Wandering Eyes

Former Fonner Park CEO Hugh M. Miner Jr. died Oct. 4 at the Central Nebraska Veterans Home in Kearney, Neb. He was 78.View the full article

By Kristen Manning, courtesy of The Thoroughbred Report In a decisive move that underscores its commitment to global standards, Arion Pedigrees, Australia and New Zealand's leading thoroughbred pedigree provider, has taken a firm stance against Racing Australia's decision to upgrade The Everest and The All-Star Mile to Group 1 status. While Racing Australia hailed the upgrades as a landmark moment for Australian racing, Arion Pedigrees has opted not to recognise the new classifications until formal ratification is received from international authorities. The pedigree database, respected for maintaining the highest standards in thoroughbred bloodstock cataloguing, has made it clear that it won't be rushed into recognising races that, in its view, have not yet gone through the appropriate global processes. This move comes in response to what many in the industry see as Racing Australia “jumping the gun.” The announcement that The Everest and The All-Star Mile had been upgraded to Group 1 status was met with enthusiasm locally but concerns quickly surfaced about the lack of formal ratification from key international bodies, including the International Grading and Race Planning Advisory Committee (IRPAC) and the Society of International Thoroughbred Auctioneers (SITA). These approvals, Arion argues, are essential to maintaining the credibility of Australia's race classifications on the world stage. Kyla Johnston, Managing Director of Arion Pedigrees, expressed the company's steadfast commitment to integrity in an interview with The Thoroughbred Report. “We prefer to wait for formal international confirmation rather than rushing to upgrade races prematurely. For us, it's about ensuring the trustworthiness and uniformity of our pedigrees in line with global standards,” she said. A Longstanding Commitment to Integrity Arion Pedigrees' refusal to prematurely adopt the Group 1 classifications for The Everest and The All-Star Mile reflects a broader ethos at the heart of its operations. Founded in 1996, Arion has built its reputation on producing pedigree pages that not only meet but exceed global standards. By maintaining strict adherence to the International Cataloguing Standards, Arion ensures that its clients—whether breeders, buyers, or sellers—can rely on the accuracy and credibility of the pedigrees it produces. Johnston emphasised the importance of this approach, noting that international buyers, particularly those from markets with more rigid black-type systems such as Europe and Japan, depend on the integrity of Australian pedigrees when investing. “It's not just about putting a Group 1 label on a race; it's about ensuring that label holds the same weight here as it does in any other leading racing jurisdiction,” she said. “Our clients deserve to know that when they see a Group 1 race in an Arion pedigree, it's been recognised by the highest international authorities.” The Risks of Premature Recognition The decision by Racing Australia to push through the Group 1 upgrades without full international ratification has raised significant concerns within the industry. While The Everest and The All-Star Mile have undoubtedly attracted world-class fields, many are wary of how such unilateral upgrades might affect Australia's standing within the global thoroughbred community. Johnston pointed to the potential long-term damage of rushing such decisions. “It's not just about these two races,” she explained. “There's a much larger issue at play here. Racing Australia has indicated that up to 50 races across the country are under review for possible upgrades, many of which are based solely on local race ratings. Without international validation, we run the risk of inflating the black-type system and losing credibility on the global stage.” Indeed, the influx of proposed upgrades has sparked fears that Australia could face pushback from the international racing community. The Asian Pattern Committee has approved the Group 1 status for The Everest and The All-Star Mile, but none of the other proposed upgrades have yet received international approval. This could lead to Australia being relegated to part two of the International Cataloguing Standards, which would severely limit the international appeal of its black-type races. Johnston expressed concern that these premature upgrades could undermine the hard-fought reputation Australia has built in recent years. “Australia has become a major player in the international bloodstock market, with significant investment from overseas buyers. If those buyers begin to feel that Australia's black-type system is bloated or lacks credibility, it could have a serious impact on sales and investment,” she warned. The Importance of International Alignment At the heart of Arion's decision is a commitment to maintaining alignment with international standards. Johnston made it clear that Arion's position was not an indictment of Racing Australia's desire to innovate or promote its most prestigious races. Rather, it is a call for patience and transparency in the process of upgrading races to black-type status. “We fully understand the importance of races like The Everest and The All-Star Mile,” Johnston said. “These are races that have brought excitement and global attention to Australian racing. But to ensure that their new Group 1 status is respected internationally, we need to go through the proper channels. That means waiting for formal ratification from bodies like IRPAC and SITA.” This alignment with international bodies is more than just a formality for Arion—it's a core principle that protects the integrity of the global bloodstock market. Johnston pointed out that other racing jurisdictions, such as the UK and France, have strict protocols for upgrading and downgrading races, and it is this consistency that ensures their black-type systems are trusted worldwide. “The last thing we want is for Australia to be seen as lowering the bar when it comes to Group 1 races,” she said. A Broader Industry Concern Arion's stance has resonated with others in the Australian racing and breeding community, many of whom have voiced concerns about the potential consequences of Racing Australia's upgrades. Industry stalwarts like John Messara and Vin Cox have been vocal in their opposition, with both warning that the rapid expansion of black-type races could devalue Australia's racing programme. Messara, a breeding giant and owner of Arrowfield Stud, expressed fears that the Pattern system had been “hijacked” by state Principal Racing Authorities (PRAs), who are now making decisions without sufficient international oversight. Similarly, Vin Cox, a former member of the now-disbanded Australian Pattern Committee, criticised the lack of consultation with breeders and sales companies, arguing that the PRAs had effectively taken control of the black-type system and ignored the required due process. Johnston echoed these concerns, noting that while innovation is important, it must be balanced with the long-term interests of the industry. “We all want to see Australian racing grow and thrive,” she said. “But we have to be careful not to sacrifice credibility for short-term gains. The integrity of our black-type system is what attracts international investment, and that's something we can't afford to lose.” Looking Ahead For now, Arion Pedigrees will continue to operate under the existing guidelines set by the 2024 International Cataloguing Standards Book. While the local racing community may celebrate Racing Australia's decision to elevate The Everest and The All-Star Mile, Arion's decision to withhold recognition until formal international ratification is received serves as a reminder that credibility on the global stage is paramount. “We remain hopeful that these issues will be resolved quickly and transparently,” Johnston said. “It's in everyone's best interest that we work together to ensure that Australia's black-type system remains strong, respected, and in line with international standards.” In an industry where prestige and trust are vital to maintaining international investment, Arion Pedigrees stance is focused on ensuring that every upgrade is thoroughly vetted and aligned with the highest standards. The company's cautious approach may well be the safeguard the Australian industry needs to maintain its reputation in the international bloodstock market. TTR reached out to Racing Australia for comment but didn't receive a response before publication deadline. The post Arion Pedigrees Refuse G1 Recognition for The Everest and All-Star Mile appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Due to inclement weather in Saratoga Springs, New York, Fasig-Tipton will delay the start time of Tuesday's Saratoga Fall Mixed Sale to 12 p.m. The sale was originally slated to begin at 10 a.m. “The weather conditions here in Saratoga have made it difficult for buyers to get their looking done in a timely manner,” said Fasig-Tipton President Boyd Browning. “A two-hour delay to the sale's start will ensure that buyers and veterinarians can complete their pre-sale work properly.” The catalogue for Fasig-Tipton's Saratoga Fall Mixed Sale may be viewed here. Online bidding and phone bidding services will be available. The post Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Fall Mixed Sale Start Delayed Two Hours appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Two non-competition awards, the T.I.P. Thoroughbred of the Year Award and the T.I.P. Young Rider of the Year Award were awarded Monday by the Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program. The Thoroughbred of the Year Award recognizes a Thoroughbred that has excelled in a non-competitive career, such as equine-assisted therapy or police work, and includes a $5,000 grant to the non-profit organization associated with the horse or, if no organization is associated with the horse, to a horse-related charity chosen by The Jockey Club. The 2024 Thoroughbred of the Year is Rockaway (Rockport Harbor), a 14-year-old gelding that retired from the racetrack in 2014 and was initially used as a lesson horse before beganing his career as a police horse for Coral Gables Police Department where he has become a loyal partner to Officer Ashley Sheran. “We are honored that Rockaway has been chosen for this recognition in his post-racing career,” said Sheran. “In reinstating the presence of a police horse for our department after almost a century, he has been become an extraordinary community policing asset. When patrolling, Rockaway offers the department a vantage point for subject recognition, and a strong visible presence that serves as a deterrence to criminal activity.” The young rider award, which recognizes riders 18 or younger who own or lease a Thoroughbred for use in 4-H, Pony Club, or other activities, has been awarded to both 14-year-old Madison Hightower and 16-year-old Ashlyn Tate. Created in October 2011, T.I.P. recognizes and rewards the versatility of the Thoroughbred through sponsorship of Thoroughbred classes and high point awards at sanctioned horse shows, year-end performance awards, a recreational riding program, and non-competition awards. The post TB Incentive Program Awards Non-Competition Honors appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Following Monday's confirmation stage, 17 horses remain in contention for Saturday's G1 QIPCO Champion Stakes at Ascot, including the top-class three-year-olds Economics (GB) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}) and Calandagan (Ire) in what has the makings of a blockbuster clash. Trained by William Haggas, Economics is unbeaten in four starts this season, culminating with a first Group 1 victory in last month's Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown, while French challenger Calandagan confirmed himself a major force to be reckoned with when filling the runner-up spot behind the outstanding City Of Troy (Justify) in the G1 Juddmonte International Stakes at York in August. Mickael Barzalona was recently announced as the new first jockey to the Aga Khan, the owner of Calandagan, but Stephane Pasquier is set to continue the association at Ascot, having partnered the son of Gleneagles (Ire) in every one of his five previous starts in 2024. “I'm definitely riding him at Ascot,” Pasquier confirmed. “That's good news for him and good news for me also. I rode him in work last week and he was very good. He is a fantastic horse and he's in good form. When I rode him last week he was perfect. “It's a strong race, but Calandagan did something so special at Ascot [when winning the G2 King Edward VII Stakes] and again at York. He has a very good turn of foot and it would need something very special to beat him–it would need City Of Troy to beat him!” Irish Derby hero Los Angeles (Ire) (Camelot {GB}), a stable-mate of City Of Troy, is another talented three-year-old who shouldn't be underestimated if making a quick return to action after his third-place finish in the G1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp. He is one of six possible runners for Aidan O'Brien, with the others including the four-time Group 1 winner Luxembourg (Ire) (Camelot {GB}) and G1 St James's Palace Stakes runner-up Henry Longfellow (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}). Other notable contenders for the £1.3 million feature contest on QIPCO British Champions Day include the G1 Grosser Preis von Berlin winner Al Riffa (Fr) (Wootton Bassett {GB}), who needs to bounce back from a below-par effort in the Arc, progressive three-year-old King's Gambit (Ire) (Saxon Warrior {Jpn}) and last month's G2 Prix Foy scorer Iresine (Fr) (Manduro {Ger}). Supplemented Prague one of 15 Potential Rivals to Charyn Roger Varian's Queen Anne Stakes and Prix Jacques le Marois winner Charyn (Ire) (Dark Angel {Ire}) could face up to 15 rivals when he bids for a third Group 1 success of the campaign in the G1 Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (Sponsored by QIPCO). They include bargain buy Prague (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}), who has been supplemented at a cost of £70,000 following his victory in the G2 Joel Stakes at Newmarket. Picked up for just 10,000gns as an unraced three-year-old out of Ballydoyle, he has been on a steep upward curve this year and trainer Dylan Cunha expects conditions at Ascot to play to the strengths of his stable star. “He won on soft ground last time when he took the Joel Stakes really well,” said Newmarket-based Cunha, who is a Group 1-winning handler in his native South Africa. “He worked nicely on Saturday morning, he's come out of it really well, and he's going to get his ground. We all felt it was worth having a go. “When you look at official ratings, he's now only 5lb below Charyn. We know he will have to improve a lot to beat Charyn, but he's definitely in great form, so we have to go for it. When a horse like him is on such a steep curve, especially at this time of year, you might never get one in this form again, so we're going in with a good chance. We're fairly confident he'll run well. We've spent the money, so it is written in the stars now–we've done our bit!” Tamfana (Ger) (Soldier Hollow {GB}) looks another leading contender for David Menuisier judged on the form of her victory in the G1 Sun Chariot Stakes at Newmarket, along with last year's runner-up Facteur Cheval (Ire) (Ribchester {Ire}) and the Poule d'Essai des Poulains winner Metropolitan (Fr) (Zarak {Fr}), both of whom are set to make the journey over from France. Best of the Rest on Champions Day Champions Day kicks off with the G2 Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup in which Kyprios (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) is set to bid for his seventh success of an outstanding campaign. He will have the opportunity to avenge last year's defeat at the hands of Trawlerman (Ire) (Golden Horn {GB}), who was last seen pushing Kyprios all the way in the G1 Gold Cup at Royal Ascot in June. St Leger runner-up Illinois (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}), a stable-mate of Kyprios, G2 Doncaster Cup winner Sweet William (Ire) (Sea The Stars {Ire}) and the improving Al Nayyir (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}) also feature in a possible field of 13. A total of 22 horses remain contention for the G1 Qipco British Champions Sprint Stakes, with the 2022 victor Kinross (GB) (Kingman {GB}) set to come up against a number of Group 1 winners from earlier this season, including July Cup hero Mill Stream (Ire) (Gleneagles {Ire}) and Lockinge scorer Audience (GB) (Iffraaj {GB}). The first three from last month's Sprint Cup at Haydock could also clash again, namely Montassib (GB) (Exceed And Excel {Aus}), Kind Of Blue (GB) (Blue Point {Ire}) and Unequal Love (GB) (Dutch Art {GB}). The other Group 1 contest on the card is the Qipco British Champions Fillies and Mares Stakes in which 19 horses are currently engaged. They include Kalpana (GB) (Study Of Man {Ire}), an emphatic winner of the G3 September Stakes at Kempton on her most recent start, with the progressive Tiffany (Ire) (Farhh {GB}) and G1 Yorkshire Oaks winner Content (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) leading the potential opposition. The post Economics, Calandagan and Charyn Headline Champions Day Confirmations appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Breeders' Cup Limited will partner with leading Western lifestyle brand Lucchese Bootmaker as the exclusive bootmaker and official western wear partner of the 2024 Breeders' Cup World Championships, the company announced Monday. Established in 1883, Lucchese uses time-honored craftsmanship techniques to build handmade boots of unrivaled quality, fit, comfort, and style in El Paso, Texas. In virtually every step of their bootmaking process, they rely on human hands to complete centuries-old tasks to perfection. During the World Championships, a pop-up shopping experience with Lucchese will be held at the Plaza de Mexico at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, with a week-long pop-up store established on Camino Del Mar in downtown Del Mar. While the trackside pop-up will only offer footwear exclusively, guests can visit the downtown location to shop an impressive selection of Lucchese's handmade cowboy boots, casual footwear, apparel, accessories, handbags, and leather goods. Visitors will also have the opportunity to buy custom Lucchese graphic tees and caps. “We are pleased to welcome Lucchese as a new official partner of the World Championships,” said Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for Breeders' Cup Limited Heather Higgins. “Lucchese boots are handcrafted by artisans who use old-world methods, precision, and attention to detail that reflects their legacy. We are delighted to showcase their exceptional products.” Chief Stipe Kindy, President of Lucchese added: “At Lucchese, for over 140 years, we've always embraced a mentality where excellence is handcrafted into every detail. Partnering with the Breeders' Cup World Championships feels like a natural alignment, as this event is steeped in tradition and represents a lifestyle that celebrates elegance, heritage, and performance. The Breeders' Cup World Championships is more than just a competition; it's a reflection of the timeless values that define the world of Thoroughbred racing. We're honored to bring our own Texas heritage to this iconic event, where tradition meets the pursuit of excellence, and together, we're not just marking a moment in history but enhancing the enduring lifestyle that surrounds it.” The post Breeders’ Cup To Partner With Lucchese Bootmaker At Del Mar appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Horse of the Year Ghostzapper, a perennial leading sire, will relocate to Frank Stronach's Adena Springs Farm in Aurora, Ontario Canada for what is most likely his final year at stud, Hill 'n' Dale at Xalapa announced Monday. “I want to thank Frank Stronach for the privilege of standing Ghostzapper at Hill 'n' Dale at Xalapa,” said John Sikura. “It has been our honor to stand this outstanding sire and exceptional breed-shaping stallion. His record at stud will influence the breed for generations. At this point in his career, Ghostzapper is deserving to relocate and reunite with Adena who bred, raced and supported him at stud. Mr Stronach has a great affection for the horse and wishes to have him at Adena.” Adean Springs mares will support the 24-year-old Ghostzapper who will cover a limited book in 2025. The post Ghostzapper Relocated To Canada’s Adena Springs For Final Year At Stud appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Two time Horse of the Year Curlin (Smart Strike) remains steady atop the roster at Hill 'n' Dale Farm with a fee of $225,000 LFSN for the 2025 breeding season, the farm announced Monday. The sire of three Eclipse Award Champions last year, he currently has three Grade I winners and five Grade I performers in 2024. Standing alongside his sire, Good Magic's (Curlin) fee also remains unchanged at $125,000 LFSN. Good Magic has three Grade I winners in 2024 including GI Belmont Stakes and GI Haskell Stakes winner Dornoch, his second Classic winner from his first two crops. Good Magic is also responsible for GI Pacific Classic winner Mixto and $2,000,000 2-year-old purchase Muth, winner of the GI Arkansas Derby. Charlatan's (Speightstown) fee remains at $50,000 LFSN with a stellar market reception at both the Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale and Keeneland September. 89 yearlings averaged over $270,000 led by a $1,500,000 Fasig Tipton yearling, the highest price paid for a yearling by a freshman sire this year. Violence's (Medaglia d'Oro) will stand for $30,000 LFSN, a drop of $10,000 from last year. His best runners this year include Grade I winner Mullikin and Grade II winner Newgrange. Army Mule's (Friesan Fire) fee is $20,000 LFSN. The sire of Federal Judge, recent GII Phoenix Stakes winner at Keeneland, Army Mule boasts 10% Stakes Winners to starters lifetime. New to the roster this year is Grade I winner Arabian Knight (Uncle Mo), a $2.3M 2-year-old purchase whose crowning achievement came in the GI Pacific Classic against older horses. His inaugural fee is $30,000 LFSN. HILL 'N' DALE–2025 STUD FEES Arabian Knight, $30,000 LFSN Army Mule, $20,000 LFSN Charlatan, $50,000 LFSN Curlin, $225,000 LFSN Good Magic, $125,000 LFSN Kantharos, $12,500 LFSN Loggins, $7,500 LFSN Maclean's Music, $40,000 LFSN Midnight Lute, $10,000 LFSN Violence, $30,000 LFSN The post Curlin Steady Atop Hill ‘N’ Dale Roster At $225k appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Constitution (Tapit) continues to lead the roster at WinStar Farm and will stand the 2025 season for $110,000 S&N alongside Life is Good (Into Mischief) who will stand for $75,000 S&N, the farm announced Monday. The roster will be fortified further by new additions Cogburn (Not This Time), who will make his next start in the GI Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint with a stud fee to be announced after the race; Timberlake (Into Mischief), who will stand for $20,000 S&N; and Heartland (Justify), who will stand for $10,000 S&N. “We are excited for the 2025 breeding season and the strong stallion roster we are presenting to breeders,” said WinStar Farm President and CEO Elliott Walden. “Constitution has taken another step forward in 2024 and solidified himself as an elite sire both on the racetrack and in the sales ring. It's encouraging to see his sons having success so early in his career. Life is Good and Nashville came back to strong demand in their second crops this past season and both have a great foundation for future success that commercial breeders can have confidence in. We're excited to add three new sires to our roster–all of which have unique and elite talent. Cogburn, Timberlake, and Heartland will be well supported by the farm. Our team looks forward to working with breeders this year to create value and help achieve our collective goals.” Constitution is the No. 5 General Sire with progeny earnings this season of $12,577,533, and he is the No. 3 leading sire of 3-year-olds this year by earnings, behind only Justify and Into Mischief. A Top 10 yearling sire in 2023 and 2024, Constitution has been represented by yearlings this year of $1.2 million, $1.1 million, $1 million, $975,000 etc. His leading runners in 2024 include Classic-placed Mindframe, second in both the GI Belmont Stakes and GI Haskell Stakes and Catching Freedom, third in the GI Preakness Stakes and winner of the GII Louisiana Derby and Smarty Jones Stakes. Life Is Good, a four-time Grade I winner in his racing career, enters his third season at stud in 2025. He was bred to 192 mares in his first season at stud, and to 186 mares in 2024 with his first weanlings selling this year. Cogburn was a record-setting winner of the GI Jaipur Stakes during the Belmont Racing Festival at Saratoga over the summer where he set a North American record for 5 1/2 furlong on turf. After an opening quarter in :21.33 and a half mile split in :43.07, Cogburn flew home in a final time of :59.80, eclipsing the previous North American record of 1:00.21 set in 2019. Following the Jaipur, Cogburn proved an authoritative winner of the GII Turf Sprint Stakes at Kentucky Downs where he completed six furlongs on turf in 1:07.68, just missing another course record. Heading into the Breeders' Cup, Cogburn is a winner in nine of 15 lifetime starts and he has amassed earnings of $2,392,630. 'TDN Rising Star' Timberlake, winner of the GI Champagne Stakes), joins Practical Joke as the only other son of Into Mischief to win a Grade I as a 2-year-old. In completing the one-mile Champagne in 1:35.90 over the sloppy (sealed) track, and earning a 93 Beyer, Timberlake left in his wake that day the likes of Fierceness (City of Light), the subsequent 2-Year-Old Champion Male. Making his seasonal debut at three, Timberlake won the GII Rebel Stakes at Oaklawn Park. In addition to his stakes wins, he finished a close second in the GI Hopeful Stakes at two and was third in the GI Haskell Stakes this year. All told, Timberlake won or placed in 5-of-9 career starts, including three Grade I's, for trainer Brad Cox while banking $1,303,100. 'TDN Rising Star' Heartland is a half-brother to Champion 2-Year-Old Classic Empire (Pioneerof the Nile) who flashed his brilliance in an impressive 5 1/2-furlong debut at Del Mar. His final time of 1:03.20 was the fastest time of any 2-year-old at the distance at Del Mar or Saratoga in 2023. WINSTAR FARM–2025 STUD FEES Audible (Into Mischief), $10,000 Cogburn, (TBA) Constitution, $110,000 Country Grammar, $5,000 Global Campaign, $7,500 Heartland, $10,000 Independence Hall, $7,500 Life Is Good, $75,000 Nashville, $15,000 Promises Fulfilled, $5,000 Take Charge Indy, $7,500 Timberlake, $20,000 Tom's d' Etat, $5,000 Two Phil's, $10,000 The post Constitution Leads 2025 WinStar Farm Roster appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Domestic Product (Practical Joke-Goods and Services, by Paynter) who emulated his own sire when winning the GI H. Allen Jerkens Stakes at Saratoga, will retire to Coolmore America's Ashford Stud to stand alongside his sire following his final start in the GI Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile Saturday, Nov. 2, the farm announced Monday morning. In addition to the Jerkens this summer, the three-year-old won the GIII Tampa Bay Derby and the GIII Dwyer Stakes. Like Practical Joke, he was trained by Chad Brown for Klaravich Stables. “Domestic Product has always been an outstanding prospect who identified himself very early in his works,” said Brown. “After he broke his maiden at Belmont (at two), it was clear he was a serious Kentucky Derby prospect so we put him on that trail. He qualified when winning the Tampa Bay Derby but unfortunately lost a shoe early in the Derby and it didn't work out for him. “Right after the Derby, I told Seth [Klarman of Klaravich Stables] that we were going to try to do the same thing we did with his sire Practical Joke and cut him back in distance on Travers Day. So he had his prep in the Dwyer Stakes, which he won with ease, and going into the Allen Jerkens it was clear that he was going to be the horse to beat with jockey Flavien Prat having no hesitation in choosing him ahead of three others he had ridden on their previous starts. Ultimately, he put in a very brave effort to get the win and nose out a very, very good horse.” Domestic Product won the Jerkens by a neck over the 2-1 favorite, GI Del Mar Futurity winner and GI Woody Stephens runner-up Prince of Monaco (Speightstown). “He's an incredible physical; a really striking, almost black horse with excellent conformation,” Brown said. Said Coolmore Director of Sales Charlie O'Connor, “Practical Joke has been extremely popular with breeders ever since he first arrived here. He has enjoyed terrific success both on the racetrack and in the sales ring and everyone in Ashford is excited to have (Domestic Product) standing along side his sire for 2025.” His stud fee will be set at a later date, the farm said. The post GI Jerkens Winner Domestic Product to Ashford After BC Dirt Mile appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD NEWSLETTER View the full article

Star jockey in box seat to carry on Group One mile dominance as gun galloper continues to step up.View the full article

Boasting a 50 per cent strike rate in tandem this season, the Australian ace and veteran handler look well placed to continue strong form at city circuit.View the full article

Englishman George Rooke is the newest addition to the ever-growing group of international riders in New Zealand. Coming from a small town in Hampshire, Rooke progressed through the well-recognised British Racing School in Newmarket, and under the tutelage of three-time British Champion Jockey and now trainer Richard Hughes, he rode 167 winners and was a dual all-weather (synthetic) champion apprentice. “I lived in a small town called Hook just off the M3, and I got into pony club and eventing side of things first,” Rooke said. “We heard about the Newmarket Racing School and I applied for that, and after getting a position there, I did a four-week course before getting a placement with Richard Hughes. “I kept my apprenticeship for four years and it took me that period of time to ride 95 winners, which is the full claim over there.” Rooke also spent time working for an icon of New Zealand equestrian sport, Sir Mark Todd, which ultimately led to an opportunity to ply his trade on the other side of the world. “I worked for Sir Mark Todd in England as well, he mentioned to me about coming to New Zealand and he’s good friends with Roger James,” Rooke said. “It all worked out from there, Rodney Schick (Windsor Park Stud principal) rang me and explained all of the details, and now I’m here. I’m staying at one of his farms down the road from Windsor Park Stud. “I do trackwork mostly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, then trials and jump-outs on Tuesdays. On my days off, I’ve been getting in the gym and getting my racing gear ready for the next meeting. “I’ve been riding for Roger James, Andrew Forsman and Stephen Marsh over the past week, I’m hoping to expand that as I stay here longer.” The 23-year-old made his Kiwi race riding debut at Taupo last Friday, with a second placing aboard Camacho his best result of his five rides, giving him a good insight into the style of racing in New Zealand. “The horses are very much similar, how they are trained is slightly different to the UK, but the races are still tactical, you’ve got to be in the right position and have your wits about you,” he said. “I haven’t ridden on the polytrack here yet, but in England, everything is a lot sharper and happens pretty quickly. It’s very dependent on the weather, similar to the grass, if it’s warm it runs a bit deeper, whereas in the cold, it tightens up and runs quicker.” Rooke has a pair of Listed winners to his name and has ridden twice at Group Two level, with a shot at a Group One his goal in the future. “I would love to ride a Group One, that’s my biggest aim while I’m here,” he said. “Everything else that comes with it is a bonus really, gaining more experience will be great so I’m looking forward to it. “I don’t really have a time limit, I’ll just see how I go.” View the full article

Mark Baker anticipated Nikau Spur would be a horse that would only improve with time, and he has continued to be proven correct as the evergreen galloper collected the Listed Queensland Cup (2400m) at Eagle Farm on Saturday. In the care of Toowoomba trainers Corey and Kylie Geran, Nikau Spur has won five races in the past 18 months, capped off with an impressive effort in the staying feature, much to the delight of his former owner in Baker. “When he got shuffled back to last on the turn, I thought he’d only be a hope to run a place, but the trainers have done a great job with him and he really attacked the line,” Baker said. “He finished off the race very well. “It’s hard to win a mid-week maiden race, let alone a stakes race in Australia, so it’s always great to see your horses performing at that level. “It’s great for the staff and especially when you own the mare and a share in the stallion.” The Hallmark Stud principal bred Nikau Spur alongside the Springvale Family Trust, out of the first crop of foals by successful Rich Hill Stud sire Proisir. After failing to meet his $40,000 reserve at the 2018 Karaka Yearling Sales, Nikau Spur was leased to Stratford trainer Rosie Buchanan, who prepared him to finish third in his only New Zealand start, before the gelding was privately sold through Ciaron Maher’s bloodstock agent Will Bourne. “He was a terrific bodied horse with a terrific action as a yearling, but he was a little bit offset through his knees, which put a few people off,” Baker said. “He was also a horse that was going to take a little bit of time, and factors like that make it a little bit harder to sell in first-crop Proisir’s, as the stallion hadn’t set the world on fire yet. “We took him home and leased him to Rosie Buchanan, she did a great job with him.” Nikau Spur was the second foal out of Sarsarun, a daughter of Ustinov who won seven races including the Listed Karaka Classic (1600m). The mare returned to Proisir on five further occasions and produced two fillies, with the most recent selling to Maher for $230,000 at Karaka 2023. “We’ve had this mare for a few years now, this breeding game is certainly a long one,” Baker said. “We remember her racing, she was tough and always tried really hard, and being a stakes winner made her have huge appeal. “She was a good size and scope for a broodmare and very correct. “It was an old Rodmor Stud family, going back a fair way. You can’t beat having progeny out of these great old families, they can go through quiet periods, but in the end they always stand by you.” This breeding season, Sarsarun has visited Cambridge Stud stallion Sword Of State, a young sire that Baker has plenty of time for. “She’s back in foal to Sword Of State, we bred from her with Robert and Leone Stewart from Wanaka, so I’m delighted for them,” he said. “I have a lot of time for Sword Of State, he suited her physically which was the main thing, and seeing his first progeny and knowing what a very fast horse he was with a great page, we are big fans of his.” View the full article

Tony Gollan has long-hailed Antino as the best horse he has put a saddle on and those convictions were well and truly proved correct when the striking near-black galloper trounced his rivals in Saturday’s Gr.1 Toorak Handicap (1600m). The Queensland conditioner will now stick to his original plan of getting the son of Redwood to the Gr.1 Hong Kong International Mile (1600m) on December 8, although the path to the race has altered slightly. The Gr.1 Champions Mile (1600m) at Flemington on November 9 in now the likely stepping stone rather than the Gr.1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes (1400m) a week later. “We’ve been thinking about Hong Kong for a year, it’s not an afterthought,” Gollan told Radio TAB. “Obviously, the connections are from there and it would be a great thrill to have a horse that they own and purchased, come back and actually race for them on their doorstep. “It’s unlikely when you buy a horse like this, it was ever going to happen. And to be able to get back there and race on their biggest day with its limitation from the club, it’s probably too good an offer for us not to have a good look at. “That’s the plan now. But he’s got to get through Flemington yet (Champion Mile). “It’s eight weeks to Hong Kong and he’s got to run a mile against the best milers up there that they have to offer. “I can’t just sit idle for eight weeks and go there into a mile race like that. I think running in the Champions Mile on the way through is the right thing to do.” Antino was rated 108 heading into Saturday’s Handicap, but after a near seven length demolition job weight-for-age racing is now on the agenda, with a long-term goal next year’s Gr.1 Cox Plate (2040m). Bred by George Kit Ma’s Blossom Trading & Breeding Company Ltd, Antino is by Westbury Stud stallion Redwood. Out of a full-sister to Group One gallopers Hurrah and Best Gift, Antino’s dam Mahamaya was purchased for just $3,000 in foal to Redwood at the 2018 Karaka May Sale by Logan Salvador on behalf of Ma. Antino was purchased for $27,000 by her Hong Kong owner Jeetu Ramchandani under his New Balance Racing banner at the 2020 New Zealand Bloodstock Ready to Run Sale from the draft of Cheltenham Stables. The six-year-old gelding advanced his record to 11 wins from 21 starts with a further five placings and prizemoney of A$1,668,865. View the full article

A star-studded field lined up for the 2024 Sports Toto Supreme Challenge Cup on Sunday and what a race it turned out to be. The rivalry between Antipodean (NZ) (Derryn) and Golden Pegasus has now been put to bed with a victory that left spectators on the edge of their seats when Antipodean came from a hopeless position to win. The Simon Dunderdale runner had no luck in running from a bad draw ,once again, and had to race wide for the majority of the race. Berry Bliss arguably had the run of the race tracking the leader, Violet, until the top of the straight and had no excuses despite a cheeky effort in second. However, while Berry Bliss was enjoying his smooth run, Antipodean started his move around runners at the 600m switching straight to the outside. He wasn’t even in the picture until the final 200m when all of a sudden R Shafiq aboard the now nine time winner, came swooping past Berry Bliss to take home the honours. Berry Bliss held on to second while Cheval Blanc bounced back to form running on to finish in third. Golden Pegasus could only manage to complete the quartets in fourth. Antipodean certainly has the qualities of being the best horse in Malaysia and is without a doubt a fan favourite amongst the racing fraternity. Racing takes a break from Selangor for two weeks where we’ll back for a double header of racing on the 26th & 27th of October. View the full article

Warmonger (NZ) (War Decree) has fallen from favour with many punters in the lead-up to Saturday’s Gr.1 Caulfield Cup (2400m), but co-trainer Mick Price remains optimistic about his chances in the $5 million event. The Cranbourne trainer is convinced the rise to 2400 metres will bring out the best in the gelding, who he trains in partnership with Michael Kent Jnr. The son of War Decree finished resolutely to grab fourth placing in the Gr.1 Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) first-up but then disappointed when 11th in the Gr.1 Turnbull Stakes (2000m) on October 5. Price was not thrilled with the run but saw enough immediately after the race and since to suggest Warmonger will show his best in what has always been his first major spring target. “I thought he raced a bit dour and I think I underestimated his capacity for fitness, because I thought he was three or four lengths short of where he should be,” Price said. “First-up he was good. Sometimes I can’t tell whether it was second-up syndrome or not, no one can, but I went and checked him about 20 minutes after the race and he had a resting heart rate of about 80. “Now that is way low and I just thought, ‘this horse is fit and ready for a Caulfield Cup’. “So I’m actually tapering off him a little bit. He’s nice and fresh and I think if it rains he’ll come into a bit. He’s ready to go.” Warmonger has had two starts beyond 2000m for a second in the Gr.1 South Australian Derby (2500m) and a 10-1/2-length win in the Gr.1 Queensland Derby (2400m). Warmonger was Caulfield Cup favourite before the Turnbull but is out to as much as $17 on the eve of the final field being known and barrier draw, which will take place at 12.45pm Tuesday. Michael Dee, who has ridden Warmonger at his two runs this campaign, retains the ride with the four-year-old to carry 53.5kg. View the full article

Trainer Dominic Sutton had mixed emotions as he watched his stable star Feroce go within a nose of victory in Saturday’s Gr.1 Caulfield Guineas (1600m) won by Private Life. The son of Super Seth was momentarily held up which was more than enough to cost the rookie trainer a Classic within his first 12 months of training. But on the bright-side there are now lucrative targets in the offing for the smart three-year-old, who could possibly have his next run in the A$500,000 Gr.3 Carbine Club Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on November 2 or the Gr.1 Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) on October 26 at Randwick. “It was mixed emotions to be honest,” Sutton reflected after the race. “I felt like he was there to win and even watching him through the line, he still had a handful of horse. “So yes, while a little frustrated I am super proud of the horse and the team to get him there in such great order. “He’s had a faultless preparation so far and it’s just frustrating to get done by such a small margin.” Sutton said he had been fortunate to have the right people around him as he navigates the business of training after an apprenticeship that included stints with Chris Waller and as Assistant Trainer for Leon and Troy Corstens. “It’s been a good ride so far and I’m very fortunate to have the right team around me,” Sutton said. “When you surround yourself with the right people it makes it a lot easier. You need the horses as well, so to have a horse like him in the barn, he’s obviously got a lot of ability. He’s taken a little bit of time to put it all together. “He got pushed back into a pocket by Rue De Royale and I think in the end that’s what’s cost us between winning and running second.” Feroce was coming off a lead-up fourth in the Gr.3 Guineas Prelude (1400m) and now has a brace of victories and three placings from his seven appearances. Options now include the Gr.1 Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) and the Carbine Club Stakes while connections are also interested in gaining a slot in the $3.5million NZB Kiwi (1500m) at Ellerslie on March 8. As one of ten bonus eligible races, connections share in a $1 million bonus pool should they win the Carbine Club and run top three in the NZB Kiwi. “There’s a few guys in New Zealand that are sniffing around for a slot in the NZB Kiwi so we’ll probably put a circle around that race,” Sutton said. “He’s obviously a gelding so we can chase the prize money with him.” Bred by Pencarrow Stud, Feroce was purchased out of Kilgravin Lodge’s New Zealand Bloodstock Ready to Run Sale draft for $160,000 by Sutton and McKeever Bloodstock last year. Feroce is a son of the unraced O’Reilly mare Corinthia and is a half-brother to the Listed Karaka Classic winner Siracusa and a member of the famed Eight Carat family. View the full article

Promising three-year-old Patch Of Cosmo has continued his winning run of form in Hong Kong. The son of Super Seth had returned from a break last month at Sha Tin to open his account over 1200 metres at his third appearance. On Sunday evening, the Manfred Man-trained representative produced a repeat performance over the course and distance and again in the hands of Luke Ferraris. Patch Of Cosmo was bred by Waikato Stud and purchased by Richard Racing for $70,000 at last year’s New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale and then realised $260,000 when offered by Riversley Park at the Ready to Run Sale, where he was purchased by prominent Hong Kong owner Kin Man Yeung, who races the ‘Patch’ horses. Patch Of Cosmo is the first foal of the Savabeel mare Thee whose dam, the dual stakes winner Thy is a three-quarter sister to the two-time Group 1 winner The Jewel and a half-sister to the Gr.1 1000 Guineas (1600m) winner La Diosa. John Foote secured Thee’s Super Seth colt sold for $170,000 at Karaka earlier this year and the mare has an Ardrossan yearling colt and is due to foal again to the son of Redoute’s Choice. View the full article

Te Akau Racing unshackled exciting filly Stage ‘N’ Screen (NZ) (Ace High) at Seymour on Sunday with a winning debut paving the way for some exciting spring targets. Stage ‘N’ Screen trialled on three occasions on home soil before departing for Australia to prepare for her first race-day appearance, which came in the Go Seymour Maiden Plate (1200m), where she started $2.40 favourite. Michael Dee utilised the filly’s inside barrier draw in the early stages, sitting on the speed at a moderate tempo. On straightening, Stage ‘N’ Screen found a solid turn of foot and lead all the way to the post with plenty left in store. After an interrupted start to her racing career, Walker was pleased to see the daughter of Ace High deliver on her early promise. “She’s been a work in progress, especially around the starting gates, and Julien Welsh and his team at Booralite Park have done a really good job building her confidence in that department,” Walker said. “She showed plenty of ability when trialling in New Zealand, and we had her entered to start last month on the home course at Cranbourne, but a horse slipped over beside her which upset her and she was late scratched. “I think she’s a very promising filly with untapped ability and it’s great for her to get a win on the board at her first start.” Despite the initial hiccup, Stage ‘n’ Screen is now on a path to the Gr.1 Thousand Guineas (1600m) which has been shuffled later in the spring carnival in recent years and will be conducted at Caulfield on November 16 “Stage ‘n’ Screen is on a path towards the Thousand Guineas and she’ll either run in the Vanity Stakes (Gr. 3, 1400m) on Derby Day (2 November) at Flemington, or Melbourne Cup Day (5 November) in the Amanda Elliott Stakes (Listed, 1400m).” Stage ‘N’ Screen was purchased by Te Akau principal David Ellis for $200,000 out of Kiltannon Stables’ draft at the 2023 New Zealand Bloodstock Ready To Run Sales, and she is a half-sister to Australian Group One performer Japanese Emperor. The pair are out of the O’Reilly mare Inthespotlight, along with a filly by Satono Aladdin who fetched $900,000 at this year’s Book 1 Yearling Sale at Karaka to the bid of Guy Mulcaster and Chris Waller. In addition to Stage ‘N’ Screen, Mark Walker also trained Midnight Blue to win the Listed Seymour Cup (1600m) on Sunday, continuing a phenomenal run of form on Australian racecourses for Walker, with his last 11 runners resulting in seven winners, including Bellatrix Star in the Gr.2 Schillaci Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield on Saturday. View the full article

Taranaki horseman Aidan Schumacher has put his faith in the family of his foundation broodmare Mini Mandy over the last few decades, and his loyalty paid off in a big way on Saturday when Spencer took out the Gr.3 Valley D’Vine Restaurant Spring Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa. The Derryn gelding had been a revelation over winter, posting three wins and a runner-up result in the Listed Opunake Cup (1400m), and went one better on Saturday, scoring by 1-1/4 lengths over Geriatrix in the feature sprint. Schumacher, who bred and owns the gelding, was rapt to get the win, but was even more excited to see his former pupil Erin Hocquard score her first Group win as a trainer. “It was a great thrill to get that win,” he said. “He has been in work for a fair while, but Erin has done a great job and he has been racing well. It is very pleasing that she got the Group win. “Erin came and worked for me and I think she stayed here for about four or five years, and she learned to ride with me. I was just an owner-trainer and the first year she started we won five races and it progressed from there. “She moved down to John Boon’s at Waverley because she wanted to get a bit closer to home, she’s from Palmerston North. When John Boon pulled out of training, she took over his property and I have been supporting her since then. “She helps me out at times when I have had some work to do here. She comes and does the foals, she has been a great helper.” Spencer is a rising star, and Schumacher is hopeful he can reach the same lofty heights as his predecessor Aimee Jay, who Schumacher trained to Group One success in the Easter Handicap. “We started off with two broodmares. One was Mini Mandy, who is a mare we got off Maurice Campbell,” Schumacher said. “We have stuck with the two families, and they are both going well. Aimee Jay has been the best one so far, and this one (Spencer) has come along now. “Aimee Jay was a tough horse. She had six races in 42 days and she won four of them. One of them was a Group One and another was a Group Two.” Schumacher said Spencer has inherited that toughness, which has been shown by his success over a long preparation. “Darcistar (dam) was a tough horse and I think it is coming out in Spencer now, it is a tough breed.” Spencer is the first foal out of the unraced Darci Brahma mare Darcistar, who has subsequently left a three-year-old filly and yearling colt by former Grangewilliam Stud stallion Wyndspelle. “Erin has got the filly, and the colt is still at home,” Schumacher said. “The filly will come back into work shortly and hopefully she can be just as good (as Spencer).” Darcistar wasn’t served last year but has returned to Derryn off the back of Spencer’s success. “She was served about 10 days ago and hopefully we can get another colt,” Schumacher said. While Spencer has been up for a long time, Schumacher said he may have one more run this preparation in the Gr.3 Gee & Hicton Funeral Directors Thompson Handicap (1600m) at Trentham later this month. “There is the Thompson down at Trentham,” Schumacher said. “I ran that past Erin last night and she said the horse has come through the race well, but there is no guarantee yet, it is up to her.” View the full article

What Kilmore Races Where Kilmore Racing Club – East St, Kilmore VIC 3764 When Tuesday, October 15, 2024 First Race 1:30pm AEDT Visit Dabble For the first time since November 26 last year, racing in Victoria heads to the Kilmore Racing Club on Tuesday afternoon for a competitive eight-race meeting. Perfect springs conditions above will match perfectly with the Good 4 rated track, whilst the rail will stick to its true position. The Kilmore races are set to commence at 1:30pm AEDT. Best Bet at Kilmore: She’s Got Pizzazz Returning from a four-month spell, She’s Got Pizzazz has found the right race to break maiden ranks in. The three-year-old filly did not miss the top three in her three starts as a juvenile earlier in the year, and was always up on speed, giving a bold sight. The Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman-trained filly gets the services of Blake Shinn again, and from barrier nine if the pair land outside lead inside the first 200m, She’s Got Pizzazz should prove too slick in the opener. Best Bet Race 1 – #11 She’s Got Pizzazz (9) 3yo Filly | T: Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman | J: Blake Shinn (57kg) Bet with Neds Next Best at Kilmore: Perfectly Good Perfectly Good broke maiden ranks in fine style at Wagga on September 30 when jumping cleanly from the barriers and leading throughout, going on to score by 4.5 lengths. The three-year-old gelding gains the services of Blake Shinn on Tuesday, and aided by drawing barrier two, the pair will look to replicate what the son of Super Seth produced last time out. As long as he is not forced to use too many carrots in order to hold the rail, Perfectly Good will prove too hard to gun down once again. Next Best Race 6 – #12 Perfectly Good (2) 3yo Gelding | T: Ben, Will & JD Hayes | J: Blake Shinn (57kg) Bet with Playup Best Value at Kilmore: Sports Choice Andrew Homann’s Sports Choice caught the eye when hitting the line strongly over 1000m on return from a six-month spell. The six-year-old mare looks like she will finally appreciate stepping up to the 1100m, a trip she is yet to run top three at in five goes. Luke Cartwright hops on board claiming 2kg, getting her in nicely with just 56.5kg on her back. With plenty of speed drawn underneath, Sports Choice will trail a hot speed throughout, and with a similar finish to what she produced fresh, she looks a great price with horse racing bookmakers. Best Value Race 7 – #10 Sports Choice (7) 6yo Mare | T: Andrew Homann | J: Luke Cartwright (a2) (58.5kg) Bet with Picklebet Tuesday quaddie tips for Kilmore Kilmore quadrella selections Tuesday, October 15, 2024 5-6-8-10 1-3-12 1-5-8-10 4-7-11-13 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

General Due to the starter having to leave the course following race 5 at Ascot Park 9 October, Stipendiary Steward V Munro was appointed as the starter for the remaining races in line with GRNZ rule 19.3(j). The post 7-13 October 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Driver Penalties A Butt | NZ Metropolitan 11 October; use of whip; suspended 20 – 21 October inclusive. K Newman | NZ Metropolitan 11 October; use of whip; suspended 12 – 18 October inclusive. J Dickie | NZ Metropolitan 11 October; contacting track marker; fined $100. S Phelan | NZ Metropolitan 11 October; contacted track marker; fined $100. B Butt | NZ Metropolitan 11 October; breach of push out rule; fined $300. S Hill | Oamaru 13 September; careless driving; suspended 19-23 October inclusive. Trainer Penalty M House | NZ Metropolitan 9 October; late notification of gear changes; fined $50. Horse Penalties RAKERO SCOTTY | Waikato 8 October; broke resulting in interference; must complete trial. HEZASWEETIE | Auckland 11 October; broke in running; must complete trial. Protests ASTERIA LAVRA | Waikato 8 October; lapped on; disqualified. WHAT THE BELL | Northern Southland 10 October; lapped on; disqualified. The post 7-13 October 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article