Time and mortality have proven no match for Snitzel’s influence, with the late Arrowfield titan continuing to shape the Australian racing landscape months after his death. In the latest example of his posthumous legacy, 5YO gelding Yorkshire stormed to victory in Saturday’s $250,000 Festival Stakes (1500m, Gr3) at Rosehill, bringing Snitzel’s career tally to 163 stakes winners – and 10 at Group or Listed level since June alone. The comeback win was particularly poignant. Yorkshire had been diagnosed with cardiac arrhythmia just two weeks earlier after being eased down in The Hunter at Newcastle. But under the careful watch of trainers John O’Shea and Tom Charlton, and aided by a tactically faultless ride from Zac Lloyd, the gelding returned to his best. Jumping from the inside gate, he dictated from the outset and outlasted Arctic Glamour and Melody Again in a front-running masterclass. “It was very important to jump like we did,” said Lloyd. “Especially when you’re on a horse that likes to gallop from barrier one. Executing is so important, and he did that today. Watching the replay, he stretched them right out, but it didn’t feel like that underneath me, he just felt like he was in a rhythm, and when he does that he’s a very good horse.” Bred by S F Bloodstock and purchased for $575,000 by PR Funds from Newgate Farm at Inglis Easter, Yorkshire (ex Chanteline by Majesticperfection) has now won 7 of his 10 starts and returned most of his purchase price. Connections will now aim higher again, with the $2 million The Ingham (Gr2, 1600m) at Randwick on December 13 next in line. Snitzel’s fingerprints were found elsewhere on the weekend, with two promising Sydney winners further extending his reach. At Canterbury on Friday night, 3YO filly Caffe Florian (ex Madame Andree by War Emblem) posted an impressive two-length win at just her second start for trainer Richard Litt and owners Ottavio and Wendy Galletta. Bred and sold by Arrowfield, the commercially-pedigreed filly is a three-quarter sister to Widden Stud’s young stallion Anders, and Ostraka, and will be followed by a full-sister catalogued as Lot 504 at Magic Millions 2026. Then on Saturday, Chris Waller-trained 2YO debutant Fireball (ex Advance Party by Charge Forward) showed grit to win for the James Harron Colts Partnership. Advance Party has a Dundeel filly entered for Inglis Classic 2026 and foaled a Maurice filly this spring. Snitzel has 37 yearlings catalogued for Magic Millions, including 11 from Arrowfield – proof positive that even in absence, his legacy gallops on. Following the weekend, reigning Black Type Stallion Premiership champion Snitzel has nosed his way into a one-point lead over Fastnet Rock.
NEWHKJC Donates AUD $14 million to Fire Victims
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Following a sombre day of racing in Hong Kong over the weekend, the Hong Kong Jockey Club has donated HK$70.2 million (AUD$13.8 million) to the victims of the tragic high-rise Tai Po fire, reports scmp.com. A minute’s silence was observed before Sunday’s closed-door meeting, which was restricted to owners, stewards, voting members and their invited guests, and there was none of the colour and buzz of a normal Sha Tin meeting. “I want to express my deep condolences to all of those who have been affected by this tragic fire,” said Jockey Club chief executive Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges. “I hope that we conducted today’s race meeting with the utmost respect. We will look at what arrangements we will make for next week because we are of the view that even on Wednesday, even though the period of mourning is three days, I don’t believe that we should go Wednesday to a full Happy Wednesday. “It’s not the right time. We have to be very mindful of the feelings of people. We are of the view that we will admit the public but the activities will definitely not be in normal mode.” The HK$70.2 million donation was the gross income from Sunday’s meeting and the Jockey Club has now donated HK$170.2 million to relief efforts while also providing practical support to families in need. Meanwhile, on the racing front, Pierre Ng Pang-chi is hopeful there is plenty more to come from Majestic Valour after the four-year-old produced a promising debut success in the Class Four 1200m Turf Handicap at Sha Tin on Sunday. After travelling sweetly on the back of a strong pace that came as a result of outsider Joy Capital keeping hot favourite Ever Luck honest up front, Majestic Valour wore Ever Luck down in the straight and pulled away to salute by a length and three-quarters. “He trialled well in New Zealand, that’s why we got him, and we gave him four trials here and he did it easily,” said Ng. Sent off $1.5 after an impressive debut win of his own after running out sharply on the turn last month, Ever Luck won’t lose too many admirers after sticking on solidly enough in a race run more than half a second inside standard through the first 800m. By tasting success at a third straight Sha Tin meeting, Ng moved to eight winners for the campaign and he is hoping to carry his momentum into the Longines Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) on December 14. Galaxy Patch is one of the leading fancies for the Group 1 Hong Kong Mile after winning the Group 2 Jockey Club Mile, while Ka Ying Generation enters the Group 1 Hong Kong Vase (2400m) in good form following his third behind Romantic Warrior in the Group Two Jockey Club Cup (2000m).
NEWDual Japan HOTY Gentildonna Passes Away
Weekend, 1st December 2025
One of Japan’s most beloved champions, Gentildonna, has died at the age of 16, leaving behind a legacy of brilliance on the track and in the breeding barn, reports racingpost.com. A two-time Horse of the Year and a rare winner of the Japanese Filly Triple Crown, she will be remembered not only for her historic feats but for the indelible mark she left on the modern era of racing. By Deep Impact out of Cheveley Park Stakes winner Donna Blini, Gentildonna etched her name into the history books in 2012 by claiming the Oka Sho, Yushun Himba and Shuka Sho – becoming only the fourth filly to complete the Triple Crown. She capped her three-year-old season with a dramatic victory in the Japan Cup, prevailing in a heart-stopping finish over Orfevre. A year later, she returned to defend her title and made history as the first horse to win back-to-back editions of the prestigious race. Her accolades included Horse of the Year titles in 2012 and 2014, the latter secured on the strength of wins in the Dubai Sheema Classic and the Arima Kinen. Over 19 starts, she amassed 10 wins, four placings and more than $18.4 million in prizemoney, earning her a place in the Japan Racing Association Hall of Fame in 2016. Bred by Katsumi Yoshida’s world-famous Northern Farm and trained by Sei Ishizaka, she embodied the blend of stamina and speed so prized in Japanese bloodlines. Ishizaka reflected on her passing with quiet sorrow. “This week is the Japan Cup, and she was a horse I would think about whenever the classics or the Arima Kinen came around,” he told Netkeiba. “Those three or four years with Gentildonna were tough for me, but I’m sure the horse had it even tougher. When she retired, all I wished for was that she would live a long life. I feel nothing but sadness and regret.” He recalled her courage and spirit as a three-year-old. “She gave everything, she really ran her heart out. That’s why I hoped she could enjoy a long life afterwards. It hurts whenever any horse I trained passes away, but she was truly one of the special ones.” In retirement, Gentildonna found success as a broodmare too, most notably producing Geraldina, winner of the 2022 Queen Elizabeth II Cup and the Sankei Sho All Comers. She was retired from breeding duties in July. While her racing days are behind her, her name will endure, synonymous with brilliance, grit, and grace.
NEWMaloney Makes Hay While the Sun Shines
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Opportunities came thick and fast at Doomben on Saturday, and Ryan Maloney made every one of them count. With four winners across the card – including both $160,000 Listed features – the in-form hoop made a strong statement heading into the summer calendar. His big day began with a well-judged ride on short-priced favourite Midnight In Tokyo in the Tattersall’s Classic (1200m). The mare hadn’t saluted in 18 months, but Maloney dictated terms confidently for Annabel and Rob Archibald and let her loose at the top of the straight. “We controlled it and as soon as I released the brakes… I was basically just a passenger,” he said after the 1.75-length win over Lonhro’s Queen. Later in the day, he claimed the Recognition Stakes (1350m) aboard Rockribbed at $7.50, edging stablemate Boomtown Boss in a nose finish after the favourite was inconvenienced late in the run. It marked a strong turnaround from Rockribbed’s ninth placing in the Keith Noud Classic (1200m) first-up. Maloney acknowledged the rub of the green but suggested his mount had earned it. “He began really nicely, just trucked into the straight and I didn’t have any options bar to go back to the inside, but he was too good,” he said. Maloney wasn’t short of humility in summing up the day. “I’ve had a bit of luck going my way with a few of the boys being on the sidelines and I was the lucky one to pick up the, well, not scraps by any means,” he said. His other two victories came aboard Space Tracker ($4), another for the Archibald yard, and Silver Wedding ($1.90) in the opening event for the Ciaron Maher stable. The quadruple took full advantage of Ben Thompson’s absence from the meeting and extended Maloney’s lead in the Brisbane Metropolitan Jockeys' Premiership. With 40 wins now to his name, he moved eight clear of his nearest rival.
NEWBack-To-Back Jericho Cups for Tough Farag
Weekend, 1st December 2025
History beckoned at Warrnambool, and a tough-as-nails stayer answered the call. For the second consecutive year, Aaron Purcell’s iron-willed campaigner Farag claimed the marathon 4415m Jericho Cup, with jockey Will Gordon again in the saddle to notch his third win in the unique feature. Heavily backed late from $3.50 into $2.70, according to racing.com, the New Zealand-bred Sacred Falls gelding carried the topweight of 70kg but enjoyed a smooth run on the speed with cover, navigating a significant change in conditions after stewards opted to keep the race on the course proper due to safety concerns with the usual steeple loop crossing Tozers Road. That decision meant no change of direction during the race, but Farag adapted without fuss, maintaining his spot just off the leaders before making his move on the home corner. As the challengers loomed – with Ferago flashing late at $8.50 to nab second and Guido grinding away into third – Farag dug deep to repel all threats. Unlike last year’s 20-length runaway, this was a scrap to the line, but the result was the same. The victory pushed his career earnings beyond $600,000 and reaffirmed his reputation as one of Australia’s most resilient stayers. For Gordon, the unconventional conditions posed a brief mental hurdle, but his admiration for Farag never wavered. “It was a bit of a worry to be honest, I would have much rather been around the paddocks,” he said of the surface switch. “All the credit’s got to go to Aaron and the team, they just primed him again perfectly. Every year, you hop on him before the race, and he just seems to be at that different level. Earlier on the card, track concerns came to a head after the Jericho Cup Consolation (3400m), won by Sabre Athena ($14) for local trainer Mark Greig and relocated New Zealand rider Portia Matthews. A heavy fall for jockey David Mulcahy, whose mount Matthew Mark ($10) slipped at the Tozers Road turn, saw stewards shift the Cup to safer ground. Mulcahy was taken to hospital with a suspected concussion, though the horse escaped injury.
Overpass Winterbottom Dream Derailed by Libertad
Weekend, 1st December 2025
A blockbuster finish to the Winterbottom Stakes delivered a first Group 1 victory in Trilogy Racing’s colours, with Libertad etching his name into stud calculations after a thrilling drive up the inside at Ascot. Facing seasoned rivals and $21 in the market, the Russian Revolution entire showed why connections never lost faith. Trained by Annabel and Rob Archibald and ridden perfectly by Jamie Mott, the five-year-old followed fellow Inglis graduate Overpass throughout and was one of only a few within striking range as the speed lifted. With the $2.10 favourite edging toward the centre of the track under Josh Parr, Mott seized the gap closest to the rail and surged late to win narrowly but decisively. “He’s now won Group races at two, three, four and five, which is a pretty rare achievement,” said Trilogy Racing’s founder Jason Stenning. “So many of these colts get retired at three and four, so we don’t see if they have the durability to see if they train on into their fifth and sixth year.” Stenning, along with wife Melanie and co-owners Sean and Kathy Dingwall, also own Blue Gum Farm in Victoria – a breeding operation still reeling from the recent loss of young resident stallion Sejardan. “We had a huge loss in losing Sejardan only a few weeks ago,” Stenning revealed. “This win certainly qualifies Libertad to go to stud, but we’ll just let the dust settle.” The son of Russian Revolution (Snitzel) was bred by Rheinwood Pastoral and Somerset Services, first sold for $40,000 at the 2022 Inglis Classic Yearling Sale, then reoffered at the Ready2Race Sale where he made $210,000 to Annabel Neasham Racing. Trilogy later took a stake, and the colt delivered early, winning his first three starts, including the Gr3 Kindergarten Stakes and San Domenico Stakes. After a layoff due to injury, he returned with a Gr2 Victory Stakes win in May and headed west on the back of a strong fourth in the Gr1 VRC Sprint. That Flemington run gave the Archibalds confidence to roll the dice in Perth. “We weren’t in the market, and we knew the favourite would be hard to beat,” said Annabel. “What a great ride by Jamie… The plan was to follow Overpass. I thought Libertad’s run in the Champions Sprint was terrific, and when I saw him Thursday, it was the best he’s ever paraded.” The Winterbottom victory takes Libertad’s record to six wins from 13 starts, lifting earnings and elevating his stallion profile. He becomes the 114th individual Group 1-winning Inglis graduate since 2018, and the 48th sourced for $100,000 or less.
Zahra On Point Again in Testa Rossa
Weekend, 1st December 2025
A bold front-running display under vaunted spring carnival hoop Mark Zahra helped Here To Shock fend off a late dive from Persian Spirit to notch another black-type success in Saturday’s Listed Testa Rossa Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield. With 60kg on his back and age not on his side, the veteran produced one of the grittiest wins of his career, reports NZ Racing Desk. Prepared by the Lindsay Park team of Ben, Will and J D Hayes, the eight-year-old son of Shocking made full use of Zahra’s initiative, cruising to the lead from the outset and controlling proceedings. By the home turn, many behind were chasing shadows, and although Persian Spirit launched late, the leader refused to yield. Big Swinger was more than four lengths back in third. It marked win number 14 from 42 starts for the durable gelding, whose autumn Group 1 triumph in the BCD Group Sprint (1400m) in New Zealand has seen him carry big weights or face elite rivals throughout the spring. Ben Hayes was thrilled with how the plan unfolded. “It was a great ride by Mark. He really helped him out of the gates, got him to relax, got him into a lovely rhythm,” he said. “The little bit of give helped him too. Carrying topweight, and giving a big kick like he did, it’s just a big thrill.” That Group 1 win came with consequences. “He got punished a little bit for winning the Group 1 over in New Zealand and he’s now carrying topweight in every race he goes to,” Hayes said. “He was running against some very good horses and we just thought we would freshen, miss the Flemington carnival and look to target a race like this.” The Hayes camp is now aiming for a return tilt at the $1 million The Supernova (1400m) at Pakenham on 13 December, a race Here To Shock won last year. “He’s definitely put his hand up for that,” Hayes added. “He’s been a great horse for the ownership group. We’ve had a good run with him and it’s good to get another win for them.” Bred by The Sunlight Trust and syndicated by Rob Slade, Here To Shock was purchased for $70,000 from the 2019 Cambridge Stud yearling draft at Karaka’s Book 1 Sale. He is out of the Lonhro mare Frescoes and is a half-brother to Turn The Ace, another prolific winner who claimed a Listed race and nine career victories. With earnings now nudging $3 million, the bay continues to repay his connections with effort and excellence in equal measure.
Ultra Consistent Hustler Sticks to the Script
Weekend, 1st December 2025
A rising force among Australia’s middle-distance mares delivered again on Saturday, with She’s A Hustler showing toughness beyond her experience to win the Gr2 Zipping Classic (2400m) at Caulfield. Tackling weight-for-age company and a mile-and-a-half trip for the first time, the five-year-old proved more than equal to the task. Trained by Grahame Begg and ridden with trademark patience by Jordan Childs, the mare dug in late to hold off Australian Cup winner Light Infantry Man. The New Zealand-bred daughter of High Chaparral sire-son Ace High has now finished first or second in all 11 career starts, boasting seven wins, four placings and nearly $850,000 in earnings. Her latest effort underscored her growing reputation as a genuine stayer with versatility and grit. “She toughed it out,” Begg said post-race. “She came under pressure early. She’s still learning her craft… they came up around her in a bit of a wave. The pressure went on, but she sustained that and was still strong late.” He likened the effort to her run in the Tesio Stakes, where similar mid-race challenges failed to blunt her finish. “She wasn’t well-weighted under the conditions of the race, but you know what, she’s a winner.” The Zipping Classic was her first success at Group 2 level, having previously captured the Gr3 Tesio Stakes over 2040m at The Valley on Cox Plate Day. She returned to run second in the Gr2 Matriarch Stakes (2000m) at Flemington during the final day of Cup Week, again giving nothing away in the closing stages. Saturday’s win confirmed her upward trajectory and opened the door to even loftier targets. Begg hinted at bigger ambitions for 2025. “You have to have those ambitions,” he said when asked about a Caulfield Cup campaign. “She’s a beauty, a winning machine. She’s never finished further back than second in 11 starts – seven wins. How good’s that?” A winter preparation in Brisbane is also on the cards, with the Gr2 Q22 (2200m) an attractive lead-up option ahead of a spring reset in Melbourne. The trainer also praised his jockey’s commitment and understanding of the mare. “He knows how to ride my horses,” Begg said. “To be truthful, he wasn’t going to be riding this week because he injured his wrist earlier in the week. His wrist settled down and he was able to take his rides.” Bred by Rich Hill Stud and sold for $70,000 at Karaka Book 1 to Phill Cataldo, She’s A Hustler is out of Snow Petal, a daughter of Group 1 winner Zirna. She debuted in New Zealand for Roger James and Robert Wellwood, placing behind subsequent Group 2 winner Sterling Express. The rest, clearly, is still unfolding.
The Caulfield Cup beckons for She's A Hustler (pic: Bruno Cannatelli)
TAB and Magic Millions Double Down
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Two of Australia’s most recognisable sporting and wagering identities are deepening their alliance, with TAB confirmed as the new naming rights partner of the Gold Coast Magic Millions Carnival from 2026. The announcement reflects a joint ambition to elevate one of the world’s most dynamic sales and racing carnivals, blending growth, sustainability and global reach into a uniquely Australian spectacle. Already embedded as the Official Wagering Partner of Magic Millions Sales across the country and a key backer of the Magic Millions Racing Women initiative, TAB’s expanded commitment signals a new chapter for the Carnival. Co-owner Katie Page-Harvey described the development as transformative. “We are incredibly proud to announce TAB as the naming rights partner for the Gold Coast Magic Millions January Carnival,” she said. “It is a shared commitment to innovation and the future of Australian thoroughbred racing. TAB has been with us since 2020, supporting our vision to take this Carnival to the world… their increased involvement – particularly in backing our Magic Millions Racing Women Achievement Awards initiative– is a game-changer for the industry.” The partnership continues to be anchored by a high-profile cast of returning ambassadors. “I’m thrilled to confirm the renewals of our entire Magic Millions ambassador family,” Page-Harvey added, citing Zara and Mike Tindall, Billy and Nicole Slater, Nacho Figueras and Delfina Blaquier, and Hamish McLachlan. “They are not just the faces of our brand; they are authentic horse people who live and breathe this life. Zara and Mike bring Olympic and international racing prestige; Billy and Nicole represent Australia’s sporting and breeding passion; Nacho and Delfina embody the elegance of elite polo; and Hamish tells the story that brings it all together. Their collective passion elevates every aspect of the Carnival.” With over a dozen days of racing, sales and equestrian events held beachside each January, the Gold Coast fixture has grown to become a celebration of the horse in all its dimensions, from elite athlete to family-friendly drawcard. “There is an electric atmosphere here that you just don’t find anywhere else,” said Page-Harvey. “Whether you are an owner, a breeder, or a family seeing a horse up close for the first time, we are ready to host you for what promises to be our most spectacular celebration of the horse yet.” TAB CEO Gillon McLachlan echoed the sentiment. “We’re delighted to partner with Katie and Gerry to grow and promote one of our most iconic racing carnivals,” he said. “TAB Gold Coast Magic Millions brings people together… we’ll broadcast globally, activate across our digital and retail network, and celebrate the best of racing on a truly national stage.”
Not Stop Gold Coast Thoroughbred Action
Weekend, 1st December 2025
A heady mix of horsepower, high fashion and horizon-stretching ambition will soon descend on the Gold Coast as the 2026 TAB Magic Millions Carnival prepares to launch its most expansive program to date. Set against a thundering surf and sunlit skyline, this thirteen-day extravaganza will blend the elegance of elite sport with the grassroots appeal of accessible spectacle – culminating in a raceday offering $13.25 million in prize money. Celebrations will begin in earnest on Friday 9 January with the Magic Millions Racing Women supported by TAB Achievement Awards. Held at the Home of The Arts Gallery, the evening will spotlight five state-based recipients with $10,000 Racing Women scholarships courtesy of TAB. The awards aim to showcase the women shaping the future of racing in breeding sheds, sale rings, stables and steward rooms alike. Momentum builds with Saturday night’s Gold Coast Twilight meeting on 10 January, beamed into homes across Australia in a prime-time Seven Network broadcast. Ten races will be contested under lights, with $7.3 million in total stakes on offer, including the $3 million TAB Magic Millions Sunlight (3YO) slot race, which returns for a second year. The following day brings the Pacific Fair Magic Millions Polo & Showjumping at The Spit, where some of the nation’s best junior and senior showjumpers will take centre stage alongside the Queensland Off-The-Track Cup Final. In the afternoon, glamour gives way to grit as celebrity and professional polo players, led by Argentinian icon Nacho Figueras, compete in fast-paced matches beneath the marquees. On Tuesday 13 January, the foreshore at Broadbeach becomes the stage for the iconic TAB Magic Millions Barrier Draw, relocating from its previous Surfers Paradise home. Spectators will once again gather along the beachfront as equine athletes gallop beside the ocean, before connections draw for the $3 million 2YO Classic and $3 million 3YO Guineas. All roads then lead to the Bundall sales complex, where buyers from across the globe will compete for the next generation of stars at the 40th anniversary Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale. It’s a milestone that commemorates four decades of influence, with graduates ranging from Slipper winners to Group 1 globetrotters. Raceday on Saturday 17 January will see Magic Millions graduates vie for a share in $13.25 million in prize money, including $750,000 in Racing Women’s Bonuses. “The Magic Millions is an iconic Queensland event,” said Minister for Sport and Racing Tim Mander. “It’s a global spectacle combining the glitz of the Coast with world-class racing.” Delighted with the TAB’s new commitment, the Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate enthused: “Magic Millions stands alone as Australia’s top race carnival… the 2026 edition promises fashion, flair and unforgettable fun.”
The Gold Coast Twilight meeting on 10 January is eagerly awaited (pic: supplied)
A Swathe of Enticing Prospects on Inglis Digital
Weekend, 1st December 2025
The latest Inglis Digital December (Early) Online Sale serves up a catalogue rich in opportunity, with a headline act that combines a progressive Hong Kong-qualified Zoustar three-year-old, proven Stakes performers and appealing breeding prospects. Bidding is now open on a 287-lot offering that spans 150 racehorses – including 74 race fillies – 70 racehorse shares, 43 broodmares, 17 yearlings, six unraced prospects and a single two-year-old. Aristocrat adds appeal to the racing section as a last start-winning Zoustar three-year-old from the Michael Freedman stable. He announced himself as a juvenile by running the fastest last 200m of the meeting on debut and is offered with a Hong Kong rating of 64. Celestial Bling, by Capitalist, is another standout – an above-average race filly from a commercial family. She was beaten only 0.1 lengths when second in the G3 Gimcrack Stakes as a two-year-old behind Manaal, who has since captured the G1 Inglis Sires and accumulated six Group victories overall. Extra Time adds depth on the broodmare front as a young, well-bred Zoustar mare with an international page. Out of a G2-winning daughter of Sadler’s Wells, and from a G1-placed daughter of Darshaan, she sells in foal to Hellbent with a Maurice colt at foot, offering a ready-made package for breeders. Investors seeking smaller slices of high-end performers are also catered for. Among the racehorse shares are two 5% holdings in the Capitalist colt Hidden Motive, winner of the Gr2 Roman Consul Stakes over a field that included Gr1 Golden Slipper winner Marhoona and fellow Group winners Beadman, Napoleonic etc. The Roman Consul has a formidable record as a stallion-making race, with recent winners including Zoustar, Switzerland, Russian Revolution, Brazen Beau, Exosphere, Cosmic Force, Wild Ruler, Paulele, King’s Gambit, Best of Bordeaux etc. Further upside lies with the Wootton Bassett three-year-old Ruination, out of Daysee Doom. A winner of two of his four starts, he finished second to Attica in the Listed Dulcify Stakes before that rival went on to claim the Gr1 Spring Champion Stakes, and four 2.5% shares plus one 3.8% share are available in the colt.
Tattersalls Frankel Foal Close to European Record
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Blockbuster figures and a headline act by one of the world’s most revered sires lit up the third session of the Tattersalls December Foal Sale, where a Frankel colt topped proceedings at 1,150,000 guineas. That figure marked the third-highest ever paid for a colt foal in Europe and helped generate the second-highest daily turnover in the sale’s history, with seven individual lots selling for 500,000 guineas or more and 31 foals bringing at least 200,000 guineas. The session’s marquee moment came when M V Magnier secured the West Blagdon Stud colt bred by James and Anita Wigan. Foaled in February, the Frankel colt is out of the Kodiac mare Cloudy Dawn, who carried the Wigan silks to Group 3 success in the Prix de Lieurey. A tense bidding battle saw Juddmonte’s Simon Mockridge initially appear to have prevailed with a 1,000,000-guineas offer before Magnier landed the final blow, pushing the price to 1,150,000 guineas – the highest for any foal in Europe this year. “It is a great result for James Wigan,” acknbowledged Magnier. “He is one of the best breeders there is. It is a great farm and has produced a lot of good horses. Frankel is a very good stallion, this is a very nice horse, we will take him home and we will review plans after the summer, but in all likelihood he will go to Ballydoyle. It is a lot of money for him, but when you breed a horse like that the Wigans deserve to get it.” Wigan, whose London Thoroughbred Services had purchased the colt’s granddam In The Mist for 110,000 guineas at this same sale in 2006, was equally thrilled. “I didn't have any sort of figure in my head, I thought he was a very nice horse and deserved to make a good price,” he said. “Frankel gets great bone, great substance, he suits a mare with speed and she was fast. They worked together on conformation. This foal has always been a very nice horse and has a very nice character. You don't expect to sell a horse for that sort of price. I am delighted that M V got him and he has gone to the best possible home – with Coolmore and Juddmonte battling for him, he is going to get the best home whichever!” The colt’s granddam, a daughter of Pivotal, is a half-sister to G1 Prix du Moulin winner Grey Lilas, herself dam of dual French Classic star Golden Lilac. It wasn’t just the colts drawing attention. The session also produced the highest-priced filly foal sold in Europe this year, a Frankel daughter of Tropbeau, knocked down to Henry Lascelles for 850,000 guineas. Offered by Castlebridge on behalf of breeder Lady Bamford, the homebred April filly is a full-sister to a two-year-old in training with the Gosdens and traces back to July Cup winner Frizzante.
Appropriately Named Star Filly Set to Resume
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Tasmania’s summer carnival is set to welcome back a star, with filly Ms Tasmania stretching out stylishly in a Hobart trial during the week. The three-year-old signalled that raceday is just around the corner. Already a winner in five of eight appearances, including the 2024 2YO Magic Millions Classic and this year’s 3YO Cup and Blackflash, Ms Tasmania has not been seen since Launceston Cup Day on 26 February, when she was narrowly beaten in the $100,000 3YO Classic. Trainer Siggy Carr said the break was purely management, noting that “she’s had a few little niggles, but nothing too major.” Carr has worked her steadily through winter and was buoyed by Tuesday’s tune-up. “She’s been in work a long time, though, so she’s ready to go,” she said. Regular rider Troy Baker bounced the filly to the front and controlled the tempo, fending off open-class gallopers to clock 1:01.20 for 1000m. “She’s come back really good,” Baker reported. “I just let her run today, and she had plenty in reserve.” Ms Tasmania is pencilled in to resume under lights at Launceston next Wednesday night, with a Class 6 1100m identified as the ideal starting point before she heads to fillies and mares features in the Summer Racing Festival. “There’s a class 6 over 1100m that will be the kick-off point for her, and then there are races like the Winzenburg, Lady Lynette and depending on how she’s going, the Mystic Journey,” Carr said. The same open-class trial also offered a pointer to weight-for-age form, with placegetters Sushi Express and Kaliuwaa Falls now locked in for the WFA Conquering Stakes (1400m) at Launceston on 10 December. The pair were third and second in this year’s Devonport Cup and look likely to return to that race again in 2026. Earlier in the morning, two-year-olds from the Stuart Gandy and Graeme McCulloch yards clashed in the fourth of eight heats. Gandy swept the podium, headed by Wordsmith filly Too Poetic, and his stable again shapes as a key force in the first two-year-old race of the Launceston season on 10 December.
Another Promising Snitzel Colt for Te Akau
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Last week’s mid-week meeting at Te Aroha produced a performance that hinted at bigger assignments ahead, with a well-related colt finally converting his early promise into a commanding maiden victory. King’s English, prepared by Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson, had been building an encouraging foundation, but the manner in which he dispatched his rivals suggested the penny has now well and truly dropped. By Snitzel and out of Newhaven Park Stud’s dual Group winner English, the colt has always carried a weight of expectation. His dam not only claimed two elite-level titles but also placed four times in Group 1 company, including her Golden Slipper runner-up finish over 1200m. Secured for $700,000 at last year’s Australian Easter Yearling Sale by Te Akau principal David Ellis, he showed professionalism as a juvenile with a win and a second in his two trial appearances. That grounding translated into competitive early-season racing, with placings at Taupo over 1200m and 1100m across September and October. Those efforts did not go unnoticed, and punters were prepared to step in heavily on Wednesday, sending him out a firm $1.60 favourite in the Diprose Miller Maiden 1150. He justified every bit of that confidence. Craig Grylls was intent on being positive from the outset, driving King’s English forward from a wide draw. I’ll Be Home Soon matched him along the rail, setting up a two-horse duel that quickly broke the race apart. The pair cleared out by several lengths, and while the inside runner began to wilt approaching the straight, King’s English only grew stronger. He lengthened smartly to the line, extending to score by 5.75-lengths with authority. Bergerson was quick to underline just how satisfying the display was. “He was electric,” he said. “We thought they had gone pretty hard early, and obviously the other leader weakened off, but he kept going right through the line and he is just going from strength-to-strength this horse. A bit of time between runs he was feeling very well and it was good to see him put in a performance like that. He is putting on a bit of weight and he is certainly going the right way as we head into some nice races potentially for him. It’s an exciting time for the ownership group and hopefully he can go on with it.” Grylls echoed the optimism. “He was impressive. It was pretty easy. He travelled really nice and had a very nice kick on him today. He definitely franked that form today and he is going to be one that goes on with it too. He’s a really well-bred colt, is a good mover and a nice horse in general.”
Newhaven Park's star mare English is the dam of King's English (pic: Steve Hart)
Libertad Wins Gr1 Winterbottom Stakes
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Track: Ascot
Race: Gr1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m)
Winner: Libertad (Russian Revolution-Electric Charge, by Charge Forward)
Placings: Amjaad and Luvnwar
Stallion: Russian Revolution (Snitzel-Ballet D'Amour, by Stravinsky)
Stud Farm: Newgate Farm
Race Record: 5 Wins and 2 Placings from 17 Starts
Sales Details: $40,000 yearling at the 2022 Inglis Classic Sale and then a $210,000 juvenile at the 2022 Inglis Ready2Race Sale
She's A Hustler Wins Gr2 Zipping Classic
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Track: Caulfield
Race: Gr2 Zipping Classic (2400m)
Winner: She's A Hustler (Ace High-Snow Petal, by Bernardini)
Placings: Light Infantry Man and Etna Rosso
Stallion: Ace High (High Chaparral-Come Sunday, by Redoute's Choice)
Stud Farm: Rich Hill Stud
Race Record: 7 Wins and 4 Placings from 11 Starts
Sales Details: $70,000 yearling at the 2022 NZB NYSS
Yorkshire Wins Gr3 Festival Stakes
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Track: Rosehill
Race: Gr3 Festival Stakes (1500m)
Winner: Yorkshire (Snitzel-Chanteline, by Majesticperfection)
Placings: Arctic Glamour and Melody Again
Stallion: Snitzel (Redoute's Choice-Snippets' Lass, by Snippets)
Stud Farm: Arrowfield Stud
Race Record: 7 Wins and 2 Placings from 10 Starts
Sales Details: $575,000 yearling at the 2022 Inglis Easter Sale
Motorsports Wins Gr3 Blue Sapphire Stakes
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Track: Caulfield
Race: Gr3 Blue Sapphire Stakes (1200m)
Winner: Motorsports (Street Boss-Jorda, by Exceed and Excel)
Placings: Recuperato and Regeneration
Stallion: Street Boss (Street Cry-Blushing Ogygian, by Ogygian)
Stud Farm: Darley
Race Record: 2 Wins and 1 Placing from 3 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Eternal Warrior Wins LR MM Merson Cooper Stks
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Track: Caulfield
Race: LR MM Merson Cooper Stks (1000m) Caulfield
Winner: Eternal Warrior (Extreme Warrior-Devout Here, by No Nay Never)
Placings: Stretan Ruler and Alibaba
Stallion: Extreme Warrior (Extreme Choice-Heart Of Thrills, by Show A Heart)
Stud Farm: Rosemont Stud
Race Record: 1 Win from 1 Start
Sales Details: $80,000 yearling at the 2025 Magic Millions Adelaide Sale
Ruska Roma Wins LR Twilight Stakes
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Track: Caulfield
Race: LR Twilight Glow Stakes (1400m)
Winner: Ruska Roma (Super Seth-Sansa, by Makfi)
Placings: Jenni Gone Bonkers and Lyrics 'N' Song
Stallion: Super Seth (Dundeel-Salutations, by Redoute's Choice)
Stud Farm: Waikato Stud
Race Record: 2 Wins and 1 Placing from 7 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Flying For Fun Wins LR Starlight Stakes
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Track: Rosehill
Race: LR Starlight Stakes (1100m)
Winner: Flying For Fun (Spieth-Vol Prive, by Sebring)
Placings: Barber and Front Page
Stallion: Spieth (Thorn Park-Stella Livia, by Titus Livius)
Stud Farm: N/A
Race Record: 3 Wins and 4 Placings from 11 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Aviatress Wins LR Doveton Stakes
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Track: Caulfield
Race: LR Doveton Stakes (1100m)
Winner: Aviatress (Smart Missile-Twin Star Rocket, by Bel Esprit)
Placings: Boston Rocks and Prairie Flower
Stallion: Smart Missile (Fastnet Rock-Comical Smile, by Comic Strip)
Stud Farm: Twin Hills Farm
Race Record: 7 Wins and 5 Placings from 19 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Hot And High Wins LR Sir Ernest Lee-Steere Classic
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Track: Ascot
Race: LR LR Sir Ernest Lee-Steere Classic (1400m)
Winner: Hot And High (Too Darn Hot-High Conviction, by Snitzel)
Placings: Ninetymilestraight and Sherpa Express
Stallion: Too Darn Hot (Dubawi-Dar Re Mi, by Singspiel)
Stud Farm: Twin Hills Farm
Race Record: 7 Wins and 5 Placings from 19 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Toropa Wins LR Jungle Dawn Classic
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Track: Ascot
Race: LR Jungle Dawn Classic
Winner: Toropa (Toronado-Europa Point, by Rock of Gibraltar)
Placings: Amjaad and Luvnwar
Stallion: Toronado (High Chaparral-Wana Doo, by Grand Slam
Stud Farm: Swettenham Stud
Race Record: 3 Wins from 3 Starts
Sales Details: N/A
Here To Shock Wins LR Testa Rossa Stakes
Weekend, 1st December 2025
Track: Caulfield
Race: LR Testa Rossa Stakes (1400m)
Winner: Here To Shock (Shocking-Frescoes, by Lonhro)
Placings: Persian Spirit and Big Swinger
Stallion: Shocking (Street Cry-Maria di Castiglia, by Danehill)
Stud Farm: Rich Hill Stud
Race Record: 14 Wins and 9 Placings from 42 Starts
Sales Details: $70,000 yearling at the 2019 NZB NYSS
