New Year's Day summary: Waitak storms to Railway success

Written by

Jesse Dart and Keely Mckitterick

9 min read

The New Year has started with a bang for racing fans. Pukehoke Park held an outstanding card of racing, including the G1 Railway S., which was taken out by Waitak (NZ) (Proisir), ridden by Warren Kennedy, who rode seven winners. The action extended across Tasmania, with Melbourne and Perth holding key events.

Cover image courtesy of Kenton Wright (Race Images)

Race-Day Recap

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The first Group 1 of 2024 - The Railway S. was taken out by the Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott-trained Waitak (NZ) (Proisir), who was partnered by an in-form Warren Kennedy, at Pukekohe Park.

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In a pulsating finish to the G2 Perth Cup on Monday at Ascot, Casino Seventeen (Casino Prince) clung on from a rampaging Be Optimistic (Blackfriars) to take out the $1 million feature

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The Anthony and Sam Freedman-trained Glentaneous (Ire) (Gleneagles {Ire}) made it three on the bounce with a comfortable victory in the Listed Bagot H. at Flemington.

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A consistent son of Zoustar, Habana, from the Lance Noble stable claimed his most significant success to date with a victory in the G2 Rich Hill Mile at Pukekohe Park.

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It was textbook William Pike at Ascot on Monday in the G3 La Trice S., lifting Yonga Lass (Universal Ruler) in the concluding stages to record her biggest career win to date

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Class prevailed in the King Of The Mountain slot race at Toowoomba on Monday, with Rothfire (Rothesay) securing a gritty victory under the urgings of Ben Thompson.

Waitak and Kennedy to the fore in Railway

Despite being campaigned as a stayer contesting races such as the G1 New Zealand Derby and the G1 Queensland Derby the Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott-trained Waitak (NZ) (Proisir) may have found his calling as a sprinter after an electric performance in the G1 Railway S. on Monday at Pukekohe Park’s New Year’s Day meeting.

Sent out a $12 chance, Waitak showed an enormous turn of foot to defeat Bonny Lass (NZ) (Super Easy {NZ}) by 1.3l, with Mercurial (NZ) (Burgundy {NZ}) in third. The race favourites Babylon Berlin (All Too Hard) and Sacred Satono (NZ) (Satono Aladdin {Jpn}) finished seventh and eighth respectively.

The meeting also capped a superb start to 2024 for Warren Kennedy, who dominated the Pukekohe Park card. Kennedy rode Grande Gallo (NZ) (Belardo {Ire}) to victory in the first and Karman Line (NZ) (Myboycharlie {Ire}) in the seventh race for the O’Sullivan and Scott stable and would add the G2 Eclipse S. aboard Bellatrix Star (Star Witness) for Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson, the Peter and Dawn Williams-trained Pour The Wine (NZ) (Telperion) in Race 4, Kennedy also rode two feature winners for Lance Noble, firstly About Time (NZ) (American Pharoah {USA}) in the G2 Sir Patrick Hogan S. and Habana (Zoustar) in the G2 Rich Hill Mile.

Waitak is a homebred for C W Devine and was winning for the fourth time, having claimed the Listed Trevor and Corallie Eagle Memorial S. earlier in his career. He is the sixth individual Group 1 winner for his Champion Sire Proisir, who stands at Rich Hill Stud.

Proisir | Standing at Rich Hill Stud

The 4-year-old gelding is from Shocking mare Repo Bay (NZ), who won twice from 1400 to 1600 metres. Waitak’s fourth dam is the brilliant Desirable (Without Fear {Fr}). A victress of 10 races including the G1 Newmarket H., the G1 Sires’ Produce S. and the G1 Lightning S.

Zoustar’s Habana wins Rich Hill Mile

The Lance Noble-trained Habana, a son of Widden Stud’s Zoustar, found his best form to win the G2 Rich Hill Mile at Pukekohe Park on Monday.

Habana, winning for the eighth time in 16 starts, was ridden by Warren Kennedy who was riding his seventh winner on the card, having claimed the G1 Railway S. one race earlier. The 5-year-old gelding was able to get the upper hand narrowly on Saint Bathans (Maurice {Jpn}), while El Vencedor (NZ) (Shocking) finished in third.

The G2 Rich Hill Mile is the most significant success for Habana to date, he had earlier claimed the Listed Fulton Family Mile and was placed in the G3 Easter H. and the G3 Sweynesse S.

Habana’s dam, the Mossman mare Jeter, won four races and was fourth in the G1 Schweppes Oaks and the G2 AV Kewney. She is a half-sister to the G2 Gilgai S. victor Fast ‘N’ Famous. The son of Zoustar was purchased by Lyndhurst Farm for $160,000 from Rothwell Park at the Magic Millions National Weanling Sale and was offered by his purchaser at the 2020 New Zealand Bloodstock Ready to Run Sale. However, Habana failed to meet his NZ$200,000 reserve.

Warren Kennedy records his seventh victory of the day aboard Habana in the G2 Rich Hill Mile at Pukekohe | Image courtesy of Kenton Wright (Race Images)

Cup dream complete as Casino Seventeen wins thrilling Perth Cup

After a preparation of strong runs with only placings to show for it, Casino Seventeen (Casino Prince) turned the tables on Be Optimistic (Blackfriars) in front of an electric crowd at Ascot in the G2 Perth Cup on Monday.

The 6-year-old gelding, who has been prepared by no less than five trainers during his 35-start career, has taken a liking to the Western Australian racing scene, an affinity that culminated in a brave performance to take out the $1 million Group 2 handicap.

Champion jockey William Pike made his move before the corner, presenting his mount into clear air as Zoumon (Zoustar) ran out of petrol, and the complexion of the race shifted in a matter of strides. Pike looked to have the race in his keeping with 250 metres to go, when Clint Johnston-Porter and Be Optimistic emerged to make one last challenge. The pair got close, too close for the judge to decide without photo finish equipment, but it was in vain, with Casino Seventeen adding his name to an illustrious Perth Cup honour roll.

He is one of 57 stakes winners for veteran stallion Casino Prince, out of Tikal (Denman), a mare who has produced three winners from four foals to race. His success in the Perth Cup propels him past the $1 million mark in prizemoney.

William Pike returns to scale aboard Casino Seventeen after winning the G2 Perth Cup at Ascot | Image courtesy of Western Racepix

Demolish (Rich Enuff) stuck on gamely for third, ahead of Numerian (Ire) (Holy Roman Emperor {Ire}), who boxed on soundly after working early to gain a position on the speed.

Form runner wins Bagot

It was the in form Glentaneous (Ire) (Gleneagles {Ire}) who took out Monday’s Listed Bagot H. (2800 metres) at Flemington.

The Anthony and Sam Freedman-trained Australian Bloodstock-owned import has found fine form since breaking his Australian maiden at Sandown-Lakeside in December and followed that effort up with a victory at Moonee Valley before the Bagot H. success made it three on the trot for Glentaneous.

The 6-year-old gelded son of Gleneagles (Ire), ridden by Damian Lane, defeated the G3 Geelong Cup winner Amade (Ire) (Casamento {Ire}) and Grand Pierro (Pierro), who claimed the Ararat Cup.

Connections indicated Glentaneous may chase a Cup victory of his own with the G2 Adelaide Cup in March looking a viable option.

Connections of Glentaneous (Ire) after winning the Listed Bagot H. at Flemington | Image courtesy of Racing Photos

Spontaneous (Ire), a daughter of Sinndar (Ire), is the dam of Glentaneous. She won once in Ireland and has produced Makram (Ire) (Make Believe {GB}), who has also found success in Australia having placed in the G2 Herbert Power S. Spontaneous is related to some highly talented gallopers, among them Youmzain (Ire), a victor of the G1 Grand Prix de Saint Cloud and the G1 Köln Preis von Europa and multiple Group 1 placegetter including thrice being runner-up in the G1 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. The G1 Lockinge S. victor Creachadoir (Ire) is also closely related to the Bagot H. winner.

Pike vigour lifts Yonga Lass to La Trice

The rapid rise of Yonga Lass (Universal Ruler) reached a new high on Monday at Ascot, with the progressive mare proving too strong in the concluding stages of the G3 La Trice S.

Sent out second-favourite behind last-start Listed Starstruck Classic winner Rusty Dreams (Universal Ruler), jockey William Pike was able to find a position midfield, with her main rival lengths in arrears. With 200 metres to go, Pike got to work, claiming Forever Dreaming (Snippetson) and Fine Touch (Maschino) to record a narrow victory.

Now a winner of six races from 12 starts, Yonga Lass has collected over $200,000 in prizemoney across her career, under the care of leading trainers Grant and Alana Williams and formerly Todd Harvey, who’s family are involved in the ownership, along with her breeder Ian O’Connor.

Connections of Yonga Lass after winning the G3 La Trice Classic at Ascot | Image courtesy of Western Racepix

She is one of 22 stakes winners for veteran stallion Universal Ruler, out of Fastnet Rock mare Give The Signal, who has produced two winners from three to run. She boasts a relation to the legendary Mahogany (Last Tycoon), with the Harvey family undoubtedly hoping she can develop into as versatile of a performer as he was.

Rothfire overcomes wide barrier to be crowned king

Jumping from an awkward barrier proved no obstacle for the “Thriller From Chinchilla”, with Rothfire (Rothesay) justifying odds-on favouritism to take out the King Of The Mountain slot race at Toowoomba.

Ridden with urgency by Ben Thompson to find a prominent position without being trapped wide on the tight-turning circuit, Rothfire lumped his 60-kilogram impost across the field to sit outside the leader, taking over early in the straight and resisting challenges from Steady Ready (Better Than Ready) and Master Jamie (Poet’s Voice {GB}) to record his first win since April 2023.

Rothfire is the sole Group 1 winner for his stallion Rothesay, having won the G1 JJ Atkins S. as a 2-year-old in 2020. Further victorious in four races contested at Group 2 level, the Robert Heathcote-trained gelding has won 10 races from 28 starts.

He has achieved enormous success for his connections, with his win on Monday taking him to just shy of $3 million in total prizemoney. He is out of an unraced Hussonet (USA) mare, Huss On Fire (NZ), who has produced six foals to race, of which five have won.

Glentaneous

Waitak

Proisir

Habana

Zoustar

New Year's Day summary continued: Bellatrix Star strikes in Eclipse

Written by

Jesse Dart and Keely Mckitterick

8 min read

Outside of the G1 Railway S., the support card had plenty of action. Among the highlights was the Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson-trained Bellatrix Star (Star Witness), who stamped herself as an exciting prospect with a determined victory in the G2 Eclipse S.

Cover image courtesy of Kenton Wright (Race Images)

Race-Day Recap

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It was a competitive finish to Monday’s G2 Eclipse S. at Pukekohe Park on New Year’s Day. The hot-favourite Move To Strike (I Am Invincible) was upstaged by his stablemate Bellatrix Star (Star Witness).

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The Bruce Wallace and Grant Cooksley-trained Trust In You (NZ) (Sweynesse) opened his stakes account with a dominant win in the G3 Queen Elizabeth II Cup at Pukekohe Park.

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Orchestral (NZ) (Savabeel), a NZ$625,000 2022 New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Yearling Sale graduate, put her hand up for a tilt at the Karaka Millions meeting later in January with an impressive success at Pukekohe Park on Monday.

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Midtown Boss (Street Boss {USA}) made an immediate impact for his new trainer Matt Laurie, at Flemington’s Monday New Year’s Day meeting.

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Exciting 2-year-old filly Sinful Living (Safeguard) made it successive wins on Monday at Ascot, absorbing early pressure to record another success under visiting jockey Rachel King.

Star upstages Strike

Precocious talent Bellatrix Star (Star Witness) was the first juvenile to win in Australasia for 2024 at Wanganui. Bellatrix Star showed she’s no one-trick pony with a determined success in the G2 Eclipse S. on Monday at Pukekohe Park’s New Year’s Day meeting to become the first stakes winner of 2024.

The Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson-trained 2-year-old daughter of Star Witness was sent out an outsider behind her stablemate Move To Strike (I Am Invincible), who was an impressive victor on debut at Te Rapa, while the last start Listed Challenge S. winner Velocious (Written Tycoon) also lined up. It would be those three who fought out the finish.

Bellatrix Star, ridden by Warren Kennedy, tracked Move To Strike into the straight as Velocious, ridden by Sam Spratt, attempted to put a margin on the Te Akau Racing-trained pair. However, despite Velocious’ game effort, Move To Strike continued to gnaw into her margin as Bellatrix Star ranged up on the outside to beat them both.

The filly is the 24th overall stakes winner and fifth Group 2 winner for Star Witness, who stands at Widden Stud Victoria. Bellatrix Star is the third foal from the Exceed And Excel mare Alana’s Party, who is also the dam of the three-time winner Vinolass (Supido).

Alana’s Party is closely related to Petition (Foxwedge), a dual winner and placegetter in the G3 Geoffrey Bellmaine S. and the Listed Adelaide Guineas and the Listed Twilight Glow S.

Bellatrix Star as a yearling | Image courtesy of New Zealand Bloodstock

Bellatrix Star was an NZ$80,000 purchase by David Ellis CNZM (BAFNZ) and Fortuna Racing from the draft of Phoenix Park at the 2023 New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Yearling Sale. Phoenix Park will offer Lot 563, a Royal Meeting (Ire), half-brother to Bellatrix Star, at the 2024 New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Yearling Sale.

Click here to view Lot 563

Kennedy was in fine form riding the following two winners, including doubling his stakes dose. He partnered the Peter and Dawn Williams-rained Pour The Wine (NZ) (Teleperion) in Race 4 before About Time (NZ) (American Pharoah {USA}) saluted for the Lance Noble stable in the G2 Sir Patrick Hogan S.

The well-related 3-year-old filly is a half-sister to the multiple Group 1 placegetter Young Werther (NZ) (Tavistock {NZ}) and the stakes performer Romantic Lady (NZ) (Power {GB}).

About Time’s dam Romantic Time (Fastnet Rock) has a Savabeel half-brother (Lot 358) heading to the 2024 New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Yearling Sale as part of the Cambridge Stud draft.

Click here to view Lot 358

Bargain buy takes out Queen Elizabeth II Cup

Trust In You (NZ) (Sweynesse) has proven to be an astute NZ$26,000 purchase by Wallace Thoroughbreds. The Bruce Wallace and Grant Cooksley-trained 5-year-old gelding was a dominant victor of the G3 Queen Elizabeth II Cup at Pukekohe Park.

Ridden by Jason Collett, Trust In You was too good for Khan Hunter (NZ) (Mongolian Khan) and Mary Louise (NZ) (The Bold One {NZ}) to score the Group 3 feature.

A graduate of Novara Park’s draft at the 2020 New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Yearling Sale, Trust In You is from the Shinko King (Ire) mare Shinko Bay (NZ). She won six races, including a Listed event, and has produced the seven-time winner Donna Anne Billy (NZ) (Tavistock {NZ}), who has been placed in the G3 Waikato Contractors Sprint H. Furthermore, Trust In You is related to the G1 Auckland Cup victor Ocean Billy (NZ) (Ocean Park {NZ}).

Trust In You is the seventh stakes winner for Sweynesse, who plys his trade at Novara Park.

Orchestral to chase Karaka Millions?

The progressive Roger James and Robert Wellwood-trained Orchestral (NZ) (Savabeel) may have bigger targets on the horizon after the 3-year-old saluted at Pukekohe Park.

Orchestral, ridden by Craig Grylls, put a 2.5l margin between herself and the second-placed Lupo Solitario (NZ) (Satono Aladdin {Jpn}) at the finish, while a further 3.3l away in third was Mars (NZ) (Zoustar).

Speaking to local media after the success, co-star Wellwood indicated Orchestral might chase glory at the upcoming Karaka Millions meeting, “She was very good. I don’t think the inside of the track is very good, but we had no choice but to ride her there as she drew one. Seeing her get out would have been nice, but she raced more professionally today (Monday) and was very convincing.

“I think she’s very special. Physically, Orchestral has so much to come, so I’d think next year we will see the best of her, but we’ll sit down with the owners and look at the next steps. There are one-and-a-half-million reasons to come to Karaka later in January, but I think she could also be an Oaks filly.”

“I think she’s (Orchestral) very special... I’d think next year we will see the best of her... There are one-and-a-half-million reasons to come to Karaka later in January, but I think she could also be an Oaks filly.” - Robert Wellwood

Orchestral’s dam Symphonic (NZ) (O’Reilly {NZ}) won four races. She was placed in the G3 Cuddle S. She descends from a page full of black type; among her relatives is the dual Group 1 winner Atishu (NZ) (Savabeel) and the Group 1 winners Daffodil (NZ) (No Excuse Needed {GB}) and Aegon (NZ) (Sacred Falls {NZ}).

Haunui Farm will present a full brother (Lot 464) to Orchestral at the 2024 New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Yearling Sale. The filly graduated from the Haunui Farm draft at the 2022 sale, where she was sold for NZ$625,000 to Roger James and Robert Wellwood.

Click here to view Lot 464

Laurie’s gelding the boss at Flemington

Mornington-based trainer Matt Laurie looks to have been given a promising horse for the future, with 4-year-old gelding Midtown Boss (Street Boss {USA}) a dominant winner of the opening race at Flemington on Monday.

Formerly trained by Mark and Levi Kavanagh at Flemington, Midtown Boss made his debut for Laurie at his old track and was sent out an even-money favourite in public markets, jockey Daniel Stackhouse kept the lightly raced commodity behind the pacemakers, roaring away from his rivals in the final 200 metres to record a 2.5l victory.

Last seen as a colt back in June, Laurie told Racing.com they are, “targeting these straight races,” for his preparation.

Midtown Boss is the second foal from Midtown, a placed daughter of Manhattan Rain and a half-sister to Madame Andree (War Emblem {USA}), who is the dam of the brilliantly fast Anders. The son of Not A Single Doubt, who stands at Widden Stud, claimed the G3 San Domenico S. and the Listed The Rosebud and is set to be represented by his first crop of yearlings at the 2024 sales.

Matt Laurie | Image courtesy of Racing Photos

Eales Racing Syndications purchased Midtown Boss for $80,000 from the draft of Noorilim Park at the 2021 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale.

Sinful Living continues winning ways at Ascot

Jockey Rachel King may be traversing the Nullabor to continue her association with Zoumon (Zoustar), but she has picked herself up a handy relationship with speedy filly Sinful Living (Safeguard), who recorded her second victory in a row to open the Monday meeting at Ascot.

Sent out a heavily backed $1.35 favourite, King attempted to adopt similar tactics to her last start success by controlling the tempo, a luxury Chris Parnham on Overdrive (Playing God) was unwilling to afford. With the speed on early, Sinful Living had to dig deep to secure the win, especially when Street Band (Lucky Street) started to close the margin passing the 200-metre pole.

The Dan and Ben Pearce-trained filly held a 0.5l margin through the line, with a further 6.75l back to third-placed Fighting Thunder (War Chant {USA}). Now a winner of two races from three starts, Sinful Living is eligible for lucrative bonuses throughout her career, as an all-female owned horse.

Purchased for $10,000 at the 2023 Magic Millions Perth Yearling Sale, she is by local stallion Safeguard, and is the first winner for her dam, Paris Memory (Redoute’s Choice). Plenty of options await her in the coming months, with races such as the R. Listed Magic Millions 2YO Trophy and the G2 Karrakatta Plate potential black-type dates to be circled in the calendar.

Orchestral

Bellatrix Star

Star Witness

Move To Strike

Trust In You

About Time

Midtown Boss

Sinful Living

Safeguard

Black type results: Pukekohe

7 min read

Cover image courtesy of Trish Dunell

G1 Sistema Railway, NZ$450,000, 1200m

The highlight of Warren Kennedy's massive day, Waitak (NZ) (Proisir) swooped from the rear to win his first race at Group 1 level - his second in stakes company on the back of his Listed Trevor & Corallie Eagle Memorial S. victory in 2022.

Waitak raced three times in Queensland last year - not having a great deal of luck.

The sixth Group 1 winner (and one of the 16 stakes winners) for his Rich Hill Stud-based sire, Waitak is a homebred for Colin Devine. He is the sixth Railway winner of sorts for his co-trainer Lance O'Sullivan who during his riding career won the race on five occasions.

Waitak is the first foal for the two-time winner Repo Bay (NZ) (Shocking) whose dam is a half-sister to the stakes-placed Sendeed (NZ) (Montjeu {Ire}).

Having as her third dam the G1 Newmarket H. winner Desirable (Without Fear {Fr}), Repo Bay was served in 2022 by Staphanos (Jpn) with her most recent named foal being the yet-to-race 2-year-old Crackercol (NZ) - a full brother to Waitak.

Carrying three Danehill (USA) strains, Waitak is also line-bred to the influential mares Fairy Bridge (USA) (Bold Reason {USA}), Lalun (USA) (Djeddah {Fr}) and Natalma (USA) (Native Dancer {USA}).

G2 Rich Hill Mile, NZ$225,000, 1600m

Charging late to provide Wayne Kennedy with his seventh winner of the day, Habana (Zoustar) appreciated a drop in grade having been a close up fifth in the G1 TAB Classic in early December.

Bred by Aquis Farm, Rathosheen Bloodstock Pty Ltd, Kellie Avison and Ariel Arnott, Habana made his way through the sales ring on two occasions - sold by Rothwell Park to Lyndhurst Farm for $160,000 at the 2020 Magic Millions National Weanling Sale, he was then passed in by Lyndhurst (reserve NZ$200,000) at the 2020 New Zealand Bloodstock Ready to Run Sale.

One of the day's three stakes winners for Cambridge Stud's Lindsay family, he is the final foal produced by the triple Adelaide winner Jeter (Mossman) whose five foals have all raced, three being winners. Her dam is the dual Listed winner Zalinda (NZ) (Zabeel {NZ}) who also produced the G3 Gilgai S. winner Fast 'N' Famous.

Zalinda is a daughter of the G1 Railway H. winner Alynda (Nassau), dam of the G3 Eclipse S. winner Alinsky (NZ) (Stravinsky {USA}) and the Listed winners Capestad (NZ) (Kaapstad {NZ}) and Altrista (NZ) (Sir Tristram {Ire}) and grandam of the stakes winners Tuchel (NZ) (Redwood {GB}) and Unfair Dismissal (All Too Hard).

Boasting crosses of the lovely mares Special (USA) (Forli {Arg}) and Magic Symbol (Makarpura {GB}), Habana - one of the 47 stakes winners for his Widden Stud-based sire - is a member of the prolific Gleam (GB) (Galloper Light {GB}) family.

G2 Sir Patrick Hogan S., NZ$225,000, 2050m

The first leg of a stakes-winning treble (two Group races in New Zealand for the Lance Noble stable and a Listed race in Australia) for Cambridge Stud (and how apt it was that they win this race!), About Time (American Pharoah {USA}) looks to have plenty of upside recording this win at just her fifth start.

The 42nd stakes winner (his first in New Zealand) for her former Coolmore shuttler, About Time is a Cambridge homebred out of the Canterbury (Sydney) winner Romantic Time (Fastnet Rock) who has produced another three (from as many to race) winners with another two of those also earning black type.

Served in 2022 (NZ Stud Book records not yet online) by Almanzor (Fr) having produced a Savabeel colt the year before, Romantic Time is the dam of the five-time Group 1-placed, multiple city winner Young Werther (NZ) (Tavistock {NZ}) and the Listed placegetter Romantic Lady (NZ) (Power {GB}).

Romantic Time is one of the nine winners for the speedy Listed Doomben Slipper winner Shalt Not (St Covet) who also produced the G2 Silver Slipper S. winner Amelia's Dream (Redoute's Choice) - in turn dam of a couple of stakes placegetters including Turangga Farm's Better Land.

About Time is the second American Pharoah (USA) stakes winner (from 13 winners/23 runners) out of a Fastnet Rock-line mare - that stallion's damsire Royal Academy (USA) being a son of Crimson Saint (USA) (Crimson Satan {USA}) whose grandson Storm Cat (USA) is the grandsire of American Pharoah's dam.

G2 Eclipse S., NZ$225,000, 1200m

The first stakes winner (and second winner) in a remarkable day for South African-born rider Wayne Kennedy, Bellatrix Star (Star Witness) led home a trifecta for Australian-bred horses defeating her stablemate Move To Strike (I Am Invincible) and Velocious (Written Tycoon).

Recording her second win from four starts, Bellatrix Star was bred in Victoria by R Dunnet and sold by Phoenix Park to David Ellis CNZM (BAFNZ) and Fortuna Racing for NZ$80,000 at the 2023 New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Yearling Sale.

The 24th stakes winner for her Widden Victoria-based sire, she is the third foal and second winner for the lightly raced Alana's Party (Exceed And Excel) whose other promising daughter Vinolass (Supido) has won all three of her starts for the Keith Dryden stable.

Served last spring by Dundeel (NZ) after foaling a colt by Nicconi - and the year before a colt by Royal Meeting (Ire), Alana's Party is a daughter of the G1 Air New Zealand S. winner The Party Stand (NZ) (Thorn Park).

Also dam of the stakes-placed Petition (Foxwedge), The Party Stand is a half-sister to the dam of the four-time Group 1 winner Callsign Mav (NZ) (Atlante).

By a stallion bred on a Nureyev (USA)/Danehill (USA) cross out of a mare bred on the opposite, Bellatrix Star hails from a prolific black-type family - able to count amongst her relations the Group 1 gallopers Mr Murphy (Danehill {USA}), Kenvain, Regal Power (Pierro) and Arcadia Queen (Pierro) as well as Widden Stud's G2 Schillaci S. winner Dirty Work.

G3 Queen Elizabeth II Cup, NZ$220,000, 2400m

Sustaining a long run out wide, Trust In You (NZ) (Sweynesse) did a great job backing up from a win over the same trip (2400 metres) on Boxing Day.

Bred by Explosive Breeding, he was sold by Novara Park (home to his dual Group 3-winning sire - a son of Lonhro) to Wallace Thoroughbreds for NZ$26,000 at the 2020 New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka (Book 2) Yearling Sale.

His sire's seventh stakes winner, Trust In You is one of the four winners produced by the Listed winner Shinko Bay (NZ) (Shinko King {Ire}) whose daughter Donna Anne Billy (NZ) (Tavistock {NZ}) is a two-time Group 3-placed, seven-time winner.

Not served in 2022 with her two most recently NZ Stud Book recorded foals being a 2022 colt by Ocean Emperor (NZ) and a 2021 filly by Ocean Park (NZ), Shinko Bay is out of a daughter of the Group 2-placed Flying Beau (NZ) (Beaufort Sea {USA}) - dam of the Listed winner Flying Free (NZ) (Heroicity), in turn dam of the Listed ARC Newmarket H. winner Cool Storm (NZ) (One Cool Cat {USA}) whose son Ocean Billy (NZ) (Ocean Park {NZ}) won the 2021 G1 Auckland Cup.

Trust In You's pedigree brings together the brothers Sadler's Wells (USA) and Fairy King (USA) and their three-quarter brother Nureyev (USA), providing for crosses of the terrific mares Fairy Bridge (USA) (Bold Reason {USA}) and Special (USA) (Forli {Arg}).

He is also line-bred to Somethingroyal (USA) (Princequillo {Ire}) and Lalun (USA) (Djeddah {Fr}).

Pukekohe

Black type results

Black type results: Ascot, Flemington and Canterbury Park

8 min read

Cover image courtesy of Western Racepix

Ascot: G2 Perth Cup, $1,000,000, 2400m

What an exciting finish it was to Perth's premier staying contest, the gutsy Casino Seventeen (Casino Prince) dug deep to defeat a gallant Be Optimistic (Blackfriars).

It was a third black-type staying victory for the consistent 6-year-old who also has on his resume the Listed Pinjarra Cup and the Listed Bunbury Southwest Cup.

Casino Seventeen is one of the 23 stakes winners for his Vinery Stud-based, G1 Chipping Norton S.-winning sire and one of the three winners from four to race for Tikal (Denman) who at her only start finished off nicely for a Randwick-Kensington fourth off a wide run from the outside gate.

Successful at nine of his 25 starts, Casino Seventeen was bred by G Briscoe, making his way through the sales ring on two occasions - sold by Widden Stud to J Hardy for $9000 at the 2010 Inglis Classic Yearling Sale and by Clare Park Thoroughbreds to Kennewell Racing for $45,000 at the 2019 Magic Millions Gold Coast 2YOs In Training Sale.

Also dam of the Sydney winners Leg Work (Shamus Award) and Petulant (Starspangledbanner), Tikal has a yet to race 3-year-old Sooboog filly, named Plaza, in the Hawkes stable and they also train her 2-year-old Husk (Calyx {GB}) who ran third at her Warwick Farm debut a couple of weeks ago.

Served last spring by Trapeze Artist after foaling a Spirit Of Boom colt, Tikal is out of the stakes-placed Flemington winner Lanquin (Last Tycoon {Ire}) whose durable son Reprobate (Reset) won 15 races. G1 BTC Cup winner Famous Seamus (NZ) (Elusive City {USA}) hails from this family as do the Group winners Ferragamo (Success Express {USA}) and Ahdashim (NZ) (Elusive City {USA}).

Casino Seventeen is bred on a 3 X 3 cross of Last Tycoon (Ire) and is one of the 14 stakes winners line-bred to him.

G3 La Trice Classic, $200,000, 1800m

It is an impressive record being built by Yonga Lass (Universal Ruler) who was strong to the line winning her first race at stakes level - and her sixth from 12 starts overall.

The 11th stakes winner for her Scenic Lodge-based, Group 3-winning sire, a son of Scenic (Ire), Yonga Lass is a homebred for I.G O'Connor out of his placed (seven times from 23 starts with a win alluding her) mare Give The Signal (Fastnet Rock).

Not returned to the Stud Book in recent years, Give The Signal has as her most recently named foal the yet-to-race 3-year-old filly Stopthe Prospector (Gingerbread Man), a member of the Mack Hall stable.

Give The Signal is out of the city-placed Tremone Bay (Last Tycoon {Ire}) who also retired a maiden having been in the first three six times from her 10 starts. She did a good job at stud with seven winners - five of those successful at metropolitan level including four in Hong Kong.

She is a full sister to the Listed Rancher H. winner Touch Of Mahogany (Last Tycoon) and a three-quarter sister to the wonderful galloper Mahogany who won his eight Group 1 races over a variety of distances between 1000 metres and 2500 metres.

Yonga Lass boasts a 5 X 5 cross of Nijinsky (Can) and a 6 X 6 cross of his relation Best In Show (USA) (Traffic Judge {USA}) who appears via her descendants Hurricane Sky and Try My Best (USA).

Listed Summer Scorcher, $125,000, 1000m

Showing good heart getting up in the final strides, Ghost Who Walks (God Has Spoken) was in the winner's circle for the 11th time - recording his second win at stakes level having taken out the Listed Beaufine S. last July.

The first stake winner for his Rivercrest Park-based, four-time Group-winning sire, a son of Blackfriars, Ghost Who Walks is a homebred for Cockatoo Ridge.

He is one of the four winners (from as many named foals) for the two-time Narrogin winner Death Knock (Lonhro) how has produced - also by God Has Spoken - the multiple city winner Holy Ghost whilst her other two winners are by God Has Spoken's full brother Playing God.

Served last year by Playing God having foaled a Splintex filly in September, Death Knock also has a yearling and a 2-year-old colt by Playing God.

She is one of the four winners produced by the triple city winner Misguiding (Royal Academy {USA}) whose son Raido (Husson {Arg}) won the Listed Goldmarket H. at the Gold Coast.

One of the six stakes winners (from 80 winners) whose pedigree combines the close relations Grosvenor (NZ) and Lonhro, Ghost Who Walks is bred on a 5 X 5 cross of the outstanding broodmare My Tricia (NZ) (Hermes {GB}).

Also line-bred to Oceana (Ire) (Colombo {GB}) via her sons - the Group 1-winning full brothers Todman and Noholme - Ghost Who Walks hails from the same Celestial Light (GB) (Donatello {Fr}) family as today's G2 Rich Hill Mile winner Habana (Zoustar).

Flemington: Listed Bagot H., $200,000, 2800m

Racing in flying form for the Anthony and Sam Freedman stable, Glentaneous (Ire) (Gleneagles {Ire}) was able to make it three wins in a row as he enjoyed black-type success for the first time.

Relishing the step up to 2800 metres, the 6-year-old became the 32nd stakes winner (and his third from just eight runners in Australia) for his Castlehyde (Coolmore) Stud-based sire, a five-time winning son of Galileo (Ire).

Purchased by Australian Bloodstock, Ronald Raushcer and Anthony Freedman Racing for 160,000gns (AU$448,600) at the 2021 Tattersalls Autumn Horses in Training Sale, he was bred by F Dunne out of the winning mare Spontaneous (Ire) (Sinndar {Ire}) whose other imported son Makram (Ire) (Make Believe {GB}) is a Flemington winner and has been twice Group-placed locally.

Spontaneous is a daughter of the outstanding broodmare Sadima (Ire) (Sadler's Wells {USA}) whose 10 foals to race are all winners including the Group 1-winning stallions Youmzain (Ire) and Creachadoir (Ire) and the Group 3-winning filly Shreyas (Ire) (Dalakhani {Ire}).

Hailing from the family of the European Champion Older Horse Pilsudski (Ire) - damsire of the late Fiorente (Ire), Glentaneous is bred on a 3 X 3 cross of Sadler's Wells (USA), also carrying a couple strains each of the half-brothers Secretariat (USA) and Sir Gaylord (USA).

Listed Chester Manifold S., $175,000, 1400m

The third stakes winner for the day in the black and gold silks of Cambridge Stud, Not An Option (Not A Single Doubt) was gutsy emerging best from a two-horse battle with Who Dares (Deep Field) over the final 100 metres.

It was a third stakes success for the 6-year-old - winner of the Listed Hareeba S. in 2022 and the G2 Wakefield Challenge S. in 2019.

One of his late sire's 82 stakes winners, he was bred by Aquis Farm and purchased by Pike Racing for NZ$240,000 at the 2019 New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Yearling Sale.

His dam is the dual Group winner Chintz (NZ) (Savabeel), half-sister to the G1 Auckland Cup winner Chenille (NZ) (Pentire {GB}). Served last spring by Extreme Choice, she foaled a colt by that same high-achieving stallion in early November with her previous foal being a daughter of King's Legacy.

Boasting a cross of the wonderful mare Best In Show (USA) (Traffic Judge {USA}) via her descendants Redoute's Choice and Try My Best (USA), Not An Option is a grandson of the G3 Challenge S winner Seraphic (NZ) (Imposing) - also ancestress of the dual Group winner Irlanda (NZ) (O'Reilly {NZ}), the dual Group 1 winner Mo'unga (NZ) (Savabeel) and the Listed winners Phelan The Power (NZ) (Power {GB}) and She's A Treasure (NZ) (Mastercraftsman {Ire}).

Canterbury Park: Listed Canterbury Sprint, $200,000, 1200m

Celebrating his 20th start with this classy victory, Insurrection (Russian Revolution) was successful at stakes level for the first time, the honest 4-year-old recording his seventh win.

Bred by Bob Hannon and sold by his Ascot Park to Darby Racing and Will Johnson Bloodstock (FBAA) for $150,000 at the 2021 Inglis Classic Yearling Sale, Insurrection is the ninth stakes winner for his Newgate Farm-based, dual Group 1-winning sire.

He is a fourth generation Hannon (who remains in the ownership)-bred horse, Ascot Park also home to his Rosehill and Randwick-winning dam Marple Miss (Not A Single Doubt) as well as her dam and grandam.

Served last spring by Home Affairs and Russian Revolution having missed the previous spring to Rebel Dane, Marple Miss has a yearling colt by Hellbent going through the ring as Lot 921 at the upcoming Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale.

Click here to view Lot 921

A three-quarter sister to the Hannon-bred G1 WS Cox Plate and G1 Australian Guineas winner Shamus award, Marple Miss is out of a half-sister to the Singapore-based, dual stakes winner Ghozi (Catbird). Also from this family is the Hannon-bred R. Listed Magic Millions and dual Group 3 winner Shaquero (Shalaa {Ire}).

Insurrection is the second stakes winner (from 20 winners/50 runners) bred on a 3 X 3 two male line cross of Redoute's Choice and the first (from three winners/five runners) combining Snitzel and Not A Single Doubt.

Snitzel's damsire Snippets is a son of the wonderful mare Easy Date (Grand Chaudiere {Can}), the grandam of Not A Single Doubt.

Ascot

Flemington

Canterbury Park

Black type results

Daily News Wrap

Straight Charge out of Millions

The R. Listed Magic Millions 2YO Classic field has taken a blow as the co-favourite Straight Charge (Written By) was ruled out of the $3 million feature on Sunday. The Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott-trained juvenile, owned by Yulong, was an impressive maiden winner at Randwick but sustained an elevated temperature, which required treatment and will be unable to make the trip to Queensland.

Nacho to Hong Kong for Richards

Archo Nacho (Sioux Nation {USA}) has been sold to Hong Kong interests and will be trained by Jamie Richards. Former trainer Matt Laurie confirmed the sale to Racing.com on Monday. The son of Sioux Nation (USA) won three of his five starts including the Listed Poseidon S. and the G3 Red Anchor S.

“I would love to have kept Archo Nacho. He’s a bloody good horse, but it was a good number,” Laurie said.

Archo Nacho | Image courtesy of The Image Is Everything

“I’d already played with fire by knocking back the first one, and we sort of achieved what we thought he was capable of. It was time to say goodbye and wish him all the best.”

Insurrection wins Canterbury Sprint

The speedy Insurrection (Russian Revolution) was much too slick for his rivals on New Year’s Day in the Canterbury Sprint held at Canterbury. The Michael Freedman-trained 4-year-old gelding, ridden by Zac Lloyd, defeated his last-start conqueror Recommendation (Shalaa {Ire}) by 1.16l.

Insurrection wins the Listed Canterbury Sprint | Image courtesy of Ashlea Brennan

Insurrection was a $150,000 purchase by Darby Racing and William Johnson Bloodstock (FBAA) from the draft of Ascot Park at the 2021 Inglis Classic Yearling Sale.

Dee starts 2024 right

Michael Dee started 2024 riding a double at Flemington on Monday. The multiple Group 1-winning jockey took out Race 2 aboard the Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr-trained Krementz (NZ) (El Roca) and later won the Listed Chester Manifold S. for Mike Moroney on Not An Option (Not A Single Doubt).

Michael Dee | Image courtesy of The Image Is Everything

Commenting on the effort of Not An Option, Dee told Racing.com, “Lucky my horse had a real will to win because at the end of the day, because Jye McNeil (second, Who Dares) would’ve outridden me there, so I’m lucky my horse got its head in front on the line.”

Hulbert eyes The Debut

Will Hulbert is eyeing the $500,000 The Debut with The Hamo (Better Than Ready) on January 13. Hulbert trains The Hamo in partnership with his father, Peter, and will be chasing their most significant success since Criminal Defence (Nicconi) took out the G3 Rough Habit Plate in 2021.

“The Hamo was purchased at the March QTIS Sale earlier this year, and Rob Zuttion and a few others bred him. They said to go and look at him, and if I liked him, they’d come in with me,” Hulbert told Punters.

“I really liked him; he is tiny - 14 hands or so- but he has an engine, so that is all that matters.”

Horns scores at Canterbury

The Sara Ryan-trained Horns, a son of the second-season sire Justify (USA), broke through at start two on Monday at Canterbury. Ridden by Kerrin McEvoy, Horns defeated Ravenclaw (Harry Angel {Ire}) and Maracaibo Sun (Mauirce {Jpn}).

Horns carries an extensive pedigree. His dam Legless Veuve (NZ) (Pins) won the G2 Thousand Guineas Prelude and the G2 Manfred S.

Horns winning at Canterbury | Image courtesy of Ashlea Brennan

The daughter of Pins is related to the outstanding mare, Probabeel (NZ) (Savabeel), who, among her many accolades, was crowned the New Zealand Horse of the Year.

Domeland paid $100,000 to secure Horns from the draft of Coolmore Stud at the 2022 Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale.

Harry Angel winner at Ascot

Second-season sire Harry Angel (Ire) hit the board at Ascot on Monday, with Angel Undercover winning the second race on the program for in-form trainers Sean and Jake Casey.

Settling towards the rear of the field under Jade McNaught, the 3-year-old quickened smartly off a slow speed in the 1000-metre contest, storming down the centre of the track to go past Shell Bell (Snippetson) and hold off All Play (Playing God).

She is the 22nd winner in Australia for Harry Angel, who stood for $33,000 (inc GST) at Darley Australia in 2023.

Sir Simon wins Longford Cup

Veteran grey Sir Simon (Tickets) enjoyed the annual meeting at Longford on Monday, taking out the Longford Cup in powerful fashion.

Having start number 45, the 10-year-old gelding rolled straight to the front under claiming apprentice Chelsea Baker, Sir Simon looked in a class of his own from a long way out, holding his lead through the line from second-placed Page (Alpine Eagle).

Trained by John Keys at Seven Mile Beach, Sir Simon’s comfortable win was his 14th, with an additional 14 placings and over $300,000 in prizemoney.

Daily News Wrap

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Job Board

3 min read

On today's Job Board

•

Boomer Bloodstock - Bloodstock Assistant

•

Silverdale Farm - Assistant Stud Manager

Boomer Bloodstock - Bloodstock Assistant

Bloodstock tasks and general operations in support of business.

- Watch and report on races.

- Attend and assist at sales.

- Data gathering and analysis for decision making.

- Maintaining database.

- Assist with client relations.

- General administrative duties.

Email: craig@boomerbloodstock.com

Silverdale Farm - Assistant Stud Manager

Silverdale currently has an exciting and unique opportunity for an Assistant Stud Manager to join its expanding team. Become a part of a growing and forward-thinking business that aspires to be an employer of choice in the thoroughbred industry.

This position would also ideally suit a couple (with family) should the partner have skills in horse care, gardening, photography, social media, administration skills, etc.

Candidates must be motivated, have a 'can-do' attitude and be passionate about working with horses. Previous experience working on stud farms is a must.

• Opportunity to use your experience and skills working with horses.

• Use your leadership skills.

• Unique state-of-the-art horse breeding farm and facilities.

• Great benefits for successful applicant.

• Modern accommodation and great staff facilities.

• Potential opportunity for a couple looking to both work and live on a farm.

• Work vehicle provided.

The Assistant Stud Manager role:

• Work closely with Rob Petith, our Stud Manager, in the day-to-day running of a commercial thoroughbred farm.

• Management of staff rostering, daily planning, and assigning daily tasks.

• Preparation of yearlings and weanlings for sales.

• Assist farriers and veterinarians – booking and coordinating.

• Experience in foaling mares (including post-natal care).

• Handling, exercising and caring for horses of various ages.

• Overseeing the daily care and supervision of horses, paddocks and stable work.

• Feeding, grooming, mucking boxes, general farm cleaning and tidying.

• If a couple is applying, a combination of horse and aligned skills is considered.

• Managing daily worksheets, billing and record keeping.

• Responsible for training of new staff.

• Participation and planning with the Silverdale Academy Intern Programs and coordination of Silverdale Intern Program – on-site learning skills.

Desirable Experience:

• Strong ability to lead a team.

• Focused attention to detail.

• Able and willing to be ‘hands-on’.

• Must have experience in areas of broodmare management, handling and yearling sales preparation.

• Must have proven experience in similar operations with health and safety management practices.

• Ability to effectively organise and supervise a small team.

• Equine nursing skills are an advantage.

Benefits:

• In return for your skills, expertise, and commitment, you will be rewarded with a generous salary commensurate with your qualifications, experience and skill level.

• Relocation costs for successful applicants interstate.

• Incentives offered for further training and upskilling.

• Utilise our great staff facilities, including accommodation, gym, rock climbing wall, tennis court, swimming pool and staff pavilion with a full-sized pool table.

Silverdale Farm is a unique 260-acre private elite thoroughbred farm located in the beautiful Southern Highlands region in NSW, southwest of Sydney near Bowral. Living and working in the Southern Highlands has many benefits, such as excellent schools, top medical providers, a supportive community, and close proximity to Sydney and Wollongong beaches, racetracks, and extensive shopping and entertainment facilities.

Please send a resume with a brief cover letter to: dtiller@silverdalefarm.com.au

Visit our website here

Job Board

Looking Ahead - January 2

Wangaratta, Race 1, 1.30pm AEDT, Bi-Rite Electrical Wangaratta Mdn Plate, $27,000, 1100m

Sienna Clare, 3-year-old filly (Written Tycoon x Optical {NZ} {Swiss Ace})

Tuesday at Wangaratta provides the launching pad for the career of Sienna Clare, who will compete for the first time in the opening race of the program.

Prepared by Nick Ryan, who is striking at 18 per cent from his last 50 runners, the filly has been given time to learn her craft, including a placing at a recent jump-out.

By Champion Sire Written Tycoon, Sienna Clare is out of an unraced Swiss Ace mare, Optical (NZ), who is a three-quarter sister to the Listed Great Northern Foal S. winner Ichiban (NZ) (Swiss Ace), and a half-sister to the Listed TCL S. winner Hursley (NZ) (Makfi {GB}).

Written Tycoon | Standing at Yulong

Bred by industry leviathan Gerry Harvey, Sienna Clare was offered in the 2022 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale, but was passed in. As a result, she will race in Harvey’s famous blue and white colours.

Blaike McDougall will pilot the filly for her first crack at a race, in which she will jump from barrier four.

Wangaratta, Race 3, 2.30pm AEDT, Tyrepower Wangaratta Mdn Plate, $27,000, 1400m

Rishiri (NZ), 3-year-old gelding (Staphanos {Jpn} x Isola Bella {NZ} {Volksraad {GB}})

Veteran horseman Michael Moroney has enjoyed plenty of success with bringing New Zealand-bred prospects to Australia, and he looks to have another progressive type in his care with Rishiri (NZ), who will make his debut at Wangaratta on Tuesday.

Purchased for NZ$85,000 at the 2022 New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale out of the draft of Ralph Thoroughbreds, this son of Staphanos (Jpn) has been well-educated on his road to racing, winning his most recent jump-out at his home course of Flemington.

Rishiri (NZ) as a yearling | Image courtesy of New Zealand Bloodstock

He is out of Isola Bella (NZ), a winning daughter of Volksraad (GB) who currently has an unblemished record as a producer, with Big Story (NZ) (What’s The Story {NZ}) claiming two victories to date in South Australia.

The family has enjoyed success globally, with victors including the G1 Longchamp Prix du Cadran victor Molesnes (USA) (Alleged {USA}), the G2 Phar Lap S. winner Just Mambo - Nittan’s Crown (Danehill Dancer {Ire}) and dual Listed winner Scouting Wide (NZ) (Zabeel {NZ}).

Jockey Fred Kersley will accompany the gelding at his first race start, with the pair jumping from barrier 12.

Looking Back

Our two runners at Gosford on Sunday ran well without winning, Still Alice (Epaulette) was able to secure a placing on her debut, while Rustenburg (The Autumn Sun) placed second in his assignment.

Looking Ahead

Looking Back

Debutants

1 min read

First-time starters lining up on Tuesday, January 2

2YO & 3YO Winners by Sire

First Season Sire Runners & Results

1 min read

First Season Sires’ Results

Results: Monday, January 1

No first season sires' results

First Season Sires’ Runners

Runners: Tuesday, January 2

First Season Sire Results

First Season Sire Runners

Second Season Sire Runners & Results

Second Season Sires’ Results

Results: Monday, January 1

Second Season Sires’ Runners

Runners: Tuesday, January 2

Second Season Sire Results

Second Season Sire Runners

NSW Race Results