Wandering Eyes

By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk The news isn’t good for two of the country’s top drivers who are facing longer than expected recoveries after recent setbacks. Sarah O’Reilly won’t be back in the sulky this year after breaking her arm in July while Benjamin Butcher says he’s got weeks of physio on his shoulder before he returns to race day driving. For Butcher though the more pressing concern is fully recovering from what was a serious concussion suffered when he was thrown to the track while driving Iron Heart in a 2YO Sires’ Stakes heat at Alexandra Park in late August. “For the first week I was sleeping 19 or 20 hours a day, I was like a zombie and my eyes were all glassy,” says Butcher, “now I’m getting through the day ok but when I get to bed I’m exhausted.” “It’s just a matter of time. You only have one brain so you have to take care of it the best you can.” Butcher’s expected to start physio soon on his shoulder and then he’ll map out a plan to getting back on track. “I’m still thinking about it but I think I’ll drive the ones I’m training and there’s a pretty good chance you’ll see me on the track before the end of the year.” The same can’t be said for O’Reilly. She broke her arm and suffered facial injuries in a trackwork accident at Ashburton Raceway. At the time she said “the horse in behind me jumped into my cart”. The recovery has been much slower than she expected or wanted, with a visit to a specialist last week confirming she’ll be in for a quiet spring-summer. “I’ve been told to wait another three months,” says O’Reilly, “and that’s when they will see me again.” “They are happy with how’s it’s healing but it’s taking a long time and x-rays have shown it’s not perfect.” Like Butcher she’ll now be getting regular physiotherapy with the hope that she can build strength in a bid to avoid surgery. “They say if it hasn’t healed properly then they will look at taking some different action.” View the full article

By Jonny Turner The team behind Old Town Road are certain Australasia never got to see the best of their brilliant pacer. Wear and tear injuries have halted the six-year-old’s pacer spring campaign with the decision being made to retire the outstanding top-level performer. Old Town Road compiled an outstanding resume for trainer and part-owner John Dickie, placing in the biggest of races like the Hunter Cup, The Race by Grins and the New Zealand Free-For-All. Though a Group One win proved elusive, Dickie is certain it was a feat well within his pacer’s ability. “A lot of people might say he wasn’t good enough to win a Group One, but I am absolutely certain he was.” “No one would be able to convince me otherwise.” “He had a fetlock issue that we had to manage and we weren’t able to have him at his best all of the time.” “Last year it was a battle right the way through to try to get him right.” Old Town Road made one of the quickest rises to open class seen in New Zealand, starting in the New Zealand Cup in just his 12th career start. Winning eight of his first 11 starts kicked off a whirlwind ride for the horse’s breeders and owners Ben and Karen Calder who raced the horse with Dickie and his son Josh. When looking back on some of Old Town Road’s biggest performances, Dickie points to his pacer’s efforts to flash home into placings in the Hunter Cup and in the Ashburton Flying Stakes, in what was the horse’s first real taste of open class company, as some of his best. When reflecting on the short but brilliant career of Old Town Road, Ben Calder is in full agreement with his trainer. “You look back and wonder what might have been,” Calder said. “I think the horse deserved to win a Group One and he was good enough to do it.” “He took us on a wonderful ride and gave us some great thrills. He won two Holmes DGs and ran some great placings in big races.” “The trip to Australia for the Hunter Cup was a big thrill.” “One of the other thrills was that he was a Southland bred and owned horse and he was right up with the best of them.” The journey with Old Town Road was made special for the Calders as the pacer is from a family the couple have built their interest in breeding and racing around. Old Town Road is a direct descendant of the Calders’ first horse, Grinaldi. The Calders bought Grinaldi at the National Yearling Sales before going on to buy his dam Tanisa two years later. Tanisa is the granddam of Old Town Road’s dam Lucy’s Way. The Calders have one horse from the breed to carry on with in Romantic Road, a four-year-old with Southland horseman Allan Beck. Old Town Road’s career record : 31 starts 10 wins $489,044 in stakes View the full article

The McMillan Equine Feeds New Zealand Junior Drivers Championships, the $30,000 Silk Road Northern Spring Series Final, and the first ever running of the Group 3 The Dark Horse at Invercargill will all feature during another busy harness racing week, between now and Sunday. There are six race meetings in all, starting with the weekly Trot into Tuesday meeting at Cambridge today and finishing at Ascot Park on Sunday. The Junior Drivers’ Championships start at Cambridge today and then move to Addington on Wednesday and Friday. To see the Junior Drivers’ Liftout click here The Group 3 The Dark Horse for the four-year-old and older mares has attracted a big and quality field of 15. It is named after top trotting mare Dark Horse, who retired in 2021 after winning 14 races and accruing $144,276 in stakes for Branxholme trainer Nathan Williamson and the Griffins Syndicate. To see the The Dark Horse field click here The $30,000 Silk Road Northern Spring Series Final will be held this Friday after the fifth and final heats was taken out by Wicked Wanda last Friday night. It was her second win of the series. The heat winners so far for F&Ms up to R59: Heat 1, September 13 – You Little Beauty, Cyren Shard, Kourtney Kardash Heat 2, September 21 – Courtney Rose, Akatea, Always B Stunning Heat 3, September 27 – Wicked Wanda, Mhai Surfer Girl, Minjee Heat 4, October 4 – Seaside Rose, Double Quick, Always B Stunning Heat 5, October 11 – Wicked Wanda, Mhai Surfer Girl, Courtney Rose The first two in each heat automatically qualified for the final, and if a horse wins a heat and the final then the win will be penalty free. Friday night will also see the Heats 1 and 2 for the latest Northern Metro Series. They are for R59 three-year-old and older trotters and pacers. The first five home in each of the four races will qualify for the $35,000 Final on Friday October 25. Like the Silk Road series should a horse win both a heat and a final, the win in the final will be penalty free. All horses racing in both the Silk Road and Metro Series will be eligible for the new $1m Golden Gait series. The Golden Gait series on December 20 features 10 races, each worth $100,000 – with five pacing and five trotting races, all over a mile. Three-year-old and older horses have to have raced at least six times at Alexandra Park in the qualifying period (January 1 – December 6) while 2YO horses must have a minimum of four starts. There will seven more meetings at The Park in the qualification period. They are October 18 and 25, November 1, 8, 22 and 29 and December 6. View the full article

Jockey takes over from Alexis Badel on the talented sprinter in Sunday’s Group Two.View the full article

The opening day of the Caulfield Cup Carnival took centre stage last Saturday afternoon, while Rosehill, Ascot and Eagle Farm held strong support cards throughout the day. From the key metropolitan meetings, we have found three runners from Ascot and Rosehill that are worth adding to your blackbook with your chosen bookmaker after performing well early in their preparation. Ascot Track rating: Good 4 Rail position: +2m entire circuit Race 8: Max Simmonds Stakes (1000m) | Time: 0:59.48 Horse to follow: West Star (2nd) West Star returned from a four-month spell in the Max Simmonds Stakes on the opening day at Ascot Racecourse, where the Simon Miller-trained gelding flashed home from the back to run second behind Charino. This son of Playing God had won his last two starts at Belmont over 1000m before his fresh run, a record that installed him as a well-backed favourite last weekend. Chris Parnham settled this guy near the rear of the field before making his move at the 600m mark. Although West Star had to sustain a long run out wide, he finished the best of any of his rivals and should appreciate a rise in trip second-up. When to bet: West Star holds a nomination for several races during The Pinnacles in Western Australia, so it is expected that Simon Miller will keep him fresh for his next run in the Listed Placid Ark Stakes (1200m) on November 16. Rosehill Track rating: Good 4 Rail position: +2m 1500m-900m, +3 remainder Race 8: Alan Brown Stakes (1400m) | Time: 1:22.03 Horse to follow: Territory Express (6th) Following an impressive autumn and winter preparation, Territory Express returned for his spring campaign in the Alan Brown Stakes. The Paul Niceforo-trained galloper was sent around at long odds with horse racing bookmakers; however, he performed much better than his quote suggested. After jumping from barrier 17, Ashley Morgan settled the five-year-old gelding at the back of the field and enjoyed the strong tempo. As the field hit the home turn, this son of Territories started to make his run, switching tracks two or three times and taking runs between his rivals before flashing through the pack to finish sixth. When to bet: As a five-year-old, the Listed Five Diamonds (1800m) on November 9 at Rosehill appears to be the main target for Territory Express. Expect him to contest the Five Diamonds Prelude (1500m) on October 26 at Randwick second-up. Race 9: Group 3 The Nivison (1200m) | Time: 1:09.49 Horse to follow: Coco Jamboo (4th) Coco Jamboo produced one of the better runs in defeat in The Nivison, as the Peter Snowden-trained mare smashed through the line over 1200m behind Olentia. This daughter of Massaat returned for her second racing preparation in Australia last Saturday, following three starts during the winter at Hawkesbury and Eagle Farm, all at Group level. First-up off a three-month spell, the five-year-old mare settled midfield behind the speed, but she was made to wait for a run upon straightening. The winner went straight past this girl before Kerrin McEvoy got her into the clear, and once she got out of traffic, Coco Jamboo flew home to finish fourth. When to bet: After such a strong performance over 1200m, connections will be hoping to receive a ticket into the Group 2 Invitation (1400m) at Randwick on October 26. However, if she doesn’t get an invitation, look out for Coco Jamboo in a 1300m or 1400m race next start. Top horse racing sites for blackbook features Recommended! The Better Bettors! Australian-owned and operated bookmaker! Join MarantelliBet 18+ Gamble Responsibly. THINK. IS THIS A BET YOU REALLY WANT TO PLACE? Horse racing tips View the full article

Ka Ying Rising is a six-time winner from eight outings. David Hayes is eager to test Ka Ying Rising in Sunday’s Group 2 Premier Bowl Handicap (1200m) at Sha Tin, although the dual Hong Kong Champion Trainer (1997/98 & 1998/99) remains wary of an imposing California Spangle threat. The 119-rating Ka Ying Rising is one of Hong Kong’s hottest young sprinters. The four-year-old bossed rivals first-up with top-weight (135lb) in the Class 1 HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup Handicap (1200m) on rain-affected ground at Sha Tin last month. The son of Shamexpress meets reigning Hong Kong Champion Sprinter (2023/24) California Spangle for the first time, among a glittering entry also featuring Invincible Sage, Taj Dragon, Encountered, Flying Ace, Howdeepisyourlove, Beauty Waves, Lucky With You, Majestic Knight, Helios Express, Packing Treadmill and Harmony N Blessed. “Tony Cruz’s horse California Spangle, as we all know, is very good – he’s a world-class horse. It’ll be a good test for my horse,” Hayes said. “It’s a better weight than last time (128lb before declarations), especially when he had top weight and a bad barrier (seven) last start.” Ka Ying Rising’s biggest win came in the HK$4.2 million Group 3 Sha Tin Vase Handicap (1200m) last season. The bay has won his last five starts in a row and carried 20lb more than Beauty Waves when victorious in the HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup. Trained by Pierre Ng, Beauty Waves has since won the HK$4.2 million Group 3 National Day Cup Handicap (1000m) on October 1 under 115lb to now boast a rating of 103. Ng also saddles Taj Dragon. “Beauty Waves meets us worse, so it may not be as easy. He’s had the benefit of a run in between. There’ll be improvement in Ka Ying Rising, he’s a very competitive young horse,” Hayes said. Ka Ying Rising finished first in a recent trial at Conghua on October 10 under Zac Purton, clocking 1:11.19 for the 1200m effort on turf. Last-start Class 2 winner Harmony N Blessed also represents Hayes in Sunday’s Premier Bowl, with Keagan De Melo engaged to ride. “He’s probably hit his peak form at the moment and he’s doing very well back at home. He’s going to have to step it up a little to be competitive but he’s definitely in the right space of mind to do so,” De Melo said. Matthew Chadwick rides featherweight chance Beauty Waves, the last-start Group 3 winner. He is hoping for a smooth run atop the Irish-bred by Starspangledbanner. “He gets in with another light weight and hopefully he gets a nice and easy draw, finds a nice position and hits the line again,” Chadwick said. Lucky With You has placed twice in Group 1s. After finishing sixth in the rain affected HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup, trainer Frankie Lor wants dry conditions this Sunday. “He’s good. Last time it was raining and that’s not good for him. Usually, a good or firm track is better for him,” Lor said. Andrea Atzeni reunites with Lucky With You – runner-up at odds of +3600 in the 2023 HK$26 million Group 1 Hong Kong Sprint (1200m) behind Lucky Sweynesse. Vincent Ho partners Taj Dragon for Ng. The combination teamed up to win last Sunday’s HK$5.35 million Group 2 Sha Tin Trophy Handicap (1600m) with Galaxy Patch. Taj Dragon is a six-time 1400m winner at Sha Tin, including the HK$4.2 million Group 3 Chinese Club Challenge Cup Handicap (1400m). The Mehmas gelding was second to The Golden Scenery in the HK$4.2 million Group 3 Celebration Cup Handicap (1400m). “The blinkers will sharpen him up and we’ll see how he goes because his fitness is there. Last time he was beaten by the handicap,” Ho said. “There’s decent horses in the race – I’m looking forward to it.” Taj Dragon carried 135lb in defeat first-up, while The Golden Scenery won under 121lb. Last season’s Hong Kong Derby (2000m) hero Massive Sovereign turned heads with an impressive turf trial win over 1600m at Sha Tin. The Dennis Yip-trained Massive Sovereign is expected to return on 3 November at Sha Tin in the HK$4.2 million Group 3 Sa Sa Ladies’ Purse Handicap (1800m) before tackling the HK$5.35 million Group 2 BOCHK Jockey Club Cup (2000m) a fortnight after. “I think after this trial he will improve even more and be even fitter. He trialled very good this morning, I’m very happy and Zac was happy, too,” Yip said. Massive Sovereign has had two trials ahead of his return. He finished third in the first of the hit outs behind Romantic Warrior at Happy Valley on October 5. The Group 1-placed Five G Patch closed off nicely in the same barrier trial under Brenton Avdulla for Tony Cruz. Horse racing news
 View the full article

What Warwick Farm Races Where Warwick Farm Racecourse – 2 Hume Hwy, Warwick Farm NSW 2170 When Wednesday, October 16, 2024 First Race 1:30pm AEDT Visit Dabble Metropolitan racing returns to Warwick Farm Racecourse on Wednesday afternoon, with a competitive eight-race program set for decision. The rail is out +3m the entire circuit, and although the track is rated a Good 4 at the time of acceptances, punters can expect a downgrade to the Soft range courtesy of some scattered showers predicted in the lead-up. The opening event is scheduled to get underway at 1:30pm local time. Best Bet at Warwick Farm: Newfoundland Newfoundland goes in search of back-to-back wins after a dominant performance at Rosehill on October 2. The son of Deep Impact had no issues getting through the Soft conditions on that occasion, outstaying his rivals to score by 2.3 lengths. The Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott-trained gelding does cop 2.5kgs staying in BM72 company, however, with Tim Clark likely to gain the gun-run throughout from barrier two; Newfoundland should get every opportunity drop his rivals turning for home to claim his third-career win. Best Bet Race 4 – #3 Newfoundland (2) 6yo Gelding | T: Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott | J: Tim Clark (60.5kg) Bet with Neds Next Best at Warwick Farm: Confess Our Dreams Confess Our Dreams appears ready to peak third-up into the campaign after a tough front-running effort at Rosehill on September 28. She ran into a classy BM78, and despite being outclassed by the likes of Peace Treaty and Paharari, the Brad Widdup-trained mare never shirked the task. James McDonald takes the reins this time around in a weaker BM72 contest, and with barrier two allowing the Shalaa mare to cross to the front with relative ease, Confess Our Dreams should give followers a bold sight turning for home. Next Best Race 5 – #2 Confess Our Dreams (2) 4yo Mare | T: Brad Widdup | J: James McDonald (61kg) Bet with Picklebet Best Value at Warwick Farm: First Mission First Mission debuts for the Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou barn on the back of two strong barrier trials. His latest piece of work at Rosehill on October 4 particularly caught the eye, with the son of Snitzel weaving a passage in the concluding stages to get within a nose of Mayweather. He appears have plenty of raw ability, and with experienced hoop Kerrin McEvoy in the saddle, punters can expect First Mission to make a first-up statement at a good price with horse racing bookmakers. Best Value Race 3 – #4 First Mission (8) 3yo Colt | T: Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou | J: Kerrin McEvoy (57kg) Bet with Dabble Wednesday quaddie tips for Warwick Farm Warwick Farm quadrella selections October 16, 2024 2-11 1-2-3-4-10-12 1-2-3-7-9 1-3-4-7-9-10-11 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip (Quaddie Link from Boombet needed^) Horse racing tips View the full article

Douglas Whyte is one of Hong Kong racing’s greatest figures. Trainer Douglas Whyte is predicting a bright future for Young Arrow’s racing career in Hong Kong as the Singapore import is pointed towards the first section of Wednesday night’s HK$1.86 million Class 3 Flying Handicap (1200m) at Happy Valley. A fast-closing third first-up this season in September, the HKJC Racing Club Limited-owned Young Arrow won once from two starts in Singapore before arriving in Hong Kong. Whyte feels the four-year-old sired by Showtime has what it takes to thrive in his new surroundings. “He’s a thorough gentleman and he looks like he’s going to be a very nice horse. He could possibly work his way into Class 2. That’s the feel he gives you in the morning and mentally he has settled down,” Whyte said. The 66-rating Australian-bred has placed third twice from three starts in Hong Kong, both times over tomorrow night’s course and distance. Karis Teetan rides again from gate six, assigned 123lb against 11 opponents. “He’s doing things the right way and that’s all you can ask of him at the moment,” Whyte said. “I think that he is probably going to be a lovely 1400 metre horse.” Young Arrow’s sole pre-import win came on the Polytrack at Kranji over 1100m for trainer Daniel Meagher. The gelding is one of nine horses currently in training for the HKJC Racing Club Limited, a subsidiary of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, which was introduced in 2007 with the view of promoting horse racing to young enthusiasts of the sport. “He came here very raw and immature, he didn’t know what he was doing. I can see why they put him on the Polytrack, jumped and went (forward) – because he can do that but in Hong Kong there’s a bit more pressure in the early stages, so he’s doing things differently and more professionally,” Whyte said. Young Arrow’s dam Hediard is a half-sister to Group 1-placed Ready For Victory and five-time winner Exocet. He was purchased at the 2022 Magic Millions Gold Coast 2YOs In Training Sale to race in Singapore for $230,000 (approx. HK$1.25 million). Whyte saddles eight runners at Happy Valley, spread across all races. This is the second time this season he has saddled as many horses. He is also represented by Speedy Chariot, Brave Of Friends, Prince Alex, Shinkansen, Sterling Wongchoy, Victor The Rapid and Ivy League. Shinkansen is a one-time city circuit winner. Whyte’s chestnut heads back to his preferred course to contest the second section of the Class 4 Speedy Handicap (1200m) under Teetan. “He’s going good. He was probably a bit unlucky last time but he’s running well. He loves the Valley. Getting away from Sha Tin settles him down a bit and he loves a bit of speed in races, so it certainly suits him,” Whyte said. Shinkansen carries 121lb and steps away from gate one against 11 rivals. Teetan rides three for Whyte, also pairing with Victor The Rapid in the Class 3 LONGINES Cup Handicap (1200m), a race Whyte nearly captured in 2021 after Harmony Fire was second by a nose. Sporting the same silks as Group 1 hero Victor The Winner, Victor The Rapid returns first-up this week after two barrier trials, the first of which came at the Valley with Teetan, where the duo finished first over 1200m in 1m 11.73s on 20 September. Hong Kong’s all-time leader for wins as a jockey (1,813), Whyte has three victories, eight seconds, and seven thirds from 68 runners this term. “Not bad. Too many seconds, but as long as they’re running well, that means they’re healthy,” he said. Now without his banner horse, Russian Emperor, twice Hong Kong Champion Stayer (2021/22 & 2022/23) who recently retired to Living Legends in Australia, Whyte is on the search for another of his calibre to fly the stable’s flag at home and abroad. “I haven’t found one just as of yet. They’re very pricey. It’s been a bit tough trying to find one, they’re very hard to come by and they do cost a lot of money,” Whyte said. Majestic Knight is entered to run for Whyte in Sunday’s Group 2 Premier Bowl Handicap (1200m) at Sha Tin. Horse racing news
 View the full article

David Hayes is eager to test Ka Ying Rising (NZ) (Shamexpress) in Sunday’s (20 October) HK$5.35 million Gr.2 Premier Bowl Handicap (1200m) at Sha Tin, although the dual Hong Kong Champion Trainer remains wary of an imposing California Spangle threat. The 119-rating Ka Ying Rising is one of Hong Kong’s hottest young sprinters. The four-year-old bossed rivals first-up with top-weight (135lb) in the Class 1 HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup Handicap (1200m) on rain affected ground at Sha Tin last month. The son of Shamexpress meets reigning Hong Kong Champion Sprinter California Spangle for the first time, among a glittering entry also featuring Invincible Sage, Taj Dragon, Encountered, Flying Ace, Howdeepisyourlove, Beauty Waves, Lucky With You, Majestic Knight, Helios Express, Packing Treadmill and Harmony N Blessed. “Tony Cruz’s horse California Spangle, as we all know, is very good – he’s a world-class horse. It’ll be a good test for my horse,” Hayes said. “It’s a better weight than last time (128lb before declarations), especially when he had top weight and a bad barrier (seven) last start.” Ka Ying Rising’s biggest win came in the HK$4.2 million Gr.3 Sha Tin Vase Handicap (1200m) last season. The bay has won his last five starts in a row and carried 20lb more than Beauty Waves when victorious in the HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup. Trained by Pierre Ng, Beauty Waves has since won the HK$4.2 million Gr.3 National Day Cup Handicap (1000m) on 1 October under 115lb to now boast a rating of 103. Ng also saddles Taj Dragon. “Beauty Waves meets us worse, so it may not be as easy. He’s had the benefit of a run in between. There’ll be improvement in Ka Ying Rising, he’s a very competitive young horse,” Hayes said. Ka Ying Rising finished first in a recent trial at Conghua on 10 October under Zac Purton, clocking 1m 11.19s for the 1200m effort on turf. Last-start Class 2 winner Harmony N Blessed also represents Hayes in Sunday’s Premier Bowl, with Keagan De Melo engaged to ride. “He’s probably hit his peak form at the moment and he’s doing very well back at home. He’s going to have to step it up a little to be competitive but he’s definitely in the right space of mind to do so,” De Melo said. Matthew Chadwick rides featherweight chance Beauty Waves, the last-start Group 3 winner. He is hoping for a smooth run atop the Irish-bred by Starspangledbanner. “He gets in with another light weight and hopefully he gets a nice and easy draw, finds a nice position and hits the line again,” Chadwick said. Lucky With You has placed twice in Group 1s. After finishing sixth in the rain affected HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup, trainer Frankie Lor wants dry conditions this Sunday. “He’s good. Last time it was raining and that’s not good for him. Usually, a good or firm track is better for him,” Lor said. Andrea Atzeni reunites with Lucky With You – runner-up at odds of 36/1 in the 2023 HK$26 million G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint (1200m) behind Lucky Sweynesse. Vincent Ho partners Taj Dragon for Ng. The combination teamed up to win last Sunday’s (13 October) HK$5.35 million G2 Sha Tin Trophy Handicap (1600m) with Galaxy Patch. Taj Dragon is a six-time 1400m winner at Sha Tin, including the HK$4.2 million Gr.3 Chinese Club Challenge Cup Handicap (1400m). The Mehmas gelding was second to The Golden Scenery in the HK$4.2 million Gr.3 Celebration Cup Handicap (1400m). “The blinkers will sharpen him up and we’ll see how he goes because his fitness is there. Last time he was beaten by the handicap,” Ho said. “There’s decent horses in the race – I’m looking forward to it.” Taj Dragon carried 135lb in defeat first-up, while The Golden Scenery won under 121lb. View the full article

A more suitable preparation has I Wish I Win (NZ) (Savabeel) co-trainer Peter Moody eagerly looking forward to his elite sprinter’s second shot at The Everest this Saturday in Sydney. I Wish I Win was beaten narrowly into second place in the race 12 months ago, but Moody explained in an interview with Southside Racing that the horse has enjoyed a strong lead-up this year to the A$20 million race after coming in in 2023. “The races were run to suit better this year,” Moody said. “He was able to run in the Moir (1000m) and then he went three weeks into the Manikato (1200m) as his final lead-in and last year we didn’t have those options. “He’s a horse that likes a 21-day break between races as he gets a few aches and pains when he has a hit-out. So that extra week enables him to get right over the race. “Last year, we went off six weeks from the Memsie (1400m) to The Everest and we failed by a head, so if we can find a head this year, we’ll be right in the mix. “Whether the preparation has made a significant difference, I don’t know, but I probably haven’t had to train him as hard and just allow him to race himself into condition and he’s thrived on that. “I thought he worked very nice. He had a hit-out on the course proper. He strode out nicely, his action was good and he seemed to pull up very well. “We’ve had a good preparation heading to The Everest on Saturday. We’ve been able to do all our work at home. He’s had two lead-in runs – without winning admittedly – but I thought he ran well on both occasions.” I Wish I Win will be ridden by Luke Nolen and is The Everest’s current $5.50 favourite. View the full article

Quality mare Islington Lass (NZ) (Proisir) sounded a warning to her rivals in next Sunday’s Gr.3 Gee and Hickton Funeral Directors Thompson Handicap (1600m) with a commanding performance at the Foxton trials on Tuesday. Guided by local apprentice Lily Sutherland, Islington Lass settled in the trailing position from her inside gate, cruising through the opening 800m before hitting the lead in the straight and pulling away comfortably in the finish to take out the 1200m heat. Allan Sharrock, who trains Islington Lass out of New Plymouth, had initially planned to have the mare starting in last Saturday’s Gr.1 Livamol Classic (2040m) at Te Rapa after she won at the venue on September 15. In her final lead-in run two weeks later, an eighth-placed finish behind eventual Livamol winner Snazzytavi convinced Sharrock to change tact, opting to head to Trentham following the eye-catching trial. “It was a super trial,” he said. “We probably could’ve gone on to the Livamol after her last run, but I just didn’t think she raced well enough, so we opted to bail out and go to the Thompson next Sunday. “She’s got a very good strike rate, so I couldn’t really put her run there down to anything other than she wasn’t on that day, so I elected to back off her a wee bit and give her a trial today instead. “She’s only got one stumbling block in that race, and that is the stablemate Ladies Man.” Ladies Man (NZ) (Zed) won last year’s Livamol Classic and subsequently placed in the Gr.3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2600m) and Gr.1 Bonecrusher Stakes (2000m), but an interrupted preparation due to a number of abandonments ruled the son of Zed out of defending his crown last weekend. The talented seven-year-old showed plenty of fight when finishing second to fellow topweight Mustang Valley over a mile at Tauranga on October 5, his second run of the current campaign. “He’s a very good horse and they’ll go toe-to-toe in the Thompson, she (Islington Lass) will probably get four kilograms off him, so maybe that will be the difference, who knows,” Sharrock said. “He’s going pretty well too the big boy, so it will be a tight contest. “He’s strong up to a mile-and-a-half and she’s probably the same, she’s out of a Montjeu mare who goes back to Limitless’ family (Brisbane Cup winner), so you could easily see her getting past 2000m. “Safely through that race, we’ll make some plans towards Christmas.” Sharrock’s stable will have a sole representative at Otaki this Saturday, with well-performed mare Sumi (NZ) (Atlante) contesting the Open 1600m. The Atlante mare is a winner of seven races and has placed at Group Three and Listed level through her career. She finished fifth at her most recent start in the Gr.3 Taranaki Breeders’ Stakes (1400m) a fortnight ago, two lengths behind The Hottie. “It was a good run, she probably needed something to drag her into the race at the 600,” Sharrock said. “Harry Grace (jockey) rode her well, she was a little bit tardily away but he gave her a nice run in transit. The run had merit and this looked a winnable race on Saturday, so I think she’ll be right in it up to her teeth.” View the full article

Ciaron Maher says Pride Of Jenni (Pride Of Dubai) could not be going any better as she returns to the scene of her most devastating win this weekend. The superstar mare heads to Randwick to contest the Gr.1 King Charles III Stakes (1600m), her first run in Sydney since her demolition win in the Gr.1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) at the course in autumn. “It’s exciting,” trainer Ciaron Maher said. “It doesn’t matter where you run her, it’s exciting every time you take her to the races.” The seven-year-old daughter of Pride Of Dubai galloped at Cranbourne on Monday morning under regular hoop Declan Bates, who was once again pleased with the mare’s work at home. “She worked this morning and worked really well, pretty similar to what she did leading into Moonee Valley (Feehan Stakes),” Maher said. “She’ll travel up Wednesday. I’m pretty happy with her, she’s in a good spot, Dec (Bates) knows her really well and he was basically a passenger again today just holding her as quiet as he could.” Maher confirmed Pride Of Jenni would still be a likely starter in the Cox Plate on the back-up. “Wednesday and then Saturday. We’ll have a look at the Cox Plate after that,” Maher said. “This has been her target right from the time she went out.” A daughter of Pride Of Dubai, Pride Of Jenni was bred by Trelawney Stud and is out of the O’Reilly mare Sancerre. View the full article

Front-running galloper Shamus (NZ) (Shamexpress) indicated he is on track for another bold showing at Ellerslie when winning his trial comfortably at Avondale on Tuesday. The son of Shamexpress was among the better three-year-old’s of his year winning the Gr.2 Wellington Guineas (1400m) and placing in the Gr.3 Waikato Guineas (2000m), and went on to place in the Listed Lightning Handicap (1200m) in the following season. At the recommendation of his former trainer Allan Sharrock, Shamus joined the Pukekohe stable of Moira and Kieran Murdoch early this year with the appeal of their renowned beach training, and since, the gelding has been back in the winner’s circle on two occasions. The first of these was in the Waipu Cup (1400m) at Ruakaka, before he defied punters with an impressive all-the-way win over 1400m at Ellerslie on September 21, defeating a quality field of Group-level horses. Moira Murdoch indicated the six-year-old will return to the Auckland course next Saturday, with Tuesday’s 1000m trial fitting in well prior to his next assignment. In the hands of Ace Lawson-Carroll, who partnered the gelding in both of those victories, Shamus went straight to the lead and was never headed, holding a strong gallop to the line under little pressure over Uderzo. “I was very happy with him, he needed a good hit-out as he will be racing on the 26th back at Ellerslie,” Murdoch said. “He does all of his work at the beach so he’s ticking over nicely out there.” During the week, the Murdochs will have five representatives at their local meeting on Wednesday, including Full Noise (NZ) (Turn Me Loose) in the Head To Trackside.co.nz 1200. The Turn Me Loose four-year-old made a strong account of himself finishing third on three occasions over the winter period at Ruakaka, twice in behind eye-catching local Dan Vegas. “He’s a nice horse resuming, he’s raced at Ruakaka so he’s still unknown on the softer track, but we’ll soon find out,” Murdoch said. “He’s fresh-up after a spell, but he’s done plenty of work and we’ve opted to race him over trialling today (Tuesday).” The likely Heavy surface also poses a question for three-year-old Horrie (NZ) (American Pharoah), who will have his second start in the Dunstan Horsefeeds 1400 under Jasmine Fawcett. “He got a little bit fazed down on the fence at Ruakaka (on debut), in both of his trials before that he had been off the fence, so he was just a little bit green,” Murdoch said. “He had a jump-out at Ellerslie and it’s the same for him here conditions-wise, we would’ve preferred a better track, so we’ll see how he goes.” View the full article

Kim Reid has always seen something special in Hi Yo Sass Bomb (NZ) (Complacent), and the mare rewarded her trainer for persistence with an impressive runner-up finish in the Gr.1 Livamol Classic (2040m) at Te Rapa last Saturday. A daughter of Complacent, Hi Yo Sass Bomb showed promise in her opening two starts before breaking her wither, keeping her away from the race track for over 12 months. When she returned in mid-2023, the mare flew through the grades, going from breaking her maiden to finishing second in the Gr.3 Taranaki Cup (1600m) and winning the Gr.3 Cuddle Stakes (1600m), all in one preparation. A winning fresh-up effort in August gave Reid confidence to push on to the latter Group Ones during the Hawke’s Bay Spring Carnival, the Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m) and the Livamol, which were subsequently run at Matamata and Te Rapa respectively. Hi Yo Sass Bomb finished near the tail in the Arrowfield, placing her at odds of $71 in the middle-distance feature, but a well-executed ride by Courtney Barnes had the mare tracking strongly into the straight, where she powered home to finish 3 – ½ lengths adrift of race winner Snazzytavi. Now settled back at her base in New Plymouth, Reid couldn’t have been happier with the performance, made even more special with a horse she co-owns alongside her parents, who bred Hi Yo Sass Bomb. “It was just amazing, she’s a beautiful horse and I have so much respect for her,” she said. “I’ve always believed that trip would suit her and the Livamol was our goal from a long way out. She had only had one previous run over that distance, so it was great to see her do what I thought she was capable of. “Courtney gave her a beautiful ride, I was just watching the head-on shots and I thought it was amazing how she was able to get her to shift from where she was on the inside. She ran a similar race to Snazzytavi, but had to get out off the rail, so she did a great job and has always had a really good finish on her. “She’s back home in the paddock now, she’s pretty tough horse and just takes everything in her stride. She’s got a great attitude and has really come into herself, she’ll go into race-days as a relaxed horse, then comes home and eats up. “I ride her every day and she can be sassy in her trackwork, but once she’s at the races, she’s the complete professional and nothing really seems to faze her.” Reflecting on the rollercoaster career of Hi Yo Sass Bomb to date, where she has exceeded $300,000 in stakes earnings from 19 starts, Reid admitted the injury had been a tough blow for such a promising horse. “She’s always been sassy, but she’s been a standout since the day she was born. She was full of beans and had a real spark about her,” she said. “As a youngster, she showed plenty of ability, but when she broke her wither, I did wonder if I could do this anymore, because I’d had such a high opinion of her and I was pretty upset and gutted about the whole thing. “Now looking back, I think it was probably the making of her, because we can have a tendency to rush these horses and I think the time has worked in her favour. “I really thought she was something special so I didn’t want to give up on her, and once she came back, I did everything I could to do the best by her and see it through. “She’s grown into a lovely horse, so I just try to do everything I can to keep her happy.” Despite such a powerful display over the Livamol distance, Reid is considering options back in trip, with the Gr.2 Dunstan Horsefeeds Auckland Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1400m) and the Gr.3 Cal Izuzu Stakes (1600m) on her radar over the coming months. “It’s a bit tricky, we’ll possibly head to the Breeders’ at Pukekohe then on to the Cal Izuzu Stakes back at Te Rapa,” she said. “In terms of getting back over 2000m, I think we’ll avoid Ellerslie in general as I don’t think that track will suit her, because she likes to sit back a bit more in her races. “We may look at other options further down the track at that range.” In the meantime, Reid hopes to have another home-bred star in the making in her care, with the mare’s full-brother, out of Hi Yo Soo (NZ) (Complacent), taking the next step towards a future racing career. “Her full-brother is just coming back into work now, he’s a three-year-old,” she said. “I haven’t been in any rush with him as I think time will be good for him as well. “I had Holly Dravitzki break him in and she did a beautiful job, so he’s just starting to do some water work, then will do some hill work before coming into the track. He’s quite a spunky little fella as well, he seems to have a great attitude so I’ll just try to keep him happy and mentally engaged.” View the full article

The stage is set for a thrilling edition of the time-honoured Group 1 $5 million Caulfield Cup (2400m) this weekend in Melbourne, with a stellar lineup of stayers confirmed to battle it out over the iconic mile and a half at Caulfield with many horses using the race as a springboard to the Melbourne Cup […] The post Caulfield Cup 2024 Field & Barriers Finalised: Buckaroo Favourite in Eight appeared first on HorseRacing.com.au. View the full article

Warmonger. Photo: Darren Winningham Co-trainer Michael Kent Jnr remains unfazed by Warmonger’s below-par performance in the Group 1 Turnbull Stakes (2000m) as the Group 1 Queensland Derby (2400m) winner gears up for Saturday’s $5 million Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m). After a strong fourth in the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) first-up, Warmonger finished 11th in the Turnbull behind Via Sistina, a result Kent Jnr attributes to second-up fatigue. “The best example of a horse being second-up, having the edge off, and then rebounding was Via Sistina, who beat us in the Turnbull,” Kent Jnr told Racing.com. “Second-up off a hard run where he chased home Pride Of Jenni on a heavy track, he had the edge off him and was looking for 2400 metres. “We’ve trained him for the Caulfield Cup, and I certainly think he’s on track.” With Warmonger stepping up in distance and dropping in weight, Kent Jnr is optimistic about his chances. “He likes to get his toe into the ground, and there is rain forecast, so it won’t hurt his chances. “He has been vibrant at home, so all the signs are positive.” Connections plan to continue on to the Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m) after the Caulfield Cup, with Warmonger currently rated a $15 chance with horse racing bookmakers for Saturday and an $18 chance for the Flemington showpiece on November 5. Horse racing news
 View the full article

Growing Empire. (Photo by George Sal/Racing Photos) Kerrin McEvoy is confident that Growing Empire can deliver him a record-breaking fourth win in Saturday’s The Everest (1200m). McEvoy, the only jockey to have competed in every edition of the $20 million sprint, will be riding Growing Empire for the first time this weekend. The Ciaron Maher-trained colt, racing in Yulong’s slot, had a strong run of four consecutive stakes victories before narrowly missing out on Group 1 success, finishing second to Southport Tycoon in the Group 1 Manikato Stakes (1200m). “He’s an improving colt, and he’s got a good amount of brilliance and class about him,” McEvoy told Racing NSW. “I had my first sit on him on Friday, and I was quite taken by him. He’s travelled up in good shape. It’s a great race, an open race, but one thing he’s shown the racing world already is he’s an exciting colt that’s on the improve. “He’s one of the least experienced in the race, but he was great against the older horses in the Manikato, chasing what I’d call an above-average speed. “He kicked off that and was only just collared.” McEvoy also highlighted the colt’s versatility: “You’d like to think he’s a little bit versatile, whether he’s in front or behind a couple. “One thing I know he has is a good turn of foot, so we’ll be trying to ride him to that advantage.” Horse racing news
 View the full article

This week, Michael sits down with John Messara, six years on from his own report into the racing industry here. So what does he think about the impact it’s had? They also chat about the state of the Aussie landscape, John’s career, and look ahead to the Everest. Guerin Report – Ep. 7, Ft. John Messara (youtube.com) View the full article

HBRI (Hawke’s Bay Racing Inc.) and NZTR (New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing) Management have jointly announced today that due to continued concerns around the track’s performance, the decision has been made to bring forward a reconstruction of the track. As a result, racing will not resume at the venue in the immediate future. HBRI Chairman, Eliot Cooper commented, “While this news will be disappointing for the Hawke’s Bay community and racing enthusiasts, both parties believe that prioritising this project is essential for the long-term future of racing in the region.” NZTR Chief Operating Officer, Darin Balcombe reiterated this message. “The decision reflects a commitment to addressing the underlying track issues for participants and horses alike.” The HBRI and NZTR Board and Management will meet later in the month to discuss next steps. Further information will be provided to the industry following this meeting to ensure stakeholders remain informed of the progress and potential timelines moving forward. Replacement dates for upcoming scheduled Hastings racedays will be advised over the coming days. View the full article

Melbourne Cup contender, Vauban. (Photo by George Sal/Racing Photos) William Buick is set to ride the Willie Mullins-trained Vauban in the upcoming Group 1 Melbourne Cup (3200m), while Kerrin McEvoy has secured the ride on stablemate Absurde (Fastnet Rock) for the Flemington showcase. Buick previously guided Vauban to victory in the Group 2 Lonsdale Cup (3319m) at York in August and more recently to a runner-up finish in the Group 1 Irish St Leger (2816m) last month. “They seemed to travel very well, they’ve been here before and know what it’s like,” Mullins’ assistant David Casey told Racing.com. “Since they’ve arrived in Werribee, they’ve been very good. Vauban has put back on everything he lost, and Absurde has regained most of it. “They’ve done a bit of a hack and a canter, and we’re delighted with them.” Casey also shared insight into the stable’s approach for Vauban: “We went a different route last year because he had to qualify, and he did that after Ascot in Naas. We wanted to make sure we could get him here.” Regarding Absurde, Casey explained, “We were initially considering the Caulfield Cup, but after his win at Chester, we decided to go straight to the Melbourne Cup.” Horse racing news
 View the full article

Alice Springs trainer Paul Gardner, with former Darwin-based jockey Casey Hunter following a win at Pioneer Park, has at least one horse nominated in all three categories in the 2024 Red Centre Racing Awards. Finalists have been revealed for the 2024 Red Centre Racing Awards in the Northern Territory. The presentation ceremony will take place following the Alice Springs race meeting at Pioneer Park on November 9. Apart from the Alice Springs Turf Club, the Tennant Creek Racing Club – which hosts its annual Cup Day meeting in May – helps form the Alice Springs and Provincial premiership. The equine awards include the Middle Distance/Stayer of the Year above 1400m, Sprinter of the Year up to 1200m, and Three-Year-Old of the Year. A judging panel will vote on each category, with the winner in each group in line to become Horse of the Year. That same judging panel will then cast their vote to determine the Horse of the Year. The voting period is from August 1, 2023 until July 31, 2024, with the finalists in each category having at least four starts in the Red Centre. Finalists will be assessed only on performances within the category being judged; however, intrastate and interstate performances will also be considered. Horses nominated in their respective category are as follows. Middle Distance/Stayer: Paul Gardner’s Better Not Fuss, Terry Gillett’s Altar Boy, Carol Hunter’s Desert Lass, Kerry Petrick’s Venting, and Ray Viney’s Duty and Quizzle. As winner of the Alice Springs Cup (2050m) in April, Venting will no doubt come under strong consideration. Sprinter: Gardner’s Red Wraith, Gillett’s Great Buy, Morgan’s Don’t Be Dramatic and Garrucha, and Petrick’s Throw At Da Stumps. Red Wraith had six wins and six minor placings from 17 starts, while Garrucha, formerly trained by Russell Bell, picked up five wins and two minor placings from 11 starts. Three-Year-Old: Gardner’s Better Not Fuss and Hey Bull, Kevin Lamprecht’s Beyond Ready, Morgan’s Don’t Be Dramatic, and Petrick’s Prancingintherain. Better Not Fuss not only won the NT Guineas (1600m) in Alice Springs, but finished fourth in the Darwin Guineas (1600m) and NT Derby (2050m) in the Top End. Beyond Ready – runner-up in the NT Guineas – had four Alice Springs starts and made two Darwin appearances for three wins, two wins and a third from 1200-1600m. Gillett ended the 2023/24 campaign as the leading trainer with 25 wins from Gardner (23), Paul Denton was the leading jockey with 24 wins from Sonja Logan (19.5), and Dakota Gillett was the leading apprentice with 16 wins from Emma Lines (14). Horse racing news
 View the full article

Observations on the European Racing Scene turns the spotlight on the best European races of the day, highlighting well-bred horses early in their careers, horses of note returning to action and young runners that achieved notable results in the sales ring. Tuesday's Observations features a half-brother to a Classic heroine. 2.45 Yarmouth, Novice, £9,950, 2yo, 7f 3y (SWT) SALLAAL (IRE) (Frankel {GB}) is a significant newcomer at a track his trainer Roger Varian has used for several of his better prospects, being a half-brother to this year's G1 1,000 Guineas heroine Elmalka (GB) (Kingman {GB}) and the multiple group 1-winning globetrotter Benbatl (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}). Among the rivals of Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum's homebred is Wicked (Fr) (Kingman {GB}), Wathnan Racing's half-brother to the Classic-winning duo St Mark's Basilica (Fr) (Siyouni {Fr}) and Magna Grecia (Ire) (Invincible Spirit {Ire}) from the John and Thady Gosden stable. 6.00 Newcastle, Novice, £6,300, 2yo, c/g, 7f 14y (AWT) WAR HAWK (IRE) (Mehmas {Ire}) is a full-brother to the GI Del Mar Oaks and multiple grade II winner Going Global (Ire) and half to the dual group scorer Mitbaahy (Ire) (Profitable {Ire}) who represents Rabbah Racing having cost 180,000gns at Tattersalls October Book 1. Simon and Ed Crisford have charge of the newcomer, whose rivals include Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum's similarly-unraced Archie Watson trainee L'Karama (GB) (Starspangledbanner {Aus}), another who cost that amount at that auction and who is a half-brother to the dual group winner Greenland (Ire) (Saxon Warrior {Jpn}). The post Frankel Half to Elmalka Debuts at Yarmouth appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Lingering hurricane waters throughout the stable area and damage to several barn roofs have forced Tampa Bay Downs officials to reschedule the opening of the backstretch to Nov. 4.View the full article

BH Interview: Chris BakerView the full article

Graded stakes winner Copper Bullet (More Than Ready–Allegory, by Unbridled's Song) has been acquired by Marjorie Farms and will stand the 2025 season at the Fredericksburg, Texas farm for a fee of $4,000. The 9-year-old, winner of the 2017 GII Saratoga Special, previously stood at Darby Dan Farm in Kentucky. Copper Bullet is the sire of multiple stakes winner Copper Tax and stakes winner Ponce de Leon. “Copper Bullet's on-track success with both speed and at distance fits a wide range of breeders. Texas and the Southwest will be well served adding him to the region,” said the farm's bloodstock manager Jimmy Clanin The post Copper Bullet to Marjorie Farms in Texas appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article