Camille Pissarro (Wootton Bassett) gave Ballydoyle a seamless result in a Gr1 Qatar Prix du Jockey Club that looked anything but predictable on paper, according to tdn.com. The 12-5 favourite delivered on expectations from the inside draw, sitting handy throughout and needing only to take the shortest route behind stablemate Trinity College. The latest in Ballydoyle’s deep pool of Wootton Bassett colts, Camille Pissarro became his sire’s second Classic winner of 2025 with a composed ride by Ryan Moore. The only moment of tension came in the final 300 metres, when Moore had to squeeze through a narrowing gap no wider than his mount. But Camille Pissarro, winner of the Gr1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at two, had conserved enough energy to pounce. He surged past Godolphin’s Cualificar, himself the winner of the Prix la Force and Prix de Guiche, to score by half a length. The Lope De Vega colt, out of Oaks heroine Qualify, ran a mighty race from gate 12, while Juddmonte’s Detain finished a close third, replicating the Wootton Bassett one-three seen in the G1 Poule d’Essai des Poulains. “He did everything right today and Aidan had him in a beautiful frame of mind,” said Moore. “Fair play to Christophe [Soumillon], he said he’d have no problem with the trip and he showed nice acceleration there. He put them away.” Camille Pissarro first made headlines when winning over six furlongs at Naas as a juvenile – a trademark move for Ballydoyle’s elite subsequent French Derby winners. That debut form now looks even more authoritative. Aidan O’Brien credited Christophe Soumillon, who had ridden Camille Pissarro in the Lagardere and Poulains, for encouraging the rise in distance. On this occasion, Soumillon rode Detain. “Christophe was delighted with him last time and immediately told us to run him in the Jockey-Club,” O’Brien said. “He’s a miler, but he stays 2000 metres and that’s exactly what you need to win the French Derby.” O’Brien described the colt as “a very important horse” in the aftermath. “He’s a perfect, big, powerful, black horse by Wootton Bassett and over time, he has toughened up,” he said. “All races are open to him, as a mile is no problem and there is the {Gr1] Eclipse…”
NEWInglis Invites Applications for 2025 Internships
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
One of Australian racing’s most sought-after thoroughbred industry entry points has opened for 2025, with applications now invited for the prestigious Inglis Internship program. The full-time, year-long role offers aspiring industry professionals a rare chance to immerse themselves across all areas of the Inglis business, from its historic bloodstock division to marketing, insurance, digital and rural property operations in both Sydney and Melbourne. Having operated since 1867, Inglis is recognised as a pillar of the thoroughbred auction landscape. Interns will work closely with senior staff and industry leaders, gaining a strong foundation in pedigree and conformation analysis – an essential component of the yearling selection process across Inglis’ flagship sales. While the majority of time will be spent in the bloodstock division, exposure to multiple departments and on-the-ground experience at sales and inspections will ensure a comprehensive industry grounding, according to inglis.com.au. The internship begins this coming Spring and spans 12 months, with the prospect of full-time employment at its conclusion. Applicants must be over 20, hold a valid driver’s licence, and be a resident of Australia or New Zealand. Inglis Bloodstock CEO Sebastian Hutch described the internship as a world-class launchpad for emerging talent and encouraged individuals from all backgrounds to apply. “Obviously there’s the Godolphin Flying Start Program, the Silverdale Academy, TBA Fast Track Program etc – these are all quality avenues for young people to enter the racing industry,” Hutch said. “The Inglis Internship Program is yet another way they can realise their dreams and join the industry we all love so much.” Hutch added that past interns have gone on to successful careers, naming alumni such as James Price, Peter Twomey, James Mitchell and current bloodstock team member Will Gardner as proof of the program’s long-term value. “We are very open-minded as to who a successful candidate might be or where they might come from,” he said. “Whether already involved in the industry, studying equine sciences, or simply a passionate racing fan ready to take the next step, this is a paid opportunity to get started.” Hutch highlighted the program’s value not only in terms of career progression, but also workplace culture. “We have such a dynamic and enthusiastic team at Inglis – it’s a great environment to be part of, whether it’s a sale day or office day or an inspection or a race meeting,” he said. “I can’t think of another organisation that offers the same depth and breadth of exposure to the racing industry.” Applications, including a CV with references and a cover letter explaining suitability for the role, must be submitted to internship@inglis.com.au by 5pm Monday, June 30.
NEWGrunt Half Sister Enhances Stakes Potential
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
Trelawney Stud filly Madiyya (NZ) (Super Seth) wrapped up her debut campaign in style, notching a third consecutive win and extending her growing reputation with a determined performance over 1600m in Saturday’s $150,000 Rod Griffiths Handicap at Caulfield. Trained by Ben, Will and JD Hayes, Madiyya has been a model of consistency across her four autumn starts, stated a racingnews.co.nz report. After finishing runner-up on debut over 1200m at Pakenham in late March, she broke through in a 1400m maiden at Sale on April 20, followed by a 1400m 3YO handicap win at Caulfield before stepping up to a mile on Saturday. Drawn wide in a 10-runner field, Madiyya settled at the rear under Luke Currie before making a sweeping move around the field approaching the turn. She struck the front with just over 100m to run and had enough in reserve to hold off a late lunge from I Only Wish (Puissance De Lune), scoring by a neck. Currie was impressed with her effort despite the tough run: “She was actually a bit better out of the gates today than she was last time. The way she raced today, she would have landed a lot closer if she’d drawn better. It meant we had to loop the field off a soft tempo, so it was a good effort from where we were.” He added, “She was brilliant last time and was probably a bit more tradesmanlike today, but we had enough at the line to get the win without being too hard on her. She’s going to furnish with a bit more time. She’s certainly heading the right way.” A half-sister to Group 1-winning stallion Grunt (NZ) and Group 2 winner Zayydani (NZ), Madiyya has already delivered significant returns with three wins and a second from four starts, earning $187,050 for owners Brent and Cherry Taylor. She hails from a family that has been instrumental to the Lindsay Park stable, particularly Zayydani, who was the first stakes winner for the training partnership after David Hayes relocated to Hong Kong. Ben Hayes said the team is eyeing black type next prep. “She’s done a great job to win three in a row. She produced a long, sustained run and has ticked off the mile. She’s not a big filly and has more growing to do, but she’s tough and progressive. We might look at something Zayydani won – maybe the Matriarch or Ballarat Cup – in the spring."
Grunt (pictured) is a half-brother to Madiyya (pic: Mark Gatt)
NEWDiwali Wins LR Sandown Cup
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
Track: Sandown-Lakeside
Race: $175,000 LR Sandown Cup (3200m)
Winner: 4YO gelding Diwali (Tavistock-Belongs In Lights, by Belong To Me)
Placings: 7YO gelding Through Irish Eyes & 4YO mare Alma Rise
Winning Sire: Tavistock (Montjeu-Upstage, by Quest for Fame)
Stud Farm: Cambridge Stud
Trainer: Gavin Bedggood
Jockey: J Bowditch
Race record: 4 wins and 3 placings from 15 starts for $197,060 in earnings
Sales Info: N/A
NEWTavistock Son Gets the Jump on Rivals
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
Diwali, a 4YO stayer with jumping credentials, turned heads at Sandown on Sunday with a determined win in the Listed Sandown Cup (3200m), outstaying the more fancied Through Irish Eyes and Alma Rise in a slowly run affair that played to his strengths. Prepared by former jumps jockey Gavin Bedggood, Diwali capitalised on the lack of early tempo and found plenty late to cause a minor upset, reports racingnews.co.nz. Bedggood is no stranger to success in long-distance events, having piloted Mazzacano to dual Australian Steeplechase victories and also winning on Vindicating in 2011. “He presented well, he'd (Diwali) been running well... and the race was there,” Bedggood said. Although Diwali was untested at the trip, Bedggood believed a soft run and the horse’s freshness could help bridge the gap in experience. “We thought it was probably going to end up like it was, horses from the Andrew Ramsden, a few jumpers… we were untried at the distance range but we thought with the right run in transit it should work well for him." Having claimed a 2400m Benchmark 58 at Moe three starts ago and placing over the same distance at Sandown in Benchmark 70 company more recently, Diwali's lead-up form didn’t scream ‘black type winner’ – but he’d been working well. “We came here today with reasonable confidence, obviously a horse with a low benchmark rating but on fresh legs I suppose,” Bedggood added. He flagged the Deane Lester Flemington Cup (2800m) on July 19 as a potential target. “We've got six weeks, we’ll probably send him to the beach tomorrow and give him a week to freshen up a little bit... maybe look for a 2500m run at Flemington in between time, we might get three weeks, three weeks into that race and use it as our final.” Jockey Joe Bowditch, who partnered Diwali to a Benchmark 58 win at Moe, had full confidence in Bedggood’s placement. “Can’t this bloke train a racehorse? Never put anything past Gavin,” he said. Reflecting on the race, Bowditch said the tempo suited them perfectly. “Once we came past the winning post (the first time) the anchor went out... I was quite glad to see Linda (Meech) take off... I just kept letting him flow and he was too good.” Bowditch admitted to some concern about hitting the front too early but praised Diwali’s ability to maintain momentum across the staying test.
NEWGiga Kick Stradbroke Back Up is Unlikely
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
A delayed feature race won’t disrupt Giga Kick’s path to the Gr1 Kingsford-Smith Cup, with trainer Clayton Douglas confirming the top-class sprinter will have a quiet gallop during the week before lining up at Eagle Farm this Saturday. According to racing.com, the rescheduling follows last weekend’s abandonment of the final four races due to relentless rain and poor visibility, which also forced the relocation of three key Group races, including the Kingsford-Smith and Queensland Derby. “It doesn’t really change too much for us. It’s okay,” Douglas said, noting the gelding had been ready to fire and would have handled the original heavy track conditions without issue. Douglas remains confident in Giga Kick’s fitness, despite the shift extending the gap between runs from three to four weeks following his third placing in the Gr1 The Goodwood. “He’ll just keep ticking over. He’ll have a gallop on Tuesday or Wednesday and he’ll be fine,” he said. “He ran in the Challenge Stakes first-up and then was a month between runs going into the TJ Smith on a Heavy 9 – and he just got beaten – so he’s done it before and performed well.” Giga Kick, a proven performer on rain-affected ground, has impressed his trainer with how well he’s come through his preparation. “He’s in great order,” Douglas added. “It’s just a matter of ticking him over and getting him there in good shape on Saturday.” Looking ahead, however, Douglas has virtually ruled out a quick back-up into the Stradbroke Handicap on June 14, a week after the Kingsford-Smith. “That’s probably diminished again even more now,” he said of the possibility. “The 58.5kg with a seven-day turnaround, I don’t know whether I would be doing that to him. If the track’s going to be soft again this week, I won’t be buttering him up in the Stradbroke.” Instead, the likelihood is Giga Kick will head for a spell after this weekend’s feature. Despite the change of plans, Douglas expressed no frustration about last Saturday’s washout. “You could tell the track was so deteriorated it was hard to suggest that many horses were probably going to be getting through that ground and, obviously, with the visibility, it was probably inevitable that they were going to have to be called off,” he said. “Hopefully it’s a bit more of a fairer racing surface this time.”
Cool Aza Beel Son Favourite for JJ Atkins
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
Fast becoming one of the pin-up juveniles of the latter part of the season, Cool Archie thrust himself to the top of J.J. Atkins betting with an emphatic win in Saturday's Gr2 BRC Sires' Produce Stakes at Eagle Farm, solidifying his position as Queensland's standout 2YO this winter. According to racing.com, already a Group 2 winner in the Spirit of Boom Classic, the Chris and Corey Munce-trained gelding proved a cut above in testing conditions, surging past rivals in the final stages to post his fourth consecutive victory. Sent out at $6.50, Cool Archie settled further back than usual but thrived in the wet under a confident Martin Harley ride. The early tempo was set by Farnicle and Brave Design, who shared the lead before facing pressure on the turn, as $3.90 favourite Gallo Nero loomed large. Just when the leading pair looked to have fended off challengers, Cool Archie stormed into contention and quickly put the result beyond doubt. "What an amazing run. He's never been that far back, I think, in his career," Corey Munce said. "We were confident coming in today and taking the blinkers off was probably the key there. That was all due to Martin, he was spot on. He was 110 percent right." The win significantly impacted the J.J. Atkins market, with Cool Archie now a $5 second elect behind the absent Highvol, who has been spelled, while Gallo Nero drifted to $13. Munce believes the 1400m performance strongly hints that a mile will be well within reach for the son of Newhaven Park Stud's exciting young stallion Cool Aza Beel, a Group 1-winning son of Savabeel.. "He relished the wet track and 1400. On that you have to say that he runs a mile." Saturday's feature ended up being the final event of the day after a late downpour forced officials to abandon the remainder of the program due to visibility concerns. The Guineas itself was delayed when Prince Tycoon, an $8.50 chance from the Busuttin and Young yard, broke through the gates and was scratched after dislodging his jockey. None of that, however, detracted from Cool Archie's coming-of-age moment, with the Munce camp now justifiably eyeing Group 1 glory with their rising star.
Redundant City Racecaller Lands on His Feet
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
After more than two decades in racing media, Josh Fleming is returning to his grassroots with a new leadership role at the Toowoomba Turf Club, reprts racingqueensland.com.au. Appointed as the Club's Racing & Operations Manager, Fleming will commence duties on June 10, marking a homecoming of sorts for one of the most familiar voices in Australian racing. Known for his early start in the industry – calling his first race at 14 and going full-time by 2003 – Fleming now steps behind the scenes to help shape the future of one of Queensland's busiest and most vital racing hubs. Toowoomba Turf Club is more than a racing venue. With over 700 horses in work each month, it's Queensland's largest regional training centre and a cornerstone of the state's thoroughbred industry. From the iconic Weetwood to the new King of the Mountain feature, the Club plays a pivotal role in talent development, regional employment, and industry sustainability across the Darling Downs. "Josh's depth of experience, his understanding of racing and the importance of country racing, makes him a perfect match for the role," said Club CEO Grant Sheather, who welcomed Fleming's arrival as the start of an exciting chapter. "It's critical we have strong leadership to keep operations running at the highest standard, and Josh will no doubt help us deliver exactly that." Fleming, who spent many years with Sky Racing, expressed his enthusiasm at the opportunity to stay close to the sport he loves while contributing in a new capacity. "When the opportunity came up, it just felt right," he said. "I'm very grateful for the chance to stay involved in racing after a great career with Sky Racing, to be based in Toowoomba, and to work closely with the trainers and team at such an important Club for regional Queensland." With regular race meetings that attract participants and fans from across the region, the Club prides itself on delivering a seamless and exciting experience for all involved – something Fleming is now eager to help lead from the inside. Club Chairman Jason Ward echoed that excitement, noting Fleming's appointment is a win not only for the Turf Club but for the wider community. "He brings with him a wealth of experience and genuine passion for the sport, which will only strengthen our race day operations and our standing within the region and the Queensland racing industry," Ward said. "The Toowoomba Turf Club remains committed to raising the bar in regional racing, celebrating its proud history, and supporting the local community."
Rosehill Double Highlights Goodwood Yearlings
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
While selling at all the major yearling sales each year, Kerrie Tibbey's Goodwood Farm always presents small, but select drafts of quality which came to light last Saturday with a double for their yearling graduates at Rosehill Gardens. Trained by Joe Pride for Proven Thoroughbreds, 3YO gelding King's Secret (Shalaa), a half-brother to Group 1 winner and $11.9m earner Private Eye (Al Mager), continued his solid form by taking his record to two wins and three placed efforts from five starts, before 4YO gelding Edited By (Written Tycoon) recorded his seventh career win from just 20 starts when winning the very next race on the card. With the Magic Millions National Yearling Sale the final yearling sale of the year held this Monday and Tuesday, it is well worth taking note of Goodwood Farm's draft of seven lots. The farm will offer three fillies, two from the first crop of Coolmore's speedy Acrobat (Fastnet Rock) including Lot 1434 from the family of Group 1 winners Snippets, King's Legacy and Oohood, while another filly, Lot 1295 is a daughter of increasingly influential Yarraman Park stallion Hellbent out of a half-sister to the Group 2-winning, Group 1-fourth placed Savanna Amour from the family of Golden Slipper winner and sire Marauding. Consigned colts by Harry Angel, Castelvecchio and Churchill are sure to appeal, with all three sires having produced Group 1 winners. Lot 1288 is a Harry Angel colt out of the Shamardal mare Sestiere whose four to race are all winners, while Lot 1346 is the son of Arrowfield Stud's boom sire Castelvecchio from the family of Gr1 Emirates Stakes winner Desert Eagle – Grand delight (HK). The final two colts of the draft, Lot 1371 by St Mark's Basilica and Lot 1394 by Churchill are from the same family of stakes winners Calchris, Calcatta, Tanker and Lady Naturaliste.
Private Eye (right) is a half to King's Secret (pic: Steve Hart)
Significant New Weanlings Added to NZB Sale
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
Buyers at the upcoming National Weanling Sale at Karaka will have even more to choose from, with NZB confirming the addition of ten supplementary weanlings to the 2025 catalogue. Scheduled for Thursday, 26 June, the sale originally featured 134 lots, but the new entries – labelled Lots 135 to 144 – bring extra depth to an already impressive offering. A standout among the late entries is the contingent from Waikato Stud, responsible for producing recent Gr2 Challenge Stakes winner Jedibeel (NZ), a graduate of this very sale. Seven of the ten new lots are from Waikato Stud, and principal Mark Chittick is optimistic about what's on offer. "We were a little late getting organised, but what we're offering at this Weanling Sale indicates the strength of what we've got in store for the Karaka yearling sales," Chittick said. He added, "We believe we've got our strongest crop of weanlings on the ground, quality and quantity-wise, that we've had in a long time." New faces will also be on hand, with Riverrock Farm making their debut appearance at the Weanling Sale. Their draft includes Lot 143, the first foal of Neon Moon (by Exosphere), by Turn Me Loose, and Lot 144, a colt by Circus Maximus. Little Avondale Stud has also added an extra filly to its existing nine-lot draft – Lot 135, by Tivaci out of Lavita Vishi (NZ) (Savabeel). "The addition of these weanlings with some outstanding pedigrees, commercial sires and from genuine drafts adds another boost to this Sale," NZB Bloodstock Sales Manager Kane Jones noted. "The pinhookers will certainly want to take note, as too the trainers looking for a Karaka Millions eligible horse." In preparation for the sale, on-farm parades will be held from 4 to 6 June. Prospective buyers are welcome to attend, with NZB staff and local agents available for pre-sale inspections if required. All weanlings are eligible for nomination to the lucrative Karaka Millions Series, including the $1m TAB Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m), $1.5m TAB Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m), and the $1m NZB Mega Maiden Bonus Series. Supplementary catalogues will be available on sale day or can be downloaded, while the full catalogue, including the new entries, is viewable online or via the Equineline app.
Ka Ying Rising's Absence Perfect for Express
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
Invariably forced to play bridesmaid, understudy Helios Express finally stepped out of Ka Ying Rising's shadow with a thrilling breakthrough in Saturday's Gr3 Sha Tin Vase (1200m), storming home from the rear to nab Invincible Sage in a desperate finish. According to racingnews.hkjc.com, it was a long-awaited moment for the John Size-trained gelding, who had placed in his previous seven starts, all behind the world's top sprinter, including five runner-up efforts. Sent out the $2.05 favourite, Helios Express left it late under Hugh Bowman, who had him stone last at the 200m before unleashing a trademark burst. As Ben Thompson surged clear on the $20 outsider Invincible Sage, it looked like another near-miss was looming, but Helios Express lunged right on the line to deny him by a short head. "Only just," Bowman said. "I've had a lot to do with the second horse, Invincible Sage, and they both got the soft track conditions which suited both horses and you've seen them both run to their premium." The rider also acknowledged the tactical challenge, adding, "My horse had to overcome the [on-speed] bias. I knew that going out but I was reluctant to change [Helios Express'] pattern because with the handicap, I thought he was well in [at the weights]." It was fitting reward for persistence. "He thoroughly deserved it," Bowman said. "He's been chasing the champ all season and with his absence, he was the number one seed and he came out in front." Helios Express, a star over 1800m as last year's Classic Mile and Classic Cup winner, has been reinvented as a sprinter this season. He was runner-up to Ka Ying Rising in three Group 1 contests – the Hong Kong Sprint (1200m), Centenary Sprint Cup (1,00m), and Queen's Silver Jubilee Cup (1400m). Size, who last won the Sha Tin Vase with Courier Wonder in 2021, praised his gelding's effort: "He certainly deserves this win. He's tried very hard all season to win a decent race and finally he got it done. He found a race that was suitable for him." Punters latched onto Patch Of Theta late, with the gelding backed from $9.1 into $3.7, and he ran on stoutly from second last to grab third, almost two lengths behind Helios Express. Multiple Gr1 winner Lucky Sweynesse, conceding weight all around, finished fourth. Size hinted Helios Express might go around once more this season, with the Gr3 Premier Cup (1400m) on June 22 on the radar.
Helios Express broke his long string of outs (pic: hkjc.com)
Incoming BHA Chair Throws Doubt into Role
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
According to theguardian.com, British racing was left in limbo on Friday as the British Horseracing Authority confirmed a surprise delay to the start date of its incoming chair, Lord Charles Allen. Scheduled to begin his tenure on June 2, Allen has opted to postpone his official arrival to continue stakeholder meetings in an effort to "better inform his vision for the sport." No new date has been set. The BHA, in a brief statement, noted that Allen – appointed last November – has undertaken a series of consultations across the industry. "The BHA can today confirm that Lord Allen will not now start on June 2 as he wishes to continue meeting stakeholders to better inform his vision for the sport and he looks forward to starting his new role once these have concluded." Allen brings to the role a notable corporate background, having held executive roles with Granada TV, EMI, Virgin Media, and Endemol, and was part of the team that helped secure the 2012 London Olympics and previously chaired the 2002 Manchester Commonwealth Games. His appointment was hailed as a safe and credible choice, with David Jones, chair of the BHA's Nominations Committee, describing him as "a candidate whose record speaks for itself." However, questions have lingered over Allen's racing credentials. Ralph Beckett, a former president of the National Trainers' Federation, voiced concern during the NTF's annual meeting in March, saying Allen's lack of a racing background meant he wouldn't "grasp hold of the role straight away," warning that "it takes time in the role and we don't have time." That sentiment reflects deeper frustrations within the industry, particularly among trainers and owners represented by the Thoroughbred Group, who have long argued that racecourses wield too much power and that returns to participants via prizemoney remain insufficient. The timing of Allen's deferment has sparked speculation that he may be absorbing some of the scepticism voiced by figures like Beckett. It also casts fresh doubt over the BHA's leadership transition during a sensitive time for governance in the sport. The 2022 restructuring of British racing's decision-making framework was designed to rebalance power in favour of the BHA, but persistent doubts remain about whether racecourses are fulfilling their obligations to the broader ecosystem. With stakeholders still uneasy and expectations for reform high, Allen's delayed start risks reinforcing concerns that the role may prove more fractious and thankless than anticipated. Whether his extended listening tour results in a stronger mandate or a quiet withdrawal remains to be seen.
Niance Shrugs Off Unexplained Head Injury
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
After spending months recovering from a bizarre and initially unexplained head injury, talented mare Niance returned in commanding fashion at Caulfield on Saturday, cruising to a Listed Bel Esprit Stakes (1200m) victory that signalled she's lost none of her spark – or speed. The Grahame Begg-trained 4YO had been sidelined from an Oakleigh Plate preparation when stable staff discovered swelling in her skull, according to nztm.nz. A later diagnosis revealed a cracked skull with infected bone fragments, the origin of which remains a mystery. "There wasn't any sign of head trauma or anything, we were a bit miffed what happened to her," Begg said. "She cracked her skull and had fragments taken out. Once we got all that cleaned up and looked after her very well … she's bounced through it and onwards and upwards." The recovery was as impressive as her return. Sent around as favourite, Niance settled wide under Daniel Moor, found a smooth rhythm, and quickly surged clear in the straight to defeat the race-fit Cleo Cat and Aviatress. "She's a gun," Begg said. "Never knows how to run a bad race." Moor was a late call-up for the ride but made the most of the opportunity. "She's not a huge horse but she's got a great length of stride. In a matter of two strides we'd gone from being two lengths off them to right at them," he said. "I just wanted to give her that balanced up set up to let rip." Begg now faces a decision on Niance's next step. While a Group 2 race in Queensland is on the radar, the trainer indicated that the Group 3 The Heath 1100 at Caulfield in August might be a more strategic lead-in towards spring, where Group 1 targets await. "I'm sure there's better things in store for her," Begg added. "She was in a good rhythm all the way through … she's got a great will to win this mare." With seven wins from 11 starts – three of them at stakes level – Niance has proven both her talent and resilience. "To be able to bounce back and come through that (injury) … she hasn't missed a beat," Begg said. "She gave us all the indication she prepped up really well for today, it was the ideal race for her. She's done a good job to come back and do what she has done today."
Niance is back in the zone (pic: George Sal Racing Photos)
Revamped Belmont Park to Stage Breeders' Cup
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
A cinematic catchphrase helped secure horse racing's biggest stage for New York in 2027, reports bloodhorse.com. Breeders' Cup CEO Drew Fleming leaned into the "Field of Dreams" mantra two years ago when he wrote to the New York Racing Association and Governor Kathy Hochul: if you rebuild Belmont Park, the Breeders' Cup will come. On May 28, that promise became reality, with officials announcing that Belmont Park will host the 2027 Breeders' Cup World Championships—the first since 2005. "If you build it, we will come," Fleming said in Manhattan. "And today I am honored to remain true to our word and bring the Breeders' Cup World Championships back to the Big Apple in 2027, where we will welcome fans from around the globe to a new era of New York racing at a beautiful new Belmont Park." The 2027 return will follow a 2026 staging at Keeneland, scheduled for October 30-31. Belmont's $455 million redevelopment—funded through a state loan—is expected to be completed by September 2026. It will mark the fifth time Belmont has hosted the Championships and the sixth overall for NYRA tracks, with Aqueduct having done so in 1985. NYRA chairman Marc Holliday said the redevelopment was designed to be transformational. "Our goal was to build something new and exciting," he explained. "We set out to build something compelling and fresh and create a new standard for racing entertainment to appeal to a generation of new fans." Hochul echoed those sentiments, calling the new Belmont "bold and audacious" and praising Holliday's vision. "You had me at hello," she said. Fleming highlighted the significance of bringing the Breeders' Cup back to New York: "The New York marketplace loves horse racing, and our mission is to put on two of the best days of racing and also grow the sport." The revamped Belmont will feature a new configuration for 1¼-mile races like the Gr1 Classic, eliminating the old chute turn and making for a smoother run to the backstretch. Meanwhile, Keeneland, which last hosted in 2022, will unveil a new $100 million paddock building ahead of its 2026 hosting. "Our companies are very like-minded," said Keeneland's Shannon Arvin. "We're designed to perpetuate the very best in racing and do what's good for the horse." With Del Mar set to host again this year from October 31–November 1, the Breeders' Cup continues to alternate between premier venues. Fleming said the rotation, including Santa Anita, Del Mar, Keeneland, Belmont, and potentially Churchill Downs again, is a hallmark of the brand's strength. "The best part of the Breeders' Cup is that we rotate venues," he said. "It's a really great opportunity… to continue to rotate to all these fantastic spots."
Persistent Mare Pins Ears Back in Stakes Win
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
A bold front-running display at Wanganui delivered a landmark result for Ears Back and trainer John Blackadder, who celebrated their first stakes success in Saturday's Listed AGC Training Stakes (1600m). The durable 6YO mare has often found herself on the wrong end of luck, but this time everything aligned for a commanding performance that left no room for misfortune, according to loveracing.nz. Previously a hard-luck story in multiple black-type attempts – including a closing fifth in the Rangitikei Cup at Trentham on May 17 – Ears Back turned the tables in emphatic fashion. Mereana Hudson, in terrific form, took the reins and executed the plan perfectly. Jumping swiftly from barrier four, the daughter of Jakkalberry rolled to the front, briefly ceded the lead to Bradman mid-race, then reclaimed control well before the final turn. With 700m to run, Hudson asked for more, and Ears Back surged clear. Despite late challenges, notably from last year's winner Belardo Boy, the mare held firm to win by a length and three-quarters, with Bradman finishing two lengths further behind in third. Saturday's result lifts Ears Back's career record to eight wins and six placings from 37 starts, with earnings now topping $285,000. "That's my first black-type win and I'm absolutely thrilled," Blackadder said. "It's great for the horse, great for her owners and also great for Mereana Hudson, who gave her a perfect ride today. The plan came off. It's so satisfying. She was unlucky in that first run up north at Trentham. She hit a wet patch and lost momentum, but still wasn't far away. To get the stakes win today, our second target on the trip, is a real thrill." The weight-for-age contest marked the final run of the season for Ears Back, capping a rewarding campaign that netted two wins, three placings and more than $130,000 in prizemoney. With no suitable options in the immediate future, she'll now enjoy a deserved winter break. "She's had a pretty fair season," Blackadder said. "She can come home now and go out for a nice winter spell. Then we'll bring her back into work and get her ready for some spring racing in Canterbury. She's done a very good job this season and is heading out on a high."
Luck was on Ears Back's side (pic: Race Images Peter Rubery)
Stable Says Brisbane Cup Next for Campaldino
Weekend, 2nd June 2025
Campaldino's staying potential was put to the test at Eagle Farm on Saturday, and the emerging Kiwi-bred gelding answered emphatically with his third straight win – this time at Group level. Stepping up sharply in class, the son of Ghibellines handled the rise with poise and power to claim the $200,000 Gr3 Living Turf Queen Elizabeth II Cup (2400m), stamping himself as a stayer to watch this winter, reports NZ Racing Desk. Trained by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, the lightly raced 4YO had earned his Brisbane trip with victories in the Orange Cup (2100m) and a Randwick Kensington Benchmark 78 over 2400m. Sent out a $7.50 shot in a competitive 16-runner field, Campaldino jumped from a wide gate but was expertly positioned outside the leader Dark Destroyer by jockey Tim Clark. Tracking smoothly in the Heavy8 going, he loomed ominously at the turn and took control early in the straight. Etna Rosso and Nikau Spur attempted to challenge, but Campaldino was too strong, surging clear to win by a length and three-quarters. "He made a really big leap there, coming from midweeks," Clark said. "The horse has been going so well that we were confident he would take that step. He's just been a different horse since Gai and Adrian took the blinkers off him... it was a really dominant performance." Bott confirmed the Gr2 Brisbane Cup (3200m) on June 14 is now firmly on the radar. "I think we'll have to," he said. "He's progressive and relished those conditions. There's more upside and while he's in this form, we want to take advantage." Bred by the Ricky & Anna Rhodes Partnership, Campaldino is by White Robe Lodge stallion Ghibellines out of the Shocking mare Zuzana. He began his career in New Zealand with Cody Cole, where he won twice in four starts before being purchased privately by Rob Waterhouse. Representing the Darby Racing syndicate in Australia, Campaldino has returned strong dividends with five wins and four placings from 13 career outings, accumulating over $268,000 in prizemoney. Since crossing the Tasman, he's compiled a smart record of three wins, three seconds, a third and two fifths from nine runs, building momentum with each start. If Saturday's performance is anything to go by, there's every reason to believe the best is still ahead.
