Wandering Eyes

A five-win day at Aqueduct Racetrack Nov. 23 that included a stakes victory earned Manny Franco honors as the Nov. 18-24 Jockey of the Week.View the full article

Grade 1 winner Volatile was represented by his first stakes winner Nov. 26 when the 2-year-old filly Reliable Source romped in the $100,000 Zia Park Princess Stakes.View the full article

A perfect three-for-three at Del Mar, Formidable Man will go up against a field that includes New York invaders Donegal Momentum and Carson's Run.View the full article

Dear Horse Racing Enthusiasts and Industry Stakeholders, As I reflect on my first year as a newcomer in the horse racing industry, I wish to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have welcomed me into this sport. Stepping into something unfamiliar can be daunting, especially with the significant investment I have made. The accomplishments I have achieved this year are a direct result of the support and encouragement I have received from many individuals who have helped me establish my operations. I believe it is also important to share my perspective on some of the positive developments occurring within our industry. First and foremost, I extend warm wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving. This year, I am especially thankful for my team at @ResoluteRacingKY. It is astonishing to think that just a year ago, we had no farm and only a handful of horses. Our farm staff has risen to the challenge of supporting the rapid growth of our operations, which now includes over 200 Thoroughbreds in breeding, training, and active racing. Their dedication has been remarkable, and I am particularly grateful for the contributions of Noel Murphy and Gavin O'Connor. Alongside our Thoroughbred activities, Chelsey manages a Saddlebred breeding operation, an active rescue program, and my personal favorite, the trail horses that I taught myself to ride. I take great pride in my daughter Sarah, who shares our passion for animals. Her leadership in our marketing and branding initiatives, as well as her commitment to our rescue efforts for retired racehorses, has been exemplary. I would also like to highlight several significant achievements within the industry over the past year while recognizing that there is still much work to be done to reach our ideal goals. I hope these reflections inspire others to take bold actions to enhance our sport and acknowledge the dedication of many individuals who have devoted their lives to its advancement. This year has marked a pivotal moment for California racing, largely thanks to the support from the @StronachGroup in launching the California Crown. This initiative has been a tremendous success, demonstrating the remarkable outcomes we can achieve when we collaborate as an industry. Belinda, Adrian, and their entire team truly care about horse racing and have invested millions to enhance the fan experience. I witnessed this firsthand at the Pegasus event in January and the Preakness. As a new participant, I have actively sought feedback from members to explore potential improvements. While challenges remain, their commitment to our industry and the significant resources they have devoted to keep racing alive in California deserve commendation. Through constructive dialogue, I am confident they seek further enhancements, though they do not have unilateral control over all decisions. Although the introduction of @HISA_US has encountered obstacles, we have observed a decline in on-track fatalities, and the industry's adaptation to more structured standards is becoming clearer. I acknowledge that improvements are necessary, which is why I have volunteered to serve on HISA's advisory board. I want them to succeed, as they are the most influential body in the U.S. racing landscape. Successful owners continue to invest in the industry, often without seeking recognition or self-promotion on social media. The media has played a crucial role in promoting the sport and addressing complex issues, including aftercare for horses and the implementation of HISA. Jayson Werth, after a successful career in baseball, has experienced the unique fulfillment of competing on the track. Through individuals like Jayson, we have an opportunity to share this narrative with many potential owners, attracting further investment. Additionally, Travis Kelce's entry into horse ownership could have a transformative effect on the sport, similar to what he has done for the NFL. This year, horseplayers have enjoyed greater access to sports betting, thanks to initiatives from @FanDuel and @DraftKings, which have promoted deregulation in this area. While there is still room for improvement, these developments have positively impacted the game. We can also draw valuable lessons from successful models in Australia and Japan regarding the management of gambling revenue, enabling horseplayers to expand their operations and increase profitability. Organizations such as @JockeyClub, @ChurchillDowns, @Keeneland, and @TheNYRA have played a vital role in collaborating with HISA to enhance the safety of our equine athletes. As new leadership emerges, we should rally behind them and amplify our collective voice to effect positive change. Significant investments have also been made in the infrastructure of historic tracks like Churchill Downs, Keeneland and Belmont, creating venues that will captivate the next generation of horse racing fans. This investment is crucial and must extend to improving backstretch conditions to eliminate contamination issues and enhance living standards for both our equine athletes and the dedicated workers who support them. Protecting our collective investment means owners will need to accept increased boarding rates to fund these improvements. We are witnessing new owners making substantial investments in bloodstock, racing, and, most importantly, fan engagement. This is essential for our long-term success. The current fan experience lacks transparency, and owners, jockeys, and trainers need to be more accessible to their fan base. Engaging with fans will create more opportunities for interaction and transparency. Some premium events have become prohibitively expensive for everyday fans, and we must create accommodations to make these events more accessible for families, such as picnic areas in the infield and dedicated seating. I am particularly grateful to Drew Fleming and the team at @BreedersCup for helping us host our inaugural Resolute fan event. Stallion farms are taking bold risks by acquiring horses like Justify, Complexity, McKinzie, and others. These investments are yielding exceptional track performers from first-time sires, exciting racing fans and providing returns for owners and breeders committed to producing top-quality horses. This business is vital, and we must trust these farms, which are the backbone of our industry, to effectively manage their stallion operations. A disciplined approach to breeding top mares with proven bloodlines is essential; however, introducing stallions with alternative bloodlines can diversify the gene pool, making it possible for a broader range of buyers to participate in breeding operations and racing programs. I believe private stallions can also offer solutions for smaller breeders, similar to models from the early 20th century. Moreover, deregulation has enabled racing syndicates such as @MyRacehorse to make horse ownership accessible to a new demographic that once found it unattainable. We need to work with regulators to establish guidelines for horse ownership, as horses should not be classified as securities. The current regulatory oversight stifles investment. Micro-share ownership can significantly broaden the fan experience in a meaningful way. Groups like @LightUpRacing are facilitating discussions about the positive developments within the industry. While there are always areas for improvement, people respond better to positive reinforcement than to unchecked complaints. Given the pervasive grievances in our society, it would be refreshing for horse racing to serve as a unifying force, positioning the industry for the next century. Having worked in business for over 30 years, I have observed that those who complain often lack the drive to implement genuine improvements. The real changemakers are the individuals dedicated to enhancing our industry. I have had the privilege of meeting many dedicated professionals in global equine operations, and it is clear that the industry is filled with individuals who love and care deeply for these animals. Global sales have reached unprecedented heights, increasing value for owners and breeders, thanks to organizations committed to promoting well-bred horses and owners willing to invest in top-quality stock. This economic model has persisted for thousands of years; consumer demand shapes the direction of products, and if consumers were dissatisfied, prices would not be rising. While challenges remain, particularly regarding Thoroughbred aftercare, I firmly believe that collaboration can ensure long-term care for all our equine athletes. We must address the situation in Louisiana, where Thoroughbreds are traded as livestock with little regulation, necessitating accountability. I am confident that with collective efforts, this issue can be resolved. Additionally, I believe we need to collaborate with racing officials to reassess the distribution of purses for allowance and stakes races. While prize money in the U.S. is among the highest globally, the current distribution primarily benefits the winning horse. The significant disparity between first and second place makes it challenging to sustain a profitable racing operation. I propose a more equitable prize pool distribution, where the top share is divided among participants in stakes races to cover at least six weeks of training costs for each horse. This should include incentive funding from states, with the remaining prize money cascading down to lower-placed horses, ensuring the winner receives no more than 50% of the pool. This approach would provide immediate relief to mid-level owners who urgently need cash flow to continue investing in their operations, particularly those without extensive breeding operations to offset racing costs. I agree on the necessity for leadership within our sport. We need leaders of integrity who are not merely in the industry for self-promotion or to belittle others who have dedicated their lives to a sport we all cherish. Such divisive behavior is counterproductive, especially when we need to unite. I encourage everyone to share their thoughts and opinions and foster respectful dialogue. I do not condone disrespectful behavior and will remove individuals from my feed if they cannot engage civilly. I wish each of you a wonderful Thanksgiving. Despite the challenges our industry and country face, I remain optimistic. I believe our great nation grants us the freedoms and opportunities that many have sacrificed their lives for, and it is our duty to honor their legacy through dedication and hard work. I am reminded of JFK's vision of landing on the moon within a decade: “We choose to go to the moon not because it is easy, but because it is hard. This goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because this challenge is one we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win.” I recognize that there are many issues I have not addressed in this message. I know many of you are dedicated to creating change and caring for our equine athletes. I challenge each of us to prioritize the collective industry over individual interests, understanding that our success depends on contributions from everyone. It is easy to be self-centered; the hard path is to work collaboratively. Haven't we had enough of the former? It is not working, so why not try a different approach that encourages collaboration and support? I have no pride of authorship and will endorse any initiative that propels our industry forward. I also want to announce that I will personally fund a comprehensive review of the industry, examining various issues and identifying potential solutions. We can learn from industries that have successfully navigated even more significant challenges than ours. By studying their transformations, we can find methods to benefit the entire industry. For example, the NFL has transformed into one of the most successful sporting operations globally, despite facing lawsuits over concussions and increased scrutiny regarding players' mental health. Similarly, Formula 1, after being in decline a decade ago, has experienced rapid growth and revitalization under new ownership, enhancing both fan engagement and driver safety. I invite all industry participants to support this review, and I pledge to share the findings for the benefit of the entire community. I entered this industry not to win races, not to become a leader or disruptor, but because I love horse racing. I cherish the horses and enjoy spending time with individuals who share my belief in the importance of horse racing for our economy, particularly in the great state of Kentucky. While I am competitive and desire to win races, I measure my success by the positive impact we have on the horses and the industry as a whole. Some may doubt my sincerity, but I challenge you to get to know me and judge me by my actions rather than my words. May God bless you and your families this holiday season. Once again, I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving. The post Open Letter To The Industry: John Stewart appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Superstar local jockey reaches the milestone with a swooping victory aboard Pierre Ng’s Healthy Healthy.View the full article

New Zealander James McDonald has won the 2024 Longines World's Best Jockey title with 160 points, the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) announced on Wednesday. McDonald previously won the award in 2022. There was a margin of just 10 points back to Englishman Ryan Moore at 150. Moore, a four-time winner of the title, was clear of William Buick in third with 105 points. A ceremony will be held during a gala dinner of the Longines Hong Kong International Races at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre to honour McDonald on Dec. 6. Based in Australia, McDonald won nine of the world's Top 100 Group or Grade 1 races, with his qualifying victories coming with Romantic Warrior (Ire) (Acclamation {GB}) (Longines Hong Kong Mile, Citi Hong Kong Gold Cup, FWD Queen Elizabeth II Cup, Yasuda Kinen), Voyage Bubble (Aus) (Deep Field {Aus}) (Stewards' Cup), Via Sistina (Ire) (Fastnet Rock {Aus}) (Ranvet Stakes, Ladbrokes Cox Plate, and TAB Champions Stakes), and Sunshine In Paris (Aus) (Invader {Aus}) (Darley Champions Sprint). The awarding of the Longines World's Best Jockey title is based upon performances in the 100 highest-rated Group 1 and Grade 1 races as established for the year by the Longines World's Best Racehorse Rankings Committee. The scoring incorporates races from Dec. 1 of the previous year until Nov. 30 of the current year. Jockeys accrue 12 points for a win, six points for placing second, and four points for placing third. The post James McDonald Crowned Longines World’s Best Jockey appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Former jockey Aaron Gryder and five-time Eclipse Award-winning writer Jay Hovdey will be on hand at the upcoming Global Symposium on Racing to sign copies of Well Armed: A Thoroughbred of Destiny. The signing will take place on the afternoon of Dec. 10, at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson, Arizona. The just-published book is a story about the son of Tiznow, bred and raced by WinStar Farm, who overcame many physical setbacks to win the 2009 G1 Dubai World Cup by a whopping 14 lengths. The story is tied into the tragic passing of WinStar principal Bill Casner's daughter Karri, who was killed in a terrorist attack on the resort island of Bali in October 2002. Well Armed was born six months later on what would have marked Karri Casner's 24th birthday. Well Armed: A Thoroughbred of Destiny also tells the story of the journeyman Gryder, winner of 4,000 races over the course of his career who retired from riding in 2020 take the position of Vice President-Industry Relations for 1ST/Racing, with an emphasis on the safety and welfare of participants at the company's widespread racing and training properties. The post Gryder, Hovdey To Sign Well Armed Book at Global Symposium appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Group winner Klaynn (Ire) (Make Believe {GB}) and the stakes-placed Thiene (Ire) (Cotai Glory {GB}) are the newest pair of wildcards to be added to the upcoming Arqana Vente d'Elevage. The former, sold as lot 210 from Baroda Stud, is unbeaten, and has won the Listed Premio Repubbliche Marinare followed by the G2 Premio Dormello. Rated 104, she is a out of a half-sister to three black-type winners including G1 Derby Italiano winner De Sica (Ire) (Sri Pekan). Thiene, second in the Listed Prix Ceres last weekend, will be offered by Alessandro and Giuseppe Botti as lot 140 and is a four-time winner. She is out of a half-sister to top-tier winner Vedelago (Ire) (Red Clubs {Ire}). Arqana's Vente d'Elevage will take place in Deauville from Dec. 7-10. Both fillies will sell during the first session on Saturday. The post Group 2 Winner Klaynn And Listed-Placed Thiene Added To Arqana’s Vente d’Elevage appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The post The Mating Game appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A high quality 343-lot catalogue has been assembled for NZB Standardbred’s 2025 National Yearling Sale to be held at Karaka and Canterbury Agricultural Park next summer. The refreshed sale format will see selling at Auckland on Saturday, February 15 and in Christchurch, Tuesday February 18. The condensed sale with inspection days between Auckland and Christchurch sessions allows time for travel and inspections. The New Zealand product continues to perform on major race days across Australasia, with NZB Standardbred graduates adding to the blockbuster performances in recent times. Headlined by horses such as Merlin (NZ) (Art Major), Meant To Be (NZ) (Father Patrick), Marketplace (NZ) (Bettor’s Delight), Rakero Rebel (NZ) (Rock N Roll Heaven), Major Hot (NZ) (Art Major), Cyclone Jordy (NZ) (Art Major), Coastal Babe (NZ) (Downbytheseaside), Don’t Stop Dreaming (NZ) (Bettor’s Delight), Millwood Nike (NZ) (Captaintreacherous) and more, the Sale has become an incredible source of racetrack stars. With 130 yearlings set to go under the hammer in Auckland and a further 213 in Christchurch, buyers will have the opportunity to secure top-class yearlings from blue-blooded families, with a number of siblings to Group 1 winners and progeny from Group 1-winning dams. Some of those include: · Lot 9, a full sister to Group 1 Victorian Oaks and Caduceus Club Classic winner Coastal Babe (NZ) (Downbytheseaside) presented by breeders Woodlands Stud. · Offered on behalf of first-time consignors at this Sale in Yabby Dam Farms, Lot 34 is a half-brother to three-time Group1 winner in Australia Cravache Dor (AUS) (Orlando Vici). The colt is by Muscles N Blue and will be prepared by Hollis & Robertson Equine Services. · A rare opportunity is presented with the first ever colt out of Champion mare Adore Me (NZ) (Bettor’s Delight) going through the ring as Lot 70. By Captaintreacherous, he will be offered by Woodlands Stud. · Lot 81 is a half-brother to incredible filly Millwood Nike (NZ) (Captaintreacherous). By Art Major, the colt is offered by co-breeders Alabar. · Multiple Group 1-winner Merlin (NZ) (Art Major) has a half-brother catalogued as Lot 134. The Captaintreacherous colt is offered by Laura Smith on behalf of breeders Taffy Ltd. · Lot 142 features an exciting combination, by champion racehorse and freshman sire King of Swing, out of Kate Black (NZ) (Bettor’s Delight), making this colt a half-brother to trans-Tasman Group 1 winner Got The Chocolates (NZ) (Art Major). · Barron Bloodstock also offer a full sister (Lot 301) to the exciting Marketplace (NZ) (Bettor’s Delight) who’s had a major pedigree update winning the Group 1 Sires Stakes Series Final since the catalogue went to print. There are 39 stallions represented including champions Bettor’s Delight, Art Major, Captaintreacherous and more, plus the first offering from freshmen Bird Parker, Face Time Bourbon, King of Swing, On A Streak and Zenith Stride. The catalogue also features the first-ever Australian-owned and bred yearlings to be offered, from the world-class Victorian-based Yabby Dam Farms. “The quality of the catalogue continues to make this Sale the best in Australasia,” says NZB Standardbred Manager Cam Bray. “The inclusion of Yabby Dam’s horses in Laura Smith and Hollis & Robertson Equine Services’ draft just adds to some of the incredible yearlings on offer.” “There are some really current performers in the catalogue and we are particularly excited to sell the first colt out of champion mare Adore Me, not to mention the full to the rising superstar Marketplace. “While the condensed catalogue is a reflection of the reduced foal crop, the format is preferable for buyers and the opportunity to buy quality yearlings is limited, so if you want a nice horse, this is the source.” All yearlings will be available for inspection during the on-farm parades, with all prospective buyers welcome to attend to get a head start on inspections and evaluations. NZB Standardbred and New Zealand-based agents and trainers will be available to inspect on behalf of prior to the Sale and on the grounds at the Karaka Sales Centre and Canterbury Agricultural Park. Buyers wishing to purchase remotely can participate via NZB’s user-friendly online bidding platform standardbred.bidonline.nzb.co.nz, while all buyers and agents are welcome to attend the physical sale sessions in person at Karaka and Christchurch. All yearlings purchased at the 2025 National Yearling Sale are eligible for the lucrative $1 million Harness Million Sale Race Series for graduates, consisting of principal two-year-old and three-year-old races for colts and geldings, fillies and trotters individually, plus opportunities for four-year-old and older horses. Selling Schedule : 2025 Auckland Sale at the Karaka · Saturday 15 February, Parades from 10am, selling from 1pm (NZT): Lots 1 – 130 To see the Auckland catalogue click here 2025 Christchurch Sale at Canterbury Agricultural Park · Inspection Days: Sunday 16 February (subject to buyer demand) and Monday 17 February 2025 · Selling: Tuesday 18 February, 11am (NZT): Lots 131-343. To see the Christchurch catalogue click here On-Farm Parade Dates : North Island Tour · Monday 20 & Tuesday 21 January North Canterbury Tour · Monday 3 & Tuesday 4 February Southland Tour · Monday 10 & Tuesday 11 February The online catalogue for Karaka and Christchurch are now available to view online at www.nzbstandardbred.co.nz, on the Equineline app, and with printed copies due to arrive in mailboxes soon. For general sale enquiries or more information, email standardbred@nzb.co.nz or call +64 9 298 0055. View the full article

What Hawkesbury Races Where Hawkesbury Race Club – 1 Racecourse Rd, Clarendon NSW 2756 When Thursday, November 28, 2024 First Race 1:15pm AEDT Visit Dabble Provincial racing heads to Hawkesbury on Thursday afternoon, with a competitive eight-race program set to get underway at 1:15pm local time. The rail is out +3m between the 1100m to 450m markers, while the remainder is in the true position. The track is rated a Good 4 at the time acceptances, but with plenty of rain forecast on race-day, punters can expect a downgrade into the Soft range at some point throughout the afternoon. Check out our best bets and quaddie selections down below. Best Bet at Hawkesbury: Froebel Star The Ciaron Maher-trained Froebel Star returns after a 200-day spell and looks perfectly placed in this BM64 for the fillies & mares. The daughter of Zousain comes through quality formlines last preparation, breaking her maiden status before coming undone on heavy ground in the Group 3 Ken Russell Memorial Classic (1200m) at the Sunshine Coast on May 11. Her trial at this course on November 14 suggests she’s ready to fire first-up, and with Mollie Fitzgerald taking 3kg off her back, Froebel Star should have issues taking care of this lot. Best Bet Race 6 – #2 Froebel Star (6) 3yo Filly | T: Ciaron Maher | J: Mollie Fitzgerald (a3kg) (60.5kg) Bet with Neds Next Best at Hawkesbury: Shambretta Shambretta debuts on the back of a barrier trial victory at Randwick on November 11 and should get every chance to make an impression first-up. Kerrin McEvoy will be looking to dictate terms from barrier two, and with a lack of early speed, the son of Shamexpress should have no issues crossing to the front. He lacks race-day experience compared to some key rivals, but provided he can tick over a soft sectional in the middle stages, Shambretta should give a bold sight at a good price with BlondeBet. Next Best Race 3 – #2 Shambretta (2) 4yo Gelding | T: John O’Shea & Tom Charlton | J: Kerrin McEvoy (59kg) Bet with BlondeBet Best Value at Hawkesbury: Miss Jones The Richard & Will Freedman-trained Miss Jones has caught the eye in two recent barrier trials at Rosehill and appears primed for a first-up assault. The unraced three-year-old cruised through the wire in her latest piece of work, getting to within a nose of Burj under a tight grip by Jason Collett. She could have above-average ability, and with Collett likely to lob into the ideal stalking position from stall one, punters can expect Miss Jones to be right in the finish. Best Value Race 4 – #13 Miss Jones (1) 3yo Filly | T: Richard & Will Freedman | J: Jason Collett (55kg) Bet with Picklebet Thursday quaddie tips for Hawkesbury Hawkesbury quadrella selections November 28, 2024 2-5-6 2-9 1-2-3-4 1-4-5-6-7-10 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Shaune Ritchie and Colm Murray’s stayer Nereus(NZ) (Savabeel) carried the colours of Waikato Stud to win last Saturday’s Gr.3 Counties Cup (2100m), and at Te Aroha on Wednesday, their exciting three-year-old Tycoon Prince(NZ) (Written Tycoon) put Cambridge Stud’s name to the forefront with an impressive maiden success. A gelding by Written Tycoon, Tycoon Prince debuted as a juvenile in mid-February before going for a spell, and since returning, his talent has been evident with a runner-up finish to Osteria at Pukekohe on November 7. Starting an equal favourite with Para Para in Wednesday’s December Final Hurrah Of 2024 3YO (1150m), Tycoon Prince flew from the gates, but Ryan Elliot had no intention of leading and allowed a trio of runners to duel for the pace in front. Para Para hit the lead early in the straight with Tycoon Prince in pursuit, and his big, bounding strides were too powerful late to score by a neck, with the third placegetter a further three lengths adrift in Mulan Ardeche. Ritchie couldn’t have been happier with the performance, crediting his training partner and Elliot from an educational point of view. “He’s a big horse and he’s been a little bit claustrophobic in the barriers, so Colm has spent a lot of time teaching him to relax and getting that nervousness out of him,” he said. “It’s paid dividends today. “He’s a lovely big horse and we’re very keen to get him to 1400m, but we just feel he’s over-racing a bit at the moment and sitting outside the leader. “I thought it was a great educational ride by Ryan, just to take that sit on him. He clearly could’ve crossed and led, but it will greatly benefit the horse in the future by letting those three go and sitting in behind them, then coming out on the corner. “Teaching him to follow, I believe, is the key to getting him to 1400m and a mile later on in life, if he can retain that turn of foot over a mile he’s going to be awfully hard to beat in those later three-year-old races, and as a four and five-year-old.” Tycoon Prince was bred by Cambridge Stud principals Brendan and Jo Lindsay, who entrusted the gelding in Ritchie and Murray’s care after he was withdrawn from the 2023 Inglis Premier Yearling Sale. “My understanding is that he went to a sale and unfortunately he didn’t meet what they expected for him, so wisely they decided to keep him,” Ritchie said. “If you’re not going to get the right price, it’s to our benefit if they’re going to retain horses of his quality. “We’re very lucky as trainers though, we are in the situation where we are getting to train for the likes of Cambridge Stud today and we won a Counties Cup for Waikato Stud last Saturday. These are guys that have been in the game and breeding horses from properties that have been around for years and years, and that makes it a privilege to train for them. “It gives you the quality animal you are wanting to work with and it’s so much easier to do the job we do.” Going forward, Ritchie intends to spend as much time in the bright lights of Ellerslie as possible with Tycoon Prince, with the ultimate goal of contesting the lucrative age-group races being staged there in the new year. “He’s good on top of the ground, so we’ll start having a look at Ellerslie as much as we can, given that the better three-year-old money is there,” he said. “We will have a programme to race him there as much as we can on their nice firm track and hopefully that will give the horse his best chance to win the maximum amount while he’s at that prime age. “We’re well aware of how important it is for a three-year-old to get black-type, because once they turn four, it’s not always the easiest year for them. We will try to take advantage of that. “We have spaced his races to this point, so it’ll be interesting to step him up and see how good we are against those better three-year-olds.” Another promising thee-year-old in the stable, Tuxedo, will make his stakes-level debut at Otaki on Thursday, lining up in the Gr.3 Elsdon Park Wellington Stakes (1600m). The Tivaci gelding won on debut at Te Aroha on October 30 over 1400m, narrowly defeating Withallmyfaith, who went on to win in Premier Rating 65 company at Pukekohe last Saturday. Joe Doyle will retain the ride in the feature where Tuxedo is rated a $6.50 hope in a condensed market topped by He’s Lucid ($5). “I really like this horse, the horse he beat last time has gone on to win two in a row so the form around him is very good,” Ritchie said. “He is a bit green, he gets things a bit wrong and he wanted to over-race early at his first start, and then when he got to the front he wanted to wait a little bit, which he’s mimicking in training. “He’s got a bit to learn so he will be vulnerable, but we see him as a Derby type of a colt and that awkward gate (9) is probably the best thing for him, because we’ll allow him to find his feet tomorrow and I don’t think he’s the sort of horse that we want getting to the front too soon. “It’s a big step, for a horse coming out of a maiden race straight into a Group Three, but having said that, it’s basically a Rating 65 race in his age group. “That little bit of cut in the ground is why we’ve elected to go here instead of the two Ellerslie races in the next couple of weeks, because he’s quite a big horse and we want him to gradually get used to the firmer tracks. A Soft 5 and the rain forecasted tomorrow, it should set up nicely for the firmer tracks over the summer where he hopes he excels over further.” View the full article

Waikato hoop Darren Danis is on the sidelines once more after sustaining a fractured neck following an incident at the Waipa trials last Monday. Danis was about to ride Beau Miller in his first trial for trainer Janenne Dalley, but the three-year-old gelding showed his greenness when entering the gates and took fright, dislodging Danis, who suffered whiplash in the process, resulting in his injuries. “I was riding a first time trialler who got scared going into the gates,” Danis said. “I (fractured) my C4 and C5 (vertebrae), which is right in the middle of the neck, and I have torn some ligaments there. The doctors reckon it is from whiplash.” Danis is now forced to wear a body suit brace for the next six weeks while his injuries heal, which is proving to be a frustrating process for the active horseman. “I am in a body suit, which is like a neck brace but continues down to the chest,” he said. “If someone comes from the side to say hello, I have to turn my entire body to see them, and I can’t drive because I can’t check my blind spots. “Sleeping is the worst. It feels a bit claustrophobic with this thing on 24 hours a day. “Luckily, I have got Hayley (Hassman), my partner, she has been helping me out a lot.” Major injuries are nothing new to the 32-year-old Singapore native, having broken his back several years ago in another riding incident, and he said last week’s pain was nearly identical. “In the ambulance, I was telling the lady (paramedic) that my neck hurt and it was the exact pain as when I broke my back,” Danis said. “I could pinpoint which vertebrae and which spot, it was a similar sharp pain, so I knew it was broken. “But I could feel my fingers and toes, and all the sensations, so that was a good sign.” With multiple injuries over his riding career, Danis said he has built up a high pain threshold, and it’s the limiting ability of the body brace that is the major frustration at the moment. “They were asking me if I wanted more pain killers in the hospital, but I told them it was okay. I have got a high pain threshold as I have been there and done that,” he said. “It is only the brace that is annoying because even when I broke my back, I didn’t have to wear this, I was back up and walking within two weeks.” Danis has recently returned from a riding stint in Singapore and was working hard to reestablish himself in New Zealand’s riding ranks, something he has been forced to do on several occasions. While he still has a passion for horses and riding, he said it will be another test of his tenacity to break into the competitive Waikato riding scene once more after he has healed. “I have been unlucky, it happened just as I started to get on a roll again,” he said. “It was a bit quiet when I came back from Singapore and as I just start to get more rides this happens at the trials. “It has been quite a rough ride with these injuries. There is a lot of competition nowadays and you have to get a roll on and the moment you step out of the scene you lose your spot. That is the difficult part about it. “I still love the game, and I still love the horses. I just have to keep my spirits high and keep my options open.” View the full article

Kelvin Tyler’s annual working holiday rolls around like clockwork with the Cromwell Racing Carnival, a weekend he is looking forward to with nearly a dozen horses engaged across the two days later this week. Based at Riverton, Tyler has endured plenty of inclement weather over the past couple of months and will be greeted by a much firmer racing surface on Friday than experienced in the south of late. “It’s really good to get away from the weather we’ve had down here, the track is always in really good condition and it’s a nice change of environment for horses and humans,” Tyler said. “We normally go up for the weekend, get a house and have a good time away. We’re taking a few of the staff up and enjoy ourselves, with a bit of racing in the meantime.” Tyler will bring a mix of experience and up-and-coming talent to the Central Otago meeting on Friday, headed by Albatross(NZ) (Sacred Falls) in the Girl On The Ground and Urban Fencing (2030m). The daughter of Sacred Falls won three in a row through the spring period and finished third to Spot On Time over Cup Week, and after finishing back in last Sunday’s Winton Cup (1400m), Tyler is happy to test her over the middle distance. “It’s always hard to judge a run at Invercargill because there is a frontrunner’s bias normally, but maybe she’s lost a bit of her freshness and looking for some more ground,” he said. “It looks not an overly strong field, so she has a good chance.” Albatross will be joined by stablemate Vamos(NZ) (Vadamos) in the contest, who was a dominant victor two starts back at Wingatui, before working hard early to finish midfield in a strong Rating 75 at Riccarton. “He probably did a much too much early in that race, getting out of the gates quick and setting it up for the back runners,” Tyler said. “It’s hard to find a race for these 75 staying horses, so this was the only suitable one around. He seems good and he’ll be a runner’s chance.” Tyler is looking forward to the return of consistent mare Go Lotte(NZ) (Telperion) across the weekend, but he is unsure whether she will be seen in Friday’s Catalyst Performance Clare Memorial Cup (1220m), or the KB Contractors Open (1400m). A winner of eight races, Go Lotte has been most dangerous in the 1335-1400m range, which may sway Tyler’s decision. “We’ll definitely only start the one day with her, I’m not sure which one yet and 1200 is probably a bit sharp,” he said. “I’ll see what the track’s like when I get up there and make a decision, but she’s doing really well and always goes well fresh. I think she’ll be in for another good season.” Vadamos mare Radiant Reach(NZ) (Vadamos) actually jumped really well, and beat a tidy field of horses. If she can do everything right, she’ll take a bit of beating I believe.” Tyler’s younger contingent will include the well-related More Sass(NZ) (Mongolian Falcon) in the Jackson Smart Roofing and Omakau Auto Centre (1220m) and Indie Ardie(NZ) (Ardrossan) in the Fowler Decorators and Versatile Cromwell (1400m), with the former coming out of an open three-year-old contest won by stakes performer Lil Zena. “She (More Sass) got really lost up there at Riccarton, she just got back on the inside and panicked,” Tyler said. “We’ve changed some gear on her so hopefully that will help, she should take a bit of beating as well.” Earlier in the week, Tyler will be keeping a close watch on the Otaki meeting on Thursday, where his talented galloper Lightning Jack(NZ) (Per Incanto) will make his final Group One preparations in the Bobby Foundations Backing Kiwi Legends Mile (1600m). The eight-year-old gelding was an impressive fourth in the Gr.1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m) at Matamata in early October, and finished in the same position in the Gr.3 Thompson Handicap (1600m) last-start. “He’s just the same every week old Jack, he’s just a darling of a horse,” Tyler said. “He’s pretty hardened to the travel now, but he just loves it up there. Lorraine and Howie (Mathews) spoil him rotten, they do a really good job and I’m very appreciative of that. He’s a no-hassle horse, nothing bothers him and he’s the kindest horse you’ll get. “He’s got a bit of weight off his back tomorrow and he’ll go around with 58 which isn’t a bad weight for him. “It’s a nice hit-out for him, his next race will be the TAB Mufhasa Classic (Gr.1, 1600m) next Saturday and this fitted in well. He was meant to run there (Trentham) last week when the races were called off, so this was our back-up plan. “He’s working really well during the last wee while and by the sounds, he’s on track.” View the full article

In any other year Group One-winning mare Skew Wiff(NZ) (Savabeel) would likely be on her way to the breeding barn, however, with the level of prizemoney now on offer, owner-breeder Mark Chittick of Waikato Stud has decided to continue with her as a racing proposition. The daughter of Champion New Zealand stallion Savabeel has four wins to her credit to date, including last year’s Gr.1 Tarzino Trophy (1400m) at Hastings and Gr.3 HKJC Stakes (1400m) at Flemington on Melbourne Cup Day. She returned to New Zealand ahead of the new season and impressed her connections with her performances over the early part of spring, including placings in the Gr.1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m) and Gr.2 Foxbridge Plate (1200m). Off the back of those runs, and the increased prizemoney over summer, including the introduction of the Sport Nation Champion Sprint Series, Chittick elected to keep his five-year-old mare in work with trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson at Matamata following a freshen-up. “The beauty about Entain and the prizemoney here, and in Australia, it gives a mare like that incentive to race on,” Bergerson said. “There are so many good races for her over summer, especially with that sprint series. “She raced so well in the spring, we gave her a break and brought her back and Mark (Chittick, Waikato Stud principal) was keen to have another season with her racing.” Skew Wiff validated Chittick’s decision with a pleasing trial win over 900m at Taupo on Tuesday and is on track to try and add to her elite-level haul over summer. “We didn’t expect her to trial that well,” Bergerson said. “We were mindful that Waipa is next week, and it could be quite firm, so we brought that trial forward. Opie (Bosson, jockey) said she was so well and so keen, you couldn’t go any quieter on her. “I am really happy with how she pulled up, she had a good blow and looks fantastic, probably the best she has ever looked. “She will go onto another trial towards the middle of December and then hopefully onto the Telegraph (Gr.1, 1200m) and the Railway (Gr.1, 1200m), which look the two logical options for her initially.” Bergerson was also pleased to see exciting filly Damask Rose return to the trials on Tuesday, with the three-year-old daughter of Savabeel finishing runner-up in her 1000m heat behind stablemate Polly Plum. “Opie rode her and he was happy with everything, she felt great. She had a bit of a blow on pulling up so she will definitely improve,” Bergerson said. Damask Rose was a standout juvenile last term, winning on debut at New Plymouth before finishing runner-up to Velocious in the Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m). She picked up an injury during that run and was ruled out of the rest of the season, but returned in good form earlier this spring where she placed behind star fillies Alabama Lass and Captured By Love in the Gr.3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m) at Hastings. “She chipped a fetlock in the Karaka Million and we were mindful that they sometimes don’t come back from an injury like that, but the Gold Trail showed she still wants to do it and she has come back in good order,” Bergerson said. “She was really good in the Gold Trail and then we tipped her out as we thought she needed a bit more time, and she seems to have come back in really good order. Fingers crossed she is in for an exciting summer.” Damask Rose is set to resume at Te Rapa next month, with and eye towards the TAB Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) at Ellerslie on January 25. “She will go to Te Rapa on Waikato Cup Day, there is a three-year-old 1200m and then potentially onto the Auckland Guineas (Gr.2, 1400m) on Boxing Day, and then onto the Karaka Million hopefully.” View the full article

What 2024 Winterbottom Stakes Where Ascot Racecourse – Perth, Western Australia When Saturday, November 30, 2024 Prizemoney $1,500,000 Distance 1200m Conditions Weight For Age 2023 winner Overpass (10) | T: Bjorn Baker | J: Joshua Parr (58.5kg) Visit Dabble The Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes will headline proceedings at Ascot this Saturday afternoon, with the feature event scheduled for 4:56pm AWST. A full field of 16 runners are expected to line up in the 1200m contest, with one of those being defending champion, Overpass. Unlike most of the Western Australian feature races, the Winterbottom has been good to runner trained in the Eastern states, with eight winners of the last 15 editions hailing from stables on the other side of the country. Will Bjorn Baker and Overpass continue their dominance in Ascot sprinting features, or will a local horse claim the Winterbottom Stakes in 2024? 2024 Winterbottom Stakes odds Horse racing bookmakers have not let Overpass get under their guard once again in 2024, opening the betting market with the defending champion at the top at $2.70. Behind the Bjorn Baker-trained runner, the Grant & Alana Williams-trained Western Empire sits on the second line of betting at $5, with Lady Laguna ($6) and Maharba ($9) rounding out the runners marked under $10. Rope Them In ($15), Bravo Centurion ($15) and Almighty Class ($16) bring good form into the Winterbottom Stakes and they will attract money at each-way prices. 2024 Winterbottom Stakes speed map The key speed influences have all drawn wide barriers, which should allow Overpass, Bravo Centurion and Boots Like Bruce time to cross the field and fight out the lead. With a strong speed expected, the likes of Lady Laguna, Almighty Class and Man Crush will settle behind the speed from their inside gates. Maharba, Western Empire and Saloon Bar will appreciate the strong tempo at the back of the field, and if you can make ground on the day, they will be flying home down the middle of the track in the final 400m. Continue reading for HorseBetting’s top selections and $100 betting strategy for the 2024 Winterbottom Stakes. Winterbottom Stakes 2024 preview & form The lethal combination of Team Williams and William Pike will combine with Western Empire as they seek their second victory in the race, after Graceful Girl claimed the Winterbottom Stakes in 2021. The 2021 Railway Stakes winner has won or placed in Western Australia’s best races; however, this will be the first time the son of Iffraaj competes in the Winterbottom. The Grant & Alana Williams-prepared gelding finished as unlcuky second place in the Group 3 Colonel Reeves Stakes (1100m) as the race favourite, but given the strength of his last 200m, Western Empire will appreciate a rise to 1200m and a much better barrier (4). If Overpass does go back-to-back in the Winterbottom Stakes, he will have done it the hard way after jumping from the widest barrier and settling on a hot speed. We won’t be losing on the race if the Bjorn Baker sprinter proves too good once again. Outside of the top two, Almighty Class can bounce back from a torrid run in the Colonel Reeves, likewise Saloon Bar, who will appreciate the hot speed and will be flying home from the back of the field. Winterbottom Stakes 2024 selections & best bets Selections: 2 WESTERN EMPIRE 1 OVERPASS 13 ALMIGHTY CLASS 6 SALOON BAR $100 betting strategy $50 win Western Empire (#2) @ +400 with BlondeBet $50 win Overpass (#1) @ +170 with Playup 2024 Winterbottom Stakes Final Field 1. Overpass (16) T: Bjorn Baker J: Joshua Parr W: 58.5kg F: 81x1x Age: 6YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Vancouver Dam: Walkway +170 -232.56 2. Western Empire (4) T: Grant & Alana Williams J: William Pike W: 58.5kg F: 2×241 Age: 7YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Iffraaj (GB) Dam: Western Jewel +400 +100 3. Red Can Man (11) T: Steve Wolfe J: Shaun O’Donnell W: 58.5kg F: 6×063 Age: 8YO Colour: Chestnut Sex: Gelding Sire: Gingerbread Man Dam: Brocky’s Ace +5000 +1250 4. Hot Zed (2) T: Lou Luciani J: Jason Whiting W: 58.5kg F: 0x067 Age: 7YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Red Hot Choice Dam: Zedfire +5000 +1250 5. Maharba (6) T: Grahame Begg J: Jordan Childs W: 58.5kg F: 13×31 Age: 4YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Pride of Dubai Dam: Blizzardly +800 +200 6. Saloon Bar (13) T: Daniel Morton J: Steven Parnham W: 58.5kg F: 32218 Age: 5YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Sessions Dam: Paris Cracker +1600 +400 7. Man Crush (7) T: Luke Fernie J: Clint Johnston-Porter W: 58.5kg F: 07132 Age: 5YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Manhattan Rain Dam: Crushed +10000 +2500 8. Snowdome (10) T: Neville Parnham J: Brad Parnham W: 58.5kg F: 6x77x Age: 5YO Colour: Grey Sex: Gelding Sire: Rommel Dam: Snow Pixie +5000 +1250 9. Rope Them In (9) T: Steve Wolfe J: Shaun McGruddy W: 58.5kg F: 1521x Age: 4YO Colour: Brown Sex: Gelding Sire: Playing God Dam: Lead Rope +1400 +350 10. Boots Like Bruce (14) T: Anne King J: ALan Kennedy W: 58.5kg F: 74×11 Age: 7YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Alfred Nobel (IRE) Dam: Smithfields +10000 +2500 11. Bravo Centurion (15) T: Luke Fernie J: Chris Parnham W: 58.5kg F: 11111 Age: 4YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: National Defense (GB) Dam: Comme Ca +1400 +350 12. Rockin’ Rupert (3) T: Sean & Jake Casey J: Lucy Fiore W: 58.5kg F: 5×115 Age: 6YO Colour: Chestnut Sex: Gelding Sire: Winning Rupert Dam: Love the Rock (NZ) +5000 +1250 13. Almighty Class (5) T: Mitchell Pateman J: Jarrad Noske W: 58.5kg F: 411×0 Age: 4YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Playing God Dam: My Classy Lady +1500 +375 14. Crippalenko (8) T: Greg Beauglehole J: TBC W: 58.5kg F: 0311x Age: 5YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Maschino Dam: Brookesmebaby +20000 +5000 15. Lady Laguna (1) T: Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald J: James McDonald W: 56.5kg F: 036×7 Age: 5YO Colour: Bay Sex: Mare Sire: Overshare Dam: Catalina de Lago (NZ) +500 +125 16. Laced Up Heels (12) T: Luke Fernie J: Joseph Azzopardi W: 56.5kg F: 6860x Age: 5YO Colour: Bay Sex: Mare Sire: Toronado (IRE) Dam: A City Girl +5000 +1250 Horse racing tips View the full article

Race 8 CHRISTMAS AT THE RACES THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024 MAIDEN 1600m BLUE JEANIE (H Grace) – Trainer Mr. B Newman reported to Stewards, he was satisfied with the post-race condition of BLUE JEANIE and it is his intention to carry on with the mare’s current preparation. The post Taranaki TRI @ New Plymouth Raceway, Friday, 22 November 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Overpass winning the Group 3 Sydney Stakes. Photo: Bradleyphotos.com.au The Bjorn Baker-trained Overpass is set to chase a fourth Perth sprint feature victory this Saturday in the Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m) at Ascot. The five-year-old gelding boasts an impressive record in Western Australia, having claimed victory in the first two editions of The Quokka (1200m) as well as last year’s Winterbottom Stakes. After finishing unplaced in the Group 1 Champions Sprint (1200m) at Flemington earlier this month, Overpass heads into the Winterbottom off a strong first-up win in the Group 3 Sydney Stakes (1200m) last month. “I think he’s better,” said Bjorn Baker’s racing manager, Luke Hilton. “We thought he was better first-up and that he’d improved again going to the Champions Sprint. “He just doesn’t go down the straight as well as he goes around the bends.” Hilton highlighted the gelding’s adaptability in cornered races compared to straight-track events. “When you look at the race (Champions Sprint), the way it panned out, you had *Sunshine In Paris* only two lengths off him, whereas around a bend race, she’d be five and six lengths off him. “He loves Perth – he has done it so many times now, and I’m confident he will bounce back. “I think he’s better than he was 12 months ago.” Horse racing news View the full article

Race 4 AWASSI MAIDEN 1400m NOZUMI (J Riddell) – Co-trainer Ms. S Thompson-Brown reported to Stewards, that on Wednesday 20 November, NOZUMI, underwent a veterinary examination which included an endoscopic examination and blood tests, which revealed no abnormalities. S Thompson-Brown further advised it is the stables intention to continue on with the gelding’s current preparation. The post Woodville-Pahiatua Racing Club @ Woodville, Sunday 17 November 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Pisces. (Photo by Scott Barbour/Racing Photos) James Cummings and the Godolphin team are optimistic about stepping Pisces up to 1600 metres for Saturday’s Group 2 Sandown Guineas (1600m) at Caulfield. Now a gelding and more mature, Pisces has impressed this campaign, claiming a win in the Group 3 Blue Sapphire Stakes (1400m) on November 16 and finishing in the placings in his other start. Blake Shinn, who rode Pisces during his two-year-old season when he placed second and fourth over 1400 and 1600 metres at Flemington, played a key role in shaping the team’s strategy. Reflecting on Pisces’ earlier campaigns, Godolphin assistant trainer Nacim Dilmi noted: “We did question the 1400 (metres) last time in when Blake Shinn rode him at Flemington, saying he feels like he could probably go beyond, so we gave it a try, but he was coming off a big prep. “When Blake came back, he said it was either the distance or the extended prep.” The team responded by giving Pisces a well-earned break, and the results have been encouraging. “His run in the Red Anchor was good, his run here two weeks ago was very good, and we have no doubt that over the 1600 this time he’ll be competitive,” Dilmi added. Horse racing news View the full article

What Caulfield Heath Races Where Caulfield Heath Racecourse – Gate 2, Station St, Caulfield East VIC 3145 When Thursday, November 28, 2024 First Race 1:30pm AEDT Visit Dabble The Heath track at Caulfield is the destination for racing in Victoria on Thursday afternoon. The track was rated a Soft 5 at the time of acceptances on Tuesday, and with persistent rain forecast on Wednesday before a clear day on Thursday, it is unlikely we will see an upgrade. The rail comes out 2m for the entire circuit, with the first race set to jump at 1:30pm AEDT. Best Bet at Caulfield Heath: Inexorable Inexorable has had excuses for each of his last two starts at Moonee Valley. The four-year-old was badly held up before powering home two runs back, then was obliged to race three wide with no cover last start and over-raced throughout. If Damian Lane can find cover from barrier 11 and get this bloke to settle, Inexorable has the finish to overhaul his rivals. Best Bet Race 3 – #2 Inexorable (11) 4yo Gelding | T: Grahame Begg | J: Damian Lane (59.5kg) Bet with Neds Next Best at Caulfield Heath: Capulet Capulet saw zero daylight until it was too late at Moonee Valley last time out, but her form prior suggests she is the best way home in the Caulfield Heath finale. The four-year-old mare disposed of her BM58 rivals by four lengths at Wangaratta three runs back before a respectable effort in metro company at Morphettville. She retains the services of Jaylah Kennedy, whose 2kg claim gets Capulet in perfectly at the weights. Next Best Race 8 – #2 Capulet (7) 4yo Mare | T: Tony & Calvin McEvoy | J: Jaylah Kennedy (a2) (61kg) Bet with BlondeBet Best Value at Caulfield Heath: Disturbia At an each-way price with horse racing bookmakers, Disturbia can run a big race in the quaddie opener. The five-year-old mare seems to do her best racing when up on speed, and from barrier eight, Luke Nolen will look to have the Turn Me Loose mare outside the lead throughout. In a race without much speed, Nolen will look to apply the pressure when turning for home, and from there Disturbia should prove hard to run down over 1600m. Best Value Race 5 – #4 Disturbia (8) 5yo Mare | T: Emma-Lee & David Browne | J: Luke Nolen (60kg) Bet with Picklebet Thursday quaddie tips for Caulfield Heath Caulfield Heath quadrella selections Thursday, November 28, 2024 1-2-3-4-7-8 1-2-4-6 1-2-4-6 2-4 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Werribee Racing Club has announced a major new partnership with online bookmaker Picklebet, marking the company’s first foray into racecourse sponsorship. As part of the agreement, the venue will now be called Picklebet Park Werribee, and the Werribee Cup (1600m) will also adopt the Picklebet name. Club manager Adam Wilkinson expressed his excitement about the partnership. “We are thrilled to welcome Picklebet as a key partner of Werribee Racing Club,” he said. “They are an outstanding example of how a disruptor in the betting industry can drive innovation and excitement. “Their fresh perspective and forward-thinking approach align perfectly with our vision.* “This partnership not only strengthens our ability to deliver exceptional race days but also helps us connect with the next generation of racegoers, ensuring the long-term vibrancy of our club.” Horse racing news View the full article

Race 7 JENNY LAMING MEMORIAL PREMIER 1200m TENGIZ (K Hercock) – Trainer Mr. S Woodsford reported to Stewards, after being transferred by the horse ambulance to a local veterinary clinic for further veterinary evaluation, results showed significant tendon damage to the right hind leg, with the mare having to be humanely euthanised. The post Canterbury Jockey Club at Riccarton Park, Saturday 16 November 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Race 8 GREENLIGHT INSURANCE BROKERS 1400m KALLEDU THUNDER (J Riddell) – Co-trainer Ms. L Zydenbos advised Stewards, the stable was satisfied with the post-race condition of the gelding, however, KALLEDU THUNDER has now been sent for a spell. The post Racing Rotorua @ Arawa Park, Tuesday, 19 November 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

The Pennsylvania Horse Racing Commission (PHRC) on Tuesday voted to grant Thoroughbred racing dates for 2025 that will feature 150 programs at Parx, 105 at Penn National, and 76 at Presque Isle Downs. Prior to the vote on the dates, however, executives from each track were asked to do something rarely required by racing commissions in this country: Principals from each venue were requested to explain the rationale behind the 2025 takeout rates that accompanied each licensee's dates request. Takeout rates, the per-bet pricing structure that tracks and states impose upon wagers, are the bane of horseplayers because they are akin to a tax on betting. But takeout rates also provide the financial backbone the sport derives from the pari-mutuel process, because the money generated that way goes, in part, to pay for purses and to keep tracks operational and regulated. Yet price-conscious horseplayers for decades have lamented not only how high some of the takeouts have risen, but also how notoriously difficult it is to find comprehensive lists of those rates so that bettors can either comparison-shop, or, at the very least, know how much money will be removed from the pools prior to the calculation of winning prices. Pat Cummings, an industry expert whose advocacy for more transparent takeout rates has been featured in TDN on numerous occasions over the years, wrote in 2020 that horseplayers have long been frustrated at how “a single source of updated takeout rates for bets across all tracks was unavailable, and [how] sourcing the exact rates was nearly impossible.” When TDN touched base with Cummings via email Tuesday to see if that situation had improved, Cummings wrote back that, lamentably, there is still “not a single source for the industry which keeps up with this information routinely.” Against that backdrop, even though the explanations at the Nov. 26 PHRC meeting amounted to only brief remarks required before a vote on licensure, they provided a welcome trickle of information for horseplayers who are used to being kept in the dark about how tracks come up with their takeouts. This is what Pennsylvania's track operators had to say about their rates for 2025, listed in the order that each made their presentations. (Bear in mind that the commission had asked the executives in advance to prepare their remarks, so no one was caught unaware of this discussion). Eric Johnston, director of racing operations at Penn National, where takeout rates for 2025 will be 17% win-place-show; 20% exactas, doubles, Jackpot Pick 6 and Jackpot Pentafecta; 31% trifectas, twin trifectas; 30% superfectas and Pick 6; 25% Pick 3, 4 and 5. “Ours are comparable with those around the country. The one thing that you do see is a little high is the trifecta wagers, which come in at 31%. And in the grand scheme of things, it doesn't seem like it's that outrageous when you consider the history of racing over the years in Pennsylvania,” which, Johnston added, has transitioned from an era of robust on-track betting to being more simulcast-wager driven. “The business has changed. Of the live wagering, what's bet on the Penn National card every day is less than 10% of the total handle. So this money, these takeout rates, are one of the things that keep us out there. There's a lot of simulcast sites, a lot of computer wagerers who bet on us because of those rates. If we start cutting those, we will become less valuable. “We're certainly not getting rich off what [is being bet] there, but it's all part of the bigger story. I mean, the business has changed. The higher takeouts are along with the pools that have the highest payout, so it's not as noticeable. But it's not something that, you, know, it's not worth losing our outlets to lower those rates.” Matthew Ennis, the director of racing at Presque Isle, where takeout rates for 2025 will be 17% win-place-show; 20% exactas, doubles; 25% trifectas, superfectas; 23% Pick 3 and 4; 15% Pick 5. “Just looking at everything competitively, where we stand, compared to my parent company at Churchill Downs [Incorporated], I do feel that Presque Isle Downs has in place a takeout structure on our wagering options that serves the dual purpose of attracting the pari-mutuel dollar and generating the revenue needed to guarantee quality race cards and field sizes. “I don't feel as if our wagering structure is out of line in any manner. It's very competitive. We look at providing takeout options that are appealing to players in relation to takeouts on wagering menus offered by other tracks. And although I felt that our takeout rates do not tell the whole story of how players choose to wager their dollars, having the player-friendly takeout structure is beneficial in our process of generating larger handles at Presque Isle… “Of course, I have the protocol to follow with my corporate team at Churchill Downs, and abide by the ranges that they give.” Joe Wilson, chief operating officer at Parx, where takeout rates for 2025 will be 17% win-place-show; 20% exactas, doubles; 25% trifectas, superfectas, Pick 3, 4 and 6; 15% Pick 5. “Up until close to five years ago, our takeouts were 17% on win/pace/show; 20% exactas, doubles; 26% on 'pick' bets, and 30% on tris and supers. “Jan. 1, 2020, we reduced our takeout to 17%, 20% and 25%. So the tris and supers went from 30% to 25%; the 'pick' bets went from 26% to 25%. And a couple of years ago we added our Philly Big Five, and that's at 15%. “And it's amazing to me to where I still see people commenting on social media that Parx should lower their takeout, when in fact we lowered takeout five years ago. “Our blend [of takeout rates] right now is at 19.8%, [compared to neighboring Maryland tracks] at 21.25%. So we're [approximately] 1.5 points lower than Maryland. We're even with Delaware, and we're even with Monmouth Park. So we are as competitive as anybody in the area. “The other thing, if you were to lower your takeout too much–remember our signal goes out worldwide–and if you were to have a drastically reduced takeout, [importers] basically aren't going to promote your signal, because it's not [financially] in their best interest.” The post Pennsylvania Tracks Pull Back Curtain–a bit–on Takeout Rates appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article