NEWTentyris’ Biggest Newmarket Challenge is Weight
Weekend, 16th February 2026
Speculation has been running hot since Saturday’s Lightning Stakes, with one question dominating the aftermath: will the brilliant colt who tore down the Flemington straight now back up in the Newmarket? Tentyris (Street Boss) delivered a performance of rare authority, rounding up seven rivals in a matter of strides and asserting late to win with something in hand, immediately firming to $1.75 in All-In betting for the handicap feature. For all the market confidence, certainty remains elusive, reports racing.com. The Anthony and Sam Freedman-trained three-year-old now finds his fate resting largely with Racing Victoria’s chief handicapper, David Hegan, who must determine how severely that Group 1 triumph alters his rating. “I’d rather the pressure go on to Dave Hegan than us,” Freedman said, conceding the weight could quickly become prohibitive. “A cutoff – I’m not sure. Coming into this prep we were thinking he was going to have 54 and a half or 55. It’s obviously likely he’s going to have more.” Context will be everything. With Giga Kick and Joliestar both unlikely to take their place at this stage, the possibility looms that Tentyris could be asked to shoulder 59kg. “But it’s relative as well to what else is there. If there’s no superstar or there’s nothing thrown in at the weights, you could potentially line-up,” Freedman said. History offers little comfort: no horse in the modern era has carried 59kg to victory in a Newmarket, Hay List’s 58.5kg in 2012 the closest comparison. Nature Strip was allotted 59.5kg in 2013 and did not run, while one must look back to Bernborough and Gold Stakes to find winners shouldering more than 59kg. The age factor compounds the dilemma. As a three-year-old, Tentyris would be venturing into territory rarely conquered under such imposts. Weekend Hussler captured the race at the same age in 2008, but with 56kg, even after an Oakleigh Plate victory. “Fifty-nine sounds ridiculous, to be honest, for a three-year-old in a Newmarket,” Freedman said. “I’m not sure how many have carried that weight at all, in the race, but it is what it is.” Freedman also pointed to the modern calendar, where multiple high-value options dilute the handicap’s depth. “You’re a victim of everyone having so many options. You’d love to see some of those better horses have to run in a Newmarket, because there are no other options. In the past… you’d have big fields, horses right down in the weights, horses carrying big weights in a proper handicap.” Beyond March, horizons stretch far wider. Royal Ascot has been floated since his Coolmore triumph, and there is enthusiasm within Godolphin for Tentyris to travel. “We’d love to (go overseas), and there’s an appetite from Godolphin to see him travelling,” Freedman said. An Everest clash with Ka Ying Rising also tempts, though the trainer admits a straight-track showdown would be purer theatre. For now, however, the scales will speak first.
The nature of his win will ensure Tentyris a big Newmarket weight (pic: Mark Gatt)
NEWRidgeport and Mogumber Dominate Pinjarra
Weekend, 16th February 2026
Ahead of this week’s Magic Millions Perth Sale, Pinjarra’s Magic Millions meeting delivered a two-pronged domination, with Ridgeport Farm and Mogumber Park combining to shape the headline races on Saturday. The $250,000 RL Magic Millions WA 2YO Classic (1200m) went to 2YO filly Maria Lucia (Rommel-Mindarie, by Safeguard), and Ridgeport’s stallion Rommel (Commands) later completed a feature double when Twisted Steel won the $250,000 RL Magic Millions WA 3YO Trophy (1200m). According to tbwa.net.au, Mogumber Park-bred Maria Lucia was conceived in the sixth and final book Rommel covered there before he relocated from Bullsbrook to Waroona in 2023. Owner Maureen Daly also collected the $60,000 Magic Millions WA Racing Women’s 2YO Bonus, and the result kept it in the family after her older half-brother Do I Feel Lucky (Dirty Work) won the same race last year. “She is just a beautiful horse,” co-trainer Sean Casey said. “Chris (Parnham) made a plan how he was going ride her and was very confident going into race.” The Mogumber Park team of Colin Brown and Fiona Lacey also tasted success earlier when their 2023 Magic Millions graduate Shamilian Miss (Shamus Award) landed the Geisel Park Stud Hcp (1600m), having been sold for $135,000 as agent for Woodbridge Thoroughbreds breeders Ian Riley and Rachelle Huckson. A 3YO gelding, Twisted Steel (Rommel-Real Beauty by I Am Invincible), bred by Jason Cheetham, became Rommel’s fourth individual black-type winner and his second winner of the Magic Millions WA 3YO Trophy, following Pixie Chix in 2022. Ridgeport owner Santo Guagliardo bred and sold Pixie Chix for $20,000 at the 2021 Perth Magic Millions through Mogumber Park as agent, and he also struck on Saturday when Ridgeport-bred Monte Tremezzo (Hellbent) split runners late to win the Darling View Thoroughbreds Hcp (1400m) for trainer Dan Morton’s clients. With the Karrakatta Plate (1200m) now on the radar, Parnham was pleased with the filly’s professionalism under pressure. “She’s a talented filly and I had to extricate her out of a tricky situation in running. She couldn’t have impressed me more and I think she’s got a fair bit left in store.” Twisted Steel had been bought for $100,000 through the Ruby Racing & Breeding consignment at the 2024 Perth Magic Millions and won his first two starts before a summer campaign that didn’t go to plan. “I thought he could be a Winterbottom Stakes horse but he was too revved up and not chilled enough pre-race to take on a field of Group 1 sprinters,” trainer Simon Miller said. “We were asking too much too early but my team have done a great job and now he’s really starting to settle.” A break is planned ahead of the $5 million The Quokka (1200m) at Ascot on April 18, and Clint Johnston-Porter agreed: “I’ve always had a massive opinion of this horse. We idled up to Heeza Phoenix and when I looked around I knew it was going to be an easy win.”
NEWYulong Invests in Another Key Oaks Filly
Weekend, 16th February 2026
A significant ownership shift has added fresh intrigue to Saturday’s Gr1 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai New Zealand Oaks (2400m) at Ellerslie, with Waikato Guineas winner Autumn Glory (NZ) to carry the green and white of Yulong Investments. According to racingnews.co.nz, the daughter of Ocean Park heads into the Classic off a dominant Gr2 performance at Te Rapa, where she overwhelmed her male rivals and confirmed the promise she had hinted at since breaking her maiden at Ruakaka in January. Patiently prepared by Roger James and Robert Wellwood, the filly has been handled as a late bloomer, her trainers resisting the urge to rush her through the grades. That patience was tested when she struck a bottomless surface at Taranaki at her second start, but the experience ultimately hardened her. James revealed they had long held her in high regard, stepping her straight from maiden company into black-type company because they believed she was above average. The Waikato Guineas result vindicated that assessment, her work at home having lifted to a new level in the lead-up. Bred and raced by the Smithies family under their Monovale Holdings banner, Autumn Glory has now been sold outright to Yulong, though she will remain in her current stable through the Oaks. “It's a privilege to have international owners of their magnitude in the stable, and it's great to see them becoming involved in New Zealand in a bigger way,” James said. He views the partnership as a reflection of what New Zealand racing can offer in terms of stakes and high-class horses, but is keeping the immediate focus simple. “Our aim is the New Zealand Oaks and what happens after that will be discussed after the race, but it is a Group One and that is what we are focussed on.” The filly has thrived since Te Rapa. “We’re really happy with the way she's bounced through the Waikato Guineas. She's feeding well and looks great in the coat,” James said, satisfied she is peaking at the right time. Yulong’s growing presence in the country now includes Oaks favourite Ohope Wins and unbeaten Guineas winner Well Written, giving the operation a powerful hand among the elite three-year-old fillies. For Monovale, the sale aligns with a clear commercial model. “Yulong has purchased her outright, and she will stay with Roger and Robert for the Oaks, who have done a terrific job,” Joe Smithies said. “We've got to stick to our core business model, which is breeding horses for the yearling sales. Racing for us is probably a by-product of what we do, but having said that, we really do enjoy racing horses, particularly nice fillies like Autumn Glory.” The Smithies will still have a personal stake in the Oaks narrative through stakes-winning filly Acer (NZ), another Monovale graduate.
NEWNorthern Raider Enrico Grabs the Spoils
Weekend, 16th February 2026
A bold northern raid paid handsome dividends at Matamata on Saturday when the $350,000 Comag Wairere Falls (1500m) fell the way of Central Districts visitor Enrico, a gelding whose recent record suggested a breakthrough was imminent. After a string of high-quality performances without quite landing the spoils, he finally converted consistency into a feature-race cheque, reports loveracing.nz. Trained at Levin by Ilone Kelly, the galloper had been racing in rich vein. Three stakes placings from his previous four outings – in the Gr.3 Taranaki Cup (1800m), Gr.3 Phar Lap Trophy (1600m) and Listed Wanganui Cup (2040m) – underlined his competitiveness in strong company. Yet the market was not convinced, allowing him to drift to 23-1 for his Matamata assignment despite that solid résumé. The price did little to shake the belief of regular rider Madan Singh, who was determined to partner the gelding at 53.5kg. “I was definitely a little bit confident, but 53.5kg is a bit hard for me,” Singh said. “But I knew he was a good chance and she (Kelly) has always been a big supporter of mine, so that’s why I made 53 to ride this horse.” His commitment was evident from the outset. Away cleanly, Enrico was urged forward to hold a prominent position and briefly engaged in an early contest for the lead with Leroy Brown and Vegas Queen. Rather than press on at all costs, Singh eased into the trail to secure cover and a kinder run. That patience proved decisive as the field turned for home, with Leroy Brown slipping clear by two lengths and appearing to have pinched a winning break. Singh, however, remained composed. Keeping his mount balanced and within striking range, he asked for a final effort in the closing stages and Enrico responded strongly, lengthening stride by stride to reel in the leader and snatch victory by a head in the final bound. Relief and satisfaction were evident afterwards. “It was very good,” Singh said. “He is a nice horse who is always knocking on the door, and he always has wide draws. We got a nice enough draw (6) and got a nice run and when I asked he gave me a really good response.” Co-bred and part-owned by respected Horowhenua horsewoman Syliva Kay, Enrico now boasts seven wins and nine placings from 33 starts, with earnings beyond $420,000 – figures that now carry the weight of a deserved feature success.
The Sprinting Street Has a Formidable New Boss
Weekend, 16th February 2026
Under the pressure of a 1000m Group 1 first-up assignment against seasoned older sprinters, there was a moment when the task looked beyond him. At the 300m of the Black Caviar Lightning Stakes, Tentyris was still a length off the second-last runner and seemingly facing an impossible mountain to climb. What unfolded over the next few strides was as exhilarating as anything that has been witnessed down Flemington's straight in recent seasons. When Damian Lane finally called on him, the son of Street Boss produced a withering surge, rounding up all seven rivals in the final stages and charging past My Gladiola to score by half a length. It was a breathtaking last-to-first performance that confirmed his status as favourite and announced his return in emphatic fashion. The victory added another elite-level chapter to a résumé that already includes his brilliant Gr1 Coolmore Stud Stakes triumph as a 3YO, when he stamped himself as one of the most dynamic colts of his generation. Now tackling older horses for the first time, he showed that his talent has not only endured but deepened with maturity. Lane had not partnered Tentyris since their narrow Blue Diamond defeat to Devil Night, but with Mark Zahra sidelined and Craig Williams suspended, he was reunited with the colt and delivered a measured ride. He believes the difference lies in the horse's growth since those early days. "I think the development in his temperament, his attitude, is really good now," Lane said. "As an older horse, he's really competitive. He's shown he can go to the top level and he's going to be winning good races for a bit to come yet." Pre-race discussion centred on whether a Group 1 1000m dash first-up would leave him vulnerable. Lane was unequivocal. "The risk was that the 1000m was too short – it certainly wasn't." He elaborated further: "He's an incredible talent. We just only had the one play with him with how he steps out of the barriers, it was just a risk whether the 1000 (metres) was going to be too short. It certainly wasn't. Mid-race I had to ask him to pick up the bridle and when he did, he really joined in well and as had become his trademark, that last bit of his race was outstanding - incredible." With the Newmarket Handicap looming, the question is no longer whether the distance is too sharp but whether any other sprinter around can withstand that devastating finish no matter the distance. Saturday's demolition follows the Saturday before where Street Boss' Tempted and Closer to Free claimed a Group double at Caulfield.
Fownes Adds to HK Trainer Premiership Logjam
Weekend, 16th February 2026
A Sha Tin double on Saturday hauled one stable alongside Mark Newnham at the top of the Hong Kong trainers' premiership on 35 winners, with Caspar Fownes enjoying a milestone-laced afternoon. Both wins were delivered by Ellis Wong Chi-wang from off the pace, and neither came the easy way. The centrepiece was the Class 2 TVB Cup (1200m), where Sky Trust produced a determined finish despite a messy run. From midfield, Wong angled him toward the centre on the turn and began to build into the race, but a tightening gap sparked a concertina when Magic Control pushed forward, leaving Wunderbar, Gustosisimo and Sky Trust all taking sizeable bumps. Wong gathered his mount, found clear air, and asked him to lengthen. Sky Trust hit the front inside the final 300m and then had to fight again as Invincible Shield launched late, clinging on by a short head for his third win of the season. "He's been lovely for the stable. That's his third win this season, [Wong is] getting on well with him and he did a good job from the gate [nine] I thought – he dug him out and let them slide past him and came in behind in sixth position," Fownes said. "He got a bit of a bump coming into the straight from [Gustosisimo], but he knuckled down and won really well." With throat issues having required a second surgery in summer, the trainer indicated sprinting trips are now the right programme, noting that Dancing Code went close in a Group Three over 1200m. The double was completed when Sky Vino came from well back to land the Class 3 TVB Lo And Behold Handicap (1650m) on the Sha Tin dirt. Turning in with only two behind him, Wong had a huge amount of ground to make up, but a strong tempo ensured the front-runners were vulnerable late. Sky Vino swept past tiring leaders, surged alongside Dragon Air Force and edged clear to score by half a length as the $2.6 favourite. "I've always had a high opinion of the horse and actually he's come up a bit short for me this season," Fownes said. "The kid was very patient on him and he quickened up nice from the back of the field. He handles the Sha Tin grass as well as the Valley, so he's a versatile horse and hopefully he can go on with it now and build up a nice, progressive season for the Kwans." Sky Vino's success delivered Fownes his 1200th winner in Hong Kong and kept the premiership squeeze intact, with Newnham level on wins and Hayes only one adrift. "It feels great to know that we're in the top three or four of Hong Kong and I've still got a few years left in me hopefully, so we'll just keep building on that number," Fownes said.
Ceolwulf Double Nostril Bleed Inconclusive
Weekend, 16th February 2026
Uncertainty hangs over one of Sydney's headline acts as officials deliberate on whether Ceolwulf can continue through the autumn, reports punters.com.au. The Group 2 Apollo Stakes at Randwick was meant to be a launching pad toward loftier goals, but a post-race finding of blood in both nostrils has instead placed his campaign in doubt. Under Australian Racing Rules, such an occurrence typically triggers a mandatory three-month ban. However, further veterinary investigation has complicated the picture. Acting swiftly, trainer Joe Pride arranged for the gelding to be scoped by specialist veterinarians, with results indicating no evidence of a pulmonary haemorrhage and no blood detected in the lungs. Instead, the source was traced to the ethmoids, positioned high in the nasal cavity, an area that can produce visible bleeding without lung involvement. Pride's instinct that something did not align with a traditional bleeding episode prompted the additional testing. "I wanted him scoped because he pulled up really well and recovered the way you would expect him to recover," he said, noting the absence of coughing or distress that often accompanies lung-related issues. Racing NSW chief steward Steve Railton has since advised that a final ruling will be withheld until all veterinary material has been reviewed. The stakes are considerable. A two-time King Charles III Stakes winner, Ceolwulf remains one of the marquee performers in Sydney racing, with the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes a major target this preparation. Whether that path remains viable will hinge on the stewards' interpretation of the findings and the application of the rules. While Pride navigated that anxious wait, his stable found respite in the performance of Weeping Woman, whose upward trajectory continued in emphatic fashion. The mare registered a fourth consecutive victory in the $250,000 Gr3 Triscay Stakes (1200m), dictating terms from the outset under front-running specialist Tim Clark. Controlling the tempo from the front, Clark allowed her to travel comfortably before asking for a decisive effort in the straight. She responded willingly, pulling clear to score by 1.25-lengths from Manaal, with Verona Rose a half neck away in third. "She's a beautiful mare," Clark said. "I got a bit lucky getting on her with a light weight but you've got to take those opportunities when they come your way. She is obviously building a really good record and is just so easy to ride – she is real push button. She sprung the lids and was just able to control it – it hasn't been a bad place to be today."
The autumn might be over for Ceolwulf (pic: Steve Hart)
Slipper Dreams Warranted for Shailer Stable
Weekend, 16th February 2026
A Golden Slipper campaign is not yet locked in, but the conversation is quietly building momentum on the Gold Coast, according to racenet.com.au.Much will depend on what Toorak Jewel produces at her next appearance, with trainer Paul Shailer prepared to entertain bigger ambitions if the filly delivers another dominant display. The daughter of her blue-blooded sire Tassort made a striking impression when capturing the $500,000 Debut for unraced 2YOs on Magic Millions Day, and she has since pleased her stable in the weeks that followed. Freshened briefly, she stretched out in an exhibition gallop at Eagle Farm last Saturday, gliding through her work in a manner that only fuelled speculation about loftier targets. Her immediate return comes in the QTIS Jewel Prelude 2YO Fillies (1000m) at Eagle Farm on February 28, a stepping stone toward the 1200m QTIS Jewel on the Gold Coast two weeks later. Should she prove emphatic in the Prelude, Shailer admits the $5 million Golden Slipper at Rosehill on March 21 would have to enter serious calculations, despite a compressed timeline. "It's not off the table," Shailer revealed. "Unfortunately we're just landing on an awkward leg, starting her off the 28th which only gives us three weeks into the Slipper. The timing's not perfect but we knew that scenario when we gave her the time off and our main goal was the (Group 2) Percy Sykes." That Randwick event on April 11 remains the original blueprint, offering a more measured build-up, but the perceived absence of a standout juvenile this season has opened the door to alternative thinking. To secure a Slipper berth, Toorak Jewel would likely need to claim the Group 2 Magic Night Stakes (1200m) at Rosehill on March 14 and its $140,000 winner's purse. "Given the way that the Golden Slipper is shaping up at the moment, there's no sort of standout," Shailer said. "If she was to come here on the 28th and be dominant, we'd have to talk to [Mishani Enterprises owner] Mike and see what he'd have to say. Ultimately, it's his decision and we'll respect what he wants to do." Beyond fitness, last week's Eagle Farm gallop served as education. "I thought it was important to get her here, given that she hasn't been away from home before," Shailer said. "Eagle Farm can bring a few horses undone from time to time, particularly two-year-olds, but I think she'll derive great benefits from it. Not just mentally but physically too, it'll stimulate the blood and bring her on a bit." Ben Thompson, booked for the Prelude, described her as curious but professional, while Shailer noted that James McDonald had labelled her among the better juveniles he has ridden this season – a significant endorsement if her trajectory continues.
Autumn Glow Delivers Another Crushing Blow
Weekend, 16th February 2026
Sensational four-year-old mare Autumn Glow (The Autumn Sun-Via Africa, by Var) continues to redefine excellence on the Australian turf, maintaining her flawless record at Royal Randwick with an effortless victory in the Gr2 Apollo Stakes over 1400m. Under a characteristically confident ride from James McDonald, the Chris Waller-trained superstar delivered a performance of pure class, settling beautifully in the "one-one" position before surging clear at the top of the straight to win by a dominant 2.75 lengths. This latest triumph led an all-Waller trifecta ahead of Aeliana (Castelvecchio) and Lindermann (Lonhro) , further cementing her status as the premier weight-for-age contender in the country. Her journey through the ranks has been nothing short of meteoric, marked by an elite succession of feature wins including a plethora of Group and Listed races headlined by the Gr1 Epsom Stakes, but also including the $10 million Golden Eagle. Her dominance is underpinned by a truly blue-blooded pedigree that suggested greatness from the moment she was foaled; she is a daughter of the Arrowfield Stud champion stallion The Autumn Sun and the triple Group 1-winning South African sprinter Via Africa. This elite genetic combination makes her a three-quarter sister to the Golden Rose winner and current sire In The Congo. Such a high-quality page meant she was always destined to command attention in the sales ring. She was first sold as a weanling for $600,000 at the Magic Millions National Weanling Sale, before her value reached the stratosphere at the 2023 Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale. There, she topped the sale as a $1.8 million purchase by Arrowfield Pastoral and Hermitage Thoroughbreds. Now boasting career earnings nearing $7.5 million, the mare has more than justified that significant initial investment. With a perfect "picket fence" of nine straight wins, Autumn Glow has the thoroughbred turf at her hooves. Chris Waller has indicated that the Group 1 Verry Elleegant Stakes is the next logical step in a campaign that seems destined to culminate in a historic Cox Plate attempt later in the year. As she continues to dismiss high-quality fields with such nonchalance, Autumn Glow is no longer just a talented prospect; she has become a genuine phenomenon of the modern era, ensuring the "Glow" remains the brightest light in southern hemisphere racing.
NZB Announces Final Results for 2026's NYSS
Weekend, 16th February 2026
A century of history provided the backdrop for a week that rewrote the record books, as Karaka 2026 delivered the 100th edition of New Zealand's National Yearling Sale in emphatic style. Conducted under a refreshed and condensed format, the sale combined Book 1, Book 2 and the inaugural Karaka Summer Sale across five action-packed days from January 25–29, drawing sustained momentum from start to finish. Despite 79 fewer yearlings catalogued, turnover surged by almost $10 million on the previous year, with more than $96 million returned to vendors and breeders. Key metrics all trended upward: the combined average climbed 11 percent to $127,774, the median rose 6 percent to $85,000, and the clearance rate held firm at a robust 83 percent. Strength was evident at every tier of the market, underscoring both domestic confidence and international appetite. The high-water mark came on the second day of Book 1 when Lot 513, a colt by Sword of State out of Las Brisas, commanded $1.1 million. He was secured by Mr Sanxiong Gao in partnership with Ciaron Maher Bloodstock, purchased from Cambridge Stud, which fittingly closed the week by claiming its 34th Leading Vendor title. The result capped a vibrant Book 1 session that set the tone for what followed. Beyond the ring, the occasion carried a sense of celebration. Hotels were filled to capacity as buyers and industry participants returned to Karaka in record numbers. Australian investment proved especially influential, with spending up by almost $12 million overall, while trainers from Southland to Northland ensured strong domestic representation. International participation stretched across Hong Kong, China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Netherlands and South Africa, reinforcing Karaka's global reach. On the eve of the sale, the racetrack added its own theatre. Queensland horseman Liam Birchley struck again in the $1m TAB Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m), with Dream Roca (NZ) (El Roca) prevailing after being sourced for $75,000 from Westbury Stud's Book 2 draft. The following evening, Well Written (Written Tycoon), an $80,000 purchase by Stephen Marsh Racing and Dylan Johnson Bloodstock from Brighthill Farm's 2024 National Online Yearling Sale draft, powered clear in the $1.5m TAB Karaka Millions 3YO, providing a vivid reminder of the pathways from sale ring to raceday glory. Reflecting on the milestone edition, NZB Managing Director Andrew Seabrook said, "It was one of the best weeks at Karaka in a very long time, with both buyers and vendors very happy." He added, "To increase our turnover by 11% despite having a smaller number of horses offered is phenomenal, and an important boost for our industry. It was great to see the Australian spend was up significantly, particularly during Book 2 thanks to having those horses on the ground earlier for inspections. There were some great pinhook results especially through the Book 2 and the Summer Sale, which should give people confidence to enter the weanling market in just a few months' time. I'm really proud of how we acknowledged the milestone of the National Yearling Sale for the wider industry, it was very special to be a part of. Our thanks go out to the vendors, buyers, underbidders and the thousands in attendance who all combined to make the 100th National Yearling Sale one to remember."
Vinery Graduate Now Eyeing Gr1 Sistema Stakes
Weekend, 16th February 2026
Under clear skies at Matamata on Saturday, Te Akau Racing added another chapter to its affinity with the Gr2 Matamata Breeders' Stakes (1200m), notching a fifth consecutive victory in the juvenile feature as Lara Antipova maintained her unbeaten record. The daughter of Russian Revolution had already marked herself as above average with a debut success at Te Aroha in November, followed by a decisive win in the Gr2 Wakefield Challenge Stakes (1100m) at Trentham. Resuming from a brief let-up, she was installed a dominant $1.20 favourite and justified that support with a display of authority. From a wide gate and with several pace influences drawn inside her, Opie Bosson allowed the filly to find balance before pressing forward. By the 900m she had assumed control and travelled comfortably in front. Te Encuentro and Hawea edged closer approaching the home turn, briefly applying pressure, but when Bosson asked for a greater effort at the top of the straight, Lara Antipova responded immediately. She extended her margin with each stride, crossing the line 3.25-lengths clear of Te Encuentro, with Hawea a further three-quarters of a length away in third. "She is a very special filly," Bosson said. "She wasn't 100 percent in the ground and she had a bit of a stumble turning in but that actually made her pick the bit up a bit more and she got up underneath me, she is pure class. She was a little bit fresh and a little bit keen early in the running, but with that run under her belt she is only going to improve." The Matamata contest has proven a reliable springboard for previous stable winners including Maven Belle, Captured By Love and La Dorada, all of whom later succeeded at elite level. A similar path now beckons, with the Gr1 Sistema Stakes (1200m) at Ellerslie on Champions Day identified as her next objective. "She is a very good filly," Walker said. "The next port of call will be the Sistema and then all going well and she was still 100 percent, you would consider going over to Australia. We do think a lot of her. It is great for John and Jessica (Galvin) and the Fortuna team to have another nice one." Secured for $100,000 from Vinery Stud's draft at the 2025 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale by David Ellis in partnership with Fortuna Racing, the filly extends a fruitful association that has produced stars such as Melody Belle and Bellatrix Star. Now three wins from three starts and with earnings beyond $240,000, Lara Antipova continues to enhance a profile that already carries significant promise.
Ahead of Saturday, expectations were immense and, in truth, the US$20-million G1 Saudi Cup renewal never quite carried the same crackling suspense as the epic duel 12 months earlier. Yet beneath the Saturday night lights at King Abdulaziz Racecourse, Forever Young once again demonstrated why he sits at the summit of the global dirt division, digging deep to secure a place in history as the race's first repeat winner. According to a report by TDN, the 5YO son of former Arrowfield Stud shuttler Real Steel (Deep Impact) had been sent off a commanding $1.35 favourite, returning for the first time since his landmark victory in the G1 Breeders' Cup Classic at Del Mar on November 1, where he defeated Sierra Leone and became the first Japanese-trained winner of America's richest race. That triumph alone would have secured his legacy; this latest success merely reinforced it. Drawn in gate six for the 1800m contest, he broke without fuss and settled among runners as Thundersquall set the tempo, with Nysos positioned three off the inside under Flavien Prat. The pace was genuine, and for a brief moment down the back straight the favourite found himself in tight quarters when Banishing edged inward along the rail. But in the hands of Ryusei Sakai, patience prevailed. Approaching the home turn, an opportunity presented when Adel Alfouraidi left a gap on the fence. Sakai needed no second invitation. Forever Young surged through along the inside and, once balanced, displayed the decisive turn of foot that has become his calling card. He put roughly a length on Nysos by the 200m mark and from there was never seriously threatened, even as the 'TDN Rising Star' rallied with determination. For Forever Young, the victory not only extended his consistent feature sequence – 14 starts without missing the frame – but also secured automatic eligibility for the upcoming G1 Breeders' Cup Classic via the Challenge series. Whether connections elect to undertake another demanding journey to Central Kentucky remains to be seen, but on this evidence, his appetite for the biggest stages remains undiminished.
Tarvue Beginning to Live Up to Her Pedigree
Weekend, 16th February 2026
There are few tracks where she seems to find an extra gear, and Flemington is fast becoming one of them. Tarvue again showed her affinity for headquarters when producing a decisive performance in Saturday's $80,000 TAB We're On (2000m), a Benchmark 78 handicap that continues a productive campaign for the New Zealand-bred mare. The 5YO was making her fifth appearance at the course and has now recorded two wins there, having struck over 1800m on New Year's Day before finishing a close second across 2500m on January 17. A last-start sixth at Caulfield did little to dent confidence, with circumstances against her that afternoon, and she returned to the wide expanses of Flemington ready to rebound for trainer John Sadler. Ridden by apprentice Luke Cartwright, Tarvue settled in sixth along the rail behind a solid tempo. Midway down the side, Cartwright eased her into clear running and allowed her to build momentum around the field. Sweeping up to the leaders on straightening, she quickly asserted her authority, opening up a margin of a couple of lengths with more than 300m to travel. The late-finishing Fiorenot loomed as a threat, but Tarvue found again, holding that rival at bay to score by a length. "Very happy," Cartwright said. "I know what ability this horse has got. I sat on her at Flemington here and she won, and then her run for second over 2500m, that was another gallant effort. At Caulfield, I just made a mistake on her. I can't thank the ownership group and John Sadler enough for keeping me on the mare, because I know she goes really good. Today it worked out perfect, she had a nice draw, wasn't cluttered up and I was able to let her use her big stride from about the 700m. When she's able to use her big stride, she can let her really good turn of foot go. Sads has got a good staying mare on his hands." With confidence restored, Sadler is now looking toward black-type opportunities, nominating the Torney Cup (Listed, 2500m) at Pakenham on March 6 as the likely next step. Reflecting on the recent Caulfield run, he acknowledged the apprentice's candid assessment while expressing satisfaction with the turnaround. Bred by Rosemont Stud, Tarvue is by Tarzino, the Gr1 Victoria Derby and Rosehill Guineas winner whose progeny include Derby victors Jungle Magnate and Willydoit and Oaks heroine Gypsy Goddess. Her dam, the Admire Moon mare Vamoose, is a half-sister to Gr1 Caulfield Cup winner Admire Rakti. Purchased by Vue International Pty Ltd for $25,000 from Mapperley Stud's Karaka 2022 Book 1 draft, she has now compiled five wins and three seconds from 19 starts, banking $239,200 in stakes.
Age and distance suiting Tarvue (pic: Mark Gatt)
Return To Conquer to Stand at Waikato Stud
Weekend, 16th February 2026
Waikato Stud have announced unbeaten Group One winner Return To Conquer, a son of Champion Sire Snitzel, will join their star-studded roster this season. "We're very excited and proud to stand such a top-class racehorse with a beautiful pedigree and impeccable looks," said stud principal, Mark Chittick. "He will complement our broodmare band extremely well and to have Kia Ora remain in him adds to the excitement; the Australasian industry will get every opportunity to support him at this introductory fee of $15,000 plus GST, LFG. "To stand a horse bought by one of the best judges in the industry is a real privilege, and it's a testament to the Te Akau Racing team to have him retire with an unbeaten stakes record." Purchased from Blue Gum Farm's draft at the 2024 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale for A$1.3 million, the colt had many admirers, including Bruce Perry, but it was John O'Shea who pushed the bidding into seven figures, with David Ellis CNZM having the final winning bid. "From the moment I first inspected him at the Magic Millions' sale, he stood out. He was a magnificent individual – strong, athletic and beautifully balanced – with the pedigree to match," Ellis said. "He developed into an elite racehorse under Mark (Walker) and Sam's (Bergerson) guidance, retiring unbeaten in four starts. All four of his victories were at stakes level, including the Gr.1 Sistema Stakes (1200m). Records like that are seldom found. "Just as importantly, he has a beautiful temperament and a real presence about him. We buy these well-bred colts to compete and win at the highest level and Return To Conquer did exactly that. To see him retire unbeaten and now head to the renowned Waikato Stud is immensely satisfying – it gives him a tremendous platform, and it is a wonderful result for the New Zealand breeding industry." Return To Conquer won all three of his trials before making a winning debut in the Listed Counties Challenge Stakes (1100m). He continued his stakes sweep, with victories in the Gr.3 Colin Jillings 2YO Classic (1200m), Gr.3 Matamata Slipper (1200m) and Gr.1 Sistema Stake (1200m). With Mark and Garry at home in Matamata anchoring operations, Harry and George Chittick travelled to Te Akau Racing's Cranbourne base to give the colt the final tick of approval. "Ben Gleeson showed him to us and he was really impressive, he has a good brain on him, and he's such a dude," Harry Chittick said. "Speaking to Jamie and Chanel Beatson of Ohukia Lodge, he was the best they broke in that year. Everything about him is impressive – from his pedigree to his performance, temperament and physical presence." "He's a beautiful horse and very precocious," continued George Chittick. "One of the things I took away was, yes, there is plenty of Snitzel in there, but there is a touch of Lonhro, too. I'd be very pleased walking out to get him from the paddock each day and bringing him to the barn or showing him to clients. We're very excited and proud to be a part of the next stallion for WS." Return To Conquer is out of the unraced Lonhro mare Vaujany, a three-quarter sister to six-time Australian sprint winner Andermatt, and the colt's granddam, Portillo, won the Gr.2 Surround Stakes (1400m) and finished second in the Gr.1 Flight Stakes (1600m) as a three-year-old. "At the end of the day, he's a Group One-winning son of Snitzel and a good specimen. To get all those things together is not easy," explained Garry Chittick. "We have a very good spread of stallions, so he fits into our mix well."
Tentyris Wins Gr1 Black Caviar Lightning
Weekend, 16th February 2026
Track: Flemington
Race: Gr1 Black Caviar Lightning (1000m)
Winner: Tentyris (Street Boss–Deity, by Exceed And Excel)
Placings: 2nd: My Gladiola, 3rd: Benedetta
Stallion: Street Boss (Street Cry–Blushing Ogygian, by Ogygian)
Sales Details: $600,000 weanling, 2022 Magic Millions National Sale (Vendor Newhaven Park) and then a $1,800,000 yearling, 2023 Inglis Australian Easter Sale (Vendor: Silverdale Farm)
Savvy Hallie Wins Gr2 Light Fingers Stakes
Weekend, 16th February 2026
Track: Randwick
Race: Gr2 Light Fingers Stakes (1200m)
Winner: Savvy Hallie (Hellbent-Rose of Savannah, by Fastnet Rock)
Placings: 2nd: Apocalyptic, 3rd: Nepo Baby
Stallion: Hellbent (I Am Invincible-Volkaspray, by Volksraad)
