Wandering Eyes

Liberty National (Maxfield), named a 'TDN Rising Star, presented by Hagyard' following an impressive maiden victory on the Stars of Tomorrow II program at Churchill Downs Nov. 29, could make his next start in the $100,000 Gun Runner Stakes at Fair Grounds Dec. 20. A well-beaten sixth on debut for trainer Ken McPeek in a live maiden special weight at Keeneland Oct. 16, the Brookdale Racing, Inc. and Fern Circle Stables colorbearer took to two turns with aplomb at second asking with a 4 1/4-length, come-from-behind decision beneath the Twin Spires, good for an 81 Beyer Speed Figure. “We're leaning towards the Gun Runner. When I get back from my trip, we'll nail down exact details,” McPeek said from Buenos Aires while attending this weekend's Gran Premio International Carlos Pellegrini. “He acts like a horse that can go next level.” Liberty National, a $525,000 Keeneland September yearling produced by an unraced full-sister to GISW Paynter (Awesome Again), is one of four 'Rising Stars' from the first crop of Maxfield. This is also the female family of legendary two-time GI Breeders' Cup Classic winner and leading sire Tiznow. Liberty National was bred in Kentucky by Rock Ridge Thoroughbreds, LLC. Liberty National stretches out and breaks his maiden at second asking in R7 at @churchilldowns for trainer @kennymcpeek with @b_hernandezjr aboard! #TwinSpiresReplay pic.twitter.com/JULpPBaVLA — TwinSpires Racing (@TwinSpires) November 29, 2025 “Big, strong serious horse with all the right parts in the right places,” McPeek said. “He's got an aircraft carrier body type. You need those kind of horses to compete at the highest level.” McPeek, responsible for 2024 GI Kentucky Derby hero Mystik Dan (Goldencents), also has GII Kentucky Jockey Club S. runner-up Universe (Global Campaign) and GI Claiborne Breeders' Futurity runner-up and 'Rising Star' Blackout Time (Not This Time) on the road to the Louisville. The latter was a late scratch out of the GI Breeders' Cup Juvenile. “We've got some horses that are in the pipeline to take us back to the highest mountains,” McPeek said. The post Following ‘Rising Star’ Performance, Liberty National ‘A Horse That Can Go Next Level’ for McPeek appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Echo Town (by Speightstown), the winner of the GI H. Allen Jerkens, was purchased by Tyree Wolesensky and has relocated to her Leadem Farm in Arkansas for the 2026 breeding season, according to a release from Vinery Sales on Friday. Brokered by Vinery's Jay Goodwin, Echo Town has arrived in Arkansas and is ready for inspection. He will stand the 2026 season for $3,500. “Just really excited for Arkansas breeders to have a Grade I-winning sprinter with that pedigree, who has already proven the ability to sire precocious graded stakes winners,” said Goodwin. “He is exactly what Arkansas needs. I would've bred to him in Kentucky this year, so I will definitely support him with my mares in Arkansas.” The son of sire of sires, Speightstown, recorded 10 starts, four wins, two seconds, and as many thirds. The bay campaigned by L and N Racing and trained by Steve Asmussen had a signature score during his 3-year-old season when he defeated six graded stakes winner in the Allen Jerkens at the Spa. Prior to that, Echo Town was the runner-up in the GI Woody Stephens Stakes at Belmont Park, which was his first attempt at a higher-level prize. As a sire, Echo Town is responsible for four total crops and two of racing age. Lifetime, he claims 45 winners out of 73 starters. Among them is Echo Sound–a first-crop filly for the sire–who began her career three-for-three with a stakes win followed by scores in the GIII Miss Preakness Stakes and the GIII Victory Ride Stakes. The former member of Coolmore America's stallion roster has also sired stakes winning filly, Elegant Echo, who started racing with a pair of wins. Joining her is Three Echoes, who broke his maiden as a juvenile at Churchill Downs then placed in the GIII Sanford Stakes. Recently, the new Arkansas-based sire had juvenile winners at Delta Downs and Charles Town, plus Dakota's Lil Auror was stakes-placed in the Juvenile Fillies Sprint Stakes at Gulfstream. Echo Town, out of GSW Letgomyecho (Menifee), comes from a pedigree covered with black-type. His half-siblings include champion 2-year-old filly Echo Zulu (Gun Runner), GSW J Boys Echo (Mineshaft) and the stakes-placed dam of SW Saturday Flirt (Mendelssohn). The post Stallion Echo Town Relocated To Stand In Arkansas For 2026 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The 2025 International Conference for the Health, Safety and Welfare of Jockeys (ICHSWJ) was held in Hong Kong on December 11-12. Themed Performance Medicine in Racing – Developing and Protecting the Jockey, the conference took an applied, evidence-based approach, featuring presentations and panel discussions with leading experts in the field. “This conference represents one of the most important conversations taking place within the racing industry today,” said Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, chair of the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA). “For too long, jockey safety and wellbeing have been discussed with admiration for the resilience of the athlete rather than with the structured, systematic, and scientifically informed approach required of a modern, high-performance sport. “This conference marks another step in changing that and ensuring that our riders receive nothing less than the highest standards of care, the strongest protections available, and the most rigorous pursuit of knowledge that cHontemporary sports science and medicine can offer.” Across the two days, speakers took part in 13 sessions, including Inside the Mind of the Jockey: Performance, Wellbeing and Lessons from the Field; Entrapment Protocols; and Fuelling the Ride: Practical Insights and Evolving Strategies in Jockey Nutrition. The 2025 ICHSWJ was organised by the Jockeys Health and Wellbeing Committee of the IFHA and supported by the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC). Darragh O'Loughlin, chief executive officer of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) and chair of the IFHA Jockey Health and Wellbeing Committee, added, “Our theme this year, Performance Medicine in Racing – Developing and Protecting the Jockey, reflects how far the conversation has come. No longer focused solely on injury response, we now look more broadly at what it truly means to support a jockey – before, during and after their time in the saddle. “This conference is built around real-world practice, scientific evidence and shared insight. It brings together doctors, physiotherapists, psychologists, lawyers, researchers, regulators, nutritionists, current and former jockeys, and racing professionals from over a dozen countries. We are not just here to talk about jockey health. We are here to build the systems, culture, and knowledge base that can sustain it.” The post International Jockeys Conference Held in Hong Kong appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Hong Kong is the December place to be for world-class horseracing and Sunday's Longines Hong Kong International Races–offering some HK$130 million (£12.5 million/US$16.7 million) across four races–has once again attracted a veritable who's who from a variety of racing jurisdictions. In a real racing rarity, each of the winners from last year's meeting returns to Sha Tin and each has realistic chances to repeat the dose. Indeed, it would be a complete shock if two of the four–Romantic Warrior (Acclamation) and Ka Ying Rising (Shamexpress)–fail to deliver in the HK$40-million G1 Longines Hong Kong Cup and HK$28-million G1 Longines Hong Kong Sprint, respectively. Voyage Bubble (Deep Field) and Giavellotto (Mastercraftsman) are bigger queries, respectively, in what appear to be more wide-open renewals of the HK$36-million G1 Longines Hong Kong Mile and HK$26-million G1 Longines Hong Kong Vase. Romantic Warrior made history in 2024, becoming the first to win Hong Kong's most valuable race three times on the spin when accounting for Liberty Island (Duramente) ahead of a three-race assault in the desert–a victory in the G1 Jebel Hatta and excruciating runner-up efforts in the G1 Saudi Cup and G1 Dubai Turf–which added a cool $4.8 million to his bankroll. After having a screw inserted in a fetlock, he defied a 232-absence to easily defeat Voyage Bubble in the G2 BOCHK Jockey Club Cup three weeks ago. “It's pretty remarkable to think what he's trying to achieve; he's just been such a good horse for such a long time, his longevity has been remarkable,” jockey James McDonald said. “He's a funny horse, I've had nothing like it in my life in terms of that I never feel like he's ever going to lose, no matter what. He's just a superb racehorse; he always gives his best, which is most important, he's got a great racing style. It's just a privilege to ride him.” The Japanese challenge is formed by G1 Osaka Hai hero Bellagio Opera (Lord Kanaloa) and Rousham Park (Harbinger), while the Francis Graffard yard sends out G1 Prix Jean Romanet victress Quisisana (Le Havre). Galen (Gleneagles) raids off a cracking second in last month's G2 Bahrain International Trophy for Joseph O'Brien. KYR Shooting For Sweet Sixteen in Sprint Ka Ying Rising meanwhile goes for his 16th straight success and a victory in the Sprint would tie Golden Sixty (Medaglia d'Oro) and put him one win behind the legendary Silent Witness (El Moxie). It all seems a fait accompli, and if the one hole is remotely a concern for the G1 The Everest conqueror, his connections certainly were not letting on. “I think [jockey] Zac [Purton] will be very happy,” said his trainer David Hayes. “It's more important what Zac thinks this time from the barrier because he has to do the job. I will leave it to him. Ka Ying Rising | HKJC “The horse jumps fast and he puts him in a spot, and then hopefully he gets a trouble-free run. You can get blocked in from barrier one. I don't think he will. If he jumps fast, he can have a nice easy run to the home turn.” Japan's Satono Reve, whose sire Lord Kanaloa was a scintillating two-time winner of this race, makes his third trip into Sha Tin, having finished a clear second in the G1 Chairman's Sprint Prize last April after filling third spot–with Helios Express (Toronado) second–in this event 12 months ago. IJC champion Ryan Moore takes the ride. Khaadem (Dark Angel), winner of the G1 QE II Jubilee Stakes in 2024 and a latest third in the Nov. 1 GI Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint, will need to work out a trip from barrier 13 beneath Oisin Murphy. Voyage Bubble Faces Youthful Challenge In Mile Given the presence of the two aforementioned heavyweights, Voyage Bubble somehow manages to fly under the radar, but has carved out a pretty remarkable career of his own, thank you very much. Winner of the BMW Hong Kong Derby at four, he annexed this race last December, then went on to become only the second 'Triple Crown' winner in Hong Kong history with victories in the G1 Stewards' Cup (1600m), G1 Citi Hong Kong Gold Cup (2000m) and the season-ending G1 Champions and Chater Cup (2400m) during the first half of 2025. He'll drop back to the mile after settling for a pacesetting second to Romantic Warrior in the Jockey Club Cup three weeks ago. “What he did last year really surprised me as I always thought he was a miler,” said Purton. “As he went to 2000m, he seemed to go to another level, and when he went to 2400m, he was a different horse again. He might well be better suited to a mile and a quarter or a mile and a half, but he's a lovely horse to ride; he does anything you want.” Voyage Bubble | HKJC For all his achievements, Voyage Bubble does not carry the '1' saddle towel. The goes to Japan's Soul Rush (Rulership), last year's Mile runner-up who famously–or infamously, if you like–took down the colours of Romantic Warrior in the nine-furlong Dubai Turf. Galaxy Patch (Wandjina) benefitted from a fast-run renewal of the G2 BOCHK Private Wealth Jockey Club Mile on trials day Nov. 23 and charged home up the fence to score with McDonald in the irons and would love some pace to run at here, while My Wish (Flying Artie) will look to atone for a fourth as the odds-on pop in the same race. Aussie ex-pat trainer Mark Newnham is of the opinion that a three-week turnaround will benefit the 5-year-old. G1 Queen Anne Stakes upsetter Docklands (Massaat) exits a ninth (Soul Rush sixth) in the Nov. 23 G1 Mile Championship and needs to find some improvement, while Beauvatier (Lope de Vega) impressed in a Friday hit-out at Sha Tin and posted a career-best when running out a ready winner of the G2 Challenge Stakes over the straight 1400 metres at Newmarket Oct. 10. He looms one of the meeting's more interesting rough chances. The 3-year-old filly Embroidery (Admire Mars), whose sire upset Beauty Generation in this at odds of 26-1 back in 2019 and was third to Golden Sixty in 2020, drops in trip after narrowly taking the age- and sex-restricted G1 Shuka Sho (2000m) in October. She previously landed the G1 Oka Sho (Japanese 1000 Guineas) going the metric mile. Euros Look To Continue Vase Domination The thoughts of the connections of some of the six Europeans entered for Sunday's G1 Longines Hong Kong Vase–a race won just three times by locally based gallopers–appeared in some detail in these pages in the Friday TDN, with Giavellotto returning to Hong Kong in arguably better form than last year, when given a lovely ride from Oisin Murphy. While Hong Kong stayers won't be troubling the judge in all likelihood, Urban Chic (Suave Richard) would not be a giant surprise. Winner of the 2024 G1 Kikuka Sho (Japanese St Leger) over 3000 metres, the chestnut ran on nicely to be fifth, beaten under two lengths in the G1 Tenno Sho (Autumn) by Masquerade Ball (Duramente). The latter did his part to flatter the form of that event when just losing the bob to Calandagan (Gleneagles) in the G1 Japan Cup a couple of weekends ago. Urban Chic carries the same Silk Racing colours as two-time Vase hero Glory Vase (Deep Impact). Giavellotto | HKJC The post All Four Defending Champs Return For HKIR appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

A breeding right to Newsells Park Stud stallion Without Parole, the sire of this year's National Stakes winner Zavateri, features among five lots added to the catalogue for the Arqana December Online Sale, which takes place between the hours of 3pm and 5pm (local time) on Tuesday, December 16. In addition to the first 15 lots announced on Wednesday, buyers will also have the opportunity to purchase a breeding right to European champion juvenile and Classic winner Native Trail, who has been represented by his first foals at the sales this year. A similar offering is available for the multiple Group 1-winning sprinter Bradsell, who embarked on his first season at the National Stud in 2025. Completing the now-20-strong list of entries is a 1/60th share in Prince Gibraltar, along with a 1/100th share in Armor. The catalogue is available to view here. The post Breeding Right to Without Parole Added to Arqana December Online Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The annual Treo Eile Christmas Show was held at the Emerald Equestrian Centre near Enfield on Thursday, with Team Randox, captained by multiple champion jockey Paul Townend, lifting the Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) perpetual trophy as the winners of this year's Treo Eile Thoroughbred Classic Cup. The feature class on the night, the HRI Treo Eile Thoroughbred Classic is designed to showcase the very best of Ireland's retrained racehorses. Teams of four took part in a timed competition, followed by a jump-off to decide the winners. The tense conclusion saw Team Randox narrowly defeat Gavin Cromwell Racing, captained by Gold Cup-winning jockey Mark Walsh, with the former Flat jockey Kevin Manning leading Leopardstown Racecourse to a third-place finish. Colin Keane, Jack Kennedy and Robbie Power were among the other star names to take part, along with equine heroes such as Gold Cup winner Al Boum Photo, multiple Grade 1-winning hurdler Supasundae and Champion Bumper scorer Briar Hill. Elsehwere, Olympian Sam Watson hosted the 'Connolly's RED MILLS Training your Thoroughbred' clinic. Watson was joined by Evita Thomsen and Grace Day, who both have had a successful year eventing their thoroughbreds. Supporting the evening were industry leaders such as Godolphin, the Aga Khan, Coolmore, the IEBF and Foal Levy Fund. HRI were title sponsors, while Weatherbys Ireland GSB Ltd, the Aga Khan Studs and Horse Sport Ireland all sponsored individual classes earlier in the day. John Osborne, director of Welfare at Horse Racing Ireland, said, “2025 has been another great year for Treo Eile. Andrea Ryan has joined the team and the wide industry support gives great confidence for the future. The growth of the thoroughbred classes across the summer months and the number of Irish participants is the obvious fruit of the work of Anne, Melanie and the wider Treo Eile community. “The Christmas Show is now a calendar highlight and we thank everybody for their help in making it such a success in such a short period. The horses remain the focus and we have so many great stories to tell.” Andrea Ryan, CEO of Treo Eile, added, “The Treo Eile Christmas Show is the perfect showcase of the talent, temperament and adaptability of the thoroughbred. It's wonderful to see the Treo Eile community grow from year to year, as a result of the efforts of Treo Eile supported initiatives. A huge thank you to our hugely dedicated show committee, all of our volunteers, riders, those who provide horses and to all our generous sponsors.” The post Paul Townend Stars at Treo Eile Christmas Show appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

4th-GP, $70k, Msw, 2yo, 7f, post time: 1:47 p.m. ET Jackson Hole (Nyquist), a $1.3-million Keeneland September yearling, debuts for WinStar Farm, CHC Inc. and First Go Racing and trainer Todd Pletcher. He was produced by the winning Broman homebred Spa Treatment (Bernardini), a daughter of SW & GISP Silver Knockers (Silver Deputy). The Nyquist x Bernardini cross is also responsible for GISWs Gretzky the Great, Immersive and Nysos. Jackson Hole has drawn widest of all in post seven with John Velazquez aboard. He is the 7-5 morning-line favorite. TJCIS PPs The post Saturday’s Insights: $1.3m Keeneland September Grad Jackson Hole Debuts at Gulfstream appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Hanshin Juvenile Fillies (G1) Dec. 14 is the first of three big races for Japanese 2-year-olds with connections hoping to find contenders for next year's Classics.View the full article

The Betfred Derby will be run for prize-money of £2 million in 2026, making it the joint-richest race in Britain alongside the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes. This £500,000 boost in purse from last year is just one of a raft of “significant changes” announced by the Jockey Club for Epsom's Betfred Derby Festival next June. The programme of reinvigoration, with investment of £6 million, includes Coolmore being announced as sponsor of the Coronation Cup, which will be run for £1 million – more than double its previous prize-money of £450,000 – and will switch from the Friday card to join the Derby on Saturday. There will be an overall increase of £1.375 million in prize-money across the two days of racing, making Betfred Derby Day the second-most valuable raceday to be run next year in the UK after Qipco British Champions Day at Ascot. “Epsom Downs Racecourse is the home of the 'Original Derby', a race which is widely regarded as the most important two and a half minutes in the racing and breeding industry, shaping pedigrees, stallion careers and bloodstock markets for generations,” said Epsom's general manager Jim Allen. “Since the first running in 1780, the Betfred Derby has not only established itself as the definitive test of the Thoroughbred, but as a race so prestigious that its name has been adopted worldwide, inspiring hundreds of races from the Kentucky Derby to races in Japan, Australia and Hong Kong.” Following dwindling attendance at the Derby meeting, including particularly disappointing figures during a wet weekend this year of 22,312 on Derby day and 15,133 for the Oaks, the team at Epsom, with colleagues from across the Jockey Club, undertook a six-month review process involving analysis of customer, stakeholder and visitor feedback and data. On Derby day, the Coolmore Coronation Cup, Betfred Dash and Betfred Derby will run in succession to create “a thrilling 90 minutes of horseracing”. Epsom will also now be home to the Group 3 contest previously known as the John O'Gaunt Stakes and run at Haydock. Renamed the Tattenham Corner Stakes, it too will feature on Saturday's card and is one of seven black-type races across the meeting. In a bid to attract young racegoers, under-18s will be given free entry both days to general admission enclosures when accompanied by an adult, with complimentary hospitality and dining area experiences for anyone under the age of 12, and discounts for 12 to 17-year-olds. The customer-focused initiatives include the installation of banks of 'bleacher-style' covered seating along the final furlong on the Hill on the inside of the track “giving racegoers a 'bird's eye' view of the action like never before”, a new undercover area in the grandstand enclosure and improved track-side hospitality. A new DerbyFest area on the Hill, which will be run in partnership with sporting events promoter Queensberry, is also planned, and there will also be free car parking for all racegoers. Andrew Cooper, head of racing and clerk of the course at Epsom Downs, said, “The Betfred Derby is the pinnacle of any Flat trainer or jockey's career and a race that remains incredibly important for the Thoroughbred and breeding industry. “It is vital that we continue to do everything we can to maintain its status and prestige and that's been an important focus of the whole team throughout this review process. We want to ensure that we are hosting competitive racing, not just in our feature races, but across the two-day festival. We had clear objectives in this regard, with our key aim to produce races that suit the wide demographic of horses currently in training.” Of the planned changes, he explained, “Switching the Coolmore Coronation Cup to be run on the Saturday, the introduction of a new seven-furlong Group 3 race and making this year's change to 72-hour declarations for the Betfred Derby itself permanent are all changes that I think demonstrate the importance placed on what happens on the track. “An increase in prize-money of £1.375 million over the two days will also bring us very close to the £5 million mark, while increasing The Betfred Derby's prize money to £2 million will ensure that no other race in the UK will be run for more, in line with the stature of the race. This commitment would not have been possible without the ongoing support of Betfred, along with that of the British Horseracing Authority and the European Flat Pattern Committee.” In 2025, Aidan O'Brien and the Coolmore partners won their tenth Coronation Cup with Jan Brueghel, as well as winning the Oaks with Minnie Hauk and Derby with Lambourn. Next year will make Coolmore's first sponsorship at the track where they have enjoyed such success. Coolmore's John Magnier, Michael Tabor and Derrick Smith | Healy Racing Cooper added, “We are also hugely grateful to Michael Tabor, Derrick Smith and John Magnier from Coolmore for their support of the Coronation Cup, another of the races we identified as needing investment. By more than doubling its prize-money and giving it a prime place on the Saturday we are demonstrating our commitment to promoting it as one of the outstanding middle-distance races for older horses. “Finally, we must also thank World Pool for their support, with eight races each day reflecting the importance of the two days globally, along with their invaluable contribution enabling us to increase prize-money across the two days. The Betfred Oaks goes back to being a World Pool race in 2026, while the Betfred Derby is the second-highest UK race for World Pool turnover.” Aidan O'Brien, whose 11 wins in the Derby make him the most successful trainer in the race's history, voiced his support for the planned changes. He said, “From the time that matings are planned at Coolmore, right the way through to the training process here at Ballydoyle, there is always huge emphasis placed on the Derby. If we had to pick one race in the calendar to win, the Derby would invariably be it. “We are very grateful to the Jockey Club for their increased investment for next year's Derby Festival and welcome all the new initiatives, particularly those aimed at encouraging more young people to come racing, as they are the future of the sport.” The new hospitality facilities at Epsom in 2026 will include an area named after O'Brien's first Derby winner Galileo, which will feature live entertainment and an after-racing party. A glass-fronted trackside marquee named 1780, reflecting the race's origins, will provide another hospitality option, along with the new seating on the Hill, which can be used by annual members and guests of the Cedric's and 1780 hospitality areas. The Hill enclosure remains free to enter on both days of the Betfred Derby Festival. Allen added, “The changes we are making, both on and off the track, would not have been possible without crucial input from racegoers, annual members, the local community, a number of stakeholders from right across the sport and our sponsors Betfred and other partners, all of which have helped shape this painstaking review process. “It is so important for us to be continually evolving and improving to give everyone the best possible experience across the two days. Ultimately, we want to deliver something that Epsom and the surrounding area, along with everyone connected with British racing, can feel truly proud of and one which is befitting of The Betfred Derby Festival's status as a world-class and prestigious event.” He continued, “From a customer experience perspective, we want to make The Betfred Derby Festival accessible to everyone. From the top hats in the Queen Elizabeth II Stand, to free entry for all on The Hill, we want every racegoer and spectator to feel they have a place at Epsom Downs on the first weekend in June.” The post Betfred Derby Boosted to £2m; Coolmore to Sponsor £1m Coronation Cup appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

James McDonald and Zac Purton are optimistic they will have a big say in a wide-open Group One Hong Kong Mile at Sha Tin on Sunday when they ride Galaxy Patch and Voyage Bubble, respectively. In what looms as the most open contest of the four Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) features, the Mile could become a blockbuster showdown between the two champion jockeys. Galaxy Patch and Voyage Bubble are two of the headline acts in the HK$36 million race, with the former coming off a...View the full article

Francis-Henri Graffard is “not scared” of fellow French raider Sosie as he gears Goliath up for a crack at Sunday’s Group One Hong Kong Vase (2,400m) at Sha Tin. A dual Group One winner, including the prestigious King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2,400m) at Ascot last year and more recently the Grosser Preis von Baden (2,400m) in Germany, Goliath is one of the leading players for Sunday’s top-level prize. Immortalised by his quirky stringhalt, which sees him “stomp” his left hind due to...View the full article

David Hayes has downplayed any concerns over star sprinter Ka Ying Rising (NZ) (Shamespress) drawing barrier one for the first time in his career when he confronts 12 rivals in the HK$28 million Gr.1 LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint at Sha Tin (1200m) on Sunday (14 December). Aiming for his 16th consecutive win with Ka Ying Rising, Hayes said the only fear was that the world’s highest-rated sprinter could miss the start. “I think the shortest way home is the rail,” Hayes said. “He is the fastest horse in the world, so unless he makes a proper blooper out of the gates, it has to be a huge advantage. “My only reservation is if he did accidentally flop the start – but flopping the start from barrier 12 or 10 is just as bad anyway.’’ Hayes said he expected Ka Ying Rising, who worked over 400m in 29.5s today (Friday, 12 December) at Sha Tin, to jump well, and it will be the first time he has drawn on the rail. With horses like Win Carnelian (barrier 11) and Beauty Waves (barrier nine) expected to take up the front-running role, Hayes said the pair would need to be going at a very fast tempo to lead his gelding. “When horses get tired in fast run races, they wander, and runs comes for good horses for that reason,” he said. “If it is a slow-run race, they travel right into the straight and that would be a concern. But if it was a slow race, I would expect Zac to lead.” David Hayes has trained Ka Ying Rising to five Group 1 victories. Photo: HKJC Hayes said he would take a similar path to last season and stretch Ka Ying Rising out to 1400m for next month’s HK$13 million Gr.1 Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup (1400m) at Sha Tin. Hayes said he firmly believes they could run the champion at 1600m, but claimed there wasn’t much point when he was such a dominant sprinter. “I think he is in what you would call his golden era. I think last year he was a bit immature,” he said. “And this year, he is a bigger, (more) powerful horse. We really felt going into his last race that he is at a level he has never been. Visually it looked that way and he nearly smashed the course record, easing down from the 200 (metres). It was a fairly easy watch.” Despite Ka Ying Rising dominating the discussion, Hayes said they had to respect the best international sprint form offered by some of the other contenders. “So, it’s not a walk in the park, but the (overseas) market has him favourite, and around 20/1 second (favourite),” he said. “I hope the bloody market is right but I have a lot of respect for those big international races. They are not easy to compete in and those horses are coming out of those.” Hayes’ other runner in the sprint, Tomodachi Kokoroe, has drawn barrier seven, and he expects him to finish in the placings if he gets a good run. Purton, who also has no fears over Ka Ying Rising’s barrier, believes that his last start victory in the Gr.2 BOCHK Private Banking Jockey Club Sprint (1200m) at Sha Tin on 23 November was probably the best of his career. It was his first start since his trip to Australia, where he won the world’s richest turf race, the AU$20 million (approx. HK$101 million) Gr.1 The Everest (1200m) after jumping from barrier seven. Sunday’s (14 December) 10-race fixture at Sha Tin starts at 12.25pm with the Class 4 Fairy King Prawn Handicap (1400m). View the full article

Darrell Hollinshead’s bid for a second success in Saturday’s Gr.3 Waikato Cup (2400m) has been dealt a blow, but he remains in the hunt to turn back the clock. The Te Awamutu trainer won the staying feature 19 years ago with Bak Da Chief (NZ) (Chief Bearhart) and had expected to have two runners in this weekend’s Skycity Hamilton-sponsored event at Te Rapa. However, his hopes will now solely rest on Rosetown Princess (NZ) (Redwood) with stablemate Ramblin’ Rose (NZ) (Complacent) ruled out by injury. “I think she would have been a good chance, she’s a very good stayer going forward but she’s got a bit of filling in a tendon,” Hollinshead said. “It’s a shame for the boys who race her, they’re a good crew and had planned for a big day out.” With luck in the running, he is expecting a strong showing from Rosetown Princess who hails from the same family as Bak Da Chief. The 2006 Cup winner also found fame in retirement as the dam of two-time Group One winner Te Akau Shark (NZ) (Rip Van Winkle) while a half-sister produced the Gr.1 Easter Handicap (1600m) winner Pondarosa Miss (NZ) (High Chaparral) and multiple stakes winner and top-flight placegetter Ecuador (NZ) (High Chaparral). “The hardest thing for Rosetown Princess will be that draw (16) because she needs a bit of cover,” Hollinshead said. The daughter of Redwood was narrowly beaten two runs back in the Gr.3 Counties Cup (2100m) at Pukekohe and was then unplaced on the course when she dropped back in grade. “She got cut off at the start and she ended up last and had that big weight (60kg), she was only four lengths off the winner, so it wasn’t a bad run,” Hollinshead said. “She has trained on well since and drops back to 53kg on Saturday so that helps. “I might give her a break after this, she’s been up a long time and she’s very versatile, she can go on all ground and always tries.” Rosetown Princess will again be ridden by Darren Danis, who will also be aboard another family member in Bak Da Angel (NZ) (Ace High), who will contest the Gr.3 J Swap Sprint (1400m). The daughter of Ace High has been a dual winner in the lower grades this preparation before she finished midfield in the Gr.2 Auckland Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1400m) and a last-start fourth in the Gr.3 Concorde Stakes (1200m). “It’s a very strong field on Saturday, but if she gets some cover then she’ll be a top four chance,” Hollinshead said. “She is a very good horse and is getting better and better all the time and has got a nice draw (three) to work from.” View the full article

With NZB Kiwi favourite Well Written (Written Tycoon) confirmed to run in the Entain/TAB NZ slot in New Zealand’s richest race, attention is now being focused on decisions around other prominent candidates for the $4 million March 7 feature. Those horses include the Pam Gerard-trained Gr.1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m) quinella pair Romanoff (NZ) (Belardo) and Affirmative Action (Yes Yes Yes). “No decision has been made yet on either horse,” Gerard said. “As the 2000 Guineas winner, Romanoff has first option on the Canterbury Jockey Club slot and those negotiations are still taking place between the horse’s connections and the CJC.” Gerard reports that her star three-year-old pair are making pleasing progress back in full work following some time out to recover from their trip south. “They’re back in the stable and doing well, I’m very pleased with them both for what’s shaping as an exciting summer. “What we have penciled in at this stage is for Affirmative Action to run in the Auckland Guineas (Gr.2, 1400m) at Ellerslie on Boxing Day, and Romanoff will have his first start back in the Levin Classic (Gr. 2, 1400m) at Trentham on the first Saturday in January. “That way the first time they’ll meet again will be the Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) at the end of January and all going to plan they’ll then target the Kiwi.” CJC chief executive Tim Mills has confirmed that his club is adhering to the original intention behind the slot. “Our modus operandi in having a slot is to utilise it as a prize for running in our Guineas races,” Mills said. “As an incentive for competing in our races it works very well for the club. In the case of the horse with first option, Romanoff, as the winner of the 2000 Guineas, he’s eligible for the $1 million bonus if he can finish in the first three in the NZB Kiwi.” Well Written, unbeaten after three starts capped by the Gr.1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m), holds clear favouritism for both feature three-year-old races. She is currently quoted at $1.90 for the TAB Karaka Millions 3YO and at $2.30 for the NZB Kiwi. Affirmative Action shares the second line at $5 with La Dorada in the former race and is the $8 third favourite for the NZB Kiwi. In the Karaka Millions 3YO, Romanoff shares the fourth line at $10 with He Who Dares, while his NZB Kiwi quote is $12. Meanwhile, Gerard is hoping to continue Ballymore Stables’ momentum with a handful of runners at Friday’s Tauranga twilight meeting and Saturday’s SkyCity Hamilton Waikato Cup fixture at Te Rapa. Clear Conscience (Alabama Express) in the Rob Pinny Reality 1200 and The Frenchman in the Kiwi Bus Builders Maiden make up her Tauranga team. “Clear Conscience is probably the pick of our runners at Tauranga,” she said. “She showed ability with several good runs at three and her lead-up trials have been good, so we’re hoping for a good fresh-up effort even though she’s drawn a tricky gate. “The Frenchman is having just his second start and he’s a horse that’s going to need more than 1600m. It hasn’t helped that we found out after the fields had closed that the distance was reduced to 1500m because of the burst water main up the 1600m chute.” With Shoes (NZ) (Derryn) ruled out of Saturday’s Rating 75 sprint due to a wide draw, Gerard will also saddle two runners at Te Rapa, Gr.1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m) runner-up Dubai Gold (NZ) (Pride Of Dubai) in the Gr.2 Cal Isuzu Stakes (1600m) and Vougeot (NZ) (Eminent) in the Dunstan Horsefeeds Stayers Championship Qualifier. “Nothing went right for Dubai Gold in her first-up run and we’ve put a line through that, and while this is weight-for-age, I’m very happy with the progress she’s made lately and it wouldn’t be a total surprise to see her get some of it,” she said. “I like Vougeot as an up-and-coming stayer and he’s another one whose last start is best ignored after we rode him in a way that really didn’t suit.” Gerard also reports that stable apprentice Joe Nishizuka was due to undergo surgery to a broken collarbone at Waikato Hospital on Friday following a training track fall on Thursday morning. “It’s a nasty break that will take some mending, which is unfortunate for Joe, but to his credit he’s resilient with a positive attitude,” she said. View the full article

Stakes performer Smooth Operator (NZ) (Turn Me Loose) hasn’t had the best of luck over the last month, but trainer Stephanie Faulkner believes he is back on track to defend his title in Saturday’s Howley Joinery Southland Crystals (2200m) at Ascot Park. The six-year-old gelding headed into New Zealand Cup Week in solid form, having finished fourth in the Listed Spring Classic (2000m) at Riccarton in October, but he disappointed over the Cup carnival, finishing 10th and 13th respectively in the Listed Metropolitan Trophy (2600m) and Gr.3 New Zealand Cup (3200m). Things only got worse for the son of Turn Me Loose, who suffered a bacterial infection, but Faulkner said he is now back to full health and ready to fire in his resuming run. “You can rule a line through the New Zealand Cup,” Faulkner said. “He had a bacterial infection since, he had a bit of gunk in the bottom of his lungs, but he seems pretty good with that now.” Smooth Operator has a strong record at Ascot Park, winning two and placing in two of his five starts at the Invercargill track, and Faulkner is hoping he can build on that form this weekend. He looks to have every favour after drawing barrier four, and is set to carry just 54kg, with jockey Rohan Mudhoo to ride. “It is all up to him really. He is definitely up to it if he has his mind in the right place,” Faulkner said. “He seems to race well at Invercargill. I think he likes the overnight trip away. “He is a big, strong horse so he probably won’t even feel Rohan on his back.” All going well after Saturday, Faulkner is keen to contest the Southern Cups Bonus Series with her charge, where a $50,000 winner takes all bonus is up for grabs. “We had a crack at it last year and I think we were one point short of winning it, so we will give it another go this year,” she said. The Timaru trainer will also head to Ascot Park with three-year-old gelding Fast Like Thunder, who is set to make his debut in the World Solar 3YO (1200m). “I haven’t had him that long, probably three months,” Faulkner said. “I gave him a couple of quiet jump-outs and then he had a trial at Ashburton. “He is a very laidback character. Lee (Callaway, jockey) rode him at the trials and he was thinking he possibly needs a bit more ground, but we thought it was a good place to start, just in his own age group. “We were hoping the track would be more on the Softer side than Good, but we will give him a run and see what happens.” View the full article

Dual Group One winner Ladies Man (NZ) (Zed) has been retired. Bred by Grangewilliam Stud, Ladies Man, a son of their resident stallion Zed, was the younger half-brother to Gr.1 Auckland Cup (3200m) winner Ladies First, and accordingly bore the weight of expectation from a young age. Like his older sibling, he joined the New Plymouth barn of Allan Sharrock and quickly showed his propensity for racing, placing in his first two starts as a three-year-old before winning his maiden over 1400m. He continued his upward trajectory, winning a further three races before placing in the Listed Marton Cup (2200m) as a five-year-old and broke through for his maiden stakes victory at his next start in the Gr.3 Trentham Stakes (2100m). He added placings in the Gr.2 Auckland Cup (3200m) and Gr.3 Metric Mile (1600m) to his record before winning the Gr.1 Livamol Classic (2040m), which set him on a path towards the 2023 Gr.1 Melbourne Cup (3200m). While he failed to make the final field for the iconic race, he performed with distinction in Melbourne, finishing runner-up in the Gr.3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2600m) on Champions Stakes Day at Flemington. He returned to New Zealand where he placed in last year’s Gr.1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) before doubling his elite-level tally in the Gr.1 Mufhasa Classic (1600m) at Trentham last December. He placed in September’s Gr.1 Howden Insurance Mile (1600m) and subsequently ticked over the $1 million mark in earnings before the curtain was brought down on his career after tailing the field home in last Saturday’s Mufhasa Classic. In all, the now eight-year-old gelding won eight and placed in 16 of his 39 career starts, and accrued $1.02 million in prizemoney. Sharrock said Ladies Man was a great stalwart for the stable. “He has been officially retired,” Sharrock said. “We have battled with him (with foot issues and handicap) for a couple of years and it’s not getting any better, so we have pulled pin on his career. “He has done a good job, but it just got too hard. His rating is so high (105), and you can’t run him in a handicap for the weight he gets and he is probably not quite at the level to win the weight-for-age Group Ones now. “He has been a great horse to us, he has won over $1 million and two Group Ones. You have got to make a call and he has done a great job and will find a lovely home.” Sharrock said his two Group One victories were clear highlights, but his Mufhasa Classic triumph was particularly special. “For a horse that was bred to be a stayer, he had a turn of foot,” Sharrock said. “Both of his Group Ones were exciting for us and it has been a good ride for those clients. We have just got to find another one like him, which is hard to do.” Meanwhile, Sharrock will head to Trentham on Sunday with three runners, including in-form gelding Tisse, who will contest the Bill Tito Book Repair Specialist 2100 before he has his first tilt at black-type next month. “He is a pretty smart horse,” Sharrock said. “He is heading towards the Queen Elizabeth (Gr.3, 2400m) on New Year’s Day at Ellerslie and this will be his lead-up race. “He is going pretty well, I am happy with him.” Sharrock will also have a two-pronged attack in the Contemporary Korowai Designs 1600 courtesy of Eizus and Fulla Grace. “Eizus went really well second-up (when fourth at New Plymouth over 1400m after winning first-up over the same distance at Waverley),” he said. “I have implicated blinkers. She has a sticky draw (9), but she will be competitive in that race. “Fulla Grace went average first-up, but it was an off track. She has worked well since and has drawn well (1). She is an each way play.” View the full article

A bright future is being tipped for well-bred three-year-old Day One (Wootton Bassett) following his maiden victory in the Barfoot & Thompson 1600 at Ellerslie on Thursday. He had shown a lot of promise at the trials before running fifth on debut over 1400m at Arawa Park last month, and trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson had been pleased with his subsequent progress. He jumped away well from his wide gate on Thursday, but there was plenty of speed inside him and jockey Opie Bosson was forced to ease his charge back to sit midfield. At the 600m, Bosson followed race favourite Arthur three-wide and presented his charge at the turn and Day One showed a good turn of foot in the concluding stages to score a 1-1/4 length victory. “It was a really good effort, especially after not getting all favours in running, but Opie didn’t panic and the horse produced a big effort to win,” Walker said. “I think he would have learned a lot from the experience and he quickened up like a nice horse. “He’s a big, scopey type of horse with a lot of raw ability, which we saw today, and he’ll only get better as we step him up in distance. “I loved the way he relaxed and then quickened so well in the straight. “Obviously he’s very well bred and it’s great to get another win for Lib Petagna and the Elsdon Park team in Matamata.” Day One hails from a rich pedigree, being a son of ill-fated Coolmore stallion Wootton Bassett and Group One performer Eleonora, a half-sister to Group One performer Supera and the dam of stakes winner Ethereal Star. He was bred and is raced by Elsdon Park principal Lib Petagna, whose bloodstock agent Bruce Perry purchased Eleonora as a yearling on his behalf out of Pencarrow’s 2015 Karaka draft. “As a broodmare, she (Eleonora) seems to be doing a great job as well and it’s exciting to have another nice prospect in Day One,” Perry said. “Day One had a leg issue as a yearling, so we didn’t put him through the sales, but he seems fine now. He’s racing as a gelding and Te Akau are doing a good job with him. “We’ll try and get some black-type with him at his next start, and there’s some nice options over New Year onwards. “The stable has had a high opinion of him and it’s good to see that rewarded at his second start.” Perry is also looking forward to seeing his Maurice half-sister go through the Karaka sales ring next month when offered as lot 178 through Elsdon Park’s draft. “We’ve got a cracking filly by Maurice in the Elsdon Park draft going to the yearling sales in January at Karaka, and Eleonora is in-foal to Super Seth,” Perry said. View the full article

When high-profile syndicator Australian Bloodstock went searching for a top-level horse to take them around the world, there was one that stood out. The only problem was that galloper, accomplished Irish stayer Al Riffa, came with a huge price tag. “He was a fairly obvious horse to target,” said Jamie Lovett, the co-director of Australian Bloodstock. “They made us pay for him, but he was certainly a horse that was easy to find.” One of Australia’s premier syndicators since it was established by...View the full article

This year’s Group One Hong Kong Vase (2,400m) has a wide open feel to it, with stars from around the globe all having strong claims to the staying prize on Sunday’s Longines Hong Kong International Races. To help you get ahead, the Post has compiled videos of every runner’s last start, including the most recent performances of the top raiders. Group One Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (2,400m) – Longchamp – October 5 Sosie – 3rd Giavellotto – 4th Los Angeles – 17th WHAT A RACE! 🤩 DARYZ WINS THE...View the full article

Are you struggling to line-up the local and international form lines for Sunday’s Group One Hong Kong Mile at Sha Tin? To help you, the Post has compiled videos of every runner’s last start, including the most recent performances of the seven foreign raiders. Group One Mile Championship (1,600m) – Kyoto – November 23 Soul Rush – 6th Docklands – 9th G1 number 4️⃣ for JANTAR MANTAR! #ジャンタルマンタル He turns the G1 Mile Championship into a procession! pic.twitter.com/LuEatwIcE7 — World Horse Racing...View the full article

Sunday’s Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m) looks Romantic Warrior’s to lose, but can any of his seven rivals stop the champion’s quest for an unprecedented fourth straight success in the feature? To help you, the Post has compiled videos of every runner’s last start, including the most recent performances of the five foreign raiders. Group One Takarazuka Kinen (2,200m) – Hanshin – June 15 Bellagio Opera – 2nd 【Takarazuka Kinen (G1), 2200m, Hanshin, JRA】 Winner: Meisho Tabaru Review...View the full article

Ka Ying Rising will be a red-hot favourite to make it 16 straight wins in Sunday’s Group One Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m), but who is set to figure behind the world’s best sprinter? To help you, the Post has compiled videos of every runner’s last start, including the most recent performances of the three international raiders. Group One Sprinters Stakes (1,200m) – Nakayama – September 28 Win Carnelian – 1st Satono Reve – 4th 【Sprinters Stakes (G1) , 1200m, Nakayama, JRA】 Winner: Win...View the full article

Romantic Warrior will bid to make more history this Sunday when he chases a record-extending fourth straight victory in the Group One Hong Kong Cup (2,000m). He would also become the first horse to win four times at the Longines Hong Kong International Races. First though, let’s relive the three spine-tingling victories that have ensured one of the greatest gallopers of all time stands on the precipice of the unfathomable. Complete domination As far as absolute brilliance and complete domination...View the full article

Bob Baffert, who has won 14 renditions of the Los Alamitos Futurity (G2), has entered Litmus Test, Provenance, and Blacksmith this year.View the full article

The sun had just barely emerged above the tree line at Turfway Park when Ethan West was given a leg up onto his next galloper that morning. It was the usual late August affair–hot, humid, and deviating from the direct line of the nearest fan made it feel like one was walking through soup…or drowning in it. And yet, the barn moved to the beat of its own drum as everyone went through their usual paces. Emerging from the shed row on the back of an eye-catching grey, West allowed the colt to stand and watch the action on the track in front of him as we chatted about little pleasantries and made the obligatory complaints about the weather. There would be a brief gallop, and then Chunk of Gold (Preservationist) would be brought back for a rinse and graze to end his Friday excitement on an easy note. Plan in place, and off we went with assistant trainer Shania Ehret accompanying the next group of workers while West was on horseback. As we stood there, so did the pair of the hour. Chunk of Gold was quite content to observe the breezers along the rail, watch his stablemates go by, and listen to the tens of scattered conversations between riders returning to the barns. According to West, this behavior was nothing unusual for the GIII West Virginia Derby winner, and it had been his defining personality trait for as long as he'd known his stable star. Almost from day one, West knew he had the horse, but like many young runners, his charge needed time. And as it has for many racehorses–popularly known as the 'tale as old as time'–his auction price did not tell the entire story. Though, if you still didn't know it, then you likely did not watch any of the Kentucky Derby coverage provided by news organizations. The question of his grey's origins was one he answered over, and over, and over again. So, rather than have him shleck through another copy and pasted paragraph explanation, this writer was more curious as to the how and when of the ownership change. He was purchased for $2,500 at the 2023 Fasig-Tipton Kentucky October Yearling sale by Chris Melton out of the Airdrie Stud consignment, and current owner Terry Stephens bought in after the fact, but the latter was alone on the program now. “What happened was–Chris picked him out as a yearling,” said West. “[Melton] bought him at the sale. Why [Chunk of Gold] was that cheap, I don't know. I never saw his X-rays, never saw him as a yearling. I don't know that end of the story. “He went out to the East Coast to train for a little bit and needed more time to mature. Grow up. But they did like the horse. They just weren't ready to press on him.” West said that, with no pressure to get the grey to the races, they sent Chunk of Gold back to Melton's farm in Southern Kentucky, and it was then that Stephens bought into his future Kentucky Derby runner. It started out as a half, but later after the horse broke his maiden at first asking, Melton sold his remaining portion to his new partner. After the aforementioned Dec. 19 maiden special weight at Turfway, it would have seemed that West had a great many well-paying conditions to his disposal, but as it later turned out, those options were a little slimmer than it appeared on the surface. Chunk of Gold popped up on the entries for the Jan. 18 Leonatus Stakes against some tough locals, skipping several of those conditions, due to what West said was simply yet another unfortunate hand dealt to horsemen by Mother Nature. “[The] weather is what convinced us,” he said with a laugh. “We got pounded with terrible weather. The Kentucky winter was terrible. The race we were planning on targeting, they weren't going to use it because of all the cancellations. They weren't going to get to that race in the book, so we were kinda screwed. We knew going in that the [Leonatus] was going to be our next step. It was run in a stake against a bunch of freshly turned 3-year-olds, or wait another three or four weeks before we got an allowance race. “We wanted to take a swing because we knew we wanted to stretch him out. Never in a million years did we think the horse was going to run short.” Chunk of Gold ran a very green second that day, but still well clear of the third-place runner, and kicked off what would be a string of respectable runner-up efforts through Louisiana's Derby Points Series. While he was well beaten by Magnitude (Not This Time) in the GII Risen Star Stakes, and tried bravely to match strides with Tiztastic (Tiz the Law) in the GII Louisiana Derby, those efforts garnered him just enough points to secure a spot in the starting gate. Which, West admits, was more or less the plan all along. Ethan West aboard Chunk of Gold at the Derby | Coady Media “We studied the points. Talked to enough people–[found out] how many it was going to take to get into the starting gate. The consensus was somewhere around 40,” he said. Between the inevitable scratches and horses skipping the race for various reasons, the team calculated that the number would potentially be enough of a buffer and off the dreaded 'Derby Bubble'. And they were right. “We went into the Louisiana Derby thinking 'if he can run fourth, we're in'. That was our target. Obviously, we wanted him to run the best he could, and he exceeded our expectations.” As is an almost universal experience, arriving for the Kentucky Derby proved to be one of the most hectic weeks of West's life. The lead-up celebration–and even the day before Oaks/Derby weekend (affectionately known as Thurby)–carries a lot of new experiences not just for young horses, but for many connections as well. Interviews at nigh overwhelming tallies, a parade of Thoroughbreds most tracks won't see in a year, and enough people to double a small town's population. While many trainers have expressed concerns that the dramatic change in environment would ultimately prove to be their runner's undoing, West admits it wasn't the horse who was stressed, or worried, or even remotely bothered. Chunk of Gold proved to be cool, calm, and collected. “The horse has always had a very relaxed demeanor. He doesn't get worked up over much, he's a very intelligent horse. You can see he's thinking about his next move,” West said. “And that's exactly what he did all week. He's very classy, he stands all day, he goes out to take everything in. Not once did he get turned up by the crowd in the morning, any of the cameras, nothing. “I think [Chunk of Gold] was the calmest out of all of us,” he admits. Quite the hallmark of the Derby phenomenon, isn't it? The most relaxed member of Team Chunk of Gold…was Chunk of Gold. All the more fortuitous knowing that the grey is a May 11 foal, but was blessed with the mind of a salty veteran when the moment called for him to deliver. “He was very professional, and that was one thing that I was very excited to see. It was a big relief. I couldn't image taking one down through all of that who's not like [Chunk of Gold].” For West though, it all came to a head, and the reality hit, during the walkover. “It was very surreal. It was one of those 'holy s**t, we're actually here' type of moments. I did not get much sleep the night before…my nerves were frazzled. The whole week leading up to it is [hectic]. There is so much going on, you're not getting much rest. It's enjoyable, don't get me wrong, but it is very exhausting. “It really got to me when we were walking over…wow. We're finally here. This is the day we planned on. I did my best to keep my game face on, treat it as any other race, but obviously that's impossible at that level.” Chunk of Gold did his team proud that first Saturday in May. Running ninth is nothing to sneeze at by any means, and despite the bedlam around him, he'd held his own. It becomes even more impressive when one glances at his past performances. In just about every race this year, West's charge has produced a different running style, and it was no different for America's marquee spring event. “It was a great race. We were very proud of him, and we still think we have a very nice horse.” Of course, Sovereignty (Into Mischief) has since gone on to stamp himself as king of the hill in North America. But it isn't just him and Journalist (Curlin) who make the running line. Almost every horse to finish in front of Chunk of Gold either went on to win a Grade I race or placed at the graded level. “The best horse doesn't always win, because they're getting so many things thrown at them. Not just the number of horses, but you're throwing 150,000 screaming people [as well]…it's a lot of luck (though he added during the interview that he believed the best horse did win this year).” And his final thoughts now long removed from the event? Both West, and this writer, came to a comfortable conclusion that the Derby was simultaneously the best, most stressful, longest, and shortest day of one's life. Morning works at Turfway (Chunk is on rail) | Coady Media “Interviews were the most exhausting thing. I always had to be on guard for them. I was warned prior to it going in, and was told [the reporters] might throw some off-the-wall stuff I had to be prepared for, but the news stations asked the same question over, and over, and over. “I've never been a big [person who] had a lot of publicity, and had to do a bunch of interviews, or podcasts. I think [the Derby experience] numbed me to the media. I used to get really nervous about [being interviewed], but now it's 'let's go'.” Despite our profession's impressive persistence, West added that he'd barely had time to get home before he was already thinking about a trip out to Churchill Downs next spring. But first came Chunk of Gold, and once the grey was home, rested, and recovered, the planning began for his next target. West knew he wanted to try for a chance to take home one of the regional “Derbys”, and so they settled on the GIII Ohio Derby for his first start since May. Running into Grade I-placed Mo Plex (Complexity) that day, he was again the bridesmaid, but proved he was back to his consistent ways. So, they tried again at Mountaineer for the GIII West Virginia Derby, and in a frontrunning masterclass, Chunk of Gold finally became a Derby winner. Inheriting the lead when East Avenue (Medaglia d'Oro) bobbled out of the gate, West's runner ran some of the easiest fractions he'd ever had on a largely uncontested lead. When :48.23 was posted on the board, the trainer's confidence went right through the roof. “[When] they flashed up a 48 [half-mile split], I started getting excited because I'm like 'he's got this'. This is the slowest pace he's ever seen. He seemed happy to be doing it. They're asking East Avenue to rally, and McAfee (Cloud Computing) is being asked, and Jareth [Loveberry, jockey] was still sitting like a statue. When he asked [Chunk of Gold], he responded exactly like we wanted him to.” The field was left over four lengths in his wake. Coming out of the race, Chunk of Gold remained the same as he ever was–beating the bottom out of the feed tub, training up a storm, and happy-go-lucky as ever. An initial plan had been to target the GI Pennsylvania Derby, but his path eventually diverged to the Bourbon Flight Stakes Sept. 20 beneath the Twin Spires. Heavily scratched down due to other commitments by the rest of the entrants, he faced only two other horses and had to settle for second behind Brotha Keny (Mo Town). “It turned into…basically a match race. The horse jumped out on the lead, and we just couldn't get to him.” Chunk of Gold dominated a Keeneland allowance | Coady Media With limited options from there, and hoping to stay with his classmates, the horse's team had to make some choices, and they found themselves in a Keeneland allowance Oct. 24. There was no catching the grey as he employed the same tactics at the Lexington venue which got him beat across town in Louisville, and he rolled home by 8 1/4 lengths. It was yet another notch to an already banner year for the West barn, but they weren't done just yet. Facing Magnitude again in the 151st running of the GII Clark Stakes Nov. 28, Chunk of Gold went right to the front and made them catch him. It took Magnitude and G1 Dubai World Cup hero Hit Show (Candy Ride {Arg}) every step of that Churchill stretch to fully get by, and even then the trio crossed the wire within three-quarters of a length of each other. Chunk of Gold lost second by a head to the latter. In 2025, 'Chunk' has been off the board only once in nine starts with five of those placings coming at the graded level. He's earned $868,893 and there are plans to race into his 4-year-old season. Not bad for the $2,500 underdog story of the year, and with all he's learned of his colt, West is dreaming big for next season. “[The Clark] is going to be a good test for him. There's going to be some nice older horses, and 3-year-olds, in there,” West said in a conversation before the race. “We're all excited for his 4-year-old campaign. Obviously, it would be sweet to get him to the Breeders' Cup [at Keeneland] knowing that he loves that track. “The [retirement] talk hasn't really come up. [Stephens] likes racing–that's what Terry likes. Obviously, Chunk of Gold will have to retire eventually, and when he does we'll cross that bridge, but hopefully, it's not for a while.” Despite his reticence to work too far into the future, West is quite comfortable waxing poetic in regard to what Chunk of Gold has meant to his team. “He's not just mine, but everybody in the barn's, pride and joy. Every time he goes out to work, they all go out and watch him. They revolve their schedule around Chunk just like I do, it seems. He's such a cool horse to be around, so it makes it even better. Kids come to the barn, they pet on him. They love him. That mentality makes it all the more enjoyable for everyone.” The post ‘They Revolve Their Schedules Around Him’: Chunk of Gold Gives West a Year to Remember appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article