Wyong’s $500,000 Limitless Lodge The Lakes has quickly become a Central Coast target, and Saturday’s edition shapes as another strong test with Chris Waller poised to send a sizeable team as he attempts to keep his unbeaten record in the race intact. The champion trainer won the inaugural running last year when Waterford prevailed in a driving finish (see below) over Bjorn baker-trained Robusto, and he now looks capable of fielding up to five runners, based on final nominations which closed on Monday morning. Heading the likely contingent is multiple Group winner Konasana, with stablemates Chica Mojito and Pippie Beach also under consideration after finishing third and fourth respectively in the Belle Of The Turf at Gosford. Last-start winner Mare Of Mt Buller and the consistent Sun God round out the Waller horses in the mix as the Randwick powerhouse weighs up the best combination for the 1600m feature. “Konasana is working her way into some form, we missed the Gosford race because she drew wide and had a big weight," Waller said. He pointed to improvement in her closing work last start, noting Regan Bayliss’ feedback in particular. “Last start she finished off better, Regan Bayliss knows her well and they were his words.” Waller also felt Chica Mojito had excuses last time. “Chica was very unlucky and the race looks to suit.” Waller admitted Wyong can be a slight unknown at times, but he believes the feature day profile helps create a more genuinely run race. “It’s a good representation, I often getting worried about going to Wyong but it actually races quite well on these bigger days when there’s a bit more speed on,” he said, suggesting that tempo could be a key factor in how the contest is set up. Konasana has continued to be kept ticking over, trialling at Rosehill on Friday after missing the Gosford assignment. Her last win came in the Group 2 Westbury Classic at Ellerslie almost a year ago, following a Belle Of The Turf victory in 2024 when that race was staged at Wyong, a reminder that the track has suited her in the past. Opposition is expected to be deep, including horses emerging from the Randwick formline where Konasana finished tenth behind Country Championships winner Know Thyself over 1400m on December 20, with runner-up Sandpaper also a likely Wyong rival. Bjorn Baker, whose stable is in sparkling touch ahead of the Magic Millions Carnival, may also be strongly represented with stakes winner Amor Victorious and last year’s The Lakes runner-up Robusto among his three possible runners.
Winner: Stellar Express (Zoustar-Darinja, by Shamardal)
Placings: Colourful King and Invincible Sage
Stallion: Zoustar (Northern Meteor-Zouzou, by Danehill)
Stud Farm: Widden Stud
Race Record: 7 Wins and 11 Placings from 35 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
NEWOne Size Fits All in Gr3 Bahunia Sprint
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Sustained excellence at a high class sprint level again defined Hong Kong's Sha Tin meeting on Sunday, as another chapter was added to a familiar story of mastery in the HK$4.2 million G3 Bauhinia Sprint Trophy Handicap over 1000m. According to racingnews.hkjc.com, the latest renewal reinforced John Size’s enduring grip on the race, with Zoustar talented sprinter Stellar Express delivering a decisive display of early speed and control to extend the stable’s remarkable record in the event. Guided by Andrea Atzeni, the French-bred gelding provided Size with his sixth victory in the Bauhinia Sprint Trophy and his third success since 2022, following earlier triumphs spread across more than two decades. The win also formed part of a productive double on the card for the champion trainer, lifting his season tally to 16 victories as he continues a familiar mid-campaign surge. For Stellar Express, it marked a fourth win over the Sha Tin 1000m, confirming his status as a specialist at the course and distance. “He seemed to leave nothing else to chance, he jumped cleanly and got to the front and just made one act of it,” Size said. He added that when the gelding enjoys favourable circumstances down the outside rail, he tends to sustain his run strongly, a pattern that has become increasingly evident. Size also pointed to the advantage of racing under suitable conditions, describing Stellar Express as a horse who thrives when able to use his natural speed on a track that suits him. From gate five, Stellar Express quickly asserted himself, clearing the field early before crossing to the grandstand rail to dictate terms. The advantage grew rapidly, and by the 200m he had opened a commanding lead. He went on to score comfortably in 55.85 seconds, defeating Colourful King by three lengths, with Group 1 winner Invincible Sage filling third. While Colourful King produced the fastest closing sectional of the race, his momentum came too late to seriously threaten the winner. Size’s influence extended beyond the feature sprint, with Sight Hermoso scoring in the Class 4 Tsam Chuk Wan Handicap under Brenton Avdulla, while Sagacious Life underlined his credentials for the Four-Year-Old Classic Series with a strong victory in the Class 2 Leighton Handicap over 1600m. Trained by Pierre Ng and ridden by Zac Purton, the Brazilian import settled just off the pace before sprinting sharply to prevail, prompting Ng to confirm plans to head directly to the Hong Kong Classic Mile on February 1.
Stellar Express made it a one act affair at Sha Tin (pic: hkjc.com)
NEWPatience Finally Rewarded for Perennial Bridesmaid
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Few horses test the resolve of their connections quite like one that repeatedly finds the line without quite reaching it, but perseverance finally delivered its reward at Gawler on Saturday. After a sequence of near misses that had begun to feel endless, punters.com reveals that Act Natural (Royal Meeting) broke through for a long-awaited maiden victory, ending a frustrating run of placings that had defined his early career. Prepared by Kerrin Stokes, the gelding went into the 1207m Maiden Plate carrying the weight of expectation after 12 starts without a win, despite rarely running a poor race. Eight times he had finished second, with four third placings completing a sequence of consistency that brought little tangible reward. Adding to the sense of cruel timing, he had been beaten at single-figure odds on every previous occasion, sent out shorter than $5 no fewer than 11 times. Start number 13, an unlucky number for some, proved anything but. Well supported throughout betting, Act Natural justified favouritism at $2.05, finding enough late to hold off Belongtojill and finally snap his winless streak. The relief was evident for his trainer, who praised the patience of the Boxall family while acknowledging the gelding made things harder than necessary. Stokes said the horse nearly found a way to undo himself, but credit where it was due, he got the job done when it mattered. Race circumstances did little to smooth the path. With scratchings altering the early tempo, the speed came out of the contest and the race became awkwardly run. Stokes admitted the initial plan was to settle quietly, but conditions forced a change of approach as the field bunched and the run turned sticky. In the end, the emphasis shifted to simply riding the race as it unfolded, a tactic that proved sufficient.
NEWPericles to Roll the Group 1 Dice Again
Weekend, 5th January 2026
A long-awaited breakthrough at the top level remains firmly in view as Melbourne’s autumn features begin to take shape, with a proven performer lining up for another serious tilt at Group 1 glory. Multiple Group 1-placed Pericles has returned to work in encouraging order, and early planning suggests his campaign will again centre on some of Victoria’s marquee mile and sprint-mile contests. Now under the care of Bjorn Baker, the Godolphin-owned Street Boss gelding has been identified as a candidate for both the Futurity Stakes in February and the All-Star Mile in March. The latter, worth $2 million and run at Flemington on March 7, looms as a natural target for a horse whose profile has long hinted that a major success is only a matter of timing. The most recent reminder of that quality came at the end of his spring campaign when he finished a narrow second to Ceolwulf in the Champions Mile at Flemington. Racing on heavy ground, he produced another strong closing effort to fall just short, marking the sixth time he has placed at Group 1 level from 15 attempts. According to racing.com, Baker has been pleased with what he has seen since, noting that the multiple stakes winner has returned in good shape and is progressing as hoped. Speaking on RSN, Baker confirmed Melbourne would again be central to the gelding’s plans. He said Pericles is back and may head south for some of the early features, adding that he is very happy with how the horse is tracking. The trainer acknowledged the All-Star Mile as a clear option and suggested a path that could see him progress through the Futurity before stepping up to the mile later in the carnival. That pathway is a familiar one. Pericles has contested the Futurity Stakes in each of the past two seasons, finishing second to Mr Brightside in 2024 and eighth the year prior when trained by James Cummings. This year’s running, over 1400m at Caulfield on February 21, offers another opportunity to measure himself against the elite. Since joining Baker, Pericles has compiled a strong spring résumé, highlighted by a Group 2 Tramway Stakes victory, followed by competitive efforts in the Epsom Handicap, King Charles III Stakes and Champions Mile. Those performances suggest the foundations are firmly in place for another genuine Group 1 assault.
Multiple Gr1 performer Pericles (pic: Steve Hart)
NEWRacing SA Goes On the Front Foot Again
Weekend, 5th January 2026
A fresh set of incentives has been rolled out in South Australia with the aim of keeping breeders and owners engaged and competitive, building on a run of recent initiatives across the state’s racing industry. Racing SA has confirmed a significant enhancement to its Racing Rewards Bonus Scheme, with a change designed to remove a meaningful cost barrier for those nominating South Australian-bred yearlings. Announced on the final day of 2025 and effective immediately, the update makes Category 2 and Category 3 nominations free, aligning them with Category 1. The shift delivers direct financial relief of $550 for Category 2 and $825 for Category 3 per yearling, with the amounts inclusive of GST. In practical terms, the move widens access to the scheme and reduces the upfront outlay for breeders and nominators looking to keep their stock eligible for bonuses. Racing SA’s Racing Rewards Bonus Scheme distributes approximately $3 million each year, with payments flowing not only to breeders and nominators but also to owners, trainers and jockeys. Under the revised settings, all SA-bred yearlings are included, and Racing SA will also automatically register South Australian-bred horses into the scheme via the Stud Book, removing the need for duplicative manual steps and ensuring eligible horses are captured as a matter of course. The changes also extend to those who have already paid for nominations. Racing SA confirmed that where nomination fees were paid for 2024 foals in Category 2 and Category 3, those fees will be refunded, ensuring the policy shift is applied fairly across the transition. The combination of automatic registration, fee-free nominations and refunds has been positioned as a practical support measure rather than a symbolic gesture. Racing SA chief executive Nick Bawden noted the adjustment was a deliberate effort to strengthen the state’s breeding pipeline and support the people funding it. “We want to ensure that our local breeders and owners have every opportunity to thrive. These incentive changes reflect our partnership with the breeders’ association and our dedication to nurturing the future of South Australian racing.” South Australian Thoroughbred Breeders president and Willow Grove Stud owner-operator Ralph Satchell welcomed the announcement, describing it as an outcome of collaborative work between industry and administrators. “I want to express our sincere appreciation to the Board and Staff at Racing SA for their collaborative efforts leading to this positive development, which aims to assist breeders in South Australia and promote the growth and viability of South Australian racing.” He added that as the local breeding landscape continues to shift toward quality broodmare stock, measures like this are important in sustaining growth and ensuring South Australia remains a meaningful contributor to the broader racing economy.
May Your Thoroughbred Cup Overflow in 2026
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Welcome back to the first Black Type Racing column of 2026 which includes well over 30 Black Type race results –see below. During the festive period, each of the major sales companies, comprising Magic Millions, Inglis and New Zealand Bloodstock, has celebrated significant Black Type sales graduate success ahead of their respective immediate upcoming sales over the next month or so. As a regional sales hub, we are blessed to have three separate auction companies that, year in, year out, are responsible for the majority of stakes race performers across Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong. In 2026, New Zealand Bloodstock’s National Yearling Sales Series is a centennial event, one that coincides with another year of spectacular on-track and sales ring success. Before that, though, the Magic Millions Gold Coast Sale, starting next week, is set to establish the tone for the annual yearling market and its concomitant demand. A veritable annual ‘canary-in-the-yearling-coal-mine’, the sale continues to grow in stature, matched by turf performance that all but ensures a massive audience on the 'coast with the most'. In turn, Inglis’ opening gambit, the Classic Sale at Riverside, is proving to be one of the world’s greatest value sales that punches way above its weight ad nauseum. None of the three afore-mentioned sales companies would exist without the support of their vendors. Starting on Tuesday, this column will pay homage to a plethora of Australia’s leading farms whose consigned 2026 yearlings willl invariably contribute to many future Black Type champions. Until then – again – welcome back and buckle up for a feast of stakes race coverage during 2026.
Ninja Delivers Deep Cut in Dazzling Vo Rogue
Weekend, 5th January 2026
A statement performance at Eagle Farm on Saturday reshaped expectations for the Magic Millions Carnival ahead, as a powerful closing display confirmed one 3YO as a serious force among his generation, reports racing.com. The Group 3 Magic Millions Vo Rogue Plate was reduced to a procession in the final stages, with Ninja surging clear to score by five lengths despite enduring a far-from-ideal passage in running. Prepared by Michael Freedman, the MyRacehorse-owned son of Kia Ora Stud’s exciting Not A Single Doubt sire-son Farnan was having his second start back and had to overcome early adversity after being slow into stride. Settling back and wide with only partial cover, he appeared to have plenty stacked against him as Grafterburners dictated terms near the speed. Any concern among backers was amplified when Ninja continued to travel deep around the turn, swinging seven horses wide, but the race was effectively over once he balanced up and let down under Tommy Berry. The popular jockey later explained that a minor delay at the barriers contributed to the awkward beginning, despite the colt standing calmly beforehand. “I don’t even think that was plan B for me. He was so well behaved, and stood in the gates beautifully and quiet,” he said. When the starter called all clear, Berry applied pressure, only for a hold-up to cause Ninja to step forward, then back, before lunging out. “I wouldn’t have liked to have been Michael after 150m, but he’s a very good horse,” he added, noting that Ninja’s inexperience around other runners prompted him to move away from traffic on the bend. “When they’re quickening like that, geez it makes my job easy.” Once in the clear, Ninja lengthened decisively, putting the field away in a manner that immediately firmed his position in the market for the Magic Millions 3YO Guineas, where he now heads betting at $1.80. Berry was quick to credit Andrew Adkins, who has partnered the colt in all previous starts and trials. “To be fair, I’ve got to give Andrew Adkins all of the credit, I’ve actually never sat on his back before, he’s done all the work,” Berry said. “Fortunately for me I got to reap the rewards today, but all credit goes to him.” The first of a Black Type stakes double for leading industry vendor Segenhoe Stud – the second was Jenni The Fox – Ninja was purchased out of their Gold Coast draft for $380,000. The boom 3YO gelding’s ownership group includes a who’s who of the industry, comprising: MyRacehorse No. 1, Fairway Thoroughbreds, Mr G M Funnell, Widden Stud Pty Ltd, Bundarra Breeding and Racing Pty Ltd, Sledmere Stud, Torryburn Stud, G1G Colts & Breeding Pty Ltd, McDonnell Thoroughbreds, Miss S Kaur, and Mr S Patel.
Ambition Converted into Elite Sprint Success
Weekend, 5th January 2026
A long-held ambition finally crystallised on Wellington Cup Day when elite-level success arrived in emphatic fashion at Trentham, delivering a defining career moment for connections who had never wavered in their belief. The Gr1 TAB Telegraph was the target, and First Five proved equal to the occasion, producing a powerful closing display that confirmed his reputation as a horse of genuine Group 1 calibre. Prepared at Te Rapa by David Greene, the imposing son of Almanzor had been set on a direct path to the weight-for-age sprint after claiming the Gr3 J Swap Sprint on his home track the previous month. That victory emboldened his trainer to lock in the Telegraph as the season’s grand objective, confident the conditions and race shape would play to the gelding’s strengths. Carrying the number 10 saddlecloth, a detail not lost on his camp, First Five travelled south with purpose and arrived primed to deliver. From a favourable draw, Wiremu Pinn allowed the gelding to step cleanly and settle close to the speed set by Lhasa and Party Rocking, ensuring he was always within striking distance. The contest intensified sharply on straightening when Navigator sliced through along the rail and quickly opened a clear advantage. First Five, angled three off the fence, was forced to respond as Grail Seeker emerged late from the pack to apply additional pressure. In a stirring final 200 metres, Pinn drove his mount through the line, reeling in Navigator and edging clear, with Grail Seeker finishing a neck away in third. Emotion flowed freely for Greene as the significance of the result set in, the trainer acknowledging how long the wait for a breakthrough at the highest level had been. He described the win as unbelievable and deeply meaningful, crediting faith, patience, and a loyal ownership group. Watching First Five travel comfortably outside the leader, he admitted uncertainty mid-race, but trusted Pinn’s judgement and strength in the saddle, noting that to win a Group One weight-for-age race at Trentham represented the pinnacle of the sport. Pinn, sidelined by suspension when the gelding won at Te Rapa, admitted he was determined to seize the opportunity this time, even if it meant improvising once the gates opened. He described First Five as a big, strong, beautiful horse and revealed that with little apparent speed on paper, he chose to take control of the race rather than adhere rigidly to instructions. Despite concerns when Navigator dashed clear, he said the response once he released the gelding’s head was immediate and decisive. Bred by Gerald Shand, who races him in partnership with Jenna McLeod and Jackie and Philip Rogers, First Five is out of the six-time-winning mare Payette and now boasts seven victories from 19 starts. His latest triumph pushes career earnings beyond $523,000 and establishes him as a horse to watch among Australasia’s elite sprinters.
Argo Flounders While La Dorada Bounces Back
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Expectation weighed heavily on the the shouklders of favored Argo in the Levin Classic at Trentham, yet it was a familiar filly who reclaimed the spotlight when form and fortune finally aligned. La Dorada returned to her best in the Group 2 feature, producing a decisive late surge that reminded all present why she had once stood atop her generation. Prepared by Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson, the Super Seth filly had already proven her affinity for the circuit when capturing the Gr1 Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes over the same course and distance as a juvenile, a performance that sealed Champion New Zealand Two-Year-Old honours. That promise, however, went temporarily missing during an ill-fated Australian spring where she finished well back in the Moir and Scarborough Stakes before an underwhelming fourth when resuming at Te Rapa. Her trainers suspected she needed the outing, and Saturday’s result vindicated that belief. From an inside draw, Craig Grylls elected against engaging in a fierce early battle as multiple rivals pressed forward over the opening stages. Choosing restraint, he allowed La Dorada to drift back into midfield, but as the tempo eased she found herself shuffled further rearward, with only three runners behind her approaching the home turn. The task looked increasingly awkward, yet a series of openings appeared at the right moment, allowing Grylls to guide her through traffic and unleash the turn of foot that once defined her. “She hopped away okay but there were about five horses that wanted to go hard for the first 100m and I was happy to take a sit, I didn’t want to use up too much,” Grylls said. He admitted concern when the pace collapsed and the field compressed, but persistence proved decisive. “I have just kept on riding her through, it has all opened up, and what a wicked turn of foot she had. She is back to her best. It wasn’t ideal how it worked out but a good horse like that can get you out of sticky situations. She is not big, but she is all heart.” Relief rather than celebration was the overriding emotion for Bergerson, who acknowledged the uncertainty that followed her Te Rapa run. “It was a massive relief, I can’t thank the team enough at home that have done a fantastic job with her,” he said, conceding the stable had been searching for answers. When she became pocketed on the fence with no speed on, he feared the worst, but praised both ride and response, adding hopes that she could now progress toward the Karaka Million. Winner of the TAB Karaka Millions 2YO last season, La Dorada now shapes as a major contender for the $1.5 million three-year-old edition at Ellerslie on January 24. Bred by Chittick Investments and Waikato Stud and purchased by David Ellis for $190,000, she has won five of nine starts, four at stakes level, and nearly $1.3 million. Her resurgence also restores her claims for Te Akau Racing’s slot in the $4 million NZB Kiwi in March.
La Dorado (blinkers) is back in a big way (pic: nzb.co.nz)
Inglis Celebrates 9 Festive Stakes Winners
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Festive racing across Australasia delivered a sustained surge for Inglis graduates, with the momentum capped at Trentham where a sharp front-running display secured the Listed Wellesley Stakes over 1100m. The 2YO filly Lassified stamped herself as the ninth individual Stakes winner produced by the sale company over the holiday period, her half-length margin barely reflecting the authority of a performance in which she was never headed after pinging the gates. Prepared by Andrew Forsman, the daughter of Stay Inside was making her third start in New Zealand and continued a rapid upward trajectory. Raced in the familiar OTI Racing colours, she had been secured for $110,000 from Glenbeigh Farm’s draft at the 2025 Inglis Classic Yearling Sale, having earlier passed through the ring as a $70,000 weanling from Twin Hills Stud at the Inglis Great Southern Sale. Terry Henderson described the result as a thrill for the ownership group, noting that while OTI is not traditionally associated with short-course horses, the incentives within the Inglis Race Series have broadened their buying horizons, particularly through initiatives such as the Pink Bonus. With two wins from three starts, plans are now in motion for Lassified to cross the Tasman for a possible tilt at the $2 million Inglis Millennium on February 7, the prizemoney itself a compelling lure for owners and syndicators alike. Her pedigree story will continue into the ring, with a Russian Revolution half brother set to be offered as Lot 795 at the 2026 Inglis Classic Yearling Sale through Sledmere Stud. The sequence of Stakes success began on Boxing Day at Ellerslie when Well Written announced herself as a filly of genuine substance by taking the G2 Auckland Guineas over a mile. Tackling male rivals for the first time, the Stephen Marsh-trained Written Tycoon filly finished powerfully to score by 0.3 lengths, maintaining her unbeaten record and adding to a résumé that already included the G1 New Zealand One Thousand Guineas. A $28,000 Great Southern weanling purchase bred by David Digney, she has quickly emerged as a standout for Yulong. Australia’s Boxing Day program delivered further reinforcement, with Regal Zeus claiming the Listed Lord Stakes at Sandown for his third Stakes victory, while Tavi Time completed a remarkable double by defending the G3 Summer Cup at Randwick to push his earnings beyond $1.1 million. The following days continued the theme: Amor Victorious returned to winning form in Brisbane, Caffe Florian and Kind Words secured Stakes honours at Gosford, and Queen Zou opened the new year with a G2 Rich Hill Mile triumph at Ellerslie, prompting her trainer to describe the victory as deeply meaningful given the investment behind her purchase. Sydney closed out the run on New Year’s Day when King’s Secret captured the Listed Canterbury Sprint, a first Stakes success for the progressive Shalaa gelding and another timely reminder of the depth flowing through Inglis graduates as the season gathers pace.
Chautauqua’s Half-Brother Claims The Buffering
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Perspective comes easily to a trainer who has seen champions come and go, and while comparisons are inevitable, there is no mistaking the regard held for the latest addition to Peter Snowden’s stable. Newly crowned winner of the Buffering at Eagle Farm, Need Some Luck may not be champion sprinter Chautauqua, also a Berkeley Park Stud graduate, but Snowden made it clear he would not swap him for any other contender bound for the Magic Millions Cup. A polished ride from Tommy Berry set the platform for success in the $300,000 feature over 1400m, with the son of Lovely Jubly asserting himself late to account for a field of seasoned campaigners. The victory carried significance beyond the $174,000 prizemoney, securing a guaranteed start in the $2 million Magic Millions Cup at the Gold Coast on January 17 and giving the stable clarity of purpose for the weeks ahead. “He’s got the golden ticket, we’re in,” Snowden said, reflecting on a performance that demanded a clear step up in class. He noted that this was the first occasion the gelding had been exposed to genuinely tough opposition and felt he responded accordingly, acquitting himself with authority. Acknowledging the family connection, Snowden added that while he may be a half-brother to Chautauqua, expectations are firmly grounded, but no less optimistic for that. Discussion soon turned to conditions, with Snowden conceding that weather could play a decisive role in shaping his gelding’s prospects on the Gold Coast. He described the horse as particularly effective when there is give underfoot, suggesting firmer tracks can dull his brilliance slightly. At seven furlongs, however, the trainer sees the Magic Millions Cup distance as ideal, and believes a wet track would only enhance his chances, allowing him to elevate his performance further. Berry, meanwhile, found time for humour amid a productive afternoon, joking that fellow Sydney rider Jason Collett had enjoyed enough success the previous weekend and needed to share the spoils. That comment came after Berry had earlier partnered Ninja to victory in the Group 3 Vo Rogue Plate, capping a day that underlined his influence on the meeting. Yet he was quick to shift focus back to Need Some Luck, noting tangible improvement this preparation. The experienced jockey explained that it had taken time and patience to teach the gelding to relax, particularly over 1400m, with Snowden giving him a long grounding last campaign to build that foundation. This time around, Berry said, the process has been smoother, allowing the horse to reach the trip sooner and execute more efficiently.
No Secret About Goodwood’s Exciting Prospect
Weekend, 5th January 2026
A breakout black-type win has been met with restraint, with Goodwood Farm graduate King’s Secret set for a measured autumn rather than an immediate leap to the top tier. Joe Pride told racenet.com.au, the rising gelding will be better served building through the grades after taking the Listed Canterbury Sprint (1200m) last Thursday. The Shalaa gelding, a half-brother to Pride’s star Private Eye, confirmed his upward curve by running down the bold frontrunner The Instructor in the season’s first stakes race at Canterbury over the holiday break. That success took him to six wins from 11 starts, and he has missed the placings only once. A three-week paddock spell is the next move, before a likely return in the $250,000 Group 3 Maurice McCarten Stakes (1100m) at Rosehill Gardens on March 14. “He probably comes back and runs in the Maurice McCarten and we will maybe then go to the (Group 3) Star Kingdom Stakes (March 28),” Pride revealed. While The Galaxy sits in the background, Pride is wary of chasing a Group 1 simply because it’s there, noting how quickly a horse can be punished by conditions once he runs well at that level. “I know I could run him in The Galaxy but he doesn't need to get to a Group 1 race this early in his career,” he said. “There is a lot to be said about milking the grades, for want of a better term… You don't get a chance to go backwards later on.” Pride said the Canterbury win also revealed plenty about the gelding’s character when faced with a rival that kept kicking late. “He is a really nice horse and I thought his win on Thursday was super, he was tenacious,” he said. “Gai's horse is a good horse and a hard horse to run down and when he had him under pressure on the corner, I just loved the way he picked up and chased.”
First Five Wins Gr1 Telegraph Handicap
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Riccarton
Race: Gr1 Telegraph Handicap
Winner: First Five (Almanzor-Payette, by Volksraad)
Placings: Navigator and Grail Seeker
Stallion: Almanzor (Wootton Bassett-Darkova, by Marias Mon)
Stud Farm: Cambridge Stud
Race Record: 7 Wins and 4 Placings from 19 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Kingswood Wins Gr1 Zabeel Classic
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Ellerslie
Race: Gr1 Zabeel Classic (2000m)
Winner: Kingswood (Roaring Lion-All At Sea, by Sea The Stars)
Placings: Jaarfii and Legarto
Stallion: Roaring Lion (Kitten’s Joy-Vionnet, by Street Sense)
Stud Farm: Cambridge Stud
Race Record: 5 Wins and 4 Placings from 18 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Ninja Wins Gr2 MM Vo Rogue Plate
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Eagle Farm
Race: Gr2 MM Vo Rogue Plate (1300m)
Winner: Ninja (Farnan-Impulsive, by So You think)
Placings: Smexy and Adorable Thought
Stallion: Farnan (Not A Single Doubt-Tallow, by Street Cry)
Stud Farm: Kia Ora Stud
Race Record: 3 Wins and 2 Placings from 5 Starts
Sales Details: $380,000 yearling consigned by Segenhoe Stud at the 2024 Magic Millions Gold Coast Sale
Well Written Wins Gr2 Auckland Guineas
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Ellerslie
Race: Gr2 Auckland Guineas (1400m)
Winner: Well Written (Written Tycoon-Mozzie Monster, by Sebring)
Placings: He Who Dares and Affirmative Action
Stallion: Written Tycoon (Iglesia-Party Miss, by Kenmare)
Stud Farm: Yulong
Race Record: 4 Wins from 4 Starts
Sales Details: $32,500 weanling at the 2023 Inglis Great Southern Sale and then a $80,000 yearling at the 2024 NZB Gavelhouse National Online Yearling Sale
La Dorada Wins Gr2 Levin Classic
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Riccarton
Race: Gr2 Levin Classic (1400m)
Winner: La Dorada (Super Seth-Gold Fever, by Savabeel)
Placings: Swiss Prince and Argo
Stallion: Super Seth (Dundeel-Salutations, by Redoute’s Choice)
Stud Farm: Waikato Stud
Race Record: 5 Wins and 1 Placing from 9 Starts
Sales Details: $190,000 yearling at the 2024 NZB NYSS
Apulia Wins Gr2 Perth Cup
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Ascot
Race: Gr2 Perth Cup (2400m)
Winner: Apulia (Fiorente-Giannarelli, by High Chaparral)
Placings: Filthy Habits and Forever Boy
Stallion: Fiorente (Monsun-Desert Bloom, by Pilsudski)
Stud Farm: Widden Stud
Race Record: 6 Wins and 6 Placings from 19 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Queen Zou Wins Gr2 Rich Hill Mile
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Ellerslie
Race: Gr2 Rich Hill Mile (1600m)
Winner: Queen Zou (Zoustar-Lady Oracle, by Medaglia D’Oro)
Placings: Son of Sun and Checkmate
Stallion: Zoustar (Northern Meteor-Zouzou, by Redoute’s Choice)
Stud Farm: Widden Stud
Race Record: 5 Wins and 5 Placings from 17 Starts
Sales Details: $650,000 yearling consigned by Vinery Stud at the 2022 Inglis Easter Sale
Kinnaird Wins Gr2 Eclipse Stakes
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Ellerslie
Race: Gr2 Eclipse Stakes (1200m)
Winner: Kinnaird (Home Affairs-Orinda, by O’Reilly)
Placings: Ka Ron and Butler Cabin
Stallion: Home Affairs (I Am Invincible-Miss Interiors, by Flying Spur)
Stud Farm: Coolmore Stud
Race Record: 2 Wins from 2 Starts
Sales Details: $340,000 yearling at the 2025 NZB NYSS
Tellum Wins Gr2 Eight Carat Classic
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Ellerslie
Race: Gr2 Eight Carat Classic (1600m)
Winner: Tellum (Ocean Park-Early Morning Rise, by Fastnet Rock)
Placings: Lollapalooza and Fleeting Star
Stallion: Ocean Park (Thorn Park-Sayyida, by Zabeel)
Stud Farm: Waikato Stud
Race Record: 3 Wins and 1 Placing from 7 Starts
Sales Details: $50,000 pass-in at the 2024 NZB NYSS
Ohope Wins Wins Gr2 Sir Patrick Hogan Stakes
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Ellerslie
Race: Gr2 Sir Patrick Hogan Stakes (2000m)
Winner: Ohope Wins (Ocean Park-Choux Mania, by Redoute’s Choice)
Placings: Origin of Love and Born to be Royal
Stallion: Ocean Park (Thorn Park-Sayyida, by Zabeel)
Stud Farm: Waikato Stud
Race Record: 1 Win and 1 Placing from 4 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Santa Catalina Wins Gr3 Queen Elizabeth II Cup
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Ellerslie
Race: Gr3 Queen Elizabeth II Cup (2400m)
Winner: Santa Catalina (Puccini-Tarentella, by O’Reilly)
Placings: Trust In You and The Odyssey
Stallion: Puccini (Encosta de Lago-Miss Opera, by Paris Opera)
Stud Farm: Mapperley Stud
Race Record: 4 Wins and 6 Placings from 20 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Khanshe Wins Gr3 Phar Lap Trophy
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Riccarton
Race: Gr3 Phar Lap Trophy (1600m)
Winner: Khanshe (Mongolian Khan-Folies Bergere, by O’Reilly)
Placings: Doctor Askar and Enrico
Stallion: Mongolian Khan (Holy Roman Emperor-Centafit, by Centaine)
Stud Farm: N/A
Race Record: 5 Wins and 4 Placings from 16 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Luvnwar Wins Gr3 La Trice Classic
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Ascot
Race: Gr3 La Trice Classic (1800m)
Winner: Luvnwar (War Decree-Pretty Woman, by Pins)
Placings: Secret Attraction and Admiration Express
Stallion: War Decree (War Front-Royal Decree, by Street Cry)
Stud Farm: Inglewood Stud
Race Record: 6 Wins and 6 Placings from 17 Starts
Sales Details: $22,500 yearling at the 2022 NZB NYSS
Kind Words Wins Gr3 Belle of The Turf
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Gosford
Race: Gr3 Belle of The Turf (1600m)
Winner: Kind Words (Written Tycoon-Gracious Grey, by Redoute’s Choice)
Placings: Hyperbolic and Chica Mojito
Stallion: Written Tycoon (Iglesia-Party Miss, by Kenmare)
Stud Farm: Yulong
Race Record: 4 Wins and 8 Placings from 27 Starts
Sales Details: $280,000 yearling at the 2022 Inglis Easter Sale
Ziplock Wins Gr3 BJ McLachlan Stakes
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Eagle Farm
Race: Gr3 BJ McLachlan Stakes (1200m)
Winner: Ziplock (Hellbent-Honolulu Lass, by Hinchinbrook)
Placings: Tornado Valley and Leaves of Lorien
Stallion: Hellbent (I Am Invincible-Volkaspray, by Volksraad)
Stud Farm: Yarraman Park Stud
Race Record: 2 Wins from 2 Starts
Sales Details: $160,000 yearling consigned by Yarraman Park Stud at the 2025 Magic Millions Gold Coast Sale
Storm Rider Wins Gr3 Chinese Club Challenge
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Sha Tin
Race: Gr3 Chinese Club Challenge (1400m)
Winner: Storm Rider (Dracarys-Zeffiretta, by Husson)
Placings: Dancing Code and Patch of Theta
Stallion: Dracarys (Snitzel-Nocturnelle, by Elusive Quality)
Stud Farm: Oakwood Farm
Race Record: 5 Wins and 7 Placings from 26 Starts
Sales Details: $80,000 yearling at the 2022 Magic Millions Gold Coast Sale
Tavi Time Wins Gr3 Summer Cup
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Randwick
Race: Gr3 Summer Cup (2000m)
Winner: Tavi Time (Tavistock-Giuseppina, by Johar)
Placings: Estadio Mestalla and Unspoken
Stallion: Tavistock (Montjeu-Upstage, by Quest For Fame)
Stud Farm: Cambridge Stud
Race Record: 10 Wins and 6 Placings from 28 Starts
Sales Details: $80,000 yearling at the 2021 NZB NYSS and then a $130,000 juvenile at the 2021 Inglis Ready 2 Race Sale
Jenni The Fox Wins LR Black Pearl Stakes
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Geelong
Race: LR Black Pearl Stakes
Winner: Jenni The Fox (Too Darn Hot-Miss Foxwood, by Fastnet Rock)
Placings: Herecomesthestars and Naifah
Stallion: Too Darn Hot (Dubawi-Dar Re Mi, by Singspiel)
Stud Farm: Darley
Race Record: 2 Wins and 2 Placings from 15 Starts
Sales Details: $380,000 yearling consigned by Segenhoe Stud at the 2023 Magic Millions Gold Coast Sale
King’s Secret Wins LR Kia Canterbury Sprint
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Canterbury
Race: LR Kia Canterbury Sprint (1200m)
Winner: King’s Secret (Shalaa-Confidential Queen, by Shamardal)
Placings: The Instructor and Barber
Stallion: Shalaa (Invincible Spirit-Ghurra, by War Chant)
Stud Farm: Woodside Park Stud
Race Record: 6 Wins and 4 Placings from 11 Starts
Sales Details: $100,000 yearling consigned by Goodwood Farm at the 2023 Inglis Easter Sale
Caffe Florian Wins LR Gosford Guineas
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Gosford
Race: LR Gosford Guineas (1200m)
Winner: Caffe Florian (Snitzel-Madame Andree, by War Emblem)
Placings: Mareth and Memo
Stallion: Snitzel (Redoute’s Choice-Snippets’ Lass, by Snippets)
Stud Farm: Arrowfield Stud
Race Record: 3 Wins and 1 Placing from 4 Starts
Sales Details: $400,000 yearling consigned by Arrowfield Stud at the 2024 Inglis Easter Sale
Lonhro’s Queen Wins LR MM Nudgee Stakes
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Eagle Farm
Race: LR MM Nudgee Stakes (1200m)
Winner: Lonhro’s Queen (Lonhro-Queen of The Hill, by Danehill)
Placings: Midnight In Tokyo and Sunset Dreaming
Stallion: Lonhro (Octagonal-Shadea, by Straight Strike)
Stud Farm: Darley
Race Record: 8 Wins and 2 Placings from 22 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Zou Sensation Wins LR Kensington Stakes
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Flemington
Race: LR Kensington Stakes (1400m)
Winner: Zou Sensation (Zoustar-Dame Claire, by Danehill Dancer)
Placings: Steparty and Persian Spirit
Stallion: Zoustar (Northern Meteor-Zouzou, by Redoute’s Choice)
Stud Farm: Widden Stud
Race Record: 9 Wins and 9 Placings from 32 Starts
Sales Details: $150,000 yearling consigned by Widden Stud at the 2021 Magic Millions Gold Coast Sale
Madhi Girl Wins LR Summer Scorcher
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Ascot
Race: LR Summer Scorcher (1000m)
Winner: Madhi Girl (Winning Rupert-Very Angry Gal, by Gingerbread Man)
Placings: Jaz Session and Richanco
Stallion: Winning Rupert (Written Tycoon-Winaura, by Show A Heart)
Stud Farm: Geisel Park
Race Record: 6 Wins and 2 Placings from 15 Starts
Sales Details: $68,000 yearling at the 2023 Magic Millions Perth Sale
Future History Wins LR Bagot Handicap
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Flemington
Race: LR Bagot Handicap (2800m)
Winner: Future History (Showcasing-Likelihood, by Mizzen Mast)
Placings: Wealdstone and Interpretation
Stallion: Showcasing (Carnegie-Clinique, by Dance Floor)
Stud Farm: Haunui Farm
Race Record: 9 Wins and 9 Placings from 38 Starts
Sales Details: 140,000 gns purchase at the 2022 Tattersalls Autumn Horses in Training Sale
Amor Victorious Wins LR Members’ H’Cap
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Eagle Farm
Race: LR Members’ H’Cap (1600m)
Winner: Amor Victorious (Caravaggio-Koizora, by Snitzel)
Placings: Miss Joelene and Victory Win
Stallion: Caravaggio (Scat Daddy-Mekko Hokte, by Holy Bull)
Stud Farm: Coolmore Stud
Race Record: 7 Wins and 5 Placings from 21 Starts
Sales Details: $180,000 yearling consigned by Bhima Thoroughbreds at the 2021 Inglis Classic Sale
Lassified Wins LR Wellesley Stakes
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Riccarton
Race: LR Wellesley Stakes (1200m)
Winner: Lassified (Stay Inside-Exclusive Lass, by Nicconi)
Placings: Sweetest Thing and Out of The Blue
Stallion: Stay Inside (Extreme Choice-Nothin Leica Storm, by Anabaa)
Stud Farm: Newgate Farm
Race Record: 2 Wins from 3 Starts
Sales Details: $70,000 weanling at the 2024 Inglis Great Southern Sale and then a $110,000 yearling at the 2025 Inglis Classic Sale
Mazzini Wins LR Tasmanian Guineas
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Hobart
Race: LR Tasmanian Guineas (1600m)
Winner: Mazzini (Needs Further-Arenzano, by Not a Single Doubt)
Placings: Crack The Shutters and Tempt The Gods
Stallion: Needs Further (Encosta de Lago-Crowned Glory, by Danehill)
Stud Farm: Armidale Stud
Race Record: 5 Wins from 6 Starts
Sales Details: $145,000 yearling at the 2024 Magic Millions Tasmanian Sale
Regal Zeus Wins LR Lord Stakes
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Sandown
Race: LR Lord Stakes (1600m)
Winner: Regal Zeus (Zoustar-Quiet Kitten, by Kitten’s Joy)
Placings: St Lawrence and Detonator Jack
Stallion: Zoustar (Northern Meteor-Zouzou, by Redoute’s Choice)
Stud Farm: Widden Stud
Race Record: 10 Wins and 6 Placings from 32 Starts
Sales Details: $150,000 yearling at the 2022 Inglis Easter Sale
Hidden Wealth Wins LR Falvelon H’Cap
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Eagle Farm
Race: LR Falvelon H’Cap
Winner: Hidden Wealth (Better Than Ready-Miss Stash, by Bradbury’s Luck)
Placings: Fire Star and Pereille
Stallion: Better Than Ready (More Than Ready-Sally’s World, by Agnes World)
Stud Farm: Lyndhurst Stud
Race Record: 11 Wins and 4 Placings from 24 Starts
Sales Details: $110,000 yearling consigned by Kynoch Thoroughbreds at the 2021 Magic Millions Gold Coast Sale
Durazzo Wins LR Tasmanian Stakes
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Hobart
Race: LR Tasmanian Stakes (1600m)
Winner: Durazzo (Needs Further-Arenzano, by Not a Single Doubt)
Placings: Just Cruisin’ and Bank Maur
Stallion: Needs Further (Encosta de Lago-Crowned Glory, by Danehill)
Stud Farm: Armidale Stud
Race Record: 11 Wins and 2 Placings from 15 Starts
Sales Details: $97,500 yearling at the 2022 Magic Millions Tasmanian Sale
One Bold Cat Wins LR Marton Cup
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Riccarton
Race: LR Marton Cup (2200m)
Winner: One Bold Cat (The Bold One-Floozie Cat, by One Cool Cat)
Placings: Tshiebwe and Freddie Time
Stallion: The Bold One (Fastnet Rock-The Jewel, by O’Reilly)
Stud Farm: N/A
Race Record: 9 Wins and 4 Placings from 26 Starts
Klabel Wins LR Christmas H’Cap
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Morphettville
Race: LR Christmas H’Cap (1200m)
Winner: Klabel (Vadamos-Ardere, by Hidden Dragon)
Placings: Watchme Win and Grinzinger Prince
Stallion: Vadamos (Monsun-Celebre Vadala, by Peintre Celebre)
Stud Farm: Rich Hill Stud
Race Record: 7 Wins and 13 Placings from 31 Starts
Sales Details: $120,000 yearling at the 2021 NZB NYSS
Hedged Wins LR Christmas Stakes
Weekend, 5th January 2026
Track: Sandown
Race: LR Christmas Stakes (1200m)
Winner: Hedged (Capitalist-Acing Shamrock, by Fastnet Rock)
Placings: Nadal and Aviatress
Stallion: Capitalist (Written Tycoon-Kitalpha, by Fusaichi Pegasus)
Stud Farm: Yulong
Race Record: 5 Wins and 8 Placings from 22 Starts
Sales Details: $140,000 yearling at the 2022 Magic Millions Gold Coast Sale
