Wandering Eyes

2020 Kentucky Derby (G1) ninth-place finisher Necker Island has been disqualified from a first-place finish in last June's Mighty Beau Stakes at Ellis Park after postrace tests taken from the horse revealed markers for acepromazine.View the full article

Dornoch (Good Magic) had not been running particularly well. He was a badly beaten fourth in the GI Blue Grass S. and followed that up with a 10th place showing in the GI Kentucky Derby. But trainer Danny Gargan never gave up on his colt, and was brimming with confidence in the days leading up to the GI Belmont S., contested this year at Saratoga. He was proven right as the bay colt won the final leg of the Triple Crown by a half-length at odds of 17-1. “We were unfortunate in the Derby and got stuck in behind a wall and just kept checking the whole way around,” Gargan said. “At one point we had two horses beat and that's not our running style. I just drew a line through it. (Jockey) Luis (Saez), got off of him that day and said, 'We're going to win the Belmont, Danny. I never got to let him run.' So if he was only beaten 15 lengths when he never got a chance to run and, if this time, he could break and get his position I knew he'd be really tough. And he loves this track. ” Gargan discussed his Belmont triumph on this week's TDN Writers' Room presented by Keeneland. He was the Green Group Guest of the Week. Gargan said the key this time was that they regrouped and decided to once again let the little brother of Mage (Good Magic) use his early speed, which can be a potent weapon. “He's not the world's fastest out of the gate,” Gargan said. “Then he broke as good as he did and Luis had so much horse. The first hundred yards, he just drug him right there and down the backside. I could see he had a lot of horse. If you watch it up close, he's just loaded with horse all the way around there. We were just blessed that he showed up and ran the race we always knew he had in him.” When it comes to comparing Dornoch to Mage, Gargan said they are two very different horses. “They're totally opposites,” said Gargan, who also won Sunday's GIII Matt Winn S. at Churchill with Society Man (Good Magic). “I'd say Mage is more like Good Magic. He's a smaller, stocky, chestnut like Society Man. A lot of the Good Magics look like that. They're not really big, robust bay horses. They're medium sized chestnuts, most of them. They all look alike, but Dornoch is the spitting image of his dam, Puca. In the head and the shoulder, he looks so much like the mare. It's unbelievable.” In our breeding spotlight section we took a look at the WinStar stallion Global Campaign. Elsewhere on the podcast, which is also sponsored by the Pennsylvania Horse Breeders' Association, 1/ST Racing, West Point Thoroughbreds, and XBTV.com, the team of Zoe Cadman, Randy Moss and Bill Finley dissected the Belmont Stakes and the other major races run over the weekend in Saratoga. As well as Thorpedo Anna (Fast Anna) ran in winning the GI Acorn S., Moss wondered aloud if trainer Kenny McPeek regretted not running her in the Derby. There was also a discussion of the final day of racing at Golden Gate Fields. Cadman was there and gave her observations on what was a bittersweet afternoon. And what would this podcast have been without telling the story of the drug regulations fiasco that went on all week in Louisiana? Fortunately, the Louisiana Racing Commission was backed into a corner by HISA and Churchill Downs and had to scrap rules that would have been, by far, the most lenient drug regulations in the sport. The post Trainer Danny Gargan Joins TDN Writers’ Room appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Monday, HISA announced four new members to its Horsemen's Advisory Group, replacing six outgoing members. The advisory group was formed in 2022 to provide feedback to HISA from the boots on the ground in the racing industry. It is comprised of 18 members, representing a variety of viewpoints across the industry. We sat down with outgoing member David Ingordo to talk about how the group operates and what the experience was like. SF: Can you explain how members are chosen for this group? Is there a committee who picks them? Do they volunteer? DI: There is a period during which you can send in a resume to fill a position on the advisory board on a volunteer basis, and there were a lot of resumes submitted. The resumes represent people from all over the spectrum-from a casual fan to multiple trainers of the level of Todd Pletcher. Once the resumes have been received, senior HISA management reviews those submissions and makes the selections on who ultimately serves on the Advisory Board. You won't be asked to be on the committee, you need to apply. If you are reading this and this is something that you are interested in, I encourage you to apply. SF: Once people submit their resumes, I assume there's a selection process on the part of HISA? And I see that six people are leaving, and four are coming on. I'm assuming that it was determined that 18 was the right number. DI: Correct, HISA senior management chooses from the pool of applicants. Quite honestly, it was a big board. There are people on it who are listeners and there are people who are doers. I think it just got to be a little bit cumbersome with the numbers. My understanding was that the idea was to tighten it up so as to not have too many cooks in the kitchen. SF: Tell me what your experience was like being on the board. What would be a typical situation that arose and how did it operate? Do you have a vote on policy with HISA or HIWU? DI: First, we don't have a vote with either the safety committee or the ADMC. We are a collection of participants in the industry and advocates for horses and racing. We had regularly scheduled calls, usually monthly, and Lisa (Lazarus) would set an agenda. HISA and HIWU would participate, and we would give feedback. That was one scenario. The other scenario is that we address issues when there are, I'll call them industry emergencies. Louisiana being one of them recently. Lisa is a very open-minded person always seeking to understand industry issues, and she would ask questions about these issues to make informed policy recommendations. SF: Can you give me an example of one issue that was resolved or changed because of input from the committee? DI: There were several. One big change was delaying any provisional suspension of a trainer until a B sample came back in the case of a banned substance. In the beginning, you got a bad test for a banned substance, and you were right away provisionally suspended. Now that's been stopped until the B sample comes back. I thought that was a good change. Recently, we have been pushing for changes to substances like Metformin. It is important to understand that HISA and HIWU are two separate entities. Lisa will take our suggestions and go to work with HIWU. For example, there are now new rules on the treatment for human drugs of abuse like meth and cocaine. The Horsemen's Advisory Group recommendations have helped to reduce the sanctions that a trainer could receive. These are just a few changes that came from the HAG. There are more than that, but it gives you an idea that this is not a group just for show. SF: If one of the members saw something that you thought was wrong, would they call for a meeting or ask for an emergency meeting? DI: Definitely. If we saw something that we didn't like, we were able to bring it up. The very active members of the committee are advocating daily for change. I think it's important to know that people really work on this advisory group. A number of us are spending two to three to four hours a day working on issues that come up, and they come up daily. Anyone on the advisory board could bring something to Lisa and I found her to be very responsive. That was my experience and I believe others there felt that way as well. Trust me, there are plenty of us that volunteered our opinions outside of the meetings. There are several of us that are vocal. Quite frankly, I'm surprised they allowed me to be on as long as I was! But kidding aside, this is not a group made up of yes men and women. It's made up of horse people who have strong opinions and personalities, who are educated and experienced that are willing to speak up. SF: You said people need to understand the differences between HISA and HIWU. Explain the difference to me in simple terms. DI: HISA is a private, non-governmental agency formed in response to the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act. They run the racing safety program and the Anti-Doping and Medication Control Program. HIWU is a division of Drug Free Sport International, a private company. It is not a part of HISA, but an independent agency that has been contracted to enforce HISA's ADMC rules. I think people also have to understand that Lisa Lazarus did not make these rules. She came in and inherited them as they were written up before she came into HISA. As a group, we had a lot of contentious conversations. Some of these rules were maybe good in theory and not as good in practice, and Lisa's very quick to help us fix those through the right channels. She can't snap her fingers magically and make something change. But I think what I've been most proud of, is the speed at which some of these issues are able to be changed, which in my lifetime never happened before, and that is a direct result of Lisa and her team at HISA. SF: Was this advisory committee in place from day one? DI: Lisa developed the advisory committee, and it was forward looking on her part. I am presuming if they were creating HISA today, had they had asked some of these questions to a Horsemen's Advisory Group that we're dealing with now, we might have been able to avoid some of what we are working through today. SF: What else has come out of being on the advisory committee? DI: A lot of us on this advisory committee have become de facto ombudsman to trainers and owners when they encounter a problem. We all signed an NDA. So if someone calls me for help or advice, I can speak to them pretty frankly and clearly, and I have my conversation with that person on a confidential level. The job is to help people and solve problems. I think that's important to really focus on. Anybody in the industry who has questions, problems or concerns, call someone you feel comfortable talking to in this group. SF: What are some of the things you've learned about the process of adjudicating a positive test? DI: On the legal side of this, what I've learned is that the old way of approaching a problem with all the fire and brimstone that attorneys have historically chosen to do is really not the right way to advocate for yourself or your clients any more. I've dealt directly with the attorneys for HISA and HIWU over medication violations for friends and clients. I can tell you they're not out to get you. It's just not that way. I'm not a lawyer, but I have learned through experience, that attorneys should take another look at the theatrics that might have worked in the past and realize there is a lot more understanding there if you sit down and talk to HISA and HIWU. This isn't Darth Vader and the Galactic Empire. These are good, logical people that are looking to help you within the rules, but you've got to help yourself, too. SF: Do you think more people in the industry are starting to feel that way? DI: I spoke to somebody here at Keeneland Tuesday morning who said they were beginning to warm up to it. Let's face it: we haven't had any real, meaningful change in this area of racing in our lifetime. I'm 48. I went to work when I was 14. We've never had a governing body like this. We have a real industry, we have a real sport. This is the best opportunity we have had to do something uniformly nationwide as a sport. SF: Would you recommend to people they serve on this committee? DI: My informed opinion is that HISA is here to stay and it is one of the most important organizations in racing today. We need to make HISA work and serving on this committee gives those of us who love the sport a chance to help HISA be the best overseer it can be. You're going to get out of it what you put into it and what you put into it can help shape our sport for the future. For me, I treated this like this is my civic duty to the industry. The game has been great to me. From my shoes to my haircut, it's paid for everything my entire life. From my family, my parents, to now with myself and (wife) Cherie (DeVaux), and I love this sport. We are passionate about racing. This isn't a resume builder; this is to try to support the industry and change the policies that we don't feel are correct and do something substantial for the sport of horseracing. The post Q and A With David Ingordo on the HISA Horsemen’s Advisory Group appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Saratoga Race Course, often referred to as the “Graveyard of Favorites,” has always held a special place in the hearts of racing enthusiasts. This historic venue, which has witnessed countless moments of glory and heartbreak, added another illustrious chapter to its storied legacy with the hosting of the 2024 GI Belmont S. As someone who has been attending races at Saratoga since 1962 and has had the privilege of witnessing numerous Triple Crown events, Breeders' Cup races, and other remarkable moments in horse racing history, I can unequivocally say that the atmosphere during this year's Belmont S. was unparalleled. The decision to move the Belmont S. to Saratoga for 2024, 2025, and perhaps 2026, necessitated by the renovation of Belmont Park, was initially met with both excitement and skepticism. There were those that thought few people would take the trip. Au contraire, the outcome exceeded all expectations, transforming a logistical challenge into a resounding success. Wow! Over 120,000 fans flocked to the Spa over four days, setting a record for attendance and generating an all-sources handle of $125,748,941–a testament to the enduring allure of horse racing and the impeccable planning by the New York Racing Association (NYRA). Kudos to Marc Holliday, David O'Rourke and the outstanding staff of NYRA. The racing community and the people of Saratoga salute you. From the moment the gates opened, there was a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. The crowd's enthusiasm was infectious, creating an atmosphere that was both joyful and celebratory. In all my years at Saratoga, I've never seen such camaraderie and happiness of the people attending. It was a scene that evoked what the artist Allan Kaprow famously termed “a happening,” an ephemeral experience that cannot be replicated, it simply happens. The vibrant energy, the cheers of the spectators, and the collective thrill of witnessing history in the making made for an unforgettable experience. It was clear that the sport of kings had found a new jewel in its crown. One of the most remarkable aspects of this year's Belmont S. was the perfect harmony between tradition and innovation. Saratoga, with its 154 years of rich history, provided the ideal backdrop for this prestigious event. The track was in impeccable condition, ensuring fast and fair races, and the newly showcased facilities offered modern amenities while preserving the historic charm that makes Saratoga so unique. As my dear friend Chris Meigher, CEO of Meigher Communications, aptly noted, “It was near-perfectly staged and meticulously managed, and NYRA deserves to be beaming as their conviction and diligence paid off beyond all expectations!” Kudos are also in order to the City of Saratoga Springs and Mayor John Safford for being amazing hosts and putting on an outstanding fan festival. With some estimating a $50-$100 million economic impact, the event was a boon for the local economy as the restaurants, hotels, and all the venues rolled out their best. The entire city embraced the event with open arms, showcasing the true spirit of hospitality and making every attendee feel welcome. As a longtime advocate for Thoroughbred racing, I was particularly pleased to see the level of engagement and enthusiasm from the fans. Horse racing has faced its share of challenges in recent years, but the 2024 Belmont Stakes at Saratoga demonstrated the sport's enduring appeal. The fans, both old and new, were deeply invested in the races, cheering passionately for their favorites and celebrating each moment of triumph. This event was a powerful reminder of why we love this sport–the thrill of the race, the beauty of the horses, and the shared joy of the crowd. Jayson Werth hugs Luis Saez | Sarah Andrew The success of the Belmont S. was also a testament to the importance of leadership and vision in the racing industry. Congratulations to the connections of Dornoch (Good Magic)–owned by former MLB star and World Series champion Jayson Werth and West Paces Racing, trained by Danny Gargan, and ridden by Luis Saez–for their remarkable victory with a 17-1 longshot. Werth captured the essence of the sport, urging Dornoch to victory in the stretch run and literally jumping for joy at the finish. Their win added a captivating storyline to the event, highlighting the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of horse racing at its best. Asked about what winning the Belmont means, Werth put it best when he said, “I would put it right up there with winning at the biggest stage. Horse racing is the most underrated sport in the world, bar none. It's the biggest game; you've got the Derby, the Preakness, the Belmont. We just won the Belmont. This is as good as it gets in horse racing, this is as good as it gets in sports.” Looking ahead, the success of the 2024 Belmont S. at Saratoga sets a high bar for future events. It reaffirms Saratoga's status as one of the premier racing venues in the world and showcases the potential for innovative approaches in the sport. It is clear that the new Belmont and Saratoga are the epicenter of a bright future of racing in New York and our nation. As we prepare for the 2025 Belmont S. and the upcoming summer meet, I am filled with optimism and excitement for what lies ahead. In conclusion, the 2024 Belmont S. at Saratoga was more than just a race; it was a celebration of horse racing's rich heritage and a glimpse into its promising future. It was a momentous occasion–by all means–that brought together the best of tradition and modernity, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who attended. I am immensely proud to have been a part of this historic event and look forward to many more memorable moments at the Spa. Here's to the continued success of Saratoga, the new Belmont, and the enduring legacy of horse racing. Cheers to all! Earle Mack is NYRA's longest-serving board member. The post Letter to the Editor: A Happening In Saratoga: “As Good As It Gets in Sports” appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

As California attempts to navigate a world without Golden Gate Fields, the strength of the California-bred program will play a crucial role in racing's survival.View the full article

Beginning Saturday, July 20, FOX Sports and the New York Racing Association, Inc., will highlight six consecutive weeks of racing upstate with FOX Saratoga Saturday, the network said in a Wednesday release. The broadcast schedule concludes with the 155th GI Travers S. on Saturday, Aug. 24. 2024 Fox Saratoga Saturday Schedule: (All Times ET) July 20: GI CCA Oaks, 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. July 27: GII Jim Dandy S., 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Aug. 3: GI Whitney S., 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Aug. 10: GI Fourstardave H., 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Aug. 17: GI Alabama S., 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Aug. 24: GI Travers S., 3:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. The post FOX Saratoga Saturday Returns This Summer appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Michael Guerin Coastal Babe may loosely be on trial for a Queensland campaign when she resumes at Alexandra Park tonight but that doesn’t mean she has to win. The Group 1 winner races for the first time since finishing fourth in All You Need Is Me’s Northern Oaks on March 22, after which she was found to be off colour. Trainer Steven Reid gave her a spell which went a little longer than expected as he see-sawed on whether to aim Coastal Babe at the Queensland winter carnival. “When she first went for a spell I thought we’d get her back ready for Queensland and then when I found out there was only one flight going there around when we wanted to travel I wavered on the idea,” Reid explains. “The only direct flight was on June 8 so that is gone so if we want to campaign her there she will have to go to Sydney and then truck up to Brisbane. “So that makes it more difficult but we haven’t totally ruled it out because there really isn’t anything here for her. “So we will see how she goes this week and then decide what to do next.” So does that mean winning winning Race 7, the IRT. Your Horse.Our Passion Mobile Pace tonight against mainly older pacers over the tricky mobile mile. “Not really. She is drawn wide and could go back at the start and if she does and run on well she could finish fourth and still earn herself a trip there. “So we will know a lot more after the race.” Coastal Babe would need to be close to her peak to win with in-form pacers Twista, Busload Of Faith, Artisan and Skipper drawn inside her, plenty of them with gate speed, she faces a massive jobn trying to round them up. It is a typical Alexandra Park 1609m race for this grade: if the leader and trailer get an easy time they usually win, but one horse putting on early or mid-race pressure would change the whole dynamic. Reid also has Shake A Leg (R4, No.7) drawn wide in his race, the TAB Golden Gait – Enter Your Horse to Earn Points Mobile Pace, but expects the three-year-old to race well. “He was actually underdone last start when he hadn’t race for over two months. “I was going to trial him but the maidens are pretty weak up here at the moment so I decided to race him instead and he went well. “I am sure he will be a big improver this week and while he has a bad draw I think he will go close with any luck.” Speedy three-year-old The Moonstone is an interesting addition to the Border Fencing Services Fillies and Mares Mobile Trot and could take catching albeit giving away plenty of rating points to the likes of Monarch Hill, Kiss And Run and Kimkar Dash. View the full article

The Geelong Racing Club (GRC) has just announced a sponsorship deal, with one of Australia’s leading bookmakers, Ladbrokes which is set to bring a boost to the club’s flagship races. Starting this August, Ladbrokes will be prominently featured throughout the club, with investments planned for facilities. Luke Rayner, CEO of GRC, expressed his excitement about the partnership: “Our key feature days, The Ladbrokes Geelong Cup and Ladbrokes Coastal Classic on Super Saturday, will undoubtedly reach new heights under this partnership.” Rayner also recognised the club’s old partner while highlighting the importance of this new alliance. “Firstly, I would like to recognise the commitment and contribution of our current partner, bet365,” Rayner said. “This was not a decision that was made lightly, and we ran a robust process to ensure the best possible fit for the club moving forward. Ultimately, we want to be a progressive club, and we feel the partnership with Ladbrokes puts us in a strong position to deliver upon this into the future.” This partnership is anticipated to raise the profile of both the Geelong Cup and Coastal Classic races, drawing increased participation and enriching the racing experience for enthusiasts and punters. Ladbrokes is the sister company to Neds, which is known for being one of the most competitive bookmakers in horse racing. The collaboration is anticipated to bring in income, for the Geelong Racing Club. Horse racing news View the full article

Dual Group 1 winner Zoustar had a small amount of his shares sold for $1.3 million in an auction by Inglis Digital on Wednesday. Bangaloe Stud snagged the 1.6% stake after a bidding war with the share originally offered by Qatar Bloodstock. Zoustar, a stallion with a $275,000 stud fee, mated with 155 mares in 2023, solidifying his status as one of the most sought-after stallions in the breeding industry. The Inglis Digital advertisement highlighted why breeders and investors would be keen to invest in this stallion through auction for the first time. This sale marks a milestone in recognising Zoustar’s value, with horses like Sunlight, Zougotcha, and Zoutori branching from the 13-year-old stallion. Horse racing news View the full article

A federal court judgment totaling more than $486,000 in a labor law case filed against Hall of Fame trainer Steve Asmussen remains under appeal.View the full article

The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association will hold the 39th annual TOBA National Awards Dinner on Saturday, Sept. 7 at Fasig-Tipton in Lexington, Ky, the organization said in a release Wednesday. The National Awards Dinner honors owners and breeders from 21 states and Canada. Also recognized are the National Owner of the Year, National Breeder of the Year and a number of other honors will be handed out. “We are thrilled to showcase the TOBA National Awards Dinner at Fasig-Tipton again this year,” said Dan Metzger, president of TOBA. “Thoroughbred owners and breeders are the lifeblood of our sport, and it is our privilege to recognize their outstanding achievements from 2023. We are very appreciative of the support from Boyd Browning, Fasig-Tipton and all of our sponsors in making this evening possible.” Online tickets for the National Awards Dinner will go on sale in July. For sponsorship opportunities please call Barkley N. Porter at (859) 276-6793, or email at barkley@toba.org. The post TOBA To Host National Awards Dinner At Fasig-Tipton Sept. 7 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Is there any stallion out there who is better represented in the juvenile division than Mehmas (Ire)? He seems to be banging in a winner every other day in Britain and Ireland but it's his statistics with two-year-olds that are really off the charts. This year alone, with the season still in its infancy, Mehmas has sired 17 individual two-year-old winners in Europe and enjoyed 19 successes overall. For context, fellow Tally-Ho Stud resident Kodiac (GB) is on 12 individual juvenile winners while No Nay Never has eight, Soldier's Call (GB) seven and first-season sire Sergei Prokofiev, who many have been showering with praise, is on that same number. So Mehmas is off to a flyer. But is anyone surprised? This year's crop of juveniles were covered at a fee of €25,000, which was the July and Richmond Stakes winner's most expensive book of mares at the time. Not only was the quality up for that covering in 2021, but so, too, were the numbers. Following a record-breaking first crop, where he recorded 56 individual winners, breeders flocked to Mehmas, who covered 292 mares in 2021. That number was up from 118 on a €7,500 fee in 2020. From that first crop, Minzaal (Ire) went on to score at the highest level when landing the Sprint Cup at Haydock, as did Supremacy (Ire), who won the Middle Park. Both of those horses are now standing at stud in Ireland for €15,000 and €10,000 respectively. Given what he has achieved to date, producing stallion sons and 22 horses rated in excess of 100 from lesser books, one can only imagine that things are set to get even better for Mehmas. And who knows, next week could be the beginning of that next chapter at Royal Ascot where he is likely to have a number of big chances. Aesterius (Ire) could well be the most exciting of the juvenile runners. Bought by Blandford Bloodstock's Richard Brown for £380,000 at the Goffs UK Breeze-Up Sale from Willie Browne of Mocklershill, the colt made a impressive start to his career at Bath and has the option of the Norfolk or Windsor Castle. The Archie Watson-trained runner is the most expensive progeny of Mehmas ever sold at the breeze-up sales but Perfect Part (Ire) did her bit to illustrate what a punch her sire packs. Offered at the same sale by Church Farm and Horse Park Stud, Perfect Part was sold for just £10,000 after putting in a solid breeze without doing anything fancy. Perhaps it was that inauspicious price tag that allowed her to be sent off at odds of 125-1 for the Hilary Needler S. on debut at Beverley, but there was nothing ordinary about how she slalomed through the field to win going away at the line for trainer Brian Ellison. When you add The Man (Ire), an impressive debut winner for trainer Richard Spencer and owner Phil Cunningham, Kempton scorer Tales Of The Heart (Ire), Leicester winner Blinky (Ire) and then the Windsor Castle-bound Sir Yoshi (Ire), it becomes evident that few stallions will be better-represented in the juvenile division at the royal meeting. And that's not to mention those who haven't got off the mark as of yet. It's understood that those closest to California Dreamer (GB), last seen finishing an honourable third to Fairy Godmother (Ire) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}) in a Group 3 contest at Naas, are confident that you will see a big performance from the Adrian Murray-trained filly at Ascot. With so much quality to look forward to this season, it might seem odd that Tally-Ho Stud decided to drop the covering fee for Mehmas this year to €50,000, down from €60,000 last year. However, this was in line with a number of other studs trimming their stallion fees in response to a tougher year for many breeders at the yearling sales. Stiff competition from Havana Grey (GB) and others is also understood to have been behind the idea at the time. However, if the O'Callaghan family at Tally-Ho Stud felt they had to sit on their hands somewhat until the 2021 crop came through the ranks, better can be expected from this year and beyond given that Mehmas has stood for €50,000, €60,000 and now €50,000 again since 2022. Indeed, plenty of shrewd breeders clearly backed Mehmas to make a splash this season, with one person close to the camp revealing that the stallion already has 170 mares in foal. Some will argue that, given the numbers that Mehmas has running for him, he should be achieving everything that he is. But nothing should be taken away from what Mehmas has recorded to date and is on track to achieve this season. Royal Ascot promises to be a big week for him. The post Winning Machine: Big Week Could Be In Store For Mehmas At Royal Ascot appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Juddmonte's hitherto unraced Zilfee (GB) (Sea The Stars {Ire}–Concentric {GB}, by Sadler's Wells), who is a half-sister to the operation's icon Enable (GB) (Nathaniel {Ire}), made a winning start to her career with a gutsy effort going one yard shy of 11 furlongs in Tuesday's Unibet/EBF Maiden Fillies' S. at Kempton. 2nd-Kempton, £7,000, Mdn, 6-12, 3yo/up, f/m, 10f 219y (AWT), 2:19.59, st/sl. ZILFEE (GB) (f, 3, Sea The Stars {Ire}–Concentric {GB} {SW & GSP-Fr, $117,776}, by Sadler's Wells) recovered from an early stumble to race fourth passing the judge first time and improved one spot turning onto the backstraight in this debut. Shaken up to reduce arrears off the home turn, the 7-1 chance was ridden to gain a narrow edge approaching the final furlong and kept on in resolute fashion to deny Incensed (GB) (Ulysses {Ire}) by a short-head after a to-and-fro tussle. Zilfee is the 11th of 14 foals and eighth scorer from as many runners produced by stakes-winning G3 Prix de Flore runner-up Concentric (GB) (Sadler's Wells). The March-foaled homebred bay is a full-sister to Listed Steventon S. runner-up Derab (GB) and a half-sister to multiple Group 1-winning dual G1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe heroine Enable (GB) (Nathaniel {Ire}), G2 Prix de Pomone and G3 Prix Allez France third Contribution (GB) (Champs Elysees {GB}) and G3 Musidora S. second Entitle (GB) (Dansili {GB}). Contribution is the dam of G3 Prix Penelope victrix Agave (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}). Zilfee is also kin to the unraced 2-year-old colt Concert Tour (GB) (Sea The Stars {Ire}) and a yearling colt and weanling filly by Dubawi (Ire). Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, $4,816. O-Juddmonte; B-Juddmonte Farms Ltd (GB); T-John & Thady Gosden. Oh, hello there … Sea The Stars filly – a half-sister to Enable – shows a touch of class and a serious will to win on debut in the @unibet/@BritishEBF fillies' maiden @kemptonparkrace @KShoemark | @JuddmonteFarms pic.twitter.com/7N5rcqXWzs — Racing TV (@RacingTV) June 12, 2024 The post Half-Sister to Enable Displays Grit in Kempton Debut Win appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

For France, there's a Classic weekend to contend with before Royal Ascot commences but next week's action in England could well include the strongest French challenge ever assembled for the royal meeting. Next Friday's G1 Coronation S. is already being hotly anticipated for its potential clash of the English, Irish and French 1,000 Guineas winners Elmalka (GB), Fallen Angel (GB) and Rouhiya (Fr), but before that the G1 St James's Palace S. could provide an equally enthralling meeting of some of the best three-year-olds in Europe. Notable Speech (GB) and Rosallion (Ire) look set to renew their 2,000 Guineas rivalry, while Poule d'Essai des Poulains winner Metropolitan (Fr) will join the line-up. France will also be represented by the progressive Darlinghurst (Ire) (Dark Angel {Ire}), who is one of three potential runners for Marseille-based trainer Jerome Reynier. The Yeomanstown Stud-bred colt is unbeaten in his last four starts, including the G3 Prix de Guiche, in which he beat subsequent G1 Prix du Jockey Club runner-up First Look (Ire) (Lope De Vega {Ire}). “I'm really looking forward to seeing this race, it is going to be very interesting with all three of the Guineas winners. It will be interesting to see who is the number one three-year-old colt in Europe,” Reynier said. He and owner Jean-Etienne Dubois clearly have much confidence in Darlinghurst having recently retained him at €590,000 when offered for auction through an Arqana Online Sale. “Darlinghurst has beaten First Look who was runner-up in the French Derby, his form is very good and we're very happy with the horse. He is very easy to deal with and I know he will travel well and is in good shape,” he continued. “His main quality is his turn of foot and if he can follow a horse with his high cruising speed and Christophe [Soumillon] can show him a gap or bring him on the outside, then he can use his turn of foot in the closing stages and he will be finishing really well.” Reynier will also be returning to Ascot with last year's G1 Queen Elizabeth II S. runner-up Facteur Cheval (Ire) (Ribchester {Ire}), who will again tackle the straight mile in Tuesday's G1 Queen Anne S. The Team Valor-owned five-year-old was last seen on Dubai World Cup night, when he won the G1 Dubai Turf in the hands of Maxime Guyon. “He came back from the Dubai Turf in really good shape and I was really happy with him,” the trainer reported. “The form from Dubai is amazing. The second Namur ran a cracker when second in the Yasuda Kinen and the Godolphin horse who finished fourth [Measured Time] won a Grade I in America at the weekend. Even the horse who finished eighth [Calif] won the La Coupe in ParisLongchamp and it was a very strong race.” He added of Facteur Cheval, “Maybe we could see him over a mile and a quarter in the future, but right now we had the choice between the Prince of Wales's or the Queen Anne and we thought it would be good to stick to going one mile straight. You always need that little bit more stamina than just being a miler and I think it fits him well.” Completing Reynier's trio of contenders is the G2 Prix d'Harcourt winner Zarakem (Fr) (Zarak {Fr}), who is being aimed at the G1 Prince of Wales's S. He said, “He won five in a row last year as a three-year-old, including two Listed races, and his reappearance was really good in the Prix d'Harcourt in early April. We supplemented him for the Ganay but everything went wrong and he was too keen and he burnt too much petrol. Now, we will be riding him from the back [at Ascot] like we did in the Harcourt, waiting out the back for a place and you never know what can happen in this kind of race. If there is enough pace he will be able to come from behind.” Reynier, who has had a superb start to the season with 10 stakes winners already to his credit, is currently fifth in the French trainers' table. He added, “A first win in Britain during Royal Ascot would be unreal, so I just hope the horses travel safe ahead of D Day. “Ascot is something I have been watching on TV for many years, I was lucky enough to run Royal Julius in the Prince of Wales's six years ago. “That was a good trip, I was driving the horse box myself and taking care of the horse myself and it was a great memory. This year I will only be racing on the Tuesday and Wednesday and we are staying Monday until Thursday so we will be able to enjoy it. “When we came over for the Sussex Stakes, we flew over, the horse ran and then we were dashing to catch our flight so I wasn't really able to enjoy it and the same with the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, I wasn't able to stay for the Champion Stakes as the flight was straight after the race. “This time we will make sure we will enjoy ourselves and I will be in the French tent in the car park having a good time.” The post Reynier Taking on Trio of Guineas Winners With Darlinghurst appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The top three finishers from the May 18 Vagrancy Stakes (G3) at Aqueduct Racetrack—Leave No Trace, Big Pond, and Hot Fudge—battle seven others in the $200,000 Bed o' Roses Stakes (G2) June 15 there.View the full article

Following Wednesday's confirmation stage, G1 2,000 Guineas winner Notable Speech (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}) is one of 11 possible runners in the G1 St James's Palace S. on the opening day of Royal Ascot on Tuesday, June 18. Unbeaten in four starts for Charlie Appleby, Notable Speech will be tasked with trying to confirm his Newmarket superiority over runner-up Rosallion (Ire) (Blue Point {Ire}), who also has Ascot firmly in his sights having resumed winning ways with a determined victory in the G1 Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh last time. Other notable entries include last year's G1 National S. winner Henry Longfellow (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire})–one of four colts still in contention for Aidan O'Brien–and the G1 Poule d'Essai des Poulains hero Metropolitan (Fr) (Zarak {Fr}), who was supplemented at a cost of £46,000 on Wednesday. The G1 Queen Anne S. which kicks off the meeting could feature up to 16 runners, including the 2023 runner-up Inspiral (GB) (Frankel {GB}), a six-time winner at the top level and a key ride for Kieran Shoemark in his first season as the retained rider at John and Thady Gosden's Clarehaven Stables. Speaking to Boylesports, Shoemark said of Inspiral, “She had a fantastic year last year, capping it off at the Breeders' Cup. She returned in the Lockinge and needed the run [when finishing fourth], maybe more so than we anticipated. She has been in great order since.” The G1 Lockinge S. was won by Inspiral's stable-mate Audience (GB) (Iffraaj {GB}) and he too remains in contention for the Queen Anne, along with Charyn (Ire) (Dark Angel {Ire}) and Big Rock (Fr) (Rock Of Gibraltar {Ire}), who finished second and sixth, respectively, in the Newbury feature. Last year's G1 Queen Elizabeth II S. winner Big Rock is set to be joined on the journey from France by Facteur Cheval (Ire) (Ribchester {Ire}), who was last seen gaining the first Group 1 success of his career in the Dubai Turf at Meydan in March. The other top-level race on the card is the King Charles III S. in which leading fancies Big Evs (Ire) (Blue Point {Ire}), Regional (GB) (Territories {Ire}), Asfoora (Aus) (Flying Artie {Aus}) and Kerdos (Ire) (Profitable {Ire}) have all stood their ground in a 19-strong entry. Added to the race at a cost of £46,000 was the George Scott-trained Seven Questions (Ire) (Kodiac {GB}), who won the G3 Palace House S. at Newmarket at the beginning of May before finishing third behind Kerdos in the G2 Temple S. at Haydock three weeks later. “Seven Questions seems to be improving all the time,” Scott said of the three-year-old. “We could not be more happy with him and we were delighted with his work this morning. He showed himself to be in great form. He is a horse who seems to be progressing with every start, so we have decided to push the button on the supplementary entry for the King Charles. “His form ties in quite nicely with a couple of the main players in the race, but at the same time, we've got to be realistic. You're not supplementing a 6-4 shot, he's probably going to be 14-1 or 16-1, but in an open race we feel it's worth taking a chance.” Elsewhere on the card, 31 two-year-olds have been entered in the G2 Coventry S. over six furlongs. They include four for Ballydoyle– headed by the G3 Marble Hill S. runner-up Camille Pissarro (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB})–and Cowardofthecounty (Ire) (Kodi Bear {Ire}), trained by Aidan O'Brien's son Joseph and an impressive winner on his debut at the Curragh. “Cowardofthecounty has had a good preparation since his debut,” said the trainer. “The plan has always been to come here since then. He made a really good debut and the form of the race has worked out well.” The post Notable Speech And Inspiral Among Star Entries For Day One Of Royal Ascot appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Space Legend the Latest Addition to Wathnan Racing Team Wathnan Racing's exciting team of horses for Royal Ascot has been bolstered further by the acquisition of the smart three-year-old prospect Space Legend (Ire) (Sea The Stars {Ire}) from Hong Kong-based owner Bon Ho. Blandford Bloodstock's Richard Brown, who has been charged with assembling some enticing prospects for the Emir of Qatar's burgeoning racing operation, confirmed the purchase on Wednesday. He said, “Space Legend is a lovely, progressive type, typical of the best by his sire. We're really looking forward to seeing how he develops in the months and seasons ahead.” The colt, who was the facile winner of a Leicester maiden in April before being narrowly touched off when second in the Listed Cocked Hat S. at Goodwood on May 25, is being aimed at the G2 King Edward VII S. by his trainer William Haggas. Bred by the Tsui family's Sunderland Holdings, Space Legend was bought as a yearling for Bon Ho for 150,000gns at Book 1 of the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale by Mark McStay of Avenue Bloodstock. The post Space Legend the Latest Addition to Wathnan Racing Team appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority announced June 12 the release of its 2024 First Quarter Metrics Report that saw a 38% decrease in racing-related fatalities compared with the first quarter of 2023.View the full article

As California attempts to navigate a world without Golden Gate Fields, the strength of the California-bred program will play a crucial role in racing's survival.View the full article

Jockey Luis Saez returns to the Churchill Downs riding colony June 12 following his historic victory aboard Dornoch in Saturday's Belmont Stakes (G1) at Saratoga Race Course, his second victory in the past four runnings of the race.View the full article

Former champion jockey Oisin Murphy will ride G1 QIPCO 1000 Guineas runner-up Ramatuelle (Justify) in the G1 Coronation S. at Royal Ascot on June 21. Murphy replaces Aurelien Lemaitre. The filly, who earned a 'TDN Rising Star' badge on debut, was third to the re-opposing Elmalka (GB) (Kingman {GB}) and Porta Fortuna (Ire) (Caravaggio) at Newmarket. The G3 Prix du Bois and G2 Prix Robert Papin heroine was second to dual Group 1 winner Vandeek (GB) (Havana Grey {GB}) in the G1 Prix Morny at two. In her 3-year-old bow, she found only Romantic Style (Ire) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}) too good in the G3 Prix Imprudence at Deauville, missing by just a half-length in April. The Irishman said of the Christopher Head trainee, “I thought she ran very well in the Guineas and it looks to be one of the most competitive races of the week. “There are a lot of stars in there and there is a whole host of them who can win, but she was very good at two and has done nothing wrong this year. [Qatar Racing]'s Sheikh Fahad is part of her ownership along with the former NBA star Tony Parker and a few others.” Already successful aboard 11 Royal Ascot winners to date, Murphy will also be in action aboard Aussie raider and G1 King Charles III S. entrant Asfoora (Aus) (Flying Artie {Aus}) for Henry Dwyer, as well as Kitty Rose (GB) (Invincible Army {Ire}), who is bound for the Sandringham S. for Aussie co-trainers Mick Price and Michael Kent, Jr. Asfoora, a multiple group winner in Australia, was a good fourth in the G2 Temple S. at Haydock on May 25. “Asfoora would have needed her run at Haydock on tiring ground but felt very good when I rode her yesterday morning,” Murphy added. “I rode her just over four furlongs on the grass in Newmarket and she is fit and ready to go. Hopefully she can put up a bold show.” He said of the former Natalia Lupini trainee, “Kitty Rose was trained in Ireland and has been with her Australian connections only a short time. But she's a big, powerful filly who has good form. “She is going to carry a lot of weight in the Sandringham, but it often takes a group filly to win the race and she has already proven that she is that–she's a very good ride to pick up.” Murphy Reunites With Tamfana In Diane Prior to the start of Royal Ascot, Chantilly will host the G1 Prix de Diane Longines on Sunday, June 16, and Murphy will ride 1000 Guineas fourth Tamfana (Ger) (Soldier Hollow {GB}) for trainer David Menuisier. Notably unlucky in that Newmarket showpiece, the bay was third one race before the Guineas in the Prix Imprudence. “I thought that when we would take her over a longer trip she would be better and I thought we would use the Guineas as a stepping stone for the Prix de Diane, but at the same time I did say to the owners we were running at Newmarket to win–it was not just a prep race it was a proper target,” said Menuisier. “She was travelling alongside Ryan Moore on Ylang Ylang (GB) (Frankel {GB}) and when I saw Ryan struggling and our filly still travelling I thought if she gets the gap, she surely can't get beat. Sadly she didn't get the gap.” The Frenchman, who operates out of Sussex, added on the jockey switch, “Jamie [Spencer] did absolutely nothing wrong, I said it at the time and I say it again. “Oisin has always been number one and has come down a few times this year and last year to work the filly and I always made it clear to Jamie's agent whenever Oisin is available he would ride the horse. It is nothing to do with the ride in the Guineas. “I'm not sure what else he could do he does not have wings, he could not fly over the wall of horses in front of him. I think to the day I die I won't have any regrets–first of all about the jockey booking and secondly how he rode the race. We have to move on and Oisin Murphy rides and it has always been the plan.” The post Oisin Murphy Will Ride Ramatuelle In Coronation Stakes appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Henry Cecil Open Weekend committee announced on Wednesday that the 2024 event will support the newly-formed Newmarket Housing Trust as the main charity beneficiary. Racing Welfare, a long-standing charity partner, will continue to be supported by the Open Weekend which takes place this year on September 21-22. The event has adopted a revised format for 2024, with all Newmarket trainers now set to open their doors on a bi-annual basis, having been split into two groups. 24 yards will be open to the public this year, including John and Thady Gosden's Clarehaven Stables which had not previously opened during the weekend. The likes of Sir Mark Prescott, Simon and Ed Crisford, Michael Bell and Charlie Fellowes will also welcome visitors in 2024. Several other sites across the town will be open for the public to explore, including the National Stud, Injured Jockeys Fund Peter O'Sullevan House, British Racing School, Jockey Club Rooms, National Horseracing Museum, Tattersalls Bloodstock Auctioneers and Rossdales Equine Hospital. Charlie Fellowes, chairman of the Henry Cecil Open Weekend, said, “I am incredibly proud to chair the Henry Cecil Open Weekend and to see first-hand the contribution the event has made to Newmarket. As an industry we must showcase all the elements of our sport and the event is a unique opportunity to welcome new visitors and give them exclusive behind the scenes access. “My thanks must go to all the sponsors, partners, trainers and equine sites who support the event and a special thanks to both Juddmonte and the Niarchos family for their continued support [as sponsors], all without whom the event would not be possible.” Tickets are available to purchase from Monday, July 1. Tickets are £15 when purchased in advance and £20 on the day, while children aged under 16 go for free. Further information can be found here. The post New Format And Charity Partner Announced For The Henry Cecil Open Weekend appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Legendary handler lands three-timer at city circuit with consistent five-year-old successful in Class Two featureView the full article

Every week, the TDN posts a roundup of the relevant Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA) related rulings from around the country. Among this week's rulings, trainer Adolfo Macias has been suspended 18-months and fined $12,500 for the possession of levothyroxine, a banned substance under HISA. Levothyroxine is a synthetic thyroid hormone used to treat ailments like hypothyroidism. Due to its metabolic properties, levothyroxine is believed to aid recovery in performance horses and help weight loss. There is also a possible link between levothyroxine and equine sudden cardiac death. There is currently no detailed explanation of Macias's ruling on the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit (HIWU) website. His suspension began on Nov. 2, 2023. Chris Hartman has also been suspended 15-days and fined $1,000 after his trainee, Necker Island, tested positive for acepromazine after winning the Mighty Beau S. at Ellis Park nearly a year ago. Acepromazine is a sedative ubiquitously used across U.S. backstretches. His suspension began on June 6. NEW HISA/HIWU STEWARDS RULINGS The following rulings were reported on HISA's “rulings” portal and through the HIWU “pending” and “resolved” cases portals. Resolved ADMC Violations Date: 06/05/2024 Licensee: Chris Allen Hartman, trainer Penalty: 15-day period of Ineligibility for Covered Person, beginning on June 6, 2024; Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $1,000; imposition of 2 Penalty Points. Final decision by internal adjudication panel. Explainer: For the presence of Acepromazine–Controlled Medication (Class B)–in a sample taken from Necker Island who won the Mighty Beau S. at Ellis Park on 6/18/23. Date: 06/05/2024 Licensee: Eric Foster, trainer Penalty: Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $500; imposition of 1.5 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Cetirizine–Controlled Medication (Class C)–in a sample taken from In Color who was third at Churchill Downs on 5/2/23. Date: 06/06/2024 Licensee: Juan Carlos Perez, trainer Penalty: 7-day period of Ineligibility for Covered Person, beginning on June 7, 2024; Disqualification of Covered Horse's Race results, including forfeiture of all purses and other compensation, prizes, trophies, points, and rankings and repayment or surrender (as applicable); a fine of $1,000; imposition of 2 Penalty Points. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Caffeine–Controlled Medication (Class B)–in a sample taken from Ramblin Chrome who won at Mahoning Valley on 1/18/23. Date: 06/10/2024 Licensee: Adolfo Macias, trainer Penalty: 18-month period of Ineligibility for Covered Person, beginning on November 2, 2023; a fine of $12,500. Admission. Explainer: For the possession of Levothyroxine–a banned substance–from an event dated 9/20/23. There is currently no detailed explanation of the ruling on the HIWU website. Pending ADMC Violations 06/07/2024, Gabriel Hilardo Rivera, trainer: Provisional suspension for the possession of Pitcher Plant Extract, Buta-Fenil and Dexalan–banned substances–from an event dated 3/27/24. 06/10/2024, Hugo Rodriguez, trainer: Pending vets' list medication violation for the presence of Phenylbutazone–Controlled Medication (Class C)–in a sample taken from Code Runner, who finished fifth at Tampa Bay Downs on 5/14/24. 06/11/2024, Francisco Ramos, trainer: Provisional suspension for an out-of-competition medication violation for the presence of Clenbuterol–a banned substance–in a sample taken from Jim's River Runner on 5/8/24. Violations of Crop Rule One important note: HISA's whip use limit is restricted to six strikes during a race. Hawthorne Emmanuel Giles – violation date June 8; $250 fine and one-day suspension Emmanuel Giles – violation date June 8; $250 fine and one-day suspension Horseshoe Indianapolis Gregory Romero – violation date June 6; $250 fine and one-day suspension Santa Anita Jose Verenzuela – violation date June 8; $250 fine and one-day suspension, one strike over limit Diego Herrera – violation date June 9; $250 fine and one-day suspension, one strike over limit The TDN also publishes a roundup of key official rulings from the primary tracks within the four major racing jurisdictions of California, New York, Florida and Kentucky. Here's a primer on how each of these jurisdictions adjudicates different offenses, what they make public (or not) and where. New York Aqueduct Javier Castellano – violation date June 9; three-day suspension for careless riding (stayed on appeal) The post Stewards and Commissions Rulings, June 5-11 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Nurlan Bizakov's Sumbe bought the two-for-two listed winner Hot Darling (Ire) (Too Darn Hot {GB}) for a record 460,000gns during the Tattersalls Online Pop-Up Sale on Wednesday. The daughter of Boater (Ire) (Helmet {Aus}) won her debut at Chantilly in April before taking the Listed Prix des Reves d'Or at Vichy on May 15. She was consigned by trainer Amy Murphy and is from the same family as 2024 G1 Poule d'Essai des Poulains hero Metropolitan (Fr) (Zarak {Fr}). The bay carried an entry in Sunday's G3 Prix du Bois at Chantilly with the sale, but her new connections are opting for either the G2 Queen Mary S. or G3 Albany S. at Royal Ascot next week. Sumbe general manager Tony Fry said, “We are going to go to Royal Ascot with her, either for the Queen Mary or the Albany but most likely the Queen Mary. We now sponsor the [G1] Prix Morny and we would hope that she may get there eventually but, for now, we will take it one race at a time. She has an active pedigree, her sire Too Darn Hot is doing fantastically and looking to the future the plan would be for her to come back for our broodmare band. We have a selection of our own stallions that would suit her, and she would be a lovely cross for them. “Today was very easy. The boss [Nurlan Bizakov] is in Kazakhstan at the moment, so it was very easy for him to bid from there and he was keeping me up to date throughout. When it is the right horse, it is a very good job.” Bred by Rabbah Bloodstock, Ltd, Hot Darling cost 25,000gns during the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale Book 3 when purchased by Rodrigo Goncalves from Baroda Stud, agent. She raced for Daniel Macauliffe, Lemos de Souza and Anoj Don for her first two starts. Tattersalls Online sales executive Katherine Sheridan said, “We are thrilled with today's result for Hot Darling as the highest priced lot to have sold on the Tattersalls Online platform since its inception. The auction attracted worldwide attention and is a ringing endorsement of the platform and the opportunities it presents for those seeking to trade. “Our most sincere thanks extends to Amy Murphy Racing and the owners for entrusting us with the sale of this elite filly and to Mr. Bizakov of Sumbe for his support of the sale today. We look forward to following Hot Darling as she aims for the Royal Meeting next week and wish all connections the very best of luck for the future.” The post Hot Darling Snapped Up By Sumbe For Record 460K During Tattersalls Online Pop-Up Sale appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article