Wandering Eyes

Fresh off his Arma Veloce (Jpn) (Harbinger {GB})'s tally in the G1 Hanshin Juvenile Fillies last Sunday, owner Teruo Ono has a chance to bag a Japanese juvenile Group 1 double with the undefeated Arte Veloce (Jpn) (Maurice {Jpn}) in the G1 Asahi Hai Futurity Stakes at Kyoto on Nov. 15. A winner at Sapporo in July and again in Tokyo's G3 Saudi Arabia Royal Cup besting Taisei Current (Jpn) (Maurice {Jpn}) on Oct. 5, the colt carries the mantle of ante-post favourite. Japanese legend Yutaka Take will be perched in the irons. with the duo leaving from stall eight. Take said, “He's moving well and seems stronger than before. The distance of a mile really seems to suit him.” Another horse who has yet to taste defeat, Total Clarity (Jpn) already boasts a score over course and distance when unveiled in June. Kept at the same trip when switched to Niigata, the son of Bago (Fr) won the G3 Niigata Nisai Stakes on Aug. 25. Fifth in the markets before Sunday is Panja Tower (Jpn) (Tower Of London {Jpn}). The undefeated G2 Keio Hai Nisai Stakes hero will be trying the mile distance for the first time, after putting his stamp on a newcomers' affair at Chukyo in September. The Keio Hai Nisai Stakes was accomplished over good ground on Nov. 2, with the re-opposing G3 Kokura Nisai Stakes victor A Shin Wand (Jpn) (Discreet Cat) back in eighth. Trainer Shinsuke Hashiguchi said, “He's been as expected in his recent work. He's chased down his training partners well, and there's no change with the way he's moving. The jockey thinks a mile will suit him, and that he could have done even better in his last race if the ground had been better.” Another entry with two wins is Museum Mile (Jpn) (Leontes {Jpn}). The son of the listed-placed Museum Hill (Jpn) (Heart's Cry {Jpn}) was third on debut, before taking Kyoto contests over 1800 metres in October and stepped up to 2000 metres on Nov. 10. “He looked a little heavy in his first piece of work since returning, but that was the same last time, and as he picks up in training, he doesn't seem heavy after being back for a while now,” said trainer Daisuke Takayanagi. Nitamonodoshi (Jpn) (Dee Majesty {Jpn}) won over six furlongs on debut at Fukushima in June, and set a new record of 1:28.60 at Sapporo in the 1500-metre Clover Sho when last seen on Aug. 18. Arlecchino (Jpn) (Bricks And Mortar), a winning half-brother to dual Group 1 winner Cervinia (Jpn) (Harbinger {GB}), will leave from gate six in the 16-horse field. He ran fifth to Arte Veloce on rain-soaked ground in October. The second and third from the G2 Daiy Hai Nisai Stakes are also signed on in Dragon Boost (Jpn) (Screen Hero {Jpn}) and Daishin Ra (Jpn) (Satono Diamond {Jpn}). The post Group 1 Double A Possibility For Teruo Ono In Asahi Hai Futurity appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

GSW West Saratoga (Exaggerator) was sold privately to Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi's RRR Racing for $375,000 following the Inglis Digital USA December Sale, according to a Friday press release issued by the auction company. The gray will be sent to the Dubai barn of trainer Chief Stipe Watson, where he will undergo an evaluation to determine his future racing plans. “I'm very excited with the purchase of West Saratoga,” Watson said. “He looks like a horse with a really nice future in the upcoming years in the UAE. He has had a very promising start to his career in America and looks like a nice prospect for the mile races at Meydan both at the end of this season and future seasons.” RRR Racing has been a prominent owner in Dubai this decade, with notable runners including G1 Golden Shaheen Stakes hero Switzerland (Speightstown). Domestically, Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi's runners have been led by Clapton (Brethern), winner of the GII Lukas Classic Stakes last year. West Saratoga previously raced for owner Harry Veruchi and trainer Larry Demeritte. The colt broke his maiden as a juvenile in front-running fashion at Ellis Park in August, and he followed up with a score in the GIII Iroquois Stakes at Churchill Downs in his next start. The 3-year-old posted in-the-money efforts in the Pasco Stakes, the GIII Sam F. Davis Stakes, and the GIII Jeff Ruby Steaks, leading into a start in this year's Kentucky Derby, where he finished 12th. “This sale highlights the global reach and versatility of the Inglis Digital USA platform,” said Liza Hendriks, CEO of Inglis Digital USA. “We're proud to see West Saratoga find such an exciting new chapter through our December Sale.” Entries are now open for the Inglis Digital USA February Sale, and they will be taken through Monday, Feb. 3. The catalog will be released Friday, Feb. 7, and the horses will sell Wednesday, Feb. 12. Click here to enter your horse for the February Sale, or to register as a bidder. The post West Saratoga Sold To RRR Racing After Inglis Digital USA December Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

On a morning which only the Scottish word dreich could properly describe, it would be easy to opt for the indoor life, a nine-to-five salaried job in a centrally-heated office. But where's the fun in that, eh? Instead, as the days tick by until the winter solstice, racehorse trainers around the isles are out in the slate grey mizzle which a lethargic sunrise can't hope to shake off. The veterans among them could be forgiven for dragging their wellington boots a little at this time of year, but that is not something which Jack Morland is even contemplating. The amiable 29-year-old is the newest recruit to the training ranks in Newmarket and is brimming with optimism as he embarks on the career path of which he has dreamed for half his life. “I have wanted to train racehorses since I was about 15. It's my passion,” he says simply as we follow two members of his string out to Warren Hill. “Every year that I've been in racing, and especially since I've been back working in England, I've thought to myself how everyone says it's doom and gloom, but you only need to look at the record year at Tattersalls Book 1 and there are still plenty of people who want to have horses trained in the UK.” The week before the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale kicked off with its jaw-dropping skirmishes throughout Books 1 and 2, Morland officially launched his training business. On the first day of October he had two horses in the 17 boxes he rents from Charlie McBride at Exeter House Stables in the heart of Newmarket. Now he has 13. “I've been very lucky and I have been supported by some very nice clients, such as Derek [Lovatt] and Colin [Bacon], as well as Charlie Rosier and Brownsbarn Thoroughbreds and plenty more,” he says. “We have some older horses to run over the winter who will hopefully get a few wins on the board and get my name noticed. I like to think of this first year of training as a period to try to prove myself, and if I can do that, hopefully we will get a few more in.” He will be going well to get close to the level of support enjoyed by his former bosses in Australia, Ciaron Maher and David Eustace. The latter is a former Newmarket boy himself who is now training independently in Hong Kong. “I ran a barn for Ciaron and David in their training base at Caulfield, which no longer exists,” he says. “It was a very good place to learn about how to train horses on a big scale – there were about 700 on the books when I left there.” Prior to that, Morland, after deciding his previous job in London was not for him, worked his way up at Manton in Brian Meehan's stable as pupil assistant prior to his departure for Australia. He has been back in the UK for five years, during which time he has been employed as assistant trainer to Ed Dunlop. “Ed let me get involved in all aspects of the business which was a big help to me when I set up training on my own,” he says. “Ciaron was fantastic at training two-year-olds, and stayers as well, but we never trained up hills as we do in Newmarket, and every horse trialled two or three times before they ran. There it was a lot more steady work and short breezes, whereas here it's more about progressive canters and building up their fitness through conditioning work. Ed is a very classical trainer and is very patient. He always gave the horse time to progress and often his horses' best years are their four- or five-year-old season.” Having grown up in Oxfordshire, Morland has now made Britain's largest training centre his home. “It's competitive but fun at the same time,” he says of life in Newmarket. “I love the camaraderie here. James Ferguson has been phenomenally good to me. Ollie Sangster used to work in town and I've taken a lot of advice from him, the same with George Scott. [Next-door neighbour] Ben Brookhouse lent me his Champagne City as a lead horse and everyone has been so helpful. The facilities are second to none and it's fun talking to all my comrades on Warren Hill in the morning. I especially love it around springtime when everyone is talking about their two-year-olds.” Angel Of Antrim (Ire) (Dark Angel {Ire}) became the trainer's first runner when finishing fourth at Newcastle on November 8 and he has subsequently run two more horses, with Serenity Rose (Ire) (James Garfield {Ire}) recently finishing second at Lingfield. “Now we're just waiting for that first winner,” says Morland. “I'm really excited to start running a few more horses now and seeing where it goes. Being a young trainer, people are attracted to you, so hopefully it will go well and we can grow the business from there.” He does, however, have his feet firmly on the ground. “I know that you can be today's hero and tomorrow's zero,” says Morland, who was found helping with the mucking out on TDN's arrival in his yard. “People have been very good to me in offering their advice and help. I don't want to grow too quickly as I think that is when things can get missed.” In addition to the backing of the aforementioned Brownsbarn Thoroughbreds, run by the Allen brothers Thomas, Charlie and George, Morland has also attracted Nick Bradley Racing to his yard in these initial months, and with his father Giles, a longtime racing fan and owner, has devised the syndicate Maxwell Thoroughbreds. “I think that really is the way forward,” he says. “And if we can get that right, like the Australians have, then that could be a big seller for our industry. I really want to open it up to as many people as I can.” The post ‘It’s My Passion’: Jack Morland Joins Training Ranks appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Dr. Alan Ruggles–a partner at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital who specializes in orthopedic surgery and lameness–made a presentation on condylar fractures, a common injury in racehorses, during the final installment of the 2024 OwnerView webinar series which was held Dec. 10, the resource said in a press release on Friday morning. With a PowerPoint presentation, Dr. Ruggles covered how the injury occurs and its treatment through surgery. He also discussed bone bruising and the advantages of different diagnostic tools. The presentation was followed by a video showing the specialist performing surgery on a condylar fracture. After which he explained that horses usually recover within an hour and need at least 12 to 16 weeks off from training. The conference is hosted by The Jockey Club and the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association and presented by Bessemer Trust, Stoll Keenon Ogden and The Green Group. The panel was sponsored by Daily Racing Form. A Q&A was sponsored by West Point Thoroughbreds, and attendees were able to ask questions through a link, which were posted at the conclusion of the event. Click here to access this video and others in the series. The post OwnerView Webinar Covers Condylar Fractures With Dr. Alan Ruggles appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk A clearly overcome Zev Meredith was all but lost for his words after winning his first Group 1 as a trainer at Alexandra Park tonight. He’d just watched his six-year-old mare One More Moment win the TAB $100,000 Queen of Diamonds, the first ever Group 1 for trotting mares. Driven by visiting Australian Greg Sugars, of Just Believe and Better Eclipse fame, One More Moment was three back the fence before overhauling the favourite Con Grazia Love in the shadows of the post. She paid $41 on the fixed odds. Post race Meredith looked shocked by the upset win. “One More Moment has just created a moment I’ll never forget,” he told Trackside post race. It was One More Moment’s fourth win in 17 starts, and clearly the biggest moment in the 22-year-old’s career. After finishing a close up second with Con Grazia Love Maurice McKendry made amends with Miki Shand in the $60,000 Group 2 Franklin Cup. McKendry took the trail behind The Big Lewboski and then shot up the passing lane, paying $46. The Big Lebowski was second, with Jolimont third. Further south it was Mo’unga who dominated the night’s feature pace at Addington, the Group 3 East West Fencing Summer Cup. Driver Robbie Close hunted him out at the start and once he got the lead he never looked like being beaten. Arch rival Republican Party was nursed back to last before circling the field to sit parked. But he had no answer to Mo’unga as he won his 10th race in 23 starts. In the last of the night’s Group 1s Duchess Megxit produced all the qualities of a champion to win the $100,000 Queen of Hearts at Alexandra Park. Princess Meritaten produced the early fireworks to take the lead and at the 800 Duchess Megxit was eight lengths off her, only to storm around the field three wide. Zachary Butcher then ran down Princess Meritaten with a storming finish. Duchess Megxit paid just $2.10 for the win. It was her 11th win in just 17 starts and follows her win in the Group 1 New Zealand Pacing Oaks at Addington a fortnight ago. View the full article

Waikato-Bay of Plenty Harness Racing Incorporated’s two slot races, The Race and TAB Trot have been confirmed for 2025. The races will headline the renowned Night Of Champions meeting at Cambridge Raceway on Friday April 4. “We’re excited to confirm both races will be run again,” Cambridge Raceway CEO Dave Branch said. “It will be the fourth edition of The Race and the second running of the TAB Trot. “This meeting has become a highlight of the Australasian Harness Racing calendar and New Zealand racing calendar. We’re immensely proud of what we have achieved so far in this space and we’re looking forward to developing the event further in 2025.” With the initial three year slot holder contracts for The Race now completed there is an opportunity for new slot holders to come on board for both races. “Each race has 10 slots available,” Branch said. “It’s a one year commitment for both races and existing slot holders will have first right of renewal for the following year.” The original slot holders for both races have first right of renewal for next year’s races too, with expressions of interest now been taken. Thanks to the support of Harness Racing New Zealand, Branch said slot fees have reduced this year to $60,000 for The Race (previously $75,000) and $40,000 for the TAB Trot (previously $50,000). “Slot races are a very important part of racing today,” Harness Racing New Zealand CEO Brad Steele said. “They attract excitement from new punters and audiences. There is a very strong element of something new, something very special and something dramatic. “Waikato-Bay of Plenty Harness is to be congratulated on developing these two premier races over the last three years: our richest trotting race and a $1 million pace now matched by the NZ Cup. “Harness Racing NZ has increased its support for these races. “The races will attract the best from Australia and New Zealand. Last year we saw Merlin win the $1 million The Race and Just Believe the Australian champion and recent Dominion Trot winner win the TAB Trot. “Who knows, we live in hope that we may see the magnificent Keayang Zahara back as a four-year-old! Her three wins at Addington in the last month put her in world class.” The Race will carry a $1 million purse for the third consecutive year, while the TAB Trot rises to $650,000 (previously $600,000), providing all 10 slots are sold. There has also been changes to distribution of the prize money for both races. The winner of The Race will take home $420,000, $230,000 for second, $100,000 for third, $85,000 for fourth and $65,000 for fifth with also rans receiving $40,000. The TAB trot follows the same structure $273,000 (first), $84,500 (second), $65,000 (third), $55,250 (fourth), $42,250 (fifth) and $26,000 to the rest of the field. To express interest in a slot, interested parties should contact Branch directly or visit www.nightofchampions.nz/slots. Applications close January 22, with the 2025 slot holders to be announced on January 23. View the full article

With six Group races, a host of country racing and a range of bonuses and other incentives, the Southern Region is gearing up for a bumper summer. In December and January there will be nine meetings at southern venues, including at holiday hotspots like Omakau, Roxburgh and Cromwell. There will also be what is being billed the “Southern Summer Triple”. The Invercargill HRC, Central Otago TC and Northern Southland TC will host six Group races, starting with Invercargill Cup day at Ascot Park on December 20. The total stakes for all races at all three race meetings is in excess of $300,000. The Group 1 Ascot Park Hotel Invercargill Cup is shaping up as the strongest yet and will be worth $100,000, with the feature trot on the day being the Group 3 $50,000 Brendan Franks Farrier David Moss Stakes. The Club will give every trainer who has a horse in the Cup a $300 Ascot Park Hotel voucher. HRNZ has committed a $10,000 Bonus to the owners if a mare wins the Cup. Also a $10,000 (HRNZ) Bonus will be given if a 4YO who raced in the $200k The Christian Cullen on December 6 runs in the first three placings in the Cup. This is limited to the first one past the post in the first three placings. Leg two will be the ever popular Central Otago Trotting Club meeting at Omakau on Thursday, January 2. It will feature two Group 3s for the trotters and placers, both worth $40,000 and sponsored by the Gallagher Family and Ranfurly Transport respectively. It’s the first time the feature trot has been accorded Group status. The 60th anniversary meeting for the Central Otago TC will celebrate the Gallagher family’s contribution to the club going back to the inaugural meeting in 1965. Paul, a much loved local character, and successful trainer/driver, died earlier this year, aged 87. Action will then return to Ascot Park for the third and final leg, with the Northern Southland Trotting Club hosting the Macca Lodge Northern Southland Pacing Cup and the Prydes Easifeed Southern Lights Trot. Both will be at Group 3 level and worth $40,000. The full list of southern meetings over the holiday period is : December 20 Invercargill HRC @ Ascot Park December 27 Gore HRC @ Gore January 2 Central Otago TC @ Omakau January 4 Roxburgh TC @ Roxburgh January 6 Wyndham HRC @ Cromwell (grass) January 16 Northern Southland TC @ Ascot Park January 22 Forbury Park TC @ Oamaru January 26 Riverton TC @ Riverton (grass) January 30 Invercargill HRC @ Ascot Park To encourage especially Canterbury trainers to head south with their horses a number of incentives have now been finalised. FREE SITES AT OMAKAU Horses and owners/trainers with self-contained caravans can stay free at Omakau during the circuit provided their horse/s race at Omakau. This includes paddocks and all tracks on site. Paddocks, camping and track usage are also available at Roxburgh and Cromwell. $1000 IN BONUSES FOR ‘NORTH OF THE WAITAKI’ TRAINERS A total of $300 will be paid to the trainer based ‘north of the Waitaki River’ who starts the most horses at Omakau 2/1/25. With $200 to the trainer who travels the furthest and five $100 prizes drawn randomly to any of five other trainers who start at the meeting. One $100 prize from this group will be drawn specifically to a trainer who gives a junior driver a drive on the day. The $1000 package has been generously sponsored by Joan and Paul Davies and RD Petroleum. Omakau, Roxburgh and Cromwell will all have a Junior Driver penalty free race programmed. Southern Harness is happy to assist with any stabling requirements or any other queries related to the race days. For more information contact jason@southernharnes.co.nz – 021 127 2912 julie@southernharness.co.nz – 0274 390 660 For more information specifically regarding Omakau contact Graham Sinnamon – 027 681 7594. View the full article

Goffs is set to offer something different to the National Hunt sphere by adding two-year-old store horses to the historic Arkle Sale in 2025. Traditionally, the sale has been dominated by three-year-old unbroken stores-including the odd smattering of four-year-olds-but Goffs chief executive Henry Beeby says that the addition of two-year-olds is a reaction to market demands. Beeby said, “We pride ourselves on being flexible and progressive in meeting market demands whilst taking a measured approach and the introduction of two-year-old stores to the Arkle Sale comes in response to long running discussions on the subject that has included our vendors, buyers, the Goffs National Hunt team and the wider National Hunt community. “From pinhookers seeking a shorter turnaround to buyers looking to get horses going a year earlier, we recognise the changing market trends so believe this move to be in line with the broader industry's aspirations and initiatives such as Horse Racing Ireland's introduction of three-year-old National Hunt Academy Hurdle races next year.” He added, “Goffs is extremely ambitious for Arkle 2025 and remains committed to building on the factors that have made it the first choice for elite stores. Our inspection team, led by Gerry Hogan, Neil Walsh, Peter Molony, Kevin Ross and Harry Fowler, will start the New Year in search of the best three-year-olds available, whilst also hand picking a small but quality selection of two-year-olds to ensure that every buyer finds the horse they are looking for at Goffs. “It should be remembered that this is not an entirely new concept as two-year-old stores have previously featured at our Doncaster Spring Store Sale including when a son of Dalakhani topped the sale in 2014.” The post Goffs Set Revamp Historic Arkle Sale With The Addition Of Two-Year-Olds appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

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Kim Reid pictured with Hi Yo Sass Bomb. Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North) Taranaki mare Hi Yo Sass Bomb already has a Group 1 placing next to her name, and owner-trainer Kim Reid is hoping to improve on that in the coming months. The daughter of Complacent was runner-up to Snazzytavi in the Group 1 Livamol Classic (2040m) at Te Rapa in October, and she will return to the Hamilton venue on Saturday to try and turn the tables on her nemesis in the Group 2 Cal Isuzu Stakes (1400m). In-between runs, Hi Yo Sass Bomb finished a creditable fourth in the Group 2 Auckland Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1400m) at Pukekohe last month, and has had an easy time of it since following a health scare. “Off the back of that (Pukekohe run) she had a bit of gunk come out of her nose and had a swab taken,” Reid said. “They (vets) put it down to allergies, so I have just eased off a little bit for a week there, but she seems to have bounced back okay.” The six-year-old mare readied for her weekend assignment with a jumpout earlier this week, and Reid said she is on song for the Cal Isuzu, which she finished fifth in last year to Saturday race rival Campionessa. “We had a jumpout on Tuesday and she came home really nicely. She is very well,” Reid said. Hi Yo Sass Bomb will jump from the ace barrier this weekend, which isn’t ideal for the mare, but Reid is confident jockey Joe Doyle can work his magic. “It is not ideal,” Reid said. “We would prefer to have drawn three or four, but it is what it is, Joe will have to bring some tricks because I am sure Opie (Bosson, jockey) will try and box us in from there (aboard Campionessa), but I am sure Joe will have it sorted.” Following Saturday, Group 1 assignments await Hi Yo Sass Bomb, which could come as soon as Boxing Day at Ellerslie. “We will see how she goes tomorrow and also the following week,” Reid said. “I have got thoughts of possibly the Zabeel (Group 1, 2000m) on Boxing Day and/or the Thorndon Mile (Group 1, 1600m), and the Herbie Dyke (Group 1, 2000m) later on.” Following Saturday, Reid will make the long trek down to Trentham on Sunday to line-up stablemate and close relation Hi Yo Legacy in the Grant Plumbing 1600. The five-year-old son of Per Incanto won on debut over a mile at New Plymouth, and while confident of a bold showing this weekend, Reid said he still has a lot of developing to do. “He is such a big, rangy horse, and he is a bit goofy,” she said. “I know he is five, but he has still got a lot of strengthening up to do. I think he has come on a little bit stronger (from his win) but he has still got a long way to go.” Hi Yo Legacy is out of a half-sister to the dam of Hi Yo Sass Bomb, and while closely related to the Group 1 performer, Reid said they are nothing alike. “They are completely opposite, you wouldn’t pick them being related at all,” she said. “She is smart and sassy and very intelligent, and he is a big, lanky, goofy horse.” Reid is looking forward to testing Hi Yo Legacy on Trentham’s big, roomy track on Sunday, believing it will suit his big frame. “I thought Trentham might suit him with the big, long straight,” she said. “It will be interesting to see how he goes there.” Horse racing news View the full article

Taranaki mare Hi Yo Sass Bomb already has a Group One placing next to her name, and owner-trainer Kim Reid is hoping to improve on that in the coming months. The daughter of Complacent was runner-up to Snazzytavi in the Gr.1 Livamol Classic (2040m) at Te Rapa in October, and she will return to the Hamilton venue on Saturday to try and turn the tables on her nemesis in the Gr.2 Cal Isuzu Stakes (1400m). In-between runs, Hi Yo Sass Bomb finished a creditable fourth in the Gr.2 Auckland Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1400m) at Pukekohe last month, and has had an easy time of it since following a health scare. “Off the back of that (Pukekohe run) she had a bit of gunk come out of her nose and had a swab taken,” Reid said. “They (vets) put it down to allergies, so I have just eased off a little bit for a week there, but she seems to have bounced back okay.” The six-year-old mare readied for her weekend assignment with a jumpout earlier this week, and Reid said she is on song for the Cal Isuzu, which she finished fifth in last year to Saturday race rival Campionessa. “We had a jumpout on Tuesday and she came home really nicely. She is very well,” Reid said. Hi Yo Sass Bomb will jump from the ace barrier this weekend, which isn’t ideal for the mare, but Reid is confident jockey Joe Doyle can work his magic. “It is not ideal,” Reid said. “We would prefer to have drawn three or four, but it is what it is, Joe will have to bring some tricks because I am sure Opie (Bosson, jockey) will try and box us in from there (aboard Campionessa), but I am sure Joe will have it sorted.” Following Saturday, Group One assignments await Hi Yo Sass Bomb, which could come as soon as Boxing Day at Ellerslie. “We will see how she goes tomorrow and also the following week,” Reid said. “I have got thoughts of possibly the Zabeel (Gr.1, 2000m) on Boxing Day and/or the Thorndon Mile (Gr.1, 1600m), and the Herbie Dyke (Gr.1, 2000m) later on.” Following Saturday, Reid will make the long trek down to Trentham on Sunday to line-up stablemate and close relation Hi Yo Legacy in the Grant Plumbing 1600. The five-year-old son of Per Incanto won on debut over a mile at New Plymouth, and while confident of a bold showing this weekend, Reid said he still has a lot of developing to do. “He is such a big, rangy horse, and he is a bit goofy,” she said. “I know he is five, but he has still got a lot of strengthening up to do. I think he has come on a little bit stronger (from his win) but he has still got a long way to go.” Hi Yo Legacy is out of a half-sister to the dam of Hi Yo Sass Bomb, and while closely related to the Group One performer, Reid said they are nothing alike. “They are completely opposite, you wouldn’t pick them being related at all,” she said. “She is smart and sassy and very intelligent, and he is a big, lanky, goofy horse.” Reid is looking forward to testing Hi Yo Legacy on Trentham’s big, roomy track on Sunday, believing it will suit his big frame. “I thought Trentham might suit him with the big, long straight,” she said. “It will be interesting to see how he goes there.” View the full article

The rise of Gr.2 The Ingham (1600m) favourite Gringotts (NZ) (Per Incanto) hasn’t come as a surprise to jockey Tommy Berry, but he admits the manner in which the gelding has been achieving it has been a welcome revelation. Gringotts has captured the Listed Big Dance (1600m) and Gr.3 The Gong (1600m) at his past two starts, both times carting big weights and overcoming outside barriers. Berry has been impressed by the nature of both performances, and evidently, so has Gringotts. “I think he has surprised everyone because he is winning with plenty of authority and he has gained a lot of confidence out of his wins, especially out of the Big Dance,” Berry said. “The way he came through the Big Dance into The Gong, it was like he’d gone home, knew he was the man and puffed out his chest. “He went into The Gong just a different horse. Hopefully that’s the case again on Saturday.” Gringotts will again have to shoulder a hefty weight in The Ingham (1600m) at Randwick, his 60.5kg impost just a half-kilo less than topweight and Group One winner Private Eye (Al Maher). However, he has a much kinder draw in barrier seven and Berry hopes that will offer some flexibility after being all but forced to ride him for speed at his past two starts. “It hasn’t been the way we have wanted to ride him at his last couple but it has been the way we’ve had to,” he said. “I’m not saying that’s not going to be the way he is ridden on Saturday. I don’t want to take that speed away from him, but it would be nice to have something do the work for him and let him have the last crack at a few of the others.” View the full article

The countdown to the inaugural $3.5 million NZB Kiwi (1500m) will move up a notch at Te Rapa on Saturday when Waikato Stud’s runner Sought After lines up in the Wentwood Grange 3YO (1200m). Sought After scored a highly impressive two-length win on debut at Taupo in September, and a month later he was selected to represent his owner-breeders Waikato Stud’s slot in the NZB Kiwi on Champions Day at Ellerslie on March 8. The Tivaci gelding earned himself a place in New Zealand racing history as the first confirmed runner in the eagerly anticipated new slot race. In two appearances since his stylish debut, Sought After was blocked in the straight when fifth at Te Rapa on October 12, then was tripped up by a Heavy8 track when sixth in the Gr.2 Sarten Memorial (1400m) at Te Aroha on October 30. Sought After will return from a freshen-up in Saturday’s $65,000 race, which will be his first raceday appearance in 45 days. “He won very well on debut and hasn’t really had things go his way in his couple of starts since then,” O’Sullivan said. “He had a bit of a freshen up in the paddock after the Sarten. He looks very well and we’ve been happy with how he’s been working leading into his return to racing on Saturday. He’s certainly going to be an interesting runner at Te Rapa. “With Waikato Stud having selected him for their slot in the NZB Kiwi, his season has very much become a matter of trying to get him to that day in the best shape we possibly can. We still need to make a plan for some of the other races he’ll run in between now and then, but we’ll get Saturday out of the way first and then figure out the next steps from there.” The TAB rates Sought After a $14 chance for the NZB Kiwi, with the second confirmed runner, Canterbury Jockey Club’s representative Domain Ace, sitting on a quote of $18. Notably, Wexford Stables have their own slot for the NZB Kiwi, and their smart recent Ellerslie winners Checkmate and Sethito currently share $8 favouritism alongside Aeliana and Savaglee. O’Sullivan and Scott also have Prosegur and Hankee Alpha in prominent positions in the market at $10 and $14 respectively. “It’s exciting to think that we’re going to have multiple runners in the race,” O’Sullivan said. “A few of our three-year-olds have put their hands up with good performances in recent weeks, which has been great to see, and now we just have to hope they hold their form.” O’Sullivan and Scott won 66 races last season, which was a new record for their decade-long partnership, and they are well on track to set another new benchmark with 30 winners from just 136 runners so far in 2024-25. They will have representation in two of Saturday’s three black-type features at Te Rapa, with Sassy Lass lining up in the Gr.3 Skycity Hamilton Waikato Cup (2400m) while Karman Line, Kelly Coe, Little Bit Of Love and Uderzo contest the Gr.3 J Swap Sprint (1400m). “Sassy Lass got caught up in a bit of that interference in the Counties Cup (Gr.3, 2100m) last start, and probably raced a bit fresh that day as well, with it being her first start in six weeks,” O’Sullivan said. “She’s been in work for quite a long time now, but you wouldn’t know it when you look at her. She’s drawn well on Saturday, she likes Te Rapa, and we think she’ll get her chance. “Karman Line is getting up to her preferred distance on Saturday, but we are taking her on trust a little bit. She has worked better in the past than she has been lately. In saying that, she has shown a bit of a tendency to mix her work a little bit. We know what she’s capable of when she brings her best form to the races, so we’re just trusting that she’ll do that. “We considered the Cal Isuzu Stakes (Gr.2, 1600m) for Kelly Coe, but she’s had a bit of a gap between races, so we decided to stick to the 1400m. She’s going into this race in good order and has drawn the inside gate. “Uderzo has also drawn nicely in gate four, which will be a big assist to his chances, while Little Bit Of Love is probably going to need some luck from out there in gate 12.” View the full article

Otaki trainer Howie Mathews is in high spirits ahead of heading to Trentham on Sunday where he will be represented by stable stalwart Free Spirit and newcomer Gee Force. Eight-year-old mare Free Spirit has been a consistent performer for Mathews, particularly in the latter stages of her current preparation, with the seven-win mare having finished runner-up in three of her last four starts. Despite performing on all surfaces, Mathews said Free Spirit prefers rain-affected going but has elected to continue racing her into summer because of her pleasing run of form and lucrative prizemoney on offer, with Sunday’s Taylor Property Plus 2100 carrying a $50,000 purse. “I was probably going to turn her out because she is really more of a mare that likes her toe in the ground, but I have left her in work because she has been racing so well and I always thought there may be the chance that you get a race like this that only has very moderate numbers for pretty good stake money,” he said. “The way she has been racing, I thought it was a perfect race for her, with 54kg and three (kg) off with Toni Davies (apprentice jockey) on. We are taking a throw at the stumps and seeing how things go.” Mathews said Free Spirit is a beneficiary of the ratings system, which has helped extend her racing career. “In the old days, before the ratings system, seven-win horses would have to race in open company all day long, but she is pretty lucky, she has won seven and she is back in 65 grade,” he said. “We are just taking advantage of the stronger class, and she does race well with lesser weight on her back.” Mathews is leaning towards spelling his mare post Sunday, however, he hasn’t ruled out pressing on with her if she performs beyond expectations. “At this stage, she has had quite a long season, she isn’t telling me that she needs to go out, but she probably needs to go out now after this one,” he said. “But if she wins and runs a slasher, who knows, we are always looking for that unseasonable bit of rain at this time of the year and it brings a horse like her into contention quite strongly. Never say never.” Mathews is also looking forward to lining up Gee Force in the Rothley 1300. The four-year-old son of U S Navy Flag will have his second start for the stable, having been purchased off gavelhouse.com, with a deal brokered after he failed to reach his $10,000 reserve. Previously trained by Johno Benner and Holli Wynyard, Gee Force had four starts for the former Otaki training partnership, for a placing. He ran fourth over 1200m for Mathews at Otaki last month, and his trainer is excited about his prospects. “He is a bit of a hobby horse,” Mathews said. “I bought him with a very good friend of mine, Nayton Mitchell, who started training in the South Island. “We have had a lot of success with horses from Gavelhouse and I like him. He was trained by our good friends Hollie Wynyard and Johno Benner, and he just needed time. I spoke with Hollie and she said he will win races but just be patient with him. “Now he has turned four, he has had a break after he had been in work up north. We are happy with his trials, and his jumpouts have been great. We are taking him on trust, but he will probably end up in the South Island. “I said to Nayton that I will give him two or three runs up here, assess how he is going, and when he is cherry ripe, he can go down there. He has had three runs on the synthetic, so he may be a good horse for the synthetic in Christchurch – a nice, big, roomy synthetic track. That could be his future.” View the full article

Stephen Marsh has endured a frustrating run of bad luck with barrier draws leading into Waikato Cup Day at Te Rapa on Saturday, but the Cambridge trainer still expects his team to make their presence felt. Of the 10 runners Marsh entered across the nine-race card, Mercurial and Provence landed gates 11 and 15 respectively for the Gr.3 J Swap Sprint (1400m), Merchant Queen drew gate 19 in the Pathways The Immigrations Specialists (1200m), Billy Lincoln picked up barrier 12 for the See You @ Te Rapa Tavern (1500m), and Bellarista will jump from the outside gate in a field of nine for the Wentwood Grange 3YO (1200m). “We haven’t had the best of luck with our barrier draws in recent times,” Marsh said. “It’s a sticky gate for Mercurial in the J Swap, and even worse for Provence. She just can’t draw a barrier, that horse. We’re desperate to get a good gate for her and it just hasn’t happened. She’s got gate 15 again here and would have to be one of the unluckiest horses around as far as draws are concerned. “It was an even worse draw for Merchant Queen, who won’t be running there. I’ll save her for a Rating 75 sprint at Ellerslie on Boxing Day instead.” But despite those barrier setbacks, Marsh has liked what he has seen from his Te Rapa contingent in the countdown to Saturday. Last season’s Gr.1 Telegraph (1200m) winner Mercurial is warming into his six-year-old season, having had three starts for a fourth in the Gr.3 Sweynesse Stakes (1215m), a fifth in the Listed Legacy Lodge Sprint (1200m) and a last-start fifth over 1300m at Ellerslie on November 30. “He’s building up his fitness,” Marsh said. “He’s just taken a few runs to get there this time in, being a year older. That’s the reasoning behind running him over the 1400m at Te Rapa on Saturday. It looks a nice race for him, albeit with a bit of weight to carry. If he performs well, it sets him up to step back down to 1200m to try to defend his title in the Telegraph. “It’s a big help that we’ve booked Opie Bosson to ride him. He’s won on him before and will hopefully be able to find him a decent spot from that awkward gate.” Provence won three races last season and tackled black-type company in the autumn, finishing second in the Listed Flying Handicap (1400m) and sixth in the Gr.3 Easter Handicap (1600m). The Savabeel mare holds a nomination for the Gr.1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) at Trentham on January 11. “She ran nicely first-up after having to drop back to last from her outside gate,” Marsh said. “It’s been a frustrating time for her with those draws, but she’ll be in her element once she gets up to the mile. She could be a nice chance in a race like the Thorndon or the Easter later on.” Marsh’s Gr.3 Skycity Hamilton Waikato Cup (2400m) contender Nest Egg will attempt to bounce back from a disappointing New Zealand Cup Carnival at Riccarton last month. The son of Reliable Man had an interrupted run when eighth in the Listed Metropolitan Trophy (2600m) on the first day, then was a well-beaten 13th in the Gr.3 New Zealand Cup (3200m) a week later. “I think you can put a line through those runs, and especially the New Zealand Cup where the Soft7 track didn’t suit him at all,” Marsh said. “He had a week in the paddock after that and is looking good. With a couple of fine days forecast, the Te Rapa track should come back nicely from its Soft6 rating today and should be spot on for him.” Marsh has two well-credentialled runners in the Wentwood Grange 3YO. I’m All In is making his first start since finishing third in the Gr.3 Northland Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) at Ruakaka in August, while lightly raced filly Bellarista was a stylish last-start maiden winner at Te Aroha. “They’re a couple of very nice chances in that three-year-old race,” Marsh said. “Both of Bellarista’s runs so far have been very good. I’m All In was stakes-placed earlier in the season and has managed to draw the inside gate on Saturday, so he’ll get an economical run from there and should have every chance. “Another race where I think we’ve got two nice chances is the Rating 65 2200m. Spring Queen could be a big improver in that race, coming into it off a freshen up and stepping down from Rating 75 grade. Eve’s Song is in particularly good order as well and should be very competitive.” View the full article

Talented juvenile Yaldi will make his first Kiwi appearance as a three-year-old at Te Rapa on Saturday, with plenty of exciting prospects on the horizon. The son of Ardrossan made a big impression when winning on debut in April, giving trainer Andrew Forsman enough confidence to send him across the Tasman for a shot at the Listed ANZAC Day Stakes (1400m), where he lost no admirers when finishing third to Epimeles. After a spell, Yaldi returned to Australia to contest the Gr.3 McNeil Stakes (1200m) in late August and despite finishing at the tail of the field, Forsman was forgiving of his charge, particularly with the likes of Gr.1 The Everest (1200m) placegetter Growing Empire and Gr.1 Caulfield Guineas (1600m) runner-up Feroce in the mix. “We took him to Melbourne and probably found the toughest possible race to run him in first-up, it was a firm track, a windy day and there was a fair bit going on,” Forsman said. “He was up against some of the better three-year-old sprinters in Melbourne and he probably just lost his way a bit that day, it was just too much too soon.” The gelding has accepted into the Wentwood Grange 3YO (1200m) and the COMAG Plumbing, Drainlaying and Roofing Hamilton (1300m) at the Te Rapa meeting, and enters the meeting off the back of a strong trial victory against older horses at Pukekohe last week. “We’ve brought him home from Australia and he had a little freshen-up, and now we’re aiming towards some of those feature races for three-year-olds in the new year,” Forsman said. As a Kiwi-bred and Karaka Yearling Sales graduate, Yaldi is eligible for the $1.5 million Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) and $3.5 million NZB Kiwi (1500m), the latter Forsman is a slotholder for. The gelding also holds an early nomination for the Gr.2 Levin Classic (1400m), to be run on January 11 at Trentham. Another returnee from an Australian campaign, classy staying mare Moonlight Magic will kick off her four-year-old season in the Gr.2 Cal Izuzu Stakes (1600m). The daughter of Almanzor won the Gr.3 Championship Stakes (2100m) before finishing a gallant second to Warmonger in the Gr.1 Queensland Derby (2400m) at Eagle Farm, a performance she was unable to back-up a week later in the Gr.1 Queensland Oaks (2200m). More than satisfied with his filly’s efforts, Forsman allowed Moonlight Magic plenty of time to recover from her big three-year-old preparation and is looking forward to kicking her off in the feature. “We asked a lot of her, she only really hit her best form later in the season and she ran a very game race in a heavy track in the Derby,” he said. “We decided to back her up in the Oaks and it was probably a little bit too much for her, so we thought she deserved to come home, have a nice break and miss the spring. “Hopefully that patience will be rewarded as we get into the new year and the autumn. “Our specific targets this preparation are more a Herbie Dyke (Gr.1, 2000m) or something like that, then you’re seeing if she can be effective at weight-for-age over middle-distance, or if she needs a little bit further. “At this stage, it’s a matter of getting a run or two into her and getting her fit to run in those races.” Forsman will also be represented in the Gr.3 J Swap Sprint (1400m) by Saint Bathans, who will be partnered by Ulrika Holmquist. The last time the Swedish hoop was on board, they missed top honours in this year’s Gr.2 Rich Hill Mile (1600m) by the barest of margins. The son of Maurice comes into the race off the back of a tough effort in the Gr.3 Great Northern Challenge Stakes (1600m) and Forsman is hopeful of a more suitable run in transit for the big galloper. “He just had to work forward from an awkward barrier draw in a small field, leading’s not really his go but it just worked out that way,” he said. “Back to the 1400, hopefully he can tuck in for a bit of cover and there should be a bit more speed. If he can find that cover and there’s a bit of give in the ground, he’s always a chance. He’s certainly capable enough.” The youngest of his quartet, Fat Cat, will make an awaited debut in the ICIB Brokerweb-Insurance Brokers 2YO (1100m). A son of Written Tycoon, Fat Cat won his only trial at Taupo last month and was initially set to debut at New Plymouth last Thursday, a plan curtailed by torrid weather conditions. “We got all the way down to New Plymouth last week and the track was pretty poor, so we elected to bring him home without racing,” Forsman said. “It was too much of a turnaround to get him to Trentham on the following Saturday, so hopefully it can work out this time. “He’ll get a reasonable track, it’s not easy to have one trial and go to the races, particularly when plenty of his opposition have had a fair bit of trialling and racing, that’s always a big advantage. But, he’s drawn well enough and he’ll get his chance to prove where he’s at and what he’s up for at the moment.” View the full article

Ablaze jumps a hurdle on his way to winning the Grand National Hurdle (4200m) at Sandown. Photo: Pat Scala/Racing Photos Racing Victoria (RV) has committed to the future of jumps racing in Victoria, following an extensive review that concluded with the decision to implement new safety and operational measures. The review, spearheaded by RV’s Executive General Manager – Integrity, Jamie Stier, and former Supreme Court Judge, Justice Jack Forrest, has led to the establishment of the Jumps Taskforce (JT) tasked with overseeing these enhancements. After reviewing over 350 submissions, the Jumps Review Group (JRG) presented their findings to the RV Board, which then agreed to adopt several strategic measures. Changes made to jumps racing in Victoria Season Adjustment: The season will start no earlier than five weeks before the Warrnambool May Carnival and end mid-August at Ballarat, reducing the total number of jumps races. Venue Specialisation: Jumps racing will focus on tracks specifically prepared for it. Sale will no longer host jumps races, and Pakenham will phase out jumps racing by 2025. Nominations and Venue Changes: If a race meeting includes jumps races and cannot proceed as scheduled, the jumps races will be cancelled rather than transferred. Track Compliance: Enhanced track preparation compliance regimes and checklist processes will be implemented. Jumps Trials Improvements: Jumps trials will increase in competitiveness to better replicate race conditions, with larger field sizes and adjusted trial distances. Alternative Trial Venues: Use of additional venues like Terang and Hamilton for trials to distribute wear and optimise conditions. Formal Schooling Days: Introduction of formal schooling sessions at appropriate venues like Ballarat and Cranbourne to better prepare horses and jockeys. Jumps Jockey Coaching: Engagement of a former jumps jockey as a Jumps Jockey Coach to mentor current jockeys. Hurdle Adjustments: Permanent adoption of loosened straps on hurdles after successful trials. Obstacle Placement: Strategic placement of jumps obstacles at each venue to enhance safety. Financial Oversight: Establishment of an RV working group to examine the financial performance of jumps racing, including cost reductions and funding opportunities. Racing Victoria’s Chairman, Tim Eddy, expressed gratitude and outlined the organisation’s commitment to safety and sustainability: “After careful consideration of the findings and recommendations presented by the Jumps Review Group and the Executive, the Racing Victoria Board has resolved to continue jumps racing alongside a suite of new safety and operational improvements. “This decision reflects our recognition of jumps racing’s cultural and economic significance to regional Victoria, particularly its vital role in events such as the Warrnambool May Carnival. “To ensure we deliver on the adopted recommendations, Racing Victoria will now establish a Jumps Taskforce to oversee their execution. This group will monitor jumps racing’s performance and will report directly to the RV Board, as we strive for improvement. “I want to extend my gratitude to the Jumps Review Group for their thorough and balanced assessment of jumps racing. I also wish to thank the individuals and organisations who contributed to the review process and tabled a submission. “We are committed to ensuring jumps racing continues to evolve, with safety, integrity, and sustainability at the forefront of every decision we make.” Horse racing news View the full article

What The Gold Rush Day 2024 Where Ascot Racecourse – 71 Grandstand Rd, Ascot WA 6104 When Saturday, December 14, 2024 First Race 12:33pm AWST Visit Dabble The Group 3 Gold Rush will headline the nine-race program at Ascot this Saturday afternoon, where the first race is set to jump at 12:33pm AWST. The track is expected to stay in the Good 4 rating that was posted at the time of acceptances, with perfect weather forecast in the lead-up to the meeting. The rail will be moved back into its true position for the entire circuit. The Gold Rush tip: Super Smink Following a strong performance in the Group 1 Railway Stakes and an unlucky run in the Group 1 Northerly Stakes, Super Smink appears primed to claim another Group 3 victory in The Gold Rush on Saturday. The Daniel Morton-trained mare has been racing well this preparation, recording three placings and one win from five starts. This daughter of Super One will receive an economical run from barrier five, and if she can get out to the middle of the track turning for home, Super Smink will prove too strong late. The Gold Rush Race 8 – #14 Super Smink (5) 4yo Mare | T: Daniel Morton | J: Chris Parnham (57kg) +400 with Picklebet Starstruck Classic tip: Own The Queen Own The Queen produced a barnstorming finish fresh and was narrowly beaten over 1400m in a Benchmark 72+ Handicap contest. The Justine Erkelens-trained mare settled on the fence at the back of the field before she picked her way through the field to put in a late lunge outside of Fast Flicker. This daughter of Awesome Rock claimed a dominant victory over 1600m second-up last campaign, and after drawing the ace barrier, expect Own The Queen to get the run of the race and go one better. Starstruck Classic Race 7 – #1 Own The Queen (1) 4yo Mare | T: Justine Erkelens | J: Troy Turner (59kg) +450 with Dabble Best Bet at Ascot: The Boss Lady The Boss Lady broke through for a deserving victory in the Listed Jungle Dawn Classic, where the Michael Lane-trained mare ran home strongly from the midfield to win by half a length. The Street Boss mare will rise in the weights to 58.5kg, but with her dropping in class to a Benchmark 78+ Handicap, those factors will offset each other. Now she is at peak fitness, and Chris Parnham will retain the ride, The Boss Lady only has to replicate that performance to win again. Best Bet Race 4 – #3 The Boss Lady (6) 4yo Mare | T: Michael Lane | J: Chris Parnham (58.5kg) +180 with Neds Next Best at Ascot: The Spruiker Steve Wolfe and Shaun McGruddy will combine with The Spruiker for the 31st time, and the seven-year-old gelding looks primed to record another victory third-up. Last start, the son of I’m All The Talk rattled home from the back of the field and finished second behind Miss Skyhigh over 1400m, indicating that a rise in trip will suit. From barrier 13, McGruddy will settle worse than midfield on The Spruiker, and with a strong speed expected, a similar finishing burst will give him every chance to win. Next Best Race 9 – #12 The Spruiker (13) 7yo Gelding | T: Steve Wolfe | J: Shaun McGruddy (55.5kg) +700 with PlayUp Ascot quaddie tips for Gold Rush Day Ascot quadrella selections Saturday, December 14, 2024 4-6-10-13 1-2-7 1-2-3-14-16 2-5-12 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip More horse racing tips View the full article

Team Romantic Warrior dominates, but plenty of others also grab their share of elite-level glory.View the full article

Eddie Truman, a longtime Southern California trainer who died Dec. 11 at age 77, never met an activity he didn't want to try. View the full article

The Rangiora all weather track was inspected this week following severe winds last Sunday, leaving it in need of repairs. John Denton and the Rangiora track staff will spend Monday/Tuesday undertaking remedial work, including applying a significant amount of new material onto the surface. Current expectation is it will be completed next week and in time for the next all weather meeting on January 1. Rangiora will also host a 10 race programme on the grass this Sunday. View the full article

Port Lockroy. Photo: Bradleyphotos.com.au Annabel Neasham is hopeful that last-start Group 1 winner Port Lockroy will finish his preparation on a high as he tackles the Group 2 Ingham (1600m). The four-year-old, who claimed the Group 1 Railway Stakes (1600m) three weeks ago in Perth, is now back on the east coast and faces a significant weight rise in the $2 million contest. However, Neasham, who trains in partnership with Rob Archibald, believes the entire deserves his chance. “He had to fly back into Melbourne because that was the only option,” Neasham told Sky Sports Radio. “He had just under a week there to break up the trip, and he’s back in Sydney. “He galloped on Tuesday, he’s very fit now so he doesn’t take much work. He won with 53 kilos on his back, and he’s carrying 58 on Saturday now he has that higher rating. “He has confidence, and we think the mile is his sweet spot. It’d be a nice way to end the preparation if we could knock off another big race with him.” Port Lockroy, rated $11 with horse racing bookmakers, is one of two horses in The Ingham for the stable and has a much easier draw in barrier three than stablemate Mighty Ulysses, who is set to jump from gate 20 in the capacity field of 24. Horse racing news View the full article

The Map. (Photo by George Sal/Racing Photos) The Map has returned to work in preparation for another attempt at the Group 2 Adelaide Cup (3200m), a race in which the mare finished second last season. The six-year-old was last seen finishing ahead of only two rivals as a $71 outsider in the Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m), having earned her place in the Flemington feature by winning the Listed Andrew Ramsden Stakes (2800m) in May. Dan Clarken and Oopy MacGillivray’s nine-time winner enjoyed a short break in the paddock following her latest run but is now gearing up for another shot at the South Australian Group 2 feature in mid-March. “She’s back in, she’s come through the run very well and had three weeks in the paddock. “She’s been back in swimming and walking, so we’re more than happy with where she’s at,” MacGillivray told Racing.com. Horse racing news View the full article

Here To Shock. Photo: Bradleyphotos.com.au Here To Shock could be set to head to Pakenham to chase the significant prize money on offer in The Supernova, with an 800-metre jump-out at Flemington on Friday potentially determining whether the 11-time winner lines up just eight days later. Co-trainers Ben, Will, and JD Hayes already have Arkansaw Kid confirmed as a runner in the $1 million contest on December 21, with the Group 2 winner taking Cavallo Park’s slot. Lindsay Park Racing also holds a slot in the race. Although plans are still to be confirmed, Ben Hayes mentioned on Wednesday that Here To Shock is in the mix to fill that slot. “Here To Shock has won almost $2 million in prize money and has been freshened since his unplaced run in the $3 million Big Dance (1600m) on November 5,” Hayes said. “Unfortunately, with 62 kilos in the Big Dance, and the mile, it just sorted him out.” Meanwhile, Hayes noted that Arkansaw Kid has trained on well since his close second to Welwal in the Group 3 Kevin Heffernan Stakes (1400m). “He still ran really well and did everything correct, so he will head there (to The Supernova) and he’s in great form,” Hayes added. Horse racing news View the full article

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