'He was just a good, straightforward horse': Imperialist latest success from Curraghmore

Written by

Keely Mckitterick

8 min read

Smart colt Imperialist (NZ) (Churchill {Ire}) became the latest success story from Gordon Cunningham's outstanding nursery, Curraghmore, when he stormed to the line to claim the Listed The Phoenix. The Thoroughbred Report caught up with Cunningham to learn more about the colt he co-bred.

Cover image courtesy of Grant Peters

On Saturday, the Chris Waller-trained Imperialist (NZ) (Churchill {Ire}) burst onto the scene with a strong performance in the Listed The Phoenix over 1500 metres at Eagle Farm.

The effort gave Waller plenty to ponder about whether to push on towards next Saturday’s G1 JJ Atkins, a race in which he has celebrated much success, or to put his promising colt on ice.

Gordon Cunningham of Curraghmore, who bred Imperialist in conjunction with Demi O'Byrne's Arkle Bloodstock, is more than happy to savour Saturday's achievement and is certain that whatever call Waller makes with Imperialist will be an astute one.

The Thoroughbred Report chatted with Cunningham after the colt’s victory to learn more about the latest success story added to Curraghmore's vast honour roll. Cunningham also touched on his upcoming draft at the New Zealand Bloodstock National Weanling Sale.

Gordon Cunningham | Image courtesy of Trish Dunell

Champion Sire and a beautiful family

Imperialist is the first foal to race from Dancing Hare, a daughter of the outstanding broodmare sire Fastnet Rock. The well-related mare was a $400,000 purchase by Lee Freedman and Jon Kelly (USA) at the 2015 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale. Her trainers thought highly enough of her to set her on a G1 Australian Oaks path, contesting the G3 Adrian Knox S. However, the wet conditions in Sydney that year worked against Dancing Hare, and she was unable to replicate her best.

Dancing Hare was offered at the 2017 Magic Millions National Broodmare Sale, where James Bester Bloodstock signed for her at over $90,000. The daughter of Fastnet Rock raced on for a little while after, eventually retiring with three victories and four placings from 19 starts.

Although Dancing Hare retired with a rather modest race record, her pedigree suggested she could be a successful broodmare. Her dam, the unraced Global Dance (Ire), a daughter of the Champion Sire Sadler’s Wells (USA), is a half-sister to the G1 Prix Saint-Alary S. victress Cerulean Sky (Ire) (Darshaan {GB}), who then produced Honolulu (Ire), the Champion 3-Year-Old Stayer in Ireland.

Dancing Hare was purchased from the 2017 Magic Millions National Broodmare Sale for $90,000 | Image courtesy of Magic Millions

Dancing Hare’s pedigree also includes the G1 Irish Oaks winner Moonstone (GB) (Dalakhani {Ire}) and the G1 The Derby-placed U S Army Ranger (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}).

Describing Dancing Hare, Cunningham told TTR AusNZ, “She was a beautifully bred Fastnet Rock, ultimately, she had shown ability on the track, and she’d been brought down to Sydney by the Freedmans to run in potentially the Australian Oaks, but it was the autumn, and the racing was pretty much washed out.

“So, basically her ownership elected to sell her, they were selling all of their horses. She appealed to us physically, but she’s got a beautiful pedigree and a beautiful family.”

The Churchill factor

Dancing Hare visited Coolmore’s multiple Group 1-winning son of Scat Daddy (USA), Caravaggio (USA), in her first season. The resultant foal, a colt, is unnamed.

The daughter of Fastnet Rock returned to Coolmore but this time was served by Churchill (Ire), an outstanding son of the late Galileo (Ire). Churchill was a superb 2-year-old and a Classic-winning 3-year-old. He won the G1 Dewhurst S. and the G1 National S. as a juvenile, and then claimed the Guineas double: the G1 2000 Guineas and the G1 Irish 2000 Guineas.

The son of Galileo has shown the ability to produce top-class horses. Churchill is the sire of 25 stakes winners worldwide and 49 stakes performers.

Churchill (Ire) | Standing at Coolmore

He has sired the likes of the outstanding filly Blue Rose Cen (Ire), the G1 Prix du Jockey Club and G1 Eclipse S. victor Vadeni (Fr), and the Australian Group 1 winner Attrition.

Sending Dancing Hare to Churchill replicates the hugely successful Galileo/Fastnet Rock cross, which produces a 27 per cent stakes winner to runners ratio.

Although the cross played a part in Cunningham’s decision, he’s also a fan of Churchill. “The success of the nick played a part in sending Dancing Hare to Churchill.

“However, Churchill himself was a horse of the highest class. He’s the type of horse you’d long to breed a mare to anyway, on his class. Certainly, the bloodlines looked compatible and supported the decision,” Cunningham said.

Dancing Hare foaled a filly by Rich Hill Stud’s outstanding young sire Satono Aladdin (Jpn) and was then served by the G1 Cox Plate victor and Group 1-producing stallion Ocean Park (NZ).

Every opportunity

Reflecting on Imperialist as a young horse, Cunningham said, “He was just a good, straightforward horse from birth. He always had plenty of strength, good limbs, and a very good mind, really.”

Cunningham prepared the son of Churchill under his Curraghmore banner for the 2023 New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale. The colt was purchased for NZ$170,000 by champion trainer Chris Waller under his Chris Waller Racing banner and Mulcaster Bloodstock.

Imperialist is raced by his trainer along with Mr N Greenhalgh, Mrs M Greenhalgh, Mrs S Mann, Mrs A Galvin, Mr M Phillips, Mrs L Phillips, Mr K Gibbons, Mr L Caminiti, Mrs E Hunt, Mr K Drummond, Mr M Coli, Mr W Coli, Mr M Bates and Mr T Hunt.

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

Waller had also signed for Curraghmore graduate Unforgotten (Fastnet Rock), whom he trained in Imperialist’s lime and dark green shamrock colours to success in the G1 Australian Oaks, the G2 Phar Lap S., and the G2 Chelmsford S.

Commenting on the price and the judges, Cunningham said, “I was thrilled with the price (NZ$170,000). It was a very good price for him, and we were delighted that he was secured by Guy (Mulcaster) and Chris (Waller) to join his stable. We knew he’d get every opportunity to fulfil his potential.”

“It was a very good price for him (Imperialist), and we were delighted that he was secured by Guy (Mulcaster) and Chris (Waller) to join his stable. We knew he’d get every opportunity to fulfil his potential.” - Gordon Cunningham

Imperialist debuted at Caulfield over 1100 metres, where he was unplaced, and followed that effort with a fourth-placed performance at Randwick-Kensington over 1400 metres, before Saturday’s success.

Asked if he was surprised to see Imperialist win a stakes race as a juvenile, Cunningham commented, “Those (stakes wins) always come as surprises anyway, don’t they? They’re always nice surprises. He’d been given two runs earlier than we might’ve thought. But he was obviously learning his ringcraft and he looked well. He was obviously well-placed on Saturday to run a good 1500 metres, which his pedigree suggests he would do well. So, they had him ready and he really found the line well on Saturday, which was very fun to see.”

On pushing on to next Saturday’s G1 JJ Atkins, Cunningham added, “To be honest, whatever call Chris would make you’d have confidence that it’s very objective.”

Well-rounded draft

Cunningham’s immediate focus turns to the New Zealand Bloodstock National Weanling Sale on Thursday, June 20, where he will consign 10 weanlings under his Curraghmore banner.

There is plenty of sire power on display, with lots by Proisir (Lot 36), Savabeel (Lot 56), Contributer (Ire) (Lot 73), and Waikato Stud’s young gun Super Seth (Lot 3).

They are joined by promising young stallions such as Sword Of State (Lots 18, 112, 134), Noverre (NZ) (Lot 125), Circus Maximus (Ire) (Lot 109), and St Mark’s Basilica (Fr) (Lot 139).

“I think across the board we’ve got a very good draft of horses. In its own right, it’s a draft we would present at the yearling sale next January. Without exception, each one of those horses could join any draft.

“I think across the board we’ve got a very good draft of horses. In its own right, it’s a draft we would present at the yearling sale next January. Without exception, each one of those horses could join any draft.” - Gordon Cunningham

“I’ve got great confidence that they’re genuine horses. We’ve got three colts there by Sword Of State, a stallion we’ve got a lot of time for. We’ve got a good colt by Noverre, another first-season sire, and a lovely colt by St Mark’s Basilica. There’s also a Savabeel and Proisir colt, but just right across the board, there’s a nice group of weanlings. They’re all very sound prospects. Many of our clients use the weanling sale as a means of keeping them in the business, their cash flow, and that applies to a number of horses in our draft this year, as it did last year.

Asked about his confidence in the market and participation at the sale, Cunningham is optimistic, “I think all the indications are positive. First and foremost, New Zealanders have participated big so far at the weanling sales in Australia. However, they know their best buying is usually at home where they can buy with the New Zealand dollar. On top of that, they don’t have to consider air freight or anything like that, and of course, the Karaka Weanling Sale has been a source for years of good success if you’re an owner or trainer or a pinhooker.

“I think it’s a neat catalogue, and a number of vendors over the years have really established the sale as being the source of some very good genuine horses going forward.”

Click here to view Curraghmore's weanling draft at the New Zealand Bloodstock National Weanling Sale

Imperialist

Gordon Cunningham

Curraghmore

Focus on Welfare: The power of diagnostic imaging

Written by

Caitlin Smith

8 min read

Continuing our regular series on industry welfare initiatives, TTR AusNZ takes a look at the power of diagnostic imaging, a tool that not only helps prevent potentially catastrophic injuries but also enhances our understanding of common ailments, ultimately safeguarding our social licence.

Cover image courtesy of Ashlea Brennan

In March 2019, a series of horse fatalities prompted Californian authorities to halt racing activities at Santa Anita Park just days before one of the most anticipated events on its stakes schedule. Following nearly a month-long suspension, the racetrack, a regular host of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, reopened with stringent measures in place.

Among the reforms were updated medication protocols, limitations on jockey whip usage, and the incorporation of advanced imaging technologies for early injury detection. These collective initiatives have led to a significant 50 per cent decrease in equine fatalities since 2019.

TTR AusNZ spoke with Dr Jeff Blea, equine medical director of the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) about the pivotal shift within the industry following the sobering events of 2019.

“What happened in 2019 was a pretty visceral realisation to horse racing and the industry in California that we have to change, otherwise we will no longer exist. This prompted the enactment of various reforms focused on enhancing welfare and safety, involving all stakeholders from trainers and owners to veterinarians and track management.

“What happened in 2019 was a pretty visceral realisation to horse racing and the industry in California that we have to change, otherwise we will no longer exist.” - Dr Jeff Blea

“Medication rules, joint injections, diagnostic imaging and increased veterinary exams came to the forefront. The goal was to put the veterinarian back into the equation.”

Prevention and early intervention key

A crucial reform was empowering regulatory veterinarians to request diagnostic imaging for examined horses. This preventative approach aimed to catch injuries early, preventing them from escalating into something more tragic. The effectiveness of these reforms is clear: there has been a significant decline in racing and training fatalities, with a reported one-third reduction in equine fatalities at California racetracks due to musculoskeletal injuries in the financial year 2022-23.

“We have a nuclear scintigraphy Gamma camera, a standing MRI machine and a positron emission tomography (PET) scanner on the back side of Santa Anita. All practising vets also have access to ultrasound machines for soft tissue or digital radiography equipment.

“It is now state law that regulatory vets have the authority to request diagnostic imaging from the trainer or the attending veterinarian and the owners are responsible for paying those costs.

“It is now state law that regulatory vets have the authority to request diagnostic imaging from the trainer or the attending veterinarian and the owners are responsible for paying those costs.” - Dr Jeff Blea

The introduction of cutting-edge diagnostic equipment, including nuclear scintigraphy, MRI, and PET scans, has transformed injury detection and prevention in California. These tools have enabled rapid improvements in fatality and injury rates. Dr Blea credits diagnostic imaging and continuous learning for these advancements.

“While it’s not cheap, diagnostic imaging has helped accomplish two things: reducing fatalities and preventing musculoskeletal injuries.

“While it’s not cheap, diagnostic imaging has helped accomplish two things: reducing fatalities and preventing musculoskeletal injuries.” - Dr Jeff Blea

“In our post-mortem program, we've learned about pre-existing injuries and how they change over time. We started with traditional radiography and moved to digital imaging, which improved our ability to diagnose and prevent issues. Nuclear scintigraphy has also been helpful, especially for internal stress fractures and fractures in areas like the scapula, tibia, and pelvis. Now, with MRI and PET scans, we've learned that even subtle issues previously thought to be minor can actually be problematic.

“Now, with scintigraphy or similar procedures, the injury is clearly visible, making it evident when a horse needs time off. This clarity ensures that all parties are more agreeable to giving the horse the necessary rest. Additionally, when the horse is ready to return to work, another scan can confirm that it has fully healed,” emphasised Dr Blea.

A local leader

Locally, while Australia has one of the lowest racetrack fatality rates in the world, this isn’t an excuse to rest on our laurels. Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) and Racing Victoria (RV) have each implemented rebate schemes to encourage the use of advanced diagnostic imaging to investigate and prevent musculoskeletal conditions in thoroughbreds. While the uptake continues to surge, RWWA Head of Veterinary Services Dr Judith Medd explains the cascade of positive effects as a result of the program which commenced in February 2022 under a trial arrangement.

While the uptake was slow to begin with, the program - which offers a 50 per cent rebate on advanced diagnostic imaging up to $1,500 - has grown to be hugely successful.

Two horses working on Ascot racecourse, WA | Image courtesy of Western Racepix

“Up until the end of July 2022 we had rebated nine thoroughbred procedures. From August 1, 2022 to the end of July 2023 we rebated 46 thoroughbred procedures and as for this racing season to date we have already rebated 50 thoroughbred procedures.

Although 15,000 kilometres from Santa Anita, the outcomes of Western Australia’s scheme mirror those seen in California, particularly in the early identification of injuries that might have otherwise gone unnoticed and providing more definitive timelines for trainers, owners, and vets.

“Horses with minor lameness that might have been overlooked are now being scanned, revealing issues like stress fractures in the upper limb. This early detection allows us to give the horse a break before the condition becomes catastrophic. It's all about early intervention and preventing minor fractures from becoming serious ones, noted Dr Medd .

“Horses with minor lameness that might have been overlooked are now being scanned, revealing issues like stress fractures in the upper limb... It's all about early intervention and preventing minor fractures from becoming serious ones.” - Dr Judith Medd

"Not only do we rebate the procedure, but it also provides valuable information. In the past, if a horse was lame and had an upper limb lameness that couldn't be identified by vets, trainers, vets, and owners had to make decisions without concrete evidence. They might suggest resting the horse for four to six months without being able to prove the necessity, leading to doubts from owners,” Dr Medd elaborated.

Improving the culture

While it hasn’t been easy, Dr Blea highlighted the industry's positive response to these changes, emphasising a cultural shift towards prioritising safety and welfare.

“We just got approval for a new CHRB rule that will go into effect on July 1. Any intra-articular corticosteroid that's administered into a high motion joint, which we define as front fetlock, hind fetlock, or knee will require diagnostic imaging to be documented within seven days preceding the treatment.

“As an example of the positive response, I sent out an email to all trainers and veterinarians in California advising them of the new rule going into effect on July 1, and I haven't received a single complaint.

“There are a lot of rules, and it was a major sea change, but out of 2019 came a tremendous cultural shift in California where safety and welfare became the number one priority. The change was hard because it was new, but we're starting to see the effects filter across the country,” Dr Blea emphasised.

“There are a lot of rules, and it was a major sea change, but out of 2019 came a tremendous cultural shift in California where safety and welfare became the number one priority.” Dr Jeff Blea

In Western Australia, Dr Medd noted that the scheme has improved the relationships between trainers, owners, veterinarians, and racing regulators, ultimately enhancing equine welfare outcomes.

“As part of the scheme, we request all scans and related information be sent to RWWA to understand what is happening. This enables us to have conversations with the trainer and possibly the referring vet.

“As part of the scheme (advanced diagnostic imaging rebates), we request all scans and related information be sent to RWWA to understand what is happening. This enables us to have conversations with the trainer and possibly the referring vet.” Dr Judith Medd

“If the horse needs a spell, we'll put an embargo on the horse in our system so that when it returns, it needs a clearance from the trainer's vet. If the trainer's vet then requests another scintigraphy scan to ensure the stress fracture is healed, we’ll rebate 50 per cent of that procedure as well.”

Traditionally, regulatory intervention might have elicited negative reactions from industry participants. However, this evolving relationship prioritises deepening our understanding of our equine athletes and, above all, safeguarding their welfare. By doing so, we do what’s right by the horse and also address one of our most pressing challenges: public perception.

Welfare

Santa Anita Park

Dr Jeff Blea

Dr Judith Medd

Travis Strong and partners keen to raise money for Prostate Cancer awareness

Written by

Keely McKitterick

10 min read

The Thoroughbred Report chatted with Rule Prostate's Director, Travis Strong, about its new initiative 'Race For Rule', a brainchild of likeminded individuals looking to change the conversation around Prostate Cancer and raise funds and awareness for the 'most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia'. For $290, investors can race four yearlings.

Cover image courtesy of Race For Rule

Travis Strong, Director of the charitable organisation Rule Prostate, is on a mission to combine his lifelong passion for racing with raising awareness around the often- neglected conversation of Prostate Cancer and the importance of getting checked.

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Through his involvement in racing, Strong has found a supportive community eager to rally behind this crucial cause. He's using his platform to make a meaningful impact and encourage men to take charge of their health.

With the support of breeders Ross and Brett Holburt, BTX Racing, and Griffiths de Kock Racing, Strong has launched a syndicate called ‘Race For Rule’. The aim is to raise much-needed funds for Rule Prostate and awareness of a cancer that claims the lives of 3700 men a year in Australia, making it "the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia" according to figures from PCFA.

For a paltry $290 investment, investors receive shares in four rising 2-year-olds bred by Ross and Brett Holburt, covering all costs for the next three years. Rule For Rule plans to sell 2000 shares. If successful, they will donate a sum of $40,000 to Rule Prostate Cancer, with a commitment to distribute a minimum of 10 per cent of all prizemoney won by the four horses to Rule Prostate Cancer as well.

The Thoroughbred Report caught up with Strong to find out more about this meaningful initiative.

Idea behind the initiative

The idea behind ‘Race For Rule’ stemmed from a combination of individuals who unfortunately lost family and friends to Prostate Cancer. With no government support afforded to Rule Prostate, raising funds is essential. However, Strong is equally determined to change ‘the conversation and stigma’ surrounding Prostate Cancer.

With 3700 too many men dying from Prostate Cancer in Australia each year, the positive news is that if it is detected early enough and the right treatment and care are afforded to the individual, it doesn't have to be a death sentence.

“I’ve been the Board Director at Rule Prostate Cancer for six years. We do a lot of work in the racing industry promoting men’s health awareness and fundraising,” Strong told TTR AusNZ.

Travis Stong | Image courtesy of Rule Prostate

“A gentleman by the name of Brett Holburt, who has been involved in Slickpix doing racing photography for decades, alongside Ross Holburt. Ross, I’ve known personally, and he and his family have had Prostate Cancer issues in the past.

“So, Ross and his brother bred four horses and said they’d like to race them as a syndicate with the money and the percentage of the prizemoney going to Rule Prostate, which was great.

“Robbie Griffiths got involved because his brother, Rodney, who used to be a jockey passed away from Prostate Cancer, so he was happy to train them alongside Mathew de Kock.

“Then BTX Racing kindly said they will waive their fees and package them to syndicate them. So, there have been a few different conversations that have happened about getting these four horses together to race as one package.”

“Robbie Griffiths got involved because his brother, Rodney, who used to be a jockey passed away from Prostate Cancer, so he was happy to train them alongside Mathew de Kock. Then BTX Racing kindly said they will waive their fees and package them to syndicate them.” - Travis Strong

Excitingly, Racing Victoria has approved the Rule Prostate Cancer silks to be used for the ‘Race To Rule’ syndicate. Syndicate members will also enjoy exclusive events, from meet-and-greets with the syndicate ambassador, Matt Hill, to VIP race days.

“Racing Victoria came to the party; we’ve always had our bespoke silks that we race with from time to time, and they said, “Look we’re happy for these four horses to race in those silks,” and then the great caller, Matt Hill came on as an ambassador, so I guess it’s just snowballed a little bit and now we’re at the point where we’re ready to sell the shares in the syndicates.”

One of a kind

With the changing landscape of Thoroughbred racing ownership in Australia becoming more flexible and inclusive, opportunities for the ‘average Joe’ to enjoy the thrill and majesty of owning a Thoroughbred have expanded. In Australia, racing is no longer ‘The Sport Of Kings’, with people from all walks of life and backgrounds participating in the industry. The openness of racing in Australia provided the perfect platform for ‘Race For Rule’.

“I’ve been involved in horse racing for 16 years, and we were just looking at different ways and means of promoting a positive message and raising awareness. I haven’t seen a syndicate like this anywhere else. So, it’s a bit of a unique one with a positive message that will have an impact.

“At $290, it is pretty cost-effective for people to get the opportunity to race four horses together. The $290 covers the shares in the four horses plus all the training and fees for the next three years. So, in terms of an entry point to racing, it’s a cost-effective and exciting opportunity.”

“At $290, it is pretty cost-effective for people to get the opportunity to race four horses together.” - Travis Strong

Strong is hopeful that pushing Prostate Cancer awareness will see more men prioritize their health and get checked. While the funds will go straight into the Rule Prostate kitty to be distributed towards the Australian Prostate Centre in North Melbourne, the APC Prostate Cancer Bus, APC Prostate Cancer Genomics Clinic, the E J Whitten Centre for Prostate Cancer Research, and Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses; all facilities and tools aimed at preventing Prostate Cancer or caring for those living with it.

“Prostate Cancer obviously had a little bit of a stigma attached to it. It was perceived as an ‘old man’s disease’ and maybe an invasive testing mechanism. However, I got involved because my best mate passed away from prostate cancer when he was 42.

“Also, the testing is much easier; it’s just a blood test. So, we want to try and encourage younger men around the age of 40 to get tested, but also put the awareness to a demographic of men across all ages. What’s good with all these different parties coming together and waiving their fees is that if we can sell the 2000 shares, we’ll be able to make a donation of $40,000 straight off the bat.

Race For Rule silks | Image courtesy of Race For Rule

“And then 10 per cent of the prizemoney there on. So, who knows these horses could run for years in our silks, and we might get lucky and get one that’s out of the box, you never know.

“But I think the positive messaging is that every time people see the silks or hear the name they think, ‘I’ve got to get tested,’ and the good thing about Rule Prostate is that we’ve got a clinic in North Melbourne that treats men and accommodates families regardless of their insurance, and it is so quick.

“I think the positive messaging is that every time people see the silks or hear the name they think, ‘I’ve got to get tested,’ and the good thing about Rule Prostate is that we’ve got a clinic in North Melbourne that treats men and accommodates families regardless of their insurance, and it is so quick.” - Travis Strong

“The more money we can raise, the more men we can treat or test, and ultimately work towards preventing deaths from Prostate Cancer. Because sometimes in the public system, you can be waiting up to nine or 12 months to be seen. We see men as soon as they get a diagnosis. We don’t get any government funding at all, which is sort of a frustration, but initiatives like this go a long way to helping us treat about 5000 men annually.

“The more money we can raise, the more oncologists, nurses, and physios we can put on as support.”

Racing, a wonderful community.

Despite the bad rap racing receives from the uneducated and uninformed, the industry has always fostered a positive attitude and supportive hand towards charitable endeavours that support participants and the wider communities.

“We’ve had a lot of support from racing. Racing.com has always been a big supporter of ours. As has the Ciaron Maher stable; we’ve been their charity partner for a while. The Melbourne Racing Club gave us over $350,000 last year, and we were its charity partner for a year.

“We are just gradually getting into more and more areas in racing because it’s a target-rich environment in terms of the demographic of the people who are racing, older men in a lot of instances.

“We are just gradually getting into more and more areas in racing because it’s a target-rich environment in terms of the demographic of the people who are racing, older men in a lot of instances.” - Travis Strong

“However, with our messaging it’s not just men we want to encourage. Women, who have got significant men in their lives, to make sure that they push them in to get tested, as we know traditionally women are better at looking after their health. Whereas men are not so proactive.

“And also, really encouraging the younger demographic to tell your brother, your uncle, your dad, and your grandfather, you know that it's just an annual blood test. There’s around 240,000 men in Australia who are still alive after having a diagnosis because the treatment’s a lot better if you get it really early.

“However, the deaths are still too high. So, that’s why the continued messaging of 'get tested, get in early, and get treatment as quickly as you can.'

The four horses in the Race For Rule charity horse pack | Image courtesy of BTX Racing

With a model that is replicable, Strong hopes the reception is positive and gives a boost to further initiatives down the line.

“We did a pre-register which had a lot of interest. We know it’s tricky in June and probably not a great time to ask people to part with $290 but if it takes us a couple of months, that’s fine. There weren't any plans to go behind this.

“Everyone is very focused on getting this done but it’s absolutely a replicable model. I’d love to see other charities potentially doing something similar as well. It doesn’t just have to be Rule Prostate because it’s a great concept.

“Everyone is very focused on getting this (Race For Rule) done but it’s absolutely a replicable model. I’d love to see other charities potentially doing something similar as well.” - Travis Strong

“The micro-syndication opens up a whole world of possibility in terms of unique ownership. The horses are being educated now. So, Robbie will probably be looking to get them into the stables in the next couple of months and just see whether they’re going to be early or not.

“It’d be great to get one horse up maybe before the end of the year, but hopefully next year we’ll be off and running. Obviously, Robbie’s team is in really good form, and they are based at the exceptional Cranbourne facility.”

How to get involved

For anybody wanting to get involved in this charitable and exciting initiative, alongside educating and raising awareness of Prostate Cancer to the wider communities, Strong said, “I think first and foremost ‘Rule To Race’ is a syndication with a purpose. People can just jump online to register, and it probably takes about five minutes to comply with Racing Australia’s rules.

“Just give your name, drivers licence and that’s pretty much all to register online and then away we go.”

To register

To learn more about Rule Prostate

Rule To Race

Rule Prostate

Travis Strong

International News

16 min read

United States of America

Brother to Kentucky Derby hero, Dornoch shines in Belmont S.

Coming into this year's G1 Belmont S., Dornoch (USA) (Good Magic) had the credentials to be a good one. As a full brother to last year's G1 Kentucky Derby winner Mage (USA), the pedigree was certainly there. His rider, Luis Saez, is one of the leading jocks in the country, having registered his first victory in a Classic with Essential Quality (USA) in the 2021 G1 Belmont S.

Not to mention that the colt already won a pair of Graded stakes races - last season's G2 Remsen S. in addition to the G2 Fountain of Youth S. this year. But most did not believe, as reflected by the 17-1 odds that the colt was given while facing nine others in the final leg in the Triple Crown. But standing staunchly in his corner and never giving up the faith was trainer Danny Gargan.

“I never lost faith in him,” the New York-based trainer said. “He had tremendous work up here. He's a big powerful horse. You just have to be patient and not lose focus and just grind away, and hopefully, you get lucky and win one of these. And today, we did.”

Dornoch defeated Mindframe (USA) (Constitution {USA}) and Sierra Leone (USA) (Gun Runner {USA}). Meanwhile, the G1 Preakness S. victor Seize The Grey (USA) (Arrogate {USA}) faded to seventh ahead of the G1 Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan (USA) (Goldencents {USA}).

Redemption is sweet and Gargan, who has remained high on his charge since the colt's 10th-place finish in the Derby, revelled in a victory well earned.

“I'm still just taking it in,” said Gargan, winning his first Classic. “It's pretty exciting. It's a special thing just to be a part of these races, not to mention to win one with a horse you bought at Keeneland and have had it for its whole racing life. I spend so much time with him and my staff has done such a great job with him.”

“It's a special thing just to be a part of these races, not to mention to win one with a horse you bought at Keeneland and have had it for its whole racing life.” - Danny Gargan

Dornoch’s (USA) dam, Puca, a daughter of the G1 Kentucky Derby winner Big Brown (USA) has already enjoyed Classic success when her son, a full brother to Dornoch, Mage (USA) produced the goods in the G1 Kentucky Derby last year.

Reportedly, by TDN America, Puca is believed to be the ninth mare in history to produce two separate winners of two American Classic, she is only the second to produce individual Kentucky Derby and Belmont winners.

Only two other mares in modern history have produced two separate American Classic winners: Better Than Honour (USA) (Deputy Minister {Can}) (Rags to Riches (USA) (A.P Indy {USA}) and Jazil (USA), both in the Belmont) and Weekend Surprise (USA) (Secretariat {USA}) Summer Squall (USA) in the Preakness and A.P. Indy (USA) in the Belmont).

John Stewart of Resolute Racing, relatively new to the sport, purchased Puca in 2023 from the Case Clay consignment at Keeneland November for US$2.9 million (AU$4.4 million) post-sale. She produced a full brother to Mage and Dornoch for Stewart April. Both Mage and Dornoch were bred by Robert Clay's Grandview Equine, who originally purchased the mare for US$475,000 (AU$721,400) at the 2018 Fasig-Tipton Kentucky November sale. Including her first foal, Gunning (USA) (Gun Runner {USA}), Puca has three stakes performers from the same number of starters.

Puca also has the unraced 2-year-old colt Baeza (USA) (McKinzie {USA}), who sold to Mayberry Farm for US$1.2 million (AU$1.8 million) at Keeneland September. She was bred back to Good Magic (USA) for 2025.

Dornoch is one of the nine graded winners from 17 black-type winners by Hill n' Dale's Good Magic, who sends just his third crop to the races this year. In addition to his two Classic winners, Good Magic also has additional Grade 1 winners in Muth (USA) and Blazing Sevens (USA). The son of Curlin (USA) was the leading first-crop sire of 2022 and is currently second to Justify (USA) on the leading third-crop sire list.

Randomized conquers Idiomatic in thrilling Odgen Phipps

Favoured Idiomatic (USA) (Curlin {USA}) towered over her competition both in stature and on paper in Saturday's G1 Ogden Phipps S. Despite her imposing presence, however, it was Klaravich Stables' Randomized (USA) (Nyquist {USA}) who stole the show when holding on to a head victory over last year's Champion Older mare in the 'Win and You're In' event for the G1 Breeders' Cup Distaff at Del Mar in November.

“She's quick out of the gate. She maintained the speed, so that was good,” said winning rider Joel Rosario. “I was begging for the wire because Idiomatic was coming. So, I was sweating a little bit, but she got the job done. She kind of waited until the last part. My horse, she responded.”

As for the beaten favourite, trainer Brad Cox said, “She ran well and was the best horse. She lost a tremendous amount of ground around the first turn and second turn. The winner didn't really have any pace pressure. Excited about the rematch. Can't wait.”

Having shown an affinity for the Saratoga main track, Randomized won a pair of stakes here last summer–the restricted Wilton S. over a mile followed by a career-high win in the G1 Alabama S. Making it three straight with a victory in the nine-furlong G2 Beldame S. at the Big A last October, the bay found Idiomatic a 0.50l too good in the G1 Breeders' Cup Distaff at Santa Anita given some time off following that effort, she resumed with a second G2 Ruffian S. May 4.

In regard to her next race, Brown, winning his first Ogden Phipps, was non-committal.

“I haven't thought about anything for her next race yet,” he said. “I just wanted to see her get right back on track. Last time, even though she was off the layoff, I thought it was a disappointing loss because she was the class of the field. As it turns out, she just needed that race.”

Randomized had to play bridesmaid to Idiomatic in last fall's Breeders' Cup, but she was able to turn the tables on champion, with some racing luck, this time.

“These two were going at it in the Breeders' Cup last year and we came out on the wrong side of that one. Idiomatic is a deserving champion. She's an outstanding horse,” said Brown. “I think we were very fortunate to save more ground than her. She was pitched three-deep the whole way and still almost won the race. I'm taking nothing away from her. She ran an equally good race. We were able to just get our nose down. I've said, the photos go both ways, so I keep that in mind when I lose them.”

Richard and Connie Snyder's Cove Springs acquired French Passport (USA) (Elusive Quality {USA}), a half-sister to the stakes winners Smooth Air (USA) (Smooth Jazz {USA}), Overdriven (USA) (Tale of the Cat {USA}) and the dam of the Group 1 winner Got Stormy (USA) (Get Stormy {USA}), for US$200,000 (AU$303,800) in foal to American Pharoah (USA) at the 2018 Keeneland November Sale.

The resulting foal, a colt later named Rayas (USA), brought US$550,000 (AU$835,400) from Hideyuki Mori at OBS March in 2021. Additionally, Klaravich owns the 2-year-old half-brother to Randomized, Marginal Cost (USA) (Justify {USA}), who brought US$410,000 (AU$622,700) at Keeneland September in 2022. French Passport is also responsible for a Frosted (USA) filly that RNA'd for US$400,000 (AU$607,500) at Keeneland in 2023 and a yearling filly by Maxfield (USA).

Book’em Danno on the right side of photo in Woody Stephens

Following a 12.75l victory by New Jersey-bred Book'em Danno (USA) (Bucchero {USA}) in the seven-furlong Pasco S. at Tampa on seasonal debut back in January, trainer Derek Ryan got social media all fired up by almost blasphemously suggesting that a trip down the Triple Crown trail–one he'd traversed before with Musket Man (USA) (Yonaguska {USA})–was not necessarily an appropriate course to chart for his trainee.

“I have no Derby dreams,” Ryan told TDN's Bill Finley at the time. “I think the Derby is overrated, but that's just me. We were never really considering the Derby trail. You put the horse under a lot of pressure.”

The G2 Pat Day Mile was mooted as a possible comeback spot for Book'em Danno, but when it became clear he wouldn't be ready in time for that Derby undercard event, the next logical option was the G1 Woody Stephens S.

Irad Ortiz, Jr. kept after Book'em Danno right-handed and was on the winning end of the photo this time around. Prince Of Monaco was a gallant second and lost nothing in defeat, while Nutella Fella (USA) (Runhappy {USA{), making his first start since winning last year's G1 Hopeful S. over the course and distance, spiced up the triple at 20-1.

“They were going fast,” commented the winning jockey, taking the race for the first time since 2015. “The horse relaxed. When I started moving, he started finding really well on the turn. He started responding really, really good on the turn, so that helped a lot. Turning for home, I was still in a hold, then I asked him, and he gave me a good kick at the end. That was great. He is a nice horse.”

Ryan, unsaddling the first Grade 1 winner of his career, indicated that all roads likely lead back to Saratoga for the G1 Allen Jerkens S. over the same course and trip in August.

The most prolific of his sire's 74 individual winners, Book'em Danno is the first Graded winner of any variety for Bucchero (USA), who covered his first book of mares at nearby McMahon of Saratoga Thoroughbreds this season after proving popular with the Florida breeding community at Pleasant Acres Stallions near Ocala.

Breeder Greg Kilka purchased the unraced Adorabella (USA) (Ghostzapper {USA}) for US$14,000 (AU$21,300) in foal to Fast Anna (USA) at the 2020 Keeneland January Sale, and that foal, Girl Trouble (USA), did her part in improving the page with a pair of juvenile stakes scores in 2022.

When factoring in Book'em Danno's emergence late last year, the family became even more valuable, as the now-juvenile colt by Classic Empire (USA) topped the Fasig-Tipton Midlantic October sale on LC Racing's bid of US$135,000 (AU$205,000) and that same operation added Adorabella to the fold when paying US$550,000 (AU$835,300) for the mare in foal to Medaglia d'Oro (USA) after she was supplemented to the Fasig-Tipton November Sale. Adorabella subsequently aborted the foal.

National Treasure romps in the Metropolitan H.

The morning-line odds may have suggested that a showdown between Classic-winning National Treasure (USA) (Quality Road {USA}) and G1 Breeders' Cup Classic winner White Abarrio (USA) (Race Day {USA}) could be in the offing in the G1 Hill 'n' Dale Metropolitan H., a 'Win and You're In' for the Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile.

After the dust had settled, however, it proved to be more of a procession for the Bob Baffert runner, who streaked home a much-the-best 6.25l winner over Post Time (USA) (Frosted {USA}).

“The first part of the race, I had to keep him engaged,” said Flavien Prat. “But then once I got down the backside, it felt like I was going to be able to get away from Johnny Velazquez, aboard Hoist the Gold. Then after that, when I tightened my rein, he just went on.”

Prat added, “He has always shown talent. There's one thing about him is he always shows up and runs his race. It was a great run today.”

“He's royally bred and a beautiful horse, but it's about the excitement of winning these big races for these clients,” said Baffert when asked about the colt's stallion career. “That's why they're in the business–to play on the big stage. The stallion part of it he'll have to prove down the road, but we know he's a tremendous racehorse.”

When asked about a potential start in the nine-furlong G1 Whitney S. at the Spa, offering a “Win and You're In” berth to the GI Breeders' Cup Classic, Baffert said, “If he tips me off, it's very possible.”

National Treasure’s dam, Treasure's (USA) (Medaglia D’Oro {USA}) 2-year-old Authentic (USA) filly has been named Renoir (USA). Blum also bred Breeders' Cup Classic winner and Horse of the Year Authentic. Treasure delivered a full brother to National Treasure this past January.

Cogburn rising through the ranks

Clark Brewster and Bill and Corinne Heiligbrodt's Cogburn (USA) (Not This Time {USA}) continued his assault on the American turf sprint division with a jaw-dropping, front-running success in Saturday's G1 Jaipur S. at Saratoga, a 'Win and You're In' qualifying race for the G1 Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint at Del Mar in early November.

And if holding the form he's in currently, he will be a very difficult nut to crack.

The performance left his Hall of Fame trainer awestruck.

“I've had some of the fastest horses in the world, some of the fastest horses of all time, and he's still the first one I've ever had run 5.5 furlongs in under a minute,” said trainer Steve Asmussen, who won the 2011 Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint with Regally Ready (USA) (More Than Ready {USA}). “Five and a half furlongs in under a minute. That's not five-eighths five, that's five-and-a-half. That's basically a sixteenth of a mile faster than a fast horse.”

As good a turf sprinter as he has become, Cogburn was something other than an abject failure on dirt, amassing a record of 3-2-0 from eight starts, including a runner-up effort in the G3 Chick Lang S. at three. Switched to the grass around this time last year, Cogburn saluted in a pair of six-figure sprints at Lone Star before defeating future BC Turf Sprint victor Nobals (USA) (Noble Mission {GB}) in the G3 Troy S.

Cogburn is the sixth elite-level winner for Not This Time (USA), who was coincidentally represented by his first European winner when Shareholder (USA) won his maiden impressively at Beverley on Saturday.

Bellary Bloodstock acquired the stakes-winning In A Jif (USA) (Saintly Look {USA}) for US$26,000 (AU$39,500) carrying the colt that would become Cogburn at the 2018 Keeneland November Sale. A half-sister to a pair of black-type horses, In a Jif is the dam of Cogburn's yearling full brother and a colt foal by Epicenter (USA).

Son of Frankel, Measured Time gets Godolphin on the board in the Manhattan

For an operation so accustomed to success on these shores, the first two-plus days of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival proved surprisingly and disappointingly fruitless for Godolphin, trainer Charlie Appleby and jockey William Buick.

Siskany (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}) was flat as the heavy favorite in Thursday's G2 Belmont Gold Cup, while English Rose (Ire) (Frankel {GB}) was last but one as the pick in Friday's G1 New York S. Mischief Magic (Ire) (Exceed and Excel) was a fair fifth in Saturday's G1 Jaipur S. to add insult to injury but sent away at a fairly generous 3-1 in Saturday's G1 Manhattan S., the immaculately bred Measured Time (GB) (Frankel {GB}) proved the right elixir, as he came away late to best a classy field.

“It's been a long weekend,” Appleby admitted. “Things didn't go right with our other horses. At the end of the day he (Measured Time) was a class horse going into a Grade 1. They're all finding their way in the Grade 1s. As we know, at this level you can't really have any faults.

“We've earmarked this for some time thinking that the American tracks would suit him. Obviously, we saw what he did in Dubai. That kind of tracks, nice level tracks, suit him.”

“It was always the plan to go forward, sit forward,” Buick remarked. “He's a horse you never feel like you are going quick enough, so I was happy where I was. He was a bit competitive early on, but I always felt he was in a nice rhythm, and he's a real powerful galloper, as you saw there. He's still got a bit to learn, like he ran out on the home bend and it doesn't feel like he's a finished article just yet, but he sure has the raw talent.”

Appleby indicated that Measured Time could potentially take in a race like the G1 Arlington Million at Colonial Downs in a couple months time.

That race is also a strong possibility for Measured Time's globetrotting half-brother Rebel's Romance (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}), winner of the 2022 Turf at Keeneland and a Group 1 winner in Dubai and Hong Kong this season. Rebel's Romance is expected for Saratoga's G1 Sword Dancer S. in August.

Sheikh Mohammed's operation purchased Measured Time and Rebel's Romance's second dam Short Skirt, a half-sister to the multiple Group-winning and multiple Group 1-placed Whitewater Affair (GB) (Machiavellian {USA}), for 1.4 million guineas (AU$2.8 million) at the 2006 Tattersalls December Mares sale, and among her four other winners was G3 Nad Al Sheba Trophy winner Volcanic Sky (GB) (Street Cry {Ire}), while her unraced daughter Rose Law (GB) (New Approach {Ire}) produced Godolphin's Japanese Listed winner and Group 3-placed Due Process (GB) (Daiwa Major {Jpn}).

South Africa

Gary Player has amazing day out in South Africa

Legendary golfer Gary Player had a brilliant day out in South Africa on Saturday winning two of the three group races on the card at Greyville with horses he has shares in. Dave The King (SAf) (Global View {USA}), who Player also bred, won the G1 Gold Challenge over a mile by a significant margin to register his first stakes win. Player sold Dave The King as a yearling via Millstream Farm for R175,000 (AU$14,000) but stayed in the ownership along with L M Nestadt and Ralphs Racing (Pty) Ltd (Nom: Miss K Ralphs).

Dave The King became the first Group 1 winner and seventh stakes winner for Global View (USA), who is a son of Galileo (Ire).

Player also celebrated a win in the G2 Tibouchina S. with 3-year-old filly Double Grand Slam (SAf) (Vercingetorix {SAf}). Previously a dual Group 3 winner, Double Grand Slam took her record to five wins from 11 starts and is one of 37 stakes winners for her sire. Player purchased her from Varsfontein Stud for R1million (AU$80,600) at the TBA National Yearling Sale.

The other group race on the card, the G3 Greyville Cup Trial was won by Oriental Charm (SAf) (Vercingetorix {SAf}).

Daily News Wrap

Zouna ready for JJ Atkins

Brisbane’s Lawrie Mayfield-Smith will be out to join his famous brothers, Brian and Noel, as a Group 1-winning trainer in the G1 JJ Atkins at Eagle Farm on Saturday with Zouna (Zousain).

“The distance won’t worry him and his father, Zousain, ran in this race and just got beaten and he’s very stoutly bred on the dam’s side,” Mayfield-Smith told Racingqueensland.com.au.

“His last run was very good as he got off balance on the turn when another horse came out. Adin (Thompson) said it didn’t cost him the race, but he should have finished closer. Broadsiding won the Fernhill and Champagne S. in Sydney and that’s a good indicator he’s going to make a good 3-year-old.”

Winner of two of his five starts, Zouna ran second to Broadsiding (Too Darn Hot {GB}) last start in the G2 BRC Sires’ Produce S. Mayfield-Smith previously trained Freedom Road (Semipalatinsk) to finish third in the JJ Atkins in 1997.

Murphy expects Asfoora to improve for Ascot

Jockey Oisin Murphy is expecting improvement from Asfoora (Flying Artie) in the G1 King Charles III S. (previously King’s Stand S.) at Royal Ascot. “I thought Asfoora's run was very good at Haydock,” Murphy told Racing.com.

Asfoora | Image courtesy of The Image Is Everything

“The ground was quite tiring and Henry expected her to improve from the race, so with all that in mind, she wasn't beaten far. I hope she can come forward for her next start at Ascot. The Australian sprinters have a very good record at Ascot … and Asfoora has a good profile, plenty of decent form. It's probably a year where there isn't a standout older European sprinter, it's quite competitive without there being a star, so I'm certainly looking forward to riding her.”

Preusker trio ready for Stradbroke day

Paul Preusker is confident in landing a Queensland blow on Saturday with a trio of chances contesting feature races at Eagle Farm on Stradbroke H. Day. He has Steparty (Artie Schiller {USA}) in the G1 Stradbroke H., Poison Chalice (NZ) (Savabeel) in the Listed Wayne Wilson, and last year’s Ballarat Cup winner Captain Envious (NZ) (Savabeel) in the G2 Brisbane Cup.

Paul Preusker and Listed Ballarat Cup winner Captain Envious | Imge courtesy of Racing Photos

“He’s a terrific horse, I've got a lot of faith in him, still putting him together he’s a wildcard and he’s still got to mature up in the head,” Preusker told Racing.com about Poison Chalice.

Queensland’s Eyeliner S. target for Fancify

A trip to Queensland for the Listed Eyeliner S. is on the agenda for South Australian galloper Fancify (NZ) (Niagara) after her win at Flemington. “She will fly up for the Eyeliner on Tuesday,” trainer Michael Hickmott told Loveracing.nz. The mare was previously owned by Kiwi breeder Trish Dunell and recently purchased by Imperial Racing.

Michael Hickmott | Image courtesy of Magic Millions

"(Brother) Rob and I were talking about heading up and he's got Beltoro potentially going. Imperial Racing are the sponsor of the Eyeliner Stakes, so it's been a well thought out plan.” Fancify took her record to five wins from 10 starts with earnings over $240,000.

Gold Rush winner adds Swan Hill Cup win

Sunday’s Swan Hill Cup was won by Nick Ryan-trained Munhamek (GB) (Dark Angel {Ire}) for jockey Jamie Mott to take his record to 11 wins from 60 starts. Earlier this season, he won the G3 Gold Rush and he now has earnings over $2.3 million.

At the same meeting, jockey John Allen rode a treble on 3-year-old colt Revalene (Russian Revolution), Phair Plan (American Pharoah {USA}), and Khor (NZ) (Savabeel).

Two country cups in succession for Picaroon

Trainer Tom Dabernig’s 6-year-old mare Picaroon (Fiorente {Ire}) made it two Country Cups in succession when winning Sunday’s Apsley Cup at Edenhope. She won the Casterton Cup at her previous start and now has a record of eight wins and four placings from 27 starts.

Four for Blacker at Hobart on Sunday

Sunday’s Hobart meeting saw trainer John Blacker win four races with Twinkledust (Real Impact {Jpn}), Alpine Affair (Alpine Eagle), 3-year-old filly Press For Boom (Press Statement), and Zewinna (Tough Speed {USA}).

Juvenile Bonfire Spark wins again for Under The Louvre

Beaudesert trainer Olivia Cairns’ 2-year-old filly Bonfire Spark (Under The Louvre) took her record to two wins from four starts with a strong 1.3l win on the Sunshine Coast on Sunday. Julieta (Menari) was second while well-bred colt Fitzpatrick (Snitzel) was third.

Under The Louvre stands at Grandview Stud in Queensland and has three winners from his current crop of juveniles, which is his fourth crop.

Winter Cup target for Spencer

A trip south to contest the G3 Winter Cup at Riccarton in August could potentially be on the cards for Spencer (NZ) (Derryn) after he won on Saturday although he almost lost the race by shying before the winning post, nearly unseating jockey Lisa Allpress. “He is a quirky fella and he can shy. I wasn’t expecting that at the winning post,” Allpress told Loveracing.nz.

Spencer (blue cap) winning at Otaki on Saturday | Image courtesy of Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North)

“He is doing it so easy, I think he just lost concentration. … I think a race like the Winter Cup (would suit him). He needs to step up a bit more, but he has won over the mile before, so maybe he can get there.” Now the winner of two in a row, Spencer has won four of his 12 starts.

Carston almost wins the whole card at Timaru on Sunday

Riccarton-based trainer Andrew Carston won the first race at Timaru on Sunday with Lippy (NZ) (Tivaci) and trained second placed Domperion (NZ) (Telperion) in the second before the meeting was abandoned for safety reasons. “I never complain as safety comes first and I 100 per cent support the decision taken by officials,” Carston told Loveracing.nz.

“It was quite clear the horse slipped and while you feel for everyone concerned, no-one should be put in danger when this sort of thing happens. I guess the most disappointing aspect was this was likely to be the last decent track we get as winter hits.”

Andrew Carston | Image courtesy of Race Images South

Race two was won by Thee Auld Minx (Charm Spirit {Ire}) trained by Stephen Marsh. Afterwards, jockey Niranjan Parmar reported his mount, Uget What You Give (NZ) (Churchill {Ire}), had lost its footing in behind around the 1000 metres. Uget What You Give finished mid-field in sixth. After a track inspection revealed slip marks at that point on the track, which had been affected by intermittent rain during the morning, stipendiary stewards ordered an abandonment of the meeting.

150 group wins for Lemaire

Jockey Christophe Lemaire made it 150 Japanese group successes on Sunday when 4-year-old colt Lebensstil (Jpn) (Real Steel {Jpn}) won the G3 Epsom Cup over 1800m.

Lebensstil took his record to four wins from nine starts and this was his second group win, having previously won the G2 Asahi Hai Saint Lite Kinen last season. Real Steel (Jpn) shuttled to Australia for one season in 2019 and has three stakes winners from his first three crops in Japan.

Rainy winner in G3 Hakodate Sprint

Japan’s other group race on Sunday, the G3 Hakodate Sprint, was won by 5-year-old entire Satono Reve (Jpn) (Lord Kanaloa {Jpn}) under jockey Suguru Hamanaka for trainer Noriyuki Hori.

A last start Listed winner, Satono Reve has now won six of his eight starts with his other two being a second and a Group 3-fourth placing. In rainy conditions, Satono Reve ran out the 1200 metres in 1:08.4.

The Winnabe remains unbeaten with Hong Kong win

Exciting 3-year-old gelding The Winnabe (Caravaggio {USA}) took his record to two from two with a strong win at Sha Tin on Saturday night and was part of a double for trainer John Size and jockey Hugh Bowman. “He’s a lovely horse and I think this horse is going to run a little bit further,” Size told scmp.com. Size also won with Noble Win (Deep Field) and Bowman also won on Enjoy Golf (Pariah).

Treble for Purton at Sha Tin

Champion jockey Zac Purton picked up another treble at Sha Tin on Saturday night, headlined by the fifth straight win of Copartner Prance (Epaulette). “It was another good effort,” Purton told scmp.com.

“He began really well which helped – it was very fast mid-race – and I just waited for the right time, but he was good to the line. He just seems to keep doing enough.” The win also levelled the trainer’s premiership with Francis Lui and Pierre Ng now on 61 wins each.

Lack of prizemoney at Royal Ascot an issue for Ward

USA trainer Wesley Ward has won 12 races at Royal Ascot in the last 15 years but is finding it harder to convince his owners to make the trip given the relative prizemoney between America and England. “It's very expensive to get them over there and I don't want to be bringing over horses I'm not confident are going to run well,” Ward told Racingpost.com.

“There's been a lot of owners of mine over the years that have wanted to go over and have this experience, but it's very hard to win at Royal Ascot. … The money we run for at Ascot wouldn't be even the equivalent of a maiden race in the States.”

Debut winner heads to online sale

Recent 5l Saint-Cloud maiden winner 3-year-old filly Golden Belle (Fr) (Martinborough {Jpn}) will be offered in the next Auctav Flash Sale on June 14. “She has recently shown great improvement in training. Her win was very promising. She has all the qualities to be a good flat race filly over long distance and to transition to National Hunt if that is what her future connections wish,” said trainer Mathieu Brasme.

Golden Belle (Fr) | Image courtesy of Auctav

Click here to view the Auctav Flash Sale

Record turnover for Belmont meeting at Saratoga

Saturday's blockbuster Belmont Stakes Day card, highlighted by Dornoch's victory in the 156th running of the GI $2-million Belmont S. presented by NYRA Bets, generated all-sources handle of US$125,748,941 (AU$190.6 million), a New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) record for a non-Triple Crown year.

The 2024 all-sources handle figure is an increase of more than 6.3 per cent over the previous non-Triple Crown record of US$118,283,455 (AU$179 million), which was set in 2023.

Cox Plate winner Lys Gracieux’s pedigree dominates maiden race

In a quirky coincidence, the maiden race for 3-year-olds at Kyoto on Sunday was won by the full brother to G1 WS Cox Plate winner Lys Gracieux (Jpn) (Heart’s Cry {Jpn}), who is named Evolving, and in second was the first foal of Lys Gracieux, a colt named Schwertlilie (Jpn) (Maurice {Jpn}).

Daily News Wrap

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2024 Announced Stallion Fees


Ace High	High Chaparral	Rich Hill Stud, NZ	NZ$15,000 + GST	NZ$10,000 + GST	NZ$10,000 + GST
Acrobat	Fastnet Rock	Coolmore, NSW	$13,750	$13,750	$13,750
Admire Mars	Daiwa Major	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$22,000	$22,000	$22,000
Alabama Express	Redoute's Choice	Yulong, VIC	$55,000	$22,000	$22,000
All American	Red Ransom	Geisel Park Stud, WA	$4,400	$4,400	$6,600
All Too Hard	Casino Prince	Vinery, NSW	$38,500	$38,500	$38,500
Almanzor	Wootton Bassett	Cambridge Stud, NZ	NZ$30,000 + GST	NZ$50,000 + GST	NZ$50,000 + GST
Anamoe	Street Boss	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$121,000	$121,000
Anders	Not A Single Doubt	Widden Stud, NSW	$16,500	$16,500	$16,500
Ardrossan	Redoute's Choice	Waikato Stud, NZ	NZ$20,000 + GST	NZ$10,000 + GST	NZ$6,000 + GST
Armory	Galileo	Mapperley Stud, NZ	NZ$10,000 + GST	NZ$10,000 + GST	NZ$10,000 + GST
Artorius	Flying Artie	Newgate Farm, NSW	$22,000	$27,500	-
Astern	Medaglia D'Oro	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$16,500	$22,000
Aysar	Deep Field	Geisel Park Stud, WA	$8,800	$8,800	-
Banquo	Written Tycoon	Waikato Stud, NZ	NZ$3,000 + GST	NZ$3,000 + GST	NZ$4,000 + GST
BENBATL	Dubawi	Woodside Park, Vic	$22,000	-	-
Best Of Bordeaux	Snitzel	Coolmore, NSW	$19,250	$27,500	-
Bivouac	Exceed And Excel	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$55,000	$66,000	$66,000
Blue Point	Shamardal	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$44,000	$44,000	$66,088
Boulder City	Snitzel	Riverbank Farm, VIC	$4,400	$4,400	$5,500
Brave Smash	Tosen Phantom	Yarraman Park Stud, NSW	$33,000	$33,000	$22,000
Brazen Beau	I Am Invincible	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$33,000	$44,000	$44,000
Bruckner	Snitzel	Widden Stud, VIC	$11,000	$11,000
Brutal	O'Reilly	Newgate Farm, NSW	$16,500	$22,000	$22,000
Capitalist	Written Tycoon	Newgate Farm, NSW	$66,000	$77,000	$99,000
Casino Prince	Flying Spur	Vinery, NSW	$5,500	$5,500	$5,500
Castelvecchio	Dundeel	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$22,000	$27,500	$27,500
CHALDEAN	Frankel	Cambridge Stud, NZ	NZ$35,000 + GST	-	-
Churchill	Galileo	Coolmore, NSW	$19,800	$22,000	$22,000
Circus Maximus	Galileo	Windsor Park Stud, NZ	NZ$17,500 + GST	NZ$17,500 + GST	NZ$20,000 + GST
Contributer	High Chaparral	Mapperley Stud, NZ	NZ$18,000 + GST	NZ$18,000 + GST	NZ$20,000 + GST
Cool Aza Beel	Savabeel	Newhaven Park, NSW	$16,500	$16,500	$16,500
Cosmic Force	Deep Field	Newgate Farm, NSW	$11,000	$11,000	$11,000
CYLINDER	Exceed And Excel	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$44,000
Dalasan	Dalakhani	Riverbank Farm, VIC	$5,500	$5,500	-
Daumier	Epaulette	Twin Hills Stud, NSW	$16,500	$16,500	-
Delaware	Frankel	Woodside Park Stud, VIC	$7,700	$8,800	Private
Denman	Lonhro	Twin Hills Stud, NSW	$8,800	$8,800	$8,800
Diatonic	Lord Kanola	Yulong, VIC	$13,750	$13,750	-
Dirty Work	Written Tycoon	Widden Stud, VIC	$13,200	$13,200	$16,500
Dissident	Sebring	Riverdene Stud, NSW	$5,500	$5,500	$6,600
DON CORLEONE	Extreme Choice	Eureka Stud, QLD	$13,200	-	-
Doubtland	Not A Single Doubt	Widden Stud, VIC	$13,200	$13,200	$16,500
DOULL	Snitzel	Rosemont Stud, VIC	$11,000
Dundeel	High Chaparral	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$88,000	$82,500	$66,000
Encryption	Lonhro	Eureka Stud, QLD	$11,000	$13,200	$13,200
Embellish	Savabeel	Cambridge Stud, NZ	NZ$5,000 + GST	NZ$5,000 + GST	NZ$5,000 + GST
El Roca	Fastnet Rock	Westbury Stud, NZ	NZ$15,000 + GST	NZ$15,000 + GST	NZ$12,500 + GST
Exceedance	Exceed And Excel	Vinery, NSW	$33,000	$33,000	$33,000
Extreme Choice	Not A Single Doubt	Newgate Farm, NSW	$275,000	$275,000	Private
Extreme Warrior	Extreme Choice	Rosemont Stud, VIC	$16,500	$27,500	$24,750
Ferrando	Fast 'N' Famous	Westbury Stud, NZ	NZ$5,000 + GST	NZ$5,000 + GST	NZ$2,500 + GST
Fierce Impact	Deep Impact	Lovatsville, VIC	$13,750	$16,500	$16,500
Foxwedge	Fastnet Rock	Woodside Park Stud, VIC	$9,900	$11,000	$11,000
GENERATION	Snitzel	Lovatsville, VIC	$11,000	-	-
Ghaiyyath	Dubawi	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$27,500	$27,500	$27,500
Glenfiddich	Fastnet Rock	Aquis, QLD	$5,500	$8,800	$8,800
Gold Standard	Sebring	Widden Stud, VIC	,	$13,200	$17,600
GOLD TRIP	Outstrip	Lovatsville, VIC	$8,800	-	-
GOLDEN MILE	Astern	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$16,500
Grunt	O'Reilly	Yulong, VIC	$22,000	$22,000	$13,750
Hallowed Crown	Street Sense	Twin Hills Stud, NSW	$8,800	$8,800	$11,000
Hanseatic	Street Boss	Rosemont Stud, VIC	$16,500	$17,600	$17,600
Harry Angel	Dark Angel (Ire)	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$38,500	$33,000	$16,500
HAWAII FIVE OH	I Am Invincible	Vinery Stud, NSW	$16,500	-	-
Headwater	Exceed And Excel	Vinery Stud, NSW	$9,900	$13,200	$16,500
Hellbent	I Am Invincible	Yarraman Park Stud, NSW	$38,500	$38,500	$22,000
Hello Youmzain	Kodiac	Cambridge Stud, NZ	NZ$30,000 + GST	NZ$30,000 + GST	NZ$30,000 + GST
Heroic Valour	Fastnet Rock	Raheen Stud, QLD	$5,500	$7,700	$11,000
Hitotsu	Maurice	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$22,000	-	-
Home Affairs	I Am Invincible	Coolmore, NSW	$82,500	$99,000	$110,000
I Am Immortal	I Am Invincible	Swettenham Stud, VIC	$13,750	$13,750	$13,750
I Am Invincible	Invincible Spirit	Yarraman Park Stud, NSW	$275,000	$302,500	$247,500
Ingratiating	Frosted (USA)	Oakland Park, WA	$9,000	-	-
In The Congo	Snitzel	Newgate Farm, NSW	$27,500	$33,000	-
Invader	Snitzel	Aquis, QLD	$8,800	$11,000	$22,000
Jacquinot	Rubick	Widden Stud, NSW	$27,500	$33,000
Jonker	Spirit Of Boom	Aquis, QLD	$12,500	$16,500	$16,500
Jungle Cat (Ire)	Iffraaj (GB)	Telemon, QLD	$4,950	$8,800	$11,000
Kermadec	Teofilo	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$16,500	$16,500	$16,500
KING COLORADO	Kingman	Widden Stud, VIC	$16,500
King Of Comedy	Kingman	Novara Park Stud, NZ	NZ$7,000 + GST	NZ$7,000 + GST	NZ$7,000 + GST
King's Legacy	Redoute's Choice	Coolmore, NSW	$22,000	$27,500	$33,000
KING'S GAMBIT	I Am Invincible	Newgate Farm, NSW	$22,000	-	-
Kobayashi	I Am Invincible	Aquis, QLD	$15,000	$8,800	$8,800
Lean Mean Machine	Zoustar	Aquis, QLD	$13,200	$13,200	$17,600
Lightsaber	Zoustar	Darling View Thoroughbreds, WA	$6,600	$6,600	-
Lofty Strike	Snitzel	Swettenham, Vic	$22,000	-	-
Lucky Vega	Lope De Vega	Yulong, VIC	$16,500	$16,500	$19,250
Manhattan Rain	Encosta De Lago	Geisel Park Stud, WA	$8,250	$8,250	$8,800
Maurice	Screen Hero	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$55,000	$82,500	$82,500
Microphone	Exceed And Excel	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$27,500	$33,000	$38,500
MILITARIZE	Dundeel	Newgate Farm, NSW	$38,500	-	-
MO'UNGA	Savabeel	Newhaven Park, NSW	$27,500	-	-
NATIVE TRAIL	Oasis Dream	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$27,500	-	-
Nicconi	Bianconi	Widden Stud, VIC	$16,500	$22,000	$22,000
North Pacific	Brazen Beau	Newgate Farm, NSW	$16,500	$22,000	$22,000
Noverre	Savabeel	Waikato Stud, NZ	NZ$10,000 + GST	NZ$10,000 + GST	NZ$10,000 + GST
Ocean Park	Thorn Park	Waikato Stud, NZ	NZ$20,000 + GST	NZ$30,000 + GST	NZ$30,000 + GST
OFFICIATING (USA)	Blame (USA)	Aquis, QLD	$12,500	-	#VALUE!
Ole Kirk	Written Tycoon	Vinery, NSW	$55,000	$55,000	$55,000
Overshare	I Am Invincible	Widden Stud, VIC	$5,500	$8,800	$11,000
OZZMOSIS	Zoustar	Newgate Farm, NSW	$44,000	-	-
Paddington	Siyouni	Windsor Park Stud, NZ	$35,000 + GST	-	-
PANTHALASSA	Lord Kanaloa	Yulong, VIC	$16,500	-	-
Paulele	Dawn Approach	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$13,750	$16,500	$16,500
Peltzer	So You Think	Twin Hills Stud, NSW	$16,500	$16,500	$16,500
Pierata	Pierro	Yulong, VIC	$66,000	$44,000	$44,000
Pierro	Lonhro	Coolmore, NSW	$55,000	$82,500
Pinatubo	Shamardal	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$55,000	$55,000	$55,000
Playing God	Blackfriars	Darling View Thoroughbreds, WA	$49,500	$33,000	$27,500
Portland Sky	Deep Field	Widden Stud, NSW	$19,800	$22,000	$27,500
Press Statement	Hinchinbrook	Novara Park Stud, NZ	NZ$6,000 + GST	NZ$6,000 + GST	$8,800
Prince Of Caviar	Sebring	Riverbank Farm, VIC	$4,400	$4,400	$4,400
Profiteer	Capitalist	Newgate Farm, NSW	$11,000	$16,500	$16,500
Profondo	Deep Impact	Windsor Park Stud, NZ	NZ$17,500 + GST	NZ$17,500 + GST	-
Proisir	Choisir	Rich Hill Stud, NZ	NZ$80,000 + GST	NZ$70,000 + GST	NZ$17,500 + GST
Puissance De Lune	Shamardal	Swettenham Stud, VIC	$8,800	$14,300	$14,300
Rebel Dane	California Dane	Widden Stud, NSW	$11,000	$22,000	$27,500
Redente	Redoute's Choice	Riverbank Farm, VIC	$3,300	$3,300	$3,300
Redwood	High Chaparral	Westbury Stud, NZ	NZ$10,000 + GST	NZ$10,000 + GST	NZ$8,000 + GST
Reliable Man	Dalakhani	Westbury Stud, NZ	NZ$12,500 + GST	NZ$13,500 + GST	NZ$16,000 + GST
Rich Enuff	Written Tycoon	Woodside Park Stud, VIC	$13,200	$11,000	$8,800
Royal Meeting	Invincible Spirit	Lovatsville, VIC	$22,000	$11,000	$11,000
Rubick	Encosta De Lago	Swettenham Stud, VIC	$27,500	$27,500	$22,000
Russian Camelot	Camelot	Widden Stud, VIC	$19,800	$19,800	$22,000
Russian Revolution	Snitzel	Newgate Farm, NSW	$66,000	$88,000	$71,500
Satono Aladdin	Deep Impact	Rich Hill Stud, NZ	NZ$65,000 + GST	NZ$45,000 + GST	NZ$12,500 + GST
Savabeel	Zabeel	Waikato Stud, NZ	NZ$100,000 + GST	NZ$100,000 + GST	NZ$100,000 + GST
Saville Row	Makfi	Mapperley Stud, NZ	NZ$2500 + GST	NZ$2500 + GST	NZ$2500 + GST
Shalaa	Invincible Spirit	Woodside Park, Vic	$19,800	$22,000	$33,000
Shamexpress	O'Reilly	Windsor Park Stud, NZ	NZ$8,000 + GST	NZ$8,000 + GST	NZ$10,000 + GST
Shamus Award	Snitzel	Rosemont Stud, VIC	$38,500	$60,500	$88,000
SHINZO	Snitzel	Coolmore, NSW	$55,000	-	-
Shocking	Street Cry	Rich Hill Stud, NZ	NZ$12,500 + GST	NZ$12,500 + GST	NZ$12,500 + GST
Sidestep	Exceed And Excel	Telemon, QLD	$8,800	$8,800	$7,150
Signore Fox	Exceed And Excel	Alma Vale Thoroughbreds, NSW	$5,500	$9,900	-
Sizzling	Snitzel	Riverdene Stud, NSW	$5,500	$5,500	$6,600
Skilled	Commands	Riverbank Farm, VIC	$3,300	$3,300	$3,300
Smart Missile	Fastnet Rock	Twin Hills Stud, NSW	$13,200	$13,200	$16,500
Snitzel	Redoute's Choice	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$247,500	$247,500	$220,000
So You Think	High Chaparral	Coolmore, NSW	$77,000	$99,000	$93,500
Spirit Of Boom	Sequalo	Eureka Stud, QLD	$38,500	$38,500	$33,000
Splintex	Snitzel	Darling View Thoroughbreds, WA	$11,000	$11,000	$11,000
St Mark's Basilica	Siyouni	Coolmore, NSW	$38,500	$44,000	$44,000
Staphanos	Deep Impact	Novara Park Stud, NZ	NZ$15,000 + GST	NZ$15,000 + GST	NZ$7,000 + GST
Star Turn	Star Witness	Vinery, NSW	$27,500	$27,500	$27,500
Star Witness	Starcraft	Widden Stud, VIC	$8,800	$11,000	$14,300
Starspangledbanner	Choisir	Coolmore, NSW	$44,000	$33,000	-
State Of Rest	Starspangledbanner	Newgate Farm, NSW	$27,500	$44,000	-
Stay Inside	Extreme Choice	Newgate Farm, NSW	$55,000	$77,000	$77,000
Strasbourg	I Am Invincible	Rosemont Stud, VIC	private	$8,800	$11,000
Street Boss	Street Cry	Darley, Northwood Park, VIC	$66,000	$66,000
Stronger	Not A Single Doubt	Aquis, QLD	$9,900	$13,750	-
Super Seth	Dundeel	Waikato Stud, NZ	NZ$45,000 + GST	NZ$35,000 + GST	NZ$35,000 + GST
Sun City	Zoustar	Telemon, QLD	$8,800	$4,400	$4,400
Supido	Sebring	Widden Stud, NSW	$16,500	$19,800	$8,800
SWEET RIDE	Deep Field	Widden Stud, NSW	$11,000	-	-
Sweynesse	Lonhro	Novara Park Stud, NZ	NZ$10,000 + GST	NZ$10,000 + GST	NZ$9,000 + GST
Swiss Ace	Secret Savings	Westbury Stud, NZ	NZ$5,000 + GST	NZ$5,000 + GST	NZ$5,000 + GST
Sword Of State	Snitzel	Cambridge Stud, NZ	NZ$15,000 + GST	NZ$15,000 + GST	NZ$15,000 + GST
Tagaloa	Lord Kanaloa	Yulong, VIC	$22,000	$27,500	$30,250
Tassort	Brazen Beau	Newgate Farm, NSW	$38,500	$11,000	$11,000
Tarzino	Tavistock	Westbury Stud, NZ	NZ$20,000 + GST	NZ$25,000 + GST	NZ$15,000 + GST
The Autumn Sun	Redoute's Choice	Arrowfield Stud, NSW	$66,000	$66,000	$66,000
The Mission	Choisir	Aquis, QLD	$4,400	$8,800	$11,000
The Odyssey	Better Than Ready	Telemon, QLD	$5,500	$5,500	$5,500
Tiger Of Malay	Extreme Choice	Newgate Farm, NSW	$11,000	$16,500	$16,500
Tivaci	High Chaparral	Waikato Stud, NZ	NZ$8000 + GST	NZ$12,500 + GST	NZ$20,000 + GST
Too Darn Hot	Dubawi	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$110,000	$44,000	$44,000
Top Ranked	Dark Angel (Ire)	Raheen Stud, QLD	$7,700	$7,700	-
Toronado	High Chaparral	Swettenham Stud, VIC	$88,000	$88,000	$88,000
Trapeze Artist	Snitzel	Widden Stud, NSW	$55,000	$55,000	$55,000
TRIPLE TIME	Frankel (GB)	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$22,000	-	-
Turn Me Loose	Iffraaj	Windsor Park Stud, NZ	NZ$12,000 + GST	NZ$18,000 + GST	NZ$18,000 + GST
Vanbrugh	Encosta De Lago	Windsor Park Stud, NZ	NZ$8,000 + GST	NZ$10,000 + GST	NZ$6,000 + GST
Vadamos	Monsun	Rich Hill Stud, NZ	NZ$9000 + GST	NZ$12,500 + GST	NZ$15,000 + GST
Vancouver	Medaglia D'Oro	Woodside Park Stud, VIC	$9,900	$11,000	$15,400
Victor Ludorum	Shamardal	Darley, Kelvinside, NSW	$13,750	$16,500
War Decree	War Front	Inglewood Stud, NZ	$7,000 +GST	$5000 + GST	$5000 + GST
Wayed Zain	High Chaparral	Riverbank Farm, VIC	$2,200	$2,200	$2,200
Wild Ruler	Snitzel	Newgate Farm, NSW	$27,500	$38,500	$38,500
Winning Rupert	Written Tycoon	Geisel Park Stud, WA	$8,800	$7,700	$7,700
Wooded	Wootton Bassett	Swettenham Stud, VIC	$22,000	$22,000	$22,000
Wootton Bassett	Iffraaj	Coolmore, NSW	TBC	$93,500	$71,500
Written By	Written Tycoon	Widden Stud, NSW	$22,000	$27,500	$27,500
Written Tycoon	Iglesia	Yulong, VIC	Private	Private	$165,000
Xtravagant	Pentire	Newhaven Park, NSW	$22,000	$22,000	$24,750
Yes Yes Yes	Rubick	Coolmore, NSW	$19,250	$33,000	$38,500
Zousain	Zoustar	Widden Stud, NSW	$27,500	$22,000	$22,000
Zoustar	Northern Meteor	Widden Stud, NSW	$275,000	$220,000	$198,000

Debutants

1 min read

First-time starters lining up on Monday, June 10

2YO & 3YO Winners by Sire

First Season Sire Runners & Results

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First Season Sires’ Results

Results: Sunday, June 9

No first season sires' results

First Season Sires’ Runners

Runners: Monday, June 10

First Season Sire Results

First Season Sire Runners

Second Season Sire Runners & Results

Second Season Sires’ Results

Results: Sunday, June 9

Second Season Sires’ Runners

Runners: Monday, June 10

Second Season Sire Results

Second Season Sire Runners

NSW Race Results