Thursday, 14th May 2026
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Global Breeding, Racing and Sales News

  • NEW Tron Arrives Like a Bolt Out of the Blue

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    Natural talent and long-range planning combined in impressive fashion at Randwick Kensington on Wednesday, where emerging colt Tron Bolt announced himself as a serious player for next month’s $1 million JJ Atkins with a dominant maiden victory over 1400m. The son of Toronado gave champion trainer Chris Waller another high-class juvenile prospect to aim toward Queensland after surging clear in the Hawaii Five Oh @ Vinery Stud 2YO Handicap under James McDonald. Settling behind the speed before angling into clear running, Tron Bolt quickly put the race beyond doubt, accelerating strongly to defeat Rolling Home by three lengths, with favourite Unhinged back in third. According to racenet.com.au, the performance immediately reshaped markets for the JJ Atkins at Eagle Farm, with the colt’s quote slashed dramatically following the convincing display. Waller said the stable had held a strong opinion of the colt from the beginning, despite his defeat on debut. “I was very impressed,” Waller said. “As I touched on pre-race, he was a nice Ready To Run horse and impressed us since day one. I wouldn't say I was surprised he was beaten on debut but it was certainly no surprise to see him win as well as he did today.” The Hall of Fame trainer now appears to have another legitimate hand for the Queensland juvenile feature alongside Stormy Marco, Nations League and stablemate The Roaring Sun, who currently shares the second line of betting with Tron Bolt. Waller confirmed highly regarded youngster St Gotthard had already been sent to the spelling paddock, increasing the focus on Tron Bolt’s winter campaign. The colt is likely to head next either to the Group 2 BRC Sires’ Produce Stakes at Eagle Farm on May 30 or a 1300m assignment at Rosehill on the same day before potentially pressing on toward the JJ Atkins mile. “Ideally he would win that or run well and go to the JJ Atkins,” Waller said. “He will get a mile easy. We’ve had it in mind for him for a while, he obviously needed to win today. He is just a lovely scopey horse so that's what we are thinking a mile.” Tron Bolt’s rise has already attracted significant attention through the sales ring. Raised at Victoria’s renowned Gilgai Farm - home of champions including Black Caviar, All Too Hard, Jameka and Masked Crusader -  the colt first sold for $250,000 at the Australian Easter Yearling Sale before returning to Riverside later in the year to top the Inglis Ready 2 Run Sale at $900,000. His explosive breeze-up gallop, clocked at a blistering 10.05 seconds for 200m, made him the standout performer of the sale. The colt is the first foal from Sunshine Coast Guineas winner Baccarat Baby, whose eight-win career earned more than half a million dollars in prizemoney. Wednesday’s performance suggested her son may now be on the verge of building an even bigger reputation of his own.

  • NEW Additional National Broodmare Supplementaries

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    Fresh depth has been added to this month’s Magic Millions National Broodmare Sale, with another wave of supplementary entries strengthening what is already shaping as one of the most commercially appealing catalogues in recent years. A collection of stakes performers, emerging juvenile prospects and well-related broodmares has now joined the Gold Coast auction, which will be conducted across May 26 and 27. Among the headline additions is the exciting Snitzel filly Free Flying, whose pedigree and early racetrack performances make her one of the more intriguing juvenile prospects to enter the sale. Catalogued as Lot 555 in the Newington Farm Premium Consignment, the filly has already displayed stakes-level talent in limited appearances. She finished runner-up on debut in the Listed Magic Millions Debutant Stakes at Caulfield before later producing a close fourth placing in the Listed Merson Cooper Stakes. Free Flying carries an exceptionally strong pedigree page. She is out of Ennis Hill, herself a daughter of Group 2 Reisling Stakes winner Hips Don’t Lie, while the family also includes champion juvenile filly Learning To Fly. The same draft also features La Gitana, another juvenile stakes performer from the celebrated family. The Home Affairs filly has finished placed at both starts in stakes company and is scheduled to contest Saturday’s Listed Woodlands Stakes at Scone. Several other black-type fillies and mares have also been added to the catalogue, including Kitty Flash, a multiple winner and four-time Group placegetter by Ace High, and Phenom, the Zoustar mare who has earned more than $159,000 and performed creditably at stakes level in Melbourne and Adelaide. Chris Waller-trained Canara joins the sale after a recent Eagle Farm victory and prior black-type placing in the Listed Bill Carter Stakes, while Cavity Bay enters with more than $355,000 in earnings and placings in the Moonee Valley Fillies Classic and South Australia Fillies Classic. Other supplementary additions include Cosmic Ride and Crickets Chirping, both stakes-performed mares with commercial pedigrees and proven versatility on the track. The broodmare section has also received a significant boost, particularly through the inclusion of several mares carrying covers to elite sires. Imported stakes winner Always inthe Munny heads to the sale in foal to champion sire I Am Invincible after producing promising juvenile Written in Munny, who finished fourth in the Group 3 Canonbury Stakes this season. Stakes-winning mare Oz Empress, a granddaughter of New Zealand champion Princess Coup, will be offered in foal to Ole Kirk. Another mare carrying an I Am Invincible pregnancy is Skagerrak, already proven as a Group-producing broodmare through Maribyrnong Plate winner Krakarib. The international virtual session has also gained further quality through the inclusion of Not Guilty, the stakes-winning daughter of Not A Single Doubt who was covered by emerging sire Super Seth last spring. With supplementary entries remaining open until Friday, Magic Millions officials are anticipating further additions before the final catalogue is locked away.

  • NEW Pride Hoping to See Clear Path to Stradbroke

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    Consistency has become the defining trait of Estadio Mestalla’s career, and trainer Joe Pride is hoping the tough gelding can again demonstrate those qualities when he tackles the Listed Luskin Star Stakes at Scone on Saturday. While the race itself carries valuable black-type status, racingnsw.com.au reports Pride’s broader focus is fixed firmly on next month’s Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap, with the experienced seven-year-old needing to confirm he remains on track for a Brisbane winter campaign. Estadio Mestalla resumes his rise through the sprinting ranks carrying a sizeable 61kg in the 1300m feature, a weight Pride admits appears unusual for the race conditions but not necessarily beyond the gelding’s capabilities. Since joining Pride’s stable late in 2023, Estadio Mestalla has developed from a benchmark-level horse into a seasoned stakes performer whose rating has climbed dramatically from 77 to 111. That progression now sees him conceding weight to horses of genuine top-class quality, including Group 1 winner Linebacker. Pride believes the gelding’s toughness and balance allow him to absorb heavier imposts more effectively than many rivals. “Generally you wouldn’t want a small weak horse to carry a big weight but he’s a well balanced horse,” Pride said. “And quality helps him carry weight.” The gelding resumed in the Hawkesbury Rush over 1100m earlier this month, finishing sixth in a performance Pride considered far stronger than it may have appeared on paper. “I thought his first run was super,” he said. “I don’t like Hawkesbury as a track for a horse like him so I thought he ran very well and he’s a horse that races well fresh and builds into a prep.” Pride expects the same natural improvement Estadio Mestalla displayed during his previous preparation, when he produced several high-quality performances after racing second-up in The Hunter despite an awkward draw. “He ran really well in the Hunter second-up last preparation off a poor draw,” Pride said. “He has a good draw here, he’s always in the finish. When I say the finish I mean the first five or six, he doesn’t know anything else.” That reliability has made the gelding one of Pride’s favourite stable horses. “He’s become very genuine the longer I’ve had him, I love him,” he said. “He’s such an honest horse and he races over a wide range of distances.” The gelding’s durability was highlighted during the spring when he carried 63kg to a first-up victory before adding further Group placings in races such as The Gong, The Ingham and the Summer Cup. Pride expects Saturday’s assignment to set him up ideally for a third-up peak deeper into the carnival. “I’m very happy with him, he will peak third-up but he will run a very nice race at Scone,” he said. Jason Collett reunites with Estadio Mestalla after previously winning aboard him and partnering the gelding in last year’s Summer Cup.

  • NEW Esperanza Can Add to Eureka Stud Emotion

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    An already emotional Queensland winter carnival will take on even deeper meaning at Doomben on Saturday when Esperanza contests the Group 2 Spirit Of Boom Classic just days after the sudden passing of her celebrated sire, reports punters.com.au. For Eureka Stud principal Scott McAlpine, the race represents far more than another feature event. It will be the first major raceday since Spirit Of Boom’s unexpected death last week, an event that triggered an outpouring of grief and support from across the global breeding and racing industry. McAlpine admitted the emotional weight of the occasion had already begun to hit home as messages flooded in following the loss of one of Queensland’s most influential stallions. “It was a very sad and hectic day when Spirit Of Boom passed away last week and so many people sent texts and contacted me, I started to get very cut up (emotional) by the end of the day,” McAlpine said. The possibility of Esperanza winning the race named in honour of her sire would create an extraordinary moment for the family behind Eureka Stud. “It would definitely be a very emotional moment if Esperanza could win in Spirit Of Boom’s honour on Saturday,” he said. “It is a tough race, but we hope the racing gods can smile on us. I will be trackside with (son) Angus and (wife) Grania and we will be cheering hard.” Trained by Rex Lipp, Esperanza has already shown enough talent during her debut preparation to suggest she belongs among Queensland’s better juveniles. The filly announced herself with an upset victory at Doomben on debut in February when successful at $17, immediately rewarding the patience of connections who elected to retain her rather than offer her through a yearling sale. She has not returned to the winner’s circle since, but her runner-up effort behind Swift Dragon in the rich QTIS Jewel 2YO confirmed her quality against stronger opposition. More recently, Esperanza finished sixth in the Listed Calaway Gal Stakes at Eagle Farm, though connections were prepared to forgive the performance given the heavy track conditions. McAlpine believes the return to firmer footing and the rise to 1200m can help the filly rebound in Saturday’s feature. “We were going to race her in the Bill Carter Stakes (for 2YO fillies) but we liked the look of this race on Saturday given it’s 1200m,” he said. “We always thought Esperanza was a lovely filly and she never went to any sale. This is only her first preparation and she has done an amazing job.” McAlpine said careful placement and spacing between runs had helped the filly maintain her form throughout a demanding juvenile campaign. “We have spaced her runs out and she just keeps giving for us,” he said. “You just have to forget the run the other day when the track was no good and the weather was bad.” Saturday’s race now carries emotional significance well beyond prizemoney or black type.

  • NEW The Western Front Ready for Ramsden Battle

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    Dreams of Melbourne Cup glory will move a step closer to reality for a large and enthusiastic ownership group if emerging stayer The Western Front can continue his rise through the grades at Flemington on Saturday. Victory in the Listed Andrew Ramsden Stakes over 2800m would secure the gelding an automatic ballot exemption into this year’s Melbourne Cup, adding enormous significance to a race already carrying rich staying tradition. According to loveracing.nz, the son of War Decree arrives at the feature in career-best form after successive metropolitan victories, including a dominant BM84 win over 2500m at Flemington on ANZAC Day. That performance further strengthened the growing belief within the Lindsay Park stable that the lightly raced five-year-old is only now beginning to reach his full staying potential. Trained by Ben, Will and JD Hayes, The Western Front races in the colours of Ace Bloodstock alongside a group of Lindsay Park clients, with close to 20 owners sharing in the journey. Co-trainer JD Hayes said the atmosphere surrounding the horse had continued building as he climbed through the grades. “We’re really excited,” Hayes said. “The ownership group is having a terrific ride with him, going through the grades. It was great to buy him with the Ace Bloodstock boys and hopefully this is just the beginning of the journey.” Hayes expects the owners’ enclosure at Flemington to be lively again if the gelding produces another strong staying display. “Hopefully, they’ll again be vocal there on Saturday, that’s the plan,” he said. “You’ve got to enjoy the good times, and the way this horse is going, there should be plenty more to come.” The Western Front’s rise has been anything but conventional. Bred in New Zealand by the late Kevin Hickman, the gelding was initially purchased online by trainer Ralph Manning for just NZ$1300 before eventually being secured privately by Ace Bloodstock following two quiet trials across the Tasman. Hayes said patience had been crucial with the horse, who took considerable time to physically mature after arriving in Australia. “We bought him out of a trial in New Zealand and when he came over, he still had plenty of developing and furnishing to do,” Hayes said. “He’s just come of age now. The next two years, hopefully it’s full of wins and lots of prize money.” Since stepping beyond 2000m, The Western Front has rapidly established himself as a genuine staying prospect, winning six of his 16 starts and earning more than $250,000 in prizemoney. His transformation has been particularly striking given that less than a year ago he was contesting modest provincial races in South Australia. “Ever since he’s got past 2000 metres, he’s come into his own with two dominant wins,” Hayes said. “We’ve always liked him and had a nice opinion of him. Just being a stayer, we had to take him through his grades and learn his craft.” Luke Currie, who partnered the gelding to victory at Flemington last start, retains the ride in Saturday’s Andrew Ramsden.

    The Western Front

    $1,300 bargain buy The Western Front (pic: Bruno Cannatelli)

  • Analysis of How Jenni Subjugates Her Rivals

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    Few modern racehorses have altered the tactical complexion of elite races quite like Pride Of Jenni, whose relentless front-running style forces rivals into decisions that often compromise their own efficiency long before the home straight arrives. Analysis conducted by The Rating Bureau's Daniel O'Sullivan and The Inside Running team highlights that the mare's impact extends far beyond her own performances, reshaping the way entire fields distribute energy and react under pressure. The temptation is often to reduce Pride Of Jenni's performances to a simple equation: she wins when allowed to dictate at her preferred speed and becomes vulnerable when pressured. The reality, however, is far more nuanced. Some of her most dominant victories have come off only moderate tempos by her standards, while there have also been races where she has travelled exceptionally fast and still proved almost impossible to run down. What consistently separates her from most elite gallopers is not simply the speed she sustains, but the tactical strain she places on every horse and rider chasing behind her. Saturday's Hollindale Stakes provided another compelling case study. By the 1200m mark, nearest pursuer Golden Path was already seven lengths behind, while Birdman sat more than 10 lengths off the lead. Crucially, Pride Of Jenni had established those margins without travelling at an unsustainable speed. Once Declan Bates increased the pressure approaching the 1200m, the race shape changed dramatically. Over the next 200m, the margin to Golden Path extended from seven lengths to 9.6 lengths, while Birdman drifted from 10.6 lengths to 13.9 lengths behind. O'Sullivan compared the effect to traffic accelerating away from lights. The leader builds speed first, while those behind require time and energy to react. By the time they do, the gap has already widened into something significantly more difficult to bridge. Much of the discussion surrounding Pride Of Jenni centres on whether rivals "allow" her too much freedom, but the more important factor is often the impact her racing pattern has on the efficiency of the chasing pack itself. Horses positioned behind the first line of chasers are frequently trapped maintaining cover rather than improving, leaving them dependent on decisions made ahead of them. Those riders face a difficult tactical dilemma. Do they spend energy earlier trying to reduce the gap, or trust the leader will weaken late? That judgement requires balancing speed, positioning and how well both their own horse and Pride Of Jenni herself are coping. The 2025 Empire Rose Stakes offered a similar example. Although Pride Of Jenni travelled only modestly above standard to the 800m mark, nearest chasers still conceded a margin exceeding nine lengths before she powered clear to score comfortably. Birdman's Hollindale run reinforced the same principle from another angle. Despite travelling slower through the early and middle stages than in several previous starts, he was still nearly 14 lengths off the lead at the 800m mark — more than double his usual positioning at that stage. The broader point from O'Sullivan's analysis is that Pride Of Jenni is not merely dictating tempo; she is reshaping the efficiency and tactical options of every rival around her. Sometimes, even when opponents make the correct decisions, she remains simply too good. Like Vo Rogue before her, she creates a rare form of sustained pressure that leaves elite opposition uncomfortable, reactive and often beaten long before the winning post comes into sight.

  • 2026 Aquis Stallion Fees Announced

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    Commercial realism and breeder accessibility sit at the centre of Aquis Stallions' newly released 2026 roster, with the Queensland operation unveiling a line-up designed to balance affordability with proven speed, precocity and broad market appeal. As breeding operations across Australia continue navigating tighter economic conditions, Aquis has opted to position its stallions at price points aimed squarely at providing breeders with practical commercial opportunities while maintaining strong racetrack credentials and appealing bloodlines. Heading the roster is Prost, the regally bred son of Snitzel who returns for his second season at stud at a fee of $9,900 including GST. A Group-winning juvenile who also trained on successfully at three, Prost combines natural speed with one of the most commercially attractive sprint pedigrees in the Australian Stud Book. He is a three-quarter brother to Golden Slipper winner Shinzo and Magic Millions 2YO Classic heroine Exhilarates, further strengthening his appeal to breeders seeking early-running stock with residual value. Also standing at $9,900 including GST is Kobayashi, whose rise through the Queensland stallion ranks has been driven by consistent racetrack results and a growing reputation for producing tough, genuine performers capable of succeeding both locally and interstate. Already recognised as a Champion Queensland 2YO Stallion, Kobayashi has become a proven source of early speed while also producing horses able to train on beyond their juvenile seasons. Stronger remains on the roster at $8,800 including GST and continues to generate significant interest through his profile as a dual Group 1 weight-for-age sprint winner. The son of Not A Single Doubt has already attracted strong support from both Australian and international buyers, particularly those targeting the lucrative Hong Kong market where sprinting pedigrees remain highly sought after. American-bred stallion Officiating will also stand for $8,800 including GST after making a promising beginning to his stud career. The son of Blame has covered more than 100 mares in each of his first two seasons and continues to appeal through a combination of physical presence, international bloodlines and an attractive outcross pedigree for Australian breeders. Aquis director of sales Jonathan Davies said the operation had approached the 2026 season with a strong focus on providing realistic value during a challenging commercial environment. "We understand the challenges breeders are facing and have structured our 2026 roster to offer genuine value and realistic opportunities," Davies said. He believes each stallion offers breeders a distinct avenue for commercial success, whether through developing racetrack performance, emerging stock or established market support. "Each stallion on our roster presents his own opportunity this season, whether through emerging runners, growing racetrack form, strong foundations at stud or outstanding value at the current fee," he said. "We're proud to continue working with breeders through competitive fees and a practical approach to the season."

  • Godolphin Trio Headlines Inglis Digital Start

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    Young Godolphin stock proved highly sought after during the opening session of the Inglis Digital May (Early) Online Sale, with buyers showing strong confidence in lightly raced horses capable of improving significantly once transferred to new environments. A nine-horse Godolphin draft dominated proceedings and produced the three highest-priced lots of the day, headlined by three-year-old Aleppo Pine, who was secured by Monarch Racing for $100,000. The son of Blue Point will join Warwick Farm trainer Richard Litt after attracting attention as a lightly raced prospect with untapped upside. Monarch Racing's Jason Micallef said the stable had developed considerable confidence purchasing former Godolphin horses through Inglis Digital after enjoying success with several previous acquisitions. "I love Inglis Digital and we've had some great success off the platform buying off Godolphin especially," Micallef said, referencing horses including Barber, Mr Marathon Man, South Pacific and metro winners Secret Plan and Destination. "We've had plenty of luck and there's always value for money to be found on Inglis Digital." Micallef believes Aleppo Pine fits the same profile as several of those successful purchases, particularly given his limited racing exposure and pedigree. "This horse Aleppo Pine really fits the mould for us," he said. "I feel the Blue Point's get better as late 3YOs and into their 4YO season, he's only lightly raced and he's only been tested over shorter ground so I'd like to get Richard to have a crack and see if he can get him to relax a bit and hit the line and see if we can get him out over a little further like his breeding suggests." He added that Midway races could quickly become a target once the gelding settles into his new stable. "He's the perfect horse for us to get into a Midway and see if he can work through the grades," Micallef said. The second-highest priced horse was Crocodile, a son of Ghaiyyath purchased by Blueblood Thoroughbreds for $80,000 before being earmarked for a campaign with Ciaron Maher. Blueblood's David Mourad said the gelding's heavy-track ability had been a major attraction. "At this stage he's going to have a little break then we'll target the Melbourne winter and try to find some wet tracks because he won his Maiden on a Heavy 10 so hopefully he's a real mudlark and we can get some deep heavy tracks over the next few months," Mourad said. Godolphin representative Jason Walsh expressed satisfaction with the overall strength of the market, particularly given the profile of the horses offered. "The market was solid for the type of horses we brought here – they're young, lightly raced horses and it was good to see plenty of different buyers involved on them," Walsh said. Another eye-catching result saw a five per cent share in multiple Group 1 winner Overpass sell for $35,000 to Blue Arrow Equine ahead of the sprinter's planned Royal Ascot campaign. "We've bought the dream," Blue Arrow's Adam Fletcher said. "This is the easiest way to get into a racehorse, buy a small percentage of a horse racing at the elite level. It's very exciting."

    Overpass

    A 10% share in Overpass sold for $35,000 (pic: inglis.com.au)

  • Keys Tassie Cohort Set to Raid Caulfield

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    A growing confidence is sweeping through Tasmanian racing as the state's leading horses continue proving they can successfully measure up against stronger mainland opposition and compete for significantly richer prizemoney. Recent interstate performances have reinforced the belief that Tasmania's better gallopers are no longer simply competitive visitors but genuine threats whenever they travel across Bass Strait. John Keys appears poised to launch another mainland assault later this month, with stablemates Swift Force and Perspiration both shaping as strong Caulfield contenders following encouraging performances. Swift Force enhanced her already impressive record last Saturday when leading throughout to claim a Benchmark 78 over 1200m at Caulfield, lifting her tally to four wins from just five starts. Her only defeat came in Hobart earlier this year when finishing second to Perspiration in the Magic Millions 3YO/4YO Classic. The mare is now being prepared for another Melbourne assignment on May 30, with Keys weighing up either a fillies and mares Benchmark 78 over 1200m or the Listed Bel Esprit Stakes over 1100m. Perspiration could accompany her on the trip after pleasing connections with a strong trial performance in Hobart on Tuesday morning. Ridden by retired Hall of Fame jockey and part-owner Stephen Maskiell, the lightly raced gelding settled towards the rear before finishing powerfully through the line to capture the 1000m heat after the leaders set a strong tempo. "He settled well because they went so hard up front, it was almost like a race," Maskiell said. "He needed a good hit-out because he'll head to Caulfield first-up, and he got that today." Since transferring from Ciaron Maher's stable to Keys, Perspiration has quickly developed into one of Tasmania's more promising sprinters, winning his past two starts including the Royal Rambo at Launceston Cup Day. The gelding is now being aimed at a Benchmark 84 over 1200m at Caulfield on the same day as Swift Force's assignment. Tuesday's Hobart trials also featured several other eye-catching performances, including unbeaten trial winner Ballerini, whose 48.50-second effort was the fastest of the morning's four 800m heats. Experienced galloper In The Ocean also pleased trainer Sarah Cotton in a maintenance trial ahead of a planned return in a Class 6 sprint in Hobart next month. The consistent gelding has already placed in 15 of his 18 starts, including six victories, further underlining the depth currently emerging within Tasmania's racing ranks.

  • Belmont Park Opens Following Redevelopment

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    A major transformation at Belmont Park is set to greet Western Australian racegoers this weekend, with Perth Racing unveiling an $8 million redevelopment designed to reshape both the visual identity and overall raceday experience at one of the state’s most recognisable racing venues. According to racingwa.com.au, racing returns to Belmont on Saturday headlined by the Gr3 Belmont Sprint, but much of the attention away from the track will centre on sweeping infrastructure upgrades completed in time for the start of the winter season. Perth Racing chief executive James Oldring said the extensive redevelopment represented far more than cosmetic improvement, describing it as part of a broader strategy to modernise the club and broaden its appeal beyond traditional racing audiences. Among the most striking additions is a giant 200-square-metre superscreen positioned on the main straight before the winning post, giving patrons a dramatically upgraded viewing experience throughout the course. “The experience now at Belmont will better reflect what everyone should expect from a metropolitan race club,” Oldring said. He believes the renovations have the potential to fundamentally alter public perception of the venue. “I’m hoping these renovations completely redefine Belmont’s reputation as a venue, not only for racing, but also for entertainment. I’m extremely proud of the team for delivering what was originally proposed as a three-year project within about a six-month period.” Oldring acknowledged the speed of the transformation had required an enormous effort behind the scenes but said anticipation was building ahead of the reopening. “It has been a huge undertaking to turn it around in the time that they have, but I’m really looking forward to seeing the reaction from members and patrons when they come to Belmont and see what a day at the races now looks like,” he said. Several areas within the grandstand have undergone extensive redevelopment, including a major renovation of Old Mate’s Sports Bar on the ground floor, complete with a new indoor broadcast screen. A new Vantage viewing platform has also been installed on the second level for owners, trainers and members overlooking the mounting yard and finishing post. Higher within the venue, the Riverview floor has been refurbished to enhance the general admission experience, while the members’ floor has been expanded following removal of the former Champagne Bar. Corporate suites overlooking the Swan River have similarly been modernised, with upgraded roofing and air-conditioning complementing accessibility improvements introduced last year through installation of a customer elevator. The redevelopment follows a period of strong growth for Perth Racing, particularly during the recent Ascot carnival. More than 77,000 patrons attended meetings across the carnival period, with several major racedays attracting crowds above 10,000. Perth Racing said the average age of ticket buyers was just 32, while 57 per cent of attendees were under 30. Attendance and spending trends also continued upward through Quokka raceday, where crowd numbers climbed to a record 8200 patrons. Oldring said younger audiences and a noticeably broader demographic mix were increasingly driving the venue’s growth, with racing now attracting a more inclusive and diverse crowd profile than in previous years.

    Belmont Park

    Racing returns to Belmont Park on Saturday (pic: racingwa.com.au)

  • Senior UK Wagering Adviser Pulls the Pin

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    Fresh turmoil has engulfed Britain’s controversial affordability checks policy after a senior government adviser dramatically resigned from the Gambling Act Review Evaluation Advisory Group, warning the proposed rollout was being pushed forward without adequate scrutiny or meaningful independent evaluation. James Noyes, who had initially supported the concept of financial risk checks, told racingpost.com he could no longer remain involved in a process he believed was failing to properly assess the wider consequences of the policy on consumers, operators and industries heavily reliant on betting revenue, including racing. His resignation comes at a particularly sensitive stage, with the Gambling Commission expected to approve implementation measures at a board meeting later this month despite mounting industry concern. The proposed checks – referred to officially as “financial risk assessments” – have already generated significant opposition within British racing amid estimates they could strip as much as £250 million from the sport over the next five years through reduced betting turnover. In a strongly worded letter seen by the Racing Post, Noyes expressed disbelief that such sweeping reforms could proceed without what he described as meaningful analysis of their practical effects. “As someone who was invited to give expert advice to this process, it astonishes me we have a situation whereby controversial financial risk checks are being rolled out by the Gambling Commission before any meaningful – and independent – evaluation of this policy can be carried out. This is clearly unacceptable,” Noyes wrote. He further criticised the advisory process itself, arguing the group had never been given sufficient opportunity to properly debate how affordability checks might alter betting behaviour or whether they would genuinely reduce gambling-related harm. “The government has a duty to ensure that its legislative proposals are evaluated in an adequate manner. In the case of the Gambling Act review, and most notably financial risk assessments, this has not happened. Instead we have a situation where there is confusion,” he said. Noyes also questioned the reliability of the data underpinning the proposed spending thresholds, warning the figures being used were outdated and potentially distorted by inflationary changes since they were originally compiled. Concerns were additionally raised regarding inconsistencies between credit reference agencies, which he suggested undermined assurances the checks would operate seamlessly and without friction for punters. British Horseracing Authority chief executive Brant Dunshea strongly backed Noyes following the resignation, describing the situation as deeply troubling for the future of the sport. “We commend Dr Noyes for having the courage and principle to resign from this evaluation group over his concerns about its work,” Dunshea said. “We share his astonishment that the affordability checks are being rolled out by the Gambling Commission before any meaningful and independent evaluation of their impact has been adequately conducted.” Dunshea warned the policy risked driving punters away from regulated betting operators towards illegal markets, a concern recently reinforced by a Racing Post investigation revealing mainstream artificial intelligence chatbots were already providing users with advice on bypassing affordability checks and accessing unlicensed bookmakers.

  • Bassalina Attempting Back to Back Ramsdens

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    A patient rebuilding campaign could be about to pay dividends for Basilinna as the durable staying mare attempts to defend her crown in Saturday’s Listed Andrew Ramsden Stakes at Flemington. Twelve months ago, the daughter of Staphanos secured victory in the 2800m feature to earn a coveted ballot exemption into the Melbourne Cup, seemingly setting herself up for a major spring campaign. Those ambitions were quickly interrupted, however, when minor surgery to remove a bone chip curtailed her preparation after just one further appearance. According to racenet.com.au, the setback forced trainers David and Emma-Lee Browne to ease back on their original plans, giving the mare a longer break than initially anticipated and leaving her needing several runs this preparation to regain full fitness. Early efforts at weight-for-age level proved challenging, but the stable has steadily become more encouraged with each performance as the mare builds towards peak condition. An improved run in the Mornington Cup was followed by another honest effort in testing conditions at Warrnambool last week, where she finished within striking distance despite racing on heavy ground that did not suit her. Emma-Lee Browne said the mare had gradually worked her way back towards top form after taking time to reach full fitness. “She’s just taken time to come to hand,” Browne said. “She probably just peaked on her run at Mornington when she came out wide and made a big searching run there.” Browne felt the conditions at Warrnambool made the task more difficult but was pleased with how the mare had come through the race physically. “It was a bit stickier than she would have liked on Warrnambool Cup Day but she’s bounced through it well,” she said. “I thought she finished off well but she might just need it a little bit further now and not quite have as big a weight to carry as opposed to some of the other ones.” Saturday’s Andrew Ramsden shapes as a more suitable assignment under set-weights conditions, with Basilinna avoiding the heavier handicap burdens she has recently carried. The mare is only disadvantaged in the weights against highest-rated rival Changingoftheguard, a factor the stable hopes can help narrow the gap on paper. Browne believes the steady conditioning process has finally brought the mare close to her best. “Through that heavy track, she hadn’t seen one for a little while. I think the race the other day topped her off well,” she said. “I think she’s been coming up nicely even though she’s had a bit of weight to carry. She’s a good doing mare so she needs that bit of racing under her belt. I think she’s probably about there fitness-wise. Hopefully we’re bang on for Saturday.”

  • Thoroughbred Breeders Federation Chair Departs

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    Global breeding leaders gathered in France this month as the International Thoroughbred Breeders’ Federation concluded its 2026 conference following five days of meetings and events staged across Deauville and Paris. Representatives from 25 member nations and umbrella organisations spanning six continents attended the conference, underscoring the increasingly international nature of the Thoroughbred breeding industry and the federation’s ongoing role in protecting and advancing its interests worldwide. The meeting also marked the end of an influential era for the organisation, with long-serving chairman Kirsten Rausing stepping down after leading the ITBF from 2017 through to 2026. During the general meeting, chief executive Sarah Carmichael praised Rausing’s contribution to the federation and acknowledged the significant progress made under her stewardship. Carmichael thanked the outgoing chairman for her “unwavering commitment, dedication, and passion for the betterment of the global Thoroughbred breeding industry,” while noting the organisation had moved forward substantially during her tenure. Rausing expressed confidence the federation remained well positioned for the future under new leadership. “The ITBF’s work to protect our industry and its participants, equine and human, will continue apace for many years to come. As I retire from my post as ITBF chairman, I feel sure that the Federation is in very safe hands with my successor,” she said. Members formally ratified the appointment of incoming chairman Lord Teddy Grimthorpe, who used his acceptance speech to reaffirm the federation’s commitment to maintaining high global breeding standards. “I am deeply honored that you (the membership) have entrusted the chairmanship to me,” Grimthorpe said. “I will endeavor to ensure that the ITBF flourishes and continues to safeguard and uphold the values of the high standards required for a healthy bloodstock breeding industry throughout the world.” The conference concluded with an emotional tribute to ITBF founder Sam Sheppard, who died in February, while delegates also confirmed India will host the federation’s next general meeting from January 31 to February 6 in 2028.

  • Golden Slipper Nominations Ignite 2YO Dreams

    Thursday, 14th May 2026
    Dreams of juvenile glory are already stirring as entries open for the 71st edition of Australia's premier two-year-old contest, the $5 million Group 1 TAB Golden Slipper at Rosehill Gardens. Long regarded as the race that can redefine a colt's future at stud and elevate a stable into racing folklore, the Golden Slipper continues to hold a singular place within the Australian turf landscape. Scheduled for Saturday, 20 March 2027, the world's richest race for juveniles again headlines the Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival, with another elite crop expected to chase the honour and enormous financial rewards attached to victory. Alongside the prestige of claiming one of racing's most treasured prizes, connections will compete for a $2.95 million winner's purse from a total prizemoney pool of $5 million, with payouts extending across a maximum field of 16 runners. The Australian Turf Club this week confirmed that first nominations for yearlings must be lodged by 3pm on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, accompanied by a $440 entry fee. A further opportunity remains available through the late entry stage, with nominations accepted until 3pm on Tuesday, 4 August 2026 for a fee of $2750. First acceptances will then close on Tuesday, 6 October 2026. For breeders and owners alike, the Slipper's influence stretches well beyond raceday itself. Australian Turf Club Head of Racing and Wagering Nevesh Ramdhani said the race continued to tower above every other juvenile feature in the nation. "From the moment a Thoroughbred is born, owners, breeders and trainers begin to live the dream of having a runner in the TAB Golden Slipper," Mr Ramdhani said. He added that no Australian race carried greater power to shape both racing and breeding fortunes, particularly through the commercial appeal attached to a Golden Slipper-winning colt. Mr Ramdhani also described the race as "an iconic event in world racing as part of Sydney's renowned autumn program." Adding further incentive, every horse that secures a first nomination for the Golden Slipper is automatically entered at no additional cost for the Group 1 Golden Rose in September 2027, with that eligibility remaining intact even if a Slipper nomination later lapses during the acceptance stages.

    Shinzo

    Shinzo is one of the latest Golden Slipper winners (pic: supplied)
Amarina Farm
Arrowfield Stud
Bell River Thoroughbreds
Berkeley Park Stud
Bhima Thoroughbreds
Blue Gum Farm
Bombora Downs
Clear Mountain Fairview
Coolmore Stud
Cressfield
Evergreen Stud
Kingstar Farm
Lime Country Thoroughbreds
Mill Park Stud
Murrulla Stud
Newhaven Park
Segenhoe Stud
Silverdale Farm
Sledmere Stud
Torryburn Stud
Tyreel Stud
Vinery Stud
Widden Stud
Willow Park Stud
Yarraman Park Stud

2025 BTR Stud Stallions

BTP STUD STALLIONS

Sire
A Lot Established
Acrobat Established
Al Maher Established
Alabama Express Established
All American Established
All Too Hard Established
Alpine Eagle Established
Alpine Edge 3rd Season
Anamoe 1st crop 2YOs
Anders Established
Artie Schiller Established
Awesome Rock Established
Barbados Established
Barbaric Established
Best Of Bordeaux Established
Better Than Ready Established
Bivouac Established
Brave Smash Established
Brazen Beau Established
Bruckner 1st crop 2YOs
Bull Point Established
Bullbars Established
Cape Of Good Hope 1st crop 2YOs
Capitalist Established
Captivant Established
Castelvecchio Established
City Of Troy Established
Cliff's Edge Established
Cogburn 2nd Season
Cool Aza Beel Established
D'argento Established
Danerich Established
Dash For Cash Established
De Gaulle Established
Delaware Established
Denman Established
Dirty Work Established
Dissident Established
Don Corleone 3rd Season
Doubtland Established
Dubious Established
Dundeel Established
Ellsberg 1st crop 2YOs
Encryption Established
Exceedance Established
Exosphere Established
Extreme Choice Established
Farnan Established
Flying Artie Established
Foxwedge Established
Frankel My Dear Established
Gingerbread Man Established
Gold Standard Established
Graff Established
Grunt Established
Hallowed Crown Established
Harry Angel Established
Hawaii Five Oh 3rd Season
Headwater Established
Hellbent Established
Hitotsu 1st crop 2YOs
Home Affairs Established
I Am Immortal Established
I Am Invincible Established
Ilovethiscity Established
Invader Established
Jacquinot 1st crop 2YOs
Ka Ying Master 1st crop 2YOs
Kermadec Established
King Colorado 3rd Season
King's Legacy Established
Lead Artist 1st Season
Lofty Strike 3rd Season
Lord Of The Sky Established
Love Conquers All Established
Manhattan Rain Established
Maschino Established
Master Of Design Established
Maurice Established
Merchant Navy Established
Mo'unga 3rd Season
Murtajill Established
My Admiration Established
Needs Further Established
Nicconi Established
Nostradamus Established
Officiating 3rd Season
Ole Kirk Established
Pariah Established
Pierata Established
Pierro Established
Pinatubo Established
Playing God Established
Portland Sky Established
Power Established
Pride Of Dubai Established
Private Life Established
Puissance De Lune Established
Rebel Dane Established
Rich Enuff Established
Rommel Established
Rubick Established
Russian Camelot Established
Russian Revolution Established
Safeguard Established
Sandbar Established
Sessions Established
Shaft Established
Shalaa Established
Shamoline Warrior Established
Shamus Award Established
Shinzo Established
Shooting To Win Established
Sidestep Established
Sizzling Established
Skilled Established
Smart Missile Established
Snitzel Established
So Secret Established
So You Think Established
Soul Patch Established
Southport Tycoon 2nd Season
Spirit Of Boom Established
Squamosa Established
St Mark's Basilica Established
Star Turn Established
Star Witness Established
Street Boss Established
Super One Established
Supido Established
Swear Established
Sweet Ride 3rd Season
Switzerland Established
The Autumn Sun Established
The Brothers War Established
Time To Reign Established
Too Darn Hot Established
Toorak Toff Established
Top Echelon Established
Topicus 1st Season
Toronado Established
Trapeze Artist Established
Turffontein Established
Unite And Conquer Established
Universal Ruler Established
Vancouver Established
Vandeek Established
Victor Ludorum Established
Von Costa De Hero Established
Wandjina Established
Winning Rupert Established
Wooded Established
Wootton Bassett Established
Worthy Cause Established
Written By Established
Written Tycoon Established
Xtravagant Established
Your Song Established
Zousain Established
Zoustar Established