Thursday, 9th April 2026
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Global Breeding, Racing and Sales News

  • NEW Te Akau Trio a Boost to MM National Mare Sale

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    Strength, performance and pedigree converge in a powerful offering set to headline May’s Magic Millions National Broodmare Sale, where three standout mares from the Te Akau Racing operation will be presented to the market. The trio – Captured By Love, Quintessa and My Lips Are Sealed – arrive with proven racetrack credentials and profiles that position them as highly desirable additions to any elite breeding program. All three will be offered through the Newgate Consignment, adding further weight to a catalogue already rich in quality. For Te Akau principal David Ellis, the decision to present this group reflects both confidence in the sale and belief in the mares themselves. “Te Akau is delighted to present three outstanding broodmare prospects at this year’s Magic Millions National Sale, with two further mares online (International Virtual Section),” he said. “They are mares with proven performance, quality pedigrees and the physical attributes we believe are so important when selecting future broodmares.” He also pointed to the track record of the sale and its organisers. “Barry Bowditch and his team run one of the very best sales operations you will find anywhere in the world, and it is a sale where we have had tremendous success over many years - both buying and selling.” Quintessa stands out as a dual Group 1 winner whose performances on both sides of the Tasman highlighted her class and resilience. By Shamus Award, she claimed the Levin Classic at three before adding the Proisir Plate at Ellerslie, a victory that came against a high-quality field. Her Melbourne campaign further underlined her competitiveness at the top level, combining wins and placings in strong company. Ellis described her as “a dual Group 1-winning mare with a tremendous turn of foot and always displayed a very strong will to win,” adding that her ability to produce a decisive finishing burst was a defining trait. “There’s a lot of quality about her…strength, athleticism and toughness…she’s a genuine, tough mare who was a real competitor at the top level.” Captured By Love brings a similarly compelling profile, having consistently performed against the best of her generation from an early age. The Written Tycoon mare won seven races, including the New Zealand 1000 Guineas, and was Group 1 placed as a juvenile in both the Sistema Stakes and Sires’ Produce Stakes. Her durability and competitiveness across multiple seasons further enhance her appeal. Ellis noted she is “a magnificent, scopy Written Tycoon mare and a real standout physically - exactly the type you want to take into the breeding barn,” highlighting her balance of athleticism and constitution. Completing the trio is My Lips Are Sealed, a daughter of Ace High whose stakes success and pedigree provide a strong foundation for her next chapter. Her wins in the Phar Lap Trophy and Lisa Chittick Champagne Stakes showcased both her ability and consistency. Ellis believes she offers the attributes breeders value most. “My Lips Are Sealed is a lovely mare and very typical of the High Chaparral sire line… she has great length, strength and presence, and all the makings of a quality broodmare.” Newgate’s Henry Field echoed that sentiment, praising both the mares and the operation behind them. “From a very young age, I have admired David Ellis as one of the absolute elite operators in our industry,” he said. “There will be very few better groups of racemares offered anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere.”

    Captured By Love

    Group 1 winner Captured By Love (pic: supplied)

  • NEW Another Glow Primed for Sydney on Saturday

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    Sharp progression has brought an exciting young filly to the brink of her biggest test yet, with Satono Glow set to line up in the Group 2 Percy Sykes Stakes (1200m) at Royal Randwick. Like Autumn Glow – no connection – her rise has been rapid albeit the former is in a different postcode. Debuting only a month ago at Warwick Farm, she quickly stepped to Group 3 level at Flemington and delivered in dominant style just 17 days later. That effort, coupled with how she has returned from Melbourne, has given trainer Tom Charlton confidence she can handle another quick turnaround. “There’s no reason why she hasn’t thrived,” Charlton said, pointing to both her physical condition and temperament since that last-start success. The filly’s development has come naturally, though he acknowledges she is still learning. “She’s got to where she has very naturally and it’s all happened quickly for her, you can see in her greenness when she does race she’s inclined to do a few things wrong. When she hits the front she has a good look around so hopefully she can keep improving.” Saturday’s assignment brings a deeper field and a different level of pressure, something Charlton is mindful of given the quality typical of the race. “It looks a decent enough race, some similar promising types coming into it, as you’d expect for a feature two-year-old fillies race,” he said. “She has a fantastic demeanour, took her trip incredibly well and has only thrived since. We’ll give it a go and hopefully she can run well.” Zac Lloyd, who trialled the filly prior to her debut win, will partner her for the first time on race day. Market support reflects her profile, with both victories achieved on soft ground, though Charlton is adamant that is more coincidence than defining trait. “From our perspective there’s no reason why she’d be a wet tracker,” he said. “She has a beautiful low action and it’s just been the way it’s fallen that she’s run on soft tracks and obviously handled it.” A $260,000 purchase at Karaka, she fits the mould the stable seeks when sourcing fillies with early potential. “We buy around five fillies a year for a fillies group and, being from a New Zealand sale, she always looked like she would come to hand reasonably quick,” Charlton revealed. “She’s not overly big but she’s very athletic and powerful behind the saddle.” Elsewhere in the team, Stitzer is building toward a potential Champagne Stakes assignment, pending his performance in the Fernhill Stakes. His debut suggested he is a colt with a longer-term profile, one Charlton is keen to develop patiently. “He’s a big, imposing, individual and has plenty of scope and substance for the next 12 months,” he said. “Each time we’ve trialled him he’s stepped forward a few lengths and that first-up run was pleasing. If he can improve off it and handle the next step he can figure in the finish.”

  • NEW Light Weight Brewster Filling Tassie Demand

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    Opportunity often lies beyond familiar borders, and for a young apprentice seeking to build momentum in a competitive riding landscape, a trip across Bass Strait offers both promise and perspective. Polly Brewster arrives in Tasmania this weekend to take up engagements at Launceston on Friday and Hobart on Sunday, following encouragement from her employer Jessica Tzaferis. With apprentice ranks currently stretched and opportunities at a premium in many jurisdictions, the move presents a timely chance to secure valuable race-day experience. A natural lightweight at 51kg and still claiming 2kg, she brings a profile that could prove attractive to local trainers, particularly with recent changes in the apprentice pool. Brewster herself sees the trip as part of a broader plan to keep progressing. “I’m very lucky with the opportunity I have been given, its somewhere different to experience and my motto is the more experience the better for my career,” she said. The idea had been forming for some time, shaped through conversations within the riding ranks and supported by those closest to her. “I was talking to everyone through the NARS series and I thought it would be somewhere I would like to go and I was speaking to Georgie (Catania) and she said it would be a good idea after the carnival and experience something new and my boss Jessica Tzaferis did a little stint down there while she was an apprentice.” That connection runs deeper than professional guidance. “Jess for many years was my mentor and I am blessed that she is now my boss.” With competition for rides intensifying, Brewster is conscious of the need to be proactive in seeking opportunities. “We will see how is goes this week-end, with the amount of jockeys around at the moment its hard everywhere to get opportunities so I think it’s worthwhile to travel where the opportunities are.” Her journey into racing has been anything but conventional. Only introduced to the sport in the aftermath of Covid, she transitioned from a successful background in BMX, where physical limitations at elite level ultimately redirected her path. A chance introduction to trackwork under trainer Sue Jaensch proved pivotal. “I had nothing really to do with racing until post covid. My aunty and uncle had shares in racehorses and they live in Naracoorte and during covid I was down there and Sue Jaensch one of the trainers asked if I wanted to have a crack at track riding and she pretty much taught me from scratch.” That foundation has quickly translated into results, with 33 winners already to her name in just two years. Strength developed through her previous sport has become an asset in the saddle. “I was pretty handy at BMX beforehand… it works as a jockey because I’m a natural lightweight and be strong at the same time so its worked out pretty good.” With five rides booked for Launceston and further opportunities likely to follow, the weekend shapes as another important step in a career built on adaptability and intent.

    Polly Brewster

    Polly Brewster is loving her Tasmanian adventure (pic: tasracing.com.au)

  • NEW Buyers Sifting Through National Online Prospects

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    Activity is building across New Zealand farms as inspections ramp up ahead of the 2026 National Online Yearling Sale, with buyers casting a wide net in search of their next racetrack performer or pinhooking prospect. The 104-lot catalogue, now live on Gavelhouse Plus, reflects a broad cross-section of the local breeding landscape, drawing strong support from leading vendors and featuring progeny by an appealing mix of established, emerging and first-season sires. Names such as Ace High, Alabama Express, Per Incanto, Proisir, Satono Aladdin and So You Think headline the proven ranks, while newer influences including Ardrossan, Armory, Circus Maximus, Noverre, Profondo and Sword of State add further depth. Beyond its reputation for producing racehorses, the sale continues to appeal to those looking to trade, with pedigrees offering layers of residual value through future broodmare prospects and pinhooking potential. That versatility is a defining feature of the online format, which has steadily gained traction in recent years. Among the catalogue highlights is Lot 21, a filly by Ace High from Shaheen, a mare connected to the influential producer Sheila Cheval, offered by Rich Hill Stud. Curraghmore presents Lot 29, a daughter of Satono Aladdin out of the Savabeel mare Tabata, while Highden Park consigns Lot 34, a Zousain colt with a pedigree that leans strongly toward European staying influences. Further depth is evident in Cambridge Stud’s Lot 48, a colt by Embellish and a half-brother to Group 2 winner Immediacy, while Lot 69, a daughter of Hellbent from Hi Hi Hi, shapes as an intriguing offering in the wake of recent Hong Kong success for Invincible Ibis. Interest is also likely to centre on Lot 78, a Satono Aladdin filly out of Inthespotlight and a full sister to Group One performer Japanese Emperor, and Lot 87, an Ocean Park filly closely related to NZB Filly of the Year Ohope Wins. Rich Hill Stud features again with Lot 96, a Proisir filly tied to the family of Skew Wiff, while Sword of State’s growing commercial appeal is reflected in Lot 99, a filly from Mistaar offered by Beaufort Downs following the sire’s strong showing at Karaka earlier this year. Graduates of the sale retain eligibility for the Karaka Millions Series, providing a direct pathway to high-value targets including the 2027 Karaka Millions 2YO and the 2028 3YO edition, as well as the NZB Mega Maiden Bonus Series. Additional incentives include an extended early entry window for the Pearl Series for fillies catalogued in the sale. Bidding will be conducted over five days, opening on Friday 10 April and closing from 6pm (NZT) on Tuesday 14 April, with prospective buyers required to register in advance through Gavelhouse Plus.

  • NEW Freedmans Profoundly Excited by Oaks Shot

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    Another milestone looms for a trainer whose résumé is already rich with elite success, yet still carries a notable gap when it comes to Australia’s classic three-year-old staying features. Since returning from Singapore in 2018, Michael Freedman has re-established himself among the country’s leading conditioners, adding to a record headlined by two Golden Slippers and a string of Group 1 victories in Sydney. What has, eluded him, however, according to punters.com.au, is a Derby or Oaks triumph on home soil, a statistic he will look to address at Royal Randwick with Adrian Knox Stakes winner Profoundly in the Group 1 Australian Oaks (2400m). The omission is more curious than concerning given his background. During the era of Freedman Brothers Incorporated, he was part of a powerhouse operation that collected 11 Oaks victories across Australia, underlining a long-standing association with training staying fillies. Opportunities in that space have been less frequent in recent years, something Freedman readily acknowledges. “I really enjoy training staying types but for one reason or another, it’s not something I get a lot of opportunities with,” he said. “It’s not by design but it’s one of those things that I don’t get too many opportunities to train these types of horses but when they do arrive, I certainly enjoy it.” Profoundly has emerged as the latest chance to bridge that gap, and her path to this point has been shaped by a familiar hand. Purchased for $65,000 at the Inglis Classic Yearling Sale, the daughter of Farnan was identified early by Lee Freedman, whose eye for a staying filly proved influential. “I remember him saying many months ago, long before we joined up, that he thinks he’s found a useful Farnan filly that might stay a bit,” Freedman said. “He know what it takes to win an Oaks and so far he’s been spot on.” Her dominant Adrian Knox performance, where she scored by more than two lengths, confirmed both her class and her stamina potential, propelling her into Oaks calculations as a leading contender. Market assessments have her as the second favourite, with the New Zealand Oaks winner Ohope Wins heading the betting. The lead-in to Saturday has been deliberately uncomplicated. Freedman has resisted the temptation to overdo things, instead allowing the filly to recover naturally from her last start. “She’s had a very steady week,” he said. “I haven’t asked anything of her since Saturday other than going out and stretching her legs. She seems very bright and has certainly done well.” Her physical condition has also pleased the stable. “She didn’t lose any body weight from her run on Saturday and that’s usually a good indicator. All the indications are she’s going to back up fine, but you never know until you run them.” The step to 2400m remains the key unknown, as it does for many in the field, though her recent win offers encouragement. A wide draw in barrier 10 adds another variable, but Freedman is content to leave the tactical puzzle to Tommy Berry. “I’d rather have drawn in a bit closer but Tommy’s got 2400 metres to sort it out,” he said, maintaining a quiet confidence that the filly will measure up on the big stage.

  • NEW Reliable Ten Warriors Ready to Front Up

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    Consistency can be a quiet currency in racing, and while wins often define reputations, the ledger tells a more nuanced story for a horse like Ten Warriors, whose returns have already justified the investment despite a modest strike rate. Prepared by Trevor Rogers, the five-year-old has only saluted once from 15 starts, yet his record reveals a level of reliability that has translated into strong earnings. Purchased for $130,000 as a yearling, the son of Saxon Warrior – also sire of freak mare Sheza Alibi – has rarely run a poor race, finishing outside the placings on just four occasions and accumulating close to $160,000 in prizemoney. Much of that success has come through astute placement, with Rogers targeting Victoria’s lucrative maiden series to maximise opportunity. Ten Warriors has featured across all three – the Emerging Stars, Future Stars and Up & Coming Stars Series – and now lines up in Saturday’s $300,000 Sportsbet Up & Coming Stars Series Final at Caulfield. “He’s been in all three series’ and I think so far at this stage he’s up to picking up around $120,000 through the heats,” Rogers said. “If he can win the final on Saturday, that will be nearly $300,000, throughout the series. I hope it happens.” The concept has proven a valuable one for smaller stables, offering a pathway for maiden-grade horses to compete for significant prizemoney without stepping into deeper waters. With a total pool of $925,000 across seven heats and a final, the series stands as Australia’s richest for horses yet to break through consistently at higher levels. “Absolutely, it gives every horse a chance in maiden grade to stay away from the top-tier horses and earn a bit of money,” Rogers enthused, highlighting the broader benefit to participants like his own. Qualification for the final came at Caulfield Heath on March 18, where Ten Warriors finally shed his maiden tag in Heat 4 over 1200m, delivering both relief and reward for connections. “Absolutely (it was a relief) and it was the right heat to win, it was worth the most amount of money,” Rogers said. “Hopefully, he can win one more and then it’s been a great run through the series.” Jamie Mott retains the ride for the final, with a favourable draw in barrier five adding to the sense that the gelding can be competitive again. Rogers has kept him ticking over with a light touch, mindful of the work already done this preparation. “He’s in great order. I gave him a soft jumpout on Monday to make sure he was still up to the mark and he showed he is,” he said. “He’s had a bit of racing this time in, but he’s showing he’s still got one in him, so fingers crossed it’s Saturday.”

  • Roma Cup Hero Looks Sharp for The Quokka

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    A dazzling return in stakes company has reinforced the growing belief that a long-held target may now be within reach for a seasoned campaigner thriving deep into his career. The Roma Cup at Ascot proved more than just another win; it offered a timely glimpse of a horse peaking at precisely the right moment. Rope Them In added to his impressive first-up record with victory in the Gr3 Roma Cup over 1100m, maintaining a remarkable strike-rate fresh and setting the tone for a tilt at the $5 million The Quokka in a fortnight. While last year’s attempt in the slot race ended without a placing behind Joker’s Grin, there is renewed confidence within the camp that this preparation has brought him to a new level. Settling off a genuine tempo set by Acromantula, he produced a decisive finishing burst to run down the previously unbeaten Smooth Chino, clocking 63.40 seconds in a performance built on both patience and power. Stable representative Tamara McGuinness sees a horse who has continued to evolve with racing. “He’s a natural athlete and I reckon he’s better than ever,” she said, adding that his racing pattern plays to his strengths. “The harder they go in front the better he goes. He’s so gutsy and we can’t fault him. He will go home to Albany and only requires a couple of gallops to be right for The Quokka.” Jockey Shaun McGruddy echoed that optimism, noting the effort came despite the gelding not being fully wound up. “Full credit to him today at weight-for-age. He’s not a big horse and Wolfie said he was only 80% fit but he responded with that explosive turn of foot.” With improvement to come, he believes the key lies in race circumstances. “He only needs to get a good run to be a chance in The Quokka. He was beaten a bit more than a length in the Winterbottom last prep and would have troubled the winner from a good draw.” Bred by Noel and Peter Carter, who retained an interest after his $60,000 sale through Willaview Park at the 2022 Perth Magic Millions, the gelding has now amassed $1.45 million in earnings, including significant Westspeed bonuses. By Playing God out of Lead Rope, his pedigree traces back to a family that has produced durable metropolitan performers. As it stands, the confirmed line-up for The Quokka is beginning to take shape and adds further depth to the challenge ahead. Rope Them In joins a growing roster that includes Newmarket Handicap winner Caballus, dual Group 1 performer Jigsaw, and the in-form Rey Magnerio, along with local filly Luana Miss and fellow Western Australian hope Smooth Chino. Interstate and international interest is represented by Jedibeel, while Talkanco and West Star add further local intrigue, and Magnificent Andy rounds out the current list of locked-in contenders. With his slot secured, the stage is set for another crack at Western Australia’s richest sprint, and on current evidence, few will head to Ascot in better form.

  • Waldron Ready to Strike While the Iron's Hot

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    Fresh from a breakthrough result that turned heads well beyond Otago, a confident return to stakes company now looms for an emerging stable intent on making its mark, reports loveracing.nz. The Wingatui-based operation, still in its infancy, has already struck a notable blow and is now aiming to double down at Riccarton Park this weekend. Cluedo Lane delivered that statement performance when taking out the Gr3 White Robe Lodge Weight-For-Age over 1600m, a result that belied both his modest rating and the strength of opposition. Carrying 59kg with a rating of just 78, he was expected to struggle against higher-rated rivals, yet accounted for Sir Albert and Matscot with authority. For trainer Joe Waldron, the outcome may have surprised the wider racing public, but not entirely those closest to the horse. "It was a surprise to a degree but not a shock for me," he said, pointing to consistent lead-up form including a narrow first-up defeat and a strong TAB Mile Trial placing. Only in his second start for the stable, the Ghibellines gelding has quickly justified the faith of co-breeder and owner Michael Stokes, with Waldron now targeting the $350,000 Southern Alps Challenge at the same trip. Careful planning has underpinned the approach, with the trainer opting to keep his charge fresh to avoid a penalty. "We purposely haven't raced him since the White Robe as we didn't want to risk getting any more weight," he explained. The resulting drop to 57kg is seen as a key advantage, despite a wide draw that mirrors his previous assignment. "He's good, he's done well in the meantime with a jumpout and a gallop between races, there are no fitness concerns… I'm confident he'll be competitive again." Waldron's journey to this point has been shaped by both local grounding and international exposure. Time spent as travelling foreman for Murray Baker provided a window into elite-level operations, later informing a stint in Victoria where results were respectable but hard-earned. "It wasn't as if I wasn't successful – I had 60 runners for 11 wins there in our last season – but up against so many big outfits it's very tough getting established," he said. Competing with modestly priced stock only heightened the challenge, reinforcing the appeal of returning home. Now back in familiar surroundings, the smaller scale of the Wingatui setup has proven an advantage. With just 10 horses in work, Waldron and partner Sarah Fannin are hands-on, riding their own trackwork and building momentum through carefully placed runners. Among those heading to Riccarton are Awesome Lineup and American Liaison, both former Victorian performers who have transitioned well. "I won two races with Awesome Lineup over there and dropping back to Rating 65 on Saturday I'm expecting a good run," Waldron said, while noting American Liaison "has definitely got more wins in him" despite tackling open company.

  • The Doncaster Stats Provide Cold Hard Facts

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    Numbers rarely lie, but on occasion they do more than confirm what the eye has seen – they elevate a performance into something altogether rarer. That was the case at Randwick last Saturday, where the Gr1 Doncaster Handicap produced a result that, through the lens of data, carries even greater authority than the visual impression. Through the analysis of The Ratings Bureaus’ Daniel O’Sullivan, the scale of Sheza Alibi’s win sharpens considerably. He described it as “a rare feat,” one that will endure in memory, before outlining that it stands as the highest-rated performance by a three-year-old in Australia or New Zealand in at least the past decade, even after weight-for-age adjustments for her 49kg. Her race pattern only adds to the significance. She was 10.7 lengths off the lead at the 800m, still 5.8 lengths back at the 400m and positioned near last, yet had the race in her keeping by the 200m. It was a display of sustained finishing power layered over a strong overall time – two elements that rarely combine at this level. O’Sullivan’s data underscores that point. He noted she ran “+12.9 lengths above standard overall and +4.4 for her final 200m,” a profile he labelled “exceptionally rare.” That combination of speed and stamina, he suggested, indicates that stepping up in trip should hold no fears, adding that “2000m will hold no concerns.” In historical terms, the performance carries further weight. O’Sullivan concluded she is “clearly the highest-rated Doncaster winner of the past decade,” both on the weights carried and on a weight-for-age adjusted basis. Comparisons with past champions reinforce the merit of that statement, placing her firmly in elite company despite still being early in her career. Attention now naturally shifts to what lies ahead. From a racing purist’s perspective, the Cox Plate presents as the logical spring target, though the Golden Eagle, with its significant prizemoney, may also enter calculations. Either way, the data suggests her ceiling remains well beyond what has already been seen. Behind her, the numbers also paint a positive picture for Autumn Boy, whose second placing rated 102.4 – an improvement on his previous peak. His progression this campaign has been steady, moving from 97.1 first-up to 99.8 in the Randwick Guineas, then 100.5 in the Rosehill Guineas, and now another step forward at the highest level. While he has repeatedly encountered one better, his profile continues to strengthen. On a day defined by one exceptional performance, the broader data suggests there may yet be significantly more to come from other runners other than just the winner.

  • Purton Says Ka Ying Can Rise Even Higher

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    A performance of outrageous authority at Sha Tin has only deepened the sense that Australia may yet see an even more formidable version of Ka Ying Rising return for the spring. Fresh off another record-breaking display, confidence within the camp is growing that the sprinter's upward trajectory is far from complete. Zac Purton, who partnered the gelding to victory in last year's Everest, believes the Hong Kong star has taken another step forward following his latest triumph in the Group 2 Sprint Cup. Clocking a blistering 1.07.12 over 1200 metres, the run added further weight to his reputation as the world's premier sprinter, and Purton was unequivocal in his assessment. "He's certainly come back from Australia in great order, and his performances show us that he seems more mature on raceday," he said, noting the horse's growing professionalism. "He's handling it so much better, and he's breaking track records for fun now. So yeah, it's scary. It's like he's a Pegasus, with the wings on his hooves." Suggestions that a testing run could expose him in a future Everest have been met with a measured response. Trainer Wayne Hawkes had floated the idea that a three-wide, no-cover scenario might prove decisive, but Purton was quick to downplay the concern while acknowledging the realities of race dynamics. "Wayne's entitled to his opinion, and he likes clickbait – that's part of his job," he said. "I wouldn't like to be caught three-wide … you don't want to take that chance. You want to give your horse every chance every time you can. Would he still be able to win? I'd like to think so, yeah. But I wouldn't want to take that chance." If there is a lingering query, it lies beneath the surface rather than in the spotlight of pressure racing. Purton admitted that a rain-affected track remains the one variable yet to be fully tested. "I would be concerned… I know what he's like on a dry track, I don't know what he's like on a wet track," he said, referencing a Randwick trial where softer conditions made for a less fluent effort. At face value, should he maintain or even possibly improve his ridiculous form, it's all but impossible to see Ka Ying Rising not bossing his rivals in the 2026 edition of The Everest.

  • Charm Stone Added to Royal Ascot Sprint Brigade

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    Ambitions of an international campaign are taking shape for Charm Stone, with plans now firmly pointing toward Royal Ascot provided the coming weeks unfold as hoped. According to racing.com, the immediate focus sits closer to home, where the mare will attempt to defend her title in the Gr1 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville on April 26. That run has been earmarked as the springboard for a northern hemisphere venture, with connections keen to see her produce the right performance and, just as importantly, come through the race in top order before committing to travel. Should those boxes be ticked, a trip to England awaits for a tilt at the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes over 1200m on June 20, where she would join fellow Australian contender Joliestar in what shapes as a deep sprint contest. Preparations for the journey are already well advanced, following detailed discussions between her team and Royal Ascot officials. Co-trainer Mick Price indicated the plan is no longer speculative. “At this stage, yes (she will be going),” he said, outlining the groundwork that has already been put in place. Logistics, including vaccinations and travel timing, have been mapped out, while a base at Charlie Fellowes’ Newmarket property has been secured. “We will stay at Charlie Fellowes’ on the flat part of Newmarket... I’m not going to try and reinvent that mare,” Price said, signalling a preference for keeping her routine as familiar as possible. A key component of the campaign would be the presence of Damian Lane, who is expected to travel from Japan to take the ride if the plan proceeds. His association with the mare runs deep, having partnered her on multiple occasions, including early wins that helped establish her profile. “I think Damian Lane is going to fly from Japan to ride her in the 1200-metre race, the Jubilee, on the Saturday. So, yeah, that’s our race,” Price said. While the opportunity is enticing, there is a clear understanding of the scale of the challenge. Royal Ascot has long been a proving ground for the world’s best sprinters, and the likely opposition will demand a peak performance. Price acknowledged that reality, pointing to the presence of top-level rivals while maintaining a sense of perspective. “Joliestar’s there, she’s won five Group 1s, we’ve won two Group 1s, but it is a horse race. You never know, do you?” The Sangster remains a critical stepping stone, not only as a Group 1 target in its own right but as the final piece of preparation before any travel. Price is mindful of the need to arrive in England with fitness already established. “All the information says don’t try and get them fit over there, so we’ll go to the Sangster,” he said. Australian sprinters have carved out a formidable record at Royal Ascot, with a string of high-profile victories over the past two decades reinforcing the strength of the local sprinting ranks. Should Charm Stone earn her place on that stage, she will be looking to add her name to a roll of honour that continues to grow.

  • Busy Weekend Ahead for Lindsay Park

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    A hustle-bustle Saturday looms for the Lindsay Park operation as runners are deployed across multiple states, with several key prospects at varying stages of their campaigns, reports racenet.com.au. At Caulfield, attention centres on a progressive juvenile filly who could yet add to her early-season stakes success. Gin Twist, already a Listed winner this campaign, is set to line up in the Redoute's Choice Stakes over 1200m following encouraging signs at home. Her most recent appearance, a third placing behind Satono Glow in the Group 3 Thoroughbred Breeders Stakes, was sound without being ideal, with conditions and race manners working against her. That outing briefly prompted discussion around a spell, but a subsequent gallop has tipped the scales toward pressing on. JD Hayes indicated the stable was satisfied with her condition, saying, "She seems to have come through her gallop nicely, at this stage we'll accept." Confidence has also been buoyed by her recovery from the Flemington run, which he described as being in "super" order despite the circumstances. The view internally is that immaturity rather than limitation played its part. "We think she was just a bit fresh and it might have been the wet track," Hayes said, adding that a more suitable surface would allow a clearer assessment of her capabilities at the trip. "If we get conditions to suit, we want to see if she can run a strong 1200m. It'll help us shape what she targets in the spring." The race will also introduce Gleamstone, a $700,000 Ready To Run purchase, who earned his chance with a sharp Werribee jumpout. While still learning, his presence adds depth to the stable's representation on a day when they cast a wide net across Caulfield, Randwick and Morphettville. In Adelaide, the spotlight falls on Stung (see below) who continues to build a compelling case as a leading Australasian Oaks contender. Her dominant win in the Clare Lindop Stakes suggested a filly on the rise, and improvement is expected again stepping into the Auraria Stakes. Hayes was unequivocal in his assessment: "Stung has improved out of her last start, I think she'll be very hard to beat on the weekend." Elsewhere, sprint ambitions are beginning to crystallise around The Goodwood, with Pisanello and Tycoon Star both resuming their upward curves. The former was solid first-up in the Hoysted Stakes and is expected to strip fitter, while the latter went within a whisker of winning fresh. "Pisanello will improve after his first-up run after a long time off," Hayes said, adding of Tycoon Star, "He's improved as well, (we're) looking forward to seeing him again."

  • Autumn Glow Dodges Potentially Disruptive Bullet

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    A clearer path has emerged for Autumn Glow heading into the Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Royal Randwick on Saturday, with the absence of a key rival reshaping the tactical landscape for the $5 million feature. Unbeaten through 11 starts, the four-year-old will step beyond a mile for the first time, drawing barrier two in a compact field of eight. While her preparation has been faultless to date, much of the pre-race discussion has centred on who will not be there, rather than who will. Pride Of Jenni’s decision to contest the Queen Of The Turf instead removes one of racing’s most disruptive on-pace forces from the equation. Her front-running exploits, highlighted by that extraordinary 2024 Queen Elizabeth performance where she opened up a massive mid-race lead before scoring decisively, have the capacity to reshape races in ways few others can. For part-owner John Messara, that absence is significant. “She can disrupt the race,” he said. “She can go 10 [lengths] in front … then all of a sudden you think, ‘I can’t let her get too far in front’. So you push, push, push, and you upset the apple cart. In a way, I prefer she’s not there.” Without that dynamic, the race is expected to unfold in a more conventional pattern, something that may suit a horse stepping up in distance for the first time. Autumn Glow remains a dominant $1.40 favourite, her record and consistency underpinning strong market confidence. The step to 2000m poses a fresh question, but her racing style and progression suggest she is well equipped to handle the challenge. Beyond Saturday, discussion has also touched on the possibility of a match race between the unbeaten mare and the established star she will not meet this weekend. Pride Of Jenni’s owner, Tony Ottobre, has floated the idea of a high-stakes one-on-one contest, but Messara views such scenarios with caution. “Those match races are of questionable interest to people and if there’s a big differential with one or the other horse, you get a ridiculous outcome,” he said. “You could beat the other horse by four or five. It takes all the fun out of life.” While not dismissing the concept entirely, he acknowledged the unpredictability involved. “It could be either way, I don’t know. She’s a great mare and has a lot of heart. It’s an unlikely outcome, but I’m always open to suggestions.” The immediate focus remains firmly on the task at hand, where a rising star has the opportunity to extend an unblemished record on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

    Pride of Jenni

    Pride of Jenni won't run in the Queen Elizabeth (pic: Mark Gatt)

  • Further Tests for Campaldino Before Green Light

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    Plans for the Sydney Cup have been thrown into uncertainty after a routine veterinary check raised an unexpected concern around leading contender Campaldino, casting doubt over his participation in the two-mile feature at Royal Randwick, reports punters.com.au. The issue emerged during standard inspections conducted on Tuesday morning, where the presence of cardiac arrhythmia was detected. It came as a surprise to connections, particularly given the gelding’s recent performance when finishing second in the Chairman’s Handicap (2600m), a run that suggested he was on track for a peak showing. Co-trainer Adrian Bott confirmed there had been no prior indication of any irregularity. “He presented with cardiac arrhythmia in the tests this morning,” he said. “He’ll go through the ECG process. He was checked immediately following the race (on Saturday) and all the vital signs, everything was all in order.” The absence of any previous history has added to the unusual nature of the case. “It’s a bit of an unusual case. He’s never had any history. It’s something that has just popped up.” Further testing is now underway, with blood samples taken and additional monitoring planned. A key step will come on Thursday, when the horse is required to gallop in front of racing officials in order to demonstrate that the condition has resolved before being cleared to compete. Despite the setback, the stable has maintained a measured approach, with the welfare of the horse taking precedence over any race-day ambitions. Bott emphasised that Campaldino would only take his place in the Gr1 Sydney Cup (3200m) if there was complete confidence in his fitness and wellbeing. If cleared, the expectation remains that he can perform strongly. A proven stayer, he arrives off a preparation that mirrors successful Sydney Cup campaigns the stable has executed in the past. His latest effort at Randwick reinforced that he is nearing peak condition, while his previous Brisbane Cup victory over the same distance provides further confidence in his credentials. Barrier 14 presents an added challenge, although his tactical speed offers some flexibility in navigating the early stages. Tim Clark has been booked to ride, should the gelding receive the final clearance. For now, however, attention remains firmly on the immediate task of ensuring he passes the required examinations, with a decision on his participation hinging entirely on the outcome of those tests.

  • Japanese Derby Hero Strikes Again

    Thursday, 9th April 2026
    At Hanshin on Sunday, a colt already etched into Japanese racing folklore reaffirmed his standing with a performance that blended resilience, class and tactical maturity, as Croix Du Nord returned to winning form in the G1 Osaka Hai over 2000m. The victory, his third at the highest level, came against a field rich in proven talent and underlined his credentials for a major international campaign later in the year. Settling from the widest gate in 15, the near-black colt was asked to do early work, gradually working across to sit three deep with cover through the opening stages. Up front, Meisho Tabaru dictated proceedings at a strong tempo, carving out the first 1000m in 58.01 and ensuring the race would be a genuine test of both stamina and positioning. With the field compacting approaching the home turn, Croix Du Nord improved into the leading division, travelling with purpose as the pressure intensified. Turning for home, Meisho Tabaru attempted to kick clear, but Croix Du Nord was poised to strike. When asked for his effort, he responded with determination, gradually wearing down the leader before asserting in the closing stages to score by three-quarters of a length. Danon Decile, another Japanese Derby winner, finished strongly nearer the inside to claim third, while Tagano Dude closed late to be beaten narrowly for that position. The result not only marked a return to peak form but also secured a berth in the G1 Irish Champion Stakes, providing connections with a clear international target. For jockey Yuichi Kitamura, the win carried both relief and affirmation after the colt’s recent high-profile outings. “To be honest, I'm relieved that we were able to win and live up to the expectations as race favourite,” he said. He acknowledged the testing conditions and race dynamics, adding, “The going was tough to handle and the incredible speed of the pacesetter, Meisho Tabaru, was also tough to beat but I gave my all to drive the colt to the wire in which he responded beautifully.” Looking ahead, Kitamura expressed confidence in what lies ahead, noting, “I'm confident that this season will be all about Croix du Nord and that he will play the leading role in all of his starts.” Already crowned a champion two-year-old following victories in the Hopeful Stakes and Tokyo Sports Hai Nisai Stakes, the Sunday Racing representative has consistently competed at the elite level. His three-year-old season featured a narrow second in the Satsuki Sho before a defining triumph in the Tokyo Yushun. Internationally, he has also shown his quality, edging out future Arc winner Daryz in France before contesting Europe’s premier middle-distance events. Bred by Northern Farm, Croix Du Nord is by Kitasan Black, a sire whose influence continues to grow, headlined by the exceptional Equinox. Out of the Group 2-winning mare Rising Cross – she placed in both the Gr1 Oaks and Gr1 Irish Oaks – his pedigree blends stamina and class, traits that were again on full display in a performance that signals he remains a major force on the global stage.
Amarina Farm
Arrowfield Stud
Bell River Thoroughbreds
Berkeley Park Stud
Bhima Thoroughbreds
Blue Gum Farm
Bombora Downs
Clear Mountain Fairview
Coolmore Stud
Cressfield
Evergreen Stud
Kingstar Farm
Lime Country Thoroughbreds
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Murrulla Stud
Newhaven Park
Segenhoe Stud
Silverdale Farm
Sledmere Stud
Torryburn Stud
Tyreel Stud
Vinery Stud
Widden Stud
Willow Park Stud
Yarraman Park Stud

2025 BTR Stud Stallions

BTP STUD STALLIONS

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