The incomparable Rae ‘Togo’ Johnstone
From a German POW camp in France to the Arc de Triomphe William Raphael Johnstone (1905-1964), better known as Rae “Togo” Johnstone or “Le Crocodile”, was arguably the greatest of Australia’s international jockeys. Johnstone rode 50 winners of races which now have Group 1 status in England, Ireland and France. That included 29 Classics. No... Read More
‘It’s a matter of if we want to make the rules or somebody else wants to make them for us’
Industry identities call on governing bodies to embrace phasing out the whip A prominent breeder, a leading international owner and a former champion jockey have all urged authorities to embrace Racing Victoria’s contentious proposal to ban jockeys from using the whip in order to ensure the industry is able to retain the governance of the... Read More
Stallion Watch
New winners Bobby’s Kitten – Former Twin Hills Stud shuttler Bobby’s Kitten (Kitten’s Joy) sired his seventh individual winner when Mirage Mac (2 f ex Megachurch by Pulpit) made a successful debut to take out a seven furlong fillies’ novice contest on the Wolverhampton all-weather on Wednesday’s evening card. Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint (Gr 1,... Read More
Glimpse of first season sires’ stock on show in Sydney and Melbourne
Juveniles to step out in barrier trials and jump outs as build up to October races continues They don’t pay you for winning barrier trials, but a lot can hinge on the early season results for the heavily invested studmasters who have two-year-olds by their unproven young stallions hitting the track as the latest breeding... Read More
Moreira roars into action at season opener
Joao Moreira, winless on this day last year, made a roaring start to the 2020/2021 racing season with a winning treble at the opening meeting of the Hong Kong racing season at Sha Tin which also saw fierce riding rival Zac Purton, trainer John Size and his triumphantly returning contemporary David Hayes claim doubles. Moreira,... Read More
Hong Kong Sprint beckons as Perfect Match takes the HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup
Perfect Match (Not A Single Doubt) landed the spoils in yesterday’s Class 1 HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup Handicap (1200m) and did so with plenty in hand and also with December riches in mind, as trainer Danny Shum confirmed the 2020 Hong Kong Sprint (Gr 1, 1200m) as his long-term target. “I am aiming him toward... Read More