A broad and deep catalogue has set the stage for the upcoming Inglis Australian Weanling Sale, with Riverside once again preparing to host one of the most important early-market indicators of the breeding stock season. The 2026 edition will open proceedings for the Inglis Breeding Stock Sales Series across May 5 and 6, before attention quickly shifts to the Chairman’s Sale later that week. This year’s offering comprises 500 lots and features progeny by more than 100 stallions, reflecting both diversity and quality at the foundation level of the market. Among the headline sires are established heavyweights such as I Am Invincible, Snitzel, Zoustar and Frankel, supported by a wide range of proven and emerging names that underline the strength of the Australian and international stallion ranks. The vendor list is equally comprehensive, bringing together many of the country’s leading operations alongside a number of boutique breeders. Coolmore, Newgate, Widden, Segenhoe, Yarraman and Vinery are among the major players represented, while a host of respected farms including Cressfield, Willow Park, Twin Hills, Alma Vale and Fairhill contribute to a catalogue that speaks to both scale and consistency. A number of breeders have committed exclusively to the sale, further reinforcing its position within the annual calendar. Beyond the established sires, buyers will also find offerings by stallions such as Home Affairs, Anamoe, Street Boss, Toronado, Harry Angel, Ole Kirk, Wootton Bassett and Castelvecchio, along with a range of younger or emerging influences including Alabama Express, Justify, Spirit of Boom, Proisir and Stay Inside. This blend provides opportunities across a spectrum of budgets and strategies, whether targeting racing prospects or future trading potential. One of the defining features of the weanling market remains the opportunity to secure the first progeny of recently retired racehorses, and this year’s catalogue continues that trend. Early offspring by names such as Shinzo, Cylinder, King’s Gambit, Mo’unga and Native Trail are set to draw considerable interest, offering buyers a chance to engage with untested but highly anticipated bloodlines. Inglis Bloodstock chief executive Sebastian Hutch pointed to the evolution of the sale as a key driver of its growing appeal. He noted that sustained efforts to improve both the quality and volume of entries have translated into stronger results and increased confidence among buyers. He also highlighted the racecourse success of past graduates, with performers such as Hayasugi and Kimochi providing tangible evidence of the sale’s ability to produce top-level horses. Eligibility for the Inglis Race Series remains a significant attraction, with graduates able to compete for substantial prize pools including the Inglis Millennium and associated bonus schemes. With supplementary entries still open ahead of the late-April deadline, the catalogue is expected to gain further depth before buyers converge on Sydney for a sale that continues to expand its influence.
The first of Shinzo's weanlings will be on show (pic: Steve Hart)
NEWRVL Gets on The Fuel Dilemma Front Foot
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
Mounting fuel pressures across the racing landscape have prompted swift action, with Racing Victoria moving to introduce immediate financial relief aimed at easing the burden on participants spread across the state’s vast network. From April 1, a series of temporary support measures will come into effect, targeting trainers, jockeys and those involved in post-racing care as transport costs continue to escalate. Central to the initiative is a direct subsidy to trainers, who will receive $100 for every runner they start in a Victorian race. The expectation is that this assistance will be channelled back into operations, particularly to offset rising transport expenses and reduce the flow-on impact to owners while also supporting stable staff. Jockeys will also benefit, with a $50 payment for each meeting attended, recognising the increasing cost of travel required to participate across metropolitan and regional fixtures. This sits alongside the existing minimum riding fee structure and applies regardless of distance travelled. Beyond raceday participants, the package extends to the Off The Track sector, where retrainers, rehomers and retirement farms will receive a 10 per cent uplift in support payments. That increase lifts the per-horse subsidy to $165, reinforcing the importance of aftercare in a period where rising costs are being felt across all facets of the industry. The move aligns with broader government intervention announced earlier in the week, including a temporary halving of the national fuel excise and the removal of the heavy vehicle road user charge for larger diesel-powered transport. Together, those measures are designed to deliver immediate relief, particularly for an industry so heavily dependent on road transport for horse movement between training centres, race meetings and spelling facilities. Racing Victoria’s response follows consultation with key stakeholder groups, including the Australian Trainers Association, Victorian Jockeys Association and Thoroughbred Racehorse Owners Association, as well as engagement with government bodies. The support package will initially run for a minimum of one month, with ongoing review mechanisms in place to assess its effectiveness and respond to further developments in fuel pricing or supply. Chief executive Aaron Morrison framed the initiative as part of a broader commitment to sustaining participation during challenging conditions. He noted that the industry’s regional footprint amplifies its exposure to fuel costs, making transport one of its most significant operational expenses. The subsidies, he said, are intended to complement federal measures and provide targeted assistance where it is most needed, particularly in relation to horse movement. Participants have also been encouraged to explore practical efficiencies, including shared transport arrangements for race meetings, trials and jumpouts, as part of a collective effort to manage costs. Payments under the scheme will be processed in arrears on a weekly basis for trainers and jockeys, while post-racing providers will receive their entitlements in line with existing cycles. With further consultation ongoing and additional adjustments to the racing calendar under consideration, the measures represent an immediate response to a rapidly evolving situation, aimed at maintaining stability across all levels of the sport.
NEWIt’s Mate vs Mate in Blue Army Derby Tussle
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
A compelling subplot has emerged ahead of Saturday’s Gr1 Australian Derby, with the chief threat to Observer’s bid for a rare double coming not from a rival stable, but from within the same powerful Godolphin ranks. Green Spaces has surged to the top of the market following his latest performance, setting up an intriguing clash between stablemates over 2400m at Randwick. The task facing Observer is significant. Victory would see him become just the fifth horse to complete the Victoria Derby–Australian Derby double since the latter shifted to the autumn in 1979, and only the third in the past five years. Recent history suggests it is an achievable feat, with Hitotsu (now standing at Arrowfield Stud) and Riff Rocket both managing the progression, but the path is rarely straightforward. His position in betting reflects that challenge. Having been edged out when a beaten favourite in the Rosehill Guineas, he now sits on the second line at $3.50, just behind Green Spaces, who has tightened to $3 favouritism following confirmation of the field. Trainer Ciaron Maher remains confident that Observer can rebound when returned to a more suitable trip. “He worked on (Tuesday) morning and seems in great order,” Maher said. “He has come through the Guineas well, looks great and we are excited to get him out to the mile and a half again.” The step back to 2400m is expected to play to his strengths, with the Ghaiyyath colt having already demonstrated his staying credentials earlier in the season. Champion jockey James McDonald has been booked for the ride, adding further confidence ahead of what shapes as the colt’s autumn grand final. Barrier concerns appear minimal despite a wide draw, with Maher indicating the colt’s natural racing pattern should offset any disadvantage. “An inner draw would have been fine (too), he generally bounces quick and puts himself on speed but you want to be smooth over that trip,” he said. Equipment adjustments have also been made in a nod to previous success. “I’ve popped a Norton bit on him again, he won the Derby in that in the spring.” For statistical buffs, here’s something to consider. On the overall Australian Black Type Stallion table, Green Space’s sire Street Boss has 138 individual stakes race wins or placings. There is a but, however – not one of those races is beyond 2040m, with just Anamoe boasting a Cox Plate success at the trip. There's always the exception to the rule but another 360 metres is, statistically speaking, a punt into the unknown. While much of the focus centres on the Godolphin pair, the race retains depth. Tulloch Stakes winner Storm Leopard has firmed into $4, while New Zealand Derby victor Road To Paris adds an extra dimension after crossing the Tasman. With form lines converging and stable dynamics adding another layer of intrigue, the stage is set for a Derby that may hinge as much on internal rivalry as external challenge.
NEWBirdman Can Fly the Flag in Queensland
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
A shift in focus is underway for Birdman following his unplaced run in the Australian Cup, with connections now looking north to the Queensland winter carnival in a bid to reignite his Group 1 ambitions. Despite entering last Saturday’s Flemington feature as a well-supported $2.50 favourite, the Chris Waller-trained import could only manage fifth, leaving his backers searching for answers after a performance that promised more at various stages. For a brief moment in the straight, the race appeared to be his for the taking as he travelled into contention with ease. However, the rain-affected surface ultimately proved his undoing, with the gelding unable to accelerate when it mattered most. The contest instead went to fellow Ozzie Kheir-owned runner Light Infantry Man, who relished the conditions to defeat Pride Of Jenni in a strong finish. In the aftermath, attention has quickly turned to more suitable targets, with the Doomben Cup emerging as a likely goal, preceded by a run in the Hollindale Stakes. Kheir indicated a strong leaning towards that path. “My thinking is there is an 80 per cent chance that Birdman will go towards Queensland,” he said. “It is now most likely he will head there for a winter campaign and the Hollindale and the Doomben Cup would be the plan.” Stablemate Leica Lucy, also part-owned by Kheir, may follow a similar route after finishing sixth in the same race. A final decision on her immediate plans is expected shortly. “We have to make a call on Leica Lucy in the next day or two,” Kheir said. “But it is most likely she will head up to Queensland as well.” The prospect of a Queensland campaign holds particular appeal given Birdman’s ownership includes Brisbane-based Noel Greenhalgh, who would welcome a genuine contender on home turf. Importantly, his recent defeat is not being viewed as a true reflection of his ability, with conditions cited as a significant factor. “When I saw the Flemington track was heavy there at one stage, I lost all confidence with Birdman,” Kheir said. “I was very confident beforehand, I thought he would just win. But then when I saw the track was wet, I honestly thought we were going to struggle. He is a better horse on top of the ground.” That assessment aligns with his earlier form, which included a pair of Group 2 victories during the Melbourne autumn, performances that had elevated expectations ahead of the Australian Cup. Kheir also noted the race shape and conditions played into the hands of others. “I thought the rain-affected ground would bring Light Infantry Man into the race because he likes that sort of ground and was always going to love the tempo.” With firmer surfaces anticipated in Queensland, there is confidence that Birdman can return to his best as he targets a winter campaign that now shapes as a key opportunity to reaffirm his standing at the elite level.
NEWBlacker Takes Weight Off Top 2YO’s Back
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
A dominant trial performance at Launceston has confirmed plans remain on track for one of Tasmania’s most promising juveniles, with Aristopolos sharpening up ahead of his next raceday target after bypassing a Good Friday assignment due to weight concerns. The unbeaten two-year-old continues to impress in every outing, and his latest piece of work suggested he has returned in excellent order following a brief break. Trainer John Blacker had initially considered running his stable star in a 2YO Handicap over 1100m, but the allocated impost forced a rethink. “I would have run him on Friday afternoon, but I just thought they gave him a bit too much weight. I was hoping for 61 (kilos),” he said. With 66 kilograms assigned against a field largely made up of debutants, the decision was made to stick with a longer-term plan rather than risk a taxing run under unsuitable conditions. Attention now turns to the Alfa Bowl over 1200m at Launceston on April 17, where Aristopolos is expected to resume his campaign. His recent trial was designed as a controlled hit-out rather than a searching test, with star jockey Erica Byrne Burke instructed accordingly. “He had three weeks off, and he’s been back in since then. Once we knew he was weighted out last night, we said to Erica to stretch his legs without busting him, as I won’t run him Friday,” Blacker explained. The colt’s record already speaks to his quality, with five wins from as many starts, including a decisive victory in the Listed Gold Sovereign in February. That performance cemented his standing as one of the state’s leading juveniles and reinforced the belief that patience will be rewarded as his campaign unfolds. While Aristopolos will not feature on the Good Friday card, Blacker will still have a presence through other runners, including Fierce Spirit, who has pleased in recent work. “I think the horse that ran third to Aristopolos, Fierce Spirit, I walked away happy with his trial, and Lauryn was keen to stick with him on Friday,” he said. Interstate ambitions also remain part of the stable’s broader outlook. Following the recent success of Zulu Angel at Caulfield, has sent Vino Novello across Bass Strait for a Benchmark 78 contest over 2400m.
A high-stakes legal battle is unfolding for one of Australian racing’s most prominent training partnerships, with the immediate future of Anthony and Sam Freedman’s operation hanging in the balance as the Victorian Racing Tribunal weighs the consequences of admitted race-day treatment breaches. The father-and-son team, responsible for a Melbourne Cup triumph with Without A Fight, is seeking to avoid disqualification after conceding to charges they insist stemmed from a medical oversight rather than deliberate conduct, according to smh.com.au. The potential ramifications extend far beyond the immediate case. Their stable supports 60 staff across Victoria and New South Wales, carries annual wage commitments of around $4 million, and maintains multiple training bases at Cranbourne, Pinecliff and Randwick at significant monthly cost. Recent investment in bloodstock, including $3 million spent on yearlings over the past two months, further underscores the scale of the operation now under threat. Central to the case are two charges relating to the administration of medication on a race day, along with a failure to maintain proper treatment records. The issue came to light following a stewards’ inspection of the Cranbourne stables on August 16 last year, where two horses, Moonhaven and Kira, were allegedly found receiving treatment via a nebuliser prior to their scheduled runs at Caulfield. Both were subsequently scratched. While the use of such equipment is permitted under certain conditions, the rules strictly prohibit the administration of any medication on race day. In a statement released at the time, the Freedmans accepted responsibility while maintaining the breach was unintentional. “An oversight occurred within the stable for which we take full responsibility. We take pride in our integrity and the strength of our systems, but any system in the world can fall victim to human error.” Legal arguments have since focused on whether disqualification is a mandatory outcome. Representing the trainers, Matthew Stirling challenged Racing Victoria’s late submission that a ban must be imposed, arguing it introduced a new legal position without adequate notice. He contended that such a shift had already caused significant damage. “Anthony Freedman has laid himself bare over the last two months… purchasing yearlings,” Stirling said. “If there’s a case hanging over their head… why would you give a horse to them?” The defence has also emphasised the absence of intent and the context surrounding the treatment. “Was it inadvertence and stable error or a combination of unfortunate facts which were coincident in resulting in the administrations? Yes,” Stirling said, arguing that the matter aligns with precedents where financial penalties, rather than disqualification, have been imposed. The tribunal has adjourned proceedings until June to consider the legal arguments in detail, leaving the industry to await a decision that could have far-reaching implications not only for the Freedmans but for regulatory interpretation more broadly.
Waller 3YOs Key to Breaking Doncaster Drought
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
A decade has passed since Chris Waller last claimed the Doncaster Mile, yet the prospect of adding another chapter to his remarkable record now rests with a pair of progressive 3YOs who arrive at Randwick with contrasting profiles but equal intrigue. As the trainer searches for a seventh success in the $4 million feature, Autumn Boy and Sixties have emerged as the central pillars of his challenge. The latter will carry just 49kg under Rachel King, a booking Waller was keen to secure given her familiarity with the colt. “He’s a very talented horse and he’s shown that in his Phar Lap win,” Waller told racingnsw.com.au. “Rachel won a Group race on him in the spring, she’s obviously a natural lightweight rider and I see her as a big race rider. She’s won some big races in Australia, big races in Japan, she’s the right person for the job.” Their prior success together includes a victory over Autumn Boy in the Ming Dynasty, and Sixties has continued to build his case with a decisive Phar Lap Stakes win three weeks ago. His preparation has not been without challenges, particularly in the Australian Guineas where a wide draw forced him into an uncomfortable role. Waller believes a return to handicap conditions and a more favourable run will see him competitive. “He didn’t get much luck in his last Group 1, which was the Australian Guineas, he drew wide and had to go forward and it didn’t quite work for him,” he said. “Back to handicap conditions, if he draws a good barrier, he can definitely be top three.” The colt’s versatility remains a key asset, along with a temperament that has quickly endeared him to the stable. Autumn Boy, by contrast, arrives with a more traditional Doncaster preparation, having built his campaign through a 2000m test before freshening for the Randwick mile. His dominant victory in the Rosehill Guineas on Slipper Day reinforced that approach and convinced Waller he is ready to step back in trip. “You need a strong 2000m horse to win a tough Randwick mile so that’s what I’m going with and he's got a pretty good weight,” he said. “He’s come through (the Guineas) really well.” The reapplication of blinkers is intended to sharpen his response at a critical stage, particularly after his previous encounter with Sheza Alibi. “He didn’t see her coming the other day, she was that fast,” Waller said. “It comes down to luck in running. Coming back to a mile isn’t easy, I don’t think he needs the blinkers as a racehorse but I’ve put them on to make sure he's there in Kerrin's hands when he asks him to quicken.” Waller’s history in the race is formidable, stretching from Triple Honour in 2008 through to Winx in 2016, with multiple contenders again set to represent his stable. Among them, Militarize returns for another attempt, adding depth to a team that once more looks capable of shaping the outcome.
Autumn Boy's rating suggests he can give the race a big shake (pic: magicmillions.com.au)
US Racing Coverage at Risk of Big Decline
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
A major shift in the presentation of horse racing in North America is looming, with FanDuel TV set to significantly scale back its television footprint before exiting traditional broadcasting altogether by 2027. The move, first reported by the Paulick Report, and extrapolated by bloodhorse.com, follows an internal review of the business and was outlined to staff during a March 27 video meeting. More than 100 employees are expected to be impacted, with workforce reductions of around 60% scheduled for the end of June. Remaining staff will continue through November as the network fulfils its commitments to marquee events including Keeneland and the Triple Crown. FanDuel's general manager of racing, Andrew Moore, acknowledged the decision carried weight but pointed to broader strategic considerations. "FanDuel conducted a thorough review of the business, and the investments needed to support a linear network didn't align with its long-term strategy," he said, adding that viewers would still receive uninterrupted coverage of key races through the Triple Crown period. From December onward, the network will move away from in-studio production, instead relying on track-supplied feeds through 2027. While the FanDuel Racing and TVG wagering platforms will continue to operate as core components of the business, the retreat from television represents a notable contraction in the sport's daily visibility. At present, FanDuel TV reaches approximately 30 million households and has served as a central hub for live racing, analysis and on-site reporting for more than two decades, tracing its origins back to the launch of TVG in 1999. For many within the industry, the announcement has been met with a mix of surprise and reflection. Former host Caton Bredar, who has remained involved with the network in a freelance capacity, described the development as difficult to process. "It's pretty surreal because, having been on the network when it launched, you just never thought it would come as far as it has to only come to a halt," she said. "It's truly a dream job, and it's just sad that, like everything, it's gonna come to an end." The importance of dedicated racing coverage was recognised from the outset, with early TVG leadership emphasising storytelling as a means of broadening the sport's appeal. That philosophy helped establish a loyal audience, many of whom have known no alternative platform for daily racing broadcasts. Questions now turn to how that gap will be filled. Although partnerships such as New York racing's arrangement with FOX Sports continue to provide exposure for major events, they do not replicate the depth or consistency of a dedicated network. Bredar suggested the absence of a comparable outlet could leave a significant void, particularly if no successor emerges to carry forward the model that helped modernise racing's media presence. Details of the transition remain limited, with FanDuel declining further comment beyond what has been reported. What is clear, however, is that a defining chapter in the sport's broadcast history is approaching its conclusion, with the ramifications potentially significant.
Two Decade Long Record Can Be Matched
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
A rare piece of southern racing history is within reach this weekend, with a lightly raced filly poised to complete a treble not achieved in two decades. The rescheduled Listed Gore Guineas at Riverton now presents Hello Hayley with the opportunity to sweep the Southern 3YO Guineas Triple Crown, following a sequence of performances that has elevated her into one of the standout fillies of her generation. The path to this point has not been without interruption. Originally slated to contest the Gore Guineas in early February, the meeting was abandoned after an incident in the opening race, forcing a rethink in her preparation. What followed, however, was a decisive step forward. Victories in the Southland Guineas at Ascot Park and the Dunedin Guineas at Wingatui confirmed her progression, with the daughter of Hello Youmzain showcasing both versatility and determination across increasing distances. With the rescheduled race shortened to 1200m, trainer Sophie Price opted to freshen her mare, a move that appears to have worked to plan. “Everything has gone to plan, she’s freshened up well, although looking at the entries it won’t be easy, there are some decent horses in against her and plenty of them,” she said. Conditions are also expected to play a role, with the track currently rated in the heavy range. “All her wins have been on slow-rated ground, but I suppose if it does stay in that heavy range it will make it more of a test and that shouldn’t worry her.” For Price, the occasion carries personal significance as well as professional opportunity. Having grown up in Riverton before establishing her training base in Winton, the meeting represents something of a homecoming. “I’ve spent more of my life in Winton than Riverton, but my parents still live there and I still consider myself a Riverton girl,” she said. “I’m looking forward to heading back there on the weekend and trying to complete the Guineas triple crown.” While a once-off financial bonus is no longer attached to the achievement, the milestone itself remains meaningful. “If she can do it we would be happy to settle for bragging rights.” Raced on lease by a group that includes Price’s husband Corey, the filly has already exceeded expectations. Acquired through Cambridge Stud after an initial enquiry to racing manager Jason Smith, she has developed into a durable and willing performer. “She’s not very big but for her size she’s pretty tough. She tests us, you have to go with her and let her do things on her terms, but I’m not complaining.” A strong nomination list ensures the task ahead will be no formality, with depth across the field adding to the challenge. Regardless of the outcome, the filly’s rise has already provided a memorable campaign, with further success set to cement her place among the region’s most notable three-year-olds.
Hello Haylee can add to racing history (pic: Monica Toretto)
Trainers Eyeing Group 1 Shadhavar Prospects
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
Decisions now loom for connections of Shadhavar following her latest stakes success at Morphettville, with the in-form mare presenting her trainers with a choice between staying local or stepping into deeper waters at Group 1 level, according to racenet.com.au. The Lindsay Park-trained galloper continued her strong South Australian campaign with victory in the Listed Matrice Stakes, building on her Magic Millions win at Murray Bridge earlier in the month. Options are already taking shape, with the Wangoom Handicap at Warrnambool during their carnival under consideration before a potential return to Adelaide for the Robert Sangster Stakes on April 25. Assistant trainer Dara O’Meachair indicated a flexible approach would be taken in mapping out her next move. “I think we’ll hold a nomination (for the Sangster),” he said. “(There are a) few other races around there. It’s tempting to go for a Wangoom in your own backyard. It’s even possible that we could see her back over here again, whether it’s the Sangster or a Proud Miss. You won’t need to talk her owner into it, we’ll just let the dust settle and weigh things up as we get closer.” Her latest performance suggested she is well equipped for whichever path is chosen. Given a confident ride by Jacob Opperman, she controlled proceedings from the front and proved too strong late, holding off Power Beau with Arkansaw Kid finishing third. O’Meachair was quick to praise her toughness and consistency. “She’s a ripping mare, it’s great to get a black type win with her. To get it (Stakes win) as an older mare in open (class) against the boys is a real feather in her cap,” he said. Elsewhere, the stable’s attention is also fixed on upcoming three-year-old targets, with Stung emerging as a leading Australasian Oaks prospect after a dominant win in the Listed Clare Lindop Stakes over 1600m. Ridden by Luke Currie, the filly settled just off the speed before asserting decisively in the straight to score by 1.75 lengths. “She’s exciting,” Currie said. “She was quite dynamic, settled well and was never going to get beat. Her final furlong was strong. She looks very progressive.” The victory carried added significance for Currie. “It’s nice to ride a winner in (a race) named after Clare Lindop, I rode against her for years. She was a great rider and great role model for all in and outside the industry,” he added. Further depth was added to the meeting by the continued rise of Never Ordinary, who demonstrated versatility in the Listed Dequetteville Stakes by settling off the speed before finishing strongly. Trainer Byron Cozamanis remains bullish about her progression. “She’s getting better all the time,” he said. “The vets said she’d never race, it’s an amazing story. I’ve had some nice horses, but she’s right up there with them. She’ll go to the Without Fear and then the Breeders, that’s the plan at this stage.”
Group 1 Stars’ Connections to Hasten Slowly
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
A defining weekend across two countries has prompted a pause rather than an immediate push forward, with connections opting to give their emerging stars time to reset after a memorable Group 1 double. Following standout performances at Trentham and Randwick, plans have been confirmed for both Seize The Day and Belle Cheval to head to the spelling paddock before being aimed at new-season targets. The decision around Belle Cheval had effectively been made prior to her narrow victory in the Vinery Stud Stakes, with the filly already relocated to Australia as part of a longer-term strategy. Trainer Mark Walker explained that a measured approach would be taken as she transitions between preparations. “Belle Cheval has already been floated down to our Cranbourne stable and she’ll spend a couple of days there just trotting out to familiarise her before she comes back into work to prepare for the spring,” he said. That shift reflects a preference from her ownership group to remain in Australia, rather than returning to New Zealand where spring conditions can often prove testing. “Her owners David Archer and Diane Wright like the idea of staying in Australia instead of kicking off her season back in New Zealand, mainly because those spring tracks back home are often so wet.” A clear target has already been identified, with the $10 million Golden Eagle at Randwick shaping as her early spring objective. “At this stage her main early target will be the Golden Eagle in Sydney, which will allow plenty of time for the spell she’s earned and then have a steady build-up,” Walker added. The 1500m feature, restricted to four-year-olds, has quickly become one of the most sought-after races on the calendar and is expected to draw a high-quality field again this year. Attention has also turned to Seize The Day, whose dominant victory in the Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes left little doubt about his standing among his generation. While immediate racing options had been considered, discussions between Te Akau’s principals and a partnership that includes his breeders Yarraman Park have led to a decision to give him a break rather than press on into a late-season campaign. For Walker, the double provided a moment of reflection on a career that continues to evolve. “It’s a massive thrill for everyone involved to win Group Ones on the same day at Trentham and Randwick,” he said. “I’ve been training for coming up 30 years and it’s a personal career highlight. Especially with Belle Cheval, who did her final serious work at Matamata before flying to Sydney, it was a Team New Zealand effort that together we made happen.” Further decisions now loom for other members of the stable, with Walker indicating that plans for several older mares will be reviewed in the coming weeks as their future roles – either racing on or transitioning to broodmare duties – are assessed.
Racing NSW Praised for Fuel Funding Package
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
Relief measures introduced by Racing NSW have been warmly received on the state’s far south coast, where rising costs have placed increasing pressure on smaller racing communities. A combined $3.1 million funding package, rolled out in two stages last week, is being viewed as a timely intervention for participants who have been grappling with the effects of an escalating fuel crisis. An initial $1.5 million allocation was announced to assist owners, trainers and jockeys, before a further $1.6 million was directed towards the industry’s lowest-paid workers, including stable staff and casual raceday employees. For Sapphire Coast Turf Club CEO Rob Tweedie, the direct nature of the support is what makes the difference. “It's going directly into the pockets of the people that need it most,” he told punters.com.au. Operating in a regional area presents unique challenges, particularly when travel costs surge, and Tweedie believes the funding will provide meaningful relief. “Given where we sit geographically down here on the Sapphire Coast it's vital in helping us with our ongoing operations,” he said. He suggested many within the local ranks had been feeling the strain without drawing attention to it. “For a lot of our loyal staff and trainers they would be too proud to come out and say it, but they would have definitely been struggling with these extraordinary times.” The support is expected to have a tangible impact on those working at the grassroots level of the sport. “For the battling trainers that just poke around with a horse or two or the casual staff that travel a long way to work at our race meetings, this relief moves the needle and is a big relief,” Tweedie said. “A lot of our staff and trainers do what they do through loyalty so they will suffer in silence if they have to. So for Racing NSW to get out on the front foot and do this will mean a lot to so many people that are the lifeblood of our industry.” With fuel prices continuing to rise, Tweedie noted the burden extends beyond direct expenses. “It's all the indirect costs as well,” he said, pointing to broader increases across the board that have compounded the challenge for regional operators. The club has also had to remain flexible in its own planning, with a recent meeting shifted to Monday to avoid poor weather. “The last thing we wanted to do was roll the dice and have to turn everyone away, especially in the current climate,” Tweedie said. He pointed to individuals such as trainer and barrier attendant Michael Sparrow and clerk of the course Anita Walder as examples of the resilience within the local industry, adding that the additional support would ease the pressure on those juggling multiple roles.
O'Brien Gives Update on 1000 Guineas Favourite
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
Plans for Newmarket remain on track for Precise, with Aidan O'Brien expressing confidence that his star filly still has sufficient time to be readied for the Betfred 1,000 Guineas despite a recent interruption to her preparation. Last season's standout juvenile filly, Precise won four straight races after finishing second on debut at Fairyhouse, building from maiden success to black-type dominance with victories in the Prestige Stakes, Moyglare Stud Stakes and Fillies' Mile. Her emphatic Newmarket success over a mile cemented her position at the head of the Guineas market, where she remains a clear favourite as Ballydoyle chases an eighth win in the fillies' Classic. At a public workout at the Curragh on Sunday, however, she was restricted to an easy canter alongside a lead horse as O'Brien continues to rebuild her fitness following a minor setback. "Precise had a temperature a couple of weeks ago, so we had to just back off her and slowly build her back up," he said. "She hasn't done a lot for the last couple of weeks and she went to the Curragh for a day out. "If she comes out of that well, she'll have plenty of time to be trained for the 1,000 Guineas, and she was forward enough at the stage [of the infection]. She had a good level of fitness before we had to back off her and the next couple of weeks will tell a lot. She only cantered up with a lead horse at the Curragh and we were very happy with her." While Precise remains central to Ballydoyle's Guineas hopes, O'Brien also provided fresh insight into his colts' division after Albert Einstein's surprise defeat in Saturday's Gladness Stakes. Once a leading fancy for the 2,000 Guineas, the colt has drifted sharply in the betting and could yet be redirected to sprinting, though O'Brien has not ruled out allowing him another chance to prove himself at a mile. "We obviously thought he was very quick and with those horses that have that speed and are quick thinkers, it's usually hard to get them to go slow enough to get a mile," he said. "It would be very easy to make him a very fast horse. Sometimes it's hard to go against nature, so it's possible he could go back sprinting." Even if Albert Einstein bypasses Newmarket, Ballydoyle still appears well stocked. Gstaad, who was partnered by Ryan Moore in Sunday's work, and Puerto Rico remain firmly in the Classic picture, with O'Brien suggesting Moore's decision to ride Gstaad may yet prove significant. "Ryan was riding Gstaad this morning and he had it in his head that he could be the horse for Newmarket," he said. "Obviously, Puerto Rico is there, and we'll see how they come out of the work and see how Albert Einstein is as well."
Bargain Buy a Country Championship Threat
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
What began as a spare-thought purchase on Mother's Day in 2023 has developed into a genuine Country Championships opportunity for Port Macquarie trainer Robbie Agnew, whose bargain buy Show 'Em Howl will line up in Saturday's $1 million Final at Royal Randwick. The former jockey had gone into the Gold Yearling Sales with a budget of $30,000 to secure a Thronum youngster, but when that job was done and Pony Soprano had been bought, an unexpected opening presented itself. Agnew recalled still watching the sale from his mother Sharon's place when a Showtime yearling failed to reach a modest reserve. "I was at my mum Sharon's for Mother's Day watching the sales with a budget to buy a yearling which is now Pony Soprano," he said. "When we got him for what we did, I kept watching the sale and saw a Showtime yearling go through that didn't make his reserve of $5,000. So I made a call to get him provided he passed the vets and here we are." That impromptu decision has proven an astute one, with Show 'Em Howl progressing into a four-time winner whose earnings have climbed to $179,000, while giving his stable a live chance in one of the most valuable country features on the calendar. Although quoted at $26 for Saturday's assignment, Agnew is far from daunted by the challenge and believes the chestnut deserves his place in the contest. "We are going there as a genuine top three chance," he said. "Chidiac and Considered are the two top chances but with a bit of tempo on I'm confident we can figure right in the finish." For Agnew, who moved from the saddle to the training ranks in 2020, the Country Championships represent more than a payday. They are a showcase for country stables and a yardstick by which regional horses can be measured. "It's a great incentive for the country trainers to race for such great prize money," he said. "Obviously there's a lot of water to go under the bridge to get there. If you've got a genuine Highway class horse that's in the mix you can measure up." A major asset in Saturday's tilt will again be apprentice Anna Roper, who has partnered Show 'Em Howl in each of his four wins. Agnew values that understanding, particularly with a horse that has his own way of doing things. "They get along great, Anna knows him like the back of her hand," he said. "He's not a quiet horse. He has his quirks so it's great they click so well." Should the pair salute, Show 'Em Howl would become one of the race's great bargain-buy stories and hand Port Macquarie its first Country Championships success since Victorem in 2018.
NZB National Online Sale is Now Live
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
A digital marketplace that continues to gather momentum has returned for another year, with the latest edition of New Zealand Bloodstock’s National Online Yearling Sale now live and offering a 104-lot catalogue through Gavelhouse Plus. The six-year-old concept has rapidly evolved into a credible pathway to racetrack success, and early indicators suggest this year’s offering will again attract strong interest from buyers seeking value and upside. Since its inception, the online format has delivered tangible results on the track, with 169 runners producing 159 wins, including elite-level performers. Among those to emerge from the platform are unbeaten Group 1 winner Well Written, who captured both the TAB Karaka Millions 3YO and the NZB Kiwi, alongside Listed winner De Armas and Gr2 Eight Carat Classic victor Hitabell. Those outcomes have helped reshape perceptions of the digital sale, elevating it from an alternative marketplace to a genuine source of top-tier talent. A key driver behind that success lies in the incentives attached to each offering. Every lot catalogued is eligible for the Karaka Millions Series, creating a clear pathway from online purchase to major raceday opportunities within a relatively short timeframe. Graduates are able to target the 2027 $1 million TAB Karaka Millions 2YO before progressing to the 2028 $1.5 million 3YO edition, with additional upside provided through the NZB Mega Maiden Bonus Series. NZB Bloodstock Sales Manager Kane Jones pointed to the increasing quality of entries as a defining feature of the sale’s growth. “There have been a number of outstanding prospects come out of this online session, particularly in the past 24 months,” he said. “Vendors are aiming quality yearlings towards this Sale and horses like the superstar Well Written and the incredibly promising De Armas are a real testament to that.” He added that the improving strength of pedigrees is creating genuine buying opportunities. “The quality of pedigrees assembled for the Sale continues to improve and there is no doubt that there are plenty of opportunities to secure some future stars in this year’s offering.” Vendor support has again been strong, with consignors from across New Zealand presenting progeny by a broad range of established and emerging stallions. Buyers will find representation from proven names such as Ace High, Alabama Express, Per Incanto, Proisir, Satono Aladdin, So You Think and Tassort, alongside younger sires including Ardrossan, Armory, Circus Maximus, Noverre, Profondo and Sword of State. Bidding is scheduled to open on Friday, April 10, with the sale concluding from 6pm (NZT) on Tuesday, April 14. Prospective buyers are required to register in advance via Gavelhouse Plus, with NZB agents available to assist throughout the process. On-farm parades will also be staged in the lead-up, offering an additional layer of inspection for those seeking further confidence before engaging in the virtual ring.
Undefeated Well Written (Race Images Therese Davies)
