Ka Ying Rising, the world’s highest-rated horse, will contest a vital barrier trial at Randwick Racecourse in Sydney, Australia on Tuesday (6 October) in preparation for the AU$20 million (approx. HK$108.9 million) G1 The Everest (1200m) on 17 October.
Ka Ying Rising is due to face four potential The Everest rivals – Joliestar, Angel Capital, Ninja and Headwall – in the 1000m barrier trial, while G1 King Charles III Stakes (1609m) contenders Amazing Journey and Apocalyptic have also been nominated.
Nine-time Hong Kong Champion Jockey Zac Purton has travelled to Australia to partner Ka Ying Rising in the barrier trial, while trainer David Hayes will also be at Randwick to oversee the hit-out.
Ka Ying Rising last season finished third in the corresponding barrier trial before becoming the first overseas horse to win The Everest, the world’s most lucrative turf race.
If successful on 17 October, Ka Ying Rising will extend his Hong Kong record winning streak to 22 races and claim a 10th Group 1 title, matching the haul of Golden Sixty.
Ryan Moore’s World Pool blog: Fillies’ Mile Day
Fillies’ Mile hope Haven a progressive filly
Newmarket | Race 1: G3 Cornwallis Stakes
I’m riding MARCO POLO in the Cornwallis.
He ran in the Middle Park on his last start, where he was disappointing, but was far too free on the front end, so there are excuses for that.
He won a maiden nicely at Cork prior to that and hopefully he can get back on track.
Carry The Flag also runs.
He’s had a busy year. He was placed in the Prix Morny and has run well in lots of stakes races this season.
If the ground stays fast, it will suit him well. The six-and-a-half-furlong [1300m] trip was too far for him last time, but the five furlongs [1000m] on a nice surface should suit him.
Newmarket | Race 2: G3 Oh So Sharp Stakes
GOLDEN RING won on her third start at Dundalk when making all, and she did it well.
It wasn’t the strongest of fields in behind, but she’s open to improvement and looks a progressive filly.
Exceptionally joins her in the race.
She’s still a maiden, but has run in some top races.
The mile [1600m] at Newmarket, along with being back on a sounder surface could benefit her.
Newmarket | Race 4: G1 Fillies’ Mile
HAVEN is a Wootton Bassett filly who won at Dundalk a couple of weeks ago, and she seems to be getting better with her racing.
She faces a sharp hike in grade, but is a progressive filly.
Newmarket | Race 5: Old Rowley Cup
I rode ARCHERS BAY last time in the Godolphin Stakes at Newmarket, where he stayed on strongly behind Fortitudine.
He does have to shoulder top weight, but he has a good chance and is a nice ride to have for Marco [Botti].
Newmarket | Race 6: Listed Boadicea Stakes
LADY YOUMZAIN has run with credit in this company twice this season but still needs to improve a bit.
She might have needed the run after a break last time, so there’s a chance she could take a nice step forward.
Newmarket | Race 7: G3 Pride Stakes
I follow that with another ride for Jaber Abdullah in ROSE GHAIYYATH.
She’s struggled since winning on debut but could go well here, now dropping in grade.
That said, she’ll need to step forward from her last run at Deauville to get her head in front.
Newmarket | Race 8: HKJC World Pool Handicap
GEORGE WICKHAM remains unexposed and ran well last time on handicap debut. He travelled strongly but was probably too far back to make an impact.
Avdulla confident Bustling City can complete hat-trick at Sha Tin
Brenton Avdulla struck a confident tone when discussing the prospects of his mount, Bustling City, in Sunday’s (11 October) Class 3 Lau Fau Shan Handicap (1200m, dirt) as the four-year-old seeks a hat-trick for trainer David Hayes.
A switch to the dirt has brought an uptick in the chestnut’s fortunes, winning his last two runs on Sha Tin’s all-weather by a combined 11 and a half lengths, and Avdulla expects Bustling City (131lb) to build on his seven-length demolition of a smart field on his Class 3 debut last month.
“He won well, didn’t he? I’m not surprised that he won, but it’s probably surprising the way he’s done it. He’s a horse who, since he’s been switched over to the all-weather, he’s found a new gear and both wins have been solid,” Avdulla said. “I’m looking forward to seeing what he can do on the weekend.”
Those two eye-catching victories build on a consistent three-year-old campaign on turf, when he secured two seconds and a third-place finish on the Sha Tin turf. And Avdulla said it was worth striking while the iron was hot given his sizzling form.
“It’s only a two-week turnaround. So, the perfect race is there for him to go back again, and you have got to take these chances as much as you can on the all-weather,” he added.
The Australian also predicted a hot pace if his front-running Starspangledbanner gelding is challenged for the lead. Seven-pound claimer Britney Wong rides Lucy In The Sky (135lb), another galloper who usually prefers to set the tone over 1200 metres.
“He doesn’t need any encouragement to go faster,” Avdulla said. “It’s all about trying to harness him. He’s not the easiest, but he seems to be going well.
“If Britney decides to try and take me on, I’m tipping we will be two seconds inside standard (time). My horse is a fast horse, we’ll be galloping. Pace is his best asset. He’s drawn low (two) inside (Lucy In The Sky), but if he steps cleanly, I’m tipping he’ll be leading; then hopefully he can keep running for me.”
Another smart four-year-old appearing on Sunday is David Eustace’s Titan Pegasus. A two-time winner in Australia pre-import, including a victory in the G3 Blue Diamond Prelude (1100m) where he beat the eventual Blue Diamond winner Devil Night, the Deep Field gelding makes his seasonal bow in the Class 3 Shui Pin Wai Handicap (1400m).
Titan Pegasus (131lb), who will be ridden for the first time by Jerry Chau, flew into a late-charging third place in the final race of his three-year-old season last term on his debut over 1400m, and Eustace believes the 73-rated galloper will get the Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m) distance if he can improve sufficiently before the Classic Series campaign begins.
“I hope so, yeah,” said Eustace of Titan Pegasus’ chances of becoming a Four-Year-Old Classic Series contender. “Naturally, they’re trained for it, and they’ve then got to prove it. He’s got to win. He’s got to get his rating up, but that’s certainly the plan.
“I think he’ll get a mile, no problem. He ran well at 1400 (metres), finding the line. And, hopefully, he does handle 1600, which I think he will.”
Sunday’s (11 October) 11-race fixture at Sha Tin starts at 12.30pm with the Class 5 Hung Shui Kiu Handicap (1200m).
By Paul Ryding
October 11 Selangor Preview By Mark Lydeamore
It has been a relatively quiet season for multiple-group winning trainer, Frank Maynard compared to recent years with 19 winners so far striking at a respectable 11.2%. The stable’s sole representative for Sunday’s SLTC meeting will be locally unbeaten four-year-old PERFECT SERDANG, which steps out in the 1200m Max Two Stakes (Race 4). The former Australian galloper arrived as a three-start maiden but has made an immediate impression with successive victories at Ipoh, the most recent being a Benchmark 65 contest on September 20 where he scored by 0.5L after a slow beginning. PERFECT SERDANG has displayed the potential to progress through the grades and looks hat trick bound with the benefit of a 3kg claim for apprentice J Ikram, who’s ridden three winners from seven rides for the stable this year. CONGRATULATEBANKER is overdue for a win also following three minor placings from four starts, his only failure coming from an unplaced effort off a seven-day backup in August. The four-year-old grey has remained competitive in Class 3 level and is a chance of breaking through in this weaker grade.
Five-year-old LEGEND SIXTY-THREE has really stepped up this campaign from a nine-month break chalking up successive wins over 1150m and 1200m and will be seeking atonement in the 1200m Class 4 contest (Race 5). The Richard Lim-trained galloper cast a plate when finishing 3rd over 1275m on Track Two a fortnight ago but will be better suited returning to the short course this Sunday from barrier 2. PACIFIC MASTER has retained form since dead-heating at big odds over 1020m in August and is well drawn also. Finishing close up in two subsequent efforts, the Jason Ong-trained runner is a four-time winner over 1200m and will gain the services of Joe Kamaruddin for the first time.
Kamaruddin also retains the ride on last-start winner ACTION BANKERS, which looks hard to beat again in the 1400m Class 3 contest (Race 7). The New Zealand-bred five-year-old delivered a comfortable 3.75L victory over 1300m two weeks ago, his fourth run in the country and strikes another winnable contest despite the 2.5kg weight rise. GRAPHJET EXPRESS has been an enigma capable of progressing through the ranks but rarely delivers, hence has only recorded four wins from twenty starts locally. The six-year-old was outclassed in the G1 Ipoh Gold Vase recently and connections have elected to go with inform jockey Jimmy Wong, who will ride the gelding for the first time.
The Simon Dunderdale-Jimmy Wong combination has been a formidable one this season striking at an impressive 38% (10 wins from 26 rides) and that scenario should continue in the 1400m Open Maiden (Race 8) with the three-year-old New Zealand-bred performer, CAPET CROWN. Placed in all three starts so far, CAPET CROWN will strike a weaker lineup following his recent 3rd behind progressive type Midori Sunrise in a 1400m Class 4 a fortnight ago and appears ideally placed from barrier three with a 4.5kg weight drop. Four-year-old GENERAL BARRACK does possess some early pace and attempted to lead throughout in a Class 4 contest at his second race start on September 26. Finishing 4th and beaten 3L behind the inform Commander Jones, GENERAL BARRACK was met with solid market support despite the class rise and is also capable of landing the major prize.
LUCKY MEGA has vastly improved with race experience and will be aiming for back-to-back wins in the 1600m Class 4 event (Race 9). The three-year-old UK-bred performer never looked in doubt when breaking through in Class 4 grade over 1500m on August 22. The gelding drew barrier two when leading throughout to score by 3.5L unextended with Bernardo Pinheiro astride. KC Low will be reunited with LUCKY MEGA on Sunday may require some early luck from the outside gate but if he replicates his last start performance, he should be hard to beat gain. Senior jockey Jose De Souza seldom rides for the Pacific Stable but has been booked to take the mount on PACIFIC STAR, which is coming off an eye-catching run at big odds last start. The seven-year-old closed off well to finish 3rd in a 1400m Class 3 contest here two weeks ago and appears well placed on the downgrade despite carrying the top weight of 59kg.
Hazy Dazy back to rule the roost
The nine-race Turffontein Inside programme on Saturday is built around the Non-Black Type Allez France Stakes over 1800m, where Hazy Dazy gets the chance to bounce straight back to winning ways.
The Xander and Corne Spies-trained four-year-old has little to prove after finishing runner-up in last week’s Grade 2 Fillies & Mares Joburg Spring Challenge. She was beaten by a highly rated younger rival while conceding a hefty 9.5kg so that effort reads particularly well in the context of Saturday’s field.
Hazy Dazy does have to shoulder 62kg, but her tactical versatility is a major asset in a race featuring just five opponents. She is equally comfortable dictating matters or sitting off the pace and should have no difficulty making her own running if the opposition leaves her with that option.
The daughter of Act Of War is also no stranger to the Highveld’s biggest stages, having captured two legs of last season’s Triple Tiara – the Grade 2 Gauteng Fillies Guineas and Grade 1 SA Fillies Classic. Provided the quick turnaround has not taken the edge off her, she sets a formidable standard with regular rider Trent Mayhew back aboard.
Grand Empire is another Grade 1 performer whose class could prove decisive when he returns from a 125-day layoff in Race 6 over 1600m.
The Sean Tarry-trained son of Vercingetorix won last season’s SA Classic and has subsequently been given time to recover from an excusable final start, when he was found distressed and coughing after the race. That enforced break should have done him good, and Saturday’s comeback is worth following closely with bigger targets presumably on the horizon.
A wide No. 11 draw is unlikely to be a major concern for a horse possessing such a sharp turn of foot, while 1600m is well within his compass. He also gets a significant new jockey booking in the shape of current national championship leader Keagan de Melo.
Tarry also saddles 2025 SA Derby winner Legend Of Arthur, but Grand Empire is the stable pick on recent form. The fitness question is the obvious caveat, but if the four-year-old is anywhere near his best, there is enough class to carry him through.
The value angle could come later in the card, with One Eye On Dubai an intriguing handicap debutant for Mike and Mathew de Kock in Race 8 over 1800m.
The imported son of Almanzor has improved with every outing and was certainly not winning out of turn when making all over 2000m at the Vaal just 18 days ago. He destroyed that field by 8.50 lengths, and while this represents a considerably tougher examination, there was enough authority in that performance to suggest further progress is plasuible.
A favourable No. 3 draw should allow De Melo to dictate matters if connections choose to employ the same front-running tactics. This is a very different test, and he will need to raise his game, but lightly raced three-year-olds capable of winning by that sort of margin deserve respect when stepping into handicaps.
Clive Robinson
Michael Chang reaches Hong Kong 400-win milestone as Manfred Man takes...
Michael Chang continued an impressive early season form run to reach the 400-win landmark in Hong Kong with a double at Happy Valley on Wednesday night (7 October) as Manfred Man vaulted to the top of the Hong Kong trainers’ championship.
Paying tribute to his training peers and recognising Hong Kong racing’s renowned competitiveness after the success of New Power and Kwai Chung Talents, Chang said he was proud of his longevity and accomplishments.
“There are champion trainers everywhere here. After 20 years, I’m still standing here. That’s a big achievement, I joined the Club in 1987 and this is my job,” he said. “I love horse racing, I love horses, I love my job and I’m proud of myself as a Hong Kong trainer.
“We have the top trainers and jockeys from all over the world here and I am very proud to be competing here. I love this atmosphere. In Hong Kong, every (race) day is Melbourne Cup Day.
“It’s not easy to win any race here – not even a Class 5. I always try my best.”
A former jockey, Chang worked his way through the ranks to bcome assistant trainer to Gary Ng before serving in a similar capacity to Alex Wong, David Hayes and Sean Woods.
Granted a full licence in the 2005/06 season, Chang in 2014 saddled Rich Tapestry to win the G1 Santa Anita Sprint Championship (1200m, dirt), who made history as the first and only Hong Kong-trained galloper to win a race in the United States of America.
New Power (126lb) gave Chang his third win from five starters, and kicked off a second double in as many meetings, by striking in the second section of the Class 4 Cheung Fat Handicap (1200m) under Keith Yeung.
“I actually planned for him to run on Sunday (11 October). He’s a very honest horse, he had a little bit of a suspensory problem last season, so I stopped him at the end of the season. Now, he is fresh, his preparation is good, and the jockey did a perfect run,” Chang said.
The veteran horseman took his season’s tally to six wins to be seventh overall behind Man (10 wins) when Kwai Chung Talents (119lb) prevailed in the first section of the Class 4 Cheung Fat Handicap (1200m), also under Yeung.
Zac Purton extended his lead at the top of the Hong Kong jockeys’ championship with a brace, scoring with Sunday’s Serenade and Absolute Honour. After nine completed meetings, Purton has 16 winners, seven clear of Derek Leung (nine). Vincent Ho and Nichola Yuen are next on eight wins each.
Jamie Richards lauded nine-time Hong Kong Champion Jockey Purton’s ride on Sunday’s Serenade (131lb) after the gelding posted his third course and distance success in the second section of the Class 4 Fat Tseung Handicap (1650m).
“He (Purton) found the fence from nine, came around one horse – quite incredible. Very, very good ride – as good as I’ve seen here for some time,” Richards said. “He (Sunday’s Serenade) chipped a knee and to be honest, Zac came out and said the track’s pretty firm and we were a little bit concerned that he might not let down.
“But’s been up at Conghua and had the benefit of all the rehabilitation services up there and he’s in the spa and all those sorts of things. The boys have done a good job. He’s been a good, honest horse, he wears his heart on his sleeve, he’s never far away and it was a very good win but an even better ride.”
Frankie Lor was similarly effusive about Purton after the Australian registered a double aboard Absolute Honour (126lb) in the first section of the Class 4 Fat Tseung Handicap (1650m).
“I was a bit surprised that he led by himself – only Zac can do it. The pace was slow, so he could still sprint the last 400m,” Lor said.
Georgian Sigma’s (126lb) breakthrough triumph in the Class 4 Chinese General Chamber Of Commerce Cup Handicap (1000m) delivered Angus Chung and Tony Cruz’s first wins of the season, respectively, delighting both the trainer and jockey.
“I didn’t get a winner in a month, which was actually not frustrating because I knew the horses were progressing and they were just not there yet and there’s more to come,” Chung said.
“I have confidence, it’s just a time problem. This horse (Georgian Sigma) ran very well, he’s very consistent and I am glad that he broke the maiden here.”
Cruz said: “It’s been a slow start to the season. I’m so happy – Angus rode a perfect race. He had a good draw (gate seven) this time and the horse is improving.”
Man-trained Golden Fortune (127lb) broke through at his 13th start under a brilliant Brenton Avdulla ride to land the Class 5 Bedford Handicap (1800m) before Man completed a double in tandem with Derek Leung with Bright Day (119lb) in the second section of the Class 3 Yip Fat Handicap (1200m).
Five-time Hong Kong Champion Trainer Caspar Fownes also fired in a double.
The reigning titleholder teamed with Ellis Wong to snare the Class 3 Hing Fat Handicap (1650m) with Audacious Pursuit (116lb), who set a class record of 1m 38.30s after surging from the tail of the field, before Ho crowned a memorable week when he piloted The Heir (125lb) to victory in the first section of the Class 3 Yip Fat Handicap (1200m).
On Tuesday (6 October), Ho became the first racing person to be named as one of Hong Kong’s Ten Outstanding Young Persons in recognition of his acclaimed achievements in horse racing, continued drive for world-class excellence, and his contribution to society.
Hong Kong racing continues at Sha Tin on Sunday (11 October).
By Leo Schlink
Greeff should have another good day
It is back on the Polytrack again this Friday at Fairview, and trainer Alan Greeff should have another good day.
Having said that, chief rival Dean Smith should win Race 2, a MR 86 Handicap over 1000m, with his decent three-year-old Master Mtoto.
This Real Gone Kid gelding won his first two starts and has been runner-up in his next three outings.
Master Mtoto proved to be just in need of his latest start when caught very late by Slash ‘N Burn over this course and distance in August.
Having had only five starts against Slash ‘N Burn’s 10, it is very likely Master Mtoto will improve past that rival. It will be the first time JP van der Merwe rides the gelding, while Callan Murray will rider Slash ‘N Burn on this occasion.
Rush Green and Chatterbox look the best of the Alan Greeff-trained and Fourie-ridden runners at this meeting, but they do have many other chances of scoring.
The Gimmethegreenlight colt Rush Green has had just three starts, winning second time out.
He was caught too far out of his ground when returning from a break last time out.
He takes on seven rivals in Race 4, a MR 80 Handicap over 1400m.
He is not well drawn in stall No. 6, but he will strip fitter and has shown he can quicken up very nicely.
Canford Cliffs filly Chatterbox has shown she is improving with every start and looks the one to beat in Race, a MR 70 Handicap for fillies and mares over 1200m.
This three-year-old filly showed sprinting was her game when making all the running in a handicap over the course and distance last month, and a four-point penalty is probably not going to stand in the way of another victory for her.
Clive Robinson
Zavateri bouncing ahead of Champions Day swansong
It is full steam ahead to Qatar Racing British Champions Day with Zavateri, where Eve Johnson Houghton hopes her star colt can pull off the perfect swansong.
A top-class juvenile last year when he bagged a Group One in Ireland along the way, a setback curtailed any Classic and Royal Ascot dreams ifollowing a good comeback in the Greenham.
However, he has been kept up to his work with some high-ranking assignments since his return, running with credit behind Bow Echo and Notable Speech respectively when fifth in both the Sussex and City of York Stakes, before making the drop to Group Two company count when landing the Celebration Mile.
Set to head to Tally-Ho stud for a stallion career at the end of the campaign, he is now being primed for one final outing at Ascot in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot on October 17, a race for which he is as short as 6-1 in the betting.
Johnson Houghton said: “Zavateri is in great form and did a lovely piece of work on Saturday morning, I’m really happy with him and looking forward to Ascot.
“To see him win at Goodwood last time was fantastic and it doesn’t matter what they do at home, it’s great to see them do it in the flesh on track.
“It’s going to be so sad to see him go, but I’m also happy he’s got a great home to go to and if he’s going to make a stallion, he will make a stallion there.”
Assessing the void Zavateri will leave, she added: “Hopefully Night In Vegas can fill his boots next year with a bit of luck.”
By Adam Morgan, Press Association
Buffalo Storm Cody the class act on Vaal card
The return of last season’s Equus Champion Sprinter Buffalo Storm Cody is the principal attraction come the eight-race Vaal meeting on Thursday 8 October, with the Tony Peter-trained five-year-old making his seasonal reappearance in Race 5, a Pinnacle Stakes over 1100m.
The son of Buffalo Bill Cody has not raced since producing a high-class performance to win the Grade 1 Mercury Sprint at Hollywoodbets Greyville on 26 July under Gavin Lerena. He defeated Jet Force by 0.90-lengths at level weights, with the form strengthened by the runner-up subsequently winning the Grade 3 Matchem Stakes at Hollywoodbets Durbanville last weekend.
Buffalo Storm Cody is the best-weighted runner in Thursday’s field and, despite a 74-day absence, his rating leaves him with a clear advantage. He does not need to return at peak fitness to be competitive at this level, and his first start with Kabelo Matsunyane in the irons could provide the jockey with an immediate reward.
The champion therefore sets the standard.
A potential jockey-trainer double could be completed in Race 7, where Caladrius looks well placed to follow up a last-start victory. The progressive three-year-old Rafeef filly won a similar contest over 1000m last time, beating male opposition by 0.25-lengths. She meets her own sex this time and, although raised three points in the handicap, appears capable of confirming that recent improvement.
Rafeef’s Queen has another opportunity to convert admirable consistency into maiden success in Race 2 over 1000m. The Stuart Pettigrew-trained three-year-old has finished second in each of her last three starts and does not appear to need significant improvement to go one better. With leading rider Keagan de Melo aboard, she has strong claims to finally open her account.
Ruby Whisper presents a similar form profile, having also been runner-up in her last three starts, but her 135-day absence introduces a fitness variable. On balance, Rafeef’s Queen makes more appeal.
Dreadnought is another last-start runner-up with a favourable opportunity in Race 3 over 1800m. The Clinton Binda-trained son of Gimmethegreenlight was finishing strongly when narrowly beaten over 1600m at Hollywoodbets Greyville last month. The additional 200m should suit, and further improvement could be enough for the three-year-old colt to shed his maiden status under Calvin Habib.
The meeting is built around Buffalo Storm Cody’s comeback, however, and the betting case is straightforward. His Mercury Sprint victory, the subsequent success of Jet Force and favourable weight terms all point towards a horse who remains some way ahead of this opposition on established form. The 74-day layoff is the only obvious question mark.
If he returns anywhere near his best, Buffalo Storm Cody should take plenty of stopping – while Rafeef’s Queen, Dreadnought and Caladrius offer sound supporting plays for multiples on a card where proven form could prove more reliable than speculation.
Clive Robinson
Ka Ying Rising to participate in key barrier trial
The barrier trial is scheduled to start at 9am (6am Hong Kong Time) and will be broadcast live on the Club’s online platforms, including HKJC Racing Facebook page, HKJC Racing Sports Facebook page, @HKJC_Racing on X, and the HKJC Entertainment Facebook page.
Two Arcs and out for Daryz as retirement beckons
Daryz appears unlikely to race again after joining an elite band of dual Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winners with a historic success at sun-soaked ParisLongchamp.
A narrow winner of Europe’s premier middle-distance contest over Minnie Hauk 12 months ago, the son of 2009 Arc hero Sea The Stars became just the ninth horse in history to repeat the dose.
A few doubters emerged after he was beaten into third place in the Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot, but with a dominant display in the Prix Foy four weeks ago restoring any lost confidence, the four-year-old carried the hopes of a nation on his back as he met with a formidable raiding party in Europe’s most prestigious middle-distance contest.
All the big guns were in the mix rounding the final bend, but there was a sense of inevitability about the result when Mickael Barzalona produced Daryz down the outside of the field – and just as Francis-Henri Graffard predicted, his lightning acceleration proved too much for the opposition to handle.
“It was beautiful to witness such a great straight and a great champion, winning with all his power and showing the world how good this horse is,” said the trainer, whose stable star was becoming the first colt to go back-to-back in the Arc since Vincent O’Brien’s Alleged in 1977 and 1978.
“It was a big challenge as the odds were against us as a four-year-old colt and I have to thank Princess Zahra (owner) for allowing me to try it for the horse, because we always believed he was a true champion and last year he was really coming to his best when he won the Arc. It was a big decision to make and I had to put a lot of pressure on Princess Zahra to make it possible.
“There was a lot of pressure, but during the race when I saw him moving with ease on the outside I knew he was going to accelerate really strongly and he did.”
Princess Zahra leads the Aga Khan team and her late father the Aga Khan IV, who died in February of last year, was at the forefront of her mind following the latest big-race success for the famous green and red silks.
“Last year I was really caught up in the moment because I was still suffering loss. This year I just know that he’d be so proud to see a homebred do that twice in a row,” she said.
“Mickael knows the horse very well, he comes to the gallops almost every morning, which is a real positive for an owner-breeder.”
No horse has ever won the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe three times, but it seems there will be no hat-trick bid for Daryz, who is clearly a hugely valuable stallion prospect.
“Look, we’re breeders right, and you get to the point where you’re taking a risk every time you run the horse,” Princess Zahra added.
“His mother (Daryakana) improved with age, that’s true, but would we want him to train on for another year? I’m not sure – I think he has other things to do.”
By Ashley Iveson, Press Association
Sha Tin Track Spy: Sunday, 4 October
Video Stars
Race 4 – 9 COLOURFUL WINNER
His first-up effort three weeks ago had plenty of merit, having been pushed forward from a wide draw to stalk the leader. The early and mid-race sectionals were well inside standard, yet he still stuck on bravely to finish fourth, beaten just 1.75 lengths over this track and distance.
With that run under his belt, he should strip fitter second-up and, granted a smoother trip in transit, looks to have a strong chance of finally breaking through.
Race 6 – 3 POSITIVE SMILE
A change of tactics failed to pay off last start, when he settled on the speed from an inside draw before weakening in the straight to finish ninth, beaten 6.25 lengths over this track and distance. That effort may not have been a true reflection of his ability, given the uncharacteristic racing pattern.
A proven performer in Class 4 company, he looks capable of bouncing back with a more patient ride this week.
Sectional Stars
Race 7 – 11 HAPPY PROMISE
Drawn wide last start, he was steadied early to settle off the pace before rattling home strongly to finish fifth over this track and distance. He has since attacked the line well in a recent trial and, with a further drop in the ratings during the off-season, looks well placed to run a big race first-up.
Race 8 – 4 GLITTERING LEGEND
He was last seen producing a strong third over 1800m at Happy Valley in July. The form from that race has since been franked, with winner LE ZONDA going on to score again, adding further merit to the performance. Returning from an 88-day break, he looks capable of making his presence felt fresh and should be primed for another bold showing.
Meet Three Arc Contenders: Daryz, Chestnut Rocket and Arrow Eagle
Meet three of this year’s Arc contenders ahead of Sunday’s big race at ParisLongchamp. Defending champion Daryz returns after another impressive season, while 2025 Polish Derby winner Chestnut Rocket heads to the Arc following a Listed win at Vichy and a close second in the Grand Prix de Deauville. Arrow Eagle, sixth in last year’s Arc and subsequent Group 1 Prix Royal-Oak winner, is also back for another tilt at the Paris showpiece.
Watch the latest videos of Daryz, Chestnut Rocket and Arrow Eagle on our Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe microsite.
2026 Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Preview
The countdown is on to Sunday’s Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at ParisLongchamp.
Watch our 2026 Arc preview for a closer look at this year’s big race and some of the leading contenders. Watch the 2026 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe Preview on our Arc microsite.
Sky Vino faces Class 2 challenge for Fownes at Sha Tin...
Caspar Fownes has made a strong start to the new season and the 2025/26 Hong Kong Champion Trainer is aiming to keep the ball rolling on Sunday (4 October) at Sha Tin.
Fownes, now a five-time title winner in Hong Kong, has fired in five winners through the term’s first seven fixtures. The 59-year-old has trained in the city since 2003/04 after taking over from his late father Lawrie, winning 1,240 races and being renowned for handling Group 1 winners Lucky Nine, Southern Legend and The Duke, among others.
“Five wins coming off a big season (69 wins) – I’m very happy with the stable, and we should be competitive again. We’ll certainly be putting up some good numbers – where it takes us, we don’t know, but we’ll certainly be having another crack at it,” Fownes said.
The trainer’s quintet is bettered by Cody Mo (eight wins) and notorious quick-beginner Pierre Ng (eight), who top the table, while Manfred Man (seven) and David Hall (six) trail. Like Fownes, Danny Shum also has five wins.
“We’ve restructured a bit and we have quite a few new horses in there. We had a few horses last year that were pretty immature; hopefully in their second prep they can improve and add some winners to the tally,” Fownes said. “It’s very competitive now – there are so many big stables and so many have full barns, but we’ll be doing our best.”
Fownes takes six runners to Sha Tin, spearheaded by Sky Vino (115lb) in the HK$3.12 million Class 2 Muk Min Ha Handicap (1650m, dirt). The gelding rises in grade following a pair of course and distance wins last season.
The 79-rated five-year-old links with Alexis Badel and comes up against Chancheng Glory (135lb), Talents Ambition (128lb), Sing Dragon (127lb), Gorgeous Win (122lb), Awesome Fluke (120lb), Definitive (115lb) and Loch Tay (115lb).
“It’s going to be a little bit rich for him running in Class 2, but he carries a nice light weight which gives him a chance to show something,” Fownes said. “There are a few really good dirt horses in the race that might be just a bit better than him.
“He’s prepared well, he’s fit and he looks good. I’m happy with him and he’ll be racing consistently because he’s that type of horse – he doesn’t know how to run a bad race.”
Alpha Strike (131lb) will attempt to secure consecutive victories for Fownes when the gelding carries an extra 11lb in the Class 3 Shing Mun Handicap (1000m).
“It was a nice win. He kept running away from the outside rail, so hopefully that doesn’t happen. He’s up in weight, and Ellis (Wong) is suspended – Jimmy Orman will ride. He’s in good form and there’s no reason why he can’t be competitive again,” Fownes said.
Hong Kong International Sale graduate Corleone (134lb) resumes in the Class 3 Shek Wai Kok Handicap (1650m, dirt) after an impressive three-win 2025/26 campaign.
“Nice horse. He just trialled earlier in the week, and he’s probably got race-fitness to come. He will be improving off the run and hopefully he runs a nice race,” Fownes said.
Fownes saddles Hymnbook (119lb) in the Class 3 Chinese Recreation Club Challenge Cup Handicap (1800m). Silver Spurs and Perfect Team also represent the trainer.
Sunday’s (4 October) 11-race fixture at Sha Tin kicks off at 12.30pm with the Class 5 Chai Wan Kok Handicap (1650m, dirt).
By Declan Schuster
October 4 Selangor Preview By Mark Lydeamore
Senior jockey Jimmy Wong has been maximizing his opportunities since arriving back from his Korean stint and continues his rapid ascension on the premiership following his seven winners over the two days of racing at the Selangor Turf Club last weekend.
Rising to sixth place on the jockey’s ladder with 28 winners, CC Wong has nine riding engagements on the twelve-race program this Sunday commencing with last-start winner PACIFIC SOLDIER, which remains in Class 5C company and is a chance of going back-to-back in Race 1.
WEALTHYNESS drops back to Class 5 grade in Race 2 and despite his recent failure, the gelding chalked up successive minor placings in Class 4 events prior. It will be CC Wong’s first ride on the gelding which has never missed a place in three appearances at Class 5 level.
CC Wong is currently striking at 26% overall but when he teams up with leading trainer Simon Dunderdale, that figure rises to an impressive 33%. The formidable pair combine with progressive four-year-old MEGA ACE which will be produced second-up in the 1020m Class 1 contest (Race 4). This year’s 3YO Sprint Championship winner appeared short of a run when resuming in the 1400m NZB Open Championship on September 5 and looks better suited on the distance drop. In a race that contains an abundance of early speed, MEGA ACE will be clashing with another promising type in YES MAN, which possesses a good first-up record and will also supply the speed influence for the 1020m contest. YES MAN has been sparingly raced this year with only four starts to its credit for two wins, which included the Listed Bunga Raya Vase back in January. Seven-year-old gelding, PACIFIC VAMPIRE is another with barrier speed capable of matching the opposition for early pace. However, PACIFIC VAMPIRE races best if he receives a soft lead and will have to withstand some early pressure from the likes of YES MAN and MEGA ACE which both like to roll forward at barrier rise and are best suited when able to dictate the pace.
Wong combines with Dunderdale in the 1200m Restricted Maiden (Race 6) with NAVARRE CROWN which looks hard to beat under weight-for-age conditions. NAVARRE CROWN should benefit from his recent debut which yielded a 0.75L 2nd behind STRATEGISE, which has since franked that form by winning a Class 4 contest last weekend. NAVARRE CROWN had the tendency to hang in over the concluding stages and considering his last trial was nearly two months earlier, the son of Yes Yes Yes should be more tractable at start number two.
From the recent Selangor trials, LEGENDS NEVER FADE (Trained by Lawson Moy) and SUPERPOWER (trained by Frank Maynard) are both gallopers to keep an eye on in the 1200m Class 3 contest (Race 7). LEGENDS NEVER FADE, formerly known as Denfield, was a three-time winner in Hong Kong and defeated YES MAN in an impressive trial display last month. The seven-year-old will be first-up since December and his three career victories have been recorded over the 1200m trip. SUPERPOWER is a former Australian galloper with a maiden win to its credit and is coming off a thirteen-month break. The five-year-old looked sharp in his 2.5L trial win over Mega Khan on September 8 and the stable is enjoying some success lately from limited runners, especially with recent newcomers. TO REMEMBER has been a black-booker for several weeks now and has the hoof on the till. The five-year-old has caught the eye with some fast-finishing performances, especially his last two efforts when closing off well to finish runner up over 1020m. The step up to the 1200m looks ideal and looks a big chance despite coming from the outside draw.
TRIDENT RISING is on track to maintain an unbeaten local record in the 1200m Class 3 event (Race 8). The four-year-old lived up to his impressive trial form prior and local punters jumped on board backing the former Aussie into even money favorite. TRIDENT RISING was able to stave off all challengers when leading throughout over 1200m here three weeks ago and is well drawn to score again. The danger appears to be NIMBUS STAR which is coming off successive Class 3 placings and draws deep in barrier 10. NIMBUS STAR was a Class 4 winner three starts back and has trained on well judging by his trial performance behind Selangor Mile winner Aquitaine on September 15.
The best quinella pairing for the afternoon comes up in the 1400 Class 2 contest (Race 9) where ANJOU CROWN and COME ON BANKER’S appear to be the major players. ANJOU CROWN has a good record at Class 2 level (2:1-1-0) and is coming off an encouraging 5th (beaten 1.75L) in last Sunday’s G1 Selangor Gold Cup. The five-year-old came off a six-day break when scoring in that Class 2 contest on July 11 so the short break between runs should not pose a problem. COME ON BANKER’S came with a late surge to break his Malaysian duck over 1200m here on September 5, his third start in the country. COME ON BANKER’S scored twice over 1400m in Australia and he looks a winning chance again in the same grade.
Peter, Matsunyane eye Spring Challenge double
The first Grade 2 doubleheader of the new Highveld season takes centre stage at Turffontein on Saturday 3 October, with the R550,000 Betway Joburg Spring Challenge and R450,000 Betway Joburg F&M Spring Challenge providing the feature-race fireworks over 1450m on the Inside track.
Last year’s renewals produced a red-letter afternoon for Sean Tarry, who saddled both winners – Tin Pan Alley and Callmegetrix – and Tony Peter and jockey Kabelo Matsunyane have a realistic chance of matching that feat 12 months on.
Peter-trained Main Defender has unfinished business in the Betway Joburg Spring Challenge. The 2023 winner returns bidding to reclaim his title in Race 7 and, despite gate No 12, looks attractively placed to do so.
The six-year-old Pathfork gelding signalled a return to his best form when finishing a creditable third in the Grade 1 Champions Cup at the end of last season and reproducing that effort would put him right in the firing line to finally end a 553-day drought stretching back to his Grade 2 Hawaii Stakes success in March 2025. Matsunyane knows him well, and this looks a case of Main Defender’s class outweighing the draw.
Stablemate Kisshoten could strike first for the Peter-Matsunyane partnership in Race 6, the fillies and mares’ equivalent.
The versatile six-year-old Erupt mare finished second in the Grade 2 Gold Bracelet over 2000m at the end of last season after an excellent sixth in the Grade 1 Garden Province Stakes over 1600m on July day, where she was beaten just 3.95 lengths despite starting from the widest draw.
Her earlier Standside victory over 1400m is the key pointer. The return to 1450m should present no problem after a 69-day break, and if she reproduces her best form, Kisshoten has every chance of delivering the first half of a Peter-Matsunyane feature double.
With that in mind, the same combination could enjoy a Pick 3 beginning with One State in Race 5 over 1600m. This progressive son of One World has flourished since being gelded, following a 1700m maiden success by winning on his handicap debut over the same distance. There is little reason to believe his upward trajectory will be halted.
For Pick 6 players, however, the biggest question may be where to find the banker. The R500,000 carryover and likely R3-million pool add serious spice to the nine-race programme, and one dependable anchor could make all the difference between a costly permutation and a potentially life-changing dividend.
Enter Bisou Bisou. The Corne and Xander Spies-trained Querari gelding has the profile of the banker punters are looking for. A juvenile winner over 1000m and subsequent Grade 2 runner-up over 1200m, Bisou Bisou confirmed his promise by finishing a close-up third on his three-year-old return 21 days ago.
He reappears in Race 8 off the same mark and returns to the scene of that encouraging comeback. With natural improvement expected from that outing, and Craig Zackey in the saddle, Bisou Bisou has plenty going for him.
Clive Robinson
United Kingdom Express Form & Race Previews (Newmarket/York/Southwell) – Saturday, October...
Download your daily UK express form for FREE:
RACE 1: MODERN GAMES DARLEY STAKES (GROUP 3) (G3) (FROM NEWMARKET RACE 1) – 1811M | TIME: 20:15 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 95000
THE LOST KING Wore hood, raced near side, kept close to leaders, improved in final 600m, 2nd by 5 lengths at Newmarket 1600m in September. HAATEM (IRE) Wide, held well, won 1600m All Stakes at Kentucky Downs, beating Lagynos by neck in September. BOILING POINT (IRE) Led, headed before 200m, pushed 400m out, ridden 200m out, rallied final 100m, finished 2nd, 5 lengths behind Respond at Goodwood 2000m in September. HIGH STOCK Stayed 5th, weakened inside over 400m out, challenged for 4th at 200m, finished 5th, 6 lengths behind Fast Tracker at Ayr 2000m Listed Stakes in September.
RACE 2: SKY BET ROCKINGHAM STAKES (LISTED) (LR) (FROM YORK RACE 1) – 1207M | TIME: 20:30 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 70000
AGAMEMNON Midfield, weakened in final 200m, finished 7th, 4. 5 lengths behind Final Objective in 1000m 2YO Group 2 at Doncaster in September. DIVINE WHISPER Slow start, held at rear, moved left entering final 200m, chased leaders, kept pace, finished 3rd, 2.25 lengths behind Wild Blossom at Goodwood 1000m in July. ANGELS PASSING (IRE) Midfield, waited for room over 400m out, shifted near side over 200m, modest progress, finished 10th, 9 lengths behind Libertango at York 1200m 2YO Filly Group 2 in August. CUT A DASH Broke slowly, stayed rear, some progress over 400m out, finished 5th, 3 lengths behind winner at Newbury 1200m 2YO Group 2 in September.
RACE 3: NATIVE TRAIL ZETLAND STAKES (GROUP 3) (G3) (FROM NEWMARKET RACE 2) – 2012M | TIME: 20:50 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 75000
DRUMBEAT (IRE) Soon tracked leader, stayed in touch after 600m, dropped to 4th over 400m out, finished 3rd, 2.75 lengths behind winner at Curragh 1600m in September. SWORD SALUTE (USA) Led, headed inside final 200m, no extra in last 100m, finished 2nd, 1.75 lengths behind Quite Cheeky at Epsom Downs 1700m 2YO Stakes in September. WYKEHURST PARK Wore hood, tracked leaders, switched left near final 200m, led final 100m, won 1800m 2YO Novice Stakes at Yarmouth by 1 length in September. APULIA BAY (IRE) Tracked leaders, challenged 200m out, stayed on well, finished 3rd, 1.5 lengths behind Bin Jahwar at Newbury 1600m Novice Stakes in September.
RACE 4: SKY BET FOR THE FANS HANDICAP (GBBPLUS RACE) (2) (FROM YORK RACE 2) – 2063M | TIME: 21:05 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 50000
WATER TO WINE (FR) Slow start, restrained at rear, pushed at 600m out , weakened, finished 3rd, 10 lengths behind winner Causeway in 2400m in June. ANCESTOR Led early over 400m, pressed at 200m out, headed in final 200m, weakened to finish 6th, 3.5 lengths behind winner at 2400m in September. WAHDAN (IRE) Midfield, tracked leaders 400m out, chased leader entering final 200m, led last 100m, won easily by 1.5 lengths at Pontefract 2000m Handicap in September. GREY CUBAN Soon led, headed 400m out, finished 3rd 200m out, 5 lengths behind Fast Tracker at Ayr 2000m Listed Stakes in September.
RACE 5: EMIRATES AUTUMN STAKES (GROUP 3) (G3) (FROM NEWMARKET RACE 3) – 1609M | TIME: 21:25 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 75000
ROCK MONTREAL (IRE) Held in midfield, ridden over 400m out, gained headway final 200m, finished 2nd by a head to Forbidden Fire at Doncaster 1400m in September. SERGEI DIAGHILEV (IRE) Led, headed 400m out, briefly led again 200m out, finished 3 lengths 2nd to Desert Castle over 1400m at Doncaster in September. NOTABLE DREAM (IRE) Prominent, pushed 400m out, chased leaders, took 2nd by 0.75 lengths at Newmarket 1400m 2YO Group 3 in September. AL JABBAR (IRE) Led and held on, won Doncaster 1600m 2YO Maiden Stakes, narrowly beating Hmas Perth by head in September.
RACE 6: SKY BET PETER NOLAN HANDICAP (4) (FROM YORK RACE 3) – 1584M | TIME: 21:40 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 25000
WEFFAAG Held up, keen, moved 2nd 400m out, led final 200m, pressed last 100m, won by neck at Newcastle 1400m Novice Stakes in September. CANVAS Led over 400m out, won comfortably by 3.5 lengths at Wolverhampton 1900m Handicap in October. MISS LADY GRACE (IRE) Mid-division, wide, weakened in last 400m, finished 8th, 5 lengths behind Town Queen over 1400m Handicap at Southwell in September. JEZ BOMB Held up at rear, ridden over 400m out, no clear run near 200m, finished 6th, 5 lengths behind Wahdan at Pontefract 2000m Handicap in September.
RACE 7: DARLEY DEWHURST STAKES (GROUP 1) (G1) (FROM NEWMARKET RACE 4) – 1408M | TIME: 22:00 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 500000
DESERT CASTLE Held up in rear, smooth progress 400m out, led over 200m, won impressively by 3 lengths at Doncaster 1400m Group 2 in September. DARKNESS FALLS (IRE) Broke well, tracked leaders, led over 200m out, pushed strongly, won Leopardstown 1800m 2YO Group 1 , beating Jesus Green in September. GREAT BARRIER REEF (IRE) Led by 1 length halfway, pressed and headed near finish, finished 2nd, neck behind winner at Curragh 1200m Group 3 in August. GENTLE HURRICANE (IRE) Prominent led until 400m out, weakened past 200m, finished 4th, 7 lengths behind Desert Castle over 1400m at Doncaster in September.
RACE 8: SKY BET SPRINT TROPHY HANDICAP (HERITAGE HANDICAP) (2) (FROM YORK RACE 4) – 1207M | TIME: 22:17 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 100000
OLD IS GOLD (IRE) Took lead after start, pulled clear over last 200m , won Newmarket 1200m Handicap by 4 lengths from Sierra Sands in September. AL SHABAB STORM Tracked mid-division, moved left and right over last 200m, finished 3rd, 0.75 lengths behind Air Force One at Doncaster 1200m Handicap in September. ANNAF (IRE) Began right, shifted left, raced near side, held back, ridden 400m out, kept on final 200m, no impression last 100m , finished 10th at 1200m in October. BINHAREER (IRE) Raced far side, rear, improved inside last 200m, never threatening, finished 9th, 8 lengths behind Pellitory over 1200m Handicap at Ayr in September.
RACE 9: DEMENTIA FORWARD U&ME EBF MAIDEN STAKES (GBB RACE) (2) (FROM YORK RACE 5) – 1584M | TIME: 22:57 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 30000
IRON STONE LAD Tracked leader, lost ground 400m out, rallied in final 200m, finished 2nd, 2.25 lengths behind winner at Newbury 1400m in September. NATIONAL ANTHEM Camelot colt out of Tisa River. COLONISER (IRE) Held up at rear, pushed forward 400m out, briefly 2nd at 200m, finished 4th, 3 lengths behind winner at 1400m in September. YOUCANBETHEONE (IRE) Midfield, ridden 400m out, crowded near 200m, finished 3rd, 1.5 lengths behind Zarak Crown at Ayr 1600m 2YO Novice Stakes in September.
RACE 10: TRIPLE TIME MAIDEN FILLIES’ STAKES (GBB RACE) (2) (FROM NEWMARKET RACE 6) – 1408M | TIME: 23:15 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 20000
DESERT ROMANCE Dubawi filly out of Sundoro. CULLENAGH RAINBOW (IRE) Slow start, held mid- division, improved over last 200m, finished 3rd, 2. 25 lengths behind Coaxed at Kempton 1400m in August . PROBING Frankel filly out of Kurious. FRIENDLY FORCE Settled 4th, ridden over 400m out, under pressure, stayed same pace, finished 5th, 7 lengths behind winner at 1400m in September.
RACE 11: SKY BET EXTRA PLACES HANDICAP (GBBPLUS RACE) (3) (FROM YORK RACE 6) – 2787M | TIME: 23:32 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 30000
DIVINE KNIGHT (IRE) Taken down early, led central, steady pace quickened 400m out, won at Yarmouth 2800m Handicap in September. MASTER BUILDER Slow start, midfield, gained ground over 400m out, faded past 200m, finished 12th, 38 lengths behind winner at York 2400m Handicap in August. BULLETIN (IRE) Ridden 3rd over 400m out, gained ground but finished 2nd, 2.5 lengths behind Pearl River in 2600m Handicap at Newbury in September. REAL DREAM (IRE) Wore hood, started rear, moved up over 600m out, switched right 400m out, improved to 4th, 6 lengths behind winner at Newbury 2600m Handicap in September.
RACE 12: DUBAI RACING CLUB NURSERY (3) (FROM NEWMARKET RACE 7) – 1408M | TIME: 23:50 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 20000
NATIONAL HONOUR (IRE) Midfield, pushed, gained ground 400m out, led last 100m, won Kempton 1400m Novice Stakes by 1.25 lengths over Solar Swing in September. MAJESTIC JUDE (IRE) Earplugs removed start, raced freely, led and drew clear in final 200m, comfortably won 1400m 2YO Novice Stakes at Thirsk in September. MOBADIR (IRE) Led most, ridden from 200m out, won Newbury 1400m 2YO Handicap, beating Primal by 1.25 lengths in August. DANDYMAN DAN (IRE) Led early, headed 400m out, weakened to finish 6th , 7 lengths behind Forbidden Fire over 1400m at Doncaster in September.
RACE 13: SKY BET PRICE BOOSTS HANDICAP (GBBPLUS RACE) (4) (FROM YORK RACE 7) – 2063M | TIME: 00:07 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 25000
POL ROGER (IRE) Led after 600m, extended lead to 2 lengths, won comfortably by 2.25 lengths at Redcar 2000m Handicap in September. ALMEKAREM (IRE) Wore hood, keen early, switched left and ridden 600m out, weakened entering final 200m, finished 10th, 13 lengths behind winner at Newbury 2000m Handicap in September. BE THE STANDARD (FR) Wore hood, led near side 1000m out, lost position 600m out, rallied to finish 2nd, 1.75 lengths behind winner at 1800m in September. ASHNAK (FR) Slow start, held at rear, improved 400m out, pushed, finished 4th, 4.5 lengths behind Pearl Eye at Ayr 2600m Handicap in September .
RACE 14: BROOKLYN GROUND WORKS FILLIES’ NOVICE STAKES (GBB RACE) (4) (FROM SOUTHWELL RACE 4) – 1421M | TIME: 00:55 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 10000
GRANITEVILLE (IRE) Carried right start, keen, held midfield, ridden 400m out, stayed on, finished 4th, 2.75 lengths behind winner at 1600m Novice Stakes in August. LIGHT SNOWF ALL Too Darn Hot filly out of Wanderwell. ARDANGEL Ardad filly out of Frosted Angel. ARABIAN SUMMER (IRE) Tracked inside, made headway over 200m out, held pace in final 200m, finished 6th, 3.5 lengths behind Jettie’s Run at Kempton 1200m in October 2024.
RACE 15: PEPSI MAX HANDICAP (DIV 1) (6) (FROM SOUTHWELL RACE 5) – 1222M | TIME: 01:30 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 7200
GO LOCKERS GO Led in final 100m, won 1200m Handicap at Wolverhampton, beating Methgal by 1 length in September. WISE CRACK (IRE) Tracked 4th, pressed leader after 400m, lost 2nd near finish, finished 3rd, 2 lengths behind Highfield Viking at 1400m Handicap in September. IRISH INCENTIVE (IRE) Midfield, improved over last 200m, no extra inside final 200m, finished 3rd, 3.5 lengths behind Soul Warrior at Redcar 1400m Handicap in September. PILGRIM’S PROGRESS Awkward start, rear midfield, outpaced 600m out, no impression 200m out, weakened final 200m, finished 9th, 16 lengths behind winner at 1700m in September.
RACE 16: PEPSI MAX HANDICAP (DIV 2) (6) (FROM SOUTHWELL RACE 6) – 1222M | TIME: 02:00 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 7200
EIGHTTHREEONE Mid-division, moved outside 400m out, led final 200m, won Yarmouth 1200m Handicap by 1 length over Koffee And Kale in October. TOPTIME Handily led narrowly 400m out, held on strongly to win 1000m Handicap, beating Guernsey Angel by 0.5 lengths in October. JESSE LUC Wore hood, keen at rear, ridden, improved over last 200m, finished 3rd, 2.5 lengths behind winner at Southwell 1200m Handicap in September. RILEY ROCKS Raced near rear, never involved, finished 11th, 14 lengths behind Distant Rumble at Windsor 1200m Handicap in September.
RACE 17: PILSNER TO THE POST HANDICAP (5) (FROM SOUTHWELL RACE 7) – 1000M | TIME: 02:30 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 8400
TANJEN (IRE) Led 400m out, won impressively at Hamilton 1000m Handicap, beating Ashen by 1.5 lengths in September. STAR NOIR Made all, shaken up 400m out, went clear over 200m , unchallenged, won 1000m Novice Stakes, beating Night Shining by 9 lengths in August. GOYARD (IRE) Soon outpaced, stayed on strongly from 400m out, finished 2nd, 0.5 lengths behind Courageous Sioux in 1000m Handicap at Southwell in September. BRAZILIAN BELLE (IRE) Held mid-division, ridden 400m out, kept pace from 200m out, finished 5th, 3.5 lengths behind Courageous Sioux at Southwell 1000m Handicap in September.
RACE 18: BEERLY A WINNER HANDICAP (5) (FROM SOUTHWELL RACE 8) – 2836M | TIME: 03:00 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 8400
HALIMEDE (IRE) Led early, challenged 600m out, headed 200m out, fought back to just hold 2nd over 2400m Handicap at Thirsk in August. L’EAGLE AID (IRE) Held up mid-division, ridden over 400m out, stayed on over 200m out, finished 3rd, 1.75 lengths behind Jujubella at Newcastle 2400m Handicap in October. ROKER ROAR (IRE) Disputed lead early, prominent, ridden over 400m out, no quicken over 200m, finished 4th, 2 lengths behind Patrol at Southwell 2400m Handicap in September. DUST COVER Mid-division, ridden 400m out, gained headway 200m out, finished 5th, 7 lengths behind Kokbastau at Kempton 2400m Handicap in August.
RACE 19: GENTS NIGHT SATURDAY 24TH OCTOBER HANDICAP (5) (FROM SOUTHWELL RACE 9) – 2427M | TIME: 03:30 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 8400
LILL Y LUX (FR) Always led, pulled 400m from finish, won at Wolverhampton 1900m Fillies Handicap, beating Renesmee by 0.5 lengths in September. FLIGHTOFTHEPHOENIX (IRE) Held up at rear, improved over 200m out, finished 3rd, 1.25 lengths behind Patrol at Southwell 2400m Handicap in September. DOMINATION (IRE) Stayed mid-pack, improved 400m out, weakened in final 200m, finished 5th, 3.5 lengths behind Rizal at Redcar 2000m Handicap in September. MELODY DE VEGA (IRE) Wore hood, held rear, improved over 200m out, blocked inside final 200m, finished 3rd, 1.25 lengths behind winner at Southwell 2200m Handicap in September.
RACE 1: MODERN GAMES DARLEY STAKES (GROUP 3) (G3) (FROM NEWMARKET RACE 1) – 1811M | TIME: 20:15 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 95000
THE LOST KING Wore hood, raced near side, kept close to leaders, improved in final 600m, 2nd by 5 lengths at Newmarket 1600m in September. HAATEM (IRE) Wide, held well, won 1600m All Stakes at Kentucky Downs, beating Lagynos by neck in September. BOILING POINT (IRE) Led, headed before 200m, pushed 400m out, ridden 200m out, rallied final 100m, finished 2nd, 5 lengths behind Respond at Goodwood 2000m in September. HIGH STOCK Stayed 5th, weakened inside over 400m out, challenged for 4th at 200m, finished 5th, 6 lengths behind Fast Tracker at Ayr 2000m Listed Stakes in September.
RACE 2: SKY BET ROCKINGHAM STAKES (LISTED) (LR) (FROM YORK RACE 1) – 1207M | TIME: 20:30 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 70000
AGAMEMNON Midfield, weakened in final 200m, finished 7th, 4. 5 lengths behind Final Objective in 1000m 2YO Group 2 at Doncaster in September. DIVINE WHISPER Slow start, held at rear, moved left entering final 200m, chased leaders, kept pace, finished 3rd, 2.25 lengths behind Wild Blossom at Goodwood 1000m in July. ANGELS PASSING (IRE) Midfield, waited for room over 400m out, shifted near side over 200m, modest progress, finished 10th, 9 lengths behind Libertango at York 1200m 2YO Filly Group 2 in August. CUT A DASH Broke slowly, stayed rear, some progress over 400m out, finished 5th, 3 lengths behind winner at Newbury 1200m 2YO Group 2 in September.
RACE 3: NATIVE TRAIL ZETLAND STAKES (GROUP 3) (G3) (FROM NEWMARKET RACE 2) – 2012M | TIME: 20:50 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 75000
DRUMBEAT (IRE) Soon tracked leader, stayed in touch after 600m, dropped to 4th over 400m out, finished 3rd, 2.75 lengths behind winner at Curragh 1600m in September. SWORD SALUTE (USA) Led, headed inside final 200m, no extra in last 100m, finished 2nd, 1.75 lengths behind Quite Cheeky at Epsom Downs 1700m 2YO Stakes in September. WYKEHURST PARK Wore hood, tracked leaders, switched left near final 200m, led final 100m, won 1800m 2YO Novice Stakes at Yarmouth by 1 length in September. APULIA BAY (IRE) Tracked leaders, challenged 200m out, stayed on well, finished 3rd, 1.5 lengths behind Bin Jahwar at Newbury 1600m Novice Stakes in September.
RACE 4: SKY BET FOR THE FANS HANDICAP (GBBPLUS RACE) (2) (FROM YORK RACE 2) – 2063M | TIME: 21:05 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 50000
WATER TO WINE (FR) Slow start, restrained at rear, pushed at 600m out , weakened, finished 3rd, 10 lengths behind winner Causeway in 2400m in June. ANCESTOR Led early over 400m, pressed at 200m out, headed in final 200m, weakened to finish 6th, 3.5 lengths behind winner at 2400m in September. WAHDAN (IRE) Midfield, tracked leaders 400m out, chased leader entering final 200m, led last 100m, won easily by 1.5 lengths at Pontefract 2000m Handicap in September. GREY CUBAN Soon led, headed 400m out, finished 3rd 200m out, 5 lengths behind Fast Tracker at Ayr 2000m Listed Stakes in September.
RACE 5: EMIRATES AUTUMN STAKES (GROUP 3) (G3) (FROM NEWMARKET RACE 3) – 1609M | TIME: 21:25 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 75000
ROCK MONTREAL (IRE) Held in midfield, ridden over 400m out, gained headway final 200m, finished 2nd by a head to Forbidden Fire at Doncaster 1400m in September. SERGEI DIAGHILEV (IRE) Led, headed 400m out, briefly led again 200m out, finished 3 lengths 2nd to Desert Castle over 1400m at Doncaster in September. NOTABLE DREAM (IRE) Prominent, pushed 400m out, chased leaders, took 2nd by 0.75 lengths at Newmarket 1400m 2YO Group 3 in September. AL JABBAR (IRE) Led and held on, won Doncaster 1600m 2YO Maiden Stakes, narrowly beating Hmas Perth by head in September.
RACE 6: SKY BET PETER NOLAN HANDICAP (4) (FROM YORK RACE 3) – 1584M | TIME: 21:40 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 25000
WEFFAAG Held up, keen, moved 2nd 400m out, led final 200m, pressed last 100m, won by neck at Newcastle 1400m Novice Stakes in September. CANVAS Led over 400m out, won comfortably by 3.5 lengths at Wolverhampton 1900m Handicap in October. MISS LADY GRACE (IRE) Mid-division, wide, weakened in last 400m, finished 8th, 5 lengths behind Town Queen over 1400m Handicap at Southwell in September. JEZ BOMB Held up at rear, ridden over 400m out, no clear run near 200m, finished 6th, 5 lengths behind Wahdan at Pontefract 2000m Handicap in September.
RACE 7: DARLEY DEWHURST STAKES (GROUP 1) (G1) (FROM NEWMARKET RACE 4) – 1408M | TIME: 22:00 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 500000
DESERT CASTLE Held up in rear, smooth progress 400m out, led over 200m, won impressively by 3 lengths at Doncaster 1400m Group 2 in September. DARKNESS FALLS (IRE) Broke well, tracked leaders, led over 200m out, pushed strongly, won Leopardstown 1800m 2YO Group 1 , beating Jesus Green in September. GREAT BARRIER REEF (IRE) Led by 1 length halfway, pressed and headed near finish, finished 2nd, neck behind winner at Curragh 1200m Group 3 in August. GENTLE HURRICANE (IRE) Prominent led until 400m out, weakened past 200m, finished 4th, 7 lengths behind Desert Castle over 1400m at Doncaster in September.
RACE 8: SKY BET SPRINT TROPHY HANDICAP (HERITAGE HANDICAP) (2) (FROM YORK RACE 4) – 1207M | TIME: 22:17 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 100000
OLD IS GOLD (IRE) Took lead after start, pulled clear over last 200m , won Newmarket 1200m Handicap by 4 lengths from Sierra Sands in September. AL SHABAB STORM Tracked mid-division, moved left and right over last 200m, finished 3rd, 0.75 lengths behind Air Force One at Doncaster 1200m Handicap in September. ANNAF (IRE) Began right, shifted left, raced near side, held back, ridden 400m out, kept on final 200m, no impression last 100m , finished 10th at 1200m in October. BINHAREER (IRE) Raced far side, rear, improved inside last 200m, never threatening, finished 9th, 8 lengths behind Pellitory over 1200m Handicap at Ayr in September.
RACE 9: DEMENTIA FORWARD U&ME EBF MAIDEN STAKES (GBB RACE) (2) (FROM YORK RACE 5) – 1584M | TIME: 22:57 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 30000
IRON STONE LAD Tracked leader, lost ground 400m out, rallied in final 200m, finished 2nd, 2.25 lengths behind winner at Newbury 1400m in September. NATIONAL ANTHEM Camelot colt out of Tisa River. COLONISER (IRE) Held up at rear, pushed forward 400m out, briefly 2nd at 200m, finished 4th, 3 lengths behind winner at 1400m in September. YOUCANBETHEONE (IRE) Midfield, ridden 400m out, crowded near 200m, finished 3rd, 1.5 lengths behind Zarak Crown at Ayr 1600m 2YO Novice Stakes in September.
RACE 10: TRIPLE TIME MAIDEN FILLIES’ STAKES (GBB RACE) (2) (FROM NEWMARKET RACE 6) – 1408M | TIME: 23:15 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 20000
DESERT ROMANCE Dubawi filly out of Sundoro. CULLENAGH RAINBOW (IRE) Slow start, held mid- division, improved over last 200m, finished 3rd, 2. 25 lengths behind Coaxed at Kempton 1400m in August . PROBING Frankel filly out of Kurious. FRIENDLY FORCE Settled 4th, ridden over 400m out, under pressure, stayed same pace, finished 5th, 7 lengths behind winner at 1400m in September.
RACE 11: SKY BET EXTRA PLACES HANDICAP (GBBPLUS RACE) (3) (FROM YORK RACE 6) – 2787M | TIME: 23:32 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 30000
DIVINE KNIGHT (IRE) Taken down early, led central, steady pace quickened 400m out, won at Yarmouth 2800m Handicap in September. MASTER BUILDER Slow start, midfield, gained ground over 400m out, faded past 200m, finished 12th, 38 lengths behind winner at York 2400m Handicap in August. BULLETIN (IRE) Ridden 3rd over 400m out, gained ground but finished 2nd, 2.5 lengths behind Pearl River in 2600m Handicap at Newbury in September. REAL DREAM (IRE) Wore hood, started rear, moved up over 600m out, switched right 400m out, improved to 4th, 6 lengths behind winner at Newbury 2600m Handicap in September.
RACE 12: DUBAI RACING CLUB NURSERY (3) (FROM NEWMARKET RACE 7) – 1408M | TIME: 23:50 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 20000
NATIONAL HONOUR (IRE) Midfield, pushed, gained ground 400m out, led last 100m, won Kempton 1400m Novice Stakes by 1.25 lengths over Solar Swing in September. MAJESTIC JUDE (IRE) Earplugs removed start, raced freely, led and drew clear in final 200m, comfortably won 1400m 2YO Novice Stakes at Thirsk in September. MOBADIR (IRE) Led most, ridden from 200m out, won Newbury 1400m 2YO Handicap, beating Primal by 1.25 lengths in August. DANDYMAN DAN (IRE) Led early, headed 400m out, weakened to finish 6th , 7 lengths behind Forbidden Fire over 1400m at Doncaster in September.
RACE 13: SKY BET PRICE BOOSTS HANDICAP (GBBPLUS RACE) (4) (FROM YORK RACE 7) – 2063M | TIME: 00:07 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 25000
POL ROGER (IRE) Led after 600m, extended lead to 2 lengths, won comfortably by 2.25 lengths at Redcar 2000m Handicap in September. ALMEKAREM (IRE) Wore hood, keen early, switched left and ridden 600m out, weakened entering final 200m, finished 10th, 13 lengths behind winner at Newbury 2000m Handicap in September. BE THE STANDARD (FR) Wore hood, led near side 1000m out, lost position 600m out, rallied to finish 2nd, 1.75 lengths behind winner at 1800m in September. ASHNAK (FR) Slow start, held at rear, improved 400m out, pushed, finished 4th, 4.5 lengths behind Pearl Eye at Ayr 2600m Handicap in September .
RACE 14: BROOKLYN GROUND WORKS FILLIES’ NOVICE STAKES (GBB RACE) (4) (FROM SOUTHWELL RACE 4) – 1421M | TIME: 00:55 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 10000
GRANITEVILLE (IRE) Carried right start, keen, held midfield, ridden 400m out, stayed on, finished 4th, 2.75 lengths behind winner at 1600m Novice Stakes in August. LIGHT SNOWF ALL Too Darn Hot filly out of Wanderwell. ARDANGEL Ardad filly out of Frosted Angel. ARABIAN SUMMER (IRE) Tracked inside, made headway over 200m out, held pace in final 200m, finished 6th, 3.5 lengths behind Jettie’s Run at Kempton 1200m in October 2024.
RACE 15: PEPSI MAX HANDICAP (DIV 1) (6) (FROM SOUTHWELL RACE 5) – 1222M | TIME: 01:30 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 7200
GO LOCKERS GO Led in final 100m, won 1200m Handicap at Wolverhampton, beating Methgal by 1 length in September. WISE CRACK (IRE) Tracked 4th, pressed leader after 400m, lost 2nd near finish, finished 3rd, 2 lengths behind Highfield Viking at 1400m Handicap in September. IRISH INCENTIVE (IRE) Midfield, improved over last 200m, no extra inside final 200m, finished 3rd, 3.5 lengths behind Soul Warrior at Redcar 1400m Handicap in September. PILGRIM’S PROGRESS Awkward start, rear midfield, outpaced 600m out, no impression 200m out, weakened final 200m, finished 9th, 16 lengths behind winner at 1700m in September.
RACE 16: PEPSI MAX HANDICAP (DIV 2) (6) (FROM SOUTHWELL RACE 6) – 1222M | TIME: 02:00 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 7200
EIGHTTHREEONE Mid-division, moved outside 400m out, led final 200m, won Yarmouth 1200m Handicap by 1 length over Koffee And Kale in October. TOPTIME Handily led narrowly 400m out, held on strongly to win 1000m Handicap, beating Guernsey Angel by 0.5 lengths in October. JESSE LUC Wore hood, keen at rear, ridden, improved over last 200m, finished 3rd, 2.5 lengths behind winner at Southwell 1200m Handicap in September. RILEY ROCKS Raced near rear, never involved, finished 11th, 14 lengths behind Distant Rumble at Windsor 1200m Handicap in September.
RACE 17: PILSNER TO THE POST HANDICAP (5) (FROM SOUTHWELL RACE 7) – 1000M | TIME: 02:30 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 8400
TANJEN (IRE) Led 400m out, won impressively at Hamilton 1000m Handicap, beating Ashen by 1.5 lengths in September. STAR NOIR Made all, shaken up 400m out, went clear over 200m , unchallenged, won 1000m Novice Stakes, beating Night Shining by 9 lengths in August. GOYARD (IRE) Soon outpaced, stayed on strongly from 400m out, finished 2nd, 0.5 lengths behind Courageous Sioux in 1000m Handicap at Southwell in September. BRAZILIAN BELLE (IRE) Held mid-division, ridden 400m out, kept pace from 200m out, finished 5th, 3.5 lengths behind Courageous Sioux at Southwell 1000m Handicap in September.
RACE 18: BEERLY A WINNER HANDICAP (5) (FROM SOUTHWELL RACE 8) – 2836M | TIME: 03:00 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 8400
HALIMEDE (IRE) Led early, challenged 600m out, headed 200m out, fought back to just hold 2nd over 2400m Handicap at Thirsk in August. L’EAGLE AID (IRE) Held up mid-division, ridden over 400m out, stayed on over 200m out, finished 3rd, 1.75 lengths behind Jujubella at Newcastle 2400m Handicap in October. ROKER ROAR (IRE) Disputed lead early, prominent, ridden over 400m out, no quicken over 200m, finished 4th, 2 lengths behind Patrol at Southwell 2400m Handicap in September. DUST COVER Mid-division, ridden 400m out, gained headway 200m out, finished 5th, 7 lengths behind Kokbastau at Kempton 2400m Handicap in August.
RACE 19: GENTS NIGHT SATURDAY 24TH OCTOBER HANDICAP (5) (FROM SOUTHWELL RACE 9) – 2427M | TIME: 03:30 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 8400
LILL Y LUX (FR) Always led, pulled 400m from finish, won at Wolverhampton 1900m Fillies Handicap, beating Renesmee by 0.5 lengths in September. FLIGHTOFTHEPHOENIX (IRE) Held up at rear, improved over 200m out, finished 3rd, 1.25 lengths behind Patrol at Southwell 2400m Handicap in September. DOMINATION (IRE) Stayed mid-pack, improved 400m out, weakened in final 200m, finished 5th, 3.5 lengths behind Rizal at Redcar 2000m Handicap in September. MELODY DE VEGA (IRE) Wore hood, held rear, improved over 200m out, blocked inside final 200m, finished 3rd, 1.25 lengths behind winner at Southwell 2200m Handicap in September.
France Express Form & Race Previews (Chantilly) – Saturday, October 10
Download your daily France express form for FREE:
RACE 1: PRIX DE LA MANIGUETTE MAIDEN STAKES (2YO) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 1) – 1600M | TIME: 19:40 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 27400
ROYAL SPIRIT (IRE) Threatening to win and was runner-up in a Class 2 at Chantilly over 1600m on 14 September on second run. Improving and can get off the mark. KING’S ROAD (FR) Ran well to be second at ParisLongchamp over 1600m in a Condition on debut on 3 September. Open to progress and can feature. MOI NON PLUS (USA) Showed talent when fourth at ParisLongchamp over 1600m on debut in a Condition on 3 September. Will know more this time and has to be respected. EXPLORATEUR (IRE) Shown promise to be second on debut at Saint- Cloud over 1500m in a Condition on 18 September. Can step forward from that and make an impact.
RACE 2: PRIX SARACA LISTED STAKES (2YO) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 2) – 1400M | TIME: 20:15 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 54900
ZEN POETRY (IRE) Outclassed the opposition in a Maiden at Saint-Cloud over 1400m on 11 September on latest start. Looks progressive and can follow up. HINATA GREY (IRE) Came home fourth in a Group 2 at Deauville over 1400m on 23 August last time. Key player. EVENEMENTIELLE Won in a Maiden at Chantilly over 1600m on 23 September on second start. Hard to rule out. SIDEWALKOFBROADWA Y (IRE) Shown promise to be third at Deauville over 1500m in a Condition on 8 August. Will know more this time and has to be considered.
RACE 3: PRIX DE LA FORTERELLE MAIDEN STAKES (2YO) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 3) – 1600M | TIME: 20:50 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 27400
ATIKA (FR) Nice second on debut at ParisLongchamp over 1600m in a Condition on 3 September. Can step forward from that and get off the mark. NABIRA (FR) Showed nice promise to be fourth at ParisLongchamp over 1600m on racecourse bow in a Condition on 3 September. One to pay attention to. LA THEBAIDE Good debut second at Chantilly in a Condition over 1500m on 18 September . Open to progress and cannot be ignored. PETITE VAGABONDE (FR) Pleasing third at Saint-Cloud on debut in a Condition over 1500m on 18 September. Can improve and warrants attention.
RACE 4: CRITERIUM DE MAISONS-LAFFITTE STAKES – GROUP 2 (2YO) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 4) – 1200M | TIME: 21:32 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 173800
SCYTHE (IRE) Good second in a Group 3 at Chantilly over 1200m on 19 September last time after a win on debut. Player. JOLIVETTE Ran well to be second at Newbury in a Group 2 over 1200m when narrowly beaten on 19 September. Can make presence felt. ACCLAMATION STAR Nice win in a Group 3 over 1200m at Salisbury on latest start on 3 September. Improving and can make an impact. AL HAMAAD (FR) Successful in a Maiden at Saint-Cloud over 1200m on 18 September on second start. Up in class and warrants respect.
RACE 5: PRIX DE COYE STAKES (4YO+) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 5) – 1400M | TIME: 22:07 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 34800
TOMAKAY (FR) Credible fourth in a Class 1 Condition over 1400m at Deauville on 22 August. Strong winning chance. ZOOM (FR) Pleasing fifth in a Class 1 Condition over 1400m at Deauville on 22 August. Each-way chance. FERRARI FEVER (FR) A winner in a Class 2 Condition over 1600m at Chantilly on 14 September. Has the ability to follow up. SAIDI ELFAL (FR) Consecutive second in a Class 2 Condition over 1600m at Chantilly on 14 September. Place chance.
RACE 6: PRIX DE L’ABBAYE DE CHALIS HANDICAP (HCP) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 6) – 1200M | TIME: 22:42 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 22100
VATANEZ (FR) Hearty sixth in a Maiden over 1600m at Craon on 5 September. Will be eager to shed maiden. DALMORA (FR) Better effort into third in a Maiden over 1400m at Strasbourg on 13 September. Each-way chance. AIRLIE BEACH (FR) A winner in a Maiden over 1300m at Craon on 28 September. Confidence should be up and can give a good account. ADHARA (FR) Decent fourth in a Maiden over 1600m at Amiens on 27 September. Place chance in this field.
RACE 7: PRIX LE FABULEUX LISTED STAKES (3YO) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 7) – 1800M | TIME: 23:17 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 50300
REGAL RESOLVE Consecutive second in a Listed over 1800m at Borde aux Le Bouscat on 23 May. Returns after a break but has a strong winning chance. SEGALL (IRE) Furnished into third in a Group 3 over 1600m at Deauville on 9 August. Good each-way chance. BASHA (FR) Positive second in a Listed over 2000m at Deauville on 16 August. Will be flying at them. BALZAC (GER) A firm winner in a Handicap over 2000m at Newbury on 19 September. First run on French soil and can be lethal.
RACE 8: PRIX DE LA COLLERAIE HANDICAP (HCP) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 8) – 1800M | TIME: 23:52 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 24000
NOCE DE RUBIS (FR) Cruised into second in a Class 2 Handicap over 1800m at Clairefontaine on 3 August. Strong winning chance. MARQUES (FR) Positive second in a Class 3 Handicap over 1800m at Chantilly on 4 September. Winning chance. ROMANCE MARINE (FR) Pleasant third in a Class 3 Handicap over 1600m at Chantilly on 23 September. Place chance. UTXA (IRE) A firm winner in a Class 3 Condition over 1800m at Compiegne on 15 September. Can follow up.
RACE 1: PRIX DE LA MANIGUETTE MAIDEN STAKES (2YO) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 1) – 1600M | TIME: 19:40 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 27400
ROYAL SPIRIT (IRE) Threatening to win and was runner-up in a Class 2 at Chantilly over 1600m on 14 September on second run. Improving and can get off the mark. KING’S ROAD (FR) Ran well to be second at ParisLongchamp over 1600m in a Condition on debut on 3 September. Open to progress and can feature. MOI NON PLUS (USA) Showed talent when fourth at ParisLongchamp over 1600m on debut in a Condition on 3 September. Will know more this time and has to be respected. EXPLORATEUR (IRE) Shown promise to be second on debut at Saint- Cloud over 1500m in a Condition on 18 September. Can step forward from that and make an impact.
RACE 2: PRIX SARACA LISTED STAKES (2YO) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 2) – 1400M | TIME: 20:15 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 54900
ZEN POETRY (IRE) Outclassed the opposition in a Maiden at Saint-Cloud over 1400m on 11 September on latest start. Looks progressive and can follow up. HINATA GREY (IRE) Came home fourth in a Group 2 at Deauville over 1400m on 23 August last time. Key player. EVENEMENTIELLE Won in a Maiden at Chantilly over 1600m on 23 September on second start. Hard to rule out. SIDEWALKOFBROADWA Y (IRE) Shown promise to be third at Deauville over 1500m in a Condition on 8 August. Will know more this time and has to be considered.
RACE 3: PRIX DE LA FORTERELLE MAIDEN STAKES (2YO) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 3) – 1600M | TIME: 20:50 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 27400
ATIKA (FR) Nice second on debut at ParisLongchamp over 1600m in a Condition on 3 September. Can step forward from that and get off the mark. NABIRA (FR) Showed nice promise to be fourth at ParisLongchamp over 1600m on racecourse bow in a Condition on 3 September. One to pay attention to. LA THEBAIDE Good debut second at Chantilly in a Condition over 1500m on 18 September . Open to progress and cannot be ignored. PETITE VAGABONDE (FR) Pleasing third at Saint-Cloud on debut in a Condition over 1500m on 18 September. Can improve and warrants attention.
RACE 4: CRITERIUM DE MAISONS-LAFFITTE STAKES – GROUP 2 (2YO) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 4) – 1200M | TIME: 21:32 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 173800
SCYTHE (IRE) Good second in a Group 3 at Chantilly over 1200m on 19 September last time after a win on debut. Player. JOLIVETTE Ran well to be second at Newbury in a Group 2 over 1200m when narrowly beaten on 19 September. Can make presence felt. ACCLAMATION STAR Nice win in a Group 3 over 1200m at Salisbury on latest start on 3 September. Improving and can make an impact. AL HAMAAD (FR) Successful in a Maiden at Saint-Cloud over 1200m on 18 September on second start. Up in class and warrants respect.
RACE 5: PRIX DE COYE STAKES (4YO+) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 5) – 1400M | TIME: 22:07 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 34800
TOMAKAY (FR) Credible fourth in a Class 1 Condition over 1400m at Deauville on 22 August. Strong winning chance. ZOOM (FR) Pleasing fifth in a Class 1 Condition over 1400m at Deauville on 22 August. Each-way chance. FERRARI FEVER (FR) A winner in a Class 2 Condition over 1600m at Chantilly on 14 September. Has the ability to follow up. SAIDI ELFAL (FR) Consecutive second in a Class 2 Condition over 1600m at Chantilly on 14 September. Place chance.
RACE 6: PRIX DE L’ABBAYE DE CHALIS HANDICAP (HCP) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 6) – 1200M | TIME: 22:42 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 22100
VATANEZ (FR) Hearty sixth in a Maiden over 1600m at Craon on 5 September. Will be eager to shed maiden. DALMORA (FR) Better effort into third in a Maiden over 1400m at Strasbourg on 13 September. Each-way chance. AIRLIE BEACH (FR) A winner in a Maiden over 1300m at Craon on 28 September. Confidence should be up and can give a good account. ADHARA (FR) Decent fourth in a Maiden over 1600m at Amiens on 27 September. Place chance in this field.
RACE 7: PRIX LE FABULEUX LISTED STAKES (3YO) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 7) – 1800M | TIME: 23:17 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 50300
REGAL RESOLVE Consecutive second in a Listed over 1800m at Borde aux Le Bouscat on 23 May. Returns after a break but has a strong winning chance. SEGALL (IRE) Furnished into third in a Group 3 over 1600m at Deauville on 9 August. Good each-way chance. BASHA (FR) Positive second in a Listed over 2000m at Deauville on 16 August. Will be flying at them. BALZAC (GER) A firm winner in a Handicap over 2000m at Newbury on 19 September. First run on French soil and can be lethal.
RACE 8: PRIX DE LA COLLERAIE HANDICAP (HCP) (FROM CHANTILLY RACE 8) – 1800M | TIME: 23:52 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 24000
NOCE DE RUBIS (FR) Cruised into second in a Class 2 Handicap over 1800m at Clairefontaine on 3 August. Strong winning chance. MARQUES (FR) Positive second in a Class 3 Handicap over 1800m at Chantilly on 4 September. Winning chance. ROMANCE MARINE (FR) Pleasant third in a Class 3 Handicap over 1600m at Chantilly on 23 September. Place chance. UTXA (IRE) A firm winner in a Class 3 Condition over 1800m at Compiegne on 15 September. Can follow up.
South Africa Express Form & Race Previews (Turffontein) – October 10
Download your South Africa racing information for FREE now:
RACE BY RACE PREVIEWS: TURFFONTEIN INSIDE@2026.10.10
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 1, Gallops, 1450m, Turf, R115.000, 12:05GMT+2
Race Summary: SKITT SMILING confirmed the promise of his debut with close-up finishes in subsequent outings and won’t need to improve much to open his account. BLUNDERBORE would have benefitted from the experience of his 1200m debut 3rd so should have a role to play with natural improvement expected over this extended trip. JAVELIN WARRIOR fits a similar profile after an eye-catching debut 2nd but he does resume after a lengthy layoff so may need the outing. INCLUSION and STORMACT have the form and experience to make their presence felt too.
Selections: #4 Skitt Smiling, #7 Blunderbore, #2 Javelin Warrior, #3 Stormact
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 2, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R110.000, 12:40GMT+2
Race Summary: ALITTLEBITOFLOVE and CHAMPAGNE AIR have improved after moderate introductions so could fight out the finish if making further progress. The former was 3rd over 1600m last time and that experience over this distance stands her in good stead. KNOCKIN’ BOOTS is held on that form but has the means to play a role in the outcome. FOREST ACT is better than her last start suggests and could get into the picture if bouncing back to earlier form. FIRST WHISPER (gin strike!) and PANDORA FORT are open to any amount of improvement after satisfactory introductory outings.
Selections: #1 Alittlebitoflove, #2 Champagne Air, #3 Knockin’ Boots, #4 Forest Act
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 3, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R115.000, 13:15GMT+2
Race Summary: GREAT RIFT VALLEY was a beaten short-priced favourite on debut as a 2yo and that form has worked out well. He could reward followers on his reappearance after a subsequent rest and gelding, and with that experience to count on. BRIEF ENCOUNTER, GREEN FAIRWAY and SECRET GETAWAY are also open to improvement after encouraging introductory efforts. MIDNIGHT SHOW and Highveld newcomer WHATWILLBEWILLBE have shown enough to make their presence felt too.
Selections: #6 Great Rift Valley, #7 Green Fairway, #2 Midnight Show, #9 Secret Getaway
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 4, Gallops, 2200m, Turf, R150.000, 13:50GMT+2
Race Summary: HAZY DAZY gave the 3yo winner 9.5kg when 2nd in a 1450m Grade 2 on her seasonal reappearance last week so will be hard to beat with improved fitness on her side, provided this run doesn’t come too soon. INTO DANCING, SCARLET O’HARA and FRANGIPANI are consistent performers at a slightly lower level but could pose a threat in receipt of weight from the selection. Hat-trick seeking UTSAAH is a maturing stayer with more of a place chance than a winning one in this grade.
Selections: #1 Hazy Dazy, #3 Into Dancing, #4 Scarlet O’Hara, #5 Frangipani
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 5, Gallops, 1200m, Turf, R110.000, 14:25GMT+2
Race Summary: TROMBOLINES was 2nd at this level over track and trip last time with blinkers fitted so should play a leading role off an unchanged mark with the headgear retained. However, riding arrangements would suggest that stablemate YIPPEE KIYAY is the stable elect. The latter is unbeaten in two starts over this distance and open to improvement on his seasonal reappearance. Fillies GOOD DAY SUNSHINE and GRISELDA finished unplaced in a 2yo Grade 2 at the end of last season but are open to improvement, as is returning GIMME A VODKA on his reappearance after a rest and gelding.
Selections: #2 Yippee Kiyay, #4 Gimme A Vodka, #1 Trombolines, #7 Griselda
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 6, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R150.000, 15:00GMT+2
Race Summary: RULE BY FORCE hasn’t been seen since finishing 3rd in the 2024 Grade 1 Summer Cup. He is classy but will need the outing. Grade 1 SA Classic winner GRAND EMPIRE has bigger fish to fry this season and is drawn wide on his reappearance but should make his presence felt. Versatile ALADDIN’S LAMP fits a similar profile. CALLA LAGOON was an authoritative winner at this level over 1450m last month and a 3-point penalty may not be enough to prevent him from following up, though KING HARALD and RADIO STAR are weighted to pose more of a threat.
Selections: #7 Calla Lagoon, #8 King Harald, #3 Grand Empire, #11 Radio Star
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 7, Gallops, 1450m, Turf, R120.000, 15:35GMT+2
Race Summary: WALKINGINTHEWOODS could hardly have been more impressive when justifying market support with a wide-margin debut victory over 1200m. He would have benefitted from that experience and could be even better over this extended trip, so it could pay to follow his progress. Last-start winner SUNSET WARRIOR remains competitive under a penalty, as do NEVER NEVER LAND and PROTECTOR OF PEACE over this distance after their encouraging 1200m comebacks. WINSTON’S WONDER and veteran AFTER HOURS also have the form and experience at this level to get involved.
Selections: #5 Walkinginthewoods, #6 Sunset Warrior, #1 Never Never Land, #3 Winston’s Wonder
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 8, Gallops, 1800m, Turf, R120.000, 16:15GMT+2
Race Summary: CULTURATI and DARK SILVER are closely matched on the form of their 2000m meeting on 1 August so there shouldn’t be much separating them, although the former is weighted to confirm his superiority on these revised terms. IDEAL SUMMER and LONE HORIZON could be more competitive off reduced marks but a bigger threat will likely come from improving last-start maiden winners ONE EYE ON DUBAI and RAFE’S ORACLE. Both 3yo colts are progressive so could be leniently treated on handicap debut off their opening marks.
Selections: #1 Culturati, #2 Dark Silver, #8 One Eye On Dubai, #9 Rafe’s Oracle
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 9, Gallops, 1800m, Turf, R100.000, 16:50GMT+2
Race Summary: KNOWMORE was a staying-on 2nd at a higher level over 1600m on this course last time, so a repeat of that effort off a 3-point higher mark could suffice. NARETOI (2nd), STEEL SPRING (3rd) and GUERILLA WARFARE (4th) clashed recently in a course-and-distance contest and should be competitive if running to that form again. SNOW MOON, ROCK MY BOAT and EIFFEL TOWER also have earning potential.
Selections: #4 Knowmore, #11 Naretoi, #3 Guerilla Warfare, #10 Steel Spring
Best Win: #5 WALKINGINTHEWOODS
Best Value Bet: #2 YIPPEE KIYAY
Best Longshot: #2 YIPPEE KIYAY
RACE BY RACE PREVIEWS: TURFFONTEIN INSIDE@2026.10.10
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 1, Gallops, 1450m, Turf, R115.000, 12:05GMT+2
Race Summary: SKITT SMILING confirmed the promise of his debut with close-up finishes in subsequent outings and won’t need to improve much to open his account. BLUNDERBORE would have benefitted from the experience of his 1200m debut 3rd so should have a role to play with natural improvement expected over this extended trip. JAVELIN WARRIOR fits a similar profile after an eye-catching debut 2nd but he does resume after a lengthy layoff so may need the outing. INCLUSION and STORMACT have the form and experience to make their presence felt too.
Selections: #4 Skitt Smiling, #7 Blunderbore, #2 Javelin Warrior, #3 Stormact
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 2, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R110.000, 12:40GMT+2
Race Summary: ALITTLEBITOFLOVE and CHAMPAGNE AIR have improved after moderate introductions so could fight out the finish if making further progress. The former was 3rd over 1600m last time and that experience over this distance stands her in good stead. KNOCKIN’ BOOTS is held on that form but has the means to play a role in the outcome. FOREST ACT is better than her last start suggests and could get into the picture if bouncing back to earlier form. FIRST WHISPER (gin strike!) and PANDORA FORT are open to any amount of improvement after satisfactory introductory outings.
Selections: #1 Alittlebitoflove, #2 Champagne Air, #3 Knockin’ Boots, #4 Forest Act
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 3, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R115.000, 13:15GMT+2
Race Summary: GREAT RIFT VALLEY was a beaten short-priced favourite on debut as a 2yo and that form has worked out well. He could reward followers on his reappearance after a subsequent rest and gelding, and with that experience to count on. BRIEF ENCOUNTER, GREEN FAIRWAY and SECRET GETAWAY are also open to improvement after encouraging introductory efforts. MIDNIGHT SHOW and Highveld newcomer WHATWILLBEWILLBE have shown enough to make their presence felt too.
Selections: #6 Great Rift Valley, #7 Green Fairway, #2 Midnight Show, #9 Secret Getaway
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 4, Gallops, 2200m, Turf, R150.000, 13:50GMT+2
Race Summary: HAZY DAZY gave the 3yo winner 9.5kg when 2nd in a 1450m Grade 2 on her seasonal reappearance last week so will be hard to beat with improved fitness on her side, provided this run doesn’t come too soon. INTO DANCING, SCARLET O’HARA and FRANGIPANI are consistent performers at a slightly lower level but could pose a threat in receipt of weight from the selection. Hat-trick seeking UTSAAH is a maturing stayer with more of a place chance than a winning one in this grade.
Selections: #1 Hazy Dazy, #3 Into Dancing, #4 Scarlet O’Hara, #5 Frangipani
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 5, Gallops, 1200m, Turf, R110.000, 14:25GMT+2
Race Summary: TROMBOLINES was 2nd at this level over track and trip last time with blinkers fitted so should play a leading role off an unchanged mark with the headgear retained. However, riding arrangements would suggest that stablemate YIPPEE KIYAY is the stable elect. The latter is unbeaten in two starts over this distance and open to improvement on his seasonal reappearance. Fillies GOOD DAY SUNSHINE and GRISELDA finished unplaced in a 2yo Grade 2 at the end of last season but are open to improvement, as is returning GIMME A VODKA on his reappearance after a rest and gelding.
Selections: #2 Yippee Kiyay, #4 Gimme A Vodka, #1 Trombolines, #7 Griselda
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 6, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R150.000, 15:00GMT+2
Race Summary: RULE BY FORCE hasn’t been seen since finishing 3rd in the 2024 Grade 1 Summer Cup. He is classy but will need the outing. Grade 1 SA Classic winner GRAND EMPIRE has bigger fish to fry this season and is drawn wide on his reappearance but should make his presence felt. Versatile ALADDIN’S LAMP fits a similar profile. CALLA LAGOON was an authoritative winner at this level over 1450m last month and a 3-point penalty may not be enough to prevent him from following up, though KING HARALD and RADIO STAR are weighted to pose more of a threat.
Selections: #7 Calla Lagoon, #8 King Harald, #3 Grand Empire, #11 Radio Star
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 7, Gallops, 1450m, Turf, R120.000, 15:35GMT+2
Race Summary: WALKINGINTHEWOODS could hardly have been more impressive when justifying market support with a wide-margin debut victory over 1200m. He would have benefitted from that experience and could be even better over this extended trip, so it could pay to follow his progress. Last-start winner SUNSET WARRIOR remains competitive under a penalty, as do NEVER NEVER LAND and PROTECTOR OF PEACE over this distance after their encouraging 1200m comebacks. WINSTON’S WONDER and veteran AFTER HOURS also have the form and experience at this level to get involved.
Selections: #5 Walkinginthewoods, #6 Sunset Warrior, #1 Never Never Land, #3 Winston’s Wonder
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 8, Gallops, 1800m, Turf, R120.000, 16:15GMT+2
Race Summary: CULTURATI and DARK SILVER are closely matched on the form of their 2000m meeting on 1 August so there shouldn’t be much separating them, although the former is weighted to confirm his superiority on these revised terms. IDEAL SUMMER and LONE HORIZON could be more competitive off reduced marks but a bigger threat will likely come from improving last-start maiden winners ONE EYE ON DUBAI and RAFE’S ORACLE. Both 3yo colts are progressive so could be leniently treated on handicap debut off their opening marks.
Selections: #1 Culturati, #2 Dark Silver, #8 One Eye On Dubai, #9 Rafe’s Oracle
Turffontein Inside, 10.10.2026, Race 9, Gallops, 1800m, Turf, R100.000, 16:50GMT+2
Race Summary: KNOWMORE was a staying-on 2nd at a higher level over 1600m on this course last time, so a repeat of that effort off a 3-point higher mark could suffice. NARETOI (2nd), STEEL SPRING (3rd) and GUERILLA WARFARE (4th) clashed recently in a course-and-distance contest and should be competitive if running to that form again. SNOW MOON, ROCK MY BOAT and EIFFEL TOWER also have earning potential.
Selections: #4 Knowmore, #11 Naretoi, #3 Guerilla Warfare, #10 Steel Spring
Best Win: #5 WALKINGINTHEWOODS
Best Value Bet: #2 YIPPEE KIYAY
Best Longshot: #2 YIPPEE KIYAY
Australia – Sunday 11 October
Download your Australia express forms and form guides for FREE here:
| Cairns | |
|
 |
Australia – Saturday 10 October
Download your Australia express forms and form guides for FREE here:
| Ascot | |
|
|
| Caulfield | |
|
|
| Eagle Farm | |
|
|
| Rosehill | |
|
|
Australia – Sunday 4 October
Download your Australia express forms and form guides for FREE here:
| Townsville | |
|
|
