On Tuesday afternoon, Tim Hale SC, chairman of the Australian Turf Club (ATC) disseminated an open letter to members following a short term suspension of Racing NSW’s attempts to install an administrator, and a return to court on Thursday. Here, in its entirety, is what the letter contained:
Dear Members, I write to provide an important update and context following yesterday’s announcement by Racing NSW that it has appointed an administrator to manage the affairs of the Australian Turf Club. The Supreme Court of NSW today suspended the appointment of the admininstrator until 18 December, 2025 when the matter is back before court. The ATC Board does not accept that Racing NSW possesses the legal authority to remove the duly elected directors of the Club or to appoint an administrator in their place. Accordingly, the Board has initiated urgent proceedings in the Supreme Court seeking an injunction while the Court decides if Racing NSW has the lawful authority to undertake this action, and whether the process leading to the decision was proper. The reasons we are taking this action are clear and compelling. The Australian Turf Club is financially strong and operationally stable. As of today, the Club holds approximately $29 million in cash and continues to meet all financial obligations as they fall due. Our balance sheet is supported by more than $400 million in land and property assets, including strategically significant holdings at Canterbury and Camellia, both of which have substantial long term value, particularly with appropriate rezoning approvals. It is also important for Members to be aware that Racing NSW currently owes the Australian Turf Club $1,208,218.20 in outstanding payments, of which $799,467.70 is more than 120 days overdue. This amount remains a receivable of the Club. Beyond these significant cash holdings and assets, the Club is actively pursuing several commercial contracts and partnership opportunities. These initiatives have been thwarted as a direct result of restrictions imposed by Racing NSW during the show cause process. Notwithstanding, the Board continues to progress commercial efficiencies, new revenue initiatives, and cost reduction measures to further strengthen the ATC’s financial performance. We are also engaged in constructive, positive refinancing discussions with the Commonwealth Bank regarding our existing debt facility. The Board sought Racing NSW’s approval to appoint an interim Member elected director to fill a current vacancy, ensuring strong Member representation during this period. That approval has not been granted. Throughout the show cause process, the ATC engaged openly, constructively, and in good faith. We provided detailed written submissions, extensive financial and strategic material, and independent expert advice addressing each issue raised by Racing NSW. The Board unequivocally rejects any suggestion that it has failed to develop or articulate a coherent and credible strategy for the Club’s future. The Board is firmly committed to defending the independence of the Australian Turf Club. The Australian Turf Club exists for its Members. Your Membership rights, voting entitlements, and voice in the future direction of the Club are fundamental. The Board is acutely conscious of the trust Members place in it and is acting to protect that trust, your rights, and the long term integrity of the Club. The Board is standing up for the Club on behalf of its Members. We also want to reassure Members that their day to day experience with the Club will not change. Membership access, race meetings, events, and hospitality across our venues will continue as normal. Our management and staff remain focused on delivering the racing, facilities, and experiences that members expect and deserve. The imposition of administration would strip Members of their democratic rights and place control of the Club in the hands of external parties. The Board does not believe this outcome is justified, necessary, or in the long term interests of Sydney racing or the broader New South Wales racing industry. As this matter is now before the Court, the Board is constrained from making further detailed comment at this time. Members will be kept informed as the legal process progresses. On behalf of the Board, I thank you for your continued support and confidence in your Club.
NEWKiwi Christmas for Bedggood and Kingswood
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
A Boxing Day assignment at Ellerslie awaits Kingswood, whose trainer Gavin Bedggood is eyeing a potential Group 1 breakthrough that could help shape the stallion prospects of the British-bred entire. According to loveracing.nz, the Cranbourne-based horseman will spend Christmas in New Zealand, hoping a strong showing in the Gr1 Cambridge Stud Zabeel Classic will lay the groundwork for a future beyond racing.m Foaled by multiple stakes winner All At Sea, and by the ill-fated producing sire Roaring Lion, Kingswood carries a pedigree Bedggood believes may yet hold commercial value on the other side of the Tasman. The six-year-old is also a half-brother to dual Group 1 winner Eldar Eldarov, a Champion European stayer in his three-year-old season. “He is a stallion and he’s got a great pedigree,” Bedggood said. “He’s probably not commercial in Australia, but if he can win a couple of good races over there [in New Zealand], he might find a future home when he’s finished.” Imported from Ireland after placing in the Gr3 Gallinule Stakes, Kingswood arrived in Australia last year and initially raced under Maddie Raymond before Bedggood took over. He struck immediate form last spring, winning his first two starts for the new stable, including the Gr3 Coongy Cup at Caulfield, before an enforced layoff following surgery. A promising autumn return was paused when early work revealed discomfort. “We sent him off for an MRI and they found the very beginning of a hairline fracture,” Bedggood explained. “They put a screw in and he hasn’t had an unsound day since.” Resuming with a runner-up finish to subsequent Gr1 performer Golden Path at Flemington, Kingswood returned on Melbourne Cup Day to claim the Listed Kirin Ichiban Plate, again at headquarters. His latest start saw him finish fourth in the Ballarat Cup on ground the trainer described as too rain-affected. “He’s a little bit of a Goldilocks,” Bedggood said. “He doesn’t want concrete, and Ballarat was too wet.” The journey to Ellerslie holds no fear. Although this will be his first time campaigning a horse in New Zealand, Bedggood has ridden at Ellerslie as a jumps jockey and believes Kingswood’s experience racing right-handed in Ireland and Sydney will serve him well. He’ll reunite with the gelding in Auckland on Sunday after flying out Saturday evening, and will base himself at Pukekohe for the week. Plans beyond Boxing Day remain fluid, but there’s a chance Kingswood could stay on should he perform to expectation. “We’ll reassess after this one,” Bedggood said, pointing to the Gr1 Herbie Dyke in February as a potential follow-up.
Kingswood will run on Boxing Day (pic: George Sal Racing Photos)
NEWMagic Support for Qld ATA Rising Star Award
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
A major incentive has been launched to spotlight Queensland’s next wave of training talent, with the Queensland branch of the Australian Trainers Association teaming up with Magic Millions to establish the inaugural ATA Rising Star award. Open exclusively to trainers aged 35 and under, according to racingqueensland.com.au, the initiative will run throughout the Summer Carnival and culminate in a lucrative reward package. The top-performing trainer in this demographic will earn a $10,000 sales credit redeemable at the 2026 Magic Millions Gold Coast March Yearling Sale, along with a fully catered table for ten at the sale event. Designed to encourage and celebrate youth in the industry, the prize highlights the depth of emerging talent across the Sunshine State’s training ranks. Queensland ATA Executive Richard Andrews described the moment as timely recognition. “The training ranks in Queensland [have] never looked stronger,” he said. “This includes an exciting list of young up-and-coming trainers, who either train on their own or are in partnerships with family members – including some of the state’s leading mentors like recent Pat Duff Trophy winner Barry Lockwood.” The new award builds on a strong relationship between the ATA and Magic Millions, which already sponsors the prestigious Wayne Wilson Medal. That connection now deepens with support for this youth-focused award. “We thank Barry and the team for their ongoing support,” Andrews acknowledged. Further incentive will be offered for the runners-up, with second and third place getters receiving sales credits of $5,000 and $2,500 respectively. The contest will be staged across a series of races held from late December through January, including The Debut, Magic Millions Maiden, Rising Stars divisions, The Wave, and the Magic Millions 2YO Classic, 3YO Guineas, and Cup Day features. Magic Millions Managing Director Barry Bowditch welcomed the opportunity to invest in the next generation. “Supporting Queensland racing participants, including trainers, at all levels of the industry is incredibly important to Magic Millions,” he said. “The Queensland ATA do a wonderful job on behalf of their members, and we are absolutely delighted to support their new initiative of the Queensland ATA Rising Star. We look forward to hosting the winners at the Gold Coast March Yearling Sale.” Eligibility is limited to ATA members for the 2025/26 season who meet the age and partnership criteria, ensuring the award truly captures the future of Queensland’s training landscape.
NEWClose Voyage Bubble Relation at Magic Millions
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
With the team at Torryburn Stud cheering on their Inglis Classic yearling sale graduate Voyage Bubble (Deep Field) to his sixth Gr1 victory on Sunday night when going back-to-back in the Gr1 Hong Kong Mile (1600m) at Sha Tin with Zac Purton in the saddle, the farm isreally looking forward to offering his close relation at January’s Magic Millions yearling sale. Consigned as Lot 217, the chestnut filly is by Swettenham Stud’s Gr1 producing sire Toronado (IRE) out of Voyage Bubble’s Gr3 PJ Bell Stakes-winning half-sister Diddums (Snitzel). The dam of three winners from four to the races highlighted by the dual stakes-winning Zoustar filly Stardom, who was retained to race by the farm and is the care of the Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott yard, Diddums has foaled a full brother to Stardom this season. With both Voyage Bubble and Diddums being out of Raheights, the Rahy (USA) mare has now retired from broodmare duties, having produced her final foal last season, a lovely filly by Torryburn Stud’s homegrown Champion, and now exciting young Coolmore based sire Home Affairs (I Am Invincible) that the farm will retain to race. With Torryburn set to offer a small, but select draft of eight at next year's sale, the outstanding stud farm will offer yearlings by Zoustar, Farnan, Harry Angel, Home Affairs and Hellbent.
Voyage Bubble is one of an elite Hong Kong trio (pic: hkjc.com)
NEWAtzeni as Busy as a Bee at Happy Valley
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
After falling narrowly short of Group 1 glory on international day at Sha Tinj on Sunday, Andrea Atzeni is hoping a return to Happy Valley can bring a change of fortune as he partners a strong book of runners on Wednesday night, headlined by the in-form Super Unicorn in the Class Three Sea Eagle Handicap (1650m). The Sardinian rider came agonisingly close aboard Giavellotto in the Hong Kong Vase last weekend, where a lack of tempo and a determined rival proved decisive, reports scmp.com. “We didn’t go much of a gallop, which we thought could be the case,” he said. “Turning for home I was travelling better than the winner, but he just kept finding a little bit more.” Atzeni now links again with Super Unicorn, a gelding whose recent form surge has come with back-to-back wins over Wednesday’s track and trip. After scoring in Class Four, the Savabeel 5YO lifted again at his next run, unleashing a sharp turn of foot to score from the rear despite the rise in grade. “He’s got a good gate and is a really consistent horse,” said Atzeni, referencing rivals like I Can and South Star from his previous assignment. “He’s a horse who’s up in the ratings and will need some luck in running, but he’s going the right way. He never wins by far but he always seems to get the job done, doesn’t he?” With a strong draw in barrier two and Flying Fortress franking the form since, Atzeni has reason to believe the hat-trick is within reach. “It’s a classic 1650m field and there are a lot of dangers, but he won well the last day.” Among his other rides is Noble Deluxe, who lines up in the Class Five Robin Handicap (1000m) for John Size in search of a long-awaited breakthrough. The gelding has placed in five of seven runs this term and arrives off a good third at the Valley. “He had a good couple of runs at Sha Tin and then flopped, but last week he showed much more,” Atzeni noted. “Hopefully if he can keep that form, it’s only going to be a matter of time before he gets his head in front.” Atzeni also throws a leg over Hayday, who contests the Nightjar Handicap (1000m) for Ricky Yiu. A three-time Happy Valley winner, the gelding has dropped to a competitive mark and drawn barrier two. “Obviously he hasn’t shown that of late, but he’s drawn a good gate and hopefully we’ll get a good trip around.” Francis Meynell, Iconical and Amazing Kid round out Atzeni’s busy midweek roster.
NEWWell Credentialled Juveniles Win Sydney Trials
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
The first of two juvenile trials on Monday morning at Hawkesbury saw the Chris Waller-trained Steel Will (I Am Invincible-Pittsburgh Flyer, by Street Cry) charge late under Zac Llyod to take out the 800m heat. Having finished second in his debut trial behind last week’s Magic Millions Wyong 2YO Classic winner Paradoxium (Extreme Choice), the half-brother to the former Waller trained multiple Group 1 winner September Run (Exceed And Excel) and the Ciaron Maher trained Gr3 Magic Night Stakes winner Steel City (Merchant Navy), Steel Will was bred and is raced by Sir Owen Glenn’s Go Bloodstock Australia. Stalking the Peter Snowden-trained Capitalist filly Bonvoy throughout, Lloyd came to the outside of the leader with less than 100m to run, accelerating quickly to take the prize. The second of the two trials was won in slower time by the Ciaron Maher-trained Tornado Valley (Too Darn Hot-Oklahoma Girl, by Fastnet Rock). A winner of the Gr3 Maribyrnong Plate last time out (see below), the Rosemont Stud-bred colt settled wide and back before coming home under his own steam to finish narrowly ahead of the Chris Waller-trained Nations League (Snitzel-Fashion Faux Pas, by Flatter), who had interestingly finished third in his only previous trial behind Paradoxium, the same trial Steel Will finished second in. On the third line of betting for January’s $3m Magic Millions 2YO Classic on the Gold Coast, Tornado Valley has more than enough prizemoney to secure a run in the race so it will be interesting to see if he has a prep race prior or goes straight in. If Tornado Valley can continue to step up it will surely add further gloss to his Pinatubo (IRE) half-brother selling as Lot 635 in Rosemont Stud’s Magic Millions draft.
NEWSecretariat's 'Cove' Pastures Protected for Ever
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
Not far from the banks of the North Anna River, where rich grasses once nurtured a colt destined to change the face of American racing, a new chapter in conservation has taken root. According to bloodhorse.com, nearly 350 acres of Virginia farmland, long associated with Triple Crown legend Secretariat and the storied broodmares of Meadow Stable, are now under permanent protection thanks to a conservation easement placed by the Capital Region Land Conservancy. The property, affectionately known as "The Cove," was established in 1936 by Christopher Chenery as part of his Meadow Stable operation and played a foundational role in breeding champions such as Riva Ridge and Secretariat's dam, Somethingroyal. Often described as the cradle of a broodmare empire, The Cove helped lay the groundwork for what Penny Chenery later called "an empire built on broodmares." Kevin Engel of Engel Family Farms acquired The Cove in 2023, fulfilling a decades-long ambition to see the land restored and preserved. "Purchasing The Cove and restoring it to its heyday when Secretariat was running around on it has been a dream of mine for many years," Engel said. He noted that protecting agricultural land from industrial creep – data centres, warehouses, subdivisions – was as much about legacy as practicality. "It is so important for my grandchildren to be on land that is preserved without asphalt and concrete everywhere." Kate Tweedy, daughter of Penny Chenery, said her family had long championed land easements and praised Engel's commitment to stewardship. "My Mom and Granddad would be so pleased by this action," she said. That sentiment was echoed by Parker C. Agelasto, executive director of the Capital Region Land Conservancy, who underscored the lasting impact of land protection. "A landowner still owns their land, but they grant a restrictive deed to a third party… typically to eliminate development rights," he said. For Engel, the decision to place a conservation easement on The Cove carried deep personal significance. He began his farming career there more than four decades ago, and today his family business spans over 2,100 owned acres and leases another 30,000 across 21 counties in Virginia and North Carolina. While The Cove is a modest slice of that land, its historical weight is unmatched. Once home to Secretariat's earliest romps and the foaling grounds of champions, it will remain in agricultural use forever. Of its 346 acres, 156 are classified as agricultural cropland – 136 of them considered prime soils – and another 190 acres are protected forest, designated by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation as an ecological core of statewide conservation value.
Firm Response by ATC to Announced Administration
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
In response to Racing NSW’s decision to install an administrator for the Australian Turf Club (ATC) – see below – the revered Racing Club has firmly asserted its legal standing and declared its Board remains in place as the legitimate governing authority. The move follows a show cause process that culminated in Racing NSW announcing the appointment of an administrator to take control of ATC affairs. The ATC has rejected the legal validity of Racing NSW’s action, stating emphatically that the regulator does not have the authority to remove or override its duly appointed directors. Citing the ATC Constitution, the Corporations Act 2001, and the Australian Jockey and Sydney Turf Clubs Merger Act 2010, the Board insists it continues to operate lawfully and will not vacate its role in the governance of the Club. Throughout the drawn-out process, the Club contends it has acted in good faith, engaging constructively and submitting detailed documentation to address concerns. These included financial reports, strategic plans, and independent expert assessments. The Board has dismissed any suggestion it failed to deliver a coherent vision for future sustainability or failed to respond appropriately to the matters raised by Racing NSW. With legal avenues now being explored, the ATC will seek urgent relief from the Supreme Court of New South Wales. It plans to challenge Racing NSW’s power to appoint an administrator and will also ask the Court to examine how the decision was reached, raising concerns over issues such as potential predetermination and procedural independence. While the legal proceedings unfold, the ATC Board has confirmed it will continue to operate in what it believes to be the Club’s best interests. It reassured stakeholders that all scheduled race meetings and events will proceed as planned, with a continued focus on delivering safe, competitive racing and exceptional experiences for members and racegoers alike. With the matter soon to come before the Court, the Club has advised it will refrain from making any further public comment. However, it remains steadfast in its position, defending both its independence and its capacity to lead one of Australia’s most prominent racing institutions through what it sees as an unprecedented governance dispute.
Australian Turf Club Has Administrator Appointed
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
Monday’s news that Racing NSW has appointed an administrator to take over the affairs of the Australian Turf Club has sent shockwaves through the thoroughbred industry – despite warnings that such an outcome was increasingly likely. According to a brief press release published by Racing NSW on nits website, the move follows an exhaustive Show Cause process, including multiple formal meetings between Racing NSW and the ATC Boards. That extended engagement period, Racing NSW says, was designed to give the ATC every reasonable chance to address issues raised in relation to governance, solvency, and financial performance. Despite repeated invitations to provide submissions and set out a strategy for addressing its serious concerns, the ATC Board was ultimately found to have failed to demonstrate an ability to reverse its commercial fortunes or implement credible governance reform. The ongoing uncertainty, Racing NSW concluded, could no longer be ignored. To that end, a professional administrator has been appointed, and a committee will be formed to oversee their work. That committee may include current ATC Board members, general members selected on a skills-based matrix, and other suitable individuals with relevant financial or governance expertise. The administrator and new committee will now assume the responsibilities previously held by the Board. However, Racing NSW has stressed that day-to-day operations will remain in the hands of the existing ATC executive and that there will be no disruption to racing or events held at ATC venues. This transition period is being positioned as an opportunity – not a punishment – for the club to implement a robust new structure, stabilise its financial footing, and deliver long-term strategic clarity. Racing NSW says the objective is to ensure the ATC can be restored to a position of strength and public confidence, guided by independent oversight and supported by individuals with the necessary expertise to “see the job through.”
Snitzel Closing in on 50 $1 million-Plus Earners
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
There’s a toughness about the name that fits the horse – Yorkshire runs with the same blunt-force drive as the county he’s named for, and on Saturday at Randwick, that grit earned him a second Sydney feature. Taking command inside the final 200m, the 5YO Snitzel gelding raced away with the $2 million The Ingham over 1600m, notching his eighth win (along with 2 placings) from just 11 starts and pushing his prizemoney beyond $1.66 million. He now ranks inside the top 20 on Snitzel’s global list of 45 individual million-dollar earners, a prodigious roll led by champions such as Redzel, Trapeze Artist, Cap Ferrat, Shinzo and Away Game. Tom Charlton, who co-trains the gelding in partnership with fellow Englishman William Johnston, noted the horse still has more to give. “His record sums him up as a horse. Up the running there, he was having a look around. I think he’s not the finished article yet, which is exciting.” The victory automatically secured Yorkshire a golden ticket to the 2026 Doncaster Mile, with a ballot exemption into the $4 million Randwick mile on April 4, run over the same course and distance. Few would bet against his return. Bred by S F Bloodstock from the stakes-performed mare Chanteline, Yorkshire was a $575,000 Inglis Easter purchase for PR Funds from Newgate Farm. His ownership group includes PR Thoroughbreds’ Rob Roulston and Mark Player, alongside well-known names such as Gerry Ryan, Neil Werrett, Colin Madden, Musk Creek Farm and Rifa Mustang. At face value, the cohort of owners has plenty to look forward to in the autumn. Yorkshire’s dam Chanteline has since produced a yearling colt by I Am Invincible and a 2025 filly by Extreme Choice. Meanwhile, Snitzel will be represented by 21 fillies and 16 colts from his penultimate crop at the upcoming Magic Millions Gold Coast Sale. If the past is any guide, there are likely to be a number of his yearlings with the potential to continue the seemingly inexorable run of success enjoyed by the now deceased sire-son of Redoute’s Choice. Snitzel is the current leader of the 2025 Australian Black Type Stallion Premiership.
Burke Presses Button on Tassie Boom Mare
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
As Tasmania’s summer racing carnival draws ever closer, of its brightest prospects returned to winning form in Sunday’s $50,000 Winzenberg Handicap (1100m) at Hobart. Press For Boom, a mare with a blossoming sprint record, proved too sharp late, making amends for her runner-up effort in the same race last year. That victory was the sixth from just eight career starts for the John Blacker-trained five-year-old, who has now firmly set her sights on fillies and mares' targets throughout January and February. Press for Boom is by former Vinery stud dual Group 1-winning sire Press Statement. “She’s probably one of the best sprinting mares in the state, I’d say,” Blacker told tasracing.com.au, not hiding his admiration. “We tipped her out after one run last prep to concentrate on this, then the Lady Lynette and the two Group 3s down the track.” With high-flying jockey Erica Byrne Burke aboard, the well-supported favourite ($2.90) settled in behind leader Tsunami Sam ($4.40) before navigating a neat run along the rail. It was a clinical ride, matching Blacker’s long-range planning with precision in execution. Press For Boom held her advantage at the post, while 2024 Newmarket winner Geegees Gemstone ($10) surged late from the back to grab second, just over a length behind. The next key test will be the $50,000 Lady Lynette (1100m) on 18 January at the same track, where connections hope to stretch her form into black-type company. “We’ll just stick to the fillies and mares races now, and all the credit goes to the team at Longford,” Blacker revealed. He didn’t leave the course with just one winner either. Promising Alpine Eagle galloper Georgaroni ($2.50) added a third win from five starts in the Class 4 (1600m), just nosing out Fiorente De Legend ($2.60) in the closest finish of the day. So tight was the margin that both jockey and trainer thought they’d finished runner-up.
Ka Ying Rising Wins Gr1 Hong Kong Sprint
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
Track: Sha Tin
Race: Gr1 Hong Kong Sprint (1200m)
Winner: Ka Ying Rising
Placings: Raging Blizzard and Fast Network
Stallion: Shamexpress (O’Reilly-Volkrose, by Volksraad)
Stud Farm: Windsor Park Stud
Race Record: 16 Wins and 2 Placings from 18 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Silent Witness Record Now Under Genuine Threat
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
Ka Ying Rising moved to within one win of champion Silent Witness’ Hong Kong record with a showstopping blitz in Sunday’s Group 1 Longines Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m) at Sha Tin on Sunday. Twelve months after claiming his first elite-level success in the same race but only narrowly, the world’s best sprinter delivered the performance everyone expected when coasting to his 16th straight victory, reports scmp.com. “That’s what everyone wanted. Obviously after last year they were a bit flat, but this year we showed everyone what he can do,” said jockey Zac Purton. Jumping from barrier one for the first time, Ka Ying Rising held out Japan’s Win Carnelian for the lead with Purton eager to stay off the fence. Purton asked the David Hayes-trained superstar for an effort at the top of the straight and he responded, exploding clear to even give the jockey time to check how far in front he was on the big screen on the inside of the track. He scored by three and three-quarter lengths eased down by Purton late, clocking 1:07.70 on a surface that wasn’t producing quick times. “We didn’t really have a fixed plan other than to be positive and I was surprised I led, but I was always going to be happy to lead anyway,” Purton said. “The fence is obviously no good so I had to get off it but gee, when I looked at the big screen, I was a long way in front. “He drew the right gate and when the barrier came out, they said ‘what do you think?’ and I said ‘he’ll win by further’. Purton added, “He’s just in a league of his own now and not having to do that extra work into the first corner from a wide gate to try and get forward really helped him.” Raging Blizzard ran on strongly from the second half of the field to snatch second from Fast Network, who kept on after tracking Ka Ying Rising in running. The 2023 Hong Kong Sprint winner Lucky Sweynesse made late ground for fourth ahead of Helios Express. Legendary jockey Ryan Moore paid Ka Ying Rising the ultimate compliment after finishing ninth on Japan’s Satono Reve. “The winner’s just exceptional – the best I’ve seen at that trip,” Moore said. Ka Ying Rising joins Falvelon (2000-01), Silent Witness (2003-04), Lord Kanaloa (2012-13) and Mr Stunning (2017-18) as back-to-back winners of the city’s biggest sprint.
Voyage Bubble Wins Gr1 Hong Kong Mile
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
Track: Sha Tin
Race: Gr1 Hong Kong Mile (1600m)
Winner: Voyage Bubble (Deep Field-Raheights, by Rahy)
Placings: Soul Irish and Red Lion
Stallion: Deep Field (Northern Meteor-Listen Here, by Elusive Quality)
Stud Farm: Newgate Farm
Race Record: 12 Wins and 11 Placings from 29 Starts
Sales Details: $380,000 yearling consigned by Torryburn Stud at the Inglis Classic Sale
Voyage Bursts Opposition Bubble in HKIR Mile
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
Another heroic chapter was added to a glittering resume as Hong Kong’s reigning Triple Crown winner summoned all his courage to claim back-to-back victories in the Group 1 Hong Kong Mile at Sha Tin. Voyage Bubble, already etched into local folklore following his clean sweep of last season’s Triple Crown series, delivered a powerful late surge to overhaul Soul Rush in a stirring finish to Sunday’s international feature. It marked his sixth Group 1 win and lifted his career earnings past HK$128.7 million. The 7YO gelding was purchased by trainer Ricky Yiu for $380,000 from the Torryburn Stud draft at the Inglis Classic Yearling Sale, and has since become one of the most accomplished gallopers in Hong Kong’s modern racing history. Sunday’s triumph, coming from barrier 12 of 14 and off the back of a runner-up effort in the Jockey Club Cup, once again showcased his versatility and tenacity. “He’s a freak,” said Brett Cornish of Torryburn Stud. “It was pretty amazing, jumping from that gate, coming back in trip, and delivering again – he’s just a weapon.” Jockey Zac Purton, who has partnered the Deep Field gelding throughout his career, was full of admiration after the race. “I think he just showed what type of horse he is,” Purton said. “When Soul Rush couldn’t put me away, I could feel him start to gain in confidence and with 75 metres to go, I thought, ‘hang on, we’re back in this’. He’s got such a big heart – always up for the fight – and he came back off the canvas to win.” Purton added: “When you reflect on the great horses that have raced here, he deserves to be remembered that way. His CV is outstanding – winning the Triple Crown, which hadn’t been done in more than 30 years – and now doing this again in the Hong Kong Mile.” Trainer Ricky Yiu echoed those sentiments. “The horse has a great heart. Even though he’s seven, he’s still full of beans, and the owners are a fantastic group – they’re always cheering him on trackside.” A Hong Kong Derby winner at three, Voyage Bubble’s 2025 campaign has also included Group 1 wins in the Stewards’ Cup, Hong Kong Gold Cup and Champions & Chater Cup, making him one of the sport’s defining figures of the season. Torryburn Stud will present a draft of eight yearlings at the 2026 Inglis Classic Sale at Riverside Stables, February 8–10.
Sosie Wins Gr1 Hong Kong Vase
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
Track: Sha Tin
Race: Gr1 Hong Kong Vase (2400m)
Winner: Sosie (Sea The Stars-Sosia, by Shamardal)
Placings: Giavelletto and Goliath
Stallion: Sea The Stars (Cape Cross-Urban Sea, by Miswaki)
Stud Farm: N/A
Race Record: 7 Wins and 4 Placings from 13 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Fabre Celebrates 80th Birthday With 4th Vase
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
A landmark birthday brought with it a landmark achievement, as France’s most decorated trainer tightened his grip on the Hong Kong Vase record with a fourth career win in the prestigious staying feature, reports racingnews.hkjc.com. Sosie, the colt at the centre of it, delivered in style under Maxime Guyon to hand André Fabre another crowning moment at Sha Tin. The win marked a measure of redemption for the son of Sea The Stars, who had finished behind Giavellotto in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe but turned the tables here with a resolute front-on performance that repelled his old rival by three-quarters of a length. Goliath stayed on strongly for third, with the placings once again shaped by tactics and tempo. Elisabeth Fabre was quick to place the result in seasonal context. “Everything went perfectly,” she said. “The race unfolded perfectly, he had a great trip and Maxime knows his horse very well, while Sosie had trust in him when he asked him for his effort. He is a very good horse with a wonderful mind and a lot of natural energy. He is magnificent to look at and he will stay in training next year.” From gate eight, Guyon had Sosie positioned just off the pace and in clear air, tracking the early lead set by Eydon before the tempo lifted mid-race thanks to a move from Urban Chic. Christophe Lemaire’s bid to stretch the field proved short-lived, however, and as the pack turned for home, Guyon swept wide while Christophe Soumillon darted up the rail on Goliath. Giavellotto, sticking to his task, fought hard but could not draw level. “Everything went very smoothly,” said Guyon, now a three-time winner of the race. “I followed Los Angeles for three-quarters of the race, but halfway round the home turn, Ryan’s horse began to falter. This horse can really sustain his run, and he is such a hard horse to pass. The horse has such a great temperament and he is so easy to put anywhere in a race.” The entire’s fourth Group 1 this season – having already won the Ganay, Ispahan and now the Vase – reflected his adaptability across both distances and borders. “This was the first time he’d travelled across continents, and yet he’s been relaxed every morning this week, and he’s looked amazing,” Guyon added. For Fabre, Sosie now joins Borgia, Flintshire and Junko as Vase winners, placing the Chantilly icon one clear of Aidan O’Brien.
Sosie gave Fabre a Record fourth Vase success (pic: hkjc.com)
Romantic Warrior Wins Gr1 Hong Kong Cup
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
Track: Sha Tin
Race: Gr1 Hong Kong Cup (2000m)
Winner: Romantic Warrior (Acclamation-Folk Melody, by Street Cry)
Placings: Bellagio Opera and Quisisana
Stallion: Acclamation (Royal Applause-Princess Athena, by Ahonoora)
Stud Farm: N/A
Race Record: 20 Wins and 5 Placings from 26 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Romantic HKIR Cup Quartet Quest Realised
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
What unfolded at Sha Tin on Sunday had all the hallmarks of greatness, as a reigning hero etched his name even deeper into racing’s folklore with an extraordinary fourth straight win in the Group 1 Hong Kong Cup. According to racing.com, the light blue silks surged again down the famous 2000m stretch, carried by a gelding now celebrated not just for his longevity but for a career of astonishing breadth and brilliance. Romantic Warrior, closing in on his eighth birthday, proved imperious in holding Bellagio Opera at bay by a length and three-quarters, with Quisisana arriving late for third. It took his Group 1 tally to 11 across four jurisdictions – a staggering haul in any era. Rider James McDonald was ice-cool early, positioning the gelding just behind a steady tempo set by Galen, while Dylan Browne McMonagle ensured his mount was the first to swing for home. But the moment the favourite was let down, the Sha Tin crowd sensed what was coming. From the 400m peg, Romantic Warrior slipped into another gear, taking command without alarm, and resisting the challenge of Bellagio Opera with a champion’s ease. Trainer Danny Shum barely had time to jot down the result before being mobbed by well-wishers. “I’m very proud of Romantic Warrior and our stable team, they work really hard,” he said. “It’s a big relief. He always gives me a lot of happiness, not only me but my stable, owners, my family and in Hong Kong, even racing fans or non-racing fans, they all love Romantic Warrior.” There had been concerns mid-year after surgery was required on a leg injury, but his response was vintage. “To be honest, there was a lot of pressure,” Shum admitted. “He had his surgery when a screw was inserted at the end of May, but he is such a good, calm, lovely horse. He’s part of my family. My son says I love Romantic Warrior more than him!” McDonald’s reaction was heartfelt. “He’s so special, he’s so special,” he repeated, overcome in the moment. “He’s just a freak. I don’t know what to say … I just love him. I love him.” Though his feats have been chronicled in HD across screens worldwide, Romantic Warrior evokes a spirit of the bold campaigners from racing’s golden age. From wins in Australia, Japan and Dubai, to near misses in Saudi Arabia’s dirt showdown and the Dubai Turf, he has defied convention. Now, he may again face Japan’s Forever Young, should Peter Lau – the ever-calculating owner – give Shum the nod.
Fresh is Best for Stakes Bound Snitzel Gelding
Tuesday, 16th December 2025
With a potent fresh record already under his belt, the return of To Bravery Born at Te Rapa on Saturday suggested there may be bigger targets ahead this summer. The three-year-old gelding came from the tail of the field to win his 1100m assignment with authority, prompting trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson to pencil in a tilt at next month’s Gr3 Cambridge Stud Almanzor Trophy (1400m) on Karaka Millions night. This was no isolated performance. As a juvenile, the son of Snitzel won on debut, then returned from a break to repeat the dose at Ellerslie. That pattern has held: he resumed as a three-year-old to win again over the same distance at Taupo in August, and once more looked the consummate fresh horse when storming home from last in Saturday’s outing. A sluggish getaway left him several lengths off the leaders early, but with Opie Bosson back in the saddle after a concussion layoff, the gelding was allowed to find his rhythm. Bosson didn’t panic. Instead, he angled To Bravery Born to the outside turning in, then let the gelding uncork his familiar sprint, running down To Cap It All with half a length to spare. Places To Be filled third, a further length and a half away. “Coming to the turn he started coming up underneath me,” Bosson said. “I knew he’s got a good sprint and he goes well fresh, and they went pretty quick up front, so I knew they’d be coming back to me halfway up the straight. He’s definitely got ability and he certainly goes better fresh, so it’s about keeping him on the fresh side, but I think he’s a good racehorse.” Walker, while pleased, admitted the horse’s tardy start had been unexpected. “I don’t know what happened at the start, he was a bit slow away. He’s got a great record fresh and he’s probably got a bit better win in him yet.” Bosson’s own return to racing this week was capped by a win at Tauranga on Friday aboard Tagalomu, another Te Akau runner, and he was candid about his recovery. “The bang on the head took a lot out of me, and I was a bit down and out for a couple weeks, but the marbles are starting to stop rattling up there now.” To Bravery Born has now won four of his eight starts and placed in the Gr3 Matamata Slipper. Stakes success is the missing piece – one his team hopes to complete at Ellerslie.
