Wandering Eyes

Western Empire winning The Gold Rush at Ascot. Photo: Western Racepix Grant & Alana Williams have claimed another WA feature event, this time with old marvel Western Empire saluting in The Gold Rush (1400m) at Ascot. Victorian jockey Billy Egan was the beneficiary of some misfortune for regular jockey William Pike who was ruled out for six weeks during the week following an incident on an e-scooter. Following a luckless run in the Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m) and having drawn out in barrier 15 for Saturday’s assignment, horse racing bookmakers had the son of Iffraaj a $6.50 quote prior to the jump, despite opening a $3.60 favourite when the final field was declared on Tuesday. With plenty of pace out in front set by Red Can Man, Ripcord and Comfort Me, the race was always going to be set up perfectly for the eventual winner who had a perfect trail from the rear of the field in the three-wide line. With market fancies Super Smink and Magnificent Andy looking for runs approaching the home turn, Egan had Western Empire in clear air and building through the gears. The difference in running proved beneficial, with the former Group 1 winner going on to claim victory in the third edition of The Gold Rush. The Gold Rush 2024 Replay – Western Empire https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Ascot-2024-The-Gold-Rush-14122024-Western-Empire-Grant-Alana-Williams-Billy-Egan.mp4 When Willie Pike had a tumble from an e-scooter on Monday and as a result, broke his wrist, the cat was really put amongst the pigeons as the Williams’ scrambled for a replacement rider before eventually calling on Victorian Billy Egan, who they had never met previously. “Everyone close to me knows I threw the teddy out of the cot on Monday and Tuesday. It is lucky Alana is the solid part between the two of us because she takes the emotion out of it,” Grant Williams said. “The Gold Rush has been our goal all along but he was working that good before the Winterbottom, we thought we were a chance to win it, and obviously we weren’t. “It has been a hectic week. A lot of people over East said this guy is a ripper. He is Paddy Payne’s main rider and he is one of the hardest markers. “He is a champion bloke they said and my first impressions when we met before the first were really good.” Egan, who had never previously ridden in Perth, was pleased he had a few sighters on some stablemates. “It has been a pretty good week. I found out on Monday night in Melbourne that I was going to ride the horse, so I’ve had the week to prepare and I have been looking forward to it all week,” he said. “First time riding here and I’ve had a great experience and even better, I’ve ridden a winner. “I needed to get a feel for the track and a feel for the surroundings.” Horse racing news View the full article

Within The Law ridden by Ben Melham returns to scale after winning the Inglis Banner at Flemington Racecourse on November 09, 2024 in Flemington, Australia. (Photo by Jay Town/Racing Photos) Within The Law continued her meteoric rise with a tenacious victory in the $500,000 Inglis Nursery (1000m) at Royal Randwick on Saturday, capping off a stellar week for trainer Bjorn Baker and Darby Racing. The win follows her Inglis Banner triumph at Flemington last month and adds to Baker’s recent success with O’Ole, who secured the $200,000 Magic Millions Wyong Classic just days earlier. Purchased for a modest $30,000, Within The Law has already amassed $880,000 in earnings from just two starts, cementing her status as one of the most exciting two-year-olds in the country. At $3.50 odds with BlondeBet, she burst between runners under Jason Collett to edge out stablemate Cobra Club ($21) by a neck, with Sequista ($9) finishing strongly for third, a further half-length back. “That was a really tough win today because she is not very big, but she showed a lot of heart,” said Luke Hilton, Bjorn Baker’s racing manager. “She has done nothing but improve since she came home. She is such an honest filly, handles everything, and is so professional.” Collett, riding Within The Law for the first time, was impressed by her determination. “Once I got the split, she really attacked the line,” he said. Inglis Nursery race replay – Within The Law https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Randwick-2024-Restricted-Listed-Inglis-Nursery-14122024-Within-The-Law-Bjorn-Baker-Jason-Collett.mp4 Darby Racing’s Scott Darby celebrated a remarkable quinella, noting that both Within The Law and Cobra Club were among the cheapest horses in the race. “Bjorn has done a great job with the filly. She won her first start in Melbourne, and then he set her for this race,” Darby said. “The plan is for her to go to the $2 million Inglis Millennium in February and then one lead-up run into the Golden Slipper.” Within The Law’s performances have seen her firm into the $26 for the $5 million Golden Slipper at Rosehill Gardens in March with the top horse racing bookmakers. Winning the Inglis Millennium could also make her eligible for a $3 million bonus if she can take out the Group 1 Inglis Sires in April. “She’s not one who stands out at home, but she has taken everything we’ve thrown at her,” Hilton added. “The world is her oyster at the moment.” The Inglis Nursery continues to bolster its reputation as a launchpad for exceptional juveniles, with past winners including Extreme Choice and She Will Reign, both of whom went on to win Group 1 features. Within The Law’s triumph also highlights the ongoing success of Darby Racing, which has enjoyed a remarkable run with horses like Overpass, the $75,000 yearling purchase now boasting over $9.7 million in prizemoney. Darby reflected on the team’s achievements with excitement for the future: “We’ll do it all over again and get them ready for the next big targets.” Amid the celebrations, the Randwick meeting also paused to honor trainer Sam Kavanagh, who passed away early Saturday morning at age 38 after a long battle with cancer. Jockeys wore black armbands in the second race, and fellow trainer Will Freedman dedicated Zoubaby’s opening race win to Kavanagh, saying, “That was for you, Sam.” Horse racing news View the full article

Borris Thornton claiming the LISTED Ascot Green Lough Neagh race with Cifrado at Eagle Farm. Photo: Darren Winningham Cifrado has secured his spot in the Magic Millions Cup after an emphatic victory in the Listed Ascot Green Lough Neagh Stakes (1300m) at Eagle Farm. On a heavy track, the four-year-old gelding, trained by Rex Lipp, stormed home under jockey Boris Thornton to clinch a commanding win by over two lengths, marking another milestone in his blossoming career. Jumping from barrier eight, Cifrado settled at the rear of the field as Prince of Boom set a strong early pace. As the field approached the turn, Thornton made his move, steering the gelding wide to unleash his powerful finish, claiming at $6.50 odds with Neds. Displaying his signature turn of foot, Cifrado swept past his rivals to take the lead and finish in style, leaving the bookmaker favourite Prince of Boom, in second place and Strait Acer in third. Listed Ascot Green Lough Neagh Race Replay – Cifrado https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Eagle-Farm-2024-LISTED-Ascot-Green-Lough-Neagh-14122024-Cifrado-Rex-Lipp-Boris-Thornton-1.mp4 Trainer Rex Lipp, reflecting on the win, highlighted Cifrado’s transformation since being gelded mid-preparation. “He’s done a great job for us, and I’m very pleased for the owner,” Lipp said. “We were lucky enough to buy him for him, and he’s just progressed from there. Since being gelded, he’s much easier to manage, and what he achieved today was exceptional.” Lipp also confirmed that Cifrado’s next target will be the $1 million Magic Millions Cup at 1400m on the Gold Coast but indicated the gelding might not need another run before the event. “He may not have another run yet; I’ll just have to see what happens,” he added. “He’s a good doer, so he holds his form well without racing super regularly.” Jockey Boris Thornton, who reclaimed the ride after guiding Cifrado to his maiden win, praised the gelding’s resilience and strategic racing ability. “He’s done a terrific job,” Thornton said. “This was his third run on a heavy track, and for any horse to maintain that through a prep is a great effort. He carried 59.5kg today and made them look second-rate.” Thornton described how he considered pushing Cifrado forward early but opted to stay patient. “I was half thinking of hitting the button early, but I told myself, ‘Don’t do it, Boris.’ I found a bum behind Michael Rodd, and it took me everywhere I needed to go. I had the horse in the end, and it was fantastic.” Thornton believes there’s more to come from Cifrado. “He’s still on the up, and I don’t think we’ve seen the best of him yet,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to the rest of his preparation and hopefully to Magic Millions.” Cifrado’s victory marks another highlight for Lipp’s boutique stable, which has enjoyed a stellar season. The gelding has now earned over $1.3 million in prize money, with his adaptability and consistency making him a standout performer. Horse racing news View the full article

Yes Lulu ridden by Declan Bates returns to the mounting yard after winning the Magic Millions VIC 3YO & 4YO Classic at Caulfield Heath Racecourse on December 14, 2024 in Caulfield, Australia. (Photo by Scott Barbour/Racing Photos) Yes Lulu has booked her place in next month’s $1 million Magic Millions Fillies and Mares race on the Gold Coast with a thrilling victory in the $175,000 Magic Millions VIC 3YO & 4YO Classic at Caulfield on Saturday. Under Irish jockey Declan Bates, the Ciaron Maher-trained filly stormed home from the back of the field to narrowly edge Miss Altair by a neck in a nail-biting finish paying $11 with PlayUp. Bookmaker favourite Miraval Rose finished third. Magic Millions VIC 3&4YO Classic Race Replay – Yes Lulu https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Caulfield-Heath-2024-Magic-Millions-Vic-34YO-Classic-14122024-Yes-Lulu-Ciaron-Maher-Declan-Bates.mp4 Bates, who rode Lulu for the first time, hinted that his plans to return to Ireland might now change. “I’m meant to be heading back to Ireland for a visit next week, but I might have to make a quick return for a little holiday in the middle of it,” Bates said. “She’s a horse I hadn’t ridden before today, and I was very impressed with her finish. “She’s a beautiful filly, and she’s only going to be better on a bigger track. Winning here says a lot about her.” Stable representative Adrian Joyce confirmed that Lulu will head to the Gold Coast for the January 11 event, confident the 1300m distance will suit her. “She’s always shown she can handle that trip, and she proved it again today,” Joyce said. Although the race was expected to have a quicker pace, Joyce praised Lulu’s ability to adapt and Bates’ composed ride. “The field didn’t go as fast as it looked on paper, and for her to finish like that from where she was is very encouraging. Dec stayed calm, gave her the perfect ride, and she responded beautifully.” Lulu’s latest win is her second consecutive triumph after a promising spring campaign that included strong performances in the Redoute’s Choice Stakes and the Thoroughbred Breeders Stakes. “She’s always shown ability,” Joyce said. “She ran in stakes races as a two-year-old and acquitted herself well. “The owners are over the moon. A lot of them are here today, and it’s a great result for the team.” With her sharp turn of foot and proven versatility, Lulu is now among the key contenders for the Gold Coast feature. Horse racing news View the full article

Marble Arch claims victory at Caulfield. Photo: Bruno Cannatelli It was a case of ex-pat Kiwis combining as Jaylah Kennedy enjoyed another memorable day at the Caulfield Heath on Saturday, as she celebrated a double on the program. Seven days after starring at Ballarat by winning the Ballarat Cup aboard Berkeley Square, Kennedy guided Thailess and former Kiwi galloper Marble Arch to glory at the main Melbourne race meeting for the weekend. Saturday’s success was the second this preparation for Per Incanto mare Marble Arch, who won the inaugural $300,000 Future Stars Series Final at Pakenham last year. The Ben, Will and JD Hayes-trained mare stormed over the top of the hot favourite Warnie to claim victory. “We drew really well, there was going to be good speed on always, then I was just able to get in behind that and I wasn’t a part of that battle,” Kennedy explained. “We had plenty of horse underneath me, we got off the fence at the right time and followed the right horses into the turn, and she was really good with the lightweight.” Kennedy has capitalised on her recent opportunities at metropolitan level. Prior to Saturday, the Kiwi apprentice had ridden two other winners at the Heath track this month and was also in the winners’ circle at Caulfield on Thousand Guineas Day last month. Horse racing news View the full article

Invincible Woman ridden by Damian Lane wins the Magic Millions VIC 2YO Classic at Caulfield Heath Racecourse on December 14, 2024 in Caulfield, Australia. (Photo by Scott Barbour/Racing Photos) Invincible Woman announced herself on the racing stage with a dazzling performance in the $250,000 Magic Millions Victoria 2YO Classic (1100m) at Caulfield on Saturday, earning a berth in next month’s $3 million Magic Millions 2YO Classic (1200m) on the Gold Coast. Trained by Lloyd Kennewell and Lucy Yeomans, the filly displayed raw speed and exceptional talent under jockey Damian Lane, leading the field from the start and surging to a near three-length victory paying $3.70 with Picklebet. The daughter of champion sire I Am Invincible, Invincible Woman was purchased for $250,000 from Widden Stud’s Magic Millions Yearling Sale draft. She is the third winner from stakes-placed mare Showcase, a half-sister to Group III winner Disposition. Her triumph marks a significant milestone for Kennewell and Yeomans, who selected her as their first joint yearling purchase after forming their training partnership 18 months ago. “She’s very natural and very quick,” Lane said. “She’s just doing it on raw ability right now, and this experience will only make her better.” Despite an awkward start, Invincible Woman’s pace carried her to the lead, where she dictated the tempo before accelerating off the bend to defeat Zouclaire. BlondeBet favourite Bacash rounded out the placings in third. Magic Millions 2YO VIC Classic Race Replay – Invincible Woman https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Caulfield-Heath-2024-Magic-Millions-Vic-2YO-Classic-14122024-Invincible-Woman-Lloyd-Kennewell-Lucy-Yeomans-Damian-Lane.mp4 Owned by an all-female syndicate, the filly’s success adds an inspiring narrative to her journey. Yeomans expressed excitement about the group’s opportunity to vie for the $500,000 Women’s Bonus at the Magic Millions 2YO Classic. “It’s a prestigious race, and while the bonus is appealing, we’ll let the filly tell us if she’s ready. She’s not just a two-year-old; we think she has a bright future.” Kennewell noted the filly’s progression leading into her debut, highlighting the team’s initial consideration of giving her a spell before her strong trial performances prompted them to press on. “She kept taking it to another level,” he said. “This win is no surprise to me, but it’s a testament to her talent.” Invincible Woman has now firmed into $11 with the top Australian horse racing bookmakers for the Magic Millions 2YO Classic, solidifying her status as a key contender for one of Australia’s premier juvenile races. Horse racing news View the full article

Beau Dazzler winning the Group 3 Grand Prix Stakes. Photo: Darren Winningham The Tony & Maddysen Sears-trained Beau Dazzler ($8.00) has come with a withering burst to claim the Group 3 Grand Prix Stakes (1800m) at Eagle Farm on Saturday afternoon, revelling in the testing Heavy 10 conditions to claim a dominant 2.9-length victory in the $300,000 feature. The son of Ardrossan had previously been unplaced in three performances on Heavy tracks, including his latest effort at Doomben on November 30 when finishing fourth behind race rival and $3.90 favourite with BlondeBet, Moon Sweeper. He was able to turn the tables this time around courtesy of a terrific ride by Jag Guthmann-Chester, sitting midfield with cover the entire journey while Apuntar ($5.00) led them out at a strong tempo under Taylor Marshall. The Matthew Dunn-trained Moonsweeper appears to get every chance from the trail behind the leader but didn’t seem to handle the bottomless conditions, stepping up to the 1800m for the first time. The pair of Sun Worshipper ($19.00) and Madame Lexis ($41.00) were making strong inroads late, but it was all in vain, however, as Beau Dazzler was off and gone with the prize once asked to extend in the concluding stages. 2024 Group 3 Grand Prix Stakes Replay – Beau Dazzler https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Eagle-Farm-2024-Group-3-Grand-Prix-Stakes-14122024-Beau-Dazzler-Tony-Maddysen-Sears-Jag-Guthmann-Chester.mp4 Co-trainer Maddysen Sears was on course to represent the stable and couldn’t have been more delighted with the performance. “He has always shown us a lot but he is a very tricky horse,” Maddy Sears said. “He is not an easy horse to do things with and I do have to make mention of James who rides him every day as he is very naughty, but we thought he was a very good chance today. “We bought him as a Derby-style of horse, and we didn’t think the distance would be any problem whatsoever and when the rain came in it was almost like a 2000m race with how heavy it was. “His ability prevailed, and it was a great ride by Jag. He drew barrier one, but he kept him off the fence and he just speared through and put them away.” Sears said Guthmann-Chester was an underrated rider. “He is very strong and he vary rarely does things wrong on horses and he got the job done today,” she said. With a Group 1 Queensland Derby (2400m) campaign the focus through the winter, Beau Dazzler is likely to have one more run this campaign. “I believe there is a 2000m race in two weeks’ time that he will run in and then we will put him away and I think he will be a force to be reckoned with in the Queensland Derby,” Sears said. Horse racing news View the full article

What Sha Tin Races Where Sha Tin Racecourse – Tai Po Rd, Sha Tin District, Hong Kong When Sunday, December 15, 2024 First Race 1pm HKT (4pm AEDT) Visit Dabble Hong Kong racing returns to Sha Tin Racecourse on Sunday afternoon, with an ultra-competitive 10-part program set for decision. The rail moves out to the C+3 position after racing in the true position last weekend for the Hong Kong International Races, and with no signs of rain despite the cool conditions, punters can anticipate a genuine Good 4 surface for race-day. The opening event is scheduled to get underway at 1pm local time. Best Bet at Sha Tin: Beauty Alliance Beauty Alliance finished off well returning at Sha Tin on November 17, doing his best work late to get within 3.3 lengths of Super Love Dragon over 1400m. He was forced back to the rear from barrier 13 on that occasion and gets the opportunity to sit much closer in transit from stall one this time around. The 1600m should suit and the booking of Zac Purton shows strong intent from the John Size barn. He should lob onto the leaders back, and with even luck getting off the inside running rail, Beauty Alliance should prove hard to hold out at a good price Neds. Best Bet Race 5 – #11 Beauty Alliance (1) 4yo Gelding | T: John Size | J: Zac Purton (56.5kg) Bet with Neds Next Best at Sha Tin: The Heir The Heir drops back into Class 4 company for the first time, and although he’s winless across his 13 Hong Kong starts, this appears to be the perfect opportunity to strike. He’s been a model of consistency without winning against some quality opposition, closing to within 3.3 lengths of Charming Legend, and prior to that wasn’t beaten far by Steps Ahead. He drops down to 57.5kg after the 3kg claim of apprentice Ellis Wong, and with gate two aiding him on his journey, The Heir shouldn’t have any excuses to be figuring in the finishing at an each-way price with horse racing bookmakers. Next Best Race 6 – #2 The Heir (2) 5yo Gelding | T: Caspar Fownes | J: Ellis Wong (a3kg) (60.5kg) Bet with BlondeBet Best Value at Sha Tin: Light Years Charm Formerly racing under the name Bretsal in Australia, Light Years Charm makes his Hong Kong debut after being transferred to the David Eustance barn. The Rubick gelding was a dominant 3.5-length maiden winner at Lismore on June 18 before making the trek, and his latest barrier trial victory on the Sha Tin all-weather suggests he’s acclimatized well to his new conditions. Kicking off the campaign over 1400m shows good intent, and with barrier three allowing Andrea Atzeni to lob into the ideal stalking position, Light Years Charm should get every chance to make an impression first-up. Best Value Race 8 – #9 Light Years Charm (3) 4yo Gelding | T: David Eustace | J: Andrea Atzeni (54kg) Bet with Picklebet Sunday quaddie tips for Sha Tin Sha Tin quadrella selections December 15, 2024 4-5 4-6-9-13-14 1-4-5-6-7-8-12 1-2-3-4-11 Horse racing tips View the full article

Robusto winning the Group 2 Ingham. Photo: Bradleyphotos.com.au Bjorn Baker & Tim Clark have combined with Robusto ($31.00) claiming the Group 2 Ingham (1600m) at Randwick on Saturday afternoon, storming clear at a massive price with horse racing bookmakers. The son of Churchill put the writing on the wall last time out, finishing runner-up in the Group 3 Festival Stakes (1500m) behind Private Eye ($6.00), closing off best of the rest in what turned out to be an on-speed dominated affair. The Churchill gelding got conditions to suit this time around, with Clark lobbing onto the back of a hot tempo from barrier four, courtesy of the Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott-trained I’mintowin ($7.00) powering across to maintain the early lead despite bombing the start. The heavily-back favourite with Neds, Gringotts ($4.00), seemingly got the perfect trail under Tommy Berry, allowing I’mintowin to give him the ideal cart into the race. Once asked for the ultimate effort, Gringotts appeared to be travelling best, but it was the Bjorn Baker-trained five-year-old gaining the upper hand, fending off the late challenges of Steparty ($15.00) and Encap ($26.00) in the concluding stages. 2024 Group 2 The Ingham Replay – Robusto https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Randwick-2024-Group-2-The-Ingham-14122024-Robusto-Bjorn-Baker-Tim-Clark.mp4 Stable representative Luke Hilton was on was on course at Randwick and spoke post-race on behalf of the Bjorn Baker barn. “He’s done an amazing job this time in,” said Hilton. “He hasn’t had any luck, and he finally drew a gate today and it paid dividends with a great ride by Tim (Clark). “He was an outstanding run (in the Festival Stakes), he was three-wide no cover from a poor gate and really stuck on well. There were question marks with him at the mile, but when he came up with gate four, we were confident he’s going well and just has to run out a strong mile. “It’s a super result for the team.” Tim Clark spoke race and suggested the better barrier did wonders for his winning chances on Saturday. “He just hadn’t been able to draw a barrier until today,” said Clark. “He jumped great, I looked to put him a bit closer than expected, but he was happy being there and I didn’t want to take that away from him. “Obviously following the right horses, it was just a matter of being patient on him and I didn’t want to expose him too soon, but I’mintowin and Gringotts weren’t taking me far enough and I saw the gap come and he dashed through really well. “Great to win this race.” Not only does Robusto claim the major portion of the $2 million prize but is also now ballot exempt for the 2025 Group 1 Doncaster Mile (1600m). Horse racing news View the full article

What Nowra Races Where Shoalhaven City Turf Club – 96 Albatross Rd, South Nowra NSW 2541 When Sunday, December 15, 2024 First Race 1:10pm AEDT Visit Dabble Shoalhaven City Turf Club is the destination for country racing in NSW on Sunday afternoon, with a massive eight-race program lined up for Nowra Showcase Cup (1600m) Day. The rail is in the true position the entire circuit, and with minimal rainfall expected to hit the course proper, punters can expect the Soft 5 rating at the time of acceptances to hold true for race-day. All the action is scheduled to get underway at 1:10pm local time. Nowra Showcase Cup Tip: Associate Associate caught the eye returning at Kembla Grange on November 23 and looks well-placed in the $65,000 Nowra Showcase Cup. The son of Star Witness was doing his best work late over the 1400m behind Everido, making strong inroads from the rear of the field in an on-speed dominated affair. The five-year-old drops 7kg for the step up in grade, and although he may be forced to circle the field from barrier 11, watch for Associate to be powering over the top at the each-way price with Neds. Nowra Showcase Cup Race 7 – #9 Associate (11) 5yo Gelding | T: Danielle Seib | J: Jean Van Overmeire (54kg) +800 with Neds Best Bet at Nowra: Holy Hell The Danielle Seib-trained Holy Hell debuts on the back of a couple smart barrier trials and finds a very winnable first-up assignment. The 6.6-length margin in her most recent piece of work at Rosehill on November 14 is deceiving on face value, with the daughter of Hellbent doing it comfortably under her own steam towards the rear of the field to indicate she had plenty left to give in the concluding stages. Jean Van Overmeire does the steering from barrier nine, and with an ounce of luck falling her way, Holy Hell should prove hard to hold out. Best Bet Race 2 – #12 Holy Hell (9) 3yo Filly | T: Danielle Seib | J: Jean Van Overmeire (55.5kg) +280 with BlondeBet Next Best at Nowra: Puntin Puntin looks like a gelding with plenty of upside as he debuts for the Bjorn Baker barn. The son of Super Seth cruised to victory in a recent barrier trial at Canterbury on December 3, making every post a winner to hold out the fast-finishing Wandaye. Punters can expect identical tactics to be adopted by Rachel King drawn in barrier one, and provided the pair can tick over a soft sectional in the middle stages, Puntin will give a bold sight when asked for the ultimate effort turning for home. Next Best Race 5 – #9 Puntin (1) 3yo Gelding | T: Bjorn Baker | J: Rachel King (57.5kg) +180 with Picklebet Sunday quaddie tips for Nowra Nowra quadrella selections December 15, 2024 6-8-9-10 1-3-6 2-9 7-14 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Kadavar maintained his perfect record over 2400m with a strong win in the Listed Christmas Cup (2400m) at Randwick. Photo: bradleyphotos.com.au Progressive stayer Kadavar maintained his perfect record over 2400m when recording a strong win in the Listed Christmas Cup (2400m) at Randwick on Saturday. The Chris Waller-trained four-year-old is in a rich vein of form, notching a hattrick of victories including bouncing between assignments in Sydney and Melbourne and has now won all four of his 2400m starts. Ridden by Kerrin McEvoy, Kadavar took up a more forward position after initially settling midfield and tracked eventual runner-up Alalcance, who shot to the lead before being gradually worn down by the winner. The son of Group 1 VRC Derby (2500m) winner Tarzino and Group 1 VRC Oaks (2500m) winner Arapaho Miss is now doing exactly what his pedigree suggests. “He has turned into a winner, that’s for sure,” Waller said. “He has been up and down the country-side but he is enjoying his racing and he keeps going to another level each time he runs. “I think he is four from four over 2400m and he is out of an Oaks winner and he is a sibling to an Oaks winner. “I think he will get to a higher-level. That will do for this prep but if you have got a good stayer, there are some good races for them.” Winning jockey Kerrin McEvoy was not surprised to see Kadavar again perform well, especially off the limit weight of 53kgs. “I knew he would run the trip well and he got out into a nice spot and the horse in front of me wasn’t really travelling and taking me along and was almost getting detached from the horses I thought were going to be hardest to beat,” he said. “I was able to come out, make a bit of a move and be a bit closer around the back lane and he showed a good attitude when I asked him.” Kadavar has had 13 starts for six wins and two placings, earning $351,525 for owners Neville Morgan and David Devine. Horse racing news View the full article

Saltcoats scores his first victory on Australian soil. Photo: bradleyphotos.com.au Four-year-old gelding Saltcoats has posted his first victory on Australian soil when coming with a sustained run at Randwick on Saturday. The Chris Waller-trained son of Ardrossan came from near the rear of the field under Tommy Berry and made a long sustained run to defeat fellow Kiwi-breds So Dazzling and Tavi Time by the best part of a length. Winner of the Listed Auckland Futurity Stakes (1400m) in May of his juvenile year for original trainer Samantha Logan, the talented galloper was sold across the Tasman and sports the colours of prominent owner Ozzie Kheir. He races for a syndicate with breeder and original sole owner of the horse Lib Petagna retaining a share. “He has always shown us promise but we didn’t know what to expect today from the draw (13),” Waller said. “I said to just go back and ride him quietly and hope that he can blend into the race, which he certainly did and he sustained a long run. “He had a small incident before the start of this preparation which has held him back and it looks like he is in good shape now.” Sent out a $12 chance with horse racing bookmakers, Saltcoats had been a well-beaten tenth first-up on a Good 3 track at Kembla Grange. “It was definitely too firm at Kembla Grange last start, which was disappointing because he was going so well,” winning rider Tommy Berry said. “I said to my manager that we just need to draw a gate and I think he can win next start. He has just been doing everything right at home and working very well. “I had in the back of my mind to go forward and Chris said nup – not today, we’ll go back and get a little bit of luck. “Probably the winning was down the side. There was a three-wide line and I was able to improve into the race still with cover and he is only second-up at 1800m, so he has got a bit of improvement and Chris is taking his time with him, which is dearly needed. “He is quite a keen going horse and you don’t know what is there until you let him off the bit but he deserved that today.” Now the winner of two of his 10 starts with a further five placings, Saltcoats was third in the Gr.2 Tulloch Stakes (2000m) won by Wymark back in March. Horse racing news View the full article

Blue Sky At Night winning Saturday’s Group 3 Waikato Cup (2400m) at Te Rapa. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) It may have only been a nose at the finish, but it might as well have been a mile for trainer Shelley Hale after Blue Sky At Night took out Saturday’s Group 3 Waikato Cup (2400m) at Te Rapa. Hale, who has battled ill-health in recent years, is one of the most popular figures at the Cambridge training establishment and has rejuvenated the career of the seven-year-old Shamexpress mare who has struck a rich vein of form, winning three of her seven starts since May, before tackling her biggest challenge on Saturday. Ridden by Tayla Mitchell, who has formed a strong bond with the quirky mare, Blue Sky At Night was content to lob along in midfield before being eased into contention approaching the home bend. Mitchell started to get busy as the widest runner in a line of five across the track at the 300m, shooting the mare two lengths clear and looking set for a comfortable victory. No one told Warren Kennedy aboard second favourite Sassy Lass, who finally found clear air and charged after Blue Sky At Night, coming up just a nose short of victory in a thrilling photo finish. 2024 Group 3 Waikato Cup Replay – Blue Sky At Night https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Te-Rapa-2024-Group-3-Waikato-Cup-14122024-Blue-Sky-At-Night-Shelley-Hale-Taylor-Mitchell-.mp4 Hale and owner-breeders Alistair and Isabel Barker were ecstatic when the judge announced the official placings after having to hold their breath for several minutes as they waited for word to come through. “It’s wonderful as we’ve always thought she might be capable of this,” Hale said. “It’s a great thrill when you come to a race like this on your home track and just lovely. “The Barkers are just wonderful and patient as there are not many seven-year-old mares still going around. “She is a really relaxed horse who can get a little cranky at times, but these days she’s very relaxed. “Tayla was great as comes and rides work for us and the horses just run for her.” Horse racing news View the full article

Australian jockey rates Britannia Stakes-winning import highly ahead of second Hong Kong start.View the full article

Kelly Coe winning Saturday’s Group 3 J Swap Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Former Manawatu mare Kelly Coe continued a golden run for her connections with an upset victory in Saturday’s Group 3 J Swap Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa. Kelly Coe is trained by Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott, who racked up a career-best 66 winners last season and are setting a red-hot pace so far in 2024-25. Their 31 wins put them in second on the national premiership, and they have tasted black-type success with Grail Seeker in the Group 1 Tarzino Trophy (1400m), Checkmate in the Listed Armacup 3YO Stakes (1500m), Sethito in the Group 3 Bonecrusher Stakes (1400m) and now Kelly Coe. The Proisir mare races in the red and white colours of her owner-breeders Humphrey and Fiona O’Leary, who saw those same silks carried to Group One glory by Ladies Man in last Saturday’s TAB Mufhasa Classic (1600m) at Trentham. “They’re pretty famous colours, and it’s great to have them racing out of Wexford Stables with this mare,” O’Sullivan said. “They just keep winning.” Kelly Coe has spent most of her career in the Awapuni stable of Ashley Meadows, for whom she won five of her 35 starts including last year’s Listed Wanganui Cup (2040m). She also placed in the Group 2 Awapuni Gold Cup (2000m) and Group 3 Manawatu Breeders’ Stakes (2000m), and she ran sixth in the Group 1 Zabeel Classic (2000m). All of those previous career highlights came over significantly longer distances than the 1400m of Saturday’s J Swap Sprint, but Kelly Coe had resumed with an eye-catching finish from second-last among a 16-horse field in the Group 3 Spring Sprint (1400m) in October. That was the seven-year-old’s first start for O’Sullivan and Scott, who later set their sights on Saturday’s $120,000 feature over the same course and distance. Kelly Coe drew the inside gate in the J Swap Sprint and was given a dream run in fourth spot by in-form jockey Masa Hashizume. She loomed on the outside of the front-running Mercurial after rounding the home turn, and that pair went to war through the final 250m. Group One winner Mercurial fought for all he was worth under his 59kg topweight, but Kelly Coe kept coming and gradually got the upper hand. She pipped him by a head at the finish line, with Witz End another length and a quarter away in third. The 1400m were run in a quick 1:21.90. 2024 Group 3 J Swap Sprint Replay – Kelly Coe https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Te-Rapa-2024-Group-3-J-Swap-Sprint-14122024-Kelly-Coe-Lance-OSullivan-Andrew-Scott-Masa-Hashizume.mp4 “We just had a beautiful run from gate one,” Hashizume said. “I knew Opie’s horse (Mercurial) was going to kick on the corner. I got up next to him quite easily in the straight, but he was hard to pass. We finally got there on the line, so I’m very happy. She’ll definitely take a lot of improvement from this as well.” Kelly Coe has now had 37 starts for seven wins, nine placings and $293,000 in stakes. O’Sullivan admitted that Saturday’s performance took the Wexford team by surprise. “The owners sent her up to us to train this season, so it’s really nice to win a race like this with her,” he said. “We probably didn’t expect her to settle in such a handy position and then finish it off like that. We actually thought she might be a better chance in a race like the Rich Hill Mile (Group 2, 1600m) in a couple of weeks than she was today, but it’s a great result. Who knows, we could still carry on into something like the Rich Hill now. But we’re very happy to get this result today.” Kelly Coe holds nominations for the Group 1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) at Trentham on January 11 and the Group 1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) back at Te Rapa on February 8. Horse racing news View the full article

Talented local gelding Willis overcame a tough wide run and a determined rival to score a narrow victory in Saturday’s Howley Joinery Handicap (1400m) at Ascot Park. Willis was one of the South Island’s notable improvers last season, winning in Rating 65 and Rating 75 grade before finishing third in the $200,000 Southern Mile Final (1600m) at Wingatui and second in the inaugural $350,000 Southern Alps Challenge (1600m) at Riccarton. The Vadamos gelding went into Saturday’s race on the back of a third placing in the Winton Cup over the same course and distance on November 24, where he was fractious in the gates, very slow to jump and dropped out to be a distant last. He made up an impressive amount of ground in the straight to end up only two and three-quarter lengths from the winner. That performance saw Willis step out as one of the favourites on Saturday at $3.40, and he produced another top-drawer performance. Drawn gate seven in a field of eight, Willis and jockey Tina Comignaghi found themselves caught out wide in the early stages of the $50,000 feature. Comignaghi had no choice but to push forward, surging around the outside of the field to move up alongside the front-running The Radiant One. That pair kicked away from the rest of the field at the home turn and then had the finish all to themselves. They fought out a head-bobbing duel through the final 200m, with The Radiant One refusing to surrender, but Willis slowly but surely gained a narrow advantage and prevailed by a head. The Radiant One finished two and a half lengths ahead of the third-placed Inflamed. Willis was a $1600 purchase from Gavelhouse.com in May of 2020. He has now had 19 starts for four wins, six placings and $170,780 in stakes. The six-year-old is trained by Barry Howden, who shares ownership with a number of family members. “I’m pretty pleased with that,” Howden said. “He brought himself undone last time, so it’s good to see him turn it around today. He didn’t have an easy time of it either, being caught wide and having to push forward. I think he’s better when he gets up over a mile too, so it’s very pleasing. “He placed in a couple of those big races last autumn and has a fair bit of ability. I’m not sure where we’ll go with him this time in, so I’ll talk to Tina and see what she thinks. But one possible target might be the Timaru Cup (1600m).” The $80,000 Timaru Cup will be run at Phar Lap Raceway on December 28. Willis headlined a strong start to the locals on Saturday’s Invercargill card. The previous race was won by Stygian for Ascot Park owner-trainer Kalai Selvan. “It’s been a pretty good day for us locals,” Howden said. “I’m very pleased for Kalai that he got that win. His father died a few days ago, so that will mean a bit to him.” Fellow Ascot Park trainer Robert Dennis won the first two races of the day with Medina and On Song. View the full article

Former Manawatu mare Kelly Coe continued a golden run for her connections with a $28 upset victory in Saturday’s Gr.3 J Swap Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa. Kelly Coe is trained by Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott, who racked up a career-best 66 winners last season and are setting a red-hot pace so far in 2024-25. Their 31 wins put them in second on the national premiership, and they have tasted black-type success with Grail Seeker in the Gr.1 Tarzino Trophy (1400m), Checkmate in the Listed Armacup 3YO Stakes (1500m), Sethito in the Gr.3 Bonecrusher Stakes (1400m) and now Kelly Coe. The Proisir mare races in the red and white colours of her owner-breeders Humphrey and Fiona O’Leary, who saw those same silks carried to Group One glory by Ladies Man in last Saturday’s TAB Mufhasa Classic (1600m) at Trentham. “They’re pretty famous colours, and it’s great to have them racing out of Wexford Stables with this mare,” O’Sullivan said. “They just keep winning.” Kelly Coe has spent most of her career in the Awapuni stable of Ashley Meadows, for whom she won five of her 35 starts including last year’s Listed Wanganui Cup (2040m). She also placed in the Gr.2 Awapuni Gold Cup (2000m) and Gr.3 Manawatu Breeders’ Stakes (2000m), and she ran sixth in the Gr.1 Zabeel Classic (2000m). All of those previous career highlights came over significantly longer distances than the 1400m of Saturday’s J Swap Sprint, but Kelly Coe had resumed with an eye-catching finish from second-last among a 16-horse field in the Gr.3 Spring Sprint (1400m) in October. That was the seven-year-old’s first start for O’Sullivan and Scott, who later set their sights on Saturday’s $120,000 feature over the same course and distance. Kelly Coe drew the inside gate in the J Swap Sprint and was given a dream run in fourth spot by in-form jockey Masa Hashizume. She loomed on the outside of the front-running Mercurial after rounding the home turn, and that pair went to war through the final 250m. Group One winner Mercurial fought for all he was worth under his 59kg topweight, but Kelly Coe kept coming and gradually got the upper hand. She pipped him by a head at the finish line, with Witz End another length and a quarter away in third. The 1400m were run in a quick 1:21.90. “We just had a beautiful run from gate one,” Hashizume said. “I knew Opie’s horse (Mercurial) was going to kick on the corner. I got up next to him quite easily in the straight, but he was hard to pass. We finally got there on the line, so I’m very happy. She’ll definitely take a lot of improvement from this as well.” Kelly Coe has now had 37 starts for seven wins, nine placings and $293,000 in stakes. O’Sullivan admitted that Saturday’s performance took the Wexford team by surprise. “The owners sent her up to us to train this season, so it’s really nice to win a race like this with her,” he said. “We probably didn’t expect her to settle in such a handy position and then finish it off like that. We actually thought she might be a better chance in a race like the Rich Hill Mile (Gr.2, 1600m) in a couple of weeks than she was today, but it’s a great result. Who knows, we could still carry on into something like the Rich Hill now. But we’re very happy to get this result today.” Kelly Coe holds nominations for the Gr.1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) at Trentham on January 11 and the Gr.1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) back at Te Rapa on February 8. One of 15 individual stakes winners for Rich Hill Stud stallion Proisir, Kelly Coe is out of the Fasliyev mare Floiridita, who herself won two races and placed in the Listed Canterbury Belle Stakes (1200m). The O’Learys paid just $3,500 to buy Floridita from the 2017 New Zealand Bloodstock National Broodmare Sale at Karaka. View the full article

Raging hot favourite Snazzytavi more than justified the torrent of support she received in the final minutes of betting prior to Saturday’s Gr.2 Cal Isuzu Stakes (1600m), the feature event for the fillies and mares at Te Rapa. The Graham Richardson and Rogan Norvall-prepared five-year-old was making her first appearance since taking out the Gr.1 Livamol Classic (2040m) at the venue in October with a barn-storming late run and she repeated the pattern of that victory on Saturday. Punters who backed her into the $1.30 Fixed Odds favourite may have been feeling a little anxious when regular pilot Warren Kennedy had her back equal last on a muddling speed set up by Reputation and No Secret for most of the contest. Still second last approaching the home bend as things began to get serious near the lead, Kennedy made sure he had the daughter of Tavistock well balanced before asking her to extend in the run home. With a few huge strides Snazzytavi ranged up to fellow Group One winner Campionessa before breezing past her at the 150m mark as she headed to the winning post two lengths to the good of Campionessa with Hi Yo Sass Bomb shading Bella Waters for third. Richardson had been looking to see his charge relaxed during the running as he sets her for another Group One target on Boxing Day at Ellerslie and got exactly what he wanted with the performance. “I was nervous but she keeps winning and she is such a good horse, those are the ones that make you the most nervous,” Richardson said. “They walked (in front) and she still settled which is just so important. I’m over the moon for her and all her connections. “The goal for the season is the Zabeel Classic (Gr.1, 2000m) which I would love to win for her owners. “She is just athletic, has an amazing stride on her and is tough. You wouldn’t want to be married to her.” Kennedy stressed the importance of keeping the mare in a good rhythm during her races which allows her to deliver her best. “She is something special and has really stepped up,” he said. “I was a little concerned about the pace as there didn’t look to be a lot of speed, but I didn’t want to change anything with her as we have been teaching her to get back (and relax). “Full credit to Graham and Rogan as they have taken their time with her. “She has been learning her craft and now it is paying dividends. She was absolutely cruising when she got sling-shotted into the race and I gave her one flick when we got up to Campionessa and it was all over. “She has lived up to the Group One win she had and it’s all systems go from here.” Bred by Gordon Cunningham under his Suncroft Bloodstock banner, Snazzytavi has now earned $682,900 from her 14-start, eight-win career, for owners Brendan and Jo Lindsay, who stood the ill-fated Tavistock at Cambridge Stud before his untimely passing in 2019. View the full article

Local trainer David Greene made the best possible start to SkyCity Waikato Cup Day on his home track at Te Rapa when his debutant Sweet Ice took out the ICIB Brokerweb-Insurance Brokers 2YO (1100m). Greene, who produced his 100th career winner back in May with Goldiluxe, had the well-named son of Frosted ready to go at his first time on race day after two placed efforts at the Te Awamutu trials and he delivered in fine but wayward style for rider Sam Spratt. Spratt bounced Sweet Ice out nicely from a midfield barrier and took up a position at the head of affairs throughout. It was apparent the gelding was travelling nicely rounding the home bend as he shot two lengths clear from the chasing pack headed by Curzon Park and Towering Vision. Despite being dominant in the closing stages Sweet Ice drifted out sharply at the 100m before balancing up again to win by a neat length from Curzon Park who shaded Towering Vision for the runner-up slot. Shortly after pulling up the protest siren sounded however, despite the outward movement, Sweet Ice held the race much to the delight of his large group of owners. Greene was sporting a smile a mile wide when questioned about the performance. “It’s pretty nice as it has been a couple of years since we won on Cup day here,” Greene said. “It’s good to win on my favourite day of the year. “We’ve never really asked too much of him although has always appealed as a well above (average) athlete. “He still has a few things to learn as you could see, but he is a talent. “It was a field of two-year-olds going past big screens and the like, while it can get a bit lonely out there in front on your own, so he might have been looking for his friends (when running around).” Whilst the horse had been paid up for the rich Karaka Million series, Greene hadn’t been considering a start in the TAB Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m) at Ellerslie next month but admitted he may have to reassess his plans now. “I didn’t think he was really a Karaka Million type of horse this year,” he said. “However, the owners won’t let me get away with not having a crack at that race now.” Spratt was also suitably impressed as she noted there was plenty of petrol left in the tank despite the wayward finish by the horse. “He has got huge ability and has always shown a lot but he is as green as,” she said. “He got me his first trial but improved a little bit for his second one and still has lengths left in him. “I thought I was going to do a U-turn halfway up the straight but he managed to stick on. “He did that with his ears pricked despite running around everywhere, so when he puts it together and knuckles down he will be pretty good.” Purchased by Greene for $55,000 out of the Pencarrow Stud draft during the Book 1 Sale at Karaka back in January, Sweet Ice is the son of stakes placed Darci Brahma mare, Deliciano. His granddam is Group Two winner Santagostino, a half-sister to Gr.1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m) winner Vapour Trail. View the full article

Te Akau Racing resisted the temptation of a big spring campaign with promising filly Damask Rose, and their patience could be rewarded in a pair of seven-figure races at Ellerslie later in the season. The lightly raced daughter of Savabeel made her first raceday appearance since September in Saturday’s Wentwood Grange 3YO (1200m), where she lived up to her $1.80 favouritism with an effortless win. It was the second victory of a four-start career for Damask Rose, who won on debut at New Plymouth in late December of last year before finishing second to Velocious in the Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m) at Ellerslie. In her only other start, she ran an eye-catching third behind quality fillies Alabama Lass and Captured By Love in the Gr.3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m) at Hastings on September 7. The $550,000 Gr.1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton was an appealing spring target for a filly who had performed so strongly in her three-year-old debut, but trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson decided to play a longer game. They still won the 1000 Guineas with Captured By Love, and now the summer might be Damask Rose’s time to shine. “We resisted the temptation of going to Riccarton with this filly,” Walker said on Saturday. “We’re working our way backwards from the Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) and the NZB Kiwi (1500m). “We just thought we’d give Riccarton a miss, and that would give her the best chance of getting to those two big races in Auckland. They can’t go to every dance. I think we’ve done the right thing. “She had a few weeks out at the farm after the Gold Trail, where she put on some good condition and has come back looking super. “She’s a really nice filly. She could potentially end up being pretty good, I think. Her next start will be in the Auckland Guineas (Gr.2, 1400m) at Ellerslie on Boxing Day.” Ridden by Opie Bosson with a testing 59kg topweight, Damask Rose took up a comfortable position in fourth as her stablemate Maracatu set an even tempo. Bosson began to urge Damask Rose along just before the home turn, and she clicked into gear in the straight and soon strode to the front. Damask Rose cruised away from a tiring Maracatu and opened up a big lead, ultimately winning by a length and three-quarters over the strong-finishing Sought After. “She gave me a great feel,” Bosson said. “I had her off the nickel for a fair bit of the race, but she’s quite a laid-back type of horse. “She feels like she’s back, big time. The further she goes, the better she’ll be. I think she has a chance to go on and win races like the Karaka Millions and the new slot race.” The TAB reacted to Saturday’s win by cutting Damask Rose from $8 into $4 for the Karaka Millions 3YO at Ellerslie on January 25. She now also holds a prominent position at $10 in the market for the NZB Kiwi on March 8, for which Te Akau Racing owns a slot. This three-year-old race on Waikato Cup Day at Te Rapa is a proven springboard to better things for Te Akau Racing. Quintessa placed in the race last year and went on to win the Gr.1 Levin Classic (1600m), while the stable has previously won this event with subsequent Group Two winners Wild Night and Brando. Damask Rose was bred by Tony Rider, who offered her under his Milan Park banner in Book 1 of Karaka 2023. David Ellis secured the well-related filly for $200,000. “I’d like to congratulate everyone for the patience they’ve shown with this filly,” Ellis said. “We deliberately turned her out for good spell after racing earlier in the season, because our goal was to have her ready for top races after New Year’s Day, and after seeing her win like that, we feel that we’re on target. “It was her first start for some time, so to win like that was really impressive. Congratulations to Mark and Sam and all the staff that look after her for the way they’ve prepared her.” Runner-up Sought After, who is locked in as Waikato Stud’s representative for the NZB Kiwi, lost no admirers with his performance on Saturday. He settled in a clear last after a slow start, but made up plenty of ground in the final 200m. View the full article

Snazzytavi winning Saturday’s Group 2 Cal Isuzu Stakes (1600m) at Te Rapa. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Raging hot favourite Snazzytavi more than justified the torrent of support she received in the final minutes of betting prior to Saturday’s Group 2 Cal Isuzu Stakes (1600m), the feature event for the fillies and mares at Te Rapa. The Graham Richardson and Rogan Norvall-prepared five-year-old was making her first appearance since taking out the Group 1 Livamol Classic (2040m) at the venue in October with a barn-storming late run and she repeated the pattern of that victory on Saturday. Punters who backed her into the $1.30 Fixed Odds favourite may have been feeling a little anxious when regular pilot Warren Kennedy had her back equal last on a muddling speed set up by Reputation and No Secret for most of the contest. Still second last approaching the home bend as things began to get serious near the lead, Kennedy made sure he had the daughter of Tavistock well balanced before asking her to extend in the run home. With a few huge strides Snazzytavi ranged up to fellow Group One winner Campionessa before breezing past her at the 150m mark as she headed to the winning post two lengths to the good of Campionessa with Hi Yo Sass Bomb shading Bella Waters for third. 2024 Group 2 Cal Isuzu Stakes Replay – Snazzytavi https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Te-Rapa-2024-Group-2-Cal-Isuzu-Stakes-14122024-Snazzytavi-Graham-Richardson-Rogan-Norvall-Warren-Kennedy.mp4 Richardson had been looking to see his charge relaxed during the running as he sets her for another Group One target on Boxing Day at Ellerslie and got exactly what he wanted with the performance. “I was nervous but she keeps winning and she is such a good horse, those are the ones that make you the most nervous,” Richardson said. “They walked (in front) and she still settled which is just so important. I’m over the moon for her and all her connections. “The goal for the season is the Zabeel Classic (Group 1, 2000m) which I would love to win for her owners. “She is just athletic, has an amazing stride on her, and is tough. You wouldn’t want to be married to her.” Kennedy stressed the importance of keeping the mare in a good rhythm during her races, which allows her to deliver her best. “She is something special and has really stepped up,” he said. “I was a little concerned about the pace as there didn’t look to be a lot of speed, but I didn’t want to change anything with her as we have been teaching her to get back (and relax). “Full credit to Graham and Rogan as they have taken their time with her. “She has been learning her craft and now it is paying dividends. She was absolutely cruising when she got sling-shotted into the race and I gave her one flick when we got up to Campionessa and it was all over. “She has lived up to the Group One win she had and it’s all systems go from here.” Horse racing news View the full article

Champion jockey says promising sprinter ‘looked like a different horse’ after crucial gear change sparks big win.View the full article

Damask Rose winning at Te Rapa on Saturday. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Te Akau Racing resisted the temptation of a big spring campaign with promising filly Damask Rose, and their patience could be rewarded in a pair of seven-figure races at Ellerslie later in the season. The lightly raced daughter of Savabeel made her first raceday appearance since September at Te Rapa, where she lived up to her $1.80 favouritism with Neds with an effortless win. It was the second victory of a four-start career for Damask Rose, who won on debut at New Plymouth in late December of last year before finishing second to Velocious in the Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m) at Ellerslie. In her only other start, she ran an eye-catching third behind quality fillies Alabama Lass and Captured By Love in the Group 3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m) at Hastings on September 7. The $550,000 Group 1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton was an appealing spring target for a filly who had performed so strongly in her three-year-old debut, but trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson decided to play a longer game. They still won the 1000 Guineas with Captured By Love, and now the summer might be Damask Rose’s time to shine. “We resisted the temptation of going to Riccarton with this filly,” Walker said on Saturday. “We’re working our way backwards from the Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) and the NZB Kiwi (1500m). “We just thought we’d give Riccarton a miss, and that would give her the best chance of getting to those two big races in Auckland. They can’t go to every dance. I think we’ve done the right thing. “She had a few weeks out at the farm after the Gold Trail, where she put on some good condition and has come back looking super. “She’s a really nice filly. She could potentially end up being pretty good, I think. Her next start will be in the Auckland Guineas (Group 2, 1400m) at Ellerslie on Boxing Day.” Ridden by Opie Bosson with a testing 59kg topweight, Damask Rose took up a comfortable position in fourth as her stablemate Maracatu set an even tempo. Bosson began to urge Damask Rose along just before the home turn, and she clicked into gear in the straight and soon strode to the front. Damask Rose cruised away from a tiring Maracatu and opened up a big lead, ultimately winning by a length and three-quarters over the strong-finishing Sought After. “She gave me a great feel,” Bosson said. “I had her off the nickel for a fair bit of the race, but she’s quite a laid-back type of horse. “She feels like she’s back, big time. The further she goes, the better she’ll be. I think she has a chance to go on and win races like the Karaka Millions and the new slot race.” Horse racing bookmakers reacted to Saturday’s win by cutting Damask Rose from $8 into $4 for the Karaka Millions 3YO at Ellerslie on January 25. She now also holds a prominent position at $10 in the market for the NZB Kiwi on March 8, for which Te Akau Racing owns a slot. Horse racing news View the full article

British trainer acquires Group One sprinter as he continues to make an impact early in his Hong Kong career.View the full article

Sweet Ice winning at Te Rapa on Saturday. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Local trainer David Greene made the best possible start to Waikato Cup Day on his home track at Te Rapa when his debutant Sweet Ice took out the opener. Greene, who produced his 100th career winner back in May with Goldiluxe, had the well-named son of Frosted ready to go at his first time on race day after two placed efforts at the Te Awamutu trials and he delivered in fine but wayward style for rider Sam Spratt. Spratt bounced Sweet Ice out nicely from a midfield barrier and took up a position at the head of affairs throughout. It was apparent the gelding was travelling nicely rounding the home bend as he shot two lengths clear from the chasing pack headed by Curzon Park and Towering Vision. Despite being dominant in the closing stages Sweet Ice drifted out sharply at the 100m before balancing up again to win by a neat length from Curzon Park who shaded Towering Vision for the runner-up slot. Shortly after pulling up the protest siren sounded however, despite the outward movement, Sweet Ice held the race much to the delight of his large group of owners. Greene was sporting a smile a mile wide when questioned about the performance. “It’s pretty nice as it has been a couple of years since we won on Cup day here,” Greene said. “It’s good to win on my favourite day of the year. “We’ve never really asked too much of him although has always appealed as a well above (average) athlete. “He still has a few things to learn as you could see, but he is a talent. “It was a field of two-year-olds going past big screens and the like, while it can get a bit lonely out there in front on your own, so he might have been looking for his friends (when running around).” Whilst the horse had been paid up for the rich Karaka Million series, Greene hadn’t been considering a start in the Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m) at Ellerslie next month but admitted he may have to reassess his plans now. “I didn’t think he was really a Karaka Million type of horse this year,” he said. “However, the owners won’t let me get away with not having a crack at that race now.” Spratt was also suitably impressed as she noted there was plenty of petrol left in the tank despite the wayward finish by the horse. “He has got huge ability and has always shown a lot but he is as green as,” she said. “He got me his first trial but improved a little bit for his second one and still has lengths left in him. “I thought I was going to do a U-turn halfway up the straight but he managed to stick on. “He did that with his ears pricked despite running around everywhere, so when he puts it together and knuckles down he will be pretty good.” Sweet Ice is now a $18 chance for the Karaka Millions 2YO with horse racing bookmakers. Horse racing news View the full article