Wandering Eyes

Retirement is not on the agenda for multiple Group 1 and Classic-winning jockey Seamie Heffernan who, after partnering six winners so far during a winter stint in Bahrain, joked that he has 'a few scores to settle' back home in Ireland before hanging up the boots. It is nearly a year since the 52-year-old announced that he would not be returning to Ballydoyle to ride for Aidan O'Brien, as a result bringing the curtain down on a 30-year relationship that yielded countless big winners across the globe. Heffernan has ridden principally in Bahrain for Sheikh Isa Salman Al Khalifa, owner of Irish Champion Stakes winner Economics (GB) (Night Of Thunder {Ire})). Those six wins leave him in eighth position in the overall jockeys' standings in Bahrain this winter and, while he has no firm plans for when he returns home to Ireland, he says he still has the hunger to compete on the big stage. “When you get the opportunities, you don't forget where the winning post is,” he summarised. “I have done stints in Saudi Arabia, Dubai and Abu Dhabi but it was a long time ago. With the Ballydoyle job, when it came to the end of the year, you needed a break. You needed six weeks to two months off every winter. That was a tough gig but it was grand when you were young and getting rewarded. But when things start to change, you have to make a change.” He added, “I came over here for one owner, Sheikh Isa Salman Al Khalifa, so I ride all of his horses. He likes to have a jockey who can give him a little bit of feedback and guidance. His trainer out here, Allan Smith, has been here a long time and he knows his horses inside out. We are all working together to try and get the right results on the track.” Sheikh Isa has a number of possibilities for the Saudi Cup meeting in a little over a month's time which Heffernan would be in line to ride. But he says that the most enjoyable aspect of his role in Bahrain has been providing feedback to the people behind what is one of the emerging bloodstock and racing nations. “They are putting a lot of effort into it here in Bahrain,” he said. “They don't have grass out here so the horse population is made up of local breds and many more imported horses. It's nice to be able to talk amongst ourselves and to be able to give them a little bit of feedback and enjoy the racing out here while we do it. It's a lot more relaxed than Dubai. Allan has a couple of entries on Saudi Cup night so, listen, they're entered at this stage and hopefully they will be good enough and well enough when the time comes.” He continued, “When I ride something, I like to go into the pedigree. I think an awful lot of this game comes back to pedigree. There are a lot of trainers using GPS systems, heart rate monitors and different apps. Basically, there is not a whole pile to training a horse other than don't over work them and don't under work them. Pedigrees will usually get you out of a hole.” “I am just hoping to be around for a good while longer to settle a few scores back in Ireland!” Last year's tally of 28 winners from 439 rides represented the lowest domestic haul since 2019, where he partnered 25 horses to victory. In the absence of the Ballydoyle gig in 2024, it was Fozzy Stack who provided the bulk of Heffernan's ammunition, with the rider partnering four winners from 36 rides for the Golden-based handler. Kevin Coleman was next best with two wins from 20 rides while Tom Mullins, Michael O'Callaghan and Willie Browne didn't hesitate in calling on Heffernan either. However, his only Group success in the entire campaign came aboard Amo Racing's Dallas Star (Fr) (Cloth Of Stars {Ire}) in the G3 Ballysax Stakes at Leopardstown. Reflecting on last year's results, he said, “I suppose the bigger yards in Ireland these days are Donnacha, Joseph and Aidan [O'Brien] and, when they are saying no to you, you're in trouble. The other trainers, Dermot Weld, Johnny Murtagh etc have to look after their own jockeys as well. Otherwise, they won't have them. I was quite happy with how the year went. I rode plenty of horses for many different trainers. The one thing that probably gets me into trouble is, when I jump down off one, I tell the truth. Sometimes, it's not what people want to hear. “I have a very good agent and have great people who support me and give me first refusal on horses. They may not have big strings but I appreciate their support. As long as I'm enjoying it and as long as I can do the job to the best of my ability, I will take their support and appreciate it.” He added, “I ride a bit for Kevin Coleman for example and he's a bit of a workaholic. He's a complete horseman and knows his horses inside out. He knows their ability and gets them ready for a day and usually that works out. I'm surprised that he doesn't get bigger owners and more support. But that's just the way it is in Ireland. It's extremely competitive. “I actually missed out on being placed in the Irish 1,000 Guineas [aboard A Lilac Rolla (Ire) (Harry Angel {Ire})] for Paddy Twomey as well. I picked up an injury just before Guineas weekend. Paddy is very close to me and, when he heard that I wasn't going back to Ballydoyle, he rang me and said, 'Billy [Lee] rides everything but if you are interested in riding out, I'll look after you and there should be a few spares.' Listen, I enjoy Paddy. He's young and he's had very good results. When you are young and are getting results, you will have some people who begrudge you. But Paddy likes to keep his strike-rate high and only runs his horses if he thinks they have a chance. I think I only had a couple of rides for him last year and both were placed.” Heffernan admitted to being open to opportunities when he returns home to Ireland ahead of the turf season, saying “life is too short,” but insists he has no regrets about ending his association with Ballydoyle. He concluded, “I have no plans for when I come back to Ireland and absolutely no regrets either. Things change and times change. Time waits for no man and nothing lasts forever. No regrets. But it was a bit of candy when Sheikh Isa and Allan Smith offered me this job. They know what I can achieve and probably thought there was a bit of life in me yet. “I am just hoping to be around for a good while longer to settle a few scores back in Ireland! To be honest about it all, I'm 52 at the moment and I watch the replays of all my races. I think I'm riding as well and as sharp as ever. But there will come a day, and I'm getting close to it, when I look at a replay and say, 'wow, it's time to draw a line.' But I have no plans on what I am going to do when I get back home to Ireland. And I've no big plans for the future. All I can say is that I am very lucky that I minded what I was earning over the years so I am privileged to be in a comfortable position.” The post Heffernan: ‘No Regrets And No Plans To Retire – I’ve A Few Scores To Settle First!’ appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

An At-a-Glance look at the Lecomte Stakes from America's Best Racing.View the full article

A nomination to the Aga Khan Studs stallion Zarak (Fr) has been added to the Arqana Online January Sale, which is due to take place between the hours of 3pm and 5pm (local time) on Monday, January 20. For conditions of sale and to view the full catalogue, click here. Zarak stood his first season at Haras de Bonneval in 2018 and is set to command a career-high fee of €80,000 in 2025, having produced three Group 1 winners from his early crops, including last year's Poule d'Essai des Poulains winner Metropolitan (Fr). Haya Zark (Fr) also struck at the top level last year in the Prix Ganay, while Zagrey (Fr), a new recruit to Haras de Grandcamp for 2025, became his sire's first Group 1 winner when successful in the Grosser Preis von Baden in 2023. A four-time winner when trained by Alain de Royer-Dupré, notably landing the G1 Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud, Zarak also boasts an exceptional pedigree as a son of Dubawi (Ire) and the unbeaten G1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe heroine Zarkava (Ire) (Zamindar). The post Zarak Nomination Added to Arqana Online January Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Fasig-Tipton has released the first group of supplemental entries for its Kentucky Winter Mixed Sale–adding 27 head to the auction–which will take place on Monday, Feb. 3, beginning at 10 a.m. ET in Lexington, Kentucky, the company said via a press release on Wednesday. These latest entries, catalogued as hip 349-375, include: Greavette (Astern {Aus}) (Hip 356): 4-year-old MSW is consigned as a racing/broodmare prospect by Grovendale Sales, agent. R Harper Rose (Khozan) (Hip 364): Four-year-old who won the GIII Forward Gal Stakes last year. Consigned as a racing/broodmare prospect by Gainesway, agent. Connie Swingle (Grazen) (Hip 367): Multiple stakes winner in California and a full-sister to GSW S Y Sky & SW Grazen Sky. Consigned as a racing/broodmare prospect by Taylor Made Sales Agency, agent. Accommodate Eva (Munnings) (Hip 374): SW at 2 & 3 from the family of GISW Bell's the One (Majesticperfection). Consigned as a racing/ broodmare prospect by Four Star Sales, agent. Also included in the supplement are short yearlings by Corniche, Hard Spun, Practical Joke, Street Sense, Violence, and War of Will. These entries may now be viewed online and will also be available in Equineline catalogue app. The post First Group Of Fasig-Tipton Kentucky Winter Mixed Supplemental Entries Online appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A look at leading connections in Kentucky racing in 2024.View the full article

Louisiana native Tim Thornton continued his dominance of the jockey standings at his home track of Delta Downs while posting eight wins for the week.View the full article

Legendary figures from the sport of horse racing will be featured in a new podcast hosted by jockey Ferrin Peterson. 'The Boundless Podcast' will feature interviews with Hall of Fame jockeys Steve Cauthen, Chris McCarron, Pat Day and Sandy Hawley.View the full article

Friday will be a day of milestones in the life of this scribe, with the first day of Normandy's Route des Etalons set to coincide with the one-year anniversary of my first day as a member of team TDN. And boy, what a year it's been. One of the highlights from 12 months spent in the job came in August when I had the opportunity to sample the delights of Deauville for the first time. Equally, one of the low points then came in December when poor organisation on my part caused me to miss a return trip due to a soon-to-be expired passport. Unfortunately, the shuttle crossing that was already paid for was non-refundable, but the saving grace was that it was possible to change the dates. And voila, after some quick thinking on the part of TDN colleague and 'Route' veteran Emma Berry, the plan was hatched for yours truly to embark on what I'm assured is one of the most enjoyable trips in the calendar for racing, breeding and fine cuisine enthusiasts alike. The new passport has been safely stowed away ever since I returned from Ireland last weekend. If I've learned anything from my experience of participating in the ITM Irish Stallion Trail, it's that poor organisation simply won't do if you're wanting to get the best out of the trip. Careful planning is essential, and it would be wise to take to the road equipped with a clear idea of the stallions that you most want to see and the studs that you most want to visit, whilst taking some time to join the dots on the map to make sure that it's all possible, logistically, within the available time. What that list of must-see stallions looks like will be different for every individual, but for me it's often split into two very different camps. In the one corner you have the newcomers to the stallion ranks, the fresh-faced adolescents only recently off the track. And in the other you have the elder statesman who strutted their stuff back in this 30-something's youth, all of us having developed a few more grey hairs since we last crossed paths. Take the latest edition of the Irish Stallion Trail as an example. Whilst three of the Coolmore farms were forced to reschedule their visiting hours for this coming Saturday due to the adverse weather conditions, I was lucky enough to get a sneak peek at the three newcomers now in situ at their main Fethard base this past weekend, including the last two Derby winners in Auguste Rodin (Ire) and City Of Troy. City Of Troy, emerging from the box once occupied by the great Danehill, is without doubt the most exciting young stallion to retire to stud for 2025, but then for me there was just as much enjoyment to be found during another pit stop, around 30 miles east of Coolmore, at Capital Stud. It was there that I was reunited with another winner of the Epsom Classic in Authorized (Ire), the 2007 hero who I hadn't set eyes on in the flesh since he also won that year's Juddmonte International at York. Has it really been over 17 years? It's for similar reasons that a visit to Anthony Baudouin's Haras du Hoguenet is high up on my list of priorities for this weekend's Route des Etalons, an event which debuted back in 2011. Somehow, it will be 20 years ago in June that another son of Montjeu (Ire) ran away with the Derby as the Michael Bell-trained Motivator (GB) slammed a certain Walk In The Park (Ire) by five lengths. The winner of the first Derby I can remember watching on TV is also now the second-oldest surviving winner of the Classic, after the 1999 victor Oath (Ire) who, as far as online records show, still resides in India after being pensioned from stud duties there in 2021. Fingers crossed, the 23-year-old Motivator might still have a few good years left in him–he covered 80 mares in 2024–but I'm taking nothing for granted and will be grabbing this opportunity to see him for the first time with both hands. Though not nearly as far into the veteran stage as Motivator, The Grey Gatsby (Ire) also comes into the category of old favourites I'm eager to see, surely more white now than the dappled grey who won the Prix du Jockey Club and Irish Champion Stakes back in 2014. A resident of Haras du Petit Tellier, The Grey Gatsby will be one of five winners of the Prix du Jockey Club available to view on the Route des Etalons, along with Intello (Ger) and Ace Impact (Ire) at Haras de Beaumont, Mishriff (Ire) at Sumbe's Haras de Montfort et Preaux, and Vadeni (Fr) at Haras de Bonneval. A visit to Haras de Bonneval has to be a bucket list item for any bloodstock enthusiast, especially with France's leading stallion, Siyouni (Fr), headlining the roster, while both Beaumont and Montfort et Preaux promise to welcome huge crowds of their own, each having taken in one of those all-important newcomers in recent months. Last year's Prix Jean Prat hero Puchkine (Fr) is the new man in town at the Chehboub family's Haras de Beaumont, while Sumbe's Charyn (Ire) needs no introduction as the outstanding miler of 2024 following victories in the Queen Anne Stakes, Prix Jacques le Marois and Queen Elizabeth II Stakes. Both stallions had been due a visit in December before my passport mishap, but at least this weekend allows the opportunity to right that wrong. The 2023 winner of the QEII, Big Rock (Fr), is one of two new stallions at Haras de Grandcamp, alongside the Grosser Preis von Baden scorer Zagrey (Fr), while the three winners of the Poule d'Essai des Poulains on show at Haras d'Etreham include Metropolitan (Fr), who made the breakthrough at the top level in last year's Classic and was later best of the best behind Charyn in the Jacques le Marois. Elsewhere, Haras de Bouquetot welcomes the 2022 Prix Guillaume d'Ornano hero Al Hakeem (GB), Haras de la Hetraie has taken charge of the 2023 winner of the Grand Prix de Paris in Feed The Flame (GB), and Haras de la Huderie is the new home of the 2023 Coventry Stakes scorer River Tiber (Ire). When you also throw into the mix the smart hurdler Nietzsche Has (Fr), a new addition to the powerful National Hunt ranks at Haras de Montaigu, then it's fair to say that there's something for everyone among those new names. A comprehensive of all 91 stallions, old and new, who will be paraded during this year's Route des Etalons is available on this excellent website compiled by the French TBA, with 20 farms scheduled to open their doors for the two-day event. Other than that, I can only remind you to plan carefully, be prepared to eat well, and enjoy! I know I will–here's to year two with TDN. The post Reasons to be Motivated for the Route des Etalons appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) made two new additions to their board at their December meeting as Robert Hartman and Chris Knehr were elected, according to a Wednesday press release from the nonprofit. Hartman is the chair of the University of Arizona's Race Track Industry Program (RTIP). After holding marketing and management positions with NYRA, Santa Anita Park, and Golden Gate, he joined the RTIP program as chair in 2021. In this role, Hartman oversees the direction of the RTIP program, as well as the hosting of the annual Global Symposium on Racing. “Over the past two years, we have included the RRP and Thoroughbred Makeover into our RTIP curriculum, emphasizing the importance of aftercare,” said Hartman. “I have been impressed by the servant leadership of Kirsten [Green, RRP executive director], and look forward to contributing to the organization.” With a background in the hunters and jumpers, Knehr has served in a variety of roles at breeding farms and consignments before joining Lane's End Farm's stallion season sales team in 2021. As an aftercare proponent with an appreciation for the Thoroughbred sport horse, he has supported his wife Erin's participation in the Thoroughbred Makeover in 2018 and 2024. “Thoroughbreds are bred to be amazing athletes, and the RRP is a leader in highlighting the ability of these horses to go on to a second career in a variety of disciplines,” said Knehr. Several RRP board members have completed their terms of service at the end of last year, including Treasurer Amanda DaBruzzo and directors Anita Motion and Judy Hartman. Existing board member Sarah Williams was elected to take over DaBruzzo's spot. The post Retired Racehorse Project Elects New Board Members Hartman And Knehr appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Recently-crowned Longines World's Best Jockey James McDonald has been confirmed in the line-up for the 2025 International Jockeys' Challenge (IJC) at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh on Friday, February 21. It will mark the first time the globetrotting New Zealander, who has ridden 106 Group 1 winners in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Britain and Japan, has competed in Saudi Arabia. McDonald's participation in the IJC will also give him valuable experience of the Riyadh track, the day before bidding for glory aboard Hong Kong champion Romantic Warrior (Ire) (Acclamation {GB}) in the world's richest race, the $20m G1 Saudi Cup. An array of global stars headline this year's IJC, featuring seven male and seven female jockeys. They include John Velazquez, who has well over 6,000 winners in the US to his name, Oisin Murphy, who was last year crowned Britain's champion jockey for the fourth time, and French-based rider Maryline Eon, who will return to defend her IJC title. The full list of participants is as follows: Hollie Doyle Maryline Eon (2024 winner) Rachel King James McDonald Oisin Murphy Kelly Myers Manami Nagashina Tadhg O'Shea Christophe Soumillon John Velazquez Sofia Vives Sibylle Vogt TBC (Saudi-based rider) TBC (Saudi-based rider) Riders will compete for points across the four IJC races, two on turf and two on dirt, with the jockey who amasses the most points emerging victorious. In each race, 15 points will be awarded for first place, 10 for second, seven for third, four for fourth and two for fifth. The first two IJC races will be run on the dirt track at King Abdulaziz Racecourse, while legs three and four will take place on the turf track. Each race is worth a total of $400,000. As well competing for a share of the $100,000 IJC prize fund ($30,000 to the winner), riders will also receive 15% of prize-money won. The post James McDonald to Ride in the Saudi Cup International Jockeys’ Challenge appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Straight-track specialist Isthmus (Aus) (I Am Invincible {Aus}) has been handed the G1 Black Caviar Lightning and G1 Newmarket Handicap as targets during the Australian autumn, according to Racing.com. If she continues to excel, the G3 Furphy Sprint heroine will have punched her ticket to an engagement at Royal Ascot in June. The bay won her 800-metre heat during the Caulfield jumpouts on Wednesday morning. She broke her maiden at second asking in a handicap at Moonee Valley in March of last year. After four starts at two, Isthmus resumed with a win in a handicap at Sandown in September, prior to her 2 1/2-length victory in the 1100-metre Furphy Sprint down Flemington's straight course on Nov. 2. “She did really well in her break and she strengthened right up and seemed to move well this morning,” co-trainer Sam Freedman, who trains the mare in partnership with his father Anthony, told the publication. “It's form-based, so she obviously needs to measure up the top level over the course of this carnival and if she does, [part-owner] Jonathan Munz is very keen to get her over there [Royal Ascot]. “We had a chat with Arrowfield [part-owners] in Queensland as well and they are on the same page that if her form warrants it, that certainly she could get a trip over.” The well-named Isthmus is a daughter of three-time Group 1 winner Shoals (Aus) (Fastnet Rock {Aus}), who was also trained by Freedman. “Early days we felt she was one of our better 2-year-olds but mentally she probably just wasn't there yet, but she always jumped out nicely and probably went into the wilderness for one preparation,” he added. “It's been a bit of a slow burn with her, Shoals was a little bit the same, she kicked off late in her 2-year-old season and got better as a 3-year-old and then as a mare, so I think the best of her will hopefully be over the next 12 months.” The post Isthmus Eyeing A Crack At Royal Ascot appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Victories aboard Kasa Papa and Bottomuptogether help champion jockey inch closer to all-time Hong Kong benchmark.View the full article

Michael Fitzsimons, the Hong Kong Jockey Club's executive director, wagering products, has announced his intention to resign from the organisation and move on to new ventures, the HKJC announced on Wednesday. There is a comprehensive plan in place to ensure a smooth transition of operation in the Wagering Products Division. Said the HKJC in a statement, “The Club thanks Mr. Fitzsimons for his contribution to the development of the wagering business of the Club in the past four years.” Fitzsimons assisted in the international expansion of the World Pool. The post Fitzsimons To Resign From HKJC appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The first reported foal for Dullingham Park's dual Group 1-winning sprinter Shaquille (GB) was born on the morning of Wednesday, January 15. The bay filly was bred by Sarah-Jane Barker of Tibthorpe Stud in Yorkshire and is out of Sable Camp (Ire), a No Nay Never half-sister to G1 Middle Park Stakes winner The Last Lion (Ire) (Choisir {Aus}). “She is a very smart-looking bay filly, nice size with a pretty head – very much in the mould of her sire and we couldn't be happier,” reported the breeder. “A good-looking foal.” It is fitting that Shaquille's first foal should arrive in Yorkshire as the son of Charm Spirit (Ire) was very much the star of Julie Camacho and Steve Brown's stable, winning seven of his nine races for their Norton-based yard, including the G1 Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot and the G1 July Cup. Bought by Steve Parkin to stand at Dullingham Park alongside Soldier's Call (GB), Shaquille started his stud career at £15,000 and remains at that same fee for his second season in 2025. The post First Foal for Shaquille appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Te Akau Racing are heading into Karaka Millions week with a spring in their step following a positive set of results at their home trials at Matamata on Tuesday. New Zealand’s leading stable has accrued an envious record at the renowned meeting, and this year they look to have another strong hand and have once again secured the services of leading Australian jockey Blake Shinn. Shinn flew to New Zealand to ride a number of Te Akau representatives at the trials on Tuesday, which proved to be an invaluable exercise according to trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson. “He is a world-class jockey and his feedback was fantastic,” Bergerson said. “It was good to get a good line on quite a few of them and we were very lucky to get him over.” Shinn rode leading TAB Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) contender Damask Rose (NZ) (Savabeel) to a runner-up performance in last year’s TAB Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m) and renewed his association with the filly when sixth in the Gr.2 Auckland Guineas (1400m) at Ellerslie on Boxing Day. Shinn reunited with the exciting filly in a 1000m heat on Tuesday where they finished second behind Babylon Berlin. “It was a sharp heat,” Bergerson said. “Damask Rose is just ticking over to head to the Karaka Millions 3YO Mile. “We trialled her in blinkers, which sharpened her up, and we will probably put them on raceday. “Blake was pleased with her, and he rode her on Boxing Day, and is getting to know her a bit better now. “It was good to see her jump with them, and it would be lovely to draw a barrier and put her in the race a bit more. On face value it (Auckland Guineas) was disappointing, but she trialled well against Babylon Berlin who will be a really good chance in the Railway.” Shinn also partnered with exciting filly Captured By Love, with the daughter of Written Tycoon winning her 1000m heat by two lengths over Imprevu, and she looks on song for next week’s Gr.1 Sistema Railway (1200m) where she will renew her burgeoning rivalry with fellow Matamata filly Alabama Lass. The ledger currently stands at two victories to one in Captured By Love’s favour, including the Gr.1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton in November, and her connections are keen to see that trend continue. “She trialled really well and Blake was pleased,” Bergerson said. “She is fit, sound and happy, and she is in very good form. “She will take a bit of improvement from that, she had a freshen-up following Riccarton and that will bring her on nicely heading into the Railway. With the weight, we are very fortunate to get Craig Williams on her. “The time wasn’t as sharp as Alabama Lass’s or a few of the other heats, but they didn’t go much tempo, but she was strong through the line.” Group One winner Move To Strike could also make an appearance at the Karaka Millions meeting following his 1000m trial victory over Gr.2 Rich Hill Mile (1600m) winner Bourbon Empress on Tuesday. The son of I Am Invincible has faced a number of setbacks in his brief career to date, suffering a heart fibrillation in his third start in the Gr.3 Matamata Slipper (1200m) after winning on debut and finishing runner-up in the Gr.2 Eclipse Stakes (1200m), but bounced back in his next start when winning the Gr.1 Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes (1600m) at Trentham. There was plenty of excitement surrounding the colt ahead of his first three-year-old test in the Listed El Roca – Sir Colin Meads Trophy (1200m) at Hastings in September where he was backed into $1.50 favouritism but he put in a subpar performance to finish fifth and subsequently underwent a wind operation. He returned to the trials last month in a Group and Listed trial over 1100m at Matamata where he finished unplaced, and his trainers were buoyed to see him take out his 1000m heat on Tuesday in the hands of Shinn. “We were quite confident and happy with him heading into Hawke’s Bay and he was disappointing,” Bergerson said. “We thought there must be something amiss, so he had a tie forward operation and his breathing was really good yesterday (Tuesday). He has had a few issues in his career, he had a heart fibrillation at Matamata as a two-year-old and now he had the breathing issue as a three-year-old. “He went a lot better (on Tuesday) than the Group and Listed trial at Matamata (last month) where he was a bit big and burly. He had an exhibition gallop in-between times. “We wanted to give him a really good, solid hit-out to see where we were at with him. We put the visor blinkers on him which seemed to have switched him on and sharpened him up a wee bit. “Blake was taken by him, he sprinted well. If he does well over the next week or so, we may look to run him in the Almanzor Trophy (Gr.3, 1200m) on Karaka Millions night, and Blake can ride him there. “They have run all the possible tests on him, and you don’t really know until raceday as it is a different pressure, but we can’t fault him at home, he seems well and he has come through the trial well. “If he brings the best version of himself, he will be very hard to beat.” One Te Akau runner that won’t be attending the Karaka Millions meeting is stakes-winning juvenile Return to Conquer, who beat home a handy line-up of older horses in his 1000m heat. The son of Snitzel has yet to be headed in any of his public appearances to date, and was impressive when winning on debut in the Listed Counties Challenge Stakes (1100m) at Pukekohe in November. He has subsequently been freshened and is on target for next month’s Gr.3 Colin Jillings 2YO Classic (1200m) at Ellerslie following Tuesday’s trial victory. “We are of the opinion that if we think they are good enough to trial against those older horses we will as it toughens them up a bit and brings them on a little bit more than say a two-year-old trial where he would probably coast,” Bergerson said. “Blake was really pleased with him. He is a two-year-old against some pretty good older horses and he was very good. He is a lovely horse and seems to have come through it well. “He hasn’t put a foot wrong since he has been in the stable, he is coming up really well. We will let the dust settle a little bit but there is a high chance he will run at Ellerslie the week after the Karaka Millions in the Colin Jillings Classic and then we will map it out from there. “He is a beautiful horse.” View the full article

Australian syndicator OTI Racing have made a timely acquisition of Skippers Canyon (NZ) (Belardo), with the promising three-year-old set to potentially recoup a portion of their outlay in Saturday’s $350,000 Race With Te Akau Remutaka Classic (2100m) at Trentham. Bred by Ardsley Stud, the Belardo gelding has shown plenty of promise for trainer Jim Wallace, placing on four occasions before breaking through for his maiden victory over 2100m at Otaki earlier this month. Terry Henderson’s OTI Racing came calling over the weekend, and a deal was struck this week, with Skippers Canyon to remain in Wallace’s care at Opaki, and he will race for the first time in OTI Racing’s familiar silks this weekend. “I have always had a decent opinion of him,” Jim Wallace said. “It has taken a long time for the pennies to drop in the right slots in his head, but he got it all together pretty well last time. “He runs for my barn on Saturday and then it will depend what he does as to what happens after that. There is a chance he will stay with me, but that is a decision OTI will make after Saturday. “I am absolutely rapt to be taking him down on Saturday because it is a race I have set him for for quite a while and everything has fallen into place so far. “It is a good deal for us and hopefully it is a good deal for them (OTI).” Skippers Canyon is nominated for the Gr.1 Trackside New Zealand Derby (2400m) at Ellerslie on Champions Day in March, for which he is at a winning quote of $18 on the TAB’s futures market, and Wallace is hopeful of a bold showing this weekend to aid his chances of continuing towards the $1 million classic. “I couldn’t be happier with him. His work yesterday (Tuesday), which was his main piece of work, was very good. He is pretty much right on track,” Wallace said. “The draw (17) isn’t going to make too much difference to him because he gets back anyway.” Skippers Canyon will likely be joined on the journey to Trentham by stablemate Wooing Tree who is set to contest the Gr.3 New Zealand Bloodstock Desert Gold Stakes (1600m). Wallace also has Classic ambitions with the daughter of Mongolian Khan and is eyeing a path towards the $1 million Gr.1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m) at Trentham in March, a race he won two years ago with Pennyweka. “She is a filly I have got an opinion of,” Wallace said. “Long-term, with her pedigree and the way she is behaving, I would like to get her to the Oaks.” Wooing Tree has had just the one start to date, finishing fifth on debut over 1400m at Trentham earlier this month, and while Wallace admits tackling stakes company for the first time at just her second start is a stiff ask, he is willing to roll the dice after drawing the ace barrier. “She did a few things wrong at the start and over-raced (on debut),” Wallace said. “She ran to the line quite well in the last 300m, I was quite happy with the way she finished off. Hopefully we can iron out a few of the issues and she will pick it up. “She has shown us enough to indicate that she is a little bit above average ability, but what is between her ears might not quite measure up to it at this stage. “I am just feeling my way as to where we go. I have got her in the race at Wellington, which is well out of her comfort zone, and I have also put her in a mile at Wanganui on Monday. At this stage, I am thinking about going to Wellington.” View the full article

Shaune Ritchie and Colm Murray will be out to complete their trio of New Zealand feature two-mile successes at Trentham on Saturday when Nereus (NZ) (Savabeel) takes on the Gr.3 NZ Campus of Innovation and Sport Wellington Cup (3200m). The Cambridge training partnership won both the Gr.3 New Zealand Cup (3200m) and Gr.2 Auckland Cup (3200m) last season with Mahrajaan, and while he was the headliner for the stable, waiting in the wings was emerging stayer Nereus, who took out the Gr.3 Awapuni Gold Cup (2100m) later in the autumn. This term, the Savabeel five-year-old built to an impressive win in the Gr.3 Counties Cup (2100m), which subsequently had him carrying the top-weight in the Gr.3 Queen Elizabeth II Cup (2400m) at Ellerslie on New Year’s Day, where he finished eighth, a run Ritchie is happy to move on from. “I think that (weight) was the significant difference, he’s not a big horse and with No Compromise compressing his weight down to 53kg at Counties, it looked a good race for him and that’s how it turned out,” he said. “Obviously going up to the topweight in the Queen Elizabeth was a step too far, so it was a forgive run. “We’re pretty convinced he’ll run the two miles out strongly, based on his trackwork and how well he relaxes early and mid-race. If that’s the case and we’ve got a two-miler, then it opens quite a few doors for us. “We always thought he would be a Cups-style horse and the ultimate prizemoney is getting up to two miles, so we’ve wanted to try him at this distance.” Nereus is currently rated a $13 chance for Saturday’s contest, with Victorian raider Interpretation heading the market at $3. While Ritchie knows the threat the gelding brings across the Tasman, Nereus also benefits from his presence in the race. “The obvious thing here is the Australian horse coming over, he’s favourite and he’s going to be hard to beat,” Ritchie said. “But he does compress us down to a winnable weight, he gets us only three and half kilos off the minimum, a luxury compared to last time. “He’s got a great record with Trentham, it’s the track he’s performed up to his best at. I’m really looking forward to the race on Saturday.” Joining Nereus in the Central Districts will be Brave Spirit, who will have his first appearance at the races in over eight months in the Mode Technology 1200. A son of Swiss Ace, Brave Spirit has never finished outside of the first four in eight starts and will contend with a barrier draw of 16 in the Rating 75 event. “He hasn’t raced for a while and he’s got a wide draw, but I find the Trentham dogleg is quite forgiving of wide draws,” Ritchie said. “But it does make things tougher and you’ve got to be concerned about it. “He’s had some little niggling problems since that trial with his feet, nothing too serious but just frustrating for us. Having said that, he’s missed very little work lately and we did scratch from barrier one about three weeks ago from a wet track. “I think he’s a horse that will win a nice race, but whether it’s a forgive run first-up, it’s hard to tell. He shows plenty in trackwork, but with the one trial under his belt, he’s likely to need this race.” Meanwhile, the stable is hoping to unveil their next Jennifer Eccles as the $1 million Gr.1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m) looms in mid-March, with Spezzatura and Alaskan both hoping to take the next step towards a tilt at the Classic during the week. At Te Rapa on Thursday, Spezzatura, a half-sister to Group One performing mare Supera, will take her place in the Waikato Stud @ Karaka 2025 (1600m) after a tidy third to Belle Tribute at New Plymouth last month. “She’s a really lovely moving filly, she’s drawn well (5) and I’d expect her to race relatively handy,” Ritchie said. “I think she’ll run well, she’s well-bred being a half to Supera from a Pencarrow family and I love her action. I’m dying to get her to 2000, but we thought another mile might suit, which may be her challenge tomorrow, whether it’s just a bit short. “After this one, we hope to get her over ground and that might be time for punters to have a bet.” Sunday’s NZB Karaka 2025 (2100m) will feature Alaskan, a filly by Niagara having her third race-day start at Ellerslie after placing at Tauranga. “She’s a good filly, she’s a dead-set stayer,” Ritchie said. “They’ve got to get rolling early on her and she’ll run the trip right out, that I’m certain of. She’s got to nail one of the maidens to take the next step, so I’m pleased she’s drawn a good gate so she doesn’t get too far back. “If she can race handy, she’ll be extremely hard to beat on Sunday.” View the full article

Top-flight winner El Vencedor (NZ) (Shocking) is in a happy place as he prepares to double his tally at the elite level. Last season’s Gr.1 New Zealand Stakes (2000m) victor enjoyed a spin around Matamata on Tuesday, romping home by six lengths in the hands of Rory Hutchings in a 1200m open trial. “He had a lovely day out, he galloped beautifully and pulled up great,” trainer Stephen Marsh said. “He’ll be at Ellerslie on February 1 for an open 1500m and then on to the Herbie Dyke Stakes (Gr.1, 2000m). “He’s right back where we want him, he’s well and a very happy horse.” El Vencedor won the Gr.3 Balmerino Stakes (2000m) in the spring but then tailed the field home in the Gr.1 Mufhasa Classic (1600m) before finishing a gallant third behind Snazzytavi (NZ) (Tavistock) and La Crique (NZ) (Vadamos) in the Gr.1 Zabeel Classic (2000m). “He missed the jump at Trentham, did a bit of work and the track was a bit off, but it was a below par effort before he bounced back at Ellerslie,” Marsh said. “It was basically catch me if you can and even Rory said the mares would have to be good to beat him, as it ended up they were good enough, but I still thought he was terrific.” Stablemate and last-start Gr.2 Rich Hil Mile (1600m) winner Bourbon Empress (NZ) (Proisir) also stretched her legs at the trials and finished runner-up over 1000m ahead of her next test in the $1 million Elsdon Park Aotearoa Classic (1600m) at Ellerslie. “She’s a mare that keeps on improving and everything we do with her, she just keeps on getting better and better,” Marsh said. Meanwhile, Nest Egg (NZ) (Reliable Man) has mixed his form in the lead-up to Saturday’s Gr.3 NZ Campus of Innovation & Sport Wellington Cup (3200m) and hopes of a turnaround in fortunes have been boosted by the booking of Warren Kennedy. “Not a lot has gone right, but Warren seems to be the man that has always got on well with him,” Marsh said. “The horse’s work has been great, he went out to the beach on Monday and he’s well and happy. The track should be good, so he gets his chance to get back into form, but it has been a very in and out campaign.” Also in action at Trentham will be the promising filly Bellarista (NZ) (Belardo) in the Gr.3 New Zealand Bloodstock Desert Gold Stakes (1600m) and last-start winner Sinhaman (NZ) (Tavaci) in the Race With Te Akau Remutaka Classic (2100m). “Bellarista hasn’t put a foot wrong and it’s an even field, she had her final piece of work this (Wednesday) morning and she’s hard to fault,” Marsh said. “Sinhaman just loves getting over a bit of ground and he’s a nice, progressive horse.” Marsh also has a big team engaged at Te Rapa on Thursday and believed Penman, runner-up in his only two starts, as one of his best chances when he steps out in the Waikato Draught Maiden (1400m). “He’s going really well and he’s just going to need a bit of luck from the draw (11),” he said. Marsh also reported former Champion Two-Year-Old Velocious was progressing well following a wind operation after she failed in two starts earlier this season. “She’ll be jumping out on Friday and will head to the trials from there, she’s coming up very well,” he said. Velocious won four of her six starts at two, including the Gr.1 Sistema (1200m) and the Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m). View the full article

What Kembla Grange Races Where Kembla Grange Racecourse – Princes Highway, Kembla Grange NSW 2526 When Thursday, January 16, 2025 First Race 1:10pm AEDT Visit Dabble Provincial racing returns to Kembla Grange Racecourse on Thursday afternoon, with a competitive eight-part program set for decision in the Illawarra region. The surface is rated a Soft 7 at the time of acceptances, and with more rainfall forecast in the lead-up, punters can expect that rating to worsen the closer we get to start time. The rail is in the true position, with racing scheduled to get underway at 1:10pm local time. Best Bet at Kembla Grange: Ride The River The Bjorn Baker-trained Ride The River returns following a 155-day spell and appears primed to strike in this Class 1 contest. The son of Headwater caught the eye in a recent barrier trail at Warwick Farm on January 3, closing on the heels of the ever-consistent Willaidow. Watch for Ashley Morgan to dictate terms from barrier four aboard this progressive type, and provided he can handle the testing conditions, Ride The River should justify the short price with Neds. Best Bet Race 2 – #2 Ride The River (4) 3yo Gelding | T: Bjorn Baker | J: Ashley Morgan (58kg) Bet with Neds Next Best at Kembla Grange: Mrs Maree Mrs Maree faded badly in the Listed Lonhro Plate (1000m) at Randwick on February 10, pulling up two out of five lame in the post-race vet report before being sent to the paddock. She looks to be returning in supreme order, pushed out to score impressively in a recent barrier trial at Warwick Farm on January 3, showing no signs of her previous injury despite the lengthy layoff. Zac Lloyd takes the reins from stall four, and with Mrs Maree likely to gain the ideal stalking position in the one-one, watch for Mrs Maree to be storming down the centre of the course. Next Best Race 1 – #5 Mrs Maree (4) 3yo Filly | T: Clarry Connors | J: Zac Lloyd (55.5kg) Bet with BlondeBet Best Value at Kembla Grange: Milly Molly Mandy Milly Molly Mandy represents terrific each-way value with horse racing bookmakers as she gets set to make her debut for the Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou barn. The daughter of So You Think was held up with nowhere to go in a recent barrier trial at Rosehill on December 23, with the unraced three-year-old slowly building into her work at the end of 900m. The 1200m first-up could prove short of her best trip based on breeding; however, with Tyler Schiller set to gain the perfect run from gate three, Milly Molly Mandy should get every chance to make an impression on debut. Best Value Race 5 – #10 Milly Molly Mandy (3) 3yo Filly | T: Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou | J: Tyler Schiller (55.5kg) Bet with Picklebet Thursday quaddie tips for Kembla Grange Kembla Grange quadrella selections January 16, 2025 1-2-5-10 1-2-4-6 1-4-6-11-12 1-2-3-4-6 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Odds Bookmakers News Field Past Winners Widden Stakes Group Three Betting Guide Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025 Location: Rosehill Gardens Racecourse – Sydney, New South Wales Prize Money: $250,000 Distance: 1100m The Widden Stakes, a Group 3 race for two-year-old fillies, is a highlight of the Australian Turf Club’s calendar, run over 1100m at Rosehill Gardens. Conducted under Set Weights and Penalties conditions, the Widden Stakes boasts a $250,000 prize pool as of 2025. First held in 1943 and won by Birthright, the Widden Stakes has evolved over time. While it occasionally allowed open-gender participation in its early years, it has been exclusively for fillies since 2007. Elevated to Group 3 status in 2014, The Widden Stakes horse race honours the renowned Widden Stud, one of Australia’s most famous thoroughbred nurseries. As a proving ground for future champions, the Widden Stakes has seen notable winners such as Denise’s Joy (1974), Triscay (1989), Overreach (2013), Mossfun (2014) and Lady of Camelot (2024) — the latter three going on to claim Group 1 Golden Slipper (1200m) victories. In 2024, Lady Of Camelot claimed the title, defeating Manaal and Wave Breaker. This win marked a record seventh Widden Stakes victory for legendary trainer Gai Waterhouse, now in partnership with Adrian Bott. 2025 Widden Stakes betting odds Betting odds for the 2025 Widden Stakes are currently unavailable. HorseBetting will update the Widden Stakes odds once released. How to bet on the Widden Stakes Every decent Australian horse racing bookmaker will have betting on the Widden Stakes available. Many of them will open an early market so you can wager on the race a week or so in advance. Unlike many of the bigger races, Widden Stakes acceptances are only done a few days before the race so you won’t find a market many weeks in advance. Aussie bookies offer all of the usual bet types on the race and you will have the option of using ‘boosted odds’ at some of them. This simply means you place your win bet and use the boosted odds option, which could send a $10 shot out to $15. This provides great value and is as good a reason as any to bet online. Neds Code GETON 1 Take It To The Neds Level Neds Only orange bookie! Check Out Neds Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? Set a deposit limit today. “GETON is not a bonus code. Neds does not offer bonus codes in Australia and this referral code does not grant access to offers. Full terms. BlondeBet Signup Code GETON 2 Punters Prefer Blondes BlondeBet Blonde Boosts – Elevate your prices! Join BlondeBet Review 18+ Gamble Responsibly. 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Widden Stakes News Lady Of Camelot does it easy in Widden Stakes Australia horse racing news 12 months ago Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott and Tim Clark have combined with Lady Of Camelot to take out the Group 3 … Read More Justify poised for huge stud career after Saturday’s stakes win Australia horse racing news 2 years ago Learning To Fly’s Widden Stakes victory at Rosehill on Saturday was just the start of what is going to be … Read More Patient approach paying off for ‘extraordinary’ Learning To Fly Australia horse racing news 2 years ago According to Coolmore bloodstock consultant James Bester, deciding not to run Learning To Fly in the Gimcrack Stakes last October … Read More Learning To Fly shows class in Widden Stakes victory Australia horse racing news 2 years ago Learning To Fly has produced an empathic display of talent to win the Group 3 Widden Stakes on Saturday afternoon … Read More Rosehill preview, best bets & quaddie tips | Saturday 28/1/2023 Horse Racing Tips 2 years ago What Rosehill Races Where Rosehill Gardens – James Ruse Dr, Rosehill NSW 2142 When Saturday, January 28, 2023 First Race … Read More Queen Of The Ball runs them ragged in the Widden Stakes Australia horse racing news 3 years ago The Richard & Michael Freedman-trained Queen Of The Ball has put in a dominant display in the Widden Stakes when … Read More 2025 Widden Stakes Final Field HorseBetting will update this page when the 2025 Widden Stakes final field is released. Previous Widden Stakes Fields 2024 Widden Stakes field No. Silks Horse Trainer Jockey Barrier Weight 1 Manaal Michael Freedman Tommy Berry 8 57.5kg 2 Alinea Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Regan Bayliss 7 54.5kg 3 Celerity James Cummings James McDonald 3 54.5kg 4 Extreme Diva Anthony Cummings Zac Lloyd 4 54.5kg 5 Froebel Star Ciaron Maher Jason Collett 2 54.5kg 6 Lady Of Camelot Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Tim Clark 1 54.5kg 7 Pushpa Annabel Neasham Chad Schofield 5 54.5kg 8 The Eyes Have It Nathan Doyle Dylan Gibbons 9 54.5kg 9 Wave Breaker Peter & Paul Snowden Kerrin McEvoy 6 54.5kg 2024 Widden Stakes result https://horsebetting.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Rosehill-2024-Group-3-Widden-Stakes-03022024-Lady-Of-Camelot-Gai-Waterhouse-Adrian-Bott-Tim-Clark.mp4 1st – Lady Of Camelot (-333.33) 2nd – Manaal (-250) 3rd – Wave Breaker Times (NTD) Recent runnings of the Widden Stakes: 2024: Lady of Camelot a class above After taking out the Canonbury Stakes with Prost earlier in the day, Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott took out the second of the two-year-old features at Rosehill, with Lady Of Camelot ($1.45) getting the job done well as the odds-on favourite in the Group 3 Widden Stakes. Tim Clark took the heavily backed favourite to the front and led every step of the way over the 1100m and careered away for a dominant victory. The daughter of Written Tycoon was able to turn the tables on Manaal ($7.00), with the Gimcrack Stakes winner unable to reel in the front runner. The Peter & Paul Snowden-trained Wave Breaker ($11.00) ran on nicely to nab third place ahead of Extreme Diva ($26.00), but was clear that the top two runners were the ones to follow from this contest going forward. 2023: Learning To Fly produces dominant display Learning To Fly produced an empathic display of talent to win the Group 3 Widden Stakes for trainer Annabel Neasham. The filly by Justify was a late drifter in the market despite opening a short-priced favourite after barrier draws on Wednesday, and seemingly overcame that drift with a dominant win against the girls, stopping the clock at an impressive 1:03:30. A time which proved slightly quicker than the colts earlier in the day as Red Resistance stopped the clock at 1:03:60 respectively. It was Perfect Proposal for Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott who stepped best to lead them up, while the eventual winner sat to her outside throughout the 1100m contest. Firming favourite Steel City got the perfect run on the leaders back from Jason Collett who simply couldn’t chase down the brave Learning To Fly who gave a strong kick to hold off all challengers under jockey Chad Schofield. 2022: Queen Of The Ball leads throughout After Best Of Bordeaux dominated his rivals in the Canonbury Stakes, Queen Of The Ball won in similar style in the two-year-old fillies race, the Group 3 Widden Stakes. The Richard & Michael Freedman-trained filly found the front from barrier 10 under Rachel King and it was all over bar the shouting. The filly by I Am Invincible finished second on debut, however she came through that run well, to put up a margin of 3.75 lengths, in a winning time of 1:03.53. 2021: Mallory enters Golden Slipper picture Gerald Ryan would defer to the training philosophies of the great Bart Cummings as he plots an autumn two-year-path for Widden Stakes winner Mallory. The Arrowfield Stud filly put herself in the frame for Golden Slipper discussions with a determined win in Saturday’s Group Three race, chasing down leader Total Babe to score with authority. Mallory ($4) defied a market drift to stamp her class at Rosehill, scoring by a length over Total Babe ($4) with Vianello ($3.80 fav) another half-length away. Previous winners of the Widden Stakes Widden Stakes Past Winners Year Horse Jockey Trainer 2024 Lady of Camelot Tim Clark Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott 2023 Learning to Fly Chad Schofield Annabel Neasham 2022 Queen of the Ball Rachel King Richard & Michael Freedman 2021 Mallory Jason Collett Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou 2020 Away Game Tom Marquand Ciaron Maher & David Eustace 2019 Amercement Brenton Avdulla James Cummings 2018 Fiesta Kerrin McEvoy Chris Waller 2017 Teaspoon Hugh Bowman Michael Freedman 2016 Honesty Prevails Jason Collett Rick Worthington 2015 Fireworks Brenton Avdulla Gerald Ryan 2014 Mossfun Tommy Berry Michael, John & Wayne Hawkes 2013 Overreach Tommy Berry Gai Waterhouse 2012 Driefontein Tommy Berry Gai Waterhouse 2011 Satin Shoes Hugh Bowman Clarry Conners 2010 Georgette Silk Blake Shinn Clarry Conners 2009 Horizons Blake Shinn Gai Waterhouse 2008 Delta Girl Jeff Lloyd Graeme Rogerson 2007 Superfly Tim Clark David Hayes 2006 Churchill Downs Larry Cassidy David Hayes 2005 Pasikatera Chris Munce Gai Waterhouse 2004 Econsul Chris Munce Graeme Rogerson 2003 Race Not Held 2002 Secret Land Chris Munce Gai Waterhouse 2001 Riona Larry Cassidy John Hawkes 2000 Miss Bussell Brian York Gai Waterhouse Widden Stakes winners pre-2000 Widden Stakes Past Winners Pre 2000 Year Horse 1999 Miss Thunderstood 1998 Countess Christie 1997 Manana 1996 Empower 1995 Unison 1994 Stitches 1993 Dynasty 1992 Lilting 1991 Merry Shade 1990 Bundle Of Thanks 1989 Triscay 1988 Momentaire 1987 Kazarne 1986 Whilodge 1985 Magic Flute 1984 Super Swift 1983 Rivage 1982 Biscarina 1981 Surpassing 1980 Flight Of Life 1979 Shaybisc 1978 Golden Topic 1977 Peeping 1976 Princess Talaria / Lady Lyndal 1975 Rainbeam 1974 Denise’s Joy 1973 Gretel 1972 Magic Beam 1971 Blue Mountain 1970 Royal Endeavour 1969 Summer Play / Final Bid 1968 Celina 1967 Topmost 1966 On Par 1965 Red Mittens 1964 Suzanne 1963 All Gold 1962 Heirloom 1961 April Wonder 1960 No Match 1959 My Rachael 1958 Chateau Clair 1957 Foison 1956 Estrina 1955 Royal Maureen 1954 Interesting 1953 Queen Of All 1952 Reflected Glory 1951 Celebrated 1950 White Lightning 1949 Magic Carpet 1948 Pantomime 1947 Oasis 1946 Kindly Light 1945 Race Not Held 1944 Genista 1943 Birthright Recommended! Take It To The Neds Level Home of the Neds Toolbox Check Out Neds 18+ Gamble Responsibly Punters Prefer Blondes It’s a fact, Blondes have more fun Join BlondeBet 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE?. Next Gen Racing Betting Top 4 Betting. Extra Place. Every Race. Join Picklebet 18+ Gamble Responsibly. What are you really gambling with? It Pays To Play New online bookmaker Check Out PlayUp 18+ Gamble Responsibly Say Hey to the social bet! You Better Believe It Join Dabble 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE?. Full terms. View the full article

What 2025 Magic Millions Where Gold Coast Turf Club – Racecourse Drive, Bundall QLD 4217 When Friday, January 17, 2025 First Race 5:30pm AEST Visit Dabble The Gold Coast Turf Club will host the remaining seven races of its 2025 Magic Millions meeting this Friday night, following the postponement of last Saturday’s program. The Magic Millions 2YO Classic and 3YO Guineas will headline the rescheduled meeting, with a massive $12.5 million worth of prize money on offer. The track has already improved to a Soft 6 rating on Wednesday; however, there is rain forecast in the next two days, so expect a Soft surface throughout the night. The rail will be in the +0.5m position from the 400m-800m mark and in its true position for the remainder of the circuit. The first race at the Gold Coast will jump at 5:30pm AEST. Race 1: Magic Millions Subzero (2200m) Following two impressive wins over 2000m at Eagle Farm and Rosehill, Belvedere Boys appears to be one to beat in the opener. The son of Maurice has shown a good ability to make up ground in the final 600m and run away with the victory. Matthew Dunn has engaged Blake Shinn for the ride, and if Shinn can settle this talented stayer in the middle of the pack with cover, Belvedere Boys can bring up the hat-trick. Selections: 5 BELVEDERE BOYS 4 MISS JOELENE 11 ENCODER 6 TANHAUSER Best Bet Race 4 – #5 Belvedere Boys (12) 5yo Gelding | T: Matthew Dunn | J: Blake Shinn (56kg) +320 with Neds Race 2: Magic Millions 2YO Classic (1200m) The Magic Millions 2YO Classic will feature 16 runners in 2025, and of those runners, the Peter Snowden-trained Memo has opened as the $5.50 favourite with horse racing bookmakers. Read HorseBetting.com.au’s free betting preview and tips for the Magic Millions 2YO Classic here. Race 3: Magic Millions Snippets (1200m) Ciaron Maher and Damian Lane will combine with Semana who will be returning from a 14-week spell with only one barrier trial under her belt. The daughter of Winning Rupert is a multiple Group 1 placegetter, and even though her best performances have come over 1400m or further, she has two wins and two placings from four starts at 1200m. From barrier four, Semana will receive the run of the race, and if she can sprint with the leaders, she will prove hard to hold out late. Selections: 5 SEMANA 6 HARD TO SAY 3 STEADY READY 8 HEDGED Next Best Race 3 – #5 Semana (4) 5yo Mare | T: Ciaron Maher | J: Damian Lane (56kg) +380 with Playup Race 4: Magic Millions Cup (1400m) Abounding will return to the Gold Coast for the first time since winning the Magic Millions 3YO Guineas in 2024. The Robert Heathcote-trained mare was impressive when winning her first-up start over 1200m at Doomben before a torrid run in the Listed Nudgee Stakes. Although the daughter of Rich Enuff travelled three-wide for the entire trip, she still battled on gamely to finish sixth. Martin Harley will settle her worse than midfield with cover, and if she lets down like she did first-up, Abounding can bounce back. Selections: 2 ABOUNDING 6 CHARM STONE 19 REDFORD 13 ARTS OBJECT Magic Millions Cup Race 4 – #2 Abounding (16) 4yo Mare | T: Robert Heathcote | J: Martin Harley (57.5kg) +800 with Boombet Race 5: Magic Millions 3YO Guineas (1400m) The second of the feature races will be the Magic Millions 3YO Guineas, and a full field of 18 runners is expected to clash in the 1400m contest. Much like the 2YO Classic, the 3YO Guineas betting market is an open one, with the Peter Snowden-trained Tuileries opening as the $5 favourite with Picklebet. Read HorseBetting.com.au’s free betting preview and tips for the Magic Millions 3YO Guineas here. Race 6: Magic Millions Fillies & Mares (1300m) The $8.50 on offer with BlondeBet is a great price for the Kris Lees-trained Bubba’s Bay in the Fillies & Mares, considering she just claimed her fourth win in five starts in the Listed Nudgee Stakes. The daughter of Cable Bay has been racing in career-best form this preparation, and her tough victory in the Nudgee Stakes showed how well she is going. With only one other speed influence engaged in the race, Andrew Mallyon can settle Bubba’s Bay outside the leader, go for home at the 400m mark, and get her rivals chasing. Selections: 5 BUBBA’S BAY 6 MISS ROUMBINI 8 ANAHITA 13 LEFT FIELD Best Value Race 6 – #5 Bubba’s Bay (15) 5yo Mare | T: Kris Lees | J: Andrew Mallyon (57kg) +750 with Picklebet Race 7: Magic Millions QTIS Open (1300m) Rex Lipp has Cifrado firing on all cylinders this campaign, as the four-year-old gelding is yet to miss the placings from four starts, including his win in the Listed Lough Neagh Stakes. The son of Encryption enjoys all surfaces, and it is expected that he will appreciate a drop back in distance from 1400m to 1300m for this contest. After drawing barrier four, Cifrado will receive a much better run than his main market rivals, which will prove pivotal to his winning chances. Selections: 2 CIFRADO 6 BOOM TORQUE 3 HIDDEN WEALTH 12 SKIRT THE LAW Gold Coast quaddie tips for 2025 Magic Millions Gold Coast quadrella selections Friday, January 17, 2025 1-2-5-6-19 1-2-6-14-18 1-5-6-8-13 1-2-3-6-12 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

By Mike Love Biggles brought up career win number two by winning the Phillips Family Handicap Pace over 2400m at Ashburton on Tuesday. Geraldine trainer John Murdoch was not surprised by the seven year old Tintin In America gelding’s effort. “We expected him to go good. But the ten metre handicap was the only worry,” said Murdoch. Driven by Ricky May, Biggles made a clean beginning from the ten metre handicap, racing handy early. Biggles and May were held up for the majority of the run up the straight before executing a tight gap to burst through and get the money by a head from runner up Fergalicious. “Ricky’s made him. He’s driven him right through. He’s been patient with him and has taught him how to race.” Biggles posted an impressive 2:59.8 for the 2400m journey from a stand. Murdoch currently trains a team of three, with a potential fascination of breeding from Jill Ireland – Biggles mother. “We’re tempted to go again.” Biggles is likely to race next at Forbury Park (Oamaru) on January 22nd. “It’s 2600m with a penalty free win with a junior driver.” Other highlights on the card included a popular win with the Graeme Telfer trained Barrytown in race eight the Mike Greer Homes mobile trot with Tim Williams driving. Not winning out of turn, Barrytown recorded his third career victory to go along with his 17 second placings while bringing up Telfer’s 63rd career training success. View the full article

Race videos are loaded straight to NZTR's (or Trackside?) servers. Trial videos and Stewards Vision is loaded to a YouTube channel. Perhaps they have only paid for the low speed channel. Yes it costs more to load HD vision on YouTube.

by Jessica Martini & Stefanie Grimm LEXINGTON, KY – The Keeneland January of All Ages Sale produced its third $700,000 mare when Love to Shop (Violence), consigned by Claiborne Farm, brought that co-sale topping bid from Pin Oak Stud Tuesday. During the second session of the three-day auction, 242 horses sold for $10,854,300. The average was $44,852 and the median was $20,000. With 89 horses reported not sold, the buy-back rate was 26.89%. Through two sessions, 442 head have grossed $28,941,300, for an average of $65,478 and a median of $35,000. The two-day buy-back rate stands at 29.39%. After two days of the four-day January sale a year ago, 430 head had grossed $31,596,700 for an average of $73,481 and a median of $30,500. The cumulative average for the 2024 auction was $46,126 and the median was $15,000. A pair of supplemental offerings sold for $700,000 during Monday's first session of the January sale and that figure was matched three-quarters of the way through Tuesday's second session with an internet bid from Jim and Dana Bernhard's Pin Oak Stud. “That was huge,” Claiborne Farm's Jacob West said after watching Love to Shop (Violence) (hip 733) sell. “She was a filly that was bought as a yearling for Mike Repole and Vinnie Viola and we always knew she was going to end up at a public auction to dissolve the partnership.” Purchased for $200,000 at the 2021 Keeneland September sale, Love to Shop won the 2023 Toronto Cup Stakes and was second in that year's GII Bessarabian Stakes. In 2024, the bay mare was second in the GIII Ontario Fashion Stakes and GIII Bessarabian Stakes while racing for Repole and Viola and trainer Kevin Attard. “She shipped down to run in a stakes at Turfway Park and she came up with a foot abscess and we had to scratch her,” West said. “We sent her over to Margaux Farms and those guys did an incredible job with her. They've had her for the last 30 days, just keeping her ticking over in light training. She shipped in to us and looked incredible. Virginia at the barn was showing her the whole time and if she had one of those step-o-meters, she would have walked about 30 miles the last couple of days showing her. She never turned a hair. She deserved that price. She was such a quality filly and there are updates in the family. She is by a sire that people like and she has a race record. It all just equaled $700,000.” Out of Tiffany Case (Uncle Mo) and bred by D. J. Stable, the 5-year-old racing or broodmare prospect is a half-sister to Nitrogen (Medaglia d'Oro), who was third in last year's GI Natalma Stakes and GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf and returned last week to win the Ginger Brew Stakes at Gulfstream Park. With a slimmed down catalogue, the January sale is down to three sessions this year from four days in 2024, blurring the line between a typical Book 1 and Book 2 set-up. “At Claiborne, we ended up just selling on one day,” West said. “So it wasn't spread out in “Book 1” or “Book 2,” so we just had her in there and we had [the whole consignment] all on one day. She was quality. It didn't matter if there were 1,000 horses in the sale, she was going to stand out. But I think all the scratches helped her stand out even more. At the end of the day, a lot of people try to hold on to their quality horses, that's the market we are in. They get rewarded when they sell yearlings out of them. She just happened to be one of the prize jewels of the sale.” Jenny O'Callaghan | Keeneland Peter and Jenny O'Callaghan of Woods Edge Farm purchased the second highest-priced mare, as well as the co-highest price short yearling of Tuesday's session. The O'Callaghans went to $310,000 to acquire Abrogate (Outwork) (hip 513). The stakes-winning 7-year-old mare sold in foal to Good Magic and was consigned by Taylor Made Sales Agency, agent for STH LLC. The couple also purchased a filly by Golden Pal (hip 641) for $300,000 from the Clarkland Farm consignment. “Everybody is here despite the cold temperatures and nobody misses a good horse,” said Jenny O'Callaghan. “And the key is to buy the ones you really like and stick to your guns. It's always tricky buying because the good ones really stand out.” Bloodstock agent Kim Valerio matched that $300,000 bid when purchasing a filly by Justify (hip 578) as agent for the Green family's D. J. Stable. Bred and consigned by Stoneriggs Farm, the short yearling is out of GIII Ontario Colleen Stakes winner Chart (Lea). Purchased for $120,000 as a 2-year-old at the OBS April sale and raced by D. J. Stable, Chart earned over $114,000 on the racetrack and was purchased by Stoneriggs Farm for $210,000 at the 2021 Keeneland November sale. Now in a full-circle moment, the mare's daughter will return to D. J. Stable to race. Kim Valerio | Keeneland “She was very athletic, a great mover with a great attitude,” said Valerio. “From the first day I saw her until this morning, she was still walking like a champ, so I liked that, it's important. We're going to run her. [D. J. Stable] raced the mother, so that helped us spend a little bit more money on her. She's very athletic, square across the ground with a great attitude. That's important to me.” Valerio noted that D. J. Stable has had success buying out of the January sale. The operation went to $335,000 to purchase Moonlit Garden (Malibu Moon) in 2020 and that mare has since produced a 175,000gns Tattersalls Breeze-Up sale grad and a $250,000 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga yearling. “I like this sale–it's a value sale, so I like to load up here,” Valerio said. “I've bought some great horses out of this sale, so I'm never going to miss it.” The Keeneland January sale concludes with a final session beginning Wednesday at 10 a.m. Golden Pal Continues First-Crop Momentum with 300K Filly Joining the fold as the co-highest priced yearling of the session at $300,000, a filly (hip 641) from the first crop of Coolmore's dual Breeders' Cup winner Golden Pal went the way of Peter and Jenny O'Callaghan's Rock Bloodstock. Bred and consigned by Clarkland Farm, she is a daughter of the stakes-placed Scat Daddy mare Fairyland. The mare herself was a $375,000 KEESEP grad to M.V. Magnier who raced for the partnership of Mrs. John Magnier, Derrick Smith and Michael Tabor and trainer Wesley Ward before selling to Clarkland Farm for $700,000 at KEENOV in 2019. Hip 641, a $300,000 Golden Pal filly | Keeneland Clarkland's Marty Buckner acknowledged that breeding a pair of classy Wesley Ward-trained runners together was part of the appeal of the Golden Pal/Fairyland cross. “Golden Pal was a wonderful racehorse with excellent confirmation and Fairyland was also trained by Wesley [Ward]. We thought maybe we'll have a market there.” The $300,000 price, the highest for a Golden Pal yearling through the end of the first two sessions, exceeded Buckner's expectations. “[The price] is wonderful, we're ecstatic. I didn't expect anything like that at all. We're thrilled and very lucky. Very fortunate that it happened as it makes up for a lot of ones that don't work out so it was really great.” While off the board in her only try facing Group company in the G3 Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot as a juvenile, Fairyland broke her maiden on debut at Keeneland in maiden special weight company and earned her black-type when second in the Bolton Landing Stakes at Saratoga where she was just a half-length back of the winner in her first start following her trip to Ascot. Since retiring to her breeding career, Fairyland has produced four foals with all four being six-figure yearlings paced by $825,000 KEESEP grad Westeros (Into Mischief). Of hip 641, Jenny O'Callaghan said: “She showed very well these last few days in very difficult conditions. She's out of a very talented race filly and Clarkland does a great job. He's [Golden Pal] a very exciting sire. We've really liked his stuff and we hope she is going to come back next year with the goal to bring a much bigger price. She was a high price but it's a very competitive market. That was more than we expected to pay for her but sometimes the good ones are worth digging deep for.” In a show of confidence for the cross, Buckner noted that Fairyland is booked back to Golden Pal who bred 293 mares in his debut season for Coolmore in 2023 and stands for $25,000. –@SGrimmTDN The post $700K Love to Shop Distances Herself from the Pack at Keeneland January Tuesday appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Churchill Downs, Inc. (CDI) subsidiary that operates the advance-deposit wagering (ADW) platform TwinSpires sued the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) in federal court Jan. 12, alleging that the state's requirement that ADW providers be linked to a licensed racetrack and live race meeting is “unlawful.” The state's track-partnership requirement currently can't be fulfilled by any ADW because there hasn't been any Thoroughbred racing in Michigan since 2018, and Standardbred races last ran in February 2024. TwinSpires (and other ADWs) had previously partnered with the harness operation at Northville Downs, which is planning to, but has not yet received, approval for the required 30 days of racing to be eligible for ADW and simulcasting in 2025. On Dec. 23, 2024, the MGCB notified all licensed third-party facilitators to cease all ADW account wagering services for Michigan residents effective Jan. 1, 2025. This ban was to be in effect “until all licensing issues are resolved,” according to a Jan. 9 MGCB statement. According to the MGCB, while Xpressbet, NYRA Bets, and TVG Network complied with the order, TwinSpires did not. “Despite this directive, on Dec. 31, 2024, TwinSpires informed the Board that it would continue to offer account wagering for Michigan accounts, in violation of state law,” the MGCB stated. “TwinSpires' continued violation of legal regulations prompted the MGCB to intervene and enforce compliance with the established laws governing simulcast racing by issuing [a] summary suspension order,” the MGCB stated. “A virtual hearing before an Administrative Law Judge has been requested [to] determine whether this summary suspension should continue, or if other fines and penalties should be imposed.” TwinSpires sees the situation differently. “It is no different than if Michigan required any online retailer to partner with an in-state brick-and-mortar store before it could accept orders from individuals in Michigan,” the lawsuit stated. Among the arguments articulated by Churchill Downs Technology Initiatives Company in its civil complaint on behalf of TwinSpires in United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan (Southern Division) are that the state-track licensing requirement is allegedly “preempted by the Interstate Horseracing Act (IHA) of 1978” and purportedly also violates the Interstate Commerce Clause. “The IHA contains no provision requiring the consent of the state in which an individual placing the wager happens to reside,” the lawsuit stated. “This makes sense given the historic understanding that wagering is regulated in the location it is accepted, not where the individual placing the bet resides.” The lawsuit continued: “MGCB's actions have subjected TwinSpires to irreparable injury and placed it in a perilous position. If TwinSpires is forced to cease its interstate ADW offering in Michigan, which federal law clearly permits, then it stands to wrongfully lose millions of dollars in revenue for which TwinSpires would never be able to recover damages, because the state is immune from money damages.” The lawsuit stated that, “Michigan has made clear it can and likely will pursue 'administrative, civil, and criminal penalties' pursuant to the state's Licensing Requirements if TwinSpires continues to offer ADW to Michigan consumers under the IHA. That includes potential criminal prosecution or a fine of up to $10,000 for engaging in interstate commerce expressly authorized under federal law… “These extraordinary threats to TwinSpires's business, coming for the first time since it began offering its platform to Michigan residents over a decade ago, gives TwinSpires no choice but to ask this Court to protect its legal rights now,” the lawsuit stated. The MGCB could not be reached for comment on the lawsuit in time for deadline for this story. The agency will have its chance to file a legal response to the complaint. The post TwinSpires, after Defying Michigan Order Other Bet-takers Complied With, Sues State in Federal Court appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article