Wandering Eyes

Clem Murphy, one of the most respected senior members of the Coolmore team in Ireland, has died after a short illness. He was 75. Described by John Magnier as a man who had “the respect of all”, Murphy's passing on Friday comes as a blow to his many friends and colleagues, both within the close-knit team at Coolmore and in the wider bloodstock world. Leading the tributes, Magnier said, “We count ourselves extremely lucky to have had Clem with us at Coolmore since the outset. He soon became part of our family and his friendship was treasured by us all. “He had an unparalleled knowledge of the global bloodstock market and a great interest in the sport of racing. Firm but always fair, he was an extraordinarily clear thinker who could always find solutions where others only saw problems. A family man through and through, I will miss him greatly as will all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Clem had no enemies and the respect of all, a perfect example for us all to follow.” Demi O'Byrne spoke of Murphy as “a magnificent man”. He continued, “I've been a close friend of his and worked closely with him for 50 years and you would have never had a better companion. He was a very gifted man at his job and we went to endless rugby matches – he had a huge knowledge of rugby. If I was away and came back to Ireland to meet him on a Friday evening in McCarthy's there was nobody like him.” A native of County Limerick and a passionate supporter of Munster Rugby and Limerick Hurling, Murphy had a background in finance and was employed by the leading accountancy firm Price Waterhouse prior to his move to Tipperary. His involvement with Coolmore stretches back almost to the operation's origins. He arrived there in 1978 – having been interviewed for the job by Noel O'Callaghan – and has been one of the closest and most trusted allies of John Magnier through the intervening years as Coolmore has expanded its interests across the racing and breeding world. “It's a dark, dark day for us all here,” said another of his close friends, Paul Shanahan. “Clem hired me – he was the one who interviewed me. It was his rule of law for everybody. He was different class.” David Nagle of Barronstown Stud also paid tribute. He said, “I thought the world of Clem and, more importantly, John Magnier thought the world of him. He's been an integral part of Coolmore for close on 50 years. Nothing happened in the horse world in Coolmore without Clem's approval. He was just a very special man. He was a wonderful ambassador and was world-renowned in our business. He was one of those guys who was very level-headed; he was just different. This is a very sad day.” Clem Murphy, left, with many of his Coolmore friends and associates | Tattersalls Coolmore's David O'Loughlin, who, along with Tom Gaffney, was involved in breeding a number of good horses with Murphy, said, “I've known him for nearly 40 years and he was exactly as he appeared – very sound, smart, a fun guy and very straightforward. He was also very kind and very fair. There was no side to him. “We'd have some great nights out in Deauville or Newmarket when we were away at the sales and we used to hear some great stories. He was here from the [Robert] Sangster days and would have come though the downs of the 90s when the world collapsed. The syndication of Fusaichi Pegasus would have been one of his big deals. He knew everybody and knew what was going on everywhere. He had unbelievable knowledge of the business side of horses and stallions – how to put together a share and syndicates – he knew all of the angles.” With his great friend Gaffney, Murphy bred the G1 Cheveley Park Stakes winner Wannabe Grand (Ire) (Danehill) and the pair bred and raced her Group 3-winning half-sister Wannabe Better (Ire) (Duke of Marmalade {Ire}), later the dam of G3 Darley Stakes winner Lady Wannabe (Ire) (Camelot {GB}). They also bred the outstanding four-time Group 1 winner Alcohol Free (Ire) (No Nay Never) as well as the G1 Middle Park Stakes runner-up and Group 3 winner Castle Star (Ire) (Starspangledbanner {Aus}). “Clem was also involved in the ownership of Atlantic Jewel in Australia,” O'Loughlin added. “He loved all sports and was a big rugby man but he loved racing in particular. He was really clued into it; he was living the dream.” A regular figure at all the major bloodstock sales, Murphy represented the ownership triumvirate of Magnier, Michael Tabor and Derrick Smith on the board of the Breeders' Cup, having also served as chairman of the Breeders' Cup racing and nominations committee. Rogers Beasley, the former director of sales and racing at Keeneland and now executive vice-president and chief strategy officer for Breeders' Cup, said, “Clem was a great plus for our industry. I knew him for 40 years or so from when I was running Keeneland, and also through his work for the Breeders' Cup, and he was always so good to deal with. He did a great job representing the European interests on the Breeders' Cup board. “He was also a great conduit for the Europeans in general and for the Irish community in Kentucky from a sales viewpoint. He will be sorely missed by so many people in the industry.” A statement issued by Breeders' Cup Ltd read, “We are deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Clem Murphy, a valued and long-serving member of our board of directors. “Clem joined our board in 2006 and served with unwavering dedication and passion for 20 years. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in the international growth of the Breeders' Cup World Championships and was instrumental in the expansion to a two-day festival of racing with purses and awards of more than $34 million. As co-chair of the racing and nominations committee, Clem was a driving force behind the expansion of the Breeders' Cup international stallion program and played a key role in incorporating major international races into the Breeders' Cup Challenge: Win & You're In Series. “Clem's wisdom, insight, strong will, and unwavering commitment to our industry will be deeply missed. He was not only a respected colleague but also a dear friend to many within our organization. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Coolmore team during this difficult time.” Clem Murphy will be laid to rest in Fethard over the weekend. He is survived by his wife Barbara, children Alix, Lauren, and Michael John (MJ), and his grandchildren, to whom we extend our deepest sympathies. The post ‘A Magnificent Man’: Clem Murphy Dies at 75 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) has expanded its overall investment in the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, the Belmont at the Big A spring/summer meet and the July 4th Racing Festival from 56 stakes worth $16.85 million in 2024 to 55 stakes totaling $17,250,000 this year, according to press releases from the racing entity on Friday. Highlighted by the 157th edition of the Grade I, $2 million Belmont Stakes presented by NYRA Bets on Saturday, June 7 at Saratoga, the five-day 2025 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival will include 27 stakes races with purses totaling $11,275,000, the richest purses and highest number of stakes offered since the launch of the multi-day Belmont Stakes Racing Festival in 2014. The third leg of the Triple Crown will once again be contested at 1 1/4 miles in 2025 rather than the traditional 1 1/2 miles due to the configuration of the Spa's main track. For the third consecutive year as the television home of the festival, FOX will present live broadcast coverage during the week. The stakes schedule for the 2025 Belmont at the Big A spring/summer meet is also set and will begin on Thursday, May 1 and continue through Sunday, July 6. The ongoing construction of the new Belmont Park will again require adjustments to the customary NYRA schedule. The meet–which includes the July 4th Racing Festival at the Spa–features 28 stakes worth $5,975,000, which is a change from 32 stakes at $6.6 million last year. Typically held at Belmont Park, the July 4th Racing Festival will serve as a prelude to the traditional summer meet at Saratoga and conclude the Belmont at the Big A spring/summer slate. Following the 2025 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival from June 4-8, live racing on the NYRA circuit will return to Aqueduct from June 12 to June 29 prior to the July 4th Racing Festival. With the addition of the Belmont Stakes and July 4th Racing Festivals, Saratoga will host nine live race days in 2025 outside of the traditional 40-day summer meet. Click here to access a list to the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival stakes rundown, and here for the July 4th schedule. The post NYRA Raises Investment To Over $17m For Upcoming Stakes Slate, Includes Spa’s Belmont Racing Festival appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Adam Hamilton Jason Grimson is growing in confidence his dual New Zealand Cup winner Swayzee can add a Miracle Mile to his stunning CV at Menangle tonight (11.45pm). Many felt Swayzee, one of the great modern day stayers, wouldn’t adapt to sprint racing, but he proved them wrong with a stunning 1min48.6sec mile qualifying win at Menangle last Saturday night. But a dramatic twist in the Miracle Mile barrier draw has the doubters emerging again. Swayzee drew gate two, which looked ideal, but moments later emergency Bulletproof Boy drew one. It means Swayzee will move down the pole if, as expected, the emergencies come out. “One’s not bad, but two would have been a lot better,” Grimson said on Melbourne radio SENTrack. “He’s got more gate speed than people realise though.” Grimson surprised by saying he was confident Swayzee had enough early speed to hold-out key rival and noted quick beginner Don Hugo, who will start next door in gate two. Swayzee is a $5 third favourite behind Leap To Fame ($2.15) and Don Hugo ($3.20). “He (Swayzee) did hold out Kanena Provlima once and he’s very quick out,” he said. “I think he’s got enough speed to hold Don Hugo. It’s very hard to cross when you’re right next to another horse. “Tact McLeod is the quickest out and he’s the one I think is most likely to get across, if anything can. “I’ll leave Cam (Hart) to make the decisions, but he’s got to come out as quickly as he can.” Grimson agreed a key in the early stages of the race was staying in front of favourite and defending champion, Leap To Fame, who will start from out wide in gate seven, which he won from last year. “I think we can and it’ll be important because we know we can beat him when we’re in front of him,” he said. Swayzee trails Leap to Fame 2-3 in their five clashes. His two wins have come when he has drawn better and settled in front of Leap To Fame. “Leading is the place we’d love to be, but he’s more versatile than people realise,” Grimson said. “Just because he’s been out and rolling in most of his races, people think that’s how he has to be driven, but he’ll go great off a helmet (with a sit). That’s how we work him.” Given the amazing depth and strength of this Miracle Mile, Grimson thinks they can test the race and Australasian record 1min46.9sec if conditions suit. “I’m sure Swayzee can go low 1min47sec or even beat the record and Larry (Leap To Fame) can, too,” he said. “I’d love them to break the record. It would be cool to be part of it.” For all his stunning success in the past four years, Grimson said winning a Miracle Mile would top it all. “It’s the race I want. It’s my home track, we train here and race here and it’s a race with such history,” he said. “It’s so hard just to get into it.” Grimson also has former pin-up pacer Captain Ravishing in the race. “He can surprise them. He went super last week and has bounced through the race even better than I expected,” he said. “If he can position up handy, without doing any early work, he’ll be right in the finish.” Grimson had two runners in last year’s Miracle Mile, but his chances plummeted when second favourite Himanameisjeff galloped while dashing to the lead and lost all chance. His other runner Frankie Ferocious charged home from the rear to run fourth. View the full article

Nice and Easy Thoroughbreds isn't the type of operation that rolls into the 2-year-old sales armed with a battalion of juvenile prospects. Such was the case for the 2021 renewal of the OBS March Sale when the consignment led only two head to the venue–a colt by Shaman Ghost who breezed an eighth in :10 flat and a colt by Race Day who completed the task in :10.2. While the former, subsequently named Grave Danger, would never exit the claiming ranks, the Race Day colt, subsequently named White Abarrio, would achieve a level of success that people could only dream of. Offered by Summerfield at the 2020 OBS Winter Mixed Sale, the grey was purchased for the bargain sum of $7,500 by the nephew-and-uncle team of Edilberto Herrera and Jose Ordonez. “When I saw him at the barn, thought he was acting like all horse,” Herrera recalled. “I liked his conformation, his walk and his body. He moved with a lot of class and with a long stride. He is out of an Into Mischief mare, so that was good too. At that time, people didn't really like the horses by Race Day because nothing had really run well. But I had it in my mind, there was [Tapit] on top and it might be a nice cross.” Asked what precluded him from offering the colt during his yearling year, the longtime Ocala horseman explained, “I decided not to take him to the yearling sales because he was changing and just looked better and better. I had him over a year and the horse always showed me something serious. I thought he would fit better at the 2-year-old sales.” Prepped by Herrera for the following season's March sale, the colt was secured by trainer Carlos Perez, who signed the ticket after the colt brought $40,000 in Ocala. “When he sold for $40,000, I thought the price was Ok. It was good for that year,” he admitted. “When he breezed well and had a strong gallop out, everybody liked him. But one of the big reasons he didn't bring a lot of money was that he was by Race Day. If he had been by Tapit, he would have brought a lot more. But anyway, I couldn't have bought him if he had been by Tapit!” He continued, “When I was training him, he was like a car. You push a little bit and he's gone. If you don't push, the horse stays the same. You want to go short; he'll do it. You want to go far, he's right there. He has the class and a strong mind to go with it. I think the horse has everything.” Perez was the trainer of record when White Abarrio, sent off at 12-1 for his debut, galloped home a 6 3/4-length winner in a 6 1/2-furlong test at Gulfstream in October of his juvenile year. Transferred to Saffie Joseph Jr. after the C 2 Racing Stable stepped in to purchase the son of the Into Mischief mare Catching Diamonds, the striking grey won three of his next four starts, including Gulfstream's GI Florida Derby and GIII Holy Bull Stakes and later finishing runner-up in that year's GIII Ohio Derby and third facing older horses in the GI Cigar Mile. In his second start of the 2023 season, the Spendthrift Farm bred won a seven-furlong optional claimer in Hallandale in March and was subsequently sent to Rick Dutrow Jr., a move triggered by what would ultimately prove to be a temporary suspension for Joseph. For Dutrow, the grey finished third in the GI Met Mile before taking the GI Whitney Stakes and GI Breeders' Cup Classic. “I was watching on TV and I went crazy the day he won the Classic,” he said. “He's my favorite horse.” After a couple of lackluster early season starts, White Abarrio returned to Joseph, who took his time bringing him back to the races. A 10 1/4-length winner going seven-eighths at Gulfstream in November, White Abarrio concluded 2024 with a second in the oval's GIII Mr. Prospector. Making his first start at six in this year's Pegasus, he steam-rolled his opposition–including runner-up Locked (Gun Runner) who subsequently won the GI Santa Anita Handicap–airing by 6 1/4 lengths. “When I saw the horse at the Derby or even now, the horse is still the same–A lot of class. I follow him all the time,” Herrera said. “I am so proud of him. I did everything with him, I broke him and I rode him. The only thing I didn't do was ride in the breeze show. I'm still a big fan of the horse.” White Abarrio winning this season's Pegasus World Cup | Adam Coglianese The Nice and Easy Team arrives at OBS this time around with a trio of juveniles–a pair of fillies and a colt. Leading the trio is Hip 52, another granddaughter of Tapit, by Cupid and out of SP Cruzette (War Pass), who breezed an eighth in :10.1 on the initial day of works. She was a $12,000 purchase at Keeneland last September. “I really love that filly. She is a nice filly and she can run,” he said. “I really thought she could go :10 flat or :9 4/5, but the track was a bit flat. But it was the same for everybody. I think it's sometimes more important for the buyers to see how they can get over the track.” “When I bought this filly, she was a bit skinny, but so was White Abarrio when I bought him.” Also representing the operation, Hip 347 is by Rock Your World out of Miss Vero (Tale of the Cat) and Hip 640, a colt by Win Win Win out of Torchme (Gimmeawink), a sister to Classic winner Da' Tara. The former was a $9,500 KEENOV buy and the latter brought $10,000 at the 2024 OBS Winter Sale. “She is a bit on the small side but I like how she moves,” he said of the Rock Your Work filly. “I really love her since she got here. I love how she moves on the Polytrack.” The sole colt in this year's Nice and easy consignment, Herrera admitted he was particularly high on the colt. “He has a beautiful body. He is a monster,” he said. “I have never had one like him. He has the [physical] and the class. It might be a bit too early for him. I can't believe how much he's grown, but I think he'll be good [down the line].” Herrera, who offered his first juveniles five years ago, admits he typically brings a small sampling to the venue given its timing on the calendar. “I don't bring a lot of horses here because it's a bit early for them. I don't try to force it. If they are sound and have a good mind, I'll bring them to March. If they don't have the good mind, this is a hard sale to sell them. If they need more time, I bring them here next month.” He confirmed Nice and Easy will be represented by four 2-year-olds at the upcoming OBS April Sale. The April consignment will consist of juveniles by Frosted, Candy Ride, Bucchero and Galilean. The post Nice and Easy Tbreds Hopes To Unveil Another White Abarrio at OBS March appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Gelding bought by Philip Liu is half-brother to the Group 1-winning Summer Passage.View the full article

PENN Entertainment's Zia Park Racetrack is seeking applications for a track superintendent and official starter for its 2025 fall season, the organization said in a press release on Friday. The position's duties include managing the track maintenance team, oversight of all equipment, maintaining compliance with HISA and New Mexico Racing Commission rules and regulations, and ensuring a safe racing surface for all equine and human participants. The role of the starter includes the recruitment and managing of assistant starters, starting of all races, gate schooling for horses and oversight of maintenance on the starting gates in compliance with HISA standards. Individuals interest in obtaining more information regarding either position may contact Christopher McErlean, Vice President of Racing, PENN Entertainment at christopher.mcerlean@pennentertainment.com. The post Zia Park Seeks Track Superintendent And Starter For 2025 Meet appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A gelding by I Am Invincible (Aus) brought top dollar at the Hong Kong Jockey Club's Hong Kong International Sale when selling for HK$5 million (€593,909) to Philip Liu. Sold as lot 12, he is a half-brother to Group 1 winner Summer Passage (Aus) (Snitzel {Aus}). I Am Invincible's star progeny to race in Hong Kong include Group 2 winner Wishful Thinker (Aus) and 2024 HKIS graduate Markwin (Aus), who has earned HK$3.76 million, including a HK$1-million ISG Bonus. Second on the buyers' sheet was lot 5, a gelding by So You Think (NZ) who sold to So Wing Keung for HK$4.6 million (€546,396). His dam Andresa (Aus) (Fastnet Rock {Aus}) is a full-sister to four-time Group 1 winner Mosheen (Aus). A pair of lots each made HK$4 million (€475,127)–lot 15 a son of Siyouni (Fr), and lot 17, a chestnut gelding by Lope De Vega (Ire). The former sold to HKJC Racing Club Limited, while the latter caught the eye of Alan Chan. Other lots with a European slant to their pedigrees include a son of No Nay Never (lot 9) who made HK$3.2 million (€380,102) on the winning bid of Cheung Kwai Po; and lot 2, a son of Mehmas (Ire) that hammered for HK$1.2 million (€142,538) to Lee Lit Lung. The sale average was HK$3.006 million (€357,137) (-9%), while the gross was HK$45.1 million (€5,357,058) (-2.6%). The median dropped to HK$2.6 million (€308,833) (-18.8%). Danny Rolston, executive manager, International Sale/Owners Advisory Services, HKJC, said, “We've put some really nice horses up, we were really selective on the final group that we offered to the market. “As you would know from the withdrawal list, we took out the horses that weren't suitable for sale right at this point–some of those will be made available for sale at a later stage–but what we did offer here tonight are horses that we have a lot of confidence in. Some of the horses at the lower end of the market this year, we're absolutely positive that there's some great value in hand. “I think the market has dictated that horses aren't worth the same as what they perhaps were two years ago and we're confident that we've released some really nice horses into the market for our permit holders and in another 12 months we'll be telling more stories like Markwin and New Future Folks and permit holders have come to the international sale and they've actually got value and they've been able to buy horses that are right here and ready to train and have a pretty good chance of going and winning a race in their first 12 months and being a chance in their 4-year-old season.” The post I Am Invincible Gelding Tops Hong Kong International Sale At HK$5m appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Churchill Downs has scheduled 50 stakes races cumulatively worth a record $26,175,000–a $525,000 increase–for its 2025 Spring Meet, which covers 43 race dates between April 26-June 29, the track said in a Friday press release. The American Turf for 3-year-olds, annually staged on the Kentucky Derby undercard, had its purse raised to $1 million after the American Graded Stakes Committee elevated the 1 1/16-mile grass race to Grade I status. The American Turf is one of four Spring Meet stakes that received purse hikes for 2025 and one of seven races that warranted upgrades by the American Graded Stakes Committee of the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association. Here are the changes for 2025: American Turf: Upgraded status from Grade II in 2024 to Grade I in 2025; Purse increased from $600,000 in 2024 to $1 million in 2025; Aristides: Upgraded from Listed to Grade III status in 2025; Chicago: Upgraded status from Grade III in 2024 to Grade II in 2025; Purse increased from $250,000 in 2024 to $300,000 in 2025; Chorleywood: Received Listed status in 2025; Purse increased from $175,000 in 2024 to $200,000 in 2025; Issac Murphy Marathon presented by Resolute Racing: Received Listed status in 2025; Mamzelle: Upgraded from Listed to Grade III status in 2025; Maxfield: Purse increased from $175,000 in 2024 to $250,000 in 2025; Roxelana presented by LG&E: Received Listed status in 2025. During Kentucky Derby Week (April 26-May 3), there will be 22 stakes races cumulatively worth a record $17.9 million, including nine stakes totaling $11,150,000 on Derby Day and seven totaling $5.25 million on Oaks Day. As was the case last year, Churchill Downs has partnered with Ascot Racecourse and Great Britain's The Jockey Club to extend a “wild card” entry initiative that ties together Kentucky Derby Week with the Betfred Derby Festival and Royal Ascot. The winner of the American Turf on Kentucky Derby Day will receive an entry and travel stipend to compete in the G1 Betfred Derby at Epsom June 7 and G1 St. James's Palace at Royal Ascot June 17, while the winner of the Edgewood on Kentucky Oaks Day will receive the same benefits for the G1 Betfred Oaks at Epsom June 6 and Group 1 Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot June 20. The winner of the GI Old Forester Bourbon Turf Classic will receive a berth to either the G1 Queen Anne Stakes or the G1 Prince of Wales' Stakes at Royal Ascot, and the Twin Spires Turf Sprint winner will receive an entry to the G1 King's Charles III Stakes, also staged at Royal Ascot. In return, a runner from both the Queen Anne and Prince of Wales's will receive an entry and travel incentive to run in the GI Arlington Million at Colonial Downs in mid-August. Also, a runner from the G1 Tattersales Falmouth Stakes will receive an entry and travel stipend for the GII Beverly D Stakes on the Arlington Million undercard. Other Spring Meet highlights include Stephen Foster Preview Day on Saturday, May 31; Stephen Foster Day on Saturday, June 28; and five closing day stakes on Sunday, June 29. Following its annual closure for wintertime renovations, the Churchill Downs stable area will reopen Tuesday, March 18. The first day of training on the main dirt track will be Wednesday, March 19. The post Churchill Downs Ups Stakes Purses To Record $26m For Spring With GI American Turf Set At $1m appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will host a job fair on Wednesday, Mar. 19 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. ET to support the 2025 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at Saratoga Race Course, the track said via an early morning Friday release. The job fair will be held in the 1863 Club at the Spa. Attendees should enter through the Wright Street entrance (Gate 8) with parking available in the 1863 Club lot. Festival positions include mutuel clerks, cashiers, merchandise clerks, customer service representatives, white caps, security guards, restaurant supervisors, barbacks, bussers, runners, prep cooks, dishwashers and parking attendants. NYRA, Dyehard Fan Supply, Integrated Staffing and Levy Restaurants will be among the companies and organizations represented at the job fair. Prospective workers must be at least 15 years of age and have New York State Certified Working Papers. Those interested in positions as security guards, cashiers and betting clerks must be at least 18 years of age to apply; security guards must have a high school degree or GED. All applicants must present a photo ID and Social Security card or I-9 alternative. The post NYRA To Hold Second Job Fair For Belmont Stakes Racing Festival appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk Santanna Mach is the very essence of the 1980s Tourism New Zealand slogan : “Don’t Leave Home Until You’ve Seen The Country” The grand old campaigner lined up for start number 224 at Westport this evening in the BP2GO Westport Team Teal Pace, finishing seventh with Rapid Response winning for Sam Ottley, her third victory for the day. In doing so he completed a truly remarkable feat. The 11-year-old has now raced at every active harness racing course around the country and even at some that are now no longer going. In total he’s raced at 31 different venues. Michael House has been his only trainer and clearly holds the veteran pacer in the highest regard. “This is quite novel what he’s done,” says House, “and he’s touched a lot people’s lives along the way.” House only became aware of Santanna Mach’s incredible record late last year. He worked out that of all the tracks in the country the only other ones missing on the CV were Blenheim, Omakau (Central Otago) and Westport. He then hatched a plan. House took Santanna Mach to Omakau on January 2, finishing second, followed up by an eighth at Waterlea Raceway in Blenheim on January 17. That left Westport as the only racecourse left. And now that’s been ticked off too, with Kimberly Butt driving him for the first time. She’s the 39th individual driver to have guided the horse since his debut in 2016! Leading junior driver Wilson House has had the most drives with Santanna Mach and it was one of their wins, at Addington in 2023, that stands out for his father. “He really launched him … it was a daring drive and it was at the stage when Wilson hadn’t done much and I was very proud of both the horse and Wilson.” Wilson House’s 100th driving win was Santanna Mach’s 20th. At the time Wilson described him as a “pretty cool old horse”. Bred and raced by retired Whakatane accountant John Rennie, Santanna Mach didn’t win the marquee races though he was the Country Cups king for a while, winning at places like Otaki and Tauherenikau as well as closer to home. Under-rated by many, when he won his 21st race in December last year at Rangiora he still paid $36.70 for the win. “He’s very easy to train but difficult to get right – he runs his own races,” says Michael House. The fact that he’s won races every year from 2018 to 2024 is a testament to this longevity and attitude. With harness racing planned for Taupo (January 26 2026) Santanna Mach’s jaunt around the country might not be finished yet. “He’s been everywhere so why wouldn’t I?” Santanna Mach : Career record : 224 starts for 21 wins 39 different race day drivers They are : (from most to least drives) : Wilson House 58 Blair Orange 39 Sam Ottley 19 Sarah O’Reilly 14 Jimmy Curtin 10 Kirstin Green 9 Nathan Delany 7 Sam Thornley 7 Michael House 6 Benjamin Butcher 4 Colin DeFilippi 4 Todd Mitchell 4 Kerryn Tomlinson 3 Ricky May 3 Zev Meredith 3 Alicia Harrison 2 Crystal Hackett 2 Daniel Anderson 2 Dexter Dunn 2 John Morrison 2 Jordyn Bublitz 2 Kim Blakemore 2 Robbie Holmes 2 Tyler Dewe 2 Zachary Butcher 2 Alan Edge 1 Andre Poutama 1 Barry White 1 Ben Laughton 1 David Butcher 1 Dylan Ferguson 1 Kimberly Butt 1 Luke Whittaker 1 Matthew White 1 Matthew Williamson 1 Peter Ferguson 1 Sailesh Abernethy 1 Steph Burley 1 Tony Cameron 1 View the full article

There are 13 horse racing meetings set for Australia on Saturday, March 8. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the best bets and the quaddie numbers for Flemington, Randwick, Ellerslie, Murray Bridge, Bunbury & Alice Springs. Saturday’s Free Horse Racing Tips – March 1, 2025 Flemington Racing Tips Randwick Racing Tips Ellerslie Racing Tips Murray Bridge Racing Tips Bunbury Racing Tips Alice Springs 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 March 8, 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. Dabble Signup Code AUSRACING 3 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. Recommended! 4 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. 5 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. 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

Di Arbuthnot, the former chief executive of the charity Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) was presented with the Sir Colin Spedding Award at the National Equine Forum on March 6 in recognition of her dedication to racehorse welfare. . Head of the RoR for more than 20 years, Arbuthnot received her award from the HRH The Princess Royal. She said: “It was a privilege, 25 years ago, to become part of a charity that has helped many thoroughbreds have another career. “Bringing awareness of their adaptability and their successes has helped change the way those both inside and outside of the industry look at the life of a thoroughbred. It would not have been possible without the commitment and foresight of the chairmen and trustees of RoR, particularly in those early days, as well as the dedication and hard work of a small team. I am delighted to accept this award on their behalf.” The post Di Arbuthnot Recognised for Racehorse Welfare Work appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Hong Kong-based Mauritian rider will make another trip to Australia to ride Chris Waller’s promising colt in feature sprint.View the full article

Odds Bookmakers News Field Past Winners Kewney Stakes Group Two Betting Guide Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025 Location: Flemington Racecourse – Melbourne, Victoria Prize Money: $300,000 Distance: 1600m The A.V. Kewney Stakes is a Group 2 race for three-year-old fillies, run over 1600m under set weights at Flemington by the Victoria Racing Club. First held in 1952, the Kewney Stakes honours Arthur V. Kewney, VRC secretary from 1925 to 1946. Originally contested over 2000m, the Kewney Stakes shifted to 1600m in 1985, 1400m in 2010, and returned to 1600m in 2021. The Kewney Stakes race has a strong history of producing future classic winners, with past victors claiming the Group 1 AJC Oaks (2400m), Group 1 Australasian Oaks (2000m), and Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m). Notable past winners include Sunline, Northwood Plume, Special Harmony, Mannerism, Zarita, and I Am A Star. The 2024 Kewney Stakes, worth $300,000, was won by Autumn Angel, defeating Basilinna and Mollynickers. 2025 Kewney Stakes betting odds Autumn Angel ridden by Mark Zahra winning the 2024 Kewney Stakes at Flemington. (Photo by Pat Scala/Racing Photos) Odds for the Kewney Stakes as of March 5 – Courtesy of Neds Treasurethe Moment Win $1.75 Place $1.12 Too Darn Lizzie Win $9.00 Place $2.35 Cilacap Win $10.00 Place $2.50 London’s Image Win $11.00 Place $2.70 Sneaky Sunrise Win $12.00 Place $2.80 Jenni The Fox Win $12.00 Place $2.80 Another Prophet Win $14.00 Place $3.20 Captured By Love Win $15.00 Place $3.30 Princess Montecito Win $34.00 Place $6.00 She Nailed It Win $151.00 Place $18.00 How to bet on the Kewney Stakes Many of the top online bookmakers feature markets on the Kewney Stakes, with these generally out in the week leading up to the race. The team at HorseBetting has compiled comprehensive reviews of our trusted online bookmakers which all offer odds on the Kewney Stakes. Kewney Stakes betting sites are generally accessible via both computer and mobile, with most having horse racing betting apps for Android and iOS smartphones and tablets. The top Kewney Stakes bookmakers include 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. Dabble Signup Code AUSRACING 3 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. Recommended! 4 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. 5 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. 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. 7 Bet With A Boom BoomBet Daily Racing Promotions – Login to view! Join Boombet Review 18+ Gamble responsibly. Think. Is this a bet you really want to place. Full terms. 8 By Players, For Players UniBet Unibet offer daily promotions to registered and logged in customers only Join Unibet Review 18+. Gamble Responsibly. Chances are you are about to lose. Full terms. 9 On Your Side Betfair Australia Australia’s only betting exchange Visit Betfair Review What are you prepared to lose today? Set a deposit limit. Full terms. 10 Ladbrokes Switch Ladbrokes Ladbrokes offer daily promotions to registered and logged in customers only Visit Ladbrokes Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? Set a deposit limit today. “GETON is not a bonus code. Ladbrokes does not offer bonus codes in Australia and this referral code does not grant access to offers. Full terms. Kewney Stakes News Flemington race-by-race tips & quaddie | All-Star Mile Day 2025 Horse Racing Tips 1 day ago A massive 10-race meeting awaits punters at Flemington for All-Star Mile Day 2025 on Saturday, March 8. Check out HorseBetting’s … Read More The Follow Files: Godolphin mare flashes home late at Randwick Horse Racing Tips 2 weeks ago Following the races at Flemington and Randwick last Saturday, HorseBetting’s Ciaran Jackman has found three runners that are worth sticking … Read More Autumn Angel just holds on to claim Group 2 Kewney Stakes Australia horse racing news 12 months ago Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman and Mark Zahra have combined with Autumn Angel to take out the Group 2 Kewney … Read More Flemington full racing preview & quaddie tips | March 9, 2024 Horse Racing Tips 1 year ago A stacked eight-race meeting awaits punters at Flemington on Saturday for Newmarket Handicap Day. Check our free race-by-race preview for … Read More Revolutionary Miss records a much-deserved win in Kewney Stakes Australia horse racing news 2 years ago Mark Zahra and Peter & Paul Snowden have combined with Revolutionary Miss to take out the Group 2 Kewney Stakes … Read More Flemington full racing tips & quaddie | Newmarket Handicap Day Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago Nine races are set down for decision on Saturday at Flemington for Newmarket Handicap Day, and HorseBetting’s James Herbert presents … Read More 2025 Kewney Stakes Final Field No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight 1 Treasurethe Moment Matt Laurie Damian Lane 9 56kg 2 Another Prophet Ciaron Maher Ethan Brown 8 56kg 3 Captured By Love Mark Walker Jamie Melham 1 56kg 4 London’s Image Ryan Hill Brad Parnham 4 56kg 5 Sneaky Sunrise Ben, Will & JD Hayes Daniel Stackhouse 5 56kg 6 Cilacap Grahame Begg Craig Williams 10 56kg 7 Jenni The Fox Alex Rae Craig Newitt 7 56kg 8 Too Darn Lizzie Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Ben Melham 2 56kg 9 Princess Montecito Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman – 6 56kg 10 She Nailed It Tim Hughes Thomas Stockdale 3 56kg Previous Kewney Stakes Fields 2024 Kewney Stakes field No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight 1 Serasana Robbie Griffiths & Mathew de Kock John Allen 7 56kg 2 Sassy Boom Danny O’Brien Craig Williams 13 56kg 3 Mislead Rachael Frost Luke Currie 2 56kg 4 Grinzinger Belle Danny O’Brien Damian Lane 12 56kg 5 Autumn Angel Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman Mark Zahra 5 56kg 6 Mollynickers Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman Ben Melham 6 56kg 7 Basilinna Emma-Lee & David Browne Blake Shinn 3 56kg 8 So Glamorous Grahame Begg Michael Dee 10 56kg 9 French Endeavour Matthew Smith Jye McNeil 8 56kg 10 Pink Chandon Michael Moroney Jamie Kah 11 56kg 11 Into You Shay Keating Alana Kelly 1 56kg 12 Ethel Maude Pat Carey & Harris Walker Ethan Brown 4 56kg 13 Vieste Benjamin Smith Fred Kersley 9 56kg 2024 Kewney Stakes result https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Flemington-2024-Goup-3-Kewney-Stakes-09032024-Autumn-Angel-Peter-Moody-Katherine-Coleman-Mark-Zahra.mp4 1st – Autumn Angel (+360) 2nd – Basilinna (+450) 3rd – Mollynickers (-125) Recent runnings of the Kewney Stakes: 2024: Zahra lifts Autumn Angel to Kewney triumph Autumn Angel ($4.60) saluted in the 2024 Group 2 Kewney Stakes at Flemington, thanks to a smart ride by Mark Zahra. The Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman-trained filly settled midfield and received good cover before she began to make her run under a vigorous ride from Zahra, as she hit the front with 250m to go. After putting the stablemate Mollynickers ($3.90) in a pocket upon straightening, the daughter of Autumn Angel lengthened nicely and appeared to have the race within her keeping at 200m mark, but the swoopers were coming. Along with stablemate, Basalinna ($23.00) started to challenge the leader but the strength of Zahra in the final 50m helped the filly hold on and claim a valuable win over a distance that is slightly short of her best. 2023: Revolutionary Miss explodes late Mark Zahra gave Revolutionary Miss a top steer in the Group 2 Kewney Stakes at Flemington, with the win being her second win of her career after she broke her maiden in the Blue Diamond Fillies Prelude in February of 2022. After running in the Group 2 Light Finger Stakes and Group 1 Surround Stakes at Randwick at her previous two starts, running fifth both times over 1200m and 1400m, the obvious next step was the 1600m third-up at Flemington. The eventual runner up Papillon Club and third placegetter Nunthorpe settled outside the winner in the running, leaving Zahra with no choice but to wait for a run to appear between horses and then push the button on his filly.Jumping as a $3.60 second favourite with online bookmakers, the daughter of Russian Revolution was the strongest runner in the field at the end of 1600m, as she got the better of Papillon Club in the final strides. 2022: Barb Raider fends off rivals The Jerome Hunter-trained Barb Raider backed up her first-up performance by scoring a win in the Group 2 Kewney Stakes (1600m) at Flemington. The daughter of Rebel Raider turned in another terrific performance after winning the Group 3 Vanity Stakes (1400m) at the same venue three weeks prior when first-up from a spell. Jockey Craig Williams continued his successful association with the Mornington-trained filly. He took her forward to settle outside the lead in the early stages of the race, before eventually fighting off the leader in the final 100m and holding on to score a narrow win from the fast-finishing race-favourite Argentia. Previous winners of the Kewney Stakes Kewney Stakes Past Winners Year Horse Jockey Trainer 2024 Autumn Angel Mark Zahra Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman 2023 Revolutionary Miss Mark Zahra Peter & Paul Snowden 2022 Barb Raider Craig Williams Jerome Hunter 2021 Starelle Craig Williams Danny O’Brien 2020 Rubisaki Billy Egan Patrick Payne 2019 Spanish Whisper Dwayne Dunn David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig 2018 Bella Martini Dwayne Dunn Michael, John & Wayne Hawkes 2017 I Am A Star Dean Yendall Shane Nichols 2016 Badawiya Craig Newitt Mick Price 2015 Wawail Michael Walker David Hayes 2014 Solicit Damian Lane Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra 2013 Flying Snitzel Craig Williams Gerald Ryan 2012 Empress Rock Steven Arnold Bart Cummings 2011 Do Ra Mi Michael Walker Peter Moody 2010 Faint Perfume Michael Rodd Bart Cummings 2009 Gallica Damien Oliver Mick Price 2008 Zarita Greg Childs Pat Hyland 2007 Anamato Craig Newitt David Hayes 2006 Doubling Danny Nikolic Mick Price 2005 Ballet Society Steven King Pat Hyland 2004 Special Harmony Damien Oliver Lee Freedman 2003 Lashed Damien Oliver Graeme Rogerson 2002 Elegant Fashion Scott Seamer Tony McEvoy 2001 Ponton Flyer Damien Oliver Tom Hughes 2000 Umaline Craig Williams Colin Little Kewney Stakes winners pre-2000 Kewney Stakes Past Winners Pre 2000 Year Horse 1999 Sunline 1998 Rose Of Danehill 1997 Regal Crown 1996 Eureka Jewel 1995 Northwood Plume 1994 Tristalove 1993 Orsay 1992 Tarare 1991 Mannerism 1990 Reganza 1989 Pray For Colleen 1988 Tennessee Vain 1987 Send Me An Angel 1986 Imperial Regina 1985 Love A Kiss 1984 Mapperley Heights 1983 More Rain 1982 Voli Dream 1981 Deck The Halls 1980 Bravita 1979 Prunella 1978 Sun Sally 1977 In Pursuit 1976 How Now 1975 Cap D’Antibes 1974 Love Aloft 1973 Sweet Vamp 1972 Gossiper 1971 Sanderae 1970 Gay Poss 1969 Cautious Sue 1968 Lowland 1967 Spell 1966 Dual Quest 1965 Whitsome 1964 Swell 1963 Marpyrean 1962 Holiday 1961 Miss Dante 1960 Mintaway 1959 Wiggle 1958 Gay Satin 1957 Sandara 1956 Arbolado 1955 Orbona 1954 Waltzing Lady 1953 Just Caroline 1952 Great Field Recommended! Take It To The Neds Level Home of the Neds Toolbox Check Out Neds 18+ Gamble Responsibly Full terms Punters Prefer Blondes It’s a fact, Blondes have more fun Join BlondeBet 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE?. Say Hey to the social bet! You Better Believe It Join Dabble 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE?. Full terms. Next Gen Racing Betting Top 4 Betting. Extra Place. Every Race. Join Picklebet 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? It Pays To Play New online bookmaker Check Out PlayUp 18+ Gamble Responsibly View the full article

By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk It’s been years in the making and Claire Downey is still in a bit of disbelief that she and her “Mr Reliable” Major Ouch are Horse of the Year winners. Yesterday at equestrian’s biggest event, the Defender Horse of the Year show, the combo were crowned NZ Standardbred Breeders Association Ridden Standardbred of the Year at Hastings. “It was a shock to the system, I can’t really believe it,” says Downey, “but I’m stoked to have won it with him.” Over the years she has literally collected buckets of ribbons in the Show Ring but before yesterday she hadn’t won the title she wanted the most. “This was Ouch’s fourth or fifth year in the Ridden class. So much time and effort and money go into it,” says Downey, “it was emotional.” She has been close before, and just last year the pair finished third in both the Inhand and the Ridden disciplines. So what changed this year? “I thought beforehand he’s 17 now and maybe this is our swansong so I was pretty relaxed about it.” “I just took the pressure off myself and thought he’s nothing left to prove to anyone.” “He’s also had a much easier season. He’s only been to two shows and in the past he’s been to 12 or 13. He was the happiest he’s been.” “If this is the last time we go to HOY what better way to finish?” The win caps off a remarkable association between horse and rider. Major Ouch was a six race winner on the track. The son of Art Major had four wins for dual New Zealand Cup-winning trainer Ray Green before getting injured. In 2012 Downey then took the horse and re-educated him under saddle. She thought his racing days were over until she was noticed “he was just hooning around the paddock”. After an absence of over two years, and after getting approval for Major Ouch’s owners John and Lynne Street, he returned to the racetrack, winning fresh up at Pukekohe. Trained by Claire’s husband Roydon and/or his late father Errol, Major Ouch also took out the 2014 Taranaki Cup. Major Ouch finished racing at Hawera in 2015 after winning six races from 35 starts. Since then he’s done all sorts of things in his life after racing – saddle paces, endurance races and of course many events in the show ring. “I know him inside out,” says Downey, “he’s Mr Reliable, just the coolest easiest horse.” While yesterday was a huge day in their lives together there was no time for celebration. They had an eight hour road trip back to Kumeu! Tonight though they might be able to relax a bit with Claire off to see country star Chris Stapleton at Auckland’s Spark Arena. Horse of the Year 2025 Results : The NZ Standardbred Breeders Association Ridden Standardbred of the Year : 1st- Claire Downey and Major Ouch 2nd- Taylah Dolan and Michelangelo 3rd- Tash Higgs and You Can Fly Arden 4th- Chanelle Dickie and Eagles Nest 5th- Sarah Collinson and Smith Willow Bay 6th- Annie Eldershaw and Ideal Zen The Harness Racing NZ Inhand Standardbred of the Year : 1st- Connor Hill and Hawk (pictured above) 2nd- Simon Higgs and Does It On His Ear 3rd- Chanelle Dickie and Eagles Nest 4th- Tash Higgs and You Can Fly Arden 5th- Christina Bird and Shake Your Bon Bon 6th- Alessandra MacFarlane and Seize the Moment View the full article

HRNZ Chief Executive Brad Steele says there is still room for optimism despite the fall in breeding numbers for the 2025 season. Latest figures show that a total of 1552 individual mares have been bred to, a drop of 12 per cent on last year. “Breeding numbers have been under pressure over the past two decades,” says Steele, “and it is disappointing to see a double figure decrease. We have to own that but there are encouraging signs that we can stabilize and eventually rebuild.” The total for 2025 is 225 mares bred down on the corresponding 12 months, with Trotting Mares services stable at around 500 and Pacing Mares services down 200 from 1351. “The trotting totals are gratifying. They reflect recent initiatives to increase their funding and recognition, with trotters making up 30 per cent of our sport,” says Steele. Volstead leads the way with 53 mares, ahead of Tactical Approach (47) and On A Streak (37). Sweet Lou tops the pacing stallions’ list with 149 while his son Confederate had good numbers (67) as did the likes of Always B Miki (113), Captain Crunch (81) and Pebble Beach (79). Some colonial sires like Carlton (28), Krug (23), Royal Aspirations (27), Habibi Inta (27), Sky Major (19) and Oscar Bonavena (15) have also been in demand. Steele says the latest figures just reinforce how critical is it to get new and younger people involved in the sport. “It is evident that smaller breeders are especially reducing their numbers,” says Steele, “and there are a number of reasons for that – costs are rising and some of the breeders themselves are getting older and getting out of the breeding game.” Steele is confident the tide can turn. “Our surveys show that there is confidence in the future of our sport, and that is crucial.” “Several positive industry developments are also beginning to take effect, creating a more attractive environment for breeders, owners, and investors.” Steele says these include increases in stakes, the success of Next Gen, proposed tax reforms, the Entain 2YO bonuses and other incentive schemes and the strong results at the recent NZB Standardbred National Yearling Sales. “We cannot lose sight of the fact that there is a lot of optimism for our sport and we are committed to doing all we can to turn these breeding stats around,” says Steele. View the full article

Odds Bookmakers News Field Past Winners Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap Group Three Betting Guide Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025 Location: Flemington Racecourse – Melbourne, Victoria Prize Money: $200,000 Distance: 1400m The Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap is a Group 3 race run over 1400m under handicap conditions at Flemington by the Victoria Racing Club. First held in 2001, the Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap briefly lost its Group status from 2008 to 2010 but has since regained its place on the autumn calendar. The Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap, worth $200,000 in 2025, has produced a mix of winners, with some finding success later in their careers. Notable past winners of the Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap include Sedation, Orange County, dual winner Launay, Amorino, Kissonallforcheeks, and Scallopini. 2025 Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap betting odds Von Hauke ridden by Craig Williams winning the 2024 Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap at Flemington. (Photo by Brett Holburt/Racing Photos) Odds for the Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap as of March 5 – Courtesy of Neds Is It Me Win $2.80 Place $1.40 Fancify Win $5.50 Place $2.00 Ayrton Win $8.00 Place $2.50 Territory Express Win $9.00 Place $2.70 Aztec Ruler Win $9.50 Place $2.80 Nugget Win $10.00 Place $3.00 Klabel Win $15.00 Place $3.90 My Khalifa Win $17.00 Place $4.40 Cote Atlantique Win $21.00 Place $5.00 Lady Jones Win $23.00 Place $5.50 Communist Win $41.00 Place $8.50 How to bet on the Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap The Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap isn’t a race that’s on the tip of every punters’ tongue, but Australian betting sites do have markets out in the weeks leading up to the event. Some of the top Australian online bookmakers will open up Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap all-in markets, which don’t provide insurance if your selected runner doesn’t start in the race, but the odds are more appealing. All of our horse betting sites offer betting on the Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap and bookmaker offers will also be available in the days leading up to the race. These horse racing betting sites generally have apps available for iOS and Android smartphones. 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. Dabble Signup Code AUSRACING 3 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. Recommended! 4 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. 5 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. 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. 7 Bet With A Boom BoomBet Daily Racing Promotions – Login to view! Join Boombet Review 18+ Gamble responsibly. Think. Is this a bet you really want to place. Full terms. 8 By Players, For Players UniBet Unibet offer daily promotions to registered and logged in customers only Join Unibet Review 18+. Gamble Responsibly. Chances are you are about to lose. Full terms. 9 On Your Side Betfair Australia Australia’s only betting exchange Visit Betfair Review What are you prepared to lose today? Set a deposit limit. Full terms. 10 Ladbrokes Switch Ladbrokes Ladbrokes offer daily promotions to registered and logged in customers only Visit Ladbrokes Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? Set a deposit limit today. “GETON is not a bonus code. Ladbrokes does not offer bonus codes in Australia and this referral code does not grant access to offers. Full terms. Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap News Flemington race-by-race tips & quaddie | All-Star Mile Day 2025 Horse Racing Tips 24 hours ago A massive 10-race meeting awaits punters at Flemington for All-Star Mile Day 2025 on Saturday, March 8. Check out HorseBetting’s … Read More Von Hauke storms home to claim Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap Australia horse racing news 12 months ago Cliff Brown and Craig Williams have combined with Von Hauke to take out the Group 3 Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap on … Read More Flemington full racing preview & quaddie tips | March 9, 2024 Horse Racing Tips 1 year ago A stacked eight-race meeting awaits punters at Flemington on Saturday for Newmarket Handicap Day. Check our free race-by-race preview for … Read More Scallopini proves way too good in Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap Australia horse racing news 2 years ago Damian Lane and Steven O’Dea & Matthew Hoysted have combined with Scallopini to win the Group 3 Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap … Read More Flemington full racing tips & quaddie | Newmarket Handicap Day Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago Nine races are set down for decision on Saturday at Flemington for Newmarket Handicap Day, and HorseBetting’s James Herbert presents … Read More Kissonallforcheeks takes out the Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap Australia horse racing news 3 years ago WA raider Kissonallforcheeks has given her rivals a galloping lesson in Saturday’s Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap, with Group 1 goals firmly … Read More 2025 Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap Final Field No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight 1 Ayrton Mick Price & Michael Kent (Jnr) Jamie Melham 9 58.5kg 2 Nugget Ciaron Maher Declan Bates 8 58kg 3 Territory Express Paul Niceforo Ms Carleen Hefel 1 58kg 4 Aztec Ruler Stefan Vahala Damian Lane 10 56.5kg 5 Lady Jones Stephen Brown Jye McNeil 7 54kg 6 Fancify Michael Hickmott Joe Bowditch 11 54kg 7 Cote Atlantique Henry Dwyer Harry Coffey 4 54kg 8 My Khalifa Gordon Richards & Damien Moyle Lachlan Neindorf 2 54kg 9 Communist Anthony & Sam Freedman Craig Newitt 6 54kg 10 Is It Me Daniel Bowman Billy Egan 3 54kg 11 Klabel Richard & Chantelle Jolly Zac Spain 5 54kg Previous Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap Fields 2024 Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap field No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight 1 Berkshire Shadow Ciaron Maher Mark Zahra 3 59kg 2 Pinstriped Enver Jusufovic Ben Allen 2 59kg 3 Amenable Mick Price & Michael Kent (Jnr) Damian Lane 7 55kg 4 Savannah Cloud Phillip Stokes Thomas Stockdale 8 54.5kg 5 Wild Planet Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes Jye McNeil 10 54.5kg 6 Brayden Star Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young Daniel Moor 1 54kg 7 Windstorm John Leek (Jnr) Harry Coffey 6 54kg 8 Jimmysstar Ciaron Maher Jamie Kah 4 54kg 9 Superium Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes N/A 9 54kg 10 Von Hauke Cliff Brown Craig Williams 5 54kg 2024 Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap result https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Flemington-2024-Goup-3-Shaftesbury-Avenue-Handicap-09032024-Von-Hauke-Cliff-Brown-Craig-Williams.mp4 1st – Von Hauke (+115) 2nd – Amenable (-125) 3rd – Savannah Cloud (+190) Recent runnings of the Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap: 2024: Von Hauke rolls odds-on favourite Craig Williams and Cliff Brown combined with Von Hauke ($8.00) to take out the 2024 Group 3 Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap, which gave Williams his fifth victory in the race in the last 13 years. Race favourite, Amenable ($1.80) led the field from the barriers and beat all bar the winner, as he began to tire in the final 100m after doing all of the hard work into the strong wind. Savannah Cloud ($3.90) faded out of the race in the concluding stages to finish third after settling outside the leader, leaving the top two to fight the race out, gapping the rest of the field by 2.5 lengths. 2023: Scallopini proves too gritty Scallopini gave the rest of the Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap field 1.5kg and he still gave them a beating, bringing up his fourth win from four starts at the Flemington 1400m. After jumping from barrier 14, Damian Lane pushed forward and was made to work three-wide for the first 200m of the race, before crossing and settling outside Savannah Cloud at the front of the field. Rounding the home turn, Lane asked for the ultimate effort and when he did the eight-year-old son of Snitzel exploded away to put two lengths on Savannah Cloud who couldn’t go with him and with nothing making up considerable ground, Scallopini was home with 100m to go. 2022: Kissonallforcheeks cruises to victory Western Australian visitor Kissonallforcheeks took out the 2022 Group 3 Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap (1400m) at Flemington in convincing fashion. WA Trainer Dan Morton made the trip over after a first-up second in the Listed Cyril Flower Stakes (1200m) at Ascot. She had also managed to record Group 1 placings last preparation in both the Railway Stakes (1600m) and Kingston Town Classic (1800m). The Ascot-trained mare appreciated the step up to 1400m; a distance where she had won three times from five attempts. Jockey Mark Zahra settled the four-year-old mid-field, one off the fence. Kissonallforcheeks then cruised up to join the leaders at the 300m mark before sprinting away with an impressive 2.25 length victory over the Ben & JD Hayes-trained Crosshaven. Previous winners of the Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap Past Winners Year Horse Jockey Trainer 2024 Von Hauke Craig Williams Cliff Brown 2023 Scallopini Damian Lane Steven O’Dea & Matthew Hoysted 2022 Kissonallforcheeks Mark Zahra Daniel Morton 2021 Morvada Damian Lane Peter Jolly 2020 Blazejowski Craig Williams Greg Eurell 2019 Violate Michael Walker Brent Stanley 2018 Nozomi Jye McNeil Anthony Freedman 2017 He Or She Mark Zahra David & B Hayes & T Dabernig 2016 Red Bomber Damian Lane David & B Hayes & T Dabernig 2015 Amorino Craig Williams Archie Alexander 2014 Mouro Craig Williams Tony McEvoy 2013 Launay Kerrin McEvoy Peter Snowden 2012 Rockpecker Craig Williams Ken Fythe 2011 Launay Kerrin McEvoy Peter Snowden 2010 Wind Shear Stephen Baster Dale Sutton 2009 Chasm Brad Rawiller Heath Conners 2008 Skiddaw Peak Greg Childs Michael Moroney 2007 Archie Senior James Winks Danny O’Brien 2006 Vroom Vroom Craig Williams David Hayes 2005 Roman Arch Noel Callow Robbie Laing 2004 Rain Gauge Vincent Hall Tom Hughes 2003 Old Man Darren Gauci John Hawkes 2002 Prince Benbara Brett Prebble Tony Rosolini 2001 Yammer Nash Rawiller Tony Noonan 2000 Arabian Magic Brett Prebble Ken Newman Recommended! 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Left with more questions than answers after the Gr.2 Hobartville Stakes (1400m), Linebacker‘s (NZ) (Super Seth) trainers John O’Shea and Tom Charlton are focusing on the three-year-old’s pleasing work at home as the best guide to his Gr.1 Randwick Guineas (1600m) prospects. Following a solid first-up performance in the Gr.3 Eskimo Prince Stakes (1200m), Linebacker turned in a head-scratching effort in the Hobartville when he drifted back in the field and never seriously threatened, finishing sixth and more than three lengths from winner Broadsiding. Tom Charlton admits the stable has ben unsure what to make of the run but cannot fault the horse at home. “It was hard to get a good guide on him from where he got to in the run, and he never really had a chance to get balanced and build up his revs,” Charlton said. “But we’re confident he is going well enough to run very well. Whether it’s good enough to beat Broadsiding is probably a separate conversation. “His work at home is very good. His SP (starting price) profile the other day was very good so it seemed like a few people were expecting to see a more improved run as much as we were.” Linebacker led in the Eskimo Prince and Charlton said they had anticipated him stalking the speed last start. While still to analyse the race makeup for Saturday’s Randwick Guineas (1600m), he expects Linebacker to assume a more positive position. “I haven’t had a good look at the map but that’s our intention,” Charlton said. “We definitely wouldn’t want to ride him in such a negative way.” In-form jockey Zac Lloyd has been booked for his first race ride on Linebacker, whose only other start over the Guineas course and distance yielded a Group One second to nemesis Broadsiding in the Gr.1 Champagne Stakes (1600m). As is the case with many of his rivals, Saturday’s feature is a fork in the road and will determine whether Linebacker is stretched out in distance to a Rosehill Guineas (2000m) or targeted towards a race like the Doncaster Mile (1600m). View the full article

Promising filly Island Life could cap a big week for one of Pencarrow Stud’s families when she lines up as favourite for the Gr.3 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Sunline Vase (2100m) at Ellerslie on Saturday. Island Life is by Vadamos out of the Montjeu mare Lycia, whose half-sister Corinthia is the dam of last Saturday’s Gr.1 Australian Guineas (1600m) winner Feroce. Pencarrow principal Sir Peter Vela retained Island Life to race in his familiar blue and white hooped colours, and she has been a big mover in Final Field betting in the lead-up to the Sunline Vase. Island Life and fellow black-type performer Eye Candy vied for favouritism when the markets opened on Wednesday, with Island Life at $4.40 and Eye Candy $4.80. But it has been one-way traffic from there as Island Life has tightened into $3.20. Island Life boasts strong form credentials in a six-race career that has produced a win, two seconds and a third. She finished second and first in her first two starts in the spring, then stepped up to stakes level with a close second in the Gr.3 Wellington Stakes (1600m) at Otaki. She was beaten by a long head in that race by Tuxedo, who went on to place in the Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) before easily winning last month’s Gr.2 Waikato Guineas (2000m). He is a leading contender for the Gr.1 Trackside New Zealand Derby (2400m) on Saturday. Island Life’s next start produced a late-finishing fifth in the Gr.3 Eulogy Stakes (1600m) behind this season’s benchmark staying filly Leica Lucy. She then stepped up over ground and ran third behind Real Class and Bella Montagna in the Gr.2 Sir Patrick Hogan Stakes (2000m) at Ellerslie on New Year’s Day. Both of those fillies have since been sold to Australia. Trainers Steven Ramsay and Julia Ritchie freshened Island Life after the Sir Patrick Hogan Stakes. She resumed with a sixth over 1500m at Pukekohe on February 23. “She probably needed that run,” Ritchie said. “We chucked her out in the paddock for 10 days after the race on New Year’s Day, and she did really well and we were possibly a bit light on her. But she also ran into a wall of horses in that race at Counties, so she didn’t have a lot of luck go her way either. “She’s come through that run really well and is looking bright and happy. Everything’s gone pretty well with her leading into Saturday.” Ramsay and Ritchie will use Saturday’s Sunline Vase to determine whether Island Life carries on to Trentham for a shot at the Gr.1 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai New Zealand Oaks (2400m) on March 22. Leica Lucy dominates the market for that fillies’ classic as a $1.30 favourite. Myakkabelle is on the second line of betting at $8, with Island Life currently rated a $10 third favourite. “Early on, we were a bit sceptical about getting her up over ground,” Ritchie said. She used to race a little bit fiercely. But she seems a lot more relaxed these days and has settled down a lot. “Saturday is going to be a big test for her. We’ll use this race to see whether we press on for the Oaks, or if she might be better suited to dropping back down in distance. There’s still a little bit of a question mark there. “What we do know is that a nice, even tempo will suit her and help her to relax. The Sir Patrick Hogan Stakes was just run too slowly.” The Sunline Vase could be part of a big Champions Day for Sir Peter Vela, who also shares in the ownership of the $3.5 million NZB Kiwi (1500m) contender Public Attention. View the full article

Legarto will contest Saturday’s Group 1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) at Ellerslie. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) After a pair of fast-finishing seconds on major Ellerslie racedays last season, New Zealand’s highest-rated mare Legarto has the chance to set the record straight on Champions Day. Saturday’s Group 1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) will be the fourth start at Ellerslie for Legarto, who picked up a win and two second placings from her three appearances at the reopened Auckland track last season. Legarto was a winner over 1400m at Ellerslie last January, then was upset by Desert Lightning as a $1.30 favourite in the Aotearoa Classic (1600m) on Karaka Millions night. Desert Lightning kicked away at the corner, leaving Legarto more than half a dozen lengths in his wake, and the star mare could only claw the gap back to a length and three-quarters at the finish line. The third placegetter finished seven lengths behind the first pair. It was a strikingly similar story in the Group 1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) last March, where Legarto jumped as a $1.20 favourite. This time it was El Vencedor who opened up an unassailable advantage, beating the strong-finishing Legarto by a neck with five and a half lengths back to third. “She has had a bit of a problem with getting too far out of her ground, which you can’t really afford to do in these top-level races at Ellerslie,” Legarto’s co-trainer Ken Kelso said. “That’s going to be up to Ryan Elliot (jockey) on Saturday, but our only instructions will be to ride her like the best horse in the race.” There is little doubt that Legarto deserves that description. The daughter of Proisir has won 10 of her 16 starts and more than $2 million, including Group 1 triumphs in the New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m), Australian Guineas (1600m) and Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m). A minor tendon injury ruled her out of the spring, but she returned to action with a stunning performance in the Listed Lisa Chittick Champagne Stakes (1400m) at Matamata three weeks ago. In her first start for 322 days, she pounced at the top of the straight and won with ease. “I have to admit to being a bit surprised by what she did that day,” Kelso said. “We obviously know how good she is, and she’d been working well leading into the race and had a very good exhibition gallop at Tauranga. But that performance probably blew us away a little bit. “Everything’s gone to plan since that race as well. She had another exhibition gallop at Matamata last Saturday, where Ryan rode her and was very happy with how she felt. She did a nice bit of maintenance work on Tuesday morning. All systems are go for Saturday.” Legarto is one of two Champions Day runners for Kelso and his wife Bev, with both set to jump as favourite. The couple will also saddle the brilliant three-year-old filly Alabama Lass in the Group 3 King’s Plate (1200m). Alabama Lass won all of her first three starts this season including the Group 2 Soliloquy Stakes (1400m) and Group 3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m). She has finished second at Group 1 level in both of her starts since then, chasing home Captured By Love in the New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) and being edged out by a short head by Crocetti in the Sistema Railway (1200m). Bookmakers rate Alabama Lass a $2 favourite to turn the tables on Saturday, with Crocetti the second favourite at $3.30. “She’s been a bit unfortunate with the weather,” Kelso said. “She’s struck rain-affected ground in both of those Group One races, which didn’t suit her at all. With a bit better luck, she could just about be unbeaten this season. “The rain made the 1600m quite a test in the Guineas at Riccarton, which it was always going to be for her anyway, but she was very brave. And then it was similar on deteriorating ground in the Railway, but she was extremely brave that night too. “She’s gone the right way since then. She’s had five weeks between runs, but galloped brilliantly between races last Saturday and ran fantastic time there. She worked up very well again on Tuesday. We think she’s right where we want her to be.” Horse racing news View the full article

Loftys Gift currently leads the Southern Cups Bonus Series after winning last Saturday’s Listed Dunedin Gold Cup (2400m) at Wingatui. Photo: Tayler Strong Sunday’s Wyndham Cup (2000m) at Gore is the penultimate race in the Southern Cups Bonus Series, with Ascot Park trainer Robert Dennis holding pole position at the moment with his mare Loftys Gift. The six-year-old daughter of Ghibellines put herself three points ahead of her nearest rival with victory in last Saturday’s Listed Dunedin Gold Cup (2400m) at Wingatui, and she is in line to try and secure the $50,000 bonus in next month’s Riverton Cup (2147m). “We have been winning a few races, so it is nice to get a black-type win for the season, and for the owners too,” Dennis said. “She has flown through the race, which is really pleasing. “At this stage, we are going to look to run in the Breeders’ Stakes (Group 3, 1600m) at Riccarton before heading to the Riverton Cup. They were on a Heavy8 this week (at Riccarton) and if she struck a heavy track, I think she will be very competitive over a mile at set weights and penalties. “A $50,000 bonus, winner takes all for the owners, is highly motivating to carry on from here and try to win the Riverton Cup.” Dennis will aim to gain some valuable series points this weekend with three other runners, including Sacred Dream, Stolen Magic, and Vino Valentino. “Things didn’t go right for Sacred Dream in the Invercargill Cup,” Dennis said. “She is dropping back to 2000m and has drawn barrier one. The track and distance she has won at in the same meeting last year, and I would expect to see an improved performance from her. She might be better with a bit of a freshen-up after the race too, we will just see how she goes on Sunday. “Stolen Magic has come a long way this preparation. She was only a maidener about four months ago. She has won three races now, but she is probably looking for the paddock fairly soon too, so this could be one last roll at the dice for her. If she can hold her form from the Invercargill Cup, I would imagine she would be hard to beat. “Vino Valentino was pretty disappointing last start after a really good run first-up. Hopefully it’s a little bit of second-up syndrome there and we are looking to see her bounce back on Sunday.” Dennis is also looking forward to lining up Xrated in the Pine Bush Cup (2000m). “She should be a good chance again,” he said. “She doesn’t help herself being a bit awkward out of the gates at times. She won at this track and distance at the start of February, and it doesn’t look an overly strong field. “She is a real stayer, she just needs to be able to get out at the right time and hopefully put the pressure on them early in the race and outstay them.” Stablemate The Bright One has been knocking on the door, placing in her last three starts, and will be out to break through for her maiden win in the K2 Kontracting & Bridgestone Gore (1335m). “She has got plenty of ability and talent, just lacks ringcraft,” Dennis said. “I think it is a good thing that she hasn’t won because she has given herself the chance to learn and pick-up a bit of ringcraft in maiden company. “We have got the blinkers on and pre-race ear covers too just to help settle her a touch. She should be a really good chance.” Meanwhile, Dennis is looking forward to welcoming three new acquisitions to his barn in the coming weeks after being active on Gavelhouse.com’s auction on Monday night. The southern horseman has had a fair bit of success with graduates of the online platform, headed by Group 3 winner Out Of The Park. “Friends of mine, Jack Stewart and Mike Rennie, bought Out Of The Park off there for about $14,000,” Dennis said. “We gave her seven starts and she won four of them, including a Group Three (South Island Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes, 1600m), and broke a track record. “I bought three horses on Gavelhouse on Monday night, adding more strength to our racing team, and we have got shares available.” Horse racing news View the full article

Belclare pictured with breeder and co-owner David Woodhouse. Photo: Race Images Belclare will attempt to carve out a piece of New Zealand racing history with an unprecedented third victory in the Group 1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) at Ellerslie on Saturday. The daughter of Per Incanto won the fillies and mares’ feature at Pukekohe in 2023, then defended her crown at Ellerslie last March. She became only the sixth back-to-back winner of the Breeders’ Stakes, joining Tudor Light (1976-77), Orchidra (1978-79), Waikiki (1990-91), Aimee Jay (1998-99) and Saint Cecile (2001-02). Now Belclare has the chance to be the first member of that group to make it a treble. Belclare raced in Australia in the spring, scoring outstanding victories in the A$2 million Group 2 The Invitation (1400m) at Randwick on October 26 and the Group 2 Hot Danish Stakes (1400m) at Rosehill on November 9 for expat Kiwi trainer Bjorn Baker. The seven-year-old ventured across the country to contest the Group 1 Railway Stakes (1600m) in Perth on November 23, but was well below her best and finished at the tail of the field. Owner-breeder David Woodhouse elected to bring Belclare back home to the Awapuni stable of Lisa Latta, hoping for a repeat of her Ellerslie heroics in last season’s Group 2 Westbury Classic (1400m) and Breeders’ Stakes. Belclare went into this year’s Westbury Classic fresh and finished 10th, just over seven lengths behind the winner Konasana. She showed signs of improvement with a last-start fifth behind El Vencedor, Qali Al Farrasha, Orchestral and Konasana in the Group 1 Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m). “She’s always seemed to be a mare that’s needed a couple of runs before she’s at her best and in the right frame of mind,” Woodhouse said. “Sam Spratt got off her after that last run and said she expected her to really benefit from that run, although she then decided to hop off her altogether (to ride Provence on Saturday). “Lisa has been very happy with Belclare leading into this weekend, so we’ll see what happens. What I was hoping when I decided to bring her back home was that she’d really relish racing around Ellerslie again, where she’d won the Westbury and Breeders’ Stakes so well last season. “I’d love to see her right back at that sort of level again on Saturday. It won’t be easy, but winning the Breeders’ Stakes three years in a row would be a remarkable achievement and something to be very proud of.” Belclare has made a habit of scoring upset victories on the big stage. She defied $22 odds for her first Breeders’ Stakes win, then landed a $21 boilover in the Westbury. Her win in The Invitation in Sydney came at $26 odds. Belclare will be ridden by Wiremu Pinn on Saturday and is rated a $16 chance, sharing fourth favouritism with this season’s Group 1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) winner Provence. Legarto dominates the market at $1.60, with Konasana at $7 and Acquarello the third favourite at $15. Horse racing news View the full article

A federal judge in New Mexico has dismissed a first amended complaint stemming from a lawsuit initiated one year ago in which the New Mexico Horsemen's Association (NMHA) sued SunRay Park, Albuquerque Downs and Ruidoso Downs for injunctive relief and damages over alleged violations of the Interstate Horseracing Act (IHA). “In sum, NMHA fails to state plausible claims for relief under the IHA's consent provisions,” stated the Mar. 5 opinion and order out of the United States District Court for New Mexico. “NMHA has not established itself as the relevant horsemen's group as defined by [federal statute] §3002(12),” the opinion stated. “Further, the [complaint] contains no allegations that any of the Racetracks accepted an illegal interstate off-track wager. To the extent the IHA may permit civil actions for violations of the regular contractual [process] NMHA does not allege any facts establishing that it engaged in such a process with the Racetracks, much less an abandonment of that process. Accordingly, the Court grants the Racetracks' request to dismiss NMHA's enforcement claims.” The opinion stated the sequence of events that led to the lawsuit. “In early 2024, NMHA sent draft consent agreements to the Racetracks in an effort to negotiate NMHA's role in the 2024 race season. The Racetracks declined to execute those contracts and continue in their refusal to deal with NMHA. Despite this ongoing dispute, and lacking an agreement with NMHA, Ruidoso Downs conducted its 2024 race meet and simulcasted races for off-track wagering outside the state. “The Racetracks took further action against NMHA in the wake of the contract dispute. SunRay and Ruidoso Downs banned NMHA's board of directors from their facilities. Albuquerque Downs began refusing NMHA directors stalls for their race horses. Albuquerque Downs and Ruidoso Downs also started requiring racehorse trainers who participate in race meets to enter agreements appointing the tracks' own horsemen's groups as their representatives in the requisite off-track wagering process. The agreements state that the local horsemen's groups are responsible for negotiating horseracing contracts with Albuquerque Downs and Ruidoso Downs. If trainers refuse to sign, they are excluded from racing or obtaining stalls for their horses,” the opinion stated. “The fallout spurred the present litigation. NMHA first sued SunRay and sought a temporary restraining order, which the Court denied. SunRay responded with its own counterclaims and sought equitable relief and damages. Ruidoso Downs and Albuquerque Downs intervened, and filed their own third-party complaint [and] the Racetracks moved to dismiss,” the opinion stated. The NMHA, in the complaint, had advanced four claims for relief under the IHA: 1) A declaration that the racetracks must have a written agreement with NMHA before consenting to off-track wagering, and if an agreement is not reached, that the racetracks may not simulcast their races or enter simulcast agreements with any entity. 2) An injunction requiring the racetracks to negotiate and enter an agreement with NMHA as required under the IHA, and if no agreement is reached, that the racetracks be enjoined from simulcasting their races. 3) To preclude the racetracks from requiring owners, trainers, or NMHA members and directors to sign contracts compelling the relevant party “to appoint any other group as the horseman's representative as a condition of entering racetrack grounds, using a racetrack stall, or participating in racing.” 4) That the racetracks be enjoined from excluding or banishing NMHA directors, officers, or members from their respective facilities. The judge wrote that, “to plausibly allege that it was the horsemen's group under the IHA, NMHA must state in the [complaint] that it represented the majority of owners and trainers at the Racetracks on particular race days when races were offered for interstate off-track wagering. “NMHA fails to do so,” the opinion continued. “The [complaint's] allegations regarding NMHA's status as the horsemen's group are all framed broadly. “For instance, NMHA states that it has represented horsemen in New Mexico since 1966 and is the largest advocacy group for racehorse owners and trainers in the state,” the judge wrote. “NMHA further alleges that a New Mexico state court recognized it as the largest New Mexico horsemen's group in 2023. These allegations, without more, do not establish that NMHA represented the majority of owners and trainers at any of the Racetracks on any race day; the [complaint] contains no allegations relating to specific races offered for interstate off-track wagering by the Racetracks. “Moreover, the [complaint] alleges that Ruidoso Downs and Albuquerque Downs now condition owners and trainers' participation in their race meets on the execution of contracts appointing local 'stalking-horses' groups as the horsemen's groups for given races. Functionally, these allegations and the related contracts establish the existence of alternative, unanimously appointed horsemen's groups at Ruidoso Downs and Albuquerque Downs for all race days,” the opinion stated. “A unanimously appointed horsemen's group at a track on a particular race day is the horsemen's group under the IHA, not a rival entity with statewide majority representation,” the opinion continued. “NMHA has alleged that it is the latter, not the former. Accordingly, the [complaint's] enforcement claims must be dismissed because NMHA has not established itself as the horsemen's group for purposes of this dispute.” The post Federal Judge Dismisses New Mexico Horsemen’s Association Complaint Against Tracks appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

What Champion’s Day 2025 Where Ellerslie Racecourse – 100 Ascot Ave, Remuera, Auckland 1051, New Zealand When Saturday, March 8 First Race 12:15pm NZDT (10:15am AEDT) Visit Dabble New Zealand racing’s richest raceday, Champion’s Day, awaits punters at Ellerslie Racecourse on Saturday with an action-packed 10-race meeting scheduled. The inaugural running of the $3.5 million NZB Kiwi (1500m) headlines proceedings, but is duly supported by four Group 1 races, including the time-honoured New Zealand Derby (2400m) worth $1.25 million. A perfect day for racing is forecast in Auckland, and with the rail in its true position, and the track likely to be a Good 4 come race one, there will be no excuses for fancied runners throughout the meeting. The opening event of Champions Day 2025 is set to commence at 12:15pm NZDT (10:15am AEDT). Race 1: Entain/NZB Insurance Pearl Series Final (1400m) Vegas Queen was a touch outclassed last time out in the Listed Uncle Remus Stakes (1400m), but as she steps back in grade, the Kenny Rae-trained filly looks well-placed. The Proisir progeny was only beaten a length at this track over 1200m in Group 3 company two starts ago, and with this being her second look at the 1400m, she should be primed to bounce back from her 4.8-length defeat at her most recent run. Barrier seven is offset by her early speed, and if Jasmine Fawcett can find the rail, Vegas Queen will take some catching. Selections: 1 VEGAS QUEEN 11 BOSS ‘N’ HIGHHEELS 7 BONIFLEUR 6 SEXY AND I MOET Race 2: Group 3 Sunline Vase (2100m) Eye Candy was only run down in the shadows of the winning post in the Listed Oaks Prelude (1800m) at New Plymouth after leading the field up. The Darci Brahma filly may have had an excuse, as jockey Lily Sutherland dropped her whip at a crucial point, and she was only beaten by a half length. From barrier seven, Kevin Stott looks set to gain an uncontested lead throughout, and with a well-rated ride, Eye Candy is the one to beat in the 2025 Sunline Vase. Selections: 1 EYE CANDY 4 THIS TIME GIRL 6 SHOCKABELLA 3 SKYMAX Sunline Vase Race 2 – #1 Eye Candy (7) 3yo Filly | T: Shaune Ritchie & Colm Murray | J: Kevin Stott (56.5kg) Race 3: Group 3 Kings Plate (1200m) A small but select field has come together for the 2025 Kings Plate, but it is last start Group 1 Railway (1200m) winner Crocetti who gets the verdict. The son of Zacinto managed to stalk Alabama Lass throughout on that occassion when giving the filly 4.5kg, and managed to get the better of that runner in a driving finish late on. That was on rain-affected going, which may not have suited the filly, but with a similar run in transit expected for Crocetti, look for the ‘Wizard of Waz’, Warren Kennedy to have this guy pouncing late. Selections: 1 CROCETTI 5 ALABAMA LASS 3 BABYLON BERLIN 2 SACRED SATONO Next Best Race 3 – #1 Crocetti (2) 4yo Gelding | T: Danny Walker & Arron Tata | J: Warren Kennedy (58kg) Race 4: Group 1 Sistema Stakes (1200m) La Dorada returns to the Ellerslie 1200m in the Group 1 Sistema Stakes, the same course and trip which saw her salute in the Karaka Millions 2YO two starts ago on January 25. Aided by a perfect on-speed steer on that day, the Super Seth filly put close to two lengths on her rivals in commanding fashion. She has since gone on to win the Group 2 Matamata Breeders’ Stakes (1200m), and despite stable companion Return To Conquer being the favourite with PlayUp, La Dorada will give her something to run down. Barring any misfortune from barrier seven, La Dorada will settle on speed and if she offers the same kick she did in the Karaka 2YO, she will prove too hard to run down. Selections: 6 LA DORADA 1 RETURN TO CONQUER 9 LUCY IN THE SKY 2 HE WHO DARES Sistema Stakes Race 4 – #6 La Dorada (7) 2yo Filly | T: Mark Walker & Sam Bergerson | J: Michael McNab (55kg) Race 5: Group 1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) If Legarto is anywhere near her best, then the 2025 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes is hers to lose. She returned from a near 12 month break with a breathtaking win in the Listed Champagne Stakes (1400m) at Matamata when forced to lug 58kg, and unless she encounters traffic issues or something to that degree, this field will simply not get near her. The $1.65 with Bet365 is the wrong price, she should arguably be $1.20. Selections: 1 LEGARTO 2 BELCLARE 5 KONASANA 3 CAMPIONESSA New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes Race 5 – #1 Legarto (3) 5yo Mare | T: Ken & Bev Kelso | J: Ryan Elliot (57kg) Race 6: Group 1 New Zealand Stakes (2000m) Hong Kong-bound El Vencedor is chasing a third straight Group 1 win when he lines up in the 2025 New Zealand Stakes, and it is hard to see how his rivals get near him. He disposed of a similar field two runs back in the Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) by three lengths, and then dropped back in distance to win the WFA Classic (1600m) in similar fashion at this track on February 22. Wiremu Pinn will have this bloke on speed throughout, and if “Big EV” is in the same vein of form on Saturday as he has been in recent weeks, he will win again. Selections: 1 EL VENCEDOR 8 QALI AL FARRASHA 7 ORCHESTRAL 6 LA CRIQUE Best Bet Race 6 – #1 El Vencedor (4) 6yo Gelding | T: Stephen Marsh | J: Wiremu Pinn (59kg) Race 7: Group 2 Auckland Cup (3200m) There is plenty of value in this year’s Auckland Cup, with the Stephen Marsh-trained Nest Egg representing great value with horse racing betting sites. He put in a perfect Auckland Cup trial in the Group 3 Wellington Cup (3200m) when beaten two lengths behind the classy Wolfgang when running on strongly in potentially inferior ground. For a stayer, the son of Reliable Man has a nice turn of foot, and if George Rooke can find a bum to follow into the race, Nest Egg at $34 seems a great each-way bet. Selections: 8 NEST EGG 11 TAJANIS 4 SON OF SUN 1 INTERPRETATION Best Value Race 7 – #8 Nest Egg (12) 6yo Gelding | T: Stephen Marsh | J: George Rooke (53kg) Race 8: The NZB Kiwi (1500m) The Australian-based horses dominate the top of The NZB Kiwi market with Boombet, and it is the classy Evaporate who is a desrving favourite and looks hard to beat. The three-year-old gelding finished 2.8 lengths off the classy Angel Capital when held up for a major portion of the Caulfield home straight. He then finished 1.8 lengths off genuine WFA stars Mr Brightside, Tom Kitten and I Wish I Win in the Group 1 Futurity Stakes (1400m) after being caught three wide with no cover. Michael Dee will need a touch of luck from barrier 10, but with an economical run in transit, Evaporate should prove too hard to hold out. Selections: 1 EVAPORATE 2 PUBLIC ATTENTION 7 PERFUMIST 4 PENMAN The NZB Kiwi Race 8 – #1 Evaporate (10) 3yo Gelding | T: Ben, Will & JD Hayes | J: Michael Dee (59kg) Race 9: Group 1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) A field of 16 will battle it out in the 2025 New Zealand Derby, and if Tuxedo continues to improve he looks ideally suited. He was beaten a length in the Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) two starts back, and then last time out deadset trotted in the Group 2 Waikato Guineas (2000m) when putting 3.5 lengths on Bourbon Proof. There was a further 4.5 lengths back to third on that day to suggest this son of Tivaci will relish every bit of the 2400m with the right run in transit. He looks to be the one who will run out a strong 2400m, and as long as he isn’t caught wide from the widest barrier, Tuxedo will be thundering home late in the Derby. Selections: 2 TUXEDO 4 WILLYDOIT 1 THEDOCTOROFLOVE 3 BOURBON PROOF New Zealand Derby Race 9 – #2 Tuxedo (16) 3yo Gelding | T: Shaune Ritchie & Colm Murray | J: Joe Doyle (57kg) Race 10: Windsor Park Stud 3YO Trophy (1500m) Te Akau Racing’s Class is as honest as they come and drawn beautifully in barrier three, he looks hard to run down in the closer. The son of Embellish was beaten a half legnth in a tougher race last time out after leading the field up at Te Rapa over 1600m, and the step back to 1500m looks ideal for the natural frontrunner. Blake Shinn will look to pinch a break early in the home straight, and with race fitness on his side, hopefully Class will live up to his name in a bold front-running display. Selections: 2 CLASS 1 TARDELLI 5 PEERLESS 14 SHE’S ALL THAT Saturday quaddie tips for Ellerslie Ellerslie quadrella selections Saturday, March 8 1-4-6-8-11 1-2 1-2-3-4-5 1-2-5-9-10-14 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Lumber Punk after winning at Bendigo on March 11, 2022. (Brett Holburt/Racing Photos) Runner up in Darwin’s Palmerston Sprint (1200m) last year, Lumber Punk has returned to the NT and is eyeing Alice Springs’ $100,000 Pioneer Sprint (1200m) on April 5. The six-year-old gelding commences his Red Centre campaign on Saturday when he faces decent 0-70 opposition over 1200m at Pioneer Park. His fortunes once again rest with leading Darwin trainer Gary Clarke. Returning to South Australia following the 2024 Darwin Cup Carnival, Lumber Punk spent time with Murray Bridge trainers Matthew Sayers and Justin Pickering. The son of Starspangledbanner had 27 starts for Flemington trainers Leon and Troy Corstens for six wins at Moonee Valley, Geelong, Bendigo, Pakenham, Terang and Murray Bridge. It was after finishing 12th in a BM90 over 1175m at Albury that Lumber Punk ended up in the Top End. “The horse handles the dirt, he did go well in Darwin last year and ran second in a lead up to the Palmerston,” Clarke said from Alice Springs. “On that basis alone, if he can find that form once again he’d be a chance in the grand final (Pioneer Sprint) down here you would think. “He’s only been here a week and a half, but I’m really happy with how he’s arrived. “He’s a lovely horse, a big strong animal – the only knock against him is that he likes to settle in his races a bit too early.” In his first two Fannie Bay starts, Lumber Punk was fifth and fourth with 61.5kg and 61kg on his back. Settling at the rear next start over 1200m at weight-for-age, the former Victorian galloper rattled home with 58.5kg to get within 0.4 lengths of Early Crow. With 54kg for the $135,000 Palmerston Sprint a fortnight later, Lumber Punk was the $4.20 second favourite with horse racing betting sites. Way off the pace, the gelding was no chance at the 400m before winding up to finish 2.3 lengths adrift of Early Crow. “He was going to stay in Darwin after the Palmerston if he didn’t run well, but when he ran second the owners decided to send him back to Adelaide,” Clarke said. “He managed a fourth and third at Morphettville for Matthew Sayers.” Lumber Punk made two more appearances for Sayers before having two starts for Pickering where he was a last start sixth over 1200m in the 0-68 ranks at Morphettville on February 22. Clarke’s No.1 rider Jarrod Todd replaces the suspended Aaron Sweeney aboard Lumber Punk, who has 60.5kg and gate two on Saturday in the nine-horse field. “If he can get an uninterrupted run, he’ll be competitive,” Clarke added. “If he gets a fair crack at them, I expect him to probably take up one of the placings at least. “He’s here for the Pioneer Sprint, so he needs to run a pretty strong race on Saturday if he’s going to go on and be a chance in the Sprint.” Horse racing news View the full article