Wandering Eyes

Kentucky Derby (G1) winner Mystik Dan resumed breezing Oct. 26, recording a three-furlong workout in :36 1/5 at Keeneland as he prepares to return to racing. View the full article

Highland Falls, Federal Judge, and Saudi Crown all hit the Churchill Downs track before the sunrise on a windy and chilly morning Oct. 26 for their final Breeders' Cup breezes.View the full article

After five days of selling that saw a pair of €500,000 yearling colts by Night Of Thunder (Ire) and Kingman (GB) share topper honours, the Arqana October Yearling Sale concluded with a second day of Part III in Deauville. The clearance rate for 604 sold from 730 offered was 83% for an aggregate of €29,413,000 (+12%). This year marked the fifth consecutive October Sale reached 80% or higher. In addition, the total average was €48,251) (+9%), nearing the elusive €50,000 mark for the first time. The median also rose 14% to €28,500. Sustained demand from all levels of the market resulted in 68 yearlings bringing €100,000 or more (60 in 2023), and the number selling for €200,000 also increased to 22 (12 in 2023). The final day of trade featured a son of Sea The Moon (Ger) (lot 729) change hands for €50,000 to the Broadhurst Agency. From the same family as G1 Preis der Diana heroine Palmas (Ger) (Lord Of England {Ger}), the colt is out of Panja (Ire) (Dalakhani {Ire}) and is a half-brother to the stakes-placed Diadema (Fr) (De Treville {GB}). Haras d'Ombreville offered the grandson of dual German Group 3 winner Peace Royale (Ger) (Sholokov {Ire}). A daughter of Bated Breath (GB) (lot 775) was the highest-priced member of her sex on Saturday. She sold to Nexus Consulting for €31,000 from the consignment of Haras de Castillon. Out of the Shalaa (Ire) mare Sundaze (Fr), the bay is related to Italian group winner Trip To Rhodos (Fr) (Rail Link {GB}) and Scandinavian group winner Brownie (Fr) (Sunday Break {Jpn}). Saturday's trade saw 120 lots sold (81%) from 149 offered for a gross of €1,340,500. The average dropped to €11,171 (-23%) and the median was €9,000 (-25%). Leading all vendors was Ecurie des Monceaux, managed by Henri Bozo, who sold 26 yearlings for a gross of €3,140,000. Second on that table was Lucie Lamotte and Gwenael Monneraye's La Motteraye, who sold 33 yearlings for €2,561,000. Anna Sundstrom of Coulonces was third at €1,703,000 for 21 yearling sold. Top of the buyers' sheet were the duo of Anthony Stroud and Matt Coleman of Stroud Coleman Bloodstock, who bought 10 yearlings for €1,912,000. Elliot Bloodstock Services' Alex Elliott was second at €1,330,000 for 12 head, while Meridian International's Ghislain Bozo bought a baker's dozen for €1,215,000. The only Kingman yearling in the catalogue sold for €500,000, while Night Of Thunder, who also had a €500,000 colt, averaged €275,667 for three sold. Wootton Bassett (GB), who has been enjoyed an extremely good year with his juveniles, averaged €268,750 for four yearlings. Arqana's post-sale statement read, “The last five days have concluded in the best possible way, and we can only be satisfied with the results. They testify to the appetite for French production, and we'd like to thank all the buyers who made the trip, as well as all our vendors for their hard work and endurance over an intense week. “The sale saw international demand, and the French were not to be outdone. The whole of France was represented among the buyers, at all market levels. Numerous French or French-based trainers were active right from Part I, such as Yann Barberot who bought one of the sale's top prices, a son of Night Of Thunder (Ire) consigned by Haras du Mont dit Mont for French owners, and Fabrice Chappet who purchased a son of Victor Ludorum (GB) for Jean-Christophe Moran. We'd like to salute this fine French business, which contributes to the dynamism of our industry. All these yearlings are eligible for the Arqana Series next year. “The month of October was also an opportunity to support a cause particularly close to our hearts, the fight against cancer, through the Pink October movement. Thanks to all those who took part in the various actions organized, notably Baroda Stud, Haras de Montaigu, La Motteraye Consignment, Haras de l'Aumônerie and Haras d'Étreham, that walked all week in aid of the fight against cancer.” The post Strong Demand Positive Theme As Curtain Falls On Arqana October appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Winless in two starts though he is, Godolphin homebred Sovereignty (Into Mischief) will have his fair share of backers from the outside stall in a field of 10 in Sunday's GIII Street Sense Stakes on opening day of the fall meet at Churchill Downs. A maternal grandson of GSW & GI Breeders' Cup Ladies' Classic runner-up Mushka (Empire Maker), Sovereignty debuted as an 11-1 chance in the Travers Day maiden Aug. 24 won by 'TDN Rising Star' Tip Top Thomas (Volatile). Last of the 10-strong field after the opening quarter-mile, Sovereignty found his best stride late to finish fourth and galloped out strongly. Tried over a mile in his latest in New York Sept. 27, the bay settled midpack and closed his final quarter in a race-best :24.38, but found the promising Praetor (Into Mischief) a neck too strong. The form of the Aug. 24 maiden has worked out nicely, as Tip Top Thomas was second in the GI Champagne Stakes, runner-up Rookie Card (Adios Charlie) graduated impressively on Saturday and third home Keewaydin (Instagrand) scored impressively Oct. 12. Dapper Moon (Malibu Moon) was pre-entered for Saturday's GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile, but takes in this softer assignment. A five-length maiden winner going seven panels at the Spa Aug. 31, the Louisiana-bred forced the pace from a wide gate in the GI Claiborne Breeders' Futurity Oct. 5 and retreated to fourth. Tiztastic (Tiz the Law), a debut fifth to possible Juvenile favorite and 'TDN Rising Star' Chancer McPatrick (McKinzie) July 27, has since won two in a row on grass, including the Kentucky Downs Juvenile Mile Sept. 8. Comes a Time (Not This Time) was up in the final few strides to defeat Rookie Card last time and should be suited by this two-turn trip. The other graded event on a calm-before-the-storm Sunday afternoon is the GIII Autumn Miss Stakes for sophomore turf fillies at Santa Anita. Medoro (Honor Code) won the first four starts of her career, including the GIII Providencia Stakes here in April, but looks to return to winning ways after finishing third in the GII San Clemente Handicap July 20 and second in the GI Del Mar Oaks Aug. 17. Asean (Ire) (Ten Sovereigns {Ire}) beat the boys twice in eight starts–all over five furlongs–for Donnacha O'Brien last season and was last seen finishing 11th in the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint. She faces her own sex for just the third time in her career going two turns for the first time, but if any trainer can excel with a horse of this variety, it's Phil D'Amato. The post Maiden Status Aside, Sovereignty Could Prove a Handful in Street Sense appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

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1st-Belmont The Big A, $90,000, Msw, 10-26, 2yo, 6f, 1:10.69, ft, 5 lengths. ROOKIE CARD (c, 2, Adios Charlie–Glamalert, by Vindication) atoned for a pair of tough-luck losses in his first two trips to the post to take the Saturday opener at Aqueduct with a fair bit of authority. Drawn the fence as the 1-2 jolly, the $165,000 OBS June breezer was soon in front for Dylan Davis and had company to his outside in the form of the once-raced Atlal (Quality Road) through an opening couple of furlongs in :22.35. Always appearing to be traveling the better of the two despite failing to build any sort of lead around the turn, the Florida-bred responded when set down in upper stretch, opened an unassailable advantage into the final furlong and won it by a good five lengths despite jumping the shadow cast by the winning post. He was tenderly handled on the gallop out, but returned to the winner's enclosure with his neck bowed and apparently none the worse for the incident. Rookie Card was beaten a neck into second behind 'TDN Rising Star' and subsequent GI Champagne Stakes runner-up Tip Top Thomas (Volatile) on the Travers Day undercard at Saratoga Aug. 24 and finished ahead of Keewaydin (Instagrand), who returned to carry Davis to 1 3/4-length maiden score two weeks ago, good for a 90 Beyer. Fourth home in the Aug. 24 contest was Sovereignty (Into Mischief), who will be one of the favorites for Sunday's GIII Street Sense Stakes at Churchill Downs despite finishing runner-up to Praetor (Into Mischief) going a mile here on Sept. 27. Rookie Card was second by a half-length at 2-5 in a 6 1/2-furlong maiden Sept. 21. Rookie Card is the last live produce for his dam, a half-sister to GI Ruffian Handicap winner Swift Temper (Giant's Causeway) and German listed winner Croisiere (Capote). The colt's third dam is three-time Grade I-winner Gorgeous (Slew o' Gold), a half-sister to 1990 GI Kentucky Oaks winner Seaside Attraction (Seattle Slew). Sales history: $165,000 2yo '24 OBSOPN. Lifetime Record: 3-1-2-0, $87,500. Click for the Equibase.com chart and VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. O-R A Hill Stable & Gatsas Stables; B-Ocala Stud & Centaur Farms Inc (FL); T-Danny Gargan. The post Adios Charlie Colt Rookie Card Dominates BAQ Lidlifter appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Nakayama newcomers' winner Brown Ratchet (Jpn) became the 35th stakes winner (22nd group) for Shadai Stallion Station resident Kizuna (Jpn) in the G3 Artemis Stakes on Saturday. The 3-1 third choice and half-sister to GI Breeders' Cup Classic hopeful Forever Young (Jpn) (Real Steel {Jpn}) broke alertly in a battling second as Mistress (Jpn) (Kizuna {Jpn}) led. More than a touch keen, she eventually settled as Kyoei Bonita (Jpn) (Isla Bonita {Jpn}) kept a close eye on the leader. More relaxed turning for home, Brown Ratchet saved every inch of ground against the rail until the field straightened. Asked for her best at the 450-metre mark, she surged through a gap a furlong from home and edged past the pacesetter to win by 1 1/4 lengths. It was extremely tight for second, with five horses vying for that honour. Mistress held on for place, a head to the good of second favourite Shonan Xanadu (Jpn) (Kizuna {Jpn}), who closed from midfield to be third, a neck in front of Shihorin (Jpn) (Maurice {Jpn}) in fourth. Only a nose behind was My Element (Jpn) (Epiphaneia {Jpn}), the same margin in front of race favourite Kamunyak (Jpn) (Black Tide {Jpn}) in sixth. Pedigree Notes Northern Racing acquired Congrats mare Forever Darling privately after her racing career. The 11-year-old, who won the GII Santa Ynez Stakes, has four winners from five to race counting Brown Ratchet and G3 Saudi Derby/G2 UAE Derby winner and GI Kentucky Derby third Forever Young. Her yearling filly is by Epiphaneia (Jpn) and her colt foal is by Rey De Oro (Jpn). Second dam Darling My Darling (Deputy Minister) won a pair of American listed races, and was second in the GI Frizette Stakes and GI Matron Stakes. She is the dam of Heavenly Love, successful in the GI Alcibiades Stakes and herself the dam of GI Blue Grass Stakes hero and Kentucky Derby second Sierra Leone (Gun Runner), who is also pointing toward the Breeders' Cup Classic. Japanese Horse of the Year and sire Zenno Rob Roy (Jpn) (Sunday Silence) is a Sunday Silence half-brother to Darling My Darling. Saturday, Tokyo, Japan ARTEMIS STAKES-G3, ¥56,160,000, Tokyo, 10-26, 2yo, f, 1600mT, 1:33.80, fm. 1–BROWN RATCHET (JPN), 121, f, 2, by Kizuna (Jpn) 1st Dam: Forever Darling (GSW-US, $217,545), by Congrats 2nd Dam: Darling My Darling, by Deputy Minister 3rd Dam: Roamin Rachel, by Mining 1ST BLACK-TYPE WIN. 1ST GROUP WIN. O-Sunday Racing; B-Northern Farm (Jpn); T-Takahisa Tezuka; J-Christophe Lemaire; ¥29,392,000. Lifetime Record: 2-2-0-0, ¥36,592,000. Click for the free Equineline.com catalogue-style pedigree. Werk Nick Rating: B+. Click for the eNicks report & 5-cross pedigree. 2–Mistress (Jpn), 121, f, 2, Kizuna (Jpn)–Cherokee Maiden, by Distorted Humor. 1ST BLACK TYPE. 1ST GROUP BLACK TYPE. (¥88,000,000 Wlg '22 JRHAJUL). O-Shinji Maeda; B-Grand Farm (Jpn); ¥12,112,000. 3–Shonan Xanadu (Jpn), 121, f, 2, Kizuna (Jpn)–Mi Sueno, by Pulpit. 1ST BLACK TYPE. 1ST GROUP BLACK TYPE. (¥185,000,000 Wlg '22 JRHAJUL). O-Tetsuhide Kunimoto; B-Northern Farm (Jpn); ¥7,356,000 Margins: 1 1/4, HD, NK. Odds: 3.70, 14.60, 3.10. Also Ran: Shihorin (Jpn), My Element (Jpn), Kamunyak (Jpn), Ma Puce (Jpn), Cleo's Needle (Jpn), Million Rose (Jpn), Zaratan (Jpn), Kyoei Bonita (Jpn). Click for the JRA chart & video. The post Kizuna Half-Sister To Forever Young Undefeated In Artemis Stakes appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Sam Agars CHARITY GAIN - R6 (7) Turned heads in his first run for David Eustace and will love the step up in distance Jay Rooney ROMANTIC SON - R8 (8) Trialled brilliantly ahead of his Hong Kong debut and has drawn the inside Jack Dawling DENFIELD - R4 (1) Flew home for second last start and looks ready to win again here Phillip Woo NOBLE PURSUIT - R2 (1) Returned a smart winner and can salute again over a suitable trip Shannon (Vincent Wong) COUNTRY DANCER - R1 (3) Had a nice trial at Conghua and can go one better with Purton taking the reins Racing Post Online THE PERFECT MATCH - R5 (2) Has trialled up well ahead of his return today Tom Wood DENFIELD - R4 (1) Produced a good run fresh to suggest he's ready to win second up againView the full article

Arc hero Sottsass (Fr) (Siyouni {Fr}) has been sold and he will stand under the Japan Bloodhorse Breeders' Association banner at Shinzunai Stallion Station beginning in 2025. The news was confirmed by Coolmore to TDN Europe on Saturday morning. Bred by Ecurie des Monceaux, the €340,000 Arqana August grad and Jean-Claude Rouget trainee also won the G1 Prix du Jockey Club and ran third in the Arc at three. Kept in training at four, he added the G1 Prix Ganay besides his Arc heroics for Peter Brant's White Birch Farm before retiring to Coolmore Stud in Ireland for the 2021 season. His eldest foals are juveniles of this year, and he has sired eight winners to date. Japanese group winner Shin Emperor (Fr), a full-brother to Sottsass who topped Arqana's August Sale at €2,100,000 in 2022, ran third in the G1 Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) and G1 Irish Champion Stakes this term. The duo are out of the late blue hen Starlet's Sister (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}), also the dam of American champion and multiple Grade I winner Sistercharlie (Ire) (Myboycharlie {Ire}), and multiple group/graded winner My Sister Nat (Fr) (Acclamation {GB}), who placed thrice at the highest level. Fellow Coolmore stallion Magna Grecia (Ire) (Invincible Spirit {Ire}) is also on the move and will be based at March Hare Stud in 2025. A winner of the 2018 G1 Futurity Trophy and 2018 G1 2000 Guineas for Aidan O'Brien and the Coolmore partners, the 340,000gns Tattersalls December foal has his second crop racing this year. A half-brother to multiple Group 1 winner and current Coolmore stallion St Mark's Basilica (Fr) (Siyouni {Fr}), he has 44 winners so far, including French listed winner Myconian (Ire). Fees for both stallions will be announced at a later date. The post JBBA Welcomes Sottsass To The Japanese Stallion Ranks appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

It was as tight as it gets between the two Irish colts at the end of Saturday's G1 William Hill Futurity Trophy, with Silverton Hill's G2 Beresford Stakes and G3 Tyros Stakes winner Hotazhell (GB) (Too Darn Hot {GB}–Azenzar {GB}, by Danehill Dancer {Ire}) nosing out Delacroix (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}) for the Doncaster feature. Positioned close to the early pace by Shane Foley, the 11-1 shot moved to Ballydoyle's 15-8 favourite passing two out and the two colts with the pattern-race experience soon had it between them. There was some leaning and bumping after battle commenced, but it was a case of six of one and half a dozen of the other with Hotazhell having his nose marginally ahead in the bobber. There was a 4 3/4-length margin back to Wimbledon Hawkeye (GB) (Kameko) in third as the unexposed contenders struggled to make an impact. “He's a very tough horse and he gave everything and dug in deep there,” winning trainer Jessie Harrington said. What a FINISH! Hotazhell lands the Group 1 William Hill Futurity Trophy Stakes at @DoncasterRaces for Shane Foley and @Jessica_Racing… pic.twitter.com/PJwVXO8hHo — At The Races (@AtTheRaces) October 26, 2024 The post Too Darn Hot’s Hotazhell Too Tough In The Futurity Trophy appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Repole Stable homebreds Fierceness and Mentee could become the eighth pair of full siblings to start in a Breeders' Cup World Championships race in the same year. View the full article

The Anthony Cummings-trained El Castello (Castelvecchio) ran out a strong winner of the Gr.1 Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) at Randwick on Saturday under a confident Josh Parr ride. El Castello worked forward under Parr, who pushed the button mid-stretch and had enough in reserve to stave off the challenge of Henlein by a neck with Firm Agreement 1-1/2 lengths away third. Runner-up to Broadsiding (Too Darn Hot) in the Listed Fernhill Handicap (1600m) during the autumn, El Castello has been a revelation this spring. Bred by Brendan and Jo Lindsay’s Cambridge Stud, the son of Castelvecchio has made swift progress stepping from a maiden win to go undefeated in four starts, including a previous victory in the Gr.3 Gloaming Stakes (1800m). The promising stayer is on target to back-up in next week’s Gr.1 Victoria Derby (2500m). “He’s just a very good horse,” Cumming said. “The preparation went perfectly, everything worked out. He turned up the best horse today and I still think he improves again. “It’s a dumb thing to say, I know, but if I had to pick fault today he’s maybe half a run short, but today’s race into next week, he’ll be fine. “The preparation was set up so that today’s race would give him the step to go to the Derby. Looks like that will happen.” By Arrowfield Stud stallion Castelvecchio, El Castello is the first Group One winner for his sire. Out of the Fastnet Rock mare Word Games, it is a family that Cummings knows well, having trained the mare’s dual Group One winning half-brother Fiveandahalfstar (Hotel Grand). Word Games was bought off the track for $120,000 by Brae Sokolski in 2018, and on-sold privately – in-foal to Lonhro – to Cambridge Stud’s new owners Brendan and Jo Lindsay a year later. After missing to Pierro that year, Word Games went to Castelvecchio in his first season of 2020. Word Games has a yearling filly by in-form Cambridge Stud stallion Almanzor and has foaled another filly foal by Almanzor this spring, before visiting the stud’s exciting new sire Chaldean, a Group One winning son of Frankel. “We like Castelvecchio, we sent two or three mares to him that year,” Cambridge Stud chief executive Henry Plumptre said. “It’s that line that we really wanted that Dundeel and High Chaparral line and Castelvecchio was a Group One winner and a very good looking horse. “Scott (Calder) and Cameron (Ring) do our matings and they thought it would be a good mating for the mare. “We bought her privately through Matt Scown from Yarraman Park and it is an old Anthony Cummings family. He has trained a number of the members of that family, most notably Fiveandahalfstar. “He was a good looking horse and he made $220,000 as a yearling at the Magic Millions Sale. “We were very happy with that, just to get the mare off the ground, she’s a young mare and we didn’t have a high reserve. “It’s a wonderful result for Anthony, it’s a wonderful result for Castelvecchio and it’s a fantastic result for Cambridge Stud.” The famed Cambridge nursery has now enjoyed a stellar October, headed by fellow Cambridge Stud bred Ceolwulf (NZ) (Tavistock), who landed the Gr.1 Epsom Handicap (1600m) before winning the Gr.1 King Charles III Stakes (1600m) a fortnight later. In addition the Lindsay colours have been to the fore in recent times through elite-level mares Snazzytavi (NZ) (Tavistock) and Joliestar (Zoustar). Plumptre said it was a privilege to work for the Lindsays who he described as fearless investors but he also deflected much of the credit to the Cambridge Stud team. “The team that we have got at Cambridge Stud, headed by Scott and Cameron, and the people who have helped us along the way like John Foote, they’re a great group,” Plumptre said. “You build a team of mares like that with a group of people, you don’t build it with one person, and they have all had good ideas at different times. “You have got to have people with vision and people like Brendan and Jo who are excited by what is happening next.” View the full article

Connections of multiple Group One winner Belclare (NZ) (Per Incanto) have savoured a bumper payday as the seven-year-old daughter of Per Incanto proved too strong in the A$2 million Gr.2 The Invitation (1400m) at Randwick on Saturday. Under a positive Tyler Schiller ride, Belclare had most of her rivals gasping a fair way from home and she sailed to a comfortable length and a quarter victory as the former Kiwi saluted at her third start for Sydney trainer Bjorn Baker. “I’m very lucky to get this mare,” Baker said. “She’s a dual Group One winner in New Zealand. Lisa Latta is one of New Zealand’s best trainers so I’ve got a ready-made horse for the owners, Deb and Dave Woodhouse. “They entrusted me with her. It’s been a bit of a learning curve but we got it right today. And this is the day that we wanted to get it right, so I’m very grateful.” The expat Kiwi horseman was delighted to pull off a feature win with the mare he had been bullish about since joining his stable and will now consider the next plans. “We’ll just have a good think about it but she was very good today,” Baker said. “She was able to dominate. She’s a very good mare, so that makes it easy. When you’ve got good quality bloodstock, she makes me look good. I’m very grateful to get the opportunity. “She has beaten some absolute topliners. She said she’s up to it. And we know, Kiwis, they’re always strong.” Raced by her breeder David Woodhouse, time had been called on Belclare’s racing career last season, with the two-time winner of the Gr.1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeder’s Stakes (1600m) destined to be sold as a broodmare. She was subsequently offered at Magic Millions’ National Broodmare Sale, where she failed to meet her $700,000 reserve. While initially disappointed with the outcome, Woodhouse has now got good reason to smile as the A$1 million first prize in the Australian Group Two advanced the mare’s career earnings to A$1,934,780. Belclare has now won 12 races, 11 of which were in the care of Awapuni trainer Lisa Latta. By outstanding Little Avondale Stud sire Per Incanto, Belclare is the third foal from the O’Reilly mare Miss Rhythmic (NZ), a winner of one race and herself a sister to Luxe (NZ), who ran third in the Listed Taranaki Oaks Prelude. They are out of the Keeper mare Gymnast (NZ) who in turn was out of the champion filly of her year in Olga’s Pal (NZ) (Straight Strike), whose six wins included the Gr. 1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m). View the full article

Respected trainer Kevin Myers completed a winning treble at Riccarton on Saturday with a dominant performance by Aljay (NZ) (Rock ‘N’ Pop) in the Listed Sothys Spring Classic (2000m). Myers sent six horses south from his Wanganui base for Saturday’s meeting, and he came away with victories by Just Charlie (NZ) (Zed) in the NZB Airfreight Road to Jericho (3000m), He’s Lucid in the Gr.3 War Decree Stakes (1600m), and Aljay in the Spring Classic. He also picked up placings with Kopua (NZ) (Shocking) in the TAB Mile Trial (1400m), Yolo (NZ) (Zed) in the Road to Jericho and Sheaf (NZ) (Eminent) in the Helston Associates Rating 75 (1800m). Aljay faced a difficult task in Saturday’s Spring Classic, carrying 59kg while all of his 11 rivals had either 53kg or 53.5kg. But the Rock ‘N’ Pop gelding, who won the Gr.3 New Zealand Cup (3200m) at this venue two years ago, rose to the challenge and was too tough and too good. Ridden by Jonathan Riddell, Aljay settled towards the back of the field before swooping around the outside to stake his claim at the top of the straight. The seven-year-old powered through the testing Heavy10 ground and hit the front, but it briefly looked like he was going to face a stern challenge down the straight from Dazzling Miss (NZ) (Proisir), Fellini (NZ) (Belardo) and Lombardi (NZ) (Verdi). Aljay saw them coming and lifted again, forging clear and opening up a two-length winning margin over Dazzling Miss (NZ) (Proisir). From a 43-start career, Aljay has now recorded 10 wins, eight seconds and seven thirds. He has earned $523,387 in stakes for Myers, who shares ownership with Charlie Gestro. Aljay is named for Gestro’s initials, LJ. Myers paid $39,000 to buy Aljay from Ardsley Stud’s draft at the 2019 Ready to Run Sale at Karaka. Saturday’s Spring Classic was an unexpected first ride on Aljay for Riddell. “He’s a lovely old horse and I was lucky to get the ride on him today,” Riddell said. “I was supposed to be riding another runner, but then Kevin put this horse in and there was nothing else I could ride at the weights. So I was lucky that Kevin put me on the horse, and I appreciate that. “Gee, he’s a tough horse. Those track conditions didn’t worry him at all. He was effectively carrying a stone more than the rest of the field, which is not easy, but he did it comfortably in the end. “Kevin owns the horse too along with Charlie, so they’ve made a bit of money with him, the two old fellas!” The TAB now rates Aljay a $5 chance to claim a second New Zealand Cup victory at Riccarton on November 16. He shares favouritism with last year’s runner-up Nest Egg (NZ) (Reliable Man). View the full article

The Cox Plate has had one of the great wins as Via Sistina pulled off a stunning victory in at Mooney Valley. View the full article

Veteran handler eyeing more success after a treble at the city circuit’s annual day meeting 12 months ago.View the full article

Jye McNeil returns to the mounting yard aboard Lady Jones after winning the Tesio Stakes at Moonee Valley. (Photo by George Sal/Racing Photos) Stephen Brown and Jye McNeil have combined with Lady Jones ($14) to take out the Group 3 Tesio Stakes and final race of the day at Moonee Valley on Saturday afternoon. Following a consistent run of form throughout her three starts this preparation, and after a positive ride from McNeil, the five-year-old mare claimed her maiden Group win. The daughter of Toronado jumped the fastest from barrier 10, which allowed her to cross the field to settle outside of Lievore ($31), and they ran the race along at a sedate tempo to suit themselves. With the race favourites, Firestorm ($2.50) and Private Legacy ($4.20), settling well back in the field, McNeil got going on the eventual winner at the 400m mark and put the acid test on the leader. None of the swoopers were taking any ground of the top two with 200m to go, and they both settled down to fight out the finish, with Lady Jones getting her head down when it counted to claim a tough win over Lievore and Little Mix ($7.50). 2024 Tesio Stakes replay – Lady Jones Stephen Brown was on course to speak about the win post-race. “Really nice (win) because we’ve bred her ourselves and it’s been a long haul,” Brown said. “I had doubts about the 2000 (metres), but she’s proven that she can do it. “We were gutted when she got beaten at Caulfield, but we put it down to the hard track. “She’ d only got shod that week, so she had a bit of trouble with her feet. “We left the old shoes on her and she’s done the job. “I talked to two form people, and one said go back, one said go forward, and then the go-back bloke said, no, then you should go forward. So that was the plan. “That was the plan to go forward on her. He did exactly what he did and I said ‘if you can slot in third or fourth, I’ ll be happy’.” Jye McNeil brought up his first winner of the day in the last race, and he spoke post-race. “We had a nice run from a very awkward gate and felt like I got to the leader quite easily and then it obviously fought back so she had to dig deep to give me everything she had, but a great training performance by Brownie and racking up a win,” McNeil said. “She certainly does (have good ability). “It’s my first time riding her. Obviously, the opportunity obviously came about with the weight and as you touched on, she’s got great qualities. “It’s been a challenging couple of days for me, so great to end it this way.” Horse racing news
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Star jockeys lock horns aboard Lebensstil and Liberty Island in Japanese blockbuster.View the full article

The Moonee Valley faithful erupted as Via Sistina, the champion mare trained by Chris Waller, stormed to a dominant eight-length victory in the 2024 Ladbrokes Cox Plate. This remarkable win marks a number of significant achievements including Waller’s fifth Cox Plate success following his four-peat with Winx (2015-18). Jockey James McDonald etched his name deeper […] The post Via Sistina Blazes to Historic 8 Length Ladbrokes Cox Plate 2024 Victory! appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

Belclare winning The Invitation at Royal Randwick for trainer Bjorn Baker. Photo: Bradley Photos Connections of multiple Group One winner Belclare have savoured a bumper payday as the seven-year-old daughter of Per Incanto proved too strong in the $2 million Group 2 The Invitation (1400m) at Randwick on Saturday. Under a positive Tyler Schiller ride, Belclare had most of her rivals gasping a fair way from home, and she sailed to a comfortable length and a quarter victory as the former Kiwi saluted at her third start for Sydney trainer Bjorn Baker. “I’m very lucky to get this mare,” Baker said. “She’s a dual Group One winner in New Zealand. Lisa Latta is one of New Zealand’s best trainers so I’ve got a ready-made horse for the owners, Deb and Dave Woodhouse. “They entrusted me with her. It’s been a bit of a learning curve but we got it right today. And this is the day that we wanted to get it right, so I’m very grateful.” The expat Kiwi horseman was delighted to pull off a feature win with the mare he had been bullish about since joining his stable and will now consider the next plans. “We’ll just have a good think about it but she was very good today,” Baker said. “She was able to dominate. She’s a very good mare, so that makes it easy. When you’ve got good quality bloodstock, she makes me look good. I’m very grateful to get the opportunity. “She has beaten some absolute topliners. She said she’s up to it. And we know, Kiwis, they’re always strong.” Raced by her breeder David Woodhouse, time had been called on Belclare’s racing career last season, with the two-time winner of the Group 1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeder’s Stakes (1600m) destined to be sold as a broodmare. She was subsequently offered at Magic Millions’ National Broodmare Sale, where she failed to meet her $700,000 reserve. While initially disappointed with the outcome, Woodhouse has now got good reason to smile as the $1 million first prize in the Australian Group Two advanced the mare’s career earnings to $1,934,780. Belclare has now won 12 races, 11 of which were in the care of Awapuni trainer Lisa Latta. By outstanding Little Avondale Stud sire Per Incanto, Belclare is the third foal from the O’Reilly mare Miss Rhythmic, a winner of one race and herself a sister to Luxe, who ran third in the Listed Taranaki Oaks Prelude. They are out of the Keeper mare Gymnast who in turn was out of the champion filly of her year in Olga’s Pal, whose six wins included the Group 1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m). Horse racing news View the full article

Via Sistina (IRE) ridden by James McDonald wins the Cox Plate at Moonee Valley Racecourse on October 26, 2024. (Photo by Pat Scala/Racing Photos) After a turbulent week for the Chris Waller stable and Via Sistina ($5), the star mare has run away with a dominant victory in the 2024 Group 1 Cox Plate at Moonee Valley on Saturday afternoon. Although Via Sistina will go down as the winner of the race, her jockey James McDonald brought up his 100th Group 1 win of his riding career and his third straight success in the race, following Anamoe and Romantic Warrior in the previous two years. As expected, Pride Of Jenni ($4.40) worked across from her barrier to take up the lead, and the worries about race favourite Prognosis ($3.50) not jumping were quickly put to bed as the Japanese raider settled behind her. Declan Bates asked the Ciaron Maher-trained mare to quicken mid-race as she always does, but Damian Lane chose to stay with her on Prognosis, only allowing her to get a two-length lead on the rest of the field. By the time they hit the 800m mark, it was clear that Pride Of Jenni was starting to tire, and the runs started to come from Prognosis, Via Sistina and Mr Brightside ($7). However, as soon as Prognosis took over, McDonald and Via Sistina went straight past him on the home turn, and they took off with the prize, careering away with a breathtaking eight-length win in the Cox Plate. 2024 Cox Plate replay – Via Sistina Chris Waller was understandably emotional in his post-race interview when talking about Via Sistina’s win. “It was a big week but I’ ve just had full support from the owners, my staff, all the team, Moonee Valley. It’s just been overwhelming,” Waller said. “There’s not been any negativity, only positive vibes. I’ m so proud of her, so proud of her. “There’s probably 10 key factors, and it’s not anything else except common sense, simple as that. “We never lost faith and just just followed our instincts. “We’ve had to do these things before. You just had to forget what happened on Tuesday, she’s a good horse and it was my job to prove it. “The truth is when she got up and when James got up, all James said to me, the Cox Plate is not on today.” James McDonald was also emotional following his historical win. “Just so lucky. What this mare’s been through, and she’s just an absolute star. I’m so lucky to be part of it,” McDonald said. “To Chris Waller and all his team, I see Tommy Simpson working on her on Tuesday morning. “Chris Harwood flew down on Thursday to work her. And all of them, all of them said, ‘ Excuse my French’, she’ll shit in. “I honestly can’t believe it. I love this race. “I love this place. And to win a Cox Plate with Chris Waller, who is my greatest supporter and so special. “It’s so fitting he’s brought up my 100th and to do it in such a prestigious race like the Cox Plate. I’m blessed, so blessed. “She’s got an unbelievable sustained speed. And I think it’s a huge asset to have in this high-pressure race. “The pressure was on from the get-go, and (Pride Of) Jenni didn’t have her peace. This horse has really worked really well here, even though I fell off her on Tuesday. “She felt like she was gliding around the course really well and I had a quiet first half, and I wheeled her out, kept her happy. “She seems just to grow a bit of confidence, and it was a Winx like performance. I can’t believe it. I can’t believe it. “I had such a smooth run the first half and I thought, I just wheel out, keep it smooth, blend in and she loved it. “She won like Winx, she blended and gee, it’s just a phenomenal performance.” Horse racing news
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What Happy Valley Races Where Happy Valley Racecourse – Wong Nai Chung Rd, Happy Valley, Hong Kong When Sunday, October 27, 2024 First Race 12:45pm HKT (3:45pm AEDT) Visit Dabble Happy Valley Racecourse is the destination for Hong Kong racing on Sunday afternoon, with a rare 10-race program set for decision. The rail is in the C position the entire circuit, and although there is some light rainfall expected in the lead-up, it shouldn’t have any affect on the current Good 4 rating. With the rail out, punters may want to favour on-speed runners with the opening event getting underway at 12:45pm local time. Best Bet at Happy Valley: Romantic Son Romantic Son was a dominant 3.5-length maiden winner at Geelong on March 16 before heading to Hong Kong and looks to have acclimatised well since transferring to the David Hayes barn. The son of Smart Missile has improved with every piece of work under his belt, particularly catching the eye when quickening at Sha Tin on October 15. Leading hoop Zac Purton should gain an economical run in transit from barrier one, and provided he can get clear at a crucial stage, Romantic Son should prove hard to hold out first-up. Best Bet Race 8 – #8 Romantic Son (1) 4yo Gelding | T: David Hayes | J: Zac Purton (54.5kg) Bet with Neds Next Best at Happy Valley: Horsepower Back-to-back barrier trial wins should hold Horsepower in good stead for this first-up assignment. The four-year-old gelding has shown terrific early speed in his trials, with Zac Purton being legged aboard to score with plenty in hand at this course and distance on October 5. Watch for Purton to launch across and sit outside the leader throughout the journey, and although he lacks race-day fitness, Horsepower should prove too classy despite spending 10 months off the scene. Next Best Race 9 – #10 Horsepower (7) 4yo Gelding | T: Frankie Lor | J: Zac Purton (55.5kg) Bet with Picklebet Best Value at Happy Valley: Telecom Dragon Telecom Dragon returns after a total forgive at Sha Tin on July 1, with the post-race vet report noting blood in the trachea. He looks to be back to his consistent best based on his recent barrier trial on October 15, with the son of Derryn cruising through the wire behind Super Sixty to suggest he’s ready for a first-up assault. Barrier one should allow Matthew Chadwick to stalk the leading pair throughout, and once off the rail, Telecom Dragon should be powering through the line at a good each-way price with horse racing bookmakers. Best Value Race 5 – #3 Telecom Dragon (1) 4yo Gelding | T: Dennis Yip | J: Matthew Chadwick (58kg) Bet with Dabble Sunday quaddie tips for Happy Valley Happy Valley quadrella selections October 27, 2024 2-4-5 2-3-8-9-10 2-3-4-10-11 1-6-7-12 Horse racing tips View the full article

Plenty Of Ammo ridden by Jordan Childs winning the Crystal Mile at Moonee Valley. (Photo by Brett Holburt/Racing Photos) Plenty Of Ammo ($4) may have only had six starts before running in the Group 2 Crystal Mile at Moonee Valley on Saturday afternoon, but she has proved too good in the concluding stages of the 1600m contest. The Symon Wilde-trained mare put the writing on the wall first-up when she was an unlucky runner in the Listed Paris Lane Stakes, and she showed it was no fluke by taking out her first Group 2 victory in her first attempt in Group grade. Jordan Childs was legged back aboard the daughter of Rebel Raider, and with the win, he continues his unbeaten streak of four wins from four starts aboard Plenty Of Ammo. After jumping well from barrier four, Childs settled midfield off the fence and gained an economical run three-wide on the back of her stablemate, Sirileo Miss ($13). Before the home turn, Childs released the brakes on the eventual winner, and she was set alight four-wide in the final 300m to chase down Royal Champion ($4.20), who led the field throughout. There were a couple of nervous moments with some of the placegetters and trailing horses, but it was all honours to the winner as Plenty Of Ammo took over in the final 50m to record an impressive victory. 2024 Crystal Mile replay – Plenty Of Ammo Bill Wilde represented the winning stable in the post-race interview. “She’s been a bit of a handful on this thing,” Wilde said. “She’s a lovely mare. She’s a homebred. “We’ve had a few issues with her, she’s been temperamental, but today she performed beautifully and I just love the way that she paraded beautifully. “She’s got a few dapples on her; behaved herself beautifully, so today that was a result we hoped for and expected. “Onwards and upwards with her.” Jordan Childs was complimentary of the winner post-race. “She’s got a lot of ability for a lightly raced mare and the team, Symon Wilde and the team, they’ve done a good job of her just to get her through a few issues, but she’s come back in really good nick and great to get a good win for the team on a special day like this,” Childs said. “I was probably a pair further back than where I wanted to be and along the side I was able to get out onto the stablemate’s (Sirieo Miss) back and she just took a little bit to wind up. “I think first time around The Valley, just getting a little bit lost, but once she balanced up in the straight, she was really good through the line.” Horse racing bookmakers are taking no chances with Plenty Of Ammo, tightening her into $8 in the Group 1 Empire Rose Stakes futures market in case the stable chooses to run her again next weekend. Horse racing news
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What Coonabarabran Cup Day Where Coonabarabran Jockey Club – Reservoir Rd, Coonabarabran NSW 2357 When Sunday, October 27, 2024 First Race 1:25pm AEDT Visit Dabble Country racing heads to Coonabarabran Jockey Club on Sunday afternoon, with a competitive eight-part program lined up for punters. The $75,000 Coonabarabran Cup (1600m) headlines the action, and with no rain forecast to hit the course proper, participants should be treated to a genuine Good 4 surface. The opening event is scheduled to get underway at 1:25pm AEDT. Coonabarabran Cup Tip: Dances With Hooves The Cameron Crockett-trained Dances With Hooves appears ready to peak third-up into the campaign. The daughter of Real Steel hit the line well over an unsuitable trip at Newcastle on October 19 and should relish stepping out to the 1600m where she’s already a two-time winner. Ashley Morgan will have no choice but to drag back from barrier 10, however, Dances With Hooves should have a superior turn-of-foot, so watch for this guy to storm down the centre of the course to claim the 2024 Coonabarabran Cup. Coonabarabran Cup Race 7 – #5 Dances With Hooves (10) 4yo Mare | T: Cameron Crockett | J: Ashley Morgan (55kg) Bet with Neds Best Bet at Coonabarabran: Jacenza Jacenza found one better at Coonamble on October 13, missing the start before making strong inroads from the rear of the field to get within a head of Castlebar Road. Barrier one should offset any slow start this time around, and with Chelsea Hillier likely to be aggressive in the early stages, Jacenza should get his chance to prove his class in this open Showcase Sprint. Best Bet Race 6 – #3 Jacenza (1) 5yo Gelding | T: Rodney Northam | J: Chelsea Hillier (56.5kg) Bet with Picklebet Best Value at Coonabarabran: Atomic Forty Seven The Luke Thomas-trained Atomic Forty Seven should relish the drop back to country company after being outclassed at Newcastle on October 1. He looks well placed thanks to the claim of apprentice hoop Lauren Van Tijn in the saddle, and with front-running tactics likely to be adopted from the middle draw (7), punters can expect Atomic Forty Seven to give a bold sight at an each-way price with horse racing bookmakers. Best Value Race 5 – #5 Atomic Forty Seven (7) 4yo Gelding | T: Luke Thomas | J: Lauren Van Tijn (a4kg) (56kg) Bet with Dabble Sunday quaddie tips for Coonabarabran Coonabarabran quadrella selections October 27, 2024 1-2-5-10 1-3-6 1-5 2-5-8-11-12 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Josh Parr and El Castello after winning the Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes. Photo: Bradleyphotos.com.au The Anthony Cummings-trained El Castello ($3.10) has kept his undefeated record intact for the campaign, securing victory in the Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) at Randwick on Saturday afternoon. The Castelvecchio colt picked up his fourth-consecutive win of the preparation on Saturday, fending off the late challenge of Henlein ($5.00), and proving the Group 3 Gloaming Stakes (1800m) on October 12 was no fluke. Joshua Parr managed to navigate his way to the one-one throughout as the Brad Widdup-trained Noises ($81.00) launched across the field from barrier eight and stretched out at a strong tempo. Henlein had no excuses after landing on the leaders’ back throughout, while Swiftfalcon ($3.80) was ridden cold once again after drawing out in barrier 10. There was a mid-race move by Zac Lloyd aboard rank outsider Flying Argento (151.00), leaving a few key chances chasing a long way out. El Castello worked his way to the lead with 300m left to travel; however, Henlein loomed large to his outside and appeared ready to stroll straight past. It simply never eventuated, however, with El Castello kicking into another gear to boot clear to put pave to his rivals to secure the $2 million prize. 2024 Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes Replay – El Castello Anthony Cummings couldn’t have been happier with how the preparation unfolded and suggested one more run could be on the cards in Victoria. “He’s just a very good horse,” said Cummings. “The preparation went perfectly, everything worked out. He turned up the best horse today and I still think he improves again. “It’s a dumb thing to say, I know, but if I had to pick fault today he’s maybe half a run short but today’s race into next week, he’ll be fine. All to say, we’re in good shape. “But we’ve got to get him home and make sure that he’s OK and tick a fair few boxes before we do that. But that was the plan. The preparation was set up so that today’s race would give him the step to go to the Derby. Looks like that will happen.” Joshua Parr was elated with the victory and picking up his third win the Spring Champion Stakes before suggesting he’ll be aboard once again provided El Castello heads to Melbourne next Saturday. “Wow. That was thrilling, I tell you,” said Parr. “The two went down the side, they took off and I just said, ‘no, not just yet my man, let’s just wait’. I was able to wait. We topped the hill and I just briefly started to let him go and his ears just slightly went different directions, he was waiting for some company. “Henlein obviously came to him and he knuckled down and his last furlong was so strong. Incredible training performance and I’m so proud to be a part of it. “I’ll be at Flemington on Derby Day. So if he’s there, I’ll be on him, that’s for sure. This is fantastic.” El Castello is now the clear $3.50 favourite for the Group 1 VRC Derby (2500m) at Flemington next Saturday. Horse racing news
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