Horse Racing News
Short journey to Sydney Cup no issue for Zardozi
Despite her preparation not following the traditional script, Godolphin is confident Zardozi is ready to contend in Saturday’s $5 million Sydney Cup. Most of her opponents have had recent runs over extended distances, but Zardozi heads into the race off a strong placing in the Australian Cup (2000m). Assistant trainer Darren Beadman...
Waller sees a lot to Leica about NZ filly in Australian Oaks
The 2024 Australian Oaks is shaping up as a blockbuster with Chris Waller calling it a “clash of the queens” as elite fillies from both sides of the Tasman prepare to go head-to-head. Waller has opted not to run Aeliana again after her dominant Derby performance, instead relying on Leica Lucy...
Patience pays off with Santa Ana Moon
The connections of Santa Ana Moon finally got their reward after a long wait, as the colt captured his maiden win in the Sportsbet Jockey Watch Plate (1200m) at Sandown. Prepared by Leon and Troy Corstens in partnership with Will Larkin, the three-year-old overcame early career interruptions to secure his breakthrough...
Better Bendigo track to suit Arran Bay in Golden Mile
Phillip Stokes is hopeful that Arran Bay can make an impact in Saturday’s Golden Mile at Bendigo, but concedes the gelding might still be one run away from peak condition. Arran Bay steps up from a 1200m first-up outing to 1600m in the Listed race and will have to overcome both...
Trainers hoping for Grand week with juveniles
A strong midweek performance from Grand Eagle has Ryan and Alexiou eyeing further juvenile success at The Championships this weekend. The promising colt broke through in the Good Luck Paris Eaton Handicap (1100m) at Hawkesbury, winning by 1-1/4 lengths in his third career outing. He had previously placed at Warwick Farm and...
Aeliana G1 Australian Oaks decision Tuesday, but start unlikely
Chris Waller is keeping his options open ahead of the ATC Australian Oaks, with a final decision on his runners to come Tuesday morning. It's unlikely, however, that Derby-winning filly Aeliana will back up for the Group 1 feature over 2400m. Waller, speaking from the Inglis Easter Yearling Sale, said that...
Determination pays off for Louis in the Geraldton Cup
Brandon Louis may not be a fixture in the biggest races week in, week out, but his determination and humility have helped him carve out a respected career in the Australian riding ranks. His journey since arriving in Australia has been defined by hard work, a positive outlook, and a firm...
Star WA training team primed for The Quokka bid
Grant and Alana Williams are optimistic that Western Empire is ready to fire first-up in The Quokka (1200m), where they’ll attempt to end Overpass’s unbeaten run in Perth. Last year’s bid with Triple Missile came up short, but this year the stable is much more confident, relying on the Group 1-winning...
Close relation to Zougotcha fetches $2.6m at Inglis Easter Yearling Sale
The second session of the Inglis Easter Yearling Sale delivered a memorable morning for Widden Stud, with two Zoustar yearlings producing standout results for the farm. A colt closely related to Group 1 star Schwarz fetched $1.4 million early in the day, while a Zoustar filly with ties to Zougotcha blew...
Ascot Recap: A new queen, a star returns, gun apprentice lands final blow
Ascot played host to an unforgettable day of racing over the weekend as the WA Oaks meeting brought together top-tier talent, rising stars, and key storylines ahead of the WA Derby. From dominant wins to breakthrough performances, the afternoon had something for everyone. WIN OF THE DAY A new era begins in...