By Scott Bailey Day 2 of the New Zealand Bloodstock Ready to Run Sale saw Malaysian interests remain active ringside, securing another wave of promising two-year-olds from a diverse mix of leading consignors. Buyers from Selangor Turf Club, Charles Leck, Mega Captain Racing and others maintained a steady presence across both early and late sessions, adding depth to the growing list of Malaysian-bound purchases. Highlights from Day 2 Among the standout acquisitions:

• Lot 356 – Time Test – Giggly (St Kilda Lodge → Charles Leck) fetched $110,000, topping the Malaysian-buyer spend for the session with a slick 10.66 sec breeze-up.
• Lot 241 – Farnan – Belavynshi (Riversley Park → Mr H.Y. Cheng) realised $90,000, while Lot 79 – Circus Maximus – Royal Welcome (Leanach Lodge → Joseph Kai Jin Leck) made $65,000 at 10.79 sec.
• Lot 114 – Anders – Slippery When Wet (Kiltannon Stables → Charles Leck) matched that $65,000 mark, highlighting the consistent demand for Australian-sired stock.
• Additional purchases included Ardrossan, Tarzino, Ribchester, El Roca and Per Incanto progeny heading to Malaysian stables and syndicates such as Selangor Turf Club, Mega Captain Racing, Phoenix, India Horse Club / Wattle Bloodstock, and BT Lim.

Malaysian representation accounted for over 44 individual purchases over the two days. The buyers’ list again reflected confidence in tried NZ consignors, speed-focused times, and value around the $30,000 – $70,000 bracket. It is very positive signs for the Malaysian racing community with a strong influx of horses. Here are the lots on the second day that are heading to Malaysia to join the stable population at Selangor.  

241

Farnan (AUS)

Belavynshi (NZ)

Bay Gelding

Riversley Park Ltd

Mr HY Cheng – Malaysia

$90,000

10.67

 

247

Rebel Dane (AUS)

Blue Note (AUS)

Bay Colt

Kiltannon Stables Ltd

Mr Mogana Selvan – Malaysia

$50,000

10.66

 

253

El Roca (AUS)

Call Me Ruby (AUS)

Grey Filly

Westbury Stud

Simon Dunderdale / Pinhook Bloodstock – Malaysia

$30,000

10.84

 

260

Swiss Ace (AUS)

Casa Blanca (NZ)

Chestnut Colt

Westbury Stud

Mr HY Cheng – Malaysia

$100,000

10.56

 

262

Swiss Ace (AUS)

Cashenti (AUS)

Bay Filly

Westbury Stud

Mr Sivan – Malaysia

$30,000

11.24

 

269

Tarzino (NZ)

China Choice (AUS)

Bay Filly

Westbury Stud

Mr Charles Leck – Malaysia

$35,000

10.99

 

274

Anders (AUS)

Coeur d’Amour (AUS)

Bay Colt

St Kilda Lodge

Mr Charles Leck – Malaysia

$50,000

10.71

 

293

El Roca (AUS)

Daly River (AUS)

Bay Colt

Westbury Stud

Phoenix – Malaysia

$55,000

11.14

 

314

Dubious (AUS)

Electrolytic (AUS)

Bay or Brown Colt

Kilgravin Lodge

BT Lim – Malaysia

$60,000

11.69

 

343

Tivaci (AUS)

Florist (NZ)

Bay or Brown Gelding

Ohukia Lodge

India Horse Club / Wattle Bloodstock – Malaysia

$35,000

10.80

 

356

Time Test (GB)

Giggly (AUS)

Bay Gelding

St Kilda Lodge

Mr Charles Leck – Malaysia

$110,000

10.66

 

377

Ferrando (NZ)

Howareya (NZ)

Bay Colt

Westbury Stud

Mr Sivan – Malaysia

$45,000

11.04

 

383

Cosmic Force (AUS)

Imperial Consort (AUS)

Bay Gelding

Riversley Park Ltd

Mr WC Lim – Malaysia

$70,000

10.67

 

384

Super Seth (AUS)

Indomitable (NZ)

Bay Gelding

Prima Park

Simon Dunderdale / Pinhook Bloodstock – Malaysia

$60,000

11.07

 

392

Per Incanto (USA)

It’s Eleanor (NZ)

Chestnut Gelding

Kilgravin Lodge

Mr WC Lim – Malaysia

$60,000

10.91

 

395

Portland Sky (AUS)

Jenabel (AUS)

Bay or Brown Gelding

Riversley Park Ltd

Selangor Turf Club – Malaysia

$25,000

11.04

 

400

Savabeel (AUS)

Joyous Thunder (USA)

Bay Gelding

Kiltannon Stables Ltd

Simon Dunderdale / Pinhook Bloodstock – Malaysia

$40,000

10.86

 

432

Turn Me Loose (NZ)

Lilikoi (NZ)

Bay Gelding

Kilgravin Lodge

Mr Charles Leck – Malaysia

$30,000

10.85

 

434

El Roca (AUS)

Limentis (NZ)

Bay Gelding

Westbury Stud

BT Lim – Malaysia

$75,000

10.89

 

439

Ocean Park (NZ)

Lolla Lee Lou (NZ)

Bay Gelding

Di Leoni Equine

Mr Charles Leck – Malaysia

$20,000

10.84

 

443

Staphanos (JPN)

Ma Belle Ami (NZ)

Bay Colt

Regal Farm

Mr Joseph Kai Jin Leck – Malaysia

$50,000

11.01

 

452

El Roca (AUS)

Margravine (AUS)

Bay Gelding

Westbury Stud

Phoenix – Malaysia

$35,000

11.10

 

453

Ardrossan (AUS)

Masquerade (NZ)

Bay Gelding

Waikato Stud Ltd

Mega Captain Racing – Malaysia

$40,000

10.42

 

460

Sweynesse (AUS)

Micro Explosive (NZ)

Bay Gelding

Kilgravin Lodge

Selangor Turf Club – Malaysia

$30,000

11.07

 

473

Turn Me Loose (NZ)

Montinique (NZ)

Bay Colt

Ohukia Lodge

Simon Dunderdale / Pinhook Bloodstock – Malaysia

$30,000

11.17

Having made history by becoming the first female jockey to ride a Group 1 winner in Japan, Rachel King hopes for another notable achievement in 2025 when she represents Australia in the LONGINES International Jockeys’ Championship (IJC) at Happy Valley on 10 December. British-born King is back for her third crack at the lucrative championship after finishing third on debut in 2023 and joins Great Britain’s Hollie Doyle as the women who will pit their skills against seven other international jockeys and three representing Hong Kong, China. “It’s very exciting to be coming back,” King said. “Obviously, since the first year I came (to Hong Kong, China) it’s something that I want to get my name on the list every year and I’m very honoured to be asked to come back again.” King said she felt lucky to ride a winner, Oversubscribed, in her first year, when she finished third overall to local riders Vincent Ho and Zac Purton, who look set to lead Hong Kong, China’s three-pronged attack again. After finishing with zero points last year, King said she was keen to return and attempt to secure a few winners. She also plans to remain for the LONGINES Hong Kong International Races on Sunday, 14 December at Sha Tin, where she hopes to pick up some rides. “We always have the option to stay and normally I go back to Sydney, but I am going to try to stay and hopefully get a few rides on the Sunday,” King said. “Mark Newnham will be my first contact because (I was) attached to him in Australia, so I’ll be calling him first and see where we go from there.” The allocation of horses in the four-race competition, where points are awarded for the first three places, has worked well, and King believes everyone has a fairly good chance to share in the HK$1 million prize pool, which rewards the winner with HK$600,000, second with HK$250,000 while third takes HK$150,000. “I guess it’s a bit of luck of the draw on the night,” she said. King said it was already a win for her to be included in a star-studded line-up of jockeys, including five previous winners – Mickael Barzalona (France), Joao Moreira (Brazil), Christophe Lemaire (Japan), Ryan Moore (Great Britain) and Zac Purton (Hong Kong, China). “To get the chance to compete against those jockeys is really special,” she said. “I’m happy to be riding for Australia as it’s very much home for me.” After riding in Hong Kong and Japan, King believes travelling and riding in different jurisdictions has helped her to continue improving. “Just different horses and different jockeys and different tracks help to keep you sharp and switched on,” she said. “That little bit of a change always helps, even in Australia for Melbourne Cup week. “Hong Kong is another challenge again as Happy Valley is very unique and I have really enjoyed riding around the track and, hopefully, I can get the chance to ride around at Sha Tin on the Sunday as well.” Making history in Japan with the Group 1 victory aboard Costa Nova in the 2025 February Stakes (1600m) for trainer Tetsuya Kimura, King said it was a reward for the travelling and the effort she had put in. She did two stints in Japan this year – two months from early January to early March and another month during July and August. She will return in 2026. Having competed in 2024 at Royal Ascot, the Shergar Cup, and the Breeders’ Cup in the United States of America, King also rode in Saudi Arabia this year. By Daryl Timms

Selangor trainer, Siva Subramaniam was rewarded with his first Group One success earlier this year when NOAH KHAN took out the 1200m G1 Tunku Gold Cup back in March and the talented seven-year-old will take some holding out in the RM 100,000 Singapore Pools Trophy this Sunday. However, the affable conditioner is a big chance of landing the double feature with inform six-year-old, GOLDEN PEGASUS (1) heading the weights in the RM 250,000 G1 Coronation Cup (Race 6). GOLDEN PEGASUS (1) will be searching for his first group one victory having placed twice at this level towards the end of last season. The Australian bred has recaptured his best form this campaign culminating with his impressive win in the G3 Sports Toto Supreme Challenge Cup two weeks ago. Defeating the highly rated Antipodean by 1.5 lengths, GOLDEN PEGASUS (1) recorded a slick time of 1.21.6, only 0.6 of a second outside the course record for the 1400m. Despite the 60kg and his first run at the Ipoh circuit, he has the class to score in the time-honored classic. GOOD STAR (4) is living up to his name and is building an impressive local resume since his Malaysian debut on June 1. Highlighted by his neck 2nd in the RM 1,000,000 Selangor Mile plus his success in the Listed RM 100,000 Merdeka Cup, the five-year-old son of Shalaa has stamped himself as a group winner in the making. He is coming off a last win in an 1800m Metro A contest where fellow combatants LATIN LEGEND (7) and BIG HEARTED (3) finished 2nd and 3rd respectively in the five-horse lineup on October 26. LATIN LEGEND (7) has conquered GOOD STAR (4) once in three meetings between the pair however, GOOD STAR (4) has come out on top defeating the Irish bred grey by a neck on two occasions, which included the Merdeka Cup run back in August. LATIN LEGEND (7) is ideally weighted on the minimum (52kg) and his quick turn of foot with the lightweight will place him in good stead. BIG HEARTED (3) is a former G1 Singapore Gold Cup winner and at the age of nine remains competitive in the Malaysian high grades chalking up two wins since debuting locally in December last year. Former Kiwi galloper FORTUNE TREE (6) will face his toughest assignment so far but has done little wrong in posting three wins from five runs in the country, including successive Class 3 victories and could provide the value if he’s able to notch the winning hat trick. CORONATION CUP SELECTIONS: (1) GOLDEN PEGASUS   (4) GOOD STAR   (7) LATIN LEGEND   (3) BIG HEARTED  As mentioned previously, NOAH KHAN (2) will be a major player in the Singapore Pools Trophy (Race 10) and will be primed following three runs this preparation. Senior jockey, Y Aify has ridden the gelding on four occasions for two wins and two placings and will be reunited with the gelding this weekend. Coming off a last start 4th in the G3 Sports toto Challenge Cup, NOAH KHAN (2) will be looking to break through at his third run back on the Ipoh circuit. FRIGHT (4) has already created a big impression on the local circuit winning at his first three runs by a combined 14.25 lengths (Average: 4.75L), leading throughout on each occasion. The four-year-old’s colours were lowered last start over 1020m on Track Two in KL but on the bigger circuit, he could be hard to catch in a contest which does contain a lot of early pace. PACIFIC VAMPIRE (1) is another likely leader who steps cleanly from the start before he musters plenty of early pace when balancing up after barrier rise. Hence the lead could be hotly contested by these two promising gallopers which may ensure a quick time is on the cards provided the track is dry. SECRET WONDER (10) is on the upgrade following his 1100m Class 4 win on local debut and appears one of the better hopes among the lower graded performers. The former Australian galloper was well spotted in the local market and duly delivered a half-length victory on September 28. WILAMARA (6), COLONEL SON (7) and BILLY ELLIOT (8) are all handy types in the high grades and are worth slotting into the exotic forms of betting. SINGAPORE POOLS TROPHY SELECTIONS: (2) NOAH KHAN   (4) FRIGHT   (1) PACIFIC VAMPIRE   (10) SECRET WONDER  

Mike and Mathew de Kock will test unbeaten filly Queen Braganza on the turf at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Sunday, where she steps up in a Class 4 Handicap over 1400m. The run will reveal if she’s ready for a tilt at the Grade 1 Cape Fillies Guineas at Kenilworth on 6 December.

A two-time winner, Queen Braganza showed grit when holding off Fascination last time despite giving away 7kg. Though she only received a modest four-point handicap increase, her pedigree suggests she’ll relish Sunday’s distance — and an even bigger test over a mile. The De Kocks already have a Guineas contender in Ovation Star, runner-up in the Gr3 Starling Stakes, and Queen Braganza could soon join her stablemate at the top level.

Among her challengers, Bella Valentina, from the Dean Kannemeyer yard, looks progressive after an easy polytrack win on debut. A strong follow-up could see her supplemented into the Guineas. Stablemate Princess Of Gaul has already stamped her authority with victory in the Gr2 Western Cape Fillies Championship, setting a high bar for the others.

Others to note include Spinmyangelspin, who’s improved in blinkers and enjoys this course, and Mrsglitterthatsparkles, a consistent type who can feature in the placings.

The undercard also offers competitive action. Eastern Highlands stands out in the opening maiden despite a wide draw, while Amber Alert and Captain Ventura are strong contenders. In the PA opener, Blue Poppy and Trail Runner look closely matched. Later, Magic Maverick and Global Movement clash in a tight handicap, and Regeneration appears well-weighted to follow up on her last win.

In the finale, Fascination looks ready to turn the tables on Queen Braganza with a lighter weight, though Thingamabob and Izibulo could also make their presence felt.

Trainer Dean Kannemeyer, a proven force in the Grade 1 Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas, might have his best-ever crop of three-year-old colts — and Gimmie Rules looks the standout. The impeccably bred full brother to Gimme A Prince and Gimmie’s Countess lines up in Race 3 (1400m) at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday as a key prep for next month’s Guineas.

A winner in two of his three starts, his only defeat came when luck deserted him behind What A Fortune. His last victory — a commanding 2.5-length success over Kelp Forest at Durbanville — marked him as a serious prospect. With Craig Zackey aboard, a bold showing here would cement his Guineas credentials.

Jet Force, another with smart ability, provides a genuine test. The Des McLachlan-trained colt impressed when beating Absolutely Yes over this trip and could push Gimmie Rules close. Handsome Prince, though below best over 1600m last time, may fill the placings.

Kannemeyer also saddles Gallic Victor in Race 5 (1950m), a colt still learning but showing strong potential after a fast-finishing second behind Mente Et Manu. He’s one to follow with Zackey again aboard.

Other notables on the card include Elusive Winter in Race 2 (1000m), a trip specialist who looks the best bet of the day after strong recent form for Michelle Rix and Gareth Wright. Mela Strength, partnered again by apprentice Girish Samo-Burthia, can go back-to-back in Race 4 (1400m) after a gritty win over Prince Of Tibet.

Later, Demanding Dave (Race 8) seeks redemption after losing in the boardroom last time, while Inside Voice (Race 9) chases a hat-trick following a runaway 4.5-length win — marking her as one to watch for Vaughan Marshall.

The battle for a place in the LONGINES International Jockeys’ Championship sparked to life at Happy Valley on Wednesday night (12 November) when a host of riders landed blows in the fight for a coveted spot in the annual showcase. It was freelance jockey Matthew Poon who took the biggest step towards the HK$1 million extravaganza as he claimed a double to kick off the evening’s action, moving on to six wins for the season. It continued a rich vein of form for the product of The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Apprentice Jockeys’ School, who has now registered wins in five of the last six meetings. This after being forced to wait until his 70th ride before opening his account this season. With just two weeks until the 26 November cut-off date, when the local participants in the Happy Valley exhibition are determined, the focus in the jockey ranks has naturally turned to qualification for the most lucrative jockey challenge in racing. But Poon was determined to remain focused on the winners that will get him there. “I can’t really think about IJC. I just want to ride more winners, that’s all I want,” Poon said, “but it was a good day. Three winners would have been better, but I still feel good.” Poon struck first after hanging on to claim the opening Class 5 Bedford Handicap (1650m) aboard Lucky Blessing (130lb), who registered his first win at start 13 for trainer Cody Mo. Double Bingo (121lb) transferred some splendid dirt form into a first Hong Kong victory as Poon grabbed a race-to-race double in the Class 5 Cheong Wan Handicap (1200m) for Me Tsui with a wonderfully timed dart to the line, which denied Hugh Bowman on Riding High (131lb). “I’m happy that I could ride another winner for Me Tsui,” Poon said. “That horse (Double Bingo) I’ve ridden a few times, and I’ve only managed second or third, so I was keen to ride a winner for them and was lucky to do it tonight. I feel happy.” Poon is in pursuit of compatriot and former LONGINES IJC champion Vincent Ho in the race for the spot allocated to the leading freelance jockey. Poon trails Ho six to eight following tonight’s meeting after Ho answered Poon’s double with a win of his own when he took out the Class 4 Chinese General Chamber Of Commerce 125th Anniversary Cup Handicap (1650m) on the battle-hardened Turin Warrior (125lb) for trainer Manfred Man. Keith Yeung kept alive his own slim hopes of making the LONGINES IJC cut when he closed impressively to claim the second section of the Class 4 Fat Tseung Handicap (1200m) on long-shot Team Team Folks (122lb). The Jimmy Ting-trained four-year-old was unremarkable in his first three Hong Kong outings dating back to May, but scored on his Happy Valley debut to kick off his four-year-old season. Also in the hunt to secure a debut LONGINES IJC berth as the leading jockey (behind Zac Purton, who automatically qualifies as Hong Kong’s champion jockey), Luke Ferraris secured a fourth win of the season in partnership with Douglas Whyte to salute in the first section of the Class 4 Fat Tseung Handicap (1200m) on the improving King Oberon (127lb). It was a gutsy showing from the son of Divine Prophet, who rallied at the 150-metre mark to prevail by half-a-length, his second straight Happy Valley win. “He’s definitely improved. I think the switch to the Valley has been the key to it,” Whyte said. “A bit of give in the ground and the relentless tempo, he wants a hard-run race. “He’s come across as if he could be a 1400 metre-horse, but it’s just a little bit too far for him … but he’s a good horse – like tonight, when he’s three-wide like that, he can cope with that kind of pressure as long as he can get rolling.” Angus Chung moved on to six wins for the season as he held on to claim the second section of the Class 4 Cheung Shun Handicap (1650m) with Tony Cruz-trained veteran Beauty Glory (130lb) under strong late pressure from Zac Purton on Mark Newnham’s Bull Attitude (126lb). Purton didn’t have to wait long to extend his lead at the top of the jockeys’ standings to 21 wins, landing the subsequent Class 3 Fife Handicap (1200m) on Chateauneuf (135lb) for David Hayes, who closed the trainers’ championship gap on pace-setting Mark Newnham to four (16-20). Awesome Fluke (130lb) took the Class 3 Hing Yip Handicap (1800m) in a thrilling blanket finish under Ellis Wong for Ricky Yiu, before Alexis Badel and Huge Wave (121lb) claimed the nightcap, the Class 2 Shing Yip Handicap (1650m), to seal a double for Ting. Hong Kong racing continues at Sha Tin on Saturday (15 November). By Paul Ryding

Trainer Alan Greeff did not have a blank day last Friday, but a number of his runners ran below par. He will be looking for a change of fortune this Friday, and he should at least win with Fairy Knight. This Global View gelding takes his place in Race 4, the November Stakes (Non-Black Type) over 1400m on the Fairview Polytrack. His form on this surface is excellent, with five wins, two runner-up performances, and a third-place finish from just nine starts. His most recent Polytrack form reads three wins and a very close second to Eastern Cape Polytrack Challenge victor Mercantour. Greeff may well have steered this gelding away from Mercantour in order for that runner to complete all three legs of the challenge. Regular jockey Richard Fourie is missing from this meeting, but replacement rider Louie Mxothwa was aboard when Fairy Knight finished runner-up to Mercantour. Fairy Knight is weighted to win this race comfortably if running to his best form. His main danger, if there is to be one, is likely to be USA’s Hope, for trainer Dean Smith and jockey Craig Zackey. This gelding has been good all year and is 2kg better off with Fairy Knight, having finished just one length adrift of him when they met over 1200m on the Polytrack on 22 August. USA’s Hope did enjoy a clean and easy run that day, while the same could not be said for his rival, as Fairy Knight only found his stride very late and was a very unlucky loser. It is a tough card for punters to negotiate, but there are two other runners on this card that may be worth a look at – River Fern in Race 1 (a Maiden Plate) and Alado’s Pride in Race 8. The three-year-old River Fern has been runner-up twice in his last three starts, both on the Polytrack, and could offer some each-way value in a competitive opening event from a very good draw. The eight-year-old Alado’s Pride has not been beaten by far in most of his runs this year and is quite capable of winning a very open-looking handicap. Clive Robinson

By Scott Bailey Malaysian buyers once again demonstrated their growing appetite for New Zealand-bred racehorses, with a strong presence on Day 1 of the 2025 NZB Ready to Run Sale at Karaka. Representing both private owners and key racing entities, Malaysian interests secured multiple well-bred two-year-olds, further underscoring the region’s increasing investment in high-quality bloodstock. The Selangor Turf Club and a number of familiar Malaysian racing figures were active early, combining for more than a dozen purchases across a range of proven international and emerging sires. Their selections reflected a clear strategy  targeting athletic, speed-based pedigrees with a balance of European class and Australasian speed. Among the standout Malaysian purchases were:

Lot	Sire	Dam	Colour / Sex	Vendor	Buyer	Price (NZD)	Breeze-Up (sec)
32	Circus Maximus (IRE)	Pearls (NZ)	Chestnut Gelding	Woburn Farm	Selangor Turf Club (Malaysia)	$27,000	11.23
65	Wrote (IRE)	Queen Serene (NZ)	Bay Gelding	Lilywhites Lodge	Selangor Turf Club (Malaysia)	$25,000	11.18
67	Bivouac (AUS)	Raggedy Doll (NZ)	Bay Gelding	Riversley Park Ltd	Mr Charles Leck (Malaysia)	$60,000	10.85
71	Embellish (NZ)	Realta (NZ)	Bay Gelding	Riversley Park Ltd	Selangor Turf Club (Malaysia)	$30,000	10.87
79	Circus Maximus (IRE)	Royal Welcome (GB)	Bay Gelding	Leanach Lodge Ltd	Mr Joseph Kai Jin Leck (Malaysia)	$65,000	10.79
114	Anders (AUS)	Slippery When Wet (AUS)	Chestnut Gelding	Kiltannon Stables Ltd	Mr Charles Leck (Malaysia)	$65,000	10.53
117	Ardrossan (AUS)	Snowdonia (GB)	Bay Gelding	Riverrock Farm	Captain Tan Tiang Huat (Malaysia)	$50,000	10.66
133	Ribchester (IRE)	Spirit of Sandford (NZ)	Bay Colt	Lilywhites Lodge	Mega Captain Racing (Malaysia)	$60,000	10.77
147	Harry Angel (IRE)	Tahlio (AUS)	Brown Colt	Woburn Farm	Mr Chin Ooi (Malaysia)	$60,000	11.52
156	Ardrossan (AUS)	Thee Auld Stick (NZ)	Bay Gelding	Waikato Stud Ltd	Tan Sri Richard Cham (Malaysia)	$40,000	10.59
169	King’s Legacy (AUS)	Tongue and Groove (AUS)	Bay Colt	Woburn Farm	Selangor Turf Club (Malaysia)	$15,000	10.93
208	Circus Maximus (IRE)	Absolutelycertain (AUS)	Bay Gelding	Leanach Lodge Ltd	Selangor Turf Club (Malaysia)	$30,000	11.10
209	Ardrossan (AUS)	Acolman (NZ)	Bay Gelding	Waikato Stud Ltd	Selangor Turf Club (Malaysia)	$30,000	10.43
227	War Decree (USA)	Arnage (NZ)	Bay Colt	BMD Bloodstock	Mr W.C. Lim (Malaysia)	$45,000	11.06

  The familiar buying bench of Charles Leck, Tan Sri Richard Cham, Captain Tan Tiang Huat, and Selangor Turf Club maintained Malaysia’s reputation as one of the most consistent Asian supporters of the Ready to Run Sale. Their selections this year again blended speed and value. The purchases of Anders, Ardrossan, and Harry Angel progeny highlight an eye for stallions capable of producing early-maturing types suited to Malaysian racing expectations. The Selangor Turf Club’s involvement across multiple lots reinforces its broader commitment to upgrading the national racing stock. Its continued presence at Karaka, supported by private Malaysian investors and long-term engagement with New Zealand’s proven bloodstock. “The Malaysian racing scene has always admired the toughness and adaptability of New Zealand horses,” an NZB representative noted pre-sale. “Their repeat participation year-on-year shows the strength of the partnership.” Looking Ahead to Day 2 and Beyond Day 1 concluded with strong clearance rates and robust international competition. Malaysian buyers’ early activity ensured their presence among the first wave of successful bidders — securing several promising geldings and colts before competition intensifies on Day 2. With freight subsidies and race incentives from Selangor Turf Club continuing to encourage imports, New Zealand-sourced horses are expected to feature prominently in Malaysia’s 2026 racing season.  

Thursday’s nine-race Turffontein Inside track meeting (13 November) promises competitive action, but much of the focus will be on Craig Zackey, who boasts a strong book of rides and could easily land multiple winners.

His first standout mount comes in Race 3, a 2600m Classified Stakes, aboard Damova for trainer Joe Soma. The seven-year-old mare thrives under Zackey, with two wins and a third from four rides together. Her recent third over 2000m in stronger company confirmed her form, and the return to a longer trip against slightly easier rivals makes her excellent value.

In Race 6, Zackey partners After Hours, a tough eight-year-old trained by St John Gray, who makes his 100th career start. He recently scored over this course and distance and remains well handicapped despite a small penalty. Ideally drawn in gate 2, he could celebrate his milestone with another win.

Zackey’s best closing chance comes in Race 9 with Maverick Queen from Sean Tarry’s powerful stable. The Captain Of All filly won here two runs back, then ran a solid third against males. Dropping back into fillies-only company off the same mark, she looks a major contender to end the day on a high.

Elsewhere, Gavin Lerena could feature with Calida in Race 7 for the Marwing yard. The consistent gelding ran an encouraging fourth last time after a layoff and is ready to strike.

Meanwhile, Rachel Wall in Race 8 for Tony Peter looks a filly on the rise. She impressed when winning over 1200m on her comeback and seems capable of defying her penalty. Punters should keep her onside.

Clive Robinson

Everything about Romantic Warrior indicates the champion is in excellent order, and Danny Shum’s star will need to be when he seeks a fourth straight HK$40 million G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (2000m) win at Sha Tin on 14 December. Romantic Warrior will return in Sunday week’s (23 November) HK$5.35 million G2 BOCHK Jockey Club Cup (2000m), marking 232 days between races – a period when the 10-time Group 1 winner underwent left fore fetlock surgery following his pioneering and lucrative three-race Middle East campaign. Chasing a third BOCHK Jockey Club Cup after triumphs in 2022 and 2024, Romantic Warrior – the highest-earning horse in racing history (HK$214.70 million) – reunited with regular partner James McDonald this morning (Tuesday, 11 November). Entering Sha Tin’s turf track via the sand ring, Romantic Warrior powered down the back stretch ahead of his work partner (Romantic Thor) with McDonald firmly in control. In the home straight, the bay gelding was given some rein, zipping effortlessly past a collection of press and photographers with ease before returning home under Shum’s close eye after clocking 1m 14.7s (26.3, 25.8, 22.6). McDonald, who takes six rides at Happy Valley on Wednesday night (12 November) to commence a short-term contract, returned beaming and said: “He feels every bit as good as what he’s worked like in the past. He looks fantastic. Danny has done a great job with him – he was great. It will take a good one to beat him. “I jumped out of bed pretty quickly this morning, that was for sure. He was my first ride and he just looks phenomenal – he’s prepping up nicely.” Romantic Warrior faces Voyage Bubble in the BOCHK Jockey Club Cup, who also tuned up today with jockey Zac Purton for trainer Ricky Yiu. Equally rated on 134 in Hong Kong, the city’s leading middle-distance horses boast a combined 15 Group 1 victories as they prepare to battle it out over their next two appearances. Purton said: “I thought his trial was good. He seems like a different horse to when I was riding him before. He seems as though he’s matured a lot and he does everything right to help himself. I thought he went well.” Voyage Bubble was successful in the HK$13 million G1 Stewards’ Cup (1600m), HK$13 million G1 Citi Hong Kong Gold Cup (2000m) and HK$13 million G1 Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup (2400m) last season to become the second Triple Crown winner after River Verdon (1993/94). The seven-year-old Deep Field gelding closed off into third behind Beauty Waves and Lucky Sweynesse in a time of 1m 10.55s over 1200m on the dirt today. Purton was atop Voyage Bubble when he finished a cracking second to Romantic Warrior in the 2024 Citi Hong Kong Gold Cup. Voyage Bubble was 12th in the HK$5.35 million G2 Sha Tin Trophy Handicap (1600m) first-up in October. “Last time I rode Voyage Bubble at the 2000 (metres) against Romantic Warrior, we were within a neck of him and got away from the rest of the field,” Purton said. “Voyage Bubble has improved since then as has Romantic Warrior, who has done great things. I think it’ll just come down to who gets the run on the day.” Vincent Ho is hoping Speed Dragon (132lb) can remain unbeaten this season when he steps from barrier five in the HK$3.12 million Class 2 Shing Yip Handicap (1650m) at Happy Valley tomorrow night. “He is a quality horse. He had some issues last season, but he’s had a nice preparation and he performed well (first-up),” Ho said. “I was confident he could win. All of his trials and work in the morning showed to me that he could do it. He’s pretty honest and he’s working well after that win. He’s probably improved a little bit after his last run.” First-up last month over 1800m at the city circuit, Francis Lui’s Speed Dragon bested quality opposition, including Encountered, winner of last Sunday’s (9 November) HK$4.2 million G3 Sa Sa Ladies’ Purse Handicap (1800m) at Sha Tin. Taj Dragon (132lb), Markwin (130lb), Sing Dragon (128lb), Soleil Fighter (128lb), Mr Ascendency (126lb), Gustosisimo (124lb), Keefy (123lb), Telecom Fighters (123lb), Huge Wave (121lb), Sky Heart (121lb) and Fallon (120lb) also contest the Class 2 finale. Wednesday’s (12 November) nine-race fixture at Happy Valley kicks off at 6.40pm with the Class 5 Bedford Handicap (1650m). By Declan Schuster

At a tough Polytrack meeting at Greyville on Wednesday 12 November, there are four runners worth keeping an eye on. The first is Plum Pudding. Trainer Andre Nel has his runners in good form, and this daughter of Silvano has been giving her backers plenty to cheer about all year. The five-year-old mare runs in Race 5, a Middle Stakes race over 1800m. She has won three of her five starts this year and was runner-up in the other two. Plum Pudding did well to finish runner-up behind Go Grayson Go, as she does seem to be stretched by the 2000m distance. This will be the first time that jockey Calvin Habib rides her, but she does not look a difficult mount, and she can add another win to her tally. Trainers Mike and Mathew de Kock send out Spaarne Rivier in Race 7, a Class 5 Handicap over 1600m. This Hawwaam gelding showed good improvement to win his second start and may be better than his rating suggests. That win was his first taste of the Polytrack, and he won easily. This longer distance should not be a problem, and Callan Murray retains the ride. Earlier on the card, Drielandenpunt in Race 1, a Maiden Plate over 1600m, and Xiphos in Race 3, a Maiden Plate over 1200m, both look hard to oppose. Drielandenpunt has only had three starts and showed improvement when third over this course and distance on 22 October. He should prove to be better than the mostly struggling rivals. Xiphos has been runner-up in all three starts in which he has worn blinkers, and with a little luck in running, he could finally get the job done over a course and distance that suits him. Clive Robinson

An intriguing eight-race card awaits at the Vaal on Tuesday 11 November, with several progressive three-year-olds stepping out for top Highveld stables. It’s a card that should deliver competitive betting opportunities throughout, and it could prove another fruitful day for Sean Tarry, whose runners look poised to play leading roles across multiple events. The yard could make an early impact in Race 1, a Maiden Plate for fillies and mares over 1700m, where he saddles a three-pronged attack, spearheaded by Utsaah and Top Shelf Teddy. Both three-year-olds are improving with racing and should relish the extra ground. On riding engagements Craig Zackey’s mount, Top Shelf Teddy, might be seen as the stable elect, but preference is for Utsaah, partnered by Keratile Katjedi. The Capetown Noir filly caught the eye when a fast-finishing third over 1400m on 26 October and steps up in trip now, for which she has been crying out. That comeback run would have brought her nearer to peak fitness and with Katjedi riding in fine form, Utsaah can strike an early blow for the yard. It’s also worth noting that the Tarry-Katjedi combination has been a profitable one lately. They recently teamed up to win the Grade 2 Joburg Spring Challenge with Tin Pan Alley (subsequent Grade 3 Betway Graham Beck Stakes victor), a classy son of The United States. Another of the stallion’s progeny looks destined for success in Race 6, where United Offer, a three-year-old filly by The United States, looks ready to resume winning ways. Victorious on debut over 1200m in late September, she followed up with a running-on fourth over 1160m on Charity Mile day, a mere 10 days ago. The bird had flown by the time she hit top stride, though that effort suggested she would be more effective over a longer trip. As such, the step up to 1400m should be ideal, and with S’manga Khumalo taking over the reins from Zackey, United Offer looks solid value to continue her upward trajectory. If United Offer delivers as expected, it should set up a late Tarry double, with Trajanus (Race 7) well placed to follow suit over 1000m. This Danon Platina gelding has been a model of consistency, recording three consecutive second-place finishes and a last-start win in his four appearances. He wasn’t winning out of turn under Zackey last time when reverting to 1000m, a trip he obviously enjoys, and he lines up in his peak outing with further progress on the cards. The United Offer–Trajanus play makes for an appealing TAB Double bet later on the card, and possibly the final two legs of a Tarry treble, if Utsaah (or Top Shelf Teddy) lands the opener. Elsewhere, Race 5 looks set for a showdown between another two exciting three-year-olds, Bellerophon and Redlightgreenlight, both of whom should relish stretching out to 1800m. They make for appealing boxed Swinger and Exacta material, with either capable of landing the spoils. In Race 8 there is another clash between two progressive three-year-olds to look forward to with Echo Check and The Last Duke locking horns over 1200m. The latter, from the Paul Matchett yard, seems ideally suited to the 1200m trip so it could pay to side with the Duke Of Marmalade gelding. Clive Robinson

Two of the Cape’s most exciting three-year-old fillies, Reet Petite and Viva La Vida, meet in Race 6 over 1600m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Monday — an extra meeting added after high entry numbers. Both are seen as potential contenders for the Grade 1 Cape Fillies Guineas on 6 December.

Unbeaten in two starts, Reet Petite has created a big impression with her effortless win over Mighty Mary at Durbanville, cruising home by 2.25 lengths without being fully extended. Trained by James Crawford and partnered by Richard Fourie, she now makes her Kenilworth debut — the track that hosts Cape Town’s premier races — and is expected to adapt easily.

By contrast, Viva La Vida is more workmanlike but equally talented. She’s put together three consecutive wins, showing grit and determination that could prove decisive in a battle like this. Trained by Vaughan Marshall, whose yard is in fine form, she’ll be ridden by Sean Veale. Her added experience might give her the slightest edge, though Reet Petite’s raw brilliance remains the drawcard.

Behind the leading pair, Hunga Tonga is the best of the rest, likely to appreciate the drop back to 1600m after possibly not staying 1800m last time.

Elsewhere on the card, Got The Look looks ready to shed her maiden tag in Race 2 after two seconds, while Kattekwaadkwadraad and well-bred Ms Sakura are strong contenders in Race 3. Clark Griswold could continue his improvement to take Race 4, and Star In Motion may bounce back in Race 5 after a class drop.

In the later races, Mente Et Manu aims for a third straight win in Race 7, and Midnight Lady, impressive on debut, could close the card with another victory in Race 9.

As is the norm with racing at Perak Turf Club the program will commence with the 1600m contests including three divisions of the Class 5. MICHIKAWA hasn’t won for fourteen months but is a chance to bounce back in the Class 5B (Race 1). Coming off a number of minor placings this year MICHIKAWA has finished runner up at his past two outings and definitely has the hoof on the till. The T Asogan yard has been running hot in recent weeks and recent stable acquisition, GOD’S GIFT is also due to strike. The nine-year-old closed off well when finishing 2nd to GOLDEN LIGHTNING, which is a chance of going back-to-back in Race Three. FIGHT TO WIN looks ideally placed with 53kg is on target for successive wins in Race 2. The four-year-old can be a risky proposition at the start but has a good turn of foot when called upon. His two career victories have been over Sunday’s track and distance, both in wet going and jockey HS Gill retains the mount. LEOPARD ECLIPSE finally delivered a win for the Kevin Coetzee stable two runs back before receiving every chance when 3rd to GOLDEN LIGHTNING at the last meeting. The nine-year-old draws well and can easily bounce back in the small field. GOLDEN LIGHTNING will carry 3kg more from his win here on October 9 and is a chance to repeat the dose in Race 3. Starting at the generous odds of RM155, it was only a matter of time before the former Class 3 galloper was going to bounce back and he never looked in danger when posting his fourth win on the track by 1.75 lengths. NORTHERN ALLIANCE took out a Class 5 contest here in August and is a chance second run back in the grade while SHYLOCK is a last winner and also rises 3kg in the weights. ARIGATO was outclassed in the NZB Ready To Run open Championship in KL on October 12 but returns to the scene of his two victories this year and will be hard to beat in the 1300m Enrich Stakes A (Race 5). Coming off successive wins over 1300m and 1400m, the seven-year-old has the 60kg but has a touch of class on his side. Only a neck separated ARIGATO and SALAAM NAMASTEY at their last encounter back on September 7 and the pair are likely to run the quinella again. SALAAM NAMASTEY has been ultra consistent and rarely runs a bad race while stable mate PEAKY BLINDER is an enigmatic type capable of winning on best form. WAR FRONTIER appears primed to score following three runs this preparation and will one to watch in the 1100m Class 4B contest (Race 6). Coming off successive minor placings, WAR FRONTIER should appreciate the journey drop and is adaptable to all forms of going. AFTERMATH produced one of the fastest final sectionals at the Selangor meeting on October 26 when charging home to finish runner up, beaten 2.5 lengths from a wide barrier. This will be the eight-year old’s first look at the Ipoh circuit but comes under notice after returning to form last start. FOREVER LOVE is targeting the hat trick after scoring in an incident packed race marred by a fall here three weeks ago and has strong claims again while stable mate SIMON has been racing well without winning against Class 4 company.

Video Stars Race 8 – 10 BETTER AND BETTER In contrast to his positive racing style two starts ago, a slow getaway last time forced him to settle further back than ideal. Despite that early setback, he charged home strongly for third over this trip, showcasing his versatility in running. With a clean break, he should be able to settle closer to the speed and looks poised to break through at his seventh attempt. Race 10 – 2 LIGHT YEARS CHARM At his first attempt at Group level two weeks ago, he was badly held up over the final 250m, resulting in a luckless seventh. The form has since been franked, with the winner MY WISH going on to post back-to-back victories. Dropping back to Class 2, where he maintains an unblemished record, is a major positive, and with a clearer run this time, he should prove hard to beat. Sectional Stars RACE 4 – 14 BEAUTY MISSILE Despite not drawing better than gate 10 in his past five starts, he has still produced several strong finishes, including a slashing fourth over this distance last time out. With two runs under his belt this preparation and only 115lb to carry, he could prove a genuine value chance. RACE 9 – 3 THE BOOM BOX His first-up run early last month was a pass mark, settling off the speed before finishing strongly for sixth over 1200m. With the step up in distance, he should be able to settle closer from an inside gate, making him one worthy of serious consideration second-up.

The Melbourne Cup Carnival reaches its grand finale this Saturday with Champions Day, three contests fit for the best of the best. Three Group 1 showdowns, three different distances, and three thrilling conclusions to one unforgettable week at Flemington. The action begins with the Group 1 Champions Sprint, where past meets future in a clash of speed and star power. Former sprinting king Giga Kick takes on the emerging sensation Tentyris. Giga Kick, who conquered The Everest as a three-year-old, showed he’s far from finished with a powerful win last start. Tentyris, meanwhile, proved the hype was real with a commanding victory in the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes on Derby Day. Expect fireworks when they face off down the Flemington straight. Next up, the Group 1 Champions Mile, a mouth-watering battle where the irrepressible Pride Of Jenni returns after another trademark, front-running demolition in the Empire Rose Stakes. But this time, she faces a world-class field. Ten-time Group 1 winner Mr Brightside is as tough and consistent as they come, while Ceolwulf, fresh off his King Charles III Stakes triumph, will relish the tempo Jenni sets. Add to that a stellar cast of mares: rising star Treasurethemoment, the gritty Stefi Magnetica, and New Zealand’s lightly raced Leica Lucy, who again teams up with world-class jockey James McDonald. And from across the globe, English contender Lake Forest, trained by William Haggas and ridden by Tom Marquand, adds an international edge. This could well be the race of the year. And if that wasn’t enough, the curtain falls with the Group 1 Champions Stakes (2000m), headlined by the remarkable Via Sistina. A two-time Cox Plate winner and 11-time Group 1 victor around the world, she stands at the summit of global racing and looks to reaffirm her dominance in front of an international audience. Form expert David Gately joins Marc Ohlmus for in-depth analysis of all three Group 1 features as one of the world’s greatest racing weeks comes to a close. It’s become one of the true highlights of the carnival, three elite contests, a full card of feature racing, and the backdrop of the world’s most beautiful racecourse. It’s Champions Day and it’s not to be missed.