Daily News

Headlines Only Expanded News

NEW Belmont Park Opens Following Redevelopment
Wednesday, 13th May 2026
A major transformation at Belmont Park is set to greet Western Australian racegoers this weekend, with Perth Racing unveiling an $8 million redevelopment designed to reshape both the visual identity and overall raceday experience at one of the state’s most recognisable racing venues. According to racingwa.com.au, racing returns to Belmont on Saturday headlined by the Gr3 Belmont Sprint, but much of the attention away from the track will centre on sweeping infrastructure upgrades completed in time for the start of the winter season. Perth Racing chief executive James Oldring said the extensive redevelopment represented far more than cosmetic improvement, describing it as part of a broader strategy to modernise the club and broaden its appeal beyond traditional racing audiences. Among the most striking additions is a giant 200-square-metre superscreen positioned on the main straight before the winning post, giving patrons a dramatically upgraded viewing experience throughout the course. “The experience now at Belmont will better reflect what everyone should expect from a metropolitan race club,” Oldring said. He believes the renovations have the potential to fundamentally alter public perception of the venue. “I’m hoping these renovations completely redefine Belmont’s reputation as a venue, not only for racing, but also for entertainment. I’m extremely proud of the team for delivering what was originally proposed as a three-year project within about a six-month period.” Oldring acknowledged the speed of the transformation had required an enormous effort behind the scenes but said anticipation was building ahead of the reopening. “It has been a huge undertaking to turn it around in the time that they have, but I’m really looking forward to seeing the reaction from members and patrons when they come to Belmont and see what a day at the races now looks like,” he said. Several areas within the grandstand have undergone extensive redevelopment, including a major renovation of Old Mate’s Sports Bar on the ground floor, complete with a new indoor broadcast screen. A new Vantage viewing platform has also been installed on the second level for owners, trainers and members overlooking the mounting yard and finishing post. Higher within the venue, the Riverview floor has been refurbished to enhance the general admission experience, while the members’ floor has been expanded following removal of the former Champagne Bar. Corporate suites overlooking the Swan River have similarly been modernised, with upgraded roofing and air-conditioning complementing accessibility improvements introduced last year through installation of a customer elevator. The redevelopment follows a period of strong growth for Perth Racing, particularly during the recent Ascot carnival. More than 77,000 patrons attended meetings across the carnival period, with several major racedays attracting crowds above 10,000. Perth Racing said the average age of ticket buyers was just 32, while 57 per cent of attendees were under 30. Attendance and spending trends also continued upward through Quokka raceday, where crowd numbers climbed to a record 8200 patrons. Oldring said younger audiences and a noticeably broader demographic mix were increasingly driving the venue’s growth, with racing now attracting a more inclusive and diverse crowd profile than in previous years.

Racing returns to Belmont Park on Saturday (pic: racingwa.com.au)
NEW Bassalina Attempting Back to Back Ramsdens
Wednesday, 13th May 2026
A patient rebuilding campaign could be about to pay dividends for Basilinna as the durable staying mare attempts to defend her crown in Saturday’s Listed Andrew Ramsden Stakes at Flemington. Twelve months ago, the daughter of Staphanos secured victory in the 2800m feature to earn a coveted ballot exemption into the Melbourne Cup, seemingly setting herself up for a major spring campaign. Those ambitions were quickly interrupted, however, when minor surgery to remove a bone chip curtailed her preparation after just one further appearance. According to racenet.com.au, the setback forced trainers David and Emma-Lee Browne to ease back on their original plans, giving the mare a longer break than initially anticipated and leaving her needing several runs this preparation to regain full fitness. Early efforts at weight-for-age level proved challenging, but the stable has steadily become more encouraged with each performance as the mare builds towards peak condition. An improved run in the Mornington Cup was followed by another honest effort in testing conditions at Warrnambool last week, where she finished within striking distance despite racing on heavy ground that did not suit her. Emma-Lee Browne said the mare had gradually worked her way back towards top form after taking time to reach full fitness. “She’s just taken time to come to hand,” Browne said. “She probably just peaked on her run at Mornington when she came out wide and made a big searching run there.” Browne felt the conditions at Warrnambool made the task more difficult but was pleased with how the mare had come through the race physically. “It was a bit stickier than she would have liked on Warrnambool Cup Day but she’s bounced through it well,” she said. “I thought she finished off well but she might just need it a little bit further now and not quite have as big a weight to carry as opposed to some of the other ones.” Saturday’s Andrew Ramsden shapes as a more suitable assignment under set-weights conditions, with Basilinna avoiding the heavier handicap burdens she has recently carried. The mare is only disadvantaged in the weights against highest-rated rival Changingoftheguard, a factor the stable hopes can help narrow the gap on paper. Browne believes the steady conditioning process has finally brought the mare close to her best. “Through that heavy track, she hadn’t seen one for a little while. I think the race the other day topped her off well,” she said. “I think she’s been coming up nicely even though she’s had a bit of weight to carry. She’s a good doing mare so she needs that bit of racing under her belt. I think she’s probably about there fitness-wise. Hopefully we’re bang on for Saturday.”
NEW Thoroughbred Breeders Federation Chair Departs
Wednesday, 13th May 2026
Global breeding leaders gathered in France this month as the International Thoroughbred Breeders’ Federation concluded its 2026 conference following five days of meetings and events staged across Deauville and Paris. Representatives from 25 member nations and umbrella organisations spanning six continents attended the conference, underscoring the increasingly international nature of the Thoroughbred breeding industry and the federation’s ongoing role in protecting and advancing its interests worldwide. The meeting also marked the end of an influential era for the organisation, with long-serving chairman Kirsten Rausing stepping down after leading the ITBF from 2017 through to 2026. During the general meeting, chief executive Sarah Carmichael praised Rausing’s contribution to the federation and acknowledged the significant progress made under her stewardship. Carmichael thanked the outgoing chairman for her “unwavering commitment, dedication, and passion for the betterment of the global Thoroughbred breeding industry,” while noting the organisation had moved forward substantially during her tenure. Rausing expressed confidence the federation remained well positioned for the future under new leadership. “The ITBF’s work to protect our industry and its participants, equine and human, will continue apace for many years to come. As I retire from my post as ITBF chairman, I feel sure that the Federation is in very safe hands with my successor,” she said. Members formally ratified the appointment of incoming chairman Lord Teddy Grimthorpe, who used his acceptance speech to reaffirm the federation’s commitment to maintaining high global breeding standards. “I am deeply honored that you (the membership) have entrusted the chairmanship to me,” Grimthorpe said. “I will endeavor to ensure that the ITBF flourishes and continues to safeguard and uphold the values of the high standards required for a healthy bloodstock breeding industry throughout the world.” The conference concluded with an emotional tribute to ITBF founder Sam Sheppard, who died in February, while delegates also confirmed India will host the federation’s next general meeting from January 31 to February 6 in 2028.
NEW Senior UK Wagering Adviser Pulls the Pin
Wednesday, 13th May 2026
Fresh turmoil has engulfed Britain’s controversial affordability checks policy after a senior government adviser dramatically resigned from the Gambling Act Review Evaluation Advisory Group, warning the proposed rollout was being pushed forward without adequate scrutiny or meaningful independent evaluation. James Noyes, who had initially supported the concept of financial risk checks, told racingpost.com he could no longer remain involved in a process he believed was failing to properly assess the wider consequences of the policy on consumers, operators and industries heavily reliant on betting revenue, including racing. His resignation comes at a particularly sensitive stage, with the Gambling Commission expected to approve implementation measures at a board meeting later this month despite mounting industry concern. The proposed checks – referred to officially as “financial risk assessments” – have already generated significant opposition within British racing amid estimates they could strip as much as £250 million from the sport over the next five years through reduced betting turnover. In a strongly worded letter seen by the Racing Post, Noyes expressed disbelief that such sweeping reforms could proceed without what he described as meaningful analysis of their practical effects. “As someone who was invited to give expert advice to this process, it astonishes me we have a situation whereby controversial financial risk checks are being rolled out by the Gambling Commission before any meaningful – and independent – evaluation of this policy can be carried out. This is clearly unacceptable,” Noyes wrote. He further criticised the advisory process itself, arguing the group had never been given sufficient opportunity to properly debate how affordability checks might alter betting behaviour or whether they would genuinely reduce gambling-related harm. “The government has a duty to ensure that its legislative proposals are evaluated in an adequate manner. In the case of the Gambling Act review, and most notably financial risk assessments, this has not happened. Instead we have a situation where there is confusion,” he said. Noyes also questioned the reliability of the data underpinning the proposed spending thresholds, warning the figures being used were outdated and potentially distorted by inflationary changes since they were originally compiled. Concerns were additionally raised regarding inconsistencies between credit reference agencies, which he suggested undermined assurances the checks would operate seamlessly and without friction for punters. British Horseracing Authority chief executive Brant Dunshea strongly backed Noyes following the resignation, describing the situation as deeply troubling for the future of the sport. “We commend Dr Noyes for having the courage and principle to resign from this evaluation group over his concerns about its work,” Dunshea said. “We share his astonishment that the affordability checks are being rolled out by the Gambling Commission before any meaningful and independent evaluation of their impact has been adequately conducted.” Dunshea warned the policy risked driving punters away from regulated betting operators towards illegal markets, a concern recently reinforced by a Racing Post investigation revealing mainstream artificial intelligence chatbots were already providing users with advice on bypassing affordability checks and accessing unlicensed bookmakers.
Kheir Could Have the Ride of His Life
Wednesday, 13th May 2026
A dream that has captivated Australian owners for generations suddenly looks far more attainable for prominent Victorian businessman Ozzie Kheir after emerging colt James J Braddock thrust himself into Epsom Derby calculations with a determined victory in Sunday's Group 3 Irish Derby Trial at Leopardstown. According to punteres.com.au, the Joseph O'Brien-trained three-year-old showed grit and stamina to overhaul the heavily favoured Pierre Bonnard in the closing stages, earning his second win from four starts and immediately forcing connections to reassess their international ambitions. Kheir and his partners moved to secure a significant share in the colt after an eye-catching maiden success at the Curragh last November, identifying him as a horse capable of eventually targeting major staying prizes such as the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups. Saturday's breakthrough stakes victory, however, has now opened the possibility of a much earlier assault on one of Europe's most famous races. After resuming with a midfield finish in another Leopardstown Group 3 on April 12, James J Braddock improved sharply stepping up in distance and experience. Sent out at 9/1, he displayed the toughness associated with the legendary boxer whose name he carries, gradually wearing down the Aidan O'Brien-trained favourite late in the contest. Joseph O'Brien admitted the performance had altered the stable's immediate plans, with the Epsom Derby now firmly under consideration. "Before today, we were kind of working towards the King Edward VII at Royal Ascot, but I suppose we have to consider other options as well," O'Brien said."It's probably fair to say the Derby looks a relatively open race. This guy is one of the contenders now, having won a trial. If we did want to go there, he's earned his spot." Bookmakers reacted swiftly by trimming the colt's Derby odds into $26, reflecting the growing belief that this year's edition may lack a dominant standout among Europe's staying three-year-olds. The colt also represents the beginning of a new association between O'Brien and Kheir, whose racing interests have already enjoyed enormous success in Australia, including victories in both the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups. "He's the first horse we've had for Aziz. He's had a lot in Australia," O'Brien said. "This is going to be a horse who hopefully will turn up in top international races through the course of his career, and today was a big step forward." James J Braddock may be a mouthful for racecallers but he might also prove to be a handful for rivals if he heads to Epsom.
Rock Ready to Pump Up the Jam
Wednesday, 13th May 2026
A staying prospect with rapidly rising credentials stamped himself as one of Western Australia's emerging distance horses at Ascot on Saturday when Rock 'N' The Jam completed a dominant hat-trick victory in the Rogan Josh Stakes. Stepping beyond 2000m for the first time in just his eighth career start, the Russell Stewart-trained gelding relished the rise to 2100m and controlled the race from the front before putting a significant margin on his rivals in the closing stages. Under Steve Parnham, Rock 'N' The Jam settled comfortably in the lead and travelled strongly throughout, eventually charging clear to defeat River Rubicon and Royal Law by six lengths on the final metropolitan meeting of the Ascot season. The performance immediately fuelled ambitions for a future assault on the Gr2 Perth Cup, with Stewart already identifying the New Year's Day feature as a long-term target for the progressive stayer. "He's no Rogan Josh but he can go to greater heights next season," Stewart said in reference to the legendary Perth Cup winner after whom the race is named. "That's his last run this prep and I wish they were all that easy." Parnham was equally impressed by the gelding's developing maturity and natural staying ability, suggesting there remains considerable upside despite the emphatic display. "He's got potential and hopefully we're here with a fighting shot in eight months," Parnham said. "He's still learning but just cruised through the gears today. He settled in running and I was happy to let him get into a nice rhythm in the lead." The victory continued a highly productive period for Awesome Rock, whose progeny have been in exceptional form across Western Australia in recent weeks. Rock 'N' The Jam has now helped push the stallion's recent tally to 13 winners in the past month, further strengthening his growing reputation as a reliable source of middle-distance performers. Bred by Alan and Sue Olive's Gold Front Thoroughbreds operation, the gelding was sold for $47,500 at the 2023 Perth Magic Millions Yearling Sale and has now accumulated more than $400,000 in earnings, boosted significantly by Westspeed bonuses. Stewart prepares the gelding for a large ownership group that includes wife Antonella, sons James and Kye, alongside prominent industry figures Joe Silvestri and Neil Irvine. Rock 'N' The Jam is out of Latakia Friars, a daughter of Blackfriars who won over 2000m at Bunbury during her brief racing career. The mare is also a half-sister to Group 1 ATC Champagne Stakes winner Carry On Cutie, while her latest foal is an unraced two-year-old colt named Awesome Mission.
Positive Signs for Mr Brightside’s Return
Wednesday, 13th May 2026
Few horses in modern Australian racing have maintained elite-level consistency as relentlessly as Mr Brightside, and connections are optimistic the champion miler can continue adding to his remarkable record after emerging strongly from a carefully managed autumn break and minor surgery. The Lindsay Park star has not raced since finishing fifth in the Champions Mile at Flemington last November, with the stable opting to bypass the autumn carnival after discovering a small chip in his left fore fetlock that required surgical attention. Co-trainer JD Hayes said the recovery process had unfolded exactly as hoped and the veteran gelding was now preparing to commence another spring campaign. “He’s in good order, the champ, and he’s about to start pre-season,” Hayes told racing.com. “He’s recovered beautifully from surgery and enjoyed a very quiet autumn.” The son of Bullbars has become one of the defining performers of Australian racing since emerging during the spring of 2021, compiling an extraordinary body of work at the highest level. Across the past four seasons, Mr Brightside has contested 31 Group 1 races and captured 10 victories, while his durability and competitiveness have elevated him into rare company among modern Australian weight-for-age horses. Hayes believes the enforced spell may ultimately prove beneficial after years of demanding campaigns. “He hasn’t missed any dances for the last four years, so he’s enjoyed a bit of time off,” Hayes said. The stable remains astonished by the gelding’s extraordinary level of consistency, particularly given the depth of competition he has faced throughout his career. “He’s had 48 starts… when you go through his record, it’s quite phenomenal; he’s only finished worse than fifth once in his life and that was over in Hong Kong,” Hayes said. “He’s been a model of consistency.” Despite approaching his ninth birthday, Mr Brightside continues to show the enthusiasm and professionalism that have underpinned his long-term success, giving the stable confidence he can again perform at elite level this spring. “It will be easy to tell if he’s no longer interested in being a racehorse, but his tenacity and the way that he’s working, he’s as genuine as the day is long, and we’re expecting another good spring from the champ,” Hayes said. “Although he’s rising nine, he didn’t really start racing until he was four, so we think he’s still got a fair bit of life left in him.” The gelding is currently pencilled in to resume in the Memsie Stakes at Caulfield on August 29, a race he won in 2023 before launching another outstanding campaign. Hayes said the stable’s approach remained largely unchanged given the horse’s proven effectiveness at weight-for-age level around a mile. “Because he’s so effective at this weight-for-age mile races, his program is pretty-much set in stone,” he said. “He’ll be running in all those traditional races, the ones he’s competed in for the last four years.”
Key NSW Regional Racing Infrastructure Upgrades
Wednesday, 13th May 2026
A sweeping investment in regional racing infrastructure across the Hunter and Upper Hunter has taken another major step forward with the unveiling of Scone Racecourse's upgraded facilities, part of a broader NSW Government strategy aimed at strengthening country racing and positioning the region as a global thoroughbred hub. Backed by a combined $36 million investment from the Minns Labor Government, the developments form part of the wider Racing for the Regions initiative, which has committed $67 million towards modernising racing infrastructure across New South Wales. Central to the Scone redevelopment is a new state-of-the-art Polytrack training surface alongside extensive stable construction and supporting facilities designed to transform the centre into NSW's largest regional training complex. Racing Minister David Harris joined Racing NSW Chair Dr Saranne Cooke, Racing NSW Director George Souris and Scone Race Club officials to inspect the completed eight-metre-wide synthetic training track and the first of five stable complexes. The all-weather Polytrack has been designed to operate year-round without irrigation, significantly reducing water usage while providing a consistent and safer training surface regardless of weather conditions. Stage One of the stable development has already relocated 113 horses into a modern two-storey "hotel for horses", with a further four single-level stable blocks planned by the end of 2026. Once completed, the facility will accommodate more than 520 horses, cementing Scone's standing as a major regional training headquarters. Scone Race Club chairman Alister Fraser said the investment represented a transformational moment for country racing. "The new Polytrack enhances training safety, reduces weather disruptions, and provides a reliable, modern surface that trainers can use year-round," Fraser said. "It strengthens horse welfare outcomes and improves consistency in training, which benefits the entire industry. This investment is a turning point for Scone and for country racing across the state." Beyond Scone, substantial upgrades are also reshaping neighbouring centres at Muswellbrook and Cessnock. Muswellbrook received $4.2 million towards a revamped grandstand and function centre, upgraded steward facilities and significantly expanded jockey amenities, including an 80 per cent increase in the size of the female jockeys' room. The venue has already hosted the Hunter and North West Country Championships Qualifier following completion of the works. Muswellbrook Race Club general manager Christine Williams praised the redevelopment as a major asset for both racing and the local community. "Each component of the building has a real 'wow' factor – whether that be the floor to ceiling glass windows in the function centre, which allow a magnificent view of the track or the updated and expanded jockey facilities including a common room and spa," Williams said. Cessnock is also undergoing extensive redevelopment through a $4 million grass track renovation and construction of a new sand-based training surface, alongside $7.5 million in stabling infrastructure for 160 horses. Minister Harris said the projects reflected a broader commitment to ensuring regional racing remained sustainable, competitive and economically important across rural New South Wales. "Country racecourses and clubs play a crucial role in developing our champions of tomorrow, and these upgrades will ensure the Hunter and Upper Hunter regions are competitive, grow jobs and offer world class facilities for both participants and the community," he said.

Scone is a pivotal racetrack (pic: supplied)
2026 Kiwi Weanling Sale Underway
Wednesday, 13th May 2026
Preparations are gathering pace for NZB’s 2026 National Weanling Sale, with a 140-lot catalogue now released featuring progeny by many of New Zealand’s leading commercial stallions alongside the first offerings from several exciting young sires. Scheduled for June 25 at Karaka, the sale has continued to build a reputation as an important marketplace for both pinhookers and end users seeking quality stock capable of generating racetrack success and future commercial returns. Buyers will once again have access to progeny by proven stallions including Savabeel, Proisir, Super Seth, Almanzor, Per Incanto, Ace High, Sword Of State and Satono Aladdin, while considerable attention is also expected to centre on first-season sires Chaldean, Hilal, Mr Mozart and Paddington. NZB Bloodstock Sales manager Kane Jones said the catalogue reflected the same level of quality buyers had come to expect from Karaka offerings. “The catalogue features the same commercial quality you would expect at the National Yearling Sale, which provides a fantastic opportunity for pinhookers and investors,” Jones said. “There are a number of high-profile sires featured which is a huge drawcard, as well as a first glimpse of progeny by first season sires Chaldean, Hilal, Mr Mozart and Paddington.” Jones also praised the support shown by many of New Zealand’s leading breeders and vendors, describing the sale as a rare opportunity to secure high-quality young stock from some of the country’s strongest bloodlines. “We’ve been supported by a number of leading vendors and top New Zealand breeders, with a rare chance to buy into Karaka-quality weanlings,” he said. All weanlings catalogued for the sale will be eligible for nomination to the lucrative Karaka Millions Series, including the TAB Karaka Millions 2YO and TAB Karaka Millions 3YO races. Prospective buyers will be able to inspect weanlings during on-farm parades scheduled for early June, as well as at the Karaka Sales Centre prior to the sale itself, with NZB agents available to assist clients unable to attend in person. The catalogue is currently available online and can also be viewed through the Equineline and ThoroughWorks mobile platforms, while physical catalogues are expected to arrive in mailboxes shortly.

Super Seth progeny will be in big demand (pic: Mark Gatt)
Goodwood Aiming to Attract Gobal Clientele
Wednesday, 13th May 2026
Beyond the glamour and global prestige of the Breeders’ Cup, international racing authorities are increasingly focused on creating other elite cross-border opportunities capable of drawing the world’s best horses, trainers and owners together throughout the season. According to bloodhorse.com, few meetings embody that ambition more distinctively than the Goodwood Festival in southern England, where racing tradition, summer spectacle and a relaxed social atmosphere combine to create one of the sport’s most recognisable experiences. Staged annually at Goodwood Racecourse in Chichester from July 28 to August 1, the festival has become a growing target for overseas participation, particularly from North America, as organisers seek to expand its international reach. Goodwood director of racing Edward Arkell said broadening global awareness of the meeting had become a major priority over the past decade. “We need to see the best of the best racing against each other around the world through the seasons and allowing race goers and fans to engage in that top end of the sport that drives audience figures and encourages the younger generation to get involved in racing,” Arkell said. While attracting international runners presents obvious logistical and financial challenges, Goodwood believes the rewards extend well beyond prizemoney. Arkell acknowledged the risks for owners contemplating lengthy travel with horses that may not be suited to the unique demands of English racing, but he also believes racing benefits enormously when participants embrace international competition rather than remaining insular. “You have to make sure that you have the right horse that’s competitive,” he said. “But we all want to see the best in the world competing against the best in the world.” To help encourage participation, Goodwood remains open to discussing travel support with overseas connections, particularly for horses capable of strengthening feature races linked to the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series. The festival hosts three “Win and You’re In” qualifiers — the Nassau Stakes for the Filly and Mare Turf, the Sussex Stakes for the Mile and the Molecomb Stakes for the Juvenile Turf Sprint. American trainer Wesley Ward is among those already familiar with the meeting after previously contesting the Molecomb Stakes with Maven and nearly running Happy Like A Fool before a race-day scratching. Ward said the track’s dramatic downhill sprint course creates a completely different experience to traditional American racing. “It’s downhill, which is unlike anywhere other than Santa Anita, when you go down the hill,” Ward said. “But it’s kind of a wild race. It’s a very fast, obviously, if you’re going downhill, and it starts up on top of the cliff and you go straight down.” Although the timing of the festival during Saratoga’s lucrative summer carnival can complicate planning for American stables, Ward believes the broader experience leaves a lasting impression. “Once you experience it, it’s engraved in their culture,” he said. “Once you get a chance to go over to experience it, you’re going to want to come back.” Beyond racing itself, Goodwood offers an atmosphere unlike almost any other major racing venue, combining rolling countryside, coastal scenery and social entertainment across its vast estate. Arkell described it simply as “a garden party with racing tacked on” — a phrase originally coined by King Edward VII that still perfectly captures the
Injured Star Has Griffiths Pondering What If
Wednesday, 13th May 2026
A Queensland winter campaign that promised so much for Rey Magnerio has been abruptly abandoned, with the talented sprinter sidelined by a hamstring injury that left trainer Robbie Griffiths confronting one of the more crushing setbacks of the season. The six-year-old, who had been building towards a major assault on Brisbane's premier sprint races, was withdrawn just days before last Saturday's running of the Gr1 The Goodwood at Morphettville after the stable identified concerns with the horse's condition. Further examinations confirmed enough concern to force connections into shelving the entire carnival campaign, despite the horse entering the preparation in outstanding form. "It just breaks my heart but if we don't look after him then we've got nothing," Griffiths told racenet.com.au. The injury first became apparent as preparations intensified for The Goodwood, eventually won by Desert Lightning, with blood results indicating the issue was affecting the gelding more than initially hoped. "He just tweaked a hamstring and there were some inflammatory markers in his blood system to say it was worrying him," Griffiths said. "It's hard to win any race like that, especially at Group 1 level, so we're going to send him for a rest." The decision immediately ended plans for a high-profile Queensland campaign that was due to begin in Saturday's Doomben 10,000 before progressing through the Kingsford Smith Cup and ultimately the $3 million Stradbroke Handicap at Eagle Farm. Rey Magnerio had earned his place among the leading winter sprint contenders following another strong interstate preparation, highlighted by a heartbreaking second in Western Australia's lucrative The Quokka. Chasing a second major Perth feature after claiming the Gold Rush, the son of Magnus was narrowly denied by fellow Cranbourne-trained sprinter Jigsaw, whose winning streak extended to seven consecutive victories. Instead of continuing his pursuit of elite-level success in Brisbane, Rey Magnerio will now spend time recuperating at Newington Farm in the Gold Coast hinterland before attention turns towards replicating the successful spring campaign that elevated him into the upper tier of Australian sprinting. Last season, the gelding captured the Gr2 Caulfield Sprint before finishing third in the Listed Century Stakes at Flemington, performances that paved the way for another successful Western Australian raid through the Winterbottom Stakes and Gold Rush carnival. "It's pretty much the same program as last year, except he went to the easier race on the Thursday (at Flemington), instead of the Championship sprint on Saturday," Griffiths said. Attention within the stable has now shifted towards recovery and a potential spring return, but Griffiths still expects Saturday's Doomben 10,000 to be fiercely contested despite Rey Magnerio's absence. He identified Jimmysstar as the horse most rivals would need to beat, while also warning local contender Grafterburners was thriving at the right time.

Ray Magnerio has a hamstring injury (pic: Mark Gatt)
Munce Stable Quietly Confident about Payline
Wednesday, 13th May 2026
Meanwhile, confidence is steadily building inside the Munce stable ahead of Saturday’s Group 1 Doomben 10,000, where Payline will attempt to overturn longer odds and topple a star-studded field in Queensland’s opening elite sprint of the winter carnival. While bookmakers have installed interstate visitors Jimmysstar and Napoleonic as dominant early market elects, co-trainer Corey Munce believes his seasoned gelding is returning to the major race in stronger shape than ever before and is primed to produce a career-best performance. The five-year-old son of Shooting To Win earned his place among the leading local hopes after an excellent second to Splash Back in the Group 2 Victory Stakes earlier this month. Run on a testing heavy track, the performance further reinforced the impression that Payline has returned this campaign in outstanding order despite still chasing his first win since January. Munce believes there are clear similarities between Payline’s current preparation and the sequence that preceded his upset victory in the $1 million Magic Millions The Syndicate earlier this year. On that occasion, the chestnut gelding had first struggled in heavy conditions at Eagle Farm before rebounding dramatically three weeks later under Damian Lane at the Sunshine Coast. The trainer hopes the pattern can repeat itself on a far bigger stage at Doomben, where Payline ran an admirable third in last year’s edition behind Sunshine In Paris and Rothfire. “That was always in the back of my mind but I've got no doubt in the world he's going better this prep,” Munce said. “He's probably going better than ever and his two runs this prep have been above what we've expected. “I think this is going to be his year and I hope it's at Doomben. He's well fit now. “He's probably in the best order I've ever seen him in and I can say that with confidence.” Although victory has narrowly eluded him in recent months, Payline has consistently held his form against strong opposition. Following his Syndicate triumph, he finished third in his title defence on the Gold Coast before backing up a week later to chase home Axius in the Magic Millions Snippets. Another placing followed in the Listed Ascot Handicap at Eagle Farm last month, underlining his reliability at stakes level. The Munce stable has simultaneously enjoyed an exciting rise from emerging three-year-old Brave Monarch, whose recent Queensland Guineas victory provided another significant milestone for the father-and-son training partnership. Produced perfectly by Irish jockey Martin Harley, the son of Brave Smash burst through late to score decisively in the Group 2 contest and further elevate his Stradbroke Handicap aspirations. Despite the Guineas success lifting Brave Monarch’s rating to around 95, a guaranteed place in the $3 million Stradbroke remains uncertain. The gelding is now expected to chase a ballot exemption through the Group 3 Fred Best Classic later this month. For now, though, the immediate focus rests squarely on Payline and whether the durable gelding can convert his consistency into a breakthrough Group 1 triumph at Doomben.
Mafia Can Squeeze Rivals at Kensington
Wednesday, 13th May 2026
Patience and placement are central to the way Mitch Beer believes Mafia must be handled, with the trainer convinced the rugged front-running gelding is now nearing peak condition ahead of his return to more suitable company at Kensington on Wednesday. The five-year-old contests the Kia Northern Region Dealer Of The Year Handicap over 1250m at his third run back from a spell, dropping in grade after tackling stronger Benchmark 78 opposition at his first two starts this preparation. Beer said horses with Mafia’s racing pattern often created misleading impressions when they weakened late after doing the hard work in front, but insisted the gelding’s latest effort at Canterbury suggested he was exactly where the stable wanted him fitness-wise. “It’s hard with those horses that are one dimensional, that jump and go forward and they blow out and you think ‘that’s disappointing’,” Beer said. “You can gallop him and jump him out until you’re blue in the face but he takes those runs to get back to match day fitness.” Beer, who trains in partnership with George Carpenter, explained Mafia historically required several runs to reach full fitness due to his powerful physique and racing style. “He’s a big burly horse, he took a two or three runs for him to hit his best for us last preparation,” he said. “I thought in his last run he just felt the pinch 50m-100m from home so he’ll be spot on.” The stable is hopeful a combination of improved race fitness and a return to Benchmark 72 company can prove decisive. “He gets back to that 72 grade, if he takes a length improvement fitness wise and a length improvement from going back in grade that’s probably enough to have him winning,” Beer said. Mafia already has a Canterbury victory to his name from similar grade during the spring and connections are optimistic further improvement will come once he rises slightly in distance later this campaign. Beer indicated a 1400m Midway race in coming weeks had long been part of the horse’s preparation. “I think he’s coming in at a perfect time of year,” he said. “We were really keen to get him to 1400m this preparation, there’s a Midway 1400m in 10 days.” While Beer rates Mafia highly, he believes the gelding’s ideal niche may sit just below top metropolitan grade. “He’s a talented horse but he’s probably that good solid Wednesday, Friday night to Midway horse,” he said, while also noting the gelding had previously performed admirably behind quality opposition in stronger company. Beer also expects talented mare Sunrise to improve sharply when she heads to Scone on Saturday after an unsatisfactory first-up effort in the Hawkesbury Rush. Group 3-placed during the spring, the mare is expected to thrive through the winter benchmark circuit. “She probably needed that run first-up, she drew one and was stuck on the fence which wasn’t the ideal position on the day,” Beer said. “I’m sure there’s a benchmark Saturday race in her over winter.”

Amarina Farm

Arrowfield Stud

Bell River Thoroughbreds

Clear Mountain Fairview

Lime Country Thoroughbreds

2025 BTR Stud Stallions

BTP STUD STALLIONS

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

A Twitter List by BreedingRacing

Daily News

NEW Belmont Park Opens Following Redevelopment

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

NEW Bassalina Attempting Back to Back Ramsdens

NEW Thoroughbred Breeders Federation Chair Departs

NEW Senior UK Wagering Adviser Pulls the Pin

Kheir Could Have the Ride of His Life

Rock Ready to Pump Up the Jam

Positive Signs for Mr Brightside’s Return

Key NSW Regional Racing Infrastructure Upgrades

Scone is a pivotal racetrack (pic: supplied)

2026 Kiwi Weanling Sale Underway

Super Seth progeny will be in big demand (pic: Mark Gatt)

Goodwood Aiming to Attract Gobal Clientele

Injured Star Has Griffiths Pondering What If

Ray Magnerio has a hamstring injury (pic: Mark Gatt)

Munce Stable Quietly Confident about Payline

Mafia Can Squeeze Rivals at Kensington

2025 BTR Stud Stallions

BTP STUD STALLIONS