She's Extreme's dam to be offered at Inglis Chairman's Sale

Written by

Trent Masenhelder

4 min read

Keysbrook's (So Secret) owners are keen to test the market with their quality broodmare, who has produced one of the best juveniles in the land.

Cover image courtesy of Ashlea Brennan

The dam of Group 1-winning filly She’s Extreme (Extreme Choice) will go under the hammer at next month’s Inglis Chairman’s Sale at Riverside Stables.

Keysbrook is a multiple stakes-placegetter that has already stamped herself as a quality broodmare, with her second foal to race, She’s Extreme, one of Australia’s best juveniles.

Keysbrook | Image courtesy of Inglis Digital

She’s Extreme - a $275,000 Inglis Easter Yearling Sale graduate - raced six times during her autumn campaign, winning the G3 Magic Night S. and G1 Champagne S., and running second in the G1 Sires’ Produce S.

Randwick Bloodstock’s (FBAA) Brett Howard, who will offer Keysbrook as part of the Glenesk Thoroughbreds draft, told TDN AusNZ, the mare will be sold for the right price.

“We bought her for $60,000 via the Online Sale last year and we’re happy to put her back through the ring and see what the market’s offering," he said.

Brett Howard | Image courtesy of Bronwen Healy

“We do think it’s a good opportunity for someone.

“If she was in foal, obviously she would make a lot more (money), and it’s not ideal to be selling empty mares, we understand that; but by the same token the buyer gets to start with a clean slate in about two or three months’ time; they can go to whatever stallion they want.

“She’s a relatively young mare, so, barring bad luck, she’s still got hopefully five or six foals ahead of her.”

“She’s (Keysbrook) a relatively young mare, so, barring bad luck, she’s still got hopefully five or six foals ahead of her.” - Brett Howard

Talented family

Keysbrook’s first foal – and only other foal to race – is Ruru (So You Think {NZ}) - a $250,000 purchase at the Inglis Easter Yearling Sale that won four races across three Australian States.

She had a Lean Mean Machine filly in 2020, which sold to Dan Morton for $150,000 at this year’s Magic Millions Perth Yearling Sale.

Howard said Keysbrook boasts plenty of attributes and is sure she will attract a lot of attention.

Ruru winning at Lakeside

“If you own a good broodmare, you want them to put well above average physical specimens on the ground,” he said.

“Keysbrook has had three foals go to the sales and they’ve all been nice types.”

Howard said the decision to put Keysbrook on the market wasn’t an easy one.

“We thought about getting her in foal early this coming season, but obviously with the advent of She’s Extreme, we thought we would test the market and see what’s on offer,” Howard said.

Trained by Anthony Cummings, She’s Extreme is by the hottest sire in the country, Newgate Farm’s Extreme Choice, who will stand for $275,000 (inc GST) this season.

Extreme Choice | Standing at Newgate Farm

The filly has already amassed $715,600 for connections and looks destined for a fruitful spring campaign.

“She showed she’s a legitimate Group 1 horse in the Sires’ and then in the Champagne,” Howard said.

She’s Extreme’s grandam, Interlagos (GB) (Quest For Fame {GB}), is the dam of Listed winner Brasileira (Commands), while her great-grandam, Road To Glory (Provideo {Ire}), produced the Listed winner Le Mans (Quest For Fame {GB}).

She's Extreme, winner of the G1 Champagne S. | Image courtesy of Ashlea Brennan

“There’s no reason to suggest she couldn’t get out to 2000 metres; Keysbrook was placed in a WA Derby and WA Oaks,” said Howard.

“Is she gets 2000 metres, she gets it. If she doesn’t there’s still plenty of good options for her, like the G1 Empire Rose S., which is 1600 metres.”

A quality catalogue

Joining Keysbrook at the Chairman’s Sale is two-time Group 1 placegetter Harmony Rose (Glass Harmonium {Ire}), Listed placegetter, Alinghi’s (Encosta De Lago) sister Perfect Persuasion (Encosta De Lago) (in foal to Extreme Choice), as well as Group-placed mare Don’ttelltheboss (Street Boss {USA}).

Inglis' Riverside auditorium

A share in the all-conquering Extreme Choice also features in the 2022 Inglis Chairman’s Sale catalogue.

The strong list of supplementary entries joins an already stunning lineup of elite race fillies, mares and breeding prospects in the Chairman’s Sale catalogue that includes:

- 55 fillies or mares that are black-type performers or producers;

- 24 mares that are totally free of Danehill (USA) blood;

- An abundance of high-class race fillies and mares, including dual Group 1 victress Shout The Bar (Not A Single Doubt) and Group 1 winner Daysee Doom (Domesday);

- A rare and unique offering from arguably the world’s leading breeding operation Juddmonte International, who will offer three outstanding prospects;

- Mares carrying pregnancies to highly sought-after stallions including Extreme Choice, I Am Invincible, Snitzel, Exceed And Excel, Written Tycoon and Fastnet Rock.

The Sale begins at 4.30pm AEST on Friday, May 6.

She's Extreme

Keysbrook

Inglis

Chairman's Sale

Broodmare

Group 1 for sprint star Wellington 'the tip of the iceberg'

Written by

Trent Masenhelder

7 min read

All Too Hard gelding Wellington became just the fourth horse to claim back-to-back wins in the G1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize at Sha Tin on Sunday, and according to his trainer Richard Gibson, the 5-year-old can dominate the local scene for a long time.

Cover image courtesy of the Hong Kong Jockey Club

The Richard Gibson-trained Wellington scored a brilliant victory in Sunday’s G1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize at Sha Tin, and in doing so, the gelded son of Vinery Stud’s stallion, All Too Hard, joined an elite club.

Wellington became just the fourth horse to triumph in the prestigious sprint race in consecutive years, joining Mr Vitality (Snippets) (1995/96), Silent Witness (El Moxie {USA}) (2004/05) and Lucky Nine (Dubawi {Ire}) (2013/14), while three others - Fairy King Prawn (Danehill {USA}) (1999 and 2001), Sacred Kingdom (Encosta De Lago) (2008 and 2010) and Dim Sum (Kyllachy {GB}) (2009 and 2011) - are also dual Chairman’s Sprint Prize winners.

Wellington has now won 10 races and three Group 1s, for prizemoney totalling HK$40,056,190 (AU$7.1 million).

And while Wellington’s trainer Richard Gibson wouldn’t be drawn on where his star sprinter sits among the jurisdiction’s all-time greats, he did tell TDN AusNZ that his deeds are quite outstanding.

“I’m not really fussed with all that sort of stuff (where he sits), the only thing that’s important is his race record and he’s got a very impressive one,” said Gibson.

“Try and win 10 races in Hong Kong; you need a darn good horse to do that. To win 10 races in Hong Kong is an exceptionally difficult thing to do.

“Try and win 10 races in Hong Kong; you need a darn good horse to do that. To win 10 races in Hong Kong is an exceptionally difficult thing to do.” - Richard Gibson

“He is one of the best sprinters in the world. It’s difficult to win these big Group 1 races back-to-back.”

Plenty of upside

Wellington is a 5-year-old and has been to the races just 16 times.

Gibson is adamant he can remain at the top of his game for a long time.

“The owners all the way through have played it well with this horse. He’s had good breaks across his racing career; we didn’t race him too much in his first season,” the Englishman explained.

Richard Gibson | Image courtesy of the HKJC

“We stopped at the right time during his second season, and even last year, he had a long break after winning this race.

“When you have a horse this good, the skill is trying to keep them in top form for as long as you can.

“There’s a very lucrative, excellent sprint program in Hong Kong.”

Gibson was supremely bullish heading into the race, claiming Wellington was absolutely spot on.

In fact, he admitted the race couldn’t come quick enough.

“He ticked every box. It was expected and he delivered,” Gibson said.

“This horse had been ready for three weeks; it was just a joke.

“He was ready to rock up; he’s just in the zone at the moment and it would have taken tempo or track conditions to have beaten him.”

In addition to training star pair Akeed Mofeed (GB) and Giant Treasure (USA) (Mizzen Mast {USA}), Gibson, who moved to Hong Kong in 2011, guided Gold-Fun (Ire) (Le Vie Dei Colori {GB}) to Chairman’s Sprint Prize glory in 2015.

Again, he wasn’t interested comparing Wellington to Gold-Fun, but he did concede the former 'is faster'.

Gold-Fun (Ire), winner of the G1 Chairman's Sprint Prize | Image courtesy of the HKJC

Where it all began

Out of Mihiri (More Than Ready {USA}), who won four starts, was Group 3-placed and banked $146,450 in prizemoney, Wellington was bred by Kia Ora, David Paradise and Steve McCann.

Initially passed in at the 2018 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale, he was eventually bought for $70,000 by Lauriston Thoroughbred Farm, who intended to on-sell him at a Breeze Up Sale.

He had a short preparation with trainer John McArdle at Mornington.

“John and (jockey) Jamie (Mott) both thought he was above average,” Lauriston Thoroughbred Farm’s, James O’Brien, told TDN AusNZ.

Wellington as a yearling | Image courtesy of Magic Millions

“We gave him the one trial on the synthetic and he won quite easily. Jeff Gordon, a bloodstock agent, somehow spotted the jump-out and made an offer.

“I was a little bit reluctant to sell, but when the offer is like that based on a jump-out, you take those opportunities when they arise.

“It’s nice to be a part of the story and it’s great to see what he is doing in Hong Kong.”

Little sister looks the goods

Mihiri’s grandam, Solo De Lune (Ire) (Law Society {USA}), has thrown two Group 1 winners, Cerulean Sky (Ire) (Darshaan {GB}) and Moonstone (GB) (Dalakhani {Ire}). Cerulean Sky has produced G2 Doncaster Cup hero Honolulu (Ire) (Montjeu {Ire}), while Moonstone is the dam of Nevis (Ire) (Dansili {GB}), who won the Listed Bendigo Golden Mile in 2018.

After missing to Deep Field, Mihiri gave birth to a filly by All Too Hard last spring, and, according to Shane Wright, Kia Ora Stud’s Bloodstock and Breeding Manager, she is a lovely type.

Mihiri when racing | Image courtesy of Sportpix

“The cross seems to be working really, really well,” Wright told TDN AusNZ.

“We’ve got the full sister to Wellington here at the farm and she’s a top filly, we’re very happy with how she is.

“At this stage, the plan is to retain her. You can’t buy fillies that are full sisters to international superstars, which she is, so we’re definitely keeping her.

“At this stage, the plan is to retain her (weanling sister to Wellington). You can’t buy fillies that are full sisters to international superstars, which she is, so we’re definitely keeping her.” - Shane Wright

“We’ll be retaining her to race and we’ll look at a breeding program with her down the track.”

Wright was effusive in his praise of Wellington and said the gelding has provided the Kia Ora Stud team a huge thrill.

“The last year has been huge for Wellington; his performances have been very, very special to watch and we couldn’t be happier with him,” he explained.

Shane Wright | Image courtesy of Inglis

Wellington has a brother, Hardness, a 4-year-old trained by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott. The gelding has had two starts for two placings. Bred by Kia Ora Stud and offered by Bhima Thoroughbreds, he was bought by Blueblood Thoroughbreds for $55,000 at the 2019 Inglis Classic Sale.

Mihiri is also the dam of Turnstar, a colt by Star Turn, who was bred and offered by Kia Ora Stud at the 2020 Inglis Easter Yearling Sale Round 2 and purchased by Hawkes Racing for $50,000. He was later bought by Darwin-based trainer Phil Cole at the 2021 Inglis November (Late) Online Sale for $27,500. Turnstar has had 13 starts for two wins and four minor placings.

Hope for half-sister

A year later, Mihiri produced a filly by Star Witness. Bred by Kia Ora Stud with Steve McCann and David Paradise, she was offered by Bhima Thoroughbreds at the 2021 Inglis Classic Yearling Sale, where she was sold to Tricolours Racing for $85,000. She has been named Rotorua and the unraced 2-year-old is in the care of Mark Newnham at Randwick.

“She’s had a couple of small preparations, she went shin sore at her last prep, but she showed considerable talent. Mark (Newnham) was really happy with her,” James Moss, Director at Tricolours Racing, told TDN AusNZ.

Rotorua as a yearling | Image courtesy of Inglis

“She’s currently in her second week of pre-training out at Hanover Lodge, and she goes super, she’s a really nice filly.

“She’s probably the type of filly that was never going to be super early; we never wanted to rush her. It was a fantastic performance by Wellington.

“When I bought the filly, he’d won a couple of races over there, but he certainly hadn’t gone onto stakes grade. It was quite exciting to follow him through.

“To come out and win the Chairman’s Sprint two years in a row; he’d have to be odds-on to be the Champion Sprinter in Hong Kong this year; he was unlucky to miss the award last year.

All Too Hard | Standing at Vinery Stud

“Having a half-sister to a champion reads very well on paper and hopefully she’s got half as much talent.”

Wellington is one of four Group 1 winners for All Too Hard (Forbidden Love, Behemoth and Hard Too Think are the others), who will once again stand at Vinery Stud this upcoming season at a fee of $38,500 (inc GST).

Wellington

Hong Kong

Sha Tin

Vinery Kia Ora

All Too Hard

Toronado continuing to leave mark on VOBIS Day

Written by

Kristen Manning

6 min read

There have been two feature winners on VOBIS Day in four years for Toronado (Ire), for the same stable in the same colours. Kristen Manning shares the story of Chartres, winner of the VOBIS Sires' Guineas.

The annual VOBIS Day hosted by Caulfield has proven a hit with trainers, owners and breeders and some of its biggest fans are those with attachments to Swettenham Stud's Toronado.

For he has really made his mark on this raceday - in 2019 the inaugural running of the The Showdown won by the talented Prince Of Sussex.

A member of Toronado's debut crop, Prince Of Sussex was one of the six yearlings shortlisted by keen racehorse owner Paul Dugan as he made his way to the 2018 Inglis Melbourne Premier Yearling Sale.

Toronado (Ire) | Standing at Swettenham Stud

"I really didn't know much about Toronado at the time," Dugan admitted, "but I knew that his dam Il Diamante was well regarded by Peter Moody."

Upon inspecting Prince Of Sussex Dugan was convinced he was the horse for him, so much so that he upped his initial budget of $80,000 to the $145,000 it took to secure him.

Proving to be a great advertisement for VOBIS, Prince Of Sussex at just his second outing easily won the VOBIS Gold Rush at Bendigo before heading to Caulfield where he recorded a dominant Showdown victory.

Lucky Express, formally Prince Of Sussex | Image courtesy of the HKJC

It would be the last time he would race in Australia, his owners accepting a lucrative offer from Hong Kong, the horse now racing as Lucky Express - winning two races at Sha Tin and finishing second at Group 3 level.

The origins of Chartres

Upon selling Prince Of Sussex, Dugan decided to reinvest in the Toronado breed, conducting his research online and coming across a withdrawn lot at the Inglis Melbourne Premier. A colt who not only looked a fair bit like Prince Of Sussex but who had the sort of pedigree Dugan liked, his dam The French House (Dylan Thomas {Ire}) possessing more talent than her record suggested.

"I watched her races and saw that she was pretty unlucky in a couple of Listed contests. I rang Sam Matthews and he mentioned that the breeders were keen to stay involved and he put me on to Kristen Manning."

In the meantime, The French House's son had been impressing Collingrove's Daniel Brash. "He wasn't the biggest colt," he recalled. "But he had everything in the right place and had great movement. And he was such a pleasure to do anything with."

"...he (Chartres) had everything in the right place and had great movement. And he was such a pleasure to do anything with." - Daniel Brash

Matt Laurie was not quite as impressed early days with the horse christened Chartres (named by owner Dan Taylor - Chartres being the twin city of Chichester, capital of Sussex) a little slow to mature, not showing a great deal in the initial stages of his training.

In fact, at his first jump-out he didn't get too far, coming out of the gates and quickly pulling himself up. Fortunately he was a rapid improver and at just his second start he broke his maiden at Sale in convincing fashion.

Chartres returned in the spring to record an explosive 3.5l victory on Heavy going on Cranbourne Cup Day, subsequently running a nice race without the best of luck in the G2 Sandown Guineas. He was then given time with the VOBIS Sires' Guineas always the aim.

The French House with Chartres as a foal | Image courtesy of Kristen Manning

Things did not go to plan en route, after a game first-up G3 Zeditave S. third Chartres headed to Sydney to make the most of the rain-affected tracks only to have a foot abscess burst on race morning. It would be four weeks till his next run, a solid Listed Bendigo Guineas fourth - a race which had him primed for his target.

The big dance

It was a nervous group of owners who huddled in the mounting yard before the race, the author of this article proudly being one of those.

Nicely ridden from a tricky gate by Ethan Brown, Chartres made his run from before the turn in the 1600-metre contest - hitting the lead with 250 metres to go, holding off all challengers to win by 0.75l.

Making it two feature winners on this day in four years for Toronado - for the same stable in the same colours. And running an eye-catching fourth behind Chartres was the promising Toronado gelding Don Diego.

Also represented by two European winners on Saturday, Toronado is a stallion in form with 16 winners in the first three weeks of April.

"He is having a great run," said Swettenham Stud's Adam Sangster who recently paid a visit to France to catch up with Toronado at Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani's Haras de Bouquetot.

Chartres, winner of the VOBIS Sires' Guineas

"We had discussions regarding Toronado moving to Victoria permanently," Sangster said, "And they went well. We are looking forward to welcoming him back to Swettenham this spring and will be announcing his service fee within the next 10 days."

Sangster has enjoyed watching Toronado reward his supporters with results both at the sales and on the track - at the recent Inglis Easter Sale his three yearlings selling for an average of $510,000 off a $27,500 (inc GST) service fee.

"He has always been popular here and there is strong demand for his sons in Hong Kong. And this year for the first time we had stallion syndicates looking at his colts."

"He (Toronado) has always been popular here and there is strong demand for his sons in Hong Kong. And this year for the first time we had stallion syndicates looking at his colts." - Adam Sangster

Sangster described stallion success as 'a long, slow burn', recalling that, "My father used to say that it can be 10 years before you really know if the risks you took standing a stallion were going to pay off."

Fortunately it has been a little bit less than that in regards to Toronado though Sangster did take some early financial hits, Chartres being one of those.

Adam Sangster with Khalifa Al Attiya, racing manager for Sheikh Joaan | Image courtesy of Kristen Manning

"The French House was the first foal share we'd done with Toronado and whilst we made a loss initially we were in it for the long haul and when Kristen said he was a great match for her mare I knew she would've done her research."

AUTHOR'S NOTES: as a great fan of line-breeding, I was excited when it was announced that Toronado was making his way to Victoria - the match with The French House resulting in the duplication of five influential mares within seven generations.

Watching the pedigree leap from planning to the reality of a nice horse is always a rewarding process and it has been an especially exciting one this time with my co-owners of The French House all being first-time breeders. Witnessing their joy on Saturday was certainly something to cherish!

Toronado

Chartres

Swettenham Stud

Adam Sangster

The French House

Prince Of Sussex

Lucky Express

Paul Dugan

Zahra brings out the Best in Lindsay Park colt

4 min read

Written by Jackson Frantz

Tijuana’s (American Pharoah {USA}) front-running Listed ANZAC Day S. victory at Flemington on Monday saw another smart Best Bloodstock-owned juvenile colt unveiled this season.

The Jarred Magnabosco-owned operation, who hold a share in R. Listed Inglis Nursery hero El Padrino (Street Boss {USA}) and have had Jamarra (Duporth) place behind Jacquinot (Rubick) and Lofty Strike (Snitzel) in their silks revelled in Tijuana’s 1400-metre triumph with spirited post-race scenes in the stands and mounting yard.

Trained by Ben and JD Hayes, Tijuana was first into stride and made almost every post a winner under Mark Zahra in the $160,000 juvenile feature to score by 0.75l from the fast-finishing Leon and Troy Corstens-trained debutant Alcedo (Smart Missile) with a 1l gap back to Tarzino (NZ) filly Foreign Raider.

JD and Ben Hayes | Image courtesy of Bronwen Healy

“It’s a big thrill for Lindsay Park and Jarred Magnabasco from Best Bloodstock, it’s a very good result for him and he’s a guy whose got his colours coming through and building up,” Ben Hayes said.

“He’s had really good success and to buy a horse like this and to win a stakes race at just his second start is very exciting.”

Hayes said Tijuana had taken immense improvement from his debut victory at Pakenham last month and that he could be destined for bigger and better things during the upcoming Queensland winter carnival.

“He’s a horse that has kept furnishing and is well put together, I was impressed with his manners because first-up he was a bit colty, whereas today he knew what he was doing and had the race won a long way from home,” Hayes said.

“He’s (Tijuana) a horse that has kept furnishing and is well put together, I was impressed with his manners because first-up he was a bit colty, whereas today he knew what he was doing and had the race won a long way from home.” - Ben Hayes

“And that (win) was really exciting, so I will have to have a good think (about where he heads next), there’s the Queensland options but I’ll have a chat to the ownership group and the team at home then have a good think about it.”

Mark Zahra, who had friends in Tijuana's ownership group, was equally as impressed by the victory, saying he knew the race was won and run entering the final furlong.

“He’s a really nice colt,” Zahra said. “I watched his (debut) replay and it’s hard for a 2-year-old to win their first start at Pakenham as it’s a testing course and I loved the way he sprinted up the hill and won without being touched, so I was pretty confident going into today.

Connections of Tijuana after winning the ANZAC Day S.

“I’ve got a few mates in there, (the ownership) so I was thinking they were waiting on sending the film back to a couple other mates at home, but I just said to them that at the 200-metre mark it was get the cue sort of stuff.”

Tijuana’s victory marked the third Australian stakes success for Coolmore’s second-season shuttle stallion American Pharaoh (USA), who has recorded 21 winners this season.

Bred by Eureka Cambooya Thoroughbreds and Black Soil Bloodstock, Tijuana was a $100,000 2021 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale purchase by Best Bloodstock and Lindsay Park Racing from the draft of Eureka Stud.

Tijuana as a yearling | Image courtesy of Magic Millions

He is the sixth foal out of the three-time Singapore-winning Volksraad (GB) mare Mexican Rose (NZ), who was the nations Champion 2YO & 3YO Filly in 2009 and 2010, thus making him a half-brother to the Listed-placed Mexican Tycoon (NZ) (O’Reilly {NZ}).

Mexican Rose herself is a half-sister to the G3 Canterbury Breeders' S.-placed Latin Rose (NZ) (Mastercraftsman {Ire}). A host of Northern Hemisphere stakes performers feature in the third generation of this family, including the American Group 1-winning Mill Native (USA).

Tijuana

ANZAC Day S.

American Pharoah

Lindsay Park Racing

Ben Hayes

Mark Zahra

Black type results: Flemington

2 min read

Listed ANZAC Day S., $160,000, 1400m

Winning in smart fashion at his Pakenham debut, Tijuana (American Pharoah {USA}) was all the more impressive racing away to a big win here.

Bred by Eureka Cambooya Thoroughbreds and Black Soil Bloodstock, he was purchased for $100,000 by Best Bloodstock and Lindsay Park Racing at the 2021 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale.

The 27th stakes winner for his American Triple Crown-winning, Coolmore Stud-based sire, Tijuana is one of the four winners produced by the 10-time winner Mexican Rose (NZ) (Volksraad {GB}) who was crowned Singapore's Champion 2-Year-Old and 3-Year-Old Filly with her three wins at Listed level.

Sadly Tijuana is her final foal as she and her Spirit Of Boom (Sequalo) colt died in the spring of 2020. Her other foals include the stakes-placed Mexican Tycoon (NZ) (O'Reilly {NZ}) and the metropolitan winners Sacred Sham (NZ) (O'Reilly {NZ}), Nucleonic (NZ) (Burgundy {NZ}) and Mexican Gal (Encosta De Lago).

Hailing from the family of the G1 Arlington Mill S. winner Mill Native (USA) (Exclusive Native {USA}), Tijuana carries three strains of Secretariat (USA) (Bold Ruler {USA}) and one of his half-brother Sir Gaylord (USA) (Turn-To {Ire}). And he is a descendant of Turn-To's (Ire) (Royal Charger {GB}) influential grandam Lavendula II (Fr) (Pharos {GB}).

Listed VRC St Leger, $300,000, 2800m

A classic Damien Oliver ride saw the short-priced favourite Alegron (Teofilo {Ire}) in the winner's circle in this historic Anzac Day Classic.

A homebred for Godolphin, he is the 104th stakes winner for his former shuttling sire. He is the first foal for the very good race mare Alegria (Medaglia D'Oro {USA}), winner of three metropolitan races and four-times placed at Group level.

A daughter of the G3 Vanity S. winner Pure Joy (Fusaichi Pegasus {USA}), she was served last spring by Ghaiyaath (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}) having foaled an Epaulette (Commands) filly in September.

Alegron can count amongst his relations the stakes winners Fravashi (Falbrav {Ire}), Russian Caravan (Dehere {USA}), Felizmaster (Stratum), Custard (Lonhro), Serene Majesty (Fastnet Rock) and Curdled (All Too Hard).

Flemington

Black type results

This is paid content, please contact advertising@tdnausnz.com.au for more information.

Job Board

2 min read

Zhongli Thoroughbreds - Stud Manager

Zhongli Thoroughbreds, a breeding and racing operation in the Southern Highlands, NSW are seeking a permanent full-time staff member to fill the role of STUD MANAGER.

Previous experience in a similar position would be an advantage.

The successful applicant, will be required to have the following hands-on experience and responsibilities which include, but are not limited to:

- Competency in all facets of the running of a thoroughbred breeding farm.

- Ability to manage a small team of staff including training new staff and timely reporting to a professional standard.

- Excellent communication (written and verbal), time management, attention to detail and organisational skills.

- Hire, manage and teach staff.

- Ability to liaise with trainers, sales companies, clients and other industry participants including attending sales events.

- Previous yearling preparation and sales knowledge is essential.

- Care and handling of foals, weanlings, yearlings, broodmares and spellers.

- Strong horse handling skills as well as being confident in handling foals, weanlings and yearlings with care.

- Logistics and transport of horses (confident in driving a car and horse float).

- Capability to work closely and liaise with veterinarians, farriers and management.

- Foaling experience is imperative.

- Comprehensive knowledge of Ardex.

- Good work ethic, reliable and can work as part of a team or alone.

An attractive remuneration package which includes private house on farm and the use of a company vehicle will be available for the successful applicant.

For further information on the role, please forward a copy of your CV to Yvonne Wu at yvonne.wu@zhonglithoroughbreds.com.au for a confidential discussion or call Johnno Scott on 0439 513 324. Please note that all applications and conversations will be dealt with in the strictest confidence.

Looking Ahead - April 26

Sponsored by

4 min read

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.

On Tuesday, we will begin the day at Mildura with Halo Racing Services homebred knocking on the door of victory before turning our attention to a filly from the family of Sepoy and Bivouac in the following event.

We will wrap up the day at Nowra with a close relation to Fastnet Rock.

Mildura, Race 2, 1.30pm AEST, Mildura Plumbing Plus Mdn Plate, $35,000, 1000m

Senegalia, 3-year-old filly (Street Boss {USA} x Catechuchu {Catbird {USA}})

The Ciaron Maher and David Eustace-trained Senegalia should prove extremely hard to beat here third-up off the back of two placings at Kyneton and Kilmore respectively.

Harry Coffey, who will be required to overcome the far outside draw, barrier seven, steps back into the saddle after partnering Senegalia to a third on debut at Moe last September.

Bred and retained by Halo Racing Services, Senegalia is out of the G3 WATC Champion Fillies S.-winning, G1 VRC Age Classic S. fourth placegetter Catechuchu who has produced four winners from five runners.

Street Boss (USA) | Standing at Darley

Catechuchu’s dam Noble Fleur (Dahar {USA}) is a half-sister to stakes winner Toy Image (NZ) (Noble Bijou {USA}), who herself is the third dam of G1 Sydney Cup third placegetter Spirit Of Westbury (NZ) (Sir Tristram {Ire}).

The Listed-winning Rainbiel (Toronado {Ire}) also features in the second generation of this pedigree.

Mildura, Race 3, 2pm AEST, Nick Burke Plumbing Mdn Plate, $35,000, 1400m

Royal Affair, 3-year-old filly (Foxwedge x Miss Chard {Al Samar})

The John Salanitri-trained Royal Affair can break her maiden status here after making good ground late to finish 1.9l fifth at Echuca on resumption. In-form apprentice Alana Kelly will take the reins from a sticky gate, barrier 11 of 11.

A $62,000 2020 Inglis Premier Yearling Sale purchase by Hirsch Racing from the draft of Diamond Park, Royal Affair is out of the unraced Miss Chard, making her a half-sister to the R. Listed MRC Inglis 2YO Premier winner Lessyd (Statue Of Liberty {USA}).

Royal Affair as a yearling | Image courtesy of Inglis

Miss Chard herself is a sister to the G3 Carbine Club S.-winning, G1 Australian Guineas fourth placegetter Mr Chard and the stakes-placed Sahara Siren.

The Listed-winning, Group 2-placed Cool Trent (Nediym) features in the second generation of this family while G1 Golden Slipper S. heros Sepoy and Canny Lad, along with dual Group 1 winner Bivouac, feature in third generation of this family.

Nowra, Race 5, 3.20pm AEST, Sussex Inlet RSL Club Mdn Plate, $24,000, 1100m

Dona Antonia, 4-year-old mare (Shooting To Win x Calusa {High Chaparral {Ire}})

The Annabel Neasham-trained Dona Antonia can account for her rivals in what looks to be a weak maiden contest after being beaten 4l on debut when sent around as favourite over 900 metres.

Shaun Guymer has been booked and will partner Dona Antonia from barrier seven of nine.

Bred and retained by R L Lavender, Dona Antonia is the first foal out of the winning High Chaparral (Ire) mare Calusa, who was purchased for $400,000 at the 2013 Inglis Easter Yearling Sale.

Shooting To Win

Calusa’s dam Sarasota (Danehill {USA}) is a sister to Coolmore stallion Fastnet Rock and and the Listed-placed Cirque Du Soleil, who is is the grandam of the Signapore stakes winner Han Xin (Sepoy).

The G2 VRC Sires’ Produce S.-winning, G1 Australian Guineas-placed Lightsaber (Zoustar) also features in the second generation of this family.

Looking Back

On Sunday, our first selection Miss Passion (Redoute’s Choice) ran second on debut while our second selection Bezique (Spirit Of Boom) took out her maiden on debut at the Sunshine Coast.

Our final selection, Lately (NZ) (Vadamos {Fr}), could only manage ninth position on debut in the fifth event at the Sunshine Coast.

Looking Ahead

Looking Back

This is paid content, please contact advertising@tdnausnz.com.au for more information.

2022 Announced Stallion Fees

Sponsored by

1 min read

Cover image courtesy of Bronwen Healy

To have your stallion included in the fees list table email lucy@tdnausnz.com.au

NEW TO STUD

* relocated

Australian-based stallions including GST. New Zealand-based stallions plus GST.


ACROBAT	Fastnet Rock	Coolmore, NSW	$13,500	-
Admire Mars	Daiwa Major	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$22,000	$22,000
Alabama Express	Redoute's Choice	Yulong Farm, VIC	$22,000	$24,750
All Too Hard	Casino Prince	Vinery Stud, NSW	$38,500	$33,000
Anders	Not A Single Doubt	Widden Stud, NSW	$16,500	$16,500
Ardrossan	Redoute's Choice	Waikato Stud, NZ	NZ$6,000 + GST	NZ$3,000 + GST
Astern	Medaglia D'Oro	Darley Kelvinside, NSW	$11,000	$16,500
Banquo	Written Tycoon	Waikato Stud, NZ	NZ$4,000 + GST	NZ$4,000 + GST
BARBARIC	I Am Invincible	Lyndhurst Stud, QLD	$8,800	-
Bivouac	Exceed And Excel	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$66,000	$66,000
Blue Point	Shamardal	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$44,000	$44,000
Brazen Beau	I Am Invincibe	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$44,000	$44,000
Brutal	O'Reilly	Newgate Farm, NSW	$22,000	$27,500
Capitalist	Written Tycoon	Newgate Farm, NSW	$99,000	$99,000
Casino Prince	Flying Spur	Vinery Stud, NSW	$5,500	$5,500
Castelvecchio	Dundeel	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$27,500	$33,000
Cool Aza Beel	Savabeel	Newhaven Park, NSW	$16,500	$16,500
Cosmic Force	Deep Field	Newgate Farm, NSW	$11,000	$16,500
Deep Field	Northern Meteor	Newgate Farm, NSW	$88,000	$88,000
Denman	Lonhro	Twin Hills Stud, NSW	$8,800	$8,800
Dissident	Sebring	Riverdene Stud, NSW	$6,600	$6,600
Doubtland	Not A Single Doubt	Widden, VIC	$16,500	$16,500
Dundeel	High Chaparral	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$66,000	$66,000
Earthlight	Shamardal	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$22,000	$22,000
Exceedance	Exceed And Excel	Vinery Stud, NSW	$33,000	$16,500
Exceed And Excel	Danehill	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$132,000	$132,000
Extreme Choice	Not A Single Doubt	Newgate Farm, NSW	$275,000	Private
Fiorente	Monsun	Widden, VIC	$9,900	$11,000
Flying Artie	Artie Schiller	Newgate Farm, NSW	$22,000	$33,000
Frosted	Tapit	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$38,500	$44,000
Ghaiyyath	Dubawi	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$27,500	$27,500
Grunt	O'Reilly	Yulong Farm, VIC	$13,750	$13,750
Hallowed Crown	Street Sense	Twin Hills Stud, NSW	$11,000	$11,000
Hanseatic	Street Boss	Rosemont Farm, VIC	$17,600	$17,600
Harry Angel	Dark Angel	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$16,500	$16,500
Headwater	Exceed And Excel	Vinery Stud, NSW	$16,500	$16,500
Impending	Lonhro	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$22,000	$22,000
Kermadec	Teofilo	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$16,500	$11,000
Lonhro	Octagonal	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$55,000	$66,000
Lucky Vega	Lope De Vega	Yulong Farm, VIC	$19,250	$22,000
Magnus	Flying Spur	Widden, VIC	$16,500	$15,400
Maurice	Screen Hero	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$82,500	$44,000
Menari*	Snitzel	Corumbene Stud, NSW	$16,500	$11,000
Microphone	Exceed And Excel	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$33,000	$38,500
Nadeem	Redoute's Choice	Little Avondale Stud, NZ	NZ$4,000 + GST	NZ$4,000 + GST
National Defense	Invincible Spirit	Widden, VIC	$7,700	$9,900
Nicconi	Bianconi	Widden, VIC	$22,000	$27,500
North Pacific	Brazen Beau	Newgate Farm, NSW	$22,000	$22,000
NOVERRE	Savabeel	Waikato Stud, NZ	NZ$10,000 + GST	-
Ocean Park	Thorn Park	Waikato Stud, NZ	NZ$30,000 + GST	NZ$30,000 + GST
Odyssey Moon	Snitzel	Twin Hills Stud, NSW	$4,400	$6,600
Ole Kirk	Written Tycoon	Vinery Stud, NSW	$55,000	$55,000
PALACE PIER	Kingman	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$55,000	-
Pariah	Redoute's Choice	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$16,500	$16,500
Peltzer	So You Think	Twin Hills Stud, NSW	$16,500	$16,500
Per Incanto	Street Cry	Little Avondale Stud, NZ	NZ$50,000 + GST	NZ$25,000 + GST
PINATUBO	Shamardal	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$55,000	-
PORTLAND SKY	Deep Field	Widden Stud, NSW	$27,500	-
Press Statement	Hinchinbrook	Vinery Stud, NSW	$8,800	$13,750
PROFITEER	Capitalist	Newgate Farm, NSW	$16,500	-
Rebel Dane*	California Dane	Widden Stud, NSW	$27,500	$8,800
Russian Camelot	Camelot	Widden, VIC	$22,000	$22,000
Russian Revolution	Snitzel	Newgate Farm, NSW	$71,500	$44,000
Savabeel	Zabeel	Waikato Stud, NZ	Private	NZ$100,000 + GST
Shalaa	Invincible Spirit	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$33,000	$44,000
Shamus Award	Snitzel	Rosemont Farm, VIC	$88,000	$33,000
Showtime	Snitzel	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$11,000	$11,000
Sizzling	Snitzel	Riverdene Stud, NSW	$6,600	$6,600
Smart Missile	Fastnet Rock	Twin Hills Stud, NSW	$16,500	$16,500
Snitzel	Redoute's Choice	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$220,000	$165,000
ST MARK'S BASILICA	Siyouni	Coolmore, NSW	$44,000	-
STANDOUT	Exceed And Excel	Corumbene Stud, NSW	$8,800	-
Star Turn	Star Witness	Vinery Stud, NSW	$27,500	$16,500
Star Witness	Starcraft	Widden, VIC	$14,300	$16,500
STAY INSIDE	Extreme Choice	Newgate Farm, NSW	$77,000	-
Stratum Star	Stratum	Widden Stud, NSW	$5,500	$8,800
Strasbourg	I Am Invincible	Rosemont Farm, VIC	$11,000	$11,000
Street Boss	Street Cry	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$77,000	$55,000
Super One	I Am Invincible	Newhaven Park, NSW	$16,500	$16,500
Super Seth	Dundeel	Waikato Stud, NZ	NZ$35,000 + GST	NZ$35,000 + GST
Supido	Sebring	Widden Stud, NSW	$8,800	$8,800
Tagaloa	Lord Kanaloa	Yulong Farm, VIC	$30,250	$33,000
Tassort	Brazen Beau	Newgate Farm, NSW	$11,000	$11,000
The Autumn Sun	Snitzel	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$66,000	$66,000
THE ODYSSEY	Better Than Ready	Telemon Stud, QLD	$5,500	-
Thronum	Snitzel	Widden, VIC	$7,700	$7,700
TIGER OF MALAY	Extreme Choice	Newgate Farm, NSW	$16,500	-
Time Test	Dubawi	Little Avondale Stud, NZ	NZ$10,000 + GST	NZ$8,500 + GST
Tivaci	High Chaparral	Waikato Stud, NZ	NZ$20,000 + GST	NZ$12,500 + GST
Too Darn Hot	Dubawi	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$44,000	$44,000
Trapeze Artist	Sniztel	Widden Stud, NSW	$55,000	$66,000
Va Pensiero	Stratum	Riverdene Stud, NSW	$2,200	$2,200
VICTOR LUDORUM	Shamardal	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$24,750	-
WILD RULER	Snitzel	Newgate Farm, NSW	$38,500	-
WOODED	Wootton Bassett	Swettenham Stud, VIC	$22,000	-
Written By	Written Tycoon	Widden Stud, NSW	$27,500	$24,750
Written Tycoon	Iglesia	Yulong Farm, VIC	$165,000	$165,000
Xtravagant	Pentire	Newhaven Park, NSW	$27,500	$11,000
Zousain	Zoustar	Widden Stud, NSW	$22,000	$19,800
Zoustar	Northern Meteor	Widden Stud, NSW	$198,000	$154,000

Daily News Wrap

Sponsored by

10 min read

Corumbene Stud returns to standing stallions

Corumbene Stud will stand its own stallions for the first time in more than 20 years.

Group 2 winners Menari and Standout, who were both bred and raced by Corumbene Stud, will cover mares at the Dunedoo-based property in the Upper Hunter Valley.

Having established Corumbene Stud in 1980, George Altomonte has enjoyed a long and successful career in racing and breeding, most notably with 2013 Golden Slipper-winning filly Overreach (Exceed And Excel) and Sebring, who he bred and sold at the 2007 Magic Millions Yearling Sale. Sebring won five of his six starts, including the G1 Golden Slipper S. and G1 Sires’ Produce S., and became a champion sire before his death in 2019.

In the care of top trainer Gerald Ryan, Menari won three of his eight starts, including the G2 Run To The Rose, and was third in the G1 Golden Rose S. He is by the Listed-winning mare Isurava (General Nediym).

1/2

Gallery: Stallions standing at Corumbene Stud in 2022

Menari spent four seasons standing at Newgate Farm, but suffered from fertility issues.

He had a colt by Fadetta (USA) (Rock Hard Ten {USA}) realise $350,000 at this year's Magic Millions Sale on the Gold Coast. Offered on account of Willow Park Stud, the colt was purchased by Bahen Bloodstock.

And, at the same Sale, Corumbene Stud sold a colt from Natalia (Choisir) to the Freedman Brothers for $230,000.

Standout, meanwhile, is a brother of Overreach, by Bahia (Snippets), and his best victory was the G2 Expressway S. for Ryan and Sterling Alexiou. Standout’s grandam, Miss Prospect (Rory’s Jester) is the dam of G1 Blue Diamond hero Reward For Effort, as well as 16-time winner Consular (Royal Academy {USA}).

The most recent stallion to stand at Corumbene Stud was Natski (Ire) way back in 2001.

Menari will stand for a fee of $16,500 (inc GST), while Standout will command $8800 (inc GST).

Alegron salutes in St Leger

Godolphin gelding Alegron (Teofilo {Ire}) showcased his staying prowess when defeating older rivals in the time-honoured Listed VRC St Leger S. at Flemington on Monday.

Donning the Anzac Appeal silks the James Cummings-trained 3-year-old, who came through a third placing behind Hitotsu (Maurice {Jpn}) in the G1 Australian Derby, was given a peach of a ride by Damien Oliver after the Champion hoop settled back and on the rails.

Oliver bided his time on straightening and successfully plotted a path into clear air in the straight before levelling up alongside The Cunning Fox (NZ) (Reliable Man {GB}) and putting the Patrick Payne-trained galloper away comfortably over the final furlong.

Steel Prince back on the board

Steel Prince’s (Ire) (Nathaniel {Ire}) victory at Flemington on Monday marked the 2019 Listed Andrew Ramsden S. hero’s first success since sustaining a serious tendon injury in last year’s G1 Australian Cup.

The Anthony and Sam Freedman-trained gelding, who was conceding 6kgs to the field, showcased his superior stamina and staying ability in the 2600 metre William Newton VC H. to score by 2l under Jye McNeil.

“He deserved that, it’s been a big effort by the whole team and he’s taken a while to come back,” Sam Freedman said.

“Whilst they’re not celebrating as hard as they were a few seasons ago (after winning the 2019 Andrew Ramsden) but it’s still a big thrill and it’s quite emotional.”

Star Patrol sizzles

The penny has dropped for Starspangledbanner gelding Star Patrol after the Clinton McDonald-trained 3-year-old backed up his dominant last-start Pakenham maiden victory with a scintillating 7l success at Flemington on Monday.

Taken forward from a low draw by Brett Prebble, Star Patrol took control of the race at the 400-metre mark before letting down with a strong turn of foot when asked to extend by Prebble.

Savy Sovereign (Savabeel) and Cardinal Gem (Choisir) rounded out the minors in the 1200-metre straight-track dash.

Previously trained by Kacey Fogden and Mark Newnham respectively, Star Patrol was contesting his seventh career start and second since joining McDonald’s Cranbourne-based camp.

Verry Elleegant to race on

Connections of Verry Elleegant (NZ) (Zed {NZ}) have confirmed that the 11-time Group 1-winning heroine will race on into the spring.

The Chris Waller-trained mare's part-owner Brae Sokolski said Verry Elleegant’s ownership group will meet this week to determine whether the 6-year-old heads to France for the G1 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe or remains on home soil for a G1 Melbourne Cup defence.

“At the end of the day, it’s what’s in the best interests of the horse and her legacy, that’s all that matters, not what’s in the best interests of the ownership group. It’s going to be a democratic decision, made by the entire ownership group,” Sokolski told Racing.com.

“It’s a great, vexing problem to have, we’re privileged with having to consider those options. At this stage, I’m still very much deliberating, along with the other owners.”

Bridge's Legend building towards spring

Les Bridge has his sights set on another tilt at The Everest with 2020 victor Classique Legend (Not A Single Doubt).

The Hall of Fame trainer said the Bon Ho-owned gelding is progressing in the right direction after spraining a suspensory ligament when running fifth in last year’s edition of the sprint feature.

Classique Legend

“His last scan was fairly good, so he’s going to come in and go into light work and we’ll see how we go with him to get him ready for The Everest,” Bridge told Racing.com.

“He’ll have the same preparation that he had when he won The Everest (in 2020), which is (G2) The Shorts and the (G2) Premiere (S.). He’ll have those two as lead-up races.”

Home Affairs to trial on Friday

Royal Ascot-bound colt Home Affairs (I Am Invincible) is set to trial at Rosehill on Friday as he prepares for a first-up raid on the G1 Platinum Jubilee S.

The dual Group 1-winning, Coolmore-owned 3-year-old was withdrawn from a trial at Warwick Farm last Friday after being ‘ahead of schedule’.

Home Affairs | Image courtesy of Ashlea Brennan

"The only reason for the withdrawal on Friday was we are a little bit ahead of schedule with the colt," Waller’s assistant trainer, Charlie Duckworth, told Sky Sports Radio

“Chris always plans with that bonus week in hand so that if there is some sort of issue we don’t fall behind. We have had no issue with the colt so we are a week ahead.”

Shalaa lands a double

Shalaa (Ire) opened up a three win buffer on Star Turn after notching his 36th winner for the season via the breakthrough victories of Tidal Impact at Gosford and Irish Raider at Cunnamulla on Monday.

The Damien Lane-trained Tidal Impact, who was having her seventh career start, went home the better of Irish Kisses (Shamus Award) and Ciao Uno (Super One) in her 1100-metre Gosford contest while Irish Raider was able to score at start four for trainer Rebbeca Kerwin.

Shalaa is currently second on the second-season sires' standings by winners, which is led by Newgate Farm stallion Capitalist.

Xravagant day at the office

Young Newhaven Park stallion Xtravagant (NZ) recorded a double on Monday by the way of Xpresso and Vinyl’s maiden victories at Gosford and Kalgoorlie respectively.

The Nathan Doyle-trained Xpresso justified his short-priced quote on resumption when saluting by 3.3l under Lee Magorrian while Vinyl broke through at start number three with a 1.5l success.

Xtravagant has recorded 21 winners for the season thus far.

Dettori and Dancing Brave into HOF

Charismatic international jockey Frankie Dettori and 1980s legend Dancing Brave are the two newest members of the QIPCO British Champions Series Hall of Fame. Dettori, 51, is the third jockey to be inducted after Lester Piggott and Pat Eddery. He has ridden almost 3,300 British winners, third to Piggott and Willie Carson, as well as celebrated major victories in at least 24 countries. The Italian holds the record for scores in the G1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, with six.

Trained by Guy Harwood for the late Prince Khalid Abdullah's Juddmonte operation, Dancing Brave is the sixth horse to enter the Hall of Fame, 36 years after his G1 2000 Guineas victory. “On behalf of Prince Khalid's family, for Dancing Brave to be the second horse owned by him, after Frankel (GB), to be inducted into the QIPCO British Champions Series Hall of Fame is testament to Prince Khalid's passion and vision for the Thoroughbred,” said Douglas Erskine Crum, Chief Executive of Juddmonte.

Saskatoon turns it on

Star Turn gelding Saskatoon brought up the second victory of his career when making his debut for the Richard and Chantelle Jolly camp at Gawler on Monday.

The Seymour Bloodstock-owned 3-year-old, who was previously in the care of Michael, Wayne and John Hawkes, finished the better of Hasslefree (The Factor {USA}) and John Ranger (O’Lohnro) in the 1100 metre BM68.

Star Turn, who will stand at Vinery Stud for $27,500 (inc GST) this upcoming breeding season, is currently third behind Capitalist and Shalaa (Ire) on the second-season sire standings by winners on 33.

Queensland carnival is calling

Talented mare It’s Me (Shamus Award) will step out for the first time since a fast finishing eighth placing in last March’s Listed Bob Hoysted S. at Flemington when she contests this Saturday’s G2 Victory S. at Eagle Farm.

The Grand Syndicates-owned 5-year-old, who has raced twice since sustaining a tendon injury following victory in the 2020 The Kosciuszko, was scratched from last Saturday’s Randwick meeting due to the Heavy track conditions.

“I was speaking to Peter Morey, the big boss of Grand (Syndicates) the other day and he said, ‘if it costs us a whole prep waiting for a Good track, so be it’,” Cavanough told Racenet.

“She needed her first couple of runs back as you’d expect returning off so long on the sidelines but right now, she’s going as well as she goes and it’s a case of the rain leaving us alone.”

Benner excited for spring titles

Johno Benner is excited about the future prospects for promising stayer Titled (Exceed And Excel) despite his galloper failing to win a race in his 3-year-old campaign.

The rangy gelding remains a maiden after 12 starts but has been placed on eight occasions including a third placed performance in G3 Manawatu Classic before finishing strongly to take out second in the G2 Championship S. at Pukekohe.

Tilted | Image courtesy of NZ Racing Desk

“He really is a big, dumb sort who is still learning the game, but the raw potential is clear to see. He has put in two huge runs lately against some good company and I have no doubt he can measure up again in his next campaign,” Benner said.

“I think once he wins a race, he will string them together, as he just needs the penny to drop in that respect.”

Rionach gets it done on debut

Rionach (NZ) (Darci Brahma {NZ}) showed she had inherited her family's ability when she produced a powerful home straight surge to claim victory on debut at Avondale on Monday.

The Daniel and Elias Nakhle-owned and bred juvenile filly is the granddaughter of the Group 2-winning Irish Colleen (NZ) (Shinko King {Ire}), who has left the Group 3-winning, G1 Caulfield Guineas fourth placegetter Crosshaven (Smart Missile) and the New Zealand Group 3 winner Killarney (NZ) (O’Reilly {NZ}).

“She has had a couple of jump-outs at home and is a very sensible filly so we thought she would be okay having a start without a trial under her belt,” Rionach’s co-trainer Dawn Williams said.

“Her brain is in the right place and we would have been happy if she had finished in the first four, so to get a win and take home the Pearl Series bonus is a wonderful result.”

Daily News Wrap

Debutants

1 min read

First-time starters lining up on Tuesday, April 26

2YO & 3YO Winners by Sire

First Season Sire Runners & Results

1 min read

First Season Sires’ Results

Results: Monday, April 25

First Season Sires’ Runners

Runners: Tuesday, April 26

No first seasons sires' runners

First Season Sire Results

First Season Sire Runners

Second Season Sire Runners & Results

Second Season Sires’ Results

Results: Monday, April 25

Second Season Sires’ Runners

Runners: Tuesday, April 26

Second Season Sire Results

Second Season Sire Runners

NSW Race Results