Wandering Eyes

What Dark Jewel Classic Day Where Scone Race Club – 434 Bunnan Rd, Scone NSW 2337 When Saturday, May 18, 2024 First Race 11:05am AEST Visit Dabble The Group 3 Dark Jewel Classic (1400m) for the fillies and mares headlines a bumper 10-part program at Scone this Saturday. After racing in the true position on Friday, the rail moves out +3m between the 800m mark and the winning post. Light rainfall is expected throughout the day, so punters should anticipate a downgrade into the Soft range at some stage. The opening event is scheduled to get underway at 11:05am AEST. Dark Jewel Classic Pick: Ghaanati Ghaanati had no luck second-up at Hawkesbury on May 4, travelling three deep without cover for the entire journey. Despite the torrid run in transit, the daughter of Deep Impact continued to whack away into a top-four finish. Gate one ensures an economical run this time, and although she gives up 5.5kg to the minimum weight, Ghaanati appears primed to strike third-up in the Dark Jewel Classic. Dark Jewel Classic Race 8 – #2 Ghaanati (1) 4yo Mare | T: Peter & Paul Snowden | J: Joshua Parr (58.5kg) +750 with PlayUp Ortensia Stakes Pick: Insurrection The Michael Freedman-trained Insurrection is building a formidable resume, with 20 starts for seven wins and eight minor placings — including his most recent success in the Listed Canterbury Sprint (1200m) on January 1. Zac Lloyd boasts a terrific record of six starts for five wins aboard the four-year-old, and although he is first-up after 138-day spell, Insurrection has the class to dispatch his rivals. Ortensia Stakes Race 7 – #1 Insurrection (3) 4yo Gelding | T: Michael Freedman | J: Zac Lloyd (60kg) +400 with Bet365 Best Bet at Scone: Unusual Legacy Unusual Legacy struggled over an unsuitable trip first-up at Rosehill on April 27. He was doing his best work late under the urgings of Amy McLucas and closed to within a length of Highlights to suggest the four-year-old will take major benefit from the run. He struck second-up last preparation off a similar effort, and provided Jason Collet can sit within striking distance when turning for home, Unusual Legacy will prove hard to hold out. Best Bet Race 4 – #8 Unusual Legacy (3) 4yo Gelding | T: Chris Waller | J: Jason Collett (57kg) +150 with Neds Next Best at Scone: Jewellery Jewellery lost no admirers when going down by a half-length to Spring Lee at Canterbury on May 1. That run came fresh off a 427-day spell, so she should strip fitter for this BM72 contest. From barrier two, Zac Lloyd should be able to get on the back of the leading pair, and once asked for the ultimate effort, watch for Jewellery to bound clear with the prize. Next Best Race 5 – #8 Jewellery (2) 4yo Mare | T: James Cummings | J: Zac Lloyd (58kg) +300 with Unibet Best Value at Scone: Kalino Kalino was disappointing in the Group 3 Hall Mark Stakes (1200m) at Randwick on April 20, running last in unsuitable Heavy conditions. Chris Waller sent the five-year-old gelding back to the trials, and the son of Pierro strode out comfortably at Warwick Farm on May 7. Punters should expect a highly competitive outing by Kalino in the Listed Luskin Star Stakes (1300m) at enticing each-way price with online bookmakers. Best Value Race 9 – #6 Kalino (4) 5yo Gelding | T: Chris Waller | J: Sam Clipperton (55.5kg) +1200 with Picklebet Saturday quaddie tips – Dark Jewel Classic Day Scone quadrella selections Saturday, May 18, 2024 1-3-6-15 1-2-4-11-16 1-2-6-7-9-14 4-6-7-8-14 | Copy this bet straight to your betslip Horse racing tips View the full article

Alice Springs trainer Terry Gillett, pictured with daughter Dakota and wife Leanne, has four strong chances at Tennant Creek this Saturday. (Picture: Nikki Westover Photography) With speculation surrounding the future of star mare Dakota Lee, a big day at Tennant Creek on Saturday would be the perfect distraction for Alice Springs trainer Terry Gillett. Gillett has four runners on the six-event program for the annual Tennant Creek Cup Day meeting at Hagan Park. Great Buy, Brat and Protostar were all early favourites with horse racing bookmakers on Wednesday, while Valley Prince is a strong contender. Gillett had a respectable Alice Springs Cup Carnival during March and April with five wins, including Dakota Lee’s Cup Day win on April 7. The five-year-old mare’s future is in doubt due to some issues getting into the barriers, but for now, Gillett’s focus is on Tennant Creek. Great Buy has had 17 starts for Gillett for five wins and has missed the top four on two occasions. Fifth in the $100,000 Pioneer Sprint (1200m) in April, the seven-year-old gelding is a serious chance in the $30,000 Tennant Creek Cup (1600m). Brat, with eight wins and eight minor placings in 26 starts for the stable, can strike in the $21,500 Denis Staunton Memorial Cup (1200m) at 0-70 level. The five-year-old gelding finished third behind Dakota Lee on Alice Springs Cup Day and ran fourth last start over 1200m on April 20. Valley Prince, a six-year-old gelding, has had 41 starts for nine wins and 12 minor placings at the top level and must be respected over 1450m in 0-64 grade. Protostar boasted a win, two seconds, a third and a fourth from his first five Alice starts before a last-start seventh two weeks ago after blowing the start. The five-year-old gelding is certainly in the mix over 1200m at Class 2 level. Gillett, who won the 2020/21 Alice Springs trainers’ premiership, finished second the next two years and sits third this season behind Paul Gardner (19) and Kerry Petrick (18.5) with 16 wins. “Terry has four genuine hopes on Saturday, and to win both Cups would be a rare achievement,” Thoroughbred Racing NT chief executive officer Andrew O’Toole said. “Angela Forster has won the Tennant Creek Cup three times with Lotion (twice) and Starouz — she makes the trip from Darwin with the competitive Command King. “Will Savage’s Fantasy Eagle and Brut Star were second and fourth last start, while Dan Morgan’s Barocco Bar is good enough on his day.” Gillett’s daughter and apprentice Dakota, back home after a stint with Adelaide trainers Richard and Chantelle Jolly, partners her dad’s quartet on Saturday. Horse racing news View the full article

Gold Trip ridden by Mark Zahra wins the 2022 Melbourne Cup at Flemington. (Photo by Pat Scala/Racing Photos) Gold Trip has run his last race, but the Melbourne Cup winner will continue to make a significant impact on Victorian racing as he transitions to his new role at stud. The rising eight-year-old, renowned for his exceptional performances, will now stand at the newly-launched Lovatsville (formerly Leneva Park Stud) near Seymour, just an hour north of Flemington. He will begin his first breeding season this spring with a fee set at $8800. Purchased from Europe for $2.3 million, Gold Trip more than repaid his owners, Australian Bloodstock, with nearly $7 million in Australian earnings by the time of his final race—a third-place finish in the Group 2 Peter Young Stakes (1800m) at Caulfield in February. A tendon injury in March ultimately led to the decision to retire him. Gold Trip’s career highlights include his 2022 Melbourne Cup victory, where he carried 57.5 kilograms to become the first topweight to win since Makybe Diva’s third victory in 2005. Additionally, his brilliant performance in the 2022 Group 1 Turnbull Stakes at Flemington, where he stormed from near last to win, solidified his reputation. That race saw him defeat a formidable field, including eventual Melbourne Cup runner-up Soulcombe and Cox Plate winner Romantic Warrior. Australian Bloodstock director Jamie Lovett praised Gold Trip’s Turnbull Stakes performance, stating, “There is no doubt in my mind that he was beating the best 2000-metre field assembled in this country in the last 20 years, and he beat them with his head on his chest.” Champion trainer Ciaron Maher, who trained Gold Trip in partnership with David Eustace, reflected on the horse’s remarkable career. “He won a Melbourne Cup, was beaten a lip in the Caulfield Cup, was a weight-for-age Turnbull Stakes winner, could have won a Cox Plate and was elite in an Arc. He is a legitimate freak,” Maher said. He also emphasized the significance of Gold Trip’s Melbourne Cup win and the impressive nature of his Turnbull Stakes victory, given the field he defeated that day. Sam White of Lovatsville noted the value Gold Trip brings to the breeding barn. “At $8800, he is priced extremely well considering his ability. We want to inject further value into the opportunity by providing very attractive breeding right packages so that Gold Trip’s supporters can access him for the duration of his career for a modest outlay,” he said. Gold Trip, a son of Outstrip, was bred in France and initially showcased his talent in Europe, including a fourth-place finish in the 2020 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Recruited to Australia by Australian Bloodstock, he made a significant impact despite a tendon injury delaying his Victorian spring debut in 2021. His Australian highlights include a narrow second in the Caulfield Cup and a luckless ninth in the Cox Plate before his Melbourne Cup triumph. As Gold Trip transitions to stud life at Lovatsville, he joins a roster that includes Royal Meeting, Fierce Impact, and newcomer Generation. His legacy on the track, combined with his promising potential as a sire, ensures his continued influence on Australian racing. Lovett expressed gratitude for the thrilling moments Gold Trip provided, saying, “He gave us the thrill of a lifetime in the spring of 2022 and we’re thankful that he retires as a healthy horse whose progeny will be seen on racetracks in Australia again.” Gold Trip’s journey from a European import to a celebrated champion in Australia is a testament to his extraordinary talent and resilience. His presence at Lovatsville marks the beginning of a new chapter, promising to shape the future of racing with his progeny. Horse racing news View the full article

Turn The Ace has six victories at Te Rapa already under his belt, and Andrew Forsman sees no reason why he can’t add to that tally in the Dunstan Horsefeeds 1300 on Saturday. The five-year-old Turn Me Loose gelding has a well-known love affair with the track and ran a competitive field off their feet fresh-up earlier this month, with a second-up record even more convincing with three wins from four attempts. “It was a great effort, he always tends to run well there and his record is probably better with a run under his belt, so going into it we thought he had the potential to run well,” Forsman said. “When he found the front and railed up like he did, he was always going to be hard to beat.” The Cambridge trainer has secured Opie Bosson for Saturday’s ride, where Turn The Ace is likely to adopt his regular front-running role in the open sprint. “He’ll go forward, he loves to just bowl along on pace and it’s where he prefers to be,” Forsman said. “Whether that is out on the middle of the track at the end of the day, or on the rail I don’t think it matters too much. We’ve got Opie on, and he’ll be instructed to be positive and put him in the race. Hopefully he can do it again. “It doesn’t make much sense to stray too far from Te Rapa, so while he’s in good form and racing well there, we’ll keep racing there.” Among Forsman’s other runners is a pair of last-start victors in City Girl and Lady Pappygate, with the former a half-sister to impressive juvenile and Gr.2 VRC Sires Produce Stakes (1400m) runner-up Rue De Royale. “She (City Girl) put in a good effort and it was good to see her get her dues,” Forsman said. “She had run well last preparation from a couple of awkward draws and had to do a bit too much, so we gave her a break and she looks like she’ll handle rain-affected footing too which is nice. “She’s quick and likes to jump and run, there will be a few others in the field with the same idea though so we’ll try to be positive as that can be an advantage early on at Te Rapa. “It’s not easy taking the step-up and there’s a few other race winners in the field that’ll be hard to beat, but I’m sure she’ll be competitive.” The daughter of Shooting To Win will line-up in the KPMG 3YO (1100m) with Joe Doyle on board, and he will also partner Lady Pappygate in the Champion Freight 1300. “She’s come along great since her win at Otaki, we wanted to run at Rotorua last week but she drew too wide. She’s got a much better draw here, so the plan is to hold a positive spot in running so if she can trial or lead would be the intention,” Forsman said. City Girl and Lady Pappygate have been nominated for the ITM/GIB 3YO Final (1600m) later in the season at Ruakaka alongside stablemate Satin Doll, who will chase a breakthrough win in the Greene Racing Mile (1600m) “She has a tendency to get back and leave herself with a bit too much to do, so hopefully by the time her race is run, the rail is a bit off for her sake, because she doesn’t have that early tactical speed,” Forsman said. “Hopefully they are swooping down the straight by then. “The Ruakaka race is an option for them, but nominations are asked for a long way out, so it really depends on whether they are up and going and in good form at the time. They are nice options to have, but not necessarily their target race.” Forsman’s attention will also be across the Tasman at Flemington on Saturday, with Riproar, Mr Maestro and Full Of Sincerity accepting into their respective races. A three-race winner, Riproar burst back into form last-start at Caulfield and remains at three-year-old open grade, while Group Two-performer Mr Maestro will contest a Benchmark 100 event over 1600m. “It was a great return to form for Riproar, I think the drop back to 1400m helped him so he’ll go again at the distance,” Forsman said. “My only concern is the barrier draw (10), he is going really well heading into the race and it’s a competitive even line-up so he’s just going to need a bit of luck from that draw. A soft track does help him, there’s been a bit of rain around up there, but Flemington needs a fair bit on the day to become genuinely rain-affected. “I don’t think that will be the case, but there may be the fire out of the ground which is nice for him as he gets through rain-affected ground better than most. “Mr Maestro was disappointing at Morphettville after being very good first-up, he was just messing around in the gates and missed the start when we had planned to be on pace. “They sprinted off a slow tempo and he almost just got left, which is a forgive for him, but it was disappointing to go down there for a race we felt he could win and see it unfold like that. “We’ve applied the blinkers for Saturday, he had a jump-out with them on last week and Damien Lane (jockey) thought they did switch him on a bit. It’ll be the first time in them since he was a young horse, so hopefully that just sparks him up. “Full Of Sincerity has been a frustration. To be fair to him he was outpaced first-up, he was good second-up over a mile then last-start at Caulfield we just had to ride him upside down in a field with no tempo, which wasn’t where he likes to run his races. “1800m at Flemington gives him every chance to perform like he did at Mornington that day, so if he does he’ll run well.” View the full article

Cindy Falls evened the ledger with Sir Sterling at Te Rapa last start, and she will be out to go one better when the pair meet at the Hamilton track once more in Saturday’s Jones Trucking 1400. The Lauren Brennan-trained Sir Sterling got the upper hand in in their first meeting in September last year, and trainer Jon Miller was pleased to see his mare turn the tables last month over 1300m. “They have met a couple of times, when she was first-up a while ago he was first and she was second at Te Rapa, and she turned the tables on him last time,” Miller said. “She has come through it well, I am fairly happy with her. I am just trying to keep her on the fresh side.” Cindy Falls has drawn the ace barrier, while Sir Sterling has drawn out wide in 14, a place Miller would rather be when it comes to race seven on what was rated a Heavy8 track on Friday morning. “The only thing I am concerned about is if the track gets a bit too cut up on the inside as she has drawn barrier one,” he said. “It is a fairly similar field, so we will just try and ride her the same way as we did last time, just quietly.” TAB bookmakers are leaning towards Sir Sterling on Saturday, with the four-year-old gelding rated a $5.50 favourite, with Cindy Falls a joint fourth favourite at $7. The winner of three of her 11 races to date, Miller is excited for the future with his mare, but said he will take her along quietly. “I am just trying to get her through the first couple of runs before she starts to step up,” he said. “It is just a matter of placing her at the moment, guide her through and then see where we are at. “It is only early days for us at the moment. We are just trying to pick through the grades and hopefully we will get her up over a bit of ground, around 2000m, I think that is where she is going to find her real groove.” Miller will also line-up last start placegetter Super Dailo in the Direct Fats & Oils 1200. While he has also drawn an inside alley (2), Miller said being in an earlier race, he is less concerned about the heavy track conditions. “He is in the earlier part of the day, so I am not too worried about the track at that point. I think it is quite a nice draw for him,” he said. View the full article

Cody Cole is hopeful that his promising mare Kind Thoughts will have her chance at stakes glory in Saturday’s Listed James Bull Rangitikei Cup (1600m) at Trentham. The talented daughter of Tarzino has scarcely put a foot wrong in her short career, posting two victories and two seconds from five attempts, most recently surprising the Matamata trainer with a success fresh-up at Ruakaka on May 1. “I was really happy with her, she wasn’t anywhere near ready for that race, but we thought we’d just go around for a run, and she just had too much class for them winning it quite easily,” Cole said. “She’s a real staying mare that doesn’t take a lot of work once she’s up and got her fitness. We haven’t done a whole lot with her since then, but her work on Tuesday was really good and I couldn’t fault her.” Rated at 68, the four-year-old fell just short of making the field for the feature but needs only one scratching to take her place under regular rider Matt Cameron. “She loves Trentham, she loves the big straight so fingers crossed we can get a start,” Cole said. “Matt will just let the speed unfold and get back a couple of positions, he’s got the big wide open space so I wouldn’t be worried in she was in the last half of the field in running. “When she quickens up, she looks like she’s never going to get there but once she gets going she’s got a pretty good turn of foot. “The topweight (Justaskme on 59kg) obviously compresses the handicap, but at the 53kg, if the best of her turns up I think she’ll be running a very bold race.” A Gerry Harvey-owned and bred Kind Thoughts will travel south alongside stablemates Latrelle and debutant Haughty, who will contest the Southern Rangitikei Vet & TransAg Centre (1600) and TAB Odds Surge Every Race At Trentham (1400) respectively. “She was very unlucky at Ruakaka last start, everywhere she wanted to go she didn’t get a run and would’ve been right there, but she was still pretty close-up anyway,” Cole said. “She’s got a sticky gate (15) on Saturday, but she doesn’t cop heavy tracks and we’re probably going to end up on a soft track, so we’ll have to roll the dice and hope she gets the break she needs. “Haughty has been working really well, she probably lacks a bit of experience and another trial would’ve done her good, but we’re getting to the time of the year where the tracks are a bit heavy and I’m not sure she’ll be a wet tracker. “I think the big space at Trentham will allow her to wind up and be hitting the line well, but whether she’s a winning chance, she may not know enough just yet.” Closer to home on Saturday, Cole will have eyes on the Te Rapa meeting with two impressive last start winners in Part Time Lover and The Prophet both engaged. Lightly-tried Swiss Ace mare Part Time Lover steps into Rating 65 company in the Champion Freight 1300, while Jarvis Trading Mile (1600) contender The Prophet gave a sight at the Woodville meeting putting 4-1/4 lengths on his challengers on debut. “She (Part Time Lover) worked particularly well on Tuesday and has come through her trip to Woodville really well,” Cole said. “She’s got a nice cosy gate down on the rail (2) that shouldn’t be too worn by early in the day, Gryllsy (Craig Grylls, jockey) knows her and the track should be in the range she wants. She should be able to give it a good shake and will be one of our better chances this weekend. “The Prophet’s win was a bit of a surprise, he’s always shown us a bit but not that much, he really made them look second-rate which I didn’t really expect. “He’s come through it really well, he’s a pretty straightforward, clean-winded horse and he worked with Kind Thoughts on Tuesday. “He’s drawn a horror gate (20), but I’m not too worried about that because he drew a good gate at Woodville and ended up five-back the fence, so he’ll end up back in running. If he can get out and produce a sustained sort of run, you’d think he’d be running a pretty good race.” The pair also sport the colours of Westbury Stud owner Harvey, who has been a key supporter for Cole in his training career. “They’ve been great supporters of mine all the way through, back when I was breaking in and doing Ready-To-Run preparations they had horses with me and as I moved over to racing they’ve been great,” he said. “I can’t thank Russell Warwick, Gerry Harvey and the Westbury team enough.” Cole’s weekend contingent is completed by maiden contenders Rareza and Hanginonbyathread, who line-up alongside each other in barrier 12 and 13 in the Direct Fat & Oils 1200. “Both of them have shown us plenty of ability at home, Rareza obviously did it all wrong at Taupo and tried to buck back in November, but her trial at Te Awamutu recently was really good,” he said. “We were pretty disappointed by Hanginbyathread’s maiden performance, he just got a bit worked up at his home track. I think if he ran up to his work, he’d be running a race.” View the full article

After starting the season as a maiden, in-form Matamata visitor Channel Surfer will chase a deserved stakes title to complete his four-year-old year at Trentham on Saturday in the Listed Rangitikei Gold Cup (1600m). The son of Derryn raced in top company as a three-year-old, including placings in the Gr.2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m) and the Listed Trevor Corallie Eagle Memorial (1500m), and has continued to perform into this term, highlighted by an eye-catching run for third in the Gr.3 Manco Easter Handicap (1600m), only being outshone by his stablemate Snazzytavi. Graham Richardson, who trains the gelding in partnership with Rogan Norvall, believes he has continued to thrive after the Te Rapa feature, and deserves his place in Saturday’s field. “His run in the Easter was very good, he’s come from a long way back and he’s really whacked away well in a strong race. He deserves a go at the Rangitikei Gold Cup because of that,” he said. “He just keeps getting better and better, he’s as tough as nails and thrives on racing.” Wiremu Pinn has been engaged for the ride, with Channel Surfer sitting among 12 horses on the 53kg minimum, and drew the ace barrier. “The draw is an advantage, but it just depends on how wet the track is on Saturday,” Richardson said. “It’s his last run, and I know I’ll be tipping him out for a little while and getting ready for the early spring races.” Richardson purchased the four-year-old at the New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sales in 2021 and has enjoyed maintaining a share in the $201,000 earner. “It’s nice to have shares in nice horses like him, and horses like Therapeutic and Sorghaghtani,” he said. The latter, a mare by Mongolian Khan, has accepted for the Jarvis Trading Mile (1600m) at Te Rapa on Saturday, alongside stablemate and impressive last-start winner Darci’s Angel. “She’s (Sorghaghtani) a very genuine mare, she may run at Taupo (next Wednesday) instead of Saturday though. Either way, she is very well in herself,” Richardson said. “Darci’s Angel’s work on Tuesday was very good, she’s not a big filly so she’s carrying a bit of weight with the 58kg but has a gun rider on board (Opie Bosson). I’m very happy with that. “She’s also a very genuine horse, she wants cut in the ground, but not overboard.” View the full article

Race 5 CAMPBELL INFRASTRUCTURE ROTORUA CUP 2200 (Listed Race) THE FEARLESS ONE (C Grylls) – Trainer Mr. R Patterson reported to Stewards, THE FEARLESS ONE has now been retired from racing. Race 7 ROTORUA ITM STAKES 1400 (G3) I’MUNSTOPPABLE (S Spratt) – Co-trainer Mr. A Scott advised Stewards, the stable was satisfied with the post-race condition of I’MUNSTOPPABLE, however, has now been sent for a spell. The post Racing Rotorua, Saturday, 11 May 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Race 2 A B ELECTRICAL LTD 2YO 1200m PLEASING (L Allpress) – Trainer Mr. M Breslin advised Stewards, that on Monday 13 May, PLEASING underwent a veterinary examination which included blood test with no abnormalities being detected. M Breslin further advised it is his intention to continue on with the filly’s current preparation. The post Taranaki Racing Inc at Pukekura Raceway, New Plymouth, Saturday, 11 May 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Race 7 SLATTERY CONTRACTING MAIDEN 1400 LET IT RIDE (S Spratt) – Co-trainer Mr. A Scott advised Stewards, the stable was satisfied with the post-race condition of the gelding, however, has now been sent for a spell. The post Matamata Racing Club, Wednesday, 8 May 2024 appeared first on RIB. View the full article

Winner of the 2020 Belmont Stakes (G1), freshman sire Tiz the Law stands for $20,000 at Ashford Stud near Versailles, Ky.View the full article

Observations on the European Racing Scene turns the spotlight on the best European races of the day, highlighting well-pedigreed horses early in their careers, horses of note returning to action and young runners that achieved notable results in the sales ring. Friday's Observations features the joint top-priced colt at the Arqana October Yearling Sale. 15.00 Newbury, Mdn, £12,000, 2yo, 6fT JOUNCY (GB) (Wootton Bassett {GB}) is the seventh foal out of Juddmonte's dual listed winner and multiple group-placed Joyeuse (GB) (Oasis Dream {GB}), a half-sister to the great Frankel (GB) whose four black-type performers are headed by Galileo's group 1 performer Maximal (GB). Also a half to last year's G2 Mill Reef S. winner Array (Ire) (No Nay Never), this April-foaled colt is trained like that performer by Andrew Balding. 16.15 Leopardstown, Mdn, €18,000, 2yo 7f 52yT MOUNT KILIMANJARO (FR) (Siyouni {Fr}) is a notable Ballydoyle newcomer, being the joint top-priced colt at Arqana Deauville October when selling for €420,000. Out of a dual graded-stakes-placed half to the grade I winners Coil and Chiropractor (Kitten's Joy). He meets a Joseph O'Brien-trained fellow newcomer in Scorthy Champ (Ire) (Mehmas {Ire}), a full-brother to the classy Malavath (Ire) and TDN Rising Star Knight (Ire). The post Notable Ballydoyle Newcomer Runs At Leopardstown appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Big Evs earned his place at Royal Ascot with a perfect comeback in the May 16 Westow Stakes, which left Mick Appleby excited that his popular star sprinter could hit even greater heights this year.View the full article

TIMONIUM, MD – After an unexpected day off Wednesday and a two-hour delay, the under-tack show for the Fasig-Tipton Midlantic May 2-Year-Olds in Training Sale resumed for its second session at 10 a.m. Thursday with a lively surface and a significant tailwind which persisted throughout the day. The first horse to work Thursday matched the :10 flat bullet time of Tuesday's opening session of the three-day show and was followed in that first set by six more to hit that mark in the first set before a colt by Street Boss (hip 314) broke out of the pack with a :9 4/5 work in the day's third set. It wasn't until the day's seventh and final set that that bullet time was matched by a colt by Vekoma (hip 285, video). Consigned by Longoria Training and Sales, hip 314 is out of Snow Mesa (Sky Mesa) and from the family of graded winner Fort Prado. “I thought he could go as fast as any horse here could go,” Jessie Longoria said of the colt. “I worked him a quarter at home and he worked really big and I was almost tempted to go a quarter here. But then I was worried–what if I make the wrong call? I didn't want to mess it up. I told my rider, 'He's really fast, just let him do his thing.' And sure enough, when he left, my phone was ringing off the hook and I couldn't answer because I had him and we were coming back. Everyone was calling me at the same time. It's an awesome feeling.” The colt is a family affair of the Longorias, who purchased him under the name 3 Sisters for $35,000 at last year's Keeneland September sale. “I have three daughters,” Longoria said. “I buy a lot of horses and they help me and they have a good eye for it, but this was the first year I took them up to short list with me. They picked a bunch of horses and then I said, 'Now pick one for yourselves.' They said, 'We found one.' They took me back there and I liked him, he looked fast.” “I said I would buy one for them for $20,000 and then when we sell him, they could pay me back,” Longoria said. “So we got up there [to bid] and they kept asking are you going to keep going? You're going to keep going? I was hitting him back, and anyway, I ended up buying the horse for $35,000. I wanted them to learn and appreciate the whole process instead of just giving it to them. I said I would buy him, but you guys have to take care of him and you've got to feed him and do it all. And they've done that. It's going to be a big reward, hopefully, if everything goes good.” Longoria's daughters, now between 20 and 26, have grown up around the business, but the consignor isn't sure any of them will make it their career. “One of them lives in Hawaii and the other two help me with the horses,” Longoria said. “My youngest one is getting her pilot's license and when we came up here, she said if he does good she wants to pay for the rest of her school. She wants to go to Embry-Riddle. My middle daughter, when I leave, she runs the barn. But does she want to do it? I don't know. She's a really good artist. She is taking art classes online. She doesn't really know what she wants to do.” Asked if it was more stressful to train for family, Longoria said, “Not really. When it's our own horses, we know the game. It can go good, it can go bad. Things can happen. But we know that and we accept that and we just do what we have to do and go on to the next one. When you have customers–I don't have many, but I do have some–it's hard because they don't understand that. It's more pressure. You want to do good for them, but in this business, it doesn't always go that way. I think it's less pressure for us when it's for us. We know the game and we know what can happen.” Longoria consigned Maymun (Frosted), a $50,000 yearling purchase by the consignor and Paul Neatherlin, who sold for $900,000 at last year's OBS April sale and is now unbeaten in two starts for Bob Baffert and Zedan Racing Stables. “It's not over until you get all the X-rays and scoping done,” Longoria said. “There are a lot of hoops. But it's exciting and we are going to enjoy the moment right now.” With only a handful of horses left to work Thursday, hip 285 equaled the day's bullet for Wavertree Stables. From the first crop of multiple Grade I winner Vekoma, the chestnut is out of Scion Power (Wildcat Heir), a full-sister to graded winner Derwin's Star. He was purchased for $175,000 at last year's Fasig-Tipton July sale. “The colt was in [OBS] March and worked really good there,” said Wavertree's Ciaran Dunne. “He came up with a tiny little P1 flake in his ankle and we didn't want to sell him compromised. So we took it out and brought him here. He came in here off of limited training, but he's always been really talented.” Hip 285 | Fasig-Tipton While rain forced the postponement of the under-tack show Wednesday, Dunne said conditions were favorable Thursday. “They did a good job getting the track back from where it was after all the rain we had,” he said. “And there was a tailwind as opposed to the headwind [from Tuesday's first session], which was probably good for a bit of a push.” Thursday's session of the under-tack show concluded with 10 horses working the furlong in :10 flat, while four horses shared the day's fastest quarter-mile time of :21 1/5. Three of the four bullet workers came in the day's second set, with a filly by Instilled Regard (hip 203, video) first to hit that mark for Hoppel LLC, agent. That gray filly was followed by a filly by Authentic (hip 374, video) from the Hartley/DeRenzo Thoroughbreds consignment; and a Maclean's Music colt (hip 225, video) consigned by Golden Rock Thoroughbreds. The quartet was completed by a colt by Bolt d'Oro (hip 258, video) consigned by Pike Racing at Highlander. Thursday's session of the under-tack show was marred by the fatal breakdown of hip 275, who fell to the track during her gallop out. The under-tack's final session is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. Friday. The Midlantic May sale will be held next Monday and Tuesday with bidding beginning each day at 11 a.m. The post Colts by Street Boss, Vekoma Tie for Fastest Furlong in Timonium Thursday appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Every week, the TDN posts a roundup of the relevant Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA) -elated rulings from around the country. Among this week's rulings, trainer Pavel Matejka has been suspended seven days for four separate cannabidiol (CBD) positives. The four cases occurred between Feb. 17 and Mar. 15. Under HISA, CBD is classified a Class B controlled substance. The massive proliferation in CBD products for humans has spilled over into the equine world. The purported benefits from CBD use in horses include treatment of inflammation, ulcers, laminitis, colic, and decreased anxiety. This broader societal trend has led to several regulatory warnings issued to trainers in recent years about the largely unregulated market place for these products, leading to questions over purity, consistency, and safety. Trainer Arturo Chavez has also been suspended for seven days for two capsaicin positives–from Bye Bye Brooky who won at Sunland Park on Mar. 7, and from Jr's Confidence, who won at Sunland Park on Mar. 15. A Class B controlled medication under HISA, capsaicin is the active ingredient in chilli peppers causing burning and irritation. It can be found in topical analgesics. NEW HISA/HIWU STEWARDS RULINGS The following rulings were reported on HISA's “rulings” portal and through the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit's (HIWU) “pending” and “resolved” cases portals. Resolved ADMC Violations Date: 05/15/2023 Licensee: Bruce Levine, 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. Final decision by HIWU. Explainer: For the presence of Dexamethasone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Fortune's Nephew, who finished third at Aqueduct on 12/30/23. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 05/15/2024 Licensee: Todd Pletcher, 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. Final decision by HIWU. Explainer: For the presence of Dexamethasone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Give Me Kisses, who finished fifth at Aqueduct on 12/14/23. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 05/13/2024 Licensee: Pavel Matejka, trainer Penalty: 7-day period of Ineligibility for Covered Person, beginning on May 14, 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. The following are treated as 1 violation under 09/08/23 HISA Guidance. Explainer: For the presence of Cannabidiol (CBD)-Controlled Medication (Class B)-in a sample taken from Calrissian, who finished second at Oaklawn Park on 3/15/24 and on 2/23/24; in a sample taken from Erna, who finished third at Turfway Park on 2/24/24; and in a sample taken from Vicki Rose, who finished second at Oaklawn Park on 2/17/24. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Date: 05/13/2024 Licensee: Arturo Chavez, trainer Penalty: 7-day period of Ineligibility for Covered Person, beginning on May 14, 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. This is treated as 1 violation with Jr's Confidence under 09/08/23 HISA Guidance. Admission. Explainer: For the presence of Capsaicin-Controlled Medication (Class B)-in a sample taken from Bye Bye Brooky, who won at Sunland Park on 3/7/24, and in a sample taken from Jr's Confidence, who won at Sunland Park on 03/15/24. This is a possible violation of Rule 3312-Presence of Controlled Medication Substance and/or its Metabolites or Markers (Post-Race/Vets' List). Pending ADMC Violations 05/08/2024, Dayson LaVanway, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of Triamcinolone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Sir Looking Glass who finished second at Turf Paradise on 3/27/24. 05/08/2024, Michael Hewitt, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of Dexamethasone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Miss Double Glass who finished second at Will Rogers on 4/2/24. 05/08/2024, Michael Hewitt, trainer: Pending medication violations for the presence of Capsaicin-Controlled Medication (Class B)-in a sample taken from Daboogeyman who won at Will Rogers on 4/2/24; and from Shacks Way who won at Oaklawn Park on 4/7/24. 05/08/2024, Juan Cano, trainer: Pending vets' list medication violation for the presence of Omeprazole-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Ibn Al Arabi on 4/3/24. 05/08/2024, Francisco Ramos, trainer: Pending vets' list medication violation for the presence of Clenbuterol-A banned substance-in a sample taken from You're a Dandy on 4/14/24. 05/09/2024, Miguel Rodriguez, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of an Alkalinizing agent (TCO2) in a sample taken from Tilsa, who finished fifth at Parx Racing on 3/25/24. 05/09/2024, Silvino Ramirez, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of an Alkalinizing agent (TCO2) in a sample taken from Perfect Day, who finished fifth at Parx Racing on 4/17/24. 05/10/2024, Victor Carrasco, Jr., trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of Dexamethasone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Perfectly Golden who won at Tampa Bay on 3/8/24. 05/10/2024, Gerald Bennett, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of Methocarbamol-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from She's So Sexy who finished second at Tampa Bay on 4/5/24. 05/10/2024, Jesus Nunez, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of Dexamethasone-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Run Auntie T Run who won at Los Alamitos on 4/6/24. 05/13/2024, David Jacobson, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of an Alkalinizing agent (TCO2) in a sample taken from Got Thunder, who finished second at Penn National on 3/21/24. 05/13/2024, Karen Yanez, trainer: Pending vets' list medication violation for the presence of Dantrolene-Controlled Medication (Class C)-in a sample taken from Jess's Vision on 4/6/24. 05/14/2024, Christophe Clement, trainer: Pending vets' list medication violation for the presence of Acepromazine-Controlled Medication (Class B)-in a sample taken from Mizoula, who finished second at Gulfstream Park on 3/3/24. 05/15/2024, Paul Valery, trainer: Medication violation interim suspension for the presence of Formestane and 4-Hydroxytestosterone-both banned substances-in a sample taken from Quincy Cafe, who won at Gulfstream Park on 3/13/24; and from Pure Speight, who won at Gulfstream Park on 4/21/24. 05/14/2024, Eric Reed, trainer: Pending medication violation for the presence of Gabapentin-Controlled Medication (Class B)-in a sample taken from Lost Bikini, who won at Mahoning Valley on 4/13/24. Violations of Crop Rule One important note: HISA's whip use limit is restricted to six strikes during a race. Golden Gate Fields Francisco Duran – violation date May 10; $250 fine and one-day suspension Leonel Camacho Flores – violation date May 11; $250 fine and one-day suspension Penn National Julio Hernandez – violation date May 10; $250 fine and one-day suspension Prairie Meadows Armando Martinez – violation date May 10; $250 fine and one-day suspension Armando Martinez – violation date May 10; $250 fine and one-day suspension Thistledown Rocco Bowen – violation date May 13; $250 fine and one-day suspension 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. California Track: Santa Anita Date: 05/10/2024 Licensee: Darin Ott, owner Penalty: Suspension Explainer: Owner Darin D. Ott having failed to respond to written notice to appear before the Board of Stewards at Santa Anita Park on May 9, 2024, is suspended for violation of California Horse Racing Board rule #1547 (Failure to Appear) pending an appearance at a hearing before the Board of Stewards to answer to charges alleging violation of CHRB rule #1876 (Financial Responsibility- $1,237.30 to Southern California Equine Foundation Inc.). Suspension to commence on May 17, 2024. The post Weekly Stewards and Commissions Rulings, May 8 – May 15 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

By Mike Love The country’s leading trainers Robert and Jenna Dunn will be looking for more success at Addington tonight when they line up multiple runners in both the night’s features, the Group 3 SENZ-NZ New Zealand 2YO Trotting Stakes and the Group 1 Avon City Ford New Zealand Welcome Stakes. With 74 wins this year, including 13 in May alone, Diamond Racing has been a dominant force and co-trainer Robert Dunn believes his team are where they need to be to play a strong hand again this evening. Race four, the $50,000 Trotting Stakes will feature two Dunn runners, including the favourite Ya Rite Darl ($2.00FF) who showed above average ability winning her previous start. “She’s come through her last run really well, John (Dunn) is super happy with her. She seems a fairly solid trotter,” said Robert Dunn. “There’s a couple of nice horses in there that she’ll have to beat, but she’s going well and with a good run she’ll be tough to beat.” Ya Rite Darl will be driven by John Dunn. Dunn however gave a strong push for their other starter Frazzled ($11.00FF). Also by What The Hill, she made an error on debut after trialling impressively, beating home Ya Rite Darl on one of those occasions. “She’s actually shown a bit more than Ya Rite Darl all the way through. She has been trialling well. She’s got speed but sometimes that breed can make some mistakes.” “If she trots all the way she’s certainly got enough promise to be in the race and have a good chance.” Frazzled will be driven by Tim Williams. In race seven, the $110,000 Welcome Stakes the Dunns line up three runners of the seven horse field. Got The Chocolates ($1.90FF) opens up a warm favourite just ahead of the Mark and Nathan Purdon trained Rubira ($2.80FF) with arguably the draws setting the market tone. Got The Chocolates now begins from barrier one after a scratching, and Rubira from the outside of the gate in seven. “He’s come through that win super. He’s always shown a lot of raw ability and promise. He has a high cruising speed.” “I’d say we will use that draw if we can. He has speed and stamina.” Got The Chocolates will be driven by John Dunn. A gear malfunction hindered Bruntwood Brigade’s ($71.00FF) debut performance at Addington last week. Dunn suggests the Art Major gelding will benefit from further racing, and is one to follow going forward. “He was travelling okay last week until a spreader broke on him.” “He’s a decent prep behind all of the other two-year-olds and he has come a very long way in a very short time. He’s not quite up to the best ones yet, but he’s going to make a very nice horse.” Bruntwood Brigade will be driven by Gavin Smith. Captain Crunch gelding Malakai ($16.00FF) rounds out their chances and has come through his previous start well. “His forte is going to be his staying ability. He’s got a big long stride, but he just lacks a bit of sheer speed at this stage. But he’s definitely a good place chance and one to watch going forward this season.” Malakai will be driven by Tim Williams. The Dunn’s will also line up five other chances throughout the night at Addington, while also lining up Always B You in the Group 1 Magness Benrow Sires Stakes 3YO Fillies Championship, and Bounce N Beyond in the IRT NZ Sires Stakes 3YO Trotters Championship at Group 2 level at Alexandra Park in Auckland. Racing commences at Addington from 4:54pm and Alexandra Park from 5:32pm View the full article

Let go at odds of 16-1 with an educational debut run under his belt, ENDURING SPIRIT (c, 2, Tiz the Law–Life Starts, by Into Mischief) became the first winner for his freshman sire (by Constitution) with a front-running success in Thursday's second race from Churchill Downs. Seventh after showing some early dash in his Apr. 10 unveiling over a sloppy Keeneland main track, the $100,000 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga graduate got drier underfoot conditions this time around and was quickly into stride from gate two, opening up a clear advantage through the opening exchanges. Well in the hands of Reylu Gutierrez for the run around the turn, Enduring Spirit cut the corner just in advance of Conquering Cat (Game Winner), opened up into the final furlong and proved not for catching in graduating by about two lengths. Bob's Carrot (Daredevil) was third ahead of odds-on Empress Julia (Uncle Mo), who was away awkwardly from the inside gate and could make little impact late, finishing a distant fourth. Sales history: $75,000 Ylg '23 FTKFEB; $100,000 Ylg '23 FTSAUG. O-RT Racing Stable; B-Carolyn R Vogel (KY); T-Rafael Ramos. #3 Enduring Spirit goes gate-to-wire at 16/1 in R2 at Churchill Downs under Rey Gutierrez for trainer Rafael Ramos! This is the first winner for freshman sire Tiz the Law @coolmoreamerica! #TwinSpiresReplay pic.twitter.com/ZfBS4gxfJN — TwinSpires Racing (@TwinSpires) May 16, 2024 The post Enduring Spirit A First Winner For Tiz the Law at Churchill appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

One noticeable omission on Frankie Dettori's sterling and lengthy list of accomplishments is an American Triple Crown victory, but that could change in epic fashion May 18 at Pimlico Race Course.View the full article

Pat Day Mile Stakes (G2) winner and Preakness Stakes (G1) contender Seize the Grey is making Preakness dreams come true for some of his 2,570 MyRacehorse shareholders.View the full article

Baltimore, MD-All eyes turn to Baltimore this weekend where Pimlico features an eight-race graded showcase, beginning with Friday's GII George E. Mitchell Black-Eyed Susan S. card, featuring 3-year-old fillies. Installed the 5-2 morning line favorite for the nine-furlong test, Madaket Stables and Slam Dunk Racing's Corposo (Vino Rosso) ran an even race in the Apr. 6 Santa Anita Oaks, but could only finish third, beaten eighth lengths, by Nothing Like You (Malibu Moon). “I don't think she's going to cry about the distance too much, at least that's what her jocks are always telling me,” trainer Peter Eurton said. “From the time I've had with her, everything's been pretty straightforward with her. She's got a great mind. She's a solid filly, a good 1,100 pounds or better. Nothing seems to bother her at all. I've never really seen her sweat too much, either. It's good.” Several of the feature's contenders will attempt to improve on subpar performances last time out, including Aaron Sones and Julie Gilbert Lemon Muffin (Collected), the sole filly to have contested the GI Kentucky Oaks two weeks ago. Trained by D. Wayne Lukas, the GIII Honeybee S. winner will try to improve upon an eighth-place finish behind winner Thorpedo Anna (Fast Anna) in the Oaks. Lukas, who has had the most Black-Eyed Susan starters since 1976 with 18, is tied with former protégé and fellow Hall of Famer Todd Pletcher for the most wins with four. “She has her days when she's up and down and everything. On her best day, she's a very, very nice filly,” said Lukas, whose most recent winner of the race was with Serena's Song in 1995. “But she doesn't always show up every time, so we're hoping that we get one of those days when she does.” Also looking for some measure of redemption, Sunland Park Oaks scorer Recharge (Gun Runner) makes her first start since a fading fifth behind Thorpedo Anna in Oaklawn's GII Fantasy S. at Oaklawn Mar. 30. Trained by Steve Asmussen, the Winchell homebred won her first three starts, including an impressive nine-length victory in her Remington unveiling Dec. 14. Courtlandt Farms' Whocouldaskformo (Uncle Mo) will get an equipment change for her return. A $450,000 Keeneland September purchase, she finished fourth most recently in the Apr. 6 GIII Gazelle S. at Aqueduct, also going nine furlongs. “Johnny [Velazquez] rode her the last time and he said at the half-mile pole. we were right there and she just kind of got lost after that and finished fourth,” said Hall of Famer McGaughey, winner of the 1996 Black-Eyed Susan with Mesabi Maiden. “So we put the blinkers on her. She breezed a couple of times in them, and we'll see what happens. I hope it keeps her a little more focused and maybe a little more aggressive when the time comes.” Whocouldaskformo ran an even fifth in her prior start, the one-mile GII Davona Dale S. Mar. 2 at Gulfstream, which came three weeks after her runner-up finish in the Suncoast S. at Tampa Bay Downs. “I like that it's two turns going to a mile and an eighth,” McGaughey added. “I ran her a mile in the Davona Dale and it didn't work, so I was looking for a long race. That's why I sent her up for the Gazelle. The allowance races were only going a mile, and that's one turn at Aqueduct. I thought this would be a good spot, and I think it is a good spot. She's 6-1 on the morning line, so it isn't a bad spot.” Breaking from post 6, she will be ridden by Luis Saez. Friday's undercard is highlighted by a pair of Grade III tests–the Pimlico Special S. and the Miss Preakness S. The former is led, at least on paper, by morning line favorite Kingsbarns (Uncle Mo), winner of his two latest starts including the Apr. 20 GIII Ben Ali S. The $800,000 Fasig-Tipton juvenile purchase also won last term's GII Louisiana Derby. A seemingly more competitive affair, the Miss Preakness features Youalmosthadme (Oxbow), victorious in a pair of sprint stakes late last season. Tiring to third in her seasonal debut in the seven-panel GII Beaumont S. at Keeneland Apr. 7, the Brad Cox trainee cuts back to six panels here. Tyler Gaffalione returns to ride. The post Turning Lemons into Lemonade appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Point-to-pointer Sober Glory (Ire) (Mount Nelson {GB}) (lot 10) topped the Tattersalls Cheltenham May Sale on Thursday. The 4-year-old debut winner cost £110,000 and was purchased by the session's leading buyer Tom Malone. Consigned by Monbeg Stables, the gelding is related to Grade 1 hurdler Fingal Bay (Ire) (King's Theatre {Ire}) and Grade 3 chaser Oodachee (GB) (Marju {Ire}). The other lot to break six figures was American Jukebox (Ire) (Jukebox Jury {Ire}) (lot 22), also from Monbeg Stables. He was sold to Gordon Elliott Racing for £100,000. His dam won the G2 Pat Taaffe Handicap Chase at Punchestown and was placed in the G1 Irish Grand National Handicap Chase. A total of 26 lots sold for a gross of £1,231,000. The average was £47,346 and the median was £43,000. Tattersalls associate director Matt Prior said, “The May Sale has brought the 2023-24 Tattersalls Cheltenham sales year to a satisfactory conclusion. “The season has performed well and with 195 horses sold from 238 offered over the seven sales, we are delighted with the strong 82% clearance rate. Noticeably, the market has stepped back a level, but, positively, nice horses are being sold as is evidenced by our strong clearance rate. “We congratulate all our consignors on another successful winter and spring point-to-point season, despite the considerable challenges posed by the wet spring.” The post Sober Glory Tops Tattersalls Cheltenham appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Robby Albarado allows fans attending Preakness Stakes (G1) training May 16 a chance to get a picture of who he calls, "the people's champ," Kentucky Derby (G1) winner Mystik Dan.View the full article

Disarm, who last year ran fourth in the Kentucky Derby (G1) at Churchill Downs, finds an easier assignment at the Louisville, Ky., track for his 4-year-old debut May 18.View the full article

Baltimore, MD–The stage may have changed but the show remains the same. Two weeks ago, the Triple Crown train ran through Louisville, where all were treated to a sensory assault that can only be understood when experienced first-hand. With the tour moving on to Pimlico this week, there is an undeniable adjustment. It's something like comparing Taylor Swift to Courtney Love. No further explanation required. However, despite all of its shortcomings (and no, the elevator is still not working), Pimlico and the GI Preakness S. offer a charm that many other racetracks–many of them far flashier and newer–seem to lack. It's sometimes easy to forget that history can reside in the most obscure corner of any track. Case in point: a chance run-in with radio personality Steve Byk leads me to a concealed area behind the FanDuel TV set. Nestled in some weedy spot by the fence is a large wooden cross that reads 'Pimlico Barney (1960 – 1974).' According to legend (and to Steve Byk), Pimlico Barney was a dog that wandered into the track one day and was adopted by the stall man at the time, Harry Jeffra. Prior to his tenure on the racetrack, and his meeting with Barney, Jeffra made a name for himself in the ring, earning the 1937 bantamweight and 1940 featherweight championship titles en route to his induction into the Maryland Hall of Fame. Enter Barney. According to several accounts, Jeffra and Barney made the backstretch rounds every day, stopping periodically to oversee the property's network of time clocks in addition to checking for fire code infractions. According to published reports, Barney was known on occasion, put out cigarettes with paws (I'm just relaying published accounts, folks). The story goes that the little dog also had a penchant for 'singing', howling when the situation (including the Pimlico Fire Department's sirens) moved him. After 14 years of devoted service to Jeffra, Barney was put down due to old age. When the issue of where he was to be buried, it is suggested that Jeffra insisted the dog be buried on the backstretch because that was where he spent of most his life. C Bossinakis With Pimlico facing the prospect of complete demolition only a couple of years ago, the city of Baltimore and the state joined forces in an effort to save the aging racetrack and current plans call for the facility to undergo a complete overhaul over the next three years. With that in mind, I walked away from Barney's grave thinking that it's sometimes easier to focus on all the blemishes and yes, there are quite a lot of them right now. However, if one remains open and looks past the failing veneer, one is sure to catch a glimpse or two of the storied history of the place. While 'Old Hilltop' remains true to its name now (with the emphasis squarely on 'old'), the proposed rejuvenation should remind everyone why saving it was worth the effort. Pimlico Bouncing with Activity There can be little doubt that the announcement that early favorite Muth (Good Magic) would not contest Saturday's Preakness took the wind out of a great many sails. However, several of the remaining contenders–including Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan (Goldencents)–appear to offer enticing options as they hit the track on a sun-filled morning Thursday. Heading to the track shortly after 8:30a.m., the Kenny McPeek trainee jogged part way around Pimlico's track. Mystik Dan, who is the 8-5 favorite on the revised morning-line, was introduced to the saddling paddock before embarking on a light gallop under former jockey Robby Albarado. “He's doing great,” said McPeek, who arrived in Baltimore Wednesday afternoon. “He's a pretty easy-peasy colt. He eats well. He's a real quiet horse. I've used the terminology that he's an old soul. Nothing much fazes him at all, which makes our job really easy.” Looking ahead to race day, McPeek added, “We want a quiet day. We don't want anything complicated or any hoopla. We want to get him over there and give him his best chance. It's still not an easy race. There are no guarantees. It's a very humbling sport. Right now, we've got everything in line.” Imagination getting a bath Thursday morning | Sara Gordon Following his morning exertions, the unassuming bay returned as dry as when he first walked onto the track. In stark contrast, Bob Baffert's remaining half of the entry, Imagination (Into Mischief), bounced away from Pimlico's stakes barn under Humberto Gomez, snorting and dancing on his toes before returning a little more deflated, and a fair bit sweatier, than he appeared on departure. The white-haired maestro was reportedly set to arrive in Baltimore Friday. Lukas, McPeek Regale at the Alibi Breakfast Every year, the Alibi Breakfast offers connections and fans alike the chance to garner some insight into some of the characters who will be highlighting Saturday's second jewel in the Triple Crown. And when D. Wayne Lukas has a horse running at Pimlico, there is little one can do other than just sit back and enjoy the show when the Hall of Famer takes the stage. “I went to [McPeek's] office the other day. He was so proud. He had just finished a jigsaw puzzle,” Lukas chided. “He said, 'Wayne look at this! I finished this puzzle in two months, and it says right on the box–2 to 4 years.'” Lukas will try to collect his seventh Preakness with Just Steel (Justify) and recent GII Pat Day Mile winner Seize the Grey (Arrogate). After regaling the crowd with several new jokes, in addition to a few of his most well-versed jibes, Lukas summed up his latest Preakness experience. “It's a game of experience,” Lukas said. “You still have to have that experience of looking at these horses and reading them and knowing what to do. I feel like I haven't lost anything. I might be a little slower on the pony, but I'm still on that horse. I'm still doing the same thing, but I do it better than I used to.” Despite his recent flush of Classic success, McPeek still had some way to go to catch the 88-year-old horseman. However, despite the discrepancy, McPeek wasn't about to be outdone by the Hall of Fame trainer. “I finally did something Wayne Lukas hasn't done–the Oaks-Derby Double,” he laughed. “He's won four Derbys, six Preakness and four Belmonts, do you want to tell us?” McPeek said while looking in the direction of Lukas. On the opposite end of the spectrum, trainer Butch Reid Jr. was the essence of humility, offering shout outs to several of the individuals who offered him a helping hand throughout his lengthy career. Reid saddles GIII Wither S. winner Uncle Heavy (Social Inclusion), who is co-owned by Reid's older brother, Mark, a retired trainer and bloodstock agent, and the elder Reid's wife, Barbara, who bred the colt. The colt's name is Mark Reid's family nickname. The Pennsylvania bred represents the first Triple Crown entrant for the Reid brothers. “It's really been great,” Butch Reid said. “We've all been kind of in the business but in separate aspects of it, so for this to come together like this is really something s The post What’s Old Is New Again at Pimlico appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions. View the full article

Seize the Grey carries the dreams of about 2,570 shareholders that bought into the colt through MyRacehorse, a fractional ownership app that allows racing fans a taste at ownership for a much lower cost.View the full article