crack field that boasts Cox Plate winner Via Sistina, international raiders Dubai Honour and Rousham Park, Australian Cup winner Light Infantry Man and pre-post Melbourne Cup fancy Vauban. The winner of the Epsom Handicap-King Charles III Stakes double over a mile in the spring, Ceolwulf had his autumn campaign interrupted when he missed a scheduled run in the Verry Elleegant Stakes. He was forced to play catch-up in two subsequent starts over unsuitable distances and made hard work of his last start win in the Neville Sellwood Stakes (2000m). While that performance didn’t result in the dominant victory many expected, trainer Joe Pride said in hindsight, it was the run he needed to have. “There has been a lot said about his run,” Pride said. “There are a few things, and it normally is a combination of things, there’s not normally one answer to any question in racing. “We got a heavy track, we had him going up 500 metres, we had a very slowly run race and a big weight. It wasn’t one of his best performances, I get that. “But I also think it was the run he needed at 2000 metres to bring him right on and that’s what it looks like it has done. He will be here on Saturday and he’ll run really well.” Pride pointed out the Australian Derby placegetter turned in a similar effort in the spring when he followed a win in a 1500m benchmark race in August with a narrow second to Eliyass over 2000m in the Kingston Town Stakes before going on to land majors at his next two starts. While Ceolwulf still needs to prove he can be as effective over 2000m at the top level as he has been over a mile, Pride is keeping the faith. “We will find that out on Saturday,” he said. “It was just like a launching pad for him, that run at 2000 metres (in the spring), and I think this will be the same. “The difference between a 1000-metre horse and 1200-metre horse is massive. There are horses that run great over 1000 and can’t run 1200 metres down a well. “But a mile to 2000 metres is not that same kind of hurdle.” Ceolwulf came up with the outside gate in the 15-horse field at Tuesday’s barrier draw with favourite Via Sistina drawing gate one. View the full article

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