Course Specialist Magazine Q4 2019 by Course Specialist

OCTOBER 2019

Enable dominates the British Summer NEWMARKET GOLD SEASON

REVIEWS OF THE BIG SUMMER FESTIVALS

TATTERSALLS READY FOR ANOTHER EXCITING OCTOBER YEARLING SALE

INSIDE

THE JOCKEY CLUB ON ‘GOING GREEN’

THIS MAN... has trained EIGHT BOOK 1 BONUS WINNERS

purchased for an average price of 84,000gns £25,000 Tattersalls October Book 1 Bonus only at

TATTERSALLS OCTOBER YEARLING SALE, Book 1 OCTOBER 8 – 10 T: +44 1638 665931 sales@tattersalls.com www.tattersalls.com

EDITOR’S WELCOME

I bid you a warm and hearty welcome to the final issue of Course Specialist Magazine in 2019.

ince we last published, the meat of the 2019 turf flat season has taken place with a plethora of summer festivals which we review here, whilst paying homage to the Queen of racing, Enable, who has illuminated the year yet again. At the time of writing, we are looking forward to the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and Enable’s attempt to win the great race for an unprecedented third time. In this issue we look ahead to Newmarket’s Gold Season, covering the Cambridgeshire Meeting and Future Champions Festival, along with the Tattersalls October Yearling Sales. We speak to Jason Singh, Marketing Manager at Tattersalls, to get a flavour for why Book 1 and Book 2 are such a huge success. We also catch up with The Jockey Club on how they are leading racing’s efforts to “go green”. In this issue we also take a behind the scenes look at life at Hunting Hill Stud. Set in the beautiful countryside of Fermoy, County Cork. Conor Quirke gives us a look at the excitement and challenge of developing a stud farm. At the time of writing, National Hunt trainers up and down the country are doubtless praying for rain as their top class winter prospects exercise away the excesses of summer. We take a look at some of the things we have to look forward to this coming winter. I hope you enjoy this issue of Course Specialist Magazine and that we have brought you entertainment and useful information during 2019. Thank you as always to our advertisers and everyone who has taken the time to be featured during the year, your support makes our production possible. We will look forward to seeing you all in the New Year! With thanks and best wishes,

EDITOR & PUBLISHER Andrew Pelis PHOTOGRAPHERS Steven Cargill Mark Cranham www.cranhamphoto.com A.J. Byles John James Clark Megan Rose Photography PRODUCTION Jon Mullender www.jonmullender.com ON THE COVER Enable beats Crystal Ocean in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes © www.cranhamphoto.com

WE’RE SOCIAL  /course-specialist  @CourseSpecial Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this magazine, no legal responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising from use of information published. No part of the publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrievable system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Andrew Pelis Editor and Publisher

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October 2019

FEATURE ENABLE

ENABLE RULES SUPREME ONCE AGAIN AT THE HEIGHT OF THE ENGLISH SUMMER

he 2019 Flat Season has once again been dominated by one equine star as Enable added further glory to her list of big race triumphs. There was delight when it was announced that Prince Khalid Abdullah’s dual Arc heroine would be staying in training at the age of five, with trainer John Gosden adopting a patient approach in the spring. The daughter of Nathaniel missed the Coronation Cup and Royal Ascot and eventually reappeared in the Coral Eclipse Stakes at Sandown Park. It was worth the wait.

ENABLE RETURNS WITH AN IMPERIOUS VICTORY IN THE ECLIPSE STAKES

Enable returned from a lengthy lay-off to dominate with a brilliant success in the Group One Coral Eclipse Stakes at Sandown Park. Eight horses lined-up for the first major all-age 1 ¼ mile race of the summer. Beforehand, all eyes were on dual Arc winner Enable, making her seasonal return. As this much-anticipated race got underway, the early pace came from Hunting Horn, with Enable racing keenly to the outside and Magical.

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October 2019

ENABLE FEATURE terms with her rival – and Frankie Dettori powered up the Esher Hill with the superstar Nathaniel filly, who emulated her sire by winning on her return to action. This was a tenth successive win and an eighth Group One for Enable, who was not hard pressed to beat Magical by a length. Regal Reality ran the race of his life to finish third, ahead of Danceteria. Afterwards, winning trainer John Gosden said: “It’s been a long preparation and she’s only started coming to herself in the past three weeks. “Quite frankly she’s come here at only 85%. “She’s an exceptional athlete. “Like her father, to come from an eight-month lay-off is not an easy thing. She has done it all herself.” Asked if the King George was next, Gosden confirmed “That’s the plan, yes.”

Settling down, Hunting Horn led by a couple of lengths from Enable, with Magical a further length back and then telecaster and Zabeel Prince, with Mustashry leading his stable mate Regal Reality and then Danceteria. Hunting Horn took the field out of the back straight and turned for home with Enable within a length and then 1 ½ lengths to Magical. Enable cruised alongside the leader and in behind Zabeel Prince closed. Enable went on with a furlong to race, with Magical giving chase and then Regal Reality staying on. But Enable was supreme and Magical could never get on

Dettori said “Today was 8 ½ there is plenty more to come. “She is the Queen of Racing! She is amazing! She is special! “When she comes racing the lights, come on and she is the best. “What she has achieved is really unbelievable.” That haul includes an Oaks, Irish Oaks, King George, Yorkshire Oaks, two Arcs, Breeders’ Cup and now an Eclipse Stakes. Who is the greatest remains a subjective argument. What is beyond question is that Enable’s list of victories marks her down as an all-time great. Next up for Enable was a bid to win a second King George at Ascot. A formidable field assembled on the final Saturday in July, including the Derby winner Anthony Van Dyck, the Prince of Wales’s Stakes winner Crystal Ocean, Japan Cup winner Grand Cheval, Coronation Cup winner Defoe and Prix Ganay winner Waldgeist. What ensued was one of the great head to head races up the Ascot straight, one that toyed with the emotions.

ENABLE WINS AN ENTHRALLING BATTLE FOR THE KING GEORGE

Enable won a pulsating renewal of the Group One Qipco King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot. Eleven went to post for a mouth-watering edition of this mid-summer classic race, over 1 ½ miles. From the break it was Magic Wand who went on with Norway, while Enable raced wide and Anthony Van Dyck

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October 2019

FEATURE ENABLE held a nice position behind the leader. Norway asserted and moved two lengths clear of Magic Wand, with Hunting Horn making it a Ballydoyle first three, while Anthony Van Dyck matched strides with Crystal Ocean. Norway turned for home in a clear lead from Magic Wand and Hunting Horn, while Crystal Ocean and James Doyle edged closer. Early in the home straight, Frankie Dettori brought Enable to the wide outside and she quickly and smoothly moved up towards the head of the race. At the same time, James Doyle had made his move on Crystal Ocean - and the two horses soon went clear, with the race to themselves. Crystal Ocean was in familiar territory, having been involved in a two-horse scrap for the same prize a year ago. He came off second best that time and for a fleeting moment looked destined for second again, as Enable threatened to draw clear. However, Crystal Ocean gamely fought back against the far rail and drew almost level with the filly. But in the final analysis, when it came down to those final yards of adrenaline known as the championship rounds, it was Enable who found more for her evergreen jockey. Enable tenaciously stuck her head out and passed the post a narrow winner after perhaps the finest battle down the Ascot straight, since the course’s new stands were introduced in 2005. Crystal Ocean lost nothing in defeat, runner-up for the second successive year. A couple of lengths behind these two came Waldgeist, who kept on tenaciously but could never land a telling blow on these horses. The John Gosden trained Enable has now added a second King George to her two Prix de l’Arc de Triomphes, an Investec Oaks, a Yorkshire Oaks, a Breeders’ Cup Turf and an Eclipse Stakes. The daughter of Nathaniel continues to win, twelve straight, delivering occasions to remember every time she steps onto a racetrack. Gosden said “She’s everything you ever want. The draw rather affected her, she was suddenly very wide, so Frankie dropped back further than he wanted. “She’s a brave and wonderful filly, and what a great battle with Crystal Ocean. “It’s what you wanted to see. “I think she possibly carried him (Dettori) into the race a little too easily, and I thought he’d hit the front a long way out,

but he felt he had to go then. “Crystal Ocean showed all the courage in the world, and the first two are wonderful - they put up a great King George. “Frankie was slightly hands and heels and waving it (whip) at her, he didn’t really throw everything at her at all. He just felt he wanted her to do it slightly within herself. “It was a great race, it’s what it’s all about.” The Newmarket trainer added “We’ll let her come along in the next days and make a decision where we go with her. She is slightly pencilled in to go to York, she’s in the Yorkshire Oaks and the Juddmonte International. “That’s still a nice six weeks off the Arc.” Dettori said “I’m carrying the pressure of the nation. She is unbeaten for two years. “Not only is she a super mare, she showed what a courageous will to win she has. I don’t want too many races

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October 2019

ENABLE FEATURE

like that, as I’m absolutely exhausted. “In all my career it is probably the hardest and most hardfought race I’ve ever had. It was two great champions. Give credit to Crystal Ocean, he put it out there for me and it was an amazing race. “From the outset I knew Crystal Ocean was the one to beat, as he is very strong here. Boudot (Pierre-Charles, on Waldgeist) had the spot I wanted, so I had to make a three-wide move round the turn and James was sitting quite good. “I jumped on him and just put my head in front and I thought I would see it out, but in fairness he served it up to me and we had a really titanic battle, and I was always having the edge, like in the Breeders’ Cup with Magical. “We are on the road to Longchamp now.” Sir Michael Stoute reflected on Crystal Ocean’s valiant

effort “He made it an entertaining day for the crowd. He doesn’t know how to give in. He is just so brave and gives everything. “I can’t remember if it was at the half-furlong pole that I thought, ‘will I (win)?’ - I never got too excited about it, but I thought, ‘will he, because he doesn’t want to give in’. “He ran a great race.” Doyle said “I’ve never experienced finishing second in a race and getting as loud a cheer as the winner. They really do love him and he wears his heart on his sleeve. What a run. It was a great race, it was unbelievable. “She joined me and it felt like I headed her back - well I thought I did - and I thought we could be in business, but s he just digs into the reserves and away she goes. “Credit to my fellow, he left every inch of his heart out on the track there.”

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October 2019

FEATURE ENABLE

THE QUEEN OF YORK AGAIN

The brilliant Enable kept up her remarkable run of victories with another imperious display to land the Group One Darley Yorkshire Oaks at York. The superstar mare, on probably her last start on home soil, led from the start and asserted early in the long home straight. Magical and stable mate Lah Ti Dar, flanked Enable with just over a couple of furlongs to go, but the long-time leader lengthened away comfortably. Enable romped home 2 ¾ lengths clear of old rival Magical, setting her up for a crack at an unprecedented third victory in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. The John Gosden-trained five year old was making it 13 wins from her 14 career starts to date, in which time she has amassed over £9.5 million in prize money. Ridden, as always, by Frankie Dettori, Enable was winning her second Yorkshire Oaks. The jockey said “I’m really tearful because this is the last day she will be running in England – it’s special. I’m emotional because she’s so good. She’s amazing and the turnout is fantastic.” Trainer John Gosden said “It was a gorgeous performance and there was no point of taking her back as she’s quick from the gates. He [Dettori] said she really quickened the last two furlongs, she really turned it on.

“She likes her training and she likes her racing. I’m glad we have brought her here, it was a lovely prep [for the Arc] and we couldn’t be more pleased with her. “She has this amazing, competitive mind – if you were married to her you would have to listen. She is a great filly, great constitution and we started life out at Newcastle and she’s done nothing but pleased. I’ve seen some wonderful racemares in my time and she’s one of those.” Gosden added “She had a battle in the King George, Frankie wasn’t hard on her though, and today she showed her class against the fillies. Now you’ve got a big old mountain to © www.cranhamphoto.com climb in the Arc. “If she goes back to her three-year-old form, as you saw today, she is mighty tough to beat. But watch out for the three-year-olds as they’re getting the weight.” At the time of writing, Enable is being trained for a bid to become the first horse to win the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe on three occasions. The world will be watching.

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ENABLE’S ROLL OF HONOUR

2017 Group Three Cheshire Oaks 2017 Group One Investec Oaks 2017 Group One Darley Irish Oaks 2017 Group One Qipco King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes 2017 Group One Darley Yorkshire Oaks 2017 Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe 2018 Group Three September Stakes 2018 Group One Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe 2018 Grade One Breeders’ Cup Turf 2019 Group One Coral Eclipse Stakes 2019 Group One Qipco King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes 2019 Group One Darley Yorkshire Oaks

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October 2019

AS OF 19-9-19

Shamardal has sired 139 Stakes winners. One more than Sadler’s Wells at the same age. He gets 12% Stakes

winners to runners – world class. And he has two top-notch juveniles in 2019 – unbeaten G1 winners Earthlight and Pinatubo, at Timeform 134p, the highest-rated juvenile this century. Shamardal, in other words, is not just one of the best. He’s one of the best ever. Which makes the retirement of his fastest and highest-rated son truly momentous. Standing alongside Shamardal at Kildangan Stud next season will be the only horse ever to win three Royal Ascot G1 sprints: He’s also Ascot’s six-furlong record-breaker and, in a golden age of sprinters, one of the most dazzling. Point made.

BluePoint.

Darley

REVIEW NEWMARKET JULY FESTIVAL

2019 NEWMARKET JULY FESTIVAL REVIEW Day One

ROYAL LYTHAM ON THE RIGHT COURSE IN THE JULY STAKES

A SECOND NEWMARKET GROUP TWO SUCCESS FOR COMMUNIQUE

The Aidan O’Brien trained Royal Lytham had to overcome interference as he got up narrowly to land the Group Two Tattersalls July Stakes at Newmarket. Eight went to post for this six furlong race. Visinari and Frankie Dettori came through to lead meeting the rising ground, but Platinum Star came to head him. The pair began to drift over to the far rail and all the time, Wayne Lordan and Royal Lytham were making ground. VIsinari slightly impeded the latter and carried over to the far rail, but in a tight finish, Royal Lythem just got up from Platinum Star.

Communique added to his Jockey Club Stakes victory with a second Group Two success at Headquarters, in the Princess Of Wales’s Tattersalls Stakes at Newmarket. A field of six contested a fascinating renewal of this 1 ½ mile contest, including last year’s Derby winner Masar, dual Royal Ascot winner Baghdad and Queen’s Vase winning three year-old Dashing Willoughby. It was the only three year-old in the field who took them along, looking to take advantage of his weight allowance and proven stamina. Dashing Willoughby led into the home straight, with Communique never far away and Masar also prominent.

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NEWMARKET JULY FESTIVAL REVIEW

However, as the pace intensified, Masar and Baghdad dropped away and Mirage Dancer and Communique took prominence. Mirage Dancer looked a danger, but Communique answered all of Silvestre De Sousa’s urgings to draw clear inside the final furlong. Communique ran out a comfortable winner at the line, with Mirage Dancer second and Desert Encounter running on well in third. Winning trainer Mark Johnston said “Today was was absolutely perfect. It was a small field, everything has gone right for him and that counts for a lot. “I thought it would be a tall order to beat Masar but he doesn’t appear to have run up to his best. “I have never been disappointed with him in any race he has run in, he’s won two Group 2’s now and although he’s been beaten when he’s tried Group 1 company, I am still hopeful one can come his way. “I doubt he will be supplemented for King George, he’s got a couple of Group 1 entries in Germany and that is most likely the route he will take before coming back for another crack at a top prize here.” Sir Michael Stoute will head to Goodwood in a bid to land the Glorious Stakes with Mirage Dancer for a second year in succession, after the five-yearold finished a game runner-up to Communique. Mirage Dancer finished runner-up in this Group 2 event last season and the Newmarket

handler is keen to follow a similar path this time, after Ryan Moore’s mount was beaten a length and three-quarters. Stoute said “He is a model of consistency, this fella. He always runs big races. I don’t think he will get any further. He was always second best and I think we all knew that. “I think we will go back to Goodwood. He won that race there last year and we will go back there.” David Simcock is also plotting a similar campaign to last season for third home Desert Encounter, who was a further half-length back in third under Harry Bentley. Simcock said “His time is August, September and October, which we all know anyway. The ground was no problem. There are no excuses about the ground for him, ever. He ran well, ran strong. “You’d love to go down the same route as we did last year. What I really want to do is go to Newbury next week, then that whole Windsor, Newbury, Canada scenario. He’s still got it in the tank. The Grade 1 Canadian International, which he won last year, is the ultimate plan. “I don’t want to go to Windsor next week, but it will be there, because that was the race that was set for him. He’s lost his Group 1 penalty now, so life is a little easier for him.” The race revolved around the 2018 Derby winner Masar, who was having just a second start back following a lengthy lay-off after injury.

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October 2019

REVIEW NEWMARKET JULY FESTIVAL However, the Godolphin-owned colt was keen early on and having accepted his fate, his jockey, James Doyle, eased him down in the closing stages and he finished last. His trainer, Charlie Appleby, admitted “ I ’ m disappointed. James [Doyle] said he was far too keen for the first half mile he was over-racing again. There was no pace in the race and we thought there might be a bit more than there was, but it did not materialise. “The question we need to ask is whether we keep him in training or not? That’s a question for His Highness Sheikh Mohammed as to whether he would like to have another crack or not. To be honest with you, I’m going to sit on the fence. “He is a horse that has pulled up sound and he has shown us, during the course of the week coming into this, just how well he is. We’ll just have to try and get him back on track. “If there is anything for him, and while it may come too soon, the York Stakes would have been a nice race for him, dropping him back to a mile and a quarter. It may come too quick. I don’t know, is the answer. I’ll get back to you!”

Day Two

RAFFLE PRIZE GAINS REVENGE AT NEWMARKET Raffle Prize gained her revenge on Daahyeh as she ran out an impressive winner of the Group Two Duchess of Cambridge Stakes at Newmarket. This important two year-old fillies’ contest, over six furlongs, attracted a classy field of seven, headed by two Royal Ascot winners Daahyeh and Raffle Prize. Lambeth Walk set the running, with Raffle Prize and Frankie Dettori taking a prominent position. As the leader folded, with two furlongs to run, Raffle Prize went on, with Final Song beginning to unleash a challenge out wider. From behind horses, Daahyeh, who had beaten Raffle Prize on debut in a Newmarket maiden, was switched wide for her run. With the stands rail to keep her straight, Raffle

Prize poured it on in the final furlong, while Daahyeh was left to race on her own and never threatened to land a telling blow. At the line, Raffle Prize was a comfortable winner from her old foe, with Final Song taking third. Raffle Prize was continuing a magnificent Moet & Chandon July Festival for trainer Mark Johnston. The Queen Mary Stakes winner, who had to carry a 3lb penalty, needed to prove that she could be as effective over the extra furlong but, not only did she do that, she improved for it, and shaved off over a second from the track record in the process. Winning trainer Mark Johnston, who won the race with Attraction in 2003, said “I’m absolutely delighted. “We couldn’t be sure about stepping her up to six furlongs, that was a little bit of a question mark, and the second horse had beaten her before, first time out, and was talk of the town but our filly showed fantastic speed on debut and just got tired so she had every right to go on from that. “Frankie [Dettori] said that she has improved, that she is better over six furlongs and we now have the choice between the Lowther Stakes or the Prix Morny. “She’s won two Group 2s so I think we have to have a shot at a Group 1 next. “She’ll be taking on the colts in the Morny but fillies have a decent record in that contest. “I think she is very much the type to improve for

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NEWMARKET JULY FESTIVAL REVIEW

VERACIOUS LANDS A FIRST GROUP ONE IN THE FALMOUTH STAKES

going up to around a mile as a three-year-old. She doesn’t look anything like Attraction but they have a lot of similarities in temperament, she is quite a laid back filly. “We won five Group 1s with Attraction but I would settle for one with this filly right now.” Roger Varian is likely to give Daahyeh a step up in trip next time. David Egan’s mount could not quite reel in the winner and her trainer now feels she may need an extra furlong to show her best. Varian said “The tailwind suited the winner’s running style more and she could not quite get on terms. She has run three races now where she looks like she might get seven furlongs and that might be the way forward for her. There are no excuses as far as the ground goes, and she has run a nice race.” Saeed bin Suroor was similarly not about to make any excuses for Final Song, who finished out of the frame in third under Ryan Moore. The Godolphin handler admitted “She ran well and got beaten by two better fillies. The winner is a very good filly, while our filly is nice. “The fast ground meant she did not quite let herself down and good ground or good to soft would be easier for her. “I think we will keep her at six furlongs and we will see where we go – there are plenty of races for her. Maybe we will give her a little bit of a break before we go again.”

Veracious made all the running to win the Group One Tattersalls Falmouth Stakes at Newmarket. Six fillies and mares took part in this one mile event as threatening rain clouds finally burst open. From the break Veracious was sent to the front by Oisin Murphy, with Beshaayir for company. The two moved a couple of lengths clear, with I Can Fly settled to the inside in third. But when push came to shove, Beshaayir came under pressure, while Veracious, next to the stands rail, kept up the gallop. One Master came out of the pack to challenge, while Qabala and I Can Fly were unable to quicken and the front pair drew clear. One Master had the leader in her sights, but Veracious had enough up her sleeve to go on and land her first Group One victory.

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October 2019

REVIEW NEWMARKET JULY FESTIVAL The victory was a record sixth in the race for trainer Sir Michael Stoute and another for Cheveley Park Stud, following on from the success of Integral in 2014. One Master ran a gallant race in defeat in second, with I Can Fly taking third place. Stoute said “She has taken a long time to really ripen and Ryan [Moore] rode her about a week ago and he said she was there now. “It was a very brave performance and Oisin rode her beautifully. “She ran very well at Ascot because we tried to switch her off but she was always doing a bit too much and we didn’t want that to happen today, so I told him to let her flow and relax. “We have a lot of choices with her, she is entered in everything, as her owners will shortly find out! “She is very versatile. I think she can go eight or ten furlongs. She could go for the Nassau Stakes but we don’t have to decide today.” James Doyle, rider of the runner-up, suggested that the ground may have been a little quick for the daughter of Fastnet Rock, admitting “She is so brave and I travelled into the race well, but she tightened up a bit when I got after her and she didn’t appear to let down on me.” Her trainer, William Haggas, added “ I t was a shame not to win. She is very game, but she doesn’t like fast ground. “As for plans, I don’t know. Her best trip is seven furlongs, but there are not any seven-furlong Group 1 races until the Prix de la Forêt (at Longchamp in early October), so I don’t know where she’ll run. We will work backwards from that.” Third home was the Ryan Moore-ridden I Can Fly, who had been third in the Duke of Cambridge Stakes at Royal Ascot last time out. She appeared to be undone by the lack of pace in the race, although her trainer, Aidan O’Brien, was adamant there were no excuses in defeat. He said “We are very happy with her. Very happy. It was a very good run. “There are no plans, but we will see how she is. Ryan [Moore] was very happy and said she ran a very good race – and that was it. “We are delighted with her, really. The ground was perfect. There are no excuses.”

Day Three MYSTERY POWER IMPRESSES IN THE SUPERLATIVE STAKES Mystery Power looked another smart Richard Hannon juvenile, as he ran out a convincing winner of the Group Two bet365 Superlative Stakes at Newmarket. A field of eight juveniles lined-up for this sevenfurlong contest. Mystery Power and Shared Belief broke well but King’s Command soon assumed front-running duties. With three furlongs to race, Mystery Power joined King’s Command and went on, while Juan Elcano and Maxi Boy closed to the stands side. But Mystery Power had the answers for Oisin Murphy and kept up the gallop well as Juan Elcano

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October 2019

NEWMARKET JULY FESTIVAL REVIEW emerged as the final challenger. However, he was just giving chase and Mystery Power kept on in authoritative style to win by about a length, with a gap back to Maxi Boy in third. Ropey Guest stayed on nicely in fourth. Assistant trainer Tony Gorman said “ That was expected, he’s a really nice horse. “He could go to Goodwood, possibly for the seven furlong race. He has a good constitution, he’s very laid back and fresh, he’s a proper two-year-old, so he’s not one we have to wrap up. “Oisin said he was very professional, but he always has been since he had his first run. He’s a proper little horse. “I guess a lot depends on what other two-yearolds King Power have, but we have always liked this fellow. Winning rider Oisin Murphy said “ H e ’s a super little horse, I was happy to get a tow off James [Doyle aboard King’s Command] and keep it simple.

“He’s tough and very professional so at this stage you would be very pleased.” Juan Elcano, who had scored on his debut in easy ground at Haydock, picked up well in the closing stages to finish second this time under Andrea Atzeni. The Frankel colt’s trainer, Kevin Ryan, said “It was very different ground than he encountered last time, but the (Good to Firm) ground here was no problem. “He ran a little green into the dip and probably just got a little unbalanced. Andrea [Atzeni] just had to wait for him to find his stride again and the winner had gone. “But he has picked up and finished his race really well. He is a lovely horse for the future. “There are no immediate plans. I will speak to Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum (owner) and then make a plan.” Frankie Dettori was a further three-and-aquarter lengths adrift in third aboard the Michael Bell-trained Maxi Boy. The Italian rider said “I would like to make a small suggestion - if you go to the Ascots and the Goodwoods, you will take on all the good horses in the world. I would suggest we go to France for a Group 3. It might be more beneficial for him. He tries, he is genuine.” Bell added “We could run him in France. He is definitely a Group performer. It is just a question of boxing clever. “So, where we go next, I’m not sure. It is always dangerous to make immediate plans, but funnily enough, I thought the Vintage Stakes at Goodwood would suit him, but we will see how he comes out of this. I’m very happy with his performance, though.”

VALE OF KENT LANDS THE BUNBURY CUP FOR TEAM JOHNSTON The traditional cavalry charge for the bet365 Bunbury Cup, produced a rip-roaring finish, with Vale Of Kent and Frankie Dettori winning at Newmarket. It was yet another winner for the highflying Mark Johnston team. course-specialist.co.uk

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REVIEW NEWMARKET JULY FESTIVAL

Seventeen went to post for this famous and valuable contest over seven furlongs. Vale Of Kent, racing to the far side, was soon in front, while Solar Gold and Admiralty led down the centre of the track and Alemaratalyoum led to the stands side. Racing to the furlong pole, Vale Of Kent still led from Solar Gold and Spanish City. Dettori kept the long-time leader up to his work to beat Solar Gold by ½ a length, with Admiralty third and then Spanish City.

TEN SOVEREIGNS STORMS TO VICTORY IN THE DARLEY JULY CUP Ten Sovereigns looked every bit a champion as he demolished a classy field in the Group One Darley July Cup at Newmarket. Twelve lined-up for one of the big six-furlong sprints of the season. From the gates, Ten Sovereigns was quickly into the lead, with Major Jumbo towards the stands side and Cape Byron, down the centre of the track, his closest pursuers. Pretty Pollyanne moved into contention to the far side, as they approach halfway and Advertise also travelled smoothly, while to the stands rail, Glorious Journey, racing on his own, was also showing good speed. With three furlongs to race, Ten Sovereigns looked in trouble, as Pretty Pollyanna took him on for the lead, while Glorious Journey was joined by Major Jumbo and this pair looked a big threat. But in the final furlong, Ryan Moore and Ten Sovereigns accelerated again, with the colt showing a good turn of foot.

They went clear of their rivals, with Advertise 2 ¾ lengths back, gaining ample compensation for defeat in the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot. O’Brien also saddled the third home in Fairyland, who stayed on strongly late on, with Pretty Pollyanna fourth. The success gave trainer Aidan O’Brien and the Coolmore team a fifth success in the July Cup and a second successive victory. It was the third consecutive win for a three year old and marked the return to prominence of the Middle Park Stakes. Ten Sovereigns was the second successive winner of the Middle Park Stakes to go on to July Cup glory as a three year-old, following in the footsteps of former stable mate U S Navy Flag. The Middle Park Stakes looks to have become a bona fide race for future champions once again, having been returned to its earlier slot in the racing calendar, so as not to clash with the Dewhurst Stakes. O’Brien explained “It took him a little bit of time to come out of Newmarket and he was only just ready to go to Ascot, where he ran a really good race, finishing well. “We knew he was very good but we tried to stretch him out for a Guineas. He had a tough time in the Guineas, he’s a sprinter that was asked to run a mile, so it’s taken time to recover. “We were happy with him at Ascot but he looked like a horse that hadn’t clicked in mentally yet. However, his last few pieces of work told us that he was there. “The guys at home were all much happier with his homework coming here. “The times of his last few pieces of work have been unbelievable. In his last piece of work he broke 11 second every furlong for four furlongs, and for a horse to do that is something special.

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NEWMARKET JULY FESTIVAL REVIEW “He is a very good horse, he is uncomplicated and he gets six furlongs very well. “He’s nice and relaxed now, he goes a very high pace very easily and then he quickens when you ask him. “I don’t think dropping back to five furlongs would be any problem but it’s all about him now, he’s only a three-year-old so we’ll see how he comes out of it. “When he can do those times at home then he has to be something special. I think he was something like 2.5 seconds quicker over four furlongs than anything we have ever seen and that told us something different was going on. “It was vital for this horse, he’s by No Nay Never, and it was really important for him. “He has shown us now what he showed us all last year.” Winning jockey Ryan Moore said “ H e looked like a top class sprinter today and hopefully he can keep that going now.” Frankie Dettori has few big races missing on his CV, but the Darley July Cup is one of them, and the hunt for the elusive Group 1 will continue for the 48-year-old jockey after Advertise finished two and three-quarter lengths second to impressive Aidan O’Brien-trained Ten Sovereigns. After dismounting from the Martyn Meadetrained three-year-old, who landed the Group 1 Commonwealth Cup in easier ground at Royal Ascot last time, Dettori was trying his best to hide obvious disappointment, and quipped “I’m not quitting until I win one! It goes on.” Meade added “It was a bit of a muddling race,

but the winner ran really well, what can you do? It was just a shame that we held him so well at Ascot. “The ground was different today and he just didn’t quicken out of it as one would have hoped he would have done. “The whole thing was just a bit muddling for him and if we could run it again it might be a different result. But we can’t, so that’s it. There is no disgrace. “I think we can maybe look at the Prix Maurice de Gheest (at Deauville on August 4th) and the Prix de la Forêt (at Longchamp in early October) over seven furlongs. I don’t want to over-do him. “He has certainly come back from his QIPCO 2,000 Guineas form (when 15th of 19 to Magna Grecia) and if he had run a stinker after that, it would not have been so much fun. “But second is disappointing. You only get those odd chances to win a Darley July Cup and he (Aidan O’Brien) could share it out a bit, couldn’t he? “It is no disgrace. He’s won two Group 1s and come second in a July Cup. What shall we do? Blame it on the ground? “He has come back safe and sound, so from that point of view, we have to be happy.” O’Brien also saddled the third home in Fairyland, who was a further three-quarters of a length down. He said “Fairyland ran a super race and her owner, Mr. Stockwell, always thought she was a six-furlong filly, and I think she will come on for that.” Michael Bell, trainer of the fourth home, Pretty Pollyana, bemoaned the start of the 6f contest when she was on her heels and a beat too slowly into stride under Oisin Murphy. Bell said “It was a bit unfortunate at the start, because she just fluffed her lines and Oisin [Murphy] said the one in the next stall to her was getting a bit unsettled and at the vital time, just as the gates opened, she was just rocked back. “That doesn’t make life easy making up the ground against high-class horses, but she has still come out of the race with great credit. She is so easy to train and so uncomplicated. “I don’t know where we will go next, but she is in the Prix Maurice de Gheest.”

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REVIEW QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL

Image supplied by Goodwood Racecourse

Qatar Goodwood Festival REVIEW

STRADIVARIUS RULES AT GOODWOOD ONCE AGAIN Stradivarius emulated Double Trigger (1995, 1997 & 1998) by recording a third victory in the Qatar Goodwood Cup. Ridden by Frankie Dettori and trained by John Gosden, the superstar stayer extended his unbeaten sequence to eight wins with a vintage display in the two-mile contest. Wells Farhh Go made an audacious bid to make it wall and raced 20 lengths clear of Dashing Willoughby at one stage. However, his lead was reduced to five lengths racing to the home turn and he faded at the two

furlong pole, as the race began in earnest. Cross Counter and Dee Ex Bee pressed on, but Stradivarius and Dettori made ground down the outside. The five-year-old travelled powerfully into contention in the home straight and displayed his customary turn of foot to win eased down by a neck from the Mark Johnston-trained Dee Ex Bee in second. Stradivarius’ illustrious win record now features three Qatar Goodwood Cups, two Gold Cups, two Yorkshire Cups, and a Lonsdale Cup. He will win the Weatherbys Hamilton Stayers’ Million Bonus for the second year running if he lands the Lonsdale Cup at York’s Ebor meeting next month.

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QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL REVIEW Discussing the stayer after the race, Newmarket trainer Gosden said: “Stradivarius is a gorgeous horse. He followed Cross Counter and that is proper horse. Frankie followed the right horse, pounced at the right time, timed it beautifully and then overdid the waving at the crowd. “I was not comfortable where he was early on in the race, but from halfway I was happy with his position. We discussed what we thought would happen in the race and then you leave Frankie alone to decide during the race. “Stradivarius has won his race and then our great hero started waving to the crowd. I must say that is a little dangerous because Stradivarius is a pro and when you say ‘well that’s enough’, he says ‘OK, I’ll put the brakes on’ and it was lucky Frankie didn’t go over the handle bars I thought! “It is great to emulate Double Trigger who was a great horse of Mark Johnston’s. Stradivarius is a little street fighter and he just puts it in when he has to. That is the great thing about this horse. “He was in the yard roaring like a bull at 5.15am this morning telling everyone that he was ready. We were all thrilled with that and he is just a real pro. “He is a very unique horse. They are not meant to have four white socks and a white face and be on the neat side. I would never call him small, he’s neat. “Stradivarius knows how to win. We never overwork him at home and always let him do what he enjoys doing. He is just a grand horse and it is wonderful to have a horse like him win three Goodwood Cups. “Bjorn Nielsen bred him, owns him, and I think to him that is profoundly fulfilling to him to have bred the horse. “We are lucky to have horse like this in the stable. We have fantastic staff, whether it be assistants, riders, yard people, head people. “It is still good ground. The rain has come, but it has been blasted through and is not sitting over us. He probably would have won in good to soft, but that is not his favourite. He can quicken and a horse that can quicken wants top of the ground - that is the great weapon they have. If you take that away, then you have blunted them.” Dettori laughed when he said: “It’s not good for the heart - after winning the King George on

Saturday [on Enable] and now this on the two most popular and precious horses in training, and with the following of people they both have. “I had the perfect race, and followed the one I thought would be the biggest threat [Cross Counter]. He took me into the race, and it was great to be behind him, otherwise I would have had to make my move earlier. As always, my horse showed he is a stayer with a turn of foot. He passed the others very easily, but when he got to the front and had the race won I probably celebrated a stride too early. Everyone is panicking, but I’ve been here before and know where the winning post is. “He’s an amazing horse who wastes very little energy, is mentally tough and is never going to be flash and win by ten lengths, but he gets the job done. All I have to do is put him in the race and he does the rest. He’s a perfect partner. “It’s important for the public to have a horse who stays in training for so long and keeps delivering and with Stradivarius you know what you are going to get - a fight. Which is why people love him. “It’s nerve-wracking and exciting, but I work for a great trainer in John Gosden, who puts it on a plate for me. He and the staff should have all the credit.” “Ever the bridesmade, never the bride”, a phrase that trainer Mark Johnston must know well after Dee Ex Bee came home a neck second to Stradivarius, who was completing an historic hat trick of victories in the Qatar Goodwood Cup, the feature race on the opening day of the Qatar Goodwood Festival, 2019. Johnston commented: “We were a bit closer to Stradivarius this time, partly because Frankie [Dettori] dropped his hands, but we were a margin closer anyway, even before he dropped his hands. “Dee Ex Bee sticks on so well, there is no doubt that today was great. Wells Farhh Go did nothing for us, he was too far in front, but the other horse [third-placed Cross Counter] worked well for us. But then there is that little bit where he hits the front and he definitely idles a little bit. It doesn’t have to be much at this level to give it away. “The Prix du Cadran and the Doncaster Cup are probably the next ones for him. That is not shirking Stradivarius, but the chances are he won’t meet Stradivarius in those.

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REVIEW QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL “Whether he stays in training next year will be up to the owners. I think it would be surprising if he didn’t stay in training next year.” Asked about Stradivarius matching Double Trigger’s record of three wins in the Qatar Goodwood Cup Johnston replied: “I wish he hadn’t! But all credit to him, he has done it in style. Stradivarius can thank Dee Ex Bee and Cross Counter - people won’t say he has done the treble in a weak division. You can’t take it away from the winner, these are good Goodwood Cups.” Jockey Silvestre de Sousa added: “He ran well. We got beaten by the horse we thought might beat us. We got a bit closer this time.” Cross Counter, ridden by James Doyle, hit the front in the 2019 Qatar Goodwood Cup with over a furlong to race, but could not hold Stradivarius and Dee Ex Bee who both beat him in last month’s Gold Cup at Royal Ascot. He was beaten a neck and a length and three quarters, but Godolphin trainer Charlie Appleby was pleased with Cross Counter’s performance. Appleby commented: “I am pleased because, at the end of the day, when you go out there and try and beat Stradivarius you know you are punching high. “Cross Counter has gone and run a very creditable race - when he travelled into contention from the three-furlong marker to the two, I thought we were in the right position to be able to serve it up to Stradivarius, but he is just too good. “Someone standing next me said he wished the race was a furlong further - I replied that we tried four furlongs further at Ascot and we still couldn’t beat Stradivarius, who is a supreme champion. It was a great race to watch and great for racing.” Cross Counter won the Melbourne Cup for Godolphin at Flemington in November and will now attempt to carry off the race that stops Australia again. The trainer said: “We always had it in the back of our minds that we could hopefully go back to the Melbourne Cup with him, and that is still firmly there. “We will see how Cross Counter comes out of this race and we might take in the Irish St Leger (the Curragh, September 15th) before returning to Melbourne.

“You won’t see these class of stayers all over the world, so for Cross Counter to be mixing it with Stradivarius and Dee Ex Bee shows that he still holds his ability and his enthusiasm. “He has strengthened this year. He was a well-handicapped horse when winning last year’s Melbourne Cup.” Doyle added: “Cross Counter has run a good race again. He stays well, but Stradivarius is too good, while Dee Ex Bee is a fair horse as well. The right three horses finished in the top three.”

PINATUBO IMPERIOUS IN THE VINTAGE STAKES Pinatubo further enhanced his sky-high reputation as he ran away with the Group Two Qatar Vintage Stakes at Goodwood. From the gates it was VIsinari who led to the rails, with Milltown Star and Platinum Star, who raced wide. Visinari and Frankie Dettori took the field along from Milltown Star, with Mystery Power moving third and then Pinatubo. Straightening for home, it was still VIsinari, but Pinatubo cruised alongside easily and when James Doyle asked him to quicken, he lengthed away. The final furlong turned into a procession and Pinatubo won by five lengths from Positive with a spectacular performance. Lope Y Fernandez took a remote third. Bred by Sheikh Mohammed’s Godolphin operation, and trained for it by Charlie Appleby, Pinatubo was following-up his victory in Royal Ascot’s Listed Chesham Stakes. After the post-race debrief from winning jockey James Doyle, Appleby said: “You can see from watching him walk around that he’s a laid-back character. He’s like an old horse “I said to Giuseppe, who rides him every day, ‘Will he be alright on this ground?’ and he said ‘No problem’. You really can’t get excited watching him on the gallops in the mornings, but it’s what he does in the afternoons on the racecourse that is so special. “As James said, “I just wheeled him out there [to take up the running], and when I did he came

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QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL REVIEW sharply back on the bridle and just wanted to go forward, so I let him”. We’ve seen acceleration on his three most recent starts - when you think of what he did at Epsom, when a horse got loose on the front end and was always going to come back, but he showed great acceleration that day and again at Royal Ascot. “Going forward I’ll speak to His Highness, Sheikh Mohammed, about plans, and we thought we might have been a bit bold coming here, but the National Stakes is probably a likely target, and from what we’ve seen today that should be okay. “He’s a horse who takes his racing so well, so I wouldn’t want to put a bar to say that after the National we’d pull up, or that we might run him again in the Dewhurst Stakes. We’ll take one step at a time, but after retiring Blue Point I’ve been looking for another good one, and may have found him. “On the dam’s side there’s plenty of stamina she’s a Dalakhani mare - and one thing I said to James today was ‘Keep it simple, let’s not be clever and think we’ve got gears, and just let him roll along’. Box-seat him was the plan, and if they drop away let him go on, because I’m sure this horse will get a mile. He’s got a good head, he relaxes and gets into a lovely rhythm.”

Pinatubo is a good-looking horse and well put together, but he’s not the biggest. Appleby said: “I’d rather have a good little’un than a big bad’un. Seriously, there will be some class horses out there who haven’t been seen on the racecourse yet backward, scopier types - but he has good shoulders on him and a big back end. I see no reason why he shouldn’t be a three-year-old.” The two-year-old, who is trained by Charlie Appleby, travelled sweetly throughout the sevenfurlong contest and extended his unbeaten sequence to four victories with a blistering turn of foot in the home straight. The son of 2004 Qatar Vintage Stakes scorer Shamardal, Pintaubo readily came clear to score five lengths from the Clive Cox-trained Positive in second. James Doyle, who has ridden Pinatubo to success on all four of his career starts, said: “That was a pretty spectacular performance from Pinatubo. “We did not go all that quick and he surprised me with how well he got into a rhythm and settled. “Pinatubo is just a wonderful horse with a great nature. He is very quick. When you ask him to go and stretch, he really drops down and accelerates he really showed that today.

Image supplied by Goodwood Racecourse

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REVIEW QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL “We were just interested to see today how Pinatubo coped with a small bit of ease in the ground and he did it very nicely. He really let down well, Charlie has brought him along nicely. Hopefully he can go on to bigger and better things and I’m sure he will.” Discussing the prospect of stepping up to a mile, Doyle continued: “He is vey fast, but he galloped all the way to the line today. Trip-wise, I’m sure he would see out a mile no problem. These top horses need a turn of foot and even if they are going up to a mile, they still need to be able to accelerate and he has that turn of pace that a good horse should possess. “Pinatubo is not overly tall, but he has a bit of scope and range about him. I think he is a top-level horse. He started life off at Wolverhampton, but he even got us excited that day. “He never really shows that much at home, but when he gets to the track, he brings his A game. He is a horse to be excited about and all of the top races towards the end of the season will be on his radar I imagine. “You dream to ride horses like this and he is pretty special all right.” Lambourn trainer Clive Cox was upbeat about the run of Positive run, despite the Dutch Art colt coming home five-lengths adrift of Pinatubo. Cox commented: “It is the start of his journey, we have not hurried him at all. It is a huge step up from Salisbury to here, and he has confirmed our hopes that he had progressed from that run. “He is a horse that we are excited for the future. “Where next? We will see how he comes back first. I don’t think we are in any hurry. He is a horse that we would be very keen on the Dewhurst for, but it will all depend on how he comes back from here.” Jockey Adam Kirby, added: “Obviously I am gutted to have bumped into one. I think the winner is a freak. “I think my horse ran a great race, and he is only going to get better with time, I am absolutely delighted with him.” Ryan Moore, on board the third-placed Lope Y Fernandez, a half-brother to last year’s winner, Dark Vision, said: “He ran a good race.”

SIR DANCEALOT WALTZES BACK TO FORM IN THE LENNOX STAKES Sir Dancealot came back to his best form to win the Group Two Qatar Lennox Stakes for the second successive year, emulating Nayir for good measure. Nine ran in this seven-furlong contest and it was Hey Gaman who strode on with Donjuan Triumphant. Donjuan Triumphant pulled very hard and pulled his way into a three length lead, fighting for his head as he cornered. The leader was two-lengths up into the home straight, with Hey Gaman getting a nice lead and Flaming Spear closing. Further back, Gerald Mosse switch Sir Dancealot from the inside and in the final furlong, he swept through into the lead. At the line, Sir Dancealot was a comfortable winner from Hey Gaman, with Suedois third. Newmarket trainer David Elsworth said: “It is lovely to win this race again with Sir Dancealot. He was pretty good today. He took up a furlong out and didn’t look like getting caught. “Sir Dancealot has contested all the six and seven furlongs races over the last couple of years. He won the Rockingham as a two-year-old and has always been a very good horse. “The trainer has been a bit over ambitious and pushed him a little bit to reach his true heights. He won this race last year and then went on to win the Hungerford Stakes. He will probably go back to Newbury for the Hungerford Stakes again now.

Image supplied by Goffs

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QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL REVIEW “That is our first winner since April [Dandhu, Fred Darling Stakes, Newbury]. It has been a bit of a famine for everyone in the yard, but one or two horses have been running alright. “We haven’t lost our nerve and it is great for these owners to have another big winner. We are all cock-a-hoop and we are going to get pissed. “It is a well-worn cliché that you say “it is down to the staff and everything,” but it really is. It is full credit to them because they have been fantastic. We only win Group races anyway!” Mosse also rode the five-year-old in the 2018 renewal of the Group Two event and he was delighted to record another big-race success on Sir Dancealot. He said: “When you have a horse as good as Sir Dancealot, it makes your ride look much easier and better. “I had the best horse in the race and the trainer told me to ride him how I feel. He did not want to give me instructions from an inside draw. “They went a good gallop and I took my time. Last year’s race was a little more complicated, but today I wanted to give him more room and in three strides he went by them. He was playing with them.” Tate was pleased with Hey Gaman, saying: “Everything seemed to go well except that we were second. “I thought he got a clean run at it. We let the leader go, but he seemed to be in a good rhythm through the race he just got beat by a very good horse who is particularly good at Goodwood. “We will keep campaigning him at this level, the obvious targets are the Hungerford, the Prix de la Foret and the Park Stakes. “We definitely want to go for the Foret Longchamp is his favourite track. He is a smashing horse. “After that he may well get a little stud job or we will keep him in training.” Adam Kirby, rider of the third, Suedois, said: “The pace was strong and he settled nicely. He took me into the race well. “I thought the race was going to open up a little bit more than it did, unfortunately that backfired and I had to switch him which probably cost us a clear cut second.”

LIBERTY BEACH LANDS THE MOLECOMB STAKES The John Quinn-trained Liberty Beach recorded her fourth win from five starts with a smart success in the Group Three Markel Insurance Molecomb Stakes. Thirteen juveniles took part in this five-furlong dash.and from the break it was Wheels On Fire who led with Dr Simpson. Cool Sphere pressed on with two furlongs to run, with American runner Maven in touch. With a furlong to run the picture changed and Wheels On Fire went on with Fan Club Rules and Raahey. But Liberty Beach and Jason Hart burst through late on and went clear quickly to win by a length from the Joseph O’Brien-trained Alligator Alley in second. Show Me Show Me, who had been slow into stride, came home well for third. Quinn has high hopes for the filly who could tackle the Prix Morny or the Lowther Stakes on her next start. The Settrington handler was recording his second victory of the week from three runners at the Qatar Goodwood Festival following Cobra Eye’s win in yesterday’s European Breeders Fund EBF Maiden. Quinn said: “Liberty Beach did not get the best passage through the race as a few horses got in her way, but she showed once again a very special acceleration. She nearly ran her race to get to avoid all the trouble, but once Jason pulled her out and found the gap, off she went and he couldn’t pull her up. “It’s a very good sign that it took her a long time to pull her up. I put her in the Prix Morny this morning as I felt she was good enough to go for that race, but she had to prove it on the track this afternoon. “She is in the Lowther and the Prix Morny so we shall see - I like the Morny! She is a very highclass filly. “Liberty Beach did not have her first run until May 27th and then she ran three times quickly after that, including in the Queen Mary and at Sandown, so for a filly who had made her debut in May, I thought she needed a little break.

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REVIEW QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL

Image supplied by Goodwood Racecourse

“I’m delighted we didn’t run her in the Papin and gave her a break as we thought she would have an outstanding chance in this race and this is a great place to win. “The form of the Queen Mary in which she finished fourth is really good and all she has done since then is keep progressing. “I think we will also target the Prix de l’Abbaye and then the Breeders’ Cup. She has a lot of tactical speed and America could suit her - that is my plan. I have been training for a long time and if she is well in herself, you just need to keep kicking with these fillies and don’t worry too much about next year right now. “Liberty Beach is very laid-back and helps her rider. I wouldn’t be surprised if she was well able to cope with six furlongs which could even make her a Cheveley Park type.” Donnacha O’Brien, who partnered secondplaced Alligator Alley for his trainer brother Joseph, commented: “I would have won if I had a clear run.”

TOO DARN HOT MUCH TOO GOOD IN THE SUSSEX STAKES Too Darn Hot reaffirmed his position as a colt of the highest calibre, with victory in the Group One Qatar Sussex Stakes at Goodwood. Eight went to post for this historic one mile contest on the Sussex Downs. At the start it was Phoenix Of Spain who burst from the stalls and led from Circus Maximus and Zabeel Prince, who matched strides with Too Darn Hot. Phoenix Of Spain took the field to the turn into the home straight with a 1 ½ length lead. Circus Maximus joined the leader with two furlongs to run, while Zabeel Prince held Too Darn Hot in a pocket momentarily. However, as Circus Maximus set sail for home, Frankie Dettori moved off the rails and began to close on Too Darn Hot.

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QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL REVIEW The response was excellent and last year’s Champion Two Year-Old closed on his old rival and went on to win snugly by ½ a length, easing down. I Can Fly stayed on well for third, ahead of Happy Power. Winning trainer John Gosden said: “We knew Phoenix Of Spain and Circus Maximus would go forward, and they set an even pace. Frankie said after that it was a pity they hadn’t taken down the auxiliary rail [in the home straight] because he knew it would get tight [among the runners] and it did. At Goodwood it angles out and there’s an elbow, but I said ‘Just sit tight and if you don’t get out everyone will understand - don’t go committing three furlongs out’ and he didn’t but sat tight and when Andrea’s horse [Zabeel Prince] got tired the gap opened and we were away. “His best trip is probably seven furlongs - I’ve put him in sprints, and wouldn’t be afraid of running him in the Sprint on Champions Day at Ascot, but a nice flat mile suits. The Curragh mile was too stiff after we ran him back too soon after the Dante Stakes, and it was the same in the St James’s Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot, where the mile climbs a long way. It caught him out. His mother stayed a mile and a half, but he’s all speed. “He was a champion two-year-old, which proved he was speed. I’ve been so open that he missed the Greenham Stakes and 2000 Guineas, which I think he would have won, after he threw a splint in training, but we got it wrong running him in the Dante Stakes, which is not his trip. Then we rushed him back, and it was stupid and wrong. Fortunately, the horse has overcome both his manager and his trainer! It was interesting that they [Aidan O’Brien and his patrons] ran Circus Maximus over a mile and a half in the Derby, so we all makes mistakes! “The horse [Too Darn Hot] has come right now, and it’s a pity that Andrew and Madeleine [LloydWebber] are at a music festival in Salzburg, but it’s wonderful their horse is back, and he’s proved that being champion two-year-old was no fluke. “We’ll probably stick to the Mile now. We know there are lovely Group Ones ahead, such as the QEII and the Moulin, but to come and win the Sussex is wonderful. To me the great races are the Sussex, the Jacques Le Marois, and the QEII - the

all-aged Group Ones.” Dettori has ridden 11 Group One winners in 62 days and this was Too Darn Hot’s second Group One victory in succession following his success in the Prix Jean Prat at Deauville earlier this month. The 48-year-old rider said: “Too Darn Hot is very good. We had a smooth run to this race and his homework has been good, but my god he has so much speed - I can’t feel my arms at the moment! He is just blessed with so much natural speed. “He had a good run at this race today. He had been working well in the build-up to the race and we had him in the best shape we could have him. “It was great to reverse the form of Ascot and the race worked out how we wanted. They tried to stretch my stamina today, but I just had too many guns for them. “Too Darn Hot got the big one today that he really deserved. He has been unlucky for various reasons this year, but now he has showed his true colours and we are delighted. “He is a wonderful horse with a wonderful pedigree and deserved a proper Group One, which we all thought he had in him. I am so lucky that I work for Clarehaven [Stables]. We have an amazing team, it is a pleasurable place to work, and amazing horses trained by a genius of a trainer. “He has a lot of pace and a Breeders’ Cup Mile would be idea, with a fast two turns. I am sure that it could be the end of season target. “It’s not just Group Ones - to look at the list of Group Ones that I have won [this year], they are absolutely amazing, mammoth races. King Georges, Eclipses and Gold Cups - they are proper Group Ones. I have had an amazing summer and long may it continue. Mr Gosden is the genius - he puts it on the plate for me and I am doing the rest. “I was waiting for Too Darn Hot to come into the paddock and I said to John: “I will probably need a heart transplant by the end of the week!” He told me to shut up and that I loved it - maybe he is right. “This is probably the best year I’ve had. I cannot say enough thanks to John Gosden. He is an amazing trainer with an amazing team and long may it continue.” Trained by Ireland’s champion Flat trainer, Aidan O’Brien, Circus Maximus pleased his connections.

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REVIEW QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL

Image supplied by Goodwood Racecourse

O’Brien reflected “You would have to be very happy with that. We were delighted with the run today. “We know that he gets a mile and a quarter well, so we have that option, to go up in trip, or we can stay where we are. “The next one [meeting] to come is York, and we need to decide whether we go up to a mile and a quarter there. “There are a lot of things open to him because he is a relaxed horse. You wouldn’t believe how relaxed at home he is, he just takes everything in his stride.” Ryan Moore, rider of the Galileo colt, added: “He ran a super race, I think he has come forward since Ascot.” O’Brien also trained the third home, I Can Fly, who was another length and a quarter behind. O’Brien continued: “She has run a stormer. She is lovely. When the ground gets easier it will help her. “A mile, on easy ground, with a strong pace is what she loves. She is more of an autumn horse.” Jockey Donnacha O’Brien, said: “She ran well she got a nice trip.” Simon Marsh, manager of Watership Down Stud, owned by Lord and Lady Lloyd-Webber, which bred Too Darn Hot, said: “It is fantastic to see Too Darn Hot back to what we have always believed

he was and is. It is great.” John Gosden, Too Darn Hot’s trainer, added: “Frankie (Dettori) said his arms are aching (because Too Darn Hot was a bit keen). We managed Too Darn Hot very badly, myself and the manager, earlier in the year. He missed the Greenham and the 2,000 Guineas - and I think he would have won the Guineas, because he had a splint. Then we panicked and went to the Dante, entirely the wrong trip - an extended mile and a quarter. Then we panicked again and sent him nine days later over to Ireland to run him at a stiff mile (Irish 2,000 Guineas) and sustaining a little leg issue and consequently we did everything wrong for the colt. He then ran great at Royal Ascot, but if we had just been sensible about it, we probably would not have got ourselves in a mess. But, fortunately, he was a very high-class champion two-year-old and he has got both the trainer and the manager out of trouble. “I don’t think he will be remaining in training next year. When you have been champion two-yearold and have won two Group Ones this year, with hopefully more to come, I think he has done his job. It was rather the same with Kingman and Roaring Lion. Their commercial value becomes so great because of their speed and being champion twoyear-old, and that takes over. He has proved that he

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QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL REVIEW can overcome both trainer and manager. It would have been fair to doubt him, but we were running him over the wrong trip off what I call interrupted and incomplete preparations. Winning the Sussex is hugely important for the horse and gets a rather large monkey off our backs. “Frankie is exceptionally well and he rides with great confidence. He was saying to me there that it was too much responsibility and I said to him: “I tell you what is bad for you is to sit in that weighing room and not have a ride - you are a showman and you love being here”. After Enable’s race, Frankie went home exhausted and we all sat and had a TV dinner - it was very sad, but we were completely bottomed out emotionally, and he of course physically. He is not a kid anymore and, if we keep him going to the right meetings, we might get a few more years out of the old boy yet. If he hadn’t have won a Group One this year, he would be crying and kicking the waste paper basket, and the cat would be in trouble. “We still have got Stradivarius (3-time Qatar Goodwood Cup winner) - he is a remarkably lovely horse. He is so full of himself - he was quite a cheeky chappie this morning - he ate up his feed and started shouting - just playing. Let’s look forward to seeing him the rest of this year and next year. He is probably at his zenith now at five and is racing like a true professional - the teenage years have moved on and now he is a pretty mature horse.”

GOLDEN HORDE WINS THE RICHMOND STAKES Golden Horde showed great tenacity to hold off the sustained challenge of Threat and to win the Group Two Qatar Richmond Stakes at Goodwood. A field of thirteen went to post for this sixfurlong contest. From the stalls Guildsman reared up, losing ground. Misty Grey took the field along with Golden Horde and then Threat. With three furlongs to race, Golden Horde and Adam Kirby went on, but were challenged by Threat. Inside the furlong, the pair fought out a fine battle, with Golden Horde always just holding his

rival and winning by ¾ of a length, with a threelength gap back to Royal Dornoch in third. Golden Horde was a fine fifth in the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot back in June and the Lambourn handler was delighted with today’s victory. He said: “Golden Horde did it well today. Adam said he felt like his father [Lethal Force] throughout the race. He didn’t feel like he was going very fast. “Golden Horde is a joy to have. He is improving all the time. He has a bit of size and scope. “We bought him at the Doncaster Sales last year and we always knew he would keep improving throughout the season with his size. “Even in his work at home and just saddling him today, we’ve really got him where we want him. He has progressed with racing and it’s just great to have another top horse. “He is a different colour to Lethal Force but like him, he has a lot of ability! “He has a great mind which is great with any horse and it’s great to have a winner here. “Golden Horde is in the Gimcrack and the Morny. We’ll see how he comes out of the race and then see what he is telling us.” Winning rider Kirby remarked: “Golden Horde is improving. He was still very babyish at Ascot and he lugged across the track for some reason. Clive put a cross noseband on him today and that seemed to help him no end. “I am really pleased for him and obviously I am pleased for Lethal Force as well. It’s nice for him to get a nice winner on the board and hopefully this lad will do him proud. “I didn’t feel like I was going that quick on him. He is just like his dad in that respect where he has a high cruising speed and lengthens really well.” Hannon commented: “There are no excuses. He was coming to win but he didn’t win. The winner is obviously a very nice horse. He hit the gate all right and travelled right, he was in the right place at the right time, but he got beat. “Threat is a very good horse. I haven’t lost confidence in him or lessened my admiration of him, but I had hoped he would win there. “He is always going to be a better three-year-old, and I always hoped he was going to be a Guineas horse.”

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REVIEW QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL

DEIRDRE DELIVERS JAPANESE GLORY IN THE NASSAU STAKES Deirdre brightened a dark week for Japanese racing, as she won the Group One Qatar Nassau Stakes at Goodwood. Two days on from the sad news that superstar stallion Deep Impact had passed away, the five yearold mare gave Japanese racing fans something to really cheer about. Nine fillies and mares took part in this 1 ¼ mile race. As the race got underway, it was Hermosa and Mehdaayih who battled for pace-maker duties. Mehdaayih gained the day and led by ½ a length, with the front two a couple of lengths ahead of Sun Maiden and Nyaletti, with the Prix de Diane winner Channel next. Inside the three-furlong pole, Hermosa began to back-pedal, as Mehdaayih kept up the gallop. At the furlong pole, Mehdaayih was still three lengths to the good, but the petrol dramatically began to run out, as the Japanese mare Deirdre, began to close on the inside rail, under Oisin Murphy. Deirdre got up to win by 1 ¼ lengths from Mehdaayih, with a gap back to Rawdaa who came home third, with Sun Maiden next. Trained by Mitsuru Hashida and ridden by Oisin Murphy, the five-year-old daughter of Harbinger finished with a flourish. She finished sixth in the Prince Of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot in June with connections blaming the soft ground for her performance. They decided to remain in England, situated at Jane ChappleHyam’s Abington Place Stables in Newmarket with Deirdre coming to Goodwood Racecourse for an away day last month to gain experience of the course. Today’s victory was the second time Japan have won a top level contest in Britain following Agnes World’s win in the 2000 July Cup at Newmarket. The mare is owned by Mr Toji Morita, who owns a family business in Osaka, Japan. His Racing Manager Seiko Hashida Yoshimura, who is also the daughter of the winning trainer Mitsuru Hashida, was thrilled by Deirdre’s success. She said: “That was a special performance from

Deirdre. It is fantastic to have a winner at the Qatar Goodwood Festival. This is very important not only for us, but also for the whole of Japan to come over to Britain and have a big-race winner. “Today’s victory is important for Japan because it showed that it is not just possible to come here and compete, but that it is also possible to win. Hopefully, we can have a good influence on Japanese racing with this win. “It was a very big challenge to come here. We have been in Britain for three months with Deirdre and we are so pleased that we kept believing in her. We had a lot of support and this has made this victory possible. “We were just hoping for the best for her today. It was a gloriously sunny day at Glorious Goodwood and everything just fell right for her. Goodwood is a beautiful racecourse. It is very different to Japanese racecourses which are usually oval-shaped. We were sure that she would like this track and it worked out very well. The quicker ground was another important factor for her today and it is very special to win a Group One event in Britain. “We could see at Royal Ascot that she was trying very hard. There was heavy rain there and that did not help her chances. “A lot of credit has to go to Oisin Murphy. We did not give him any instructions and just decided to let him ride the horse in the way he felt right. He is a brilliant jockey. “We have not yet decided if Deirdre will return

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QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL REVIEW

Image supplied by Goodwood Racecourse

to Japan or whether she will stay over here. We will make that decision in the coming days when we sit down and have a chat about what we should do next. She could possibly stay in Europe. “Deirdre is a daughter of Harbinger so that is one of the reasons we came over here. After Royal Ascot, we stayed in Newmarket, and thanks goes to Jane Chapple-Hyam. We had very good surroundings and we trained very well coming here. Hopefully, everybody at home [in Japan] was watching.” Murphy, who is leading Britain’s Stobart Jockeys’ Championship with 86 winners, three clear of Danny Tudhope, formed contacts in Japan during a visit there in January when he rode in a number of races. He said: “I’m so glad the Japanese have bought a horse here and she has performed. I’ve been telling people since I came back from Japan of the regard they hold their horses in, and it’s fantastic they have won a Group One race here - she was already a Group One winner, but it is great to do it in Britain. “I can’t tell you how pleased and thrilled I am for all the connections.” Murphy added: “I had a lovely draw beside Mehdaayih, and Hermosa was just on my outside. I would have liked to have sat a bit closer but couldn’t go the pace. There was no pressure on me and so I rode her as I felt from instinct. It paid off, she picked up really well and I was able to use that fresh strip of ground on the rail. “She’s a big, masculine mare, a real physical, and I’m not surprised she was able to carry the 60 kilo

[9st 7lb] which is far more than she would be used to carrying in Japan. I kept looking at her price, but thinking she had a wonderful chance. She worked brilliant, but to go and win against a decent field was something else. “Hopefully we will see more horses from Japan coming over. Northern Farm, which bred this mare, has some wonderful pedigrees and this is a huge result. When in Japan I was spoilt because I rode great horses every morning.” John Gosden said of the runner-up: “The race went great even though I didn’t think we would make the running. Mehdaayih broke well - unlike her - and I noticed that Frankie [Dettori] and Ryan [Moore on Hermosa] were up there wanting to control the race and they went a bit hard for the first furlong. “Mehdaayih has run a blinder and looked like she had got it won, but Deirdre slipped up the inside rail. It is a fantastic result for racing. “For a young filly, Mehdaayih was a long time in front and she got a little bit lonely. “I left the tactics open, I said that if she didn’t break well to bring her wide on the outside, but if she did break well to, by all means, ride it has you find it. A young filly like this, she has never been in front in her life. “I think we will freshen her up, Frankie was quite keen to freshen her up and go for the Prix de l’Opera. “I think to bring Deirdre over here from Japan and win a Group One like this, at a great festival, it is fantastic for international racing and for Japanese racing. If we were going to be beaten, I am delighted to be beaten by the Japanese. “I saw Deirdre as a threat today, I have seen her train across the road in Newmarket and I know her form. She is a tough race mare, a real pro, and her owners are the most charming people. “It is a fabulous result for racing. We have had two fabulous results today, the charity race and this. I think it is wonderful for racing and wonderful for the country. “I hear that there might be at least three horses coming over from Japan for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomph so this great. Frankie Dettori added: “She ran a super race. We were beaten by an older mare but no complaints.”

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REVIEW QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL

BATTAASH AT THE TREBLE IN THE KING GEORGE STAKES Battaash emulated Stradivarius, by winning at Group level, for the third successive year, at the Qatar Goodwood Festival, with his Group Two success in the King George Qatar Stakes. Nine went to post for this five-furlong race. From the gates it was Ornate who led from Copper Knight and Rebecca Rocks, while Battaash also arced prominently. Battaash soon powered into the lead and moved two lengths clear at the two-furlong pole. The Charlie Hills runner kept up the gallop inside the final furlong and although the Australian mare Houtzen closed late on, she never threatened to pass Battaash. Ornate came home third. Battaash will try once again to leave previous disappointments at York behind after a recordbreaking third successive win in the King George Qatar Stakes, in which he recorded a time just 0.19s outside the course record of 56.01s set by Rudi’s Pet in the corresponding race 20 years ago. The winning margin over former Australian speedster Houtzen was just three-quarters of a length, but it was another impressive performance from the Charlie Hills-trained gelding, who never

looked in much danger and whose busy schedule through the second half of the season could ultimately take him to the Breeders’ Cup at Santa Anita, via York, the Curragh and Longchamp. Hills said: “It is such a pleasure to be involved in a horse like this. To win three King George Stakes, I think it is the first time it has ever been done. I am quite emotional - he is a special horse. Jim just said he seemed to be idling there in front, which is good because he is taking his racing much better and there are a good few races now we can target towards the end of the year. “Sheikh Hamdan is keen to go to York next. He has not won there before, but I still scratch my head because there is no reason why he would not handle a track like that. Then we will probably go to Ireland after that, all being well. “There are only so many Group 1s over five furlongs, so he’s got to go back to York. He was only beaten a couple of lengths last year. In the past though we’ve driven him up the night before, and I think this time we’ll take him up on the morning of the race.” He added: “Bob [Grace, the groom] and Battaash are a marriage made in heaven, they get on so well. I am so pleased for Bob. He has been in this game a long time and looked after Battaash’s sire Dark Angel. Then we had Battaash’s dam as well in our

Image supplied by Goodwood Racecourse

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QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL REVIEW yard. It is lovely teamwork and it is just a pleasure to have a wonderful horse like him.” Hills, who pointed out that Houtzen had some very good form in Australia, has big plans for Battaash this autumn. Looking ahead he said: “After York there’s the Flying Five, and then we’ll go to France for the Abbaye [which Battaash won two years ago when it was run at Chantilly].He’s very lightly raced really and is taking everything in his stride. He’s much less stressed at the races. “There are [at least] three more races for him this year and then hopefully the Breeders’ Cup, although we will have to talk to Sheikh Hamdan about that. It’s five furlongs again and it’s a lot of prize money. We don’t want to be too greedy, but last year he had very little racing.” Battaash becomes the first horse to win the King George Qatar Stakes three times. Seven horses have won the contest twice. Crowley said: “He’s brilliant. Obviously he was not as visually impressive today as last year; he wasn’t doing a lot in front and to be fair, I never used my stick on him today, just hands and heels. Maybe if I had given him a reminder he would have gone on and been more impressive, but I really didn’t want him to go on and win by five or six lengths and have a harder race than he had to. We’ve got other races for him this year and I’d love it to be third time lucky in the Nunthorpe at York. “He’s a special horse. He’s all speed and he probably only just gets five furlongs. If there were four and a half furlong races around he’d be unbelievable. Ascot just finds him out a little bit; it’s almost like six furlongs there, but he loves it here. Hopefully it’s third time lucky for the Nunthorpe. “He was quite on it early on. We went very quick, as you would imagine. The horse who led me along couldn’t take me any further. There just aren’t many horses around quick enough to lead him. It was a great performance; fair play to Charlie [Hills] and all the team. He’s settling down a bit - he was much better going out and going down to the start today, and he’s growing up a lot. “Goodwood is my local track and it’s fantastic to win here. It’s a pleasure to be associated with this horse.”

ENBIHAAR IMPRESSES AT GOODWOOD Enbihaar ran away with the Group Two Qatar Lillie Langtry Stakes at Goodwood. A field of seven fillies lined-up for this 1 ¾ mile contest, but at the line, only one filly counted. Enbihaar’s five-length win had owner Hamdan Al Maktoum’s racing manager Angus Gold suggesting that the Group One Irish St Leger at the Curragh on September 15th could come into calculations. She would need supplementing in order to run there, but her rate of improvement has been such that it could be money well spent. The Group Two DFS Park Hill Stakes at Doncaster the same week is among the alternatives for her. The Redoute’s Choice filly, was John Gosden’s fourth winner of the Qatar Goodwood Festival from only eight runners. The Newmarket handler has now saddled 40 winners at the Qatar Goodwood Festival during his career. Gold said: “I was really impressed with her. I’m a real fan of this filly. She was quite hot and fizzy as a two-year-old but she has absolutely settled down now and loves her work. She stays surprising well for a Redoute’s Choice, and she handles this fast ground. It was a really good performance with a penalty. “She’s got a magnificent stride on her, and she must be about 16.3hh, but she was light framed when we bought her and has just really developed. I’m delighted for Sheikh Hamdan, who kept her in training.” Jockey Jim Crowley suggested the Irish St Leger to Gold, who added that the Park Hill was another possibility but admitted he had not wanted to tempt fate by thinking beyond this race. Crowley said: “She had a 3lb penalty and that was a big performance to do what she did there. It’s very sporting that [owner] Sheikh Hamdan has kept her in training as a four-year-old - you can see how big she is and, obviously, it has really come to fruition with the extra year. It has taken a while for her to fill her frame and she is only just coming good now. She’s getting better with every run. “She has stopped getting so hot - she was walking around before the race cool as a cucumber.

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REVIEW QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL

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“I wanted to be handy. She is a big filly and she didn’t jump well. She got caught out for speed a bit early on. You run very quickly down into a sharp bend and I got shuffled back a bit. It was plan B then, just getting her relaxed and to follow the pace. That is why I was conscious to get her on the outside and get her rolling quite early. I thought I’d make my move sooner rather than later, rather than get tapped for a bit of toe on her. “She just gallops and is a real star. She’s got a big stride on her and really covers the ground. You always worry how much you will find, but she found plenty today.

“I believe there is a new Group One at the Arc meeting over a mile and five furlongs for fillies only, the Prix de Royallieu, and I’m sure Mr Gosden has already got that pencilled in. I’d love to win a Group One with her. She deserves it.” Ralph Becket was delighted with the run of Manuela De Vega, stating: “I am delighted with her run. The obvious place to go with her would be the Group Two Park Hill Stakes.” Jockey Harry Bentley added: “She has run really well. The pace was a little bit slow for my liking, but she has run all the way to the line and stayed the trip.”

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QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL REVIEW

KHAADEM STORMS TO VICTORY IN THE STEWARDS’ CUP Khaadem took his rivals apart with an imperious performance in the Unibet Stewards’ Cup at Goodwood. One of the big sprint handicaps of the season attracted a field of 27 runners over the six furlongs. Khaadem’s easy victory for trainer Charlie Hills and jockey Jim Crowley was a second win in the handicap for his trainer, following Magical Memory in 2015. Khaadem carried 9st 6lb to his two and three-

quarter lengths triumph over Open Wide - the highest weight ever carried to victory in the race by a three-year-old. The previous record belonged to Red Alert, who carried 9st 2lb when winning in 1974, and Matador, who carried the same weight in 1956.. A delighted Hills, for whom this was a third success of the 2019 Qatar Goodwood Festival, said: “I so enjoyed that, everything went perfectly really. Three-year-olds have got a pretty good record in this race recently. I am sure that he could get seven furlongs if we wanted to go that route, but he is the most beautiful-looking horse. “He is growing up with every race that he has and we have to look at a Group race next. He is a class horse and is only going to get better and better, so I think we have to go to the top table with him. “I guess we will have to look at the G1 [Sprint Cup] at Haydock. Magical Memory won this race and just got touched off there. I think this fellow is a very good horse who is only going to get better and better.” Asked about Khaadem’s price, which shortened considerably in recent days, Hills replied: “He’s a three-year-old and sometimes they attract quite a bit of attention. He ran a terrific race at Newbury last time when nothing really went the right way. You can never be too confident in a big-race field like this about the draw and how the pace is. He doesn’t know what he price he is! “I think he could be a Group horse - I think he’s up to that. He did it really impressively today. I was really impressed with the way he behaved today. He was a little bit mentally not quite on his A game earlier in the year; he had to have a hood on in the preliminaries, but now he’s growing up and starting to become a man. Hopefully we’ve got a tremendous future with this horse. “He had a dirty scope after the Commonwealth Cup [at Royal Ascot]; he just wasn’t right. He was just so lethargic that day and I had really fancied him, but at least we had an excuse for that and we’ve put that to bed now. His last two races have been fantastic.” Crowley said: “Fair play to Charlie for running him in the race. As a three-year-old, this race suits him well and, after his last run, he is a Group horse in a handicap. Mentally, he is improving all the time and it was a great performance.

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REVIEW QATAR GOODWOOD FESTIVAL “I had to squeeze through a bit of a gap up Joe Fanning’s inside at the two pole but we were always in a dream run and it worked out perfect.” He added: “The week’s got better. I knew Friday and Saturday were my best days, and so it has proved. He got no luck in running last time and Charlie hass always held him in high regard. “He’s got the most beautiful pedigree, and we’d love to make a stallion out of him by winning a Group 1. Charlie went for the Haydock Sprint Cup with Magical Memory after he won this, and that’s the sort of race this horse can go for now.” Open Wide, came home two and three quarter lengths adrift of the impressive Khaadem, in the Unibet Stewards’ Cup, the feature heritage handicap over six furlongs on the last day of the Qatar Goodwood Festival 2019. Local trainer Amanda Perrett, based near Pulborough, said: “Open Wide had a little bit of ground to make up - they went very quick. Jim [Crowley, Khaadem] was virtually upsides us three out, but has got a slightly better run through. “We were beaten by a better horse on the day, no excuses. We are very proud of our horse. He has

run twice this week and loves top of the ground - hopefully they might take away his Timeform squiggle now!” Perrett went on to comment on the watered ground, after four millimetres of water was put on the straight overnight: “We started the meeting on rain-softened ground and today, on the last day of the meeting, they have put four millimetres of water on the straight. It is not fair on these fast ground horses. They have got the conditions to suit them and they have gone and watered. Mark Johnston (fellow trainer) is very right - they have got to make the ground safe, but they shouldn’t make it loose on top. These horses have been waiting for fast ground all year.” Pat Dobbs, partner of the five-year-old Invincible Spirit gelding, added: “I didn’t get the run I wanted - I got drawn left all the way and I wanted to go right.” Apprentice Cieren Fallon, jockey of the third, Raucous, a further three quarters of a length back, said: “It was an unbelievable race, especially with a six pound penalty. He got a bit lonely on his own - I think that if something would have challenged him, he would have battled on.”

Image supplied by Goodwood Racecourse

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LANDING NIGHT – 7YO An 8 times winner of nearly £60,000 in prize money, our club favourite who always gives us a run for our money and is surely destined to win again soon.

PLUMETTE – 3YO Runner up on recent debut, beaten ½ to an experienced horse rated 82.

MOONBOOTZ – 2YO A gorgeous looking £105,000 yearling purchase by first season sire sensation No Nay Never who is keeping us excited for the summer.

REVIEW YORK EBOR FESTIVAL

York Ebor Festival

REVIEW

Day One VICTORY FOR JAPAN IN THE JUDDMONTE INTERNATIONAL STAKES Japan struck a blow for the three year-olds, with a hard-fought victory in the Group One Juddmonte International Stakes at York. A field of nine contested one of the big middledistance races of the year. Circus Maximus took the field along, with Crystal Ocean always sat handily in second. The race developed down the home straight, as Crystal Ocean went on, but Japan came to challenge and the pair fought out a tremendous battle in the final quarter of a mile.

Neither horse would give way and at the line, just a head separated the two, with the Ryan Mooreridden Japan, delivering a sixth win in the race for trainer Aidan O’Brien. A further length back in third came the supplemented Elarqam, with King Of Comedy another ¾ of a length back in fourth. “He’s made progress from day one,” O’Brien told Racing TV. “He’s the type who will never win by far but is a lovely relaxed horse who does what he needs to do. That’s the best form of any three-year-old this season.” Jockey Ryan Moore added: “He’s got a great temperament. He’s kept improving since he ran in the Dante here and ran all the way to the line. “It was a very hard battle and fortunately this lad got here really late. He’s hasn’t put a foot wrong and keeps getting better.”

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YORK EBOR FESTIVAL REVIEW

YORKSHIRE VICTORY IN THE ACOMB STAKES AS VALDERMORO GETS UP Valdermoro made it a local victory as he landed the Group Three Tattersalls Acomb Stakes at York for trainer Richard Fahey. A field of nine juveniles went to post for this seven-furlong contest and the Aidan O’Brien runner, Harpocrates, was soon to the fore. With a quarter of a mile to race, Ryan Moore kicked on and Harpocrates went clear. However, he came under pressure with a furlong to run, as Tony Hamilton and Valdermoro began to reel him in. The son of Declaration Of War got up in time to beat Harpocrates by a neck, with the pair clear of Ropey Guest. Valdermoro had finished third on debut, before scoring in a minor Doncaster contest. Logician impressive in Great Voltigeur Stakes Logician laid down a very firm marker for the Ladbrokes St Leger, as he maintained his unbeaten record with a decisive victory in the Group Two Sky Bet Great Voltigeur Stakes at York. Just five horses went to post for this traditional St Leger trial, with the John Gosden colt unbeaten in three starts and taking on established pattern racehorses. Norway, one of two Aidan O’Brien horses in the race, set the tempo. However, Frankie Dettori had every move covered and went on aboard Logician, with two furlongs to run. He quickly drew clear, comfortably accounting for Norway’s stablemate Constantinople, by 1 ¾ lengths, with Norway a remote seven lengths back in third. The son of Frankel is likely to head to Doncaster next, for the final Classic, a race his trainer has won on four previous occasions.

Day Two LIVING IN THE PAST STORMS TO LOWTHER STAKES GLORY

Image supplied by Goffs

Living In The Past romped to victory, making all the running, as she won the Group Two Sky Bet Lowther Stakes at York. Danny Tudhope dominated proceedings on the Karl Burke-trained filly and none of her rivals ever threatened to challenge her. Nasaiym and Precious Moments were the closest pursuers, but Living In The Past burned that pair off and was still ¾ of a length clear of the closing Liberty Beach, at the line. A further length away was Good Vibes, who grabbed third spot from Under The Stars.

ENABLE THE QUEEN OF YORK AGAIN The brilliant Enable kept up her remarkable run of victories with another imperious display to land the Group One Darley Yorkshire Oaks at York. The superstar mare, on probably her last start on home soil, led from the start and asserted early in the long home straight. Magical and stable mate Lah Ti Dar, flanked Enable with just over a couple of furlongs to go, but the long-time leader lengthened away comfortably. Enable romped home 2 ¾ lengths clear of old rival Magical, setting her up for a crack at an unprecedented third victory in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

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REVIEW YORK EBOR FESTIVAL

SEARCH FOR A SONG HITS THE RIGHT NOTE IN THE GALTRES STAKES

The John Gosden-trained five year old was making it 13 wins from her 14 career starts to date, in which time she has amassed over £9.5 million in prize money. Ridden, as always, by Frankie Dettori, Enable was winning her second Yorkshire Oaks. The jockey said: “I’m really tearful because this is the last day she will be running in England – it’s special. I’m emotional because she’s so good. She’s amazing and the turnout is fantastic.” Trainer John Gosden said: “It was a gorgeous performance and there was no point of taking her back as she’s quick from the gates. He [Dettori] said she really quickened the last two furlongs, she really turned it on. “She likes her training and she likes her racing. I’m glad we have brought her here, it was a lovely prep [for the Arc] and we couldn’t be more pleased with her. “She has this amazing, competitive mind – if you were married to her you would have to listen. She is a great filly, great constitution and we started life out at Newcastle and she’s done nothing but pleased. I’ve seen some wonderful racemares in my time and she’s one of those.” Gosden added: “She had a battle in the King George, Frankie wasn’t hard on her though, and today she showed her class against the fillies. Now you’ve got a big old mountain to climb in the Arc. “If she goes back to her three-year-old form, as you saw today, she is mighty tough to beat. But watch out for the three-year-olds as they’re getting the weight.”

There was a second victory in the Listed British EBF & Sir Henry Cecil Galtres Stakes for Dermot Weld, as Search For A Song ran out a convincing winner at York. Ten fillies and mares lined up for this race over an extended 11 furlongs. From the break it was Spirit Of Appin who led from Search For A Song, who raced wide for Oisin Murphy. Settling down, Search For A Song went into the lead from Spirit Of Appin and Frankellina, who also raced wide. Frankellina took on the front-running duties and took the field into the home straight with Search For A Song stalking her and Spirit Of Appin delivering her challenge early in the straight. The field fanned out across the centre of the track and with two furlongs to race, Search For A Song began to kick into gear. With a furlong to race, Search For A Song was a length clear of Vivionn and Spirit Of Appin and she was kept up to her work to land the spoils comfortably. Weld took the prize in 2012 with Pale Mimosa and commented: “She did that very nicely. Oisin did a nice job getting her in behind the speed and she’s a nice staying filly. I was quite relaxed throughout the race. “We’ll see how she comes out of the race before we decide where she goes. She’ll definitely be in Group company next, but I really see her coming into her own as a four-year-old.”

Day Three STRADIVARIUS IN COMMAND IN THE LONSDALE CUP Superstar stayer Stradivarius, made it back-to-back Weatherbys Hamilton Stayers Million bonuses, as he won the Group Two Lonsdale Cup at York.

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YORK EBOR FESTIVAL REVIEW The pre-eminent stayer of this era ran out a comfortable winner in the end, under Frankie Dettori. The field was taken along by last year’s Derby runner-up Dee Ex Bee, who led into the straight with Il Paradiso. However, the five year-old Stradivarius, was travelling well in behind and swept into the lead inside the last quarter of a mile. His two pursuers kept on gamely, but were ultimately no match for the John Gosden-trained superstar, who held Dee Ex Bee by 1 ¼ lengths. Dettori told Racing TV: “He’s a grand horse. He’s a stayer with a turn of foot and I pulled him out and he won by a length. “They tried something different (tactically) but he’s just too good. He’s a good horse - I’m just a passenger.”

as he broke and had a nice position and things went smoothly he was going to win. “He’s going to get a mile I’d imagine no problem, so the fact he’s a Group Two winner over six furlongs is really exciting. He has lots of class, I’m thrilled to get the job done and I think this horse will go on to better things.”

BATTAASH BLITZES RIVALS IN THE NUNTHORPE STAKES

THREAT ON TOP IN THE GIMCRACK STAKES Threat confirmed his proven Pattern race class as he landed the Group Two Gimcrack Stakes at York. The Coventry Stakes and Richmond Stakes runner-up gained a deserved first Pattern success with a comfortable victory under Oisin Murphy. Threat tracked the leaders and when asked to quicken, he readily beat Lord Of The Lodge by a length and a quarter, Repartee in third. The victory gave Richard Hannon jnr his first victory in the top juvenile contest, with his father winning the race with Sharp N’ Early (1988), Rock City (1989), River Falls (1991) and Bannister (2000). “From the time the gates opened, he was the winner,” said Murphy. “Going into the race as long

29 years on from the astonishing Dayjur, Battaash, another colt in the Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum silks, put up a sparkling display on the Knavesmire, to lower his predecessor’s track record with victory in the Group One Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes at York. Eleven lined-up for this five furlong contest and Ornate was soon into the lead, with Battaash and Jim Crowley sitting pretty in behind him, while Soldier’s Call also showed good early speed. With two furlongs to run, Battaash had cruised into the lead and Soldier’s Call fought hard to keep up with him. But Battaash asserted in the final furlong and drew away from his rivals in brilliant style. At the line, Battaash was 3 ¾ lengths clear, with Soldier’s Call a clear second and So Perfect third, while July Cup winner Ten Sovereigns, was a never dangerous sixth. “He loves York and so do I!” winning trainer Charlie Hills quipped. “That was amazing. I was really pleased with his draw. It’s quite emotional. Jim gave him a lovely ride and everything has worked out perfectly. He’s seriously fast.”

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REVIEW YORK EBOR FESTIVAL Battaash has his quirks, but was travelled up from Hills’s Lambourn stable in Friday morning rather than the night before. “It’s attention to detail with this horse and you try different things,” added Hills, who trains the son of Dark Angel for Hamdan Al Maktoum.

Day Four SHINE SO BRIGHT HOLDS ON IN A CITY OF YORK STAKES THRILLER

Shine So Bright made all the running and held on in a desperately tight finish to the Group Two Sky Bet City Of York Stakes on the Knavesmire. A classy field of ten took part in this seven-furlong race, including multiple Group One winner Laurens. At the break it was Laurens who led with Cape Byron and Shine So Bright. The latter pressed on and moved two lengths clear. With two furlongs to race, Shine So Bright had his rivals under pressure, with Laurens gradually edging closer. Laurens inch by inch wore down her rival down and the pair looked virtually inseparable as they flashed past the post, clear of Cape Byron. Shine So Bright was called the winner, beating Laurens by the narrowest of margins, to follow-up his European Free Handicap victory at Newmarket, in the spring.

MUSTAJEER PLUNDERS THE MILLION-POUND EBOR FOR IRELAND Mustajeer, third last year, went two places better, as he held off Red Galileo to land the first one-million pound Sky Bet Ebor Handicap at York. A full field of 22 contested this one mile, 5 ½ furlong contest. Ben Vrackie was soon to the fore and set a good pace, with Dramatic Queen and Withhold also prominent. Ben Vrackie took the field into the home straight, with Dramatic Queen and Making Miracles both dropping away and pulling up. Meanwhile, Ben Vrackie came under pressure and True Self took it up with two furlongs to race, while Mustajeer and Red Galileo made ground. Mustajeer and Colin Keane joined the leaders with two furlongs to race and whilst Red Galileo closed to the stands rails, the Ger Lyons runner was still ¾ of a length to the good. Desert Skyline took third, with Raymond Tusk and Barsanti the next to finish – both having a less than clear passage. Keane said: “It was a very good performance. It was pretty smooth and I probably got there a bit sooner than I wanted to. “His aim at the start of the year was to be here and it’s a brilliant training performance by Ger. I’m just grateful to be riding him.”

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A classical landscape fit for thoroughbreds.

PE A R L S ECR E T GR.2 WINNING SPRINTER BY SPEED SIRE COMPTON PLACE CONSISTENT 5F STAKES WINNER Won 3 Group/Stakes races and twice Gr.1 placed, all over 5f. OUT OF A 5F STAKES WINNING MARE From the family of Dutch Art. Sold to Jamie Railton x2, Tally-Ho Stud, Norris/Huntingdon, Paul Murphy, Redwall Bloodstock, Star Bloodstock, etc.

FIRST FOALS IN 2018 ARE REAL GEMS

AVERAGING OVER 4X HIS STUD FEE

Sold to Jamie Railton Sales Agency, consigned by Glashare 42,000gns House Stud Colt ex TATTERSALLS

Ermine And Velvet

Sold to Torard House Stud, consigned by Salcey Forest Stud

26,000gns

Colt ex Indigo Beat

TATTERSALLS

Sold to Tally-Ho Stud, consigned by Bucklands €40,000 Farm & Stud Colt ex GOFFS Kirunavaara

€28,000

Colt ex Mastoora

Sold to Old McDonnell Farm B/S, consigned by Nanallac Stud GOFFS

Sold to Jamie Railton Sales Agency, consigned by Salcey Forest Stud €20,000 GOFFS

Fee: £4,000 1st October

Chapel Stud Ltd Chapel Lane, Bransford, Worcestershire WR6 5JQ 01452 717 342 www.chapelstud.co.uk

Colt ex Mothers Finest

Roisin Close

Daniel Creighton

07738 279 071

07597 945 219

roisin@chapelstud.co.uk

NEWS UK RACING

AN EIGHTH LANCASHIRE OAKS FOR GOSDEN AS ENBIHAAR WINS Enbihaar’s stamina won the day as she got the better of long-time leader Dramatic Queen, in the Group Two bet365 Lancashire Oaks at Haydock Park. Six older fillies went to post for this race over just short of 1 ½ miles. At the break, Dramatic Queen who went on by a length from Nyaleti and Enbihaar. Dramatic Queen continued to lead, moving into a two length advantage over Nyaleti and Enbihaar, who matched strides, while Shailene raced fourth and then came Klassique and the patiently ridden Highgarden. Racing to the home turn, Dramatic Queen still led, with Nyaleti moving into a clear second, while Enbihaar began to challenge to the inside. Racing to the furlong pole Dramatic Queen was finding plenty, with Enbihaar the big danger, as nothing else came out of the pack. Dane O’Neill had to work hard, but gradually Enbihaar wore Dramatic Queen down, winning by about half a length. Klassique was well back in third. Enbihaar was landing a record eighth success in the Lancashire Oaks for trainer John Gosden.

Addeybb gave chase, but at the line, Elarqam had a 3 ¼ length advantage, with Knight To Behold taking third, ahead of Regal Reality, who never threatened.

GLORIOUS JOURNEY LANDS THE HUNGERFORD STAKES Glorious Journey, a horse who never quite lived up to his seven figure price tag, belatedly showed himself to be a leading performer at the specialist seven furlong trip with the biggest victory of his career in the Group Two Unibet Hungerford Stakes. At 2.6 million guineas Glorious Journey was the joint highest sale-topper at Book 1 of the 2016 Tattersalls October Yearling Sale and began his career with an unbeaten two-year-old campaign under Charlie Appleby. But he had added only one more victory to his record and had been gelded by the time he confirmed his prowess over a shorter trip by seeing off Librisa Breeze by half a length in Newbury’s £100,000 prize under jockey James Doyle.

ELARQAM IMPRESSES IN THE SKY BET YORK STAKES Elarqam stormed to a clear cut victory in the Group Two Sky Bet York Stakes at York. A field of six took part in this extended 1 ¼ mile contest. Forest Ranger broke well but it was soon Knight To Behold who set the pace from Elarqam. Knight To Behold turned into the home straight with a 1 ½ length lead over Elarqam, with Forest Ranger to the inside and then Addeybb, as the sextet moved to the stands’ side. Knight To Behold upped the tempo with three furlongs to race, but had not shaken off Elarqam. Dane O’Neill gave his mount the office and Elarqam struck the front, moving four lengths clear inside the final furlong.

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UK RACING NEWS “We thought quite a bit of him as a two-yearold,” said Doyle. “He obviously has a fantastic pedigree but we just lost him a little bit. “Dropping back in trip was Charlie’s idea and it’s been the making of him. We have dabbled at six but the seven furlongs is perfect for him. I hit the front too soon after Donjuan Triumphant didn’t take me far enough. “I was a little nervous late on as to whether he would have the tenacity to hold of Librisa Breeze but it was a sure sign of him growing up. There is lots more to look forward to. He can perform at a fair level but needs a little bit of ease in the ground.”

DUKE OF HAZZARD GIVES CAUSE TO CELEBRATE Paul Cole’s improving Duke Of Hazzard made it three wins from as many starts at Goodwood, as he landed the Group Two Ladbrokes Celebration Mile. Six horses lined-up for this one-mile contest. The filly Nyaleti took the field along for much of the contest, flanked by Happy Power

With two furlongs to race, Happy Power had gone on, with Turgenev pulled out for a run and Rossa Ryan taking closer order on Duke Of Hazzard. It was the latter who burst through inside the final half a furlong and went on to score a touch snugly, beating Turgenev by ¾ of a length, with Happy Power a further head back in third.

HELLO YOUMZAIN CLAIMS THE SPRINT CUP

Image supplied by Newbury Racecourse

Hello Youmzain, who beat Calyx on rain-softened Haydock ground in May, landed the Group One Betfair Sprint Cup Stakes at the same track, on similar ground. Eleven sprinters ran in this six-furlong race, with the big names, Advertise and Ten Sovereigns both skipping Haydock due to a bad scope and the ground respectively. As the contest got underway, it was Major Jumbo the grey who led with Forever In Dreams, but Hello Youmzain and Invincible Army soon moved to the head of affairs. Hello Youmzain led to halfway from Invincible Army and Major Jumbo, with So Perfect behind these. With two furlongs to race it was still Hello Youmzain who began to lengthen. But Invincible Army fought back as The Tin Man, last year’s winner closed.

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NEWS UK RACING There was little to choose between the two but Enbihaar kept on gamely to see off her younger rival by a short head, with the pair clear of Vivid Diamond in third. Crowley said of the winner, who was conceding 13 pounds “She was brilliant. She slipped a bit on the bend turning in and scared herself. It took her time to get into a rhythm again and she toughed it out brilliantly. “It was very sporting of Sheikh Hamdan to keep her in training for another year and it’s really paying dividends now.”

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

However, Hello Youmzain found more for James Doyle’s efforts and despite drifting across to the far rail, he held off The Tin Man by about ¾ of a length. The German horse Waldpfad came home third, just ahead of Brando. Doyle said afterwards “That was good. It was nice to get one over the line and full credit to Kevin (Ryan) and his team. “This lad hasn’t been entirely straight forward but the engine has always been there and I think the whole team have done a great job to manage that and channel it all in the right direction.”

ENBIHAAR RESILIENT IN PARK HILL STAKES Enbihaar continued her run of Group victories with a tenacious display to beat Delphinia in the Group Two DFS Park Hill Stakes at Doncaster. Eight fillies went to post for this 14 ½ furlong contest, with Enbihaar the only older filly to take part. Peach Tree took the field along in the early stages and soon moved clear of Vivid Diamond, as Jim Crowley settled Enbihaar at the rear of the field. There was little change as Peach Tree entered the home straight with Vivid Diamond closing. However, as Vivd Diamond went on, Enbihaar and Delphinia came with their runs and overhauled the leader with a furlong to race.

POWERFUL BREEZE IMPRESSES IN THE MAY HILL STAKES Powerful Breeze was unaffected by the gusty conditions as she impressed in the Group Two William Hill May Hill Stakes at Doncaster. Nine juvenile fillies lined-up for this one-mile contest, with West End Girl leading as they raced down the centre of the track, chased by Cloak Of Spirits and Boomer. West End Girl continued to lead, but was challenged with two furlongs to race and found little. Powerful Breeze and James Doyle pressed on with a fine turn of foot and sustained her effort in good style. The Hugo Palmer filly ran out a comfortable winner by a length, with Boomer taking second and Alpen Rose third.

STRADIVARIUS IMPERIOUS IN THE DONCASTER CUP Stradivarius added his name to the illustrious list of former winners, as he made it ten consecutive victories in the Group Two Magners Rose Doncaster Cup. With Dee Ex Bee a non-runner, just five linedup for this 2 ¼ mile race. Cleonte was soon in front but Stradivarius and Frankie Dettori went to the front at a funeral pace, from Sneaky Getaway.

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UK RACING NEWS

Stradivarius passed the post with a circuit to race, with his ears pricked, looking around him. But as the quintet turned away from the stands, Oisin Murphy pressed on with Cleonte. Heading over Rose Hill, Cleonte led from Sneaky Getaway, with Stradivarius racing three lengths adrift in third, followed by Max Dynamite and Barsanti. Turning into the home straight, Cleonte led by three lengths, with Sneaky Getaway second and Stradivarius moving well. With a quarter of a mile to race, Cleonte was under pressure and Stradivarius began to close. He went on with a furlong to race and Dettori just kept him up to his work for a smooth victory by about two lengths from Cleonte, with Max Dynamite third. The John Gosden trained five year-old has been the star stayer for the past two years and became the first horse to win the stayers’ Triple Crown since Double Trigger. Gosden said “He’s a gorgeous horse to train but he was too fresh at home – rearing up, shouting and playing – so I thought we’d better put him in the Doncaster Cup. “Winning the Gold Cup, Goodwood Cup and this puts him in the top department – he’s a great horse.”

Image supplied by Goffs

A’ALI STORMS TO FLYING CHILDERS SUCCESS A’Ali’s class told as he ran out a convincing winner of the Group Two Wainwright Flying Childers Stakes at Doncaster. Seven juveniles went to post for this fivefurlong race. Wheels On Fire was soon in front, with Frankie Dettori and A’Ali covering every move and Flaming Princess to the centre of the track. With a furlong to race, Wheels On Fire still led, but A’Ali came to take him readily and moved 1 ½ lengths clear with Dream Shot just pipping Wheels On Fire for second.

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NEWS UK RACING The Simon Crisford trained colt was a Royal Ascot winner and ran fifth behind Earthlight in the Group One Prix Morny. Afterwards Crisford confirmed that a trip to the Breeders’ Cup is next for A’Ali.

SIR DANCEALOT BACK ON SONG IN THE PARK STAKES Sir Dancealot came back to his best to convincingly win the Group Two HIRD Rail Group Park Stakes at Doncaster. Five horses lined-up for this prestigious sevenfurlong event. Shine So Bright was soon into his customary front-running role, ploughing a lone furrow to the stands’ side, with Azano leading Never No More to the centre of the track. With two furlongs to race, Shine So Bright still led, with Sir Dancealot coming to challenge and pressing on. The David Elsworth runner stretched away in fine style under Gerald Mosse, winning eased down by two lengths from Never No More and Breton Rock.

THREAT JUST HOLDS ON IN THE CHAMPAGNE STAKES Threat held off the late rally of Royal Crusade to make it back to back Group Two victories, as he landed the Two Pommery Champagne Stakes at Doncaster, on his first start at seven furlongs. Five colts went to post for this sevenfurlong race.

From the break it was Fort Myers, one of two Aidan O’Brien runners, who led from Juan Elcano. The latter joined Fort Myers with three furlongs to race, with Royal Crusade tucked in behind these. But in behind, Threat cruised into contention with 1 ½ furlongs to race and he hit the front inside the final furlong, with Royal Crusade challenging to the far side. It took Threat a while to move into a decisive lead but he moved a length clear. However, the once-raced Royal Crusade fought back at it was tight at the line, with Threat and Pat Dobbs, just getting up. A length back in third came Juan Elcano. The Richard Hannon-trained Threat had won the Gimcrack Stakes prior to this victory.

LOGICIAN POWERS TO ST LEGER GLORY Logician was an emphatic winner of the Group One William Hill St Leger at Doncaster. Eight colts lined-up for the final Classic of the season over 14 ½ furlongs. Sir Dragonet, fifth in the Derby, was very lit up in the preliminaries.

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UK RACING NEWS As the stalls burst open for the final Classic of 2019 in England, it was Logician who broke best, while Sir Dragonet was dropped out last, as Western Australia pressed on to set the pace. Western Australia was soon three lengths clear of Il Paradiso and Sir Ron Priestley, with Dashing Willoughby sat fourth and then Nayef Road and Logician. Technician was last but one, with Sir Dragonet last. Western Australia left Rose Hill with a seven length lead over Il Paradiso and Sir Ron Priestley. The leader came back to his field quickly as they left the back, with il Paradiso’s white face looming large on the home turn, where the field headed to the centre of the track. Il Paradiso went on with three furlongs to race, with Western Australia keeping on and Nayef Road and logician making progress. With two furlongs to race, Logician was in front, with Sir Dragonet and Nayef Road plugging on. But Logician and Frankie Dettori pulled clear on the stands side and powered clear in the final furlong. The imposing grey passed the post 2 ½ lengths clear of the Mark Johnston pair Sir Ron Priestley and Nayef Road, as Sir Dragonet tired late on. Logician, a son of Frankel, is unbeaten in five starts now. “It feels good,” said Dettori. “We came into the race with lots of expectation as a short-priced favourite in front of a massive crowd and everyone likes to see a favourite win on the big day. He’s only run four times and there’s definitely more improvement to come.”

Image supplied by Newbury Racecourse

PIERRE LAPIN LANDS IMPRESSIVE MILL REEF STAKES VICTORY Pierre Lapin looked a super prospect as he ran out a convincing winner of the Dubai Duty Free Mill Reef Stakes at Newbury. On only his second racecourse start the Roger Varian-trained colt, whose name means Peter Rabbit in French, captured the same Group Two prize his half-brother Harry Angel had claimed in 2016. Firepower bid to make all the running and was closely tracked by the Superlative Stakes winner Mystery Power.

Image supplied by Newbury Racecourse

However, with two furlongs to run, the leader had faded and Mystery Power, was flat to the boards, but started to rally, as Shadn made progress. To the stands’ side, Pierre Lapin travelled well for Andrea Atzeni, while on the far side, Malotru began to pick up. It was Pierre Lapin who struck the front with a furlong to race and Malotru’s effort floundered. The unfurnished colt pulled a couple of lengths clear and although Mystery Power stayed on late on, he was 1 ½ lengths down at the line. Shadn took third, ahead of Royal Commando. It was Pierre Lapin’s first run since May and on just his second start, he looked raw, but clearly has a huge engine. Pierre Lapin was giving the former Ger Lyon’s inmate Cappella Sansevero, who stands at Bridge House Stud in Ireland, a big race victory from his first crop.

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NEWS UK RACING Varian, who trains Pierre Lapin for main owner Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum, said “We thought he was a nice horse when he won at Haydock in May and the first impression was that we’ve got a Coventry horse on our hands but he fell away a bit physically and he didn’t look ready for Ascot. “It has taken an age to get him back to where I was happy enough to run him. I would have loved to have run him a few weeks ago to see if he was a Middle Park horse but I didn’t have him where I wanted him. He’s only come good at home in the last two or three weeks. “I’m delighted to see him win like that and I’d like to thank the owner Sheikh Mohammed Obaid for his patience as he’s had to wait a long time for him to reappear. “I think this horse needs to furnish a bit, he’s not the finished article yet. He’s a horse for next year and I think he is a six furlong horse. When he’s a stronger horse, he’ll be a faster horse.” © AJ Byles

INJURY ENDS TOO DARN HOT’S RACING CAREER Too Darn Hot has been retired from racing after sustaining a a hairline fracture of a hind cannonbone. Connections believe that the injury may have occurred as the colt won the recent Group One Qatar Sussex Stakes at Goodwood. It is thought the three-time Group 1 winner suffered the injury during his big-race success on Wednesday. The John Gosden-trained Too Darn Hot underwent surgery at the Newmarket Equine Hospital. Too Darn Hot, a son of Dubawi, had a scintillating juvenile career, landing the Group Two Champagne Stakes at Doncaster and the Group One Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket, as he became Champion Two Year Old. However, his preparations for the 2,000 Guineas came to a halt when he picked up a splint injury in the spring. After placing in the Dante Stakes, Irish 2,000 Guineas and St James’s Palace Stakes, Too Darn

Hot came back to his best with a dominant display in the Group One Prix Jean Prat. He followed that up with victory at Goodwood. Simon Marsh, racing and bloodstock manager to owners Andrew and Madeleine Lloyd Webber, said “Too Darn Hot has undergone emergency surgery to his right-hind cannon after x-rays revealed a hairline fracture. “I’m glad to say he has come safely through surgery. The injury is not life threatening and he should make a full recovery. “His future now lies at Dalham Hall Stud in Newmarket where he will recuperate and stand at stud for the 2020 season. “The Lloyd Webbers and I are very sad we won’t see this champion on the racecourse again. He has given us all so much excitement in winning three Group One races over the last 12 months, culminating in his brilliant victory last week in the Qatar Sussex Stakes.” Frankie Dettori, who rode the colt in all his nine starts, paid tribute on Twitter “Very sad news Too Darn Hot will not be racing again, he was a champion and I will miss riding him.”

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UK RACING NEWS

MIRAGE DANCER HEADS TO AUSTRALIA The Sir Michael Stoute-trained Mirage Dancer is set to continue his racing career in Australia, having been purchased by Australian joint trainers Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young as a Cup horse for the major spring festivals. The five year-old, successful at Group 3 level, ran second to Desert Encounter in the Glorious Stakes at Goodwood last week, on what is likely to be his final racecourse appearance in the UK. Busuttin told Racing.com “He’s been bought for Caulfield and Melbourne Cup berths. He raced in the Group 3 mile-and-a-half race the other night [at Goodwood] and ran second and he seems to have the right credentials for the Cups. “We chanced upon him with [bloodstock agent] Mark Pilkington and he’s put a group together including Seymour Bloodstock and Mark Casey to race him and we’re very lucky he’s going to end up in our stable. “We’ll get out of quarantine in time for a Caulfield Cup start and it will be very exciting for the owners and for the stable.”

“We have been looking for a Cup horse and he is qualified for both races and would get in with a competitive weight,” Busuttin said. “The Caulfield Cup would be an immediate goal and from there, on to a Melbourne Cup. “It [Caulfield Cup] seems a nice race for him but we’ve also got him in the Cox Plate and I’m sure he wouldn’t be out of place in a Cox Plate if he ended up going there.”

BEAT THE BANK LOSES HIS LIFE WINNING A SECOND SUMMER MILE

There was a tragic ending to the Group Two Fred Cowley MBE Memorial Summer Mile Stakes at Ascot, as Beat The Bank, won back to back renewals, but pulled up with a fatal leg injury. The Andrew Balding trained star, a close second in the Group One Queen Anne Stakes, was one of eight horses who took part in this one mile race. The popular Beat The Bank battled hard close home to beat Zaaki by a nose, before suffering injury. De Sousa, King Power’s retained rider, paid tribute by saying “He was a special horse and they absolutely adored him at Andrew’s yard. It’s sad for the Balding team and King Power. “He broke down just before the line and ran his heart out today. He was one of the chairman’s favourite horses and was his first Group winner. It’s just so sad to see that happen. He was always there or thereabouts and ran his best again today.” course-specialist.co.uk

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NEWS UK RACING

DERBY WINNER MASAR IS RETIRED Last year’s Investec Derby winner Masar, has been retired from racing. The Godolphin-owned fou year-old, in the care of Charlie Appleby, failed to recapture his best form in two runs this season, after returning from an injury which side-lined him for over a year. The son of New Approach was a smart two yearold, winning the 2017 Solario Stakes. After disappointing in Dubai in his early three year-old campaign, he blitzed his rivals in the Craven Stakes at Newmarket, including Roaring Lion. Masar went on to finish third in the Qipco 2,000 Guineas, behind Saxon Warrior. However, at Epsom Downs, positions were reversed, as Masar landed the Investec Derby from Dee Ex Bee, Roaring Lion and the Guineas winner, in a high-class renewal. Whilst Roaring Lion went on to become the Champion Racehorse for the Year, Masar was sadly injured and could not race again. He made a belated reappearance in the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot, finishing fifth to Defoe, having stumbled out of the stalls. Masar then contested the Group Two Princess Of Wales’s Tattersalls Stakes at Newmarket, fading late on to finish last of six.

Whilst Appleby publicly retained faith in the colt, the decision has now been made to draw stumps. The trainer told the Racing Post: “First and foremost, Masar has come out his Newmarket race well but after deep discussions with his highness Sheikh Mohammed we have decided to do what’s right for the horse and retire him. “He gave us all an amazing day when winning the Investec Derby, when he was the first to win it in the blue colours and gave me my first domestic Classic win as a trainer. Before that, he had run out a high-class winner of both the Solario and the Craven Stakes. He added “Masar will be sorely missed at Moulton Paddocks but he will be joining another great performer of ours, Blue Point, on the Darley stallion roster in the near future.”

CRYSTAL OCEAN SUSTAINS CAREER ENDING INJURY Crystal Ocean has sustained an injury on the gallops, which appears to have ended his racing career. The Sir Michael Stoute trained five year-old, winner of the Group One Prince of Wales’s Stakes and second in the King George and Juddmonte International Stakes, was pulled up on the Warren Hill Polytrack gallop earlier today. Peter Stanley, spokesman for owner-breeder Sir Evelyn de Rothschild, said “Crystal Ocean has had two screws inserted in a hind cannon bone and has come through the surgery successfully. It should in no way affect his future stud career.”

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October 2019

UK RACING NEWS

Image supplied by Tattersalls

A TRIBUTE TO SEA OF CLASS Such devastating news about the loss of the beautiful Sea Of Class. Times like this you wonder how God operates - how such a beautiful, talented and young filly could have such an awful fate. It is hard to reconcile, just as it was with St Nicholas Abbey, just as it is when we lose loved humans at a young age. Sea Of Class had consummate class, just like her daddy. She had that same silky smooth ability to put a race to bed with ease - at the highest level. I was privileged to see her in the Arc and from her draw and given her tactics, cast doubts on her … how wrong I was. I was lucky to speak to James later that afternoon and told him he could not have ridden a better race. She lived up to her name that day and on many other occasions. Oceans of class… just oodles of talent. Racing has lost two fine young fillies this year with the loss of Lady Kaya a few weeks ago. Both would have been magnificent brood mares. But the biggest loss is always for those closest to the horses and my heart goes out to Team Haggas and Sea Of Class’s owners. Mentally they might have been preparing for this a couple of weeks beforehand, when the prognosis was not good. But the hope then began to rise that maybe, just maybe she might pull through. That has been cruelly dashed and we are simply left with this emptiness and hurt. But I hope the outpouring of grief on social media a) underlines to connections how much she touched our hearts and b) underlines how much racing folk love their horses. Racing has affluence at the highest levels. Some of that excess is going into finding a cure or prevention for colic. It will benefit all breeds of horse.

FORMER TRAINER FERDY MURPHY PASSES AWAY Former top trainer Ferdy Murphy has passed away at the age of 70, following a battle with cancer. The Irishman was an accomplished jockey, who famously partnered the flying Irish mare Anaglogs Daughter to victory in the Aynsley China Trophy at Chepstow, on the journey back from her victory in the Arkle Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, in 1980. But it was as a trainer that Murphy made his mark, setting up Wynbury Stables in North Yorkshire, from where he established a power base. At a time when the north’s grip on National Hunt racing was loosening, Murphy saddled many raiders in the south, winning the 1992 Hennessy Gold Cup with Sibton Abbey. In 1998, he trained the imposing French Holly, a horse with a giant frame, who won the Tolworth Hurdle and the Royal & Sun Alliance Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. He also landed the Prix la Barka at Auteuil but came up against the ultimate nemesis in Istabraq. In 2007, Hot Weld pulled off the amazing feat of landing the Scottish National and Sandown’s seasonending Betfred Gold Cup in successive weeks in 2007. Hot Weld was one of three Scottish Grand National winners for Murphy, who also saddled Paris Pike and Joes Edge to win the Ayr race. L’Antartique proved another big Cheltenham winner and Murphy’s final Grade One winner came with Kalahari King’s success at the 2009 Grand National meeting. In his last interview, Murphy spoke of his pride watching Russell ride Tiger Roll, the historymaking horse. Those paying tribute included 2013 Grand National-winning trainer Sue Smith who said “He was a great supporter of the North and had an excellent record in all the big races. “He and Harvey worked together a lot for racing in the North. He always had a story to tell and will be much missed.” Murphy passed away peacefully at his home in France where he had lived since giving up training in 2013.

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REVIEW NEWMARKET OPEN WEEKEND

Newmarket’s Henry Cecil Open Weekend brings the horses to the public

alking on Warren Hill at 7am was a truly magical experience, with the only noise the breeze on a picture perfect, glorious autumn morning. Oh to be able to bottle the very essence of Warren Hill, its natural beauty, its peace and quiet, its exclusiveness and its history – imagine all of the great horses over the past 300plus years, who have graced this location. But on Sunday, September 22nd, what is normally the exclusive domain of owners, trainers, jockeys and stable staff, very much became public territory as Newmarket staged the second day of the Henry Cecil Open Weekend. Warren Hill was just for starters, as 21 of the town’s racing yards opened their doors and provided a warm welcome to the public.

It all started for Course Specialist an hour before the very public gallops of some of John Gosden’s great stable stars. Standing in isolation, I was joined by a lady who it turned out was the late Michael Jarvis’s former wife. We watched the two Tom Clover horses gallop up the famous all-weather strip and reminisced about Carroll House’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe victory – some 30 years ago now. Four Sir Mark Prescott horses were next to make their way up the famous hill. Then Marco Botti appeared at the top of the hill to watch some of his string exercise, followed by some Roger Varian horses. By 8am, the crowds were starting to gather, strung out along the perimeter, right the way down to the foot of the hill. William Haggas took the microphone as two of his stable

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NEWMARKET OPEN WEEKEND REVIEW

stars, Addeybb and Move Swiftly. He explained how his team of grooms had voted to wear bright fluorescent orange tops in the winter, meaning William has always been able to distinguish his horses amid the hurley burley of a normal exercise day. Then came the moment in truth, that had brought most people to Warren Hill, as John Gosden took to the mic. Accompanied by his wife, Newmarket’s current Mayor, Rachel Hood, John gave narrative as his seven horses made their way across, past Sir Mark Prescott’s yard and to the foot of the hill. First up was Stradivarius, who John had told us was quick to let people know his thoughts. Indeed, having breezed past and up to the top of the hill, the five year-old superstar could be heard whinnying. Next on the track was the recent St Leger winner Logician, who moved smoothly up the hill. He will not race again this year, but Gosden announced he would be dropping the colt in distance for next year’s middle distance races. Enbihaar, Lah Ti Dar and Terebellum all came past and then the popular and improving grey Coronet breezed up the hill, with her trainer saying that she almost trains herself.

Then at last, it was the turn of racing’s Queen of the turf, Enable. She smoothly made her way up Warren Hill with hundreds of cameras busy clicking away. And then she was gone, on what might be her last British appearance in public. Enable of course has one chapter left to complete, in her bid to land an historic third Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe victory. I spoke briefly with John Gosden before and then in more detail with Lord Grimthorpe who was pleased with her effort. He was also looking forward to the forthcoming run of Siskin, in the Middle Park Stakes, on the Rowley Mile. From Warren Hill, I made may way to The Severals, where I bumped into ex-footballer Kevin Phillips, just another racing fan in town!

Then it was on up to Snailwell Road and Prestige Place, home of Marco Botti. The immaculate yard looked resplendent in the sunshine and Marco is very much looking forward to the sales and next year. Next door to Marco is the yard of Hugo Palmer, at the famous Kremlin House. It was once again a privilege to see my old friend Gifted Master, who was his usual sociable self ! The imposing Mootasadir looked magnificent – and whilst initially reluctant to come and say hello, Emma-Jayne, who dotes on him, managed to coax him into the light.

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REVIEW NEWMARKET OPEN WEEKEND

Then it was time to meet the exciting Powerful Breeze – recent winner of the May Hill Stakes at Doncaster – and still unbeaten. Not quite what I was expecting! If there is a vacant slot in Strictly Come Dancing, then Powerful Breeze could fill it! She stood there, with her back turned, on three legs, with her hind leg pointed and tapping the floor and she grooved! Eventually she did turn around and was a very sweet filly – but what a character! Next on my tour was a visit to Beverley House, from where John Berry, former Mayor, television guest presenter and trainer, is based, on Exeter Road. There was an instant warm welcome from Blakeney and Gus. AKA Emma’s Kerry Blue Terrier and John’s Dalmatian. Roy Rocket was of course very much in demand and it was brilliant to meet Delatite and Kryptos, who should be out soon, two years after the setback that prevented him from running in the Cambridgeshire Handicap. From John’s stables, my tour headed to Hamilton Road and the growing Southgate Stables location of Amy Murphy. Amy’s stables are always popular and there were plenty of people wanting a look at Grade One winner Kalashnikov,

who looked lean and ready to race, after a summer at grass. Amy is hoping to start him back in the Old Roan Chase at Aintree, in October. Thegreatestshowman was back in his stable after a super run at Great Yarmouth, while Mercian Prince is slowly back in training after a summer operation. He is distinctive, as he has a large lump in his forehead, giving him the impression of a bay unicorn! Also at Amy’s yard was the wonderful Mercian King, who gave her the very first winner of her career. Mercian King has suffered what may be a career-ending injury but owes nobody a thing and has a happy loving home for life. He is a beautiful horse and was very friendly. Lazarus proved very friendly too, although his party trick was to laugh and he has been known to escape his box! It was great to visit Amy’s yard – the last time I was there she was still not full moved-in! My final stop was at Trillium Place, home of David Simcock. It was great to see a familiar face in Michael on welcoming duties and the first star on show was Breton Rock. I got to see the exciting Spanish Mission, a recent winner at Belmont Park, of whom great things are hoped next year.

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NEWMARKET OPEN WEEKEND REVIEW Desert Encounter, fresh from a Group Three victory the previous day at Newbury, was quiet but friendly and the mighty Sheikhzayedroad, sometimes a monkey by all accounts, but a happy hack nowadays in retirement, was also happy to say hello. A quick stop at Palace House, home of the National Horse Racing Museum, where I bumped into friends and saw youngsters having a go on the racing simulator. That same engagement was in abundance at every yard, where the horses were all impeccably behaved and where people of all ages were able to stroll freely and to pet and make a fuss of these horses. I am sure that this is a good experience for the horses too â&#x20AC;&#x201C; getting used to crowds and strangers. It is educational for the public and a chance to see how much love and work goes into the upkeep of these magnificent creatures. But it also gives an insight into their individual characters. So in summary we saw world beaters and lesser lights. All were greatly loved and appreciated, as was the effort from everyone involved in making this event a success. Bringing racing to the people and making it all about the horse is the best form of marketing racing has. The Henry Cecil Open Weekend brings what may be perceived by the uninitiated as an exclusive sport, right into the open. There were so many more things I wanted to see and do. Next year! Huge thanks must go to The Jockey Club, the 21 trainers, Charlie Fellowes who played such an important part, Johnno Spence Communications, Discover Newmarket and sponsors Tattersalls. This is a special weekend and one which will have created special, unique memories, for everyone who attended. Websites to visit thehenrycecilopenweekend.co.uk charliefellowesracing.co.uk amymurphyracing.com davidsimcock.co.uk discovernewmarket.co.uk www.hugopalmer.com www.johnberryracing.com www.jsccomms.co.uk marcobotti.co.uk palacehousenewmarket.co.uk tattersalls.com thejockeyclub.co.uk course-specialist.co.uk

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October 2019

First class award winning horse racing photography since 1977 www.healyracing.ie Contact Pat Healy on +353 (0)86 877 6855 or email pat@healyracing.ie

REVIEW IRISH CHAMPIONS WEEKEND

IRISH CHAMPIONS WEEKEND REVIEW Image supplied by HRI

Saturday BLISSFUL GETS UP IN THE FINAL STRIDE AT LEOPARDSTOWN Blissful gave Ballydoyle the opening winner on Irish Champions Weekend, with a last gasp victory in the Listed Ballylinch Stud Irish EBF Ingabelle Stakes at Leopardstown. Irish Champions Weekend got underway with nine promising fillies lining up for this sevenfurlong contest. Nurse Barbara took them along from Blissful and Sailing South. Into the home straight, Colin Keane asked Nurse Barbara for more and she willingly lengthened, with Blissful trying hard to close. For a while she failed to get on terms, but late on, Blissful made ground hand over fist for Ryan Moore. The pair flashed past the post together and after a brief delay, the Aidan O’Brien filly Bliessful was called the winner. Pronouncement came home third.

MOGUL SCORES AT LEOPARDSTOWN Mogul strengthened trainer Aidan O’Brien’s two year-old hand with victory in the Group Two KPMG Champions Juvenile Stakes. A race which has thrown up Zoffany, Australia and Madhmoon, brought together seven two yeaolds over a mile. There was plenty of early jostling and it was Cormorant who won the battle for the lead from Howling Wolf. At the home turn, Cormorant was challenged by Howling Wolf, with Mogul and Sinawann next.

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IRISH CHAMPIONS WEEKEND REVIEW But in the home straight, Mogul and Ryan Moore stormed into a clear lead, moving two lengths clear. Sinawann closed the leader down late on, but was still a length behind Mogul at the line, with Agitare taking third. Mogul, a son of Galileo, had impressed in a Curragh maiden in late August.

NORWAY MAKES IT A BALLYDOYLE TREBLE

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MAGICAL A CLINICAL WINNER IN THE IRISH CHAMPION STAKES

Norway finished with best effect to land the Group Three Paddy Power Betting Shops Stakes. Nine horses contested this 1 ½ mile race. Guaranteed was well away but it was Blenheim Palace who pressed on from Kelly’s Dino, while Leo De Fury stumbled. Settling down, Blenheim Palace led Kelly’s Dino by a length. Blenheim Palace led into the home straight but a wall of horses came to challenge, with Norway coming to take the lead in the final furlong. Seamie Heffernan conjured a fine run from the big white-faced colt who moved a length clear of Buckhurst and Mount Everest, to give Aidan O’Brien a treble on the card.

Magical had every move covered and proved far too good for her rivals in the Group One Qipco Irish Champion Stakes. Eight went to post for this 1 ½ mile contest, one of the highlights of Irish Champions Weekend. Hunting Horn, as expected, was straight into the lead and soon built up a two-length advantage over Magical and Elarqam. There was little change in the order, with Anthony Van Dyke settled in fourth and Madhmoon next. Hunting Horn took the octet out of the back straight with a length lead over Magical and Elarqam but Ryan Moore were travelling the best as they turned for home. Magical went on with Elarqam under pressure. From further back and down the outside, Headman began to stay on. But Magical had taken two lengths out of the field and never threatened to come back to them, passing the post much the best. Second home was Magic Wand, with Anthony Van Dyke third. The Japanese mare Deirdre, had no luck in running and flew home for fourth. But this opening afternoon of the Longines Irish Champions Weekend belonged to Aidan O’Brien, who was enjoying a four-timer on the card and trained the first three home in this contest.

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REVIEW IRISH CHAMPIONS WEEKEND

SPACE TRAVELLER LANDS SPONSORS MONEY IN THE BOOMERANG STAKES

Space Traveller came fast and late to deny Matterhorn in a thrilling finish to the Group Two Clipper Logistics Boomerang Stakes. Nine contested this one-mile event. The race got underway with Pincheck, Lancaster House and Matterhorn all vying for the lead with Surrounding. It was Matterhorn who won that battle initially, but Pincheck, racing next to the rails, pressed on with Ancient Spirit racing out wide. Heading to the home turn, Pincheck led from Ancient Spirit and Turberry Isle, with Matterhorn between runners. Oisin Murphy made his move on Matterhorn, early in the straight and came to tackle Pincheck, who battled on. But to the outside, Space Traveller overhauled them all, becoming embroiled in an exciting battle with Matterhorn in the final half a furlong. But Billy Lee and Space Traveller got up narrowly to beat Matterhorn, with the pair pulling two lengths clear of Pincheck and the staying on Suedois. The Richard Fahey trained Space Traveller, owned by the sponsors of the race, had previously landed the Group Three Jersey Stakes at Royal Ascot.

IRIDESSA WINS A THIRD GROUP ONE IN THE MATRON STAKES Iridessa bounced back from a disappointing Irish Oaks run to land the Group One Coolmore “Fastnet Rock” Matron Stakes. Seven fillies took part in this one-mile contest, including last year’s winner Laurens. At the break it was Skitter Scatter and Hermosa who were fastest away, but Laurens was soon into her stride and in front by a length from this year’s 1,000 Guineas winner. Laurens continued to lead Hermosa and reached the home turn with a ½ a length lead, with the pair a length clear of Skitter Scatter and Iridessa. The front pair came under pressure with two furlongs to run and it was Hermosa who edged in front. However, Iridessa and Just Wonderful swept to the outside and the former went on for Wayne Lordan. Iridessa kept up a sustained gallop in the final furlong and whilst Hermosa refused to wilt, she could not peg back the leader. At the line Iridessa was about ¾ of a length clear of Hermosa, with Just Wonderful closing in third and Laurens fourth. The Joseph O’Brien-trained Iridessa was winning her third career Group One, having previously landed the Fillies’ Mile and Pretty Polly Stakes.

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IRISH CHAMPIONS WEEKEND REVIEW

Sunday TARNAWA MAKES IN FOUR IN A ROW FOR WELD IN THE BLANDFORD STAKES Dermot Weld’s amazing record was maintained as Tarnawa landed the Group Two Moyglare “Jewels” Blandford Stakes at the Curragh. Eight fillies lined-up for this 1 ¼ mile race. From the start it was Lady Wannabe who led from Credenza and Tarnawa. Settling down, Lady Wannabe was joined by Credenza, with Tarnawa third and then Trethias and Nausha. Credenza just about shaded the lead from Lady Wannabe, as the octet moved to the home bend, with Tarnawa on their heels and then Trethias and Chablis. Tarnawa came with her run at the two-furlong pole and hit the front, with Credenza battling on and Goddess making ground from a long way back. Tarnawa responded well for Chris Hayes though and ran on well to win by a couple of lengths from Goddess, who perhaps had too much ground to make up from out wide. Credenza kept on well for third, with Waitingfortheday another to come from off the pace in fourth. Tarnawa was giving trainer Dermot Weld a fourth successive win in the Blandford Stakes.

FAIRYLAND STORMS TO VICTORY IN THE FLYING FIVE STAKES Fairyland came back to her Group One best to land the Derristown Stud Flying Five Stakes. Eleven horses took part in this five-furlong dash. The race got underway with habitual frontrunner Caspian Prince soon leader Soldier’s Call and Soffia, while So Perfect and Invincible Army also raced prominently. Caspian Prince continued to bowl along in front but Fairyland struck the front with a furlong to race, with only stable mate So Perfect able to challenge. Late on So Perfect edged to join Fairyland, but the latter, under Ryan Moore, just held on by a short head, with Invincible Army coming home a couple of lengths behind in third, ahead of Soldier’s Call. Trainer Aidan O’Brien was enjoying a one-two as a follow-up to his terrific opening day of the Irish Champions Weekend. Fairyland had previously won the Group One Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket last autumn.

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REVIEW IRISH CHAMPIONS WEEKEND

Image supplied by Darley Europe

LOVE KEEPS THE BALLYDOYLE JUGGERNAUT ROLLING IN THE MOYGLARE STUD STAKES Love showed a nice turn of foot to land the Group One Moyglare Stud Stakes. Nine juvenile fillies contested this significant seven-furlong event. Tango and Soul Search were the early leaders. This two continued to lead Love as they reached the three-furlong marker. The front pair quickened and Soul Search hit the front racing to the furlong pole, but Love and Ryan Moore quickened well. Daahyeh sprouted wings to the wide outside, but the Aidan O’Brien filly Love had first run to hold on by ¾ of a length, with So Wonderful flying home for a close third. O’Brien’s magnificent weekend continued with Love, a daughter of Galileo, winning for the third time in her career.

PINATUBO ANNIHILATES HIS NATIONAL STAKES RIVALS If Irish Champions Weekend had needed an electrifying performance it got one, as Pinatubo turned what had been billed as a big showdown with Armory, into a procession. He simply annihilated his rivals in the Group One Goffs Vincent O’Brien National Stakes. Eight two year-old colts lined-up for Ireland’s big juvenile race of the year over seven furlongs. Arizona and Geometrical took the field along in the early stages, Settling down, Geometrical held a narrow lead from Monoski and Arizona. But with two furlongs to run, Pinatubo smoothly moved into the lead, with Arizona trying in vain to close. But Pinatubo burst clear in the style of an outstanding champion, leaving his rivals for dead in the final furlong.

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IRISH CHAMPIONS WEEKEND REVIEW William Buick had little to do, as the son of Dubawi careered away to win by ten lengths, with Armory winning the scrap for second place with Arizona. But in reality, there was only one horse in this race and Charlie Appleby said afterwards that Pinatubo is the best two year-old he has trained. He commented “A huge credit must go to the whole team at home. They have done a fantastic job looking after this horse and it is great for His Highness Sheikh Mohammed to have a home-bred like Pinatubo doing what he is doing. “We worked him with some nice horses midweek just to give myself a bit of confidence, more so than the horse. He is the best horse that I have ever had as a two-year-old, there is no doubt about it. “He is exciting and it is great for the team, for all the guys here. He was raised at Kildangan Stud, so it is great for all the guys there as well. I am just in a very lucky position to be able to train him. “Today’s race has ridden like a piece of work, so I see no reason why Pinatubo won’t potentially turn up in the Group One Darley Dewhurst Stakes. Those are nice discussions to have with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and the team.” William Buick said “I haven’t ridden a twoyear-old like Pinatubo. Quorto was very impressive

when he won this race last year – he beat a subsequent Derby winner – but the performance that Pinatubo put in today was special. “We saw him do something similar at Goodwood but today was a proper Group One and it was a hugely exciting performance. It felt as good as it looked. “He is a very relaxed individual at home, a very laid-back horse, which is great. He has a great temperament and adapts to all different circumstances, whether it be in a race or anything that can be thrown at him. “He was mightily impressive today. He just keeps lengthening and quickening right up to the winning line. He is a hugely exciting horse.”

SEARCH FOR A SONG WINS THE IRISH ST LEGER A daring mid-race move by Chris Hayes seemed to make the difference, as Search For A Song won the Group One Comer Group International Irish St Leger. Ten took part in the final Irish Classic of the season, over 1 ¾ miles.

Image supplied by HRI

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October 2019

REVIEW IRISH CHAMPIONS WEEKEND Cross Counter broke best but it was soon Master Of Reality who led from Southern France and Latrobe. Master Of Reality continued to lead and moved a couple of lengths ahead of Latrobe, with a similar gap to Twilight Payment and then came Search For A Song. Chris Hayes and Search For A Song moved up into the lead and quickly built up a three-length lead approaching the home bend. Search For A Song soon had Master Of Reality under pressure and reached the furlong pole clear of that horse, with Southern France trying to close and Kew Gardens flying home late on. But Search For A Song had first run and passed the post well clear of Kew Gardens, with Southern France just holding on from Cross Counter for third. Search For A Song was giving trainer Dermot Weld an eighth triumph in the Irish St Leger.

RESPECT IN RACING By Nick Kennedy Once again the racing community showed just what a warm, generous and respectful community it is. Irish Champions Weekend sets out to showcase the best of the best in equine talent. It exhibits the talent of the here and now and of future superstars. Pinatubo was utterly sensational. I’m still shaking my head in disbelief at what I witnessed. Magical got her deserved day in the sun. So many more of our superstars created exceptional memories for owners, trainers and fans alike. The here, the now and the future took at step back at 4.50pm today to pay homage to the past. The racing community was out in force to support the Pat Smullen Champions race for cancer trials

AP MCCOY AND QUIZICAL WIN THE PAT SMULLEN CHARITY RACE AP McCoy showed all his old tenacity to drive home Quizzical for a special win for a thrilled Sheila Lavery in the Pat Smullen Champions Race for Cancer Trials Ireland. “I can’t believe they left McCoy alone in front,” Smullen laughed, adding that he was “overcome” by the race. Legendary former commentator Dessie Scahill called them home, while the other riders taking part were Ruby Walsh, Johnny Murtagh, Charlie Swan, Joseph O’Brien, Ted Durcan, Paul Carberry, Richard Hughes and Kieren Fallon.

Image supplied by HRI

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IRISH CHAMPIONS WEEKEND REVIEW Ireland. McCoy, Walsh, Swan, Murtagh, Hughes, Carberry, O’Brien, Fallon and Durcan. A list of who’s who from the annals of racing. Champions among champions putting on the boots for one more adrenaline filled battle to the line. These champions demonstrating the respect and high regard that is felt for Pat Smullen at a time when he battles to win his race with cancer. The race served up a spectacle for all in attendance. The thrill of seeing McCoy, Walsh, Carberry and Murtagh battle it out in the final furlong was a sight to behold. Cheers echoed out across the Curragh as 20time champion jockey AP McCoy pulled out all the stops on the Sheila Lavery trained Quizical to fend off the 3 pronged challenge from messrs Walsh, Carberry and Murtagh. The Champ was back. His ever-willing partner repelling all in behind.

The race showed just what being a racing fan means as every jockey and horse were cheered back into the parade ring. The ring was 3 and 4 deep with people trying to catch a glimpse of their heroes. AP McCoy even managed a Dettori flying dismount with added backside to soggy ground for the extra touch. The jockeys all gave their time to pose for pictures, selfies and sign autographs for the gathered fans. It truly was a race to remember. This race was for Pat. It was great to see him at the races. He is a battler and he will win his race. His embrace with AP posing with Quizical did bring a tear to my eye as the emotions of the day came to the fore. Racing came together yet again today as it does time and time again. It showed support and respect to the past knowing that the now and the future will thrive and all battles that are there to be fought will be won.

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October 2019

NEWS IRISH RACING

ROMANISED BACK TO WINNING WAYS IN THE MINSTREL STAKES

STAR CATCHER MAKES ALL FOR IRISH OAKS GLORY

Romanised put a couple of unlucky runs behind him to land the Group Two Paddy Power Minstrel Stakes at the Curragh. There were plenty of familiar names among the ten runners, for this seven furlong race. All The King’s Men quickly asserted in this race and moved into a four length lead over Hey Gaman. Racing to the two-furlong pole, Hey Gaman and Frankie Dettori came to challenge the leader and soon went on. Romanised came out of the pack under Billy Lee, to challenge and pressed on inside the final furlong to win by about a length from Hey Gaman. Safe Voyage came home a close third and this trio were clear of Gordon Lord Byron. Ken Condon’s four year-old Romanised, was wining for the first time since his Irish 2,000 Guineas victory, on the same course, in May 2018.

Star Catcher and Frankie Dettori seized the initiative from the start to win the Group One Kerrygold Irish Oaks at the Curragh. The fourth Irish Classic of 2019, attracted a field of eight three year-old fillies, over 1 ½ miles. As the race got underway, it was Peach Tree who broke best and led from Star Catcher, who pressed on. Settling down, Frankie Dettori and the Ribblesdale Stakes winner Star Catcher held a length lead over Peach Tree and Trethias, with Manuela De Vega next and then Fleeting, Search For A Song, Iridessa and Pink Dogwood. Turning into the long home straight, Star Catcher still held a narrow lead from Peach Tree, with Trethias and Manuela De Vega matching strides. The leader lengthened early in the straight and had her rivals in trouble, with Peach Tree dogged but losing ground.

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IRISH RACING NEWS

Image supplied by Newbury Racecourse

With a furlong to run, Star Catcher was clear of Fleeting, with Pink Dogwood closing but labouring to do so. In the final half a furlong, Donnacha O’Brien got a response from Fleeting and closed hand over fist, but Dettori had plenty in hand to win a shade snugly on Star Catcher. Fleeting finished about three parts of a length second, with a wide gap back to Pink Dogwood and Search For A Song. Star Catcher had been supplemented for the race and was giving trainer John Gosden a third triumph in it.

SOFFIA STORMS TO SAPPHIRE STAKES VICTORY Soffia looked like a Group One crack might be next, as she slammed her rivals in the Group Two Friarstown Stud Sapphire Stakes at the Curragh.

Nine ran in this five-furlong sprint, including a strong contingent of five British-trained horses. As the race got underway, it was Rapid Reaction who lived up to his name, but was soon passed by Caspian Prince. The veteran Caspian Prince blasted to the two furlong pole with a two length leaf over Rapid Reaction and Equilateral, with nothing else really getting involved at that point. Caspian Prince folded inside the final furlong however and it was Soffia and Declan McDonogh, who emerged from the pack to the stands’ side and stormed into the lead. The Eddie Lynam-trained four year-old filly, sprinted right away from her rivals for a brilliant victory. At the line, Soffia was a good three lengths clear of El Astronaute and Garrus.

STRAIGHT FORWARD SUCCESS FOR RED TEA Red Tea ran out a comprehensive winner of the Group Two Kilboy Estate Stakes at the Curragh. With three non-runners, just five fillies and mares took part over the nine furlongs. From the break Annie Fior reared up and somewhat hampered Goddess. Settling down, Red Tea and Donnacha O’Brien led Annie Fior, with Goddess third and then Chablis and Coral Beach.

Image supplied by Tattersalls Ireland

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NEWS IRISH RACING There was little change in the order, as the quintet turned for home, with Red Tea still holding the call over Annie Fior and Goddess, who was a little short of room. With a furlong to run, Red Tea moved two lengths clear, with Goddess coming through for second, but unable to close on the winner. Annie Fior came home third. Red Tea was giving O’Brien and his brother, trainer Joseph, a double on the card.

BORICE RALLY LANDS THE GALWAY PLATE FOR GORDON ELLIOTT There was a dramatic finish to the Galway Plate, as Borice sprouted wings late on to win going away from the brave top weight Black Corton. A field of 22 contested this two-mile 6 ½ furlong chase. Peregrine Run and Pravalaguna were the leaders as the field charged down the home straight and past the stands and towards the first fence. Pravalaguna led from Azzuri and Movewiththetimes as they all cleared the first, but Poker Party unseated at the second fence. Assuri joined the mare Pravalaguna, with Black Corton taking closer order at the third. Heading into the back, Azzuri and Black Corton went on, with Pylonthepressure third and then Pravalaguna and Modus. Back into the straight, the two English trained horses, Azzuri and Black Corton took the field along, while Yorkhill had lost his rider earlier on. Azzuri pressed on into a two-length lead over Black Corton, with a similar distance to Pylonthepressure. Further back, Movewiththetimes took a heavy fall. Down the back, Azzuri led Black Corton, with Borice closing four out and Pylonthepressure and Pravalaguna next, followed by Peregrine Run, Mengli Khan and Coney Island. Borice continued to close and Pravalaguna travelled well, as Black Corton went on two from home. Black Corton took the last with a narrow lead and turned for home under Bryony Frost, with Borice under pressure. Black Corton straightened up and responded

well to Frost’s urgings, but the loose Yorkhill hampered their chances. They were challenged to the far side by Peregrine Run and Snugsborough Benny, in an exciting finish. But the decisive move came from the stands’ side, as Luke Dempsey galvanised a rally from Borice, who finished like a train. The Gordon Elliott trained eight year-old careered clear on the run-in, with a close call for second and third between Black Corton and Snugsborough Benny, with the pair finishing in that order. Peregrine Run came home a gallant fourth.

SISKIN LANDS THE PHOENIX STAKES On unfavourable ground, Siskin showed his battling qualities to see off a sustained Ballydoyle challenge and win the Group One Keeneland Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh. Five went to post for this six-furlong contest. From the break it was Royal Lytham who led from Mount Fuji and Monarch Of Egypt. Settling down, there was little change in the order, with Siskin settled in fourth and Think Big sat last of the quintet. With two furlongs to race, Siskin and Colin Keane had moved to the inside and ranged up. Siskin went on and the challenge at the furlong pole came from Monarch Of Egypt. But Siskin responded well for Colin Keane and saw off Monarch Of Egypt’s challenge to win by ¾ of a length, with Royal Lytham a close and staying on third. Siskin is now four from four and was giving trainer Ger Lyons and jockey Colin Keane first Irish Group One victories.

ALPINE STAR TAKES THE DEBUTANTE STAKES Alpine Star got the better of a thrilling tussle to land the Group Two Debutante Stakes at the Curragh. Nine juvenile fillies went to post for this sevenfurlong race.

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IRISH RACING NEWS Windracer took them along through the early stages, with Love tracking her. However, with two furlongs to run, Ryan Moore went on with Love. In behind Alpine Star and Petite Mustique were closing, while Soul Search also drew closer. Petite Mustique went on under Donnacha O’Brien, but Alpine Star and Shane Foley battled to join her on the line, the pair virtually inseparable at first glance. After a photo finish, the Jessica Harrington trained Alpine Star was called home first, ahead of Peite Mustique, with Soul Search less a length further back in third.

ARMORY SECURES FUTURITY STAKES Armory consolidated his reputation with an authoritative win in the Group Two Galileo Irish EBF Futurity Stakes at the Curragh. Eight two year-old colts took part in this important seven-furlong contest. From the break it was Toronto who went on from Iberia and Armory, as Aidan O’Brien horses filled the first three places.

Toronto continued to take them along from Iberia and Armory, with Justifier next. Racing to the two-furlong marker, Iberia came to challenge Toronto, while Armory burst between the pair and moved a length clear. Armory responded well for Ryan Moore and Rebel Tale kept him honest all the way to the line. But Armory, a son of Galileo, was always holding him to land a thirteenth Futurity for trainer Aidan O’Brien, by about a length. Geometrical stayed on well for second, ahead of Roman Turbo in fourth.

MELBOURNE CUP WINNER REKINDLING IS RETIRED Joseph O’Brien paid tribute to his 2017 Melbourne Cup hero Rekindling, describing him as “tough as nails” after it was announced that the five year-old has been retired. The Lloyd Williams-owned Rekindling became the youngest horse to win Australia’s greatest race since Skipton in 1941, giving O’Brien a major success in the early stages of his training career. O’Brien commented: “He stayed in Australia after he won the Melbourne Cup but he was a fantastic servant in his time with us.

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NEWS IRISH RACING “He was as tough as nails, raced often, was very consistent, handled different types of ground, and was just a wonderful horse. “It’s such a special race and it was special to even be taking part. Winning it was just unbelievable, one of the greatest days in racing. “Aside from the biggest day of all in Australia, Rekindling won Group races for us in Ireland too and performed very well.” It is believed that Rekindling is likely to return to Europe to start his stud career.

CHAMPION HURDLE WINNER JEZKI IS RETIRED Former Champion Hurdle winner Jezki, has been retired from racing, at the age of eleven. The JP McManus-owned, Jessica Harringtontrained star landed the 2014 Champion Hurdle, having finished third behind Champagne Fever, in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, the year before.

In all, Jezki ran at five Cheltenham Festivals Barry Geraghty, Jezki’s regular partner, paid tribute to the popular horse: “He was brilliant, I had a great run on him over the years,” said Geraghty. “I won the big novice hurdle at Punchestown on him one year and then obviously the Champion Hurdle when he beat My Tent Or Yours. “He was around in a great age of two-mile hurdlers, like Hurricane Fly, Faugheen and My Tent. He was a brilliant horse. “He clashed with Hurricane Fly so many times. Jessie did a great job with him and he was a great second string for me to ride that year. “Even when he stepped up in trip he won an Aintree Hurdle, so it worked out well. “While he wasn’t quite what he was the last couple of years I won on him at Leopardstown (in March last year) and he was brilliant that day - he had such a great attitude and he was absolutely rapid over a hurdle.”

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October 2019

IRISH RACING NEWS

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

CHAMPION HURDLE WINNER ESPOR D’ALLEN EUTHANIZED This year’s Champion Hurdle winner, Espoir D’Allen, has passed away at the age of just five. The five year-old ran out a 15-length winner at Cheltenham in March, the widest winning margin in the history of the race. Having summered at Martinstown, Espoir D’Allen returned to Gavin Cromwell’s stable this month but suffered a shoulder injury after getting spooked and rearing over, after a routine canter a fortnight ago.

Espoir D’Allen was sent to Fethard Equine Hospital for assessment, but his injury was deemed too sever and the decision was made to put him down on Friday. Cromwell said: “It is with great sadness that we have to announce that Espoir D’Allen had to be put down earlier today. Following a freak accident two weeks ago, he was relocated to Fethard Equine Hospital. John Halley and his veterinary team deemed that it was inhumane to persist with treatment and, on their advice, we made the tough decision.” Espoir D’Allen won nine of his ten starts in his short career.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING

CONCRETE ROSE IN A CLASS OF HER OWN IN THE BELMONT OAKS Concrete Rose ran out a comprehensive winner of the Grade One Belmont Oaks Invitational Stakes at Belmont Park. A field of nine three year-old fillies lined-up for this 1 ¼ mile contest on the turf, including two Aidan O’Brien contenders, the French filly Olendon, the Breeders’ Cup winner Newspaperofrecord and her Churchill Downs rival Concrete Rose. As the race started, it was Jodie who pressed on into the first turn from Concrete Rose and Newspaperofrecord. Jodie took the field into the back stretch with a 1 ½ length lead over Concrete Rose, with Cambier Parc moving third, as Newspaperofrecord raced erratically and lost ground. The Japanese runner Jodie, headed into the far turn still with the lead over Concrete Rose, with Newspaperofrecord pulled out wide to deliver her run. Into the home stretch, Concrete Rose went on under Julien Leparoux and moved three lengths clear of Jodie. From the back, Just Wonderful began to stay on, but the bird had well and truly flown and Concrete Rose passed the line a comfortable four lengths clear. Just Wonderful just got up for second, ahead of Cambier Parc, with a gap back to Jodie in fourth. The George Arnold II trained Concrete Rose is now three from three this season.

HENLEY’S JOY SPRINGS A BELMONT DERBY SHOCK The Mike Maker trained Henley’s Joy was a smooth winner of the Grade One Belmont Derby Invitational Stakes at Belmont Park. Fourteen three year old colts contested this 1 ¼ mile race, including two from Aidan O’Brien’s Ballydoyle stable. From the gates it was an even break, with Henley’s Joy and Social Paranoia among the early leaders – but from out wide, Blenheim Palace came

to join the leaders at the first turn. Settling down and heading into the back stretch, Moon Colony led from Blenheim Palace and this pair raced two lengths clear, with the field well strung out. Moon Colony continued to lead into the far turn, from Blenheim Palace, who came under pressure, but Henley’s Joy led the closing pack. At the top of the stretch, Moon Colony was passed by Social Paranoia, with Henley’s Joy challenging and going on inside the final furlong. Jose Lezcano did not have to get too vigorous to beat Social Paranoia by the best part of a length, with Rockemperor third and Digital Age fourth.

PRESERVATIONIST ROMPS TO VICTORY IN THE SUBURBAN STAKES Preservationist emerged as a potential star, with an emphatic success in the Grade Two Suburban Stakes at Belmont Park. A field of eleven contested this 1 ¼ mile race on the dirt. From the start Realm went on from Preservationist, with Catholic Boy to the inside. Settling down, Preservationist went on and led into the back stretch, but Catholic Boy and Javier Castellano were wise to the move and pressed on. Racing to the far turn, Catholic Boy held a 1 ½ length lead over Preservationist, with Pavel making ground to the outside and Realm. Into the home stretch, Preservationist went back into the lead on the inside and drew away impressively. Junior Alvarado coasted to an easy victory under Preservationist, with four lengths back to Catholic Boy, who had no answer in the home stretch. Pavel took third, ahead of Realm fourth. The James Jerkens trained six year-old Preservationist, was making it three straight wins.

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS

TOO DARN HOT SHOWS HIS BRILLIANT BEST IN THE PRIX JEAN PRAT Too Darn Hot was back to his brilliant best as he slammed his rivals in the Group One Qatar Prix Jean Prat at Deauville. Twelve three year-olds lined-up for this sevenfurlong contest, including last year’s Champion Two Year Old, Too Darn Hot. At the start, Fox Champion was well away, along with Azano, while a group to the stands’ side was led by Watan. With two furlongs to race, Fox Champion set sail for home, but Frankie Dettori had the move covered on Too Darn Hot who streaked clear. Too Darn Hot quickly put daylight between himself and his rivals, winning in the manner he made his trademark in 2018. At the line, Too Darn Hot was about three lengths clear, with Space Blues claiming second and Fox Champion third. Munitions was best of the French trained horses in third. It has been a sensation weekend for trainer John Gosden and jockey Frankie Dettori and getting Too Darn Hot back to his best, will have been one of the highlights.

LACCARIO LANDS THE GERMAN DERBY Laccario looked a smart and improving colt as he landed the Group One German Derby at Hamburg. Sixteen horses went to post for this 1 ½ mile contest. At the start of this 150th renewal, it was the sole English runner Surrey Thunder, who led from Amiro. Amiro pressed on passing the stands, with Magadan in second, fighting for his head. Behind these came Surrey Thunder and then Mojano. Racing down the back, Magadan went on, while Quest The Moon took closer order to the outside. Amiro and Magadan disputed the lead from Surrey Thunder. Swinging into the home straight, it was a wide open race, with Surrey Thunder challenging the leaders. Meanwhile, Andrasch Starke moved Quest The Moon to the wide outside and began to close. But the action unfolded to the inside, where Laccario went on from Django Freeman and this pair went clear. It was Laccario and Eduardo Pedroza who had the best kick and went on to win by about a length from Django Freeman, with Accon, racing down the wide outside, finishing well for third, just ahead of Quest The Moon and Surrey Thunder.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING Laccario, a son of Scalo, trained by Andreas Wohler, was completing a four-timer. www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6X62QdubpQ

SISTERCHARLIE GOES BACK TO BACK IN THE DIANA STAKES Sistercharlie stamped her class on the Grade One Diana Stakes from Saratoga A high class renewal of this nine-furlong contest on the turf, attracted six runners. Thais went into the early lead from Mitchell Road and this pair entered the first turn with an eight-length advantage, with Rushing Falls leading the chase. Heading into the back, Thais kicked on and moved five-lengths ahead of Mitchell Road at a punishing pace.

WAY TO PARIS DENIES MARMELO Way To Paris just held off Highie Morrison’s Marmelo in a spirited finish to the Group Two Prix Maurice de Nieuil at ParisLongchamp. Six horses lined-up for this 1 ¾ mile contest. From the stalls, it was Call The Wind and Holdthasigreen who broke best, with the latter going into his customary lead. With a circuit to run, Holdthasigreen held a 1 ½ length lead over Call The Wind and Way To Paris, with Marmelo to the outside and then Shahnaza and Ligne D’Or. Holdthasigreen took the field down the back straight from Call The Wind and Way To Paris, with the pace not particularly strong. Turning for home, Holdthasigreen led with Call The Wind being asked for his effort and struggling to close, while Way To Paris closed. The race developed into a sprint in the final quarter mile and Way To Paris struck the front for Cristian Demuro. Down the outside, Marmelo closed and this pair became locked in a terrific battle in the final furlong. Marmelo came to join the grey Way To Paris and the pair flashed past the line together. Third home came Ligne D’Or, ahead of Call The Wind. After a photo finish, Way To Paris was called the winner.

JAPAN LANDS THE GRAND PRIX DE PARIS © Coady Photography

The lead began to reduce as they reached the far turn, with the field closing. Rushing Fall and Sistercharlie swept through in the home stretch but the John Velazquez-ridden Sistercharlie went on, and cleared away for a 2 ½ length win over Rushing Fall and Homerique, in a Chad Brown clean sweep. The five year-old Sistercharlie, was winning the Diana Stakes for the second year running.

Japan had to work hard but gained his first Group One success with victory in the Grand Prix de Paris at ParisLongchamp. This important contest saw a field of eight three year-old colts line-up over 1 ½ miles. The race got underway with Jalmoud in front, but Western Australia was soon sent to the front by Wayne Lordan, with his stablemate Japan settled in third. Western Australia continued to make the running, with Jalmoud two lengths back in second and a similar distance to Japan and In Favour,

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS with two lengths then to Roman Candle and the remainder. As the field raced to the home turn, Western Australia still held the lead from Jalmoud and Japan to the outside and In Favour to the inner. The long-time leader set sail for home but was quickly engulfed by Jalmoud and Japan. Japan and Ryan Moore swept into the lead and whilst he didn’t draw away, he had ¾ of a length in hand of Slalom at the line, with Jalmoud a close third and then Roman Candle.

A’ALI IMPRESSIVE IN THE PRIX ROBERT PAPIN

MAXIMUM SECURITY LANDS THE HASKELL INVITATIONAL Maximum Security gained a small level of compensation for his Kentucky Derby disqualification, as he won the Grade One TVG. vom Haskell Invitational Stakes at Monmouth Park. Six three year-olds contested this nine-furlong race on the dirt. From the gates, Luis Saez had Maximum Security prominent, but it was Bethlehem Road who led into the first bend from King For A Day. Heading into the back stretch, Bethlehem Road held a narrow lead from King For A Day and Maximum Security, with Mucho Gusto racing wide and then Spun To Run, with Overfast way off the pace. At the far turn, Maximum Security went on with Mucho Gusto challenging, but King For A Day was short of room as Saez made his move. Maximum Security turned for home with a slender lead, but Mucho Gusto would not go away, the pair pulling well clear of their rivals. But Maximum Security showed plenty of resolve and kept on to win by 1 ¼ lengths, with 8 lengths back to Spun To Run in third.

Image supplied by Goffs

A’ Ali outclassed his rivals to land the Group Two Darley Prix Robert Papin at Deauville. Ten speedy juveniles took part in this 5 ½ furlong dash, dominated in recent years by British-trained winners. From the gates it was My Love’s Passion, to the stands side, who blazed a trail with Istanbul. It was My Love’s Passion who passed the twofurlong point in front but came under pressure late on from A’ Ali. Frankie Dettori had once again judged it right and he eased to the front on the Simon Crisford runner, winning by a snug length from My Love’s Passion. There was a gap back to Jolie, who claimed third place. A’ Ali, a son of the much-missed Society Rock, was following-up on his recent Norfolk Stakes victory at Royal Ascot.

LAURENS HOLDS ON FOR A SIXTH GROUP ONE IN THE PRIX ROTHSCHILD Laurens won a sixth Group One in dramatic style, as she kicked clear and then just held on in the Prix Rothschild at Deauville. A high class ensemble of nine fillies and mares contested this race over the straight mile. At the break it was East who went on, but Laurens soon went to the head of affairs and moved a length ahead of Beshayir and Qabala. Laurens bowled along in front under PJ McDonald, with East tracking the leader as the field split into two groups, with Beshayir leading Obligate and With You to the stands’ side. However, Beshayir was soon after eased up. Laurens came under pressure with two furlongs to run but found more to draw clear of floundering rivals., with East unable to go with the leader.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING

The Karl Burke trained four year-old must have been drawn four lengths clear. But the final furlong became hard work and all of a sudden, with half a furlong to race, Laurens began to tie up dramatically, as With You, miles back early on, suddenly kicked into gear and began to eat up the ground to the stands’ side. As With You closed, Laurens got to the winning line in time to hold on by about half a length, with the previously unbeaten Obligate taking third. The first three drew well clear of Joplin. Burke said afterwards: “She’s good isn’t she? After all that has happened she is a high class filly and still showed us at home that she had plenty of ability. “Fifty yards from the line she had the race won. “They all looked in trouble at halfway and I just hoped PJ would kick early and nick a length or two. She doesn’t do a lot when she is in front. “We’ve got the Prix Jean Romanet and I would be quite happy to run her there if she is fit and well and if we don’t go there I would imagine we would just wait for the Matron Stakes.”

After that performance Australian Bloodstock, who had taken a share in Danceteria, bought out owner Clive Washbourn. Jamie Spencer rode a patient race and produced his mount in the home straight, getting the better of Wai Key Star, in a race where his opponents struggled in stamina-sapping conditions. Menuisier said: “He did it really well as I was slightly worried because of the ground after we got a downpour - the third one of the weekend - an hour before the race. “Jamie settled him in sixth as it looked like they went fast early in the ground and he moved up on the bridle around the bend and the first half of the straight. “When he came off the bridle he took a few strides to quicken but then it was all over. “He is a very good horse and the long-term plan back in May was to target the Cox Plate with two or three Group 1s for him in Australia, including the Mackinnon. “I didn’t enter him in the Juddmonte International as he will need a break and I don’t know if he will have one more run here before going to Australia. “There is the Irish Champion Stakes before he has to go into quarantine but he might go to Australia and have a run there before the Cox Plate but it is a nice problem to have to discuss with the owners.”

DANCETERIA DELIVERS A FIRST GROUP ONE FOR DAVID MENUISIER Trainer David Menuisier is celebrating a first Group One success after Danceteria landed the Grosser Dallmayr-Preis - Bayerisches Zuchtrennen at a very wet Munich. The four-year-old, had run-on well when fourth to Enable in the Eclipse Stakes at Sandown Park on his previous start.

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS

TIZ A SLAM DEFENDS HIS NIJINSKY STAKES CROWN Tiz A Slam dominated proceedings to easily record successive wins in the Grade Two Nijinsky Stakes at Woodbine. Eight went to post for this 1 ½ mile contest on the turf. From the gates it was Pumpkin Rumble and Bourbon Resolution who led, with Arthur Kitt prominent. Settling down, Tiz A Slam went on from Bourbon Resolution and Dark Templar, with Arthur Kitt and Avie’s Mesa, as the field entered the back stretch. Tiz A Slam continued to set the pace with Arthur Kitt moving closer, as they raced to the far turn. Turning for home, Tiz A Slam still held the call from Bourbon Resolution and Arthur Kitt, with Avie’s Mesa next. Straightening up, Tiz A Slam found more, but late on, Sir Sahib and Pumpkin Rumble challenged down the centre of the track. But Tiz A Slam had plenty in reserve to win back to back renewals by four lengths from Sir Sahib and Pumpkin Rumble, with Dark Templar in fourth.

ADVERTISE WINS THE PRIX MAURICE DE GHEEST Advertise ran out a comfortable winner of the Group One Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville. A high-class field of fifteen went to post for this 6 ½ furlong contest, one of the highlights of the Deauville Festival. Among the runners were the last two winners of this race, Brando and Polydream. From the gate, it was an even break and Pretty Pollyanna pressed on into the lead from Fox Champion, as the field raced down the centre of the track. Pretty Pollyanna and Oisin Murphy continued to set the tempo, with Fox Champion in close order and this two ahead of So Perfect, with two furlongs to run. But out wider, Frankie Dettori and Advertise burst through into the lead and went two lengths clear of Pretty Pollyanna.

Image supplied by France Galop

Further back Brando and Space Blues began to close, but Advertise had plenty in hand. At the line, Brando was nearly a length clear of Brando, with Spinning Memories just getting up for third from Space Blues. The Martyn Meade-trained Advertise was giving Dettori a twelfth Group One winner this year. The pair had previously landed the Group One commonwealth Cup, before chasing home Ten Sovereigns in the July Cup.

GOT STORMY WINS A WILD FOURSTARDAVE HANDICAP The track record was smashed as Got Stormy ran out an authoritative winner of the Grade One Fourstardave Handicap at Saratoga. Ten took part in this one-mile contest on the turf, with English interest, courtesy of Simon Crisford’s Ostilio. From the break it was Got Stormy who went on but was quickly passed by Gidu, who sprinted clear. At the half mile, Gidu had moved 10 lengths clear of Made You Look. However, at the home bend, Gidu’s lead had been reduced and he quickly folded as Made You Look went on. But the filly Got Stormy was delivered by Ricardo Santana Jr and she made ground down the outside, hitting the front inside the final furlong and going away. At the line, Mark Casse’s four year-old filly was 2 ½ lengths clear, with Raging Bull just snatching second from Uni.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING

SISTER CHARLIE MAKES IT BACK TO BACK BEVERLY D. STAKES Sister Charlie romped to another impressive win, becoming the first to win the Grade One Beverly D. Stakes at Arlington. Seven fillies and mares contested this 9 ½ furlong race. Thais took the field along and moved seven lengths clear of Awesometank, with another wide gap back to the rest. Reaching the home stretch, Thais turned in five lengths ahead, but her lead was quickly eroded by Awesometank and Florent Geroux. However, just as the William Haggas filly looked set to draw away, Sister Charlie made stealthy progress under John Velasquez Jr and appeared to have another gear, as she eased into the lead. The Chad Brown trained five year-old was not hard-pressed to draw three lengths clear of the English filly, for another imperious victory. Competitionofideas took third place, ahead of the Aidan O’Brien trained Fleeting, who made late progress for fourth.

VALID POINT GETS UP IN THE SECRETARIAT STAKES Valid Point made a last furlong move to win the Grade One Secretariat Stakes at Arlington. Nine lined-up for this one-mile contest on the firm turf. From the gates, Crafty Daddy was soon setting the tempo, with The Last Zip also prominent. Heading into the back stretch, Crafty Daddy, from a wide draw, moved into a ¼ length lead from The Last Zip, with Fog Of War third and Never No More close up. At the top of the stretch, the field bunched and it was The Last Zip who led Crafty Daddy. The two pace-setters continued to duke it out, but Valid Point quickened well to the outside under Javier Castellano and shot into a two-length lead inside the furlong marker. The Chad Brown runner had a high head

carriage but put the race to bed, winning by a length from the fast-finishing Aidan O’Brien runner Van Beethoven. The Last Zip beat his rival Crafty Daddy for third.

BRICKS AND MORTAR CAPTURES THE ARLINGTON MILLION Bricks And Mortar repelled the European challenge to land the Grade One Arlington Million XXXVII at Arlington. From the gates it was the ex-Irish trained Bandua who led under Adam Beschizza, with Hunting Horn settled in second. Racing down the back stretch, Bandua and Hunting Horn continued to lead, with Catcho En Die to the outside and then Magic Wand. Bandua reached the far turn with challengers queuing up. Into the stretch, Magic Wand came to challenge Bandua, but Bricks And Mortar swept into the lead down the outside under Irad Ortiz Jr. Bricks And Mortar won a touch snugly by ¾ of a length from the gallant Magic Wand, with Bandua running a super race in third. On a stellar evening for Chad Brown, Bricks And Mortar was winning a fourth Grade One, having beaten Magic Wand at Gulfstream Park, back in January.

FRENCH KING ON TOP IN GERMANY British raiders Communique and Old Persian had to settle for second and third, as French King landed the Group One Longines Grosser Preis von Berlin at Hoppegarten. Six went to post for this 1 ½ mile contest. Alounak took the sextet along through the early stages, before Communique and Joe Fanning took over. Communique kept on gamely in the home straight, but was headed by French King and Olivier Peslier, at the furlong pole. The two battled out the finish, while Old Persian closed, but was short of room.

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS At the line, it was French King who had enough in reserve and went on to land the spoils by a comfortable length from Communique, with Old Persian just a short head further back in third.

ROMANISED WINS THE PRIX JACQUES LE MAROIS Romanised came back to his best to land a second top flight prize in the Group One Prix du Haras de Fresnay-Le-Buffard Jacques le Marois at Deauville. One of Europe’s top one mile contests took place with a field of eight battling down the Deauville straight. From the break it was Success Days who led with Vocal Music, with the pair soon a couple of lengths ahead of Shaman and Line Of Duty. Settling down, Vocal Music held the overall lead from Success Days and Shaman, who was getting a nice lead. Further back came Line Of Duty, with a break to Romanised and Watch Me, with Study Of Man and Graignes. Shaman was committed inside the two-furlong pole, with Romanised challenging and this pair fought out the finish. But the older Romanised, under Billy Lee, had too many guns for Shaman and moved into a length lead, to land a second Group One contest. Shaman took second, with Line Of Duty finishing fast for third, as Watch Me could only manage fourth. Ken Condon had suggested that last year’s Irish 2,000 Guineas winner, Romanised, was coming back to his best. He had run well in defeat in the Lockinge Stakes and Queen Anne Stakes, before landing the Group Two Minstrel Stakes in late July.

HEADMAN CONSOLIDATES REPUTATION IN DEAUVILLE Headman consolidated his reputation as a fastimproving three year-old, with victory in the Group Two Prix Guillaume d’Ornano Haras du Logis Saint-Germain at Deauville.

Ridden by Jason Watson, the son of Kingman was ridden patiently and still sat last of the runners turning for home. When asked for his effort he quickened smartly to beat Andre Fabre’s Roman Candle, with Flop Shot finishing third. Trainer Roger Charlton said: “They went no pace at all. Jason said he didn’t enjoy the easy ground but his class got him through and I think he was always getting there. “No horse has come from off the pace all day but it was a very good effort. I’m thrilled with him. He’s grown up a lot, he’s a proper horse and, if all goes well, the Irish Champion Stakes will probably be next.”

TROPBEAU TOO GOOD IN THE PRIX DU CALVADOS Tropbeau looked a potentially smart juvenile filly as she ran out a clear winner of the Group Two Shadwell Prix du Calvados at Deauville. A field of four two year-old fillies contested this seven-furlong race. From the break it was Walk In Marrakesh and William Buick, who set the tempo from Tropbeau, who failed to settle, while Schwesterherz raced between the pair and Marieta raced last. The leader lengthened at the two-furlong pole, but Tropbeau moved ominously well and moved into the lead. Marieta threw down a challenge but Tropbeau was always holding her and won by an easy couple of lengths, with Walk In Marrakesh finishing third. The Andre Fabre trained Tropbeau, a daughter of Showcasing, was making it three successive victories.

TEREBELLUM IMPRESSES IN THE PRIX DE LA NONETTE Terebellum looked a smart prospect on just her third racecourse start, as she ran out a convincing winner of the Group Two Prix de la Nonette at Deauville. A field of eight three year-old fillies took part in this 10-furlong race.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING Platane was well away and the early leader, but Divine Image and William Buick soon took upthe running from Terebellum. The Godolphin filly Divine Image, continued to lead, with Platane still prominent to the inside. Buick bustled Divine Image along entering the home straight, but she failed to shake off her rivals, with Suphala going on, but quickly gathered by Terebellum. The John Gosden-trained filly quickened well under Mickael Barzalona and moved two lengths clear. Mutamakina stayed on for second, with Cartiem third.

DUNBAR ROAD DOMINATES IN THE ALABAMA STAKES Dunbar Road was a clear cut winner of the the Grade One Alabama Stakes at Saratoga. A field of nine three year-old fillies went to post for this 10-furlong race on the dirt. From the break it was Dunbar Road to the inside who lead as the field raced through the slop and the rain fell. Into the first turn, Champagne Anyone held a narrow lead with Ulele going on as they went into the back stretch. Champagne Anyone and Ulele continued to vie for the lead at the far turn. The pair battled into the home stretch with Point Of Honor challenging out wide. But Dunbar Road and Street Band quickly pressed on, with the former kicking on in the final furlong to win by 2 ½ lengths from Point Of Honor who just wrestled second from Street Band. Dunbar Road was winning for the fourth time in five races and giving trainer Chad Brown yet another major winner.

BRILLIANT HIGHER POWER LIFTS THE TVG PACIFIC CLASSIC Higher Power stormed to an emphatic victory in the Grade One TVG Pacific Classic Stakes at Del Mar. A field of ten horses contested this important 10-furlong race.

Quip and War Story were prominent from the gate, with Higher Power settled in third. It was Quip who led the runners into the first turn, with Higher Power moving second and then Mongolian Groom. That was the order as they headed into the back stretch, with Quip half a length up on Higher Power. As they raced to the far turn, Flavien Prat moved into the lead on Higher Power and had then all on the stretch as he made the home stretch turn. In the home stretch, Higher Power extended in impressive style and never faced a threat. At the wire, Higher Power was 5 ¼ lengths clear of Draft Pick and Mongolian Groom.

CAMBIER PARC LANDS THE DEL MAR OAKS Cambier Parc completed a Grade One double on the evening for trainer Chad Brown, as she won the Grade One Del Mar Oaks. A field of thirteen three year-old fillies lined up for this 9-furlong contest on the turf. Raymundos Secret took them along with the grey Keeper Ofthe Stars. At the top of the stretch, Dogtag challenged Raymundos Secret and Keeper Ofthe Stars. But the significant action was developing three lengths back and down the centre of the track, as the ex-William Haggas filly Hidden Message and Cambier Parc, began to hit their strides. The two quickened well to sweep past their rivals and it was Cambier Parc, under John Velazquez, who had the better turn of foot and went on to win by 1 ¼ lengths. Lady Prancealot came home third.

DAME MALLIOT LEAVES IT LATE TO LAND THE PRIX DE POMONE Dame Malliot was a dramatic last gasp winner of the Group Two Darley Prix de Pomone at Deauville. A field of ten fillies and mares took part in this 12 ½ furlong race. As the stalls burst open, it was Dame Malliot who led with Peach Tree.

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS Passing the winning post, Peach Tree went on, with a full circuit in front of the runners. Peach Tree set a good tempo and moved into a 1 ½ length lead from Dame Malliot and Love So Deep, with Abadan next. Peach Tree extended her lead to 2 ½ lengths heading down the back straight, travelling well. Gradually her rivals closed as they approached the home straight, with Love So Deep moving off the rail and moving between Peach Tree and Dame Malliot. Love So Deep led into the straight, with Dame Malliot challenging and Klassique staying on into third. But Love So Deep found plenty in the final furlong and looked to have things sewn up. However, Frankie Dettori and Dame Malliot closed dramatically in the dying strides and it was desperately close on the line. After a photo finish, the Ed Vaughan-trained Dame Malliot was announced as the winner from the John Egan-ridden Love So Deep, with Klassique taking third, as British-trained runners recorded a clean-sweep.

EARTHLIGHT WINS A SECOND PRIX MORNY FOR FABRE The Godolphin colt Earthlight quickened well in unsuitably soft ground, to land the Group One Darley Prix Morny at Deauville. A fascinating field of eight juveniles went to post for this six-furlong race, including three Royal Ascot winners and two unbeaten French runners. From the break it was Raffle Prize who led and quickly moved two lengths clear of Golden Horde, with Arizona up with the pace and Earthlight tucked just behind. Raffle Prize continued to lead and Arizona back-pedalled. Raffle Prize kept up the gallop and was challenged with 1 ½ furlongs to race by Golden Horde, but saw off that danger. However, Earthlight and Mickael Barzalona emerged as the big danger. Earthlight edged into the lead and while Raffle Prize battled on, the son of Shamardal was always holding on, to win by about half a length.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING The front two pulled clear of Golden Horde in third, suggesting the first two might be exceptional. The Andre Fabre trained Earthlight was making it four wins from as many starts. He was giving the master trainer just a second victory in the prix Morny – his previous winner having been the turf great Zafonic. Image supplied by France Galop

CORONET WINS A SECOND GROUP ONE

Image supplied by France Galop

Coronet showed determination to land the Group One Darley Prix Jean Romanet at Deauville. Nine fillies and mares contested this ten-furlong race. At the off it was Wild Illusion who led from Red Tea, with Coronet racing third. Down the back, Wild Illusion held the overall advantage from Red Tea, with Coronet and With You next, tracked by Musis Amica and Worth Waiting. The field raced off the rail and Wild Illusion continued to set the tempo, as they swung wide into the home straight and sprinted. Coronet went into the lead for Frankie Dettori and moved a length clear. Despite having an awkward head carriage, Coronet kept up the gallop to repel With You, with Red Tea taking third. Trainer John Gosden had voiced concerns about the ground for Coronet, but her class prevailed as she made it back to back Group One victories.

MARMELO ON TOP IN THE PRIX KERGORLAY Marmelo was given a patient ride and quickened well to land the Group Two Darley Prix Kergorlay at Deauville. Eight horses took part in this one mile, sevenfurlong race. There was a reluctance from all of the jockeys to set the pace and eventually it was Mille Et Mille who went on from Haky and Pallasator. Heading into the back straight, Mille Et Mille continued to lead from Haky, with Khan to the inside and then Pallasator and Lillian Russell. Turning for home, Mille Et Mille still had the lead with Haky in his slipstream, while Marmelo took closer order under Christophe Soumillon. Mille Et Mille battled on, but Marmelo, racing down the centre of the track, hit the front inside the furlong marker. To the inside, Call The Wind made a fight of it, but the Hughie Morrison trained Marmelo held off his rival by about ¾ of a length, with a gap back to Haky and Mille Et Mille.

MITOLE IMPRESSES IN THE FOREGO STAKES Mitole dominated in the Grade One Forego Stakes at Saratoga. Six went to post for this seven furlong race on the dirt. From the break it was Mitole who led from Promises Fulfilled and Killiybegs Captain. Mitole was joined by Promises Fulfilled and this pair moved 2 ½ lengths clear.

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS Promises Fulfilled inched into a narrow lead at the far turn, as the field bunched. Mitole quickly went on at the top of the stretch and powered clear impressively. At the line, Mitole and Ricardo Santana Jr were three lengths clear of Firenze Fire, with Killybegs Captain third.

COME DANCING WALTZES TO VICTORY IN THE BALLERINA STAKES The aptly-named Come Dancing led her rivals a merry dance as she waltzed away to a 3 ½ length victory in the Grade One Ketel One Ballerina Stakes at Saratoga. Five fillies and mares took part in this sevenfurlong race on the dirt. It was Mia Mischief who led early on, but Separationofpowers soon took over. Racing down the backstretch, the field were bunched, with Separationofpowers narrowly leading Mia Mischief and Come Dancing. Separationofpowers faded on the home bend and Come Dancing straightened up and stormed clear under Javier Castellano. At the line, Come Dancing had pulled a long way clear of Dawn The Destroyer and Special Relativity.

MIND CONTROL WINS A THREEWAY BATTLE AT SARATOGA Mind Control inched to victory in a desperate three-way finish to the Grade One H Jerkens Stakes at Saratoga. Nine three year-olds ran in this seven-furlong dash on the dirt. Shancelot soon led from Call Paul and Twelfth Labour. Into the far turn, Shancelot still held the lead with Call Paul sat nicely in second and then a three length gap to Mind Control. At the top of the stretch, Shancelot kicked on and looked booked for victory at the furlong pole. However, down the outside, Rowayton, Mind

Control and Hog Creek Hustle all dramatically closed on the leader. The four horses finished together at the wire, with Mind Control and John Velazquez winning by a nose from Hog Creek Hustle, with Shancelot a further nose back in third.

SIGNIFICANT FORM DENIES INDIAN BLESSING AT SARATOGA Significant Form narrowly denied Ed Walker’s Indian Blessing from a huge pay day in the Grade Two Woodford Reserve Ballston Spa at Saratoga. Nine fillies and mares contested this turf race over a mile and half a furlong. Conquest Hardcandy was the leader into the first turn, with Scottish Jig and Starship Jubilee giving chase. Into the backstretch, Conquest Hardcandy held a length lead from the former John Gosden-trained Scottish Jig. At the far turn, it was still Conquest Hardcandy with a handy lead, Significant Form taking closer order. The long-time leader kicked for home in the home stretch and looked set for victory. But in the final furlong the complexion of the race changed, as John Velazquez and Significant Form wore down the leader and the Ed Walker-trained Indian Blessing burst through on the inside rail. In a tight finish, Significant Form got the verdict by a neck from Indian Blessing, with Starship Jubilee a neck further back in third and Fifty Five a nose fourth.

MIDNIGHT BISOU INCHES TO VICTORY IN THE PERSONAL ENSIGN Midnight Bisou won – but by the narrowest of margins, as she took the Grade One Personal Ensign Stakes at Saratoga. Six fillies and mares took part in this ninefurlong race on the dirt. Coach Rocks took the field along from Elate

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING and She’s A Julie, while Midnight Bisou settled last into the first turn. Down the backstretch, Coach Rocks held a length lead over She’s A Julie, with Elate settled third and then Wow Cat, while Golden Award began to back-pedal. At the far turn, Coach Rocks was under pressure and Elate swept into the lead, chased by Midnight Bisou. Elate was first into the home stretch, while Midnight Bisou raced wide. The pair drew clear and both drifted to the inside rail. Neither would give an inch and flashed past the post together. It was Mike Smith and Midnight Bisou who got the verdict by a nose, with 8 ¾ lengths back to the third, She’s A Julie.

CHAD BROWN AGAIN AS ANNALS OF TIME LANDS THE SWORD DANCER Chad Brown’s remarkable recent run continued as Annals Of Time won a close contest for the Grade One Sword Dancer Stakes at Saratoga. Nine older horses went to post for this 1 ½ mile race on the turf. Tiz Morning was the early leader but Channel Maker went on after about 1 ½ furlongs, chased by Ya Primo. Heading down the home stretch for the first time, Ya Primo went on from Channel Cat and Tiz Morning, with a circuit to race. Channel Cat went on at the home stretch, with Ya Primo and Channel Maker. Down the outside, Sadler’s Joy and Annals Of Time began to improve. With a furlong to race, Annals Of Time and Sadler’s Joy swept through and it was the former, under Javier Castellano, who won, by a neck from Sadler’s Joy, with Channel Cat a couple of lengths further back in third.

CODE OF HONOR LANDS THE TRAVERS STAKES Code Of Honor stormed to victory in the Grade One Travers Stakes at Saratoga. A field of twelve lined-up for this important tenfurlong race on the dirt. From the gates it was Tacitus who led, before Mucho Gusto pressed on with a quarter of a mile run. Down the back stretch, Mucho Gusto continued to lead from Tacitus and Tax, while Highest Honors sat fourth. Heading to the half mile pole, Tacitus regained the lead from Mucho Gusto and there was a length back to Tax and a gap to Highest Honors and Code Of Honor. Into the home stretch, Tacitus led, but Mucho Gusto headed him, while Code Of Honor and John Velazquez continued to close to the outside. The three horses were almost in a line, before Code Of Honor stretched away in the final furlong. At the line, Code Of Honor was an impressive three-length winner from Tacitus, with Mucho Gusto keeping on for third.

PRESERVATIONIST ON TOP IN THE WOODWARD STAKES Preservationist got the run of the race to win a messy contest for the Grade One Woodward Stakes at Saratoga. Eight older horses took part in this dirt contest over nine furlongs. From the break it was Mr Buff who held the lead, with Bal Harbour also prominent. Mr Buff kicked away into a clear lead as they entered the back stretch, with Bal Harbour second and Preservationist racing inside Mongolian Groom. There was little change in the order down the back stretch but at the far turn, Bal Harbour closed on the leader. Into the home stretch, Bal Harbour edged ahead of Mr Biff, with Tom’s D’Etat swopping down the wide outside.

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS Tom’s D’Etat and Bal Harbour battled up the home stretch, while between the two Preservationist and Junior Alvarado surged. Further back, Yoshida was also closing. In a messy finish, Preservationist got up by ½ a length from the game Bal Harbour, with Yoshida finishing late for third.

BAST BLITZES RIVALS IN THE DEBUTANTE STAKES Bast blasted her way to future stardom with an emphatic performance to win the Grade One Del Mar Debutante Stakes. The Bob Baffert-trained daughter of Uncle Mo, settled behind Leucothea in the early stages, aong with old rival Inspiressa. It was Inspiressa who pressed on into the home stretch, with Bast and Drayden Van Dyke making ground to the outside. Bast hit the front with 1 ½ furlongs to run and careered away, passing the post 8 ¾ lengths clear of Inspiressa, with Comical staying on for third.

GHAIYYATH LANDS FIRST GROUP ONE IN BADEN BADEN Ghaiyyath was allowed to dominate his rivals in a one-sided victory in the Group One 147th Longines Grosser Preis von Baden at Baden Baden. A field of nine lined-up for one of the biggest races of the year in Germany, over 1 ½ miles. The Godolphin four-year-old, giving weight to a posse of three-year-olds in the Group One, including German Derby winner Laccario, was soon to the fore under William Buick. By halfway, Ghaiyyath had a five-length advantage and his rivals were soon under pressure and failing to make any impression. He turned for home still five lengths clear and headed to the stands rails, with his rivals giving chase in vain. At the line, Ghaiyyath was eased down to win by fourteen lengths, with Donjah claiming second, ahead of Laccario.

Winning trainer Charlie Appleby said: “I am very lucky to be in this position with Ghaiyyath and we have always felt that a mile and a half was going to be his trip. “It was a very impressive performance and I am delighted that the horse has shown us today what we have always felt he could potentially do. “This race is a very good preparation for the Group One Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and it is a nice discussion that we can have over the next 10 days or two weeks. “All of my decisions are made with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and we look forward to talking about Ghaiyyath and deciding whether we head towards Longchamp or look elsewhere.” William Buick said: “Ghaiyyath is an amazing horse. He was very impressive in the Group Two Prix d’Harcourt at Longchamp in the spring – you very rarely see a horse do what he did that day. “For one reason or another, he disappointed in the Prix Ganay but Charlie has always been adamant that Ghaiyyath will stay a mile and a half and he showed that today. “He is a monster, an absolute monster. Let’s hope that he will be around for a while.”

PERFECT ALIBI LOOKS SMART IN SPINAWAY STAKES WIN Perfect Alibi had to show courage but was up to the task as she landed the Grade One Spinaway Stakes at Saratoga. A field of seven juvenile fillies went to post for this important seven-furlong race on the dirt. From the gates it was Mundaye Call who went on from Frank’s Rockette and Risky Mischief. Settling down, Mundaye Call and Frank’s Rockette continued to set the fractions and were one and two at the far turn. As they reached the home stretch, Mundaye Call still held the lead, but Frank’s Rockette quickly asserted and moved a length clear. The challenge came from Perfect Alibi to the inside. It became very tight and Perfect Alibi was very short of room, but very game, as Irad Ortiz asked his mount for her effort.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING The Mark Casse-trained daughter of Sky Mesa squeezed through and ended up going away from her old rival to win by 1 ½ lengths from Frank’s Rockette, with Figure Of Speech coming home third.

CIRCUS MAXIMUS HOLDS ON FOR PRIX DU MOULIN VICTORY Circus Maximus got the better of a tight photo finish to the Group One Prix du Moulin de Longchamp. A field of ten lined-up for this prestigious mile contest. At the off it was the filly Obligate who went on but was soon joined and passed by the grey Success Day. The front two matched strides and led by 1 ½ lengths from Circus Maximus and Delaware. Turning for home, Obligate led as Success Days began to drop back and it was Circus Maximus who challenged with Romanised, as Delaware failed to get a run. Circus Maximus hit the front and was joined by Romanised, the two Irish colts having a terrific tussle through the final furlong. At the line there was nothing between then, with Line Of Duty closing to finish ¾ of a length down in third, just ahead of Olmedo.

After a photograph finish, Circus Maximus and Ryan Moore had just held on by the narrowest of margins. However, the three year-old then had to survive a Stewards’ Enquiry before being officially declared the winner. The Aidan O’Brien trained Circus Maximus, a son of Galileo, out of Duntle, had won the St James’s Palace Stakes earlier in the year, before finishing second to Too Darn Hot in the Sussex Stakes.

EL TORMENTA LANDS THE RICOH WOODBINE MILE El Tormenta and Eurico Rose Da Silva got a dream ride to the inside as they won the Grade One Ricoh Woodbine Mile Stakes. Eleven horses contested this one-mile race on the turf. At the break it was Made You Look who led with Got Stormy and Silent Poet. Settling down, Awesometank went on from Silent Poet. Heading to the far turn, Admiralty Pier, Silent Poet and Awesometank led with Got Stormy to the outside. The leaders soon faded in the home stretch and it was Got Stormy who streaked clear, but El Tormenta to the inside gained momentum and wore down the leader. At the line, El Tormenta was half a length up on Got Stormy, with Lucullan finishing third and Raging Bull fourth, although the third served violently late on and impeded the fourth.

OLD PERSIAN TOO GOOD IN THE NORTHERN DANCER Old Persian was a cut above his North American rivals in the Grade One Northern Dancer Turf Stakes at Woodbine. Six horses lined-up for this 1 ½ mile race, with Old Persian representing Godolphin and Charlie Appleby. At the off there was an even break apart from Old Persian, who missed the break.

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS

Cooler Mike set off in front and was soon ten lengths clear and maybe fourteen ahead of Tiz A Slam as he entered the back stretch. The leader moved further away of Tiz A Slam who sat three lengths clear of Old Persian. However, the advantage was whittled away at the far turn and Tiz A Slam readily went by him, with Old Persian tracking. Tiz A Slam reached the top of the stretch with a length lead but James Doyle sat silently on Old Persian and quickly hit the front. Old Persian took three lengths out of his rivals and reached the line with James Doyle easing him down and celebrating. Two lengths back there was a three-way battle for second, with Nessy just claiming that position ahead of Tiz A Slam and Focus Group. Old Persian, a son of Dubawi, had only recently returned to the racetrack after a lengthy break.

WALDGEIST EASES TO A SECOND PRIX FOY SUCCESS Waldgeist ran out a comfortably winner of the Group Two Qatar Prix Foy at ParisLongchamps. Arc Trials afternoon got underway with this 1 ½ mile contest for older horses, which attracted a field of just four runners, but three of whom were engaged in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

The race got underway with the Japanese runner Kiseki going to the front under Christophe Soumillon and Waldgeist settling in second, ahead of Silverwave and Way To Paris. The order remained the same, with the runners in Indian file and Kiseki leading by two lengths. Kiseki led into the home straight with a length lead over Waldgeist, with similar distances back to Silverwave and Way To Paris. Soumillon asked his mount for more in the home straight but he was easily picked up and passed by Waldgeist. The Andre Fabre runner quickened well for Pierre-Charles Boudot and moved to a smooth two-length victory over the grey Way To Paris, with Kiseki just beating Silverwave for third. The five year-old Waldgeist, finished fourth in the Arc last year and was winning the Prix Foy for the second year running.

STAR CATCHER LANDS THE PRIX VERMEILLE Star Catcher continued her progression to win the Group One Prix Vermeille at ParisLongchamp. Nine fillies and mares took their chances in this 1 ½ mile contest, including the John Gosdentrained English and Irish Oaks winners Anapurna and Star Catcher. Channel was well away but Tamniah soon led, with Star Catcher also up with the pace. Frankie Dettori moved the Irish Oaks winner Star Catcher to the front early in the home straight and Fleeting gave chase but was soon seen off.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING

Image supplied by Newbury Racecourse

The John Gosden-trained Star Catcher kept up the gallop and Musis Amica, last but some way for much of the race, threw down the biggest challenge to take second, 1 ½ lengths back, with Ligne D’Or claiming third.

SOTTSASS OVERCOMES A SCARE IN THE PRIX NIEL Sottsass found all the trouble in the world but scrambled home to win the Group Two Qatar Prix Niel at ParisLonghamp. Three year-old colts took centre stage in this Arc trial, with the Prix du Jockey Club winner Sottsass one of five runners over 1 ½ miles. From the gates it was Veronesi who went into the lead from Mutamakina and Sottsass, with Quest The Moon next and then Mohawk. Veronesi continued to take the field along and moved into a four length lead over Mutamakina, with Quest The Moon joining Sottsass and Mohawk sat last of the five. Veronesi continued clear of his rivals and reached the home turn still three lengths clear of Mutamakina, with Quest The Moon third and Sottsass hemmed in to the inside rail, with nowhere to go.

However, an extraordinary finish to the race saw Veronesi lead to the furlong pole before he was finally caught by the sprinting Mutamakina and Quest The Moon. Sottsass and Cristian Demuro were all dress-up with nowhere to go, but with about ¼ of a furlong to race, he finally found a gap between Veronesi and Mutamakina and shot through to win going away by about a length from Mutamakina, with Mohawk staying on for third. Whilst this race was far from ideal, Jean-Claude Rouget will have taken comfort from how Sottsass stayed the trip and an Arc bid remains on-track.

DECORATED INVADER IMPRESSES IN THE SUMMER STAKES Decorated Invader ran out an authoritative winner of the Grade One Summer Stakes at Woodbine. Eleven juveniles lined-up for this one mile race on the turf. Keep On Truckin and Mystical Lancelot led early on, but Cadet Connolly pulled to the front from Pleasecallmeback. Racing to the far turn, Cadet Connolly still led by a length from Pleasecallmeback.

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October 2019

INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS That was the order into the home stretch, with the pack gradually closing. Decorated Invader went on with 1 ½ furlongs to run, with Cadet Connolly fighting on gamely to the inside. But Decorated Invader and Irad Ortiz were well on top at the line to win by around two lengths from Cadet Connolly, with a close call for third between the Joseph O’Brien trained Vitalogy and Proven Strategies.

SURPRISING SOUL AND ROSS GERAGHTY WIN IN BELMONT Surprising Soul and Ross Geraghty made virtually all the running to win the Grade One Lonesome Glory Handicap Chasee at Belmont. Nine took part in this 2 ½ mile race with plenty of ex-British and Irish runners and Rachael Blackmore competing. After a false start, it was Scorpiancer who led early on from Surprising Soul and All The Way Jose. Settling down, Surprising Soul pressed on, with All The Way Jose taking second ahead of Scorpiancer, but the pace was fairly sedate. With a circuit to race, Surprising Soul continued to lead over the fifth, with All The Way Jose second and a gap back to Scorpiancer, Hinterland and Bedrock. Into the back stretch, the order was the same as Surprising Soul took three out and led over the second last. But the pack gradually began to close at the final fence, with All The Way Jose challenging and then Scorpiancer and Hinterland. Turning for home, Surprising Soul was still three lengths clear and All The Way Jose was under pressure and not closing. Hinterland began to pick up late on, but never threatened to catch Surprising Soul who won by four lengths from Hinterland, with All The Way Jose third.

ABSCOND DENIES WALK IN MARRAKESH IN THE NATALMA STAKES British runner Walk In Marrakesh came agonisingly close but was just pipped by Abscond in the Grade One Natalma Stakes at Woodbine. Eight two year-old fillies took part in this onemile race on the turf. As the race got underway, it was Abscond who led from the Mark Johnston runner Walk In Marrakesh. Settling down, Jamie Spencer moved Walk In Marrakesh to the lead from Abscond and Secret Stash. Into the far turn, Walk In Marrakesh still held a narrow lead from Abscond and she turned for home in front. Into the home stretch, Walk In Marrakesh was battling hard with Abscond still there and Fair Maiden challenging to the outside. None of the three fillies would yield and Walk In Marrakesh fought back on the inside and got her head back in front late on. But Abscond also fought back between runners and the two were virtually inseparable on the wire, with Fair Maiden a clear third. It was Abscond though who got the verdict for Irad Oriz.

ASPETAR LANDS A FIRST GROUP ONE IN COLOGNE The Roger Charlton-trained Aspetar put it all together to land a first career Group One, with victory in the Preis von Europa at Cologne. Jason Watson had the four year-old up with the pace throughout and as pace-setter Royal Youmzain dropped away, Aspetar seized the initiative. The son of Al Kazeem never looked like being caught and eventually passed the post 2 ½ length clear of German runners Amorella and Donjah, while the big disappointmentsof the race were the Saeed bin Suroor-trained Best Solution and the Mark Johnston-trained Communique, who were well beaten.

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October 2019

FEATURE JOCKEY CLUB GOING GREEN

The Jockey Club Championing the Sustainability Cause The Jockey Club recently released its latest Annual Review and gave important time and space to outline its environmental initiatives, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and developing sustainability for a 21st Century sport.

Why is this so important?

2019 has seen considerable pressure put on Government, with the likes of Climate Extinction causing havoc in London with their protests. Of course the effects of climate change affect the whole planet – and racing as a sport, suffers the immediate effects with extreme weather conditions causing heat issues with horses and significantly impacting ground conditions, grass management and the enjoyment of spectators. Then factor in the Government’s own ambitions for the UK to achieve zero carbon emissions by 2050. It is likely that in the coming years, Government policy will result in crackdowns on corporate business practice, to help achieve this goal. That will extend to sports – so it is great to see The Jockey Club and racing taking on this initiative on a proactive basis.

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October 2019

JOCKEY CLUB GOING GREEN FEATURE

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FEATURE JOCKEY CLUB GOING GREEN What is The Jockey Club doing?

Within its Report, The Jockey Club acknowledges the importance of environmental consideration and how this topic is being pushed closer to the forefront of policy. It says: “To deliver our long term vision for British Racing it is vital that the Jockey Club acts in the best interests of our sport, contributes to the communities in which we operate and protects the environment required to sustain racing.” In 2015, The Jockey Club launched an initiative called “Going Green”. The aim is to heighten employee awareness of environmental issues through a series of workshops, road shows and forums. There is regular training of staff in areas of sustainability. Each Jockey Club venue has an appointed Green Champion who oversees initiatives at a local level. The Green

Champion network includes: a tool kit, monthly conference calls, annual away days, an incentive scheme and webinars and training. There is a Green Employee of the Quarter Award. Other initiatives include Battle of the Baseloads and Big Switch-offs over Bank Holidays and other extended holiday periods. Site audits and process reviews ensure that the green strategy remains adaptable.

INVESTMENT STRATEGY

The Jockey Club regards sustainability as a core consideration in all capital investment projects. The Annual Review explains: “Impact on waste and energy consumption is considered for both during the build of a project and for post-implementation.

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JOCKEY CLUB GOING GREEN FEATURE The Jockey Club’s dedicated Sustainability Manager sits on the Project Review Board and for example, was an active member of the project team for our successful £45 million redevelopment at Cheltenham Racecourse, as well as advising on smaller projects and refurbishments.” But how much impact can The Jockey Club efforts have on the rest of the industry? “We share best practice in sustainability within the racing industry and far beyond and became a founding member of the British Association for Sustainability in Sport (BASIS). “Our Sustainability Manager is a regular presenter at conferences around Europe, sharing best practice and supporting smaller sporting organisations in their bid to go greener. In the UK, The Jockey Club leads masterclasses for Racing Together to share knowledge within the racing industry.”

THE RESULTS

Of course “Going Green” is very much an ongoing project, but results to date have been impressive: • 38% reduction in carbon emissions from mainline energy • 22% reduction in mainline energy consumption • 14% reduction in localised mainline energy consumption, from 2017 to 2018 • The introduction of solar panels at four racecourses and The National Stud. It is anticipated that these solar panels will generate over 500,000kwh in 2019. • A 2020 target to send zero waste to landfill sites was accomplished in the summer of 2018. • A significant increase in waste recycling – which reached 73% in 2018, with the rest sent to waste to energy plans. • The reduction of single use plastics. • A change in supply chain management focus, with local venues prioritising local suppliers; reducing transport costs and emissions. • Reduction of food waste by working with local charities to redirect excess food on occasions such as racing meeting abandonments.

Among the racecourses taking part – and singled out as an example of what can be achieved, is Carlisle Racecourse. At Carlisle, recycling has exceeded targets and in recent months has achieved 95%. “It also became the first of our racecourses to offer the sale of reusable hot drinks cups and switch to canned waste, eliminating the sale of products served in single use plastic to the public.” “We have set challenging sustainability targets to deliver and we strive to continue to lead the way in the racing industry.” To find out more, Course Specialist recently caught up with Kirstin McEvoy, Group Sustainability and Corporate Social Values Manager at The Jockey Club course-specialist.co.uk

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October 2019

FEATURE JOCKEY CLUB GOING GREEN When did The Jockey Club first determine an environmental sustainability strategy? Our first sustainability strategy was set out in 2012.

Has there been any political pressure for racing to respond to carbon emission reduction or is this purely under your own volition?

The government’s Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) legislation initially required The Jockey Club to account for energy consumption in 2010/11 and report in in July 2011. Under our own volition, the opportunity was then identified to set targets to reduce this consumption.

Does racing have a “joined-up” approach to environmental work or is this purely a Jockey Club initiative?

The Jockey Club has shared its approach with other racecourses through a masterclass for Racing Together.

Have you worked with external environmental experts in developing your strategy?

The Jockey Club is part of BASIS (British Association for Sustainability in Sport) which is a community for sharing best practice and knowledge. We also work with an environmental consultancy for support with both our employee engagement programme and technical efficiency identification.

Have you worked with other racing jurisdictions or seen what has worked well elsewhere?

We’ve engaged with Melbourne Racing Club – introduced via the BASIS link with the Australian equivalent – Sports Environment Alliance and had lots of engagement with other sporting venues across the world.

Is The Jockey Club a world leader in racing sustainability measure?

We know from the feedback we’ve had when sharing best practice with other organisations in racing and sport that we are doing many things well when it comes to sustainability. I’d like to think that others see us this way and as innovators in terms of sustainability, as we are in many other fields. It’s important that we’re always looking for new ways to improve what we do.

How much scope is there to influence other areas of racing to respond to environmental challenges, such as: other racecourses, suppliers, trainers, stud farms, etc.?

There is scope to influence other areas of racing. To date we have taken the position of doing our best to improve our own sustainability and sharing knowledge when appropriate.

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October 2019

JOCKEY CLUB GOING GREEN FEATURE

Is there a case for a global racing approach to these issues?

If we want racing across the world to improve the way it tackles these issues then it’s really important to share best practice. That has certainly been integral to our approach to sustainability.

Is it possible to quantify how much financial commitment The Jockey Club has made to “Going Green”? Is this a costly initiative?

The Jockey Club has a sustainability dedicated employee plus 49 Green Champions across the group. We work with consultants to support our initiatives and have invested in various energy saving projects as well as renewable energy. The return on investment for energy reduction means “Going Green” needn’t be costly.

What are the next steps The Jockey Club plans to take over the coming couple of years and what are the long-term goals?

Maintaining the current mainline energy reduction is a target in itself as it will require continued employee engagement as well as investment in equipment in order to maintain its efficiency. The plan is to make annual investment to go over and above this and make further reductions. We have had a single-use plastics policy in place for some time and have made significant advancements towards our goals. We are currently updating this policy, working closely with our catering team to set ambitious but realistic targets for the next year and beyond.

How important is it to educate the racing industry but also to convey this message to the racing public, in terms of what you are doing and why?

The biggest opportunity we have to make a real difference is through influencing the racing public. As the second largest spectator sport in the UK, the audience is vast. If we are seen to be making changes, we can lead by example. course-specialist.co.uk

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October 2019

FEATURE NEWMARKET GOLD SEASON

Image supplied by Tattersalls

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NEWMARKET GOLD SEASON FEATURE

NEWMARKET LAUNCHES THE GOLD SEASON

acing fans always look forward to this time of the year as top class horse racing returns to Newmarket’s historic Rowley Mile Course. Some of the finest thoroughbreds in the world will be gracing the turf there over the coming weeks. As summer turns to autumn, the hues change too. In 2019, the series of important race meetings at Newmarket will be collectively known as the ‘Newmarket Gold Season’, accurately depicting those beautiful colours. It will run from Saturday 21st September and Saturday 12th October and will encompass so much more than just the world class racing on show. The Gold Season features important events; the Henry Cecil Newmarket Open Weekend; the Cambridgeshire Meeting and the Future Champions Festival. The race programme in 2018 was worth over £4.2 million and attracted 546 runners. The competitive nature of the racing was underlined with 21 Pattern races, including 5 Group Ones and 4 heritage handicaps, including the historic ‘Autumn Double’ of the Cambridgeshire Handicap and the Cesarewitch Handicap. But the meetings offer so much more in terms of quality and an eye for the future. Among those runners last autumn, were (at the time of writing) nine horses who won or placed in the Newmarket

Pattern races, who as three year-olds, went on to become individual Group One winners in 2019. Those horses are now household names in racing parlance: Ten Sovereigns ( July Cup), Too Darn Hot (Prix Jean Prat and Sussex Stakes), Advertise (Commonwealth Cup and Prix Maurice de Gheest), Anthony Van Dyck (Investec Derby), Persian King (Poule d’Essai des Poulains – French 2,000 Guineas), Magna Grecia (Qipco 2,000 Guineas), Circus Maximus (St James’s Palace Stakes), Iridessa (Pretty Polly Stakes) and Hermosa (Qipco 1,000 Guineas and Tattersalls Irish 1,000 Guineas).

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FEATURE NEWMARKET GOLD SEASON Away from the racing, the Gold Season is an important time for bloodstock. Tattersalls holds its always significant Tattersalls October Yearling Sales, which in 2018 generated turnover of £170 million. The most expensive lot sold for 3.5 million guineas and in 2018, 14 yearlings broke the one million guineas barrier and 59 lots made 500,000 guineas or more. The Tattersalls Book 1 sale saw over 500 horses sold, while over 2,000 horses were sold in Books 1 -4. The Gold Season is also a key time of the year for the town of Newmarket and the local economy. The four weeks are key for the Suffolk town’s tourism, employment and economy. Newmarket Racecourse alone will host over 350,000 racegoers and thousands more, from around the world, will attend the Tattersalls Sales. To give context, horse racing and the breeding industry contribute over £250 million annually to the local economy. Newmarket and its surrounds are home to some of the most sought-after thoroughbred stallions in the world, with over 30 based locally, generating in excess of £150 million annual in covering fees. The economic impact of the Newmarket Gold Season is thought to be more than £40 million for the local economy. Newmarket Racecourses underlines the importance of this time of the year, stating:

“Newmarket Racecourses is proud to announce the launch of The Newmarket Gold Season, an exciting initiative aimed at boosting the profile of the town’s racing, breeding and sales activities during the busy autumn season. “Autumn signals the return to the Rowley Mile and the start of an unparalleled programme of quality racing hosted by Newmarket Racecourses, with fixtures staged across four pulsating and consecutive weekends.

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NEWMARKET GOLD SEASON FEATURE

“The autumn programme has been dubbed the Gold Season for a number of years but for the first time this worldclass racing, along with the renowned Tattersalls October Yearling Sale and ever-popular Henry Cecil Open Weekend, will be jointly promoted and celebrated. “Starting with the Henry Cecil Open Weekend on 21st and 22nd September and culminating with the conclusion of the October Yearling Sale, across this four-week period the town opens its doors and welcomes visitors from far and wide.” Amy Starkey, Regional Director of The Jockey Club’s East Region, says: “During the autumn, Newmarket becomes a hub for the international racing and bloodstock world. People are drawn here because of the quality of racing and the calibre of bloodstock at the sales. Through The Newmarket Gold Season we want to celebrate this and increase awareness of our remarkable town and the industry that supports it. “It is no coincidence that during this period our commercial partners include some of the region’s most valued and influential stud farms, the likes of Darley, Juddmonte and Shadwell, for whom this time of year is critical in terms of results on the racecourse and in the sales ring. The Newmarket Gold Season provides us with a platform on which to tell their stories better than before.” A total of seven days of high-class racing will be staged at the Rowley Mile across the four season-defining weekends, beginning with the Cesarewitch Trial meeting on the opening Saturday. The focus then turns to the three-day Cambridgeshire Meeting on Thursday 26th to Saturday 28th September, featuring the bet365 Cambridgeshire, as well as the Juddmonte-sponsored Cheveley Park and Middle Park Stakes. On Saturday, 5th October, Europe’s most talented fillies and mares will vie for end-of-season supremacy over a mile in the Group 1 Kingdom of Bahrain Sun Chariot Stakes before The Newmarket Gold Season reaches its thrilling conclusion at the Dubai Future Champions Festival.

This two-day meeting, on Friday 11th and Saturday 12th October, features the Group 1 races the bet365 Fillies’ Mile and Darley Dewhurst Stakes, as well as the Dubai Cesarewitch, one of the most eagerly-anticipated handicaps in the Flat calendar. Amy adds: “At the heart of the racecourse’s autumn fixtures is a two-year-old programme that repeatedly crowns European champions and identifies the stars of the following season. “Nine individual three-year-old Group 1 winners this season either won or were placed in Newmarket’s autumn pattern races of 2018, including Too Darn Hot, Ten Sovereigns, Advertise and Classic winners Magna Graecia, Hermosa and Anthony Van Dyck. “In the same week that Too Darn Hot won the Darley Dewhurst last autumn, his full brother was the top lot at Book 1 of the October Yearling Sale, selling for 3.5m guineas. The Newmarket Gold Season gives us the opportunity to work more closely with our partners, such as Tattersalls, and the whole community to promote such stories and celebrate Newmarket’s standing in the international racing and breeding community.”

KEY NEWMARKET GOLD SEASON DATES Henry Cecil Open Weekend – 21st-22nd Sept Cesarewitch Trial Day – 21st Sept Cambridgeshire Meeting – 26th, 27th, 28th Sept Sun Chariot Day – 5th Oct Tattersalls October Yearling Sale, Book 1 – 8th-10th Oct Dubai Future Champions Festival – 11th-12th Oct

DISCOVER NEWMARKET TOURS AUTUMN ITINERARY History And Heritage Walking Tour – 14th Sept Dalham Hall Stud Tour – 4th Oct Tattersalls Tour October Yearling Sale, Book 1 – 9th Oct Feature Tour With Sir Mark Prescott – 26th Oct

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October 2019

BIG RACE HISTORY DEWHURST STAKES

BIG RACE HISTORY Dewhurst Stakes

ow recognised as the race that most likely defines the champion two year old colt of Britain and Ireland each season, the Dewhurst Stakes is a race that also plays a significant role in establishing likely contenders for the following year’s 2,000 Guineas and Derby. Raced over the straight 7 furlongs of Newmarket’s Rowley Mile, the Dewhurst Stakes has been one by many of the outstanding horses in the history of Flat Racing and is open to juvenile colts and fillies. The event was founded by Thomas Gee and was established in 1875 and was originally titled the “Dewhurst Plate”. It is named after Gee’s Dewhurst Stud at Wadhurst. The first four winners all went on to win one or more of the next year’s Classics. The Dewhurst Stakes was added to the Breeders’ Cup Challenge series in 2011, at the same time forming part of the dual Group 1 competition on the newly formed Future Champions’ Day. The winner was given an automatic invitation to compete in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf. It was removed from the series in 2012. The first winner of the Dewhurst was the Hungarian bred colt Kisber, who the following year won the Derby and Grand Prix de Paris. In 1876 Chamant landed the Middle Park Stakes-Dewhurst Stakes double and followed-up in the 1877 2,000 Guineas. The third winner of the Dewhurst was the top class filly Pilgrimage, who in 1878 added the 1,000 Guineas and 2,000 Guineas and finished second in the Oaks. Remarkably the Dewhurst Stakes produced its fourth Classic winner in as many races in 1878, when Wheel Of Fortune, unbeaten in 6 starts at two, added the 1,000 Guineas, Oaks, Prince Of Wales’s Stakes and Yorkshire Oaks.

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The next big name winner of the Dewhurst was Dutch Oven in 1881. She played her part in a remarkable 1882 season, winning the St Leger as fillies achieved an unprecedented feat of winning all five English Classics. Three years later, the 1884 Dewhurst Stakes was won by a colt of rare quality called Paradox. Once again the race proved a platform for a hugely successful 3 year old campaign which saw the horse win the 2,000 Guineas, Grand Prix de Paris, Sussex Stakes and Champion Stakes. However Paradox proved the hors d’ouevres to the following year’s champion juvenile, who would prove a champion on many levels. In fact to many, Ormonde was simply the horse of the 19th Century. As a 3 year old he won the Triple Crown and his career also included 2 wins in the Hardwicke Stakes and success in the Champion Stakes as he retired unbeaten. Both Paradox and Ormonde were trained by the preeminent trainer of the era, the incomparable John Porter. In all Porter trained a record 8 winners of the Dewhurst Stakes: Paradox (1884), Ormonde (1885), Friar’s Balsam (1887), Orme (1891), Matchbox (1893), Vesuvian (1896), Hawfinch (1897) and Frontier (1898). In 1887 there was a brilliantly precocious colt called Friar’s Balsam and he swept through the British juvenile pattern races, winning the New Stakes, July Stakes, Richmond Stakes, Middle Park Stakes and Dewhurst Stakes. After bursting an abscess in his mouth during the 2,000 Guineas, he later returned to beat Minting in the Champion Stakes of 1888. Another brilliant colt appeared in the 1888 Middle Park Stakes, which was won in terrific style by Donovan. The colt had started off winning the Brocklesby Stakes at Lincoln and later won at the Royal meeting. After landing the Middle Park Stakes Donovan stepped up to 7 furlongs and became the

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DEWHURST STAKES BIG RACE HISTORY latest horse to add the Dewhurst Stakes and by the season’s end, had won 11 of his 13 races. As a 3 year old, Donovan won the Derby and St Leger and was denied a Triple Crown by just a head in the 2,000 Guineas. Orme also completed the Middle Park-Dewhurst double in 1891 and later became an outstanding stallion. The following year the great Isinglass won the Middle Park and he went on to win the English Triple Crown of 1893. In 1895 St Frusquin won the Middle Park and Dewhurst Stakes and went on to win the 2,000 Guineas of 1896. The Dewhurst Stakes had made a significant mark in its relatively short life, as the world headed into the 20th Century. The quality continued into the new era and in 1902 Rock Sand won the Dewhurst Stakes. The following year he became the tenth winner of the English Triple Crown and took part in that great Eclipse Stakes against Sceptre and Ard Patrick in 1903. Bayardo became the latest dual winner of the Middle Park and Dewhurst Stakes in 1908 and the following year won the St Leger. A year later Lemberg won the Dewhurst by 5 lengths and as a 3 year old took the Derby, St James’s Palace Stakes, Eclipse Stakes, Jockey Club Stakes and Champion Stakes as part of a brilliant career. In 1910 came the first of two dead-heats in the Dewhurst Stakes, as King William and Phryxus could not be separated by the judge. The Dewhurst Stakes continued during the First World War but there was no race in 1920. The following decade did not produce any outstanding winners but did see the start of a great run of victories for trainer Frank Butters, who in time would match John Porter’s 8 victories in the race thanks to: Toboggan (1927), Mrs Rustom (1933), Hairan (1934), Bala Hissar (1935), Sultan Mahomed (1936), Umiddad (1942), Paper Weight (1944) and Migoli (1946). The next really significant horse to win the race though was the diminutive Hyperion, a horse short in size but mighty in heart and on talent. Hyperion won the Dewhurst Stakes of 1932 and the following season landed the Chester Vase, Derby and St Leger before becoming the most successful British stallion of the 20th Century. There was no Dewhurst Stakes in 1939 as the Second World War began but otherwise the race continued into the 1940s and in 1946, Migoli earned Frank Butters his eighth Dewhurst victory. Later in his career the colt would win the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, the first British trained winner since 1923 and there would not be another until Mill Reef in 1971.

In 1952 Pinza won the Dewhurst Stakes and became immortalised the following year as he was the horse who finally gave Sir Gordon Richards a winning mount in the Derby and also won the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes. Another of the great jockeys came to prominence in the 1950s though and Lester Piggott rode the first of his record 10 Dewhurst Stakes in 1956, aboard the future 2,000 Guineas and Derby winner Crepello. Piggott’s Dewhurst winners were: Crepello (1956), Follow Suit (1962), Ribofilio (1968), Nijinsky (1969), Crowned Prince (1971), Cellini (1973), The Minstrel (1976), Try My Best (1977), Monteverdi (1979) and Diesis (1982). The 1960s ended with a pair of Piggott winners in the Dewhurst Stakes, with both running in the distinctive green and yellow colours, with the red sash, of Charles Engelhard. After Ribofilio had won the 1968 race for trainer Fulke Johnson Houghton, the decade ended with a real superstar. In 1969 the Irish-trained, Canadian-bred colt Nijinsky began to made waves in Ireland, winning his first 4 races. Trained by the legendary Dr Vincent O’Brien, the colt travelled over to Newmarket and sauntered to victory in the Dewhurst Stakes, confirming himself the best European 2 year old for the year. He took the racing world by storm in 1970, becoming the first English Triple Crown winner since Bahram in 1935 – and to date the last colt to achieve this accomplishment. He also won the Irish Derby and King George at Ascot in an unbelievable year. As Nijinsky was wowing the public in 1970, a small bay colt was making waves in the 2 year old division, Mill Reef had won the Coventry Stakes by 6 lengths and the Gimcrack by an astonishing 10 lengths, suffering his only defeat to My Swallow in the Prix Robert Papin, The colt confirmed himself top draw with an easy 4 length success in the Dewhurst Stakes. The following year he took part in perhaps the greatest of all 2,000 Guineas, narrowly defeating My Swallow but finding the legendary Brigadier Gerard 4 lengths too good against the stands rail. Mill Reef was never beaten again and romped to victories in the Derby, Eclipse Stakes, King George, Arc de Triomphe and the following year’s Prix Ganay and Coronation Cup before injury ended a brilliant career. Another outstanding colt from the 1970s was Grundy, the chestnut horse trained by Peter Walwayn, who would go on to win the Derby and the “Race of the Century” when beating Bustino in that never to be forgotten 1975 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes. A year earlier he had really established himself with a brilliant 6 length demolition of the very smart Irish colt Steel Heart.

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BIG RACE HISTORY DEWHURST STAKES

A year after Grundy, another top class colt won the Dewhurst Stakes as Wollow stretched his unbeaten run to 4 for the up and coming trainer Sir Henry Cecil. Of course the following year Wollow proved a most brilliant horse, winning the 2,000 Guineas under Gianfranco Dettori (father of Frankie), Eclipse Stakes (on the disqualification of Trepan), Sussex Stakes and Benson and Hedges Gold Cup. This truly was a golden period for the Dewhurst Stakes and the mid-70s also saw an influx of expensively purchased American-bred colts to Ballydoyle, where master trainer Dr Vincent O’Brien shaped the careers of some of the finest sons of Northern Dancer, sire of Nijinsky. After Wollow’s victory in the Dewhurst Stakes, O’Brien sent his flashy chestnut colt The Minstrel – a son of Northern Dancer, across the Irish Sea to win the 1976 renewal, finishing the season unbeaten in 3 races. Having been defeated in the following year’s Guineas, The Minstrel won the Derby, Irish Derby and King George, proving a tough and honest horse. O’Brien, his chief owner Robert Sangster and jockey Lester Piggott had masterminded the career of The Minstrel and in 1977 they had the following year’s Champion 2 Year Old in the shape of another Northern Dancer colt Try My Best. Sadly Try My Best was injured when finishing last in the 1978 2,000 Guineas and never ran again but his dam Sex Appeal, would have further bearing on the Dewhurst. In 1978 the flashy chestnut Tromos looked really exciting as he defeated More Light by 3 lengths but he flopped in the following year’s Craven Stakes and never ran in Britain again. The 1979 Dewhurst then returned to familiar surrounds as the Sangster-O’Brien-Piggott trinity were successful with Monteverdi, who beat among other the follow year’s Derby

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winner Henbit. Monteverdi never quite hit the heights as a 3 year old. With Pat Eddery replacing Lester Piggott at Ballydoyle (Piggott joining Sir Henry Cecil’s Newmarket yard), the Sangster-O’Brien axis continued to churn out Dewhurst Stakes winners and in 1980, the exciting Storm Bird made it 4 wins in 5 years, defeating future 2,000 Guineas winner To Agori Mou and the future top class stallion Miswaki. Storm Bird was strongly fancied to take 1981 by storm but was attacked during the winter in his stable, allegedly by a former stable lad, having his mane and tail cut off. Niggling injuries and illness then disrupted his career but he went on to prove a success at stud as Shergar and To Agori Mou made their marks in 1981. In freezing cold temperatures, the 1981 Dewhurst Stakes was won by the Henry Candy trained Wind And Wuthering, who went on to finish a close second to Zino in the following year’s 2,000 Guineas. In 1982 there was a sensation that put the Dewhurst Stakes on the front pages of the national press for all the wrong reasons. Gorytus had been labelled a wonder horse after destroying his rivals, including the highly-rated Sir Henry Cecil colt Salieri, as he smashed the York track record in the Acomb Stakes on debut. The Major Dick Hern trained son of Nijinsky was equally impressive in winning the Champagne Stakes at Doncaster and scared away most of his opposition in the Dewhurst Stakes, facing just 3 rivals. Chief among these was Sir Henry Cecil’s colt Diesis, who had won the Middle Park Stakes but was not thought capable of living with Gorytus. The son of Sharpen Up, racing in the apricot silks of Lord Howard de Walden, was a fully brother

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DEWHURST STAKES BIG RACE HISTORY to the great miler Kris. He became the first (and last) horse to complete the Middle Park-Dewhurst Stakes double as Gorytus seemed to lose his action at halfway and dropped away from his rivals alarmingly and was virtually pulled up amid allegations of doping. The headlines rather robbed Diesis of his achievement and he went into the winter as a major Classic hope, although he sadly failed to reproduce his form in 1983. In 1983 came one of the mighty match-ups in Dewhurst Stakes history. Once again the Sangster-O’Brien team combined with a Northern Dancer colt who was out of Sex Appeal. His name was El Gran Senor and he went to Newmarket unbeaten in 3 races. Up against him was the Champion French 2 year old Siberian Express and the ultra-consistent Bill O’Gorman colt Superlative, who had featured in many of the summer’s leading juvenile contests. Also in the line-up was the unbeaten Blushing Groom colt Rainbow Quest, who had vanquished 29 runners in a maiden on Newmarket’s July Course before landing the competitive Haynes, Hanson and Clark Stakes at Newbury. In a thrilling race it was Rainbow Quest who threw down the gauntlet to El Gran Senor and the pair of unexposed horses pulled right away from their rivals, duelling through the final quarter of a mile. It was El Gran Senor who had the upper hand at the line but both colts had confirmed they were out of the top draw, beating horses with excellent form, by a very long way. The following year El Gran Senor went on to beat Sadler’s Wells in the Gladness Stakes before beating one of the great 2,000 Guineas fields, containing champion miler Chief Singer, Lear Fan and Rainbow Quest. El Gran Senor was narrowly defeated in the Epsom Derby but again beat Rainbow Quest in the Irish Derby before injury curtailed his career. Rainbow Quest proved a smart colt too, winning the Great Voltigeur Stakes at three and as a 4 year old winning the Coronation Cup and Arc de Triomphe on the disqualification of Sagace. A Dewhurst of such quality was a hard act to follow but the 1984 renewal was not short on drama or excitement. Once again Ballydoyle had a major candidate in the unbeaten Alleged colt Law Society, although Major Dick Hern once again had a big player in Local Suitor. Both colts were involved in a thrilling finish but there was a shock result in what turned out to be a desperately close three-way finish. The grey colt Kala Dancer, a recent maiden winner, put in the race of his life to narrowly deny Law Society by a head, with Local Suitor a further head away in third place. Only Law Society made his mark the following year, finishing second in the Derby to Slip Anchor before winning the Irish Derby.

The 1985 Dewhurst Stakes also produced a shock result. A strong field assembled, including the unbeaten Ballydoyle colt Woodman, the top class Nomination and Bakharoff and the exciting Coventry Stakes winner Sure Blade, while Jareer had been an expensive yearling, his sales price into the millions. However the race provided jockey Michael Hills with his first Group 1 success as Huntingdale lost his maiden tag. The following season he went on to finish third to Dancing Brave in the 2,000 Guineas. The 1986 Dewhurst Stakes took place on Newmarket’s July Course as the Rowley Mile course was having work carried out. It was a race that threw up a champion – but a hundred questions. Sir Michael Stoute’s colt Ajdal was yet another son of Northern Dancer and had made a good impression when winning races at Doncaster and Ascot. He stepped up markedly in class for the Dewhurst Stakes, where his rivals included the Middle Park Stakes winner Mister Majestic. Ajdal came through to win the race and went clear racing up the hill inside the final furlong. However all of a sudden his stride shortened and he won by a diminishing ¾ of a length from Shady Heights, provoking great debate over his ability to stay a mile. Sadly the following spring he did not fire fully and disappointed in the English and Irish 2,000 Guineas before also failing to stay in the Derby. Stoute dropped him down in trip for the July Cup and the horse went on to become Champion Sprinter of 1987, also winning the William Hill Sprint Championship and Vernons Sprint Cup. In October 1987, much of the south of England was hit by extraordinary gales that caused enormous structural damage, bringing downs thousands of trees. At Newmarket the damage included marquee tents and the course was not safe to host the Dewhurst Stakes which failed to take place. A year on, Newmarket basked in autumn sunshine and a thrilling finish to the Dewhurst Stakes, as the beautifullybred Prince Of Dance (a son of Sadler’s Wells out of the Oaks winner Sun Princess – whom he resembled in appearance), dead-heated with Scenic (another son of first season sire Sadler’s Wells). Sadly neither colt went on to make a significant impression the following year. The decade ended with Ian Balding, trainer of Mill Reef, landing another Dewhurst Stakes with Dashing Blade, as the red hot favourite Royal Academy disappointed. However the latter went on to win the July Cup and Breeders’ Cup Mile in 1990. The 1990 Dewhurst Stakes produced another huge shock which 12 months later looked like the most obvious result! Generous was a beautiful chestnut colt who had made his mark as an early season colt, finishing second in the Coventry

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BIG RACE HISTORY DEWHURST STAKES Stakes but appearing fully exposed as he finished third in the Vintage Stakes and unplaced in the Prix Morny. He then won a small Sandown Park contest but was thought to be no match for horses of the calibre of Champagne Stakes winner Bog Trotter and the exciting runaway winner of the July Stakes and Gimcrack Stakes, Mujtahid. However it was the Paul Cole trained Generous who came out of the Dip best of all and ran on strongly to repel Bog Trotter at odds of 50/1. In 1991 that seemed incredibly, well, generous, as the horse brilliantly won the Derby at Epsom defeated Suave Dancer in the Irish Derby and routed older horses in the King George. The reputation of the Dewhurst continued on an upward trajectory the following year as Dr Devious, one of two exceptional juveniles in the care of first season trainer Peter Chapple-Hyam, (who won the Middle Park Stakes with Rodrigo de Triano) added the Dewhurst Stakes to his earlier Superlative Stakes and Vintage Stakes successes. In 1992 the colt ran unplaced in the Kentucky Derby before sensationally returning to England to win the Epsom Derby and Irish Champion Stakes. Another exceptional colt demolished his rivals in a

memorable 1992 Dewhurst Stakes. The outstanding French trainer Andre Fabre sent his unbeaten powerful colt Zafonic to Newmarket after 3 previous wins including an imperious 3 length destruction of Kingmambo in the Prix De La Salamandre. In a field containing the exciting Irish colt Fatherland, the cop class filly Sueboog and the smart Inchinor, Pat Eddery was content to sit in last place on Zafonic. In the later stages Eddery asked his mount to quicken and the horse made smooth, powerful progress, slicing through his rivals to demolish a top class field by 4 lengths, going away. After a surprise reversal behind Kingmambo on his comeback, Zafonic repeated his Dewhurst Stakes exploits with a devastating victory in the 1993 2,000 Guineas, one of the most memorable images of the entire decade. The 1993 Dewhurst Stakes went to the progressive colt Grand Lodge, racing in the same silks as Diesis, a decade before. Having won the Tattersalls Stakes impressively a fortnight earlier, Grand Lodge showed a fine turn of foot to defeat the ill-fated Stonehatch in the Dewhurst and proved a top class 3 year old colt, winning the St James’s Palace Stakes and placing second in the 2,000 Guineas.

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DEWHURST STAKES BIG RACE HISTORY Andre Fabre’s trips to England for the Dewhurst Stakes were sparing and always of merit. In 1994 he brought the unbeaten colt Pennekamp to Newmarket, having followed the Zafonic route via the Prix De La Salamandre. At Newmarket he was much more workmanlike than Zafonic, beating Green Perfume by a length. However like his predecessor, he duly landed the 2,000 Guineas the following season, in a dramatic photo finish from Celtic Swing. Sadly injury in the Derby ended his racing career. The 1995 Dewhurst Stakes winner was Major Dick Hern’s Alhaarth, the outstanding juvenile colt of the year, who had already won the Vintage Stakes, Solario Stakes and Champagne Stakes. Sadly he was unable to dominate as a 3 year old. A year later In Command proved a surprise winner of a race containing future Irish 2,000 Guineas and Irish Derby winner Desert King and QEII winner Air Express. In 1997 the Dewhurst Stakes moved from its traditional Friday berth to the Saturday of the Houghton Meeting, as one of the major highlights of what proved a hugely popular and successful afternoon’s racing for Champions’ Day. This day brought together the top races from the threeday Houghton Meeting; the Challenge Stakes, Champion Stakes, Cesarewitch, Rockfel Stakes and the Dewhurst and the meeting consistently delivered decent autumn ground, top class winners, good crowds, good betting turnover and fair results on a fair course. The 1997 Dewhurst Stakes also introduced British race goers to a significant son of Zafonic. A fascinating renewal was turned into a procession as Xaar, racing in the same Prince Khalid Abdullah silks and also trained by Andre Fabre, stormed away from his rivals, with the same domination that Zafonic had displayed. Memories of the superstar miler of 1993 were immediately invoked but Xaar did not progress at 3, scraping home in the Craven Stakes and only finishing fourth in the 2,000 Guineas.

The 1998 Dewhurst Stakes was considered one of the great renewals on the morning of the race, but by early evening, pundits and punters were scratching their heads at the result. The highly touted Aidan O’Brien colt Stravinsky was expected to run well but up against him was Sir Henry Cecil’s exciting unbeaten colt Enrique, who had won the Tattersalls Stakes by 5 long lengths, while the unbeaten Lujain had won the Middle Park Stakes by 4 lengths. Barry Hills saddled Auction House, a colt who was on a four-timer and had won the Acomb Stakes and Champagne Stakes like Gorytus. Andre Fabre also sent over the unbeaten, once raced Indian Danehill for what promised to be a mouth watering clash. However all of these horses had to play second fiddle to Mujahid, a horse who had lost his unbeaten record when flopping in the Gimcrack Stakes on good to firm ground. At Newmarket he strode clear of Auction House and Stravinsky at massive odds. Mujahid and Enrique went on to place in the following season’s 2,000 Guineas, while Stravinsky was the Champion Sprinter after winning the July Cup and Nunthorpe Stakes. The autumn of 1999 saw the Rowley Mile fixtures moved to the July Course as Newmarket’s new grandstand was being built. In the Dewhurst Stakes, Barry Hills’s unbeaten colt Distant Music proved far too good for his rivals, sealing his position as Champion 2 Year Old colt. Among those he beat was King’s Best who gained revenge by winning the 2,000 Guineas the following spring. Mick Channon, one-time England football star, trained the 2000 winner of the Dewhurst Stakes as his exciting colt Tobougg, followed-up his recent Prix De La Salamandre victory with a convincing success over Noverre. Ridden by the Australian jockey Craig Williams, the colt ended the year one of the top rated horses of his generation although he did not progress the following year. Noverre certainly did and after finishing first past the post but disqualified in the French 2,000 Guineas, the flashy colt won the Sussex Stakes. The Dewhurst fourth Mozart went on to emulate Stravinsky with success in the July Cup and Nunthorpe Stakes. Aidan O’Brien at this stage of his highly successful career, had trained winners of 4 of the 5 English Classics, but had still not trained a Dewhurst Stakes winner. His luck finally changed in 2001 as the progressive Rock Of Gibraltar, famously running in the colours of Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, narrowly outpointed stable mate Landseer, to add the Dewhurst to his earlier victories in the Gimcrack Stakes and Grand Criterium. The following year Landseer won the French Guineas, while Rock Of Gibraltar

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BIG RACE HISTORY DEWHURST STAKES went on a winning spree, landing the English and Irish Guineas, St James’s Palace Stakes, Sussex Stakes and Prix du Moulin, before narrowly failing in the Breeders’ Cup Mile. The Dewhurst was still producing outstanding winners but another shock was on the cards in 2002, as Tout Seul, having his seventh run of the season and seemingly fully exposed, ran out a comfortable winner from Tomahawk in a surprisingly large field of 16 runners. Among the beaten horses was subsequent Irish 2,000 Guineas winner Indian Haven and St James’s Palace Stakes winner Zafeen. Tout Seul ran fourth in the following year’s 2,000 Guineas and third behind Indian Haven but never quite hit the same heights again for Eve Johnson Houghton. There was an even bigger shock in 2003 though, as Milk It Mick, having his thirteenth run of a decent but hardly outstanding season defeated much higher rated rivals. Jamie Osborne’s colt had won the Tattersalls Stakes a couple of weeks earlier but that result had been a surprise and in the Dewhurst he faced recent Middle Park Stakes first past the post (although later disqualified) Three Valleys and the highly-rated Haafhd, who had already beaten Milk It Mick. However under Darryl Holland, the son of Millkom defied his rating and got the better of Three Valleys in a narrow finish. His career did not take off afterwards, but Haafhad went on to land the 2,000 Guineas of 2004 and Bachelor Duke was successful in the Irish equivalent. In 2004, the unbeaten Mark Johnston colt Shamardal, won a hugely informative Dewhurst Stakes by a convincing 2 ½ lengths from Aidan O’Brien’s Oratorio. Shamardal was adding the Dewhurst to his earlier Vintage Stakes victory and as a 3 year old won the French 2,000 Guineas, Prix du Jockey Club and St James’s Palace Stakes before injury curtailed what looked like being an outstanding career. Oratorio went on to defeat Motivator the Derby winner in the Eclipse Stakes and later won the Irish Champion Stakes. Also in that Dewhurst was Librettist, who was injury-hit at 3 but as a 4 year old in 2006 won the Prix Jacques Le Marois and Prix du Moulin. That tried and tested route of the Vintage Stakes at Goodwood once again proved the key to the Dewhurst Stakes in 2005, as Sir Percy defeated another Ballydoyle colt Horatio Nelson. Sir Percy was an orphan foal after his top class mother Percy’s Lass had sadly died giving birth, but he proved a top class colt, finishing second to George Washington in the 2,000 Guineas before winning the Epsom Derby. The Dewhurst often defines a champion juvenile colt and that alone earns a racehorse a career at stud. However few people could have foreseen the future of the first two horses in

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the 2006 Dewhurst Stakes as the main protagonists returned to unsaddle. Teofilo was trained by Jim Bolger and had swept through the top Irish juvenile races, landing the Tyros Stakes, Futurity Stakes and National Stakes in an unbeaten run of 4 victories. His great rival Holy Roman Emperor had won the Railway Stakes and Phoenix Stakes and the pair met in the National Stakes where Teofilo was well on top. However Holy Roman Emperor then travelled to France to land the Jean Luc Lagadere, underlining the strength of the form. In the Dewhurst Stakes, the pair faced 13 rivals but pulled clear of their rivals, settling down for a terrific scrap which the Bolger horse edged by a head. Hopes were high for both colts going into 2007, with Teofilo even mentioned as a prospective Triple Crown contender. However Teofilo picked up an injury close to the 2,000 Guineas and never raced again, while Holy Roman Emperor was retired to stud without racing at 3 years, to replace the sub-fertile George Washington who returned to racing for a campaign that resulted in tragedy. Both Teofilo and Holy Roman Emperor had the potential to light up the 2007 Flat season but neither colt raced although they have enjoyed successful stallion careers to date. Jim Bolder must have been disappointed not to get a clear run of luck with Teofilo but in 2007 he had a ready replacement as the chestnut colt New Approach went to Newmarket unbeaten in 4 starts, including the Futurity and National Stakes. In the Dewhurst Stakes he faced some formidable English horses including the highly-rated Raven’s Pass and Rio De La Plata (who had won the Jean Luc Lagardere after finishing second to New Approach in the National Stakes). There was the unusual sight beforehand, as New Approach was ponied down to the start but he roared back home, defeating Fast Company and Raven’s Pass to seal his main billing among the juveniles. In 2008 New Approach was twice second to Henrythenavigator in the English and Irish 2,000 Guineas but then won the Derby and ended his career with victories in the Irish and English Champion Stakes. Jim Bolger had won the last two renewals of the Dewhurst Stakes but appeared to have little chance of making it a hattrick in 2008, with his much-raced and fully exposed colt Intense Focus. The favourite in a field of 13 was the highlytouted Aidan O’Brien colt Rip Van Winkle, while Soul Power had proved a good horse for Richard Hannon, Ashram was highly rated for John Hills and Delegator looked a big danger. However, in a sensational turnaround of previous form, Intense Focus got the better of Lord Shanakill and Finjaan in a finish of two noses and outsiders. The following season Delegator ran second to Sea The Stars in the 2,000 Guineas, while Rip Van

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Winkle ran second to the same horse in the Eclipse Stakes before winning the Sussex Stakes and QEII. As a 4 year old he also won the Juddmonte International Stakes. In 2009 Bolger was therefore seeking a four-timer in the Dewhurst Stakes, with the exciting colt Chabal and the outsider Free Judgement. A field of 15 went to post and there was another shock – but it came from Aidan O’Brien this time. Beethoven went to the Dewhurst having won only once in 9 previous starts – a maiden on his sixth attempt. He had been comprehensively outpointed on many occasions and frankly looked to have no chance. Visored and partnered by Ryan Moore, the outsider got the better of another nailbiter, defeating his stable mate Fencing Mast by a neck, with Xtension beaten a nose in third, just a neck ahead of another O’Brien horse Steinbeck (later renamed Pure Champion when racing in the Far East) in fourth place. The winner did very little of note in Europe thereafter, eventually racing in Qatar. Xtension was sold to race in Hong Kong where he performed well, while Dick Turpin, unplaced in the Dewhurst, finished second to Makfi in the 2,000 Guineas. The 2010 Dewhurst Stakes favoured quality over quantity and promised a real tear-up. From Ireland came Aidan O’Brien’s highly-rated Roderic O’Connor, while Dream Ahead had won the 6 furlong Middle Park Stakes by a phenomenal 9

lengths a couple of weeks earlier. Then there was Saamidd, the Godolphin colt who had been nicknamed “Pegasus”. However none of these horses had faced anything of the calibre of Frankel, a head strong juvenile from the resurgent Sir Henry yard, who had illuminated the racing scene with 3 victories, the last of which, a 10 length rout in the Royal Lodge Stakes. In the Dewhurst Stakes Frankel received a bump early in the race which lit him up but despite not settling, he pulled his way to the front for a straight forward 2 ¼ length defeat of Roderic O’Connor. That colt went on to win the following year’s Irish 2,000 Guineas, while Dream Ahead was crowned Champion Sprinter of 2011 with victories in the July Cup and Betfred Sprint Cup. As for Frankel, his 8 length demolition of his 2,000 Guineas rivals underlined an exceptional horse who went on to an undefeated 14 race career yielding a St James’s Palace Stakes, an unprecedented 2 Sussex Stakes, a QEII, a Lockinge Stakes, Queen Anne, Juddmonte International and Ascot Champion Stakes. He has strong claims to be considered that greatest ever winner of the Dewhurst Stakes although fans of Nijinsky might of course feel differently. In 2011 the Dewhurst Stakes produced yet another Jim Bolger winner as Parish Hall defied his previous form to beat future Irish 2,000 Guineas winner Power and the later St James’s Palace Stakes winner Most Improved.

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BIG RACE HISTORY DEWHURST STAKES Bolger incredibly held all the aces once again in 2012, with the first son of New Approach to make a mark. In fact, Dawn Approach had won the opening juvenile race of the 2012 Irish turf season and had progressed with each run, winning the Coventry Stakes and National Stakes in an unbeaten run of 5 victories heading to the Dewhurst. John Gosden’s lightlyraced colt Ashdan had a lofty reputation but Dawn Approach smoothly took up the running to lead home a Bolger one-two as Leitir Mor finished second. Dawn Approach added the 2,000 Guineas in 2013 before failing to settle in the Derby. He then narrowly defeated Toronado in the St James’s Palace Stakes before that colt gained his revenge narrowly in the Sussex Stakes and thereafter Dawn Approach lost his form. The 2013 Dewhurst Stakes attracted a small but select field and once again an Irish colt landed the prize. War Command had looked a potential world beater when streaking away from his rivals to win the Coventry Stakes by 6 lengths. After disappointing in the Phoenix Stakes he returned to winning ways with a facile success in the Futurity Stakes. In the Dewhurst he quickened well out of the Dip to get the better of Cable Bay, with the Godolphin colt Outstrip back in third. The latter travelled to America and the following month won the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf, while War Command failed to make a serious impression during the 2014 season. In 2014, the race went the way of one of Newmarket’s up and coming trainers and jockeys, as Belardo improved to beat Kodi Bear for Roger Varian and Andrea Atzeni.

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A year later and the outstanding colt of the year, Air Force Blue, was crowned Champion Two Year Old Colt with an imperious display at Newmarket. The Aidan O’Brien trained son of War Front beat Massaat by 3 ¾ lengths with a performance that brooked no argument. Aidan O’Brien was back in the winner’s enclosure again in 2016, as the progressive Churchill capped a fine season with victory in the Dewhurst Stakes, beating stable mate Lancaster Bomber. Churchill went on to land the English/Irish 2,000 Guineas double the following year, further enhancing the reputation of the Dewhurst’s long track record for producing champions. Aidan O’Brien brought up a hat-trick of victories in the Dewhurst Stakes in 2017. U S Navy Flag had taken time to show his best form, but with the Middle Park Stakes moving back to the Cambridgeshire Meeting, he became the first horse since Diesis, in 1982, to land the Middle Park-Dewhurst Stakes double. In 2018, the Dewhurst went to the pre-eminent colt of his generation, Too Darn Hot. He became the first John Gosden-trained winner of the race as he powered clear of Advertise and Anthony Van Dyck. All three would win Group One races the following year. The Dewhurst Stakes remains as important as ever, as a definer of juvenile and future champions.

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WINNERS OF THE DEWHURST STAKES 1875 Kisber 1876 Chamant 1877 Pilgrimage 1878 Wheel of Fortune 1879 Grace Cup 1880 Bal Gal 1881 Dutch Oven 1882 Ladislas 1883 Queen Adelaide 1884 Paradox 1885 Ormonde 1886 Reve d’Or 1887 Friar’s Balsam 1888 Donovan 1889 Le Nord 1890 Corstorphine 1891 Orme 1892 Meddler 1893 Matchbox 1894 Raconteur 1895 St Frusquin 1896 Vesuvian 1897 Hawfinch 1898 Frontier 1899 Democrat 1900 Lord Bobs 1901 Game Chick 1902 Rock Sand 1903 Henry the First 1904 Rouge Croix 1905 Picton 1906 My Pet 1907 Rhodora 1908 Bayardo 1909 Lemberg 1910 King William / Phryxus * 1911 White Star 1912 Louvois 1913 Kennymore 1914 Let Fly 1915 Atheling 1916 Telephus 1917 My Dear 1918 Knight of Blyth 1919 Prince Galahad 1920 no race 1921 Lembach 1922 Hurry Off 1923 Salmon-Trout

1924 Zionist 1925 Review Order 1926 Money Maker 1927 Toboggan 1928 Brienz 1929 Grace Dalrymple 1930 Sangre 1931 Firdaussi 1932 Hyperion 1933 Mrs Rustom 1934 Hairan 1935 Bala Hissar 1936 Sultan Mahomed 1937 Manorite 1938 Casanova 1939 no race 1940 Fettes 1941 Canyonero 1942 Umiddad 1943 Effervescence 1944 Paper Weight 1945 Hypericum 1946 Migoli 1947 Pride of India 1948 Royal Forest 1949 Emperor 1950 Turco II 1951 Marsyad 1952 Pinza 1953 Infatuation 1954 My Smokey 1955 Dacian 1956 Crepello 1957 Torbella 1958 Billum 1959 Ancient Lights 1960 Bounteous 1961 River Chanter 1962 Follow Suit 1963 King’s Lane 1964 Silly Season 1965 Pretendre 1966 Dart Board 1967 Hametus 1968 Ribofilio 1969 Nijinsky 1970 Mill Reef 1971 Crowned Prince 1972 Lunchtime

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1973 Cellini 1974 Grundy 1975 Wollow 1976 The Minstrel 1977 Try My Best 1978 Tromos 1979 Monteverdi 1980 Storm Bird 1981 Wind and Wuthering 1982 Diesis 1983 El Gran Senor 1984 Kala Dancer 1985 Huntingdale 1986 Ajdal 1987 no race 1988 Prince of Dance (dh) Scenic 1989 Dashing Blade 1990 Generous 1991 Dr Devious 1992 Zafonic 1993 Grand Lodge 1994 Pennekamp 1995 Alhaarth 1996 In Command 1997 Xaar 1998 Mujahid 1999 Distant Music 2000 Tobougg 2001 Rock of Gibraltar 2002 Tout Seul 2003 Milk It Mick 2004 Shamardal 2005 Sir Percy 2006 Teofilo 2007 New Approach 2008 Intense Focus 2009 Beethoven 2010 Frankel 2011 Parish Hall 2012 Dawn Approach 2013 War Command 2014 Belardo 2015 Air Force Blue 2016 Churchill 2017 U S Navy Flag 2018 Too Darn Hot

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HIGHLIGHTS THE RETURN OF THE JUMPS

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THE RETURN OF THE JUMPS HIGHLIGHTS

THE RETURN OF THE JUMPS

A LOOK AHEAD

Image supplied by Goffs

s the final hooves gallop past the winning post at ParisLongchamp on Arc Day, thoughts are already starting to turn towards the jumps season, as October often heralds the return to action of some of National Hunt’s leading lights. What a season we have in store, one filled with intrigue! Can Altior step up the three miles? Can Buveur D’Air join the select group of three-time Champion Hurdle winners? Can Tiger Roll emulate Red Rum with a third Grand National win? Altior, still unbeaten over fences and now a two-time Queen Mother Champion Chase winner, looks set to step up in trip this winter. Nicky Henderson is eyeing the King George VI Chase at Kempton Park, on Boxing Day – and a first try at three miles. Before then, Henderson could look to Ascot as a returning point for his superstar chaser. One thing is for sure, Altior won’t have things all his own way, as Champion Trainer Paul Nicholls is likely to send last year’s winner Clan Des Obeaux back to Kempton Park after his fine display last year. Also waiting in the wings is the formidable Willie Mullins team, with Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Al Boum Photo and the improving Punchestown Gold Cup winner Kemboy possible opponents. Other favourites still in the mix include Might Bite, Native River and Thistlecrack, while it will be fascinating to see how far Amy Murphy’s Kalashnikov will stay this winter. He seemed to appreciate the step up in trip when landing a Grade One at Aintree in April. The two-mile division has been dominated by the brilliant Altior in recent seasons and if he vacates his crowns this winter, Mullins might have an able replacement in the form of the exciting Chacun Pour Soir, an ex-French horse, who looked destined for the top at the Punchestown Festival in the spring.

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HIGHLIGHTS THE RETURN OF THE JUMPS Mullins can also still call upon the considerable talents of Douvan, Min and Un De Sceaux, while the grey Duc Des Genievres was impressive in landing the Arkle Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. The domestic challenge appears to be led by Cyrname, a horse who improved out of all recognition with some brilliant performances at Ascot last winter. The Paul Nicholls horse went from handicapper to Grade One winner, saving the best for last, as he won the Grade One Ascot Chase by a staggering 17 lengths from Waiting Patiently. Whilst that performance came over two miles and five furlongs, Cyrname could potentially drop in trip. Wherever he goes, racing fans will be fixated to their screens. The Champion Hurdle picture is a little less clear at the moment, following the sad loss of reigning champion Espoir D’Allen. His victory came somewhat out of the blue for many, with Buveur D’Air an early casualty at Cheltenham in March. However, the two-time champion is on the way back and was a brilliant winner of the Punchestown Champion Hurdle. Of the opposition, Klassical Dream, yet another from the Willie Mullins battalion, looked very smart as a novice, landing the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham and following up at Punchestown. Certainly there would appear to be room for a new star to emerge, with several contenders from recent years, such as Faugheen, Jezki, My Tent Or Yours and The New One either sidelined or now retired. Perhaps Nicky Henderson’s Triumph Hurdle winner Pentland Hills could make it back to back wins in the Champion Hurdle for five year-olds?

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The Stayers’ Hurdle division provided the romance last winter, as Paisley Park, owned by Andrew Gemmill, provided trainer Emma Lavelle and jockey Aidan Coleman, with first Grade One victories at Ascot – before landing the Stayers’ Hurdle itself at the Cheltenham Festival. The seven year-old showed consistency and improvement throughout last winter and old rival Sam Spinner is set to go chasing rather than taking him on again. If The Cap Fits, winner of the Liverpool Hurdle, is an interesting horse and connections appear keen to take on the reigning champion, while Nicky Henderson’s Champ looked a smart prospect last year and atoned for his Cheltenham defeat at Aintree.

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

The biggest story of all though, would be if Tiger Roll can win a third Grand National. This tenacious little warrior, a Triumph Hurdle winner in his youth, is all heart and craft around Cheltenham’s Cross Country Course and Aintree’s Grand National fences. He is likely to shoulder a huge weight burden and one wonders just how often he can go to the well, but despite his owner’s suggestions to the contrary, he is surely likely to return for a third crack and a bid for immortality next April. Once again, Willie Mullins is likely to put up stern opposition to Elliott and his Irish Grand National winner Burrows Saint, could well develop into a leading Aintree candidate. Other stories and horses we will be keeping an eye on include Frodon, who gave Bryony Frost a remarkably emotional success in the Ryanair Chase.

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THE RETURN OF THE JUMPS HIGHLIGHTS

Things went distinctly wrong for the Gigginstown star Samcro last winter, with a lung infection eventually diagnosed as the reason. Trainer Gordon Elliott was keen to campaign his 2018 Cheltenham Festival winner for the Champion Hurdle, but he never made it that far. It appears Samcro is likely to go chasing and if back to his best, he will be an exciting prospect. Apple’s Jade for much of last winter looked like a possible winner of the Champion Hurdle, but on the day, she was out of sorts. At her best, she remains capable of taking on and beating any competitor over hurdles and we look forward to seeing her brighten up the gloomiest winter afternoons once again. She is a joy to behold.

So too is Benie Des Dieux, who looked certain to land the Mares’ Hurdle at Cheltenham, before that sickening last flight fall. She remains a top talent and subsequently won at the Punchestown Festival and in Auteuil. A crack at the Ladbrokes Trophy, over fences, is one possible option for her. Paul Nicholls will once again have a formidable team throughout the winter and after a period of transition, a number of Grade One horses emerged last season. Clan Des Obeaux, Frodon and Politologue proved their class during the winter, while Topofthegame landed the RSA Chase and looks to be on course for the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Quel Destin and Grand Sancy showed real talent over hurdles last winter, while Black Corton, who recently ran well in the Galway Plate, will be back this winter. Colin Tizzard’s team go from strength to strength and Lostintranslation, second to Defi Du Seuil in the JLT Novices’ Chase, has long been thought of as a possible Gold Cup contender.

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

Reserve Tank was another to make a huge impression when winning at the Aintree and Punchestown Festivals last spring and he could be destined for stardom. The jumps season is always one filled with unexpected turns and its share of triumph and tragedy. One thing is for sure, it keeps us engrossed. Strap yourselves in for another roller-coaster ride of emotions over the coming months.

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FEATURE TATTERSALLS OCTOBERSALES

As the leaves turn to various hues of gold, the pulse begins to race for bloodstock and racing fans alike, with a magical series of sales and races. Newmarket has launched the Gold Season for 2019 which truly depicts the magnificent atmosphere, world class racing, outstanding sales and often glorious weather at a special time of the year. At Tattersalls, expectations will be high once again as the October Yearling Sales get underway, with Book 1 and Book 2 in particular, attracting the very best in bloodstock and buyers and sellers from around the world. Course Specialist was delighted to speak recently with Jason Singh, Marketing Manager at Tattersalls, ahead of these keenlyanticipated sales.

What dates does the July Sale take place this year? The Tattersalls July Sale takes from July 10th - 12th.

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When did the October Sales first take place?

The October Yearling Sale has been going for many decades although the creation of Book 1 of the October Yearling Sale as Europe’s premier yearling sale started in 2004 when the sale superseded the Houghton Yearling Sale which had its last year in 2003.

What is the history and what have been the standout highlights in the history of the Sales?

The highest priced yearling filly ever sold was undoubtedly a highlight when the Galileo filly out of Alluring Park sold for 5 million guineas in 2013. The sale has also produced the top priced yearling in the World for the last seven years.

What dates do the Sales take place in 2019

Book 1 of the October Yearling Sale takes place from October 8-10, with Book 2 taking place October 14 - 16 and then Book 3 on October 17 - 18 and Book 4 on October 18.

How many horses will go through the sales ring during October?

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October 2019

THIS MAN... has trained EIGHT BOOK 1 BONUS WINNERS

purchased for an average price of 84,000gns £25,000 Tattersalls October Book 1 Bonus only at

TATTERSALLS OCTOBER YEARLING SALE, Book 1 OCTOBER 8 – 10 T: +44 1638 665931 sales@tattersalls.com www.tattersalls.com

FEATURE TATTERSALLS OCTOBER SALES

In total about 2,000 yearlings over the two weeks of selling.

Tell me about the Book 1 highlight; when does this take place and what makes this event stand out each year?

Book 1 of the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale is arguably the number one yearling sale in the world and the sale attracts the cream of the European yearling crop. That in turn attracts buyers from all over the world, who want to buy the finest colts and fillies from the best families on the market.

Is Book 1 exclusive to yearlings and how are they selected?

Yes, it is Europe’s premier yearling sale and the process of selection starts in the early spring when they start inspection of more than 5,000 yearlings. Those yearlings are then placed in the sale that we think will suit them best to maximise their return.

How many months of preparation go into the Book 1 Sale?

We start taking entries in January and February and the process for cataloguing all of the Books of the October Yearling Sale starts then although it’s only in June and July that we start to pull it all together prior to going to print in early August.

Bataash and Blue Point were graduates of Book 1 who landed Group One races in 2019. Which top class racehorses have gone through the Book 1 Sales down the years?

The sale gets a plethora of top class racehorses every year with Tattersalls Irish 2,000 Guineas winner PHOENIX OF SPAIN flying the flag this year, but there have been plenty of Derby winners come from the sale including AUSTRALIA and CAMELOT. BLUE POINT, FAIRYLAND and JAPAN have also scored at the highest level in 2019. © www.tattersalls.com

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TATTERSALLS OCTOBER SALES FEATURE Which new stallions do you believe will make their mark in the coming weeks?

There are plenty of exciting young stallions at the moment, with MUHAARAR, GLENEAGLES, NIGHT OF THUNDER and CABLE BAY all making their presence felt and there will undoubtedly be others amongst the first season sires to show up in the future.

What were the standout sales in 2018 and have any of these yearlings gone on to make a significant mark as two year-olds?

After the October Yearling Sale there is a week off, so to speak, followed by the Autumn Horses in Training Sale. After that we have the two week long December Sale made up of a day of Yearlings, four days of foals and four days of breeding stock.

There were 14 yearlings that realised 1,000,000 guineas or more in 2018 which is a pretty remarkable level and they have included MOGUL who cost 3.4m guineas who won the Group 2 Champions Juvenile Stakes and looks exciting. The Group 2 May Hill Stakes winner POWERFUL BREEZE was a 50,000 guineas purchase and there are any number of exciting winners out there who will undoubtedly make the mark on the Pattern in the months to come and next year.

Is there a Bonus on offer this year and what is it?

Yes, the £25,000 October Book 1 Bonus is open only to graduates of Book 1 of the October Yearling Sale and gives owners a unique chance to earn fantastic prize money just by winning their Maiden or Novice race as a two-year-old. So far we have paid out 183 bonuses over the four years of the scheme for more than £4.5m guineas.

Upon reflection, in the year to date, has 2019 been a good year or a challenging one for the bloodstock industry?

The bloodstock market in Europe and specifically the UK has been booming during the last couple of years and the quality of stallions standing in Europe is strong than it has been for decades. There are plenty of overseas buyers who are attracted to buy bloodstock here as a result. But there is also the problem of overproduction that has undoubtedly been a challenge for everyone over the last couple of years.

What are your hopes for the industry in 2020 and what do you see as the big challenges ahead?

The uncertainty over Brexit obviously is making business more difficult at the moment, and resolving that will at least provide some certainty. The number of yearlings being bought to market has also presented challenges and we are working hard to try and find buyers both at the top and bottom of the market. For more information please visit: www.tattersalls.com

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Where is it located and how many acres does the stud and facilities cover? What advantages do you have from the location?

Hunting Hill Stud The recent fine effort from Magic Dawn, in a big Newmarket handicap, underlined the growing prowess hailing from Hunting Hill Stud. Located in Castletownroche, in Fermoy, County Cork, the stud farm covers almost 100 acres. Run by Connor Quirke and Kathryn Birch, the stud farm has a long history. Course Specialist recently caught up with Conor to get a flavour for the challenges and exciting aims for Hunting Hill Stud.

Who does what at Hunting Hill Stud?

Kathryn Birch and myself run the farm day to day, with my father Walter assisting with the bovine and tillage portion of the farm. It’s very much a family affair and we concentrate on the unparalleled one-on-one treatment of the horses. We own and run the farm but have no set titles!

What is the history of Hunting Hill Stud and how did it get its name?

The name of the property originated in the 17th century when the property served as a deer farm for the neighbouring Annes Grove estate. We are just writing the latest chapter of what has been a rich history. The property itself is steeped in family history. The Quirke name has been over the door for close on 300 years now, the old house, which would have been the main dwelling up until the middle of the last century, still stands proudly in the middle of the yard, so it is hard to forget the blood, sweat and tears that have been shed to improve the place. My great grand uncle left the farm in the late 1800’s to become a priest in America, himself a venerable horseman. His photo still adorns the mantelpiece; the story goes that he traded horses with famed outlaw Jesse James!

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We’re based in the Blackwater Valley in North Cork, on rich limestone land spanning close to 100 acres. The farm has been nurtured as a rich arable and livestock unit up to our takeover. We still keep an angus herd and crop production ensures we produce our own top quality straw bedding along with our own hay. We can take very little credit for the great management of previous generations, the rewards of which we are reaping today! We are very lucky to be situated in a thoroughbred breeding hotbed and as a result we have access to the very best of farrier and veterinary care. To date, investment, conversion and refurbishment has already taken place to ensure that peak results can be achieved by the equine residents! Our main asset is the broad exposure and experience myself and Kathryn have gathered globally, also our low stocking rate allows us to grant greater individual treatment to our residents.

What facilities do you have, how many employees - and what are the primary functions of the stud?

We are very much a family run entity. Myself and Kathryn tend to the day to day care of all the animals. We are present for all foalings and just about every first thereafter! My father Walter is never too far away and his agricultural and animal husbandry knowledge is invaluable, whilst not a horseman, he has thrived on his late introduction to the thoroughbred! We have refurbished and customised old stables and converted the majority of existing buildings for the benefit of the horses, including a purpose built foaling box and vetting area. Plans are afoot to install a horse walker and lunge ring but for now we are concentrating on consolidating the quality of our stock, which, on a budget is no mean feat!

How many horses do you have based there?

At the moment our own herd numbers twelve, including young stock. That swelled during the breeding season as we took on some clients, which happily resulted in a 100% conception rate! We are in our infancy having bought two mares at the sales in late 2017, with one foal born here last year and four this year (of which only one was conceived here). We are excited for next year’s crop which will be the first which has been conceived on the farm and contains some exciting matings.

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HUNTING HILL STUD FEATURE What are the economic challenges you face?

Obviously trying to generate income to run the farm and invest simultaneously has been difficult but it is a passion and with this year’s crop headed for the sales very soon, opportunities abound! It is said that breeders are selling the dream, however I am certainly a dreamer myself ! We stand over the fact that we do not breed anything we wouldn’t be happy to race ourselves so hopefully not too many economic challenges await us in the future!

Has Brexit had an impact? Tell me about your own background, were you raised with horses and what work have you done prior to joining Hunting Hill Stud?

My father took over the farm soon after I was born and obviously my exposure to animals and farming has stood me in good stead. It was not until much later that I developed a passion for horse racing. A memorable gamble on Hurricane Fly certainly helped me to delve deeper into the complexity of racing. Having completed an equine course in 2014 I was lucky enough to work with Tony Williams (now Managing Director of Goffs UK) in Australia, I couldn’t have learned from a better man at that early stage! Kathryn grew up around horses, her family kept exracehorses and her love and empathy for animals meant she was always destined to work with them in some capacity. She completed a stint at the British Racing School along with spells at Donald McCain and Paul Green. Following an injury received from a fall she was forced to take a sabbatical from racing. We subsequently met on the National Stud breeding course in 2015. From there we completed consecutive breeding seasons in both hemispheres working at world renowned farms including Arrowfield Stud, Yarraman Park, Gilltown Stud, Haunui Farm and Lanes End farm among others. Working in all facets of operations the world over has been amazing, it’s a tremendous industry for young people.

I think it is more the uncertainty of Brexit which has cast a slight shadow over us but we are part of a very resilient industry and greener pastures are never far away.

What for you are the secrets of your success?

Passion, positive attitude and a genuine love for the animal! Kathryn is also somewhat of a perfectionist!

From your time travelling what are the main things you have learned?

Each nation views the horse differently and ours is a blend of what we feel has been done best. The horse is a flight animal and roams wild naturally and for us, that is the key, creating a natural and safe environment for the horses to develop. We are blessed with a perfect habitat to grow out youngstock and we harness that to get the best results.

What are the biggest successes you have enjoyed to date?

Obviously for a small fledgling operation on a limited budget, the victories have been small to date. We believe we have been astute in our early purchases but the market will soon judge us! Our clients’ positive response to early results are definitely rewarding. course-specialist.co.uk

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FEATURE HUNTING HILL STUD

While it is a very fickle market, I believe fashion is temporary and class is permanent. “Hope value” is just that and nothing can take away from achievements gained by a proven stallion or a blacktype relation. Thoroughbred breeding is not a “get rich quick” scheme and in the long run it pays to breed for the racetrack as opposed to the sales ring. Outcross mares and stallions hold a very important place in the breed moving forward!

The prime example L can draw on is the contrast of yearlings wintered in Kentucky against those wintered in Florida. The Floridian yearlings were obviously more forward in their coats but on average had less established “bone” through there foreleg. This is assumed to be down to the lower impact sandy soils of Florida against the bedrock of Kentucky! It sounds complicated but without nature, it is harder to nurture and thankfully we have the ideal environment here at Hunting Hill. Since taking over Hunting Hill Stud, what have been the main things you have learned or adapted? Having previously been a livestock farm we have primarily replaced fencing and refurbished buildings for the use of horses.

Are there particular bloodlines or stallions that attract you?

We have mares sired by what some would consider obscure stallions! Pedigree analysis and nicking is a personal passion. Matings are not taken lightly and each sales catalogue is pored over for hours. We took time to visit farms around the world and view stallions at every opportunity, our perspective is truly global.

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What can we look forward to from Hunting Hill Stud over the coming months/year?

This season will see our maiden consignment at the sales. Hopefully we will have four homebred foals heading to the sales, including a half brother to highly rated Majestic Dawn and a full sister to the exciting Reloaded. Quickly following on from that will be a busy foaling season, as the cycle repeats itself ! Hoping to welcome another crop of exciting prospects.

What are your hopes and aims for the next five years?

As our first homebred crops reach racing age it will be great to see all our efforts come to fruition. Consistent growth and development of the farm and client base would be great.

Where can people find out more about Hunting Hill Stud?

We have a Facebook page for all updates on the farm and we would be happy to field any enquiries at huntinghillstud@gmail.com

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AS OF 19-9-19

Shamardal has sired 139 Stakes winners. One more than Sadler’s Wells at the same age. He gets 12% Stakes

BluePoint.

Darley

NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES

ARQANA SUMMER SALE KICKS OFF The opening session of the 2019 Summer Sale saw 165 breeze-up 2yo, 2 and 3yo stores go under the hammer of which 130 were sold, an excellent clearance rate of 79% comparing to last year’s 62%. Aggregate of the day reached €3,589,500, a 7% increase from 2018.

SOLID NATIONAL HUNT SECTION The top price of the day was knocked down for €130,000 to Bertrand Le Métayer. Lot 114 Darano, a 2yo gelding offered by Haras de l’Isle Verte, will be trained by Arnaud Chaillé-Chaillé like his full brother, Diego du Charmil, winner of the Doom Bar Maghull Novices’ Chase. The 2yo full brother to Very Wood, lot 97, was purchased for €115,000 by the day’s leading buyer Margaret O’Toole standing with Roger Marley. The grey gelding by Martaline was offered by Haras de l’Hotellerie. Nicolas De Lageneste had the last word for this No Risk At All 2yo, lot 84 offered by Haras des Loges. The filly’s beautiful page includes top class performers such as SAINT DU CHENET, TANAIS DU CHENET, GALANT MOSS, IRIS ROYAL, MA ROYALE. Nicolas De Lageneste said: She is a very classy filly with a good walk. I love her dam line, I hope to see her at Auteuil, she will be trained by Anne-Sophie Pacault. The day’s leading vendor, Haras des Loges also brought to the ring lot 82 a son of Doctor Dino who was secured for €77,000 by Paul Basquin from Haras de Saubouas also the buyer of lot 117, a daughter of Network for €40,000. Highflyer Bloodstock purchased five lots including lot 102 a 2yo son of Saint Des Saints from The Channel Consignment for €70,000. Arqana’s Scandinavian rep Morten Buskop was also very active buying five lots topped by a 2yo son of Camelot from Guy Cherel €67,000 (lot 136). Joffret Huet was busy buying six lots for British clients and he had a crush for lot 153, a 2yo son of

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Spanish Moon from the Haras des Loges for which he had to stretched to €65,000. The Doyle family from Monbeg Stables in Ireland made their presence felt purchasing six lots for a total of €212,000 including a pair of 2yo geldings by No Risk At All and Masked Marvel, for €60,000 each.

SIX FIGURES TOP PRICE FOR THE BREEZE UP SESSION Lot 12, a daughter of Siyouni, was secured for €110,000 by Paul Nataf. The chesnut filly offered by Windmill Stables is out of Rockfel Stakes winner, AL THAKHIRA.

MOONLIGHT CLOUD HALF-SISTER TOPS DAY TWO OF ARQANA SUMMER SALE The final day of the Summer Sale, featuring the total of 215 lots among which 7 Wild Cards, returned the aggregate of €4,206,000. Cumulated figures for the two-day sale held rather steady against their 2018 counterparts with total turnover reaching €7,798,500 and average price of €26,169. This year, the Summer Sale registered the record clearance rate of 78%.

TOP PRICE FOR THE HALF-SISTER TO MOONLIGHT CLOUD The sale started with the broodmares and maidens section that brought a total of €1,357,000, an increase of 38 % in comparison to last year result, and the average settled at €21,203. The Top Price of the section was knocked down at €380,000 for lot 210 FLORET, an unraced daughter of Galileo, a full sister of Cedar Mountain and a half-sister to Champion Moonlight Cloud. After a busy previous day, Paul Basquin (Haras du Saubouas) was also active shopping two broodmares. The first one, lot 252, KELTY IN LOVE was offered by the Haras des Faunes and made €80,000, with her filly by Wootton Bassett at foot.

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS His second purchase reached €90,000, a daughter of Sea The Stars, lot 263 BOSCASTLE, a young mare in foal to Caravaggio with lot of black type winners in France and America on the page. Lot 261, group placed CONTESSA DU BARRY, attracted a lot of interest from all around the ring but it was Eric Feurtet who had the last word at €100,000.

STRONG OPENING TO TATTERSALLS JULY SALE

Flanagan, who secured the filly after seeing off Badgers Bloodstock’s Grant Pritchard-Gordon, commented: “She is a lovely, athletic filly and, of course, is a half to a promising young sire in Zoustar, however what is really important is that she is a daughter of Galileo. “It does not matter on what side of the pedigree he is - as a sire or a broodmare sire, whether it is an unraced filly, a moderate performer or a top-class filly, he has such an influence, even just last week he got another Group 1 winner as a broodmare sire in Australia. “I think I have been guilty in the past of not buying enough Galileo fillies – if you have a farm you have Galileo blood. Of future plans for the filly, Flanagan said: “The first thing we wanted to do was secure her, then we will think of plans, but she will probably go to the Southern Hemisphere. We have not yet decided whether she will be covered in the Northern or Southern Hemisphere – wherever we will not have a problem sorting a stallion for her!”

The Tattersalls July Sale got off to a strong start on the opening day with a record price for a filly of 420,000 guineas for AT LAST and the third highest priced colt/gelding to be sold at the sale with ADMIRAL ROUS realising 325,000 guineas early in the evening.

SISTER TO ZOUSTAR SELLS FOR 420,000 GUINEAS The Wildcard lot AT LAST became the highest priced filly ever sold at the Tattersalls July Sale when knocked down to Mick Flanagan for 420,000 Guineas. The three-year-old GALILEO filly is out of the REDOUTE’S CHOICE mare ZOUZOU and is a half-sister to the dual Australian Group 1 winner and exciting young sire ZOUSTAR.

A regular fixture at the Tattersalls July Sale is Qatari trainer Jassim Ghazali and he secured the Groupplaced colt ADMIRAL ROUS for 325,000 guineas after seeing off agent Oliver St Lawrence, stood alongside Fawzi Nass. The son of HENRITHENAVIGATOR has already had experience of Qatar when running fourth in the Al Biddah Cup in February for trainer Eoghan O’Neill. “I have, of course, seen him before and I think he suits racing in Qatar,” said Ghazali. “He finished fourth and was too far back – I think I can help him improve. He might be one for the ITM Cup at the international meeting next February.” Ghazali added: “I bought Tawahid from the same consignor and he has done well for me.” Tawahid was bought at the 2018 Tattersalls July Sale for 75,000 guineas and has since won five races in Qatar.

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES

O’BRIEN SECURED PATRICK SARSFIELD FOR 230,000 GUINEAS Patrick Sarsfield, who was consigned to the Tattersalls July Sale by The Castlebridge Consignment, had only run twice as a two-year-old but the form of those races ensured that he was in great demand, eventually being knocked down to Joseph O’Brien for 230,000 guineas. The son of AUSTRALIA out of the LAWMAN mare ULTRA APPEAL raced for trainer Edward Lynam last year and finished behind subsequent Group 1 Derby runner-up MADHMOON and Group 1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud runner-up SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE, on his only two starts. “It is a bit back ago, but his form has worked out well,” said O’Brien. “He should make up into a good middle-distance horse for next year and his sire Australia has done well. He has been bought for a client in the yard.”

REILLY SECURES SHADWELL FILLY WAMATHAAT BBA Ireland’s Eamonn Reilly secured the threeyear-old SPEIGHTSTOWN filly offered from Shadwell Estate’s draft for 220,000 guineas. The daughter of the UNBRIDLED’S SONG mare SPECIAL ME is a half-sister to the Grade 1 Santa Anita Handicap winner GIFT BOX and the Grade 2 winning and Grade 1 placed STONETASTIC as well as to SPECIAL FORCES, second in the Grade 3 Dominion Day Stakes at Woodbine since the catalogued was published. “She is for Newtown Anner Stud,” said Reilly. “I saw her on Monday and I loved her and I love her pedigree – for me, she is the pick of the breeding stock on offer here. “She has a strong US pedigree that has also had an update. She will be going to Kentucky.”

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FURTHER STRONG TRADE ON DAY TWO OF THE TATTERSALLS JULY SALES

The Tattersalls July Sale continued in robust fashion on the second day with Middle Eastern buyers dominating the horses in training trade. A remarkable 95% of lots offered found new homes.

GHAZALI STRIKES AGAIN FOR MR DIAMOND Qatari trainer Jassim Ghazali continued his spending spree when going to 100,000 guineas to secure the three-year-old MR DIAMOND. The son of BATED BREATH was knocked down to Ghazali after he saw off Jamie Lloyd, stood with Qatari trainer Stefano Ibido. Bloodstock agent Will Douglass, who is working with Ghazali, said: “We like the horse a lot, we like his profile – he was third last time to a horse called Awe, who was subsequently fourth in the Britannia and has been sold to Hong Kong. “We like buying from Richard Fahey too.”

TRAIN TO GEORGIA TO DUBAI The joint sale topper came late in the evening when TRAIN TO GEORGIA was knocked down to Al Rashed Racing for 100,000 guineas. Sold by Tuite Racing on behalf of Matt Morgan, the threeyear-old son of SCAT DADDY was an impressive winner on debut in March and was placed second over ten furlongs since the catalogue was printed.

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS Racing manager to Al Rashed Racing, Tariq Moubarak, was in charge of bidding and commented; “He is going to Dubai. We watched him win and we liked that. He is by Scat Daddy and should suit Dubai. “Al Rashed Racing is a new owner and has ten horses in Britain with Peter Chapple-Hyam, Richard Fahey and Richard Hughes.”

85,000 GUINEAS FOR CURRENT OPTION CURRENT OPTION from William Haggas’ Somerville Lodge draft made 85,000 guineas when selling to Stephen Thorne of Shamrock Thoroughbreds who was acting on behalf of Dooley Bloodstock. The three-year-old son of CAMELOT has been very consistent on the racecourse, placing on every outing and was a winner over seven furlongs since the catalogue was printed. Thorne, who also assists trainer Adrian McGuinness, commented: “Current Option was the pick of the sale for me and he came highly recommended. This is the sort of horse that we want in the yard and we need to go out and buy them.” Dooley Bloodstock is made up of three brothers – Mark, David and James. The siblings are from Manchester but have their horses trained in Ireland with McGuinness.

FRONTMAN HEADS TO QATAR Another horse in training heading to Qatar is the KINGMAN colt FRONTMAN who was knocked down to Jamie Lloyd of Meah/Lloyd Bloodstock. The Juddmonte Farms offering, who has run twice for trainer John Gosden, realised 80,000 guineas. “We were getting a little frustrated!” smiled Lloyd, “but we are delighted to get this horse. “He had a setback as a two-year-old, but has run twice now and looked very promising, only just touched the surface with him. He vetted very well. “He is going to Qatar to be trained by Stefano Ibido for Abdulhadi Mana Al Hajri. We bought Beachwalk here last year from Sir Michael Stoute

and he went on to win the Amir Shalfa. “Stefano really loved this horse and was his pick.”

CRYSTAL TRIBE HEADING TO CALIFORNIA Meah / Lloyd Bloodstock Jamie Lloyd struck again soon after securing FRONTMAN, this time spending 82,000 guineas on CRYSTAL TRIBE, a two-time winner since the beginning of June. Previously owned and bred by Lord LloydWebber, the DANSILI colt is out of the Group 1 Fillies’ Mile winner and Group 1 Irish 1,000 Guineas runner-up, CRYSTAL MUSIC. He was consigned from William Haggas’ Somerville Lodge. “He’ll be heading to California to be trained by Jeff Mullins,” said purchaser Jamie Lloyd. “We’ve had some luck with Jeff in the past, we bought Battle Of Hastings here a long time ago and he won everything over there as a three-year-old. He seems to be very progressive and ahead of the handicapper. “My business partner, David Meah, loved the horse and loved his replays so we’re very happy to have him. “He’s one Jeff can go on with and the plan will be for him to run in Del Mar, where he’ll be eligible for the valuable ‘Ship And Win’ bonus - they run for 40 per cent more when they run outside of the state.”

450,000 GUINEAS NEW KING TOPS STRONG TATTERSALLS JULY SALE The Tattersalls July Sale concluded with NEW KING and INVERLEIGH selling for 450,000 guineas and 350,000 guineas respectively, resulting in increases across the board and four of the top ten prices in the history of the sale.

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES

NEW KING SELLS FOR 450,000 GUINEAS AND HEADS TO AUSTRALIA The three-year-old FRANKEL colt NEW KING became the second highest price sale ever at the Tattersalls July on Friday when he was knocked down to Australian agent James Harron for 450,000 guineas. An eight-length winner on his most recent start for owner/breeders Qatar Racing, the colt out of the DESERT PRINCE mare MARINE BLEUE attracted the interest of a multitude of buyers including Rabbah Bloodstock’s Jono Mills and Qatari trainer Jassim Ghazali. But it was Harron who prevailed on behalf of an Australianbased syndicate. “We had selected this horse in the catalogue and I came specifically for him, he is for a group of Australian clients,” said Harron. “I was really pleased when I saw him, he has been well minded and he is a lovely horse. “He is on a Timeform rating of 113p, which is comparable to some of the horses that have come to Australia from Europe and have done well. He has a great profile. “We have not yet got a trainer in mind yet, and we are just working out a programme now – whether we ship him now and then run straight off the plane and give him a break, or maybe leave him in the Northern Hemisphere for now. His profile certainly means that he can run straight off in some of the bigger races in Australia.”

RABBAH STRIKE TO SECURE INVERLEIGH The recent Group 3 Ballycorus Stakes runner-up INVERLEIGH was knocked down to Rabbah Bloodstock’s Jono Mills for 350,000 guineas during the final session of the Tattersalls July Sale after a prolonged battle with Dubaian trainer Ahmed bin Harmash. The son of EXCELEBRATION, who won a Listed race back in April and has an official rating of 104, was consigned to the sale by partowner Michael Downey.

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Downey said: “I and Peter Kavanagh bought him as a foal to consign as a yearling, but for various reasons he missed his yearling sale. Peter’s son Roderick broke him in and we decided to keep him. “Roderick and then trainer Ger Lyons have done a great job with the horse. He is athletic and everyone who saw him here loved him.” Of the decision to sell today, Downey said: “We are traders so he was always going to be sold.”

QATAR STRIKE FOR PROGRESSIVE MAKE A WISH One of the fillies in great demand at the Tattersalls July Sale was the three-year-old MAKE A WISH who won over seven furlongs at Sandown last weekend for trainer Simon Crisford. The Michael Tabor owned daughter of NO NAY NEVER was knocked down to Qatari trainer Jassim Ghazali for 160,000 guineas, stood alongside agent Will Douglass. “She won well at the weekend and it takes some doing to win a handicap on Eclipse day,” said Douglass. “She has some quality, is by a good stallion and she should appreciate the fast ground in Qatar and running around a bend – there might be some more improvement in her. There is a good programme for her in Qatar.”

CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT At the conclusion of the 2019 Tattersalls July Sale, Tattersalls Chairman Edmond Mahony commented; “This has been another strong renewal of the Tattersalls July Sale. Two lots selling for more than 400,000 guineas for the first time at this fixture, a record July price for a filly in training and improved figures in all the key indicators of turnover, average, median and clearance rate are about as many positives as one could wish for. “As is so often the case at Tattersalls, the most obvious features have been the depth to the trade and the uniquely international cast of buyers all of whom have contributed to the extraordinary clearance rate

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October 2019

BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS of 93%. Domestic British and Irish buyers have been prominent and every sector of the market has been further boosted by international demand, which has included the sale topping 450,000 guineas three year old colt NEW KING who was purchased by leading Australian based bloodstock agent James Harron, the prolific buying of our loyal buyers from the Gulf region and a particularly strong contingent of buyers from Greece. There have been buyers at Park Paddocks this week from more than 30 different countries and it is a source of pride that many of them would view Tattersalls as their primary, if not only source of thoroughbreds year after year. “We are constantly travelling the world looking to explore new markets or expand existing ones and sales like this year’s July Sale suggest that the Tattersalls brand is as strong as ever and that the July Sale remains firmly established as Europe’s premier midsummer sale.”

INCREASES ACROSS THE BOARD AT TATTERSALLS ASCOT JULY SALE Two horses shared the top prices at Tattersalls Ascot July Sale selling for £55,000 a piece. The sale concluded with gains across the board; the aggregate rose 96% to £982,700, whilst the average of £8,121 showed an impressive increase of 93%. The clearance rate was a healthy 81%.

Invincible Spirit filly who boasts a strong Australian pedigree, was purchased by agent Johnny McKeever for £55,000. Winter Sky was consigned by the days’ leading vendor Godolphin, who sold 14 horses for a total of £266,500 and an average of £19,036. In quick succession, Irish trainer Peter Fahey’s Roefield Stables sold Bumper performers Jinsha and Bathiva as the next two highest priced lots. Jinsha (Lot 109), a Presenting mare who was placed 2nd recently in a Worcester Bumper, was sold to Mark Goggins for £50,000. Just one lot before, trainer David Dennis secured Bathiva (Lot 108A) for £46,000. The Spanish Moon gelding was placed twice in Bumper company and once in a Maiden Hurdle. At the conclusion of the sale, Matt Prior, Head of Tattersalls Ascot Sales commented; “The demand for quality continues to be strong at the Tattersalls Ascot Sales. A catalogue containing Flat and National Hunt horses attracted a large contingent of domestic and international purchasers, including those from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait and Qatar. The day’s trade continued the market trends from the Tattersalls July Sale last week, and we look forward to returning on Tuesday 20th August for the Tattersalls Ascot August Sale.”

RED ARMADA TOPS GOFFS UK GOODWOOD SALE The second Goffs UK Goodwood Sale at the ‘Glorious’ Qatar Goodwood Festival was topped by the race winning three year-old Red Armada who sold to Lillingston Bloodstock for £275,000.

The first lot to lead the way at Tattersalls Ascot July Sale was the consistent performer Magic Dancer (Lot 56). A four-time winner and Graded placed over hurdles, was secured for £55,000. Consigned by The Bell House Stables (Miss K. Lee), the Norse Dancer gelding was sold to K & J Bloodstock. Claiming joint top honours at the Tattersalls Ascot July Sale was Lot 80, Winter Sky. The course-specialist.co.uk

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES The son of Invincible Spirit came to the sale following a smart win on his most recent start at Ascot for trainer Clive Cox and was one of seven horses offered in the sale. Karl Burke’s Group winning filly Little Kim, who was offered in foal to Showcasing, also featured in the results when selling to Howson & Houldsworth Bloodstock for £200,000.

AGA KHAN STUD’S HASANABAD TOPS BUOYANT GOFFS AUGUST SALE TRADE A recent win at last week’s Galway Festival propelled the Aga Khan Studs consigned Hasanabad to the top of many short lists and he duly delivered on his anticipated date with the Doncaster sale ring when topping today’s Goffs UK August Sale. The four-year-old son of Nathaniel (Lot 196), now the winner of two of his five starts, attracted bids from around the ring before being knocked down to Goffs UK Horses-in-Training Agent Richard Ryan for £230,000. The sale attracted a good draft of Irish pointers which set the early tone for the horses-in-training session with Denis Murphy’s dual placed pointer The Bosses Oscar (Lot 141) selling to Aidan O’Ryan and Gordon Elliott for £75,000. That price was matched later in the day with Iain Jardine Racing’s five-time winner Marnie James (Lot 232) selling to Jedd O’Keeffe. The sale also offered the second and final instalment of the Grech & Parkin Dispersal with their seven lots topped by the Listed winning mare Pumped Up Kicks (Lot 75), who was sold with a colt Pether’s Moon colt foal at foot, for £38,000.

TOP LOT OF E80000 ON DAY ONE OF THE TATTERSALLS IRELAND AUGUST NH SALE Day one of the August NH Sale saw a top price of €80,000, an average price of €10,443, a median of €6,200 and an aggregate of €1,879,650 for 180 lots sold. The session’s top price was given by Donnchadh Doyle of Monbeg Stables for Lot 92, a Davidoff full-

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brother to two black-type horses, the most notable being Abacadabras. He finished second in the 2019 Punchestown Grade 1 Champion INH Flat race and fourth in the Cheltenham Festival Champion Bumper for trainer Gordon Elliott after he made a career-winning debut. “He is a full-brother to a very promising horse, who will hopefully help us out early in the season,” said Doyle of his new purchase already named Texxas sold by Moanmore Stables. “He is a very good-looking horse and a very good mover. He’ll go pointing and will be for resale.” Bloodstock agent Tom Malone was on the phone to Marie McGuinness as Lot 187 went through the ring. Malone gave bid-winning instructions to McGuinness and the pair were successful at €72,000 for the Westerner half-brother to the Listed-placed Kilbarry Way (Lot 187). A €14,000 foal pinhook from Kilbarry Lodge Stud, the May-born gelding was sold by White Horse Stud. Malone said: “He is a lovely horse by a proven sire. I am very taken with the pedigree, it is a big plus. He missed the Derby Sale due to a minor setback and I was very keen to get him today.” The gelding, bought by Malone on behalf of trainer Paul Nicholls, is out of a half-sister to Racing Demon, runner-up in the Royal & Sun Alliance Hurdle, winner of the King Henry VIII Novice Chase, twice a winner of the Peterborough Chase and third in the King George VI Chase and Ascot Chase. It is also the family of black-type winners Abolitionist, Askanna and the multiple Grade 1 winning chaser Merry Gale and Grade 1 hurdler Brave Inca.

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October 2019

BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS

CALYX RETIRES TO COOLMORE Smart sprinter Calyx has been retired to stud and has been purchased by Coolmore, with owner/ breeder Juddmonte Farms, retaining an interest in the three year-old. The son of Kingman made an exciting debut at Newmarket, in June 2018. Only ten days later, he made an equally exciting impression in the Group Two Coventry Stakes, finishing miles clear of his stands’ side rivals and beating Advertise by a length. However, a setback ended his juvenile career at that point. Calyx was not seen out again until landing the Listed Pavillion Stakes at Ascot by four lengths. Connections had mulled a crack at the Qipco 2,000 Guineas over a mile, but elected instead to keep the colt at six furlongs.

His warm-up race for the Group One Commonwealth Cup was Haydock Park’s Group Two Sandy Lane Stakes, but Calyx picked up an injury which saw him miss Royal Ascot, as he trailed in 3 ¼ lengths behind Hello Youmzain. Gosden said in a statement: “Calyx always had that rare brilliance you only see in champions. His performances at Ascot at both two and three were of the highest standard. “He’s a very similar type to his sire Kingman and with both Coolmore and Juddmonte supporting him at stud he will be given the best possible opportunity to succeed as a stallion.” Coolmore’s director of sales David O’Loughlin said: “We’re thrilled to get Calyx. He had an explosive turn of foot, as did his sire Kingman, while

his dam is a Group-winning two-year-old and a full-sister to a Group 1-winning sprinter. “He’s a quality individual too so he has the complete package.”

1,000 GUINEAS WINNER NATAGORA PASSES AWAY Former 1,000 Guineas winner Natagora has passed away at the age of fourteen. The Shadwell Stud-owned grey daughter of Divine Light was put down on humane grounds after a deterioration of an ongoing health issue. Trained by Pascal Bary for the late Stefan Friborg, Natagora proved a smart juvenile, winning the Listed Prix La Fleche, Group 3 Prix du Bois and Group 2 Prix Robert Papin. She later ran second to Myboycharlie in the Group One Prix Morny. Natagora created a huge impression when making all the running to beat Fleeting Spirit in the Group One Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket. Her three year-old career saw Natagora step up in trip and land the Prix Imprudence at Maisons-Laffitte, before she made all the running at Newmarket again, winning the Group One 1,000 Guineas. For one with such speed at two, Natagora had plenty of stamina and ran third behind Vision D’Etat and Famous Name in the Prix du Jockey Club. Dropped back to a mile, she finished second to Tamayuz in the Group One Prix Jacques le Marois and filled the same spot behind Paco Boy in the Group One Prix de la Foret. Having retired from racing, Natagora was sold privately to join the Shadwell broodmare band, for whom she produced three winners for Hamdan Al Maktoum’s operation: Rayaheen (by Nayef ), later the dam of Sweet Solera Stakes scorer Tajaanus; Raaqy (by Dubawi), who notched a black-type placing; and Mankib (by Tamayuz), who has been successful at Listed level. Shadwell Stud director Richard Lancaster paid tribute to the mare by saying: “Natagora was an exceptional talent for her previous owner on the racecourse, winning both the Cheveley Park Stakes and 1,000 Guineas.

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES “Although she has so far failed to replicate her racecourse feats as a broodmare, we are lucky to have several daughters to continue her legacy, headed by Rayaheen, who produced the Group 3-winning two-year-old Tajaanus.” Shadwell have plenty to look forward to with Natagora’s young progeny too. She leaves a twoyear-old colt by Invincible Spirit, named Haidarah and in training with Owen Burrows, along with a Frankel yearling filly and a Sea The Stars colt foal. Natagora won seven times from 15 career starts.

JAPANESE SUPERSTAR DEEP IMPACT PASSES AWAY The Japanese racing and bloodstock communities are in mourning, following the passing of superstar racehorse and stallion Deep Impact, at the age of seventeen. Best known in Europe for his bid to land the 2006 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, the son of Sunday Silence, out of Wind In Her Hair, quickly rose to prominence in Japan. He landed his first seven races, including the Japanese Triple Crown and ran well when third behind Rail Link in the Arc, although later disqualified when a banned substance was detected. A few weeks later, Deep Impact won the Japan Cup and Arima Kinen, before retiring to stud. He was equally successful there too and was the Champion Japanese stallion for the last seven years and sired over 200 Stakes winners. His presence was also felt recently in Europe; he was the sire of last year’s Qipco 2,000 Guineas winner Saxon Warrior and also the Prix du Jockey Club hero Study Of Man. The Shadai Stallion Station explained in a statement that its star attraction had undergone surgery on his neck on Sunday as part of ongoing treatment. The operation had appeared to have been successful but Deep Impact had struggled to stand up the following day and, following x-ray examination, it was found that he had a fracture of the cervical spine and had to be put down.

SON OF MILAN TOPS DAY 2 OF THE AUGUST NH SALE Day 2 of the Tattersalls Ireland August NH Sale saw demand for choice lots continue, with a healthy clearance rate of 73% (+4% on last year’s Day 2). It was a Milan half-brother to the talented four-time Grade 1 winner and Gold Cup runner-up Might Bite (Lot 513) who topped proceedings when selling for €52,000 to trainer Pat Flynn. “He’s a lovely horse with a very good pedigree,” said Flynn of the Abbeyleix Stud-offered gelding, whose full-brother Beat That is a dual Grade 1-winning novice hurdler. “We’ve had three winners at Cheltenham and we want to get back there again. We’re looking to improve the quality of horse at home and hope we can move forward.” “You can’t beat pedigree and this horse has been bought on spec. We’ll get him home and break him in and see where we are.” The gelding was sold as a foal by The Premier Consignment to Brian Delahunt for €21,000 at the 2016 November NH Sale. At that point Might Bite had won two novice hurdles, one handicap hurdle and had just run once over fences. Another sibling to a Cheltenham Festival winner that caught buyers’ attention, this time a Court Cave full-brother to Willoughby Court (Lot 384), winner of the 2017 Bingham Novices Hurdle. His younger brother, offered by Boardsmill Stud, fetched €45,000 bought by agent Gerry Hogan. “This is a lovely type, with a good pedigree,” said Hogan of the offered gelding. “He has been bought for Barry Connell and he is a big fan of the sire - he has Speaker Connolly by Court Cave who finished third in a good chase at Leopardstown in February.”

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October 2019

BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS “I love buying horses who are out of mares who have produced a good horse,” said agent Matt Coleman after going to €44,000 for the Ask halfbrother to Ministerforsport (Lot 517), the Grade 2 winner of the Easter Handicap Hurdle at Cork. “This is a really athletic, good-walking and goodlooking type,” added Coleman. “He has a good back pedigree that stretches to Mackeson Gold Cup winner Another Coral. He is an old-fashioned type really and will need some time, but he is a fine sort and has been bought to race in England.” The session produced an aggregate of €1,366,600, an average price of €7,427 and a median of €5,350 for 184 horses sold.

CONSISTENT TRADE AT THE TATTERSALLS IRELAND AUGUST NH SALE

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Three days of solid trade at the August NH Sale saw 456 horses sold for an aggregate of €3,777,750 and an average of €8,285. The sale’s median price of €5,500 and the clearance rate of 68 per cent equaled last year’s figures. This year’s Day 3 session produced average and median prices of €5,777 and €4,100, increases of 12 per cent and eight per cent compared with last year. The final day’s top price of €37,000 was given by Ridgewood Bloodstock for a first-crop son of the Cape Cross stallion, Jet Away (Lot 752). The three-year-old gelding was sold by the County Wexford-based Tullycanna Stables, which also sold the second-leading lot of the session, a gelding by Carltomix bought by Bob Woodhouse, on behalf of a new Yorkshire based client, for €32,000 (Lot 623).

The week’s top price of €80,000 was given by Monbeg Stables for a son of Davidoff already named Texxas (Lot 92) and sold by Moanmore Stables. Over the three-day sale, nine horses fetched €40,000 or more. Following the August NH Sale at Tattersalls Ireland, CEO Matt Mitchell commented: “The August NH Sale marks the conclusion of the stores sales for 2019 at Tattersalls Ireland. A total of 939 national hunt stores sold at the May Store Sale, Derby Sale and the August NH Sale for a cumulative total of €23,434,450. The store sales results demonstrate the pivotal role of Tattersalls Ireland in the sector. The open August NH Sale clearly shows Tattersalls Ireland’s commitment to all levels of the store sector. A clearance rate of 68 per cent on par with 2018 with 49 extra lots offered in this year’s edition points to a selective yet realistic market. We would also like to thank the vendors and purchasers for their continued support, and Irish Thoroughbred Marketing for the tremendous work they do year round for all the Tattersalls Ireland sales. We now look forward to the November NH Sale where entries are currently being taken and close on Friday, 20th September.” All lots sold at the May Store Sale, Derby Sale and August NH Sale are eligible for the €100,000 George Mernagh Memorial Sales Bumper 2020.

A COLT BY GALILEO TOPS THE FIRST DAY OF THE ARQANA AUGUST YEARLING SALE The 2019 edition of the August Yearling Sale opened its doors, with the median close to €283,000 recording a 23 per cent rise with the clearance staying solid from 2018. The turnover for the session reached €14,580,000. A son of top sire stallion Galileo was the most expensive during the session, with lot 23 from Haras d’Etreham selling for €800,000 to Phoenix Thoroughbreds. He is the first foal out of dual Group winner STEIP AMACH. The eight top lots during the day were all sold to different purchasers, showing the diversity of

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES buyers. Godolphin led the way, notably signing for the first foal out of Listed placed SIAMSAIOCHT by Siyouni (lot 8) from Ecurie des Monceaux for €450,000. Lot 68 was also knocked down to Stroud from Haras de la Pérelle. He was another son of the indemand Galileo and the second foal out of dual Group 2 and Group 1 Matron Stakes runner-up Cladocera. He was bought for €750,000. Second on the overall buyer’s list, Shawn Dugan had the last word when going to €700,000 for lot 4, from the family of black-type performers PLUMANIA, PLUMATIC and LEFT HAND from Ecurie des Monceaux. Shawn Dugan also bought the half-sister to Fleeting (lot 54) for €400,000 from Haras d’Ombreville.

DUBAWI AND GALIEO HEADLINE SECOND DAY OF ARQANA AUGUST YEARLING SALE The second day of the August Yearling Sale, that closed Part 1 of the catalogue, proved to be an extremely busy session that was echoed by the 86 per cent clearance rate. The average of nearly €300,000 and the median of €215,000 was up 25 per cent in comparison to the same day in 2018. The overall figures from the two days follow in the same theme as Sunday’s excellent results, leading to a 20 per cent increase in the final turnover. A daughter of Dubawi out of PRUDENZIA, the dam of Irish Oaks heroine CHICQUITA, Group winner and dual runner-up at the highestlevel MAGIC WAND, went the way of Anthony Stroud (Godolphin) for €1,625,000 after a fraught battle with Michel Zerolo (Oceanic Bloodstock). She was bred by Ecurie des Monceaux (lot 148). Also consigned by Ecurie des Monceaux (lot 147), this colt by top sire Galileo is the first foal out of a sister to PRUDENZIA. It was the Japanese trainer Mitsu Nakauchida that had the final say at €1,500,000 for the yearling from the family of top calibre performers CHICQUITA and MAGIC WAND. Anthony Stroud leading buyer over the weekend

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Very active over the two days, Anthony Stroud also bought a second lot by Dubawi for €600,000 from Haras de la Perelle (lot 88), as well as a daughter of Dark Angel, the second foal out of Prix Allez France winner MAYHEM for €800,000 from Ballylinch Stud (lot 124).

2019 AUGUST YEARLING SALE CONCLUDES WITH RECORD FIGURES The strong trade for top calibre individuals that was evident over the weekend continued during Part II, the third and final day of the August Yearling Sale, on Monday. With 161 yearlings going through the ring, figures showed a similar clearance rate to last year with 73 per cent sold, up by almost two points. The average price also increased to €87,128, while the overall turnover for the day was up nine per cent at over €10,000,000. A total of 39 lots made €100,000 or more compared to 31 in 2018. Consigned by Ecurie des Monceaux (lot 193), a daughter of Sea The Stars from the family of leading stallion INVINCIBLE SPIRIT made €320,000 to Anthony Stroud, represented by Sally-Ann Grassick. Extremely active during the third day, Nicolas de Watrigant bought six lots, including lot 186, a daughter of Sea The Stars out of German Listed winner SOHO ROSE for €200,000. Mandore International Agency also bought a daughter of Shalaa on behalf of Alain Jathiere out of a daughter of Prix de l’Opéra winner SATWA QUEEN for €260,000. She was consigned by Haras de Montaigu (lot 169). In addition, he also signed for IRISH TRIP (lot 306) from Haras des Capucines for M.V Magnier. A daughter of Teofilo out of Listed winning Dubawi mare QUANZHOU from the family of the Prix du Cadran winner MILLE ET MILLE was bought by Yeguada Centurion for €220,000. She was offered from Haras de la Perelle as lot 325. The 2019 edition of the sale ended with highs in all areas. The overall turnover for the auction reached €43,019,000 (+17 per cent), while the clearance rate also increased (76 per cent) with a slight decrease

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October 2019

BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS in the number of yearlings offered. The average registered a large rise at €187,039 (+17 per cent), the highest figure on record.

KINGMAN COLT TOP DONCASTER YEARLING SALE

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Last year’s Goffs UK Premier Yearling Sale at Doncaster set a new benchmark with the sale breaking the £300,000 mark for the first time in its history and today’s opening session saw that record comprehensively beaten with a colt by Kingman selling for £440,000. Consigned by Charlie and Tracy Vigors’ Hillwood Stud, the colt (Lot 92) out of the Listed winning Exceed And Excel mare Shamandar lit up the Doncaster ring, attracting bids from multiple parties, before being knocked down to Kevin Buckley on behalf of M.V. Magnier. The colt was one of 19 horses who sold for six-figures which drove the sale average up 10% to £49,300 with a superb clearance rate of 91%. A pair of Siyouni yearlings featured late in the evening with Mount Coote Stud’s filly (Lot 222) out of the Galileo mare Anneli selling to Will Douglass of Charlie Gordon-Watson Bloodstock for £250,000 and Longview Stud’s colt (Lot 228) going to Shadwell for £200,000. A total of five yearlings sold for £200,000 or more with Jamie Railton Sales Agency’s Adaay half-brother to Heartache (Lot 15) knocked down to Shadwell Stud for £210,000, one of ten horses purchased by Shadwell today, and Pier House Stud’s Night of Thunder half-brother to Classic Blade (Lot 31) which was purchased by Alex Elliott for £200,000.

ROARING LION LOSES HIS FIGHT AGAINST COLIC On a sad day for racing, Tweenhills Stud has announced that last year’s Champion Three YearOld, Roaring Lion, has been put to sleep in New Zealand. The four year-old had stood for one season at Tweenhills Stud near Gloucester, before travelling to New Zealand where he was set to cover a book of mares at Cambridge Stud. However, within hours of arriving, Roaring Lion was showing symptoms of colic and underwent surgery. A few days later he had to go through a second surgery and reports had suggested that his condition was improving. David Redvers, owner of Tweenhills Stud, wrote on the website “At approximately midday (GMT) / 23.00 NZ today Roaring Lion was observed to be uncomfortable in his stable at Cambridge Stud. On examination by stud vet Rob Hitchcock, Roaring Lion was admitted to Cambridge Equine hospital. “There operating surgeons Dr Alanna Zantingh and Dr Greg Quinn performed ultrasound examination and at 14.45 (GMT) the decision was made on welfare grounds to put Roaring Lion to sleep.” Sheikh Fahad and all the team at Qatar Racing, Tweenhills, Cambridge Stud and Clarehaven Stables have lost a true champion who fought and fought and fought.

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WOOTTON BASSETT COLT TOPS GOFFS UK PREMIER SALES Another superb day’s trade completed an excellent renewal of the Goffs UK Premier Sale at Doncaster which for the second consecutive year celebrated a new record top price and an 89% clearance rate. Yesterday’s opening session produced the recordbreaking top lot of £440,000 (Lot 92) but today’s second and final session certainly enjoyed its share of fireworks which were headed by Coulonces Sales’ Wootton Bassett colt (Lot 438). Anna Sundstrom’s Coulonces Sales have made a big impact on the sale with their first consignment in 2016 selling the sixtime Group 1 winner and Classic filly Laurens and their colt was the subject of great interest in the ring – selling to Goffs UK Agent Richard Ryan on behalf of an undisclosed client for £280,000. Another to feature was Highclere Stud’s Mehmas colt (Lot 319) which enjoyed a significant update leading into the sale with his half-brother Golden Horde winning the Group 2 Qatar Richmond Stakes. He was one of seven yearlings to make £200,000 or more over the two days when selling to Oliver St Lawrence for £260,000.

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Topping today’s Silver Sale was Oaks Farm Stables’ Adaay colt (Lot 540) which, following a timely update courtesy of his two-year-old ownbrother Streamline who won his second race and placed at Listed level, sold to Gaelic Bloodstock for £45,000. Whitsbury Manor Stud, who stand first crop sire Adaay, were responsible for the day’s second top priced lot with a colt (Lot 602) by another of their sires, Due Diligence, selling to Clive Cox for £37,000. Other lots to feature were Parks Farm Stud’s Dutch Art filly (Lot 529) which sold to George Mullins for £27,000 and Trickledown Stud’s Garswood filly (Lot 577) who sold to Federico Barberini, Ontoawinner and Karl Burke for £27,000.

SHEIKH MOHAMMED PURCHASES TAPIT COLT AT KEENELAND SEPTEMBER YEARLING SALES

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ADAAY COLT TOPS GOFFS UK SILVER YEARLING SALE Today’s Goffs UK Silver Yearling Sale completed a successful three days of sales at Doncaster which saw 500 yearlings sold across the Premier and Silver Sales for a clearance rate of 82%.

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Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s Godolphin acquired the two top-priced horses of Monday’s rousing opening session of the Keeneland September Yearling Sale, paying $2.5 million, the highest amount spent on a yearling at public auction in North America this year, for a colt by Tapit who is a half-brother to champion and 2016 Kentucky Derby winner Nyquist, and $2.15 million for a son of Medaglia d’Oro who is the first foal out of Grade One winner Tara’s Tango. Sheikh Mohammed’s nearby Darley stallion operation stands Nyquist and Medaglia d’Oro. The price paid for the $2.5 million colt exceeds last year’s $2.4 million September Sale topper.

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS

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Monday marked the first of three sessions of the premier Book 1 of the September Sale. Day 1 saw competitive bidding for racing prospects among the world’s most prominent Thoroughbred owners, resulting in seven yearlings selling for $1 million or more – including three horses who appeared in the ring in consecutive order – versus five horses sold for seven figures each during the opening session of last year’s sale. For the day, Keeneland sold 107 yearlings for a total of $46,231,000, for an average of $432,065 and a median of $325,000. Eighteen yearlings sold for $700,000 or more today. Hinkle Farms consigned the session-topping colt, who is out of the winning Forestry mare Seeking Gabrielle, and a Curlin colt from the family of 2019 TVG Pacific Classic winner Higher Power who sold to Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum’s Shadwell Estate Company Ltd. for $1.05 million.

At last year’s September Sale, Hinkle Farms sold the Tapit colt’s half-sister by War Front (now named Maria Rosa) to Godolphin for $1.75 million. Nyquist, a September Sale graduate, is represented by his first crop of yearlings at this year’s auction. Godolphin was Monday’s leading buyer with three purchases totalling $5,250,000. Its third acquisition of the day was a $600,000 Medaglia d’Oro colt out of stakes winner Wait Til Dawn from the family of Breeders’ Cup winner Spain. The $2.15 million Medaglia d’Oro colt is out of Tara’s Tango, a daughter of Unbridled’s Song who is a half-sister to Grade One winner Visionaire and Grade 3 winners Scarlet Strike and Madison’s Luna. The colt was consigned by Denali Stud, agent for Stonestreet Bred & Raised. Yuji Hasegawa of Japan acquired a full brother to champion Unique Bella when he paid $1.5 million for a Tapit colt out of Breeders’ Cup Ladies’ Classic winner Unrivaled Belle, consigned by Timber Town, agent. Repole Stables, Vinnie Viola and Coolmore’s M.V. Magnier paid $1.5 million for Golden Whim, a full brother to multiple Grade One winner New Money Honey. Lane’s End, agent, consigned the Medaglia d’Oro colt, whose dam, Weekend Whim, is a full sister to Grade One winner Any Given Saturday. Ben McElroy, agent, paid $1.05 million for the Pioneerof the Nile colt out of stakes winner Uptown Twirl. Consigned by Taylor Made Sales Agency, agent, he is the first foal out of Uptown Twirl, a half-sister to champion Classic Empire and stakes winner Anytime Magic. Pioneerof the Nile also is the sire of a colt out of Irish Group Two stakes winner Up (IRE) sold for $1 million to Magnier and Peter Brant’s White Birch Farm. He was consigned by Lane’s End, agent. Magnier said part of the attraction to the colt was his half-brother, Monarch of Egypt, a $750,000 purchase by Magnier and White Birch Farm at last year’s September Sale. Monarch of Egypt became American Pharoah’s first winner when he won in Ireland in April and has become Group Two-placed. Gainesway was the day’s leading consignor by gross sales, selling 11 horses for $5,425,000.

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CURLIN COLT MAKES $4.1 MILLION AT KEENELAND Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s Godolphin continued its dominance of the Keeneland September Yearling Sale during Tuesday’s second session by purchasing the day’s two highest-priced yearlings, headlined by the $4.1 million Curlin colt out of New Zealand champion sprinter Bounding (AUS), who is the most expensive September Sale yearling since 2010. Godolphin also took home a War Front colt out of Kentucky Oaks winner Believe You Can for $2.9 million. Through the first two sessions of the September Sale, Godolphin has acquired six yearlings for $13,250,000, among them the four highest-priced yearlings so far in the sale. They include Monday’s session-topper, a $2.5 million Tapit colt who is a half-brother to champion and Kentucky Derby winner Nyquist and a Medaglia d’Oro colt out of Grade 1 winner Tara’s Tango for $2.15 million. Bloodstock agent Anthony Stroud, who signed the tickets for Godolphin’s purchases, explained Sheikh Mohammed’s strong participation in the September Sale.

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Godolphin outbid Irish-based Coolmore to acquire the top seller, the most expensive yearling sold at public auction anywhere in the world in 2019. On Tuesday, five yearlings brought $1 million and more to increase the total number of sevenfigure horses sold during the first two sessions to 12. Keeneland sold 109 yearlings for a grand sum of $49,150,000, for an average of $450,917 and a median of $375,000. Through the first two sessions of the auction, a total of 216 horses have sold for $95,381,000, for an average of $441,579 and a median of $350,000. The session-topping $4.1 million Curlin colt is the first foal out of 2014 champion New Zealand sprinter Bounding, by Lonhro (AUS). He is the September Sale’s most expensive horse since Besilu Stables went to $4.2 million to acquire Mr. Besilu in 2010. The colt was consigned by Eaton Sales, agent for Stonestreet Bred & Raised. Stonestreet bought Bounding for more than $1.3 million at the 2016 Magic Millions Gold Coast National Broodmare Sale in Australia. The $2.9 million son of War Front is the third foal out of millionaire Believe You Can, a daughter of Proud Citizen who was bred and raced by former Kentucky Gov. Brereton C. Jones. He consigned the colt, a half-brother to stakes winner Believe in Royalty, in the name of his family’s Airdrie Stud, agent. Bret Jones said today’s sale marked another rewarding day for the Jones family thanks to Believe You Can. Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum’s Shadwell Estate Company Ltd. acquired fillies by Curlin and War Front for $1.05 million and $1 million, respectively. The daughter of Curlin, who is out Grade 1 winner Dreaming of Julia, was consigned by Denali Stud, agent for Stonestreet Bred & Raised. The daughter of War Front is the first foal out of the Grade 3-winning Tapit mare Delightful Joy. She was consigned by Gainesway, agent. Godolphin struck early Tuesday by going to $1 million to purchase a Union Rags filly who was the sixth horse in the ring. She is a half-sister to 2019 Black-Eyed Susan winner and Grade 1 runner-up Point of Honor and to Wicked Whisper, a recent juvenile winner at Saratoga in her career debut.

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS Taylor Made Sales Agency, agent for Siena Farm, consigned the filly, whose dam is the Bernardini mare Zayanna. She also is the dam of stakes winner Velvet Mood. Taylor Made Sales Agency, agent, sold 20 horses for $7,275,000 to be the leading consignor on Tuesday.

AMERICAN PHAROAH FILLY MAKES $8.2 MILLION AT KEENELAND HIP 498 American Pharoah Image A filly by Triple Crown winner American Pharoah who is a half-sister to four-time champion Beholder, Grade 1 winner Mendelssohn and Grade 1 winner and leading sire Into Mischief sold for a record $8.2 million to Mandy Pope’s Whisper Hill Farm to headline Wednesday’s powerhouse day of trade at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale. Eight yearlings brought seven-figure prices today, the final session of the three-day premier Book 1 catalogue, driving gross sales for the session to more than $65 million and average price to more than $524,855. The $8.2 million price set a September Sale record for a filly and equals the fourth-highest price

Image supplied by Keeneland Photo

for a yearling sold at the auction. It is the highest price paid at the September Sale since the $11.7 million given for Meydan City in 2006. The day’s session results reflected robust commerce. Keeneland sold 124 horses for $65,082,000, for an average of $524,855 and a median of $375,000. This year’s Book 1 spanned three days versus a four-day Book 1 in 2018. Cumulatively, 340 horses have grossed $160,463,000, for an average of $471,950 and a median of $355,000. A total of 20 yearlings sold for seven figures in Book 1, including seven that brought final bids of $2 million or more. Clarkland bred the top-selling filly, whose dam is the stakes-winning Tricky Creek mare Leslie’s Lady. “I don’t have any words,” Clarkland’s Fred Mitchell said. “It’s unreal. But in my opinion, this was the best individual the old mare has ever had. Can you believe a 22-year-old mare (in 2018) had something like this? But Leslie’s Lady, she still thinks she’s 12 or 13 years old.” In 2006, Clarkland bought the-then 10-yearold Leslie’s Lady in foal to Orientate for $100,000 at Keeneland’s November Breeding Stock Sale. Clarkland sold Beholder, by Henny Hughes, for $180,000 at the 2011 September Sale and sold Mendelssohn, by Scat Daddy, for the 2016 saletopping price at $3 million. Mitchell said the record-setting daughter of Leslie’s Lady was special from birth. Selling the filly for $8.2 million was “something we never dreamed of in our life,” Mitchell said. “We dream of breeding a nice horse, and this is what it’s all about for the little consignors and the small guys. The farm has been in the family since 1774, and it’ll be there for the children for the rest of their lives. We’re keeping two fillies out of the old mare; this is the last one to sell out of her. The fillies will stay there for the kids and grandkids.” Wednesday’s leading buyer with her lone purchase, Pope said the filly would enter training at Whisper Hill’s training center in Florida. Mike Ryan, agent for e Five Racing Thoroughbreds, paid $2.1 million for a Pioneerof the Nile colt who is a half-brother to two-time 2019 Grade 1 winner Guarana.

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES Ryan said he hoped the colt would be as good as another e Five runner, champion Good Magic. The colt, who is out of the Distorted Humor mare Magical World, was consigned by Taylor Made Sales Agency, agent, which led all consignors on Wednesday with sales of $11,085,000 for 24 horses. Shawn Dugan, agent, paid $2 million for a filly by Empire Maker who is a half-sister to 2018 champion 2-year-old-filly Jaywalk. Consigned by Gainesway, agent, she is out of the Orientate mare Lady Pewitt and is a half-sister to stakes winner Danzatrice. The second horse in the ring on Wednesday was a colt by American Pharoah who sold for $1.3 million to Jamie McCalmont, agent for Coolmore’s M.V. Magnier and Sarah Kelly. Consigned by Hunter Valley Farm, agent, the colt is out of the Smart Strike mare Escampette and is from the family of champion Althea and Grade 1 winners Bayern and Ketoh. Hunter Valley paid $340,000 for the colt at Keeneland’s 2018 November Breeding Stock Sale. He was consigned by Four Star Sales, agent for Dixiana Farms. Two colts sold for $1.2 million each. West Bloodstock, agent for Robert and Lawana Low, paid the amount for a son of Curlin who is a half-brother to Grade 1 winner Mo Town. Consigned by Glennwood Farm, agent, the colt is out of the Bernardini mare Grazie Mille. Ben McElroy, agent, purchased the other $1.2 million colt, a son of Medaglia d’Oro who is the first foal out of the Grade 2-winning Pulpit mare Keen Pauline. The colt was consigned by Gainesway, agent for Stonestreet Bred & Raised. New River Equine paid $1.1 million for a filly by Medaglia d’Oro who is the first foal out of Grade 3 winner Gloryzapper, by Ghostzapper. The filly was consigned by Taylor Made Sales Agency, agent for Aaron and Marie Jones. Repole Stables, St. Elias and Magnier paid $1 million for a son of Curlin who is out of Grade 1 winner Got Lucky, by A.P. Indy, and was consigned by Hill ‘n’ Dale Sales Agency, agent.

UNION RAGS COLT REACHES $1 MILLION AT KEENELAND Keeneland’s September Yearling Sale resumed Friday, the first day of the two-day Book 2 catalogue, with strong trade among a roster of prominent buyers led by the partnership of SF/Starlight/Madaket, whose spending spree included the purchase of four of the day’s six top-priced horses, including a Union Rags colt for $1 million. On Friday, Keeneland sold 221 horses for $54,229,000, for an average of $245,380 and a median of $210,000. Through four sessions, 561 horses have sold for $214,692,000, for an average of $382,695 and a median of $300,000. Book 1 spanned three days this year versus four days in 2018, with Book 2 beginning on Day 4 of the sale. Lane’s End, agent, was the session’s leading consignor, selling 29 horses for $9,450,000. They included four of the day’s top five highest-priced yearlings: the $1 million Union Rags colt, a $975,000 filly by American Pharoah, a $950,000 colt by Quality Road and an $800,000 colt by Curlin.

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS SF/Starlight/Madaket acquired five colts for $3,975,000 to be the session’s leading buyer. Joining the seven-figure colt by Union Rags were sons of Quality Road ($900,000), Curlin ($800,000), Empire Maker ($775,000) and More Than Ready ($500,000). The $1 million colt is from the family of Grade 1 winners Dream Deal, Crème Fraiche, Clear Mandate and Strong Mandate. He is out of the winning Smart Strike mare Miss Squeal. Courtlandt Farm went to $975,000 to obtain a filly by 2015 Triple Crown winner American Pharoah consigned by Lane’s End, agent for Dixiana Farms. She is out of the winning Indian Charlie mare Momentary Magic and from the family of 2018 Triple Crown winner Justify. Retamoza said the filly would enter training at Courtlandt in Ocala, Florida, then be trained by Mark Hennig. Texan Tom Durant paid $950,000 for a son of Quality Road who is from the family of classic winners and sires A.P. Indy and Summer Squall. Consigned by Lane’s End, agent the colt is out of the winning Storm Cat mare Storm Showers. The $900,000 colt by Quality Road purchased by SF/Starlight/Madaket is a half-brother to stakes winner Saratoga Heater. Nursery Place, agent, consigned the colt, whose dam is the winning stakes-placed Salt Lake mare Hot Spell. Nursery purchased Hot Spell in foal to Morning Line for $85,000 at Keeneland’s 2015 January Horses of All Ages Sale. Griffin Mayer, son of Nursery Place owner John Mayer, said the $900,000 colt is the most expensive horse the farm has ever sold. Nursery Place sold all six yearlings it offered Friday for a total of $1.94 million. The $800,000 Curlin colt sold to SF/Starlight/ Madaket is the first foal of the Unbridled’s Song mare Lyrical Moment and from the family of Grade 2 winner Eight Belles. SF/Starlight/Madaket’s paid $775,000 for Classier, a colt by Empire Maker consigned by Lantern Hill Farm, agent. Out of the winning Bernardini mare Class Will Tell, he is from the family of Grade/Group 1 winners Desert Stormer and White Moonstone and French Group 3 winner Homerique.

Solis/Litt acquired a son of Speightstown from the family of 2019 Woodward Presented by NYRA Bets winner Preservationist for $700,000. Gainesway, agent, consigned the colt, whose dam is the Grade 3-placed winner Tokyo Time, by Medaglia d’Oro. She is a half-sister to Grade 2 winner Hungry Island and Grade 3 winner Soaring Empire.

CANDY RIDE COLT FETCHES $1 MILLION AT KEENELAND Robust competition for Thoroughbred racing prospects continued Saturday during the fifth session of the Keeneland September Yearling Sale, which included the sale of a colt by Candy Ride (ARG) for $1 million to Speedway Stable to increase the number of seven-figure horses at the auction to 22 and drive cumulative sales for 785 yearlings to $258,048,000.

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES On Saturday, the second day of the Book 2 session, Keeneland sold 224 yearlings for $43,356,000, for an average of $193,554 and a median of $160,000. Cumulatively, the average is $328,724 and the median is $250,000. Speedway Stable acquired the $1 million colt, whose dam is multiple Grade 2 winner and Grade 1-placed Always a Princess, by Leroidesanimaux (BRZ). The colt, who was consigned by Winter Quarter Farm, agent, was bred by Arnold Zetcher, who raced his dam and her Grade 1-winning half-sister, Gabby’s Golden Gal. Four colts sold for $650,000 apiece. Winter Quarter, agent, consigned a second son of Candy Ride, who was purchased by Sapphire Stable for the amount. He is out of stakes winner and Grade 1-placed Charm the Maker, a daughter of Empire Maker who is a half-sister to Grade 2 winner Liam the Charmer. With two purchases for a total of $1.29 million, Speedway was the session’s leading buyer. Speedway also paid $290,000 for a filly by Air Force Blue who is the first foal of the Malibu Moon mare Secret Agenda and from the family of champions Smuggler and Inside Information. She was consigned by Stone Farm. Mayberry Farm went to $650,000 for a colt by Union Rags out of the Grade 3-winning Sky Mesa mare Sky Girl, a half-sister to champion Abel Tasman. He was consigned by Mt. Brilliant Farm. Mt. Brilliant owner Greg Goodman was pleased with the price. SF/Starlight/Madaket paid $650,000 to acquire a colt by Into Mischief out of the winning Songandaprayer mare Keysong. Consigned by Sequel New York, agent, he is the ninth yearling the partnership has purchased at the September Sale. Juddmonte Farms paid $650,000 for a colt by Uncle Mo from the family of champion Queena, Grade 1 winner Chic Shirine, Grade 2 winner Chief Havoc and Grade 3 winner La Reina. Out of the Empire Maker mare Lost Empire, he was consigned by Paramount Sales, agent. Taylor Made Sales Agency, agent, was the session’s leading consignor with sales of $4,332,000 for 27 horses.

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SOLID GROWTH AT THE TATTERSALLS ASCOT YEARLING SALE The third renewal of the Tattersalls Ascot Yearling Sale concluded with solid growth across the board. The aggregate advanced a significant 24% to £1,356,850, the median jumped 14% to £8,000 and the average made gains of 8% to £10,684. The clearance rate was an improved 79%. Headlining the Sale was Lot 72, a daughter of leading sire Showcasing offered by Whitsbury Manor Stud. The filly is out of the winner Hot Secret and is a half-sister to two winners. Aidan O’Ryan together with Middleham Park Racing and trainer Richard Fahey signed for the colt at £50,000.

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Clonmult Farm’s offering of Lot 148, a filly by Mehmas and a half-sister to Group 3 Acomb Stakes winner TREATY OF PARIS, was the second highest price Lot when selling to trainer Henry Candy for £45,000. Peter and Ross Doyle Bloodstock made their presence felt in signing for the next two highest priced Lots in quick succession. Lot 33, a filly by Starspangledbanner and the first produce of the winning mare Callendula, was sold for £40,000 by Jamie Railton (Agent). Just two lots later, Lot 35 was secured for £37,000. The colt by Footstepsinthesand was consigned by Hegarty Bloodstock and is out of winning dam Challow Hills.

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS

SIX-FIGURE COLT TOPS HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL FIRST ANNUAL YORTON SALE Today’s inaugural Goffs UK Yorton Sale got off to an exciting start with a big crowd of buyers from throughout Europe descending on the beautiful Yorton Farm Stud for the select offering of National Hunt yearlings and two-year-olds. Designed from the onset by Yorton Stud owner, David Futter, as a unique event with a catalogue featuring lots not often found at the more established foal and store sales, it certainly delivered with the sale’s top lot being a 2YO colt. Boasting a pedigree befitting that of a NH stallion, being by No Risk At All out of the Grade 2 winner Princesse Kap (Lot 11), the colt was the subject of strong demand in the ring before selling to Dai Walters for £105,000.

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Demand was strong throughout the sale with 29 of the 32 lots offered selling, producing a superb clearance rate of 91%. Other lots to feature were Lot 20, a 2YO gelding by Fame And Glory, who sold to Dai Walters for £60,000 and Lot 21, a 2YO gelding by Blue Bresil, who sold to Donnchadh Doyle for £40,000.

PEARL SECRET FILLY TOPS GOFFS SEPTEMBER YEARLING SESSION The opening day of the Goffs UK September Sale at Doncaster featured its first yearling session which sold horses to buyers from throughout Europe.

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Moved from its traditional Autumn Sale date in late October, the yearling session offered 92 lots and was topped by Lot 48, a filly by Pearl Secret, who was sold by Salcey Forest Stud to Paul Murphy for £20,000.

NOW LOOK AT ME TOPS BUOYANT GOFFS SEPTEMBER SALE HIT SESSION The two-day Goffs UK September Horses-inTraining & Yearling Sale at Doncaster came to a successful conclusion today with the HIT session attracting a big crowd of buyers which drove the session’s average to a new record. Featuring the annual Gigginstown House Stud dispersal as well as large drafts from Paul & Clare Rooney and Shadwell, the sale enjoyed lively trade throughout today’s final session and it was the Rooney’s draft that provided three of the top four lots, headed by the young and promising hurdler Now Look At Me (Lot 301), who sold to Michael Moore on behalf of trainer Tom George for £75,000. The draft also sold the last start winner Who’s My Jockey (Lot 293) to Hamish Macauley Bloodstock for £54,000 and the four-time hurdle winner I’m A Game Changer (Lot 294) to Aidan O’Ryan and Gordon Elliott for £50,000. The annual Gigginstown House Stud dispersal set the pace earlier in the session with their multiple Graded winner and last start victor A Toi Phil (Lot 179) selling to Richard Ryan for £70,000. Grade 3 winner Mitchouka (Lot 176) was another to feature from the dispersal when selling to J.D. Moore and Chris Jones for £42,000.

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HIGHLIGHTS A LOOK AHEAD

A LOOK AHEAD TO OCTOBER HIGHLIGHTS The quarter kicks off with Group One action to the fore. At Newmarket there is the Group One Kingdom Of Bahrain Sun Chariot Stakes over a mile on Saturday, 5th. That same day sees the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe meeting commence at ParisLongchamp, with the Prix Dollar, Prix Chaudenay and Prix Daniel Wildenstein the precursors to the Group One Prix du Cadran and Prix de Royallieu. Sunday sixth the racing world’s eyes will be fixed on Paris as Enable attempts to become the first horse in history to win the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe three times. The support card is littered with Group One races: the Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp, the Prix Marcel Boussac, the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere, the Prix de l’Opera and the Prix de la Foret.

Friday 11th October, there is further Group One action at Newmarket as the Dubai Future Champions’ Festival gets underway, with the Fillies’ Mile for two year-old fillies the headline and the Group Two Challenge Stakes the key support race.

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A LOOK AHEAD HIGHLIGHTS The following day the Rowley Mile stages one of its most important days of the year, with the Group One Dewhurst Stakes and the Cesarewitch taking centre stage on a high-class card. On Sunday 13th, the Curragh stages the Irish Cesarewitch. Saturday 19th, Leopardstown hosts the Killavullan Stakes. On the Sunday, Aintree hosts one of the big early season jumps races, the Old Roan Chase. The National Season takes a noticeable step up on October 25th and 26th, with Cheltenham staging its first two-day meeting of the season.

There could also be Gold Cup clues at Wetherby, when the Charlie Hall Chase takes centre stage. Meanwhile, Stateside, the Breeders’ Cup gets underway at Santa Anita on Friday 1st, continuing on Saturday 2nd November. On the 5th of November, all eyes turn to Australia for the Lexus Melbourne Cup. Later that afternoon, Exeter stages it big race of the year, the Haldon Gold Cup. Saturday 9th is another busy afternoon, as Doncaster stages the November Handicap and we say goodbye to the turf flat season. Over the jumps, Wincanton’s Badger Ales Trophy takes place, with Present Man bidding for a third triumph. Thursday, November 14th, Clonmel’s big race of the year takes place, the Clonmel Oil Chase. On Friday 15th, Cheltenham’s November Meeting gets underway with stacks of early season clues for the Cheltenham Festival on Countryside Day.

Saturday 26th October sees the final Group One of the year in the UK, with Classic prospects on the line in the Vertem Futurity Stakes at Doncaster, won last year by the subsequent 2,000 Guineas winner Magna Grecia. The same afternoon sees Newbury’s final flat meeting of 2019, with the Horris Hill Stakes and St Simon Stakes the highlights.

NOVEMBER HIGHLIGHTS November starts with a bang as Newmarket stages it final meeting of the year on 1st and 2nd. The same two days see the highlight of the Down Royal season, with the JNWine.com Champion Chase on the Saturday, often attracting Gold Cup contenders.

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

Saturday 16th sees the action ramp up with the BetVictor Gold Cup the feature. The Sunday sees the often significant Shloer Chase and the Greatwood Handicap Hurdle.

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HIGHLIGHTS A LOOK AHEAD Meanwhile at Punchestown, the two-day Winter Festival gets underway on the Saturday, with the feature Grade One Morgiana Hurdle the highlight on the Sunday. Saturday 23rd November sees another exciting afternoon of jumps racing as Ascot stages a high quality card, including the Christy 1965 Chase and a possible clash between superstars Altior and Cyrname.

Two Long Distance Hurdle usually throws up clues for the Stayers’ Hurdle crown, while the novice events are often significant. On Saturday, November 30th the Ladbrokes Trophy, one of the big staying handicap chases of the season, takes place. Meanwhile at Newcastle, Champion Hurdle aspirations will be on the line in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle. The Saturday sees the start of Fairyhouse’s two-Day Winter Festival.

DECEMBER HIGHLIGHTS Sunday 1st December Fairyhouse stages an important afternoon of racing with three Grade One contests: the Royal Bond Novice Hurdle, the Hatton’s Grace Hurdle and the Drinmore Novice Chase. Image supplied by The Jockey Club

The same afternoon will sees a star-studded line-up of Gold Cup hopefuls in the Grade One Betfair Chase at Haydock Park. Bristol De Mai could bid to win the race for the third successive year. On Sunday, 24th, Navan stages one of the great handicap chases of the Irish season, the Troytown. Friday 29th sees the first of two top class days of racing at Newbury with the Ladbrokes Winter Carnival. The Grade

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Image supplied by Newbury Racecourse

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A LOOK AHEAD HIGHLIGHTS Saturday, December 7th, Sandown Park stages one of the key two-mile Grade One chases of the Season, the Tingle Creek Chase, won in 2018 by Altior. Meanwhile, the Grand National fences are in use at Aintree with the Becher Chase and the Grand Sefton Chase. On Sunday December 8th Punchestown stages the Grade One John Durkan Memorial Chase, often a return target for Irish Gold Cup hopefuls. The jumps action returns to Cheltenham on Friday 14th and Saturday 14th, with the December meeting. Highlights include the December Gold Cup and the Bula Hurdle.

Boxing Day sees Kempton Park stage the Grade One King George VI Chase – with the fascinating prospect of Altior taking on last year’s winner Clan Des Obeaux. The card also features the Grade One Christmas Hurdle and the Grade One Kauto Star Novices’ Chase. At Leopardstown, the Christmas Festival gets underway with the Grade One Racing Post Novice Chase. Wetherby stages the Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase and Limerick’s Christmas Festival also gets underway with a Grade One novice chase. On Friday 27th December, Kempton Park has another quality card including the Grade Two Desert Orchid Chase and the Wayward Lad Novices’ Chase. Wetherby’s second day includes the Castleford Chase. At Chepstow, the Coral Welsh Grand National is centre stage on a card also featuring the Grade One Finale Juvenile Hurdle. Day Two of the Leopardstown Christmas Festival includes the fiercely competitive Paddy Power Handicap Chase. On Saturday 28th, there is further Grade One action as Newbury runs the Challow Hurdle, won in 2018 by Champ.

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

On Saturday 21st December, Ascot stages the second of it two-day meeting, with a cracking support card to the final Grade One contest before Christmas, the Long Walk Hurdle, won last year by Paisley Park. The year ends with its usual feast of racing from Boxing Day.

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Image supplied by The Jockey Club

Leopardstown’s Christmas Festival continues with one of the big Gold Cup trials of the winter, the Grade One Savills Chase. In 2018, the progressive Kemboy took the honours. The Dublin course concludes its Christmas bonanza with the Grade One Christmas Hurdle on Sunday 29th December. That same day sees Limerick stage the Grade Two Doran’s Pride Novice Hurdle.

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