Wandering Eyes

A year after its colt No More Time was ruled out of the Kentucky Derby (G1) due to injury, Morplay Racing begins a new quest for the Run for the Roses with Guns Loaded in the Feb. 1 $265,000 Holy Bull Stakes (G3) at Gulfstream Park. View the full article

Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation announced Jan. 28 that Kevin Lavin, who had been vice-chair, has been named chair, replacing Del Hancock, and Geoffrey Russell has been named vice-chair.View the full article

In the first National Thoroughbred Racing Association Top Thoroughbred Poll of 2025, Pegasus World Cup (G1) winner White Abarrio tops Thorpedo Anna for the No. 1 spot.View the full article

Delaware Park has made some changes to their stakes schedule in 2025, shifting the Delaware Handicap (G3) to September and debuting the Delaware Derby in June. The meet will run May 14-Oct. 11.View the full article

Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation announced Jan. 28 that Kevin Lavin, who had been vice-chair, has been named chair, replacing Del Hancock, and Geoffrey Russell has been named vice-chair.View the full article

If the Kansas City Chiefs need any advice on achieving the historic three-peat come Super Bowl Sunday, they need only ask Dr. John Eaton who, in conjunction with First Row Partners and Team Hanley, achieved the milestone at last Saturday's Resolute Racing Eclipse Awards. As a co-owner of two-time champion sprinter Goodnight Olive (Ghostzapper) during her racing career (she sold to John Stewart's Resolute Racing for $6,000,000 at FTKNOV in 2023), Eaton was honored Saturday as the breeder of yet another champion sprinter when Straight No Chaser (Speightster) earned the accolade off his win in the GI Breeders' Cup Sprint last November at Del Mar. From his home in Montana, Eaton, who has been involved in the racing and breeding industry since the 90's, spoke to what it meant having bred an Eclipse Award winner and how it differed from Goodnight Olive. “It's very exciting,” said Eaton. “The breeding is more satisfying [to me] than buying a horse and winning a Breeders' Cup. That's nice, and it pays a lot of bills to own that horse, but I get as much if not more satisfaction out of breeding a champion.” Straight No Chaser is a result of four generations of Eaton-owned mares dating back to Desireux (Fappiano), a mare whom Eaton purchased from Keeneland November as a 6-year-old in 1998. “With Straight No Chaser and [first dam] Margarita Friday, she's our third generation. It goes back to a mare named Desireux. She was a Fappiano mare that Steve and I purchased and we've been breeding for speed. [Second dam] Smile Maker (Capote) was the next one and then Margarita Friday is by Johannesburg and she's in foal now to Authentic. We have an Omaha Beach that we're probably going to race. And then we have a Practical Joke yearling that's a colt. We usually sell the colts and so he'll probably either go to a yearling sale or a 2-year-old sale. We've been pretty successful with 2-year-old sales. Margarita Friday will go to Gun Runner next year.” Straight No Chaser wins the GI Breeders' Cup Sprint | Horsephotos But Eaton was the first to note that his breeding luck hasn't always been so kind. “I bred a mare, Loma Preata, back in 1998 or 1999 myself. I bought the filly as a racehorse in France and brought her over here. After she was retired, I had a share in Forest Wildcat so I bred her and her first foal was a colt named Var. He was a Group 1 winner and a European champion. And the mare dies the next year. That's the difference between making money in the horse business. That was a tough pill to swallow because every foal after Var was going to be worth a lot of money. It's a great business, but it's a tough business. You have to have thick skin.” The success of Goodnight Olive, both on the track and in sales ring, made that tough pill just a little easier to swallow as First Row Partners reinvested that $6,000,000 back into new stock to head to trainer Chad Brown and Saratoga, where their story began. “[First Row] is a bunch of guys that sit in the front row boxes at Saratoga. We probably had [the box] for 25 or 30 years and we just decided, with the guys next to us, we said let's do a partnership and you know, we've been talking for 25 years and we decided to do it. Then a couple of other guys that have boxes decided to join so now we have six of us. Steve Laymon runs the partnership and he does most of the buying in-person. I help with the pedigrees and the 2-year-old sales. I'll look at all the videos and stuff, but he runs that partnership. With the breeding, he and I have been partners for 25 years or more, just the two of us. We had mares and raced and everything together before the partnership was created. We do have a few mares in the partnership. It was supposed to be just racing and it's gotten out of control,” Eaton says with a laugh. While Goodnight Olive was the first taste of top-level success for First Row Partners, it was hardly the first time the group had tasted victory on the track in their short five-year span. “We've had unbelievable success in [First Row]. We've only had it for five years. We had multiple Grade I winners and then got the two Eclipse Awards and two Breeders' Cups. [Goodnight Olive] was our first Grade I success but we've had several Grade II winners and Grade III winners within that short period of time which is a little unusual. That was an exciting night [when Goodnight Olive sold at FTKNOV]. We probably buy three to five horses a year. And you know you're going to have one every year that's going to be a stakes winner, just to pay the bills. One of them usually pays the bills. So it's not an easy business. We used to buy in the $145,000-$250,000 range. Now, [with the funds from Goodnight Olive], we're probably buying $250,000 to $350,000. But we keep it under control.” Goodnight Olive sells for $6,000,000 at FTKNOV | Fasig-Tipton Eaton recently purchased a home in Saratoga Springs, NY, not just to bring him closer to where his horses spend their summers but also as he looks to take advantage of a lucrative state-bred breeding program. “I'm probably going to move some mares to New York and have New York-breds as its such a great program. Plus, it's enjoyable to be there with the partners and enjoy the success. I haven't been able to really be at most of the races in four or five years now. Short term, I'll be buying some mares for myself to take to New York eventually.” Confidence in the New York-bred program, along with strong purses both there and in Kentucky, has Eaton looking to double down on his investment in the game, even others may be looking to get out. “We're all getting older. And you can't take the money with you so I'm probably going to step up participation at least in the breeding aspect. I wish I was 20 years younger, it would be a lot easier! It's a game of patience. Chad Brown has taught me that. But Kentucky is strong. And New York is so strong. They have a wonderful breeding program. If you're doing the New York-breds, most of the stud fees in New York are pretty cheap. That's the level I'll participate in with my horses probably for the time being until they prove that they're going to be a successful mare. Then I'll probably go to some stallions in Kentucky.” And as for going for the four-peat? “We're just hoping Straight No Chaser stays healthy. He's a very talented horse. It's just about keeping them healthy. We're always looking for the next one.” The post Dr. John Eaton Enjoys A Breeding High As Straight No Chaser Gives Him A Third-Straight Eclipse Award appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Professional Racing Association (PRA), which claims to represent around 170 trainers in Britain, has reversed its call for its members to refuse television interviews during the race meeting Sandown on Saturday. A statement released on Tuesday read, “The PRA has decided to call off the withdrawal of trainer interviews this Saturday to avoid further public conflict between two organisations that are fundamentally aligned.” The PRA, which was founded by Plumpton racecourse owner and former BHB chairman Peter Savill, had asked for payment from media rights companies in return for access to its trainers on race days. Currently, jockeys receive an annual group fee for TV input which is put towards their insurance scheme. Savill has stressed that “the money would not go to trainers personally – absolutely not”, and instead be used to aid “benevolent causes and the Injured Jockeys Fund, that need funding”. The PRA's proposed action at Sandown had not been supported by the Thoroughbred Group, the umbrella group which represents the Racehorse Owners Association, National Trainers Federation, the Professional Jockeys Association, National Association of Stable Staff and the Thoroughbred Breeders' Association, and which is working on its own proposals for new commercial partnerships. A statement from the Thoroughbred Group read, “The sport should be working together to ensure that everybody is remunerated fairly, and any increased contributions should not be helping to fund groups that sit outside of the sport's governance structure. “Thoroughbred Group members are confident that the commercial partnerships proposal that is currently being debated by the industry presents a more constructive blueprint for the growth of the sport.” The PRA has, however, insisted that the interview boycott proposal had put the issue of the unequal distribution of racing's finances in the spotlight. Its statement continued, “Trainers fully understand the positive effect that the media have on our sport and the insinuation that any trainer who supported the withdrawal of interviews might be letting the industry down was therefore disappointing. “The publicity that this issue has attracted has highlighted one of the many inequalities in the distribution of racing's finances. “The main inequality though is the unfair distribution of racing revenue between horsemen and racecourses that filters down from the racecourse into prize-money. This is the PRA's main concern, and we do not want the current issue to deflect from that focus.” It also called for racecourses to treat the sport's participants as partners and for “horsemen and the BHA to demand a seat at the table of all future media rights discussion…so that horsemen finally receive their fair share of those deals and there is no misunderstanding as to how the income will be shared. It is unacceptable that racecourses have excluded them both from these negotiations for so long. “The PRA will continue to intervene where those in the official industry structure are unwilling to do so. Our goal continues to be to have the whole industry working together to increase the income for British racing, but this cannot happen till these imbalances are resolved.” The post PRA Backs Down on Proposed Interview Boycott appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

by Renee Gleelen/Kit Gow/TTR AusNZ Buyers remained hungry for top quality fillies on Day 3 of the New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale, with Rich Hill Stud's Proisir (Aus) delivering the two top priced lots on the day. Curraghmore continued their super sale, providing two of the most sought after yearlings in the session on behalf of Nearco Stud. Lot 564 – Proisir (Aus) x Donna Marie (NZ) (Don Eduardo {NZ}), filly, NZ$1,100,000 The full-sister to champion middle-distance horse Prowess (NZ) (Proisir {Aus}) was always going to command attention when she entered the sales ring, and it was no surprise to see her crack the million-dollar mark when selling to Roger James and Robert Wellwood for NZ$1.1 million in the closing stages of Book 1. Her 2-year-old full-sister, now named Seychelles (NZ), was also a seven-figure lot when walking through this same ring twelve months ago, selling to the NZ$1.6 million bid of Moody Racing. James has found the 2025 renewal of Karaka tough and faced particularly fierce competition when stretching to take home the daughter of Donna Marie (NZ) (Don Eduardo {NZ}), who is herself the half-sister to Singapore's Champion 2YO Colt and Champion 3YO Miler Onceuponatime (NZ). “We didn't think we were unrealistic about prices, but we have been this year, and I think it's a reflection of our increased stakes,” he said. Coming off the back of a huge edition of the Karaka Millions raceday, perhaps bidders were a bit more willing to part with their cash to secure the goods. That was certainly the case for the connections of Orchestral (NZ) (Savabeel {Aus}), who added NZ$500,000 to her winnings at the weekend with victory in the Listed Aotearoa Classic. James secured this million dollar filly to race in their ownership. “From the first time I saw her, I thought she was perfect,” James said. “So balanced, I couldn't fault her. Someone, the buyer, who owns Orchestral asked me to rate her out of 10, and I said 10. I could not fault her in any way.” The perfect filly differs a little from dual Group 1-winning Prowess, and that was something that made James fall in love with her even more. “Prowess was a big, rangy filly that we had to wait for, and this filly is so balanced that you could see her doing things at the tail end of her 2-year-old year,” he said. “You could imagine her being a bit of a sprint 3-year-old. “Her attitude is bombproof. I saw her earlier today dead on her feet tired because she's been so popular, but the minute you asked her to walk, she had an overstep of about three inches. She's one filly that is going to give her guts for you.” Bred by Hallmark Stud, the filly's full-sister Prowess has set the tone for the page, as winner of the G1 Vinery Stud Stakes and G1 New Zealand Stakes amongst six stakes wins. Donna Marie's dam Scarlet Runner (NZ) (Kingdom Bay {NZ}) won the G2 Sir Tristram Fillies Classic and is the second dam of three other stakes performers, including G3 Cuddle Stakes runner-up Goodsav (NZ) (Savabeel {Aus}). Donna Marie was served again by Rich Hill Stud's Proisir, who stands for NZ$80,000 (+GST), after this filly's birth. At A Glance At the close of trade on the final day of Book 1, the aggregate finished at NZ$75,322,500 down from 2024's gross of NZ$79,585,000, but up from the 2023 figure of NZ$70,063,000. In 2025, 457 lots were sold, which is slightly less than the 473 who changed hands in 2024. The average for the sale in 2025 was NZ$164,819 which is comparable to 2024's figure of NZ$168,257, and a good rise on the 2023 average of NZ$151,980. The median figure dropped again from last year to NZ$110,000, down from NZ$120,000 in 2024 and NZ$130,000 in 2023, however, it is up on 2022's median which came in at NZ$100,000. New Zealand Bloodstock reported a clearance rate of 78%, which is the same as in 2024 and not dissimilar to 2023 (79%) and 2022 (77%). The top-seller on Day 3 was lot 564, a full sister to Prowess (NZ) (Proisir {Aus}) offered by Hallmark Stud, who was knocked down to Roger James and Robert Wellwood for NZ$1.1 million. Last year, Hallmark Stud sold her full-sister for NZ$1.6 million to Moody Racing. The Book 1 sale-topper came on day 2 and was lot 345, a Savabeel (Aus) filly from Symphonic (NZ) (O'Reilly {NZ}) who is the full-sister to dual Group 1 winner Orchestral (NZ). Offered by Haunui Farm, she was secured by Mulcaster Bloodstock and Chris Waller for NZ$2.4 million. Haunui Farm finished the sale as the leading vendor by aggregate, for the first time. They sold 24 yearlings, netting NZ$6.7 million in receipts. Curraghmore finished the sale as the leading vendor by average (three or more), having sold 18 yearlings for an average of NZ$322,222. They were also the vendor with the highest clearance rate (3 or more sold) at 86%. Champion sire Savabeel was the leading sire by aggregate. He had 35 yearlings make a collective NZ$10,050,000 at an average of NZ$287,000. He was knocked off the leading sire by average by Wootton Bassett (GB) whose nine yearlings sold for an average of NZ$361,000. St Mark's Basilica (Fr) is the leading first-season sire by average (three or more). His seven yearlings sold at an average price of NZ$235,000. Sword Of State (Aus) claimed the freshman honours in terms of aggregate; his 20 yearlings grossed NZ$4 million at an average of NZ$201,000. For the 20th consecutive year, David Ellis was the leading buyer. The Te Akau boss signed for 26 yearlings, spending NZ$4.5 million at an average of NZ$173,000. Lot 637 – Proisir (Aus) x Golden Hind (NZ) (Tavistock {NZ}), filly, NZ$850,000 Proisir provided the top two lots on the last day of Book 1, which is testament to the quality of his stock year on year. Within the first fortnight of the new year, he added two stakes wins to his record courtesy of Bourbon Empress (NZ) in the G2 Rich Hill Mile on New Year's Day and Whangaehu (NZ) in the G3 Trentham Stakes, with Vegas Queen (NZ) coming second at the weekend in the G3 Almanzor Trophy. The New Zealand Champion Sire in 2022/23 certainly commanded a premium for this filly out of Golden Hind (NZ) (Tavistock {NZ}), a half-sister to New Zealand Bloodstock Filly of the Year Planet Rock (Fastnet Rock), with Dean Hawthorne Bloodstock's winning bid coming in at NZ$850,000. Hawthorne admitted he ended up in a bit of a “bidding duel” over her, and it was a relief to hear the auctioneer's gavel come down. “(She's a) lovely, lovely filly,” he said. “We know how good Tavistock mares are. I think she is a nice sort of 1400-metre, miler filly. Tavistocks throw speed, you can get a fast horse out of a Tavistock mare. “Once she matures, she'll really come in to what we think (of her). I don't think she will be a flying 2-year-old, but I think she will be a nice Guineas filly.” The late Tavistock (NZ) has eight stakes winners to his name as a broodmare sire, and 58 winners from 114 foals from his daughters to start. Chief among those stakes winners is the perennial Mr Brightside (NZ) (Bullbars {Aus}), who added the G1 Makybe Diva Stakes and G1 Cantala Stakes to his record in the spring. Mercurial (NZ) (Burgundy {NZ}) is the other Group 1 winner from Tavistocks daughters, who won the G1 Telegraph Stakes amongst six career victories. “She will be for the GSA Racing team,” Hawthorne said. “Where she goes, we don't know (yet).” Bred by Nearco Stud and presented by Curraghmore, the filly is the first foal from the unraced Golden Hind (NZ), who is also a half-sister to G3 Kelt Memorial Handicap winner Ringo (NZ) (Fastnet Rock {Aus}), and is closely related to G1 Victoria Derby-placed stallion Gorky Park (NZ). Golden Hind was covered again by Proisir after this filly's birth. Lot 628 – Sword Of State (Aus) x Fuld's Bet (Aus) (I Am Invincible {Aus}), colt, NZ$540,000 Cambridge Stud's Sword Of State (Aus) delivered the top-priced colt on the third day at Karaka, falling to the bid of Mulberry Racing for a tick over half a million dollars. He comes well-credentialled, as a son of Listed Gimcrack Stakes winner Fuld's Bet (Aus) (I Am Invincible {Aus}), who has already produced the G3 Northland Breeders Stakes-placed I'm All In (NZ) (Zoustar {Aus}). New South Wales-based trainer Brad Widdup spotted the colt early in the sale and circled him as one to take home for the Mulberry Racing team. “He was one of the colts that we found pretty early in the sale and we wanted to buy him,” Widdup said. “I didn't think we would have to go that hard, but it's nice to secure him, by a nice young stallion off of a great farm, so hopefully we can make him a racehorse. “He does actually look like a horse that will get up and running (early), he looks like a real Snitzel-speed type of horse. Let's hope he's got the quality. Obviously we had to dig deep to buy him, so it's a great effort by all.” Sword Of State has been well received at the first two sales to see his progeny so far, averaging 16 times his service fee (excluding GST) at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Sale and averaging 13.4 times across all three days of Book 1. He saved the best for last, with this being his most expensive yearling at Karaka. He stands for NZ$15,000 (+GST) at Cambridge Stud. Bred and sold by Cambridge Stud, this filly has big boots to fill. All three of Fuld's Bet's foals to hit the track have come home winners, and she has plenty of blacktype around her, as she is a half-sister to R. Listed Inglis Nursery winner Irish Bet (Aus) (Smart Missile {Aus}), who accumulated HK$3.6 million (A$739,000) in prize money racing as Hong Kong Bet, and G1 Queensland Derby runner-up Rockstar Rebel (Aus) (Rebel Raider {Aus}). The family also features G1 Canterbury Guineas-placed stallion Cheval De Troy (Aus). Fuld's Bet delivered another filly by Sword Of State in November. Lot 579 – Savabeel (Aus) x Embedded (Aus) (Shamus Award {Aus}), filly, NZ$450,000 Champion sire Savabeel (Aus)'s progeny have continued to be in high demand across Book 1, and this filly is no exception. Trent Busuttin, who purchased the lot in conjunction with training partner Natalie Young and Cameron Cooke Bloodstock, was pleased to take one home at this price. “Obviously (she's) just by the right sire, Savabeel, he has a just outstanding record,” he said. No need to pump him up.” Busuttin and Young have had plenty of success with the progeny of Waikato Stud's champion, most notably with multiple Group 1-winning Sangster (Aus), so it makes sense to return to such a lucrative well for another drink. “She's a beautiful filly, she's probably one of the nicest fillies that I saw (at Karaka),” Busuttin said. “We knew we'd have to pay a fair bit of money for her. I thought if we could get her for under NZ$500,000, we would be doing well. “I've bought her for a group of clients, and the vendor's going to stay in for a leg. That always fills you with a bit of confidence when they're happy to stay in.” Busuttin is pleased to have the support of bloodstock agent Cameron Cooke, who had put the filly high on his list from the beginning. The team-up has resulted in several of Cooke's clients already investing in the filly. “(I'm) rapt with the filly, and she was one that I was hoping I'd go home with from the sale. So certainly glad we grabbed her. Just an outstanding type. We have had plenty of luck with Savabeels, and hopefully this continues.” Bred by Ultra Thoroughbred Racing, this filly is the first foal from Shamus Award mare Embedded, a full-sister to Listed Anzac Day Stakes winner Flying Award and a half-sister to Listed South Pacific Classic-placed Snake Charmer (Pentire {GB}). Second dam Flying Dansino (Aus) (Fusaichi Pegasus) placed in the Listed Gimcrack Stakes and is a half-sister to G1 South Australian Derby runner-up Zagreb (NZ) (Zabeel {NZ}). Embedded was exported to Australia ahead of last spring, where she delivered a full sister to this filly. Trent Busuttin | NZB Lot 638 – Dundeel (NZ) x Grace Augusta (Aus) (Declaration Of War, colt, NZ$450,000 Another team-up between breeders Nearco Stud and consigner Curraghmore resulted in another top price paid for this colt, who received a handy pedigree update at the weekend when his dam's half-brother Coastwatch (Aus) (Fastnet Rock {Aus}) added another string to his bow with victory in the Listed John Dillon Stakes at Sandown. Successful Cambridge-based trainer Stephen Marsh and Dylan Johnson Bloodstock teamed up to secure this colt, who is the first living foal from Grace Augusta (Aus) (Declaration Of War), a half-sister to G1 Caulfield Guineas winner Mighty Boss (Aus) (Not A Single Doubt {Aus}). “(A) standout type, he was a Dundeel with a touch of spark,” said Marsh. “I reckon he will go early enough, he's out of a half to Mighty Boss and he was a Group 1 winner.” Mighty Boss's only other win came as a 2-year-old, but he gave plenty of courageous performances as he got older, finishing 0.9l behind Hartnell (GB) (Authorized {Ire}) in the G1 CF Orr Stakes and running fourth behind Showtime in the G2 Stutt Stakes. “We will keep him a colt and see what happens, we would love to try and make him a stallion,” Marsh said. “He was the last horse to bid on at Book 1 (for Marsh) and it was great to go out with a bang like that.” The colt is by far the most expensive lot that Marsh and Johnson acquired in Book 1, who signed the docket for 10 lots in total. Their second highest bid was NZ$380,000 on lot 337, the Savabeel half-brother to G3 Bonecrusher Stakes winner Sethito (NZ) (Super Seth {Aus}). Bred by Nearco Stud and offered by Curraghmore, this colt descends from G1 Australian Oaks victress La Volta (Aus) (Laranto {Aus}), whose other stakes winning descendants include G2 Angus Armanasco Stakes winner Catch A Fire (Aus) (Sebring {Aus}) and G2 Sires' Produce Stakes-winning Seaburge (Aus) (Sebring {Aus}). Grace Augusta was covered by Dundeel's champion first-season sire son Super Seth after this filly's birth. Stephen Marsh | NZB The post Proisir Reigns Supreme With Second Seven-Figure Daughter From Donna Marie appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The first foal by Little Big Bear (Ire), Europe's champion juvenile of 2022, was born on Saturday when Unchained Melody (Ire), owned by Aidan and Annmarie O'Brien's Whisperview Trading Limited, produced a bay filly. “She's a pretty filly with a good hind leg,” said Ana O'Brien. “[She's] a very good first foal and a great start for the mare. We're very happy with her and will definitely be supporting Little Big Bear again this year.” Unchained Melody is a daughter of Fastnet Rock (Aus) and hails from the famed Ballymacoll family of Hellenic (Ire) (Darshaan {GB}) and Islington (Ire) (Sadler's Wells). Whisperview reportedly have three other mares due to Little Big Bear in the coming months, including the G3 Jersey Stakes winner Ishvana (Ire) (Holy Roman Emperor {Ire}). Timeform's highest-rated juvenile in the past five years, Little Big Bear was awarded a rating of 126p following his seven-length success in the G1 Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh. The post First Foal for Coolmore’s Champion Juvenile Little Big Bear appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Back by popular demand is the Mark O'Hanlon Memorial Racing and Breeding Quiz, which will take place on Tuesday, February 18. Moving this year from its traditional venue of the Lord Bagenal Hotel to Gowran Park racecourse, the fiendishly difficult quiz which has taxed some of the finest minds in the racing business will get underway at 8pm with Kevin O'Ryan as MC. Teams of four are invited to play for the coveted trophy which last year was won by Eoin Fives, Shane Power, Charles Weld and Declan Foy. Don't miss one of the highlights of the Irish social calendar. The post Mark O’Hanlon Memorial Quiz 2025 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Verifying (Justify), who stands at Florida's Pleasant Acres Stallions, was represented by his first foal when a filly was born Jan. 25. The filly is out of the Malibu Moon mare Selective Memory and owned by Belvedere Farm. “There is so much to say about Verifying and the potential for his progeny to take the racing industry by storm,” said Director of Stallion Services Christine Jones. “A half-brother to 6x Grade I winner Midnight Bisou, Verifying is a dual hemisphere stallion who had a very successful breeding debut in Florida and Argentina in 2024. This first filly is an exceptional representation of his impeccable pedigree, and we can't wait to see the others as they arrive!” Verifying, who placed in the GI Champagne Stakes, the GI Toyota Blue Grass and the GI H. Allen Jerkens Memorial Stakes, stands at Pleasant Acres Stallions for $10,000. The post GSW/MGISP Verifying Represented By First Foal appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Newly-turned 3-year-old Citizen Bull (Into Mischief) and Saturday's GI Pegasus World Cup winner White Abarrio (Race Day) top Week 1 of the NTRA Top Thoroughbred Poll through Jan. 26. In addition to Citizen Bull, who won the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile at Del Mar last November, Bob Baffert also trains the second-place 3-year-old in Barnes (Into Mischief). Godolphin's 'TDN Rising Star' East Avenue (Medaglia d'Oro) was third while Saturday's GIII Southwest Stakes winner Speed King (Volatile) rounded out the top five. White Abarrio was the top-ranked thoroughbred, beating out newly-crowned Horse of the Year and 'TDN Rising Star' Thorpedo Anna (Fast Anna) and last year's GI Breeders' Cup Classic winner and fellow 'Rising Star' Sierra Leone (Gun Runner). Pegasus third and another 'Rising Star' Locked (Gun Runner) and MGISW 'Rising Star' Fierceness complete the top five. The post Citizen Bull And White Abarrio Debut Atop NTRA Top Thoroughbred Polls appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Kevin Lavin has been named chair of the Grayson-Jockey Club Foundation, the organization announced Tuesday. Lavin, who was previously vice chair, replaces Dell Hancock, and Geoffrey Russell has been named vice chair. In addition, Mandy Pope has been elected to the board of directors, and former board of directors Donald R. Dizney and John C. Oxley have been awarded the position of director emeritus. Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation is traditionally the nation's leading source of private funding for equine medical research that benefits all breeds of horses. Since 1940, Grayson has provided nearly $42.3 million to underwrite more than 437 projects at 48 universities. Additional information about the foundation is available here. The post Kevin Lavin Named New Chair At Grayon-Jockey Club Foundation appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

On the gloomiest of January days when even the snowdrops aren't bobbing their heads with too much enthusiasm, there is however an undeniable sense of excitement at Cheveley Park Stud. The red doors of the immaculate stallion yard give a flash of colour at least, as the one at the end of the row opens to grant access to a new stallion as grey as the day itself. Vandeek (GB) has already enjoyed some days in the sun and there is now hope of more to come from his secondary career. He is for now the sole Group 1 winner by Havana Grey (GB), the Whitsbury Manor Stud stallion who exploded onto the scene when his first runners took to the track in 2022 and has consolidated those early good impressions with a raft of notable performers from his two subsequent crops to race. When Vandeek arrived at Nottingham on July 21, 2023 to make his racecourse debut he already enjoyed a degree of fame as the sale-topper of the Tattersalls Craven Breeze-up, an achievement notched both from the fast time of his breeze show and the swiftly rising profile of his sire. Such notoriety can sometimes be a curse, but not in this case. Vandeek's debut covering season will coincide with the 50th anniversary of Cheveley Park Stud being owned by the Thompson family, whose red, white and blue silks have become a symbol of British-bred quality. Over those decades, the stud's broodmare band has been complemented by a stallion roster with a notable sprinting influence, highlighted by the Thompsons' homebred Pivotal (GB) and including Prince Sabo (GB), Dutch Art (GB) and the family's first stallion, Music Boy (GB), the winner of the Gimcrack Stakes in 1975. “We're going back to our grassroots, really,” acknowledges Cheveley Park Stud's long-standing managing director Chris Richardson. “Remembering the days with Music Boy in the 70s, and then following through with Polar Falcon and Pivotal […] we've had a wonderful history with speed stallions. So we're back to something that is more familiar to us. We're obviously delighted that we've been able to secure Vandeek for both domestic and international breeders, and hugely grateful to KHK Racing Ltd for allowing us to have him grace our property here.” As Vandeek strides out obligingly in the stallion yard alongside John Rice, in the paddock behind them grazes the now-retired 27-year-old Kyllachy (GB), another former stalwart of the stallion roster with the type of profile which is much needed, particularly in Britain. Vandeek, who will stand alongside Ulysses (Ire), is one of three specifically Flat stallions to be joining the ranks in the UK this year, along with Bradsell (GB) and Isaac Shelby (GB), while the dual St Leger winner Eldar Eldarov (GB) can be considered a dual-purpose prospect at Chapel Stud. Kyllachy, a dependable friend to breeders, had a final stud fee of £15,000 and that is where the unbeaten two-year-old and dual Group 1 winner Vandeek will be starting out. The latter's racing career lasted for a year and was carried out in six acts, with four of those ending in triumph, including the G1 Middle Park Stakes, G1 Prix Morny and G2 Richmond Stakes. He was third in both outings at three, behind Inisherin (GB) in the G2 Sandy Lane Stakes and Mill Stream (Ire) in the G1 July Cup. Last August came the announcement that he would stand at Cheveley Park Stud and he already looks very much at home there as he poses like a statue at length outside the stallion box which commemorates the Triple Crown winner Isinglass, who, back in the 1890s, became the highest-earning racehorse of that time. “It's remarkable. It's almost like he's been here before,” Richardson says. “From day one, he just walked in, and I think that's something that's been so special, that he can just adapt straightaway to the environment and what he is supposed to do.” He continues, “When he had his first race at Nottingham and he missed the break by four lengths and still won by four lengths, it was a sort of dozy performance that was so electrically impressive. And I think that sort of epitomises his nature. And to have gone on to be unbeaten at two, to go to Goodwood and win the Richmond Stakes and then come back to win the Morny beating Ramatuelle, who was a phenomenally talented filly, and the Middle Park – he's just taken it all in his stride. “He's got this wonderful athleticism, great movement and a wonderful head and mental outlook that just allows him to, as I say, just take everything in and do what he's meant to do. So let's hope that the next part of his career is just as successful.” The memorial plaque to Isinglass in the stallion yard | Emma Berry Bred in Wales by Kelly Thomas of Maywood Stud, Vandeek is out of the Exceed And Excel (Aus) mare Mosa Mine (GB). His granddam Baldemosa (Fr) (Lead On Time) is a half-sister to the classy Balbonella (Fr) (Gay Mecene), winner of the Prix Robert Papin when it was still a Group 1 and later fourth in the Poule d'Essai des Pouliches won by the great Miesque. A nine-time winner in France and America, Balbonella went on to produce the champion sprinter and notable stallion Anabaa, as well as Key Of Luck. “We're getting some terrific support from English breeders, as well as French and Irish breeders and some German breeders, too. So he's really catching the imagination,” Richardson says of Vandeek. “He's obviously the best son of Havana Grey to date and he's out of an Exceed And Excel mare, so there's plenty of speed.” Support is obviously key for any new stallion on the scene to have a chance of success, and in this regard Vandeek can call on the Cheveley Park Stud broodmare band. Though that has been streamlined in recent years, a significant number of the Thompsons' mares will be sent his way. These include Integral (GB) (Dalakhani {Ire}), winner of both the G1 Falmouth and G1 Sun Chariot Stakes and the daughter of Group 1 winner Echelon (GB) (Danehill), and Zykina (GB), the dam of Group 1 winner Good Guess (GB), who was one of the busiest young stallions in Ireland last year at Tally-Ho Stud. “We've got 22 mares going to Vandeek this first season,” Richardson reports. “There's a Group 1 winner in Integral, and also a Pivotal daughter of Russian Rhythm in Zykina, who is the dam of Good Guess, who won the Prix Jean Prat. So that's the level of quality of mare that we're able to to offer, and I hope that gives assurances to those other breeders who are supporting us that we really are giving this horse a fantastic opportunity. And Vandeek, I think, deserves it.” The post Cheveley Park Stud Goes Back to Roots With Vandeek appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

“Your Mr. Bassett doesn't come to Japan because of the war,” said a junior executive of the Japan Racing Association in late August 2004. It was close to midnight in Sapporo, where I had accompanied Rogers Beasley on my first trip to Japan. We had dined with Masayuki Goto, a very sharp man, then a general manager of corporate planning, who the same junior executive whispered would in time ascend to the top job. Gotosan insisted on karaoke after dinner, and I learned later such occasions bring out candor, laughter, and camaraderie. The trip was memorable as Hideyuki Mori attended the Keeneland September Yearling Sale weeks later and purchased an $8 million son of Storm Cat from the Lanes End consignment. At the time, I was just beginning my career in Thoroughbred racing and already knew of Ted Bassett. Over the years, I got to know Mr. Bassett well, especially when he and Bill Mooney were writing Keeneland's Ted Bassett: My Life. Mr. Bassett took a real interest in the market development initiatives at Keeneland, and I would be summoned to the cottage to provide background statistics on commercial parts of the book. The first of these involved Jim Williams or Karen D'Ambruoso asking for specifics to prepare and I would run up. Eventually the 'Bassett, James E.' would flash on my phone, and for some reason, one felt they needed to stand up straight from a seated position when answering. Mr. Bassett was a kind and intensely curious man, and seeing the stream of visitors to the cottage, you learned he was open to reciprocity with knowledge, wanted to learn about those visiting him, and inquired about their loved ones and their lives. His time in service was of immense importance, as you could always see the U.S. Marine Corp logo on the middle of his ZZ 77 license plate, on his lapel if wearing a coat, and around his office. Despite his openness, one had reservations of asking about his experience in World War II. When crossing the Pacific from California or Seattle, you fly over Midway. If flying to Australia, Guadalcanal, and flying north from Australia to East Asia, the Marshall, Palau, Volcano and Marianas islands. After Pearl Harbor, the Empire of Japan established a defensive perimeter that started north of the Sakhalin Islands, descended east along the international date line, swung west from the Gilbert Islands to New Guinea, now-Indonesia, to the Burmese peninsula, with occupation of the Korean peninsula, parts of China, British territories of Singapore and Hong Kong, and the Philippines. The distances are staggering. In 2010, HBO ran their series, “The Pacific,” following the 1st Marine Division in its land battles in Guadalcanal, New Guinea, Peleliu (Marianas Islands), Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. I saw Mr. Bassett in the track kitchen one morning and asked him if he had seen it; he had. He was open to discussing it, and we did. Mr. Bassett watched “The Pacific” every week when it aired with interest, and said it was accurate. The Battle of Okinawa was the deadliest in the Pacific War, where American soldiers, sailors and Marines fought alongside allies from Great Britain, Australia, Britain, and New Zealand. Ted Bassett was one of these extraordinary individuals. America is a young, complex country, whose complexity grows as we age. When General Douglas Macarthur signed the Instrument of Surrender on the USS Missouri as she lay at anchor in Tokyo Bay, the United States was 169 years old. We proceeded to do the most extraordinary thing. After prevailing with our allies over Japan, we worked to rebuild them. Japan is a steadfast ally, our business partners and friends. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. On August 12, 2018, Masayuki Goto and his entourage are leaving The Jockey Club Round Table, and in a scrum, a group of us including Mr. Bassett and Roger Beasley strike up a friendly conversation. Mr. Goto was four years into his job as CEO and accomplished important goals which benefitted Japanese and American racing mutually. One of the younger JRA representatives with Mr. Goto mentioned something to me like what our karaoke friend said in 2004, and I smiled, thinking of Mr. Bassett, our two countries, and suggested taking a photo for posterity. This photo speaks to old friends, Mr. Goto's excellent command of the Beatles, the memorable Beasley rendition of Bobby Darin's Mack the Knife, and a very, very remarkable man, part of the Greatest Generation whose victories and sacrifice will outlive us all. Farewell and thank you, Mr. Bassett. The post Letter To The Editor: A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Intidab (Phone Trick) and Kayrawan (Mr. Prospector), both graded-stakes winning stallions previously owned by Shadwell Farm, were euthanized due to the infirmities of old age, Old Friends announced Tuesday. Intidab was euthanized at the age of 32 on Jan. 23 while Kayrawan was euthanized at the age of 33 on Jan. 25. The stallions came to Old Friends following the death of Shadwell Farm's founder, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in March of 2021. “Our Old Friends family is saddened to lose these two Shadwell stallions,” said Old Friends CEO and President John Nicholson. “So many of us had grown exceedingly fond of Intidab and Kayrawan, both of whom led accomplished and well-traveled lives. In their final chapter, they were friendly and engaging ambassadors for Old Friends as well as for Shadwell Farm. Their last years were shining examples of responsible Thoroughbred ownership and aftercare.” The post Shadwell Stallions Intidab And Kayrawan Both Euthanized At Old Friends appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Horse racing is woven into the cultural and economic fabric of Florida as well as the United States. For generations, our sport has brought communities together, created jobs, served as the foundation for vibrant local economies and sparked an economic-driving industry. However, the proposed changes in Florida House Bill 105, supported by The Stronach Group (TSG), threaten to unravel this legacy by decoupling live thoroughbred horse racing from gaming operations. This legislation is not just a Florida issue; it represents a dangerous precedent that could jeopardize the future of horse racing across the nation. Historically, the horse-racing industry has been a key partner in establishing casinos in many states. Without this partnership, it is unlikely that gaming would have gained the foothold it enjoys today. When casinos first sought to expand into new markets, they aligned with the horse-racing industry, leveraging our sport's rich history and community support to build the trust needed for their establishment. In return, the horse-racing industry benefited from the revenues by receiving tariffs (not subsidies) generated by gaming, thus creating a mutually beneficial relationship that has sustained jobs, communities and state economies for decades. Now, Florida HB 105 seeks to undermine that partnership by allowing thoroughbred permit-holders to cease live racing while retaining their gaming licenses. This move—known as decoupling—would sever the critical link between live horse racing and gaming, increasing our society's separation from agriculture and jeopardizing an industry that has contributed significantly to Florida's identity and economy. TSG would not be in this situation of seeking to decouple if it were not from the benefits gained through racing. Live horse racing is more than a sport; it is an economic engine that supports thousands of jobs. Trainers, jockeys, breeders, farm workers, veterinarians and countless other professionals depend on the industry for their livelihoods. In Florida alone, thoroughbred racing generates millions of dollars in revenue for the state. The ripple effects would extend far beyond the racing industry, impacting local economies and the economic benefits that live racing provides. What happens in Florida won't likely stay in Florida. If HB 105 passes, it will embolden similar efforts in other states where live racing is coupled with gaming. Decoupling could create a domino effect, undermining the fragile ecosystems that support horse racing nationwide. Take states such as Arkansas, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, Indiana and many others, where live racing is deeply intertwined with gaming. If decoupling becomes the norm, states could face similar challenges, risking the closure of tracks, the loss of jobs and further separation of our sport's cultural and agricultural significance. Allowing gaming licenses to exist without live racing undermines the very principles upon which these partnerships were built. When states approved gaming, it was statutorily defined that the revenues would help support live racing, rural economies and agricultural industries. The act of decoupling breaks this promise, and will be detrimental to the long-term health of the horse-racing industry and the agri-businesses it supports. Without the consistent presence of live events, our sport risks losing its already tenuous connection to fans and will only increase the degree of separation from agriculture for future generations. Now is the time for horsemen and horsewomen across the country to stand united with the National HBPA in opposing Florida HB 105 and any similar legislation that threatens the future of live racing. We cannot afford to let decoupling dismantle an industry that has given so much to our states and communities. The horse-racing industry has proven its value time and again, not only as a source of entertainment but as a driver of economic growth. I urge Florida legislators to consider the broader implications of this bill. Decoupling may seem like a minor administrative change, but the consequences will be anything but small. It threatens jobs, our communities and a way of life for those of us lucky enough to work in this industry. But the Florida lawmakers need to hear from horsemen and women, industry stakeholders and fans of this great sport. We must ensure they understand what is at stake with this short-sighted legislation. The future of horse racing depends on it and together, we can protect an industry through a sport that has given so much to so many. Eric Hamelback is the CEO of the National HBPA The post Open Letter to the Industry: The Domino Effects of Decoupling appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Ninety years after the birth of the Italian champion racehorse and influential sire Nearco (Ity), Mattia Cadrobbi has been appointed as the new president of the Fondo Italiano dell'Allevamento (Italian Breeding Fund), succeeding the Marquis Annibale Brivio Sforza after his 30 years in the role. Cadrobbi is a former president of the Italian Thoroughbred Breeders' Association (ANAC). Cadrobbi, whose appointment also coincided with the 40th anniversary of the foundation of the FIA, is joined on the Board of Directors by vice president Alessandra Vigliani, who is responsible for Ticino Bloodstock. Guido Berardelli, who already represents the FIA ​​on the Board of Directors of the ANAC, of which the FIA ​​is a founding member, has also been appointed to the Board, along with stallion owner Marina Monassi and stud farm owner Romina Pinna. The management of the technical secretariat has been entrusted to Franco Castelfranchi. It was also reported that the new Board of the FIA has already requested the reintegration of Italy among the member countries of the European Breeders' Fund (EBF), which currently consists of Britain, Ireland, France and Germany. The membership of the FIA was reportedly responsible for over 58% of coverings carried out in Italy in 2024. The post Mattia Cadrobbi Elected as New President of the FIA appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Day Three of NZB’s 2025 National Yearling Sales Series rounded out Book 1 on Tuesday, with a solid day of trade on par with last year’s results. At the close of selling, the Book 1 aggregate reached $75,322,500 from a slightly smaller offering of 588 yearlings, while the average rounded out at $164,819 and the clearance rate improved to 78%. The Book 1 session was one for the history books when a record-breaking $2.4 million sale of Lot 345 took place on the second day, marking the most expensive filly to be purchased at Karaka and the highest priced yearling in 25 years. NZB’s Managing Director Andrew Seabrook was pleased following the final day of Book 1. “We said if we could get close to the incredible result of 2024, we’d be thrilled, and we are down just 5% for now, so we could not be happier.” “We’ve been talking about how strong the international buying bench was here this week, but our domestic bench was outstanding. “Given the state of the economy, we’ve just proven how resilient this industry is.” It was a case of déjà vu when the highlight of Day Three, Lot 564, a full sister to Prowess (Proisir) offered by Hallmark Stud, was knocked down to Roger James and Robert Wellwood for $1.1 million. Only a year earlier, Hallmark’s Mark Baker sold another full-sister to the star for $1.6 million. “It’s a dream result,” he commented. “To repeat these results two years in a row, that is surreal. It hasn’t sunk in yet.” “It’s great for the family, her (Donna Marie’s) family, but our family. We are a small family-run stud farm. “It was a great Sale. Our clients were well-rewarded for nice horses and our pinhooks were good to us.” The second top lot of the day came when Lot 637 (Proisir x Golden Hind) sold for $850,000 to the bid of agent Dean Hawthorne. The filly was offered by Curraghmore, who led the vendor by average tables and sold all 18 yearlings offered for an average of $322,222. Securing his leading buyer title for another year was Te Akau Racing’s David Ellis, who purchased 26 yearlings over the last three days for a total spend of $4,497,500. “We’re so lucky to have such a large group of owners here at the Sale, it makes us determined to buy more horses,” he commented. “There are horses at all levels to purchase this week. We’ve bought some good horses out of Book 2 in the past too,” added Ellis. For the first time, Karaka-based Haunui Farm took the title of leading vendor, selling 24 yearlings for $6,740,000. “It’s an honour to be entrusted with such quality horses. We have some great clients that support us to bring their yearlings to the market, and it’s great to see them rewarded,” commented a delighted Mark Chitty. “It’s a massive team effort not only by Haunui but also by NZB to bring the buyers to Karaka to participate in a wonderful sale.” The leading sire for Book 1 was Coolmore’s popular Wootton Bassett, who sold nine yearlings for an average of $361,667, while his stablemate St Mark’s Basilica took the honours for the freshman stallions, with seven sold for an average of $235,714. Attention now turns to Book 2 on Wednesday where the selling of lots 662 to 860 will get underway from 12pm (NZT) at Karaka. Book 2 has been a happy hunting ground for Group One winners, highlighted by the likes of Queensland Derby winner Warmonger (NZ) (War Decree), Legarto (NZ) (Proisir) and Sharp ‘N’ Smart (NZ) (Redwood). All yearlings purchased at Karaka 2025 are eligible to be nominated for NZB’s lucrative Karaka Millions Series, featuring the $1m TAB Karaka Millions 2YO, $1.5m TAB Karaka Millions 3YO and the $1m NZB Mega Maiden Series. To nominate your yearling, contact finance@nzb.co.nz or call +64 9 298 0055. Entries close Monday 3 March 2025. To enquire about Passed Lots from Book 1 contact Patrick Cunningham on +64 21 181 5898 or email Patrick.Cunningham@nzb.co.nz, or Andrew Buick on +64 27 555 0640 or email Andrew.Buick@nzb.co.nz. View the full Book 1 results here. Catch the highlights and Lot-by-Lot footage from Book 1 here. Karaka 2025: Book 1 Statistics (as at end of selling) 2025 BOOK 1 TOTAL 2024 BOOK 1 TOTAL 2023 BOOK 1 TOTAL 2022 BOOK 1 TOTAL 2021 BOOK 1 TOTAL AGGREGATE $75,322,500 $79,585,500 $70,063,000 $63,127,500 $50,778,000 AVERAGE $164,819 $168,257 $151,980 $146,808 $123,248 MEDIAN $110,000 $120,000 $130,000 $100,000 $95,000 CLEARANCE 78% 78% 79% 77% 81% CATALOGUED 661 682 644 636 579 OFFERED 588 607 582 560 506 SOLD 457 473 461 430 412 TOP LOT Lot 345 Savabeel – Symphonic (Br.F) $2,400,000 Lot 21 Proisir – Donna Marie (Ch.F) $1,600,000 Lot 586 Fastnet Rock – Test the World (B.F) $1,000,000 Lot 161 Savabeel – Chandelier (B.C) $1,000,000 Lot 94 Zoustar – Scintillula (B.F) $800,000 Karaka 2025: Book 1 Day Three Top Lots Lot Sire Dam Sex Vendor Purchaser Price 564 Proisir Donna Marie Filly Hallmark Stud Mr RA James / Mr R Wellwood (Waikato) $1,100,000. 637 Proisir Golden Hind Filly Curraghmore Dean Hawthorne Bloodstock (Waikato) $850,000. 628 Sword of State Fuld’s Bet Colt Cambridge Stud Mulberry Racing (NSW) $540,000. 579 Savabeel Embedded Filly Kilgravin Lodge Busuttin Young Racing / Cameron Cooke Bloodstock (VIC) $450,000. 638 Dundeel Grace Augusta Colt Curraghmore Stephen Marsh Racing / Dylan Johnson Bloodstock (Waikato) $450,000. 573 Savabeel Early Morning Rise Filly Waikato Stud Mr DC Ellis CNZM (BAFNZ) (Te Akau) $380,000. 587 Savabeel Etiquette Colt Waikato Stud Waikato Bloodstock (Waikato) $375,000. 530 Proisir Colerne Filly Haunui Farm Star Thoroughbred / Randwick Bloodstock Agency (FBAA) (NSW) $360,000. 595 St Mark’s Basilica Express Fantasy Colt Jamieson Park Patella Bloodstock (Waikato) $360,000. 623 St Mark’s Basilica Forbetterforworse Filly Hallmark Stud Mr RA James / Mr R Wellwood (Waikato) $310,000. Karaka 2025: Book 1 Top Lots Overall Lot Sire Dam Sex Vendor Purchaser Price 345 Savabeel Symphonic Filly Haunui Farm Mulcaster Bloodstock Ltd / Chris Waller Racing (NSW) $2,400,000. 564 Proisir Donna Marie Filly Hallmark Stud Mr RA James / Mr R Wellwood (Waikato) $1,100,000. 637 Proisir Golden Hind Filly Curraghmore Dean Hawthorne Bloodstock (Waikato) $850,000. 6 Wootton Bassett Il Affare Colt Curraghmore Michael Freedman / Tom Magnier / Mick Wallace (NSW) $725,000. 335 Proisir Strada Cavallo Filly Curraghmore DGR Thoroughbred Services (FBAA) / John Sargent Racing / Spicer Thoroughbreds (NSW) $700,000. 168 Too Darn Hot On the Ball Filly Curraghmore James Harron Bloodstock Pty Ltd / Michael Freedman Racing / Tony Fung Filly Partnership (NSW) $675,000. 11 Savabeel Indecision Colt Trelawney Stud The Hong Kong Jockey Club (Hong Kong) $625,000. 103 Wootton Bassett Matagouri Colt Windsor Park Stud Mick Price Racing & Breeding (VIC) $600,000. 457 Wootton Bassett Aspen Colorado Colt Blandford Lodge Tartan Meadow Bloodstock (Hong Kong) $600,000. 440 Proisir All Can Party Filly Highline Thoroughbreds TFI / Michael Freedman Fillies / Michael Wallace (NSW) $560,000. Karaka 2025: Book 1 Leading Purchasers by Aggregate Purchaser Aggregate Bought Top Price Top Lot Mr DC Ellis CNZM (BAFNZ) (Te Akau) $4,497,500. 26 $350,000 446 Mulcaster Bloodstock Ltd / Chris Waller Racing (NSW) $4,330,000. 11 $2,400,000 345 KPW Bloodstock (QLD) $2,410,000. 14 $170,000 78 The Hong Kong Jockey Club (Hong Kong) $2,370,000. 6 $625,000 11 Mr RA James / Mr R Wellwood (Waikato) $2,220,000. 7 $1,100,000 564 Wexford Stables (Waikato) $2,175,000. 13 $340,000 399 Go Racing / Blandford Bloodstock (Waikato) $1,855,000. 10 $375,000 188 Stephen Marsh Racing / Dylan Johnson Bloodstock $1,850,000. 10 $450,000 638 Tartan Meadow Bloodstock (Hong Kong) $1,685,000. 4 $600,000 457 Mick Price Racing & Breeding (VIC) $1,650,000. 9 $600,000 103 Karaka 2025: Book 1 Leading Vendors by Aggregate Vendor Aggregate Offered Sold Average Top Price Top Lot Haunui Farm $6,740,000. 30 24 $280,833 $2,400,000. 345 Waikato Stud $5,880,000. 50 45 $130,667 $380,000. 573 Curraghmore $5,800,000. 18 18 $322,222 $850,000. 637 Cambridge Stud $4,425,000. 39 32 $138,281 $540,000. 628 Elsdon Park $3,860,000. 29 24 $160,833 $450,000. 266 Landsdowne Park $3,685,000. 30 26 $141,731 $400,000. 169 Windsor Park Stud $3,425,000. 30 24 $142,708 $600,000. 103 Wentwood Grange $3,420,000. 28 23 $148,696 $460,000. 377 Trelawney Stud $3,405,000. 14 13 $261,923 $625,000. 11 Hallmark Stud $3,390,000. 18 15 $226,000 $1,100,000. 564 Karaka 2025: Book 1 Leading Vendors by Average (three or more sold) Vendor Offered Sold Average Top Price Top Lot Curraghmore 18 18 $322,222 $850,000 637 Haunui Farm 30 24 $280,833 $2,400,000 345 Trelawney Stud Ltd 14 13 $261,923 $625,000 11 Hallmark Stud 18 15 $226,000 $1,100,000 564 Milan Park 6 5 $202,000 $475,000 356 Highline Thoroughbreds 10 7 $192,857 $560,000 440 Kilgravin Lodge 10 7 $184,286 $450,000 579 Blandford Lodge 10 7 $183,571 $600,000 457 Woburn Farm 19 13 $180,769 $400,000 260 Rich Hill Stud 27 18 $169,167 $525,000 149 Karaka 2025: Book 1 Leading Sires by Average (three or more sold) Sire Offered Sold Average Top Price Top Lot Wootton Bassett 10 9 $361,667 $725,000 6 Savabeel 42 35 $287,143 $2,400,000 345 Too Darn Hot 8 6 $254,167 $675,000 168 Capitalist 5 5 $238,000 $460,000 377 St Mark’s Basilica* 10 7 $235,714 $360,000 595 Proisir 49 41 $233,171 $1,100,000 564 Sword of State* 22 20 $201,500 $540,000 628 Dundeel 6 6 $196,667 $450,000 638 Toronado 6 5 $195,000 $350,000 7 Satono Aladdin 39 29 $170,690 $525,000 149 *First season sire Karaka 2025: Book 1 Leading First Season Sires by Average (three or more sold) Sire Offered Sold Average Top Price Top Lot St Mark’s Basilica 10 7 $235,714 $360,000 595 Sword of State 22 20 $201,500 $540,000 628 Home Affairs 13 9 $168,889 $340,000 174 Wild Ruler 3 3 $166,667 $380,000 331 Pinatubo 5 4 $136,250 $230,000 570 Noverre 17 16 $135,625 $310,000 445 Palace Pier 3 3 $123,333 $175,000 206 Acrobat 5 4 $98,125 $160,000 511 Armory 9 6 $73,333 $120,000 604 View the full article

Star galloper I Wish I Win (NZ) (Savabeel) does not have a concrete autumn preparation mapped out, but one thing seems certain – his days being trained as an elite sprinter appear behind him. The six-year-old gelding will be targeted at races at and beyond 1400m this time in despite being a dual Group One winner over distances of 1200m and 1300m. The Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman-trained star was strutting his stuff at the Pakenham jumpouts on Tuesday and impressed by winning his heat comfortably under leading rider Jamie Melham. “Couldn’t have asked for any more, he was just out there for a soft trial today,” Coleman said. “We just instructed Jamie (Melham) just to keep him on the bridle and not really ask him to round it out – really pleased with how he finished it off and how he pulled up. “We might give him a week in between with a solid gallop next Tuesday and a trial the following week. “I’d say we’ll probably look to have him around that seven-furlong mark this preparation, but we’ll just be guided how he pulls up from this trial. “Nothing is set in stone yet, we’re just going to let him guide us and see how long it takes to get him in the condition we want to have him back to the races.” The racing future of I Wish I Win was cast up in the air following an uncharacteristically poor run in last year’s G1 The Everest (1200m) when he finished last, but Coleman said the stable flagbearer has shown all the signs there is plenty left to offer on the track having been given a good break. “He had been up and going a while without having a proper spell for quite a while, even though he’s only lightly raced he’d still been in work for quite a long time,” Coleman said. “He’s really enjoyed that, he seems to have come back in really good order, the main things that I was looking for in having him back in the stable was just that he still wanted to be there and everything that he’s done, he’s been bold and happy in his work, he’s been carrying on and nice and fresh and happy, and just showing all the right signs. “I ride him in a lot of his trackwork and he’s been dragging me around the place like usual.” I Wish I Win is second favourite to win the Gr.1 Futurity Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield – a $7 hope behind well-supported $3.50 favourite Mr Brightside. View the full article

Genuine filly Renovations (NZ) (Ardrossan) will face a distance test at New Plymouth on Saturday and connections are confident she can rise to the challenge. The daughter of Ardrossan, who has been racing well in good company this preparation, will step up in trip when she tackles the Listed Grangewilliam Stud Oaks Prelude (1800m). Renovations was a two-year-old winner last season and finished runner-up in the Listed Waikato Equine Veterinary Centre Stakes (1400m) before a break. Since her return, she has been around the mark in prestigious events when fourth two runs back in the Gr.3 Eulogy Stakes (1600m) and third in the Gr.3 Desert Gold Stakes (1600m). “She probably lacks a bit of class, but she is doing a good job and picking up that valuable black type and that’s what she’s there for,” trainer Cody Cole said. “We were a month between runs last start and she raced a little bit keener than she has. “She doesn’t have a long sprint and had to get moving a bit earlier than we wanted in the Desert Gold and the last 100m told.” Renovations holds a nomination for the Gr.1 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai New Zealand Oaks (2400m) and Saturday will provide a further insight into her Classic prospects. “She does usually relax well, and New Plymouth should suit her with not such a long run in as Trentham,” Cole said. “I thought it was a nice option with Te Rapa (Gr.2 David & Karyn Ellis Fillies’ Classic, 2000m) likely to be red hot. “This will be a peg below and a chance to stretch her out in trip and see how she copes, I don’t think the 1800m will be a problem for her.” Cole will also have a decent winning chance on the undercard with promising El Roca three-year-old Atmospheric in the Warner Construction MAAT (1400m). “He won quite nicely at Tauranga last time out, he’s a horse that has taken a bit of time and has only had three starts for a couple of placings as well,” he said. “The way he won the other day really impressed us and I think he is well capable of going on with it, he’ll be even better as a four-year-old.” Also heading south is Wet ‘N’ Wild (NZ) (Ocean Park) in the Revital Fertilisers (1200m) and a return to her best form would see the Ocean Park mare competitive. “She pulled up with a couple of issues in her last two runs, but her first-up effort was really good,” Cole said. “She ran second to Acquarello, who came out and won a stakes race, and on her day she’s good and hopefully we’ll see the best version of her.” View the full article

Star southerner Matscot (NZ) (Haradasun) displayed that he is on track for another Group One target in the North Island with a comfortable trial victory at Ashburton on Tuesday. In the hands of jockey Samantha Wynne, Matscot was the slowest away in his five-horse 1200m heat, but he soon picked up his rivals turning for home, cruising to the line by 1-1/2 lengths to handy mare Nortibutnice. Alan Reeves, who trains the seven-year-old in partnership with Sharon Robertson, was pleased with the performance as he prepares to take on the Gr.1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) at Te Rapa in 10 days’ time. “He went well, it was a nice tick over to top him off before he goes up to Waikato next Saturday,” Reeves said. “He galloped between races last Saturday as well because he’s got to travel up next Monday, so we’ve got to get his main work in this week. The trial was just to bring him down to earth a bit. “He’ll travel by road this time and he’ll get to Matamata on Tuesday morning, which will give him a few days to get over it.” The son of Haradasun is no stranger to long-distance travel, having crossed the Cook Strait to compete in the Gr.1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m), Gr.1 Mufhasa Classic (1600m) and Gr.1 Zabeel Classic (2000m) already this season. His best result of the three was a third behind One Bold Cat in the Arrowfield, and with a star-studded line-up set to take on the Herbie Dyke, Reeves is hopeful his charge is up to the challenge. “He’s got to take on the likes of Orchestral, La Crique and Snazzytavi, so he’s got to be on his A game,” he said. “He’s probably going better than he was when we went to Ellerslie (Zabeel Classic), because of the rain down here during that week, we couldn’t work on the main tracks. “He’s on target and as good as we can get him.” View the full article

The G3 Prix Paul de Moussac winner Wusool is preparing to stand his first season at Haras de la Bareliere in France in 2025, having relocated from Lilling Hall Stud in Britain where he'd been based since 2020. The Shadwell homebred was a four-time winner when in training with Francois Rohaut, while he also finished fourth, beaten two and a half lengths, in the G1 Prix Jean Prat won by Intellogent (Ire) (Intello {Ger}). A son of Speightstown and the Poule d'Essai des Pouliches heroine Torrestrella (Ire) (Orpen), he is a full-brother to the G3 Premio Carlo E Francesco Aloisi winner Farmah and a half to the G3 Rose Of Lancaster Stakes scorer Intilaaq (Dynaformer). Now in the care of José Gómez and Sybil Pécriaux at Haras de la Bareliere, Wusool will stand for a fee of €3,500 in 2025, with concessions available for winnning or black type-placed mares. The post Group 3 Winner Wusool Moves to Haras de la Bareliere for 2025 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

There are four horse racing meetings set for Australia on Wednesday, January 29. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the best bets and the quaddie numbers for Kembla Grange and Sandown. Wednesday’s Free Horse Racing Tips – January 29, 2025 Kembla Grange Racing Tips Sandown Racing Tips As always, there are plenty of promotions available for Australian racing fans. Check out all the top horse racing bookmakers to see what daily promotions they have. If you are looking for a new bookmaker for the horse racing taking place on January 29, 2025 check out our guide to the best online racing betting sites. Neds Code GETON 1 Take It To The Neds Level Neds Only orange bookie! Check Out Neds Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? Set a deposit limit today. “GETON is not a bonus code. Neds does not offer bonus codes in Australia and this referral code does not grant access to offers. Full terms. BlondeBet Signup Code GETON 2 Punters Prefer Blondes BlondeBet Blonde Boosts – Elevate your prices! Join BlondeBet Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. WHAT ARE YOU REALLY GAMBLING WITH? full terms. 3 Next Gen Racing Betting Picklebet Top 4 Betting. Extra Place. Every Race. Join Picklebet Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? Full terms. Recommended! 4 It Pays To Play PlayUp Aussie-owned horse racing specialists! Check Out PlayUp Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. Imagine what you could be buying instead. Full terms. Dabble Signup Code AUSRACING 5 Say Hey to the social bet! Dabble You Better Believe It Join Dabble Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? Full terms. Bet365 Signup Code GETON 6 Never Ordinary Bet365 World Favourite! Visit Bet365 Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. GETON is not a bonus code. bet365 does not offer bonus codes in Australia and this referral code does not grant access to offers. What’s gambling really costing you? Full terms. Horse racing tips View the full article

David Hayes has 27 winners this season. Photo: HKJC David Hayes will chase a third victory in the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m) at Sha Tin on Friday when the dual Hong Kong champion trainer unleashes Rubylot in the first leg of the HK$52 million Four-Year-Old Classic Series. Now in his second stint in Hong Kong, Hayes first tasted success in the feature with Resfa, who triumphed for Basil Marcus in 1999 when it was named the Hong Kong Classic Trial, and struck again in 2001 when Shane Dye scored on Charming City. Since returning to Hong Kong for the 2020/21 season, Hayes has had several runners in the Hong Kong Classic Mile, including The Summit, Beauty Joy and Shadow Hero in 2021, Lucky With You in 2022, Bon’s A Pearla and Flagship Warrior in 2023 and Star Mac, who finished third behind Helios Express and Helene Feeling last year. With five wins from 16 starts, Rubylot is the joint highest-rated horse in the Hong Kong Classic Mile with Francis Lui-trained Packing Hermod on a mark of 93 with Hayes’ galloper prevailing in the Class 2 The Racing Club Cup Handicap (1400m) on January 12, defeating four of Friday’s rivals – Johannes Brahms (third), Packing Hermod (fourth), Glory Elite (fifth) and Divano (eighth). “I’m very happy with him (Rubylot). I think his race (on January 12) was probably the hardest of all of the lead ups,” Hayes said. “He also ran second in another (race), which was similar. I have no doubt he’ll run the mile – I think he’ll run a very good mile. “He’s had a lot of race experience and his racing pattern says he’s crying out for a mile, but I’ve really saved it up for this race. I thought I’ll keep him at the shorter distance because there’s less pressure, but now we’ll stretch him out.” Rubylot will start from barrier 10 under Brenton Avdulla, as reigning Hong Kong champion trainer Francis Lui aims for his first Hong Kong Classic Mile success since Golden Sixty in 2020 with a four-strong arsenal featuring Packing Hermod (Zac Purton), Divano (Blake Shinn), Call Me Glorious (Matthew Chadwick) and Cap Ferrat (Vincent Ho). Following a string of testing barrier draws, Packing Hermod starts from barrier six on Friday. “He (Packing Hermod) is doing well. Of course, he is the one I expect to be hard to beat when you look at how he’s performed so far, but we will see,” Lui said. “I think the mile will be okay for him now he’s more relaxed and he keeps improving a little bit with every run. Hopefully he can run well.” Divano must overcome barrier 14, while Cap Ferrat (gate three) and Call Me Glorious (five) have drawn nicely. Completing the line-up is Fast Network (Christophe Soumillon), Johannes Brahms (Mickael Barzalona), Glory Elite (Harry Bentley), Mickley (Hugh Bowman), Lucy In The Sky (Karis Teetan), My Wish (Luke Ferraris), Top Gun (Jamie Melham), Talents Ambition (Matthew Poon) and Markwin (Derek Leung). The Hong Kong Classic Mile is the first leg in the three-race Four-Year-Old Classic Series, which also features the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m) on March 2 and the HK$26 million Hong Kong Derby (2000m) on March 23. Horse racing news View the full article