Wandering Eyes

Currently occupying the 20th spot on the Kentucky Derby points leaderboard, My Boy Jack will aim to prove he belongs, literally and figuratively, when he starts in the Stonestreet Lexington Stakes (G3). View the full article

On Saturday, hundreds of millions of people, from all over the world, will be tuning in for the 2018 Aintree Grand National. Have you picked out a horse yet? Here are the horses you can choose from… Grand National Bet Now Blaklion 11st 10lb, Age: 9 (Foaled April 3rd, 2009), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Kayf Tara – Franciscaine (FR) (Legend of France (USA)), Trainer: N A Twiston-Davies, Owner: S Such & Cg Paletta Fancied by many to go very close and knows the fences very well, finishing runner-up at Aintree on his last outing. The National has been Nigel Twiston-Davies’ target with Blaklion, for quite some time and he’ll be sent-off among the favourites. 50/1 For Sam Twiston-Davies on Blaklion to win the Grand National Anibale Fly (FR) 11st 8lb, Age: 8 (Foaled May 28th, 2010), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Assessor (IRE) – Nouba Fly (Chamberlin (FR)), Trainer: A J Martin, Owner: Mr John P McManus One of the few who genuinely seemed to relish the boggy conditions, in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Winner of the Paddy Power Chase, although a heavy faller in the Irish Gold Cup at the same racecourse. The Last Samuri (IRE) 11st 8lb, Age: 10 (Foaled April 18th, 2008), Sex: Chestnut Gelding, Breeding: Flemensfirth (USA) – Howaboutthis (IRE) (Oscar (IRE)), Trainer: K C Bailey, Owner: Paul & Clare Rooney The sun may be starting to set, on this wily old campaigner, but he’ll be expected to at least make it home. Runner-up in 2016, but only 3 finished behind him in the 2017 renewal. Kim Bailey’s inmate would be a popular winner, but his best days are almost certainly behind him. Valseur Lido (FR) 11st 7lb, Age: 9 (Foaled April 8th, 2009), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Anzillero (GER) – Libido Rock (FR) (Video Rock (FR)), Trainer: H de Bromhead, Owner: Gigginstown House Stud This one has faded from the public’s attention, in the last couple of years, but he’s been plagued with injuries and could cause a surprise if he arrives at Aintree in good shape. Hasn’t won since late-2016 though, when he beat the sadly-departed Silviniaco Conti in the Down Royal Champion Chase. Total Recall (IRE) 11st 5lb, Age: 9 (Foaled March 15th, 2009), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Westerner – Augest Weekend (Dr Massini (IRE)), Trainer: W P Mullins, Owner: Slaneyville Syndicate Romped home in the Munster National and one that Willie Mullins rates very highly. The trainer has only won this race once though, with Hedgehunter in 2005. Total Recall looked to be gaining ground, when falling 3 out in the Gold Cup. Went into that encounter unbeaten in 3 starts. Alpha Des Obeaux (FR) 11st 4lb, Age: 8 (Foaled March 2nd, 2010), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Saddler Maker (IRE) – Omega Des Obeaux (Saint Preuil (FR)), Trainer: M F Morris, Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Grand National Bet Now Trainer won in 2016, with Rule The World. Alpha Des Obeaux did not race at Cheltenham and though 4th in the 2016 RSA Chase, that renewal featured just 6 finishers. Last of 4 in the Grade 2 Many Clouds Chase, at Aintree in December, but a genuine stayer and in with a shout. Perfect Candidate (IRE) 11st 3lb, Age: 11 (Foaled May 12th, 2007), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Winged Love (IRE) – Dansana (IRE) (Insan (USA)), Trainer: F O’Brien, Owner: Isl Recruitment Was travelling pretty well, in the National last year, before a mistake at the 26th fence knocked him out of stride (was eventually pulled-up 4 from home). He’s not given connections a great deal to feel positive about since then and it’s not easy to make a case for his chances of getting into the shake-up. Shantou Flyer (IRE) 11st 2lb, Age: 8 (Foaled March 22nd, 2010), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Shantou (USA) – Carrigmorna Flyer (Bob Back (USA)), Trainer: Richard Hobson, Owner: Mr Carl Hinchy He’s frustrated his supporters, of late, finishing runner-up in his last 4 outings. Lost out in the Ultima to Coo Star Sivola and by just a neck. Last win came on New Year’s Day 2017, when he beat Village Vic in a Grade 3 handicap chase at Cheltenham. Should appeal to each-way bettors. Tenor Nivernais (FR) 11st 1lb, Age: (Foaled April 7th, 2007), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Shaanmer (IRE) – Hosanna Ii (FR) (Marasali), Trainer: Miss V Williams, Owner: Boultbee Brooks Ltd There’s little that appeals about Venetia Williams’ charge, based on his performance last year and he’s raced just twice since then. After pulling-up at Doncaster, Tenor Nivernais finished last of 6 in the Swinley Chase and 23 lengths adrift of 5th place. You probably won’t be paying much attention to this horse, unless you’ve got lumbered with him in the office sweepstake. Carlingford Lough (IRE) 11st 1lb, Age: 12 (Foaled May 30th, 2006), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: King’s Theatre (IRE) – Baden (IRE) (Furry Glen), Trainer: J E Kiely, Owner: Mr John P McManus One that plenty of National Hunt fans have a soft spot for and winner of the 2016 Punchestown Gold Cup. Very much a veteran now though and no wins have come since then. Failed to make it home in 2 of his last 3 encounters and surely a horse that will be backed with hearts rather than heads. Tiger Roll (IRE) 10st 13lb, Age: 8 (Foaled March 14th, 2010), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Authorized (IRE) – Swiss Roll (IRE) (Entrepreneur), Trainer: G Elliott, Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Despite him having no experience of racing at Aintree, he’s certainly one to take a look at – particularly given the current form of Gordon Elliott’s yard. Tiger Roll was a convincing winner of the Glenfarclas Chase at Cheltenham and also landed the National Hunt Challenge Cup, in 2017. At his best when racing in England and should be a contender. Regal Encore (IRE) 10st 13lb, Age: 10 (Foaled May 12th, 2008), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: King’s Theatre (IRE) – Go On Eileen (IRE) (Bob Back (USA)), Trainer: A J Honeyball, Owner: Mr John P McManus An 8th place finish in 2017 was probably better than most expected and few predicted he would finish in the money at Newbury, in the Ladbrokes Trophy. Regal Encore was pulled-up in the Silver Cup Handicap Chase, but won the Swinley Chase last time out and he’s been generally underrated since 2016 – a year when nothing went right for this King’s Theatre-sired gelding. Could cause a surprise. Vieux Lion Rouge (FR) 10st 13lb, Age: 9 (Foaled March 2nd, 2009), Sex: Chestnut Gelding, Breeding: Sabiango (GER) – Indecise (FR) (Cyborg (FR)), Trainer: D Pipe, Owner: Prof Caroline Tisdall & Mr John Gent Grand National Bet Now It’s about time that David Pipe’s fortunes took a turn for the better and his main hope in the National might find a few friends in the market. However, the last win came in the Grand National Trial Handicap Chase at Haydock where he beat the more harshly treated Blaklion by over 3 lengths – but that was over a year ago and recent results haven’t been especially encouraging. Chase The Spud 10st 12lb, Age: 10 (Foaled February 7th, 2008), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Alflora (IRE) – Trial Trip (Le Moss), Trainer: F O’Brien, Owner: Mrs C Banks Fergal O’Brien’s inmate finished the previous campaign with a flourish, winning the Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter before following up in a valuable handicap at Haydock. This season has been one to forget so far, however. Chase The Spud didn’t make his reappearance until January and has been pulled-up in both outings. Getting placed would be a major achievement, given what we have seen so far this term. Warriors Tale 10st 12lb, Age: 9 (Foaled March 19th, 2009), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Midnight Legend – Samandara (FR) (Kris), Trainer: P F Nicholls, Owner: Mr Trevor Hemmings The 9-year-old has competed only once at Aintree and unseated Sean Bowen, when making headway in a strong handicap encounter (November). Lost out to Gold Present, by just a neck, in the Sir Peter O’Sullevan Memorial Handicap Chase and was then also runner-up in a Listed handicap chase at Doncaster in January. He finished almost a length ahead of L’Ami Serge (7lb worse off), in that race, which also included Flying Angel and Wakanda. Last 2 runs may encourage each-way bettors. Seeyouatmidnight 10st 12lb, Age: 10 (Foaled March 22nd, 2008), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Midnight Legend – Morsky Baloo (Morpeth), Trainer: A M Thomson, Owner: Mrs D Thompson Sandy Thompson’s stoic campaigner loves a battle and punters have started nibbling, in the past few days. Has only had a single outing in the last 12 months though (the Doom Bar Handicap Chase, at Newbury) and finished 20 lengths behind the winner. Watch for further market moves. Gas Line Boy (IRE) 10st 11lb, Age: 12 (Foaled May 12th, 2006), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Blueprint (IRE) – Jervia (Affirmed (USA)), Trainer: Ian Williams, Owner: The Three Graces Did very well to win the Grand Sefton Handicap Chase, as was hampered badly at the 15th fence. Gas Line Boy stunk out the place at Sandown, last time out though, where his jumping was very poor. Nevertheless, he stayed-on fairly well and secured 3rd place so he could be a factor if Ian Williams has got him right. The Dutchman (IRE) 10st 11lb, Age: 8 (Foaled March 12th, 2010), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: King’s Theatre (IRE) – Shivermetimber (IRE) (Arctic Lord), Trainer: C L Tizzard, Owner: Sprayclad Uk Grand National Bet Now Hasn’t raced at Aintree, since pulling-up in the 2016 Mersey Novices’ Hurdle. Won the Peter Marsh Handicap Chase, beating the likes of Yala Enki and Hainan. Returned to Haydock for the Grand National Trial Handicap Chase, in February, but was very disappointing and well-beaten when Danny Cook stood up on him. Outside chance, if at his best. Pleasant Company (IRE) 10st 11lb, Age: 10 (Foaled April 15th, 2008), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Presenting – Katie Flame (Alderbrook), Trainer: W P Mullins, Owner: Mr Malcolm C Denmark It’s been a poor season for this Presenting-sired gelding, who finished 9th in the National last year. Never a factor, when pulled-up at Leopardstown in the Thyestes Handicap Chase. Ucello Conti (FR) 10st 10lb, Age: 10 (Foaled June 4th, 2008), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Martaline – Gazelle Lulu (FR) (Altayan (IRE)), Trainer: G Elliott, Owner: Mr Simon Munir/mr Isaac Souede Hasn’t won a race since 2014 and made it home in only 1 of his last 3 contests. That was in the Paddy Power Chase and Gordon Elliott’s charge finished runner-up, so the 10-year-old cannot be ruled out and who would bet against Gordon Elliott at the moment? Saint Are (FR) 10st 10lb, Age: 12 (Foaled April 5th, 2006), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Network (GER) – Fortanea (FR) (Video Rock (FR)), Trainer: T R George, Owner: Mr D W Fox 3rd last year and will be 2lb better-off, this time around. 12-year-olds have won this race, although the last was Amberleigh House back in 2004. Pulled-up in both 2018 outings, so not easy to back even at the price. Raz De Maree (FR) 10st 9lb, Age: 13 (Foaled March 13th, 2005), Sex: Chestnut Gelding, Breeding: Shaanmer (IRE) – Diyala III (FR) (Quart de Vin (FR)), Trainer: G P Cromwell, Owner: James J Swan Gavin Cromwell’s horse is now a 13-year-old, but that didn’t prevent him from winning the Welsh Grand National by 6 lengths in January. He would be the clear eldest winner since Sergeant Murphy in 1923 though, were he to repeat the feat at Aintree, so it’s probably wise to look elsewhere. I Just Know (IRE) 10st 8lb, Age: 8 (Foaled April 16th, 2010), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Robin Des Pres (FR) – Desperado Queen (IRE) (Un Desperado (FR)), Trainer: Mrs S J Smith, Owner: M B Scholey & The Late R H Scholey Winner of the North Yorkshire Grand National and ran well-enough, when 2nd at Uttoxeter, despite being sent off as the jolly. Sue Smith won the National with Auroras Encore in 2013 and this horse should run a good race. Virgilio (FR) 10st 8lb, Age: 9 (Foaled May 24th, 2009), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Denham Red (FR) – (Cyborg (FR)), Trainer: D Skelton, Owner: C J Edwards, D Futter, A H Rushworth Won the Neil Sutherland Memorial Handicap Chase here, last May, but looked out of sorts in a similar race at Doncaster in December. Hard to recommend. Baie Des Iles (FR) 10st 8lb, Age: 7 (Foaled March 24th, 2011), Sex: Grey Mare, Breeding: Barastraight – Malownia (Smadoun (FR)), Trainer: Ross O’Sullivan, Owner: Mrs Z Wentworth Grand National Bet Now Winner of the Grand National Trial Handicap Chase, at Punchestown in February of 2017. Not shown a great deal of form, since then, although was 3rd in the same Punchestown trial this year. Likes heavy ground. Has been getting market-support, in the last few days. Maggio (FR) 10st 8lb, Age: 13 (Foaled March 29th, 2005), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Trempolino (USA) – La Musardiere (FR) (Cadoudal (FR)), Trainer: P Griffin, Owner: D G Pryde/james Beaumont Caused quite a shock when winning a Listed handicap chase here, a couple of years ago, but he’s not shown any consistency since then and doesn’t look capable of having an impact in this gruelling encounter as a 13-year-old. Pendra (IRE) 10st 8lb, Age: 10 (Foaled April 16th, 2008), Sex: Chestnut Gelding, Breeding: Old Vic – Mariah Rollins (IRE) (Over The River (FR)), Trainer: C E Longsdon, Owner: Mr John P McManus Pendra finished a close runner-up to Domesday Book, in the 2017 Kim Muir Challenge Cup Amateur Riders’ Handicap Chase, but was a real disappointment in this season’s renewal. Did at least make it home, in the 2016 National, but was well off the pace. Buywise (IRE) 10st 8lb, Age: 11 (Foaled May 19th, 2007), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Tikkanen (USA) – Greenogue Princess (IRE) (Rainbows For Life (CAN)), Trainer: Evan Williams, Owner: Mr T Hywel Jones Victor in the Veterans’ Handicap Chase, at Sandown in January. Missed Aintree last year. A reliable jumper, with an outside chance. Childrens List (IRE) 10st 8lb, Age: 8 (Foaled June 7th, 2010), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Presenting – Snipe Hunt (IRE) (Stalker), Trainer: W P Mullins, Owner: Mrs S Ricci Has raced just twice, since scoring at Punchestown in December of 2016. Was pulled-up by Danny Mullins at the same track, last time out. There’s not a lot to like about this one. Houblon Des Obeaux (FR) 10st 7lb, Age: 11 (Foaled March 5th, 2007), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Panoramic – Harkosa (FR) (Nikos), Trainer: Miss V Williams, Owner: Exors Of The Late Mrs J Blackwell Charlie Deutsch held him up at the rear of the field, last year, but was unable to get a response from him at the business end of the race. Won the Veterans’ Handicap Chase, at Sandown in November. Has had 5 runs since then and hasn’t pulled up too many trees. Does look well-handicapped, however. Lord Windermere (IRE) 10st 7lb, Age: 12 (Foaled March 11th, 2006), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Oscar (IRE) – Satellite Dancer (IRE) (Satco (FR)), Trainer: J H Culloty, Owner: Dr R Lambe 8th last year but time is no longer on his side. The 2014 Cheltenham Gold Cup Champion has failed to win since then and he was pulled-up in the Becher Handicap Chase here, in December. Captain Redbeard (IRE) 10st 7lb, Age: 9 (Foaled April 30th, 2009), Sex: Chestnut Gelding, Breeding: Bach (IRE) – Diesel Dancer (IRE) (Toulon), Trainer: W Coltherd, Owner: Mr S Coltherd In cracking form and easily won the Tommy Whittle Handicap Chase, at Haydock. Gave a decent account of himself, in the Peter Marsh Handicap Chase, before picking up another victory at Ayr under Sam Coltherd. Genuine place chance, at least. Bless The Wings (IRE) 10st 6lb, Age: 13 (Foaled March 24th, 2005), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Winged Love (IRE) – Silva Venture (IRE) (Mandalus), Trainer: G Elliott, Owner: Adrian Butler/P O’Connor Finished just once in his 5 most-recent outings, but that was in December’s Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Chase at Cheltenham where he beat the likes of Cantlow, Josies Orders and Kingswell Theatre. You would expect the Aintree fences to find him out, at his age though. Milansbar (IRE) 10st 6lb, Age: 11 (Foaled March 21st, 2007), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Milan – Ardenbar (Ardross), Trainer: N B King, Owner: Mr Robert Bothway Neil King has given the ride to the brilliant Bryony Frost. Could she become the first female jockey to win the Grand National, on Saturday? The horse has been running well and won the Classic Handicap Chase at Warwick, crushing Cogry by 11 lengths. 2nd in the Midlands Grand National, but has never raced at Aintree before. Double Ross (IRE) 10st 6lb, Age: 12 (Foaled April 1st, 2006), Sex: Chestnut Gelding, Breeding: Double Eclipse (IRE) – Kinross (IRE) (Nearly A Hand (IRE)), Trainer: N A Twiston-Davies, Owner: Options O Syndicate Grand National Bet Now Was unfortunate in 2016 when going well, before Ryan Hatch lost his irons and was unable to recover (pulled-up). Finished 4th in the Kim Muir, at Cheltenham this year, but was well-beaten and few give Nigel Twiston-Davies’ charge much of a chance here. Final Nudge (IRE) 10st 6lb, Age: 9 (Foaled May 4th, 2009), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Kayf Tara – Another Shot (IRE) (MasterWillie), Trainer: David Dennis, Owner: Corbett Stud & Andrew George Finally makes a return to Aintree, since pulling-up in the 2015 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle. Never on terms in the Kim Muir Challenge Cup Amateur Riders’ Handicap Chase at Cheltenham, but put in a good performance when 3rd in the Welsh National. Outside chance. Thunder And Roses (IRE) 10st 5lb, Age: 10 (Foaled March 31st, 2008), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Presenting – Glen Empress (IRE) (Lancastrian), Trainer: M F Morris, Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Landed the Irish Grand National Chase back in 2015, but has not troubled the winners enclosure since then and fell in his last 2 races. Others are preferred. Delusionofgrandeur (IRE) 10st 5lb, Age: 8 (Foaled April 9th, 2010), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Mahler – Olivia Rose (IRE) (Mujadil (USA)), Trainer: Mrs S J Smith, Owner: McGoldrick Racing 3 One of the younger runners and making his debut at Aintree. Won a modest handicap chase at Catterick, in November, but hasn’t shown a great deal since then in terms of form. Road To Riches (IRE) 10st 5lb, Age: 11 (Foaled June 12th, 2007), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Gamut (IRE) – Bellora (IRE) (Over The River (FR)), Trainer: N Meade, Owner: Gigginstown House Stud It’s the first time we will see him competing in England, since he finished 3rd in the 2016 Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham. An undoubted talent, but connections must be disappointed with how his career has panned-out and the 11-year-old has not won since 2015. Looked a shadow of his former self, when pulling-up in the Grand National Trial Handicap Chase at Punchestown. Vintage Clouds (IRE) 10st 4lb, Age: 8 (Foaled April 25th, 2010), Sex: Grey Gelding, Breeding: Cloudings (IRE) – Rare Vintage (IRE) (Germany (USA)), Trainer: Mrs S J Smith, Owner: Mr Trevor Hemmings The grey won a modest contest here, last October, but many will draw a line through the form of that race as so many fences were omitted. However, Vintage Clouds finished 3rd in the Ultima Handicap Chase and just 6 lengths behind Coo Star Sivola (similarly weighted). One to consider. Walk In The Mill (FR) 10st 4lb, Age: 8 (Foaled May 11th, 2010), Sex: Bay Gelding, Breeding: Walk In The Park (IRE) – (Lost World (IRE)), Trainer: R Walford, Owner: Baroness Harding Grand National Bet Now Comfortably saw-off the challenge of Brandon Hill, at Ascot in November and was far from disgraced when 3rd in the Silver Cup Handicap Chase at the same venue. Didn’t look like he fancied it much, in the Peter Marsh Handicap Chase though an this will be his first outing since pulling-up in that encounter. Betting With RaceBets You can bet on every race at the Aintree Grand National Festival, when you create a RaceBets account. Sign-up now and claim your welcome bonus! The post 2018 Aintree Grand National Horse By Horse Guide appeared first on RaceBets Blog EN. View the full article

Joao Moreira remains a hero in Hong Kong but his reputation in Australia has taken a battering over the past two years and he heads to Randwick for the second day of The Championships on Saturday determined to make amends. Moreira is in Australia for the first time since his Melbourne Cup day fall five months ago and returns to Randwick for the first time since a zero-for-seven day that included a forgettable ride on Comin’ Thru. The Brazilian has not won in Australia for more than a year... View the full article

Tommy Berry will team with Japanese raiders Danburite and Fine Needle in upcoming spring features as the Australian looks to click as a club rider ahead of next month’s licensing decisions for 2018-19. Berry started the season as John Moore’s stable rider but the partnership ended late last month after the pair had just seven wins together. Since then it has been a new start in many ways, with Berry and wife Sharnee welcoming a third child, son Levi into their family,... View the full article

Ricardo Santana Jr. grabbed the 1,000th victory of his career (since based on the United States mainland) when he guided Westfest to a clear victory in the sixth race April 12 at Oaklawn Park. View the full article

Red-hot Rodd on top after taking last three races View the full article

Swift double for Lim's and Mark's Stable View the full article

Wecando aimed at Singapore Guineas View the full article

Horses' body weights April 13 View the full article

Track conditions and course scratchings April 13 View the full article

No early scratchings April 13 View the full article

Ricardo Santana Jr. grabbed the 1,000th victory of his career (since based on the United States mainland), when he guided Westfest to a clear victory in the sixth race April 12 at Oaklawn Park. View the full article

After racing concluded April 7, rising top-10 sire Curlin has his best chance of being represented by a Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve (G1) winner with four potential contenders this year, a new feat for the son of Smart Strike. View the full article

Nine of the 11 runners in Saturday’s GI Coolmore Jenny Wiley S. at Keeneland made their prior starts in Florida, with the other two having spent the winter there. Dona Bruja (Arg) (Storm Embrujado {Arg}) is one of the main contenders off the strength of her four-length success in Tampa’s GIII Endeavour S. Feb. 10. The Argentinian Group 1 winner took her first two starts in graded company here last summer, and was a close second in the GI Beverly D. S. in August. She found the one mile of the local GI First Lady S. a bit too sharp when fourth Oct. 7, but kicked off her season auspiciously when clearly best over GI Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup heroine La Coronel (Colonel John). “Running in a Grade I at Keeneland-it can’t get better than that and you can’t be more excited than that,” Dona Bruja’s trainer Nacho Correas said. “We have our horse the way we want, and that’s all we can do.” La Coronel ran back in the GII Hillsborough S. Mar. 10, and hooked four of these rivals. She checked in third behind Fourstar Crook (Freud) and Proctor’s Ledge (Ghostzapper), and ahead of Grade I-winning stablemate Off Limits (Ire) (Mastercraftsman {Ire}) and MGSW Lovely Bernadette (Wilburn). Fourstar Crook and Off Limits are conditioned by Eclipse-winning trainer Chad Brown, as is French Group 3 winner/Group 1-placed Sistercharlie (Ire) (Myboycharlie {Ire}), off since a close second behind yet another Brown pupil in New Money Honey (Medaglia d’Oro) in the GI Belmont Oaks Invitational. “We have different goals for the three of them,” said Brown of having multiple entrants in the same race, as he frequently does. “The race is available. The timing’s good. There’s not a lot of options this time of year for horses of this caliber. We’ll get them started here and see what happens.” Cambodia (War Front) took a pair of Grade II races at Del Mar last summer, and was a strong third in the GI Breeders’ Cup F/M Turf before finding trouble and checking in fourth in the GI Matriarch S. Nov. 26. View the full article

A portion of the earnings from Heart to Heart's run in the $300,000 Maker's 46 Mile (G1T) at Keeneland April 13 has been pledged to Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA) by owners Terry and Toby Hamilton. View the full article

Currently occupying the 20th and final spot on the Kentucky Derby points leaderboard, My Boy Jack will aim to prove he belongs, literally and figuratively, when he starts in the Stonestreet Lexington Stakes (G3). View the full article

Hronis Racing's Accelerate and Suzanne and William Warren Jr.'s City of Light both won grade 1 races March 10 at Santa Anita Park, but at different distances, and will meet in the middle Saturday for the 1 1/8-mile Oaklawn Handicap. View the full article

Deep closer My Boy Jack (Creative Cause), currently right on the bubble to make it into the GI Kentucky Derby starting gate, will look to secure his spot in the “Run for the Roses” in Saturday’s GIII Stonestreet Lexington S., which offers a total of 34 points for the Derby. A stakes winner on the grass out in California in October, My Boy Jack was seventh beaten three lengths in the GI Breeders’ Cup Turf. He resurfaced on the dirt to be third in the GIII Sham S. behind highly regarded McKinzie (Street Sense) Jan. 6, and shipped to Oaklawn to mow them all down in a fast-paced, muddy-track renewal of the GIII Southwest S. Feb. 19. The Keith Desormeaux trainee made a head-turning move in the GII Louisiana Derby Mar. 24, only to flatten out late and settle for third, beaten three parts of a length. “If he had run second in the Louisiana Derby, we would not be worrying about this,” said Julie Clark, assistant to Keith Desormeaux. “He made that big move wide on the turn and [jockey] Kent [Desormeaux] couldn’t just stop his momentum.” Another who invades from the west coast is Greyvitos (Malibu Moon). The grey pulled off an almost 20-1 shocker to break his maiden over the talented but ill-fated Mourinho (Super Saver) in Del Mar’s GIII Bob Hope S. Nov. 11, and handled another furlong with aplomb when he took the frequently productive Springboard Mile S. at Remington Park Dec. 17. Telekinesis (Ghostzapper) was impressive enough to be named a ‘TDN Rising Star‘ after his Fair Grounds sprint unveiling Feb. 9, but he was a disappointing third at odds-on facing older foes on the stretch-out Mar. 9. View the full article

G K Chesterton (Ire) (Poet’s Voice {GB}), a three-time winner from 12 runs for Godolphin and trainer Charlie Appleby, fetched a final bid of AED800,000 (£153,119/€176,726/US$217,835) to top Tuesday’s Emirates Racing Authority’s Racing in Dubai Sale in the saddling enclosure at Meydan Racecourse. The 5-year-old gelding, one of 12 horses signed for by trainer Doug Watson at the event, is a son of French Group 3 winner Neptune’s Bride (Bering {GB}), the dam of UAE SP Submariner (Singspiel {Ire}) as well as Sea Chariot (Seeking the Gold), a stakes-placed millionaire in Japan. A handicap winner last season at Newmarket in May and during the Derby meeting at Epsom, G K Chesterton was unplaced in a pair of starts at this year’s Dubai World Cup Carnival. With four horses withdrawn from the sale, a total of 39 horses were reported as sold for AED7,180,000. View the full article

A strong California contingent wasn’t done much of a favor at Monday’s draw for the GII Oaklawn H., as Accelerate (Lookin At Lucky) pulled post 10 and City of Light (Quality Road) drew the far-outside 11 hole. The former is two-for-two at the distance, having taken the GII San Pasqual S. Feb. 3 before cruising to a 5 1/2-length victory in the 10-panel GI Santa Anita H. Mar. 10. Lightly raced City of Light, meanwhile, is being asked to cover a route of ground for the first time. The $710,000 KEESEP yearling finished off his sophomore season with a front-running victory in the prestigious GI Malibu S., and he returned in fine form to take the GI Triple Bend S. Mar. 10, also going seven furlongs at Santa Anita. His sire Quality Road has certainly proven an effective sire of two-turn runners. Hedge Fund (Super Saver) defeated a pair of these foes by daylight in the Essex H. Mar. 17, while Hawaakom (Jazil) has been off since a romping upset of the GIII Razorback H. Feb. 19. View the full article

Ever wonder what it’s like to professionally photograph horse racing on a daily basis? Eclipse Sportswire gave amateur photographers the chance to find out when it hosted it’s inaugural Photography Workshop Mar. 27-30 at Santa Anita Park. Organized and taught by founder and chief photographer of Eclipse Sportwire Scott Serio and assistant managing editor Alex Evers, students got the chance to get first-hand experience honing their skills while snapping shots during morning workouts, getting live editing instruction from industry professionals and preparing remotes and capturing the day’s live races. “We have a large social media presence with Eclipse Sportswire and get a lot of requests about how we do things, how we made certain pictures and people who want to break into the business and do it the right way,” said Serio, who won the 2015 Eclipse Award for photography. “We thought this would be a great way to pull together all those elements and teach photographers of varying skill levels how to create story-telling images in horse racing. We want to cultivate the next generation.” A field of eight assembled the last weekend in March. One of the group was Carolyn Simancik, a veterinary technician from Oklahoma, who works with Quarter Horses. “I’ve photographed as a hobby for the last few years and have been fortunate to shoot for some people in the quarter horse industry, but have only been watching Thoroughbreds for a few years.” said Simancik. “I really wanted to learn how you may all look at the exact same horse, but you and I are able to get a different shot and to tell a different story. I think my favorite part of the workshop was just listening to their [Serio and Evers] stories. They make you think outside the box.” By the end of the workshop, Simancik’s portfolio was named the Most Improved, which earns her an opportunity to work alongside Eclipse Sportwire as an assistant at the Breeders’ Cup at Churchill Downs in November. Another participant was Delaney Witbrod. A native of Atlanta, Georgia, she is currently a student of photography at Gwuinnett Technical College and first got her shot to photograph racehorses while enrolled at the University of Kentucky. “It was pretty cool to see how Scott and Alex’s minds function and how professionals like them work on and off the track,” said Witbrod. “It wasn’t really until the last day where everything pieced together and made sense. It really was one of the coolest experiences of my life.” At the end of the week, her portfolio was honored as the best of the weekend and with that, she is going to be assisting Eclipse Sportwire in a few weeks at the May 5th Kentucky Derby. “I dreamed of the Derby every since I was a little kid. Being able to shoot such an amazing event will be one of the coolest experiences,” Witbrod said. With the success of this first workshop, Eclipse Sportswire is excited to get the ball rolling on the next one. “We would love to do more of these workshops and there is a demand for something like this,” said Serio. “I think with this being our first one, I feel there was a little bit of hesitancy because people really didn’t know what to expect and the timing of Easter weekend didn’t help. If we were to come east for our next one, I know we have at least 15-20 people who would attend something like this.” View the full article

Exclamation Point (Concord Point) makes it three-for-three to start his career Thursday at Keeneland. The chestnut went gate-to-wire sprinting in his debut at Oaklawn Park Feb. 3 before passing his two turns test last time out there Mar. 3. The 6-5 favorite settled into a good position third, tucked inside along the rail through a :23.23 opening quarter. He tried to make his move while three wide on the far turn before ducking back to an opening on the rail at the furlong marker to take the lead in the final stages to remain perfect. The homebred is a half to champion juvenile Classic Empire (Pioneerof the Nile). Lifetime Record: 3-3-0-0. O-Steve & Brandi Nicholson & Flurry Racing Stables. B-Steve & Brandi Nicholson (KY). T-Brad Cox. View the full article

While Gun Runner (Candy Ride {Arg}) and Winx (Aus) (Street Cry {Ire}) remain entrenched at the top of the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings on a rating of 129, the winners of four of the eight races contested on Dubai World Cup night Mar. 31 have found their way onto the list. Thunder Snow (Ire) (Helmet {Aus}) capped a big evening for Godolphin with a front-running defeat of 124-rated West Coast (Flatter) in the G1 Dubai World Cup and was given a rating of 123, equal to G1 Dubai Turf scorer Benbatl (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}) and one point superior to G1 Dubai Sheema Classic hero Hawkbill (Kitten’s Joy) and Mendelssohn (Scat Daddy). The latter, headed towards the GI Kentucky Derby May 5, is the highest-rated sophomore on the list, two points clear of ‘TDN Rising Star’ Justify (Scat Daddy), who shot up the rankings with his defeat of Bolt d’Oro (Medaglia d’Oro) in the GI Santa Anita Derby Apr. 7. Also sneaking onto the list as the world’s top-rated turf sprinter is Trapeze Artist (Aus) (Snitzel {Aus}), who led home a 1-2 finish for his enormously successful sire with a two-length defeat of The Everest winner Redzel (Aus) in the G1 T J Smith S. at Royal Randwick Apr. 7. Trapeze Artist was given a rating of 123. Sharing that rating was Happy Clapper (Aus) (Teofilo {Ire}), who validated his runner-up effort to Winx in the G1 George Ryder S. with a smooth tally in the G1 Doncaster H. at The Championships. ‘TDN Rising Star’ Army Mule (Friesan Fire) is the newest American horse to join the rankings, as he was awarded a 121 for his brilliant victory in the GI Carter H. at Aqueduct. View the full article

Given that he currently occupies the 20th and final spot on the Kentucky Derby points leaderboard, My Boy Jack will aim to prove he belongs, literally and figuratively, when he starts in the Stonestreet Lexington Stakes (G3). View the full article

Trainer Todd Pletcher already holds a very strong hand heading into the GI Kentucky Derby, but he’s got one more ace up his sleeve in the form of GI Arkansas Derby favorite Magnum Moon (Malibu Moon). The ‘TDN Rising Star‘ will look to take his fourth trip to the winner’s circle Saturday in as many tries while adding to Pletcher’s already record four wins in Oaklawn’s signature event. The Robert and Lawana Low colorbearer bested a field that included Machismo (More Than Ready) sprinting first out at Gulfstream Jan. 13, and followed up with an easy two-turn Tampa optional claiming score Feb. 15. He was extremely impressive showing good stalking speed and a strong late kick in the GII Rebel S. here Mar. 17, reporting home 3 1/2 lengths to the good of 11-10 Solomini (Curlin). Solomini is as due for a break-out win as just about any horse in training. Second to Bolt d’Oro (Medaglia d’Oro) in the GI FrontRunner S. in September and ahead of that one but behind Good Magic (Curlin) when runner-up in the GI Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, the Bob Baffert pupil crossed the wire in front of stablemate McKinzie (Street Sense) in the GI Los Alamitos Futurity Dec. 9, only to be placed third behind next-out GIII Lecomte S. winner Instilled Regard (Arch) in what was a controversial DQ. He was simply outrun on the day by Magnum Moon last time, and will need to pick it up for connections who own two Arkansas Derby trophies themselves with Triple Crown winner American Pharoah (Pioneerof the Nile) and the brilliant Bodemeister (Empire Maker). Rebel third Combatant (Scat Daddy) is one of three signed on for the meet’s leading trainer Steve Asmussen and, like Solomini, has been knocking on the door in stakes company for quite some time. “I think he’s been a little disadvantaged, just with the pace scenarios and his placement in the starting gate,” David Fiske racing manager for co-owner Winchell Thoroughbreds, said. “I think the circumstances have kind of conspired against him, going all the way back to [his second in the Springboard Mile at] Remington last fall.” Fiske added, “Hopefully, he can catch a break. I was telling somebody [that] if he were to run third and pick up $100,000, he would have almost half-a-million dollars next to his name and still be eligible for non-winners of two.” The Winchells and Asmussen will also be represented by two-for-two Tenfold (Curlin), who followed up a very impressive 5 3/4-length debut romp with a hard-fought optional claiming tally Mar. 18. ‘Rising Star‘ Quip (Distorted Humor) bypassed the GII Blue Grass S. last week after his owners’ likely Derby favorite Justify (Scat Daddy) stayed at home for a romp in the GI Santa Anita Derby rather than shipping here. He made his seasonal debut a winning one in the GII Tampa Bay Derby Mar. 10, and was flattered when runner-up Flameaway (Scat Daddy) returned with a similar effort in the Blue Grass and fourth-place Vino Rosso (Curlin) grabbed the GII Wood Memorial S. View the full article