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Tag: Australian Horse Racing Odds

  • 2024 Coolmore classic





    Race overview

    The 2024 Coolmore Classic is set to be run this coming Saturday, March 16th, at Rosehill Racecourse in Sydney, Australia. Here’s a quick rundown of the details:

    • Date: Saturday, March 16, 2024
    • Location: Rosehill Racecourse, Sydney
    • Distance: 1500 meters
    • Conditions: Handicap (fillies & mares aged three and above)
    • Status: Group 1 race
    • Prize Money: $1,000,000

    The Coolmore Classic is one of the richest races for fillies and mares during the Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival and is the marquee event of Coolmore Classic Day.

    See our tips below!


    Runner by runner preview

    1. Zougotcha (2) – Winner of the Flight Stakes, with this being her second run back. In her first-up race after a five-month break, she maintained a position near the lead and showed resilience, triumphing by a 0.9 length margin at this very track in the G2 Millie Fox on February 24 over 1300m in soft conditions, defeating Lady Laguna while carrying 58kg, priced at $4. In her previous second-up outing, she wore blinkers for the first time, finishing 4th out of 8 at this track in the G2 Sheraco on September 9 over 1200m, trailing Sunshine In Paris by 2 lengths while carrying 58kg at $7.50. She’s strategically drawn to track the pace and stands a good chance of victory once more.

    2. Revolutionary Miss (13) – A seasoned mare with several Group 2 victories under her belt. Her most recent performance saw her maintain a competitive pace and hold her ground, ultimately securing victory by 1.75 lengths at Caulfield in the G3 Mannerism on February 24 over 1400m, defeating Running By while carrying 59kg at $5.50. Prior to that, she clinched another win by a narrow margin at Flemington in the G3 Tressady on February 17 over 1400m, overcoming Forbidden City while carrying 58.5kg at $5. Her current form suggests she’s in prime condition to notch up another win.

    3. Semana (11) – A Group 3 winner on the hunt for a consecutive win. In her latest outing, she secured victory by a narrow margin at Randwick in the G3 Triscay on February 17 over 1200m on a soft track, besting Olentia while carrying 57.5kg at $4. Her previous race saw her rally from midfield and triumph by 2 lengths at Gold Coast in the LR Mm Cup on January 13 over 1400m, defeating Meridius while carrying 54kg at $14. She enters this race as a strong contender for victory.

    4. Vienna Princess (8) – Currently in her second race since resuming. In her first outing after a four-month hiatus, she secured a respectable 4th position out of 10 runners at this track in the G2 Millie Fox on February 24 over 1300m, held on a slow track. She trailed Zougotcha by 4 lengths while carrying 54kg at $7. Previously, in her second-up performance, she displayed her winning potential by triumphing by 0.9 lengths at Randwick in the Silver Eagle on October 14 over 1300m, defeating Strait Acer while carrying 54kg at $15. She’s an undervalued contender boasting a commendable track record.

    5. Hinged (15) – A distinguished Group 1 victor, now embarking on her second race since returning to competition. In her first appearance after a three-month break, she positioned herself near the lead and clinched a runner-up finish at Randwick in the G2 Guy Walter on March 2 over 1400m, contested on a slow track. She trailed Hell Hath No Fury by a nose while carrying 58kg at $2.80. In her prior second-up event, she concluded at the rear end of the field, finishing last of 11 runners at Randwick in the 7 Stakes on September 16 over 1600m, where she was distanced by 30 lengths behind Think It Over while carrying 57kg at $13. While she has improved fitness-wise, other contenders may hold more appeal.

    6. Tropical Squall (17), now competing in her second race since resuming. In her comeback race after a four-month hiatus, she secured victory by a narrow margin at Randwick in the G1 Surround on March 2 over 1400m, contested on a track affected by rain. She outpaced Stefi Magnetica by a nose while carrying 56kg at $8.50. In her previous second-up race, she finished 3rd out of 16 runners at Randwick in the G2 Tea Rose on September 16 over 1400m, trailing Tiz Invincible by 2 lengths while carrying 56kg at $5.50. With enhanced fitness levels, she warrants consideration for inclusion in selections.

    7. Deny Knowledge (9) – Achiever of a Group 2 title. Making a return from a break, her last campaign concluded with a second-to-last finish at Caulfield in the G2 Sand Clssc on December 2 over 2400m, on a soft track. She trailed by a significant margin, finishing 10 lengths behind Military Mission while carrying 57kg at $4.50. In her prior preparation, she commenced her campaign with a victory by 2 lengths at Moonee Valley in the 4yo+ Bm100 on August 26 over 1519m, outclassing French Emperor while carrying 52.5kg at $4. She may prove challenging to back.

    8. Foxy Frida (12) – Holder of a Group 3 title. This marks her second appearance since resuming. In her comeback race after a three-month break, she demonstrated a strong finish from the rear of the pack, securing 4th place out of 10 runners at Flemington in the G3 Tressady on February 17 over 1400m. She trailed Revolutionary Miss by 1.4 lengths while carrying 58kg at $7.50. In her previous second-up performance, she surged from midfield, finishing 3rd out of 10 at Caulfield in the G3 L/Day Vase on October 14 over 1600m, 2 lengths behind Wishlor Lass while carrying 58kg at $8.50. She shouldn’t be underestimated.

    9. Madame Pommery (16) – Victor of the Thousand Guineas. Currently in her second outing since resuming. In her first race back after a four-month hiatus, she maintained a position near the front throughout the event, finishing 3rd out of 10 at this track in the G2 Millie Fox on February 24 over 1300m, contested on a slow track. She trailed Zougotcha by 3 lengths while carrying 58kg at $12. In her prior second-up race, she finished 8th out of 12 at this track in the G2 Theo Marks on September 9 over 1300m, 3 lengths behind Golden Mile while carrying 55.5kg at $7. She presents a solid prospect for a top-three finish.

    10. Renaissance Woman (5) – A seasoned victor in multiple Group 3 races. Currently in her second race since resuming competition. In her first appearance after a four-month break, she finished 8th out of 10 runners at this track in the G2 Millie Fox on February 24 over 1300m, contested on a slow track. She trailed Zougotcha by 6 lengths while carrying 56kg at $26. However, in her previous second-up performance, she charged from midfield to secure victory by 0.8 lengths at Randwick in the G3 Angst on October 14 over 1600m, defeating Ausbred Flirt while carrying 56kg at $6. She’s now more prepared and warrants consideration for inclusion.

    11. Yonce (1) – Holder of a Group 3 title. Returning after a 35-day break. In her recent outing, she clinched victory by 0.8 lengths at Caulfield in the G3 Clyon Cup on February 10 over 1600m, defeating Foxy Cleopatra while carrying 55.5kg at $3.30. Prior to that, she finished 5th out of 8 runners at Caulfield in the LR Barton Stks on January 26 over 1400m, trailing Ayrton by 1.3 lengths while carrying 54kg at $5.50. With the advantage of an inside alley, she stands a chance of performing well in this race.

    12. Barbie’s Fox (10) – A contender who has secured a place in Group 2 races. Today marks her third race since resuming competition, and she has previously won third-up. In her first race back after a spell, she finished last out of 13 runners at Caulfield in the G2 Rubiton on February 10 over 1100m, trailing Kallos by 6 lengths while carrying 56kg at $81. In her second outing from the spell, she moved up from last on the turn to finish 5th out of 8 at Randwick in the G2 Guy Walter on March 2 over 1400m, contested on a slow track. She trailed Hell Hath No Fury by 3 lengths while carrying 55kg at $16. It’s unlikely she will pose a significant challenge to the field in this race.

    13. Hell Hath No Fury (3) – A mare of utility with a Group 2 triumph to her name. In her most recent race, she surged from a midfield position to secure victory by a narrow margin at Randwick in the G2 Guy Walter on March 2 over 1400m, contested on a rain-affected track. She outpaced Hinged while carrying 54kg at $9.50. Prior to that, in her previous start, she finished 3rd out of 7 runners at Randwick in the 3&4yo Bm78 on February 10 over 1600m, contending on a slow track. She trailed Ceerseven by 1.1 lengths while carrying 56kg at $4. With a favorable draw, she’s worth considering for inclusion.


    14. More Secrets (6) – A contender with a notable achievement of placing in a Group 1 race. Currently in her second race since returning to competition. In her first race after a four-month break, she finished 3rd out of 8 runners at Randwick in the G2 Guy Walter on March 2 over 1400m, contested on a slow track. She trailed Hell Hath No Fury by 1.75 lengths while carrying 54kg at $7. In her previous second-up outing, she surged from a midfield position to finish 3rd out of 15 at Randwick in the G3 Angst on October 14 over 1600m, trailing Renaissance Woman by 1.2 lengths while carrying 54kg at $6.50. Other contenders may hold greater appeal in this instance.

    15. Ausbred Flirt (18) – A mare who has secured a place in Group 3 competition. Currently in her second race since resuming. In her first race after a four-month break, she eased back early on to finish 6th out of 8 runners at Randwick in the G2 Guy Walter on March 2 over 1400m, contested on a slow track. She trailed Hell Hath No Fury by 3.5 lengths while carrying 54kg at $3.30. In her previous second-up outing, she finished 2nd out of 15 at Randwick in the G3 Angst on October 14 over 1600m, trailing Renaissance Woman by 0.8 lengths while carrying 54kg at $4.50. It will be a challenging task for her second-up from a wide draw.

    16. Jennilala (4) – A contender who has achieved a placing in a Group 1 event. Currently in her second race since resuming competition. In her first outing after a four-month break, she maintained a position near the front of the pack and displayed tenacity, clinching victory by 1.3 lengths at Flemington in the Bm84 on February 17 over 1400m. She defeated Lounge Bar Rubi while carrying 59kg at $12. Previously, in her second-up performance, she finished 13th out of 16 runners at Flemington in the G1 Empire Rose on November 4 over 1600m, trailing Pride Of Jenni by 6 lengths while carrying 57kg at $81. With solid potential for improvement, she enters this race with promising prospects, carrying 51kg.

    17. Kimochi (14) – Winner of a Group 2 race. Today marks her third race since resuming competition, and she has previously achieved success on her third-up outing. In her first race back, she moved up from a midfield position to secure victory by a narrow margin at Randwick in the G2 Lghtfinger on February 17 over 1200m, contested on a soft track. She defeated Learning To Fly while carrying 56kg at $6.50. In her most recent race, she finished 7th out of 12 runners at Randwick in the G1 Surround on March 2 over 1400m, contested on a slow track. She trailed Tropical Squall by 3.5 lengths while carrying 56kg at $6. She emerges as a genuine contender under these conditions.

    18. Barby’s Doll (7) – In her previous race, she made progress from a midfield position to finish 3rd out of 12 runners at Pakenham in the Cl3-Sw on February 29 over 1400m, trailing Mislead by 1.0 length while carrying 55kg at $3.80. Prior to that, she finished 3rd out of 7 runners at Caulfield in the 3yo F Bm70 on February 3 over 1200m, trailing Diamond Decorator by 4 lengths while carrying 57kg at $3.80. This race appears to pose a significant challenge for her.


    Tips

    JENNILALA (16), a recent winner at Flemington, has a good chance to repeat here based on her past performance. ZOUGOTCHA (1), the winner of the Flight Stakes, comes into this race after a narrow victory at this track and with a weight reduction. KIMOCHI (17), who showed determination in a close win at Randwick, is another contender. REVOLUTIONARY MISS (2), a multiple Group 2 winner, is coming off a win at Caulfield and shouldn’t be overlooked. SEMANA (3), in excellent form with two wins and a placing in her recent outings, including a win at Randwick on soft ground, is another horse to watch.

    Here are the top picks in order: (16), (1), (17), (2), (3).




  • All-Star Mile Promises a Tight Race at Caulfield

    Twelve horses are poised to charge out for the sixth edition of the lucrative $4 million All-Star Mile, returning to Caulfield for the second time this Saturday.

    A High-Quality Field Despite Smaller Size:

    While the field size may be smaller than in previous years, Racing Victoria emphasizes the exceptional quality of the participants. Each runner boasts a rating above 100, the highest average in the race’s history. Six Group 1 winners, including the race favorite Mr Brightside with barrier 11, will be vying for victory, although it’s the second-lowest number to compete. As Racing Victoria points out, prominent contenders like Alligator Blood, Attrition, Duais, and Aegon were unfortunately sidelined by injuries or setbacks.

    Intrigue Abounds for Race Fans:

    Matt Welsh, Racing Victoria’s Executive General Manager – Racing, anticipates a race brimming with possibilities:

    • Can Mr Brightside defend his title against the highly-rated Pride Of Jenni (barrier 6)?
    • Will Cascadian (barrier 7), last year’s runner-up, finally claim the top prize?
    • Can the New Zealand challengers, Puntura (barrier 4) and Desert Lightning (barrier 8), cause an upset?
    • Or will there be a surprise victory from another contender?

    Building Excitement for the Race:

    “The All-Star Mile has already sparked plenty of discussion,” Welsh said, “and now it’s time to debate who will win the race.”

    “We think the All-Star Mile will be an enthralling spectacle with the dynamic of the field assembled. The best races are those when we have a genuine tempo and that is assured at Caulfield on Saturday,” he added.

    Starting Positions Revealed:

    Pinstriped, entering the All-Star Mile for the first time, drew the coveted barrier one. Perth’s Dom To Shoot will start from the widest gate (12). Last year’s runner-up, Cascadian, has barrier seven, while New Zealand’s Puntara and Desert Lightning secured barriers four and eight, respectively.

    With a captivating mix of established champions, rising stars, and the potential for an underdog story, the All-Star Mile promises to be an edge-of-your-seat experience. Don’t miss the action this Saturday at Caulfield!

  • 2024 G1 Flemington Newmarket Handicap preview and tips

    1. Imperatriz (3):

    Imperatriz, the Black Caviar Lightning Stakes winner, is set to make her second-up appearance after a three-month break. In her first-up race, she was the favorite and displayed remarkable prowess by tracking the speed and maintaining a steady pace, ultimately clinching victory by a head at this very track in the G1 Lightning over 1000m. Her previous second-up performance showcased her resilience as she rallied from a disadvantaged position to secure victory at Moonee Valley in the G1 Moir Stks over 1000m. As a star mare, Imperatriz faces a new challenge in this race, and her past achievements speak volumes of her capabilities.

    2. Bella Nipotina (4) :

    Having claimed victory in the Manikato Stakes, Bella Nipotina is on her second run back after a three-month hiatus. In her recent first-up race, she finished 4th at this track in the G1 Lightning over 1000m, trailing Imperatriz by 0.9 lengths. Bella Nipotina’s previous second-up performance saw her securing the 3rd position at Randwick in the G2 Premiere over 1200m. With her consistent performances, she is anticipated to be a strong contender in the upcoming race.

    3. Buenos Noches (8):

    Buenos Noches, a multiple Group 1 placegetter, is making her second run back after a three-month break. In her first-up race, she showcased an impressive display by surging from last on the turn to secure the 4th position at Randwick in the G2 Expressway over 1200m. Her previous second-up performance saw her finishing 3rd at Randwick in the G2 The Shorts over 1100m. Buenos Noches’ remarkable comeback in her first-up race indicates her potential to perform well in the upcoming event.

    5. Ruthless Dame (2):

    Ruthless Dame, the winner of the Robert Sangster Stakes, is returning from a spell. In her last preparation, she finished seventh at Rosehill Golden Eagle over 1500m. Her previous first-up race saw her finishing seventh at Randwick in the G2 The Shorts over 1100m. Ruthless Dame’s past achievements position her as a potential contender for a place in the upcoming race.

    6. Magic Time (10):

    Magic Time, the winner of the Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes, is back from a spell. In her last campaign, she claimed victory at Caulfield in the G1 Rup Clarke over 1400m. Upon resuming, she finished fifth at Caulfield in the G3 The Heath 1100 over 1100m. With her talent and past successes, Magic Time appears to be well-placed for the upcoming race.

    7. The Astrologist (12):

    The Astrologist, a multiple Group 1 placegetter, faced tough competition in her recent races, finishing second last in the G1 Lightning over 1000m and fifth in the G3 Standish over 1200m. Considering her recent performances, it might be prudent to explore other options in this race.

    8. Benedetta (9):

    Benedetta, a Group 3 winner, is on her second run back after a four-month break. In her recent first-up race, she made some headway from midfield to secure the fourth position at Caulfield in the G1 Oakleigh Plt over 1100m. Her previous second-up performance saw her clinching victory at Caulfield in the G3 Cockram over 1200m. With her consistent performances, Benedetta could be a contender for a place in the upcoming race.

    9. It’sourtime (1):

    It’sourtime, a Group 3 winner, is making her first-up appearance. In her last campaign, she finished third at this track in the LR Mss Security over 1200m. Upon resuming, she secured the second position at this track in Bm90 over 1200m. However, uncertainties loom over her chances in this competitive field.

    10. Master Fay (8):

    Master Fay, a Group 3 winner, is set to make his third-up appearance after a 42-day break. In his recent races, he claimed victory at Tauranga Rating 75 over 1200m and Ellerslie G3 Concorde over 1200m. Despite his winning form, the tough competition in this race presents a significant challenge for Master Fay.

    12. Sghirripa (6):

    Sghirripa, a Group 3 winner, faced tough competition in his recent races, finishing seventh in the G1 Oakleigh Plt over 1100m and claiming victory at this track in the G3 Standish over 1200m. With a better draw in this race, Sghirripa emerges as a strong each-way hope.

    13. Skew Wiff (5):

    Skew Wiff, the winner of the Tarzino Trophy, is making her second-up appearance. In her recent races, she finished thirteenth in the G1 Oakleigh Plt over 1100m and claimed victory at Hastings G1 Tarzino Trpy over 1400m. However, her chances in this race appear slim.

    14. Cylinder (11):

    Cylinder, a multiple Group 2 winner, is on her second-up appearance after a four-month break. In her recent race, she finished sixth in the G1 Lightning over 1000m and claimed victory at Rosehill G2 Run To Rose over 1200m. While she has the potential to improve, the competitive field poses a challenge for Cylinder.

    Speed map

    Finding early speed or leaders in the upcoming race seems challenging. Imperatriz notably led in the Manikato and the Lightning, but with 58kg, the question arises whether they are willing to take that potential risk. Master Fay showcased speed in a recent Flemington jumpout. Apart from these contenders, identifying a clear frontrunner is difficult. Perhaps The Astrologist could emerge as a possibility?

    Tips

    1 Imperatriz

    A victory here would unquestionably solidify her status as a champion. Her comeback in the Lightning was nothing short of spectacular as she led from start to finish. Despite facing a formidable opponent in Private Eye, she showcased remarkable bravery, finding another gear and finishing strongest to secure the win. If she can carry top weight and triumph in this race, she will undoubtedly reinforce her champion status. However, from a betting perspective, I am hesitant to take this proposition.

    3 Buenos Noches

    Matty Smith faces a three-week gap between runs since his comeback in the Expressway at Randwick. In that race, I felt he was ridden too conservatively, setting him an almost insurmountable challenge. Despite finishing strongly, he never posed a serious threat for victory. Notably, he has performed well down the straight before and has been specifically prepared for this race. He could prove to be a formidable contender.

    Tips (1) – (3)

  • 2024 G1 Randwick Guineas preview and tips


    2024 Randwick Guineas Runner by Runner Review:

    1. Militarize (4): This Golden Rose Stakes winner has shown impressive form, particularly in his last run where he finished second in the G2 Apollo. With more fitness under his belt, he’s expected to perform well over this distance.

    2. Tom Kitten (8): Despite finishing 5th in the G2 Hobartvlle last time out, Tom Kitten has the potential to make a strong finish, especially given his history of performing well third-up. Expect him to be charging home late.

    3. Celestial Legend (11): With a win in the G2 Hobartvlle last start, Celestial Legend is showing promise. With untapped potential, he’s one to watch for a late swooping move.

    4. Encap (10): Encap has been consistent, finishing 3rd in the G2 Hobartvlle last start. With a genuine chance off the back of that performance, he shouldn’t be overlooked.

    5. Ganbare (5): While Ganbare faded to 7th in the G2 Hobartvlle, his previous form suggests he’s a solid top-three hope. Keep an eye on him, especially considering his past achievements.

    6. Les Vampires (2): Les Vampires has shown promise, winning at Canterbury and finishing 3rd in the G2 Hobartvlle. With a nice draw, he’s worth considering for a strong showing.

    7. Fukubana (3): Fukubana hasn’t shown the same level of form as some of the other contenders, finishing 4th in the G2 Hobartvlle last start. Place prospects may be slim for him in this race.

    8. Ducasse (9): Despite a strong win at Warwick Farm, Ducasse finished 8th in the G2 Hobartvlle. With a wide draw, this race might be too testing for him.

    9. Ceowulf (1): Ceowulf hasn’t shown exceptional form recently, but he shouldn’t be underestimated, especially considering his previous performances.

    10. Cafe Millennium (7): While Cafe Millennium has shown some promise in recent trials and races, the competition in this field might be too tough for him to contend with.

    11. Cosmic Lad (6): Like Cafe Millennium, Cosmic Lad has attracted attention in trials but hasn’t shown the same level of form in races. He might struggle against this field.


    Speed map

    Considering the speed map, the GaiBott pair of Ganbare and Les Vampires, along with Cosmic Lad, are expected to set the pace. It will be interesting to see how the race unfolds, with contenders like Militarize and Celestial Legend likely to make late charges.


    Tips

    MILITARIZE (1), the victor of the Golden Rose Stakes, showcased a strong performance in his recent outing, finishing second at this very track over 1400m in a Group 2 race held on soft terrain. Demonstrating notable capability, he stands a solid chance of being in contention. CELESTIAL LEGEND (3), a Group 2 titleholder, delivered a commanding victory last time out at Rosehill, triumphing by a substantial 2-length margin. His impressive figures indicate his suitability for this challenge. TOM KITTEN (2), winner of the Spring Champion Stakes, settled in the middle of the pack in his previous race at Rosehill, which was contested on soft ground where he was favored. With today’s extended journey, he remains a potential contender. LES VAMPIRES (6), a Group 2 placegetter, secured a podium finish in his recent outing at Rosehill and is expected to be sharper for his prior endeavors, offering an enticing each-way opportunity. ENCAP (4), boasting Group 1 credentials, is a progressive contender likely to feature prominently once more in the closing stages.

    Tips: (1)-(3)-(2)-(6)-(4)



    Market Odds

  • Fully Lit to fire in Black Opal

    Inglis Millennium winner Fully Lit headlines Sunday’s Black Opal at Canberra.


    Gai Waterhouse     and Adrain Bott will be well represented in the nations capital’s biggest day of racing, headlined by unbeaten two-year-old colt Fully Lit in the Group 3 Black Opal Stakes (1200m).

    The stable are enjoying an unprecedented two-year-old season with 19 total wins, including Fully Lit, with the Hellbent colt set to star a short-priced favourite for Sunday’s Black Opal, which the stable hope see him present as yet another Golden Slipper chance.

    “He’s come through his last win in the Millennium beautifully and he’s trialled nicely since,” Bott said.

    “He’s in great order, and obviously has plenty of upside. He’s improving every start.”

    Gai Waterhouse holds the record with seven Golden Slipper winners, one of those in partnership with Bott, who says Sunday’s race will be another piece in the puzzle as to Fully Lit’s standing in the Sipper pecking order.

    “I’d like to see him perform well in the Black Opal to see where he is at. It’s always a competitive contest so this will give us a great guide.”

    Fully Lit is the $1.50 favourite for the Black Opal after drawing barrier three with Regan Bayliss to maintain his association with the colt. Peter and Paul Snowden  have the only other two horses in single figures with Holmes A Court at $6 and King Of Roseau at $9.
    Meanwhile, in a far more open affair, Waterhouse & Bott will saddle up recent Magic Millions winner So United in the Listed Canberra Cup (2000m), who has drawn barrier seven in a field of 11 with Tim Clark onboard.

    “We thought So United was great last start…before that he was really impressive when he won at the Gold Coast. He’s progressive and continues to improve,” Bott said.

    So United is a $5 second elect behind the Kris Lees trained Almania at $4.20, who will jump from barrier 10.

  • Waller weighting with Espiona

    Newmarket weights to determine whether Espiona’s next assignment.

    Chris Waller will study the weights for this Saturday’s Newmarket Handicap before deciding whether Espiona runs in the $1.5 million event at Flemington or returns to Sydney.

    The daughter of Extreme Choice caught the eye late when steaming home into third placing in the 1000-metre Black Caviar Lightning, won by Imperatriz.

    The star Kiwi mare was late last week confirmed as a Newmarket starter, where she is expected to be 58kg topweight, and Waller said how Espiona measures up against her and some of the other better-performed nominations will determine whether she takes her place in the 1200m race.

    “I just want to see not what weight she gets, but how she fares in the weights against the other horses,” Waller said.

    Private Eye, Bella Nipotina, Magic Time and Skew Wiff are the other Group 1 winners entered for the Newmarket, along with Buenos Noches, Benedetta and the lone three-year-old nomination Cylinder.

    If Waller opts against running in the Newmarket, she will most likely appear in the Group 1 Canterbury Stakes at Randwick.

    The five-year-old was one of 13 nominations for that $750,000 event, which will herald the return of The Everest winner Think About It, and Waller would not have too much issue seeing her jump from the 1000m of the Lightning to 1300m second-up.

    “I don’t see 1300 metres being much of a problem, I think it is a good distance for her,” he said.

    “Her first-up run was terrific. She is effective now both ways as well as up the straight.”

    Espiona is one of two Canterbury Stakes nominations for Waller, who also has Golden Slipper winner Shinzo entered.

    The valuable son of Snitzel has not started since his third placing in the Coolmore Stud Stakes third placing and Waller tossing up whether he is ready for the 1300m first-up.

    “I’ve still got to make a decision if Shinzo is quite ready for it,” he said.

    Shinzo had had two trials this preparation, a third over 900m at Randwick on February 8 before a sixth placing in an 850m trial at Randwick a fortnight later.

  • Storm Boy dazzles again to romp home with Skyline!

    James McDonald has bestowed high praise on unbeaten colt Storm Boy saying, “he’s as good as you get”.

    Gai Waterhouse and Adrain Bott don’t just have their sights set on the Golden Slipper with Storm Boy, they are also eyeing off a clean sweep of the juvenile triple crown.

    As the raging Slipper favourite made light work of his Skyline Stakes (1200m) rivals at Randwick on Saturday, Bott was already thinking of the bigger autumn picture and the heights the $60 million colt might reach.

    He revealed that he and Waterhouse were keen to target the youngster, not just at the Golden Slipper (1200m), but at the ATC Sires’ Produce (1400m) and Champagne Stakes (1600m) as well.

    “We’ve had to prepare for the Golden Slipper, but we’ve got big targets for the triple crown as well,” Bott said.

    “I’d like to think he is only going to be better suited getting over the 1400, 1600 metres in time.

    “It’s very exciting for everyone involved.”

    Having his first start since demolishing his Magic Millions rivals, Storm Boy wasn’t the best to begin but quickly mustered speed to take up the running under new jockey James Mcdonald.

    As the pressure came on at the top of the straight, the $1.18 favourite found another gear, extending his advantage and cruising to the line 1-1/2 lengths clear of stablemate Prost ($12) with Duvana  ($18) another 1-1/4 lengths away third.

    Bott said it was a relief to see Storm Boy return so well from his Magic Millions foray and tick the final box in what will be his last start before the Golden Slipper in three weeks.

    “It’s always a little bit nerve wracking seeing these profile horses come back off that turnaround,” Bott said.

    “He’s a lovely style of horse, he’s got plenty of gears.

    “It’s his first run (back) and at 1200 metres off a while between races and a freshen up – he’s only had the one trial and he’s a lovely, big colt – so I think condition-wise, that will tighten him up nicely.”

    McDonald was having his first race day feel of Storm Boy and came away brimming with praise for the Coolmore colt.

    He believes there is still more under the bonnet and expects the youngster to thrive in a high-pressure race like the Slipper.

    “He’s as good as you get,” McDonald said.

    “He’s strong, he knows he’s really good and the more you ask him the more he keeps giving.

    “Until he gets into a high-pressure race, I think that is when you’ll see a fair dinkum horse.”

    Connections are yet to decide if McDonald will keep the Slipper ride, or if it will go to English jockey Ryan Moore, who jetted in to claim last year’s two-year-old centrepiece for Coolmore on Shinzo.

    However, McDonald made it clear he is keen to stick with the Skyline Stakes winner.

    “Ryan (Moore) is obviously their number one and we’ll see what happens, but if I get the opportunity, I’d love to ride him,” McDonald said.

    The Michael Freedman-trained Manaal took out the Group 2 Sweet Embrace Stakes (1200m) for the fillies to remain the only non-Tulloch Lodge two-year-old to claim a black-type race in Sydney this season.

    Manaal also denied Waterhouse and Bott when capturing the Gimcrack Stakes in September and while Freedman said she would most likely press on to the Slipper, he admitted the males looked hard to beat this year.

    “She is one of the better fillies around, whether they can stack up against the colts remains to be seen,” Freedman said.

    “We thought we could come here and get the job done, we’ll have a think about the Slipper.”

    The Golden Slipper picture took further shape last week when Storm Boy had his first start since the Magic Millions carnival and while he did not elevate his peak rating, he tightened his grip on Slipper favouritism.

    While he will still be favourite after Saturday night, the Slipper market is set to be reshaped and a main danger defined this weekend with the Todman Stakes and Reisling Stakes to be run at Randwick.

  • SA horses shine at Flemington on Cup week

    Promising filly Karavas completed a successful week for South Australian horses at Flemington with her win in the Group 3 Ottawa Stakes on Thursday.

    It was the second win in three years in the feature for the Richard and Chantelle Jolly stable and capped a massive six days in the saddle for Jake Toeroek.

    The lethal combination claimed last weekend’s Listed John Letts Cup at Morphettville with Pudding, one of two winners for the leading rider on the day, Toeroek’s third win in succession in the race.

    They followed up with four winners at Morphettville on Melbourne Cup Day, the leading rider grabbing a fifth win with Sabermetric.

    That form flowed to Flemington where Karavas stamped herself as a filly with a bright future dominating down the straight to make it two wins from as many starts.

    “She’s a real athletic filly, well-muscled. She always looked like she’d go early,” Richard Jolly said.

    “She had the benefit of that run at Murray Bridge.

    “People disregard our form a bit, good on them, she started good odds,” he said.

    Jolly said unlike their previous Ottawa winner See You In Heaven, Karavas was a filly who would be best suited over the short course.

    “This girl is more precocious,” Jolly said.

    “I feel this filly is going to be a sheer sprinting type.

    “We can put her away now and aim at some nice races in the autumn,” he said.

    Karavas’ win followed on from a big Melbourne Cup Day where Travis Doudle claimed the Schweppervescence Plate over 1000m with Damien Oliver riding, while Dan Clarken and Oopy MacGillivray’s The Map scored an impressive win in the 2800m race with Jamie Kah in the saddle.

    “By far and away the biggest thrill of my training career,” MacGillivray said.

    “The Map is a very special to us,” she said.

    Jamie Kah said it was a thrill to reunite with a stable who had been so crucial in her career in the early days.

    “Riding a winner on Melbourne Cup Day is awesome, but (winning) for them it felt like winning a Melbourne Cup,” Kah said.

    “I was always excited to ride this horse.

    “The feel she gave was fantastic,” she said.

    The hot SA form didn’t stop there with the Michael Hickmott trained, Fancify, finishing 2nd in the Three-Years-Old and Four-Years-Old, Fillies and Mares Race on Oaks Day while Kristi Evans trained, Platinum Wolf, ran a great race to finish 3rd in the Greys race on Cup day. 

  • Mr Brightside ready for Champions tilt

    Mr Brightside will chase Group 1 honours in the Champions Mile at Flemington.

    The Lindsay Park team of Ben, Will and J D Hayes would like a little luck to go their way in what has been a frustrating week at Flemington. 

    After Mr Brightside was touched out in the Cox Plate at Moonee Valley, the Hayes boys have suffered narrow losses with Apulia and Crosshaven earlier in Melbourne Cup week. 

    “With a bit of luck, we could be having a great Cup Carnival,” Ben Hayes said. 

    The Lindsay Park stable is pinning their hopes in Mr Brightside to end Cup week with a Group 1 win in the Champions Mile (1600m) on Saturday. 

    Hayes said the stable made the decision to come back from the 2040m of the Cox Plate when beaten by Romantic Warrior to Saturday’s journey with a view of a potential trip to Hong Kong. 

    “He’s an elite miler, so if we do decide to go to Hong Kong, it gives us more options,” Hayes said. 

    “We can stay at the mile or go to 2000 metres in Hong Kong, but we’ve got to get through this run first and see how he recovers from it. 

    “We haven’t committed to anything yet. He’s in the sixth run for the prep and these good horses, you do need to look after them. 

    “It’s something we’ll discuss with the team after the run.” 

    Hayes said Mr Brightside had remained at Flemington since his Cox Plate defeat and had freshened up nicely for his tilt on Saturday. 

    Mr Brightside will also be racing in blinkers again as the gelding looks to improve on his fourth in the corresponding race in 2021, when run as a handicap, then third last year. 

    “He’s probably due and there will be no excuses,” Hayes said. 

    “He hasn’t missed a day’s work. We’ve kept him at Flemington since the Cox Plate and we’ve always said that he thrives racing two weeks, two weeks, and that is what is happening here. 

    “He’s done so well and is a happy, enjoyable horse. 

    “I never get sick about talking about Mr Brightside, but if I ever do, slap me.” 

  • Ozzmosis aiming to uphold family tradition

    Ozzmosis out to become the fourth generation Coolmore winner

    Ozzmosis has the job of continuing his family’s amazing connection with the Coolmore Stud Stakes when the $2 million Group 1 is run at Flemington this Saturday.

    The Bjorn Baker-trained colt is out to become a fourth generation winner of the 1200-metre event that has risen to become the most significant race for three-year-old colts on the Australian calendar.

    Ozzmosis is by Zoustar, who won the Coolmore Stud Stakes in 2013, five years after his sire Northern Meteor won the race.

    Back when the race was known as the Ascot Vale Stakes – before it moved to Derby Day, which coincided with its elevation to Group 1 status – Northern Meteor’s sire Encosta De Lago won it in 1996.

    Baker recognises the 19-horse field that contains the Golden Slipper trifecta of Shinzo, Cylinder and King’s Gambit, plus local stars including Stretan Angel, Steparty and I Am Unstoppable, is not going to be easy but is an obvious target for his classy colt.

    “He is a well-bred colt, he’s got a great attitude and I think he can run a big one,” Baker said.

    “It is obviously going to be a very hard race, but he is in good order.”

    Ozzmosis, a $250,000 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling, is out of the Darci Brahma mare No More Tears, who is a daughter of Ocean Of Tears.

    Ocean Of Tears (Minardi) is from the Centaine mare Procure, which makes her a half-sister to Hips Don’t Lie, the dam of Acrobat, Lake Geneva and Ennis Hill, who is the dam of one of last season’s top two-year-olds Learning To Fly.

    Ozzmosis did not debut until late May, when he won easily at Gosford, before a similarly impressive win at Randwick on June 10.

    He was then put away to be prepared for his three-year-old season and made it three from three in the Listed Heritage Stakes before a third placing in the Group 2 Roman Consul Stakes (1200m) won by Coolmore rival King’s Gambit.

    The Darby Racing-owned colt tuned up for the Coolmore with a slick Flemington jumpout win last Friday, leaving Baker and raceday jockey Rachel King happy.

    “Rachel was very happy with him, so that gives us a bit of confidence going into Saturday,” Baker said.

    “He seems to have settled in well down there and we’re very happy with him going into the race.”

    Zoustar is the only stallion represented in this year’s Coolmore Stud Stakes who is a past winner, but three others have supplied winners of the race.

    I Am Invincible, who has King’s Gambit, I Am Unstoppable and Tiz Invincible engaged, is the sire of Brazen Beau (2014), Home Affairs (2021) and In Secret (2022), Cylinder’s sire Exceed And Excel is a two-time winner of the race, while Steparty’s sire Artie Schiller produced Flying Artie to win in 2016.