She may have a boy’s name – and not a real boy at that – but in terms of being a wonderful broodmare, Pinocchio (Encosta De Lago) appears to have proven herself the genuine article once again. The grey mare might also have a quite particular taste in stallions, and had an ordinary track record... Read More

It so often happens in breeding that – for want of a less harsh term – one farm’s poison becomes another’s meat. Merchant Navy (Fastnet Rock) was sold by Coolmore to Kooringal Stud, Wagga Wagga, and within days had a Group 1 winner in Royal Merchant. Scissor Kick (Redoute’s Choice) was shown the gate at... Read More

Monday’s opening hearing session into the proposed sale and redevelopment of Rosehill racecourse was enthralling, but there wasn’t a smoking gun. There were suggestions that witnesses, including Group 1-winning trainer John O’Shea, were pressured not to appear before the NSW Upper House Select Committee, but proving those veiled threats is another thing altogether. And the... Read More

Laizabout (AUS) 2 g Zousain – Divine Nature by Casino Prince O: W T Wilkes, J Wilkes, M J Armstrong, J M Duncan, A Maguire, Mrs J L Mitchell, D M Mitchell, R L Piltz, Platinum D (Mgr: P J Strickleton), W M Shelton & Mrs S E Shelton B: Mr M Leonard, Mrs M... Read More

Nick Ryan appears to have been rewarded for his bold outlay in buying Red Aces (Dundeel) – an early fancy for the VRC Derby (Gr 1, 2500m) – and he may have rival trainer Anthony Freedman to thank. Ryan set a personal high in going to $380,000 to secure the colt at the Inglis Premier... Read More