Wandering Eyes

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Rider Penalties W Pinn | Taupo 26 February; medical clearance required (subsequently received on 1 March). R Hutchings | Taupo 26 February; medical clearance required. M Cartwright | Waikato Trials 25 February (heard Taupo 26 February); failed to provide medical clearance; fined $200. S Mxothwa | Waverley 28 February; use of whip; fined $350. S Mxothwa | Waverley 28 February; careless riding; suspended 9-14 March inclusive. C Campbell | Otago 1 March; careless riding (2 charges); suspended 10-29 March inclusive R Muniandy | Otago 1 March; careless riding; suspended 2-9 March inclusive. M McNab | Marton 2 March; careless riding; suspended 9-21 March inclusive. Trainer Penalty S Marsh | Matamata 1 March; late rider declaration; fined $150. Horse Penalties SASSY LASS | Matamata 1 March; lame; veterinary clearance required. BELLA VOCE | Matamata 1 March; late scratching on veterinary advice; veterinary clearance required. STRANGE LOVE | Matamata 1 March; late scratching after failing to load; must complete trial. SABRINA HALL | Matamata 1 March; cardiac arrhythmia; veterinary clearance required. YOUNG DIVA | Taupo 26 February (heard Matamata 1 March); unsatisfactory performance; must complete trial. CHOUX MACHER | Otago 1 March; late scratching after becoming fractious in barriers; must complete trial. HAVARTI | Marton 2 March; epistaxis; stood down for 3 months and veterinary clearance required. The post 24 February – 2 March 2025 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Driver Penalties A Pyers | Manawatu 25 February; use of whip; suspended 26 February – 11 March inclusive. R May | NZ Metropolitan 25 February; out of position at start; fined $100. R Houghton | NZ Metropolitan 28 February; failed to drive to finish of race; suspended 1-14 March inclusive. B Ford | Rangiora 2 March; drove in a manner capable of diminishing chances; suspended 3 March – 4 April inclusive. Trainer Penalty D McCormick | Non-raceday dated 25 February; presented incorrect horse for trials meeting; fined $600. Horse Penalties JACCKA BAYLIS | Manawatu 25 February; lacerations to hind legs; veterinary clearance required. ESSENCE OF EASTON | NZ Metropolitan 25 February; unsatisfactory performance; must complete trial. ONELOVEONELIFE | NZ Metropolitan 25 February; unsatisfactory performance; must complete trial. KAWACTUS | NZ Metropolitan 25 February; broke in running; must complete trial. DOWNTOWN ORLANDO | NZ Metropolitan 25 February; broke in running; must complete trial. SON OF THE CLEANER | Winton 27 February; broke in running; must complete trial. VELOCITY JET | Winton 27 February; broke in running; must complete trial. IT AIN’T ME BABE | Auckland 28 February; entrapped epiglottis; veterinary clearance required. PLAYOFFS | NZ Metropolitan 28 February; broke in score up; must complete mobile start trial. SENIOR CONSTABLE LIZ | Rangiora 2 March; broke at start; must complete standing start trial. RUBY TUESDAY | Rangiora 2 March; refused to score up; must complete mobile start trial. Protest RUBY TUESDAY | Rangiora 2 March; displayed unsatisfactory manners prior to start; declared a non-runner. The post 24 February – 2 March 2025 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

With less than five weeks remaining to Dubai World Cup night at the sprawling Meydan Racecourse Apr. 5, the American challenge for the $12-million main event is coming together, with at least two U.S.-based middle-distance gallopers targeting the 2000-meter contest. Wathnan Racing's Hit Show (Candy Ride {Arg}) has come out of his distant third-place effort to 'TDN Rising Star' Locked (Gun Runner) in Saturday's GI Santa Anita Handicap in good order and connections have accepted an invitation to the World Cup, Case Clay, Wathnan's U.S. advisor, confirmed Sunday. “Will pow-wow with [trainer] Brad [Cox] again, but Hit Show is doing well and he ships well,” Clay commented. In his only other appearance this season, the 5-year-old ran home strongly from the back of the field for an impressive victory in a sloppy renewal of the GIII Louisiana Stakes at the Fair Grounds Jan. 18. Wathnan is also set to be represented in the G2 Godolphin Mile by Cagliostro (Upstart), who finished well to just lose a photo for third in the G3 Burj Nahaar on Super Saturday at Meydan, having finished third in his first local appearance, the G3 Firebreak Stakes Jan. 24. “We were proud of Cagliostro coming on at the end of the Burj Nahaar just like he did at the end of the Firebreak,” Clay said, adding that longer trips might be in Cagliostro's future as he gets on in age. Rattle N Roll (Connect) remains in Riyadh following his running-on fifth behind the World Cup-bound Forever Young (Jpn) (Real Steel {Jpn}) and likely G1 Dubai Turf favorite Romantic Warrior (Ire) (Acclamation {GB}) in the Feb. 22 G1 Saudi Cup. Trainer Ken McPeek confirmed that the World Cup is squarely the plan, pending an official invitation from the Dubai Racing Club. “He came out of the race super, we haven't been officially invited,” the conditioner said. “This horse has never had the chance to run 10 furlongs. He was going to get excluded from the Kentucky Derby, so didn't get to run there, and then got excluded in the Classic and that race would have set up for him. “I thought his run in Riyadh was a good run,” McPeek continued. “He didn't get beat far for third and three or four jumps past the wire, he collared those, so we're anxious and hopeful we get the invite and we're preparing to take a shot at it.” McPeek said that Rattle N Roll ships to Dubai one way or the other this coming Friday. “They've given us clearance to come to Dubai and train, but no invitation yet,” he said. Locked is unlikely to proceed to Dubai, Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners' Aron Wellman said via text on Sunday morning. “Not ruling anything out, but likely to stick to our guns and focus on a domestic campaign,” Wellman said. A pair of Dubai-bound runners breezed on either side of the continent Sunday morning. At Santa Anita, GI Malibu Stakes hero Raging Torrent (Maximus Mischief) went five furlongs in 1:00.60 (7/66) in preparation for an appearance in the G2 Godolphin Mile. Trainer Chief Stipe O'Neill has twice saddled the winner of that event, including Two Rivers Over (Tamarkuz) last March. Fergus Galvin, a U.S. advisor to Sheikh Fahad's Qatar Racing, confirmed that Nakatomi (Firing Line) will return to the desert for a second try at the G1 Dubai Golden Shaheen. The 6-year-old, a troubled third to Tuz (Oxbow) in the 2024 running, breezed a half-mile in a bullet :47.20 (1/47) for trainer Wesley Ward at Payson Park Sunday morning. Also awaiting Nakatomi in the Golden Shaheen is G2 Riyadh Dirt Sprint winner and 2024 champion sprinter Straight No Chaser (Speightster). Raging Torrent this morning at Santa Anita. pic.twitter.com/bRXg6AHJ4H — Chief Stipe O'Neill (@DougONeill1) March 2, 2025 The post U.S. Dubai World Cup Team Taking Shape appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

In response to the recent New York Times negative and factually incorrect article on the horse racing industry, I would argue that we, as an industry need to change our tack. The New York Times piece pulled three angles–animal cruelty, human exploitation, and the time honoured 'the rich are stealing your money.' How can any story based on such a narrative fail from raising temperatures? This was born out in the comment section at the end of the article, despite the quick action taken by Light Up Racing and Vicki Leonard to defend our sport, along with Bill Finley and Ray Paulick who both gallantly stepped up to try to restore our equilibrium. Was the damage control sufficient to hold back the growing momentum of unfavourable public opinion? I would charge that, worldwide as an industry we are not in good shape, and never will be until, we as an industry can relate to your everyday person on the street. We have the most wonderful game on the planet. It's unique, it's filled with passion and passionate people who care deeply for their horses. It's a high octane, adrenaline charged, globally connected industry. Our issue is that despite all our efforts we have yet to make substantial inroads into an evolving society. It has been said that a “Racehorse can take several thousand people for a ride at the same time.” I believe they can do even more than this, by creating a synergistic collaboration with Equine Assisted Services and Horse Racing. Thoroughbreds have already entered this field, and are making a huge difference in many different sectors across the board, not least of all in mental health and wellness. At a minimum an alliance between the two would: Enhance Public Perception: Integrating racing with equine therapy shows a commitment to society and horse welfare, helping to counter negative perceptions of the industry. It positions racing as a responsible, caring sector that values the horses not just for their athletic ability but, as being essential partners in human development, their bond with humans is both practical and emotional, making them one of the most important animals in history as living beings with significant value in post-race life. Expand Audience Reach: By aligning with EAS, racing reaches a broader, more diverse audience, including those who may not typically engage with the sport. This includes individuals interested in therapy, animal welfare, and community programs, thus broadening the appeal of racing and attracting new supporters who care about the horses' lives beyond the track. Foster Sustainability: The alliance with EAS also introduces sustainability into the racing industry, demonstrating how horses can transition into new roles after their racing careers. This helps secure the future of racing by showing that the sport is evolving and adapting to new standards of animal care and public expectations, while at the same time, demonstrating how horses have an integral role in society, perhaps more now than ever. Expand the Role of Horses in Society: This collaboration redefines the role of horses, expanding their presence and importance in society. Beyond entertainment and sport, horses become part of social change and healing, providing a profound sense of purpose for animals that have served the racing industry and benefitting individuals who may not have had access to such transformative experiences. What steps can we take to create this alliance? We, that means everyone can look at programs such as ABIJAHS at Canterbury Downs in Minnesota, and explore the possibility of similar programs being created, or existing ones around the country which could be paired to the different racetracks as a way to increase exposure and support for both the facility and racing. Familiarise yourselves with programs such as Stable Recovery, the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation's prison program, and Liskennett Equine Assisted Activity Centre in Ireland to learn first hand, the impact equine assisted services are having, and the science as to how and why it is so effective. And why governments around the world are taking note. Encourage racetracks, sales companies, equine suppliers, farms, owners and trainers to align with accredited EAS programs in their own geographical locations. We have a unique opportunity here to make a difference by changing the narrative. So let's begin by educating ourselves and spreading the word. Useful links for further information: Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance http://thoroughbredaftercare.org PATH International http://pathintl.org Horses for Mental Health https://horsesformentalhealth.org Suzi Prichard-Jones is the author of BYERLEY, The Thoroughbred's Ticking Time Bomb and founder of the Byerley & Godolphin Conservation Project. The post Letter to the Editor: Change of Tack appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Legion Racing's Drexel Hill (Bolt d'Oro) overcame a stumble at the start to post a rallying score in Saturday's Listed Busher Invitational, a one-turn mile for sophomore fillies, at Aqueduct Racetrack. In victory, the Whit Beckman trainee secured 50 Kentucky Oaks qualifying points, joining stablemates Simply Joking (Practical Joke)–campaigned by Grantley Acres, Ryan Conner and Berkels0813–and Grantley Acres' homebred Her Laugh (Practical Joke) as contenders for the 'Lilies for the Fillies' on the first Friday in May at Churchill Downs. In Saturday's one-turn test, Drexel Hill was returning from a third-place finish in the one-mile and 70-yard Silverbulletday Stakes on Jan. 18 at Fair Grounds. “It was a little bit of a gamble on the cutback, but we got it figured out and hopefully when we get her back around two turns it won't be so gut-wrenching,” Beckman said. “The first half-mile of the race didn't go the way we were hoping between the break and her lack of enthusiasm down the backside–it wasn't real comforting going to the turn, but it took a 180 on us and things went the right way from there. The $50,000 Keeneland September Yearling Sale purchase launched her career at Woodbine with four starts over Tapeta for trainer Barbara Minshall, including a six-length graduation in November sprinting seven furlongs. “Early on she wanted to pull to the inside just slightly and that kind of bit gives a little more control on the steering,” Beckman explained. “In her first start for us, she put herself in a bad spot and it was tough to get her off the rail. “We made a couple equipment adjustments in the Silverbulletday to add blinkers and a different bit,” Beckman continued. “I thought we kind of overshot the mark, she got a little too keen in the Silverbulletday and put herself really close – closer than I anticipated. In her training between this race and the Silverbulletday we pulled the blinkers off, and she was working really well, super relaxed and doing everything comfortably on her own, so we didn't think the blinkers were going to be necessary in the Busher.” Beckman confirmed that Drexel Hill exited the effort in good order and will ship back to Turfway Park Monday. According to Beckman, the nine-furlong GIII Gazelle on Apr. 5, a 100-50-25-15-10 Oaks qualifier, appears likely. “We've got nine weeks to the Oaks and ideally, you'd like to give her another start,” Beckman said. “We'll see how she reacts when we get her back home. An extra eighth of a mile going around two turns should give her a little more time to work everything out.” Beckman said that Simply Joking [20 points] will look to extend her record to 3-for-3 in either the GII Fantasy [100-50-25-15-10] on Mar. 29 at Oaklawn or the GI Central Bank Ashland [100-50-25-15-10] on Apr. 4 at Keeneland; while Her Laugh [20 points] will point to the GII Fair Grounds Oaks [100-50-25-15-10] on Mar. 22. The post Drexel Hill Exits Busher in Good Order, Targets Oaks Qualifier Gazelle Next appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Dual Hong Kong champion trainer David Hayes immediately set his sights on the HK$26-million BMW Hong Kong Derby in three weeks' time with Rubylot (Aus), following a stellar performance from the son of Rubick (Aus) to win Sunday's HK$13-million Hong Kong Classic Cup at Sha Tin. Settled at the rear of the field with only one behind through the early stages, Rubylot and Brenton Avdulla tracked Mickley (Ire) (Soldier's Call {GB}) into the straight, before angling into the clear and accelerating powerfully with a race-best 22.30-second sectional for the final 400 metres of the 1,800-metre contest. Atoning for a luckless sixth in the HK$13-million Hong Kong Classic Mile on his previous start, Rubylot overhauled the winner of that race, My Wish (Aus) (Flying Artie {Aus}), to win by three quarters of a length in a time of 1:46.29, with the fast-finishing Johannes Brahms (GB) (Siyouni {Fr}) the same distance further back in third. In clinching the second leg of the Four-Year-Old Classic Series, Rubylot improved his record to six wins and eight placings from 18 starts for his owners, the HK Football Club Horse Racing Syndicate, while taking his earnings to HK$14.5 million. Now, all roads lead to the Hong Kong Derby, which Hayes last won in 2003 with Elegant Fashion (Aus) (Danewin {Aus}), who was the first filly to triumph in Hong Kong's most-coveted race since Corvette (Aus) (Biarritz {Ire}) in 1976. “It would be very nice [to win another Hong Kong Derby],” said Hayes. “It's been a long time. It's one of the races everyone in Hong Kong wants to win. To my eye, he [Rubylot] was the strongest late and that's a good sign stepping up to the 2,000 metres. Being a Rubick you were always concerned, but he's out of a Dubawi mare and stoutly-bred on the dam side. “You always look at this race to find the closers and that's a good pointer to the Derby. I don't think anyone ran home faster than him today. It was a brilliant sectional.” The victory of Rubylot was the first leg of a treble on the card for jockey Avdulla, who was the still cursing the poor luck the pair endured when they finished sixth in the Hong Kong Classic Mile. “Hayesey had the horse [Rubylot] spot on,” said Avdulla. “He had a nice run through and I was confident at the 250 [metres] he was going to get the job done. I've got no doubt if he drew a gate in the [Hong Kong Classic Mile] he would have gone very close. I was just back in no man's land and he still ran on well, so I was confident enough to stick with him to come to 1,800 metres. “I thought the draw [barrier eight] was a little bit tricky again and, ideally, I would have been a bit closer. But it just didn't look any good after 50 [metres] so I just rode him quiet and my only decision was whether I go inside Mickley or around him. I just felt I was going good enough to get Mickley out of the way when I cornered and to his credit the horse found the line really well.” Pedigree Notes Bred in Australia by Woodpark Stud, Rubylot sold as a two-year-old for A$100,000 at the Inglis Ready2Race Sale. He is the third winner from four runners out of the Dubawi (Ire) mare Emirates Comfort (Ire) who, in turn, is out of the GI Beverly D. Stakes and G2 Prix de Malleret heroine Royal Highness (Ger) (Monsun {Ger}). Whilst Emirates Comfort retired as a a three-race maiden, Royal Highness is the dam of seven winners, including the G2 Prix Dollar and G2 Prix Hocquart scorer Free Port Lux (GB) (Oasis Dream {GB}). This is also the family of the GI Breeders' Cup Turf hero Yibir (GB) and the triple Group 1 winner Wild Illusion (GB). They are both by Dubawi (Ire) and out of the Listed scorer Rumh (Ger) (Monsun {Ger}), whose dam, Royal Dubai (Ger) (Dashing Blade {GB}), is a Group 3-winning half-sister to Royal Highness. Sunday, Sha Tin, Hong Kong HONG KONG CLASSIC CUP-Listed, HK$13,000,000, Sha Tin, 3-2, NH/SH4yo, 1800mT, 1:46.29, gd. 1–RUBYLOT (AUS), 126, g, 4, by Rubick (Aus) 1st Dam: Emirates Comfort (Ire), by Dubawi (Ire) 2nd Dam: Royal Highness (Ger), by Monsun (Ger) 3rd Dam: Reem Dubai (Ire), by Nashwan 1ST BLACK-TYPE WIN. (A$100,000 HRA '22 INGOCT). O-HK Football Club Horse Racing Syndicate. B-Woodpark Stud (Aus). T-David Hayes. J-Brenton Avdulla. HK$7,280,000. Lifetime Record: 18-6-3-5, HK$14,546,001. Werk Nick Rating: F. Click for the eNicks report & 5-cross pedigree or the free Equineline.com catalogue-style pedigree. 2–My Wish (Aus), 126, g, 4, Flying Artie (Aus)–Set The Tone (Aus), by Reset (Aus). O-Ada Che Xiao Hong, Suki Tang Xianfang & Ruby Hui Like Sea. B-Mr. J Langridge (Aus). T-Mark Newnham. J-Luke Ferraris. HK$2,730,000. 3–Johannes Brahms (GB), 126, g, 4, Siyouni (Fr)–Illaunmore, by Shamardal. (200,000gns Ylg '22 TATOCT). O-Yau Kwok Fai. B-Chasemore Farm (GB). T-Pierre Ng. J-Karis Teetan. HK$1,495,000. Margins: 3/4, 3/4, NK. Odds: 135-10, 42-10, 15-1. Also Ran: Packing Angel (NZ), Steps Ahead (Aus), Stunning Peach (Ire), Packing Hermod (Aus), Californiatotality (Aus), Cap Ferrat (Aus), Divano (Aus), Mondial (SAf), Sky Trust (Aus), Noisy Boy (Aus), Mickley (Ire). Click for the HKJC chart, PPs, and sectional timing. VIDEO. The post Derby Next for Rubylot after Dominant Hong Kong Classic Cup Triumph appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

During 2019, we were fortunate to have Pat Smullen as a regular and immensely popular columnist for TDN. The struggle the former champion jockey faced in his life at that stage never coloured the effort and enthusiasm he put into reporting his weekly thoughts and valuable insights on racing. One aspect that really shone through was how much he was dedicated to encouraging the younger members of the weighing-room, not to mention boosting the profile of the sport as a whole. That determination to help others was seen again in his efforts to raise funds for Cancer Trials Ireland. At the Irish Champions Festival of 2019, some €2.6 million was raised through the Pat Smullen Champions Race and other events surrounding the weekend. Exactly 12 months later, Smullen died, but his vital fundraising work has been continued by his family and the dedicated committee of the Pat Smullen Pancreatic Cancer Fund, which has subsequently raised almost €1 million more, largely through the annual charity race day run in the jockey's name at the Curragh, which was launched in 2021. “Our aim is to make it to a million this year,” says Smullen's widow Frances Crowley, who has been the driving force behind ensuring that the funding for trials now being conducted continues to help others afflicted by cancer. “Every year for the past few years, we've tried a few different things. But we have the charity race that worked really well and we're starting to put out a call now for people to think about if they'd maybe like to do it. And we have the the Curragh to Curragh cycle ride, which is 100 kilometres, and actually it's a really feelgood occasion as well. “A lot of the riders in the charity race have ridden in memory of somebody or for somebody, and Pat usually organises a bit of nice weather for us as well.” She continues, “Whenever we have a meeting with the board of the Pat Smullen Fund, you just come away thinking, 'Wow, to be involved with these people who are so brilliant at what they're doing.' It gives you a bit of a kick to go and do it all over again for another year.” Hannah Smullen with the mosaic of her father at the Curragh | Racingfotos From an original idea by Smullen's oncologist Ray McDermott, in 2024 Professor Grainne O'Kane was appointed to the Pat Smullen Chair in Pancreatic Cancer at University College Dublin (UCD). Described by Crowley as “scarily impressive”, O'Kane is already making an impact in this role. “Just to see it making such a big difference is humbling,” says Crowley. “With patience and time, Grainne is really able to work on trials, on bringing trials to Ireland. I do think it's going to make a huge difference to pancreatic cancer. It gathers its own momentum through her, and it does more even than what the Pat Smullen Fund can achieve. She puts things in motion and we get investment from other places with that, and it brings more trials to Ireland. It's amazing really, and I think Pat just wanted it to go directly to the people who knew what to do with it, straight to the medical profession.” Crowley says that the focus has been placed on the genetic aspect of the disease and in trying to establish which people may be more predisposed to being afflicted by pancreatic cancer. “There's never going to be a big cure, we're never going to stop it,” she says. “But, certainly with pancreatic cancer, if you catch it early you have a better chance of treating it. “If you can reach that group of people and you're giving them help with screening, it actually could do a huge amount that way, by catching it early so that these people don't get into a life-threatening situation.” Clearly, the regular updates on the progress being made in the trials has not only a galvanising effect on fundraising efforts, but offers some solace to the Smullen family, as does the ongoing response from their many friends in racing. “The racing community has been amazing,” Crowley says. “They are the people who have supported us, and that's where all the money is coming from at the end of the day. The Breeze-up Consignors Association sponsored the charity race last year because a lot of their families had been touched by cancer. People have been so good.” Pat Smullen aboard Free Eagle at Royal Ascot | Racingfotos Smullen's name lives on at the races in more ways than one, and this year sees the launch of the Smullen Series by the Irish EBF. The 18-race series is for juveniles and three-year-olds with the intention of providing a progression for those horses bred more for middle distances. It includes a new two-year-old listed race at Naas, named the Irish EBF Pat Smullen Stakes, and the €200,000 Gowran Classic. Crowley says, “It's lovely to see Pat's name continue to be honoured and being recognised, so we're really grateful for the Smullen Series and the new listed race in Naas. “It's quite appropriate as Pat was associated with so many good middle-distance or staying horses, like Harzand, Fascinating Rock, Vinnie Roe and Rite Of Passage.” Crowley was a decent former amateur rider herself – not to mention a Classic-winning trainer – and both she and Smullen are being followed in this regard by their children. Hannah and Paddy have already ridden in the race in their father's memory on the Pat Smullen Charity Race Day, with their younger sister Sarah, a budding eventer, giving it consideration for when she is old enough to compete. “We are putting out the call for expressions of interest for this year's race now, and we usually get oversubscribed. I must give special mention to Charlie O'Neill, who raised a huge amount last year, I think he raised €40,000 on his own,” Crowley says. With Hannah and Paddy Smullen both now holding amateur licences, Crowley recently resubscribed to a training licence, but anyone hoping to see the talented trainer of Irish 1,000 Guineas winner Saoire and Grade 1-winning chaser Moscow Express (Ire) back on the racecourse more regularly should brace themselves for disappointment. “It was really just for fun,” she says at the family's Brickfield Stud in County Offaly. “The kids wanted to see what it was like to train one and bring one to the races. But do you know what? I actually love breeding. I actually love the mares and the foals and bringing the foals to the sales. My heart's not in the training any more.” Brickfield is home to eight mares, and its graduates include last year's G2 Queen Mary Stakes third Maw Lam (Ire) (Acclamation {GB}). “That was just so exciting, having a runner at Royal Ascot that we bred. I don't even feel that I need to own them,” she continues. “We have a few now this year, that's the first crop of a bigger bunch of foals that we sold. They're all two-year-olds now, so that's going to be exciting. “But, look, it's good to have the option of the trainer's licence because maybe in the future I think this place would suit getting a little two-year-old going. But I have no aspirations to start training again.” Smullen and Crowley at Brickfield Stud with Bobbi Grace, dam of Maw Lam Hannah Smullen, whom her mother describes as “very focused, very like Pat”, is now in her final year reading law at Trinity College Dublin, while Paddy is treading a path that their father knew so well by riding out for Dermot Weld before school. Sitting alongside his mother and regularly contributing to the conversation with reminders about horse names and pedigrees, he is clearly the next member of the family likely to be forging a full-time role in the racing business once his studies are over. As lunch wraps up, he and Sarah are dispatched into the yard to exercise the resident small string of one racehorse and a few eventers. “I'm just keeping fit and keeping my foot in the door,” Paddy says of his riding-out duties. “[Dermot Weld]'s been very good to me and given me a few chances so far, so hopefully more to come. I will go back into Gordon Elliott's during the summer as well; Gordon gave me the spin in the charity race.” Paddy has been fleshing out his knowledge with an obligatory stint of bidspotting at Goffs, as well as leading up for neighbours Ringfort Stud at the sales and completing work experience at Kildangan Stud. His mother, meanwhile, talks of him becoming an accountant. We'll see who wins that battle. He says of his mornings at Weld's Rosewell House on the Curragh, where his father was stable jockey for 20 years, “They're all very nice to me in there. And Tom Daly, the head lad, even drops me over to school afterwards.” As Paddy rides away on his eventer, the initials PJS on the back of his hat silk in the colours of Moyglare Stud, it's hard not to think of the person missing from this scene. But, in so many ways, Pat Smullen is still very much around, not least in the continued drive to raise funds in his name to help others to live for longer. That's a legacy every bit as important as any Group 1 winner he ever rode. Details of this year's Pat Smullen Charity Race Day, which takes place at the Curragh on Saturday, August 30, can be found here. Budding riders wishing to participate in this year's race should email charityrace@curragh.ie and further details about the Pat Smullen Pancreatic Cancer Fund can be accessed via this link. The post ‘The Racing Community Has Been Amazing’: Frances Crowley Lauds Support of Pat Smullen Fund appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

There is one moment that still sticks out to April Mayberry from Zenyatta's time at her family's farm in Ocala. From the day the daughter of Street Cry (Ire) arrived at Mayberry Farm, she was straightforward but not necessarily a standout. That is, until the future superstar had her first breeze. Mayberry's mother Jeanne instructed rider Ronaldo Rodas to take it easy, let the filly follow behind four or five other 2-year-olds and see how she handled it. As the story goes, in a move that would later become her trademark, Zenyatta started picking off horses one by one as they came down the stretch. “I remember my mother saying that we either had one really good horse or a lot of bad ones,” Mayberry recalled. “As it turned out, the other ones that were breezing were no slouches, but she just galloped past them like, 'See you around' and that's something that will always stand out because that was a moment where you're like, 'Oh man, she's something special.'” Over the past nearly two decades since, Zenyatta has been an integral part of the Mayberrys' lives. The Hall of Famer is one of their most accomplished graduates and whenever the Mayberrys are in Kentucky, they make a point of visiting the mare at Lane's End Farm. Nymue and Ronaldo Rodas during a morning of training at Mayberry Farm | Katie Petrunyak The Mayberrys have also brought up all of Zenyatta's progeny. Over an oftentimes troubled breeding career, the champion has produced only four horses of racing age to date. Two of those have made the starting gate, though neither found the winner's circle. After foaling a War Front filly in 2023, Zenyatta was retired from breeding at the age of 19. This year, the Mayberrys are relishing a bittersweet chapter in their story with Zenyatta as her daughter Nymue, the War Front filly who is the last of Zenyatta's progeny, undergoes the breaking and training process at Mayberry. With her dark bay coat and a striking blaze, Nymue bears a strong resemblance to her dam. When she arrived at Mayberry Farm this past October, the team there learned that, like Zenyatta, this filly has a strong personality. “She has the characteristics and the mannerisms of her mother,” said Mayberry. “Zenyatta was pretty straightforward. She liked to train. She went out in her paddock, ate grass, went in, ate, and then slept. She was a little bit like a cat that says, 'Pet me' and then, 'Okay now I'm bored of you.' It's the same thing with this filly. She loves attention and then when she's done, she's like, 'Okay now I want to go eat. Leave me alone.' She's very smart and easy to do everything with, so it's pretty exciting so far.” Zenyatta and Nymue in 2023 at Lane's End | Sarah Andrew Ronaldo Rodas, who broke Zenyatta back in the day, has also started all of her sons and daughters. He echoed the sentiment that Nymue shares some similarities with her dam. “I'm happy with her,” he said. “I enjoy every day that I get to ride her. When I take her to the track, for those 15 or 20 minutes I am happy. I hope she can be a good one. She's like her mother. She's got a good mind, so sweet, and she's a nice mover.” Most mornings, Nymue enjoys turnout time with her paddock mate, a Jimmy Creed filly, before going out to the track for training. The Mayberrys are in no hurry with the June-foaled filly. “She's done everything right and we have to keep remembering that she's a very late foal,” said Mayberry. “She's on pace with everybody else on the farm, so we're just letting her tell us where she wants to go next. There's no rush and I am a big believer in letting them tell us what they need and what they want.” Shuggy (outside) trains at Mayberry Farm | Katie Petrunyak This is hardly the final chapter in the Mayberry's association with Zenyatta. Along with Nymue, this year's crop at Mayberry Farm includes Shuggy, the first foal out of Zenyatta's oldest daughter Zellda (Medaglia d'Oro). The April-foaled Twirling Candy colt is named after Lane's End farm manager Todd Claunch's dog Shug. “He's a typical boy,” reported Mayberry. “He's a little rough and tumble and a little more rambunctious, but he loves to train so that's always a plus. They have to want to do it and he certainly seems like he wants to do it.” While the Mayberry team is looking forward to seeing more of Zenyatta's “grandchildren” in the coming years, they can't help but hope that first, Nymue might be able to build upon Zenyatta's legacy on the racetrack. “I don't know,” reflected Mayberry. “Maybe she saved the best one for last.” The post Best for Last? Zenyatta’s Final Foal On Track at Mayberry Farm appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Dane McLeod/Kristen Manning/TTR AusNZ The 2025 Inglis Premier Yearling Sale saw fireworks on day one, with two standout colts reaching the coveted A$1 million mark, igniting excitement at Oaklands Junction as they become only the fourth and the fifth horses to reach that significant mark at this particular sale. Lot 201 – Frankel (GB) x Heavenly Curlin (Curlin) (colt) – A$1,000,000 American John Stewart, under his banner of Resolute Bloodstock, joined forces with the McEvoy Mitchell Racing and Belmont Bloodstock (FBAA) team to make a significant impact on day one, triumphing in an intense bidding war for Lot 201 and securing the Frankel colt for A$1 million. The colt is the second foal of Group 3-winning American mare Heavenly Curlin and he comes from the esteemed family of Redoute's Choice (Aus). It was a major moment for Rosemont Stud, as he became only the second horse they have ever offered to reach the A$1 million mark. Anthony Mithen proudly stated, “Unbelievable. Proud of the horse, proud of the farm, proud of the staff, and Kelsie, our yearling manager. I know what they will be doing in our row right now–they will be going mental. “To achieve a result like that on your home deck–in football terms, we're playing at home this week–and it feels pretty good with the black shorts on. “I'm still shaking a bit. It's a lot of money, and it takes a lot to get your horses here. You held your breath on multiple occasions, but we got there. It's a sense of relief but also a great sense of achievement.” He added, “John Stewart–I hope he's having a party somewhere in the world. He's a world force. He's my sort of guy, especially when he's got a million to spend on a Rosemont yearling. “He was a horse that we really thought would be a headliner here in Melbourne. We want to support our backyard–we are proudly Victorian–and we feel like we're doing some good things for the Victorian breeding and racing industry. You've got to put your best horses where your mouth is when you say those things and back it up with your stock.” Calvin McEvoy was understandably thrilled, saying, “He was a star colt from the first time I saw him. “He's by Frankel, who is a star stallion, and he has a lovely American family. I would like to acknowledge and thank John Stewart for backing us–it's great to have him on board. “We love everything about him. He handled the sale so well and we are excited to have him. He is a blue-chip investment.” Another $1 million dollar lot! Lot 201 (Frankel x Heavenly Curlin) from @RosemontStud sells to @resracingky / @jstewartrr for $1,000,000. Congratulations to all involved in the colt. #InglisPremier pic.twitter.com/89TjQsnnSL — Inglis (@inglis_sales) March 2, 2025 Lot 197 – Toronado (Ire) x Hardly Surprising (Aus) (All Too Hard {Aus}) (colt) – A$1,000,000 Toronado has long been an outstanding stallion, enjoying numerous highlights both on the racetrack and in the sales ring. However, a new high came on Sunday afternoon when his colt, Lot 197, from the draft of Gilgai Farm, sold for A$1 million to the bid of Andrew Williams Bloodstock (FBAA) and Hong Kong Bloodstock. This athletic colt is the fifth foal out of the Group 3-placed All Too Hard mare, Hardly Surprising, who has already produced the winner The Swooper (Aus) (Divine Prophet {Aus}). He is part of the crop where Toronado served his first book of mares at an A$88,000 fee (inc. GST), and breeder Rick Jamieson was ecstatic with the unexpected price. He said, “I would have been rapt with getting about four times his service fee, so the price was very unexpected. I just love Toronado.” The co-purchaser Andrew Williams expressed his excitement, saying, “It's very special to buy a horse like this. We probably expected to be in that price bracket, and we knew he was going to get there quickly–it was just a matter of when it would stop. “All I can say is I'm very grateful to be able to buy a horse like this. He's a bloody ripper and he comes off a very good nursery in Gilgai. I went back to 2018 when Masked Crusader sold here, found the picture of him and the walking video, and they look very similar. “He's been purchased for a Hong Kong client who has some really good horses up there at the moment, and we joined forces with Anthony Fang from Hong Kong Bloodstock. “We had been waiting for this horse–we purposely didn't buy at Magic Millions, we purposely didn't buy in New Zealand or Classic. We've been waiting for this horse. He added, “I have seen him every day since Tuesday, and he's only gotten better and better, I think. Unbelievably forward horse, a lot of strength about him, fantastic head, unbelievable temperament–he's handled it so well. “Rick Jamieson has bred some bloody good horses in his time. We put a lot of faith in those good nurseries. He will go to New Zealand next week to be gelded and then get broken in, and then we will see how he goes.” Wow! Lot 197 (Toronado x Hardly Surprising) from the @GilgaiFarm draft sells for an incredible $1,000,000 to @AWilliamsBldstk! All the best to those involved with this colt! #InglisPremier pic.twitter.com/ixXsU97lIT — Inglis (@inglis_sales) March 2, 2025 At A Glance Day 1 of the 2025 Inglis Premier Yearling Sale saw 177 of the 283 lots offered sold, recording a clearance of 70 per cent. The figure is slightly below Day 1 of the 2024 Inglis Premier Yearling Sale, where 187 lots sold at a clearance rate of 74 per cent at the close of day–a rate which rose to 86 per cent after several days. Day 1's gross amount of A$26,142,000 is almost the same as the Day 1 aggregate of A$26,124,000 in 2024, which was down from the 2023 Day 1 figure of A$28,215,000. The 2025 Day 1 average was A$147,695 higher than the A$139,701 at the same point in 2024, with a median of A$110,000 up from 2024's Day 1 figure of A$105,000. These compared favourably to 2023's average and median figures of A$136,966 and A$100,000, respectively. Two colts made seven figures, both at A$1 million each, to top the day's proceedings, being Lot 197 a Toronado (Ire) colt from Hardly Surprising (Aus) (All Too Hard {Aus}) sold by Gilgai Farm to Andrew Williams Bloodstock (FBAA) and Hong Kong Bloodstock, and Lot 201 a Frankel (GB) colt from Heavenly Curlin (Curlin) sold by Rosemont Stud to Resolute Racing, McEvoy Mitchell Racing and Belmont Bloodstock. The leading buyer by aggregate on Day 1 was Hong Kong trainer Ricky Yiu who bought five horses for A$1.28 million, while the leading buyer by average (TWO or more bought) was Yulong who purchased two yearlings for a total of A$660,000 or an average of A$330,000. Yulong were the leading vendors by aggregate on Day 1, selling 17 yearlings for A$3.17 million, while Gilgai Farm was the leading vendor by average (two or more sold) with an average of A$367,500 achieved for their four horses sold. Courtesy of their joint sale toppers, Toronado (Ire) and Frankel (GB) lead the sires by aggregate and average with Toronado selling five yearlings for a total of A$1.91 million and Frankel's pair achieving a sum of A$1.36 million which gave him an average price of A$680,000. With most other sales this year having either a colt or filly bias, it was interesting to note that the average price for colts was A$147,200 and the average price for fillies on Day 1 was A$148,300. The post Frankel and Toronado Colts Top Day One of the Inglis Premier Yearling Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Caspar Fownes-trained three-year-old blows his rivals away, stopping the clock more than a second inside standard.View the full article

A week after Ka Ying Rising’s third Group One win of the season, the Australian handler delivers again at Sha Tin.View the full article

Australian jockey salutes with three of his four mounts on an afternoon when six overseas jockeys suited up at Sha Tin.View the full article

Leica Lucy (NZ) (Derryn) displayed exactly why she is the overwhelming favourite for the upcoming $1 million Gr.1 Al Basti Equiworld New Zealand Oaks (2400m), with a fourth-straight Group victory in Sunday’s Gr.2 Jennian Homes Lowland Stakes (2100m). An unstoppable force out of the Central Districts, Leica Lucy was a winner on debut and Robbie Patterson, who trains her out of New Plymouth, stamped her as an Oaks filly from that moment forward. After a narrow second to Wingman at the following start, Leica Lucy has not been beaten since, dominating her way through the Gr.3 Eulogy Stakes (1600m), Gr.3 Desert Gold Stakes (1600m) and Gr.2 David and Karyn Ellis Fillies’ Classic (2000m). There was little doubt from punters that she would continuing her winning stampede in the Oaks dress rehearsal, shortening from an opening quote of $1.50 into $1.22, with her closest rival Connello closing at $10. After getting on-toe in the parade, Leica Lucy was a consummate professional at the barriers and jumped away positively, with regular rider Craig Grylls holding his position on the inside to land on the rail trailing the leader in Prestissimo. A moderate tempo quickened as the field neared the home turn and Leica Lucy was travelling like the winner a long way out, and when Grylls let her go at the 250m, it was game over, the filly charging clear to score by an extending 3 – ½ lengths to an honest Myakkabelle. Other meritorious runs with the upcoming Oaks in consideration came from third and fourth placegetters Dubai Gold and Thrilling. Grylls had already steered home One Bold Gigolo for Patterson earlier in the meeting, and when it comes to Leica Lucy, he has the upmost praise for the filly. “I didn’t have to use her as such (at the start), but just dig to hold my spot because they were going to rush around,” he said. “As you’ve seen before the race, she got quite worked up today, but as soon as she jumped out of the barriers, she comes straight back to you and switches off. I was able to get off (the rail) and she’s improving all the time, that was even better than last time. “She does it without really being asked too, I was pretty soft on her but she just loves it and runs through the line.” While Patterson has trained the likes of Coventina Bay, Puntura and One Bold Cat to top-flight victories in recent years, he holds Leica Lucy in the highest regard as the best horse to come out of his successful operation. “She’s not even screwed down yet, she’s an unbelievable horse and I’ve never had one like it,” he said. “I think she’ll be screwed down in three weeks’ time, that’s been the goal since the day she won her first start and I’m looking forward to that. “We all know she’s going to Chris Waller’s, and you know what, Caulfield Cup maybe next year, or the Queensland Oaks this year, she is the real deal.” The Oaks will be Leica Lucy’s final appearance for Patterson before she heads across the Tasman to join the Waller powerhouse, with the million-dollar feature being run back on the champagne turf on March 22. “I can’t plod her along, I’ve purposely left her a little bit fresh and I know I can’t leave her too fresh, because you can’t win an Oaks behaving like that,” Patterson said. “I’ll tighten up the screws a little bit on her, but even if I stuff up, she makes up for it on her ability.” Sunday’s success increased Leica Lucy’s earnings to just shy of $440,000, with five wins and a second placing from six starts. Her first four appearances were representing owner-breeders Heather and Peter Crofskey, before prominent Australian owner Ozzie Kheir purchased a share in the daughter of Derryn. View the full article

Talented sprinter Lhasa (Hellbent) is a force to be reckoned with on Cambridge’s synthetic track and he brought that form to the turf at Trentham on Sunday, taking down a quality field in the IRT 1200. Prepared by Mark Treweek, Lhasa had recorded each of his four prior victories on all-weather at his home course, while Trentham has also been a happy hunting ground, picking up placings behind the likes of Nereus, Loch In Ora and at his most recent start, Platinum Attack. Despite the form on course, Lhasa was slightly underrated in the market for the open handicap and closed at $9.80, with Insatiable on top at $4.30. Carrying just 53kgs courtesy of Tayla Mitchell’s one-kilogram claim, Lhasa crossed from a wide gate and sat outside of Idyllic, who showed her customary speed up-front. Mitchell began to stoke up Lhasa as they neared the course proper and he continued to build that momentum in the straight, the gelding still having plenty in the tank to hold off Silent Is Gold and a storming Insatiable at the post by a half-neck. Treweek had been confident in the gelding’s trackwork and was rapt to see that transfer to race-day. “He’d worked very well during the week and he always races well fresh,” he said. “We thought that with the lightweight on, the instructions were to go forward and get going when you get across the crossing, and go for it. We had to go forward just with the way they are racing today and it paid off. “She (Mitchell) rode him 100%, I’m very happy.” As a 75-rated galloper prior to the race, Lhasa will be up to open company and Treweek hopes to return for the upcoming feature meetings on the champagne turf. “I’m hoping that because I’m friends with Bruce Sherwin (chief handicapper) that he will be nice to me (with ratings), but probably not,” Treweek quipped. “I’d love to come back for the next two meetings if there is something for him.” A five-year-old by Hellbent, Lhasa was co-bred by Kia Ora Stud in Scone and is raced by the Treweek family. In 23 starts, he has earned over $120,000 with five wins and six minor placings. View the full article

Stephen and Kevin Gray needed to see a winning performance from Sword In Stone (NZ) (Redwood) to consider tackling next Saturday’s Gr.2 Barfoot and Thompson Auckland Cup (3200m), and the evergreen nine-year-old duly delivered at Trentham on Sunday. A son of Redwood, Sword In Stone was purchased by Stephen Gray for just $33,000 at the National Yearling Sales and was initially trained by Lauren Brennan, who prepared him to place in the Gr.2 Waikato Guineas (2000m) in 2019 before continuing his career in Hong Kong. Racing as Columbus County, the gelding earned over HK$13.7 million in five seasons and was twice a Group One placegetter. After proving himself among the best staying gallopers in the competitive jurisdiction, Sword In Stone’s former trainer Caspar Fownes sent the gelding back to New Zealand in search of more suitable options in the twilight of his career. The gelding immediately made an impression in his homeland, starting off on a winning note as a $43 chance over a mile at Otaki in December. In two starts following, the Sword In Stone finished at the tail in the Gr.3 Trentham Stakes (2100m), but was back in form finishing second to Heart Of Gold at Wanganui, warranting a final opportunity to prove himself a true prospect for the $600,000 showpiece at Ellerslie on Champions Day. Well-respected in the market as a $6 third-favourite, Sword In Stone had the services of Michael McNab and the top hoop gave him the perfect run in transit, settling in the one-one outside of Titicaca. Ruby Rocks dictated the tempo throughout, and on straightening, Sword In Stone and Titicaca began to fight out the finish, with the former having the edge late to score by a half-head. Sword In Stone was the second of a winning treble for McNab, also guiding Ballon d’Or and Slipper Island to victories through the card. “He switched off well, the speed of the race was good for a small field,” he said. “I thought the second horse (Titicaca) had me covered turning in and he was able to dictate to me being a big horse, but he was brilliant.” Stephen Gray was thrilled with the effort, particularly when considering he was giving away four kilograms to the second placegetter. “I’m rapt, he’s a nine-year-old and for our little team that we’re building, for him to come back and do that with 60 kilos is a pretty good effort,” he said. “He’s a lovely horse and we looked after him, we’ve taken our time and that run last week brought him on.” Sword In Stone is raced by Gray and his wife Bridget, who will have plenty to think about over the coming days. “He’s in there (Auckland Cup) and I forgot to take him out after the last ones (withdrawals), and Bridget said to me, do you know how it costs to put him in there?” Gray said. “But I’m not sure, I’ll talk to my partners and see how we go.” The victory was Sword In Stone’s fifth in 44 starts, accumulating over $2.8 million in stakes earnings. He is out of a Kilimanjaro mare Spirit Of Sandford, who has also produced Secret Spirit, a four-time stakes winner including the Gr.3 Bonecrusher Stakes (1400m). View the full article

Cambridge Stud principals Brendan and Jo Lindsay have announced the acquisition of a 50% stake in exciting three-year-old filly Pivotal Ten (NZ) (Ten Sovereigns) from her owner, Colin Wightman. The daughter of Ten Sovereigns will carry the stud’s black and gold colours in next Saturday’s $3.5m NZB Kiwi at Ellerslie. “Jo and I are thrilled to be involved with Pivotal Ten,” Brendan Lindsay said. “Like many people we were very taken by the record she has developed, particularly her win in the Southland Guineas.” Pivotal Ten has strung together five consecutive wins for trainer Samantha Wynne. In her most recent victory, she posted an impressive 8.8-length margin in the Listed Southland Guineas on February 12. Wightman is keen to see his star southern filly take on her northern rivals and hopes the partnership will benefit Pivotal Ten’s future on the racetrack and beyond. “In discussion with Brendan, I was convinced that the partnership was good for the filly’s future as both a racehorse and broodmare given the international pedigree she has,” Wightman said. “I am pleased to be associated with owners who are as passionate about racing as I am. All we need now is the luck of the Irish.” Pivotal Ten, who will run in the Selangor Turf Club’s Kiwi slot, joins fellow Lindsay runner First Dance in the showpiece event on Barfoot & Thompson Champions Day. “The inaugural running of the NZB Kiwi is going to be part of a historic day for New Zealand racing and we are incredibly excited to have two runners representing us in the Kiwi,” Lindsay concluded. View the full article

Joe Pride had his game face on and did well enough to hide his disappointment over Ceolwulf (NZ) (Tavistock) missing a run in the Gr.1 Verry Elleegant Stakes at Randwick on Saturday. A genuine weight-for-age contender this autumn and already a two-time Group One winner plus second-placed in the 2024 Australian Derby, Pride was all set for the four-year-old to again take on Via Sistina and Fangirl over the mile trip towards other Sydney Autumn Carnival features. “We couldn’t go around this time,” Pride said. “We had a horse ready to go in a group one and you want to run them but it was one of those fifty-fifty calls on Friday and I just wasn’t happy enough with him on race morning.” That injury was an abrasion to the off-hind cannon which he incurred after Friday morning trackwork. “It wasn’t too bad but it wasn’t worth the risk,” he added Ceolwulf will now start in the Gr.1 Canterbury Stakes (1300m) at Randwick this Saturday before taking on the Gr.1 George Ryder Stakes (1500m) at Rosehill on March 22 where he will meet with Fangirl again. “We are still on track to go to the Queen Elizabeth as our main aim but it might be now that we run in the Doncaster as he needs a bit of racing to get there. “Where he was probably a less than 50% chance to go to the Doncaster, now he is a better chance of going there on the way through.” Though not all was lost after missing yesterday’s Randwick outing, Pride did his best not to show the way he really felt. “Believe me, I am disappointed,” he said. “I’ve just had a few more hours to get over it.” View the full article

Guy, Emily & Bruce put a spotlight on the south, reviewing all the action from Wingatui yesterday, We also dive deep into all the superstars across the Tasman including our very own Savaglee who was brave in defeat. And the team reflect on the life and career of Mike Moroney. Weigh In, March 2 View the full article

An unexpected trip to the South Island produced a winning debut by Queen’s Evidence (NZ) (King’s Legacy) at Wingatui on Saturday, paving the way for another southern mission later in the autumn. Queen’s Evidence was a trial winner at Ellerslie on February 11 and then travelled to Otaki last Saturday for what was meant to be her first start. When that meeting was abandoned after one race, trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson decided to send her further down the country. Saturday’s Grand Casino 2YO (1100m) served as take two for Queen’s Evidence, but the King’s Legacy filly sent another scare through her camp when she reared in the gates and had to be backed out for a vet check. Queen’s Evidence was cleared to start and it was a procession from there. She was sent straight to the lead by jockey Joe Doyle, then kicked clear at the home turn and cruised to victory by a length and a half over the fast-finishing Professional Lad and Shesascorcher. “It was a bit of a nervy start,” Doyle said. “She seemed calm beforehand, but then she just reared up in the gates and got a leg stuck over the side. The vet had a good look at her and was happy with her, and I was happy with her too, and she’s gone out and performed very well. “She was a bit green, changing leads a few times and having a good look around. But when I gave her a squeeze, she picked up very well. I think she’s got more ahead of her.” Walker and Bergerson are now keen for Queen’s Evidence to chase black type in the Listed Welcome Stakes (1000m) at Riccarton on April 12 and the Listed Champagne Stakes (1200m) at the same venue on May 3. “She keeps us on our toes a little bit, but young horses can be a bit like that,” Bergerson said. “She paraded very fresh today. She obviously handled the big trip down here very well – probably too well. “But once she got in the gates, jumped and went clear, she was able to follow the rail around, which always helps young horses. Hopefully she can go on with it from here. “The beauty of her winning today is that we’ve now got a bit of time before those two Listed races at Riccarton later in the autumn. We can get her home now and give her a quiet week, which she really deserves, and take it from there. We’ve got a bit to look forward to.” Queen’s Evidence was bred by Cambridge Stud owners Brendan and Jo Lindsay and is by King’s Legacy out of the twice-winning High Chaparral mare Enjay. That makes Queen’s Evidence a half-sister to three winners including the multiple Group placegetter Familia. Queen’s Evidence is the third winner from the first two-year-old crop of Coolmore Stud stallion King’s Legacy, who himself won the Gr.1 Sires’ Produce Stakes (1600m) and Champagne Stakes (1600m) in Sydney as a two-year-old. Te Akau has already struck black type with the progeny of King’s Legacy, with the promising Born To Be Royal finishing third in last month’s Gr.2 Matamata Breeders’ Stakes (1200m). Cambridge Stud offered Queen’s Evidence during Book 1 of Karaka 2024, where Te Akau principal David Ellis bought her for $220,000. View the full article

What Port Macquarie Races Where Port Macquarie Race Club – 283 Oxley Hwy, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 When Monday, March 3, 2025 First Race 1:45pm AEDT Visit Dabble The new week of racing gets underway at Port Macquarie Race Club on Monday afternoon, with a quickfire seven-part program set for decision. The rail moves out +2m the entire circuit, and with no significant rainfall forecast across the weekend, punters can expect a genuine Good 4 surface. All the action is set to kick-off at 1:45pm local time. Best Bet at Port Macquarie: Speithtacular Speithtacular couldn’t have done much more in a luckless runner-up debut at Ballina on February 14. The Spieth filly missed the start before being ridden along to find the top in the middle stages, using plenty of energy to hold a position as they turned for home. She had every right to fade in the concluding stages, but kept finding as Deep Stealth narrowly got the upper hand on the line. Expect Aaron Bullock to get the three-year-old to jump with them, and provided she can give them the slip, Speithtacular should justify the short price with horse racing bookmakers. Best Bet Race 2 – #9 Speithtacular (3) 3yo Filly | T: Indiana Turner | J: Aaron Bullock (57.5kg) Next Best at Port Macquarie: Éclair Vitality The Matthew Smith-trained Éclair Vitality put it all together at Scone on February 17, bursting clear of his rivals to claim a dominant 2.8-length maiden victory. The son of Lord Kanaloa showed a blistering turn-of-speed when asked for the ultimate effort, with the lightly raced four-year-old eased down on the wire. He appears well placed in this Class 1 contest, and with plenty of upside compared to some key rivals, Éclair Vitality will prove hard to hold out in his quest for back-to-back wins. Next Best Race 3 – #1 Éclair Vitality (6) 3yo Gelding | T: Matthew Smith | J: Ben Looker (60.5kg) Best Value at Port Macquarie: Exceedzu Exceedzu should appreciate stepping out to the 1500m third-up in the campaign after a much-improved effort at this course on February 16. The daughter of Exceedance found the 1200m too sharp but hit the line well to suggest she’s ready to peak. Andrew Gibbons can lob into a handy position throughout from barrier six, and provided Exceedzu can continue to progress for the Todd Howlett barn, she represents terrific each-way value with Dabble. Best Value Race 4 – #6 Exceedzu (6) 3yo Filly | T: Todd Howlett | J: Andrew Gibbons (55,5kg) Monday quaddie tips for Port Macquarie Port Macquarie quadrella selections March 3, 2025 1-6-7-12 1-2 2-5-6-7 1-5-7 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Trainer Michael McCarthy entered the March 1 card at Santa Anita Park with a formidable lineup of stakes runners, and he exited with a hat trick of victories capped by Formidable Man's victory in the $301,000 Frank E. Kilroe Mile Stakes (G1T).View the full article

Stan Tsaikos, pictured after winning last year’s Alice Springs Cup on the Kerry Petrick-trained Venting, landed a double at Pioneer Park on Saturday aboard Will Savage’s Becquerel and Terry Gillett’s Great Buy It got ugly for punters at Alice Springs on Saturday with three odds-on favourites going down. Lisa Whittle’s O’Tycoon – starting at $1.70 with online bookmakers, Dick Leech’s Cavendish ($1.22) and Terry Gillett’s Kangaroo Court ($1.85) brought excellent form to the table. However, Pioneer Park continues to be an unpredictable venue and the feature races are up for grabs during the Alice Springs Cup Carnival starting March 16. Carnival culminates with the $100,000 Pioneer Sprint (1200m) on April 5 and the $110,000 Alice Springs Cup (2000m) on April 6. O’Tycoon, eyeing five wins from his past six starts, once again looked vulnerable when denied the opportunity to sit on the speed before finishing fourth in the open 1200m handicap. Just like on January 5 when he settled midfield in a BM76 over 1000m before coming fourth, Sonja Logan had O’Tycoon camped three deep in sixth place on Saturday after drawing the outside gate in the seven-horse field. Greg Connor’s Flying Yishu, returning after three months, continues to impress first up after holding off all challengers in the home straight despite sharing the lead and sitting three-wide. It was a super ride by apprentice Lek Maloney on the contender, but lumping 53.5kg certainly benefitted Flying Yishu. For Gillett’s $26 pop Supreme Attraction, ridden by daughter and apprentice Dakota, to get within a neck of the winner in second place was remarkable with the 2023 Pioneer Sprint winner a long last in the back straight. Ray Viney’s $6.50 threat Kickatorp – third in last year’s Pioneer Sprint – was a close third with Queensland jockey Brendon Newport on board. Cavendish, a NT Guineas (1600m) hopeful on March 22, had decimated his rivals in his two previous starts over 1400m in February, but came to grief in his 1600m debut. With in-form Victorian apprentice Hannah Le Blanc as the pilot, the three-year-old gelding held big leads throughout the Class 2 contest before succumbing to Will Savage’s fast-finishing Becquerel. Starting at $7.50 and with Stan Tsaikos in the saddle, Becquerel swamped the erratic Cavendish to win by 0.8 lengths. Savage trains NT star Savatoxl, the 2019 NT Guineas winner. Kangaroo Court had won three straight until a last start second behind O’Tycoon over 1100m a fortnight ago and dominated the BM76 over 1400m along with stablemate and $3.90 fancy Great Buy. The Gillett pair led their rivals a merry dance before Great Buy, a last start winner in the same grade over the same distance on February 8, stepped up at the 200m under the guidance of Tsaikos to seal victory by 4.4 lengths. Kangaroo Court, sitting outside Great Buy, had no excuse as he had a 5.5kg advantage over Great Buy courtesy of Dakota Gillett’s 1.5kg claim. Heatwave conditions prompted the Alice Springs Turf Club to bring the meeting forward with the mercury reaching 42.7C – thus equalling the hottest day in March set in 2019. Horse racing news View the full article

Explore a multitude of captivating racing promotions offered by horse racing bookmakers on Sunday, March 2. Immerse yourself in the thrill with generous bonus back offers, elevating your betting experience. Delve into these promotions from top-tier online bookmakers to maximise your betting opportunities. The top Australian racing promotions for March 2, 2025, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions Bendigo & Sha Tin ALL Races | 3+ Leg Same Race Multi Bonus Back up to $50 Place a 3+ leg Same Race Multi bet on any race at Bendigo or Sha Tin this Sunday and if 1 leg of your multi fails, get up to $50 back in Bonus Cash. Neds T&C’s Apply Login to Neds to Claim Promo 25% Winnings Boost! – Bendigo Get 25% Boosted Winnings paid in BONUS CASH. Fixed win only. First eligible bet per race. Must apply Promotion in bet slip. Cash bet only. Max Bonus $250 Picklebet T&Cs apply. Login to Picklebet to Claim Promo Sha Tin (HK) – Sunday Bonus Back 2nd All Races Sha Tin (HK) Bonus back if your horse comes 2nd. Available from 12:00am AEDT Saturday. Auto-applied in Bet Slip. Promotion limits apply. Min 6 runners. Fixed odds only. Eligible customers only. T&C’s apply. Login to UniBet to Claim Promo Punters Toolbox! Supersized Saturday helps you Bet it Out with neds! Get MORE Price Boosts, MORE Bet Backs, MORE Fluc Ups, MORE Back Ups & MORE Extra Nudge tools! Available to use on ANY races of your choice Neds T&C’s Apply. Login to Neds to Claim Promo Owners Bonus – Win a bet on your horse & receive an extra 15% of winnings in cash Account holder must be registered as an official owner of the nominated horse. Fixed odds only. PlayUp T&Cs Apply. Login to PlayUp to Claim Promo Top 4 Betting! Bet & win up to 4th place. Picklebet T&Cs apply. Login to Picklebet to Claim Promo Odds Drift Protector If the price at the jump is bigger than the price that you took, we will pay you out at the bigger odds Eligible customers. T&C’s apply. Login to Bet365 to Claim Promo COPYCASH. GET COPIED. GET PAID – Get paid $0.10 every time someone uses Copy Bet to copy your bets Earn $0.10 per unique Copy Bet. Max $1000 per week. Copy Cash is real money into your account. Dabble T&Cs apply. Login to Dabble to Claim Promo Boost ‘Til You Boom Get your racing boost back if you don’t win. 18+ Gamble Responsibly. Login to BoomBet to Claim Promo How does horsebetting.com.au source its racing bonus offers? HorseBetting.com.au meticulously assesses leading Australian horse racing bookmakers, revealing thoroughbred bonus promotions for March 2, 2025. These ongoing offers underscore the dedication of top horse racing bookmakers. In the realm of horse racing betting, when one bookmaker isn’t featuring a promotion, another is stepping up. Count on HorseBetting.com.au as your go-to source for daily rewarding horse racing bookmaker bonuses. Enhance your value with competitive odds and promotions tailored for existing customers. Easily access these offers by logging in to each online bookmaker’s platform. For valuable insights into races and horses to optimise your bonus bets, trust HorseBetting’s daily free racing tips. More horse racing promotions View the full article

Journalism caught pacesetting Barnes and scored a decisive victory in the San Felipe Stakes (G2) at Santa Anita Park.View the full article