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Friday, September 19, 2025

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Lead Story

Half Yours hunts full ticket to the Caulfield Cup

By Paul Symes

ANZ News

Half Yours (St Jean) is primed to go in search of instant access to the Caulfield Cup (Gr 1, 2400m) through the Naturalism Stakes (Gr 3, 2000m) this Saturday, with co-trainer Tony McEvoy believing the stable’s progressive stayer would represent a live chance in next month’s $5 million showpiece.

Having been assigned just 51 kilograms in the Caulfield Cup earlier this week by Racing Victoria’s head of handicapping, David Hegan, the lightly-raced five-year-old sits well down the order of entry and is in a race against time to make it onto the field for his grand final - but a sixth career win on Saturday would immediately solve that dilemma.

The other, more pressing concern facing McEvoy on Thursday morning was the fact that there were 16 horses still ahead of Half Yours in the queue to contest the Naturalism Stakes which, like the Underwood Stakes (Gr 1, 1800m) on the same card, offers the winner ballot exemption into the Caulfield Cup.

However, rather than sitting in his Ballarat office and continually refreshing the scratchings page on the Racing Australia website, McEvoy put in a quick call to his fellow trainer Chris Waller who confirmed that his well-fancied runner Birdman (Free Eagle) would instead remain in Sydney to contest the Kingston Town Stakes (Gr 3, 2000m).

That news came as a tremendous relief to Team McEvoy, comprising patriarch Tony and his son Calvin. In partnership with Belmont Bloodstock, they pounced on Half Yours for $305,000 when he featured among the Halo Racing dispersal on the Inglis November (Late) Online Sale last year, following the passing of prominent racehorse owner and meat processing baron Col McKenna.

What's On

It is very rare for horses to improve after exiting the stables of Ciaron Maher, who was the underbidder and could live to regret missing out, but Half Yours may well prove an exception to the general rule having excelled since joining the McEvoys.

It is six months to the day that Half Yours stepped out for the first time for his new connections, and in that time the flashy chestnut has registered three wins - in three different states - and a pair of placings from his six starts.

Leading the half-year highlights reel was his 4.5-length romp in the Caloundra Cup (Listed, 2400m) at the Sunshine Coast in July, when he became the first stakes winner for his unheralded sire St Jean (Teofilo), who stands for the modest fee of $3,300 (inc GST) at Brackley Park in Victoria’s Goulburn Valley.

Half Yours encountered favourable conditions that day, with McEvoy conceding that he needs ground at least in the soft range in order to thrive; but despite a prediction of only light showers in the build-up to Saturday’s $200,000 contest, early punters have still stepped in and crunched him into $2.60 favouritism from an opening quote of $4.

“It’s been lovely to see the horse’s progression since he joined us,” McEvoy Snr told ANZ News.

“He really impressed me in the Caloundra Cup, which was his first run over a mile-and-a-half, and at that stage we knew we might have a pretty handy stayer in the making. He got soft ground that day which we’re probably not going to get on Saturday, because there’s not much rain around and the Caulfield track drains particularly well.

“Having said all that, he ran really well on a firm deck at Sandown at his first start for us and then won on a good track at Seymour at his next start. So he is adaptable but there’s no denying he’s better with a bit of give in the ground. We’ll know more after Saturday’s race, but we won’t be using the ground as an excuse if he doesn’t win.

“I haven’t had a close look at the field yet because we’ve only just found out that we’re in the race, but there looks to be a lot of stayers resuming so we probably won’t want to get too far back because you then run the risk of meeting traffic. We’ve drawn low [in gate two] so provided he breaks cleanly I would expect us to be in the front half of the field, then as always in these big handicap races, you just need a little bit of luck from there.”

If luck be a lady then the female in question is Jamie Melham, who has been booked to ride Half Yours for the first time.

By her own meteoric standards Melham has had a relatively quiet start to the spring, but the 29-year-old looks to have a strong book of rides at Caulfield on Saturday with Stay Cosmic (Cosmic Force) well supported to win the Caulfield Guineas Prelude (Gr 3, 1400m) and Another Wil (Street Boss) considered one of the leading chances in the Underwood Stakes, one of two Group 1 races which headline the program.

McEvoy Snr, of course, played a key role in the formative stages of Melham’s riding career, as she established a formidable partnership with his stable in her native South Australia before continuing the association - albeit to a lesser extent - when she switched states to Victoria.

Their 97 wins in tandem include five black type triumphs, headlined by Melham’s supreme steer aboard Coco Sun (The Autumn Sun) in last year’s South Australian Derby (Gr 1, 2500m).

The Melham-McEvoy axis is therefore a fearsome combination and although the jockey formerly known as Jamie Kah is yet to sit on Half Yours, if the market is right there is a very good chance they will be celebrating a sixth stakes success come Saturday afternoon.

“There’s no doubt familiarity with a horse is a big plus in any race, let alone a Saturday feature, but I don’t think it matters too much that Jamie hasn’t been on the horse before,” McEvoy told ANZ News.

“Elite jockeys like Jamie can sit on any horse for the first time and go out and execute a plan to perfection. That’s why everyone is chasing these top riders, and we’re obviously delighted to have her on board on Saturday. Hopefully they get along famously, then it’ll be onwards and upwards to the Caulfield Cup.”

If, for whatever reason, Half Yours doesn’t show a liking for the Caulfield track on his first visit there, McEvoy would consider pivoting to a tilt at the Metropolitan (Gr 1, 2400m) - with Melham one of the very few leading jockeys willing and able to get down to the 50-kilogram minimum weight.

However, the strong preference at this stage is to qualify for the Caulfield Cup, a race McEvoy came agonisingly close to winning back in 2002 when his star galloper Fields Of Omagh (Rubiton) was denied by the narrowest of margins by the late, great Northerly (Serheed).

Half Yours is no Fields Of Omagh - which is no great slight as very few are - but he might in time achieve something the horse affectionately known as ‘FOO’ never managed and run in a Melbourne Cup (Gr 1, 3200m).

Should Half Yours firstly make the Caulfield Cup field and then acquit himself well on raceday, McEvoy hasn’t entirely ruled out an ambitious plan to press onto ‘the race that stops a nation’, with jockey Ashley Morgan telling connections shortly after he dismounted at the Sunshine Coast that two miles would be well within the gallant gelding’s remit.

“We had him genetically tested and the results came back that he was in the C:T Long category, which means his optimum distance range is between 1400 and 2400 metres,” said McEvoy.

“But the way he finished off in the Caloundra Cup over 2400 metres, Ashley was adamant that two miles wouldn’t be a problem for this horse. So that gave us the confidence to target the Caulfield Cup, and if he were to run well there then who knows?

“If it’s a wet Caulfield Cup this year, then I think he’d be well and truly in it. I truly believe he’d be a very good chance in any race in the country provided it’s run on soft ground. If we’re playing on a wet deck in the Caulfield Cup, it would probably take out at least a third of the field because some horses simply don’t handle it, particularly in staying races where it really saps their stamina.

“A lot of things would have to go in our favour between now and then, but it’s exciting to think that we have a horse capable of competing at the highest level. It’s been a while since I’ve won one of the majors [with Fields Of Omagh in the 2003 Cox Plate], but it hasn’t stopped us from trying.”

Morning Briefing

Australia

Waller duo out to stake Metropolitan claims in cup

Emerging stayer Travolta (Lope De Vega) will get another chance to press his Metropolitan Handicap (Gr 1, 2400m) claims when he lines up in Friday’s Newcastle Gold Cup (Gr 3, 2300m). The five-year-old started odds-on in the City Tattersalls Club Cup (Listed, 2400m) last start but was undone by a bold front-running ride from James McDonald aboard Changingoftheguard (Galileo). Chris Waller’s assistant trainer Charlie Duckworth believes that experience will benefit Travolta heading into Newcastle. “It just got away from him a little bit, which was unfortunate because it was a race he could have won,” Duckworth said. “But we won’t worry about spilt milk. The 2300 metres will be no issue and hopefully he can get himself up the order for a Metropolitan start.” Chris Waller has a superb record in the race, winning six of the past ten renewals, and will saddle four runners this year. Another of his main hopes is Soul Of Spain (Phoenix Of Spain), who earned his shot after two dominant wins in Queensland. “This is going to be much harder stepping into Group company, but he’s a beautiful style of horse,” Duckworth said. “He’s very clean-winded, covers the ground well, and we don’t know where his ceiling is yet.” As for choosing between the pair, Duckworth said: “Your guess is as good as mine. They’re both highly progressive and it’s going to be a case of who is better on the day.”

Port Lockroy set for Sir Rupert Clarke tilt

Connections of Port Lockroy (Better Than Ready) are hoping a return to racing left-handed can spark the entire back into form when he tackles Saturday’s Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes (Gr 1, 1400m) at Caulfield. The Annabel and Rob Archibald-trained five-year-old has raced in that direction only once before – his finest moment, when storming to victory in the Railway Stakes (Gr 1, 1600m) last November. He resumes the pattern this weekend, second-up from a spell after a 13th-placed run in the Tramway Stakes (Gr 2, 1400m) at Randwick on September 6. “He’s going really well,” Annabel Archibald told Racing.com. “I thought his first-up run was probably only a pass mark, but he just pulled up with a slight hamstring tightness. That’s all rectified now and he galloped super the reverse way [on Monday]. He just thrives going that way.” While Sydney options were available, the stable opted for a Melbourne mission, with Caulfield to be the starting point. “I think he’s probably better over a mile, but we’ve seen him run good races at less than that,” Archibald said. “He’s one of those horses I think is good anywhere from 1400 to 1800 metres. Obviously, it leads in to the Toorak [Handicap] as well. It wouldn’t be a one-hit mission.”

Distance test for Stokes pair

Trainer Phillip Stokes believes stable duo Stay Cosmic (Cosmic Force) and Ferivia (Astern) are ready to step up in trip when they line up over 1400 metres at Caulfield on Saturday. The Pakenham-based horseman will saddle Stay Cosmic in the Caulfield Guineas Prelude (Gr 3, 1400m) and Ferivia in the Jim Moloney Stakes (Listed, 1400m), both coming off encouraging efforts over shorter trips. Stay Cosmic resumed with a strong second to highly touted debutant Rosberg (Deep Field) in the McKenzie Stakes (Listed, 1200m) at The Valley, with Stokes confident the colt will relish further. “His run was really good, he was a bit slow out but closed off well late,” Stokes said. “He’s always profiled like a miler and I think he’s looking for the 1400 [metres] and then the mile. That will suit him.” The colt has drawn barrier seven with Jamie Melham booked and is a $4.20 second elect as he bids to secure a Caulfield Guineas (Gr 1, 1600m) berth. Stablemate Ferivia, a Quezette Stakes (Gr 3, 1100m) winner, ran sixth in the Atlantic Jewel (Listed, 1200m) last time out after missing the start and finding trouble in running. “She might’ve been in season that day,” Stokes said. “She closed well late with no room and I think she’s looking for the 1400 [metres]. Moonee Valley probably wasn’t her track, but she’s relaxing well and I think she’ll get it.” Ferivia has drawn barrier two with Lachlan Neindorf to ride the $9 chance. “This will be the fork in the road,” Stokes said. “But I’m hoping she can bounce back.”

Gilded Water out to improve Cup hopes

The royal-owned Gilded Water (Fastnet Rock) will make his second-up appearance in Saturday’s Benchmark 84 (2000m) at Caulfield, with connections hopeful he can work his way towards a start in the Melbourne Cup (Gr 1, 3200m) at Flemington on November 4. It is still a long road to Cup Day, and trainer Ciaron Maher concedes the lightly raced stayer must start winning to have any chance of forcing his way into the field. “He was a very good run first-up off a very light prep and I’m looking forward to seeing him on Saturday,” Maher said. “He’s going to have to sneak into the Cup through the back door, but he’s grown up and improving all the time. The Caulfield Cup will probably come too quick, but hopefully we can sneak him into the Melbourne Cup.” A dual winner last year at Kembla Grange and Randwick before a spell, Gilded Water returned with a third over 1800 metres at Caulfield on August 30. Saturday’s contest is seen as a stepping stone to possible qualifiers such as The Bart Cummings (Gr 3, 2500m), Geelong Cup (Gr 3, 2400m) or Moonee Valley Gold Cup (Gr 2, 2500m). A Geelong start would be a fitting twist, given his owner King Charles III attended Geelong Grammar in the 1960s. “He needs a couple of wins, but there’s a host of those races,” Maher said. “He’s a progressive stayer, but things have to go right.”

Nadal out to strike fresh at Caulfield

Exciting sprinter Nadal (Xtravagant) makes his long-awaited return at Caulfield on Saturday, and connections are confident the lightly raced gelding can make an immediate impact. The Ciaron Maher-trained five-year-old announced himself as a horse of serious potential last spring, storming home to win the inaugural Meteorite (1200m) at Cranbourne before injury halted his autumn. He resumes in the Barastoc Handicap (1100m), race four on the program. Assistant trainer Jack Turnbull said Nadal had thrived after being sidelined with knee issues, benefitting from a lengthy spell before building back through Ballarat and Fingal. “He has come back really well,” Turnbull told Racing.com. “At the moment you wouldn’t even know he’s had any history there. Without a doubt he is just a good horse.” Nadal has always shown an explosive turn of foot, and Turnbull says that makes him a winning chance first-up. “He’s got the ability to quicken up where other horses can’t, so long as the race is run truly enough,” he said. “He’ll be there for one crack and hopefully he can get over the top of them because he does fly fresh.” The gelding resumes off just one jump-out, with his performance on Saturday to determine his spring path. “There’s good improvement to come,” Turnbull said. “You’re naturally looking at a Schillaci, or possibly even a Gilgai. We’ll just see. If the rain does fall, then that’s a huge plus.”

Private Harry gives Morgan his chance to shine

Unbeaten sprinter Private Harry (Harry Angel) will put his record on the line in Saturday’s The Shorts (Gr 2, 1100m) at Randwick, with jockey Ash Morgan looking to continue his own rapid rise. The pair have formed a formidable partnership, combining to win The Galaxy (Gr 1, 1100m) and the $3 million Magic Millions Sunlight Plate (1100m), helping propel Welsh-born Morgan from the provincial circuit into Sydney’s top riding ranks. This time last year, Morgan was riding at Newcastle for Private Harry’s trainer Nathan Doyle, but 12 months on he finds himself aboard one of Australia’s most exciting sprinters and a leading contender for next month’s $20 million The Everest (Gr 1, 1200m). “When I first started riding I wasn’t accustomed to that sort of pressure but now I feel like I’m thriving off it,” Morgan said. “The Sunlight was the biggest race I’d ever ridden in prize-money-wise and to win that and The Galaxy gave me confidence. It’s really helped me improve as a rider.” Private Harry is chasing a sixth-consecutive victory and resumes against Everest-bound rivals Briasa (Smart Missile) and Joliestar (Zoustar). Morgan feels his mount is more forward than ever heading into a first-up run. “He was always a big brute of a horse but he’s come back stronger through his shoulder and neck,” he said. “He’s taken that natural improvement into his four-year-old season. He’s going to run a massive race.” Private Harry is a $2.20 favourite for The Shorts and sits on the second line of Everest betting behind Hong Kong star Ka Ying Rising (Shamexpress) at $6.

Blinkers go on Tupakara in Tea Rose

The Annabel and Rob Archibald stable will look to Tupakara (Trapeze Artist) to finally break through for a maiden win when she lines up in Saturday’s Tea Rose Stakes (Gr 2, 1400m) at Randwick. The three-year-old has been a model of consistency, placing in four of her seven starts - all at stakes level - including a Group 1 third behind Nepotism (Brutal) in the Champagne Stakes (Gr 1, 1600m) as a juvenile. She returned with a sharp second in the Furious Stakes (Gr 2, 1200m), beaten only by Michael Freedman’s Apocalyptic (Extreme Choice). On Saturday she will wear blinkers for the first time, a decision confirmed after champion jockey James McDonald galloped her in the gear earlier this week. “She’s a lovely, honest horse,” Annabel Archibald said. “When you’ve got J-Mac on it helps, and we’ve added the blinkers as well. She was a bit on and off the bridle the other day, but she worked really well in them on Tuesday.” Tupakara will be joined in the Tea Rose by stablemates Kujenga (King's Legacy) and Next Jen (Ole Kirk), who finished fourth and seventh respectively in the Furious. “Tupakara is probably the obvious horse after her run last start, but I do find it hard to split them,” Archibald said. “Next Jen just needs to break cleanly and she’ll put herself in the race, while Kujenga has improved since her return.” All three fillies are expected to appreciate the step up to 1400 metres as they continue on the Princess Series path towards the Flight Stakes (Gr 1, 1600m) at Randwick in a fortnight.

Tea Rose to provide learning curve for Apocalyptic

Trainer Michael Freedman has admitted that the performance of Apocalyptic in Saturday's Tea Rose Stakes will provide his team with something to learn about the emerging filly. The three-year-old daughter of Extreme Choice (Not A Single Doubt) ran just once as a juvenile when finishing second in a 1100-metre handicap at Randwick on debut, but reappeared with an excellent victory in the Furious Stakes back at the same track on September 6 - just her second-ever start. “She’s a filly we’ve had a high opinion of, coming out at that level at only her second lifetime start and first-up from a long break was a good effort,’’ Freedman told Racing NSW. “Obviously against good quality fillies it was a good effort. She got a nice run from a soft draw and it’s a slightly different set up at the 1400 metres drawn out-ish to what it looked like two weeks ago. She’s just been ticking over, she hasn’t had to do a great deal but she came through that run in good order. We’re flying a bit blind because she’s so unexposed only having the two runs. It’s really taking it one step at a time, which I know sounds boring, but that’s very much the case. With even luck we’ll get a good idea how she looks over the 1400 metres and what our next step might be onto the Flight. As I said on the day [she won] I’m looking forward to what she might be able to do this spring and even more so into the autumn next year.”

Waterhouse and Bott duo clash in Kingston Town

Tulloch Lodge will unleash a proven Group 1 performer and a rising prospect when Vauban (Galiway) and Elamaz (Gleneagles) line up in Saturday’s Kingston Town Stakes (Gr 3, 2000m) at Randwick. Both geldings are relatively new to the Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott yard, but each has quickly shown quality. Vauban claimed a Group 3 win in the autumn before placing in the Tancred Stakes (Gr 1, 2400m) and resumed this spring with a gritty third to Lindermann (Lonhro) in the Chelmsford Stakes (Gr 2, 1600m). “He was sharper than I expected over the mile and the 2000 metres is much better for him,” Bott said. “He looks to have trained on well and he goes there in good order.” Elamaz, meanwhile, impressed on stable debut in June, winning the W J McKell Cup (Listed, 2000m). The French import has not raced since but has tuned up with two trials. “His first and only run here was excellent,” Bott said. “He’s stepping up from winter stakes company to carnival level, but he seems to be improving nicely. We’ll learn more on Saturday about where his preparation is headed.” The stable’s go-to rider Tim Clark sticks with Vauban, while James McDonald takes the reins on Elamaz. Bott said Vauban’s form makes him the yard’s leading seed but is excited to see Elamaz tested. “Vauban is proven and has the class at this stage,” he said. “He’s got the run under his belt, but Elamaz is still a lovely horse going forward.”

Arapaho tuned up for Kingston Town

Warwick Farm-based trainer Bjorn Baker feels that his evergreen nine-year-old Arapaho (Lope De Vega) is in top form ahead of Saturday's Kingston Town Stakes at Randwick. April's Sydney Cup (Gr 1, 3200m) winner will be third-up into the Group 3 contest over 2000 metres and is preparing for a crack at the Metropolitan Handicap - where he is likely to carry top weight of 58 kilograms. “I’ve got two warriors in my stable, him and Overpass, and they’re both going as well as ever,’’ Baker told Racing NSW. “Arapaho has been a revelation, he’s been competing at that high level for a long time and he always does us proud. I think he’s going super, he was great first-up and second-up was good again and out to 2000 metres is ideal for him. He’s only got to run up to his form to be right in the finish, and he’s third-up so he’s ready to go. It’s a good track and he’s got a great gate [barrier four]. Definitely on paper it’s going to look good for him. He’s going to get a gun spot just behind the speed, I think he will be a big chance. Ideally we go to the Metrop afterwards and then we’ll have a think about it, I haven’t ruled out going to the St Leger on Everest Day as a lead up to the Melbourne Cup.”

Mallyon confident in Yellow Brick

Jockey Andrew Mallyon is confident that Yellow Brick (The Mission) can produce a big effort this weekend when he is presented with more favourable conditions in the Bill Ritchie Handicap (Gr 3, 1400m) at Randwick. The Tony and Maddysen Sears-trained six-year-old, who is being aimed at the Epsom Handicap (Gr 1, 1600m), ran second in the Stradbroke Handicap (Gr 1, 1400m) back in June and kicked off the new season with a fourth placing in the Show County Quality (Gr 3, 1200m). “I was pretty pleased with his first-up effort, there were a few things against him,’’ Mallyon told Racing NSW. “He struck a pretty heavy track and a 1200-metre race with little to no tempo in it, and the impost of 60 kilograms. All things considered to be finishing his race off the way he did it gave us confidence going forward. He’s obviously going to improve stepping up in trip and on a dry track which is more to his liking. It’s been a good form race but it was just more getting the horse down there and running well. I do a lot of his trackwork and his work has been fantastic, he hasn’t put a foot wrong since that run. He’s a big, gross, horse so we always do a bit with him to keep him ticking over. All his work has been pleasing, he came through the run bouncing and he hasn’t looked back so far.”

Whatalegacy makes it two from two

Whatalegacy (King’s Legacy), a half-brother to Group 1-winning sprinter Benedetta (Hellbent), took his career record to two wins from as many starts on Thursday when taking out a Benchmark 64 (1000m) at Kembla Grange. Trained by Bjorn Baker and ridden by Dylan Gibbons, Whatalegacy followed up his debut win at Wyong with a 2.8 lengths victory over Sociable (Yes Yes Yes) in Thursday's contest, taking his prize-money earnings to over $50,000. Whatalegacy was purchased for $160,000 by his trainer and Clarke Bloodstock at the 2024 Inglis Premier Yearling Sale out of Mill Park. He was bred by South Australian breeders Brenton and Liz Parker, who have retained small interest in the colt. As well as being a half-brother to Benedetta, Whatalegacy is also a half-brother to the Group 2-placed Whatafox (Foxwedge) being the fourth winner from five foals to race out of the from Group 2-placed Domesday (Red Ransom) mare Whatalovelyday.

New Zealand

Tajana ready to further press Classic claims

Trainer Shaune Ritchie is confident class filly Tajana (Darci Brahma) will shine again when she lines up in Saturday’s Sunline Vase (Gr 3, 1400m) at Ellerslie. Bred and raced by The Oaks Stud, Tajana resumed with a sharp win in the Northland Breeders’ Stakes (Gr 3, 1200m) at Ruakaka last month and has thrived since. “She was very good last time and has done fantastically well,” Ritchie, who trains in partnership with Colm Murray, said. “The four weeks between runs really suits her. She’s a natural mile-and-a-quarter horse, that’s what she’s showing us, so keeping her fresh at the shorter trips is the right way to go. I expect her to go really super on Saturday.” Already a Group 1-placed juvenile in the Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes (Gr 1, 1400m), Tajana has two wins from five starts and is being aimed squarely at the New Zealand 1,000 Guineas (Gr 1, 1600m) in November. “The plan is the Soliloquy Stakes before we head to Riccarton,” Ritchie said. “She’s a laid-back filly and lovely to train, she almost trains herself. The only real concern is whether 1400 metres is far enough on Saturday, but I don’t think we could have tackled it any other way.” While Wiremu Pinn partnered Tajana to her resuming success, George Rooke takes over at Ellerslie as part of a long-term booking. “He was promised the ride before he got hurt and he’ll ride her through the season,” Ritchie said. Tajana is currently a $5 second favourite for the 1,000 Guineas behind her Vase rival Lollapalooza (El Roca) at $3.20.

Liefting hopes Unrestrained can step up in Sunline Vase

Trainer Rudy Liefting knows all about unearthing talent for long-time clients Sir Trevor Clarke and Chris Jones. He bought subsequent Group 1 winner Grail Seeker (Iffraaj) for them in 2022 before advising she join a bigger stable, and now he is back in the spotlight with bargain buy Unrestrained (Time Test). Liefting picked up the filly as a $4,000 weanling at Karaka and she makes her first stakes appearance in Saturday’s Sunline Vase at Ellerslie after a promising debut second at Ruakaka. “She has always shown promise but has been really difficult to handle,” Liefting said. “She was scratched twice at the trials for not loading but we’ve got on top of that. I think she will take one or two lengths of improvement from her debut.” Unrestrained has drawn barrier five and will be ridden by Joe Doyle, who partnered her at the trials. “I was praying for a good draw and that might give her a chance,” Liefting said. “She’s got a bit of tactical speed so hopefully she gets into a nice spot.” While Liefting is excited by Unrestrained’s prospects, he remains realistic. “We’ll get a measure of her and see if she’s up to it. It’s a good opportunity to get black type if we can sneak into a place.”

Cvitanovich looking to Knock Off stakes victory

Knock Off (Fabulous) has proven to be a horse of a lifetime for Wanganui trainer Gerard Cvitanovich, who will be vying to record his first stakes victory on Saturday when his charge contests the Metric Mile (Gr 3, 1600m) at Trentham. The semi-retired dairy farmer has been training intermittently over the last 30 years, and has contested three previous stakes races, but Saturday presents as his best opportunity as he gets set to line-up the $6 equal favourite for the mile feature. The occasion will be a true family affair, with his son Nick having bred the son of Fabulous (High Chaparral), while his three other children, brother and wife also share in the ownership of the horse. “I have got four kids and they are all involved, as is my brother, and my wife, Rachel,” he said. “They all like to have a bet, go to the races and have a look around, it’s good.” The lightly tried gelding has won four and placed in three of his 11 starts to date and has been in a purple patch of form this preparation, winning three and placing in one of his four starts this time in. Cvitanovich has been over the moon with his gelding’s meteoric rise and he is looking forward to testing him at stakes level for the first time this weekend. “It is good to give him a go at it and we will just see what level he is at,” he said. “He is very well and he seems to be enjoying his work. It is a good time to have a go at something like that.”

Slipper Island shooting for five-straight in chute resumption

Slipper Island (No Nay Never) put together a picket fence form line down the Trentham chute last season and he’ll be aiming to pick up where he left off at the Upper Hutt venue on Saturday. In autumn, the No Nay Never (Scat Daddy) gelding went from winning at Rating 65 grade to defeating Group 1 winner Pier (Proisir) and subsequent Group 1 placegetter Tomodachi (Tarzino) three runs later in the City Of Napier Sprint (Listed, 1200m). That performance made four straight successes down the dogleg, and while his trainer Tony Pike hadn’t intended to head back there first-up, bad weather in the north shifted those plans. “He’s come back in great order again this preparation and his trials have been good, he looks pretty forward,” Pike said. “Ideally we wanted to go to Te Rapa last week, but with the wet track there, that forced our hand to decide to go back to Trentham, a track he obviously loves. It looks like they’re going to miss most of the rain and it’ll be about a (Soft) 6 or 7, which will be a big help. The better the track conditions, the better he’ll go, but with his form on this track, I think he’ll be hard to beat on Saturday.” Slipper Island shares favouritism for the CR Grace And Waterforce Handicap 1200 (1200m) with his stablemate Witz End (Savabeel), but the pair will likely head in different directions after resuming, with the Stewards Stakes (Listed, 1200m) during New Zealand Cup Week the goal for the former. “I think the Stewards will be ideal for him, he should still get in on a reasonably light weight and the straight racing really seems to suit him,” Pike said.

Asia

JPN: Shin Emperor ruled out of Arc bid

Japan's challenge for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (Gr 1, 2400m) has suffered a blow with the news that Shin Emperor (Siyouni) will not travel from Ireland to France following his disappointing effort in the Irish Champion Stakes (Gr 1, 1m 2f) last Saturday. Trainer Yoshito Yahagi said he was "speechless" after the four-year-old Siyouni (Pivotal) colt, who is a brother to 2020 Arc hero Sottsass, cut out tamely to finish sixth of eight behind Delacroix (Dubawi). Following tests at his temporary base on the Curragh, Shin Emperor was found to have suffered a breathing issue, as well as a "moderate" internal bleed. A statement released on the Yahagi Stable X feed read: "Shin Emperor underwent an endoscopic examination on Monday local time due to an abnormality observed in his racing performance. As a result, asthma [inflammatory lower airway syndrome] and moderate pulmonary haemorrhage [EIPH, exercise-induced pulmonary haemorrhage] were identified. While these conditions do not require immediate complete rest, it was determined that competing in the Arc de Triomphe when not in optimal condition would be difficult, and the decision was made to withdraw from the race. Moving forward, the plan is to return to Japan on September 28 and prepare for the Japan Cup."

International

UK: Hollie Doyle and Dylan Browne McMonagle set for HK stint

Hollie Doyle is eager to embrace the opportunity to step outside of her comfort zone and ride in Hong Kong for a short stint after a "tough, stop-start" year. "It's seemingly getting harder in British racing to make your mark if you're not in the top three or five," said Doyle on the day she was announced as one of four top-class riders destined for spells in Hong Kong this winter. Doyle is closing in on a century of winners in Britain for the year but has struggled without a Group 1 horse in a campaign that has also seen her lose her role as retained rider to Classic-winning owner and breeder Imad Al Sagar last month. The 28-year-old has been licensed by the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) to ride at Sha Tin and Happy Valley between November 5 and December 23, a period that incorporates the Longines Hong Kong International fixture. As well as Doyle, Dylan Browne McMonagle, who leads Colin Keane by nine winners in his bid to be crowned Irish champion jockey for the first time, will start next year in Hong Kong on a licence from January 1 to March 29. James McDonald has been granted a licence between November 12 and December 23, with Maxime Guyon set for a visit between November 30 and March 1.

US: Not This Time share to be offered at Keeneland Championship Sale

Taylor Made Sales Agency will offer a share in their showcase sire Not This Time (Giant’s Causeway) at the second edition of the Keeneland Championship Sale, to be held in the Del Mar paddock in the build-up to the Breeders' Cup on October 29. Unusually, the share will include all income from Not This Time’s 2025 breeding season. His fee at Taylor Made this year was US$175,000 (approx. AU$264,530). The share is being offered by Aaron and Marie Jones LLC, the operation which has produced the likes of multiple Grade 1 winner Ashado (Saint Ballado), Breeders’ Cup Sprint (Gr 1, 6f) winner and leading sire Speightstown (Gone West), Breeders’ Cup Classic (Gr 1, 10f) winner Drosselmeyer (Distorted Humor) and the exciting Ted Noffey (Into Mischief). Not This Time, a son of Giant’s Causeway (Storm Cat) who is currently second in the national standings, is the sire of eight Grade 1 winners and has excelled on both dirt and turf. Headlining his early crops are dirt champion Epicenter, turf champion Up To The Mark and top turf sprinter-turned Widden Stud shuttler Cogburn.

US: Midshipman colt heads Keeneland's Wednesday session

Nursery Place's Midshipman (Unbridled’s Song) colt topped Wednesday’s ninth session of the Keeneland September Yearling Sale when purchased by Wesley Ward for US$270,000 (approx. AU$408,130). Out of stakes-placed winner Tiz Rae Anna (Tiz Wonderful), the colt is from the family of Grade 2 winner Debutant’s Halo (Sunny’s Halo). The figures once again maintained their upward trajectory. On Wednesday, 303 yearlings sold through the ring for US$15,405,500 (approx. AU$23.28 million), up 12 per cent from last year’s session nine gross of US$13,744,000 for 308 horses. The average price of US$50,843 (approx. AU$76,850) was 14 per cent above US$44,623 last year, while the median increased 14 per cent from US$35,000 to US$40,000 (approx. AU$60,460). Cumulatively, Keeneland has sold 2,074 yearlings through the ring for US$487,629,500 (approx. AU$737.1 million), for an average of US$235,115 (approx. AU$355,390) and a median of US$150,000 (approx. AU$226,740). The total is up 23 per cent from the corresponding period last year when the gross was US$396,213,500 for 2,048 horses. The average rose 222 per cent from US$193,464 in 2024, while the median increased 36 per cent from US$110,000.

Stallion Fees

Caspar Fownes shines with Happy Valley four-timer

Lo Rider sealed a four-timer for Fownes (Credit: HKJC)

By Leo Schlink

ANZ News

Reprising his role as ‘King of the Valley,’ Caspar Fownes vaulted to the top of the 2025/26 Hong Kong trainers’ championship with a quartet at Happy Valley on Wednesday night.

Hong Kong’s most successful trainer at the track, Fownes boosted his career tally of wins at Happy Valley to 633 after combining with Ellis Wong to post a race-to-race double with Silver Spurs (Charm Spirit) and Mighty Commander (Artie Schiller) before Hugh Bowman triumphed on Rocket Spade (Fastnet Rock), with Harry Bentley delivering a fourth success on Lo Rider (Harzand).

“Half the card, so very happy – it’s a good night. I thought I would have a good night coming here tonight but racing is racing. You always need some luck,” Fownes said after talented Lo Rider claimed a PP Bonus of HK$3 million (approx. AU$580,500) by winning the Class 2 Shek O Handicap (1650m) to crown a stellar meeting for the four-time Hong Kong champion trainer.

“I’m very happy, especially for the last winner [Lo Rider] because the owner [Caspar Fownes Trainer Syndicate] gets a big bonus and the horse is first time at Happy Valley, so it was nice to see a great effort. So, all in all, it’s been a lovely night.

“I’m very proud of him and he’s a chance to continue on. He performed very well last season and ran a close fourth in the [Hong Kong] Derby and a lot of his runs were very close and obviously in Hong Kong when you have your second season, you can start to settle into the system, especially being a European horse, and progress – and he’s doing that.”

Formerly known as Sharinay, the Harzand (Sea The Stars) gelding won twice in Ireland before transferring to Fownes’ stable.

Jubilant after firing in a brace, Wong said: “It’s good, especially to have these winners for Caspar, he gives me a lot of support. Both horses ran well, so it’s great.”

Silver Spurs justified Fownes’ patience with victory in the Class 5 Chung Hom Kok Handicap (1000m). The Charm Spirit (Invincible Spirit) gelding suffered a lung infection in 2024 and pastern injuries earlier in 2025 before prevailing at his 11th start.

Wong angled Mighty Commander away from the fence to have the Artie Schiller (El Prado) gelding in a striking position mid-race before surging to his second win in 16 Hong Kong starts.

Rocket Spade continued to build a strong record at Happy Valley with victory in the Class 3 Community Chest Cup Handicap (1650m), finishing stoutly to overhaul Star Contact (Star Turn) and Another Zonda (The Autumn Sun).

Karis Teetan opened his winning account for the season with the spectacular success of Forever Folks (Tavistock) in the Class 4 Lido Handicap (1800m). A clear last early after missing the start, the Hong Kong International Sale graduate sprinted sharply in the straight on his first start for Danny Shum.

“It’s nice to get the first win, it took a couple of meetings. I was close in a couple of races, but you have to be strong mentally in Hong Kong and always try to look forward,” Teetan said.

“The owner, Mr So, has been a great supporter and it always helps when you get that support. When the horse caught the field and I pulled him out at the 600 metres, he was travelling but I thought the straight would be too short.

“But he was extending and in the straight, I always thought he would get there.”

Teetan and Shum also struck with Master Champion (I Am Invincible) in the first section of the Class 4 Hoi Mei Handicap (1200m), before Lyle Hewitson and Mark Newnham prevailed with progressive King Lotus (Royal Meeting) to land the third section of the Class 4 Hoi Mei Handicap (1200m).

Superb Capitalist (Capitalist) enhanced his imposing Happy Valley record with his sixth win at the course, clinching the Class 3 Repulse Bay Handicap (1000m) for Tony Cruz and Matthew Chadwick.

The six-year-old has two wins at 1000 metres and four at 1200 metres as well as another victory over 1200 metres at Sha Tin, with Wednesday’s success taking the gelding’s prize-money beyond HK$10 million (approx. AU$1.93 million).

Hong Kong racing continues at Sha Tin on Sunday.

Maiden Of The Week

Benevac (AUS)

3 g Bivouac - Houston Benefactor by Encosta De Lago

Benevac (Credit: Magic Millions)

Author Name

Author Title

Benevac (AUS)

3yo: (Oct 03, 2022)

Trainer: Ciaron Maher

Owner: Dynamic Ladies (Mgr: Mrs F K Watt), Mrs K Coopersmith, Mrs J A Kayess, Mrs C Freeman, Ms J E Mors, Mrs B K Bennell, Mrs P Smith, Dr L Vaughan, Mrs V A Warton, Mrs K J Mitchell, Miss TL Mcmanus & Segenhoe Ladies (Mgr: Mrs S Grosvenor)

Sire: Bivouac

Dam: Houston Benefactor

Dam's Sire: Encosta de Lago

Breeder: Segenhoe Thoroughbreds Australia Pty Ltd

The Ciaron Maher-trained Benevac (Bivouac) continued his progression on Wednesday when getting off the mark at the third attempt in an 1100-metre maiden at Canterbury.

Having kicked off his career with an eighth-placed effort - beaten six lengths - in the Lonhro Plate (Listed, 1000m) on debut in February, the son of Bivouac (Exceed And Excel) returned as a three-year-old with a third-placed run at Gosford at the end of last month before improving two places on Wednesday.

Ridden by Tim Clark, the gelding jumped away well from the outside barrier and sat close to the pace before hitting the front inside the 200 metres and fending off the late challenge of Buckeye (Zousain) to score by 0.1 lengths.

There was a further 1.6 lengths back to his third-placed stablemate Pierro Lad (Pierro).

“Obviously, around this track if you can skip away like he did, especially, as he’d had a run under his belt, so we were comfortable doing that,” Maher's stable rep Johann Gerard-Dubord said.

“He's always been showing a bit of talent, that's why we started him in that race [Lonhro Plate] last prep. He did a few things wrong that day and so he's been gilded since.

“He was good first-up and improved on the back of that, and yeah, it was tough today. So good to get a job done. Great to get the job done for Dynamic [Syndications, owner]. They're very good supporters and Adam's [Watt] granddad, Cyril, is not very well, and I think that means a lot to them.”

Purchased out of the Segenhoe Stud draft at the 2024 Magic Millions Yearling Sale by Dynamic Syndications and Dean Watt Bloodstock for $140,000, Benevac is the sixth winner from seven to race out of the Encosta De Lago (Fairy King) mare Houston Benefactor, herself a sister to Group 2 winner Sovereign Nation.

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Results

Thursday, September 18, 2025

Tab Meetings

Beaudesert QLD Soft(5)

Show

Beaudesert QLD Soft(5)

R1: Aquis 2025 Safety Net Mdn Hcp, $30,000, 1100m

Innervisions (AUS) (br G 4 I Am Invincible (AUS) - Modern Wonder (AUS)
T: Annabel & Rob Archibald J: D Moor
Encrypted Feeling (AUS) (b G 3 Encryption (AUS) - Fleeting Feeling (AUS))
Usual Limits (AUS) (b/br M 4 Outreach (AUS) - Tropicana Girl (AUS))

Margins: 2.5 lens, 0.8 lens. Time: 1:03.10 (last 600m 34.40)

R2: Officiating First Foals Mdn Hcp, $30,000, 1400m

Captain Eagle (AUS) (ch G 5 Per Incanto (USA) - Nasaayim (AUS)
T: P & W Hulbert J: M R Du Plessis
Something Shiny (AUS) (ch G 4 Performer (AUS) - Glisten (AUS))
Chayse'n' the King (AUS) (b M 6 Maurice (JPN) - Helena Girl (AUS))

Margins: 2.8 lens, 0.4 lens. Time: 1:22.58 (last 600m 35.63)

R3: Prost @ Aquis Stallions Plate (C1), $28,000, 2450m

Tennessee Whiskey (NZ) (b G 5 Rock Hero (AUS) - Smash Hit (AUS)
T: Peter Robl J: D Peisley
Trump Card (NZ) (b G 5 Ace High (AUS) - May Rain (AUS))
Jimmy Nails (AUS) (b G 6 Xtravagant (NZ) - It's Fun (AUS))

Margins: 1.8 lens, 1 lens. Time: 2:36.49 (last 600m 36.60)

R4: Beaudesertraceclub.com.au Plate (C1), $28,000, 1650m

Mishani Reactor (AUS) (b G 4 The Mission (AUS) - Fallen for You (AUS)
T: Beau Gorman J: Paige Fergusson-Smith
Welly (AUS) (ch G 4 Encryption (AUS) - Elsaray (AUS))
Rockrata (AUS) (br G 4 Pierata (AUS) - Rock Robster (AUS))

Margins: 0.2 lens, 1.3 lens. Time: 1:40.48 (last 600m 36.38)

R5: Vale Leanne Hartley Hcp (C3), $28,000, 1200m

Smart Recognition (AUS) (b G 5 Smart Missile (Aus) - Admission (AUS)
T: Chris Anderson J: Damien Thornton
Vacillation (AUS) (b G 4 Snitzel (AUS) - Indecision (NZ))
Fortuneer (AUS) (b M 5 Rubick (AUS) - Sudden Wealth (AUS))

Margins: 0.5 lens, 2 lens. Time: 1:9.920 (last 600m 34.56)

R6: Kobayashi @ Aquis Stallions (Bm62), $28,000, 1100m

Kelly's Landing (AUS) (ch M 5 The Mission (AUS) - Kelleeliza (AUS)
T: Brent Gray J: Justin Huxtable
Don't be Dramatic (AUS) (b G 5 Super One (AUS) - Darcibelle (NZ))
Salt Lake Betty (AUS) (b M 5 Heroic Valour (AUS) - Lavender Hill (AUS))

Margins: 3.8 lens, 0.8 lens. Time: 1:02.32 (last 600m 33.93)

R7: Jonker @ Aquis Stallions (Bm65), $28,000, 1400m

Zousain Bolt (AUS) (b G 4 Zousain (AUS) - Xaarfoxylady (AUS)
T: Annabel & Rob Archibald J: H Van Der Hoven
Sukhbir (AUS) (br G 6 Super One (AUS) - Warrior of Peace (AUS))
Benfica Lass (AUS) (bl M 6 Benfica (AUS) - Guilty or Innocent (AUS))

Margins: 0.1 lens, 0.2 lens. Time: 1:21.73 (last 600m 35.59)

R8: Next Raceday 23 November Hcp (58), $28,000, 1400m

Von Bee (NZ) (b G 6 Contributer (IRE) - Shimmy (NZ)
T: S B Laming J: Jaden Lloyd
Beat Hollow (AUS) (b G 7 Outreach (AUS) - Warrilla (AUS))
Something Forjo (AUS) (ch M 5 Impending (AUS) - Forjo (AUS))

Margins: 0.5 lens, 0.1 lens. Time: 1:22.22 (last 600m 36.56)

Bunbury WA Soft(6)

Show

Bunbury WA Soft(6)

R1: Join The Club – Become A Bunbury Member Mdn, $25,000, 1200m

Chama (AUS) (br G 3 Playing God (AUS) - Parc D'amour (AUS)
T: Mitchell Pateman J: P Carbery
Tabba Tabba Boom (AUS) (br F 3 War Chant (USA) - Soy Tan Rapido (AUS))
Vivalda (AUS) (b F 3 Astern (AUS) - Valeria (AUS))

Margins: 1.1 lens, 0.1 lens. Time: 1:13.5 (last 600m 35.86)

R2: Family Fun Day - Monday 29th September Hcp (C1), $30,000, 1400m

Mississippi Dawn (AUS) (b M 4 Pierro (AUS) - Mississippi Delta (AUS)
T: Michael Grantham J: C Johnston-Porter
Golden Kathleen (AUS) (b/br M 4 Leonardo da Hinchi (AUS) - Hopetoun (NZ))
Mavis Myrtle (AUS) (b M 4 Ducimus (AUS) - Bill's O'Reilly (AUS))

Margins: 0.5 lens, 0.3 lens. Time: 1:26.83 (last 600m 35.76)

R3: Bunbury Volkswagen Mdn, $25,000, 1685m

Exquisite Taste (AUS) (br G 4 So You Think (NZ) - Danalicious (AUS)
T: Michael Grantham J: C Johnston-Porter
Old Mate Henry (AUS) (ch G 4 My Admiration (AUS) - Blooper (AUS))
Classic Turn (AUS) (br M 4 Astern (AUS) - Classics (AUS))

Margins: 0.7 lens, 3.1 lens. Time: 1:45.87 (last 600m 37.31)

R4: You’ve Got The TABtouch Mdn, $25,000, 1100m

Rolling Ruler (AUS) (b G 4 Universal Ruler (AUS) - Extreme Dreams (AUS)
T: B V Watkins J: T Turner
God's Grin (AUS) (b M 4 Playing God (AUS) - Soldier's Smile (AUS))
Speak Of The Devil (AUS) (b/br G 4 So Secret (AUS) - Stir Pak (AUS))

Margins: 0.4 lens, 1.9 lens. Time: 1:07.35 (last 600m 35.76)

R5: Swan Draught Mdn, $25,000, 1400m

Grandad's Adiction (AUS) (br G 4 God Has Spoken (AUS) - Tiff's Special (AUS)
T: Ms S L Miller J: J Whiting
Wynn Las Vegas (AUS) (ch G 3 Yes Yes Yes (AUS) - I'm Feeling Lucky (AUS))
Extreme Ruler (AUS) (b G 5 Universal Ruler (AUS) - Extreme Dreams (AUS))

Margins: 0.6 lens, 1.8 lens. Time: 1:26.81 (last 600m 37.63)

R6: Nixon Electrical Hcp (C5), $30,000, 1400m

Speak to Me (AUS) (b G 6 God Has Spoken (AUS) - Indezone (AUS)
T: P J Giadresco J: P Carbery
Climb on Top (AUS) (b/br G 6 Demerit (AUS) - Time to Climb (AUS))
Miss Wall Street (AUS) (b M 5 Manhattan Rain (AUS) - Street Value (AUS))

Margins: 1.2 lens, 0.8 lens. Time: 1:26.58 (last 600m 36.99)

R7: Melbourne Cup On Sale @ Bunbury Hcp (C3), $30,000, 1685m

Runforrob (AUS) (b G 7 Demerit (AUS) - Dr Ava (AUS)
T: P J Naylor J: Jade Mc Naught
Pharoah Show (AUS) (b G 4 American Pharoah (USA) - Showmeyamoneyhoney (NZ))
Prince Epaulette (AUS) (b/br G 4 Epaulette (AUS) - Princess Pierro (AUS))

Margins: 0.5 lens, 1.7 lens. Time: 1:45.92 (last 600m 37.03)

Kembla Grange NSW Good(4)

Show

Kembla Grange NSW Good(4)

R1: Dapto Citizens Bowling Club Provincial Mdn Hcp, $45,000, 1000m

Missie Lee (AUS) (b M 4 Smart Missile (AUS) - Had Every Chance (AUS)
T: Blake Ryan J: J Ford
Uncle Barry (NZ) (b G 4 Tivaci (AUS) - Mary Gold (NZ))
Ex Wife (AUS) (b G 5 Exosphere (AUS) - Betrayed (AUS))

Margins: 0.1 lens, 0.2 lens. Time: 0:57.32 (last 600m 33.40)

R2: Shoalhaven Ex-Servicemen's Club Hcp (C1), $42,000, 1500m

Horizons (AUS) (b M 4 The Autumn Sun (AUS) - Sabanci (AUS)
T: Richard & Will Freedman J: Dylan Gibbons
Attica (AUS) (b C 3 Lonhro (AUS) - Savatiano (AUS))
Squeezebox (AUS) (b G 4 Epaulette (AUS) - Zydeco (AUS))

Margins: 2 lens, 3.5 lens. Time: 1:29.03 (last 600m 34.47)

R3: Bomaderry Bowling Club Super Mdn Hcp, $60,000, 1500m

Reflect (AUS) (br F 3 So You Think (NZ) - Miss Foxwood (AUS)
T: Joseph Pride J: C Schofield
Decalogue (AUS) (b C 3 Extreme Choice (AUS) - Commandment (AUS))
Fashionable (NZ) (br F 3 Savabeel (AUS) - Mary Quant (NZ))

Margins: 0.5 lens, 1 lens. Time: 1:30.08 (last 600m 35.38)

R4: Phil Ryan Memorial Mdn Hcp, $42,000, 1300m

In and Out (AUS) (b G 4 Brutal (NZ) - Catch a Wave (AUS)
T: C J Waller J: Tyler Schiller
Cool Rupert (AUS) (b G 3 Winning Rupert (AUS) - Cool One (AUS))
Onmalone (AUS) (b/br G 3 Menari (AUS) - Love's a Fantasy (AUS))

Margins: 0.8 lens, 0.2 lens. Time: 1:17.68 (last 600m 34.40)

R5: Shoalhaven Heads Bowling & Recreation Club Midway Hcp (C1), $45,000, 1200m

Jacob's Ladder (AUS) (b G 4 Written By (AUS) - Ladder (AUS)
T: John Thompson J: Zac Lloyd
Tong Ho (AUS) (b G 3 Exceed and Excel (AUS) - Crown Daisy (USA))
Dusty Bay (AUS) (b/br G 3 Sandbar (AUS) - Magic Dust (AUS))

Margins: 1.3 lens, 0.3 lens. Time: 1:10.98 (last 600m 33.72)

R6: Gerringong Bowling & Recreation Club (Bm64), $42,000, 1000m

Whatalegacy (AUS) (b C 3 King's Legacy (AUS) - Whatalovelyday (AUS)
T: Bjorn Baker J: Dylan Gibbons
Sociable (AUS) (b G 4 Yes Yes Yes (AUS) - Workdrinks (AUS))
Cani Cancan (AUS) (b M 5 Russian Revolution (AUS) - Gone to Paris (AUS))

Margins: 2.8 lens, 0.1 lens. Time: 0:56.58 (last 600m 33.21)

R7: Dapto Leagues Club (Bm64), $42,000, 1500m

Cosmic Lad (AUS) (br G 5 Adelaide (IRE) - Halimede (AUS)
T: Joseph Pride J: Mitch Stapleford
Perfect Play (GB) (b G 5 Siyouni (FR) - Giants Play (USA))
Greygenta (AUS) (gr M 4 D'Argento (AUS) - Aspiring (AUS))

Margins: 0.2 lens, 0.2 lens. Time: 1:30.58 (last 600m 34.87)

Mornington VIC Good(4)

Show

Mornington VIC Good(4)

R1: The Big Screen Company Mdn Plate, $42,500, 2000m

Wondering Spirit (NZ) (b G 4 Ribchester (IRE) - Tully Thunder (AUS)
T: M Price & M Kent Jnr J: B Melham
Peeaitchdee (AUS) (b/br G 4 So You Think (NZ) - Folk Dress (AUS))
Siva Tau (AUS) (b/br G 3 Tagaloa (AUS) - Savvy Move (NZ))

Margins: 0.1 lens, 5.4 lens. Time: 2:03.79 (last 600m)

R2: Sportsbet Feed Mdn Plate, $42,500, 1600m

Capital Grace (AUS) (ch M 4 Capitalist (AUS) - Chevovessence (AUS)
T: E & D Browne J: Lachlan Neindorf
Zouclaire (AUS) (br F 3 Zousain (AUS) - Dame Claire (NZ))
Ilovethistown (AUS) (b G 4 Ilovethiscity (AUS) - Liturgy (AUS))

Margins: 1 lens, 0.8 lens. Time: 1:38.65 (last 600m)

R3: Betavet Mdn Plate, $42,500, 1200m

Sassy For Sure (AUS) (ch F 3 Doubtland (AUS) - Sassy Salitage (AUS)
T: P Stokes J: Lachlan Neindorf
St Edward (AUS) (b/br G 3 I Am Invincible (AUS) - Diademe (NZ))
Sulek (NZ) (ch G 3 Super Seth (AUS) - Tiff And Co (NZ))

Margins: 0.5 lens, 0.5 lens. Time: 1:10.28 (last 600m)

R4: Barmah Park Restaurant And Cellar Door Mdn Plate, $42,500, 1000m

Doc's Nipper (AUS) (b G 4 Squamosa (AUS) - Doc's Hero (AUS)
T: Greg Hayes J: Celine Gaudray
Behave Shamus (AUS) (br G 4 Shamus Award (AUS) - Behave (AUS))
Donebravo (AUS) (br G 3 Strasbourg (AUS) - Encapsulate (AUS))

Margins: 0.3 lens, 1.5 lens. Time: 0:58.79 (last 600m)

R5: Louvretec Melbourne (Bm62), $35,000, 1000m

Bazaball Rewarded (AUS) (b M 4 Reward for Effort (AUS) - Bazaruto (AUS)
T: Kelvin Southey J: J Mott
Abovethefrostline (AUS) (gr M 5 Frosted (USA) - Donna Quiano (AUS))
Ellicazam (AUS) (b M 5 Capitalist (AUS) - Ellibuba (AUS))

Margins: 4.8 lens, 2 lens. Time: 0:56.8 (last 600m)

R6: Brad Masters Plumbing (Bm62), $35,000, 1200m

Fridge Monster (AUS) (b G 5 Overshare (AUS) - Danish Whiskey (AUS)
T: D Binaisse J: Sheridan Clarke
Cash Converter (AUS) (ch G 5 Headwater (AUS) - Skillz That Killz (AUS))
Headstock (AUS) (b/br G 6 Headwater (AUS) - Black 'n' Tough (AUS))

Margins: 0.2 lens, 0.8 lens. Time: 1:10.40 (last 600m)

R7: Modtech (Bm62), $35,000, 1500m

Nursery Chime (AUS) (br M 7 Holler (AUS) - Three Little Pigs (AUS)
T: Lloyd Kennewell J: Luke Cartwright
Finale (AUS) (ch M 5 Extreme Choice (AUS) - Good Looking Mare (AUS))
Norwoods (NZ) (b G 5 Vadamos (FR) - Wee Gilly (NZ))

Margins: 0.5 lens, 2 lens. Time: 1:30.65 (last 600m)

R8: Denistoun Park (Bm62), $35,000, 2000m

My Roca Fella (NZ) (b G 5 El Roca (AUS) - Given With Love (AUS)
T: John McArdle J: Celine Gaudray
Makamae (NZ) (gr M 4 Reliable Man (GB) - Alamea (AUS))
Another Nephew (AUS) (b G 5 Sizzling (AUS) - Husson's Kiss (AUS))

Margins: 1.5 lens, 1.5 lens. Time: 2:04.31 (last 600m)

Stakes Fields

Friday, September 19, 2025

Sharp Office Newcastle Gold Cup (GR 3)

Show

Sharp Office Newcastle Gold Cup (GR 3)

$300,000, Newcastle 4:05pm (NSW), 3yo+ Handicap, 2300m.

Mehzebeen (NZ) 3
b m 6 Almanzor (FR) - Salkantay (NZ) (Zabeel (NZ))
B: Pencarrow Thoroughbreds Ltd, Waikato, NZ T: C J Waller J: A Hyeronimus
NZD50,000, New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale 2021,
V: Pencarrow Stud P: Sarai Stud
Wyclif (GB) 7
b g 8 Archipenko (USA) - Altruiste (GB) (Montjeu (IRE))
B: K. Rausing & BBA 2010 Ltd T: C Maher J: C Schofield
AUD47,500, William Inglis & Son Pty. Ltd. Inglis Digital February Sale 2 2023,
V: Account of Owners P: Summers T/breds
AUD22,500, William Inglis & Son Pty. Ltd. Inglis Digital December Sale 2022,
V: Owner P: FED B/stock
gns30,000, Tattersalls October Yearling Sale (Book 3) 2018,
V: Staffordstown, Ireland P: Jeremy Brummitt
Belvedere Boys (AUS) 6
ch g 6 Maurice (JPN) - Leveller (AUS) (Redoute's Choice (AUS))
B: M & C Lowe Bloodstock QLD T: M J Dunn J: Ashley Morgan
AUD0, Magic Millions National Yearling Sale 2021,
V: Vinery Stud P: null
Royal Supremacy (IRE) 4
b g 4 Make Believe (GB) - Adelasia (IRE) (Iffraaj (GB))
B: John O'Connor T: C Maher J: J R Collett
Don Diego de Vega (FR) 10
gr g 5 Lope de Vega (IRE) - Fairly Fair (FR) (Sinndar (IRE))
B: S.A.S.U. Ecurie Des Monceaux, Langlais Bloodstock & Partners T: Annabel & Rob Archibald J:
EUR90,000, Arqana Deauville October Yearlings 2021,
V: Monceaux P: HUBERT GUY BLOODSTOCK
Trust in You (NZ) 12
br g 7 Sweynesse (AUS) - Shinko Bay (NZ) (Shinko King (IRE))
B: Explosive Breeding Ltd, Central, NZ T: B Wallace & G Cooksley J: Regan Bayliss
NZD26,000, New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale 2020,
V: Novara Park P: Wallace T/breds
Travolta (GB) 8
ch g 4 Lope de Vega (IRE) - Hertford Dancer (GB) (Foxwedge (AUS))
B: Highclere Stud & Mrs Michelle Morris T: C J Waller J:
GBG140,000, Tattersalls October Yearling Sale (Book 1) 2022,
V: Highclere Stud P: James Ferguson Racing
Tajanis (IRE) 9
b g 5 Australia (GB) - Baheeja (GB) (Dubawi (IRE))
B: Godolphin T: C J Waller J:
GNS40,000, Tattersalls Autumn Horses In Training Sale 2023,
V: Somerville Lodge Ltd. (W. Haggas), Agent P: Go Racing NZ
Soul of Spain (IRE) 2
br g 4 Phoenix of Spain (GB) - Aimhirgin Lass (IRE) (Pivotal (GB))
B: Irish National Stud T: C J Waller J:
EUR160,000, Arqana Deauville May 2yo Breeze Up 2023,
V: Greenhills Farm P: BLANDFORD BLOODSTOCK / GO RACING NZ
EUR50,000, Goffs Ireland Orby Yearling Sale 2022,
V: Irish National Stud P: Greenhills Farm
Indifference (AUS) 11
ch g 7 Kermadec (NZ) - Insouciance (AUS) (Quest for Fame (GB))
B: Godolphin Australia NSW T: B F Cavanough J: Braith Nock
AUD25,000, William Inglis & Son Pty. Ltd. Inglis Digital February Sale 2 2023,
V: Godolphin P: David Kok
So You Are (AUS) 5
b/br g 4 So You Think (NZ) - Tornado Gal (AUS) (Hard Spun (USA))
B: Ramsey Pastoral Pty Ltd NSW T: Stirling Osland J: B Looker
AUD0, Magic Millions National Yearling Sale 2023,
V: Lime Country Thoroughbreds P: null

Localsearch Cameron Hcp (GR 3)

Show

Localsearch Cameron Hcp (GR 3)

$250,000, Newcastle 4:40pm (NSW), 3yo+ Handicap, 1500m.

Tavi Time (NZ) 8
b g 6 Tavistock (NZ) - Guiseppina (NZ) (Johar (USA))
B: Pencarrow Thoroughbreds Ltd, Waikato, NZ T: K A Lees J: J Ford
AUD130,000, William Inglis & Son Pty. Ltd. Sydney Ready to Race 2021,
V: Kiltannon Stables P: A Pazman
NZD60,000, New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale 2021,
V: Pencarrow Stud P: Kiltannon Stables
Al Mubhir (GB) 11
ch g 6 Frankel (GB) - Muffri'ha (IRE) (Iffraaj (GB))
B: Rabbah Bloodstock Limited T: Annabel & Rob Archibald J:
Headley Grange (AUS) 10
b g 5 Exosphere (AUS) - Hard Go Jo (AUS) (Hard Spun (USA))
B: Mr RJ Manwaring NSW T: Joseph Pride J: A Hyeronimus
AUD120,000, William Inglis & Son Pty. Ltd. Inglis Digital November Sale 2 2023,
V: Owners P: HDB B/stock
Detonator Jack (NZ) 20
br g 7 Jakkalberry (IRE) - Red Delicious (NZ) (No Excuse Needed (GB))
B: C P & S A Dunphy, Waikato, NZ T: C Maher J:
AUD35,000, William Inglis & Son Pty. Ltd. Inglis Digital September Sale 2023,
V: Esker Lodge Australia P: Denise Scriven
NZD0, New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale 2020,
V: Prima Park P: null
Palmetto (NZ) 12
b g 7 Ghibellines (AUS) - Carolina Island (NZ) (Darci Brahma (NZ))
B: C R & Mrs M N Smith, M C Stokes & Est late L J Howard, Canterbury, NZ T: J G Sargent J: J Parr
NZD0, New Zealand Bloodstock South Island Sale 2020,
V: Three Valleys P: null
McHale (AUS) 13
b g 5 Shooting to Win (AUS) - Xaar's Jewel (AUS) (Xaar (GB))
B: Mrs M Wright NSW T: C J Waller J:
AUD160,000, William Inglis & Son Pty. Ltd. Classic Yearling Sale 2022,
V: Edinglassie Stud P: Star T/breds/Randwick B/stock Agency FBAA
Converge (AUS) 19
b g 7 Frankel (GB) - Conversely (IRE) (Shamardal (USA))
B: Evergreen Rich Pty Ltd NSW T: G Waterhouse & A Bott J: Tim Clark
Grebeni (AUS) 17
ch g 6 Ocean Park (NZ) - Dubrovnik (AUS) (Medaglia d'Oro (USA))
B: Dalanna Bloodstock NSW T: G Ryan & S Alexiou J: K Mc Evoy
AUD100,000, Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale 2021,
V: Tyreel Stud P: Gerald Ryan/Sterling Alexiou
Swiftfalcon (AUS) 16
b g 4 Exceedance (AUS) - Tempting Delight (AUS) (Northern Meteor (AUS))
B: R & C Legh Racing Pty Ltd VIC T: M, W & J Hawkes J: Tyler Schiller
Depth of Character (AUS) 15
b g 4 Deep Field (AUS) - Caricature (NZ) (Power (GB))
B: China Horse Club Racing Pty Ltd NSW T: Annabel & Rob Archibald J: C Schofield
AUD180,000, Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale 2023,
V: The Chase P: Annabel Neasham Racing
Matusalem (AUS) 21
br g 5 The Autumn Sun (AUS) - Miss Dodwell (AUS) (Falbrav (IRE))
B: Arrowfield Pastoral Pty Ltd NSW T: C J Waller J:
AUD500,000, Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale 2022,
V: Arrowfield Stud P: Chris Waller Racing / Mulcaster B/stock
Vivy Air (AUS) 5
b m 5 Hellbent (AUS) - Head Over Heels (AUS) (Fastnet Rock (AUS))
B: O T I Racing VIC T: C Maher J:
Berkshire Shadow (GB) 9
gr g 6 Dark Angel (IRE) - Angel Vision (IRE) (Oasis Dream (GB))
B: Cheveley Park Stud Limited T: C Maher J:
GNS40,000, Tattersalls October Yearling Sale (Book 1) 2020,
V: Cheveley Park Stud Ltd. P: Andrew Balding
Imperialist (NZ) 4
b g 4 Churchill (IRE) - Dancing Hare (AUS) (Fastnet Rock (AUS))
B: Arkle Bloodstock & G R Cunningham, Waikato, NZ T: C J Waller J:
NZD170,000, New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale 2023,
V: Curraghmore P: Chris Waller Racing / Mulcaster B/stock
Ruby Flyer (AUS) 3
b g 7 Flying Artie (AUS) - Kellyville Flyer (AUS) (Oratorio (IRE))
B: Mr J Kelly NSW T: Brad Widdup J: Dylan Gibbons
Magnatear (AUS) 6
ch g 6 Written Tycoon (AUS) - Cries and Whiskers (AUS) (Street Cry (IRE))
B: Mr I Cornell NSW T: Richard & Will Freedman J: Zac Lloyd
AUD200,000, Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale 2021,
V: Widden Stud P: Sam Kavanagh Racing
Geriatrix (AUS) 18
br h 5 Almanzor (FR) - Its Our Showtime (NZ) (Showcasing (GB))
B: Mr B Lindsay NSW T: C J Waller J:
NZD675,000, New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale 2022,
V: Cambridge Stud P: Bruce Perry B/stock
Pocketing (AUS) 2
br g 4 Grunt (NZ) - Pickpocket (AUS) (High Chaparral (IRE))
B: Yulong Investments Yulong Stud VIC T: Richard & Will Freedman J:
Fully Lit (AUS) 7
b g 4 Hellbent (AUS) - Sunlit (AUS) (Snitzel (AUS))
B: Glenlogan Park Pty Ltd QLD T: G Waterhouse & A Bott J: Regan Bayliss
AUD60,000, William Inglis & Son Pty. Ltd. Classic Yearling Sale 2023,
V: Glenlogan Park P: Redfox Racing
Inquiring Minds (GB) 14
b g 5 Kingman (GB) - Precious Ramotswe (GB) (Nathaniel (IRE))
B: Hascombe & Valiant Stud Ltd T: John O'Shea & Tom Charlton J:
GNS68,000, Tattersalls Autumn Horses In Training Sale 2023,
V: The Castlebridge Consignment P: Hurworth Bloodstock / John O'Shea Racing AUS

NZB Tibbie Stakes (GR 3)

Show

NZB Tibbie Stakes (GR 3)

$250,000, Newcastle 3:25pm (NSW), 3yo+ Set Weight With Penalties, 1400m.

Real Class (NZ) 10
b m 4 Vadamos (FR) - Mill Duckie (NZ) (Magic Ring (IRE))
B: Nearco Stud Limited, Canterbury, NZ T: C J Waller J: A Hyeronimus
Elettrica (NZ) 2
br m 7 Vespa (NZ) - On the Move (AUS) (More Than Ready (USA))
B: K J Hickman ONZM, Canterbury, NZ T: Richard & Will Freedman J: A B Collett
Dark Glitter (AUS) 3
b m 5 Spieth (NZ) - Berning Affair (AUS) (Bernardini (USA))
B: M F & L M van Gestel NSW T: M F Van Gestel J: Molly Bourke
Vivy Air (AUS) 16
b m 5 Hellbent (AUS) - Head Over Heels (AUS) (Fastnet Rock (AUS))
B: O T I Racing VIC T: C Maher J:
Oh Diamond Lil (AUS) 8
br m 5 So You Think (NZ) - Rare Diamond (AUS) (Redoute's Choice (AUS))
B: Meadowvale Pastoral Co Pty Ltd VIC T: David Pfieffer J:
AUD200,000, William Inglis & Son Pty. Ltd. Melbourne Premier Yearling Sale 2022,
V: Maluka Thoroughbreds P: David Pfieffer Racing / Koolman B/stock
Movin Out (NZ) 6
b m 4 Staphanos (JPN) - Wahaha (NZ) (Stravinsky (USA))
B: Ms E Shattock, Waikato, NZ T: C J Waller J: C Schofield
NZD24,000, New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale 2023,
V: Anistay Lodge P: GD Thurlow
Bossy Nic (AUS) 9
b/br m 5 Nicconi (AUS) - River Boss (AUS) (Street Boss (USA))
B: Miller Thoroughbreds Pty Ltd VIC T: T & C McEvoy J: Ashley Morgan
AUD190,000, William Inglis & Son Pty. Ltd. Melbourne Premier Yearling Sale 2022,
V: Noorilim Park P: McEvoy Mitchell Racing/Belmont B/stock Agency FBAA
Churchill's Choice (AUS) 18
b m 4 Churchill (IRE) - She's Choice (AUS) (Choisir (AUS))
B: K & L Investments (Aust) Pty Ltd NSW T: Nathan Doyle J: Rachel King
Countyourblessings (AUS) 17
b m 5 I Am Invincible (AUS) - Bidii Babe (AUS) (Not a Single Doubt (AUS))
B: Yarraman Park Stud Pty Ltd NSW T: John O'Shea & Tom Charlton J: A Adkins
AUD250,000, Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale 2022,
V: Yarraman Stud P: John O'Shea Racing
It's a Knockout (AUS) 12
b m 5 Dundeel (NZ) - Sport Chic (AUS) (Redoute's Choice (AUS))
B: Arrowfield Pastoral Pty Ltd NSW T: C Maher J: Tim Clark
AUD150,000, Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale 2022,
V: Arrowfield Stud P: Dynamic Syndications/Dean Watt B/stock
Overriding (AUS) 14
ch m 6 Star Turn (AUS) - My Hussy (AUS) (Hussonet (USA))
B: Mr G Harvey NSW T: Nathan Doyle J: K Mc Evoy
AUD35,000, Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale 2021,
V: Baramul Stud P: Nathan Doyle Racing/Oxford Lodge B/stock
Redbreast (AUS) 5
b m 5 American Pharoah (USA) - Silent Rush (AUS) (Charge Forward (AUS))
B: Glentree Pastoral Pty Ltd VIC T: G Waterhouse & A Bott J: Regan Bayliss
Shohisha (AUS) 21
b/br m 4 Supido (AUS) - Consommateur (NZ) (Roc de Cambes (NZ))
B: Dodgy Investments Pty Ltd QLD T: David Payne J:
More Territories (AUS) 4
b m 4 Territories (IRE) - More Than Faith (AUS) (More Than Ready (USA))
B: Mr RS Finemore NSW T: John O'Shea & Tom Charlton J: Dylan Gibbons
Imposant (AUS) 15
br m 5 Epaulette (AUS) - Sexy Siren (AUS) (Excites (AUS))
B: Mr A Carusi NSW T: K A Lees J: J Ford
Asgarda (AUS) 20
b m 6 The Brothers War (USA) - Minsk (AUS) (Husson (ARG))
B: Mr RL Gilbert NSW T: J G Sargent J: Braith Nock
Brigidine Gal (AUS) 19
b m 4 Al Maher (AUS) - Randwick Bound (AUS) (Beautiful Crown (USA))
B: Mr C Heywood NSW T: Joseph Pride J: Tyler Schiller
AUD5,000, William Inglis & Son Pty. Ltd. Inglis Digital March Sale 2 2023,
V: Kooringal Stud P: Francis Racing
Verona Rose (AUS) 13
b m 4 Castelvecchio (AUS) - Minamya (FR) (Makfi (GB))
B: Arrowfield Group Pty Ltd NSW T: G Portelli J: J R Collett
AUD40,000, William Inglis & Son Pty. Ltd. Classic Yearling Sale 2023,
V: Arrowfield Stud P: Portelli Racing
Tulsi (AUS) 11
b m 5 The Autumn Sun (AUS) - Talimena (AUS) (Lonhro (AUS))
B: Walker Racing and Bloodstock NSW T: Bjorn Baker J:
AUD550,000, William Inglis & Son Pty. Ltd. Classic Yearling Sale 2022,
V: Valiant Stud P: Glenn Burrows B/stock
Tuileries (AUS) 7
b m 4 So You Think (NZ) - Hediard (AUS) (Bernardini (USA))
B: G S A Bloodstock Pty Ltd VIC T: Peter Snowden J:
AUD360,000, Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale 2023,
V: Bhima Thoroughbreds P: Snowden Racing/William Johnson B/stock FBAA