Wandering Eyes

About the only thing missing from Saturday's $1-million GI Stephen Foster Stakes is a Horse of the Year–for good measure, she runs elsewhere on Saturday's blockbuster program on the final weekend of racing at Churchill Downs–but the nine-furlong event is rich in quality and brings together the winners of such prestigious events such as the GI Breeders' Cup Classic, the GI Kentucky Derby, and the G1 Dubai World Cup. A 'bananas' Foster, indeed. The horses that will line up for the 'Win and You're In' qualifier for this year's Classic have amassed earnings of better than $26 million, the most in the history of the Foster and even more noteworthy that just a field of seven heads to the post. Curlin (2007-2008) and Fort Larned (2012-2013) completed the Classic/Foster double and 'TDN Rising Star' Sierra Leone–a son of 2017 Foster/Classic hero Gun Runner–looks to join that select group on Saturday. Having earned a field-best 112 Beyer when getting the set-up of all set-ups at Del Mar last November, the dark bay was perhaps a bit ring-rusty when staying on into third behind all-the-way winner Touchuponastar (Star Guitar) in the GII New Orleans Classic in his lone appearance this season over three months ago. He wants a truly run race and there doesn't appear to be a great deal of pace signed on for the 5-2 morning-line favorite. Mystik Dan (Goldencents) can make history as he would become the first Kentucky Derby winner to follow up with a victory in the Foster. Soundly defeated in the GI Malibu Stakes and in the GI Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes, the homebred bay bounced back to something approaching his best when just failing to catch Saudi Crown (Always Dreaming) in the May 3 Lake Ouachita Stakes at Oaklawn Park. He was the recipient of a golden trip in the May 31 GIII Blame Stakes and took full advantage, coming away to score by 1 1/4 lengths under his regular mate Brian Hernandez, Jr., who feels the colt is holding his form. “He worked last Saturday, in company with [nine-furlong track-record setter] Gould's Gold (Goldencents), and it was phenomenal,” Hernandez, Jr. said. “He did everything just like we wanted him to and his gallop out was very impressive. He looks like he's going into this race well and on the right track. The nice thing about him right now is his mind is really good.” Hit Show (Candy Ride {Arg}) caused a massive surprise in upsetting the likes of Forever Young (Jpn) (Real Steel {Jpn}) in this year's World Cup back on Apr. 5 and looks to follow in the hoofprints of Street Cry (Ire) in 2002 and Curlin in 2008 to tack on a win in the Foster. Impressive winner of the GIII Louisiana Stakes on his 5-year-old debut in January, the gray was a distant third to 'Rising Star' Locked (Gun Runner) in the GI Santa Anita Handicap, but validated the decision by Wathnan Racing and Brad Cox to make the trip to the desert, coming from a seemingly unlikely position to run down Mixto (Good Magic), with Forever Young third. 'TDN Rising Stars' First Mission (Street Sense) and Mindframe (Constitution) add considerable depth to the Foster. Fourth as the odds-on pop in last year's renewal, First Mission has looked good in his two starts this term, just missing in the GIII Razorback Handicap at Oaklawn Feb. 23 before running out a two-length winner of the GII Oaklawn Handicap, earning a career-best 109 Beyer. Luis Saez takes over for Flavien Prat, who sticks with Sierra Leone. After finishing runner-up in last year's GI Belmont Stakes and GI Haskell Stakes, Mindframe scaled the heights when proving best in a four-way photo in the GI Churchill Downs Stakes May 3. He is the possible speed from gate two. All Skippylongstocking (Exaggerator) has done is win 11 of his 32 starts for earnings of $3.6 million. And still, he looks like a bit of an outsider here, though he enters off a 3/4-length victory in the GII Hollywood Gold Cup May 26. Ashcroft (Munnings) completes the field and it would be a major shock if his starting price is less than 100-1. 'Anna' On Recovery Mission In Fleur de Lis Reigning Horse of the Year and 'TDN Rising Star' Thorpedo Anna (Fast Anna) gets Saturday's graded action off on a high note as the prohibitive favorite in a field of five in the GII Fasig-Tipton Fleur de Lis Stakes, with an all-expenses-paid trip to the GI Breeders' Cup Distaff at stake. With a 2 1/2-length defeat of Raging Sea (Curlin) in that event last fall, the $40,000 Fasig-Tipton October yearling sewed up divisional and HOTY honors and, in all fairness, she was more workmanlike than she was brilliant in taking out the GII Azeri Stakes and GI Apple Blossom Handicap in her first two starts at four. Expected to extend her winning streak to five in the GI Fasig-Tipton La Troienne Stakes May 2, she was knocked around going into the first turn and never quite looked herself, finishing last of seven. But she's worked well since and retains the full confidence of her trainer. “It looks like it took the breath out of her,” said Ken McPeek. “That's really all we could figure out that happened. Talking to [jockey] Brian Hernandez, Jr., he said she got hit pretty good. Any way you look at it, she didn't run well. The best-laid plans didn't work out. “In the meantime, we've just sort of taken our time and it's been nearly two months since her last run and we're really optimistic she can get back to her top form.” Calumet Farm's Gin Gin (Hightail) proved that her 38-1 upset of the GIII Baird Doubledogdare Stakes was no fluke, finishing a good second to Royal Spa (Violence) in the GIII Shawnee Stakes on Foster Preview Day May 31, while La Troienne runner-up Taxed (Collected) will nevertheless need to find a handful of lengths to be a factor here. In the day's other graded events beneath the Twin Spires, Booth (Mitole) looks to make it five straight–four in graded company–but faces a stiff challenge in the GIII Kelly's Landing Stakes in the form of the intriguing California raider Dr Venkman (Ghostzapper) from the barn of Mark Glatt. Brillant Berti (Noble Mission {GB}) looms the one to beat in the GII Wise Dan Stakes having finished runner-up to the Cinderella kid Mercante (Gun Runner) after uncustomarily making the running in the GIII Arlington Stakes four weeks back. Fort Washington (War Front) ships in for Shug McGaughey off a one-length success in the GIII Dinner Party Stakes over rain-affected Pimlico turf May 17, and Mi Hermano Ramon (Creative Cause) ships in from the Golden State off a near-miss second in the GI Shoemaker Mile Stakes May 26. 'Patches' Resurfaces In the Highlander Woodbine plays host to five graded events Saturday afternoon that comprise the Canada Day Racing Festival, and that country's reigning Horse of the Year is also on display. Patches O'Houlihan (Reload) makes his second start of the season in the GII Highlander Stakes and looks to stay unbeaten in three tries on the grass, including the GII Nearctic Stakes over this course and six-furlong distance last October. Subsequently beaten by GI Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint hero Nobals (Noble Mission {GB}) in the GII Kennedy Road Stakes back on the Tapeta in November, the homebred resumed with a four-length score in the May 4 Thorncliffe Stakes. He makes his first start since being scratched from the GIII Jacques Cartier Stakes on May 31. Caitlinhergrtness (Omaha Beach), who beat the boys in the 2024 King's Plate, returns to the turf for the card-closing GII Nassau Stakes. An allowance winner over 7 1/2 furlongs last July, she was third to She Feels Pretty (Karakontie {Jpn}) in the GI QE II Challenge Cup in October and exits a five-length tally in the May 31 GIII Belle Mahone Stakes on the synth. Sophomore colts and fillies get their chance in the GIII Marine Stakes and GIII Selene Stakes, respectively, and a well-matched field of eight heads to the post for the GIII Dominion Day Stakes. The post Foster Anchors A Super Saturday At Churchill Downs appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

When the debuting Chopsticks (Essential Quality–Miss Southern Miss, by More Than Ready) closed into a hot pace at Churchill Downs on Friday and got her picture taken, the win was the first for her freshman sire. Sent off as a 2-1 shot here, the 2-year-old watched as a pair of speedballers went to the front and burned up the backstretch. Not willing to quit, Chopsticks began to engage around the far turn and she rolled down the lane to score by three lengths over a fading Sina (Gun Runner). The final running time was 1:10.21. The filly, who was purchased by Andrew Cary, is part of a 119 foals of racing age for the Darley-based stallion. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0. Sales History: $300,000 '24 KEESEP. O-Selective LLC; B-Machmer Hall (KY); T-Brad H. Cox. Chopsticks takes advantage of the pace and is a debut winner for freshman sire Essential Quality in R3 at @churchilldowns! @flothejock was up for trainer @bradcoxracing. TwinSpiresReplay pic.twitter.com/CDtkoSC4oC — TwinSpires Racing (@TwinSpires) June 27, 2025 The post Freshman Sire Essential Quality Gets His First Winner At Churchill appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

1st-CD, $120K, Msw, 2yo, 5f, 12:45 p.m. ET. The news broke this past week that Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas would be stepping down as the head of his stable because of health reasons and assistant Bas Nicholl would be taking over for the man known to many as 'Coach.' In Saturday's opener on the card, TRACK LEGEND (Charlatan) will be unveiled for owner Live the Legacy and Nicholl. Out of Canadian champion female sprinter Moonlit Promise (Malibu Moon), the dark bay went for $550,000 at last year's Keeneland September Sale. Track Legend's third dam–who produced MGISW Court Vision (Gulch)–is a full-sister to GI Preakness Stakes hero Summer Squall (Storm Bird) and a half-sister to Horse of the Year A.P. Indy (Seattle Slew). TJCIS PPS 6th-CD, $120K, Msw, 3yo/up, f&m, 6 1/2f, 3:19 p.m. ET. Pretty in a Dress (Constitution), trained by Brendan Walsh, is out of Whatdreamsrmadeof (Graeme Hall), who was taken home by Jane Lyon for $1.65-million at the Fasig-Tipton Fall Mixed Sale in 2016. This dam's most well-known progeny is MGISW Curalina (Curlin). Also set for her first start is Steve Asmussen trainee Crimsonite (Tapit). The Winchell homebred's dam Bleeding Heart (Broken Vow) is a full-sister to GII Twinspires.com Fair Grounds Oaks heroine Chocolate Martini. Last but not least, Repercussion (Bernardini) debuts for owner-breeder Godolphin. Trained by Eoin Harty, the bay's dam Orchestrate (Tiznow) is a full-sister to champion 2-year-old filly Folklore and is a half-sister to MSP Delightful Quality (Elusive Quality), who is responsible for current sire Essential Quality (Tapit). TJCIS PPS The post Saturday’s Insights: Charlatan Colt Running For A ‘Track Legend’ On Debut at Churchill appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The winner of last year's GI Jockey Club Gold Cup, Highland Falls (Curlin–Round Pond, by Awesome Again) emerged from time off a winner against optional claimers at Aqueduct on Friday. Ready to go out of the blocks, the 5-year-old bided his time just off the speed up the backstretch. Highland Falls pounced around the far turn and entering the lane the homebred took control. Sprinting away, the Brad Cox trainee won by several lengths over Full Screen (Big Screen). The final running time was 1:34.40. Lifetime Record: 11-6-2-1. O/B-Godolphin (KY); T-Brad H. Cox. Highland Falls is an easy winner in R2 at BAQ! @bradcoxracing trains and Flavien Prat had the mount. pic.twitter.com/gA1BNqNGyp — TwinSpires Racing (@TwinSpires) June 27, 2025 The post Highland Falls Comes Off The Bench To Win Optional Claimer At Big A appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF)'s 2025 Saratoga Summer Event Series will feature three evenings of food, community, and philanthropy. The events directly support TRF's mission of providing dignified lifetime care for retired Thoroughbreds and offering life-changing opportunities through its TRF Second Chances Program. Gumbo with Kendrick Date: Monday, July 21 Time: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Location: Principessa Elena Society, 13 Oak Street, Saratoga Springs, NY Now in its fifth year, this fan-favorite dinner brings beloved jockey Kendrick Carmouche back to the kitchen to prepare his signature Louisiana gumbo. Guests will enjoy live entertainment, a cash bar, and an authentic taste of Kendrick's southern roots. LALO “For Jocks & Horses” Date: Tuesday, July 30 Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Location: The Adelphi Hotel, 365 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY This cocktail-style event is hosted in partnership with LALO Tequila and benefits both the TRF and the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund. Featuring signature drinks, small bites, and an opportunity to mingle with jockeys and horsemen, this evening invites guests to support two meaningful causes while enjoying the vibrant Saratoga scene. TRF Backyard BBQ at Rood & Riddle Date: Tuesday, Aug. 19 Time: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Location: Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, 63 Henning Road, Saratoga Springs, NY The summer series concludes with the TRF Backyard BBQ hosted by Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital. Held on the grounds of their Saratoga Springs facility, the evening will feature classic BBQ fare, cash bar, live entertainment, a silent auction and the chance to meet and network with equine professionals, supporters, and racing professionals. To purchase tickets or learn more, please visit: www.trfinc.org/events The post Gumbo With Kendrick Kicks Off TRF Saratoga Summer Series appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Fourteen wildcards have been added to the Tattersalls Online July Sale, including a complete dispersal of 10 lots from the estate of the late Kevin Prendergast following the passing of the legendary Irish trainer. Bidding will open at 11am on Tuesday, July 1 and close at 11am the following day. Among nine horses in training in the dispersal is the three-year-old filly Glory To Be, who confirmed the promise of her debut effort when filling the runner-up spot in a five-furlong maiden at Cork last time. The daughter of Cotai Glory, who is out of a half-sister to the dam of Group 1 winners Creative Force and Persuasive, will be offered as lot 110. Another attractive prospect is the three-year-old gelding Iowntheball (lot 111). A winner over seven furlongs as a juvenile and placed twice this year, the son of Advertise is a half-brother to the Listed-placed Zim Baby. A colt named Mergus Serrator (lot 115) features among a selection of unraced two-year-olds. The son of Masar is out of a full-sister to the Listed winner and Group 1-placed Whitecliffsofdover, while the dispersal also includes the broodmare Butterfly Garden (lot 117), a winning daughter of Awtaad who is being offered in foal to Mac Swiney. Meanwhile, Ralph Beckett's Kimpton Down Stables have added two colts to their draft, including Too Don Juan (lot 104), a son of Too Darn Hot and out of a daughter of the multiple Group 1-winning mare Islington. He is joined by Invincible Duke (lot 105), another well-bred colt who has been placed twice to date and is a half-brother to the Group 3-placed Duchess Of Dubai. The full catalogue is available to view here. The post Kevin Prendergast Dispersal Headlines Tattersalls Online July Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Goffs chief Henry Beeby has described himself as 'quietly hopeful' ahead of the groundbreaking new Classic Breeze-Up Sale, due to kick off at 6.15pm on Saturday. This will be the first sale of its kind in Ireland with Goffs bidding to cater to a sector of breeze-up handlers who would usually be making their way to Arqana in France by this time of year with their later-maturing juveniles. The breeze itself took place at Naas on Monday with inspections continuing that evening and into the following morning. Handlers returned to the Kildare Paddocks on Friday morning to continue showing and, while footfall is reported to be steady, Beeby says he has no doubt that the horses assembled at Goffs have the right profile to attract a good buying bench on Saturday. “We're quietly hopeful,” he said. “It's obviously a big test as it's the first time there has been a new breeze-up sale in Ireland for a number of years. We've had rave reviews about the location of the breeze at Naas and we can't say enough good things about that. There has been plenty of interest and we believe there are enough good horses here to attract a good buying bence so let's see what happens.” Asked if it was too early to think about how this sale could be refined going forward, Beeby said, “Internally, we will review it on Monday and take some soundings back from the vendors in particular. There's nothing I'm thinking, 'oh Lord, I wish I had done this differently' about. We've had a bigger gap than is traditional in Europe between the breeze and the sale. Whether that ends up being a positive or a negative will be found out on Saturday. We've made sure the integrity of the process has been maintained by taking blood tests post-sale and will offer that again at the point of purchase. We're delighted with the catalogue that we have assembled and we have been well-supported by the breeze-up community.” Tom and David Brickley of Ard Erin Stud openly admit to being major fans of the new concept. The Brickleys will offer colts by Zarak and Sioux Nation that were put aside with this sale in mind. David explained, “The two horses we brought here are later-maturing types that needed a bit of time. You'd imagine that the Zarak colt is tailor-made for this sale and the Sioux Nation colt is out of a good Aga Khan family and is coming to himself at the right time also. It's a different concept, a bit like America where the breeze and the sale are spaced out a bit, but we're delighted to be supporting it. The one thing I would say is, while we haven't been overrun with shows, the phone has been busy all week and we have had plenty of calls from different buyers. That has to be a very positive sign.” He added, “The breeze-up consignors were crying out for a sale like this and credit to Goffs for taking it on. We're all hoping that it goes well and that there is something to build on. Anyone that I have spoken to definitely thinks that there is, so fingers crossed for Saturday.” Beeby acknowledged that the boutique nature of the sale means that footfall will naturally be down compared to the usual breeze-up sales and shared that he expects a lot of work to be done online and over the phone by agents and buyers on Saturday. He said, “We know there are people coming who haven't been on the ground yet but we are also expecting a fair bit of telephone and online bidding. That is the nature of the breeze-ups – there is so much transparency with the film of the breeze and vetting etc. This is a sale where a few pairs of eyes can cater for a lot of different people. Our indication is that there are a number of horses that will have plenty of interest in them.” Asked what would deem this new sale a success, Beeby concluded, “Deemed a success would mean people will walk away saying that was a good sale. How a good sale is defined is by selling a good proportion of the horses. We'd also like to sell some horses for a price that will catch people's eye. We want this sale to be seen as a viable part of the breeze-up season. We obviously have the Doncaster Breeze-Up Sale which is massively successful and has a great record in the ring and on the track. This is the next step in adding to our portfolio.” The post Goffs ‘Quietly Hopeful’ Ahead Of Groundbreaking New Classic Breeze-Up Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A Medical Advisory Committee (MAC) made up of licensed medical professionals from a variety of specialties has been established by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) and is now accepting applications, the organization announced via press release. To be made up of licensed medical professionals from across the United States, the MAC will aim to provide diverse perspectives and clinical experience on matters relating to jockey health, safety, and well-being. The group will also provide feedback to the executive team and standing committees by offering recommendations on best practices for HISA's human safety rules. This includes reviewing proposed rules and advising on medical protocols involving jockey care, injury prevention, emergency response and other relevant health and safety topics. MAC will meet quarterly and will maintain an on-call advisory role for immediate consultation in the event of specific issues. Ideal candidates will have demonstrated expertise in areas such as sports and emergency medicine, orthopedics, neurology, cardiology, trauma care, mental health, or other medical disciplines. Experience with high-performance athletes is strongly preferred. An application may be downloaded here, and must be submitted to Niki Robb at niki.robb@hisaus.org with the subject line “MAC Application” by July 25, 2025. “By bringing together sports medical professionals from across the country, we aim to continue developing and refining best practices that protect the health of our riders–both proactively and in response to injuries sustained while riding,” added Dr. Peter Hester, HISA's National Medical Director. The post HISA Establishes Medical Advisory Committee, Accepting Applications from Qualified Professionals appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

When it came time for United (Giant's Causeway) to retire from the racetrack, there was never any doubt that he would remain with LNJ Foxwoods, the parents-and-daughter team of Larry, Nanci and Jaime Roth who had campaigned him throughout his four-year career. A seven-time graded stakes winner, the towering chestnut had become the family's all-time leading earner and they were committed to giving him a forever home. What they didn't expect, however, was just how much the competitive gelding would take to a second career. Now flourishing in the show ring under the guidance of his rider Madison Scott, United is not just thriving, but he's emerging as a shining ambassador for Thoroughbred aftercare. Purchased as a yearling by Solis/Litt Bloodstock for $300,000 at the 2016 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale, United began his career racing at Woodbine, breaking his maiden there as a 3-year-old, and then moved to Santa Anita the following year. His first start for Richard Mandella was a disappointing eighth-place finish, but the turf specialist blossomed over the course of his 4-year-old campaign. Around that same time, Scott had graduated from the Godolphin Flying Start program and started a job with Solis/Litt. She was part of the team cheering United home when he put in a determined run at 50-1 odds to finish second by a head to eventual Horse of the Year Bricks and Mortar (Giant's Causeway) in the 2019 Breeders' Cup Turf. “We were going absolutely bonkers,” Scott recalled. “No one would have known that this horse didn't win the race if you had watched our group. It came on the heels of Covfefe (Into Mischief) winning the GI Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Sprint, so it was a very special day for the Roths and the whole team.” Jaime Roth and United after the gelding's final career win in the 2021 GII John Henry Turf Championship Stakes | Benoit Over the next two seasons, United claimed seven graded stakes victories, including back-to-back wins in the GII Eddie Read Stakes and GII John Henry Turf Championship Stakes. During those two years, he ran either first or second in eight of 11 graded starts. “He had a long career and he was such a cool dude,” said Jaime Roth. “He always tried, always gave his all. He definitely kept us on our toes trying to get to that finish line. He was just a dream horse. Anyone who ever has a horse like him, you've gotta thank your lucky stars but also know that a second one may not come along like that. He was just different.” “He was as game and as genuine as they come,” Scott added. “He wore his heart on his sleeve. He gave you everything every time he went out there. He really built a great following and became a very special horse not just for the Roth family and LNJ Foxwoods, but for fans beyond that.” After closing out his 6-year-old season, United retired with over $1.8 million in earnings and a 10-4-1 record from 22 career starts. For LNJ Foxwoods, retirement did not mean the end of United's story. As they explored second-career options, they found the perfect partner in Scott. Scott and United training for the Real Rider Cup | Katie Petrunyak “The Roths very generously agreed to let me ride him and use him as an ambassador for off-the-track Thoroughbreds,” said Scott. “He was such a notable and genuine horse with a beautiful personality that he's been a great example to showcase both what Thoroughbreds can do in their next career and how owners can take great care and pride in their horse–not just on the racetrack, but afterwards. LNJ Foxwoods still owns United. I'm just lucky to be a passenger and a part of the story.” Over the past few years, United has competed at eventing competitions throughout Kentucky. Last year, he scored his first blue ribbon in the Beginner Novice division of the Kentucky Oktoberfest Horse Trials. Scott said the grit and determination United showed on the racetrack are still very much evident in his new career. “I always say that United is the same horse off the track as he was on it,” she explained. “He's as level-headed as they come, but he knows when it's time to get out there and do his thing. When we go into the ring and he hears the crowd and the announcer, you can feel that energy, which is pretty cool.” While he carries a spirited intensity in the ring, United is known for his easygoing nature around the barn. Although Roth has no riding background, she has taken the reins herself a time or two when visiting United. Flavien Prat, who was United's regular jockey, has brought his children to visit the gelding. “Watching a 6-year-old and a 3-year-old hop up on him, jog him around, and seeing him being happy as could be to take care of those kids was a pretty special thing to watch,” said Scott. United enjoys a pick of grass after training | Katie Petrunyak At the Roth family home, a trophy case displaying all of United's accomplishments is growing more crowded with each passing year. The trophies from his stakes victories share space with brightly colored ribbons from his jumping competitions. “Madison sends us regular pictures of him and it's just as nice as getting pictures when he was on the track,” said Roth. “I'm just so proud of what my family did with him and giving him the life that he has. He's been such a great ambassador. He's kind, but he wants to have a job and you know that you can put anyone on him.” “Working with the Roth family has been such a privilege and a joy for many reasons, but one of them is that they prioritize the aftercare and the well-being of their horses,” said Scott. “For any of us in the industry, you do this because you love horses. To be able to work with people every day that feel the same way as we do, that's a very special thing.” In 2023, Scott and United competed in their first Real Rider Cup, a charity show jumping event founded by Anita Motion in 2017 to raise funds and awareness for Thoroughbred aftercare. With legs in Maryland and Kentucky, the competition pairs racing industry participants with retired Thoroughbreds to complete a timed jump course. Each participant is required to raise a minimum of $1,000 for aftercare. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $600,000. Scott and United are set to return to the competition this year. The 2025 Real Rider Cup will be held in Lexington this Saturday, June 28, at New Vocations at Mereworth Farm. The second leg of the event will be held on Oct. 18 in Fair Hill, Maryland. Other racing celebrities, both human and equine, set to show off their skills this weekend include trainer Rodolphe Brisset, who rides stakes winner and 2018 Breeders' Cup runner The Black Album (FR) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), jockey Sophie Doyle, and the TDN's own Social Media Manager Sara Gordon. 2022 GII Suburban Stakes winner Dynamic One (Union Rags), who went through the New Vocations program after retiring from the racetrack, will be competing with his 16-year-old owner Madison Thompson. The Real Rider Cup is free to attend. Gates open to the public at 6pm and the first rider takes the course at 7. RSVP to attend here and meet the full roster of horse-and-ride teams here. The post United’s Next Chapter: From Turf Star to Aftercare Ambassador appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

In this series, the TDN takes a look at notable successes of European-based sires in North America. This week's column is highlighted by the victory of Nitti in the San Juan Capistrano Stakes. Make Believe Brings Up A Santa Anita Double Make Believe's Nitti captured the GIII San Juan Capistrano Stakes at Santa Anita for trainer Leonard Powell on June 15 (video). It was a first black-type win for the 4-year-old gelding who races for Innergy Racing Corp, Zephyr Racing and Sonny Pais. Bred by John Walsh, Jerry O'Brien and the Make Believe Syndicate in Ireland, he was winning for the third time and second in a row. After selling for €15,000 as a Tattersalls Ireland September yearling to Peter Nolan and Noel Meade, he managed a third-place finish in three Irish starts before embarking on an American campaign. The second foal and first winner out of the four-time winner Baby Love (It's Gino), Nitti has a 2-year-old half-brother by Awtaad. His granddam Beltana (Areion) was a listed winner in Germany and the dam of German Group 3 winner Butzje (It's Gino). Earlier on the card, 5-year-old mare Hopeful (Make Believe) got the job done for Rancho Temescal Thoroughbred Partners, Upland Flats Racing and Nick Bauer (video). It marked the Nawara Stud-bred's second lifetime victory after a tally over the Newcastle all-weather in January of 2024. Following her 100,000gns sale to Rancho Temescal at the Tattersalls December Mares Sale, she is now trained by Mark Glatt and is a half-sister to the G3 Aston Park Stakes hero Eydon (Olden Times), as well as the winning 4-year-old filly Teeran (Kingman). Make Believe has sired four winners from eight runners in the U.S. (50%). Nitti is his first stakes winner there. For the 2025 season, the Ballylinch resident is priced at €8,000. Nitti Blows By Rivals In The Stretch To Win Stakes Debut In Sunday's GIII, San Juan Capistrano Stakes On Closing Day Of The Hollywood Meet At Santa Anita pic.twitter.com/o99gtE69mT — Santa Anita Park (@santaanitapark) June 16, 2025 Lope De Vega Sires Winning Pair Mayor Of Midnight was one of two winners by Lope De Vega to strike in this latest edition of Making Waves, after he captured a Belmont at the Big A contest on June 20 (video) for Peter Brant and Tony Shafrazian. The Chad Brown-trained 3-year-old gelding was bred by Brant's White Birch Farm in Ireland. The 190,000gns buy-back out of the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale Book is a son of the dual listed-placed Galileo mare Amerique. The half-brother to Listed Pretty Polly Stakes winner Maqsad (Siyouni) was making his third start. He is also a half-brother to G3 Eyrefield Stakes second Cambridge (Dubawi), as well as the unraced 2-year-old filly Pastelist (Palace Pier)–a 260,000gns Book 1 buy by Cary Bloodstock for Wells Watson–and a yearling colt by Sottsass. G1 Prix de Diane winner Aquarelliste (Danehill) is the second dam of Mayor Of Midnight. Lupa, who races in the silks of Mark Dodson, graduated on debut at Woodbine on June 21 (video). The Josie Carroll trainee was bred by Rabbah Bloodstock. Selected by Ben McElroy for Dodson for 200,000gns at the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale Book 1, the bay is the third foal out of Listed Silver Tankard Stakes victress Teofilo's Princess (Teofilo). Her juvenile half-sister Loquella (No Nay Never) sold for 48,000gns out of Book 2 of the 2024 edition of that sale to Johnston Racing last autumn. This is the same clan as G1 International Stakes winner One So Wonderful (Nashwan). Ballylinch Stud's Lope De Vega has sired 50 winners from 91 runners (55%) in the U.S. and Canada. One shy of a dozen stakes winners in that locale, he has four Grade I winners there, including Carl Spackler, the winner of the GI Turf Mile Stakes, GI Maker's Mark Mile Stakes, and GI Fourstardave Handicap. The son of Shamardal stands for €175,000 this year. Mayor of Midnight breaks his maiden in R2 at BAQ! Flavien Prat was up for trainer Chad Brown. pic.twitter.com/nj0OOkROPD — TwinSpires Racing (@TwinSpires) June 20, 2025 Vesting Scores In New York Three Diamonds Farm's Vesting (Blue Point) added another win to his ledger during the Belmont at the Big A meeting for trainer Michael Maker on June 22 (video). Bred by Mrs. S. Rowley-Williams, the 4-year-old gelding claimed the 1 1/2-mile affair by 3 1/2 lengths. It was his first win for his current owners since selling for $85,000 at the 2025 Keeneland April Horses-of-Racing-Age Sale. Formerly campaigned by Klaravich Stables, the bay had originally been a €215,000 Goffs November weanling turned 190,000gns Tattersalls October Book 1 yearling when purchased by Mike Ryan for Klaravich. The fourth foal and one of three winners from five to race for his late dam, the Galileo mare Wild Child, Vesting's youngest half-sibling is the 2-year-old filly Wild Bessie (Space Blues). His second dam is the G3 Renaissance Stakes heroine Beauty Bright (Danehill). Darley's Blue Point is responsible for eight winners from 15 runners (15%) in the U.S. GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint hero Big Evs and GIII Goldikova Stakes heroine Raqiya are his best to race in that jurisdiction. His 2025 fee is €100,000. Showcasing Gelding Puts Delaware Park On Notice Shamrock Farm's End Of Romance ran out a handy winner at Delaware Park on June 21 (video). Trained by Graham Motion, the son of Showcasing was bred by Corduff Stud and T. J. Rooney. Now a three-time winner, the stakes-placed son of Folk Melody (Street Cry) has yet to meet his reserve across three sales to date. Offered by Corduff Stud at the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale Book 1, he was passed in for 110,000gns, and the story was the same as a €130,000 RNA during the 2024 Arqana May 2-Year-Old Sale. A first-out winner for Timothy J. Rooney and trainer Karl Burke at Pontefract last August, he was back in the Tattersalls ring after a third at Chester and was a 380,000gns buy-back during the Autumn Horses-in-Training Sale in October before winning at Southwell. The half-brother to Hong Kong wunderkind Romantic Warrior's first American start was also his first start for his new connections. The grandson of GI E. P. Taylor Stakes heroine Folk Opera (Singspiel) is kin to G1 Prix Marcel Boussac heroine Proportional (Beat Hollow). Whitsbury Manor Stud's Showcasing has sired 53% winners to runners (17/32) in America. Six of them have struck at stakes level, with a trio Grade III winners anchored by Prize Exhibit. Showcasing's 2025 fee is £35,000. Light Mood Wins At Delaware Graham Motion trainee Light Mood (City Light) made a winning American debut when taking out a Delaware Park contest on June 14 (video). The 4-year-old gelding is owned by Madaket Stables, Bill Strauss and Hal Mintz. Bred by Ecurie Jean-Louis Bouchard, the dark bay sold for €28,000 out of the Arqana October Yearling Sale to Nicolas Perret. The Ecurie T Sivadier and Remy Dupuy-Naulot runner won at second asking at Marseille in December, and, after running third in the Listed Prix de la Californie at Cagnes-sur-Mer in start number four in February, transferred to the U.S. The fifth foal and third winner out of the multiple stakes-placed mare Upbeat Mood (Mizzen Mast), Light Mood counts the juvenile filly Upbeat Spirit as his full-sister. GI Just a Game Stakes heroine Antonoe (First Defence), herself the dam of GII Wonder Again Stakes heroine and GI Belmont Oaks Invitational Stakes second Segesta (Ghostzapper), is a half-sister to Upbeat Mood. Haras d'Etreham's City Light, who stands for €10,000 this year, has three winners from four to race (75%) in the U.S. Overall, he has two stakes winners internationally with G3 Prix Miesque victress Mimos his best. Repeat Winners Anthony Fanticola's Motorious (Muhaarar) was back in the winner's circle after the GIII Daytona Stakes at Santa Anita on June 14 (video). The Phil D'Amato trainee won the 6 1/2-furlong Grade III by 1 1/4 lengths. Frankel's Rebel Red earned his first black-type win in the Chorleywood Stakes at Churchill Downs on June 14 (video). The full-brother to Newsells Park stallion and Group 1 winner Without Parole, the Cherie DeVaux trainee is owned by John Gunther and Eurowest Bloodstock. Klaravich Stables and Chad Brown teamed up with Risk Threshold (Dubawi) to win a Belmont at the Big A contest earlier this month (video). The Alan Spence-bred was winning for the third time in nine starts. Another Klaravich/Brown representative that won recently was Redistricting (Kingman). The 5-year-old gelding won Monmouth's Monmouth Stakes on June 14 (video). Motorious Returns A Winner In Saturday's Grade III Daytona Stakes Sprinting About 6 ½ Furlongs On The Hillside Turf Course pic.twitter.com/uZ6jdwl9lB — Santa Anita Park (@santaanitapark) June 15, 2025 The post Making Waves: Getting Down To The Nitti Gritty appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Sam Agars GENTLEMEN LEGACY - R3 (6) Racing in good form and should enjoy the rise in trip Jay Rooney OLDTOWN - R9 (5) Brave fourth last start and looks to have plenty of scope for improvement Trackwork Spy GENTLEMEN LEGACY - R3 (6) Can go one better after strong back-to-back runs Phillip Woo DOUBLE WIN - R5 (6) Looks set to erase his maiden status from the inside gate Shannon (Vincent Wong) KA YING GLORY - R9 (3) Ran a nice second last start and looks hard to beat with Zac Purton...View the full article

Richard Kingscote, a winner of the G1 Derby aboard Desert Crown (Nathaniel) in 2022, has received a licence to ride in Hong Kong for six months next season. His licence is from July 17, 2025 to February 17, 2026. Responsible for four winners from 42 rides over a six-week period this season, Kingscote joins Andrea Atzeni and Harry Bentley in Hong Kong, with the latter pair licenced to ride in Hong Kong for another full season. Atzeni is currently sitting third in the Hong Kong jockeys' championship with 54 winners and HK$88,131,100 (£8.2m) in prize-money. Bentley has ridden 30 winners this season. The post Derby-Winning Jockey Kingscote Receives Six-Month Hong Kong Licence appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A strong catalogue of 171 yearlings, including a Hello Youmzain half-brother to GIII Florida Oaks heroine Outburst (Outstrip), features in the Arqana v.2 catalogue. Selling as lot 347, he is joined by a Thunder Moon colt out of a half-sister to G2 Prix de la Nonette heroine and GI Diana Stakes second Dream Peace (Dansili) (lot 467); a Goken colt (lot 445) who is from the same family as G3 Prix Minerve winner Maroussies Wings (In The Wings); another colt by Thunder Moon (lot 312) who is out of the multiple group-placed Al Johrah (Bated Breath), herself a half-sister to multiple group winner and multiple Group 1-placed Stormy Antarctic (Stormy Atlantic); a Starspangledbanner colt (lot 417) from the same family as group winners Volta (Siyouni) and Calvados Blues (Lando); and progeny of listed scorers Acapulco Gold (Bungle Inthejungle) (lot 309); Evaporation (Red Ransom) (lot 359); and Sainte Amarante (Le Havre) (lot 444); while Mehmas has a colt (lot 429) who is a half-brother to multiple listed winner and G3 Prix Djebel and Prix de Cabourg-placed Prince Lancelot (Sir Prancealot) among others. The 2025 edition, held on Wednesday, August 20 beginning at 11 a.m., also features yearlings by the following stallions: such as Advertise, Bated Breath, City Light, Cotai Glory, Dark Angel, Galiway, Intello, Kendargent, Kodiac, Kodi Bear, Penny's Picnic, Raven's Pass, Sioux Nation, Siyouni, Ten Sovereigns and Wooded. Among the young sires with offspring catalogued are A'Ali, Ardad, Armor, Blackbeard, Ebro River, Earthlight, Galileo Gold, Golden Horde, Harry Angel, Keiai Nautique, Lucky Vega, Perfect Power, Romanised, Sergei Prokofiev, Sealiway, Space Blues, Supremacy, and Victor Ludorum. In 2024, 135 yearlings sold (79%) from 170 offered for a gross of €4,523,000. The average was €33,504 and the median was €27,000. The sale topper was a daughter of Starspangledbanner out of Spanish Angel (Dark Angel), herself a full-sister to G1 Poule d'Essai des Pouliches victress Mangoustine, who sold for €115,000 to Arthur Hoyeau. Now named Self Control, she has placed for Francis-Henri Graffard and was most recently third at Chantilly on June 24. Inspections will be held on Tuesday, August 19. The post Sibling To Florida Oaks Heroine Outburst Features In Quality Arqana v.2 Catalogue appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The National Online Breeding Stock Sale has launched on Gavelhouse Plus with bidding open on the 87 Lots sale which is set to end from 7pm on Wednesday 9th July. This year’s sale boasts a quality selection of both young and proven mares plus stallion shares in Reliable Man, Santos, Shamexpress and Wrote. gavelhouse.com and New Zealand Bloodstock representative Patrick Cunningham is pleased with the assembly of stock. “This annual sale of premium breeding stock holds plenty of appeal for breeders looking to source commercial mares. There are 11 stakes-performers catalogued, and no less than nine black-type producers also on offer.” “With the calibre of stallion currently available in New Zealand, now is a terrific time to invest in some quality bloodlines that could prove very prosperous either through the sales ring or racetrack in future.” Covering sires represented among the 32 in-foal mares include Ace High, Almanzor, Ardrossan, Armory, Bivouac, Circus Maximus, Hellbent, Hello Youmzain, Noverre, Ocean Park, Paddington, Per Incanto, Profondo, Satono Aladdin, Shamexpress, Swiss Ace, Sword of State, Vanbrugh and War Decree. Broodmare sires among the country’s top 50 represented include Darci Brahma, Fastnet Rock, High Chaparral, Iffraaj, Mastercraftsman, O’Reilly, Pentire, Per Incanto, Pins, Rip Van Winkle, Savabeel, Shocking, Showcasing, Snitzel, Stravinsky, Swiss Ace, Tavistock, Volksraad and Zabeel. View the full article

Coolmore's G1 Derby hero Lambourn (Australia) will renew rivalry with Epsom second and third, Lazy Griff (Protectionist) and Tennessee Stud (Wootton Bassett), and heads a field of 10 declared runners for Sunday's €1.25-million G1 Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby. He is one of five contenders set to represent Aidan O'Brien and has been allocated stall five. Lazy Griff is alongside in four while Tennessee Stud is on the wing in stall 10. The Ralph Beckett-conditioned G2 Dante Stakes winner Pride Of Arras (New Bay) is the only other Epsom runner backing up in Co. Kildare having posted a disappointing 17th in the Blue Riband. He has drawn stall eight and will be accompanied by stablemate Sir Dinadan (Camelot), who will depart from stall two. The Marc Chan colours of Sir Dinadan will also be carried by Jessica Harrington trainee and G1 2000 Guineas sixth Green Impact (Wootton Bassett), who will load alongside Lambourn in stall six. Wootton Bassett is the numerically strongest sire with four declared and is also represented by Ballydoyle nominees Serious Contender and Thrice. The Aidan O'Brien quintet also includes Puppet Master (Camelot) and Shackleton (Camelot). The post Irish Derby Attracts Field of 10, Lambourn, Lazy Griff and Tennessee Stud Set for Epsom Sequel appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Richard Kingscote will return to Hong Kong, Ben Thompson will depart and Tony Cruz has been permitted to train beyond the age of 70, the Jockey Club’s licensing committee confirmed on Friday. Kingscote is the only addition to a riding cohort that will lose Antoine Hamelin, who returns to France at the end of this term after five years in Hong Kong, the retiring Alfred Chan Ka-hei and Ben Thompson, who has opted to head back to Australia after nearly 18 months in the city. A multiple Group One...View the full article

Harness Racing New Zealand has released a new regulation that will shape how meetings are conducted and races are programmed, handicapped, and rated. The new Conduct of Meetings, Programming, Handicapping and Rating Regulation comes into effect on Monday 30 June 2025, and replaces the existing Handicapping Regulation, Programming Condition – General Regulation, and Ratings Handicapping System Guiding Principles. HRNZ acknowledges the short notice of this release. However, it follows a lengthy consultation process across the industry. The organisation has aimed to give due consideration to all feedback and incorporate it where appropriate, while still working to the 30 June implementation date. These changes are the result of a collaborative 18-month process involving the Utilisation Reference Group, National and Regional Forums, and feedback from industry participants. The updated regulation reflects the recommendations from this work, with a focus on improving field sizes, simplifying programming, and supporting consistent racing opportunities. Key outcomes include: A clearer rating transition structure: All one-win horses will now be rated R40, two-win horses R45, and three-win horses R50, regardless of when those wins occurred. Retention of junior driver concessions in a revised format, with potential further reforms to be considered separately. Scratching penalties will not change at this stage – an alternative approach will be developed and consulted on. Updated procedures for the Bureau based on feedback and operational learnings since its introduction. Clarifications to existing wording to remove anomalies and support fairer programming. HRNZ has committed to closely monitoring the implementation of the new regulation and will establish a small external team to independently review outcomes. A formal report is due in February 2026 Click here to view the official notice View the full article

by Jonny Turner Teamwork helped turn frustration into winning delight when The Greek Freak broke through at Winton on Thursday. The trotter produced a gritty effort to break maidens, handing husband-and-wife trainers Richard and Fiona Stevens their first trotting win. The teamwork that went into The Greek Freak’s win goes beyond what the Stevens have poured into the horse themselves. Earlier this year, the five-year-old was struggling to trot around the first bend in his races, let alone prove competitive at the finish. But after getting his manners and gait in check, the squaregaiter built solid form before digging in to win for driver Brent Barclay. The Stevens were quick to credit several of their southern harness racing counterparts for their support in helping The Greek Freak’s progression. “I know little about pacers and even less about trotters,” Richard Stevens quipped. “He wasn’t trotting any good, and Nathan Williamson reckoned he needed more weight in front.” “So Franksy (Brendan Franks) has worked away at his shoeing and done a great job.” “Matty Williamson was a big help too — he helped him get his confidence.” “And Tommy Beckett has been doing chiropractic work on him lately, and it has made a real difference.” The Greek Freak was purchased in an online auction on Gavelhouse for just $1300, sending him on a journey from Auckland to Winton. “He cost $1300, and it was $1600 to get him home,” Stevens said. “At the time, there were only about six or eight maiden trotters going around, so we thought we might be able to pick a race up with him.” “When you get a new horse, it always takes a month to figure them out, but with this guy, it has been a lot longer.” “But to say he has tested our patience would be an understatement.” “He went through a stage of doing 360-degree turns on the track going full speed.” “He took out the galloping pacemaker one day.” “But we have worked away with him — it has been a real team effort, and today’s result is very satisfying.” Given the headaches The Greek Freak has given the Stevens, and the great progress they are making with the trotter, a stint in the spelling paddock isn’t on the horse’s agenda. “I don’t think he is done with yet.” “As much as we want to give him a break, we will probably keep ticking away with him.” “He will tell us when he is ready for a break, but because he is a bit highly strung, he might have a few short breaks here and there.” Thursday’s victory was win number two for the Stevens’ training partnership. View the full article

Ashburton trainer Gerard O’Reilly will be looking to turn the tables on Akatea ($2.60FF) in the inaugural running of the Silk Road Series Final tonight at Addington Raceway with his mare Esmeralda. The four-year-old Always B Miki mare has compiled a sound record to date — winning four from nine and placing a further four times. Her most recent victory at Addington over 2600m showcased her tenacity and strength after being pressured a few times during the running. “She’s handling all the racing really well,” said O’Reilly. But they have yet to beat home race rival and close second favourite Akatea, who is gunning for five wins in a row — a feat achieved only by great horses. “Akatea has been too good for us the last few times. It will be hard to beat,” said O’Reilly of their race rival. Esmeralda and Akatea have met twice in their careers. “She’s got enough gate speed to hold her own. She’s tough enough to do a bit of work. We will see what’s going on early.” A match race is certainly not a given, with other strong winning hopes such as the Mark Jones-trained Francent ($10.00FF) with Samantha Ottley, and the Bob Butt-trained and -driven Dynasty ($6.00FF). “It’s a great little field.” “She’ll have a spell after this, then we will get her back for the springtime.” The Plumbing World ‘Silk Road’ Mares’ Series Final over 1980m for a stake of $34,000 is carded as race seven on the programme and gets underway at 8:02pm. Earlier in the night, O’Reilly also trains and drives My Royal Break ($34.00FF) in race five, the Harrison Bloy Plumbing & Bathrooms Mobile Trot over 1980m. The four-year-old Royal Aspirations mare is still learning the racing game; however, she comes into tonight’s fixture off the back of some steady performances. “She’s been getting too far back, but she’s holding her own.” “It’s a tidy field, and it depends on where we end up in the running.” My Royal Break performed well two and three starts ago at Timaru and Ashburton respectively, before running a credible seventh behind Lottie’s Moment on June 8th at Addington. “She’s still doing a few things wrong, but when she gets her head around it all, she’s capable of winning a few races.” O’Reilly will also drive Swift Guy ($10.00FF) for his brother Kerry O’Reilly in race two, the Chester’s Plumbing & Bathrooms Mobile Pace over 2600m. The consistent twenty-one-start maiden will suit the longer journey of 2600m, according to O’Reilly. “The two-six will suit him. He’s run in good races but keeps getting beaten.” Meanwhile, Ivan Court trains last-start winner Stylish Lustre ($23.00FF), which O’Reilly will drive in race eight, the BC Plumbers Pace over 2000m. “She won well the other day. If she begins well and gets a nice run, she should be a top-four chance.” Race one starts at 5:14pm. View the full article

The late Mike Moroney always believed Coeur Volante (NZ) (Proisir) had the potential to be a Group One winner. As a three-year-old, Coeur Volante started favourite in the Gr.1 Thousand Guineas (1600m) at Caulfield, finishing fourth to Joliestar (Zoustar), while placegetters in that race were subsequent Group One winners Kimochi (Brave Smash) and Skybird (Exosphere). Coeur Volante was Moroney’s last winner when successful in the Gr.3 Mannerism Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield in February before dying in his sleep just days later. Under the care of Glen Thompson, Coeur Volante did not run again at Group One level until this year’s Sydney Autumn Carnival where the mare finished in the second half of the field in both the Gr.1 Coolmore Classic (1500m) and the Gr.1 Queen Of The Turf Stakes (1600m). Now in the care of the Lindsay Park team of Ben, Will & Jd Hayes, Coeur Volante is down to run in the final Group One race of the 2024-25 season, the Tattersall’s Tiara (1400m), another contest for the fillies and mares, at Eagle Farm on Saturday. Coeur Volante will be having her second outing for the Hayes brothers, having finished ninth in the Listed Helen Coughlan Stakes (1200m) at Eagle Farm on June 7. Will Hayes said Coeur Volante had made good progress from that first-up outing having had two trials for the stable after joining the Lindsay Park operation following the Queen Of The Turf Stakes. “We are very happy with how she’s progressed out of her first-up run,” Hayes said. “We were seven weeks between runs, not by design, just with the floods and the weather up there, we couldn’t get a run into her. “But she has tightened up nicely and we expect her to run a forward race.” Jockey Jordan Childs will have to be at his best if he is to get Coeur Volante home. Coeur Volante drew gate 20 at Wednesday’s barrier draw but will come into barrier 15 if the five emergencies do not gain a start. Lindsay Park collected the Gr.1 Stradbroke Handicap (1400m) on June 14 with the former Moroney-trained galloper War Machine (NZ) (Harry Angel). View the full article

With Jim Chung’s two-kilogram claim reducing his weight to 57.5kg, Bradman will attempt to break a year-long absence from the winners’ circle in the MJH Engineering Limited Whyte Handicap (1600m) at Trentham on Saturday. The Pins gelding has won eight races and more than $317,000 in stakes, but has endured a frustrating run through the last 13 months. Since his last victory in a 1400m open handicap at Trentham in May of last year, Bradman has run second in the Listed AGC Training Stakes (1600m), fourth in the Listed Opunake Cup (1400m), third in a three-way photo finish in the Gr.3 Winter Cup (1600m), second under 60kg in the Masterton Cup (1400m), fourth in the Listed Rangitikei Cup (1600m), third in the 2025 edition of the AGC Training Stakes, and a last-start second at Wanganui when he was giving 4kg to the winner Belles Beau. Bergerson is proud of the seven-year-old’s performances, often under hefty imposts. “He’s been so consistent,” the Awapuni trainer said. “He’s racing in good form again this time in and is just a really honest horse who tries his best every time. It’s just a shame that his rating means he ends up carrying 60kg in so many of his races. “We can claim a couple off tomorrow, so hopefully that’ll help him. It looks like a suitable race for him.” Two weeks on from Bradman’s runner-up finish over 1340m at Wanganui, Bergerson expects the step up to 1600m at Trentham to suit. “We haven’t done much with him in between times,” he said. “It’s just a matter of keeping him ticking over. He goes to the beach and does a little bit of jumping here and there. These older geldings can get a bit cunning, so it’s good to mix things up and keep it interesting for him. “I think he’s a better horse at a mile than 1400m, so he’ll appreciate that distance this weekend. With that in mind, I’m not sure whether we’ll drop back to 1400m for another crack at the Opunake Cup next month. He might find a few of the others a little bit sharp over 1400m. “We’ll get through this one before making a decision on that. We may end up just giving him a trial somewhere in between times, trying a gear change and then going straight to Christchurch for the Winter Cup. That’s the main goal.” Bergerson and Chung will also team up with Farravallo in Saturday’s Bill Tito Book Repair Specialist North Island Challenge Stakes (1200m). The four-year-old son of Belardo was a last-start fifth at Wanganui on June 14. “I was a bit disappointed with that performance, but he did end up stuck in the worst part of the track,” Bergerson said. “He was a bit slower to leave the gates than I expected. He usually flies the gates and can get to the lead. Hopefully he can get away a bit quicker again tomorrow, find his way to the front in a small field and be the first into the straight so he can get to the better ground.” View the full article

Leading thoroughbred nursery Cambridge Stud has committed their full support for NZB’s 2026 National Yearling Sales Series, with the announcement they will be selling 100% of their yearling stock at Karaka. Karaka 2026, which marks the 100th National Yearling Sale in New Zealand, will debut a new format that features condensed quality throughout Book 1 and Book 2 and the introduction of a third session, the Karaka Summer Sale. Cambridge Stud has a long-standing history of selling yearlings, dating back to their debut at Trentham during the 1978 National Yearling Sale, with Sir Patrick Hogan at the helm and Sir Tristram’s inaugural crop on offer. Almost five decades later, now Stud Principals Sir Brendan and Lady Jo Lindsay, continue to ensure the rich Cambridge Stud legacy lives on in the fabric of the National Yearling Sales. “With the 100 year milestone of the sales in New Zealand, it is fitting that Cambridge Stud give their full support to Karaka 2026.” “We will be selling all of our yearlings at Karaka this season, which gives buyers clarity about where they need to be to source our stock.” “Sir Peter and the Vela family have done an incredible amount for the industry for many years, and it is important to acknowledge and support their ongoing investment in the industry here.” With Karaka 2026 due to take place from 25 to 29 January, NZB’s Managing Director Andrew Seabrook is gearing up for the new sales season and the countdown to the historic 100 year milestone. “It is certainly an exciting time in New Zealand, and having spoken to a number of people here on the grounds at Karaka at our weanling sale, they are all keen to get behind the 100th National Yearling Sale celebrations.” “Cambridge Stud’s commitment that they will be selling 100% of their yearlings at Karaka 2026 is incredibly positive for our industry. “We need to preserve our flag-bearing sale as the cream of the crop with our best stock, and we need the support of our breeders and vendors to do that. “We look forward to celebrating the history of the National Yearling Sale over the coming months, as well as ensuring the future of the Sale is just as successful.” View the full article

Darryn and Briar Weatherley are hoping a quick back-up into Saturday’s Gr.3 Tattersall’s Cup (2400m) at Eagle Farm might bring a change of fortunes for Dark Destroyer. The winner of five races and more than $640,000 in stakes, headed by the Gr.1 Tarzino Trophy (1400m) in the spring of 2022, Dark Destroyer struggled to find his best form in a 10-race preparation as a five-year-old last season. He showed promising signs last month with a second placing in the Listed Rotorua Cup (2200m), earning a trip across the Tasman alongside his high-class stablemate Pier. Dark Destroyer’s two appearances in Queensland have produced a 12th in the Gr.3 Premier’s Cup (1400m) and a 10th in last Saturday’s Listed Ipswich Cup (2150m), but Darryn Weatherley believes those results paint an incomplete picture of the Proisir gelding’s performances. “I thought his Ipswich run was a bit better than it might look on paper,” he said. “He jumped okay, but then got squeezed back through the field and ended up a lot further back than we were anticipating. “You can only follow the horse that you’re following, and unfortunately the horse in front of him stopped at the corner. It’s a tight track at Ipswich with quite a sharp turn into the straight. He was stopped in his tracks when that horse came back into his lap. He’s not a sit-sprint type of horse, he needs to be up and rolling. He actually ran through the line pretty well, but he’d lost his chance at the turn. “We’re training him on the track there at Eagle Farm, and he’s pleased us with how he’s come through last weekend. This race presented itself, right on his doorstep and over 2400m. We thought it was well worth giving him a shot. “The track’s a Soft6 at the moment, which is probably okay for him. His first run over here, the ground was just too testing. He’s got that bit more race fitness under his belt now.” The Tattersall’s Cup initially drew a field of 10, but it has been reduced to seven by scratchings. “It’s going to be an interesting race with quite a small field,” Weatherley said. “We’ve got Mark Du Plessis in the saddle. “These days he seems to prefer being out in the open and rolling along, so we’ll try to ride him forward. Hopefully, if he can roll along in front where he’s comfortable, we might see him put his best foot forward.” View the full article

Cambridge trainer Samantha Logan has had success campaigning horses in the South Island before, and she is hoping following a similar blueprint will pay off with I’ll Hava Semillon, who will bid to breakthrough for her maiden win in Sunday’s KB Contractors (2200m) at Wingatui. Stablemate Wry Smile campaigned in the south over summer, scoring his maiden win at Riccarton in January before placing at Wingatui a month later. The four-year-old gelding was based at trainer Krystal Williams’ Burnham base, and Logan has once again called on her lifelong friend to assist her in her current southern venture. “She will have this one run for me (down south) and if she shapes up down there, she will probably go into Krystal Williams’ stable,” Logan said. “We grew up together in Ruakaka. She has moved down there (Canterbury) and I have always been based in Cambridge. We were really good childhood friends and have carried that on. We help each other out as much as we can.” Logan is hoping the change in scenery will work wonders for her mare, and she has already received positive reports from Williams, who said the daughter of Redwood has settled in well. “Krystal has a lovely property and she managed to get out into the paddock for a few days and get her head down, so she bounced through it (travel) quite quickly,” Logan said. “She went down there ready to go and she has settled in well. Krystal said she worked really well yesterday (Thursday) so everyone is happy with her.” I’ll Hava Semillon will jump from barrier four on Sunday with in-form Central Districts hoop Leah Hemi in the saddle. Logan is hopeful of a positive showing, with TAB bookmakers sharing her optimism, opening I’ll Hava Semillon as a $4.20 winning chance for her southern debut. “Hopefully she goes well, they all seem to get a new lease on life with a change in scenery,” she said. While confident in her charge, there is doubt around Sunday’s meeting, with significant rain expected over the weekend. While the track was deemed safe to race on following an inspection on Friday, a further inspection will take place on Saturday to reassess the situation. “Fingers crossed it goes ahead, otherwise there should be something else coming up for her,” Logan said. Meanwhile, Logan hasn’t ruled out sending reinforcements south over the coming months and is eyeing the Grand National Festival of Racing at Riccarton in August in particular. “I have got another horse called Jelly Roll,” she said. “If he showed a bit of potential up here we might look to take him down for the Grand National week.” View the full article

Fresh off a double at Happy Valley on Wednesday night, Matthew Chadwick heads to Sha Tin on Saturday looking to continue his good form and pursuit of Tony Cruz Award leader Matthew Poon Ming-fai. By moving to 34 wins for the season with victories aboard Superb Capitalist and Another Zonda, Chadwick closed to within two of Poon in the race for leading local jockey and he has 10 chances to trim the gap even further this weekend. “I know where we’re standing, so it is on my mind,” said Chadwick of...View the full article