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Farnan chasing historic sprinting double
Written by
Paul Vettise
4 min read
Top colt Farnan (Not A Single Doubt) will be given the opportunity to create racing history with confirmation he will race in the slot held by part-owner Aquis in next month’s $15 million The Everest.
Farnan produced a commanding performance to claim last season’s G1 Golden Slipper S. at Randwick where on October 17 he will attempt to become the first winner of the 2-year-old feature to add The Everest to his record.
Last year’s winner Yes Yes Yes, now resident at Coolmore, was unplaced in the Golden Slipper before he added his name to the roll of honour alongside Redzel (Snitzel), successful in the first two editions of the race in 2017 and 2018.
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Farnan will represent Aquis, Phoenix Thoroughbreds and Kia Ora Stud, who bought into the colt last month with part of the arrangement giving the Hunter Valley operation future standing rights.
“He won the Slipper for us so he’ll always have a special place in our hearts,” Aquis Managing Director Shane McGrath said. “It’s thrilling to have him represent us in The Everest and I can’t wait to see what he can do.”
With plans now in place for the Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott-trained Farnan to take on the older horses in The Everest, his racing immediate program has been changed.
“He’ll sidestep the G1 Golden Rose S. and we’ll aim up for The Everest and hopefully he’ll be there when the whips are cracking,” McGrath said. “The 1200 metres at Randwick will be perfect for him.
“He’ll sidestep the G1 Golden Rose S. and we’ll aim up for The Everest and hopefully he’ll be there when the whips are cracking.” – Shane McGrath
“We know it will be a high-speed race, which he relishes and he’ll get the weight relief so it’s exciting for the colt and the connections and everyone else involved.
“The ownership group shares the confidence of Gai and Adrian that Farnan will prove himself one of the fastest 3-year-olds of this season and deserves his place in this year’s Everest field.”
Farnan as a yearling
Farnan was a $550,000 graduate of the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale, where he was offered by Vinery Stud on behalf of Phoenix, who remained in the ownership with Aquis to race the colt through his lucrative 2-year-old season.
He was a debut winner at Canberra before a following success in the R. Listed Magic Millions Wyong 2-Year-Old Classic. He returned from a break to land the G2 Silver Slipper S. and the G2 Todman S. before triumphantly ending his preparation in the Golden Slipper.
“It is a huge thrill for the stable that last year’s Slipper winner Farnan will be aimed toward the world’s richest race on turf. We are confident Farnan will do an outstanding job for his racing partners,” Bott said.
“It is a huge thrill for the stable that last year’s Slipper winner Farnan will be aimed toward the world’s richest race on turf.” – Adrian Bott
Farnan was a dominant favourite when he resumed in last Saturday’s G2 Run To The Rose S., but after haring off in front he petered out to finish fifth.
Water under the bridge
“He knew he had been around, but he’s come on well and there’s a lot of water to go under the bridge before we get to The Everest and we’ve put a line through that and have moved on,” McGrath said.
“We’re thrilled to have the support of Kia Ora and obviously Phoenix and proud to have him represent all of us.”
Jockey Hugh Bowman was this week suspended for 20 days for what stewards considered a misjudged ride in the Run To The Rose with his penalty to start after Saturday week's Golden Rose meeting and Bowman will return on Everest day on October 17.
Bowman has confirmed he will lodge an appeal against the ruling, but whatever the outcome, the hunt will be on for a new jockey for Farnan in The Everest as the colt will only carry 53kg.
“We’ll leave that to Gai and Adrian. They know the horse better than anyone and I’m sure every lightweight jockey in the country will be ringing for the ride,” McGrath said.
Huge offers not yet enough to prise Jennifer away
Written by
Paul Vettise
5 min read
Overseas buyers have been circling around last season’s top filly Jennifer Eccles (NZ) (Rip Van Winkle {Ire}), but so far their best efforts have been fended off.
Cover image courtesy of Race Images Palmerston North
Jennifer Eccles will open her 4-year-old season in Saturday’s G1 Tarzino Trophy at Hastings for the Challenge No.10 Syndicate, managed by Adrian Clark who revealed to TDN AusNZ that interest in the mare was sky high.
The Adrian Clark Bloodstock Consultancy Principal said so far all attempts to prise Jennifer Eccles away had been resisted, but admitted it was becoming harder to resist.
“I can tell you that we have rejected three massive and separate offers from offshore and we’re hanging in there. At some stage, she will have to be sold because that it is the structure of the syndicate.
“Whether that is at the end of her racing career or at a stage when the offer becomes so substantial that we just can’t turn it down remains to be seen. She will never always be owned by Challenge No.10.
“The syndicate agreement is such that she will be sold and it’s about picking the right moment and right now we don’t think it is. I have to say, I had one sleepless night off the back of the most recent offer, which was eye-watering money.”
“I have to say, I had one sleepless night off the back of the most recent offer, which was eye-watering money.” – Adrian Clark
Jennifer Eccles ended her last campaign with a facile victory in the G1 New Zealand Oaks off the back of equally effortless wins in the G2 Lowland S. and G2 David & Karyn Ellis Fillies’ Classic to ensure her crowned New Zealand Bloodstock Filly of the Year.
She has earned just shy of NZ$500,000 and a stunning return on the NZ$5000 Clark paid for her at NZB’s National Weanling Sale where she was offered by breeder Westend Partnership.
It was partly through disappointment at a previous sale at Karaka that Clark was in the market and settled on the filly out of four-time winner and stakes performer Platinum Elle (NZ) (Elnadim {USA}), who is from the family of former Hong Kong Horse of the Year Sacred Kingdom (Encosta De Lago).
Jennifer Eccles (NZ)
“I do buy weanlings and this one was caused by getting outbid at the yearling sales so often on horses that I wanted to buy,” the Cambridge-based agent said.
“That particular year, I decided to have a different strategy and go and buy two weanling fillies and farm them through for six months and then put them into a syndicate.
“It was a first for Challenge, but I have bought weanlings previously for myself and for clients. Interestingly enough, I did it again this year and bought a filly by Preferment, which I’ve done on exactly the same basis and will farm her through and launch her in December.”
“It was a first for Challenge, but I have bought weanlings previously for myself and for clients.” – Adrian Clark
Offered by Milan Park, she was secured for NZ$6000 and is a half-sister to stakes winner Sureasyouwereborn (NZ) (Lucky Unicorn) with their dam Grey Swallow (NZ) (Pentire {GB}), who was twice successful.
Challenge Syndications was established in 2012 and has purchased and raced the winners of 13 Group or Listed races, 15 winners and three placegetters from 19 representatives.
Star of the show
The Shaune Ritchie-trained Jennifer Eccles has been the star of the show and off the back of two trial outings, the last one resulting in victory over 1200 metres at Ruakaka, is ready to kick off her spring campaign.
“It’s been a while since the Oaks and I’ve been monitoring her preparation closely and went up for both of her trials and go to the track regularly,” Clark said.
“Shaune and I have a really good working relationship where we can talk our options through and look at any road blocks we’ve had along the way, like track conditions, and think outside the square a bit to give us the best possible opportunities.
“It’s fair to say people won’t see a massively different horse when she fronts up on Saturday. She’s never been a big, robust horse. She hasn’t developed in any way significantly, but I don’t think she really needs to.
“Since the second trial at Ruakaka she’s clicked into that, for want of a better word, aggressive mode. She’s ready to go, but she’s not at peak yet.”
Watch: Jennifer Eccles (NZ) trial
The future direction of Jennifer Eccles’ campaign will be determined after a return to Hastings for the G1 Windsor Park over a mile on October 3.
“We’ll get through the first two races and then we’ll decide if we go to Australia and, if invited, have a go at the G1 Cox Plate or a race like the G1 Mackinnon S. or perhaps the mile (G1 Empire Rose S.) that Melody Belle won last year,” Clark said.
“There’s numerous options and if she did really well in the first two legs of the Triple Crown series do we consider going to the third leg, the G1 Livamol Classic? We’ll make those decisions post the Windsor Park.”
Book 2 closes strongly at Keeneland
Written by
TDN America/Paul Vettise
13 min read
The second and final Book 2 session of the Keeneland September Yearling Sale included some lulls without big-money sellers, but finished strong with the day’s top two lots coming in the final 20 or so hips.
At A Glance
>> A total of US$34,507,000 (AU$47,179,415) in trade was done on Thursday from 182 yearlings sold. The average was US$176,959 (AU$241,884) and median was US$135,000 (AU$184,536).
>> Over the course of four days of selling so far, US$165,853,000 (AU$226,725,820) has changed hands on 622 transactions, including 33 post sale.
>> The cumulative average is US$266,645 (AU$364,509) and median is US$200,000 (AU$273,324).
>> Through four sessions of the September Sale, 45 yearlings by Into Mischief (USA) have sold for US$23,280,000 (AU$31,823,841) and an average of US$517,333 (AU$707,124).
>> An Into Mischief colt was the sole Book 2 youngster to reach seven figures, selling for US$1 million (AU$1.36 million) to phone-bidder Peter Leidel.
>> Donato Lanni, agent for SF/Starlight/Madaket, paid US$775,000 (AU$1.06 million) for a colt by Quality Road (USA) offered by Candy Meadows Sales.
>> A filly by Constitution (USA) sat atop the leader board for much of the day after selling online for US$725,000 (AU$990,552) to agents Alex Solis II and Jason Litt on behalf of the Roth family’s LNJ Foxwoods.
Stallion’s popularity continues
A colt by the in-demand Into Mischief, Hip 1203, was the lone Book 2 offering to reach the seven-figure threshold, selling for US$1 million (AU$1.36 million) to Peter Leidel, who did his bidding on the phone.
The son of Grade 2 winner Teen Pauline (USA) (Tapit {USA}) was consigned by Warrendale Sales, agent for Barbara Banke’s Stonestreet Bred & Raised. Stonestreet was also responsible for Book 1’s US$2 million (AU$2.73 million) Tapit (USA) sale-topper.
“It was a very exciting finish to have three individuals bidding all the way to the million-dollar mark,” Keeneland’s Director of Sales Operations Geoffrey Russell said.
“There was a lot of depth to the market, I thought, today. Again, the comment we’ve made before is that it is very selective. The ones that they align on are bringing great money; the ones that just miss the mark are having a hard time to get sold. It is a very selective market.”
Hip 1203 - Into Mischief (USA) x Teen Pauline (USA) (colt)
A total of US$34,507,000 (AU$47,179,415) in trade was done on Thursday from 182 yearlings sold. The average was US$176,959 (AU$241,884) and median was US$135,000 (AU$184,536).
Over the course of four days of selling so far, US$165,853,000 (AU$226,725,820) has changed hands on 622 transactions, including 33 post sale. The cumulative average is US$266,645 (AU$364,509) and median is US$200,000 (AU$273,324).
The session reserve not attained rate was 40.1 per cent and overall buy-back rate sits at 38.35 per cent. While year-to-year comparisons remain somewhat difficult due to a difference in format compared to last year (three Book 1 sessions in 2019), the reserve not attained rate remains significantly elevated compared to 2019, when 28.18 per cent of horses were bought back by the end of Book 2.
“A couple of people told me they were happy to take their horses home, they had a Plan B when they came here,” Russell said. “They knew the market was going to be a little off, and they had already planned on Plan B. They brought horses to market hoping to be sold, but if they didn’t, they had other plans in their mind.”
“A couple of people told me they were happy to take their horses home, they had a Plan B when they came here." - Geoffrey Russell
Consignor John Mulholland noted, like many, the particular selectivity of the market: “Chickens or feathers; feast or famine. Everybody’s landing on the same horse, and you’re going to get paid a ton on those.
“If you bring 10 horses, three or four are going to have to carry the load for the rest. That’s the unfortunate state of the market right now. I can think of horses years ago that we brought up here that had one issue after another – whether it be on the x-rays, on the vetting, or some sort of conformational fault; but we’d still get them sold for something decent."
Russell ended his Thursday evening press briefing with a remembrance of long-time Keeneland auctioneer Cris Caldwell, who lost his battle with pancreatic cancer in May.
“This is the first sale we’ve had without Cris Caldwell and the amount of consignors and buyers who have come by and commented about it and acknowledged it,” he said.
“One guy said to me that he was a great ‘bouncer’ – he’d go and bounce ideas off of him and get a value. A lot of people have come up and said that they miss him and wish he was here. It’s quite humbling.”
Leidel strikes late
Peter Leidel, bidding over the phone, made the highest bid of the two-day Book 2 section of the September sale when going to US$1 million (AU$1.36 million) to secure a son of Into Mischief.
The bay colt, the fifth yearling by the Spendthrift stallion to sell for seven figures this week, is out of stakes winner Teen Pauline (USA) (Tapit {USA}).
“He is a lovely horse, ticked all the boxes as they say,” Warrendale’s Hunter Simms said. “He has a great walk. The Into Mischiefs have been on fire at this sale and on the racetrack. The mare was a new track record holder. Stonestreet did a nice job prepping him and he showed himself well at the barn. He is a classy animal.”
Thursday’s session opened with a Stonestreet-bred colt by Into Mischief, consigned by Taylor Made Sales Agency, selling for US$675,000 (AU$923,739) to Shadwell Estate Company Ltd.
“Stonestreet has been very supportive of us over the years and we greatly appreciate it. We have had good success for them,” Simms said.
Into Mischief (USA) | Standing at Spendthrift America
Through four sessions of the September sale, 45 yearlings by Into Mischief have sold for US$23,280,000 (AU$31,823,841) and an average of US$517,333 (AU$707,124).
Stonestreet purchased Effectual (USA) (Carson City {USA}), with Teen Pauline in utero, for US$475,000 (AU$649,234) at the 2009 Keeneland November sale. Racing in the Stonestreet colours, the dark bay won the 2014 G2 Top Flight H. and was third in the 2012 GI Spinaway S. She is the dam of 3-year-old Cambria (USA) (Speightstown {USA}), who beat the boys in the Listed Kentucky Downs Juvenile Turf Sprint in 2019.
In partnership with Stonestreet, Leidel campaigned 2017 G1 King’s Stand S. and G1 Darley Prix Morny winner Lady Aurelia (USA) (Scat Daddy {USA}). Banke purchased the filly for US$7.5 million (AU$10,249,171) at the 2018 Fasig-Tipton November sale to dissolve the partnership.
Avengers step in
The stallion-making partnership of SF Racing, Starlight, Madaket, et al, more commonly referred to as “The Avengers” these days after their trainer Bob Baffert coined the nickname, woke up a somewhat sleepy sales pavilion late in the session to add another 2022 Classic prospect to their formidable roster.
The Quality Road (USA) colt was bred and consigned by Everett Dobson’s Candy Meadows as Hip 1197. He cost US$775,000 (AU$1.06 million).
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“He’s a Quality Road, great stallion,” said SF’s Tom Ryan. “We’re just starting to see the cream rising to the top now with him. Just think of what he’s accomplished already; the future’s so bright for him.
“A good horse comes in there, and there’s plenty of competition. We really felt like we were going to have to reach for this horse, but Bob, Donato, everybody loved him.
“It’s been a busy sale for us. Keeneland assembled a great group of horses here, and good horses are hard to buy.”
Dobson purchased Hip 1197’s dam Sustainable (USA) (Forestry {USA}) for US$200,000 (AU$273,279) at the 2012 Fasig-Tipton July sale, and raced her under his Cheyenne Stables banner to a couple of stakes placings and nearly US$260,000 (AU$355,306) in earnings. Her 2017 Pioneerof The Nile (USA) colt sold for US$400,000 (AU$546,667) here two terms ago and has been working in California towards a debut.
Constitution filly sells for a ‘fortune‘
A filly by Constitution (USA) out of Candy Fortune (USA) (Candy Ride {Arg}) sat atop the leader board for much of the day after selling online for US$725,000 (AU$990,552) to agents Alex Solis II and Jason Litt on behalf of the Roth family’s LNJ Foxwoods.
The half-sister to last year’s GI Woody Stephens S. winner Hog Creek Hustle (USA) (Overanalyze {USA}) was consigned to the sale by Kitty Taylor’s Warrendale Sales on behalf of Sandra Sexton and Steven and Brandi Nicholson’s Silver Fern Farm as Hip 904.
Hip 904 - Constitution (USA) x Candy Fortune (USA) (filly)
“She was just beautiful,” Taylor said. “She was vetted a tremendous amount. I sold her for some long-standing clients of mine who are very dear friends, Sandra Sexton and Silver Fern Farm. She was vetted so much and handled it so well. She went to a great place with LNJ Foxwoods.”
Candy Fortune (USA) lost her Flatter (USA) foal this year and was bred back to Frosted (USA).
Hip 904, meanwhile, is the highest-priced yearling to sell so far this season by leading sophomore Tiz The Law’s (USA) red-hot sire Constitution – Solis/Litt also bought his second-most-expensive seller, a US$375,000 (AU$512,337) colt at last week’s Fasig-Tipton Selected Yearlings Showcase.
Shadwell back for more Mischief
Shadwell Estate Company’s Rick Nichols, who was forced to US$700,000 (AU$956,481) to acquire a colt by Into Mischief on Wednesday, was able to get another son of the leading sire for US$675,000 (AU$922,123) early during Thursday’s session.
“I thought we might have to go a little bit more than that,” Nichols admitted after signing the ticket on Hip 880.
Consigned by Taylor Made Sales Agency as agent for his breeder Stonestreet Thoroughbred Holdings, the yearling (Hip 880) is out of Bella Jolie (USA) (Broken Vow {USA}) and is a half-brother to sprint champion Runhappy (USA) (Super Saver {USA}).
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“He’s a very nice colt,” Nichols said. “He’s a half-brother to a good sprinter with good conformation and he looks like he has a really good head on his shoulders. Nice horse.”
Sheikh Hamdan’s Shadwell operation finished third in the GI Runhappy Hopeful S. with Mutasaabeq (USA), a son of Into Mischief, and Nichols said it was no surprise the stallion’s yearlings have been in demand at the September sales.
“He’s the leading sire in the country,” Nichols said. “We have a really good 2-year-old by him. We really like him.”
Nichols came back a few hips later to acquire a colt by Curlin (USA) (Hip 911), again consigned by Taylor Made on behalf of Stonestreet for US$500,000 (AU$682,770).
Another Moon for the Lows
Robert and Lawana Low, who had graded success with Magnum Moon (USA), added another son of Malibu Moon (USA) to their racing operation when bloodstock agent Jacob West made a final bid of US$610,000 (AU$833,070) for Hip 977 in the back show barn.
Bred and consigned by Larry Doyle’s KatieRich Farms, the yearling is out of multiple Graded-placed Fantasy Of Flight (USA) (Tiznow {USA}).
“He was kind of representative of what they look for,” West said of the yearling. “He looks like a big two-turn horse out of a mare who could run by a stallion they love. He vetted clean and was a beautiful specimen.”
"He vetted clean and was a beautiful specimen.”
- Jacob West
West said demand for the top offerings remained strong as the September sale’s Book 2 concluded Thursday.
“It’s been strong for the right ones, but we’re inching towards that spot in the sale where I think you are going to see a dramatic drop off,” West said.
“I think it’s slowed down just a little bit and I think we are inching towards that – I don’t know when it’s coming. I hope not for a long time for the breeders’ sakes, but I think it’s coming.”
Cayala rewards Kingswood again
Roderick Wachman’s Kingswood Farm and David Egan enjoyed their second consecutive year with high-dollar sale of a son of Into Mischief out of Cayala (USA) (Cherokee Run {USA}) at Keeneland September.
Last year’s colt brought US$550,000 (AU$750,800), and this year’s (Hip 912) one-upped his brother at US$600,000 (AU$819,295), selling to GI Kentucky Derby winner Authentic (USA) (Into Mischief {USA}) co-owners Spendthrift Farm and MyRacehorse.com.
“It was a fantastic price; the reserve was way before that,” Wachman said. “He was a nice horse, so happy days. I hope they are very lucky with him. The mare and the stallion have been very good to me.
“As you would expect, a lot of people have not travelled so, while we have lots of agents, the principals are not here,” Wachman said of the market. “When principals are not here, agents are a little more risk-averse because the person isn’t giving them a push.”
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New mark for Lord Nelson
Spendthrift Farm freshman Lord Nelson (USA) (Pulpit {USA}) achieved his highest auction price to date when a half-brother to 2018 G2 Remsen S. hero Maximus Mischief (USA) (Into Mischief {USA}), now a Spendthrift resident himself, brought US$460,000 (AU$628,114) from Frank Fletcher Racing and Ten Strike Racing. The strapping April 3 foal was consigned to the sale as Hip 1136 by his breeders, Mulholland Springs.
“I really felt like he was something fantastic,” John Mulholland said. “Like with most nice horses, you know they’re nice as soon as they’re foaled. He reminded me a lot of Maximus Mischief, and that’s because the mare throws a lot of herself into her foals.
“This one reminded me a lot of Max himself, and obviously it was a huge for the pedigree with him winning the graded stake and all of that. Hip 1136 is exactly what you’re hoping for when you raise something. He’s beautiful, he’s strong and a lot of body to him. He’s everything you hope for as a breeder.”
Lord Nelson, knocked out of the 2016 GI Breeders’ Cup Sprint in which he would have been a heavy favourite due to a leg infection, then had to overcome a battle with laminitis that forced him to miss the entire 2017 breeding season.
While he may have lost a bit of momentum before covering his first mares last term, Mulholland is bullish on Lord Nelson’s future.
“I have supported him; I’ve liked him from day one,” he said. “Obviously, it was a tough start with him getting hurt and then his feet and all, but I’ve bred to him and I’m very hopeful. We need another son of Pulpit, and he’s a beautiful horse. I’ve liked everything he’s thrown for us, so I hope he makes it.”
Mitchell to take up Advisory Board role at Segenhoe
2 min read
Written by Georgie Dennis
Bill Mitchell will step down as Racing Manager for Segenhoe Stud but will join its recently established Advisory Board.
A statement released from Segenhoe read: “Bill has previously been Segenhoe’s Racing Manager, a position he has held with distinction since the Maloney family acquired Segenhoe Stud in 2011. With Bill’s involvement, Segenhoe has grown into a successful breeding operation and has achieved a strong record of success on the racetrack.”
Throughout Mitchell’s management period, the Segenhoe colours have graced the winner’s circle with horses like Voodoo Lad (I Am Invincible), Sister Madly (Redoute’s Choice) and Winter Bride (Not A Single Doubt).
From a breeding perspective, Mitchell has been involved in the purchases of outstanding Segenhoe mares Girl Hussler (Hussonet {USA}) dam of Group 1-winner Manuel (Commands) and Group-winner Taking Aim (Choisir) and Breakfast In Bed (Hussonet {USA}) dam of $1.4 million yearling and dual Group1-winning colt King’s Legacy (Redoute’s Choice).
Group-producers Custard (Lonhro), Hurtle Myrtle (Dane Shadow), and Captivating Claire (O’Reilly {NZ}) are other Mitchell-acquired mares in the outstanding broodmare Segenhoe band.
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A former multiple Group 1-winning trainer, Mitchell said he enjoyed his time at Segenhoe and wished the Maloneys all the best for the future.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as racing manager for Segenhoe and look forward to our association in the future as part of the advisory board,” Mitchell said.
“It has been a tenure where we have been afforded a lot of racetrack success, with many of those mares now forming the foundation of the Segenhoe broodmare band that is well-placed to continue the run off sale and track results.”
Mitchell and his son James currently run the successful bloodstock agency Mitchell Bloodstock, with the duo active at the recent Magic Millions National Broodmare Sale purchasing 12 mares.
“Mitchell Bloodstock has developed significantly since its inception two years ago and we look forward to focusing on continuing this growth going forward," Mitchell said.
Lees has eyes for Epsom after special Cup win
4 min read
Written by Paul Vettise
Kris Lees is pondering a change of tack with his well-performed stayer Mugatoo (Ire) (Henrythenavigator {USA}) after an emotion-charged victory in the G3 Newcastle Cup.
The local trainer has recorded several placings in his home track feature before his talented 6-year-old charged to victory in the Sharp Electronics-sponsored feature in the Australian Bloodstock colours.
“It’s not a time-honoured event for others, but it’s our home-town Cup and it means a lot to a lot of people, our staff and Australian Bloodstock so I am very relieved and grateful,” Lees said.
"It’s our home-town Cup and it means a lot to a lot of people, our staff and Australian Bloodstock so I am very relieved and grateful." - Kris Lees
While Mugatoo has won up to 2900 metres, Kris Lees is considering a crack at a much shorter 1600 metres Group 1 assignment for the import in the immediate future, depending on the weight he will be asked to carry.
“I’d suggest he is probably Epsom-bound, we’ll just see. If he gets a penalty we might have to look elsewhere though,” he said.
Mugatoo, who had won both of his previous starts at Rosehill, was given a cosy run by Kerrin McEvoy in sixth spot and one off the fence to the turn and he came with a well-timed run to breeze beyond the pacemaker Hush Writer (Jpn) (Rulership {Jpn}).
The winner’s stablemate Attention Run (Ger) (Hurricane Run {Ire}) was third ahead of Paths Of Glory (GB) (Mastercraftsman {Ire}).
“I was getting a little worried on straightening when he wanted to lay in a touch, but he’s a really good horse and he’s got a bright future,” Lees said. “It’s very rewarding, a great feeling.”
Tops in Tibbie
All Saint’s Eve (NZ) (Sacred Falls {NZ}) took a major step toward a long-term Group 1 goal when she added the G3 Yarraman Park Tibbie S. to her burgeoning record.
Her fourth win from just eight appearances from John O’Shea’s yard, the 4-year-old raced in behind the speed on the rails and rider James McDonald was able to come across heels to see daylight 200 metres from home.
All Saint’s Eve responded positively when asked to sprint and she quickly asserted her superiority to account for Yamazaki (Real Saga) and Wandabaa (Wandjina).
“We were keen to get her up in the ratings this season so we could get a nice weight for the G1 Coolmore Stud Classic in the autumn. We’ll see where the handicapper sees her after this and maybe give her one more before a break,” O’Shea said.
“She’s a delight to train and an honour to train for Waikato Stud and Rosemont Stud and always special when James rides them. She got held up a bit at the top of the rise, but she dashed when she got through.
“She’s been going so very well this preparation and the team at home have done a wonderful job with her and put a lot of time into her to get her ticking over, it’s a lovely reward.”
Rock Epsom-bound again
Rock (Pierro) produced a stirring performance to successfully defend his G3 Australian Bloodstock Cameron H. title to confirm plans for another tilt at a Group 1 feature.
As he did 12 months ago, Rock came from the back of the field with long strides to win going away by 3.75l with sights now set on the G1 Epsom H. in which he finished fifth behind Kolding (NZ) (Ocean Park {NZ}) last year.
The Team Hawkes-trained Rock was making the second appearance of his spring campaign at Newcastle off the back of a fifth placing in the G2 Tramway S.
“His first-up run was really good and round the home turn everyone knows it gets a bit wet on the fence and his wheels were spinning a bit and he hit the line well over the last 100 metres,” Michael Hawkes said.
“He just seems to love it here and needs dry tracks. It was a perfect ride from Tommy (Berry) today and he gave him the perfect run.”
Rock settled in the last couple and when Berry had him in clear air at the top of the straight the gelding hit top gear and mowed his opposition down.
Just Thinkin’ (So You Think {NZ}) looked to be under pressure before the turn, but he got going along the fence to grab second from Chief Ironside (GB) (Lawman {Fr}) and The Candy Man (Casino Prince) who hit the line well for fourth.
Black type preview: Caulfield & Hawke’s Bay
6 min read
Behemoth big chance again
Caulfield, G1 Neds Sir Rupert Clarke, $500,000, 1400m
Behemoth (All Too Hard) is in outstanding form and wasn’t overly tested to win the G1 Memsie S. over this course and distance. He has again drawn an ideal gate to get a perfect run and will take some holding out.
Tagaloa (Lord Kanaloa {Jpn}) is a gifted colt and was a sound third when resuming in the G3 McNeil S. He will undoubtedly strip fitter for that outing primed to give the older horses a serious run for their money.
Age Of Chivalry (NZ) (Mr Remarkable {NZ}) was third on the course in last season’s G1 Toorak H. and his two lead-up runs have been full of merit while, if she copes with a quick back-up, Pretty Brazen (Brazen Beau) can’t be discounted.
Streets Of Avalon (Magnus) will have to improve and a wide gate won’t help him and Cascadian (GB) (New Approach {Ire}) made ground strongly for fourth in the Memsie and is overdue to take a winning trick.
Defending champion Begood Toya Mother (Myboycharlie {Ire}) will need to show some improvement on his latest run to lift the crown again.
A better chance may be the talented Superstorm (Sebring), who has a handy second-up record. If he’s close to the form that saw him finish second in both the G1 Australian Guineas and All-Star Mile he will be a major threat.
Winning order
Caulfield, G3 Catanach’s Jewellers MRC Foundation Cup, $160,000, 2000m
Orderofthegarter (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) has the benefit of couple of outings to have him at peak here. He has been runner-up in both outings and a slight drop in weight is also to his advantage.
Mahamedeis (Magnus) was a respectable sixth in the G2 Feehan S. over a mile and this trip will be much more to his liking and In Good Health (Congrats {USA}) won the Listed Heatherlie H. in good style and will be a threat again.
Gamekeeper (Fastnet Rock) was third in that race and presents as a player while Doctor Drill (GB) (Dansili {GB}) was fifth when resuming so he’s open to improvement.
Dabiyr (Ire) (Redoute’s Choice) will be all the better for a couple of runs and has placed in each of them. He was third at The Valley and will drop 3.5kg on that performance.
Stay with Lyre
Caulfield, G3 Neds How Now S., $160,000 1200m
Lyre (Lonhro) hasn’t won for a while and she’s presented with a gilt-edged opportunity to put that right. She was narrowly beaten in the G3 Heath when resuming and can go one better.
Fiesta (white cap)
Spanish Whisper (Lope De Vega {Ire}) is worth consideration as she is effective as is Fiesta (I Am Invincible) while She’s A Thief (NZ) (Showcasing {GB}) is race fit and if she gets an easy run in front will take some pegging back.
Humma Humma (Denman) was a close sixth in The Heath and will be fitter for the run and Felicia (Unencumbered) boasts a strong form line. She was second in the Listed Bendigo Bank S. to Showmanship (NZ) (Showcasing {GB}) and third was the Group 1 performer Age Of Chivalry (NZ) (He’s Remarkable {NZ}).
In agreement with filly
Caulfield, Listed Aquis Jim Moloney S. for Pinchapoo S., $140,000, 1400m
Agreeable (Sebring) has impressed in all three of her starts, winning on debut and followed up with fourth placings in good company. The step up to 1400 metres will be ideal for her.
Café Rizu (Rubick) has been freshened since she won over 1800 metres last time out and will run this out strongly while stablemate Odeum (Written Tycoon) was fifth in the Listed Atlantic Jewel and Michael Walker staying with her is an encouraging sign.
Mozzie Monster (Sebring) is moving up in grade, but is unbeaten and looks ready for the challenge as does last-start winner Malicorne (Akeed Mofeed {GB}). Yes Baby Yes (Dissident) made ground well for fifth over 1200 metres at The Valley and a step up in trip makes her worth considering.
Advantage top mare
Hawke’s Bay, G1 Tarzino Trophy, NZ$200,000, 1400m
With the benefit of a handy gate and her current form line, it will be a surprise if Avantage (Fastnet Rock) is rumbled here. She is in superb touch with three Group 1 wins from her last five starts and a resuming victory in the G2 Foxbridge Plate.
There will be major interest in the return of the G1 New Zealand Oaks heroine Jennifer Eccles (NZ) (Rip Van Winkle {Ire}). It’s a distance well shy of her best, but in a fresh state should acquit herself well.
Jennifer Eccles (NZ)
Tavi Mac (NZ) (Tavistock {NZ}) was a gallant second in the Foxbridge and a place chance again while Supera (NZ) (Savabeel) is a quality mare and effective off a break.
Bavella (Snitzel) won in much weaker company at Te Rapa, but showed strong Group form last preparation and from a handy gate is capable of playing a role in the finish.
Loire (NZ) (Redoute’s Choice) and Germanicus (NZ) (Rip Van Winkle {Ire}) are gifted and with luck from wide gates can be prominent. The Mitigator (Master Of Design) has fared much better at the barrier and, if left alone in front, looks the best upset hope.
Gem of a chance
Hawke’s Bay, G3 Hawke’s Bay Breeders’ Gold Trail S., NZ$70,000, 1200m
Opalescence (NZ) (Showcasing {GB}) is a free-going filly and from a handy gate might take some catching with the benefit of two recent trials.
It’s an open affair with a host of chances and among them is De La Terre (NZ) (Reliable Man {GB}) who has the benefit of recent racing and she will appreciate a genuine tempo.
Taroni (NZ)
Taroni (NZ) (Showcasing {GB}) was a last-start fourth in the G3 Northland Breeders’ S. and is certain to be sharper for the outing and Bonita Aurelia (NZ) (Sweynesse) was a Group 3 winner last season and a couple of her trials will have her ready to make an impact.
Babylon Berlin (All Too Hard) won her maiden well enough to suggest she can bridge the gap to stakes company while a fresh Wicket Maiden (NZ) (Power {GB}) and other last-start winners Sweet Anna (NZ) (Tavistock {NZ}) and Sweet Anna (NZ) (Tavistock {NZ}) all add further to the form puzzle.
Point to prove
Hawke’s Bay, Listed El Roca – Sir Colin Meads Trophy, NZ$50,000, 1200m
Yourpoint (NZ) (Bull Point) was impressive in his only start last season and didn’t have much luck when resuming. He is capable of bouncing back with a better run.
The Irishman (NZ) (Tavistock {NZ}) was a smart maiden winner on debut and this is a mediocre black type line-up so he’s right in the fight. Autobahn (NZ) (Charm Spirit {Ire}) was third in the G3 Northland Breeders’ S. and a similar effort will see her claim another cheque.
Chillax (NZ) (Ferlax {NZ}) and Kobe Rocks (NZ) (Rock ‘N’ Pop) both won in good enough style last time out to warrant consideration and Suffused (Choisir) was flat at his most recent appearance, but going on the ease of his debut victory he is certainly worth another chance.
Black type preview: Randwick & Morphettville
5 min read
Top mare to strike again
Randwick, G1 Fujitsu George Main S., $500,000, 1600m
Star mare Verry Elleegant (NZ) (Zed {NZ}) will look to land back-to-back Group 1 wins and become Chris Waller’s seventh winner of the race in nine years. The 5-year-old was impressive when winning the G1 Winx S. last start over 1400 metres and we know she only gets better over more ground so she should again be very hard to beat.
Avilius (GB) (Pivotal {GB}) won this race last year and was very good first-up when fourth behind Mister Sea Wolf (Ire) (Amadeus Wolf {GB}) in the G2 Chelmsford S. He is a horse that always improves with racing through his campaigns, but is yet to beat Verry Elleegant in 2020.
Verry Elleegant (NZ)
John Thomson’s Dreamforce (Fastnet Rock) was very good when leading the all the way to take out the G2 Tramway S. last start, but he has never won over a mile at WFA level. He did run second to Avilius in this race last year and he has drawn the inside gate so won’t have to do any work to get to the lead.
Star Of The Seas (NZ) (Ocean Park {NZ}) was very close to winning the Winx S. first-up, running second to Verry Elleegant by 0.1l. Fierce Impact (Jpn) (Deep Impact {Jpn}) finished third in that race, and he came out and won the G1 Makybe Diva S. last weekend so Star Of The Seas has sound form.
Intriguing rematch
Randwick, G2 Darley Tea Rose S., $200,000, 1400m
Dame Giselle (I Am Invincible) and Hungry Heart (Frankel {GB}) are set for a rematch from the G2 Furious S. last start.
The former won that battle, but they are stepping up to 1400 metres, which is ideal for Hungry Heart and she was also first-up last start so she will have improved a lot out of the run.
Montefilia (Kermadec {NZ}) is a talented filly who is coming off a big gap between runs but she is targeting feature races over much more ground and similarly with Thermosphere (Exosphere) who finished eighth behind Dame Giselle and Hungry Heart last start.
G1 Coolmore Stud S. winner Bivouac (Exceed And Excel) is back for the spring and has trialled superbly. He has only won first-up once from four tries and as a now 4-year-old entire there will be plenty of improvement to come for him.
Also resuming for the spring is Classique Legend (Not A Single Doubt), who is on a path to The Everest next month. He is another one who has trialled well and his last run was only in June so he will have plenty of residual fitness.
New Zealand raider Catalyst (NZ) (Darci Brahma {NZ}) has a great first-up record, albeit against must softer opposition, and is gunning for a slot in The Everest. He has drawn the inside barrier so he won’t be able to get too far back in the run. Whether he can keep up with early speed that is likely to be set by some genuine sprinters, remains to be seen.
Eduardo (Host {Chi}) is also eyeing an Everest spot after two runs for two wins across the winter. He was out of form and dealing with some injuries for a while, but Joe Pride seems to have rejuvenated him and got him back to his best.
Distance key factor
Randwick, G3 Bill Ritchie H., $160,000, 1400m
Probabeel (NZ) (Savabeel) was unlucky not to win first-up when she stormed home and just missed out on winning and stepping up in distance will be ideal. She just needs to stay out of trouble to bring her sharp turn of foot into play.
Probabeel (NZ)
Reloaded (Snitzel) finished third behind Dreamforce (Fastnet Rock) in the G2 Tramway S. when fresh and has a good second-up record. He is down in the weights and makes each way appeal.
Brandenburg (NZ) (Burgundy {NZ}) also warrants a second look with the benefit of a resuming run and he has since enjoyed a quiet trial while Roheryn’s (Lonhro) form is sound and won the G3 Show County last time out at the expense of Probabeel.
Look to Zebrowski
Randwick, G3 Schweppes Kingston Town S., $160,000, 2000m
Zebrowski (NZ) (Savabeel) has been unplaced, but not far away, in both outings this preparation and he is now up to a more suitable trip. Last season’s G1 Australian Derby runner-up looks poised for a return to form.
Paths Of Glory (GB) (Mastercraftsman {Ire}) is in great touch and was a smart last-start winner of the Listed Wyong Cup. Taikomochi (Snitzel) is genuine and always a chance if left to his own devices in front.
Angel Of Truth (Animal Kingdom {USA}) is showing signs of returning to the form that won him an Australian Derby in 2019. Both of his efforts this campaign have held merit. Shared Ambition (Ire) (Born To Sea {Ire}) is now up to a trip more to his liking so look for sharp improvement from him.
Kemalpasa (Magnus) has the shining form line as a last-start third in the G3 Spring S. behind subsequent G1 Memsie S winner Behemoth (All Too Hard) and should be awfully hard to hold out in this.
Prophet’s Thumb (I Am Invincible) is making a fresh start and has twice won off a break so she’s a distinct threat and Garner (Barbados) was a close fifth when resuming in the G3 The Heath and is a past second-up winner.
Ef Troop (Spirit Of Boom) has trialled well ahead of opening his spring campaign while the stablemates Shamino (Shamus Award) and Seemingly Discreet (Sepoy) have tidy records and will give trainer Phillip Stokes a decent hand.
Black type results: Newcastle
3 min read
Newcastle, G3 Sharp Electronics Group Newcastle Gold Cup, $200,000, 2300m
Race summary
Mugatoo (Ire) (Henrythenavigator {USA}) gave weight and a beating to his rivals with a strong staying performance to remain unbeaten this preparation.
Successful in his first two runs at Rosehill, the 6-year-old was a clear topweight with 59kg, but he made light of that by coming from a handy sit at the top of the straight to round off strongly and account for the front-runner Hush Writer (Jpn) (Rulership {Jpn}).
The winner’s stablemate Attention Run (Ger) (Hurricane Run {Ire}) also enjoyed a cosy run and fought on strongly for third ahead of the Listed Wyong Cup winner Paths (GB) (Mastercraftsman {Ire}) who raced outside the leader.
Pedigree notes
Mugatoo is a half-brother to the Listed Goodwood Height Of Fashion S. winner Elik (Ire) (Dalakhani {Ire}) and they are out of Elopa (Ger) (Tiger Hill {Ire}).
She was a talented staying mare who won the G2 Saint-Cloud Prix Corrida and the G3 Chantilly Prix Allex France.
Elopa is a half-sister to the G1 Singapore International Cup winner Epalo (Ger) (Lando {Ger}) and an internationally-successful family that includes the Group-winning half-brothers Eagle Rise (Ire) (Danehill {USA}) and Eye Of The Tiger (Ire) (Tiger Hill {Ire}).
Newcastle, G3 Australian Bloodstock Cameron H., $160,000, 1500m
Race summary
With the benefit of a resuming run under his belt, Rock (Pierro) had no trouble defending his title with another impressive display.
He finished fifth off the back of a break in the G2 Tramway S. and showed significant improvement to come with a powerhouse finish from the back of the field to win by 3.75l going away.
Just Thinkin’ (So You Think {NZ}) had looked to be making heavy weather of it 600 metres from home, but got a second wind to get home for second ahead of Chief Ironside (GB) (Lawman {Fr}) who went boldly to open his spring campaign.
Pedigree notes
Rock was purchased out of Coolmore’s draft at the 2017 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale for $130,000.
He is a brother to the seven-time winner and black-type placegetter Femme Fireball and they are out of Subtitle (Fastnet Rock), who was successful once.
She is a daughter of the G1 Beat Diabetes S. winner Credit Account (NZ) (Imposing) with an international flavour added to the pedigree by the G2 Criterium de Maisons-Laffitte winner Bishop Of Cashel (GB) (Warning {GB}), also a dual Group 3 winner.
Newcastle, G3 Yarraman Park Tibbie S., $160,000, 1400m
Race summary
All Saint’s Eve (NZ) (Sacred Falls {NZ}) continued her impressive progression through the ranks with the first stakes victory of her career.
She settled behind the leading division on the fence and once rider James McDonald angled her into the clear in the straight she produced an irresistible finish for the fourth win of her eight-start career.
Yamazaki (Real Saga) finished generously to take second money ahead of Wandabaa (Wandjina), who continued her consistent run of form.
Pedigree notes
Bred and raced by Waikato Stud and Rosemont Stud, All Saint’s Eve is a half-sister to the G1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas winner Hasahalo (NZ) (Savabeel).
Their dam Halloween (Encosta De Lago) was an NZ$11,000 buy at the New Zealand Bloodstock National Broodmare Sale for Waikato Stud.
She is a daughter of the dual stakes winner La Lagune (Danehill {USA}), who was also runner-up in the G1 Blue Diamond S. and the family of the Group 3-winning brothers Savvy Nature (NZ) (Savabeel) and Addictive Nature (NZ).
Worldwide Group 1s
0 min read
Sept 19 - 2.25PM
G1 Tarzino Trophy
NZ
Hastings
Sept 19 - 3.15PM
G1 Fujitsu George Main S.
AUS
Randwick
Sept 19 - 4.50PM
G1 Neds Sir Rupert Clark S.
AUS
Caulfield
Sept 20 - 5.04AM
G1 Belmont Oaks Invitational
USA
Belmont
Sept 20 - 7.39AM
G1 Ricoh Woodbine Mile S.
CAN
Woodbine
Sept 21 - 6.29AM
G1 Summer S.
CAN
Woodbine
Sept 21 - 7.35AM
G1 Natalma S.
CAN
Woodbine
Foal Showcase
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Daily News Wrap
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Handicap key to success
James Cummings is banking on a return to handicap racing to deliver a maiden Group 1 win for Cascadian (GB) (New Approach {Ire}) when he runs in the Sir Rupert Clarke S. at Caulfield.
He has finished fourth in both outings at weight-for-age in the G2 PB Lawrence S. and the G1 Memsie S. this preparation.
“I think he has to lift to be competitive here, but I believe he can do that,” Cummings said. “He should be close to peak fitness after two good efforts at weight-for-age and he might have got the knack of Caulfield by now.
“As a handicap, this race should be easier and it might lead the way to a winnable Toorak H.
“He’s a horse who has promised quite a bit and who now has the chance to live up to it.”
Blinkers off
A new look Dreamforce (Fastnet Rock) will step out in the G1 Fujitsu George Main S. at Randwick.
The 8-year-old won the G2 Tramway S. last time out, but will be minus the blinkers when he moves up from 1400 to 1600 metres on Saturday.
Trainer John Thompson said he was keen to try Dreamforce without the headgear as he had raced keenly in them and the move may help the gelding to see out a strong mile.
Dreamforce (orange silks)
Trainer in bullish mood
Co-trainer Tony McEvoy has confidence in both of his chances in the G1 Sir Rupert Clarke S. contenders.
Pretty Brazen (Brazen Beau) won the G2 Let’s Elope S. a week ago while Dollar For Dollar (High Chaparral {Ire}) was fifth in the G2 Bobbie Lewis Quality.
McEvoy was buoyed by both performances and said it was always the stable’s intention to back them up in the Caulfield feature.
Deep Field colt sizzles
A son of Deep Field posted the slickest time in Inglis Ready2Race breeze-up history at Warwick Farm on Friday.
The colt out of Sugar Bay (Can) (Syncline {USA}), Lot 135, stole the show for Blake Ryan Racing, recording a scintillating time of 9.95s.
Others to excel included Lot 35, a Capitalist colt out of Lady Sniper (Snippetson) of Glenn Haven Thoroughbreds (10.17s) and Lot 164, son of Shalaa (Ire) from Zarakiysha (Ire) (Kendor {Fr}) (10.18s).
Ryan, this year’s Ready2Race leading vendor by numbers with 18 lots, was thrilled but not shocked by the speed of his Deep Field colt.
“He is an absolute jet, one of the sharpest horses I’ve ever sat on,’’ he said. “He’s got a great brain, he’ll canter around all day for you, you could nearly go chasing cattle on him, but as soon as you ask him to go, he knows it’s go time and he produces.
“That’s what I like most about him, he knows when to switch off and knows when to switch on.’’
O’Brien pays moving tribute
Aidan O’Brien described Pat Smullen as “irreplaceable” on Thursday, two days after his brother-in-law and nine-time Irish champion jockey lost his battle with pancreatic cancer aged 43.
While Smullen’s and O’Brien’s wives Frances Crowley and Annemarie O’Brien are sisters and highly accomplished horsewomen, Smullen spent much of his career in rivalry with O’Brien as stable jockey to Dermot Weld.
“Pat was one very special person, one of these people you meet once in a lifetime,” O’Brien told Sky Sports Racing. “He is irreplaceable. He was genuine, tough and consistent – an unbelievable horseman and a brilliant jockey.
“He helped everybody and was very sincere to everybody. Nothing about Pat was false, he was true to everybody. I think that’s why he was so admired and will never be forgotten. We felt privileged to know him and to have worked with him and to be part of our family.”
Hastings milestone on cards
Alchemia (NZ) (Per Incanto {USA}) could provide Katrina and Simon Alexander with a memorable milestone at Hastings if she lives up to the promise she has shown her Matamata trainers.
The maiden winner is set to take on the colts and geldings in the Listed El Roca – Sir Colin Meads Trophy, but it would be no surprise to the Alexanders if she provided them with their first win since going into partnership when returning north to Matamata last season.
“We’ve got a high opinion of her,” Katrina Alexander said. “We nominated her for the fillies’ race as well and double accepted with her, but she’s drawn more favourably in the El Roca.
"
Alchemia is unbeaten in her three trials and before she cruised away for a 5.5l win at the Taupo trials earlier this month she had finished third on race day on the same course.
“She’s a lovely, relaxed filly that will settle anywhere and she should get at least 1600 metres. She’s not a big filly, but she is developing strength-wise,” Alexander said.
Ruakaka resumption
Group 1 performer Melt (NZ) (Iffraaj {GB}) will kick-off her spring campaign in the Harcourts Tai Tokerau Trophy at Ruakaka on Saturday.
She hasn’t been seen on race day since her runner-up effort over 1200 metres at Tauranga last November and trainer Nigel Tiley is looking forward to her return.
Melt (NZ)
“Melt had a nice break,” he said. “She came back from Sydney and we gave her one start just to make sure she was happy.
“We put her aside while the tracks were a bit firmer. She was ready to go when we had to go into lockdown with COVID-19, so she just went out to the paddock and then went down to David and Emma-Lee Browne’s to do a bit of work on the hills. She has come back in pretty good nick.”
Melt has a strong first-up record and Tiley is confident she will be able to retain that strike-rate on Saturday.
Owners to return
Owners will be permitted to return to Irish racecourses from Monday in line with the Government’s medium-term COVID-19 plan published earlier this week.
“We are delighted to confirm that for the first time since March 13, owners will be permitted to return to the racecourse from Monday next,” Brian Kavanagh, Chief Executive of Horse Racing Ireland, said,
“Owners play the most important role in Irish racing and they have had to wait quite some time to return to the racecourse to see their horses run.”
Looking Ahead - September 19
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Looking Ahead puts the spotlight on runners of interest across Australia and New Zealand. Whether they are a particularly well-bred or high-priced runner having their first or second start, a promising galloper returning to the track or a horse which has trialled particularly well, we’ll aim to give you something to follow.
Today, we are in the camp at Newcastle of a well-related filly making her first appearance and a lightly-tried relative to a pair of stakes winners. At Caulfield, we are confident of a Group-performed filly shining in a fresh state.
Newcastle, Race 2, 2.09pm AEST, Richard Crookes Construction Plate, $35,000, 1250m
Social Distancing (Sebring) has been given a thorough grounding ahead of her debut with three trial outings and she has won two of them. The latest of them was at Gosford and she did it well enough to suggest a strong first-up showing.
Social Distancing as a yearling
Prepared by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, Social Distancing is a half-sister to the Listed Chief De Beers winner The Virginian (Hinchinbrook), who also ran third in the G1 Stradbroke H., and their dam is the unraced Redwood Dancer (USA) (Forestry {USA}). She is out of the G2 Louisville Breeders’ Cup winner Fiery Pursuit (USA) (Carson City {USA}) with the pedigree also featuring the G1 Frizette S. winner Flanders (USA) (Seeking The Gold {USA}), dam of the G1 Starlet S. winner Surfside (USA) (Seattle Slew {USA}).
Zorocat (Toronado {Ire}) was a $150,000 Inglis Classic Yearling Sale purchase and she is a half-sister to the black-type winners Pure Purrfection (General Nediym), who has produced the three-time Listed winner Outback Barbie (Spirit Of Boom), and Global Warming (Agnes World {USA}) They are out of She’s Purring (Flying Spur), twice successful at Listed level.
Trained by Damien Lane, Zorocat has placed twice in a brief career and hasn’t raced since she finished runner-up at Tamworth. She was a recent runaway trial winner at Wyong under jockey Darryl McLellan, who takes the mount again.
Zorocat as a yearling
Caulfield, Race 3, 1.40pm AEST, 4cyte For Living Legends 3YO, $135,000, 1000m
Muntaseera (I Am Invincible) performed well in strong company last season with success at Rosehill and placings in the G2 Blue Diamond Prelude on this course and in the G3 Thoroughbred Breeders’ S. She hasn’t raced since Randwick, but is good fresh and has to rate highly.
From the powerful stable of Ciaron Maher and David Eustace, Muntaseera is out of the unraced Moosirra (Redoute’s Choice), a sister to the former champion colt and G1 Greyville Golden Horseshoe winner Musir and a half-sister to Group winners Merhee (Elusive Quality {USA}) and Moofeed (Duke Of Marmalade {Ire}). Another feature of the pedigree of the presence of the champion sire King Kamehameha (Jpn).
I Am Invincible, sire of Muntaseera | Standing at Yarraman Park Stud
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