Thoroughbred Owner Breeder

£4.95 OCTOBER 2018 ISSUE 170

Home of the brave Sophie Doyle’s leap into the unknown paying off in the USA

PLUS

Yearling buzz

Tatts takes centre stage

Excelling sire

10

Exceed And Excel exceptional

Sea-Bird

Tony Morris recalls Arc hero

Oct_170_CoverV2.indd 1

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21/09/2018 15:58

2018 Leading European Sires (By Earnings in Europe & North America)

Rank Stallion

1 2 3 4

Sire

Galileo Dubawi Mastercraftsman Frankel

Sadler’s Wells Dubai Millennium Danehill Dancer Galileo

G1W’s

Earnings €

5 5 2 3

7,683,649 5,866,392 4,521,666 4,434,344

2018 Leading European Sires of 2YO’s (By Stakes winners in Europe & North America)

Rank

Stallion

Sire

1 2

Zoffany No Nay Never

Dansili Scat Daddy

SW’s

Earnings €

5 4

495,065 796,680

2018 Leading European Sires of 3YO’s (By Earnings in Europe & North America)

Rank Stallion

1 2 3 4 5 6

Galileo Camelot Mastercraftsman Dubawi Frankel New Approach

Sire

SW’s

Earnings €

Sadler’s Wells Montjeu Danehill Dancer Dubai Millennium Galileo Galileo

14 7 6 12 8 3

4,793,906 3,143,173 2,898,520 2,574,466 2,484,469 2,056,423

Source: TheTDN.com, 18/09/18

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19/09/2018 10:06

Enough said!

Contact: Coolmore Stud, Fethard, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, Ireland. Tel: 353-52-6131298. Fax: 353-52-6131382. Christy Grassick, David O’Loughlin, Eddie Fitzpatrick, Tim Corballis, Maurice Moloney, Gerry Aherne, Mathieu Legars, Jason Walsh, Tom Miller or Neil Magee. Tom Gaffney, David Magnier, Joe Hernon, John Kennedy or Cathal Murphy: 353-25-31966/31689. Kevin Buckley (UK Rep.) 44-7827-795156.

E-mail: sales@coolmore.ie Web site: www.coolmore.com All stallions nominated to EBF.

Coolmore OB Oct 2018 dps.indd 3

19/09/2018 10:06

CANNOCK CHASE Lemon Drop Kid (USA) / Lynnwood Chase hase e (USA) (USA)

• Winner of the Pattison Canadian International Stakes (Gr. 1) • Tercentenary Stakes, Royal Ascot (Gr. 3) • Huxley Stakes (for the Tradesman’s Cup) (Gr. 3) "He’s a very progressive horse that we have always liked... he’s got a turn of foot and a bit of class."

• Won over 10-12f Sir Michael Stoute, Racing Post

PEACE ENVOY Power (GB) ex Hoh My Darling (GB)

“He was a very smart juvenile.”

“He reminds me very much of Rock of Gibraltar.”

Ryan Moore

Aidan O’Brien

DYLAN MOUTH

• Winner of Jebel Ali Racecourse & Stables Anglesey Stakes (Gr.3) • Winner of Coolmore War Command Rochestown (C & G) Stakes (LR) • Placed 3rd in the Darley Prix Morny (Gr.1) (2yo Colts & Fillies) (Turf) to Lady Aurelia • 2nd in the GAIN Railway Stakes (Gr.2)

New for 2019

Dylan Thomas (IRE) / Cottonmouth (IRE)

• Winner of Premio Roma GBI Racing (Gr. 1) • Gran Premio Del Jockey Club (Gr. 1) • Gran Premio di Milano (Gr. 2) • Premio Federico Tesio (Gr. 2) • John Smith’s Silver Cup Stakes (Gr. 3) • Won over 1m1/4f - 1m6f “Dylan Mouth has proved to be very tough horse throughout his career, he has always been sound and has had a great temperament throughout. He is versatile, handles any ground and has been an extremely professional horse to deal with.” Marco Botti

WORSALL GRANGE FARM

Low Worsall, North Yorkshire, England, United Kingdom Tel: 01642 789800 www.worsallgrange.com NOMINATIONS LUCY HORNER Email: Lucy@worsallgrange.com

Worsall Grange OB Oct 2018 f-p.indd 1 Grange|2018|Roster_X3_|OB|A4|210mm(w) x 297mm.indd 2

17/09/2018 09:15 13:39 14/09/2018

Welcome

Home bird flying to go from zero to heroine

Editor: Edward Rosenthal Bloodstock Editor: Emma Berry Luxury Editor: Sarah Rodrigues Fashion Editor: Christopher Modoo Design/production: Thoroughbred Group Editorial: First Floor, 75 High Holborn, London WC1V 6LS Tel: 020 7152 0209 Fax: 020 7152 0213 editor@ownerbreeder.co.uk www.ownerbreeder.co.uk Twitter: @OwnerBreeder Equine Advertising: Giles Anderson/ Oscar Yeadon UK: 01380 816777 IRE: 041 971 2000 USA: 1 888 218 4430 advertise@anderson-co.com Luxury/Fashion Advertising: Nick Edgley Tel: 07774703491 nedgley@nemediaworld.com

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Subscriptions: Keely Brewer Tel: 020 7152 0212 Fax: 020 7152 0213 subscriptions@ownerbreeder.co.uk Thoroughbred Owner & Breeder incorporating Pacemaker can be purchased by non-members at the following rates:

1 Year 2 Year UK £55 £90 Europe £75 £120 RoW £99 £154 Thoroughbred Owner Breeder incorporating Pacemaker is published by a Mutual Trading Company owned jointly by the Racehorse Owners Association and Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association The Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association is a registered charity No. 1134293 Editorial views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the ROA or TBA Our monthly average readership is 20,000 Racehorse Owners Association Ltd First Floor, 75 High Holborn, London WC1V 6LS Tel: 020 7152 0200 • Fax: 020 7152 0213 info@roa.co.uk • www.roa.co.uk Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association Stanstead House, The Avenue, Newmarket CB8 9AA Tel: 01638 661 321 • Fax: 01638 665621 info@thetba.co.uk • www.thetba.co.uk

£4.95 OCTOBER 2018 ISSUE 170

Home of the brave Sophie Doyle’s leap into the unknown paying off in the USA

PLUS

Yearling buzz

Tatts takes centre stage

Excelling sire

10

Exceed And Excel exceptional

Sea-Bird

Tony Morris recalls Arc hero

9 771745 435006

www.ownerbreeder.co.uk

Oct_170_CoverV2.indd 1

Cover: Sophie Doyle in relaxed mood at Arlington Park in September, having secured a top three finish in the jockeys’ standings Photo: Jamie Newell

Oct_170_Editors.indd 3

Edward Rosenthal Editor

21/09/2018 15:58

o wins from 85 rides – not a statistic that would have given Sophie Doyle much pleasure back in 2012, when the then British-based jockey would reflect on her most disappointing spell in the saddle. Her best year had been 2010, with 28 victories from 249 rides for earnings of £129,000.

At a time when her brother James’s profile was on the up – a Group 1 win on Cityscape in March 2012 would help propel him on to retainers with Khalid Abdullah and then Godolphin – Sophie took the decision to relocate to America in a bid to resuscitate her career. For someone who describes herself as a “home bird” it was a brave call – yet, as results suggest, undoubtedly the right one.

Up to September 20, Doyle’s US career showed 2,167 rides for 217 winners and earnings of $5.2 million, including a Grade 2 triumph on Fioretti in the Thoroughbred Club of America Stakes.

This year is certain to be her most successful yet Stateside, with 69 winners so far, the majority of those coming at Arlington Park – at the time of writing and with two days of the season left, Doyle was third in the standings at the Chicago track, having passed the 50-winner mark with a fabulous four-timer on September 20.

Doyle is not the first jockey to find that the USA really is a land of opportunity – in April we spoke to Adam Beschizza, who had a terrific season at Fair Grounds in New Orleans – but one suspects that being an outsider and female would make things that bit harder, as the jockey herself suggests.

“You have to work twice as hard to be a professional female jockey, in England, America or anywhere in the world,” Dolye tells Tim Richards (Talking To, pages 48-52).

“Persevere, believe in yourself and at some point it will pay off. There is a very good saying, ‘Hard work can overcome talent.’ Female jockeys have realised they have to work just as hard and be just as fit as the next one, male or female. “[Initially] it was very tough making contacts – I didn’t have anyone to help me. I was at Santa Anita and Hollywood Park in California and got in touch with trainers and told them I wanted to continue my career as a jockey. I wanted to work for as

many trainers as possible and would walk through the barns talking to trainers and their staff, trying to establish relationships.

“When I was growing up I was very shy and mum used to say to me if you’re not going to talk to people, you can go and sit in the corner. I now realise how much her encouragement helped me.

And, as a result, I have been able to come out of my skin.”

Doyle is now a rider in demand, which is an achievement in itself, big-race winners aside.

How many female jockeys in Europe would take seven or eight rides on a single card? The racing programme may be different in the States, with jockeys basing themselves at one track for a number of months, yet Britain, it seems,

“Doyle is not the first jockey to find the USA is a land of opportunity” is still behind the curve when it comes to equal opportunities in the jockey ranks.

Interestingly, when Doyle endured her toughest season in the UK, three of the top 50 jockeys were women. Fast forward six years and, perhaps surprisingly given the number of young women coming through, the situation is identical. Let’s hope in another six years the scene has moved forward.

This month sees Britain’s richest day of racing at Ascot on Champions Day, which has given the Flat season a wonderful finale. James Oldring, who has been involved since British Champions Series was launched eight years ago, explains how successful the event has been from a commercial and promotional perspective (24 Hours With, page 120) and why if he’s losing sleep ahead of this year’s spectacular on October 20, it won’t be because of the racing.

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21/09/2018 16:46

Contents

October 2018

32

35

24

News & Views

International Scene

ROA Leader

View From Ireland

Ownership strategy a chance to be heard

7

Continental Tales

TBA Leader The head-spinning yearling sales circuit

9

News Stewarding revamp

10

Changes News in a nutshell

12 26

Howard Wright Towcester intrigue

28

Owners Pete and Kosta Hronis

The Big Picture From The Archives John Reid recalls Tony Bin’s Arc

Talking To...

Stateside success story Sophie Doyle

October Preview 38

30 32 35

Features

Aintree event proves popular

Autumn activities

4

Around The Globe

Retraining of Racehorses

Racing Life Water, wares and what to wear

An Irishman abroad

From Leopardstown and Doncaster

Tony Morris Sea-Bird sensational in 1965

Coolglen Syndicate’s success

Look ahead to the big Tattersalls sale

16 24 48 54 60

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Oct_170_Contents.indd 4

21/09/2018 17:51

18

68

48

Features Breeders’ Digest Variety the spice of life for British breeders

Sales Circuit Yearling sales here, there and everywhere

Caulfield Files Exceed And Excel excelling

Dr Statz Mastercraftsman making merry

24 Hours With...

James Oldring of British Champions Series

Forum 67 68

Careers Course a vital step up

European Pattern Winners and analysis

88 90

Oct_170_Contents.indd 5

100

108

114

Stallion Statistics Kodiac tops two-year-old table

TBA Forum BHA Graduate on her time at the TBA

Hong Kong and its stringent processes

112 120

106

Vet Forum

Data Book

ROA Forum Owners’ Experience finalists announced

Cheveley Park Stud

85

Forum The Thoroughbred Club

Breeder of the Month

119

Did you know?

Our monthly average readership is

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21/09/2018 17:51

You can tell a

book by its cover Dual Group 1 Winner

Ulysses A Legend in the Making FIRST EDITION With acknowledgement

s to:

H.H. The Aga Khan Studs Hascombe & Valiant Studs Juddmonte Farms Lanwades Stud Meon Valley Stud Moyglare Stud Farm Newsells Park Stud Qatar Bloodstock Owenstown Stud

His first book of mares in 2018 included:

8 Group 1 winners 6 dams of Group 1 winners 18 full or half-sisters to Group 1 winners

First foals in 2019 Bound to be Best Sellers

Cheveley Park Stud Tel: +44 (0)1638 730316 www.cheveleypark.co.uk L@CPStudOfficial

Ulysses OwnerBreeder_Oct18BookV3.indd 1

21/09/2018 12:44

ROA Leader

Nicholas Cooper President

Ownership strategy so important to whole sport T

he value of owners and ownership is becoming increasingly appreciated by the wider world of horseracing. Since virtually everything about racing is quite clearly influenced by the number of owners and the extent of their involvement, it is reassuring that the importance of ownership has now become firmly established in racing’s front-line thinking.

Certainly, the industry needs sufficient owners to sustain the right number and quality of horses for a fixture list that fuels the £12 billion that is bet annually on British horseracing, to say nothing of the importance of the horse population in ensuring racecourses remain in business and trainers, jockeys and racing staff can continue to ply their trade.

The fact that the ROA has recently secured funding from the Levy Board to develop an ownership strategy sends a clear message that the whole of racing finally acknowledges this position. It is one thing that the soon-to-be-dismantled Levy Board has made this money available but another that it shows, for the first time, racing’s leaders are placing this all-important project into the hands of the organisation where it rightly belongs – the ROA. The need for such a strategy is self-evident. We can, for instance, take little comfort from the fact that lapsed ownership, currently at 11% annually, is running higher than new intakes at 9%; that there are now more owners aged over 80 than under 40; and that only 21% of active owners are female. On the other hand, that there are nearly 2,500 registered owners without a horse in training might be seen as more of an opportunity than a dilemma, especially as the average field size needs to be increased in line with new media rights payments and an everexpanding fixture list.

The strategy that has been adopted, and ratified by all of racing’s stakeholders, is one that achieves the twin objectives of retention of existing owners and recruitment of new ones. Not every owner can expect to have a good horse or even a winning one, but every owner, whatever the level of their involvement, should be made to feel special and appreciated.

It is true that the ROA’s Gold Standard initiative has been increasingly successful in encouraging racecourses to give owners with a runner a good day out, however their horse performs on the track. Also, we have seen great improvement in the way trainers now communicate with their owners and how the administration attached to being an owner is becoming much less complicated, while syndicate managers continue to become more professional in their approach.

There is, however, much more to be done and the ROA, armed with a Levy Board budget, has grasped the challenge

Oct_170_ROALeader.indd 7

with both hands and is working closely with racing’s stakeholders to continue to enhance the ownership experience.

It is through owners themselves that the most positive way of conveying the attraction of racehorse ownership can be achieved, and this was confirmed in the results of the Owners’ Survey undertaken in 2016.

To this end, we will continue to work closely with owners to understand what they want, need and value from their involvement in racing, and to ensure that the approach that we

“Every owner, whatever their level of involvement, should be made to feel special and appreciated” take satisfies those requirements. The future strategy will be shaped by owners’ voices and over the coming months we will be ensuring that as many voices as possible are heard up and down the country.

As existing owners, the more we think about our own experiences, the more it becomes evident that there is an appealing simplicity in keeping the owner’s voice at the heart of our developing strategy as it is applied across all levels of ownership and over all geographical areas.

If racing wants to increase the number of horses in training, then the retention of owners, and the enhancement of the ownership experience, is critical to achieving that goal.

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21/09/2018 16:21

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21/09/2018 08:30

TBA Leader

Julian Richmond-Watson Chairman

Theatre of dreams but money is no guarantee T

he yearling sales merry-go-round is in full swing, and virtually every day for the next couple of months buyers and sellers will make momentous decisions in the theatre of the auction ring. Those decisions will be based on many theories and views, and not a few prejudices. In this world of untried horses, no-one knows which will outrun another.

Comments from Mark Johnston and others on how they assess and value horses they intend to purchase have made fascinating reading. Thank goodness for differences of opinion and the fact that, as yet, no-one has managed to find an infallible test that defines ability and temperament in untried yearlings. It means that sale price is no guarantee of success, and both the most expensive or the cheapest racehorses can reap rewards.

Not surprisingly, agents look closely at conformation. Mark Johnston rightly pointed out in his Racing Post comments: “Bloodstock agents have to buy horses to fit the lowest level of knowledge, so the thing that’s almost concerning them most is: does it toe in or out, or are its knees offset?”

This inevitably means that, in the majority, such purchases reflect the fact that agents have to pass on the horse to a client and ultimately his or her trainer. They will always face greater difficulties if they have to tell the client: “I have bought this ‘incorrect horse’ but believe it can be trained and raced through the fault and be a successful racehorse.”

As Sir Mark Prescott said in last month’s Thoroughbred Owner Breeder, when discussing what to look for in buying a yearling: “Trainers can always be a little more forgiving than the agent...”

Taking another example, who I am sure will not mind me saying he is from the old school, David Elsworth has bought yearlings for many years and been very successful with them, from such as his dual Goodwood Cup winner Persian Punch, who cost 14,000gns, through the Hardwicke Stakes winner Indian Creek (46,000gns) to his latest stable star Sir Dancealot (€30,000).

There are not many trainers like David, Sir Mark and Mark Johnston who can take that calculated risk, and whereas in times past owners and trainers were the prevalent buyers at the sales, nowadays trainers are mostly too busy and owners less knowledgeable about conformation or not at the sales, so they have become more reliant on agents to do the donkey work for them.

This inevitably leads to those horses that pass the ‘agent test’ being more sought-after than others, while the converse tends to leave vendors frustrated when a good-looking yearling is passed over by agents who will not buy a horse with a particular issue, even though there have been many successful racehorses who

Oct_170_TBA_Leader.indd 9

have raced with a similar problem.

Every time the subject of conformation – or lack of correctness – comes up, it is worth remembering, as Mark Johnston pointed out in the Racing Post article, the example of Attraction. She never came on the market, but despite having crooked legs she still managed to go through her first seven races unbeaten and was retired to a hugely successful stud career with ten wins from 15 starts, including five Group 1s.

Pedigree and less precocious types are another issue, so the TBA’s initiative on stayers - and the publicity surrounding it – and industry support for races that reward later-maturing horses ought to mean that yearlings bred not just for instant speed should find ready buyers. Shades of Persian Punch again, for although he won three times as a three-year-old in his first term, he had his best season as a ten-year-old.

“Let’s hope those that have had the faith to breed middle-distance horses are rewarded” By now agents, owners and trainers should be well aware of the boost in prize-money and greater opportunities for middledistance horses. Let’s hope that those that have had the faith to breed them are rewarded for that faith. Following fashion is expensive and so buying the less fashionable stayer may just be the way to find a good horse who has not caught everyone’s eye.

I wish all vendors and buyers the best of luck at the sales and on the racecourse in the future.

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21/09/2018 15:44

News

BHA’s new stewarding system will ‘raise the bar on integrity’

A different approach to scrutinising races will be employed under the revamped stewarding model, which comes into force on January 1

T

he British Horseracing Authority has revealed a significant change to the stewarding structure at British racecourses as it looks to combat corruption and protect the sport’s integrity.

From January 2019, the ‘one team’ model will see a Chief Steward with responsibility for overseeing raceday stewarding working alongside a BHA steward and one volunteer, the Panel Chairman. At present, the stewarding panel consists of two voluntary roles and one BHA-appointed Stipendiary Steward.

The changes were announced following a lengthy project to review stewarding in Britain, which included consultation with stakeholders. It was thought the BHA could move to an allprofessional model or even centralised stewarding, however the BHA board favoured “evolution, not a radical overhaul” according to Brant Dunshea, the BHA’s Chief Regulatory Officer.

Dunshea explained: “The framework of raceday regulation currently in place in Britain has served us well. However, to ensure that racing is best positioned to mitigate and manage the risks posed by contemporary integrity threats to

10

so many sports, it’s essential that we continue to evolve and improve our regulatory systems.

“We believe that the new officiating model retains the best elements of the current model, while raising the bar on integrity, welfare and the management of risk and major incidents. We expect this to bring together all our raceday teams, including our volunteer and professional stewards and other officials, into a more coherent, supportive, consistent, flexible and effective operation.”

Under the new system, the stewarding team will adopt a different approach when scrutinising races, with a particular focus on horses being campaigned with a handicap career in mind, although Dunshea does not believe that will necessarily result in an increase in the number of penalties being handed out by the BHA. He continued: “I can’t say we will see more bans [being imposed]. You simply don’t know what the impact of increasing the level of scrutiny will be, which is a deterrent in its own right.

“Rather than say there will be specific races that we will focus on, there will be

specific risks that we will clearly focus on.

We want the stewards to have a broader understanding of form going into a meeting.

“We are bringing the work done by the handicappers, the work that happens off course and the work that happens at the coalface on course more closely together, so that it is a combined team effort.

“You will also see an increase in our analysts being on course with the stewarding team. It’s important to have exposure on track, because there are things that you pick up on track that are vital to the intelligence function.”

Dunshea added that the BHA is improving the system by which runners are scanned on course, to try and avoid incidents of the wrong horse running, and that installing infield cameras at every track would reduce the chances of the wrong winner being called.

The bill for implementing the new stewarding system comes out at £330,000 (with £300,000 included in the 2018 BHA budget), which covers the cost of recruiting and retaining new roles plus training costs for new and existing staff and voluntary stewards.

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21/09/2018 16:56

Stories from the racing world

Tributes to Mick O’Toole

Jessica McLernon was named Employee of the Year in 2018

Godolphin Stud & Stable Staff Awards Nominations have opened for the Godolphin Stud & Stable Staff Awards 2019, which offer £120,000 in prize-money across seven categories.

Now in their 15th year, the awards, run in conjunction with the Racing Post, honour the hard work of the industry’s often unsung heroes.

Owners, trainers, breeders, colleagues, yard and stud managers are welcome to nominate staff or colleagues for the awards.

Hugh Anderson, Managing Director of Godolphin, said: “Godolphin is again delighted to sponsor these prestigious awards in 2019.

“It is so important to reward those devoted, dedicated people who do so much for our industry and on behalf of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, I wish all those nominated the best of luck.”

To complete a nomination form, visit studandstablestaffawards.co.uk.

The nomination period is active until November 20.

Cheltenham Gold Cup and Classicwinning trainer Mick O’Toole died in August aged 86.

O’Toole was a legendary and highly popular figure in Irish racing for more than 50 years, enjoying numerous bigrace successes over jumps and on the Flat.

Davy Lad, in 1977, was his Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, and he was one of eight Festival successes for O’Toole.

His best performer on the Flat was Dickens Hill, who won the Irish 2,000 Guineas and the Eclipse in 1979 and finished runner-up in the Derby and Irish Derby.

O’Toole was also on target at Royal Ascot, winning the 1972 Ascot Stakes with Balios and 1975 Norfolk with Faliraki.

His big-race successes over jumps in Ireland included the Irish Sweeps Hurdle with Chinrullah (1978) and Carrig Willy (1980), and the 1975 Galway Plate with Our Albert.

O’Toole was initially based at Phoenix Park before moving to the Curragh in 1968. He was also a successful trainer of greyhounds and captured the Greyhound Oaks with Marjone at Harringay in 1965.

Tributes flooded in for O’Toole, with Willie Mullins saying: “Micko was in every sense of the word a legend. Whenever you left his company you always had a smile on your face. He was a great trainer and a great character.”

Aidan O’Brien said: “I was very sad to hear of his passing. He was a very successful trainer and a very wise man who knew so much about the game.”

Ted Walsh, who rode many winners for O’Toole, also quoted by the Racing Post, said: “Mick was a one-off and I can say only good things about him. He was

Mick O’Toole: successful under both codes

part of my youth and of my early days in racing.

“I rode a lot of winners for him. It never mattered whether things went well or badly, whether horses won or lost or whether he had a good day or a bad day punting, and he always loved a bet, he never changed.

“If he thought you gave one a bad ride he’d give you a bollocking, but it would be forgotten about almost immediately. He was a friend and was always great company, a true legend of the game.”

He is survived by his wife Una, daughter Margaret, a well-known bloodstock agent, and son Ciaran, one of Ireland’s leading jockeys’ agents.

Clarehaven staff receive share of Weatherbys Hamilton bonus Staff at John Gosden’s Clarehaven Stables in Newmarket have received their share of the prize-money following Stradivarius’ feat of winning the Weatherbys Hamilton Stayers’ Million, having captured the Yorkshire Cup, Gold Cup, Goodwood Cup and Lonsdale Cup this year. Bjorn Nielsen, Stradivarius’ owner-breeder, boosted the winnings by an additional £25,000, which meant the staff received a cheque for £100,000.

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Staff with their cheque and star stayer Stradivarius, winner of the £1 million bonus

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21/09/2018 16:57

Changes

Racing’s news in a nutshell

People and business

Freddie Mitchell

Rode as a conditional jockey for Nicky Henderson but has decided to rejoin the amateur ranks.

Atholl Duncan

BHA board member is to become the organisation’s interim Chairman when Steve Harman departs next month.

Limerick

Track will stage its first Grade 1 this season after the Greenmount Park Novice Chase, at its Christmas festival meeting, was upgraded.

Musselburgh

The Racing Centre

New facility opens at the Newmarket headquarters of the National Association of Racing Staff that will offer courses in mentoring, leadership and team skills.

16-year-old son of former jockey and trainer Charlie rides first winner under rules at Worcester, Stacey Sue, trained by his grandfather Timmy Hyde.

Winx

Australia’s darling is honoured by a beer being brewed called Winx, with blue cans to reflect her silks; it will be available at Moonee Valley and elsewhere.

Huntingdon

Fire destroys four hospitality boxes at the Cambridgeshire track.

PJ McDonald

George Baker

William Hill

Becomes the latest British bookmaker to strike a major deal in the US after agreeing a 25-year partnership with casino group Eldorado Resorts.

Dave Crosse

Jump jockey to miss the whole season after multiple breaks to his humerus sustained in a fall while schooling.

Harry Swan

Former rider will take over from the retiring Michael Haggas as jockeys’ agent to William Buick and James Doyle.

Racecourse is granted a further extension of its licence until the end of the year as the local council continues search to appoint a third party to run the track.

Marwan Koukash

Owner enjoys 500th winner in Britain with nine-year-old Gabrial in a conditions race at Epsom on August 27.

Rider who has enjoyed tremendous success with the Karl Burke-trained Laurens fractures left ankle and right heel in paddock accident at Newcastle.

Jason Fildes

Appointed syndicate representative for Highclere Thoroughbred Racing’s northern-based division, having been general manager at Haydock Park.

Irish fixture list

Published by Horse Racing Ireland, with one key feature being that the number of racing-free Sundays in 2019 has been increased to five from three.

Ivan Furtado

Trainer agrees a lease to move into owner John Fretwell’s Aversham Park Stables in Newark; he has spent three and a half years in Doncaster.

Vertem Futurity Trophy

John Dance’s organisation steps in to sponsor Doncaster’s Group 1 two-yearold contest, known as the Racing Post Trophy for 30 years.

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Future Champions Festival

Emergency service, NHS and armed forces staff given free entry (booked in advance) to two days of racing at Newmarket on October 12-13.

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21/09/2018 17:02

TWEENHILLS TIMES AN EYE FOR SUCCESS

OCTOBER 2018

HAVANA SIRES GR. 1 WINNER Tweenhills resident Havana Gold sired his first Gr. 1 winner when Havana Grey won the Flying Five Stakes at the Curragh on September 16.

Already a 4-time Stakes winner before the race, Havana Grey confirmed himself one of the best sprinters of his generation in the Flying Five.

Winning trainer Karl Burke enthused: “It’s what dreams are made of and this horse really deserved this. He’s been so consistent and yet he’s still only a baby.”

Tweenhills Stud manager David Redvers described the victory as “incredibly important” for Havana Gold, adding: “It’s particularly good news for his breeder Richard Kent (of Mickley Stud, who bred the colt with Lady Lonsdale) and his support of the stallions - I’m thrilled for him.”

Havana Grey – a Gr. 1 winner by Havana Gold

Lion Roars to third GR. 1 WIN

FIRST GROUP WIN FOR CHARM Spirit There was also a first for another Tweenhills stallion as Charm Spirit sired his first Stakes winner when Yourtimeisnow won the Gr. 3 Dick Poole Fillies’ Stakes at Salisbury.

Winning jockey Andrea Atzeni said: “She has got so much natural speed.

Mentally and physically she’s getting better and could be anything.”

Yourtimeisnow was bred by Boyce Bloodstock and Mrs C. E. Percival, out of Gone West mare Maid For Winning whose other progeny include Stroll Patrol, a Gr. 3-placed 2-year-old for Qatar Racing.

Roaring Lion surges past Saxon Warrior

Qatar Racing’s Roaring Lion cemented his status as one of the world’s best racehorses with Gr. 1 win number 3 in the QIPCO Irish Champion Stakes on September 15.

A tactical race saw his old foe Saxon Warrior get first run, but Roaring Lion showed his trademark turn of foot and an unbelievable will to win, scoring by a neck.

“His courage and turn of foot to go and get Saxon Warrior was quite breathtaking to watch,” said Sheikh Fahad, while David Redvers added: “It was the best thing I’ve ever seen on a racecourse!”

Yourtimeisnow – a Gr. 3 winner by Charm Spirit

JUDGE COLT MAKES €1.4m The first foal out of Qatar Racing’s dual Gr. 1 winner Just The Judge sold for €1.4m at the Arqana August Yearling Sale.

Just The Judge’s yearling colt

Days after our September issue was submitted, the strapping son of Dubawi became the only lot at the sale to break the €1m mark when bought by Ballylinch Stud’s John O’Connor.

A SPECIAL BOND Finally, and very sadly, we report the passing of Audrey Hill who was a big supporter of Tweenhills for many years.

Here she is with her mare Honesty Pays and her colt foal by colt by Havana Gold.

Winning rider Oisin Murphy said: “It was more tactical than anybody could have expected, but he’s a machine.” Future plans for Roaring Lion – a $160,000 yearling buy at Keeneland – have yet to be finalised.

SPEAR TO TWEENHILLS

The stunning colt was born and raised at Tweenhills, and consigned by La Motteraye, for whom he was a first sales-topper at the sale. We wish his new owners the best of luck.

Plans for Qatar Racing’s other Gr. 1 winner this year, Lightning Spear, have been made and he will join the stallion roster at Tweenhills in 2019.

Please contact us for further information.

Tweenhills, Hartpury, Gloucestershire, GL19 3BG W: www.tweenhills.com T: + 44 (0) 1452 700177 M: + 44 (0) 7767 436373 E: davidredvers@tweenhills.com

Changes

Racehorse and stallion

Movements and retirements Massaat

Son of Teofilo, winner of the Group 2 Hungerford Stakes and runner-up in the 2016 2,000 Guineas, will stand at Mickley Stud for the 2019 breeding season.

Justify

Order Of St George Outstanding stayer, winner of the 2016 Gold Cup and dual Irish St Leger hero, is retired aged six; in all he won 13 races and just shy of £2 million.

Megalala

John Bridger’s veteran is retired aged 17 after a career that yielded 20 wins from 148 runs. He last ran as a 16-yearold and won aged 15 in 2016.

Saxon Warrior

This year’s Triple Crown hero arrives at Ashford Stud and will be prepared for his first season as a Coolmore stallion.

Mustajeeb

Jersey Stakes winner is on the move to join his fellow former Shadwell colourbearer Naaqoos at Haras de Fleury in north-east France.

McCracken

Multiple Graded stakes-winning son of Ghostzapper has been retired from racing and will stand at Airdrie Stud in Kentucky in 2019.

Rumble Inthejungle

Racing Post Trophy and 2,000 Guineas winner injures a tendon in a thrilling Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown and is retired.

Molecomb winner is bought by Cheveley Park Stud, to remain with trainer Richard Spencer, but on first subsequent start finishes last in the Flying Childers at Doncaster.

Poet’s Word

Musis Amica

King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes winner is ruled out for the remainder of the season after suffering an injury.

Prix de Diane runner-up, owned by Godolphin and trained by Andre Fabre, ruled out for remainder of the year with ongoing injury problems.

People obituaries Mick O’Toole 86

Trained Davy Lad to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 1977 and Dickens Hill to capture the Irish 2,000 Guineas and Eclipse in 1979.

Bill McLuskey 74

Father of jockey Mark Rimmer and a former member of Newmarket trainer John Berry’s staff.

Miler who took Ruth Carr’s stable to a new level when arriving from David Nicholls is retired aged nine. He won 15 races, including a Group 2, and £800,000.

Urban Aspect

Three-year-old is sold out of the Andrew Balding yard to join Tony Cruz in Hong Kong after an “impossible to refuse” offer was made.

Alpha Centauri

Arguably this year’s stand-out performer on the Flat is retired after chipping a joint in her fetlock in the Matron Stakes at Leopardstown.

Horse obituaries Commanding Officer 2

Promising juvenile owned by Steve Parkin and trained by Karl Burke suffers a fatal injury in the stalls at Doncaster.

Elegant Lord 30

Won 13 hunter chases including the Foxhunter at Cheltenham in 1996 and the Fox Hunters’ at Aintree on his final start in 1999.

Time For A Run 31

Achieved Cheltenham Festival success in 1994 when Charlie Swan produced him late to win the Coral Cup, one of his 11 victories.

Miss Encore 12

Dam of this year’s Japanese Derby winner Wagnerian suffers a fatal fracture to her hind leg during an earthquake on Hokkaido.

Jack Banks 84

Owned Lincoln winner Ocean Tempest and Group 2 Superlative Stakes victor Silver Grecian, both trained by John Ryan.

Former Newmarket trainer, who was also an assistant to Geoff Huffer, whose good horses included Wokingham runner-up Prince Babar and Hot Tin Roof.

Lady Vivienne Lillingston 77

Neville O’Byrne 73

Became immersed in Irish racing and equestrian life after marrying Alan Lillingston of Mount Coote Stud, County Limerick.

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Cliff Rimmer 85

Sovereign Debt

Served as Senior Steward of the Turf Club for two years from December 2013, having become a member of the organisation in 2007.

Medicean 21

Prolific stallion at Cheveley Park Stud, siring Group 1 winners Dutch Art, Nannina, Al Shemali, Capponi, Mr Medici and Bayrir.

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21/09/2018 17:01

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The Big Picture

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Irish Champion Stakes

Lion roars loudest in Leopardstown thriller The Irish Champion Stakes, which has seen so many memorable tussles over the years, produced another sensational finish between star three-year-olds Roaring Lion and Saxon Warrior, meeting for the fifth time in 2018. Victory went to Roaring Lion, owned by Qatar Racing and trained by John Gosden, the son of Kitten’s Joy quickening up in brilliant fashion under Oisin Murphy to reel in Saxon Warrior and Ryan Moore close to the line, gaining the verdict by a neck.

Photo Bill Selwyn

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The Big Picture

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St Leger meeting

Right on Kew The St Leger is the ultimate staying test for the Classic generation and the Aidan O’Brien-trained Kew Gardens proved his class and stamina with a decisive success under Ryan Moore. Favourite Lah Ti Dar (pink silks) battled on well but she was kept at bay by two and a quarter lengths.

Kew Gardens, owned by John Magnier, Michael Tabor and Derrick Smith (pictured with son Paul, left), could take his chance in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at ParisLongchamp on October 7.

Photos George Selwyn

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The Big Picture

Stars out at Doncaster The St Leger meeting provided a blend of promising and established performers, both two-legged and four. Sangarius, above with groom Kashif Hussain, showed huge potential in winning the Flying Scotsman, while God Given (right, beating Horseplay in the Park Hill Stakes) provided Luca Cumani with a welcome Group 2 winner, as he relayed to daughter Francesca on ITV. Rich Ricci’s duo Thomas Hobson (pink cap) and Max Dynamite fought out the finish of the Doncaster Cup, while the winner of the Legends race, Ted Durcan, is pictured below with Sir AP McCoy, Jack Berry and Lester Piggott.

Photos George Selwyn

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St Leger meeting

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The Big Picture

St Leger meeting

Too Darn good The Group 2 Champagne Stakes at Doncaster can often throw up an extremely promising two-year-old and most definitely falling into that category is this year’s victor, Too Darn Hot. The Dubawi colt, owned by the Lloyd-Webbers (pictured right), ran out a convincing winner under Frankie Dettori to maintain his 100% record after three runs.

Photos George Selwyn

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21/09/2018 14:33

The TBA, with you for the journey Your support means that we can continue our work to build a stronger industry underpinned by a more resilient and diverse breed.

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From The Archives

Tony Bin and John Reid clean up in Arc As spare rides go, Tony Bin in the Arc wasn’t a bad one. John Reid was riding for Vincent O’Brien at the time but having been in the saddle for Tony Bin’s prep-race victory at San Siro – which left him “buzzing” and believing the horse could win the Arc – his Italian connections reached out to Reid again. The rider had to page his boss, who was at the sales, there being no mobile phones of course in those days, but he received permission to get off Dark Lomond, and O’Brien was the first to congratulate him on the day. Reid recalled: “They went very fast and I was further back than I wanted to be. You need to wait until the second straight, rather than the first [false] straight, to go and we didn’t have as rough a journey as Mtoto. When I let him go, he kept going and Mtoto couldn’t catch us. He was tough. It was an amazing day and winning the Arc ranks very high in my affections. I am looking at the trophy as we speak, it has pride of place on the mantelpiece.” Tony Bin held Mtoto by a neck, with the likes of Unfuwain, Kahyasi, Diminuendo and Triptych in behind.

Photos George Selwyn

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Tony Bin on October 2, 1988

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Tony Morris

Sea-Bird’s Arc still tops the vintage stakes W

– without the extra expense of a sleeping car ticket. I would just hope to grab some shut-eye as best I could.

But I got to Paris pretty much unscathed, then foolishly let myself be persuaded to venture up the Eiffel Tower, an experience which gave me a life-long fear of heights.

Later in the day I needed height to obtain an advantageous position to watch the race, but that merely entailed a climb towards the top of the old stand, where I could perch on a wall, somewhat precariously. It wasn’t very comfortable, but it did afford me a marvellous view as the 20 runners paraded.

The best representatives of France, England, Ireland and Italy were joined by the top American three-year-old Tom Rolfe, and Anilin, the greatest horse ever bred in Russia. There was never such an array of talent in any Arc, and there would be no field to compare with it until Dancing Brave’s year, 1986. I’m still inclined to rank the 1965 group as the top vintage.

Despite the obvious embarras de richesses, everyone seemed to think that the race would be all about the clash of the French three-year-old titans, and that indeed proved to be the case. Both lay handy throughout, allowing the belief that a mighty struggle between them would ensue in the closing stages.

But that was not what we got. Early in the straight Sea-Bird pounced on the leaders and swiftly drew clear. Reliance chased nobly and soon left the rest behind, but even as he extended his advantage over them, Sea-Bird was widening the gap up front.

Inside the last furlong he drifted left, but at the finish he was adjudged six lengths clear of Reliance, who had five lengths to spare over Diatome.

You had to see it to believe it, and it was no wonder that the media exhausted all the superlatives in describing it. The best piece I saw in the following day’s papers was by Quintin Gilbey in the Sporting Chronicle. For him it was the greatest single performance of his lifetime – and he had been watching the best horses since before World War One. If anybody still doubted the value of the form, there came emphatic evidence of its worth from some of the beaten throng.

Diatome and eighth-placed Carvin finished first and second in the Washington DC International. Fifth-placed Anilin won the Preis

APRH

hat’s the first thing that comes into your mind at the mention of October? For more than 30 years of my life it was the punishing grind of the bloodstock sales circuit, when I hardly ever seemed to be at home. Looking back now I readily recognise that watching people do their shopping and writing about it as a form of madness, and I find it hard to believe that I actually enjoyed it.

Once freed from that burden I could revert to my original notion of what that month was all about. October meant the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, a race that had captivated me since 1958, when Ballymoss, an early hero of mine, confirmed his status as champion of Europe.

Seven years later I experienced the best October of my young life, as I was actually present at Longchamp to witness a momentous Arc performance which I firmly believe has never been surpassed.

I had been at Epsom to see Sea-Bird win the Derby, but I was too naïve to recognise the worth of his victory. Yes, he had won impressively, virtually in a canter, but I couldn’t decide whether that made him exceptional or established that his victims were a sorry lot. His runner-up, Meadow Court, had previously been rated as just the third- or fourth-best colt in Paddy Prendergast’s string.

But Meadow Court promptly won the Irish Derby, then the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes. Those victories paid handsome tribute to Sea-Bird, who meanwhile had followed up his Epsom triumph with an easy victory over older horses in the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud.

And it appeared that Sea-Bird was not the only star performer on the French turf that year. Reliance, three-parts brother to 1963 Derby hero Relko, could boast an unbeaten record, and by September he had notched five times, his successes including the Prix du JockeyClub, the Grand Prix de Paris and the Prix Royal-Oak. Those exciting developments hinted at an epic contest in the Arc, and I secured the crucial weekend off, so that I could be on hand to witness it.

Having led a very sheltered life up to that point, I had never been out of England, so I had to obtain a passport to accomplish my adventure, and as I was unable to drive and had insufficient funds to contemplate a flight. That meant overnight rail journeys

Sea-Bird crosses the line in the 1965 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe an incredible six lengths clear of Reliance, who in turn was clear of Diatome

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The man you can’t ignore von Europa by four lengths. Seventh-placed Demi Deuil trotted up in the Premio Roma. Sixth-placed Tom Rolfe went home to be decorated as America’s champion three-year-old.

My first adventure outside England had been an outstanding success. I had bought myself an ‘I was there’ experience whose memory would never fade.

But the travel arrangements had not been great, and I came home knackered after very little sleep. I didn’t want a repeat of that, so I told all and sundry that I wouldn’t go for another Arc until I could expect to see something better. I’ve maintained that resolve and never have been back. What chance a second trip in the future? Remote in the extreme.

Still, I continue to relish the Arc from afar, expecting it to bring the best that October can offer, and it usually delivers. I even backed and tipped the winner once, having secured some tasty odds about Three Troikas (1979) before her victory in the Vermeille and made her my confident selection in my Arc preview for Paris Turf. Strange to relate, they fired me the following week.

I tipped Ivanjica (1976) too, and was minded to back Star Appeal (1975) when I noticed that he was at insulting odds for a winner of that year’s Eclipse. Sadly, it was then too late to get my money on.

Another longshot winner, but one I could never have backed, was Topyo (1967). I cursed him for beating Salvo on the day, but now I have one of his shoes on my desk as a paperweight, I’m inclined to think better of him.

Unsurprisingly, I suppose, I resented Sassafras (1970) for ending Nijinsky’s unbeaten record, but I revelled in Alleged’s double (1977, 1978), especially the second of those triumphs, at the end of a season when he had seen little action.

“I continue to relish the Arc from afar, expecting it to bring the best that October can offer” My reason for remembering Urban Sea (1993) was to debit her as the poorest of Arc winners, but who was then to know that she would produce two exceptional sons in Galileo and Sea The Stars (2009), the latter himself an Arc hero?

It was good to see the likes of Vaguely Noble (1968), Mill Reef (1971) and Peintre Celebre (1997) confirm their status as champion three-year-old at Longchamp. Likewise, Dancing Brave (1986), given precisely the same ride by Pat Eddery as Greville Starkey had in the Derby, but with a happier outcome. I suspect that Arc gets as many views on YouTube as all other Arcs put together.

Epsom never had more convincing winners of its three great races than in 1963, when Relko won the Derby, Noblesse the Oaks and Exbury the Coronation Cup. I loved little Exbury and welcomed his Arc success that year.

One Arc winner whose merits are often overlooked was Rheingold (1973). I remember him fondly, not least because I was pals with his owner, Henry Zeisel, at whose nightclub I had some rare old times. But I also can’t forget that Lester Piggott once told me that ‘on the day he won the Arc, Rheingold was as good a horse as I ever rode.’ There’s food for thought.

As I write this, the 2018 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is a keenly anticipated event on the horizon. By the time you read this, it may well be history.

Chances are it will be history worth remembering.

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The Howard Wright Column

Documents reinforce Towcester mysteries W

hen the world fell in on Towcester racecourse on August 21 and KPMG were appointed administrators, the loud noises of sorrow and sympathy came from professionals and public alike. How could this happen to such a well-loved site?

Always capable of a maverick twist under the driving force of its Chairman Lord Hesketh, new stands and stabling were built to exquisite specifications; free admission at most horserace meetings was advanced as a template for others; jumps enthusiasts praised its going and testing nature; and the greyhound world revelled in a fresh track that quickly took on the Derby when others dithered.

What could possibly have gone so badly wrong that closure was immediate and re-opening unimaginably indeterminate?

The true story will begin to emerge only when the administrators set out their proposals for the outcome, which they have said will come by October 15. In the meantime, elements of an intriguing back story exist in publicly available documents, notably those lodged with Companies House and the Land Registry since the beginning of February this year.

On February 2 there was a major restructuring of Towcester Racecourse Company’s shareholding, in which nearly £15 million of debt was converted into shares held by Hesketh, his family and Hesketh family trusts. In addition, Peter Sparkes, whose country of residence was named as China and occupation as Finance Director, was appointed to the board, and the company’s articles of association were revised.

The new articles of association referred to the ‘investor shareholder’, specifically naming ‘Mr Anthony Woods and Ms Victoria Woods (together)’, who was entitled to appoint an ‘investor director’.

The Woods connection, which seems to have been revealed for the first time in relation to Towcester, is interesting. Further Racing at Towcester has come to a halt

investigation suggests that Anthony and Vicky Woods are the children of the late Alan Woods, an Australian who gained a reputation as a fearsome gambler in Hong Kong, where his turnover in the 2006-07 horseracing season was reputed to be US$64 billion, all bet on mathematical probabilities and through computer systems.

Alan Woods died in 2008, since when his children have run the family gambling syndicate, betting into many markets including Hong Kong and the UK. Its Finance Director is understood to be Peter Sparkes, while its Operations Director is Simon Nicholls, who was afforded this job title when appointed a director of Towcester Racecourse Company in 2015. Nicholls’ name will ring bells in the UK, and around Towcester, for he was an early recruit to GG Media, the breakaway media rights company set up by Hesketh in 2001, which was dissolved ten years later.

“Simon Nicholls’ name will ring bells in the UK, for he was an early recruit to GG Media, the breakaway media rights company” Less familiar in the tangled saga is the name of Table Systems Ltd, which in June this year loaned £600,000 to Towcester Racecourse Company, according to Companies House records.

The same source reveals that Table Systems is a UK shell company registered in Brunei, from where it is just slightly harder to garner financial information than from a BHA board meeting. However, Nicholls and Sparkes will be fully aware of Table Systems through their roles as Towcester directors.

Whether Anthony Woods has more than a passing knowledge of its affairs has not been established.

Table Systems is also one of five officers – the others being Hesketh family members and one longstanding friend – in Pomfret Partners, an LLP set up in January this year and named after a venerable Hesketh connection. Intriguingly, Table Systems and Pomfret Partners figure in documents lodged recently with the Land Registry, concerning new trusts that were created in February this year and involve the freehold titles to the centre of the racecourse and the racing track, stands and stables.

The backdrop to all this activity is Towcester’s annual accounts, which it has been notoriously slow to lodge over recent years. In 2015 it made a pre-tax loss of £1.9m; a year later the equivalent figure was £2.4m. Results for 2017, due last month, will figure in the administrators’ report. They will hardly refute the fact that Towcester has been living beyond its means for years.

Whether the picture on the jigsaw of background responsibilities assembled since the beginning of February ever becomes equally clear remains to be seen.

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View Fr m Ireland

No run-of-the-mill Quest wins in eight runs, never finishing worse than fourth.

The mare’s hurdle handicap rating increased 30lb to 126, and her chase mark went upwards for the first time, growing 14lb to 119. In effect,

by September Mill Quest was more than 3st the horse she had been on June 1, and while owners the Coolglen Syndicate could not have predicted that improvement, they did know this would be her year.

Mill Quest has improved in leaps and bounds for the Coolglen Syndicate

Declan Kenneally, one of seven siblings in the syndicate led by his 85-year-old mother Catherine, has seen it all before. He said: “We bred the dam Solar Quest, from grand-dam Solar Jet. It’s a line we’ve had a bit of luck with and she is just the latest to come out.”

Glenquest stars among Solar Quest’s offspring, a rare male to run for the Coolglen Syndicate, with the policy generally to sell colts and race mares to breed from.

CAROLINE NORRIS

A

utumn disappears into winter and jumping moves up a notch this month, but there remains time during transition to reflect on perhaps the most improved jumps horse of the summer, the Coolglen Syndicate’s Mill Quest.

Mill Quest began the summer rated 96 over hurdles and 105 over fences, having won two handicap hurdles. By the Listowel festival last month, the same eight-year-old had racked up four

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By Jessica Lamb Handled by their local trainer Terence O’Brien, he finished second and third in the Troytown Handicap Chase, and fourth in the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown’s Christmas festival.

With Stuart Crawford, he went on to be third in the Welsh National and fifth in Newcastle’s Eider Chase, before retiring to the point-to-point field aged 13.

“Another mare Cool Quest was going the right way until she got injured,” added Kenneally. “It’s just a good, genuine line, but they take a little while to develop. At seven or eight they come into themselves.

“Mill Quest wasn’t showing a whole pile up until last year, when she won twice, and this year she seems to have come good altogether. We were hoping to get one or two wins out of her this season – but she’s really surprised us, to be honest.”

The Milan mare’s first change was to move from O’Brien’s yard in County

“It’s a line we’ve had a bit of luck with and she is just the latest” Cork to that of Gordon Elliott in Meath. She made the journey in June, Kenneally and his family believing it could help the mare.

He explained: “She probably improved a little bit for switching to Gordon. Even though we were happy enough with what Terence was doing, she wasn’t just showing enough, so we said we’d give it one try and he seems to be doing the business.

“Saying that, she was on different ground all last year. We’ve had a bit of luck with the good summer we got. We always used to think that line wanted cut in the ground, but she seems to be different ­– the better the ground, the better she seems to travel.”

At eight years old, Mill Quest is only likely to race for one further year, but the line the Kenneallys have produced will continue through the now six-time winner.

“She’s a lovely scopey mare, she’s an ideal broodmare to be honest,” said Kenneally. “If you were thinking of going breeding, maybe another year

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of racing? It’s down to Gordon Elliott, though. We’ll go with his advice but I think only one more year.”

He added: “The handicapper is getting a good hold of her, so she’ll slow down now. She’ll have to go up in the grades and I don’t know how much of her ground she’ll get this year.”

O’Brien has a four-year-old halfsister by Kalanisi due to be named and started on the point-to-point circuit this winter. She will be the next horse to run in the Coolglen Syndicate colours, but Turtle Island half-sister Cool Quest also has a filly by Presenting to come, and Westerner half-sister Realta Mo Croi has a filly by Leading Light.

“We generally have only one racing at most, just trying to keep the line alive,” Kenneally said. “Breeding is what we do. My brother Cian is at the home farm in Araglen looking after it all. She was reared and bred there, like all of them.”

Mother Catherine is the head of the family – and the syndicate – having reared her own brood of five boys and two girls mostly alone following the early death of their father. Horses have brought them together since that tragedy, and the successes spread far beyond even their extended family.

Keneally said: “Even though it’s only a small syndicate and a small community here in Araglen, we have an extended family and an extended following. We’re on the border of Cork, Tipperary and Waterford, most of the children all staying around home and one brother, Billy, over in London.

There’s a great buzz about the place whenever the horses are running.”

He added: “Our dad got killed when we were young. Our mother had to get out of horses and try to run the farm and things like that, but she always loved the horses. To be able to come back to it now gives her great satisfaction. It’s great for us all to see everyone enjoying it so much.”

Solar Jet, Mill Quest’s grand-dam, was their first purchase and what she has bred has built the ‘Quest’ line.

The family isn’t out to make profits from their breeding or racing, but the consistency of the line means colt foals tend to make five figures at the sales – cash that can go back into their successful hobby.

“You don’t get rich fast from any of it,” Kenneally mused. “The profits are in the breeding, and we haven’t gotten exceptional money or anything – but the books balance themselves out with the colts we sell.”

In brief Allegio motors on

Another notable improver this summer was the Denis Hogan-trained Allegio. The five-year-old began the season on one win from eight runs and with a Flat handicap mark of 78.

He quickly won his first two races, both Cork handicaps, stepped up to tackle a premier handicap, then finish second in two Listed races. Raymond Treacy’s son of Galileo moved up 26lb on official ratings.

“He was a steal at €5,000,” Hogan said. “Colm Sharkey bought him for us at the Doncaster Horses-InTraining Sales unraced, saying he thought with a winter to strengthen he could win a bumper.

“He’d too much speed for a bumper from the first day we galloped him, but he took a long time to come to hand. He won at Killarney last year, but he was still on the weak side even then. He turned inside out over the winter, and that showed straight away.”

Munster’s first Grade 1

Limerick’s Christmas festival will have a new Grade 1 following the upgrade of the Greenmount Novice Chase on December 26.

The extended 2m3f contest has been won by the likes of Sir Des Champs, Gilgamboa and Bellshill in recent runnings and will now be televised live on RTE, with an increased prize fund of €90,000.

Limerick also becomes the first of Munster’s eight racecourses to host a Grade 1 race. The likes of the Clonmel Oil Chase and Hilly Way Chase, both Grade 2 contests, previously held top rank in the province, Thurles’ Kinloch Brae Chase was also previously elevated to Grade 2 status.

The upgrade of the Greenmount Novice Chase does, however, look odd when considering Leopardstown runs a 2m1f Grade 1 novice chase on the same afternoon.

Shane Doyle, Horse Racing Ireland’s race-planning manager, said: “The National Hunt Pattern Committee felt that the time was right to have a Grade 1 opportunity for the intermediate-distance horses to augment the races over the twomiles-one-furlong and three-mile distances at Leopardstown.”

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Continental Tales

Minch helps small stud’s big splash GERMANY

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WWW.GALOPPFOTO.DE/FRANK SORGE

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he recent sale to trainer John Best of the three-year-old colt Salve Del Rio, a son of Rio De La Plata who has not finished out of the first four in German Pattern races in his last five starts, including when fourth in the Deutsches Derby, helped focus the spotlight upon Gestüt Höny-Hof, a small breeding and racing operation which punches well above its weight.

Established in 1985, Höny-Hof is owned

by Manfred Hellwig, a tax lawyer, and his wife, Edith, and is so named because Höny was the first word spoken by their daughter, Annette.

It began on a dairy farm that Hellwig owned in Moormerland, close to the North Sea coast near the Dutch border, and it was from there that the Hellwigs enjoyed their first homebred successes with the dual Listed race winner Bollo in 1992 and 1993.

But they were living almost 300 miles away at Bad Homburg, near Frankfurt, so in 2000 they purchased a new farm just an hour from home at Oberaula and construction of a purpose-built stud began.

As the new site became operational, so Höny-Hof was upgrading its bloodstock and purchased the Monsun filly set to become the stud’s foundation mare, Salve Regina. Bought as a yearling for £86,000, she was already a full-sister to one German Derby winner, Samum, and became sister to another when Schiaparelli landed the Hamburg showpiece in 2006.

Salve Regina was not too far behind her brothers on the track, finding just Next Desert too strong in the 2002 version of the Classic having won the German Oaks.

The final piece of the jigsaw came in 2005 when the Irishman Simon Minch, who had already been in Germany for a dozen years working for various breeding and racing organisations, was employed as Höny-Hof’s stud and racing manager.

Minch, from Fermoy, County Cork, where his father, Garret, had a small stud and owned the 1963 Troytown Chase winner Knockaphrumpa, takes up the story.

“I learned from some of the best people in Ireland, such as Joe Hernon, Frank Dunne and Timmy Hyde, and I also spent time with Arthur Moore and Jonjo O’Neill,” he said.

“I sat on a horse before I could walk, was quite successful at the Dublin Horse Show as a kid and then wanted to become a jump jockey. But my mother insisted that I finish school and after my first bad fall I realised that it was not for me.

“Initially I came over only to break in

Simon Minch with Salve Regina, whose legacy is assured through her daughters at stud

some yearlings and without a word of German. I began picking it up as assistant to trainer Peter Rau, where I started translating for all his non German-speaking lads, and then I met a nice German girl called Caroline and we now have two children, Zoe, who is seven, and Stella, who is four.

“I was lucky to get the job here through Rudiger Alles and it has been a challenge as we are a long way from other breeders in a very rural location. It’s old forestry land, very unforgiving clay soil, and we’ve had to work very hard to try to lighten it up.

“We’ve got only eight mares here at the moment, but they all have black type near the top of their pages. We still buy a

few yearlings. I picked out Donnerschlag in Newmarket for 30,000 guineas as a birthday present for Mrs Hellwig with the intention of winning the Goldene Peitsche and in 2016 he managed to win precisely that race – at the third attempt!”

Salve Regina is gone now, the tendon injury that put paid to her racing career eventually getting the better of her, but she has left behind four of her daughters.

The great Höny-Hof homebred success story of the last few years has been Palace Prince, winner of four Group races, while their current team of 15 horses in training, includes the Listed-placed pair of Westfalica and All For Arthur.

Recorder reeling them in FRANCE It often seems that foreigners have a great deal of love and respect for our royal family and this phenomenon may help to explain why the Queen’s young stallion, Recorder, has proved so popular with French breeders during his first season at stud in Normandy.

A son of Galileo and the 2010 Albany and Cherry Hinton Stakes winner Memory, injury meant that Recorder’s racing career was restricted to just three juvenile starts, culminating in victory in the Group 3 Acomb Stakes at York’s Ebor meeting.

Memory’s first foal, his pedigree looks better now than it did when he

was in training with William Haggas, as her subsequent progeny have included Call To Mind, placed in this year’s Yorkshire Cup and winner of the Grade 2 Belmont Gold Cup in America, and the Listed-placed Learn By Heart.

In a move suggested by bloodstock agent Richard Venn to the Queen’s racing manager, John Warren, Recorder has been leased to join fellow stallions Le Havre and Rajsaman at the Haras de Montfort and Preaux near Lisieux.

Recorder’s initial covering fee was set at €6,000 and French broodmares, along with a number from Her Majesty’s own band, have been making a beeline to his stable door. So much so that his initial book of mares has numbered no less than 152.

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By James Crispe, IRB

Las Vegas is just fabulous

PA

POLAND

The grey Taupin Rochelais en route to another remarkable success at Waregem

Taupin triumphs for fourth time French trainer Patrice Quinton took Belgium’s biggest race (under either code), the Grote Steeple Chase van Vlaanderen, for the eighth consecutive year at Waregem on August 28.

This 2m7f chase, run over cross country-style obstacles, is always likely to fall into French hands as it offers a €100,000 prize pot and Waregem racecourse is just 20 miles from the French border.

But the real hero of its 171st renewal, held in front of the usual throbbing 37,000-strong holiday crowd, was Taupin Rochelais. This striking grey had to pull out all the stops at the venerable age of 11 to

Recorder (right) is proving a hit with breeders in France

register a three-quarters of a length victory over the useful Defit d’Estruval, trained by Guillaume Macaire and less than half the old boy’s age.

The Al Namix gelding was winning it for the fourth straight year and was having just his eighth start since his first success in 2015. More remarkably still, the Grote Steeple Chase is a handicap so, having initially carried just 10st 1lb to victory, Taupin Rochelais has gone up in the weights with each successive triumph and this time around was forced to carry the mighty impost of 12st 1lb.

The plan is to go for the five-timer in 2019, but next year jockey Thomas Beaurain may need to bring fresh supplies of lead with him to ensure he satisfies the Clerk of the Scales!

GEORGE SELWYN

BELGIUM

Triple Crown winners don’t come along very often in most countries – Britain is in the middle of a near 50-year drought while the US had to endure a 37-year wait before American Pharaoh came along.

In Eastern Europe they are not so rare and in particular in Poland, where there have been no fewer than 12 Triple Crown heroes since Nijinsky strutted his stuff on Town Moor way back in 1970.

The lastest in that long line (and the third in the last four years) was the French-bred son of Air Chief Marshal, Fabulous Las Vegas, who experienced his coronation at Sluzewiec racecourse in Warsaw on August 26.

A €7,500 Arqana Yearling Sale purchase, Fabulous Las Vegas won the Derby by only a short head but he was much more convincing in the St Leger, needing to be only hand ridden by jockey Szczepan Mazur to beat the British-bred six-year-old Youmzain mare Height Of Beauty by two lengths.

However, Fabulous Las Vegas may not be the best horse in Poland as another of Mazur’s regular rides, the locally-bred four-year-old colt Magnetic, had also shown his superiority over Height Of Beauty on the Derby day undercard, back in July, and completed a four-timer on September 2 when touching off the German raider Gepard in the Freundschaftspreis, a mile and a quarter event worth 10% more than the St Leger.

The performance of Gepard, who was subsequently relegated to third thanks to a disgraceful hometown decision by the Warsaw stewards, does suggest that Polish form would not hold up very well on the international stage.

Trained in Berlin by Christian Zschache, Gepard finished tenth in last year’s German Derby but has not managed a single win in eight handicap starts since then, including when runner-up at Baden-Baden just a week before the Freundschaftpreis.

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10/09/2018 14:13

Around The Globe

The Worldwide Racing Scene

The two Hronis enjoying life NORTH AMERICA

By Steve Andersen

BENOIT PHOTO

I

n the spring of 2010, two brothers from central California arranged to meet southern California trainer John Sadler during an afternoon of racing at Santa Anita.

For decades, the brothers had followed the sport, going to the races with their grandparents as children, and later keeping watch as adults while their farming business thrived.

Pete and Kosta Hronis were lifelong racing fans and wanted to do more. They wanted to launch a stable. Sadler, well established on the circuit, would be their guide.

“We thought, we can get started and we’ll try it out,” Kosta Hronis said in August.

More than eight years later, Hronis Racing is among the leading stables in California and in the midst of a stellar season. At the seven-week Del Mar summer season alone, Hronis Racing, guided by Sadler, won four graded stakes.

Hronis Racing won the richest race of the season, the $1 million Pacific Classic with Accelerate, rated among the leading older males on dirt in the United States.

Accelerate is a candidate for the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Churchill Downs on November 3, the same day that Hronis Racing and Sadler hope to start Catalina Cruiser in the Dirt Mile. The mare Shenandoah Queen, filly Yuvetsi and two-year-old Sigalert could also start in Breeders’ Cup races.

While the Hronis brothers started with a claimer, it was not long before they enhanced their investment and began buying yearlings and horses of racing age in the United States and Europe. Their first major winner was Lady Of Shamrock, who was bought privately after her third start and later won the Del Mar Oaks and American Oaks, both Grade 1 races. She was sold at the end of her career for $2 million to Alain and Gerard Wertheimer.

“We made a private purchase,” Kosta Hronis recalled in August. “That gave us the fever.”

In the following years, Hronis Racing and Sadler ran such notable horses as Iotapa, who won the Grade 1 Vanity Stakes at Santa Anita and Grade 1 Clement Hirsch Stakes at Del Mar in 2014; Stellar Wind, the champion three-year-old filly of 2015;

Kosta (left) and Pete Hronis have enjoyed plenty of success in a relatively short period

and Hard Aces, who won the Grade 1 Gold Cup at Santa Anita in 2015.

Stellar Wind was purchased for $6m by MV Magnier at Keeneland last November.

Hronis Racing is on pace for a record season and very much in the discussion for the Eclipse Award as the nation’s outstanding owners. Up to September

“We listen to John [Sadler].

We’re kind of in the back seat of the car” 5, Hronis Racing had 35 wins from 205 starters and had recorded stable earnings of $3,387,153, with nearly four months of the year remaining.

The stable emphasises quality, but still claims horses on occasion, spending $40,000 to $62,500 on maidens, for example. Sadler, 62, has won more than 2,400 races since his career began in 1978.

“He’s more of a trainer,” Kosta Hronis said. “We thought we knew about racing.

He’s trained for us since 2010.”

The Hronis brothers are the third generation to operate a farm in and around Delano, California, that specialises in table grapes, and also grows nectarines.

The farm employs 1,500 people and sells its produce in leading grocery stores in California. Delano is about 150 miles from Santa Anita, a pesky drive through Los Angeles traffic but a flight of less than an hour to a small airport near Santa Anita. Kosta Hronis, 59, attends the races more frequently than his 54-year-old brother, but both were often at Del Mar in the summer.

While Accelerate is rated as the stable’s leading performer, Catalina Cruiser may be the future star. He was unbeaten in his first four starts, including the Grade 2 San Diego Handicap, which he won by almost seven lengths on July 21, and the Grade 2 Pat O’Brien Stakes – won by even further on August 25. A four-year-old bought for $370,000 as a yearling, Catalina Cruiser has yet to be fully tested.

This summer, Sadler made the decision to point Accelerate for the Breeders’ Cup Classic and Catalina Cruiser to the Dirt Mile, a way to keep the two apart.

“John makes all the decisions on what races we’ll be in,” Kosta Hronis said. “We listen to him. We’re kind of in the back seat of the car.”

This year, they have a brilliant view.

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Around The Globe

The Autumn Sun sets Winx poser AUSTRALIA

By Danny Power

A

s Winx continues on her merry way towards an historic fourth Group 1 Cox Plate in late October, the horse that could stop her amazing winning sequence is quite possibly staring at her on a daily basis.

I have an increasing belief that trainer Chris Waller, quite possibly, has Winx’s nemesis in his own stable – the exciting colt The Autumn Sun. If all goes to plan and Winx wins the Group 1 Turnbull Stakes at Flemington – as she did last year on her way to a third Cox Plate at Moonee Valley – on October 6, the great mare will line up in the $4 million Cox Plate at the Valley on October 27 with a sequence of 28 wins.

Most of the media attention about a possible rival to Winx on Cox Plate day has centered around the Godolphin’s Benbatl, who has targeted at the race.

Benbatl, trained by Saeed bin Suroor, arrives following Group 1 wins in the Dubai Turf at Meydan in March and the Grosser Dallmayr Preis at Munich on July 29.

His one run since then was a battling fifth behind Roaring Lion in the Group 1 Juddmonte International at York on August 22. That performance, to be beaten just under six lengths, is probably where Benbatl sits in the pantheon of middle-distance horses in Europe. For him to come to Australia and knock off Winx on her home turf in the cauldron that is Moonee Valley on Cox Plate day would be a severe dent to her reputation.

Which makes me think that The Autumn Sun, a beautifully conformed son of champion sire Redoute’s Choice, who has had only four starts to the middle of September, just might be the rising star with the raw talent and the light weight to cause an upset.

Of course, Waller and the colt’s owners have yet to commit to a Cox Plate start, and probably won’t entertain the prospect until after The Autumn Sun competes in the Group 1 $2 million Caulfield Guineas on October 13.

History shows that the best colts from the Caulfield Guineas invariably run well in the Cox Plate two weeks later. Even a maiden, Shamus Award, finished third in the 2013 Guineas and backed up to win the Cox Plate.

The Autumn Sun reminds me a lot of

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So You Think. He’s a similarly handsome specimen with maturing talent. So You Think couldn’t win the 2009 Caulfield Guineas but trounced his older rivals with an all-the-way win with Glen Boss in the saddle in the Cox Plate; his first of ten Group 1 wins. The big horse was having only his fifth start.

As a three-year-old, The Autumn Sun will carry only 49.5kg compared to Winx’s 57kg under the weight-for-age conditions of the Cox Plate, which has been won by 20 three-year-olds since its inception in 1922.

The Autumn Sun brilliantly won the Group 1 JJ Atkins Stakes at Doomben in June. He resumed with a luckless but very impressive third behind Tarka in the Group 2 Stan Fox Stakes at Randwick on September 1. Waller said plans were to run the colt in the Group 1 Golden Rose at Rosehill on September 22, and then it was on to the Caulfield Guineas.

The Autumn Sun could be the best colt of his generation we have seen since So You Think, and if that’s the case he could be right up with the best colts we have seen in Australia.

He has a rich pedigree in which he inherits his stamina from his Irish dam, Azmiyna, a daughter of the magnificent Galileo, and who is a half-sister to former champion galloper Azamour. This is a family imported to Australia through a

relationship between John Messara’s Arrowfield Stud and the Aga Khan, who bred and part-owns Azmiyna.

The Autumn Sun was a $700,000 yearling at 2017 Inglis Sydney Easter Sales.

He was bought by and is managed by former trainer Olly Koolman, representing the Hong Kong-based Hermitage Syndicate, headed by Eugene Chuang, who has developed a magnificent property named Hermitage Park, southwest of Sydney.

Ironically, Winx and The Autumn Sun spell at Hermitage Park.

It’s Chuang and not Waller who will make the decision as to whether his colt takes on Winx in the ultimate test.

Koolman said “the boss” Chuang loves his racing but has a single ambition: to win a Derby. The Autumn Sun is the colt who could do it. Koolman said: “He’s not a breeder, he’s not in it for the commercial side of things. His dream is to win a Derby. That’s what The Autumn Sun was purchased for.”

The Cox Plate is run a week before the Group 1 $2 million Victoria Derby at Flemington, and although six horses have completed the double, it hasn’t been done since Red Anchor in 1984. Current leading New Zealand sire Savabeel is the most recent Cox Plate winner to run in the Derby; he did it in 2004 when he backed up to finish second behind Plastered.

The Autumn Sun, here as a yearling, could trouble stable companion Winx on the track

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MUHAARAR

First yearlings averaging 6x his ÂŁ30,000 cover fee. #needforspeed

Buyers include Al Shaqab Racing, David Redvers, Langlais Bloodstock & Kerri Radcliffe Discover more about the Shadwell Stallions at www.shadwellstud.com Or call Richard Lancaster, James O’Donnell or Tom Pennington on 01842 755913 Email us at: nominations@shadwellstud.co.uk

Racing Life

Amy Murphy

Next Generation

Sarah Rodrigues talks to Amy Murphy, Britain’s youngest racehorse trainer, and daughter of respected breeder Paul Murphy

I

“

t’s incredibly important to get young people involved in and passionate about racing,” says Amy Murphy who, at just 25, is herself one of the sport’s youngest trainers. “Many people don’t even realise that Great British Racing has this fantastic offering for under-18s, so it’s been great to support the campaign.”

Amy is referring to her role in ‘The Final Furlong’, the fifth and ultimate episode in Horsing Around, a series of comedy sketches created to promote Great British Racing’s Under 18’s Race Free campaign, which gives accompanied under18s free admission to racedays. Last year, the initiative helped increase attendance at family days by 264,390, a rise of 1.13%, while advanced ticket sales were up by 2.2%; additional raceday activities, such as pony rides, are also designed to spark enthusiasm in a younger audience, while the website contains fun stuff like emoji quizzes and a horse name generator.

Humour is, of course, a powerful tool in engaging the next generation of race enthusiasts - which is why Horsing

Around stars David Walliams, who plays embarrassing father to young actor Billy Jenkins. Yet while having the opportunity to work with the Little Britain and Britain’s Got Talent celebrity might strike stars into the eyes of many, for Amy, it was nothing compared to Willie Mullins introducing himself to her after her horse, Kalashnikov, won the Betfair Hurdle in February this year.

“It was surreal,” she says. “There’s been no starstruck moment in my career so far to match it.”

Having held her training licence for only just over two years, Amy has already achieved an impressive number of wins in 2018, with a 33% strike-rate on the Flat. She has also recently completed the purchase of Southgate Stables, plus the process of moving her flourishing Newmarket operation from its former home at Michael Wigham’s Hamilton Stables.

“It’s fantastic to finally have our own premises; we’ve been searching for about four years but opportunities don’t come

Kalashnikov after winning the Betfair Hurdle under Jack Quinlan

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Amy Murphy’s career is going from strength to strength up very often at Newmarket,” says Amy. “I’m looking forward to expanding our operation.”

If Amy’s age and gender - she is one of few female trainers in what’s traditionally been a male-dominated arena - are what initially capture attention, then these pale into insignificance beside the sheer force of her commitment. Having started Pony Club, hunting and showjumping from a young age, she was in the stables every afternoon within minutes of finishing school, and at Nicky Henderson’s stables, where her father had several horses in training, every school holidays.

“Nothing else interested me,” she says.

“I left school at 16, gained a diploma in Equine Science at Hartpury College and then went straight into getting practical experience, including a five-month stint in Australia under Gai Waterhouse.

“It was inevitable that I’d become a trainer, which appealed to me more than jockeying, because of the relationship you develop with each and every one of the horses,” she adds, shrugging off the length and complexity of her working week, which allows her very little time for anything else. “I’m grateful to Kalashnikov because of the role he played in putting me in the bigger picture, but I have no favourites; I adore them all.” www.under18sracefree.com www.amymurphyracing.com

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Home

THREE THINGS As the cooler weather and darker evenings draw in, Sarah Rodrigues looks at lifting the mood

a hypnotically rounded view of the flames. Operational on either natural gas or propane, the stove comes in a standard matte black or optional grey. Created by the same designer, the Gyrofocus was the world’s first 360 degree pivoting fireplace and is ideally suited for residential or commercial spaces. www.focus-fireplaces.com

FOOTNOTE

Bare feet - they felt great when the weather was warm, didn’t they? Small wonder that few of us are willing to give them up for plummeting temperatures - and even less surprising that October and November are the Rug Seller’s busiest months, with homeowners keen to get underfoot-cosy. “We source new designs from all over the globe and there are some strong new looks for the coming season,” says design director Daniel Prendergast. Many of these - including natural sheepskins and faux furs - are affordably priced, making them an ideal choice for homes where the outside very often comes in, but there are several plusher options too, including handknotted Afghan rugs in rich hues,

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and designer rugs from the likes of Christian Lacroix and Wedgwood. www.therugseller.co.uk

BURNING LOVE

As the days get shorter, warmth is everything - followed closely by aesthetics, of course - which is why Focus has launched the Boafocus to mark its 50th anniversary.

Founder Dominique Imbert was inspired, as a child, by a drawing in Antoine de Saint Exupery’s, ‘The Little Prince’, which depicts a boa constrictor which has swallowed an elephant - and reimagined the image as a stove. Combining lines and curves, the new Boafocus can occupy a central or wall-mounted position, and its double-walled hemispherical glass porthole offers

LIGHT RELIEF

Long summer days lend themselves perfectly to flooding the home with natural light, but it’s probably even more important to maximise the daylight in the darker months, according to behaviour expert Richard Daniel Curtis. “During the winter the ability to feel the daylight indoors will brighten the mood,” he says. “This helps to avoid the negative feelings associated with being inside with artificial lighting all of the time.” New research, carried out by aluminium glazing specialists Express Bi-folding Doors, has demonstrated that 70 percent of British homeowners claim that natural light improves their mood and wellbeing all year round - and that they are willing to pay more for the luxury of having it. The company, established in 2007, manufactures all of its products ranging from aluminium bi-fold doors and in-line sliding doors, to windows and roofing systems - here in the UK. www.expressbifolds.co.uk

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21/09/2018 16:17

Racing Life

PARADISE FOUND Sarah Rodrigues stays at the Outrigger Konotta, and discovers that the destination is absolutely worth the journey Smiling staff are there to greet you as you arrive

W

e don’t yet know that the letters, suspended from a wooden archway on the arrival jetty of the Outrigger Resort, spell out Maruhabaa - ‘welcome’ in Maldivian - but the smiling faces lined up to greet us say it, ever so eloquently, anyway. Located in the Gaafu Dhaalu atoll, in the southern end of the Maldives, the resort isn’t the easiest of places to access - from London, we’ve changed in Dubai and flown to Male, where we were met by an Outrigger representative who arranged for us to get on an hour-long domestic flight to Kaadedhdhoo. From here, a speedboat whizzed us, rather stomach-lurchingly, to the island. The bottles of iced tea we were given when we boarded were a lovely touch, but it’s safe to say that we didn’t manage to drink a drop of them.

Still, how can you expect to reach paradise without a fairly convoluted journey? If the Outrigger Konotta was easy to get to, it wouldn’t be as remote and untouched as it is - and in any case, it’s not as if you have to lift a finger once you’ve arrived. The devotion to guests’ care and comfort is extraordinary, and any memory of the arduous travel soon fades when we’re walking the narrow strip of fine white sand to stand with our feet in that water of impossibly shifting blues, the sight of

which had glued us to the plane windows on the final flight.

Inevitably, the fatigue eventually catches up with us - and where better, to give in to it than the supremely comfortable beds of our beachfront villa?

I have never known pillows, nor sleep, like it. It’s almost lunchtime by the time any of us surface, but our absence at breakfast has been noted and it’s not long before our villa host is at our door with a tray of

fresh pastries, juices, coffee and fruit. Who wouldn’t tackle such a journey when this level of attention awaits at the other end?

For an island that’s less than one square kilometre in size, it’s amazing how easy it is to fill the days. The accommodation, so often just a place to change and sleep, is so beautiful and luxurious that it’s often difficult to drag ourselves away from it: set over two floors, it features a vast living space, huge bedrooms, enormous bathrooms - one with a decadent circular free standing tub - an outdoor terrace and a private pool. Dense foliage separates us from the beach, and adds to the feeling of utter privacy and seclusion; occasionally, down the narrow pathway that leads to the beach we glimpse someone strolling on the sand - other than that, our only visitors are a series of cheeky lizards. The lagoon villas lack the foliage, but on the other hand you can descend the ladder from the side of your pool directly into the waters of the Indian Ocean to swim with baby reef sharks and luminous fish.

Unusual though it is for every villa to have a decent-sized pool rather than a mere plunge pool, the communal pool has its own appeal as well - not least its proximity to the bar. Lined on two sides by curtained pool beds, you can be as sociable or as private as you choose - and the electric sockets and strong WiFi signal even mean that, if needs must, you can check in with work. As far as daily offices

A speedboat delivers you to the resort’s welcome jetty

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Maldives

“How can you expect to reach paradise without a fairly convoluted journey?” go, this one is pretty hard to find fault with - although some bosses might take issue with the constant staring out at the blue of the sea, just beyond the pool’s infinity edge.

Snorkelling gear is available free of charge from the dive centre, where other activities, including jet skiing, windsurfing and water skiing can be booked. From the back of our villa, we can cross the sand and walk just a few steps into that first stripe of milky blue water, to be immediately surrounded by darting fish and sculptural coral formations. Venture further out, to where that pale blue becomes a startling azure, and you’re at the drop, the edge of the reef, immersed in an otherworldliness that’s as astonishing as it is humbling.

Yes, the coral has been bleached by rising temperatures, but diligent regeneration efforts are already bearing fruit, and the patches to which colour has tentatively returned are wonderfully vivid.

Bright schools of fish flick in dazzling displays of synchronicity, huge clams lazily open and shut their crimped lips, and iridescent scales disappear into deep crevasses too quickly for me to identify all of their colours.

Resident marine biologist, Joan Li, is passionate on the subject and eager to raise awareness of the issues among guests, with the OZONE (Outrigger’s Zone) initiative, as well as by way of talks and guiding. Those who have never snorkelled before can have instruction in the pool; for guests who don’t like to get wet (and surprisingly, given the location, there are many of them) there’s the option to explore the reef via a semi-submarine, which glides along the reef’s edge, allowing passengers to see the activity among the coral from one side of the boat, and the startling depths of the deep blue from the other. Guests can also join the resort’s monthly coral restoration workshop, which has so far given a second wind to over 400 branches of coral - and, given that plastic pollution is such a huge issue for marine

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Each villa has a substantial private pool life, the presence of an onsite desalination plant, which dispenses with plastic water bottles and ensures that fresh water in sterilised glass decanters is available all over the island, is reassuring.

If the thought of the Maldives has generally conjured up images of swooning honeymooners drinking champagne under the stars, then the mix at the Outrigger comes as something of a revelation. There are couples of all ages, and while the beachside barbecue dining option makes it perfectly possible to eat in a gentle blaze

of lanterns on the sand, there are also several families with young children. Time to oneself is made possible by an excellent kids’ club, cunningly located just opposite the sublime spa, with its five treatment rooms and hydrotherapy pool that aquapummels you into a state of floppy bliss.

Although the resort is small, its design also enhances privacy, so the Thursday night poolside cocktail party, hosted by the management, provides an enjoyably low key way to socialise with both staff and other guests before moving on to dinner.

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Lagoon villas enable you to jump straight into the sea from your deck

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Racing Life

Maldives

Dense foliage almost conceals the on-land section of the resort

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It’s difficult to articulate just how surprising the food was. On the one hand, we knew full well that a five-star resort wasn’t likely to serve up anything second rate; on the other, awareness of its isolated and difficult to reach location made us curious about the logistics of catering.

Personally, my curiosity was in no way sated - I still have absolutely no idea how the Executive Chef Chris Long, originally from Doncaster, and his team manage it - but the food, at every meal, was superb, not only spanning a huge range of choices but also sparklingly fresh, packed with zingy flavours and beautifully cooked, with dietary requirements met with apparent ease and genuine warmth. Astonishingly, every member of staff seems to know each guest by name and to know what their requirements are; as a coeliac I’m accustomed to swerving the bakery table at breakfast and stunned when a beaming waiter approaches my table and asks whether I’d like gluten free pancakes or French Toast. No less delightful is a night at Nala Rah, where the Teppanyaki chef throws razor-sharp knives in the air, makes an egg perform a dizzying breakdance on the flat edge of a blade and then throws it into the air before catching it in his hat - all of which would be impressive enough if the food wasn’t sensational, which it is, so much so that even the Japanese guests are beaming and applauding.

Aerial photos show the extent to which the vegetation has been allowed to spring back post-construction: from above, the Outrigger Konotta looks for all the world

Paradise is … fine white sand and crystal clear water like a dense jungle ringed by white sand, with the odd roof just visible, and the long leg of the jetty from which the over-water villas fan. Walking between restaurant, villa and spa by day, you wander down verdant tunnels of spiky foliage and bright flashes of flower, sheltered from the equatorial heat. Mosquitoes are, unsurprisingly, plentiful, but repellent is supplied in your bathroom; another thoughtful touch that leaves your spending money for coconut husk bowls from the gift shop, and coconut body scrub, produced on site, from the spa.

The thought of a long journey at the end of any holiday is never the happiest of prospects; at the end of this one, it’s

positively heartbreaking. As our boat scuds off towards the domestic airport, we watch the waving figures on the jetty until we can see them no more and I’m left to ponder the wisdom of one of the other guests, an Outrigger regular, who had told me that he was breaking up the journey in Abu Dhabi on the way back to the UK. “Oh, for a night?” I’d asked. “That’s such a good idea.”

He had looked at me incredulously.

“Seven nights,” he’d said, with a subtle but unmistakable emphasis on the ‘seven’. “You can’t just come somewhere like this and expect that you’ll be okay with going home again.” www.outrigger.com

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Art

Ancient Wares Marchant’s new exhibition focuses exclusively on early Chinese ceramics, writes Sarah Rodrigues

F

ounded in 1925 by Samuel Sydney Marchant, Marchant specialises in Imperial Chinese Ming and Qing porcelains, as well as jades, cloisonné, pottery and works of art. From its first site near London’s Chancery Lane, it originally dealt in arms and armour, plus paintings and continental porcelain, as well as oriental works but, a year after a 1952 move to Kensington Church Street, Samuel was joined by his son Richard and from then on specialised solely in oriental art.

October sees the first ever exhibition in the company’s 93 years dedicated entirely to early Chinese ceramic wares which, until now, have been the subject only of what Marchant have handled, published, exhibited and advertised.

Catalogues have been a key component of the Marchant offering since 1980, when the company produced ‘Chinese Blue and White - Wan Li to K’ang Hsi’. One catalogue was produced each year until 2004, when a second production, in November, was introduced, focusing on a private collection or a specially curated exhibition of pieces

from a specific period.

Marchant have had jade exhibitions every five years since 1995 including, in 2015, ‘Ninety Jades for 90 Years,’ which included jewellery, animals, desk objects and vessels, all dating from the Song to the Qing dynasty. They have also had exhibitions pf specific private collections, such as the Dr Lowell Young Collection of late Ming and Qing Blue and White in 2012 and, in 2011, The Bertil Högström Collection of Kangxi Blue and White.

In recent years, museums and dealers have increasingly been curating collections and exhibitions in early ceramics, which has in turn sparked a rising demand for such pieces. All 35 of the pieces in this new exhibition - entitled Chinese Ceramics from Han to Song - are distinguished by the Marchant values of authenticity, quality and provenance.

Notable pieces in the exhibition include the impressive Tang falconer which, at 62.5 centimetres in height, was de-accessioned from Japan’s Manno Museum of Art. There is also a selection of delicate bowls, including a Dingyao dish

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from the Linyushanren Collection, and two Jian ware tea bowls from the personal collection of the late Susan Chen, The Feng Wen Tang Collection.

Excitingly for the company, the exhibition includes a seated Han dog. Not only have very few examples of Han dogs in this position ever been recorded, but this is also the first time that Marchant has handled one.

Now in its fourth generation, Stuart Marchant, grandson of founder Samuel, is now the main buyer; his daughter Natalie joined the company in 2011 and specialises in the photography of the catalogues, and management of the website and advertising, as well as accompanying Richard and Stuart to viewings and auctions.

Coinciding with Asian Art Week in London 2018, which runs from November 1-10, the exhibition will be on display at Marchant’s gallery from October 29 to November 16. www.marchantasianart.com 120 Kensington Church Street London W8 4BH

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Racing Life

Fashion

Holland Cooper new hat collection

By Christopher Modoo

Christopher Modoo is a men’s style expert and has conducted suit fittings in both Buckingham and Beckingham Palace. He is often quoted in the press on matters of etiquette and correct dress, and writes a regular feature for The Rake magazine. Follow him on Instagram at @chrismodoo

J

ade Holland Cooper started her eponymous brand back in 2008 and, in this relatively short time, has carved a niche for quality products that are true to a passion for British manufacturing. The collection started with the aim of creating elegant clothing to bridge the gap between the west end of London’s urban sophistication and the requirements of an active rural lifestyle. Jade prides herself on her attention to detail and you will always find the most exquisite features and trims on her clothing and accessories.

Jade had a rather unusual path into the world of fashion; she previously studied at the Royal Agricultural College at Cirencester. Any brand with such links to the countryside would, of course, include tweed and the company has purchased a staggering 800,000 metres in the last year. Many of the patterns are to their own exclusive designs and feature an unusual twist of colour, which is often picked out in the lining or undercollar. As well as a thriving online business, plus stores in Bicester and Edinburgh, Holland Cooper has recently opened a shop-inshop on the fifth floor of Harrods. With the best of what the world’s brands and designers have to offer, Holland Cooper has flourished and is one of the most successful concessions on the floor. It is well worth a visit next time you visit Knightsbridge.

As well as beautiful ladies’ tailoring in refined silhouettes, Holland Cooper offer a capsule collection of gentlemen’s clothing and for

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AW18 they are also introducing a range of ladies’ hats, which are sure to be a success.

To ensure the excellent quality for which the brand is known, Jade is working with one of the oldest Britishbased hat makers, which was was founded in 1773.

“We’re so proud to be working with such renowned craftsmanship and history; our hat makers are trailblazers when it comes to British heritage pieces,” says Jade. “There is an incredible synergy between both brands and I am so excited to launch this collection”.

The right hat can transform the simplest of outfits and perform a role both stylish and practical.

On cooler days, they add a degree of warmth

and comfort without the bulk of an additional layer; they are also perfect for protection from a light rain shower.

The new collection is comprised of two styles, each available in three sizes. The trilby is a feminine version of the classic racing felt and is available in 12 different colourways, including camel, green, grey, chocolate, navy, burgundy and charcoal - so you will always be able to find the right one to complement your outfit. Each hat, ideal for a day at the races, is finished with a contrast band and the signature Holland Cooper rivet.

The panama hat is perfect for warmer days and trips to tropical destinations. Available in 16 different colourways, they are also made in England, with authentic paja toquilla straw sourced from Ecuador. With such a wide choice - and, at £129, such a reasonable price - it will be hard to choose just one. www.hollandcooper.com

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EXHIBITION OF

CHINESE CERAMICS FROM HAN TO SONG Monday 29th October - Friday 16th November 2018

Large Chinese chestnut and straw glazed pottery horse.

22 inches, 56 cm long; 21 1/2 inches, 54.5 cm high.

Tang Dynasty, 8th century.

• From the collection of Joan Irvine Smith, Orange County, California, USA. • Tested by Oxford Authentication Limited, certificate consistent with the above dating.

Catalogue available

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Racing Life

Social Calendar

Concours of Elegance with A Lange & Söhne H

ampton Court Palace in southwest London was the venue for the Concours of Elegance, which took place at the end of August. As a relatively new addition to the social calendar, this event is rapidly gaining popularity with fans of the golden age of motoring Sixty of the world’s rarest motorcars were displayed in the gardens, which were designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the 17th century and seen as England’s answer to Versailles in Paris. A unique feature of the Concours of Elegance is that the ‘best of show’ is decided by a vote of the participants rather than an arbitrary judging panel.

Complementing the Concours of Elegance, hundreds of other fine motor cars were on display, including entrants to The Club Trophy, which saw some of the UK’s most prestigious car clubs offering up their finest examples to an independent panel of judges and the winning Club Trophy car securing a place in the following year’s main Concours of Elegance event.

As well as a fine selection of vehicles, guests could enjoy lunch by the river with a glass of champagne and take the opportunity to view a well curated selection of complementary brands, such as Henry Poole of Savile Row who, with strong links to the RAC, had a stand displaying the Segrave tweed, a cloth specially designed to celebrate the historic trophy. There was also the

opportunity to have a wet shave or trim from St James barbers Truefit & Hill.

The main sponsor of the event was German watchmakers, A Lange & Söhne. Supporting his clear belief that “behind every invention and design are passionate people,” Lange CEO Wilhelm Schmid claims: “Cars and watches are far more than the sum of their properties and functions.”

He knows from his own experience that choosing the right car or the perfect watch is a very emotive matter. “The enthusiasm for timeless elegance, sophisticated mechanisms and top-quality craftsmanship links lovers of extraordinary watches with collectors of classic automobiles,” he says. “Every car authorised to participate in a Concours of Elegance is a formal and technical masterpiece of lasting value. The same is expected from A Lange & Söhne watches, made predominantly by hand.

“Whether they are models with basic functionalities or sophisticated

complications, there is only one goal for our watchmakers: to continuously push the boundaries of what is mechanically possible without compromising on the design. The result is timepieces whose technical and artisanal quality are as impressive as their clear aesthetic message.”

Visitors to the event had the opportunity to meet with the artisans who make the timepieces and, with the aid of a very powerful magnifying glass, see the intricate workings of an A Lange & Söhne watch.

I am sure that the Concours of Elegance will continue to grow in importance with the support of complementary luxury brands.

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Talking To...

Sophie Doyle is enjoying her life in America, on and off the racecourse

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Adam Sophie Beschizza Doyle

Sophie’s

CHOICE Sophie Doyle is something of a rarity anyway in being a

very successful female jockey but that exception to the rule is heightened further by her making a name for herself in the United States after taking the plunge and moving from Britain Interview: Tim Richards Photos: Jamie Newell

Y

ou spent two winters as an exercise rider in America before taking the plunge as a jockey over there. Before that you had been a leading apprentice in England, so what was the attraction of racing stateside?

I had spent a holiday working for Rod Simpson in Dubai, went back again and rode in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. I enjoyed those breaks and, the way my career was going at home, decided that I wanted to try America, ride track work, gain more experience and learn about the clock, which is so important in the States. I spent two spells in America and enjoyed the lifestyle. It was very different to England; none of the long hours of day-to-day driving to different courses and not knowing where you were going to be every couple of days.

You are now in your sixth year of riding in the US and recently passed the 200-winner mark, your mounts earning $5 million. Can you put your finger on the reasons for your career blossoming?

I spent a couple of years finding my way and testing the water – I have been riding here full-time for four years, having made contacts in California and Arkansas. The high points have been on Fioretti, winning a $75,000 race at Churchill Downs and a Grade 2 at Keeneland. She put my career on

the map. I also rode her in the 2015 Breeders’ Cup at Keeneland and that was fantastic because my brother James and mum Jacqui were there with William Buick. They made Breeders’ Cup day a very special occasion because the biggest sacrifice and hardest decision I’ve had to make was leaving my family and friends behind in England. At one stage I had even thought about going to Australia to ride but that would have been too far away from my family. I am a home bird, really.

Was it tough trying to make contacts and establish yourself in the States?

It was very tough – I didn’t have anyone to help me and had to make my own contacts. I was at Santa Anita and Hollywood Park in California and got in touch with trainers and told them I wanted to continue my career as a jockey. I wanted to work for as many trainers as possible and would walk through the barns talking to trainers and their staff, trying to establish relationships. When I was growing up I was very shy and mum used to say to me if you’re not going to talk to people you can go and sit in the corner. I now realise how much her encouragement helped me. And, as a result, I have been able to come out of my skin. I must say it was quite intimidating walking through those barns and

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Talking To...

“You have to work twice as hard to be a professional female jockey, wherever it is” ›› approaching trainers I had never met

before. But it had the desired effect. I eventually ended up riding as many as 14 on breeze mornings, jumping off one horse and straight on to another.

How big a part does your agent and former jump jockey, Penny Ffitch Heyes, play in your success?

Penny has played an enormous part.

Agents in America play a different role to those in England – Penny would come out to the barns trackside and talk to the trainers and make

face-to-face contact all the time. Penny was agent for Randy Romero and I used to ask her what was the secret behind Randy’s success. She said he would go out believing he could win on every horse he rode, whatever the odds. He simply believed in himself and had a great work ethic. Not a bad example to follow and Randy has become a very good friend.

You have enjoyed plenty of success riding at Arlington Park in Chicago. Is this where you are based?

I have been based at Arlington for five months from May to September. Then I’ll ride at Hawthorne for a couple of weeks before moving to Fair Grounds in New Orleans for five months through the winter. When I spent four months working for Kellyn Gorder, who had 60 horses in Kentucky, I found riding work at Churchill Downs was a great learning experience.

Riding there in the mornings taught me a lot about which part of the track to be on in particular races there. I rode my first US winner at Churchill on Jazz N Tap. I then moved to Hawthorne and have ridden at Fair Grounds, Santa Anita, Arkansas and Keeneland, among other tracks. I am the third leading rider at Arlington this year; I had my sights set on reaching 50 and I achieved that goal.

Is it harder for a female jockey to be successful in Britain, compared with America, based on your experiences?

It is equally hard anywhere you go. You have to work twice as hard to be a professional female jockey, in England, America, or anywhere in the world. Persevere, believe in yourself and at some point it will pay off.

There is a very good saying, ‘Hard work can overcome talent.’ Female jockeys have

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Sophie Doyle

Sophie Doyle’s perseverance has seen her become established as one of the leading riders at Arlington in Chicago, where she is pictured here and in action, below, in September

realised they have to work just as hard and be as fit as the next one, female or male.

Jockey coaching and strength and conditioning classes at Oaksey House and Jack Berry House in England have been a fantastic help. The accent on fitness is just as strong in America for the females. The hard work has to be done if you’re going to make it – female riders realise that more than ever now.

How long do you plan to stay and what are the big lifestyle differences between the US and Britain?

I plan to stay as long as I can and I’m about to renew my visa again for another five years. I shall also apply for my Green Card, which would give me ten years’ employment. When you are racing at one track for several weeks you are in the one place and not having to drive all over the place, like in Britain. At Arlington Park we race four days a week and have every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday off, but we do work horses every morning, though I try to have Monday mornings off.

Away from racing I like to join my

boyfriend, Chris Davis, who trains at Arlington, and go fine dining or wine tasting together. We may go out in a boat for an afternoon or even jump on a plane somewhere. I also have a horse of my own – Jazz N Tap, who gave me my first American win at Churchill Downs. I go off and ride him for pleasure, sometimes dressage, showjumping and cross country. That’s when Jazz N Tap, who is now seven, is not ponying horses on the track. He gets the best of all worlds.

Can you explain how you have adapted your riding style since moving to America and why the changes have been necessary?

First of all, I have to be very sharp on my times, both in the mornings at work and of course in the races. I also have to adjust to each track because they ride differently.

All the dirt tracks vary; some are more sand-based, some are more clay-based and you have to adapt accordingly depending whether you are on a dry track or a wet track.

In the saddle, I have had to be more

solid in my legs and keep still; not so much movement with my legs, stay closer to the saddle and keep my elbows in. I took up boxing classes and did a lot of shadow boxing and learnt jabbing and upper cuts, which keep my elbows in and helped to strengthen my shoulders. I need a stronger upper body.

I have been on Mike Smith’s mechanical horse, Kenyatta, and Mike even took me up Mount Wilson near Santa Anita several times. We’d run three miles up steep gradients; Mike taught me a lot and has become a good friend.

Your mum Jacqui Doyle is a former amateur jump jockey and trainer. Does she still play a part in guiding your career, even though you are separated by the Atlantic Ocean?

Yes, she does. Mum is my number one fan!

She is a huge influence. For any parent to sit up and watch every race you ride, particularly with a six-hour time difference, is amazing and a wonderful boost. When I come in from racing she has messaged me: ‘Well done… could have gone better… don’t

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Talking To...

Sophie Doyle

CLOSE UP AND… PERSONAL

Favourite dish to cook… grilled gammon, cabbage and parsley sauce Perfect day off is spent… riding my horse Jazz N Tap Can’t get through the day without… my mobile Four dinner party guests… Mum, brother James and grandparents Joey and Mor-Mor Actress to play me in a film… Jennifer Lawrence, who is tough and strong

CLOSE UP AND… PROFESSIONAL

Greatest thrill in racing… winning a Grade 2 on Fioretti at Keeneland My racing idol is… Rosie Napravnik, a huge influence as a jockey Favourite courses to ride… Epsom Downs and Churchill Downs Best advice I’ve been given… this game is not for the weak-minded My ambition is… to be the best jockey I possibly can, and win as many races as I can

›› worry… keep your chin up’. Knowing she is

there all the time is just fantastic. If it wasn’t for mum neither my brother James nor I would be in the position we are now. She made a lot of sacrifices to support us and encourage us to become the jockeys we are today. She is involved in racing as a horse lighting therapist and writes about racing for Gulf News in Dubai during the winter.

Younger brother James has been enjoying a terrific season at home. How often do you talk and what would it mean to you to compete against him at this year’s Breeders’ Cup at Churchill Downs?

We text a lot of the time and chat on WhatsApp. When I first started he gave me a lot of advice but not so much nowadays.

I remember when I first got a ride in a Graded stakes I asked him if I needed to do anything different. He told me, ‘It’s just another race, so go out and ride as great as you always do. Never worry about how much it’s worth.’ It would be amazing to ride against James in the Breeders’ Cup – or anywhere for that matter. Just to ride against my brother again would mean a lot.

Do you need to be more of an athlete to perform at your peak in America?

You might ride six to eight horses in the morning and you could be riding ten races a day, so you need to be fit. After riding in the morning I’d have a quick lunch, take a nap and then go to the gym for a workout of an hour and a half. Jockeys push themselves

Doyle with boyfriend Chris Davis, who trains at Arlington

as hard as ever nowadays because they are professional athletes – if you want to be up there with the best of them, then you have to keep up with them.

How has life in America changed you and how has it affected your outlook on life?

It’s changed me a lot. I left home at 26 and I’ve had to learn how to be independent

“I must stand up for myself, be myself and not worry about what others think” and think for myself. I have learnt from a lot of mistakes too.

I don’t think you learn in life if you haven’t been aware of your mistakes and put them right. Don’t blame other people; at the end of the day it’s always down to you.

That’s the bottom line. I am the one writing my story and I must stand up for myself, be myself and not worry about what other people think. And at the end of it all you have got to be happy.

What would it take for you to move back to Britain?

A very big retainer from one of the top trainers would make me give the move a lot of thought. It would have to be in my heart to move back home. But right now I have a great career; I have established my life here and I am enjoying myself. America has so much to offer, ski-ing, swimming in the ocean and many friends; always lots going on and so much culture. When I was in California I hiked up the mountains or went down to the sea.

What would you like to achieve in your career – and where do you see yourself in five years’ time?

I am 32 and what I have been doing seems to have been an inspiration to other people.

They message me about what they want to do, either being a jockey or travelling abroad. They tell me that what I have done has encouraged them to pursue a similar life, either riding or experiencing other parts of the world. They say I have shown them there is more to life than just being at home.

During my riding career I would like to win as many Graded stakes as possible and perform on the biggest stages. In other words, be recognised at the highest level.

Looking ahead five years is interesting; I’ll be close to 40 and saying to myself I had five years getting my career going, then five years establishing myself. After that, perhaps I’ll be thinking about being happily married and having a family.

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A Growing Influence

TAMAYUZ

A dual Gr.1 winner from the outstanding stallion family of Sea The Stars and Galileo, Tamayuz has sired 7 Gr.1 performers to date, including a Classic winner and a Champion Sprinter.

His 2018 average of 10% Black Type horses to runners, which includes recent Group winners Mustashry, Making Light and Hunaina, is impressive for a stallion standing at such a competitive fee.

He’s certainly maintaining the family tradition!

See his 2018 yearlings at the Autumn Sales

DERRINSTOWN STUD |

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Multiple Group 1 sire whose 2017 yearlings averaged €80,000

Tel: +353 (0)1 6286228 • info@derrinstown.com • www.derrinstown.com

21/09/2018 11:21

Retraining of Racehorses

Familiar face: Don Cossack, winner of the 2016 Cheltenham Gold Cup, prepares for action with rider Louise Lyons

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Adam Beschizza

A thrill to

COMPETE At the Retraining of Racehorses national championships, it’s not so much about coming home with a medal – just competing is reward enough for the majority of those taking part Words: Catherine Austen Photos: Majestic Photography

A

t most big horse shows, the atmosphere among competitors can be quite fraught. The very few that win are elated, naturally, but those that don’t are often disappointed and frustrated – with themselves and with their horses.

At Retraining of Racehorses (RoR)’s national championships at Aintree, sponsored by Goffs UK, the feeling is completely different. Every single rider is beaming from ear to ear, and every single horse is patted to within an inch of its life after its performance, good, bad or indifferent. The competitors are delighted to be here – many take selfies of themselves and their horses next to Aintree’s winning post – and are proud of their mounts.

“My aim is to ride a happy horse,” says Julie Frizzell, who has been competing Namibian – winner of the Queen’s Vase at Royal Ascot and the Gordon Stakes at Glorious Goodwood in 2011 – in the elementary-level dressage classes at the show. “Would it bother me if I never competed again? No. What matters is that ‘Barney’ is happy in his work.”

In fact, Barney scores 75% to win the elementary dressage to music championship, and Julie bursts into tears.

“That’s a lifetime personal best for me on any horse – I’m 48, and I’ve ridden since

I was seven,” says the retired RAF wing commander.

What makes her story truly remarkable is that Julie is a para rider – she has no ulna in her right hand, so her wrist is permanently dislocated.

“I have to do a lot of stuff one-handed, and Barney’s attitude is outstanding; he’s like a pet Labrador on the ground,” she says.

“He can be cheeky when ridden, but he always tries, and is very affectionate.”

Namibian is one of a dozen or so very familiar names here at Aintree – Don Cossack, Franchoek, Carlito Brigante, Always Waining and Time For Rupert among them. But the majority of the 316 horses competing in showing, dressage and jumping at this six-day spectacular did not have distinguished racing careers. They were ordinary horses running in ordinary races – or not even getting that far.

Master Wickham ran eight times for Paul Webber without drawing attention to himself, and Mansfield vet Claire Lewis got him a month after his last run, in February 2015. They are competing at dressage today, but their real love is eventing.

“He’s a bit of a cool cucumber who loves his jumping,” says Claire with a smile.

“He was useless when he was racing – he liked looking pretty out the back – but we

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The first son of a 6-time US Champion Turf Sire at stud in Europe:

KITTEN’S JOY BOBBY’S KITTEN ONLY 3YO EVER to win Group 1 Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint Exceptional First foals 2018 The first son of a great Champion at stud:

SEA THE STARS SEA THE MOON Sensational 11 length German Derby winner; Champion 3yo and Horse of the Year A successful first season sire in 2018 10 individual first crop winners (to 20/09) including a Group 3 winner The last representative of his sire line at stud in the UK and Ireland:

MILL REEF SIR PERCY Unbeaten Champion 2YO and Derby Winner Stakes sire again in 2018 info@lanwades.com • www.lanwades.com • Tel: +44 (0)1638 750222 • Fax: +44 (0)1638 751186

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The independent option TM

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Retraining of Racehorses ›› qualified for the Mitsubishi Motors Cup

at Badminton [a prestigious grassroots eventing competition that runs alongside the famous horse trials] this year and were one of only seven clears across country inside the time.”

They won the RoR three-phase challenge at Floors Castle horse trials this year – and won their British Eventing section at the event the following day.

“We call him Kevin – he can be a bit ‘it’s so unfair!’” Claire explains. “He’s a real character and I love him.”

Master Wickham bled when he was racing, and also broke a splint bone. Claire’s veterinary skills mean that she is ideally equipped to manage the physical issues that the demands of racing often leave on horses.

“You need to be aware that their bodies have done a lot,” she says. “He requires a lot of warming-up and cooling down before and after work, and he gets fed a lot of fibre and no high-energy foods.”

This attention to detail and acceptance of the foibles of their horses is common among RoR riders and is a pleasure to see.

“I look at these horses and think, ‘Wow, they are so lucky,” says RoR Chief Executive Di Arbuthnot. “We are building up a community for former racehorses, whether they were good or bad [at racing].”

In the past few years, RoR has “mushroomed”, according to National Coordinator Anne Walker.

“Ex-racehorses are so versatile; they can do everything,” she says, “and we are working hard to break down the disconnection between racing and other horse sports.”

This is evident in the huge number of

Namibian and Julie Frizzell won the elementary dressage to music championship

From welfare case to Horse of the Year candidate

››

Right You Are and Charlotte Bowery

The 18-year-old chestnut Right You Are competed in the elementary-level dressage classes at the RoR Goffs UK National Championships at Aintree with Charlotte Bowery.

Charlotte’s mother, Fiona, explains: “Charlotte was working at the Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre [now the British Thoroughbred Retraining Centre] when he came there as a welfare case. He had come out of racing following injury, and we aren’t sure what happened then. A lady took pity on him and thought that she could offer him a home, but he was a lot more than she could manage, and she gifted him to the TRC. “He was in very poor condition, and when the vets assessed him they didn’t think he would be able to do a lot, because he had so many issues. He was very stressed and nervous, and had emotional as well as physical problems. Charlotte fell for him and they developed a bond. It took her eight months to try to get on him, but she kept persisting, and she took him on full loan from the TRC. “With consistency, routine, a calm approach and structure, he has gone from strength to strength; he is an absolute joy and he and Charlotte are such a solid partnership. He was nominated for the RoR Horse of the Year title last year and thrives in the dressage arena. We have had no expectations of him, but it has been so rewarding.”

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Retraining of Racehorses “We try hard to inform the racing industry that there is an avenue for ex-racehorses”

Claire Lewis with Master Wickham – known as Kevin – who is excelling in his new career

opportunities available for ›› competition them in all the equestrian disciplines – and the generous prize-money on offer. The supreme champions at Aintree, Hannah Horton and 15-year-old former hunter chaser What Of It, won £2,500 – nowhere in unaffiliated, grassroots horse sport would that be equalled.

This versatility and the thoroughbred’s natural bravery makes them probably more suitable horses for the average rider – albeit an educated, sympathetic and practical one – than the highly-bred, big-moving modern warmblood, whose natural habitat is an indoor school rather than the great outdoors.

Natalie Warren, who assists Donna Bamonte in co-ordinating the South West RoR region, is competing at Aintree on Tatawor, who ran nine times on the Flat.

They have been to the British Showjumping Championships, the Riding Club dressage championships and have hunted with the Heythrop and the Warwickshire.

“I can take him anywhere,” she says.

“He’s become our village pet, and we’ve even taken part in two parades in London on New Year’s Day – he just plods along!”

You’d be hard-pushed to find a dressage-bred horse that would take all that in their stride.

RoR is ceaselessly working to raise awareness of the opportunities it is providing former racehorses and their riders, and of the importance of giving

horses which almost inevitably retire from their first career at a relatively young age a positive, useful future.

Margaret O’Sullivan, RoR’s Operations Manager, says: “We have put on 14 parades at racecourses – nine of them at ARC courses – this year, which are supported by The Sir Peter O’Sullevan Charitable Trust, and have also paraded at events such as the Game Fair, Belton Horse Trials and Blenheim Palace Horse Trials.

“We try hard to inform the racing industry that there is an avenue for former racehorses – if they are suitable, and owners come up to us all the time and want to learn about us and what we do.

“The vast majority of trainers won’t put unsuitable horses in to the [retraining] system, and want to place their horses in good homes. While numbers of abandoned horses are going through the roof, racehorses are not part of that. If they are, they are at least four steps [in change of ownership/care] from the trainer.”

Trainers often keep in contact with the new riders of their former charges, taking pride in their new careers. Charlotte Bowery, emboldened by her success and partnership with Right You Are, added Orrisan Jim to her “string” last year.

“His trainer, Alison Christmas, knew he was sensitive so she gifted him directly to the TRC, and she actually came to watch him here at Aintree yesterday – she was made up to see how good he looks and

how happy he is!” says Charlotte.

Deidre Johnston, wife of Namibian’s trainer Mark, follows his progress, says Julie Frizzell.

“She’s passionate about their youngsters having a grounding in flatwork, and I have definitely benefited from that.”

Every RoR rider interviewed at Aintree mentioned the support that the organisation offers, and the sense of community it engenders. There is a great deal of training offered to riders of exracehorses, including residential camps – a bit like Pony Club camp for grown-ups on thoroughbreds – and this is appreciated.

Anne Walker says: “The regional network acts a bit like a family, and we encourage team participation so that we all share in the journey these horses and riders are making. And most of us who work in the organisation have backgrounds in racing – we love putting something back.”

The racing industry doesn’t always do the right thing by its participants, but in the case of RoR, it has something to be very proud of.

November showcase On November 3, RoR is holding its ‘showcase’ at Aintree Equestrian Centre. Described as “an inspirational day dedicated to retraining your former racehorse”, there will be demonstrations and clinics, question-and-answer sessions with experts, displays, tradestands and “a grand final” demonstrating “the finished picture.”

Two weeks’ later on November 17, the RoR end-of-season party, including the Grassroots and Heart Awards, will be held at Doncaster racecourse.

For more information and to book tickets to either event, visit www.ror-events.org.uk

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MONDIALISTE FIRST FOALS IN 2019 FEE £6,000

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October Preview

All set for a BLOCKBUSTER Words: Carl Evans

After record books were ripped up in 2017 during Book 1 of the October Sale at Tattersalls, where turnover breached the 100 million-guinea mark for the first time, we take a look at what’s in store this year at Park Paddocks

W

ith 2,097 yearlings on offer, there is a horse for every buyer at Tattersalls’ October Sales.

There won’t be a buyer for every horse, and the number of yearlings at this and other sales requires some market readjustment, but good operators stay ahead of the curve in every industry, and racehorse ownership remains an undying passion, and in some cases a business.

Then there are the pinhookers, hoping to secure a fast breezer despite some underwhelming moments at auctions

five months ago.

Tattersalls Sales Director Jimmy George says: “Last year’s Book 1 sale was pretty extraordinary, but this year’s catalogue is another of extreme quality. That is plain for all to see, and there have been some huge catalogue updates since we went to print.”

Those updates include an increase in the number of £25,000 Book 1 bonuses that have been given to owners. In late July when the catalogue was rolled out, there had been 97 winners, but by midSeptember it had reached 120 and still

counting, with more than £3 million handed out since the scheme started in 2016. As George puts it: “You can win £35,000 for landing a maiden [prize-money and bonus], which is comparable to anywhere in the world. It’s a big thing for owners.”

Overproduction, and the correlation between it, the cost of putting a horse into training and low levels of prize-money in Britain, is a topic that will not go away, and it is not a surprise that this year’s October Sales include an additional 80 horses across the four catalogues.

Be at the ring when these Book 1 beauties come in . . .

Lot 103 from Camas Park Stud Filly by No Nay Never – Seeking Solace (Exceed And Excel)

Aidan O’Brien’s exciting two-year-old Ten Sovereigns is a son of No Nay Never, who has made a good start in attempting to replace his lamented late sire Scat Daddy. Timmy Hyde’s farm offers a full-sister.

Lot 109 from Newsells Park Stud Colt by Galileo out of Shastye (Danehill)

Shastye doesn’t know how to throw a bad foal, as her yearling prices have proven — witness the 3,600,000gns realised for this colt’s brother Sir Isaac Newton, let alone mention their fullsister Secret Gesture.

Lot 117 from The Castlebridge Consignment Filly by Gleneagles – Sitara (Salse)

From a family that has produced top fillies in Alexandrova and Magical Romance, and colts such as Rekindling and Golden Sword, is this daughter of a new sire to note in Gleneagles.

Her two-year-old half-brother, Sydney Opera House, is now a winner, and she sold for 240,000gns as a foal.

Lot 196 from Oaks Farm Stables Colt by Frankel – Where (Danehill Dancer)

This colt’s second dam was Guineas winner Virginia Waters, and while his dam, Where, managed one place from four starts, her first foal was Classicplaced Rain Goddess. Meet that filly’s three-parts brother by Frankel.

Lot 202 from Newsells Park Stud Colt by Dubawi – Yummy Mummy (Montjeu)

Human yummy mummies tend to have well-groomed offspring, and the equine

version is no different as the dam of Classic winner Legatissimo. Add a dash of Dubawi for something to behold.

Lot 217 from Lodge Park Stud Colt by Galileo – Alluring Park (Green Desert)

Alluring Park’s record with yearlings at Tatteralls is second to none.

How about 1,200,000gns in 2011, 5,000,000gns in 2013 and 1,250,000gns in 2015? This colt is a brother to that trio, and a close relative of Derby winner and stallion New Approach. Think seven figures.

Lot 220 from Watership Down Stud Filly by Dubawi – Ambivalent (Authorized)

If Al Hilalee should add to his perfect two-from-two record and Deauville Listed win, this filly’s value is only going one way. She is his sister, by a great sire and out of a mare who won

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GEORGE SELWYN

Last year’s 4 million-guinea top lot, by Galileo out of dual Grade 1 winner Dank and now named Maria Danilova, takes her turn in the ring

Nor will it come as a shock that the biggest increase is found at the lowest level, in Book 4, which now occupies a standalone session on Saturday, October 20. It contains 122 catalogued yearlings, up 74 on last year, although with a 9.30am start there should be plenty of time for buyers to

the Pretty Polly Stakes.

Lot 295 from Voute Sales Filly by Kitten’s Joy – Celestial Woods (Forestry)

Consignors of yearlings by Kitten’s Joy must have been high-fiving each time Roaring Lion strutted his stuff this year. This filly, his daughter, is a fullsister to another American bred-sire, the Lanwades resident Bobby’s Kitten.

Lot 298 from Barronstown Stud Filly by Galileo – Chelsea Rose (Desert King)

A daughter of Galileo, out of a Group 1 winner, and with this year’s Grand Prix de Paris and St Leger winner Kew Gardens as a full-brother. What’s not to like?

Lot 321 from Airlie Stud Colt by More Than Ready – Dane Street (Street Cry)

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attend the sale and reach a television before the start of QIPCO Champions Day. For the record, Book 1 has an additional 17 lots, while the biggest of the four catalogues, Book 2, has 804 catalogued yearlings, one fewer than last year. Book 3 is down in number by ten.

Skitter Scatter’s Group 1 Moyglare Stud Stakes win for Patrick Prendergast was a smart update for this colt, who is her half-brother.

Lot 325 from Watership Down Stud Colt by Dubawi – Dar Re Mi (Singspiel)

This could be the showstopper, for his parents are top class and his full-siblings include the John Gosdentrained Lah Ti Dar and Too Darn Hot. Think Broadway.

Lot 371 from Norelands Stud Colt by Galileo – Fleche D’Or (Dubai Destination)

Unraced Fleche D’Or produced a good filly by Champs Elysees called Eastern Belle, and a better colt by Cape Cross called Golden Horn. What she has achieved through a mating with the king of stallions can be witnessed in this colt.

George says: “There is an optimum number of horses for the October Sales, and we’ve had to manage the quantities carefully. I think the team which compiles the catalogues has done a fantastic job. It’s a challenge and we are acutely aware of that.”

Lot 383 from Houghton Bloodstock Colt by Oasis Dream – Galicuix (Galileo)

Colin Murfitt bought Galicuix for just 8,000gns in 2013, the year she foaled future Guineas winner Galileo Gold. With that result she deserved an upgrade in stallion, and this is the result.

Lot 388 from Castlefarm Stud Filly by Invincible Spirit out of Ghurra (War Chant)

Meet Shalaa’s sister, whose page is liberally sprinkled with black type. She need never race.

Lot 390 from Horse Park Stud Colt by Dark Angel – Girl Power (Key Of Luck)

Dutch Art’s mating with Girl Power resulted in Slade Power, and Dark Angel could well add some power of his own.

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October Preview ››

Talk of the trade

Swinburn: ‘We need better prize-money’

Ed Harper of Whitsbury Manor Stud says: “The top of the market will be strong for yearlings by the right stallion and with a good female pedigree. If you are in the wrong sale, i.e. you don’t quite have what is required in Book 1, you could fall through the cracks, and if you just miss out on the fashionability of your stallion in Book 2 you could suffer, but if you’re on the right horse you should be well paid.”

Chris Budgett of Kirtlington Stud says: “People are talking about bigger catalogues, but this is not the biggest at the October Sales. The problem is not the number of horses, but the number of end users – it’s stupid to produce more horses if the end users are not there to take them.

“I understand the theory of producing more horses to create bigger fields on the racecourse, but most breeders are producing horses for the sales, not to race them [themselves]. And everyone wants fashion before proven sires.”

Maurice Burns of Rathasker Stud says: “The market is what it is, and you have to look at it over a five-year period. Some years your stallion is going well, some years not so well, but that’s the nature of horse trading.

“Most of the yearlings we sell are homebreds, so we go to market with the aim of selling. They can’t all turn a profit, but if they become racehorses we hope to get a better price for the mare’s progeny next time.”

Michael Swinburn of Genesis Green Stud says: “The good will sell well, but until prize-money picks up the ordinary will be difficult to shift. The bookmakers want us to produce horses for racing, but if Ikea was making tables for £100 and getting only £50 for them, they would stop production. If they want us to produce horses for racing we need better prizemoney.”

Llety Stud’s David Hodge says: “I

David Hodge, breeder of Soldier’s Call

Richard Kent: positive start at Goffs UK

appreciate Book 4 is bigger this year, but we took four and sold them all last year, and they all had multiple bidders. I’ve no idea how trade will perform this year with that catalogue moving to a stand-alone session, but it will be interesting to see.

A number of the horses are owned by racehorse owners and it will depend on whether they want to sell them or not.

“It was hard to buy at Book 3 last year, and I’m hoping it will be the same this time, and I’m crossing my fingers that the good year we’ve had on the track will stand us in good stead. Winners at Royal Ascot and Goodwood are hard to beat.”

Richard Kent of Mickley Stud says: “Doncaster was good trade, and horses were judged on looks, irrespective of which sire they were by. We took 12 and sold ten and that’s given us a good start, but you have to do more talking than ever just to bring people in. You have to work harder, but a nice horse always sells.”

Ed Player of Whatton Manor Stud says: “I think it will be very similar to last year – if you are lucky to have horses on the lists of bigger buyers you will be in a strong position, but otherwise it will be tough.

Mum was pretty good...

Lot 120 from Highclere Stud Colt by Dubawi – Sky Lantern (Red Clubs)

Sky Lantern lit up the early summer in 2013, winning the Guineas and Coronation Stakes for Richard Hannon’s stable, and her first foal, a son of Dubawi, made 2,000,000gns at this sale last year. Could the fullbrother hit such a sales-ring high?

Lot 152 from Ashbrittle Stud Colt by Dansili – Talent (New Approach)

Talent by name and nature, and winner of the Oaks in 2013. Her first foal, a Dubawi filly, has yet to race, and while Talent won

as a two-year-old this colt might reward a patient owner and trainer.

Lot 183 from Hazelwood Bloodstock Filly by Dubawi – Voleuse De Coeurs (Teofilo)

Voleuse De Coeurs won the Irish St Leger and was not beaten far in Fiorente’s Melbourne Cup. Her first foal is this filly, and she’s by the right sire.

Lot 214 from Mountarmstrong Stud Colt by Muhaarar – Alexander Goldrun (Gold Away)

Alexander Goldrun’s form fills a large

part of the page for this colt, but five Group 1 successes cannot be ignored, and her momentous scrap with Ouija Board in the 2006 Nassau Stakes is no less forgettable. Alexander Goldrun’s yearlings fetch big prices, and here is the latest, by Shadwell’s new boy Muhaarar.

Lot 254 from New England Stud Filly by Gleneagles – Banimpire (Holy Roman Emperor)

If this filly does half as well on the racecourse as her dam, Royal Ascot winner and Classic-placed Banimpire,

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Hope springs eternal Kirtlington Stud

Chris Budgett says: “We are selling in Books 1, 2 and 3, and have a really nice filly by Nathaniel out of Tingling [Storm Cat] in Book 1. I spotted her at Arqana in December and felt she was too good to leave behind at the money she was fetching, so I put in a bid and bought her for €26,000. She’s a half-sister to four winners from the Bosra Sham family.”

Ed Player: ‘We’ve had a great year’

Anything with a slight issue or which is just short on sire power will be harder to shift, but that’s the way it’s been for some years. We’ve had a great year on the track, and hope that as a result people will support our draft.”

Breeze-up consignor’s view

Thomond O’Mara says: “There were too many breezers on offer in the spring and results suffered, but I don’t think that will impact heavily on the yearling market. The horses that were bought as yearlings with a view to selling as breezers were sold – it was the unsold yearlings that were harder to shift [at the breeze-up sales].”

Bloodstock agent’s view

Geoffrey Howson says: “I think there will be some good value in Book 1, because not every horse will tick all the boxes.

There are a lot of horses to get through in Book 2, and I think the first day of Book 3 will be competitive. I envisage trainers waiting for that session in the hope of getting a horse at a price that suits their budget. Overall it will be a sale where buyers can be selective.”

Whitsbury Manor Stud

Ed Harper says: “We have been ultracareful about the horses we have selected for Book 2. We have seven for that catalogue, including four Showcasings that would be as nice as any by the sire that we have sold – both on pedigree and as individuals.

Among them is an exceptional colt out of Belatorio [Oratorio] from the family of Gilt Edge Girl and Arcano. He should go down very well. Among our draft in Book 3 is a Showcasing filly who is a half-sister to four winners, and a couple of nice Due Diligence colts.”

Genesis Green Stud

Michael Swinburn says: “We have 18 in Book 1 and about 12 in Books 2 and 3.

We have a particularly nice Siyouni colt in Book 1 – he’s a half-brother to Aidan O’Brien’s Group 2-winning filly I Can Fly. We are also offering a couple of Frankel colts for Rabbah Bloodstock, and there is a Shamardal colt from the ‘Silca family’ who I think will be popular. At Book 2 one who could do well is a good-looking Al Kazeem colt – the sire has had an interesting year and a good number of winners for a sub-fertile horse.”

Llety Stud then she will be highly prized.

Being a daughter of Gleneagles is no hardship, judged on early sightings of his stock.

David Hodge says: “We have halfbrothers and sisters to plenty of winners in Books 2, 3 and 4 – winners of between 130 and 140 races – and if someone wants to buy a racehorse they will be there. Our sole Book 2 yearling is a

Camacho filly whose two-year-old halfsister Wedding Date won at the Chester May meeting. In Book 3 we have a close relation to Soldier’s Call [the Llety Studbred Windsor Castle and Flying Childers Stakes winner], being out of his grandam [Thicket]. In terms of pinhooks we have a Dawn Approach filly that was bought at the December Sale [8,000gns] and is a half-sister to a winner out of a stakes winner. She’s powerful, a lovely type.”

Mickley Stud

Richard Kent says: “At Book 1 we have a colt by Golden Horn that we bred in partnership with Lady Lonsdale, who raced the mare [Listed winner Delizia].

We are very pleased with him. He is being consigned by Norris Bloodstock – we felt Liam and Jenny Norris had done very well at Book 1 and would do a good job with the horse. Under our own name we are selling one, a Kyllachy filly, at Book 2, plenty at Book 3, but nothing at Book 4 – we get homesick and need to get back to the stud by the Saturday.

Heeraat [who is resident at the stud] has had 67% winners and placed horses to runners in his first season, but they have been bigger and not quite as precocious as we hoped. We’ll be hoping he can have three or four more winners leading up to the sales.”

Whatton Manor Stud

Ed Player says: “We have 33 horses for Books 1, 2 and 3, and a mix of homebreds, horses to sell for clients and some pinhooks. Among the colts in Book 2 is a Kingman out of Overturned, whose second foal has just gained black type, and a son of Dark Angel out of Minwah, while among our fillies is a daughter of Invincible Spirit out of Darysina in Book 1. Also in that catalogue we have a Shamardal colt who looks smart, and a Siyouni filly whose halfbrother was fourth to the 2.6m guineas horse [Prince Eiji] in an Ascot maiden.”

Lot 422 from New England Stud Filly by Dubawi – Jacqueline Quest (Rock Of Gibraltar)

Guineas ‘winner’ Jacqueline Quest gained consolation for being denied Classic victory in the stewards’ room by visiting Galileo four times. In 2016 she rerouted to Dubawi. A queen always dines at the top table.

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October Preview ››

Catridge selling for final time It is a sadness for David Powell’s many friends in the industry that Catridge Farm Stud is consigning at the October Sales for the final time.

Powell is part of a small partnership that owns the Wiltshire farm, which is to be sold. He intends retaining an interest in bloodstock and sales, but will sell under the name of another consignor in future.

Catridge Farm Stud’s final October Sale draft involves two colts in Book 2, namely a son of Hot Streak (Lot 866) out of a half-sister to Dubai World Cup winner Prince Bishop, and a colt by Al Kazeem [Lot 1069] out of a half-sister to multiple Stakes winner Simply Perfect.

Its Book 3 consignment contains another five colts plus four fillies, including a daughter of War Command [Lot 1324] who opens the two-day catalogue.

A Gale Force Ten colt [Lot 1714] could prove another well-bought Powell pinhook, for he cost 9,000gns and his juvenile half-brother, Billy No Mates, has now won twice for Michael Dods, while a Coach House colt (Lot 1899) who brings down the curtain on Catridge’s consigning role at the October Sale, has had a couple of updates that will do him no harm.

Powell says: “I’ve had a very good time and enjoyed my job enormously.

We started with two mares and a yearling in 1986, and since then have bred or sold more than 1,000 winners.”

While early attempts at selling from Catridge were not hugely successful financially, Powell established contacts that were to serve him well. Reflecting on those early forays he once said: “It was fun, less frenetic, and you got to meet a lot of people because it was a slower pace and not so commercial.”

David Powell

Philipp Stauffenberg

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‘Overproduction is not a theme in Germany, but it is nearly everywhere else’

S

tauffenberg Bloodstock enjoyed some stellar results at last year’s October Sale, and the German operation is returning with a further 16 yearlings.

Philipp Graf Stauffenberg and his wife Marion set up a bloodstock business in 1994 at their home, Schlossgut Itlingen, a 14th century castle based north-east of Dortmund. Initially their mares were boarded out, but in 1999 they were ready to welcome them home and take in boarders for other breeders.

Philipp first appeared on the buyers’ list at Tattersalls 20 years ago, when he purchased one filly at the Autumn horses-in-training sale. Return visits saw him buy the occasional mare, then in 2007 he began selling, and occasionally buying, foals at the December Sale.

Seven years later the business made its entrée as a consignor at the October Yearling Sale, and has not looked back, offering a mix of beautifully prepared homebred and pinhooked lots.

At Book 1 last year you offered a Galileo filly you had bought for 300,000gns, and resold to Godolphin for 575,000gns – do you have any pinhooks in your draft this time?

“In the past few years I focused on buying at the upper end for my pinhooking syndicate, and we did very well, with the aforementioned filly being a good example. She was by Galileo out of a Group winner, and I bought her for 300,000gns – so there was sire power, a very good dam and a good individual.

Do you call it a no-brainer?

“Last year, I felt prices for topend foals were extremely high, as there were very few matching the required criteria. I tried to buy, but on occasions didn’t even get a bid in as the prices soared through the roof.

I kept my hands down when prices passed my set limits by more than 30%. Whether I am right or not we will know after this year’s yearling sales.

However, on the last day of Tattersalls

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December Foal Sale I fell in love with a colt by Camacho out of Vereri Senes, and thought I could buy him for up to 40,000gns. Some very good judges thought the same and I spent 62,000gns. He was such a fantastic mover, and my friend and excellent judge Liam Norris described him as the best walker he had seen all week. He has developed into a jaw-dropping colt and I am very much looking forward to seeing the reactions of customers who inspect him at the sales [Lot 821]. And on top of that the stallion is having a fantastic year.”

“There was sire power, a good dam and a good individual; do you call it a no-brainer?”

You did extremely well with the only Sinndar yearling in last year’s catalogue, a foal of the mare Four Roses, who made 300,000gns. What is her Maxios yearling like, and is there any other horse in your draft who could be the surprise package this year?

“To answer questions about the offspring of Four Roses is a) very emotional, as she is so close to our hearts and has come up with some amazing results, and b) he should be a filly, as should have been her last eight foals – so what can I say? I hear favourable comments about last year’s colt from [Roger Varian’s] Carlburg Stables, and this year’s colt [Lot 1096] is, once again, a very good-looking, classy horse who knows how to use his legs. I am looking forward to seeing how he will be taken by the judges,

but it is always difficult to predict any outcome. Overall I believe I have a very good draft, but, to be honest, I am just hoping all of them show their best and the rest happens as it happens.”

You are selling a yearling by triple Group 1 winner Aquarelliste. It is your first association with the mare.

How did the colt come to be in your draft?

“I feel very honoured, that I have been asked by some exceptional breeders to prep and consign their yearlings. To put that into perspective, I started to consign at the October Yearling Sales in 2014, and since then have been able to offer just one yearling out of a Group 1 winner. This year I have two yearlings out of Group 1 winners, and a sister to a multiple Group 1 winner. My team and I are overwhelmed to be able to consign such a good draft with plenty of sire power and quality female lines matched by the individuals. To sell a colt by the extremely successful young sire Charm Spirit out of champion Aquarelliste, a mare everybody in our business knows, is quite exciting, and I am grateful to the connections for allowing me to place my hand on him [Lot 234].”

How do you think trade will be at the October Sales?

“Being in the business for quite a while now, I always try to be realistic. The circumstances have been better in past years, with the uncertainty over Brexit, a mad American president not taking care of anything outside his country, etc, but the wheel has to be turned on, and I am sure there will be some exciting results in the upper echelons, and some harsh results for those falling through the net. Overproduction is not a theme in Germany, but it is nearly everywhere outside the home country, and so I believe quality will do well and the rest will struggle. Ironically, isn’t that what horses in the wild would want to achieve?”

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OTAL

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Increase your chances of buying a good winner by choosing a Cheveley Park Stud-sired yearling at the Tattersalls October Sales

Dutch Art

Garswood

Intello

Sire of two Gr.1 winning sprinters and of the top class sprinter MABS CROSS in 2018.

Successful first crop sire in 2018, including the Gr.3 Prix du Bois winner LITTLE KIM.

Sire of 13% Black Type horses to runners in 2018 (to 17/9), including the Gr.1 winner INTELLOGENT.

13 colts • 10 fillies

5 colts • 4 fillies

2 colts • 4 fillies

Mayson

Pivotal

Lethal Force

Sire of 13 Black Type 2yos from just 3 crops, including Gr.1 placed TRUE MASON in 2018.

Multiple Champion Sire of Gr.1 winners LIGHTNING SPEAR and BLAIR HOUSE in 2018.

Record-breaking son of Dark Angel and a leading 2nd crop sire in 2018 with 36 individual winners (to 17/9).

8 colts • 7 fillies

10 colts • 9 fillies

15 colts • 13 fillies

Cheveley Park Stud Tel: +44 (0)1638 730316 • www.cheveleypark.co.uk • L@CPStudOfficial

Cheveley roster Owner Oct18_Chosen.indd 1

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Breeders’ Digest

Emma Berry Bloodstock Editor

Our bloodstock coverage this month includes: Sales Circuit: Business booming at Keeneland September Yearling Sale – pages 68-82 Caulfield Files: Exceeding and excelling on both sides of the world – pages 85-86 Dr Statz: Mastercraftsman set to join the elite battalion – page 112

British breeders on the speed in 2018

E

ighteen of the top 100 horses in this year’s Melbourne Cup weights carry a British suffix, while a further 40 were foaled in either Ireland, France or Germany, meaning that European-bred horses account for 58% of that number. Only 24 can line up for the great race on the first Tuesday of November but it’s reasonable to assume that horses from this part of the world will again play a dominant role.

Britain may be famed for its stayers but breeders in this country have had a good run in top-class sprints this year.

Most recently, Havana Grey, bred by Lady Caroline Lonsdale and Richard Kent, took the first running of the newly upgraded Flying Five on Irish Champions Weekend to become the first Group 1 winner for Tweenhills Farm & Stud’s Havana Gold, winner of last year’s TBA award for leading British-based first-season sire.

Marie Matthews has achieved yet more notable success via her 18-year-old broodmare Easy To Imagine, whose 2010 mating in the first season Captain Gerrard stood at Mickley Stud for £3,500 produced Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes winner Alpha Delphini. He followed his older half-brother Tangerine Trees into the history books as a Group 1 winner and further embellished the remarkable achievements of his dam, who was selected by Matthews for just 5,200gns.

Also flying the flag for British sprint breeding this season is The Tin Man, now six and the winner of three Group 1 races.

His recent win in the 32Red Sprint Cup came at his third attempt in Haydock’s premier contest, and he has now filled all three places in the last three years. Bred by Elizabeth Grundy, he is out of the Bishop Of Cashel mare Persario, who has given her connections plenty of fun over the years.

The 19-year-old is also the dam of Deacon Blues, who, like The Tin Man, won the big sprint on QIPCO British Champions Day but before it was elevated to Group 1 status.

Let’s hope that The Tin Man returns to Ascot to reclaim his title this year, and it is also fervently hoped that the horse who has in many ways stolen the season, Roaring Lion, lines up for his owner Qatar Racing on their biggest sponsorship day of the year.

Roaring Lion and Saxon Warrior, now sadly

Oct_170_BloodstockIntro.indd 67

Roaring Lion, left, in training in Newmarket, is in pole position to be Horse of the Year

retired, have provided some of the most thrilling clashes of the season. The pair have met five times this year, and six in total, with the widest margin separating them being the two and a half lengths by which Saxon Warrior beat Roaring Lion into fifth in the QIPCO 2,000 Guineas. While that was the pinnacle of the former’s career, Roaring Lion has done nothing but progress in admirable fashion since then and with three consecutive Group 1 wins under his belt and counting, he must surely be a contender for Horse of the Year honours.

With yearling sales now in full swing and the racing season edging into dusk, announcements of stallion retirements will start to come thick and fast. Roaring Lion will make a stellar recruit to the Tweenhills ranks in time, but a personal hope is that we have the chance to see the grey son of Kitten’s Joy race for one more season.

EIS REPORT TO COME

Shortly after this issue went to press, the TBA released the findings of its latest Economic Impact Study. We’ll bring you a full report of this in our November issue, by which time we’ll have further evidence of how well — or not — this season’s yearling sales are going.

As Nancy Sexton outlines in her roundup from Books 1 and 2 of the mammoth Keeneland September Sale, which was still

ongoing as we completed this month’s magazine, the North American market, at the top end at least, has returned to the extraordinary levels of trade last seen before the global recession.

It’s fair to expect Book 1 at Tattersalls’ October Sale to remain largely untouched by the travails of other sections of the industry, but with political uncertainty in Europe surrounding Brexit, contrasting with an economic boom in America, it would be a surprise if Newmarket witnesses trade of US proportions.

Sheikh Mohammed and Sheikh Hamdan were major players at Keeneland and, on the back of a return to the glory days for Godolphin this season, it’s fair to expect to see Sheikh Mohammed in particular continuing to play a significant role, particularly when the most talked-about horse in Book 1, a brother to Too Darn Hot and Lah Ti Dar, happens to be by Dubawi.

Many people will likely feel a twinge of sadness that after this season we will no longer see the name Catridge Farm Stud on the list of consignors. The Wiltshire farm’s co-owner David Powell has been a stalwart of the British breeding industry for many years and is as well liked as he is respected.

He will remain involved as a breeder and pinhooker after the stud is sold and we look forward to seeing his friendly face among us at the sales for many years to come.

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Sales Circuit • By Carl Evans Goffs UK Premier Yearling Sale

A colt from Newsells Park Stud doublebarrelled the record price for this sale when being knocked down for £380,000.

The sum, gained by a first-crop son of Coolmore Stud’s Gleneagles, was a £100,000 improvement on the top figure achieved three times in the past.

Despite this bulging addition, turnover took a 4% dip and there were declines of 11% in the average price and 5% in the median, not enough to shake traders’ confidence, particularly when an 89% clearance rate was achieved.

The sale was slightly down on the bonanza of 2017, but ahead of figures set in 2016.

SackvilleDonald’s Alastair Donald, whose key clients include Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha’s King Power Racing, signed the buyers’ sheet for the star of the show, but said training plans were undecided.

Goffs UK’s Managing Director Tony Williams described the transaction as “a huge achievement” and “a real statement for this sale”. No doubt the colt could have made a similar sum at any one of five or six European yearling

Newsells Park Stud’s first-crop son of Gleneagles set a new record for the Premier Sale

auctions, but Newsells Park Stud’s Julian Dollar and his team were keen to support Goffs UK’s Doncaster highlight, and seemed happy with the result.

The Premier Sale has become a conveyor belt for winners, and if the

Gleneagles colt boosts the record of his dam, 12-year-old Lady Eclair, who has bred two winners, including one at Listed level, then it will be job done all round.

The poster girl for this year’s sale,

Goffs UK Premier Yearling Sale Top lots Sex/Breeding

Vendor

Price (£)

Buyer

C Gleneagles - Lady Eclair (Danehill Dancer)

Newsells Park Stud

380,000

SackvilleDonald

F Acclamation - Swiss Kiss (Dansili)

Highclere Stud

240,000

Creighton Schwartz /John Dance

F Exceed And Excel – Stravina (Platini)

Abbeville Stud

200,000

Oliver St Lawrence

C Showcasing - City Image (Elusive City)

Croom House Stud

190,000

Shadwell Estates

F Acclamation - Sweet Nicole (Okawango)

Trinity Park Stud

185,000

Joe Foley

C Dark Angel - Age Of Chivalry (Invincible Spirit)

Highclere Stud

170,000

Peter & Ross Doyle Bloodstock

C Acclamation - Miss Gibraltar (Rock Of Gibraltar)

Rathbarry Stud

150,000

Richard Knight

C Oasis Dream – Quiet (Observatory)

Norris Bloodstock

150,000

HKJC

F Dark Angel - Wiltshire Life (Camacho)

Yeomanstown Stud

150,000

Cheveley Park Stud

C Cable Bay - Coin A Phrase (Dubawi)

Tally-Ho Stud

150,000

Shadwell Estates

Five-year tale Year

Sold

Agg (£)

Avg (£)

Mdn (£)

Top Price (£)

2018

420

19,066,500

45,396

35,000

380,000

2017

391

19,822,750

50,698

37,000

270,000

2016

396

17,455,000

44,078

34,000

280,000

2015

410

17,644,000

43,034

30,500

280,000

2014

418

15,512,500

37,111

27,000

230,000

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Overview and analysis of the latest events in the ring

The Lordship Stud-bred daughter of Acclamation and Swiss Kiss

Daniel Creighton was on the hunt for the next Laurens in Doncaster

four-time Group 1 and Classic winner Laurens, who was bought for £220,000 in 2016, is the latest evidence that the sale offers a greater emphasis on quality than in the past. Her owner, John Dance, invested in the sale’s second highest-priced horse when buying a daughter of Acclamation for £240,000.

Dance’s bloodstock advisor Daniel Creighton lowered the hammer, gaining a filly whose dam, Swiss Kiss, was one of nine winners out of the mare Swiss Lake. She and her relatives were designed and created at the Harris family’s Lordship Stud, and the yearling was consigned by Highclere Stud.

The sale of an Exceed And Excel colt who made £200,000 to a bid from Oliver St Lawrence on behalf of his client, Fawzi Nass, completed a trio of horses who made or bettered that sum. Twelve months earlier ten horses had done so, and 42 made £100,000 or more, a figure that became 37 at the latest edition.

Tally-Ho Stud’s 17 sales for £1,021,000 made it the top consignor, and Shadwell Estates became the leading buyer, taking 13 lots for

£1,453,000. Talking of leading buyers, Steve Parkin’s Clipper Logistics had spent just over £1,000,000 at last year’s sale, but that organisation’s racing advisor, Joe Foley, accounted for just three horses at the latest edition, for a

total value of £275,000.

Foley and Parkin had claimed the top lot of the sale in 2017, a Bated Breath colt subsequently named Victory Day, who made his debut for William Haggas on September 19.

Joe Foley buying for Clipper Logistics

Julian Dollar and Alastair Donald

Harry and Charlie Vigors and Mark Richards

Oct_170_SaleCircuit.indd 69

TALKING POINTS • There were mixed results for pinhookers, with the usual smattering of excellent returns, some disappointing reversals, and a good number of yearlings who paid their way. One pinhooker’s ‘guesstimate’ that 50% of pinhooked horses made a profit may not have been far off the mark, and serves as a reminder that buying foals to sell as yearlings is a numbers game – unless you get lucky.

• Highs centred on Mark Dwyer’s Oaks Farm Stables in Yorkshire, which converted a Society Rock colt from a 50,000gns foal into a £135,000 yearling, while Paddy Burns – son of Seamus and Patricia, younger brother of Damian and Ronan – selling under the name of Loughtown Stud for the first time, also gained £135,000 when offering his €52,000 Kodiac colt.

• Cheveley Park Stud’s commitment to Flat racing and breeding appears to be undiminished – it purchased smart two-year-old Rumble Inthejungle a couple of weeks after this sale, only for the colt to disappoint in the subsequent running of Doncaster’s Flying Childers Stakes – but its involvement in jump racing is also taking a more prominent role, in words and deeds. Hitherto, any jumpers owned by David and Patricia Thompson have run in Mrs Thompson’s name, but at this sale the stud’s director, Chris Richardson, revealed they would in future carry the familiar red, white and blue colours and run in the name of Cheveley Park Stud. A few hours later the change got off to a winning start when the Richard Fahey-trained Chief Justice romped home in a novices’ hurdle at Worcester.

››

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Sales Circuit ››

Goffs UK Silver Yearling Sale

Buyers who shunned the delights of Baden-Baden and remained in Doncaster after the Premier Sale cleared 82% of the 166 horses who walked the ring.

That was marginally down on last year’s very good 88% clearance rate, and there were slight falls in the other key indicators – turnover dipped 2%, the average by 13% and the median by 15%. The average price of just over

£10,000 was the lowest it had been since 2013, an indication that buyers at basement levels currently have plenty of choice.

Topping trade was a Clodovil colt who had been bred across the Channel

by John Kilpatrick’s J K Thoroughbreds, which is based in Normandy. Ger Morrin’s Pier House Stud acted as consignor for the grey colt, who was knocked down to agent Ross Doyle for £40,000.

John Fretwell, whose green colours were once such a familiar sight on British racecourses, and whose many good horses were headed by the 2007 2,000 Guineas runner-up Vital Equine, had no horses in training this year but intends doing so in 2019. Fretwell purchased three yearlings at the Premier Sale, and two of the top four at this auction, headed by a Dandy Man colt who made £39,000.

Goffs UK Silver Yearling Sale Top lots Sex/Breeding

Vendor

Price (£)

Buyer

C Clodovil – Apostrophe (Barathea)

Pier House Stud

40,000

Peter & Ross Doyle Bloodstock

C Dandy Man – Estonia (Exceed And Excel)

Battlefield Stud

39,000

John Fretwell

F Al Kazeem – Avessia (Averti)

Oakgrove Stud

36,000

Henry Candy

C G Force - Wee Jean (Captain Gerrard)

Tally-Ho Stud

35,000

John Fretwell

C Harbour Watch - Beldale Memory (Camacho)

Trickledown Stud

30,000

David Easterby

C Outstrip - Perfect Muse (Oasis Dream)

Aughamore Stud

28,000

JB B/s

F Equiano – Updated (New Approach)

Oaks Farm Stables

28,000

Peter & Ross Doyle Bloodstock

C Hallowed Crown - Phi Phi (Fasliyev)

Arrow Farm & Stud Furnace Mill Stud

26,000

Mick Appleby

C Equiano – Ewenny (Warrshan)

Trickledown Stud

26,000

Harry Easterby

F No Nay Never - More Is To Come (War Front)

Powerstown Stud

24,000

BBA Ireland

C Hot Streak - Dangerous Moonlite (Acclamation)

Catridge Farm Stud

24,000

Mayfield Stables

F Kodiac - Fingal Nights (Night Shift)

Tally-Ho Stud

24,000

Howson and Houldsworth B/S

F No Nay Never - Golden Lemon (Lemon Drop Kid)

Eli Creek House

24,000

Lars Kelp

Five-year tale Year

Sold

Agg (£)

Avg (£)

Mdn (£)

Top Price (£)

2018

136

1,385,400

10,187

8,250

40,000

2017

120

1,411,500

11,763

10,000

48,000

2016

114

1,256,500

11,022

7,000

46,000

2015

99

1,350,500

13,641

10,000

40,000

2014

105

1,252,500

12,160

10,000,

55,000

BBAG Yearling Sale

Siyouni’s popularity across Europe was maintained at this single-session yearling auction, where one of his colts made €280,000 to become the jointtop lot.

Matt Coleman, standing in for his bloodstock agency colleague Anthony Stroud, signed the buyers’ sheet for the Gestut Brummerhof-consigned youngster, who was bought on behalf of Godolphin. Sheikh Mohammed’s operation invested in two other yearlings, taking a €205,000 Golden Horn colt and a €58,000 son of Rock Of Gibraltar.

Joining the Siyouni at the top table

was a Gestut Etzean-consigned Sea The Stars filly who was bought by Tom Goff of Blandford Bloodstock. Goff said his purchase would be trained in Newmarket but he could not disclose further details. The filly’s half-brother, Matchmaking (Mastercraftsman), is a Newmarket resident, trained at Sir Mark Prescott’s yard for Wally Sturt.

Moderate at two, Matchmaking became a changed performer after being gelded, and has won four times this year, rising from a mark of 60 to 82.

Champion sire in Germany, Soldier Hollow, headed the stallion table, with 17 lots sold for €1,036,000, while another local sire, Amaron, did best among

The Gestut Brummerhof-bred Siyouni colt

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LATROBE G1 Irish Derby The Curragh GLORIOUS EMPIRE G1 Sword Dancer Stakes Saratoga LA PELOSA G1 Natalma Stakes Woodbine KEW GARDENS G1 St Leger, Doncaster & G1 Grand Prix de Paris, Longchamp

A trio of G1 winners led by Derby winner Latrobe underlined the world class reputation of the Goffs November Foal Sale in 2018, while highlights for the November Breeding Stock Sale included the multiple Group 1 successes for Kew Gardens whose dam Chelsea Rose was a Goffs sale topper in 2012.

Every November Ireland’s leading breeders send a selection of outstanding foals and mares to Goffs, sourced from the most prolific families in the Stud Book, and this year’s catalogue looks set to be one of the best yet.

Goffs November Sale 19 – 21 November 2018 22 – 23 November 2018 24 – 25 November 2018

Catalogues out 20 October 2018

PSRA Licence No: 001833

Foals (Part 1) Breeding Stock Foals (Part 2)

Sales Circuit ›› first-croppers with five sales worth

€290,000. Bred by Genesis Green Stud, Amaron, a son of Shamardal, won the Group 1 Premio Vittorio di Capua and now stands at Gestut Etzean.

Agent Rudiger Alles was leading buyer, taking six for €559,000, and Ronald Rauscher led consignors by virtue of 13 sold for €573,500, but the sale’s figures were down, with falls of 23% in turnover, 11% in the average price and 14% in the median. German vendors’ penchant for buying back their stock was evident in a 63% clearance rate.

Charlie Swan and Norman Williamson

Ralf Kredel of Gestut Etzean

BBAG Yearling Sale Top lots Sex/Breeding

Vendor

Price (€)

Buyer

F Sea The Stars – Monami (Sholokhov)

Gestut Etzean

280,000

Blandford Bloodstock

C Siyouni – Waldtraut (Oasis Dream)

Gestut Brummerhof

280,000

Godolphin

C Golden Horn – Ninfea (Selkirk)

Ronald Rauscher

205,000

Godolphin

F Amaron – Rondinay (Cadeaux Genereux)

Gestut Etzean

160,000

Meridian International

C Gleneagles - Norwegian Pride (Diktat)

Gestut Brummerhof

150,000

Peter & Ross Doyle

C Champs Elysees – Codera (Zilzal)

Stiftung Gestut Fahrhof

140,000

Stall Mandarin

C Pivotal – Kastila (Sternkoenig)

Gestut Rottgen

140,000

IVA-Alles

F Soldier Hollow – Wakytara (Danehill)

Gestut Park Wiedingen

140,000

RTC GmbH

F Soldier Hollow – Sortilege (Tiger Hill)

Gestut Karlshof

130,000

IVA-Alles

Five-year tale Year

Sold

Agg (€)

Avg (€)

Mdn (€)

Top Price (€)

2018

158

6,046,500

38,513

24,000

280,000

2017

165

7,688,500

46,597

28,000

500,000

2016

174

7,982,500

45,876

26,000

500,000

2015

148

6,402,050

43,257

30,000

400,000

2014

166

8,171,500

49,226

30,000

450,000

Osarus Yearling Sale

Team Osarus, backed up by its allies at Tattersalls, had good reason to break open the champagne after enjoying “the best edition of this sale to date”.

Those were the words of the sales company’s Emmanuel Viaud, who had witnessed the two-day auction of yearlings show increases in all the columns of note, and three horses making a six-figure sum. The €120,000 top price was the best since 2014, the clearance rate improved to 83%, and there were gains of 13% in the aggregate, and 6% in the average and median sums. These increases followed rises across the board 12 months earlier.

French-based sires Siyouni and freshman Anodin were responsible for two of the six-figure horses,

Peter and Ross Doyle made their first visit to Osarus with the Middleham Park Racing team

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THE WORLD’S STAGE Your opportunity for breeding success begins at Keeneland’s November Sale, offering the world’s biggest choice of mares, fillies and weanlings to suit every requirement.

L E A R N M O R E AT N O V E M B E R . K E E N E L A N D.CO M

Ed Prosser · European Representative • +44 (0) 7808 477827 Mobile · eprosser@keeneland.co.uk

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Sales Circuit ›› although Tweenhills Stud’s Havana

Gold joined them courtesy of a Yann Creff-consigned filly who was knocked down to Tina Rau and Nicolas Clement for €105,000. Rau said the yearling had been bought on spec, although a subsequent first Group 1 win for a member of the sire’s progeny – Havana Grey, who landed the Curragh’s Flying Five – will have helped the buyers find the filly a permanent owner.

The Siyouni €120,000 top lot was bought by Paul Basquin of Haras du Saubouas, while the €115,000

TALKING POINT • First time visitors to the sale included Ross Doyle, whose two purchases were headed by a €98,000 Dabirsim colt, although breeze-up pinhooker Con Marnane, who was the leading buyer in 2017, reduced his involvement markedly. Marnane bought 17 horses in 2016 for €244,000 and 13 for €413,000 a year later, but this time he settled for four lots and a total spend of €96,000.

Anodin colt’s buyer was Pierre-Yves Bureau, representing the sire’s owners, Wertheimer & Frere. Anodin, a brother of the brilliant Goldikova, and standing at Haras du Quesnay, was a Group 3

winner and Group 1-placed.

Siyouni was represented by one horse, Anodin by 11, and they helped him lift the position of leading sire by aggregate with sales worth €446,000.

Osarus Yearling Sale Top lots Sex/Breeding

Vendor

C Siyouni - Desert Sunrise (Green Desert)

Haras d’Haspel

Price (€)

Buyer

C Anodin - Bahia Gold (Woodman)

Haras de l’Hotellerie

F Havana Gold - Exceedingly Rare (Lope De Vega)

Ecurie Yann Creff

C Dabirsim - Amazing Bounty (Tertullian)

Haras de Grandcamp

98,000

Peter & Ross Doyle Bloodstock

F Kheleyf - First Chope (Indian Rocket)

Haras des Faunes

90,000

MAB Agency

F No Nay Never - Fast Lane Lili (Fasliyev)

Haras de Grandcamp

85,000

Haras Du Saubouas

C Anodin – Footloose (Numerous)

Haras de Langerais

80,000

Haras Du Saubouas

C Champs Elysees – Frasque (Iffraaj)

HSV

75,000

Barberini Bloodstock

C Manduro - Nova Luz (Divine Light)

Haras de l’Hotellerie

65,000

Meridian International

C Pedro The Great - Mofa Bere (Saumarez)

Haras de la Haie Neuve

65,000

Mandore International/Vidal

120,000

Haras Du Saubouas

115,000

Wertheimer et Frere

105,000

Tina Rau/Nicolas Clement

Five-year tale Year

Sold

Agg (€)

Avg (€)

Mdn (€)

Top Price (€)

2018

213

4,504,500

23,053

17,000

120,000

2017

201

4,001,000

21,674

16,000

105,000

2016

214

3,573,000

18,816

15,000

110,000

2015

182

4,053,500

21,445

18,000

70,000

2014

216

3,675,000

17,696

14,000

130,000

Tattersalls Ireland Ascot Yearling Sale

Staged by Tattersalls Ireland, but branded as Tattersalls Ascot Yearling Sale, this oneday auction of yearlings took a small step forward at its second renewal.

It remained a lower-tier event, as evidenced by a £46,000 top price, while an increased catalogue which resulted in an additional 39 lots walking the ring, did not help the clearance rate, which dipped from 75% to 73% (111 sold from 153 offered), but there were plusses too. There was a better balance of colts and fillies compared to the first staging which was top-heavy with fillies, and a wider group of consignors and buyers, which helped the number of sold horses rise from 85 to 111.

The increased quantity of horses

No Nay Never provided the top lot

resulted in turnover breaking seven figures, rising 39%, and there was a pleasing 7% improvement in the average price, while the median remained static.

It was not a great occasion for pinhookers, although it did provide an opportunity to move on those cygnets who had failed to become swans, and

for a few there was ample reason to smile. A partnership involving David Redvers and his marketing ally James Ford had the foresight to buy a No Nay Never colt foal last year for €16,000 and after the stallion’s cracking year on the track they were well rewarded when he was resold for £42,000 to fledgling bloodstock agent Billy Jackson-Stops and his clients, Al Rabban Racing.

No Nay Never was also responsible for the top lot, a colt offered by Peter Nolan and knocked down to Anthony Bromley and Alan King. The yearling’s dam, Duchess Of Gazeley, was a halfsister to King’s very useful handicapper Just In Time, who a few days after this sale won at Doncaster and looks likely to be a big player in the increased-invalue Cesarewitch.

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Sales Circuit ››

Tattersalls Ireland Ascot Yearling Sale Top lots Sex/Breeding

Vendor

Price (€)

Buyer

C No Nay Never - Duchess Of Gazeley (Halling)

Peter Nolan B/s

46,000

F No Nay Never – Amethyst (Sadler’s Wells)

Jamie Railton

42,000

F Dandy Man - Hucking Hot (Desert Prince)

Trickledown Stud

42,000

Highflyer Bloodstock/A King Al Rabban Racing/Jackson-Stops Bloodstock Peter & Ross Doyle Bloodstock

C Dutch Art – Expect (Invincible Spirit)

Jamie Railton

40,000

Howson & Houldsworth B/s

F Bungle Inthejungle - Lucky Leigh (Piccolo)

Rathasker Stud

36,000

Barberini Bloodstock

C Brazen Beau – Maziona (Dansili)

Springfield Farm/Owdeswell Stud

32,000

Harrowgate Bloodstock

C Shooting To Win - Ancestral Way (Mtoto)

Genesis Green Stud

30,000

Harrowgate Bloodstock

C Pastoral Pursuits – Finalize (Firebreak)

Bearstone Stud

28,000

Barberini Bloodstock

C Dandy Man - Elusive Bonus (Elusive City)

Culworth Grounds Farm

24,000

Five Star Bloodstock

C Holy Roman Emperor - Cruise Dancer (Ishiguru)

John Troy

22,000

Tuite Racing

C Gregorian - Macarthurs Park (Equiano)

Culworth Grounds Farm

22,000

Gill Richardson Bloodstock

Figures Year

Sold

Agg (€)

Avg (€)

Mdn (€)

Top Price (€)

2018

1111

1,096,000

9,874

7,000

46,000

2017

85

787,500

9,265

7,000

47,000

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©CoadyPhotography

October Yearling Sale 23-26 OCTOBER

DEAUVILLE 625 selected yearlings including siblings to TEPPAL, THE WOW SIGNAL, MEKHTAAL, LOUIS D’OR, VOLTA, JIMMY TWO TIMES, WOOTTON, PHARRELL, ADDEYBB etc.

CONTACT +33 (0)2 31 81 81 00 - info@arqana.com www.arqana.com

CATALOGUE ONLINE

Did you Know?

The first 50 2 year old maidens in Ireland were won by 35 different owners racehorseownership.ie

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Sales Circuit ››

TALKING POINT • Among consignors dipping their toe into this sale for the first time was Genesis Green Stud, which offered a colt by Darley stallion Shooting To Win. The Australian-bred son of Northern Meteor had stood at Darley’s Kildangan Stud in 2016 for €7,000, but has remained down under since, which would not have helped yearling buyer awareness. Genesis Green’s Michael Swinburn said before the colt entered the ring, “it would have been nice if someone from Darley had been here to help promote the horse”, although it transpired the yearling did the talking on Darley’s behalf. He reaped a profitable £30,000 when selling to trainer David Barron, making the round trip from Newmarket worthwhile for Swinburn and his team.

Goffs Champions Sale

A Group 3-winning filly with a victory over a mile and three-quarters was always likely to appeal to Australian racehorse owners, and so it proved at this brief auction.

Cimeara headed the eight lots who appeared in the ring and her sale for €500,000 was a record for the event and another excellent result for the multi-talented Jim Bolger, the racehorse trainer, owner and breeder, who also stands Cimeara’s sire, Vocalised, at his Redmondstown Stud.

Sun Bloodstock, the racing and breeding organisation that competes on both sides of the globe, bought the three-year-old filly to continue racing down under. Her

Oct_170_SaleCircuit.indd 79

grandam was a half-sister to the dam of brilliant Goldikova, and she had won four of seven starts for Bolger, taking the Group 3 Stanerra Stakes and Listed Vinnie Roe Stakes – the last-named triumph in a deadheat with Sizzling – on her two most recent racecourse appearances.

Bolger’s training colleague, Michael O’Callaghan, is also a noted pinhooker, and he dominated the rest of the sale.

He bought Angelic Light for €56,000 at May’s Goresbridge breeze-up sale, trained her in his own colours to win a maiden, and sold her at this auction to Bill Dwan for €330,000, and he did similar with another two-year-old, Carbon Fibre, a €75,000 Goresbridge purchase. Two places,

including a well-beaten second to Aidan O’Brien’s smart colt Ten Sovereigns, brought him to the attention of Hong Kong trainer George Moore, whose €250,000 bid was decisive.

Angelic Light was well beaten in the following day’s Moyglare Stud Stakes, but the daughter of Dark Angel could yet repay her buyer, while O’Callaghan’s good afternoon continued when his draft of three was completed by Dark Pursuit, a €20,000 Tattersalls Ireland September Sale graduate who made €60,000.

Turnover of just over €1.3 million was on a par with last year, but the high-priced horses gave the average and median sums a thumping percentage increase.

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Sales Circuit ››

Goffs Champions Sale Those who sold Name/Breeding

Vendor

Price (€)

Buyer

Cimeara (Vocalised – Gold Mirage (Galileo))

Glebe House Stables

500,000

Sun Bloodstock

Angelic Light (Dark Angel - Delia Eria (Zamindar))

Michael O’Callaghan Racing

330,000

BAA Racing

Carbon Fibre (Helmet - Capote West (Capote))

Michael O’Callaghan Racing

250,000

George Moore Bloodstock

Shatharaat (Kodiac - Party Whip (Whipper))

Stragrane House Stables

120,000

BBA Ireland

Dark Pursuit (Pastoral Pursuits – Ogre (Tale Of The Cat))

Michael O’Callaghan Racing

60,000

BAA

Dawn Hoofer (Dawn Approach - Super Hoofer (Shamardal))

Glebe House Stables

52,000

Gerry Hogan Bloodstock

Five-year tale Year

Sold

Agg (€)

Avg (€)

Mdn (€)

Top Price (€)

2018

6

1,312,000

218,667

185,000

500,000

2017

9

1,275,000

141,667

120,000

290,000

2016

2

560,000

280,000

280,000

300,000

2015

5

925,000

185,000

150,000

450,000

2014

9

2,043,000

227,000

185,000

470,000

Keeneland September Books 1 & 2

By Nancy Sexton Fuelled by a barrage of high-power spending, Book 1 of the Keeneland September Sale scaled heights not seen since the pre-crash days of over a decade ago.

Demand for those horses with the attributes to justify buyers’ expectations, a rare commodity in most instances, was insatiable, as illustrated by the presence of 26 million-dollar yearlings (plus another in Book 2) – twice as many than in 2017 – that were spread between 14 different buyers.

As ever, Coolmore were a strong presence and indeed were successful in their pursuit of the eventual saletopper, a War Front colt out of Grade 1 winner Streaming who commanded $2.4 million out of the Hill ’n’ Dale Farm consignment.

However, in a throwback to some of the great bidding wars of the 1980s, they came off second best to Godolphin at $2.2m on an American Pharoah colt out of Kindle. It was Sheikh Mohammed’s first trip to the September Sale in almost ten years and his presence undoubtedly contributed to Godolphin ending the week as leading buyer with 22 yearlings bought for a total of $18.94m. In addition to the American Pharoah colt, they also included the War Front half-sister to Kentucky Derby winner Nyquist, who cost $1.6m, and a trio of yearlings by

Bob Baffert with Larry Best of OXO Equine, owner of the exciting juvenile Instagrand

Darley stallion Medaglia d’Oro bought for $1.6m, $1.3m and $1m apiece.

Add in the buying power of Sheikh Hamdan, whose Shadwell Estate Company paid $12.345m for 19 yearlings, and the Maktoum brothers accounted for 14% of the Book 1 aggregate.

Yet those established entities faced strong competition from a range of newer and ambitious players. Phoenix Thoroughbred, for instance, spent $6.95m on 13 horses including $2.1m

on a Medaglia d’Oro half-brother to Breeders’ Cup Distaff heroine Stopchargingmaria. Then there was Larry Best of OXO Equine, the owner of top American two-year-old Instagrand who came away with three milliondollar yearlings.

Their heavy participation gave the impression of an exceptionally strong upper market, as did the final figures.

Reformatted from last year’s elite oneday book to cover four sessions, Book 1 posted an aggregate of $216.813m

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Sales Circuit ››

sale. But like real estate, everything is local - some consignors had a great experience and some had an experience that was not so great. I was one of those in between.

“We are lucky enough to sell for some excessively rich people who were offered reasonable money for their yearings. But they’re also able to keep them to race, which some of them chose to do. And I’m tickled that they did as we need those folks to keep the business ticking.

“I think we’ll regroup for next year and figure out what really works in Book 1.”

‘Pharoahmania’ had been bubbling throughout the summer auction season and, as anticipated, demand for his first crop kicked into another gear at Keeneland.

The Triple Crown hero, who stands at Ashford Stud in Kentucky, where he has just been joined by this year’s Triple Crown winner Justify, accounted for three million-dollar yearlings led by the Kindle colt from the O’Callaghan family’s Woods Edge Farm. The second foal out of his minor stakes-winning dam, he provided an outstanding return on the $400,000 that he had cost as a foal at Keeneland last November.

OXO Equine also went to $1.4m for a colt out of Grade 2 winner Bsharpsonata, while MV Magnier signed at $1.2m on the half-sister to Coolmore stallion, Grade 1 winner Cupid.

Another colt, a half-brother to Aidan O’Brien’s Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf runner-up Giovanni Boldini, could also be in line for an European campaign

for 596 yearlings sold at an average of $363,780. If compared against last year’s format of one-day Book 1 and three-day Book 2, the average rose by 26%, while the median showed a remarkable leap of 50% to $300,000.

“A very strong stock market, combined with significant expenditure by the foreign contingent led by Sheikh Mohammmed and Sheikh Hamdan, both attending in person, drove the market forward,” said Michael Hernon, Director of Sales at Gainesway. The Kentucky farm sold $22.655m worth of stock to end Book 1 as the second leading buyer behind the perennially dominant Taylor Made Sales Agency, which turned over $31.854m.

Hernon added: “The Gainesway yearlings were very much in demand.

We were the book’s leading vendor by average, so it was an excellent sale for us.”

Even so, a book of nearly 1,000 yearlings was never going to be an elite affair and some of those horses that fell through the cracks ­— i.e. those that fell into the Books 2/3 category under the old system — duly struggled. Of the 989 yearlings in the book, 164 were withdrawn and another 299 failed to sell, resulting in a clearance rate of 60% from the original catalogue. No doubt a number of those that failed to live up to Book 1 expectations will gain a second chance at some of the later auctions this autumn.

“The numbers tell a big picture,” said Kerry Cauthen, managing partner of Four Star Sales, “and you have to say with that, it was a successful

after selling to David Redvers for $800,000.

Such strong figures contributed to a Book 1 average of $466,757 for 37 sold, a reception akin to that given to Secretariat when his first crop came under the hammer in 1976.

Among the other young stallions, particular mention must also go to Lea. The Claiborne Farm stallion had only two to sell in the ring but both gave an excellent account of themselves to hand their sire an average of $452,500 - off a fee of $12,500.

American Pharoah still has some way to go to match the commercial prowess of either War Front or Medaglia d’Oro, however.

Claiborne lynchpin War Front led all sires with an average of $782,500 for 18 sold, headed by both the dearest colt (the $2.4m sale-topping colt out of Streaming) and filly (the $1.6m half-sister to Nyquist). As for Medaglia d’Oro, he accounted for five milliondollar yearlings that contributed to an average of $625,645, marginally ahead of Tapit on $623,043.

As always there was a smattering of European action. Agent Oliver St Lawrence landed the only Frankel on offer, a half-sister to Grade 1 winner Magnificent Song at $500,000, while Hugo Merry went to $425,000 for an Empire Maker sister to the Grade 3-placed Melling. And although it was hard going for the breeze-up boys overall, a handful had a productive Book 1, notably Brendan Holland’s Grove Stud, which acquired an American Pharoah colt for $275,000.

Keeneland September Yearling Sale Top lots Sex/Breeding

Consignor

Price ($)

Buyer

b c War Front - Streaming (Smart Strike)

Hill ’n’ Dale Sales Agency

2,400,000

M V Magnier

ch c American Pharoah - Kindle (Indian Charlie)

Woods Edge Farm

2,200,000

Godolphin

b c Medaglia d’Oro - Exotic Bloom (Montbrook)

Taylor Made Sales Agency

2,100,000

Phoenix Thoroughbreds

b c Curlin - Molly Morgan (Ghostzapper)

Summerfield

1,800,000

OXO Equine LLC

b f War Front - Seeking Gabrielle (Forestry)

Hinkle Farms

1,750,000

Godolphin

b c Medaglia d’Oro - Dayatthespa (City Zip)

Gainesway, agent for Stonestreet

1,600,000

Godolphin

gr f Tapit - Miss Macy Sue (Trippi)

Taylor Made Sales Agency

1,400,000

Don Alberto Corporation

b c Uncle Mo - Secret (Street Cry)

Bride Harrison

1,400,000

Mike Ryan, agent

b c American Pharoah - Bsharpsonata (Pulpit)

Sierra Farm

1,400,000

OXO Equine LLC

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HOUGHTON BLOODSTOCK MAKING YOUR BLOODSTOCK DREAMS A REALITY

Taking orders now for Tattersalls December Mares & Foals Sale following our fantastic results in 2017.

Contact: Robin Sharp; T: 01638 563238 or 07850 661468 Malcolm Bryson; T: 07711 160856 E: info@houghtonbloodstock.co.uk • www.houghtonbloodstock.co.uk Fox Farm, Barnardiston Road, Hundon, Suffolk, CO10 8EL

D

o you want to purchase a relatively inexpensive Black Type horse and yet don’t want to pay commission on either purchase or sale?

If the horse is to be trained at Heath House, no commission at all is charged, so, why not contact SIR MARK PRESCOTT, Bt. and WILLIAM BUTLER, who this autumn will be at Keeneland (Sept), Fairyhouse (Ireland), Goffs (Ireland) and Newmarket (Books 1, 2 and 3)?

It is at these Sales that they have purchased the likes of SARAFAN $90,000 (at Keeneland), FAR CRY (Ire) 26,000, ROYAL DIAMOND (Ire) 70,000 (at Goffs), TIME WARP (Ire) 37,000 (at Fairyhouse), AMOUR DE NUIT 16,000, FOREIGN AFFAIRS 20,000, STRAW BEAR 25,000, BRAVE ACT 26,000, COMIC STRIP/ VIVA PATACA 26,000 and PALLASATOR 32,000 (Tattersalls).

Further, in recent years, at the autumn Sales, horses from the Heath House draft have topped both the December Sale and the Horses In Training Sale (Tattersalls) on several occasions.

For further information contact: sirmark@heathhousestables.com • william@heathhousestables.com Heath House, Newmarket, CB8 8DU 01638 662 117 • www.heathhousestables.com

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Caulfield Files

Bloodstock world views

Exceedingly good twice over A former champion sprinter in Australia and a champion sire in two hemispheres, Exceed And Excel is increasing his legacy through his sons and daughters at stud

Oct_170_CaulfieldFiles.indd 85

GEORHE SELWYN

W

hen the original owners of Danehill’s son out of the American-bred Patrona came to select a name for their youngster, they aimed high in naming him Exceed And Excel. Their choice has proved quite prophetic and Exceed And Excel has justified his name in several different roles, firstly as a champion sprinter and then as one of the most successful shuttle sires. And now, 18 years after his birth on September 5, 2000, he is beginning to make a name for himself both as a sire of sires and as a broodmare sire.

Before I go any further, I need to remind you that Exceed And Excel’s stallion career is a tale of two halves, in more ways than one. When he started to shuttle, he stood the 2005 season at €10,000 at Kildangan and the 2006 season at £7,500 at Dalham Hall. His fee was at a much lower level than in his native Australia, where he had enjoyed Group 1 success over six and seven furlongs. He spent his first four years in Australia at AUS$55,000, before his fee doubled to $110,000 in 2008 and 2009.

Even after those first two $110,000 seasons, Exceed And Excel was priced no higher than £12,000 when he shuttled to Dalham Hall in 2010 and 2011.

Fortunately, his merit has since become fully appreciated, with his fee rising steadily to €50,000 in both 2017 and 2018.

In these circumstances it would be fair to expect Exceed And Excel to start making his name as a sire of sires in Australia, rather than Europe. However, the opposite seems to be true, with his Australian-based sons having sired nothing better than Group 3 winners in the southern hemisphere by early September.

Although his Irish-bred son Excelebration – the result of a €10,000 nomination – hasn’t been a runaway success, his first crop contained Barney Roy, the Group 1 St James’s Palace Stakes winner who was runner-up in the 2,000 Guineas and the Eclipse Stakes, and his second is headed by the smart Irish sprinter Speak In Colours.

We have also seen the Australian-bred Helmet make a much bigger impact with his European crops than he has in his

Exceed And Excel, a stalwart of the Darley operation in Europe and Australia for 13 years

homeland. His son Thunder Snow has enjoyed Group 1 success at two, three and four, notably taking this year’s Dubai World Cup to boost his earnings to more than £6 million.

Arguably the most encouraging signs have come from a couple of inexpensive sons who were fast and precocious.

Bungle Inthejungle was rated no higher than 109 by Timeform after his victories in the Molecomb Stakes and the Cornwallis Stakes and he failed to win at the ages of three and four.

However, that hasn’t stopped him siring 20 winners from 47 first-crop runners by early September, including the Group 3 Molecomb Stakes winner Rumble Inthejungle and the Italian Listed winner Sopran Artemide.

We have also seen the shuttler Kuroshio, who covered a small book at £3,500 at Overbury Stud in 2015, represented by the Group 2 Vintage Stakes runner-up Dunkerron.

This suggests we will be hearing a good deal from other precocious stallion sons of Exceed And Excel, such as his Group 2 Coventry Stakes winner Buratino, his Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf winner Outstrip and his Group 3 Molecomb Stakes winner Cotai Glory, who enjoys the benefit of being based at Tally-Ho Stud.

Emerging broodmare sire

Even so, it is possible that Exceed And Excel’s most valuable contribution may be as a broodmare sire, judging by the fact that two of this year’s leading two-yearolds are out of his daughters. Both of them are trained by Aidan O’Brien, who sent out the Galileo colt Anthony Van Dyck to win the Group 3 Tyros Stakes over seven furlongs in June and the Group 2 Futurity Stakes over the same distance in August.

The day before the Futurity Stakes, O’Brien had unleashed No Nay Never’s son Ten Sovereigns in a six-furlong maiden race and the colt won so impressively that he started long odds on to win the Group 3 Round Tower Stakes, which he landed by nearly four lengths.

There is one difference between these two colts, though. Whereas Ten Sovereigns’ dam Seeking Solace was bred in Britain and raced in France, Anthony Van Dyck is out of the Australian-bred and raced Believe’N’Succeed, a Group 3 winner who was bought by Tom Magnier for a sale-topping AUS$1,100,000 at the 2014 Patinack Farm Dispersal conducted

by Magic Millions. She was carrying a filly

by Street Cry at the time.

Coincidentally, Believe’N’Succeed is a sister to the previously-mentioned Kuroshio, who had gained all three of his

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Caulfield Files year-old. Kuroshio numbered the colts’ and geldings’ division of the Group 3 Blue Prelude Stakes among his successes and Believe’N’Succeed had won the five-anda-half-furlong fillies’ division five years earlier. Believe’N’Succeed had already made a bright start to her broodmare career by the time of her sale, her first foal being the good racemare Bounding.

This daughter of Australian Horse of the Year Lonhro had won four Group races at up to seven furlongs in New Zealand and Australia, notably the Group 1 Railway Stakes over six furlongs as a three-year-old in New Zealand.

With Kuroshio, Believe’N’Succeed and Bounding all excelling over sprint distances, Believe’N’Succeed was an obvious addition to Coolmore’s policy of sending fast mares to the great Galileo.

Having foaled her Street Cry filly in Australia on October 24, 2014, she was sent to Ireland on February 18, 2015. She didn’t conceive until late in the breeding season, with Anthony Van Dyck being born on May 19, 2016. He was therefore just under 26 months old when he gained his first win, by eight lengths at Killarney in July, and his first Group win came only 11 days later. This provides strong grounds for thinking that this late foal will continue to improve over the next year or two.

It is natural to think of Believe’N’Succeed as Australian but her pedigree consists almost entirely of northern hemisphere bloodlines.

Her grandparents – Danehill, Patrona, Gone West and the dual Grade 1 winner November Snow - are all American-bred, as are all eight of her great-grandparents, including Danzig, Lomond, Mr Prospector and Storm Cat. Needless to say, Galileo has established highly fruitful partnerships with mares by Danehill and Storm Cat, which adds to Believe’N’Succeed’s suitability.

Galileo has only three foals of racing age out of Exceed And Excel mares.

All three are winners and they include the Group 2 French winner Mission Impassible. Although Mission Impassible is out of Exceed And Excel’s Nunthorpe winner Margot Did, she stays a mile well enough to have won the Prix de Sandringham. This suggests that Anthony Van Dyck is more of a 2,000 Guineas candidate than a Derby possible, but there can be no certainty about this in view of Galileo’s feat of siring the Irish Derby winner Cape Blanco from a useful five-furlong specialist.

Exceed And Excel ranks alongside Clodovil, Danehill Dancer, Dansili, Desert King, George Washington, Holy Roman

GEORGE SELWYN

›› wins at around five furlongs as a two-

Exceed And Excel’s grandson Rumble Inthejungle wins Goodwood’s Molecomb Stakes

Emperor, Mozart and Rock Of Gibraltar as one of nine Danehill stallions whose daughters have produced a total of 25 northern hemisphere Group winners to Galileo. That’s in addition to the 30 Group winners he has sired from daughters of Danehill. This reminds me that Believe’N’Succeed isn’t the first Australianraced mare to do well with Galileo. The Group 2-placed Hveger produced the indomitable Highland Reel and his Group 2-winning brother Idaho, while the Group 3 winner Milanova is dam of the Group 3 winner Pretty Perfect.

Moving on to Ten Sovereigns, his dam Seeking Solace wasn’t a typical daughter of Exceed And Excel, as she was a useful performer at around ten furlongs for Darley in France. With the Norfolk Stakes and Prix Morny winner No Nay Never as his sire, it would be unrealistic to expect this exciting colt to stay further than a mile. Indeed it is possible that the combination of No Nay Never and Exceed And Excel could make even a mile a bit of a test for Ten Sovereigns, but his style of racing suggests he will get the Guineas distance.

It is enlightening to look at Exceed And Excel’s record as a broodmare sire.

Although he is only 18 – comparatively young to be making a big impact as a broodmare sire – the fact that he has been operating in both hemispheres means that he already has more than 400 daughters with racing age offspring.

They have 28 black-type winners and, thanks to her daughter Bounding, Believe’N’Succeed is one of four daughters to have tasted Group 1 success in Australasia. The other Group 1 winners are Alizee, a daughter of Sepoy who has won two Group 1s over a mile; Astern, a Medaglia d’Oro colt who won the

Group 1 Golden Rose Stakes over seven furlongs as a three-year-old; and Prompt Response, a filly with 3x3 inbreeding to Danehill who won the Group 1 Tattersalls Tiara over a distance short of seven furlongs. Astern is now part of Darley’s Australian stallion team and attracted 170 mares in his first season in 2017.

Collectively this suggests that Exceed And Excel mares will impart much more speed than stamina. His European progeny are renowned for their speed, with an average winning distance of 6.7 furlongs, but he very occasionally gets good winners beyond a mile. A good example is the Winter Derby winner Nideeb and there is also the Americanraced Legendary, the international performer Folkswood and the continental Group 3 winner Tech Exceed. Folkswood is the most relevant to Anthony Van Dyck, as this smart ten-furlong horse is by Exceed And Excel out of a Galileo mare, At the time of writing we are still awaiting the first European Group 1 winner out of an Exceed And Excel mare, but they have hit the Group 2 target with the Superlative Stakes winner Birchwood in addition to Anthony Van Dyck and Mission Impassible. The Group 1 level is certainly attainable as Margot Did has a 2017 filly by Galileo; the very speedy Best Terms (dam of the talented Sea The Stars two-year-old Star Terms) has a 2017 Galileo colt and a 2018 Dark Angel colt; the Lowther Stakes winner Infamous Angel has two youngsters by Muhaarar; and the Group 3 Fred Darling Stakes winner Marenko produced a 2018 colt by Dark Angel before visiting Ulysses.

Then there’s the likes of the Group 2 Temple Stakes winner Priceless and the Group 2 Lowther Stakes winner Threading still to come.

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FOY-TOB October 2018:Layout 2

14/9/18

14:57

Page 1

By European Champion Sprinter and leading sire influence OASIS DREAM Out of European Champion 2YO ATTRACTION (with 8 Gr.1 wins between them)

His impressive looking first yearlings include strong, athletic two-year-old types.

Don’t miss them at Tattersalls October Sales.

726: colt x Some Diva

1171: colt x Jive

1274: colt x Margrets Gift 1583: colt x Hip Flask

1702: colt x Rememberance Day 1707: colt x Rosabee

1749: colt x Symphonic Dancer 1876: colt x Fantacise 1692: filly x Punchie

1815: filly x Bombalarina

1822: filly x Cadeaux Power 1834: filly x Citron

1920: filly x Island Rhapsody 1958: filly x Millinsky 1969: filly x Mortitia

1994: filly x Quiet Elegance

2030: filly x Amouage Royale

“Fountain of Youth was all speed which is not surprising considering how fast his parents were.

His form over 5 furlongs was excellent. Aidan O’Brien Tel: 07974 948755 or 01630 647197

G

www.bearstonestud.co.uk

Book your place on The Thoroughbred

B

ookings are now being accepted for the forthcoming Thoroughbred Club Careers Course which will take place at Tattersalls Park Paddocks, Newmarket on November 13-14.

The unique course, which is supported

by Weatherbys and The Racing Foundation, is aimed at anyone who is looking to explore the large range of career and training options available within the thoroughbred breeding industry, from stallion nominations to nutritionists, stud secretaries to rehabilitation and pretraining.

The two-day course will include a series of workshop-style talks from industry experts, which will focus on the speaker’s current role and background, and will also give an overview of the sector in which they are involved. The course will also include a number of external visits, giving delegates the chance to have a behindthe-scenes look at some of the industry’s leading establishments.

Day one will focus on the practical roles within the stud industry and its supporting services, with workshop style talks on a variety of roles including stud management, bloodstock agents, sales preparation, stallion nominations and

A drinks reception at the historic Jockey Club Rooms brings down the curtain on day one

equine veterinary nursing. The day will also include a visit to either Cheveley Park Stud or Newmarket Equine Hospital.

In the evening, delegates will be invited to the historic Jockey Club Rooms for a drinks reception, where they will get the chance to socialise with fellow delegates,

speakers and industry professionals.

The second day will cover the industry specific-higher education training options and the racing industry and its supporting services. Topics covered during this day include those on training racehorses, rehabilitation, bloodstock journalism,

Meet the Committee: Claudia McDougall How did you first get into racing?

My mum is a big National Hunt fan and has always had horses, so I spent most of my childhood either on a pony, in a horsebox or watching racing on the TV on a Saturday afternoon. I left school to do Equine Management at Writtle College, having been shipped to North Yorkshire by mum to work at Bryan Smart’s during the summer holidays, before moving on to a degree at Hartpury while working at a pre-training and breaking yard in the mornings.

After graduating, I got a job at Tweenhills before moving to Newmarket to work at Fittocks Stud, and used my holidays to gain valuable experience at the bloodstock sales. Having moved to work on the farms at Darley for a couple of years, I was very fortunate to gain the position I’m now in.

Could you tell us a little bit about your current role in the industry?

various tasks such as discussing mating plans with clients, pedigree research, contracting and showing our stallions to clients as well as other visitors.

We’re present at most of the European bloodstock sales, especially at this time of the year, but during the spring and summer we’re mainly on the road visiting clients to view our stallions’ stock as well as sometimes representing the company at the races.

Claudia McDougall: no week is ever the same

As part of the nominations team at Darley, my role consists of selling nominations to our 36 Europeanbased stallions, which encompasses

What do you enjoy most about your role?

The variety; no week is ever the same.

I can be researching pedigrees and compiling statistics in the morning and be out inspecting stock in the afternoon.

For someone that’s come from a handson role, the diversity suits me well.

Where do you see yourself in ten years’ time?

With a stronger knowledge of the

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www.thethoroughbredclub.co.uk •

Club Careers Course

@TTC_GB

Upcoming Events Friday, October 5 – Saturday, October 6 Autumn Racing Weekend and Ascot Beer Festival Ascot racecourse Members can enjoy half-price tickets to the Autumn Racing Weekend at Ascot. Purchases are available on the day from Ticket Office East following presentation of a valid TTC membership card.

Find out all about the racing and bloodstock industries across the two days of the course

auctioneering and bloodstock insurance.

Included as part of the day’s itinerary is a visit to Amy Murphy’s Southgate Stables or a tour of Godolphin’s state-of-the-art rehabilitation yard.

The course is free of charge for all TTC members and will be open to

industry through continual professional development and hopefully able to apply this to help more young people pursue a career in the bloodstock sector.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to work in the industry?

Get plenty of practical experience, work hard, absorb all the information you can and never be afraid to ask questions; most people in the industry are more than happy to help.

What is your favourite part of being on the TTC committee?

Discussing and helping implement new ideas and events to engage young people in the racing industry. One of our star events this year was a trip to Dalham Hall and Banstead Manor and it was fantastic to hear such positive feedback from the members that attended. Some are even considering a career change to the bloodstock industry!

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non-members at a cost of £50 for both days, and alternatively at £30 for one day. For further information, including a full programme and online booking form, please visit thethoroughbredclub. co.uk or email Melissa Parris on info@ thethoroughbredclub.co.uk.

The Careers Course is approaching in November – what do attendees have to look forward to at this year’s event?

We once again have some fantastic speakers lined up from a wide range of career paths as well as some exciting visits, so hopefully there is something for everyone. The evening reception is back at the Jockey Club Rooms in Newmarket and affords delegates a wonderful opportunity to see some spectacular pieces of horseracing history and art whilst networking with a number of industry professionals.

What is your favourite racing memory?

I have so many! I remember being stood down by the rails at Huntingdon on a particularly wet Peterborough Chase day aged 13. I was absolutely soaked but determined to see Best Mate in the flesh as he came onto the track. Unfortunately, he was beaten by the French horse Jair du Cochet, but it was still a great thrill to see him.

Saturday, October 6 The Kingdom of Bahrain Sun Chariot Stakes Newmarket racecourse Members have the chance of winning two tickets to the raceday.

To enter simply email info@ thethoroughbredclub.com.

Saturday, October 20 QIPCO British Champions Day Ascot racecourse Tuesday, November 13 Wednesday, November 14 The Thoroughbred Club Careers Course Tattersalls, Newmarket Tuesday, December 11 Thursday, December 13 TBA Stud Farming Course The British Racing School, Newmarket

New Members The Thoroughbred Club would like to warmly welcome the following new members and look forward to seeing them at our events throughout the year: Sally Evans, Worcestershire Antonia Lawrence, Buckinghamshire Imogen Lawrence, Shropshire Karen Corbett, Berkshire Elizabeth Johnson, Northumberland Bethany Fellows, Norfolk Nicole Groyer, Ireland Chloe Fletcher, Greater Manchester Alisha Meeder, Berkshire Fred Costanzo, Hampshire

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ROA Forum

The special section for ROA members

Ludlow is one of five finalists in the Owners’ Experience category

Owners’ Experience finalists announced

T

he Racecourse Association Showcase and Awards celebrate excellence and innovation in racecourse customer experience.

The annual event is taken around the country each year, and encompasses two elements: a daytime seminar and a gala evening awards.

The Showcase Seminar provides an opportunity for racecourses to share best practice in providing an exemplary customer experience. Speakers are invited from racing, sport and the wider leisure world to provide insight into cutting edge customer service in an open and aspirational atmosphere.

The Showcase Awards celebrate the best of the past year in all elements of racecourse operation. Racecourses submit entries across ten categories and an independent judging panel determines the winners of each award as well as the overall champion racecourse.

In conjunction with the ROA, the Owners’ Experience Award celebrates and rewards racecourses that have provided an exemplary experience for racehorse owners. As with all Showcase

Ownership Strategy Project The ROA-led, industry-funded Ownership Strategy Project is making good progress. Work is focusing on both enhancing the ownership experience for existing owners and attracting new owners to the sport that we love.

Awards, the core themes of excellence and innovation are at the fore, whilst with this particular award the most improved racecourses are given strong prominence in the nominations which are derived solely from ROA members.

The five finalists for 2018 are Ludlow, Newbury, Newmarket, Uttoxeter and Wetherby.

ROA Chief Executive Charlie Liverton commented: “The ROA are delighted to once again be involved in the Owners’ Experience Award. The nominees really reflect the ‘innovation and excellence’ ethos of the RCA’s Showcase and Awards and have been shortlisted thanks to the feedback from ROA members, which this year has been received in unprecedented levels.”

With regards to each of the finalists, Liverton added: “Newbury and Wetherby have each unveiled new owners’ and trainers’ facilities over the last 12 months, both of which have been warmly received by owners.

“Ludlow supplemented their strong prize-money levels with the introduction of complimentary food for those with a

The initiative takes a collaborative, cross-industry approach, and the dedicated team will be consulting with all relevant areas of the industry.

Surveys and interviews will take place that will build on the findings of the 2016 National Racehorse Ownership Survey and will ensure that the strategy develops with owner input and support at all levels of the ownership pyramid.

The core aim of the project is to

runner on the day, which has seen their feedback score massively improve.

“Whilst it was the new Runners Lounge at the Newmarket July Course that suitably impressed our members, Uttoxeter’s private viewing box with a complimentary drink went down very well.

“We wish the RCA a successful evening and look forward to seeing which course will be crowned the winner.”

Caroline Davies, Racecourse Services Director, commented: “It is always an exciting time of year announcing our first finalists for the Showcase and Awards.

I’m delighted to see the ROA members embrace our ethos of excellence and innovation when providing their feedback as to which racecourses have delivered a fantastic owners’ experience.”

The five nominated finalists will now enter a submission to convince the independent judging panel that their owners’ experience is deserving of this prestigious award. The winner will be announced on the evening of the Showcase Awards on Thursday, November 8 at Aintree.

enhance the involvement of owners and the number of horses in training and to provide support to the racing industry. We will deliver this aim by focusing on key areas as the Ownership Proposition is developed, and in turn supporting service providers to serve both existing and new owners.

Regular updates will be provided as the project develops.

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A great start to my career in racing BHA graduate Fergus Matthews on his placement with the ROA I’m in the final few weeks of my eightweek placement with the Racehorse Owners Association. It has been a very interesting and enjoyable time that has helped make me aware of the vital role the ROA plays within the industry and how owners are very much undervalued and need as much representation as possible. No owners means no racing!

Before commencing the graduate scheme, I had just completed my degree in Exploration and Resource Geology at Cardiff University.

I have always loved racing and horses from a very early age. Most of my earliest memories are on horseback, whether at pony club events or hacking along the lanes. On the farm we had point-to-pointers for several seasons; the early mornings and dedication in order to get a horse fit made me understand and appreciate the hard graft that goes into training racehorses.

I regularly attended point-topoints with our horses, coupled with regular trips to my local racecourses of Exeter, Taunton and Newton Abbot.

As I’ve grown older I’ve looked for any opportunity to go racing, including missing the occasional lecture to go racing at Chepstow in the pouring rain and hard-hitting winds.

The BHA Graduate Scheme is an illustrious course with many highprofile graduates. The scheme was designed to bridge the gap between graduates and racing, as well as opening up the racing industry to people with a love of the sport but potentially not the contacts. The scheme has given us all a great opportunity to get a foothold within the sport we love.

It began with a two-week induction course at the British Racing School in Newmarket, where we interacted with all the leading industry specialists. The two weeks consisted of lectures, guest speakers, trips to influential places within Newmarket and two days’ racing at the July meeting.

We looked at all the different

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Fergus Matthews (second from right) with fellow BHA scheme graduates

organisations involved within the sport and how they all work together in order to make the industry function efficiently. We also had some great visits, including going to Dalham Hall Stud, the Cheveley Park Stud open day (where the champagne was flowing) and also had the chance to walk around the famous Jockey Club Rooms – we enjoyed the many priceless pieces of art and wondered if the selling of Kempton is really necessary with countless Stubbs’ decorating their walls!

Great speakers entertained the graduates, notably Nick Luck and Ed Chamberlin, who were both brilliant and thought-provoking. My personal highlight was the morning spent with Sir Mark Prescott; listening and learning what goes into Sir Mark’s training methods was amazing and seeing his horses exercising on Warren Hill in the early morning sunshine was an experience that I will never forget.

I had the opportunity to hold a horse called Timoshenko, who has won its last five starts after our brief time together; I don’t want to take all the credit but I am waiting for a little thanks from Sir Mark! On the course I made some great friends who will be brilliant contacts in the years to come.

Since the induction fortnight in Newmarket, I have been working with the ROA in their offices in High

Holborn, London. I have primarily been working on the Ownership Strategy Project, where I have been undertaking research and benchmarking on how to grow ownership, through improving the ownership experience. I also attended the York Ebor meeting, where the ROA had a box for its members. The weather was warm and sunny and most of the day was spent on the balcony; this provided the perfect opportunity to talk to members about racing and the plight of owners, and of course the great benefits and fun it gives all of them.

After my time with the ROA I am undertaking placements at both Tweenhills Farm and Newsells Park Stud, which I am very much looking forward to. I can’t wait to work with great stallions such as Havana Gold, Nathaniel and their subsequent offspring. This placement will cover the period before, during and after the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale.

The placements will give me a chance to gain an understanding of the breeding world, which will be invaluable wherever I choose to work in future. I am excited for the opportunity to spend time assisting the stud manager and for the chance to learn how two of the busiest stud farms in the country operate during the sales season.

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ROA Forum

MY DAY AT THE RACES with Philip Bamford at York on August 22

A

lthough Philip Bamford didn’t come from a horsey family, he has been interested in horses most of his adult life, hunting in his younger days and then breeding and racing for over 30 years.

Dandy’s Farm in Lancashire is the small breeding operation of Philip and his wife Jane. It generally sells its produce as foals but does support their own families by having them in training; the enterprise is spiced up a little with a mare in France and South Africa, where they also have a horse in training, and a few pinhooks around the globe.

The Bamford family have been manufacturers in the animal feed industry for nearly 100 years and is now run in the third generation, guiding it more towards the pet food sector which specialises in bird food.

The brand name Bamfords Top Flight is widely promoted through racing, sponsoring horses in training with Sir Mark Prescott, David O’Meara, Roger Fell, Ann Duffield and Paul Nicholls.

Did you receive any welcome information as an owner in advance of the raceday?

York sends lots of information out and are active on Twitter and of course we are also warned by the trainer of the entry and declaration together with the pass system for booking tickets.

How was the experience of arrival at the racecourse and collecting your owners’ badges?

Parking was friendly and efficient, collecting badges was speedy and without delay and we were fully informed of what was available, all on a very busy day!

Did you use the owners’ and trainers’ facility on the day?

We used the owners’ and trainers’ facility on the day as it’s a great base to meet and chat with others and rest up.

What were your thoughts on the location, comfort and provision in the facility?

At York the owners’ and trainers’

Philip Bamford with apprentice jockey Conor McGovern at York

lounge is ideally situated and there is everything you need. It is very popular and gets busy but that makes for a good atmosphere; we were a group of four on the day.

How was the pre-parade ring/ paddock experience?

There is a viewing area in the preparade paddock and generally you meet lots of well-wishers for your runner and then with the greatest of ease you can slip into the main paddock area. Here you are the centre of attention and it feels extra special on such a big day. The media are all at one end and there is always a real buzz.

then replays are available whilst having a celebratory drink; not all courses treat the placed horses the same as a winner and it’s a typical York proactive initiative. Watchable ran his usual solid race and was only four lengths off the winner.

What was your overall lasting feeling of the day, based on your racecourse experience?

The people, the place, the racing...

York has everything that is good about the sport and has been doing it consistently well for a very long time.

It is a pleasure and a privilege to have runners there.

How did you find the facilities for owners’ viewing?

You can take your pick, with a number of big screens, and you can hear [the commentary] from all places, which is not always the case on other courses.

HOW IT RATED

Were you able to review a replay of your race easily on course?

The track show one or two replays immediately after the race and if you are lucky enough to win or be placed

Owners’ facilities

Entry Viewing Atmosphere Food Overall score

★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ 25

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October Jackpot races

Regional meetings

We have a whopping £12,000 to reward members with this month, with six ROA Owners Jackpot races around the country.

The Owners Jackpot bonus of £2,000 will be attached to each of the six races. If the winning horse is owned by an ROA member, the bonus will be paid in addition to prize-money. To qualify, horses must be owned by ROA members. In the case of a partnership, horses must be registered at least 51% in the ownership of ROA members.

For horses owned by clubs or syndicates, the majority of the club/syndicate managers will need to be members of the ROA in order to qualify for the bonus payment.

For more on the Owners Jackpot and details of future races see www.roa.co.uk/jackpot

This month’s ROA Owners Jackpot races

October 4 Warwick 2m Class 4 3yo+ 0-115 Mares’ Handicap Hurdle

Race No. 50776

October 9 Newcastle 5f Class 4 3yo+ 0-80 Handicap

67912

October 15 Windsor 1m2f Class 4 3yo+ 0-80 Handicap

48041

October 15 Musselburgh 1m4f Class 5 3yo+ 0-75 Handicap

48033

October 24 Fontwell 2m5f Class 4 4yo+ 0-115 Handicap Chase October 30 Chepstow 3m2f Class 4 Novices’ 0-120 Handicap Chase

Owners Jackpot+

The next ROA Owners Jackpot+ event will be held at Fontwell Park on October 24.

Each quarter, the ROA hosts an Owners Jackpot+ event which provides a facility for members to use during racing. Members and owners with a

51062 51182

runner on the day are invited to book a place in our complimentary private facility. As well as the £2,000 Owners Jackpot bonus on offer, owners of all qualified runners will receive £250 travel expenses. The winning yard will also receive £500 if the trainer is an ROA member.

RoR Heart Awards – celebrating your love for former racehorses!

Retraining of Racehorses is celebrating the love for former racehorses with the relaunch of its RoR Heart Awards. Run last in 2011, it had a fantastic response with some really amazing stories.

Voting was opened online last month to owners of registered RoR former racehorses, and these entries have whittled down to a shortlist of six nominees for the following Heart Award categories: RoR Biggest Heart Award: the best temperament. A horse that has shown unrivalled loyalty, affection and that is just great to know and love!

RoR Heart Throb Award: the best looking horse. A horse that is just a natural beauty.

RoR Heart Stopper Award: a

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horse that has overcome adversity, demonstrating great bravery and courage against all odds.

RoR Healthy Heart Award: the best all-rounder. A horse that has shown immense fitness and ability to adapt to many different equine disciplines and challenges.

Fans can vote on their favourites from the shortlist of nominees from September 28 at www.ror-events.org. uk. Full criteria can be found online at www.ror-events.org.uk.

The most popular three nominees from each category will go forward to the final to be judged by an RoR panel and the winner of each Heart Award will be revealed at the RoR end-ofseason party on November 17.

The ROA will be out meeting members this autumn, with visits to Wales, the Midlands and Scotland in the coming weeks.

The first stop will be Chepstow on October 30 for a regional meeting.

This is a chance for members who live in the vicinity to meet members of the ROA executive. The ROA team will update members on current issues and will be invited to ask questions and discuss matters of interest.

Lunch will be served before racing and members will be able to enjoy the use of the facility for the afternoon’s racing. This is likely to prove a popular venue and we would encourage members who are keen to attend to pre-book a place.

The final regional meeting of this year will be at Southwell on November 20. Members who live in the region are welcome to book places.

We will also be hosting an Ownership Matters evening in Edinburgh on November 1, between 6.30pm and 8.30pm. The evening will provide an opportunity for owners, and those considering ownership, to join the ROA team and fellow owners and trainers for an informal discussion and networking event. Drinks and canapes will be served.

Places for all events can be booked online at www.roa.co.uk/events

Diary dates and reminders OCTOBER 20 Private box with exclusive hospitality package for QIPCO British Champions Day at Ascot FULLY BOOKED OCTOBER 24 Owners Jackpot+ at Fontwell OCTOBER 30 ROA regional meeting at Chepstow NOVEMBER 1 Ownership Matters event in Edinburgh NOVEMBER 20 ROA regional meeting at Southwell See roa.co.uk/events for further details on all the above and to book

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ROA Forum

MAGICAL MOMENTS with ROA member Nick Rhodes

By ’eck he’s good!

Eeh Bah Gum and Jamie Gormley take the apprentice handicap at York’s Ebor meeting

T

here couldn’t have been a more fittingly-named horse to round off another smashing Ebor meeting at York than Eeh Bah Gum, and he was a popular winner too, starting a well-backed 7-1 chance for the £70,000 apprentices’ handicap, the final race of the four-day meeting.

There could have been no punter, however, quite as thrilled as the horse’s owner Nick Rhodes, who 54 years after first imagining what it would be like to own a winner at the Ebor meeting, was actually experiencing it.

“I was born in York and on August 20, 1964 my parents first took me to York races, and I picked my first winner in the Gimcrack, Double Jump,” he says.

“From that day on I dreamed of owning my own horse, hoping that one day too I would have a winning horse at that famous York festival. Fifty-four years later my dream became a reality.”

Rhodes, who is Divisional Chairman of New Homes Mortgage Helpline – “mortgage broking in the new-build industry” – is fairly new to ownership, his first experience of getting involved with racehorses coming five years ago when joining a Hambleton Racing syndicate with wife Lena.

“We had interests in five horses through Kevin Ryan and David O’Meara,” he says. “Travelling up to the yards reminded me how beautiful my birthplace was, and we subsequently moved to Helmsley.

“Hooked by the excitement of horseracing, we decided to go it on our own to have the full and ultimate experience.

“Syndicates are the ideal way of experiencing a taste of what

owning a racehorse entails, but we now wanted to experience the full journey by choosing our own horse, designing our own silks, choosing the trainer and, subsequently with the trainer, choosing the jockey, track, distance, etc.”

He continues: “One day when visiting friends at the Cliff Stud in Helmsley we were taken by a yearling in one of the paddocks and then the decision was made.

“I made my first purchase, a bay filly by Sleeping Indian out of Cadeau Speciale, which I named Yorkshire Pudding, a tribute to my Yorkshire roots.

“I was looking for a local trainer and, following a number of enquiries with local yards, I immediately hit it off with Tim Easterby; perhaps both being staunch Yorkshiremen had some bearing on my decision.”

After waiting so long to own a horse, Rhodes might have deserved a flying start, but he didn’t get one.

He explains: “Yorkshire Pudding went into training but regrettably was troubled by shin problems and other niggles that come with a two-year-old.

“The following season she eventually made it to the racetrack, being placed on a number of occasions, but continued to be plagued by niggling injuries which resulted in her being turned out in August to help her recover.”

One horse costs plenty, but an owner often feels the need to have their eggs in at least two baskets, and Rhodes admits: “It was then I made the decision to look for another horse, but a colt this time, and I picked up a bay colt by Dandy Man out of Moonline Dancer at the Goresbridge Breeze-Up Sales.

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“Sticking with the strong Yorkshire theme, I decided to name this little fella Eeh Bah Gum – which translated actually means ‘Oh My God’.”

So was this a turning point?

“Sadly, the bad luck continued,” says Rhodes. “As a twoyear-old Eeh Bah Gum was constantly troubled with viruses and infections affecting his fitness, so I decided to turn him out at the Cliff Stud to allow him to recover.

“Whilst there he was gelded and then in February I sent him to Tim Easterby to keep Yorkshire Pudding company.”

Rhodes is always happy to keep Easterby company, and particularly enjoys the behind-the-scenes aspects of being an owner, and seeing his horses at the yard and on the gallops.

“Tim is such a down to earth honest trainer and with him living only 15 minutes away we were made to feel welcome any time of the day or week,” he says.

“I wanted to learn all I could about training horses and couldn’t have asked for anyone better as a tutor. Nothing is too much trouble for Tim, the whole family is a wonderful group.”

Yorkshire Pudding continues, however, to provide a test of skill and patience, of both trainer and owner, as Rhodes adds: “Yorkshire Pudding is a prime example of frustrations, following the further setback of her fracturing her pelvis in her first race of this season. She’s recovered and hopefully will be fit to race again this autumn.”

Eeh Bah Gum, meanwhile, eventually found his feet, running three times as a juvenile without troubling the judge, but he has thrived at three, and his Ebor meeting triumph was his fifth since May, including four on the bounce. Look North, the local BBC news service, has sat up and taken notice, with reporter Mark Ansell doing a piece on the horse.

“Eeh Bah Gum’s racing record is there for all to see as he progressed through the handicaps, leading to our most memorable day at the Ebor meeting,” says his proud owner.

“He just loves the ground hard and fast, but he does not like it at all when the going gets softer, as demonstrated by his run at York on July 27 [when he started favourite but finished fifth].”

The Ebor meeting win was bound to be among them but, asked for his magical moments, Rhodes replies: “Visiting the stud during the winter months, spending time with our horses, and regular visits to the yard, being up close and personal with our pride and joys Eeh Bah Gum and Yorkshire Pudding.

“And, of course, being there to see our boy win his first races, and then the icing on the cake for him to win on my home track of York at the Ebor meeting.”

Rhodes adds: “The best moments for us have been meeting the people involved in racing.

“We’ve set up Facebook pages for both horses, run by Lena, and the following they both have with friends made across the world has been truly humbling and amazing.

“Owning racehorses isn’t a business for us, it’s a true love. We had an offer from Hong Kong after Eeh Bah Gum won at Redcar in June but turned it down. The horses mean so much to us. We’re on a journey, living the dream, and enjoying our friends being on it with us.

“Travelling the length and breadth of the country to see Eeh Bah Gum run has been great fun. Watch the replay of his win at York and you will see the crowd jumping with delight as he flies past the winning post. He was backed from 14-1 to 7-1.

“He is without doubt the ‘Pride of Yorkshire’, and I have made friends for life thanks to Pud and Gum.”

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Save the date for the ROA Awards

Enable, 2017 Horse of the Year, returned to action with a superb win at Kempton

The ROA Horseracing Awards pays homage to the outstanding equine performers of the year. The glittering ceremony will be held on Thursday, December 6 at the InterContinental Hotel.

The black-tie evening, which is always a sell-out, includes a champagne reception, three-course dinner and the awards ceremony itself.

There will also be a silent auction, with funds raised going to this year’s charity, Racing Welfare. The evening finishes with dancing to the ever popular Chance band.

Each category is voted for by ROA members and voting details will be sent out next month.

Enable scooped the coveted Horse of the Year title in 2017 – who will follow in her illustrious hoofprints this year? Tickets for the evening are £195 per person or £1,800 for a table of ten.

Owners are invited to showcase their racing colours in the awards brochure for a minimum donation of £100 (plus VAT) per set.

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ROA Forum

TRACK TALK

Latest news from the UK’s racecourses historically low levels there’s no better time to invest in a major capital project.”

PLUMPTON FACILITIES

The plan for the new grandstand at Beverley, due for completion in 2021

BEVERLEY PLANS NEW £4.8M GRANDSTAND Beverley has revealed plans for a new grandstand – the largest single investment in the history of the racecourse.

An application has been submitted to East Riding of Yorkshire Council for full planning permission for a £4.8m development, which will provide an enhanced customer experience and additional hospitality opportunities for racegoers.

The new grandstand will provide improved viewing for spectators, both inside and outside the building; expanded and enhanced catering and hospitality facilities; and fit-for-purpose kitchens, toilets and other amenities. The grandstand would replace the existing 1960s main stand, which has rudimentary facilities and no disabled access beyond the ground floor.

The ground floor will feature a new entrance, a large open bar and new gaming area, while the first floor will feature a high-quality bistro, for casual dining overlooking the course. The top floor will provide an extension for the racecourse’s exclusive Premier Enclosure, with semi al fresco dining on a balcony offering unrivalled views of the scenic course. On non-racedays the grandstand will offer excellent facilities for meetings, conferences, exhibitions,

dinners and other events.

The grandstand project will be managed to ensure there is minimal disruption to racing and racegoers.

If planning permission is granted, demolition of the existing grandstand would begin in September 2019, following the end of next year’s racing season. Foundations and the concrete base for the new grandstand would be put in place during the off season and a new temporary ‘village’ with viewing areas, bars and toilets established for the 2020 season. Construction of the new grandstand would then begin in September 2020, with completion scheduled for April 2021.

Sally Iggulden, Beverley’s Chief Executive, said: “We’ve remodelled the existing grandstand over the years but it simply cannot provide what we want and need. Instead of making the best of an old building that is no longer fit for purpose, we have decided to make this investment in a new stand that will see us into the future and enable us to retain Beverley’s position as a highly-respected racecourse and venue.

“We are growing our attendances each year and we continue to be an industry innovator. To continue to do that, and compete in the leisure market, we need modern facilities that give customers what they expect from a day at the races. With interest rates at

Plumpton unveiled improvements to its owners’ and trainers’ facility at its opening fixture of the new jumps season on September 23, underlining a commitment to an enhanced raceday experience for owners.

The racecourse’s General Manager, Dan Thompson, commented: ‘We are constantly trying to recognise the importance of our owners and trainers, which we showed last season with prizemoney increases, including the creation of the £50,000 Sussex Champion Chase as a new race at our Easter Festival.

“This year we are aiming to improve the experience on course. We have more than doubled the space available for connections with runners on the day alongside completely re-vamping the O&T facility with new TV screens, new furniture, some history, winners’ boards and what is hopefully just a much more enjoyable and spacious experience with an improved food offering.”

Plumpton will host its popular Moorcroft Racehorse Welfare Centre Charity Raceday on Monday, October 22.

The lunch and auction will be held in the Plumpton Marquee overlooking the final fence. Mike Cattermole will auctioneer a number of ‘money can’t buy’ lots, and there will also be a silent auction. Owners can support the event by featuring their colours in the racecard or by sponsoring a pony in the Shetland pony race which precedes racing.

Tickets for the day include a champagne reception, three-course lunch, half-bottle of wine, afternoon tea, entrance badge, racecard and car parking, and are priced at £95 per person. They are on sale until October 8. Tables of ten and 12 are available and can be booked by Allison Blake allison@plumptonracecourse.co.uk or 01273 890383.

HUNTINGDON UPGRADES

Huntingdon will unveil a brand new owners’ and trainers’ facility when the new season opens on October 4.

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line has been retained, giving owners and trainers exclusive access.

General Manager Huw Williams said: “We’ve been conscious of the fact that we have a lack of space here for owners and trainers and this summer, as part of a wider refurbishment project, we’ve moved into the old Kingwell Restaurant, giving us two to three times more space than previously. It’s a great room where owners will really be able to relax and enjoy their day.”

For those wanting a fine-dining experience, the new Chasers Restaurant will offer the best seats in the house with a full view of the racecourse.

Wincanton has also introduced padded hurdles for the new season.

Huntingdon’s new facility for owners and trainers will open on October 4

The former paddock-side suite for owners has been moved to a new location on the first floor of the Goodliss Stand, offering views of the racecourse and paddock. As well as improved viewing, the facility offers increased seating capacity, from 40 to 120, a new kitchen, dedicated food service point and a large bar. There are additional TV screens and roving betting operators.

The area is fully accessible with toilet facilities and a lift, and doors which open directly out onto a disabled viewing area.

There are also grandstand viewing steps.

A voucher system will be in operation to provide owners with an enhanced complimentary food offering.

This will typically offer a choice of sandwiches and hot food. Owners will be offered a complimentary welcome drink upon arrival.

Future development at the course include plans for a new stable yard and car park in 2020, and follows improvements to the parade ring made in 2017.

provide owners with a runner a choice of three different options which will rotate throughout the season. In addition, there will be a dedicated owners’ and trainers’ liaison point of contact.

WINCANTON’S NEW SUITE

Owners and trainers heading to Wincanton this autumn will find a fabulous new facility that oozes class and comfort. The track’s major refurbishment project this summer means that the dedicated space available to them has more than doubled in size.

The former Kingwell Restaurant has been transformed into a stunning new hospitality suite. Overlooking the paddock, it has a separate bar, eating and lounge areas and is fully integrated with kitchen and toilets.

The space offers fabulous comfort with a food offering that reflects the increasing demand for local sourcing.

The viewing area overlooking the finish

ROA FACILITY AT CHELTENHAM

Members should note that the ROA Suite that had been in operation at Cheltenham over the past two years will not be available to members this season.

Rest assured we will continue to operate the ever popular ROA marquee over the four days of Cheltenham’s Festival in March. Details will be circulated to members as soon as they are available. Confirmed details of all upcoming ROA member events can be found at www.roa.co.uk/events

KEMPTON WINTER FESTIVAL

Members who use the ROA/JCR admission scheme are asked to note that the fixture at Kempton Park on December 26 is not a participating fixture. The second day of Kempton’s Winter Festival, December 27, is included. This is a correction to a list of participating fixtures previously published.

EXETER ENHANCEMENTS

We are delighted to report that owners visiting Exeter will see a number of enhancements to their raceday experience from the start of the new season on October 11.

The owners’ and trainers’ bar has been expanded, providing more indoor space, additional seating and improved lighting. The new facility is now across two levels, providing exclusive owner viewing of the paddock and racecourse.

Within the facility the bar has been extended and a new counter installed to separate the food and drink areas. The complimentary food offering is also being enhanced and expanded, to

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Wincanton’s track refurbishment has enabled a larger facility for owners and trainers

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ROA Forum Figures for period September 1, 2017 to August 31, 2018

Flat Racecourse League Table Ptn Racecourse

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36

Ascot York Goodwood Epsom Downs Newmarket Chester Sandown Park Newbury Doncaster Haydock Park Chelmsford City Pontefract Musselburgh Salisbury Wetherby Ripon Hamilton Park Carlisle Newcastle Ayr Lingfield Park Leicester Kempton Park Redcar Windsor Nottingham Beverley Thirsk Catterick Bridge Ffos Las Yarmouth Bath Wolverhampton Chepstow Brighton Southwell Total

Ownership

Avg racecourse spend per fixture (£)

I I I JCR JCR I JCR I ARC JCR I I I I I I I JCR ARC I ARC I JCR I ARC JCR I I I ARC ARC ARC ARC ARC ARC ARC

471,868 245,681 209,483 188,051 130,290 86,927 85,339 84,877 78,704 77,637 50,017 45,756 45,699 44,982 44,862 41,985 41,915 38,293 37,885 37,276 36,958 35,919 34,947 34,694 34,322 34,299 33,958 33,306 31,716 30,465 29,879 24,131 23,430 23,287 23,096 21,812 62,624

Avg HBLB spend per fixture (£)

Avg owner spend per fixture (£)

Avg prizemoney per fixture (£)

Total no. of fixtures

Total prize-money (£)

Avg racecourse spend per fixture 2016-17 (£)

128,702 273,469 94,574 114,477 84,513 77,244 69,544 86,842 70,504 70,816 45,350 13,519 48,909 38,512 55,342 37,222 48,363 35,321 41,290 18,737 19,952 6,061 30,380 3,723 21,563 5,640 26,349 5,741 13,600 7,438 20,526 4,815 23,445 4,368 18,314 6,223 21,961 5,856 20,973 5,584 25,571 4,862 24,213 6,071 21,915 5,577 20,013 15,409 19,627 5,624 21,431 6,595 22,132 4,096 21,805 6,482 19,466 2,828 13,716 4,579 19,663 5,237 19,641 3,751 20,144 3,727 12,671 3,550 15,240 3,095 16,033 2,623 31,580 20,691

876,540 459,177 374,977 344,437 273,533 147,096 174,135 182,052 163,492 140,864 77,053 81,126 73,276 77,946 65,900 67,326 69,728 62,830 65,703 63,834 67,392 66,620 62,699 70,116 59,573 62,325 60,242 62,211 54,010 48,760 55,539 47,623 47,332 39,508 41,431 40,468 115,629

18 18 19 11 39 15 16 18 24 23 67 15 16 16 4 18 17 12 47 16 73 18 58 16 27 22 18 17 16 5 23 15 80 18 22 37 894

15,777,712 8,265,181 7,124,560 3,788,810 10,667,773 2,206,442 2,786,160 3,276,942 3,923,812 3,169,450 5,162,530 1,216,893 1,172,423 1,247,143 263,600 1,211,870 1,185,368 753,960 3,088,040 1,021,339 4,919,599 1,199,169 3,636,534 1,121,850 1,608,467 1,371,145 1,084,357 1,057,587 864,160 243,800 1,277,405 714,344 3,786,587 711,146 911,483 1,497,300 103,314,936

430,224 227,559 200,431 155,121 119,300 84,082 67,057 80,112 79,757 57,168 42,448 38,086 53,757 38,789 32,248 38,752 38,120 29,168 35,197 45,425 33,637 31,532 27,202 24,657 27,209 27,521 28,008 30,796 23,122 25,665 22,929 32,745 20,883 22,505 19,983 12,867 55,804

s s s s s s s s t s s s t s s s s s s t s s s s s s s s s s s t s s s s s

Up/ down

Jumps Racecourse League Table Ptn Racecourse

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41

Aintree Cheltenham Ascot Sandown Park Haydock Park Newbury Kempton Park Ayr Kelso Doncaster Newton Abbot Newcastle Perth Cartmel Fakenham Carlisle Stratford-On-Avon Wincanton Exeter Warwick Ludlow Chepstow Market Rasen Hereford Wetherby Taunton Leicester Musselburgh Hexham Uttoxeter Ffos Las Huntingdon Catterick Bridge Towcester Worcester Fontwell Park Bangor-On-Dee Lingfield Park Plumpton Sedgefield Southwell Total

Ownership

Avg racecourse spend per fixture (£)

Avg HBLB spend per fixture (£)

Avg owner spend per fixture (£)

Avg prizemoney per fixture (£)

Total no. of fixtures

Total prize-money (£)

Avg racecourse spend per fixture 2016-17 (£)

Up/ down

JCR JCR I JCR JCR I JCR I I ARC I ARC I I I JCR I JCR JCR JCR I ARC JCR ARC I I I I I ARC ARC JCR I I ARC ARC I ARC I ARC ARC

285,889 267,292 156,372 112,263 102,856 85,960 54,366 43,928 41,974 37,957 36,616 36,434 35,221 34,420 33,455 33,352 33,149 32,831 31,930 31,880 31,473 31,415 30,410 30,372 30,264 28,819 28,060 27,636 26,596 26,504 26,095 26,062 24,089 23,909 23,786 22,023 21,543 21,324 20,415 18,849 18,355 45,736

141,717 119,630 88,351 90,699 85,030 64,402 59,022 35,802 23,303 42,455 28,031 34,354 31,257 29,111 21,092 30,673 22,589 34,611 35,619 31,682 30,548 36,970 30,371 23,651 31,760 28,529 31,287 32,235 16,694 26,957 27,246 24,144 23,712 17,748 22,305 19,716 18,097 27,812 24,457 19,973 20,413 35,741

79,265 68,782 19,362 17,813 16,227 21,492 9,230 11,606 5,020 7,945 57 5,710 4,126 5,802 0 5,502 4,502 5,821 6,487 6,358 5,349 8,578 5,482 5,988 5,410 6,064 4,897 4,364 3,296 6,261 5,371 5,281 2,796 3,971 4,413 3,464 4,018 4,538 3,953 3,292 3,985 8,875

507,683 456,328 265,335 226,887 212,937 173,216 122,975 95,072 73,026 88,885 64,704 77,053 70,604 69,333 54,547 72,231 60,240 73,263 74,037 70,201 67,370 76,964 66,489 60,011 67,435 64,143 64,244 64,235 46,586 59,722 58,712 57,456 50,596 45,628 50,505 45,203 43,808 53,675 48,825 42,645 42,753 91,005

8 16 8 9 9 9 14 14 11 9 18 9 15 9 12 11 15 16 14 16 16 14 21 7 14 13 8 10 14 24 11 16 9 12 22 22 15 6 14 16 20 546

4,061,466 7,301,255 2,122,682 2,041,983 1,809,968 1,558,946 1,721,653 1,331,001 803,281 799,967 1,164,675 693,478 1,059,065 624,000 654,570 794,537 903,601 1,172,201 1,036,522 1,123,212 1,077,924 1,077,491 1,396,273 420,079 944,093 833,858 513,952 642,350 652,198 1,433,328 645,836 919,293 455,366 547,541 1,111,106 994,461 657,123 322,047 683,547 682,323 855,068 49,643,320

265,466 243,494 139,465 100,415 106,933 29,163 51,678 38,475 34,174 37,803 27,779 27,276 54,522 30,773 23,735 20,103 29,668 27,778 21,769 24,393 51,678 34,619 18,015 24,651 26,604 25,937 24,074 19,792 20,498 24,758 23,181 24,074 16,963 17,286 20,011 18,986 22,736 34,174 17,477 18,081 18,066 39,318

s s s s t s s s s s s s t s s s s s s s t t s s s s s s s s s s s s s s t t s s s s

EXPLANATION The tables set out the average prize-money at each fixture staged by a racecourse over the last 12 months. They show how this is made up of the three sources of prize-money: 1. Racecourses’ contribution 2. Levy Board (HBLB) 3. Owners The tables also confirm the number of fixtures staged and the total amount of prize-money paid out by each racecourse throughout this period.

The racecourses are ordered by the average amount of their own contribution to prizemoney at each fixture.

This contribution originates from various sources including media rights, admission revenues and racecourse sponsors.

If a racecourse has increased its average contribution at each fixture compared with the previous 12 months, it receives a green ‘up’ arrow. If its average contribution has fallen, however, it receives a red ‘down’ arrow.

As these tables are based on the prizemoney paid out by each racecourse, the abandonment of a major fixture could distort a racecourse’s performance.

OWNERSHIP KEY JCR Jockey Club Racecourses ARC Arena Racing Company I

Independently owned racecourse

Gold Standard

Award

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TBA Forum

The special section for TBA members

Joan Tyner reflects on her placement with the TBA

Joan Tyner (centre, red dress) with her fellow graduates from the BHA Scheme enjoy Newmarket’s July Course

I have recently graduated from Maynooth University, Co. Kildare with a BBS International Business & Management Degree. While I was studying at Maynooth I had the opportunity to study abroad for a year at the University of Kentucky and complete a work placement at

Dromoland Farm. I applied for the BHA Graduate Development Programme as I felt it would be a great way to learn more about the entire British Racing Industry and network with like-minded people. After getting through the interview stage I was selected along with 21 other graduates to carry out the

programme.

The programme consists of a comprehensive two-week residential course held at The British Racing School (BRS) in Newmarket at the start of July, which includes a wide range of speakers, field trips, personal development and networking opportunities. The two-

Do you know someone interested in attending the Thoroughbred Club Careers Course?

The Thoroughbred Club Careers Course will once again take place on November 13 and 14 at Tattersalls Park Paddocks, Newmarket. The unique course, which is supported by Weatherbys and The Racing Foundation, is aimed at anyone

The Careers Course is at Tattersalls on November 13-14

under the age of 35 who is looking to explore the large range of career and training options available within the thoroughbred breeding industry from equine nutritionists to stud secretaries to rehabilitation and pre-training.

The two-day course will include a series of workshop style talks from industry experts, which will focus on the speaker’s current role and background, and will also give an overview of the sector in which they are involved. The course will also include a number of external visits, giving delegates the chance to have a behind-the-scenes look at some of the industry’s leading establishments.

The course is free of charge for all members of The Thoroughbred Club and will be open to non-members at a cost of £50 for both days, and alternatively at £30 for one day. For further information, including a full programme and online booking form, please visit thethoroughbredclub.co.uk or email Melissa Parris on info@thethoroughbredclub.co.uk.

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JOHN HOY

week course shows how the various aspects of the sport work together and gives an insight into many of the organisations and their functions within the industry. Each graduate then went on to their placement of eight weeks at different establishments throughout the industry. My placement was at The Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (TBA).

While I was at the TBA, I was involved in a number of different projects and events the TBA were involved in. I had the chance to help out with the running of this year’s TBA National Hunt ‘Stars of Tomorrow’ Foal Show, at Bangor-on-Dee racecourse.

The show, which was supported by Goffs UK, British EBF, Saracen Horse Feeds and Weatherbys GSB, provided a unique opportunity for breeders to showcase their youngstock in front of a panel of industry judges.

I assisted with educational courses such as the South-West Regional Day, which was held at Wiltshire College. I also helped out at Breeders’ Seminar where the TBA teamed up with the International Symposium on Equine Reproduction (ISER) to offer members a one-day seminar about all aspects of modern broodmare and stallion management.

I also had the chance to work on a number of projects, one of which was creating a Guide to Broodmare Ownership. My role was to research and gather content that could potentially be used in the guide. This guide has not been completed yet. However, when it is finished it will be a great asset to breeders.

I was very lucky to have been working with such a dedicated team at The TBA and have witnessed first-hand the efforts that the TBA staff go to for breeders within the industry. I would like to thank all of the team for being so welcoming, sharing their knowledge and expertise with me on different areas of the breeding industry, incentive schemes and educational courses run by the TBA and a special thank you to Caroline Turnbull, with whom I worked closely and who looked after me while on my placement.

If you are considering a career within the thoroughbred industry, I’d recommend applying for the BHA Graduate Programme. It’s a great opportunity to explore many different aspects of the industry. You will meet so many amazing people and make friends for life. It’s an opportunity not to be missed.

Amourice bounds clear under Ray Dawson to collect the prize, and below, members of the Essex Racing Club enjoy her victory at Newmarket

Amourice takes TBA #thisfillycan Fillies’ Handicap at Newmarket The first of three TBA #thisfillycan Fillies’ Handicaps took place at Newmarket on Friday August 24. The race, which was restricted to fillies rated under 105 and run over a distance of 1m 6f, was won by the Jane Chapple-Hyam trained Amourice. The filly, partnered by Ray Dawson, chased the leaders until she was ridden clear of the field in the last two furlongs, crossing the line three and a half lengths clear of Elasia. Amourice, who is a daughter of Authorized, has proved to be a model of consistency, being placed in nine of her eleven starts and winning over £40,000 in prize-money.

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TBA Forum

TBA Stud Farming Course Bookings are now being accepted for this year’s TBA Stud Farming Course, which will take place from December 11-13 at the British Racing School, Newmarket.

The course will give breeders and stud staff the opportunity to refresh and expand their knowledge on a range of core stud management topics from leading industry experts.

Over the three days, the course will cover a range of topics which have been selected to provide a comprehensive overview of general stud management; starting from the very beginning in the selection of mating plans and understanding genetics, to care of the broodmare and foal from conception to the yearling stage, the management of barren and maiden mares, and the managing of stallions and teasers.

It also deals with topics of general stud practice including equine nutrition, paddock management, parasite control, disease prevention and the bio-security measures which all studs should put in place. The course will also include a number of external visits to leading industry establishments including the Newmarket Equine Hospital and Darley’s Dalham Hall Stud.

Delegates are also invited to a course dinner, held at the Bedford Lodge Hotel on the first evening, which will provide the opportunity to talk to fellow delegates, speakers and industry professionals.

Attendees will learn a range of core stud management topics

External visits over the two days will include a trip to the Newmarket Equine Hospital

The course fee which includes dinner on the first night, lunch and refreshments for all three dates and the external visits is £395 for members or £495 for non-members, with discounts available for studs sending three or more delegates.

Bookings for the course can be made through the event page on the TBA website or alternatively a booking form will be mailed out to members.

For further information please contact melissa.parris@thetba.co.uk or call 01638 661321.

Lampos wins the RoR TBA Retrained Racehorse Final

Lampos and Jolene Midgley win the RoR/ TBA Retrained Racehorse Challenge Series final

The final of the RoR/TBA Retrained Racehorse Challenge Series took place at the RoR Goffs UK National Championships on Sunday August 26 and was won by Lampos and Jolene Midgley.

The finalists competed the three-phase class of show jumping, ridden showing and in-hand showing and were awarded points for each phase of the class with the final decision made by judges The Hon Mrs Lucinda Cavendish and Mr David Ingle.

The winner was ridden by his owner, Jolene Midgley and the pair previously won the RoR TBA Retrained Racehorse Challenge qualifier at the Northern Racing College Show at Doncaster. The 18-year-old gelding, who is by Southern Halo, was retired from racing in 2005 after a career of 40 races, which included races on the turf, all weather and over hurdles.

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Godolphin Stud & Stable Staff Awards

Wednesday, October 17 TBA #thisfillycan Fillies’ Handicap Nottingham Racecourse

Nominations are now open for the 2019 Godolphin Stud and Stable Staff Awards.

The prestigious awards, which are now in their 15th year, celebrate and reward the outstanding skills, commitment and contribution of stud and stable staff from across the country.

Owners, trainers, breeders, colleagues, yard and stud managers are welcome to nominate staff or colleagues for the Awards.

Thursday, October 11 EBF/TBA Mares’ Novice Chase Series Qualifier Worcester Racecourse Friday, November 9 EBF/TBA Mares’ Novice Chase Series Qualifier Fontwell Racecourse

The award categories are: David Nicholson Newcomer Award 2018 winner: Adrian Stewart, David Loughnane Open to stud and stable staff who have been employed less than three years within the industry and have progressed their skills and knowledge to become an integral part of the team Leadership Award 2018 winner: Jessica McLernon, Richard Fahey Open to stud and stable staff carrying out a leadership or supervisory role who have displayed leadership qualities, a desire to succeed and strong mentoring skills.

Stud Staff Award 2018 winner: Sarah Taylor, Mickley Stud Open to all stud employees who have shown expertise, dedication and reliability, excellent horsemanship and ability to work in a team.

Rider/Groom Award 2018 winner: Petra Sebestikova, Luca Cumani Open to all stable staff who have shown talent for horsemanship, consistency and

reliability in and out of the saddle and have achieved something outstanding in the 2017 season.

Dedication to Racing Award 2018 winner: William Reddy, Eve JohnsonHoughton For all stud and stable staff who have served a minimum of 15 years in the industry, are an integral part of the team and offer a wealth of experience and knowledge, and a love of the job.

Rory MacDonald Community Award 2018 winner: John and Jackie Porter, ex Injured Jockeys’ Fund For any individual connected directly or indirectly with racing, who has demonstrated an outstanding contribution to the racing industry for the greater good of the sport.

It is very simple to nominate someone for the Awards, and there is still plenty of time to do so – nominations will close at 5pm on Tuesday, November 20. For further information and to nominate online or download a nomination form, visit studandstablestaffawards.co.uk

August 15, Newton Abbot Racecourse THE ACTUATE MARKETING MARES’ INTERMEDIATE OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 5) Winner: Nanny Pat’s Owned by Galloping On The South Downs Partnership Bonus Value: £5,000

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Tuesday, November 13Wednesday, November 14 The Thoroughbred Club Careers Course Tattersalls, Newmarket Saturday, November 17 EBF/TBA Mares’ Novice Chase Series Qualifier Uttoxeter Racecourse Saturday, November 24 EBF/TBA Mares’ Novice Chase Series Qualifier Huntingdon Racecourse Tuesday, December 11Thursday, December 13 TBA Annual Stud Farming Course The British Racing School, Newmarket Thursday, December 20 EBF/TBA Mares’ Novice Chase Series Qualifier Exeter Racecourse Wednesday, December 26 EBF/TBA Mares’ Novice Chase Series Qualifier Wincanton Racecourse

New Members

Winners

Diary Dates & Reminders

Geraldine O’Mahony, Ireland Gwenan Thomas, Ceredigion Mr Andrew Turner, Cambridgeshire Kirstin McMurray, Scotland Mr and Mrs R Peck, Derbyshire Mr Christian Byrne, Scotland Mr Stuart Thom, Hertfordshire

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TBA Forum

Investing in Breeding & Racing: Veterinary Research Standing in a field for days on end, waiting to collect droppings from broodmares: that’s the less-thanglamorous side of veterinary research, as practised by Dr Laura Peachey for her three-year, post-doctoral fellowship awarded through Cambridge University by the Levy Board in association with the TBA and European Breeders Fund.

Dr Peachey, whom alongside her fellowship at Cambridge, has recently commenced as lecturer in veterinary parasitology at Bristol University, is examining ‘equine host-parasite interactions on thoroughbred studs’, hence the initial requirement for faecal evidence from mares and yearlings that will form the basis of her study into what part the horse’s gut bacteria plays in immunity to parasite infection.

Acknowledging the backing she has received, she says: “Alongside the Levy Board and the EBF, the TBA has played a very important role in part-funding my research fellowship and has been incredibly supportive throughout in feeding back the results to its members and showing an ongoing interest in the outcome of my research, which wouldn’t have been possible without the funding.

“It’s important that the association is involved in this type of research because the future lies in high-level science that can solve complicated problems. In this case the emphasis is on thoroughbred rearing, looking at young stock, who are at high risk of parasite infections, and mares, whose role is more in passing on parasites to their offspring.”

Explaining the background to the project, Dr Peachey says: “Until recently people have just given wormers every four to eight weeks to prevent parasite infection, but now there is evidence of resistance to a lot of the worming drugs.

“Making new drugs seems like chasing your tail. I think we’ve been falsely reassured by one drug, ivermectin, that has worked well for around 30 years, but now we’re seeing evidence that resistance is developing to this drug and, furthermore, resistance is developing much faster to new drugs that have been developed for other animals.

“So, I’m looking to the future, and

Dr Laura Peachey speaking at the recent TBA Seminar

although drugs will play an important role, people should be looking at different ways of approaching the problem. If we understand the interaction between bacteria and parasites better, we can design different approaches to managing parasites, where we may be able to use specific feeds to promote health.

“There may be some specific bacteria that are linked to the immune response to a parasite infection, and if we knew that, we could then feed a pro-biotic, for example, or give horses a different diet that helps them to have a better immune response.

“In any herd of animals the minority have the majority of the parasites, which is due to genetics and their immunity, and also to their feeding behaviours, the way that they graze. It means that some animals naturally control their parasite levels. They don’t need treatment, whereas others do, and I’m interested in pushing those that do need treatment into the bracket of those that don’t, through better management.”

Entering the second year of her research, Dr Peachey has already found differences between the two groups of horses.

She explains: “In the yearlings I found very distinct changes to the gut bacteria as a result of high parasite levels which were probably bad for the animal, so

it’s probably pointing in the direction of developing intervention, such as to diet, to help improve the animal’s health in response to parasite infection.

“However, in the older broodmares there was evidence that, when present at low levels, the parasites were actually having a beneficial effect. This is not an alien concept, because animals and parasites have co-evolved over hundreds of thousands of years, so if you take the parasite away, it puts things out of kilter.

“In the broodmares, which have had the parasites for years and no treatment for months, everything was stable and it looked like those with relatively high levels of parasites were healthier in terms of their gut bacteria. This could be another argument against treating an adult horse, unless its parasite levels get up to a clinically significant level.”

Questions and more questions: Dr Peachey is aware that research does not always provide answers at the first time of asking. “In the fellowship I didn’t set out to test treatments or diets,” she says, “it was more to inform myself to be able to write reasonable future research proposals, aimed at developing dietary interventions. We had no knowledge before about the relationship between parasites and gut bacteria; this has created a base of knowledge.”

Looking to the future, indeed.

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At the sales with #thisfillycan The #thisfillycan campaign which was launched in 2016, has once again been active on social media covering the latest fillies’ news stories from the summer’s top race meetings.

The campaign was set up to encourage owners to buy fillies and put them into training by changing perceptions about their racing suitability, residual value and racecourse opportunities using social media, PR, advertising and editorial.

This year the #thisfillycan team has been active at domestic thoroughbred yearling sales to increase awareness of fillies’ value, the large number of race opportunities available to them and also highlight recent successes of fillies bought at the sale.

This year has been another vintage year for fillies on the track, with the

TBA Economic Impact Study Launch The launch of the TBA’s second thoroughbred industry Economic Impact Study (EIS) took place at The Royal Automobile Club in London on Tuesday September 25. The study looked into the key issues, tends, implications for the industry and possible solutions for a sustainable future for thoroughbred breeders and the wider sport.

A full report of the launch and the study will follow in next month’s magazine.

likes of Alpha Centauri dominating the Cartier Horse of the Year rankings following her impressive 3-year-old season which has included 4 Group 1 victories. Sea of Class has also proved a dominant force when winning both the Irish and Yorkshire Oaks in impressive style.

Goffs UK, Tattersalls and Tattersalls Ireland will all be supporting the campaign through the publication of the #thisfillycan logo on the appropriate catalogue pages.

Promotional merchandise such as coffee cups and caps will be available at all sales and to consigners of fillies.

The #thisfillycan would like to encourage everyone to share photos and success of their fillies on social media by using the hashtag: #thisfillycan

NH Mare Owners’ Prize Scheme deadline Registrations for the NH Mare Owners’ Prize Scheme are now open for fillies born in 2018 and applications will be accepted until January 31, 2019.

The scheme was set up by the TBA to help improve the demand for Britishbred or sired fillies aimed at NH racing, to encourage owners and trainers to race such mares and ensure that more of them are tested as NH racehorses prior to their breeding careers. The scheme works by allocating prizes of up to £10,000 to connections of registered mares that win eligible mares’ only races.

Registration for the scheme is free of charge to TBA members. Non-TBA members can register for the scheme for a fee of £150 per filly.

To download a registration form and for further information on the scheme including races and prizes, please visit the NHMOPS page on the TBA website.

Breeders’ Badge Offers The TBA is pleased to announce the following breeders’ badge offers: Sunday October 14 – Goodwood Racecourse Series Finale A limited number of badges for TBA members is on offer to attend the Series Finale. The day’s racing will be combined with a rural themed end of year fixture complete with real ales, craft beers and hog roast.

TBA members can apply for a maximum of two Richmond Enclosure badges for the day and they will be issued on a first come, first served basis. Application deadline is Monday October 8.

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For further information on this initiative, please visit thisfillycan.co.uk or follow @thisfillycan on Twitter and Instagram.

Ascot Racecourse Qipco British Champions Day Ascot is offering two owners & trainers badges for TBA members who have bred a runner on QIPCO British Champions Day, Saturday, October 20. Members can apply for two badges per horse entered and badges will be issued subject to the horse/s being declared.

To register for badges, please email Annette Bell at annette.bell@ thetba.co.uk with the following information: • Breeder’s name • Horse’s name • Race entered

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Breeder of the Month Words Hyperion Promotions Ltd

Sponsored by

Manufacturers of

BREEDER OF THE MONTH – AUGUST

CHEVELEY PARK STUD Even by their own high standards, August was an outstanding month for David and Patricia Thompson’s Cheveley Park Stud.

At the start of the month, their colours were carried to victory in a brace of Group races at Goodwood; Pilaster in the Group 2 Qatar Lillie Langtry Stakes and Regal Reality in the Group 3 Bonhams Thoroughbred Stakes. The latter is by Intello, one of eight stallions currently standing at Newmarket’s oldest stud farm. Their greatest stallion, Pivotal, sired his 28th individual Group 1 winner when Lightning Spear won the Sussex Stakes.

Since purchasing the stud, the Thompsons have made a massive investment in every sector of the industry.

As well as standing stallions and owning 140 broodmares, they keep more than 100 horses in training with 15 different trainers and are both buyers and sellers at bloodstock sales in Europe and North America.

The stud’s policy is to sell some of their yearling colts and, inevitably, this can result in a Cheveley Park-bred horse achieving Group 1 success for another owner. Such was the case in August when Advertise, who was bought by Dermot Farrington at last year’s Goffs UK Premier Yearling Sale for £60,000, won the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes in the colours of Phoenix Thoroughbred Limited.

On his previous start, the son of Showcasing had won the Group 2 July Stakes at Newmarket, defeating the Cheveley Park-bred colt Konchek, a son of resident stallion Lethal Force.

The consolation for the Thompsons is that their Pivotal mare Furbelow, the dam

Pilaster (left) beats Maid Up at Goodwood

of Advertise, has a Dream Ahead yearling filly, a Lethal Force colt foal and is in foal to their most recent stallion recruit, Ulysses.

The fifth Duke of Rutland established Cheveley Park in the 19th century and bred four Classic winners. After going through several changes of ownership, it was bought out of receivership by the Thompsons in 1975. Their first stallion was the Gimcrack Stakes winner Music Boy, who became the leading first season sire in 1980.

From only 270 acres in 1975, the stud has been expanded to almost 1,000 acres today. A significant factor in the successful growth of the business has been the stability provided by the longserving management team, with Managing Director Chris Richardson joining in 1987, Senior Manager John Marsh in 1988 and Stud Manager Andrew Snell in 1990.

SPECIAL MERIT AWARD – AUGUST

MRS B.A. MATTHEWS Marie Matthews, who lives in Beverley, East Yorkshire, achieved an extraordinary

breeding feat when Alpha Delphini held on by the narrowest of margins to win the Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes at York.

The winner, a seven-year-old gelded son of Captain Gerrard, is a half-brother to Tangerine Trees, a gelding by Mind Games, who won the 2011 Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp. Like his halfbrother, he is trained by Bryan Smart for a syndicate that includes their breeder.

The dam of these two Group 1 winners is Easy To Imagine, an unraced mare by Cozzene. She has also produced four other winners from as many runners by Lujain, Traditionally, Kuroshio and Sepoy.

Matthews acquired the Gainsborough Stud-bred Easy To Imagine as an unraced two-year-old for 5,200gns at the Doncaster November Sales in 2002.

“I chose her on my own judgement,” Matthews recalled. “I thought she had a wonderful pedigree and, despite being unraced, had the potential to make a broodmare.”

Reflecting on the choice of Mickley Stud-based Captain Gerrard, Matthews said: “We were trying to keep the size of the offspring down a bit and it was quite a nice match on pedigree.”

As she breeds to sell, both future Group 1 winners went through the sales ring. Tangerine Trees was bought back for £8,000 at the Doncaster October Yearling Sales and Alpha Delphini was bought by Oliver St Lawrence for 20,000gns at the Tattersalls October Book 2 Sale.

As well as being a tribute to their breeder, the half-brothers are a fine testament to the skill of North Yorkshire trainer Smart, who has transformed a pair of 70-rated four-year-old geldings into Group 1 winners.

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21/09/2018 15:54

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04/07/2018 12:35:00

BRYAN SMART RACING

A CONSTANT SOURCE OF SUCCESS AND AN ENVIABLE EYE FOR A HORSE!!

Horses selected and purchased by Bryan include: ALPHA DELPHINI bought for £20,000, won over £300,000 incl: Coolmore Nunthorpe Stks G1, Beverley Bullet LR ALICANTE DAWN bought for £5,000, won Ripon 2yo Trophy LR MOVIESTA bought for £46.200, won over £258,000 incl: King George Stks G2 HELLVELYN (G2) CAPTAIN GERRARD (G3), MONSIEUR BOND (G2), EASTON ANGEL, SPIN CYCLE, EXCELETTE, KHELEYF’S SILVER (dam of Tiggy Wiggy) and many more.

If you would like Bryan to select a potential star for you at one of the upcoming bloodstock sales please ring: 07748 634797 • 01845 597481 Hambleton House, Sutton Bank, North Yorkshire YO7 2HA www.bryansmart-racing.com

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Vet Forum: The Expert View

Vetting for Hong Kong Every new season sees more and more horses sold to race in Hong Kong from Europe, but there will be many others who have been targeted but

Fig 1a

ROB PILSWORTH

have not passed the region’s stringent vetting process, explained here

Fig 1b

Figure 1 The population and housing density in Hong Kong (Fig 1a) means that racehorses compete directly with people for space.

The racetracks are ringed by tower blocks (Fig 1b). Horses simply have to perform, to make the case for racing

W

ith the horses-in-training sales just around the corner, Newmarket Equine Hospital recently hosted a one-day scientific meeting entitled ‘Vetting the Thoroughbred Racehorse’. This meeting covered many of the areas of complexity encountered in ‘vettings’, and gave the 50 or so delegates present a massive amount of information and food for thought. One area covered was the often contentious vetting procedure required for the importation of a horse into Hong Kong. Dr Chris Riggs, head of the Department of Veterinary Clinical Services for Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC), made the trip over from Hong Kong to explain just why vetting for the jurisdiction might appear to be different, and to justify the reasons.

Riggs made the point early on that the HKJC plays no part at all in the purchase of horses, other than a very small number of yearlings for their own annual sale held in Hong Kong itself. The purchase and related veterinary examinations constitute a private contract between the seller, the veterinary

surgeon and the prospective owner in Hong Kong. The vetting procedure laid down by the HKJC relates only to the owner being granted permission to import the horse.

Of course, the worst scenario is for the vet to pass the horse for purchase and for the HKJC to deny it an entry permit, so effectively the two things are closely interlinked. To understand fully the pressures involved with those dealing with the importation of horses to Hong Kong one has to understand something about racing in Hong Kong in general.

Racing started there in 1841, when the British drained an area of malarial swampland to produce the Happy Valley racecourse. A second racecourse was opened on land reclaimed from the sea in Sha Tin in the new territories in 1978. At both sites, the huge demands of population and housing (Fig 1a) inevitably restrict the land that is available for racing (Fig 1b).

Hong Kong Island and the new territories occupy a total area of just over 1,000 square kilometres, less than 0.5 % of the land area of the United Kingdom, yet this land mass

supports a population of eight million people – approximately 12% of the British population. This impacts massively on the space available for stabling racehorses.

Racehorses are all stabled at Sha Tin (they commute to and from Happy Valley by horse box) in ‘high-rise’ stable blocks (see Fig 2) and it is this pressure on numbers that impacts massively on the very strict and stringent requirements for a horse to get in at all. With a maximum racing population of 1,200 horses (less than half the number stabled in Newmarket for instance) the HKJC simply cannot afford to have horses arrive for racing, only for them soon to become injured or unable to train.

Size of the industry

In addition to requirements for space, racing in Hong Kong plays a big part in many aspects of the region’s economy and development. Betting turnover in Hong Kong is over £11 billion. Payments of duty to the Hong Kong government from racehorse betting total over £1 billion annually, with £707 million donated to local

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By Rob Pilsworth MRCVS

Racehorse ownership

Unlike in the UK, where anybody can buy a horse and place it with a trainer, in Hong Kong the acquisition of racehorses is strictly controlled. The HKJC owns all of the facilities in which horses are stabled and trained. The horses are privately owned, but the owner must be an established member of the HKJC, and possess a valid permit, in order to import a horse. Permits are limited in number - the allocation of permits is significantly oversubscribed every year, with a ballot held to determine their distribution.

Many Hong Kong racehorse owners are hugely wealthy, highly successful people, who are not used to being told what they can and can’t do, so this restriction can set up a degree of anxiety from the outset.

Once in Hong Kong, horses are distributed to one of 23 trainers, according to the owner’s wishes, but the trainers themselves are also limited to a maximum of 60 horses each (the introduction of the new facility at Conghua has allowed some trainers to increase horse numbers to 70, but only very recently.)

Public scrutiny

As direct employees of the HKJC, all veterinarians are required to maintain detailed treatment records, and any information which might affect the racing performance of the horse is published for open access on the HKJC ’s website.

For this reason, there is no possibility of covert action by the vet being able to mask potential problems in a racehorse with a pre-existing condition. Everything is open to public and press scrutiny, all the time.

Racehorse numbers

In addition to the paucity of physical space, the Jockey Club is limited to staging a maximum of 88 race meetings each season.

With a maximum of 1,200 racehorses this means that these horses have to be busy.

Each horse has to race on average 6.7 times a season, meaning at least every six weeks. Given that high-profile horses would probably race less often, this means that the majority of racehorses in Hong Kong have to run at least seven times per season.

Costs and benefits

All the costs associated with racing in Hong Kong are high. The cost of importation alone is approximately £15,000, and training fees amount to over £4,500 a month. Prize-

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a quality control mechanism on the initial examination, and a second pair of eyes on all of the images. All of these nominated veterinary surgeons are highly experienced and reputable equine veterinarians, in each of the major exporting regions. They act as a filter to reject images of insufficient diagnostic quality, or certification that has not been completed correctly, before these are forwarded to Hong Kong. They may also require re-examination of the horse, and they have the power to overrule the opinion of the original examining vet.

Finally, the nominated veterinary surgeon has to submit a report directly to the HKJC for review and final approval.

So what are the common reasons for this process to result in the failure to obtain such a permit?

money is also high — over HK$1 million on average — and the purses involved in Group 1 races are regularly in the order of several million. This all adds to the pressure. These horses are there to race, the prize-money is massive, and if they can’t race there’s no possibility of the owner recouping any of the significant costs involved.

Vetting for import

Any potential import first has to undergo a rigorous five-stage vetting procedure by a vet appointed by the owner or his agent. The HKJC has published a detailed protocol and a suitable proforma document for the vet to complete.

In addition, it has specified a list of the exact radiographic projections required in the set of x-rays, and what ultrasound scans to perform. Once the veterinary examination is completed, the vet has a

Horses for courses

ROB PILSWORTH

HKJC charities. Average attendance at race meetings is 18,000 people at Happy Valley and 30,000 at Sha Tin; these are huge numbers and reflect the enormous significance of racing to this region. Racing has to work.

Figure 2 The ‘high-rise’ stable blocks, with walkways down to the track, developed to accommodate as many horses as possible in the tight space available

choice of three summary conclusions. The first is that the horse has no abnormality to affect its suitability for racing at all, and that the horse meets the requirements of importation to Hong Kong.

The second alternative is that the horse clinically meets the requirements of the HKJC, but in that vet’s opinion there is a finding of a low or moderate potential significance or risk for racing that has been noted. The prospective owner should be made aware of these findings, so that an informed decision can be made whether or not to proceed with the importation.

The third is that the vet considers the horse just doesn’t meet requirements for importation. So the examination is often not just a ‘pass’ or ‘fail’ situation. There are grey areas, and some horses will need discussion before a decision is made. In addition to this first hurdle, the vet’s report, and all of the diagnostic images obtained, then have to be forwarded to a second nominated vet, appointed by the HKJC. This panel of nominated experts acts as

The racing conditions in Hong Kong are very different to those encountered in the UK or in Europe. Almost all of the training is done on dirt or synthetic surfaces. While most races are on turf, this turf is unlike that which we are used to in the UK. It is grown on a layer of sand mixed with small squares of nylon mesh which is laid on top of a free-draining, hard base, to cope with the torrential rain which can fall in Hong Kong. This highly efficient drainage system ensures a consistency in the turf, almost irrespective of rainfall. Racing is rarely disrupted by the weather. All racing is on oval tracks, and this puts different potential loads on the limb to those that would be encountered in most racing in the UK. For this reason many racehorses that could continue to train and race satisfactorily in Europe may struggle to be competitive in Hong Kong. It’s filtering out these horses that is the prime goal of the importation procedure.

Another difference between Hong Kong and elsewhere is the standard inclusion of a mandatory pre-race veterinary check.

Every horse which runs in Hong Kong is jogged-up beforehand by a vet appointed by the HKJC and has to be deemed to have a good enough action to be allowed to race.

Although in the UK the BHA is rumoured to have a ‘bad-mover list’ for horses that might be routinely monitored pre-race, this is not a mandatory part of routine racing. In Hong Kong, such ‘bad movers’ may simply not be allowed to start, ever.

The most common reason for injury requiring retirement in Hong Kong is over-strain of the superficial digital flexor tendon (a ‘bowed tendon’). Although the bane of jumpers in this part of the world, this would most certainly not be the case in Flat horses, where the injury is relatively uncommon. This means that

››

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HKJC standards will be especially high for tendons. Recently Hong Kong vets have introduced a mandatory requirement for assessment of the cross-sectional area of the tendon, with an upper acceptable cut-off. They have a perception, as yet unsubstantiated scientifically, that horses with enlarged tendons, or which have difference in size between the two tendons (see Fig 3) represent an increased risk of the development of later tendonitis.

The second injury ‘hot-spot’ in Hong Kong is the front fetlock joint, particularly subchondral bone lesions. For this reason they require very high standard radiographs of the front fetlock joints, including flexed views, so that the integrity and composition of the subchondral bone in the fetlock can be fully evaluated. The radiograph shown in figure 4 is from a horse which failed preimportation requirements to HK but carried on winning at a high level in the UK. The horse clearly bears a lesion of subchondral bone resorption (white arrow) that would always put it at increased risk of developing lameness. This type of case is used to highlight the perceived inadequacies in the Hong Kong vetting system, but of course this horse may not have been able to perform on the different track surfaces encountered there, had the purchase been allowed to proceed.

Another of the listed conditions for potential unsuitability for importation is the presence of a bone cyst, but a cyst would not always be a straight rule-out. A discreet cyst, like the one shown in figure

Figure 4 A dorsopalmar flexed view of the right fore fetlock of a three-yearold racehorse. There is a semilunar crescent-shaped lucency in the lateral condyl, indicative of the surface of the cartilage wearing through, allowing resorption of the bone underneath the cartilage (the subchondral bone).

This lesion resulted in this horse being rejected for importation into Hong Kong. He continued to race at a high level with great success for a further two years, but there is no knowing what the result would have been had the horse continued his career in Hong Kong

5, within the accessory carpal bone at the back of the knee, might be of concern in an unbroken yearling, but in a horse of three or four with no problems or career breaks, it would almost certainly be accepted. So the same lesion can both present obstacles, and be acceptable, in differing circumstances. The same is true of some cases of sesamoiditis (Fig 6).

Owners of horses put up for sale which don’t pass the test may well feel aggrieved at being denied a very advantageous sale for a good price. Conversely, the HKJC vets will be ‘blasted’ by their racing community if their owners are allowed to buy a horse which later rapidly has problems and is unable to race. As Dr Riggs pointed out, Hong Kong owners have high expectations.

They’ve paid a lot of money, and often see their purchase of a racehorse in the same light as the purchase of a sports car. Both are expected to perform. The HK vetting system is there to give them the best shot at making that happen.

Figure 5 A subchondral bone cyst (white arrow) in the accessory carpal bone of the left knee in a yearling.

Whilst this radiographic finding might be of concern in a young horse with its entire career ahead of it, it may well be considered suitable for importation following a proven racing career

ROB PILSWORTH

››

ROB PILSWORTH

Figure 3 Asymmetric cross-sectional area of the superficial flexor tendon in a racehorse. The tendon on the right is significantly larger than the one on the left, despite showing no actual defect in fibre pattern or general echogenicity.

Although this tendon would be completely manageable trained within the UK, Hong Kong vets have come to view this type of asymmetry as presenting increased risk for later developing a ‘bowed’ tendon

(COURTESY MARCUS HEAD)

ROB PILSWORTH

Vet Forum: The Expert View

Figure 6 An irregular proximal sesamoid bone. This bone may cause concern at a pre-sale vetting of a twoyear-old, but may well be acceptable for Hong Kong in an older horse with a proven race record. This apparent inconsistency is totally explicable by the fact that once the horse has reached the age of three or four and has raced and trained without interruption, it is very unlikely that this lesion will cause trouble in the future

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Dr Statz

John Boyce cracks the code

Mastercraftsman knocking on the door of elite stallion status W hen precocious speed is highly prized and middle-distance class less so – particularly below the very top – it’s a tough place to build a reputation as a stallion. In recent years we have seen many worthy middle-distance sires make an early transfer to the National Hunt sphere.

Mastercraftsman could have been just such a sire. Yet, the son of Danehill Dancer has transformed his fortunes in recent years.

Commendable as siring a St Leger winner like Kingston Hill undoubtedly is, there is no substitution for speed and class in the eyes of the uncompromising commercial breeder, looking to make a profit. The advent of The Grey Gatsby, whose finest two minutes came at Leopardstown in 2014 when he defeated the Derby winner Australia in the Irish Champion Stakes, plus the exciting dual Group 1 scorer Amazing Maria, marked Mastercraftsman down as a stallion with a multitude of talents.

Then came Alpha Centauri, the best of her generation, including the colts. Her spring and early summer exploits gave focus to a season that took until midAugust to take shape when the Classic generation finally decided to show up.

With dominant victories in the Irish 1,000 Guineas, Coronation, Falmouth (like Amazing Maria) and Prix Jacques le Marois, Alpha Centauri created an air of authority that her Timeform rating of 128 barely did justice to. Sadly, an injury sustained in the Matron Stakes in September meant that Alpha Centauri was retired to the paddocks.

Now in his sixth year with runners, Mastercraftsman has sired 36 stakes winners from his northern hemisphere crops. His stakes-winner strike-rate stands at 6.7%, which says much more about the type of mare he covered at the outset of his career, rather than his inherent ability as a sire. This percentage is right in line of what was expected from his mares, who have a 6.8% score with all other sires. But much more important for him is the fact that he hits the jackpot more often than he’s entitled to. In other words, his good horses tend to be very good.

The combined Timeform ratings of his best ten runners averages out at 120.9, which puts him on a par with Dark Angel and Teofilo after their first six years. Only the elite group of Galileo, Dubawi, Sea The Stars, Shamardal, Oasis Dream and Pivotal

112

Mastercraftsman’s best runners by Timeform rating TFR

Horse

YOB

Sex

Dam

Broodmare Sire

Starts

Max Winning Distance

128

ALPHA CENTAURI

2015

F

Alpha Lupi

Rahy

10

8

128

THE GREY GATSBY

2011

C

Marie Vison

Entrepreneur

28

10.5

125

KINGSTON HILL

2011

C

Audacieuse

Rainbow Quest

8

14.7

120

AMAZING MARIA

2011

F

Messias da Silva

Tale of the Cat

18

8

119

A RAVING BEAUTY

2013

F

Anabasis

High Chaparral

21

9

119

VINTAGER

2015

C

White and Red

Orpen

7

8

119

GIBBS HILL

2013

C

Gold Charm

Key Of Luck

7

12.3

117

OFF LIMITS

2012

F

Ravish

Efisio

21

8.5

117

MASTER THE WORLD

2011

G

Zadalla

Zaha

56

10

117

MASTER CARPENTER

2011

C

Fringe

In The Wings

50

10.4

had better scores at the same stage in their careers. The way this season is going, Mastercraftsman could easily break into the top ten sires of the past 20 years when measured in this way. Another telling insight is that when assessed with elite mares only, Mastercraftsman sires 11.4% stakes winners and this is perhaps a truer reflection of his merit for anyone sending him a good mare.

Then there is the fact he has sired topclass horses from eight to 14 furlongs, so he’s not at all typecast when it comes to the aptitude of his runners. He has a stamina index of 10.2 furlongs, but overall also adds extra staying power as his mares normally average 8.8 furlongs with other sires.

Being a talented son of Danehill Dancer that won at Group 1 level over six and seven furlongs at two, in the Phoenix and National Stakes, and a mile at three in the Irish 2,000 Guineas and St James’s Palace Stakes, it was no surprise that breeders have sent him plenty of Sadler’s Wells-line mares in a bid to recreate the excellent Sadler’s Wells/ Danehill partnership. From 100 runners, it has yielded eight stakes winners (8%) –

featuring Group 1 winners The Grey Gatsby and A Raving Beauty – which is above his overall score of 6.7% but below what he has achieved with elite mares.

He has also recorded 8.2% with Mr Prospector-line mares, but the two crosses that stand out are his partnership with Blushing Groom-line mares and Storm Catline mares. Mastercraftsman has sired four stakes winners from 28 runners (14.3%), including Alpha Centauri, from the Blushing Groom line and four stakes winners from 25 runners (16.0%), including Amazing Maria, from the Storm Cat line.

Mastercraftsman can now look forward to an increase in mare quality. With that will come horses that could conceivably one day even replace his two stars – the 128-rated pair Alpha Centauri and The Grey Gatsby – at the head of his impressive list of runners.

Alpha Centauri: brilliant filly has now been retired

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LUDLOW RACE CLUB OWNERS’ INFORMATION 2018/2019 PARKING: Owners and Trainers Car Park is opposite the Stables.

It is reserved for Owners with Runners on the day, Licenced Trainers & Jockeys and for the holders of ROA Car Labels.

BADGES: PASS System in operation. Badge allocation as follows: Six Owners Badges per runner. Additional Badges available as follows: Single Owner and Partnerships: Four additional badges at ½ Price. Syndicates: Members Day Badges available at Party discount rate by prior arrangement with the Racecourse Office.

OWNERS O & T Bar in Clive Pavilion adjacent to Car Park.

FACILITIES: Admission by the current O & T Badge. Complimentary Tea and Coffee available. Up to 6 Lunch Vouchers per runner valid for the Dish of the Day served in the O & T lounge.

WINNING Winning Owners will be invited for a glass (or two) OWNERS: of Champagne with a Director of the Course and will receive a memento and a USB of their Race.

The winning owner will also receive a hamper along with the memento.

GOING: Going information is updated daily on our website from 7 days prior to the meeting.

Bromfield, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 2BT • Tel: 01584 856221 Fax: 01584 856217 (Racedays only) Email: mail@ludlowracecourse.co.uk Follow us on Twitter at: Ludlow Racecourse@LudlowRaceClub FURTHER INFORMATION Website www.ludlowracecourse.co.uk General Manager/Club Secretary: Simon Sherwood who is also Clerk of the Course • Mobile: 07836 215639 Table Reservations and Boxes: Diane Thomas • Mobile: 07791 637259 Accountant: Tracy Price • Office: 01584 856221

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Data Book • Analysis by Andrew Caulfield European Pattern 220 LARC - PRIX MAURICE DE GHEEST G1 DEAUVILLE. Aug 5. 3yo+. 1300m.

1. POLYDREAM (IRE) 3 8-10 £192,152 b f by Oasis Dream - Polygreen (Green Tune) O-Wertheimer et Frere B-Wertheimer et Frere TR-F. Head 2. James Garfield (IRE) 3 9-0 £76,874 b c by Exceed And Excel - Whazzat (Daylami) O-W. J. and T. C. O. Gredley B-Stetchworth & Middle Park Studs Ltd TR-George Scott 3. The Tin Man (GB) 6 9-4 £38,437 b g by Equiano - Persario (Bishop of Cashel) O-Fred Archer Racing - Ormonde B-Mrs E. M. Grundy TR-James Fanshawe Margins 0.5, 2.5. Time 1:16.00. Going Good.

Age Starts Wins Places Earned 2-3 6 4 1 £331,891 Sire: OASIS DREAM. Sire of 114 Stakes winners. In 2018 - POLYDREAM Green Tune G1, PRETTY POLLYANNA Shamardal G1, ERTIJAAL Seeking The Gold G2, IMAGING Dubai Destination LR, MR RITZ Contested Bid LR, MRS GALLAGHER Refuse To Bend LR. 1st Dam: POLYGREEN by Green Tune. 4 wins at 3 and 4 in France, USA, Prix d’Angerville LR, 2nd Monrovia H G3. Dam of 4 winners:

2006: 2007:

2008: 2009: 2010: 2011: 2013: 2014: 2015:

2016:

Polytecnic (c Smart Strike) ran on the flat in France.

EVAPORATION (f Red Ransom) 5 wins at 2 to 4 in France, Prix Amandine LR, Prix Isola Bella LR, 2nd Prix du Pin G3, Prix Edmond Blanc - Top 14 Orange G3, Prix Perth G3, 3rd Prix de Sandringham G2, Prix du Muguet G2, Qatar Prix Daniel Wildenstein G2. Broodmare.

Polymania (f Bering) ran on the flat in France.

Verdana (f Selkirk) ran on the flat in France.

Godyra (f Zamindar) unraced.

YOUR GAME (f Montjeu) Winner at 3 in France. Broodmare.

Ankle (c Shamardal) 3 wins at 3 and 4 in France, 3rd Gd. Criterium de Bordeaux HK Jockey Club LR. Siligreen (f Dansili) POLYDREAM (f Oasis Dream) 4 wins at 2 and 3 in France, LARC - Prix Maurice de Gheest G1, Shadwell Prix du Calvados G3, Prix du Palais Royal G3, 2nd Total Prix Marcel Boussac G1.

Big Brothers Pride (f Invincible Spirit) unraced to date.

2nd Dam: YXENERY by Sillery. 3 wins at 2 and 3 in France Prix Saraca LR, Prix La Camargo LR. Dam of POLYGREEN (f Green Tune, see above), Perfect Blessings (f Kheleyf: 3rd Betfred EBF Stallions Cecil Frail S LR, Betway Cammidge Trophy LR) Broodmare Sire: GREEN TUNE. Sire of the dams of 24 Stakes winners. In 2018 - POLYDREAM Oasis Dream G1, SPOTIFY Redoute’s Choice LR.

POLYDREAM b f 2015 Danzig

Northern Dancer Pas de Nom

Foreign Courier

Sir Ivor Courtly Dee

Dancing Brave

Lyphard Navajo Princess

Bahamian

Mill Reef Sorbus

Green Dancer

Nijinsky Green Valley

Soundings

Mr Prospector Ocean’s Answer

Sillery

Blushing Groom Silvermine

Polyxena

Lyphard Minstrel Girl

Green Desert OASIS DREAM b 00 Hope

Green Tune POLYGREEN b 99 Yxenery

As a champion two-year-old who developed into a champion sprinter, Oasis Dream was a very fast individual. This hasn’t stopped him siring some very successful middledistance performers, led by the outstanding filly Midday, but he has arguably been more effective as a sire of sprinters. During his lengthy career he has sired two winners of the King’s Stand Stakes, as well as winners of the Commonwealth Cup,

July Cup, Nunthorpe Stakes, British Champions Sprint Stakes, the Golden Shaheen and the Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp. He now also has two winners of the Gr1 Prix Maurice de Gheest, with the threeyear-old filly Polydream following in the footsteps of Muhaarar.

The only disappointing effort of Polydream’s career came in the Poule d’Essai des Pouliches. She has now won four of her six starts, including the Gr3 Prix du Calvados (in which she defeated Laurens) and the Gr3 Prix du Palais-Royal, and she was also second to Wild Illusion in the Gr1 Prix Marcel Boussac over a mile.

Like so many high-class performers, Polydream represents several generations of breeding by the Wertheimer family, with her first three dams all bred by the Wertheimer brothers. Her dam Polygreen won the Listed Prix d’Angerville over a mile before finishing seventh to Oasis Dream’s half-sister Zenda in the Poule d’Essai des Pouliches. Transferred to California, she added further successes over six and a half furlongs and a mile. Polygreen’s best previous winner was the smart Red Ransom filly Evaporation, who did well at around a mile.

Polydream’s second dam Yxenery was a Listed winner over a mile at two and three, and the next dam, Polyxena, enjoyed Listed success over a mile and a mile and a quarter.

Polyxena had two talented half-brothers, notably Truculent, a triple Gr3 winner at up to a mile and a quarter in France.

221 HENKEL PREIS DER DIANA - GERMAN OAKS G1 DUSSELDORF. Aug 5. 3yof. 2200m.

1. WELL TIMED (GER) 9-2 £265,487 b f by Holy Roman Emperor - Wells Present (Cadeaux Genereux) O-Stall Ullmann B-Stall Ullmann TR-Jean-Pierre Carvalho 2. Night of England (GB) 9-2 £88,496 b f by Lord of England - Ninas Rainbow (Rainbow Quest) O-Stall Route 66 B-Windmill Farm Partnership Limited TR-Henk Grewe 3. Wonder of Lips (GER) 9-2 £44,248 b f by Champs Elysees - Wunderblume (Lomitas) O-Stall Lintec B-Gestut Ravensberg TR-Andreas Suborics Margins 1.75, 2.5. Time 2:12.63. Going Good.

Age Starts Wins Places Earned 2-3 5 4 1 £316,185 Sire: HOLY ROMAN EMPEROR. Sire of 79 Stakes winners. In 2018 - GLORIOUS EMPIRE Pivotal G1, ROMANISED Indian Ridge G1, WELL TIMED Cadeaux Genereux G1, BEAUTY ONLY Ali-Royal G2, DUCA VALENTINOIS Fruits of Love G3, HOLY LEGAL Minstrel Glory G3, JOHN SUNDAY Until Sundown G3, SHAHROZE Bahri G3, LLUVIA DE PLATA Total Impact LR, PARA HOLY Fusaichi Pegasus LR. 1st Dam: WELLS PRESENT by Cadeaux Genereux. 2 wins at 3 in Germany, Grosser Hoppegartener 3yo Stutenpreis LR, 3rd Walther J Jacobs Stutenpreis G3.

Dam of 6 winners:

2007:

2009: 2010: 2011: 2012: 2013:

WELLS TIGRESS (f Tiger Hill) Winner at 4 in France. Broodmare.

Welcome (f Monsun) unraced. Broodmare.

WELL AWAY (f Monsun) Winner at 4 in Germany. Broodmare.

WIND CHILL (c Monsun) 4 wins at 4 to 6 in Germany.

WELL OFF (g Monsun) Winner at 3.

WIND OF CHANGE (c Monsun) Winner at

2014: 2015:

2016: 2017:

3 in Germany.

Well Favoured (f Shirocco) unraced.

WELL TIMED (f Holy Roman Emperor) 4 wins at 3 in Germany, Henkel Preis der Diana - German Oaks G1, Soldier Hollow Diana Trial G2, BMW Preis Dusseldorf Niederlassungen LR. Warrior (c Soldier Hollow) unraced to date. (f Adlerflug)

2nd Dam: Wells Whisper by Sadler’s Wells. Own sister to JOHANN QUATZ and WALTER WILLY. Dam of WHISPERED SECRET (g Selkirk: Grosser Bavaria Preis LR, 2nd Fruhjahrspreis des Bankhaus Metzler G3, 2nd Tote Scoop6 Sandown H. Hurdle G3, Ladbrokes Trophy H. Chase G3), WELLS PRESENT (f Cadeaux Genereux, see above), Wellington Hall (g Halling: 2nd Stall Lowenherz-Grosser 3yo Herbstpreis LR, Grosser Radeberger Pilsner Preis LR), Whispering Hills (g Tiger Hill: 3rd John Smith’s Champion Open NH. Flat Race G2).

Grandam of AKEED MOFEED, JORDAN SPORT, WANDERINA, Quart de Rhum, Quart de Lino, Quart de Peche, Quart de Tune, Quart de Roi. Broodmare Sire: CADEAUX GENEREUX. Sire of the dams of 62 Stakes winners. In 2018 - TEPPAL Camacho G1, WELL TIMED Holy Roman Emperor G1, HARRY ANGEL Dark Angel G2, DIAPHORA Pivotal LR. The Holy Roman Emperor/Cadeaux Genereux cross has produced: WELL TIMED G1, ROCK MY LOVE G2, HOKU G3, FASTEST FINGER LR, Emperor Hadrian LR.

HOLY ROMAN EMPEROR b 04

Danzig

Northern Dancer Pas de Nom

Razyana

His Majesty Spring Adieu

Secretariat

Bold Ruler Somethingroyal

Fanfreluche

Northern Dancer Ciboulette

L’On Vite

Cadeaux Genereux WELLS PRESENT b 02

Young Generation Balidar Brig O’Doon Smarten Up

Sharpen Up L’Anguissola

Sadler’s Wells

Northern Dancer Fairy Bridge

Whakilyric

Miswaki Lyrism

Wells Whisper

BERLIN-HOPPEGARTEN. Aug 12. 3yo+. 2400m.

1. BEST SOLUTION (IRE) 4 9-6 £97,345 b c by Kodiac - Al Andalyya (Kingmambo) O-Godolphin B-C. & M. McCracken TR-Saeed bin Suroor 2. Sound Check (GER) 5 9-6 £35,398 b h by Lando - Sky Dancing (Exit To Nowhere) O-Gestut Ittlingen B-Gestut Ittlingen TR-P. Schiergen 3. Royal Youmzain (FR) 3 8-10 £13,274 b c by Youmzain - Spasha (Shamardal) O-Jaber Abdullah B-Rabbah Bloodstock Limited TR-A Wohler Margins Neck, 0.5. Time 2:29.35. Going Good.

Age Starts Wins Places Earned 2-4 21 8 7 £722,282 Sire: KODIAC. Sire of 45 Stakes winners. In 2018 BEST SOLUTION Kingmambo G1, FAIRYLAND Pivotal G2, TRUE VALOUR Acclamation G3, ADORABLE Seattle Dancer LR, BROTHER BEAR Mr Greeley LR, CALL ME HANDSOME Gone West LR, EURO NIGHTMARE Key of Luck LR, NEVER BACK DOWN Pivotal LR, SECOND THOUGHT Diktat LR, SPORTING CHANCE Giant’s Causeway LR. 1st Dam: Al Andalyya by Kingmambo. Dam of 1 winner:

2013: 2014:

WELL TIMED b f 2015 Danehill

222 LONGINES GROSSER PREIS VON BERLIN G1

Success breeds success, as Holy Roman Emperor is busily demonstrating. Back in 2013 he finished 12th on Weatherbys’ leading sires table, which combines earnings at home and overseas, with no fewer than nine Group/Graded winners to his credit. These efforts maintained his fee at €20,000 in 2014 and his 2015 crop has produced two Classic winners in the shape of Romanised, who took the Irish 2,000 Guineas, and now Well Timed, who justified favouritism in the Preis der Diana after winning the Gr2 Diana Trial.

Well Timed comes from a family which is no stranger to Classic success. Her second dam, the Sadler’s Wells mare Wells Whisper, was a half-sister to Hernando, the accomplished international performer whose exploits included a victory in the Prix du Jockey-Club and a second place in the Arc. Wells Whisper was also a sister to Johann Quatz, who won the Gr1 Prix Lupin over an extended mile and a quarter and finished fourth in the Prix du Jockey-Club over a mile and a half before transferring to the US, where he was second to Barathea in the Breeders’ Cup Mile. The stamina shown by these two high-class colts helps explain why Well Timed is suited by middle distances, even though her dam Wells Present is by the sprinter Cadeaux Genereux.

Wells Present gained her Listed victory over a mile and a quarter.

2015: 2017: 2018:

Socks And Shares (g Elnadim) ran 3 times.

BEST SOLUTION (c Kodiac) Sold 90,000gns yearling at TAOC2. 8 wins at 2 to 4 at home, Germany, UAE, Longines Grosser Preis von Baden G1, Longines Grosser Preis von Berlin G1, Arqana Princess of Wales’s S G2, Worthington’s St Simon S G3, Dubai 100 Autumn S G3, Betfred Derby Trial S LR, 2nd Criterium de Saint-Cloud G1, Grosser Dallmayr Bayerisches Zuchtrennen G1, 3rd International Trakya Trophy LR. Desert Mountain (g Epaulette) in training. (f Gutaifan) (c Kodiac)

2nd Dam: Kushnarenkovo by Sadler’s Wells. 1 win at 3, 2nd Kerry Group EBF Noblesse S G3. Own sister to BRIAN BORU and KITTY O’SHEA. Dam of KOSMISCHE (f Fastnet Rock: Preis Medienhauses Winterkonigin Trial LR), Cape Clear Island (c Fastnet Rock: 2nd bet365 Classic Trial G3, 2nd Prix Hocquart G2), Squire Osbaldeston (c Mr Greeley: 3rd BetVictor Magnolia S LR) Broodmare Sire: KINGMAMBO. Sire of the dams of 128 Stakes winners. In 2018 - BEST SOLUTION Kodiac G1, ADDEYBB Pivotal G2, CROSS COUNTER Teofilo G3, HAMADA Cape Cross G3, TEXTING Candy Ride G3, WITCHCRAFT Kahal G3.

BEST SOLUTION b c 2014 Danzig

Northern Dancer Pas de Nom

Razyana

His Majesty Spring Adieu

Kris

Sharpen Up Doubly Sure

Eljazzi

Artaius Border Bounty

Mr Prospector

Raise A Native Gold Digger

Miesque

Nureyev Pasadoble

Sadler’s Wells

Northern Dancer Fairy Bridge

Eva Luna

Alleged Media Luna

Danehill KODIAC b 01 Rafha

Kingmambo AL ANDALYYA ch 08 Kushnarenkovo

See under Grosser Preis von Baden 223 KEENELAND PHOENIX STAKES G1 CURRAGH. Aug 12. 2yoc&f. 6f.

1. ADVERTISE (GB) 9-3 £126,106 b c by Showcasing - Furbelow (Pivotal) O-Phoenix Thoroughbred Limited 1 B-Cheveley Park Stud Limited TR-Martyn Meade 2. So Perfect (USA) 9-0 £42,035 b f by Scat Daddy - Hopeoverexperience (Songandaprayer) O-Mr D. Smith, Mrs J. Magnier, Mr M. Tabor B-Machmer Hall TR-Aidan O’Brien 3. The Irish Rover (IRE) 9-3 £19,912 b c by No Nay Never - Shelley Beach (Danehill Dancer) O-Mr M. Tabor, D. Smith & Mrs John Magnier B-Lynch - Bages & Longfield Stud TR-Aidan O’Brien

114 THOROUGHBRED OWNER & BREEDER INC PACEMAKER

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CAULFIELD ON NONZA: “She follows the Group 3 winner Baghadur as only the second Group winner from the first five crops by Zanzibari, who began his stallion career at a fee of only €1,000” Margins 0.5, 0.5. Time 1:12.29. Going Good.

Age Starts Wins Places Earned 2 4 3 1 £210,193 Sire: SHOWCASING. Sire of 28 Stakes winners. In 2018 - ADVERTISE Pivotal G1, BIT LIPPY Van Nistelrooy G3, DICE ROLL Pulpit G3, SOLDIER’S CALL Iceman G3, ATENARTIN O’Reilly LR, BE BEE Fusaichi Pegasus LR, SO FAR SOKOOL Bin Ajwaad LR. 1st Dam: FURBELOW by Pivotal. Winner at 3. Own sister to RED DIADEM. Dam of 2 winners:

2014: 2015: 2016:

2017: 2018:

Go Guarantor (g Medicean) FLAVIUS TITUS (c Lethal Force) 2 wins at 2 and 3.

ADVERTISE (c Showcasing) Sold 57,142gns yearling at DNPRM. 2 wins at 2, Keeneland Phoenix S G1, Arqana July S G2, 2nd Coventry S G2. (f Dream Ahead) (c Lethal Force)

2nd Dam: Red Tiara by Mr Prospector. Dam of RED DIADEM (f Pivotal: Daisycutter H LR). Grandam of SAAYERR, Ornate.

Broodmare Sire: PIVOTAL. Sire of the dams of 83 Stakes winners. In 2018 - ADVERTISE Showcasing G1, CRACKSMAN Frankel G1, GLORIOUS EMPIRE Holy Roman Emperor G1, MIKKI ROCKET King Kamehameha G1, OLMEDO Declaration of War G1, RHODODENDRON Galileo G1.

only 9,000gns. She is one of the many mares which Cheveley Park sent to their new stallion, Ulysses, in 2018. Although Furbelow was ordinary, this daughter of Pivotal is a sister to Red Diadem, who became a stakes winner over five furlongs in California after failing to win in Britain. Furbelow is also a threeparts-sister to the Kyllachy mare Adorn, dam of the Gr2 Richmond Stakes winner Saayerr.

Advertise’s third dam Heart Of Joy was very talented, as she showed when second to Salsabil in the 1,000 Guineas and to In The Groove in the Irish 1,000 Guineas. This daughter of Lypheor went on to do well in the US, where she added three Graded wins to her earlier Gr3 success in the Nell Gwyn Stakes. Heart Of Joy’s son Meiner Love did well in Japan, with this son of Seeking The Gold winning the Gr1 Sprinters Stakes in the days before its Gr1 status was recognised outside Japan.

ADVERTISE b c 2016 Green Desert

Danzig Foreign Courier

Hope

Dancing Brave Bahamian

Zafonic

Gone West Zaizafon

Prophecy

Warning Andaleeb

Polar Falcon

Nureyev Marie d’Argonne

Fearless Revival

Cozzene Stufida

Mr Prospector

Raise A Native Gold Digger

Heart of Joy

Lypheor Mythographer

Oasis Dream SHOWCASING b 07 Arabesque

Pivotal FURBELOW b 09 Red Tiara

Success for the progeny of a fast and precocious stallion is often repeated four years down the line and this has been the case with the 2009 Gimcrack winner Showcasing.

The son of Oasis Dream had the Group winners Toocoolforschool and Capella Sansevero among a team which helped him become the leading British-based first-crop sire of 2014. His initial success boosted his fee from £4,500 to £15,000 in 2015, and his 2016 crop promises to be his best so far, which bodes well for his later crops, sired at £25,000 and £35,000.

At 100 foals, Showcasing’s 2016 crop is the largest of his first five crops. It has already produced several stakes horses, such as Heartwarming, Life Of Riley, Model Guest and the French-trained Devant, but the most accomplished so far are Soldier’s Call, winner of the Windsor Castle Stakes at Royal Ascot, and Advertise, runner-up to Calyx in the Coventry Stakes at the same meeting.

Advertise has gone on to win the Gr2 July Stakes and the Gr1 Phoenix Stakes, giving the impression that he will be suited by seven furlongs, even though there isn’t a lot of stamina in his pedigree.

Advertise’s dam Furbelow was a modest six-furlong all-weather winner in the Cheveley Park Stud colours.

She was offered for sale a few months later but was bought back for

Oct_170_DataBook.indd 115

224 P. FRESNAY LE BUFFARD JACQUES LE MAROIS G1 DEAUVILLE. Aug 12. 3yo+c&f. 1600m.

1. ALPHA CENTAURI (IRE) 3 8-9 £505,664 gr f by Mastercraftsman - Alpha Lupi (Rahy) O-Niarchos Family B-The Niarchos Family TR-Mrs J. Harrington 2. Recoletos (FR) 4 9-5 £202,301 b c by Whipper - Highphar (Highest Honor) O-Sarl Darpat France B-Sarl Darpat France TR-C. Laffon-Parias 3. With You (GB) 3 8-9 £101,150 b f by Dansili - In Clover (Inchinor) O-Mr George Strawbridge B-G. Strawbridge TR-F. Head Margins 2.5, 3.5. Time 1:34.27. Going Good to Soft.

Age Starts Wins Places Earned 2-3 9 6 1 £1,195,978 Sire: MASTERCRAFTSMAN. Sire of 55 Stakes winners.

In 2018 - A RAVING BEAUTY High Chaparral G1, ALPHA CENTAURI Rahy G1, SAINT EMILION Pentire G1, AVAY Catienus G2, SANTA MONICA Zamindar G2, THEE AULD FLOOZIE Spinning World G2, LUVALUVA Galileo G3, MAID UP Hurricane Run G3, MASTER OF ARTS Carnegie G3, MASTER THE WORLD Zaha G3, NEUFBOSC Verglas G3, WIND CHIMES Johannesburg G3, YA PRIMO Special Quest G3.

1st Dam: Alpha Lupi by Rahy. unraced. Own sister to Helike. Dam of 4 winners:

2009: 2010: 2011: 2012: 2014: 2015:

2016: 2017:

TENTH STAR (c Dansili) 2 wins at 2 and 5 at home, USA, Golden Fleece S LR, 2nd Juddmonte Royal Lodge S G2.

ELITISTE (f Danehill Dancer) Winner at 3 in France. Broodmare.

Sellsabeel (f Galileo) unraced. Broodmare. (c Galileo) GALILEO GAL (f Galileo) 2 wins at 3 and 4 in Canada.

ALPHA CENTAURI (f Mastercraftsman) 6 wins at 2 and 3 at home, France, Coronation S G1, Tattersalls Falmouth S G1, Tattersalls Irish 1000 Guineas G1, P. Fresnay le Buffard Jacques Le Marois G1, Coolmore Stud EBF Naas Juv.Sprint S LR, 2nd Albany S G3.

Etoile Filante (f So You Think) unraced to date. (f Sea The Moon)

2nd Dam: EAST OF THE MOON by Private Account.

Champion 3yr old filly in France in 1994. 4 wins at 2 and 3 in France Dubai Poule d’Essai des Pouliches G1, Prix de Diane Hermes G1, P. Fresnay-le-Buffard Jacques Le Marois G1, 2nd Emirates Prix du Moulin de Longchamp G1. Dam of MOON DRIVER (f Mr Prospector: Prix d’Arenberg G3), Mojave Moon (c Mr Prospector: 2nd Fayette Breeders’ Cup S G3, 3rd Californian S G2), Helike (c Rahy: 2nd Grand Prix de Marseille LR), Canda (f Storm Cat: 2nd Prix Yacowlef LR, Criterium de Vitesse LR). Grandam of AUTOCRATIC, EVASIVE, IBN MALIK, Moon Prospect, Enquete. Third dam of Rabiosa Fiore.

Broodmare Sire: RAHY. Sire of the dams of 135 Stakes winners. In 2018 - ALPHA CENTAURI Mastercraftsman

G1, BEE JERSEY Jersey Town G1, NOCTURNAL FOX Farhh G2, MATERA SKY Speightstown G3, AROD Teofilo LR, MUNTAZAH Dubawi LR.

ALPHA CENTAURI gr f 2015 Danehill

Danzig Razyana

Mira Adonde

Sharpen Up Lettre d’Amour

Black Tie Affair

Miswaki Hat Tab Girl

Reves Celestes

Lyphard Tobira Celeste

Blushing Groom

Red God Runaway Bride

Glorious Song

Halo Ballade

Private Account

Damascus Numbered Account

Miesque

Nureyev Pasadoble

Danehill Dancer MASTERCRAFTSMAN gr/ro 06 Starlight Dreams

Rahy ALPHA LUPI b 04 East of The Moon

See race 45 in the July issue 225 DARLEY PRIX JEAN ROMANET G1 DEAUVILLE. Aug 19. 4yo+f. 2000m.

1. NONZA (FR) 4 9-0 £126,416 f by Zanzibari - Terra Alta (Kaldounevees) O-Mme Henri Devin B-Mme H Devin TR-H-F Devin 2. Urban Fox (GB) 4 9-0 £50,575 b f by Foxwedge - Lomapamar (Nashwan) O-Barnane Stud B-Mascalls Stud TR-William Haggas 3. Navaro Girl (IRE) 4 9-0 £25,288 b f by Holy Roman Emperor - Neele (Peintre Celebre) O-Stall Nizza B-Juergen Imm TR-P. Schiergen Margins Neck, 1.75. Time 2:06.46. Going Good.

Age Starts Wins Places Earned 3-4 7 5 2 £186,784 Sire: ZANZIBARI. Sire of 3 Stakes winners.

1st Dam: Terra Alta by Kaldounevees. ran on the flat in France at 3 and 4. Own sister to TERRE A TERRE and KACHGAI. Dam of 1 winner:

2013: 2014: 2016: 2017:

Zicavo (c Zanzibari) unraced.

NONZA (f Zanzibari) 5 wins at 3 and 4 in France, Darley Prix Jean Romanet G1, P.de la Pepiniere-Fonds Europeen Elevage LR. Terra Dina (f Doctor Dino) unraced to date.

Anahata (f Doctor Dino)

2nd Dam: TOUJOURS JUSTE by Always Fair. 1 win in France. Dam of TERRE A TERRE (f Kaldounevees: Prix de l’Opera-Casino Barriere G1, Dubai Duty Free G1, 3rd Hong Kong Cup G1), KACHGAI (g Kaldounevees: Prix Pelleas LR, 2nd Prix de Meautry- Lucien Barriere G3).

Grandam of Terra Incognita.

Broodmare Sire: KALDOUNEVEES. Sire of the dams of 12 Stakes winners. In 2018 - NONZA Zanzibari G1, MARY TUDOR Dawn Approach LR.

NONZA f 2014 Mr Prospector

Raise A Native Gold Digger

Classy ‘n Smart

Smarten No Class

Zieten

Danzig Blue Note

Amenixa

Linamix Amen

Kaldoun

Caro Katana

Safaroa

Satingo Traverse Afar

Always Fair

Danzig Carduel

Soloist

Alleged Solo Haina

Smart Strike ZANZIBARI b 07 Zinziberine

Kaldounevees TERRA ALTA b 08 Toujours Juste

Despite this admirable record, Nonza appeared to have a very difficult task in the Gr1 Prix Jean Romanet, in which the opposition included the Gr1 winners Bateel, Urban Fox and Rhododendron.

However, the 14-1 chance finished very well to wear down Urban Fox. Nonza follows the Gr3 winner Baghadur as only the second Group winner from the first five crops by Zanzibari. This Haras de Grandcamp resident began his stallion career at a fee of only €1,000 at Haras du Mesnil. An American-bred son of Smart Strike, Zanzibari earned the right to contest the Gr1 Prix Morny with his victory in the Gr3 Prix de Cabourg but he finished last of five and never raced again.

Perhaps we shouldn’t be too surprised that Nonza has become a Gr1 winner, as she was bred by Mme Henri Devin from Terra Alta, a twice-raced sister to Mme Devin’s Prix de l’Opera winner Terre A Terre, who also landed the Gr1 Dubai Duty Free. Terra Alta also had a talented brother in Kachgai. Their dam Toujours Juste was a three-year-old winner by Danzig’s very smart son Always Fair. The next dam, Soloist, cost $110,000 as a yearling but never raced. As her price indicates, she was a well-connected individual, by the excellent Alleged out of the multiple stakes winner Solo Haina.

Solo Haina produced a couple of Group-class two-year-olds, including Polished Brass, a Gr3 winner over six furlongs in the US. 226 DARLEY PRIX MORNY G1 DEAUVILLE. Aug 19. 2yoc&f. 1200m.

1. PRETTY POLLYANNA (GB) 8-10 £176,982 b f by Oasis Dream - Unex Mona Lisa (Shamardal) O-W. J. and T. C. O. Gredley B-Stetchworth & Middle Park Studs Ltd TR-Michael Bell 2. Signora Cabello (IRE) 8-10 £70,805 b f by Camacho - Journalist (Night Shift) O-Phoenix Thoroughbred and Zen Racing B-Diomed Bloodstock Ltd TR-John Quinn £35,403 3. True Mason (GB) 9-0 b c by Mayson - Marysienka (Primo Dominie) O-Mr Khalifa Dasmal B-Mr S. P. Balding TR-K. R. Burke Margins 0.75, 4. Time 1:10.24. Going Good.

Age Starts Wins Places Earned 2 4 3 0 £228,588 Sire: OASIS DREAM. Sire of 114 Stakes winners. In 2018 - POLYDREAM Green Tune G1, PRETTY POLLYANNA Shamardal G1, ERTIJAAL Seeking The Gold G2, IMAGING Dubai Destination LR, MR RITZ Contested Bid LR, MRS GALLAGHER Refuse To Bend LR. 1st Dam: Unex Mona Lisa by Shamardal. unraced. Dam of 3 winners:

2014:

With a May birthday, Nonza has been given plenty of time by her connections. Unraced at two, she made only three starts as a threeyear-old, when she made a winning debut at Chateaubriant. It wasn’t until her third start as a four-year-old that she was promoted to black-type company and she graduated in good style, winning a Listed race at Maisons-Laffitte to maintain her unbeaten record as a four-year-old.

2015: 2016:

2017: 2018:

PREOBRAJENSKA (f Paco Boy) Winner at 3.

ROULETTE (f Poet’s Voice) Winner at 2.

PRETTY POLLYANNA (f Oasis Dream) Sold 50,000gns yearling at TAOC1. 3 wins at 2 at home, France, Darley Prix Morny G1, bet365 Duchess Of Cambridge S G2. (c Nathaniel) (c New Approach)

2nd Dam: Friendlier by Zafonic. unraced. Dam of GENDER AGENDA (f Holy Roman Emperor: Robert J Frankel S G3, 3rd Goldikova S G2), Madame Defarge (f Motivator: 3rd Tweenhills Pretty Polly S LR) Broodmare Sire: SHAMARDAL. Sire of the dams of 22 Stakes winners. In 2018 - LATROBE Camelot G1, MIGHTY HIGH Pathfork G1, PRETTY POLLYANNA Oasis Dream G1, ROYAL YOUMZAIN Youmzain G3,

THOROUGHBRED OWNER & BREEDER INC PACEMAKER 115

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Data Book European Pattern ASTOR Iffraaj LR, DANCE DIVA Mayson LR, LAKE VOLTA Raven’s Pass LR, LAW POWER Lawman LR, PERFECT CLARITY Nathaniel LR. The Oasis Dream/Shamardal cross has produced: PRETTY POLLYANNA G1, Rathaath LR.

PRETTY POLLYANNA b f 2016 Danzig

Northern Dancer Pas de Nom

Foreign Courier

Sir Ivor Courtly Dee

Dancing Brave

Lyphard Navajo Princess

Bahamian

Mill Reef Sorbus

Green Desert OASIS DREAM b 00 Hope

Shamardal UNEX MONA LISA b 09

Giant’s Causeway Storm Cat Mariah’s Storm Helsinki

Machiavellian Helen Street

Zafonic

Gone West Zaizafon

Rostova

Blakeney Poppy Day

Friendlier

Oasis Dream became a Gr1 winner over six furlongs in the Middle Park Stakes on his way to becoming the champion two-year-old of 2002 and he has since enjoyed plenty of success as a sire of fast juveniles, including winners of the Coventry and Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot, the July Stakes and Cherry Hinton (Duchess of Cambridge) Stakes at Newmarket’s July meeting, as well as three winners of the Gimcrack, one of the Middle Park and now two of the Prix Morny. There have also been successes in the National Stakes and the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere over seven furlongs.

His second success in the Morny came via the English-trained filly Pretty Pollyanna, who had earlier become her sire’s second winner of the Cherry Hinton/Duchess of Cambridge. Pretty Pollyanna had to work much harder to land the Morny, in which she pulled clear with Signora Cabello, winner of the Queen Mary Stakes and Prix Robert Papin.

In addition to having a champion two-year-old as her sire, Pretty Pollyanna has unbeaten champion juveniles as the sires of her first two dams. Her dam, the unraced Unex Mona Lisa, is by the 2004 champion Shamardal, while second dam Friendlier is an unraced daughter of the 1992 champion Zafonic. Both of these unraced mares have thoroughly justified the Gredley family’s decision to retain them.

Friendlier was no doubt retained largely because she is a half-sister to User Friendly, who was sold after she had carried Bill Gredley’s colours to victory in the Oaks, Yorkshire Oaks, St Leger and Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud, in addition to finishing second in the Arc. Friendlier’s best effort as a broodmare is her Holy Roman Emperor filly Gender Agenda, who became a Gr3 winner in California.

Oasis Dream would be comfortably the best stallion that Unex Mona Lisa visited in her first three years, her previous winners being daughters of Paco Boy and Poet’s Voice. Her owners have changed direction subsequently, sending Unex Mona Lisa to Nathaniel and New Approach, with each mating resulting in a colt.

Oasis Dream has only four foals of racing age out of Shamardal mares,

with Pretty Pollyanna being the best of his three winners from three runners.

However, Shamardal has 15 foals out of Oasis Dream mares and they include the Gr3 winner Alrahma and the Listed winner Mistrusting.

227 JUDDMONTE INTERNATIONAL STAKES G1

Margins 2.25, 1. Time 2:30.40. Going Good to Firm.

2004: 2005:

Sire: SEA THE STARS. Sire of 47 Stakes winners. In 2018 - SEA OF CLASS Hernando G1, STRADIVARIUS Bering G1, CRYSTAL OCEAN Mark of Esteem G2, KNIGHT TO BEHOLD Sadler’s Wells G2, NIGHT MUSIC Monsun G2, LISTEN IN Inchinor LR.

2007: 2009: 2011:

1st Dam: HOLY MOON by Hernando. 5 wins at 3 and 4 in Italy, Premio EBF Terme di Merano LR. Dam of 9 winners:

2006:

YORK. Aug 22. 3yo+. 10f.

1. ROARING LION (USA) 3 8-13 £602,544 gr/ro c by Kitten’s Joy - Vionnet (Street Sense) O-Qatar Racing Limited B-RanJan Racing Inc TR-John Gosden 2. Poet’s Word (IRE) 5 9-6 £228,438 b h by Poet’s Voice - Whirly Bird (Nashwan) O-Mr Saeed Suhail B-Woodcote Stud Ltd TR-Sir Michael Stoute 3. Thundering Blue (USA) 5 9-6 £114,325 gr g by Exchange Rate - Relampago Azul (Forestry) O-Mr Clive Washbourn B-Dr T. Castoldi TR-David Menuisier Margins 3.25, 0.5. Time 2:07.70. Going Good to Firm.

2008: 2009:

2010: 2011:

Age Starts Wins Places Earned 2-3 10 6 3 £1,437,626 Sire: KITTEN’S JOY. Sire of 66 Stakes winners. In 2018 - HAWKBILL Giant’s Causeway G1, ROARING LION Street Sense G1, CATAPULT Storm Cat G2, SADLER’S JOY Dynaformer G2, DIVISIDERO Lemon Drop Kid G3, OSCAR NOMINATED Theatrical G3, OSCAR PERFORMANCE Theatrical G3, KUWAIT CURRENCY Smart Strike LR, SNIPER KITTEN Catienus LR.

2012:

1st Dam: Vionnet by Street Sense. 3 wins at 3 and 4 in USA, 2nd Sweet Life S, China Doll S, 3rd Rodeo Drive S G1. Dam of 1 winner:

2015:

2015:

2016:

ROARING LION (c Kitten’s Joy). 6 wins at 2 and 3, Juddmonte International S G1, Coral Eclipse S G1, Betfred Dante S G2, Juddmonte Royal Lodge S G2, 2nd Racing Post Trophy S G1, 3rd Investec Derby S G1, bet365 Craven S G3. (c Medaglia d’Oro)

2nd Dam: CAMBIOCORSA by Avenue of Flags. 9 wins at 3 and 4 in USA Las Cienegas H G3, Senator Ken Maddy H G3. Own sister to CALIFORNIA FLAG. Dam of SCHIAPARELLI (f Ghostzapper: Royal Heroine Mile S G2), MOULIN DE MOUGIN (f Curlin: John C Mabee S G2), ALEXIS TANGIER (f Tiznow: Unzip me S, Swingtime S), BRONSON (c Medaglia d’Oro: English Channel S, 3rd Louisville H G3), Vionnet (f Street Sense, see above) Broodmare Sire: STREET SENSE. Sire of the dams of 3 Stakes winners. In 2018 - ROARING LION Kitten’s Joy G1, VALOUR ROAD Frost Giant G2, SPEED FRANCO Declaration of War G3.

2013: 2014:

2017: 2018:

MOONEY RIDGE (f Indian Ridge) 2 wins at 3 and 4 in Italy. Dam of Troublemaker (c Vita Rosa: 4 wins at 3 and 4 in Italy, 2nd Premio St Leger Italiano G3) HOLY BALLET (c Shamardal) 16 wins at 3 to 8 in Italy.

CHERRY COLLECT (f Oratorio) Champion 3yr old filly in Italy in 2012. 8 wins at 2 and 3 in Italy, Oaks d’Italia Trofeo Snai G2, 2nd Premio Lydia Tesio Longines Tris Int G1.

Broodmare.

CHARITY LINE (f Manduro). 6 wins at 2 and 3 in Italy, Premio Lydia Tesio Longines Tris Int G1. Broodmare.

FINAL SCORE (f Dylan Thomas) Champion 3yr old filly in Italy in 2014. 5 wins at 2 and 3 in Italy, Premio Lydia Tesio Longines Tris Str G1. Broodmare.

WORDLESS (f Rock of Gibraltar) 6 wins at 2 to 4 in Italy, Premio Verziere - Memorial Aldo Cirla G3. Broodmare.

Magic Mystery (c Pour Moi) 3 wins at 3 and 4 in France, Italy, 3rd Premio Emanuele Filiberto LR. Back On Board (c Nathaniel) 2 wins at 3 in Italy, 2nd Derby Italiano Sisal Matchpoint G2.

SEA OF CLASS (f Sea The Stars) Sold 170,000gns yearling at TADEY. 4 wins at 3, Darley Irish Oaks G1, Darley Yorkshire Oaks G1, Haras de Bouquetot Fillies’ Trial S LR, Johnnie Lewis Memorial Abingdon S LR. Honor And Pleasure (c Oasis Dream) (c Golden Horn)

2nd Dam: Centinela by Caerleon. ran a few times at 2 and 3. Dam of HOLY MOON (f Hernando, see above) Broodmare Sire: HERNANDO. Sire of the dams of 43 Stakes winners. In 2018 - SEA OF CLASS Sea The Stars G1, PILASTER Nathaniel G2, APPELINA Appel Au Maitre LR, CASHMAN Soldier of Fortune LR. The Sea The Stars/Hernando cross has produced: SEA OF CLASS G1, St Michel G2.

SEA OF CLASS ch f 2015

Sadler’s Wells El Prado Lady Capulet KITTEN’S JOY ch 01

VIONNET gr/ro 09

Northern Dancer Fairy Bridge Sir Ivor Cap And Bells Roberto Wac

That’s My Hon

L’Enjoleur One Lane

Street Cry

Machiavellian Helen Street

Bedazzle

Dixieland Band Majestic Legend

Avenue of Flags

Seattle Slew Beautiful Glass

Ultrafleet

Afleet Social Conduct

Street Sense

Cambiocorsa

Danzig Foreign Courier

Park Appeal

Ahonoora Balidaress

Miswaki

Mr Prospector Hopespringseternal

Allegretta

Lombard Anatevka

Niniski

Nijinsky Virginia Hills

Whakilyric

Miswaki Lyrism

Caerleon

Nijinsky Foreseer

New Generation

Young Generation Madina

Urban Sea

Lear Fan

Kitten’s First

Green Desert Cape Cross SEA THE STARS b 06

ROARING LION gr/ro c 2015

See race 165 in the September issue 228 DARLEY YORKSHIRE OAKS G1 YORK. Aug 23. 3yo+f. 12f.

1. SEA OF CLASS (IRE) 3 8-12 £198,485 ch f by Sea The Stars - Holy Moon (Hernando) O-Sunderland Holding Inc. B-Razza Del Velino TR-William Haggas 2. Coronet (GB) 4 9-7 £75,250 gr f by Dubawi - Approach (Darshaan) O-Denford Stud B-Denford Stud Ltd TR-John Gosden 3. Eziyra (IRE) 4 9-7 £37,660 ch f by Teofilo - Eytarna (Dubai Destination) O-H.H. Aga Khan B-His Highness the Aga Khan’s Studs S.C. TR-D. K. Weld

1st Dam: Easy To Imagine by Cozzene. unraced. Dam of 6 winners:

Age Starts Wins Places Earned 3 5 4 1 £470,231

Hernando HOLY MOON b 00 Centinela

See race 171 in the September issue 229 COOLMORE NUNTHORPE STAKES G1 YORK. Aug 24. 2yo+. 5f.

1. ALPHA DELPHINI (GB) 7 9-11 £198,485 b g by Captain Gerrard - Easy To Imagine (Cozzene) O-The Alpha Delphini Partnership B-Mrs B. A. Matthews TR-Bryan Smart 2. Mabs Cross (GB) 4 9-8 £75,250 b f by Dutch Art - Miss Meggy (Pivotal) O-Mr David W. Armstrong B-Highfield Farm LLP TR-Michael Dods 3. Blue Point (IRE) 4 9-11 £37,660 b c by Shamardal - Scarlett Rose (Royal Applause) O-Godolphin B-Oak Lodge Bloodstock TR-Charlie Appleby Margins Nose, 2.25. Time 0:57.10. Going Good to Firm.

Age Starts Wins Places Earned 3-7 26 8 9 £366,666 Sire: CAPTAIN GERRARD. Sire of 1 Stakes winner.

2012: 2015: 2016:

MASAI MOON (g Lujain) 8 wins.

TANGERINE TREES (g Mind Games) 15 wins at home, France, Qatar Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp G1.

GALATIAN (g Traditionally) 5 wins. (c Byron) ALPHA DELPHINI (g Captain Gerrard) Sold 20,000gns yearling at TAOC2. 8 wins at 4 to 7, 2018, Coolmore Nunthorpe S G1, Totescoop6 Beverley Bullet Sprint S LR, 2nd Dubai International Airport World Trophy G3, Betway Achilles S LR, John Smith’s City Walls S LR, 3rd Armstrong Aggregates Temple S G2, Longholes Palace House S G3.

Ambiguous (f Kheleyf) unraced. Broodmare.

FAIRY FALCON (f Sepoy) Winner at 3.

KURIOUS (f Kuroshio) Winner at 2.

2nd Dam: Zarani Sidi Anna by Danzig. 4 wins, 2nd Shadwell Stud Nell Gwyn S G3, 3rd Coronation S G1, 3rd Milady H G1. Dam of Base Commander (c Officer: 2nd Kentucky Cup Sprint S G3) Broodmare Sire: COZZENE. Sire of the dams of 68 Stakes winners. In 2018 - ALPHA DELPHINI Captain Gerrard G1, PAVED Quality Road G2, AFRICAN NIGHT SKY Dynasty G3, HADDAF Dawn Approach LR.

ALPHA DELPHINI b g 2011 Green Desert

Danzig Foreign Courier

Hope

Dancing Brave Bahamian

Soviet Star

Nureyev Veruschka

Scimitarra

Kris Fanghorn

Caro

Fortino II Chambord

Ride The Trails

Prince John Wildwook

Danzig

Northern Dancer Pas de Nom

Emmaline

Affirmed Sunday Purchase

Oasis Dream CAPTAIN GERRARD b 05 Delphinus

Cozzene EASY TO IMAGINE b 00 Zarani Sidi Anna

Showcasing wasn’t the only Britishbased son of Oasis Dream to enjoy Gr1 success in August. However, whereas Showcasing’s son Advertise was a hot favourite to win the Phoenix Stakes, Captain Gerrard’s son Alpha Delphini started at 40-1 for the Nunthorpe Stakes, which he won by the narrowest margin from Mabs Cross.

Captain Gerrard was one of the first good winners to represent Oasis Dream. A busy juvenile career yielded five wins from ten starts, with his best win coming in the Gr3 Cornwallis Stakes on his tenth start. A win in the Gr3 Palace House Stakes on his reappearance at three suggested that Captain Gerrard was going to graduate into a very smart sprinter.

Unfortunately he failed to progress and he made 16 further starts without managing to win again. Consequently he has been plying his trade as a stallion at fees no higher than £4,000 at Mickley Stud and Alpha Delphini is comfortably his best representative.

This seven-year-old gelding has now won eight of his 26 starts, with the Nunthorpe being only his second black-type success. Remarkably, Alpha Delphini is the second Gr1-winning sprinter produced by the unraced Easy To Imagine, an American-bred daughter of Cozzene. His predecessor was Mind Games’ late-developing son Tangerine Trees, whose finest hour came when he landed the Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp at odds of nearly 20-1 as a six-year-old in 2011.

Each of these fast geldings was the only Gr1 winner by his sire.

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CAULFIELD ON PRETTY POLLYANNA: “In addition to having a champion two-year-old as her sire, she has unbeaten champion juveniles as the sires of her first two dams, namely Shamardal and Zafonic” Easy To Imagine was sold for only 5,200gns at Doncaster as an unraced two-year-old and was covered for the first time at three. However, she was a daughter of Zarani Sidi Anna, who once started favourite for the Irish 1,000 Guineas and contested a string of top races, including the Coronation Stakes (a creditable third) and Prix de l’Abbaye (a respectable sixth). This daughter of Danzig had cost $450,000 as a yearling, her price reflecting the fact that her dam Emmaline was a stakeswinning half-sister to the American Gr1 winners Bates Motel (Santa Anita Handicap) and Hatim.

Zarani Sidi Anna was initially given every chance as a broodmare, visiting the likes of Gone West, Gulch, Silver Hawk, Cozzene and Woodman, but the nearest she came to producing a stakes winner was when her Officer colt Base Commander was second in the Gr3 Kentucky Cup Sprint.

230 LONGINES GROSSER PREIS VON BADEN G1 BADEN-BADEN. Sep 2. 3yo+. 2400m.

1. BEST SOLUTION (IRE) 4 9-6 £132,743 b c by Kodiac - Al Andalyya (Kingmambo) O-Godolphin B-C. & M. McCracken TR-Saeed bin Suroor 2. Defoe (IRE) 4 9-6 £53,097 gr c by Dalakhani - Dulkashe (Pivotal) O-Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum B-Darley

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Stud Management Company Ltd TR-Roger Varian 3. Iquitos (GER) 6 9-6 £22,124 b h by Adlerflug - Irika (Areion) O-Stall Mulligan B-Frau Dr Erika Buhmann TR-H-J Groschel Margins Neck, 0.5. Time 2:37.38. Going Good to Soft.

Age Starts Wins Places Earned 2-4 21 8 7 £722,282 Sire: KODIAC. Sire of 45 Stakes winners. In 2018 - BEST SOLUTION Kingmambo G1, FAIRYLAND Pivotal G2, TRUE VALOUR Acclamation G3, ADORABLE Seattle Dancer LR, BROTHER BEAR Mr Greeley LR, CALL ME HANDSOME Gone West LR, EURO NIGHTMARE Key of Luck LR, NEVER BACK DOWN Pivotal LR, SECOND THOUGHT Diktat LR, SPORTING CHANCE Giant’s Causeway LR. 1st Dam: Al Andalyya by Kingmambo. Dam of 1 winner:

2013: 2014:

2015: 2017: 2018:

Socks And Shares (g Elnadim) ran 3 times.

BEST SOLUTION (c Kodiac) Sold 90,000gns yearling at TAOC2. 8 wins at 2 to 4 at home, Germany, UAE, Longines Grosser Preis von Baden G1, Longines Grosser Preis von Berlin G1, Arqana Princess of Wales’s S G2, Worthington’s St Simon S G3, Dubai 100 Autumn S G3, Betfred Derby Trial S LR, 2nd Criterium de Saint-Cloud G1, Grosser Dallmayr Bayerisches Zuchtrennen G1, 3rd International Trakya Trophy LR. Desert Mountain (g Epaulette) in training. (f Gutaifan) (c Kodiac)

2nd Dam: Kushnarenkovo by Sadler’s Wells. 1 win at 3, 2nd Kerry Group EBF Noblesse S G3. Own sister to BRIAN BORU and KITTY O’SHEA. Dam of KOSMISCHE (f Fastnet Rock: Preis Medienhauses Winterkonigin Trial LR), Cape Clear Island (c Fastnet Rock: 2nd bet365 Classic Trial G3, 2nd Prix Hocquart G2), Squire Osbaldeston (c Mr Greeley: 3rd BetVictor Magnolia S LR) Broodmare Sire: KINGMAMBO. Sire of the dams of 128 Stakes winners. In 2018 - BEST SOLUTION Kodiac G1, ADDEYBB Pivotal G2, CROSS COUNTER Teofilo G3,

HAMADA Cape Cross G3, TEXTING Candy Ride G3, WITCHCRAFT Kahal G3.

BEST SOLUTION b c 2014 Danzig

Northern Dancer Pas de Nom

Razyana

His Majesty Spring Adieu

Kris

Sharpen Up Doubly Sure

Eljazzi

Artaius Border Bounty

Mr Prospector

Raise A Native Gold Digger

Miesque

Nureyev Pasadoble

Sadler’s Wells

Northern Dancer Fairy Bridge

Eva Luna

Alleged Media Luna

Danehill KODIAC b 01 Rafha

Kingmambo AL ANDALYYA ch 08 Kushnarenkovo

Kodiac’s reputation has been solidly based on the quality and quantity of his two-year-old winners, such as Tiggy Wiggy, Besharah, Ardad and Prince Of Lir. However, we witnessed another dimension to his talents when his tough son Best Solution won the Gr1 Grosser Preis von Berlin and the Grosser Preis von Baden over a mile and a half.

When the two-year-old Best Solution broke his maiden at Goodwood, he appeared to be a fairly typical Kodiac, as his victory came over six furlongs, but he quickly showed that he is atypical. By the end of October he had won the Gr3 Autumn Stakes over a mile and finished second in the Gr1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud over a mile and a quarter.

Best Solution has since won three Group races over 12f.

His dam Al Andalyya didn’t show much ability despite being a representative of the celebrated Kingmambo-Sadler’s Wells nick, which also produced the top-notch 12-furlong performer El Condor Pasa and the multiple mile-and-a-half Gr1 winner Campanologist, as well as the Prix de Diane winner Divine Proportions.

Best Solution’s second dam, the Group-placed Sadler’s Wells mare Kushnarenkovo, is a sister to Brian Boru, winner of the 2003 St Leger.

Brian Boru and Kushnarenkovo were among six siblings bred by Juddmonte Farms as part of a foal share. Coolmore took four of the six siblings but Juddmonte retained Soviet Moon, an unraced filly who was to produce the Derby and Arc-winning Workforce to Kingmambo’s son King’s Best.

Eva Luna, Best Solution’s third dam, won the Gr3 Park Hill Stakes and her foals also included Sea Moon, winner of the Gr2 Great Voltigeur. Her dam, Media Luna, failed by only a neck to win the 1984 Oaks. Eva Luna’s half-sister, Medicosma, is the second dam of 2015 Oaks winner Qualify, sired by champion Australian sprinter Fastnet Rock from a grand-daughter of Sadler’s Wells.

Fastnet Rock, of course, shares the same sire – Danehill – as Kodiac.

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Data Book Group 2 and 3 Results Date 03/08 03/08 03/08 03/08 04/08 05/08 05/08 09/08 11/08 11/08 11/08 12/08 12/08 15/08 15/08 15/08 16/08 16/08 18/08 18/08 18/08 18/08 19/08 19/08 21/08 22/08 22/08 23/08 24/08 24/08 25/08 25/08 25/08 25/08 25/08 25/08 25/08 25/08 26/08 26/08 26/08 26/08 26/08 26/08 26/08 26/08 30/08 30/08 01/09 01/09 01/09 01/09 01/09 01/09 01/09 02/09 02/09 02/09

Grade G2 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G2 G3 G3 G3 G3 G2 G2 G2 G3 G2 G2 G3 G2 G3 G2 G2 G2 G2 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G2 G2 G2 G2 G3 G3 G3 G3 G2 G3 G2 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3 G3

Race (course) Qatar King George Stakes (Goodwood) Bombay Sapphire Glorious Stakes (Goodwood) Bonhams Thoroughbred Stakes (Goodwood) L’Ormarins Queens Plate Oak Tree Stakes (Goodwood) Qatar Gordon Stakes (Goodwood) P. Valparaiso Sporting Club Prix de Reux (Deauville) Fritz Henkel Stiftung Rennen (Dusseldorf) GRENKE Finance Ballyroan Stakes (Leopardstown) Irish Stall.Farms EBF Give Thanks Stakes (Cork) Smarkets Rose of Lancaster Stakes (Haydock Park) germantb.com Sweet Solera Stakes (Newmarket) Qatar Racing Phoenix Sprint Stakes (Curragh) Prix Minerve (Deauville) Prix Guillaume d’Ornano-Logis St Germain (Deauville) Prix Gontaut-Biron-Hong Kong Jockey Club (Deauville) Prix de Lieurey (Deauville) Invesco Desmond Stakes (Leopardstown) Tattersalls Sovereign Stakes (Salisbury) Shadwell Prix de la Nonette (Deauville) Shadwell Prix du Calvados (Deauville) Ladyswood Stud Hungerford Stakes (Newbury) Irish TB Marketing Geoffrey Freer Stakes (Newbury) Darley Prix Kergorlay (Deauville) Darley Prix de Pomone (Deauville) P. Daphnis Royal Palm Beachcomber Luxury (Deauville) Sky Bet Great Voltigeur Stakes (York) Tattersalls Acomb Stakes (York) Sky Bet Lowther Stakes (York) Al Basti Equiworld Gimcrack Stakes (York) Weatherbys Hamilton Lonsdale Cup Stakes (York) Ladbrokes Celebration Mile Stakes (Goodwood) Preis der Sparkassen Finanzgruppe (Baden-Baden) Comer Ballycullen St Leger Trial Stakes (Curragh) Ladbrokes John Dunlop March Stakes (Goodwood) Ladbrokes Prestige Stakes (Goodwood) Dom & Geri Banners Winter Hill Stakes (Windsor) Sky Bet City of York Stakes (York) Sky Bet and Symphony Strensall Stakes (York) Casino Baden Baden Goldene Peitsche (Baden-Baden) Debutante Stakes (Curragh) Galileo Irish EBF Futurity Stakes (Curragh) Lucien Barriere Grand Prix de Deauville (Deauville) Manguard Plus Royal Whip Stakes (Curragh) Prix Quincey Barriere (Deauville) Prix de Meautry - Barriere (Deauville) Weatherbys Supreme Stakes (Goodwood) Darley Oettingen Rennen (Baden-Baden) Coolmore Stud Fairy Bridge Stakes (Tipperary) T von Zastrow Stutenpreis (Baden-Baden) Prix d’Arenberg (Chantilly) Flame of Tara EBF Stakes (Curragh) John Sisk & Son Round Tower Stakes (Curragh) Snow Fairy Stakes (Curragh) 188Bet Casino Atalanta Stakes (Sandown Park) 188Bet Solario Stakes (Sandown Park) Wackenhut Mercedes Benz- Zukunfts Rennen (Baden-Baden) Prix La Rochette (Parislongchamp) Prix de Lutece (Parislongchamp)

Dist 5f 12f 8f 7f 12f 12.5f 12f 12f 12f 10f 7f 6f 12.5f 10f 10f 8f 8f 8f 10f 7f 7f 13f 15f 12.5f 8f 12f 7f 6f 6f 16f 8f 10f 14f 14f 7f 10f 7f 9f 6f 7f 7f 12.5f 10f 8f 6f 7f 8f 7f 12f 5f 8f 6f 9f 8f 7f 7f 7f 15f

Horse Battaash (IRE) Mirage Dancer (GB) Regal Reality (GB) Pretty Baby (IRE) Cross Counter (GB) Finche (GB) Destino (GER) Eziyra (IRE) Sizzling (IRE) Teodoro (IRE) Main Edition (IRE) Speak In Colours (GB) Worth Waiting (GB) Knight To Behold (IRE) Talismanic (GB) Wind Chimes (GB) Pincheck (IRE) Plumatic (GB) Castellar (FR) Beyond Reason (IRE) Sir Dancealot (IRE) Hamada (GB) Holdthasigreen (FR) Kitesurf (GB) Glorious Journey (GB) Old Persian (GB) Phoenix of Spain (IRE) Fairyland (IRE) Emaraaty Ana (GB) Stradivarius (IRE) Beat The Bank (GB) Wai Key Star (GER) Flag of Honour (IRE) Maid Up (GB) Antonia de Vega (IRE) Fabricate (GB) Expert Eye (GB) Lord Glitters (FR) Raven’s Lady (GB) Skitter Scatter (USA) Anthony Van Dyck (IRE) Loxley (IRE) Beautiful Morning (GB) Graphite (FR) Tantheem (GB) Anna Nerium (GB) Ancient Spirit (GER) One Master (GB) Sky Full of Stars (GER) Soldier’s Call (GB) Just Wonderful (USA) Ten Sovereigns (IRE) I’m So Fancy (IRE) Veracious (GB) Too Darn Hot (GB) Quest The Moon (GER) The Black Album (FR) Jackfinbar (FR)

Age 4 4 3 3 3 4 3 4 3 4 2 3 3 3 5 3 4 4 3 2 4 4 6 4 3 3 2 2 2 4 4 5 3 3 2 6 3 5 4 2 2 3 5 4 3 3 3 4 4 2 2 2 4 3 2 2 2 3

Sex G C C F G C C F F G F C F C H F G C F F G G G F C C C F C C G H C F F G C G F F C C M G F F C F F C F C F F C C C C

Sire Dark Angel Frankel Intello Orpen Teofilo Frankel Soldier Hollow Teofilo Galileo Teofilo Zoffany Excelebration Bated Breath Sea The Stars Medaglia d’Oro Mastercraftsman Invincible Spirit Dubawi American Post Australia Sir Prancealot Cape Cross Hold That Tiger Dubawi Dubawi Dubawi Lope de Vega Kodiac Shamardal Sea The Stars Paco Boy Soldier Hollow Galileo Mastercraftsman Lope de Vega Makfi Acclamation Whipper Raven’s Pass Scat Daddy Galileo New Approach Galileo Shamardal Teofilo Dubawi Invincible Spirit Fastnet Rock Kendargent Showcasing Dansili No Nay Never Rajj Frankel Dubawi Sea The Moon Wootton Bassett Whipper

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Broodmare Sire Lawman Green Desert Medicean Gold Away Kingmambo Woodman Platini Dubai Destination Smart Strike Rock Of Gibraltar Woodman Verglas Sadler’s Wells Sadler’s Wells Machiavellian Johannesburg Arch Anabaa Highest Honor Azamour Danehill Dancer Kingmambo Muhtathir Danehill Dancer Dansili Singspiel Key of Luck Pivotal Cape Cross Bering Diktat Danehill Warning Hurricane Run Duke Of Marmalade Sadler’s Wells Dansili Homme de Loi Pivotal Street Cry Exceed And Excel Nayef George Washington Linamix Dubawi Old Vic Galileo Pivotal Samum Iceman Montjeu Exceed And Excel King’s Best Pivotal Singspiel Rock Of Gibraltar Trade Fair Slip Anchor

Index 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250 251 252 253 254 255 256 257 258 259 260 261 262 263 264 265 266 267 268 269 270 271 272 273 274 275 276 277 278 279 280 281 282 283 284 285 286 287 288

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J h J h t John Johnstone MRICS

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Tel +33 2 33 83 58 73 debra@harasdlariviere.com www.harasdlariviere.com Come and meet us at Arqana October

Dam Anna Law Heat Haze Regal Realm Premiere Danseuse Waitress Binche Divya Eytarna Weekend Strike Altesse Imperiale Maine Lobster Maglietta Fina Salutare Angel Ot The Gwaun Magic Mission Militante Arty Crafty Plumania Highphar No Explaining Majesty’s Dancer Sahraah Greentathir Shimmering Surf Fallen For You Indian Petal Lucky Clio Queenofthefairies Spirit of Dubai Private Life Tiana Wakytara Hawala Complexion Witches Brew Flight Of Fancy Exemplify Lady Glitters Pivotal Lady Dane Street Believe’n’succeed Lady Marian Date With Destiny Fairly Grey Riqa Anna Oleanda Assisi Enticing Sworn Mum Dijarvo Wading Seeking Solace Royal Jelly Infallible Dar Re Mi Questabella Model Black Anna Simona

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EXCLUSIVE STALLION STATISTICS

Leading sires of two-year-olds 2018 by earnings Name YOF Sire Rnrs Wnrs Wns/Rns (%) Wins AvgDist Earnings (£) Top Horse Earned (£) SWnrs SWs/Rnrs 2001 Danehill 98 39 39.80 54 5.7 849,933 Fairyland 178,688 2 2.04 Kodiac *No Nay Never 2011 Scat Daddy 39 19 48.72 24 6.1 579,088 Land Force 182,563 3 7.69 Johannesburg 24 13 54.17 20 6.2 559,942 Skitter Scatter 118,393 4 16.67 Scat Daddy 2004 Showcasing 2007 Oasis Dream 36 12 33.33 17 5.8 490,423 Advertise 211,561 2 5.56 Oasis Dream 2000 Green Desert 30 14 46.67 19 5.9 440,877 Pretty Pollyanna 231,097 1 3.33 Danehill 53 15 28.30 19 5.8 412,498 Signora Cabello 234,629 1 1.89 Camacho 2002 Galileo 1998 Sadler’s Wells 36 11 30.56 15 7.4 362,873 Anthony Van Dyck 109,270 2 5.56 2008 Dansili 59 16 27.12 22 6.6 343,507 Main Edition 90,650 4 6.78 Zoffany Dandy Man 2003 Mozart 74 20 27.03 24 6 337,326 Comedy 43,178 1 1.35 Lope de Vega 2007 Shamardal 40 11 27.50 16 6.6 305,653 Phoenix of Spain 60,943 3 7.5 1998 Pivotal 32 10 31.25 14 5.9 302,397 Red Balloons 158,561 0 0 Kyllachy Society Rock 2007 Rock Of Gibraltar 44 16 36.36 26 5.8 298,849 The Mackem Bullet 60,794 1 2.27 2010 Tamayuz 25 12 48.00 18 6.1 280,779 Ginger Nut 181,527 0 0 Sir Prancealot Siyouni 2007 Pivotal 40 14 35.00 19 6.1 273,908 Singing Tower 27,768 0 0 Kaneko 2001 Pivotal 33 15 45.45 27 5.7 272,702 Ogey 45,127 0 0 Green Desert 34 12 35.29 17 6 271,314 Indigo Balance 43,797 1 2.94 Invincible Spirit 1997 Dream Ahead 2008 Diktat 34 6 17.65 11 5.9 268,053 Dark Vision 128,040 1 2.94 *Bungle Inthejungle 2010 Exceed And Excel 48 21 43.75 24 5.5 262,286 Rumble Inthejungle 53,004 2 4.17 Dark Angel 2005 Acclamation 75 16 21.33 17 5.9 253,194 Angel’s Hideaway 56,001 1 1.33 *Charm Spirit 2011 Invincible Spirit 49 15 30.61 21 5.8 243,591 Yourtimeisnow 34,375 1 2.04 Footstepsinthesand 2002 Giant’s Causeway 34 12 35.29 15 6 226,629 Marie’s Diamond 112,781 1 2.94 *Kingman 2011 Invincible Spirit 31 9 29.03 11 6.4 219,490 Calyx 90,240 2 6.45 Royal Applause 22 6 27.27 9 5.7 207,261 Alfie Solomons 72,504 1 4.55 Acclamation 1999 Mayson 2008 Invincible Spirit 32 9 28.13 10 5.5 193,110 True Mason £52,952 0 0 Exceed And Excel 2000 Danehill 29 10 34.48 16 5.9 192,879 Queen of Bermuda 56,459 2 6.9 Giant’s Causeway 17 5 29.41 7 6 189,336 Emaraaty Ana 135,129 1 5.88 Shamardal 2002 *Australia 2011 Galileo 26 8 30.77 11 7 183,455 Beyond Reason 112,295 1 3.85 2002 Dubai Millennium 19 6 31.58 9 7.1 176,960 Al Hilalee 62,511 3 15.79 Dubawi *Slade Power 2009 Dutch Art 42 9 21.43 12 5.7 176,626 Princess Power 56,383 0 0 Pedro The Great 2010 Henrythenavigator 14 7 50.00 10 5.8 176,109 Lagrandecatherine 42,918 0 0 Kyllachy 33 10 30.30 14 6.5 162,232 Chicas Amigas 32,339 0 0 Dragon Pulse 2009 Rajsaman 2007 Linamix 37 9 24.32 12 6.5 160,231 Winman in Grey 38,515 0 0 *Toronado 2010 High Chaparral 31 9 29.03 10 6.3 159,997 Watan 38,598 0 0 Excelebration 2008 Exceed And Excel 25 9 36.00 12 6.2 158,509 Celebrity Dancer 26,363 0 0 *Olympic Glory 2010 Choisir 32 10 31.25 11 6.7 156,944 Glorious Spirit 25,734 0 0 Wootton Bassett 2008 Iffraaj 12 3 25.00 6 5.7 152,579 The Black Album 66,980 1 8.33 Zebedee 2008 Invincible Spirit 54 10 18.52 11 6 150,839 Barbill 30,686 0 0 *War Command 2011 War Front 37 11 29.73 15 6.4 144,420 Victory Command 39,985 1 2.7 George Vancouver 2010 Henrythenavigator 15 6 40.00 8 6 144,116 Mister Vancouver 40,499 0 0 Poet’s Voice 2007 Dubawi 38 7 18.42 10 6.3 142,999 Commanding Officer 46,415 0 0 *Anodin 2010 Anabaa 28 10 35.71 12 6.6 142,885 Harmless 44,946 1 3.57 Iffraaj 2001 Zafonic 38 7 18.42 8 6.5 142,790 Confiding 31,687 0 0 Kheleyf 2001 Green Desert 16 5 31.25 6 5.5 138,112 Simply Striking 35,335 0 0

Fairyland’s Lowther victory boosts Kodiac Kodiac continues to dominate the table, having added a remarkable 11 winners and increased his lead in earnings from £80,404 to £270,845. This boost comes largely thanks to Fairyland’s narrow success in the Lowther Stakes, worth £127,597. Kodiac is not quite so far ahead in number of runners as he was since Dark Angel had 19 newcomers during the month.

Showcasing’s tally has increased by three and his earnings have jumped by more than £200,000 on account of Advertise’s victory in the Phoenix Stakes, the first Group 1 success for a two-year-old by a sire whose progeny show more speed than stamina as a matter of course.

Among non-first season sires in the leading 20, Zoffany had another seven winners while Camacho, Dandy Man, Dark Angel, Galileo and Siyouni had five apiece. Scat Daddy was among those adding four.

Numerically, the first-season sires battle is fascinating – No Nay Never looks to have it buttoned up in earnings. The latter added four winners but Bungle Inthejungle is now two clear of him after taking his score from 16 to 21.

Charm Spirit is now on 15 from 11 and Kingman increased his total from five to nine.

Leading sires 2018 by % of stakes winners to runners Name YOF Sire Rnrs Wnrs Wns/Rns (%) Wins AvgDist Earnings (£) SHs SHsRnrs SWnrs SWsRnrs Scat Daddy 2004 Johannesburg 51 25 49.02 33 6.7 818,471 10 19.61 7 13.73 Dubawi 2002 Dubai Millennium 164 75 45.73 119 9.3 3,598,827 24 14.63 20 12.20 Galileo 1998 Sadler’s Wells 216 83 38.43 111 10.6 5,066,274 42 19.44 24 11.11 Frankel 2008 Galileo 105 61 58.10 84 9.8 3,272,894 25 23.81 11 10.48 War Front 2002 Danzig 59 27 45.76 37 7 1,361,425 12 20.34 5 8.47 Teofilo 2004 Galileo 173 68 39.31 91 10.3 1,926,689 16 9.25 12 6.94 Falco 2005 Pivotal 46 18 39.13 31 9.8 682,182 4 8.7 3 6.52 Redoute’s Choice 1996 Danehill 63 30 47.62 43 9.7 647,422 6 9.52 4 6.35 Intello 2010 Galileo 80 32 40.00 48 9.7 1,287,416 10 12.5 5 6.25 Farhh 2008 Pivotal 32 14 43.75 23 9.7 802,271 4 12.5 2 6.25 Invincible Spirit 1997 Green Desert 232 102 43.97 155 7.1 2,773,491 25 10.78 14 6.03 Fastnet Rock 2001 Danehill 103 51 49.51 72 9.9 1,560,717 11 10.68 6 5.83 Camelot 2009 Montjeu 129 59 45.74 77 9.9 2,143,905 15 11.63 7 5.43 Whipper 2001 Miesque’s Son 77 28 36.36 40 9.5 1,414,905 4 5.19 4 5.19 Nathaniel 2008 Galileo 139 50 35.97 73 11 1,267,466 12 8.63 7 5.04 Dawn Approach 2010 New Approach 82 23 28.05 37 7.7 821,783 8 9.76 4 4.88 Soldier Hollow 2000 In The Wings 145 56 38.62 88 9.1 1,436,662 12 8.28 7 4.83 Shamardal 2002 Giant’s Causeway 190 79 41.58 101 8.1 2,212,916 21 11.05 9 4.74 Siyouni 2007 Pivotal 169 65 38.46 94 8.1 2,661,033 16 9.47 8 4.73 Panis 1998 Miswaki 43 14 32.56 20 8 626,595 5 11.63 2 4.65 Sea The Stars 2006 Cape Cross 130 53 40.77 83 10.8 3,188,098 13 10.0 6 4.62 High Chaparral 1999 Sadler’s Wells 133 44 33.08 59 10.2 935,896 6 4.51 6 4.51 Manduro 2002 Monsun 111 42 37.84 56 11.2 1,033,615 7 6.31 5 4.50 Pivotal 1993 Polar Falcon 134 54 40.30 84 8.7 2,102,484 14 10.45 6 4.48 Lope de Vega 2007 Shamardal 179 78 43.58 121 8.7 1,955,081 21 11.73 8 4.47 Luxor 2000 Distant Relative 70 28 40.00 58 7.6 1,091,875 4 5.71 3 4.29 Tamayuz 2005 Nayef 73 27 36.99 34 8 647,845 7 9.59 3 4.11 Dansili 1996 Danehill 149 60 40.27 84 10.3 2,104,282 14 9.4 6 4.03 Havana Gold 2010 Teofilo 100 28 28.00 43 7.7 649,592 4 4.0 4 4.00 New Approach 2005 Galileo 132 49 37.12 71 9.6 2,254,736 13 9.85 5 3.79 Wootton Bassett 2008 Iffraaj 53 21 39.62 30 8.2 1,057,036 5 9.43 2 3.77 Kitten’s Joy 2001 El Prado 54 21 38.89 33 9.2 1,816,803 6 11.11 2 3.70 Declaration Of War 2009 War Front 83 38 45.78 50 9.6 881,467 6 7.23 3 3.61 Exceed And Excel 2000 Danehill 202 82 40.59 128 6.6 1,786,767 13 6.44 7 3.47 Youmzain 2003 Sinndar 60 16 26.67 28 9.8 691,300 2 3.33 2 3.33 Mastercraftsman 2006 Danehill Dancer 242 96 39.67 138 10.3 3,335,652 18 7.44 8 3.31 Dylan Thomas 2003 Danehill 65 27 41.54 42 9.5 667,394 5 7.69 2 3.08 Zoffany 2008 Dansili 203 69 33.99 89 8.3 1,315,615 12 5.91 6 2.96 Le Havre 2006 Noverre 139 53 38.13 79 9.8 1,324,402 8 5.76 4 2.88 Makfi 2007 Dubawi 140 47 33.57 75 9.4 1,563,966 10 7.14 4 2.86 Victory Gallop 1995 Cryptoclearance 148 76 51.35 137 8.3 2,069,096 11 7.43 4 2.70 Kodiac 2001 Danehill 337 126 37.39 190 6.8 2,971,780 22 6.53 9 2.67 Lawman 2004 Invincible Spirit 191 68 35.60 90 9.3 1,266,415 10 5.24 5 2.62

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Dubawi closes the gap on Scat Daddy Scat Daddy is no longer quite so far ahead among sires with at least 30 runners. His percentage of stakes winners dropped from 16.67 to 13.73 after he had another nine runners but no additional scorers in stakes. There is a new occupant of second place, Dubawi having boosted his percentage from 9.66 to 12.2 after having six more stakes winners, notably Too Darn Hot. It is rare to have Galileo out of the first two at this stage of the season.

His percentage has dropped only a tiny amount but he added just two stakes winners, a low score by his exceptional standards. It is a similar story with Frankel – hardly any change in percentages but just one new stakes winner.

Falco and Redoute’s Choice are starkly contrasting newcomers to the top ten, albeit with only 109 runners between them. Falco moved from Haras d’Etreham to Haras du Grand Chesnaie in 2015 and his fee was E2,500. Redoute’s Choice is a multiple champion sire in Australia with a fee at Arrowfield this year of AUS$137,500.

All statistics correct up until September 7

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24 hours with... JAMES OLDRING His snowboarding days may be over – for the time being at least – but James Oldring is riding high with the success of British Champions Series, which has both boosted prize-money levels and helped promote top-class racing to a wider audience

I

’m an early riser and get up around 6.15am.

I’ve always liked my sleep but since my daughter Evie was born in July, I’ve not had a full night’s sleep at home. She’s changed everything.

In truth I’m quite bad at eating breakfast so it will often just be a coffee, sometimes fruit or cereal, before heading to the BHA office in High Holborn.

My role is Operations Director of British Champions Series & Great British Racing International. At BCS we work closely with the racecourses – luckily the commercial structure of the organisation makes that eminently possible because the company is actually owned by the racecourses that participate in the Series.

This will be the eighth Champions Day, the culmination of Champions Series, which has been a huge success. Champions Series had two clear aims when it was set up; commercial and promotional. When we started Champions Series, the value of the races was £11 million. Eight years down the line it’s over £20m. The series has enabled us to bring in racing’s biggest ever sponsorship deal with QIPCO. From a promotional perspective, we have over 600,000 social media followers – the most-followed racing platform globally.

I accept that hardened racing fans don’t need to be told that Group 1 races are special but for the wider audience, for us to differentiate our best product from the rest, it’s really effective. Last year we had 153 million Twitter timeline deliveries of our hashtag on Champions Day. The Champions Stakes is now worth more on its own than the entire Champions Day card when held at Newmarket, the centrepiece of a day worth £4.35m with four Group 1s, a Group 2 and a £250,000 handicap, broadcast to over 100 territories.

The best compliment I’ve had about Champions Day is that the atmosphere was akin to the people’s Sunday at Wimbledon and that is 100% what I’m aiming for – elite sport but open to the masses. I want people to attend because they think it’s going to be a wonderful sporting occasion and leave feeling they want to be a racing fan.

I’m lucky in that I’m sometimes asked to represent BCS or GBRI overseas, such as at the Asian Racing Conference in Seoul, South Korea, which I attended earlier this year. I’ve just returned from China and Inner Mongolia, where Mr Zhang, the man behind Yulong Investments, has built a sales complex and a racecourse.

Visiting China was fascinating – there’s no gambling and the racing is dominated by a few wealthy owners. However, there’s huge appetite for the sport and they’re keen to have a domestic industry. The scale of it could be immense.

In truth, I’m basically a failed jockey. Had things gone well I’d have enjoyed a long career in the saddle but I was too tall, too big, with a bad back – probably my biggest drawback was a fundamental lack of talent.

Though I learnt to ride at a young age, the thing that really got me interested in racing was going to Leicester racecourse

“Champions Day is now worth £4.35m; it’s elite sport open to the masses” with my dad, a GP, where he was a doctor.

He’d take me there during school holidays and entrust me to the tote lady.

I worked in racing yards for three years after finishing my A-Levels and rode as an amateur – I’d ride anything for anyone. In the five years I rode consistently, two of which were spent at university, I had five winners and over 100 rides.

My favourite memory from those days is the first time I sat in the weighing room at Cheltenham, throwing my bag down, looking up and seeing the names of Charlie Swan and Istabraq repeated on the wall above the pegs. I remember thinking then it was something very special. My worst memory was failing to win a two-runner race in which my rival fell three times.

GEORGE SELWYN

Interview: Edward Rosenthal

After I finished riding, I completed the BHB Graduate Scheme, worked briefly at Newmarket racecourse, then moved to the Jockey Club in London, before joining the BHB, working up to Corporate Projects Manager. One of my last jobs was as part of the team that set up Champions Series, so I’ve been involved from the very start.

As for the highlight so far, Frankel’s Champion Stakes farewell was amazing – I suspect I’ll never have the opportunity to work on another sporting event that is as close to people’s hearts.

My primary pastime now is being a dad, which I love. I’ve always enjoyed all sport but my biggest passion outside racing is snowboarding. Before I got married, every spare penny and every spare moment went on snowboarding. I’ve been all around the world but my favourite place is Val d’Isere.

When I’m in the office, lunch is usually leftovers from the night before. While I try and eat healthily, I’m also a massive chocoholic – my bottom draw is stuffed full of chocolate – so I try and go to the gym most lunchtimes to keep in shape.

I enjoy cooking and prefer it to watching TV. I’ll crack open a beer, put some music on and make something like pan-fried duck breast with plum and red wine sauce, or a Thai curry. My wife, Amanda, is Australian so we also enjoy a barbecue with friends.

I used to go to bed early, around 10pm.

Bedtime is now whenever we can get Evie to go down, which could be as early as 8.30pm – safe in the knowledge that it won’t be an uninterrupted night’s sleep.

British Champions Day is at Ascot on Saturday, October 20. For tickets see britishchampionsday.com

120 THOROUGHBRED OWNER BREEDER INC PACEMAKER

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DAR14690 OwnerBreeder OBC NOT 24SEPT18.qxp 18/09/2018 09:44 Page 1

Thunderous approval

Dubawi’s Night Of Thunder: the undefeated juvenile and 2,000 Guineas hero is outselling his sire’s first crop and his best price so far is £312k.

darleystallions.com

Darley