Wandering Eyes

The Todd Pletcher-trained trio of Fierceness (City of Light), Antiquarian (Preservationist) and Mindframe (Constitution) all visited the track Friday morning in preparation for upcoming starts in the GI Belmont S. held at Saratoga. 'TDN Rising Star' and Champion 2-year-old Male Fierceness marked his first work since finishing off the board as the favorite in the GI Kentucky Derby earlier this month. Working in company with stablemate Mindframe, the pair covered a half-mile in :50 flat over the Oklahoma training track, galloping out in 1:02 2/5, 1:14 3/5 and 1:28 2/5. “I thought it was a very good work from both horses,” said Pletcher. “They seemed to be doing it well in hand coming to the wire. We kind of let Mindframe do a little more in the gallop out than Fierceness–he had a work last week, and he's more lightly raced. I was very pleased with both horses. It seemed like Fierceness was moving really well and did it easily.” The GI Florida Derby winner got an extra week of rest off the Derby but Pletcher added that he was pleased with the colt's energy level at Saratoga. “His gallops have been good and a couple mornings ago, he put in a big buck in the middle of the turn. He's such a quiet horse, sometimes you're not 100 percent sure where you are with him because he's so laid back and cool all the time. He's such an easy horse to train.” According to Pletcher, Mindframe, who is undefeated in two starts thus far, is possible for the Belmont along with the Pegasus S. at Monmouth Park. “We haven't decided yet,” he said. “The Belmont is in play, the Pegasus is in play. We'll just survey how the race is shaping up and talk to the ownership and see what they want to do.” Champion 2-Year-Old FIERCENESS works a half-mile to the outside of MINDFRAME a little while ago over the Oklahoma. pic.twitter.com/6r2oaMksP9 — Mary Eddy (@singmysongbird) May 24, 2024 Meanwhile, GIII Peter Pan S. winner Antiquarian, working in company with GI Darley Alcibiades S. winner Candied (Candy Ride {Arg}), also went a half-mile in :48.65 at Belmont Park. “It was pretty even the whole way,” said Pletcher's New York-based assistant Amelia Green. “I got them in 12 [1/5], 24 [3/5], 48 [3/5], galloped out 1:01. It was a strong gallop out, 1:13 [1/5]. An eased down 1:26 [4/5]. Honestly, he did it very impressively on this track.” G1 Belmont Stakes contender ANTIQUARIAN works a half-mile with Irad Ortiz, Jr. aboard outside likely G1 Acorn-filly CANDIED on the Belmont dirt training track pic.twitter.com/KKD4LnO9DC — Christian (@c__abdo) May 24, 2024 A fourth Pletcher runner, Protective (Medaglia d'Oro), could also target the Belmont after running third in both the GII Wood Memorial S. and the Peter Pan. Protective breezed a half-mile Friday morning in :48.68 at Belmont. “He breezed very well and he's doing well,” said Pletcher. “We're not committed to the Belmont, but we're not ruling it out either. We will assess how he's doing and how the field is shaping up and make a decision on entry day.” Of his older horses, Pletcher noted that Whisper Hills Farm's 'TDN Rising Star' Charge It (Tapit) would be nominated to both the GII Suburban S. and the GI Hill 'N' Dale Metropolitan H., with preference to the Suburban while Kingsbarns (Uncle Mo) would target the GI Stephen Foster S. at Churchill Downs June 29. “We'll see how things shape up, but we're probably leaning towards the Suburban with Charge It,” said Pletcher. “Kingsbarns will probably wait for the Stephen Foster.” For trainer Danny Gargan, Dornoch (Good Magic) hit the track Friday for his first post-Derby work as he continues to prep for the Belmont. The full-brother to last year's Derby winner Mage went a half-mile in :48.48 over the Oklahoma track. “It was good,” said Gargan of the work. “I told them to go 49 and they went 48 and change. Three weeks after the Derby, I only want to work him twice. He did it pretty handily.” Here is the routine and work from DORNOCH, who trainer Danny Gargan caught going a half-mile in 48 3/5 inside of RAMBLIN' WRECK. pic.twitter.com/mIBnrldWKO — Mary Eddy (@singmysongbird) May 24, 2024 The post Pletcher Runners Busy On Friday Work Tab; Belmont Preps Continue appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The 2024 National HBPA Conference, set for July 23-26 at Iowa's Prairie Meadows, is designed to provide additional insight and clarity into horse racing's most important issues.View the full article

A juvenile colt by Justify is one of 134 Flat-bred 2-year-olds catalogued for the mixed Arqana Summer Sale on July 1-4. The mixed sale features the 2-year-old breezes on Monday, July 1 beginning at 1 p.m., while the Flat juveniles and 176 2- and 3-year-old stores will sell on Tuesday, July 2 at 10 a.m. Wednesday's session features 200 horses-in-training from 2 p.m., and the final session, on Thursday, July 4, includes 115 mares and filles, beginning at 11 a.m. Graduates of the sale have enjoyed success on the Flat with group winners Birthe (Ire) (Study Of Man {Ire}), Nadette (Fr) (Outstrip {GB}), and Engaliwe (Fr) (Galiway {GB}). In the National Hunt sphere, alumni include Grade 1 winners Fastorslow (Fr) (Saint Des Saints {Fr}) and Amy Du Kiff (Fr) (Kapgarde {Fr}). Some of this catalogue's notable lots are: lot 3, the aforementioned Justify colt out of a sister to multiple Group 1 winner Unique Bella (Tapit); a son of Sea The Stars (Ire) out of group winner K Club (Ire) (Kodiac {GB}); a filly by No Nay Never (lot 127) who is a half-sister to group winner Duhail (Ire) (Lope De Vega {Ire}); a colt by GI Breeders' Cup Classic and GI Gold Cup At Santa Anita S. winner Vino Rosso (Curlin) out of stakes winner Stormy Novel (Bernardini) (lot 134); a full-brother to Amy Du Kif (lot 152), Mellow Du Large (Fr) (Kapgarde {Fr}); a half-sister to G1 Grand Steeple Chase de Paris winner Gran Diose (Fr) (Planteur {Ire}) (lot 629) named L'Evidence (Fr) (Motivator {GB}) in foal to Nirvana Du Berlais (Fr); the listed winner Restiana (Fr) (Kendargent {Fr}) (lot 651), who was second in the G3 Prix Fille de l'Air and is in foal to Galiway (GB); and Garden Of The Gods (GB) (Kingman {GB}) (lot 638), a half-sister to group winners King Of Koji (Jpn) (Lord Kanaloa {Jpn}) and Harajuku (Jpn) (Deep Impact {Jpn}) in foal to Ten Sovereigns (Ire). The post Justify Colt One Of The Highlights Of Arqana Summer Sale Catalogue appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

With session topics from computer-assisted wagering to fixed odds to a status report on the Horseracing Integrity & Safety Act (HISA), the 2024 National HBPA Conference is set of July 23-26 at Prairie Meadows, the horsemen's group said in a Friday release. “A lot is changing in our industry at breakneck speed,” said Eric Hamelback, CEO of the National Horsemen's Benevolent & Protective Association. “The objective of the National HBPA Conference is to get straight talk from industry experts and to start dialogue where we can come together to begin implementing solutions that truly make horse racing better for our participants, including horseplayers, and safer for our equine and human athletes.” Attendees will be treated to an opening reception hosted by Thoroughbred owner Dennis Albaugh at his car museum in the Des Moines suburb of Ankeny. Thoroughbred Daily News's Dan Ross will moderate a panel with Pat Cummings and Jack Jeziorski discussing computer-assisted wagering. Click here for conference registration information and the agenda. The post National HBPA Conference Set For Prairie Meadows, July 23-26 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Ask prominent horse owner Michael Dubb what his favorite race that he has won in Saratoga is and you might get an odd answer. That's because it's a race that hasn't finished yet. But it's getting close. Here's a hint: it's not being run at the famous horse park on Union Avenue. This one is smack dab in the heart of the Spa City, right on Broadway. That's where his latest project, the Residences at the Adelphi Hotel, has been taking shape for the last three and a half years. The mammoth project, undertaken by Dubb and his partner Larry Roth, will be a sparkling addition to the historic Adelphi, one of the last structures standing that connects the Spa to its glorious past. Roth, also a horse owner, partnered with Dubb after he bought the Rip Van Dam, which was next door to the Adelphi. The two were then off and running and Saratoga is on the verge of giving a spectacular opportunity to new residents. “I have to give Larry all the credit in the world,” Dubb said. “He had the original Adelphi (was a partner) and he had the vision to acquire the property next door and do something better. He just didn't know what he wanted to do and he came to me. That was five years ago.” The $90 million development on the corner of Broadway and Washington Street will feature 79 luxury condominiums to go along with 33 new hotel rooms that are already operating. Besides being a solid horse owner, Dubb has had the Midas touch when it comes to putting projects like the Residences at the Adelphi together. He is the Chief Executive Officer of the Beechwood Organization, his highly successful Long Island contracting firm. When he tackled this job, Dubb said he did it because of his deep affection for Saratoga Springs, a city he fell in love with it when he first saw it as a teen in the early 1970s. “This really means I have created a bit of a legacy,” Dubb said. “That is all I could ask for. Being in the heart of the city and creating the crown jewel and knowing it will be around long after I will, and it will be part of the storied history of the Adelphi Hotel in Saratoga…it means the world to me.” Dubb first saw Saratoga when he was a long-haired 17-year-old in the early 1970s. He made the trip north from Long Island, driving a teal blue van, one he said he bought new for $2,950 with the money he saved up by cutting lawns. He had never heard of Saratoga and wasn't into horse racing. He made the journey because a friend and his friend's father were driving up, and, hey, he was 17. Dubb followed in his van and the group camped out and went to the track. Dubb was immediately hooked on the town and the thoroughbreds. “I couldn't wait to come back,” he said, and he did, the next summer. He slept in his van, remembers parking it in Congress Park on Aug. 9, 1974. “The side doors were open and I was out sitting on a chair listening to Richard Nixon resign,” he said. He became more and more interested in horses and as years went on, he became more and more of a player. He was the leading owner in New York seven times from 2010-2018. Dubb currently owns about 75 horses he said, most with partners. “My partners are my friends,” he said. “I always tell people that if I never met racing, I would have more money, but I would not have the friends I have. And I would rather have the friends than the money.” Dubb's main residence is still Long Island–he lives in Brookville, within the town of Oyster Bay in Nassau County on the North Shore. He has made weekly treks to Saratoga to check in on the progress of his baby. “I have a vision on what I am going to see when I come up,” Dubb said. “I always want more. I always want more progress.” Asked when he estimated the project will be finished, he smiled. “It will never be finished because I will always find something else I want to do,” he said. “This will never be done for as long as I'm around because I'll always want to make it better and bigger.” Amenities at the Adelphi include a game room | Adelphi photo He is proud to show off the two spacious penthouse suites on the sixth floor that have an upstairs and expansive outdoor patios. Tall windows allow plenty of sunshine to splash onto the high, white walls. The rest of the breakdown is 21 one-bedrooms, 20 two-bedrooms, 10 studios with den, nine two-bedrooms with den, five three-bedrooms with den, five studious, five one-bedrooms with dens and two three-bedrooms. Some are finished, while others are still under construction. Dubb makes sure his 150 workers on the job are as dedicated as he is. As you would expect, it will be a high cost to own. Prices range from the $900,000s to over $4 million for the swanky penthouses. “You are buying a lifestyle, not just a condominium,” Dubb said. “It's a small percentage of the population that can afford it, but the demand has been phenomenal. You are buying a club and all the amenities.” A state-of-the-art gym, an in-house spa, game room, meeting rooms, housekeeping services and hotel concierge are just some of the amenities. Residents will also have an underground heated parking garage at their disposal. And, if you don't want to drive to the track, there is a shuttle that will take you to the races and pick you up when they're done. The 33 hotel rooms Dubb and Roth added to the Adelphi gives the hotel a total of 65. Dubb said he wanted to give the Adelphi the same ritzy feel as the acclaimed Plaza Hotel in Manhattan, which also has private residences combined with the five-star hotel. He had owned a house in Saratoga for years but that will be sold because he will be a resident at the Adelphi. No chance he wasn't going to purchase one. “I love this project so much,” he said, “the first one I sold was to myself.” Dubb said that “almost” 50 percent of the condominiums have been sold. “People are buying these off or floor plans or walking through a building under construction,” Dubb said. “To be 50 percent sold before the building is completed very rarely happens.” He said the buyers have come from near and far. Some from Florida, others from California. “We know there is tremendous wealth in the horse industry,” Dubb said. “But there is also tremendous wealth in the Albany, Saratoga and Lake George region. Some of the people who buy these could be people who have three or four homes. I also think there will be plenty of people who will live here year-round.” Units range from 800 square feet to 2,800 square feet of interior living space. Dubb has made a living doing exactly what he is doing at the Adelphi. He said he currently has 15 projects Beechwood is currently developing, from the Carolinas to Upstate New York to Long Island. “I have built projects with 2,000 units, I have built projects with 700, 800 units,” he said. “This is the most important project to me because it's Saratoga. I get to make a difference in Saratoga. And that's important to me.” The post Dubb: `I Get to Make a Difference in Saratoga’ appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

With a 34 to 25 vote on Thursday, May 23, the House Appropriations Committee approved the Fiscal Year 2025 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, which will allocate up to $5 million in grants for equine therapy under the Veterans Affairs (VA) Adaptive Sports Program, the National Thoroughbred Racing Association said in a press release on Friday. The initiative, led by Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY) and the NTRA, will award grants by the VA to eligible organizations to plan, develop, manage and implement equine therapy programs for Veterans and Armed Forces members with disabilities. “Funding initiatives to help Thoroughbreds find a second career is a top priority for the NTRA, and to be able to do that while aiding Veterans is a big victory,” said NTRA President and CEO Tom Rooney. “This grant will fund equine therapy programs so our retired racehorses can benefit our nation's Veterans.” Click here to access the legislation. The post House Appropriations Funds $5 Million For Veteran’s Equine Therapy appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Donnchadh Doyle is the latest recipient of the Willie Stephenson Memorial Trophy, which commemorates the co-founder and first chairman of Doncaster Bloodstock Sales (DBS), now known as Goffs UK, the sales company announced on Friday. The award is presented annually by the Goffs UK board to the person they feel has made the biggest contribution to the success of the company during the year. Doyle is a point-to-point handler based in Wexford, and is a regular vendor at Goffs point-to-point sales. Several lots from his consignment have topped Goffs UK NH sales over the years, with his pointer Classic Getaway (Ire) (Getaway {Ger}) equaling the world record price for a pointer at £570,000 in 2020. “It's a pleasure to award Donnchadh with the Willie Stephenson Memorial Trophy, as he has been a long-time supporter of our PTP sales and an avid buyer at our Spring Store and Arkle Sales as well,” said Goffs Group chief executive and Goffs UK chairman Henry Beeby. “He has also made his mark on the track with graduates from the Monbeg Stables banner including the Grade 1 Cheltenham Festival winner and Goffs Aintree Sale graduate Topofthegame (Ire) (Flemensfirth). “We wish to congratulate Donnchadh on all he has achieved thus far, thank him for his ongoing support, and wish him all the very best for the coming season.” The post Donnchadh Doyle Awarded The Willie Stephenson Memorial Trophy By Goffs UK appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Led by its Executive Committee, the Horse Racing Women's Summit (HRWS) has added committees with new members focused on Event Logistics, Marketing & Communications, Operations, Membership and Sponsorship, the volunteer organization said in Friday press release. “I am in awe and honored to walk alongside the Executive Committee, the dedicated committee members, and all who generously share their time, experience, and talents as we build the HRWS community,” said Stephanie Hronis, Chairwoman of the HRWS. “The HRWS pillars guide all efforts to engage, elevate, and invest in the women who contribute significantly to the betterment of the sport, from the farms to the racetracks and beyond.” New committee members include: Events Logistics Ana Maron, Co-owner, Saints and Sinners, LLC Sara Gordon, Thoroughbred Daily News Marketing & Communications Hannah Bloom, Social Marketing Manager, MyRacehorse Kaitlin Christopherson, CEO, Grand Slam Social Sara Gordon, Social Media Manager, Thoroughbred Daily News Operations Audrey Dollase, Production Assistant, FanDuel TV; Social Media Manager for Bonne Chance Farm Membership Anne Litz, Field Marketing Specialist, Maryland Horse Industry Board Michele Ravencraft, Senior Vice President of Events, NTRA Meghan Rodgers, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs, NTRA Alison Zeitlin, attorney at Stites & Harbison PLLC Sponsorship Naomi Hurdle, Account Manager for Kick Collective USA, assisting with Light Up Racing Ashlyn Moore, Manager, Office of the President, 1/ST Courtney Reid, Senior Director of Racing and Industry Relations, Breeders' Cup Limited Alexa Zepp, Quality Assurance Analyst, Daily Racing Form Along with the new committee members, the HRWS has brought on Bella Hodge, a student at Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia, as an intern. “I am a proud member of the executive committee and love pulling in other extraordinary women from across the U.S. to support the HRWS movement on committees that fit their talents,” said Jordyn Egan, Membership & Operations Committee Chair for the HRWS. “This concept does not work without genuine support at all levels – from the committees to event attendees, HRWS Members, and sponsors. Our supporters make it possible.” The next HRWS event will be held Tuesday, July 23 at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in Saratoga Springs, New York. To purchase tickets, click here. To learn more about the HRWS committees and how you can get involved, click here. The post Horse Racing Women’s Summit Names New Committee Members appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

The Road, presented by Gainesway and Darby Dan FarmView the full article

Luxury brand Holland Cooper has been named the new sponsor for the 2024 G1 Coronation Cup at Epsom Downs Racecourse on Ladies Day, May 31, The Jockey Club announced on Friday. Part of the Betfred Derby Festival which features the G1 Betfred Oaks on Friday and the G1 Betfred Derby on Saturday, the 1 1/2-mile race, now known as the Holland Cooper Coronation Cup, was established in 1902 to celebrate the accession to the throne of King Edward VII. The British-based luxury brand has already sponsored the leading jockey and trainer awards at the Cheltenham Festival, and is now currently the Fashion Partner of the Home of Jump Racing. Cheltenham also is the home of the Holland Cooper flagship boutique. Tom Sammes, general manager of Epsom Downs Racecourse, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Holland Cooper on board as the sponsor of this year's Coronation Cup at the Betfred Derby Festival. Ladies Day celebrates the very best of British fashion and style, making this a very appropriate race sponsorship, as Holland Cooper make their first move into Flat racing support.” Jade Holland Cooper, founder and managing director of Holland Cooper, added, “The races are no longer just about horses, they are now also a celebration of timeless fashion, style and elegance. “Following our success as Fashion Partner of The Festival at Cheltenham Racecourse, it's an honour and privilege to be associated with Ladies Day at Epsom Downs and to extend our relationship with The Jockey Club in sponsoring the Coronation Cup, one of the most prestigious Group 1 races at the event.” The post Holland Cooper New Sponsor Of 2024 Coronation Cup appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Fourteen fillies will line up for Sunday's G1 Tattersalls Irish 1,000 Guineas at The Curragh, with Ballydoyle's Opera Singer (Justify) the key name among them. Joined by three others from the stable, the impressive G1 Prix Marcel Boussac heroine was forced to miss Newmarket due to a setback and has stall 13 to contend with under Ryan Moore. Joining her are the G1 Cheveley Park S. runner-up Pearls And Rubies (No Nay Never), the G3 Mutamakina S. runner-up Buttons (Ire) (Kingman {GB}) and G3 Salsabil S. third Everlasting (Ire) (Kingman {GB}), while Paddy Twomey is the other trainer with more than one runner in the G3 Ballylinch Stud Priory Belle S. scorer A Lilac Rolla (Ire) (Harry Angel {Ire}) and the Salsabil runner-up Purple Lily (Ire) (Calyx {GB}). Billy Lee is on the latter, who is drawn eight, while Colin Keane partners the unbeaten A Lilac Rolla from stall six. Al Shira'aa Farms' G1 Poule d'Essai des Pouliches third Vespertilio (Fr) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}) is next door to Purple Lily in five, representing the Willie McCreery stable with Declan McDonogh on board, while another notable is Clipper Logistics' Fallen Angel (GB) (Too Darn Hot {GB}), who beat Vespertilio in last year's G1 Moyglare Stud S. at this venue but needs to bounce back from a disappointing effort when eighth in the 1,000 Guineas. She has stall three, alongside The Aga Khan's unexposed Leopardstown maiden winner Azada (Ire) (Siyouni {Fr}) in two, while Juddmonte's Ralph Beckett-trained TDN Rising Star Skellet (Ire) (Kingman {GB}) makes up the British-trained challenge along with Fallen Angel. The field is completed by the Joseph Murphy-trained Alpheratz (Ire) (Phoenix Of Spain {Ire}), Bluedrum (Ire) (Blue Point {Ire}) from the in-form Jessica Harrington yard, the Ken Condon-trained maiden Queen Of Thunder (Ire) (Night Of Thunder {Ire}) and a Jim Bolger outsider in Finsceal Luas (Ire) (Camelot {GB}), whose dam Finsceal Beo (Ire) (Mr. Greeley) was successful in this in 2007. The post Opera Singer Heads Fourteen For Irish 1,000 Guineas appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Godolphin's globetrotting Rebel's Romance (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}) should jump a white-hot favourite when he lines up against seven locally based gallopers in the final Group 1 on the annual Hong Kong racing calendar, the Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup Sunday at Sha Tin Racecourse. The 6-year-old is seeking to become the first overseas raider to take out the 2400-metre contest and the near $8-million earner enters the race in the best form of his career. A two-time Group 1 winner in Germany and victorious in the GI Breeders' Cup Turf in America in 2022, Rebel's Romance endured a difficult season last year when little seemed go in his favour, but suggested at a return to his better form with a visually impressive win in the Listed Wild Flower S. at Kempton in December. He made virtually all in annexing the G3 H H The Amir Trophy in Qatar this past February and exits a victory over world-class competition in the G1 Dubai Sheema Classic at Meydan Mar. 30. “He's already a well-travelled horse but of course he's never been to Hong Kong before, so it will be a new experience for him,” jockey William Buick told South China Morning Post. “He's been super consistent. He's a 6-year-old now and dare I say it he's probably as good as ever.” More rain has fallen in Hong Kong this week and was forecast to continue through the weekend, and that could enhance the chances of two-time defending champion Russian Emperor (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}). The 7-year-old got just the better of local star Romantic Warrior (Ire) (Acclamation {GB}) in a soft-ground renewal of the Champions & Chater last year, but is winless in six starts this term, including a fifth to Rebel's Romance in defense of his title in Doha in February and a latest seventh behind the re-opposing La City Blanche (Arg) (Cityscape {GB}) and Five G Patch (Ire) (Camelot {GB}) in a Group 3 prep over course and distance May 5. “It's not going to inconvenience me or my horse. Let's hope it sticks around until the weekend,” said trainer Chief Stipelas Whyte referring to any precipitation. “He's been primed for this race. It's been well documented that this is the race that I have had in mind all year and he comes good this time of the year. If the rain sticks around it's going to enhance his chances but Rebel's Romance is a really good horse–the way he won in Dubai, he looks like a proper individual.” Another former Aidan O'Brien runner, Massive Sovereign (Ire) (No Nay Never), took a thrilling renewal of the BMW Hong Kong Derby in March, but was a low-odds flop in rain-affected conditions in the G1 FWD QE II Cup a month ago. “He's in very good form and hopefully the rain stays away for him,” trainer Dennis Yip told SCMP. “If the ground is rated good I think he will show everyone something. We are very happy with him. He's eating well and every day he is working perfectly.” The post Rebel’s Romance a Standout in Champions and Chater appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Mike Moroney is set to leave hospital seven weeks after being admitted with the popular trainer looking forward to getting back to business. In a short video message to his Ballymore stables staff and clients from Epworth Hospital on Friday, Moroney paid tribute to hospital staff and his own at Flemington and New Zealand as he packed his bags for home. “I’m fine and I will be going home today and things have progressed really well,” Moroney said. “Seven weeks is long enough in hospital though for me and I’ve really been back doing the horses again for the last three weeks and things are going great.” View the full article

Mike Moroney is set to leave hospital seven weeks after being admitted with the popular trainer looking forward to getting back to business. In a short video message to his Ballymore stables staff and clients from Epworth Hospital on Friday, Moroney paid tribute to hospital staff and his own at Flemington and New Zealand as he packed his bags for home. “I’m fine and I will be going home today and things have progressed really well,” Moroney said. “Seven weeks is long enough in hospital though for me and I’ve really been back doing the horses again for the last three weeks and things are going great.” View the full article

Warrnambool-based trainer Matthew Williams is banking on a drop in grade and a return to Sandown being a winning formula for Mi Rock Aly (NZ) (El Roca). A Sandown winner three starts back, Mi Rock Ali runs in the Sportsbet Photo Finish Refund Handicap (2400m) on Saturday coming off the back of a last start eighth in the Listed Warrnambool Cup (2350m) on May 2. After starting her career with Paul Preusker, a tendon injury saw the mare transferred to Williams before Mi Rock Ali reinjured the tendon requiring another year-long stint on the sidelines. Williams said Mi Rock Ali has had ‘her issues’ but was racing well and he had forgiven the mare for her last start at Warrnambool where she wasn’t happy in the ground. “I’m not sure she was entirely at home on the ground at Warrnambool last time and she probably had to do a little bit too much work from the gate to come across,” Williams said. “There was a fair amount of pressure going out of the straight and this time she is drawn well, back to benchmark 70 grade and if you look at that Bendigo race, that should see her in the firing line somewhere.” At Sandown three starts back, Mi Rock Aly defeated Samuel Langhorne (NZ) (Shocking) over 2400m before that galloper turned the tables at Bendigo on April 13. Samuel Langhorne was then successful at Flemington before running sixth in the Listed Andrew Ramsden (2800m) at Flemington last week. While Mi Rock Ali has been burdened with 59.5kg, that has been offset by the 3kg claim for in-form apprentice Tatum Bull. View the full article

Nedwin will contest the John Cryan 2200 at Trentham on Saturday. Photo: Kenton Wright (Race Images) Paul Nelson and Corrina McChief Stipeal’s star jumpers Nedwin and The Cossack will line-up over the weekend, but they won’t feature over the fences. Nedwin featured prominently in the prestige hurdles last year, taking out the Waikato Hurdle (3200m) and Great Northern Hurdle (4200m). He resumed with an unplaced run over 2060m at Wanganui earlier this month and will have another flat run at Trentham on Saturday in the John Cryan 2200 to ready for his upcoming jumps season. “He needs a run and we were waiting for a wet track,” Nelson said. “It’s only his second run, but we will just take it as it is.” While Nedwin has added six hurdle wins to his six flat triumphs, he has yet to be tested over the bigger fences, something that will change in the coming months. “He will start somewhere along the line and then we will think about a chase,” Nelson said. “He would be the top-rated hurdler (96 rating), so that weight starts to catch up with you at some time.” A day later at Woodville, the stable’s champion jumper The Cossack will feature on the same card as his archrival West Coast, but the pair won’t meet just yet, with The Cossack kicking off his preparation on the flat in the Property Brokers Woodville-Pahiatua Cup (2100m). Last year The Cossack was victorious in the Waikato Steeplechase (3900m) and Pakuranga Hunt Cup (4800m) but was bettered by West Coast in the Wellington Steeplechase (5500m) and Great Northern Steeplechase (6500m). Nelson and McChief Stipeal are looking forward to kicking off his campaign and readying for a reunion with the West Coast this jumping season. “He will enjoy a heavy track,” Nelson said. “Getting stopped in his (The Cossack) tracks at Wellington, we didn’t get a fair go at him (West Coast), the northern we might have been a bit over the top, and he might not get to 6500m.” While The Cossack won’t meet West Coast on Sunday, stablemate Raucous will in the LJ Hooker Manawatu Steeplechase (4000m). “Raucous is raucous,” Nelson quipped. “He gallops around and does what he wants.” Nelson will also line-up Taika in the Manawatu ITM Awapuni Hurdle (3000m) on Sunday, while Foxalot is a doubtful starter in the Braeside Farm Hurdle (3000m). “Hopefully we are somewhere near it with him (Taika),” Nelson said. “He ran a pretty nice race the other day on the flat. “It depends on how the track is, Foxalot might not handle a really heavy track. We needed to give her another start somewhere.” Horse racing news View the full article

Conor O’Ceirin will contest the Majestic Horse Floats Handicap (1400m) at Trentham on Saturday. Photo: Race Images Palmerston North Stakes performer Conor O’Ceirin will take his first steps toward upcoming feature race targets when he resumes at Trentham on Saturday. The seven-year-old has a tidy first-up record and trainer Robbie Patterson is expecting the gelding to give another strong account of himself in the Majestic Horse Floats Handicap (1400m). Stablemate Shameless Boy will also return from a break in the Manawatu ITM Steeplechase Day Tomorrow At Woodville Handicap (1200m) and the unbeaten galloper is in good shape for the task ahead. Conor O’Ceirin is coming back from a lengthy break but has been given a thorough grounding and is a four-time winner off a break. “He galloped super yesterday (Thursday) morning and the rider got off and said he would be very competitive,” Patterson said. “He has trialled up really well, we know he’s got plenty of ability and he’s a bold sort of horse, so I can’t see why he won’t go a good race fresh-up. “There is a bit of race day fitness in that race but there’s no reason why the big fellow won’t be right there.” Conor O’Ceirin has won both of his open trials at Waverley and Foxton ahead of his Trentham assignment, in which Courtney Barnes will guide his fortunes from an inside barrier. “He’s had a jump-out as well and has had some good work at home, so he won’t be too far away,” Patterson said. Conor O’Ceirin’s future goals are the Listed Sinclair Electrical Opunake Cup (1400m) at New Plymouth on July 20 and the Group 3 Winning Edge Presentations Winter Cup (1600m) at Riccarton a fortnight later. The son of Dial A Prayer, who has six career victories to his credit, finished third in the Winter Cup during his last campaign and also has a placing in the Group 3 Anniversary Handicap (1600m) on his resume. Meanwhile, Shameless Boy will bid to keep his unbeaten record intact following wins at Otaki and New Plymouth earlier this year. “It’s a step up and with topweight it won’t be easy, but he’s won on heavy ground before and he’s got the ability,” Patterson said. Apprentice Lemmy Chief Stipelas’ claim will bring the three-year-old’s impost down to 58kg. “We’ll put the blinkers on him and he’s probably only trialled up average, but he’s very laid back,” Patterson said. “At the trials, we don’t use the stick on him but when you do he digs in, and he’s a horse that when you just leave him alone he’ll pull up. “The blinkers will keep him sharp and with the couple of kilos off we hope it will do the trick. He’s pretty forward after those trials and a jump-out.” Further success will also force potential suitors to dig deeper for the son of Shamexpress. “He’s for sale so if he was to win, he could end up offshore, but we’ll take it run by run,” Patterson said. Shameless Boy is a younger brother of stablemate and recent Hawera winner Catherinenz with the pair raced by breeder Roger Blunt, a Waikato dairy farmer. Horse racing news View the full article

What Hong Kong Champions & Chater Cup Day Where Sha Tin Racecourse – Tai Po Rd, Sha Tin District, Hong Kong When Sunday, May 26, 2024 First Race 12:45pm HKT (2:45pm AEST) Visit Dabble The Group 1 Hong Kong Champions & Chater Cup (2400m) headlines the action at Sha Tin on Sunday afternoon, with a mouthwatering 10-race program set for decision. The rail is positioned on the A course this weekend, and with some light rainfall expected for race-day, we could be racing on yielding ground at some stage. The opening race is scheduled to jump at 12:45pm local time. Hong Kong Champions & Chater Cup: Rebel’s Romance After a devastating display at Meydan in the Group 1 Dubai Sheema Classic (2400m) on March 30, Rebel’s Romance heads to Hong Kong with a glowing resume compared to his key rivals. He’s been a major player in Group 1 action around the world, including victories in the Breeders’ Cup Turf (2400m) at Keeneland in the USA and the Grosser Prels von Berlin (2400m) at Hoppegarten in Germany. Rebel’s Romance oozes quality, and only bad luck should get him beat. Hong Kong Champions & Chater Cup Race 7 – #1 Rebel’s Romance (8) 6yo Gelding | T: Charlie Appleby | J: William Buick (57kg) Bet with Bet365 Best Bet at Sha Tin: Divano Divano was a dominant winner on debut at this course and distance on March 24 before running into some bad luck second-up. The son of Brave Smash was bumped at the start and travelled wide during the middle stages, blunting his usually devastating turn of foot. Zac Purton will look to lead as he takes the reins for the first time, and with barrier one to aid him on his journey, Divano should be able to make amends at start three. Best Bet Race 5 – #1 Divano (1) 3yo Gelding | T: Francis Lui | J: Zac Purton (61kg) Bet with Bet365 Next Best at Sha Tin: Top Gun Top Gun was sensational when making every post a winner on his Hong Kong debut on April 28. He was able to cross from barrier 14 on that occasion, and with gate two in this Class 3 contest, expect Karis Teetan to adopt similar tactics aboard the son of Time Test. The Frankie Lor-trained gelding still has plenty of upside, and provided he can gain another soft run in transit, Top Gun must be considered the one to beat in the Sha Tin finale. Next Best Race 10 – #4 Top Gun (2) 3yo Gelding | T: Frankie Lor | J: Karis Teetan (58.5kg) Bet with Bet365 Best Value at Sha Tin: Little Brose Little Brose was simply outclassed in the Group 1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m) on April 28, over-racing throughout the journey. The 2023 Blue Diamond Stakes winner has been sent back to the trials to get his manners in order, stepping out comfortably on the Conghua turf on May 17. His best is good enough to win this, and with Hugh Bowman in the saddle, watch for Little Brose to give a bold sight at an each-way price with online bookmakers. Best Value Race 9 – #1 Little Brose (3) 3yo Colt | T: David Hayes | J: Hugh Bowman (61kg) Bet with Bet365 Hong Kong quaddie tips – 26/5/2024 Sha Tin quadrella selections Sunday, May 26, 2024 1-3 2-4-5-7-8-13 1-3-5-6-8-9-13 1-4-10 Horse racing tips
 View the full article

Prioress will head to Trentham to defend her title in Saturday’s $50,000 Autumn Sprint Final (1200m). Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North) Lisa Latta hopes a gear change might help turn around a disappointing campaign for Prioress as she heads to Trentham to defend her title in Saturday’s $50,000 Autumn Sprint Final (1200m). The daughter of Proisir scored an impressive victory over Highlighter in last year’s renewal of the lucrative Rating 75 sprint. It capped a consistent run of form that had seen her place in all of her five previous starts dating back to February. It has been a different story for Prioress in her five-year-old season. She was a second placegetter at this course over 1200m in November and again over 1100m in December, but has been unplaced in six starts since returning from a summer freshen-up – most of them on good or soft tracks, rather than her preferred heavy. Prioress showed more promising signs with a third placing with blinkers on in a Foxton trial on May 14. “Her form definitely hasn’t been as good this time around,” Latta said. “Part of that is probably because she just hasn’t quite had the right track conditions. “We’ve also tried putting some blinkers on, and I thought she performed quite a lot better when she trialled in blinkers at Foxton a fortnight ago. So we’re hoping that might help to improve her form a little bit.” Chris Dell will take the ride on Prioress on Saturday, with Lily Sutherland riding stablemate Amosia in her first appearance since September. “She’s coming up well,” Latta said. “She usually takes a run or two to build into her campaigns though, and she’s probably better on a looser track.” Latta collected two wins at Trentham last Saturday with Belle’s Echo and Lincoln Star, and both will back up and return to the same venue a week later. Belle’s Echo will contest the Majestic Horse Floats (1400m), while Lincoln Star lines up in the John Cryan (2200m). “They’ve both come through their wins last Saturday really well,” Latta said. “They should run well again. We initially weren’t sure about backing up with Belle’s Echo, but I’ve been really happy with her through this week. She has a very good record around Wellington.” Belle’s Echo has had six starts at Trentham for three wins and a placing. Another Latta-trained runner in strong form is Jestin Case, who steps up in class for Saturday’s Autotech Doors (1600m). Unplaced in all of her first four starts between July and September last year, the four-year-old has taken a big step forward this time in with two wins and a second from her four races since March. “I’ve been really happy with everything she’s done this time in,” Latta said. “It’s another step up on Saturday, going up to Rating 75 grade, but she’s in great form at the moment.” There are also three first-starters among Latta’s big Trentham team on Saturday, including the two-year-old Mr Miyagi. “He’s not very big, so we’ll probably give him one race and then put him aside to let him grow a bit more,” Latta said. “But he’s a nice horse and he tries hard.” Horse racing news View the full article

Rebel’s Romance wins the Dubai Sheema Classic. Charlie Appleby says Hong Kong is one of the world’s major racing capitals he is determined to crack as he enters his 12th season as a Godolphin trainer and he believes Rebel’s Romance is the right horse to do the job for him in the HK$13 million Group 1 Champions & Chater Cup (2400m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (26 May). Appleby has won 10 Breeders’ Cup races in the United States, five English Classics including two Derbies, as well as the Melbourne Cup and Sydney Cup, countless big races in Europe and the Middle East, but this superb international CV is lacking a major in the Far East. His sole attempt at Hong Kong success ended in disappointment when Blue Point trailed in last of nine runners in the 2018 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m), beaten many lengths by John Size-trained trifecta, Ivictory, Mr Stunning and Beat The Clock “It was my inexperience of Hong Kong racing that was the reason for that defeat,” Appleby admits. That year, subsequent to his Sha Tin failure, Blue Point went on to register the first of his two Group 1 King’s Stand Stakes (1000m) victories at Royal Ascot. “We are taking more notice now of what type of horse you need to bring and what will be best suited to the style of races being run. “Of course, we are not getting that experience first-hand but we are keen observers. Hong Kong is very much on our radar. It’s very competitive – of course, we all know about the prizemoney, but there is also the prestige of it. “You are taking on world-class trainers, who are based in Hong Kong now. They have come from all over the world to pit themselves against a group of talented young locals, who have come through the ranks, having worked for the best. They are also buying well on the international market. “Another feature of Hong Kong is the number of top-notch horses there are, which from a pool of around 1200 horses, is remarkable.” Rebel’s Romance boasts an impressive global record. He has won 12 of 18 starts for over £6 million (approx. HK$59 million) in prizemoney. Curiously, his first six races were exclusively on dirt or artificial surfaces. At six years of age, Rebel’s Romance is racing as well as ever. His last start resulted in triumph in the Group 1 Dubai Sheema Classic (2410m) at Meydan on 30 March. “He’s been a star to date,” Appleby reports. “He’s a multiple Group 1 winner in many countries, Germany, America, Qatar and Dubai, and he has been a model of consistency this season. “His preparation for the Champions and Chater has gone well. It’s a race we have always had our eye on. We’ve always felt the conditions would suit one of our horses. “One of the challenges is going to be the travel. It’s not as if he doesn’t like travelling – he’s won all over the place – but this is the furthest he has ever been. If he copes with that OK, we feel we have the right horse to be competitive,” he adds. Appleby and Rebel’s Romance’s jockey William Buick are due to arrive in Hong Kong on Saturday 25 May. Both will have finalised their Epsom Derby plans at that point, with the Classic on 1 June appearing wide open following a series of inconclusive trials in recent weeks. Godolphin hopes now rest solely on Ancient Wisdom, who although well-beaten into second in the Dante Stakes at York last week, could still line up in the big race. “We will see if he makes improvement after his trip to York,” his trainer points out. Appleby saddled Hidden Law to win the Chester Vase impressively, only to see the colt —who would have been Derby favourite off the back of that run — break his leg a few strides past the line and have to be put down. Another hopeful, Arabian Crown, has suffered a setback and will miss Epsom, too. While Appleby has yet to win a race in Hong Kong, the Godolphin stable has indeed had its share of success. Saeed bin Suroor sent out winners in the famous Royal Blue colours in the Hong Kong Cup, Hong Kong Mile, Vase and QEII Cup, the most recent being Mastery in the Vase 14 years ago. This weekend, Appleby will hope to add his name to the honour roll of one of Hong Kong’s most famous races. Sha Tin’s 10-race card on Sunday starts at 12.45pm HKT with the Pakistan Star Plate (1200m) for Griffins. Horse racing news View the full article

What Ballarat Races Where Ballarat Turf Club – 240 Kennedys Rd, Miners Rest VIC 3352 When Sunday, May 26, 2024 First Race 12:45pm AEST Visit Dabble The Ballarat Turf Club will host a very competitive eight-race card this Sunday afternoon from 12:45pm AEST. The track was a Soft 5 on Friday, and that rating is expected to hold over the weekend. The rail will be in the +6m position for the entire circuit, which should give on-speed runners a significant advantage. Best Bet at Ballarat: Sasqualah Sasqualah was very good first-up when battling with Romantic Choice over 1100m at Warrnambool, but the mare couldn’t pass the leader in the concluding stages. This daughter of Magnus will have taken a good fitness benefit from that run, and she looks well suited in a similar grade over 1200m second-up. Linda Meech will take Sasqualah to the front of the field and attempt to lead all the way. Best Bet Race 8 – #9 Sasqualah (8) 4yo Mare | T: Symon Wilde | J: Linda Meech (57.5kg) +130 with Bet365 Next Best at Ballarat: Ersa Ben, Will & JD Hayes will send Ersa to Ballarat for the second straight start as she attempts to return to the winners’ circle for the first time since breaking her maiden in October. Last start, this daughter of Lonhro was run over by Blown Away in the final 200m after doing a lot of work at the front of the field. From barrier seven, Michael Dee will push forward on Ersa and allow her to settle outside the leader before kicking clear at the top of the home straight. Next Best Race 6 – #9 Ersa (7) 3yo Filly | T: Ben, Will & JD Hayes | J: Michael Dee (59kg) +260 with Picklebet Best Value at Ballarat: Glorioso Glorioso will be having her sixth career start and comes off a torrid run at Warwick Farm, where the James Cummings-trained filly was trapped three wide for the entire 1000m journey. Considering the top three from that race are competing in Saturday grade next start, the form looks strong. If Fred Kersley can settle in the first three from barrier 11, Glorioso’s raceday experience will hold her in good stead. Best Value Race 1 – #2 Glorioso (11) 2yo Filly | T: James Cummings | J: Fred Kersley (57kg) +1000 with Neds Ballarat Sunday quaddie tips Ballarat quadrella selections Sunday, May 26, 2024 1-2-3-5-6 4-9 2-3-7-8 1-9 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Richard Freedman has taken aim at the rule which states trainers must notify stewards of any tactics change. Richard Freedman has ridiculed the rules which say trainers must declare a change of tactics prior to a race. While racing authorities are clearly aiming to stamp out any untoward practices, Freedman says the rules, notably Rule AR 135A are restrictive and hinder a trainer’s ability to do their job. The rule states that when a jockey is given an instruction which differs from when it was last ridden, they must notify stewards. Freedman, the youngest of the Freedman brothers, compared the situation to a football team declaring their tactics ahead of a match. “I can imagine ringing up Wayne Bennett and saying ‘listen Wayne let everybody know what your tactics are tomorrow’. I know what you would get,” he said Freedman, in an exchange with Sky Racing hosts, said part of punting was the chance factor and punters understood this. “That’s part of the competition to come up with tactics to defeat your opponent — why would you then divulge it to them so they can readjust their tactics,” he said. “It makes no sense to me. “I think the motive behind it was probably quite noble, they thought punters would really like to know about these change of tactics with horses so they could have more confidence betting.” Freedman again pointed to the ever-growing sports betting industry, which has continued to flourish, despite punters often being left in the dark about team selection and tactics. “But it doesn’t stop punters betting on sports,” he said. “I just think the putners will bet regardless — I don’t think they are that worried about it.” Freedman said the bulk of everyday punters would have no idea about any change of tactics in horse racing. “It’s just another superfluous rule,” he said. “I doubt hey will come out and rescind this rule, but at the very least stop policing it.” Richard, who trained for over 20 years in partnership with his brothers Lee, Anthony and Michael, winning five Melbourne Cups, is now training partnership with his son Will, out of Rosehill. Horse racing news View the full article

Race 1 HOLDEM CONTRACTING LEGEND HAWERA RIDERS MAIDEN HURDLES 2800m QUAFF (M Roustoby) – Trainer Mr. S Cameron reported to Stewards, the gelding will undergo chiropractor treatment on Tuesday 28 May and at this stage will continue on with QUAFF’S current preparation. The post Egmont Racing Club at Hawera, Sunday, 19 May 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

The Manawatu ITM Awapuni Hurdle (3000m) has not been a kind race to quality hurdler English Gambler, and the week leading into his third shot at the $60,000 feature at Woodville this Sunday has caused more headaches for his trainer Lauren Brennan. The son of Casino Prince has run in the Awapuni Hurdle in each of the last two years, finishing fourth in 2022 and being pulled up a year later. On both occasions, he was tripped up by gruelling Heavy10 tracks at Trentham. English Gambler kicked off his 2024 jumping season on a promising note with a bold front-running win at Te Rapa on May 4. However, after seeing an unfavourable weather forecast earlier this week, Brennan had serious reservations about committing to a third tilt at the Awapuni Hurdle. Woodville ended up missing the worst of that weather and was rated a Soft6 on Friday, but now those few days of uncertainty have caused a different issue. “The horse has been doing really well since his win at Te Rapa,” Brennan said. “Earlier in the week I thought we were very unlikely to go to this race because of how the weather was shaping up, but now it’s looking like the Woodville track won’t be too bad. “The problem we have now is trying to find someone to ride him. The jockeys all made other bookings when we thought we weren’t going to run. We might end up needing a scratching to free someone up to ride him. We’ll just have to wait and see what happens.” English Gambler was guided to his Te Rapa victory by Hamish McNeill, who has a commitment to ride the promising Paul Nelson and Corinna McChief Stipeal-trained runner Taika at Woodville this week. Despite the uncertainty, the TAB still rates English Gambler a $5 equal favourite for Sunday’s Awapuni Hurdle. Remarkably, he shares that quote with three other runners in the 12-horse field – Berry The Cash, Taika and Oxygen. Meanwhile, Brennan will also have representation at Pukekohe on Saturday with talented four-year-old Asgard contesting the TAB NZ (2100m). This will be the first start beyond 1600m for the four-year-old Almanzor gelding, who was a five-length maiden winner at Otaki two starts ago. “He’s going really well,” Brennan said. “This is his first time up over ground, so hopefully Joe (Doyle, jockey) will be able to get him to relax and he can run it out strongly.” View the full article

Lisa Latta hopes a gear change might help turn around a disappointing campaign for Prioress as she heads to Trentham to defend her title in Saturday’s $50,000 The Metro Interiors Autumn Sprint Final (1200m). The daughter of Proisir scored an impressive victory over Highlighter in last year’s renewal of the lucrative Rating 75 sprint. It capped a consistent run of form that had seen her place in all of her five previous starts dating back to February. It has been a different story for Prioress in her five-year-old season. She was a second placegetter at this course over 1200m in November and again over 1100m in December, but has been unplaced in six starts since returning from a summer freshen-up – most of them on good or soft tracks, rather than her preferred heavy. Prioress showed more promising signs with a third placing with blinkers on in a Foxton trial on May 14. “Her form definitely hasn’t been as good this time around,” Latta said. “Part of that is probably because she just hasn’t quite had the right track conditions. “We’ve also tried putting some blinkers on, and I thought she performed quite a lot better when she trialled in blinkers at Foxton a fortnight ago. So we’re hoping that might help to improve her form a little bit.” Chris Dell will take the ride on Prioress on Saturday, with Lily Sutherland riding stablemate Amosia in her first appearance since September. “She’s coming up well,” Latta said. “She usually takes a run or two to build into her campaigns though, and she’s probably better on a looser track.” Latta collected two wins at Trentham last Saturday with Belle’s Echo and Lincoln Star, and both will back up and return to the same venue a week later. Belle’s Echo will contest the Majestic Horse Floats (1400m), while Lincoln Star lines up in the John Cryan (2200m). “They’ve both come through their wins last Saturday really well,” Latta said. “They should run well again. We initially weren’t sure about backing up with Belle’s Echo, but I’ve been really happy with her through this week. She has a very good record around Wellington.” Belle’s Echo has had six starts at Trentham for three wins and a placing. Another Latta-trained runner in strong form is Jestin Case, who steps up in class for Saturday’s Autotech Doors (1600m). Unplaced in all of her first four starts between July and September last year, the four-year-old has taken a big step forward this time in with two wins and a second from her four races since March. “I’ve been really happy with everything she’s done this time in,” Latta said. “It’s another step up on Saturday, going up to Rating 75 grade, but she’s in great form at the moment.” There are also three first-starters among Latta’s big Trentham team on Saturday, including the two-year-old Mr Miyagi. By Staphanos out of the 10-race winner Shezatoucha, Mr Miyagi was a $45,000 purchase from Book 2 of Karaka 2023. “He’s not very big, so we’ll probably give him one race and then put him aside to let him grow a bit more,” Latta said. “But he’s a nice horse and he tries hard.” View the full article