Wandering Eyes

Trainer Mark Walker achieved another notable milestone when Age of Discovery (NZ) (Savabeel) bolted home in the Rangiora New World Guineas Trial (1400m) at Riccarton. The win was victory number 2000 for Walker in a stellar career that has seen him dominate in New Zealand and Singapore for Te Akau Racing whilst he is also quickly establishing his presence for the Te Akau team from their Cranbourne base in Australia. One of the hallmarks of Walkers mentorship has been his uncanny ability with the younger horses and Age Of Discovery looks another potential topliner in the making. Successful on debut at the venue over 1200m a fortnight again, Age Of Discovery was backed off the board on this occasion, starting at $1.30 on the tote and he never gave his multitude of supporters a worry as he made it two wins from just two starts. Allowed to find his feet and a good rhythm early in the piece by rider Wiremu Pinn, the son of Savabeel looked to be travelling sweetly as Pinn angled him into the clear from a rearward position approaching the home turn. Once he balanced up Age Of Discovery swept to the front at the 200m and eased to the line a length and a half to the good of Cloche and Simsala who chased bravely but to no avail. Walker, who prepares the colt with co-trainer Sam Bergerson, was pleased with the performance of both horse and rider as he looks ahead to bigger targets including a possible tilt at the Gr.1 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton on 9 November. “Dave (Ellis) bought him out of Windsor Park’s draft and we’ve always thought quite a bit of him,” Walker said. “First prep, you’re always a bit mindful that they have to get through the early races, but you’d think he’d love a mile here. “Wiremu (Pinn) rode him confidently and he’s riding really well. We’ve taken him under our wing and if we can keep him on the straight and narrow he’s as good as any rider going around. “Our theory is that the more practice he (Age Of Discovery) has here at Riccarton the better, so we’ll probably come back here for the War Decree (Gr.3, 1600m) at the end of October. “He’s a really exciting colt and we’ve got him on the right track towards the 2000 Guineas. It was pleasing, just the way he did it today, to see him relax beautifully and really attack the line.” Not one to trumpet his achievements Walker has won 11 Champion Trainer titles, trained 36 Group One winners, recorded his 1000th domestic win in 2022, the same year in which he recorded the fastest 100 wins and NZ record 203 wins in a season. To date, he has trained 1279 wins in New Zealand, 684 in Singapore, and 37 following victory overnight by Bellatrix Star (Star Witness) in the Scarborough Stakes (Gr. 3, 1200m) at Moonee Valley. “I’m very thankful to have had the opportunities that I’ve had over the years. I’m still quite young (53), plenty of life left in me and I’m looking forward to training the next thousand,” he said. Bred by Windsor Park Stud from their Fastnet Rock mare Bayrock, Age Of Discovery was a $625,000 purchase by Te Akau Racing boss David Ellis from their Book 1 draft at Karaka in 2023. He is the younger brother of Australian stakes winner Hindaam (NZ) (Savabeel) while Gr.1 Coolmore Stakes (1200m) and Gr.1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes (1200m) winner Merchant Navy features in his extended pedigree. View the full article

Zac Lloyd steers Makarena to victory in the Group 2 Golden Pendant. Photo: Bradleyphotos.com.au Team Hawkes and Zac Lloyd have combined to claim the Group 2 Golden Pendant (1400m) at Rosehill on Saturday afternoon, with Makarena ($4.60) holding off the fast-finishing Amelia’s Jewel ($2.70) to score an impressive second-up victory. The daughter of Snitzel put the writing on the wall first-up in the Group 2 Sheraco Stakes (1200m) on September 14, being forced to cart up a talented list of fillies and mares before fading to finish 2.4 lengths away. Lloyd was happy to adopt similar tactics, this time electing to sit outside the leader as Makarena and Tropical Quall ($10.00) pressed forward to go along at a steady tempo throughout the 1400m journey. Amelia’s Jewel had no excuses lobbing into the one-one, while Semana ($3.00) shocked most punters by being dragged back towards the rear of the field under Dylan Gibbons. The race turned into a sit-and-sprint as Makarena made the first move turning for home, kicking off the bend to maintain an unassailable margin as only Amelia’s Jewel and Arctic Glamour ($9.50) made any significant inroads in the concluding stages. 2024 Group 2 Golden Pendant Replay – Makarena It was well-deserved win for the consistent four-year-old as Michael Hawkes spoke post-race about the victory and the possibilities throughout the campaign. “She showed her true colours today,” said Hawkes. “It was all about really just trying to get her in a rhythm. Last start, nothing really went right for her, she just wanted to chase, the horse went off out in front and nothing went to plan. “But today was a different race, 1400m, Zac (Lloyd) got her into a beautiful rhythm and she travelled well. “She’s still learning. She got to the front and had a bit of a look around but when it counted, Zac just gave her a little nudge and away she went. “She is only second-up today so she is in for a really nice prep. She has got that Group win under her belt that we wanted and we’ve always had a really high opinion of her. “The Invitation is there, Golden Eagle. It’s all there. There’s no rush.” Zac Lloyd spoke post-race and was delighted with the performance as well. “Really good,” said Lloyd. “It’s just good to have her back. “It’s been Michael and Clare’s birthday this week, so extra special win for them. They’ve always been great supporters of mine since I moved to Sydney and to repay them with wins like this is very fitting. “I was very happy with the way she was parading. Last prep she was a bit hot, a bit fizzy, and that showed in her races. She used to over-race a bit whereas today she was very tractable. “I was able to get a slipstream off Tropical Squall for a bit and then at the 600m I popped out. And I felt like the winner the whole way. She really handled that race well and dictated it.” Makarena is now a $21 chance with horse racing bookmakers for the Golden Eagle (1500m) on November 2. Horse racing news View the full article

First Light spaced his rivals in the Group 3 Colin Stephen Quality. Photo: RacingNSW The Chris Waller-trained First Light ($4.40) has booked his ticket to the Group 1 Metropolitan Handicap (2400m) after a dominant display in the Group 3 Colin Stephen Quality (2400m) at Rosehill on Saturday afternoon. It was a big step-up in grade for the son of Dubawi after contest BM78 company last time out, however, he seemed to relish the Soft 6 conditions on offer as he picked up his first win at Rosehill at start 12. Tommy Berry was happy to bide his time at the rear of the field, sitting last amongst the small field of seven throughout the journey, as James McDonald and Changingoftheguard ($5.00) strode to the front ticking over some moderate sectionals. The race didn’t change complexion in the middle stages, with Canberra Legend ($9.00) sitting to his outside, while Campaldino ($4.80) and well-supported favourite Strathtay ($3.20) were stalking every step of the way. When asked for an effort in the final 600m, First Light slowly started to build the revs, and there was only one horse you wanted to be on as the six-year-old bound clear to score by 3.1 lengths, leaving Changingoftheguard and Strathtay to fight out the minor placings. 2024 Group 3 Colin Stephen Quality Replay – First Light Chris Waller was on course to represent the stable and confirmed the major possibility of First Light backing up into next Saturday’s Group 1 staying feature. “It was an exciting win,” said Waller. “Tommy just let him do his own thing, flopped out of the barriers, minded his own business and joined in at the top of the straight. And he came away for a really good win. “We are (well represented in the Metrop) but it’s a Group One race so I’ll have a talk to Mrs Rupert and her team and see what they’ve got to say. “They bred this horse in England and sent him out, and I’m sure it would mean a lot to them, a Group win and a Group One placing or a win (in The Metrop) wouldn’t be the worst thing. “We’ve found in the past, backing horses up, it’s not always the worst thing in a staying race, they need to be fit. He can go home and won’t have to do any more galloping, he’s had his gallop today.” Tommy Berry was confident thanks to the guidance of Chirs Waller pre-race and credited his mounts adaptability to get through conditions. “He was (dominant),” said Berry. “I had a really good feeling about him today on the back-up. Chris just wrapped up his preparation perfectly and I know he really likes wet ground. I said to Chris before the race, I said ‘I just would have loved it to be a bit softer’, and he goes, ‘he’ll be right’. “So that gave me the confidence to ride him like I usually do and forget about the first half of the race, and when he’s in a field where it’s not that big and he doesn’t have as much ground to make up, he’s quite dynamic.” First Light is now a $15.00 chance with horse racing bookmakers in the Metropolitan Handicap (2400m) on October 5. Horse racing news View the full article

Moonee Valley witnessed a sensational upset on Friday under the lights with the Ciaron Maher-trained Southport Tycoon securing a thrilling final stride success over his stablemate Growing Empire in the Ladbrokes Manikato Stakes 2024. The $2 million Group 1 Ladbrokes Manikato Stakes (1200m) looked like it would go the way of the punters with the […] The post Southport Tycoon Steals 2024 Manikato Stakes Win at The Valley appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

The Paul Gardner-trained Red Wraith heading for victory on Darwin Cup Day. Picture: Darwin Turf Club The bookies couldn’t split them during the week, and little should separate Red Wraith and Garrucha in the feature race at Alice Springs on Sunday. Both are last start winners, with Paul Gardner’s Red Wraith – the early $2.80 favourite with horse racing bookmakers – and Dan Morgan’s Garrucha ($2.90) squaring off in a five-horse field over 1100m (BM76) at Pioneer Park. Ray Viney’s Kickatorp ($4.20), Greg Connor’s Flying Start ($7.50) and Lisa Whittle’s Lunar Solar ($12) complete the field. It might well be a small field, but it’s an exceptional field and Gardner agrees Red Wraith, who boasts seven wins and five minor placings from 15 Alice Springs starts, will have to be at his best. The five-year-old gelding impressed three weeks ago when he led early over 1200m (BM76) before extending his advantage at the 600m to overcome Flying Start by 3.8 lengths. Red Wraith ($1.75 fav) carried 56kg with local apprentice Lek Maloney in the saddle, but he will lump an extra 3kg on Sunday with Gardner booking Darwin jockey Adam Nicholls. “He took a little while to get going in Darwin, I just think he didn’t handle the track to start with and showed his true form on Cup Day,” Gardner said. “He needs to roll along, that’s his pattern because once you take hold of him he doesn’t gallop freely. “He doesn’t have to lead, but he’s got to be handy. “It was a good win last start, he went well, but before that Greg’s horse beat him. “Flying Start goes good and is going to be hard to beat.” Garrucha, a five-year-old gelding, has had five starts for Morgan since transferring from the stable of former Alice Springs trainer Russell Bell earlier this year. The son of Street Boss managed three wins and a second before pinging the gates two weeks ago and blitzing his rivals by 5.8 lengths over 1000m (0-70) after returning from a four-month spell. “Dan’s horse is an up and coming sprinter – his form is second to none,” Gardner said. “Garrucha will run on the pace and he keeps charging to the line. “Since Dan has taken over the horse his form has been really good, he’s done nothing wrong. “There are other horses in the race that go well too and there’s no reason why one of them couldn’t win.” Nicholls, faultless aboard Red Wraith on Darwin Cup Day, partnered the horse last October when he won his first Alice Springs race following his arrival from South Australia. Fellow Top End jockey Sonja Logan, who has also had success aboard Red Wraith in the past, retains the ride on Garrucha (57kg) on Sunday. Horse racing news View the full article

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“Zurdo” Estrada earned his nickname back when he was a kid in Mexico running up and down the soccer field. He would always kick the ball with his left foot so everyone called him Zurdo, the term word for left-handed. The nickname stuck and even still today, it's what everyone knows him as on the Santa Anita backside. Estrada began working as a hot walker at Bay Meadows Racetrack in San Mateo, California in 1989. He instantly fell in love with the sport and after a few short months, made his way up to becoming a groom. Over the years since, he has taken on a handful of jobs outside of the industry only to catch a glimpse of a horse race on television and quickly return to racing. “I love the horses,” Estrada said with a smile and a shrug. “When I stay with the horses, I feel relaxed. Now it has been 30 years. All my life, I've loved horses.” Estrada has worked for trainers like Mark Glatt, James Cassidy and Bobby Frankel. During his time with Frankel, he became a Breeders' Cup-winning groom when Intercontinental (GB) (Danehill) claimed the 2005 GI Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Turf. About 10 years ago, Estrada was forced to step away from the track when he had to have back surgery. He went back to his home in Mexico, but was miserable being away from the animals he loved. Zurdo Estrada spends time with Sweet Azteca after morning training | Katie Petrunyak “When I was there, there was no work for me because I needed to keep my back relaxed and stay strong so I could come back,” Estrada recalled. “The doctor told me I needed a couple of years to relax.” After three years, Estrada returned to California and took a job as a hot walker for Chief Stipe O'Neill. The first horse assigned to him was Nyquist (Uncle Mo), a 3-year-old colt who had won the 2015 GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile the year prior. One of Estrada's fondest memories came just after his return to racing when Nyquist won the GI Kentucky Derby. “When you have a horse in a big race like that, you feel your blood rushing and your heart beating,” said Estrada. “It's exciting. Also during his time with O'Neill, Estrada was the groom of 2017 GII Blue Grass Stakes winner Irap (Tiznow). Last year, Estrada began working for trainer Michael McCarthy. He quickly developed a soft spot for one of his first charges, a big, grey filly named Sweet Azteca (Sharp Azteca). Estrada said that for the most part, the filly's personality matches her name, but she still has a bit of a sassy side. “If you are going to work with her all day, you need a little piece of carrot to give her and she's happy,” Estrada shared with a smile. “If you don't give her anything, she'll try to push you away. But I still love her.” Sweet Azteca broke her maiden on debut as a 3-year-old last year. This year, after a third-place placing in the GIII Las Flores S., the homebred for Pamela Ziebarth has dominated throughout California. Her win in the GI Beholder Mile Stakes over MGISW Adare Manor (Uncle Mo) has been Estrada's favorite victory to date, but she has also reeled off wins in the GII Great Lady M Stakes, where she set a new track record, and in her most recent start, the GIII Rancho Bernardo Handicap. Estrada said that with every win, the speedy filly's competitiveness seems to grow. “In the morning she always goes in the first set,” he explained. “She used to go in the second or third set but would start getting nervous. If she goes early, she is relaxed for the day.” Sweet Azteca is now pointing toward the GIII Chillingworth Stakes on Oct. 5. going 6 ½ furlongs. Trainer Michael McCarthy has an eye toward the GI Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Sprint for his star trainee. “When he told me she was going to the Breeders' Cup, I started working a little bit more with her, putting more attention into every piece of her,” said Estrada proudly. Estrada lives above the stable at Santa Anita and quite literally lives and breathes racing. Throughout his life, the horseman has learned that he is most content when he is around horses, so he plans to continue his role as a groom for as long as he can. He said the best part of his day is when he spends time with each of his horses after training has wrapped up for the morning. All is quiet and he can enjoy an afternoon spent in good company. “I try to finish a little late because I don't want to stay in my room or go outside,” he said. “I want to stay with the horses. I take like 25 or 30 minutes with each horse inside the stall, working and massaging and playing with them. I might work all day, but it's much better for me.” The post Breeders’ Cup Connections: “Zurdo” Estrada Happiest With His Horses appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Apprentice jockey Micah Husbands guided The Dove Rules (Bucchero) to victory in Friday's Race 8 feature at Gulfstream Park to earn his first career win in the U.S. A winner of 11 races in Canada, the 21-year-old native of Barbados is the nephew of eight-time Sovereign Award-winning jockey Patrick Husbands. “It's a thrill, a dream come true. I grew up watching races here, watching Joel Rosario, Mike Smith, Johnny Velazquez,” said Husbands, who closed from well off the pace to prevail over favored American of Course aboard the Saffie Joseph Jr.-trained The Dove Rules. Joseph, also from Barbados, provided Husbands with his first U.S. mount, Clay Soldier (Bucchero), who finished third in the previous race. The seven-pound apprentice, whose late father Fazal Razack rode in Trinidad, ventured to Canada when he was 15 and was eventually adopted by his uncle Patrick to hasten the process of becoming a Canadian citizen. He rode in only 22 races between July 3, 2022 and July 28, 2022, winning aboard his first and final mounts, before his student visa expired and he was not allowed on the grounds of Woodbine until the citizenship process was completed. Husbands, who galloped horses on trainer Kevin Attard's farm during that period, returned to race-riding at Woodbine this August following a two-year hiatus. He rode seven winners from 47 mounts between Woodbine and Fort Erie. The Dove Rules (inside), with @micah_husbands, reaches the wire first in race 8. #GulfstreamPark #SunshineMeet pic.twitter.com/spi8v8HDWc — Gulfstream Park (@GulfstreamPark) September 27, 2024 The post Apprentice Micah Husbands Notches First U.S. Win At Gulfstream appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

4th-CD, $120K, Msw, 2yo, 6f, 7:26 p.m. ET. Well-bred MISCHIEVOUS TIME (Not This Time) makes his first start for trainer Steve Asmussen. The Whisper Hill homebred is from unraced dam Daisy Mason (Orientate), who Mandy Pope and Gainesway acquired for $475,000 during the Keeneland November Sale while Mischievous Time was in-utero. This dam is herself out of Broodmare of the Year Leslie's Lady (Tricky Creek) who prolifically produced all-conquering sire Into Mischief (Harlan's Holiday), current sire Mendelssohn (Scat Daddy) and the multiple Eclipse winning Beholder (Henny Hughes). Also set for his unveiling is Vermelho (Constitution), who was bred by Bobby Flay and taken home for $450,000 at Keeneland September by Belladona Racing. Sent to Cherie DeVaux, the colt is a half-brother to MGSW Lone Rock (Majestic Warrior) and GSW Gerrymander (Into Mischief), while his extended female family includes Hard Not to Like (Hard Spun). Trained by Bill Mott, Juddmonte homebred Atlal (Quality Road) is the first registered foal for his unraced dam Atheer (Maibu Moon). She is part of the line from champion older mare Close Hatches (First Defence). TJCIS PPS The post Saturday Racing Insights: Well-Connected Not This Time Colt Clocks In At Churchill Downs appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The depth of this season's Cheveley Park Stakes (G1) for 2-year-old fillies Sept. 28 at Newmarket is poles apart from the Middle Park Stakes (G1) for colts. View the full article

The talented Fort Bragg, third in the Santa Anita Sprint Championship (G2) as a 3-year-old, makes his long-awaited 2024 debut in the same race as a bigger and stronger 4-year-old.View the full article

Four-year-old Flying Connection faces 3-year-olds Sugar Fish and Nothing Like You plus three older runners in the 1 1/16-mile Santa Anita race for distaffers.View the full article

Group 1-placed Gamestop (Ire) (Lope De Vega {Ire}) will stand at Haras du Taillis next season, Jour de Galop reported on Friday. A fee will be announced at a later date. The Wertheimer et Frere homebred won his debut for Christophe Ferland and was third in the G3 Prix La Rochette and second in the G1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at two. A winner from two through four, the son of Your Game (Fr) (Montjeu {Ire})'s current record is 11-2-1-2 and he has $138,608 in earnings. He is a half-brother to the stakes-placed Parafection (Ire) (Mastercraftsman {Ire}) and the Listed Prix Lyphard hero Yoozuna (Ire) (Kizuna {Jpn}). Second dam is the stakes winner and GIII Monrovia Handicap second Polygreen (Fr) (Green Tune), herself the dam of Group 1 winner Polydream (Ire) (Oasis Dream {GB}). The post Gamestop To Stand At Haras Du Taillis appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Today 14th November in horse racing news history From the extensive Horse Betting news archives we present the all the thoroughbred racing action in Australian and overseas racing news in history. Delve in and enjoy our walk back in horse racing time. New Zealand horse racing news 11 months ago Durrant leading tangerine charge at Riccarton Hunter Durrant is enjoying being back at the helm of Te Akau Racing’s Riccarton barn as the tangerine and blue … Read More Horse Racing Tips 11 months ago The Follow Files: Who were the Melbourne Cup Carnival standouts? In this week’s Follow Files, we have focused on three horses that are worth backing next preparation after impressive Melbourne … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 11 months ago Conditions suit Mali Ston in Coupland’s Mile bid Mali Ston will have several factors in his favour when he chases a comeback victory at Riccarton in the feature … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 11 months ago Christmas has come early for Lance Robinson Christmas has come early for Lance Robinson with the arrival of New Zealand Cup Week, as the Riccarton trainer looks … Read More Horse Racing Tips 11 months ago Today’s horse racing tips & best bets | November 14, 2023 Two horse racing meetings are scheduled around Australia today. See the top tips and quaddie selections for free here at … Read More Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago Sandown Lakeside best bets & quaddie tips | November 16, 2022 Racing returns to the Sandown Racecourse on the Lakeside track this week with a very competitive eight-race program. See our … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 2 years ago Double Cup delight for Myers Kevin Myers’ stable successfully defended its crown in the Group 3 New Zealand Cup (3200m) with rising staying star Aljay … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 2 years ago Kirkland Buoyant after Stewards win Sabin Kirkland was in a buoyant mood at Riccarton on Monday after his gelding Buoyant comfortably took out the Group … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 2 years ago Pre-race drama no barrier for Legarto in 1000 Guineas There was drama aplenty around Legarto’s triumph in Monday’s Group 1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton on Monday … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 2 years ago Preferment filly brings smile to Ryan’s face Trainers Gerald Ryan and Sterling Alexiou believe Preferment filly Prefer To Smile has a bright future instore after her two … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 2 years ago Poser provides special start to big week for Pertab With his second Ready to Run Sale draft about to go through the Karaka sale ring, Matamata horseman Kurtis Pertab … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 2 years ago Family Ties provides timely RTR reminder Three-year-old filly Family Ties capitalised on a patient ride by champion apprentice Joe Kamaruddin to win the Transport/Hatuma Lime 3YO … Read More Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago Tuesday’s Newcastle racing tips & quaddie | November 15, 2022 Provincial racing heads to the Hunter once again on Tuesday afternoon for a competitive eight-race card out of Newcastle. See … Read More Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago Today’s horse racing tips & best bets | November 14, 2022 Two horse racing meetings are scheduled around Australia today. See the top tips, best odds and quaddie selections for free … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 2 years ago Zackey makes instant impact Newly arrived South African jockey Craig Zackey has made an immediate impact in New Zealand. The talented 27-year-old arrived just … Read More Horse Racing Tips 3 years ago Today’s horse racing tips & best bets | November 14, 2021 Seven horse racing meetings are scheduled around the country today. See the top tips, best odds and quaddie selections here … Read More Horse Racing Tips 3 years ago Bairnsdale betting tips, quaddie picks & value bets | 15/11/2021 HorseBetting.com.au brings you the Bairnsdale racing preview for Monday, November 15, with all the top tips, value bets, best odds … Read More Horse Racing Tips 3 years ago Donald Cup Day preview & best bets | Sunday, November 14 The Donald Cup is the feature event at Donald Racecourse on Sunday afternoon, and HorseBetting’s Victorian form analyst brings you … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Sweet Deal Wins $1 Million The Hunter The decision to bypass a stakes race in Sydney due to a wet track paid dividends when Sweet Deal raced … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Kah’s Ride Closer To Perfect Than Sound A mid-race move from Jamie Kah landed former German stayer Sound his first Australian win in the Zipping Classic for … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Berry Says The Elanora Has Derby Potential Trainer Chris Waller might have unearthed an up-and-coming horse for the autumn in Newcastle Spring Stakes winner The Elanora … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Carif Gets Two-Mile Consolation In Cup Peter Snowden originally set Carif for the Melbourne Cup but he was content with a Listed Sandown Cup win on … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Minervini Celebrates Super Local Win Mark Minervini is keen to back up Super at the showcase Kembla Grange meeting after he brought up a hat-trick … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Wilde Does It Again In Sandown Guineas The Symon Wilde-trained Allibor broke his maiden status in style with a Group Two victory in the Sandown Guineas, aided … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Kemalpasa Proves Too Hard To Get Past Tough Adelaide sprinter Kemalpasa again proved too good for Order Of Command when he relegated that horse to second for … Read More Australia horse racing news 4 years ago Sliders Gives Godolphin A Juvenile Double Well-bred filly Sliders has made a winning debut at Newcastle and will go into the mix to join Godolphin’s team … Read More Horse Racing Tips 4 years ago Toowoomba Horse Racing Tips | Saturday 14th November 2020 HorseBetting.com.au brings you the best odds, value bets and quaddie numbers for Saturday’s race meeting at Toowoomba in Queensland, Australia … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news 4 years ago O’Sullivan and Callan Band together for Panasonic Cup assault Paul O’Sullivan and Neil Callan combined for a double at Happy Valley’s latest midweek fixture and the pair link again … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 4 years ago Impressive juvenile winner sidelined Promising juvenile Wakiri was backed into $1.10 favouritism for the McIntosh Cranes/Team DH. Inter Building LTD 2YO (1000m) at Awapuni … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 4 years ago Gibbs in search of NZ Cup with promising stayer Ruakaka trainer Chris Gibbs is hoping a meticulously planned campaign for progressive stayer Dragon Storm will pay dividends at Riccarton … Read More Australia horse racing news, United Kingdom Horse Racing News 5 years ago Appleby with two strong chances at Sandown English trainer Charlie Appleby has only had one starter in Melbourne this spring but could end the carnival on a … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Lees weighing up options for Miss Fabulass After failing to make the cut for The Hunter then drawing wide in a support race, Miss Fabulass is unlikely … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Ventura Storm to back up in Group 2 Zipping Co-trainer Tom Dabernig says Ventura Storm has been racing consistently this spring and hopes he can figure in the finish … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago WA moves to improve racehorse welfare The horse racing industry must aim to rehome all healthy and behaviourally sound thoroughbreds and standardbreds under a new ‘rule … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Racing NSW chair slams ‘unfair’ ABC expose Racing NSW chairman Russell Balding has written a detailed letter of complaint to the ABC over their two-year investigation into … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Locals chase inaugural $1 million Hunter Three Novacastrian trainers will chase first prize in the $1 million The Hunter at Newcastle, led by Kris Lees who … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Summoned Stakes the spring aim for Vanuatu Trainer Grahame Begg has aimed lightly raced Vanuatu at the Group Three Summoned Stakes and believes the mare heads into … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Ramsey eyes Group 3 win after VRC Oaks thrill Scone trainer John Ramsey is eyeing Group Three glory at Newcastle on Saturday with Bright Rubick, fresh off his “big … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Kendrick puts trust in Swettenham Stud Trainer Stuart Kendrick hopes to cement his relationship with the Swettenham Stud when Trust In Aloha runs at the Sunshine … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Banquo on target for Group 2 Sandown Guineas A week after winning a Listed race at Flemington, promising Danny O’Brien-trained colt Banquo will be out to add the … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Newcastle a sweet target for Panna Cotta A barrier trial win over subsequent Golden Gift runner-up See You Soon has Mark Newnham quietly confident Panna Cotta can … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news 5 years ago Another Happy Valley meeting cancelled The political and social unrest in Hong Kong has prompted the cancellation of another midweek race card at Happy Valley … Read More Australia horse racing news 5 years ago Spectroscope in line for Sydney trip Spectroscope will head to Sydney for a tilt at the Villiers next month if he races well in the Mooloolaba … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 5 years ago Supera favoured for Tauranga feature Supera will use Saturday’s Group 2 Gartshore Tauranga Stakes (1600m) as a dress rehearsal for a return to Group 1 … Read More United Kingdom Horse Racing News 5 years ago Enable crowned Europe’s best for 2nd time Enable has been named the 2019 Cartier Horse of the Year – becoming the third horse to be awarded the … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news 6 years ago Supplementary entries close Monday for the HKIR The last opportunity to enter horses for the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s flagship meeting, the HK$93 million LONGINES Hong Kong … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news 6 years ago Fownes says Southern Legend ready to step up Trainer Caspar Fownes is confident his Group 1 miler Southern Legend is ready to turn around an indifferent start to … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news 6 years ago Exultant on the road to adulation in Sunday’s Jockey Club Cup Adulation has not poured down on Exultant – not yet, at least – but trainer Tony Cruz believes the talented … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Tough crumpet a bright light for owners Iamacrumpet has overcome the odds to take her place in the Highway Handicap at Rosehill … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Te Akau Shark wins again for NRL veteran Cronulla veteran Paul Gallen is celebrating a Group Two win as a part-owner of emerging New Zealand galloper Te Akau … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Cummings counts on distant drop for Tally After a successful Flemington carnival, Godolphin will have just the two runners at the final meeting of the spring at … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Ex-Godolphin runners a hit with McFarlane Trainer Greg McFarlane is hoping to continue his luck with tried horses when he saddles up two former Godolphin gallopers … Read More Horse Racing News 6 years ago ATC continues to invest in future of Sydney racing Australian Turf Club (ATC) is in a strong position to return its business to an operating surplus this financial year … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 6 years ago Shark savages Coupland’s rivals Te Akau Shark maintained his status as New Zealand’s most exciting galloper, producing a stunning finishing burst to land the … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news 6 years ago Returning Leung looking to Spark his season after lengthy ban Friends reunited is the theme for Derek Leung’s return to action at Happy Valley tonight (Wednesday, 14 November) and the … Read More Japan horse racing news 6 years ago Japan Racing News: Grade 1 Mile Championship preview It’s the turn of the top milers in Japan to step out and do battle this coming Sunday (November 18), … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Lord Fandango cleared for Zipping Classic Lord Fandango has recovered from a bout of colic that forced him out of the Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Flemington … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Freedman ready to call Sydney home again Michael Freedman is back in Sydney after winding up a stint in Hong Kong and is looking forward to reigniting … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 6 years ago Kiwi Ida takes out Breeders’ Stakes The John And Karen Parsons-owned and trained galloper Kiwi Ida added a second stakes win to her tally when she … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 6 years ago Magnificent seven for Prince Oz Seven-year-old gelding Prince Oz has been a revelation since joining the stable of Riccarton trainer Neill Ridley. The talented sprinter … Read More Hong Kong horse racing news 6 years ago World’s best jockeys to assemble at Happy Valley for the IJC THE world’s best jockeys will compete for the International Jockeys’ Championship in a spectacular night of racing at Happy Valley … Read More New Zealand horse racing news 6 years ago Savvy Coup shifts to Chris Waller stable Dual Group 1 winner Savvy Coup will remain in Australia after failing to fire in a two-start campaign in Melbourne … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Victorem chases stakes success in Brisbane Country Championship winner Victorem will test his stakes credentials in the Listed Keith Noud Quality at Doomben … Read More Australia horse racing news 6 years ago Andrew Ramsden winner to gain a Cup berth The Melbourne Cup has another ballot exempt race with the Andrew Ramsden joining The Bart Cummings, Caulfield Cup, Cox Plate … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Andrew Adkins to ride Fickle Folly Tamworth trainer Sue Grills has booked apprentice Andrew Adkins to ride in-form mare Fickle Folly with veteran Robert Thompson committed … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Salsonic zeroes in on Villiers Stakes Salsonic will take his next step towards the Group Two Villiers Stakes at Randwick when the Jason Coyle-trained gelding runs … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Yulong Xingsheng to run in Twilight Glow The Kris Lees-trained Yulong Xingsheng will continue her spring preparation at Sandown in the Listed Twilight Glow Stakes … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Queensland stewards allegedly assaulted Two Queensland racing stewards have allegedly been assaulted while conducting an inspection at a property in Toowoomba … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago RV appoints acting head of integrity team Racing Victoria has appointed Tim Robinson as its acting head of integrity services … Read More Horse Racing Tips 7 years ago Free form & Thursday quaddie tips for Pakenham races We head to the outskirts of Melbourne for the Thursday night quaddie as Pakenham hosts a strong eight-race card … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Black Heart Bart Railway topweight Multiple Group One winner Black Heart Bart will have to carry 59kg to win the Group One Railway Stakes in … Read More Horse Racing Tips 7 years ago Coupland’s Mile full form & tips for Wednesday, November 15 THE New Zealand Cup and Show Week is in full swing and Wednesday’s Group Two Coupland’s Mile is the headline … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Two Sandown options for Dodging Bullets The Symon Wilde-trained Dodging Bullets will be chasing a third-straight win when he runs at Sandown, but which race he … Read More Horse Racing News 7 years ago Singleton sets Stock Up for first start Hawkesbury trainer Scott Singleton will introduce three-year-old filly Stock Up to racing on her home track … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Single Gaze building slowly to G1 goal Group One winner Single Gaze has returned to work with trainer Nick Olive looking to gradually step her up towards … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Malaguerra heads west for G1 Winterbottom Dual Group One-winner Malaguerra is among the eastern states horses who will be chasing feature race success in Perth, with … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Australia’s five best horse racing trainers of all time AUSTRALIAN thoroughbred racing is blessed with some of the sport’s very best horse trainers. The likes of John O’Shea, Chris … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Turnitaround among 28 Ballarat Cup entries Trainer Matthew Williams is planning to back Eclipse Stakes winner Turnitaround up in the Ballarat Cup which has attracted 28 … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Oliver with chance at first Railway win Damien Oliver will ride the Chris Waller-trained Mackintosh in the Group One Railway Stakes in Perth, a race which has … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Busy spring paying dividends for Pfieffer Dixie Chick’s next assignment is a benchmark race at Rosehill but trainer David Pfieffer believes she can eventually compete in … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Japanese sprinters set to clash in Hong Kong Sprint JAPANESE sprinting stars Big Arthur and Red Falx are set to clash in the Group 1 Hong Kong Sprint at … Read More Horse Racing Tips 8 years ago Racing at Sandown with form and free tips, Wednesday November 16 SANDOWN is back after hosting the Zipping Classic on Saturday with an eight-race card this Wednesday. The Melbourne spring carnival … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Douglas Whyte to ride in Perth Group One Douglas Whyte will travel from Hong Kong to Perth to ride Scales Of Justice in the Group One Railway Stakes … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Record 13 races at Sunshine Coast The Sunshine Coast will host a record 13 races after the decision to transfer Saturday’s washed out open handicap to … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Waller declares innocence after horse tests positive for ice CHRIS Waller has declared his innocence after one of his horses tested positive for ice last week. The champion trainer … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Dylan Dunn wins international race Champion Victorian apprentice Dylan Dunn has won an international race for junior jockeys in Abu Dhabi … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Panel to discuss 10,000 change Queensland’s Thoroughbred Advisory Panel is to discuss the possible move of the Doomben 10,000 to Eagle Farm … Read More Horse Racing News 8 years ago Grade One winning jumper Simonsig put down Grade One winning jumper Simonsig has been put down after suffering a catastrophic leg injury at Cheltenham … Read More View the full article

Observations on the European Racing Scene turns the spotlight on the best European races of the day, highlighting well-pedigreed horses early in their careers, horses of note returning to action and young runners that achieved notable results in the sales ring. Saturday's Observations features a full-brother to a Group 1 winner. 16.15 Newmarket, Mdn, £20,000, 2yo, f, 7fT The Thoroughbred Racing Corporation's famed green-and-white silks will be carried by DIGUB (IRE) (Sea The Stars {Ire}), who is a 360,000gns Tattersalls October Book 1 full-sister to G1 Australian Cup hero Fifty Stars (Ire). The William Haggas-trained debutante encounters nine rivals headed by Godolphin's once-raced Wild Angel (GB) (Too Darn Hot {GB}), who is a three-parts sister to connections' multiple Group 1-winning sire Space Blues (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}). The post Full-Brother To G1 Australian Cup Hero Fifty Stars Set For HQ Introduction appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

With just a neck separating National Treasure (Quality Road) and Senor Buscador (Mineshaft) in a thrilling renewal of the GI Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes back in January, the two will meet for the third time this season in Saturday's inaugural GI California Crown Stakes at Santa Anita. Senor Buscador turned the tables on National Treasure and delivered a come-from-behind head victory in the $20-million G1 Saudi Cup Feb. 24, then was a well-beaten third in the $12-million G1 Dubai World Cup. Given plenty of time to bounce back following his trip to the desert, the popular 6-year-old resurfaced with a useful fourth in the seven-furlong GII Pat O'Brien Stakes at Del Mar Aug. 24. In four starts this year, Senor Buscador has bankrolled more than $11.7 million. “It's been fun,” trainer Todd Fincher said of Senor Buscador's 2024 campaign. “I just don't think the race is going to set up. I know he'll run a good race, but I'm probably going to be on the losing end. Still, this should set him up great for the Breeders' Cup, which will likely be loaded with a lot more speed.” After passing on the Dubai World Cup, National Treasure delivered a blowout, front-running win in the stallion-making GI Hill 'n' Dale Metropolitan Handicap at Saratoga June 8. He failed to fire as the 4-5 favorite over the off going–he's been off the board in all three of his attempts on wet tracks–in the GI Whitney Stakes at the Spa last time Aug. 3. In addition to the aforementioned 8-5 morning-line favorite, Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert will also saddle second-choice 'TDN Rising Star' Muth (Good Magic), a perfect three for three this season, led by a win in the GI Arkansas Derby, and the rail-drawn GI Santa Anita Handicap winner 'TDN Rising Star' Newgate (Into Mischief), off since a ninth-place finish in the Dubai World Cup. Any pre-race instructions for jockeys Flavien Prat (National Treasure), John Velazquez (Newgate) and Juan Hernandez (Muth)? “They all know these horses already,” Baffert said. “Those guys are professionals. I don't want to get in their way. I think they'll just play the break and go from there.” With the connections of Indispensable (Constitution) opting instead for Sunday's GIII Oklahoma Derby at Remington, a scratched-down field of six will line up for the $1-million 'Win and You're In' for the GI Breeders' Cup Classic. The 1 1/8-mile California Crown replaced the Awesome Again Stakes on the Santa Anita stakes calendar. The California Crown is part of a blockbuster day of racing at the Great RIP, featuring five stakes races, VIP area trackside performances by Gryffin, Lil Yachty, Shaboozey, Frank Walker and Zack Bia and high-end dining experiences featuring the world's leading chefs. The 10-race program also includes the GII California Crown John Henry Turf Championship Stakes, the GII California Crown Eddie D Stakes and the GII City of Hope Mile Stakes, a 'Win and You're In' for the GI Breeders' Cup Mile. The California Crown, John Henry and Eddie D will all be aired nationally on CNBC and streamed on Peacock starting at 3 p.m. PT. A Pair of Breeders' Cup Berths on the Line at the Big A A quartet of graded events, including a pair of Breeders' Cup Challenge races, will be on tap Saturday at the Belmont at the Big A meeting. The two-for-two Zulu Kingdom (Ire) (Ten Sovereigns {Ire}), a narrow winner while making his U.S. debut for Chad Brown in the GIII With Anticipation Stakes at Saratoga Aug. 29, will look to punch his ticket to the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf in the 'Win and You're In' GII Pilgrim Stakes. Comedy Town (Speightstown), claimed by trainer and co-owner Saffie Joseph, Jr. for $25,000 earlier this season and currently riding a three-race winning streak at Gulfstream, is the 5-2 morning-line favorite for the GIII Vosburgh Stakes, a 'Win and You're In' for the GI Breeders' Cup Sprint. The 7-year-old mare War Like Goddess (English Channel) will attempt to defeat males for the third straight year and become the first three-time winner of the GI Joe Hirsch Turf Classic. The 2022 and 2023 winner will meet GI Resorts World Casino Sword Dancer Stakes upsetter 'TDN Rising Star' Far Bridge (English Channel) and Sword Dancer third Silver Knott (GB) (Lope de Vega {Ire}). They'll have to catch two-time GII Charles Town Classic Stakes winner Skippylongstocking (Exaggerator), who is the controlling speed in the GII Woodward Stakes. Only four remain following the defection of the 10-for-10 South American sensation Kay Army (Chi) (Katmai {Chi}). Pair of Gradeds Beneath the Lights at Churchill Downs Saudi Crown (Always Dreaming) will be heavily favored in Saturday evening's GIII Ack Ack Stakes at Churchill Downs, a 'Win and You're In' for the GI Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile. The speedy gray held on for third in the G1 Saudi Cup, but could do no better than 12th in the G2 Godolphin Mile. He fired fresh off the bench with a wire-to-wire success in the R.A. “Cowboy” Jones Stakes at Ellis Park last time Aug. 11. The GII Lukas Classic, scheduled to jump at 10:40 p.m., features leading contenders Hit Show (Candy Ride {Arg}), 'TDN Rising Star' Disarm (Gun Runner) and Rattle N Roll (Connect). Full results for both will appear in Monday's TDN. The post Inaugural California Crown Highlights Massive Weekend of Racing appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The revised "European / Mideast Road to the Kentucky Derby" starts Sept 28 in England and Ireland but the turf heats look unlikely to impact the first Saturday in May in Louisville.View the full article

Bango took his rightful place in Churchill Downs lore Sept. 27 when he raced to a record 12th victory under the Twin Spires. View the full article

The Supplemental Catalog for the Ocala Breeders' Sales Company's 2024 October Yearling Sale is now available via the OBS website and in printed form at the sales grounds. Forty-eight horses have been supplemented bringing the total to 583 horses. There are two sessions, set for Tuesday, Oct. 8th and Wednesday, Oct. 9th. Hip No.'s 1-266 plus supplements 267-288 will be offered on Tuesday and Hip No's 301-569 plus supplements 570-595 will be sold on Wednesday. Both sessions will begin at 11:30 a.m. A strong group of sires are represented in the supplemental catalog that are not included the main book. This includes Justify, Nyquist, Essential Quality, Munnings, Practical Joke, Maclean's Music, Authentic, Daredevil, Cross Traffic, and Honor A. P. This group joins the outstanding roster of sires in the original catalog, headed by Gun Runner, Maxfield, Yaupon, Candy Ride (ARG), Liam's Map, McKinzie, Vekoma, More Than Ready, Galilean, Girvin, Violence, Complexity, Leinster, Win Win Win, Uncle Chuck, and Khozan The post OBS Releases October Sale Supplemental Catalog appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Saturday's G1 Juddmonte Cheveley Park Stakes has a very different feel to it than at the 48-hour declaration stage, with the heavy rain that fell before the middle part of the three-day Cambridgeshire meeting affecting and afflicting the key races. Dynamic on good ground or quicker and unraced on anything softer than good-to-yielding, the sponsors' Babouche (GB) (Kodiac {GB}) has a new examination to sit on her first foray overseas and connections are in the dark as to how she will fare. Her dam Pavlosk (Arch) was impressive on soft when recording her career-best success at listed level and her full-sister Zarinsk (GB) also proved adept at handling these conditions when registering three of her set of black-type wins on easy going, but there is always a question mark with one who has demonstrated such speed on top-of-the-ground. Reassuringly, the participation of Ireland's hottest property among its clutch of high-class juvenile fillies is not in doubt regardless of the dramatic shift in the surface. “She will definitely run, whether she'll go on it we won't know until she does,” the operation's Barry Mahon said of the G1 Phoenix Stakes heroine. “We'll all find out together whether she likes it or not, that's the best way.” “Ger [Lyons] is very happy with her and Colin [Keane] rode her on Thursday morning and thought she was in good form,” he added. “She's got a little bit heavier and a little bit stronger from her last race, which is good to see. I wouldn't swap her for anything else. She's been rock-solid, she's beaten the colts, the form has worked out in the Morny and she's been a pillar of consistency all year.” Heavy ground is hardly any more suitable for Ballydoyle's Lake Victoria (Ire) (Frankel {GB}), who steps back to six furlongs having collected The Curragh's G1 Moyglare Stud Stakes over seven last time. Her previous win in the G3 Sweet Solera Stakes on the July Course here came on quick ground, so the daughter of Quiet Reflection (GB) (Showcasing {GB}) is also entering unknown territory. Ryan Moore is unfazed, however. “She drops down to six furlongs here, which shouldn't be a problem, and I am not fearing that the slow ground will affect her either,” he confidently stated. “Babouche is obviously our main danger, also being an unbeaten group 1 winner, and it is set up to be a good match.” Looking to upset the idea of a “match” is The Aga Khan's impressive Chantilly conditions scorer Rayevka (Ire) (Blue Point {Ire}), who recorded impressive sectionals 12 days ago and who has prompted normally-conservative connections into the surprisingly bold action of supplementing her for this tough test. “She's in very good form, she's very well and we are looking forward to running her,” commented trainer Francis-Henri Graffard, who is looking to add to his already-stellar 2024 campaign. “It was the way she did it when she won last time and the way she has come out of the race, she's come on a lot, so we are going to give it a go before she winters,” he added. “Obviously it's a big challenge, I just hope the ground will not be too heavy, as that is my main worry. She would be happy on good-to-soft, we don't know how she will take to the track at Newmarket but that is the same for nearly all the fillies and we will find out.” This looks a strong renewal, with Gousserie Racing and Sandrine Gavrois's G3 Prix de Cabourg winner and G1 Prix Morny third Daylight (Fr) (Earthlight {Ire}), Rockcliffe Stud's G2 Lowther Stakes winner Celandine (GB) (Kingman {GB}) and Wathnan Racing's G2 Queen Mary Stakes scorer Leovanni (Ire) (Kodi Bear {Ire}) all with claims. The latter needs to up her game after her latest third behind Celandine in the Lowther, but Wathnan's racing adviser Richard Brown gave cause for optimism on Friday. “It looks like one of the hottest Cheveley Parks we've seen for a very long time, but she owes us nothing,” he said of the Karl Burke trainee. “There were a few things at York that probably didn't go her way. James [Doyle] was keen to ride her with a view to getting her to stay, but he felt afterwards that she saw the trip out well. We can probably ride her with a bit more confidence this time. It was hard carrying the three-pound penalty and she was beaten under two lengths.” A Middle Park Quandary… If the ground is an unknown for Babouche, it also raises question marks over the G1 Juddmonte Middle Park Stakes favourite Whistlejacket (Ire) (No Nay Never). While he has won the G1 Prix Morny and the G2 July Stakes on good-to-soft, he was readily brushed aside by Cowardofthecounty (Ire) (Kodi Bear {Ire}) on this going on debut at The Curragh back in April and it could be that a test at this six-furlong trip stretches him. Stablemate Ides Of March (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}) is unraced on ground slower than good and is probably even more likely to be compromised, suggesting this won't be the Ballydoyle bonanza it appears on paper. Godolphin's G2 Gimcrack Stakes runner-up Shadow Of Light (GB) (Lope De Vega {Ire}) and Wathnan Racing's unbeaten Defence Minister (GB) (Too Darn Hot {GB}) were both taken out of last Saturday's G2 Mill Reef Stakes after similarly heavy rain came to Newbury, while Eleanora Kennedy's G2 Richmond Stakes winner Black Forza (Complexity) captured that Goodwood contest on quick summer going. With so many unknowns, Nurlan Bizakov's Kempton novice winner Dash Dizzy (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}) could sneak into the picture as a half-brother to Sioux Nation who was sixth in this in 2017. Ready For Early Blue Riband Clues… There are two other important juvenile contests on Saturday which given the deterioration in ground conditions and the fact that they are staged at a mile both incline more towards the 2025 Derby than 2,000 Guineas. Newmarket's G2 Juddmonte Royal Lodge Stakes sees the Charlie Fellowes-trained Listed Ascendant Stakes winner Luther (GB) (Frankel {GB}) tackle Ballydoyle's Galway maiden winner Puppet Master (Ire) (Camelot {GB}), while at The Curragh the G2 Beresford Stakes, the Silverton Hill Partnership's G3 Tyros Stakes winner, and G2 Futurity Stakes runner-up Hotazhell (GB) (Too Darn Hot {GB}) is taken on by Ballydoyle's 12-length Galway maiden-winning TDN Rising Star Trinity College (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}) and ultra-green Listed Criterium de l'Ouest scorer Lambourn (Ire) (Australia {GB}). Also at The Curragh is the Goffs Million, where the Joseph O'Brien-trained Listed Criterium du FEE winner Apples And Bananas (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}) encounters Ballydoyle's Naas maiden scorer Antelope Canyon (Ire) (No Nay Never) and a dozen others chasing the bonanza. The post Mahon Ponders Babouche’s Cheveley Park Bid After Newmarket Downpour appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Fair Hill leg of the Real Rider Cup welcomed 36 horse and rider combinations along with hundreds of spectators to Fair Hill Thoroughbred Horse Show Sept. 13th. The charity show jumping competition brought together personalities from across the breeding and racing industry to increase awareness and raise funds for Thoroughbred aftercare, with each rider pledging to raise at least $1,000. Riders, mounted on off-track Thoroughbreds and wearing the silks of their employers, colleagues, and clients, contended a course of fences with the fastest clear rounds taking home top honors. Team SMACC Down produced both the overall champion and highest earning riders: Gabrelle Nguyen, last year's second-placed rider, took top honors as individual champion aboard Pet Me Pet Me, and last year's highest earner Sandi Norris smashed her previous total, personally raising $8,439. Team Pastured Place won the team competition. The evening concluded with non-competitive rounds showcasing three horses from Team Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation who collectively raised over $13,000 for the RRC's beneficiaries. Founded by Anita Motion in 2017, the original Real Rider Cup was hosted at the Unionville CCI 4* event with the Retired Racehorse Project as the sole beneficiary. It has since moved to Fair Hill, adding the Fair Hill Thoroughbred Show as beneficiary, as well as added a Kentucky leg of competition held at New Vocations' Lexington facility. Since its beginning, the event has raised over $600,000 for Thoroughbred aftercare and Motion has a vision to expand the event model to benefit more aftercare entities. To that end, the California Retirement Management Account (CARMA) will join the list of RRC beneficiaries, with a Los Angeles leg of the competition in the works for spring 2025. “We are thrilled with the opportunity to bring the Real Rider Cup to the West Coast and to add CARMA to our group of beneficiaries,” said Motion. “Not only does it raise much-needed funds for retraining and aftercare, but it demonstrates that we can all work together towards a unanimous goal.” “We are excited to welcome Real Rider Cup to California. This event has become a staple in the mid-west and east coast, and I know our equestrian community has been waiting for the opportunity to enjoy the event in their own backyard,” said Lucinda Lovitt, Executive Director of CARMA. “By bringing regional events like RRC to California, we continue to elevate Thoroughbred aftercare and the good work so many organizations do for the horses.” The post Real Rider Cup At Fair Hill Nets $80,000 For TB Aftercare, Plans To Expand To CA appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

3rd-Churchill Downs, $136,640, Alw (C)/Opt. Clm ($175,000), 9-27, 3yo/up, 6f, 1:09.76, sy, 2 1/4 lengths. BANGO (h, 7, Congrats–Josaka, by Smart Strike) had not visited the winner's circle at his home track since the Louisville Thoroughbred Society Stakes over a year ago. On the hunt for his 12th victory which would give him the all-time Churchill record over Ready's Rocket (More Than Ready), the 7-year-old was last seen finishing off the board over this surface in the Kelly's Landing Stakes June 29. Facing three others and as the 9-5 second choice, the venerable homebred chased his three rivals initially up the backstretch. Locked in along the rail around the far turn, Bango splashed along looking for a way through. The Greg Foley trainee split horses at the top of the lane, dove to the inside once again and rolled home to capture the Twin Spires mark by 2 1/4 lengths over favorite Angkor (Anchor Down). The winner is a half-brother to Eton Ridge (Stephen Got Even), SW-PR, $274,962. Josaka is responsible for a 2-year-old colt by Flatter, a weanling filly by Jack Christopher who was foaled Apr. 10 and she visited Arabian Lion for next season. Bango hails from an extended female family which includes GII Louisiana Derby hero Revolutionary (War Pass). Lifetime Record: MSW/GSP, 38-15-4-4, $1,617,891. Click for the Equibase.com chart or VIDEO, sponsored by FanDuel TV. O/B-Tamaroak Stable (KY); T-Gregory D. Foley. Bango does it!! 12 wins at Churchill Downs! He breaks the all-time record of wins in R3 on the card under regular pilot @tyler_gaff for trainer @foley_racing! #TwinSpiresReplay pic.twitter.com/MRT5hWqoAS — TwinSpires Racing (@TwinSpires) September 27, 2024 The post Bango Sets Churchill Downs All-Time Mark For Wins On Friday appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The combination of an incredible riding performance, and sheer will to win, saw Southport Tycoon zip home to land a red-hot renewal of The Valley's Manikato Stakes (G1) Sept. 27.View the full article

It's a familiar lament: prize-money in Britain is terrible. But is it actually true? The answer is different depending on where and at which level you are racing. At Class 5 and 6 level, where a significant portion of the horse population plies its trade, prize-money levels are poor and that is giving the rest of British racing an unfair reputation. But for those fortunate enough to race a top horse in Britain, the fact is that owners are better rewarded than those in Ireland or France. In 2024, 18 of the 24 most valuable Group 1 races in Europe have been or will be run in Britain. Drop to Group 2 level and there are 43 races worth at least £115,000 in Britain, compared to six in France and four in Ireland. In fact, 19 of the most valuable Group 2 races in those three countries are staged in Britain, headed by the £500,000 City of York Stakes, whose prize fund has been boosted with the aim of Group 1 promotion at heart. For Group 3 races, there are 59 in Britain run at £70,000 or more, while just three Irish Group 3s reach that mark and none in France. The 23 most valuable Group 3 races in Europe are all in Britain including the £200,000 Bahrain Trophy at Newmarket and Goodwood's £200,000 Gordon Stakes. In the black-type programme, a further 99 Listed races are run at £50,000 or more in Britain this year, and again this compares favourably to its two nearest neighbours, with France hosting 28 at that level and Ireland three. Again, the most valuable Listed race in Europe is in Britain: the £150,000 Redcar Two Year Old Trophy. With the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale just around the corner, this is a message that the company's marketing director, Jimmy George, is keen to share with potential buyers at the sales. Indeed, it is incumbent on all those involved in British racing to refresh the narrative. “Often the [Group prize-money] is competitive with America,” says George. “For example, the G3 Tattersalls Acomb Stakes is worth £165,000, which is approximately $215,000, and there is not one Grade II or Grade III two-year-old race at the forthcoming Belmont/Aqueduct meeting worth more than $200,000.” Indeed, the Acomb, run at York's Ebor meeting, is part of a four-day festival at which not a single race is run for less than £100,000. York racecourse has long been a leader in its field, and the advent of Premier Racing, which has not been met with unanimous approval, has meant that some courses have been forced into significantly improving purses at their Premier fixtures. What goes up also usually comes down, however, and plenty of 'Core fixtures' have offered reduced prize-money at the lower tiers of racing. George also points to the programme of maiden and novice races in Britain, which has been enhanced in the last two seasons by a series of 84 high-value development races backed by Juddmonte, Darley, Tattersalls and the British EBF. “I think there are around 100 maiden or novice races in Britain worth £25,000 or more, and at least 85 of those are worth £30,000 or more, with the Convivial Maiden at York worth £100,000,” he adds. “We have had an average of 44 £25,000 Tattersalls October Book 1 Bonus winners each year since the scheme began eight years ago, so that's an extra £1 million-plus in two-year-old win prize-money in each of those years. “Great British Bonus figures can be added as well, and as an example, the Victorious Racing filly Duty First won £49,320 when she won her maiden at Ayr last month, comprising the feeble £4,320 of prize-money, £20,000 GBB and £25,000 Tattersalls October Book 1 Bonus, and the Salhia Stud filly Bintjeddah won £50,400 for winning her maiden at Haydock last week – £5,400 prize-money, £20,000 GBB and £25,000 Tattersalls October Book 1 Bonus.” George says that he would like to see these bonuses acknowledged alongside the official prize-money figures in a horse's career overview, similar to the way French premiums are shown on the France Galop website. He continues, “Sadly, when you look up those horses, and obviously any other bonus winners, all you see is that they won £4,320 or £5,400, so the perceived wisdom that there is no prize-money in British racing is perpetuated. We do our best to highlight all Book 1 Bonus winners, and the GBB winners are all on their website, but there is precious little dialogue about this and no official, centralised way of this money being recognised in statistics. “It is also worth bearing in mind the winners of a JRA two-year-old maiden win ¥7,200,000, which is about £39,000. As an industry, we need to raise the level of awareness amongst ourselves as to the prize-money opportunities that are out there. The Tattersalls' perspective is that winning your maiden is almost the most important point in your prize-money journey. And if you get a big payday the day you win your first-ever race, that gives you a warm and tingly feeling going forward. Hence, we've committed so much money over the last eight years to the Book 1 Bonus scheme, and it's distributed £9 million in extra prize-money directly to owners in Britain and in Ireland as well.” Of course, only a selection of the racing population emanates from Book 1, and the GBB scheme is only open to fillies bred in Britain or by British stallions, so there are restrictions in these extra funds available, but the high-value maidens are increasingly prevalent. “There's more than two a week of these that trainers can target and there's plenty more in that £15,000 to £25,000 bracket,” says George. “So constantly beating ourselves up to the detriment of the overall industry makes it difficult to sell the sport to new owners or even retain others, and to my mind, runs the risk of them migrating to places like France where, again, the perceived wisdom is not always matched by the reality. One absolute fact is that Group and Listed races in this country are worth significantly more than they are anywhere else in Europe across the board. “If you are lucky enough to have a good horse, Britain is the best place in Europe to have it by a country mile. That is not necessarily a narrative that is widely disseminated or trumpeted by, dare I say it, the vast majority of the racing media or even the people paid to promote British racing. And, therefore, a huge number of racing professionals get battered into thinking that they're clinging on without a life jacket to a sinking ship. It's time to sell the sport a little bit better.” That is something that George has been doing from the perspective of Tattersalls for more than three decades. On Thursday, he made the surprise announcement of his imminent departure to the International Racing Bureau. That is not until January, however, and before then he is looking forward to welcoming the major players of the bloodstock world to Park Paddocks for the fortnight-long October Yearling Sale, which begins on Tuesday, October 8. “We're very fortunate to have so many of the world's biggest and most committed racehorse owners and breeders focusing their operations and their attention on Britain, racing all or most of their best stock here, maybe breeding all or most of their best stock over here, but also focusing on Book 1 of the Tattersalls October yearlings to source the best stock that is available,” he says. “And that, I think, is the key element of Book 1 of the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale. It is recognised throughout the world as being the single biggest collection of elite turf yearlings, probably to be found anywhere in the world, which reflects not only the quality of the stock that the breeders are sending to the sale, but also the quality of the stallions that we currently have in Britain, Ireland and France, even without Galileo now.” George and his colleagues spend plenty of time in the air on their way to recruit potential buyers for the sale. “It's obviously a very important part of what we do at Tattersalls, spreading the word as far and wide as we possibly can every year,” he says. “The process begins very early in the year, the regular trips to North America, Japan, Hong Kong, Australia, throughout the Gulf region. We like to think there are very few stones that remain unturned in the course of us scouring the globe to push the message out. A total of 1,873 yearlings have been catalogued across the four books of the October Sale, which has been deliberately reduced in number by 273 this year to ease the pressure on both vendors and buyers. At the sale's end comes Qipco British Champions Day at Ascot on October 19 with prize-money totalling £4.5 million across six races, headed by the £1.3-million G1 Champion Stakes. “Almost by definition, there will be something for everyone and it's very important that we don't just attract the elite buyers, but those whose budgets are more suited to the latter part of the October yearling sale know that they can come here confident that they also have a chance of finding superior race horses,” says George. “It's a very busy fortnight and we have made a conscious effort this year to try and tighten it a little bit to make the two weeks more manageable, and particularly in week two, spanning Books 2, 3 and 4. I think everybody working that second week will hopefully benefit from that and notice the difference, that it won't be quite as attritional as sometimes it can feel.” As George reflects on his time at Tattersalls, clearly one of the things of which he feels most proud is the launch of the Book 1 Bonus back in 2015. “They are putting a lot of prize-money directly into the hands of owners, significant prize-money, which we strongly believe makes a difference to these owners. We want people to win these bonuses because it keeps them engaged in the sport,” he says. “It makes a difference, particularly at the slightly lower sector of the October Book 1 market, that at 100,0000gns and below. Thirty-five per cent of the 383 Book 1 bonus winners that we've had to date since the scheme's inception have been purchased for a 100,0000gns or less.” Over those years, around £9 million has been paid out in Book 1 Bonuses, while the Thoroughbred Breeders' Association's GBB Scheme, funded by the Levy Board and with contributions from breeders and owners, has dished out around £16.5 million (£14 million from the Levy Board) since its inception in 2020. George adds, “I'm sure with a bit of joined-up thinking and getting a few people around a table, we can make sure the Book 1 Bonus and GBB figures are reflected in prize-money statistics. It's amazing how much difference a few million pounds in prize-money carefully directed can make to the ownership experience.” The post Is Prize-Money In Britain Really That Bad? appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Mama Cocha looks for a repeat win in the Sprinters Stakes (G1) Sept. 29 at Nakayama Racecourse, one of only two top-level sprints on the Japanese racing calendar.View the full article