Wandering Eyes

Hugo Palmer trainee The Waco Kid (Ire) (Mehmas {Ire}–Catchingsnowflakes, by Galileo {Ire}) served a three-race stakes apprenticeship after graduating over six furlongs at Newbury in July and made a black-type breakthrough with a pillar-to-post triumph in Thursday's G3 Tattersalls Stakes at Newmarket. The January-foaled bay bettered an Aug. 2 fifth in Goodwood's G2 Richmond Stakes with a fourth in the Aug. 21 G3 Acomb Stakes at York in his penultimate start and arrived here off the back of a third in this month's Listed Flying Scotsman Stakes at Doncaster. Quickest on the draw from the stalls to claim an immediate lead and a stands' side berth, the 13-2 chance was shaken up when threatened approaching the quarter-mile marker and found deep reserves up the hill to win, going away, by 2 1/4 lengths from the hitherto unbeaten Diego Ventura (Ire) (Mehmas {GB}) for a career high. The 5-4 favourite Monumental (Ire) (Kingman {GB}) held every chance in the closing stages, but lacked the necessary gears and finished 1 1/4 lengths adrift back in third. “I think he's very typical of the stallion, who seems to be taking the mantle of Kodiac,” said Palmer. “You would always think, if someone sent you a Kodiac, there was a ready-made winner for next year. I feel the same about Mehmas, they are just so tough and go on every ground. This has to be a career best and I think what is lovely about this horse is he has produced career best after career best on every start. He's not the biggest in the world and we've tried to make as much of his 2-year-old season as we can and I'm absolutely delighted. He deserves a step up in grade, but I suspect I've made the most terrible mess of it because he did have nice entries. I needed to confirm for the [G1] Dewhurst, and that sort of thing, and I probably took him out and out of the [G1 Prix Jean-Luc] Lagardere as well. There's the Group 1 in France, the [Oct. 27] Criterium International, and we might go there. He is in the horses in training sale at the end of the month and he is likely to be one of Tattersalls' star lots there. We will just have to look at dates, the Breeders' Cup could be an option as well, but we will just have to see. I'm sure we will run again and we have five weeks before Tattersalls get their hands on him.” Hamad Al Jehani was satisfied with the performance of Diego Ventura, who suffered a first reversal in three starts. “It was his first time in a stakes race and I was very happy with him,” the trainer said. “To run in that company of horse, and be second or third favourite on just his third time out, it shows he does his job very well. He handled the seven furlongs well and the ground suited him. I think he deserves to run again at this level, so we will see how he is after a couple of days and make a plan for him.” Pedigree Notes The Waco Kid, full-brother to a weanling filly from the family of G1 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup heroine Danish (Ire) (Danehill), is the first of two registered foals out of an unraced half-sister G1 2000 Guineas-winning sire Kameko (Kitten's Joy). His Grade III-winning second dam Sweeter Still (Ire) (Rock Of Gibraltar {Ire}) is kin to G1 Racing Post Trophy victor Kingsbarns (Ire), G3 Derrinstown Stud 1000 Guineas Trial victrix Belle Artiste (Ire) (Namid {GB}) and the dual stakes-placed Elizabethofaragon (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}). Tattersalls Stakes The Waco Kid Diego Ventura Monumental@oismurphy | @MHS_HorseRacing pic.twitter.com/zFrBYOOSGp — Newmarket Racecourse (@NewmarketRace) September 26, 2024 Thursday, Newmarket, Britain TATTERSALLS STAKES (SOMERVILLE TATTERSALL STAKES)-G3, £60,000, Newmarket, 9-26, 2yo, c/g, 7fT, 1:29.97, sf. 1–THE WACO KID (IRE), 128, c, 2, by Mehmas (Ire) 1st Dam: Catchingsnowflakes, by Galileo (Ire) 2nd Dam: Sweeter Still (Ire), by Rock Of Gibraltar (Ire) 3rd Dam: Beltisaal (Fr), by Belmez 1ST BLACK-TYPE WIN; 1ST GROUP WIN. (80,000gns Ylg '23 TATOCT). O-The Gene Genies II; B-Tally-Ho Stud (IRE); T-Hugo Palmer; J-Oisin Murphy. £34,026. Lifetime Record: 6-2-0-1, $84,689. Werk Nick Rating: A+. Click for the eNicks report & 5-cross pedigree, or the free Equineline.com catalogue-style pedigree. 2–Diego Ventura (Ire), 128, c, 2, Mehmas (Ire)–Leoube (Ire), by Kodiac (GB). 1ST BLACK TYPE; 1ST GROUP BLACK TYPE. (€88,000 Ylg '23 GOFOR; €72,000 2yo '24 TATBRU). O-Wathnan Racing; B-Sean Ronan & Caroline Hanly (IRE); T-Hamad Al Jehani. £12,900. 3–Monumental (Ire), 128, c, 2, Kingman (GB)–Riqa (GB), by Dubawi (Ire). O-Derrick Smith, Mrs John Magnier & Michael Tabor; B-Barronstown Stud (IRE); T-Aidan O'Brien. £6,456. Margins: 2 1/4, 1 1/4, 2HF. Odds: 6.50, 4.50, 1.25. Also Ran: Symbol Of Honour (GB), Assertively (Ire), Balzarini (Ger). Scratched: Huscal (Ire). The post Hugo Palmer Trainee The Waco Kid Downs Rivals in Newmarket Feature appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The recently announced merging of the stables of leading French trainers Jean-Claude Rouget and Jerome Reynier will now not take place. Rouget, the five-time champion trainer in France, has been undergoing treatment for lymphoma and in August announced that he would take out a joint-licence with Reynier from January 2025. He said at the time, “I have known Jerome for some years and when I looked at the way he works, everything about it pleased me.” In the days following the announcement, the Aga Khan Studs relocated its horses from Rouget's stable to that of Francis-Henri Graffard. On Thursday Reynier said that the merger “just wasn't viable”. One of the rising forces of the French training ranks, Reynier, who is based at Calas, near Marseille, added, “It was very hard to organise, financially and structurally, with the staff and everything else.” Reynier was represented on the international stage back in March when Facteur Cheval (Fr) won the G1 Dubai Turf at Meydan and more recently notched a top-flight success at home with Lazzat (Fr) in the G1 Prix Maurice de Gheest. He added, “We tried to put everything in place but it was too much of a nightmare to organise. “I'm going to expand and increase the number of horses in the south of France where I am currently very happy to train and gallop, and I will be creating a satellite yard near Paris within the next few months.” Rouget, 71, whose training business began in Pau 46 years ago, also has a sizeable satellite operation in Deauville and is numerically the most successful trainer in European racing history. In 1991, he set a French record with his 178 wins for the season. He has saddled two of the last four winners of the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in Sottsass (Fr) and Ace Impact (Ire), and has won the Prix du Jockey Club six times. The post Rouget and Reynier Abandon Plans for Joint-Licence appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Jimmy George will step down from his role as marketing director of Tattersalls at the end of 2024 to join the International Racing Bureau (IRB) as managing director. He will take over from Alastair Donald, who has held that position since 2001. George, who has been a director of Tattersalls for 23 years, said, “I joined Tattersalls in 1986 and have served on the Board since 2001 so this has not been a decision taken lightly, but I have a long association with the International Racing Bureau which, like Tattersalls, is a great company with a global reputation for excellence and the time is right to take on a new challenge. “I have enjoyed every moment of my time at Tattersalls and will leave with fond memories and in the knowledge that I will continue to have an association with a firm which has always adhered to the very highest standards and commands respect throughout the world.” Alastair Donald said, “After more than 40 years and 23 of them as managing director it is time to move on from the International Racing Bureau and I am delighted that Jimmy will be taking on the role. He has a detailed knowledge of the company and is joining a dedicated and talented group of individuals, all of whom I have thoroughly enjoyed working with and all of whom have played a major part in the lasting success of the International Racing Bureau.” Tattersalls Chairman Edmond Mahony added, “Jimmy has served on the Tattersalls Board with enormous distinction for more than 20 years and I would not only like to thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to Tattersalls over many years, but also to wish him every success in his new role as managing director of the International Racing Bureau. Jimmy has a working lifetime of experience, particularly in a multitude of overseas markets, which we will continue to harness and we are delighted that he will be maintaining an association with Tattersalls.” The post Jimmy George to Succeed Alastair Donald at International Racing Bureau appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The programme for next year's Cheltenham Festival has undergone some key changes in order to improve competitiveness in a number of races. From 2025, the two-and-a-half-mile Turners Novices' Chase will be replaced by a Grade 2 limited novice handicap chase over the same trip, while the National Hunt Chase, which has been contested by amateur riders, will be open to professionals and become a novice handicap chase for horses rated 0-145. Jon Pullin, head of racing and clerk of the course at Cheltenham, said, “We have had to acknowledge that due to the restrictions that were previously applied to the race, there was a limited pool of riders available to ride in it, so this looks the right opportunity to open it up to professionals as well. “Amateur jockeys are a key part of the Festival and we are obviously keen to ensure they continue to have opportunities to ride over the four days. Both the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Handicap Chase and St James's Place Festival Hunters' Chase will continue to be restricted to amateurs. “It is hoped that by creating two novice handicap chases, we will have two competitive races with large fields and encourage the top novice chasers of the season to go down the Graded route in the My Pension Expert Arkle and the Brown Advisory.” Further changes include the Glenfarclas Cross County Chase being made a limited handicap rather than a conditions race. In the mares-only division, the G1 Mares' Hurdle and G2 Mares' Chase have been left unchanged, but conditions for the Ryanair Mares' Novices' Hurdle will be altered to remove the penalty structure, resulting in a level weights contest. An alteration has been made to the Pertemps Final, with all winners of series qualifiers now guaranteed a run proved they are within the weights at the declaration stage, and all entries in non-novice Festival handicaps must now run four times over fences and five times over hurdles. In addition to alterations to some races, infrastructure at the track is also being improved following problems caused to in the car parks after heavy rain last March. More hard-standing 'trackway' will be laid in the grass car parks and there will be a new park and ride system. Coach travel options from more than 20 pick-up locations will be offered, with other moves including tickets for the 2025 Festival being frozen at 2024 levels, discounts if purchasing tickets for more than one day at the meeting (excluding Gold Cup day) and if groups of six or more book together. Bar facilities will be upgraded in a bid to provide more choice, offer indoor seating and reduce queues while meal deals will be offered on track as Cheltenham seeks to offer more value for customers. Accommodation prices in the Cheltenham area have also prompted discussion, with the track partnering with Venatour Racing to offer discounted packages that include tickets, hotels and travel. Ian Renton, managing director of Cheltenham, said, “As part of the process of reviewing this year's Festival we analysed data and extensive feedback, including surveys, one-to-one meetings and focus group sessions to seek views ranging from those who come every year all the way through to people who have never visited the Festival to find out why. “Throughout the course of this review process there have been three distinct strands which have been impossible to ignore – value for money, the need to provide the best experience possible and the competitiveness of the race programme. “As with any event of this size, it is never possible to make changes which are welcomed by everyone. However, we have prioritised listening to our racegoers to put them and their experiences at the heart of the Festival, with the ultimate goal of delivering something that not only meets but exceeds expectations.” The post Changes Afoot for the 2025 Cheltenham Festival appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Given a lifeline in June, the veteran handler has started the season in fine style as he takes aim at the Jockey Club’s increasingly malleable trainers’ criteria.View the full article

Mr Brightside (NZ) (Bullbars) and Pride Of Jenni are set to face off again in the Feehan Stakes at Moonee Valley. Trainers Ben, Will and J D Hayes have decided to tackle three opponents in the Group 2 race over 1600m at Moonee Valley on Friday night. J D Hayes said the decision to run was made as Friday night’s race fits in best with their intention of heading to the Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m) at The Valley on October 26. The Hayes brothers are after redemption in the Cox Plate having been beaten by Hong Kong champion Romantic Warrior in last year’s edition. “We’re definitely going to take our place,” J D Hayes said of Friday night’s clash with Pride Of Jenni. “It just fits into what could possibly be his next run better. It keeps a lot more options open, staying at the mile for one more.” Options for Mr Brightside after Friday night include the Group 1 Might And Power (2000m) at Caulfield or the Group 2 Hill Stakes (1900m) at Rosehill, both on October 12, as the lead-up to the Cox Plate while the Group 1 King Charles III Stakes (1600m) at Randwick a week later also remains as a possibility. Mr Brightside will renew hostilities with Pride Of Jenni on Friday night, having beaten the mare in the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on September 14. Hayes said having just three opponents will make for a tactical contest, one he is sure jockey Craig Williams will be well up to the task for. “I think a small field suits us better because we won’t have to make too wide a run around them if something does want to give us a cart up to her,” Hayes said. “That would be highly appreciated, but I doubt Antino (NZ) (Redwood) will do that again. “We’ve got a very good tactical jockey on board, Craig Williams. I’m sure he’ll have a plan A, B, C, D and E ready to go. “Our job’s done. The horse is very well. He’s trained on nicely from the Makybe and we’re really happy to run at The Valley tomorrow.” Mr Brightside has an emphatic record at The Valley, winning three times from five starts and one second, with his one ‘miss’ being in the 2022 Cox Plate when finishing seventh. Pride Of Jenni has raced only once at The Valley, at the same meeting last year where she adopted her ‘catch me if you can’ tactics and was run down late by Amelia’s Jewel. “Jenni’s going to do her thing and bowl out in front, so it’s just going to be how we time our run,” Hayes said. “If Mr Brightside’s within four lengths, 400 metres from home, I’d back him in to reel in just about any horse in the country. “Admittedly, she is probably the hardest horse to reel in, and she’s very good around The Valley. “She nearly knocked off Amelia’s Jewel there, this time last year, and that’s when she really springboarded herself into stardom. “It’s going to be so interesting to watch.” View the full article

Tony McEvoy can’t explain it, but he’s certain his talented galloper Rue De Royale (NZ) (Per Incanto) has a different strut after breaking his maiden at his ninth start at Bendigo. Prior to the hollow win over 1300m, Rue De Royale was considered Australia’s best maiden galloper as in his previous eight starts, he had earned $650,000 and finished second three times in the Group 2 VRC Sires’ Produce Stakes, the $1 million Golden Gift and the $2m Inglis Millenium. In the Bendigo race, John Allen took Rue De Royale straight to the front and he toyed with his rivals before going on to win by two-and-a-quarter lengths eased up. “He’s taken a lot of confidence from that win. It’s hard to explain but if they win, they are up and about a bit more,” McEvoy said. “It was so nice to see him dominate what will prove to be a very good maiden,” McEvoy said. Rue De Royale will step up in class and distance again when he tackles the G2 Stutt Stakes at The Valley on Friday night. “He’s trained on well. We’ve stepped up his work,” he said. McEvoy pointed out that The Valley track won’t hold any fears for Rue De Royale. “He finished fourth in The Banner at his first start. Earlier in the year we took him to The Valley for a gallop with Veight and he galloped as well as him,” he said. McEvoy said he and his son Calvin will work out what to do with Rue De Royale after he starts on Friday night, with the Caulfield Guineas looming as a possibility, while a trip to New Zealand to contest the G1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton on November 9 is also a possibility. Next year the McEvoys are also considering starting him in the inaugural running of The Kiwi, NZ’s newest slot race which will be held on March 8 with prizemoney of more than NZ$3 million, as it’s restricted to three-year-olds who were bred there. Allen will ride Rue De Royale in the Stutt Stakes, where he is an $11 chance. View the full article

Skew Wiff’s (NZ) (Savabeel) quest to double her winning tally at the highest level hasn’t been helped at Hastings by an awkward gate. The high-class daughter of Savabeel is likely to need luck to fall her way if she is to add Saturday’s Gr.1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m) to her record that features victory in last season’s Gr.1 Tarzino Trophy. Skew Wiff was game when fourth in her defence of that title on the opening day of the carnival and has done well since, but barrier 12 has done her no favours. “She has drawn out again, which is a hinderance and that and the mile is the only query,” said Sam Bergerson, who trains the mare in partnership with Mark Walker. “It’s a very tricky start there and we’re probably of the opinion that she is a better 1400m horse, but to be fair she was Group One-placed at a mile in the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes as a three-year-old. “We’ll have to map out a plan as to how we ride, fortunately enough we’ve got Opie (Bosson) on her. He knows her so well, it’s a massive plus having him aboard. “It is a very winnable race for her, she’s absolutely flying at home and we just need some luck from the barrier.” Te Akau also suffered a blow ahead of the Gr.2 AHD Animal Health Direct – Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m) with Snitzel colt Unbridled Joy ruled out. “He banged his leg on Wednesday afternoon, it’s nothing major so he’ll go to Matamata next week for a three-year-old race as long as he continues to improve,” Bergerson said. The stable’s Guineas chances will now rest on the shoulders of Captured By Love, who was second when resuming in the Gr.3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m). “Her first-up run was pretty good, obviously she put on a bit of a performance before the start and we just put that down to the small saddle and she was very fresh,” Bergerson said. “She has certainly gone the right way since and Opie galloped her on Wednesday and he was really pleased with her work. “She has got a bit of a niggly gate and we’ll be positive, Warren has rode her as two-year-old so he knows her. “Obviously, she is up against the boys but is probably a deserved favourite off her Gold Trail run and she looks fantastic.” Bergerson is also looking forward to the return of multiple stakes winner and Group One performer Wild Night in the Robyn MacTaggart Cup (1300m). “Obviously, he’s a horse that has struggled soundness-wise in the past and fair play to the team at home who have done a fantastic job with him,” he said. “He looks the best he has ever looked and is a happy and bright horse, fingers crossed he can rediscover the top three-year-old form he had.” Resuming Taupo winner Trobriand is another in grand order for the NZB Ready to Run Trainers Series Premier (1200m). “He was really good first-up and he’s drawn the outside again so he’ll need luck, but he has been in really good form at home,” Bergerson said. Te Akau will also have a big team engaged at Te Rapa on Friday and Bergerson tipped My Lips Are Sealed as a value each way chance in the Craigs Investment Partners Handicap (1400m). “The Wexford mare (Lux Libertas) is going really but, but My Lips Are Sealed won nicely at Matamata and she’s trained on really well,” he said. “There’s a bit of rain forecast on race morning, which would make it interesting and she’s one that gets through wet ground. “She’s got a nice, soft draw and I quite like her as a smokie in what is a strong field.” View the full article

Teddy Ladouceur has added his name to the growing list of successful expat Mauritian jockeys in New Zealand when riding home his first winner at Phar Lap Raceway on Wednesday. The 29-year-old hoop was confident from the jump aboard Strong (NZ) (Highly Recommended) in the Equine Veterinary Services Maiden 2200, taking the gelding straight to the front where they dictated terms throughout. Strong came under pressure in the concluding stages but responded to the urgings of Ladouceur to win by a neck over Our Princess Boot. “It was amazing to break the ice. I have been working hard and have been unlucky a few times,” Ladouceur said. Ladouceur was rapt to get the win, but said it was made even more special to do it on his home track for his employer Bruce Tapper. “It is my home track and it was the perfect moment to break the ice,” he said. “The last time I rode him we finished second. I had a good feeling riding him in work and my trainer was happy with him. I didn’t make a mistake on him and it was great to get my first win.” Becoming a jockey has been a lifelong ambition for Ladouceur, who began his riding career in his homeland before moving to New Zealand to further his riding career. “I am from Mauritius and I worked for a trainer there,” he said. “I was a track work rider and then I got a chance to become a jockey. I started to ride in Mauritius and then I came here (New Zealand) to improve, and it is great to get my first win here. “I always wanted to be a jockey, but I was a bit too heavy, but over the years I worked hard (to get on top of my weight).” While Ladouceur is enjoying his time in New Zealand, he said the cold winters have taken a bit to get used to coming from the warmer climes of Mauritius. “The winter was a bit tough for me in the beginning, but I have got used to the local weather now,” he said. Ladouceur is pleased to have got on the board as a jockey and is hoping he can add to his win tally in the near future. “I just need to improve myself, get more rides and more winners,” he said. View the full article

Stephen Marsh believes the El Vencedor (NZ) (Shocking) that is heading to Hastings for Saturday’s Gr.1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m) is barely recognisable as the same horse that has competed during the Hawke’s Bay Spring Carnival in previous seasons. The son of Shocking was very much a work in progress when he lined up in the Gr.2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m) on this day three years ago. Stepping straight into stakes company only two weeks after his maiden win at Taupo, he finished at the tail of the field behind Mana Nui. El Vencedor returned for last year’s carnival and picked up a pair of fourth placings, including in the Gr.3 Spring Sprint (1400m). Those races served as a springboard into a career-best season as a five-year-old, winning the Gr.1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) and Gr.3 Eagle Technology Stakes (1600m) along with seconds in the Gr.1 Thorndon Mile (1600m) and Listed Fulton Family Stakes (1500m), a third in the Gr.2 Rich Hill Mile (1600m) and a fourth in the Gr.1 Otaki-Maori WFA Classic (1600m). “He just seems so much mature,” Marsh said. “He’s really developed into the complete racehorse now. I’m looking forward to seeing him run in the Arrowfield on Saturday, and then I’d expect him to be ready to step up to 2000m for the Livamol (Gr.1).” El Vencedor resumed in a 1400m open handicap at Ruakaka on September 7, carrying 60kg into a close fourth behind Arrowfield rival Malt Time. “He ran a terrific race first-up,” Marsh said. “Not much went right for him in the running and he had a big weight, so it was a performance that had a lot of merit. “We sent him up there mainly to build his fitness, and that race has really brought him on a lot. He looks like getting track conditions to suit on Saturday, and going up to the mile will be ideal.” El Vencedor has an outstanding record second-up, recording two wins and a placing from four starts in that state. The TAB has him prominent in the Arrowfield market as a $6 third favourite behind Skew Wiff ($4.20) and Malt Time ($5). “He’s terrific second-up, and I think gate five is probably a perfect draw for him,” Marsh said. “I couldn’t be any happier with him and I’m expecting him to run very well.” El Vencedor is one of two runners at Hastings on Saturday for Marsh, who will also saddle Super Photon in the Gr.2 AHD Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m). The Super Seth colt won the Listed Waikato Equine Veterinary Centre 2YO Stakes (1400m) in a perfect two-from-two campaign as an autumn two-year-old, and his two starts this spring have produced a second behind Savaglee at Taupo and a close fourth in the Listed El Roca-Sir Colin Meads Trophy (1400m) on the opening day of the carnival. “He might have been a bit on the fresh side first-up, and then he didn’t really have any luck on the first day of the carnival at Hastings,” Marsh said. “He had a sticky gate and was caught wide with no cover, but he still got to the line well. “He’s gone the right way since then, and getting up over 1400m is going to suit him. He won over 1400m as a two-year-old. “We were sweating on the barrier draw for him, but he’s drawn nicely this time in gate two. He should be very competitive.” Marsh also has a strong hand in Friday’s meeting at Te Rapa, including highly promising three-year-olds Kiwi Skyhawk and Love Poem. The 1200m three-year-old race at this Te Rapa meeting has been a successful one for Marsh over the years, winning it with the likes of subsequent Group Two winner Sumstreetsumwhere and Mega Bourbon, while subsequent trans-Tasman star Atishu was a placegetter in 2020. Kiwi Skyhawk brings a promising record into this year’s edition of the SJC Foundation 3YO (1200m). The Contributer gelding ran third on debut over this course and distance behind Lux Libertas, who has now won four in a row. In his only start since then, Kiwi Skyhawk stepped up to 1400m and won stylishly on August 10. “We think he’s well above average,” Marsh said. “We’ve freshened him after that last win. The 1200m this week will be short of his best, but he’s a classy horse. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he won, but he doesn’t have to, especially over 1200m. He could carry on down to Christchurch for the 2000 Guineas (Gr.1, 1600m), but a bit further down the track I see him as a real Derby (Gr.1, 2400m) horse.” Love Poem will make her first start in maiden company in Friday’s NZB Mega Maiden Bonus Series Maiden (1200m). The Snitzel filly had three starts last season for three placings, all in stakes company. She ran second in the Gr.3 Taranaki 2YO Classic (1200m), third in the Gr.2 Matamata Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) and second in the Listed Star Way Stakes (1200m). “She’s a lovely filly and is coming up well,” Marsh said. “She’s had the trial to prepare her for this. “I’m hoping that this will be a stepping stone towards races like the Soliloquy (Gr.3, 1400m) and the 1000 Guineas (Gr.1, 1600m).” View the full article

What Lismore Races Where Lismore Turf Club – 9A Woodlawn Rd, North Lismore NSW 2480 When Friday, September 27, 2024 First Race 12:34pm AEST Visit Dabble Country racing heads to the Northern Rivers region of NSW on Friday afternoon, with the Lismore Turf Club playing host to a bumper eight-part program. The rail is out +2.5m between the 950m to 300m markers, while the rail is out +1.5m in the final 300m to winning post. The track is rated a Good 4 at the time of acceptances for Lismore Cup Day; however, with rainfall likely to hit the course proper throughout the meeting, punters can expect the surface to be deteriorating after each race. All the action is scheduled to get underway at 12:34pm AEST. Lismore Cup Tip: Point Counterpoint After a year off the scene, Point Counterpoint hit the line well first-up at Moree on September 1 and should strip fitter for this second-up assignment. The son of Bull Point didn’t seem to be hindered by the big weight (62.5kg) on that occasion but found the 1400m too sharp on the firming surface. The seven-year-old should be suited by the shifting ground this time around, and although Ben Looker will need to navigate a passage from barrier 11, Point Counterpoint has strong claims as he attempts to book his ticket to the Big Dance (1600m) later in the spring. Lismore Cup Race 7 – #2 Point Counterpoint (11) 7yo Gelding | T: Stirling Osland | J: Ben Looker (61.5kg) Bet with Neds Best Bet at Lismore: Wheeper The Chris Anderson-trained Wheeper debuts on the back of three impressive barrier trials and looks to have found a winnable first-up assignment. The three-year-old gelding won two of his three jump-outs and looked to be doing it all rather comfortably as he heads to the races for the first time. He needs to overcome barrier 12, but provided Michael Hellyer can find cover in the early stages, Wheeper should be charging down the centre of the course to claim victory. Best Bet Race 4 – #12 Wheeper (12) 3yo Gelding | T: Chris Anderson | J: Michael Hellyer (56.5kg) Bet with Picklebet Next Best at Lismore: Perri Lass Perri Lass was only getting warm as she passed the post at Muswellbrook on September 10 and should appreciate stepping out to the 2100m for the first time. The Kris Lees-trained mare was unsuited to the Good 4 surface on that occasion, and based on her dominant win at Taree prior, it seems to suggest the sting out of the ground should prove ideal. Andrew Mallyon should get the charmed run from barrier one, and provided he can get off the inside when the whips are cracking, Perri Lass should be chalking up her second-career victory. Next Best Race 2 – #8 Perri Lass (1) 4yo Mare | T: Kris Lees | J: Andrew Mallyon (57kg) Bet with Dabble Friday quaddie tips for Lismore Lismore quadrella selections September 27, 2024 1-6-7-10 1-3-4-8-13 2-3-4-6-10 1-2-3-15 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

What Belmont races Where Belmont Racecourse – Saintly Entrance, Burswood WA 6100 When Saturday, September 28, 2024 First Race 12:19pm AWST Visit Dabble The Listed Black Heart Bart Stakes will headline the nine-race meeting at Belmont Park this Saturday afternoon, with the opening race scheduled to jump at 12:19pm AWST. Although the track was rated as a Good 4 at the time of acceptances, there is a lot of rain forecast to fall on Friday, which will cause a downgrade to the Soft range by raceday. The rail will be pushed out to the +5m position for the entire circuit. Black Heart Bart Stakes tip: Phanta Phanta returned from a 17-week spell with a brave effort in the Nicopolis Stakes at this track and trip, where the Chris & Michael Gangemi-trained gelding finished second behind Man Crush. This son of Gingerbread Man led the field up with a massive weight (61kg) and was only run over by the runner that settled behind him throughout. Now that he strikes a wet track and will have taken fitness benefit from his fresh run, Phanta can go one better in the feature. Black Heart Bart Stakes Race 8 – #5 Phanta (2) 7yo Gelding | T: Chris & Michael Gangemi | J: Jarrad Noske (57.5kg) +750 with PlayUp Best Bet at Belmont: Pin Deep After having his winning streak halted at three, Pin Deep will gain the services of William Pike this weekend as he returns to the track and trip. The Adam Durrant-trained gelding was dominant two starts back when winning by four lengths at Northam but he appeared to peak on his run in his recent start and was beaten by Real Deluxe. If Pike can settle behind the speed from barrier four and hold onto him for one final sprint at the 200m mark, Pin Deep will return to the winner’s circle. Best Bet Race 3 – #2 Pin Deep (4) 4yo Gelding | T: Adam Durrant | J: William Pike (59kg) +160 with Picklebet Next Best at Belmont: Toropa It is hard to go past the unbeaten Toropa in the final race of the day, as the Vernon Brockman-prepared mare takes on a similar field that she defeated at the track and trip on September 7. The daughter of Toronado was slightly held up halfway down the straight before getting into clear to finish strongly and record a 1.3-length win over Sentimental Belle. Although she meets the runner-up again and has a 1kg weight swing going against her, Toropa can settle close to the speed and gain an advantage on her key rivals early in the contest. Next Best Race 9 – #7 Toropa (11) 4yo Mare | T: Vernon Brockman | J: Brad Parnham (55.5kg) +270 with Neds Best Value at Belmont: Pearl King Pearl King was just nosed out on his debut at Bunbury over 1200m when the Michael Grantham-trained colt flashed home from midfield but missed the bob on the finish line. The son of Zoustar had to weave a passage between runners to get into clear running, and even though he lost the race, he showed brilliant turn of foot to figure in the finish. Pearl King was heavily backed with horse racing bookmakers on debut, and now that we are getting double-figures second-up, he is a great each-way play. Best Value Race 2 – #7 Pearl King (7) 3yo Colt | T: Michael Grantham | J: Joseph Azzopardi (56kg) +1300 with Dabble Saturday quaddie tips for Belmont races Belmont quadrella selections Saturday, September 28, 2024 1-2-4 3-4-9 1-5-6-9-10 1-6-7 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

What Sha Tin Races Where Sha Tin Racecourse – Tai Po Rd, Sha Tin District, Hong Kong When Saturday, September 28, 2024 First Race 1pm HKT (3pm AEST) Visit Dabble Hong Kong racing returns to Sha Tin on Saturday afternoon, with a competitive 10-race program set for decision. The rail is in the C course for all turf race, and with no significant rainfall on the radar, punters can expect a genuine Good 4 surface throughout the afternoon. All the action is scheduled to get underway at 1pm local time. Best Bet at Sha Tin: Bottomuptogether Bottomuptogether is first-up after securing a hat-trick of wins last preparation and should prove extremely hard to beat in this Class 3 contest. The son of Sheamus Award won by a combined 5.6 lengths across his three victories and hasn’t looked in any danger of relinquishing his undefeated record. Zac Purton will be looking to slide across and lead from barrier eight, and provided he can get to the front with relative, Bottomuptogether will simply prove a class above as he searches for tougher future assignments. Best Bet Race 7 – #1 Bottomuptogether (8) 4yo Gelding | T: Frankie Lor | J: Zac Purton (61kg) Bet with Neds Next Best at Sha Tin: Fighting Machine Fighting Machine was only narrowly defeated by Amazing Run in a ding-dong battle first-up at this course and distance on September 8. He drew barrier 10 on that occasion and was forced to navigate a passage between gallopers, while the eventual winner got clear air down the centre of the course. He gets gate five this time around, and with Zac Purton likely to lob into the one-one, Fighting Machine should prove hard to hold out second-up. Next Best Race 5 – #2 Fighting Machine (5) 5yo Gelding | T: Pierre Ng | J: Zac Purton (61kg) Bet with Picklebet Best Value at Sha Tin: Jumbo Legend Jumbo Legend was luckless first-up at Sha Tin on September 8 and should’ve finished much closer than the 3.5-length margin may suggest. The son of Hinchinbrook bombed the start before searching for rails runs in the final 400m, with no gaps eventuating for the six-year-old gelding. He draws gate six with the experienced Luke Ferraris in the saddle, and provided he can leave the barriers with them this time around, Jumbo Legend can make amends at a good price with horse racing bookmakers. Best Value Race 6 – #1 Jumbo Legend (6) 6yo Gelding | T: Caspar Fownes | J: Luke Ferraris (61kg) Bet with Dabble Saturday quaddie tips for Sha Tin Sha Tin quadrella selections September 28, 2024 1 2-3-4-6-8 2-6-7-8-11-12 1-2-3-6-8-9-12 Horse racing tips View the full article

What Golden Rose Day 2024 Where Rosehill Gardens Racecourse – James Ruse Dr, Rosehill NSW 2142 When Saturday, September 28, 2024 First Race 11:55am AEST Visit Dabble The three-year-olds take centre stage at Rosehill on Saturday afternoon, with the Group 1 Golden Rose (1400m) headlining a bumper 10-race program. The $1 million feature is stacked with quality, along with a mouthwatering undercard, leaving punters with an outstanding day of racing. The rail is in the true position the entire circuit, and with some significant rainfall likely to hit the course proper in the lead-up, participants can expect the track to fall somewhere in the Soft range for race-day. The opening event is scheduled to get underway at 11:55am local time. Race 1: BM72 Midway Handicap (1300m) The Extreme Cat gets the nod in what appears to be one of the tougher races of the day to dissect. The Nathan Doyle-trained gelding is already a two-time winner this preparation and was unlucky not to make it a hat-trick last time out, forced to be dragged back from a wide barrier at this track on August 17. James McDonald elects to stick, and from barrier seven this time around, The Extreme Cat should get every chance to return to the winners’ enclosure. Selections: 4 THE EXTREME CAT 18 ALABAMA STATE 12 UNIQUE AMBITION 2 PEACE OFFICER Race 2: Class 2 Highway Handicap (1500m) Everido was tested in Highway company at this course on September 14 and gave a good account of himself. He was no match for Awaygoesthebunny but hit the line at only his second start of the campaign. He’ll strip fitter for that effort, and dropping back into Class 2 should be ideal. Dylan Gibbons will need to find some cover from barrier 12, but provided Everido can land in a prominent position, watch for this guy to be bounding clear of his rivals in this wide-open Highway contest. Selections: 1 EVERIDO 3 MARENARO 4 STRAIGHT FIRE 15 DUE CALZINI Race 3: Group 3 Colin Stephen Quality (2400m) Eight stayers line up in the Group 3 Colin Stephen Quality (2400m) and you can make a case for all eight of them. The Chris Waller-trained Strathtay gets the verdict, however, with his adaptability on wet ground. He has a terrific record on rain affected ground, with 11 starts for four wins, two of which came earlier in the preparation. He’s rock hard fit for this 2400m contest, and with the five-year-old likely needing to win this to earn his spot in next Saturday’s Group 1 Metropolitan Handicap (2400m), it would come as a shock if he doesn’t figure in the finish. Selections: 2 STRATHTAY 1 CHANGINGOFTHEGUARD 5 FIRST LIGHT 7 CAMPALDINO Colin Stephen Quality Race 3 – #2 Strathtay (4) 5yo Gelding | T: Chris Waller | J: Jay Ford (54kg) +230 with Neds Race 4: BM88 Handicap (1900m) Unusual Legacy is flying third-up into the campaign and looks to be on deck to claim his sixth win at start nine. The son of Unusual Suspect was ultra-impressive last time out, rounding his rivals up from last to score by a length at this course on September 14. The extra 100m this time should be ideal, and provided Kerrin McEvoy can get off the inside from barrier two, Unusual Legacy should be winning and proving himself to be a live light-weight chance in next Saturday’s Metropolitan Handicap. Selections: 8 UNUSUAL LEGACY 12 MARE OF MT BULLER 9 LINCOLN ROCKS 7 FIRESTORM Next Best Race 4 – #8 Unusual Legacy (2) 5yo Gelding | T: Chris Waller | J: Kerrin McEvoy (58kg) +210 with Playup Race 5: Listed Heritage Stakes (1100m) Bodyguard returns after a 189-day spell, and although he’s only had one barrier trial leading into the Listed Heritage Stakes (1100m), the Peter Snowden-trained colt appears ready to strike first-up. He was roused along at Rosehill on September 16 to score by six lengths, bounding away when asked to extend by Tommy Berry. Gate five allows Berry to dictate terms or take a sit in behind depending on the shape of the race, and with one of his two wins a dominant victory on rain affected ground, Bodyguard should have no issues getting through the testing conditions. Selections: 1 BODYGUARD 3 GATSBY’S 6 IKASARA 2 ALTHOFF Heritage Stakes Race 5 – #1 Bodyguard (5) 3yo Colt | T: Peter Snowden | J: Tommy Berry (58.5kg) +340 with Dabble Race 6: BM88 Handicap (1400m) Glory Daze represents terrific each-way value with online bookmakers as he returns after 196 days off the scene. The Ciaron Maher-trained gelding is a three-time winner across his seven Australian starts, and although the 1400m may be short of his best trip, conditions should be ideal for the son of Cotai Glory. He trialled like a bomb at Hawkesbury on September 17 heading into this wide-open BM88 contest, and with Molly Bourke taking 2kg off his back after the claim, Glory Daze looks perfectly placed to get back to winning ways. Selections: 1 GLORY DAZE 13 KONASANA 4 ZOOLOGY 18 CHICA MOJITO Best Value Race 6 – #1 Glory Daze (14) 5yo Gelding | T: Ciaron Maher | J: Molly Bourke (a2kg) (63kg) +1100 with Bet Race 7: Group 2 Golden Pendant (1400m) The Ciaron Maher-trained Semana will be hoping the rain continues to fall leading into the Group 2 Golden Pendant (1400m). The daughter of Winning Rupert brings impeccable wet form, striking at 50-percent on rain affected ground. She held ground behind the likes of Via Sistina and Fangirl first-up in the Group 1 Winx Stakes (1400m) on August 28, and with this a far more favourable setup, Semana can hold off Amelia’s Jewel thanks to a 3kg swing in the weights. Selections: 4 SEMANA 2 AMELIA’S JEWEL 7 ARCTIC GLAMOUR 6 MAKARENA Golden Pendant Race 7 – #4 Semana (6) 5yo Mare | T: Ciaron Maher | J: Dylan Gibbons (55kg) +160 with Picklebet Race 8: Group 1 Golden Rose (1400m) The Godolphin blue have a stranglehold on the 2024 Golden Rose according to horse racing bookmakers, with the returning Broadsiding holding the call as $3.30 favourite for the three-year-old feature. Stable companion Traffic Warden ($4.00) isn’t far behind on the second line of betting, while Storm Boy ($4.60) and Linebacker ($6.50) have admirers. Can the multiple Group 1 winning colt make history first-up? Or is there an upset brewing? Click here for our full preview of the 2024 Golden Rose Race 9: Group 2 Shannon Stakes (1500m) Celestial Legend should take major benefit after his first-up performance in the Group 2 Theo Marks Stakes (1300m). The son of Dundeel was left flat-footed at the top of the straight but picked up nicely in the final furlong to suggest he’d appreciate a step up in trip. He gets to his best trip on suitable wet track conditions second-up and provided Kerrin McEvoy can hold a position from barrier two, Celestial Legend can get back to winning ways to claim the 2024 Group 2 Shannon Stakes (1500m). Selections: 1 CELESTIAL LEGEND 13 TANNHAUSER 7 NEW ENERGY 14 AMOR VICTORIOUS Shannon Stakes Race 9 – #1 Celestial Legend (2) 4yo Horse | T: Les Bridge | J: Kerrin McEvoy (59kg) +400 with Boombet Race 10: BM78 Handicap (1100m) Pharari put to bed any notion she’s a wet track specialist at Sandown on September 4, cruising to victory by 2.8 lengths, smashing the clock in the process. The Ciaron Maher-trained mare heads to Sydney for the first time and looks to have found an ideal setup in the final event, drawing barrier two from the 1100m starting point. Mark Zahra will press forward, attempting to make every post a winner, and if she can replicate what she did last time out, Pharari should simply prove too classy for this lot. Selections: 11 PHARARI 13 CONFESS OUR DREAMS 8 BONITA QUEEN 12 CAVALLO RAMPANTE Best Bet Race 10 – #11 Pharari (2) 4yo Mare | T: Ciaron Maher | J: Mark Zahra (56.5kg) +180 with Neds Golden Rose Day quaddie tips for Rosehill Rosehill quadrella selections Saturday, September 28 2-4 1-2-3-4 1-4-7-13-14 8-10-11-12-13 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Race 3 WAIPA EARTHWORKS MAIDEN 1300m I’M OUT THE GATE (C Grylls) – Stable representative Mr. R Mildon reported to Stewards, that on Friday 20 September, I’M OUT THE GATE, underwent a veterinarian examination which revealed the filly showing signs of being shin sore. R Mildon further advised I’M OUT THE GATE will now be sent for a spell. The post Waikato Thoroughbred Racing @ Cambridge Synthetic, Friday 20 September 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Bottomuptogether bids to make it four from four in Saturday’s Class Three Yan Chai Trophy (1,200m).View the full article

What was worth noting from the trials from all over the country for the week ending 26/9/2024 Wyndham Workouts-Saturday 21 September Race 1 – Styrax (5m Creatine – Larix) Trainer Mrs G McClymont Just the three runners faced the tape, and it turned into a two-horse affair with the talented Fiery Bandito leading Styrax for the last half of the heat. Both travelling well at the line with Styrax arguably travelling just as well behind the six-race winner at the line. Although a maiden from 14 attempts to date, suggested has come back nicely from her spell and will be hard to beat in her own grade on resumption. Race 4 – Saucy Delight (3g Bettor’s Delight – Saucycullen) Trainer C R Ferguson This nice upstanding son of Bettor’s Delight showed gate speed to lead and turned the heat into a procession there after. Dashed his last half in 56.9 and the final quarter in 28.3, he still had time to briefly check out the golfers on the first hole up the straight! Look out for his race debut in the near future. Mid Canterbury TOA- Ashburton Tuesday 24 September Race 1 – Catchafire (2g Bettor’s Delight – Sabellian) Trainer S J Boyd Attending his third trial in addition to a couple of workouts, the yet unraced gelding began well to trail the leader until just inside the 1000m mark when John Morrison took him to the front. Just collared in the last stride by Bettor Go Vinnie (4th in the NZ Sapling Stakes earlier this year), with race winner Renaldo running on well for third. Appears to be learning with each run so well worth a look when he makes his race debut. Race 5 – Yaldhurst Folly (4g Auckland Reactor – Volatile Lavra) Trainer R A Kennedy Qualified two weeks ago so stepping out in public for just the second time. Began slowly but safely from the stand and raced in fourth place before Ricky May grabbed the one-one with around 600m to go. Hooked out halfway down the straight and quickened impressively to win going away by 2 lengths at the line under his own steam. Looks a promising type. Race 7 – Lester (6g Bettor’s Delight – Alchemist) Trainer W E Stapleton. Back from a brief let-up having last raced in the middle of June. Raced in third spot for the trip and wasn’t pulled off the back of the eventual winner (To Ri Ruby) at any stage up the straight by driver Kimberley Butt, and went to the line under a strong grip. Looks to have come back in fine fettle and although he will be in a competitive grade, has always shown he has the game to mix it with them. Race 8 – Miles Away (4g Trixton – Not Likely) Trainer M R Tapper Hasn’t been sighted since the end of June, but stepped well and travelled kindly throughout for RT May. Switched to the inside of Penelope Hall in the last 150m and sprinted sharply to grab the win in the shadows of the post. Started career with a win on debut towards the end of last year, and despite only having had a further six starts, has always shown promise. Time likely to be his friend, but looks ready for his racetrack return in the coming weeks. North Canterbury TOA – Rangiora Wednesday 25 September Star Watch Race 2- Muscle Mountain – He’s Back! Trainer G and N Hope Our country’s best trotter resumed after a break of more than four months and showed he has lost none of his ability. Starting quickly from the back-mark of 30m, he settled fifth in single file for driver Ben Hope and remained there while Blair Orange set a moderate tempo on the leader Mystic Max. Asked to improve by Hope inside the final 800m of the trial, he levelled up to the leader turning for home and asserted his superiority late to win narrowly but well. Overall time was 3.20.0 for the 2600m, with an excellent 56.8 for the last half, and 28.7 for the last 400m. Mystic Max was good in second with the promising Father Time making good ground for fourth and although winning his last two starts, hasn’t finished winning yet. Race 5- Don’t Stop Dreaming – The Journey Starts Here! Trainer M and N Purdon The equal second favourite for the IRT New Zealand Trotting Cup in November took his first steps towards the holy grail in Heat 5, a mobile 2000m trial. Taken back from the start by Blair Orange, the champion pacer settled last of the six runners as the Ken Barron-trained Toby Tom B dictated terms for Sam Thornley. Asked to stretch out under his own steam up the straight, he closed stylishly to finish third, beaten a half head and a neck by stablemate Moments Like This, and Toby Tom B. Although the overall time was a moderate 2.30.8, they came home in a smart 56.1, with the final quarter in 29.0. Best of The Rest Race 3 Lochdarragh (3g Locharburn – Rock Me Gently) Trainer K K Chapman Began well to lead and remained there for the duration, winning untouched in the hands of Robbie Close. Slow overall time of 3.26.4 for the 2600m stand, but it was the professional manner of the performance that impressed. The runner up was Premier who ran third on debut at Oamaru recently behind Rubira. Kevin Chapman has schooled the horse well at trials and workouts and should therefore be ready to rock n roll when he lines up for the first time on race day. Race 4 – The Lazarus Effect (3g Lazarus – Brook Street) Trainer R J Butt Wow, just wow! Only had the one workout prior to today (when he beat the aforementioned Lochdarragh), this son of Lazarus was taken off the arm from the 2000m starting point and settled midfield for trainer/driver Bob Butt. Stayed fifth until around the 600m when he got a drag into the race behind the Kerry Hadfield-trained Royal Belle (good run for second), and unwound strongly to win going away by more than three lengths. Paced the trip in 2.29.0, a mile rate of 1.59.8, last 800 in 57.6 and the quarter in 28.5. The large group of owners will be having some serious fun with this bloke. Race 7 – Bettor Fortune (2g Bettor’s Delight – Fortune Lover) Trainer D J Keast Taken to the rear of the field from his wide draw by driver Robbie Holmes, the son of Bettor’s Delight remained last of nine, before improving with just under a lap from home. Dropped three back the fence inside the 800m and sprinted nicely up the straight when the gaps presented to finish a close third behind the Dunn trained Celestial Sea. Has only had the one race start back in May in a hot 2-year old field at Addington behind Got The Chocolates, then spelled, and this was his third trial back, so will be close to a racetrack return. The Darren Keast team is starting to fire up, so would pay to follow this horse especially if starting in a maiden race anytime soon. To see previous Trials Reports click here View the full article

The Good Fight winning the 2024 Grand National Steeplechase (4500m) at Ballarat. Photo: Brett Holburt (Racing Photos) Racing Victoria (RV) has today unveiled plans for its 2024 Jumps Racing Review, marking a significant departure from previous years due to heightened safety concerns following an increase in fatal incidents during the season. Since the implementation of major safety improvements in 2010, the annual Jumps Review Panel has been pivotal in assessing Victoria’s jumps racing season, prioritising safety and participation. This year, however, RV has announced a more comprehensive approach, expanding the scope to include a holistic evaluation of various metrics. Leading this expanded review is the newly formed Jumps Review Group (JRG), chaired by RV’s Executive General Manager – Integrity, Jamie Stier. Justice Jack Forrest, former Victorian Racing Integrity Board Chair and Supreme Court Judge, joins as an independent member. Their mandate includes examining the future viability of jumps racing in Victoria and proposing further safety enhancements. Key areas of investigation for the JRG include: Assessing findings from the 2024 Jumps Review Panel. Reviewing broader equine welfare research to address jumps fatalities and injuries. Analysing trends in starters, field sizes, wagering, and industry participation. Evaluating club and track infrastructure to ensure racecourse durability and availability. Studying optimal track conditions and their impact on racing safety. Considering horse engagement, longevity, and career opportunities in jumps racing. Examining the role of jumps jockeys in the broader racing community. Reviewing financial implications for participants, clubs, and the Victorian Thoroughbred Racing Industry. Assessing community engagement and economic benefits associated with jumps racing events. Gauging public acceptance and its impact on thoroughbred racing’s appeal. The JRG aims to deliver its comprehensive report and recommendations to the RV Executive by late November 2024. RV Chairman Tim Eddy emphasised the urgency of the review, acknowledging the tragic incidents of the past season and underscoring the commitment to ensuring the safety and sustainability of jumps racing in Victoria. “The safety lapses observed in the 2024 jumps racing season are deeply concerning to everyone in the Victorian racing community. Despite significant strides made in previous years, recent setbacks necessitate a thorough reevaluation,” stated Chairman Eddy. “The Jumps Review Group’s mandate is clear: to explore every facet of jumps racing, from safety protocols to community perceptions, leaving no stone unturned in our quest for improvement.” The findings of this review will be pivotal in shaping the future of jumps racing in Victoria, with the ultimate goal of safeguarding both participants and the integrity of the sport. Horse racing news View the full article

Group 1 winner, Veight. (Photo by Reg Ryan/Racing Photos) Tony and Calvin McEvoy’s star colt, Veight, is set for his return in Friday’s Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m) at The Valley, marking his first race since winning the Group 1 George Ryder Stakes (1500m) in March. Veight has been in training for over 15 weeks, which Tony McEvoy admitted is a long preparation for a sprinter, especially first-up. However, McEvoy stressed they wanted Veight in top form for the race, with a potential win shaping the colt’s future as a stallion. As part of his preparation, Veight completed two gallops at The Valley, two trials at Cranbourne, and an additional ‘away gallop’ near McEvoy’s Ballarat stable. “He’s not a good trial horse and his first trial looked very plain, and then to trial like he did the other day behind that fast 1000-metre stakes winner (Katsu) was exceptionally good,” McEvoy remarked. “He bounced out of it and Jarrod Lorensini, who rides him all the time, said he’s never felt better. “I think all the signs are he’s as good as he can be and probably as good as he ever has been.” Horse racing news View the full article

Evaporate will contest the Group 2 Stutt Stakes (1600m) at Moonee Valley on Friday. Photo: Bruno Cannatelli Lindsay Park’s Evaporate, trained by Ben Hayes in partnership with his brothers Will and JD, aims to extend his winning streak to four in Friday night’s Group 2 Stutt Stakes (1600m) at Moonee Valley. The gelding, sired by Per Incanto out of Little Avondale, has triumphed in his last two outings at The Valley following his maiden victory at Cranbourne. “He just keeps improving, he’s got a good record at The Valley and I think it’s a good opportunity to head there. It will be a harder race, but he deserves to be tried in harder company,” Hayes commented. “The Valley’s a unique track, not all horses like it, and I think it’s a good opportunity for good prize-money and it’s one of the lead-ups to the (Caulfield) Guineas, so it keeps the dream alive.” Horse racing news View the full article

What Toowoomba Weetwood Raceday 2024 Where Clifford Park Racecourse – Hursley Rd, Newtown QLD 4350 When Saturday, September 28, 2024 First Race 1:48pm AEST Visit Dabble The Listed Toowoomba Weetwood will headline proceedings at Clifford Park this Saturday afternoon, with a massive nine-race card set down for decision. The track was rated as a Good 4 at the time of acceptances; however, with rain forecast on each day in the lead-up, expect the surface to deteriorate into the Soft range by raceday. The rail will be in its true position for the entire circuit, with racing set to get underway at 1:48pm AEST. Toowoomba Weetwood tip: Yellow Brick Yellow Brick will return from a 16-week spell in the feature race of the day, with the benefit of a strong barrier trial win over 860m at Gatton under his belt. The Tony & Maddysen Sears-trained gelding was last seen winning the Listed Spear Chief Handicap at Eagle Farm before going out for a break. Although the son of The Mission has to give his rivals 3kg or more in this contest, he is class horse of the race and should have no troubles carrying the weight. If James Orman can settle in the first four, Yellow Brick will prove very hard to beat. Toowoomba Weetwood Race 8 – #1 Yellow Brick (4) 5yo Gelding | T: Tony & Maddysen Sears | J: James Orman (60.5kg) +270 with Picklebet Toowoomba Cup tip: Red Wave After clashing with a number of his rivals at Doomben over 2000m last start, Red Wave from the Tony & Maddysen Sears stable will contest the Toowoomba Cup under better conditions. This son of Red Dazzler was slightly held up inside the eventual winner on the home turn before getting out late to finish off strongly and nab third place behind Caboche and Tidal Creek. With his main market rivals drawing wide barriers, Ryan Maloney can find the box seat from barrier three, and if Red Wave gets even luck from the 400m mark, he can flip the script and go a couple better. Toowoomba Cup Race 7 – #1 Red Wave (3) 6yo Gelding | T: Tony & Maddysen Sears | J: Ryan Maloney (60kg) +500 with Bet365 Best Bet at Toowoomba: Rich Minx Rich Minx has been ultra-impressive in her two recent victories, winning by a combined margin of 13.3 lengths at the Gold Coast and Doomben over 1110m and 1150m. The lightly raced Matthew Hoysted-trained mare led the field up in those victories before showing a clean pair of heels to run away from her rivals in the concluding stages. The daughter of Rich Enuff has the early speed to overcome the wide barrier (11) and settle on speed. If Andrew Mallyon can get her to settle early on, Rich Minx should prove too speedy in the final 300m. Best Bet Race 4 – #8 Rich Minx (11) 4yo Mare | T: Matthew Hoysted | J: Andrew Mallyon (58.5kg) +110 with PlayUp Next Best at Toowoomba: Set To Shine Tony Gollan has Set To Shine humming along nicely this preparation, as the five-year-old mare has won three of her last four starts and finished in the placings in all six of her runs this time in. This daughter of I Am Invincible recorded her most recent win at Doomben over 1350m, where she settled outside the leader and gave a strong kick with 300m to go to claim a half-length victory. Emily Lang has retained the ride, and with the benefit of her 3kg claim and an inside barrier (2), expect her to adopt similar tactics here. Next Best Race 2 – #7 Set To Shine (2) 5yo Mare | T: Tony Gollan | J: Emily Lang (a3) (55kg) +300 with Neds Saturday quaddie tips for Weetwood Raceday Toowoomba quadrella selections Saturday, September 28, 2024 2-3-4-5-13 1-4-7-8 1-3-10-12 2-4-6-10 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Stakes-winning mare Casino Princess (inside) has been retired. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Talented mare Casino Princess has been retired from racing. The six-year-old daughter of Casino Prince has been a model of consistency for her trainer Cliff Goss, winning six of her 13 starts, highlighted by an impressive victory in the Listed Tauranga Classic (1400m) in June. Earlier this month, the mare demonstrated all of her class to win an open mile at Matamata, but the race ended up being her swansong after bleeding for the second time in a limited racing career. “She bled in training and it was her second time,” Goss said. “The first time she bled, she went on to win five races afterwards, but she’s now ineligible to race in New Zealand.” While disappointed for the mare, Goss has plenty of fond memories to look back on with Casino Princess, particularly her most recent effort. “Her last win was a big highlight, she had a kid (apprentice jockey) on her and she tried very hard,” he said. “She wasn’t going to win, but she’s stuck her head out and wanted to get there. I would say that was her best performance, because she was just so determined. “She’s been one of the sweethearts of racing, she’s such a kind mare and you don’t get many like her. These good fillies can be a bit grumpy, but she was never that way, always trying to help you rather than pull away from you.” A black-type victory places Casino Princess in good stead for a career as a broodmare, with Goss indicating she will be sold with the assistance of Trelawney Stud, where his daughter Cherry Taylor is a Director and Bloodstock Advisor. “She’s gone over to Trelawney Stud today (Thursday) and she’s going to be put up for sale as a broodmare there,” Goss said. “She’ll be a nice broodmare, but I wouldn’t breed from her because I’m just too old now. “You have to wait three or four years to get a horse to race out of her once you start breeding, so I’ll try to sell her and she would be a lovely mare for anyone looking to buy her. “She only had 13 starts for six wins and was only out of the money twice in her career, she’s done a great job.” The nonagenarian trainer has no intention of slowing down with the retirement of his stable star, with the upcoming New Zealand Bloodstock Ready To Run Sales firmly on the agenda. “I’ve got a very nice El Roca three-year-old, he’s a good horse,” he said. “I am going to the Ready-To-Run Sales in November and I’ll hopefully find another like her, I’ll be looking for a filly there. Horse racing news View the full article

Wewillrock will line-up at Te Rapa on Friday. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Well-performed short course specialist Wewillrock gets a gilt-edged opportunity to add to his record on Friday as the end of his current campaign draws to a close. The son of El Roca will drop back from stakes company when he steps out at Te Rapa with apprentice Liam Kauri’s 3kg claim benefiting his cause. Wewillrock also has a strong record on the course, with three victories and a third placing in the Group 3 Cambridge Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) to his credit. His two unplaced runs on the track have come in the last two editions of the Group 2 Foxbridge Plate (1200m), although he was less than three and a-half lengths off the winner Bonny Lass last month. “He wasn’t far away in that field, they were in a different class really and this race suits him a lot better,” said Guy Lowry, who prepares the six-year-old with Leah Zydenbos. A drop back in company has the stable more confident about his prospects on Friday. “He’ll be a good chance and he’s been working well so fingers crossed for a good result,” Lowry said. “He’s got up in the weights quite quickly and probably only another win away from having to stick to weight-for-age.” Wewillrock has won seven of his 22 starts and is in the right order to take advantage of one of his remaining chances prior to a spell. “We’re just taking it one race at a time with him and he probably won’t be in for much longer before he has a break,” Lowry said. “He’s the sort of horse that enjoys the soft tracks, but not heavy. Either side of spring and autumn is his time.” The stable will also be represented by Anaroa and Eyegeegee on Friday. “Aneroa was disappointing here (Hastings) on the first day to be fair so we’re hoping he can turn things around on Friday,” Lowry said. Eyegeegee was also well back in his latest assignment on his home course, but didn’t have all favours in the running. Meanwhile, Lowry is expecting his best chance of success on the second day of the Hawke’s Bay Spring carnival. He will be represented by The Stoney One and Candle in the Rating 75 event on the Group One undercard. “The Stoney One probably needs a bit of give in the ground and Candle is definitely a strong chance,” he said. The former was unplaced on a good track on the first day of the meeting and has come on with that resuming outing while Candle was also out of the money after missing the start and finished off strongly in the run home. Horse racing news View the full article

Skew Wiff will line-up in Saturday’s Group 1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m) at Hastings. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Skew Wiff’s quest to double her winning tally at the highest level hasn’t been helped at Hastings by an awkward gate. The high-class daughter of Savabeel is likely to need luck to fall her way if she is to add Saturday’s Group 1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m) to her record that features victory in last season’s Group 1 Tarzino Trophy (1400m). Skew Wiff was game when fourth in her defence of that title on the opening day of the carnival and has done well since, but barrier 12 has done her no favours. “She has drawn out again, which is a hinderance and that and the mile is the only query,” said Sam Bergerson, who trains the mare in partnership with Mark Walker. “It’s a very tricky start there and we’re probably of the opinion that she is a better 1400m horse, but to be fair she was Group One-placed at a mile in the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes as a three-year-old. “We’ll have to map out a plan as to how we ride, fortunately enough we’ve got Opie (Bosson) on her. He knows her so well, it’s a massive plus having him aboard. “It is a very winnable race for her, she’s absolutely flying at home and we just need some luck from the barrier.” Te Akau also suffered a blow ahead of the Group 2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m) with Snitzel colt Unbridled Joy ruled out. “He banged his leg on Wednesday afternoon, it’s nothing major so he’ll go to Matamata next week for a three-year-old race as long as he continues to improve,” Bergerson said. The stable’s Guineas chances will now rest on the shoulders of Captured By Love, who was second when resuming in the Group 3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m). “Her first-up run was pretty good, obviously she put on a bit of a performance before the start and we just put that down to the small saddle and she was very fresh,” Bergerson said. “She has certainly gone the right way since and Opie galloped her on Wednesday and he was really pleased with her work. “She has got a bit of a niggly gate and we’ll be positive, Warren has rode her as two-year-old so he knows her. “Obviously, she is up against the boys but is probably a deserved favourite off her Gold Trail run and she looks fantastic.” Bergerson is also looking forward to the return of multiple stakes winner and Group One performer Wild Night. “Obviously, he’s a horse that has struggled soundness-wise in the past and fair play to the team at home who have done a fantastic job with him,” he said. “He looks the best he has ever looked and is a happy and bright horse, fingers crossed he can rediscover the top three-year-old form he had.” Resuming Taupo winner Trobriand is another in grand order. “He was really good first-up and he’s drawn the outside again so he’ll need luck, but he has been in really good form at home,” Bergerson said. Te Akau will also have a big team engaged at Te Rapa on Friday, and Bergerson tipped My Lips Are Sealed as a value each way chance. “The Wexford mare (Lux Libertas) is going really but, but My Lips Are Sealed won nicely at Matamata and she’s trained on really well,” he said. “There’s a bit of rain forecast on race morning, which would make it interesting and she’s one that gets through wet ground. “She’s got a nice, soft draw and I quite like her as a smokie in what is a strong field.” Horse racing news View the full article

What Sandown Stakes Day 2024 Where Sandown Racecourse – 591-659 Princes Hwy, Springvale VIC 3171 When Saturday, September 28, 2024 First Race 12:10pm AEST Visit Dabble Sandown’s Hillside track will host metro racing in Victoria this Saturday, with eight races set down for decision. The Group 3 Sandown Stakes (1500m) headlines the AFL Grand Final Day program on a deck which will likely begin as a Good 4 and stay that way throughout the day. The rail remains in its true position, with the Sandown races on September 28 set to commence at 12:10pm AEST. Sandown Stakes Tip: Desert Lightning Desert Lightning was massive in defeat in the Listed Chautauqua Stakes (1200m) first-up from a six-month spell. The five-year-old gelding travelled three wide with no cover at the rear of the field, only to go down by a length behind A Little Deep and subsequent Group 2 winner Arkansaw Kid. From barrier one, Luke Nolen will need a touch of luck in the home straight, but if the gap appears at the right time, Desert Lightning will be poised to strike. Sandown Stakes Race 7 – #1 Desert Lightning (1) 5yo Gelding | T: Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman | J: Luke Nolen (59.5kg) +450 with Dabble Best Bet at Sandown: Zloties Zloties could not have done much more in her two victories from as many starts this time in. The five-year-old mare returned at Geelong off a 131-week spell with a smart win and backed it up in equally impressive fashion at the Sandown Hillside 1300m. Everything she has done suggests that the 1400m will suit her perfectly, and with a genuinely run affair expected, the race sets up perfectly for Zloties to thunder home. Best Bet Race 3 – #7 Zloties (5) 5yo Mare | T: Grahame Begg | J: Jordan Childs (59kg) +200 with Neds Next Best at Sandown: Sugar Coat Despite the two wins to begin his career coming in much easier company than what he faces on the weekend, Sugar Coat looms large in this 1400m handicap for the boys. He was a smart debut winner on the Pakenham synthetic before easily accounting for a four-horse field at Seymour. He will likely stalk the speed from barrier four, and with an economical run in transit, the step up in trip should be no issue for Sugar Coat. Next Best Race 2 – #5 Sugar Coat (4) 3yo Gelding | T: Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman | J: Linda Meech (54kg) +320 with PlayUp Best Value at Sandown: Muramasa Muramasa produced an eye-catching run at Moonee Valley when finishing the best of the beaten brigade behind Pericles over 1500m. Considering that trip was well short of his best, the run reads even better than it might appear. He steps up to 1800m second-up, and with the long Hillside straight aiding his desire to build through the gears, Muramasa should prove too hard to hold out in the second leg of the quaddie. Best Value Race 6 – #2 Muramasa (11) 5yo Gelding | T: Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young | J: John Allen (60kg) +900 with Picklebet Sandown Saturday quaddie tips – 28/9/2024 Sandown quadrella selections Saturday, September 28, 2024 1-2-3-8 1-2-5-13 1-4-5-11 8-15-18 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article