Wandering Eyes

Sheer unbridled enthusiasm. That's exactly what was on show at the November Foal Sale at Goffs this week where, on top of a millionaire lot, turnover climbed by 26% to €32,640,000, the average by 34% to €48,717 and the median by 21% to €29,000. Those are the types of figures that compare favourably to even Book 1 of the Orby and they left Goffs chief Henry Beeby understandably delighted at close of play on Thursday. He commented, “The cream of the Irish foal crop is our proud boast and I think we can say without fear of contradiction that our buyers agreed as we have witnessed a sale of true strength and depth that was, at times, simply extraordinary. “The early signs were good with packed car parks and yards from first thing Saturday which led to a sale on Monday that kicked us off in some style with a trade of real vibrancy from start to finish. That vibe continued on Tuesday as we stepped up a gear although nothing could have prepared us for Wednesday's truly electric and historic sale.” “A seven-figure foal is always a big deal, and we are indebted to both vendor and purchaser, as well as the notable underbidder, for their faith in a stunning young colt. He was by no means the only showstopper though as foal after foal attracted proper bidding duels as all the leading pinhookers battled with several significant end users for stunning colt after superb filly as the day progressed. Indeed, the growth recorded in every statistic was simply mind blowing by Wednesday evening and firmly cemented Goffs November as the first choice for the best Irish foals once again as so many vendors were more than happy to acclaim the sale as the best there is for the category.” He added, “There are so many factors that contributed to the week's success, not least the huge numbers of young pinhookers looking to invest, which is a unique aspect of Goffs November as we enjoy the patronage of so many generations. That means that all levels of the market made progress, and it is certainly worthy of comment that the number of six figure lots increased from “42 last year to 75 this time with three times more surpassing the quarter of a million mark. “Another key point is the diversity of buyers so clearly illustrated by 18 different buyers signing for the top 20 lots and 54 individual entities investing in six figure foals. That points to a quality and depth to the market that augurs well for the Irish thoroughbred industry. All that said today was harder work and made the point that demand is not endless albeit any foal that caught the eye of the pinhooking fraternity was as hard to buy as during any other session. “As ever we extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to every vendor for their support as we are nothing without their wonderful foals and wish each purchaser the best of luck whether they bought to resell or race. If the former we stand ready and waiting to work for the buyers as they switch to vendor mode next autumn. Goffs Orby and Premier provide consistency and strength at all levels of the market and no team will work harder for you.” It was Jerry Horan of Ballynure Park Stud who played a star role at Goffs on Thursday. Following on from a familiar theme all week, Horan's Sioux Nation colt proved most popular when selling to Flash Conroy of Glenvale Stud for €70,000. There was an interesting backstory to the top lot, too. Bought by Horan during the mares' session of this sale last year for just €8,500 in utero to the colt, that trade represented a tidy profit within the space of 12 months for young Horan. He said, “Absolutely delighted. It was at this sale last November when Jamie Moriarty picked out the mare for me. She was vendored and he told me that we should buy her so we got her bought for €8,500. Brought her home and she went to Bernard Cloney to foal. He kept her for a while and, I know everyone says this after they get a touch, but this colt was just so easy to look after and was just very straightforward from day one. We sent him to Alice Kavanagh for prep and she did a great job with him. He's been very busy ahead of today and my own team–Tara, Sarah and Ciara–did a top job.” He added, “I've been lucky with the mares but I do buy a few of them so you're always going to get a touch when you have strength in numbers. But I've been lucky enough to get a touch every year with one or two mares and manage to trade away with the rest. It's not too bad.” If the story didn't represent enough of a quick enough turnaround, what about the Showcasing (GB) colt that Horan sourced less than six weeks before the sale for €10,000? The hammer fell–again to Glenvale–at €30,000 on Thursday. Not even Bitcoin has climbed that much in the past six weeks. “In fairness, Hamish McAuley found him online,” Horan explained. “I didn't even know that he was in the sale. It was a nice bit of business–just over two months. I'd a Mehmas (Ire) foal yesterday who made €80,000 and I'd bought the mare for €31,000 so, in fairness, it's been a very good week. Over the course of the week, everything I sold made a good bit more than I thought they would. It shows the depth of people who were buying here at Goffs. Footfall was unbelievable and, even yesterday, I couldn't believe the amount of people who were out looking at the Thursday foals. Phenomenal.” Of the 223 offered on the Thursday session, 134 foals were sold at a clearance rate of 60%. Turnover was €2,001,500, which is down by 23% on last year, while the average was €14,937 [down 4%] and the median €11,000 [down 8%]. Talking points Sioux Nation's stock has been on the rise for a while now but this was the year where things went to a new level for the Coolmore-based stallion. After a good yearling sale season, Sioux Nation enjoyed a memorable week here at Goffs, with his progeny leading the way on two of the four days of trade. All told, 36 foals by Sioux Nation sold for an average of €53,917whille four rocked into six figures. Tally-Ho Stud remained the undisputed top dog buyers with 14 horses bought for a combined €1,037,000. It wasn't just the domestic pinhookers who contributed to the booming trade with Philip Stauffenberg [who spent €910,0000 on seven foals], Sumbe [spent €660,000 on two foals] and Scandinavian buyers The JC Organisation [spent €650,000 on two foals] featuring on the top 10 buyers' sheet. Of the sires with their first foals selling at Goffs this week, it was hard not to be taken with Minzaal (Ire), who posted a €52,635 average for 26 lots sold. Not even the dip in the figures on Thursday could take away from what had been a blockbuster foal session. However, the drop off in the Thursday trade might raise the question about whether the minimum bid for the final day should be €3,000 or not. If it was €1,000, perhaps a few more foals would have sold in the ring, which would have helped the clearance rate. At the end of the day, 24 horses didn't get a bid in the ring and 16 were vendored €3,000 on Thursday. Buy of the day Given how the progeny of Cotai Glory (GB) sold this week and how well lot 817, a colt by the Tally-Ho Stud-based stallion stacked up physically, it's hard to argue that he wasn't well-bought at €42,000. Bred by Chris Hayes, fast becoming something of a dab hand at this discipline, the Cotai Glory colt was consigned by Boherguy Stud and was knocked down to Barton Stud's Tom Blain who signed under AR Bloodstock. The colt is the fourth foal out of Oasis Dream (GB) mare Butoolat (GB), who has already produced a winner, and appears to be a typically-precocious model by the stallion. Thought for the day Attention now turns to the mares' section of the breeding stock sale on Friday and one of the potentially fascinating subplots will revolve around Kia Joorabchian's level involvement. We all know that Amo Racing injected great enthusiasm into the yearling market from October onwards. Well, given the operation has retired three new stallions in the past month, it will be interesting to see whether Joorabchian and his buying team will be recruiting mares to visit newbies King Of Steel, Bucanero Fuerte (GB) and Go Bears Go (Ire). The post Beeby Hails “Truly Electric” Foal Session As Horan Enjoys Day To Remember At Goffs appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The distinctive water tower at Ellis Park that hulks behind the far turn and is emblazoned with the Kentucky track's name will be removed over the coming weeks “due to critical safety concerns related to its structural integrity.” Churchill Downs, Inc. (CDI), the gaming corporation that owns Ellis, made the announcement via press release on Thursday. CDI stated the decision was made “despite dedicated efforts to preserve the historic water tower.” But, the press release added, “given the lack of functionality and rapid deterioration of the water tower, the increasing risks associated with the unsound structure compelled CDI, upon advisement, to make the difficult decision to proceed with its removal” before the end of the year. “We understand the deep emotional connection the water tower holds for our fans and the local community,” said Matthew Pressley, the general manager at Ellis. “This decision was not made lightly, as we prioritize the safety of everyone who visits our facility. We are committed to exploring meaningful ways to honor the historical significance of the water tower, ensuring that its legacy is celebrated and remembered for future generations.” The post Ellis Park to Demolish Distinctive but Deteriorated Water Tower appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The historic water tower at Ellis Park, a fixture of the landscape at the Henderson, Ky., track, is coming down.View the full article

2nd-GP, $60K, Msw, 3yo/up, f/m, 6f, 12:52 p.m. ET. A pair of 3-year-olds from the shedrow of Todd Pletcher will make their debut with Lasix from the inside gates. Exiting the rail spot is RUMOURS HAVE IT (Tapit). The filly is a Whisper Hill homebred who is out of dual champion Songbird (Medaglia d'Oro). Mandy Pope went to $9.5 million to acquire this dam at the 2017 Fasig-Tipton Fall Mixed Sale. Rumours Have It is her third foal and second to make the races. Emanating from next door is Taylor Swifter (American Pharoah). Robert and Lawana Low took her home for $725,000 during Keeneland September. The filly's dam is SW Taylor S (Medaglia d'Oro) and her second dam is the productive GSW Miss Macy Sue (Trippi), who is also responsible for current sires Liam's Map (Unbridled's Song) and Not This Time (Giant's Causeway). TJCIS PPS The post Friday’s Racing Insights: Pletcher Stablemates Unveil Their Own Eras Tour At Gulfstream appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

TJC Innovations (TJCI) has released an update to the TLore management app to provide a more streamlined experience for its users. Log on credentials dictate which version of the app a user views. “We wanted to make this version of the app as easy to use as possible while providing all the information an owner needs to keep track of their horses, anywhere, anytime.” said Tracy Attfield, founder of TLore and TJCI vice president. “Thanks to TLore's now being part of TJC Innovations, we can offer real-time automated integration of race and workout data and a Premium PP subscription service. Plus, owners can customize which notifications they would like to receive, including new race entries, results, workouts, photos, videos, and post time alerts. “TLore is indispensable for anyone who wants a comprehensive tool for racehorse management,” Attfield said. “It saves time and facilitates communication with owners. In addition, TLore is integrated with the Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA), ensuring each horse's status with HISA is known, including if it is approved to race.” For more information, click here. The post TJCI Releases Updated TLore App appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The owner app enables owners to keep track of their horses by viewing their horse roster, race entries, results, race replays, and workouts, including horse notes, photos, and workout videos, all pulled directly from their trainer’s TLore data. View the full article

The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance's third annual Holiday Giving Campaign will begin Dec. 1 and continue through the month of December. The campaign is designed to increase awareness for accredited organizations engaged in ensuring a quality life for equine athletes once their racing days are through. Last year's campaigned raised better than $200,000 for accredited aftercare. “Our accredited aftercare organizations continue to make a profound difference in the lives of retired racehorses, providing them with the care and futures they deserve,” said Jeffrey Bloom, President, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. “Each donation to the holiday campaign supports the necessary work of 83 accredited organizations across the nation. During the season of giving, we deeply appreciate your support, which helps ensure the welfare of these wonderful Thoroughbreds.” Throughout the campaign, the TAA will announce daily match sponsors who will match all donations up to a specified amount for the given day. “We choose to support Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance this holiday season and in the future because of the necessary work they do in providing grants for their accredited aftercare organizations,” said Dan Piazza. “Our Thoroughbreds deserve and require our support beyond the racetrack and into their second careers.” Beginning Dec. 1, individuals wishing to participate in the campaign can go to the TAA website to make their donation. Through Dec. 31, donations of $50 or more will receive a free calendar while supplies last. “We are so grateful for the support we've received during our Holiday Giving Campaigns and are excited to build on the growth we see each year to raise even more funds for our accredited organizations and the Thoroughbreds they care for,” said Emily Dresen, Director of Fundraising & Events, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. “It's inspiring to witness the collective effort from our industry to support our equine athletes during this season of giving.” Click here for additional information. The post TAA Holiday Giving Campaign Begins Dec. 1 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Backside Learning Center (BLC)–an independent non-profit organization providing support and resources for the diverse community of racetrack workers and their families–will hold its annual fundraiser, “Benefit for the Backside: A Day at the Races Celebrating the BLC's 20th Anniversary,” Friday, Nov. 22 at Churchill Downs at noon. The public can participate online to purchase raffle tickets and bid on silent auction items. Information and specifics can be found on benefitforthebackside.com. This will be the second year the event will be held at the Churchill Downs' First Turn Club–a, spacious, state of the art indoor-outdoor pavilion on the first turn of the racetrack. All money raised through this annual event goes directly toward programming, resources and costs associated with the work of the BLC. “This event is a great and fun opportunity to gather those who believe in our mission, and who want to support those who play such a vital role in the success of the horseracing industry,” said Executive Director Sherry Stanley. “The Backside is such a vibrant and diverse community right in the heart of the city that most people never think about. We serve the hundreds of workers and their children who are members of our community and who will soon be our next generation of leaders.” The post Backside Learning Center Fundraiser to be Held at Churchill Downs Friday appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Owen Burrows is renowned for his Sir Michael Stoute-like patience with the yard's leading prospects, but he may not have to wait as long as usual with his exciting new recruit Falakeyah (GB) (New Bay {GB}–Alaflaak, by War Front) lighting up a dour Thursday afternoon at Wolverhampton. A granddaughter of the GI Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf heroine Lahudood (GB) (Singspiel {Ire}) from the family of the stable's luminary Hukum (Ire) (Sea The Stars {Ire}) and his brilliant full-brother Baaeed (GB), Shadwell's blueblood was a warm order at even-money for the first division of the extended mile maiden. Quickly making up for a tardy start to travel easily in mid-division for Jim Crowley, the February-foaled bay cruised to the fore approaching the furlong pole with the motor still idling before being shaken up to assert her superiority. Hitting the line with 5 1/2 lengths to spare over Life Is Rosie (GB) (Lightning Spear {GB}), she became the third TDN Rising Star for her sire whose others Alcantor (Fr) and New Energy (Ire) proved group 1 performers. “The hardest thing was pulling her up–she wanted to go round again! She did it very professionally,” Crowley said. “She's a forward-going filly and, mentally, the more racing the better she'll be. It looks like we'll have a bit of fun with her next year.” Eye-catcher! Falakeyah is impressive on debut as she powers home at @WolvesRaces for @JimCrowley1978 and @OwenBurrowsRace… pic.twitter.com/GVBG3rGh4B — At The Races (@AtTheRaces) November 21, 2024 The post Shadwell Blueblood A New TDN Rising Star For New Bay appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The University of Arizona's Race Track Industry Program (RTIP) Global Symposium on Racing, to be held Dec. 9-11, will be streamed online, making the conference accessible to those who cannot attend in person. Roberts Communication Network (RCN) will stream the event via the Racetrack Television Network (RTN), with all proceeds from the sale going back to the RTIP. “We are very excited to once again stream the Symposium through our RCN and RTN partnership,” said RTIP Chair Robert Hartman. “As we approach our milestone 50th Symposium, we continue to see growth in our international audience and understand that travel may not be possible for some. We feel it is crucial to make these important panel sessions available to everyone. We are very appreciative of RCN's help and especially their generosity in donating all the proceeds back to the Program.” The live streaming package, which also includes archived sessions of each panel, is available for a $149 purchase on the RTN.tv website, enabling people to watch on tablets, smartphones, and PCs, and on televisions through Roku devices and Amazon Fire TV. For more information on the Symposium, including a full agenda, visit the website at www.RacingSymposium.com. The post RTIP Symposium To Be Streamed Live on RTN appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Michael Guerin After a spring where little has gone right trainer Jeremy Young is hoping Lady Of The Light has a better summer. And it wouldn’t mind it starting a couple of weeks early at Alexandra Park tonight in Race 6, the Bird and Barrow Flying Mobile Pace (8.30pm). If Young and his owners had got their way Lady Of The Light could have been at Addington last week in our greatest race of them all, the IRT New Zealand Trotting Cup. She was a ballot and only just missed a start and while he admits Lady Of The Light would have struggled his team still wanted to be there. “It is the ultimate and would we have loved to be there,” he says. As it turned out Lady Of The Light ended up in a vastly different unwinnable race at Cambridge last Friday instead in which she started off a 30m handicap over 2200m where the leaders paced 2:47.1 in the wet and she never got into the race, finished a brave fifth. “That has sort of been her whole spring, not much going right,” says Young. “But I think now she is getting back into some suitable race with the big aim being the Queen Of Hearts in a couple of weeks.” Tonight Lady Of The Light starts off the front line over 1700m with her biggest worry being Sooner The Better being drawn inside her and such a good sprinter. The question of the race may be whether Sooner The Better can lead and if he does whether driver Scott Phelan would consider handing up to Lady Of The Light, thinking he might be able to beat her for speed up the passing lane. The pair should have the respect of most on a fast front line but over the sprint trip it will only take one driver chancing their arm to change the complexion of the race. The night also features a very even intermediate trot in which in-form Shez Bella and Dream Of You face big handicaps while Pantani is off the front but also woefully out of form. He has galloped in his last three starts after earlier looking one of the best three-year-olds in the country. It would not surprise to see him bounce back tonight. Earlier in the night Young warns punters that Eyre I Am (R1, No.1) could be a better chance than his $7.50 opening quote suggested. “He is going to win races up here and the way this field stacks up tonight could suit him, being the only horse on the front line,” says Young. View the full article

The 2024-2025 stakes schedule at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California, will feature 79 added-money events over a total of 78 race dates, topped by the GI Santa Anita Handicap and the GI Santa Anita Derby. The Big 'Cap, worth $400,000 in 2024, will offer prize money of $300,000 this year, while the purse of the Santa Anita Derby has been cut to $500,000 from $750,000. On the flipside, the purses on offer for overnight races are above what was offered last spring and autumn, with four allowance and maiden races increasing by better than 10%. “It's prudent and responsible to adjust the number of stakes races to fit the new landscape of foal crop and horse population with a still impressive 79 stakes over 78 race days,” said Bill Nader, president and CEO of the Thoroughbred Owners of California. “The overnight purses have been increased over the spring and fall levels which is a step in the right direction. Despite challenging times, Southern California remains a big part of American racing and the racing here at Santa Anita over the next several months will help reinforce that message.” The winter/spring 'Classic' meeting begins, as usual, on Dec. 26, including a trio of Grade I events for 3-year-olds: the Malibu Stakes and La Brea Stakes at seven furlongs on the main track and the American Oaks at 10 panels on the turf. The opening- day program also includes the former GII San Antonio Stakes, which is being renamed in honor of legendary jockey Laffit Pincay, Jr. “Laffit Pincay Jr. is one of the greatest ambassadors this sport has ever had, and it is past time for him to be honored,” said Nate Newby, Santa Anita's senior vice president and general manager. “Laffit will turn 78 two days after Opening Day, and we are delighted to give him an early birthday present.” The Santa Anita Handicap is scheduled for Saturday, Mar. 1 on a program that also includes the GI Frank E. Kilroe Mile Stakes, the GII DK Horse San Felipe Stakes on the Road to the Kentucky Derby and the GII Buena Vista Stakes. The Santa Anita Derby takes place Saturday, Apr. 5 and the supporting stakes on that afternoon include the GII Fasig-Tipton Santa Anita Oaks, the GIII Monrovia Stakes and the Echo Eddie and Evening Jewel Stakes for Cal-bred 3-year-olds. The Classic meeting runs 49 days through Apr. 6 and is followed by the 29-day Hollywood meet which kicks off after a 12-day break on Apr. 18 and continues through June 15. Overall, the 79 stakes–47 at the graded level and nine Grade Is–are worth $12 million. Twenty-one stakes are to be contested over the turf course. The highlight of the Hollywood meeting comes on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, with the GI Shoemaker Mile Stakes, the GI Gamely Stakes and GII Hollywood Gold Cup on tap. Click here for the entire stakes schedule. The post With Reduced Purses, Big ‘Cap, Santa Anita Derby Highlight Santa Anita Stakes Schedule appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A total of 22 stakes with purses totaling $2.5 million will take place throughout the 42-day Thoroughbred meet at Sam Houston Race Park, which begins its 31st live racing season Friday, Jan. 3. The annual Houston Racing Festival is set for Saturday, Jan. 25, with five stakes, anchored by the GIII Houston Ladies Classic and the GIII John B. Connally Turf. “We are committed to presenting an exciting racing season and engaging horseplayers, no matter their level of experience,” said Bryan Pettigrew, Sam Houston Race Park's Vice President and General Manager. “Our goal in hosting live racing and promotions is to create a festive atmosphere for both racing enthusiasts and casual fans. On Friday nights in addition to the live music, we have added college nights offering students, alumni and fans of local universities a place to come and celebrate their schools.” The post A Total of 22 Stakes Worth $2.5 Million Set for Sam Houston appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Multiple group 1 winner City of Troy was crowned Horse of the Year at the 2024 Cartier awards the night of Nov. 20 at a lavish ceremony at the Dorchester Hotel in London. View the full article

Last year's campaign raised over $200,00 for accredited aftercare. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance will announce new daily match sponsors, each sponsor will match all donations up to a specified amount for their day. View the full article

With four weeks remaining in its 2024 Thoroughbred racing season, Woodbine Entertainment is confident its All-Weather (Tapeta) track is in optimal condition for safe training and racing.View the full article

Sam Houston Race Park will kick off its 31st live racing season Jan. 3. A total of 22 stakes with purses totaling $2.5 million will be run throughout the 42-day Thoroughbred meet, which continues through April 6.View the full article

Kim Wickens has been named the winner of the 2023 Dr. Tony Ryan Book Award for excellence in Thoroughbred racing literature for her biography of the great 19th century stallion, Lexington. The book, Lexington: The Extraordinary Life and Turbulent Times of America's Legendary Racehorse, creates a vivid time capsule back to the pre- and -post Civil War era in which he lived. This was the second straight year a book about the peerless sire was honored, following Geraldine Brooks's 2022 win for her novel, Horse. Lexington is the first book authored by Wickens, a former criminal defense lawyer who currently resides in Kentucky. “One of the biggest challenges of nonfiction writing about early Thoroughbred racing is making the facts found in 1800s racing publications, newspapers and other records come alive on the modern page,” lead judge Kay Coyte said. “Wickens tells the factual story of Lexington and the characters surrounding him with warmth, intelligence, sometimes humor, and always elegance. She clearly loved her subject and she breathed her enthusiasm into every chapter.” Other finalists included Isaac Murphy: The Rise and Fall of a Black Jockey, by Katherine C. Mooney, and The Turcottes: The Remarkable Story of a Horse Racing Dynasty, by Curtis Stock. The finalists were recognized at a cocktail reception Nov. 20, held in the loft above the historic stallion barn at the Ryan family's Castleton Lyons, near Lexington, Kentucky. A $10,000 first prize was awarded, with $1,000 going to each of the runners-up. All three received Tipperary crystal trophies in the form of Castleton Lyons' iconic stone tower. The post Kim Wickens Wins Tony Ryan Book Award appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Edited Press Release Officials at Woodbine Entertainment have expressed confidence in the all-weather track at Woodbine despite recent problems with the surface resulting in the deaths of multiple horses, claiming that the track is in 'optimal condition for safe training and racing' with only a handful of live dates left in the 2024 season. In a release issued Thursday morning, the track said that, since the cancellation of the final two races on Nov. 9 and the scrapping of the Nov. 10 program in the interest of equine safety, 'Woodbine has worked diligently to address safety concerns and improve track conditions.' Among the measures taken, according to the track, were: Immediately following the on-track breakdowns, Woodbine cancelled the last two races, including the Grade III Autumn Stakes, after consulting with the AGCO, Jockeys' Guild, and HBPA; Woodbine contacted Tapeta Footings, its track supplier and consultant, to conduct a thorough review of the track conditions. Tapeta Footings arrived in Toronto the following morning; The review found the track required maintenance to restore its evenness. consistency, bounce and cushion; Extensive maintenance was conducted on Nov. 10, including rototilling to a depth of five inches, followed by power harrowing and a gallop master treatment to ensure a consistent surface; Positive feedback was received from trainers and riders following galloping on the track on Monday and Tuesday, which were observed by Tapeta Footings, Woodbine and the AGCO; Morning training hours on the All-Weather track were extended to accommodate a harrow break procedure; Tapeta Footings, led by Joan Wakefield and Miguel Piedra, worked closely with the Woodbine track team throughout the week, implementing best practices to maintain optimal conditions; Juan Meza, former Track Superintendent at Golden Gate Fields, has been brought in by Tapeta Footings, as part of their strong partnership, to provide additional support and consultation on track maintenance; Woodbine has kept the AGCO, HBPA, and Jockeys' Guild informed of all developments and is planning a meeting with the AGCO to discuss further enhancements to track maintenance and horse welfare moving forward. “We've worked diligently to ensure the track is in excellent condition for the final weeks of the meet,” said Bill Ford, Executive Vice-President of Racing at Woodbine Entertainment. “On behalf of Woodbine and our racing community, I thank Tapeta Footings, especially Joan and Miguel, for their expertise and leadership over the last couple of weeks. We continue to be strong supporters of the Tapeta surface, which is key to our commitment to horse welfare and safety.” Woodbine was scheduled to resume racing on Thursday. The final day of the meeting is Sunday, Dec. 15. The post Woodbine ‘Confident’ About Track Conditions As End of Season Nears appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Classic winner Jan Brueghel (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) will not participate in the Longines Hong Kong International Races and will instead be prepared for a start in Saudi Arabia next year. Coolmore posted the news on X on Thursday. The Coolmore partners' 2024 G1 St Leger hero was forced to miss an intended start in the G1 Melbourne Cup due to a failed vet check. However, his preparation for Hong Kong was deemed insufficient by connections and he will likely resurface in the Middle East early in the new year. “He had a long journey back from Australia and was restricted to only trotting while over there,” trainer Aidan O'Brien said in the post. “Unfortunately we didn't have enough time to prepare him properly for Hong Kong so we will revisit his plans. We may aim for a race in Saudi early next year.” The post Jan Brueghel Camp Eyeing Saudi Arabia After Hong Kong Miss appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A total of 79 horses have been catalogued for the BBAG Christmas Online Sale on Friday, Nov. 29. The sale ends on Sunday, Dec. 1. Consisting of six foals, five yearlings, 25 broodmares, six 2-year-olds, 37 racehorses (3yo/up) and a breeding right in Cloth Of Stars (Ire), the catalogue features many horses eligible for the BBAG auction races. In addition, several horses qualify for French premiums. Late supplements for the sale will be accepted through Nov. 25. The post BBAG Christmas Online Catalogue Features Breeding Right In Cloth Of Stars appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Win Win Win (Hat Trick {Jpn}), the sire of sales-topping and graded-winning 'TDN Rising Star' Nooni, will stand the 2025 breeding season at a fee of $8,500 stands and nurses at Ocala Stud. The soon-to-be 9-year-old stallion has accounted for eight winners from his first crop to date, topped by the aforementioned Nooni, who fetched $1.8 million from Donato Lanni on behalf of Amr Zedan's Zedan Racing Stable at this year's OBS March Sale. Turned over to Hall of Famer Bob Baffert, the bay filly–bred by Ocala Stud–graduated by 9 1/2 lengths at first asking in June and added a front-running success in the GIII Sorrento Stakes in August. She was also second after making the running in the GII Oak Leaf Stakes in her first start around two turns Oct. 5. Win Win Win is also the sire of Win N Your In, victorious in this year's Sharp Susan Stakes and FSS Susan's Girl Stakes. As previously reported, Khozan joins the roster at Ocala Stud for 2025, having stood heretofore at Journeyman Stud. The son of Distorted Humor and Delta Princess–a half-brother to champion Royal Delta–has been represented this term by GIII Forward Gal Stakes heroine R Harper Rose, the stakes-winning Lure Him In and Grade III-placed Hot Peppers. OCALA STUD — 2025 STUD FEES Adios Charlie (Indian Charlie), $3,000 Awesome Slew (Awesome Again), $4,000 Colonel Liam (Liam's Map), $6,500 Gretzky the Great (Nyquist), $3,000 Khozan (Distorted Humor), $6,000 Seeking the Soul (Perfect Soul {Ire}), $5,000 Roadster (Quality Road), $7,500 Win Win Win (Hat Trick {Jpn}), $8,500 The post Win Win Win Tops Ocala Stud Roster For 2025 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

All 12 Hong Kong Group 1 contests during the 2024/2025 season will be part of World Pool, the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) announced on Thursday. This is the first time races in Hong Kong have been incorporated into the World Pool schedule. Hong Kong will become the ninth jurisdiction to host World Pool races, joining the UK, Ireland, Germany, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Australia and Argentina. Over 25 jurisdictions and 70 partners bet into both the Hong Kong pools and World Pool and, in season 2024/25, 84 of the IFHA Top 100 Group 1 races will be part of World Pool. The 12 new World Pool races are as follows: 8: G1 Longines Hong Kong Cup, G1 Longines Hong Kong Mile, G1 Longines Hong Kong Sprint, G1 Longines Hong Kong Vase 19: G1 Steward's Cup, G1 Centenary Sprint Cup 23: G1 Citi Hong Kong Gold Cup, G1 Queen's Silver Jubilee Cup 27: G1 FWD QEII Cup, G1 FWD Champions Mile, G1 Chairman's Sprint Prize May 25: G1 Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup. Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, chief executive officer at the HKJC, said, “World Pool has provided many benefits to the global horse racing industry including deep and liquid parimutuel markets, increased value opportunities, greater certainty of odds and enhanced returns. World Pool is also a key weapon in the fight against illegal gambling operators and has delivered increased returns to the sport allowing authorities to invest into prizemoney and the broader sustainability of horse racing. “Additionally, World Pool drives promotion of our sport with a heavy focus on the best international events, horses, jockeys and trainers, drawing predominantly from the IFHA's Longines Top 100 Group 1 races. As such, it is timely to add Hong Kong's best races to the World Pool brand commencing with the four Group 1 races on HKIR Day. Hong Kong has only 0.7% of the global total of racehorses in training, yet in 2023 had 14 horses featured in the Longines World's Best Racehorse Rankings and 12 races in the IFHA Longines Top 100 Group 1 races. “We are proud of the HKJC's world-class racing and the development of World Pool and look forward to the two of them sitting side by side in the future.” The post All Hong Kong Group 1 Races Added To World Pool For 2024/2025 Season appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

How did we get hooked on this sport? We all have stories about how our love affair developed and blossomed. The TDN will be reaching out to numerous notable people in the industry to get their stories to find out how they got hooked and stayed hooked on the sport. Larry Collmus, racecaller It really started for me at Timonium, where my father put in the sound system. I would work for him in the summers, monitoring the sound in the grandstand while he was monitoring all the fair exhibits and things like that. I quickly became more interested in the horse racing than monitoring the sound. I was more fascinated by the characters, especially up in the press box, and the people I met there. I knew I fit in there at the racetrack and that I wanted to be there, and that's how it all it stated. My first full time job was at Birmingham when they first opened in 1987. Before that I was a backup on the Maryland circuit for a few years. Calling my first Kentucky Derby really solidified my love for the sport. Especially when it's over, its an 'oh oy God' moment. Here I was the guy who wanted to call races since he was 18 years old and just got to call the Kentucky Derby. That was in 2011. Ned Toffey, General Manager, Spendthrift Farm Ned Toffey | Spendthrift It probably started with me with my parents. I grew up in Columbus, Ohio and I was four years old when my parents made a family trip with all of us to Kentucky. They brought us to Spendthrift Farm, where was saw Nashua. I don't remember any of it, but that was what planted the seed for me. My parents weren't huge racing fans, but were casual racing fans. I think they just wanted to get out of town for a while. I know we visited Fort Knox and did some of the other touristy things there are to do in Kentucky. From as early a time as I can remember, I was a huge fan of horses and horse racing. Maybe what set the hook would be when I was 10 years old my dad took me to Saratoga and it happened to be the day they were inducting Secretariat into the Hall of Fame. I got my picture taken with Penny Chenery. We went over to the track and bet on a Meadow Stables horse that won at 10-1. Doing all that with my dad was a great experience. My first job was at a place called Kinderhill Farm in New York State. I took it when I finished college. I thought I could enjoy this for a while while I looked for a real job. A year later, I moved to Kentucky, and it became my real job. I kind of grew away from the sport for a little while in high school. I went to the University of Massachusetts and made the football team as a walk-on. I ended up getting a scholarship to play football. One of my teammates who I wound up sharing an apartment with was Paul Manganaro, whose family was in the breeding business, and they boarded horses at Spendthrift at the time. I didn't know him that well. That was because he played defense and I played offense and it's like they are almost two separate teams. I'm sitting in the apartment and Paul is talking on the phone to his father about what stallions they are going to breed to. I'd think, 'I remember that horse.' Being around Paul reminded me how much I liked the sport and that there was a whole another aspect to it in the breeding and farm side of the sport. To share your own story of how you got hooked on racing, email suefinley@thetdn.com. The post How I Got Hooked on Racing: Larry Collmus, Ned Toffey appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society (CTHS) Ontario Digital Mixed Auction is now live and the catalog may be accessed by clicking here. Bidding on 69 lots began Thursday and runs through Tuesday, Nov. 26 at 5 p.m. ET. The catalog features weanlings and yearlings by Canadian-based stallions, horses of racing age and broodmares in and out of foal. The digital auction also includes a season to the Speightstown stallion Big Screen, a 5% ownership interest in the sire Reload (Hard Spun) and the full ownership of the stallion Seattle Serenade (Smart Strike–Serenading). To create an account to bid, click here. The post CTHS Ontario Digital Mixed Sale Goes Live appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article