Wandering Eyes

BloodHorse's Sean Collins takes you into the crowd at Del Mar Nov. 2 to experience the $2 million Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Turf (G1T), plus bonus coverage of the winner being sold at Fasig Tipton's The November Sale Nov. 4.View the full article

Continuing to rise up the ranks, Bridlewood Farm and Madaket Stables' No Show Sammy Jo rides a four-race win streak into her toughest task yet: the $300,000 Long Island Stakes (G3T) at Aqueduct Racetrack Nov. 10.View the full article

Craig “The Whale” Thompson shares his thoughts on Oamaru today. View the full article

Clinton Isdale will be represented by two strong chances at Riccarton on Saturday and he’ll also be keeping a close watch on a pair of other runners on the program. The Cambridge trainer’s prospects are headed by Listed Donaldson Brown Pegasus Stakes (1000m) contender Is That So(NZ) (Sufficient), with Mahoe(NZ) (Alamosa) to tackle the Gold Club Premier Handicap (2000m). Isdale also shares in the ownership of Words Of Mine(NZ) (Staphanos), who runs in The Ned Fashions 13 & 16 Premier (1600m), with trainers John and Karen Parsons and also races stablemate and Scenic Hotel Group Premier (1200m) hope Funfetti(NZ) (Embellish). Short course performer Is That So has won five races up to 1200m, finished runner-up in the Listed Lightning Handicap (1200m) and was luckless when unplaced in the Gr.1 Telegraph (1200m) earlier this year. “He was just chiming in when he got taken out by a riderless horse, but that’s racing,” part-owner Isdale said. “He doesn’t really like going around a bend and with how wet Trentham has been lately we thought we’d send him down (to Riccarton) for a better track. “He travelled nicely and has been eating well, the travel was the least of my worries with him.” To be ridden by Michael McNab, Is That So will go into the Pegasus second-up following his resuming effort for fifth at Ellerslie last month. “He had a nice blow after that run and he’s improved quite a bit since,” Isdale said. He expects Is That So to take further benefit from this outing and will then back up seven days later in the Listed Lindauer Stewards Stakes (1200m). The eight-year-old son of Sufficient has been patiently handled with just 24 starts on the board. “I actually got him thinking he’d make a jumper, so he’s made a fool of us,” Isdale said. “I never broke him in until he was a four-year-old and then when he did have his first start he went shin sore, so I gave him another three or four months off.” Meanwhile, travelling partner Mahoe was unplaced two runs back before an improved effort for third at New Plymouth and is expected to give Englishman Kevin Stott a good ride. “He needs a decent track and in the Waverley Cup (2200m) he led and couldn’t quicken, it was a bit wet and not as good as we thought it would be,” Isdale said. “He was a lot better last time and he’ll be thereabouts on Saturday and it’s the first time he’s had a strong senior rider on him in a while.” Isdale has also been encouraged by reports from the Parsons stable on the chances of Words Of Mine, to be partnered by Tina Comignahi, and Funfetti, the mount of Leah Hemi. “Words Of Mine’s last run was good, she got home well and she’ll be hard to beat,” he said. “Funfetti trained off a bit and then had a good spell and Karen and John said she’s been working well, so she’ll give a good account of herself.” View the full article

Karis Teetan celebrates landmark success on Speedstar. Karis Teetan has become only the sixth jockey to reach the 700-win milestone in Hong Kong, joining one of the city’s most exclusive clubs with victory aboard David Hall-trained Speedstar at Happy Valley on Wednesday night. Douglas Whyte (1,813), Zac Purton (1,773), Joao Moreira (1,235), Tony Cruz (946) and Brett Prebble (806) are the only other jockeys to partner 700 winners or more in Hong Kong, leaving the hard-working lightweight in select company. Teetan, 34, rode his first winner in Hong Kong on September 8, 2013, triumphing at Sha Tin aboard David Ferraris-trained Amazing Always and since proceeding to a string of elite triumphs including the Group 1 FWD QEII Cup (2000m) and Group 1 Hong Kong Sprint (1200m) and Group 1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m) on Mr Stunning and the Group 1 Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup (2400m) on Panfield. Born and raised in Mauritius before moving to South Africa as a 14-year-old to follow his dream of becoming a jockey, Teetan won the South African Champion Apprentice title in 2008 and graduated as a senior rider with 147 wins to his credit. Moving to Hong Kong 11 years ago, Teetan has since become a force in his new surroundings, posting a career-best season in 2019/20 with 93 wins. “It’s an amazing number – to reach 700 wins is pretty good. I’m just thankful for all the opportunities and support I get here. I cannot do this without those opportunities I get,” he said. “It’s taken a lot of hard work, too, but I appreciate everything. It’s a nice number and I’m very pleased with it. “It’s been a long ride but I’ve been enjoying every single moment of it in Hong Kong. It’s my home. This is great.” Looking to the future, Teetan intends to ride at the highest level for as long as possible. “As long as I’m healthy and my body allows me to do it, I’m going to keep going. You have got to take every season as it comes and you’ve got to keep working hard and hopefully to get to a high number,” he said. “Of course, Zac breaks all the records in Hong Kong, but I’m not one of those guys who puts a big target in front of me and then get disappointed if I can’t do it. I just put my head down, just keep working hard and doing my best.” Adding further lustre to a banner achievement, Teetan landed a double when Pierre Ng’s Winning Steps won. Teetan’s brace was matched by Matthew Poon and Andrea Atzeni. Poon scored on David Eustace-trained Podium and Manfred Man’s Island Golden to maintain hopes of contesting the International Jockeys’ Championship (IJC) at Happy Valley on December 4. Poon is vying for one of the two remaining places in the 12-jockey series and, with 11 wins for the season, currently sits behind Purton (33 wins), Hugh Bowman (19), Vincent Ho (14) and Teetan (12). With Purton already qualified for the IJC as last season’s Hong Kong champion jockey and Ho also in the line-up as winner of the 2023 IJC, Poon is locked in battle with Bowman, Teetan and Matthew Chadwick (10) for a berth. The final two spots will be allocated after the Happy Valley meeting on November 20. “I’ve just focused on doing my best and trying to ride winners,” Poon said. “I can’t over- think it – I just have to focus.” Atzeni piloted Beauty Destiny to victory for Frankie Lor and completed his double when Ricky Yiu’s Giant Leap prevailed. Harry Bentley and Douglas Whyte combined with Prince Alex before Francis Lui’s Brave Star clinched Class 3 success under Ho. After enduring an evening of near-misses with three minor placings, Purton closed the card in style aboard Danny Shum’s Chill Chibi, who closed powerfully to win. Winless since stringing together three victories in a row at the start of last season, the Wrote gelding posted his fifth win at Happy Valley – and fourth at 1650m. Horse racing news View the full article

Explore a multitude of captivating racing promotions offered by horse racing bookmakers on Thursday, November 7. Immerse yourself in the thrill with generous bonus back offers, elevating your betting experience. Delve into these promotions from top-tier online bookmakers to maximise your betting opportunities. The top Australian racing promotions for November 7, 2024, include: Today’s best horse racing promotions Flemington Races 1 – 6: Bonus Back 2nd or 3rd Up To $50 Back a runner in races 1-6 at Flemington and if your runners comes 2nd or 3rd, get up $50 back as Bonus Cash. Fixed Win bets only. Place a fixed win bet on Flemington race 1 through 6 and get a bonus cash up to $50. Full terms apply. Login to Neds to Claim Promo 25% Boosted Winnings! – Flemington Get 25% Boosted Winnings paid in BONUS CASH. Fixed win only. First bet only. Cash bet only. Max Bonus $250. T&Cs apply. Picklebet T&Cs apply. Login to pickleBet to Claim Promo Flemington R1-3 | Run 2nd or 3rd Bonus Back up to $25 Run 2nd or 3rd in Races 1-3 at Flemington on Thursday and receive a bonus back up to $25. PlayUp T&Cs apply. Login to PlayUp to Claim Promo Thursday Bonus Back 2nd or 3rd R1-5 at 3 Metro Meetings Flemington, Hawkesbury & Ipswich. Auto-applied in Bet Slip. Minimum 6 runners. Fixed odds only. Limits may apply. T&C’s apply. Login to UniBet to Claim Promo Flemington | Finish 2nd in races 3-8 and score up to $50 back in Bonus Cash If your horse runs 2nd during races 3-8 at Flemington on Thursday, receive a bonus bet up to $50. Marantelli Bet T&C’s apply Login to Marantelli Bet to Claim Promo Best Tote and Starting Price Guarantees a dividend equal to the highest of the official win dividend paid by the three Australian TAB pools or the official starting price. Maximum stake: $2,000. 18+ Gamble Responsibly. Login to BoomBet to Claim Promo Same Race Multi Pump up your odds by selecting 2 to 4 runners to finish anywhere inside the top four, or select multiple runners to finish in the same position to create combos! Neds T&C’s Apply. Login to Neds to Claim Promo Owners Bonus – Win a bet on your horse & receive an extra 15% of winnings in cash Account holder must be registered as an official owner of the nominated horse. Fixed odds only. PlayUp T&Cs Apply. Login to PlayUp to Claim Promo Odds Drift Protector If the price at the jump is bigger than the price that you took, we will pay you out at the bigger odds Eligible customers. T&C’s apply. Login to Bet365 to Claim Promo Top 4 Betting! Bet and win up to 4th place. Picklebet T&Cs apply. Login to pickleBet to Claim Promo BoomBet Daily Race Returns Use your daily Race Returns to back a runner in ANY RACE you want* and if your horse doesn’t win but finishes in the specified positions, you get your stake back as a bonus bet. 18+ Gamble responsibly. Can be used across any race and code unless specified in customer’s BoomBox. Fix odds, win bets only. Max bonus $50. Login to BoomBet to Claim Promo Daily Multi Insurance Any race. Any runner. Any odds. Get a bonus back if your multi loses. Check your Vault for eligibility Login to UniBet to Claim Promo How does horsebetting.com.au source its racing bonus offers? HorseBetting.com.au meticulously assesses leading Australian horse racing bookmakers, revealing exclusive thoroughbred bonus promotions for November 7, 2024. These ongoing offers underscore the dedication of top horse racing bookmakers. In the realm of horse racing betting, when one bookmaker isn’t featuring a promotion, another is stepping up. Count on HorseBetting.com.au as your go-to source for daily rewarding horse racing bookmaker bonuses. Enhance your value with competitive odds and exclusive promotions tailored for existing customers. Easily access these offers by logging in to each online bookmaker’s platform. For valuable insights into races and horses to optimise your bonus bets, trust HorseBetting’s daily free racing tips. More horse racing promotions View the full article

Top VRC Oaks Day bookmaker for Aussies! Neds Australia is offering a swag of Crowns Oaks Day promotions, plus in-depth betting markets, telephone betting and much more. Join Neds Neds.com.au is one of the most prominent Australian online bookmakers and has got you prepared for Crown Oaks Day on Thursday, November 7. Neds Crown Oaks Day promotions are set to focus on races 1-6 for the lead-up to the Group 1 VRC Oaks race set for race-8. This year Neds is giving Flemington punters a Bet Match offer, where you can place a wager on races 1 through 6, and the bookie will give you up to $50 in bonuses if your horse runs second or third. If you need assistance to know which horses to back for the races, please use our free Flemington race-by-race betting preview advertised here. Including the bonus back offer, Neds will be offering their usual price boost, where you can see odds fluctuate as much as $5 by using it. With the Group 2 Wakeful Stakes winner Treasurethe Moment set to jump as the leading favourite, Neds has the three-year-old filly currently priced at $3.40. Use the following Neds Crown Oaks Day promotion to extend your shelf life on Thursday, November 7. VRC Oaks Day promotions at Neds.com.au Neds Australia is giving customers the following during the course of VRC Oaks Day: Flemington Races 1 – 6: Bonus Back 2nd or 3rd Up To $50 Back a runner in races 1-6 at Flemington and if your runners comes 2nd or 3rd, get up $50 back as Bonus Cash. Fixed Win bets only. Place a fixed win bet on Flemington race 1 through 6 and get a bonus cash up to $50. Full terms apply. Login to Neds to Claim Promo Same Race Multi Pump up your odds by selecting 2 to 4 runners to finish anywhere inside the top four, or select multiple runners to finish in the same position to create combos! Neds T&C’s Apply. Login to Neds to Claim Promo What betting markets will Neds offer on Crown Oaks day Neds Australia will have a bounty of betting markets available on Oaks Day, with these extending to your exotics, like mystery bets and first fours. Neds will also allow punters to place quaddie bets on the Flemington races on Thursday, with the four races set to be 6, 7, 8 and 9 on the card. This Australian racing bookmaker is also likely to have an early quaddie and all of your standard bet types, like win/place, trifectas, quinellas, exactas, trebles, daily doubles Unique bet types available at Neds for the running of the VRC Oaks include same-race multis, MBO bets and Blended bets. Does Neds.com.au have a free bet offer for new customers? While Neds does run a number of VRC Oaks Day promotions, free bets as an offer to open a new account are banned down under. Neds is also not running any VRC Oaks Day free bet offers for international customers. Neds.com.au Crown Oaks Day Referral code Horsebetting.com.au readers can use our exclusive Neds.com.au VRC Oaks Code: GETON Horse racing promotions View the full article

With some familiar connections involved, Central Kentucky-based sire Heart to Heart saw his first stakes winner Nov. 2 when 3-year-old colt Silent Heart posted a decisive victory in the $79,000 Showing Up Stakes on the turf at Gulfstream Park.View the full article

8th-Churchill Downs, $132,695, Alw, 11-6, (NW2$X), 3yo/up, 7 1/2f, 1:28.66, sy, head. LIBERAL ARTS (c, 3, Arrogate–Ismene {MSW, $236,990}, by Tribal Rule) entered the Triple Crown trail with a 2 3/4-length score in this track's GIII Street Sense Stakes last fall ahead of a third to future GI Kentucky Derby hero Mystik Dan (Goldencents) in the GIII Southwest Stakes Feb. 3. Sixth, placed eighth, in the GI Arkansas Derby Mar. 30, the gray was last seen finishing a well-beaten sixth in the Apr. 13 GIII Stonestreet Lexington Stakes, his final appearance for trainer Robbie Medina. Resuming here under the care of Brad Cox, the easing 2-1 chalk was with the vanguard early while wide on the track and remained in touch for the run into the turn. With Awesome Aaron (Practical Joke) to catch entering the final furlong, the homebred claimed that one with time ticking away and outgamed Banishing (Ghostzapper) for a narrow victory. A half-brother to Nardini (Acclamation), MSP, $205,866; and to Ismelucky (Lucky Pulpit), SW, $167,062, Liberal Arts is the final listed produce for his stakes-winning dam. Lifetime Record: GSW, 9-3-1-3, $414,245. Click for the Equibase.com chart or VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. O/B-Stephen & Evan Ferraro (KY); T-Brad H Cox. #9 Liberal Arts was determined and gets the win in R8 at @churchilldowns under @luissaezpty for trainer @bradcoxracing! #TwinSpiresReplay pic.twitter.com/PZCUgTg5YJ — TwinSpires Racing (@TwinSpires) November 6, 2024 The post Grade III Winner Liberal Arts Returns a Winner at Churchill appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Coolmore announced Nov. 5 that Storm Boy, a son of Justify, will be transferred from Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott at Tulloch Lodge in Australia to Ireland, where he is set to continue his career under the care of trainer Aidan O'Brien. View the full article

Breeders' Cup-winning owner Frank Calabrese, who took home 10 consecutive leading owner titles at Arlington Park starting in 2000 and bred late sire Fast Anna, passed away on his 96th birthday, Monday, Nov. 4 at his home in Park Ridge, Illinois. A pioneer in the printing, Calabrese founded FCL Graphics in 1973 and sold the business in 2004. The avid horseplayer ran under FCC stables and paired primarily with trainer Wayne Catalano. With homebred Dreaming of Anna (Rahy), the duo won the 2006 GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies at Woodbine, which earned her an Eclipse Award. The champion 2-year-old would go to the breeding shed for Calabrese where she was responsible for Fast Anna, the sire of MGISW Thorpedo Anna. According to Equibase, Calabrese alone started 6,180 horses and visited the winner's circle 1,853 times, which put him in the top five among all North American owners on eight occasions. His career earnings over 24 years are listed at over $34 million. Calabrese is survived by his oldest son Frank Calabrese; son Carmen Calabrese, daughter-in-law Jane, grandchildren Nicole (Paul) Tenorio, Sam (Liz) Calabrese, and Matt (Addie) Calabrese, and great-grandchildren Jane, Vinny, Ben, Dominic, and Joey; youngest son Lewis Calabrese, daughter-in-law, Linnea, and grandsons Frank Calabrese II and Nicholas Calabrese; siblings Anna Anderson, Carl Calabrese, and Josephine DeVivo. He was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Louise “Liz” Calabrese, née Maddalone. A visitation will be held Thursday, Nov. 7 from 9:30 a.m. CT until prayers at 11:00 a.m CT at Ryan-Parke Funeral Home, 120 S. Northwest Highway, Park Ridge, Illinois followed by an 11:30 a.m. CT Mass of Christian Burial at Saint Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, 320 S. Washington Street, Park Ridge, Illinois. Interment will follow at Town of Maine Cemetery, Park Ridge, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The post Frank Calabrese Passes Away, Illinois Horseman And Breeder Of Fast Anna appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A filly by young sire Starman (GB) (lot 325) topped the second session of the Goffs Autumn Yearling Sale at €50,000 on Wednesday. Secured by Peter and Ross Doyle Bloodstock from The Castlebridge Consignment, the chestnut is out of the placed Frankel (GB) mare Beloved (Ire), who is a half-sister to G1 Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) winner and sire Deep Brillante (Jpn) (Deep Impact {Jpn}). Ross Doyle said of his purchase, “She's a very nice racy filly–we've bought three or four Starmans already and we like what we see physically. It's a strong pedigree on the dam's side, and she's out of a Frankel mare which might give a further boost. She will go into training with Richard Hannon.” Four lots made €40,000 or higher, with lot 391, a daughter of Kodiac (GB), making €45,000 from Tally-Ho Stud where her sire stands. The Knockatrina House Stud draft member is out of a half-sister to the multiple group-placed Black Mambazo (Ire) (Statue Of Liberty) and fellow stakes winner Diglett (Ire) (One Cool Cat). Lot 462 went to Andy Oliver for €44,000 from the Staffordstown consignment. The son of Lope De Vega (Ire) is a half-brother to G3 Prix des Chenes third My Kurkum (GB) (Dariyan {Fr}). His dam is a full-sister to dual listed winner Green Sweet (Smart Strike), and a half to two-time group winner Shaman (Ire) (Shamardal), second in the G1 Prix Jacques le Marois and G1 Poule d'Essai des Poulains and third in the G1 Prix Ganay. The fourth and final lot priced at €40,000 was lot 429, a son of Starman that changed hands to Oak Tree Farm. The relative of G2 Duke of Cambridge Stakes heroine Duntle (Ire) (Danehill Dancer {Ire}) and her son, three-time Group 1 winner and sire Circus Maximus (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) was offered by Abban Farm. Starman has averaged €18,077 and grossed €235,000 for 13 yearlings sold. Overall, 190 yearlings sold from 243 offered (78%). The gross was €1,491,400, while the average was €7,850 and the median was €5,500. The sale continues at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 7 and includes 27 supplementary entries to be offered as lots 791 to 820. Among them are 13 yearlings eligible for the 2025 Goffs Two Million Series which offers a guaranteed prize fund of €2,000,000 in the Goffs €1-Million Bonus Race Series, as well as Europe's richest two-year-old race, the Goffs Million. Lot 800 meanwhile is eligible for the lucrative Harry's Half Million at York next year. The post Starman Filly Heads The Second Session Of The Goffs Autumn Yearling Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

It was quite a few days for Canadian-based trainer Kevin Attard. On Saturday, he won his first Breeders' Cup race with Moira (Ghostzapper) in the GI Maker's Mark Filly & Mare Turf and some 48 hours later she went through the ring for $4.3 million. Knowing he'd have plenty to say, we invited Attard to join us on this week's TDN Writers' Room Podcast presented by Keeneland. He admitted that saying goodbye to the best horse he has ever trained was difficult. “Well, right now it's extremely difficult, no doubt about it.” Attard said. “You know, for our stable, our barn, these type of horses don't come by often. Then you get a horse that did so many firsts like she did. There's obviously that sentimental attachment and love for her. Cultivating it all in the Breeders' Cup was a dream come true in a sense. Now to have to kind of watch her go, that has been one of the most hardest things I've had to do in horse racing. The love and the bond that you grow for these horses, it's hard to explain. And I don't think people realize how much we care for these animals, how much we appreciate them.” Moira gave Attard his first win in the Queen's Plate (now the King's Plate), his first Canadian Horse of the Year and is in a strong position to win this year's Eclipse Award for North America's champion turf filly and mare. Ironically, she is not eligible for any Sovereign Award in Canada because she did not compete the minimum of three times in her home country, which is the requirement. When asked if he thought the rule was fair, Attard said that he did not. “I don't, to be honest,” he said. “Unfortunately, under the criteria, as you mentioned, for the Sovereign Awards, she is not eligible. I'm hoping that the Jockey Club of Canada that looks after the Sovereign Awards does something to honor and recognize her. Obviously, the seventh Canadian bred to win a Breeders' Cup race in history is pretty special. I think that alone tells you the significance and how important of a Canadian bred she is. “As it stands right now, she has a very good opportunity to become the Eclipse Award winner,” Attard said. “Who would have ever imagined that when Donato Lanni put this group together to buy a Canadian-bred to try to win a Queen's Plate that this would happen? Here we are winning a Breeders' Cup race and now, possibly, an Eclipse Award. Like how surreal is that? I almost want to pinch myself to make sure I am not dreaming.” Apparently Moira has her quirks and Attard has mentioned that she can be a handful. She must also be pretty smart because she can tell when it's a race day, he said. “On a regular day when you get her ready to go out and train in the mornings, you can put the saddle on easily,” Attard said. “I can throw the bridle over her head very easy. On race day, after let's say 12 o'clock, anytime after 12, you try to put that bridle on, she just knows it's game time. It's a fight getting it on her, getting the tongue tie on, too. She just knows on race day she's doing something different. “And we've even tried to trick her,” said Attard. “We've literally put the saddle on her before sending her over just to try to trick her into thinking she's just going out to train. And still, she's just smarter than we are. She knows. She's just a real cool horse, a real special horse. Just a top performer that was so consistent and brought it each and every time.” 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, XBTV.com, and the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association, the team of Randy Moss, Zoe Cadman and Bill Finley reviewed several Breeders' Cup races, including the eventful GI Longines Breeders' Cup Classic. While all three applauded the effort of race winner Sierra Leone (Gun Runner), the conclusion was that runner-up Fierceness (City of Light) was the best horse that day because he held on so well after chasing a brutally fast pace. In trying to understand why City of Troy (Justify) ran so poorly in the Classic, Moss said it was simple because he is a grass horse who wanted no part of dirt racing. The team also congratulated Thorpedo Anna (Fast Anna) for her win in the GI Longines Breeders' Cup Distaff, where she likely clinched the Horse of the Year title. Finally, Moss returned to the subject of using GPS tracking for fractional times–like at Del Mar–and how the numbers are often incorrect. To watch the TDN Writers' Room, click here. To view the show as a podcast, click here. The post Kevin Attard 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

Klaravich Stables' Oversubscribed heads a field of 3-year-old fillies in the Nov. 8 Pebbles Stakes (G3T) at Aqueduct Racetrack. View the full article

What was worth noting from all over the country, including the pre Cup trials, for the week ending 7/11/2024 Kevin Kline (2g Always B Miki – Matai Mies) Tr. R Green Pukekohe (31/10/240 In a three horse heat, the Green trained 2YO led from gate rise and did enough to hold Makorori (trail) out with a sharp last 800m. MR:2:02.7, 800m in 57.7, 400m in 28.0. Unplaced in a couple of 2YO races, the last back in August but like many by his sire, should get better with time. Dam was a handy mare, winning 6 and has done a good job as a broodmare leaving 5 winners, 4 of which have achieved black type. ‘Kevin’ looks well capable of adding to his mum’s breeding record. Aldebaran What (3g Tactical Landing – U Dream) Tr.Wallis/Hackett Straight to the front over four rivals and proved far superior (mistakes by those rivals didn’t help their efforts) but officially 38 1/2L back to the second horse. MR:2:12.7, 800m in 61.2, 400m in 30.4. Not sighted since April when unplaced in the 3YO Harness Millions ‘listed’ race but bred to be above average and on this effort could be ready to show his true worth. Owned by a number of high profile harness participants. Twisted Sister (2f Bettor’s Delight – Double Twist) Tr. M White Led and stayed on strongly to keep two rivals at bay in this qualifying heat. MR:2:04.9, 800m in 59.8, 400m in 29.3. Another with plenty of breeding to support her potential racing career. Dam a half to Twist And Twirl who has left the likes of King Of Swing and Bettor Twist. This filly is the third foal of her dam and earlier foals in Double Time (7 wins) & Twista (3 wins) have impressed on the track to date Here’s Johny (2g Johny Rock – Abbey Row) Tr. P Hunter Winton (1/11/24) Soon in front over 2 rivals, not extended to stay in front. MR:2:04.0, 800m in 57.7, 400m in 29.4. Thereabouts in all 8 starts to date but with only a couple of placings to show for his efforts. Has improved with the racing and certainly good enough to snare a win in the deep south all things being equal Always Ticking (3f Always B Miki – Happy Ticker) Tr. B Gray Got to the front and always going well, stayed on strongly to keep Falcon’s Watch out by 1/2L. MR:2:03.0, 800m in 57.7, 400m in 29.0. Hasn’t started since early June but has always looked above average, winning 2 from 14 starts and another 10 top 4 placings. Likely to get her chance in the 3YO fillies specials if she comes back as expected in her best form Dallas Dale (3g Fear The Dragon – Roxy Dale) Tr. K Green Wyndham (2/11/24) Sped to the lead soon after the start, always going well, came clear of 4 rivals last 100m for impressive win. Last 800m in 61.8, 400m in 30.7. Had just the four race day starts for a couple of minor placings but the nature of this performance suggested that a maiden win would not surprise in the deep south in the coming weeks. Interest in the run of the former Tony Herlihy trained pacer Harold Hanover, now with Earl Swain. Trailed 3 deep before angling out at the 400m to challenge, looked likely final turn but off stride soon after and officially fifth of five. Rakamick (2g Always B Miki – Raksbet) Tr. C Barron In front after 200m, worked clear to be on his own first lap, gaps closed from 1000m, kept up strong run to stay clearly in front MR:2:06.3, 800m in 60.5, 400m in 31.3. Already the veteran of seven 2YO starts, several against the best of his age group and not disgraced. Like many of the Mikis, should get better with time and will prove competitive in any southern maiden field at least. Ginerva (2f Bettor’s Delight) made up good ground from well back at the 600m for 2nd. Qualified back in May but yet to make her race debut. Amaretto Franco (4m Terror To Love – Aziza) Tr. S McRae Motukarara (2/11/24) Settled fourth of 6, improved to lead 1200m, kept up strong run to prove too good for her 5 rivals. MR:2:13.1, 800m in 61.0, 400m in 28.0 (grass track). Has fashioned a good record winning four from just 13 starts and particularly against her own sex, should prove very competitive. Astute trainer might even consider taking her down south to the Central Otago circuit over the Xmas/New Year period. Should not be underestimated wherever she lines up. Delightingold (2f Bettor’s Delight – Return To Gold) Tr. S McRae Went as well as her breeding might suggest, heading off seven rivals with a strong last 400m, settled sixth of 8 then third line outer last 800m, sustained finish to get over the top of her rivals. Not yet qualified but rates as a half to the good mare Spellbound (14 wins) and several other handy winners. Dam was also handy winning four. Last 800m in 64.0, 400m in 28.5 (grass track). Looks a strong prospect to make a racehorse when that opportunity comes around. Winnyzback (4g Franco Ledger – Ferry Glide) Tr. A Faulks Straight into trail, eased to sit parked 600m, got in deciding strides over pacemaker Franco Tim final 50m. While overall time nothing flash, the closing 800m/400m suggested that he could be a horse to follow in the coming weeks. Last 800m in 60.0, 400m in 28.0 (grass track). Lightly raced to date winning three of 15 starts but has shown his best form around this time of the year previously and deserves respect when next lining up. Has been freshened since last start placing behind Borrisokane. Ultimate Rush (3f Ultimate Machete – Always Rushing) Tr. V Sell Oamaru (2/11/24) Did best in this qualifier over two rivals, showing ‘good lick’ when it mattered MR:2:05.5, 800m in 57.6. By an underrated sire who deserves more of a go based upon what he has done to date, this filly has some very good relations albeit some generations back. This was a family developed successfully by the Sellars family and included cup class pacers in Sassenach (12 wins), Ryal (9 wins) & Stampede (11 wins). Look out for her. Tabasco (4g Bettor’s Delight – Saucy Cullen) Tr. B Williamson Time honours on the day proving too good for just two rivals. MR:2:02.0, 800m in 56.4. Has won the three races but recently mixing his form when asked to compete at Addington on Friday nights. The ‘South of the Waitaki’ race at Addington on Show day looks an ideal platform to re-ignite the form line where he will get to face familiar opposition from his own stomping ground. Dash Dosh (2f Trixton – Dosh) Tr. T Bagrie Addington/NZ Cup trials (6/11/24). Straight to the front, always going well, cleared out from the 400m over 3 rivals, officially by 12 1/4L MR:2:05.9, 800m in 58.2, 400m in 28.8. Has had just the three race day starts for a couple of minor placings, the last in late August behind the unbeaten Habibti Pat. Dam a half to the smart Bordeaux (11 wins) and the second dam won 6. Held in some regard by her connections and that maiden win doesn’t look all that far away especially on this trial effort. Meant To Be (2g Father Patrick – Luby Lou) Tr. Purdon / Phelan Settled fifth of 6, secured 1×1 drag into the race last 800m, challenged final turn, too strong final stages MR;2:04.8, 800m in 59.9, 400m in 29.8. Has won three of 6 and proven to be right up there with the best of his age group, nothing likely to change going forward. Some good runs in behind. Habibti Pat led winner up at the 800m, not knocked around to hold 2nd. Run of race from Ya Rite Darl after breaking in score up and losing a ton of ground, made contact with the bunch 600m out and had the cheek to run on close up in 4th less than 2L from winner. Higher Power , stablemate of the winner, began well to trail only to break 1100m out and lost all chance. Stella Rouge (2f Bettor’s Delight – Lady Gilpin) Tr. S & A Telfer Soon in front, sprinted sharply from the 400m & way too good for her four rivals. MR:2:02.9, 800m in 57.7, 400m in 27.8. Looks a filly with plenty of bottom, has already won the two from 5 starts and likely to be key player in the 2YO filly specials. Northern visitor Hot And Dangerous raced in fourth position then made ground in good style last 200m to snare second, deserves respect when next at the races. Got The Chocolates (2g Art Major – Kate Black) Tr. R & J Dunn Trailed Captain Sampson in four-horse field, out at the top of the lane to finish best with plenty left in the tank. Last 800m in 59.6, 400m in 28.9. Cards kept close to the chest here with a rather slow time for this class of horse. On Cup day, has drawn the inside of second line behind ‘Captain’ (4 wins from 5 starts) and therefore likely to get a similar run in the big 2yo race. Marketplace sat on the back of the winner then sprinted up to get within a 1/2L of the Dunn runner. Unfortunately for him he has drawn the outside gate on Tuesday but does have the class to overcome it with some luck in the running. Revolution (3g Courage Under Fire – Paddy Me) Tr. C & J DeFilippi Straight to the front & always going well, too strong over final stages, impressive. MR:2:00.7, 800m in 57.1, 400m in 28.5. Has disappointed in four race day starts but freshened since last racing and has looked above average on more than one occasion, punters should stick with him. Miki B ran solidly for second while Ukraine raced in midfield and never elected to challenge at any time, finished under his own steam Hes From Heaven (3c Sweet Lou – Dreams From Heaven) Tr. J Tubbs (Aust) Soon in front, still there final turn, headed, came back to nose out The Big Lebowski (trail) and Princess Meritaten (3 deep) who both shaped attractively. MR:1:57.5, 800m in 55.5, 400m in 28.1. The Aussie visitor already the winner of eight from just 15 starts and not to be underestimated when he lines up on race day. Top filly Duchess Megxit sat in fourth then made ground over final 200m on a fast last 800m. No doubting her class but she will need all of that to overcome her horror draw on Tuesday. Dynasty (3f Rocknroll Hanover – Special Rose) Tr. R Butt Midfield mostly, looking for room 250m, never saw daylight in the straight (heat won by a pacemaking Neverseentherain) MR:2:00.5, 800m in 57.7, 400m in 29.0. Found Stella Rouge too good last time but that was no disgrace and gets her chance to go one better on Cup Day in Race 2. The Reid trained pair Next Level (trail) and Bazooka both shaped well. The latter made an early mistake and settled in the rear, ran on with purpose as did Borrisokane who ran on from the rear when the race all but over Classic Elegance (3f Art Major – Sloane Square) Tr. R Butt Got to trail Shake A Leg, out to attack final turn, did enough to outpoint that runner last 50m but both shaped attractively MR:2:008, 800m in 57.4, 400m in 28.7. Classic Elegance has a good draw in the Nevele R Fillies final to use, Shake A Leg perhaps better than a runners chance in Race 2 despite a second line draw. Quinn who hasn’t started for almost a year sat fourth then not pulled out in the run home. Smart on debut, only the three runs to date and has a stable reputation. The Lazarus Effect (3g Lazarus – Brook Street) Tr. R Butt Away smartly and soon in front, always going well, won with ‘a leg in the air’ as they say, last 800m in 57.3, 400m in 28.0. One start for one win and looks very capable of doubling up on cup day for his large group of owners. Commander Joe sat in the 1×1 and never was asked for an effort in the run home. Tyron Eros (3g Majestic Son – Tyron’s Aphrodite) Tr. R & J Dunn Gradually worked his way to the front and from the bell, turned heat into a procession, winning officially by 12 1/2L at the line. MR:2:01.3, 800m in 59.1, 400m in 30.3. His big assignment is on the Friday and judging by this effort is going to take all kinds of beating. Already has $117k in the bank with 5 wins from 11 starts Just Believe (8g Orlando Vici – Heaven’s Above) Tr. J Tubbs (Aust) The champ content to sit third of 6 in single file, challenged top of the straight, found one better in I Dream Of Jeannie (trail) but under a big hold at the line and obviously could have gone a lot faster. Last 800m in 58.4, 400m in 30.1. This trial would have him cherry ripe for the Dominion where he has drawn well, most certainly the one to beat. 37 wins to date and closing in on $2M in stakes ! Chase A Dream (3c Captaintreacherous – Secret Lotion) Tr. M & N Purdon Slowest of the five but quickly recovered and in front after 400m, too good for Cup contender Franco Marek who put plenty of dash into his finish from three deep. MR:2:03.1, 800m in 56.1, 400m in 28.3. Ten wins from just 15 starts says it all and he is one very smart racehorse. Beach Ball began safely and raced in fourth, finished on without being pushed, form line looks bleak but placed in the cup last year and his run in the Ashburton Flying Stakes after missing away was full of merit. Another cup contender Dalton Shard fifth of 5 throughout and never got close enough to threaten. His good manners have been negated by a poor draw on Tuesday. To see previous Trials Reports click here View the full article

By Jonny Turner Win, lose, or draw Kerryn Tomlinson will notch another milestone in her harness racing career on Thursday. The Oamaru horsewoman will line up her first starter as a trainer at her home track in race 5, the Brad Williamson Racing Stables Mobile pace. Tomlinson has plenty of experience preparing horses at Brad Williamson’s stable, but at Thursday’s Oamaru meeting she will put her name up in lights for the first time. “I am looking forward to it, I have got a couple of horses in work and hopefully they can win a few races,” Tomlinson said. Tomlinson’s first starter will be Dare Devil who looks a big winning threat on what he’s shown at the races. However, the pacer must overcome starting from the outside of the front line in barrier 8. “He has had plenty of work and I have been happy with him.” “The only worry is that he has only had the one trial, so he doesn’t have that race fitness yet.” “He should go a pretty good race, but he will definitely improve with the run.” Tomlinson has a handy book of outside drives including Cody Banner who comes into Race 6, the Grass Track 11th December From 4pm Handicap Trot, on the back of a solid second at Ascot Park. “Hopefully he will like being back on a bigger track, he didn’t trot as well as he can around Invercargill.” “He should be a good chance, it looks like he will have to work from the 20m mark.” “But if he gets not a bad run, he should be right there in that field.” Feta Go Fernco looks another solid hope for Tomlinson who will try to bag a penalty-free win with the pacer. “She was a bit green last start or she would’ve finished closer.” “I drove her at the trials before that run and she went good.” “From one she should hopefully get a nice run and be a good chance.” Monsignor looks another handy chance for Tomlinson at her home track. “I haven’t driven him before but his last start was good and it is an even field so hopefully he can go good.” The reinswoman also combines with Fourth Amendment in race 7 (7.37pm), the To Book Your Xmas Party Call 027 4819424 Mobile Pace. View the full article

Observations on the European Racing Scene turns the spotlight on the best European races of the day, highlighting well-bred horses early in their careers, horses of note returning to action and young runners that achieved notable results in the sales ring. Thursday's Observations features a son of Pride (Fr) (Peintre Celebre). 15.20 Newcastle, Nov, £6,300, 2yo, 8f 5y (AWT) Charlie Johnston-trained newcomer PRIDE OF DONEGAL (IRE) (Saxon Warrior {Ire}) is a son of G1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe runner-up and three-time Group 1 winner Pride (Fr) (Peintre Celebre) and thus a half-brother to dual Group 2-winning G1 Hong Kong Vase third One Foot In Heaven (Ire) (Fastnet Rock {Aus}). The 100,000gns Tattersalls October Book 2 graduate encounters 11 rivals in this straight one-mile test. They feature Shadwell debutant Yaa Min (GB) (Frankel {GB}), a 370,000gns Tattersalls December foal, who is a Roger Varian-conditioned half-brother to four-time German Group 3 winner Wonderful Moon (Ger) (Sea The Moon {Ger}). 18.30 Chelmsford City, Nov, £10,000, 2yo, 10f (AWT) Godolphin's AEGEAN PRINCE (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}) is a homebred son and the first foal out of G3 Prix de la Grotte victrix and G1 Prix de Diane and G1 Prix Vermeille runner-up Musis Amica (Ire) (Dawn Approach {Ire}). The Charlie Appleby trainee's six rivals include Ollie Sangster's similarly unraced Kentucky River (Ire) (Camelot {GB}), who is a half-brother to G1 Melbourne Cup and G1 Grosser Preis von Berlin-winning sire Protectionist (Ger) (Monsun {Ger}). The post Son Of Arc Runner-Up Pride To Face 11 In Newcastle Debut appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

There are five horse racing meetings set for Australia on Thursday, November 7. Our racing analysts here at horsebetting.com.au have found you the best bets and the quaddie numbers for Flemington & Hawkesbury. Thursday’s Free Horse Racing Tips – November 7, 2024 Flemington Racing Tips Hawkesbury Racing Tips As always, there are plenty of promotions available for Australian racing fans. Check out all the top online bookmakers to see what daily promotions they have. If you are looking for a new bookmaker for the horse racing taking place on November 7, 2024 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 prepared to lose 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. 2 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 3 Say Hey to the social bet! Dabble Have a Dabble with friends! Join Dabble Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? Full terms. Recommended! Bet365 Signup Code GETON 4 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. 5 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. 6 Bet With A Boom BoomBet Daily Racing Promotions – Login to view! Join Boombet Review 18+ Gamble responsibly. Think. Is this a bet you really want to place. Full terms. Horse racing tips View the full article

Tickets for the 90th Opening Day at Santa Anita Park on Thursday, Dec. 26 are now available online, the track said via a press release on Wednesday. The day will include an array of events and entertainment, plus racegoers will receive a free 2025 wall calendar which features the 13 top moments in the history of Santa Anita as voted on by the public. With a first post set for 11:00 a.m. PT, general admission is available for $10, and premium box seats and Loge Box Seats are also available for purchase. Among the several planned activities is a Craft Beer Festival held on the track apron and a Whiskey in Winter in the upscale Chandelier Room, which features tastings, live music and more. Walk-up general admission tickets will be available for $20. For 1/ST REWARDS members with their loyalty card, the general admission cost is $5, and that is the same price for admission to the infield. The post Santa Anita Opening Day Tickets For Dec. 26 On Sale Now appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

After watching his promising 2-year-old filly, Quickick, rally for third in the Nov. 1 Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1) at Del Mar, owner Greg Tramontin turned his attention to the November Breeding Stock Sale and expanding his broodmare band.View the full article

Longtime Illinois horseman and Breeders' Cup-winning owner and breeder Frank Carl Calabrese died at his home in Park Ridge, Ill., Nov. 4, his 96th birthday.View the full article

Every week, the TDN posts a roundup of the relevant Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA) related rulings from around the country. This week's rulings include three lengthy suspensions. Trainer Francisco Ramos has been banned for two years and fined $25,000 after his trainee You're a Dandy (Mizzen Mast) who finished second at Hawthorne Feb. 14, tested positive for the bronchodilator Clenbuterol. According to a final decision by the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit (HIWU), Ramos apparently requested a B sample analysis but did not pay for it, which meant the B sample was ultimately waived. Ramos also reportedly failed to respond to the equine anti-doping charges levelled at him within the allotted time frame, therefore the charges were issued to him by default. The two-year ban started on May 30 this year. Veterinarian Nicola Hardgrove has been suspended for 18-months and fined $12,500 after she was found in possession of Arsil, a banned substance, at Los Alamitos on July 23. According to HIWU, Arsil is an arsenic- containing pharmacological substance manufactured in Mexico. It's reportedly used in the treatment of stomach problems like ulcers. The case was resolved without a final hearing. Hardgrove's ban started on Sept. 11. And trainer Emma Jimenez Sanchez has been banned 18-months and fined $12,500 after she was found in possession of Adenosine Monophosphate (AMP)–a banned substance that is used as a dietary supplement to boost immune activity–during a barn search at Horseshoe Indianapolis Racetrack on July 30. The case was resolved without a final hearing. Her ban began on Sept. 24. NEW HISA/HIWU STEWARDS RULINGS The following rulings were reported on HISA's “rulings” portal and through the HIWU “pending” and “resolved” cases portals. Resolved ADMC Violations Date: 11/04/2024 Licensee: Clarence King, trainer Penalty: 7-day period of Ineligibility for Covered Person, beginning on Nov. 5, 2024; Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $1,000; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: Medication violation for the presence of Flunixin–controlled medication (Class C)–in a sample taken from Teewinot Pass, who won at Parx Racing on 7/3/24. Date: 11/04/2024 Licensee: Rodolphe Brisset, trainer Penalty: 7-day period of Ineligibility for Covered Person, beginning on Nov. 5, 2024; Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $1,000; imposition of 2 Penalty Points. Final decision by Internal Adjudication Panel. Explainer: Medication violation for the presence of Lidocaine–Controlled Medication (Class B)–in a sample taken from Royal Spa, who finished second in the American Beauty Stakes on 2/3/24. Date: 11/01/2024 Licensee: Dr. Nicola Hardgrove, veterinarian Penalty: 18-month period of Ineligibility for Covered Person, beginning on Sept. 11, 2024; a fine of $12,500. Admission. Explainer: Possession of Arsil–a banned substance–for an event dated 7/23/24. Date: 10/30/2024 Licensee: Emma Jimenez Sanchez, trainer Penalty: 18-month period of Ineligibility for Covered Person, beginning on Sept. 24, 2024; a fine of $12,500. Admission. Explainer: Possession of Adenosine Monophosphate (AMP)–a banned substance–for an event dated 7/30/24. Date: 10/30/2024 Licensee: Francisco Ramos, trainer Penalty: 2-year period of Ineligibility for Covered Person, beginning on May 30, 2024; 14-month period of Ineligibility for Covered Horse, beginning on Apr. 14, 2024; Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results on Apr. 14, 2024 and May 5, 2024, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $25,000. Final decision by HIWU. Explainer: Medication violation for the presence of Clenbuterol–a banned substance except under strict uses–in a sample taken from You're a Dandy, who finished second at Hawthorne on 4/14/24. Pending ADMC Violations 11/06/2024, Kelly Von Hemel, trainer: Pending vets' list medication violation for the presence of Cannabidiol (CBD)–a controlled substance (Class B)–in a sample taken from Jackie Sparrow, who finished second at Prairie Meadows on 8/25/24. 11/06/2024, Phil D'Amato, trainer: Pending vets' list medication violation for the presence of Methamphetamine–a banned substance–in a sample taken from Thebestisyettobe on 8/1/24. 11/04/2024, Cirilo Gorostieta, trainer: Pending vets' list medication violation for the presence of Tramadol–a controlled substance (Class B)–in a sample taken from Certain Victor E, who finished second at Belterra Park on 9/26/24. 11/05/2024, Chief Stipe O'Neill, trainer: Alleged use or attempted use of a Class C controlled medication on I'llhaveanotherwon during the race period on 8/24/24. 11/04/2024, Thomas Molloy, trainer: Pending vets' list medication violation for the presence of Acepromazine–a controlled substance (Class B)–in a sample taken from Lucy's Cakes Fly on 8/25/24. 11/01/2024, Jeff Hudson, trainer: Pending vets' list medication violation for the presence of Flunixin–a controlled substance (Class C)–in a sample taken from Lenda Hand on 10/2/24. 11/01/2024, Kevin Eikleberry, trainer: Pending vets' list medication violation for the presence of Magnesium Sulfate–a controlled substance (Class B)–in a sample taken from Alexiana, who won at Prairie Meadows on 9/28/24 11/01/2024, Efron Loza Jr., trainer: Provisional suspension for a vets' list medication violation for the presence of Clenbuterol–a banned substance except in strict circumstances–in samples taken from Lucago on 8/5/24 and again on 9/3/24. 10/30/2024, Bob Hess, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of Tranexamic Acid–a controlled substance (Class C)–in a sample taken from Handy Dandy, who won at Del Mar on 8/25/24. Violations of Crop Rule One important note: HISA's whip use limit is restricted to six strikes during a race. Churchill Downs Mitchell Lee Murrill–violation date Nov. 2; One-day suspension, $750 fine Del Mar Juan Hernandez–violation date Oct. 31; Two-day suspension, $1,000 fine Fanduel Sportsbook and Horse Racing Víctor Jadhir Bailon–violation date Oct. 31; one-day suspension, $250 fine Horseshoe Indianapolis Yoel Navas–violation date Oct. 31; $100 fine Mahoning Valley Gaddiel Alberto Martínez colon–violation date Nov. 4; One-day suspension, $250 fine The post Weekly Stewards and Commissions Rulings, Oct. 31-Nov. 6 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

It was announced on Wednesday that 1,574 of the world's best cricketers had registered their availability for the 2025 Indian Premier League, including a certain James Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket-taker who, in a surprise move, has put himself in contention to play in the competition for the first time in his long and illustrious career at the age of 42. In equine terms, imagine Dubawi (Ire), arguably the most influential British-based sire of his era, being volunteered to move on to another major racing jurisdiction because he's been deemed surplus to requirements by Darley as he prepares to turn 23 on the first of next year. Now, we all know that that's never going to happen to our beloved Dubawi, but the management team at Darley–think Ben Stokes, Brendon McCullum and Rob Key–were forced into making a tough decision with another member of their roster recently, namely Territories (Ire), who was put on the same flight Anderson will make early next year having been sold to continue his stallion career at Poonawalla Stud Farms in India. It's been a common direction of travel in recent years when it comes to the next generation of stallion talent that Europe has to offer, both those who are already proven at the top level and those who haven't been given the opportunity to prove themselves at all. Like Territories, the sire of three individual Group 1 winners, including this year's Prix Maurice de Gheest hero Lazzaat (Fr), Tasleet (GB) had already produced an elite performer in Bradsell (GB) when he was moved on to pastures new. He covered his first book of mares at Dr. Anhad Sidhu's Star Born Stud in Punjab earlier this year, before Bradsell bolstered his reputation with two further Group 1 wins in the Nunthorpe Stakes and Flying Five Stakes. Then in the other corner you have horses like Asymmetric (Ire) and Mutasaabeq (GB), both of whom have been announced as new additions to the Indian stallion ranks for 2025, before their first European-conceived foals have even hit the ground. The reaction from many breeders to this succession of exports has been similar to that of many English cricket fans when Anderson's enforced retirement from Test cricket was announced earlier this year. And, like so often on the cricketing field, it's India who have come out as the winners in the eyes of many–or so it may appear. “In India, it's a bit crazy because these investments don't actually reflect the true health of the racing industry,” counters Gaurav Rampal, who is a leading bloodstock agent in India and did the deal to bring Mutasaabeq to Poonawalla, as well as being the Indian representative for Tattersalls. He continues, “The commercial angle to these investments might not justify this euphoria, especially at the kind of levels that Territories and Mutasaabeq were bought, but then they were bought by the Poonawallas, a wealthy family. They are commercial breeders and it's a prestige business for them. “Foal numbers in India are down and the big studs don't share their stallions. And the other thing is that you're going out of fashion very quickly if you're not firing in the first crop. That's why some of the farms are not shying away from having a back-up stallion in place well in advance.” That last sentiment essentially sums up the approach of Surbirinder Singh Sidhu of Mebajeona Stud Farm and the Northern Lights Stallion Syndicate he's involved in, consisting of four farms who have joined forces to try and compete with the bigger operations. Asymmetric, who won the G2 Richmond Stakes for Alan King as a two-year-old, is their latest addition to a roster which also features Cable Bay (Ire), the sire of Dragon Symbol (GB)–the first past the post in the 2021 edition of the G1 Commonwealth Cup–among others during his time at Highclere Stud in Britain. “We have a syndicate of four partners, four different stud farms, who have teamed up together to find new stallions,” Sidhu says of the syndicate's methodology. “The reason we have teamed up together is so that we can support our stallions with adequate numbers for them to be able to compete well in the market. Before we were all buying individual horses and the numbers just weren't enough for the stallions to make a dent.” He adds, “We're clear that we want to keep adding a stallion every two years, even if we hit upon success, so that we can continue to improve the gene pool that we have. We want to reach a situation where we're never short of a stallion who is not proven. “That's how we're managing the whole thing and we're also in the process of improving our broodmare band. We are bringing in better mares every year to support these stallions and to improve the operations of all four farms that are involved.” As for Territories, he is likely to cover between 50 and 60 mares with the crème de la crème of the Poonawalla broodmare band queueing up to visit him next year. That's according to Ajay Anne of New Approach Bloodstock, the man who brokered the deal to bring the son of Invincible Spirit (Ire) to India, as well as Tasleet. “He will get the best that Mr. Poonawalla has,” Anne confirms. “He will get top-level mares so far as India is concerned and we've got a few top-class mares internationally as well. I bought [G3 City Of York Stakes winner] Nemoralia at Tattersalls last year and Mr. Poonawalla actually bought [G1 Fillies' Mile runner-up] September yesterday from Keeneland for $600,000. He's obviously on a mission to buy the best he can and enjoy his racing.” Expanding on the decision to buy Territories, he adds, “I think we're looking for proven quality and there are not many stallions you can buy who are already performing at the top level. Mr. Poonawalla was very clear in his instructions that he's trying to buy these quality horse who could not be faulted–internationally and not just by Indian standards, as such. He's been in breeding for 40-odd years, so he knows exactly what he wants and what he has to pay for them. “There were two stallions in India, Razeen and Placerville, who were like the Northern Dancer and the Mr Prospector of India. They used to rule Indian racing for a long time, but there hasn't been a superstar stallion in India for a while–I really hope that Territories is a superstar. He has the credentials anyway, so we'll find out if he is.” Rampal concurs. He says, “For the last few years there hasn't been a dominant stallion or dominant farm in the country and that's another reason for the influx of these stallions because these big farms are looking for another good one.” He also gives a positive mention to a former Aidan O'Brien trainee owned in partnership by Nanoli Stud and Equus Stud. “Cougar Mountain is very encouraging,” he says. “He's had three crops of racing age and he's produced three Derby winners, so for me he is the hottest young stallion we have in the country. Interestingly, his first crop and his third crop were really small because at the beginning of the breeding season he ran into problems. Despite that he's got Group 1 horses in all three crops.” Coming up with three Group 1 winners from his early crops wasn't enough to keep Territories in Britain, nor the performance of his yearlings in 2024, featuring a full-brother to the G3 Railway Stakes third Masseto (GB) who sold to Sumbe for 750,000gns at the Book 2 of the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale. As for those breeders who sent mares to Asymmetric and Mutasaabeq this year, they suddenly find themselves in a very difficult position. It's a situation both Sidhu and Anne can sympathise with, whilst acknowledging the opportunities it provides for those overseas clients looking to recruit a young stallion with untapped potential. “For us to buy a horse like Asymmetric off the track would be impossible,” says Sidhu. “It's great value for us, to have these top-performing horses who are untapped and who still haven't had a baby to race. They could turn out to be anything. “But it's something that people who are invested in this industry in Europe have to be mindful of, because small breeders suddenly have a mare in foal to a stallion who has been exported to another country and they are left with a foal who is not going to make the kind of money that they thought they would.” Anne adds, “I think it's a very commercial market in Europe and people are breeding for the sales ring and not for racing. If you actually sit back and think, 'what do you want in a stallion?', there are a lot of stallions there who could probably do well, but if they don't do well in the ring, they're out. “That's when I think the opportunities are there for other countries to pick up those stallions. The likes of Tasleet and Prince Of Lir were doing pretty well, but they just weren't commercial enough for the European market. For us, they were the right type of stallions to buy at the right price. “It's a vicious circle, but Territories stood for £10,000 and they could sell for 750,000gns. They could sell for 20,000gns or 30,000gns as well, but there are a lot of £10,000 stallions who don't make that kind of level.” As for the economic pressures on home soil, the heady days of Razeen and Placerville are said to feel a long time ago if you're one of those people for whom Indian racing and bloodstock is your life, with the GST [Goods and Services Tax] imposed on bets placed in the country seemingly taking a heavy toll on its finances. “We're not in a very healthy position and that's because the government has come down very heavily on the GST which is imposed on the face value of the bet,” Sidhu explains. “With that what happens is that 28% of the money is lost as soon as a person places a bet. “The industry is trying to keep its head above water and there are a few good people who are supporting us, but the government needs to understand that the taxation is very heavy and they need to restructure it. If that can happen then this industry will grow because India is one of the most emerging markets in the world.” “The government need to help,” Anne agrees. “If people can bet on sports such as cricket or football, and they're still considered as a sport, then I don't see why they look at racing as only a gambling product. We are participating in a sport as well and there's a lot of hard work that goes into breeding horses, selling them, training them and the whole lot. I think that is a message that the industry needs to put across to the world. “The number of horses has probably halved in the last three or four years. It has changed in such a way that the demand is more than the supply, because the supply is not what it would have been five years ago. The foal numbers were between 1,800 and 2,000 in the good days of Indian racing, but now they're down to 800. “It's a struggle and I hope that people in the right places make the right decisions and don't let our sport die.” The post The Inside Story on India’s Succession of Stallion Imports appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

9th-CD, $120,000, Msw, 2yo, 1m, post time: 4:55 p.m. ET OH MONACO (Curlin), a $650,000 purchase out by John Stewart's Resolute Racing of last year's Keeneland September is a daughter Byrama (GB) (Byron {GB}), winner of the GI Vanity Handicap on synthetic and a dual stakes winner and multiple graded-placed performer on the grass. The mare's two winners to date include this colt's full-brother Known Agenda, third in the GII Remsen Stakes in 2020 and victorious in the GI Curlin Florida Derby the following spring. Known Agenda now holds court at Spendthrift Farm. TJCIS PPs The post Thursday Insights: Resolute ‘Gambles’ On Curlin Colt appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

According to a posting on the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit's (HIWU) website, top California trainer Phil D'Amato has had a horse test positive for the banned substance methamphetamine. The 4-year-old filly Thebestisyettobe (Ire) (Elzaam {Aus}) tested positive following an Aug. 1 workout at Los Alamitos. Before HIWU/HISA made changes to its rules regarding its Anti-Doping Medication and Control program, D'Amato would have been facing a suspension of up two years. Over time and in the face of criticism that it was charging trainers who had horses test positive for drugs like methamphetamine but did nothing wrong, HISA/HIWU has amended its rules. Only recently it largely abandoned the idea of provisional suspensions, which meant that a trainer could be charged and suspended before the case had been fully adjudicated. Its critics called it a matter of “guilty until proven innocent.” D'Amato and lawyer Drew Mollica decided to leave nothing to chance and Mollica said that the trainer has spent thousands of dollars doing his own investigation, which also involved Mollica devoting over 100 hours to the case. “When we found out in September that the horse had allegedly tested positive, we worked tirelessly and we found the source and provided all the information we compiled and sent it to HIWU and worked with them,” Mollica said. “We spent tens of thousands of dollars and this took up hundreds of hours. We tested every employee, traced everything back, and we found the source. “We also sent them documentation to show that since the inception of HISA/HIWU, Phil has had monthly meetings with his staff regarding protocols,” said Mollica. “Subsequent to this happening he has put up cameras at his Los Alamitos location. We provided them with expert opinions and provided them with all the history of Phil's due diligence. We worked with HIWU/HISA. I am glad they have taken the draconian and unconstitutional provisional suspension off the table. The horsemen's advisory group got that done. The other way, the old way, he's out the gate and that's not fair.” With provisional suspensions, for the most part, no longer a tool at HIWU's disposal, D'Amato has been able to train since the meth positive. But Mollica said he could still eventually be handed a 60-day suspension. “We feel Mr. D'Amato should be found to have no fault as he did everything humanly possible to protect horses in his care from human contamination,” Mollica said. “We feel he should not be punished at all. He did get a charge letter. I know they're working to change the rules. But we feel whatever the rules are, he is not at all at fault and should not be penalized.” Mollica believes that HISA/HIWU must do more when it comes to horses testing positive for illicit human drugs and find a solution where trainers can be exonerated when the facts point to a positive being a matter of human contamination. “We will continue to work with HIWU regarding this issue, but remain steadfast in our belief Mr. D'Amato bears no fault and should not be sanctioned for what we all know are trace findings of illicit human drugs which have no effect on a racehorse and no trainer would ever administer,” Mollica said. “In the final analysis the scourge of Methamphetamine is a reality not only on the backstretch of racetracks but in society. “The scourge of methamphetamine at the levels they test for, no matter what you do, will never go away,” said Mollica. “As for the industry, there's no way to trace amounts of illicit drugs, which are prevalent everywhere in society and at the racetrack, won't keep coming up. You can't blame someone for lightning hitting a tree.” The post D’Amato Hit With Meth Positive, But Lawyer Confident He Will Be Exonerated appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article