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Pardi Strikes Again at Inglis' Australian Weanling Sale
Wednesday, 6th May 2026
A familiar strategy played out once more at Riverside, where confidence, timing and a willingness to stretch combined to deliver the top lot on the opening day of the Australian Weanling Sale. Having enjoyed a lucrative result twelve months earlier, Stefan Pardi returned with a clear plan and executed it again, securing a standout filly with the aim of repeating a proven formula. This time it was a Shinzo (Snitzel) x Special Lover filly from Noorilim Park who captured his attention, the hammer falling at $600,000 despite an initial budget set lower. The purchase followed a blueprint that had already paid handsome dividends, with last year's Too Darn Hot colt – also secured by Pardi – later pinhooked through the Widden Stud draft at Easter and sold for $2.2 million. "It was more than I wanted to pay, I had $500,000 for her but when you get these quality weanlings like last year…you've got to go hard," Pardi said. "She was my number one pick of the sale so I wanted to go away with her and I think she's a real Easter candidate for next year." The filly's athleticism and physical balance were key factors in that decision. "She just floated when she moved, she was all quality, she's the right height, she's not going to get too big," he added, before pointing to the appeal of her sire. "Shinzo, in Australia we have a love affair with first season sires… I think he's just a standout as a first season sire." The intention is to follow the same path – develop, present through Widden and target the Easter Yearling Sale – while hoping for a similar return. "Hopefully we're back here at Easter next year with the Thompson crew having a celebration like we did a few weeks ago with the Enbihaar colt," he said. For Noorilim Park, the result continued a strong run at the sale. After topping the filly section last year, the Victorian nursery went one better this time, with Peter Carrick unsurprised by the depth of interest. "I had her on the market at $500,000 and if we didn't get it, I was happily going to take her home but there was plenty of love for her in the ring," he said, noting the level of scrutiny she attracted. "She had 190 inspections, 18 X-Rays and quite a few vet inspections, so she was very busy." The depth of demand was further illustrated by the sale of a Frankel x Awhile colt, purchased for $400,000 by Grenville Stud. Pardi, acting for the team, framed the decision in simple terms. "Supply and demand. There are only two Frankel colts that are candidates for yearling sales next year… supply is going to be small and demand is going to be high." Coolmore's Tom Moore echoed the sentiment, describing the colt as "a standout" with a pedigree capable of succeeding at any major sale. Together, the results reinforced the continued appetite for quality and the enduring appeal of a well-executed pinhooking strategy.

The Shinzo-Special Lover filly realised $600,000 (pic: inglis.com.au)
Australian Weanling Sale Kicks off With Gusto
Wednesday, 6th May 2026
A buoyant opening session at Riverside has set a positive tone for the Inglis Australian Weanling Sale, with strong competition and broad-based buying underpinning a marked lift on last year's figures. Despite a reduced catalogue, the market showed resilience at the upper end and encouraging depth through the middle tiers, reinforcing confidence among vendors and agents alike. By the close of trade on Day 1, turnover had reached $10,599,000, with an average of $73,604 and a median of $50,000 – gains of 13 per cent, 37 per cent and 67 per cent respectively on the corresponding session in 2025. The rise in median, in particular, was a key indicator of the improved quality and balance within the catalogue. Inglis Bloodstock chief executive Sebastian Hutch was measured but clearly pleased with the outcome. "I'm pleasantly surprised, but really I shouldn't be…we knew we had been supported by good breeders with a good catalogue of foals and given who is here, it makes sense that there were plenty of positives to the day," he said. The reduced offering – 45 fewer foals than the same day last year—did little to dampen demand. "For the median to be up 67% is striking and it speaks volumes for the greater depth to the catalogue, which has been recognised by buyers." That sentiment was reflected in the spread of buyers at the top end. A total of 34 weanlings realised $100,000 or more, while 18 different entities secured the top 19 highest-priced lots, highlighting both diversity and confidence across the buying bench. Even so, Hutch was careful to temper the optimism with a realistic assessment of current conditions. "It's not all blue sky – there are still plenty of challenges in the market, particularly in terms of stock perceived to be at the lower end – but all things considered, I think it was a very good day," he said, noting that opportunities remain throughout the catalogue for astute buyers. Attention now turns to the second and final day of the sale, where a further 223 weanlings will be offered. The strength shown in the opening session is also expected to carry through to the next phase of the Inglis Breeding Stock Sales Series, with Thursday evening's Chairman's Sale looming as a major international highlight. Hutch believes the early results provide a timely reminder of the broader market dynamics at play. "Looking ahead to Thursday, I think the strength of the weanling market is a good reminder to breeders and buyers of the potential in the pregnant mares that are in The Chairman's Sale too," he said. With momentum building across the week and quality evident at multiple levels, the early signs suggest the Riverside series is once again delivering both commercial activity and confidence for the breeding sector.
Edmonds and Extragalactic Reaching for the Stars
Wednesday, 6th May 2026
A breakthrough at the highest level can redefine a trainer's trajectory, and for Trent Edmonds the opportunity to take that step arrives in Saturday's Goodwood at Morphettville, suggests racenet.com.au. The Victorian-based horseman, now operating independently after several seasons alongside his father Toby in Queensland, is looking to Extragalactic to deliver the result that elevates his career into a new phase. Six years on from sharing Group 1 success in the Stradbroke Handicap, Edmonds is chasing a first major triumph in his own right, having established a boutique team at Pakenham since relocating in early 2024. The ambition is clear, as is the significance of the moment should his talented filly measure up on one of South Australia's biggest stages. "Everyone needs one to start them off … a really good horse and a big result," Edmonds said. "I'm hopeful she's the one that can catapult me to the next level, and make people sit up and take notice." Reflecting on earlier success, he acknowledged the unusual circumstances surrounding that Stradbroke victory. "Obviously when I won the Stradbroke with dad in the Covid year – there was no one there. It was a bit dulling, if you know what I mean? If this girl can get the job done on Saturday, that would be the biggest moment of my career, and one of the biggest moments of my life." The daughter of Deep Field has already hinted at her credentials, most notably when flashing home for second in the Gr2 Tobin Bronze Stakes behind Tycoon Star. From a testing barrier, she was forced to concede ground early before finishing strongly to close within a length, a performance Edmonds believes could easily have been a winning one under different circumstances. "She was super. She was a bit of a tragedy beaten, the barrier beat her, pure and simple," he said, pointing to the race shape that left her with too much to do. "We just had to get too far back, and nothing really took her into the race." Since returning from that run, Extragalactic has continued to please in her work, with Edmonds noting her consistency and appetite as positive indicators heading into Saturday's assignment. A drop to 50.5kg is another factor in her favour, particularly in a race where established performers are expected to dominate the market. "I honestly think that she's improved," he stated. "She's been perfect since she arrived home, hasn't left a dipper of feed, has licked the bowl clean and she goes from strength to strength." While acknowledging the depth of opposition, Edmonds remains quietly optimistic that the right circumstances could see his filly make a significant statement, with apprentice Luke Cartwright booked for the ride as he seeks his own maiden Group 1 success.
Minnie Hauk Shaping to Be a Major Hauk
Wednesday, 6th May 2026
A measured return at Group level has set the tone for what could develop into a defining middle-distance campaign, with Minnie Hauk resuming in style to claim the Gr2 Mooresbridge Stakes and reassert her standing among the elite mares in training. The dual Oaks heroine, absent since a demanding international campaign, showed no signs of rust in a performance that blended patience with authority, reports racingpost.com. Run at an even tempo set by stablemate Edward Hamilton, the race initially took on an unexpected complexion as the outsider stretched the field and established a significant lead turning for home. For a brief moment, the contest threatened to slip away from the more fancied runners, with the longshot still travelling strongly and holding a commanding advantage inside the final two furlongs. That margin, however, began to evaporate as Ryan Moore gradually asked Minnie Hauk to lengthen. Still under a composed ride, the response was immediate and decisive, the Frankel mare closing rapidly approaching the furlong marker before asserting control in the closing stages. Without needing to be fully extended, she swept past to score comfortably, putting a length and three-quarters on her stable companion, with Adelaide River a further length and a half away in third on his first outing for Joseph O’Brien. The performance marked an ideal starting point for a campaign that had been carefully mapped out following her sixth placing in the Breeders’ Cup Turf, which came on the back of a narrow defeat in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Connections had been keen to ensure a smooth reintroduction, favouring a genuinely run race over a slowly run affair that might blunt her finishing strengths. “That was lovely,” said O’Brien. “You’d be delighted with that. We wanted a nice, even pace so she could get back into gear a little bit. We didn’t want a dawdle, so it was lovely for her. She travelled with all the zest she did last year and won very snugly. You couldn’t be happier with her and Ryan was very happy. He said he just let her point her toe a bit the last furlong. The Tattersalls Gold Cup is the plan, and that was the perfect prep for it.” With that objective now looming, the pathway beyond remains fluid but enticing. A successful showing later this month could open the door to Royal Ascot, where the Prince of Wales’s Stakes shapes as a logical next step, while a return to Longchamp in the autumn may offer an opportunity to revisit unfinished business at the highest level.
Leading WA Stable Decamping to South Australia
Wednesday, 6th May 2026
A bold interstate move is set to reshape one of Western Australia’s more progressive young operations, with Indianna Weinert preparing to relocate her stable to South Australia at the close of the current season. According to thewest.com.au, the decision follows a breakthrough weekend that saw Smooth Chino underline his credentials with victory in the Gr3 Northam Stakes, adding further weight to a campaign now poised to extend beyond familiar borders. Based in the Great Southern, Weinert has built steady momentum this season with 24 winners, placing her third on the state’s provincial premiership behind Peter Fernie and the Pearce brothers, and ahead of established names including Adam Durrant and Grant and Alana Williams. Yet with the Albany season drawing to a close, the prospect of continuing through another off-season of long-distance travel proved less appealing than a fresh start. “We are relocating the stable. The Albany season is coming to an end, and I didn’t know what I wanted to do at the end of this season,” Weinert said. The opportunity to secure a property with stabling at Gawler ultimately tipped the balance. “It’s a long way from Perth and I didn’t want to do all that travelling in the off-season again, so this opportunity arose, and we’ve purchased a house in Adelaide with stables. We’re right on the Gawler racecourse. It’s just so ideal. We don’t have to go anywhere, and we’ve got the track at our doorstep.” Not all owners will follow, with some electing to keep their horses in Western Australia, but Weinert has been deliberate in shaping the team she intends to take. “Some owners have jumped aboard and said I can take their horses, and some haven’t,” she revealed, adding that a focus on quality had guided the final composition. “But that’s okay; I totally understand. I’m trying to just take quality over there and had to cull a few horses and say they’re not good enough to go because it’s a big thing to take horses over there. The team is looking pretty strong to go to Adelaide.” Central to those plans is Smooth Chino, whose recent form has elevated him to flagship status. The gelding will remain partnered with Austin Galati, with Weinert reaffirming the strength of their association despite a brief interruption leading into The Quokka. “I think we’ve all learned our lesson. The horse runs for him and he jumps out the gates,” she said. “Austin is such a cool character, and he knows this horse.” One final appearance in Western Australia awaits in the Gr3 Belmont Sprint over 1400m before a spell and subsequent transition to the new base. “We’re going to step him up to 1400m now,” Weinert said. “He was still finding the line yesterday over 1300m, so I think the 1400m will be ideal to see his prep out. The sky is the limit…” By Maschino, Smooth Chino alrwady boasts earnings of around $640,000.

Austin Galati with trainer Indianna Weinert (pic: Western Racepix)
Governance Concerns Behind Key Ascot Decision
Wednesday, 6th May 2026
A significant shift in British racing's governance landscape is looming, with Ascot Racecourse set to withdraw from the Racecourse Association at the end of the year after efforts to resolve concerns over the body's structure fell short. The move follows months of discussion and comes amid broader unrest regarding representation and decision-making within the sport. As reported by TDN, the issue first gained traction in March, in the wake of Lord Allen's resignation as chair of the British Horseracing Authority and the failure to establish an independent BHA Board. A joint statement from the Jockey Club and leading independent tracks, including Ascot, Goodwood, Newbury and York, called for an urgent review of governance at the RCA, outlining the need for a more balanced and effective framework. Correspondence sent to RCA chairman Wilf Walsh set out clear expectations, with signatories seeking a model that would provide credible representation, ensure key racecourses could influence outcomes and enable more decisive action on industry-wide matters. While discussions continued in the weeks that followed, no agreement was reached that satisfied those pushing for reform. Ascot's decision to step away has been framed as a considered one, rooted in long-term priorities rather than short-term frustration. Chief executive Felicity Barnard emphasised the measured nature of the move. "The decision to move away from the RCA was not taken lightly and was guided by our view that this is in the interests of the long-term health of the sport," she said. Barnard noted that engagement with the RCA had been constructive, but ultimately insufficient in delivering the changes sought. "In the period since 3rd March, we have engaged constructively with the RCA and remained clear and consistent with our request for governance reform; reform that we believe is necessary to reflect the evolving needs of our sport and its stakeholders," she said. "Regrettably, sufficient progress has not been made." Despite the split, Ascot has signalled its intention to remain actively involved in the wider industry, maintaining a collaborative approach beyond formal association membership. The development adds another layer to an evolving governance debate that continues to shape the direction of British racing. For Australian participants, Ascot's standing remains undiminished. With Royal Ascot continuing to attract elite international sprinters, the Berkshire venue has established itself as a familiar and successful hunting ground for Australian owners and trainers in recent decades, with more antipodean raiders soon to grace the hallowed turf.
Transformed Belmont Park Well on The Way
Wednesday, 6th May 2026
A new era for New York racing is rapidly taking shape, with Belmont Park's transformation nearing a milestone moment ahead of its September 18 reopening. Rising from nearly three years of construction, the redevelopment signals a decisive shift away from the scale and structure of the past toward a modern, year-round facility built for contemporary racing audiences. For all its history and grandeur, the original Belmont Park had long outlived the era for which it was designed. Constructed in the 1960s to accommodate crowds of 25,000, it had become increasingly unsuited to a landscape now driven by digital wagering and changing spectator expectations. In its place stands a reimagined venue focused on accessibility, comfort and enhanced viewing experiences. New York Racing Association CEO Dave O'Rourke believes the result will set a new benchmark. "In a few months, people will be seeing the newest and most modern racing facility in all of North America," he said during a recent tour of the site, pointing to the scale and ambition of the project. Central to that vision is a $455 million glass-enclosed grandstand designed to bring fans closer to the action, complemented by a further $100 million investment in racing infrastructure. The overhaul includes a rebuilt main track, two turf courses and the addition of a fourth, inner all-weather surface, as well as a redesigned infield capable of hosting major events such as the Belmont Stakes and Breeders' Cup. While the grandstand will initially open with limited access – two of its five levels accommodating crowds of around 6,000 to 8,000 – the broader concept is already evident. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels will allow patrons to watch horses move through the tunnel to the track, while a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces offer uninterrupted views of both the racing surface and paddock. The emphasis on hospitality is equally pronounced, with a suite of premium offerings including Champion Suites and a range of membership and mini-plan seating options. Higher up, a fifth-floor Sky Terrace will combine dining with panoramic views, while the expanded paddock integrates tradition with innovation, retaining the iconic Japanese white pine as a focal point. "Expanding the size of the paddock and incorporating the iconic Belmont tree while also giving the ability to have it for year-round use is one of the key features in this area," said NYRA executive Glen Kozak. Progress on the racing surfaces has been swift, with turf courses laid and the new Tapeta track already approved for training. A state-of-the-art irrigation system, supported by a 15 million-gallon reservoir, underscores the focus on efficiency and safety. With completion of the remaining works imminent, anticipation continues to build for a reopening that promises to redefine the Belmont experience while honouring its storied past.
Avoidable Errors Blamed for Hobart Cup Calamity
Wednesday, 6th May 2026
What unfolded at Hobart in February has now been laid bare as a chain of avoidable errors, with an administrative oversight ultimately leading to the state's signature staying race being run over the wrong distance. According to racenet.com.au, findings from an investigation into the Hobart Cup have confirmed the race was contested approximately 40 metres short of its advertised 2400m, raising serious questions around process and oversight. The issue stemmed from reliance on an incorrect spreadsheet used to mark the starting position, a mistake that went unchecked until moments before the race. By that stage, despite the discrepancy being identified by officials on the ground and relayed to the Chief Steward, a decision was taken to proceed as scheduled. The result stood, with Blonde Star narrowly defeating Ziryab in what was recorded as track record time, and correct weight declared without objection on the day. Tasmanian Racing Integrity Commissioner Sean Carroll was subsequently tasked with examining the circumstances surrounding the incident, and his report outlined five key areas of concern. Central among them was the failure to verify critical race-day data, compounded by a breakdown in communication at multiple levels once the issue came to light. The investigation revealed that while the error in barrier placement had been recognised prior to the start, there was no adjustment made, nor any attempt to inform participants or the public either before or after the race. That lack of transparency, combined with the decision to proceed, has been identified as a major factor in undermining confidence in the integrity of the event. Further scrutiny was directed at the response following the race, with Tasracing's executive criticised for not escalating the matter once it became apparent. The cumulative effect, according to the report, was a failure of systems rather than an isolated mistake, with multiple opportunities missed to correct or mitigate the situation. Carroll has issued nine recommendations aimed at preventing a repeat, focusing on improved record-keeping, clearer operational protocols and stronger communication channels when irregularities arise. The emphasis is on ensuring staff are better supported in their roles while also establishing safeguards that reduce the risk of similar oversights. "The Hobart Cup is the centrepiece event on the Tasmanian summer racing calendar, and I share the expectations of the Tasmanian racing industry and broader public that all races conducted by Tasracing are held to the highest standard of integrity," Carroll said. He added that Tasracing is already working to strengthen its procedures. "Tasracing is reviewing and improving its race day systems and procedures, with a greater focus on supporting staff to deliver their roles effectively and to the highest standard, to ensure that such an incident does not happen again."
Byrne Burke Century Quest Remains in Play
Wednesday, 6th May 2026
A treble at Devonport has kept a significant seasonal milestone firmly within reach, with Erica Byrne Burke continuing her strong association with trainer Adam Trinder to edge closer to a century of wins. According to tasracing.com.au, the eight-race program on Sunday provided another showcase for the in-form partnership, which combined for three victories and further strengthened their grip on the current campaign. Now sitting on 74 wins for the season, Byrne Burke remains well placed with 12 meetings still to come in the 2025/26 term. The strike rate alongside Trinder has been a defining feature of that progress, and the latest trio of successes again highlighted their effectiveness when combining forces. Of the three, Khaleesi’s Dream produced the most eye-catching performance, overcoming a testing run from a wide draw to dominate a 1350m maiden by a widening margin. The three-year-old filly showed determination early before asserting her class late, ultimately surging clear to score by 8.5 lengths in a display that suggested further upside. “She’s still a second and a half off the track record, so she’s still got a bit of speed to find to match her mother,” Trinder said, referencing Dothraki Princess, who set the 1350m benchmark in September 2019. Despite the emphatic nature of the win, the trainer indicated a measured approach moving forward. “She’s heading in the right direction, but that will do her for this preparation; she’s done enough.” The stable’s success was complemented by a broader family contribution, with Trinder’s father, Michael, also making his mark through Star Territory, a class 1 winner over 1150m at his first start in the state. That result formed part of a race-to-race double for jockey Kelvin Sanderson, who followed up with victory aboard Miss Keeds in the subsequent event. Elsewhere on the card, Daniel Ganderton enjoyed a productive opening to the program, securing a double with Tikken and Simply Deep. The former, prepared by Trent Wells, made a successful Tasmanian debut after arriving as a tried runner from Victoria, benefiting from a drop in grade that suited his profile. “Daniel rides this horse nearly every day, so he knows him,” Wells said, adding that familiar surroundings and careful placement can often unlock improved performances in new environments. With momentum building across multiple stables and riders, the Devonport meeting offered a clear snapshot of a competitive and evolving local scene.

Amarina Farm

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2025 BTR Stud Stallions

BTP STUD STALLIONS

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De Gaulle Established
Delaware Established
Denman Established
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Don Corleone 3rd Season
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Dundeel Established
Ellsberg 1st crop 2YOs
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Flying Artie Established
Foxwedge Established
Frankel My Dear Established
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Gold Standard Established
Graff Established
Grunt Established
Hallowed Crown Established
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Southport Tycoon 2nd Season
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Sweet Ride 3rd Season
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Daily News

Pardi Strikes Again at Inglis' Australian Weanling Sale

The Shinzo-Special Lover filly realised $600,000 (pic: inglis.com.au)

Australian Weanling Sale Kicks off With Gusto

Edmonds and Extragalactic Reaching for the Stars

Minnie Hauk Shaping to Be a Major Hauk

Leading WA Stable Decamping to South Australia

Austin Galati with trainer Indianna Weinert (pic: Western Racepix)

Governance Concerns Behind Key Ascot Decision

Transformed Belmont Park Well on The Way

Avoidable Errors Blamed for Hobart Cup Calamity

Byrne Burke Century Quest Remains in Play

2025 BTR Stud Stallions

BTP STUD STALLIONS