Wandering Eyes

John Banno will oversee the The Maryland Jockey Club racetrack team responsible for maintaining the surfaces at Laurel Park, Pimlico Race Course, and the brand-new training center at Shamrock Farm.View the full article

RIYADH, KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA — Making his first appearance in the International Jockeys' Challenge on the eve of the Saudi Cup meeting at King Abdulaziz Racecourse, journeyman jockey Muhammad Aldaham became the first homegrown rider to take out the competition, amassing a total of 30 points with victories in the first two legs of the series. Australia's Rachel King finished on 25 points to finish second ahead of James McDonald, whose 21 points was achieved in three races, owing to the scratching of his ride in race three of the competition. Aldaham, who has been riding for about 15 years, guided KSA-bred sons of ex-Juddmonte runner First Defence in each of the first two legs, narrowly defeating McDonald into the runner-up spot in the second race on the program (video) before easily besting King in race three (video). Oisin Murphy won his first race in the Kingdom in the third leg of the Challenge, producing Prince Faisal Bin Khaled Bin A/Aziz's Honky Tonk Man (Ire) (Tamayuz {GB}) wide into the straight before powering clear to give outgoing trainer Jimmy Jerkens a landmark success (video). The 6-year-old was previously trained in Britain by Harry and Roger Charlton and was purchased by his current owner for 150,000gns at the 2022 Tattersalls Autumn Horses In Training Sale. Jerkens confirmed that he is most likely going ahead with plans to terminate his contract in the KSA to return to the training ranks in America. “His first start back here from Ta'if wasn't good for whatever reason, but all the other races he came second or third,” Jerkens said. When asked if his plans to leave remain in place, he replied: “Most likely. I want to thank Prince Faisal for the opportunity to train his horses.” Jerkens will saddle Prince Faisal's Ancestral Land (GB) (Sioux Nation) in Saturday's G2 Riyadh Dirt Sprint. King saved the best for last astride Miyagi (Ire) (James Garfield {Ire}) as he chopped out his competition in the finale over 2100 metres on turf, pulling well clear in the final stages to lock up second spot in the Challenge (video). Miyagi was previously trained by Kevin Philippart de Foy before changing hands for 55,000gns at Tattersalls Autumn HIT Sale in 2022. McDonald gained fourth in the final couple of jumps to pick up four points and finish a clear third. Many of Aldaham's victories in the current season have come for trainer Thamer Aldaihani, who saddled race one winner Jadhoon. One of Aldaham's biggest wins came aboard the Aldaihani-conditioned Uncle (GB) (Harry Angel {Ire}) in the Listed King Faisal Cup on Jan. 4. The post Aldaham Becomes First Locally Based Winner Of International Jockeys’ Challenge appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Horse Racing Women's Association (HRWA) has scheduled its first event of the season, which will take place beginning at 10:00 a.m. ET on Friday, Mar. 28 at Gulfstream Park, according to a press release from the group on Friday. The day includes opportunities for networking, learning, and sports some friendly competition for all attendees. Local guest speaker Sheri Holmes Stirling, Vice President of Administration at the track, will offer remarks. Participants will have the opportunity to enhance their handicapping skills through a seminar led by Samantha Perry and Claudia Spadaro. Click here for more information. The post HRWA Kicks Off Season With Handicapping Event At Gulfstream Park Mar. 28 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Edith Pelham (GB), a five-year-old daughter of Blue Bresil (Fr), became the most expensive British-trained point-to-point mare sold at auction after being bought at the Tattersalls Cheltenham Sale for £180,000. Consigned by Gina Andrews and Tom Ellis of G&T Racing, Edith Pelham was bought by trainer Fergal O'Brien on behalf of owner Jane May. She had previously been picked up as a store for £40,000 and won on debut at Sheriff Hutton in January for Andrews. “We loved the way she ran, she is coming from a good producer, she has been very well schooled, very well looked after, and is by a good sire in Blue Bresil. We loved everything about her, and she vetted very clean,” said O'Brien. May added, “This is the first horse we will have with Fergal. We have bred our own horses for a long time, but we are getting too old for that now so we thought we'd come and buy something nice. “We watched her race, she took her fences beautifully, she ran on well. We have been in the game for 67 years, so we hope we have an idea now.” With 22 of the 27 catalogued lots sold, seven of which changed hands for six-figure sums, the clearance rate was 86% and the sale also achieved a record median of £80,000. The post Record Price for British PTP Mare at Tattersalls Cheltenham appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

When Iowa-bred Cyclone State (McKinzie) breaks out of the starting gate for Saturday's $1.5-million G3 Saudi Derby, part of the Saudi Cup undercard at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh, odds are that the loudest cheers will be emanating from halfway across the world at the Iowa State University (ISU) Equine Farm. That is where the colt, bred by Allen Poindexter, was born on April 29, 2022. It's an evening foaling that Nikki Ferwerda, a faculty member of the ISU Animal Science department and manager of the university's equine facilities, still remembers vividly, namely due to the notoriety of Cyclone State's dam, multiple stakes winner and graded stakes-placed Chanel's Legacy (Dominus). “To be honest, we were a little nervous when Allen wanted Chanel's Legacy to foal here. We were like, 'I don't know Allen, that's an awfully nice mare,' and just didn't feel that we wanted the extra responsibility. [But overall,] it was pretty exciting to have the mare here and [Allen] was of course super excited for Chanel to have an Iowa-bred foal,” she said. “Everything went well here as far as foaling. He was a beautiful foal when he was born. A tall, leggy colt, he was always just very charismatic and one that everybody always liked to look at.” The arrival of the long-legged bay adorned with splashes of white on all four legs marked a full-circle moment for Chanel's Legacy, herself an Iowa-bred, and a continuation of Poindexter's support of Iowa's Thoroughbred industry. A perennial leading owner and breeder in the state, the Missouri-based Poindexter sends around 15 to 20 mares to Iowa to foal out each year. Cyclone State as a foal | courtesy of Iowa State University Equine Program “What I've been trying to do over the past 15 years is improve the breeding of Iowa-bred horses to make Iowa people proud, showing that Iowa-breds can run against anything. It doesn't matter if it's Kentucky, California, Florida or whatever, we raise good horses in Iowa. It's very important to me because I think it gives credibility to the industry there, which is a big part of the [state's] economy, and can hopefully be continued for years to come,” said Poindexter. His longtime support of the state's program has also led to Poindexter's longstanding relationship with ISU's equine program. A team effort amongst the staff and students, the equine program not only foals out Thoroughbred mares for clients to meet the criteria for the Iowa-bred program, but also provides services for a variety of breeds while giving students a unique, hands-on education. “I wanted to find a way to offer services to horsemen in the industry and combine that with teaching opportunities for the students here at Iowa State. We offer breeding and foaling services and then a limited amount of sales preparation, just what we have space for, in addition to our own. We have a number of clients that we provide some of these services for, and each one of those clients and their horses are involved in some aspect of our teaching program,” explained Ferwerda. “Students at Iowa State get more practical experience, more hands-on time, with animals than I think they do anywhere else that I'm aware of. Instead of 20 people in a class coming and watching one or two mares foal, each student is assigned four to six mares. It's then their responsibility to watch them, come to the foaling and help with the initial care of the foal once the delivery is over with. “Kristen Edgington, my assistant manager, plays a huge role because she is there for the foalings and talks the students through everything that needs to be done. She is as good as anyone out there at correcting a dystocia and ensures that all of our foals get off to a good start.” On average, Ferwerda and her team foal out between 70 and 80 mares a year, with the majority of mares either Thoroughbreds or Quarter Horses. Along with the foaling aspect, ISU stands three Thoroughbred stallions including Grade I winner Free Drop Billy (Union Rags), multiple graded stakes winner Timeline (Hard Spun), and stakes winner Blueblood (City Zip). “The Thoroughbred program has been huge for Iowa State, specifically the Iowa-bred Thoroughbred program. The reason it has really grown [here] is because as we've started offering these services, we've also had folks in Iowa retire or are no longer offering the same services. So, there was a need, and us being available to open our doors has been a really big advantage from a business perspective,” said Ferwerda. Along with providing the foals a solid foundation in their early days, Ferwerda aims to give each student that comes through the barn doors the same in hopes that they will find a connection with the horses that blossoms into pursuit of a career within the equine industry. Cyclone State workout | Mathea Kelley/JSCA “I think that we look at each of our farms as a model, hopefully, for our students. We [not only] model quality care, but also a breeding program that has shown improvements over time. We bring our students along for the ride to see how we are making improvements and changes, like breeding better mares to nicer stallions, and that allows [the farm] to be the biggest classroom ever,” said Ferwerda. “I'm trying to encourage the next generation. I know it's kind of scary and daunting if you're not already involved, so we're hoping that [ISU's equine program] can be a stepping stone in that encouraging factor to get people started.” The elevation of quality coming out of Iowa is best exemplified by the program's latest star, Cyclone State. After spending his first few weeks at ISU's farm, the colt and his dam shipped back to Kentucky. A year later, he was consigned to the Keeneland September Yearling Sale with Wynnstay Sales and purchased by Joe Hardoon, agent for Al Gold of Gold Square for $70,000. It was then that Gold reached out to his partners on the colt, George Messina and Michael Lee, to request their help in deciding on a fitting name. “Al texted us and said, 'I name too many horses. Why don't you all have some fun and name this horse?' We got with [my sons] Trace and Andrew and we were kicking around names. Since he was an Iowa-bred, we were trying to think of something Iowa. We talked about 'Caucus State,' and then we kicked around 'Purdy,' because of Brock Purdy who played as the quarterback at Iowa State, and then we settled on Cyclone State [for ISU's mascot]. With him being from Iowa, it was a natural fit,” said Messina. Sent to trainer Chad Summers, Cyclone State may have taken a few months to find his rhythm on the track, but was quick to reward connections once he found his sweet spot: going a mile on the dirt. Barring a runner-up finish in a maiden at Aqueduct last September, the son of McKinzie carries a three-race win streak at the distance, highlighted by his most recent victory in the Jan. 4 Jerome Stakes at Aqueduct. In that victorious stakes debut, Cyclone State powered home to best the runner-up by 3 ½ lengths while earning 10 points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby. It was that performance that convinced his connections that he was ready for a trip overseas. Cyclone State wins the Jerome Stakes at the Big A | Coglianese “Every day I wake up and pinch myself,” said Messina. “We made a couple of trips to Saratoga, Mike and I, this [past] summer when he was up there. The horse showed some talent up there but obviously we didn't think we'd be where we are today. When [Cyclone State] broke his maiden, Chad said, 'We're going to win the allowance next and then the Jerome is our goal,' and the plan worked out perfectly. After we won the Jerome, Chad came up with the idea of going to Saudi. We started talking about the competition and it was a no-brainer.” For Poindexter, whose dedication to supporting regional programs led to Chanel's Legacy giving birth to an Iowa-bred of her own, there's no greater feeling than seeing one of his own represent Iowa on the international stage. “I love the people of Iowa, that's the main reason that I send those mares there, and I love Prairie Meadows and their staff. I breed my graded stakes mares and foal them [in Iowa] to try and increase the quality of the program. Over the last 10 years, you'll see a lot of improvement and better horses,” said Poindexter. “[This weekend], I have horses [that I've bred] running in Saudi, Hong Kong, and another one running in Japan. We have horses all over the world running that are Iowa-breds.” And when it comes to those who knew Cyclone State in his early days at ISU, a feeling of pride doesn't even begin to cover it. “We love watching them all as they grow up and take off in their new careers and obviously, we want them all to be successful. I think this one is just a little bit more incredible because it is at that national, international level,” Ferwerda said. “It's showing how much Iowa is leveling up their horses here and to have an Iowa-bred at that stage is really fun. And then his name is just the icing on the cake for us, it ties it all together.” From the comfort of the ISU equine barn in Ames, Iowa to the grandeur of King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, one thing is for certain: Cyclone State has become the pride of his birthplace. The post The Pride Of Iowa: Cyclone State Steps Up To International Stage In Saudi Derby appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The margin was only a head, but a crafty ride from Mickael Barzalona saw the Night Of Thunder (Ire) filly CHOISYA (GB) (–Fragrancy {Ire}, by Singspiel {Ire}) spring the upset over Godolphin's Grade I winner Cinderella's Dream (GB) (Shamardal) in the G2 Balanchine at Meydan on Friday. The final time for the grassy 1800 metres was 1:48.78. Content to rate in a stalking position for much of this just to the outside of her chief rival, the chestnut was sitting on go as Ziggy's Dream (Ire) (Inns Of Court {Ire}) carried the field to the 400-metre mark. Barzalona had Choisya fully revved for the stretch drive and she got the jump on Cinderella's Dream who had to split horses as that pair took over. It was a fierce battle to the line, but that earlier move proved decisive, with the Godolphin runner cutting back the winner's deficit with every stride to just miss. Lifetime Record: 19-7-5-0. VIDEO. O-Mohammed Al Nabouda. B-Rabbah Bloodstock, Limited (GB). T-Simon & Ed Crisford. Wow! and @mickaelbarzalon stun ' in the G2 @DPWorldUAE Balanchine Stakes #DubaiCarnival | @gainsboroughHQ pic.twitter.com/wDnY1jCmiA — Dubai Racing Club (@RacingDubai) February 21, 2025 The post Night Of Thunder’s Choisya Shocks Cinderella’s Dream In Balanchine appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

QUEEN AZTECA (f, 3, Sharp Azteca–Princesa Helena, by Palace Malice) wore down the game frontrunner Arigatou Gozaimasu (Honest Mischief) in the final strides to take the G3 UAE Oaks Presented by DP World by three-quarters of a length at Meydan on Friday. Still four lengths in arrears at the furlong grounds, the Kentucky-bred closed in determined fashion to just pip the leader. The final time for the 1900 metres on dirt was 2:00.43. Sales history: $22,000 Ylg '23 KEESEP; 30,000gns 2yo '24 TATMAY. Lifetime Record: 6-3-1-0. VIDEO. O-Glaesner Racing APS. B-Three Chimneys Farm, LLC (KY). T-Niels Petersen. *1ST BLACK-TYPE WIN. 1ST GROUP WIN. “ℎ !” rules in an epic renewal of the G3 @DPWorldUAE-sponsored UAE Oaks Niels Petersen Carlos Lopez #DubaiCarnival pic.twitter.com/1lihuW5WIk — Dubai Racing Club (@RacingDubai) February 21, 2025 The post Dramatic UAE Oaks Goes To Sharp Azteca Filly appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

GALACTIC STAR (g, 3, Improbable–Stella's Dream, by Pioneerof The Nile) gave his late sire his third worldwide stakes winner in the Listed Al Bastakiya presented by DP World at Meydan on Friday. The 1900-metre dirt race is a prep for the Apr. 5 G2 UAE Derby over the same track and trip on Dubai World Cup night. Honest Moon (Honest Mischief) led with Galactic Star moving up to race just off that rival's shoulder into the first turn. Saving every inch of ground in a stalking fourth on the backside, the eventual winner was in a good rhythm. Honest Moon still led at the 700-metre mark, with Galactic Star looming closer and the hard-working Undefeated (Vekome) in third. Changing gears, he wore down Honest Moon by the 150-metre mark and had enough left to hold off the late surge of Heart Of Honor (Honor A. P.) by a head. Honest Moon was third, a length behind. A debut winner at Jebel Ali over 1200 metres in January, the gelding ran third in a Meydan affair upped to 1600 metres on Feb. 7. Friday's effort was his third lifetime start. He was selected by trainer Bhupat Seemar for 185,000gns out of the Powerstown Stud draft of the Tattersalls Craven Breeze-Up Sale in April of 2024. Tom Whitehead's operation had purchased the chestnut for $145,000 at the 2023 Keeneland September Yearling Sale from Warrendale Sales. His dam was unraced, and has a yearling colt by Nashville still to come. She was covered by Americanrevolution last spring, with Galactic Star one of five winners from six to race. The second dam, the stakes-placed Meadow Dream (Meadowlake), is a half-sister to GII Pegasus Handicap hero Forty One Carats (Tactical Advantage). Sales history: $145,000 Ylg '23 KEESEP; 185,000gns HRA '24 TATAPR. Lifetime Record: 3-2-0-1, AED540,700. VIDEO. O-Blue Blood Racing Syndicate – Kamlesh Mahtani & Dhruv Sahni. B-Rock Ridge Thoroughbreds, LLC (KY). T-Bhupat Seemar. GALACTIC STAR gamely repels the fast-finishing HEART OF HONOR in the Listed Al Bastakiya Stakes, sponsored by @DPWorldUAE @BhupatSeemar | @rpmullen1 | #DubaiCarnival pic.twitter.com/bbK4db9HKg — Dubai Racing Club (@RacingDubai) February 21, 2025 The post Third Stakes Winner For The Late Improbable In Dubai appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

8th-SA, 60K, Msw, 3yo, 6f, 7:02 p.m. Drawn side by side are a pair of Baffert stablemates led by $700,000 KEESEP grad VOLDEMORT (Good Magic) who counts MGISW and late leading sire Pioneerof the Nile (Empire Maker) as an extended family member. The Triple Crown-nominated colt comes in off an extended work tab including a last-out four furlong drill in :47 2/5 (11/87). He draws inside of Tiz Secure (Maximum Security), a Watson/Weitman homebred out of MGISW Tough Tiz's Sis who has already produced GSW/GISP Tiz Midnight, herself responsible for MGSW/GISP and $1.45m KEENOV broodmare Midnight Memories (Mastery). Another half-sister, Tension (Tapit), produced MGSW Rocket Can (Into Mischief) who factored in the 2023 Triple Crown trail. Richard Mandella debuts Prayer (Quality Road), a full-brother to SW/MGSP Gingham and El Camino Real Derby winner Blackadder. TJCIS PPS Now named: Voldemort GOOD MAGIC Colt o/o a young Bernardini mare Beauty Buzz, his Empire Maker Second dam is a full sister to Pioneer Of The Nile. Voldemort was born May 4th and made $700,000 in Book Four Sept @keenelandsales Sold by @Gainesway for @WalmacLLC He will… pic.twitter.com/3Dipz3r4lf — Tom Ryan (@TomRyanKY) January 25, 2024 2nd-TAM, 53K, Msw, 3yo, f, 1m 40yds, 12:58 p.m. High Note (Curlin), the $450,000 FTSAUG half-sister to MGISW Verrazano (More Than Ready), debuts from the outside gate for Chad Brown. First dam Enchanted Rock, who initially sold for $2,000,000 carrying a full-sibling to Verrazano at KEENOV in 2017, has also produced GII Risen Star Stakes winner El Padrino (Pulpit) and MSP La Madrina (Tapit). The family includes a champion older mare in Queena (Mr. Prospector) and plenty of graded blacktype led of GISW Somali Lemondade (Lemon Drop Kid), GISW Serra Lake (Seattle Slew) and MGSW/MGISP Hungry Island (More Than Ready). She's drawn outside second-time starter Mischief in Motion (Into Mischief) who missed as the favorite going 5 1/2 furlongs on the Tapeta at Gulfstream Jan. 8 but now stretches out for Michael Trombetta. TJCIS PPS The post Saturday Insights: Baffert Debuts Pair At Santa Anita appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

American trainers are a rare breed at Saudi Cup 2025 but the few who are here sing the praises of international racing.View the full article

Voyage Bubble and Ka Ying Rising hope to extend their group 1 winning streaks in a pair of top-level contests at Sha Tin Racecourse Feb. 23.View the full article

The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) and the Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit (HIWU), in collaboration with the Pennsylvania State Horse Racing Commission (PSHRC), are pursuing cases against one veterinarian and 13 trainers in connection with an organized effort to evade HISA rules designed to protect and enhance the health and safety of horses and riders, according to a press release from the regulator on Friday. A coordinated investigation–first reported in an article published in the TDN–led by the PSHRC revealed that veterinarian Dr. Allen Post Bonnell allegedly conspired with the implicated trainers from May 2023 through November 2024 to administer intra-articular injections to the joints of Covered Horses within the prohibited stand-down periods, in direct violation of HISA's Anti-Doping and Medication Control (ADMC) and Racetrack Safety Programs—whose rules are in place to safeguard equine health and ensure fair competition. As a result of the alleged violations, HISA and HIWU will pursue sanctions against these Covered Persons as described in HISA's rules, including the disqualification of more than 100 horses from previous race results and subsequent forfeiture of purses, periods of Ineligibility for the Covered Persons and fines. While all horses were allegedly injected at Penn National Race Course, they participated in races at 10 different racetracks subject to HISA's rules, across six different states. HISA has verified that of the more than 100 unique horses alleged to have breezed or raced in violation of HISA's intra-articular stand down times, 30% never raced again, strongly suggesting these injections were used to mask pain. Approximately 10% were observed to be lame post-race by a regulatory veterinarian. Three horses were euthanized as a direct result of injuries sustained in those races. “This egregious breach of integrity and intentional undermining of equine welfare is a stark reminder of why rigorous oversight and enforcement are critical to the future of horse racing,” said HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus. “The health and safety of horses and jockeys are paramount, and those who deliberately put them at risk will be held accountable.” From the inception of the ADMC Program on May 22, 2023 through July 7, 2024, HIWU enforced intra-articular injection rule violations. As of July 8, 2024, HISA has been enforcing intra-articular injection protocols under its revised Racetrack Safety Program. Further details, including disciplinary actions and sanctions against those involved, will be released in accordance with the disclosure requirements under the Racetrack Safety Program and ADMC Program. HISA, HIWU and the PSHRC remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting the integrity of the sport and the welfare of its equine and human athletes. The post HISA and HIWU Pursue Pennsylvania Cases Against Veterinarian And 13 Trainers In Widespread Conspiracy appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The new Maryland Jockey Club (TMJC) has hired veteran John Banno as Director of Racing Surfaces, the organization said in a press release on Friday morning. Previously the superintendent at Thistledown, Banno brings over 30 years of industry experience to the role. He will oversee the TMJC track team as they maintain the dirt surfaces at Laurel Park, Pimlico Race Course, and the brand-new training center at Shamrock Farm. “John is the perfect fit for the Maryland Jockey Club,” said President and General Manager Bill Knauf. “He has a proven track record and great experience. We look forward to his work on the new Pimlico Race Course and new training center.” Banno started working at Thistledown as a truck driver and heavy equipment operator before assuming the role of superintendent in 2003. In addition to managing the racing surface at Thistledown, Banno was also responsible for maintaining compliance and contractor relations with the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Agriculture. Laurel Park also named Danny Finke as Track Superintendent. Finke served as Interim Track Superintendent before the promotion. The post Veteran Track Super To Manage Dirt Surfaces For Maryland Jockey Club appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

In the wake of Smarty Jones's first appearance on the Hall of Fame ballot, announced Thursday, the Pennsylania Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, Bob Hutt, issued a statement indicating how meaningful the nomination was to the organizations around the state. Roy and Patricia Chapman's champion three-year-old of 2004 won his first eight races, including the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, before falling a length short in the Belmont Stakes, where a record 120,000 people turned out to see him bid for the Triple Crown. He was retired after that race. “On behalf of the Chapman family, the PTHA, PHBA, PARX and racing fans all over the world, we wish to thank the Hall of Fame nominating committee for selecting Smarty Jones to be a 2025 finalist for the Horse Racing Hall of Fame. Everybody at Parx and the commonwealth of Pennsylvania is proud of our brilliant Pennsylvania bred Kentucky Derby and Preakness champion, a horse that captured the hearts and imagination of millions of people in the United States and around the world. As the voters consider Smarty's candidacy, we would like to thank them for their due diligence.” –Bob Hutt, President, PTHA The post `Pennsylvania Proud’: PTHA Thanks Hall for Smarty Jones Nomination appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Hong Kong sprinter extraordinaire Ka Ying Rising (NZ) (Shamexpress {NZ}) headlines the HK$13-million G1 Queen's Silver jubilee Cup at Sha Tin on Sunday. Trained by David Hayes for the Ka Ying Syndicate, the likeable gelding is operating on a nine-race winning streak, and had the re-opposing Helios Express (Aus) (Toronado {Ire}) and Howdeepisyourlove (Aus) (Deep Field {Aus}) second and third when he took the G1 Centenary Sprint Cup last month over his pet distance of 1200 metres. The world's highest rated turf sprinter in 2024, the gelding will be partnered with Karis Teetan for the first time in his 12-race career, and the duo leave from gate nine. Regular rider Zac Purton is sidelined by a toe injury sustained in a three-horse fall on Feb. 10. Defending champ and 2024 Hong Kong Champion Sprinter California Spangle (Aus) (Starspangledbanner {Aus}) is looking for a return to form, but has picked a tough spot for it. After his win in this race a year ago, he took his show on the road with a successful foray to Meydan and added the G1 Al Quoz Sprint in March, but he's been winless in five additional starts. Patch Of Theta (Aus) (Zoustar {Aus}) defeated the gelding in the G3 Challenge Cup on New Year's Day, and Voyage Bubble (Aus) (Deep Field {Aus}), Galaxy Patch (Aus) (Wandjina {Aus}), and Red Lion (Ire) (Belardo {Ire}) ran one-two-three when they met in the Jan. 19 G1 Stewards' Cup going a mile. The Tony Cruz trainee was unplaced in each of those efforts. “You saw the barrier trial, he's back in business. The trial was good and the jockey was very happy with him,” Cruz said of the gelding, whose chances of defending his Al Quoz title hinge on this start. “His condition compared to last season is not as good, so we'll make a decision after the race on Sunday. Let's see the outcome before we decide on Dubai.” Last year's 2024 G1 Chairman's Sprint Prize hero Invincible Sage (Aus) (Thronum {Aus}) is aiming for his second top-level ring and leaves from stall three in the nine-horse field. He was fourth to Ka Ying Rising in the Centenary Sprint Cup. Gold Cup Up For Grabs With Hong Kong poster boy Romantic Warrior (Ire) (Acclamation {GB}) trying dirt for the first time in the $20-million 1800-metre G1 Saudi Cup in Riyadh the day prior with James McDonald in the irons, the G1 Hong Kong Gold Cup is a fairly open race. Multiple Group 1 winner Voyage Bubble will try for four-in-a-row and has the services of McDonald, who will arriving fresh from Riyadh on Saturday. Second to Galaxy Patch in the G2 Sha Tin Trophy over 1600 metres in October, the son of Deep Field has not lost since, taking the G1 Hong Kong Mile over Soul Rush (Jpn) (Rulership {Jpn}), Beauty Joy (Aus) (Sebring {Aus}), and Chancheng Glory (Mor Spirit) on Dec. 8. He added the aforementioned Stewards' Cup over several of these at a mile on Jan. 19. Of Chancheng Glory, reigning Hong Kong Champion Trainer Francis Lui said, “Chancheng Glory is also in good form. He's maintained his form, so we hope he can run well.” A dual champion trainer in Hong Kong, Cruz is sending a three-pronged attack against Voyage Bubble in Five G Patch (Ire) (Camelot {GB}), La City Blanch (Arg) (Cityscape {GB}) and Winning Dragon (Chi) (Ivan Denisovich {Ire}) in the 2000-metre feature. The trio break from gates 10, two, and three, respectively. “They're all ready for the race. They're all 2000 metres and above horses, but I'm happy with their condition going into the race,” Cruz said. Dirt Horses To The Fore In February Stakes With some of Japan's best and brightest dirt horses contending for Saudi Cup honours, the way is clear to crown one of the 16 locals entered in the 1600-metre G1 February Stakes at Tokyo on Sunday. One of the rising stars of the dirt ranks is Group 3 winner Costa Nova (Jpn), who has won all five of his starts over the local dirt, including the 1400-metre G3 Negishi Stakes earlier this month. That was the Lord Kanaloa (Jpn) 5-year-old entire's first attempt in group company, and on Sunday, the waters get even deeper. Assistant trainer Yu Ota said, “Things were a bit tight on the turn for home in the Negishi Stakes, but he showed what he could do by running on well to win comfortably. He came out of the race with no tiredness, and it wasn't long before he was training again as usual.” With the absence of Saudi-Cup bound Wilson Tesoro (Jpn) (Kitasan Black {Jpn}), Meisho Hario (Jpn) is hoping to go one better than his second at the hands of that rival in the Listed JBC Classic at Saga in November. He's in with a chance, as he rolled a pair of threes in both the 2022 G1 Tokyo Daishoten, and in the 2023 edition of this race behind Lemon Pop (Lemon Drop Kid). Mikki Fight (Jpn) (Drefong), too, holds a formline with a Saudi Cup hopeful. In his case, the G3 Leopard Stakes hero was second in the Listed Japan Dirt Classic to Group 1 scorer Forever Young (Jpn) (Real Steel {Jpn}) in October, before he improved to land the Listed Nagoya Daishoten over 2000 metres on Dec. 19. Assistant trainer Hiroyuki Yamazaki said, “He's had his usual routine, returning to the stable a month ago. He was plus 14kg for his last race, so we've just been training him accordingly and checking his weight. Since some time ago, we thought he would become a better horse, and he's developing well.” The 2025 edition of the February Stakes also features the 2024 one-two of Peptide Nile (Jpn) (King Kamehameha {Jpn}) and Gaia Force (Jpn) (Kitasan Black {Jpn}). The former would be only the second 7-year-old to win the race since Roman Prince (Jpn) (Bravest Roman) in 1988. Trainer Hidenori Take, who said, “He maintained his form in the latter half of last year, and even though the Champions Cup was a tough race, he managed to finish fifth. I think he can run well with just the one turn over 1600 metres even if the field is bunched together more.” Emperor Wakea (Jpn) (Lord Kanaloa {Jpn}) is a track-and-trip winner of the G3 Tokyo Chunichi Hai on Nov. 9. His fitness is a slight question mark, as that was the last time the Listed Enif Stakes hero was seen in action. Sunday Funday (Jpn) (Suzuka Causeway {Jpn}) is also coming off a group win after taking the G2 Procyon Stakes at Chukyo on Jan. 26. The post Spangle Vs Rising In Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

RIYADH, KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA — Fourteen horses with Grade I or Group 1 form from America, Argentina, Dubai, Hong Kong, Japan and even Uruguay will take their chance at the winner's share of the $20-million gross purse for the world's richest horse race, Saturday's G1 Saudi Cup at King Abdulaziz Racecourse. And few of them are without some sort of chance. Susumu Fujita's Forever Young (Jpn) (Real Steel {Jpn}) returns to the Saudi capital 12 months on from a last-lunge success in the G3 Saudi Derby and looks to become the first to complete the double. Unlucky to not post a better finish when third in the GI Kentucky Derby, he returned to the U.S. for a crack at the GI Breeders' Cup Classic, but he arguably sat too close to a very quick tempo after drawing the inside and felt the pinch late when third to would-be Saudi Cup starter 'TDN Rising Star' Sierra Leone (Gun Runner) and fellow 'Rising Star' Fierceness (City of Light). He exits a smooth success over the running-on Wilson Tesoro (Jpn) (Kitasan Black {Jpn}) and Ramjet (Jpn) (Majestic Warrior) in the G1 Tokyo Daishoten in late December, a first elite-level success, but not likely the last. Jockey Ryusei Sakai remains predictably bullish and said: “He travelled to Riyadh very well. He has been very relaxed and looked confident since he has arrived. I have no worries about him. He is a very versatile type of horse and can handle any type of track condition.” If there was any consternation in drawing the widest barrier in 14 for Saturday's 1800-metre contest, trainer Yoshito Yahagi was certainly not letting on, saying only that an outside alley was preferred to one on the inside. Ushba Tesoro (Jpn) (Orfevre {Jpn}), the 2023 G1 Dubai World Cup winner who was just caught on the wire of last year's Saudi Cup, is the fourth and perhaps–remarkably–weakest of the Japanese challenge. Hong Kong Horse of the Year Romantic Warrior (Ire) (Acclamation {GB}) makes a much-anticipated first dirt appearance as he looks to join the likes of Mishriff (Ire) (Make Believe {GB}) and the Yahagi-trained Panthalassa (Jpn) (Lord Kanaloa {Jpn}) as seasoned turf horses to make a successful transition. The 10-times Group 1 winner has made a more favourable impression in his local dirt work than over the main track at Meydan, where he has been stabled since late December, but the surface itself isn't necessarily the concern in the eyes of trainer Danny Shum. “He can handle the dirt, I don't know how he'll handle the kickback,” Shum told the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia's Martin Kelly during a Thursday press conference. “Some horses can handle it and others will shorten their stride. This is normal. You never know until they're past the winning post. He looks very fit. Physically, in all his career, this time he's the best in his life.” Given his draw in three, the kickback could have a say in the outcome, but in Romantic Warrior, you have a horse that has taken everything that has been thrown at him in his stride and it would be foolish to discount his chances. Trainer Danny Shum casts an eye across Romantic Warrior | JCSA Rattle N Roll (Connect) will look to become the third US-based winner of the Saudi Cup and the 6-year-old earned his way into the race with a 4 3/4-length thumping of Wait To Excel (GB) (Postponed {Ire}) and the commonly owned Wootton'sun (Fr) (Wootton Bassett {GB}) in the G3 Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup (King's Cup) on Jan. 22. Joel Rosario jets in from the States and trainer Ken McPeek will give the Dominican carte blanche where it comes to tactics. “You don't tell Picasso or Rembrandt how to paint, you give him a brush,” the conditioner quipped Thursday. Trainer Bhupat Seemar had intended to start reigning Dubai World Cup hero Laurel River (Into Mischief) in the Saudi Cup, but a minor injury dictates his absence with an eye on a repeat bid at Meydan six weeks from now. The Zabeel Stables boss is nevertheless represented by Walk of Stars (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}), a participant in the G1 Derby for Godolphin in 2022, who has since found a new home on the dirt. He most recently defeated 2024 G1 Dubai Turf hero Facteur Cheval (Ire) (Ribchester {Ire}) soundly into third in the G1 Al Maktoum Challenge over 1900 metres and could be the one they'll have to catch on Saturday. Of Facteur Cheval, his trainer Jerome Reynier said: “His best performance was in the Dubai Turf last year over 1800m, left-handed. It's the same conditions in The Saudi Cup, except that it is run on the dirt. “Facteur Cheval is a very strong individual, who always delivers, he is just a very special horse. Even if we might struggle to be as competitive as Forever Young or the other true dirt specialists, who are international champions, being placed in this race is already an achievement.” The G1 Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini is not often a test that produces runners in a race such as this, but the 2024 renewal sees its top two finishers–Intense for Me (Arg) (Fortify) and El Kodigo (Arg) (Equal Stripes {Arg})–line up here. The latter, exiting a top-level score at Maronas in Montevideo, Uruguay, is widely regarded as the best dirt horse in South America and both horses are owned by Muhaideb Abdullah A Almuhaideb. Al Musmak (Ire) (Night of Thunder {Ire}) won last year's Listed Sir Henry Cecil Stakes for Roger Varian and was impressive in landing a course-and-distance conditions event Jan. 4. Former US Grade I winner Defunded (Dialed In) completes the field. Returning Champions Contest Undercard In addition to Forever Young, the winners of three of the five other races from 2024 are back in search of repeat Riyadh riches. The Richard Fahey-trained Spirit Dancer (GB) (Frankel {GB}) defeated Japan's Killer Ability (Jpn) (Deep Impact {Jpn}) and Calif (Ger) (Areion {Ger}) in last year's G2 Neom Turf Cup (2100m) and the three renew acquaintances on Saturday. The field also includes G1 Grosser Preis von Berlin hero Al Riffa (Fr) (Wootton Bassett {GB}) and Shin Emperor (Fr) (Siyouni {Fr}), the €2.1-million 2022 Arqana August topper who makes his first start for the Forever Young connections since dead-heating for second in the G1 Japan Cup in November. The Mick Appleby-trained Annaf (Ire) (Muhaarar {GB}) made the 2024 G2 1351 Turf Sprint his own and he, too, is back in Riyadh against challengers from America, Bahrain, Japan and Qatar. Of note are Listed Dubai Duty Free Stakes winner Witness Stand (GB) (Expert Eye {GB}), having his first run for Dr Richard Newland and Jamie Insole; and the locally based Malyan (Ire) (Sioux Nation), never worse than third in 10 starts in Riyadh and winner of five on the trot, including the local qualifier on Jan. 24. An eight-length winner of the Listed Rose Bowl Stakes over two miles last fall, Al Nayyir (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}) carries top weight of 62kg (136 pounds) into Saturday's G2 Red Sea Turf Handicap (3000m) against the likes of Wathnan Racing's Gregory (GB) (Golden Horn {GB}) and Deira Mile (GB) (Camelot {GB}), last seen crossing the line third, but demoted to fourth in the G1 St Leger in September. Remake (Jpn) (Lani) carried Yuga Kawada to an easy win in the G2 Riyadh Dirt Sprint 12 months ago, but arrives in more questionable form this time around, having done no running whatsoever behind Straight No Chaser (Speightster) in the GI Breeders' Cup Sprint in early November. Gabby's Sister (Jpn) (Apollo Kingdom) and Chikappa (Jpn) (Real Steel {Jpn}) also look to give Japan a fourth win in the race, while the outgoing Jimmy Jerkens saddles the sneaky Ancestral Land (GB) (Sioux Nation). Japan also goes for a fourth win in the G3 Saudi Derby, with the undefeated filly Myriad Love (Jpn) (New Year's Day) a real chance to make it four-from-four in her career against G3 UAE 2000 Guineas winner Golden Vekoma (Vekoma) and US raider Cyclone State (McKinzie), impressive in winning the Listed Jerome Stakes last time. The post Worldwide Formlines Converge In Saudi Cup appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

There are 12 horse racing meetings set for Australia on Saturday, February 22. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the best bets and the quaddie numbers for Caulfield, Rosehill, Doomben, Ascot and Alice Springs. Saturday’s Free Horse Racing Tips – February 22, 2025 Caulfield Racing Tips Rosehill Racing Tips Doomben Racing Tips Ascot Racing Tips Alice Springs Racing Tips As always, there are plenty of promotions available for Australian racing fans. Check out all the top online bookmakers to see what daily promotions they have. If you are looking for a new bookmaker for the horse racing taking place on February 22, 2025 check out our guide to the best online racing betting sites. Neds Code GETON 1 Take It To The Neds Level Neds Only orange bookie! Check Out Neds Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? Set a deposit limit today. “GETON is not a bonus code. Neds does not offer bonus codes in Australia and this referral code does not grant access to offers. Full terms. BlondeBet Signup Code GETON 2 Punters Prefer Blondes BlondeBet Blonde Boosts – Elevate your prices! Join BlondeBet Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. WHAT ARE YOU REALLY GAMBLING WITH? full terms. 3 Next Gen Racing Betting Picklebet Top 4 Betting. Extra Place. Every Race. Join Picklebet Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? Full terms. Recommended! 4 It Pays To Play PlayUp Aussie-owned horse racing specialists! Check Out PlayUp Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. Imagine what you could be buying instead. Full terms. Dabble Signup Code AUSRACING 5 Say Hey to the social bet! Dabble You Better Believe It Join Dabble Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? Full terms. Bet365 Signup Code GETON 6 Never Ordinary Bet365 World Favourite! Visit Bet365 Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. GETON is not a bonus code. bet365 does not offer bonus codes in Australia and this referral code does not grant access to offers. What’s gambling really costing you? Full terms. Horse racing tips View the full article

Hasseltoff will make his Alice Springs debut on Saturday. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Racing Photos) Victorian apprentice Hannah Le Blanc is leaving her mark in the NT, so much in fact that the 29-year-old has a full book at Darwin on Friday and will feature in five of the six Alice Springs races on Saturday. It is no surprise after the Glenrowan-based Le Blanc bagged a winning treble in the Red Centre last weekend. Le Blanc will partner Dick Leech’s Hasseltoff, Lethal Encounter and Boom Smash Opera, Kevin Lamprecht’s Daniher and Lisa Whittle’s Another Val on Saturday. The fact that Le Blanc claims 2kg will benefit Hasseltoff, an eight-year-old gelding from South Australia, who debuts at Pioneer Park in open company over 1600m. Originally assigned 63kg, the son of Toorak Toff will now lump 61kg and arrives in town after winning three of his past four starts for Adelaide trainer Phillip Stokes. Success over 1533m at Morphettville and 1500m at Gawler against respectable opposition was followed by a last start win in BM78 grade over 1600m at Morphettville on January 25. It’s not confirmed, but Le Blanc believes Leech will start Hasseltoff in the $110,000 Alice Springs Cup (2000m) on April 6. Back celebrating recent success after serving a six-month suspension last year, Leech won the 2023 Alice Springs Cup with Write Your Name. “Dick never talked to me about Hasseltoff being a Cup horse, but he keeps things pretty quiet,” Le Blanc said. “A last start winner at Morphettville, he won convincingly. “He’s not a leader, so if he can handle the dirt and kick-back he should be hard to beat.” It’s 240km from Glenrowan to Melbourne, but Le Blanc still enjoys travelling to the NT. She has 11 wins this season in the Alice Springs and Provincial jockeys’ premiership – Sonja Logan holds sway with 15 wins. “It’s going really good, I’m getting good opportunities up there, hopefully it will keep going,” she said. “I don’t see it any different to any other jockey that has to drive as far as I travel. “I only have to do it pretty much on weekends, I don’t find it too taxing. “It was good to get that treble, but to be fair Sonja would have probably ridden O’Tycoon, Cavendish and Bad Man had she not been suspended.” Le Blanc, who picks up the occasional ride in Victoria and has celebrated six Darwin wins this season, left for Darwin on Thursday night. She heads to Adelaide straight after the Alice Springs meeting before flying to Melbourne on Sunday for a ride at Ballarat. Horse racing news View the full article

Ka Ying Rising surges to record-breaking success. Photo: HKJC Karis Teetan concedes extending beyond 1200m for the first time is a “small question mark” for outstanding sprinter Ka Ying Rising in the HK$13 million Group 1 Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup (1400m) at Sha Tin on Sunday, but the Mauritian is buoyed by David Hayes’ supreme confidence. Ka Ying Rising has notched 10 wins from 12 starts, with only two narrow defeats, all over 1200m, rocketing from obscurity as an unraced 52-rater to status as one of the world’s premier sprinters after twice breaking Sha Tin’s course record. With regular rider Zac Purton injured, Teetan reunites with the 132-rater for the first time since winning the Group 3 Sha Tin Vase Handicap (1200m) at Sha Tin last June, when the Shamexpress gelding carried only 115lb and demolished a class field, including three of Sunday’s rivals Howdeepisyourlove, Mugen and Invincible Sage. “It’s a great opportunity that has come up, not in nice circumstances but I’m happy the other jockeys are recovering, but I’m thankful for the opportunity. It is my second time to ride Ka Ying Rising in a race and I’m looking forward to it,” Teetan said. To jump from barrier nine, Ka Ying Rising also faces California Spangle, Helios Express, Beauty Eternal, Red Lion and Patch Of Theta as he bid for a 10th straight win and a third Group 1 triumph after last start victory in Group 1 Centenary Sprint Cup (1200m) in 1m 07.20s on January 19. “I think he’s going to be fine. He’s won from worse gates than nine,” Teetan said. “He’s a horse that can handle all the pressure that you can put on him, so 1400 metres is going to be a small question mark, but I think he’s going to be fine. “I’m just looking forward to going out to ride him. He’s got a lot of natural speed and he led last time, so from that draw, he’s just going to use his natural speed and get into a position where he’s comfortable. “He had a nice trial and he pulled up really good. He seems really well.” Hayes believes Ka Ying Rising’s explosive sprint could be potentially even more spectacular at 1400m, provided the four-year-old relaxes in the early stages. Hugh Bowman believes Helios Express, who has finished second three times and a third behind Ka Ying Rising in four starts this campaign, will better suited at 1400m. “I think 1400 is more favourable for him than the 1200, actually. He’s been isolated to the sprint course so far this season but now he gets his chance to go a bit further and I think 1600 metres is within his repertoire further down the track,” Bowman said. “The horse has been flying all season. He’s had to compete with Ka Ying Rising, who’s taking all before him but, that aside, the horse is going really well and I expect the same on the weekend. “Our horse continues to develop, he’s going very well. He’s ticking over really nicely and I think we can expect a forward showing.” Bowman also partners Francis Lui-trained Chancheng Glory in the HK$13 million Group 1 Hong Kong Gold Cup (2000m) after the gelding’s impressive Group 3 Centenary Vase Handicap (1800m) success on January 31. “He’s going to meet some classier horses than last time, but there was a lot of merit in his performance with that win and I just loved the way he went about business,” Bowman said. “He jumped out quickly, put himself in a favourable position and, when I needed him in the straight, he was there. With the set weight conditions of Sunday’s race, he drops a few pounds but he’s meeting some classy opposition at the same weight. His form is very consistent. I think he’s a worthy challenger.” Chancheng Glory will drop from 130lb to 126lb in the Hong Kong Gold Cup, where he meets Voyage Bubble, Galaxy Patch, Ensued, Happy Together, Straight Arron, Five G Patch, La City Blanche, Sword Point and Winning Dragon. Irish jockey Declan McDonogh returns to Hong Kong this weekend and will ride Pearl Of Pang’s, Only U, Sunnyvale and Mr Vigor on the undercard. Sunday’s Sha Tin meeting starts with the Class 4 Citi Wealth Handicap (1400m) at 1pm HKT. Horse racing news View the full article

Expat Kiwi hoop Michael Dee has been booked to ride Evaporate (pictured) and Savaglee in their upcoming targets. Photo: Bruno Cannatelli Kiwi three-year-old Savaglee and the New Zealand-bred Evaporate are giving expat jockey Michael Dee plenty to look forward to over the next few weeks. Dee rode Evaporate to four consecutive victories in the spring including the Group 2 Stutt Stakes (1600m), followed by a third placing in the Group 1 Caulfield Guineas (1600m). The Per Incanto gelding resumed with a third in the Group 2 Autumn Stakes (1400m) on February 8 and will reunite with Dee for a shot at Saturday’s Group 1 Futurity Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield. Safely through that, Evaporate will cross the Tasman to contest the inaugural $3.5 million NZB Kiwi (1500m) at Ellerslie on March 8. In between those two Evaporate assignments, Dee has been booked to partner Savaglee in the Group 1 Australian Guineas (1600m) at Flemington on March 1. New Zealand three-year-olds are a proven source of Guineas success for Dee, who guided Legarto to victory in the race in 2023. “That was a pretty special day with Legarto a couple of years ago,” Dee said. “I’d love to keep that going with another Kiwi three-year-old this year.” Trained by Pam Gerard for owners The Oaks Stud, Savaglee has been the standout three-year-old in New Zealand this season. The Savabeel colt has won five of his seven starts including the Group 1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m), Group 2 Levin Classic (1400m), Group 2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m) and Group 2 Sarten Memorial (1400m). Savaglee’s four-race winning streak was broken at Te Rapa earlier this month, but he lost little in defeat against older horses in the Group 1 BCD Group Sprint (1400m). He was the first New Zealander across the line, finishing a gallant third behind Australian raiders Here To Shock and Bosustow. “I’m really looking forward to riding Savaglee,” Dee said. “The ride came about because I’m pretty good friends with Dean Williams, the son of Rick from The Oaks Stud. I put my name forward and was lucky enough to get this opportunity. “His form through those New Zealand three-year-old races has obviously been exceptional, and I thought he performed very well against the older horses last time out. I don’t think he needs to improve much to be extremely competitive in the Guineas.” Bookmakers rate Savaglee an $8 third favourite for the Australian Guineas behind Angel Capital ($4) and Sepals ($6). Meanwhile, Evaporate is a $13 chance for his clash with older horses in Saturday’s Futurity Stakes, but his main assignment this autumn is the NZB Kiwi. Evaporate will represent the TAB slot in the southern hemisphere’s richest three-year-old race, for which he heads the fixed-odds market as a $4 favourite. “He seems to be coming up extremely well in his new preparation,” said Dee, who has ridden Evaporate in seven of his 11 career starts. “The Futurity will be my first ride on him this time in, but I thought his first-up run was very good without a lot of luck. He’s drawn a bit awkwardly tomorrow (gate eight), but he’s capable of running a very good race if we manage to have a little bit of luck in the running. “He probably doesn’t have to be winning tomorrow, but as long as he shows some of that form that he had in the spring, I think he’s going to be heading over to New Zealand as one of the hardest horses to beat in the Kiwi. “If he runs well tomorrow and the team is happy to push on, I’d definitely be pretty keen to head over and ride him at Ellerslie. It would be exciting to be a part of it.” Dee has ridden 119 winners in New Zealand along with more than 700 in Victoria. His last time riding on this side of the Tasman was in December 2022, when he rode a winning treble at Trentham and finished second in the Group 1 Captain Cook Stakes (1600m) aboard Aegon. Horse racing news View the full article

HRNZ has approved a requested alteration to the Bob Rochford Memorial Seddon District Trotters Series. Originally it was decided that trotters would only qualify for the $30,000 Final at Addington if they had competed in four of the 10 qualifying races. The heats started at Kaikoura last November and have continued on through the top half of the South Island over the summer. There are just two heats left, at Westport and Reefton on March 7 and 9. Now HRNZ has agreed to a change to the qualifying criteria. Now, trotters will be eligible for the final as long as they have started a minimum of four times across the 10 Seddon Shields Districts race meetings from 4 November 4 to March 9, and that they have started in at least one of the designated qualifying races. “This amendment will allow trotters that graduated from lower rating levels throughout the series and competed in fewer than four qualifying races to also be eligible to contest the Final on 21 March,” says HRNZ Handicapper Andrew Morris. “We have done this to ensure a viable final with an optimum field size, it’s the best outcome overall.” The final will have a capacity field of 16. Under the new criteria five trotters have now automatically qualified for the final. They are Masterly, Premium Player, Knowing Me, Regal Sierra and Helloveamoment. Six others – Nellie Doyle, Judy J, Special Effects, Here Comes Jane, What The Bell and Sod’s Law – are also eligible for the final, under the new criteria. To see the latest leaderboard click here View the full article

By Michael Guerin Greg Manson did something he wouldn’t usually do with Franco Marek at Addington on Thursday night but he might be doing it a bit more from now on. The way the star of his five-horse stable won wearing flip flops in the main pace, on Thursday, The Peninsular Beachfront Resort – Mooloolaba Handicap Pace, they could be the answer to the high-class pacer’s problems. Franco Marek held out Vessen after wresting the lead off him mid-race and roaring home his last 800m in 54.6 seconds, the final 400 in 26.3. They don’t go much quicker which may surprise a few trainers as Franco Marek was racing in flip flops for the first time. Flip flops are pads which can be worn as part of a horses shoeing, the padding helps negate concussion often in the knee region but in Franco Marek’s case trainer Manson is more trying to alleviate hoof concerns. “He has always had an small soundness issue which is why he can go rough when he is going slow,” says Manson. “He has raced that way most of his career so I tried the flip flops on him intending to take them off closer to the races, which is what I hear some trainers do. “But I took him to Lavros Lodge last week and he worked great in them so I decided to try them race day even though some people believe they seem to slow a horse down a bit. “They worked tonight so he might keep them on when he goes to the Rangiora Classic next weekend.” That $35,000 race is Sunday week meaning Franco Marek will miss his engagement at Ashburton on Saturday where he was set to be the backmarker in the Ashburton Cup. “I put him in that race because I thought tonight’s race wouldn’t get off the ground.” Franco Marek may return to Addington for a free-for-all on March 14 but Manson is already thinking ahead to this year’s New Zealand Cup, the iconic race that Franco Marek finished eighth in last year. “He got crook on his Cup campaign last season so it was all a bit rushed last year and I just have to be a little bit smarter about it this time around.” He wasn’t the only old boy to overcome a handicap to win a feature on Thursday night with Midnight Dash coming off the 25m handicap to win the main trot even after burning hard in the middle stages. The seven-year-old was recording his first win since December 2022 and while he has raced the trotting elite most of the time since then he has also had to overcome a breathing issue that has had Team Hope work overtime to get him back to his best. The other big eyecatcher on Thursday was Bazooka who rolled home in 26.6 to down Midnight Miki and Betterthancash in what should prove a good form race. View the full article

Star jockey and veteran trainer upbeat about champion galloper’s bid for an 11th Group One triumph in world’s richest race.View the full article

Determined Stables and Kingdom Bloodstock's Determined Kingdom has been named Virginia-bred Horse of the Year and will be recognized—along with other 2024 award winners—during Virginia Derby Day festivities at Colonial Downs March 15. View the full article

With his connections making the decision to fork out a AU$55,000 late entry fee for the Feb. 22 Blue Diamond Stakes (G1), Field of Play heads the market for the AU$2 million group 1 after a perfect barrier draw. View the full article