Probabeel secures her star miler status

Written by

Paul Vettise

5 min read

Probabeel (NZ) (Savabeel) completed a red letter day for Jamie Richards when she triumphed in the G1 TAB Epsom H. at Randwick. The impressive Savabeel mare defied her barrier with a super victory.

Probabeel’s Epsom heroics came hard off the heels of a fifth Group 1 success for the Kiwi-bred Verry Elleegant (NZ) (Zed {NZ}) in the TAB Turnbull S. at Flemington to earn her favouritism for the G1 Caulfield Cup and secure a G1 double for NZ-breds.

It was another memorable day in the burgeoning career of Probabeel’s handler Richards, who enjoyed further top-flight success at home when Melody Belle (NZ) (Commands) posted a remarkable 11th Group 1 victory when she beat stablemate Avantage (Fastnet Rock) in the Windsor Park Plate at Hastings.

“It’s quite unbelievable really and a big thank you to all the team who have done a wonderful job to present these mares so well, they are the true champions behind the scenes,” Richards said.

“Probabeel has had a wonderful preparation with nothing to worry about and that’s the difference between winning and getting beaten.

“It’s just such a thrill and she’s a real New Zealand product being bred by Waikato Stud, bought by David Ellis and owned by Cambridge Stud – it’s just a wonderful day.”

Richards watched Probabeel’s Epsom victory travelling home to Matamata from Hastings.

“So much planning and thought went into getting her into the race with the right weight, very much like the old school trainers used to do. Just like Colin Jillings, Dave O’Sullivan and Jim Gibbs, the true legends of New Zealand racing.”

“So much planning and thought went into getting her into the race with the right weight, very much like the old school trainers used to do.” – Jamie Richards

Probabeel, who won last season’s G1 Surround S. at Randwick, had won the G3 Bill Ritchie in her lead-up to the Epsom, in which she looked well-placed with 52.5kg and she had the class to take advantage.

“She loves this track and she loves the mile. The team has done a great job with handling her and with Melody Belle winning the Group 1 at home it’s been a great day,” said Richards’ Sydney representative Craig Thornton, a former top-class jumps jockey.

“She’s had a trouble-free run and she’s just a gorgeous mare and a pleasure to do anything with. We’ll see how she comes through this, but they may look at Melbourne now.”

Cox Plate target

The G1 Cox Plate could become an understandable target for the valuable mare, who has won eight of her 18 starts and more than $2.3 million.

Probabeel had a difficult gate to deal with in the Epsom, but courtesy of a fine ride from Kerrin McEvoy overcame all obstacles to give the jockey his first Epsom success.

“She’s been pleasing us all the way through the preparation. She flew the lids and we were a bit closer than I initially thought we'd be. We had partial cover for most of the race and got snaffled out of a spot when we bunched up at the 1000 metres," McEvoy said.

"She showed her true grit there, she really picked up well for me, and I knew that if I could just have a conservative run through the first part she was going to be really strong for me with no weight on her back and that is exactly what she was able to do.

"I thought straight away at the top of the lane that I had Bossy's (Glen Boss) measure on Funstar."

Probabeel (NZ) after winning the G1 TAB Epsom H.

Funstar (Adelaide {Ire}) fought on gallantly for second with Riodini (NZ) (Proisir) holding third from Yulong Prince (SAF) (Gimmethegreelight).

Probabeel is also a history-maker as she is the only horse to have won the 2 and 3-year-old editions of the Karaka Million, eligible for that series after the Waikato Stud-bred was purchased at New Zealand Bloodstock’s National Yearling Sale by Te Akau’s David Ellis for NZ$380,000.

Cambridge Stud principals Brendan and Jo Lindsay were the underbidders and subsequently reached an agreement to purchase Probabeel.

She is a daughter of the Pins mare Far Fetched (NZ), who is a three-quarter sister to the G2 Thousand Guineas Prelude winner Legless Veuve (NZ) and the G3 Mannerism S. winner Tootise (NZ), dam of the three-time Group 2 winner and sire Ocean Emperor (NZ).

Group race double

Mirage Dancer (GB) (Frankel {GB}) provided the closing leg of an inter-start double when he won the G1 Heineken Metropolitan after Sierra Sue (NZ) (Darci Brahma {NZ}) had come off the ballot to land the G2 Lexus Rose Of Kingston S. at Flemington.

“He was travelling like a winner the whole race and I had a lot of horse on the home turn. He did it nicely and he’s a very good horse and he’s got to go around in the G1 Melbourne Cup as a very good chance,” successful rider Nash Rawiller said.

“Trent told me he was spot on and 600 metres from home I was confident. My bloke went through his gears beautifully.”

Mirage Dancer came with a well-timed run to chase down the favourite Mugatoo (Ire) (Henrythenavigator {USA}) with front-runner Angel Of Truth (Animal Kingdom {USA}) finishing a game third in front of Hush Writer (Jpn) (Rulership {Jpn}).

Crack mare shows class on dry track in Turnbull

Written by

Paul Vettise

4 min read

Any thoughts that Verry Elleegant (NZ) (Zed {NZ}) would struggle to cope with a firmer surface at Flemington were dispelled when the mare added another Group 1 victory to her collection in the TAB Turnbull S.

Verry Elleegant has a well-earned reputation as a superior wet track performer, but she showed both her versatility and class by accounting for a quality line-up of weight-for-age performers in the 2000 metre feature.

In yet another stunning result for Chris Waller, Verry Elleegant headed home a Turnbull trifecta for the master Sydney-based trainer with Toffee Tongue (NZ) (Savabeel) finishing hard for second and Finche (GB) (Frankel {GB}) taking third in a hard-fought finish.

Verry Elleegant’s performance under new rider Mark Zahra elevated her to $8 favouritism for the G1 Caulfield Cup ahead of Aidan O’Brien’s Anthony Van Dyck (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}).

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The mare had won the G1 Winx S. when resuming and then finished fourth of seven in the G1 George Main S. at Randwick before moving camp to Melbourne.

“Mark certainly gave her every chance today and she wasn’t disgraced at her previous start,” Waller’s Melbourne representative Jo Taylor said.

“She probably had a lot of knockers, but she showed she’s also better outside of horses and given some room and allowed to find her feet before she shows her best side.”

Mare’s class shines

Taylor admitted there was some pre-race concern about the firmer surface, but class won out.

“Absolutely, it’s certainly something we took into consideration but it is what it is and you play to it on the day and she showed it doesn’t worry her,” she said.

Verry Elleegant sat back in the second half of the field before Zahra urged her forward and they were widest into the straight.

“Her wet record is a bit better than on the dry, but she only had 55.5kg in the race and she did the rest,” he said. “I had the back of Finche and one got under my neck, which I wasn’t happy about and I had to come another horse wider.

“She likes being outside horses and she likes being in the open. She was strong at the finish because it was a ding-donger."

“She was strong at the finish because it was a ding-donger.” – Mark Zahra

While the G1 Cox Plate may now become an option, Zahra is hoping connections stick to the original plan.

“I’m booked for the Caulfield Cup so I hope they go there,” he said.

Last season’s G1 Schweppes Oaks winner Toffee Tongue raced midfield on the fence and she got home strongly along the rail to put a previous unplaced effort behind her.

“She was absolutely fantastic and she nearly upset the whole apple cart and good to see her bounce back. We were a touch disappointed in her last start, but she’s back,” Taylor said.

Verry Elleegant (NZ) (red and blue silks), and Finche (pink cap)

The third member of the Waller trio Finche also performed with great distinction to finish a close third.

“He again was fantastic and he’s looking to step out in trip and we know the G1 Melbourne Cup is his grand final,” Taylor said.

She put down Waller’s remarkable training success to a combination of factors.

“Chris has patience and has his own ideas and sticks with it. A lot of people may question it, but he backs himself and at the same time gives his team the freedom to do what they think is best for the horses,” she said.

“At the end of the day, nothing beats hard work and I think you’ll find nobody works harder than Chris on a daily basis.”

Montefilia airborne to take Flight honours

Written by

Paul Vettise

4 min read

Trainer David Payne has been convinced for some time that Montefilia (Kermadec {NZ}) had Group 1 qualities and the filly proved the vastly-experienced horseman to be right on the money at Randwick.

Payne has a glowing opinion of Montefilia and his judgement was proved spot on when she took centre stage with a stout finish to land the G1 Darley Flight S. on Saturday.

Pre-race discussion had been dominated by Dame Giselle (I Am Invincible), who had won the previous three legs of the Princess Series, and Hungry Heart (Frankel {GB}), who was expected to relish the step up to 1600 metres.

But it was Payne’s Montefilia who was best served by the move up to a mile and in Hugh Bowman’s hands she came with an irresistible finish to earn top honours and a possible tilt at next weekend’s G1 Spring Champion S.

Montefilia had won over 1500 metres at Rosehill in August and then made late ground for fourth in the G2 Tea Rose S., then on a path to the G1 VRC Oaks.

“She had come out of the paddock and had a winter coat and I said to Hugh she was a couple of lengths better after that last run,” Payne said.

“Our original plan was the Oaks, but now that she has won a Group 1 we don’t have to worry too much about going to Melbourne. We’ll see how she pulls up and we might back her up in the Spring Champion and then go to the paddock.”

“Our original plan was the Oaks, but now that she has won a Group 1 we don’t have to worry too much about going to Melbourne.” – David Payne

Payne doesn’t believe a seven-day back-up will faze Montefilia.

“She’s a laid-back filly and eats well and doesn’t have to do too much next week it all depends on her,” he said. “I’ll see how she is in the next few days.”

Payne was a champion apprentice and senior jockey in South Africa before embarking on an outstanding training career with more than 100 Group 1 victories to his credit.

He moved with his family to Australia in 2002 and his first Group 1 success came with Unearthly (NZ) (Zabeel {NZ}) winning the 2003 edition of the Flight S. However, Payne isn’t a great one for statistics.

“I think it’s seven or eight in Australia now, I don’t know about records,” he said.

David Payne

High opinion

Runner-up Hungry Heart fought on tenaciously with Vangelic (Vancouver) boxing on for third after making the play out in front and Dame Giselle finished fourth. She was denied a run early in the run home, but didn’t show her trademark sprint when into the clear.

“I’m so proud of the horse and David has a very high opinion of her. It was slowly run (Tea Rose S.) when she ran fourth and it was a bit more cat and mouse today,” Montefilia’s rider Hugh Bowman said.

“I’m so proud of the horse and David has a very high opinion of her.” – Hugh Bowman

“I rode her to help her run her best race and I was rubbing my hands together down the back straight. It’s great to be back in the winner’s circle.

“David always finds a good horse and he knows how to manage them. My filly was always going to be more comfortable over further distances and she’s very exciting.”

Payne purchased Montefilia out of Tyreel Stud’s draft at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale for $130,000. She is a daughter of Bana Wu (GB) (Shirocco {GB}), who won up to 2000 metres in England and was a multiple Listed placegetter.

Her pedigree page includes the G2 Goodwood Vintage S. winner Strategic Prince (GB) (Dansili {GB}) and the Listed Aston Park S. winner Yorkshire (Ire) (Generous {Ire}).

Montefilia as a yearling

Enthaar cruises to Gimcrack win

4 min read

Written by Georgie Dennis

Enthaar (Written Tycoon) justified her short-priced favouritism and backed-up her impressive trial win with a dominant performance in the G3 Gimcrack S. at Randwick on Saturday.

Trained by Ciaron Maher and David Eustace, the 2-year-old filly sat on the speed three-wide with no cover under James McDonald and she tracked up with ease in the straight, kicking clear to win by 3l with the minimum of fuss.

Mallory (Not A Single Doubt) finished off the race well to land second place, with Total Babe (I Am Invincible) a further 0.5l away in third.

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Thermosphere delivers a Group win for Exosphere

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“She had the runs on the board in terms of trials and jump-outs,” Maher said. “It will be interesting to see what James says - he should be a pretty good judge.

“I’d just like to thank all of our track riders. We’ve been under a bit of pressure lately, there’s only four of them there, five now, and there’s a bit of a shortage so I would really like to thank them and all of the staff.”

While Enthaar has shortened into the $7 favourite for the G1 Golden Slipper S. next year, Maher said the $1 million Golden Gift is the next likely target for the talented 2-year-old.

“I thought maybe the Golden Gift would be a nice race for her,” the co-trainer said. “If she can do the right thing there we can reset for a Slipper or something like that.”

“I thought maybe the Golden Gift would be a nice race for her. If she can do the right thing there we can reset for a Slipper or something like that.” - Ciaron Maher

McDonald was full of praise for the filly and believes she is destined to get over more ground.

“I suppose the performance speaks for itself,” the jockey said. “It felt as good as it looked, to be honest, she’s just a dream to ride.

“The only concern I had today was just getting her out, but once she flew out the machines she just did everything like a 3-year-old.

“She floats along the ground, relaxes well, and when I ask her she just lowers and boots. Six furlongs is what she is crying out for now.”

James McDonald and Enthaar return to scale

McDonald also credited Enthaar’s attitude and said that it will take her a long way through her 2-year-old campaign.

“She's the most mature of the early 2-year-olds I’ve sat on, she’s just fully there,” he said.

“Her action is so strong. Mentally she is so strong and her high cruising speed that she possesses is going to hold her in great stead.

“As the races get stronger that is when she will come into her own.”

“As the races get stronger that is when she will come into her own.” - James McDonald

Bred and raced by Emirates Park, Enthaar is the second named foal out of Final Agreement (Not A Single Doubt), who was bought by the operation for $400,000 at the 2016 Magic Millions National Broodmare Sale.

Final Agreement is out of an unraced daughter of Red Ransom (USA) in Negotiate (GB), making her a sister to Group 1-winning sprinter Secret Agenda and G2 Sweet Embrace S. and G3 Gimcrack S. runner-up Stellar Pauline.

Enthaar’s third dam is also G1 Champagne S. winner Euphoria (Marauding {NZ}), while this is also the family of G1 Randwick Guineas winner Kementari (Lonhro) and late New Zealand sire Thorn Park.

Final Agreement has a yearling colt by I Am Invincible, however she missed in 2019.

Enthaar also continues the hot form of Written Tycoon as she becomes his 37th individual stakes winner.

Relocated from Woodside Park to Arrowfield Stud for the 2020 season, Written Tycoon stands for a fee of $77,000 (inc GST).

First and third for Frosted in Maribyrnong Trial

5 min read

Written by Georgie Dennis

Darley’s first-season shuttler Frosted (USA) has kicked off his Southern Hemisphere career with flying colours after he scored first and third in the Listed Darley Maribyrnong Trial S. at Flemington on Saturday.

Frosted’s son Ingratiating defeated Darley Spring Preview winner General Beau (Brazen Beau) by 1l with his daughter Cloudy running on strongly to finish 4.5l away in third.

Ridden by Damien Oliver, Ingratiating jumped from the inside barrier and went toe-to-toe with General Beau in the final stages of the race but managed to edge him out to score the win.

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“We’ve produced three of these Frosteds now, last week The Globe and now this colt, and we’ve always had a good feel about him, it’s a super result,” said stable representative Sean Keogh.

"We always had a good feel for him. The guys at Crown Lodge in Sydney took him through his paces and then he came to Melbourne about six weeks ago.

"I think the first pair put a good few lengths to the third horse. (With Cloudy third) it was a good representation for Frosted.

"It looked like he (Ingratiating) had good natural speed but he had toughness to fight it out and the class, too. He's got plenty of scope to come and we're delighted with that."

“Damien sat just off the speed and when he produced this colt, he showed an electric turn of foot. He has natural speed and toughness with plenty of scope to come.”

Oliver was also impressed with Ingratiating’s performance and has liked what he has seen of Frosted’s progeny so far.

Frosted (USA), sire of Ingratiating | Standing at Darley

"He's a little ripper," the champion jockey said. "He pleased me in his trials. He didn't quite get it all together, but I knew he had something there.

"He jumped well today, which he hadn't done in his trials and he was a very professional horse.

"I've only ridden two of these Frosteds (sire) - a filly that ran third here at the last meeting and this bloke, and geez they're really forward and precocious types and I think this bloke has got a good future in front of him.

"Geez they're [Frosted] really forward and precocious types and I think this bloke has got a good future in front of him." - Damien Oliver

"(General Beau) was probably a couple of lengths in front of us and I was keeping him in my sights. It is never easy for a horse on the inside coming through, especially a young unraced horse. He responded really well.

"It's always good when they clear out from the rest and you think they're two nice colts and this horse has got a good future."

Bred by Godolphin, Ingratiating is the fourth foal to race and win out of Obsequious (Lonhro), who won the G2 Light Fingers S. and G3 San Domenico S.

Out of Commands mare Sycophant, she is a half-sister to two other winners while her third dam is also responsible for G2 Tea Rose S. placegetter Sydney Owner (Octagonal).

Obsequious has a yearling filly by Sepoy while she is back in foal to Frosted.

Ingratiating is the first Southern Hemisphere winner for Frosted and his seventh overall but he is the first stakes winner worldwide for the multiple Group 1 winner.

At his third season standing at Darley’s Northwood Park in Victoria, Frosted stands for a fee of $22,000 (inc GST).

Hot start for Artie

Newgate first-season sire Flying Artie has also gotten off to a good start as a sire with his first runner Princess Bojack scoring on debut at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

The Michael Nolan-trained filly won by 0.75l ahead of Stellar Magic (Star Turn) with Headlander (Better Than Ready) a further 2.5l away in third.

“We bought her at the sales, she’s been in and out a couple of times and we brought her back in with the Magic Millions in mind,” Nolan said.

“She is small but nice and racey and she has been a good filly to train.

“We might give her a bit of a break now and see what we do.”

Watch: Princess Bojack winning at Eagle Farm

Princess Bojack was purchased by Nolan for $50,000 at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale from the draft of Murrulla Stud and she is the first foal to race out of five-time winner Catseye Surprise (Testa Rossa).

Catseye Surprise has a yearling colt by Star Turn and was covered by Winning Rupert last spring.

Flying Artie, who himself was a talented juvenile, stands at Newgate Farm for a fee of $16,500 (inc GST) this season.

Shaquero gives Shalaa a flying start

3 min read

Written by Georgie Dennis

Shaquero (Shalaa {Ire}) capped a big day for this year’s crop of first-season sires as the son of Arrowfield shuttler Shalaa (Ire) went all the way to take out the G3 Breeders’ Plate at Randwick on Saturday.

The Chris Waller-trained colt jumped quickly and went straight to the front, settling outside Retiro (Snitzel) under James McDonald.

The 2-year-old showcased an electric turn of foot in the straight as he raced away from the 300 metre mark, going on to win by 1.3l.

The minor placings were filled by the Peter and Paul Snowden stable as Construct (I Am Invincible) ran on well to score second with Astrology (Star Turn) a further 1.3l back in third.

Shaquero began his campaign at Waller’s Queensland base and the trainer credited his team up north for encouraging him to bring the colt to Sydney for this race.

Shaquero

“We didn’t sneak him down, the team at the Gold Coast sent him down,” Waller said. “They said this horse must come to Sydney for the Breeders'.

“I’m lucky to have good staff working for me not just in Sydney but at the Gold Coast, Melbourne and Warwick Farm. That’s the beauty of having a big team of good staff.”

Waller said he thinks Shaquero will be a better horse over more ground in time and isn’t a typical G1 Golden Slipper S. type

“He’s got class written all over him,” the champion trainer said. “If you asked me which Group 1 race he was going to win I would say a Doncaster more than a Golden Slipper but who knows he might win one on the way through.

“Finding horses with ability, whether that be at the sales or on the racetrack is one thing, and looking after them is the other.”

“Finding horses with ability, whether that be at the sales or on the racetrack is one thing, and looking after them is the other.” - Chris Waller

McDonald rode the winner of both juvenile features, having partnered Enthaar (Written Tycoon) to score the G3 Gimcrack S. and he said he was impressed by both performances.

“He’s very precocious strong, he’s a ready-made racehorse that does everything so well,” McDonald said. “He’s a good advertisement for the sire Shalaa.

“Hopefully he can come on from here and being a Breeders' Plate winner they usually kick on.

“I enjoyed riding both of them, they are both precocious sort of horses, both have beautiful actions, and will go a long way.”

Shaquero was purchased by Chris Waller Racing and Guy Mulcaster for $160,000 at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale from the draft of Fernrigg Farm.

He is the fourth named foal out of dual-winning mare Fimatino (Not A Single Doubt), who is herself a half-sister to Listed winner Catacaos (Catbird) and the dam of G1 Cox Plate winner and now Rosemont Stud sire Shamus Award.

Fimatino has a yearling filly by Hellbent and a foal colt by Rubick.

Shaquero is the first Australian winner and first worldwide stakes winner for Shalaa, who is already responsible for 13 individual winners in the Northern Hemisphere.

This year Shalaa stands his third season at Arrowfield Stud for a fee of $33,000 (inc GST).

Shaquero as a yearling

Grand mare gives trainer right signal

4 min read

Written by Paul Vettise

Jamie Richards had an inkling during the week that Melody Belle (NZ) (Commands) was ready to rediscover her Group 1 touch and that feeling became a reality at Hastings where she created history 12 months ago.

Te Akau head trainer Richards was pleased with Melody Belle’s progress ahead of Saturday’s G1 Windsor Park Plate and her fighting qualities at the top level earned her a remarkable 11th Group 1 victory.

They include all three legs of last year’s Hawke’s Bay Triple Crown series and she is now likely to return in a fortnight to contest the G1 Livamol Classic.

Melody Belle’s most recent racing had been across the Tasman with two unsuccessful outings in August and it proved a masterstroke to cut short her Sydney campaign to regroup and focus on Hastings.

“I just had a feeling on Thursday morning that she was back to somewhere where she needed to be and she’s a wonderful mare. She’s a credit to everybody that has looked after her all the way through,” Richards said.

“I honestly don’t believe that she was going that badly in Sydney. She was running into proper horses and without a lot of luck so here she is back in New Zealand and she loves it.”

“She was running into proper horses and without a lot of luck so here she is back in New Zealand and she loves it.” – Jamie Richards

Melody Belle sat off a hot pace set up by The Mitigator (Master Of Design) and when he started to come back to the field rider Troy Harris made his move on the mighty mare.

She lengthened stride when asked and in a driving finish she got the better of her stablemate Avantage (Fastnet Rock).

“It’s a credit to our team and to Troy who works incredibly hard. It was a lovely ride from Troy to have her in the right spot and she got the job done,” Richards said.

Avantage (left) Melody Belle (NZ) (centre) and Callsign Mav (right)

Renewed rivalry

Melody Belle and Avantage are both pencilled in to renew their rivalry in the Livamol.

“I don’t see why not. We’ll get them home and have a look at things and probably be back here in a fortnight,” Richards said. “Avantage got away cleanly today and she tracked the other mare into the race and has gone down fighting. Two proper champions and we’re lucky to have them in the stable.”

“Two proper champions and we’re lucky to have them in the stable.” – Jamie Richards

Upset G1 Tarzino Trophy winner Callsign Mav (Atlante) was a gallant third ahead of Two Illicit (NZ) (Jimmy Choux {NZ}), who finished stoutly, and the third of the Richards runners Prise De Fer (NZ) (Savabeel) made eye-catching ground for fifth.

“Avantage headed me, but my mare is so tough and she eye-balled the other horse and said you’re not going to get past me,” Harris said.

“I got into a beautiful spot and all credit to the mare and I’m just so happy to have been on her.”

Bred by Marie Leicester, Melody Belle was bought out of Haunui Farm’s New Zealand Bloodstock Yearling Sale draft by Te Akau supremo David Ellis on behalf of John Galvin’s Fortuna Syndications for NZ$57,500 and has now won more than NZ$3.6 million.

She is a daughter of Meleka Belle (NZ) (Iffraaj {GB}), who is a half-sister to the winner and multiple black type placegetter Tsarina Belle (NZ) (Stravinsky {USA}).

Melody Belle hails from a family that includes Rock Kingdom (Rock Of Gibraltar {Ire}), who was successful in the G1 Epsom H.

Melody Belle (NZ) as a yearling

Group results: Randwick

6 min read

G1 TAB Epsom H., $1,000,000, 1600m

Race summary

The wide draw proved no issue for Probabeel (NZ) (Savabeel) as she raced away to score her second Group 1 win here.

Jumping from barrier 15, the Jamie Richards-trained mare managed to slot in and find cover and peeled out around the bend before kicking clear of her arch-rival Funstar (Adelaide {Ire}) and winning by 1l.

Funstar held on for second with Riordini (NZ) (Proisir) coming home 0.2l away in third.

Pedigree notes

Purchased by David Ellis for NZ$380,000 at the New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale from the draft of Waikato Stud, Probabeel is the only foal to race out of Far Fetched (NZ) (Pins), who won three races and placed in the G3 Lowland S.

Far Fetched herself is out of a half-sister to the G2 Thousand Guineas Prelude winner Legless Veuve (NZ) (Pins) and the Group 3 winner and Group 1-placed Tootsie (NZ) (Pins), who is the dam of multiple Group 2 winner Ocean Emperor (NZ) (Zabeel {NZ}).

Another half-sister, Eudora (NZ) (Pins), is the dam of G1 New Zealand Oaks and Livamol Classic winner Savvy Coup (NZ) (Savabeel).

G1 Darley Flight S., $500,000, 1600m

Race summary

The David Payne-trained Montefilia (Kermadec {NZ}) caused a massive upset as she landed her maiden Group 1 here.

The 3-year-old filly settled last during the run and stormed home down the middle of the track to defeat Hungry Heart (GB) by 0.2l.

Vangelic (Vancouver) finished a further 2l back in third.

Pedigree notes

Montefilia was originally purchased as a weanling by Baystone Farm for $62,000 at the Inglis Great Southern Sale from the draft of Tyreel Stud before being again offered under the Tyreel Stud banner at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale where she was purchased by Payne Racing for $130,000.

She is the third winner from four to race out of Bana Wu who herself was placed at stakes level in the UK three times. Her second dam is Ausherra (USA) (Diesis {GB}), who is also responsible for dual Group 2 winner and the G1 Dewhurst S.-placed Strategic Prince (GB) (Dansili).

Bana Wu has a 2-year-old filly by Arrowfield shuttler Shalaa (Ire), who was purchased by Ciaron Maher Racing for $160,000 at the Inglis Premier Yearling Sale, while she has a yearling colt by Ribchester (Ire).

Montefilia becomes the first stakes winner and Group 1 winner for Darley stallion Kermadec (NZ).

G1 Heineken Metropolitan, $750,000, 2400m

Race summary

Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young’s decision to send Mirage Dancer (GB) (Frankel {GB}) to Sydney proved a correct one as the imported galloper scored his first Group 1 win here.

The entire settled midfield on the rails and managed to find a gap in the straight, bursting though to edge out favourite Mugatoo (Ire) (Henrythenavigator {USA}) with Angel Of Truth (Animal Kingdom {USA}) another 0.2l away in third.

Pedigree notes

Mirage Dancer is one of four winners from six to race out of dual Group 1 winner Heat Haze (GB) (Green Desert {USA}), making him a half-brother to stakes placegetters Forge (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}) and Radiator (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}).

Heat Haze herself is a half-sister to successful stallions Dansili (GB) and Champs Elysees (GB) as well as Group 1 winners Banks Hill (GB) (Danehill {USA}), Intercontinental (GB) (Danehill {USA}) and Cacique (Ire) (Danehill {USA}).

G2 Quincy Seltzer S., Hill S., $500,000, 2000m

Race summary

Kolding (NZ) (Ocean Park {NZ}) backed up his G1 George Main S. win with an impressive victory here.

Chris Waller’s decision to target this race over a back-to-back G1 Epsom H., proved correct at the 5-year-old gelding sat just off the speed and tracked up around the bend before kicking away in the straight to win comfortably by 2l.

Avilius (GB) (Pivotal {GB}) ran home home strongly to finish second while Fierce Impact (Jpn) (Deep Impact {Jpn}) was another 0.2l away in third.

Pedigree notes

A NZ$170,000 New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale purchase by Guy Mulcaster from the draft of Wentwood Grange, Kolding is a half-brother to the G2 Awapuni Gold Cup winner Sampson (Dubai Destination {USA}) and the two-time Listed winner Miss Upstart (Snippetson).

They are out of Magic Star (Danzero) and she is a half-sister to the dual Group 2 winner Make Mine Magic (Canadian Silver {Can}) and the family of the multiple black-type winner Strawberry Malt (Lion Hunter).

G2 Bisley Workwear Premiere S., $500,000, 1200m

Race summary

Libertini (I Am Invincible) staked her claims for a spot in The Everest with an impressive first-up performance here.

The Anthony Cummings-trained mare settled midfield under Regan Bayliss and peeled out at the top of the straight, kicking past Classique Legend (Not A Single Doubt) in the final stages to win by 2l.

Classique Legend held on for second with Deprive (Denman) a further 2l back in third.

Pedigree notes

A Gerry Harvey homebred and raced by him with John Singleton, Libertini is a half-sister to two winners with their dam the G1 Coolmore Classic winner Aloha (Encosta De Lago).

The dam is out of the stakes winner Tennessee Midnight (Danehill {USA}), who is a three-quarter sister to the dual Group 1 winner Malaguerra (Magnus).

It is also the family of the G1 Champagne S. winner Seabrook (Hinchinbrook) and the G2 Moonee Valley Fillies’ Classic winner My Emotion (NZ) (Savabeel).

Aloha has a 2-year-old sister and a yearling brother to Libertini.

G3 Keeneland Gimcrack S., $160,000, 1600m

Race summary

Enthaar (Written Tycoon) sat wide near the pace and cruised to the lead soon after straightening and quickly put the issue beyond doubt.

When rider James McDonald asked the Ciaron Maher and David Eustace-trained filly for a serious effort she surged clear to win by 3l.

Mallory (Not A Single Doubt) was doing his best work late to finish runner-up with Total Babe (I Am Invincible) third ahead of Authentic Jewel (I Am Invincible).

Pedigree notes

Enthaar is raced by breeders Emirates Park and is the second foal out of Final Agreement (Not A Single Doubt).

Final Agreement is a daughter of the unraced Negotiate (Red Ransom {USA}) and is a sister to G1 Ubet Classic S. winner Secret Agenda and G2 Sweet Embrace S. and G3 Gimcrack S. runner-up Stellar Pauline.

Enthaar’s third dam is the G1 Champagne S. winner Euphoria (Marauding {NZ}) and is also the family of G1 Randwick Guineas winner Kementari (Lonhro).

G3 Arrowfield Breeders’ Plate, $160,000, 1000m

Race summary

Shaquero (Shalaa {Ire}) handed rider James McDonald a Group 3 2-year-old double when he raced away to a convincing victory.

McDonald, who won the G3 Gimcrack S. with Enthaar (Written Tycoon), had the Chris Waller-trained colt right on the pace from barrier rise and he sped clear in the straight to win untested.

Construct (I Am Invincible) made ground in the closing 150 metres to take second and Astrologer (Star Turn) came on well to cut Almahero (Al Maher) out of third.

Pedigree notes

The successful debutant credited her Arrowfield Stud-based Shalaa (Ire) sire with his first Southern Hemisphere winner with 13 successes to his credit in Europe.

Shaquero was purchased by Chris Waller Racing and Guy Mulcaster for $160,000 at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale where he was offered by Fernrigg Farm.

He is out of the dual winner mare Fimatino (Not A Single Doubt), who is a half-sister to Listed winner Catacaos (Catbird) and the dam of G1 Cox Plate winner and now Rosemont Stud sire Shamus Award.

Group results: Flemington

6 min read

G1 TAB Turnbull S., $500,000, 2000m

Race summary

Verry Elleegant (NZ) (Zed {NZ}) added another Group 1 win to her CV as she landed a hard-fought victory here.

The Chris Waller-trained mare settled towards the tail of the field but began moving up a long way from home. She was challenged all the way down the straight but never laid down, holding on to win by 0.1l.

Toffee Tongue (NZ) (Tavistock {NZ}) was impressive in the finish as she scored second place with Finche (GB) (Frankel {GB}) another 0.1l back in third.

Pedigree notes

Bred by Don Goodwin, Verry Elleegant is one of three winners out of Opulence (NZ) (Danroad), who herself was a winner of two races.

She is a sister to multiple winner Verry Flash (NZ) and her second dam is Mulan Magic (King’s Theatre {Ire}).

Mulan Magic is a half-sister to the stakes-placed Monards (Danehill {USA}), Starnui (Brave Lad), the dam of Listed Cranbourne Cup winner Starmon (Monolith), and Personal Guarantee (Danzero) who produced Listed-winning 2-year-old Plutocrat (Rich Enuff).

G2 Gilgai S., $300,000, 1200m

Race summary

Zoutori (Zoustar) proved himself as a Flemington straight specialist as he landed his second consecutive Group 2 win over the course here.

The Mathew Ellerton and Simon Zahra-trained gelding settled just off the speed and tracked up with 200 metres to go, hitting the front at the 100-metre mark to win by 0.1l.

Dollar For Dollar (High Chaparral {Ire}) scored his second Group runner-up performance in a row as he fought hard after leading the trip to finish second while Kemalpasa (Magnus) ran on well to finish 0.1l back in third.

Pedigree notes

Purchased by Ellerton Zahra Racing for $160,000 from the Amarina Stud draft at the Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale, Zoutori is the only winner from three to race out of unraced mare Atotori (Haradasun) who herself was a half-sister to G3 Kenilworth Winter Guineas scorer Castlethorpe (Not A Single Doubt).

Zoutori’s third dam is also responsible for Darley Europe sire New Approach (Ire) and Group 3 winner Dazzling Park (Ire) (Warning {GB}), who herself is the dam of G1 Phoenix S. winner Alfred Nobel (Ire) (Danehill Dancer {Ire}).

G2 Edward Manifold S., $300,000, 1600m

Race summary

Thermosphere (Exosphere) continued the run of Sydney horses coming down to Victoria and winning as she took out her second stakes race here.

The James Cummings-trained filly settled midfield, wide and without cover but her class got her over the line as she stormed home down the middle of the track to win by 0.2l.

Starelle (More Than Ready {USA}) and Chica Fuerte (Hinchinbrook) were good in the final stages of the race to score second and third respectively.

Pedigree notes

Thermosphere was bred by Godolphin Australia and her dam is Glows (Canny Lad), who won the Listed Typhoon Tracy S. and placed in the G3 WW Cockram S. and Listed Kevin Hayes S.

Glows is out of a half-sister to Falaise (Grand Lodge {USA}), who won 10 races including the G3 Newmarket H. and the Listed Hall Mark S. and JRA S. He also placed in the G2 Sir Byrne Hart S., G2 Apollo S., G3 Victoria H., G3 Cameron H. and two Listed races.

Another half-sibling, Tahitian Black (Lonhro), placed in the G3 Maurice McCarten S. and Listed Canterbury Classic.

Thermosphere is the first winner out of Glows, who is the dam of two foals to race. She has a 2-year-old colt by Exosphere who is named Brillar, a yearling colt by Pierro and a filly foal by Exosphere.

G2 Rose Of Kingston S., $300,000, 1400m

Race summary

Sierra Sue (NZ) (Darci Brahma {NZ}) added an invaluable stakes win to her CV as she flew up the rails to nab am impressive victory here.

The Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young-trained mare settled at the rear of the field under Michael Walker and she managed to weave her way through the field, showcasing an impressive turn of foot to burst through and win by 0.4l.

The ever consistent She Shao Fly (Epaulette) scored a third stakes placing this campaign as she finished second with Missile Mantra (Smart Missile) flying down the middle of the track to score third.

Pedigree notes

Sierra Sue was purchased for NZ$2000 at the New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka May Sale by Peter Lock and she is one of four winners from five to race out of Centree (NZ) (Centaine).

Centree is a half-sister to the stakes-placed Miss Puzzle (Citidancer {Ire}), who herself produced G1 Santa Anita Oaks and G1 Las Virgenes S. winner Fashion Plate (USA) (Old Fashioned {USA}).

Further back this is also the family of multiple Group 1 winner Tit For Taat (NZ) (Faltaat {USA}).

G3 The Bart Cummings, $500,000, 2510m

Race summary

The Ciaron Maher and David Eustace-trained Persan (Pierro) locked in his spot for the G1 Melbourne Cup with an impressive victory here.

At his 10th start for the campaign, the 4-year-old gelding jumped from the inside barrier and settled on the rails with cover before gaining clear galloping room in the straight and bursting through to go on and win by 1l.

Sound (Ger) (Lando {Ger}) stuck on well to score second while Steel Prince (Ire) {Nathaniel {Ire}) ran home strongly to finish 0.1l away in third.

Pedigree notes

Purchased by James Bester bloodstock for $160,000 at the 2017 Magic Millions National Weanling Sale, Persan is the fourth foal to race, all of which are winners, out of G1 Coolmore Classic winner Ofcourseican (Mossman).

Ofcourseican is out of Yes She Can (Canny Lad) making her a half-sister South African Grade 1 winner Gimmethegreenlight (More Than Ready {USA}).

Further back, this is also the family of Group winners Greggers (Commands) and Girl Guide (Churchill Down).

Ofourcseican has a yearling filly by Astern.

Listed Darley Maribyrnong Trial S., $175,000,1000m

Race summary

The James Cummings-trained Ingratiating (Frosted {USA}) produced a professional display at the first time of asking to land a winning blow.

The colt was kept on the speed by rider Damien Oliver and they proved too strong for the hot favourite General Beau (Brazen Beau) in the closing 150 metres.

The winner’s stablemate Cloudy (Frosted {USA}) made ground solidly to finish third ahead of Gummy Bear (Statue Of Liberty {USA}).

Pedigree notes

Ingratiating delivered an outstanding result for Darley stallion Frosted (USA), who now has a winner and two placegetters from his first crop runners.

This colt is a son of Obsequious (Lonhro), who has left two other multiple winners, and successful in the G2 Light Fingers S. and the G2 San Domenico S.

There is little black type in the upfront pedigree with the two-time winner and G2 Tea Rose S. placegetter Sydney Owner (Octagonal {NZ}) the only stakes performer in the first two generations.

Group results: Hastings & Riccarton

3 min read

G1 Windsor Park Plate, $200,000, 1600m

Race summary

The Jamie Richards-trained Melody Belle (NZ) (Commands) sat in sixth spot off a hot speed set up by The Mitigator (Master Of Design) and rider Troy Harris edged her closer near the turn.

The top-class mare let down strongly and in a driving finish to post the 11th Group 1 win of her career by a slender margin.

Stablemate Avantage (Fastnet Rock) pushed her all the way, but was unable to get her nose in front at the post and Callsign Mav (Atlante) showed his first-day win in the G1 Tarzino Trophy to be no flash in the pan with a sound run for third.

Pedigree notes

Melody Belle was purchased by Te Akau chief David Ellis on behalf of Fortuna Syndications for NZ$57,500 out of Haunui Farms’ draft at the New Zealand Bloodstock Yearling Sale.

She is a daughter of Meleka Belle (NZ) (Iffraaj {GB}) and she is a half-sister to the winner and multiple black type placegetter Tsarina Belle (NZ) (Stravinsky {USA}).

Melody Belle hails from a prolific winning family that includes Rock Kingdom (Rock Of Gibraltar {Ire}), who was successful in the G1 Epsom H.

G2 Dundeel at Arrowfield Hawke’s Bay Guineas, $100,000, 1400m

Race summary

Aegon (NZ) (Sacred Falls {NZ}) produced a powerhouse display to keep his unbeaten record intact.

A stylish debut winner at Taupo in August, he came with a dashing late run to emulate his late sire, who won the 2012 edition of the race.

Bourbonaire (NZ) (Darci Brahma {NZ}) finished hard to be a close second with Moana (NZ) (Ocean Park {NZ}) an unlucky third after being denied room in the straight.

Pedigree notes

Aegon was bred by Waikato Stud and sold to co-trainer Andrew Forsman, who has remained in the ownership, for NZ$150,000 at new Zealand Bloodstock’s National Yearling Sale.

He is a son of the Zabeel (NZ) mare Toss Up (NZ) and she has a 100 per cent record at stud with all four foals to race successful.

The pedigree page features the three-time Group 1 winner Daffodil (NZ) (No Excuse Needed {GB}), the G1 Ellerslie Sires’ Produce S. winner Good Faith (NZ) (Straight Trike {USA}), who produced the G3 McNeil S. winner Tully Dane (Danehill {USA}).

Riccarton, Listed New Zealand Bloodstock Canterbury Belle, $50,000, 1200m

Race summary

Matchmaker (NZ) (Makfi {GB}) bounced back to her best with a powerful late run to claim top honours and a first black-type success.

A debut winner before finishing runner-up in her only other appearance, the filly settled toward the tail of the field before lengthening stride impressively for Tina Comignaghi.

Laced With Gold (NZ) (Showcasing {GB}) raced behind the leading pack and finished off well for second with Stella Creek (NZ) (Per Incanto {USA}) third.

Pedigree notes

Bred by Inglewood Stud who remains in the ownership, Matchmaker is a daughter of Love Somebody (Fastnet Rock), whose three foals to race have all been successful.

She is a half-sister to the 11-time winner and stakes performer Shaolin Soldier (Exceed And Excel) and their dam is the G2 Stan Fox S. winner Dynamic Love (Brave Warrior).

Her half-sister Key Bar Nights (Anabaa {USA}) won the Listed Sir Douglas Wadey S. and produced Barbed (Canny Lad), who was twice successful at Listed level.

International racing wrap

3 min read

Simply Ravishing continues fairytale run in Alcibiades

Born the year after her More Than Ready (USA) dam was purchased for just US$500, Simply Ravishing (USA) (Laoban {USA}) scored a Grade 1 victory on her third start in the G1 Darley Alcibiades at Keeneland on Friday.

Making her first two starts on the turf, Simply Ravishing proved to be just as effective on the dirt when racing over 1700 metres. Taking the lead early on, the daughter of freshman sire Laoban (USA) never looked back. She crossed the wire 6.25l ahead of stablemate Crazy Beautiful (USA) (Liam’s Map {USA}) to stay undefeated in three runs.

“I felt like I had a lot of horse all the way. When we came to the straight, she just took off. She did it pretty easy, like normal. Like nothing. It was amazing. She’s a very good filly,” said jockey Luis Saez.

Purchased for US$50,000 last year, Simply Ravishing is the second foal out of Four Wishes (USA), who is out of a half-sister to stakes winner and producer Valid Affect (USA) (Valid Appeal {USA}). The extended family includes G1 Hong Hong Cup winner Pride (Fr) (Peintre Celebre {USA}), whose foals include multiple Group stakes winner and one time Chris Waller trainee One Foot In Heaven (Ire) (Fastnet Rock).

Harper’s First Ride secures Graded stakes win in Pimlico Special

Making his second career Graded stakes win in the G1 Pimlico Special S., Harpers First Ride (USA) (Paynter {USA}) made the most of it with a 2l victory in the race.

Scoring one for the home team, the Maryland-based gelding traded the lead with Owendale (USA) (Into Mischief {USA}) throughout the 1900 metre race before putting him away in the stretch. The gelding pulled away in the closing stage to win by 2l for his second straight stakes victory.

The first winner for his dam Polyester (USA) (Tiz Wonderful {USA}), the gelding bred 3 x 4 to Cee’s Tizzy comes from the family of G3 JC Tibbie S. winner Spirit Bird (NZ) (Savabeel). That mare had her second foal in October, a colt by Shooting To Win after foaling a colt by Manhattan Rain in 2019.

That mare’s dam, a granddaughter of Harpers First Ride’s second dam is currently in foal to Capitalist.

Zaffy’s Pride newest stakes winner for Pride Of Dubai

Breaking her maiden last out at Dundalk, Zaffy’s Pride (Ire) was stretched out to 1400 metres for the Listed Irish Stallion Farms EBF Star Appeal S. on Friday night and scored an easy win for Pride Of Dubai.

Racing over the synthetics at Dundalk in Ireland she was asked for her best in the final two furlongs and held Magnanimous (Ire) (Mehmas {Ire}) by 1.25l at the line.

The filly is the ninth winner and third stakes winner for Pride Of Dubai in the Northern Hemisphere. She is out of stakes placed Zaafran (GB) (Singspiel {GB}) who is a full sister to Listed winner Zayn Zen (GB), the dam of stakes winner Ennaadd (GB) (King’s Best {USA}).

International racing preview: Lonchamp

8 min read

A packed Sunday card at Parislongchamp kicks off with the 2-year-olds and ends the stakes action with a 1400 metre Group 1 event.

Field of connected juveniles lines up in Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere

Coolmore Australia’s Magna Grecia (Ire) sees his 2-year-old Group 1-placed half-brother St Marks Basilica (Fr) (Siyouni {Ire}) look to get a Group 1 victory in the G1 Qatar Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere to kick off Sunday’s card. The pair are two of the four winners for their Group 3-winning dam Cabaret (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}), one of three stakes winners for stakes placed Witch Of Fife (USA) (Lear Fan {USA}).

Permanent Australian resident Power (GB) sees Law Of Indices (Ire) line up here after winning the G2 Railway S. earlier this year. Also fourth in the G1 Phoenix S. Law Of Indices is out of Exceed And Excel’s three-time winner Sampers and from the family of Australian Group 3 winner and resident Red Cardinal (Ire) (Montjeu {Ire}).

Group 3 winner Cairn Gorm (GB) (Bated Breath {GB}) is a grandson of Not Before Time, whose descendants have won stakes all over the world. Included in that group is G2 Crystal Mile winner Chief Ironside (GB) (Lawman {Fr}), who is in training with Kris Lees and won a trial on Friday after finishing second in the Listed Scone Cup last season with Showcasing’s (GB) New Zealand Group 2-placed Our Intrigue (NZ) also under Cairn Gorm’s second dam.

Our Candidate’s (Ire) (Camelot {GB}) half-sister Libertine (Ire) (Dark Angel {Ire}) takes on the boys in this race. Libertine won her first two starts before finishing fourth by only 2l behind the winner in a Group 3 last out. Her half-brother is in training with Kris Lees and last finished third behind Mugatoo (Ire) (Henrythenavigator {USA}) in January.

Fillies line up in Prix Marcel Boussac

The fillies take their spot in the G1 Qatar Prix Marcel Boussac - Criterium des Pouliches in the second race on the card with the field including Harajuku (Ire) (Deep Impact {Jpn}). That Group 3-placed filly is a half-sister to a stakes winner and out of a full sister to classic winner Nightime (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}), whose runners include four-time Group 1 winner Ghaiyyath (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}). Another half sister is Mermaid Island (Ire) (Mujadil {USA}), who was imported to Australia in 2009. The dam of Listed winner Ondina (Manhattan Rain) and Holy Cow (Teofilo {Ire}) Mermaid Island was most recently sold for $18,000 at last year’s Magic Millions National Broodmare Sale.

Shuttle stallion Territories (Ire) sends out two-time winner Rougir here. The filly out of listed placed Summer Moon (Fr) (Elusive City {USA}). The filly hails from the extended family of multiple classic winners and is one of two winners from two to race out of her dam.

Following Palomba (Ire) (Lope De Vega {Ire}) on Saturday, G1 Melbourne Cup winner Americain (USA) (Dynaformer {USA}) sees half-sister Australienne’s (Ire) (Monsun {Ger}) send out another daughter daughter Tasmania (Fr) (Zoffany {Ire}). Second by a neck on debut, Tasmania broke her maiden a week and a half ago convincingly enough to take her shot here.

Fifteen contest Arc

The G1 Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe has attracted a field of 15 on the heavy ground with Persian King (Ire) (Kingman {GB}) the lone runner for Godolphin, who owns the colt with Ballymore Thoroughbreds. It was just announced that Persian King will be standing at Haras d’Etreham in 2021 with SF Bloodstock also included in the new ownership group. Persian King is out of a three-quarter sister to Group 1 winner Planteur (Ire) (Danehill Dancer {Ire}), who is also a half-sister to Listed Ballarat Cup winner Pilote d’Essai (GB) (Oasis Dream {GB}),

Full brothers Japan (GB) (Galileo {Ire}) and Mogul (GB) line up in this race for Ballydoyle with Masaaki Matsushima also joining Coolmore in Japan’s ownership. The pair have intimate connections to Australia racing with Listed Ipswich Cup winner Maurus (GB) (Medicean {GB}) and G3 JRA Cup third Sir Isaac Newton (GB) (Galileo {Ire}) among their siblings.

Brilliant stayer Stradivarius (Ire) (Sea The Stars {Ire}) has been preparing for this run all campaign with two of his four starts at the Arc distance and lines up against stablemate Enable (GB) (Nathaniel {Ire}) here. Stradivarius comes upon his stamina honestly with his dam out of a half-sister to the granddam of G1 Melbourne Cup winner Protectionist (Ger) (Monsun {Ger}) with Australian stakes-placed runner Soviet Courage (Ire) (Dutch Art {GB}) also under his second dam.

Lining up for her fourth consecutive Arc, Enable is looking for her third victory on Sunday. One of three stakes horses for stakes winning dam Concentric (GB) (Sadler’s Wells {GB}), Enable’s dam is also a half-sister to the dam of two-time Arc runner up Flintshire (GB) (Dansili {GB}).

This year’s G1 German Derby winner In Swoop (Ire) (Adlerflug {Ger}) looks to improve the immediate family of his New Zealand Group 3 winning half-sister Igraine (Ger) (Galileo {Ire}). Visiting Fastnet Rock last season, Igraine foaled a filly in Australia on August 29. This is also the family of G2 Peter Young second Illo (Ger) (Tertullian {USA}), who was exported from Australia to China in 2016.

G1 Epsom Derby winner Serpentine (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) looks to pull another upset in the Arc against his elders on Sunday. One of five stakes winners for G1 Epsom Oaks second Remember When (Ire) (Danehill Dancer {Ire}), the colt is also a full brother to Australian winner Yulong Captain (Ire), who is in training with Tom Dabernig and Ben Hayes.

Mares take stage in Prix de l’Opera

The race after the Arc sees a field of 15 fillies and mares line up for the G1 Prix de l’Opera Longines with Grand Glory (GB) (Olympic Glory {Ire}) weaning the No. 1 saddle towel. Third in the G1 Prix de Diane, Grand Glory comes from the family of G1 VRC Oaks winner Arapaho Miss (Danehill Dancer {Ire}), her Oaks-winning daughter Miami Bound (NZ) (Reliable Man {GB}), and Group 3 winner Declarationofheart (Declaration Of War {USA}).

Third last out in the G1 Matron S., Fancy Blue (Ire) (Deep Impact {Jpn}) looks to win her third Group 1 of the year here. She has close connections to Australia with siblings Casterton (Ire) (Fastnet Rock) and Fastnet Cyclone (Ire) (Fastnet Rock) both in Australia and her dam a half-sister to High Chaparral (Ire) with G2 Gold Cup winner Hunting Horn (Ire) (Camelot {GB}) out of another half-sister.

A Royal Ascot Group 1 winner, Alpine Star (Ire) (Sea The Moon {Ger}) looks to put two second place finishes behind her in this race. The filly’s dam Alpha Lupi (Ire) (Rahy {USA}) is a half-sister to the dam of the Chris Waller-trained Captain Cook (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}), who has won multiple Australian stakes. Alpine Star is a great-granddaughter of bluehen Misque (USA) (Nureyev {USA}), with Arrowfield shuttle stallion Real Steel (Jpn) also descending from that mare.

Beat Le Bon brother lines up in Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp

The shortest race on the card, the sprinters are looking to blitz over 1000 metres at Longchamp on Sunday in the G1 Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp Longines. Wooded (Ire) (Wootton Bassett {GB}) leads the charge with the No. 1 blanket and hopes to be even faster than full brother Beat Le Bon, who finished sixth behind Kolding (NZ) (Ocean Park {NZ}) in the Golden Eagle last year during a trip to Australia.

Multiple stakes winner Sestilio Jet (Fr) (French Fifteen {Fr}) is the only stakes winner for dam Hideaway Girl (GB) (Fasliyev {USA}), who is a half-sister to G3 Queen’s Cup winner Motivado (GB) (Motivator {GB}). Imported to Australia in 2012, the gelding ran his last race in 2016.

Prix de la Foret brings stakes to a close

The final stakes race of the weekend on Longchamp’s card, the G1 Qatar Prix de la Foret over 1400 metres attracted 11 entries. Accamation’s (GB) son Pretreville (Fr) is the only stakes winner for dam Pegase Hurry (USA) (Fusaichi Pegasus {USA}) but comes from a family that includes Australian stakes winners Akatau (Teofilo {Ire}), Born To Rock (Fastnet Rock) and Prettyhappyaboutit (Magnus) with his third dam’s daughter Call Me Pretty (USA) (Peaks And Valleys {USA}) imported to Australia in 2004.

Toronado (Ire) is represented in this race by Toro Strike (USA), who is the first foal to race out of American Grade 3 winner and Grade 1-placed Scarlet Strike (USA) (Smart Strike {Can}). That mare is a half-sister to Grade 1 winner Tara’s Tango (USA) (Unbridled’s Song {USA}), whose Tapit (USA) colt recently topped the Keeneland September Sale when bringing US$2 million (AU$).

Fastnet Rock’s One Master (GB) lost by a heartbreaking nose last time out and looks to get back to her winning ways here. The 6-year-old mare is already a duel Group 1 winner and is one of five winners out of Enticing (Ire) (Pivotal {GB}). Enticing’s Group 2-winning dam is a half-sister to the dam of Group 1 winner Rivet Delite (Ire) (Fastnet Rock) and his half-brother Group 3 winner Alexander Pope (Ire) (Danehill Dancer {Ire}) with those under One Master’s third dam also including G1 Turnbull S. winner December Draw (Ire) (Medecis {GB}).

Foal Showcase

1 min read

To have your foal featured, send a landscape-oriented image to olivia@tdnausnz.com.au

Brave Smash (Jpn) x Haraka (filly) foaled at Glastonury Stud

Lord Kanaloa (Jpn) x Or Fin (colt) at Willow Park Stud | Image courtesy of Lisa Richards

More Than Ready (USA) x Bewildering (filly) at Vinery Stud

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The first Southern Hemisphere foals by US Triple Crown winner Justify

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Daily News Wrap

Libertini stakes claim

Libertini (I Am Invincible) looks to have guaranteed herself a spot in the $15 million The TAB Everest field after upstaging Classique Legend (Not A Single Doubt) and Nature Strip (Nicconi) in the G2 Premiere S. at Randwick.

The Anthony Cummings-trained mare was an easy winner under rider Regan Bayliss and will now be hot property for the richest sprint race in the world.

Libertini

"She just has to go home eat up and do well and back it up in two weeks’ time," trainer Anthony Cummings said.

Classique Legend finished second ahead of Deprive (Denman) with Nature Strip a battling fourth and he has now gone from a $3.50 Everest favourite to $8 with Classique Legend and Gytrash (Lope De Vega {Ire}) equal top picks at $5. Libertini has come in from $34 into $6 despite not being confirmed for a slot.

Kolding far too good

Kolding (NZ) (Ocean Park {NZ}) has earned a return to Group 1 company following his success in the G2 Hill S.

Trainer Chris Waller will now send him straight into the G1 Cox Plate after his dominant win at Randwick.

“He will go to the Cox Plate. He deserves to. He doesn't like Caulfield, but let's hope he likes Moonee Valley,” he said.

Kolding produced an undeniable finish in the straight under jockey James McDonald to have 2l in Avilius (GB) (Pivotal {GB}) at the post with Fierce Imact (Jpn) coming on for third.

Persan in Cup

Persan (Pierro) has won his way into the G1 Melbourne Cup after claiming the G3 The Bart Cummings at Flemington.

"He's been an amazing horse to do what he has done. I told the boss (Ciaron Maher) a month ago I felt he had the form to win a race of this nature," Eustace said.

Persan joined the Eustace and Maher stable earlier this year and has won six of his 10 starts and finished second on three occasions and third once.

The stable now has three starters in the Melbourne Cup as they already have Etah James (NZ) (Raise The Flag {USA}) and imported galloper Sir Dragonet (Ire) (Camelot {GB}) qualified.

"He came to us a nervous horse and we had to build his confidence up and build up his condition, which we did at our Ballarat stables," Eustace said.

Kah gets Cup ride

Trainer Charlie Fellowes has confirmed Jamie Kah as the rider of Prince Of Arran (GB) (Shirocco {Ger}), when he makes his third appearance in the G1 Melbourne Cup.

Fellowes had been on the hunt for a jockey after Michael Walker decided to partner the G3 Sandown Henry II S. winner Dashing Willoughby (GB) (Nathaniel {Ire}) in the Flemington feature.

Jamie Kah

Walker guided Prince Of Arran into third place in the 2018 Cup and they were runners-up last year.

“Jamie Kah will ride Prince Of Arran in the G1 Caulfield Cup and the G1 Melbourne Cup. She’s a brilliant jockey and I think her riding style will suit the horse,” Fellowes said. “I am really excited that she has agreed to take the ride.”

Internationals arrive

A flight containing 29 high-class international horses touched down at Melbourne’s Tullamarine Airport on Friday night heralding the official start of the overseas raid on the spring carnival.

Having been acquired by local connections, 13 of the 29 will remain on Australian soil after competing across the carnival, while the remaining 16 will embark on a hit-and-run mission in a bid to add another chapter to the success story of international raiders on Victoria’s marquee races.

The 29 gallopers boarded the flight after completing their mandatory two-week quarantine period at facilities in the United Kingdom and Ireland, and will spend the next fortnight at the TAB International Horse Centre in Werribee.

“It’s very pleasing to see such a high-quality group of horses arrive here in Melbourne to contest some of Australia’s greatest races,” Paul Bloodworth, Racing Victoria’s General Manager – International and Racing Operations, said.

Among them is Aidan O’Brien’s Anthony Van Dyck (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}), arguably the most high-profile horse he has sent to Australian shores with a G1 English Derby win on his CV.

Jockey escapes serious injury

Jockey Melissa Julius escaped serious injury after a terrible fall at The Valley on Friday night that resulted in the race being declared void.

Victorian Jockey’s Association chief executive Matt Hyland released a statement on Saturday morning that said scans had cleared Julius of any broken bones.

"Doctors at RM (Royal Melbourne) hospital advise that scans have cleared Mel Julius of any fractures."

Julius fell from Obscura (Street Cry {Ire}) soon after the field in the Webb H. jumped and was knocked unconscious.

Munce runner scratched

Queensland Racing stewards ordered the scratching of a Chris Munce-trained runner as they opened an inquiry into the trainer.

Lady Brahmos (Smart Missile) was withdrawn from the Gallopers Sports Club H. on Saturday following a without notice inspection at Munce's stable.

The inspectors allegedly discovered that Lady Brahmos had been recently administered an injection, which is against the rules a day out from a race.

Blanket Guineas finish

The judge has his work cut out at Hastings on Saturday as he perused the photo finish to one of the day’s feature events, the G2 Dundeel at Arrowfield Hawke’s Bay Guineas.

Five horses went to the line with less than 0.5l between them and when the dust settled it was the Murray Baker and Andrew Forsman-trained Aegon (NZ) (Sacred Falls {NZ}) who got in the deciding stride.

Aegon (NZ) (far left, white cap)

“I just didn’t think he would be able to do that here with the way the track has been playing,” Forsman said.

“To make up the ground in the last 200 metres, by a horse that is still maturing, speaks volumes for the ability he does have. He’s got a ton of ability and to see him do that is a bit of a buzz. I think he’s pretty smart.”

Dream result

Follow Your Dreams (NZ) (Contributer {Ire}) justified co-trainer Kenny Rae’s confidence at Riccarton with success in the South Island’s first juvenile event of the season.

The colt raced outside the leaders and drew clear in the run home to credit his Mapperley Stud-based sire with his first New Zealand winner.

“I was a bit nervous because I’ve got a high opinion of him and I thought he could win,” said Rae, who is involved in the ownership group.

Bred by Kevin Hickman, Follow Your Dreams was purchased out of Valachi Downs’ draft by Rae at New Zealand Bloodstock’s National Yearling Sale for NZ$24,000. He is from the family of the G1 Flight S. winner Danglissa (Danzero).

Looking Ahead - October 4

Bet365 Kyneton, Race 1, 1pm AEST, bet365 Top Tote Plus Plate, $35,000, 1212m

Crown Of Melbourne (Snitzel) looms as a serious winning hope on debut for the successful partnership of Lindsay Park and jockey Daniel Stackhouse. The well-bred colt has a handy barrier and a strong pedigree to back his claims at the first time of asking.

Crown Of Melbourne as a yearling

He was bought out of Lime Country Thoroughbreds’ draft for $170,000 at the Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale and is a son of the unraced Starcraft (NZ) mare Star Of Sydney, who is a half-sister to the G1 ATC Sires’ Produce S. winner and sire Invader and the G2 Jockey Club Sprint winner Not Listenin’tome (Dylan Thomas {Ire}). Their dam Flame Of Sydney (Encosta De Lago) won the Listed Desirable S. and was a multiple Group placegetter.

Bet365 Kyneton, Race 4, 2.45pm AEST, bet365 Bet Odds Drift Protector Plate, $35,000, 1469m

Lady Kermadec (Kermadec {NZ}) was unplaced on debut and showed the benefit of that race day experience at Wodonga where she sat on the pace and boxed on strongly to finish runner-up. Lachlan King takes the reins again and from a handy barrier they look a top combination.

Kermadec (NZ), sire of Lady Kermadec | Standing at Darley

The filly is a half-sister to Shalmaneser (Teofilo {Ire}), who was successful on six occasions and was twice placed at Group 3 level. They are out of the unraced Lady Nikolay (Stravinsky {USA}) and she is a daughter of the G1 Australasian Oaks winner Arboretum (Woodman {USA}).

Bet365 Kyneton, Race 5, 3.20pm AEST, Iron Jack Plate, $35,000, 1875m

A $150,000 purchase at the Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale where he was offered by Glastonbury Farms, Rousseau (So You Think {NZ}) has been around the mark in all of his starts and was a close fifth when last seen at Geelong. The Chris Waller-trained colt has drawn well and gives the impression he will appreciate this step up in trip.

Rousseau as a yearling

Rousseau is out of Solar Rock (Encosta De Lago), who won two races, and she is a daughter of Cirque De Soleil (USA) who is a stakes-performed sister to the multiple Group 1 winner and champion sire Fastnet Rock. It is also the family of the Listed Singapore Derby winner Sun Marshal (Sepoy).

2YO & 3YO Winners by Sire

NSW Race Results

Royal Randwick (Metropolitan)

Newcastle (Provincial)