NEWS UPDATES Japan Horses Cleared For Melb Cup Return Phar Lap Heads Field In "Greatest Melb Cup Never Run" Bart Books Boss For Faint Perfume In 2010 Melb Cup Melb Cup Contender Shoot Out "Ready To Fire 1st-Up" O'Shea Aims Jessicabeel & Zabrasive At Melb Cup Mr Charlie Joins Moody For Melb Cup Campaign 1st Metro Win For $1m Encosta Filly 4th Win For $750k Danehill Dancer Son Winning Debut For $310k Commands Filly Commands Leads Aust Individual Winners Table On 141 (more>>) Take a minute to visit our new Luxury Leisure & Lifestyle portal, the complete guide to all things luxury. INDUSTRY NEWS — JULY 2003 Flemington Flood Threatens Melbourne Cup Flemington racecourse manager Terry Watson warned “Melbourne’s spring racing carnival may be at risk if the swollen Maribyrnong River bursts its banks,” reported The Sydney Morning Herald. Yesterday’s Flemington meeting was abandoned after 53 millimetres of rain soaked the track & Watson “is monitoring weather maps & studying the impact of tides as the river threatens to spill onto the course.” The track was out of action for 6 months in 1974 when flood waters devastated the course. As heavy rain fell across Victoria yesterday, Watson said his staff would be unable to prepare a satisfactory surface for the Melbourne Cup if the river’s banks broke this week: “It’s a time bomb. We’ve got no way of protecting ourselves. In 1974 the banks broke & it took from mid-May until October before we could race again. If it happens this week, there’s no way we could make the 1st Tuesday in November.” (July 31) Reel Buddy Wins UK Gr1 Sussex Stakes Veteran UK jockey Pat Eddery piloted 5YO 20-1 outsider Reel Buddy (Mr Greeley-Rosebud, by Indian Ridge) to a surprise wet-track victory in the Gr1 Sussex Stakes (1 mile) at Goodwood overnight, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Reel Buddy (trained by Richard Hannon) defeated 3YO US$1.3 million 2001 Keeneland September Yearling Sale buy Statue Of Liberty (Storm Cat-Charming Lassie, by Grey Lad) & another 3YO Norse Dancer (Halling-River Patrol, by Rousillon). Among the also-rans were Godolphin’s 4YO Dubai World Cup winner Moon Ballad (Singspiel-Velvet Moon, by Shaadi), plus fellow Gr1 winners Zafeen & Spartacus. A 23,000 guineas bargain-buy at the Doncaster St Leger Yearling Sale, Reel Buddy has now won 9 races (including 4 stakes) in 33 starts & earned £426,578 (A$1.06 million). Bred in Kentucky by Stronach Stables, Reel Buddy’s multiple Gr1-winning sire Mr Greeley (Gone West-Long Legend, by Reviewer) stands at Bruce Kline's Spendthrift Farm in Kentucky, and stood one season in Australia where he sired Gr1 winner Miss Kournikova. (July 31) Dr Fong’s Brother Takes UK Stakes Meanwhile Abdullah Buhaleeba's 2YO colt Lucky Story (Kris S-Spring Flight, by Miswaki) won the Vintage Stakes (7 furlongs) at Goodwood, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Lucky Story (bred by WinStar Farm in Kentucky) has now won 3 of his 4 starts. He is a full brother to former Widden Stud shuttler & Gr1 St James Palace Stakes winner Dr Fong, a freshman sire in Europe this season. Runner-up behind Lucky Story was Michael Tabor’s US$2.5 million colt The Mighty Tiger (Storm Cat-Clear Mandate, by Deputy Minister). (July 31) Arrowfield’s Orientate Arrives For 1st Aust Season Arrowfield Stud’s 2002 world Champion Sprinter Orientate has completed his 1st season at Kentucky’s famous Gainesway Stud, serving 141 mares for 129 pregnancies (a fertility rate over 90%). Orientate has now arrived safely at the Australian Quarantine facility at Eastern Creek in western Sydney in preparation for his 1st Southern Hemisphere season at Arrowfield’s Scone property in the NSW Hunter Valley. Orientate won 10 of his 19 career starts (including 5 stakes victories in 90 days during the 2002 season). He was subsequently voted US Eclipse Award Winner in the Sprint Division & Top Sprinter on the International Classifications (where he was rated 124lbs, the equal of Australian champion Northerly). Orientate’s 1st season fee in Australia is $33,000 (including GST) . (July 31) Sydney Premiership Winners: Waterhouse & Beadman Gai Waterhouse equalled her legendary father Tommy Smith's long-standing Sydney trainers' record in the last race of the 2002-03 season at Warwick Farm yesterday. Smith notched 156 winners in 1975-76 & Waterhouse added 2 victories yesterday to equal that tally. Waterhouse won from John Hawkes (150.5) , Guy Walter, John O’Shea & Clarrie Conners. Darren Beadman finished the season with a record 141 wins to set a new mark in the jockeys’ premiership, ahead of Chris Munce (97), Corey Brown, Glen Boss & Danny Beasley. (July 31) Melbourne Premiership Winners: McEvoy & McEvoy Kerrin McEvoy (who missed 2 months while riding for the Godolphin stable in Dubai) notched his 1st Melbourne jockeys' premiership with 62 winners, 3 ahead of apprentice Craig Newitt, followed by Damien Oliver (who didn’t ride for the last 6 weeks of the season), Greg Childs & Danny Nikolic. Meanwhile McEvoy's uncle Tony McEvoy won his 1st Melbourne trainers' premiership since taking over the reins as Lindsay Park's head trainer (following the tragic death of Peter Hayes in March 2001); McEvoy recorded 67 wins, ahead of John Hawkes, David Hall, Lee Freedman & Brian Mayfield-Smith. (July 31) Brisbane Premiership Winners: Purton & Bailey Leading apprentice Zac Purton, 20, won the Brisbane jockeys’ premiership with 59 winners (despite spending almost 6 months sidelined with injury & suspensions during the season), ahead of fellow apprentice Michael Rodd on 53 & Glen Colless, Scott Galloway & John Powell. And Gold Coast trainer Alan Bailey wrapped up his 2nd Brisbane trainers’ premiership with 50 wins, 4 clear of John Hawkes; they were followed by Gerald Ryan, Brian Guy & Bruce McLachlan. (July 31) Adelaide Premiership Winners: McEvoy & Holder Lindsay Park’s head trainer Tony McEvoy also won the Adelaide trainers’ premiership with 68 wins, ahead of Leon Macdonald, Philip Stokes & David Balfour. And Jason Holder took the jockeys’ title ahead of Simon Price, apprentice Matt Nielson & Joe Bowditch. (July 31) Perth Premiership Winners: Harvey & Parnham Paul Harvey won the Perth jockeys’ premiership with 103 winners, more than double his nearest rivals Jason Whiting, Paul King & Tak Ikenushi. And Neville Parnham took the trainers title with 33 winners, ahead of Northerly’s master Fred Kersley, Lou Luciani & John Price. (July 31) Boljun Relocates To Canberra Stables NSW South Coast trainer Rado Boljun has relocated his 30-horse team from Moruya to Canberra & will saddle his 1st starters at Canberra tomorrow. Rado purchased an existing stable complex on-course & carried out extensive renovations prior to moving in. (July 31) Toowoomba Opens Betting Ring The Toowoomba Turf Club has set aside 25 years of tradition by declaring an open betting ring for future meetings. TTC chairman Neville Stewart said the decision aims to invigorate betting activity at Toowoomba: “By opening the ring, we are hoping there will be a rush of new blood & a better deal for punters.” (July 31) Horlicks Returns To Stravinsky NZ’s 1989 Japan Cup winner Horlicks will return to Cambridge Stud shuttle stallion Stravinsky this year. The rising 20-year-old mare is due to give birth to a Stravinsky foal in November. The mare’s Hastings owner Graham de Gruchy told thoroughbrednews.co.nz: "I’m most impressed by what Stravinsky is achieving with his 1st crop of runners in the Northern Hemisphere this year & it makes sense to send Horlicks to him again." Stravinsky is the sire of 14 individual 2YO winners in the Northern Hemisphere this year. Horlicks won 6 Gr1 races: the Japan Cup, Mackinnon Stakes in Melbourne, the Television NZ Stakes (twice) & NZ’s DB Draught Classic (twice). She has proved herself an accomplished broodmare as the dam of Gr1 2000 Melbourne Cup winner Brew (by Sir Tristram). (July 31) NZ Premiership Winners: O’Sullivan & O’Sullivan Champion jockey Lance O'Sullivan ended the 2002-03 season with a flourish by riding 3 winners at Tauranga to seal a record 12th NZ premiership with 159 victories. In the NZ trainers' premiership, Paul O'Sullivan won with 82 wins (prior to today’s final Hawke's Bay meeting). (July 31) Ipi Tombe Out For The Season International turf star Ipi Tombe (Manshood-Carnet De Danse, by Dance In Time) will miss the rest of the US season “to recover from a minor leg injury suffered during a routine 4-furlong breeze at Churchill Downs” a month ago. Trainer Elliott Walden told thoroughbredtimes.com: "We’ve trained her the last couple of weeks & everything has been going along fine, but the leg doesn’t look quite right. Running her in either the Gr1 Arlington Million or Gr1 Beverly D Stakes (both on August 16) has been our main objective since the moment she arrived at our barn this spring, & we’re extremely disappointed that we won’t be there. She rapped herself pretty good in a very sensitive area, where there is quite a bit of soft tissue. We tried to make a go of it, but her safety comes first. Once you finalise a decision like this, you wind up feeling good about it because you know you’re doing right by the horse. She’ll be back as good as ever next year." The 5YO Zimbabwe-bred mare (now owned in partnership by Team Valor, WinStar Farms & Sunmark Partners) has won 12 of 14 starts, including the Gr1 Dubai Duty Free on Dubai World Cup day for South African trainer Mike de Kock. (July 31) US Hall-Of-Fame 1: Latest Entries Joining the 166 horses, 81 jockeys & 76 trainers enshrined in the US Racing Hall-Of-Fame at Saratoga Springs in New York this year “will be 2 people & 2 horses who excelled during the Breeders’ Cup World Thoroughbred Championships,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The late trainer Hubert ‘Sonny’ Hine & champions Dance Smartly & Precisionist all have a Breeders’ Cup victory, while jockey Mike Smith has 10 wins in the championship events. The 2003 inductees will be honored in ceremonies on August 4 at the Fasig-Tipton sale pavilion in Saratoga Springs. (July 31) US Hall-Of-Fame 2: Hubert ‘Sonny’ Hine Trainer Sonny Hine, who died in March 2000, saddled Horse-Of-The-Year Skip Away to win the 1997 Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Classic. He notched 1,305 career winners & earnings of more than US$28.5 million. Hine, who also trained sprint champion Guilty Conscience, was selected over fellow trainers Mel Stute & John Veitch. (July 31) US Hall-Of-Fame 3: Mike Smith Jockey Mike Smith, whose career mount earnings are nearly US$157 million, rides reigning US Horse-Of-The-Year Azeri & piloted 1994 Horse-Of-The-Year Holy Bull. Overall (from 1982 to 23 July 23 2003) he had 25,542 starts for 4,248 wins (50 Gr1 victories). He was leading jockey in New York in 1991, 1992 & 1993; has won 7 riding titles at Belmont Park; 5 riding titles at Aqueduct; 3 riding titles at Saratoga Race Course; rode 6 winners in a day at Aqueduct twice; & also rode 5 winners in a day at Saratoga. The New Mexico native was chosen over Eddie Maple & Randy Romero. (July 31) US Hall-Of-Fame 4: Dance Smartly Dance Smartly (Danzig-Classy ‘n Smart, by Smarten) became the 1st Canadian-bred to win a Breeders’ Cup race when she captured the Gr1 Distaff in 1991. That victory made Dance Smartly North American racing’s then richest distaff earner (she is now 3rd behind Spain & Serena’s Song) & capped an undefeated season in which she became the only filly to win the Canadian Triple Crown. She was also Sovereign Award winner as Canadian Horse-Of-The-year & champion 3YO filly in 1991, champion 2YO filly in 1990, Broodmare-Of-The-Year in 2001, & US Eclipse Award winner as champion 3YO filly in 1991. Dance Smartly had 12 wins & 5 placings in 17 starts for earnings of US$3,263,835. She was chosen over Flawlessly & Sky Beauty. (July 31) US Hall-Of-Fame 5: Precisionist Precisionist (Crozier-Excellently, by Forli), who competed in the 1st 3 runnings of the Breeders’ Cup, showed his versatility in 1985 when he won the Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Sprint (6 furlongs) & Gr1 Charles H. Strub Stakes (10 furlongs). Florida-bred Precisionist had 46 starts for 20 wins (also including the Gr1 Swaps Stakes, Gr1 San Fernando Stakes, Gr1 Woodward Stakes & Gr1 Californian Stakes) & 14 placings for earnings of US $3,485,398. He was Champion sprinter in 1985 & set 1-mile track records of 1min 32.8sec at Hollywood Park & 1min 33.2sec at Del Mar. Precisionist was voted in over Ancient Title & Manila. (July 31) US Jockey Joe Judice Lands 3,000th Winner Meanwhile US jockey Joe Judice “flashed 3 fingers up to symbolise his 3,000th career victory” when he guided Privateer across the finish line at Great Lakes Downs, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Judice, a 41-year-old Louisiana native & 26-year veteran in the saddle, currently has 182 victories from 859 mounts this year, ranking him 4th among America’s jockeys in terms of victories (behind Russell Baze with 252, Ramon Dominguez with 243 wins & Ryan Fogelsonger with 208). Judice began his career in 1977 at the now-defunct Jefferson Downs near New Orleans & has been among Michigan’s leading jockeys for several years. (July 31) Mutakddim Pulled From Argentina Shuttle Duty Kentucky stallion Mutakddim, sire of Gr1 winner Lady Tak, will no longer shuttle to Argentina for the Southern Hemisphere season, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 12-year-old son of Seeking The Gold had shuttled to Haras La Quebrada in Pilar (a providence of Buenos Aires) & his 3 Southern Hemisphere crops of racing age include Gr1 winners Refine, Lac Azur, Symbolic, Nova Era, El Charlatan & Luna Real, along with 7 other stakes winners. Hill ‘n’ Dale Farm president John Sikura explained: "We are delighted at the outstanding job Haras La Quebrada has done in managing Mutakddim’s Southern Hemisphere career. But we feel that, with the level of success Mutakddim is enjoying, he is just too valuable & therefore have decided to keep him permanently in Kentucky & not shuttle him any longer." Mutakddim’s most successful US runner Lady Tak won last weekend’s Gr1 Test Stakes (7 furlongs) for 3YO fillies at Saratoga Race Course by 4.5 lengths in stakes-record time of 1min 20.83sec; she has won 6 of 9 career starts. Overall, Mutakddim has 21 stakes winners from 186 starters in 4 crops of racing age & progeny earnings of US$7,398,558. He stood for US$6,500 at Hill ‘n’ Dale this northern spring. Mutakddim is the only stakes winner from 5 winners out of winning Seattle Slew mare Oscillate (daughter of Gr1 winner Dance Number & half-sister to champion & sire Rhythm). (July 31) Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Summer Sale Highlights Fasig-Tipton officials “breathed a sigh of relief after a solid renewal of their Kentucky July Yearling Sale 2 weeks ago,” noted racingpost.co.uk. “But they can be forgiven for holding their collective breath again as their showpiece, the Saratoga Summer Yearling Sale, rolls around next week.” Last year’s Saratoga auction “was a dismal experience for most involved” with the aggregate dropping 43.5%, average down 34.7% & median falling 23.4% from the record levels of 2000; in addition the buy-back rate rose from 19.4% to 29% & only 2 lots sold over US$1 million (compared to 9 the year before). However this year “the economic outlook seems to have steadied, & sales appear to be adjusting to the lack of star sire power from the likes of Danzig, Mr Prospector, Nureyev & Seattle Slew. In fact, the ever-evolving market seems to be taking advantage of a vacuum in the sire ranks by offering an increasing number of products by unproven sires.” Among the eye-catching pedigrees in the catalogue are: Storm Cat-Jewel Princess (Key To The Mint) filly Fusaichi Pegasus-Pacheca (Storm Creek) colt A.P.Indy-Strawberry Reason (Strawberry Road) colt Forty Niner-Super Dress (Storm Cat) colt Thunder Gulch-Turbo Launch (Relaunch) filly Chester House-Camargo (Brief Truce) colt Giant’s Causeway-Diamond White (Robellino) colt Coronado’s Quest-Fairy Queen (Fairy King) filly Zafonic-Greenvera (Riverman) colt (July 31) Mud Route Yearling Colt Tops Idaho Sale American Mud, a yearling colt by Strawberry Road stallion Mud Route (from 10-year-old winning Pumpkin Moonshine mare Soonermoon), brought top price of US$7,750 at the Idaho Thoroughbred Association mixed sale reported bloodhorse.com. (July 31) Sangster’s Ascot Winner Attracts Aust Interest When Robert Sangster’s promising 3YO Sadler’s Wells gelding Adopted Hero won his 2nd race from 4 starts in a 12-furlong handicap at Ascot in England last weekend, it triggered wide interest among the Australasian breeding industry. A half-brother to Gr3 VATC Blue Diamond Prelude winner Freedom Fields (by Bluebird), Adopted Hero is the 9th foal from stakes-winning Noble Bijou mare Lady Liberty. “Bloodstock agent Joss Collins purchased Lady Liberty for $80,000, on behalf of Sangster, as a yearling in NZ,” noted racenet.com.au. A daughter of Sovereign Edition, Lady Liberty carried the Sangster colours to a 7-length victory in the 1988 Gr1 SA Oaks at Morphetville; she also won the Gr3 Adrian Knox Stakes at Randwick (defeating top class filly Bravery, who went on to win both the Gr1 Queensland Derby & Gr1 Queensland Oaks that season) & also finished runner-up to Savannah City in the Gr1 AJC Oaks at Randwick. Lady Liberty’s 1st foal Freedom Fields won both the Gr3 VATC Blue Diamond Prelude & Listed Foodtown Savings Plate & was runner-up in the Listed VRC Gibson Carmichael Stakes; the daughter of Bluebird is the dam of Bart Cummings-trained Zabeel colt Liberty Hall (winner of 3 races & placed in the Gr1 AJC Spring Champion Stakes). Sangster transferred Lady Liberty to his European base at Swettenham Stud, where she produced Royal Academy colt Equal Rights (whose 5-start career included victory in the Gr3 Futurity Stakes at The Curragh in Ireland, plus 3rd in the Gr3 Vintage Stakes at Goodwood & 4th behind Gr1 Epsom Derby (G1) winner Benny The Dip in the Gr2 Royal Lodge Stakes at Ascot). (July 31) 1st Winner For UK Freshman Sire Kirkwall UK freshman sire Kirkwall recorded his 1st winner when his 2YO colt Orcadian won over 6 furlongs at Royal Windsor, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Kirkwall, a 9YO multiple stakes winner who stands at Littleton Stud near Hampshire in England, won 8 of 22 career starts for owner-breeder Juddmonte Farms; after racing in France for trainer Andre Fabre (where he won the 1997 Gr2 Prix Eugene Adam & Gr3 Prix de Guiche), Kirkwall transferred to Bobby Frankel when he went to the US in 1999 (where he duly won the 1999 Gr2 Shadwell Keeneland Turf Mile Stakes, Gr3 Bay Meadows Handicap & Gr3 Tanforan Handicap). The son of Selkirk is 1 of 4 winners from 6 starters out of placed Northern Dancer mare Kamkova & is from the family of classic winner Temperence Hill & champion Vanlandingham. Orcadian is 1 of 16 foals from Kirkwall’s 1st crop of racing age. (July 31) UK Trainer Simpson Takes New Position In UAE UK trainer Rod Simpson begins “a new chapter in his snakes & ladders training career” tomorrow when he takes over a stable of around 40 horses in the United Arab Emirates for Saeed Maktoum al Maktoum, reported racingpost.co.uk. (His new boss is best known in Britain as the owner of Lammtarra, winner of the English Derby, King George And Queen Elizabeth Stakes & French Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe). Simpson, 57, said of his new position at Jebel Ali Palace Stables: "I'll be training a mixed stable of locally bred arabs, some pure-bred arabs & around 20 thoroughbreds." Simpson, who previously trained for fearless gambler Terry Ramsden & occupied more than a dozen different yards in the UK, has been in the UAE for 2.5 years; he trained 12 winners in his 1st season & 9 in his 2nd. (July 31) UK Owners Gain New Breeding Bonus Owners who race horses bred in Britain “are being put on a similar footing to their counterparts in France & Ireland for the first time from January 1, when they will qualify for a premium of 25 or 50% on top of the prize-money in most races,” reported racingpost.co.uk. The British Horseracing Board has approved a recommendation from the racing review committee to introduce owners' premiums “which will cost £1.1 million in the 1st year & £3.5m in 2005, & are intended to bolster the British breeding industry”. The racing review committee noted the British breeding industry “had been in decline for a decade”, & that the recent expansion in the number of horses in training “had been largely supplied from Ireland, where tax breaks worked in favour of breeders”. A statement from the BHB said introducing owners’ premiums “would put British breeding on a more level playing field with Ireland, & help to support British-based stallion & mare owners by encouraging owners to buy British-breds”. BHB chairman Peter Savill commented: “We must take every possible step to develop our breeding industry, which has been in decline in recent years but continues to have the foundations of a strong infrastructure.” Racehorse Owners Association chief executive Michael Harris added the premium scheme represented a “win-win situation” for British racing & breeding, noting: “As this scheme is based on additional money being found by the BHB, & is not being funded from the existing prize-money pool, it is great news for British owners & breeders.” (July 31) New Tax Policies Bolster French Racing Industry Meanwhile a bill intended to “improve the economics of the French racing industry” has been announced by government officials, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The measure, which changes the status of the racing industry to an agricultural endeavor, is expected to pass the French Parliament in October. Among changes to current tax policies is “a significant reduction in the limited value added tax on all training fees: to 5.5% rather than 19.6% currently in place.” Minister Of Budget Alain Lambert summed up: "Our purpose is to help the French horse business compete with the world leaders & to create a better economic environment for our equestrian & racing activities to grow bigger and better." (July 31) UK Jockeys Chase Film Careers Wednesday Odd Spot: US Racing Hall-Of-Fame jockey & Seabiscuit movie star Gary Stevens “apparently is not the only rider tempted by the lure of the silver screen,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. British jockey Eugene Husband & former UK riders Derrick Morris & Richard Painter “are attempting to secure roles in an up-coming Oliver Stone film based on the life of Alexander The Great, which starts shooting in Morocco” shortly. The trio recently auditioned for roles as mounted soldiers at Pinewood Studios in England. (July 31) Trainer Karakatsanis Cops 6-Month Drug Suspension Racing NSW stewards yesterday concluded their inquiry into the prohibited substance Irbesartan being detected in a sample taken from Full Limit following its win at Rosehill Gardens in Sydney on 29 June. Trainer Tony Karakatsanis pleaded guilty to a charge under AR178 of having brought Full Limit to the races with a prohibited substance, but denied administering the drug & was unable to explain how the horse came to have it in its system; he also told stewards he was not under treatment himself for high blood pressure & did not have access to the drug. After taking into account all the circumstances, & also bearing in mind that Karakatsanis had been found in breach of AR178 on 2 previous occasions in the past 7 years, stewards issued a penalty of 6 months suspension of his licence. (July 30) What is Irbesartan? NSW Thoroughbred Racing Board senior veterinarian Dr Craig Suann explained to the Full Limit-Kartakatsanis inquiry: “Irbesartan is 1 of the latest treatments in high blood pressure in humans & is only available on prescription. We can only hypothesise on the effects on a horse, as there have been no studies done. A low dose may possibly work on lowering a horse’s blood pressure, which would then increase blood flow to the working muscles. Another way it may work, & again we don’t really know, is that it may have the potential to lower blood pressure, which in turn would lessen the possibility of a horse with high blood pressure, suffering a bleeding attack. And this is only 1 of many theories that have been discussed concerning bleeders & I don’t know that this horse even has a history of bleeding. We also don’t know that, in contrast to a lower amount possibly improving a horse’s performance, a higher dose would have a ‘go slow’ affect. Again though, until studies are done, we won’t really know the full effects of the drug, & regardless, it would all be dose-dependent.” (July 30) Aspros & Heinrich Establish Sydney Bases Meanwhile the Australian Jockey Club has granted trainers Leanne Aspros & Gillian Heinrich permission to establish training bases at its Warwick Farm track in Sydney. AJC Racing Manager Colin Tuck told aapracingandsports.com.au both trainers will move officially to Warwick Farm “within the coming weeks” & he expects them to start their new stable base with a dozen boxes each. Aspros will be closing her current Bathurst operation to concentrate on establishing herself at Warwick Farm, while Heinrich will retain her current Gold Coast base & utilise Warwick Farm as a satellite stable. (July 30) Rory’s Jester Progeny Pass $40 Million Prize-Money Further to yesterday’s report re the 3YO Rory’s Jester colt Flying Ace extending his unbeaten record to 5 at Perak in Malaysia on the weekend: Rising 21-year-old Golden Slipper winner Rory’s Jester (who stands at Victoria’s Collingrove Stud for $27,500 including GST) has totalled over 550 individual winners & progeny earnings in excess of $40 million. He boasts over 75% winners-to-runners & an outstanding 16% of his named foals have become black type performers. His best performers on Australian racetracks include Aragen, Isca, Racer’s Edge, Chortle, North Boy, Spargo, It’s A Giggle, Moss Rocket, Catnipped, Toast Of The Coast, Apollo Wonder, Happy Giggle, Light Up The World, Tuscany Flyer, Armidale, Northern Song, Inspire, Rullene, Heaps Of Fun, How Funny, Pittsburgh Phil, On A Swing, Rosa’s Joy, Wyndam Glory, Scarlet Crown & Speed Week. He has also notched winners in NZ, Macau, England, Singapore, Malaysia, Canada, HK & the US. This season his progeny have particularly excited fans in HK, Singapore & Malaysia: as well as unbeaten Flying Ace in Malaysia, Rory’s Jester 3YO Ninetyfive Emperor is being touted as the best horse ever seen in Singapore after his 9th consecutive victory against a top field of open age sprinters at Kranji on Singapore Derby night a week ago; & in HK the Rory’s Jester gelding Wyndam Easy (trained by expatriate Australian David Hayes) collected a HK$1 million bonus as best performed graduate of the HK International Sale. (July 30) 11th Stakes Winner For Larneuk’s Archway Larneuk Stud stallion Archway recorded his 11th individual stakes winner when Roman Arch (Archway-Celestial Option) took the Listed John D. Lee Stakes at Cheltenham in Adelaide. It was 4YO Roman Arch’s 8th win in 25 starts & 4th in succession (plus a 3rd to champion sprinter Yell & Innovation Girl in the Gr1 Futurity Stakes at Caulfield after missing the start) to take his prize-money to just under $250,000. Archway is also the sire of recent winners Aldarch, Just The Part, King's Arch, Sonarchi, Archbishop, Fonome & Arch Liner. He currently boasts a 62.6% winners-to-runners strike rate & 89.5% of his named foals have made it to the track. A Super VOBIS stallion, Archway stands for $5,500 at Larneuk Stud at Euroa in Victoria. (July 30) New Veterinary Surgeon For Eliza Park Eliza Park has entered into an agreement with Goulburn Valley Equine Hospital to cover all veterinary services at Eliza Park. The agreement will see Dr Alan Clark take up the role of resident veterinarian from August 16 & support services provided by the Goulburn Valley team headed by Dr Jim Vasey & Dr Angus McKinnon. Dr Clark, who graduated from Edinburgh University in 1990, has since been involved in equine practice in Ireland, Australia & the Middle East; for the past 7 years, the main emphasis of his work has been stud medicine, & he has been a frequent ‘shuttler’ between northern & southern hemispheres for their alternate breeding seasons. With 9 stallions on the roster, Eliza Park is preparing for 1 of its busiest years to date. (July 30) Newcastle Bonus For AJC Feature Races The Newcastle Jockey Club & Australian Jockey Club have confirmed a spring carnival ‘owner incentive’ arrangement. For the 1st time, the winners of both the Tooheys New Newcastle Gold Cup & Hahn Premium Spring Stakes will be exempt from respective ballots for the AJC’s The Metropolitan & Spring Champion Stakes. Additionally, the NJC will pay the $4,290 acceptance fee for each of the 3 Newcastle Cup place-getters if they start in Gr1 The Metropolitan (2400m) at Randwick on October 6. Likewise, the NJC will pay the ($2,502.50) acceptance fee for each of the 3 Spring Stakes place-getters if they start in the Gr1 Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) at Randwick on October 4. The $175,000 Gr3 Newcastle Gold Cup (2300m) & $150,000 Gr3 Spring Stakes (1600m) will be run at Broadmeadow on Thursday 18 September 18 (2nd of the NJC’s 2-day spring carnival). All 6 place-getters (Time Off, Red Trinket & Danyon in the Newcastle Cup, plus Clangalang, Recruiting & Takas in the Spring Stakes) in the 2 Newcastle feature events last year duly contested The Metropolitan & Spring Champion Stakes respectively at Royal Randwick. NJC chief executive John Curtis welcomed the AJC committee’s approval of Newcastle’s proposal: “Our feature races are important lead-ups to Randwick’s major events. In sanctioning our proposal, the AJC has given us the opportunity to increase the quality of our fields & owners the opportunity to gain starts with their horses in The Metropolitan & Spring Champion Stakes without having to pay acceptance fees.” The Newcastle carnival kicks off on Wednesday 17 September 17 with the Hunter Star Motors Cameron Handicap (1400m), for which the winner is again exempt from ballot for the Gr1 AJC Epsom Handicap (1600m) at Randwick on October 4; trainer Gai Waterhouse won both races last year with Excellerator. (July 30) Victorian Bookies Push ‘Responsible Wagering Services’ The Victorian Bookmakers Association has confirmed its commitment to the National Code of Practice for Australian Bookmakers “for the responsible provision of wagering services”. VBA chairman Gavin Marantelli said: "The National Code was developed to promote guidelines & programs for the responsible delivery of the wagering product. The code included an agreement by bookmakers to provide wagering services in a manner that encourages responsible wagering patterns & behaviour, with a commitment to assist patrons who experience wagering related difficulties with information on, & direction to, appropriate support services." The Code of Practice is a voluntary code that operates in conjunction with Government legislation, regulations & the rules of the racing codes & sports betting authorities. (July 30) Volksraad Finishes NZ Season In Style NZ's champion sire Volksraad rounded off the 2002-03 season “in the manner he performed all season: siring winners,” noted thoroughbrednews.co.nz. The Tony & Lyn Prendergast-trained mare Green Light won at the weekend's Oamaru meeting to post the season’s 76th win by Volksraad progeny, who have also recorded 10 stakes wins & totalled almost NZ$1.2 million prize-money. Volksraad's achievements will see him once again honoured with the Grosvenor Award (leading NZ sire), to be presented at the Mercedes NZ Thoroughbred Racing Awards on Friday week. (July 30) Te Rapa Double For Star Way Meanwhile veteran stallion Star Way (Star Appeal-New Way, by Klairon), who is about to enter another season at stud in NZ, sired the winners of the final 2 races (She's A Madame & Ocean Way) on the weekend card at Te Rapa, reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. The Windsor Park sire's tally of stakes winners currently stands at 59, the latest when Gr2 winner Star Affair won the Travis Stakes at Te Rapa in April. Earlier in the season top-class Star Way mare Elevenses dead-heated in the Gr1 Captain Cook Stakes. (July 30) Windsor Park’s Volksraad Tops NZ Sires Table As the 2002-03 season concludes, the Top 20 on the NZ General Sires Table (by prize-money), according to NZ Thoroughbred Marketing, are: 1: Volksraad NZ$1,185,637. 2: Zabeel NZ$1,082,765. 3: O’Reilly NZ$948,621. 4: Desert Sun NZ$862,113. 5: Faltaat NZ$762,887. 6: Prized NZ$712,825. 7: Stark South NZ$699,770. 8: Al Akbar NZ$606,458. 9: Maroof NZ$535,493. 10: His Royal Highness NZ$505,395. 11: Lord Ballina NZ$485,009. 12: Deputy Governor NZ$466,608. 13: Shinko King NZ$463,465. 14: Danasinga NZ$450,842. 15: Centaine NZ$447,659. 16: Blues Traveller NZ$438,127. 17: Honor Grades NZ$399,466. 18: Victory Dance NZ$390,898. 19: King Of Kings NZ$383,340. 20: Bin Ajwaad NZ$363,339. (July 30) Charnwood Forest Adds UK Stakes Win Former Widden Stud shuttler (1997-2000) Charnwood Forest recorded a major winner on the opening day of England’s ‘Glorious Goodwood’ summer carnival overnight, when his 2YO colt Carrizo Creek (Charnwood Forest-Violet Spring, by Exactly Sharp) landed the Gr2 Richmond Stakes for trainer Brian Meehan & champion UK jockey Kieren Fallon. The juvenile “from the family of Rainbow Quest & Warning” was stepping up in class after wins at Brighton & Leopardstown, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. (July 30) Spotlight On Alamshar’s Sire Key Of Luck The sensational win by the Aga Khan's 3YO colt Alamshar over a top field of older horses in England’s premier weight-for-age event, the Gr1 King George VI And Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (12 furlongs) at Ascot, has focused attention upon his low-key sire Key Of Luck. “The son of Chief's Crown stands, not in one of Ireland's more fashionable breeding sheds, but in a serene corner of County Meath called Tara Stud,” reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Owned by Billy & Derek Iceton, Tara has been breeding horses since 1906. Its current star stallion Key Of Luck (owned in partnership between Gainsborough & Tara Studs) is a 3/4-brother to top international sire & Widden Stud shuttler Anabaa; Key of Luck shares his dam Balbonella with both Anabaa & French 1000 Guineas winner Always Loyal (by Zilzal). Key of Luck’s other recent stakes winners include Lucky Pipit, Miss Emma & Wrong Key among a 3rd crop “bulging with winners”. (July 30) US Boost For Vinery’s Red Ransom This week’s opening day at Del Mar in the US provided a timely boost for Vinery stallion Red Ransom. The Champion shuttler, whose best book in Australia will debut this spring, was represented by 3 runners in the Listed Oceanside Stakes (1 mile on turf) for 3YOs, this year run in 2 divisions. Red Ransom (Roberto-Arabia) had a top-3 finisher in both: Requite finished 3rd in the 1st division; & European stakes winner Fairly Ransom made his US debut & came within a half-length of victory in the 2nd division, after trailing the field for the first half-mile. (He is being touted a star of the future.) (July 30) Coolmore’s Peintre Celebre Hot In Europe Meanwhile Coolmore shuttler Peintre Celebre continues to grab headlines across the northern hemisphere. His 2YO stars include: the Mark Johnston-trained Pearl Of Love (all-the-way winner in England’s Listed Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot & now aimed at September’s Gr1 National Stakes at The Curragh in Ireland); Johnston’s Mister Monet (runaway 4-length winner on debut this month at Sandown in England); & John Dunlop’s exciting Mutahayya (2-length winner on debut & regarded as a Derby horse for next year). His 1st crop 3YOs include: Dai Jin (winner of the recent Gr1 German Derby); & Super Celebre (a Gr2 winner this season & runner-up in both France’s Gr1 Prix Lupin & Gr1 French Derby). Peintre Celebre currently heads all European 2nd crop sires by earnings, by winners & by stakes wins. In the past week alone, Peintre Celebre has added 5 winners in 4 countries: Aidan O’Brien’s 3YO colt Carpanetto in Ireland; Michael Moroney’s 2YO filly Artemesia in NZ; 3YO colt Heian Celebre in Japan; 3YO colt Joe Bear in England: & 3YO filly Begin The Beguine also in England. (July 30) US Freshman Sire Malibu Moon Starts Quickly US freshman sire Malibu Moon’s 1st crop hit the track this year & he has “already sired 4 winners from 6 starters” (including Gr3 Hollywood Juvenile Championship Stakes winner Perfect Moon) reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Overall his progeny have posted 5 wins in their initial 15 starts. Malibu Moon showed promise as a juvenile when he won his 2nd career start (5 furlongs in 57.41sec at Hollywood Park), but a knee injury sent him to the breeding shed as a 3YO; now a 6YO, the son of A.P.Indy has stood all 4 of his seasons at Country Life Farm in Maryland. Country Life business manager Michael Pons commented: "We didn’t expect to see so much speed & precocity, but we got them both, & it’s been very exciting. We figured most of his running would happen in the fall. Mel Stute (who trains Perfect Moon) is very high on another Malibu Moon in his barn too." Wayne Hughes bred Malibu Moon after privately purchasing the stallion’s dam, the Mr Prospector mare Macoumba, in foal to A.P.Indy. Hughes then campaigned Malibu Moon during his brief career before opting to stand him at Country Life Farm while retaining a part ownership. Pons added: "He probably has the best hip of any stallion east of Kentucky. One thing I really like about him is that he has a certain look to him. When you go to Timonium or Keeneland, you know which babies belong to him. He clearly stamps his babies & that really helps." His dam Macoumba won the French Gr1 Prix Marcel Boussac Criterium des Pouliches & is 1 of 9 winners (including 5 stakes winners) out of Green Dancer mare Maximova. (July 30) Cigar’s Half-Sister Wins At Del Mar Life’s Pleasures, a 3YO half sister to 2-time US Horse-Of-The-Year Cigar, recorded her 1st win (by 5 lengths over 1 mile) at Del Mar, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Trained by Simon Bray for Mercedes Stables & Madeleine Paulson, Life’s Pleasures (Deputy Minister-Solar Slew, by Seattle Slew) is the 10th foal from Solar Slew; all 7 of her starters have won. In addition to Cigar, she also produced Mulca (a daughter of Raised Socially who earned champion imported 3YO filly honors in Puerto Rico in 1991). Solar Slew aborted a foal by Kingmambo this year & was barren to Fusaichi Pegasus in 2002. (July 30) California Owners Seek On-Track Gaming Expansion Concerned that purse increases in New York “could prompt an exodus of owners & trainers from California”, the Thoroughbred Owners of California “plans to seek legislation within the next 2 months for authorisation of expanded gaming at the state’s tracks,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. TOC President John Van de Kamp confirmed his group would approach state legislators “before the current session ends on September 12. We’re still in the planning process & it’s a very sensitive issue, but we have to move very quickly," Van de Kamp said. "It’s a much tougher issue here than probably anywhere else in the country, because the Indian groups have been intent on preventing growth of the racing industry here." Van de Kamp noted new sources of revenue are “critical for California racing” & he expects a jump in purses at the New York Racing Association’s 3 racetracks “following the installation of video lottery terminals at 8 racetracks in the state, including NYRA’s Aqueduct.” He summed up: "There’s been a confluence of events that have made it hard for trainers to stay here & I think the situation in New York will make it that much harder," referring also to the workers’ compensation crisis in California. (July 30) California Trainers Head For New York The California versus New York issue is attracting major headlines in US racing. Hall-Of-Fame trainers Bobby Frankel & D. Wayne Lukas “have already scaled back in Southern California & increased their presence in New York,” noted thoroughbredtimes.com. Frankel was based at Hollywood Park, but shifted most of his top horses to New York in May, citing escalating expenses & dissatisfaction with the stakes programs at Hollywood & Del Mar; he sent out just 1 stakes winner during the Hollywood spring-summer meet after winning 8 there last year. And Lukas is skipping the Hollywood & Del Mar meets, the 1st time he has not had a stable in Southern California since 1978. (July 30) EEE Virus Kills 5 North Carolina Horses The mosquito-borne virus Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis (also known as ‘equine sleeping sickness’) has killed 5 horses &”infected as many as 32 horses” in North Carolina, reported bloodhorse.com. The disease “kills 90% of all horses it infects”; although rare in humans, “it kills about a third of those infected & can cause brain damage in those who survive”. The 32 official cases of the disease reported by state agriculture officials “don't reflect the true number of infected horses”, revealed Southeastern Veterinary Hospital physician Curt Locklear. He noted he had seen 6 days of the virus in the past week, compared to a half dozen all of last year. "I've never seen it this bad," Locklear said, adding he saw 3 cases Monday, with 2 of those animals dying within 24 hours of showing symptoms; he noted those cases are still termed unofficial, because blood samples have to be shipped to the Department of Agriculture for lab work. Some horse owners choose not to have the blood work done & Locklear said he knows of 20-25 horses that have died from the virus in Robeson County alone. (July 30) US Miler Fighting Falcon Joins WA’s Fairfields Stud Sally Oakes, principal of Fairfields Stud at North Dandalup in Western Australia, has acquired US turf performer Fighting Falcon to stand the 2003 stud season under the care of stud master Barry Shade. Fighting Falcon replaces the stud’s flagship sire Chanteclair, who recently succumbed to a sudden colic attack aged 20. Fighting Falcon won 5 US races (all on turf) from 20 starts, including the Gr3 Cinema Handicap at Hollywood Park & 2 other stakes races (all at 1 mile). He also recorded 4 2nds, among them a half-length runner-up to Val Royal in the Gr2 Del Mar Derby & a head 2nd to Ladies Din in the Gr2 San Francisco Breeders Cup Mile in track record time. (Both Val Royal & Ladies Din went on to Gr1 Breeders Cup wins, the former winning the prestigious mile in the fastest time ever.) Fighting Falcon's other placings included a 2nd in the Gr1 Hollywood Derby behind Super Quercus, & a 3rd in the Gr3 Bay Meadows Derby. Fighting Falcon is by champion US grass horse Manila, winner of the Gr1 Breeders Cup Turf Stakes & Gr1 Budweiser Arlington Million Stakes among 12 wins (10 black type) & 5 2nds from just 18 starts. Being by Lyphard, Manila is a grandson of Northern Dancer. Fighting Falcon’s dam is winning Bold Forbes mare Lovlier Laura, a daughter of Century Type (victorious in 9 stakes races among 20 wins). Fighting Falcon will stand at Fairfields Stud at $3,575 (including GST). (July 29) Manner Hill To Stand At Stratheden Stud Danehill’s Group-winning son Manner Hill has retired to stud at Brian Marheine’s Stratheden Stud at Tamworth in northern NSW at an initial fee of $5,500 (including GST), reported racenet.com.au. Manner Hill won 6 races (including the Gr3 N.E.Manion Quality Cup at Rosehill & Gr3 Craven Plate at Randwick) over distances from 1100-2400m. His dam Mannerism won 13 races in the early 1990s, including the Gr1 Caulfield Cup, Gr1 Futurity Stakes & Gr1 SAJC Australasian Oaks for over $1.8 million prize-money. All her 6 foals to race have been metropolian winners, including Manner Hill’s Gr2-winning sister Dandify (top seller at $725,000 at this year’s Sydney broodmare sale). (July 29) Breeding Season Boost For Youthful Legs Danehill’s cousin Youthful Legs gained a timely breeding season boost when his 3YO son Malta notched his 3rd successive win at Randwick in Sydney at the weekend. Overall Malta (Youthful Legs-Celestial Model, by Celestial Dancer) now has 4 wins from 11 starts. A stakes winner in America, Youthful Legs stands at Erin Park Stud at Tamworth in northern NSW for $3,000 (including GST). (July 29) $5,000 Bargain Buy returns 2,100% Cranbourne-based accountant & part-time trainer Michael Ryan nabbed a real steal at the 2000 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale when he bought Edging Out, the 4YO daughter of Racer’s Edge who won again at Sandown in Melbourne over 1500m on the weekend. Ryan explained he was “in the right place at the right time” at the MM Adelaide Sale in Adelaide: While many buyers had already left the sale at the completion of the Select Sessions, Ryan stayed in search of a potential city winner & snapped to attention when Edging Out (from Melbourne-winning Family Ties mare Fanfrelita) was virtually unwanted in the ring & was initially passed in for $3,200. Ryan recalled: “I was listening to her being sold & I thought the price was well below her value. So I sought out her connections & asked what they wanted for her? They said they were looking for $5,000. So I just wrote the cheque on the spot & that’s how we got her.” Edging Out (who was given a year-long spell following her unplaced effort behind Magical Miss in the Gr1 Victorian Oaks at Flemington in 2001) has now earned connections $114,150 – a 2,100% return on investment! (July 29) 270 Entries For Inglis Melbourne August Sale The Inglis pedigree team has been swamped with 270 entries for the Melbourne Thoroughbred Sale on August 22. The sale will feature a big selection of tried racehorses from vendors such as Lindsay Park Stud, Sutton Grange Racing, Contract Racing & Aquanita Racing. (July 29) $2,500 Buys Gr1 Oaks Star Meanwhile the Roberta Maguire-trained filly Sound Action, winner of the Gr1 SAJC Australasian Oaks & $311,200 prize-money, was purchased for just $2,500 at the Inglis Melbourne 2001 December Thoroughbred Sale. The chestnut daughter of Vettori has subsequently won 7 of 8 starts & landed the title as “cheapest stakes-winner” sold by Inglis for the 2002-03 Australian racing season. (July 29) Quencher Wins Moonee Valley Horse-Of-The-Year The Tony Vasil-trained 6YO gelding Quencher has been named Moonee Valley Horse-Of-The-Year “for consistency of performance throughout the season,” reported aapracingandsports.com.au. Quencher (Jugah-Time For Drinks, by Turf Ruler) raced 11 times this season at Moonee Valley (over distances from 1500-2040m) for 3 wins, 3 placings, a 4th, 2 5ths, a 6th & a 7th. In previous seasons Quencher has recorded a further 9 placings at Moonee Valley. Quencher is raced by Joe & Thea Telfer & John & Rosemary Cotter. Overall Quencher now has 8 wins & 19 placings from 55 career starts. (July 29) Trainer Fined $10,000 For Drug Breaches Terang trainer Terry Beaton has been fined $10,000 by Racing Victoria stewards, & had 2 of his horses disqualified from Victorian country wins “after testing positive to prohibited substances.” The analyst's report found a urine sample taken from Tanna Hero after he won at Hamilton on May 25 contained the banned substance isoxsuprine, a peripheral vasodilator. Stablemate Blevic's Best also returned a positive swab to isoxsuprine after he won at Casterton on May 11. Beaton was fined $5,000 on each count. (July 29) Tour Of Aust Racing Museum’s New Site Australian Racing Museum managing director Leeanne Grantham will lead the media on a tour of the new ARM construction site at Melbourne’s Federation Square this morning, “providing an opportunity to hear first-hand what plans are in store for the ARM’s relocation & development.” Victorian Racing Minister John Pandazopoulos will join the tour & launch the ARM’s new website. (July 29) Aust States Adopt Uniform Plating Rules Racing NSW chief steward Ray Murrihy noted another step has been taken towards uniform racing throughout Australia & NZ, with all States agreeing to uniform plating rules for horses. He explained: ”We still have a long way to go, but one day all racing throughout Australia & NZ will hopefully be run on the same set of rules. We already have the chief steward from NZ attending our conferences & it may take a while, but it will happen.” As of July 1, new plating rules AR141A & AR141B came into effect, in particular the requirement to notify changes of plating similar to gear changes. Rather than listing individual brands of plates, the recording of plating has been compartmentalised into 9 sections: Standard race tips; Standard race plates; Non-standard race plates; Bar plates; Concussion plates; Pads; Glue-on shoes; Synthetic hoof filler; & Special plates. (July 29) Choisir Provides Aust & NZ Marketing Opportunity Choisir’s outstanding achievements in Europe mean the Northern Hemisphere can no longer consider Australasian racing form inferior, said William Inglis executive director of bloodstock Jonathan D’Arcy. “The purists in the Northern Hemisphere have always looked down their noses at Australian & NZ form, but they must now have a new respect for our horses,” D’Arcy told thoroughbrednews.co.nz. “Choisir’s achievement in Europe this year is the single best advertisement we have seen for our racing down-under since Phar Lap went to America. Choisir has given us a fantastic marketing opportunity to promote & increase the awareness of the Australasian thoroughbred product to the world.” As a result, an extensive marketing push in the Northern Hemipshere has been put on high priority by Inglis in the build-up to the company’s 2004 Australian Easter Yearling Sale in Sydney. Entries for the major 2004 yearling sales conducted by Inglis close early next month & D’Arcy has just returned to Sydney after a trip to NZ to promote the sales. He noted: “We view our sales as representing the Australasian market: Australia & NZ. For those NZ vendors with a large draft by 1 stallion to sell, it can be advantageous to split the draft between NZ & Sydney. It is getting increasingly harder to market a large draft of yearlings at 1 sale & the Sydney Easter & Melbourne yearling sales are an ideal way to reach a large & diverse bench of buyers for quality bloodstock.” (July 29) NZ Industry ‘Think Tank’ In Taupo A cross section of the NZ thoroughbred racing industry will gather for a "think tank" in Taupo on Friday. The 24 invitees will meet with Guy Sargent, the new chairman of NZ Thoroughbred Racing, who said the “aim of the day is to: (1) Create better communication; (2) Foster unity between all sectors of the industry; & (3) appreciate the wish list before the NZTR Board signs off on its business plan.” NZ’s new Racing Act requires NZ Thoroughbred Racing to present a business plan before it is entitled to receive bulk funding. Sargent noted he has endeavoured to include every sector of the NZ thoroughbred code on his invitation list for Taupo: "Those involved cover trainers, breeders, owners, jockeys, small clubs, large clubs, agents, equine training, syndicates, racing managers, jumping & NZ Thoroughbred Racing." Attendees include: Peter Hutt, Michael Martin, Nelson Schick, Ada Parnwell, Les Lowrie, Chris Woods, Mary McCarty, Tony Cole, Paul O’Sullivan, Dave Taylor, Meredith Deegan, Geoff Humphries, Tony Connors, David Jewell, Tony Enting, Ron Dixon, Paul Moroney, John McGifford, Tim Mills & Jim Watters. Sargent noted he is mindful of involving both North & South Island representatives in the Taupo symposium, but also plans to have a separate meeting in the lower South Island in the next 2-3 weeks. Topics of discussion for Friday’s meeting include funding distribution, dates, programming, on-course initiatives & overall marketing. (July 29) Singapore Owner Buys 50% Of NZ 2YO A Singapore owner has purchased a 50% interest in exciting NZ 2YO Mount Street (Kilimanjaro-Real Trier, by Turf Ruler), who will remain in the stable of current trainers Colin Jillings & Richard Yuill. Mount Street's sire Kilimanjaro (a 3/4 brother to Champion French racehorse & sire Darshaan) stands at NZ's Westbury Stud & has had 3 individuals undergo 2YO “educational preparations” to date (with all 3 either winning or placed in their trials). His 1st crop yearlings averaged 9.7 times their service fee & were purchased by astute judges including Mike Moroney, Graeme Rogerson, Donna Logan, Trevor & Stephen McKee, Collin Jillings & Roger Lang. Private trainer David Walsh has “huge wraps” on the 5 Kilimanjaro progeny he currently has in work for Westbury Stud. (July 29) 1st Danehill Foal For NZ’s Pencarrow Plan A filly born yesterday is the 1st foal to arrive in NZ as a result of Pencarrow Stud's “exclusive deal earlier this year involving the purchase of 20 broodmares in foal to champion stallion Danehill,” reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. Pencarrow (owned by Peter & Philip Vela) purchased the 20 mares, in foal to southern time to Danehill, from Coolmore Stud Ireland; with Danehill meeting a sudden death in May, the value of the package escalated. The foal born yesterday at Woodstock Farm is from Affirmed Lane, who won twice as a 2YO & was 3-times stakes placed in the US. Affirmed Lane is a daughter of multiple stakes-winner Festivity (Gr1 placed in the Romona Handicap at Del Mar) & a sister to Lady Affirmed (a Gr3 winner at Aqueduct & Gr1-placed in the Gamley Handicap at Hollywood Park). Affirmed Lane will now be mated this spring with Trelawney Stud's new stallion Van Nistlerooy. (July 29) Strategic Foal For Masaniella Meanwhile Pencarrow Stud has also welcomed a Strategic-Masaniella filly foal on its own property near Hamilton, noted thoroughbrednews.co.nz. Masaniella is a multiple group winner of 5 races, including 3 as a 2YO. This was her 1st foal & “the plan is for the filly to be retained by Pencarrow Stud to race”. (July 29) Champagne Returning To Giant's Causeway Top NZ racemare Champagne, currently in foal to 6-time Gr1 winner Giant's Causeway, is to visit that stallion at Coolmore Stud again this spring. The Zabeel mare, owned by Bob Emery, produced a Danehill colt last year which has been entered for the 2004 NZ Bloodstock Karaka Yearling Sales. Her 1st foal Martique has already shown promise for Gai Waterhouse by winning her juvenile debut & then finishing 2nd in a strong 2YO field at her only other outing this season; she is currently having a short spell before re-entering the Waterhouse stable for an exciting 3YO campaign. Emery told thoroughbrednews.co.nz: "She has shown exciting natural speed & her pedigree suggests she will excel over a mile or more." (July 29) NZ Stud Plans For Palia & Andrella NZ owner Bob Emery has also confirmed mating plans for 2 other high-profile mares he owns to thoroughbrednews.co.nz: Palia, due to foal in September to Zabeel, will visit Fusaichi Pegasus this season; she has an outstanding Fusaichi Pegasus yearling colt “which will probably be sold at Karaka.” Andrella, who is in foal to exciting stallion Fasliyev, will this season go to Cambridge Stud's newcomer Viking Ruler. (July 29) NZ Waikato Stallion Parade Weekend The annual 2-day stallion parade in NZ’s Waikato will be held on the weekend of August 30-31, confirmed thoroughbrednews.co.nz. The tour starts in the Cambridge area on Saturday August 30, beginning at Highview Stud at 9am; then (in order) the studs visited are Curraghmore Stud, Wychwood Stud, Windsor Park Stud & The Oaks Stud. The Matamata tour on Sunday August 31 begins at 10am at Rich Hill Stud & goes on to visit Grande Vue Lodge, Paramount Lodge & the Matamata racecourse. (July 29) NZ-Bred Lim’s Grand Stars In Singapore The latest NZ-bred star on the Singapore racing scene is Lim’s Grand (by Gold Brose), who scored his 2nd win in a week with an impressive victory in the S$100,000 (A$86,500) Juvenile Challenge Championship (1200m) at Kranji. The big grey had given a taste of his ability at just his 2nd start, when he scored by 5 lengths in strong maiden company on Singapore Derby night. Lim’s Grand was the top priced lot at last November’s NZ Bloodstock Ready-To-Run Sale, where he was sold for NZ$240,000 by Matamata breeders Jim & Ann Gibbs to Mick Dittman, acting on behalf of Singapore-based Lim’s Stables. Ann Gibbs told NZ Thorougbred Marketing: "We were talking to his trainer John Meagher on the weekend & they’re rapt with him. Apparently he had 1 back leg off the ground when the gates opened & he blew the start, so it made the win even more impressive. We think they’re going to put him aside for now with some big plans for him later on.” Lim’s Grand is the 3rd foal & 3rd smart performer from Famous Star mare Shepherd’s Delight, following Gr1 WRC Telegraph Handicap winner Vinaka (by Volksraad) & his stakes-placed brother Vaalu. The Gibbs recently sold Shepherd’s Delight to prominent Malaysian breeder Ananda Krishnan; the rising 11-year-old mare is in foal to Volksraad & is expected to visit Zabeel this spring. (July 29) 8 Kiwi Jockeys Top NZ$1 Million Prize-Money In the 2002-03 racing season, 8 Kiwi jockeys “have cracked the NZ$1 million prize-money barrier” noted NZ Thoroughbred Marketing. Leading the way is 12-time champion NZ jockey Lance O’Sullivan, whose mounts have won NZ$2,645,280 (156 winners including 21 in group or listed races). The others are Noel Harris, Michael Coleman, Michael Walker, Lee Rutherford, Gary Grylls, Andrew Calder & Opie Bosson. After O’Sullivan, the jockey with the highest number of NZ black-type wins this season is Michael Walker (12). (July 29) Rory’s Jester Colt Remains Unbeaten In Malaysia Malaysian marvel Flying Ace again demoralised his rivals as he extended his unbeaten record to 5 in Perak on the weekend. The 3YO son of former champion galloper & Collingrove Stud-based sire Rory’s Jester (from the well bred mare Magpies) was knocked down to Kuek Ser Kee for $85,000 at the 2001 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale at Morphettville. Taking on some of Malaysia’s most talented Class One performers over 1200m, Flying Ace again showed no mercy & stormed away for a 5-length victory (the smallest winning margin of his unbeaten career). Last year the speedster demolished his rivals when he swept to a 10-length win in the Magic Millions Malaysian Classic. (July 29) Tomakomai Wins 4-Straight In Macau Meanwhile former Melbourne galloper Tomakomai gave the same 2001 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale further success when he cruised to his 4th straight win in Macau on Sunday night. Bred & sold by Henry Vogel’s Gawler Park Stud, Elegance Champion (as he is now known in his new home) was a $55,000 buy for trainer Lee Freedman in Adelaide. The 3YO son of Fuji Kiseki (who was already a dual Victorian winner & Sandown placegetter from 5 starts in Australia) is yet to miss a place in Macau. In his latest victory, he won over 1000m ridden by expatriate Australian jockey Darryl McLellan. (July 29) US Sprint Champion Kona Gold Retired Kona Gold, the 9YO US champion sprinter of 2000, has been retired following his 4th-place finish in the Gr2 Bing Crosby Handicap at Del Mar last weekend, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Kona Gold began 2003 with a win in the 5.5 furlong Gr3 El Conejo Stakes at Santa Anita Park on New Year’s Day. Unraced as a 2YO & 3YO, the Java Gold gelding subsequently collected 11 stakes wins over 6 seasons & earned US$2,293,384; overall he notched 14 wins & 9 placings in 30 starts. Kona Gold raced in the Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Sprint (6 furlongs) a record 5 times, including a half-length win in the 2000 edition in track record time (1min 7.77sec) to cap his championship season, which also included victories in the Gr2 Palos Verdes, Gr2 Potrero Grande Breeders’ Cup & Gr2 Ancient Title Breeders’ Cup Handicaps at Santa Anita Park & the Gr2 Bing Crosby Breeders’ Cup Handicap at Del Mar. (July 29) 1st Winner For US Sire Grand Circus Park Multiple US stakes winner Grand Circus Park recorded his 1st winner as a sire when Grand Circus Shark romped home by 4.25 lengths over 6.5 furlongs at Great Lakes Downs, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Grand Circus Park (a 15-year-old son of Apalachee) stands at Dickinson Farms in Michigan. He won 13 stakes races (including multiple renewals of the Frontier Handicap, Michigan Breeders’ Governor’s Cup Handicap, Wolverine Stakes & Grosse Pointe Handicap) & set track records at both Ellis Park in 1993 for 8.5 furlongs in 1min 40.40sec & at Detroit Race Course in 1994 for 8.5 furlongs in 1min 40.0sec. He retired age 10 with 22 wins from 43 starts. Grand Circus Park is 1 of 6 starters (all winners) out of winning Crimson Satan mare Circus Poster. (July 29) UK Cliveden Stud Retires 3 Star Broodmares Cliveden Stud (source of recent Irish 2,000 Guineas winner Indian Haven) has retired 3 of its broodmare stalwarts, reported racingpost.co.uk. Ever Genial, 21, was a smart filly up to 10 furlongs, with wins including the Gr3 May Hill Stakes as a 2YO & Hungerford Stakes as a 3YO. Among her 13 foals (a Vettori colt is the last), her son Glider Line was prominent in Malaysia. Overdrive, 19, is the dam of 1999 Gr3 Queen’s Vase winner Endorsement (by Warning) & her 7th & final foal (a filly by Diktat) is closely related to that mare, now part of the Cliveden team. Overdrive, herself a useful stayer, shares her dam Milly Moss (4th in the 1973 UK Oaks) with influential broodmares Mill On The Floss, Milly Lass & Shadywood. Select Sale, 20, was unraced but made an impact at stud as dam of 1990 Gr2 King Edward VII Stakes winner Private Tender. The half-sister to Ribblesdale Stakes winner Queen Midas has produced 15 foals, among them winning Nashwan filly Top Shop, whose successful daughter Up Market makes her stud debut this year. (July 29) Fraulein’s 1st Mating To Kingmambo Meanwhile Cliveden’s stud debutantes of 2003 are led by Canadian Gr1 E.P.Taylor Stakes winner Fraulein, who remained in North America after her Woodbine triumph & is in foal to Kingmambo. Fraulein is the inspiration for her half-sister Franglais’s 1st mate, Gestut Fahrhof stallion Acatenango, noted racingpost.co.uk. (July 29) Alamshar Wins UK Gr1 George & Elizabeth Stakes The Aga Khan's 3YO homebred colt Alamshar (Key Of Luck-Alaiyda, by Shahrastani) proved too good for a top class field of older horses in England’s premier weight-for-age event, the £750,000 (A$1.875 million) Gr1 King George VI And Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (12 furlongs) at Ascot, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Irish Derby winner Alamshar (ridden by Johnny Murtagh for trainer John Oxx) won by 3.5 lengths from Godolphin’s French high-weight Sulamani (by Hernando) & Epsom Derby winner Kris Kin (by Kris S). Alamshar has now won 5 & placed in the other 2 of his 7 starts for earnings of £1,185,884 (A$2.965 million). Irish-bred Alamshar is 1 of 3 stakes-winners sired in 2003 by Key Of Luck (Chief's Crown-Balbonella, by Gay Mecene); he is also 1 of 4 starters (2 winners) out of winning Shahrastani mare Alaiyda (whose dam is English champion Aliysa). (July 28) Aga Khan Triumph For ‘Continuation Of Breeding Stock’ Winning owner-breeder The Aga Khan (winner of the race previously with Shergar) declared after Alamshar’s triumph: “What's exciting is the continuation of the breeding stock. He traces directly to Mumtaz Mahal.” Thoroughbredinternet.com noted: “Alamshar's 8th dam is the brilliant Nunthorpe & Queen Mary Stakes winner Mumtaz Mahal, & as such, represents an unbroken line of care & attention to pedigree & conformation that spans some 80 years. . . . Alamshar resembles his granddam Aliysa physically & will no doubt get his chance to become yet another representative of a family that has spawned stallions like Nasrullah, Royal Charger, Kalamoun, Nassipour, Adraan & Nishapour to name but a few. . . . Certainly there can be no more successful breeding operation in the world over the last 30 years than that of the Aga Khan's, who this year alone is represented by Derby winners Alamshar & Dalakhani.” Alamshar's broodmare sire Shahrastani is now at stud in England, standing for a bargain fee of £1,250. (July 28) UK Handicapper Rates Alamshar ‘Superstar’ Alamshar’s emphatic victory has been “accorded superstar status” & “officially hailed as the best performance in the race for over a decade,” reported racingpost.co.uk. The British Horseracing Board’s senior handicapper Nigel Gray gave Alamshar a rating of 131 for his 3.5 length win & explained: “That is the best performance in the race since St Jovite in 1992. Among winners in recent years Golan was rated 126, Galileo 129, Montjeu 130, Daylami ran to 130 in the race & Swain was 129. Going into the race it looked like a field full of stars, with 10 of the 12 runners rated 118 or more, & we were looking for a superstar to emerge. And Alamshar fits the bill.” (July 28) Alamshar ‘Will Get Even Better’ Alamshar’s rating is subject to revision at the international classification conference in HK in December; but BHB handicapper Nigel Gray is confident the form will stand up, & believes there may be even better to come from the 3YO: “The form has a solid look. Going in Sulamani was rated 126 & he did get into a bit of trouble & ran to 125. Kris Kin was rated 122 going in & he has run to that. And Bollin Eric (4th) was rated 121 & has run to that.” Gray added: “Alamshar has been really progressive this year. He improved 6lb from the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial to the Derby, another 6lb from the Derby to the Irish Derby & now he has improved another 5lb. And there is no reason to think there isn’t more in the locker, judging by the style of his victory. He was really impressive, showing true authority, & it was a very exciting performance.” Alamshar’s next target was yesterday confirmed as the 10-furlong Gr1 Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown, but another clash with Dalakhani in the Gr1 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe has not been ruled out. Racingpost.co.uk summed up: “Such was the speed that the Aga Khan’s colt showed in running away with the King George that all options over 1.25 miles & 1.5 miles are being considered for him.” (July 28) World Series Gains Rolls-Royce As Sponsor The Gr1 King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes at Ascot was also the 3rd leg of this year’s World Series Racing Championship & “marked the start of a sponsorship agreement between the series & Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The series has struggled since Emirates Airlines (which spent US$15 million promoting the event during its initial 3 years) decided not to renew its sponsorship following the 2001 season. The series continued last year under funding from individual races & their organisations. World Series deputy chairman Lord Hartington commented: "The partnership with Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a very welcome addition to the World Series. The series is all about breeding & racing the world’s best thoroughbreds at the highest level on one global stage &, as such, the worldwide Rolls-Royce reputation for outstanding achievements makes for an excellent combination. We welcome our new partner." The series lost 2 of the 14 races originally on the 2003 schedule: the Gr1 Dubai World Cup withdrew in March, while the Gr1 Singapore International Cup was cancelled in April during the SARS outbreak. The series also includes the US Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Classic & Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Turf, Gr1 Japan Cup, Gr1 Irish Champion Stakes, French G1 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe & Australia’s Gr1 Cox Plate. (July 28) Megahertz Wins US Gr1 John Mabee Handicap Meanwhile in the US, British-bred former French campaigner & 4YO filly Megahertz (Pivotal-Heavenly Ray, by Rahy) won the US$400,000 Gr1 John Mabee Handicap (9 furlongs on turf) for fillies & mares at Del Mar, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Megahertz (ridden by Alex Solis for trainer Bobby Frankel) won by half a length from triple dead-heaters (all previous Gr1 winners) Tates Creek (by Rahy), Dublino (by Lear Fan) & Golden Apples (by Pivotal). Megahertz now has 8 wins in 21 starts overall & US$1,127,294 prize-money. Winning sire & Gr1 winner Pivotal (Polar Falcon-Fearless Revival, by Cozzene) stands at Cheveley Park Stud in England & Megahertz is the lone winner out of winning Rahy mare Heavenly Ray. (July 28) Voodoo Dancer Wins US Gr1 Diana Handicap Voodoo Dancer (who ran 2nd by a nose behind Tates Creek in this race last year) won the US$500,000 Gr1 Diana Handicap (9 furlongs on turf) for fillies & mares at Saratoga Race Course, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Voodoo Dancer (ridden by Corey Nakatani for trainer Christophe Clement) won by a neck from Juddmonte stablemates Heat Haze (by Green Desert) & Pertuisane (by Zamindar). Voodoo Dancer (who previously won the Gr1 2001 Garden City Breeders’ Cup Handicap at Belmont Park) now has 11 wins & 6 placings in 20 career starts & earnings of US$1,427,952 for owners Green Hills Farm. The 5YO daughter of Kingmambo was bred in Kentucky by Lazy E Ranch & is out of placed Danzig mare Zuri. Winning sire & French Classic winner Kingmambo (Mr Prospector-Miesque, by Nureyev) stands at Lane's End Farm in Kentucky. (July 28) Lady Tak Wins US Gr1 Test Stakes Lady Tak (Mutakddim-Star Of My Eye, by Lucky North) demolished her opposition & notched a new race record in winning the US$250,000 Test Stakes (7 furlongs) for 3YO fillies at Saratoga, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Lady Tak (ridden by Jerry Bailey for trainer Steve Asmussen) won by 4.5 lengths from Gr1 Kentucky Oaks & Gr1 Acorn Stakes winner Bird Town (by Cape Town) & House Party (by French Deputy). Lady Tak took her record to 6 wins & 2 2nds from just 9 starts for owner Heiligbrodt Racing Stable. “Lady Tak is closely related to Spendthrift stallion Pikepass (by Forty Niner) & the Australian stakeswinners Cannyanna & Kim Uma, her granddam a sister to Hidden Talent & Heavenly Body,” noted thoroughbredinternet.com. Lady Tak is 1 of 2 Gr1 winners in 2003 sired by Mutakddim (Seeking The Gold-Oscillate, by Seattle Slew). (July 28) Sightseek Wins US Gr1 Go For Wand Handicap Sightseek recorded her 3rd successive Gr1 victory with a massive 11.5 length win in yesterday’s US$250,000 Gr1 Go For Wand Handicap (9 furlongs) for fillies & mares at Saratoga Race Course. “In the process, she may also have answered any questions regarding her potential to provide a challenge to Horse-Of-The-Year Azeri in the distaff division,” declared thoroughbredtimes.com. The 4YO daughter of Distant View (ridden by Jerry Bailey for trainer Bobby Frankel) defeated She’s Got The Beat, with another 5 lengths back to 3rd-placed Nonsuch Bay. Frankel (who notched his 15th Gr1 win of the year) is now “pointing Sightseek” toward the 9 furlong Gr1 Breeders Cup Distaff at Santa Anita on October 25 “where she would likely face Azeri for the first time”. Sightseek has finished 1st or 2nd in all her 11 career starts (7 wins & 4 2nds) for earnings of US$869,866 for owner-breeder Juddmonte Farms. Bred in Kentucky, Sightseek is 1 of 3 winners out of stakes winner Viviana (by Nureyev); she is a half-sister to Gr1 winner Tates Creek. (July 28) Special Ring Wins US Gr1 Eddie Read Handicap Prestonwood Farm's 6YO gelding Special Ring (Nureyev-Ring Beaune, by Bering) set a track record in winning yesterday’s US$400,000 Gr1 Eddie Read Handicap (9 furlongs on turf) at Del Mar by 5 lengths, reported bloodhorse.com. Special Ring (ridden by David Flores for trainer Julio Canani) defeated Decarchy & Irish Warrior in 1min 45.87sec (breaking the record set by Al Mamoon of 1min 46.60sec in 1986). Special Ring already held the shorter “1 mile on turf” record at Del Mar, set at 1min 32.75sec in August 2002. Special Ring now has 6 wins in 15 US starts since transferring from France in May 2001, & 8 wins from 23 starts overall. (July 28) Sabiango Wins German Gr1 Deutschland-Preis Stiftung Gestut Fahrhof’s homebred Gr1 winner Sabiango won Germany’s Gr1 Deutschland-Preis (2400m) by 3.5 lengths at Dusseldorf yesterday, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Storm Trooper (3rd to Dai Jin in the recent Gr1 Deutches Derby) finished 2nd, with Levirat 3rd. Sabiango (ridden by Eduardo Pedroza for trainer Andreas Wohler) previously won Germany’s 2001 Gr1 Pokal. Overall Sabiango (a 5YO son of Acatenango) has 3 stakes wins to his credit (also including the 2001 Gr2 Oppenheim-Union-Rennen) & now has 5 wins & 3 placings in 11 starts. He is a half-brother to German high-weight & multiple Gr1 winner Silvano, & is 1 of 6 winners from 7 starters out of winning Beau’s Eagle mare Spirit Of Eagles (who was 2001 Broodmare-Of-The-Year in Germany). (July 28) African Lion Wins South African Gr1 Champion’s Cup African Lion smashed the course record by more than a second & then survived a protest to win South Africa’s Gr1 Champion’s Cup (2000m) at Clairwood, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. African Lion (ridden by HK-based jockey Anton Marcus, who was in South Africa on a holiday visit) just nosed out Special Parade, with Wolf Whistle 5 lengths away in 3rd place; the time was 1min 57.32sec. African Lion races in the colors of professional punter Robert Bloomberg, for a syndicate which also includes the gelding’s breeder Robin Bruss. A son of Irish stallion Shalford, African Lion is the 8th foal of winning dam Teclafields (by Northfields) who has produced 7 winners, including Circle Of Life, champion older mare in South Africa. (July 28) Ice Cube Wins South African Gr1 Premier’s Champion Stakes Ice Cube (by Western Winter) “cemented his claims as South Africa’s champion juvenile male” by winning the Gr1 Premier’s Champion Stakes (1600m) at Clairwood, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Ice Cube won by half a length from Hold The Fort (by Fort Wood) & Play The Odds (by Spaceship). There are 3 Gr1 races for 2YO males in the South African racing season & Ice Cube has now won 2 of them, after finishing 2nd in the other. Ice Cube (who races for 2003 South African champion trainer Geoff Woodruff) is owned by US-based Robert Muir & was bred in South Africa at Lammerskraal Stud; overall he has 4 wins from 7 starts. He is the 1st foal out of 2-time Group stakes winner Annie (by Trigger Finger). (July 28) Aust Family Ties 1: US Gr2 Winner Meanwhile of significant interest to Australia breeders: Michael Tabor’s 2YO colt Chapel Royal (Montbrook-Cut Class Leanne, by Cutlass) made it 3 wins in 3 starts with a steamrolling 5.75 lengths victory in the Gr2 Sanford Stakes at Saratoga, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Chapel Royal had cost US$1.2 million at the Ocala Breeders Breeze-Up Sale in February. Chapel Royal is out of a winning half-sister to North American Listed winner Silky Sweep & Silky Pleasure (dam of South African Group winner Genial). Chapel Royal's granddam is a Never Bend half-sister to Champion racemare Fanfreluche (dam of Canadian Champions La Voyageuse, L'Enjoleur & Medaille d'Or). “This is the immediate family of Australian Gr1 winners Flying Spur, Encosta de Lago & Hasna, as well as Gr1 Yellow Ribbon Invitational winner Aube Indienne.” (July 28) Aust Family Ties 2: Listed Win In UK And barely 24 hours later in England: Wood Hall Stud's 3YO filly Soldera (Polish Numbers-La Pepite, by Mr Prospector) won the Listed Valiant Stakes (1 mile) at Ascot, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. “Inbred 3x3 to Northern Dancer, Soldera's dam is a half-sister to 5 stakes-winners, notably Canadian Champions L'Enjoleur, Medaille d'Or & La Voyageuse, (dam of Time Bandit). La Pepite is a three-quarter sister to Rolls, (dam of Gr1 Golden Slipper Stakes winner Flying Spur) & this is the immediate family of Australian Gr1 winners Encosta de Lago & Hasna, as well as impressive Sanford Stakes winner Chapel Royal.” (July 28) Coolmore’s Fasliyev Continues Streak In France Jean-Louis Bouchard's flying 2YO filly Much Faster (Fasliyev-Interruption, by Zafonic) “routed the opposition” in yesterday’s French Gr2 Prix Robert Papin (1100m) at Maisons-Laffitte, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Unbeaten in 4 starts to date, Much Faster (ridden by Thierry Thulliez & trained by Pascal Bary) “ran her rivals ragged, running out an easy winner by 3 lengths” over Colossus (by Danehill) & Leila (by Lahint). Meanwhile Coolmore’s boom freshman shuttle sire & former Champion European 2YO Fasliyev (Nureyev-Mr P's Princess, by Mr Prospector) is currently leading sire of 2YOs in Europe by both earnings & stakes-winners. “Bred in Ireland by Sicea Des Bissons, Much Faster is the 1st winner in as many starters from unraced Zafonic mare Interruption,” noted thoroughbredtimes.com. (July 28) 1st Stakes Winner For Darley’s Cape Cross Sheikh Mohammed’s 2YO colt Privy Seal (Cape Cross-Lady Joshua, by Royal Academy) provided Darley stallion Cape Cross with his 1st stakes-winner when he won Ireland’s Listed Tyros Stakes (7 furlongs) at Leopardstown, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Privy Seal defeated Wathab (by Cadeaux Genereux) & Mahogany (by Orpen). “Privy Seal is inbred 4x4 to Northern Dancer. A half-brother to Australian winner Lady Amante (by Alhaarth), their dam is a half-sister to Gr1 Princess Of Wales's & Gr2 Jockey Club Stakes winner Sapience.” Winning sire & Gr1 winner Cape Cross (Green Desert-Park Appeal, by Ahonoora) shuttles between Kildangan Stud in Ireland & Cambridge Stud in NZ. (July 28) Arrowfield’s Danzero Notches Another Stakes Win On the local scene over the weekend, Arrowfield Stud’s stallion Danzero recorded another stakes win when 3YO Dantana (Danzero-Big Sky Montana, by Lord Seymour) made it 2 stakes wins in as many weeks with another all-the-way blitz of his rivals in the Gr3 Dermody Stakes (1000m) at Cheltenham in Adelaide. Dantana defeated Maybe McLaren & Keetah's Lady. Dantana now has 9 wins in 20 starts & $427,100 prize-money. Dantana is bred on the same Danzero/Lord Seymour cross as Gr1 winner Danglissa. Golden Slipper Stakes winner Danzero (Danehill-Confidentially, by Kaoru Star) stands at Arrowfield Stud in the NSW Hunter Valley. (July 28) Woodlands’ Strategic Has 7-Winners-In-7-Days And the win by the Paul Perry-trained 4YO Shags (Strategic-Prime Block, by Blockbuster) at Randwick in Sydney, gave his Woodlands Stud-based sire Strategic his 7th individual winner in 7 days. (July 28) Coolmore’s Thunder Gulch Not Shuttling Meanwhile Coolmore’s Thunder Gulch (Gulch-Line Of Thunder, by Storm Bird), who had shuttled to Australia for 7 consecutive seasons from Ashford Stud in Kentucky, has been given “a season’s rest” & will miss his intended southern trip this year. The 1995 Kentucky Derby winner & US Champion Sire of 2001 (who has been represented by Group winner Restless in Australia this year, as well as Singapore Guineas winner Grand Canyon) has sired the Gr1 winning fillies Tempest Morn & Tully Thunder, & Gr1 Toorak Handicap winner Shot Of Thunder; in North America, he has sired US Horse-Of-The-Year Point Given (6-time Gr1 winner, including the Preakness Stakes by 12.25 lengths), Spain (Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Distaff winner & leading female money earner in US history) & Tweeside (7.75-length winner of the Gr1 Coaching Club American Oaks). (July 28) Blevic’s Son Wins NT Derby South Australia’s Kambula Stud stallion Blevic added another feature race on the weekend when his gelded son Tjilpi won the Northern Territory Derby. Tjilpi (ridden by Dale Coffey for trainer Catriona Green & owner-breeder Kevin Hart) won narrowly from the Graeme Rogerson-trained Wild Heart (previously placed behind Helenus in the Gr2 AAMI Vase) & Darwin Guineas winner Edge To Edge. Hart bred Tjilpi from Bletchalong mare Our Jessica (who won 5 races from 1000-1500m); Bletchalong (by champion sire & broodmare sire Bletchingly) was an unraced half-brother to multiple stakes-winner & Blue Diamond victor Let’s Get Physical. Tjilpi has now won 4 races in 11 starts. (July 28) Wednesday Scan For Northerly Trainer Fred Kersley will wait until the results of a scan on Northerly's injured leg on Wednesday “before declaring the champion's career is definitely over, but is resigned to his star performer's retirement,” reported aapracingandsports.com.au. Kersley summed up on SKY TV’s Racing Retro: "I never say never, but my view is he will never race again. There are some horses who come back from such an injury, but the majority don't. I'm very much a pessimist. The main thing is he's comfortable & he's well." Kersley said Northerly would go back to the stud where he was born, south of Perth, to live out his retirement. (July 28) Beadman Sets New Sydney Jockey Record Leading jockey Darren Beadman reclaimed the Sydney riding record at Royal Randwick with his 140th winner for the 2002-2003 season (aboard the John Hawkes-trained Networks). Beadman had held the record at 128 winners (set in 1994-95) but was displaced by Larry Cassidy (now riding in Singapore) with 139.5 wins in 1997-98. Beadman told aapracingandsports.com.au: "I've been focused on this for the last 6 months. I worked out it would take 10 or 15 winners a month without suspensions. This is up with the Melbourne Cup & Cox Plate because it's so hard to come by." And Beadman believes at 37 the best is yet to come: "I think the best years for a jockey are the mid-30s to early 40s, as long as the desire is there. I still have the passion for racing, the fire in my belly, & I have been blessed.” (July 28) Fitzroy New VRC Chairman Rod Fitzroy has been elected new chairman of the Victoria Racing Club, following the retirement of Andrew Ramsden after 5 years in the position. Ramsden will retain a position on the VRC Committee. (July 28) Randwick’s Revamped Kensington Track Gains 2 Meetings The Australian Jockey Club has announced that 2 meetings originally scheduled for Warwick Farm have been transferred to the Kensington Track at Royal Randwick “as industry support strengthens for the inner track”. Remedial work carried out on the Kensington Track (including aeration & top-dressing to stabilise the surface) has resulted in favourable comments from jockeys, trainers & stewards over recent months. “Given the track’s significant improvement & the fact Warwick Farm will host 4 meetings over the next 5 weeks, 2 future meetings (on Tuesday September 2 & Wednesday October 15) have been rescheduled to Kensington.” (July 28) Trainer Keith Swan Dies Leading NSW country trainer Keith Swan has died aged 73 “after a long battle with cancer,” reported aapracignandsports.com.au. Based at Somerton (between Tamworth & Gunnedah) in the north-western NSW, Swan's career lasted 54 years during which time he won 24 successive North & North West District Racing Association premierships. He decided not to renew his licence for the coming season, transferring his horses to his son Bruce Swan & niece Sue Grills. As well as training over 2000 winners (including several Country Cups at Randwick), Swan put the finishing touches on 1995 Ramornie Handicap winner Indian Chief, as well as feature race winners Drop A Note, Nyrangi, Allah’s Choice, Merchant Bank, Lucky To Be, Sir Eden, Caissa, Real Silence, Parademansia, Lettergram & So Torrid. (July 28) Korean Racing 1: NZ Horse Shipment Arrives The first shipment of NZ-sourced horses for several years “has landed in Korea preparatory to racing there later this year,” reported NZ Thoroughbred Marketing. The 6 rising 3YOs were purchased by prominent Korean owner J.R.Park on a visit to NZ in May. With assistance from Cambridge-based bloodstock agent Stuart Hale, 4 were sourced from the NZ Bloodstock Autumn Sale & the remaining 2 were private purchases. The Karaka quartet (geldings by Lord Ballina, Woodborough & Carry The Crown, plus a filly by Volksraad) cost a total NZ$77,000. The 2 private purchases are geldings by O’Reilly & Yachtie. Hale travelled earlier this month with the horses on a flight to Korea chartered by new operator Ian McKean Airfreight Brokers. Hale reported: "I spent 10 days there & visited studs, stables & race meetings. The horses will race for members of the Gwacheon Racehorse Owners’ Club. I’ve since heard from J.R.Park that their new trainers were very happy with the quality of the horses when they were released from quarantine. He also informed me he was invited by NZ Embassy officials to attend a breakfast hosted by our Prime Minister Helen Clark in Seoul." (July 28) Korean Racing 2: Breeding Demand & Betting Boom The establishment of thoroughbred industry links between NZ & Korea follows “the massive strides the racing & breeding industries have made recently in that country”, combined with subsequent groundwork there by both NZ Thoroughbred Marketing & NZ Bloodstock. NZTM reports: “Korean betting turnovers are booming, with a forecast for this year of US$65 billion, leading to substantial increases in prize-money. Allied to that is the freeing-up of former Korean Racing Association restrictions, to now enable the private purchase of thoroughbreds overseas.” NZTM is involved in “on-going negotiations with Trade NZ & Investment NZ to form a strategy to promote future investment in the NZ product.” It is anticipated a group of Koreans will attend the Karaka Ready-To-Run Sale in November. The Korean breeding industry will also require additional stock, as currently there is a requirement for 70% of the country’s racehorse pool to be locally bred. And an estimated additional 900 horses will be required when the new racing complex at Busan opens in 2005, to coincide with Korea hosting the next Asian Racing Federation Conference. (July 28) NZ Breeder-Of-The-Year Finalists The 4 finalists for 2002-03 NZ Breeder-Of-The-Year have been selected from nominations made by the NZ Thoroughbred Breeders Association’s council & branches. (The 11-members of the NZTBA Council vote in a secret ballot to decide both finalists & winner.) The award will be presented at the 2003 Mercedes NZ Thoroughbred Racing Awards in Christchurch on Friday August 7. The finalists are: Garry Chittick, Waikato Stud, Matamata: Breeder of Gr1 winner Critic & 8 other Group & Listed stakes-winners (with all but 1 by stallions that stand at the Chittick family’s Waikato Stud). Special pride in the success of 1997 NZ Horse-Of-The-Year O’Reilly (bred at Waikato Stud, raced by Chittick & now 1 of NZ’s leading sires). Waikato Stud was also 1 of the Top 15 leading vendors at Australasian yearling sales in 2003, with 58 yearlings sold for a total A$2.7 million. Chittick & his family owned & operated Thornton Park Stud in the Wairarapa & Manawatu regions for 20 years until they purchased Waikato Stud in 1994. Chittick won the NZ Breeder-Of-the-Year title in 1993 & was a finalist in 2002. Joe, Martin, Ray & Tony Dennis, Woodlands, Southland: The Dennis brothers’ success story cannot be separated from the marvellous female family they’ve worked with for 40 years: their latest stars, NZ 1000 Guineas Gr1 winner The Jewel & Gr2 winner Star Affair, are great-grand-daughters of the brothers’ amazing foundation mare The Pixie. She appears in the female line of 10 Group & Listed stakes-winners, including 5 Gr1 winners: The Twinkle; champion 3YO The Phantom Chance; 1994 NZ Horse-Of-The-Year The Phantom; Irish Chance; & now The Jewel. The Grin is maintaining the family’s tradition of fine racemares that become top broodmares. And The Son (Noble Bijou-The Twinkle), was sire of this year’s Gr1 Wellington Cup winner Oarsman from a 1997 crop of only 9 foals. The Dennis brothers won this award in 1994 & were also finalists in 1993. Fayette Park Stud, Tirau, Waikato: Excellence has long been the guiding principle for David & Masey Benjamin, who began work in the NZ thoroughbred industry at Blandford Lodge 30 years ago, set up Fieldhouse Stud in the early 1980s & established Fayette Park Stud in 1988. The Benjamins were also finalists for this award in 2001. Don & Rochelle McLaren, Northfields Stud, Auckland: A trio of 1997 foals from Don & Rochelle McLaren’s small but select broodmare band has provided a memorable season in 2002-03: 13 black-type performances by 2 Group winners & a Gr1 place-getter. Piachay capped the year with victory in the Gr1 Brisbane Cup, while Millennium & Jetski twice nearly pulled off a Group race quinella for their breeders. Jetski ran 4th in Millennium’s Gr2 Japan/NZ Trophy & 3 weeks later the pair filled the placings (a long neck & a half-head behind Sedecrem) in a hard-fought Gr1 Easter Handicap at Ellerslie. The McLarens have bred & raced thoroughbreds for more than 25 years & count Australian Gr1 winner Flitter among their previous successes. This is the 1st time they have been finalists for this award. (July 28) Hussonet Son Record Price At Chile Sale Harbor, a 2YO colt by Arrowfield Stud’s boom Chilean sire Hussonet, topped the 2nd session of the selected 2YO sale organized by Fernando Zanartu Rozas & Cia Ltd in Santiago in Chile, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Harbor, the 1st foal out of Memo mare Mizabell, sold for a sale record US$51,500 to trainer Jorge Inda Meyer. And fellow trainer Oliverio Martinez purchased Hus, a half-brother to Chilean champion & US 1998 Gr1 Santa Anita Handicap winner Malek for US$40,000. Both colts were bred by Haras Mocito Guapo. (July 28) Salt Lake Returns To Argentina For Stud Season Walmac International’s Kentucky sire Salt Lake, “a sensation as a sire in Argentina”, will shuttle there today for the upcoming Southern Hemisphere breeding season, via a joint operation by Argentine-based Haras La Quebrada & Haras de La Pomme (where he will stand), reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Salt Lake, a 14-year-old son of Deputy Minister, stood his only season in Argentina in 1999 at Haras Vacacion. His only crop born in Argentina produced Argentine Gr1 winners Emergente & Asset, as well as stakes winners Planetarium, Miss Grace & Salt Champ. Antonio Bullrich (who acted as agent in the latest venture) said victories this season by Emergente in Argentina’s Gr1 Estrellas Juvenile & Asset in the Gr1 Estrellas Sprint Junior convinced Walmac to return the stallion to Argentina for the Southern Hemisphere season. Salt Lake (who won 7 of 21 starts as a 2YO & 3YO, including the 1991 Gr1 Hopeful Stakes at Saratoga) has sired 35 stakes winners, including 1998 Canadian champion 2YO filly Fantasy Lake. (July 28) Dr Greenfield To Stand In Uruguay Meanwhile Dr Greenfield (a stakes winner in England) will stand the upcoming Southern Hemisphere breeding season in Uruguay at Pablo Salomone´s Haras Cuatro Piedras in partnership with owner Team Valor, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 5YO son of Dr Devious won 3 races in England (including the 2001 Philip Leverhulme Dee Stakes); in his final career start, he finished 9th in the 2001 Gr1 Belmont Stakes. Bred at Mount Coote Stud, Dr Greenfield´s winning dam Memory Green (by Green Forest) has produced 2 winners from 3 starters. (July 28) 1st Win For US Freshman Sire Quaker Ridge US freshman sire Quaker Ridge recorded his 1st winner when 2YO filly Amazer won by 3 lengths over 5.5 furlongs at Saratoga Race Course, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Quaker Ridge currently stands at Walmac South in Florida. The 7YO son of Forty Niner notched 3 wins from just 7 starts before retiring as a 3YO for high-profile owners Michael Tabor & Susan Magnier. Bred in Kentucky, Quaker Ridge is 1 of 7 starters (all winners) out of 1985 Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies winner Twilight Ridge (by Cox’s Ridge). He is a half-brother to Gr2 winner La Rosa & stakes winner Daylight Ridge, & has 27 juveniles in his 1st crop of racing age. (July 28) 1st Win For US Freshman Sire Safely’s Mark US freshman sire Safely’s Mark recorded his 1st winner when his filly Safley’s Social won over 5.5 furlongs at Calder Race Course, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. A Kentucky-bred son of Danzig, Safely’s Mark notched 3 wins in 10 career starts; he is 1 of 4 starters (all winners) out of 1990 champion sprinter Safely Kept (by Horatius). Safely’s Mark currently stands in Florida & has 19 foals from 2 crops, including 16 2YOs. (July 28) 1st Win For US Sire Jackson US sire Jackson recorded his 1st winner when John Benzel’s homebred La Traviesa won at Finger Lakes, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. New York-based Jackson (an 11-year-old son of Private Terms) won 6 of his 25 starts, & has sired 5 foals of racing age. Jackson is 1 of 8 starters (6 winners) out of winning Mr Prospector mare Gay Chiffon. (July 28) 1st Win For US Sire Retirement Account US sire Retirement Account recorded his 1st winner when 3YO Flying Piper won at Penn National Race Course, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. A 10-year-old son of Buckfinder, Retirement Account won 9 races in 70 starts, & is 1 of 9 winners from 12 starters out of Master Derby mare Playful Hooky. Flying Piper is the only starter by Retirement Account (who has 3 foals of racing age). (July 28) Tendon Injury Threatens Northerly’s Career Fred Kersley’s Perth star Northerly, Australia’s weight-for-age champion of the last 2 seasons, has suffered a tendon injury which “is likely to end his racing career”. The 6YO son of Serheed & dual Cox Plate winner is being monitored by vets for 48 hours, but Judith Kersley (wife of trainer Fred) told The West Australian newspaper: "It will probably be the end of his career. He's been a great horse to us & he will be sent to the paddock." (July 25) Northerly Rated ‘Just Below Best Of Last 25 Years’ Since the Australian & NZ classifications were introduced in 1976 only 8 horses have bettered Northerly’s career rating of 124. “The classifications are a measurement against a constant scale & provide a means of comparison of great racehorses from generation to generation,” noted The Daily Telegraph. Kingstown Town, Better Loosen Up & Might And Power are the highest rated horses in the past 25 years on 128, followed by Sunline & Dulcify on 126, & then Bonecrusher, Saintly & Rubiton on 125. The others on 124 were Almaraad, Gurner’s Lane, Super Impose, Let’s Elope, Schillaci & Jeune. Jim Bowler, chairman of the Australian & NZ classifications (& Victoria’s chief handicapper) said: “Northerly was up with the best in contemporary times. All great horses have a special attribute & that is will to win. Northerly had a tremendous desire not to be passed. He had a will not to be beaten.” (July 25) 19 Wins & $9.3 Million Prize-Money Northerly (Serheed-North Bell) was recently crowned Australia's Champion Horse for 2003 & was preparing for a Spring campaign in Melbourne. He won $9,340,950 prize-money from 34 starts, including 19 wins & 9 placings. His major wins included: 2000 Gr1 WATC Railway Stakes (1600m) 2001 Gr1 MVRC W.S.Cox Plate (2040m) 2001 Gr1 VATC Underwood Stakes (1800m) 2001 Gr1 VATC Yalumba Stakes (2000m) 2001 Gr1 VRC Australian Cup (2000m) 2002 Gr1 MRC Caulfield Cup (2400m) 2002 Gr1 MRC Underwood Stakes (1800m) 2002 Gr1 MVRC W.S.Cox Plate (2040m) 2003 Gr1 VRC Australian Cup (2000m) 2001 Gr2 MVRC J.F.Feehan Stakes (1600m) 2001 Gr2 VATC Carlyon Cup (1600m) 2002 Gr2 MRC St George Stakes (1800m) 2002 Gr2 VRC Craiglee Stakes (1600m) 2002 Gr2 VRC Turnbull Stakes (2000m) 2003 Gr2 MRC St George Stakes (1800m) 2000 Gr3 WATC R.J.Peters Stakes (1500m) 2000 Listed WATC Aquanita Stakes (1400m) 2001 Listed WATC Goodwood Sprint (1300m) (July 25) Dye Opinion 1: HK Media ‘Ferocious’ Former leading Sydney jockey Shane Dye (back in Australia during the annual 2-month ‘lay-off’ in HK racing) has given this morning’s Sydney Morning Herald his assessment of HK racing, described by the newspaper as “the toughest jockey compound in the world”. Dye summed up: “It’s hard work, very mentally tough, very physically tough. Only the tough survive in HK, no risk about that. You only ride twice a week, but it’s 10 months of solid work, no rest, with ups & downs, it’s not easy. The Chinese papers, even TV, can be ferocious. You get rubbished & criticised every week for nothing, but I like them, I talk to them all the time. It is a place where, if you are going good it’s good, if not it’s hard.” (July 25) Dye Opinion 2: HK System ‘Best In World’ Assessing the HK racing system, Shane Dye told The Sydney Morning Herald he believes the programming of races with a ratings system “is the best in the world”. He acknowledged implementing the system in Australia would be difficult, due to the vast number of horses here. In HK the horse population is about 1200, with Dye noting the ratings method ensures there are full fields at every meeting: “Horses get evaluated & go up & down depending on performance. There is always a race you can win; every horse can win a race. In Australia, once you’ve reached your class the horse is gone; they win a race or 2 & they are gone.” (July 25) Dye Opinion 3: Too Much Aust Racing Commenting on the state of Australian racing generally, Shane Dye told The Sydney Morning Herald: “It’s good they’re getting rid of Sunday racing; no-one wanted it. The carnivals are getting better & better, but the ordinary racing is no good; there’s too much racing. No sport in the world goes every day, all year. People are going to the carnivals, but they won’t come back to mid-week racing; it’s gone. The TABs are running racing, they want a dollar every day, they are betting on everything. Imagine if there was rugby league every day or State of Origin was played every week. That would soon get boring. It’s just common sense.” (July 25) Dye Opinion 4: Aust Spring Racing Tips And asked which local horses he would “like to be riding at Spring time in Australia”, Shane Dye told The Sydney Morning Herald: “I like Platinum Scissors. I don’t know whether the trip to Brisbane would have done him any good, but on his Derby run he showed he’d be an ideal Melbourne Cup horse. Lonhro is a real good horse, while Thorn Park shows a lot of promise. He is up & coming, hasn’t reached his potential yet & Bobby (Thomsen, his trainer) knows how to handle a good horse.” (July 25) Newcastle Honours Perry & Choisir Newcastle will honour local trainer Paul Perry & connections of his history-making colt Choisir with a series of special events beginning with a civic reception by Newcastle City Council at the City Hall from 4pm this afternoon. The Newcastle Jockey Club will continue the tribute with a ‘Choisir Race Day’ at Broadmeadow tomorrow. NJC chief executive John Curtis told racenet.com.au: "Races will be named in honour of the team behind Choisir & there will be a special presentation made to them on the day. We've planned a 'royal' day to help celebrate the occasion with music, entertainment & free top hats & tiaras. There will be free entry & it would be great to see a big crowd on hand to congratulate everyone behind this remarkable feat." The NJC yesterday unveiled a new billboard on the main road outside Broadmeadow racecourse as part of the celebration: it depicts Perry with Choisir after winning the Gr1 Golden Jubilee Stakes in record time at England’s Royal Ascot & is titled 'Winners Are Grinners'. (July 25) Wyong & Newcastle ‘Strategic Alliance’ Meanwhile Newcastle Jockey Club & Wyong Race Club “have formed a strategic alliance aimed at stream-lining running costs” in a bid to boost prize-money. WRC chief executive Tony Drew told The Sydney Morning Herald: We have been proactive with the key issues paper released by Racing NSW. Our Board has decided that 'issues paper' is the future. It is not a take-over, it is not a merger, it is an alliance.” Drew noted both clubs were now seeking to “identify financial savings” in areas like corporate services, marketing divisions & occupational health & safety departments, adding: “We have also spoken to the AJC in the same frame & met with a positive response.” (July 25) Sommes Sound Returns To Zeditave Brian Marheine’s Stratheden Stud has decided “to return to a proven formula with talented broodmare Sommes Sound by selecting Zeditave as her stud partner for the 2003 breeding season,” reported The Sydney Morning Herald. Sommes Sound has twice previously been mated with Newhaven Park-based stallion Zeditave: producing top-liners Assertive Lad (3 Gr1s & $3.3 million prize-money) & Assertive Lass (2 Gr1s & $700,000 prize-money). In recent years Sommes Sound has been sent to Danehill, but with his death Zeditave is back as his replacement. (July 25) Urgent Request’s Dual Hemisphere Winners Emirates Park Stud’s Urgent Request has had “a timely boost for his Australian stud career” noted racenet.com.au with dual hemisphere winners this week: 3YO filly Belle Frimousse’s win at Sandown-Lakeside in Melbourne on Wednesday followed 4YO mare Shalini’s US victory in the Listed Valkyr Stakes (1 mile on turf) at Hollywood Park 4 days earlier. Shalini (Urgent Request-Code It Nikki, by Falstaff) now has 5 wins & 7 placings from just 19 starts for US$328,929 prize-money. This year Shalini has also won the Listed Pro & Con Handicap (8 furlongs) at Santa Anita & Listed Fran’s Valentine Stakes (8 furlongs) at Hollywood Park. Belle Frimousse (ex La Tonkinoise by Snaadee) has 2 wins & 3 placings from 12 starts; she is 1 of just 20 live foals from the 1st crop of Urgent Request. A son of Blushing Groom, Urgent Request won the UK Gr3 Rose Of Lancaster Stakes (10 furlongs) at Haydock before travelling to America & winning the US$1 million Gr1 Santa Anita Handicap at his first American start (leading all the way in 1min 59.1sec, the fastest 10 furlongs run in North America in 1995). He subsequently equaled the world record for 1 mile on turf (1min 32.2sec) in winning the Gr3 Oak Tree Breeders Cup Mile at Santa Anita by 4 lengths, & also won the Gr2 San Marcos Handicap by 9 lengths, before finishing runner-up to Red Bishop in the Gr1 Hong Kong Vase. Urgent Request stands at Emirates Park Stud at Diggers Rest in Victoria this season for $5,500 (including GST). (July 25) Paeroa NZ’s 1st Privately-Owned Track Paeroa racecourse has become NZ's 1st privately-owned racetrack. The Paeroa Racing Club reached an agreement at a committee meeting yesterday to sell the 120-year-old racecourse, reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz, for a price “understood to be NZ$900,000”. The new owner is a Paeroa-based group known as the Barbara Anderson Trust (including Barbara Anderson & her husband Tony Richards, a local Toyota franchise holder, as well as another Paeroa individual). There were 3 offers for the course, “including 1 from leading trans-Tasman trainer Graeme Rogerson.” The deal “means the track is leased back to Paeroa Racing Club so it can continue to conduct race-meetings on the course.” (July 25) Japanese Results Spotlight Aust-NZ Breeding Links Recent Japanese results have highlighted a number of Australian & NZ breeding connections, reported racenet.com.au: Arrowfield veteran Snippets notched a winner when 3YO gelding Setono Snipper (ex Aspirant by Native Aspen) scored over 1200m at Kokura. Setono Snipper is a three-quarter brother to AJC Breeders’ Plate winner High Rolling (by Snippets), now a member of the stallion roster at Riverdene Stud at Wagga Wagga. Fellow Arrowfield stallion Dehere sired a double: Green Billboard (ex Mims Return by Woodman), winner of the Oze Tokubetsu over 1200m at Fukushima; & 5YO Water League (ex Solo by Halo) won the Amakusa Tokubetsu over 1700m at Kokura. Chatswood Stud’s stallion Genuine (a son of Sunday Silence) recorded a winner when his 3YO filly Jo Long Run (ex Jo Charmant by Hector Protector) cruised home by 3 lengths at Hakodate. Rich Hill Stud’s Pentire had offspring Kaori Noble (ex Kaori Roman by Noble Roman) win over 1700m at Hakodate. Widden Stud’s 2-season shuttler Jade Robbery (a son of Mr Prospector) scored with 6YO Excessive Word (ex The Last Word by Northern Taste) who took the prestigious Marine Stakes (1700m) at Hakodate. Fairy King’s champion son & Arc de Triomphe winner Helissio (who returns to Widden this season) had 3YO filly Ostiense (ex Ostia Antica by A.P.Indy) win over 1800 at Kokura. In the Senkakuwan Tokubetsu over 1800m at Niigata last weekend, Keiai Grade (a son of ill-fated former NZ shuttle stallion Honor Grades) defeated Langfuhr’s colt Gourmet Japan & Fuji Kiseki’s mare Shonan Birkin. Darley Stud big gun Elusive Quality had an impressive 2YO winner at Hakodate when Star Nakayama (out of multiple stakes winner Remarkably Easy, by Regal Remark) blitzed the field by 6 lengths over 1000m. And Darley stallion Carnegie’s colt Slow Ballade (ex Narita Wakakusa by Symboli Rudolf) took out the Mutsuwan Tokubetsu over 2000m. The very next race Darley stablemate Bubble Gum Fellow’s full brother Win Schneid won the Listed Tomoe Sho (1800) by a 1 1/2-length from Tiger Café (a stakes-winning son of Sunday Silence out of Australian-bred stakes-winning mare Seto Flowerian, & a brother to the colt that topped the recent JRHA foal sale). (July 25) UK Weight-For-Age Championship Attracts 16 Tomorrow’s £750,000 (A$1.875 million) Gr1 King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (12 furlongs) at Ascot has attracted 14 top-drawer runners for the premier weight-for-age event on the UK racing calendar. They include: Epsom Derby winner Kris Kin; Irish Derby hero Alamshar; Coronation Cup winner Warrsan; Japan Cup & Eclipse Stakes winner Falbrav; Prince Of Wales's Stakes winner Nayef; & South African-trained UAE Derby winner Victory Moon. The Godolphin stable has 3 contenders (Sulamani, Grandera & Leadership) as it bids both to win this event for the 4th time since 1997 (its previous winners were Swain twice & Daylami) & also to notch its 100th international Gr1 victory. The other entries are Bollin Eric, Indian Creek, Izdiham, Millenary & Magistretti. The race is also the 3rd leg of this year’s World Series Racing Championship. (July 25) Giant’s Causeway Full Brother Wins In Ireland Susan Magnier’s Tumblebrutus, a full brother to Coolmore shuttler & multiple Gr1 winner Giant’s Causeway, notched his 1st win (at his 3rd start) over 6 furlongs at Ireland’s Naas racecourse, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Tumblebrutus, a 2YO son of Storm Cat trained by Aidan O’Brien, is 1 of 5 foals to race (4 winners) out of multiple Gr2-winning Rahy mare Mariah’s Storm, who has produced both Giant’s Causeway & group stakes-placed winner Freud. Giant’s Causeway, a 6YO son of Storm Cat, won 6 Gr1 races in 1999 & 2000, & now shuttles between Ashford Stud in Kentucky (where he stands for US$125,000) & Coolmore in Australia (where he is standing the coming season for A$93,500 including GST). (July 25) US Gr1 Star Manndar To Stud In Ireland Dual US Gr1-winner & prize-money millionaire Manndar has been sold & will stand the 2004 season at Ballykisteen Stud in County Tipperary in Ireland, reported bloodhorse.com. The 7YO son of Doyoun (from the Diesis mare Madiriya) recently completed his 1st season at John Greely's Wintergreen Stallion Station in Kentucky. Manndar won the 2000 Gr1 Woodford Reserve Turf Classic Stakes & Gr1 Manhattan Handicap, as well as finishing 2nd in the 2000 Gr1 Arlington Million. Bred in Ireland by the Aga Khan's Studs SC, Manndar began his racing career in Europe & was a stakes winner in England. Overall he won 4 of 20 starts & earned US$1,128,835. Manndar’s 1st foals will be born next year. (July 25) Tamarisk Overcomes Fertility Woes Meanwhile Gr1 winner Tamarisk (Green Desert-Sine Labe, by Vaguely Noble), also resident at Ballykisteen, “seems to have put his fertility woes behind him,” reported racingpost.co.uk. Stud manager John Baldwin revealed the 8YO achieved 90% fertility this year from around 30 mares bred on a trial basis at Ballykisteen & noted “the secret to the horse (whose 1st crop yielded 2 foals) is high maintenance. Every mare is scanned several times, before & after covering. And we’ve only covered 1 mare a day. I always thought this horse would come right, but he’s gone beyond what we were hoping for. One breeder sent him 3 mares & all are in foal.” Plans are for Tamarisk to return to commercial duty in 2004. (July 25) Keeneland Entries Rise From Top US Sires Keeneland’s September yearling sale (over 12 sessions from September 8-20) boasts booming numbers “at the top of the market,” noted bloodhorse.com. The opening 2 sessions (which are select) offer 439 horses by stallions ranked among the Top 20 commercial yearling sires in North America in 2002 (by average price), up 26.5% from 2002 when 347 yearlings by such sires were catalogued. Overall, 13 of the Top 20 stallions have more yearlings catalogued than last year, 2 have the same number & 5 have less: Danzig: 10 last year up to 12 this year Gone West: 20 up to 25 Seeking The Gold: 19 up to 22 A.P.Indy: 23 up to 40 Unbridled: 14 up to 22 Unbridled's Song: 27 up to 40 Pulpit: 18 up to 23 Forestry: 23 up to 26 Dixieland Band: 20 up to 24 Thunder Gulch: 7 up to 41 Coronado's Quest: 19 up to 24 Gulch: 4 up to 10 Exploit: 11 up to 18 Broad Brush: 9 remains at 9 Kris S: 13 remains at 13 Storm Cat: 19 down to 18 Kingmambo: 32 down to 27 Deputy Minister: 32 down to 26 Nureyev: 3 down to 1 Theatrical: 24 down to 18 (July 25) 1st Win For US Freshman Sire Category Five US freshman sire Category Five recorded his 1st winner when Kings Category won on debut over 5 furlongs at Fairmount Park, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Category Five (an 8YO son of Storm Cat) stands at Lakeview Thoroughbred Farm in California & has sired 24 foals of racing age (Kings Category was his 2nd starter) plus 23 yearlings. Bred in Virginia by Morven Stud, Category Five won 2 of 10 starts on the track; he is 1 of 5 winners from 6 starters out of winning Nodouble mare Slinkee. (July 25) Claiming Races Generate Over US$180 Million Claiming races in North America “are capitalism at work,” summed up a detailed analysis of the sector by thoroughbredtimes.com. “Hard-trying, hard-knocking claiming horses have long been a staple of the American racing scene & they are worth exactly what they run for.” The study found US “claiming races amount to big business. The value of all horses claimed last year was US$180.2 million.” The study also reported: The average claiming price last year was US$12,730. The most popular claiming levels last year were from US$2,500 to US$7,499 (41% of all horses claimed). Claiming activity is generally proportional to purses, with greatest activity at large tracks such as Churchill Downs, Del Mar & Santa Anita Park. Claiming horses is a growth industry: in 1997 10,404 horses were claimed from 319,809 claiming starts (a 3.3% take rate) with total value of claimed horses US$122.6 million. In 2001, the number of claims increased to 13,324 (a 4.4% take rate) with total value of claimed horses soaring to US$174.5 million. And in 2002 the growth continued, with claims increasing to 14,158 & a dollar volume of US$180.2 million. (July 25) Chilean Jockeys Killed In Race Falls Two Chilean jockeys have been killed in spectacular track falls, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. At Hipodromo Antofagasta jockey Francisco Laprida, 35, lost an iron aboard Roico & was dragged nearly a furlong “which caused his death”. And at Hipodromo Chile, 4 riders crashed during a race & “suffered multiple injuries”, including Javier Nino, Rodrigo Varas, Roberto Araya & Manuel Gonzalez. Nino, 36, suffered a skull fracture & was immediately transported to UCI University of Chile Clinic Hospital, where he passed away from brain injuries. Nino had began riding in Chile after immigrating from Colombia in 1995, hoping to follow the successful footsteps of his countryman Anyelo Rivera, currently a top rider in Chile. Nino won 561 races in Chile, headed by his win in the 1997 Gr1 Tanteo de Potrancas aboard Medina Sidonia. (July 25) Equine Disease Could Help Parkinson’s Sufferers Friday Odd Spot: Scientists at Oxford Biomedica in England are working on a treatment for Parkinson’s disease “that would use the virus from Equine Infectious Anemia to help the patient’s body produce dopamine in the brain.” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Parkinson’s affects the nervous system by inhibiting the brain’s ability to produce dopamine-producing cells. Current treatment involves synthetic dopamine, but severe side effects are possible. By using the EIA virus, the side effects are curtailed & the treatment lasts longer. Scientists have engineered the virus so that it is incapable of reproducing, yet still able to produce the dopamine. The scientists said human trials would begin early next year. (July 25) Octagonal Lands French Double Woodlands Stud’s champion galloper & former Australian Horse-Of-The-Year Octagonal (also Australia’s leading resident sire this season) has notched a winning double in France, with victories by offspring Guatre & Polygonal. In addition, his 3YO filly Mahora (ex Moon Review) finished a close 3rd in the Listed Prix Madame Jean Couturie on Tuesday for the Head family. (July 24) Over’s 1st Crop Pleases Breeders Meanwhile, with the start of the new Australian season next week, the oldest progeny of Gr1 winner Over (Dr Grace-Tromper, by Lunchtime) become yearlings. Woodlands Stud reports “the majority of Over’s progeny are well-grown, strong-bodied types & vendors look forward to next year’s yearling sales series across Australia.” Over is best remembered for conquering champion race mare Sunline in the 2000 Gr1 AJC Doncaster Handicap at Royal Randwick; overall he notched 8 wins (from 1100-1600m) & 6 placings in 20 starts, earning $2,147,935. (July 24) Noblett Appointed Sutton Grange Trainer Andrew Noblett has been appointed trainer for Peter Siddell’s Sutton Grange in central Victoria (from the beginning of the new season on August 1), following the recent resignation of Robbie Laing. Noblett, 34, is currently assistant trainer to Adelaide-based Leon Macdonald & is in charge of his Melbourne stables at Caulfield. Noblett has worked for Macdonald for 8 years, looking after top-level performers Gold Guru, Umrum & Hydrometer. He told aapracingandsports.com.au: "This is a good opportunity to step out by myself. It's a big responsibility, but I'm looking forward to it." Noblett’s new charges will include talented rising 3YOs Dress Code, Cannyopra & Divine Secret. (July 24) Danehill Leads Aust Sires List With just 1 week to go to the end of the 2002-03 Australian racing season on July 31, Danehill still leads Serheed & Dehere on the General Sires List (by prize-money). The current Top 30 (after last weekend’s racing) are: 1: Danehill $7,022,469. 2: Serheed $6,363,237. 3: Dehere $5,461,480. 4: Snippets $4,479,270. 5: Octagonal $4,374,616. 6: Zabeel $4,227,461. 7: Encosta de Lago $4,034,285. 8: Success Express $3,850,322. 9: Grand Lodge $3,799,718. 10: Hennessy $3,756,977. 11: Rubiton $3,488,448. 12: Royal Academy $3,450,433. 13: Quest For Fame $2,958,742. 14: Canny Lad $2,782,659. 15: Danehill Dancer $2,670,948. 16: Secret Savings $2,612,665. 17: Rory's Jester $2,596,011. 18: Theatrical $2,565,000. 19: Jeune $2,460,942. 20: Umatilla $2,460,332. 21: Geiger Counter $2,390,073. 22: Flying Spur $2,304,821. 23: Helissio $2,246,430. 24: Clang $2,225,737. 25: Last Tycoon $2,143,312. 26: Scenic $2,131,471. 27: El Moxie $2,121,155. 28: Zeditave $2,111,202. 29: Danewin $2,061,805. 30: Anabaa $2,036,540. (July 24) Giovana To Visit Zabeel NZ’s 4-time Gr1 winner Giovana will visit 8-time Dewar Award-winning stallion Zabeel this year, reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. (Zabeel claimed his 8th consecutive Dewar Award this season for highest NZ-based sire on combined Australian-NZ progeny earnings.) Giovana is due to produce her 1st foal on August 20, after being covered last year by Fusaichi Pegasus at Coolmore Stud in Australia. Giovana’s 4 Gr1 wins were the Queensland Oaks, Whakanui Stud International Stakes, NZ Oaks Classic & NZ Thorndon Mile. (July 24) 5th 2YO Winner For Freshman Sire Danske Yesterday’s win by Kiwi-bred 2YO Perodan over 1400m at Sandown in Melbourne “marked the 5th individual winner for his 1st-crop sire Danske” (who stands at Windsor Park Stud in NZ) noted thoroughbrednews.co.nz. Danske has had 3 stakes performers in NZ: Quite Astute, Danette & Tadan. (July 24) Tayasu Tsuyoshi’s Winning Stream For Shadai Tayasu Tsuyoshi failed to make much impression with local breeders in his 3 seasons at South Australia’s Kambula Stud, “however the regally-related son of Sunday Silence continues to provide a steady stream of winners from his northern hemisphere base at Shadai Stallion Station in Japan,” reported racenet.com.au. His latest star 4YO D.S.Thunder (Tayasu Tsuyoshi-After Dinner, by Maruzensky) won the Gr3 Mercury Cup (2000m) on the dirt at Morioka racetrack earlier this week, following victories in both the Alexandrite Stakes (1800m) at Nakayama & Brilliant Stakes (2100m) at Tokyo. Tayasu Tsuyoshi (Sunday Silence-Magaro, by Caro) won 4 of his 13 starts, including the Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) & finished 2nd in the Satsuki Sho (2000 Guineas); Magaro’s dam Magic (by Buckpasser) is a half-sister to American Horse-Of-The-Year Dr Fager & champion sprinter Tee Wa. (July 24) Fuji Kiseki Also Firing In Japan Another son of Sunday Silence not returning to Australia this season “is also enjoying a great run of success in Japan,” noted racenet.com.au. Fuji Kiseki (who stood at Arrowfield for 5 seasons) produced a treble of winners at Hakodate racetrack recently & another at Niigata on the same day. (July 24) Indian Star Aims At HK Vijay Mallya's 4YO gelding Classical Act (Placerville-Stunning, by Ascot Knight) has scored an easy 4 length victory in India’s Bangalore St Leger. It was the 2nd major win of the year for Classical Act, “who may travel to Singapore for a tilt at their International Cup later this year,” reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Classical Act's granddam is a half-sister to both Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe winner & classic sire Sassafras, & to Typha (dam of French Gr1 Criterium des Pouliches winner Oak Hill). (July 24) Gr1 Winner Booklet To Stand At Glencrest Farm Booklet (winner of last season’s Gr1 Fountain of Youth Stakes at Gulfstream Park & retired earlier this year) will enter stud in 2004 at Glencrest Farm in Kentucky, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Glencrest purchased an interest in the 4YO son of Notebook from owner John Oxley. Bred in Florida, Booklet (the lone foal produced by unraced Bob’s Dusty mare Crafty Bobbie) won 7 of 14 starts (plus 3 placings) & US$989,460 prize-money. Glencrest spokesman David Greathouse announced: "We believe Booklet fits the mould of the Glencrest stallions who have proven most successful: Full Out, Clever Trick, Mining & American Chance. He’s a great miler, with enough speed for 2 turns, & those are the kinds of horses who make the best stallions." (July 24) 1st Win For US Freshman Sire American Champ US freshman sire American Champ recorded his 1st winner when Diva Star romped home by over 9 lengths at Prairie Meadows, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. American Champ, who stands at Moehrig Ranch in Texas, won 9 of 21 starts (including 7 stakes, most notably the 1997 Best Turn Stakes, 1997 Fred Capossela Stakes, 1998 Groovy Stakes & 1999 Damitrius Stakes). The 9YO son of Jolie’s Halo (out of unraced Heart Of America, by Northern Jove) has sired 1 starter from 12 foals of racing age & also has 18 yearlings. He is a half-brother to stakes-placed winner Short Engagement & his 2nd dam Gold Mine is a full sister to Mr Prospector. (July 24) UK Star Emperor Jones Shuttles To Argentina English Gr2 winner Emperor Jones will shuttle to Argentina to stand the coming Southern Hemisphere season at Haras Firmamento “following an agreement reached by Firmamento’s owner Juan Carlos Bago & the French-based Haras Du Quesnay,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 13-year-old Kentucky-bred son of Danzig won 4 races in England (including the 1994 Gr2 Juddmonte Lockinge Stakes & 1993 Gr3 Craven Stakes) & another in the United Arab Emirates. Emperor Jones is out of stakes-placed Native Royalty mare Qui Royalty, who also produced English 2YO champion Bakharoff & Gr3 winner Sum. With 227 foals from 5 crops of racing age, Emperor Jones has sired 96 winners & 10 stakes winners, including Janet (winner of the 2001 Gr1 Ramona Handicap at Del Mar & Gr1 Yellow Ribbon Stakes at Santa Anita Park). (July 24) Ricardo Wins 22nd Brazilian Jockey Title Brazilian jockey Jorge Ricardo, 43, has won his 22nd consecutive riding title at Hipodromo La Gavea, in Rio de Janeiro, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Ricardo, Brazil’s all-time leading rider with 8,468 winners, rode 277 winners in the 2002-03 season at Gavea. (July 24) Argentine Plunder 1: Potra Fabulous Sold To US Sign Of The Times: Potra Fabulous, winner of the Argentina’s Gr1 Gran Premio Estrellas Distaff last month, “has been sold to an undisclosed North American buyer & is expected to be shipped to the US to continue her campaign,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 4YO daughter of champion sire Potrillon has won 4 of 10 starts, also including the Gr2 Clásico Ricardo Ezequiel & Ezequiel M. Fernández Guerrico & Gr3 Clásico Círculo de Propietarios de Caballerizas de SPC. Potra Fabulous is out of winning Liloy mare I’mso Fabulous (dam of 3 other winners). (July 24) Argentine Plunder 2: The Eden & Indio Helix To US Potra Fabulous will be joined on her North American journey by Argentine Gr2 winner The Eden & 18-length maiden winner Indio Helix. “Both also were sold to the unidentified North American buyer,” revealed thoroughbredtimes.com. The Eden, a 3YO son of Nijinsky II stallion Conner, notched his 3rd consecutive group victory on July 13 in the Gr2 Clasico Isidoro Aramburu at La Plata. A winner of 4 races, The Eden is out of Kasteel mare Cumbria (daughter of Gr1-placed Caledonia). And Indio Helix, a 3YO son of Cobb’s Creek out of Sundae stakes-winning mare Potrillaza, won his only start at San Isidro by 18 lengths on July 9. (July 24) Argentine Plunder 3: Volterromo To US And Argentine sprinter Volterromo “has been purchased by North American owner Michael Cooper” (who campaigned Horse-Of-The-Year & 2-time Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Classic winner Tiznow), reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 4YO son of Luhuk, who will resume his career in California, has won 5 of 27 starts including the Gr2 Coronel Pringles & Gr3 Benito Lynch; at his most recent start he was 3rd in the Gr1 Gran Premio Estrellas Sprint at San Isidro on June 28. Volterromo is the 1st foal to start out of placed Southern Halo mare Acura. New owner Cooper also owns Argentine-bred Avanzado (also by Luhuk), whose most recent win was the Gr2 Palos Verdes Handicap at Santa Anita Park in January. (July 24) Breeders Cup 1: Future Bet Starts On Weekend The US National Thoroughbred Racing Association has announced the fields for this weekend's Period 1 of the Breeders' Cup Future Bet, reported bloodhorse.com. (The Future Bet challenges punters to select in advance the winners of the October 25 Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championship races at Santa Anita in California.) Races open for wagering this weekend are the Breeders' Cup Classic, Breeders' Cup Distaff, Breeders' Cup Sprint & Breeders' Cup Turf. Under Future Bet rules, each race offers individual pari-mutuel wagering on 23 runners, plus 1 ‘field’ entry (consisting of all horses not in the body of 23 for each respective race). (July 24) Breeders Cup 2: Medaglia d'Oro Favourite For Classic Medaglia d'Oro, winner of the Oaklawn Handicap & Strub Stakes earlier this year, has been listed as early favorite for the Breeders' Cup Classic at 5-1. Mineshaft, recent impressive winner of the Suburban Handicap, is next at 6-1. Belmont Stakes victor Empire Maker is at 8-1, while Kentucky Derby & Preakness Stakes winner Funny Cide is 15-1. The Future Bet field is: 1: Azeri 15-1 2: Congaree 12-1 3: Dollar Bill 50-1 4: Empire Maker 8-1 5: Evening Attire 30-1 6: Eye Of The Tiger 50-1 7: Funny Cide 15-1 8: Harlan's Holiday 30-1 9: Iron Deputy 50-1 10: Kudos 50-1 11: Medaglia d'Oro 5-1 12: Milwaukee Brew 15-1 13: Mineshaft 6-1 14: Moon Ballad 20-1 15: Peace Rules 30-1 16: Perfect Drift 15-1 17: Saarland 30-1 18: Sky Mesa 30-1 19: Soto 30-1 20: Ten Most Wanted 30-1 21: Volponi 20-1 22: Wando 30-1 23: Wild And Wicked 50-1 24: Field 15-1 (July 24) Breeders Cup 3: Azeri Favourite For Distaff Champion mare Azeri is a strong early favourite for the Breeders' Cup Distaff at 8-5. She is followed by Sightseek at 10-1 & Arrowfield stallion Hussonet’s boom Chilean daughter Wild Spirit (unbeaten in the US) at 12-1. The Future Bet field is: 1: Affluent 50-1 2: Atlantic Ocean 50-1 3: Azeri 8-5 4: Bare Necessities 50-1 5: Bird Town 15-1 6: Cee's Elegance 50-1 7: Elloluv 30-1 8: Got Koko 20-1 9: Hennie's Song 50-1 10: Imperial Gesture 20-1 11: Lady Tak 30-1 12: Mandy's Gold 50-1 13: Roar Emotion 50-1 14: Santa Catarina 20-1 15: Sightseek 10-1 16: Sister Girl Blues 30-1 17: Smoke 'n Frolic 50-1 18: Spoken Fur 15-1 19: Summer Colony 30-1 20: Take Charge Lady 20-1 21: Wild Spirit 12-1 22: Yell 50-1 23: You 30-1 24: Field 15-1 (July 24) Breeders Cup 4: Shake You Down Favourite For Sprint In the Breeders' Cup Sprint division, Shake You Down is the early favourite at 4-1, followed by Aldebaran at 6-1, & both Congaree & Midas Eyes at 12-1. The Future Bet field is: 1: Aldebaran 6-1 2: Beau's Town 30-1 3: Bluesthestandard 30-1 4: Captain Squire 15-1 5: Congaree 12-1 6: Crafty C.T. 30-1 7: Disturbingthepeace 30-1 8: Ghostzapper 30-1 9: Gygistar 20-1 10: Hombre Rapido 30-1 11: House Party 50-1 12: Joey Franco 30-1 13: Kona Gold 20-1 14: Midas Eyes 12-1 15: Mountain General 50-1 16: My Cousin Matt 20-1 17: Oasis Dream 30-1 18: Peeping Tom 30-1 19: Posse 20-1 20: Publication 30-1 21: Shake You Down 4-1 22: State City 30-1 23: Valid Video 30-1 24: Field 10-1 (July 24) Breeders Cup 5: High Chaparral Favourite For Turf Irish star High Chaparral heads a very open early betting market for the Breeders' Cup Turf at 8-1, ahead of Prince of Wales Stakes winner Nayef at 10-1, followed by Storming Home, English Derby winner Kris Kin & Dalakhani at 12-1, & then Japan Cup & Eclipse Stakes champ Falbrav, Godolphin’s Sulamani & Irish Derby hero Alamshar at 15-1. The Future Bet field is: 1: Alamshar 15-1 2: Ange Gabriel 20-1 3: Ballingarry 30-1 4: Balto Star 30-1 5: Dalakhani 12-1 6: Denon 20-1 7: Dr. Brendler 50-1 8: Falbrav 15-1 9: High Chaparral 8-1 10: Honor in War 20-1 11: Islington 20-1 12: Johar 30-1 13: Kris Kin 12-1 14: Nayef 10-1 15: Perfect Drift 20-1 16: Requete 20-1 17: Senor Swinger 50-1 18: Storming Home 12-1 19: Strut The Stage 50-1 20: Sulamani 15-1 21: The Great Gatsby 20-1 22: The Tin Man 50-1 23: Vespone 20-1 24: Field 12-1 (July 24) Funny Cide Beer Flows In US Thursday Odd Spot: Sackatoga Stable principals “have given their blessing” to a beer 6-pack featuring their dual US 3YO classic winner Funny Cide, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Funny Cide Light beer hits American shopping shelves next week in a 6-pack of bottles retailing for US$6.99. The beer will also be available on tap. Meanwhile New York’s latest sporting idol Funny Cide (who captured the nation’s imagination with his bid to win this year’s US 3YO Triple Crown: he captured the initial 2 legs in the Kentucky Derby & Preakness Stakes before a gallant final leg defeat in the Belmont Stakes) is expected to return to the track in the Gr1 Haskell Invitational Handicap on August 3 at Monmouth Park followed by the Gr1 Travers Stakes on August 23 at Saratoga Race Course. (July 24) Cox Plate 1: Japan Offers $1.3 Million Bonus The $3 million Gr1 Cox Plate (2040m) at Moonee Valley on October 25 is attracting international attention on a number of fronts. The Japan Racing Association (a fellow World Series Racing Championship partner) has announced that, if a horse can win the Cox Plate & then go on to add the Gr1 Japan Cup, it will win a special bonus of US$837,000 (A$1.3 million). The Japan Cup (2400m) on November 30 already boasts prize-money of US$3,966,660 (A$6.1 million). (July 23) Cox Plate 2: Japan’s Magnaten May Enter Japanese trainer Kazuo Fujisawa has indicated 7YO Magnaten (Danzig-Magic Night, by Le Nain Jaune) may be aimed at the Cox Plate. Thoroughbredinternet.com reports Fuijsawa told the Japanese press Australia's premier weight-for-age event “is being considered as an option” for the gelding who finished 4th in last year's Japan Cup & also won the Gr2 American Jockey Cup (2200m) at Nakayama in January. (July 23) Cox Plate 3: US Star Receives Invitation And connections of US star Perfect Drift “have received an invitation for the Gr1 winner to compete in the Cox Plate” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Australian Murray Johnson trains Perfect Drift for Stonecrest Farm. Last year Perfect Drift won the Turfway Prevue & Gr2 Lane’s End Spiral Stakes before finishing 3rd in the Gr1 Kentucky Derby. This year Perfect Drift has defeated multiple Gr1 winner Mineshaft in the Gr1 Stephen Foster Handicap & most recently captured the Gr2 Washington Park Handicap by 5 lengths at Arlington Park last weekend. His next race will probably be the Gr1 Arlington Million on August 16. Johnson noted after the Stephen Foster win that he “would not mind seeing Perfect Drift compete on the international level.” Perfect Drift has won 7 of 14 career starts (including 5 stakes) for US$1,549,868 (A$2.4 million) prize-money. The 4YO gelded son of Dynaformer is out of stakes-winning Naskra mare Nice Gal. (July 23) Elevenses To Visit Rock Of Gibraltar NZ’s dual Gr1-winning mare Elevenses will be sent to Coolmore’s Australian-based shuttle stallion Rock Of Gibraltar this spring, reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. The Star Way mare (owned by Fayette Park Stud) retired from the track during the autumn; she won the Gr1 NZ 1000 Guineas at Riccarton as a 3YO & dead-heated with Tit For Taat in this season’s Gr1 Captain Cook Stakes at Riccarton. (July 23) Calming’s Dam To Choisir And NSW breeder John Muir has confirmed he is sending his mare All Kisses (dam of last weekend’s Caulfield winner Calming) to Coolmore’s potential sire sensation Choisir. (July 23) Coolmore’s Northern Success Continues July is certainly proving a big month for Coolmore around the globe. As well as purchasing Australian sprint star Choisir: Stravinsky recorded his 1st stakes winner when 2YO colt Venables won the Listed Rose Bowl Stakes at Newbury in England. (Stravinsky has sired 13 winners from his initial 24 runners). Second Empire sired his 1st winner Dark Empress at Warwick in England, & immediately followed with 8-length victor Miss Mission in France & Vegas Dream in Italy. Entrepreneur notched his 1st Gr1 winner & 1st Classic winner when Vintage Tipple took the Irish Oaks, & immediately followed with last weekend’s win by Princely Venture in the Gr2 Scottish Derby at Ayr. And Hennessy now has more stake-winners & group/graded-winners (5 & 3) than any other sire on the planet, ahead of Tale Of The Cat (4 & 2). (July 23) Hennessy 2YO Speedsters Blitz Rivals Meanwhile 2 of Hennessy’s recent US winners are attracting plenty of northern attention: Unbeaten Cactus Ridge, winner of the Listed Canterbury Park Juvenile Stakes, annihilated his opposition to win by 15 lengths; in the process, he went close to breaking a 14-year-old track record & earned a Beyer speed figure of 100 (the highest earned by any 2YO in the US so far this year). And Heckle won on debut by nearly 13 lengths to equal Keeneland’s 37-year-old track record; he followed up with victory by 3.25 lengths in the prestigious Tremont Stakes; & most recently added a Gr3 win at Belmont Park. (July 23) Lion Hunter Staying At Oaklands Despite rumours to the contrary, Queensland stallion Lion Hunter “is not moving anywhere & is looking at a full book of mares for the season at Oaklands Stud at Toowoomba,” reported racenet.com.au. Major shareholder Neville Stewart declared: "The only way this horse would be moving from this stud is if I voted for it! I am the single major shareholder & he's not going anywhere. Obviously if a stud, for example in the Hunter Valley, came up with an offer too good to refuse, we would look at it. But I can categorically confirm that right now he is staying here with us. There have been no offers, no discussion & no resolution. He's going along really well & he's again looking at a full book of mares for this season." Lion Hunter is standing for $15,000 (including GST) this season. (July 23) Grafton Stars Highlight Bargain Sires The results of Grafton’s winter carnival feature stakes double highlighted 2 bargain-priced stallions, reported racenet.com.au. The $125,000 Qantaslink Ramornie Handicap (1200m) went to Queensland-bred 3YO Sir Breakfast, a son of Lunchtime sire Breakfast Creek, currently standing at Andrew Wilson’s Tarrendene Stud at Chinchilla for just $1,500. And the $175,000 Tooheys New Grafton Cup (2400m) was taken out by 5YO gelding Belus, a son of Bletcharm, a Bletchingly sire who stood at Widden Stud in the NSW Hunter Valley for $1,000 & is now in China. (Belus started his racing career in HK, but a tendon problem after a debut win saw him return to Australia; following a year in the paddock, he has come back to win 5 more races & $430,000 prize-money.) (July 23) King Cugat’s 1st Foals Due Soon History “is to be made in the Widden Valley in August” with the arrival of the 1st foals by dual hemisphere sire King Cugat (by Kingmambo), noted racenet.com.au. His southern hemisphere ownership is shared by Antony Thompson’s Widden Stud & Gerry Harvey’s neighbouring Baramul Stud. Harvey (who boasts a stable of 200 quality broodmares) provided nearly 40 of the 103 mares which went to King Cugat last season; among those now due to have King Cugat foals at Baramul are 3 mares by Danehill & others by Sir Tristram, Rory’s Jester, Kenmare, Marauding, Luskin Star, Godswalk & Bluebird. The 1st season book for King Cugat (who stands at Widden for $16,500) also included mares by Marscay, Zeditave, Fairy King, Palace Music, Barathea, Zabeel, Rubiton, Quest For Fame, Blushing John, Night Shift, Sir Ivor, Salieri & Danzero. On the track King Cugat claimed American grass champion honours as a 3YO & totalled 7 wins & 8 placings (including 5 Gr1 2nds) in 16 career starts, earning US$1,293,782. (July 23) New Season Eyes On Bianconi With the new Australian racing season barely a week away, Collingrove’s young shuttler Bianconi is attracting attention on 2 fronts: he is standing again at Collingrove Victoria’s Nagambie property for $7,700 (including GST); & many leading stables who invested in his athletic looking individuals at the sales this year are now anticipating the appearance of his 1st Australian juveniles on the track. Bianconi’s youngsters sold up to $180,000 on the Gold Coast & $142,500 in Adelaide, while his 1st Northern Hemisphere 2YO crop sold up to A$355,000 (& during 2002 his 1st crop yearlings in the US sold to A$400,000). Meanwhile local trainers including Tony McEvoy, Tony Noonan, Bruce McLachlan, Rick Hore-Lacy, Peter Morgan, Leon Corstens, Guy Walter, David Edwards, Ross McDonald & Garry Portelli have been entrusted with a Bianconi youngster. A champion 3YO sprinter on the track, Bianconi’s bloodlines are faultless: he is by champion sire & proven sire of sires Danzig from Gr1-winning champion broodmare Fall Aspen. (As well as Bianconi, Fall Aspen is the dam of Gr1 winners Timber County, Fort Wood, Northern Aspen & Hamas, as well as Gr2 winning dams of world champion Dubai Millenium & Gr1 stars Mehtaaf & Elnadim). Already Bianconi is away & winning as a sire in the US. (July 23) Perugino On Fire In Europe Meanwhile impeccably-bred, Collingrove-owned sire Perugino (also by Danzig) continues to record impressive results in Europe. His latest batch of northern winners include Let’s Get It On (ex Let’s Clic Together by Don’t Forget Me), Aspassocondaisy (ex Double Top by Thatching), Dezan (ex Lady Anna Livia by Ahonoora), Finnj (ex Baie Sauvage by Bering), Paper (ex Paare by Pitskelly) & Why Not Babe (ex Money Spinner by Teenoso). Down Under, Perugino is the sire (from just 2 crops of racing age) of Gr1 winners Sudurka & Testa Rossa. He is standing the 2003 breeding season at Collingrove Victoria for $13,200 (including GST). (July 23) Brisbane, Sunshine & Gold Coast Clubs Join Forces The Brisbane Turf Club has instituted “reciprocal rights agreements” with both the Sunshine Coast & Gold Coast Turf Clubs “to provide greater membership benefits & closer working relationships”. BTC chairman Ian Baxter told aapracingandsports.com.au the agreement will enable BTC members to utilise members' facilities at both provincial clubs, while Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast Turf Club members would have reciprocal rights at Doomben. Baxter summed up: "This is an exciting development & we are pleased that these like-minded clubs can work together. The 3 clubs have taken the initiative to develop relationships that will benefit racing in Queensland.” (July 23) Victorian Country Prize-Money Falls 6.5% Country Racing Victoria chairman Michael Caveny yesterday emphasised that CRV is “leading the industry in developing the core business of racing” & the announcement to reduce prize-money “was brought about by external forces”. Caveny noted: “It is important that we act to protect the assets of CRV & the clubs. Due to factors beyond our control, we’ve lost approximately $3.2 million of revenue & it is not prudent to spend income we will not receive. Up until this point, the growth that country racing has achieved has been shared with its stakeholders. Over the past 5 years, prize-money has increased by 34.9% & total returns to owners by 32.3%.” He added that “in the last year alone, CRV prize-money increased 13.1% & returns to owners 13.5%. The reduction announced yesterday represents a downturn of approximately 6.5%.” (July 23) Weld’s Latest International Raid Irish training wizard Dermot Weld pulled off his latest international raid when 3YO colt Evolving Tactics (Machiavellian-Token Gesture, by Alzao) won the Gr2 American Derby (9.5 furlongs on turf) at Arlington Park. Bred & raced by Moyglare Stud, Evolving Tactics' dam Token Gesture won the Gr3 Park Stakes & is a half-sister to Bay Meadows Handicap winner Wait Till Monday; Evolving Tactics' 3rd dam Magazine won the Gr1 CCA Oaks & “this is the immediate family of multiple Australian Gr1 winner Intergaze,” noted thoroughbredinternet.com. (July 23) Kafwain Joins Sire At Darley Kentucky US Gr2 winner Kafwain (injured just days before a scheduled start in the Gr1 Kentucky Derby) “will join his sire Cherokee Run & stand his 1st season at Darley at Jonabell Farm” in Kentucky in 2004, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 3YO Kentucky-bred (out of stakes-winning Moment Of Hope mare Swazi’s Moment) will stand his 1st season for US$10,000. Darley at Jonabell director of stallions Jimmy Bell commented: "Kafwain is the complete package, with his looks, brilliant speed & that added ability to negotiate 2 turns. We feel Cherokee Run's future is extremely bright & Kafwain has all the makings to follow in his father's footsteps." Cherokee Run (North America’s leading freshman sire in 1999) stands for US$20,000. Kafwain (purchased for US$720,000 at the 2002 Fasig-Tipton Calder selected 2YOs-In-Training sale by the late Ahmed bin Salman’s The Thoroughbred Corporation) won 4 of 11 career starts (plus 5 placings) & earned US$715,848; his 2YO victories included the Gr2 Norfolk Stakes at Santa Anita Park & Gr3 Best Pal Stakes at Del Mar, plus a 2nd (behind stablemate Vindication) in the Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Arlington Park. (He was duly awarded 122 on the 2YO US Experimental Free Handicap, behind only Vindication & Toccet.) As a 3YO he was considered a top Triple Crown candidate after victory in the Gr2 San Vicente Stakes (7 furlongs) at Santa Anita, followed by a 2nd in the Gr2 Louisiana Derby at Fair Grounds. Kafwain finished 3rd in his final career start in the Gr1 Santa Anita Derby in April. (July 23) Posse To Stand At Vinery In US US multiple stakes winner Posse “will stand at Vinery in Kentucky upon the conclusion of his racing career,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 3YO son of Silver Deputy (out of Rahy mare Raska) won the Gr2 Riva Ridge Breeders’ Cup Stakes (7 furlongs) at Belmont Park last month & is scheduled to make his Gr1 debut in the King’s Bishop Stakes at Saratoga Race Course on August 23. Vinery general manager Bates Newton commented: "This is a very talented colt. He’s blossoming in New York & we think the racing public & fans of Posse are going to have a lot of fun with him for the rest of the year." Last year Posse won his 2YO debut at Keeneland by 13.5 lengths & later the Gr3 Kentucky Breeders’ Cup Stakes (5.5 furlongs). In his 3YO debut in February, he set a track record at Fair Grounds by completing 5 furlongs in 57.35sec. He has subsequently also won the Gr3 Lafayette Stakes (7 furlongs) at Keeneland Race Course in April 6 & the Matt Winn Stakes (6 furlongs) at Churchill Downs in May. Overall he has 6 wins in 12 career starts. (July 23) US Buyers Assess 1st Crop Sires Last week’s Fasig-Tipton Kentucky July Select Yearling Sale gave US buyers “an opportunity to see the progeny of many 1st-crop sires,” noted bloodhorse.com, which surveyed opinions of the young stallions' progeny: John Stuart, Bluegrass Thoroughbred Services: "I was surprised at how well the More Than Readys have done. They're better than I expected.” Reiley McDonald, Eaton Sales: "The 1st crop sires that particularly stand out are Cat Thief & Golden Missile. The Cat Thiefs really have a great athletic body & good length. The Golden Missiles all seemed to have the great profile that so many people look for, a great hip & very athletic looking.” Hoby Kight, Florida pinhooker: "I love Cat Thief because he was a racehorse & he danced every dance, from the time he was a 2YO until he was a 4YO. Most of them (his offspring) look fast, but they also look like they can go a route of ground. I love the Chief Seattles for the same reasons: they look fast, but they look like they can go a route of ground. The Tiger Ridges look fast, plain fast. The Golden Missiles look like they are going to be horses than can go a route of ground, but I bought one that I believe is going to go fast too." Bill Farish, Lane's End: "I'm thrilled with all 3 of our 1st crop sires. The Lemon Drop Kids are a very good looking group. He (Lemon Drop Kid) gets a horse with some length that looks like the classic type, a 2-turn horse. The Dixie Unions are much more the Northern Dancer type, very well-made, good-bodied horses. Stephen Got Evens are a different type, but they have some length to them." Samantha Siegel, California buyer: "I found one I like that I had never heard of: Tiger Ridge. The yearlings I looked at were real sharp looking & they've got a lot of Storm Cat in them. They've got some style to them. He (Tiger Ridge) is a half-brother to be A.P.Indy, so obviously he was bred to be any kind of horse. Sometimes, like Danzig, a horse runs only 1 or 2 races, then all of a sudden becomes the best (sire) there is. Who knows, he might be the next Danzig. You have all these over-hyped stallions, but sometimes you have 1 like this come out of the cracks & you go: 'Whoa! Where did this 1 come from? What's the story on him?" (July 23) Fasig-Tipton 1st Crop Sire Results Cat Thief was Fasig-Tipton's top sire, with 3 offspring selling for an average price of US$336,250 reported bloodhorse.com. The sale's other leading 1st-crop sires were: Golden Missile: 8 sold for average US$133,750. Cape Canaveral: 3 sold for average US$133,333. Yes It's True: 3 sold for average of US$118,333. High Yield: 3 sold for average of US$105,667. Tiger Ridge: 4 sold for average of US$97,500. Dixie Union: 4 sold for average of US$91,750. Chief Seattle: 7 sold for average of US$90,571. Straight Man: 3 sold for average of US$88,333. More Than Ready: 4 sold for average of US$85,500. (July 23) Tattersalls Ireland Sale Offers 900 Lots The Tattersalls (Ireland) August Sale catalogue is available today, advises Irish Thoroughbred Marketing, offering over 900 lots from leading sires including Accordion, Alflora, Anshan, Arctic Lord, Bob Back, Classic Cliche, Darnay, Flemensfirth, Good Thyne, Kayhasi, Kings Ride, Lord Americo, Luso, Moscow Society, Norwich, Oscar, Over The River, Overbury, Presenting, Roselier, Saddlers Hall, Shernazar, Supreme Leader, Un Desperado & Zaffaran. The sale is over 3 days from August 13-15. (July 23) UK Doncaster St Leger Sale Catalogue And the catalogue for the UK Doncaster St Leger Yearling Sale is also published today. The 4-day sale starts on September 4 and is linked with the £200,000 (A$500,000) St Leger Yearling Stakes at Doncaster. “The company claims 44% of 2003 2YO winners sold as yearlings in Britain & Ireland were DBS graduates, with Doncaster auctioning 24% of all yearlings sold,” reported racingpost.co.uk. Sires represented in the September sale include leading 1st-season types Cape Cross, Fasliyev & Stravinsky, as well as Barathea, Cadeaux Genereux, Indian Ridge, Singspiel & Zafonic. (July 23) Godolphin Buys French Star Vespone High-class French 3YO Vespone has been bought by Godolphin, according to an announcement on the Dubai operation's website. The son of Llandaff (formerly trained at Chantilly by Nicolas Clement) is set to join Godolphin trainer Saeed bin Suroor at Moulton Paddocks at Newmarket in England. Vespone has won 4 of his 5 starts this season, including Gr1 races at his last 2 starts in the Prix Jean Prat & Juddmonte Grand Prix de Paris. (July 23) Resignations Rock Britain's National Stud Britain's National Stud “has been rocked by the resignations of 4 of its 5 directors in a protest linked to the appointment of a new chairman at the Newmarket farm, which is run by the UK Levy Board (a government subsidiary),” reported bloodhorse.com. Lanwades Stud owner Kirsten Rausing, Peter Stanley of New England Stud & bloodstock agent James Wigan followed the lead of owner-breeder Geoff Howard-Spink (who had resigned 4 weeks earlier) by resigning over the appointment of Andrew Parrish as chairman. Only Brian Chandler remains as a director. Parrish (who will replace Peter Player on August 1) has been a racehorse owner for 20 years & was formerly group chief executive of an international engineering company. But “he does not have a strong breeding background”. The disgruntled quartet issued a statement claiming that “lack of consultation has resulted in an unnecessarily bureaucratic & highly expensive management structure that is untenable for the National Stud.” They would “not accept such an arrangement in their own operations & cannot condone it as directors of the National Stud." (July 23) Kentucky Derby Champ Died In Japan Slaughterhouse Meanwhile a major outcry has erupted in the US following the revelation that Ferdinand (the 1986 Kentucky Derby winner who went on to capture the 1987 Horse-Of-The-Year title with a dramatic victory over 1987 Derby hero Alysheba in the Breeders' Cup Classic) is dead. The Blood-Horse magazine “has learned the big chestnut son of Nijinsky II died sometime in 2002, most likely in a slaughterhouse in Japan, where his career at stud was unsuccessful.” Ferdinand won 8 of 29 starts & earned US$3,777,978, retiring as then 5th leading money winner of all time. Ferdinand began his stud career in 1989 at Claiborne Farm in Kentucky, but achieved little success with his initial crops. Sold to Japan's JS Company in 1994 (at a time when Japanese farms were aggressively pursuing American & European breeding stock), Ferdinand spent 6 seasons at Arrow Stud on the island of Hokkaido from 1995-2000. Initially popular with local breeders (he was mated to 77 mares in his 1st year), Ferdinand was bred to just 10 mares in his final year at Arrow & his owners sold him to a horse dealer named Yoshikazu Watanabe. Following a major investigation (& many untruths) from that point, The Blood-Horse reporter Barbara Bayer finally revealed: “Ferdinand met his end in a slaughterhouse. Unfortunately, to those well-versed in the realities beyond the glitter & glory of the racetrack, it comes as no surprise. Ferdinand's story is the story of nearly every imported stallion in Japan at that point in time when the figures no longer weigh in his favor. In a country where racing is kept booming by the world's highest purses & astronomical betting revenues, Ferdinand's fate is not the exception. It is the rule." Dell Hancock, whose family operates historic Claiborne Farm, declared: "That's just disgusting. . . .To have this happen to a Derby winner is just terrible." (July 23) Passions Hyped For International Jockey Challenge Wednesday Odd Spot: In an attempt to generate Ryder Cup-style emotions at the track, England soccer boss Sven-Goran Eriksson has been appointed manager (truly!) of the Rest-Of-The-World team for the Shergar Cup international jockey challenge at Ascot on August 9. Ascot public relations head Nick Smith enthused to racingpost.co.uk: "To have Sven here, up against the current holders of the Shergar Cup (the Great Britain & Ireland team) is fantastic news, as he's shown himself to be an inspirational leader. This time, though, England fans won't be cheering his team on." Eriksson’s 6-man team includes Godolphin’s popular Italian rider Frankie Dettori, Germany's Andreas Suborics, Australasia’s Shane Dye, Japan's Yutake Take & Frenchman Olivier Peslier. The ‘home’ team will be led by David Platt (former international soccer skipper now controlling England’s Under-21 team), whose riders include Kieren Fallon, Michael Kinane, Johnny Murtagh (Choisir’s recent rider) & Kevin Darley. Nationalism-inspired, soccer terrace ‘bovver boys’ invading Ascot’s hallowed lawns to cheer home the local lads . . . it certainly offers the potential for good TV pictures! (July 23) Sunline To Southern Sire This Spring An announcement will be made in the next month on which stallion Sunline will be sent to this spring. Auckland trainer Trevor McKee (who owns a 50% share in the horse) told NZ Thoroughbred Marketing yesterday that Sunline would go” to a stallion in NZ or Australia this spring”. McKee confirmed a “short list of 6 or 7 stallions” has been drawn up & a decision is not far off: "We’ll do something in the next 3 or 4 weeks." McKee added it was too early to say whether the 1st progeny of Sunline would be retained by the owners or placed on the market: "That’s too far down the track." (July 22) Multiple Group Winner Rubitano Retires The Brian Mayfield-Smith trained multilple Group winner Rubitano (Rubiton-Mrs Soffel) has been retired from racing, reported racenet.com.au. The 5YO gelding “has a recurring cannon bone problem & Mayfield-Smith decided the risk to the horse was too great.” Rubitano won over $1.29 million in prize-money, with 11 wins including the Gr1 VRC Newmarket Handicap (1200m), Gr1 VRC Salinger Stakes (1200m), Gr2 MRC National Telecoms Group Sprint (1100m), Gr3 MRC Bletchingly Stakes (1100m), Listed MRC Sir John Monash Stakes (1000m) & Listed MRC W.J.Adams Stakes (1200m). (July 22) Jockey Wayne Treloar Retires Prominent Victorian jockey Wayne Treloar has announced his retirement, reported The Daily Telegraph. Treloar won 20 Gr1 races, including the 1985 Caulfield Cup on Tristarc through to the 2002 Blue Diamond Stakes on Bel Esprit. (July 22) Hussonet Filly Slaughters Top US Field What a weekend for Arrowfield’s boom sire Hussonet: Barely 24 hours after his star South American filly Wild Storm romped home in Chile’s Gr2 Gran Premio Criadores-Salvador Hess Riveros Stakes (7 furlongs) at Hipodromo Chile, his daughter Wild Spirit followed-up with a crushing 6-length victory in the US$750,000 Gr2 Delaware Handicap (10 furlongs) at Delaware Park. “Jockey Jerry Bailey was not taunting the rest of the field when he dropped his whip in the middle of the stretch,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. “At that point, Wild Spirit was doing a good enough job making a mockery of her rivals on her own.” And they weren’t just any old rivals: the top-shelf field boasted multiple US Gr1 winners Summer Colony (the only horse to beat reigning US Horse-Of-The-Year Azeri) & Take Charge Lady (who earlier in the year ran Azeri to a head in the Gr1 Apple Blossom), as well as millionairess & Gr1 Ruffian Handicap winner Mandy’s Gold. Wild Spirit (Hussonet-Wild Princess, by Wild Again) was a multiple Gr1 winner in her native Chile before transferring to trainer Bobby Frankel’s stable earlier this year; in her subsequent US debut, she won the Gr2 Shuvee Handicap by 3.5 lengths at Belmont Park in May. Jubilant trainer Frankel declared: “This is a very good filly. I think she is as good as any female horse in the country. She trains really well & the 2 races she has won (in the US) have been really awesome.” Wild Spirit now has 8 wins & 3 2nds from 12 starts, with victories in 6 of her last 7 outings (including Chile’s Gr1 Gran Criterium last October where she defeated males). Hussonet will stand his 1st season at Arrowfield Stud in the NSW Hunter Valley at $24,750 (including GST). (July 22) Ninetyfive Emperor Wins 9-In-a-Row Singapore super horse Ninetyfive Emperor (a $66,000 purchase at the 2001 Inglis Premier sale in Melbourne) has taken his winning sequence to 9-in-a-row: backing up just a week after his 5-length victory over 1600m in the final leg of Singapore’s 3YO Challenge, Ninetyfive Emperor added the Gr3 Kranji Sprint (1200m) by 3 lengths against older horses (taking his earnings to approximately A$480,000). The 3YO son of Rory’s Jester (trained by Charlie Leck) was bred in Victoria & offered for sale by Tasman Park as agent for Tony Weber, who still owns his dam Entente Cordiale. She is currrently in foal to Encosta de Lago &, according to Collingrove Stud marketing manager Jenny McAlpine, has been booked to visit Rory’s Jester again this spring. (July 22) Another Stakes Winner For Favorite Trick Meanwhile former Collingrove Stud shuttle sire Favorite Trick, who is being rested this breeding season, has welcomed another stakes winner in North America. Tricks Her scored a stakes win at Hollywood Park over 5.5 furlongs, triggering excitement in some of Australia’s leading stables with Favorite Trick’s 1st Australian crop to hit the track this coming spring. His youngsters have joined the stables of trainers including Tony McEvoy, Bede Murray, Danny O’Brien, Mick Price, Peter Morgan, Gerald Ryan, Bill Mitchell, Robbie Griffiths, John Hawkes, Alan Bailey & Richard Jolly. American 2YO Horse-Of-The-Year, Favorite Trick (a son of champion US sire Phone Trick) won all 8 of his juvenile starts, including the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Hollywood Park. Overall Favorite Trick won US$1.7 million during a career which netted 12 wins & 1 placing from 16 starts. (July 22) Ariante Adds BOBS Bonuses With his weekend win at Rosehill Gardens in Sydney, the Gai Waterhouse-trained 3YO Ariante (by Filante) recorded his 4th victory. He was originally purchased by Denise Martin’s Star Thoroughbreds at the 2001 Inglis Classic Yearling Sale in Sydney for $24,000 & syndicated into 6 shares (5 taken by 1st-time owners). Ariante quickly began returning on their investment, saluting on debut at Kembla & subsequently adding 3 metropolitan victories to claim $50,000 worth of BOBS bonuses & takes his overall prizemoney to $127,180 – a nice 400% dividend with plenty more looking likely. (July 22) Irish Pride Adds Stakes Win Meanwhile the Neville Parnham-trained Perth sprinter Irish Pride resumed from a spell to win the Listed WATC Beaufine Stakes. Irish Pride was purchased at the 2001 Inglis Spring Thoroughbred Sale for just $20,000. The Night Shift gelding now boasts an overall record of 10 wins & 16 placings from 40 starts with prizemoney of $260,186. (July 22) STC Spring Focus On $1 Million Golden Rose The Sydney Turf Club is revamping its spring carnival marketing focus to make its new $1 million Golden Rose “the backbone of plans to bring excitement” into its spring racing program. STC chief executive Michael Kenny told The Daily Telegraph: “The advantage of carnivals is attracting people to racing. The Golden Rose has given us a focus for our spring carnival & we’re starting to build up advertising concentrating on the rose aspect.” The Golden Rose (run at Rosehill Gardens on August 30) is a new 1400m race for 3YOs who were nominated for the Golden Slipper. (July 22) Cowell Dispersal Added To Magic Millions August Sale A dispersal of 8 mares owned by the late Eric Cowell has been supplemented to the Magic Millions August Thoroughbred Sale at the Gold Coast on August 3. They include half-sisters Palati (by Semipalatinsk) & Tilly's Place (by Puissance), both from Marscay stakes winner Yodelay (sister to the dam of Yippyio, Tyrolean & Iglesia). Palati (who was unraced) has been served by Monashee Mountain & dual winner Tilly’s Place is carrying a foal by Clang. Cowell’s other mares on offer include: 9-time winner & stakes placed Pluie (in foal to Intergaze); & Sir Tristram mare Arbury Hill. Another highlight at the sale will be an unraced Lion Hunter 3YO filly Behind The Blocks (a three-quarter sister to triple Group winner Lady Marion & from a Marscay Sydney winner). Broodmares in the catalogue include daughters of Rory's Jester, Danehill, Bluebird, Yeats, Semipalatinsk, Snaadee, Covetous & Marauding. (July 22) Prized Gem Confirmed For Montjeu Last year's Brisbane Cup winner Prized Gem will be sent to 6-time Gr1-winner Montjeu at stud in NZ this spring. “The royal mating has been confirmed by Prized Gem's NZ trainer Murray Baker, speaking on behalf of the high-class mare's Brisbane owner Mrs Billie Morton,” reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. Winner of more than NZ$1 million prize-money, Prized Gem's success in the Brisbane Cup was 1 of 2 Gr1 victories she posted last year; the other was in NZ’s equal richest race, the NZ$500,000 Kelt Capital Stakes (2040m) at Hastings. Prized Gem also won the Gr2 Prime Minister's Cup (2400m) in Queensland among her 9 career victories. Baker said Montjeu was the stand-out among stallions he considered for Prized Gem in NZ: "He's the best racehorse we have ever had come to stud in NZ. It wasn't a hard choice to make." Montjeu was the all-time highest rated progeny of champion sire Sadler's Wells (with a Timeform rating of 137) & remains the only horse rated on the International Classifications higher than Sadler's Wells himself. Montjeu is returning for his 3rd consecutive season at NZ’s Windsor Park Stud this spring. His 1st-crop southern hemisphere foals arrived last spring. (July 22) Vaguely Attractive Going To Black Minnaloushe Meanwhile Prized Gem's dam Vaguely Attentive is also owned by Billie Morton (who has 4 mares based in NZ). Vaguely Attentive will be served by another Windsor Park-based stallion this year, the classic-winning leading European miler Black Minnaloushe (1 of 6 champion sons sired by the mighty Storm Cat) who is returning after completing his first NZ stud season in 2002. (July 22) Critic Will Race Again Next Season Top NZ racemare Critic (by Centaine) will race again next season. Mark Chittick of Waikato Stud (which owns the Gr1-winner) told NZ Thoroughbred Marketing: "Dad (Garry Chittick) had thought of retiring her, but has decided to allow her to continue racing next season. She will be mated with our new stallion No Excuse Needed at the appropriate time during the spring." The rising 5YO will be aimed at the NZ$750,000 Kelt Capital Stakes (2040m) at Hastings on September 27. Trained by Colin Jillings & Richard Yuill at Takanini, Critic won the Gr1 Family Hotel WFA at Otaki earlier this year. (July 22) Diamond Dane Confirmed For NZ’s Berkley Stud In a major coup for NZ’s South Island breeding industry, recent Gr1 QTC Stradbroke Handicap runner-up Diamond Dane has been confirmed for stud duties this spring at Berkley Stud at Lincoln near Christchurch. Diamond Dane has a mouth-watering pedigree: by Danehill & 1 of 2 group winners from VRC Oaks & AJC Sires’ Produce Stakes winner Diamond Shower. In addition his racing career comprised 9 wins (including the Gr3 Tramway Handicap at Randwick) & a swan-song 2nd in the $1 million Stradbroke Handicap last month. The bay 5YO’s new home Berkley Stud has been established this year by former Wynyard Lodge Stud co-proprietor Edwina Morris & her partner Alan Jones. At Berkley, Diamond Dane will stand for an introductory fee of NZ$3,500 & will join former Wynyard Lodge stallions I Conquer & My Halo. (July 22) NZ Trainer Merv Ritchie Dies The funeral took place yesterday in Auckland of veteran NZ trainer Merv Ritchie, who died last week aged 81. Ritchie made his initial mark in racing as a jumps jockey, winning the 1945 NZ Great Northern Steeplechase on Dauber (who he also trained) & 1947 NZ Grand National Steeplechase on Surpeen. After serving his apprenticeship at Ellerslie & then riding there as a fully fledged jockey, Ritchie went on to become one of the Auckland Racing Club headquarters’ most successful trainers. He trained numerous winners for long-time ARC president Dr Alex McGregor Grant, including top stayers Terrific & Not Again. And for the Fletcher family he trained top fillies Blyton & Gannymede and leading stayer Rustler (who won the Wellington Cup). Among many major staying victories Ritchie trained Brisbane Cup winner Irish Whip & Moonee Valley Cup winner Lord Metric. Among his top sprinters was Yahabeebee, who won consecutive Railway Handicaps in 1957 & 1958. (July 22) Windsor Park’s Volksraad Leads NZ Sires Table The current Top 15 on the NZ General Sires Table (by prize-money), according to NZ Thoroughbred Marketing, are: 1: Volksraad NZ$1,181,575. 2: Zabeel NZ$1,079,315. 3: O’Reilly NZ$941,246. 4: Desert Sun NZ$857,688. 5: Faltaat NZ$762,887. 6: Prized NZ$712,200. 7: Stark South NZ$687,270. 8: Al Akbar NZ$595,445. 9: Maroof NZ$532,843. 10: His Royal Highness NZ$505,395. 11: Lord Ballina NZ$467,697. 12: Deputy Governor NZ$465,608. 13: Shinko King NZ$463,465. 14: Danasinga NZ$445,905. 15: Centaine NZ$445,809. (July 22) Biggest US Owner Gill Says Horses For Sale America’s leading thoroughbred owner Mike Gill has confirmed he “recently nearly sold his racing operation for US$17 million” & his “horses & farm remain on the market for the right price.” Gill told bloodhorse.com: "I'll sell, but I'm not going to create a fire sale. If it doesn't happen, then I'll continue running the operation." Gill attracted nation-wide headlines earlier this year when he threatened to quit US racing, declaring controversies surrounding his runners in Florida & Delaware “had taken the fun out of it”. Gill, who noted he is “trying to sell his operation in total”, said a potential buyer recently “signed a 30-day option” to buy his 250 horses & Pennsylvania farm for US$17 million, but then failed to execute the option; a confidentiality agreement prohibits Gill identifying that person. Gill summed up his current exit strategy: "I just can't sell them piecemeal, or I'll run the business in the ground. If you're not active, then you're in trouble." (July 22) 1st Stakes Win For US Freshman Sire Forestry Kentucky freshman sire Forestry recorded his 1st stakes winner when his 2YO colt Deputy Storm led all the way to win the Tyro Stakes (5.5 furlongs) by 4 lengths at Monmouth Park, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Forestry, who stands for US$50,000 at Taylor Made Farm in Nicholasville, has sired 7 starters & 3 winners from 75 foals in his 1st crop of racing age (including Hasselfree, who finished 2nd in the Flash Stakes on June 6 & 3rd in the Tremont Stakes on June 28, both at Belmont Park, & 3rd in the Tyro). Forestry, a 7YO son of Storm Cat, is also represented by 61 yearlings. Forestry won 7 of 11 career starts as a 3YO, including the 1999 Gr1 King’s Bishop Stakes at Saratoga Race Course & Gr2 Dwyer Stakes at Belmont Park. (July 22) 1st Stakes Win For US Freshman Sire Crafty Friend US freshman sire Crafty Friend recorded his 1st stakes winner when his 2YO filly Kissin My Friends won by 5 lengths at Anthony Downs, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Crafty Friend has sired 7 starters & 82 foals in his 1st crop of racing age; he also has 87 yearlings. The 10-year-old son of Crafty Prospector (out of winning stakes-placed Princely Native mare Companionship) stands at Hopewell Farm in Kentucky. Crafty Friend was a 5-time stakes winner (including the Gr2 Forego Handicap at Saratoga Race Course, Gr2 Tom Fool Handicap at Belmont Park & Gr2 Bel Air Handicap at Hollywood Park) who won 8 of his 35 starts & earned US$967,700. (July 22) 1st Winner For US Freshman Sire Cloud Cover Florida freshman sire Cloud Cover recorded his 1st winner when his 2YO filly American Diamond won by 3 lengths on debut at Calder Race Course, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Cloud Cover, an 8YO son of Storm Cat, stands at Double Diamond Farm near Ocala. He has sired 1 winner from 3 starters among 18 foals of racing age in his 1st crop; he is also is represented by 13 yearlings. Cloud Cover won 4 of his 16 career starts. (July 22) UK Bookmaker’s Complaint Against Betfair Upheld While Australian racing authorities continue to lobby the federal government to ban betting exchanges, English bookmaking firm William Hill has had “a complaint against a Betfair advertising campaign upheld by the UK Advertising Standards Authority,” reported racingpost.co.uk. The bookmaker took issue with Betfair's comparative advertisements, which claimed odds available through Betfair’s operation were bigger than those offered by William Hill; the complaint was upheld on the basis that the “comparison was not clear & fair”. William Hill’s head of public relations David Hood commented: "The price comparisons in Betfair’s adverts are not 'like for like' & the ASA recognised this fact as misleading to punters. The ASA recognised there is no credibility behind the odds quoted in Betfair’s adverts, when they might only be available for a couple of pounds." But Betfair’s director of communications Mark Davies dismissed the episode: “This is simply another case of William Hill clutching at straws in their efforts to compete with us. But we will obviously make the changes that the ASA has issued.” (July 22) Mubtaker Eyes Melbourne Cup Sheikh Hamdan al Maktoum, who has previously won the Melbourne Cup twice with European-bred horses At Talaq & Jeune, watched his latest staying star Mubtaker (Silver Hawk-Gazayil, by Irish River) take another step towards this year’s Melbourne event by winning the Listed Steventon Stakes (10 furlongs) at Newbury in England, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Mubtaker, who defeated Parasol (by Halling) & Imtiyaz (by Woodman), notched his 6th win & “he has yet to miss a place from 14 starts”. Trainer Marcus Tregoning has indicated 6YO Mubtaker “may be in line for a crack at Australia's Melbourne Cup in November.” (July 21) Cassidy Lands Gr1 Singapore Derby Former champion Sydney jockey Larry Cassidy rode Australian bred 4YO gelding Lead To Victory (Aghaadir-Toora Loora, by Indian Raj) to victory in the Gr1 Singapore Derby (2000m) at Kranji, reported aapracingandsports.com.au. Lead To Victory defeated Exaggerate (by Zabeel) & NZ mare Zirna (by Deputy Governor). Lead To Victory is the 1st foal of his dam. His sire Aghaadir (Private Account-Kris Kris, by Hoist The Flag) died in 2002 & sired only 52 live foals in Australia. Cassidy also won last year’s Singapore Derby on Smart Bet. (July 21) Slick Fur Wins US Gr1 Coaching Club American Oaks John Amerman's 3YO filly Spoken Fur (Notebook-Siberian Fur, by Siberian Express) blitzed her rivals to score by 3.5 lengths in the US$500,000 Gr1 Coaching Club American Oaks (12 furlongs) at Belmont Park, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Spoken Fur (ridden by Jerry Bailey for trainer Bobby Frankel) defeated Fircroft (by A.P.Indy) & Savedbythelight (by Saint Ballado) to notch her 5th consecutive victory. Slick Fur won the Gr1 Mother Goose Stakes on June 28 at her last start & has now won 2 legs of the NY Racing Association’s Triple Tiara (for 3YO fillies), putting her in line for a US$2 million bonus if she can land the Alabama Stakes at Saratoga on August 16. (July 21) Langfuhr’s Wando Wins 2nd Jewel In Canadian Triple Crown More good news for Vinery shuttler Langfuhr: his star son Wando “solidified his status as the top sophomore in Canada & moved a step closer to a place in the record books courtesy of a gate-to-wire, 4-length triumph” in yesterday’s C$500,000 Prince Of Wales Stakes (9.5 furlongs) at Fort Erie, the second leg of the Canadian Triple Crown, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Gustav Schickedanz’s homebred had already claimed the 1st jewel of the Triple Crown when he trounced stablemate Mobil & 10 others by 9 lengths in the Queen’s Plate Stakes at Woodbine on June 22. Wando has now reeled off 4 consecutive victories & won his last 3 starts by a combined 17.5 lengths. Ridden by Patrick Husbands, Wando defeated Arco’s Gold & Shoal Water. He can now “become just the 7th Canadian Triple Crown winner, & earn a C$500,000 bonus, should he triumph in the C$500,000 Breeders’ Stakes at Woodbine on August 9.” Bred in Ontario, Wando has won 7 of his 10 starts; he is 1 of 2 starters (both winners) out of Gr2-winning Woodman mare Kathie’s Colleen (who is a half-sister to Gr1 winner Beau Genius). (July 21) Thunder Gulch Records US Stakes Winner Coolmore shuttler Thunder Gulch recorded another North American stakes winner when The Thoroughbred Corporation's 5YO mare Stylish (Thunder Gulch-Miss Lenora, by Theatrical) scored her 2nd consecutive stakes victory in the Gr3 Eatontown Handicap (8.5 furlongs) at Monmouth Park, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Stylish (ridden by Heberto Castillo for trainer Todd Pletcher) defeated Something Ventured (by Cobra King) & Sweet Deimos (by Green Desert). Stylish (purchased for US$725,000 at the 1999 Keeneland September yearling sale) has now won 7 of her 22 starts. Classic winner Thunder Gulch (Gulch-Line Of Thunder, by Storm Bird) shuttles between Ashford Farm in Kentucky & Coolmore in Australia. (July 21) Kafataris Opens UK Betting Operation Sydney bookmaker Con Kafataris “will today officially open a new London betting operation,” reported The Daily Telegraph. “The multi-million dollar venture will be backed by an aggressive attitude coupled with assertive marketing & promotion &, if successful, may even lead to Kafataris setting his sights on Europe.” Kafataris commented: “I’m excited & nervous. It’s a big challenge. I’m confident & we think we will be competitive over there. The main focus will be racing . . . . I have 8 staff from Australia there & have already employed 18 new people. “ (July 18) Ryan Breaks Aust Record For Winners Further to Friday’s report: NSW jockey Greg Ryan has duly broken his Australian record of 210 wins in a season at his home track at Dubbo. Ryan went to 211 with a win on Pour Ma Mere in an Open Handicap over 1000m. (July 21) Queensland Calls For South Korean Quarantine Change South Korea has been asked to lift its strict quarantine measures & “give Queensland's thoroughbred horses a chance to participate in the country's burgeoning racing industry,” reported aapracingandsports.com.au. Queensland Primary Industries Minister Henry Palaszczuk has asked the South Korean Ministry of Agriculture & Forestry to lift its 60-day quarantine on Queensland horses, imposed after a mystery disease killed Brisbane trainer Vic Rail & 13 of his horses in 1994 & also killed a man associated with the horses in the Mackay area the following year. The disease, referred to as the Hendra virus, is believed to originate from bats & produces lung & brain diseases related to canine distemper & measles. The horse quarantine extends to Queensland alone: home to the only 2 known cases of the virus. But Palaszczuk, who met officials in South Korea last week, said the 2 incidents had been isolated & the quarantine could be lifted. He added information would be sent to the Ministry (which controls the Korean Racing Association), in a bid to remove the restriction. Palaszczuk noted: "This would obviously be a major boost to the Queensland thoroughbred racing & breeding industry, & it would also ensure the Korean racing industry can expand with greater access to the better quality Queensland-bred horses. The Korean racing industry is looking to grow & the Queensland industry can benefit substantially from that growth." (July 21) Dantana May Target HK Sprint The prestigious Hong Kong Sprint is a “long-range target for Dantana after the 3YO blitzed his rivals in the weight-for-age Sir John Monash Stakes (1000m) at Caulfield” in Melbourne, reported aapracingandsports.com.au. Dantana is by Arrowfield stallion Danzero out of Big Sky Montana. (July 21) Aquanita Reaches 250 Winners Meanwhile Aquanita Racing organisation has reached a record 250 winners for the season. As a result, Aquanita Racing will finish the Australian racing season on July 31 a clear 3rd on the national winning list, behind John Hawkes-Woodlands Stud (324 winners to date) & Tony McEvoy-Lindsay Park (259), with Gai Waterhouse 4th (236). Aquanita chief executive Peter Oliver commented: "Part of the Aquanita's success is that we operate as a team, with everyone supporting their colleagues & everyone striving for the best: the best for our owners & the best for their horses. We know our strengths & work hard to maximise these. Given that we invested in over 70 yearlings at this year’s various sales, we will be aiming even higher next season." (July 21) Calming’s 700% Return On Investment The Bill Mitchell-trained 5YO mare Calming notched her 8th win & sent her prize-money over $320,000 when she scored in the Caulfield Tabaret Handicap (1100m) at Caulfield in Melbourne on the weekend. That’s a 700% return on investment for syndicator Joe O’Neill of Prime Thoroughbreds, who paid $40,000 for Calming (already a Listed stakes winner) at the Magic Millions Yearling Sale on the Gold Coast. Commenting on Calming’s likely stud career, Mitchell noted: “Up until a few starts ago, she was heading toward stud this season. But she is back in great form & it would be silly not to keep her going. I’m sure there are some good races left in her yet. I’d like to think she could win some more black type before she is retired from the track.” Overall Calming (Zeditave-All Kisses, by Rubiton) has 8 wins & 8 2nds in 36 starts. (July 21) Sir Breakfast Boasts 3,600% Return Meanwhile another Magic Millions bargain buy is 3YO Queensland galloper Sir Breakfast, sold for just $13,000 to Leon Chan and Liam Birchley at the 2001 Superbowl Yearling Sale on the Gold Coast. By adding the Listed Qantaslink Ramornie Handicap at Grafton to his 6 previous wins (including the J.F.Meynink Stakes), Sir Breakfast has now handed connections $483,000 in prize-money from his 19 starts. (July 21) Inglis Announces New Policy On Entry Fees Auction company William Inglis is dispensing with pre-sale entry fees for its yearling sales. Instead the company has introduced a policy of deducting entry fees from yearling sale proceeds next year. Inglis NZ representative Michael Otto told thoroughbrednews.co.nz the move will be “a major benefit to vendors & an added enticement for Kiwi breeders to sell yearlings at the Australian Easter Yearling Sales in Sydney next year. William Inglis has recognised that breeders in Australia & NZ are currently under pressure from rising costs. A number of studs now have schemes which allow breeders to make their payment for service fees at a later date & we are introducing something along the same lines for sale entry fees. From now on, 1 all-inclusive entry fee will cover the cost of cataloguing, all stabling charges & any stud book inspection fees.” (July 21) Inglis Sale & Entry Dates Meanwhile Inglis has confirmed sales dates & closing time for entries for its major San Miguel yearling sales series next year: entries close in the 1st week of August for the Sydney Classic, Melbourne Premier & Australian Easter sales; the Sydney Classic Yearling Sales will be staged on January 18-19; the Melbourne Premier Yearling Sale will be held on Feburary 9-10, with a 2nd session on February 12; the Australian Easter Yearling Sale will be held on April 13-15; & the Australian Broodmare Sale takes place on April 19-20. (July 21) Inglis Winter Thoroughbred Sale Victoria’s Kulani Park paid top price of $64,000 for 3YO filly Lyric Theatre, a half-sister to 5 individual stakes performers (including Iglesia & Tyrolean) at the Inglis Winter Thoroughbred Sale in Sydney. She will be sent to stud in the forthcoming season. Lightly-raced 4YO entire Courvoisier was sold for $55,000 (to William Inglis as agent) as a stallion proposition & is also destined for a stud career in the coming season. Overall: 20 horses sold above $20,000; & a total of 240 thoroughbreds sold for gross receipts of $1,636,400 at an average $6,818. Managing director Reg Inglis commented: “Never before have I seen so many faces at a mixed thoroughbred sale at Newmarket. The competition was strong in all sections of the catalogue, which was reflected in the outstanding clearance rate of 92%.” (July 21) 1st Stakes Win For Cambridge Shuttler Stravinsky Coolmore’s Cambridge Stud shuttle sire Stravinsky recorded his 1st stakes winner when Team Havana's 2YO colt Venables (Stravinsky-Hope For A Breeze, by Briartic) won the Listed Rose Bowl Stakes (6 furlongs) at Newbury in England, reported racenet.com.au. Venables defeated America America (by Mister Baileys) & Flip Flop And Fly (by Woodborough). His dam Hope For A Breeze was Canada's 1992 Champion 3YO Filly. Leading US 1st Season Sire & Gr1 winner Stravinsky (Nureyev-Fire The Groom, by Blushing Groom) shuttles between Ashford Farm in Kentucky & Cambridge Stud in NZ; he has sired 13 winners from his initial 24 runners. (July 21) New NZTR Chairman Moves For Change Newly elected NZ Thoroughbred Racing chairman Guy Sargent will convene a meeting of industry stakeholders on August 1 in his 1st move “to bring about the changes he feels the industry is crying out for”. He told NZ Thoroughbred Marketing: “The reason I was elected was that people wanted change. I now say let’s see something happen, whether it be small or large, to give stakeholders some incentive. It might be that broodmare owners want a push to breed that mare, a licence-holder might be thinking about opting out or a prospective apprentice needs a good reason to sign up - if we can just let them know that we are headed in the right direction.” Sargent envisages a gathering of no more than 20 stakeholders at his proposed meeting to involve all sectors, including such people as a punters’ representative or bloodstock agent. He noted: “I want to see everybody represented there, including those that don’t necessarily get to sit around the table.” (July 21) NZ Bloodstock’s Spring Sale Catalogue Julia Naismith at NZ Bloodstock advises the catalogue for the 2003 Spring Bloodstock Sale (at Karaka on Sunday August 17) “is now available for viewing at www.nzb.co.nz”. The sale features an unreserved dispersal of 27 quality broodmares on behalf of an Australian syndicate, to be offered through Westbury Stud as agent. The dispersal boasts mares by top class sires Nureyev, Shirley Heights, Chief’s Crown, Affirmed, Fairy King, Last Tycoon, Alzao, Miswaki, Dayjur, Canny Lad, Nassipour & Gold Brose. And the list of covering sires includes Align, Black Minnaloushe, Cape Cross, Centaine, Chief Bearhart, Daggers Drawn, Elnadim, Faltaat, Generous, O’Reilly, Pentire, Pins, Postponed, Shinko King, Stravinsky, Volksraad & Zabeel. As well as 117 Broodmares, the sale also features well-bred yearlings, 2YOs, untried & tried horses. Catalogues will be mailed out on Wednesday. (July 21) New French Sale Company Targets UK Haras d'Etreham & Haras des Capucines, 2 of the leading commercial breeders in France, have announced a new joint venture European Sales Management Company “combining their resources to create a large sales agency with a view toward UK auctions,” reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Each will continue to operate independently. Haras d'Etreham (owned by Marc de Chambure) & Haras des Capucines (owned by Eric Puerari & Michel Zerolo) are both located in Normandy. Zerolo noted: “The large commercial consignor is not an ingrained notion in European culture, as it is in American culture. People in Europe operate on a smaller scale. Market economy was also a factor behind the concept. By bringing 2 large commercial consignors in France together & pooling our resources & customers, we are targetting that niche in Europe. We hope to attract customers who are currently operating on their own at this point & taking their own draft to the sales. We hope that if successful, we will be able to convince potential customers of the advantage, both in terms of logistics & exposure, of using ESMC to consign their horses rather than continuing with their 1 or 2-horse consignments.” (July 21) National Currency Wins South African Gr1 Mercury Sprint Star 3YO sprinter National Currency raced away to a 5-length victory in South Africa’s Gr1 Mercury Sprint (1200m). HK-based jockey Weichong Marwing (back in South Africa for a few weeks during HK's summer recess) rode National Currency for trainer Michael Azzie & won easily from outsiders Honour The Guest & Black Skimmer. National Currency races for an ownership syndicate which includes his breeder Graham Beck, who operates in South Africa under the Highlands banner & also owns Gainesway in Kentucky in the US. "South African racegoers will have seen the last of National Currency,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com, “as he now travels to Dubai in the string of trainer Mike de Kock.” National Currency is out of the winning Spend A Buck mare Enchanted Dollar, a half-sister to multiple South African champion Harry's Charm. (July 21) Arrowfield’s Hussonet Lands Another Stakes Win Star Arrowfield stallion Hussonet’s 3YO filly Wild Storm has followed her runner-up effort in Chile’s Gr1 Tanteo de Potrancas Stakes on June 23 with “a brilliant victory” in the Gr2 Gran Premio Criadores-Salvador Hess Riveros Stakes (7 furlongs) at Hipodromo Chile, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Wild Storm (ridden by Richard Castillo & trained by Patricio Baeza) notched her 3rd victory in 5 starts (she also won the Gr3 Juan Cavieres Mella as a 2YO) for owner Stud Jockey. Bred by Haras De Pirque, Wild Storm is out of stakes-winning Worldwatch mare Wildwind, a half-sister to Gr3 winner L'Eclipse. (July 21) Son Of Riyadian Tops Peruvian Sale Ramsay, son of dual English group winner Riyadian, topped the Asociacion de Criadores de Caballos de Carrera del Peru’s sale of selected 2YOs at Hipodromo Monterrico in Lima, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Hugo Salem’s Stud Harem purchased Ramsay for US$17,000. Bred by Haras Rio Santa, Ramsay is out of winning Book The Band mare Baragua. Riyadian, an 11-year-old son of Polish Precedent, has stood at Jorge Nicolini’s Haras Rio Santa since 1999 & has 1 crop of racing age. (July 21) Aly’s Alley To Stand In Uruguay Aly’s Alley, winner of the 1998 Gr3 Kentucky Cup Juvenile Stakes & runner up in the 1998 Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, “has been retired & will begin his stallion career in Uruguay’ reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 7YO son of Alwuhush will stand at a farm owned by Gerardo Arcos. Bred in Kentucky by Eaglestone Farm, Aly’s Alley posted 6 victories from 36 career starts & earned US$902,210. (July 21) Luhuk Continues Shuttle To Argentina Central Kentucky stallion Luhuk will shuttle to Argentina to stand his 8th consecutive Southern Hemisphere season at Hernan Ceriani Cernadas’s Haras La Quebrada, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. A 12-year-old Kentucky-bred son of Forty Niner who stands at Gainesway in Lexington, Luhuk has sired 8 graded/group winners from 109 starters in 4 crops of racing age, including Argentine champion Guernika Gr3 winner Avanzado. A winner of 6 of 18 career starts (including the 1994 ROA Foundation Stakes at Goodwood & Arlington International Racecourse Stakes at Newbury), Luhuk was produced by unraced Dr Fager mare Royal Stance & is a half-brother to Gr3 winners Majuscule & Royal Cielo. (July 21) Basil Hayden Joins Roster At Haras Lindor Meanwhile Kentucky-bred Basil Hayden, an 8YO son of Seeking The Gold, will stand his 1st season at Haras Lindor in Argentina beginning in August, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Basil Hayden, currently in Argentine quarantine, won 2 races at Gulfstream Park. Bred by Live Oak Stud, he is out of stakes-winning Sauce Boat mare Grand Creation, a half-sister to Gr1 winner Ruthie’s Native & Gr3-placed stakes winner Supporting Cast. (July 21) 1st Winner For US Sire Mr Listo Texas-based sire Mr Listo recorded his 1st winner when Puckerupbuttercup scored by 3.5 lengths over 6 furlongs at Canterbury Park, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Mr Listo, a 12-year-old son of Stalwart who stands at Windy Meadows Farm in Texas, has 2 starters from 7 foals of racing age in 2 crops. Mr Listo won 3 races & placed 12 times in 29 career starts. (July 21) 1st Winner For US Sire Captain Bash Stakes winning-sire Captain Bash recorded his 1st winner when Cbknightspretense won by 6 lengths on debut over 4.5 furlongs at Wyoming Downs, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Captain Bash, a 12-year-old son of Knights Choice, stands at Gould Farming & Ranching in Idaho. Captain Bash won 6 of his 17 starts on the track & is 1 of 4 starters (all winners) out of stakes winner Miss High Brow. (July 21) 1st Winner For US Sire Sheikh Adel Georgia-based sire Sheikh Adel recorded his 1st winner when Harveyslittlething won by 4.5 lengths over 7 furlongs at Charles Town, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Unraced Sheikh Adel, a 9YO son of Sheikh Albadou, has sired 1 starter from 6 foals of racing age; he also has 3 yearlings. Sheikh Adel is out of Gr2 stakes-placed winner Sancta Rose (by Karabas) & is a half-brother to Gr1 winner Mashkour. (July 21) 1st Winner For UK Sire My Best Valentine UK sire My Best Valentine (the 1998 Gr1 Prix de l’Abbaye hero) recorded his 1st winner when 3YO gelding Valliant (out of Bella Helena, by Balidar) won a 5-furlong dash in Athens in Greece, reported racingpost.co.uk. Valliant is among 20 foals from My Best Valentine’s 1st crop. My Best Valentine (Try My Best-Pas de Calais, by Pas de Seul) won 9 races from 5-7.5 furlongs & retired with the French Gr1 success in his final race. However owner Irene Clifford confirmed lack of mares at stud “looks likely to prompt a move to Ireland for the 13-year-old stallion.” My Best Valentine stood at Benham Stud in Berkshire last season. (July 21) Australia Now Second Biggest Foal Nursery In World More than 70 international thoroughbred stallions conservatively valued at US$500 million will arrive in Australia from Ireland, England, France, Germany, Japan and North America from July 26 in an unprecedented southern migration. “The international thoroughbred industry now recognizes that nowhere else in the world is there such a phenomenal movement of stallions to one country each year, and that Australia is the second biggest thoroughbred breeding industry after North America, accounting for 17 per cent of the world’s annual foal crop,” said Aushorse spokeswoman Bronwyn Farr. “Logistically, it is quite some feat to co-ordinate the movement of stallions from so many sources to stand at studs throughout Australia, keeping in mind varying quarantine regulations,” she observed. “Australia is home to a wider range of stallions than anywhere else in the world, and this attracts an increasing number of international purchasers to our yearling sales where they recognize they can acquire world-class horses at very competitive prices,” she said. “Obviously, Royal Ascot winner and July Cup placegetter Choisir, who cost $55,000 and is by shuttle stallion Danehill Dancer, has been a fantastic flagship for our industry.” Dual hemisphere, or “shuttle” stallions complete northern hemisphere stud duties from mid-February to late June before entering quarantine. Their flights are usually around 26 hours and they enter quarantine for a further period in Australia before serving barns at Australian studs open their doors for the season, from September 1 to Christmas Day. (July 18) High Tech Address At Randwick Thoroughbred industry participants will have the chance to hear about state-of-the-art microchipping – set to replace the traditional veterinary identification certificate and the passport – this Sunday at Randwick when Keeper of the Australian Stud Book, John Digby, makes an address at the Stud and Stallion Day. “Microchip identification will replace the traditional veterinary identification certificate and the passport. The role of brands has been enhanced and from 1 July 2003 all brands used on the left shoulder of thoroughbreds must be registered with the Australian Stud Book. Microchips and brands will continue to be backed up by DNA profiles. This informal seminar provides an opportunity to discuss the new procedures with microchipping and allows individuals valuable question time,” commented Digby. (July 18) Randwick Stallion Noms Announced Meanwhile, the first annual Stud and Stallion Day at Randwick this Sunday also provides an opportunity to talk with the leading stud masters and to obtain information about the high calibre stallions that will be standing in Australia this spring. New participants to racing and breeding will have all their questions about breeding and racing answered by the experts. Those who are keen to purchase a share in a racehorse on the day will be able to talk to leading syndicators about owning your own racehorse. And the stallion nominations to be auctioned have been announced too. They are: Johannesburg, Street Cry, Orientate, Octagonal, Twining and Desert Sun. The nom auction is on at 4.00pm. (July 18) Greg Ryan Equals Record NSW jockey Greg Ryan has reached 210 winners for the season and is now only one away from breaking his own national record set last season. Ryan was successful at Grafton yesterday on the Bruce Swan-trained Fly Dubai in the Retravision Class 1 (1,000m) in front of Delavega (Allan Robinson) and Kitchener Kid (Robert Thompson). The champion country hoop has a full book of rides today at Dubbo: Race 1 Bonzer Babe Race 2 Interdon Race 3 Shakla Zulu Race 4 Jackosh Race 5 Pour Ma Mer Race 6 Saddle King Race 7 Mr Frisco Race 8 Straten (July 18) Galea Court Case Could Change Everything The outcome of an upcoming court case could open a Pandora’s Box in racing, that could have far reaching affects reports racenet.com.au. Three years ago jockey Mark Galea fell from a John Johnson-trained horse at a Trangie race meeting when the saddle allegedly slipped. Unfortunately Galea suffered head injuries in the fall and has not ridden since. Last November, three years to the fall, his legal representation started filing an action against the trainer for $750,000 and also issued summonses against the owner and the Thoroughbred Racing Board (TRB). “It says in my summons that I put faulty gear on the horse but the gear was his!” said Johnson. “I can’t believe this is happening, it’s already cost me $6,000 in legal fees and I haven’t even been near a court.” Galea is suing the TRB over a ‘faulty’ skull cap. Media Manager for the TRB, Mark Brassel said: “Michael Thompson [TRB Insurance Manager] who deals with these matters confirmed that the matter would be heard in August. The matter of the skull cap is regarding the fact that safety levels weren’t brought in until a later date, which was after this particular incident.” The TRB advised that the matter was set down for mention in court in August and it is expected that a date would then be set for a hearing that would probably last for two weeks. (July 18) Mr Greeley Filly Fetches $500,000 At Fasig-Tipton Former Australian shuttler Mr Greeley was responsible for the yearling that topped the final session at Fasig-Tipton Kentucky today. His chestnut daughter was one of the last horses through the ring yet ended up bringing the session's top price of US$500,000. The filly, consigned by Mulholland Springs, was purchased by Jaime Carrion, with Kentucky horseman Robert E. Courtney signing the ticket. "When I saw her I knew I was going to buy her," Carrion said. "She really fills your eye." Produced from the stakes-winning Topsider mare Good for Her, the Mr. Greeley filly will be trained by Eddie Plesa. Mr Greeley (by Gone West) left Australia after producing just 26 live foals. Among them though was a Gr1 winner – Miss Kournakova - and many astute studmasters here would like to have him on their roster. (July 18) Fasig Tipton Shows Slight Declines While the Mr. Greeley filly highlighted a session in which 151 yearlings sold for US$14,124,000 and an average price of $93,536, there were 56 horses which did not attain their reserves, and the session median price was $75,000. Overall, for the two-day sale, FTK reported 303 yearlings grossed $28,202,000, for an average price of $93,076 and $67,000 median. There were 122 RNAs for the sale. In 2002, 325 yearlings were sold for a gross of $31,790,000, an average of $97,815 and a median of $70,000. There were 211 horses which did not meet their reserves last year. (July 18) Aussie Trainer After Arlington’s Richest Race Stonecrest Farm's Perfect Drift, winner of the GrI Stephen Foster Handicap at Churchill Downs in his last start, and Susan & John Moore's Iron Deputy, who captured the Gr2 Brooklyn Handicap at Belmont Park in his last start, head a compact but classy of field of five entered for Saturday's Gr2 Washington Park Handicap at Arlington Park, reports the bloodhorse.com. The US$400,000 Washington Park Handicap, the richest main track race of the season at Arlington, is a 1 3/16-mile test that has been won over the years by such stalwarts as Armed, Swaps, Round Table, Dr. Fager and Spectacular Bid. Arlington Park oddsmaker Mike Battaglia has installed Perfect Drift as the race's 6-5 favorite off his head decision in the June 14 Stephen Foster over Mineshaft, who went on to win the Gr2 Suburban Handicap at Belmont Park in his next start. Perfect Drift is trained by Australian Murray Johnson whose brother Tim owns Victoria’s Ealing Park Stud. (July 18) Danehill Heavyweights Nominated For Slipper Five ‘major’ Danehill yearlings that were purchased by agents and owners have been nominated for next year’s Gr1 STC Golden Slipper Stakes. According to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald, the five, which have now all found ‘homes’, are (trainers in brackets): $1 million Savana City filly (Brian Mayfield-Smith) $725,000 Lake Alexandrina filly (Gai Waterhouse) $700,000 Tudor Flight filly (Tony McEvoy) $700,000 Nuwirah filly (Tony McEvoy) $640,000 Marigot Bay colt (Gai Waterhouse) (July 18) Sunline’s Half-Sister Exported To China A report by aapracingandsports.com.au highlights the export of a significant band of 20 broodmares to China that took place earlier this month. Heading the bluebloods is Sunny Song, the Simonstad half-sister to Sunline whose yearling (by Desert Sun) sold at Inglis Easter this year for $130,000. Of equal note are Gr1 winning mare Only a Lady, and Snippets’ half-sister Date A Champion. Also included were the dams of stakeswinners Little Miss Marnie, Sparks and Donna Natalia, and a Royal Academy grand-daughter of Kiwi blue hen Eight Carat. The matriarchs are all owned by Domeland’s Y P Cheng who has made an enormous investment both here and in his Chinese operation, and most are in foal to local Gr1 winner Northern Drake (now also in China). (July 18) Rangal Park All Smiles Following the devastating start Fasliyev has made with his first European crop, sire-sons of Nureyev are very much in vogue. These include Rangal Park’s Ne Coupez Pas, standing his second season. Not a shuttle stallion – he permanently calls Australia home – Ne Coupez Pas is, like Fasliyev, by Nureyev from a Mr. Prospector mare. A stakes placed 5 time winner from 1200m to 2000m, he is a half-brother to Champion 2YO Filly Pas De Response and leading French sire Green Tune, as well as 2 other stakes winners in Ecoute and Didyme. His grandam is a three quarter-sister to Champion 2YO and globally influential sire Storm Bird (sire of Storm Cat). (July 18) Martin’s Strangles Have Disappeared The NSW TRB Veterinarian Dr Mark Caves has recommended to the Stewards that the quarantine placed on the south-east barn of licensed trainer Tim Martin’ s Rosehill Gardens stables, following an outbreak of strangles, be lifted. Martin can now move the two infected horses from the stables and the remaining unaffected gallopers can resume their normal training routine. (July 18) Baby Star Up For Grabs A winter star is emerging in Victoria in the shape of speedy 3-year-old Zephyr Beat (Zephyr’s Tornado-Backbeat). He won four straight before humping topweight and sitting six wide throughout for a 3rd in the Winter C’Ship over 1604m at Flemington during the week. His owner Chris Nevill bred the horse and is obviously excited about his future. “We are very proud of his record so far and he will come home now for a 3 month spell ready to return in January bigger and stronger than ever.” The next foal out of his dam Backbeat is a filly by former Champion galloper Durbridge, and is currently being broken in. She is big, and likely to need a little time. “She is for sale if anyone is interested, however,” claimed Nevill. (July 18) Pentire’s Stakes Record Improves Again The highly credentialed NZ-based stallion Pentire is firing yet again. The barnstorming run for 2nd by Waitoki Dream in the listed Northern Breeders Stakes for 2-year-olds recently took Pentire's record to 8 stakes performer this season. Watch for him in the 3-year-old classics this coming season as the Pentire stock seem to grow a leg as they get older. Pentire stands at John Thompson’s Rich Hill Stud in New Zealand and limited bookings are still available at only NZ$8,500 plus GST. (July 18) Cox Plate On Japanese Agenda Leading trainer Kazuo Fujisawa has foreshadowed the first Japanese attack on the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival by indicating that his class galloper Magnaten (USA) may be aimed at the $3,020,000 Gr1 Carlton Draught Cox Plate. Fujisawa has told the Japanese press that Australia's premier weight-for-age event is being considered as an option for his 7-year-old gelding which finished 4th in last year's Japan Cup. Magnaten is a multiple Gr2 winner and 2000 metres is considered his ideal distance. Because he is gelded, Magnaten is ineligible to run in some of Japan's major races so Fujisawa has looked "down under" for a suitable race. Entries for the Cox Plate close on Friday 1 August. (July 18) Potential New UK Millionaire Every Week England’s Tote will soon launch a new bet type that will allow small bettors to become potential millionaires. A report by racingpost.co.uk says development is almost complete on a bet that will offer a guaranteed £1 million prize every Saturday. It could start as early as next year. It is believed the format of the bet is not yet finalised, but could be similar to Australia’s Superfecta which requires the selection of the first six finishers in the correct order in a selected race. (July 18) Godolphin Needs Quick Single Friday Odd-Spot: According to a racingpost.co.uk report global powerhouse Godolphin has been stuck on 99 Gr1 wins for some two months now, and is need of a quick single. Frankie Dettori – who only last weekend won another Gr1 aboard Vintage Tipple in the Irish Oaks – is hoping to realise a dream by helping Godolphin clinch their 100th Gr1 winner in the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes on Saturday week. The Italian-born English-based hoop is due to ride either Sulamani or Grandera at Royal Ascot. Dettori has won the race three times in the past aboard Lammtarra (1995), Swain (1998) and Daylami (1999). Sounds like a job for Ricky Ponting. (July 18) Emperor Shoots For Nine Straight Tomorrow’s S$150,000 Singapore Group 3 Kranji Sprint – featuring 10 leading sprinters – will be highlighted by Ninetyfive Emperor’s attempt to win his ninth race straight. The Charles Leck-trained current pin-up star of Singapore racing is by Collingrove Stud’s leading stallion Rory’s Jester, and recently captured the 1,600m final leg of the Singapore Three-Year-Old Challenge series. (July 17) And Tigerhill Makes Three High profile southern highlands studfarm Inverness Stud has secured a third stallion for the 2003 season. According to AAP Racing and Sports, Nuclear Freeze (Danehill’s full-brother) and debutant Universal Prince will be joined by unraced Australian-bred Danehill entire Tigerhill. A son of the Shirley Heights mare Moonstruck, Tigerhill – passed in for $375,000 at Inglis’ 2001 Easter Yearling Sale – remained unraced due to an injury suffered while spelling from training. He has been nominated for BOBS and will stand at $2,200 including GST. (July 17) Arrowfield Stallions Arrive In Queensland Arrowfield-owned stallions Count Albrecht and Sunday Knight have arrived at Plaintree Farms on the Darling Downs in Queensland for the 2003 breeding season. Count Albrecht is a grandson of Mr Prospector and a half-brother to the champion sire Zabeel. Sunday Knight is one of just two locally bred sons of internationally significant stallion Sunday Silence at stud in Australia (Any Given Sunday at Mountmellick Stud in Victoria is the other). He is out of former star sprinter Wrap Around. Both stallions have reportedly quickly settled in to their new home, and will be paraded at the Queensland Thoroughbred Stallion Expo at Magic Millions on Sunday 20 July. (July 17) STC Appoints New Track Manager As of Monday 14 July Lindsay Murphy has assumed the responsibilities of recently retired Sydney Turf Club Track Manager Lindsay Davies. Murphy will be looking after both Canterbury Park and Rosehill Gardens racecourses in the position of General Manager Racecourses, and will be supported by his Track Managers (Paul Quick – Rosehill Gardens, and Chris Toogood – Canterbury Park). Murphy initially joined the STC 26 years ago as a junior clerk. In 1978, he was promoted to Racecourse Managers Assistant, and subsequently progressed to Racecourse Manager, Canterbury Park, where he has also resided for the past 17 years with his family. (July 17) Victoria Claims More Bang For Buck According to Thoroughbred Breeders Victoria, the 2002/03 racing season has been a vintage year for Victorian breeders who have claimed almost 20% of the Gr1 races conducted in Australia. Of the 64 Gr1 races, Victorian breeders produced 13 winners. Seven of those winners: Rubitano (Rubiton), Spinning Hill (Dolphin Street), Winestock (El Moxie), Delago Brom (Encosta De Lago), Bush Padre (Redding) and Danehill Dancer duo, Choisir and Private Steer, were by Victorian-based sires at an average service fee of $7,300. This is compared to the average New Zealand fee of $26,200 (also seven Australian Gr1 winners). “New South Wales Gr1 winners for the year were bred at an average fee of $29,800,” declared the TBV report. (July 17) Half Hennessy Set To Return Trainer Bede Murray is looking at a possible resumption for Inverness Stud-bred Gr1 winner Half Hennessy at the end of August reports racenet.co.au. "Half Hennessey has been back just under three weeks now," said Murray. "We are thinking of a start in the Warwick Stakes (August 23) as his first run, but we'll just see how he goes." Another of Murray's top spring hopes, Victory Vein, had to go to the paddock after an incident at Kembla Grange track where she damaged her tendon. There's no sign she is on her way back yet though. (July 17) Rosehill To Race Cup Day For two years now they’ve been saying it might happen and yesterday it was rubber stamped. The STC will conduct a picnic race day this year on Melbourne Cup day at Rosehill Gardens. STC Sales & Marketing General Manager David Craig confirmed, “The STC recorded a growing demand from punters, social clubs, small offices and individuals, looking for the “true racing experience” in celebrating Melbourne Cup Day, so this year Rosehill Gardens Racecourse will be open to the public on the day for the first time while holding actual races.” There will be five races on the Rosehill Gardens Program covered by bookmaker services. Tote facilities and bookmakers will be available for all away meetings including the exciting racing action at Flemington and featuring the race that stops a nation, the Melbourne Cup. (July 17) Vindication To Retire At Year’s End Regardless of the outcome of Vindication’s 3-year-old campaign over the next few months, the champion son of Seattle Slew will retire at the end of the year and will enter stud in 2004 at John Sikura’s Hill ‘n’ Dale Farm near Lexington, reports thoroughbredtimes.com. "He will be retired after the Breeders’ Cup; whether he’s a participant or not," Sikura said. "We’re hopeful he’ll make it back; the Padua [Stables] team has done a magnificent job of availing the horse of every chance to succeed. The only thing that’s a question mark is the time element. It’s unclear whether there’s enough time for him to make it back for the Breeders’ Cup Classic (Gr1)." Vindication, bred on a similar cross to Glen Avon Lodge’s Admiralty, won the Breeders’ Cup juvenile last year, a win that clinched him top US juvenile honours. He’s by Seattle Slew from Strawberry Reason who was by Strawberry Road. (July 17) Beasley Wins On Comeback Ride A week after Shane Dye made a winning return to Warwick Farm, his Hong Kong colleague Danny Beasley added international flavour to Wednesday's meeting with victory aboard promising filly Cousine. Beasley will be riding in Sydney for the next few weeks, reports aapracingandsports.com.au, before returning to Hong Kong in late August for the start of the season on August 31. "I had a holiday at the snow and then I was sitting around at home not doing much," Beasley said. After a narrow win at Wyong on June 24 with Chris Munce aboard, Cousine started favourite in the Thrifty Hcp (1300m) yesterday and won accordingly. Up on the pace all the way, the Anabaa filly let down in the straight to race away from Kidnapper by three lengths with War Queen running on for an eye-catching third another neck away. (July 17) Fusaichi Pegasus Filly Fetches US$800,000 at Fasig-Tipton A daughter of Fusaichi Pegasus – who is a half sister to Grade 1 winners Chaposa Springs and You and I – sold for US$800,000 to top the opening session of the Fasig-Tipton Kentucky July selected yearling sale on Wednesday at the Newtown Paddocks in Lexington. Sunland Park owner Stanley Fulton purchased the bay filly, who is from the vaunted first crop of 2000 Kentucky Derby (Gr1) winner Fusaichi Pegasus out of the Ups mare La Chaposa (Per). Bloodstock agent Tim McMurry signed the ticket in the name of Fleetwood/New Wave, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Consigned by Paramount Stables, as agent, the filly had previously been listed as sold to William Schettine for US$410,000 at the 2002 Keeneland November breeding stock sale. Chaposa Springs won 14 of 23 career starts, including the 1995 Test Stakes (Gr1) and '96 Ballerina Handicap (Gr1) at Saratoga Race Course, for US$762,115 in earnings. Her full brother by Kris S., You and I, posted four graded stakes victories during his career, including a track-record setting performance in the seven-furlong Riva Ridge Stakes (Gr3) in 1:20.33. La Chaposa, a champion sprinter and Gr1 winner in her native country, is the dam of six other winners. (July 17) Phar Lap's Saddle Up For Sale A shoe worn by Seabiscuit during his famous 1938 match race win over War Admiral at Pimlico Race Course, and potentially the auction's most coveted item - a kangaroo leather saddle used on both Seabiscuit and legendary Australian racehorse Phar Lap - will be auctioned in Beverly Hills on Sunday, reports thoroughbredtimes.com. Along with the saddle are more than 350 other pieces of Thoroughbred memorabilia from the collection of Chip and Bonnie Sturniolo, who displayed many of the items at The Derby, a restaurant they own in suburban Los Angeles. The auction will also include many racing items once owned by Seabiscuit's rider George Woolf, who purchased The Derby in 1938, according to the Associated Press. Following Woolf's death in a racing accident in 1946, his widow Genevieve-Bonnie Sturniolo's aunt ran The Derby for five years before turning the restaurant, along with much of Woolf's memorabilia, over to Chip Sturniolo's parents. (July 17) Arrests Made At Saratoga Seventeen illegal immigrants working at the Saratoga Race Course were arrested by immigration officials and police in a raid early Tuesday reports the bloodhorse.com. Eleven were from Mexico, four from Chile and two from Guatemala. They were arrested without incident in two bunkhouses on the race course's backstretch. Two workers had outstanding orders for deportation and will be sent out of the country, according to spokeswoman Amy Otten of the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Several had criminal histories and will have hearings before an immigration judge. Others had no criminal records and agreed to return to their home countries, Otten said. The New York Racing Association, which runs the track, said in a statement that none of those apprehended were NYRA employees. All those arrested had been licensed by the State Racing and Wagering Board to work at racetracks, NYRA said. (July 17) First Winner For Charismatic Former Champion galloper and Horse of the Year Charismatic has recorded his first winner as a stallion. Storm Seiko, won on July 12 in Japan at his second start. Bred in Kentucky by Peter Van Andel, Storm Seiko scored at five furlongs in 1:01.30 against 11 rivals. Produced from the Shadeed mare Micheline, Storm Seiko was bought for US$70,000 by J.S. Company at the 2002 Keeneland September yearling sale. Charismatic (Summer Squall – Bali Babe, by Drone) stands at the Japan Bloodhorse Breeders Association Stallion Station. He began his career at William S. Farish's Lane's End Farm near Versailles, Ky. (July 17) Punters Breathe Easier Thursday Odd-Spot: Even jockeys would be used to being pulled up at the occasional RBT, however a dozen English hoops were surprised on Tuesday when the order to “Blow here, Sir” was issued at Brighton Racecourse before the first. All tests were negative. According to racingpost.co.uk, jockeys in England will be subjected to up to 3,000 tests a year for alcohol, cocaine and ecstasy under a new Jockey Club testing policy. There is no truth to the rumour that jockeys’ change rooms in the old dart will soon have placards declaring: ‘Drink, ride. Bloody Idiot.’ (July 17) European Shuttlers Invade Australia The European based sires coming to Australia this year are stronger than ever before, despite the fact Danehill is not among them. Here’s a list of most of them, 33 in total, with where they stand in Europe, their fee there, where they will be in Australia and their fee (excluding GST) here: Agnes World/Darley-Dalham Hall, £15,000/Widden, A$22,700 Anabaa/Haras du Quesnay, FF45,000/Widden, A$36,300 Arazi/Sohrenhof, NA/Independent SS. A$10,000 Danehill Dancer/Coolmore-Kilsheelan, Ire30,000/Coolmore, A$25,000 Danetime/Tally-Ho, Ire6,500/Bellbridge Park, A$8,000 Desert Prince/Irish National, Ire30,000/Woodlands, A$25,000 Distant Music/Morristown, Ire9,500/Yallambee, A$15,000 Fantastic Light/Darley-Dalham Hall, £30,000/Darley, A$35,000 Fasliyev/Coolmore, Ire20,000/Coolmore, A$20,000 Galileo/Coolmore, Ire60.00/Coolmore, A$45,000 Golden Snake/English National, £4,000/Lynden Park, A$13,500 Grand Lodge/Coolmore, Ire64,000/Woodlands, A$35,000 Indian Danehill/Irish National, Ire8,000/Lindsay Park, A$9,000 Ishiguru/Tweenhills, £3,500/Baerami Thoroughbreds, A$6,500 Johan Cruyff/Gestut Isarland, M5,000/Eliza Park, A$7,500 King Charlemagne/Coolmore, Ire8,000/Blue Gum, A$10,000 King's Best/Darley-Kildangan, Ire35,000/Darley, A$35,000 Lake Coniston/Collin, £2,750/Wyndholm Park, A$6,350 Lujain/Darley-Dalham Hall, £5,000/Darley, A$7,500 Mull of Kintyre/Coolmore, Ire6,000/Coolmore, A$6,000 Noverre/Darley-Kildangan, Ire15,000/Darley, A$25,000 Orpen/Coolmore-Kilsheelan, eu6,000/Coolmore, A$7,000 Peintre Celebre/Coolmore, eu25,000/Coolmore, A$22,500 Primo Valentino/Bearstone, £3,500/High Lane, TBA Rock of Gibraltar/Coolmore, Ire80,000/Coolmore, A$120,000 Second Empire/Coolmore, Ire5,000/Heytesbury, A$10,000 Shinko Forest/Rathbarry, Ire7,500/Glenlogan Park, A$12,000 Spinning World/Coolmore, Ire35,000/Coolmore, A$15,000 Testa Rossa/du Petit Tellier, FF10,000/Yallambee, A$20,000 Tobougg/Darley-Dalham Hall, £5,000/Darley, A$10,000 Val Royal/Oak Lodge, Ire8,500/Eliza Park, A$16,000 Xaar/Darley-Kildangan, Ire15,000/Darley, A$15,000 Zaha/Collin Stud, £3,500/Clear Mountain, A$6,000 (July 16) Greg Ryan Has Record In Sight Champion NSW country based jockey Greg Ryan is only two wins away from breaking his own record of 210 wins reports racenet.com.au, but it all nearly came to end after the running of the first at Mudgee on Monday. Ryan was riding Mitcheltown in the Stubby & Ali Maiden Plate (1100m), when his horse fell. He was terribly lucky to get out of it unscathed. He was later cleared of injury and allowed to continue riding. And, he notched win number 208 on Casseedee in the Wayne O’Shea Memorial Maiden Handicap (1400m). Ryan will be looking at the 210 figure today at the big Grafton Carnival, when among others he'll be riding Sue Grills' Caissa in the $125,000 Ramornie Handicap. Ryan's Wednesday rides are: Race 1 Devious Pegasus Race 2 Vintage Latour Race 4 Say Boo Race 5 Nothin' Less Race 6 Air Of Grace Race 7 Caissa Race 8 Extra Dollars (July 16) NSW Racing On Upsurge The long held belief Victorian racing is better than all the other states, especially arch rival NSW, may have to be looked at following recent reports into NSW racing and field sizes. Statistics received reveal the success of last season’s programming initiatives. Across the board (Metropolitan, Provincial, Country) the total number of race fields with less than eight runners fell by 27%. And the most startling figure was race fields in the Metropolitan area, where fields with under eight runners decreased a massive 41.5%. “This is a very pleasing statistic and confirms our race programming schedules are heading in the right direction,” said Racing NSW General Manager for Racing Services, Keith Bulloch. (July 16) Spring Campaigns For Autumn Stars Polar Success, How Funny and Grand Armee are back in work looking the goods at this early stage, reports racenet.com.au. It was hard not to be very taken with the gallop of Polar Success yesterday as she lobbed over 600m in 39.9 sec before stretching her legs over the last 200m in 11.6 seconds. She looked to be going “half pace” over the final part of the gallop yet ran one of the fastest splits of the morning. Sometimes the smart How Funny looked clearly the best of Gai Waterhouse’s team and sometimes not last campaign. She raced well but, at times, not up to the enormous talent she naturally possesses. In her defence however, she was set an arduous campaign which included tilts at the Magic Millions, Blue Diamond and Golden Slipper. Her efforts to finish close seconds in the Magic Millions and Golden Slipper showed just how much potential she has. She’s a very strongly built filly and looks even better this time in. Grand Armee looks in magnificent shape for a horse starting a campaign which should culminate either in the Cox Plate or Caulfield Cup. (July 16) Syndicate Nominates Snippets For BOBS Leading bloodstock agent Vin Cox yesterday emerged as the ‘mystery man’ behind the nomination of deceased stallion Snippets to the New South Wales BOBS incentive scheme. Following a very public e-mail debate that transpired between various interested parties as to the merits of his nomination, Cox confirmed that Snippets has been nominated by a syndicate being formed to meet the $27,500 cost involved, which is based on his final service fee. “Snippets has a host of young horses which can benefit from his inclusion in the scheme, with some 87 rising 3-year-olds and 94 yearlings (rising two) set to hit the racetracks after August 1,” said Cox. “I firmly believe that we can make a return on the investment, and anyone interested in participating in the Vin Cox Bloodstock Snippets BOBS Syndicate should contact me.” (July 16) Eliza Park Creates New Position Victoria’s Eliza Park Stud has appointed Mr David Somers to the newly created senior management position of Stud Manager. He is due to commence duties next week after relocating from Ireland where he has been employed by the Irish National Stud over a ten year period. Somers is not new to the Australian breeding scene, having previously worked for Arrowfield Stud for five seasons and also spending a season at Mapperly Stud in New Zealand. In his role as Stud Manager, Somers will oversee the day to day activities of the farm’s broodmare Division, Foaling Unit and Stallion Division and ensure the cohesion of the various divisions to achieve the stud’s objectives. Marketing manager John Miller said Eliza Park is gearing up for its biggest season to date with a 2003 roster of 9 stallions including 4 first season sires: Bel Esprit, Grass Wonder, Delago Brom and Planchet. (July 16) Shaune Ritchie Quits Australia New Zealand trainer Shaune Ritchie who has been based at Rosehill for two years, is returning to train at Cambridge NZ reports NZ Thoroughbred News. The bulk of Ritchie’s clients are New Zealand based so he will rebuild his stable at the Waikato training center. Meanwhile he will continue on with a start in the $A175,000, Gr3, Grafton Cup, 2,400m tomorrow for A Star Affair even though the mare raced poorly at Randwick on Saturday. A Star Affair, to be ridden by New Zealander Matthew Williamson, joins New Zealand breds Raw Instinct, Majestically, Silent Impact, Pagno and Romeo George in a last chance to win a Group race this season. Fellow NZ and Rosehill based trainer Chris Waller will take over the horses who stay from Ritchie’s stable. Waller is enjoying a good spell for his stable with back to back Saturday metropolitan winners with exciting sprinter Lord Revoque and the consistent Centaine mare Go Ziggy. With 11 metropolitan winners this season Waller is now 15th on the Sydney trainers list. (July 16) AJC Vacancy Attracts Five Nominations The Australian Jockey Club has received five nominations for the Committee position recently vacated by former AJC Chairman Bill Rutledge. They nominees are: Peter Correy – A haulage contractor, now based in Sydney and formerly of Grafton. First joined the AJC in 1985. Thomas Ford – A former stockbroker and merchant banker, now on the board of several companies and a part-owner of Victory Vein. First joined the AJC in 1975. Stephen McShane – A self-employed financial markets trader who attends about 100 race meetings a year. First joined the AJC in 1981. Bradley O’Hare – A self-employed bloodstock agent, based in Sydney. First joined the AJC in 1985. Ross Smyth-Kirk – The Chairman of mining company Kingsgate Consolidated and a former director of Arrowfield. First joined the AJC in 1985. Voting papers will be dispatched to AJC members on Monday, July 28. The ballot closes at 2.30pm on Monday, August 18. (July 16) Fasliyev Dominance Points To Alannan Sire success was expected for Coolmore shuttler Fasliyev following his undefeated race career, highlighted by two Gr1 2YO victories, however his immediate and dominant impact has even the harshest of critics singing his praises. He has sired 14 individual 2YO winners so far this season including 3 individual Group winners from the only 5 Group races for 2YOs run in Europe in 2003. At the major yearling sales this year in Australia, 66 Fasliyev yearlings were sold with an average sale price of A$93,000, and a top price of $475,000. This all excites a Lindsay Park-led syndicate which has secured the record-breaking sprinter Alannan, a three-quarter relation to Mr P’s Princess, the dam of Fasliyev. With the book full sign over Fasliyev this year, his close relation Alannan, a wonderfully fast dual Gr2-winning sprinter himself, looms as a definite sire prospect. Alannan is by El Moxie's sire Conquistador Cielo and stands at Lindsay Park Stud in South Australia this year on debut for $8,250. (July 16) Ballingary Puts Aristotle Under Spotlight This month’s win by Ballingarry in the Gr3 Stars & Stripes Breeders Cup Turf at Arlington Park has thrust his elder full-brother Aristotle firmly back under the breeding spotlight. Already a cross Atlantic Gr1 winner, Ballingarry’s earnings of US$1,528,795 look to be boosted even further when he tackles the Gr1 Sword Dancer Handicap at Saratoga next month en-route to tackling another Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Turf. Like Ballingarry, Aristotle is by Sadler’s Wells. With earnings of almost $1 million and a precocious win in the Gr1 Doncaster Racing Post Trophy in England as a 2-year-old, Aristotle is proving a coup for Lynden Park Stud in Victoria. The duo are out of Gr1 winner Flamenco Wave, whose other offspring includes dual Gr1 winner Starborough. (July 16) Lowlander Continues To Firm Up Leading bookmaker Michael Eskander has two early favourites for the Caulfield Cup - Guy Walter's Republic Lass and Lee Freedman's Mummify, reports racenet.com.au. Both are currently rated at 12/1 and Mummify is 14/1 for the Melbourne Cup. Last year's Melbourne Cup winner Media Puzzle, trained by Champion Irish trainer Dermot Weld, remains favourite this year at 10/1 while there's been a fair bit of money for his stablemate Lowlander in the last fortnight and he's now come in to 25/1. He's a 4-year-old and is lightly raced with just the 15 starts. Owned by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Lowlander is by Fuji Kiseki (JPN) from Lake Valley (USA) ( Mr Prospector (USA) ). He's won four races ranging from 2400m up to 3200m and prefers the sting out of the ground. Lowlander has won on good/firm, soft and heavy. The most notable factor concerning his winning form is that he beat Media Puzzle at The Curragh last September on a good to firm track over the Melbourne Cup distance. (July 16) Galway Festival A Community Winner Highlighting the extent to which racing carnivals add to economic growth, an independent study has revealed that the Galway Racing Festival boosts the local economy to the tune of €58 million. According to Irish Thoroughbred Marketing, a study carried out by the Marketing Development Programme at University College Dublin’s Michael Smurfit Graduate School of Business found that in excess of €11 million was spent on-track during the seven-day Festival in 2002. Spending outside the racecourse totalled more than €23 million and when the economic impact of this is calculated, the total contribution to the local economy was equivalent to €58 million. (July 16) Ellerslie Pays Tribute To Owners At the Auckland Racing Club's final meeting of this season at Ellerslie on Saturday, all owners who have raced a horse at the Auckland track during the current season – there are nearly 2,500 of them – will be in the running to win a brand new 3-door Holden Barina. And for those connections actually racing a horse at the meeting, they will be hosted to a function in the Guineas Room which includes a lunch, complimentary drink on arrival and numerous prize give-aways. This will be the eighth consecutive year of the Schofield Owners' Day, and the sixth time that a lucky owner will win a Holden Barina. For their contribution, trainers stand to win a Marantz SR4300 Home Theatre Surround Sound system with AV 6.1 receiver, 310PDD.1 speakers and a sub-woofer. (July 16) First Winner For Victory Gallop Champion and classic winner Victory Gallop was represented by his first winner when his son Victory Light won on July 12 at Arlington Park. A homebred for Kenny Troutt and Bill Casner's WinStar Farm, the colt won at a mile in 1:36.70. Winner of the 1998 Belmont Stakes (GrI), millionaire Victory Gallop (Cryptoclearance--Victorious Lil, by Vice Regent) stands at WinStar near Versailles, Ky, reports thebloodhorse.com. (July 16) First Winner For Limit Out And the first winner for Gr2 winner Limit Out was Ericka's Lass. Bred by Casey Seaman, Ericka's Lass, reports thebloodhorse.com, won on July 11 at five furlongs in 1:01 at Assiniboia Downs for Empire Stable. Limit Out (Northern Flagship -- Lucky Delight, by Miswaki) stands at Leverett Miller's T-Square Stud near Fairfield, Florida. (July 16) Prawn Turned Into Sausage Wednesday Odd Spot: Robert and his dad Walter Altieri will stand the highly regarded son of Danehill Jeune King Prawn at their Newlands Stud in Victoria this spring. They are excited, and with good reason, as Jeune King Prawn was regarded during his career as a potential superstar of Hong Kong racing. Excitement of course breeds enthusiasm and sometimes enthusiastic responses go awry. For example, Robert sent an emailed pic of Jeune King Prawn to hundreds of media and breeding email addresses during the week. A day later he then followed up with this missive: Dear Sir / Madam, Newlands would like to inform all people who received an email circulated on Saturday of Jeune King Prawn as faulty. Somehow the picture of Jeune King Prawn got distorted in the email process. This made him look like a long, sausage-like horse when he is really a well balanced sprinter miler. And we thought everyone liked scopey individuals! (July 16) Champion Jumper Specular Bound for UK Gifted jumper Specular will pursue his career overseas after being sold last week for a reported figure of $750,000. Purchased at the 1998 Australian Easter Yearling Sale for $325,000, the son of Danehill (USA) and Auckland Cup winner Spyglass (NZ) discovered his true calling when tried over the jumps by Mornington based trainer Tony Rosolini. The rising 7-year-old won eight from ten hurdle starts and was a tragedy beaten in the Grand National Hurdle when lumbered with the crushing weight of 70.5 kg, going down by a short head. He bows out of Australian racing with an overall record of 12 wins and 15 placings from 54 starts and prizemoney of $463,130. (July 15) STC Figures Are Revealing Lead by a staggering 11% increase in prize money, to $29 million for the financial year just ended, the Sydney Turf Club contributed to the industry its highest return on record. It was a year that also saw the STC become the first NSW Race Club to pay $50,000 Standard Saturday prize money. Michael Kenny, Chief Executive of the STC said, “Our turnover figures are excellent, attendances are continuing to channel upward and our returns to the industry are becoming increasingly robust. Our publicity and marketing have been key drivers, particularly during our Golden Slipper Festival, with Rosehill Gardens and the AAMI Golden Slipper continuing to generate much hype and excitement. The figures show that we are certainly riding a wave of popularity for our sport, with crowds increasing across the board for the first time in five years.” The STC also revealed: 69,498 total crowd over the four weeks of the 2003 Golden Slipper Festival, an increase of 18.3% on 2002; On course turnover of $9.38 million, an increase of 30% on 2002; Bookmakers turnover of $29 million, a 33% increase from 2002. For the Financial Year just ended, the Club has reported Bookmaker figures are up a huge 24% to $221 million for the year, with TAB turnover on STC races also rising strongly to settle at close to $300 million. (July 15) NZ Lands World’s Priciest Yearling Trelawney Stud in New Zealand is the lucky recipient of Van Nistelrooy – at US$6.4 million the world’s most expensive yearling sold at auction in 2001 – who has been retired from racing due to injury. The son of Storm Cat will shuttle to Trelawney for the upcoming season after a deal was brokered by New Zealand Bloodstock and Adrian Nicoll of BBA (Ireland). Van Nistelrooy won his first three races as a 2-year-old, all at Ireland’s racing headquarters The Curragh. The third of these was the Gr2 Futurity Stakes, and three weeks later, in the Gr1 National Stakes, Van Nistelrooy was narrowly beaten into second by this year’s Gr1 English 2,000 Guineas winner Refuse To Bend. He will enter quarantine later this week and be shipped to New Zealand in early August. (July 15) Inglis Winter Thoroughbred Sale Growing The Winter Thoroughbred Sale at Newmarket on Friday of this week has attracted a further 40 entries for the supplementary catalogue including a big selection of tried racehorses highlighted by superbly bred Gr2 winning stallion Courvoisier, a son of in form Hennessy (USA). The Alicia Willick-trained Legerdemain did a great job last week to win the Grafton Cup Prelude and is a timely advertisement for the Winter Thoroughbred Sale. He was purchased for just $14,000 at last year’s sale and has gone on to win five races and more than $30,000 for his lucky connections and has his sights now on the $175,000 Grafton Cup over 2,400m set down for Thursday of this week. (July 15) Regimental Gal Back In Work Toowoomba trainer Shaun Dwyer has the midas touch of late with Pistol Knight yet another winner for him last Saturday at Eagle Farm. But his big news is that Regimental Gal is back in work being prepared for some of the spring carnival riches in the southern states. Regimental Gal shot to prominence when she beat a crack field in the $1 million Magic Millions 2YO Classic on the Gold Coast earlier this year. The daughter of General Nediym, is in great shape according to Dwyer. “Things are going very well with her,” Dwyer reported. “She is an exciting filly and I’m looking forward to this coming preparation.” Pistol Knight, a son of the in form Queensland based sire Clang, is tipped to be a big improver at his next preparation too. Dwyer told connections he had never thought the youngster to be a [quality] 2-year-old and that he would always be better as a 3-year-old or even older. Pistol Knight has banked $88,000 in his first prep. (July 15) Catalogues Released For Gold Coast Sale Catalogues are just out for Magic Millions’ popular August Thoroughbred Sale, which will be held at their Gold Coast complex on August 3. The sale includes a cross section of (just turned) yearlings, 2-year-olds, racing stock and broodmares, plus a stallion share. Some 77 thoroughbreds have been catalogued for the main sale, including yearlings by proven sires Lion Hunter, Carnegie, Fasliyev, Thunder Gulch, Piccolo, Danewin, Secret Savings and Iglesia. Highlights are expected to include a: Filly by Gr1 sire Lion Hunter, closely related to MM Gr1 star Special Dane Carnegie filly from the family of Kaapeon and Hon Kwok Star Colt by hot young sire Fasliyev from the Gr1 Oaks winner Weekend Delight Colt by leading shuttle sire Thunder Gulch from a stakes performed Danehill mare Piccolo colt, bred on same cross as Gr1 winner Picaday, from a winning Semipalatinsk mare Danehill Dancer colt from Semipalatinsk mare bred on same cross at Private Steer (July 15) Cooper To Ride In Japan Sydney's leading female jockey Bernadette Cooper is set to break new ground reports aapracingandsports.com.au when she takes up a lucrative three-month riding contract in Japan next month. Cooper will be the only woman on the National Association of Racing (NAR) circuit and is looking forward to the challenge. "I've been licensed by the Ohi Race Club from 3 August and am just waiting for my work visa," Cooper said. "I've ridden in Malaysia and New Zealand but this will be totally different. I felt I was stagnating a bit here and this move will be pretty important to my career. "The NAR is the secondary circuit in Japan and conducts all its races on dirt while the Japan Racing Association (JRA) mixes both dirt and turf. Cooper will be sponsored by a Japanese trainer but will be able to take outside rides. The effervescent Cooper stands out in a crowd at the best of times but is sure to be a hit with the Japanese after dying her famous red hair blonde. Cooper began her career in her native Queensland in 1990 and moved to Sydney almost 3 years ago after being persuaded by trainer Paul Sutherland to give it a go when he returned after some years on the Gold Coast. (July 15) Empire Strikes In England Spectacularly bred Freshman sire Second Empire (Fairy King – Welsh Love) has sired his first winner in England. Heytesbury Stud in WA, which stands the Gr1 winning 2-year-old shuttler, confirmed yesterday that Dark Empress won at Warwick last Thursday over 7 furlongs with plenty in hand. On a “good to firm” surface, the filly won by 1 1/2 lengths. Dark Empress is a grand-daughter of Gr3-winning juvenile Impudent Miss, and is the first racehorse ever owned by Lady Marchwood. This was her second start, following a runner-up debut effort at Goodwood over 6 furlongs. Second Empire’s first Australian 2-year-olds will make their debut next season. (July 15) Speed & Money Are Killing Our Horses Participants in a medication workshop reached the consensus that "over-medication" may contribute to fewer starts by racehorses, reports the bloodhorse.com, but other factors – racetrack surfaces, an emphasis on speed, too much pressure on 2-year-olds, and a thirst for quick profit – probably are just as responsible. The workshop, held during the National Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association summer convention in Cleveland, Ohio, was designed to bring horsemen up to speed on current issues. "For those that say (over-medication of racehorses) is the only reason for fewer starts, that's over-simplification," said Lonny Powell, president of the Association of Racing Commissioners International. "This industry has placed an emphasis on speed.... that has an ultimate impact on the soundness of horses." Kent Stirling, executive director of the Florida HBPA and a former trainer, targeted breeze-ups held before 2-year-old in training sales. He said the horses are made to go too fast too soon, and may in fact need therapeutic medication because they are "damaged goods," and because the people who have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in them need a return on their investment. Stirling said purses for 2-year-old races should be decreased, and the money funneled to races for older horses. "I think we all know speed kills," Stirling said. Panelists said the situation has developed over time as the breeding industry has focused on 2-year-old speed and a quick return on investment. Stirling said it has carried over to older horses: a recent meeting in Florida had 24 races for older horses that were less than six furlongs in distance, while five years ago, the number of races in that category was seven, and in 1991, it was zero. Stirling cited research that shows thoroughbreds made an average of 9.2 starts in 1980, but only about seven in 2000. He then said Standardbreds made an average of 16.1 starts in 1980, and 16.4 last year. (July 15) Congaree Wins Hollywood Gold Cup Multi millionaire Congaree put a smile on the face of many people yesterday not the least of which was Victorian studmaster Mike Becker. Congaree easily disposed of multiple Gr1 winner Harlan’s Holiday to win the US$750,000 (Gr1) at Hollywood Park. The 5-year-old Congaree, trained by Bob Baffert, entered the Hollywood Gold Cup off a disappointing sixth-place finish, behind Aldebaran, in the Metropolitan Handicap (Gr1) on May 26 at Belmont Park. But the handsome son of Arazi snared his fourth Gr1 victory, having already earned wins in the 2001 Swaps Stakes (Gr1), the 2002 Cigar Mile Handicap (Gr1), and the 2003 Carter Handicap (Gr1) by leading pretty much all the way from the 1,200m mark onwards. He carved out the 10 furlongs trip in 2.00.2 beating Dubai World Cup Gr1 runner-up Harlan’s Holiday by three lengths with another millionaire Kudos a further two lengths back third. Becker will be doing cartwheels because he stands Congaree’s sire Arazi this year at his Independent Thoroughbred Stallion Station in Victoria. The win took Congaree’s stake earnings to US$2.7 million. Congaree is by Arazi from Mari’s Sheba and was ridden by the all-conquering Jerry Bailey. “Arazi boasts an 81.3% winners-to-runners ratio and Congaree is his best thus far,” said Becker who will stand him in Australia this season for $11,000. (July 15) Super 12 For Keeneland September America’s Keeneland Association has catalogued 4,294 horses for its September yearling sale, according to The Thoroughbred Times. The auction, the largest of its kind in the world, is set to run for 12 sessions from September 8 to September 20. There are 73 fewer horses catalogued than last year’s sale which saw 2,934 horses sell for a gross of US$210,809,000, a slide of 17.1% from 2001. One of the highlights of the sale is bound to be a chestnut colt by Dubai Millennium. Given the Maktoum family has retained most of the ill-fated sire’s only crop, he could be the only yearling ever sold at auction by Dubai Millennium in North America. Adding spice to his inclusion is his pedigree: he is a half-brother to 1999 Mother Goose Stakes (Gr1) winner Dreams Gallore and Gr3 winner Fateful Dream. (July 15) All Honours With Adelaide Buy One of Malaysia’s hottest young gallopers, Street Talk, has extended his unbeaten run to five starts. Despite facing a heavy track for the first time in his career, the 3-year-old son of Honour and Glory (a previous Coolmore shuttler) treated his rivals with utter contempt, scorching the turf to win by five lengths in Penang over the weekend. A $40,000 steal from the 2001 Adelaide Sale, Street Talk (ex Punch) was purchased by Kuek Ser Kee from the quality Lakewood Stud draft – a draft which also included Saturday’s Moonee Valley star Royal Sash. Street Talk is unbeaten in his five runs and no race rival is yet to get within five lengths of the budding star. (July 15) Selangor Posts Healthy Growth Following the successful Selangor Gold Cup four day meeting in June – highlighted by the running of Malaysia’s richest race, the RM1.5 million Selangor Gold Cup – the Chairman of Selangor Turf Club YAM Tunku Dato’ Seri Shahabuddin has made some positive announcements. “For the first half of year 2003, racing attendance has gone up by 17% while betting turnover records a healthy growth of 5% as compared to the first half of 2002 racing season,” he revealed. This was despite “a slight decline during the month of March and April that resulted from the SARS outbreak.” Tunku Shahabuddin added, “However, we should not be contented with this upward trend and it is essential for us to continue to introduce and innovate new events to attract more racing fans.” (July 15) Sargent Takes Charge in NZ Guy Sargent, Palmerston North, is the new chairman of New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing, according to thoroughbrednews.co.nz, who revealed that Sargent won a vote 5-4 over Brian Kinley in a two-way race for the chairman’s role at Friday afternoon's NZTR Board meeting. Sargent, 46, a brother of Matamata trainer John Sargent, is the president of the Manawatu Racing Club. He has been on the Board of NZTR for the past two years. The thoroughbrednews.co.nz report stated Sargent will “call a meeting with sector groups in the near future to discuss the industry's problems and to resolve ways to move ahead with positive change.” (July 15) Grafton Provides Clue To South African Gr1 Sprint Tuesday odd-spot: Trainer Tim Martin’s $20,000 Inglis Classic buy, Johnny Reb, could provide the clue to South Africa’s Gr1 Mercury Sprint (1200m) at Clairwood in Durban on Sunday. The son of Naturalism won the South Grafton Cup last week, and his South African namesake – trained by leading trainer Buddy Maroun – will take his place in the 11 horse field which also features Maroun’s ever-green sprinting star Golden Loom. South Africa’s Johnny Reb is a 5-year-old by Fast Gun. (July 15) Coolmore To Stand Choisir The persistent rumours of last week have been confirmed: global breeding giant Coolmore has purchased European champion sprinter-elect Choisir. The Australian-bred son of Danehill Dancer will begin his stud career at Coolmore’s Hunter Valley property in September. "We are absolutely thrilled to have been able to buy Choisir," declared Coolmore Australia's general manager Michael Kirwan. "He is a wonderful 'type' whose great performances at Royal Ascot and Newmarket have done more for Australian racing than any horse since Phar Lap. He has absolutely vindicated the whole shuttle-sire concept which you could say has now turned full circle as Choisir’s grandsire Danehill was one of the pioneering shuttlers and the first to enjoy major success here... Choisir is exactly the type of horse that 'the shuttle' has endeavoured to produce – a horse capable of showcasing the Australian thoroughbred on the world stage. We are very gratified to have been able to ensure that Choisir remains accessible to Australian breeders and that he will also get the chance himself to take up dual-hemisphere duties at Coolmore in Ireland." (July 14) $30,250 Fee Set For Choisir "Choisir will stand at a fee of Aus$30,250, including GST," announced Kirwan. "As a dual Group One winner in both hemispheres, and as the best son of Danehill's best international sire son, he is sure to prove extremely popular at that figure. Danehill Dancer himself has been one of our most popular sires for the coming season, boasting as he does not only Choisir but also recent Gr1 Stradbroke winner Private Steer. "Choisir, of course, had already earned Gr1 honours in Australia. Rated the champion 2YO colt in Australia last season, and winner this season of the Gr1 VRC Lightning Stakes at Flemington, Choisir was given a special "Best International Performer" award at last week's official Racing Awards function in Melbourne. He retires to stud as the only stallion in the country to have won at Gr1 level in both Europe and Australia. (July 14) Ninetyfive Emperor Rises To Challenge Singapore’s boom 3-year-old, Ninetyfive Emperor, has done it again. The $200,000 final leg of the Singapore Three-Year-Old Challenge fell to the son of Rory’s Jester last Friday, giving him eight wins from his past nine starts. In so doing, Ninetyfive Emperor earned a $50,000 bonus by adding this leg to his second-leg success. Prior to Friday’s success he had made it seven straight when winning the second leg of the $175,000 Gr3 Singapore 3YO Challenge over 1,400 metres at Kranji. Second in the event was Kilat Maori, from leading hopes Raul and Ocean Butterfly. (July 14) Sixty Seconds Wins US Debut Kiwi star, the Centaine mare Sixty Seconds, made her US debut with a spectacular one-mile performance at Belmont Park over the weekend. It was a US$52,000 allowance race on grass and she came from 6th at the bend to win by three lengths drawing away. It was the former Gr1 winner’s first start in nine months – she had not started since suffering a bleeding attack when last in the Gr2 Turnbull Stakes at Flemington last October. Formerly trained by Roger James, the five-year-old mare is now in the care of Christophe Clement and was piloted by champion jockey Jerry Bailey. Originally purchased by Glenlogan Park Stud’s John Hasseler for $80,000 at the 2000 New Zealand Bloodstock Premier Yearling Sale, Sixty Seconds was sold to the late Gerald Leigh for a sum reported to be $1 million after winning the Gr 2 Fayette Park Championship Stakes at Ellerslie prior to coming to Australia for the Gr1 Arrowfield Stks, and Gr1 AJC Oaks. Racing in the colours of her new owner Sixty Seconds (ex Fifteen Reasons) won the $400,000 Gr1 Arrowfield Stud Stakes (2000m) at Rosehill and was desperately unlucky in the Oaks. A full-sister to Manawatu Classic (Gr3) winner Spottswoode, Sixty Seconds has earned $420,803 from a record of 5 wins, 1 second and two thirds from 13 starts now. (July 14) South African Champion Injured In US South Africa’s sahorseracing.com has made a shock announcement regarding the country’s globetrotting sensation Ipi Tombe. According to their news flash, the 2002 Gr1 Vodacom July Handicap winner, and winner of the Dubai Duty Free 2003, has apparently injured herself during track work in the US. Quoting “a reliable source” the report stated the former Mike De Kock-trained mare, now trained by Elliot Walden, has hurt a tendon. The severity of the injury is unknown at this stage, but is not thought to be career threatening. (July 14) Octogenarian Trains Irish Oaks Winner Ireland’s 84-year-old Paddy Mullins, dubbed ‘the quiet man of Irish racing’ by racingpost.co.uk, has capped his training career with victory in the Gr1 Darley Irish Oaks on Sunday. Starting at 12/1, bargain-buy Vintage Tipple was having only her second start of the season, after finishing her 2-year-old season with a two for two record. Ridden by Frankie Dettori, she won by a length-and-a-half from L'Ancresse, with Gr1 Epsom Oaks winner Casual Look a head back in third. Favourite for the race was Yesterday, however the 11/8 failed to live up to her pre-race billing and could only manage fourth place. Vintage Tipple was purchased for Euro16,000 at Goffs' February sale last year. (July 14) O’Brien Colt Cool As A Cucumber Irish trainer Aidan O’Brien appears to have a mortgage on the Anglesey Stakes, following his fourth win in five years in the event at The Curragh on Sunday afternoon. According to racingpost.co.uk, the exciting O’Brien-trained youngster One Cool Cat won in the manner befitting his starting quote of 3/1 on. One Cool Cat is by the world’s most expensive stallion, Storm Cat, and his win in the Anglesey Stakes (won by Johannesburg in 2001) has seen him rocket into contention for the Gr1 Sagitta 2000 Guineas. Trained for Sue Magnier, One Cool Cat is a US$3.1 million buy, and is the 3rd foal of Mr. Prospector mare Tacha, a sister to high-class performer Sha Tha (dam of State Shinto) and a half-sister to smart stayer Brier Creek. One Cool Cat’s next target could be the Gr1 Phoenix Stakes, a race won by Choisir’s sire, Danehill Dancer. (July 14) Vegso's 3YO Wins Virginia Derby One of the nicest men in North American racing, Peter Vegso, celebrated his day at the races on the weekend when his horse Silver Tree took out the US$500,000 Virginia Derby at Colonial Park in daring fashion. Vegso, who owns a sprawling breeding farm at Boca Raton in Florida, also owns the HCI Publishing company which came to world wide prominence in the mid 90s by publishing the Chicken Soup series of self help books. Well, what comes around goes around it seems as Vegso's Hennessy-Blue Begum colt, trained by his trainer Bill Mott, and ridden by Edgar Prado, raced home to win the 10 furlong coveted event at 12/1. Silver Tree assumed the early lead, set the pace one off the fence, quickly increased his advantage when set down in upper stretch and held sway under brisk urging to win by 1 1/2 lengths in an effort that screamed "I'm a star in the making." Kicken Kris, reserved inside horses, swung four wide at the head of the stretch, drifted out in mid-stretch and rallied, battled for second while King's Drama (IRE) finished on from well back for third. Disappointment for the race was the odds-on fav Senor Swinger for Pat Day. The win is yet another shot in the arm for Coolmore which has decided to bring the now very-much-in-demand Hennessy back to Australia for stud duties this season. (July 14) During Wins Swaps Stakes Jerry Bailey was again in the winners' circle at Hollywood Park on the weekend when he guided During home to win the US$400,000 Gr2 Swaps Stakes over 1 1/8 mile. During took the early lead then set the pace inside, turned back bids from Eye Of The Tiger who wilted to dead heat for third. During was headed in the stretch but fought back along the rail and prevailed under urging. Ten Most Wanted, runner-up in the Belmont Stakes last start and ridden by Pat Day, launched a bid four wide leaving the backstretch and into the second turn, put his head in front three deep into the stretch and continued willingly through a stiff drive but was outgunned by the winner. Outta Here who sat four wide early, eased then came again in the straight to also dead heat for third. The winner won by a head and is by Cherokee Run from Blazing Saddle. The 3YO is trained by Bob Baffert. (July 14) Cee's Elegance Takes The A Gleam The US$250,000 Gr2 A Gleam Handicap over 7 furlongs at Hollywood Park, went to a bolter in Cees' Elegance. The 6Y0 daughter of Cee's Tizzy and Elegant Beauty stalked outside Bear Fan on the backstretch until the turn, then strode past her in the stretch, gained the advantage and proved best under a strong hand ride to beat the odds-on favourite You who was a tad slow to begin. She burst between horses in late stretch, but could not catch the winner. Affluent dropped back early and raced unhurried off the rail on the backstretch till the turn, came three deep into the straight and finished well for 3rd with Bear Fan weakening to 4th. Cee's Elegance clocked 1.21.2 and was ridden by Victor Espinoza. (July 14) Taiaslew Wins Derby Trial The traditional lead-up race to the Manitoba Derby (Canada), was run on the weekend. Taiaslew (Slewdledo - Taiayellowribbon by Sharper One) started a prohibitive long odds-on favourite and won the Derby Trial Stakes by three lengths from Fancy Bru with another 5 1/2 lengths to Sand Rush in third. Both races are run at Assiniboia Downs in Winnipeg - the trial over 1 1/16 mile on dirt, the Derby in late July over 10 furlongs and worth just over C$100,000. (July 14) San Diego Blowout Wins Big In Canada One of Woodbine's biggest juvenile races, the C$135,000 Colin Stakes over 6 furlongs on the dirt, was won by the raging hot favourite San Diego Blowout on the weekend. And this colt may be a North American star in the making. He scorched through in 1.10.2 and won by nearly 8 lengths. San Diego Blowout pressed the pace inside the runner up, came off the rail early on the turn, shot clear in the stretch, and drew off four wide to win as he pleased. Gemini Dream set the pace from the rail, but plodded when challenged and ran second. Zakocity was third. San Diego Blowout is a roan colt, by Confide - Pearls for Girls by Rustic Ruler and was ridden by Emile Ramsammy for trainer Abraham Katryan. (July 14) Twining Star Wins Again Those who have mares in foal to Vinery Stud's Twining will be pleased to note his star galloper Pie N Burger won again on the weekend, this time in the US$60,000 Bob Johnson Memorial Stakes over a mile on dirt at Lone Star Park. The gelding shifted past early leader Compendium after 800m, then pressed a solid pace, before he drew away under a drive to prove much the best winning by 5 1/2 lengths racing away with every stride home. The winner is from the Topsider mare Abarca and he beat Agrivating General and Compendium to the line. Jamie Theriot rode him for trainer Cole Norman. Meanwhile, Vinery is also celebrating the win over the weekend of Mobil in Canada’s Gr3 C$165,000 Toronto Cup at Woodbine. Runner-up in the Queen’s Plate when favourite, Mobil is by Vinery’s Langfuhr. (July 14) Rogey Sells Horses In NT Powerful Trans-Tasman trainer Graeme Rogerson and leading thoroughbred sales company Magic Millions, are giving owners and trainers in the Northern Territory a rare opportunity. They will be able to buy a well bred and performed galloper with the staging of a unique sale next month. The Fannie Bay racecourse in Darwin will be the venue for the Magic Millions Graeme A Rogerson’s Racing Stables Northern Territory Venture Dispersal Sale on Sunday, August 3. Twenty nine gallopers of all ages and classes will go under the hammer providing leading trainers in Alice Springs and Darwin with the chance to buy a proven racetrack performer. Among the horses to be offered at the auction are the Flemington carnival Group winner To Be Fair, Melbourne winner and Group Two placegetter Wild Heart, Sydney winners View from Above, Mi Senorita and Sudden Gold and the Australian and Dubai stakes winner Flight Pattern. Other horses in the catalogue include the last start Fannie Bay two-year-old winner Masked Lady and Adelaide winner Fiddles (3g Piccolo-Just Now); Criterium (3g Belong to Me-So and So) who has been twice runner-up from just eight starts; Lion Pride (3g Lion Hunter-Battle Day) who is a triple winner and three time Sydney placed grey gelding. (July 14) Stubbs Painting Brings More Than $3 Million At Auction Monday odd-spot: An 18th-century painting of a Thoroughbred by British artist George Stubbs has sold for $3.15-million at Bonham’s auction house in London, more than three times estimates of its worth pre-auction. The 4x3-foot oil on canvas painting, titled "A Dark Bay Thoroughbred in a Landscape," was purchased by Ray Waterhouse on behalf of an unidentified New York collector, the Associated Press reports. The painting was appraised at $978,000. The painting dates from the early 1760s. Waterhouse described his client as "a collector with a connoisseur’s eye." According to records, the painting hung in 1862 at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, home of the dukes of Marlborough. (July 14) Choisir July Cup 1: Aust Sprinter 2nd In UK Gr1 Australian sprinter Choisir (Danehill Dancer-Great Selection, by Lunchtime) attempted to lead all-the-way, but finished a gallant 2nd behind Juddmonte Farms 3YO homebred colt Oasis Dream (Green Desert-Hope, by Dancing Brave) in the Gr1 July Cup (6 furlongs) at Newmarket in England overnight. Oasis Dream (3rd behind Choisir in the Kings Stand Stakes at Ascot last month) won by 1.5 lengths, with top UK filly Airwave (by Air Express) 3rd. Choisir (ridden by Johnny Murtagh) started 9-4 favourite, with Airwave (Keiron Fallon) 2nd pick at 11-4 & Oasis Dream (Richard Hughes) next in the betting at 9-2. “The victory was the 105th in a Gr1 stakes event for Saudi Arabian Prince Khalid Abdullah’s Juddmonte stable,” noted thoroughbredtimes.com. (July 11) Choisir July Cup 2: Trainer Perry’s Comments Choisir’s trainer Paul Perry told racingpost.co.uk after the race: “The winner was the fresh horse, trained for the race. But we’ve come over & done our job. It’s been a great effort for a horse that’s done a fair bit. He really wasn’t trained with the race in mind, but stayed on for it & ran well. We’re really happy with him. I suppose you take into consideration he has had the long trip, & a good bit of racing before he came, & it was never the plan to run. If we could have put him into quarantine, we would never have planned to run here. It takes a lot out of a horse. It was a courageous run to do what he did. We’re not going to stay for the Nunthorpe. He will go into quarantine next week.” (July 11) Choisir July Cup 3: Winning Trainer’s Comments And Oasis Dream’s trainer John Gosden told racingpost.co.uk: “What Choisir achieved at Royal Ascot was so phenomenal. I admire the horse. He’s been beaten before. He beat us at Ascot, although we weren’t ready then, but we had to get on the track. We were basically prepping there to come here. That was a Gr2 with a penalty. This is a Gr1, but I don’t feel like a spoilsport. It’s great to take on a tough nut like that. We knew when we attacked him up the hill he was going to come back at us & not give in easily. What I liked about it was that it was a hell of a horse race. We knew we had to go out & attack Choisir, because he is an exceptional sprinter." Gosden also added: “The great thing about this is that Choisir has elevated the whole status of Australian breeding, come to Europe, knocked us on the head at Royal Ascot, the perfect place to do it to the Poms, & we’ve levelled the score here. As far as I’m concerned, it’s like a Test Match. Let’s have a few more.” (July 11) Choisir July Cup 4: UK Media Comments UK racing reporter Marcus Townend summed up for racenet.com.au: “Choisir was a bit of a novelty when he first came out, because we more used to seeing our horses head down to Australia for the Melbourne Cup. Maybe our trainers will start getting nervous next year, if there's a block-booking of Australian sprinters heading over! He ran a phenomenally tough race. He tried his heart out, but in the end Oasis Dream has turned the tables on him." Choisir was bidding “to become the 1st horse since Diadem in 1920 to win the King’s Stand Stakes, Golden Jubilee Stakes & July Cup in the same season,” noted racingpost.co.uk. (July 11) Choisir July Cup 5: Oasis Dream Is Top Class Choisir’s conqueror Oasis Dream (carrying 56.5kg compared to Choisir’s 59.5kg) had won England’s Gr1 Shadwell Stud Middle Park Stakes last year at Newmarket en route to earning 2YO high-weight colt honors on the English Free Handicap. Overall he has now won 3 of 6 starts. Oasis Dream is a half-brother to last year's French Gr1 Poule d'Essai des Pouliches winner Zenda; & their dam is a sister to Gr1 Irish Oaks winner Wemyss Bight. The winner’s sire Green Desert (Danzig-Foreign Courier, by Sir Ivor) stands at Shadwell Stud in Norfolk. (July 11) Choisir July Cup 6: More Australians Will Follow Trainer Paul Perry also told racingpost.co.uk that the exploits of Choisir (a $55,000 purchase at the Inglis 2001 Classic Yearling Sale in Sydney) will inevitably lead to more Australian-trained horses being campaigned in Europe, adding: “This has been a tremendous, fabulous experience for us. There will definitely be more interest from Australia. A lot of people have taken interest.” (July 11) Choisir July Cup 7: Has He Been Sold? Finally thoroughbredinternet.com reported this morning that “with the sweat barely dry” on the July Cup runners, “the deal to purchase 3YO Australian sprinter Choisir, a gallant 2nd in Europe's premier 6-furlong sprint, has already been done. One of Europe's leading breeding farms, with an Australian arm, is believed to have won the race to secure the dual Gr1 winning son of Danehill Dancer, beating off an offer from a prominent Australian farm in a deal reputed to be worth A$10 million before the start” of last night's race. “Breeding sheds in 2 hemispheres await.” (July 11) Fasliyev Adds Stakes Win At Newmarket At the same UK Newmarket meeting overnight, boom Coolmore freshman sire & shuttler Fasliyev recorded his 3rd Group stakes winner when his 2YO colt Kings Point (Fasliyev-Rahika Rose, by Unfuwain) “continued the fine run of early success for his sire” in the Gr3 Superlative Stakes (7 furlongs), reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Kings Point defeated Chester Le Street (by Horse Chestnut) & King Hesperus (by Kingmambo). A 150,000 guineas purchase by Peter Doyle at the Tattersalls Houghton Sale, Kings Point is the 1st foal of Listed Athasi Stakes 3rd-placing Rahika Rose. English 1999 champion 2YO Fasliyev (Nureyev-Mr P's Princess, by Mr Prospector) shuttles between Coolmore in Ireland & Australia, & is currently Leading 1st Season Sire in Europe. (July 11) Cambridge Boost With Cape Fear’s UK Group Placing And NZ Cambridge Stud’s Darley shuttler Cape Cross (Green Desert-Park Appeal, by Ahonoora) recorded his 1st Gr2 placing when 2YO Cape Fear finished a close 2nd in the Gr2 TNT July Stakes (6 furlongs) at Newmarket in England, reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. Cape Fear (purchased for 22,000 guineas as a yearling) is from Polar Falcon (by Nureyev) mare Only In Dreams. Cape Cross is already the sire of 3 stakes horses, including: Privy Seal 3rd in the Gr3 Coventry Stakes; & Cedarberg 2nd in the Listed Woodcote Stakes. (July 11) Bet Exchange 1: Taskforce Advises ‘No’ The “life expectancy” of betting exchanges such as UK giant Betfair in Australia “is all but over” after the Betting Exchange taskforce yesterday recommended no Australian licences be granted to such operations, reported The Daily Telegraph. The taskforce’s findings “have encouraged racing ministers from around the country to present a united front when lobbying the federal Government to implement such recommendations.” (July 11) Bet Exchange 2: NSW Govt Pushes For Ban Wagering giant TAB Ltd has lauded the NSW government's push to ban on-line betting exchanges, saying it was time to crack down on "parasites" who returned nothing to the industry, reported aapracingandsports.com.au. NSW Minister for Gaming & Racing Grant McBride called for the ban yesterday, following the release of a state-by-state report by the Betting Exchange Task Force. He said the task force confirmed his original views that licences should not be awarded to betting exchanges, adding they “compromised the industry's integrity & robbed it of financial returns.” TAB Ltd's wagering chief executive Peter Kadar praised the state government's move: "These operators (exchanges) provide not 1 cent to the staging & development of racing & sport in this country, nor do they provide funding for community projects." (July 11) Bet Exchange 3: Betfair Responds To Task Force Report UK betting exchange Betfair, in turn, expressed “no surprise that some Australian State participants in the all-states Betting Exchange Task Force would seek a total ban on this legitimate method of wagering. The Betting Exchange Task Force report appears to reflect the views of state- protected monopoly TABs who are afraid of competition. By declaring that they will not authorise Betfair or betting exchanges, some States have dismissed an opportunity to expand State revenue from Betfair’s on-line bookmaking service, to install 1 of the most sophisticated high-technology audit trails with which to attack corruption & money laundering, & to offer the average Australian punter a more competitive wagering alternative than the protected monopoly of the TAB. This represents a raw deal for the average Australian punter, who should be entitled to competitive odds, the transparency of an on-line wagering environment & the integrity afforded by Betfair’s unparalleled electronic audit trail.” (July 11) Contagious Disease Detected At Rosehill Racing NSW stewards yesterday quarantined “a section of stables at Rosehill following detection of the contagious disease 'Strangles' in a couple of racehorses.” Stewards had been advised that an outbreak of Strangles (a notifiable disease) had occurred within the on-course stabling complex of trainer Tim Martin. Stewards immediately “quarantined the affected barn until further notice” & Martin was notified “to work with Racing NSW veterinarian Mark Caves & his own vets to manage the situation.” Racing NSW chairman of stewards Ray Murrihy noted: "We haven't seen any reason for alarm at this stage, but all Rosehill trainers have been warned to keep a close eye out for any symptoms. These include failure to eat up, elevated temperature (fever), nasal discharge & swollen lymph nodes around the head area." Martin has had 9 horses quarantined in his 'south-eastern' barn, ranging in age from yearlings to 1 3YO. (July 11) Racing NSW Warning On ‘Strangles’ Symptoms Racing NSW advised that horses suffering from Strangles have symptoms of “pus discharges from their nostrils & swellings (abscesses) forming in the lymph glands under the jaw. These abscesses often burst & exude a thick yellow pus. Affected horses may develop a fever, be depressed & stop eating. Most animals recover (usually following a course of penicillin). But horses which contract even a mild case of Strangles must be isolated & removed from training or heavy work for up to 3 months. In some cases, the infection can cause chronic illness or even death.” (July 11) Flying Spur Added To NSW BOBS List Multiple Gr1 winner Flying Spur (by Danehill) is the latest big name stallion to be paid-up for the NSW BOBS list. “It is understood the sire contribution fee for Flying Spur has been paid by a syndicate described as ‘keen racing people’, making his nominated progeny eligible for bonuses of up to $20,000 for winning races in NSW,” reported aapracingandsports.com.au. Flying Spur (among the first Australian stallions to stand in England under reverse shuttle arrangements) has stakes-winning progeny including Spurred On, She's Purring, Oomph, Make Me A Miracle, French Braids, Juanmo, All Time High, Spurcent, Arena Valadora, Blur & Flying Babe. (July 11) Bentley Slams Rebel Queensland ‘Impact Study’ Queensland Racing chairman Bob Bentley has slammed an “economic & social impact study” prepared for a group of disgruntled race clubs in south-east Queensland as “totally unrepresentative of the industry in this State.” Bentley said the report (undertaken by The Centre For Australian Financial Institutions at the University Of Southern Queensland) had delivered the result that Lockyer, Esk, Kilcoy, Beaudesert, Dalby & Warwick Race Clubs would have expected. Bentley declared: “It’s not hard to discredit when the study surveyed 182, or 1%, of the 24,000 people employed in racing in Queensland. The number of trainers surveyed represented less than 7% of the total in the State.” Bentley noted that when the Board of Queensland Racing made the decision to restructure, it did so “with a view to the entire racing industry, not just small pockets in the south-east. When making comparisons for economic & social impact purposes, one would at least expect those conducting the survey to get their facts right. Unfortunately that was not the case. There has been no reduction in TAB race meetings, but rather a redistribution to strengthen racing in regional centres, such as Rockhampton, Townsville & Mackay. This has been designed to ensure that the industry maximises TAB wagering outcomes for the benefit of the whole racing industry in Queensland. Contrary to what the study suggests, in terms of owners & prize-money, there has been no reduction in prize-money available for owners across the State.” (July 11) NZ Announces Less Protest Time NZ jockeys & trainers “have been advised of a new rule relating to the lodging of protests at race meetings throughout the country,” reported aapracingandsports.com.au. In the past a protest could be lodged up to 2 minutes after riders had weighed-in. But "from today . . . an indication of a protest must be given at the scales before the weigh-in has been completed," it was noted in the Wanganui judicial report. (July 11) UK Tattersalls 1: Record Price For 2YO Clifden Bedfordshire bloodstock agent David Metcalfe (on behalf of Sheikh Mohammed's son Sheikh Rashid) paid top price of 170,000 guineas (A$444,000) for Gr3 winning colt Clifden at Day-3 of the Tattersalls July auction overnight, setting a new record for a 2YO at the sale. After Clifden (Gold Away-Romora, by Sillery) won the Premio Primi Passi at San Siro in Milan on June 22, he received a Timeform rating of 104, making him currently equal 5th highest rated 2YO in Britain; overall he has 3 wins & 2 placings in 5 starts. Clifden was originally purchased for the equivalent of just A$20,000 by R.Frisby Bloodstock at the 2002 Doncaster September yearling sale. (July 11) UK Tattersalls 2: Record Average At July Sale The 3-day Tattersalls July Sale finished with a flourish, setting a new record average & the 2nd highest turnover in its history. Day-3 saw 70 lots sold for 820,200 guineas (at an average 11,717 guineas & median 7,250 guineas). This brought the full 3-day totals to 287 lots sold for 3,238,800 guineas (A$8.46 million): with the average rising 3% to a new record 11,285 guineas & a median 6,000 guineas (the same as last year). (July 11) UK Tattersalls 3: High Clearance Rate At the conclusion of the 2003 Tattersalls July Sale, chairman Edmond Mahony summed up: “We have seen a truly cosmopolitan cast of buyers at Park Paddocks this week, which has produced a record average & turnover 2nd only to last year’s Sale which was significantly larger. The crucial element has been the clearance rate. Very few horses have failed to find buyers, which is a massive endorsement of the enduring popularity of this sale. Quality consignments from so many of the major owner-breeders, including Cheveley Park Stud, Darley, Juddmonte, Gainsborough Stud Management & Shadwell Estates have made a huge contribution to the continued development of the July Sale & it is great to see such support rewarded.” (July 11) JRHA Epilogue 1: Sunday Silence Leaves Massive Hole Sunday Silence will certainly be missed at next year’s Japan Racing Horse Association Select Foal Sale in Hokkaido. Foals from the 8-time champion sire’s last crop accounted for a massive 30% of this week’s 2-day auction aggregate: in cold cash, that’s ¥2.091 billion (A$26.6 million) of the total receipts of ¥7.073 billion (A$90.4 million), a figure which smashed the previous record set in 2000 by 17% & was 30% higher than last year. In all, 20 foals (15 colts & 5 fillies) by Sunday Silence brought an average price of ¥104.55 million (A$1.33 million); the sale-topper was the ¥330 million ($4.2 million) colt out of Australian Oaks runner-up Seto Flowerian, purchased by Fusaro Sekiguchi. However, 8 of the 20 sold for ¥100 million (A$1.27 million) or more: “a feat it is hard to imagine any individual sire in Japan emulating next year,” noted racingpost.co.uk. JRHA vice-chairman Teruya Yoshida summed up: “We’re very, very happy. I think there is no other sale which can achieve this level of trade in 2 days. In those terms, I think this is the best sale in the world.” (July 11) JRHA Epilogue 2: Will Korofune & French Deputy Fill Gap? In light of the extraordinary figures above, “perhaps the weightiest question for the JRHA now is who will replace Sunday Silence?” noted racingpost.co.uk. “If no-one is able to fill the gap, the sale theoretically could suffer declines of up to 30% next year – all other factors remaining equal.” However “the Yoshida family is nothing if not forward-thinking. They thought enough of dual Gr1 winner Korofune to go back to the US to buy his sire French Deputy 3 years ago. Now, both father & son stand at Shadai Stallion Station & they are clearly stamping their foals.” For example, Harry Sweeney of Paca Paca Farms thinks the pair have a good chance to “jump through the window of opportunity left open by Sunday Silence’s loss”; he commented: “French Deputy is a very good sire. He gets very good-looking horses. And Korofune was brilliant, just brilliant. I’ve been really impressed by his foals (the 1st crop were born this year). I certainly wouldn’t be suprised at all if Korofune & French Deputy made it.” (July 11) JRHA Epilogue 3: Hot Tip For Agnes Tachyon Meanwhile Teruya Yoshida focused his praise on sons of Sunday Silence standing at Shadai. He told racingpost.co.uk: “Crops by sons of Sunday Silence sold very well. A good example is Agnes Tachyon. I sold 5 foals by Agnes Tachyon, & for almost all of them, the sales price was double the reserve I set. Additionally, the conformation of Agnes Tachyon’s off-spring is more attractive than that of Sunday Silence’s foals. Sunday Silence foals are light-bodied, leggy & skinny. But many of Agnes Tachyon’s have a big haunch. That’s more attractive for buyers. So prior to the sale, I was a little worried about the future of it. But now, I’m optimistic.” (July 11) Marciano Retires & Will Stand In Maryland Win More Stable’s 3-time stakes winner Marciano (7th behind Point Given in the 2001 Gr1 Preakness Stakes) has been retired & will stand at Conowingo Lake Farm in Maryland in 2004, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 5YO son of Two Punch “sustained a career-ending injury in March while preparing for the 2003 season”. Marciano retires with 7 wins in 25 starts: he memorably closed his 2YO season with 3-straight victories by a combined 12.75 lengths (including a 6.25-length victory in the Ambernash Stakes in December 2000 at Laurel); he also won the 2001 editions of the Herat Stakes & Federico Tesio Stakes. Bred in Virginia by Stoney Lane Farm, Marciano is 1 of 4 winners out of Magesterial mare Pardonable. (July 11) US Champion Wayward Lass Dies Wayward Lass (US champion 3YO filly of 1981) has died “of an apparent heart attack” at Contemporary Stallions in New York aged 25, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. She won 9 races (including 6 stakes) in 25 career starts; during her championship season, she won 7 of 13 starts, including the Gr1 Mother Goose Stakes & Gr1 Coaching Club American Oaks (2/3 of the New York Filly Triple Crown). Bred in Florida by US Hall-Of-Fame trainer Horatio Luro, Wayward Lass retired following her 3YO season & in 1983 she sold in foal to Noble Nashua for US$2.35 million at the Keeneland November breeding stock sale. At the time of her death, Wayward Lass was 45 days in foal to City Zip (who stands at Contemporary Stallions). She was by Hail The Pirates out of unraced Third Martini mare Young Mistress & produced 15 foals (with 12 winners from 14 starters). (July 11) 1st Winner For US Freshman Sire Crafty Friend US freshman sire Crafty Friend recorded his 1st winner when his 2YO colt Longgonetrevorsean won on debut over 5 furlongs at Hollywood Park, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Crafty Friend, a multiple Gr2 winner between 1995-1999, has sired 4 starters & 82 foals in his 1st crop of racing age; he also has 87 yearlings. The 10-year-old son of Crafty Prospector (out of winning stakes-placed Princely Native mare Companionship) stands at Hopewell Farm in Kentucky. A 5-time stakes winner, Crafty Friend won the Gr2 Bel Air Handicap in 1997 at Hollywood Park, & both the Gr2 Forego Handicap at Saratoga Race Course & Gr2 Tom Fool Handicap at Belmont Park in 1999. Bred in Kentucky by Foxfield, Crafty Friend won 8 of 35 starts overall & earned US$967,700. (July 11) 1st Stakes Winner For Sire Princely Heir Princely Heir (who stands at Abbeyleix Stud) recorded his 1st stakes winner when his 1st-crop son Romancero landed the Listed Premio Giuseppe de Montel at San Siro in Milan, reported racingpost.co.uk. Romancero sold for 17,000 guineas at the 2002 St Leger Yearling Sale. (July 11) 1st Stakes Winner For French Sire Starborough French-based sire Starborough (who stands at Haras de la Reboursiere et de Montaigu) recorded his 1st stakes winner when 3YO Star Valley landed the Prix de Saint-Patrick at Deauvillle, reported racingpost.co.uk. Star Valley had previously been Listed-placed several times & is 1 of 4 3YO stakes performers in Europe for her sire. (July 11) Numerous Returns To Argentina Gr3 winner Numerous will shuttle to Argentina to stand his 8th consecutive season at Juan Carlos Bago’s Haras Firmamento (Argentina’s leading breeder for the past 3 seasons), reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Numerous, who stands the Northern Hemisphere season at France’s Haras du Quesnay in Deauville, is scheduled to arrive in Argentina “in the next few days”. With 5 crops of racing age, Numerous has sired 14 group winners & 3 champions (including Miss Terrible, Mr Mat & Miss Carry). The 12-year-old son of Mr Prospector is out of multiple graded stakes winner Number & is a full brother to Gr1 winner & sire Jade Robbery, & Gr3 winner Chequer; notable members of the immediate family include leading sires Sadler’s Wells & Nureyev, & leading broodmare sire Thatch. (July 11) 1st Stakes Winner For Argentine Sire Capo d’Oro Argentine-based stallion Capo d´Oro recorded his 1st stakes winner when Barbarita d'Oro won the Clásico Propietarios-Copa UPAC, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. A ten-year-old son of Capo Maximo, Capo d'Oro won 14 races in 25 career starts, including the 1997 Gr1 Gran Premio Maipu at Palermo & Gr1 Gran Premio Suipacha at San Isidro en route to being named Argentina’s champion sprinter. Capo d'Oro (who stands at Haras Güer Aike) produced just 5 foals in his 1st crop, including Barbarita d’Oro & winner First d’Oro. Capo d'Oro is out of unraced Kasteel mare Pala D'Oro, who also produced Gr2 winners Güer d'Oro & Aike D'Oro (dam of Gr1-placed stakes winner Mixto d'Oro). (July 11) US Jockey Jose Flores Lands 3,000th Winner US-based rider Jose Flores scored the 3,000th win of his career when he piloted Erronous to a front-running triumph at Philadelphia Park, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Flores declared: "When I turned for home with the lead I had, I just kept saying to myself: ‘Where’s the line? Where’s the line? It’s really a tremendous feeling of accomplishment.” Flores, 42, began his career in his native Peru before moving to the US in 1987. (July 11) Ontario Tracks Begin Testing EPO Anti-Bodies Beginning on November 1, all Ontario racetracks (including Woodbine & Fort Erie) will begin testing runners for “anti-bodies that form when the illegal drug eyrthropoietin (EPO) is present in horses’ systems.” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Canada’s Ontario Racing Commission decided to begin testing nearly a year to the day after it announced a ban on EPO, which the Association Of Racing Commissioners International lists as a Class 2 drug, “meaning it has the ability to affect performance with no therapeutic purpose”. ORC executive director Jean Major commented: "This is the next logical step for us to take. We want to know the scope of the problem, so this will be an evolving process." (July 11) Farrier Focus After Bizarre ‘Betting Patterns’ Friday Odd Spot 1: First came this intriguing report: A blacksmith who shoes horses for British trainer Alan Berry has been interviewed by the UK Jockey Club “as part of its investigation into bizarre betting patterns surrounding the running of Hillside Girl after she pulled up lame at Carlisle last month.” Berry confirmed “everybody in the yard”, including 32-year-old farrier Steve O’Sullivan & himself, had been interviewed during an “early morning visit” to his stable. Racingpost.co.uk reported O’Sullivan “is a betting exchange enthusiast who holds accounts with Betfair & Sporting Options, & appears to enjoy both backing & laying horses.” Following her defeat on June 15, the Berry-trained Hillside Girl “became the subject of a case referred by the racecourse stewards for further investigation after they learnt the juvenile had drifted dramatically in betting prior to being pulled up by apprentice Paul Bradley approaching halfway in the 5-furlong stakes. Friendless in the betting, her odds lengthened from 7-2 to 6-1 in the betting ring, & from odds-on to a remarkable 21-1 with Betfair.” Jockey Club public relations director John Maxse commented: “Ever since the referral in June of Hillside Girl, the matter has been under active investigation by the security department. It has identified & followed-up a number of leads &, as a result, conducted a number of interviews. This is an on-going & active investigation, but it may be some time before it is concluded.” (July 11) Blacksmith Lost £100,000 On Betting Exchanges Friday Odd Spot 2: Then came yesterday’s headline-hogging update: Steve O’Sullivan, “the blacksmith at the centre of UK Jockey Club investigations into unusual betting patterns in a race at Carlisle in June, is believed to have lost more than £100,000 on a single race a week earlier,” revealed racingpost.co.uk. The victory by Nearly Before Time (also ridden by Paul Bradley) at Wolverhampton “proved horrendously expensive for O’Sullivan, whose betting exchange plays went disastrously awry as he laid the 14-1 winner. The shock result is understood to have cost the farrier between £100,000 & £120,000 on betting exchanges, suggesting his accounts held at least that much as a balance.” The juveniles Nearly Before Time & Hillside Girl (who was beaten amid controversial circumstances in the race at Carlisle) were both trained by Alan Berry. Asked about the Nearly Before Time reverse, O’Sullivan replied: "No comment." Watch this space! (July 11) Choisir Races For Multi-Million Sale Bonus Australian raider Choisir will be running for “more than just Gr1 glory", “more than the trifling £245,000 (A$607,000) in prize-money” & “more than the bragging rights that come with bashing the poms in their own backyard” in the Gr1 July Cup (6 furlongs) at Newmarket in England today," reported thoroughbredinternet.com. It declared overnight that it “has it on good authority” the 3YO son of Danehill Dancer, “who left Royal Ascot race fans bewildered following 2 Group wins in 5 days, is on the verge of earning his connections a multi-million dollar windfall from a well-known European breeding organisation with Australian ties. Only catch is the burly chestnut, with the missing front teeth, has to win the July Cup. Any other finishing position & the deal, which is strongly rumoured to be worth more than A$10 million, is off.” Exactly where Choisir will retire to when he finishes racing “we cannot say, but our mole is adamant that, if he blazes past the July-Course lollipop in 1st place, it will be his last run for trainer Paul Perry. Breeding sheds in 2 hemispheres await.” (July 10) NZ-Owned Zabeel Filly Wins In UK Meanwhile NZ-owned & bred filly Devant, a 3YO daughter of Cambridge Stud’s champion stallion Zabeel, has won her 3rd race in 6 starts in England with victory over 7 furlongs at Newmarket, reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. A half-sister to Listed Murray Bridge Cup winner Mustaagel (by Pentire), Devant was bred by a Rich Hill Stud-based syndicate of high-profile NZ lawyers (Chief Justice Sian Elias, her husband Hugh Fletcher, QC Alan Galbraith & Bill Wilson) who sent their stakes-winning mare Frenetic (by Truly Vain) to Zabeel to northern hemisphere time “with a specific plan to race her in Europe.” Devant was duly foaled on 4 February 2000 at Rich Hill & “received her early education with Paul O’Sullivan in NZ before being shipped to England,” noted racenet.com.au. Frenetic was a top-class mare in NZ, winning 10 of her 22 starts (including the Gr2 AuRC Bluebird Foods Trophy Handicap, Gr3 Waikato RC Highview Stakes & Gr3 AuRC Royal Stakes, plus a 3rd in the Gr1 WRC Thorndon Mile); she is a half-sister to Fun On The Run, winner of 18 races (including the Gr1 WRC Jarden Morgan Mile & 13 stakes races). Rich Hill Stud spokesman Murray Gregory declared last night: “It wasn’t as big as Choisir, but she (Devant) is very much on the up.” (July 10) UK Tattersalls Day-2: Bahri Filly Top Price Epsom’s Loretta Lodge Stables trainer Terry Mills paid top price of 110,000 guineas (US$180,000) overnight for 3YO filly Littleton Arwen (Bahri-Jathibiyah by Nureyev) on Day-2 at the UK Tattersalls July Sale. The filly (recently 2nd in the Listed Eternal Stakes at Warwick) is from the family of Gr1 winners Ensconse, Glint Of Gold & Diamond Shoal. Bloodstock agent James Delahooke paid the 2nd top price when he went to 95,000 guineas for 3YO colt Barney McAll (by Grand Lodge), a winner twice this year at Windsor & Haydock. (July 10) UK Tattersalls Day-2: Gross & Average Fall In all, 110 horses sold on Day-2 at the UK Tattersalls Sale for a gross 1,214,100 guineas (US$2,085,708), with an average 11,037 guineas (US$18,961) & a median 6,500 guineas (US$11,166); compared to a year ago (when 128 horses were sold) the gross was down 17.8% & average down 4.4% (the median remained the same). This year's clearance rate was 92%. (July 10) Dye Wins At Warwick Farm HK-based former Sydney jockey Shane Dye took his only race ride while in Australia (on his annual break from HK racing) aboard the Peter Staunton-trained Oh She Said “as a favour for a mate” at Warwick Farm yesterday – and duly collected the winner’s prize on the 13-2 pop. On return to scale, Dye “gave a flourish of the whip to the vocal crowd as if returning on a Group winner - and they loved it,” reported racenet.com.au. Dye declared: "I had a great run & got all the breaks." But enthusiastic owner Joe Manning interrupted: "No. You made all the breaks. It was a brilliant ride." (July 10) Dye Outlines Future Riding Plans Shane Dye also outlined his short & longer-term riding plans. "I haven't ridden for a few weeks & it's amazing that you can get out of condition so fast!” he told racenet.com.au. "I'm off to New Zealand now to see my family for a couple of weeks & then I hope to be able to pick up a few rides in Sydney towards the end of July. I'm riding at the Shergar Cup meeting in England on August 8th & I really need to get some rides in before hand to get my fitness edge back." Dye added he is not looking at returning to ride permanently in Australia just yet: "I will do one day. I love riding in Australia, particularly at carnival times, & one day I will come back. It may be 5 years away, it might be 10 years. I don't know. It's a very difficult place to live, Hong Kong, but you are riding with the very best in the world. I thought it might take me a few years to get really established. But then I came 5th in the premiership the 1st year & then 2nd the last 2 years. So it has happened a bit quicker than I thought.” (July 10) Dye Praises HK Jockey Rival And assessing the ability of other leading HK jockeys, Shane Dye told racenet.com.au: "Douglas Whyte, who won the premiership the last 2 years, is the best rider I have ever seen. He's a genius of a rider. He can be in gate 14 & be sitting 3-back 1-off the fence. He's not the strongest of finishers, which is unusual in the South Africans, but he always has his horse balanced & travelling. They all relax for him & he never ever panics. He's an unbelievable rider.” (July 10) Riverdene Offers Admire Mambo Shares & Bonus Riverdene Stud at Wagga Wagga in southern NSW has added an import to its roster: Admire Mambo (Kingmambo-Fortunate Facts) is a Japanese Gr2 winner over 1600m & boasts a strong Black Type family for 4 generations (including 1986 Broodmare-Of-The-Year Too Bald). Admire Mambo was the highest stakes earning 2YO by Kingmambo. A small number of shares are available at $7,700 each & carry a ‘bonus’ nomination for the 1st 3 years, thus permitting shareholders to send 6 mares during those seasons. (July 10) Trainer Nominates International Sires For BOBS Hawkesbury trainer Bernie Kelly & a syndicate of 6 owners (including Sydney breeder Les Tamassey) have “taken the bull by the horns by dipping into their own pockets to pay up” for nomination into NSW BOBS for internationally-owned former Coolmore shuttle stallions Honour And Glory & Foxhound. Kelly told aapracingandsports.com.au: “We hoped somebody else would nominate the stallions, but that didn’t happen. So after discussion & research between Les & my wife Anne, we decided to give it a go. It’s a calculated gamble, but that’s racing isn’t it?” The syndicate hopes its bold move will pay dividends when “3 or 4” horses it owns sired by the stallions reach the racetrack under Kelly’s care later this year. Meanwhile their initiative makes all rising 2YOs & 3YOs sired by Honour And Glory now eligible to be nominated by their owners, while the rising 2YO crop of Foxhound can also be paid up by their owners for BOBS. And though the syndicate hopes to recoup its investment from bonuses directly earned by its own horses, the “Kelly Gang” also stands to earn 12.5% of any BOBS bonus earned by horses sired by Honour And Glory & Foxhound. Kelly added: “Racehorse nominations for BOBS close on August 1. If owners of Honour And Glory & Foxhound rising 2YOs & 3YOs miss that deadline, they will have to pay a late entry fee of $5,500 to be eligible for the scheme, instead of the normal $660 fee. I hope there are plenty of owners out there, with horses by these sires, who now want to take advantage of this move, & make their horses eligible to earn BOBS bonuses of between $5-20,000 on all Metropolitan, Provincial & Country 2YO & 3YO races. BOBS is a great scheme for smaller owners & gives them a chance to make a dollar.” (July 10) Willowbend’s New Star Monashee Mountain About 4 years back Queensland's Willowbend Stud landed on its feet when studmaster David Lucas secured a nicely bred, but unproven, stallion named Clang; 2 major Gr1 winners later & the 'book full' shingle swings over his barn this year. Now Lucas may have done it again: this time with Coolmore shuttler Monashee Mountain. Since negotiating to stand Monashee Mountain, the well-bred son of Danzig's immediate family has gone through the roof. "I love this horse & am not surprised to see his family, especially his dam, do so well," declared Lucas. Monashee Mountain won 4 of his only 7 starts (including a Gr3 as a 2YO & another Gr3 as a 3YO in Ireland, both over 7 furlongs); & his dam is former Champion Gr1 winner Prospector's Delight (by Mr Prospector) who can now be mentioned in the same breath as Eight Carat, Height Of Fashion & Fall Aspen. Monashee Mountain's half-siblings include: Tomisue's Delight (by A.P.Indy) who notched 2 Gr1 wins & 4 Gr1 placings; Delta Music (by Dixieland Band) who was a Listed winner & Gr3 placed; Rock Slide (by A.P.Indy) who was also a Listed winner & Gr3 placed; & the world's current leading older horse ‘miler’ Mineshaft (by A.P.Indy) who is a Gr1 mile winner, Gr2 winner, Gr1 place-getter & earner of US$1.8 million. "Perhaps if he throws a Golden Slipper winner, I'll have my hands full hanging on to him. But right now I just love having him here," reiterated Lucas. Monashee Mountain stands for $7,150 this year & Lucas confirmed he will “do deals for broodmare owners who bring multiple mares” to him. (July 10) Zephyr’s Tornado Breeds Speed At Stormberg A Victorian star is emerging in Zephyr Beat, who scored his 4th win on the trot at Sandown's Lakeside track in Melbourne yesterday. He led all the way to win the 1400m dash for 3YOs by nearly 3 lengths, taking his earnings to $51,000. He's by largely unknown stallion Zephyr's Tornado (Zephyr Bay-Libertine Lady), who was unraced due to injury & stands at Stormberg Stud near Heathcote in rural Victoria under the watchful eye of studmaster Carol Stuart. The hulking chestnut giant is officially 16.3hh (but looks closer to 17hh) & his dam is by Vain, while his grand dam is by Todman. He boasts such recent speedsters as Soho Square (multiple Gr1 winner) & Innovation Girl (multiple Group winner) in his immediate pedigree. Zephyr Beat is part-owned by fellow Victorian studmasters Christine & Terry Nevill, who stand on debut this year Tuscanos (Encosta de Lago-Palace Fire) at their Hollylodge Thoroughbreds farm at Avenel in Victoria. (July 10) Encouraging Start For Afleetaffair Australian breeders who support the Mr Prospector line know there’s a dearth of local sire representatives of his Gr1-winning son Afleet. In fact, there are just 2 choices (both in Queensland): Glenlogan Park's Blu Tusmani (sire of boom colt Murphy's Blu Boy); & Afleetaffair, standing at Hazelwood Stud at Southbrook. Winner of the Gr3 San Vincente Stakes at Santa Anita in California, Afleetaffair's small 1st Australian crop has already yielded 3 individual 2YO winners & a number of place-getters. He is 1 of 5 stakes performers out of Adarling (an unraced Alleged half-sister to multiple stakes performer Freedom Fleet). (July 10) Visiting HK Apprentice Lands Treble Visiting HK apprentice jockey Franky Tsui had 5 rides for 3 winners & 2 2nds at Cunnamulla Racecourse in western Queensland, reported racenet.com.au. Tsui is part of the Hong Kong Jockey Club's scheme for sending its young apprentices abroad to further develop their riding skills. (July 10) Randwick Stud & Stallion Day Sires The 1st annual Stud & Stallion Day on Sunday 20 July at the Randwick Betting Auditorium will present broodmare owners with a diverse collection of high class stallions, especially now that many of the Hunter Valley’s leading stud farms will be represented: including global giants Coolmore, Darley & Vinery whose combined 34 stallions range in service fee from $8,250 for Gr1 winning juvenile Lujain all the way up to 1st season superstar Rock Of Gibraltar at $132,000. In addition: Arrowfield Stud’s selection of 10 stallions offers a great mix of international bloodlines combined with leading Aussie bred sires such as Flying Spur ($44,000), Danzero ($26,400) & Redoute’s Choice ($33,000). And Ingham-owned Woodlands Stud roster for 2003 features 10 stallions to suit all budgets, from champion juvenile Dracula at $8,250 to the mighty Octagonal at $55,000. Emirates Park Stud will stand 9 sires this season, split between the Murrurundi home base in the Hunter & their Victorian property at Digger’s Rest; Secret Savings tops their list at $27,500 while under-rated Dexter offers great value at $3,300. Other major farms represented include: Baerami Thoroughbreds (home to Honours List , Ishiguru & introducing Ethereal’s sire Rhythm); Wagga Wagga-based Riverdene Stud (home to 7 stallions including prolific winner-getter Marwina); & Inverness Stud (launching the stud career of champion 3YO Universal Prince). Victorian breeders will also have a strong presence via leading farms Eliza Park & Chatswood Stud; the pair account for 15 stallions, highlighted by 1st-timers Bel Esprit ($18,150), Grass Wonder ($13,750), Invincible Spirit ($13,200), Delago Brom ($8,800) & Planchet ($8,250). (July 10) Queensland Thoroughbred Stallion Expo Meanwhile Queensland Owners & Breeders have announced another feature & new addition to the 2003 Queensland Thoroughbred Stallion Expo on the same Sunday (July 20) at the Magic Millions Sales complex on the Gold Coast. An auction of stallion service nominations will immediately follow the parade of stallions, in some cases offering the opportunity to send a mare to stallions which have already posted ‘closed books’ or capped books that are nearly full. For example, it provides the only chance to book into star sprinter Falvelon this season. Services to be offered at auction are for the following stallions: Falvelon, Shot Of Thunder, Blu Tusmani & Kbenjar from Glenlogan Park Stud. Taimazov, Easy Rocking & Brave Hawk from Wattlebrae Stud. Kenfair & Zaha from Clear Mountain Stud. Clang from Willowbend Stud. Dodge from Raheen Stud. Sequalo from Lyndhurst Stud. Seven Figures from Gainsborough Lodge. Knowledge from Glen Avon Lodge. Natural Act from Burwood Stud. (July 10) NZ South Island Clubs Merge Canterbury Jockey Club chairman Peter Cordner yesterday described the landmark decision to “embrace an effective merger with 4 other clubs in the region” as “a new era for racing in Canterbury”, reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. The North Canterbury Racing, Amberley Racing, Hororata Racing & Riccarton Turf Clubs had all previously voted to proceed with the proposal, which has now been adopted by the Canterbury Jockey Club membership at a Special General Meeting. The new Club structure will retain the Canterbury Jockey Club name; however “operational racing within the region is likely to embrace the term Canterbury Racing”. The new structure will also comprise a Board of 15 elected representatives: 11 voted by the city membership, with 1 appointed from each of the “Wards” representing the previous 4 Country clubs. (July 10) Vance & Mathews Training Partnerships Former top NZ jockey Bob Vance will join his wife Jenny in a training partnership from August 1, reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. The Vance partnership will continue to train from Takanini. And Lorraine Mathews is also joining the ranks of licensed trainers from the start of the new season: she will join husband Howie Mathews training from their Otaki property. (July 10) More Staying Stakes For Casual Lies NZ’s Windsor Park Stud stallion Casual Lies “has once again proved himself the king of 2400m stakes winners in Australasia,” reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. Romeo George’s victory in the Winter Cup at Rosehill Gardens in Sydney (at his 1st attempt over 2400m) represented the 6th stakes win in Australasia this season by progeny of Casual Lies. With 4 stakes wins in Australia, Casual Lies is 2nd leading NZ-based sire of stakes winners across the Tasman (behind Zabeel) this season: the others have been Maguire (Gr2 P J O’Shea Stakes), Silent Impact (Gr3 Gosford Cup) & Matter Of Honour (Listed Chester Manifold Stakes). In addition Casual Lies has produced NZ stakes winners Silky Red Boxer (Gr3 Sunline Stakes) & No Fibs (Listed Forest Lake Gardens). Meanwhile the outstanding line-up of Casual Lies 2400m winners includes Gr1 AJC Oaks winner Coco Cobanna & Gr1 NZ Derby winner So Casual. And he has recorded another Gr1 staying feature winner with last year’s Auckland Cup winner Maguire. Trained by Choisir’s mentor Paul Perry, Romeo George is owned by an Australasian syndicate that includes prominent NZ racing identity Gordon Calder & Newcastle businessman Steve Marshall. Calder, who put the syndicate together to buy Romeo George 2 years ago, explained: “I identified the horse as one who would develop into a good staying type suited to Australian racing conditions. It is certainly not easy to find a source of staying horses these days, but in Casual Lies you have a sire who has found his niche as a producer of top-class stayers.” Calder purchased Romeo George for the syndicate after he won his 1st race (over 1400m) as a 4YO for Taranaki breeders Graeme & Gwenda Hewson. His sire Casual Lies now has 11 stakes winners, of which nearly 30% have been Gr1 winners. (July 10) Ustinov Starts Stud Career Victorian Dennis Marks visited NZ’s Waikato district last weekend “to attend the launch of his stallion Ustinov at Brighthill Farm,” reported aapracingandsports.com.au. Ustinov will serve his 1st band of broodmares this spring at NZ$8,000 (A$7,113). Back in 1991 Marks purchased the 2-win filly (trained at Matamata by Dave & Paul O'Sullivan) who turned into Australian Horse-Of-The-Year Let's Elope (whose 7 major wins in the 1991-92 season included the Caulfield Cup, MacKinnon Stakes, Melbourne Cup & Australian Cup). Let's Elope was subsequently mated with Danzig, Storm Cat, Danehill & Zabeel, while her 3rd mating with American stallion Seeking The Gold (bred to Southern Hemisphere time) produced Ustinov, who beat Viking Ruler & Pure Theatre to win the Gr2 2001 AAMI Vase at Moonee Valley (as well as record 3 Gr1 placings: 2nd in the Champagne Stakes behind Viscount as a 2YO; 2nd in the Caulfield Guineas behind Lonhro as a 3YO; & 3rd in the Cadbury Guineas behind Dash For Cash & Royal Code later the same season). He summed up his NZ visit: "I feel very proud to bring back a son of a champion mare I first bought from here. He's a good type. His race performance was tops & his pedigree is what all breeders should be looking for, being by 1 of the top sons of Mr Prospector. It's very emotional & very exciting." (July 10) Uruguay’s Haras Don Alfredo Enjoys Strong Sale The recent reopening of Hipódromo Nacional de Maroñas racetrack helped the annual sale at Haras Don Alfredo (among Uruguay’s most important stud farms), reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 30 foals offered in the catalogue sold for US$250,200, with an average US$8,340. The sale topper was Ben Ritz (a 2YO son of Argentine stallion Ritz out of Harken mare Honda) purchased for US$18,000 by Pedro Hernandez. Haras Don Alfredo, Uruguay’s leading breeder for the past 2 seasons, is home to: proven stallions Ritz (by Ringaro) & Robin des Pins (by Nureyev); & Asidero (Argentina’s 1999 Horse-Of-The-Year) who will enter stud this season. (July 10) Kentucky Equine Abortions Continue Decline The number of equine abortions in Kentucky for Januaruy-June 2003 has been officially confirmed as “a marked decline from the total of a year ago in the final report released by the University Of Kentucky’s Livestock Disease Diagnostic Center,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The University had been monitoring numbers in the wake of the disastrous effects of Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome in Kentucky in recent breeding seasons. A total 426 abortions were reported from 30 December 2002-28 June 2003, down from 823 during the same period last year. In recent months: March had 100 abortions reported, 25 fewer than in 2002; April’s total dropped from 210 last year to 61 this season; just 29 abortions were reported in May compared with 201 a year earlier; & June had just 3 abortions reported, down from 18 in 2002. (July 10) 1st Winner For US Freshman Sire Two Smart US freshman sire Two Smart recorded his 1st winner with his 1st starter when 2YO filly What Do I Do won over 5.5 furlongs at Colonial Downs, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Two Smart (who has 6 2YO foals) stands at Legacy Farm in Virginia. The 9YO son of Two Punch won 3 stakes races (the Sir Barton, Woodlawn & Deputed Testamony Stakes) in 1997 at Pimlico Race Course for owner Larry Johnson; overall he won 6 of 7 career starts in his only racing season. Out of winning Smarten mare Dancing Smart, Two Smart is a half-brother to stakes winner Attainable & 4 other winners. (July 10) Flying Victor To Stand At Victory Rose California stallion & Gr3 stakes winner Flying Victor will move from Blooming Hills Farm to stand the 2004 season at Ellen Jackson’s Victory Rose Thoroughbreds, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. An 18-year-old son of Flying Paster out of Sir Ivor mare Elegant Victress, Flying Victor has 12 crops of racing age for 121 winners (including 6 stakes-winners) from 182 starters who’ve earned US$5,495,285 prize-money. His best progeny include Flying In The Lane, who won 8 of 38 career starts (including 5 stakes victories & 11 stakes placings). During his own career, Flying Victor won 2 of 7 starts (including the 1987 Gr3 California Juvenile Stakes at Bay Meadows Race Course). He is a full brother to multiple stakes winner & leading Canadian sire Vying Victor & a half-brother to 2002 Gr2 True North Breeders’ Cup & Gr3 Count Fleet Sprint Handicap winner Explicit & to stakes winner & sire Sharp Victor. (July 10) US Wagering Up In 2nd Quarter Wagering in North America (US & Canada) during the 2nd quarter of the year increased 2.52% (to US$4,121,245,999) over the corresponding period in 2002, reported bloodhorse.com. NTRA commissioner Tim Smith commented: "Given that some areas of the country experienced inclement spring weather, a 2.5% growth in pari-mutuel wagering indicates a strong rebound after a winter that produced a number of race day cancellations." (July 10) 1st Winner For Irish Sire Russian Revival Top class 6-7 furlong performer Russian Revival recorded his 1st British/Irish winner when 2YO Beauty Of Dreams won at Beverley, reported racingpost.co.uk. Russian Revival (by Nureyev) stood at Killarkin Stud in Ireland for 1 season before owner Gainsborough moved him to South Africa, where he has his 1st yearlings. (July 10) Hesmonds Retires Galaxie Dust Hesmonds Stud has retired “1 of its most successful mares Galaxie Dust,” reported racingpost.co.uk. The 21-year-old daughter of Blushing Groom (who foaled a colt from the 1st crop of Golden Snake this spring) is dam of Bulaxie (winner of the Gr3 Fred Darling Stakes), Dust Dancer (winner of the Gr3 Prix de la Nonette) & smart colt Zimzalabim, as well as grand-dam of Claxon (winner of the Gr2 Premio Lydia Tesio). (July 10) Stevens May Quit Saddle For Movies Thursday Odd Spot: US Hall-Of-Fame jockey Gary Stevens “faces a choice that involves the risk of changing his life drastically: a decision that could end his career in the saddle in favor of one in front of cameras as an actor,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Following his starring role as legendary US rider George ‘The Iceman’ Woolf in the movie Seabiscuit (released across America later this month), Stevens has “found himself in the vortex of a celebrity whirlwind”. The August issue of Vanity Fair features him in a photograph sitting “on a horse, facing the tail, with his shirt off in what he described as a ‘flirtatious pose’." And for the next 3 days Stevens is away from the track “participating in a press junket promoting Seabiscuit, including appearances on the Entertainment Tonight & Extra! television shows. And he will be able to claim for nearly a year that he is one of People magazine’s 50 Most Beautiful People.” Stevens “as he weighed whether to give up riding for acting” summed up: "I’m going to have to make a decision here shortly. The racing is going unbelievable for me, but I can’t focus 100% on riding if things continue like they have for the past 3 weeks." Indeed Stevens signed with International Creative Management talent agency (which represents Mel Gibson, Julia Roberts & Denzel Washington) a month ago & hired a theatrical attorney, publicist & manager, admitting: "I’m enjoying it. Who wouldn’t at age 40? I’m going to give it my best shot & see what comes of it. I’m having a blast. I’m having the time of my life." (July 10) Giant’s Causeway Colt Tops Japan Sale Day-2 Fusao Sekiguchi (who raced US Gr1 Kentucky Derby winner Fusaichi Pegasus) purchased a colt by Giant’s Causeway out of California-bred Avenue Of Flags mare Red Velvet (a half-sister to multiple Gr1 winner General Challenge) for ¥160 million (US$1,353,638) to top Day-2 of the Japan Racing Horse Association’s Select Foal Sale at Hokkaido’s Northern Horse Park yesterday, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Red Velvet (placed in 2 stakes races) is also a half-sister to Gr1 winner Notable Career & is out of Smarten mare Excellent Lady (a half-sister to leading sire Southern Halo). Sekiguchi told bloodhorse.com: ''I hadn't intended to buy the colt, but when I saw him today, I liked him & wanted him. I've always really liked his sire.” The colt was 1 of 6 foals to draw bids above ¥100 million (US$846,024) during the session. The other 5 were all by the late Sunday Silence, including: a colt out of Gr3-winning Law Society mare Fanjica that sold for ¥154 million (US$1,302,876) to Takaya Shimakawa; & a colt out of Promotion (by Hector Proctector) that sold to Riichi Kondo for ¥330 million (US$1,175,973). (July 9) JRHA Sale Gross Up 32% & Average Up 16% The strong final session “combined with an equally robust opening session & relatively low buy-back rate” helped the JRHA post large increases in gross & average, noted thoroughbredtimes.com. Overall 211 of 276 foals offered during the 2 sessions were sold for a record ¥7.0732 billion (US$59,840,948, up 32% on last year’s US$45,330,000 for 186 sold). The average price was ¥33,522,275 (up 16.4%, from US$243,750 in 2002 to US$283,606 this year) & and the median ¥21 million was up 10.5%. The buy-back rate dropped from 37.2% last year to 23.6% in 2003. (July 9) Boom JRHA Prices ‘Double What We Expected’ Teruya Yoshida of Shadai Farm shook his head in ''joy'' & ''surprise'' reported bloodhorse.com as he commented last night: ''I think this is a figure that we are not going to see again in the history of this sale. Honestly, I know it's strange to say, but I really don't know why foals were selling like they were. The prices are about double what we had expected. I asked a lot of people, however, & they all said the same thing: that the quality of the horses was really good this year. Of course, it being the last of the Sunday Silence foals helped a lot, but foals by Special Week & Agnes Tachyon were also bringing great prices.'' Prominent trainer Mitsuhiro Ogata added: ''Everything is selling high & there are lots of customers. The Sunday Silence colts were expected to draw buyers, but prices seem higher all around. The overall quality is much better than in previous years.'' Fellow trainer Yasuhisa Matsuyama agreed: ''The horses are of very good quality. And even though the economy is poor, foals are selling well. There is money out there. If you bring out the good stock, you'll find buyers.'' (July 9) UK Tattersalls July Sale Median Up 18% The UK Tattersalls July sale (Europe's Premier Midsummer Sale) opened in strong fashion overnight, with 107 lots sold in Session-1 for 1,204,500 guineas at an average 11,257 guineas (up 7% from last year) & a median 6,000 guineas (up 18%). Top price of 90,000 guineas was paid by Paul Arnold (on behalf of Patrick Churchward's Westerlands Stud) for unraced Rainbow Quest mare Allumette (in foal to Medicean), consigned by Cheveley Park Stud (who sold 10 lots during the session for a total 334,500 guineas). BBA Ireland's Patrick Cooper paid 88,000 guineas (on behalf of Ennistown Stud) for 8YO Persian Bold mare Cassilis (in foal to Desert Prince & with a Pivotal colt foal at foot). And Eamonn Reilly from Curragh Bloodstock Agency paid 80,000 guineas (on behalf of Castlemartin Stud) for 4YO Pivotal mare Remedy (also in foal to Medicean). (July 9) Freshman Exploit Tops US Fasig-Tipton Midlantic Sale US freshman sire Exploit provided the top 2 lots at the US Fasig-Tipton Midlantic Sale of 2YOs-In-Training in Maryland, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Bradley Thoroughbred Brokerage paid US$75,000 for an Exploit-Debonairness filly (bred in Kentucky by Robert Berger); she is 1 of 6 foals of racing age out of 14-year-old Debonairness (a half-sister to Quite Rightly, a stakes-placed winning son of Miswaki). And agent Ferris Allen paid $57,000 for an Exploit-I’ve Been A Gem colt (the 2nd foal from this stakes-winning dam). Overall total receipts dropped 25.4% to US$1,201,500 (down from US$1,610,600 last year) on 90 horses sold; average price dropped 10.5% (to US$13,350 this year from US$14,913 in 2002) & the median fell 3.1% (to US$7,750 this year from US$8,000 last year). (July 9) Choisir Draws Barrier 1 For UK July Cup Australian sprinter Choisir has drawn barrier 1, described by racingpost.co.uk as “what could be the perfect draw”, in the final field of 18 runners for tomorrow's Gr1 July Cup at Newmarket in England. Barrier 1 is situated “against the far rail in the 6-furlong dash, the side of the course which appeared most favoured on the 1st day of the July meeting” yesterday. Among his main opponents, boom filly Airwave (a half-length 2nd to Choisir in the recent Gr1 Golden Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot) has drawn 9 & Oasis Dream (3rd behind Choisir in the Gr2 King's Stand Stakes at Ascot) has barrier 11. Trainer Paul Perry commented: "It should be a good draw. It's better than the one at Ascot anyway." (Choisir drew in the middle of the track when winning the Golden Jubilee Stakes at Ascot.) (July 9) Choisir Future Plans Remain Uncertain Choisir remains favourite for the race, “while speculation about his ownership & future plans continue to intensify,” added thoroughbredinternet.com. “Connections remain tight lipped about the possible sale of Choisir.” (July 9) Aust Group Races To Be Revised The Australian Group & Listed Races Advisory Group has conducted its annual meeting & decided there was “no justification for the total number of Black Type races in Australia to be increased or decreased from the current 540-550 range.” The Group restated its position that it would “continue to use the international pyramid system where 12% of all Black Type races are at Gr1 level, 15% are at Gr2 level, 19% are at Gr3 level & 54% are Listed races.” However it also reported that: The Group “wishes to utilise race classifications provided by the Australian handicappers to assist in their deliberations, but is of the view that it will be several more years & that there will need to be a few structural changes in the methodology before the classifications can be appropriately used.” The Group “closely analysed the structure of metropolitan racing in Australia (in terms of the various age, sex & distance categories) & noted, for example, the changing emphasis towards distaff races & shorter distances & away from 2YO races & races of extended distances.” The Group then “analysed the current structure of the Australian Black Type races listings in a similar way & established there was little correlation between the metropolitan racing structure & the Black Type races structure; in other words, the changing metropolitan race structure is not reflected in the Black Type listings.” The Group will “recommend to the Australian Racing Board that the entire Black Type listings be revised to reflect more accurately the overall race structure. This revision would have the potential to downgrade in status some races that have an iconic nature & to elevate some races that have increased in standard and stature in recent years.” The Group has “established a timetable to undertake the revision, so that the recommended new listings will be in place for the 2004-2005 racing season.” (July 9) Woodlands’ Quest For Fame Adds Stakes-Winners There are currently 23 winners of the UK Epsom, Irish & French Derbies still active at stud around the world “& the 1 with the best record in 2003 is Quest For Fame, winner of the Epsom classic in 1990 & sire of 6 stakes-winners to date this year (leading Hernando on 4),” noted thoroughbredinternet.com. Bred & raced by Juddmonte Farm, Quest For Fame went on to win at Gr1 level as an older horse in North America & began his stud career shuttling between Juddmonte in Kentucky & Woodlands Stud in Australia. Sire of Gr1 Del Mar Oaks winner Famous Digger in his 1st crop, he is now a full time resident of the NSW Hunter Valley; his 2 best winners in 2003, Group-winning fillies High Praise & Dextrous, are bred & raced by Juddmonte & Woodlands respectively. His most recent stakes-winner Masked (inbred to Nijinsky & another Woodlands homebred) landed the Winter Stakes at Sydney’s Rosehill Gardens last weekend, taking his career total of Black Type winners over 30. Quest For Fame's 2 Gr1-winning sons Dracula & Viscount stand at Woodlands, with Dracula's 1st crop running & winning this season in Australia & Europe. Meanwhile Quest For Fame's sire Rainbow Quest is enjoying an excellent year as a broodmare sire, highlighted by this year's English Derby winner Kris Kin & Italian Gr1 winner Rakti. (July 9) NSW Trainer Unrest 1 More than 80 trainers attended a rally at Dubbo Racecourse last Sunday to form ‘The NSW Trainers Net’. Ivor Trapman said the intention was to “protest the dissatisfaction with the latest round of proposals to increase worker's compensation payments, race scheduling, the planned closing of nearly every racecourse in NSW, public liability insurance & the collection of fees for the TRB from owners, to name but a few.” He added “the 1st thing to be done will be affiliation of the new association with the Australian Workers Union, to help with forming the Net, with advice on legal representation, public liability & presenting a united campaign on behalf of all NSW Trainers.” Trapman noted “the amount of resentment felt by trainers as a result of being left out of discussions” was shown by recent trainer turn outs at Muswellbrook (80), Orange (40), Dubbo (80) & the North Coast (40). Further meetings are set for Coff's Harbour (July 20) & Wagga Wagga. Trapman aded: “Every Trainer will be contacted over the next 6-8 weeks & asked for their opinion. No names will be mentioned till formation of the Association.” (July 9) NSW Trainer Unrest 2 Meanwhile racing administrators have hit back at suggestions they are unsympathetic to the plight of NSW country trainers who have formed the breakaway body known as the NSW Trainers Network. Racing NSW said it had shown in recent weeks it was “willing to address the concerns & assist country trainers with increased costs.” Last month Racing NSW extended the return date of fees, before agreeing to the Australian Trainers Association's request to change the licence renewal process with respect to workers' compensation premiums & alleviating the burden faced by trainers. Racing NSW chief executive Merv Hill said: "Racing NSW representatives have always been available to meet with trainers' representatives, negotiating repeatedly on the workers comp charging method. In this respect, credit should be given by all trainers to the ATA for its persistence." ATA (NSW branch) president Ron Leemon added: "Mark Daniels (Racing Industry Participants Advisory Committee) & I have been into Racing NSW for discussions virtually every week for the past 5 weeks. Each time we have negotiated, the country trainers have been at the forefront of our minds. It's not an easy issue & we have appealed to those conducting these Trainers Network meetings to fully discuss the spiralling costs & problems facing NSW racing & produce constructive suggestions that can be submitted to Racing NSW, to successfully deal with these issues." Racing NSW said it appreciated the difficulties some trainers faced with increasing costs of running their businesses, but insurance was an essential requirement for all business to insure workers against injury. (July 9) Dye To Represent Rest-Of-The-World In Shergar Cup Hong Kong-based former leading Sydney jockey Shane Dye “is set to represent the Rest-Of-The-World team in the Blue Square Shergar Cup” at Ascot in England on August 9, reported racingpost.co.uk. Dye confirmed to Brisbane radio station 4TAB. "I'm only here (in Australia) for about a fortnight before I go to England to ride in a jockeys' invitation series early next month." Dye will ride against teams representing Great Britain & Ireland. (July 9) French Star Vadalix To Race In HK This season's French stakes-winner Vadalix (Linamix-Vadsa Honor, by Highest Honor) “has been sold in a private deal brokered by Anthony Bromley of Highflyer Bloodstock & Dwayne Woods,” reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Winner of the Listed Prix Matchem & 2nd behind Gr1 winner Vespone in the Gr3 Prix la Force, 3YO colt Vadalix “will be trained in Hong Kong by Sean Woods.” (July 9) Shadai May Repurchase War Emblem The future of 1st-year stallion War Emblem is still unclear, “but the Japanese farm that stood the 2002 champion 3YO colt has expressed an interest in possibly buying the dual classic winner,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Three insurance companies recently assumed control of the 4YO son of Our Emblem when he showed a lack of interest in the breeding shed; a 4th insurance company involved in the fertility claim has not paid its part to Shadai. Shadai Stallion Station co-owner Teruya Yoshida told racingpost.co.uk: "We may buy him back from the insurance companies. War Emblem is looking very good now. He was depressed when he got here, but he’s looking very good. I’ve never seen this problem before, so I don’t know, but I hope the horse will change his mind." Shadai purchased War Emblem from The Thoroughbred Corporation (which raced him to his championship honors after purchasing him early in his 3YO season) in September 2002 for US$17 million. He was shipped to Japan following his 8th in last year’s Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Classic, but after beginning his breeding career by covering 5 mares in a 5-day period in early March this year, the horse “lost his desire to breed”. On the track, War Emblem won 7 of 13 races (including the 2002 Gr1 Kentucky Derby & Gr1 Preakness Stakes) & earned US$3,491,000. Yoshida suggested another option for War Emblem’s future “could be sold to American interests who might want to return him to racing.” (July 9) Darley 2YOs Finish 3rd At Funabashi Debut Darley Japan Racing started 2 juvenile runners at Funabashi racecourse, netting a pair of 3rds with Mark Of Honor & Zelenka, “in a historic debut of an international stable in local racing in Japan” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Masayuki Kawashima trains the colts for Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum’s Darley organisation, “whose appearances were greeted by a throng of reporters equal to the number that would turn out for some of Japan’s major stakes events.” Sheikh Mohammed, who has had extensive dealings with Japanese breeders for years, received permission in April to begin a racing stable competing on the local circuit in Japan, a nation that severely restricts participation by non-Japanese owners. Japanese national Chikara Takahashi represents Darley Japan, making it a permissible ownership entity under the rules. (July 9) Tizdubai’s Winning Debut For Sheikh Mohammed Meanwhile Tizdubai (a full sister to US 2000 Horse-Of-The-Year Tiznow) “debuted in grand fashion” by winning over 5.5 furlongs at Hollywood Park, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum’s Darley Stud Management, Tizdubai is out of winning Seattle Song mare Cee’s Song & is also a full sister to multiple Gr2 winner Budroyale. Darley acquired Tizdubai as a weanling for US$950,000 at the 2001 Keeneland November breeding stock sale. (July 9) California Breeder William Pascoe dies Leading California breeder William Pascoe III “whose 700-acre Los Cerritos was one of the state’s most prominent breeding farms” has died at his home in Corona Del Mar aged 87, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Pascoe “dedicated years of his life to the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association”, serving as president from 1972-74 & as a Board member for 20 years; he was also a founding director of Oak Tree Racing Association & emeritus director of Hollywood Park. (July 9) Falero’s 8 Wins Equal Argentine Record Jockey Pablo Gustavo Falero equaled the Argentine record for most wins on a single program for the 2nd time in 4 months, riding 8 winners on the 15-race card at Hipodromo San Isidro reported thoroughbredtimes.com. (Falero also won 8 races on March 19 at San Isidro, equaling the national record set by Angel Baratucci in December 1957 at Hipodromo Independencia in Rosario.) Beginning by winning on his 1st 5 mounts, Falero followed with victories in the 11th, 12th & 15th races. Falero has been top jockey in Argentina for the last 11 years. (July 9) NZ Racing Minister At Matamata Trackwork Wednesday Odd Spot: Australian Racing Ministers Take Note! NZ Racing Minister Damian O’Connor, “making an effort to get in touch with the people who make racing happen,” appeared at fog-blanketed Matamata trackwork yesterday morning, reported thorougbrednews.co.nz. O’Connor, who is canvassing the Waikato this week, explained: “Part of my job is to understand the various parts of the racing industry & there is no better way than this sort of approach. I’d much rather touch base with people here than at 1 of the big racedays.” Similar ‘at-the-coalface’ sentiments from the mouth of an Australian state racing minister are not expected any time soon! (July 9) $4.1 Million Sunday Silence-Seto Flowerian Filly At JRHA Sale A Sunday Silence colt from former Australian race filly Seto Flowerian sold for ¥330 million (A$4.1 million) to top Session 1 of the 2-day Japan Racing Horse Association Select Foals Sale yesterday. Consigned by Shadai Farm, the colt is a full brother to Gr1 performer Tiger Cafe. He was knocked down to Fusaro Sekiguchi (who previously grabbed international headlines when he outlaid US$4 million for a Mr Prospector colt at the 1998 Keeneland July sale, which later raced as Fusaichi Pegasus). Seto Flowerian won 5 Australian races for Warwick Farm trainer Paul Cave, including the Gr3 Adrian Knox Stakes (plus 2nd in the 1994 Gr1 Australian Oaks at Randwick behind Alcove, & 3rds in both the Listed Bendigo Cup & Listed Belle Of The Turf Stakes at Gosford). She is a daughter of South Australian-based sire Bellotto & was bred by Adelaide businessman Ken Eustace & sold (as part of the Turannga Stud draft) through the 1992 Magic Millions January Yearling Sale on the Gold Coast to Australian Bloodhorse Club of Japan for $35,000. Seto Flowerian’s family includes Melbourne & Adelaide Cup winner Subzero, Caulfield Guineas winner Centro & Golden Slipper winning sire Marscay. Seto Flowerian is the dam of 4 foals of racing age & has produced 2 winners: her 1999 Sunday Silence colt Tiger Cafe has won 2 races & finished 2nd in the Gr1 Satsuki Sho (Japanese 2000 Guineas) & 3rd in the Gr2 Yayoi Sho; & her filly Fureika (by Sunday Silence) has also won twice in Japan. (July 8) Day-1 $433,402 Average At JRHA The 2nd highest priced foal sold at yesterday’s JRHA Select Foals Sale was another colt by Sunday Silence (out of Elizabeth Rose, by Northern Taste) knocked down for A$1.59 million. Overall Session 1 averaged A$433,402 for 109 sold, with a median A$273,460 & gross receipts of A$47,134,560. (July 8) JRHA Boost For Arrowfield Sires Meanwhile Arrowfield Stud “must be over the moon with the reception given to the 1st crop of foals by Kurofune & his proven Gr1 producing sire French Deputy” at the JRHA Sale, noted racenet.com.au. Fusaro Sekiguchi paid ¥330 million (A$1.23 million) for a Kurofune colt out of Sunday Silence mare Fusaichi Airedale (winner of 5 races). And a Kurofune colt out of stakes-placed Northern Princess (by Northern Taste) sold for ¥36million (A$447,000) to Yoshie Hinokuma. French Deputy foals were also in demand: Makoto Kaneko outlaid ¥67million (A$832,000) for a colt 1st foal of Dark Ending (a daughter of End Sweep) who won 4 races in North America (including the Gr1 Selene Stakes); Shinobu Osako purchased a French Deputy colt out of former star Argentinean mare Sun Spring (by Southern Halo) who won the Gr1 Carrera de las Estrellas Juvenile Sprint for ¥50million (A$621,000). (July 8) Black Hawk Foal Sells For $571,000 And 1 of the 1st foals by Eliza Park stallion Black Hawk sold for A$571,320 at the JRHA Sale. Black Hawk (a son of Nureyev) was a former top sprinter-miler in Japan. Makoto Kaneko paid ¥46million (A$571,320) for the Black Hawk colt out of Crafty Wife (by Crafty Prospector), a winner of 7 races in the US & dam of 11 foals of racing age (9 to race for 8 winners). Black Hawk was also prominent again in the pedigree of the highest priced filly on Day-1, a daughter of Singspiel; Soda Noen paid ¥80million (A$993,600) for a half-sister to Black Hawk out of French stakes winning Silver Hawk mare Silver Lane. (July 8) Machiavellian Half-Brother Tops Goffs France Sale A pair of unraced stallion prospects bred in Kentucky by the Niarchos family’s Flaxman Holdings (& both consigned by leading trainer Pascal Bary) led the action at the Goffs France Summer Sale, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Mogok (a 3YO son of Storm Cat out of Gr3-winning Halo mare Coup de Folie) topped the sale on a US$155,290 bid by Kern Lillingston; Mogok is a half-brother to European high-weight & top sire Machiavellian, French high-weight & Gr1 winner Coup de Genie, Gr1 winner & sire Exit To Nowhere, & 2 other group stakes winners. (The family has also produced Gr1 winner & sire Orpen, French classic winner Bluemamba & Gr3 winner Jules, sire of Gr1 Blue Grass Stakes winner & Gr1 Kentucky Derby 3rd-placed Peace Rules.) Plans call for Mogok to stand in South Africa. And Flaxman Holdings-bred Kitalpha (a 4YO son of Mr Prospector out of multiple international champion Miesque) brought US$63,266 from Kern Lillingston; Kitalpha is a full brother to multiple Gr1 winner & leading sire Kingmambo & Gr3 winner & sire Miesque’s Son, & a half-brother to European high-weight & French classic winner East Of The Moon. (July 8) Goffs France Average Up 22% Of the 198 horses offered at the Goffs France Summer Sale, 124 sold for a total of US $2,635,107 (last year US$2,229,990) & an average US$21,251 (up 22% on last year’s US$17,421). Highflyer Bloodstock was the leading buyer, spending US$453,218 on 12 horses, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. (July 8) Aust Gr1 Winner Fine Society Heads For HK Gr1 Canterbury Guineas winner Fine Society (formerly trained by John Hawkes) “will continue her career in Hong Kong,” reported racenet.com.au. The rising 4YO mare was the only filly in the Canterbury Guineas (1900m) when ridden to victory by Corey Brown. Lightly-raced Fine Society (Marscay-Early Song) has 3 wins & 2 placings in 8 starts. She arrived in HK a fortnight ago & will be trained by expatriate Australian David Hayes. (July 8) Dye To Ride At Warwick Farm Meanwhile HK-based former Sydney jockey Shane Dye “will make a brief appearance at Warwick Farm” tomorrow, reported racenet.com.au. Dye (in Sydney “on his annual break from HK racing”) will ride the Peter Staunton-trained Oh She Said “as a favour for a mate”. (July 8) Choisir Now Entered For UK Gr1 Nunthorpe Stakes Australian sprinter Choisir, favourite for England’s Gr1 July Cup at Newmarket on Thursday, “could have his stay in Britain extended to take in a tilt at the Victor Chandler Nunthorpe Stakes at York next month,” reported racingpost.co.uk. Newcastle trainer Paul Perry confirmed: “He has been entered for the Nunthorpe. It is only because we are here, nominations closed & it is a Gr1 race. Now we have the opportunity, which we wouldn’t if he wasn’t put in. It is all speculation at this stage; the race is a long way away.” (July 8) Choisir Works On Tricky Newmarket Track Meanwhile trainer Paul Perry arranged a special trackwork session to familiarise Choisir with the undulating Newmarket July Cup course: cantering the 1st 3 furlongs & galloping the last 3 under 67-year-old groom & regular work-rider Lyle Weaver. Newmarket clerk of the course Michael Prosser told racingpost.co.uk: “Any Gr1 horse who wants to work on the course before the race is fully entitled to. The July Course, with its undulations, bears no similarities to any Australian course; so this was all part of his preparation & we were delighted to accommodate him. He went in the saddling box to get saddled up and then went round the parade ring and took it all in his stride.” (July 8) Choisir Still 2-1 Favourite With William Hill Choisir is facing 21 confirmed opponents in Thursday’s £250,000 (A$650,000) Gr1 Darley July Cup. Leading UK bookmaking firm William Hill’s overnight betting market was: 2-1 Choisir; 3-1 Airwave; 7-2 Oasis Dream; 12-1 Acclamation; 16-1 Membership & Zipping; 20-1 Captain Rio, Continent, Just James, Polar Way, Statue Of Liberty, Striking Ambition & Tomahawk; 25-1 Danehurst & Orientor; 33-1 Danger Over; 40-1 Bahamian Pirate, Needwood Blade & Twilight Blues; 50-1 Tante Rose; 66-1 Steenberg; 100-1 Salt Lake City. (July 8) UK Offer For Aust Jumper Specular Mornington trainer Tony Rosolini has received an English offer “believed to be at least $750,000” for his top class jumper Specular, reported aapracingandsports.com.au. The sale of the Danehill 6YO “is dependent on the gelding passing a veterinary examination which Dr Alistair McLean will carry out at the Werribee Veterinary Clinic” this morning. Rosolini confirmed: "We will be sending him down to Werribee at 10am. They are going to look at the horse for 3 or 4 hours, so they are going to be thorough." Specular has won 8 of 10 hurdle races & last start “looked desperately unlucky when he carried 70.5kg & was beaten a short head by Alobar” in the Grand National Hurdle on June 28. (July 8) Emirates Park To Stand Wily Trader Wily Trader (Marscay-Wily Trick, by Clever Trick) will join the stallion roster at Emirates Park at Murrurundi in NSW for the spring breeding season. The rising 4YO son of champion sire Marscay is a 1999 foal from His Excellency Nasser Lootah’s regally-related broodmare Wily Trick & a half-brother to internationally acclaimed racemare Elegant Fashion (highest earning female racehorse ever bred in Australia with $3.9 million, surpassing Dane Ripper $3.1 million, Belle Du Jour $3.1 million & Ha Ha $2.9 million). After establishing herself among the leading members of her age & sex in Australia, Elegant Fashion (by Danewin) made history by winning the Gr1 Hong Kong Derby & followed-up with narrow defeats in both the Gr1 Champions & Chater Cup and Gr1 Queen Elizabeth II Cup. Meanwhile Wily Trader, produced by a half-sister to Height Of Fashion, is closely-related to a number of exceptional racehorses and/or sires including 5YO Nayef (winner of last month’s Gr1 Prince Of Wales Stakes at Royal Ascot), dual English Classic winner Nashwan (1989 Champion 3YO) & Unfuwain (1988 Champion 3YO colt); another of Height Of Fashion’s 6 black-type winning off-spring was Mukddaam, whose short stud career in Victoria yielded 2002 Gr1 QTC Queensland Oaks winner Mon Mekki. Wily Trader retires to stud unraced due to injury at an introductory fee of $2,750 (including GST). He will stand at Emirates Park beside Danewin, Dexter, El Moxie, Polish Laughter, Secret Savings, Shagny, Snaadee, Tabkir & Urgent Request. (July 8) 110 Horses Sold At Lyndhurst Reduction Sale The Magic Millions Lyndhurst Stud Farm Reduction Sale at Warwick in Queensland saw 110 horses sold for an aggregate $709,350 (average $6,449) at a 76.39% clearance rate. Top price of $40,000 was paid by Singapore businessman Seet Seow Huat for Star Way mare Strawberry Way; from a sister to globe trotting champion Strawberry Road, dual city winner Strawberry Way (already the dam of 2 winners) was carrying a positive test to young stallion prospect Irish Royal. Seet Seow Huat was also leading individual buyer at the sale, spending $248,850 for 19 purchases which also included weanlings by Irish Royal, Lujain, Shinko Forest, King Of Kings & Thunder Gulch, a yearling by Dolphin Street & broodmares by Star Way, Al Ameen, Colonel Collins, Rise ‘n’ Shine, Rubiton & Unbridled’s Song. Top price for a weanling was $30,000 for a filly by shuttler Thunder Gulch from the sale-topping Strawberry Way. And a colt by Bluebird’s son Dolphin Street achieved the highest price from the 11 yearlings offered; from an unplaced Fairy King mare, the bay colt also sold for $30,000. (July 8) Japanese Syndication Club Lands Aust Winner Japanese-based racehorse syndication club Yushun International landed its 1st Australian winner on the weekend when the Bede Murray-trained Easter City won at Kembla Grange. Yushun International is 1 of 20 syndication clubs currently operating in Japan & boasts 13,000 members & 350 horses. The company launched its initial foray into the Australian market last year, purchasing several horses which have been placed with a variety of leading trainers. Eastern City is a 2YO Desert Sun-Pure Honey filly purchased at the Inglis 2002 Australian Breeze-Up Sale for $55,000. (July 8) Helenus Eyes Japan Cup Meanwhile Australia’s newly-crowned Champion 3YO Helenus “may be looking at a Cox Plate-Japan Cup double in the new season,” reported racenet.com.au. Trainer Leon Corstens believes that “if all goes well with the horse in his preparation” a trip to Japan for the Japan Cup (2400m) on Sunday 30 November at Tokyo Racecourse “is on the cards”. Helenus would carry 57kgs in the Gr1 474 million Yen (A$5.9 million) Japan Cup. Helenus (Helissio-Worldwide Elsie) has already won the Gr1 MRC Caulfield Guineas (1600m), Gr1 VRC Victoria Derby (2500m), Gr1 STC Rosehill Guineas (2000m), Gr2 MVRC AAMI Vase (2040m) & Gr2 MVRC Bill Stutt Stakes (1600m). (July 8) True Steel’s 450% Investment Return True Steel took his record to 9 wins & 9 placings from 38 starts when he won the Listed Winter Cup (2400m) at Belmont in Perth on the weekend. A 5YO son of former Australian Horse-Of-The-Year & proven Gr1 sire Jeune (out of Persian Heights mare How Special), True Steel’s prize-money total of $174,845 is a 450% return on the $32,500 paid by WA bloodstock agent John Chalmers at the 1999 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale at Morphettville. (July 8) $3,500 Bargain Records ‘City’ Win In Perth And Dead Eye Dick (Red Eye Special-Send Your Regards), a $3,500 steal at the 2001 Magic Millions Perth Autumn Yearling Sale also won at the weekend at Belmont in WA. (July 8) Magic Millions Trifecta In Sunshine Coast Guineas Meanwhile on the bargain front, 3YO gelding Paper Kings (a $5,500 purchase by Toowoomba horseman Rex Lipp at the 2001 Magic Millions Autumn Yearling Sale on the Gold Coast) won the weekend’s $50,550 XXXX Sunshine Coast Guineas (1600m) at Caloundra. Paper Kings (King Ivor-Tabernacle, by Palace Music) has now registered 6 wins & 3 placings for $138,525 prize-money. He led home Amex (Success Express-Spriggy) a $20,000 Magic Millions bargain who has now earned $180,900 & Lamond (Celestial Dancer-Come Hither Look) an $8,000 Magic Millions buy who has now earned $111,025. (July 8) King Ivor’s 12-From-28 Wins In 4 Weeks The win by King Ivor’s 1st crop 3YO Paper Kings highlights the winning run by the former Gooree Stud owned stallion. In the last 4 weeks, his progeny have had 28 starts for 12 winners, noted racenet.com.au. Indeed King Ivor (who now stands at Royston Stud near Beaudesert in Queensland for $3,300) had not sired a 2YO winner this season until Suparro won at Ipswich on June 7; a month later he has sired 4 2YOs that have earned over $250,000 (Doomben winner King’s Coup, Rosehill winner Glimpsing & Ipswich winners Kalinga Metal & Suparoo). King Ivor was one of Sadler’s Wells brother Fairy King’s best Australian performers. As a 3YO he won the Gr2 Sandown Guineas & placed in both the Gr3 Autumn Stakes & Listed Mercedes Benz Stakes; as a 4YO he added the Gr2 STC Premiere Stakes & placed in the Gr2 Theo Marks Quality; overall he had 6 wins & 4 placings. A son of unraced Sir Ivor mare Royalivor, King Ivor is a half-brother to multiple Gr3 winner & US$900,000 earner Snake Eyes (by Dixieland Band) & Gr3 Sandown Classic Trial winner Linney Head (by Lyphard). In the 1980s King Ivor’s 2nd dam Royal Honoree set a then world record price for a broodmare at auction when sold for US$3.8 million in foal to Northern Dancer. Now 22, King Ivor's dam Royalivor continues to be a wonderful producer for Gooree Stud; last year she foaled a colt by Kentucky Derby winner Fusaichi Pegasus & was served by King Of Kings. (July 8) MM Winners In Singapore & Macau With Hong Kong in recess, the Asian racing circuit continues in both Singapore & Macau where Magic Millions graduates won a host of weekend races. In Singapore on Saturday MM had 3 winners: End Sweep’s exciting 2YO son Beautiful Delight ($40,000 buy for Anzac Lodge at the 2002 Adelaide Magic Millions Yearling Sale) romped home by 3.75 lengths; consistent Mr Greeeley son Imperial Treasure ($17,000 at the Adelaide MM Yearling Sale) won easily by 3.5 lengths over 1600m in a Class 5 event; & the Emma Boling-owned/John Meagher-trained former Australian galloper Sloane Street ($27,500 purchase at the 2000 Magic Millions January Yearling Sale on the Gold Coast) also notched a victory. In Singapore on Sunday MM had another 2 winners: Don Baertschiger’s $120,000 2000 Adelaide Magic Millions purchase Avalanche (Danehill-Snow Wonder) in the Open Benchmark event over 1200m; & bloodstock agent Mark Pilkington’s $40,000 2001 Adelaide Magic Millions Yearling Sale buy Impulse Connection (Danzig Connection-Greenwich Pike). In Macau on Saturday night MM had a winning treble: former Australian galloper Si Si Senor (a $35,000 1995 Magic Millions Gold Coast yearling buy for Gai Waterhouse) scored over 1400m; Unbridled’s Song gelding Shen Lang Bo Bo (an $80,000 Magic Millions Gold Coast purchase by Louis Lau) won over 1000m; & Teamhappy Sum (a $65,000 Magic Millions Gold Coast “pin hook” by Ron Dufficy) scored over 1200m. (July 8) HKJC Plans ‘Happy Valley Million Challenge’ The Hong Kong Jockey Club will introduce the ‘Happy Valley Million Challenge’ from the start of the 2003-04 season, as an incentive for owners of higher quality horses to race repeatedly at Happy Valley racetrack. HKJC executive director of racing Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges explained: “Research by the club shows that, across the board, average turnover per race at Happy Valley is higher than its equivalent at Sha Tin, while Class 3 races at the Valley attract an average 20% more turnover than Class 4 or Class 5 events. The Club is committed to luring a greater number of higher-rated horses to race at Happy Valley, thereby providing the customer with more races at the level of Class 3 & above.” The ‘Million Challenge’ will run from the 1st Happy Valley meeting of the new season on September 3 until December 17 & comprise only races of Class 3 standard & above: horses 1-5 past the post in each series race will be allocated points, which accrue through the series. At the end of the series in December, the owner of the highest point scoring horse will receive a cheque for HK$650,000 (A$130,000); 2nd prize will be HK$250,000 (A$50,000) & 3rd will be HK$100,000 (A$20,000). (July 8) Changes To HK Group Races The Hong Kong Jockey Club has also “fine tuned its Group race system for next season,” reported aapracingandsports.com.au. The 3 trials for the HK International Races - the International Cup Trial, International Mile Trial (formerly the Chevalier Cup) & International Sprint Trial - have been upgraded to Gr2 status “to reflect the quality of the horses taking part”. The Gr3 Happy Valley Trophy is to be replaced by a new Gr3 Sha Tin Sprint Trophy (1000m) to be run around the same time in October. The club has made this decision “in order to foster a more suitable lead-up for local horses preparing for the HK International Sprint in December. (July 8) Hallowed Dreams In Foal To Forty Niner Stallion Hallowed Dreams, the Louisiana-based mare who opened her career with 16 straight victories, “is adjusting well to her new career as a broodmare at trainer & co-owner Lloyd Romero’s farm in Louisiana,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 5YO daughter of Malagra is in foal to Forty Niner stallion Tirade, who stands at the same farm. Hallowed Dreams retired last year after suffering a bone chip in her right front ankle; overall she won 25 of 30 career starts. (July 8) 1st Graded Stakes Wins For US Sire Grand Slam US 2nd crop sire Grand Slam (Gone West-Bright Candles, by El Gran Senor), who stands at Ashford Stud in Kentucky, recorded his 1st Graded Stakes winner, followed by his 2nd just 10 minutes later, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. At Belmont Park, 3YO Strong Hope (ridden by John Velazquez for trainer Todd Pletcher) made it 4-in-a-row by winning the Gr2 Dwyer Stakes (8.5 furlongs), defeating Nacheezmo & Gr1 winner Sky Mesa (the 1st loss in his 4-race career). Bred in Kentucky, Strong Hope (Grand Slam-Shining Through, by Deputy Minister) has won 4 of 5 career starts for high-profile owner Eugene Melnyk, who paid US$1.7 million at the 2001 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga yearling sale; Shining Through’s dam Solar is a half-sister to English classic winner & leading sire El Gran Senor. Barely 10 minutes later unbeaten 2YO colt Limehouse (Grand Slam-Dixieland Blues, by Dixieland Band) won the Gr3 Bashford Manor Stakes (6 furlongs) by 4.5 lengths at Churchill Downs. Limehouse (ridden by Robby Albarado for trainer Todd Pletcher & owner Dogwood Stables) defeated First Money & hot favourite Cuvee. (July 8) 1st Winner For Canadian Freshman Sire Shaheen Canadian freshman sire Shaheen recorded his 1st winner when 2YO filly Allourwishes won by 6.75 lengths on debut at Marquis Downs, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Shaheen (who won 3 of 15 starts between 1997-99) stands at Dunmore Farm near Saskatoon in Saskatchewan. Shaheen has 3 starters from 17 foals of racing age in his 1st crop & 9 yearlings in his 2nd crop. Bred in Kentucky, Shaheen is a 9YO son of Danzig out of Majestic Light mare Hidden Light. (July 8) 1st Winner For Canadian Sire Archers Bay Canadian champion & classic winner Archers Bay recorded his 1st winner when son Kent Ridge (owned & bred by Eugene Melnyk) won over 5.5 furlongs at Woodbine, reported bloodhorse.com. Archers Bay (Silver Deputy-Adorned, by Val de l'Orne) stood at Windfields Farm in Ontario prior to his death last year. (July 8) Colonial Affair To Stand In Argentina US sire Colonial Affair (winner of the 1993 Gr1 Belmont Stakes) will shuttle to Argentina next month to stand the Southern Hemisphere breeding season at Haras El Paraiso, following an agreement by the farm to purchase a percentage of Colonial Affair from the horse’s owner John Berendt, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 13-year-old Virginia-bred Colonial Affair (Pleasant Colony-Snuggle, by Nijinsky) began stud duty in the US at Gainesway Farm, but was then sold to Japan. A son of Pleasant Colony (winner of the Gr1 Kentucky Derby & Gr1 Preakness Stakes & sire of more than 80 stakes winners), Colonial Affair won 7 of 20 starts & earned US$1,635,228; in 1994, Colonial Affair was nominated for the Best Older Horse Eclipse Award after victories in the Jockey Club Gold Cup, Gr1 Whitney Stakes & Gr2 Excelsior Handicap. With 5 crops of racing age, Colonial Affair is the sire of 14 stakes winners (including Lily’s Affair, Lakenheath & Ubiquity). (July 8) Golden Voyager To Stand In Brazil Golden Voyager, a 16-year-old-son of Mr Prospector who stood the last 8 seasons at Carlos Hirmas Haras Matancilla in Chile, has been purchased by Brazilian breeders Gonzalo Borges Torrealba’s TNT Farm in partnership with Linneu de Paula Machado’s Sao Jose & Expedictus Farm, where he will stand during the coming Southern Hemisphere season, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. From 61 foals in 6 crops of racing age, Golden Voyager has sired 31 winners (11 group/graded stakes winners, including Chilean classic winner & Gr1-placed Mister Acpen) & 3 champions (Crystal House, Guacate & Penumbrosa). Golden Voyager is out of multiple champion La Voyageuse (by Tentam) & is a half-brother to Gr3 winner & sire Time Bandit, stakes winner Innovative, French group-placed winner & sire Kentucky Slew, French Shoes (dam of Gr2 winner French Braids) & Society Lady (who produced top European performer Bint Allayl). His 2nd dam is Canadian & US champion & multiple stakes producer Fanfreluche. Golden Voyager won 3 races & placed 6 times in 14 career starts. (July 8) US$121 Million Renovation To Historic Churchill Downs Stand Last weekend’s conclusion of the spring-summer meet at Churchill Downs marked “the end of an era at the historic Louisville track, with major construction looming that will include tearing out a large portion of the clubhouse,” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. A 600ft portion of the clubhouse, just west of the historic Twin Spires, will be removed as apart of a US $121 million renovation project. The new clubhouse (with luxury suites & restaurants) will not be finished until the spring of 2005. Churchill spokesman John Asher told the Louisville Courier-Journal newspaper: "It’s going to be a jolt when some folks realise how significant this is going to be." (July 8) 1st Season Foal 6 Weeks Early At Westbury Tuesday Odd Spot: It’s only the 1st week of July, but already the 1st new season foal has been born in NZ, reported NZ Thoroughbred Marketing. The brown filly by Kilimanjaro arrived at Auckland’s Westbury Stud last week, but was not due until August 13. Westbury general manager Russell Warwick explained: "The foal was more than 6 weeks premature &, to be honest, we didn’t expect her to survive. She has continued to make good progress &, while unable to get up on her own during the 1st few days, her strength is growing by the day & she can now stand for periods of 15 minutes or more at a time. She still has some way to go, but the initial signs are positive. Around-the-clock vigils have been necessary to ensure the foal gets every opportunity to survive, wrapped in blankets & bottle-fed on the hour throughout the day & night.” Kilimanjaro stands at Westbury Stud & is a son of Shirley Heights; his oldest progeny are 2YOs. The filly’s dam is unraced Royal Academy mare English Ballet (closely related to English Derby winner Secreto). Until the last 2 years, a foal born at this time would have been classified as 1YO on August 1. But a NZ Thoroughbred Racing rule change has meant foals born before August 1 are not disadvantaged, providing the mare was not served before September 1 in the year of mating; English Ballet was covered on September 6 last year. (July 8) House Party Wins US Gr1 Prioress Stakes Arrowfield Stud’s new shuttle stallion French Deputy scored a major weekend result when his 3YO filly House Party (French Deputy-Bill Back, by Relaunch) won the US Gr1 Prioress Stakes (6 furlongs) by 3.25 lengths at Belmont Park, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. House Party (ridden by Jose Santos & trained by Allen Jerkens) defeated Chimichurri (Elusive Quality-Hard Knocker, by Raja Baba) & Princess V (Memo-Fort Silver, by Fort Calgary). Bred in Florida, House Party now has 5 wins & 4 placings in 11 starts. Winning sire & Gr1 winner French Deputy (Deputy Minister-Mitterand, by Hold Your Peace) shuttles between Japan & Arrowfield Stud in the NSW Hunter Valley. “House Party becomes the 4th Gr1 winner & 1st Gr1-winning filly for French Deputy, who will stand alongside his dual Gr1 winning son Kurofune at Arrowfield this year,” reported racenet.com.au. (July 7) Mineshaft Wins US Gr1 Suburban Handicap William Farish’s Mineshaft (A.P.Indy-Prospectors Delite, by Mr Prospector) returned to the winner’s circle in the US$500,000 Gr1 Suburban Handicap (10 furlongs) at Belmont Park, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Mineshaft (ridden by Robby Albarado for trainer Neil Howard) won by 1.25 lengths from 2002 Breeders' Cup Classic winner Volponi (Cryptoclearance-Prom Knight, by Sir Harry Lewis) & Gr2 winner Dollar Bill (Peaks And Valleys-Saratoga Dame, by Saratoga Six). The 4YO son of A.P.Indy has won 5 stakes (also including the Gr1 Pimlico Special Handicap, Gr2 New Orleans Handicap, Gr3 Ben Ali Stakes & Diplomat Way Handicap) in 2003 & now has 8 wins overall in 16 career starts for US$1,383,402 prize-money. Mineshaft is 1 of 5 starters (all winners) out of multiple Gr1-winning Mr Prospector mare Prospectors Delite & is a full brother to multiple Gr1 winner Tomisue’s Delight & stakes winner Rock Slide, & a half-brother to stakes winners Delta Music & Monashee Mountain. (July 7) Weld’s Dimitrova Wins American Oaks Irish trainer Dermot Weld made a successful trans-Atlantic raid when his 3YO filly Dimitrova (Swain-The Caretaker, by Caerleon) won the US$750,000 American Oaks (10 furlongs on turf) at Hollywood Park, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Dimitrova (ridden by David Flores) won by 2 lengths from Sand Springs (by Dynaformer) & Atlantic Ocean (by Stormy Atlantic). Dimitrova has now won 3 of 6 career starts. She is a half-sister to Mutafaweq (winner of the UK 1999 Gr1 St Leger & Gr1 Coronation Cup & now at stud in Japan); their dam The Caretaker won the 1000 Guineas Trial & Silver Flash Stakes in Ireland & was bred by Mrs Weld. The winner’s sire & multiple Gr1 winner Swain (Nashwan-Love Smitten, by Key To The Mint) stands at Shadwell Farm in Kentucky. (July 7) Joey Franco Wins US Gr1 Triple Bend Breeders’Cup Handicap Joey Franco, a 4YO California-bred son of Avenue Of Flags, won the US Gr1 Triple Bend Breeders’ Cup Handicap (7 furlongs) at Hollywood Park, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Joey Franco (ridden by Patrick Valenzuela for trainer Darrell Vienna) scored by a head from Publication (by Petionville) & Primerica (by Mr Greeley). Joey Franco now has 7 wins in 14 career starts. He is out of Native Prospector mare Susan Powter & is a half-brother to stakes winner Miss Lawless. Sire Avenue Of Flags is a half-brother to Australia's boom juvenile getter Beautiful Crown. (July 7) Balto Star Wins US Gr1 United Nations Handicap Anstu Stables multiple Gr2-winning 5YO gelding Balto Star (Glitterman-Miss Livi, by Devil's Bag) “ran his rivals ragged from the front” to win the US$750,000 Gr1 United Nations Handicap (11 furlongs on turf) at Monmouth Park, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Balto Star (ridden by Jose Velez for trainer Todd Pletcher) won by half a length from The Tin Man (Affirmed-Lizzie Rolfe, by Tom Rolfe) & Lunar Sovereign (Cobra King-January Moon, by Apalachee) in course record time of 2min 12.78sec. Balto Star won the Gr2 Turfway Spiral Stakes at Turfway Park & Gr2 Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn Park as a 3YO & has 9 wins in 27 career starts for US$1,630,446 prize-money. (July 7) Tale of The Cat Adds US Gr3 Winner Coolmore’s boom juvenile sire Tale Of The Cat added another Group winner to his US tally when his filly Be Gentle won the Gr3 Debutante Stakes at Churchill Downs, reported aapracingandsports.com.au. The son of Storm Cat was leading US freshman sire in 2002 & his 1st crop in Australasia includes 12 individual winners of 14 races (including NZ Gr3 winner Ubiquitous, stakes-winners Scaredee Cat & Hulachine, & Gr1-placed Jameel). Be Gentle, trained by D. Wayne Lukas, is unbeaten after winning her only previous start at Churchill Downs by 8.5 lengths. In the US, Tale Of The Cat now has almost 50 individual winners from his 1st 2 crops. (July 7) Undefeated Argrentinian Star Continues US Winning Run Undefeated Argentinian Gr1 winner Candy Ride (who won his US debut by 3 lengths last month) continued his winning sequence with victory in the Gr2 American Handicap (9 furlongs on turf) at Hollywood Park, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Candy Ride was ridden by Gary Stevens for trainer Ron McAnally. The 4YO son of Ride The Rails remains undefeated in 5 career starts (including Gr1 wins in both Argentina’s Joaquin Stakes de Anchorena & the San Isidoro by 8 lengths). He is 1 of 5 starters (all winners) out of unraced Candy Stripes mare Candy Girl & is a half-brother to group stakes winner Candy Apple. (July 7) Falbrav Wins UK Gr1 Eclipse Stakes Japan Cup winner Falbrav (Fairy King-Gift Of The Night, by Slewpy) registered his 5th Gr1 victory & gained “sweet revenge” over Nayef by winning the Gr1 Eclipse Stakes (10 furlongs) at Sandown in England, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Falbrav (ridden by Darryll Holland for trainer Luca Cumani ) defeated Nayef (Gulch-Height Of Fashion, by Bustino) & Kentucky-bred Kaietuer (Marlin-Strong Embrace, by Regal Embrace). Nayef had defeated Falbrav last month in the Gr1 Prince Of Wales Stakes At Royal Ascot. Falbrav (a 5YO owned by Luciano Salice’s Italian-based Scuderia Rencati & Gary Tanaka) has also won the Gr1 Prix d’Ispahan at Longchamp in May & both 2002’s Gr1 Premio Presidente della Repubblica at Rome & Gr1 Gran Premio Milao at Milan. Overall he now has 10 wins from 20 starts for over US$3 million prize-money. Bred in Ireland by Azienda Agricola Francesca, Falbrav is 1 of 4 starters (all winners) out of stakes-placed winning Slewpy mare Gift Of The Night. (July 7) Coolmore Shuttler’s Triumph At Lancashire Oaks Former Coolmore Shuttler Desert King’s 3YO daughter Place Rouge (Desert King-Palmeraie, by Lear Fan) “made a one horse act” of England’s Gr3 Lancashire Oaks at Haydock Park “with a runaway win” reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Place Rouge (ridden by Robert Halvin for trainer John Gosden) won by 5 lengths from Flying Wando (by Alzao) & Kentucky-bred New Orchid (by Quest For Fame). Bred by Dayton Investments, Place Rouge was sold for 280,000 guineas at last year's Tattersalls December Sales & is now raced by William Farish (who enjoyed Gr1 English Oaks success at Epsom last month with Casual Look). Place Rouge is a half-sister to Pushkin (winner of the Gr2 Prix Maurice de Nieul) & her dam is a half-sister to Peinture Bleue (winner of the Gr2 Long Island Handicap & dam of Peintre Celebre, Champion European 3YO of Europe in 1997 when winner of France’s Gr1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe & Prix du Jockey-Club). Place Rouge's granddam Petroleuse is a Listed winning half-sister to Champion Pawneese (winner of both the Oaks & Prix de Diane, as well as a King George VI & Queen Elizabeth II Stakes). The winner’s sire & Classic winner Desert King (Danehill-Sabaah, by Nureyev) shuttled to Australia for 5 seasons between 1998-2002 serving 579 local mares. (July 7) Coolmore’s Peintre Celebre Son Wins Gr1 German Derby Gestut Schlenderhan bred 3YO colt Dai Jin (Peintre Celebre-Dawlah, by Shirley Heights) “produced a storming run in the home straight to race away” with yesterday's Gr1 Deutsches Derby (2400m) at Hamburg, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Dai Jin (ridden by Olivier Peslier) won easing down near the finish, defeating Ransom O'War (by Red Ransom) & Storm Trooper (by Monsun). Dai Jin hails from the family of 1978 Kentucky Oaks winner White Star Line (third dam of Dai Jin). Dai Jin is from the 1st crop of European Champion 3YO of 1997 Peintre Celebre (Nureyev-Peinture Bleue, by Alydar), who shuttles between Coolmore in Ireland & Australia. (July 7) Wyndholm’s Lake Coniston Records German Gr3 Success Victoria’s Wyndholm Park shuttler Lake Coniston had a big weekend with the win by 6YO gelding Capricho (Lake Coniston-Star Spectacle, by Spectacular Bid) in Germany’s Gr3 Holsten-Trophy (1200m) at Hamburg, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Capricho (ridden by Jimmy Quinn for trainer John Akehurst) won from Welsh Emperor (by Emperor Jones) & Fiepes Shuffle (by Big Shuffle). He now has 6 wins from 23 starts overall. Capricho's dam is a half-sister to Gr2 Prix de Pomone winner Whitehaven, as well as Lustre (dam of Oaks d'Italia winner Valley Of Gold). Capricho's granddam White Star Line won the Gr1 Kentucky Oaks & is a half-sister to Prix Morny winner Filiberto & Fairway Fun. Winning sire & Gr1 winner Lake Coniston (Bluebird-Persian Polly, by Persian Bold) shuttles between Collin Stud at Newmarket in England & Wyndholm Park at Ballarat in Victoria. (July 7) Fasliyev Lands Another 2YO European Stakes Boom Coolmore shuttler & freshman sire Fasliyev added another European stakes victory when his 2YO filly Much Faster (Fasliyev-Interruption, by Zafonic) “maintained her unbeaten (in 3 starts) record with ease” in France’s Gr3 Prix du Bois (1000m) at Deauville, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Much Faster (ridden by Thierry Thulliez for trainer Pascal Bary) “outsped her rivals to win without any serious pressure easing down” from Leila (by Lahint) & Sister Moonshine (by Piccolo). Winning sire Fasliyev (Nureyev-Mr P's Princess, by Mr Prospector) is currently Leading 1st Season Sire in Europe & is also the sire of Royal Ascot winner Russian Valour. (July 7) US$4 Million Keeneland Sale Topper Wins Warhol, the 3YO son of Saint Ballado for whom Demi O’Byrne paid a sale-topping US$4 million at the 2001 Keeneland July Select Yearling Sale on behalf of Michael Tabor, won his 1st race (in his 4th career start) over 10 furlongs at Leopardstown in Ireland, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Trained by Aidan O’Brien & bred in Kentucky by Aaron Jones, Warhol is out of Gr3-winning Batonnier mare Charma Gendarme & is a half-brother to multiple Gr1 winner Tout Charmant & 3 other winners. (July 7) Godolphin’s Romantic Liason Dies During UK Race Godolphin Racing’s Romantic Liason (the 3YO daughter of Primo Dominie who won the Gr3 Queen Mary Stakes at Royal Ascot last year) collapsed & died 50 metres from the winning post in the Porcelanosa Sprint Stakes at Sandown Park in Britain, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. At her previous start, she finished 11th behind Choisir in the Gr2 King’s Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot on June 17. Bred in Great Britain by Bearstone Stud, Romantic Liason was out of Danehill mare My First Romance. (July 7) Dynasty Wins South Africa’s Gr1 Durban July Dynasty & Yard-Arm (the only 3YOs in the 20-horse field) fought out the finish of South Africa’s biggest race, the R1 Million (A$200,000) Gr1 Durban July (2200m) at Greyville, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Despite starting from barrier 20, Dynasty (Fort Wood-Blakes Affair, by Commodore Blake) won by 3/4 of a length from Gr1 South African Derby winner Yard-Arm (by Western Winter) & Red Badge (by Badger Land); Free My Heart (South Africa’s 2002 Horse-Of-The-Year) finished 8th. Dynasty was ridden by HK-based jockey Robbie Fradd for trainer Dean Kannemeyer. It was Dynasty’s 4th Gr1 success (including the Gr1 Cape Derby) in 2003. Bred by Mary Slack at Wilgerbosdrift Stud, Dynasty now has 8 wins from 10 starts. He is a brother to Gr2 winner Sequoia. His sire & French Gr1 winner Fort Wood (Sadler's Wells-Fall Aspen, by Pretense) stands at Mauritzfontein Stud in South Africa. (July 7) Tara’s Touch Wins South African Gr1 Garden Provence Stakes Tara’s Touch won South Africa’s Gr1 Garden Province Stakes (1600m) at Greyville, reported thoroughbredtimes.com, the “2nd group win for the 3YO daughter of Tara’s Halls in the space of 3 weeks.” Tara’s Touch had been “controversially disqualified after winning the Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas (1600m) earlier this season.” Tara’s Touch (ridden by Glen Hatt for trainer Joey Ramsden & owner-breeder Rob Knuppe) won from Rainbow Flag & Secret Heart. Knuppe is also majority shareholder in the filly’s sire Tara’s Halls (a son of Fairy King). Tara’s Touch is out of unplaced Best By Test mare Best Gem & is a full sister to Gr3 winner Dance Of Diamonds; immediate family members include Gr1 winners Priceless Asset & State Treasure. (July 7) Venezuela’s My Own Business Wins 20th Group Race In Record Time My Own Business (Venezuela’s 2002 Horse-Of-The-Year & champion older horse) scored his 20th career group victory in the Gr1 Clasico LXXVI Fuerza Armada (2 miles) at Hipodromo La Rinconada in Caracas, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 6YO son of Voyageur won by 3.75 lengths from Gran Hermano in 3min 22.38sec, 4 seconds faster than the old track record. Exuberant trainer Antonio Bellardi declared: "My Own Business is the best horse Venezuela has ever produced." My Own Business now has 35 wins (22 stakes races) in 47 career starts (including 2 stakes victories in Puerto Rico); however he was winless in 6 starts in the US in 2001-02. Owner Rocco Sebastiani added: "There is still plenty left in the tank for My Own Business." Bred by Haras Vista Hermosa, My Own Business is out of winning Verbatim mare Word Medley & is a half-brother to stakes winner Gran Corredor; notable members of his immediate family include 1983 Gr1 Florida Derby winner Croeso & multiple Gr3 winner & sire Ide. (July 7) Jeune King Prawn Attracts Quality Bookings Robert Alteri at Victoria’s Newlands Thoroughbreds advises that his 1st season sire Jeune King Prawn “has been at Newlands (near Seymour) for 3 months now, has let down into a magnificent stallion & is available for inspection at any time.” Alteri confirmed new season bookings so far include: a Gr2 winner; the dam of Sir Boom (Gr2 winner & Gr1 placed); the dam of Brawny Spirit (Gr1 winner); the dam of Buddies Power (winner of over $500,000 in HK); & 3 half-sister's to Gr1 winners. (July 7) Freedman Explains Move Out Of Melbourne Leading Victorian trainer Lee Freedman moved from his Melbourne stables to a 55ha private property at Rye on the Mornington Peninsula 6 months ago. It boasts 2 tracks (grass & sand), 70 stable boxes, 30 day-yards, 17 paddocks & 10 covered yards, where “we have between 180-200 horses on our books, with about 80 in work at any one time.” Asked to compare the advantages of “training at your own place, rather than using the established facilities on metropolitan tracks”, he told The Daily Telegraph: “There are fewer pests & better tracks for starters! Seriously, we can work our horses in our own time. We set our own schedules. Plus this is a very competitive market. We had to have a point of difference. The point of difference is this place: something that we thought would be a positive move & that people would look upon differently to just having a horse in the city. That’s exactly how it has worked out.” (July 7) Mummify Backed For $1 Million In Melb Cup Doubles Meanwhile Lee Freedman’s exciting stayer Mummify will cost prominent doubles bookmaker Michael Eskander “more than $1 million” if he wins the Caulfield & Melbourne Cups this spring, reported The Daily Telegraph. Eskander “has been stung by consistent support for the SA Derby winner since markets were framed.” As a result, he has slashed the Mummify Cups double from an opening quote of 250-1 down to 100-1. Mummify has also joined Clangalang, Magical Miss & Media Puzzle on the top line of early Caulfield Cup betting at 14-1. (July 7) ARB 1: Wagering Policy The Australian Racing Board met in Melbourne last week & Andrew Harding advised that among the “major matters dealt with” was Wagering Policy: “The Board addressed issues relating to leakage of revenues to unauthorised wagering operators. It reaffirmed its position that the current exemption for wagering from the Commonwealth Government’s ban on interactive gambling services should be made conditional on an Australian licence being held by the operator. This licence should be based on an Australia-wide multi-lateral agreement, the terms of which should include requirements that consent be obtained both from the State producing the racing on which that wagering is based & the State where people are placing bets. The Board has made a case to the Commonwealth Government that the Interactive Gambling Act is the appropriate vehicle to make licensing mandatory for every wagering operator trading within Australia.” (July 7) ARB 2: Jockey Vest Research The Australian Racing Board also discussed Research Into Jockeys’ Vests & Andrew Harding advised: “The Board received an update report on research it has commissioned from the University of Adelaide into the suitability of protective vests currently in use by Australian jockeys. The decision in 1999 to make protective vests compulsory for riders was a significant step forward in injury protection. Nonetheless, the Board is committed to an on-going process of reviewing its safety requirements, to ensure that the highest possible standards of injury protection are met in the best interests of the welfare of Australian jockeys.” (July 7) ARB 3: Race Meeting Schedules The Australian Racing Board also discussed Scheduling Of Race Meetings To Respect Significant Commemorative Occasions & Andrew Harding advised: “The Board agreed that the industry should approach Sky Channel for its co-operation in the scheduling of race meetings to prevent broadcasts intruding on racecourse ceremonies held to respect significant commemorative occasions. Relevant ceremonies will include those held at race meetings on Anzac Day & will be limited to a small number of events that can be truly described as significant national commemorative occasions.” (July 7) ARB 4: Cloned Horses Ban The Australian Racing Board also discussed the Ban On Cloned Horses & Andrew Harding advised: “The Board enacted an amendment to the Australian Rules Of Racing to enforce a ban on cloned horses from competing in thoroughbred races. Where future genetic technologies can offer real benefits in terms of dealing with serious disease issues, then without question they will be looked at with an open mind; but the idea of simply cloning horses is fundamentally at odds with what racing stands for. The sport of racing is built on the quest of breeding a champion: that is every owner’s dream. Racing has no interest in running off facsimile copies of champions.” (July 7) ARB 5: Jockey Welfare Improvements The Australian Racing Board also discussed Jockey Welfare & Andrew Harding advised: “The Board received a report of the Working Party it has established to provide recommendations on improvements to jockeys’ welfare. The report will be considered by each State Principal Racing Authority, with a collective view considered at the Board’s next meeting. Racing Victoria Limited earlier this year implemented a package of measures in response to a local inquiry into issues relating to jockeys’ welfare.” (July 7) ARB 6: Insurance Captive Fund The Australian Racing Board also discussed an Insurance Captive Fund & Andrew Harding advised: “The Board received a report on the establishment of a national captive fund for public liability insurance. The cost of public liability insurance to the industry has been spiralling for several years, flying in the face of a good record of safety established by the industry. The challenge was to think outside the box & find a more intelligent & cost-effective means of dealing with insuring against public liability claims. The result has been the establishment of a captive fund, initially including NSW, Queensland & Victoria with other States to follow in future years. On conservative estimates, this will in its first year represent a saving to the industry of almost $3 million.” (July 7) Muswellbrook Tops NSW TAB Country Turnover NSW TAB “betting trends for the last financial year” reveal Muswellbrook Race Club “has maintained its ranking as the biggest (NSW country race club) money spinner in off-course turnover” for the 8th successive year, reported The Sydney Morning Herald. Muswellbrook turned over almost $20 million on its 17 TAB meetings. (July 7) STC’s Lindsay Davies Retires Long-serving Sydney Turf Club track manager Lindsay Davies officiated at his last race meeting at Rosehill on Saturday. He told The Daily Telegraph: I’m turning 65 on Thursday & although I didn’t have to retire, I just decided the time was right.” Davies was responsible for the successful reconstruction of both Rosehill Gardens & Canterbury Park racetracks. (July 7) O’Reilly’s Book Full At Waikato The "book full" sign has gone up for Waikato Stud’s boom stallion O’Reilly (Last Tycoon-Courtza, by Pompeii Court). O’Reilly (current leader on the NZ 3YO Sires’ table & 3rd on the NZ General Sires’ list) has again proven immensely popular, despite his service fee increasing from NZ$15,000 to NZ$22,000 for the coming season. Waikato Stud manager Mark Chittick told NZ Thoroughbred Marketing: "It’s great to get another huge vote of support for him. And it’s quite notable that about a third of his book are Australian-owned mares." (July 7) Kiwis Clean Up In Singapore The NZ breeding industry “enjoyed one of its best weekends ever in Singapore” winning 7 of the 10 races at yesterday’s Kranji meeting, reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. The main race, the Lianhe Zaobao Cup (1400m), was taken out by Deputy Governor 5YO gelding Corleone; winner of 7 of his 14 starts in Singapore, Corleone was bred by Auckland’s Tim Harrison. Corleone's dam, the Raise A Crown mare My Good Omen, won 7 races from 1400-1600m (including the Gr2 Gordon Wyborn NZ Thoroughbred Breeders' Stakes). Deputy Governor stands at Chequers Stud in Cambridge & is also the sire of the previous weekend's Gr3 Singapore Derby Trial winner Zirna. Other NZ-bred winners on the program were Goldvision (Sir Tristram-Pleasing Lass), Bintang Reziki (O'Reilly-Revive The Phoenix), Almosfamous (Danasinga-Katrina Belle), Fonda (Desert Sun-Rage Up), Muscle Man (Rhythm-Togari's Pride) & Destiny Prized (Prized-Eloquent Lady). In addition, the day before (Saturday) 2 other NZ-bred horses also won in Singapore: Flashman (Volksraad-Fantasy Flight) & Mr Fixit (Stark South-Lucinda Lace). (July 7) Cambridge Shuttlers Land European Double And NZ’s Cambridge Stud shuttle stallions Stravinsky & Cape Cross both recorded weekend winners in Europe, reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. Stravinsky’s Acciacatura won over 1200m at Ireland’s Leopardstown meeting; Acciacatura is the 2nd winner out of Listed placed Lady In Waiting (a daugher of Princess Rooney who won 5 Gr1 races in the US). And for Cape Cross, Cedaberg won over 1200m at Chepstow in the UK; he is the 3rd foal of Sadler's Wells mare Crinolette. (July 7) Kiwi Horseman’s Bargain Buy The recent victory by NZ-bred Confluence (Paris Opera-Tristrams Jewel, by Sir Tristram) in Malaysia’s richest race, the RM1.5 million (A$600,000) Gr1 Selangor Gold Cup (2000m), confirmed the shrewd buying instincts of versatile Kiwi horseman Lee Somervell. He was instrumental in Confluence finding her way to Malaysia, where her 10 wins in the best company (also including the Coronation Cup, Yang Di Pertua Negeri Gold Cup & Piala Emas Sultan Selangor) have made her the most successful mare ever to race there. The 7YO was purchased by Somervell for just NZ$10,000 as a yearling, after which he broke her in, trained her to win a trial & then sold her on to clients of Kuala Lumpur trainer Francis Nathan. Somervell (who trained for several years in Cambridge & also spent time in Malaysia himself) told NZ Thoroughbred Marketing: "I’ve been supplying Francis with horses for the past 8 years. He is a superb horseman - one of the few who trains mares up there - & it’s great to see this one do best of all from the horses I have sent up to him.” (July 7) Jeune Homme To Stay In Chile Shuttle stallion Jeune Homme (Nureyev-Alydariel, by Alydar) has been purchased by Haras Carioca & will remain in Chile, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. The Gr2 Citation Handicap winner began his stud career at Haras d'Etreham in France, where his 1st crop was foaled in 1997. (July 7) Dubai’s Selvaratnam Moves Stable To Ireland Dhruba Selvaratnam, among the most successful trainers in Dubai for the past decade, “is to set up shop next door” to Aidan O’Brien’s landmark Ballydoyle stables in Ireland, reported racingpost.co.uk. Selvaratnam, 52, will be based at Rosegreen, the tiny County Tipperary village that adjoins O’Brien’s famous stables. He aims “to establish an owner-base prior to the main yearling sales in September & October & to have his 1st Irish runners next year.” Selvaratnam explained: “I spent 13 years training in Dubai, but my contract has not been renewed because there is a lot of 'Emiratisation' going on out there & I am originally from Sri Lanka. I regard Rosegreen as my home as I worked for Vincent (O’Brien) for 10 years. He gave me land & I built a house there. Rosegreen is also where I will train. I will be building boxes & gallops on the land, as well as putting in an all-weather gallop. I won’t train over jumps, only on the Flat. I’ve been involved in that for the past 35 years, so I am going to stick with it. One or 2 owners from Dubai have promised to put horses with me, as have a few from Saudi Arabia.” Selvaratnam was champion trainer 4 times in Dubai; his major wins include the Dubai Golden Shaheen on Dubai World Cup day with Ramp And Rave in 1999 & Mudallel in 1998. (July 7) Irish Crowds & Betting Turnover Rise An increase in the number of fixtures & races in Ireland “has contributed to significant growth in attendance & betting figures, according to statistics issued for the first 6 months of this year,” reported racingpost.co.uk. Total attendances at Irish race meetings between January 1-June 30 were up 61,657 on last year, a 13% rise. Betting with on-course bookmakers was up 15% & tote betting was up 18%. Horse Racing Ireland chief executive Brian Kavanagh commented: “The figures are most encouraging, taken against the background of a general economic slowdown. Obviously the extra fixtures included in the program this year have achieved their objective, in providing more opportunities for owners & their horses, resulting in additional prize-money, sponsorship, attendances & betting.” Prize-money was up 10.6% & sponsorship up 11.4%. (July 7) Bath Race Recalls Famous Francasal 'Sting' Monday Odd Spot: One of the most famous attempted betting coups of the 20th Century is being marked at Bath in Britain today, “50 years after the daring bid to sting the bookmakers,” recalled racingpost.co.uk. The scam involved a rag & scrap metal dealer cutting a telephone wire to the racecourse to stop off-course bookmakers sending money to reduce a horse's starting price, as his accomplices piled thousands of pounds on it to win at 10-1. The plotters had already swapped the horse Francasal, for another Santa Amaro “that was bound to win & bring them a pay-out worth well over £1 million in today's money.” But though the horse did its bit, “those responsible were quickly caught & subsequently sentenced to up to 3 years in jail at the Old Bailey.” One of the few people involved with the horse who did not know what was happening was the jockey & retired bookmaker Brian Griffiths has come up with a way to mark the half-century: he is sponsoring a race in honour of the jockey (his late father-in-law) almost 50 years to the day since the conspiracy. Hence the Billy Gilchrist Knew Nothing About It Francasal Selling Stakes will be run at Bath today. Griffiths has a framed copy of the report in the following day's London Daily Mirror newspaper & will present it to the owner of the winning horse, along with a copy of racing journalist David Ashforth's book Ringers & Rascals, which tells the story. (July 7) Northerly Named Aust Horse-Of-The-Year Perth trainer Fred Kersley’s superstar Northerly was named 2003 Australian ‘Champion Racehorse-Of-The-Year ‘ at the Crown Palladium in Melbourne last night. Northerly, who started 14 times during the season for 7 wins (including the Gr1 Cox Plate, Gr1 Caulfield Cup, Gr1 Australian Cup & Gr1 Underwood Stakes), 3 2nds & over $5.5 million in prize-money, polled 132 of a possible 159 votes (from senior racing administrators & members of the racing media) to convincingly defeat Lonhro, with 27 votes. Northerly was also named Champion Middle Distance Horse & won the Most Popular Racehorse award (decided by a public vote). (July 4) Aust 2003 Champion Award Winners List The full list of last night’s award winners is: Champion Racehorse-Of-The-Year: Northerly (132 votes); Lonhro (27). Champion 2YO: Hasna (128 votes); Polar Success (30). Champion 3YO: Helenus (73 votes); Yell (54); Choisir (17). Champion Sprinter: Yell (87 votes); Spinning Hill (38); Choisir (27). Champion Middle Distance: Northerly (89 votes); Lonhro (70). Champion Stayer: Media Puzzle (94 votes); Northerly (65). International Performer: Choisir. Most Popular Racehorse: Northerly (57.9% of votes); Lonhro (26.9%). Racing Personality of the Year: Damien Oliver. Champion Gr1 Jockey: Darren Beadman. Champion Gr1 Trainer: John Hawkes. (July 4) Aust 2003 Champion Breeding Details Breeding details of the key award winners: Champion 2YO: Hasna (Snippets-They Say, by Thirty Six Red). Champion 3YO: Helenus (Helissio-Worldwide Elsie, by Java Gold). Champion Sprinter: Yell (Anabaa-Vocalist, by Bluebird). Champion Middle Distance: Northerly (Serheed-North Bell, by Bellwater). Champion Stayer: Media Puzzle (Theatrical-Market Slide, by Gulch). International Performer: Choisir (Danehill Dancer-Great Selection, by Lunchtime). Most Popular Racehorse: Northerly (Serheed-North Bell, by Bellwater). (July 4) Australia & NZ Classifications Update Meanwhile the Australia-New Zealand Classifications Committee (represented by 8 senior handicappers) has finalised its June Classifications update. Provisional category leaders for the current 2002-03 racing season (to the end of June) are: Leading 2YO & 2YO Filly Hasna (Snippets-They Say, by Thirty Six Red) 105. Leading 2YO Colt/Gelding Maroofity (Maroof-Howudai, by Don't Forget Me) 101. Leading 3YO Choisir (Danehill Dancer-Great Selection, by Lunchtime) 118. Leading 3YO Filly Private Steer (Danehill Dancer-Lisheenowne, by Semipalatinsk) 111. Leading Older Horse Northerly (Serheed-North Bell, by Bellwater) 124. Leading Mare Sunline (Desert Sun-Songline, by Western Symphony) 117. (July 4) Choisir Rating 1: Bowler Explains Conundrum At the same time senior Australian handicapper Jim Bowler has provided an official explanation for what he terms the “Choisir Rating Conundrum”. Bowler acknowledged: “There has probably been no greater point of discussion this year than that surrounding Choisir’s international pre-race & post-race ratings following his historic Ascot Gr2 King’s Stand/Gr1 Golden Jubilee Stakes double.” Bowler explained: “Central to any comment on Australasian ratings is the fact that any assessments have repercussions in terms of actual handicaps allotted at the highest level. This is not the case in Europe, where such ratings are only viewed for comparative purposes rather than for actual competition. As such, any post-race assessment has to be accepted by each country in terms of that rating’s impact upon domestic circumstance.” (July 4) Choisir Rating 2: International Credibility Issue Jim Bowler said Choisir’s export rating of 112 was reviewed by the Australia-NZ Classifications Committee & noted: “The rating stems from analysing his 9 black-type runs this season, which yielded wins in the Gr2 Linlithgow Stakes 1200m (beating an erratic Falvelon by half a length) & the Gr1 Lightning Stakes 1000m (defeating Spinning Hill & Azevedo) - significantly both run over the Flemington straight course. His other runs were 4 3rds (to Rare Insight, Helenus, Planchet & River Dove), a 4th & a 5th (both to Snowland) & a 6th in the Gr1 Newmarket Handicap.” Bowler then cautioned: “Allocating higher ratings has, in Australasian terms, a direct flow-on effect in that they mean greater actual weights allotted in black-type events. It is also important to maintain Australia’s credibility, in terms of export ratings, by accurately assessing all such horses. Australian ratings have always been highly regarded in international contests, with the likes of Falvelon (twice) & Sunline forming the benchmarks for post-race results.” (July 4) Choisir Rating 3: From 112 To 118 But what does it all mean in terms of actual weights allotted? Jim Bowler concluded: “We agreed with his 117+ post-race King’s Stand assessment. But does he improve a further 6lbs in 4 days to 123, by virtue of his Gr1 Golden Jubilee success? Or is it more relevant to re-rate him for both wins, in terms of a suitable weight allocation for a Newmarket/Galaxy type event run under Australian conditions? We believe a rating of 118 better reflects the latter &, most importantly, sits comfortably with all current 2002-03, as well as historical, ANZ assessments. This would give him a Gr1 weight of 59kg in a Gr1 feature sprint handicap, or a rise of 4.5kg for being beaten 4 lengths by Belle Du Jour in this year’s Newmarket Handicap.” (July 4) Choisir Rating 4: English Derby Comparison Jim Bowler ended his reasoning with this thought: “It is interesting to note English Derby winner Kris Kin had a pre-race rating of 86 before he won the Gr3 Chester Dee Stakes. This was lifted to 108 for the win & was, in turn, further reviewed to 122 for his Derby victory. The British Horseracing Board Sprint Handicapper has now submitted Choisir as a provisional 123 horse. In terms of perception, I would find it very hard to convince people that our 3YO, who has won 2 of 9 Gr1 starts, is now rated 1 pound superior to the English Derby winner.” (July 4) Choisir Moves To Top Of International Sprint Rankings Meanwhile Choisir has moved to the top of the International Sprint Rankings following his win in the Gr1 Golden Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot. The latest rankings update from the US National Thoroughbred Racing Association & Breeders’ Cup Limited puts Choisir on 122, moving him above outstanding US colt Congaree (by Arazi) & UK Golden Jubilee runner-up Airwave (by Air Express). The Top 10 in the latest International Sprint rankings are: 1: Choisir (Aus) Paul Perry 122. 2: Congaree (US) Bob Baffert 121. 3: Airwave (GB) Henry Candy 119. 4: Aldebaran (US) Robert Frankel 117. 5: Avanzado (US) Doug O'Neill 115. 6: Posse (US) Steven Asmussen 114. 7: Midas Eyes (US) Robert Frankel 113. 7: Kona Gold (US) Bruce Headley 113. 9: My Cousin Matt (GB) Scott Lake 112. 9: Carson Hollow (US) Richard Dutrow 112. (July 4) Choisir Early Favourite For UK’s Gr1 July Cup And in the UK Choisir is listed as 2-1 favourite in British betting firm Coral’s early markets for next week’s Gr1 July Cup at Newmarket. Airwave, the outstanding filly who finished 2nd behind Choisir when favorite in the Gr1 Golden Jubilee Stakes at Ascot, is next at 7-2 followed by impressive recent Newmarket winner Trade Fair at 4-1. (July 4) Fallon On Airwave Against Choisir Top UK jockey Kieren Fallon has been given “the task of halting the charge of history-making Australian speedster Choisir” by riding flying local filly & 2nd favourite Airwave in next week’s Gr1 July Cup at Newmarket, reported racingpost.co.uk. (Airwave’s regular rider Dane O'Neill is due to serve a suspension next week.) Fallon’s recent winning run includes Gr1 victories in the UK 1,000 Guineas, English Derby, Ascot Gold Cup & Coronation Stakes. Irish jockey Johnny Murtagh will again ride Choisir. Fallon declared the booking on Airwave (winner of Sandown's Temple Stakes) was "music to my ears" because “obviously any filly who has beaten Russian Rhythm must be very impressive indeed." (July 4) Half-Price Newmarket Entry For Aust Passport Holders And Newmarket Racecourse hopes to attract strong expatriate support for Choisir at next Thursday’s Gr1 July Cup (Europe’s premier sprint) by offering half-price admission to all Australian passport holders. Newmarket managing director Lisa Hancock explained: "Australians love supporting their many sporting superstars, especially against us ‘Poms’! We hope as many as possible will come to Newmarket next Thursday to see if Choisir can put Europe's best sprinters to the sword once again & complete an unprecedented sprint hat-trick in just a 23-day period. It would be a remarkable achievement if he can & would unquestionably give him the title of Champion Sprinter in Europe." (July 4) Choisir Live On Aust TV Finally, Choisir’s “attempt to clean sweep England’s feature sprint races” will be televised live by Sky Channel, reported The Daily Telegraph. “In a historic first for Australian viewers, Sky Channel will show 2 English race meetings on July 10: the premier Newmarket fixture & races from Folkestone.” Coverage will start at 10.45pm & conclude after the July Cup is run at 1.45am. (July 4) Aust Stud Offer For US Stakes Winner US stallion Freespool (winner of 5 stakes races) has been retired due to a tendon injury & owner Scott Guenther of Desperado Stables revealed he has received stud offers from Australia, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Freespool has not raced since his 2nd in last year’s Gr1 Bing Crosby Breeders’ Cup Handicap at Del Mar; he retires with 9 wins (including successive Gr3 El Conejo Handicaps at Santa Anita) from 25 starts. Trainer Ted West declared: "He was a very unique horse. He was just so fast & had so much speed, you couldn’t harness it. Sometimes that worked against him. Even during training you couldn’t slow him down." Meanwhile Guenther confirmed Desperado Stables “is exploring several options for Freespool’s stallion career” including “several offers from thoroughbred breeding operations in California & Australia, & quarter horse farms in New Mexico.” Bred in Kentucky, Freespool is a son of Geiger Counter out of stakes placed Olden Times mare Broadtail. (July 4) Widden’s Belong To Me Adds US Stakes Win Widden Stud shuttler Belong To Me recorded a US stakes winner when 3YO filly Ocean Drive (Belong To Me-Clever But Costly, by Clever Trick) won the Listed Gaviola Stakes at Belmont Park, reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Ocean Drive defeated Beautiful America (by Dixie Brass) & Broadway Lady (by Ordway). The Gaviola is the 4th stakes win for Ocean Drive, who has won 5 of her only 6 starts. She is a half-sister to Gr1 Futurity Stakes winner Traitor, Listed winner Beavers Nose & Clever Bertie (dam of Gr2 Prioress Stakes winner Hurricane Bertie). Her sire Belong To Me (Danzig-Belonging, by Exclusive Native) shuttles between Lane's End Farm in Kentucky & Widden Stud in the NSW Hunter Valley. (July 4) Sixty Seconds Racing In US Former Kiwi racemare Sixty Seconds (bred by NZ’s Te Parae Stud) will take on 8 rivals in the US$250,000 Gr2 New York Handicap (2000m) at Belmont Park in New York today, reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. The Centaine mare (trained in Australasia by Roger James) won the Gr1 Arrowfield Stud Stakes in Sydney & Gr2 Fayette Park Championship Stakes at Ellerslie in NZ during her 3YO campaign in the 2001-02 season. (July 4) Stravinsky Lands 2 More In Europe Coolmore Ireland-Cambride NZ shuttler Stravinsky has notched 2 more European winners this week, reported racenet.com.au: 2YO filly Breezit saluted at Brighton in England; & 24 hours later, Venables took a 1200m event at Kempton. Venables is highly regarded by trainer Richie Hannon (who paid 175,000 guineas as a yearling on behalf of Team Havana) & is now being aimed at the Gr2 Gimcrack Stakes (1200m). (July 4) Rosehill Drug Tests Clear NSW Thoroughbred Racing Board stewards have announced that all drug tests conducted at Sydney’s Rosehill Gardens track last Monday “have been returned negative”. The tests were part of continued Out-Of-Competition testing (introduced to Australian racing last October) that has seen stables at Sydney’s major metropolitan tracks (Randwick, Rosehill & Warwick Farm) subject to ‘dawn raids’ over recent months. The policy “is designed to ensure a level playing field, so that performance-enhancing drugs which may still affect the performance of a horse, yet are not detectable or are difficult to detect on race-day, are not a part of racing.” (July 4) Golden Rose Attracts Star Nominations Nominations for the Sydney Turf Club’s new spring highlight for 3YOs, the $1 million Golden Rose, include 15 of the 16 leading 2YOs which contested the $3 million Golden Slipper at Rosehill Gardens on April 12. Only Halibery is missing. The inaugural Golden Rose will be run at Rosehill on August 20. (July 4) Chatswood Pastures Chemically Analysed Victoria’s Chatswood Stud at Seymour has moved to back its claim as “the best place for a horse to be reared, agisted, prepared or spelled” by having its pastures (”1000 acres of lush river flats & rolling hills”) analysed for “quality & energy levels” by Peter Huntington of Kentucky Equine Research. Chatswood managing director Greg Willis explained: “Done once a year, this exercise enables us to monitor our pasture management & available nutrients. And the results this year were quite outstanding. When broken down, our pasture is 35.5% protein & our relative feed value is 190%! Talk about highly digestible energy levels! The calcium/phosphorous ratio is extremely well balanced for pasture & our high iron & copper levels show that it is as good as any in Australia.” (July 4) Invincible Spirit & Genuine Head Exciting Roster Meanwhile Chatswood’s 2003 roster (standing stallions in association with NSW’s Woodlands Stud, Japan’s Shadai Stallion Station & the Irish National Stud) includes: Invincible Spirit (Green Desert-Rafha): In his 1st season at the Irish National Stud, they had to re-open his book because he’d worked through his maximum number of mares too early! A Gr1 winning Champion sprinter who smashed a 1200m record at Ireland’s Curragh by an astonishing 2 seconds; his sire Green Desert was also a champion sprinter & now a champion sire & also a sire of sires; & his dam Rafha was a French Oaks winner & then 2001 Broodmare-Of-The-Year. Genuine (Sunday Silence-Croupier Lady): Genuine has racked up 80 individual winners in Japan (highlighted by 9 Stakes winners & 5 Stakes performers) & is on track to average over 30 winners per racing crop. He remains the best miler sired by Sunday Silence & his sire’s leading stakes earner at stud in Australasia. Hemingway (Spectrum-Welsh Love): Unbeaten on the track & outstanding pedigree, with sire Spectrum churning out Group winners again this year & dam Welsh Love producing another Group winner in Ireland. His in-foal mares have been selling for more than 6 times his 2003 fee. Racer’s Edge (Rory’s Jester-God’s Girl): He has sired 50 individual winners in Australia this season (among 54 winners world-wide). Still the best sire son of Rory’s Jester, he is also the sire of exciting Singapore prospect Storm Racer. Dangerous (Danehill-Antwerp): His 1st yearlings looked smashing going through the sales ring, where they fetched up to $110,000. Diatribe (Brief Truce-Gabbing Gloria): Multiple Gr1 winner standing his 2nd season; connections look forward to his 1st foals this year from a magnificent book of mares covered in 2002. (July 4) Racing Victoria Responds To Koch Criticism Racing Victoria chairman Graham Duff has expressed his “concern about a media release” issued by Liberal Shadow Racing spokesman David Koch regarding Victorian country racing. Koch’s release was highly critical of “a number of important initiatives that Racing Victoria is advancing for improving the management of country racing & thoroughbred training.” Duff responded: “Racing Victoria is putting into place fundamental and sustainable measures for securing the future prosperity of country racing.” Duff said Racing Victoria’s Operation Destiny “is a multi-faceted approach to improving the viability of country racing clubs by taking advantage of regional economies of scale. The core principle of the project is to maintain & enhance the integrity, identity & independence of country racing clubs by working co-operatively on a regional basis. All 24 clubs within the Gippsland, Wimmera-Mallee & Goulburn-Murray Regions have joined in the initiative & will soon be receiving the benefits of improved skills & allocation of resources, reduced costs & better managed risk. The project is to be rolled-out across the remainder of the State over the next year.” (July 4) Exploding Prospect’s Counties Treble Miswaki stallion Exploding Prospect (based at NZ’s Ohau Stud) “sired the winners of 3 of the last 4 races at Wednesday’s Counties meeting to again demonstrate his consistency,” reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. Former Gr3 winner Blown Away won over 2100m; 3YO gelding Explode Away won over 1400m; & 4YO mare Power Fillie bolted home by 5.5 lengths over 1400m. Exploding Prospect commenced his NZ stud career in 1992 at Phillip Brown’s Ancroft Stud at Matamata & “developed into a prolific sire of successful racehorses in NZ, Australia & Asia. Representing the successful Mr Prospector sire line, he now stands (for NZ$2,000 plus GST) at Ohau Stud at Levin (alongside Sadler’s Wells son Victory Dance) & last season served 40 mares. From “modest foal crops” he boasts a 40% winners-to-foals ratio. Exploding Prospect’s star performer & Gr2 winner Coup Ray “is expected to start his Singapore campaign shortly under leading trainer Laurie Laxon.” (July 4) Southern Halo To Stand Permanently In Argentina Southern Halo, leading sire in Argentina for the past 8 seasons, will return permanently in August to that nation where he began his stud career “thanks to a deal brokered by Hernan Ceriani Cernadas, owner of Haras La Quebrada, who re-purchased the 20-year-old son of Halo from JS Company Ltd (Japan’s oldest & largest sales company),” reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Cernadas originally sold Southern Halo to Coolmore’s Ashford Stud in Kentucky in 1998. Southern Halo (who is again Argentina’s leading sire this season) will return to stud duty in late August following a period of quarantine. He is the sire of 117 stakes winners (including 88 graded/group winners) & 12 champions & currently stands at East Stud on Japan’s island of Hokkaido. (July 4) 1st Winner For US Freshman Sire Free House California freshman sire Free House (9YO multiple Gr1-winning son of Smokester) recorded his 1st winner when 2YO colt Head Of The House won over 5.5 furlongs at Hollywood Park, reported bloodhorse.com. Free House won 9 races (including 8 stakes) plus 8 placings in 22 starts, earning US$3,178,971; his highlights were victories in the Gr1 Santa Anita Derby as a 3YO, Gr1 Pacific Classic Stakes as a 4YO & Gr1 Santa Anita Handicap as a 5YO, plus a 1997 3YO Triple Crown 2nd in the Gr1 Preakness Stakes & 3rds in both the Gr1 Kentucky Derby & Gr1 Belmont Stakes. Free House (the only winner of 4 foals to race out of stakes-winning Vigors mare Fountain Lake) stands for US$15,000 at Vessels Stallion Farm in California; he has 59 foals of racing age (5 have started) & 33 yearlings. (July 4) Endless Hall Retired To Stud In Italy Dual international Gr1 winner Endless Hall (Saddlers' Hall-Endless Joy, by Law Society) “has been retired from racing & will stand at stud in Italy this season,” reported thoroughbredinternet.com. Trained at Newmarket in England by Luca Cumani since July 2000, Endless Hall won the Gr1 Gran Premio di Milano in 2000 & the Gr1 Singapore Airlines International Gold Cup in 2001 (where he defeated Jim And Tonic). (July 4) Colic Claims Chile-Based Sire Great Regent Great Regent (Vice Regent-Show Lady, by Sir Ivor), who stood at Luigi d’Alessandri’s Haras Figuron in Chile, has died from colic aged 14 reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The Ontario-bred stallion (currently 5th on the Chilean General Sires list) sired 39 winners (including 10 stakes winners & 3 group winners) in Chile from 70 foals in 6 crops of racing age (including 2002 Chilean champion 3YO Derby Lodge, 2001 champion 2YO filly Senora Claudia & 2002 champion sprinter Café De La Paix). Great Regent won 4 of 17 career starts in Canada, including the 1991 Cup & Saucer Stakes at Woodbine. Bred by Windfields Farm, Great Regent was out of unraced Sir Ivor mare Show Lady (full sister to top Irish performer Malinowski & half-sister to 2-time Gr1 winner Blush With Pride). Notables from the immediate family include Australian high-weight Redoute’s Choice, European high-weight Chimes Of Freedom, Gr1 winners Good Journey, Aldebaran, Denon, Spinning World, Yagli & Domedriver, classic winner & sire El Gan Senor, & top English & Irish performer & sire Try My Best. (July 4) 1st Stakes Win For Argentine-Based Sire Acceptable Argentine-based sire & Gr3 winner Acceptable recorded his 1st stakes winner when 3YO filly Cissy won the Gr2 Clasico Miguel Luis Morales (8 furlongs) at Hipodromo La Plata, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. The 9YO son of Capote, whose 1st crop in Argentina just turned 3, is currently standing his 5th consecutive season at Argentina’s Haras Abolengo. From 120 foals of racing age in his 1st 2 crops in the US, Acceptable has sired 27 starters & 9 winners (including Acceptable Venture, runner-up in the 2002 Rushaway Stakes at Turfway Park, & Patient Patty, 3rd in the 2002 Juvenile Stakes at Fort Erie). Acceptable himself won 6 of 17 starts (including the 1998 Gr3 Kentucky Cup Classic Preview Handicap at Turfway Park). Acceptable stood the Northern Hemisphere breeding season at Wafare Farm in Kentucky. (July 4) Louis Quatorze 2YO Tops Argentine Sale Andino, an unraced 2YO son of Louis Quatorze, topped the Asociación Cooperativa de Criadores de Caballos de Sangre Pura de Carrera sale at the Hipodromo San Isidro’s Tattersall sales ring, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Trainer Miguel Velazco purchased Andino for 42,000 Argentine pesos (US$12,720) from consignor Haras La Quebrada. Andino is out of Southern Halo mare Anfitriona; notable members of the immediate family include stakes winner & stakes producer Aquarelle. (July 4) Brazil’s Waldyr Prudente De Toledo Dies Waldyr Prudente de Toledo, president of the Brazilian Jockey Club de Sao Paulo, has died from pneumonia aged 77, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Internationally-regarded Prudente de Toledo served as president of the Jockey Club de Sao Paulo from 1987-1990 & had been re-elected for a 2nd term last year. (July 4) Western Winter’s South African Blitz Western Winter (with just 3 crops of racing age) is set to claim South Africa’s Champion Sire title, “continuing the success enjoyed around the world by sons of Mr Prospector stallion Gone West,” reported racenet.com.au. Western Winter’s track career was interrupted through injury (he managed 4 wins at Gulfstream Park & Belmont, plus 2 memorable Gr1 & a further 2 Gr2 placings). Retired to Lammerskraal Stud at Ceres in South Africa’s Western Cape province, Western Winter “became an instant sensation” as Champion 1st Season Sire & Champion 2YO Sire with his 1st crop in the 2000-01 season. In his 3rd season this year, Western Winter has been ‘on fire’ with: Set Afire (ex Tawny Port by Northfields) winning the Gr1 Champion Stakes, Gr1 Gold Challenge & 3rd in the Gr1 J.B.Met; Yard Arm (ex Fashing by Dancing Champ) winning the Gr1 South African Derby & runner-up in the Gr1 SA Classic; Surveyor (ex Crescent Fields by Northfields) winning the Gr1 SA Classic & runner-up in the Gr1 Daily News 2000; & Ice Cube (ex Annie by Trigger Finger) winning the Gr2 Protea Stakes & runner-up in the Gr1 SA Nursery Stakes. (July 4) Western Winter-Langfuhr Duels While his exploits “may not be widely reported outside South Africa”, Western Winter is “a name familiar to supporters of Vinery Stud’s Danzig shuttle stallion Langfuhr (in the news with his sons Wando & Mobil running the quinella in Canada’s Gr1 Queens Plate),” noted racenet.com.au. At his final 2 track starts as a 5YO, Western Winter: finished 3rd in the US Gr1 Carter Handicap (7 furlongs) at Belmont Park behind Langfuhr; & then staged “an epic duel with Langfuhr all the way down the long Belmont straight before being beaten a head by the Champion Canadian sprinter in the time-honoured Gr1 Metropolitan Handicap” in 1min 33sec, the 2nd fastest Met Mile in the 106-year history of the race. (July 4) Gone West’s Sons Continue To Shine Meanwhile racenet.com.au noted Gone West (winner of the Gr1 Dwyer Stakes, Gr2 Gotham Stakes & Gr2 Withers Stakes) also boasts sons at stud including: Darley’s Champion 1st-season sire Elusive Quality (who begins duty in Australia this season); & short-lived shuttle stallion Zafonic, champion 1st crop sire in Europe whose loss to the Australian industry, after serving just 4 mares at Arrowfield Stud, is becoming ever more significant following the recent success of Trade Fair (undefeated in 2 starts this year in the Listed King Charles II Stakes & Gr3 Criterion Stakes, following his 3rd last season in the Gr1 Dewhurst Stakes) & return to form of Gr1 English 2000 Guineas runner-up Zafeen (who blitzed a high class field in the Gr1 St James Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot). Zafonic's champion son Xaar returns to Darley Stud this spring. Other sons of Gone West to boost their sire’s status include Zafonic’s brother Zamindar (sire of Gr1 French 1000 Guineas winner Zenda in his 1st crop); Grand Slam (a leading Freshman sire in the US); Mr Greeley (who sired Gr1 VATC Oakleigh Plate winner Miss Kournikova from his only Australian crop & continued in the US with 3 Gr1 winners last season); & Supremo (who spent 3 years shuttling to Australia where he sired top-level competitor Sportsman). Meanwhile Tasmania-based West Quest has been a prolific source of winners in his home state, standing at Grenville Stud for just $4,400 (inc GST). (July 4) Choisir & Airwave: The Mittagong Connection Friday Odd Spot: As favourites Choisir & Airwave prepare for battle again in next week’s Gr1 July Cup (6 furlongs) at Newmarket in England, ponder this co-incidence: Choisir was bred by Ross Daisley, client & close friend of Ray Willis (boss of both Wilburtins McDonald bloodstock insurance brokers & Currockbilly Stud at Mittagong in the NSW Southern Highlands). Most of Daisley’s horses are agisted at Currockbilly & Choisir’s half-sister Great Chic resides on the farm & is currently in-foal to Choisir’s sire Danehill Dancer; she also has a weanling colt on the farm by Springsteen, who will be a 3/4 brother to Choisir. Incredibly, among Willis’s staff is Anne Marie Stewart, who lives at nearby Robertson & works for Willis with the horses. Her grandfather lives in England & is the owner of . . . . Choisir’s arch-rival Airwave! Naturally there were mixed emotions over the final furlongs of the recent Gr1 Golden Jubilee Stakes (6 furlongs) showdown between Choisir & Airwave. (July 4) Robbie Laing Leaves Sutton Grange Victorian trainer Robbie Laing will leave Sutton Grange Racing at the end of the season (July 31), reported aapracingandsports.com.au. Laing, who has been principal trainer for Peter Sidwell’s Sutton Grange (near Bendigo) for 2 years, summed up: "It is a great place, fantastic place, to train horses & it's set-up for someone to walk in & train some very nice horses. But I've had enough of the travelling & somewhere during the 2-hour trip on the Calder Highway between Bendigo & Melbourne I probably made the decision subconsciously to leave." Laing noted he was “in the car up to 16 hours a week travelling to the races.” Laing was in charge of up to 70 horses at Sutton Grange & this season has trained around 50 winners. His major wins at Sutton Grange include: 2002 Gr1 SA Derby with Pantani; 2002 The Janz with Rohaytn; 2003 Magic Millions with Dress Code; & 2003 VRC St Leger with Sir Pentire. Major placings include: Gr1 Lightning Stakes & Rubiton Stakes with Azevedo; Gr1 Futurity Stakes with Roman Arch; Blue Diamond Stakes & Bloodhorse Breeders Stakes with Divine Secret; VRC St Leger with Pantani; Ming Dynasty Quality with Rohaytn; Bletchingly Stakes & Monash Stakes with Ruby Slipper; & Australian Hurdle & Hiskens Steeplechase with Regal Royal. Laing will leave Sutton Grange with 20 horses (including Sir Pentire, Azevedo & Ruby Slipper) & move back with his father Eddie at Lyndhurst (near Cranbourne): "It's also only 5 minutes to the beach & I like to do beach work with some of my horses." Among the horses remaining at Sutton Grange are Divine Secret, Dress Code & Cannyopra. (July 3) Miller Seeks New Training Licence Controversial Perth racing figure John Miller has applied to resume training from the start of the new Australian racing season on August 1, reported aapracingandsports.com.au. The former champion jockey was banned from racetracks last month by the WA Turf Club “after it was claimed he had failed to pay fines amounting to almost $18,000.” The fines were imposed during Miller’s long-running dispute over the disqualification of his stayer Thurston from 2nd place in the 2001 Perth Cup after returning a positive drug test. Miller paid the fines last week after the Racing Penalties Appeal Tribunal rejected a stewards' application to have Thurston's controversial case reopened. Miller was originally disqualified for 6 months after Thurston tested positive to the stomach ulcer treatment Cimetidine; but his appeal against the ban (to the RPAT) was upheld last year. Stewards then sought to have the case reopened, claiming misleading evidence was presented at the 1st hearing. (July 3) Craig Carmody Returns To Singapore The Singapore Turf Club has granted Sydney jockey Craig Carmody a “3-month local permit to ride freelance with immediate effect”. Carmody, 35, is currently licensed by Racing NSW & running 14th in the Sydney Jockeys' Premiership. Carmody has been riding since 1985 & landed over 945 winners; he previously rode in Singapore from September 2000 to August 2002. (July 3) Aust Horse-Of-The-Year Awards The Australian Horse-Of-The-Year & 8 other individual category awards will be announced at tonight’s ‘Australia's Racing Champions’ dinner at Melbourne's Crown Palladium. WA superstar Northerly & Sydney weight-for-age champ Lonhro are expected to fight out the main award (determined by votes from racing administrators & racing writers around Australia). And Irish-based Melbourne Cup winner Media Puzzle is among the main contenders for the Champion Stayer award. (July 3) Aust Champion Sprinter Contenders Nominations for Champion Sprinter (with breeding & sale details from aapracingandsports.com.au) are: Bel Esprit: 3YO b c Royal Academy (Inglis Classic Yearling Sale, $9,000) Breeder: P.Gunter NSW Belle Du Jour: 5YO b m Dehere (Magic Millions Premier Sale, $200,000) Breeder: Seg/Advance Breeding Venture NSW Choisir: 3YO ch c Danehill Dancer (Inglis Classic Yearling Sale, $55,000) Breeder: R.M.Daisley NSW Defier: 5YO b g Dehere (Magic Millions Premier Sale, $80,000) Breeder: Bhima NSW Spinning Hill: 6YO b m Dolphin Street (Retained by breeder) Breeder: O.P.Tait & S.S.Nivison NSW Yell: 3YO b g Anabaa (Retained by breeder) Breeder: Woodlands Stud NSW (July 3) Aust Champion 3YO Contenders Nominations for Champion 3YO (with breeding & sale details from aapracingandsports.com.au) are: Bel Esprit: 3YO b c Royal Academy (Inglis Classic Yearling Sale, $9,000) Breeder: P.Gunter NSW Clangalang: 3YO br c Clang (no public sale recorded) Breeder: J.Thorne NSW Helenus: 3YO b c Helissio (Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale, $80,000) Breeder: Widden Stud NSW Innovation Girl: 3YO b/br f Rubiton (Retained by breeder) Breeder: O.E. & D.R.Pope SA Natural Blitz: 3YO b c Dehere (Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale, $85,000) Breeder: J.Abrahams & P.O'Brien NSW Platinum Scissors: 3YO b c Danehill (Retained by breeder) Breeder: M.A.Yaseen VIC Sound Action: 3YO ch f Vettori (Inglis December Thoroughbred Sale, $1,250) Breeder: Markham Arabian VIC Sunday Joy: 3YO b f Sunday Silence (Magic Millions Premier Sale, $1m) Breeder: Arrowfield Pastoral & Ognis NSW Yell: 3YO b g Anabaa (Retained by breeder) Breeder: Woodlands Stud NSW (July 3) Aust Champion 2YO Contenders Nominations for Champion 2YO (with breeding & sale details from aapracingandsports.com.au) are: Hasna: 2YO b f Snippets (Magic Millions Premier Sale, $160,000) Breeder: Markham Arabian VIC Polar Success: 2YO b f Success Express (Magic Millions Winter Yearling Sale, $32,000) Breeder: G.Harvey NSW Winestock: 2YO b g El Moxie (Inglis Melbourne Premier Yearling Sale, $21,000) Breeder: Emirates Park VIC (July 3) Aust Champion Middle Distance Contenders Nominations for Champion Middle Distance performer (with breeding & sale details from aapracingandsports.com.au) are: Defier: 5YO b g Dehere (Magic Millions Premier Sale, $80,000) Breeder: Bhima Pty Ltd NSW Lonhro: 4YO br h Octagonal (Retained by breeder) Breeder: Woodlands Stud NSW Northerly: 6YO b g Serheed (Retained by breeder) Breeder: Oakland Park Stud WA (July 3) Danehill Leads Aust Sires List With less than a month to go to the end of the 2002-03 Australian racing season on July 31, Danehill still leads Serheed & Dehere on the General Sires List (by prize-money). The current Top 30 (after last weekend’s racing) are: 1: Danehill $6,885,389. 2: Serheed $6,332,557. 3: Dehere $5,348,650. 4: Snippets $4,370,920. 5: Octagonal $4,328,066. 6: Zabeel $4,136,971. 7: Encosta de Lago $3,984,885. 8: Success Express $3,772,617. 9: Grand Lodge $3,737,648. 10: Hennessy $3,730,272. 11: Rubiton $3,421,618. 12: Royal Academy $3,221,070. 13: Quest For Fame $2,846,567. 14: Canny Lad $2,702,384. 15: Danehill Dancer $2,600,208. 16: Theatrical $2,565,000. 17: Rory's Jester $2,547,023. 18: Secret Savings $2,522,965. 19: Jeune $2,357,412. 20: Umatilla $2,346,887. 21: Geiger Counter $2,328,863. 22: Helissio $2,245,730. 23: Clang $2,176,337. 24: Flying Spur $2,145,236. 25: Last Tycoon $2,088,962. 26: Scenic $2,059,439. 28: El Moxie $2,025,637. 26: Danewin $2,006,225. 29: Anabaa $1,981,690. 30: Unbridled's Song $1,914,774. (July 3) NZ Sire Oregon Transfers To Soneri Lodge NZ sire Oregon, who has stood at Fairdale Stud since he began stud duties in 1991, has been re-located to Soneri Lodge (operated by the Haig family at Levin in the lower North Island) for the 2003 breeding season, reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. The decision to transfer Oregon follows “the purchase by Fairdale Stud of its new stallion Riviera to stand alongside Howbaddouwantit at Fairdale.” Fairdale owners Gerald & Rex Fell were keen for Oregon to remain in the NZ Central Districts area. They “will retain ownership of Oregon & continue to patronise the horse with their mares.” Oregon boasts: 66% winners-to-runners; 15 stakes-winners; winners in 10 countries; champion sire of Asia in 2001. Oregon's fee will be just NZ$2,000 (plus gst). His progeny sold for up to NZ$60,000 at the recent Karaka sales series. Fairdale has a long association with the Haig family of Soneri Lodge, spanning over 40 years beginning with the purchase of Sonorous, 4th dam of Fairdale-bred Miltak (winner of the Gr1 Auckland Cup & Gr1 BMW Stakes). (July 3) Riviera Settles In At NZ’s Fairdale Stud Meanwhile millionaire Gr1 winning sprinter-miler Riviera has settled into his new surroundings at Fairdale Stud & co-owner Gerald Fell told thoroughbrednews.co.nz: "It's like he's been here all of his life." Riviera was a California-based multiple stakes winner of 10 races from 21 starts & is standing his 1st season at stud at NZ$5,000 (plus gst). (July 3) NZ Freshman Sire Howbaddouwanit's 1st Foals And Fairdale Stud’s other stallion, freshman sire Howbaddouwantit, produced 100-plus foals on the ground in his 1st crop last spring, reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. And many major NZ studs will be including Howbaddouwantit (by Rahy out of a Nijinsky mare) progeny in their drafts for the 2004 yearling sales series. Fairdale's Gerald Fell noted: "They are well grown, correct individuals who are very much in the mould of their sire Howbaddouwantit with distinctive colours, well marked, handsome & very saleable." Howbaddouwantit (2nd top-weighted US sprinter on turf of his year) won 9 races, including the Laurel Dash (highest rated Turf Sprint in the US) & holds the 5 furlongs track record at 55.1sec. (July 3) Dr Fong’s 2YO Brother Keeps Winning Dr Fong’s 2YO full-brother Lucky Story (Kris S-Spring Flight, by Miswaki) took his tally to 2 wins from 3 starts with victory by 6 lengths at Pontefract, reported racingpost.co.uk. Owned by Abdulla Buhaleeba, the colt was bought by Gainsborough for US$95,000 at last year’s Keeneland September sale in the US. His exciting 8YO freshman sire brother is currently ranked 4th on Europe’s 1st Season Sires list by prize-money won. (July 3) New Track Would Offer US$1 Million-A-Day Purses The Pennsylvania Horsemen's Benevolent & Protective Association has applied for a licence to build a racetrack in the Lehigh Valley (2 hours north of the Philadelphia metropolitan area) where “daily purses would eventually average US$1 million a day under a plan whereby all profits from slot machines would go back to horsemen,” reported bloodhorse.com. The Pennsylvania HBPA plan to construct Freedom Park (with a 9-furlong dirt track, inner turf course & 400–500 room hotel/conference center) anticipates legislation to approve slot machines at racetracks in Pennsylvania. The Association noted its proposal "represents a unique opportunity for horsemen, the real shareholders of the Pennsylvania thoroughbred horse racing industry, to own & operate a racetrack where all profits will be reinvested into the purse structure." Freedom Park would offer 100 days of live racing within 3 years, with daily average purses of US$1 million. (July 3) Clenbuterol 1: Team Valour Boss Attacks US Drug Culture Barry Irwin, high-profile president of American thoroughbred investor Team Valor, has triggered a major debate with his call for US racing’s owners, trainers & vets to “break the drug habit.” Irwin penned a controversial opinion column for bloodhorse.com revealing: “One of Team Valor's 15 trainers recently told me the stable veterinarian had urged him to put half a dozen horses on clenbuterol as an experiment. The vet said the practice's most successful clients had a majority of their horses on the stuff & our trainer was ‘missing the boat’. I told the trainer not to put the horse on clenbuterol, unless it was sick, which is supposed to be the reason the drug is prescribed.” Irwin noted: “The trainer & veterinarian are sincere professionals. They both try their hardest to put the welfare of the horse first. Yet both of them want to jump on the clenbuterol bandwagon for reasons of survival as practitioners of their craft. The trainer wants to use the drug because the conditioner honestly believes that, without the drug, others will have an edge over the stable's runners. The vet recommends the drug because he thinks it makes horses run so much better that, if he fails to prescribe it, horses under his care will not keep pace with horses treated with the drug. Clients may switch to a different vet.” (July 3) Clenbuterol 2: Rampant In US Racing Barry Irwin summed up the clenbuterol debate for bloodhorse.com: “On the back-stretches of the major racetracks in America, horses that are not suffering from an acute respiratory illness are routinely treated with clenbuterol, because trainers & vets feel they must in order to keep up with the Joneses. While prominent vets will tell you, until the cows come home, that clenbuterol is not all it is cracked up to be, urban racetrack legend holds that, because of its steroidal effects & ability to clear a wide path in the trachea of an equine athlete, it may be the most powerful performance-enhancer currently available in the trunk of the veterinary vehicle.” (July 3) Clenbuterol 3: US Owners Face Major Dilemma Barry Irwin also explained the major dilemma facing American owners to bloodhorse.com: “As an owner contemplating the use of clenbuterol, I have to consider the welfare of the animal & the cost of the drug. Clenbuterol, if used routinely, costs US$250-300 a month. Its effects on a horse can be harsh, because it makes horses shake like an alcoholic with DTs. If racing jurisdictions had kept a ban on clenbuterol (which was illegal to possess, let alone be used, until the late 1990s), nobody would have to consider its use today. But now, conscientious professionals feel impelled to use the insidious drug in order to stay in business. So, along with several other drugs deemed illegal & improper for use by Olympic athletes, clenbuterol is now the latest ‘must’ for horsemen. My trainer has forced me to reconsider my involvement in racing, because I do not see how to break the cycle of the introduction of 1 new drug after another.” And, he noted, racetracks want drugs because “they have been sold a bill of goods by horsemen & veterinarians convincing them that, without these medications, there will not be enough horses to put on a racing program.” (July 3) Clenbuterol 4: Return To ‘Hay, Oats & Water’ Barry Irwin concludes his controversial column for bloodhorse.com: “How is this insanity going to stop? The only answer is hay, oats & water.” He sums up bluntly: “A policy of hay, oats & water would place everybody on a level playing field. It would save the expense-plagued owner thousands of dollars every year on every horse in the barn. Hay, oats & water will return the onus of getting a horse to perform from the little black bag to the hands of a horseman, where it was in the days when Seabiscuit ran 35 races as a 2YO. Under the stewardship of the modern veterinarian, 35 races would be an extraordinarily lengthy career.” And he warns: “This game is running out of players willing to pay the bucks to support a drug habit that is being pushed by the very guardians of our sport. Who is going to step up into a leadership position & take a stand to roll back the current medication policies?” (July 3) Choisir Running In UK July Cup Newcastle trainer Paul Perry’s acclaimed 3YO sprinter Choisir is back on track to run in the Gr1 July Cup (6 furlongs) at Newmarket in England on July 10. The colt was set to enter UK quarantine on July 18 before returning to Australia, but Perry told racenet.com.au yesterday that Choisir will now run in the July Cup: “He’s done so well after his last run & really he’s just marking time until quarantine, so we thought why not? Shannon (Perry’s son) is still with him & he’s having a great time over there, he’s really enjoying it! I’ll head back there as well for the race, so hopefully we’ll be cheering him home again in 10 days time.” And fellow part-owner Terry Wallace confirmed to Brisbane radio station 4TAB: "He can't go into quarantine until July 18, he's done well & he's there. So he might as well run." Shannon Perry (supervising the colt's training at Geoff Wragg's Newmarket yard) told racingpost.co.uk overnight: "I've just been told we're running & to get the horse there the best we can. . . He is a bit tighter & more race-fit as the July Cup will be his 3rd run back. Johnny Murtagh will ride him again & I'm hoping to win. I don't know what else he needs to do now to prove his (European champion sprinter's) title, the others are going to run out of races to catch him soon." (July 2) International Handicappers Discuss Choisir & Ipi Tombe Meanwhile handicappers from “Britain, Ireland & France fly to South Africa this week for a conference to discuss the introduction of a world-wide International Classification,” reported racingpost.co.uk, with “the performances of Australia’s dual Royal Ascot winner Choisir & the much travelled Ipi Tombe giving the meeting added relevance.” Inclusion of South African horses in future classifications will also be high on the agenda. Senior Irish handicapper Garry O’Gorman commented: "We are moving towards a world-wide amalgamation of classifications. We will look at how this is going to work out in practice & discuss the arrangements for when & how the ratings will be published. The Classifications now come under the Federation of Horse Racing Authorities, which is a world-wide organisation under the auspices of the European Pattern Committee. In addition to Choisir, the performances of Ipi Tombe will be up for discussion. Her wins in the Dubai Duty Free in March & the Locust Grove Handicap at Churchill Downs last Saturday have made her the new queen of international racing & horses like her enable us to assess the levels of racing in the different countries.” (July 2) UK RSPCA Pushes Minimum Racehorse Rest Periods Britain’s RSPCA “has come under pressure to support minimum rest periods for racehorses, after its members voted in favour of a proposal that would seek to stop horses running more than once in a week,” reported racingpost.co.uk. The UK Jockey Club is to hold talks with the charity’s equine advisors after a motion calling for “the resting of horses for at least a week between races, together with the provision of leisure time to reduce stress” was passed at the British RSPCA’s Annual General Meeting last weekend. ”The campaigning of racehorses & rest periods has not previously been of concern to either the RSPCA or the Jockey Club, but the issue will now be examined in more detail before the charity’s Council has the final say as to whether to adopt it as policy.” The proposal “would seek to outlaw performances such as that by Australian sprint star Choisir, who carried off 2 of Royal Ascot’s biggest prizes in the space of 4 days.” (July 2) UK Trainers Slam RSPCA Proposal However British RSPCA equine veterinary officer David McDowell noted: “This is a proposal put forward by a member of the RSPCA. The RSPCA Council will consider it, but is not obliged to incorporate it into the Society's policy. The Society feels most racehorses are already rested for a week between races & there is no need to stipulate that this must happen. The amount of rest needed by a horse depends on the amount of travelling required between races & the length of races being run. We believe most horses already have 'leisure time'." And leading UK trainer Mark Johnston declared: “It’s total nonsense! It’s a case of people voting on something they know absolutely nothing about. I’ve run horses within 24 hours of their previous run. There is no reason to rest horses 7 days between races. What is leisure time? Should they play chess? Leisure time to racehorses is 4 square meals a day & being well cared for. If you start resting them, you can bring them back & give them a problem as a result of resting.” Deirdre Carson, partner in Newmarket veterinary practice Rossdales, added: “For horses like a Choisir, 2 sprints in a 4-day interval is nothing. A lot of other horses that race frequently actually do nothing between races, so the racing is a form of work exercise.” (July 2) 2,218 Nominations For $3 Million Golden Slipper There were 2,218 nominations for the world’s richest 2YO race, the 2004 $3 million AAMI Golden Slipper, by yesterday’s deadline. Sydney Turf Club racing general mamager John Nicholson confirmed this “well exceeded last year’s 2,053 figure” & noted the STC will provide “a complete list of nominations, including bloodlines” in coming weeks. (July 2) 270 Acceptances For $1 Million Golden Rose Yesterday was also the acceptance deadline for August 30’s inaugural 2003 $1 million Tooheys New Golden Rose, to be run on Day 1 of the STC’s Spring Carnival at Rosehill Gardens. There were 270 first acceptances. The STC introduced the Golden Rose ‘bonus’ 12 months ago: with one nomination fee, a horse is eligible to compete in the $3 million AAMI Golden Slipper (1200m) as a 2YO & is also eligible for the $1 million Tooheys New Golden Rose (1400m) as a 3-year-old. (July 2) Aust Govt Moves Against Bet Exchanges Australian racing & Government authorities “are poised to take action that will effectively remove the perceived threat off-shore betting exchanges represent to the Australian racing industry,” reported aapracingandsports.com.au. The betting exchange issue “is expected to come to a head in Sydney this week” at meetings between State Racing Ministers, TAB executives, representatives of the Australian Racing Board & major race clubs. “The scales have tipped heavily in favour of the bodies agreeing to ban the introduction of betting exchanges in Australia & implement measures to stop Australian punters investing with the off-shore operators via the internet.” Their recommendations will go to the Federal Government, which has “the final call on whether betting exchanges will be licensed to operate in Australia.” The strongest indication that the anti-betting exchange lobby has won over the political bloc has come from WA Racing Minister Nick Griffiths, who has “publicly proposed that all Racing Ministers adopt a united approach to the Federal Government to outlaw betting exchanges as a matter of urgency.” (July 2) WA Jockey Out For 6 Months After ‘Drug Positive’ WA Turf Club stewards suspended leading apprentice jockey Shaun McGruddy for 6 months after he tested positive to the recreational drug ecstasy. (July 2) Apprentice Parnham Moves To Lindsay Park Another prominent Perth apprentice jockey Steven Parnham has arrived at SA’s premier stable Lindsay Park “to continue his riding career,” reported The Australian newspaper. Parnham (son of trainer Neville Parnham) has ridden over 60 winners in WA & will take his initial rides for Lindsay Park at Cheltenham on Saturday. Lindsay Park spokesman Sam Hayes said: “He is on loan for 2 months, but I am sure he will be with us for longer than that. He has a good work ethic & it is a plus to get a youngster with his experience.” (July 2) NSW Owners Receive Extra $5.8 Million Racing NSW’s focus on “increasing returns to owners” has resulted in total prize-money reaching its highest-ever level at $95.7 million (up $3.8 million from last year): metropolitan race clubs handed out $59.6m prize-money (up $2.6 million); provincial clubs lifted their stakes from $11.4 million to $12 million; & country club prize-money went from $23.1 million to $23.7 million. In addition, a further $2 million in BOBS bonuses means owners have received a total $5.8 million extra, compared to last season. Racing NSW CEO Merv Hill commented: “Notwithstanding that this has been a difficult year for many sectors of the economy & regions of NSW, our important indicators - especially prize-money - show improving trends.” (July 2) NSW TAB Field Sizes Increase The Racing NSW Board’s other focus on “improving TAB field sizes” also paid dividends. The total number of metropolitan starters grew by 452 in the last year, resulting in metropolitan average field size increasing from 10.2 to 10.7. Provincial average field sizes remained constant at 10.4, while NSW country TAB average field sizes grew from 10.2 to 10.5. (July 2) New Queensland Racing Act Begins Queensland’s new Racing Act 2002 (unanimously passed into law by the Queensland Parliament) began operating yesterday. Queensland Racing Minister Merri Rose said the Act replaced the “outdated Racing & Betting Act 1980” & provided the “flexibility the racing industry required” to deal with the commercial realities it faces. She also noted: “But while the legislation provides the flexibility required by a modern industry, the Racing Act 2002 maintains the Government’s commitment to ensuring public confidence in the integrity of the racing industry.” Rose emphasised participants & the public had “nothing to fear from the introduction of the new Act, with it bringing about incremental changes rather than any monumental shift. This is not going to change the way the races are going to be conducted on Saturday, or any other day of the week. But it will allow the control bodies of the 3 codes to fully assess their commercial opportunities & ensure they are providing their customers with the best possible product. The Racing Industry is in a very competitive operating environment, so it needs to get past the methods of yesteryear & ready itself for the future.” And she warned: “The Act gives the Government the ability to take remedial action should a control body not be living up to its regulatory responsibilities or if endemic corruption is found.” (July 2) Windsor Park’s Volksraad Leads NZ Sires Table The current Top 20 on the NZ General Sires Table (by prize-money), according to NZ Thoroughbred Marketing, are: 1: Volksraad NZ$1,180,050. 2: Zabeel NZ$1,075,015. 3: O’Reilly NZ$911,771. 4: Desert Sun NZ$852,288. 5: Faltaat NZ$750,262. 6: Prized NZ$702,075. 7: Stark South NZ$671.970. 8: Al Akbar NZ$580,395. 9: Maroof NZ$522,718. 10: His Royal Highness NZ$497,295. 11: Deputy Governor NZ$454,158. 12: Danasinga NZ$441,830. 13: Lord Ballina NZ$440,447. 14: Shinko King NZ$439,790. 15: Blues Traveller NZ$425,352. 16: Centaine NZ$421,359. 17: Honor Grades NZ$385,716. 18: King Of Kings NZ$383,090. 19: Bin Ajwaad NZ$360,964. 20: Victory Dance NZ$356,348. (July 2) Volksraad 2YO Winners Hit ‘Double Figures’ Meanwhile the number of individual 2YO winners posted by champion NZ sire Volksraad this season “hit double figures” with Parliament’s “impressive winning debut over 1100m at Te Rapa,” noted thoroughbrednews.co.nz. Parliament (from the Matamata stable of Mike Moroney & Andrew Scott) also became Volksraad’s 53rd individual winner in NZ this season. Volksraad’s other notable 2YOs this season include: Gr2 Bank Of New Zealand Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) winner Katana (also runner-up in the Gr1 Ford Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes); & Shadowfax Babe & Eftee One which finished 2nd & 3rd in the NZ$500,000 Mercedes Super Bonus Classique (1200m) at Te Rapa. Volksraad (who is leading sire of stakes-winners this season with 10 black-type races) is also leading NZ sire of 2YOs on the basis of both overall wins & individual winners. (July 2) 4 New NZ Training Partnerships At next month’s start of the 2003-04 racing season “4 new training partnerships will come into force in New Zealand,” reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. Veteran Awapunui trainer Noel Eales (winner 2 years ago of the Mercedes Award for Contribution to NZ Racing Excellence) will be joined in partnership by his son Matthew. This season Noel Eales “has seen 35% of his almost 200 starters to date finish up paying a dividend.” Matamata trainer Graham Richardson will be joined in partnership by his current foreman Mark Donoghue (formerly from Hastings & a licence holder in his own right). Matamata trainer Roger James will welcome Leanne Bertling (who started her career in racing as an apprentice in 1988 & rode as a jockey through to 1996) as his local training partner. And another father-son team has been formed with the decision of Karaka trainer Kim Clotworthy to take son Shaun into partnership. (July 2) NZ Trainer Margaret Bull Retires Meanwhile Awapuni trainer Margaret Bull “has decided not to renew her training licence from the start of the 2003-04 season,” reported thoroughbrednews.co.nz. Third generation racing enthusiast Bull enjoyed top level successes through the 1970s & 1980s with high class 2YO Longfella (who headed the 1971-72 NZ 2YO Free Handicap), Magnitude (raced by Margaret’s brother & former NZ Racing Conference head Jim Bull) & Lacka Reason (raced by the American ambassador to NZ). (July 2) Godolphin Aims At 100th Gr1 Win Last year’s World Racing Series champion Grandera heads the Godolphin stable’s team for Saturday’s Gr1 Eclipse Stakes at Sandown in England, while also bidding to give Godolphin its 100th Gr1 win. Godolphin racing manager Simon Crisford told racingpost.co.uk: “Grandera & Narrative are likely to be our runners in the Eclipse. They are both absolutely fine & in good order.” (July 2) Fasig-Tipton July Catalogue Cut 25% US sales company Fasig-Tipton’s catalogue for its Kentucky Yearling Sale (July 16-17) “is a pared-down volume at 463 lots, nearly 25% smaller than the 2002 edition,” reported racingpost.co.uk. Fasig-Tipton president Walt Robertson cited Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome (which had its biggest effect in Kentucky earlier this year) as the major reason; given the sale leans towards early Kentucky-breds, the number of July candidates was well down. The sale’s median over the last 4 years has sat in the US$55-70,000 bracket. The first 210 lots form the New Sire Showcase, which features 19 Gr1-winning stallions with their 1st yearlings in this segment, including Cat Thief, Lemon Drop Kid & War Chant, plus British-raced trio Royal Anthem, Running Stag & The Deputy. (July 2) Artificial Insemination & Stallion Book Size Debated Artificial insemination & stallion book size “were among the more controversial topics discussed” as university professors from the US, UK, Australia & Israel gathered in Kentucky for the Third International Equine Industry Program Academic Conference, reported bloodhorse.com. Because frozen sperm could be used to breed the genetic material of stallions long dead with contemporary mares, “artificial insemination may actually produce better-quality racehorses” said Dr Phillip Coelho of Ball State University. While modern technologies such as artificial insemination, embryo transfer & "super-ovulation" are currently banned in the breeding of thoroughbreds, Coelho argued such restrictive practices “have spawned monopoly distortions within the thoroughbred industry, which in turn has created an unnatural barrier in the market for stud services.” And Dr Robert Losey of American University tackled the thorny question of how many mares a stallion should be bred to & how that number effects stud fees. He declared: "The traditionalist, or old-school approach, wants to limit the number of mares. It's the old 6-gun theory: the stallion only has so many bullets." During his research, Losey discovered that in the early years of a stallion's career, breeding to more mares tends to result in a lower average quality of mares bred, but higher numbers of note-worthy runners: "Stallion managers should try to produce a large number of foals in the early years. The goal is to hit the big time in your 1st 2 or 3 crops.” (July 2) Support Recommendation For US ‘Championship Tour’ The US Breeders' Cup executive committee & management team “is expected to recommend to the full Breeders' Cup board that the organisation continue to work with the Thoroughbred Owners & Breeders Association to facilitate the proposed Thoroughbred Championship Tour,” reported bloodhorse.com. The TCT would be a for-profit, owner-driven series of races that would bridge the US 3YO Triple Crown & Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships. There would be 5 "event days" featuring 30 races primarily at tracks in California & New York. If the Breeders' Cup board approves the recommendation during its July 14 meeting in Lexington, Breeders' Cup would contribute US$3 million a year over 5 years to facilitate the TCT. The TCT hopes to create “a sports franchise for horse owners & a network television package that rivals that of Triple Crown Productions. But the limited liability company that would own the racing series expects to lose an average of US$3.7 million in each of its first 5 formative years because of purse contributions.” The TCT concept was unveiled last year by TOBA, whose goal is to “showcase the best horses in America & in turn increase economic benefits for owners & others in the thoroughbred industry.” (July 2) Rosehill Stable Swoop Follows Float Raid NSW Thoroughbred Racing Board Stewards followed Sunday’s raid on all 30 floats which arrived at Rosehill Gardens racecourse with a Monday-morning “dawn raid at the Rosehill stables”, reported racenet.com.au. “The stables of around 40 trainers were attended by the stewards & samples were logged for analysis at the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory.” The raids continue the ‘out-of-competition' drug testing operation that has seen similar swoops on Randwick & Warwick Farm yards earlier in the season. (July 1) Ryan Closes On Aust Jockey Record Greg Ryan, Australia’s most successful jockey in terms of winners, is just 7 victories short of breaking his own national record, noted racenet.com.au. Ryan’s record is 210 winners, set last season after breaking his previous best of 208.5 the season before. This season he has ridden 204 winners (mostly around Australia’s rural meetings) &, with 1 month of the racing season still to run, looks set to create a new record if he continues to ride regularly over the next 4 weeks. (July 1) Sheila Laxon Moves Permanently To Aust Former NZ trainer Sheila Laxon (who won the 2001 Melbourne & Caulfield Cups with Ethereal) has been “back in Waikato this week, but only to pack the last of her belongings,” reported aapracingandsports.com.au. Laxon left her Maungatautari property (near Cambridge) last October, following her heart to Victoria’s Mt Macedon to be with her new partner, trainer John Symons. Laxon summed up: "I thought I'd stay here forever, but I met a man. If John died tomorrow I'd be back in an instant, because this place is where I'd like to spend the rest of my life. But hopefully we'll have a long & lasting relationship. I think he's the most fabulous guy. Otherwise I would never leave this place. But from a racing point of view, Australia is where it all happens.” (July 1) Aust Mare Continues US Campaign Former Australian racemare Damaschino (now trained in California by Neil Drysdale) continued her campaign at the very top level in the US over the weekend in the US$200,000 Gr2 Beverly Hills Handicap (10 furlongs) at Hollywood Park. Having her 3rd start in the US & starting at 16-1, Damaschino (by Gonco Almeida) led by 7 lengths at the 6 furlongs & 3 lengths on the home turn, before tiring to finish 4th behind leading locals VooDoo Dancer (a Gr1-winning daughter of Kingmambo who has 10 wins & 6 placings in 19 starts for US1,127,952 prize-money), Dublino & Megahertz, reported thoroughbredtimes.com. Damaschino (formerly trained by Roger James) recorded 6 wins & 7 placings in 24 Australian starts. (July 1) Internationals Fly In For Aust Champions Dinner Irishman Dermot Cantillon, racing manager for Dr Michael Smurfit, the senior owner of last year’s Melbourne Cup winner Media Puzzle, will fly into Melbourne for Thursday night's ‘Australia's Racing Champions’ dinner at Melbourne's Crown Palladium. Media Puzzle is among the main contenders for the Champion Stayer award, 1 of 9 awards to be announced at the function which also includes the naming of Australia's Champion Racehorse-Of-The-Year. Cantillon was Smurfit's representative at Flemington last November when the Dermot Weld-trained Media Puzzle gave jockey Damien Oliver an emotion-charged victory in Australia's premier staying race. WA superstar Northerly & the John Hawkes-trained Lonhro are expected to fight out the main award, which is determined by votes from racing administrators & racing writers around Australia. (July 1) Minimum Phone Bet Reduction For Vict Bookies The Victoria Government “has continued its promised assistance to bookmakers with another reduction of the minimum telephone bet,” reported aapracingandsports.com.au. From today the minimum bet on metropolitan races with Victorian bookmakers will drop to $50. Acting Racing Minister Andre Haermeyer said the latest reduction was "the penultimate step in the phasing out of minimum bet limits with Victorian bookmakers." All limits on metropolitan Victorian races are scheduled to be removed by this time next year, in line with the zero minimums that already apply to provincial racing & all harness & greyhound races. (July 1) Grafton Carnival Worth Over $700,000 Grafton's annual July racing Carnival continues to be an annual pilgrimage for many leading NSW & Queensland trainers. With prize-money in excess of $700,000, NSW’s richest country program features 5 outstanding days of racing commencing on July 10 & concluding July 19. Grafton’s Carnival is headed by the $175,000 Gr3 Tooheys New Grafton Cup on July 17, & $125,000 Qantaslink Listed Ramornie Handicap & Holiday Inns Australia Grafton Guineas the day before. (July 1) Grafton’s Ballot Exemption An Incentive Meanwhile Grafton’s attempts to attract high-profile horses should pay dividends via the Club’s exemption policy for its 2 major events: for the Ramornie Handicap, winners of the June Stakes (June 7 at Randwick), Pacesetter Stakes (June 26 at Gosford), Winter Stakes (July 5 at Rosehill) & John Carlton Cup (July 10 at Grafton) are exempt from the ballot; & for the Grafton Cup, winners of the Gosford Cup (May 8 at Gosford), STC Mckell Cup (May 31 at Rosehill), AJC Winter Plate (June 9 at Randwick), STC Winter Cup (July 5 at Rosehill) & Grafton Cup Prelude (July 10 at Grafton) will be excluded from the ballot. (July 1) Freedman’s Adelaide Buys Keep Winning Leading Victorian trainer Lee Freedman (who relocated this season to a new base at Rye on the Mornington Peninsula) has already achieved a return of over 200% from the 8 yearlings he purchased at the 2001 Adelaide Magic Millions Sale. The group cost Freedman a total $321,000 & have so far returned $1,091,707. Most recently $22,000 buy Sweet Corn won over 1600m at Sandown in Melbourne last Sunday to take her prize-money to $62,200. Among the others: Mummify (a $41,000 buy) is being set for the Caulfield & Melbourne Cups double following his runaway win in the Gr1 South Australian Derby at Morphettville; True Glo (a $40,000 buy) is a Queensland Group & Melbourne stakes winner who’s collected just under $300,000 with 6 victories in 13 starts; & Tomakomai (by Fuji Kiseki) was recently sold to Macau & has recorded 2 placings followed by 2 wins in 4 starts under his new name Elegance Champion. (July 1) Aushorse Ownership Seminar At Randwick Thoroughbred marketing body Aushorse “will run an informal seminar for people interested in owning a racehorse” to coincide with the 1st annual Stud & Stallion Day on July 20 in the betting auditorium at Sydney’s Randwick racetrack. High-profile speakers will outline ownership options including syndication, leasing, yearling selection & the auction system, plus related issues such as insurance. Aushorse spokeswoman Bronwyn Farr said: "Aushorse has run several ownership seminars in conjunction with William Inglis & Son in Sydney to coincide with sales, & we've had an enormously positive response from people who would like to become racehorse owners, but are not sure what option is best for them. Many of our seminar participants have since become owners or part-owners in racehorses. Participants have the opportunity to meet industry personalities & have their questions answered by the experts.” (July 1) NZ Trifecta In Gr1 Selangor Gold Cup Malaysia’s richest-ever race, the RM1.5 million (A$600,000) Gr1 Selangor Gold Cup (2000m), has provided a Kiwi trifecta. Winner Confluence (Paris Opera-Tristrams Jewel, by Sir Tristram), bred by former Auckland Racing Club chairman Dr Gavin Kellaway, “confirmed her reputation as the finest racemare to have ever raced in Malaysia” reported NZ Thoroughbred Marketing. Her earlier Malaysian victories include the Coronation Cup, Yang Di Pertua Negeri Gold Cup & Piala Emas Sultan Selangor. Making up the placings were Opposing Force (Jetball-Delia’s Choice, by Sir Tristram) & Baby Star (by Deputy Governor). (July 1) Analyst Wins Sing Pao Macau Cup Outstanding 4YO Analyst (a $15,000 bargain buy at the Inglis 2000 Autumn Sale) has added another big win to his impressive record in the Gr2 Sing Pao Macau Cup (1500m). Analyst (Deputy Governor-Trinket Box, by Mighty Avalanche) has now recorded 8 wins & 8 placings from 18 starts for prize-money in excess of A$600,000. He has emerged as 1 of Macau’s best horses with earlier wins in the Macau Derby & Chairman’s Challenge Handicap. (July 1) Mighty Weekend For Deputy Governor Meanwhile NZ’s Chequers Stud is celebrating a mighty weekend in Asia for its resident sire Deputy Governor (whose fee this year is NZ$8,000). In Singapore, Zirna (by Deputy Governor), already a Gr1 winner in NZ, captured the Gr2 Singapore Derby Trial at Kranji. In Kuala Lumpur, Zugar (by Deputy Governor) captured the National Stud Farm Challenge Cup (1600m) at Sungei Besi. (Zugar finished 2nd in the same race last year.) In Macau, Analyst (by Deputy Governor) continued his winning way by taking the Gr2 Sing Pao Macau Cup. In Malaysia’s Gr1 Selangor Gold Cup, 3rd placing went to Baby Star (by Deputy Governor). (July 1) Inglis Graduates Win 170 HK Races Inglis sale graduates finished the HK racing season with a massive 118 individual winners collecting more than 170 races. HK Derby heroine Elegant Fashion led the way from stakes-winning stars Silent Witness, Dr More & Bull’s Eye. Sydney’s Australian Easter Yearling Sale proved the flagship sale (with 51 individual winners) followed by Sydney’s Classic Sale (18) & Melbourne’s Premier Sale (16); the remainder were offered at various Inglis sales around Australia, including 11 winners from the Scone Yearling Sale. Top Inglis performers during the 2002-03 HK season include: Elegant Fashion (Danewin-Wily Trick) Easter $95,000: 6 wins (Gr1 HK Derby) & A$3.9 million. Silent Witness (El Moxie-Jade Tiara) Classic $55,000: 5 wins (Gr2 Sha Tin Vase) & A$839,835. Dr More (Danehill-Chinese Justice) Easter $260,000: 6 wins (Gr3 Sha Tin Centenary Vase) & A$2.4 million. Bull’s Eye (Rivotious-Dedicated Angel) Classic $27,500: 7 wins (Gr3 Happy Valley Trophy) & A$1million. Medic Corps (Mukaddamah-Given Thought) Scone $8,000: 5 wins & A$847,427. Planet Ruler (Danehill-Sequenza) Breeze-Up $120,000: 4 wins & A$750,080. Hidden Dragon (Danehill-Ballroom Babe) Easter $700,000: 5 wins & A$738,627. Floral Dynamite (Danehill-Caraniya) Easter $650,000: 4 wins & A$510,090. Little Elephant (Langfuhr-Sharpatan) Weanling $120,000: 4 wins & A$492,182. Lucky Owners (Danehill-Miss Priority) Easter $350,000: 3 wins & A$365,217. (July 1) Magic Millions Wins 10 In Singapore & Selangor And horses sold at Magic Millions sales around Australia won 10 weekend races in Singapore & Selangor. In Singapore on Friday night, 3 Magic Millions graduates recorded victories: Kim Tania, Lim’s Classic & Kronos. Filly Kim Tania (by shuttle sire King Of Kings & a $55,000 buy for Trevor Andrews at the 2001 MM January Yearling Sale) scored in a Class Five over 1400m; colt Lim’s Cla