Wandering Eyes

Helene Feeling’s victory in city circuit’s sole Group race crowns veteran handler’s big night.View the full article

Amplify Horse Racing, which promotes education and career opportunities in the Thoroughbred industry for youth and young adults, is accepting applications for the spring 2025 intake of its mentorship program through Tuesday, Jan. 28, the nonprofit said in a release early Wednesday morning. The program offers an introductory step for young people interested in learning more about the Thoroughbred industry by pairing them with experienced professionals who provide valuable career guidance. The spring session will run from Mar. 1 through May 31. The suggested age range for mentee candidates is 15-25, with no restrictions based on academic achievement. The program is also accepting potential mentors who can demonstrate substantial and relevant experience in the Thoroughbred horse industry or an applied field, and can meet the program's minimum training requirements, background check and time commitment. All applicants must be residents of the United States, U.S. territories, or Canada. Mentees accepted into the program will also be eligible for travel grants through Amplify, enabling them to attend industry educational opportunities. These include a weekend of behind-the-scenes tours in Kentucky hosted by Amplify in November and the organization's annual end-of-year student networking event. “As a former mentee, I cannot overstate the profound impact Amplify has had on my journey,” said mentorship program graduate Eric Resendiz. “For newcomers, the Thoroughbred industry can sometimes feel intimidating, but through Amplify's mentorship program, I was able to establish a sense of familiarity with the industry thanks to my mentor. Completing the program gave me the confidence to navigate and network within the Thoroughbred industry, which has led to much of my success. Amplify's emphasis on engaging a younger demographic is exactly what the Thoroughbred industry needs to continue evolving as both an industry and a sport. Personally, I am very excited to take the next step in my career by traveling to Ireland this month to attend the Irish National Stud Breeding Course.” Click here to learn more. The post Amplify Accepting Applications For Spring Mentorship Program appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Through an international exchange program, Cody Watkins, a steward of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), will serve as The Jockey Club-appointed steward at the New York Racing Association (NYRA) racetracks beginning in early January 2025, according to a Wednesday press release from The Jockey Club of America. “This is an exciting opportunity for Thoroughbred racing in the U.S. and abroad,” said Stuart S. Janney III, chairman of The Jockey Club. “Racing is an international sport, and sharing ideas and information through programs such as this can only make the sport better. Cody was chosen from a deep pool of international and domestic candidates, and we couldn't be more pleased to have him join us here in the United States of America.” Watkins has been a steward in Britain for five years, including at some of its most prestigious race meets. “NYRA is a great opportunity for me as I am experienced in stewarding high-pressured and fast-paced racing, such as the Epsom Oaks, the Epsom Derby, and Glorious Goodwood, among other big race meetings we stage here in the United Kingdom,” Watkins said. “I also follow racing in America closely, and it will be an honor to expand my skillset and bring my experience to the U.S. as The Jockey Club's appointee among helping to officiate some of America's finest races.” Before working for the BHA, Watkins obtained a Level 1 from the British Racing School in Work Based Racehorse Care and Riding and in Introduction to the Horseracing Industry. The post Exchange Brings BHA’s Watkins To NYRA As Jockey Club Steward appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A look at the year's top trainers by North American statistical categoriesView the full article

Rising Stars accounted for a tally of 20 European Group 1 heats during the course of 2024, with City Of Troy (Justify), Bluestocking (GB) (Camelot {GB}), Lake Victoria (Ire) (Frankel {GB}), Notable Speech (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}) and Bradsell (GB) (Tasleet {GB}) all notching multiple victories at the highest level. Godolphin's Endless Victory (GB) (Teofilo {Ire}) set the ball rolling at Wolverhampton in February and TDN's signature tag was attained by 57 individuals in Europe last term, up six on 2023's total of 51. Dubawi (Ire) is the numerically dominant sire and responsible for seven new graduates, headed by Godolphin's G1 2000 Guineas and G1 Sussex Stakes victor Notable Speech (GB). Frankel (GB), sire of G1 Moyglare Stud Stakes, G1 Cheveley Park Stakes and GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf heroine Lake Victoria (Ire), was next best with five, sitting alongside Coolmore resident Wootton Bassett (GB), whose leading representative was G1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere victor Camille Pissarro (Ire). Blue Point (Ire), Kingman (GB), Lope De Vega (Ire) and Siyouni (Fr) were responsible for four Rising Stars apiece while Galileo (Ire), Gleneagles (Ire), Justify and No Nay Never were the only other sires to achieve more than one nominee. First-crop sires Far Above (Ire), Ghaiyyath (Ire) and Sottsass (Fr) also joined the honour roll with one Rising Star each. Expanding on the figures by jurisdiction, 22 earned their stripes in Britain, 21 were elevated in Ireland and France's total numbered 14. With the winter solstice fast disappearing in the rear-view mirror, and the forthcoming turf season just weeks away, this correspondent's five-to-follow for 2025 includes three once-raced juveniles and two Group 3 winners. BOWMARK (GB), c, 3, by Kingman (GB) 1st Dam: Bound (Ire) (SW-Ire), by Galileo (Ire) 2nd Dam: Remember When (Ire), by Danehill Dancer (Ire) 3rd Dam: Lagrion, by Diesis (GB) Owner: Lordship Stud Breeder: Lordship Stud Trainer: John & Thady Gosden It really is a quarter-century since Love Divine (GB) (Diesis {GB}) carried Lordship Stud's silks to glory in Epsom's G1 Oaks and the Newmarket nursery has another potential Classic contender in the ranks. John and Thady Gosden trainee Bowmark made his mark at Kempton in December, becoming the final addition to 2024's list of Rising Stars, and registered an impressive four-and-a-half-length rout going one mile under the lights. The homebred is out of a stakes-winning daughter of Oaks runner-up Remember When (Ire) (Danehill Dancer {Ire}), whose sextet of black-type performers includes Derby winner Serpentine (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}), Group 3-winning Bye Bye Baby (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) and Group 2 winner Wedding Vow (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}). COSMIC YEAR (GB), c, 3, by Kingman (GB) 1st Dam: Passage Of Time (GB) (G1SW-Fr, GSW & G1SP-Eng, GISP-US, $651,668), by Dansili (GB) 2nd Dam: Clepsydra (GB), by Sadler's Wells 3rd Dam: Quandary, by Blushing Groom (Fr) Owner: Juddmonte Breeder: Juddmonte Farms Ltd Trainer: Harry Charlton Juddmonte's Cosmic Year sidestepped a fast-ground maiden at Newbury in August and rewarded his connections' patience with a stunning display over seven furlongs at Sandown in September, taking control at the furlong pole and powering clear of toiling rivals to register a hugely impressive six-and-a-half-length debut success for the Harry Charlton stable. Cosmic Year is out of G1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud heroine Passage Of Time (GB) (Dansili {GB}), herself a full-sister to G2 King Edward VII Stakes-winning sire Father Time (GB) and a half to G1 Falmouth Stakes victrix Timepiece (GB) (Zamindar). The February-foaled homebred is a half-brother to dual Group 2-winning sire Time Test (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}), who placed three times at the highest level, and dual Group 3 winner Tempus (GB) (Kingman {GB}). THE LION IN WINTER (IRE), c, 3, by Sea The Stars (Ire) 1st Dam: What A Home (Ire) (GSP-Eng & SP-Fr), by Lope De Vega (Ire) 2nd Dam: Inchmahome (GB), by Galileo (Ire) 3rd Dam: Inchmurrin (Ire), by Lomond Sales history: €375,000 Ylg '23 GOFORB Owner: Michael Tabor, Derrick Smith & Mrs John Magnier Breeder: Sunderland Holding Inc Trainer: Aidan O'Brien Sea The Stars (Ire) (Cape Cross {Ire}), himself a TDN Rising Star, suffered his lone career defeat in the 2008 renewal of the Curragh's Juddmonte Chaldean Irish EBF Maiden and his son The Lion In Winter, a €375,000 Goffs Orby yearling, restored family honour when delivering a stunning closing burst to attain Rising Star status in July's renewal of the seven-furlong contest. He lowered York's juvenile track record when following up in August's G3 Acomb Stakes and entered winter quarters unbeaten. The January-foaled bay, a G1 Irish 2000 Guineas and G1 Irish Derby entry, is a son of G3 Pinnacle Stakes third What A Home (Ire) (Lope De Vega {Ire}), herself a half-sister to dual Group 3 winner and G1 Irish Oaks, G1 Yorkshire Oaks, G1 Pretty Polly Stakes and G1 Nassau Stakes placegetter Venus De Milo (Ire) (Duke Of Marmalade {Ire}). His second dam Inchmahome (GB) (Galileo {Ire}) is a half-sister to multiple Group 1-placed sire Inchinor (GB) (Ahonoora {GB}). VERSE OF LOVE (GB), f, 3, by Siyouni (Fr) 1st Dam: Vercelli (GB), by Shamardal 2nd Dam: Alessandria (GB), by Sunday Silence 3rd Dam: Tereshkova, by Mr. Prospector Owner: Godolphin Breeder: Godolphin Trainer: Charlie Appleby Godolphin's Verse Of Love made her debut at Newmarket in October, her sole juvenile appearance, and blitzed her 14 rivals by five lengths and more in a power-packed display over seven furlongs. The homebred is the first of three foals out of a half-sister to multiple Group 1-winning Australian champion miler Avilius (GB) (Pivotal {GB}) and dual Group winner and Group 1-placed Saint Baudolino (Ire) (Pivotal {GB}). Her third dam is G3 Prix de Cabourg victrix and G1 Prix Morny and G1 Moyglare Stud Stakes placegetter Tereshkova (Mr. Prospector). Verse Of Love will target a Classic trial in the spring, according to trainer Charlie Appleby. ZARIGANA (IRE), f, 3, by Siyouni (Fr) 1st Dam: Zarkamiya (Fr) (SW & G1SP-Fr, $144,304), by Frankel (GB) 2nd Dam: Zarkava (Ire), by Zamindar 3rd Dam: Zarkasha (Ire), by Kahyasi (Ire) Owner: His Highness The Aga Khan Breeder: His Highness The Aga Khan's Studs Trainer: Francis-Henri Graffard Zarigana produced an early fireworks display when notching a stunning four-length romp over seven furlongs at Chantilly on Bastille Day and emulated her multiple Group 1-winning second dam Zarkava (Ire) (Zamindar) by attaining TDN Rising Star status on debut. Following up with an equally impressive performance in ParisLongchamp's G3 Prix d'Aumale, she was collared by her Francis Graffard stablemate Vertical Blue (Ire) (Mehmas {Ire}) in the dying embers of a soft-ground G1 Prix Marcel Boussac back at the Bois de Boulogne and will seek redemption on sounder surfaces this year. Her dam is the stakes-winning G1 Prix Vermeille third Zarkamiya (Fr) (Frankel {GB}), a half-sister to Group 1-winning sire Zarak (Fr) (Dubawi {Ire}). TDN RISING STARS (EUROPE) 2024 Date, Track, Horse, Sire 12/04 KEM Bowmark (GB) Kingman (GB) 11/21 WOL Falakeyah (GB) New Bay (GB) 11/12 CHY Mandanaba Ghaiyyath (Ire) 10/19 LEO Twain (Ire) Wootton Bassett (GB) 10/11 NKT Verse Of Love (GB) Siyouni (Fr) 10/05 NKT Nebras (GB) Dubawi (Ire) 09/18 SAN Cosmic Year (GB) Kingman (GB) 09/16 CHY Rayevka (Ire) Blue Point (Ire) 09/13 SAL Sandtrap (Ire) Lope De Vega (Ire) 09/10 GAL Trinity College (Ire) Dubawi (Ire) 09/09 SCD Jovialite Medaglia d'Oro 08/31 CUR Acapulco Bay (Ire) Dubawi (Ire) 08/30 SAN Jonquil (GB) Lope De Vega (Ire) 08/16 PON Powerful Glory (Ire) Cotai Glory (GB) 08/15 DVL Maranoa Charlie (Fr) Wootton Bassett (GB) 08/10 CUR Delacroix (Ire) Dubawi (Ire) 08/10 CUR Falling Snow (Ire) Justify 08/09 TIP Ecstatic (Jpn) Lord Kanaloa (Jpn) 08/08 LEO Hill Road Quality Road 07/30 GAL Bubbling (Ire) No Nay Never 07/29 GAL Rock Of Cashel (Ire) Wootton Bassett (GB) 07/28 DVL Ultrafragola (Ire) Sottsass (Fr) 07/25 NBY Formal (GB) Dubawi (Ire) 07/25 SAN Ruling Court Justify 07/21 CUR Red Letter (GB) Frankel (GB) 07/20 CUR The Lion In Winter (Ire) Gleneagles (Ire) 07/15 KIL Galen (GB) Gleneagles (Ire) 07/14 CHY Zarigana (GB) Siyouni (Fr) 07/13 NKT Desert Flower (Ire) Night Of Thunder (Ire) 07/12 NKT Field Of Gold (Ire) Kingman (GB) 07/11 DON Chancellor (GB) Kingman (GB) 07/11 CLF Gun Of Brixton (Fr) Frankel (GB) 07/03 TIP Surpass (Ire) Saxon Warrior (Jpn) 06/28 CUR Lake Victoria (Ire) Frankel (GB) 06/16 CHY Polyvega (Ire) Lope De Vega (Ire) 06/14 COR Babouche (GB) Kodiac (GB) 06/06 LEO Bedtime Story (Ire) Frankel (GB) 06/01 DON Twafeeg (Ire) Far Above (Ire) 05/28 TIP Truly Enchanting (Ire) No Nay Never 05/25 CUR Jan Brueghel (Ire) Galileo (Ire) 05/22 YAR Spherical (GB) Blue Point (Ire) 05/20 SCD Tiego The First (Fr) Blue Point (Ire) 05/19 NKT Ancient Truth (Ire) Dubawi (Ire) 05/18 DON Kind Of Blue (GB) Blue Point (Ire) 05/05 NKT Mountain Breeze (Ire) Lope De Vega (Ire) 05/03 NKT Sea Just In Time (Ire) Sea The Stars (Ire) 04/27 NAV Camille Pissarro (Ire) Wootton Bassett (GB) 04/12 SCD Gala Real (Fr) Wootton Bassett (GB) 04/07 LCP Delius (GB) Frankel (GB) 04/06 KEM Notable Speech (GB) Dubawi (Ire) 03/28 CHY Louise Procter (Fr) Siyouni (Fr) 03/26 DUN Agenda (Ire) Galileo (Ire) 03/26 SCD Narkez (Fr) Siyouni (Fr) 03/24 NAA Purple Lily (Ire) Calyx (GB) 03/20 SOU Night Raider (Ire) Dark Angel (Ire) 03/20 TLU Puchkine (Fr) Starspangledbanner (Aus) 02/12 WOL Endless Victory (GB) Teofilo (Ire) The post TDN Rising Stars to Follow in 2025 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. 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A son of multiple leading sire Gun Runner and the G1 Golden Slipper heroine Estijaab (Aus) (Snitzel {Aus}) consigned by Emirates Park went for AU$500,000 (US$310,135) as Lot 369 to PR Thoroughbreds on the second day of the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale in Australia. “He has a great walk, a great attitude, and has that rich chestnut color,” Mark Player told The Thoroughbred Report AusNZ. Player represented PR Thoroughbreds alongside Rob Roulston. “We saw him several times and he just did everything beautifully and kept on improving. We just thought wouldn't it be lovely if we could afford a Gun Runner colt and we are very happy to now have one.” “At an auction we are always looking for good value, we all know how Snitzel works with fast mares and we thought that a fast American sire over a Slipper-winning Snitzel mare should have a very good chance of having success,” Player said. Gun Runner, who calls Three Chimneys home, has covered a selection of mares on Southern Hemisphere time in recent years. The post Gun Runner Colt Sells For AU$500k At Magic Millions appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Due to the adverse weather conditions, the Coolmore farms will not be opening their doors as scheduled for this year's ITM Irish Stallion Trail on Friday, January 10 and Saturday, January 11. Gates at all Coolmore farms will instead be open from 10am to 3pm on Saturday, January 18. “Due to weather conditions, the @coolmorestud farms (Coolmore, Castlehyde, Grange & The Beeches) have rescheduled their ITM Irish Stallion Trail opening to Saturday 18 January 2025,” read a statement from Irish Thoroughbred Marketing (@IREthoroughbred) on X. “Visitors to all farms on the Trail are advised to check opening hours in advance of travel.” Coolmore ask that visitors, including those already registered for this weekend, register here for Saturday, January 18 should they wish to attend. The post Coolmore Farms Reschedule ITM Irish Stallion Trail to January 18 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Harness racing turnovers for the busy Christmas – New Year period have seen a more than three per cent rise on last year. Latest figures from Entain show that turnover on the 10 meetings between Cambridge on Christmas Eve and Omakau on January 2 was 3.4 per cent up on the corresponding time the previous year, with the number of individuals betting on harness racing up 5 per cent. “It’s been a good time for our sport, we’ve seen some huge crowds at places like Central Otago and Motukarara and turnovers have been strong right across the board,” says HRNZ’s Head of Racing and Wagering Matthew Peden. Auckland’s New Year’s Eve meeting at Alexandra Park was a particular success. Total turnover on the meeting was $1.48m compared to $822K last year. “In terms of averages, that equates to $148,000 per race, compared to $103,000 last year so that is a great result for the ATC (Auckland Trotting Club),” says Peden Gore’s meeting on December 27 was also up, turning over $1.36m, as was Cambridge up from $687K to $904K (but with three extra races) while Omakau, the opening meeting on the Central Otago circuit, was up marginally from $1.39m to $1.43m. The highest turnover meeting of the holiday break was at Motukarara on December 29, with total turnover of $1.62m. “One observation about The Mot though was there are challenges with cellphone coverage that impacts people putting bets on, so getting a solution to that is a priority.” Overall turnover from December 24 – January 2 was $11,668,682 in 2024-25, compared to $11,288,232 in 2023-24. “Generally speaking it’s a good solid start to 2025 and as always we will be looking at what improvements in all areas, including wagering and the race day experience for everyone,” says Peden. View the full article

The 2025 Magic Millions Cup, a $2 million handicap race, is set to be a highlight of the 10-race card at the Gold Coast this Saturday. With an open field and several contenders vying for favor, the race promises an exciting contest for the Restricted Listed clash. Michael Freedman‘s runner Moravia is the new, narrow […] The post Magic Millions Cup 2025 Betting & Field: Open Race for $2 Million Showdown appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

The Gold Coast gears up for another Magic Millions spectacle this Saturday, with the 3YO Guineas shaping up as a fascinating contest. Ciaron Maher‘s star filly Snitzanova is the clear favourite at $5.50 in 2025 Magic Millions 3YO Guineas betting online through Ladbrokes, but will she face a challenge from one of the contenders drawn […] The post Magic Millions 3YO Guineas 2025 Betting & Field: Snitzanova Set to Sizzle appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

What 2025 Magic Millions 3YO Guineas Where Gold Coast Turf Club – Gold Coast, Queensland When Saturday, January 11, 2025 Prizemoney $3,000,000 Distance 1400m Conditions Restricted Listed 2024 winner Abounding (6) | T: Robert Heathcote | J: Martin Harley (54.5kg) Visit Dabble The Magic Millions 3YO Guineas will be the second of the feature events on the 10-race card at the Gold Coast this Saturday afternoon. With rain forecast on each of the days in the lead-up to the meeting, the track is expected to remain in the Soft range, while a full field of 18 runners will contest the $3 million race. Due to the ongoing turf renovations at the Gold Coast, Eagle Farm has been placed on standby to hold the massive Magic Millions meeting should the new turf not be suitable for racing. 2025 Magic Millions 3YO Guineas odds The Ciaron Maher-trained Snitzanova has opened as the $6 favourite with horse racing bookmakers, leading the market over Tuileries, who sits on the second line of betting at $8.50. The other two runners that are marked in single figures are Cosmic Fire and Bauhinia, who are both rated $9 chances. Give Me Space ($12), Yes Lulu ($14), and Arriving Home ($13) are all coming off strong wins and should be considered at each-way prices. 2025 Magic Millions 3YO Guineas speed map The three Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott representatives, Catoggio, Dawn Service, and Shangri La Express, will contest the lead in the 2025 Magic Millions 3YO Guineas. Cosmic Fire, Zoubaby, and Street Chase will attempt to settle in behind the top three from their inside to middle gates. Bittercreek, Give Me Space, and Bauhinia will appreciate a fast tempo as they will settle towards the back of the field from their wide barriers. Continue reading for HorseBetting’s top selections and $100 betting strategy for the 2025 Magic Millions 3YO Guineas. Magic Millions 3YO Guineas 2025 preview & form Tuileries has been impressive in both of her victories after getting herself out of trouble to finish off strongly over 1250m and 1300m. The Peter Snowden-trained filly has a brilliant turn of foot, and that has been on full display in those two victories at Canterbury and Randwick. Barrier 23 seems to be the only possible problem for Tuileries, but if she can navigate a clear path, she can win again. Much like the top selection, Snitzanova is on a winning streak after claiming victories in the Group 3 Spring Stakes and Group 2 Sandown Guineas in her last two starts. The Ciaron Maher-trained filly proved too strong for her rivals at Sandown over 1600m, and dropping back in trip to 1400m should be no problem for her. Snitzanova will map better than most of her market rivals, and that could be pivotal to her winning chances. The runner that looks to be over the odds with Dabble is Dance To The Boom. The Bjorn Baker-trained filly has been nothing short of impressive in each of her three wins and comes into the Magic Millions 3YO Guineas undefeated. The daughter of Exceedance is versatile and can settle anywhere from barrier 18, so if she jumps well for Damian Lane and they land in the front half of the field, Dance To The Boom will prove hard to hold out. Bauhinia is another filly who is on the rise, but if she races like she did last start and is four lengths off the second last horse, it will be hard for her to make up ground in such a big field. Magic Millions 3YO Guineas 2025 selections & best bets Selections: 18 TUILERIES 6 SNITZANOVA 13 DANCE TO THE BOOM 14 BAUHINIA $100 betting strategy $30 win Tuileries (#18) @ +750 with BlondeBet $30 win Snitzanova (#6) @ +500 with Playup $20 each-way Dance To The Boom (#13) @ +1700 & +500 with Neds 2025 Magic Millions 3YO Guineas Field No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight 1 Bittercreek Leon & Troy Corstens & Will Larkin Blake Shinn 15 58kg 2 Give Me Space Barry Lockwood Luke Dempsey 21 57kg 3 Dawn Service Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott James Orman 4 56.5kg 4 Catoggio Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Tim Clark 19 56.5kg 5 Deoth Of Character Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald Chad Schofield 16 56.5kg 6 Snitzanova Ciaron Maher Daniel Stackhouse 9 56kg 7 Bosustow Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald Joshua Parr 10 56kg 8 Shangri La Express Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Angela Jones 14 56kg 9 Street Chase Jim Mason Craig Williams 12 56kg 10 King Of Roseau Peter Snowden Vlad Duric 3 56kg 11 Cosmic Fire Billy Healey Andrew Mallyon 2 56kg 12 Hella Fast Kelly Schweida Kyle Wilson-Taylor 8 56kg 13 Dance To The Boom Bjorn Baker Damian Lane 18 54.5kg 14 Bauhinia Lee & Cherie Curtis Tommy Berry 20 54kg 15 Zoubaby Richard & Will Freedman Andrew Adkins 7 54kg 16 Yes Lulu Ciaron Maher Jason Collett 17 54kg 17 Arriving Home Bjorn Baker Kerrin McEvoy 11 54kg 18 Tuileries Peter Snowden Tyler Schiller 23 54kg 19 Hell To Pay (1E) John O’Shea & Tom Charlton TBC 5 56kg 20 Territory Ash (2E) Liam Birchley TBC 22 54kg 21 Bollinger Miss (3E) Chris & Corey Munce Martin Harley 6 54kg 22 Blitzum (4E) Chris Anderson TBC 1 56kg 23 Nuestra (5E) Lawrie Mayfield-Smith TBC 13 54kg Horse racing tips View the full article

Southern apprentice jockey Floor Moerman collected the biggest win of her brief career to date on the middle day of the West Coast circuit, guiding La Bella Nera (NZ) (Sweynesse) to victory in Wednesday’s Vernon and Vazey 0800 Truck Parts Reefton Cup (1400m). The Dutch native has been race-riding since late November and broke her maiden on New Year’s Day at Riverton, and after finishing second aboard The Buffer in the Greymouth Cup (2000m) last Sunday, she partnered with the John and Karen Parsons-trained mare in an attempt to go one better in Reefton’s feature contest. Northern visitor Island Hop was tipped as the horse to beat, closing a $2 favourite ahead of La Bella Nera ($4). Jumping from barrier five of six, La Bella Nera showed her customary early speed and took over the pacemaking role from Tap ‘N’ Go as they exited the home straight, while Island Hop settled last. Moerman wasn’t breaking any records aboard La Bella Nera along the back stretch, and when Tap ‘N’ Go came up to challenge on the home turn, the mare had plenty left in store, storming away with the Cup by 1 – ¾ lengths. Island Hop was eye-catching late, finding the line strongly into third. All of La Bella Nera’s six prior wins had come at 1200m or less, but a delighted Moerman indicated the mare had seen out the distance comfortably. “I was a bit worried about the distance, she normally goes over 1200m and ideally I wanted a firmer track,” she said. “But, she kept travelling nicely and around the 600m, I saw Terry Moseley (jockey of Tap ‘N’ Go) coming so I clicked her up and from there on, she travelled lovely. “I’m liking the West Coast.” La Bella Nera has now won seven of 23 starts and just shy of $150,000 for Karen Parsons, who bred and races the daughter of Sweynesse. She is the third foal out of stakes-winning mare Arietta, who has also produced four-race winner Watch Out for the Balcairn couple. The win completed a double for Moerman on the Reefton card, after she rode her mentor Krystal Williams’ charge Charm Manhattan to a 2 – ¾ length success in the Fahey Contracting (1020m). View the full article

Well-performed mare Pearl Of Alsace (NZ) (Tavistock) will have conditions to suit on Saturday in her quest to add a major title to her CV before the curtain comes down on her career. The daughter of Tavistock will return to her favourite course to contest the Gr.1 Harcourts Thorndon Mile (1600m) at Trentham where previous visits have been rewarded with three wins, including success in the Gr.3 Cuddle Stakes (1600m). “She has been served by Proisir and we’re waiting to see if she is in foal,” said Shaune Ritchie, who trains the six-year-old with Colm Murray for breeder-owner Sir Peter Vela. “If she is, she’ll only have a couple more runs and she is Group One placed and a Group winner so there’s only one mountain left to climb. “If she can nail a Group One then that would be fantastic. We’re starting to run out of opportunities, and this is without doubt the best she’s had.” Pearl Of Alsace has also pleased both of her trainers and raceday rider Michael McNab in her build-up. “Her trial at Tauranga before the first race the other day was as good as you’re going to get from her,” Ritchie said. “She was hard held in third and McNab got off and said that’s the best she’s trialled, so we seem to have her in the right order for the right conditions. “She doesn’t seem to let down quite the same on the firmer tracks in summer so with it being a Slow 7 there’ll certainly be some give in the ground. “She has a great record both at the mile and at Trentham and dropping down to 53kg is going to be advantageous as well. She comes into the race really nicely.” Pride Of Alsace’s only miss on the track came at her most recent appearance when sixth in the Gr.1 Mufhasa Classic (1600m). “She got within range and then lugged in, she hung in a little bit when she would normally quicken and just felt the ground,” Ritchie said. “There were no muscle problems post that, but she’s just not the same when the tracks are hard.” The stable will also be represented by Tycoon Prince in the Gr.2 Top Kat Roofing Levin Classic (1400m) and Hammer Time in the Wellington Seamarket Handicap (2200m). The Cambridge Stud-bred and raced Tycoon Prince backed up his maiden win with a strong last-start third at Te Rapa behind Damask Rose and Sought After. “It was a tidy race and when Damask Rose went past him, she gave him a bit of a touch up, he was only ever going to run third but he should have been a shade closer,” Ritchie said. “He’s improving and we don’t have illusions of grandeur of knocking off Savaglee, he’s the best colt and he’s proven that. “Tycoon Prince is stud-owned and black type is extremely important as Brendan and Jo (Lindsay) have the mare, so if he can place we’ll take that as a big win. “I think he will continue to improve he’s quite a lanky horse and how far he’ll go I’m not sure, but I don’t think the 1400m will be a problem and he can race on pace.” Hammer Time has won one of his two starts up to 1600m this campaign and will be suited to a rise in distance. “He’s going to be hard to beat, we’ve tried him over ground before and for a variety of reasons hasn’t shined but he’s much stronger now,” Ritchie said. “The last time we tried him, he stood on a nail and the shoe went in and he was in quite a bit of pain. He works, moves and looks like a stayer so maybe it’s the right time for him to run a trip.” View the full article

Outstanding Australian-based three-year-old galloper Evaporate (NZ) (Per Incanto) is heading to New Zealand to add a sizzling trans-Tasman edge to the brand-new slot race, The NZB Kiwi, at Ellerslie Racecourse on 8 March. Evaporate, a son of Little Avondale Stud’s sire Per Incanto, will run in the TAB slot for Entain New Zealand, who operate TAB and the TAB Racing Club, in the 1500-metre feature on Champions Day. The winner of four of his 10 races, trained by brothers Ben, Will & JD Hayes in Victoria, Evaporate has performed at the elite level in Australia in the spring, running 3rd in the Group 1 Caulfield Guineas in October before competing in the world-famous Cox Plate later that month. Australian-trained horses of this quality have rarely been seen in New Zealand, and Entain Managing Director – New Zealand, Cameron Rodger was ecstatic to reach terms with Evaporate’s owners. “We’ve searched through the history books and to have a placegetter in the Caulfield Guineas – a race that is one of the best three-year-old races on the Australian calendar and famous for launching stallion careers – head across the Tasman is a fantastic coup for the inaugural running of The NZB Kiwi,” Rodger said. “Evaporate is a shining example of the New Zealand Thoroughbred being bred and foaled at the famous Little Avondale Stud on the outskirts of Masterton. He’s already proven himself on the Australian stage, and we’re thrilled to have him back for such a massive day in New Zealand racing history. “With a strong following across the ditch, Evaporate’s presence in The NZB Kiwi will ensure the Australasian focus on 8 March will be squarely set on Champions Day at Ellerslie.” Evaporate will provide the Hayes brothers – Ben, Will & JD – with an opportunity to campaign a horse in New Zealand, and JD Hayes said the brothers were relishing the chance to head across the Tasman. “It’s an honour to be part of the first-ever running of The NZB Kiwi and we think we’ve got a very talented three-year-old to give this race a shake,” JD Hayes said. “He was tremendous during the spring and has all the credentials to be a major player over the 1500m, which is in the same distance range as the Caulfield Guineas. “While he certainly is Kiwi-bred, we’re proud to be adding some trans-Tasman flavour to this brand-new race.” Evaporate is likely to trial later this month and run fresh up in Victoria during February before travelling to New Zealand for The NZB Kiwi, a race worth up to $4.5m in stakes and bonuses. – Entain New Zealand. View the full article

The Gold Coast is set to shimmer this Saturday as the richest race of the Australian summer, the 2025 Magic Millions 2YO Classic, takes center stage. A field of 16 promising juveniles will vie for a share of the $3 million prize money over the 1200m distance. Invincible Woman, trained by the duo of Lloyd […] The post Magic Millions 2YO Classic 2025 Betting & Field: Invincible Woman Leads the Charge appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

What Sale Races Where Sale Turf Club – 1227 Maffra-Sale Rd, Sale VIC 3850 When Thursday, January 9, 2025 First Race 1:30pm AEDT Visit Dabble Horse racing in Victoria heads to the Sale Turf Club on Thursday afternoon, where a competitive eight-race meeting is set down for decision. With clear skies on the forecast, the track is expected to remain a Good 4 throughout the day, with the rail sticking in its true position the entire circuit. The first race at Sale is set to jump at 1:30pm local time. Best Bet at Sale: Porter Porter always seems like he is about to take the step to the next level but fails to do so, but he gets his chance to begin that climb once again. The son of So You Think was overhauled late at Werribee last time out, but his dominant all-the-way triumph at Seymour the start prior was quite impressive. He does his best work on Good ground, so he will appreciate the firmer going on Thursday, and it looks like he will be able to take up the running over 1400m. With a cheap sectional or two out in front, Porter will be saluting. Best Bet Race 7 – #1 Porter (7) 4yo Gelding | T: Danny O’Brien | J: Blake Shinn (60kg) Bet with Neds Next Best at Sale: The Viking The Viking could not have been any more impressive on debut over 1100m at this track, and stepping up to the 1200m looks ideal for the son of Written Tycoon. Having settled just off the speed, the Lindsay Park-trained sprinter justified his $1.60 favouritism with BlondeBet to score by 1.3 lengths when running away from his rivals. Blake Shinn should have The Viking in a stalking position throughout, and if this bloke can replicate what he produced on debut, he will not be for catching. Next Best Race 8 – #6 The Viking (6) 3yo Gelding | T: Ben, Will & JD Hayes | J: Blake Shinn (58kg) Bet with BlondeBet Best Value at Sale: Peace Baby Despite hardly firing a shot first-up from a spell, the Robbie Griffiths-trained Peace Baby presents great each-way value with horse racing bookmakers stepping up to the 1100m. The three-year-old gelding was easily headed over 1000m when settling up on speed but kept offering something under a ride to suggest he would be worth following. Jamie Mott will go forward on the son of Exceedance from barrier 14, and as long as the pair do not get caught wide throughout, Peace Baby can give this a shake at a nice price. Best Value Race 2 – #6 Peace Baby (14) 3yo Gelding | T: Robbie Griffiths | J: Jamie Mott (58kg) Bet with Picklebet Thursday quaddie tips for Sale Sale quadrella selections Thursday, January 9, 2025 1-2-4 2-3-4-6 1-3 2-6 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Pearl Of Alsace will contest the Group 1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) at Trentham on Saturday. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Well-performed mare Pride Of Alsace will have conditions to suit on Saturday in her quest to add a major title to her CV before the curtain comes down on her career. The daughter of Tavistock will return to her favourite course to contest the Group 1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) at Trentham where previous visits have been rewarded with three wins, including success in the Group 3 Cuddle Stakes (1600m). “She has been served by Proisir and we’re waiting to see if she is in foal,” said Shaune Ritchie, who trains the six-year-old with Colm Murray for breeder-owner Sir Peter Vela. “If she is, she’ll only have a couple more runs and she is Group One placed and a Group winner so there’s only one mountain left to climb. “If she can nail a Group One then that would be fantastic. We’re starting to run out of opportunities, and this is without doubt the best she’s had.” Pearl Of Alsace has also pleased both of her trainers and raceday rider Michael McNab in her build-up. “Her trial at Tauranga before the first race the other day was as good as you’re going to get from her,” Ritchie said. “She was hard held in third and McNab got off and said that’s the best she’s trialled, so we seem to have her in the right order for the right conditions. “She doesn’t seem to let down quite the same on the firmer tracks in summer so with it being a Slow 7 there’ll certainly be some give in the ground. “She has a great record both at the mile and at Trentham and dropping down to 53kg is going to be advantageous as well. She comes into the race really nicely.” Pride Of Alsace’s only miss on the track came at her most recent appearance when sixth in the Group 1 Mufhasa Classic (1600m). “She got within range and then lugged in, she hung in a little bit when she would normally quicken and just felt the ground,” Ritchie said. “There were no muscle problems post that, but she’s just not the same when the tracks are hard.” Horse racing news View the full article

Training milestones, a Kiwi-bred creating a big impression across the Tasman, and a $2m earner all feature in this week’s News Briefs. First solo training win for Kelly After having five training wins in partnership with his father Paul, Gore trainer Shayne Kelly had his first win on his own account when Angus Finn won the Combined Sponsors Mobile Pace at Roxburgh last Saturday. Driven by Nathan Williamson, the four-year-old gelding was having his ninth race day start. For Kelly, an area manager for Fonterra and sheep farmer, it was his first solo win in 36 starts since 2017. He has also had 30 wins as a driver, his most recent being Marilyn Monroe at Gore in 2002. Stuart hits 300 Andrew Stuart’s first winner for 2025 saw him bring up his 300th training success. Driven by Robbie Close ,Timbimboo brought up the milestone with a one length win in the Alexandra Four Square/ Harness Racing Unhinged Mobile Pace at Omakau on January 2. The Loburn-based trainer’s first win was with Free Shaver at Addington in 1998. His best season wins-wise was the 20 he had in the 2019 season. Miki Pins going for five straight As dual New Zealand Cup hero Swayzee prepares to go bush for his next race, trainer Jason Grimson has his sights set on another country feature. Exciting new stable addition, Kiwi-bred gelding Miki Pins, will step into open class for the first time in Saturday night’s $50,000 Group 3 Shepparton Gold Cup at 10.37pm NZT. Bred by Gore’s Terry and Dawn McPherson, the five-year-old son of Always B Miki has created a huge impression winning all four starts since joining Grimson’s Menangle barn. As well as having to overcome a back row draw (gate 11) Miki Pins will be against proven classy performers in Tact McLeod (three), Rock N Roll Doo (nine) and Cantfindabettorman (13). “I’m sure he’ll be very competitive. The back row isn’t ideal, but he’s the sort of horse I can make a move on and put into the race, so that helps,” driver Jack Callaghan says. Unraced in this country, Miki Pins has won eight of 18 starts in Australia. Back to Swayzee, and Grimson will go straight to the third leg of the NSW Carnival of Cups at Tamworth on Friday week as his connections chase a five-win $1m bonus. $2m in earnings How’s this for success and longevity? In North America 13-year-old gelding JL Cruze became a $2m earner with a third at Bally’s Dover in Delaware on New Year’s Eve. A one-time performer on the Grand Circuit JL Cruze was the 2015 Dan Patch award winner for best older male trotter. He has now had 248 starts and 78 wins. A ceremony was held in the winner’s circle after the race to recognise him becoming a harness racing double millionaire. Change to parade at Karaka A minor change has been confirmed for the NZB Standardbred Yearling Sales. Around 340 yearlings will go under the hammer at Karaka on Saturday, February 15 and at Christchurch on Tuesday, February 18. Selling at the Auckland session will start from 1pm with the official parade at Karaka now taking place place at the earlier time of 10am on Friday, February 14 at the request of major vendors. Inspections at Christchurch take place on Sunday, February 16 and Monday, February 17 February at Canterbury Agricultural Park while selling begins on Tuesday 18 February from 11am. For more information click here Monte Trot at Cambridge The Haras des Trotteurs Monte Trot will be held at Cambridge Raceway on January 17. The race will be a 1700 metre stand and be held later in the program to allow horses to both race and take part in the non-tote Monte. Monte is a form of trot racing where horses are ridden rather than driven and is very popular in Europe. Riders must be licensed with HRNZ or NZTR to compete. For more information contact Jo Ferguson – 021 1443709 or trackchatnz@gmail.com View the full article

Savaglee (inside) winning a star-studded trial at Matamata last month. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Glamour colt Savaglee will commence an exciting summer programme at Trentham on Saturday, taking his place in the Group 2 Levin Classic (1400m). The Oaks Stud galloper was undoubtedly the nation’s top three-year-old through the spring, winning the Group 2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m), Group 2 Sarten Memorial (1400m) and his crowning success, the Group 1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m). Savaglee made his first public appearance since his Riccarton success in a stacked Group and Listed trial at Matamata last month, where after powering from the gates, he travelled comfortably and won under little pressure for regular hoop Sam Spratt. The impressive display further instilled horse racing bookmakers‘ confidence in Savaglee, installing him an odds-on favourite at $1.70 for Saturday’s age-group feature, a race his trainer Pam Gerard is hoping will be a springboard to bigger targets. “We’ve just kept him ticking over nicely, building up fitness and trying to have him in the best condition that we can,” she said. “It’s not our final race for the season so he’s pretty well, he’s carrying a little bit of excess condition but we’re pretty happy with where he’s at. “At the 1400, there just wasn’t anything else available, and it was going to be this race or the Telegraph (Group 1, 1200m). We didn’t really want to take on the older horses at 1200m, then he’d carry a lot of weight in races like the Almanzor (Group 3, 1200m). “It was pretty plain sailing really, it had to be this one.” The colt is a Karaka Yearling Sales purchase and a Kiwi-bred, meaning there are many options at his disposal including the lucrative $1.5 million Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) on January 25, and later in March, the $3.5 million NZB Kiwi (1500m). As a future stallion prospect, Gerard has indicated Savaglee would be more likely to chase valuable black-type, with the Group 1 BCD Group Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa on February 8 on the radar. “We’ll know more after this Saturday in how he’s tracking, but at this stage, it’ll be this into the BCD Sprint. After that, hopefully we’ll be on to Australia,” she said. “If not, we’ll see how he looks after Saturday, there’s still the Karaka Millions and the slot race. It’s one race at a time, we don’t have to rush to Australia if we don’t think he’s come back as well as he was. It’s been a big season so far with a lot of cancelations in getting him to Christchurch, so it’s going to catch up with him at some stage.” Horse racing news View the full article

What 2025 Magic Millions 2YO Classic Where Gold Coast Turf Club – Gold Coast, Queensland When Saturday, January 11, 2025 Prizemoney $3,000,000 Distance 1200m Conditions Restricted Listed 2024 winner Storm Boy (9) | T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott | J: Adam Hyeronimus (57kg) Visit Dabble The Magic Millions 2YO Classic will headline the 10-race card at the Gold Coast Turf Club this Saturday afternoon, with a full field of 16 expected to contest the $3 million feature. There is substantial rain forecast on each of the days leading up to Saturday’s meeting, which will keep the track in the Soft range after being rated as a Soft 5 on Wednesday. Due to the ongoing turf renovations at the Gold Coast, Eagle Farm has been placed on standby to hold the massive Magic Millions meeting should the new turf not be suitable for racing. 2025 Magic Millions 2YO Classic odds Horse racing bookmakers have opened their Magic Millions 2YO Classic market with only six runners marked under $10. The Lloyd Kennewell & Lucy Yeomans-trained Invincible Woman leads the betting at $5, slightly ahead of Gallo Nero ($6), who sits on the second line of betting. First emergency, Space Rider, shares the third line of betting with Memo at $7, while Icarian Dream ($8) and La Bella Boom ($8) round out the horses in single figures. 2025 Magic Millions 2YO Classic speed map The speed for the 2025 Magic Millions 2YO Classic will be very fast, with the likes of Invincible Woman, The Playwright, Space Rider, and Hi Barbie expected to fight for the lead. Vein Girl, Gallo Nero, Don’tdoubthelady and O’Ole will push forward from inside to middle barriers and settle behind the speed. Meanwhile, Quietly Arrogant, Memo, and Icarian Dream are likely to settle worse than midfield and enjoy the hot tempo. Continue reading for HorseBetting’s top selections and $100 betting strategy for the 2025 Magic Millions 2YO Classic. Magic Millions 2YO Classic 2025 preview & form With so many speed influences engaged in this year’s edition of the Magic Millions 2YO Classic, Icarian Dream will go on top in the 1200m contest. The Ciaron Maher-trained filly was way too good for her rivals in the Group 3 B.J. McLachlan Stakes at Eagle Farm last start, as she sailed down the middle of the track and recorded a 1.5-length win. The daughter of Blue Point has been to the races four times so far, with each of her performances showing that she is only getting better with the experience. If Jason Collett can settle Icarian Dream in a good position from barrier 21, she will prove very hard to hold out late. Gallo Nero was very good when taking out a 2YO Handicap at Rosehill last start, and the Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes-trained colt will get the run of the race from barrier five. Invincible Woman and Space Rider have been impressive in their debut victories and must be given a chance if they can finish off after racing on speed. Magic Millions 2YO Classic 2025 selections & best bets Selections: 6 ICARIAN DREAM 2 GALLO NERO 10 INVINCIBLE WOMAN 17 SPACE RIDER $100 betting strategy $50 win Icarian Dream (#6) @ +700 with BlondeBet $50 win Gallo Nero (#2) @ +500 with Playup 2025 Magic Millions 2YO Classic Field No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight 1 Quietly Arrogant Peter Snowden Joshua Parr 16 57kg 2 Gallo Nero Michael, John & Wayne Hawkes Tyler Schiller 5 57kg 3 Secret Sort Donna Stanbridge Vld Duric 2 57kg 4 Luva Flutta Stuart Kendrick James Orman 7 57kg 5 Cool Archie Chris & Corey Munce Martin Harley 20 57kg 6 Icarian Dream Ciaron Maher Jason Collett 21 55kg 7 O’ Ole Bjorn Baker Tommy Berry 3 55kg 8 Vein Girl Chris & Corey Munce Cejay Graham 6 55kg 9 La Bella Boom Tony Gollan Craig Williams 10 55kg 10 Invincible Woman Lloyd Kennewell & Lucy Yeomans Damian Lane 9 55kg 11 Hi Barbie Tony Gollan Tim Clark 14 55kg 12 The Playwright Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Blake Shinn 8 55kg 13 Memo Peter Snowden Kerrin McEvoy 1 55kg 14 Formula Rossa Tony Gollan Angela Jones 18 55kg 15 Don’tdoubthelady Clinton Taylor Justin Stanley 17 55kg 16 Forgotten Spirit Scott Morrisey Linda Meech 11 55kg 17 Space Rider (1E) Mick Price & Michael Kent (Jnr) Chad Schofield 4 57kg 18 Blitzburg (2E) Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou TBC 19 57kg 19 Earn To Burn (3E) Jack Bruce TBC 12 57kg 20 Lovebug (4E) Wendy Bannerot TBC 13 55kg 21 Insain Lady (5E) Adam & Dallas Simpson TBC 15 55kg Horse racing tips View the full article

Photo provided by X. Travis Bird, 51, has been charged with arson and trespass after allegedly setting fire to Melbourne’s iconic Caulfield Racecourse, causing significant damage to the Norman Robinson Stand. Speaking in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, Mr. Bird, wearing a grey shirt, did not speak but nodded to confirm he understood his remand into custody. Police allege Mr. Bird ignited four fires across Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs on Tuesday morning, beginning with the blaze at Caulfield Racecourse at 6:20 am. The fire tore through the historic stand, severely damaging its wooden structure and the adjacent 1876 bar. Fire Rescue Victoria commander Dennis Smith noted that while the fire caused extensive damage, it was swiftly contained. “This had a lot of potential to extend and be a much more significant fire and really impact the racecourse,” he said. Mr. Bird’s lawyer confirmed he would not seek bail, citing his schizophrenia diagnosis and overdue medication. “His depot injection is overdue,” she told the court. “I ask his mental health be monitored while he is in custody.” The alleged arson spree continued later in the day with small fires reported in Arnott Street, Caulfield, and grassfires near Attenborough Park and the Nepean Highway in Mordialloc around 12:30 pm. Police arrested Mr. Bird at Mordialloc railway station shortly after 1:45 p.m. following a report from a member of the public. Melbourne Racing Club chairman John Kanga expressed dismay at the damage but assured the public of the club’s resilience. “We will rebuild the Norman Robinson Stand,” he said. As a result of the incident, Wednesday evening’s twilight races were relocated to Mornington Racecourse. Detective Sergeant Stuart Hough told reporters there was no indication Mr. Bird had any connection to the racing industry. Mr. Bird faces nine charges, including four counts of arson, two counts of trespass, and single counts of burglary, criminal damage, and theft. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to reappear in court on April 1. Horse racing news View the full article

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) is excited to announce a transformative partnership with 1/ST, the premier North American Thoroughbred racing, gaming and entertainment company. Known for its iconic venues, including Santa Anita Park (California) and Gulfstream Park (Florida), 1/ST is a leader in modernizing horse racing by blending live racing with innovative gaming, hospitality and lifestyle experiences. As leaders of world-class racing, hospitality and entertainment events, 1/ST is also committed to advancing racing’s global profile through cutting-edge technology and international collaboration. This partnership brings a unique opportunity to connect three prestigious racedays: Auckland Thoroughbred Racing’s Champions Day (March 8), alongside 1/ST’s Pegasus World Cup (January 25) and California Crown (September 27). This collaboration will introduce “Golden Ticket” pathways, offering the winning horses direct entry into marquee races including: From the Pegasus World Cup (25 January 2025) to Champions Day (8 March 2025): The US$500,000 Group 2 Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf (1600m) winner earns entry to the NZ$600,000 Group 1 World Pool New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m). The US$1,000,000 Group 1 Pegasus World Cup Turf (1800m) winner gains entry to the NZ$1,000,000 Group 1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m). From Champions Day (8 March 2025) to California Crown (27 September 2025): The NZ$500,000 Rich Hill Stud Champion Middle Distance Series winner earns entry to the US$750,000 Group 1 California Crown John Henry Turf (2000m). The NZ$500,000 Sport Nation Champion Sprint Series winner earns entry to the US$750,000 Group 2 California Crown US$750,000 Eddie D Turf Sprint (1300m). To further enhance the partnership, NZTR and 1/ST will cover travel and freight costs for Golden Ticket-winning horses travelling internationally to compete in the respective countries. “This partnership marks an exciting milestone in showcasing New Zealand racing on the world stage,” commented Chief Operating Officer of NZTR, Darin Balcombe. “The Golden Ticket concept creates a unique pathway for international competition, enriching the experience for racing participants and fans alike.” Aidan Butler, President of 1/ST, added: “This partnership with NZTR exemplifies our commitment to elevating Thoroughbred racing globally. By linking these iconic racedays and supporting international competition, we’re looking to drive innovation, collaboration and global excitement in the sport.” Lachlan Fitt, Deputy CEO of Entain Australia and New Zealand, operators of the NZ TAB, also welcomed the announcement: “Congratulations to NZTR and 1/ST on reaching this exciting outcome. The partnership will continue the opportunity for NZ racing to be showcased to racing fans globally and is another new pathway for NZ racing participants to consider. And through our Trackside and Sport Nation media brands, we look forward to bringing the best of US racing to our wagering customers in NZ.” This partnership paves the way for significant growth in Thoroughbred racing across both regions, with both NZTR and 1/ST excited to build on this promising foundation moving forward. For more information about the partnership and Golden Ticket races, contact NZTR’s Head Handicapper Bruce Sherwin by emailing Bruce.Sherwin@nztr.co.nz. About The Stronach Group and 1/ST The Stronach Group is a world-class technology, entertainment and real estate development company with Thoroughbred racing and pari-mutuel wagering at the core. The Stronach Group’s 1/ST business (pronounced “First”) is North America’s preeminent Thoroughbred racing and pari-mutuel wagering company and includes the 1/ST RACING & GAMING, 1/ST CONTENT, 1/ST TECHNOLOGY and 1/ST EXPERIENCE businesses, while advocating for and driving the 1/ST HORSE CARE mission. 1/ST represents The Stronach Group’s continued movement toward redefining Thoroughbred racing and the ecosystem that drives it. 1/ST RACING & GAMING drives the best-in-class racing operations and gaming offerings at the company’s premier racetracks and training centers including: Santa Anita Park and San Luis Rey Downs (California); Gulfstream Park – home of the Pegasus World Cup and Palm Meadows Thoroughbred Training Center (Florida); Laurel Park, The Preakness Stakes, Rosecroft Raceway and Bowie Training Center (Maryland). 1/ST CONTENT is the operating group for 1/ST’s media and content companies including: Monarch Content Management, Elite, TSG Global Wagering Solutions (GWS) and XBTV. 1/ST TECHNOLOGY is racing’s largest racing and gaming technology company offering world-class products via its AmTote, Xpressbet, 1/ST BET, XB SELECT, XB NET, PariMAX and Betmix brands. 1/ST EXPERIENCE blends the worlds of sports, entertainment and hospitality through innovative content development, elevated national and local venue management and hospitality, strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and procurement development. As the advocate for critical industry reforms and by making meaningful investments into aftercare programs for retired horses and jockeys, 1/ST HORSE CARE represents The Stronach Group’s commitment to achieving the highest level of horse and rider care and safety standards in Thoroughbred racing on and off the track. The Stronach Group’s TSG Properties is responsible for the development of the company’s live, play and work communities surrounding its racing venues including: The Village at Gulfstream Park (Florida) and Paddock Pointe (Maryland). For more information, visit www.1st.com or follow @1ST_racing on Twitter or @1stracing on Instagram and Facebook. View the full article

Glamour colt Savaglee (NZ) (Savabeel) will commence an exciting summer programme at Trentham on Saturday, taking his place in the Gr.2 Top Kat Roofing Levin Classic (1400m). The Oaks Stud galloper was undoubtedly the nation’s top three-year-old through the spring, winning the Gr.2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m), Gr.2 Sarten Memorial (1400m) and his crowning success, the Gr.1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m). Savaglee made his first public appearance since his Riccarton success in a stacked Group and Listed trial at Matamata last month, where after powering from the gates, he travelled comfortably and won under little pressure for regular hoop Sam Spratt. The impressive display further instilled the TAB bookmakers’ confidence in Savaglee, installing him an odds-on favourite at $1.70 for Saturday’s age-group feature, a race his trainer Pam Gerard is hoping will be a springboard to bigger targets. “We’ve just kept him ticking over nicely, building up fitness and trying to have him in the best condition that we can,” she said. “It’s not our final race for the season so he’s pretty well, he’s carrying a little bit of excess condition but we’re pretty happy with where he’s at. “At the 1400, there just wasn’t anything else available, and it was going to be this race or the Telegraph (Gr.1, 1200m). We didn’t really want to take on the older horses at 1200m, then he’d carry a lot of weight in races like the Almanzor (Gr.3, 1200m). “It was pretty plain sailing really, it had to be this one.” The colt is a Karaka Yearling Sales purchase and a Kiwi-bred, meaning there are many options at his disposal including the lucrative $1.5 million Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) on January 25, and later in March, the $3.5 million NZB Kiwi (1500m). As a future stallion prospect, Gerard has indicated Savaglee would be more likely to chase valuable black-type, with the Gr.1 BCD Group Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa on February 8 on the radar. “We’ll know more after this Saturday in how he’s tracking, but at this stage, it’ll be this into the BCD Sprint. After that, hopefully we’ll be on to Australia,” she said. “If not, we’ll see how he looks after Saturday, there’s still the Karaka Millions and the slot race. It’s one race at a time, we don’t have to rush to Australia if we don’t think he’s come back as well as he was. It’s been a big season so far with a lot of cancelations in getting him to Christchurch, so it’s going to catch up with him at some stage.” The son of Savabeel will be joined in the Levin Classic by his talented stablemate Suit Yourself, who has a different path going forward into the autumn. A colt by Savile Row, Suit Yourself made his presence felt early in the spring with two victories on the bounce, and after a short spell, he returned on Boxing Day at Ellerslie to finish a creditable fourth in the Gr.2 Auckland Guineas (1400m). “He’s taking a Derby path and we wanted to give him a good look around Ellerslie,” Gerard said. “1400 is probably a bit shorter than what he needs, but it was good to get him out there and I thought he ran really well. “He was probably a bit handier than we are used to having him, but it was just the way the race was run. “We’re just getting the miles in his legs on the way to the Derby (Gr.1, 2400m) really.” View the full article

Progressive stayer Myla (NZ) (Swiss Ace) has hit a purple patch of form this summer, putting together a winning streak that trainers Moira and Kieran Murdoch hope she can extend in Friday’s Ray White Greerton (2100m) at Tauranga. The daughter of Swiss Ace doubled her winning tally this term when going back-to-back at Rotorua and Te Rapa, the latter a dominant performance defeating subsequent Taupo Cup (2000m) winner Doddle and Thames Cup (1600m) runner-up Maldini. “It was an excellent run at Te Rapa, she really made it an easy watch because she went to the line so well, and backing up her win from before that,” Kieran Murdoch said. “We were really thrilled.” Doddle is among the mare’s seven rivals in the open contest, where she will continue her association with jockey Jasmine Fawcett. “She deserves to be there on Friday, I think she’s nicely placed in the field,” Murdoch said. “She’s always shown a good turn of foot even at the lesser distances, she’s never disappointed and has always been a handy racehorse. Age has been on her side too, she’s going really well.” The Murdochs have put in an early nomination for Myla in the Gr.2 Barfoot and Thompson Auckland Cup (3200m), to be run on Champions Day at Ellerslie (March 8). Later in the week, the Pukekohe trainers will head up to Ellerslie with a pair of runners, including Group Two winner Shamus, who will benefit from the presence of another highly-rated galloper in Orchestral in the Open 1400m contest. “He’s going well, he’s quite hard to place because he gets so punished in the weights,” Murdoch said. “He struck a couple of wet tracks which hasn’t been in his favour at all, so we thought we’d go here for the 1400 and hopefully open up some options for him later in the season. “He’s really well and we’re very happy with him.” Debutant Reikova will also step out at the races for the first time at the meeting, after recording a placing and a fourth in two trial appearances. “She’s a really nice filly kicking off at this point,” Murdoch said. “We do think a lot of her, so hopefully she enjoys her day out and has a nice first experience.” View the full article

The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association and the National Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association both believe decoupling is detrimental to Florida's racing and breeding industries. View the full article