Wandering Eyes

It’s 20 days until the running of the IRT New Zealand Trotting Cup at Addington Raceway on Tuesday, November 12 so why not look back at the winner of the great race 20 years ago. In 2004 it was Just An Excuse By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk There was drama before, during and after Just An Excuse’s win in 2024. Before the great race the defending champion was far from healthy. He had jarring up issues, was off his food and his lead-up form did not look promising. During the race he had to contend with starting off the back mark of 10 metres against a field that included hotshots Elsu and Mister D G. And then after the race co-breeder Ollie Haines learned that his good friend Graham Higgins had died in the stand nearby. It was emotional on a number of levels. In 2004 Just An Excuse wasn’t just a New Zealand Cup winner – the horse, known as “Lordie”, was a two time winner. He went on to claim the Free For All three days later, the first to do the double since Christian Cullen in 1998. That win on November 9 2004 also gave driver Todd “The Wizard” Mitchell an incredible fourth win in the New Zealand Cup in six years, following on from Homin Hosed (1999), Gracious Knight (2022) and then Just An Excuse a year earlier. Throughout his career Just An Excuse was trained by Robert Mitchell at Raglan and driven by his son Todd. As a weanling Just An Excuse was considered a liability on account of having a club foot. But appearances can be deceiving and he would go to win 17 races from 39 lifetime starts and accrue over $1m. In 2024, after having a very disrupted build up, the defending champion went out a $7.30 third favourite behind his two more vaunted opponents, Elsu and Mister D G. It was a two-horse race they said. Post race Mitchell senior chided the media saying “I don’t know why you fellas wrote him off.” All three started off 10m with Elsu making the first move with David Butcher sweeping round to the lead. Just An Excuse bided his time before doing the same and sitting parked briefly before Mister D G gave him the perfect one-one cover. Turning for home Elsu looked to have the wood on his opponents only for Just An Excuse to peel out and wear down the pacemaker in impressive fashion, winning by a neck, in 4:01.2 It meant that Just An Excuse had just won the 100th and the 101st editions of the great race. On both occasions he’d beaten Elsu into second place. And just for good measure he got third in his third New Zealand Cup in 2005, behind Mainland Banner and Alta Serena. Just An Excuse’s last race was as a seven-year-old on December 23, 2005. His retirement came to a premature end two years later when he suffered a paddock injury. He broke his leg and was put down in June 2008. At the time Robert Mitchell said : “He has been such a great horse for us and really didn’t deserve to go like this.” ​ View the full article

Show day Twilight slot races taking shape The slots are filling up fast for THE ASCENT and THE VELOCITY as part of the Show Day Twilight races at Addington Raceway on Friday, November 15. In the past 24 hours two more horses have been announced, with Tyron Eros for The Tyre General Giti in THE ASCENT and He’s From Heaven as Entain’s pacer for THE VELOCITY. The Kiwi-bred He’s From Heaven has been racing in Victoria and has a career record of eight wins from 16 starts. Tyron Eros, bred and raced by the Neumanns in Ashburton, has won five from 10 starts, including last year’s Group 1 IRT Ace of Clubs at Addington. Two starts ago when winning at Addington he also set a new 2600 metre record for the colts and gelding in a time adjusted 3:17.8, lowering Oscar Bonavena’s old mark. Top Aussie driver looking for drives IRT New Zealand Trotting Cup winner Cameron Hart will be back at Addington on Tuesday, November 12 and he’s on the look out for drives. Last year he guided Swayzee to victory in the country’s biggest ever race and he is set to return this year. He is expected to drive at Addington on both Cup and Show day as well at Ashburton on Thursday, November 14. Anyone keen to engage Hart are encouraged to contact the club involved. Wednesday slot for The Box Seat Next week’s The Box Seat will be a day later than usual, with an 8pm timeslot next Wednesday (October 30). It has been held back a day because of Ashburton’s massive meeting on Labour day Monday. Williamson passes 1100 career wins Thanks to four wins on the day, Nathan Williamson has passed 1100 winning drives. The Branxholme trainer-driver was in great form at Ascot Park on Sunday with his milestone win coming with Drummershavtime in the Woodlands Motors Mobile Pace. With Foxing Easton and Flying Ellie also winning Williamson now has 1002 wins overall. He has 54 wins in 2024 so far, which puts him seventh nationally behind Blair Orange(153), John Dunn (116), Tim Williams (74), Sam Ottley (68) , brother Matthew Williamson (63) and Zachary Butcher (58). On the training front Steve and Amanda Telfer went past 100 wins for the year when Rock Or Bust won at Addington on Friday night. They also won with Bettors Anvil to be at 101 and second in the premiership behind Robert and Jenna Dunn on 123. Vale Heather Tangye A well-respected member of the harness racing community, Heather Tangye was farewelled this week after “a wonderful life”. Among the very good horses she bred were Liquid Lightning (6 wins), Sir Andy (9), James Holmes (5) and Willow Chip (6). “She loved racehorses and understood the complexities of caring for them,” says her son and well-known trainer Bruce Negus, “she was a thoughtful woman who supported everyone she came across.” “She raised five children on a horse trainer’s budget and yet we wanted for nothing.” She was 94. HRNZ and Sires’ Stakes roadshow details Breeders and all industry participants are invited to come and listen to HRNZ Chief Executive Brad Steele explain HRNZ’s long term strategy for growth and sustainability under The Future Starts Now. Martin Pierson from the NZ Sires’ Stakes Board will also speak on the opportunities under the banner of “Our Most Trusted Brand.” The Christchurch event will be at Addington Raceway at 5.30 – 7.30pm Thursday October 31, with Southland’s at the Makarewa Country Club from 7pm on Wednesday November 6. Events at Pukekohe and Cambridge are also planned for the end of November with dates to follow. Latest Sires’ Stakes newsletter out now One thing New Zealand harness racing has over the other racing codes in this country is a world class animal racing on home soil and there are many of them contesting Sires’ Stakes Series finals and other Classic races in the coming months. The $50,000 Garrard’s Sires’ Stakes Sophomore Classic promises to be one of the highlights of Ashburton’s huge day of racing on “Magic Monday” on Monday, October 28. It is also a busy time for the NZ Sires’ Stakes Board right now in the lead up to the biggest week of the year. For their latest newsletter click here Successful broodmare dies Wonderful broodmare Inspiring Dash has died, at aged 24. A winner of five on the track the Falcon Seelster mare then had 13 foals for Ken and Anne Spicer but has been struggling with health issues of late. Included in her progeny were Venus Serena (16 wins, $727,012) and Dashing Major (8 wins, $151,565.) Her own foals, and daughters and grand daughters have produced over 30 individual winners for over $3.7m in stakes, through the likes of Rona Lorraine, Sheriff, Wrangler, Laver, and Cyrus. There have been nine Group 1 wins and two Group 3s. In 2023 she was a Canterbury Broodmare Excellence Award Winner. New role for Saundry Bernard Saundry, who is well known in the racing community on both sides of the Tasman, is the new chair of Harness Racing Victoria. He was Chief Executive of the organisation for eight years from 1993 and has also been chief executive of Racing Victoria and New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing. Club News : Kaikoura Racing at the world’s best looking course is not far away. On Sunday, November 3 a Fast10 race day with 20 minute gaps between races will be held at Kaikoura’s South Bay race track. The start time is 3.48pm with gold coin entry as a donation to the local cricket club. Monday is Alabar Kaikoura Cup Day starting at midday. $10 entry per person over 18 years of age. Please pay at the gate. Plenty of food and beverage options. Club News : Tuapeka The Tuapeka Harness Racing Club bring their annual Cup Day race meeting back to Ascot Park Raceway in Invercargill this Sunday, 27 October. This is the fourth year the club has raced in Invercargill and the meeting has proved very popular with good crowds each year. The Tuapeka Club bring a wonderful mix of great racing allied to plenty of free activity for the children making it an ideal day out for the entire family each year. The feature race is the $20,000 Tuapeka Lodge Cup Handicap Pace over 2700m. It is race 8 on the day, timed to start at 3.48pm. Race goers can enjoy a day out at the Top Of The Park with superb viewing and full hospitality for just $60 per head. Contact Southern Harness Racing’s Promotions Officer Lindsay Beer on 021 351 499 or at lindsay.beer@xtra.co.nz for more information. Childrens entertainment is free on the day with mini jeeps and a bouncy castle while the first 100 children on course will receive a free Mr Whippy ice cream and there will be Kidz Kartz Pony Racing. The first race is timed to start at 12.30pm and admission is free. View the full article

An accountant with extensive sporting experience, Grant Jarrold has been appointed as the Chair of the new Harness Racing New Zealand Board. Among his leadership roles, Jarrold is best known for his work as the current Chair of the Crusaders Board. The seven directors were finalised following an extensive recruitment and selection process, with three being appointed by a nomination panel and the remaining four being elected by clubs and kindred bodies at the HRNZ AGM in Christchurch over the weekend. To see more click here View the full article

Trainer John 'Shark' Hanlon has had his ten-month ban handed to him for bringing racing into disrepute reduced to six on appeal. Hanlon, who trains last year's King George VI Chase hero Hewick, was found by the Referrals Committee of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board to have acted in a manner that “caused significant prejudice to the integrity, proper conduct and good reputation of the sport of racing” in the removal of a dead horse from his yard earlier this year. A horse within his care was carried on an open trailer which was towed by Hanlon's branded horsebox, with the body left on display to the public after a tarpaulin became displaced during the journey. A member of the public videoed the incident and it was widely circulated on social media, which attracted further media attention and led to the IHRB bringing charges against Hanlon, saying the conduct “attracted significant public opprobrium and adverse comment” both for the trainer personally and racing in general. Hanlon appealed the severity of the sanction – due to begin on December 1 – and had already been unsuccessful in attempting to delay the beginning of the ban until April to give him time to prepare a legal case and make specific business arrangements. Hanlon felt the punishment could have been a monetary fine, but the appeals panel rejected this, saying Hanlon's conduct “passed the threshold of attracting only a financial penalty”. The second criticism by the trainer was the length of the suspension, given in his view it had failed to take into account the differences between this and similar other cases, namely those of trainer Gordon Elliott and jockey Rob James, banned for 12 months each with six and eight months suspended respectively. In giving its verdict on the appeal, the panel said: “Having considered all of the evidence and arguments we have come to the conclusion that the Referrals Committee ought to have fixed a shorter headline sanction of six months in this case in order to take account of a major difference between Mr Hanlon's conduct and that of Messrs. Elliott and James. “In their cases, the lack of respect demonstrated to the carcass of the deceased animal in each case was deliberate and wilful. Mr Hanlon's was not. He was negligent albeit to a high degree. We do not think that the reduction of the headline penalty from one of 12 months withdrawal of licence to 10 months adequately addresses that major difference. “It also has to be borne in mind that the negligence of Mr Hanlon occurred in a single activity of relatively short duration. We are not to be taken as holding that negligence as distinct from a deliberate act might not attract a 10- or even 12-month withdrawal of licence in appropriate circumstances. Had there been continuing acts of negligence here, then the 10-month figure might well be justified. “However, that was not the case and so we are of opinion that the headline figure of six months withdrawal is the correct one.” Hanlon's licence to train will be withdrawn for a period of six months from December 1 and the Referrals Committee may consider an application to conditionally suspend the last three months of the six-month withdrawal sanction. The post Shark Hanlon Has Suspension Of Licence Reduced To Six Months On Appeal appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Australian champion sire Snitzel (Aus) brought up a milestone 150th stakes winner when the Ciaron Maher-trained Saint Emilion (Aus) won the Listed Geelong Classic for three-year-olds on Wednesday. Now 22, Snitzel–who stands for A$247,500 (around €150,000) at Arrowfield Stud near Scone in New South Wales–was described as “a marvel” by Arrowfield bloodstock manager Jon Freyer in the aftermath of Saint Emilion's win, following on from recent triumphs for Lady Shenandoah (Aus) in the G1 Flight Stakes and Makarena (Aus) in the G2 Golden Pendant. “He's got it and there are not many stallions that do,” Freyer said of their four-time champion sire of Australia and four-time champion two-year-old sire, speaking to The Thoroughbred Report. “He was an exceptional racehorse, he's got a great pedigree, and he's a beautiful physical specimen. He's just got that ability to transmit those genetics to a lot of his offspring. “Here he is in the twilight of his career, but he's having a fantastic season. He had a brilliant filly who won the Flight Stakes and he's got [G2 Roman Consul Stakes winner] Switzerland running around. It seems never ending and we're just thrilled. He's been a marvel. “The thing that makes them is they've just got that X-factor. Most horses who have got the genetics are capable of a really high rate in producing superior horses.” He continued, “So many people who have been invested in the Thoroughbred industry have used him or been associated with him. He's served them so well and he's delivered returns back in spades. He's changed lives for so many people. “They've won big races or they've sold a yearling for spectacular money. There's a statue of him at Arrowfield and I think there have been hundreds, maybe thousands of people, who have come up to touch it for luck, and who appreciate what he's done for them.” As for what the future holds for Snitzel, Freyer added, “Obviously, he's just one of those horses that has enjoyed good health. He's always a horse who's looked younger than he really is. “He's slowed down a bit in recent years. He's going to cover a limited book this year, probably limited to two mares a day, but he's always been brilliantly fertile. And again, this year he's getting all his mares in foal so well.” The post Australian Champion Sire Snitzel Reaches 150 Stakes Winners at Geelong appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Golden State Racing (GSR) has reached an agreement with The Stronach Group's (TSG) Xpressbet, allowing punters to be able to wager on Pleasanton through that particular ADW platform when racing resumes this Friday. GSR launched its inaugural 26-day Thoroughbred meet at Pleasanton Saturday, Oct. 19. But punters hoping to wager on its product through Xpressbet and the New York Racing Association's NYRA Bets were shut out–a scenario stemming from a disagreement over the fees that form a key part of a track's purses and revenues. Similarly, Elite Turf Club players were also unable to play on the Pleasanton product. Owned by TSG and NYRA, Elite Turf Club is one of the primary Computer Assisted Wagering (CAW) platforms in the U.S. According to Larry Swartzlander, executive director of GSR and the California Authority of Racing Fairs (CARF), Elite Turf Club teams will also now be able to wager on Pleasanton. Swartzlander said that the rates for Xpressbet will remain the same as on the fairs over the summer with no reductions. “They were exactly what we had asked for,” said Swartzlander. An Apr. 4 letter from the Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) to Swartzlander shows the fairs this summer charged Xpressbet, NYRA and other platforms a hub fee of 5% for ADW wagers accepted by California residents, and a host fee of no less than 7.5% of gross out-of-state handle wagered by out-of-state account holders. “I'll give thanks to [Thoroughbred Owners of California executive director], Bill Nader and the TOC, they stepped forward, totally supported our position,” said Swartzlander. In a message to key stakeholders Tuesday, Swartzlander wrote that TSG CEO Aidan Butler “was in total support of GSR and will continue to support racing in Northern California.” GSR has hired Churchill Downs International (CDI) to handle their rate negotiations. Swartzlander said Tuesday that CDI would continue negotiations with NYRA on Wednesday. The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) is privy to those negotiations, Swartzlander added. The post GSR Reaches Wagering Agreement With Xpressbet, Elite Turf Club appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Brian Ellison's Northumberland Plate winner Onesmoothoperator (Dialed In) put himself in contention for a tilt at the G1 Lexus Melbourne Cup with an emphatic victory in the G3 Geelong Cup on Wednesday. Four horses have completed the Geelong Cup-Melbourne Cup double, with the first being Dunaden (Fr) (Nicobar {GB}) for French trainer Mikel Delzangles in 2011. Onesmoothoperator needed to pick up a penalty at Geelong to be guaranteed a run at Flemington on Tuesday, November 4, but Ellison can now look forward to saddling another runner in 'the race that stops a nation' after his six-year-old cruised to victory by two and a quarter lengths in the hands of Craig Williams. Ellison will be hoping for better luck in the Melbourne Cup than when saddling two runners in 2011, with Moyenne Corniche (GB) (Selkirk) and Saptapadi (Ire) (Indian Ridge {Ire}) both finishing unplaced. He was also due to saddle Carte Diamond (Theatrical {Ire}) in the 2005 edition following an encouraging run in the G1 Caulfield Cup, before a freak training accident forced him to miss the race. “He was brilliant,” Ellison said of Onesmoothoperator “He's been working great out here and he's adapted to it really well. You could just tell that he's enjoyed being here. He's been on the go a heck of a long time, but I was almost worried he was doing too well–he was eating so much! “Craig has jumped off and said he'll improve for that run. He should get in now and he's paid for his trip–that was worth £160,000 to the winner. I've been out here with four others, Carte Diamond, the two that ran together and Bay Story. He ran well in a couple of races and we even sent him to Perth were he was second.” He added, “I think if you've got the right horse and your owner is willing to pay the money, it's worth coming over. They have to adapt in a short time, but I knew very quickly he had. He's just thrived, but then Saptapadi didn't handle it at all. “It's a freebie now, going for the Melbourne Cup. Obviously, it's a different ball game taking on Vauban and the like, but we'll see. He's at least proved he can win on grass now–that's his first win!” Williams is set to maintain the partnership with Onesmoothoperator in the Melbourne Cup and the jockey, who guided Vow And Declare (Aus) (Declaration Of War) to victory in the 2019 renewal, is confident that his mount has the right attributes to run a big race. “I think he's well placed for this year's race and that's all you're ever asking for,” Williams told racenet.com.au. “You're looking for the best horse in that year and he ticks good boxes. He stays really well. He's been on a synthetic track and a very firm track today. He's won on soft and he runs over long distance. Today it was like riding on cotton wool, the way he was. “Brian Ellison and his team have done a great job. He's a really fit horse and a healthy horse. I think he's only got improvement to come from him.” That's Onesmoothoperator The import makes a mess of them in the 2024 Geelong Cup @BERacingLtd @CWilliamsJockey pic.twitter.com/OtrkUC6ka9 — Racing.com (@Racing) October 23, 2024 The post Onesmoothoperator Enters Melbourne Cup Equation with Geelong Win appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

What 2024 Cox Plate Where Moonee Valley Racecourse – Melbourne, Victoria When Saturday, October 26, 2024 Prizemoney $5,000,000 Distance 2040m Status Group 1 Conditions Weight-For-Age 2023 Winner Romantic Warrior (7) | Trainer: Danny Shum | Jockey: James McDonald (59kg) Visit Dabble The Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m) is finally upon us, and a small but select field of nine will duke it out in arguably the best two minutes in sport each year in the country. Can Pride Of Jenni continue or domination of the weight-for-ranks? Can Godolphin’s three-year-old Broadsiding etch his name into the record books? Or can one of the two internationals in Prognosis or Docklands spoil the party? It shapes as one of the more intriguing Cox Plate’s in some time. Japanese raider Prognosis heads the market at a $3 quote with horse racing bookmakers bringing some strong international form lines to Moonee Valley. Despite a mishap at track work during the week, Via Sistina ($4.40) holds the second line of betting, whilst Pride Of Jenni ($4.60) will look to cap a sensational 12 months with victory in Australasia’s weight-for-age championship. Broadsiding ($6) and Mr Brightside ($8) are the only other runners under $10, with upwards of $17 available for the remainder of the field. Keep reading for HorseBetting’s full runner-by-runner preview and $100 betting strategy for the 2024 Cox Plate. 1. Mr Brightside (2) 7yo Gelding | T: Ben, Will & JD Hayes | J: Craig Williams (59kg) He was nosed out by Romantic Warrior in this race 12 months ago, but at the third time of asking, Mr Brightside looks the goods heading into the 2024 Cox Plate. The seven-year-old gelding has not finished further back than second in his four starts this campaign but does need to go to a whole new level to be winning on the weekend. However, in his latest clash with Pride Of Jenni, Mr Brightside had to do all the work when chasing and that just isn’t his best chance of beating the mare. He draws barrier two and looks set to have something to stalk and follow into the home turn. From there, if Mr Brightside is anywhere near his best, he can make up the ground on Jenni and reign supreme whilst holding out the rest of his rivals. 2. Prognosis (5) 7yo Horse | T: Mitsumasa Nakauchida | J: Damian Lane (59kg) It is easy to be against Prognosis, purely at the $3 quote. He is first-up on these shores and has to navigate his way around the unique Moonee Valley circuit against some of the best horse flesh this country has to offer. The seven-year-old arguably should have beaten Romantic Warrior earlier in the year when they clashed in Hong Kong, which stands out like a sore thumb in a race like this. He will be at the rear of the field and will enjoy the pressure that Pride Of Jenni will put into the race a long way out from home. He may just be too good, but he looks like a favourite punters can take on. 3. Kovalica (9) 5yo Gelding | T: Chris Waller | J: Mark Zahra (59kg) Kovalica has not tasted success since winning the 2023 Queensland Derby (2400m) and simply looks up against based on how he has been travelling this campaign. The Chris Waller-trained stayer is apparently using this as a lead-up to the Melbourne Cup, so look for him to be hitting the line strongly as usual. A few of these, however, should have his measure. 4. Royal Patronage (3) 6yo Horse | T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott | J: Michael Dee (59kg) Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott could throw a spanner into the works as natural front-runner New Endeavour looks to try and match Pride Of Jenni’s early speed and try and break his rivals’ hearts. However, the son of Wootton Bassett may find a few of his rivals a touch too strong for him late, especially if he and Jenni are at each others throats from the get go. Recommended! The Better Bettors! Australian-owned and operated bookmaker! Join MarantelliBet 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? 5. Docklands (1) 5yo Horse | T: Harry Eustace | J: Blake Shinn (59kg) The second of the internationals is the Harry Eustace-trained Docklands. The five-year-old was last seen finishing 11.5 lengths off City Of Troy in Group 1 company, arguably one of the best horses going around in Europe, if not the world. He draws perfectly in barrier one and should enjoy the breakneck tempo that Pride Of Jenni and New Endeavour set up. He is first-up off the plane, similar to Prognosis, but if Docklands is anywhere near his best, he is one who can find his way into the back end of the placings but is unlikely to be winning. 6. Pride Of Jenni (7) 7yo Mare | T: Ciaron Maher | J: Declan Bates (57kg) All eyes on the Cox Plate will be on Pride Of Jenni early on. The seven-year-old mare brings pure excitement to her races with the way she looks to break up the field and be a dozen lengths in front and see if her rivals can run her down. Ceolwulf managed to overhaul her last weekend over 1600m in the King Charles III Stakes at Randwick, with the superstar mare seemingly out on her feet with 300m to go after being pressured early on. If she is pressured early by someone like New Endeavour, she will be taking small steps late, but if Jenni and Declan Bates are afforded to do as they please out in front, she will be extremely hard to run down. 7. Via Sistina (4) 7yo Mare | T: Chris Waller | J: James McDonald (57kg) Having dumped James McDonald at track work on Tuesday, Via Sistina will no doubt be rock hard fit after doing several unplanned laps of The Valley in the aftermath. Via Sistina was a determined winner of the Turnbull Stakes (2000m) last time out and got the better of Caulfield Cup runner-up Buckaroo in the concluding stages in doing so. Much like Mr Brightside, she will need something to cart her into the race, but if she is afforded that luxury, Via Sistina will be fighting out the finish. 8. Broadsiding (8) 3yo Colt | T: James Cummings | J: Jamie Kah (49.5kg) Broadsiding is without a doubt the best three-year-old in the country and for the first time, gets to test himself at weight-for-age level. He finished fourth in the Caulfield Guineas, beaten 1.3 lengths on a day where it favoured those up on speed, but everything else he has put forward since the end of the Sydney autumn to now, suggests he is more than capable of winning the Cox Plate. The Too Darn Hot colt goes around with just 49.5kg on his back, and as long as he can handle the breakneck tempo at his first crack longer than the mile, his class will have him in the finish. Broadsiding could potentially etch himself into equine history as a three-year-old winner of the Cox Plate. 9. Evaporate (6) 3yo Gelding | T: Ben, Will & JD Hayes | J: Karis Teetan (49.5kg) Moonee Valley is certainly a horses for courses track, and considering Evaporate has three wins from as many starts at the track, he may just be worth an each-way ticket. The Per Incanto progeny beat home Broadsiding in the Caulfield Guineas and was arguably the better run of the two despite racing against the track bias. With just 49.5kg on his back under Karis Teetan, he will likely be “close” to the lead in terms of position in running. If he is within striking range at the 600m, Evaporate looks to have a bit of an x-factor about him, despite being a $23 chance. 2024 Cox Plate selections & best bets Selections: 1 MR BRIGHTSIDE 8 BROADSIDING 6 PRIDE OF JENNI 7 VIA SISTINA $100 betting strategy $100 Win Mr Brightside (1) @ +700 with Neds Horse racing tips View the full article

Cox Plate headliners seriously considering tilt at Romantic Warrior’s Hong Kong Cup crown.View the full article

What 2024 Spring Champion Stakes Where Royal Randwick Racecourse – Sydney, NSW When Saturday, 26 October, 2024 Prizemoney $2,000,000 Distance 2000m Conditions Set Weights 2023 winner Tom Kitten (1) | T: James Cummings | J: Adam Hyeronimus (56.5kg) Visit Dabble The time-honoured Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) headlines the action at Randwick on Saturday afternoon, with a quality field of 11 set to stake their claims on the $2 million prize. 7 of the 11 runners engaged come through the Group 3 Gloaming Stakes (1800m) where the Anthony Cummings-trained El Castello proved victorious. Can one of his key rivals turn the tables? Or perhaps there’s a differing form-lines punters need to be wary of. 2024 Spring Champion Stakes odds Swiftfalcon was all the rave pre-barrier draw, and barrier 11 hasn’t deterred horse racing bookmakers installing him as the current $3.40 favourite. El Castello is on the second line of betting at $3.70 and is the big firmer in the market post-barrier draw, while Henlein has drifted out to the third line of betting as a $4.80 chance. Harlem Queen ($6.00) is the best backed filly in the race, coming through the Group 1 Flight Stakes (1600m) behind Lady Shenandoah on October 5. Double figures are available for every other runner, including Pleasure Artist ($11.00) and Rag Queen ($16.00) which appear best of the rest. 2024 Spring Champion Stakes speed map There seems to be a lack of tempo in this year’s Spring Champion Stakes, with the Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald-trained Firm Agreement the only natural leader engaged. He’s drawn in barrier 10 and Tom Sherry should have no issues sliding across to find the rail. Henlein will be ridden much closer from barrier one this time around, while El Castello (8) and Harlem Queen (7) should land into mid-field positions with cover. Swiftfalcon hasn’t shown any early speed in the past, so favourite backers can expect Jay Ford to bel dragging back towards the rear of the field from barrier 10. Continue reading for HorseBetting’s top selections and $100 betting strategy for the 2024 Spring Champion Stakes. Recommended! The Better Bettors! Australian-owned and operated bookmaker! Join MarantelliBet 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? Spring Champion Stakes 2024 preview & form The Anthony & Sam Freedman-trained Henlein has been prepped to peak fourth-up into the 2024 Spring Champion Stakes. He was closing well from an unwinnable position in the Gloaming Stakes on October 12, finishing a modest 4.5 lengths away in sixth, but suggests the 2000m would suit the son of Dundeel. He gets serious map favours from barrier one, with Tommy Berry likely to lob onto the leaders’ back throughout, and with this seemingly grand final day, Henlein should prove hard to hold out. Harlem Queen warrants plenty of respect heading into this, with the Group 1 Flight Stakes (1600m) a terrific lead-up into this three-year-old feature. She hit the line best of the rest behind Lady Shenandoah, with the form already being franked courtesy of Group 1 VRC Oaks (2500m) favourite Powers Of Opal destroying maiden company at the mid-weeks since. Harlem Queen beat her home convincingly, and provided she can hold that form stepping to 2000m, punters shouldn’t want to lose on this progressive filly. The price of Rag Queen simply doesn’t make sense. She’s been crying out for a step up in trip and finally gets to the 2000m she’s been craving. She was as good as anything through the line in the Gloaming, and though the likes of El Castello and Swiftfalcon had her measure, she was gallant in defeat. You can mark her much shorter than the $16.00 currently available and is worth keeping safe. There’s no knocking Swiftfalcon outside of the price. He’s a rising star and has the ability to swoop over the top of his rivals despite the likelihood of being the last one turning for home, however, if they go at such a sedate tempo early, he may have his work cut out for him in the concluding stages. Spring Champion Stakes 2024 selections & best bets Selections: 3 HENLEIN 8 HARLEM QUEEN 9 RAG QUEEN 2 SWIFTFALCON $100 betting strategy $50 Win Henlein (#3) @ +380 with Neds $35 Win Harlem Queen (#8) @ +500 with Playup $15 Win Rag Queen (#9) @ +1500 with Picklebet Spring Champion Stakes 2024 final field 1. El Castello (8) T: Anthony Cummings J: Joshua Parr W: 56.5kg F: x111 Age: 3YO Colour: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Castelvecchio Dam: Word Games +260 -181.82 2. Swiftfalcon (11) T: Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes J: Jay Ford W: 56.5kg F: x112 Age: 3YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: Exceedance Dam: Tempting Delight +260 -181.82 3. Henlein (1) T: Anthony & Sam Freedman J: Tommy Berry W: 56.5kg F: x626 Age: 3YO Colour: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Dundeel (NZ) Dam:/span> Time Awaits +360 -142.86 4. Firm Agreement (10) T: Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald J: Tom Sherry W: 56.5kg F: 213 Age: 3YO Colour: Brown Sex: Gelding Sire: Yes Yes Yes Dam: Money Magic +2500 +400 5. Duvana (4) T: Chris Waller J: Joao Moreira W: 56.5kg F: x510 Age: 3YO Colour: Bay Sex: Colt Sire: Dundeel (NZ) Dam: Stay With Me +1400 +250 6. Due Calzini (3) T: Danielle Seib J: Kerrin McEvoy W: 56.5kg F: x839 Age: 3YO Colour: Bay/Brown Sex: Gelding Sire: D’argento Dam: Terminally Pretty +10000 +1600 7. Flying Argento (2) T: Gary Portelli J: Zac Lloyd W: 56.5kg F: x683 Age: 3YO Colour: Bay Sex: Gelding Sire: D’argento Dam: Misstiflying +20000 +2700 8. Harlem Queen (7) T: Nathan Doyle J: Sam Clipperton W: 54.5kg F: x112 Age: 3YO Colour: Bay/Brown Sex: Filly Sire: Brutal (NZ) Dam: Harlem River +500 -105.26 9. Rag Queen (6) T: David Payne J: Chad Schofield W: 54.5kg F: x074 Age: 3YO Colour: Brown Sex: Filly Sire: D’argento Dam: Victory Day +1400 +250 10. Pleasure Artist (5) T: Richard & Will Freedman J: Jason Collett W: 54.5kg F: 412 Age: 3YO Colour: Bay/Brown Sex: Filly Sire: Trapeze Artist Dam: Perfect Pleasure +1000 +180 11. Noises (9) T: Brad Widdup J: Andrew Adkins W: 54.5kg F: 2112 Age: 3YO Colour: Brown Sex: Filly Sire: Microphone Dam: Beetobee +5000 +800 Horse racing tips View the full article

Onesmoothoperator ridden by Craig Williams wins the Geelong Cup. (Pat Scala/Racing Photos) Onesmoothoperator ($12) has taken out the Group 3 Geelong Cup (2400m) on Wednesday afternoon, thanks to a top ride from Craig Williams. The Brian Ellison-trained gelding entered one of the key lead-ups for the Melbourne Cup (3200m) as a $12 outsider with horse racing bookmakers; however, his dominant victory proved he was missed by many in the market and that he is a Melbourne Cup contender. After settling three-wide with cover for the 2400m journey, there would have been plenty of excuses if the son of Dialed In was to miss the placings, but Williams made sure he had a back to follow up until the home turn, where he released the brakes to sprint away from his rivals in the final 400m. WATCH: ALL GEELONG CUP DAY RACE REPLAYS By the time the winner hit the 200m mark, there was no chance of him being caught, and it was Interpretation ($21) and Muramasa ($7) who battled it out for the minor placings, with the Ciaron Maher-trained galloper nailing the Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young-prepared stayer on the line. Unfortunately for favourite punters, their ticket was confetti before the field left the home straight for the first time as Unusual Legacy ($3.40) appeared to suffer an injury and Joao Moreira pulled the market elect out of the race. 2024 Geelong Cup replay – Onesmoothoperator Brian Ellison was on course to speak about the victory post-race. “I’ve been here a few times and had a few bits of bad luck but this horse has been brilliant,” Ellison said. “He came over, he put weight on the trip over. “Mark Brown rides him every day and he’s been doing good times and I just said to Craig, ‘it’s not your normal stayer, he’s got loads of speed’. “He’s always had a good turn of foot, and a great ride. “I kept saying to the owner you have to go to Australia. The owner loves racing, the family loves it, and they all love racing. “And I said, ‘You have to go to Australia for this time of year; it’s fantastic. This horse has got a good chance if we get in the Cup; it’s a good chance.” Craig Williams explained post-race that it was hard to get a gauge on how good the winner was before the run, but he was very happy to get the ride. “With his form, it was really hard for us to get a guide with him, but he showed some really good attributes in some of his races, and even his last time when he was beaten to seven lengths, it was still a great performance,” Williams said. “I was really delighted to be on his back today in today’s race. More delighted after what unfolded over the 2400-metres. “I think he’s well-placed for this year’s race, and that’s all you’re ever asking for. “You’re looking for the best horse in that year, and he ticks good boxes. “The fact that he stays really well. He’s been a synthetic track, a very firm track today. “He’s won on soft, and he runs over long distance, and today he’s like riding on cotton wool, the way he was. “It worked out really well, and it was good to get an understanding of him going forward, which is great. “But most importantly, he got the win, and it’s a great lead-up race, especially for international horses going to the Cup.” Following his win, Onesmoothoperator has shortened from $51 to as short as $9 with some bookmakers for the 2024 Melbourne Cup. Horse racing news
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Mr Brightside (NZ) (Bullbars) will be out to overturn his narrow defeat in last year’s Cox Plate when he heads to The Valley for this year’s edition. Champion jockey Craig Williams did something at ‘Breakfast With The Best’ at Moonee Valley that he rarely does, ride Mr Brightside in a track gallop. Williams has been associated with Mr Brightside since the gelding’s third career start, riding him in 34 of his 38 starts and in 15 of his 17 victories. The pair has combined in six Group 1 wins and will chase a seventh in the Cox Plate (2040m) at Moonee Valley on Saturday. Victory on Saturday will cap a remarkable eight days for Williams who landed the $2 million Kosciuszko and the $20 million Everest at Randwick last Saturday and would love nothing more than to add a third Cox Plate to the trophy cabinet. But he would also love to do it for Lindsay Park trainers Ben, Will and J D Hayes whose father David provided Williams with his first with Fields Of Omagh in 2006. “Every jockey dreams of being associated with a horse, a stable, and that’s something for an individual that doesn’t come around very often,” Williams said of Mr Brightside. “But if you’re lucky enough, and I am, with a few horses, there is no greater joy than seeing them develop and do well. “That’s why I’ve been fortunate to be a part of Mr Brightside’s development and then being on this journey with his huge success, but I guess you don’t get one without the other. “I’ve only ridden him in one piece of work, and that was on Tuesday as I usually only ride him in trials, jump-outs and races. “They (the boys) have got a great handle on him, and I think my role is like a formula one driver. “We get the opportunity to ride these beautiful horses, test them out and tell them how it’s feeling, how it’s going, then they train the horses with that information and sometimes we get results.” Mr Brightside went close to capturing the ultimate prize last year, only to be denied by Hong Kong champion Romantic Warrior. It was a bitter pill for all involved to swallow, but Williams believes, especially after Tuesday’s workout at The Valley, this can be the gelding’s year. “The horse is flying, and he’s even seasoned up again with another 12 months under his belt,” Williams said. “He was quite bullish about himself, and his action was great, his attitude says he wants to get on with it and he might have a special affinity with this track too.” Ben Hayes drew barrier two for Mr Brightside in Tuesday’s draw, the same gate he jumped from in last year’s Cox Plate. Williams said he likes the draw, although some of his big race wins have come from wide draws, including Bella Nipotina in last week’s Everest. “My wife says not to ever complain about barrier draws,” Williams said. “I won from a wide one the other day, I’ve won the Melbourne from out wide and the Caulfield Cup from out wide also. “But I always prefer inside as it feels it makes my job easier, but he’s got to do the running.” Mr Brightside is one of those rare horses who is into his fourth year of racing and continues to develop and race at the highest grade. Williams praised the Lindsay Park team for the way they have prepared and also handle Mr Brightside, racing him through the grades and not getting to the highest level too soon. “He’s been a phenomenal horse for me, the stable and his connections,” Williams said. “He’s been so well managed by the stable, so well developed by the stable, and I’m just grateful for the opportunity and I love being a part of the journey.” View the full article

Well-performed staying mare Par Tee (NZ) (Verdi) collected her second victory in the space of six days at Gore on Wednesday, powering home to win the Kevin Coyle Memorial (2000m). The daughter of Verdi had started a warm favourite in the Rating 75 2200m contest last Friday at Wingatui, where she was far too strong for her rivals, drawing away by three lengths under Ruvanesh Muniandy. Stepping into open company, Leda Beck, who trains the mare out of Winton, opted to remain with an apprentice in Donovan Cooper, decreasing her impost to a featherlight 51kg. Par Tee was in favour with punters starting the $2.10 favourite ahead of Riviera Rebel ($3.40), with the latter leading proceedings throughout while the mare bided her time in midfield. Riviera Rebel shook off the challenge of Midnight Runner turning for home while Par Tee searched for clear running, but when it came, she stormed down the outside and caught the pacemaker just short of the line, the final margin a half-length. “It’s a great achievement from her,” Cooper said. “She’s really cruisy, she’s quite a pony to ride but when you ask her the question, she’s very gusty and she’s not afraid of anything. “I was just waiting for the opportunity to get the run and when it came, I took it. She finished it off very well.” Beck was equally pleased with the effort, indicating the new $50,000 Southern Cup bonus races over February and March are now firmly on her radar. “This is the first time she’s ever backed up, so we were very happy that she could,” she said. “We’re just trying to make the most of the tracks at this stage. “She’s always been consistent and probably has gotten a bit stronger this season, but she’s only a wee thing and doesn’t want to carry too much weight. Today was probably perfect just carrying 51kg. “We may give her another run, but I’d like to give her a wee break and then look at some of the staying races later on. We have some nice bonuses down here.” The six-year-old is now just shy of $100,000 in earnings from her 32 starts, where she has recorded five wins and a further 13 minor placings. She comes from a family well-known to the Becks, having bred her out of their three-win mare Matoaka. “We’ve always had this breed, we had Bernie (granddam) initially who produced Matoaka and a couple of others, including Gargamel who won the Grand National Hurdles,” Beck said. “Matoaka is back in foal to Ghibellines at the moment. “It’s a possibility that we may breed from her (Par Tee) as well, we’ve still got her mother and another couple of fillies, but if she won another race, we’d definitely have to think about it.” View the full article

Promising filly Acapelago (NZ) (Belardo) will face her sternest test to date when she heads north to Ellerslie on Saturday to contest the Gr.2 Windsor Park Stud Soliloquy Stakes (1400m). The three-year-old feature has attracted a strong line-up, including Group One performer Archaic Smile, Group Two performer Love Poem, and last start Group Three winner Alabama Lass, and trainers Simon and Katrina Alexander are keen to see how their filly measures up this weekend. Acapelago heads into the race in good form, having downed subsequent winner Levakia two starts back before placing behind Group One performer To Catch A Thief at Matamata. “I am very pleased with how she is coming to hand,” Katrina Alexander said. “She is still a green filly, but she is doing everything right at home, and I was quite encouraged by the way she chased some other horses home in that special conditions maiden at Matamata. She found herself in a position she hadn’t been in, to let down and chase things home, which I think she learned a lot from that, and she has trained on really well since. “It was a nice win against Levakia, who has obviously won since. It is really good when you can find a form race like that and get a line on the other three-year-old fillies and where they are at. Sometimes it is hard when you don’t get to race against them consistently, but I am quite encouraged.” Acapelago has drawn the ace barrier for Saturday’s contest where she will be ridden by senior hoop Vinnie Colgan. “I am very encouraged by that draw,” Alexander said. “I see there is rain forecast, not that it is going to get bad at Ellerslie, but any moisture won’t upset her. It will be Vinnie’s first ride on her, but she is not a hard horse to ride, she is pretty straight forward in that respect. “I am looking forward to seeing how she does measure up. We know that she has still got a lot of learning to do but she might as well do that against her own age group and then we can make a plan going forward for her.” The daughter of Belardo holds a nomination for the Gr.1 Barneswood Farm New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton next month, and Alexander said Saturday’s result will dictate whether she heads south or stays at home. “We have left her in there,” she said. “I have been to the Riccarton meeting a few times and you can get quite extreme ends of the weather there. We are just keeping it open as an option, it is certainly not set in concrete, and we will discuss that with the owners after Saturday.” Acapelago will be joined on the float trip to Ellerslie by her Group One-winning stablemate La Crique, who will take part in an exhibition at the Auckland track on Saturday. The six-year-old mare was plagued by foot issues last season, which her trainers were finally able to get on top of and head for a delayed hit-and-run Queensland winter mission where she won the $500,000 Magic Millions National Classic (1600m) at Eagle Farm in June. The daughter of Vadamos will likely have her first run of the season at Tauranga next week before following the revamped $500,000 Champion Middle Distance Series over summer. “She is travelling to Ellerslie on Saturday for an exhibition gallop and all going well there she is likely to step out at Tauranga,” Alexander said. “The Open trial system doesn’t work for her with the timing of them at the moment. “She has got a few races mapped out for her here. She will go through that middle distance series and the Auckland Breeders’ (Gr.2, 1400m).” Meanwhile, the Alexanders will head to New Plymouth on Friday with just the one runner – Gioia Magica in the Taranaki-Whanganui Breeders’ Association Maiden 1200. The four-year-old mare ran seventh on debut over 1200m at Taupo last month and her trainers are looking forward to her gaining more raceday experience this week. “She is a Per Incanto mare that has just taken a bit of time and has still got a lot to learn,” Alexander said. “She is not without ability and she looks like a staying filly but she is quite quick over the shorter distances. We are still learning about her as well and any moisture there won’t bother her.” View the full article

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What Ballarat Races Where Ballarat Turf Club – 240 Kennedys Rd, Miners Rest VIC 3352 When Thursday, October 24, 2024 First Race 1:30pm AEDT Visit Dabble Ballarat Turf Club is the destination for an eight-race meeting on Thursday afternoon. Clear skies are the theme of the day, and although the track was rated Soft 6 at the time of acceptances, we should be racing on an improving surface as the day goes on. The rail will stick to its true position, with racing set to get underway at 1:30pm AEDT. Best Bet at Ballarat: Changing Colours Changing Colours put in an eye-catching run when second at Bendigo on October 6 over 1300m, going down by a half head despite giving her rivals a hefty head-start. The step up to 1400m looks ideal for Chris Waller’s runner, and barrier five gives her the chance to settle a touch closer to the speed. If Joao Moreira can have her in clear air on the home turn, Changing Colours looks the goods in this BM64 affair. Best Bet Race 6 – #2 Changing Colours (5) 4yo Mare | T: Chris Waller | J: Joao Moreira (59.5kg) Bet with Bet365 Next Best at Ballarat: Double Market Double Market produced a strong finish to score at Ballarat on October 3 over 1400m. The Castelvecchio filly had to make up multiple lengths on the home turn, but she did so running away from her rivals once asked to fully extend. She draws to gain a perfect run in transit from barrier two under Mick Dee, and barring any bad luck in the straight, Double Market should be keeping her undefeated record intact as she steps up to the mile. Next Best Race 7 – #9 Double Market (2) 3yo Filly | T: Ben, Will & JD Hayes | J: Michael Dee (57kg) Bet with Picklebet Best Value at Ballarat: Both Sides Now The Ciaron Maher-trained Both Sides Now put in an improved performance second-up after a stinker when returning from a spell. The four-year-old mare was left flat-footed when the speed went on over 1300m last time out but stuck on well to suggest the Ballarat 1600m should be right up her alley. John Allen will use barrier two to his advantage, giving Both Sides Now every chance to lead throughout at a nice price with horse racing bookmakers. Best Value Race 1 – #1 Both Sides Now (2) 4yo Mare | T: Ciaron Maher | J: John Allen (58kg) Bet with Neds Ballarat quaddie tips – 24/10/24 Ballarat quadrella selections Thursday, October 24, 2024 2-6-7-8 1-2 5-9 2-10-11-13 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Race 8 POSITIVE SIGNS + PRINT 65 1200m HERE I AM (S Weatherley) – Co-trainer Mr. M Pitman reported to Stewards, he was satisfied with the post-race condition of HERE I AM and will continue on with the gelding’s current preparation. The post Otago Racing Club @ Wingatui Racecourse, Dunedin, Friday 18 October 24 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Race 6 STAPHANOS CLASSIC 1950m CORK (D Cooper) – Trainer Ms. P Gerard advised Stewards, she was satisfied with the post-race condition of the mare, however, CORK has now been sent for a spell. The post Racing Rotorua @ Arawa Park, Sunday 13 October 24 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Geelong Cup Day 2024. (Pat Scala/Racing Photos) Geelong Cup Day 2024 is arguably one of the best country racedays each year and a nine-race meeting set down for decision at Geelong Racecourse on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. The Group 3 Geelong Cup (2400m) is set to jump at 4:10pm AEDT. With plenty of key form races heading into the Melbourne Cup Carnival, catch up on all the race replays, results and dividends provided by top horse racing bookmakers here. Race 1 – BM70 Handicap (2400 METRES) Race Replay & Results Place No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Fixed Odds (W) Fixed Odds (P) 1st 13 Way Up High Dan O’Sullivan Jaylah Kennedy $17.00 $4.40 2nd 11 Bellakai Symon Wilde Luke Currie $2.80 3rd 6 Daiquiri Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young Michael Dee $4.60 4th 5 Muktamil Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young Jamie Mott Exotic Bet Type Results Dividend Quinella 13-11 $97.50 Exacta 13-11 $213.30 Duet 13-11 $23.80 Duet 13-6 $57.20 Duet 11-6 $34.80 Trifecta 13-11-6 $3,803.40 First Four 13-11-6-5 $22,226.20 Place Your Bets on Upcoming Races With Neds! Race 2 – BM64 Handicap (1100 METRES) Race Replay & Results Place No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Fixed Odds (W) Fixed Odds (P) 1st 10 Romani Ite Domum Ben, Will & JD Hayes Blake Shinn $3.40 $1.50 2nd 4 Tiffany Valentine Phillip Stokes Tom Prebble $4.20 3rd 7 Under And Over Tony & Calvin McEvoy Damian Lane $2.00 4th 13 Grinzinger Lover Danny O’Brien Fred Kersley Exotic Bet Type Results Dividend Quinella 10-4 $30.00 Exacta 10-4 $49.30 Duet 10-4 $6.80 Duet 10-7 $3.80 Duet 4-7 $18.80 Trifecta 10-4-7 $230.60 First Four 10-4-7-13 $1,991.10 Running Double (1,2) 13-10 $105.50 Place Your Bets on Upcoming Races With PlayUp! Horse racing news View the full article

El Castello winning the Group 3 Gloaming Stakes. Photo: bradleyphotos.com.au The three-year-olds take centre stage at Randwick on Saturday afternoon, with the Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) attracting a quality field of 11 horses set to fight it out for the $2 million prize. Most of the runners engaged come through the Group 3 Gloaming Stakes (1800m) at Rosehill on October 12, where the Anthony Cummings-trained El Castillo proved victorious. Joshua Parr maintains the ride aboard the son of Castelvecchio after steering him to victory in the Gloaming and will disengage from barrier 8. The pair of Henlein and Swiftfalcon were both heavily backed in the Gloaming, and punters can expect something similar, with the pair drawing barrier one and 11 respectively. Rag Queen is one of four fillies engaged in this event and should relish the step up to 2000m, while the Nathan Doyle-trained Harlem Queen brings some differing form finishing runner-up in the Group 1 Flight Stakes (1600m) behind Lady Shenandoah. Firm Agreement and Duvana are two more runners looking to turn the tables from the Gloaming, while the Richard & Will Freedman-trained Pleasure Artist brings some x-factor into this after running into Swiftfalcon in the Dulcify Stakes on October 5. The 2024 Spring Champion Stakes is the first leg of the quaddie at Randwick on Saturday afternoon and is scheduled to get underway at 4pm AEDT. Horse racing news
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Multiple grade 1-winning California-bred sprinter The Chosen Vron will not participate in the $2 million Breeders' Cup Sprint (G1) at Del Mar Nov. 2.View the full article

LEXINGTON, KY – The Fasig-Tipton October Yearlings Sale reached its halfway mark with a vibrant day of trade topped by a $550,000 son of Curlin who was one of the last horses through the ring Tuesday. “It was tremendous second session of the 2024 Kentucky October Yearling sale,” said Fasig-Tipton President Boyd Browning, Jr. “There was really spirited bidding from the very beginning of the sale to the very end of the sale. The level and consistency of the bidding throughout the day was truly encouraging.” Through two sessions of the four-day auction, 544 yearlings have grossed $28,753,000 for an average of $52,855 and a median of $20,000. With just 137 yearlings failing to meet their reserves, the buy-back rate stands at 20.1%. Through two sessions of the 2023 auction, 520 yearlings had grossed $24,157,300 for an average of $46,456 and a median of $22,000. The four-day average of the 2023 sale was $48,045 and the median was $24,000. “It was statistically a magnificent day, with a noticeable increase in the average over the overall sale average last year,” Browning said. “We are tracking really well. Obviously, we are just halfway through, with two more days to go, but we are delighted with the look and the feel and the energy that is on the sales grounds and very pleased halfway through the sale.” Bloodstock agent Alistair Roden, bidding on behalf of Mark Breen, purchased the auction's top offering so far, going to $550,000 to acquire a son of Curlin from the Taylor Made Sales Agency consignment. The colt was one of 10 to sell for $300,000 or more on the day and brought the two-day total to reach that mark to 15. It was 10 at the same point a year ago. Through two days, 34 yearlings have sold for $200,000 or more, up from 24 at the halfway mark of the 2023 auction. “More encouraging was the level and the consistency of bidding throughout the day.”@btbrowning recaps the second session of the Kentucky October Yearlings sale. #FasigKY pic.twitter.com/dHXlTx7H15 — Fasig-Tipton (@FasigTiptonCo) October 22, 2024 The October results continued to show a deep and diverse buying bench with nine of Tuesday's top 10 offerings purchased by unique interests. “The October sale truly has something for everyone,” Browning said. “That's reflected in the buyer group that is on the sale grounds. We could have a United Nations conference in the back walking ring. It's great for our industry to be an exporter of this many horses, as well as to have a healthy racing game here in the United States.” The October sale continues through Thursday with sessions beginning daily at 10 a.m. Curlin Colt a Late Topper for Roden After watching Carlos Manresa sign the ticket at $350,000 on a colt by Tapit, Alistair Roden said ruefully, “That could have been me.” The bloodstock agent eventually got his chance, acquiring a colt by Curlin (hip 801) for a session-topping $550,000 late in the day Tuesday at Fasig-Tipton. Hip 801 c. CURLIN o/o Sass and Class sells for $550,000 at Kentucky October Yearlings! Congrats to the connections: B: Alistair Roden, agent for Mark Breen C: @TaylorMadeSales, agt for Stonestreet Bred & Raised Br: @StonestreetFarm (KY) pic.twitter.com/ykSHeniNOJ — Fasig-Tipton (@FasigTiptonCo) October 22, 2024 “This was for an old client and friend Mark Breen, who lives in Phoenix,” Roden said of the purchase. “He's been in the horse business for a while.” Hip 801 is out of Sass and Class (Harlan's Holiday) and is a half-brother to multiple graded winner Royal Charlotte (Cairo Prince). He was consigned by Taylor Made Agency on behalf of his breeder, Stonestreet Thoroughbred Holdings. “He always dreams of having a nice 3-year-old,” Roden said of Breen. “Which everybody does in this game. He loved this horse's pedigree. I loved his physical.” Of the colt's final price, Roden said, “I was already out. And then the phone rang. He rang and he told me to keep going. But I figured it would be around that price. He's a lovely horse. He's by Curlin. He has a stallion's pedigree and, if he's a Grade I winner, he's a $30-million horse.” Roden added, “Let's hope the horse gods shine on him and we have some luck.” Breen campaigned Endorsed (Medaglia d'Oro), winner of last year's GII Gulfstream Park Mile, as well as 2014 GIII Iowa Derby winner Jessica's Star (Magna Graduate). Woodford, Walden Back for More John Skyes's Woodford Thoroughbreds, which has already enjoyed graded stakes success with young trainer Will Walden this year, will be adding another yearling to the stable after bloodstock agent Ryder Finney secured a colt by Vekoma (hip 510) for $360,000 during Tuesday's second session of the Fasig-Tipton October sale. Hip 510 c. VEKOMA o/o Monarchia sells for $360,000 at Kentucky October Yearlings! Congrats to the connections: B: Ryder Finney, agt for Woodford Thoroughbreds C: @MachmerHallSls, agt for HREH Raised at Springhill Equine Br: Haymarket Farm (KY)#FasigKY @spendthriftfarm pic.twitter.com/v5fEAQWlXM — Fasig-Tipton (@FasigTiptonCo) October 22, 2024 “Will Walden has been training a couple for him that he bought over at Tattersalls and has had some success with the first couple of goes in the States and Mr. Sykes is ready for some more,” Finney said after signing the ticket on the yearling. Consigned by Machmer Hall on behalf of his breeder, Chip Montgomery's Haymarket Farm, the bay is out of the unraced Monarchia (Arch). He is a half-brother to stakes winner Unifying (Union Rags). “He is super athletic,” Finney said of the colt's appeal. “I thought everything about him was so athletic. I loved the way he moved. I loved the way he's made. Will and I talked about it when we saw him the first time. He kind of reminded us of Life Is Good physically. Just super well made. Awesome neck side, great shoulder, big hip. He has everything that we want physically. And Vekoma has obviously been a very hot freshman stallion. Will and I have been high on Vekoma for a while. Everything fit together.” Woodford Thoroughbreds and Walden were in the winner's circle earlier this year with Pipsy (Ire) (Kodiac {GB}), who won the GIII Soaring Softly Stakes in May. They teamed up to win an Oct. 17 Keeneland allowance with Aussie Girl (Ire) (Starspangledbanner {Aus}). Both mares were purchased last December at Tattersalls. Montgomery purchased Monarchia, in foal to Omaha Beach, for $50,000 at the 2022 Keeneland January sale. The mare's Omaha Beach filly sold for $67,000 at last year's October sale. Tuesday's result marked the resumption of the successful partnership of Haymarket Farm and Machmer Hall. “Chip Montgomery was a good friend of mine for a long time,” Machmer Hall's Carrie Brogden said. “We started out as friends 25 years ago. And we just recently got back together. This is a culmination of 25 years of friendship. We had a lot of successes before–a lot–and now we are looking to have a lot of successes in the future again.” Brogden also gave credit to JR Sebastian of Springhill Equine, who prepped the yearling. “I have to give so much credit to JR,” Brogden said. “This horse, the last 30 days, has just blossomed into this beautiful animal. He was always targeted for this sale. It's so thrilling for me to not only have the success for JR–it's thrilling for their staff–and for me and my friendship with Chip and his whole family.” D J Stable Gets More of the Jaywalk Family The Green family's D J Stable captured the 2018 GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies with Jaywalk (Cross Traffic), so it was a no-brainer to bid on a yearling out of a half-sister to that champion, bloodstock agent Kim Valerio said after signing the ticket at $350,000 to secure the filly by Tapit (hip 492) from the Gainesway consignment Tuesday at Fasig-Tipton. Hip 492 f. TAPIT o/o Miss Jessica sells for $350,000 at Kentucky October Yearlings! Congrats to the connections: B: @DJ_Stable /Kim Valerio, agt C: @Gainesway, agt Br: Al Shira'aa Racing & Gainesway Thoroughbreds (KY)#FasigKY @JonGreen2022 pic.twitter.com/K4bn93kc5g — Fasig-Tipton (@FasigTiptonCo) October 22, 2024 “We are looking for fillies to put in the breeding program,” Valerio, who did her bidding upstairs while on the phone with Len Green, said. “And this family just keeps coming on.” The bay filly is out of Miss Jessica J (Empire Maker), who is a half-sister to, not only Jaywalk, but also to multiple stakes winner Danzatrice (Dunkirk), who is the dam of GI Toyota Blue Grass Stakes winner Tapit Trice (Tapit). Asked if she sees similarities between the yearling and Jaywalk, Valerio said, “No, not really. She has more of the bottom side, the Empire Maker, and she is inbred to be bigger and stretchier. I would say she looks more like Untapable. She is big and narrow.” Bidding on the filly, who was bred by Al Shira'aa Racing and Gainesway Thoroughbreds, started out slowly, but built steadily. “Len was on the phone and I had to look down and look back–obviously, they don't mind staying until 9 p.m.,” Valerio said with a laugh. “And then we were all panicking that we were on the wrong horse.” Of the final price, Valerio said, “I was hoping we would get her for $250,000 or $275,000. At Keeneland–if she was ready then–she would have brought that and more.” Valerio is working the 1600-head sale on her own, but said she felt it was important to go through as many horses as possible. “There are a lot of really nice horses here,” she said. “I let my help go on vacation, so I am hustling. I forgot how many horses are here. Maybe I should stop doing all-shows at some point, but I like to see them all.” Valerio, who is a proponent of limiting stallion book sizes to some degree, said it was important to her to look at yearlings by a wide variety of sires. “I am a big proponent for coming to some kind of agreement with the stallion farms,” she said. “I am not saying 140. I am not even saying 180, but to start limiting the books some. So I feel like, if I am going to try to preach to people, then I owe it to the other people to at least look at not all the best stallions. I've looked at all of Chuck Fipke's Danish Dynaformers. I looked at all of his Perfect Timbers. I feel it's important for me, as an agent, to not discount everything when I want the business to move forward in a better direction.” Asked if she has been impressed by any of those sires who might be flying under the radar, Valerio said, “I don't know if he's under the radar, but I've bought a Raging Bull (Fr). I do like those. Cairo Prince isn't under the radar, but he's underlooked.” More Constitution for Twin Creeks Twin Creeks Farm, which campaigned Constitution, acquired a filly by the sire to add to its Red White and Blue Racing syndicate when farm manager Ryan Bardin bid $350,000 for hip 620 from the Woods Edge Farm consignment Tuesday at the October sale. Hip 620 f. CONSTITUTION o/o Panthera Onca sells for $350,000 at Kentucky October Yearlings! Congrats to the connections: B: Red White and Blue C: Woods Edge Farm, agt Br: Narola LLC (KY)#FasigKY @WinStarFarm pic.twitter.com/0DiuDo0Zag — Fasig-Tipton (@FasigTiptonCo) October 22, 2024 “She is an outstanding physical,” Bardin said of the yearling. “She is a very beautiful filly. I think she's the best I saw at this sale. And she is by Constitution. So we get to support the home team.” Bred by Narola, the yearling is out of Panthera Onca (Super Saver), a daughter of graded winner Molto Vita (Carson City). Red White and Blue Racing campaigns Neat, also by Constitution, who won this year's GII National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame Stakes, as well as this year's GII Beaumont Stakes winner Denim and Pearls (Into Mischief). Of immediate plans for the syndicate's newest acquisition, Bardin said, “She will ship over to WinStar to get broke. [Twin Creek's] Randy Gullatt will determine who suits her as a trainer.” Broman Continues to Dream of Derby Longtime owner and breeder Chester Broman, whose wife Mary passed away last week at 88, continues to pursue the couple's shared dream of reaching the GI Kentucky Derby, with advisors Becky Thomas and Carlos Manresa acquiring a pair of yearlings on his behalf during Tuesday's second session of the October auction. Broman purchased a colt by Tapit (hip 757) from the Gainesway consignment for $350,000 and paid $300,000 for a colt by Nyquist (hip 729) from Blandford Stud. Hip 757 c. TAPIT o/o River Maid sells for $350,000 at Kentucky October Yearlings! Congrats to the connections: B: Becky Thomas, agt for Chester Broman C: @Gainesway, agt Br: Mark Stansell & Tapit Syndicate (KY)#FasigKY pic.twitter.com/C2JWyxBdz5 — Fasig-Tipton (@FasigTiptonCo) October 22, 2024 “It has been a dream of his–both his and his wife–to go to the Derby,” Manresa said. “That is something they shared together and that he wants to continue in her legacy. So that is the plan. We are going to continue to buy horses and try to make that dream come true for him.” Bred by Mark Stansell and Tapit Syndicate, hip 757 is out of graded stakes winner River Maid (Where's the Ring) and is a half-brother to Grade I-placed Cocktail Moments (Uncle Mo). “He has a beautiful body,” Manresa said of the colt. “He could have been placed in any sale anywhere in the country and I think he would have been very popular. Gainesway did a great job with him. We all loved him and we are happy to have him.” Hip 729 is out of Ready Ready Ready (More Than Ready), whose 2-year-old daughter Abientot (Not This Time) won the GIII Matron Stakes earlier this month. “He had a big update, a lot of pedigree, and great physical, especially for a Classic distance,” Manresa said of the yearling, who was bred by Killora Stud. Thomas purchased a pair of yearlings on behalf of Broman at the Keeneland September sale last month, going to $1.15 million for a colt by Gun Runner (hip 73) and $325,000 for a son of Constitution (hip 836). “I think what helps him through the whole process is his love for horses and the fact that he and Mary shared that together,” Manresa said of Broman. The post ‘Something for Everyone:’ Spirited Bidding Punctuates Day Two of Fasig-Tipton October Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Observations on the European Racing Scene turns the spotlight on the best European races of the day, highlighting well-pedigreed horses early in their careers, horses of note returning to action and young runners that achieved notable results in the sales ring. Wednesday's Observations features a Kingman half-sibling to Mostahdaf (GB). 2.20 Newmarket, Novice, £8,500, 2yo, c/g, 7fT MUDBIR (GB) (Kingman {GB}) is one of the key players on an intriguing card made up mainly of 2-year-old contests, being Shadwell's half-brother to the G1 Prince of Wales's Stakes hero Mostahdaf (Ire) (Frankel {GB}) and the G1 Falmouth Stakes and G1 Sun Chariot Stakes winner Nazeef (GB) (Invincible Spirit {Ire}). Like that talented duo, John and Thady Gosden have charge of the homebred son of Handassa (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}) whose peers include Juddmonte's Pinhole (GB) (Frankel {GB}), a Sir Michael Stoute-trained full-brother to the G1 Fillies' Mile winner Quadrilateral (GB). 2.55 Newmarket, Mdn, £12,000, 2yo, 10fT THE CURSOR (GB) (Frankel {GB}) is introduced by Andrew Balding over an extreme trip for a juvenile, which may give a clue as to the stamina expectations of this son of the G1 Prix de l'Opera heroine Villa Marina (GB) (Le Havre {Ire}). Representing King Power Racing, the 400,000gns Tattersalls October Book 1 graduate meets Godolphin's 1million gns Tattersalls October Book 1 purchase Arabian Poet (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}), the Charlie Appleby-trained son of Shastye (Ire) (Danehill) who was seventh on debut on the July Course here in August. The post Kingman Half To Mostahdaf And Nazeef Debuts At Newmarket appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Pride Of Jenni will contest Saturday’s Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m) at The Valley. Photo: Bradleyphotos.com.au Pride Of Jenni out ran all of her rivals in her last attempt over 2000m, and she will be out to do that on the biggest stage in Saturday’s $5 million Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m) at The Valley. Prior to last season, Pride Of Jenni had placed at Group One and Group Two level, but she catapulted herself into stardom with stunning front-running victories in the Group 1 Empire Rose Stakes (1600m), Group 1 Champions Stakes (1600m) and the All Star Mile (1600m). Her status as the 2023/24 Australian Racehorse of the Year was cemented with a performance for the ages in the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) at Randwick in April. Returning as a seven-year-old, the Pride Of Dubai mare was defeated by her arch-rival Mr Brightside in the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) before she turned the tables on him in the Group 2 Feehan Stakes (1600m). While Mr Brightside made his final preparations elsewhere, Pride Of Jenni primed for the Cox Plate in last Saturday’s Group 1 King Charles III Stakes (1600m), where she led to the dying moments before the Kiwi-bred Ceolwulf came storming down the outside to deny the mare a fourth Group One. Ciaron Maher, who won both the The Everest (1200m) and Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) over the weekend, has been pleased with the mare’s progress since Saturday’s contest. “She’s come through it well, I followed her down to the swabbing box post her run on Saturday to see how she was, and she’s pulled up pretty well,” Maher told Racing.com. “She went down to Bong Bong and was in the spa and paddock over the last couple of days, there’s nothing I’ve seen that (would suggest) she wouldn’t back up. “Hyperbaric chambers are well used in people, it’s oxygen infused. She hadn’t been in it before and she was a little bit nervous when she got in, but she settled down over the next few days. It aids everything really, any soft tissue, lung, just the whole recovery process. “She comes back (to Melbourne) on Wednesday night and just ticks over. It’s all about recovery, so you’re keeping them happy and hopefully the trip back is smooth, she can take her place on Saturday. “It’s going to be a tough enough ask, but if any horse can do it, I think she can.” There was an edge of controversy after the King Charles in reference to fellow pacemaker Major Beel, but, Maher emphasised that her usual pattern would not change in the feature. “I think she’ll probably do her normal tactics, Saturday had interesting tactics, but I don’t think it made a hell of a lot of difference to the end result. The winner was very, very good, and I thought she was super,” he said. “Dec (Bates, jockey) said that this whole prep, she’s been wanting the 2000m. Hopefully she can travel back safe and sound and take her place, because you’d think The Valley is made for her. “It’s the best race in The Valley and it’s a pressure cooker.” Horse racing news
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Sandy Cunningham has eyes on a major upcoming domestic prize rather than another trip to Victoria with her proven stayer Noble Knight (NZ) (Ghibellines). The Riccarton trainer’s focus is on next month’s Gr.3 Martin Collins New Zealand Cup (3200m) and her in-form seven-year-old will have his final lead-up on his home track this Saturday. Noble Knight will step out in the NZB Airfreight Road To Jericho (3000m), but there’s no chance a victory would convince part-owner Cunningham to set sail for The Jericho Cup (4600m) at Warrnambool on December 1. “The New Zealand Cup is the aim, so we just need to make sure he settles well over the 3000m,” she said. Noble Knight’s staying ability and versatility will stand him in good stead on Saturday and take any worries about the underfoot conditions out of the equation. “I’m not sure what the weather will do, but then that doesn’t bother me,” Cunningham said. “He seems to run on all tracks now, I do think he is a little better on top of the ground but he can still cope with the wet as well.” Safely through this weekend, Noble Knight will likely bypass the Listed Nautical Insurance Metropolitan Trophy (2600m) and go straight into the Cup on November 16. “I mucked up when I ran him over 2100m (in the Gr.3 Trentham Stakes) the week before the last Wellington Cup (Gr.3, 3200m) and they went really hard and fast,” Cunningham said. “He lost his cool in the Cup and over-raced and did everything wrong, so I don’t want that happening again.” Noble Knight will head into Saturday’s contest off the back of a solid effort a fortnight ago to finish runner-up over 2200m at Ashburton in his first appearance since his four-start winter Victorian venture. The son of Ghibellines’ campaign started encouragingly with a runner-up finish at The Valley before he stepped up in grade to finish eighth in the Listed Pakenham Cup (2500m). The winner Ashrun, who had finished fourth in last year’s Gr.1 Melbourne Cup (3200m), subsequently ran third in the Gr.1 Tancred Stakes (2400m). “He ran quite well in the Pakenham Cup and as it turned out the run he had before actually took just a little bit too much out of him,” Cunningham said. “They race a lot harder over there and I probably needed another week with him before the Cup. I thought he held up pretty well in it, all things considered.” Noble Knight was then plagued by foot issues and required a lengthy break before a pair of midfield finishes at Caulfield to end his time in Australia. “He had quite a few foot abscesses and then he got a virus as well,” Cunnigham said. “Things just went a bit pear shaped, but I wasn’t too unhappy and at least we got some prizemoney.” View the full article