Daily News

Headlines Only Expanded News

NEW King Can Reign With Giga Kick in All Aged
Tuesday, 14th April 2026
A high-class assignment at Royal Randwick this Saturday presents both opportunity and challenge, with proven Group 1 performer Giga Kick seeking to add another major to an already decorated record, reports punters.com.au. The All Aged Stakes over 1400m shapes as a pivotal test, not only for the horse but for a rider enjoying a rich vein of form during the Autumn carnival. Giga Kick will line up chasing a second victory in the race, with Clayton Douglas confident the pieces are falling into place for a big performance. The partnership with Rachel King, which began only last week at Gosford when the pair combined successfully with debutant Dragon Scroll, is already showing promise. While King had been locked in for the ride prior to that meeting, Douglas admitted the timing of the win did no harm. “It didn't hurt the cause,” he said with a grin. The decision to hand King the reins was shaped by both circumstance and compatibility. “To be honest it was a pretty easy decision. Rachel has had a sit on him (Giga Kick) in a trial at Rosehill and she's obviously riding full of confidence at the moment,” Douglas said. With Zac Purton unavailable, the call was made swiftly. “When Zac (Purton) wasn't going to be coming back for an All Aged we decided Rachel was a perfect fit. They got on really well in the trial and he's a pretty easy horse to ride.” King’s current form only strengthens that confidence, highlighted by her Group 1 success aboard Green Spaces in the ATC Derby on the opening day of The Championships. However, the task ahead is far from straightforward. A deep field awaits, headed by defending champion Jimmysstar, with the returning Fangirl and a host of other quality runners including Angel Capital, Beiwacht and Briasa ensuring the contest will be run at a genuine tempo. Douglas believes conditions are aligning for his stable star, who arrives fourth-up and ready to peak. “Fourth up at the 1400 metres in a decent sized field with a bit of tempo looks ideal for him,” he said. Barrier position will play its part, but the trainer has taken encouragement from the horse’s recent efforts. “Zac (Purton) got off in the TJ saying if the barriers were reversed the result might have changed but he got beaten by a champion mare in Joliestar and he still ran great.” Having twice filled the runner-up spot behind elite opposition in the TJ Smith Stakes, there is a sense that a return to 1400m could prove decisive. Douglas pointed to the gelding’s previous success in the race under testing conditions, noting that a more favourable surface this time may suit even better. Longer-term options remain open, with Brisbane a possibility, but for now the focus is firmly on Saturday. A victory would push his earnings beyond $16 million and further cement his standing among the elite of Australian sprinting.

Powerful sprinter Giga Kick (pic: supplied)
NEW Early English Derby Market Tipped on Its Head
Tuesday, 14th April 2026
A shock result in a key Derby trial has thrown the Classic picture into flux, with Ballydoyle still emerging dominant despite a disappointing return from its hitherto headline act. Expectations had centred on Pierre Bonnard, but it was stablemate Christmas Day who seized the moment in the Group 3 Ballysax Stakes, edging out Endorsement while the well-fancied favourite laboured into seventh. According to racingpost.com, much had been anticipated from Pierre Bonnard following a flawless juvenile campaign that included three wins and a Group 1 triumph at Saint-Cloud, yet his seasonal debut failed to match the hype. Sent out a 7-2 market leader under Ryan Moore, he never found a rhythm and was ultimately beaten six lengths, leaving bookmakers reassessing his Derby credentials in the aftermath. Up front, the race unfolded at a steady tempo set by Endorsement, who attempted to dictate throughout under Ronan Whelan. However, the challenge from Christmas Day was building ominously on the turn, with Wayne Lordan easing into contention before asserting late to claim victory by half a length. The result handed Aidan O’Brien another success in a race he has made his own, reinforcing Ballydoyle’s depth even as its perceived number one faltered. Confidence within the camp remains unshaken regarding the winner’s upside. “The winner is a smart horse. He won a Group race around here with Jack [Cleary] and then we were going to a Group 1 with him next time in France and he got a temperature and didn’t get to go,” O’Brien said. He added that the colt possesses both stamina and tactical speed, noting: “Wayne said he'll stay further but he has pace and he quickened up. He’s by Camelot and a lovely horse. He’s very uncomplicated. He’s kind of floating along under the radar the whole time.” While Christmas Day surged into Derby contention, the focus inevitably remained on Pierre Bonnard’s underwhelming effort. O’Brien had flagged pre-race that improvement would be required, and he was quick to offer context post-race. “Ryan said he would have preferred to be handier and in a little bit more of a rhythm. He ended up where he ended up and he said he was in on the bad ground, but he was very happy with the horse. He said he had two blows, and we thought that that would happen.” The run is expected to bring him forward significantly, with the trainer maintaining firm belief in his ability to bounce back. “I think Ryan’s horse will leave the run well behind him; he’s going to get a mile and a half well. We’re still happy to have got the run into him,” O’Brien revealed, confirming that a return to Leopardstown for the Derby Trial Stakes is likely. Market reactions have reflected the uncertainty, with Christmas Day shortening dramatically into 12-1 for the Derby, while Pierre Bonnard’s odds have drifted as punters attempt to weigh raw talent against race fitness.
NEW Ka Ying Rising a Chance to Rock Mainland China
Tuesday, 14th April 2026
An ambitious plan is taking shape that could see the world’s most dominant sprinter cross into mainland China, with Hong Kong authorities exploring the possibility of showcasing Ka Ying Rising at Conghua later this year, reports scmp.com. The proposal centres on shifting the Group 2 Jockey Club Sprint (1200m), traditionally a key lead-up to December’s Hong Kong Sprint, to the mainland venue as part of its early development phase. With regular racing at Conghua set to begin on October 31, the move would provide an immediate statement of intent for the Guangzhou-based facility, elevating its profile through the presence of the sport’s current benchmark sprinter. At the heart of the concept lies the drawing power of Ka Ying Rising, whose remarkable sequence of 19 consecutive wins has established him as a global standout. Currently sitting atop the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings, his appearance would represent a landmark moment for racing in mainland China. “It would be big news on the mainland – the world’s best horse running there,” said Hong Kong Jockey Club chief executive Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, who confirmed the idea remains under active consideration. While the prospect is enticing, several logistical hurdles remain. “At the moment we are exploring what we can do to beef up this meeting and it is one consideration, which is currently in the exploration stage and would need approval from the international pattern committee and even quarantine arrangements for overseas horses, because we cannot exclude them,” Engelbrecht-Bresges explained. The process is far from immediate, with timelines suggesting at least two months of consultation before any definitive call can be made. “We would have to talk to our sponsor, so therefore there are a lot of things to consider. I think it would probably take two months to make a decision whether it’s feasible or not, but it definitely would be something interesting.” Behind the scenes, Ka Ying Rising already has a strong connection to Conghua through his preparation, with trainer David Hayes regularly utilising the training complex between race assignments. That familiarity has helped fuel confidence within the camp. “He trials well and he’s well-rehearsed in Conghua, so I haven’t got an issue with Conghua,” Hayes said, signalling his openness to the venture. There is also a broader strategic layer at play. Hayes acknowledged the financial dynamic surrounding the horse’s dominance in Hong Kong, noting that his presence on the mainland could offer a different commercial balance. “The thing that makes sense is there’s no betting [on the mainland] and every time he runs, the club loses a lot of money, so I think it’s not a bad thing.” From a sporting perspective, the opportunity carries equal weight. “It’s something that if the horse is healthy and well, I’d love to take up the challenge. It’s a big thing for China having him there. The whole world wants him and Conghua’s getting him.” Before any such plans materialise, Ka Ying Rising has more immediate targets, including a bid for a 20th straight win in the Chairman’s Sprint Prize later this month, followed by a potential defence of his Everest crown in October. Should the Conghua option be confirmed, it would reshape his late-season pathway, offering a new frontier for a horse already redefining excellence.

A huge new fan base could emerge for Ka Ying Rising
NEW Cox Plate Dreams Resurface for Sir Delius
Tuesday, 14th April 2026
A return to the sport’s premier Victorian weight-for-age test is firmly on the agenda for Sir Delius, with connections plotting another crack at the Cox Plate after last weekend’s breakthrough victory in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes. Forced to miss the race 12 months ago despite being a pre-post favourite, the Tulloch Lodge-trained entire is now being carefully managed with a spring campaign in mind, this year centred around Flemington which is hosting the Cox Plate during Moonee Valley’s revamp. The son of Frankel was sidelined from both the Cox Plate and Melbourne Cup last spring after Racing Victoria stewards intervened, ordering he be stood down when specialist scans revealed a heightened risk of injury. That interruption shaped a different path through the autumn, ultimately culminating in his defining Group 1 success, and the focus has quickly shifted back to unfinished business. “Yeah, I think well and truly (that’s the race he will be set for),” co-trainer Adrian Bott said. “The track there will be suitable for him. I think a high-pressure 2000m is right in his sweet spot.” The emphasis on conditions and tempo reflects a growing belief within the camp that his strengths are best suited to a genuinely run race at the distance. Before any interstate ambitions can be realised, there are procedural steps to satisfy. Racing.com understands the stable will be required to submit a veterinary report to Racing Victoria should they wish to take him to Melbourne during the spring, a measure stemming from the concerns that curtailed his previous campaign. While the Cox Plate sits front and centre, longer-range options remain under consideration. Bott has not entirely ruled out a Melbourne Cup tilt, though he indicated the horse may be prepared differently to sharpen him for races short of two miles. “We did wonder at various stages if we had made him too dour, going into the preparation?” he said. “The key will be to see whether we can have him a little bit more effective earlier in the prep at those sharper races and targets.” A more streamlined build-up could see Sir Delius take in traditional lead-up races at Flemington, with the Turnbull Stakes a logical stepping stone before the Cox Plate, and the Champions Stakes potentially rounding out his campaign. “And off the back of the Cox Plate, it may open up a few more options as to what we have a look at,” Bott added. With the wind in his sails now following his Queen Elizabeth triumph, Sir Delius appears set for a carefully calibrated spring, one aimed at maximising his effectiveness at the elite 2000m level while keeping future pathways open. The 2026 Cox Plate market is a talking point given what unfolded on Saturday. Autumn Glow, who ran third in the Queen Elizabeth, is the Cox Plate favourite at $3, with Sir Delius at $4, while Aeliana and Calandagan are on the next line at $5.
Bowman Takes The Mile Fork in the Road
Tuesday, 14th April 2026
It is said, tongue in cheek, when you come to a fork in the road, take it. Decisions at the top level are rarely straightforward, and few underline that reality more than the call made ahead of Hong Kong's Champions Mile, where loyalty, form and instinct all came into play. Hugh Bowman has opted to partner My Wish in the HK$24 million feature, leaving Hong Kong Derby winner Invincible Ibis to be ridden by James McDonald. The choice comes despite Bowman guiding Invincible Ibis to a commanding Derby victory only weeks ago, a performance that elevated the gelding into elite company. "It was a tough call. I had to choose one and I just thought My Wish might be a little bit more seasoned for this task at this point in time – that's the bottom line," Bowman said. The decision reflects not a lack of regard for Invincible Ibis, but rather a judgement on timing and experience. "Bearing in mind, Invincible Ibis only showed that he's up to that level three weeks ago. Prior to that, realistically you wouldn't have had him in the conversation." The Derby winner's transition from 2000m back to 1600m also factored into the thinking. "He's come and run a peak performance and he's going 2000m back to 1600m. I'm not trying to downplay him, I just had to make a call and my gut tells me that at this stage, My Wish is a better ride." Trainer Mark Newnham was more than satisfied with how the situation unfolded, particularly with McDonald stepping in. "They pretty much organised it among themselves. If you've got two of the world's best, you can't complain," he said, noting the strong professional relationship between the two riders. Invincible Ibis has risen quickly through the ranks, stringing together four consecutive wins before making his mark in the four-year-old series. After finishing sixth in the Classic Mile, he signalled his progression with a closing second in the Classic Cup before delivering a career-defining Derby victory. Now, the challenge shifts to older, more seasoned opposition. "What he's got to do now is do it against the older, more seasoned horses," Newnham said. My Wish, meanwhile, brings a different profile into the race. His narrow second in the Chairman's Trophy reinforced his credentials, particularly given the manner in which he finished off his race. Bowman was encouraged by what he saw. "I wasn't surprised by that. He didn't win, but the performance was good enough to be a winning one," he said. The gelding's racing style demands a measured approach. "He's only a small horse – you can't sort of bully him around the racecourse, he's just got to be left alone to deliver his best," Bowman said. With the right conditions, he believes the horse is poised to peak. "If he gets the right set up, he'll certainly be there in the finish." With major contenders engaged across the Champions Day program, the mile contest shapes as the most open of the Group 1 features, setting the stage for a race where judgement calls like Bowman's may prove decisive.

Bowman has gone with My Wish (pic: hkjc.com)
Sydney Cup Win Can Reverberate Through Brisbane
Tuesday, 14th April 2026
A long-awaited breakthrough has quickly given way to bigger ambitions, with dreams of a Queensland winter raid now taking shape after a stunning Sydney Cup triumph at Royal Randwick. Changingoftheguard’s victory as a $51 outsider was the kind that shifts narratives overnight, not just for the horse but for those connected to him. For Brisbane Racing Club chairman Richard Morrison, it marked the culmination of decades spent chasing a Group 1 winner, a moment that still carries a sense of disbelief. According to punters.com.au, that feeling was evident as he reflected on the race and its aftermath, having watched the drama unfold from the owners’ section before heading straight back to Queensland to celebrate. “I did actually tip it in the marquee so heaps of people backed it and filled their pockets,” Morrison said. “It was just a sweet day.” The performance itself was built on precision, with Jason Collett dictating terms through the middle stages before lifting the tempo at the right time, a ride that proved decisive in a race often defined by endurance rather than tactics. Attention has already turned to what might come next. Trainer Kris Lees indicated in the immediate aftermath that a trip north is under consideration, and Morrison is firmly in favour of the move. The Brisbane Cup over 3200m at Eagle Farm looms as a natural target, offering the seven-year-old another opportunity to showcase his staying credentials. “He does have a little bit of speed as well,” Morrison opined, suggesting the gelding’s versatility could open up further options. “He obviously races on pace, and maybe a race like the Q22 might not be out of his grasp. Kris has done a great job with the horse, he’ll pick the right path.” For Morrison, the appeal of a hometown victory adds another layer to the dream. “But I hope they bring him up here, I’d love to have a live chance to win one of our good races,” he said. “As a BRC member for most of my life, I haven’t won one of our features so that would be a real treat.” Any decision will ultimately rest with the Williams ownership group, but conditions are likely to play a role, with the gelding suited to firmer ground.
Not This Time for Champion US 3YO Filly
Tuesday, 14th April 2026
A measured ride and a decisive turn of foot combined to produce a breakthrough at Oaklawn Park, where a progressive mare stepped into elite company and left no doubt about her credentials. Claret Beret delivered a commanding performance in the Apple Blossom Handicap (G1), turning a tactical contest into a one-sided result as she surged clear in the straight to defeat champion mare Nitrogen. Settling just off the pace under Micah Husbands, she travelled strongly behind early leader Blue Fire, whose steady fractions set the race up for a mid-race move. As the field approached the far turn, she advanced with purpose, taking control before the straight and quickly putting the race beyond doubt. By the time her rivals were asked to respond, the margin had already opened, and she maintained a clear advantage to score by an emphatic 4.25-lengths, with Nitrogen closing late into second and Majestic Oops holding third. The victory marked her first success at the highest level and confirmed the promise she had shown in earlier runs, including a graded win in the Royal Delta Stakes. For Husbands, the moment carried particular significance. “I was loaded by the three-eighths (pole). I was just trying to be as patient (as possible) and not move too early,” he said. “When I asked her down the lane, she just finished it off. This has always been my dream, to ride in these kind of races and I’m just thankful to be living in the dream.” It was also a milestone in his own career, providing a maiden Grade 1 success after relocating from Canada to the United States late in 2024, his growing résumé already featuring multiple graded wins this year. Trainer Saffie Joseph Jr. was quick to acknowledge both horse and rider, saying, “Just really proud of her. I thought Micah gave her a really good ride, too, so I’m very proud of him, also.” For Nitrogen, the defeat marked a second consecutive setback following her Azeri Stakes run, though she performed with credit in chasing the winner home after settling within striking distance throughout but being unable to match the decisive acceleration when the race developed. Claret Beret’s victory also carries broader implications, earning her an automatic berth in the Breeders’ Cup Distaff as part of the “Win and You’re In” series, and as a daughter of Not This Time she adds to her sire’s growing list of elite performers, further enhancing his standing among North America’s leading stallions. Having now strung together consecutive wins and broken through at the highest level, she has firmly established herself among the leading mares of her division, with bigger targets now firmly in view.
Legend Lives Up to His Name in WA Derby
Tuesday, 14th April 2026
A sustained turn of foot and a touch of class proved decisive at Ascot, where a progressive stayer delivered one of the more authoritative performances seen in the WATC Derby in recent seasons, reports tbwa.net.au. Sentimental Legend controlled the contest from the moment it mattered, tracking the pace set by WA Oaks winner Wonderfully Made before asserting his superiority at the top of the straight. Once he ranged up alongside the leader, the result quickly became a formality, the gelding stretching clear to score by two lengths over Tahni Talk and Masmelo. The manner of victory suggested there is more to come, a view reinforced by jockey Willie Pike who now boasts an incredible dozen victories in the time-honoured Perth feature event. “I was happy the way it unfolded after Lucy went to the front on the filly,” he said. “He hit the front with a sustained burst and then pricked his ears and waited for them. We’re nowhere near the bottom of him.” Pike also pointed to the scope still ahead. “Wait till he’s 50 kilograms heavier in six or twelve months. I’ve always said you can get a good stayer to run a good race at a mile in a race like the Railway Stakes.” The win continued a strong run for the son of Brutal, who had already signalled his staying credentials with victory in the Melvista Stakes earlier in the month. Bred and raced by Grant and Alana Williams, he represents the final foal from Sentimental Star, adding another layer to a family that has consistently produced high-quality performers. That lineage includes stakes performers such as Star Exhibit, Perfect Jewel and Royal Star, all of whom carried the same cerise and white colours now associated with Sentimental Legend. The foundation mare was secured for $40,000 at the Magic Millions National Broodmare Sale, a modest investment that has yielded significant returns for the Williams operation. Further success has followed through her progeny, with Sentimental Belle and Sentimental Flame both proving capable performers in their own right, the latter achieving black-type in Adelaide. For Pike, the Derby success marked another formidable milestone, his 12th in the race, while Williams Racing notched its 10th, underlining a sustained dominance in Western Australia’s premier staying classic. On the evidence of Saturday’s performance, Sentimental Legend appears poised to extend that legacy.
Bona Sforza Could Tackle Queensland Carnival
Tuesday, 14th April 2026
Ambitions are quickly shifting beyond New Zealand shores after Bona Sforza’s latest stakes success, with an Australian raid now looming large following her victory in the Listed NZB Insurance Stakes (1600m) at Riccarton. According to racingnews.co.nz, the Written By filly’s return to Christchurch delivered a familiar result, repeating the pattern of success she first established when winning the Welcome Stakes at the same meeting 12 months earlier. That continuity extended to the saddle, with Ace Lawson-Carroll again partnering the filly. “I am so happy for him,” trainer Samantha Finnegan said. “When he won on her this day last year it was his first stakes winner and when I saw him back riding I was straight back on the phone.” While Riccarton has proven a happy hunting ground, the focus has already turned to what lies ahead, and in particular the prospect of stepping onto a bigger stage. Finnegan acknowledged that a trip to Australia is now firmly in play, with the Gr1 Australasian Oaks (2000m) at Morphettville emerging as the preferred target. “There is an option to go to Australia in two weeks… with her going so well you would probably have to have a go,” she said, suggesting the decision will be finalised in consultation with connections. The appeal is obvious, both in terms of prizemoney and the opportunity to test the filly at Group 1 level. Saturday’s performance strengthened that case. Despite some initial reservations about tackling a mile second-up, Bona Sforza handled the assignment with authority. “We were worried whether the mile was a run too soon, but she seemed to get it beautifully,” Finnegan said, adding that her ability to stretch beyond what her pedigree might suggest has been one of her defining traits. Her consistency at Riccarton has often been attributed to the firm footing on offer, conditions she appears to relish. “She just needs a firm track,” Finnegan said. “She has only had a firm track three times, when she has won and when she ran fourth in the Guineas.” That preference could prove equally advantageous in Australia, where similar surfaces are expected. The latest trip south was itself the product of a late change in plans, with deteriorating weather forcing a rethink from an intended northern engagement. “It was actually a bit like last year,” Finnegan said, recalling a similar disruption to earlier plans. A logistical scramble followed, with transport hurdles overcome thanks to the support of part-owner Cam Heron. Those challenges have done little to derail the filly’s upward trajectory. From just six starts, she has already secured two stakes victories and shown the versatility to compete at a higher level. For a stable with only a small team, the opportunity to take on a race of the Australasian Oaks’ stature carries significant weight. “We only have a small team… to have one good enough to be running in Group 1s and winning Listed races is amazing,” Finnegan said, reflecting on the journey so far. If the decision goes her way, Bona Sforza’s next step will see her cross the Tasman with momentum, confidence and a profile that suggests she is ready to test herself against Australia’s best staying fillies.
Classy Waller Autumn Glow Mea Culpa
Tuesday, 14th April 2026
Defeat can sharpen the narrative around a champion just as much as victory, and at Royal Randwick on Saturday it was the first blemish on a flawless record that may ultimately define the next phase of a rising star’s career. According to racenet.com.au, Autumn Glow arrived at the Queen Elizabeth Stakes unbeaten in 11 starts, carrying not just expectation but a sense of inevitability into the $5 million weight-for-age feature. The step to 2000m had been the lone query, yet connections elected to press forward rather than take a more conservative path, committing to the grand final target. For much of the race, she travelled like a horse capable of answering that question. But as the tempo lifted and the pressure built in the straight, the distance began to tell. Despite giving ground late, she was far from disgraced, finishing within 2.5-lengths of Sir Delius, a performance that underscored both her quality and her probable limits at the trip. In the aftermath, trainer Chris Waller was quick to assume responsibility, a gesture that spoke as much to his character as his assessment of the race. “I’m disappointed for the horse, as she gave everything in the race, but I simply got her distance range wrong,” he said. “I apologise to everyone for that – we’ll accept defeat graciously and come back better.” It was a candid reflection, acknowledging both the ambition of the campaign and the reality of the outcome. The decision to stretch her beyond a mile had been made in pursuit of greatness, but in this instance it exposed a boundary rather than extending it. Importantly, the mare emerged from the contest in good condition, allowing attention to quickly shift toward what lies ahead. “She has come through yesterday’s run well, which has been pleasing to see,” Waller said. “We will now look ahead to the spring, where Autumn Glow can shine again.” Plans will be mapped out in consultation with her ownership group, with a focus on maximising her strengths rather than testing her limits. There was also acknowledgement of the performance that ended her winning run. “Congratulations to Sir Delius and their team on a brilliant win as well,” Waller added, recognising the merit of the opposition on the day. If anything, the defeat may deepen her connection with the racing public. The aura of invincibility has been replaced by something more relatable, a champion who has been tested and found wanting only in circumstance, not in courage. Where she heads next will shape the next chapter, but one thing is clear: the loss has not diminished her standing. If anything, it has added a layer of intrigue to a story that is far from finished.
Major Quokka Purse Targeted by Vic Stables
Tuesday, 14th April 2026
A strong Victorian presence will shape the narrative at Ascot on Saturday, where three interstate stables chase the lion’s share of the $5 million on offer in The Quokka. At the head of that charge is Jigsaw, whose resurgence has been one of the season’s more compelling stories. The sprightly seven-year-old, who is by former Blue Gum Farm-based Redoute’s Choice half-brother Manhattan Rain, arrives in Western Australia chasing a seventh straight victory, having added top-level wins in the Sistema Railway at Ellerslie and the William Reid Stakes at Caulfield to his recent record. Representing Ladbrokes, he will again be partnered by Logan Bates for trainer Cindy Alderson, with his on-pace style expected to play a key role in how the race unfolds. Rey Magnerio also makes the journey west, returning to a track where he has already tasted success. The Robbie Griffiths-trained gelding claimed the Gold Rush at Ascot in December and reunites with William Pike, who guided him to that victory. His first-up effort behind Jigsaw in the William Reid was full of merit, beaten just over a length, and a subsequent trial suggests he has taken benefit from the run. Carrying the Sportsbet slot, he profiles as a runner capable of improving sharply second-up. Completing the Victorian trio is Spywire, who earned his place after a dominant front-running display in the Ballarat Discovery earlier this month. Now in the care of Ciaron Maher, the four-year-old will be ridden by John Allen, with regular rider Ethan Brown committed to rides in Sydney. Ram Racing has secured his services for the race and will also be represented by Caballus, adding further depth to their hand. A capacity field of 12 will contest the feature, with $2 million awaiting the winner and a place on an honour roll that already includes dual winner Overpass and last year’s victor Jokers Grin. The remainder of the line-up adds local intrigue and depth, with runners such as Luana Miss, Talkanco, Smooth Chino and West Star among those looking to defend home turf. Others, including Jedibeel, Rope Them In, Magnificent Andy, Oscar’s Fortune and Sisu Warrior, complete a field that blends established performers with emerging contenders, each bringing a different profile into a race that continues to grow in stature. With interstate form lines colliding against proven local credentials, the contest shapes as a tactical affair where tempo and positioning will prove decisive.

Jigsaw has won 6 in a row including two Gr1s (pic: Mark Gatt)
Soul of Spain Tip of Go Racing’s Cup Spear
Tuesday, 14th April 2026
A narrow defeat in one of Australia’s great staying tests has only sharpened aspirations within the Go Racing camp, with attention already turning to an even bigger prize later this year. Within a stride of claiming the Gr1 Sydney Cup (3200m) at Royal Randwick, the syndicator instead came away convinced Irish import Soul Of Spain has the profile to be a genuine Melbourne Cup (3200m) contender, reports NZ Racing Desk. Carrying the colours to within a quarter of a length of Changingoftheguard, the Chris Waller-trained stayer produced a performance that hinted a Group 1 breakthrough is close. “It was massive,” Go Racing general manager Matt Allnutt said. “The barrier draw (11) meant we got further back than we really wanted and the leader got some really cheap sectionals, but he sprinted well and a couple of strides past the line and he was in front. It was a super run, we were really proud of him.” The immediate plan is to freshen him before launching a spring campaign. “We got an update from Chris yesterday who said he is going to go out for a spell now and come back for a Caulfield and Melbourne Cup preparation, it is really exciting,” Allnutt said. That approach aligns with a profile already proven in the spring, where he won three straight races including the Gr3 Newcastle Cup (2300m) before placing in both the Metropolitan (2400m) and St Leger (2600m). “He goes well at that time of year,” Allnutt said. “He was unlucky in the Metropolitan, he is unlucky not to have won a Group 1. When you are at that level, you need everything to go your way to win those big races.” His staying credentials were also reinforced. “He won his maiden up in Ireland over 3300m, so we were confident he would get two miles on Saturday and the fact that he did gives us real confidence heading into the big races in the spring.” Soul Of Spain reflects a model central to Go Racing’s strategy, sourcing young European talent before relocating them to Australia. Purchased for €160,000 from the 2023 Arqana Breeze Up Sale in partnership with Blandford Bloodstock, he was initially trained by Joseph O’Brien before transferring south. While he shapes as a leading hope, he may not be alone. “Potentially we could have up to six horses nominated for the Melbourne Cup,” Allnutt revealed. “You dare to dream in this game.”
Progressive Blueblood on The Board
Tuesday, 14th April 2026
Expectation has followed her from the moment she first stepped into the spotlight, but at Otaki on Saturday a well-bred filly began to turn promise into performance with a victory that has earned her a shot at black-type company. Avantaggia justified the confidence of her connections with a determined win in the Porirua Club Punters Handicap (1200m), settling prominently before finishing strongly to secure a half-length success under Samantha Collett. According to loveracing.nz, it was a performance that reflected both her natural ability and the gradual physical development that has taken time to come together. Carrying the pedigree of Wootton Bassett and champion mare Avantage, she has long been marked as a filly of significance, a status reinforced when Te Akau Racing principal David Ellis secured her for $2.1 million at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale. Early signs of ability followed, including a maiden victory at Te Aroha at just her second start, before a solid placing at Matamata hinted that further progress was imminent. Trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson approached the Otaki assignment with quiet confidence, and the race unfolded as they had hoped. “It was a good effort by Avantaggia and certainly a good ride by Sam,” Walker said. “She was positive out of the gates to take a position in third on the fence and she was really strong through the line.” The emphasis has been on patience, allowing her to mature into her frame. “She has taken a while to build-up physically, but obviously she’s got a lovely pedigree and I think she’s only going to get better as a four and five-year-old.” The win also delivered an early return for her ownership group, with two victories from her first five starts. “It’s really good for the owners to have her win two of her first five starts,” Walker said. “They have been very patient and she’ll now get an opportunity at black type.” That opportunity is set to come in the Windsor Park Cambridge Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) at Te Rapa on ANZAC Day, where she will take the next step in her progression. Given her progession, Avantaggia’s rise now shapes as one of the more intriguing narratives within the stable. Elsewhere, the stable enjoyed a productive day at Riccarton, highlighted by a quinella in the Welcome Stakes through Enchantment and Never Too Much, while Insatiable added to the tally with a win in open company. “He’s just got to be held up for the last run and you could see how strongly he was travelling in behind them for Joe before he found a gap,” Walker said of the six-year-old’s effort. “He went back, rode for luck, and he’s got a short, sharp sprint when you hold him up like that and get some room late.”

Avantage (pictured) is the dam of Avantaggia (pic: Race Images Peter Rubery)

Amarina Farm

Arrowfield Stud

Bell River Thoroughbreds

Clear Mountain Fairview

Lime Country Thoroughbreds

2025 BTR Stud Stallions

BTP STUD STALLIONS

Sire
A Lot Established
Acrobat Established
Al Maher Established
Alabama Express Established
All American Established
All Too Hard Established
Alpine Eagle Established
Alpine Edge 3rd Season
Anamoe 1st crop 2YOs
Anders Established
Artie Schiller Established
Awesome Rock Established
Barbados Established
Barbaric Established
Best Of Bordeaux Established
Better Than Ready Established
Bivouac Established
Brave Smash Established
Brazen Beau Established
Bruckner 1st crop 2YOs
Bull Point Established
Bullbars Established
Cape Of Good Hope 1st crop 2YOs
Capitalist Established
Captivant Established
Castelvecchio Established
City Of Troy Established
Cliff's Edge Established
Cogburn 2nd Season
Cool Aza Beel Established
D'argento Established
Danerich Established
Dash For Cash Established
De Gaulle Established
Delaware Established
Denman Established
Dirty Work Established
Dissident Established
Don Corleone 3rd Season
Doubtland Established
Dubious Established
Dundeel Established
Ellsberg 1st crop 2YOs
Encryption Established
Exceedance Established
Exosphere Established
Extreme Choice Established
Farnan Established
Flying Artie Established
Foxwedge Established
Frankel My Dear Established
Gingerbread Man Established
Gold Standard Established
Graff Established
Grunt Established
Hallowed Crown Established
Harry Angel Established
Hawaii Five Oh 3rd Season
Headwater Established
Hellbent Established
Hitotsu 1st crop 2YOs
Home Affairs Established
I Am Immortal Established
I Am Invincible Established
Ilovethiscity Established
Invader Established
Jacquinot 1st crop 2YOs
Ka Ying Master 1st crop 2YOs
Kermadec Established
King Colorado 3rd Season
King's Legacy Established
Lofty Strike 3rd Season
Lord Of The Sky Established
Love Conquers All Established
Manhattan Rain Established
Maschino Established
Master Of Design Established
Maurice Established
Merchant Navy Established
Mo'unga 3rd Season
Murtajill Established
My Admiration Established
Needs Further Established
Nicconi Established
Nostradamus Established
Officiating 3rd Season
Ole Kirk Established
Pariah Established
Pierata Established
Pierro Established
Pinatubo Established
Playing God Established
Portland Sky Established
Power Established
Prague Established
Pride Of Dubai Established
Private Life Established
Puissance De Lune Established
Rebel Dane Established
Rich Enuff Established
Rommel Established
Rubick Established
Russian Camelot Established
Russian Revolution Established
Safeguard Established
Sandbar Established
Sessions Established
Shaft Established
Shalaa Established
Shamoline Warrior Established
Shamus Award Established
Shinzo Established
Shooting To Win Established
Sidestep Established
Sizzling Established
Skilled Established
Smart Missile Established
Snitzel Established
So Secret Established
So You Think Established
Soul Patch Established
Southport Tycoon 2nd Season
Spirit Of Boom Established
Squamosa Established
St Mark's Basilica Established
Star Turn Established
Star Witness Established
Street Boss Established
Super One Established
Supido Established
Swear Established
Sweet Ride 3rd Season
Switzerland Established
The Autumn Sun Established
The Brothers War Established
Time To Reign Established
Too Darn Hot Established
Toorak Toff Established
Top Echelon Established
Toronado Established
Trapeze Artist Established
Turffontein Established
Unite And Conquer Established
Universal Ruler Established
Vancouver Established
Vandeek Established
Victor Ludorum Established
Von Costa De Hero Established
Wandjina Established
Winning Rupert Established
Wooded Established
Wootton Bassett Established
Worthy Cause Established
Written By Established
Written Tycoon Established
Xtravagant Established
Your Song Established
Zousain Established
Zoustar Established

A Twitter List by BreedingRacing

Daily News

NEW King Can Reign With Giga Kick in All Aged

Powerful sprinter Giga Kick (pic: supplied)

NEW Early English Derby Market Tipped on Its Head

NEW Ka Ying Rising a Chance to Rock Mainland China

A huge new fan base could emerge for Ka Ying Rising

NEW Cox Plate Dreams Resurface for Sir Delius

Bowman Takes The Mile Fork in the Road

Bowman has gone with My Wish (pic: hkjc.com)

Sydney Cup Win Can Reverberate Through Brisbane

Not This Time for Champion US 3YO Filly

Legend Lives Up to His Name in WA Derby

Bona Sforza Could Tackle Queensland Carnival

Classy Waller Autumn Glow Mea Culpa

Major Quokka Purse Targeted by Vic Stables

Jigsaw has won 6 in a row including two Gr1s (pic: Mark Gatt)

Soul of Spain Tip of Go Racing’s Cup Spear

Progressive Blueblood on The Board

Avantage (pictured) is the dam of Avantaggia (pic: Race Images Peter Rubery)

2025 BTR Stud Stallions

BTP STUD STALLIONS