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Hong Kong buyers flex their muscles at the NZB Ready To Run Sales

Written by
9 min read
The curtain closed on another successful New Zealand Bloodstock Ready to Run Sale, with Hong Kong buyers once again dominating the action. Leading the way was Mr KM Yeung, who purchased the top lot for the sale and became the sale’s biggest buyer by aggregate for the third consecutive year.

Cover image courtesy of New Zealand Bloodstock

At A Glance

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The top price on day two was NZ$825,000 paid for Lot 374, a Zoustar colt bought by Mr KM Yeung from the KB Bloodstock draft.

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Hong Kong buyers accounted for 41.45% of the total spend across the two days, buying 75 horses for NZ$17,195,000

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With 265 horses sold across the two days, the aggregate was NZ$41,407,500, which compared favourably to 2024 when 254 horses sold for NZ$38,593,500.

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Overall the average for the sale, which was NZ$156,255 for the two days, which was slightly up from 2024’s average of NZ$151,943

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The median increased to NZ$100,000 from NZ$90,000 in 2024.

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The clearance rate of 75% was a slight decrease on 2024’s clearance rate of 78%.

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The leading vendor by sales was Riversley Park with 34 horses sold for NZ$6,525,000, while the leading buyer was Hong Kong’s KM Yeung, who purchased 16 horses for NZ$3,570,000.

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Riversley Park have been the top vendors by aggregate for nine consecutive years.

Hong Kong buyers to the forefront

The strength and influence of the Hong Kong buying bench continued throughout Day 2 of the sale, with a high proportion of 2-year-olds destined for that racing jurisdiction.

Hong Kong buyers accounted for 41.45% of the total spend across the two days, purchasing 75 horses for NZ$17,195,000.

Among them was prominent owner KM Yeung, well known for campaigning Galaxy Patch (Wandjina), the Champion 4-year-old in Hong Kong. Yeung purchased 13 horses on Day 2, including the sale-topper, Lot 374, a Zoustar colt out of Hijack Hussy (Hussonet {USA}) from the KB Bloodstock draft. The colt boasts a close link to Yeung’s stable star, being related to Wandjina, the sire of Galaxy Patch.

Lot 374 - Zoustar x Hijack Hussy colt | Image courtesy of New Zealand Bloodstock

Yeung also purchased three lots on Day 1, bringing his total to 16 horses and cementing his position as the leading buyer at the Ready to Run Sale for the third consecutive year. His total spend reached NZ$3,570,000, averaging NZ$223,125 across Wednesday and Thursday.

It wasn’t just Yeung making his presence felt. On Day 2 alone, 21 separate buyers secured horses bound for Hong Kong, underlining the market’s ongoing strength and appetite for quality New Zealand bloodstock.

Soon-to-be Hong Kong trainer James Cummings was also active, purchasing three quality lots for a combined NZ$1,430,000. His haul included a Written Tycoon half brother to My Whisper (Frankel {GB}), a winner of three Group 3 races on the track, along with a Bivouac gelding for NZ$425,000 and an Exceedance gelding for NZ$230,000.

James Cummings | Image courtesy of The Image Is Everything

“I haven’t been here since early 2017, so it’s good to be back and seeing some familiar faces,” said Cummings, who is enduring a short break after being Godolphin’s head trainer in Australia.

“This is a very good sale. It’s a good set-up and there’s lots of clients here from Hong Kong. It’s definitely a hunting ground, and a happy one at that, for good quality Hong Kong gallopers.”

“It’s definitely a hunting ground, and a happy one at that, for good quality Hong Kong gallopers.” - James Cummings

Big, strong and powerful Zoustar tops the sale and heads to Hong Kong

Kit Brook’s KB Bloodstock presented Lot 374, a big, strong son of Australia's reigning Champion sire Zoustar, who became the new top lot for this year’s sale at NZ$825,000 when sold to Mr KM Yeung.

“He (Mr KM Yeung) has got a very nice superstar in Hong Kong that ran second in a Group race last time (Patch Of Theta). So he's looking for another superstar. He loves this one,” said Willie Leung of Magus Equine, speaking on behalf of Mr KM Yeung.

“He looks big and strong, so it’s likely we'll take him to Hong Kong earlier. And his half-brother in Hong Kong is doing very well.

“The last few years Mr Yeung has come to this sale, and he really gets behind it. He loves coming here and he loves bidding himself, he enjoys the sale very much. The first year we got two winners and they won nine races, so it's a good result, and last year we brought a couple as well.”

The colt is the fourth foal out of Hijack Hussy (Hussonet {USA}), a four-time winner up to 1400 metres who was successful in the Listed Lexus Hybrid Plate and placed in the G3 Vo Rogue Plate and the Listed Mode Plate.

In recent years, Hijack Hussy has produced a Jacquinot yearling colt and an Ozzmosis filly in September. He comes from the extended family of Group 1 winners and sires Dracula and Wandjina, as well as the outstanding Hong Kong sprinter Inspiration (Flying Spur), who won the G1 Hong Kong Sprint.

Son of Armory makes NZ$625,000

There were fireworks early on Day 1 when a sharp-looking colt by Armory (Ire), offered by Ohukia Lodge, sold to Cameron Cooke Bloodstock and Busuttin Racing for NZ$625,000. It was a massive result considering Armory stood for just $10,000 (plus GST) in his first season at Mapperley Stud, who had secured the Group 1-performed and multiple Group-winning son of the legendary Galileo (Ire) in partnership with Windsor Park Stud.

Armory has already made a fast start to his stud career, with the Cody Cole-trained Silhouette (NZ) winning on debut at Trentham late last month. This colt only furthered that momentum, turning heads with a slick breeze in 10.52 seconds, before strong competition in the ring pushed his price to the impressive $625,000 mark.

When asked about the purchase, made in partnership with Cameron Cooke Bloodstock, Trent Busuttin said:

“As an individual he is one of the picks of the sale. He was always going to be expensive, but you have to buy the ones that you like. Cameron Cooke, he selected him and he is a great judge of a horse, and we are lucky enough to get to train him.”

“We loved him, obviously. Armory has already had a winner, and it’s good to buy off New Zealand farms and New Zealand stallions, so we are very excited.”

Busuttin added that the colt stood out from the outset, with an impressive breeze-up and style about him.

“These kind of horses stand out, and everyone sees them. He’s a cracking horse, so we knew we were going to have to pay plenty. We went over budget a bit, but hopefully he repays us.”

Trent Busuttin | Image courtesy of The Image Is Everything

Bred by Windsor Park Stud, the colt is the seventh living foal from the five-time winner and Listed winner Cora Lynn (NZ) (Golan {Ire}). She has produced two winners, including the nine-time winner Weona Smartone (NZ) (Shamexpress {NZ}), who claimed eight of those victories in succession and has been Group 3-placed in Sydney.

Further back in the family sit elite performers Balmuse (NZ) (Lord Ballina) and Kaapstad Way (NZ) (Kaapstad {NZ}), both Group 1 winners who add further depth to this colt’s already impressive pedigree.

BMD Bloodstock’s $90K Hello Youmzain turns into $700K

Hello Youmzain (Fr) has made a promising start in Australasia, with his oldest progeny now 3-year-olds. He has already registered 16 winners across both sides of the Tasman, including the stakes winners Platinum Diamond (NZ) and Lucy In The Sky (NZ).

It may be a well-bought son from his second crop that keeps the momentum building for the Cambridge-based stallion. The colt, out of the three-time winner Cool Tart (NZ) (Zabeel {NZ}), was presented in superb fashion by BMD Bloodstock and made a splash when selling for NZ$700,000 to Mr Hongwei Chen of China. Barry Donoghue's operation have enjoyed a successful few days.

This good-looking colt was originally purchased by BBA Ireland Ltd, Hurworth Bloodstock and BMD Bloodstock for NZ$90,000 from the Windsor Park Stud draft at this year’s New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka National Yearling Sale. To turn NZ$90,000 into NZ$700,000 in around 10 months represents an outstanding pinhooking result.

“Today’s result with the Hello Youmzain colt was an enormous thrill and very special,” Donoghue said.

“Today’s result with the Hello Youmzain colt was an enormous thrill and very special.” - Barry Donoghue

“We knew we were going into the sale with a really nice horse and we were expecting him to be popular. But we had a reserve of only $150,000, and whatever happened beyond that was a bonus. We couldn’t be happier.”

BMD Bloodstock offered 16 horses across the two days of the Ready to Run Sale, selling 14 of them for a total of $2.69 million and an average price of $192,500.

Barry Donoghue | Image courtesy of New Zealand Bloodstock

The dam, Cool Tart, is a three-quarter-sister to the G1 Melbourne Cup, G1 Victoria Derby and G1 Turnbull Stakes winner Efficient (NZ) (Zabeel {NZ}), and a half-sister to the New Zealand Weight-for-age Group 1 winner On The Rocks (NZ) (Alamosa {NZ}), who claimed the G1 Herbie Dyke Stakes over 2000 metres at Te Rapa.

Jones reflects on successful sale

“It’s quite remarkable, another record-breaking sale,” commented NZB’s Bloodstock Sales Manager Kane Jones.

Kane Jones | Image courtesy of New Zealand Bloodstock

“The whole team have put in a massive shift, not just over the last few days, but months out, and even years building relationships for this sale. I’m very proud of the entire team.

“Just a magical number hitting that NZ$41m in turnover, but the average is up, median is up as well which indicates that middle market was particularly strong.

“This sale has gone from strength-to-strength in the last five years. The horses breezed phenomenally, and the type of horses that are brought to this sale improves year on year.

“It’s just a credit to the vendors who continue to support this sale and make it what it is,” added Jones.

Top Lots

374ZoustarHijack Hussy Colt KB Bloodstock Mr KM Yeung$825,000
371Written TycoonHersigh Colt Prima Park James Cummings$775,000
283Hello Youmzain (Fr)Cool Tart Colt BMD Bloodstock Mr Hongwei Chen$700,000
398Per Incanto (USA)Joan's a Jett Colt Trelawney Stud Ltd Shijiazhuang Hongtao Horse Breeding$700,000
285Armory (Ire)Cora Lynn Colt Ohukia Lodge Cameron Cooke / Busuttin Racing$625,000
335Ghaiyyath (Ire)Final Choice Gelding Landsdowne Park Ltd Ms B Yim$480,000
478The Autumn SunMummentum Gelding Riversley Park Ltd Mr WK Yip$425,000
310Sword of StateDuraaj Colt Kiltannon Stables Ltd Mr Tien Kay Chan$420,000
365Ghaiyyath (Ire)Hampton Classic Colt Ohukia Lodge Mark Newnham Bloodstock Pty Ltd$420,000
369I Am InvincibleHaraka Filly Prima Park Bjorn Baker Racing / Clarke Bloodstock (FBAA) / Ridgmont$360,000

Top Buyers

Mr KM Yeung16$3,570,000 $ 223,125
James Cummings3$1,430,000 $ 476,667
Mr Sanxiong Gao2$1,425,000 $ 712,500
Mark Newnham Bloodstock Pty Ltd4$1,105,000 $ 276,250
Mr Hongwei Chen2$970,000 $ 485,000
Patella Bloodstock Ltd3$965,000 $ 321,667
R Yiu3$915,000 $ 305,000
Mr Ryan Fownes3$830,000 $ 276,667
Magus Equine3$810,000 $ 270,000
Shijiazhuang Hongtao Horse Breeding1$700,000 $ 700,000

Top sires by aggregate

Per Incanto (USA)6$2,030,000 $ 338,333
Satono Aladdin (Jpn)7$1,473,000 $ 210,429
Zoustar3$1,295,000 $ 431,667
Sword of State5$1,280,000 $ 256,000
Noverre(NZ)10$1,274,000 $ 127,400
Wootton Bassett (GB)3$1,120,000 $ 373,333
Proisir6$1,100,000 $ 183,333
Hello Youmzain (Fr)4$1,070,000 $ 267,500
The Autumn Sun5$970,000 $ 194,000
Snitzel3$965,000 $ 321,667

Top sires by average (2 or more sold)

Ghaiyyath (Ire)2$900,000 $ 450,000
Zoustar3$1,295,000 $ 431,667
Wootton Bassett (GB)4$1,120,000 $ 373,333
Ole Kirk3$690,000 $ 345,000
Per Incanto (USA)13$2,030,000 $ 338,333
Snitzel3$965,000 $ 321,667
Harry Angel (Ire)6$860,000 $ 286,667
Alabama Express2$540,000 $ 270,000
Hello Youmzain (Fr)8$1,070,000 $ 267,500
Sword of State6$1,280,000 $ 256,000

Top vendors by aggregate

Riversley Park Ltd4634 $ 6,525,000 $ 191,912
Prima Park2218 $ 3,660,000 $ 203,333
Ohukia Lodge2516 $ 3,567,500 $ 222,969
KB Bloodstock2813 $ 3,460,000 $ 266,154
Kiltannon Stables Ltd2518 $ 3,220,000 $ 178,889
BMD Bloodstock1815 $ 2,845,000 $ 189,667
Kilgravin Lodge3522 $ 2,660,000 $ 120,909
Riverrock Farm2310 $ 1,830,000 $ 183,000
Westbury Stud4921 $ 1,372,500 $ 65,357
St Kilda Lodge177 $ 1,200,000 $ 171,429

Top vendors by average (2 or more sold)

Landsdowne Park Ltd124 $ 1,110,000 $ 277,500
KB Bloodstock2813 $ 3,460,000 $ 266,154
Trelawney Stud Ltd54 $ 930,000 $ 232,500
Ohukia Lodge2516 $ 3,567,500 $ 222,969
Prima Park2218 $ 3,660,000 $ 203,333
Riversley Park Ltd4634 $ 6,525,000 $ 191,912
BMD Bloodstock1815 $ 2,845,000 $ 189,667
Riverrock Farm2310 $ 1,830,000 $ 183,000
Kiltannon Stables Ltd2518 $ 3,220,000 $ 178,889
St Kilda Lodge177 $ 1,200,000 $ 171,429
Mr KM Yeung
Zoustar
KB Bloodstock
Willie Leung
Ohukia Lodge
Armory
Hello Youmzain
BMD Bloodstock

An industry to be proud of: Bring five mates to National Thoroughbred Week

Written by
6 min read
The final countdown is on for the inaugural National Thoroughbred Week, officially kicking off on November 20, and now the challenge is on for industry participants. Whose mind will you change for the better by bringing them to an event next week?

Cover iamge courtesy of The Image Is Everything

Seeing is believing - and next week, studs, stables, and equine veterinary practices across Australia and New Zealand will open their doors to the public for that very purpose in the inaugural National Thoroughbred Week.

Hosts across every state and territory, and both the North and South islands of New Zealand, have signed up to demonstrate the standard of care and level of passion that the industry has for the thoroughbred.

Click here to view the map of all 80 events around Australia and New Zealand

“I feel like the public often fails to realise just how big the industry is and how much depth there is to it,” said Nathan Skrivanic, Creative Manager for Kick Collective and Kick Up.

“There are almost 40,000 horses in training in Australia alone at any one time and the racing industry employs over 75,000 people. There’s 19,000 races per year in Australia - some people think there’s only eight and all on Melbourne Cup week!

“To me, National Thoroughbred Week is the key, opening our world up to the public and showing them how many people are employed by the industry, how many people love the industry and love the horses, and how many great stories there are to tell.”

The rise of anti-racing sentiment over the past 15 years has caused many in the industry to protectively retreat from the public eye, but Skrivanic pointed out that this can’t be the way forward.

“That’s why we started Kick Up,” he said. “You have to be open and transparent, because horse racing has nothing to hide and everything to be proud of.”

“You have to be open and transparent, because horse racing has nothing to hide and everything to be proud of.” - Nathan Skrivanic

And that's the thesis of National Thoroughbred Week: let them see just how great our industry is.

Bring five mates to National Thoroughbred Week

Just as it’s a chance for the industry to invite people in, it’s up to participants to make sure that welcome is extended to anyone and everyone. A large part of National Thoroughbred Week is the 'Bring Five Mates' initiative, encouraging participants to reach out to friends and family who might benefit from attending one of the events.

“The point of the week is giving the everyday Australian the chance to see what happens behind the scenes. But we don't yet have a database or the budget to reach all those people, without some help.

“So we're putting the challenge out there for every trainer, strapper, jockey, breeders, racing fans to tell five mates that National Thoroughbred Week is happening, and to come along to all of these events - because they’re going to learn a lot and have a lot of fun as well.”

“We're putting the challenge out there for every trainer, strapper, jockey, breeders, racing fans to tell five mates that National Thoroughbred Week is happening.” - Nathan Skrivanic

For those mates who don’t know a hoofpick from a headcollar, some of Australasia’s premier breeding operations - including the likes of Arrowfield Stud, Yulong Stud, and Cambridge Stud - will be opening their paddocks and their breeding barns for visitors to meet foals and see how the lifecycle of the horse begins.

For the family who are only aware of the G1 Melbourne Cup, trainers like Chris Waller, Annabel and Rob Archibald, Ciaron Maher, and Ballymore Racing are hosting open mornings with the opportunity to get up close and personal with stable stars, and witness their every day care.

Caulfield’s official jump-outs on Thursday, November 20, will be open to the public, and Breakfast With The Stars returns to Sunshine Turf Club on Tuesday, November 18, with The Industry School on hand to discuss educational pathways into the racing world.

“If anyone’s ever asked you a question about working in racing, or had a question on Cup week, whether it’s about welfare or how a part of the industry works - those are the people that we think you should invite to come along with you to National Thoroughbred Week and to experience the whole industry,” said Skrivanic.

Every corner of the industry

There are a number of enticing opportunities over National Thoroughbred Week to catch a glimpse of lesser-seen parts of the industry; for the family member who doesn’t know about the heights that the industry will go to in the name of veterinary care, there are tours of Scone Equine Hospital’s state-of-the-art facility and its Victorian partner Avenel Equine Hospital on offer, as well as MVS Equine Hospital in Matamata.

Scone Equine Hospital recently celebrated the first anniversary of their CT machine, technology which has been a recent hot topic in the industry due to its role in ensuring another safe Melbourne Cup carnival.

“I think a lot of people will find that really interesting,” Skrivanic said. “I doubt a lot of people will have been able to walk through Scone Equine Hospital.”

The Equine Genetics Research Centre laboratory in Scone, which processes DNA identification for all thoroughbreds born in Australia, will be opening their doors for guided tours on Thursday, November 20, where visitors can learn about the integral role the laboratory plays in Racing Australia’s operations and the research projects currently being conducted by staff.

Another event worth highlighting is Thenford Farm’s open morning on Saturday, November 22, where the breaking and pretraining facility will demonstrate to visitors the steps a young horse goes through over a standard month-long breaking-in process. Visitors will get an overview of the whole process that turns yearling sale graduates into confident young racehorses ready for their first preparation at the track.

For the friend who has asked, ‘what happens to the slow ones?’, life after racing will be on display as well. Highly respected retainers such as JW Equestrian and Abey Performance Horses in Victoria are inviting the public in, as is Queensland’s Racing Hearts McIntyre Centre, which provides both retraining and equine assisted therapy.

And if you find a young friend who's been converted, Thoroughbred Breeders Australia will be attending the Camden Careers & Jobs Expo on Thursday to discuss educational and career opportunities in the industry. We know that our industry has so much to offer - it's the perfect opportunity to prove that to everyone else.

Click here to view a full list of hosts and events for National Thoroughbred Week
National Thoroughbred Week
Kick Up

Job Board

3 min read

On today's Job Board:

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Magic Millions - Social Media & Marketing Assistant

Social Media & Marketing Assistant

Department: Marketing

Special Conditions: Weekends and out-of-hours work required throughout the year

Employment Status: Full time

About Magic Millions

Magic Millions Sales Pty Ltd is Australia’s premier thoroughbred auction house, hosting 15 sales annually across the Gold Coast, Adelaide, Perth, Launceston, and Darwin. Our flagship Magic Millions Carnival, Gold Coast Yearling Sale and Raceday held on the Gold Coast each January has grown to Australia’s number one summer carnival and is the centrepiece of Australia’s summer racing calendar attracting a diverse audience of national and international visitors.

What we offer you

The opportunity to shape Australia’s leading thoroughbred sales events

A dynamic and passionate team in a high-profile, fast-paced industry

National exposure and client engagement across premium racing networks

A chance to grow a long-term career within a respected and trusted brand

About the Role: Social Media & Marketing Assistant will primarily focus on creation and execution of meaningful and accurate social content which is in line with the Magic Millions brand. In addition, this role will support the Marketing, Events and Bloodstock departments by contributing to the administration of event planning, and the production of other targeted marketing materials

Key Responsibilities
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Create, schedule and publish engaging content on Facebook and Instagram, including weekend posts celebrating graduate success, with scope to expand into additional platforms.

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Support the management of Magic Millions X account.

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Coordinate personalised client gifts and assist with client relationship initiatives.

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Administration of media accreditation for key events.

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Assist with the development of key marketing materials by liaising with internal teams (Marketing, Events, Bloodstock and Digital) and our contracted designer.

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Assist with website updates and maintenance.

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Edit and prepare videos for sharing with media and clients.

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Maintain and update photo albums with graduate results weekly.

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Catalogue and archive new video content after each event.

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Assist in the development and distribution of marketing materials, press releases, event communications and direct mail campaigns.

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Attend events as required to provide hands-on operational support.

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Perform other general administrative and ad hoc support tasks to assist the Marketing, Media & Events team as required.

About You
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You’re a creative and proactive team player who thrives in a busy, event-driven environment.

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You have an eye for detail, and a genuine interest in social media and marketing.

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You’re also confident juggling multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.

What We're Looking For
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Tertiary qualifications in Marketing, Communications or a related field.

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Minimum 1-year experience in social media management.

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Work experience within the Thoroughbred Racing or Breeding industries with a sound understanding of horses, and the ability to ‘speak the language’.

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Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal).

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Strong attention to detail.

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Highly organised, self-motivated, and comfortable with frequent weekend work.

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Proven ability to manage multiple projects in a fast paced, deadline driven environment.

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A team oriented approach, with proven ability to collaborate effectively with a range of internal stakeholders.

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Proficient in Microsoft Office.

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Knowledge of WordPress and Mailchimp.

Desirable
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Experience in photography

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Experience with design programs – eg. Adobe Photoshop, Indesign and Canva

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Experience with video editing – eg. Adobe Premiere

How to Apply

Ready to Join the Team? If you’re passionate about thoroughbreds and excited to contribute to the success of Australia’s premier thoroughbred auction house, apply now by sending your cover letter and CV to: Kim Arnel at Kim.Arnel@peopleandkapability.com.au by Friday, 21 November 2025.

Magic Millions
Social Media Assistant

Foal Focus: 'An impressive sort of colt out of a half to Vinnie'

Written by
4 min read
In today’s Foal Focus, Alison Hush from Davali Thoroughbreds is delighted with a Zousain colt out of the farm’s resident mare Marielle. The well-related mare is by Lonhro and is a half-sister to the champion sire I Am Invincible.

Davali Thoroughbred's picked up Marielle (Lonhro) for only $45,000 via the Magic Millions National Broodmare Sale, where she appealed on two fronts, both type and pedigree.

It has been a mixed bag early days for Marielle (Lonhro) and Davali Thoroughbreds with her Bivouac colt failing to sell as a yearling, but things are on the up with a lovely Zousain filly heading towards the Inglis Classic Yearling Sale next year, and a strong, mature looking Zousain colt born this spring for this well-bred daughter of Lonhro.

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Gallery: Zousain x Marielle colt, born at Davali Thoroughbreds

The story behind Marielle

The Davali Thoroughbreds story with Marielle began at the 2021 Magic Millions National Broodmare Sale, where the Lonhro mare was purchased for $45,000 as part of the Gainsborough Lodge dispersal.

“We picked her up at the Magic Millions broodmare sale for $45,000,” Hush said.

“After seeing her Vancouver colt sell for $320,000 at the Magic Millions, it gave us good confidence that the mare could leave a type, so that appealed, and the fact that she was a good-looking Lonhro mare and a half to I Am Invincible gave us confidence to have a go.”

Marielle | Image courtesy of Magic Millions

When asked about what kind of type the mare is, Hush said:

“The mare has a bit of presence. She is a Lonhro, and has that real Lonhro look about her, and she has a very pretty head.”

As for what drew them to purchase Marielle, Hush explained that it was a combination of pedigree and type that sealed the deal.

“It was definitely a bit of both. She has a strong pedigree and she is a nice type – she ticked both boxes.”

“It was definitely a bit of both. She (Marielle) has a strong pedigree and she is a nice type – she ticked both boxes.” - Alison Hush
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How has Marielle done at stud for Davali?

It’s been a mixed start for Marielle at stud, but signs are certainly pointing in the right direction. Her Bivouac colt failed to sell as a yearling, yet the tide appears to be turning with a lovely Zousain filly heading towards the Inglis Classic Yearling Sale next year, and a strong, mature-looking Zousain colt born this spring out of the well-bred daughter of Lonhro.

Hush reflected that part of the reason they were able to secure Marielle for such good value was her somewhat inconsistent breeding record prior to joining the Davali broodmare band.

“She hadn’t had a lot of luck at stud before we bought her,” Hush said. “She’d missed a few times throughout her breeding career, so that probably worked in our favour when it came to buying her.”

Zousain | Standing at Widden Stud

The first foal Davali bred from Marielle was the Bivouac colt, and while things didn’t go to plan in the sale ring, he’s since found a new path - now named Southport and currently in training with Brad Widdup.

“He was a really immature type as a yearling and he didn’t make his reserve at Easter,” Hush explained. “We kept a share and he is with Brad Widdup and he isn’t too far away from trialling.”

The mare has since produced a “really nice” Zousain filly that will head to the Inglis Classic Sale next year, and that success prompted Davali to revisit the Widden-based sire.

“She then had a really nice filly by Zousain that is heading towards the Inglis Classic Sale next year, and on the back of her we decided to send her back to Zousain.”

A strong, powerful colt born this spring

When asked about the colt Marielle produced in late September, Hush commented:

“The colt she has produced is impressive, he definitely isn’t immature and is strong, he has a deep jowl, great hindquarter, good power and good bone. He is quite an impressive sort of colt.”

Marielle with her Zousain colt at foot | Born at Davali Thoroughbreds

On plans for this spring and where the mare may be heading next, Hush said:

“The mare hasn’t been served yet, but she has a booking to Cosmic Force. I really like that mating and think he is good value for a proven stallion.

“So let’s see how we go, but I am excited about both of her progeny by Zousain, and I like this mating, so let’s see how we go.”

Foal Focus
Davali Thoroughbreds
Alison Hush
Zousain
Widden Stud
I Am Invincible
Cosmic Force

Foal Showcase

1 min read

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

Shinzo x Beauty colt | Born at Glastonbury Farm

Officiating x Urban Jewel Colt | Born at Aquis Farm

Super Seth x Savito (NZ) filly | Born at Waikato Stud

1/3
Foal Showcase

Daily News Wrap

11 min read

Hunter winner back for another crack

Trainer Joe Pride’s Coal Crusher (Turffontein) won The Hunter in 2023, then ran into Briasa (Smart Missile) last year. He’s back on Saturday for another crack at the $1 million race. “He loves the track which helps him. Right from the start when I first took him to Newcastle he ran well so it’s a combination of those things. The timing is spot on for him,” Pride told racingnsw.com.au.

Coal Crusher | Image courtesy of Sportpix

“Last year was a disaster, he got caught in a speed dual with I Am Me in that race and it took the stuffing out of him. He couldn’t lead last year and he still ran great to run third but he wasn’t going as well.” Pride also runs Estadio Mestalla (Ire) (Galileo Gold {GB}), Accredited (All Too Hard) and Golden Mile (Astern) in the race.

Racing Victoria financials heading in correct direction

On Thursday, Racing Victoria announced an $8.8 million loss for the past financial year, but this was an improvement on the $11 million loss for the previous year. “The goal is this year (break even), those last two years we budgeted for deficits, the board said in order to maintain industry investment in the face of declining wagering and other changes we would take the deficit and we achieved slightly better results than planned,” Racing Victoria CEO Aaron Morrison said.

“This year (FY26) as a team we're budgeting for at least a break-even result.” Victoria’s wagering had a 4% decline but was still the highest wagering figure for any of the states and territories across Australia at $7.611bn turnover. Wagering has increased for this season with a record amount wagered on Cup day.

Aaron Morrison | Image courtesy of Racing Victoria

“Our focus in FY25 was on improving promotion of the sport and engagement with a broader audience, striving for greater transparency and collaboration with industry stakeholders, ensuring our business model is lean and efficient, and maximising returns to participants and those who invest in our sport,” Morrison said.

“The results of the last financial year, and those realised thus far across a brilliant 2025 spring racing carnival, demonstrate that we are on the right trajectory, balancing prudent financial management with ongoing investment to grow and support our industry and its key people and stakeholders.

“There is plenty of cause for optimism in Victorian racing … as we look ahead to FY26, our focus will be on telling our stories and growing engagement with racing across a broader audience, a continuation of prudent financial management, and ongoing support for, and engagement with, participants and owners.”

Long Legs takes on G3 Spring Stakes

Last start maiden winning 3-year-old filly Long Legs (Russian Revolution) rises sharply in grade to run in Saturday’s G3 Spring Stakes at Newcastle. “She really put the foot down and took it up and basically ran them into the ground,” trainer Gary Portelli told racenet.com.au.

Long Legs | Image courtesy of Georgia Young Photography

“I don't know if that is the way we will ride her on the weekend but certainly she will be up there somewhere. She gets a dry track there and that's a question mark we've got to get through because every time she's been there she has been on a wet track. She has to step up on a dry track but a mile will suit her, the tempo will be steadier and it gives her a chance to get into a rhythm.

“She is big, strong. It's been an interesting journey with her because she was a tricky filly to ride early on, she had ability but was difficult. We've got a good little rider who rides her in trackwork every morning and then we put Andrew Calder on to get her educated for trial day because she was tricky. She has come good with time and we are happy with where she is now.”

Heathcote’s Hatchet to bury Gollan in Noud

Trainer Rob Heathcote thinks his last start second-placed Hatchet (Worthy Cause) can prevent Tony Gollan from a record sixth victory in Saturday’s Listed Keith Noud Handicap. “It’s a tough race but he’s a decent chance because he’s so tough and honest,” Heathcote told racingqueensland.com.au.

“It may well be he’s not quite good enough but he’s as good as Extremist who won this race two years ago. It was a really good win and it was expected the day he won at Doomben two starts ago but he needed the run last start when he ran second. He was beaten by Epic Proportions who looks to be a really good horse.”

Yes Yes Yes has Guineas prospect

Gooree Stud’s resident sire Yes Yes Yes has a strong contender for Saturday’s G1 2000 Guineas in New Zealand with Pam Gerard-trained Affirmative Action, who was a Listed winner two starts ago. “He doesn’t know much different with a wide gate, so if we don’t tell him he won’t know,” Gerard told Loveracing.nz.

Affirmative Action | Image courtesy of Kenton Wright (Race Images)

“I’m still learning a bit about him really, it’s hard to get a line on him as he’s such a laid-back fellow that you might think hasn’t got any more in the tank, but George (Rooke, jockey) assures me there’s plenty left. He just jumps and puts himself there in his races and completely buttons off.”

Sold by Marquee Stud at the Inglis Sydney Weanling Sale for $40,000 to Odyssey Bloodstock, he was on-sold by Wentwood Grange at the New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale for NZ$115,000 to Ballymore Stables, Paul Moroney and Catheryne Bruggeman.

Green Spaces steps up to Group 3 level

Trainer Bjorn Baker’s last start winning 3-year-old colt Green Spaces (Street Boss {USA}) will step up into the G3 Spring Stakes at Newcastle on Saturday. “It’s a little bit of a grand final for him, he’s the fresh horse on the scene and is improving all the time at home,” Baker’s racing manager Luke Hilton told racingnsw.com.au.

Bjorn Baker | Image courtesy of Georgia Young Photography

“This will probably pull him up and we’re thinking there might be some nice races in the autumn. He’s a nice progressive horse, just getting out in trip has been the key to him. He was fantastic first-up at Hawkesbury and then he backed it up with a good performance at Wyong.”

Interesting juveniles step out at trials

At Warwick Farm’s trials on Thursday, the two juvenile heats showcased some interesting youngsters. Gary Portelli-trained colt Regal Profit (Capitalist) won his 800 metre heat by 1.4 lengths. He was a $100,000 purchase by his trainer from Newgate Farm’s Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale draft.

Bjorn Baker-trained filly I Am Dirty (I Am Invincible) won her heat easily by 2.5 lengths, and she was a $600,000 purchase from Ridgmont’s Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale draft.

Hanseatic adds a new winner

Second season sire Hanseatic added winner number 15 when Mark Milton-trained 3-year-old filly Ring My Bell won at Quirindi on Thursday. She was a $16,000 purchase via Inglis Digital in September 2025. Ring My Bell is the last foal, and sixth winner for winning mare Movin’ Out (Encosta De Lago), a half-sister to Group 3 winner Murjana (Giant’s Causeway {USA}).

Another winner for Farnan

G1 Golden Slipper winner and second season sire Farnan added winner number 22 when Scott Singleton-trained 3-year-old filly Rainbow Blessing won at Quirindi on Thursday by a massive 4.2 lengths.

Rainbow Blessing is the fourth winner, from as many to race, for stakes placed African Rainbow (Foxwedge).

US$1.3 million Bishops Bay tops Keeneland

A day after the Keeneland November Breeding Stock Sale closed with new records in the average and median prices, there were more headlines made Wednesday afternoon when recent G3 Forty Niner Stakes winner Bishops Bay (Uncle Mo) was knocked down to bloodstock agent Pedro Lanz, agent for Saudi Arabia's KAS Stables, for a record US$1.3 million (AU$1.98 million) in the first 30 minutes of trade during the auction house's standalone Horses of Racing Age Sale.

The previous Keeneland HORA Sale record was the US$1 million (AU$1.5 million) paid for the 2-year-old colt Extortion (Into Mischief) in 2022. The HORA sale is in its fourth year as a separate auction.

The 5-year-old entire was one of three horses to sell for better than a half-million dollars during a 3.5 hour session where 108 horses changed hands for US$10,455,000 (AU$15.9 million), an increase of 21.39% over last year. The average of US$96,806 (AU$147,200) represented a gain of 18.01%, while the median price of US$40,000 (AU$60,800) declined by 20%.

“This was a strong finish to a remarkable sales season,” Keeneland Vice President of Sales Tony Lacy said. “Setting a record for top price in this format is very satisfying and reflects an ongoing demand for quality, race-ready horses as we move into a new season.

“The momentum we've seen throughout the year carried right through to the end, and we are grateful to all the buyers and sellers whose participation and confidence make success like this possible.”

Saudi Cup is target for sale topping Bishops Bay

Beyond any shadow of a doubt, the launching of the Saudi Cup in 2020 has dramatically altered the trajectory of horses-of-racing-age sales in Central Kentucky and further afield. Bishops Bay is the latest to tick the necessary boxes, according to bloodstock agent Pedro Lanz, who purchased him.

“All year,” the agent told Keeneland media when asked how long the 5-year-old has been on his radar. “That's a typical horse that can work for us. I was watching the replays and I recommended this horse because he is a very honest horse: 12 starts, eight wins, three seconds. It's a very honest horse and I think he will be fine.

“We have the (G2) Cigar Mile (at Aqueduct on December 6). We will talk to Brad Cox and that's a possibility. We have the option to continue training the horse in quarantine for the Saudi Cup in Saudi Arabia, not confirmed yet.

“If we win the (G3) King's Cup (Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup) against local-trained horses, we have a pass. We qualify. If we win the Cigar Mile and we get a nice high rating, that's another way. We have to receive an invitation from the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia.”

Frankel's Aimeric headlines Tattersalls Online Sale

Aimeric (Frankel) (Lot 65), who has placed multiple times at listed level, is one of 186 lots catalogued in the Tattersalls Online November Sale on November 18-19. Out of Aris (Danroad), the 6-year-old gelding is a half-brother to G1 Prix de la Foret hero and sire Aclaim, as well as the GIII Soaring Softly Stakes heroine Queen Picasso (Kingman).

A breeding right in both Harry Angel (Lot 184) and Palace Pier (Lot 185) will go under the hammer. In addition, a 1/80th stallion share in Supremacy (Lot 186) is also available. Among the various lots are 102 horses in and out of training, 63 yearlings, 16 broodmares, two breeding rights, one stallion share, one foal and one store.

Dale Romans to run for United States Senate

Thoroughbred trainer Dale Romans will run for the United States Senate in Kentucky, according to a press release from his campaign Wednesday morning, calling himself an “independent Democrat.”

Romans will face Amy McGrath in the Democratic primary on Tuesday, May 19. The general election for the seat being vacated by longtime Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell is scheduled to be held November 3. The winner of the Democratic primary is expected to face U.S. Congressman Andy Barr.

“I've been in Kentucky my entire life. It's the greatest place in the world and the heart of America. We need a Senator who reflects our people: not polished insiders or party-line politicians running the same old partisan nonsense, but someone who has built a career the hard way and lived the struggles that Kentucky's working families face every day,” said Romans.

“To solve the challenges before us, we need a fix, not a fight. As an independent Democrat, I won't be beholden to the national party, and I won't be a puppet of the president like a freshman Republican Senator would be. I love Kentucky, and I know our state needs a Senator in Washington focused on our people.”

Daily News Wrap

Looking Ahead - November 14

4 min read

Looking Ahead highlights runners of interest across Australia and New Zealand. Whether they are an exceptionally well-bred or high-priced runner early in their career chasing maiden success, a promising galloper returning to the track or a horse that has trialled particularly well, we’ll aim to give you something to follow.

Two exciting 3-year-old fillies by Zoustar and Too Darn Hot (GB) go head-to-head at Canterbury Park on Friday night.

Canterbury Park, Race 3, 7pm AEDT, P’Nut Street Noodles Maiden Handicap, $60,000, 1100m

Pyrolysis, 3-year-old filly (Zoustar x Princess Wildfire {Sepoy})

Pyrolysis (Zoustar) attempts to break her maiden at her third start at Canterbury on Friday for trainer Bjorn Baker. She showed promise as a juvenile with two strong placings at Gosford and Warwick Farm - the latter behind the talented Tomato Toastie (Too Darn Hot {GB}).

Based on her two trial wins this preparation, it shouldn’t take her long to build a handy record as a 3-year-old.

Pyrolysis as a yearling | Image courtesy of Inglis

Pyrolysis boasts a deep pedigree. She is the fourth foal out of Princess Wildfire (Sepoy), who was placed on the track, and is a half-sister to Group 1 winning stallion Star Witness, three-time Group 3 winner and sire Nostradamus, and the Listed winner Embracer (Sebring). She is also a three-quarter-sister to Elusive Leone (Elusive Quality {USA}), dam of three-time stakes winner Vulpine (Snitzel).

Since producing Pyrolysis, Princess Wildfire has foaled a 2-year-old colt named Basston (Wootton Bassett {GB}) that is being trained by the Lindsay Park team, a yearling filly by Justify (USA), and produced a Shinzo colt in August.

Pyrolysis was initially purchased by Alter Bridge Equine for $210,000 from the Widden Stud draft at the 2023 Magic Millions Gold Coast National Weanling Sale, before being passed in short of her $200,000 reserve at the 2024 Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale.

Canterbury Park, Race 3, 7pm AEDT, P’Nut Street Noodles Maiden Handicap, $60,000, 1100m

Sword Of Legacy, 3-year-old filly (Too Darn Hot (GB) x Kaiken {Exceed And Excel})

The well-bred Sword Of Legacy (Too Darn Hot {GB}) is set to make her first run as a 3-year-old over 1100 metres at Canterbury on Friday for her new trainer Chris Waller.

She has run outstanding races so far in her career including a very good second behind Cavalry Girl (Bivouac) on debut down the straight at Flemington, and then was nosed out in the G3 Chairman’s Stakes at Sandown by Inkaruna (I Am Invincible) in February, before running fourth in the Listed Talindert Stakes behind Tentyris (Street Boss {USA}) a couple weeks later.

Sword Of Legacy as a yearling | Image courtesy of Inglis

Sword of Legacy is a daughter of the classy Too Darn Hot (GB) and is out of the winning Exceed And Excel mare Kaiken. She is a half-sister to the classy New Approach (Ire) mare Sword Of Light who won five times including in the G2 Let’s Elope Stakes, and the G3 Blue Diamond Preview (f). Another half-sibling is the Listed winning Medaglia D’Oro (USA) gelding Sword Of Justice.

The family is very current and is full of other Group winners including Flamberge (Exceed And Excel), Razor Blade (Blazing Sword), Sunburnt Land (Scenic {Ire}), Durendal (Medaglia D’Oro {USA}) and Curtana (Exceed And Excel).

Kaiken, since producing Sword Of Legacy, has left a yearling filly by Justify (USA), and a filly foal by Harry Angel (Ire).

Sword Of Legacy was passed in short of her $220,000 reserve at the 2024 Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale.

Looking Back

Kalizma (So You Think {NZ}) - Was scratched from her race at Seymour.

Immortal Storm (I Am Immortal) - Ran second in his race at Port Macquarie, he was a touch disappointing as a hot favourite.

Looking Ahead
Looking Back
Horses
New Zealand Bloodstock
Magic Millions
Race Horse
Racing
Horses
Inglis

NSW Race Results

Port Macquarie (Country)

Quirindi (Country)

Race result inclusion criteria: all city and provincial races, + country maiden, 3YO & feature races ($15,000) run before 6pm AEDT

VIC Race Results

bet365 Seymour (Country)

Race result inclusion criteria: all city and provincial races, + country maiden, 3YO & feature races ($15,000) run before 6pm AEDT

Race Results

QLD Race Results

Ipswich (Provincial)

Race result inclusion criteria: all city and provincial races, + country maiden, 3YO & feature races ($15,000) run before 6pm AEDT

WA Race Results

Bunbury (Provincial)

Race result inclusion criteria: all city and provincial races, + country maiden, 3YO & feature races ($15,000) run before 6pm AEDT

Debutants

1 min read
First-time starters lining up on Friday, November 14
Horses
Horse Racing
Debutants

2YO & 3YO Winners by Sire

Sire
Winner
Horses
Horse
Racing
Horse Racing

First Season Sire Runners & Results

1 min read

First Season Sires’ Results

Results: Thursday, November 13

No first season sires' results

First Season Sires’ Runners

Runners: Friday, November 14
First Season Sire Results
First Season Sire Runners
Season Sires
Runners

Second Season Sire Runners & Results

Second Season Sires’ Results

Results: Thursday, November 13

Second Season Sires’ Runners

Runners: Friday, November 14
Second Season Sire Results
Second Season Sire Runners
Season Runners
Sire Runners
Sire Results

Australian General Sires' Premiership

Australian General Sires' Premiership

Horses
Premiership
Horse
Australia Horses
Australia Horse

Australian Sires' Premiership

Australian Broodmare Sires' Premiership

Horses
NZ Horses
New Zealand Horses
Premiership
New Zealand Broodmare

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1 min read

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