Punters face a tricky start to Wednesday’s meeting at Hollywoodbets Scottsville Racecourse, with the opening two races featuring several debutants. Serious bettors may prefer to tread carefully early on.

A stronger betting opportunity could come in the first leg of the PA where Randolph Hearst makes his local debut. The Justin Snaith-trained runner has been competing against some of the best three-year-olds in Cape Town and has not been far behind. Dropping into this company gives him a strong chance to make an immediate impact.

Dominic Zaki’s Talk To The Master arrives in good form after a win in the Fever Tree Stakes but faces a tougher task conceding 6kg to his younger rival.

In the first leg of the Pick 6, Highveld Storm showed promise on local debut in first-time blinkers and should improve further. War Emperor has been progressing steadily and ran a close second last time out, while Good Omen has finished runner-up over course and distance in his last two starts and now benefits from a 4kg claim. Frostbite could be the pick of the Frikkie Greyling pair after a modest debut.

The fifth is a difficult handicap with several runners trying 2400m for the first time. Can We Start has scope to improve over the trip, while Fire Force is the only runner proven at the distance and arrives off a solid second.

Ladyofdistinction has shown class since returning from a break with two convincing wins and should again be competitive in race six. One Smart Cookie steps up in trip with consistent sprint form and looks a major threat.

Maphaka should bounce back after a disappointing polytrack effort and faces easier opposition, while Tam’s Knight and consistent Cowboy Country can also feature.

The finale is wide open, though veteran Sun Dazed could benefit from the drop in trip and the addition of blinkers. Intrepid, Trippi’s Silk and Definitely Yes all hold chances.

Among the early races, Flamethrower and Quest Of Valor showed promise on debut, while well-bred newcomer One Pepper is worth monitoring in the betting.

SEAN TARRY SPARKLES ON DAY 2 OF THE CHAMPIONSHIPS Johannesburg, South Africa — Despite soaking rain during the week, Classic Day dawned bright and sunny over Turffontein with a penetrometer reading of 25 and the track condition Good To Soft. Sean Tarry reminded everyone why he is a force to be reckoned with, taking four features on the day, namely the WILGERBOSDRIFT RUFFIAN STAKES (Listed), WILGERBOSDRIFT ACACIA STAKES (Listed), HKJC WORLD POOL SA CLASSIC (Grade 1) and WILGERBOSDRIFT H F OPPENHEIMER HORSE CHESTNUT STAKES (Grade 1). The day’s card kicked off promptly at 11:30 with the opener, the 1160m 4RACING WELCOMES YOU MAIDEN PLATE (F and M), going the way of Wilgerbosdrift & Mauritzfontein’s 3yo filly Detailed Forecast (Gimmethegreenlight – World Radar), trained by Mike & Mathew de Kock and ridden by Callan Murray. The first feature of the day, the TAB STORM BIRD STAKES (Listed), went the way of ASSM Racing Syndicate (Nom: Mr A Chadha), Messrs M F de Kock, T Gujadhur, G Ragunan, Mrs N P Malherbe & Wernars Family’s World Attraction (One World – Major Attraction). Bred by Messrs E A Braun, Neville Cooper & W D Mealing, trained by the Mike & Mathew de Kock team and steered to a 1.7 length victory by Callan Murray, she covered the 1000m in a time of 58.39. Then it was the turn of the Triple Tiara contenders in the WILGERBOSDRIFT SA FILLIES CLASSIC (Grade 1). All eyes were on Gauteng Fillies Guineas winner Hazy Dazy (Act Of War – Rabbedoe)and the grandstand erupted as she dug deep to keep her head in front in the closing stages. She covered the 1800m in a time of 114.17, securing victory by 1 length to stamp her credentials as a serious Triple Tiara contender and deliver a first Gr1 win for apprentice Trent Mayhew. Bred by the Breedon Stud Close Corporation and trained by Corne Spies in the interests of Mr D Dasrath & Mrs C Dasrath, Messrs R P Macnab, S Poriazis, Vikash Sobaren, X Spies & D Vayapuri, the bargain basement R37,500 purchase now has 6 wins and a place from 8 career starts. Full Result: Race-6 R 1,250,000 1800m 14:25 WILGERBOSDRIFT SA FILLIES CLASSIC (Grade 1) 3yof (2nd Leg Wilgerbosdrift SA Triple Tiara) Stake Breakdown Total Stakes: R 1250000.00 1st: R 742187.50, 2nd: R 237500.00, 3rd: R 118750.00, 4th: R 59375.00, 5th: R 29687.50. HKJC WORLD POOL SA CLASSIC (Grade 1) The HKJC World Pool SA Classic saw the result go right down the wire with the narrowest of margins separating the first two, but the result went the way of Mrs H Kuhn’s Grand Empire (Vercingetorix – Palace Of Dreams). Trained by Sean Tarry and benefitting from a shrewdly timed ride by Craig Zackey, he stopped the clock in 112.61. Tarry sportingly acknowledged Cape colleague Eric Sands in the post-race interview, saying Sands had originally selected the horse and trained him early on, but didn’t get to race him and said that’s the really tough side of racing, but thanked the Kuhns for their confidence and support. Bred by Al Adiyaat (Sheik Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Maktoum), Grand Empire now has 4 wins and 2 places from 6 career starts. Full Result: Race-7 R 1,500,000 1800m 15:00 HKJC WORLD POOL SA CLASSIC (Grade 1) For 3 year-olds (2nd Leg of SA Triple Crown) Stake Breakdown Total Stakes: R 1500000.00 1st: R 890625.00, 2nd: R 285000.00, 3rd: R 142500.00, 4th: R 71250.00, 5th: R 35625.00. WILGERBOSDRIFT H F OPPENHEIMER HORSE CHESTNUT STAKES (Grade 1) Tarry was back on the podium half an hour later to accept his second Gr1 trophy for the day in the 2026 Wilgerbosdrift H F Oppenheimer Stakes. The Wernars Family & D Chinsammy’s Tin Pan Alley (The United States – The Entertainer), was bred by Moutonshoek and put up a sensational performance under Keagan de Melo to register victory by 3.75 lengths in a time of 98.86. Full Result: Race-8 R 1,500,000 1600m 15:35 WILGERBOSDRIFT H F OPPENHEIMER HORSE CHESTNUT STAKES (Grade 1) For all Horses at Weight for Age Stake Breakdown Total Stakes: R 1500000.00 1st: R 890625.00, 2nd: R 285000.00, 3rd: R 142500.00, 4th: R 71250.00, 5th: R 35625.00 TAB J J THE JET PLANE STAKES (Grade 3) There was no living with Messrs R P Macnab, Keegan Govender, X Spies & Corne Spies Racing (Pty) Ltd, Waste Glass Recovery (Pty) Ltd (Nom: J H de Lange)’s 7yo William Robertson (Rafeef – Massachusetts) in the TAB J J The Jet Plane Stakes. Bred by Ridgemont Highlands, the Corne Spies charge was registering his 17th career win – and his second TAB J J The Jet Plane Stakes title – under Ryan Munger. Despite his 62kg impost, he covered the 1000m in 57.04 easing down. ENDS.

A tricky card and it might pay to look for some value, so with that in mind Galileo Star in Race 5, a MR 82 Handicap over 1000m on the Fairview Polytrack on Tuesday, makes plenty of appeal. This three-year-old is clearly better than his last run on the turf and he has won two of his six starts. His record on the Polytrack shows a win and a runner-up from just two outings. The United States gelding had looked progressive when winning his penultimate start, which was over this course and distance. Jockey Louie Mxothwa has stuck with him. He will not have it easy, though, as his stablemate and likely favourite, Chocolate Bomb, has won his last three starts, all over this particular track and trip, and all under jockey Stallone Naidoo. Stable companion Supreme Judge might well be worth an each-way strike in Race 6, a MR 68 Handicap over 1600m. The Horizon gelding had excuses in his latest start on the turf and is better judged on his form on this surface. He did win over this course and distance in November for Craig Zackey, who retains the ride. Those are both trained by Dean Smith, but one also needs to look at some runners from the yard of Alan Greeff. Green Isle and Amanatto could fit that bill. Green Isle, who lines up in Race 7, a MR 82 Handicap over 1900m, showed she is quite capable of winning again off her current merit rating when runner-up behind stable companion First Wish over the Fairview Polytrack 2000m. It is best to ignore her last run on the turf and her jockey, Richard Fourie, knows how to get the best out of her. Amanatto took 15 starts to get out of the maiden ranks but was unlucky not to follow up, as she was caught on the post last time out. That was on the turf, but she is just as comfortable on this surface and Fourie might try start-to-finish tactics from a wide draw in Race 3, a MR 70 Handicap for fillies and mares over 1200m. Clive Robinson

Video Stars Race 2 – 10 FIGHT TIME From an awkward draw last start, he was urged early to settle just off the pace before sticking on fairly well to finish sixth over this distance in Class 4, beaten only half a length by the winner. Boasting an impressive record of one win and two seconds from three starts in Class 5, he should relish the drop in grade and be right in the mix. Race 4 – 4 NATURAL HIGH Although he failed to place first-up, the run was a pass mark given the circumstances. Caught wide throughout in a strongly run race, he was beaten just 2.75 lengths into seventh over this course and distance. Stripping fitter second-up, he is expected to improve and could feature in the finish with better luck in running. Sectional Stars Race 8 – 3 MASTEROFMYUNIVERSE He was forced to settle off the pace from an awkward draw last start before finishing off strongly to run seventh over this distance, recording the third-fastest final 400m of 21.75 seconds. Having caught the eye when running on well in a recent trial, he could make his presence felt under a more favourable race shape. Race 11 – 8 SUNNY DA BEST It pays to overlook his last start, as the slow tempo placed those settling off the pace at a significant disadvantage. Instead, focus on his eye-catching effort the run prior, when he let down sharply to finish third over this distance. Against more fancied rivals this week, he could represent good value.

By Nick Tedeschi The $4 million dollar NZB Kiwi is set to run for the second time and with the final field set here are the chances of the 14 runners and four emergencies.

1. Romanoff ($81) Handy Belardo gelding who won the 2000 Guineas last year but that came on heavy going and a career using racing plates is not a positive indicator that he will handle the likely good going. Not sure has come back from a let-up super well either. Pass.
2. To Bravery Born ($81) The Walker-Bergerson tandem have four and possibly five runners in The NZB Kiwi and this Snitzel-bred gelding looks the least likely. Has just a single placing from six starts in black type company.
3. Well Written ($1.20) Stephen Marsh has a superstar on his hands with this unbeaten Written Tycoon filly that has swept all before her. Her 6L win in the Karaka Millions 3yo was utterly breathtaking. Won the 1000 Guineas in equally dominant fashion. Drawn perfectly. Hard to see them getting close to her.
4. Affirmative Action ($23) Pam Gerard gelding who was very poor in the Karaka 3yo. There were excuses when she was eased up after a torrid run and was found to be ill. Went on a course of antibiotics. Not an ideal preparation for a race of this quality. Big no.
5. La Dorada ($14) A nation will be roaring if The People’s Horse looks any kind of hope in the straight. She was fantastic winning the Group 2 Levin Classic two starts back before placing in the Karaka 3yo. She has a fantastic record and a nice draw. She has plenty of class and is a must for exotics.
6. Asakura ($18) There is little Australia would enjoy more than winning the NZB Kiwi and this is the best and only hope for our Trans-Tasman rivals. Mitchell Freedman trains and Dean Yendall comes across for the ride and he is a live runner. He was fantastic in the CS Hayes last start and the stable are not over for a haircut. Top blowout hope.
7. Zivou ($81) Few trainers prepare them better for big races than Roger James but this gelding seems up against it. He had excuses last start when posted three wide without cover and prior was a dominant winner but doesn’t have the upside to steal this, even drawing the rail.
8. He Who Dares ($23) Only one horse has beaten this colt the last two starts and that galloper is Well Written but this Te Akau colt looks unlikely to turn the tables. Opie Bosson sticks but drawn wide and there have been no excuses the last two starts.
9. Panther ($23) Exciting Ace High gelding who has finished in the quinella in all four career starts. Stepped up to black type company with aplomb when beaten only a long neck by Belle Cheval last start. Love his draw and fancy he will be right in the battle for second.
10. L’Aigle Noir ($61) Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott have taken this spry type along slowly. He only won his maiden in November and has been well beaten by Belle Cheval in each of his last two. Hard to see him having the scope for improvement.
11. Belle Cheval ($10) Exciting Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson filly who deserves second favouritism behind Well Written. She is airborne with a 1.24L win at Group 3 level before beating a good portion of this field at Group 3 level here at Ellerslie last start. No spoil the price but have to include in multiples.
12. War Princess ($81) The daughter of Navy Flag has built an impressive resume with five wins from 10 starts including a win at Group 3 level two starts back. She handles all going and stuck on nicely after pinging from the barriers. She won’t be turning the tables on the favourite but can run into a place at odds.
13. Lollapalooza ($41) Handy filly who the market has underrated here. She may not be up to Well Written but she can certainly run a race. Her only win came in Group 3 company last September. She was desperately unlucky two starts back when clipping heels and overracing but still finishing second before having to get too far back last start. Value each-way proposition.
14. Convinced ($126) Super Seth filly who looks out of her depth in The NZB Kiwi. She won on debut in maiden grade but stepping up to Group 3 company was well beaten by five more running in this including Belle Cheval. Not up to it.
15. Tomahawk ($151) First emergency. Disappointed in benchmark 65 grade last start when in the market but well beaten. Looks to be too much against this gelding.
16. Bolli Belle ($81) Second emergency. Te Akau filly who has won both her career starts. Cruised to a comfortable win last start at Matamata. This is a huge step up in grade but will be included in exotics if she gets a run.
17. Burnerphone ($151) Third emergency. Benjamin King filly started to show something when out to a mile. If she gets a run though she will be back in journey and that won’t help. Unlikely to get a run.
18. Laura’s Legacy ($201) Fourth emergency. This Ocean Park filly’s only win came in maiden grade and comes off a well-beaten 10th when not in the market last start. One for connections only.

By Nick Tedeschi

The New Zealand Derby traces its roots back to 1860 with icons such as Bonecrusher, Gloaming, Nightmarch and Kindergarten winning the race. Another champion will etch their name into equine immortality on Saturday.

1. That’s Gold Chris Wood gelding who has been in scintillating form winning the Group 2 Avondale Guineas when sitting wide and kicking clear, running the fastest last 200m. Has a super record on top of the ground and the trip won’t prove a problem. Clear top selection.
2. Aksil Alexander visitor who was less than impressive at first run beyond a mile when sixth in the Avondale Guineas. Struggled over the last 400m with ordinary sectionals and unlikely to appreciate the further step up in distance.
3. Road To Paris Roger James has won the Derby six times and has three runners here led by up-and-comer Road To Paris. Ran the second fastest last 600m when second in the Avondale Guineas. Will be right in the finish but awkward draw the concern.
4. Towering Vision Failed to beat a runner home in the Avondale Guineas when nearly 12L off the winner. Raced well prior when getting out to a mile and beyond. Will take some forgiveness for his last shocker but far from the worst.
5. Geneva Son of Time Test who has been tried at black type level five times and has yet to run a place. Concussion plates suggest bad feet and has yet to place on good going if the track gets to that. Too much against.
6. Yamato Satona Colt who certainly has the credentials to win with a well-heeled ownership group and Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott training as they chase their third Derby in the last six years. He has been racing well with a third in the Waikato Guineas but likely needs it wetter.
7. Magic Carpet Stephen Marsh galloper who hasn’t fired as shot since winning the Group 2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas last September. Not gone close in two runs beyond a mile. Hard to make a case for.
8. Tulsa King Placed in the Gingernuts two runs back when overshooting SP after running second quickest final 400m. Did enough in the Wairoa Cup against the older horses when running fifth, running the fastest last 400m. Likely over the odds.
9. Genki Maiden with just a single placing in six starts. That was in the Avondale Guineas though when placing at big odds. Clearly an out-and-out stayer but has not shown enough to be considered.
10. Sweet Ice Honest type who looks out of his depth in the Derby. Finished midfield in the Karaka 3yo and ran well in the Waikato Guineas. Well beaten in the Avondale Guineas though and wide draw a worry.
11. Halo’s Fire Mark Forbes gelding who stuck on nicely when midfield in the Avondale Guineas. Sectionals weren’t great though and failed to win in benchmark 65 grade the start prior. No thanks.
12. Lunaman Debuted in January with a maiden win and has progressed nicely to this with a best effort coming in the Waikato Guineas when fifth. Ran the fastest 800, 600 and 400 in the Avondale Guineas off a slow tempo. Absolutely including in exotics.
13. Wigmore Long odds and deservedly so. Comprehensively beaten in restricted grade last start and no excuses when beaten at Waverley two starts back when well in the market.
14. Taylor Square One of the more experienced runners but still just the one win to his name. Just been running midfield of late. Unlikely to challenge.
15. Autumn Glory Exciting filly who won the Waikato Guineas before no luck in the New Zealand Oaks when held up at a critical time. Was no match the winner but ran some very sharp sectionals. Looking to do an Orchestral.
16. Ariadne Filly who ran fourth in the New Zealand Oaks. Hard to make a case she stands a better hope than fellow filly Autumn Glory. Racing well but others seem to have her measure.

Selections： 1 That’s Gold 8 Tulsa King 15 Autumn Glory 12 Lunaman

In celebration of International Women’s Day, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable women making their mark in horse racing. In this feature interview, jockey Alysha Collett shares insights into her journey in the saddle, and the passion that drives her career.

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You’ve built a reputation as one of Sydney’s most consistent riders. When you look back, what moment made you realize you truly belonged at the top level of racing? Nothing in particular stands out, but I’m proud of the progress I’ve made over the past few seasons. Racing can be an unforgiving industry. What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way, and how have those experiences shaped you as both a jockey and a person? Injuries mainly but there are daily challenges that shape you as a jockey. Trying to control the things you can is important and not worry about stuff that’s out of your hands. You’re often praised for your professionalism and work ethic. What does a “normal” day look like for you when you’re not in the middle of a big race week? A normal day off depends on how I’m feeling or what I’ve pre-planned. I love to stay busy. Some days I’ll do a gym session and concentrate on recovery. Other days I’ll hang out with friends or family. Confidence is crucial in the saddle. How do you manage pressure and expectations, especially when the spotlight is on during major meetings? I treat every race day the same. If it’s a maiden at Canberra or a group one at Randwick, I will always try my best. Confidence is key, I get mine from doing form and knowing the horse so I can make the right decisions during a race. Outside of racing, what helps you switch off mentally? Are there hobbies or interests that keep you grounded away from the track? Hanging out with friends and family. I’m lucky I can switch off quickly. International Women’s Day is about recognizing progress and inspiring change. As a female jockey, do you feel the landscape has shifted in recent years, and where do you still see room for improvement? I’m fortunate to have started riding when woman jockeys were accepted. There’s a greater amount of female apprentice jockeys at present. We have equal opportunity to succeed. You’ve ridden alongside and against some of the best in the sport. Who has had the biggest influence on your career, and what lessons have stayed with you? My brother Jason, we are always supporting each other and giving constructive feedback. Racing demands incredible physical and mental discipline. How do you maintain balance in your personal life while staying at peak performance professionally? I’m a big advocate for staying fit and healthy. I like going to the Physio, gym or Pilates. If my body needs more recovery, I’ll do a sauna or ice bath. It’s listening to whatever my body needs to feel my best. For young girls watching you ride and dreaming of a career in racing, what advice would you give them about breaking into such a competitive industry?  To just keep showing up and always trying to improve a little bit every day. Get the right advice from people that have succeeded before you. When your riding career eventually slows down, how would you like to be remembered within the sport, and what ambitions do you have beyond racing? Hopefully being remembered for my persistence and always having a crack. I would love to stay in the industry, whatever that may look like.  

Consistent galloper SUPER EXPRESS looks well placed to secure his third career victory when he returns to Sha Tin for Sunday’s Class 3 Handicap over 1400m. He has been the model of consistency, finishing in the placings at all seven starts to date, with two wins and five runner-up efforts. After a solid first-up performance in mid-January, the son of Ten Sovereigns broke through with a convincing win in this grade. Last time out, he was inconvenienced by a slowly run race but still finished strongly to go down by just half a length over this course and distance. Clearly the benchmark runner in this line-up, SUPER EXPRESS shapes as the leading contender as he remains in Class 3. The main threat appears to be WINNING OVATION, who resumes from an injury-enforced break after an easy win in this grade. Quality sprinter MAGNIFIQUE is primed to secure his fifth career win in the Class 3 Handicap over 1200m on the All-Weather track at Sha Tin this Sunday. Boasting an impressive record of four wins from six starts, MAGNIFIQUE won first-up this preparation to extend his winning run to two before finishing a luckless third over this track and distance last time out. The Charm Spirit gelding travelled wide throughout from an awkward draw but still stuck on gamely to finish just one length from the winner. The strong early tempo also added further merit to the performance. Despite meeting a competitive field this week, MAGNIFIQUE should enjoy a favourable run from an ideal draw and can prove hard to run down under jockey James Orman.

With a tally of 15 winners striking at 17% for the 2026 season so far, the Banker’s Stable once again will be represented with some genuine winning chances on the twelve-race program at the Selangor Turf Club on Sunday. Arguably the best performed galloper from their numerous contingent is BANKER’S TWO SIX, a progressive type on the rise locally with 3 wins from 6 Malaysian starts and is on target of striking the hat trick in the 1800m Johor Recreational Park Taman Merdeka Stakes (Race 9). The five-year-old former Australian came under notice when nearly causing an upset in the 2000m G1 Piala Emas Sultan Selangor, finishing a neck second at his fourth run in the country. Since then he has improved further with successive wins by margins of 8.25L and 4.75L respectively over the mile, including his latest victory in the Listed CNY Prosperity Trophy on February 18 defeating BIG HEARTED. Under the handicapping conditions after the apprentice claim, BANKER’S TWO SIX appears ideally placed to continue his rise through the grades. IRISH GOODBYE is building a handy record locally with 4 wins from 7 starts and the gelding didn’t have much luck finishing unplaced in the CNY feature last start. The Brazilian bred four-year-old finished 9.25L behind BANKER’S TWO SIX on that occasion but should not be left out of calculations judging on previous form. The Nick Selvan-trained WRITTEN TOWIN is ready to break through to give punters a flying start in the 1275m Johor Kota Tinggi Firefly Park Stakes (Race 1). Having his fourth run back in the grade, the five-year-old will be on the quick backup following his 3rd over 1300m as a beaten favourite here last Saturday. The gelding is not blessed with early speed but his only Malaysian win was recorded over this distance back in August last year. JOYEE GO does possess the early pace to take up a forward position and is coming off a credible 4th at big odds in Class 4 company. His only previous appearance at Class 5 level yielded a win in May last year and looks a threat on the downgrade while GENRICH seldom wins but usually races on the pace and is definite trifecta chance. Promising four-year-old, TREES OF VALINOR makes his racetrack return in the 1020m Johor Pulai Hill Stakes (Race 6) for trainer Frank Maynard. The 3YO Selangor Mile Championship winner is first up since his excellent performance when finishing 5th in the RM 300,000 NZB Ready To Run Open Championship in October. The gelding is versatile with a quick turn of speed and despite resuming over the sprint journey, he has the class and ability to score first up. BANKER’S NATURAL looked impressive leading throughout over the track/distance on February 8 but goes up 3.5kg while BILLY ELLIOT should be primed third up this preparation. From the Selangor trials in recent weeks, one horse to watch first up is FORTUNE RISING, engaged in the 1200m Max Two Stakes (Race 8). The four-year-old arrives from Australia with 2 wins from 10 starts but has been contesting some high graded listed and group races on the Metropolitan circuit in New South Wales and Queensland. If he carries that form to Malaysia, it should prove to be a lucrative acquisition for the Richard Lim stable. However, he will clash with a couple of runners who posted impressive wins on their respective Malaysian debuts. NAVARRE proved dominant in a 1200m Open Maiden scoring by 4.75L while BANKER’S DREAM franked his good trial form with an all the way victory by 7L over 1150m. Overall it provides an enthralling clash between three relative newcomers on the local circuit capable of taking it to the next level. STRONG WIN, which won at big odds for the inform Ooi Chin Chin camp recently, cannot be left out either in what should turn out to be an interesting contest.

A Super Saturday Spectacle: Three Countries, Seven Group 1s, Endless Drama If you’re a racing fan, clear your schedule. This Saturday delivers one of the most compelling days of thoroughbred action anywhere in the world with three elite feature meetings across Australia and New Zealand, packed with champions, rising stars and career-defining moments. From Flemington’s famous straight, to Randwick’s championship mile, and across the Tasman to Ellerslie’s Champions Day, the sport’s biggest names collide in a global showcase of top-class thoroughbred action. Flemington: Sprinting Supremacy on the Line Australia has long prided itself on producing the fastest horses on earth. But that dominance was shaken last spring when Hong Kong superstar Ka Ying Rising stormed to victory in the 2025 Everest, leaving Australia’s sprint ranks looking suddenly vulnerable. Then came Tentyris. The three-year-old colt announced himself as a genuine sprinting force with an explosive Group 1 Lightning Stakes victory at Flemington last month, a performance that reignited belief in Australia’s next generation of speedsters. But now he faces his biggest challenge yet. The Group 1 Newmarket Handicap, a straight six showdown And the opposition is fierce. Waiting for him are:

• War Machine – the Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap winner, trained by Ben, Will & JD Hayes
• Caballus – the powerful Bjorn Baker sprinter with a booming finish
• Angel Capital – a dynamic runner from the Chris Waller yard
• Wodeton – the Coolmore-owned colt, with star jockey Wayne Lordan flown in

It’s a stacked field, and Tentyris will need to be every bit as good as the hype suggests to conquer it. But that’s only the beginning. It’s called Super Saturday for a reason. If the Newmarket doesn’t get the pulse racing, the $2 million Group 1 All-Star Mile certainly will. And front and centre is the electrifying front-running mare Pride Of Jenni. The four-time Group 1 winner is famous for her catch-me-if-you-can racing style, and at Flemington, where she’s produced some of her most breathtaking performances, expect her to roll forward and dare the field to chase. Trying to run her down will be an elite group of rivals:

• Stefi Magnetica – last year’s Doncaster Handicap champion, with Hugh Bowman flying in from Hong Kong to ride
• Treasurethe Moment – dual Oaks hero from last season
• Leica Lucy – last year’s New Zealand Oaks winner
• Tom Kitten – the defending All-Star Mile champion for powerhouse Godolphin
• Antino – Queensland’s reigning Horse of the Year
• Evaporate – a three-time Group 1 placegetter who finished runner-up in last year’s $4 million Kiwi

And that’s just the headline acts. The Flemington program also features:

• 2 Group 2 races
• 3 Group 3 races
• World Pool wagering across Races 8 and 9

Randwick: A Guineas Field with Global Quality Sydney also hosts a blockbuster meeting with Randwick Guineas Day, featuring two Group 1 races, also part of the World Pool. The Randwick Guineas has drawn a world-class three-year-old field. Among them is the lone filly Sheza Alibi, trained by Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman. Her first-up victory in the Group 2 Armanasco Stakes at Caulfield was full of power, and she now chases four wins in a row along with her first Group 1. But standing in her way is a formidable rival. Autumn Boy, from the powerhouse Chris Waller / James McDonald combination, already boasts Group 1 success this season in the Caulfield Guineas and arrives as one of the race’s leading contenders. The depth doesn’t stop there:

• Attica – winner of the Spring Champion Stakes
• Ninja – the fast-rising crowd favourite

It promises to be one of the most competitive Guineas fields of the season. If the Guineas wets the appetite, the Group 1 Canterbury Stakes will send it into overdrive. Champion jockey James McDonald again teams with Chris Waller aboard Joliestar, a mare with an exceptional Randwick profile already with 4 wins at the track to go with her unbeaten record at the distance and already being a Group 1 winner. Her rivals include:

• Lady Shenandoah
• Beiwacht, the Golden Rose champion potentially bound for the Dubai Al Quoz Sprint
• Gringotts
• And the cult hero Linebacker

Linebacker shot to fame last spring when he defeated Ka Ying Rising in a trial before delivering a dominant Silver Eagle victory on Everest Day. Ellerslie: Champions Day in New Zealand Think the excitement stops there? Not even close. Across the Tasman, Ellerslie hosts Champions Day, headlined by three Group 1 races and the $4 million Kiwi. The headline act could belong to Well Written, an unbeaten filly many believe could be New Zealand’s best horse. Prepared by Stephen Marsh and ridden by Matt Cartwright, the rising star faces her toughest test yet in a race packed with elite three-year-olds. Her challengers include:

• Asakura – travelling from Australia for trainer Mitchell Freedman with Dean Yendall aboard
• Belle Cheval – dominant winner of the Group 2 Uncle Remus Stakes
• La Dorada – representing the famous Te Akau Racing colours

A competitive polytrack meeting awaits punters at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Sunday, beginning with a tricky maiden opener.

Greek Heiress could spark a turnaround for Glen Kotzen’s yard after an encouraging local debut and should improve further. Taylor’s Version brings solid Cape form for her KZN debut and any market support would be significant. Lilting Song was unlucky when beaten favourite on poly debut and looks capable of going one better, while Sail The Horizon steps up to a mile and could improve.

In the Bi-Pot opener, Vaans Spirit showed progress second-up over this trip and should come on again. Future Prospect remains lightly raced with scope, while consistent Saudi Sweep has a good draw and added distance in her favour.

The Mask can get the PA off to a strong start after several close efforts and should again be competitive over course and distance. Music Is Life is reliable despite poly concerns, while veteran Ibutho chases an 11th career victory following strong recent form.

Sovereign Grant disappointed last time but returns to the poly without blinkers and can bounce back. Convocation is consistent and a previous poly winner, while Kythera’s local debut makes her one to watch in betting.

Magical Sky holds solid claims in race five after a recent course-and-distance win, aided by a claiming allowance. Snow Queen, despite still being a maiden, could improve sharply on earlier Highveld form.

Ms Galore returns to her preferred surface and looks a major contender, with lightweight Sweeter Than Honey and consistent Sesame posing dangers.

In race seven, Banzai Pipeline appears overdue another win. Back on the poly in modest company, he looks well placed to strike, though Takeyourbestshot and Mohandas add depth.

Opera Fan heads the eighth if handling the surface, while Pretty Kara and Blue Poppy are close rivals. In a competitive finale, Rafiki’s consistent poly form makes him a leading chance alongside Pearl In Her Crown and returning Quinn’s Time.

The spotlight falls on Turffontein Racecourse on Saturday as a bumper 12-race programme delivers one of the Highveld season’s strongest betting cards, headlined by three Grade 1 contests under the Hong Kong Jockey Club World Pool banner.

Race 6 features the Wilgerbosdrift SA Fillies Classic, the second leg of the Triple Tiara, where Gauteng Fillies Guineas winner Hazy Dazy looks the filly to beat. Trained by Corne Spies, she overcame a wide draw and a lengthy break to win the first leg convincingly, defeating many of Saturday’s rivals. The step up to 1800m appears ideal and she looks firmly on track toward the lucrative Triple Tiara bonus.

The colts and geldings clash next in the HKJC World Pool SA Classic, leg two of the TAB Triple Crown. The powerful partnership of Mike de Kock and Mathew de Kock holds a strong hand. Champion juvenile Jan Van Goyen returns after a below-par run in the L’Ormarins King’s Plate but faces stamina questions stepping beyond 1600m. Stablemate Splittheeights appeals as a major contender after an impressive Gauteng Guineas victory suggesting further improvement over this trip, while One Eye On Vegas could feature after an unlucky passage last time.

Race 8, the HF Oppenheimer Horse Chestnut Stakes, brings together proven stars. Former winners Main Defender and Cosmic Speed reappear, but attention centres on Cape rivals See It Again and The Real Prince. The latter won their King’s Plate clash, while See It Again, now with Justin Snaith, gained revenge in the Cape Town Met. The Turffontein mile could favour See It Again’s blend of stamina and acceleration.

Earlier, the Listed juvenile races offer future clues. Unbeaten filly Volcanic Heat takes on males in the Storm Bird Stakes and receives weight, while Sean Tarry’s runners feature strongly across the juvenile features. In the Ruffian Stakes, progressive filly Griselda looks capable of continuing both her stable’s and sire Erik The Red’s recent success.

SA FILLIES CLASSIC FINAL FIELD

HORSE CHESTNUT STKS FINAL FIELD

SA CLASSIC FINAL FIELD

That was a hit in the 80s for Bon Jovi — in 1988, to be precise — and the horse of the same name has struck form with a bang of late. Bad Medicine is a four-year-old who has won three of his 19 starts and is unbeaten with two wins for trainer Kelly Mitchley. The Vercingetorix gelding looked good when scoring on the Polytrack at the beginning of January but looked even better when winning on the turf over 2500m on 30 January. Both wins were with Muzi Yeni in the saddle and he retains the ride. Earlier in the card, it may be worth siding with two runners from the Alan Greeff yard, both to be ridden by stable jockey Richard Fourie. A former Eastern Cape Champion Two-Year-Old filly, Splicethemainbrace lost  her form at three when well beaten a couple of times. But she is back as a winner at four – and she is back with a bang! She has notched up a couple of impressive recent wins, her latest being the most impressive. The Master Of My Fate filly gave a lot of weight away to some of her rivals, but that did not matter at the finish as she stormed home a 4.25-length victor over Hoerikwaggo. On Friday the four-year-old filly is weighted to take out Race 3, a Pinnacle Stakes over 1600m. Stable companion North Star has been expensive to follow since winning on debut, but she deserves a winning turn and looks the right one in Race 7, a MR 78 Handicap for fillies and mares over 1000m. This Erik The Red filly has been runner-up in two of her last three starts and was a very narrow loser last time out. Clive Robinson

By Scott Bailey G1 Sharp EIT The All-Star Mile 1600m The All-Star Mile has quickly carved its own lane on the autumn program and this year’s edition looks a genuine chess match at speed over the Flemington mile. Race 7 at 3:40pm is worth $2,000,000 at weight for age, and with the track rated a Good 4 the race shapes as a true tempo test where the winner will need to travel and then produce under pressure. Tom Kitten brings the profile of last years All Star Mile winner. The Freedman stable has him in good order, Craig Williams takes the ride, and from barrier seven he should get the sort of stalking run that suits his pattern. His best form says he is right at home when the race is run properly, and he can build through his gears rather than be forced into a stop start sprint. Buckaroo has the Waller polish and the right rider in Mark Zahra, and there is a hard edge to his recent efforts that suggests he is close to landing a big one. Barrier six gives him plenty of options, and if the mile becomes a contest of strength late he is the type who can keep finding when others hit the wall. Treasurethe Moment is the wild card with a serious résumé and a lighter weight at 57 kilos. She has been mixing it with the best across the spring and summer, and from barrier nine Ben Melham can afford to be patient early and let her roll into the race when it matters. She is a multiple Group 1 calibre mare, and in a race like this class can show itself quickly once the pressure goes on. She has been hit and miss and sent out at short quotes, but her best is good enough in this. An interesting jockey booking is Hugh Bowman who flies into Melbourne from Hong Kong to partner the talented mare Stefi Magnetica. She has one mile win on her resume, and the former Stradbroke winner was beaten four lengths behind the star Autumn Glow. She should have plenty of improvement second up. The intrigue is how it is run, because Pride of Jenni’s presence always threatens to turn any mile into a high-pressure chase, and that sort of tempo can expose the bluffers while elevating the genuine milers. If the race is truly run, Tom Kitten, Buckaroo and Treasurethe Moment all look live chances to be the ones still standing and sprinting inside the final 200.   G1 Yulong Newmarket Handicap 1200m Flemington’s straight six has a reputation for telling the truth. There is no place to hide, no bend to slingshot momentum, just 1200 metres of open turf where speed, timing and courage are tested in full view of the grandstand. That is why the Newmarket Handicap continues to hold such weight in Australian racing. It is a sprint with history in every blade of grass and a handicap that ensures even the most brilliant horses must earn their moment. The race has been run for generations and has always been a measuring stick for elite sprinters. Champions have etched their names into the honour roll by mastering the Flemington straight under pressure. It is a contest where weight, tempo and positioning can turn the script upside down in seconds. That unpredictability is what makes the Newmarket one of the great spectacles of the Australian autumn. This year the spotlight naturally falls on the boom colt Tentyris, a horse who has quickly developed the kind of reputation that travels faster than the horses themselves. His Lightning Stakes victory last month was the performance that turned whispers into conviction. Settled near the tail, still spotting the leaders a significant head start when the race began to unfold, he unleashed a closing burst that few horses in the country could replicate. In a matter of strides, he swept past seasoned Group 1 sprinters and left the impression that he is not simply talented, but something genuinely special. Those kinds of performances do not go unnoticed, and the Newmarket now presents the next examination. A handicap can be a different beast entirely. Tentyris carries 57 kilograms and jumps from barrier twelve in a race where twenty plus runners can spread across the straight like a moving wall. Mark Zahra will need to time the colt’s run with precision, because while the Lightning showcased his brilliance, the Newmarket often demands patience and composure before the decisive burst. The opposition ensures this is far from a one-horse race. Baraqiel sits at the top of the weights and has proven himself a serious sprinting force, while War Machine arrives with a Group 1 résumé and the experience of racing at the highest level. Angel Capital and Sepals both bring class and depth of form, and Caballus has the type of racing pattern that can make him dangerous if the race unfolds in his favour. Among the lighter weighted chances, My Gladiola is hard to ignore after chasing Tentyris home in the Lightning and receiving significant relief at the weights with champion rider Craig Williams booked to steer. Benedetta is a seasoned mare who knows her way around Flemington’s straight course and will be hoping the tempo allows her to surge late. Another intriguing storyline surrounds Wodeton, the three-year-old who carries the minimum weight of 50 kilograms for the powerful Coolmore and Chris Waller combination. The ride will be taken by Irish jockey Wayne Lordan, and his presence in Melbourne has come after a journey that was anything but straightforward. With travel complications unfolding in the Middle East, Lordan was forced to take a circuitous route to Australia, ultimately travelling via the United States before finally touching down in Melbourne to honour the commitment. For Wodeton the Newmarket represents a chance to measure himself against hardened sprinters while enjoying the advantage of a feather weight. With Coolmore flying Lordan halfway around the world to take the mount, the intent is clear. They believe the colt deserves his opportunity on one of the biggest sprinting stages in the country. Yet the narrative continues to circle back to Tentyris. When a horse produces the kind of closing burst, he displayed in the Lightning Stakes, expectations naturally rise. The Newmarket Handicap has always been a race capable of turning a talented sprinter into a star, and if Tentyris can replicate that devastating acceleration down the Flemington straight he will not simply be adding another Group 1 to his record. He will be adding his name to a race that has defined Australian sprinting for generations.    

By Scott Bailey The Randwick Guineas is the sort of contest that tells you plenty about a three-year-old, not just what they’ve done, but what they’re about to become. The Agency Randwick Guineas over 1600 metres is a million-dollar Group 1 at set weights, and this year it’s shaped around a fascinating subplot, the colt who already owns a Guineas trophy versus the filly arriving with a ruthless winning habit. Autumn Boy and Sheza Alibi sit at the top of the market as joint favourites at $2.60, and it’s not hard to see why. Between them they bring the strongest blend of ratings, class and recent form in the field, and the map has been kind enough to both. Autumn Boy, trained by Chris Waller and to be ridden by James McDonald, is the proven Group 1 miler. He’s already won the Caulfield Guineas, and that isn’t a line on a resume you can talk your way into. It’s a statement that he can strut out to in the mounting yard and handle a truly run 1600 and finish off when the race gets serious. Back in Sydney this prep he wasn’t wound up first up in the Hobartville Stakes but still flashed home for third behind Ninja, finishing the race off from well back. That run had Guineas tightening written all over it, the kind of performance that says the engine is there, the legs just need the peak. Barrier 3 gives McDonald options. He can land soft early if they crawl or hold a slightly closer spot if the tempo is genuine. And with set weights, he gets his right weight against the boys. What you’re buying with Autumn Boy is profile and upside, the Waller polish, the McDonald timing, and the sense that a rise to the mile second up is exactly the recipe. Sheza Alibi, trained by Peter G Moody and Katherine Coleman and ridden by Luke Nolen, is the equal favourite for a reason. She’s a filly who knows where the winning post is, and she’s carried that habit through the grades into stakes company without blinking. Her Sandown Guineas win was decisive, and her most recent run in the Armanasco at Caulfield was an indication that she is one to be respected at the elite level. She put them away by panels. It wasn’t just a win. It was dominance on that day. She carries 54.5 kilograms and draws barrier 4, a sweet spot for Nolen to keep her in a stalking position. The big query in a Randwick Guineas is always whether you can handle the Randwick mile at Group 1 pressure, because it’s not just about distance, it’s about when the race is asked to be won. Her turn of foot has been her weapon, but what makes her so appealing here is she’s shown she can sustain it, not just pinch a break. If there’s a horse capable of keeping the favourites honest, Ninja, trained by Michael Freedman and ridden by Tommy Berry, is the obvious one. He beat Autumn Boy in the Hobartville and did it like a colt with a serious cruising speed, but this is his first go at the mile in public and it’s a different exam at Group 1 level. Decorum is the emerging local with the right profile and a rider who knows how to win big races at Randwick, while Attica brings the Godolphin quality and stable confidence, even if he’s drawn a touch wider. For all the depth, this still feels like a Guineas shaped by two headlines. Autumn Boy brings the I’ve done it before factor, elite mile class, proven under pressure, and a setup that screams improvement. Sheza Alibi brings the momentum, an in-form filly with the light weight, the right draw, and the kind of confidence you can’t manufacture. At $2.60 each, it’s a market calling it as a genuine coin toss. And the Randwick Guineas has a habit of rewarding the horse that can keep their nerve when the race turns from a run to a fight. Randwick’s 1300 metre weight for age Group 1 takes place straight after the Randwick Guineas, and the Canterbury Stakes has a honour roll to prove it. More Joyous, Pierro and Artorius are just three of the names who’ve used this slot in autumn as a launching pad, or a statement that they were already at the top. This year’s edition is worth $750,000 and it brings together a neat mix of hardened stars and rising forces, all with no excuses under standard weight for age. The tempo is usually genuine, the corners come quickly, and the winner is often the horse that can hold a position and still sprint when the pressure arrives. Gringotts heads the weights at 59kg and brings elite form and a big engine, but the 1300 metre query remains the one line you can’t ignore. He’s proven at the mile and beyond, and if the race turns into a strong rolling contest, he’ll be charging late, though a field like this can punish anyone forced to give away a start.

Headley Grange is the profile horse for this distance. He’s a multiple winner at 1300, he’s tough, and he knows how to win in the furnace. From a wider draw he’ll need luck to slot in, but if he finds cover, he’s built for the race shape. The mares add the spark. Joliestar is the headline act on class and recent evidence. She’s already shown she’s flying this prep, and when Waller has one ready for a Randwick weight for age target, you pay attention. She won a Group 1 Kingsford Smith Cup last June and with James McDonald and barrier 4, she maps to get every chance to land in the right spot and press the button at the right time. Lady Shenandoah is right there as well, with the upside to take another step, and her racing style can keep her in the fight even if it turns tactical. She’s a talented mare and is looking to take that next step in her career. Linebacker and Yorkshire add depth and danger, both capable of running top class figures when things go their way, while Napoleonic and Nepotism inject the three-year-old angle at the set weight scale, the kind of runners who can surprise older horses if they’ve found the right race at the right moment.  

Bettors playing the Highveld card at the Vaal Racecourse on Thursday 5 March could do worse than build their perms around one yard, as Sean Tarry’s battalion looks poised to plunder at least three of the 10 races on the Classic track. With heavyweight jockey support from Keagan de Melo, Callan Murray and Ryan Munger, this meeting shapes as one where bettors will likely be rewarded for calculated strikes rather than a scattergun raid of hopeful punts. And it may start as early as Race 1 over 1200m, where the beautifully bred Grande Hawaii should get Tarry and De Melo off to a winning start. This daughter of Hawwaam shaped with plenty of promise when third of 10 on debut over 1160m, travelling kindly before just lacking the final punch. That experience edge is gold dust against unraced opposition. Natural improvement is expected and, from a yard that knows how to ready a juvenile second-up, she sets the standard in the opener. By Race 3, over 1200m, Tarry could already be onto a double. Speedman has done little wrong in four starts, tasting defeat just once, and the son of Vercingetorix looks a three-year-old going places. His latest win over 1450m on Turffontein’s Inside track was achieved with enough tactical pace to suggest the drop back to a sharp 1200m won’t inconvenience him – it might even sharpen him. Munger, who clicked immediately with him last time, keeps the ride. That continuity counts, and so does the profile: progressive, adaptable, and still ahead of the handicapper. Murray’s book of rides also catches the eye. He partners the well-related Top Floor in Race 4 over 1600m and there was plenty to like about the gelding’s fast-finishing second over the same trip a fortnight ago. Now in the powerful Mike & Mathew de Kock yard after starting his career with James Crawford, the son of Rafeef has been gelded and appears to be thriving in his new environment. He would have tightened up considerably with that comeback run under his belt. With even marginal improvement, he looks poised to go one better. Murray could double up in Race 8 over 2000m aboard well-bred One More Star. Trained by Alec Laird, the son of One World is a proven course-and-distance performer, having won two of four over this very track and trip before a disappointing last-start effort in stronger company that is best forgiven. Back at his favourite venue, eased in grade, and reunited with a rider who knows how to time a run on this expansive circuit, One More Star makes solid each-way appeal in what is otherwise a tricky handicap. De Melo aims his next major bullet in Race 9 over 1000m. Here he partners highly regarded Pivotal Role for Johan Janse van Vuuren. This Hawwaam gelding wasn’t disgraced when third over course and distance on his return from a break last time, showing bright early pace before fitness told late. That form has already been franked, and off an unchanged rating with the benefit of that pipe-opener, he should strip sharper. In this grade, he looks the one they all have to beat. Tarry will probably have the final say in Race 10 over 1450m. Trail Runner, a daughter of Lancaster Bomber, has blossomed since the blinkers went on: two wins and a second from three starts with the headgear is compelling evidence. She scored with authority over this trip on handicap debut at Turffontein’s Inside track three weeks ago and, although hit with a four-point penalty, her upward trajectory suggests she can defy top weight, even against male opposition. Munger, already potentially on the board with Speedman, could well be anchoring the exotics with her late in the day. For punters, the blueprint is clear: follow the stable, respect the jockey bookings, and don’t get too clever trying to beat horses who look ready to win. Clive Robinson