Wandering Eyes

Damian Lane returns to the mounting yard on Veight after winning the Australia Stakes at Moonee Valley Racecourse on January 27, 2024. (Photo by Reg Ryan/Racing Photos) Group 1 George Ryder Stakes (1500m) winner Veight is set to be gelded following an underwhelming spring campaign. Trainer Tony McEvoy, who works alongside his son Calvin, discussed the decision with Racing.com: “Wayne Mitchell controls most of the horse and he never wanted to sell the horse, but the phone didn’t ring either.” Veight, a four-year-old, concluded his three-year-old season on a high note with victory in the George Ryder. However, his spring campaign this year fell short of expectations, as he failed to place in any of his three starts, including a disappointing performance in the Golden Eagle (1500m), where he finished second-last. “He ran very flat and very plain. He drew 18 but Harry (Coffey) got him across well and he just ran a very poor race and he came back in and seemed fine,” McEvoy said. “So I think he might be changing his mind a little bit.” Horse racing news View the full article

Group 1 Thousand Guineas contender, Geegees Mistruth. (Photo by George Salpigtidis/Racing Photos) Tasmanian trainer Stuart Gandy has shared his reasoning for bringing Geegees Mistruth to Victoria for her upcoming run in the Group 1 Thousand Guineas (1600m) at Caulfield this Saturday. The daughter of Wordsmith has proven her consistency, with runner-up finishes in both the Group 3 Quezette Stakes (1100m) and the Group 3 Scarborough Stakes (1200m), along with a third-place result in the Group 2 Thousand Guineas Prelude (1400m). “You always aim to get over here and compete on the big stage,” Gandy told Racing.com. “She showed early days that she had untapped ability—even as a two-year-old, when she was winning, she was doing a lot wrong and still very raw. “I suggested that we bring her over and test the waters, which we did, and she ran a ripping race first-up over here. “She’s stabled in with Mathew Ellerton at Flemington, and I can’t thank Mathew enough, ripping people and great staff. She’s blossomed and definitely matured.” The three-year-old filly heads into the race after a sixth-place finish in the The Vanity (1400m) at Flemington. Gandy remains optimistic about her recent form. “I thought it was a really good run; she was good through the line, she pulled up really well, she pulled up better than the previous run,” he said. “Positive, going up to the mile. She’s going to need a nice, economical run and just get on the back of something and get a nice trail in.” Victory on Saturday would mark a maiden Group 1 win for both Gandy and sire Wordsmith. “That would be the top of the career. It would be a huge privilege,” Gandy said. “I’d be very proud.” Horse racing news View the full article

What Canterbury Races Where Canterbury Park Racecourse – King Street, Canterbury NSW 2193 When Friday, November 15, 2024 First Race 6pm AEDT Visit Dabble Metro racing returns to the bright lights of Canterbury Park Racecourse on Friday evening, with a competitive eight-part program set for decision. The rail is in the true position the entire circuit, and with only light rainfall predicted on Thursday, punters can expect the surface to be rated a Good 4 prior to the opening event at 6pm local time. Best Bet at Canterbury: Kerguelen The James Cummings-trained Kerguelen didn’t miss the frame in four starts last preparation, producing two wins and two more minor placings. The son of Lonhro showed glimpses of a potential stakes level gelding on the rise, flashing home in his latest start behind Invader Zim at Randwick on July 27. His barrier trials suggest he is ready pounce in this first-up assignment, and so long as Nash Rawiller can avoid being a victim of the ‘Canterbury Coffin’ from gate one, Kerguelen should prove hard to hold out. Best Bet Race 6 – #6 Kerguelen (1) 4yo Gelding | T: James Cummings | J: Nash Rawiller (58kg) Bet with Neds Next Best at Canterbury: Cheval Savant Cheval Savant appears set to peak third-up in the campaign after a much-improved effort on the Kensington circuit at Randwick on October 9. The Ciaron Maher-trained gelding lacked race-day fitness on that occasion but battled on gamely to get within 2.3 lengths of Green Belt. Nash Rawiller gets legged aboard from gate three this time around, and with Cheval Savant looking to dictate terms throughout the journey, this guy should give a bold sight at a good price with horse racing bookmakers. Next Best Race 4 – #3 Cheval Savant (3) 5yo Gelding | T: Ciaron Maher | J: Nash Rawiller (57.5kg) Bet with Picklebet Best Value at Canterbury: Point And Shoot The Bjorn Baker-trained Point And Shoot returns after a 166-day spell and appears primed for a first-up assault after undergoing a gelding operation. The son of Blue Point looked switched on at the barrier trials leading into this, careering away to score in his most recent piece of work at Rosehill on October 18. Rachel King will do the steering from barrier eight, and although the pair will be forced to drag back, watch for Point And Shoot to be doing his best work late at an each-way price with Dabble. Best Value Race 1 – #1 Point And Shoot (8) 3yo Gelding | T: Bjorn Baker | J: Rachel King (58.5kg) Bet with Dabble Friday quaddie tips for Canterbury Canterbury quadrella selections November 15, 2024 1-3-7 4-6-8 2-3-4 2-3-5-10 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

First off: East Coast Girl, while from the East, is a boy. Never mind the name, Penn National-based trainer Carl O'Callaghan said Island View Farm's 4-year-old ridgling in Saturday's $100,000 Claiming Crown Ready's Rocket Express is all man.View the full article

By Mike Love Leading northern trainers Barry Purdon and Scott Phelan head to Addington Raceway with a formidable presence in both the Show Day Sires’ Stakes Group 1s. Meant To Be is a $2.25 favourite in the $120,000 IRT Sires’ Stakes Series 2YO Championship (Mobile Trot) at 2.47pm and stablemate Youretheonethatiwant is the top pick ($3.30FF) in the $200,000 Dunstan Sires’ Stakes Series 2YO Pacing Fillies Championship. Meant To Be warmed up with a trial winning effort at Addington last week, beating race rival, the unbeaten Habibti Pat. Trained by Greg and Nine Hope, Habibti Pat is four from four but will have to overcome the outside draw with driver Blair Orange. “She came through the trial really well. Blair was really happy with it and said to me to leave everything as it was,” said Greg Hope. “She’s trained on nicely. But it’s not ideal to draw the outside.” “We are going in hopeful but with them being two-year-olds you never know what could happen.” Promising Phil Williamson-trained filly Atlantic City will be looking to follow in her older sister Empire City’s hoofsteps who won this race last year. Empire City will take her place in the $500,000 Majestic Horse Floats LP THE ASCENT slot race later in the day. The Fillies Championship at 5.02pm has a very even looking line-up, with representation from all over the country, ranging from southern hope, the Nathan Williamson-trained Captains Mistress to northern stablemates Youretheonethatiwant and I’m Sandra Dee, and Hot and Dangerous for Brian and Gareth Hughes. However it is local West Melton trainer Hayden Cullen that lines up three runners who all look to play pivotal roles in the race. Winelight, drawn one and to be driven by Olivia Thornley, has overcome a minor setback after it was discovered she was “crook” after her apparent disappointing performance at Ashburton on Labour Day. “We didn’t pick up on it until after the race as she wasn’t showing any symptoms and it only came up after a scope,” said Cullen. “But she’s good now and I think she’s about back to where she was when she won the Harness Million.” “We are rapt with the draw and looks a likely leader.” If such tactics pull off this could create a merry path for stablemate General Jen and driver Bob Butt who draws behind Winelight and may track an economical run. “On paper the draw may work out really well. She also seems bright and has come through the heat win terrific.” “She suits one run at them so if she can stay handy she’ll be a good chance.” Arafura rounds out the Cullen chances with driver Craig Ferguson and the Sweet Lou filly is not without a motor. After making a mistake at Ashburton on Labour Day she was massive, making up many lengths to finish fourth and only two and a half lengths off the winner. “She lacks ringcraft. But at Ashburton that first corner comes up a bit quick and I think she just got a bit claustrophobic.” “She’s trained on great and might surprise a few.” The other Sires’ Stakes race on the day is the Bob McArdle Sires’ Stakes Southern Mares Classic (Listed). It is set to go at 6.06pm and features the Zachary Butcher trained and driven Mantra Blue, who is a $1.75 favourite to bounce back from her last star fourth at Ashburton. View the full article

After Swayzee and Just Believe’s heroics on Tuesday, the Australians will play a huge role at Addington on Friday as well. In all there will be eight Aussies fronting up, headlined by Just Believe (again) and young trotting sensation Keayang Zahara. Catch A Wave ready to return to winning wins By Adam Hamilton Former Miracle Mile winner Catch A Wave is ready to add to his Group 1 haul in tomorrow’s Allied Security $200,000 Group 1 NZ Free-For-All (1980m) at Addington (7.48pm). On paper, the eight-time Group 1 winner only finished 11th in Tuesday’s Junior Free-for-all, but a deeper look shows he smashed the clock after getting back to last and coming four and five-wide. “We were really happy with him,” trainer Andy Gath said. “We knew we were always up against it from the draw and didn’t want to risk trying to go forward. “His sectional times were fantastic and he just kept getting pushed wider and wider. He covered so much extra ground than everything else.” Backing up quickly has also been a winning formula for Catch A Wave through much of his career. “Most of his big wins have come on the quick back up,” Gath said. “History tells us he’ll be better this time than Tuesday, that’s part of the reason we made the trip over. “Tuesday was all about peaking him for this main target.” Gath has spoken with his wife, Kate, who drives Catch A Wave, about using barrier four to try and lead. “It’s time to press the button. Finding the marker pegs would be a game changer,” he said. “Republican Party will get out well from the one, but so too will The Falcon in two. It might be a case of whether one or both will be happy to trail us. Finding the front is certainly Plan A.” Catch A Wave led throughout to win last year’s Miracle Mile. The five-year-old brilliantly won the huge Nullarbor/Fremantle Cup double in April, but has been struggling to recapture that form since. “Strangely, we put some of that down to racing at Melton. For some reason, he seems to do his best racing away from home,” Gath said. “We’re really happy with how he’s settled in. The run was terrific on Tuesday and a sprint race like this really suits him.” Catch A Wave has been backed from $6 into $4 since Wednesday’s barrier draw. He is one three Aussies in the NZ Free-For-All. The others are Jess Tubbs’ Better Eclipse (gate nine, $10) and Aroda (15, $101). Just Believe looks a sure thing in Trotting Free For All Everything says the “Harry” show will roll-on at Addington on Friday. Still buzzing after winning Tuesday’s $NZ400,000 Group 1 Renwick Farms driver and co-trainer Greg Sugars said Just Believe would be at least as good when he backs up. “He’s come through Tuesday amazingly well, but his resilience and recovery is one of his greatest strengths,” he said. “When he’s backed up in the past, he thrives on it. Look at those past two Inter Dominions. “And he did it easily on Tuesday. It wasn’t a hard run for him. “You’d look at him an hour or so after the race and wouldn’t know he’d gone around.” Just Believe is chasing his 11th Group 1 win and his sixth win from as many starts in NZ on Friday. The rising nine-year-old will then return home to chase more history as the first trotter to win three Inter Dominion finals. Just Believe has gone through the past two Inter Dominions – Melbourne and Brisbane – unbeaten in the heats and finals. He is a dominant favourite to do the same in the NSW series, which starts at Newcastle on November 29. The final is at Menangle on December 14. Keayang Zahara to make eagerly awaited NZ debut There is an exciting synergy to Just Believe and Keayang Zahara flying the Aussie flag at Addington. Many believe unbeaten three-year-old filly Keayang Zahara could be the heir apparent to Just Believe. She is a commanding $1.50 favourite to land her 12th win – and sixth at Group 1 level – in the inaugural $500,000 Majestic Horse Floats LP THE ASCENT (5.36pm). Keayang Zahara is something else. Many say the way she’s blazed to win 11 since she first raced in April has stamped her as the best young trotter Australia has seen. She’s already running times most open-class trotters wouldn’t even get close to. “She’s very exciting, no doubt about it,” driver Jason Lee said. “She’s the best horse our family has had and we’ve had some nice ones go through the place, but she’s the one you dream of getting. The one that makes all the hard work worth it. “But there’s a pressure that goes with it, a pressure we haven’t felt before, because she hasn’t been beaten yet. “It’ll happen one day, just hopefully not when she’s racing for such big money this week.” Keayang Zahara, facing NZ’s best young trotters for the first time, is ideally draw in gate three. “Paddy Lee (co-trainer) and I just can’t fault her. There’s just no reason she won’t bring her best form to the race, albeit it’s all new and her first time away from home. “She’s settled well, she’s eating well, even better than she does at home to be honest, and she felt great when we took her in for a spin around Addington last Saturday.” Despite a lovely barrier, Lee expects the Kiwis to dish it right up to Keayang Zahara. “I’m sure it won’t be as straightforward as some think. Like, I don’t think she’ll just be rolling straight to the front and winning,” he said. “The Kiwis are proud. They don’t like us coming over and winning their big races. They didn’t like Swayzee and Just Believe winning the big two on Cup Day. “They tell me John Dunn (driving Tyron Eros) is going to blast out and try to lead from the outside (gate six) and that the pole marker (Empire City) is a nice trotter and gets out really quickly, too,” he said. “Ideally, I’d love to drive our filly with a sit because she’s so good coming off a helmet, but they’re young trotters and if the chance came to take her to the lead, I’d do that. It’s the safest place to be.” The eight Australians in action on Show Day : Just Believe, One Over All and Arcee Phoenix in the Livamol Group 1 NZ Trotting Free-for-all (4.35pm) Keayang Zahara in the $500,000 Majestic Horse Floats LP THE ASCENT (5.36pm) Hes From Heaven in the $500,000 Hill Lee and Scott THE VELOCITY (6.36pm) Catch A Wave, Better Eclipse and Aroda in the Allied Security Group 1 NZ Pacing Free-for-all (7.48pm) View the full article

Vauban ridden by William Buick on the way to the barriers prior to the running of the 2024 Melbourne Cup at Flemington. (Photo by George Sal/Racing Photos) Vauban is set for another Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m) campaign following his purchase by Australian Bloodstock in partnership with Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott for around A$2 million (£1.02 million). The Willie Mullins-trained stayer will remain in Australia to join the Waterhouse-Bott stable, with hopes of targeting a third attempt at the prestigious Cup. Australian Bloodstock’s Jamie Lovett confirmed the acquisition of Vauban, previously owned by Rich Ricci, on Wednesday. Despite high expectations, the Cheltenham Festival winner delivered underwhelming performances in his previous Melbourne Cup appearances, finishing 14th last year and 11th at Flemington this past week. Initially, Mullins planned to take Vauban back to Ireland for a hurdling campaign, potentially targeting the Stayers’ Hurdle. Instead, the gelding will head for a spell in New South Wales before his transition to Waterhouse and Bott’s care. Vauban boasts a record of eight wins from 21 starts, including five victories on the flat and three over hurdles. His recent form included a runner-up finish to top stayer Kyprios in the Group 1 Irish St Leger at the Curragh. “He was an obvious horse for down here, and we had the opportunity to team up with Gai and Adrian, and he’s not one that is hard to identify,” Lovett told the Nick Luck Daily podcast. “I’ve always been very forgiving of any horse that comes down and doesn’t always perform off the aircraft as it’s not easy to do. “We’re just hoping we can have him return to the form he showed in the northern hemisphere last season, and we’re excited to see what lies ahead.” Lovett acknowledged Mullins’ adept handling of Vauban, emphasizing the horse’s quality despite his current Group 2 status. “Willie placed him beautifully up there last season, and he’s a high-quality horse, but he arrives here as a Group 2 winner. “So even in the handicaps, he could show up in a number of races in the Sydney autumn, and then the Melbourne Cup is the goal. “He’s had two tries at it, so he’s going to have to defy history a third time around, but we feel very confident he’s the right horse.” Horse racing news View the full article

Emerging filly Costae(NZ) (Ribchester) has taken the rarest of avenues to the Gr.1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton, where she will bid to deliver a dream result for a new ownership group. The daughter of Ribchester successfully progressed through a poly-track path before an impressive last-start victory at Ellerslie to book her place in Saturday’s Barneswood Farm-sponsored Classic. Trained by Shaune Ritchie and Colm Murray, Costae placed in her first two runs on the Cambridge Synthetic track before she won on the Awapuni all-weather. “She was purchased by OTI Racing earlier this week after she came on (agent) Phill Cataldo’s radar after her win at Palmerston North and then at Ellerslie,” Ritchie said. “She will run in OTI’s colours, and it will come down to her performance whether she stays for the Karaka Millions (Listed, 1600m) or transfers to an Australian trainer. “The original owners, including myself, have kept small shares in her.” Costae’s road to Riccarton via a predominantly synthetic build-up was largely determined by the weather. “It’s unusual form for a Group One, apart from her last start, and to be honest I think both Guineas fields may have suffered through wet tracks through the spring,” Ritchie said. “We weren’t comfortable running her on heavy tracks and we’ve got a poly track in our back yard, so it was easier to run her there. “The Pearl Series bonus was why she went to Manawatu, and she was quite dominant in that race. “We didn’t think she was just a poly horse, the way the bonuses set up it was financially more favourable to run her in those races.” Costae subsequently continued her winning trot on the turf with her last start defeat of a handy age group line-up. “We were a little bit cocky when we ran her at Ellerslie and felt she would run a much better race than her form lines would suggest and so it happened,” Ritchie said. “She has come on in leaps and bounds, she’s been interesting and puts herself in the race and she’s drawn a favourable gate (one). “You’d assume she will get the run of the race with a bit of natural gate speed and if it plays like everybody’s map, she’ll follow the favourite (Alabama Lass) and will get every chance. “The only problem with barrier one might be a bit of wear and tear on the rail after two days of racing, but in saying that the track has raced terrific.” The stable will also have a strong chance in Saturday’s northern feature with Pearl Of Alsace in the Gr.2 Gartshore Tauranga Stakes (1600m). The Tavistock mare is coming off midfield finishes in the Gr.1 Livamol Classic (2040m) and the Gr.1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m). “We informed the stewards that she was served by Proisir two weeks ago and she’s walking around the place like she owns the joint, so hopefully that sort of attitude goes into the race on Saturday,” Ritchie said. “I thought her last run was really good, she was wide and had to work hard and was in front halfway down the straight, it was better than it reads on paper.” Pride Of Alsace’s main goal is the TAB Mufhasa Classic (Gr.1, 1600m) at Trentham in three weeks’ time. “These two races set up nicely for her, this one will top her off, but she is ready to go and we are expecting her to be hard to beat.” Meanwhile, promising stablemate Tuxedo will also be in action at Trentham on Friday in the JR & N Berkett 3YO (1400m) after making a winning debut at Te Aroha. “He’s a big strider and needs a long straight, I think he’s a pretty serious horse and will end up a nice stayer in the autumn and is certainly one to watch when he gets up over more ground,” Ritchie said. View the full article

New Plymouth trainer Allan Sharrock is pleased he made a late change to the spring itinerary of Ladies Man(NZ) (Zed), who will now line up in the Gr.2 Gartshore Tauranga Stakes (1600m) on Saturday. The winner of seven of his 29 starts headed by the Gr.1 Livamol Classic (2040m) at Hastings last year, Ladies Man was originally entered for the Gr.3 Thompson Handicap (1600m) at Trentham on October 27. However, his rating of 105 would have seen him carry 60kg in that event while most of his rivals had 53kg or 54.5kg. Sharrock eventually decided to scratch the seven-year-old Zed gelding from the Thompson and redirect him to Saturday’s $150,000 feature at Tauranga, which is run under weight-for-age conditions. “Weight-for-age suits him much better than the Thompson would have under that weight, and especially on a Trentham track that was very heavy and became quite arduous,” the New Plymouth trainer said. “I think we pulled the right rein in the end. “He won a jump out last week and worked brilliantly on Tuesday. He can cope with a bit of rain, so I won’t be too worried if they get some of that in Tauranga leading into the race. “Safely through this, we’ll look to step him back up to Group One level for the Captain Cook Stakes (Gr.1, 1600m) and then the Zabeel Classic (Gr.1, 2000m).” The Captain Cook Stakes is now known as the TAB Mufhasa Classic and will be run at Trentham on December 7, while the Zabeel Classic is back at its traditional home of Ellerslie on Boxing Day after two years at Pukekohe. Sharrock’s other entry at Tauranga on Saturday is the admirably consistent mare Sumi, who looks well placed to continue her strong run of form in the Laser Plumbing Waihi Beach (1400m). Sharrock also has a well-credentialled contingent heading to Trentham on Friday, headed by the blue-blooded and highly talented Lazio. The Per Incanto gelding is a half-brother to elite Hong Kong sprinter Lucky Sweynesse and has shown a glimpse of that family ability in a six-start career to date. He has recorded four wins and two placings, and his wins have come in all of his last four starts. Lazio was a maiden winner at New Plymouth in early June, then won a Rating 65 at Otaki on June 28, an open handicap at Te Rapa on September 15 and another open handicap at Trentham on October 27. The five-year-old will attempt to extend his winning sequence to five in Friday’s The Breeze Wellington (1100m), in which Rihaan Goyaram’s 3kg claim will reduce his weight to 55kg. “He’s a lovely horse,” Sharrock said. “He’s a beautiful animal, a big strong fella. If it hadn’t been for his knee issues, he’d be a Group horse without a shadow of a doubt. “We’re just managing him the best we can and keeping him on rain-affected tracks. This will be his last run this preparation. I’m hoping he can sign off on a high. “He’s been terrific since his last start win. He’s pretty straightforward and only wants to please you, even though he sometimes finds it hard. He’s a bit of a character, old George, as we call him. I don’t think we could have him any better heading into the race this week.” Sharrock’s other runners at Trentham on Friday are promising filly Librero in the JR & N Berkett 3YO (1400m) and last-start winner Swingit Our Way in the Gee & Hickton (2100m). View the full article

Tested by the travails of a challenging season, Jamie Richards combined with Zac Purton to end a frustrating run of outs at Happy Valley on Wednesday night (13 November) with a rare piece of good fortune before the last three races of the meeting were abandoned because of weather-related safety considerations. Richards ended a 47-race run of outs when Lucky Touch(NZ) (Sweynesse) landed the second section of the Class 4 Lung Cheung Handicap (1650m) – the second race on the card – before Hong Kong Jockey Club officials decided to abandon Races 7, 8 and 9 after the Hong Kong Observatory announced it would issue Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 at 11.10pm. Acting to ensure the safety of trainers, jockeys, stable staff, Members, racecourse staff and attendees and Off-Course Betting Branch staff and customers, officials stopped the meeting after the running of race six. Richards had not saddled a winner since Gallant Valour’s triumph at Happy Valley on 9 October and the New Zealander was relieved to saddle his second victor of the campaign. “It’s been a bit of a slow start for the stable, the horses have been running well without winning but the team is working hard and hopefully we can go on with it from here,” Richards said. “Zac gave him a beautiful ride and he was able to get across and get into a nice position. “He’s a horse that hasn’t had a lot of luck through his career so far, but hopefully he can get a bit of confidence from tonight and keep going on. He just hadn’t been having a lot of luck at Sha Tin and last season he trialled very well here, so we thought it was worth trying something different with him. Thankfully it worked. I’m hopeful the horse can keep improving.” Richards has had two winners, eight seconds and seven thirds from 89 starters this season, having posted 35 and 31 wins, respectively, across his first two campaigns. While Richards was grateful, the endlessly ambitious Purton was philosophical after closing the abridged meeting with a double, scoring narrowly on Frankie Lor’s Circuit Duffy in the first section of the Class 4 Lei Yue Mun Handicap (1200m). “I feel a bit stiff not to have four winners, but two is good – it keeps the ball rolling,” Purton said, alluding to possible missed opportunities in the abandoned races. The Australian now boasts 1,775 wins in Hong Kong as he closes in on Douglas Whyte’s all-time record of 1,813. Vincent Ho took his career tally of wins in Hong Kong to 599 when Happy Daily clinched the first section of the Class 4 Lung Cheung Handicap (1650m) for Dennis Yip before Mark Newnham and Luke Ferraris continued their burgeoning partnership with Street Conqueror’s victory in the third section of the Class 4 Lei Yeu Mun Handicap (1200m). “The season is ticking over nicely, going at a nice high strike rate and I’m just trying to keep that going,” said Ferraris, who has 10 wins for the season, including six in tandem with Newnham. “This horse was really good tonight. He had a nice soft draw (barrier one) and he was able to pop out and get into his rhythm and I just had to wake him up when the timing was right and he quickened up nicely and put the race to bed.” Hoping to strike with champion Romantic Warrior in the HK$5.35 million G2 BOCHK Jockey Club Cup (2000m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (17 November), Danny Shum scored with Champion Method in the Class 4 Hung Luen Handicap (1000m) under a superb ride by Andrea Atzeni. Seemingly under pressure on the fence well into the straight, Champion Method was angled into the middle of the track by Atzeni and surged late to overall Lean Master by a neck. Hong Kong International Sale graduate Kingly Demeanor made it two wins in a row for Tony Cruz with an all-the-way success in the Class 5 Ngau Chi Wan Handicap (2200m) under Keith Yeung. Winless in his first 11 starts, the Oasis Dream gelding has struck form with a vengeance this month. Hong Kong racing continues at Sha Tin on Sunday (17 November) with Bank of China (Hong Kong) Race Day. View the full article

On a quiet Saturday in mid-November, falling between the Nov. 1-2 Breeders' Cup and stakes activity late in the month, only two graded stakes are to be contested Nov. 16 in North America, both worth CA$175,000 at Woodbine.View the full article

The Keeneland November Breeding Stock Sale concluded its nine-day run in Lexington Wednesday with vibrant trade from a diverse buying bench leading to across-the-board increases where were highlighted by a new sales record median. “Overall, this was a very strong, fair market from start to finish,” Keeneland Vice President of Sales Tony Lacy said. “Book 1 gross jumped nearly 15% from last year with a much-improved clearance rate and that momentum powered the sale through the final days.” For the nine days, 2,158 horses sold for $196,442,900. The average of $91,030 was up 7.03% from a year ago, while the median of $40,000 was up 25.00% and broke the auction's previous record of $37,000 set in 2021. The buy-back rate was 16.49%. Those figures include 108 post-sale transactions which grossed $8,885,500 for an average of $82,273 and a median of $50,000. “The market at this November sale has been very good from the get-go,” said Keeneland Senior Director of Sales Operations Cormac Breathnach. “Book 1 was very strong. We were up about $8 million [in gross] and our clearance rate was a lot higher. But more than that, it's just been very satisfying day by day with the level of trade and the number of horses changing hands in a productive manner.” During last year's November sale, 2,221 horses sold for $188,891,000 for an average of $85,048 and a median of $32,000. Those figures include 93 post-sale transactions–led by the auction's $2.9-million top price–for a post-sale average of $132,473 and median of $55,000. Twelve horses sold for seven figures last year, compared to nine this year, led by the $2.4-million Roses for Debra (Liam's Map), who was purchased by Whisper Hill Farm from the Candy Meadows Sales consignment. “We're not the biggest consignment and to have a sale topper is very special for [Candy Meadows owner and Keeneland Trustee] Everett Dobson, with his involvement with Keeneland and the industry,” said Matt Lyons, Senior Vice President and COO of Candy Meadows Farm, which sold 11 horses for $3,068,000. “It was also very special for John O'Meara, who is our partner in Roses for Debra and who I've known for a long time. It was a great thrill.” The November sale included dispersals from Ed Seltzer's Solera Farm, Stuart S. Janney, III, Siena Farm and the late John Hendrickson. “It's always a bittersweet moment with dispersals, but it's equally encouraging to think another wave of people are coming through now who believe Thoroughbred racing and breeding are good, viable activities,” Lacy said. “As we look at results, we see new people buying farms, buying mares to stock their properties and reinvesting in the sport. That is really encouraging because that's Keeneland's mission statement: to support the industry and the market.” Median, Buy-Back Rate Prove Strength of Market The Keeneland November median was a sales-record $40,000, breaking the previous mark of $37,000 was set in 2021. The record median, coupled with a buy-back rate of 16.49%, were proof of strength throughout the market, according to Breathnach. “The median rose at most sessions compared to last year,” Breathnach said. “And the RNA rate is a point or two lower across the board. That really just shows that there is strength and that these horses are marketable and there is a buyer base to pick them up at a very high rate.” While the median fell during the one-session Book 1 and was unchanged during the first session of Book 2, it increased for sessions three through nine and was up by double digits in sessions three, four, five, seven and nine. “That's the barometer of the health of the market that we always come back to,” Breathnach said. “The averages, as I've said many times, are great for headlines, but year to year, when you are looking at how the sales compares, looking at the median and the RNA rate will give you a much more objective view point. So in that sense, we are very pleased.” The buy-back rate fell six of the nine sessions and before concluding at 16.49%, compared to 18.5% a year ago. “During about 45 minutes [Tuesday] we had one RNA,” Lacy said. “I think at the end of the day, our RNA rate was less than 12%. What is perceived as the lower end of the market, there is very strong demand.” Todd Quast, Antony Beck, Mandy Pope, Brian Graves | Keeneland Whisper Hill Secures Another Sales Topper Mandy Pope's Whisper Hill Farm, which purchased the $5-million sale topper at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale two months ago, returned to take the top-price at the Keeneland November sale with the $2.4-million Roses for Debra (Liam's Map). Whisper Hill teamed with Gainesway to take home the auction's co-second highest-priced mare, the $1.8-million Lady Tapit (Tapit). Pope's operation was the auction's leading buyer, with 13 purchased for $6,635,000. The partnership of Whisper Hill and Gainesway was the fourth-leading buyer at the sale, with seven purchased for $2,700,000. For the 27th time since 1987, Taylor Made Sales Agency was the November sale's leading consignor. Taylor Made sold 323 horses for $32,859,600. “We're the only consignor that sells in every session in November. In every session of this sale, our gross has been higher than the year before,” Taylor Made President and CEO Mark Taylor said. “Book 1 was significantly higher. And our number of horses through the ring is on par with last year. The two dispersals kind of buoyed those numbers, but every session has been better than the corresponding session last year, so I think it just shows strength.” Diverse Buying Bench The top 12 highest-priced horses at the Keeneland November sale were purchased by 10 different interests. Japanese buyers were strong at the top of the market, but they were joined throughout the nine-day auction by Australian, European and Middle Eastern buyers. “I am always pleased with the international recruiting that Keeneland does, especially for the second half of the sale” said Gray Lyster of Ashview Farm. “There was plenty of international presence. We have always had strong European presence, but the Australian presence was fantastic, and the Japanese have been coming for decades and seem to be stronger year after year. The globalization of the market has been great.” John Sikura, whose Hill 'n' Dale at Xalapa sold 141 horses for $14,050,900, said, “We had a fantastic sale. It is a reinforcement of the market reality which is that elite mares with race records covered by the right sires are attributes highly coveted by international buyers and results were significant across the board.” Buyers from emerging racing markets which primarily compete on dirt surfaces are attracted to the American product, according to Lacy. “The fruits of our labor, going out and recruiting international buyers and buyers from other domestic regional areas has really started to pay off,” Lacy said. “We have been doing it for decades, but when we go out there and encourage people to come here and to spend, if you look at the results sheet, it's really encouraging to see developing breeding programs around the world that they are coming here to source their bloodstock. American pedigrees are highly sought after. We are the major sellers of dirt pedigrees in the world. That's what the American breed has been primarily focused on and a lot of the evolving jurisdictions are racing on dirt, whether primarily or as a secondary surface.” $900,000 sale-topping weanling | Keeneland First-Crop Sires Dominate Competitive Foal Market A colt by Into Mischief consigned by Taylor Made Sales Agency was the top-priced weanling at the Keeneland November sale, bringing a final bid of $900,000 from Glen Hill Farm. The youngster was one of 11 to sell for $400,000 or more. Through nine sessions, 860 weanlings sold at the 2024 November sale for a gross of $63,110,200. The average of $73,384 increased 4.03% from a year ago, while the median rose 14.29% to $40,000. During the 2023 November sale, 804 weanlings sold for an average of $70,539 and a median of $35,000. A colt by Gun Runner was the auction's top-priced weanling when selling for $750,000. That colt was one of 19 to sell for $400,000 or more. “The weanling market has been really, really healthy the last couple years,” Lacy said. “The pinhookers who have been very successful over the last number of years, they were very strong this year. They were competing against each other in many cases. I think anybody who was on the selling side was very pleased. If they had a horse who passed the vet and had the athleticism they wanted, they were getting a premium for them. It was great to see the breeders getting the return on their investments.” Breathnach added, “Some major weanling buyers said they struggled to buy yearlings, and so some of these top-priced weanlings went to end users too, which is a healthy sign.” Thirteen of the top 20 selling weanlings were by first-crop sires. Leading the way by average was Flightline, who had four weanlings sell for an average of $412,500, followed by Life is Good with eight averaging $325,625 and Jackie's Warrior with 12 sold for an average of $175,833. “The first-crop sires this year are particularly strong–they are always popular at the market–but there was great depth,” Breathnach said. “Thirteen of the top 20 weanlings were by first-crop sires and six first-crop sires were represented in that group. So there is a lot of promise in that class of stallions and it was reflected well here.” Cherry Knoll Farm–a major player in the weanling-to-yearling pinhooking market–was the leading buyer of weanlings at the auction, with nine purchased for $1,760,000. Tyson Leads Book 5 Finale A pair of offerings sold for six figures during Wednesday's final session of the nine-day auction. Multiple graded stakes winner Tyson (Tapit) (hip 3398) brought a final bid of $175,000 from Ed Price, agent, in the sale's final minutes. The 5-year-old stallion prospect was a two-time graded winner over Woodbine's synthetic surface and was third in last year's GI Jockey Club Gold Cup at Saratoga. He was consigned by Hill 'n' Dale at Xalapa. A colt from the first crop of Grade I winner Speaker's Corner (hip 3164) was the top-priced weanling of Wednesday's session. Consigned by Hunter Valley Farm, he was purchased for $135,000 by Hyde Park Racing. During the two-session Book 5 section, 454 horses sold for $6,115,900, The average of $13,471 was up 20.98% from a year ago and the median of $9,000 was up 12.50%. Those figures include seven post-sale transactions for $19,000, an average of $2,714 and a median of $1,000. During last year's Book 5 section, Keeneland sold 524 horses for a gross of $5,834,500 for an average of $11,135 and a median of $8,000. Those figures include 11 post sales for a gross of $123,500, an average of $11,227 and a median of $6,000. 'Something for Everybody:' Horses of Racing Age Sale Thursday As the nine-day November Breeding Stock Sale concludes, the action at Keeneland will shift to horses of racing age with a one-session auction beginning at noon Thursday. The 237 catalogued lots include something for everyone, according to Lacy. “It's what we internally refer to as a transfer portal, to put it in NCAA terms, where horses are able to move into the areas where they need to be for the winter program,” Lacy said. “The timing is perfect, between Oaklawn, Fair Grounds, Florida and California, as well as other racing areas. It's a great opportunity for people to restock and, whether it's a starter allowance level or up through allowance and stakes level, there is something for everybody in every price range.” Racing programs set the table for the rest of the commercial market, Breathnach said. “Obviously, the racing and the purses are what drives a lot of the economic benefits that we are seeing at the yearling and breeding stock sales,” he said. “There have been a lot of inquiries and a lot of international markets that are perusing the catalogue and asking a lot of questions. We will see how we get on tomorrow.” The post ‘Very Good from the Get-Go:’ Keeneland November Sale Concludes with Record Median appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

In December, trainer Richard Sillaman claimed Freedom Road for $8,000 with co-owners Nick Peters and James Rashid. Eleven months later, he enters the $100,000 Claiming Crown Iron Horse at Churchill Downs Nov. 16 riding a seven-race win streak.View the full article

When bloodstock agent David Ingordo bought Zenyatta (Street Cry {Ire}) for just $60,000 out of the 2005 Keeneland September Sale he probably thought he had found that once-in-a-lifetime horse. Little did he know that the 2010 Horse of the Year, who was admitted to the Hall of Fame in 2016, might not be his very best purchase. Fourteen years after he discovered Zenyatta, he picked out Flightline (Tapit), paying $1 million for the future superstar. There was nothing coincidental about any of these selections. Over the years, Ingordo has solidified his reputation as one of the best in his business. He's also involved with industry issues and has served as a key member of HISA's Horsemen's Advisory Group. Last but not least, he is also married to trainer Cherie DeVaux, who just won her first Breeders' Cup race. To talk Zenyatta, Flighline, HISA and so much more much, Ingordo was this week's Guest of the Week on the TDN's Writers' Room Podcast presented by Keeneland. “Along with Bill Farish, I was invited out to the farm of his breeder, Jane Lyon, in what was Flightline's yearling year,” Ingordo said. “We were there to look at another yearling by Tapit, Triple Tap. He was a half to American Pharaoh. I liked the horse, that is Flightline better. I kind of said something under my breath and Bill Farish kicked me. He said 'look at the other horse, that's who we came out to see.' We got back in the car and I said, 'for what it's worth, I like the bay one.' The other horse was a chestnut. So we went out there several times over the next several months and I kept liking the other horse. “And when we went to Saratoga, they still had the Tex Sutton plane,” said Ingordo. “I got in the back of the plane and one of the attendants said, 'hey, these are all yearlings in the back and it's going to get bumpy.' So I put a shank on one. I'm petting a horse, and he had the name on his halter. It was Flightline. So when we got there Bill said, 'there's the horse you like.' I said, let's buy him' and we put something together and the rest is history. And to answer your question, I think we were just getting started when we bid and we got fortunate that at a million dollars the bidding stopped.” It's no surprise that Ingordo believes that Flightline will become a superior sire. He just purchased the first Flightline foal to come to auction at the Fasig-Tipton November Sale for $675,000. “I like it when a stallion stamps his offspring because the whole point of a stallion is to dominate,” he said. “We're hoping that those genes that made him such a great racehorse come through in the offspring. So I like the fact that [his weanligs] look like him. If you give them a mare, he seems to dominate the mare. Whether she's a small mare or big mare, he seems to impart the Flightline look on them. “I'd seen that foal that we bought on the farm,” Ingordo said. “He was raised here at Lane's End. He was one of the top ones I saw. And then there were several others we tried to bid on. There was another beautiful filly that scratched that I thought was as good a horse as a weanling that I've seen all year, whether at a sale or privately on farms. The thing about Flightline I like, and liked about the foal we bought, was that he's stamping them and this one reminded me a lot of Flightline at that stage of his life.” And what did he see that he liked in Zenyatta? “Zenyatta was a yearling and I actually still have the catalogue, saved with my notes in it,” Ingordo said. “I like buying horses that match their trainers. It is a lot like recruiting for any sports team. If you have a certain kind of offense, you need a certain kind of player. That year I was buying horses for Mr. [Jerry] Moss that were to go to John Shirreffs. Zenyatta looked like a John Shirreffs horse. I fell in love with her. “I can say now because the breeder has passed away, but we had a lot more money for Zenyatta than 60 grand,” he said. “And I told [Zenyatta's breeder] Eric Kronfeld that one time over a couple of bourbons. We really had more money earmarked for her. It was meant to be. There's Zenyatta and I never thought it would get better than that. Now there's Flightline, but you know, Zenyatta was my first. She holds a special place in my heart and in my career.” In our breeding spotlight section we looked at the Winstar stallion Life is Good (Into Mischief). Elsewhere on the podcast, which is also sponsored by the Pennsylvania Horse Breeders' Association, West Point Thoroughbreds, WinStar and XBTV.com, the team of Zoe Cadman, Bill Finley and Randy Moss took a look at some of the Eclipse Award races that are expected to be close, including the one between Fierceness (City of Light) and Sierra Leone (Gun Runner) for the 3-year-old male championship. All three hosts went for Sierra Leone. It was also noted that both are expected to run next year, which is a very welcome development for the sport. Moss also pointed out that the head-on shots of the Breeders' Cup races were never made available for public consumption. To watch the Writers' Room, click here. To view the show as a podcast, click here. The post David Ingordo Joins TDN Writers’ Room Podcast appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The 6-year-old Instit (Fr) (Saint Des Saints {Fr}) topped the fourth and final day of the Tattersalls Ireland November National Hunt Sale at Fairyhouse on Wednesday. Consigned by Neilstown Stud, lot 847 brought €125,000 from Will Kinsey of Peel Bloodstock, one of three lots to break the six-figure mark on the day. In foal to Walk In The Park (Ire), the sale's overall topper who was placed at listed level over hurdles, won a listed chase at Fairyhouse and was also second in the G2 Glencarraig Lady Mares Chase twice at Punchestown. “Like the foal we purchased earlier today [Lot 821] she is for a partnership with my brother-in-law Richard Burton,” said Kinsey. “We have also got a few partners who are new into breeding, all fellow former amateur riders, it is a bit of an ex-amateur riders' syndicate. “Again she is a rare sort, a Saint des Saints broodmare–I have not got one and have been trying to buy one for a long time. She is going back to Richard's from here and we have to make some plans for her next covering, luckily, there are lots of good options in the UK now.” A pair of colt foals earlier in the day shared the highest foal price of €110,000, the top price given for a foal at this sale since 2021. First was a son of No Risk At All (Fr) and Zarkareva (Fr) (Authorized {Ire}) (lot 673) from Coolmara Stables, Ltd. He was knocked down to NBB Racing and is from the family of undefeated Arc heroine Zarkava (Ire) (Zamindar). “It is expensive coming here,” said NBB Racing's Nicolas Bertran de Balanda. “He has been bought for owner Sofiane Benaroussi, who is building a team in France and the colt is going to race in France.” De Balanda added, “This is a very good first foal, by a top stallion, and he has a great pedigree. He is probably going to be a tall horse and we will need to give him a bit of time. Sofiane is buying a lot of very good young stock and is going to have a nice team in France moving forward.” The second foal to reach that price was lot 774, a son of Saint Des Saints from the Clonmult Farm draft. Named Saint Of Saints (Fr), he went the way of Jerry McGrath. He is a half-brother to Kapkiline (Fr) (Kapgarde {Fr}), who has won at listed level over hurdles and was third in the G1 Prix Ferdinand Dufaure Chase. “He has been bought to race in France,” said McGrath. “He is for a client who will probably bring in a few friends now as he cost a bit more than we expected. He is a lovely colt, and Saint des Saints does not need any explaining. “I am spending a lot of time now in France and have seen Olympic Story (Fr) (Masked Marvel {GB}), who is out of the half-sister, she is the best three-year-old filly racing in France.” McGrath added, “He won't be gelded–the dream will be to keep him as an entire, and if he gets to the required level of form we might be able to retire him to stud in France.” A total of 22 foals made €50,000 or higher, with 40 marked as sold for €40,000 or more. The leading consignor was Ballincurrig House Stud, with Michael Moore's operation grossing €601,500 for 25 lots sold. After four sessions, the sale grossed €7,894,900 for 481 lots sold (60%), down 26% on last year's total. The average dropped 7% to €16,414, while the median was €11,000 (-8%). Tattersalls Ireland CEO Simon Kerins said, “After four days of trading there were positives to extract from this week's sale, with two foals selling for €110,000 today, while the black type mare Instit, saw her top the sale, at €125,000. “Whilst there has been sustained demand for what the market sees as commercially attractive foals, the selective nature of the National Hunt market is clear to see and has been evident throughout the year at other National Hunt sales. “We recognise that a percentage of foals failed to meet what the market requires, and we empathise with consignors that found this week a challenge and despite a smaller catalogue we still witnessed a slight drop in the clearance rate on last year's sale. That said there were vendors who attained excellent prices and went away satisfied with their results. It was also encouraging to see buyers drawn to a broader range of stallions, with the progeny of six different stallions among the top 10 purchases. “It was pleasing to have an increased presence from UK buyers over the four days, while both of our top priced foals have been purchased to race in France. “We would like to thank our vendors for their support and to wish all our purchasers well with their new acquisitions, and we look forward to seeing those foals bought this week returning to the Tattersalls Ireland sales ring in the future or excelling on the racetrack.” The post Saint Des Saints Mare Tops Final Day Of Tattersalls Ireland November NH Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

What was worth noting from all over the country for the week ending 14/11/2024 Princess Gracy (2f Sweet Lou – Princess Jessie) Tr. Z Butcher Pukekohe (7/11/24) In front soon after the start of this qualifier, always going well, sprinted sharply to leave her rivals in her wake, off stride very late when well clear and because of this, did not get her ticket even though she was nearly 8 secs under the required time. MR:2:01.3, 800m in 59.8, 400m in 27.6. First foal of a well bred mare who won two in a short career and this filly definitely looks like a positive race prospect. Kevin Kline (2g Always B Miki – Matai Mies) TR. R Green For the second week in a row, the Green-trained runner impressed, settled fourth of 6 but not for long as he improved 1400m to take over, kept up strong run to win untouched. MR:2:02.3, 800m in 57.6, 400m in 27.0. Breeding previously touched on, two race day starts, the last back in early August. No question he is going to be better again this time in and definitely one to follow. Stablemate and early pacemaker Debbie Lincoln off stride at the 400m when looking to take issue and lost any chance it might have had. Con Grazia Love (5m Love You – Con Grazia) Tr. S McCaffrey Began nicely to lead only rival (Lord Popinjay), always going well, stretched out in fine style to suggest she has come back in fine fettle. Last 800m in 58.8, 400m in 27.8. Five-win mare who hasn’t started since May but her race record has always indicated she is a mare well above average. Should be in for a rewarding time in the north if she can replicate this workout effort. Major Burns (3c Art Major – Grace Burns) Tr. K Green Winton (8/11/24) Previously mentioned in this forum as a horse to follow when unqualified, the Green trained runner only had the one rival in this qualifier and after going to the front from barrier rise, only did what he had to do to get his ticket, but easily under the required time. Last 800m in 60.5, 400m in 30.2. Still looks a work in progress but not short on raw ability and should add to the long list of winners for southern owner Tom Kilkelly. Raspalia (2f Johny Rock – Fun Sponge) Tr. T Dewe Gate speed to lead, still there final turn, didn’t flinch when others challenged late. MR:2:03.2, 800m in 60.4, 400m in 28.9. Just the one start back in August when fifth of 5 but likely to be an improved horse this time in, worth looking out for on this effort. Another in the Kilkelly ownership. The well performed Always Dreaming made good ground from the rear to dispute placings, not knocked about with some big targets coming up. Bring On The Muscle (3g Majestic Son – Mass Invasion) Tr. C Barron Got to trail in a non winners pace, used passing lane to challenge, found one better in stablemate and pacemaker Always On Sale. Last 800m in 58.8, 400m in 29.3. Hambletonian winner at last start and looks primed for big effort in his big assignment on the Friday of cup week. Track conditions far from favourable in this heat. Amazon Annie raced fourth of 5, caught eye very late punching through the middle only to be denied racing room last 100m and went to the line under ‘double wraps’. Lightly raced (3x), the last back in May but bred to be above average (dam won 6) and certainly one to paste away in the black book. Just Like Jagger (2f Vincent – Machjagger) Tr. K Green Settled third in this learners pace before improving to lead 1500m, skipped away final turn. Officially 4L clear at the line, overall time not flash (but run in driving rain), Last 800m in 58.7, 400m in 29.7. First foal from a five-win mare who interestingly was by Justa Tiger (C Cullen – Tigerish). Obviously not qualified yet but showing plenty of promise going forwards. Still Rockin (6g A Rocknroll Dance – Insar) Tr. R Gutsell Wyndham (9/11/24) Gate speed to lead, always going freely, cruised clear in straight for an impressive win. MR:2:04.6, 800m in 58.0. Has done a good job winning the seven races and that winning CV might not be finished just yet. Another southerner who might come to Addington for the ‘South of the Waitaki’ race at Addington Always B Paulie (3g Always B Miki – Bubba Ho Tep) Tr. C Ferguson Very slow to go behind mobile and subsequently settled fifth of 5, still well back 400m, picked rivals up with ease down outer and ran on by for an impressive win. MR:2:06.5, 800m in 58.8, 400m in 28.6. Qualified back in May but as yet unraced, the race day debut will be well worth the wait based on this effort. Dam won 4 and her first two foals have become handy winning horses. Kaipaki Jack (5g Love You – Riviera Lass) Tr J Teaz Cambridge (9/11/24) Away best to lead three rivals, still there final turn, just able to stall off So Mystifying who put plenty of dash into her finish. MR:2:08.2, 800m in 60.4, 400m in 29.2. Jack looked full of promise on occasions during his last campaign (2 wins from 9 starts) but not sighted since late May, should be a natural improver. So Mystifying has only won the one race in a short career but she has plenty of breeding to suggest that her record can be enhanced upon, 1 to follow in her own grade Major Break (3f Art Major – Fleeting Moment) Tr. J Teaz Straight to the front, set terms, kicked final turn and did enough to keep rivals at bay. MR:2:03.4, 800m in 60.0, 400m in 29.1. Another from the stable getting ready for a new campaign, just the one win from 7 starts but thereabouts in many of the others, should be better again this time in. Gifted Brigade made good ground final 200m for a closing third. Qualified back in June but as yet unraced. First foal from a family that the Neals have had much success with. Pepper Franco (3f Always B Miki – Pepper Potts) Tr. B Waldron Methven 9/11/24 (grass) Streeted 3 rivals in this qualifying trial on the grass, officially by 12 1/2L at the line, 5 secs under qualifying time. MR:2:12.0, 800m in 62.0, 400m in 30.1. Dam did a good job winning six and her first two foals both winners with Parker (7 wins + $94k) more than handy. Plenty of breeding behind the filly as well (2nd dam won 9 + $183k) and breeder Spreydon Lodge have retained the ownership. Time has been her friend. Times Like These (2g Always B Miki – Bird Of Paradise) Tr. B Ward Recent qualifier warming up for a debut at Ashburton today (Thursday), showed resilience to outpoint Lonnekers (pulled up in only raceday start) and they were well clear of the other three runners MR:2:12.3, 800m in 60.3. First foal from a tough mare who won 13 races + $120k. This family has been consistently successful for trainer Barry Ward especially on the grass tracks Father Time (3g Father Patrick – Firenze) Tr. K Townley Not extended in 10 horse heat to re-establish his credentials for major assignments coming up, always in control, way too good, officially by 10L at the line. MR:2:15.0, 800m in 63.2, 400m in 31.6. Gearing up for the big dance this Friday where he has drawn the front line, mistake maker last time out in the Hambletonian but dealt to many of his rivals the start before, real threat to Aussie star Keayang Zahara especially after this trial. Live On Legend (5g A Rocknroll Dance – A Legend) Tr. K Austin Lightly raced gelding too strong for 6 rivals, powered away final stages (last 400m) and clearly superior at the line, officially by 6L. MR:2:16.5, 800m in 60.6, 400m in 28.5. Freshened since last racing late September, the winner of five who has established a handy race record, deserves respect when lining up next. Royal Grace (4m Royal Aspirations – Commander Del) Tr. M Palermo Only the two rivals, always going well, had no bother getting clear final 200m. MR:2:14.3, 800m in 62.3, 400m in 30.1. Showed promise last time in (from 3 starts), last start early August and definitely looks better than a maiden. Full sister to Royal Del (10 wins + $121k), Grace just the second foal from the mare Itsallaboutthemoney (3f Vincent – Itz All About Me) Tr. S Boyd Again a small heat with just the three runners, the Boyd-trained runner capitalised on an economic trip, too strong over the final stages, nearly 9 secs under qualifying time. (all 3 qualified). MR:2:05.9, 800m in 61.3, 400m in 31.0. Dam has already left 5 winners, is a half to 6 winners herself including Itz Cherry Ripe (9 NZ wins +4156k) and the trainer owns this one himself! To see previous Trials Reports click here View the full article

By Mike Love Canterbury junior driver Carter Dalgety will have to come down from cloud nine after Republican Party went a huge race to finish third in Tuesday’s IRT New Zealand Trotting Cup at Addington Raceway. “I’m over the moon – he ran a thriller. He seems really bright too so he’s come through it super,” said Dalgety. Dalgety is only the second junior driver to have placed in the New Zealand Cup. Dalgety’s friend and mentor Dexter Dunn being the only other junior to achieve that with Bettors Strike, also for Cran Dalgety, finishing second to Monkey King in the 2009 edition of the great race. Drawn the ace, Dalgety will line up again with Republican Party on Show day in the Group 1 Allied Security NZ Pacing Free-For-All. “It’s a huge bonus with the draw we have on Friday.” Before any of that, Dalgety must focus on a backbone meeting at Ashburton today with nine drives on the busy 14-race programme. Dalgety suggests that his best drive of the day comes in Race 10 behind Always B Miki filly Joyride in the Wakanui Ocean Beef Mobile pace over 1700m for his parents Cran and Chrissie Dalgety. “Her fresh up run was super and her training since then has been awesome.” “She’s a big strong staying filly and should suit the Ashburton track.” Another big chance for the Dalgety whanau comes in Race 5 with Rushkinoff. The four-year-old Sweet Lou gelding lands a horror draw but Dalgety believes they can overcome it in the Edward Nathan Memorial Mobile Pace over 2400m. “He is hurt by the draw, but went a really good race at Kaikoura. He won quite easily so I’ll probably drive him cold again. There’s no reason why he can’t run a place with natural improvement.” Outside of the Dalgety runners Martha Stuart for Jason and Ian Thomas will be competitive in the Clem and Russell Brand Memorial Mobile Trot over 1700m. “She was good at Methven. She will really suit the shorter distance and a mobile with good gate speed drawn the front line.” “She keeps giving, so the long straight will be perfect for her.” The rest of Dalgety’s engagements are : Race 1 – Princess Bella Race 2 – Lochdarragh Race 4- Fulla Hot Eyre Race 7 – La Concha Race 11 – Wallflower Race 12 – Major Performer. Racing begins today from 12:30pm. View the full article

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Every barn at Oaklawn Park has been equipped with wifi after the Arkansas Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) covered the costs of installation in each of the 38 barns. Each barn is set to have its own router with the wifi password protected, and the Arkansas HBPA will also pay the monthly bills for the Internet access. “Even our older trainers are using the internet now,” said Arkansas HBPA President Bill Walmsley, a horse owner. “We felt this was a type of investment that will help virtually every trainer and, as a result, help virtually every owner. At Oaklawn, there are about 1,400 owners and trainers who will be there during that five-month race meet. Just to have it available, we think is a fantastic thing. And this won't cost them a penny.” While the Internet access can be used for things like watching races on smart devices or streaming replays on a phone, the new wrinkle serves a larger, more important function towards enhancing barn security, said Arkansas HBPA board member and trainer Ron Moquett. “We're very excited to provide this much-needed tool to help add another layer of protection to the horsemen doing the right thing,” Moquett said. “I've used it for years and paid for it myself. The HBPA is 'horsemen helping horsemen,' and we think this is the best way we can help them right now, to help them monitor what is going on in their barn and to protect themselves. That's especially true at a time when the rules are changing. We want to be able to prove we're doing the right thing.” Moquett said that the track has installed its own security cameras in about 40% of the barns and are 'working towards 100%.' The access to wireless internet should encourage horsepeople to install their own cameras, the footage from which may be immediately accessed via their phones. “Look, if they want to use it to stream or watch races, great,” Moquett said. “But the primary reason we're offering it is strictly for communication value, to be able to do all your stuff on your computer, and to offer the bandwidth available to make sure that if you choose not to put your own cameras on there, not having wifi is not the reason.” Moquett can attest to how critical that video can be. When one of his horses at another track had an adverse finding in a post-race drug test for a local anesthetic, Moquett knew it had to trace to the castration of a different horse in that stall several weeks before. His barn video–which documented that his staff thoroughly sanitized the stall multiple times after the castration–helped to absolve the trainer from any responsibility. “The video in the barn was able to prove not only did we not do anything illegal, but we did everything in our power to keep that stuff from happening,” he said, “and sometimes it still does.” Jeanette Milligan, executive director of the Arkansas HBPA, said she's been getting texts about the wifi from appreciative horsemen. “Trainers told me they're going to go get cameras,” she said. “I tell them, 'Just wait. It's going to be Black Friday soon. They'll be on sale then.'” The Oaklawn meeting, offering the country's richest purses over the winter months, begins Dec. 6 and runs through May 3. The post Free WiFi On Oaklawn Backside Opens Door To Enhanced Security appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Claimed for $8,000 last December, Freedom Road has now won seven consecutive races for his new connections who had to be patient with him. Now he starts as a leading contender in the $100,000 Claiming Crown Iron Horse at Churchill Downs Nov. 16.View the full article

James Rashid discusses his journey with Claiming Crown entrant Freedom Road, who he co-owns with Nick Peters and trainer Richard Sillaman, and his love for racing. Riding a seven-race win streak, Freedom Road runs Nov. 16 at Churchill Downs.View the full article

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Fasig-Tipton Digital has released its 2025 sales calendar of monthly auctions, the online sales platform said via a press release on Wednesday. The digital sales dates for 2025 are: January Digital Sale (Jan. 16-21) February Digital Sale (Feb. 20-25) March Digital Sale (Mar. 13-18) April Digital Sale (Apr. 3-8) May Digital Sale (May 8-13) June Digital Sale (May 29-June 3) July Digital Sale (July 17-22) August Digital Sale (Aug. 21-26) October Digital Sale (Oct. 2-7) December Digital Sale (Dec. 4-9) Fasig-Tipton Digital will also offer “Flash Sales” throughout the year of selected offerings when appropriate opportunities arise. “Fasig-Tipton Digital has quickly established itself as the market leader in online Thoroughbred auctions in North America–and the sky's the limit as we look ahead to 2025,” said Leif Aaron, Fasig-Tipton director of digital sales. “We have sold more than 1,000 horses for over $35,500,000 so far this year, and we still have our December Digital Sale to go.” The upcoming December Digital Sale will be held on Dec. 5-10. Click here to submit nominations. “We are accepting nominations through Nov. 20 for December Digital, and I encourage sellers to take advantage of what is typically our largest and strongest digital auction,” Aaron said. To view Fasig-Tipton Digital's 2025 sales calendar, including entry deadlines, click here. The post Fasig-Tipton Digital Releases 2025 Sales Dates appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Michael Guerin It says a lot about just how special Keayang Zahara might be that she is almost the most hyped Australian at this New Zealand Cup week. And while the three-year-old Victoria trotter has a long way to go to match the heroics of now dual IRT New Zealand Trotting Cup winner Swayzee and or Renwick Farms Dominion Trot winner Just Believe, her New Zealand debut on Friday is almost as eagerly anticipated. The beautiful and bold Victorian trotter has been lured to Addington by the new $500,000 trotting slot race the Majestic Horse Floats LP THE ASCENT and it is likely her Kiwi rivals will end up wishing she has stayed at home. Keayang Zahara has obliterated her rivals in Australia and while dominant three-year-old trotters are relatively common in harness racing, fillies like her are not. She is already running open class times, albeit aided by the change of official birthdays for harness horses as a few years back Keayang Zahara would have been a four-year-old by this stage of her life. But her age will ultimately prove irrelevant as she has the x-factor of a real deal topliner and a horse who could be something very special if she stays healthy and sound. If she has one weakness it may be her inquistive mind as driver Jason Lee says the black beauty loves to survey new environments, which is why he took her to Addington for a private workout last Saturday. “She is like that at any new track, she loves to look around and she did it here (Addington) on Saturday too,” says Lee. “But now she has been there she will be good as gold and she was actually better at Addington than most times she goes somewhere new.” So that is one ray of hope blocked out for rival connections and it is hard to find many more as under the conditions of The Ascent, Keayang Zahara and other fillies drew inside the boys. Punters taking very short odds will be hoping she trots straight to the front from where she would seem unbeatable if she brings her Aussie best to Addington but Lee admits she is no one-trick glamour pony. “Sure I’d like to lead and that will be the plan but I don’t think if is a disaster if she doesn’t,” he offers. “It is only a small field and she has amazing speed coming from behind so as long as she brings her best, and I have no reason to expect anything else, I think she will be too good.” If the Aussie sensation is to get beaten then fellow filly Empire City is the most logical danger. She has some gate speed and even if she can’t lead she will be handy and she was excellent coming from well back for second at Ashburton last start. If she trails Keayang Zahara and the leader is attacked, which looks unlikely, she could get her chance up the passing lane. There is little between the six boys in the 1980m mobile race and Bring On The Muscle was very strong at Ashburton last start but he has drawn the outside of the second line so will be giving some very smart young trotters a start. The Ascent and the $500,000 Hill Lee and Scott THE VELOCITY for three-year-old pacers are the two centrepieces of a revitalized Show Day, which also moves into a later slot, finishing early evening. The meeting will see Tuesday’s winner of the Dominion in Just Believe return for the $100,000 New Zealand Trotting Free-For-All but both NZ Cup winner Swayzee and runner-up Don’t Stop Dreaming will miss tomorrow’s $200,000 New Zealand Pacing Free-For-All. View the full article

This year's Oaks d'Italia winner Tomiko (Ire) (Footstepsinthesand {GB}) has been added to Arqana's December Breeding Stock Sale and will be offered by Baroda Stud as lot 170 during the opening day of the sale on Saturday, December 7. Trained by Paolo Aragoni for owner Luigi Ginobbi, Tomiko also finished third in the G2 Premio Lydia Tesio. She is one of two winners from four runners out of the unraced Lawman (Fr) mare Testimony (GB), a half-sister to the 10-time winner–including at Listed level–Saltonstall (GB) (Pivotal {GB}). Her second dam is the G2 Prix de Pomone heroine and G1 Prix Royal-Oak runner-up Macleya (Ger) (Winged Love {Ire}), who is in turn kin to the G3 Prix de Barbeville winner Montclair (Ire) (Montjeu {Ire}) and the Listed-placed Miramare (Ger) (Rainbow Quest), the dam of the G1 Prix Ganay winner and sire Mare Australis (Ire) (Australia {GB}). Tomiko was one of five additions to the sale announced on Wednesday. The others include the Listed winners Noir (Fr) (Mastercraftsman {Ire}) (lot 160) and La Guapisima (Fr) (City Light {Fr}) (lot 175), as well as the G3 Prix Thomas Bryon runner-up Iowa City (Fr) (Territories {Ire}) (lot 165) and Listed-placed two-year-old Griselda (Fr) (City Light {Fr}) (lot 150). The full catalogue is available to view here. The post Classic Winner Tomiko Added to Arqana’s December Breeding Stock Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article