A number of Te Akau Racing's headline performers took an important step towards their spring campaigns when they resumed public appearances at Tuesday's Avondale trials, with trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson pleased to see several stable stars back in action after winter breaks. July is traditionally a quieter period for the country's leading stable, but Bergerson said preparations are steadily gathering pace ahead of another ambitious spring, with several of the team's better-known gallopers beginning to build fitness through the trial circuit. Among those returning was dual Restricted Listed winner Damask Rose, who made her first appearance on New Zealand soil since claiming the inaugural NZB Kiwi at Ellerslie before contesting a demanding Australian campaign. Although she was unable to add another victory across nine starts in Australia, the Savabeel mare performed creditably with placings in the Gr3 Matron Stakes, Gr3 Mannerism Stakes and Gr3 Bellmaine Stakes. Bergerson believes circumstances often worked against the talented mare during her time across the Tasman. "Unfortunately, she didn't have the rub of the green in a lot of her starts," he said. "There is no hiding over there, you need everything to go your way, and unfortunately for her it didn't. But we know on her day she is class, so fingers crossed we can get her back to some really good form." After enjoying an extended spell back home, Damask Rose was given a quiet 1000m trial and is likely to continue her preparation at the Group and Listed trials at Te Rapa before a possible return in the Gr2 Waikato Stud Foxbridge Plate. Success there may prove necessary to secure a place in the Gr1 Proisir Plate at Ellerslie, where current eligibility conditions work against her despite her high rating. Fellow Group 1 winner La Dorada also resumed quietly over 1000 metres, with Bergerson indicating the mare has strengthened during her break and could initially be aimed at handicap races while making use of her relatively modest rating. He added that both mares still have another gear to find once race-day equipment is reapplied. "With both of those mares, we have still got the blinkers up our sleeve, which they both race in," he said. "I think when those go on and they get to raceday, they are quite intelligent and they know what they are there for." The stable was equally encouraged by the return of Gr2 Eclipse Stakes winner Kinnaird, who finished strongly to win his 800m heat after being gelded following a frustrating conclusion to his juvenile season. Bergerson believes the procedure has already had the desired effect, with the son of Home Affairs now more focused ahead of a likely return in either the Gr3 Northland Breeders' Stakes or a suitable race at Taupo. Fellow gelding He Who Dares is also nearing a comeback after an outstanding three-year-old season that yielded placings in the NZB Kiwi, Karaka Millions 3YO, Gr2 Auckland Guineas and Listed Sir Colin Meads Trophy despite managing only a single career victory. Another promising performer, Drops Of God, is being given additional time before returning, with Te Akau mapping out a program that builds towards next year's Gr1 Railway rather than rushing her into early spring assignments. While many of the stable's stars continue their preparations at home, Te Akau's immediate attention turns to Te Rapa this weekend where Sense Of Timing and Trouble Maker will carry the stable's colours, with Bergerson optimistic both mares can improve on encouraging recent performances.
Winner of The Kiwi, Damask Rose (pic: Kenton Wright)
Valley Star Signs off Winter Campaign in Style
Wednesday, 22nd July 2026
A campaign built on consistency reached a fitting conclusion in Hobart on Sunday when promising juvenile Valley Star stamped himself as one of Tasmania's emerging young horses with an authoritative victory in the $45,000 Kevin Sharkie 2YO Sires Produce (1380m). Stepping beyond 1200 metres for the first time, the Leanne Gaffney-trained gelding relished the extra distance, producing a decisive finishing burst to defeat Momentslikethese, with All Intrique filling third after race favourite and stablemate Buzzoffski faded late to finish fourth. The son of Widden Valley and Star Terra, purchased for just $7,000 at the 2025 Magic Millions Tasmanian Yearling Sale, lifted his career record to two wins and two second placings from only four starts, while taking his earnings beyond the $100,000 mark. Valley Star and Buzzoffski had become familiar rivals throughout the winter, and the race unfolded in much the same fashion as their previous meeting in the Alexandra Plate, with Buzzoffski rolling forward to dictate the tempo while Valley Star settled comfortably in second under apprentice Kirra-Lee Lane. This time, however, the outcome was markedly different once the field straightened. While Buzzoffski struggled to see out the 1380 metres, Valley Star travelled strongly before asserting his superiority in the closing stages to score with authority. Stable representative Clinton Gaffney said the additional trip had always appealed for the winner. "I always thought the extra distance would suit him today, and he got a nice ride by Kirra," Gaffney said. He acknowledged the distance presented a different challenge for Buzzoffski but felt the attempt was worthwhile before both youngsters head for a well-earned break. "The 1400m was always going to be the concern with Buzzoffski, but she's in great order, and it was worth a crack. We'll send them both to the paddock now and get them ready for their three-year-old campaign." Lane continued her impressive finish to a breakthrough season in the saddle, with eight of her 22 career victories arriving during June and July. The young apprentice credited growing confidence and increasing opportunities for her recent success. "I've got a bit of confidence up now, and I'm getting good support, which is great," she said. Valley Star's performance compared favourably with the older horses on the program, his winning time sitting less than two lengths outside that recorded by Rubbleonthedouble in the 1380m Open Handicap, a race that provided apprentice Tayla Cameron with her first Tasmanian winner. Anthony Darmanin was the meeting's only multiple-winning jockey, guiding Gold Tianna and Merlin Beach to success, while eight different trainers shared the day's honours. There was also a memorable farewell moment for recently retired jockey Siggy Carr, whose first-starter John of Jane opened the card with a dominant front-running victory in the maiden over 1200 metres, prompting Carr to declare: "To put a good maiden field away in the fashion he did, says we've got a really lovely horse and it's really exciting.
Cosmic Crusader Ready for Victorian Launch
Wednesday, 22nd July 2026
A first appearance in Melbourne will open an ambitious eastern campaign for quality West Australian galloper Cosmic Crusader when the Gr1 winner resumes in Saturday’s Gr3 Bletchingly Stakes at Caulfield. According to racing.com, the five-year-old has joined Andrea Leek’s Pakenham operation after establishing himself among Perth’s leading performers for Michael Grantham, with owner-breeder Bob Peters electing to send the son of Maurice interstate to pursue the stronger opportunities available during the Victorian spring. Although the 1200m weight-for-age contest falls well short of Cosmic Crusader’s most effective distance, it provides an important starting point as his new stable begins building towards considerably longer assignments. The gelding has not raced since finishing second in the Gold Rush over 1400m at Ascot in December, a week after producing the defining performance of his career in the Gr1 Northerly Stakes over 1800m. That victory elevated his record to eight wins from 16 starts and confirmed the steady progress of a horse who had been given time to develop through the grades before emerging as a genuine top-level performer. Cosmic Crusader was bred in New Zealand and is by Japanese Horse of the Year Maurice from the Street Sense mare Cosmic Storm, whose racing career was also conducted in Peters’ familiar cerise and white colours. His Northerly triumph supplied Maurice with another Australian Gr1 winner and placed Cosmic Crusader alongside the stallion’s versatile elite performers, a group including Hitotsu, Mazu and Japanese stars Jack d’Or and Geraldina. Transferred to Victoria earlier in the year, Cosmic Crusader has been allowed a measured period of acclimatisation at Pakenham, where Leek and her team have concentrated on preparing him for the different training environment and demands of racing clockwise. Saturday’s assignment is expected to reveal more about how far forward he is rather than determine the direction of his campaign, particularly as the Bletchingly brings together seasoned sprinters at a distance likely to prove sharper than ideal. Nevertheless, his established class and ability to race effectively when fresh should ensure considerable interest surrounds his first Victorian appearance. The broader objective is understood to be a progression towards Melbourne’s major middle-distance races, with a Cox Plate campaign among the possibilities should he reproduce his West Australian form against eastern opposition. Peters has enjoyed notable interstate success with horses such as Arcadia Queen, Regal Power and Western Empire, and Cosmic Crusader now receives his opportunity to add another chapter. His Caulfield return therefore represents less a destination than the opening examination of a campaign designed to establish whether Perth’s latest Gr1 star can carry his reputation onto the national stage.
STRIDES Shaping Racing SA’s Workforce Future
Wednesday, 22nd July 2026
Behind every race meeting is a workforce whose contribution extends far beyond the spotlight of raceday, and Racing SA is drawing on fresh industry insight to ensure that workforce remains sustainable for years to come. Employing the equivalent of 3,522 full-time positions across South Australia, the thoroughbred industry spans agriculture, animal care, sport and regional communities, making its workforce challenges similar to those confronting the wider agribusiness sector. Recognising the importance of attracting, developing and retaining skilled people, Racing SA launched its STRIDES Industry Workforce Development Strategy in October 2025, beginning with a comprehensive survey designed to better understand the experiences of those already working within the industry. The research examined how participants entered racing, how they developed their skills, what support they valued and the issues affecting long-term retention, while also creating a valuable evidence base that can be shared with government, training providers and organisations including Skills Insight to guide future workforce planning. Racing SA’s Clare Lindop said the findings reinforced both the strengths of the industry and the areas requiring attention. “Racing is a great industry to work in, but we need to be honest about the challenges people face so we can develop meaningful support,” Lindop said. “The survey gave participants a chance to tell us what is working and what could make a genuine difference to their working lives.” Personal connections continue to play a vital role in recruitment, with 65 per cent of respondents finding work or employing staff through word of mouth, while the remaining 35 per cent identified social media as their pathway into racing. Although those strong networks remain one of the industry's great strengths, Racing Careers SA has broadened its outreach through schools, pony clubs, careers expos and industry events to introduce newcomers to the wide range of employment opportunities available. “Many people in racing found their first opportunity because somebody opened a door for them,” Lindop said. “We want to keep those personal connections, while making sure people outside the industry can also see the opportunities available.” Training also emerged as a key priority, with almost three-quarters of respondents saying they had learned primarily through hands-on experience, while 88 per cent believed accredited or off-the-job education would benefit themselves or their staff. In response, Racing SA has worked alongside Skills Insight and industry stakeholders to address barriers surrounding course delivery, regional access, practical placements and training facilities. Existing initiatives continue to evolve, including the Racing SA Apprentice Academy, which combines race-riding instruction with education covering fitness, nutrition, wellbeing, financial literacy and media responsibilities, while WorkCover information sessions delivered in partnership with the Australian Trainers' Association help trainers better understand employer obligations and workplace safety. Racing SA has also introduced a scholarship through Sport SA's Marjorie Jackson-Nelson Centre for Women's Sport Program, giving an eligible participant access to mentoring, professional development and valuable industry networks. The survey also highlighted significant pressures facing the workforce, with 40 per cent of respondents either considering leaving racing or uncertain about their future due to burnout, financial concerns and job security. In response, licensed participants can access three confidential counselling sessions through the Industry Participant Support Program delivered by ACCESS Programs, while a temporary Fuel Relief Package distributed more than $160,000 across April and May to help offset rising transport costs affecting participants and clubs. A new three-year agreement with the South Australian Jockeys' Association has also delivered greater certainty through scheduled increases to race-riding and barrier trial fees. “These measures do not fix every issue raised through the survey,” Lindop said. “But they are practical examples of support being provided while the longer-term workforce challenges continue to be worked through.” Insurance accessibility for trackwork riders remains an unresolved issue, although the Jockey Concierge Service has expanded practical assistance for injured riders and their families. Recognition also emerged as an area requiring improvement, with only one in four respondents feeling their contribution was consistently acknowledged. Racing SA hopes greater visibility through the South Australian Racing Awards and ongoing Racing Careers profiles will help celebrate the people whose work underpins the industry every day. “There are people across racing who put in long hours and make an enormous contribution without always being seen,” Lindop said. “Recognition can also mean sharing someone’s story, acknowledging their skills and making sure people understand the work that goes into keeping the industry running.” The STRIDES survey has now established an important benchmark for measuring future progress, with Lindop saying the focus on pathways, practical training, safety, protection and wellbeing will continue to guide the strategy as Racing SA works alongside participants to strengthen and support the industry's workforce.
Calandagan Heads Stellar King George Cast
Wednesday, 22nd July 2026
An exceptional collection of international middle-distance talent is poised to converge on Ascot for Saturday’s Gr1 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, with defending champion Calandagan heading 10 remaining contenders for a race whose value will rise to a record £2.5 million in 2027. According to TDN, Britain’s midsummer weight-for-age showpiece will offer £2 million this year, placing it alongside the Derby as the richest race staged in the country, before next season’s increase establishes it as the most valuable contest ever conducted on British soil. Only the €5 million Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is presently scheduled to carry greater prize-money in Europe in 2027. Calandagan returns as the central figure after defeating Kalpana at Ascot last year and subsequently edging Masquerade Ball by a head in the Japan Cup, achievements which helped secure his recognition as the world’s highest-rated racehorse of 2025. Francis Graffard’s gelding has already made three appearances this season, winning the Dubai Sheema Classic and Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud either side of an uncharacteristically subdued Coronation Cup effort on soft ground at Epsom. Masquerade Ball provides a formidable Japanese challenge as he attempts to become the first horse trained in that country to win the King George. Last season’s Tenno Sho Autumn hero returned with a strong second to Romantic Warrior in April’s QEII Cup at Sha Tin and has been prepared specifically for Ascot. Fellow Japanese representative Wurttemberg adds further depth after missing narrowly in the Tenno Sho Spring, while Graffard may also rely upon 2024 King George winner Goliath. Ireland’s challenge could be spearheaded by as many as four runners from Aidan O’Brien, including Irish Derby winner Benvenuto Cellini, three-time Gr1-winning mare Minnie Hauk and 2025 Derby hero Lambourn. Britain’s hopes include runaway Coronation Cup winner Bay City Roller and Kalpana, who has maintained her excellent Ascot record since finishing runner-up to Calandagan 12 months ago. Andrew Balding believes the mare has reached this year’s race in stronger condition, having worked well ahead of another attempt to reverse the result. Kalpana was denied by only a short head when second to Giavellotto in the Gr2 Hardwicke Stakes at her latest appearance and has never produced a poor performance at the Berkshire circuit. The announcement of the 2027 purse followed Ascot’s release of strong financial results for 2025, when turnover increased 4.8 per cent to a record £118.6 million and attendance climbed 3.7 per cent to 532,956. Ascot will distribute a record £19.4 million in prize-money across its 2026 program, excluding British Champions Day, while the King George’s further enhancement underlines the racecourse’s determination to attract the finest international horses to Britain’s premier all-aged contest.
Reigning world champion Calandagan (pic: The Aga Khan Studs)
Equine Eyes Reveals Horse Behaviour Perspective
Wednesday, 22nd July 2026
A pioneering blend of technology, education and scientific research will offer visitors an opportunity to experience the world through equine vision when the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame unveils its innovative Equine Eyes exhibit during an open house at Saratoga on July 23. Located opposite one of America's most celebrated racecourses, the museum will introduce the immersive attraction between 10am and noon, inviting the public to explore how horses perceive their surroundings through an interactive, research-based experience developed to encourage greater empathy, improved safety awareness and a deeper appreciation of the relationship between humans and horses. Made possible through funding from the Thoroughbred Education Research Foundation, according to bloodhorse.com, the project centres on a specially designed headset incorporating mounted cameras that recreates key aspects of equine vision, allowing participants to appreciate the substantial differences between how horses and humans interpret colour, movement and their surrounding environment. Rather than serving simply as a technological novelty, the exhibit has been designed to spark discussion about the way horses experience the world and how that understanding can influence the manner in which they are handled, trained and cared for. Museum director Cate Masterson said the institution was delighted to partner with the exhibit's creator, Dr Alan Hook, to bring the concept to Saratoga. "We are excited to collaborate with Dr. Alan Hook to implement Equine Eyes as an innovative educational experience at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame," Masterson said. "This immersive technology will allow visitors to see the world from a horse's perspective, fostering a deeper understanding of equine vision, behavior, and interspecies relationships. This interactive exhibit will be integrated into our education and outreach programs, contributing to our mission of engaging audiences with the history, science, and culture of horse racing." Hook, a senior lecturer in Interactive Media at Ulster University in Northern Ireland, will conduct a live demonstration alongside fellow researcher Dr Jennie Carlsten during the launch. His work has been exhibited throughout Europe, the United States and China, with his academic interests focused on developing playful, immersive and participatory experiences that encourage people to reconsider their relationship with the natural world while forming new connections with animals, plants and one another. Equine Eyes emerged from that research as an experimental design project intended to deepen understanding of horses and foster new forms of kinship through shared experience rather than observation alone. Carlsten, also a lecturer and researcher at Ulster University, brings expertise in metamodern screen aesthetics, analogue practice, emotional affect and audience engagement, having previously contributed to community cinema research for the British Film Institute Film Audience Network and delivered Heritage Lottery-supported workshops for the Prisons Memory Archive. Together, their collaboration reflects an innovative approach to equine education, combining academic research, immersive media and practical learning to help visitors gain a richer appreciation of the remarkable way horses experience the world.
Widdup Secures Second Straight Hawkesbury Crown
Wednesday, 22nd July 2026
Home-track success has again carried Brad Widdup to the Hawkesbury trainers’ premiership, with a final-day double allowing the local horseman to secure the title for a second consecutive season, reports racingnsw.com.au. Widdup began Sunday’s seven-race program locked with Chris Waller on 14 winners but removed any uncertainty immediately when promising three-year-old Viva Macaco captured the opening 1100m maiden under Chad Schofield. Longinus completed the stable’s double three races later in the 2000m Class 1 and Maiden Plate, lifting Widdup’s Hawkesbury tally to 16 and leaving him two wins clear of Waller, the same margin by which he claimed the previous season’s championship. The two victories also took Widdup to 64 winners across all venues during 2025-26, improving on his total of 63 from the preceding campaign. Viva Macaco, sent out at $3, justified the stable’s opinion of him with another polished performance, although his success may prove his final Australian appearance. Purchased for $375,000 by George Moore Bloodstock at the 2025 Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale, the Hong Kong-owned gelding has now satisfied the requirements for export and is expected to continue his career overseas. Widdup described the young horse as an exciting prospect and also revealed that stablemate Levelling Up had qualified for Hong Kong after winning at Newcastle’s Beaumont circuit last December. Longinus supplied a contrasting story of patience and problem-solving. The five-year-old arrived at Widdup’s stable in 2024 after completing four trials for a leading Sydney yard without making his race debut. He won a Canberra maiden over 1400m at his third start for the Hawkesbury trainer, but persistent difficulties prevented Widdup from preparing him satisfactorily during his next campaign. A scintigraphy examination arranged by the owners identified a hot spot in the gelding’s neck, suggesting an issue that had been troubling him for an extended period. Treatment with cortisone produced the desired response and Longinus has since returned in improved order, with his Hawkesbury victory at his first attempt over 2000m encouraging hopes that he can develop into an effective middle-distance performer. Widdup narrowly missed completing a treble when Seven Days encountered repeated interference before finishing second as the $3.50 favourite in the Benchmark 64 Handicap over 1100m. The stewards reported that Seven Days was denied an inside run near the 300m before becoming awkwardly positioned on heels while attempting to shift into the clear. Provincial stables dominated Hawkesbury’s Family Funday meeting, winning six of the seven races. Local trainers supplied five of those victories, with Mitch and Desiree Kearney successful through $19 chance Share The Joy, Ed Cummings scoring with Flying From Above and Matt Vella preparing Twinkling Star. Wyong trainers Sara Ryan and Tracey Bartley completed the provincial haul with Sirius Moss and Last Druid respectively, but the day belonged principally to Widdup, whose decisive double delivered another satisfying reward for his family, owners and stable staff.
Amaroo Star Sends Strong Belmont Warning
Wednesday, 22nd July 2026
A polished performance against proven opposition has signalled that promising sprinter Amaroo Star is ready to pick up where he left off, producing the quickest trial of the morning at Belmont as preparations continue for a return to racing. The Simon Miller-trained four-year-old made the most of an inside barrier in Monday’s 1000m fast-class heat, beginning sharply to establish a comfortable one-length advantage over accomplished sprinter Sensessional in the early stages before apprentice Giaan O’Donnell allowed him to coast through the remainder of the trial. Without being fully extended, Amaroo Star stopped the clock in 59.80 seconds, comfortably the fastest time recorded during the session, while finishing a half-length ahead of Sensessional, with Sherpa Express another length away in third. The quality of the form behind the winner added considerable merit to the performance, with both Sensessional and Sherpa Express having filled placings in Listed company at their previous two starts, reinforcing the regard in which the emerging gelding is held. Trainer Simon Miller was pleased with what he saw from the 80-rated galloper, who enjoyed a breakout campaign during his previous preparation when he won his opening three starts before concluding his campaign with a sixth placing in late February. "He’s in for a good prep," Miller said. "He’s a consistent horse and I’m not sure if he’ll trial again or race, but he’ll need a claim if he races." Miller indicated the stable's focus is firmly on the $100,000 Jolly Beggar Stakes (1000m) on August 29, with the latest trial suggesting Amaroo Star has returned in excellent order. The trainer said the gelding had settled noticeably this campaign, a factor reflected in both his work at home and his composed display under race-like conditions. "He’s a lot quieter at home this time around," Miller said. "He had been working well, so it’s no surprise he trialled so well." Miller will also be represented at Belmont this Saturday by Madhi Girl in the Listed H G Bolton Sprint (1200m), a race that could prove her farewell appearance for existing connections. The mare, whose career earnings have climbed to $450,000, has been entered for an online sale commencing on Friday before closing the following Wednesday. Another eye-catching performance from Monday’s trials came courtesy of Niccimota, whose trademark speed again proved decisive as the Nicconi four-year-old surged clear to score by almost eight lengths in the second-fastest time of the morning after establishing a narrow lead approaching the home turn before accelerating powerfully through the line.
WA-based stallion Sessions is the sire of Ameroo Star (pic: Oakland Park Stud)
Script Could be Flipped by Pier Pressure
Wednesday, 22nd July 2026
A narrow defeat at their latest meeting has set up an intriguing Canterbury rematch, with the Kris Lees-trained Pier Pressure (Pierata) poised to renew her rivalry with Kenmare Bay (New Bay) in the Benchmark 72 Handicap over 1580m, suggests racenet.com.au. Three weeks ago, Pier Pressure endured a demanding passage when caught three-wide outside the leaders, yet fought strongly as Kenmare Bay, who had enjoyed cover a couple of lengths behind her, launched down the outside to prevail by little more than a nose. Lees’ racing manager Danny Greer was encouraged by the mare’s resilience and believes she has continued to improve since that performance. “She toughed it out last start. She was really good. Unfortunate to get narrowly beaten but her effort was very good,” Greer said. Having returned from an extended absence, Pier Pressure has now had two runs and the stable expects her to be nearing peak condition as she attempts to reverse the result. Apprentice Will Stanley retains the ride, although barrier nine presents another tactical challenge, particularly with Kenmare Bay drawn more favourably in gate four. Greer said the early stages would be important if Pier Pressure is to secure a suitable position without again covering excessive ground. “She’s got a bit of a tricky draw again with the weight, so she’ll need a bit of luck in the early stages to find a spot,” he said. Pier Pressure has also been nominated for a Saturday assignment, with the Lees stable intending to assess both options before confirming where she runs. Canterbury could also provide a useful examination for stablemate Oakfield Neptune, who arrives in strong form after two wins and a close second from three starts on her home track at Newcastle this preparation. The four-year-old mare steps into metropolitan company for the first time in the Benchmark 72 Handicap over 1200m, and while the stronger grade is not considered a major concern, her wide barrier is the principal obstacle. Oakfield Neptune has shown an ability to cope with rain-affected ground and has continued to progress through the grades, giving the stable confidence that she can remain competitive as the opposition becomes more demanding. Her consistency provides a solid platform for the move to city racing, but the draw is likely to require patience and a favourable passage if she is to extend a productive campaign. With Pier Pressure seeking compensation for a luckless defeat and Oakfield Neptune attempting to translate Newcastle form to Canterbury, Lees heads to the meeting with two mares whose prospects may depend heavily on race shape and early positioning.
