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NICCONI
CROWNED HORSE OF THE YEAR Star sprinter Nicconi was last night crowned the Goldners Horse Transport 2009 Horse of the Year at the annual South Australian Thoroughbred Breeders Award Dinner at Morphettville. Bred by Lindsay Park Stud in partnership with long time stable clients Peter Devitt and Les Gordon, Nicconi has confirmed his status as one of the country's best racehorses and his award win was truly deserved. A recent brilliant winner of the Group One Lightning Stakes at Flemington, Nicconi won four races during 2009 including a runaway win over fellow Group One winners Danleigh and Gold Trail in The Galaxy at Randwick. The son of Bianconi, from the grand producing Scenic mare Nicola Lass, was retained to race by his breeders and as it stands his record reads out at six wins and four minor placings from just 13 starts and earnings of over $988,000. It was a hotly contested race for the big award of the night with Nicconi's older half brother Niconero and dual Derby winner Rebel Raider among the other major contenders. Other finalists for the Horse of the Year crown were highly regarded gallopers Alcopop, Augusta Proud, Baughurst, Majestic Music, Serious Speed, Shamoline Warrior, Silent Surround, Symphony Miss and Very Discreet. Rebel Raider was a runaway winner in the Leading 3YO award, while group winner Silent Surround was judged the best SA bred juvenile of last season. Popular Kambula Stud based sire Blevic was announced as the SA Stallion of the Year, while Lindsay Park Stud's Face Value swept both the First Season and 2YO categories. It was no surprise Nicola Lass was announced as Broodmare of the Year - being the dam of star stablemates Nicconi and Niconero. Meanwhile, long time South Australian owner/breeders, Ken and Helen Smith were the recipients of the prestigious Matrice Award – for outstanding contribution to the SA industry. The Smiths have bred and raced a number of high class gallopers and have always supported stallions standing in South Australia. The majority of their horses to race have carried the "Exalted" prefix and include the likes of Exalted Lad, Exalted Keetah, Exalted Ego and Adelaide Cup winner Exalted Time. A list of the award winners last night is as follows: Goldners
Horse Transport 2009 Horse of the Year Atkins
Photography 2009 Horse of the Year Finalists Magic
Millions Leading SA Stallion SA
Jockey Club Leading SA 2YO Sire Schweppes
Australia Leading SA First Season Sire Haighs
Pty Ltd Broodmare of the Year Hyde
Park Press Breeder of Leading SA 2YO Kentucky
Equine Research Breeder of Leading SA 3YO Newmarket
Insurance Brokers Leading SA Breeder (Cat 1 by Stakes Winners) Newmarket
Insurance Brokers Leading SA Breeder (Cat 2 by SA Stallions) Yalumba
Group One Winner Awards Morphettville
Equine Clinic Matrice Award HASNA'S
HALF BROTHER TOPS MM SALE An outstanding half brother to champion juvenile Hasna topped the 2010 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale tonight when he sold for $925,000. The colt, by leading Arrowfield Stud sire Redoute's Choice, was snapped up by Lindsay Park bloodstock agent Mark Pilkington and BC3 Australia boss Bill Vlahos. The duo were thrilled outbid Hasna's former trainer Gai Waterhouse to grab the star lot of the sale. The colt will be prepared by the BC3 team prior to joining the stables of David Hayes. "I think most people on the grounds thought he was the best colt," Pilkingon said. "He has all the necessary athletic qualities and clearly the best pedigree in the book," he added. Vlahos said he was thrilled to be forming a link with the Lindsay Park training operation. "I wanted to become involved in a top juvenile prospect and have who I think is the country's best two-year-old trainer prepare him," he said. "I'm thrilled to be going into a joint partnership with such a great racing stable," Vlahos added. A strong night of selling helped push the overall Session One to Four gross to $66.64 million. The average price per lot was $129,399 and the clearance rate of 82 per cent. "It's been a very successful sale," Magic Millions Managing Director David Chester reported following Saturday night's session. "The sale gross is up on last year with a stronger clearance rate - and the average is only a tick under last year's figures." "All in all we're very pleased and I've spoken to many vendors and they seem pleased with their results." The fifth session sale will be held at the complex from 11am (Qld time) tomorrow. "There are some really attractive youngsters going under the hammer and all astute buyers should be there." KAV'S
RUN CONTINUES WITH OUTLANDISH LAD Melbourne Cup winning trainer Mark Kavanagh added another winner to his growing tally of spring successes when Outlandish Lad won the $101,500 All Greys (1400m) at Flemington today. A relative newcomer to the stable, Outlandish Lad sat on the speed throughout before bursting clear in the straight and racing away for an easy win. Kavanagh is still coming to terms with the outstanding win of the Magic Millions Yearling and Horses in Training graduate Shocking in the $5.5 million Melbourne Cup on Tuesday. "I'm still numb," Kavanagh said. "I keep pinching myself, but I can't feel it." The win of Outlandish Lad, a graduate of the 2007 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale, continued the stable's winning ways. "He only joined our stable a short time ago," Kavanagh said. "Sam had him in Adelaide and got him going and he said, this thing will win the greys race - you better take it over there." "We brought him over and gave him a bit of a run to settle in at Sale and then attack for this race," he added. "He's a handy horse and he'll probably get a bit further. He's been improving with us." The win continued the good run for the stable's regular rider Michael Rodd. "We went to Sale last start on Cup Day and he was a little bit unlucky," Rodd noted. "It was a leaders track and he got back and ran on really well." "I thought coming here today he'd be pretty hard to beat." "We had a bit of an ordinary barrier but we were able to overcome that - we had a bit of luck, but he proved too good for these." "He's got a really nice turn of foot and he put paid to them pretty quick," Rodd summed up. Outlandish Lad ($3.30-$4-$3.90 fav) cruised home and at the post held a length margin over the runner-up Translation ($13-$14). Third home was Go Forest Go ($8.50-$10-$9), who was another three and a quarter lengths back. Outlandish Lad, by Breeders' Cup Turf champion Fantastic Light, is one of two winners, from two runners, for his dam Quantum Leap. A dual city winner at 1000 metres by Regal Classic, Quantum Leap is a half sister to the Adelaide stakes winner Navy Shaker. His is also the family of the group winner Sovereign Appeal - dam of former classy stakes galloper Rainbird Blue. Outlandish Lad's record has been enhanced to three wins and four runner-up placings from just 12 runs. His earnings have raced to $144,090 - not bad considering he could have been yours for just $30,000. VALUABLE STAKES WIN FOR STRAWBERRY
FIELD Strawberry Field sent her broodmare value soaring when she flew home to beat hot favourite Ortensia and win the listed $151,500 Maybe Mahal Stakes (1400m) at Flemington on Cup Day today. One of the most admired fillies at the 2007 Magic Millions Yearling Sale at the Gold Coast, Strawberry Field took the eye of leading Sydney trainer John O'Shea and he went to $430,000 to secure the top prospect. "She was a magnificent yearling," O'Shea recalled. "A great type and she made good money." Now a four-year-old, Strawberry Field confirmed her place as one of the country's most valuable broodmare prospects with a maiden stakes victory. "She's always been a talented mare," O'Shea said. "We've been patient with her." "It's nice to reap some rewards on a day like today. It's always an honour to train a winner on Melbourne Cup Day." "We're really pleased." The daughter of Encosta de Lago narrowly missed a stakes win milestone when she was out bobbed by Madame Pedrille in the listed Nivison in Sydney two runs back. "She ran great when fresh and all but won in stakes grade and then last start she had no hope in a race where they walked," O'Shea reported. O'Shea said the mare could run in the Summoned Stakes at Sandown on Saturday week - if she doesn't she will be spelled. "The win today puts some good value on her. It's made the day a good one." Strawberry Field ($17-$21) finished too well for the hot favourite Ortensia ($1.80-$2-$1.95 fav) and beat that highly regarded daughter of Testa Rossa by a half length. Ortensia's stablemate Rose Syrah ($12-$14-$11) was another half length back in third place. Strawberry Field was bred in South Australia by the Toole family's Kambula Stud, the home of her broodmare sire Blevic. She was sold on their behalf by Coolmore Stud at the Gold Coast and was to that time the highest priced yearling Kambula had sold at auction. Her dam, the four time winner Red Labelle, was a quality race mare in her own right and scored her best win in the listed Red Roses Stakes at Flemington on Oaks Day in 2002. Her two runners to date are both stakes performers - her current two-year-old, the Stratum colt Pellizotti, was third in the listed Maribyrnong Trial Stakes earlier this season. Tragically for the team at Kambula, Red Labelle died in September last year. TRSA
LAUNCHES NEW BRAND AND WEBSITE South Australian Racing has a new home online. In launching a new brand and direction for the future, Thoroughbred Racing South Australia (TRSA) has launched an exciting website. As the website proudly says - there's nothing like a day at the races!
To view the new website click on the above link. REBEL
RAIDER CROWNED SA'S CHAMPION Dual Derby winner Rebel Raider has continued the Horse of the Year streak for Magic Millions by being crowned as South Australia's Champion Racehorse of the Year at the TRSA industry awards yesterday in Adelaide. The Cups bound son of Reset, who ran a slashing first up third in Saturday's Penny Edition Stakes, was rewarded for his outstanding three-year-old season by capturing the state's highest racing honour. Trained during the season by his yearling sale purchaser Leon Macdonald, Rebel Raider shot to prominence when he and Clare Lindop raced to victory over Whobegotyou in last year's VRC Derby at Flemington. He proved that was no fluke when he returned at his next preparation to win South Australia's premier event for three-year-olds and completed a rare Derby double. Macdonald, who now trains in partnership with Andrew Gluyas from Morphettville, went to $150,000 to buy the Rebel Raider from the draft of Mill Park Stud at the 2007 Magic Millions Yearling Sale at the Gold Coast. As it stands the classy stayer has earned over $1.3 million and is one of the favourites among local gallopers for November's $5.5 million Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington. Rebel Raider follows in the hoofsteps of Scenic Blast, Theseo and Phelan Ready who in the past fortnight have won the Victorian, New South Wales and Queensland equivalent Horse of the Year awards. "Four Horse of the Year awards have been presented in Australia over recent days and all four are Magic Millions graduates," Managing Director David Chester noted. "There is no finer honour for the connections of their galloper to be crowned the best of their state." "Rebel Raider looks the best local chance of winning the Melbourne Cup this year. He showed his class in thumping Whobegotyou in the Derby last year." "It seems not only can we sell the best juveniles with the dominance over a decade in the Golden Slipper - but we have the present best open age sprinter and also the finest staying prospect in the country." "That further shows our motto of something for everyone is certainly true." Chester said it was interesting to note that all of the four recently crowned champions were purchased for $150,000 or less. "Value is second to none at Magic Millions sales. Just look at Rebel Raider, Theseo, Phelan Ready and Scenic Blast." "At a combined purchase price of $515,000 the quartet have already earned over $9 million. Now that's what you'd call impressive." A full list of the winners from yesterday's TRSA Industry Awards follows: South Australian
Jumps Jockey of the Year - Adrian Lechmere Magic Millions release AUGUSTA
PROUD BACK TO HER BEST Grand filly Augusta Proud bounced back to her brilliant best at Morphettville on Saturday when she stormed home to win the listed Dermody Stakes (1050m). In getting up to beat Cerberus Gal with a brilliant finishing burst, Augusta Proud clinched the jockey's premiership for Chad Lever - who finished a half win ahead of rival Simon Price at the last Adelaide meeting of the season. Ridden off the speed, Augusta Proud ($2.25 fav) was able to come with a strong burst when asked to accelerate between runners by Lever and beat Cerberus Gal ($7) by a nose. Third home was the previously unbeaten Orbiting Belle ($6), a further length back. A record breaker - the only horse to ever complete the Gold Coast and Adelaide Magic Millions 2YO Classic double - Augusta Proud is a daughter of leading Vinery Stud stallion More Than Ready. Despite having not won a race since the $1.5 million Conrad Jupiters Magic Millions 2YO Classic (1200m) at the Gold Coast last year, the outstanding performer has run a string of excellent races. Only two runs back she ran fourth, just over two lengths from Takeover Target, in the Group One The Goodwood. She was also placed in no fewer than four other stakes events in both Melbourne and Adelaide. "While she didn't win during her last preparation she ran a number of good races," winning trainer Leon Macdonald said. "She was running in some good quality races and certainly wasn't disgraced," he added. Augusta Proud's record reads out at seven wins and four minor placings from just 15 starts. The filly has not only become a favourite of the Leon Macdonald stable, but also one of South Australian race fans in general. Augusta Proud has earned a staggering $1,598,778 - not bad for a filly who could have been yours for just $50,000 at the 2007 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale. Macdonald said the filly would have her next start in either the Spring Stakes in Adelaide or Cockram Stakes at Caulfield. He would see how she performs at her next start before deciding on a race or two to target during the spring. "I'd have a look at perhaps giving her a bit of a freshen after her next run and pick out something at Flemington for her," he pointed out. ADELAIDE
GRADUATES FLY TO MELBOURNE WINS I Need to Fly, one of the most admired lots at last year's Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale, notched a valuable city win when she rocketed home to win the Cecil Godby 2YO Handicap (1410m) at the MRC meeting at Sale today. An athletic grey filly, I Need to Fly is raced by Nathan Tinkler's Patinack Farm operation after being purchased for $105,000 from the draft of Kambula Stud at last year's Morphettville based Adelaide sale. At her third career start I Need to Fly did fly, came from well back in the field under Craig Newitt to win in impressive fashion. "She drew ordinary and I was always going to ride her quiet," Newitt commented "There was a genuine speed during the race and from the 600 (metre mark) I was always pretty confident." Newitt said he and trainer Mick Price have been impressed with how the bright prospect has continued to improve after each start. "She keeps going forward. From her first run she's been racing a lot from tractable. She's a horse that will certainly get over further ground." Graduates of the Adelaide Yearling Sale made it an early flat race double when promising Tony Noonan prepared galloper Cut and Run won the Fire Band Handicap (1610m). As well as being a double for Adelaide graduates, it was early a race to race double for the Group One winner Newitt. "I think she's a bit better than Wednesday class," Newitt said. Newitt was particularly impressed with the way the daughter of Dash for Cash picked up when required in the straight. "She was a long way off them," he pointed out. "But at the top of the straight I knew she was going to go past them." "I think she is a filly who will go on to bigger and better things." Cut and Run was purchased for just $27,000 from the draft of Emirates Park at the 2007 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale. ADELAIDE
GRADUATE NABS KIWI FEATURE The first class record of graduates of the Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale in New Zealand rolled on today when promising performer Platinum Zana won the listed Tauranga Classic (1400m). The three-year-old filly by Noverre, a $46,000 buy for renowned kiwi agent Paul Beamish, got home in a busy finish to capture the feature weight-for-age contest. The win provided a major season milestone for her trainer Lisa Latta - win number 50. And it was a milestone for her sire, the one time Aussie shuttler Noverre - a Group One winning son of Rahy, his first Australasian stakes winner. Of his other nine worldwide stakes winners - the only other conceived in Australia (Profit Report) races in South Africa. Platinum Zana was sold in Adelaide by leading New South Wales based thoroughbred nursery, Attunga Stud, as agent. It wrapped up a big 12 hour period for graduates of Attunga Stud - an international stakes race double. Overnight in South Africa the Gold Coast graduate Sharks Bay scored an impressive win in the Group Two Post Merchants at Greyville. Platinum Zana, a three time winner and placegetter from just 15 starts with earnings of over $83,000, is one of three winners from the Mighty Avalanche mare Fanfare. Fanfare, who won three races to 1100 metres, is a half sister to the Sydney stakes winner Dance Band (9 wins and over $133,000). Other recent Adelaide Yearling Sale graduates to star in New Zealand include Group One winners Spin Around and Young Centaur and Group One performed sprinter Atapi. SA
BRED MARE SETS MM RECORD Champion racemare Princess Coup sold for an all time Magic Millions record price of $3 million during today's first session of the National Broodmare Sale at the Gold Coast. New South Wales based bloodstock agent Tony Bott held the bid when auctioneer Julian Blaxland dropped the gavel with history being made. Bott outbid a New Zealand based group to buy the four time group one winner and earner of over $4 million. "She went for more than I thought," Bott said. "I thought we might be able to get her for $2 to $2.5 million." "But mares like her only come up ever couple of years and we were keen to buy her. Earlier in the year I was underbidder on Samantha Miss to John Singleton." "It's nice to be able to buy one of these great mares." Bott described Princess Coup as an outstanding prospect who would be a great addition to his client's broodmare band. "She was a champion racehorse and she is a smashing individual. She will make a great broodmare." "Whether she is a value buy - I guess time will tell," he summed up. Bott said no decision had been made as yet as to which stallion would be chosen for Princess Coup this season. "That will be a decision for my client - but obviously stallions like Redoute's Choice and More Than Ready could be options," Bott summed up. Bidding for Princess Coup kicked off at $500,000 with Blaxland announcing the mare was "on the market." Seconds later bidding had passed the magical million dollar barrier and after a few minutes her priced had crept up to her final sale price of $3 million. Princess Coup was consigned by Willow Park Stud as agent and catalogued in the supplementary as lot number 1466. It was a homecoming of sorts for the South Australian bred mare who was purchased as a yearling at the National Sale four years ago. On that occasion the daughter of Encosta de Lago mare $260,000 and was purchased for John Bromley and Ray Coupland by kiwi agent David Ellis. All of Princess Coup's former connections including Bromley, Coupland, Ellis and trainer Mark Walker were at the sale today. MUGAHARREB'S
SIRE ON THE RISE Promising South Australian based first season sire Mugharreb made it two winners for the week when promising youngster Blueharreb won the $20,000 Red Centre Classic (1200m) at Alice Springs today. Sent forward early by former SA jockey David Wilson, Blueharreb zoomed straight past the hot favourite Curtseyed at the top of the straight and cruised home for the easiest of wins. The gelding, trained at the track by Norm Bracken, was trapped three deep for much of the race, but that didn't seem to matter when at his second state he captured the Red Centre's feature juvenile event. Wilson, 31, recently made a comeback to the saddle after originally kicking away his career as a successful apprentice in South Australia. "He won well," Wilson said of Blueharreb. "He's had a few little issues but he's coming good now and putting it all together." Blueharreb, who is from the Danger mare Bluegari, was purchased by Bracken for $4,000 from the draft of Willow Grove Stud at last year's Magic Millions Adelaide June Monthly Sale at Morphettville. The latest winner gave Willow Grove Stud's Ralph and Linda Satchell plenty to smile about. They bred and sold Blueharreb and stand his sire, the exciting young Gone West stallion Mugharreb. Blueharreb's victory follows the initial winner for Mugharreb at last Wednesday's South Australian provincial meeting. Mugharreb has been represented by four runners to date for two winners and two city placegetters. On Friday his promising youngster Game Power turned in the run of the race when he flashed home for second at Doomben. A number of other gallopers by Mugharreb have recently trialled well in Adelaide and are set for debuts over the coming weeks. A young sire, whose progeny have sold up to $110,000 as yearlings, Mugharreb was a classy galloper who won a stakes event at Newmarket in the UK and was stakes placed on four different tracks. By former champion racehorse and renowned sire and sire of sires Gone West, Mugharreb is from the former champion European two and three-year-old filly Marling. His second dam Marwell was also rated the champion of her sex at two and three of her generation in Europe. Despite his great sale ring results and the recent successes by members of his first crop, Mugharreb will again stand at a fee of $5,500 (inc GST). REBEL
RAIDER WINS SA DERBY Rebel Raider won his second Derby and heralded himself as an early spring Cups contender when he led home a Magic Millions trifecta in Saturday's Group One South Australian Derby (2500m) at Morphettville. Local horseman Leon Macdonald was overjoyed at winning his second Derby with the $150,000 Gold Coast Yearling Sale buy - who's now earned over $1.3 million. "To win the Victoria Derby was sensational - but to now win my hometown Derby - this ranks right up with it," Macdonald said. Macdonald praised his stable rider Clare Lindop for her initiative in allowing Rebel Raider to go to the front after being caught deep with a lap to run. "Let's face it. Clare made the decision. She was three deep. She went to the front and rode the horse tremendously." "And she is a champion," Macdonald beamed. "I said to her before the race to ride him like a good thing and she did!" Macdonald said Rebel Raider would be sent for a well deserved spell and then return to his Morphettville stables with the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups being the major targets. "He's a good horse this bloke," Macdonald said. "I'm looking forward to the spring with him." Rebel Raider, by Reset and from the stakes performed mare Picholine, was bred and reared in South Australia and is a great success story for the local industry. He was sold by leading Meningie based thoroughbred nursery Mill Park for $150,000 at the 2007 Magic Millions Yearling Sale at the Gold Coast. Macdonald took a shine to the then yearling and had no hesitation in buying him. His breeders kept a share and the rest of the syndicate was filled with some strong stable clients. Interestingly, Rebel Raider's year younger half brother by Shamardal, Shamoline Warrior stormed home to win his first start on Friday at Sale for Mark Kavanagh. In a dream result for Magic Millions - two other gradates from the same 2007 sale ran the minor placings in South Australia's blue riband. Astro Gains, a son of Taimazov, was snapped up from the draft of Wattle Brae Stud for $100,000. Third placegetter Fitoussi, by Hussonet, cost $55,000 when purchased from the draft of Wadham Park. FIRST
STAKES WINNER FOR FACE VALUE Promising filly Silent Surround upstaged the favourite Imacruiser to win Saturday's Darley Sires' Produce Stakes (1600m) and in doing so become her fledgling sires' first stakes galloper. Prepared at Oakbank in the Adelaide Hills by Bill Smart, Silent Surround made strong ground late on the inside of Imacruiser and was able to nab that runner in the shadows of the post. Imacruiser, unbeaten in three runs leading into the juvenile feature, was softened up approaching the turn when Glen Boss sent Flawless Gem around the field to lock horses with the favourite. While Flawless Gem faded in the home straight, Imacruiser tried hard to keep kicking and was only gunned down late in a performance that lost no admirers. Bill Smart was thrilled with the performance of Silent Surround, who he adopted at an early stage. "She was originally purchased as a yearling (for $38,000) by Mark Minervini for Des Saint," Smart commented. "But then Mark retired and Des asked me if I could take her. Luckily I took a share in her as well." Saint sold out of the youngster and she now races in the Smart family colours of blue and a gold maltese cross and cap. Silent Surround showed a great deal of ability in her first two runs before she fired up last start and was nabbed in the home straight. This time around connections gained stewards permission for the filly to travel to the barriers in pacifiers prior to them being removed when entering the stalls. Regular stable rider Simon Price had no hesitation in allowing the lightly raced filly to drop out early and then make a run from back in the field on the inside of runners. Silent Surround isn't the first member of the family to have some little behavioural issues. "Her mother and half sister were a bit fizzy as well," Smart said. Silent Surround was purchased for just $38,000 at Australia's best value sale - the Adelaide Yearling Sale - from the draft of Lindsay Park Stud. Runner-up Imacruiser, a son of Akhadan, cost trainer Mick Huxtable just $17,000 from the draft of Oakside Park Stud at the same auction. Rounding out the trifecta was Bint Maher, a beautifully related filly by Al Maher, a $170,000 buy at Australia's premier weanling sale, the Magic Millions National Weanling Sale in 2007. Silent Surround is the first stakes winner for her sire, Lindsay Park freshman sire Face Value. Her dam, the city winning Rory's Jester mare Biography, is a half sister to the group winner and Australian Cup runner-up Station Hand. Two more of her half sisters have thrown stakes winners. One of the first on hand to congratulation Smart and his family was Lindsay Park Stud chief Sam Hayes. Face Value, a group winning son of Red Ransom, stands at the famous Angaston property alongside the likes of Barely a Moment and the recently announced Reaan. GROSS
HOLDS AT ADELAIDE SALE A daughter of leading Hunter Valley based stallion Testa Rossa topped the 2009 BMW Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale when she was sold for $115,000 today. Leading Victorian agent Kevin Dagg snapped up the youngster who was consigned by Gerry Harvey's Baramul Stud. "She's a great looking Testa Rossa filly," Dagg said. "She reminded me a lot of Rostova as a yearling." "I've had a bit of luck buying fillies by Testa Rossa in the past with Vormista." "This filly has been purchased for the same syndicate who race her." Connections of Vormista will be hoping for some luck after the filly was recently diagnosed with a tendon strain. "The prognosis from the vet is very good. It was found very early. She should be back in the spring." Over the first two sessions of the sale over $5.24 million was given for 261 yearlings at an average price of $20,102. The overall clearance rate of 74 per cent was greater than last year's end result of 72. Magic Millions Managing Director David Chester said he was pleased the sale seemed to be a little stronger today. "There was plenty of great buying to be had," Chester said. "Those who bought yearlings over the past couple of days will certainly be back next year." "The value this year was the best I've seen and even before this year the Adelaide Sale has been regarded as one of the best value sales in the Southern Hemisphere." "Today's second session was much stronger as a whole than last night's opening session." "To end up with the gross of the sale just $11,500 lower than last year is a particularly pleasing figure considering the current economic climate." "A number of other sales around Australia have had serious drops in their overall sale gross." The third and final session of the sale will be held from 12 noon (SA time) on Thursday. "This part of the sale is particularly popular with our local owners and trainers." "Plenty of top class gallopers are graduates of this session over the years," he summed up. SALE
STATISTICS Lots
Sold: 261 (200) SA
HORSE OF THE YEAR WINNERS Magic Millions
Leading Stallion Robert Sangster
Memorial Award for Leading 2YO Sire Claude Haigh
Memorial Broodmare of the Year Hyde Park Press
Award to Breeders of Leading 2YO Kentucky Equine
Research Award to Breeders of Leading 3YO Yalumba Award for
Group 1 Winners (Season 07/08) Newmarket
Insurance Brokers Awards to Leading SA Breeders Morphettville
Equine Clinic Matrice Award Goldners Horse
Transport Horse of the Year VALE: JON
CAMERON-SMITH The South Australian industry is mourning the loss of respected racehorse owner and breeder Jon Cameron-Smith. Cameron-Smith passed away this morning after a long battle with cancer. A former committeeman of the South Australian Thoroughbred Breeders (SATB), Cameron-Smith was associated with a number of top class gallopers. The majority of Jon's horses in recent years were trained by Mark Kavanagh and Leon Macdonald. He part owned Group One winners Umrum and Undoubtedly as well as high class performers including Dr Doute's, Easy Landing and Tipungwuti as well as classy jumper Shutayr. Jon is survived by partner Pam and sons Lachlan and Miles. ADELAIDE
GRADUATE WINS MILLIONS Tempest Tost confirmed her status as one of the nation's top three-year-old fillies with a powerful on speed win the $1 million Conrad Jupiters Magic Millions 3YO Trophy (1400m) at the Gold Coast today. The bonny grey daughter of Statue of Liberty held out a gallant Rock Kingdom to win the time honoured feature by a half length to the cheers of Tasmania and her loyal followers. The Tempest Tost story takes us around Australia. Foaled in Victoria, sold in Adelaide, trained in Tasmania, her lead up races in Melbourne and glory on the Gold Coast. Tempest Tost was purchased by Tasmanian Racing Club chairman Geoff Harper's Seahorse Management for just $72,500 at the 2007 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale. Today the lightly raced, but highly talented filly gave her connections their biggest thrills in the racing industry. "I'm absolutely elated to be here," Harper beamed. "The raceday is just fantastic - the atmosphere, the build up." "She's been by far the best horse I've had. She's out of a Group One winning family." The win continued a great relationship between Harper and Tempest Tost's trainer, good mate Gary White. "Don't wake me up - this is an amazing dream," White said from the winner's stall. "She's just an unbelievable filly." "I'm just so proud and just so pleased for Mr Harper and the family. For them to stick by me and give me the opportunity to train a great filly like this is great." "We picked her out at Trevenson Park and headed to Adelaide and bought her there. But for this to happen - it's just a dream come true." Connections weren't in any rush to announce future plans for the outstanding filly - but stakes races in both Melbourne and Sydney will be right in contention. "Darren (Gauci) has always thought she was a Group Two or Group One horse - but she's always had that problem with her knees." "But she keeps on finding. She shows that courage." "I will have to talk to the owner - but I'd be giving her a bit of a break now," White added. As well as having won prizemoney which has now spiralled to $738,864 the filly is worth many hundreds of thousands as both a racing and then broodmare prospect. She is the 15th named foal from the former smart and now grand producing Old Crony mare Lady Violet. Tempest Tost is the fourth stakes horse for her dam and the third stakes winning following the efforts of Well Known and Group One winner Notoire. Magic Millions managing director David Chester said the result was a great example of the breadth of his company's presence around Australia. "She was sold in Adelaide - trained in Tasmania and has won a million dollar race on the Gold Coast - what a great Magic Millions fairytale." "It goes to show what quality yearlings we offer not only on the Gold Coast but also in Adelaide. Let's not forget Augusta Proud either!" VALE:
JIM O'CONNOR Thursday saw the passing of J.J (Jim) O’Connor AM of Milluna Stud fame at the age of 80. Jim was a life member of the bookmakers association and the South Australian Thoroughbred Breeders. Jim's first passion was with trotters and was the breeder of the South Australian Derby winner Fiery Miss, then eventually he started to dabble in thoroughbreds and sold his first yearling in Adelaide in the 1964 yearling sales under the name Paramount Stud, Two Wells and the 9JO brand born. In 1965 Jim commissioned Bart Cummings to buy a filly lot 375 in New Zealand by Agricola for 1,800 guineas; bringing her back to South Australia she was named Farmer’s Daughter. Trained by Ab MacDonald and riden by J.J. Miller she won her first two starts and in the autumn won the SAJC Sires Produce Stakes. As a three year old she went onto win the VRC Oaks, AJC Oaks double confirming her as the best three year old filly of her year and to show her versatility she ran second in the Stradbroke Hcp. A very big offer from America was then made to Jim and he sold her. We are not sure if this where his love affair for imported mares started as her dam Geneve 11 (Relic) was imported in utero and foaled in New Zealand. With the funds from the sale of Farmer’s Daughter Jim purchased a property at One Tree Hill and named it Milluna Stud. Still sending mares out his first stakes winner he breed was the filly Quseir (Jacambre) then he was able to acquire and stand Red Rumour (Hail To Reason) an instant success at stud with 4 stakes winners from his first crop including Perth Cup winner Allegation, Sandown Guineas winner Carnation For Me, Good Conduct and Bug In A Rug. Exalt (Exbury) was the next stallion to stand at Milluna and again an immediate success with Exalts Pride (SA Derby), Ex Officio (Pt. Adelaide Guineas), plus the very good stakes winning mares Exalting, Anabasis among others to fly his flag. After spending 100’s of hours studying horse pedigrees Jim went overseas to buy a stallion in France the deal took a long time to complete but he finally clinched the deal to buy Twig Moss (Luthier)..Jim also believed he needed some overseas mares to compliment the Aust/New Zealand mares he had to give Twig Moss the best possible start at stud. Jim also credits his breeding success and matings to his love of racing pigeons and the inbreeding/outbreeding he experimented with., he was very disappointed when he had to give up breeding racing pigeons as they affected his health. In his Twig Moss’s first crop English Wonder out of an imported mare won the Sth Aust Derby. Twig Moss sired Derby Winners, Oaks winners group one sprinters…including Handy Proverb, Joindre, Mighty Dancer Sabah Dancer amongst his 44 stakes winners. Twig Moss was the leading Australian sire in 1985/86 and 1986/87. Hot on the heels of Twig Moss Jim imported New Regent (Vice Regent) who also was very successful siring Savana City the winner of the AJC Oaks who was also out of a mare imported from England for Jim. New Regent was the sire of 15 stakes winners. At the height of the success of Jim was made an offer to sell Twig Moss, New Regent and his mares along with the Browns of Narrung stud to Blandford Park in New South Wales, the offer was too good to refuse and Jim had to start again from scratch with his horses. It would be fair to say the stallions he stood over the next few years did not live up to the lofty heights of Twig Moss and New Regent but were handy with Damister getting a group one winner, Bellwater the sire of the dam of Northerly and Flash Of Steel only having the one crop. Health problems saw Jim cut down his operation again in 1989 with some lovely imported broodmares for sale including Kew Gardens sold for $220,000 she has been a very successful mare, the dam of Just Awesome, and grand-dam of Casino Prince, Dr.Green and Green Birdie. With his health improving again Jim then imported Made Of Gold to Australia and it showed he could still pick a stallion. Twelve winners from just 20 starters saw Made Of Gold leading first season sire of Australia. With the flying Gold Crystal leading the way with Mint of Gold. Success with Made of Gold then gave Jim an offer he could not refuse and he was sold to Victoria. The last stallion stood at Milluna Stud before he was transferred to Lindsay Park was the shuttle stallion Saratoga Springs. Jim in the early 1970’s started to buy tried horses for the emerging markets in Malaysia with his first horse Activate (Philanderer) a very big success there he was kept very busy with new contacts and buyers. This lead to Jim being a man before his time as he then talked the Asians into coming to the Adelaide sales to buy untried yearlings well before the auction houses started spending promotional dollars doing the same. At one stage the Adelaide sales were third on yearling averages in Australia above Victoria with over 35% of the yearlings being sold to Asia. Jim was a tireless worker for the South Australian Thoroughbred Breeders and was awarded the life membership and the Matrice Award in 1999. In 1983 he was awarded the Carbine Breeders award for leading stud in Australia. Milluna Stud may have closed down but the 9JO brand will be remembered all over Australia and Asia for many years to come. CHEYENNE
DANCER STARS IN MALAYSIA SA bred Malaysian sprint sensation Cheyenne Dancer continued his winning run when he cruised to victory in Sunday's RM$1 million Group 1 Astro Wah Lai Toi Sprint Trophy (1400m) in Penang. Prepared by former Perth based horseman Frank Maynard Jnr, Cheyenne Dancer got home to beat fellow Perth Yearling Sale graduate Triple Luck by a length and a half. Rio Burnett rode the winner to victory. The latest victory follows his previous start thumping of a crack field in the S$125,000 Astrovision Stakes (1200m) at Kranji in Singapore. His big victory on Sunday wasn't the first to earn Cheyenne Dancer valuable black type. He shot to prominence when as a youngster riding through the ranks he stormed to victory in the Magic Millions Classic at Penang. Originally purchased as a weanling by Michael Flannery from the Lakewood Stud Dispersal Sale and then re-sold at the 2005 Perth Yearling Sale, Cheyenne Dancer is turning out a marvellous money spinner for connections. Cheyenne Dancer, by one time Lindsay Park Stud based Danehill stallion Indian Danehill, is one of two winners from two runners for the Daylight Hour. A daughter of Brief Truce who was unraced, Daylight Hour has this season produced a lovely filly by Magic of Sydney and was served by Redoute's Choice stallion Passenger. BREEDERS
TO TAKE OVER PROMOTION OF SABIS The South Australian Thoroughbred Breeders have taken over the promotion of the state's thoroughbred breeding operation SABIS (South Australian Breeders Incentive Scheme). The breeders have contracted and will work closely with Thoroughbred Business Strategies Pty Ltd, a company headed by well known and respected industry identity David Bridgland. SATB president Graham Ingerson said his organisation was looking forward to playing their role in the growth of SABIS. "With stronger promotion we are looking forward to a significant increase in SABIS qualified horses," Ingerson said. "The SATB will work closely with David Bridgland in promoting SABIS to the state's thoroughbred industry." "David, being a former manager of SABIS, is ideally qualified for the role and together with our committee will be working hard is growing the scheme in the years looking forward." SABIS breeder nominations for foals born in 2007 will close on November 30. For SABIS qualified youngsters of the same age, the owner nomination fee must be paid by March 3 next year. Breeders may also pay the owner nomination fee any time up to March 31. "SABIS qualified yearlings will no doubt be popular at the Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale in March. We recommend all breeders qualify their homebred for SABIS." On July 31, SABIS completed its ninth fully operational racing season delivering bonus returns of $1,451,900 to owners, breeders, trainers and riders. On August 5 2008, TRSA announced significant increases for SABIS. These increased bonus levels will be rolled out across four levels of racing, namely: • Level 1 (metro standard meeting) bonuses rise from $15,000 to $20,000; • Level 2 (provincial/midweek) bonuses rise from$6,500 to $8,000; • Level 3 (country TAB) bonuses rise from$4,000 to $5,000; and • Level 4 (non-TAB) bonuses rise from $2,000 to $3,000. These increases apply to 2007-born eligible foals, and these foals will compete for the new level bonuses fromthe commencement of the 2009/10 racing season, when they turn two-years-old. The increases complement the recent announcement by TRSA of its five –year prizemoney strategy, with an extra $2.3million to be injected across the industry from November 1, 2008. DERBY
GLORY FOR SA BRED REBEL RAIDER Trail blazing jockey Clare Lindop rewrote more history at Flemington today when she partnered Rebel Raider to a runaway win in the Group One AAMI Victoria Derby (2500m). In winning the race aboard the Magic Millions sales ring "bargain," Lindop became the first female rider in the history of Australia's oldest classic to win. It could be a massive weekend for Lindop who on Tuesday will ride today's group winner Moatize in the Melbourne Cup. Rebel Raider's trainer Leon Macdonald was almost lost for words in the winner's circle - the win helping him erase the pain he suffered when former smart three-year-old Hydrometer was beaten a nose by hot favourite Helenus in 2002. "It was an impressive victory and what a ride," Macdonald exclaimed. "I'm still shaking." Rebel Raider ($101) cruised home to a two and a half length win in front of a massive crowd of 117,776 to beat the hot favourite Whobegotyou ($1.65-$1.75 fav). Another two and a quarter lengths back in third place was Pre Eminence Macdonald was glad to see the gelding get back to his best after a couple of substandard runs - although his recent placing in the Geelong Classic was more encouraging. "It was a very ordinary run in the Hill Smith (Stakes) in Adelaide. I thought he turned it around a little bit at Geelong." Macdonald was responsible for purchasing Rebel Raider as a yearling and has been with the promising youngster ever since. "We brought him up at the Gold Coast for $150,000 and syndicated him into ten shares and the rest is history I suppose." "He's a bargain buy now. He was quite a nice horse. I liked him and he's certainly done the job today." The owners include well known South Australian breeders Harry Perks, Trevor Robertson and Rod Fairclough. Another with a share is SAJC chairman John Naffine. "It's a great bunch of clients - some have been with me for many years - there's also a few newer ones there as well." The win continued the great partnership between Macdonald and Lindop - a former Victorian who's now well and truly a South Aussie. "She gives you 110 per cent every time she is out there," Macdonald said of Lindop. "I am very proud of her." "It's not the first time she has made a page of history. She won the Magic Millions on the Gold Coast as well." "We've been together as a combination for about four or five years now and she's been the leading rider (in Adelaide) for two of the last three and the other season she broke her leg and was out for three months." When asked whether he agreed with Bart Cummings' assessment of Lindop as Adelaide's best rider, Macdonald had no doubts. "By far." Macdonald said he went into today's blue riband more hopeful than confident. After all he was a 100/1 with bookies. "I wasn't confident at all," he said. "Especially when we drew barrier 15." "I thought if he could draw an inside gate and had a cushy run he was some chance. Macdonald is confident Rebel Raider can progress into one of the country's better staying prospects next time in, but he isn't looking too far "I think he can, but we're not really too worried past today to be honest." For Lindop, winning the Group One Victoria Derby was a dream come true. "It's fairly awesome," she said. "I'm shaking." "We never doubted this horses had the ability top stay." "He's not the easiest horse in the world to prepare but everyone in the stable from the strappers up got behind him to produce what he did today." "I didn't think he had a huge sprint, but the best part was that he was going to run the trip right out." "I was really impressed with the way he finished off today." Rebel Raider, a $150,000 bargain buy, has now boosted his earnings to $1,053,870. Today's win wasn't his first at black type level. As a two-year-old he captured the Sires' Produce Stakes at his home track of Morphettville. KELTRICE
ON THE CHEAP FOR SA BREEDERS Victorian based members Max and Judi Clarke have announced a special offer for members of the South Australian Thoroughbred Breeders. They are offering nominations to former Group One winning sprinter Keltrice at a "super special price" for 2008 - but to fellow SATB members only. "Agistment is also available for your mares at our Strath Creek property. Vet work is done on the property. We can offer personal walk ins etc," Max Clarke said. "Anyone interested should call me now on (03) 5784 9336 or 0407 327 400 anytime," he summed up. SA
BREEDERS WELCOME SABIS BOOST The South Australian Thoroughbred Breeders have welcomed an announcement today of SABIS bonus increases. The bonuses, which will apply to foals born from 2007, will be increased at all levels. SATB President Graham Ingerson said the boost was just what the local breeding industry was looking for. "These latest SABIS increases are very much welcomed by all thoroughbred breeders in South Australia," Ingerson said. "Our committee has worked hard with TRSA officials to enhance the local breeders and owners bonus scheme and today's news is very positive." "The news is a double boost after stakes boosts for SA racing over the next five years was announced by TRSA." The increases bonuses will apply to all four levels of racing as follows:
In a statement issued today TRSA Chief Executive Ian Hart said the increases would apply to 2007-born eligible foals. "These foals will compete for the new level bonuses from commencement of 2009/10 racing season when they turn two years old," Mr Hart said. "Bonus levels are currently running at around $1.5 million, but these increases will see that rise by an estimated $300,000 to $1.8 million per year." These increases come off the back of this week's announcement by the TRSA Board of the first instalment in its five-year prizemoney strategy, with an extra $2.3 million to be injected across the industry from 1st November 2008. SA
BREDS STAR IN DARWIN Club Liquid led the way for the South Australian bred gallopers on a big Darwin Cup Day at Fannie Bay this afternoon. A son of one time Coolmore Stud shuttler Fasliyev, Club Liquid had racegoers searching for the record books when he raced away for a stunning 13 length win in the NT's biggest race - the Carlton Draught Darwin Cup (2000m). Trained and owned by popular local horseman Dick Leech, Club Liquid controlled the race from the front and never gave his rivals a look in - bolting away before the turn and increasing his margin as the race went on. Club Liquid is one of nine winners from the good producing Sir Ivor mare Dame Ivor. As well as Club Liquid she is the dam of the American stakes winners Saratoga Dandy and Saratoga Dame. The latter went on to throw three US stakes performers including Group Two winner and five time Group One placegetter Dollar Bill. The Darwin Cup provided a trifecta result for SA breds with Lanson (Gallo di Ferro-Bucks Fizz) and Nozi (Blevic-Gala Jazz) running second and third. Earlier in the day Faslination, bred by the late Ian Barton, gave the locals a win in the QANTAS Invitation Plate (1300m). Also by Fasliyev, Faslination and David Bates cruised home to beat the favourite and early leader Yuki by two and three quarter lengths. Meanwhile, former Adelaide mare Blackstone Rose made it two wins from two runs in the Top End with an impressive win in the Wolf Blass Lightning Plate (1000m). Now trained by winning rider David Bates, Blackstone Rose is a five-year-old mare by Black Hawk bred by Mandy and Stephen Powell. Described as a "temperamental customer" by her new trainer, Blackstone Rose looks a sprinting star of the future and will be set for next year's Palmerston Sprint. ADELAIDE
TREBLE FOR BLEVIC Kambula's Stud resident sire star Blevic had a day out to remember at Morphettville on Saturday with a winning treble. Miss Blake, a newly turned three-year-old filly from former smart Eyre Peninsula mare Emerald Lake, kicked away the big day out when she won the first flat race - the third event of the day. A member of the Jon O'Connor stable, Miss Blake beat the favourite Cerberus Gal by a half length and then had to survive a protest befor being confirmed the winner. Three races later is was the turn of Holy Guacamoley to return a winner - a comprehensive victor of the Schweppes Handicap (1600m). With Jason Lyon up the four-year-old mare got home by a half length, delighting trainer John Macmillan. The treble was registered about 35 minutes later when talented five-year-old gelding Exalted Thomas won the Irish Race Day August 16th Handicap (1200m). Bred and raced by Ken and Helen Smith, the Jim Smith trained performed got home under Donna Carrigg to beat proven stakes performer Bold Line by a half length. For good measure Blevic was also represented by a winner on Saturday at the non-TAB New South Wales meeting at Gilgandra. Blevic is standing this spring at Kambula Stud on the outskirts of Kadina at a service fee of $5,500 (inc GST). ADELAIDE
MIXED SALE ON SUNDAY A quality catalogue of almost 190 horses will go under the hammer at Sunday's Magic Millions Adelaide Mixed Thoroughbred Sale at Morphettville. Horses of all ages - from weanlings to broodmares - are up for sale at the biggest mixed thoroughbred sale held in Adelaide for at least five years. "No matter what you're on the look out for there's something in the sale for you," Magic Millions South Australian manager Tim Brown said today. "In regards to racing prospect there's unbroken stock to proven stakes winners and everything in between," he added. "There's a fine line up of weanlings, yearlings and broodmares - a number covered by top class stallions." Brown said the catalogue was available online at the Magic Millions website and would be available on the day at the sales complex. Selling kicks away at 11am (SA time). "Local industry members just can't afford to miss it," Brown summed up. QUALITY
ENTRIES ROLL IN FOR ADELAIDE SALE Sunday week's Magic Millions Adelaide Mixed Thoroughbred Sale is shaping up nicely with almost 200 entries already received. To be conducted at the Morphettville selling auditorium, the sale will provide great opportunities for buyers looking to expand their thoroughbred interests. The 179 entries already received for the auction comprise of horses of all ages from precocious weanlings to proven stakes producing broodmares. Magic Millions' South Australian manager Tim Brown said he was thrilled with the interest from breeders and vendors around the state. "There will be a great line up of horses going under the hammer," Brown said. "The response has been overwhelming." Brown said if demand continued from locals there could be as many four mixed thoroughbreds held in Adelaide each year aside from the annual famous Yearling Sales. More details on the sale will be released within the next week and the list of entries will be soon available on the Magic Millions website. For more information on the sale contact the Adelaide office of Magic Millions on (08) 8297 8055. RECORDS
SMASHED AS MADONNA MAKES $2.7M Champion race mare Divine Madonna has made a Magic Millions record price of $2.7 million at the National Broodmare Sale on the Gold Coast. The four time Group One winner brought the sales complex to a standstill when she entered the ring at approximately 12.40pm. A few minutes later she left the ring with the state and all time Magic Millions record having been knocked down to Bill Mitchell, bidding on behalf of Darley Australia. John Sunderland, the stud manager of Darley, said the mare would be one the jewels of their outstanding broodmare band. "It's obviously a lot of money, but we're delighted to be able to buy her." "It's very hard to be able to get mares of her quality and accordingly you have to spend a lot to buy them." Sunderland said no decision had yet been made as to which stallion Divine Madonna would visit in her initial season at stud this spring. "We'll just get her home and then sit down and work things out from there," Sunderland added. Mark Kavanagh, the man who purchased Divine Madonna as a yearling from the Adelaide Yearling Sale and trained her throughout her illustrious career, had some mixed emotions. "I am a bit (sad), but it opens another chapter to her life and now we can look forward to her producing quality offspring." "We're delighted with the price - not often you can turn $80,000 into $2.7 million - and grab another two (million) along the way." "And with my wife being a part owner it makes me feel a lot better!" "It's been a memorable ride - and as they say, while one door closes another will open." Divine Madonna, by Hurricane Sky and from the top producing Prego mare My Madonna, won eight races and earned over $2 million during a glittering racetrack career. She is best remembered for her group one wins in an Emirates Stakes, Toorak Handicap, Myer Classic and Queen of the Turf Stakes. GOOD
TIMES AHEAD FOR LINDSAY PARK Lindsay Park Stud and Magali Farms have entered a partnership that will see proven young sire Good Journey (Nureyev – Chimes of Freedom) shuttle between South Australia and the USA. The Group One winning son of Nureyev will re-commence his Southern Hemisphere duties at Lindsay Park Stud in the upcoming 2008 stud season after having stood privately for four seasons at Ealing Park before being purchased by Magali Farms in California. With his oldest progeny now 3YO’s Good Journey’s has produced 10 winners from only 13 runners in his first crop of 23 live foals. Included in his first crop are Group One winner Grand Journey (ex Grand Prospect) and Group Two winner Sound Journey (ex Written By Sound). Sound Journey won the G2 Alistair Clark Stakes (1600m) after having won his first three starts and running fourth in the G3 VRC CS Hayes Stakes. He subsequently ran fourth in the Group One VRC Guineas. Grand Journey is currently third favorite for the AJC Oaks after having collected the G2 WA Oaks and G1 WA Derby double. Bred along the same lines as Champion Sire Redoute’s Choice (they share Best In Show as their fourth dam) Good Journey hails from one of the most celebrated families in the international stud book. He is by champion sire of sires Nureyev out of multiple Gr. One winner Chimes of Freedom (by Private Account). His second dam Aviance is also a Gr. One winner and dam of four time Gr. One winner Denon as well as the dam of Spinning World. Good Journey’s half brother is Champion USA Sprinter, triple Gr. One winner and sire Aldebaran (by Mr Prospector). As a racehorse Good Journey was as classy as he was consistent being placed 15 times in 16 starts (7 wins, 5 seconds, 3 thirds). His wins included the Gr. One Woodbine Mile along with three other wins at Group Two level. He ran third behind Domedriver and Rock of Gibraltar in the Group One Breeders Cup Mile and was placed at Group level over a mile on another two occasions. He competed exclusively on turf. After having been purchased by Magali Farms in 2006 Good Journey covered 80 mares in California in 2007 and is in the process of covering another 75 mares this season. In the deal brokered by Adelaide Bloodstock Agent Adrian Hancock, Lindsay Park Stud has purchased 50% of Good Journey with Magali Farms and partners retaining 50%. “Our partnership will see Good Journey shuttle between our farms for as long as he is fit and fertile and we look forward to providing him with every opportunity to build upon this most impressive start to his stud career,” explained Magali Farms Proprietor Richard Sulpizio. Lindsay Park Stud boss Sam Hayes was delighted to have secured Good Journey in partnership with the team at Magali Farms. “In developing a roster of commercial stallions we could not have hoped for a better credentialed addition than Good Journey and to be doing so in partnership with Magali Farms is an added bonus. “I would encourage breeders to take a look at his pedigree and race record and seriously consider the potential of a stallion that has produced a Group One winner and a Group Two winner from only 13 runners in his first crop,” Sam Hayes explained. Good Journey will stand for $18,000 inc. GST at Lindsay Park Stud in 2008. LINDSAY PARK STUD ROSTER – 2008 Good
Journey
$18,000 inc. GST Fraar is standing privately in season 2008. Lindsay Park Stud release NATIONAL
SALE COUP: MADONNA FOR MILLIONS One of the world's great racemares - the mighty Divine Madonna - will go under the hammer at June's Magic Millions National Broodmare Sale on the Gold Coast. The daughter of Hurricane Sky, a four time Group One winner, was retired last week after suffering a muscle injury that cut shut her last racetrack preparation. Purchased as a yearling from the Adelaide Yearling Sale by Mark Kavanagh, Divine Madonna established herself as one of the great Australian mares of the modern era - earning over $2 million from just 26 starts. "She was an absolute delight to train," Kavanagh said today. "Not only a sensational racehorse, she was a real stable favourite." "She's got the most wonderful temperament and she'll make the perfect broodmare," he added. The mare will be offered at the auction by one of Australia's most historic and successful thoroughbred outfits Widden Stud. Widden's Antony Thompson said he was delighted to be entrusted with the valuable broodmare prospect. "We're honoured to be able to present the mare on behalf of her owners at the sale," he said. "She joins a quality draft of fillies and mares who will be heading north for the National Sale." "She will be without doubt the best race filly or mare to be offered in Australia this year," Thompson added. "An outstanding mare who captured the imagination of racegoers." "Her strong finishes were incredible to watch," he summed up. Magic Millions managing director David Chester was delighted to learn the star mare would be gracing the Gold Coast sale ring in June. "She's the mare of the year," Chester said. "We're honoured to be able to get her back to sell to the public as a broodmare after originally selling her as a yearling in Adelaide." "There would be no better mare being offered at auction anywhere in the world this year than Divine Madonna." "She's a four time Group One winner and she possessed the most paralysing finishing burst I've probably ever seen in a racehorse." "Her sale will be one of the most anticipated thoroughbred auction events ever." Divine Madonna is one of two Group winners from the top producing Pergo mare My Madonna. A three time winner in her own right, My Madonna is also the dam of the Group Three Standish Handicap winner Blessum - a seven time winner of over $450,000. Maduro, another of Divine Madonna's half brothers, notched up yet another city win in Adelaide on Saturday. He's now won eleven races and earned a tick under a quarter of a million dollars. Divine Madonna is just one of the many stand out entries for the Magic Millions National Broodmare Sale. Many dozens of stakes mares have been entered for the auction which will be held from June 2-6. "This sale is now firmly established as the number one breeding stock sale of the Southern Hemisphere," Chester commented. "The weanling and yearlings sale components to the National Sale have assembled some truly outstanding entries as well." Magic Millions release ADELAIDE
YEARLING SALE COMES TO A CLOSE The 2008 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale drew to a close on Wednesday night when the traditional third value session of the sale was held at Morphettville. Astute buyers, from local areas and interstate, were in big numbers - picking their favourites from a lovely assortment of likely racehorses. All up tonight some $706,000 changed hands on 83 yearlings at an impressive average price of over $8,500 and healthy clearance rate of over 76 per cent. The top price of the night came early on when the Northern Territorian outfit Larrem Lodge went to $28,000 for a colt by Desert King. Aquanita went to $26,000 to secure a well sought after colt by Face Value who will be heading to their new WA trainer Simon Miller. Magic Millions managing director David Chester said tonight's session gave trainers, particularly those from country areas, the chance to pick up a yearling for their stable. "We had buyers from around South Australia - from Ceduna in the west to Mount Gambier in the south east - it really was a happy hunting ground for trainers seeking value." "I was particularly pleased to see so many interstate buyers at the sale and bidding for the yearlings that caught their eye." One of busiest buyers of the night was Washpool Lodge's Kevin Thomas. He signed for six yearlings which are set to be prepared for the Gold Coast Horses in Training Sale in October. Other interstate trainers buying tonight included Shane Clarke, David Noonan, Lawrie Mayfield-Smith, Quinton Scott, Jason Petch, Michael Templeton and William Cerchi. One familiar name in the results was Morphettville trainer Leon Macdonald. The man who took all before all him at the track with the big MM double earlier in the day picked up a colt by Real Jester for just $2,000. The Magic Millions focus now turns straight to the Gold Coast where from Easter Monday (March 22) the world's eyes will be on the famous Bundall sales complex. Over 1,800 yearlings have been catalogued for the Conrad Jupiters Magic Millions Yearling Sale - at the only sale in Australia that has something for everyone - something for everyone's budget. "It's the thoroughbred sale that can't be missed," Chester said. "It's the sale place of proven champions and this year's catalogue is without doubt our best ever." "Whether you have $1,000 to spend or $2,000,000 - we can make the promise there is something for you!" Magic Millions release MACDONALD'S
PAIR HEADING TO GOLD COAST AFTER ROMPS The Gold Coast beckons for the two Leon Macdonald trained stars Augusta Proud and Tosstestaroan who swept away with both Magic Millions feature races at Morphettville today. Macdonald, a long time buyer from Magic Millions, experienced one of his biggest days when by winning the races which carried a combined purse of $600,000. "What a great day," the Morphettville horseman beamed after Tosstestaroan completed the double in the $200,000 R.M.Williams Magic Millions 3YO Trophy (1600m). The win of Tosstestaroan followed Augusta Proud's sensational all the win in the $400,000 Schweppes Magic Millions 2YO Classic (1200m) just over an hour earlier. No sooner after booking Augusta Proud on a trip to the Gold Coast for the $4 million plus raceday, Macdonald was arranging for stablemate Tosstestaroan to go on the same adventure. "They'll both head up to Queensland," Macdonald confirmed. "They are in great form and deserve their chance in the big Magic Millions races." Augusta Proud, raced by a group of Port Augusta mates headed by former Olympian Kerry O'Brien, made if five wins from five starts with her dashing win in today's juvenile classic. "She's just been a great improver," Macdonald said of the unbeaten filly. "In her first trial she went okay, without looking a real star." "But she's really come on since. Each start she has improved and she keeps stepping up - it's very exciting." At the post in today's 2YO Classic, Augusta Proud ($1.70 fav) held a length and three quarter margin over Melbourne visitor Complete Control ($17), while local Lonhro colt Shadrach ($14) flashed home for third, another two and three quarter lengths back. Pizzicato ($41) was the best of the finishes of David Hayes' four runners - the son of Piccolo running fourth ahead of Tasmanian MM Classic winner Super Confident ($5.50). Meanwhile, Tosstestaroan followed up his last start Adelaide Guineas victory with a brilliant all the way win in the $200,000 3YO Trophy (1600m). The son of Testa Rossa, a $41,000 buy from the 2006 Adelaide Sale, was sent to the front early by Clare Lindop and from there he was never headed. When Lindop asked the gelding to quicken on straightening the likely type dashed clear of his rivals for an emphatic win. At the post Tosstestaroan ($1.90 fav) was two and a quarter lengths in front of last year's MM Adelaide 2YO Classic winner Truly Beautiful ($6). David Hayes' La Viscomtessa ($8) was third, another length and three quarter lengths from the runner-up. "It was a great ride from Clare and he is a very honest galloper," Macdonald said of Tosstestaroan. "He deserves his chance on the Gold Coast as well," he added. As well as being a triumph for Macdonald and Lindop the results of the MM races was a perfect two for two for Vinery Stud. Augusta Proud is a daughter of leading sire More Than Ready, while Tosstestaroan, as his name suggests, is a son of Testa Rossa. Magic Millions release
SELLING ACTION ROLLS ON
IN ADELAIDE The value thoroughbred shoppers were back in force at Morphettville on Tuesday when the second session of the Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale was conducted. The clearance rate picked up overall as buyers competed for a great range of likely racetrack performers. Today yearlings sold for prices from $2,000 to over $100,000 and almost everywhere in between. The figures from today's session helped pushed the two day sale aggregate to over $5.25 million. Magic Millions managing director David Chester said while figures were down from last year's auction it was unfair to compare the figures. "This year's catalogue is obviously much weaker than usual," Chester said. "EI created big problems with most interstate vendors not entering yearlings because of travel restrictions which continued to well after the entries closed." "A number of the top local yearlings were also interstate at the time of entry and were picked up by sales in other states including this month's Conrad Jupiters Magic Millions Yearling Sale on the Gold Coast," he added. "For the overall clearance rate to jump to 72 per cent was pleasing and that's the barometer in this case." The top price today came when leading Melbourne based bloodstock agent Mark Pilkington went to $120,000 to secure a well bred and conformed filly from the first crop of yearling by Face Value. Just a handful of minutes later that price was almost eclipsed when the Mugharreb half brother to Monday's debuting stakes winner Elysees was purchased by Kennewell Racing for $110,000. The bargain shoppers will be back at the famous Morphettville sales ring on Wednesday night to compete for an impressive line up of yearlings during the third summer session. A number of high class gallopers are graduates from this sale over the years and organisers are confident they are plenty more in this year's line up. In between now and then the action will swing to the neighbouring Morphettville racetrack which will host the two feature Magic Millions races. SALE
STATISTICS Lots
Sold: 200 Magic Millions release
ELYSEES' TIMELY
DEBUTING STAKES WIN Exciting youngster Elysees made the best possible start to her racetrack career with a timely win in the listed Pewsey Vale Stakes (1050m) at Morphettville yesterday. A daughter of Statue of Liberty and a $50,000 graduate of last year's Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale, Elysees showed she was a youngster with a future with her dominant victory. Prepared at the track by Jon O'Connor, Elysees tracked the leaders throughout before bursting to the front in the straight and racing home for a two and a quarter length win. Arrival, a four length winner at her only prior run in Victoria, was second, while the favourite and stakes proven Viennese was third, a further three parts of a length. "It was a really impressive win," O'Connor, a former top jockey, said. "She really finished off the race strongly." O'Connor hadn't originally planned to run the filly in the listed event. "We were wanting to get her ready for the Magic Millions (2YO Classic, run Wednesday)," O'Connor pointed out. "But she had just a little set back and we had to hold off until today to give her her first start." "It's an excellent effort to win a listed race at her first start and we hope it will be followed by plenty more." A half sister to O'Connor's former Adelaide Guineas winner Blahnik, Elysees is another smart performer for the stakes winning King's High mare Gift Bouquet. Her latest yearling, an attractive chestnut colt by Mugharreb, will go under the hammer later today as lot number 183 at the Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale. He is being offered at the auction by Alistair and Pat McFarlane's Tori Park Stud - the Balhannah based nursery responsible for recent stakes winners including Hollow Bullet, Red Hot Mama and Blahnik. The second session of the Adelaide Sale kicks away at 11am (SA time) today. Magic Millions release VALUE
SHOPPERS OUT IN FORCE AT MORPHETTVILLE Quality yearlings were the subject of strong interest at tonight's first session of the Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale at Morphettville. A large buying bench was on hand to compete for youngsters during the opening session and they would have been thrilled with the value for money buying. During the session $2.166 million changed hands on 66 yearlings at an average price of $32,818. "While disappointed with the clearance rate of 65.4 per cent, I thought the session was pleasing," Magic Millions managing director David Chester said. "Considering the yearlings we've got to sell, I think the session had some good positives." Chester said buyers knew they could come to the Morphettville sale and find a potential racetrack star. "Each year new stakes stars graduate from the Adelaide ring," he commented. "Three of the stakes winners at Morphettville today were local buys - including the Adelaide Cup winner Lacey Underall." "Divine Madonna, Mummify, Devil Moon, Augusta Proud, Young Centaur, Spin Around, Casino Prince - we could keep going - but they're all Adelaide Sale graduates." "The quality, well bred, conformed and presented yearlings were the subject of strong interest and those yearlings all easily exceeded their reserve prices." Topping the session at $160,000 was a filly by Coolmore's leading shuttle sire Galileo. Offered at the sale by perennial Adelaide Sale vendor leaders Mill Park Stud, the filly was purchased by leading Morphettville horseman Leon Macdonald. Macdonald on Wednesday will saddle up Augusta Proud and Tosstestaroan in the respective Magic Millions feature races - two more impressive Adelaide Sale graduates. Another big winner from buying at the Adelaide Sale - Flemington's Mark Kavanagh was back hunting for quality buys from the Morphettville ring. Tonight he snapped up two likely types - a colt by Danzero (ex Violet Tints) for $120,000 and a filly by Blevic (ex Sunday Shoes) for $105,000. "Both were lovely types and I'm hoping they can race on with great success in the coming couple of seasons," Kavanagh noted. The second session of the sale will kick away at 11am (SA time) tomorrow. "I'm looking forward to tomorrow's second session," Chester said. "I feel a number of the better yearlings in the sale will go under the hammer tomorrow." "This sale is the value sale of the country - where else can you buy such bright prospects so cheaply." "The SA breds are renowned for their toughness and durability - I'm sure buyers from this year's sale will be thrilled with their purchases." Magic Millions release SA
BRED FILLY SELLS WELL IN PERTH The incredible run by the progeny of Darley's young Danehill sire Exceed and Excel rolled on to the sale ring in Perth today when one of his daughters sold for a new top price of $310,000. The star offering of a quality draft from South Australia's Kambula Stud attracted an opening bid of $50,000. Her price quickly skipped to six figures and after passing $200,000 she was the subject of a spirited bidding duel between Newmarc's Troy Corstens and Belmont Bloodstock's Damon Gabbedy. When David Chester dropped the gavel it was Corstens' bid that was the top offering. "She's a cracking filly," Corstens said. "Very correct, and by the sire who everyone's talking about." "She looks a real runner." "We knew we'd have to pay a decent price for her - but she's worth it. The Exceed and Excels will sell for big money this year," Corstens added. "Peter (Carrick), who is establishing Grange Thoroughbreds in Victoria, is looking at building up an impressive broodmare band." The filly, catalogued as lot number 267, is from the former top class Perth juvenile Magic Heaven, a daughter of Magic Ring. Today's offering was the second yearling by Exceed and Excel sold at the Perth Yearling Sale. During the opening session on Friday a filly from the stakes winning mare Vintage Dance was purchased by Slade Bloodstock for $190,000. The third session of the sale continues. MADONNA
IS HORSE OF THE YEAR AGAIN Outstanding mare Divine Madonna was tonight for the second straight year been crowned the Malaysia Airlines South Australian Horse of the Year. The annual SATB awards were presented at a glittering awards night at Morphettville Junction. A full list of award recipients follows: Malaysia
Airlines Horse of the Year Magic Millions
Leading Stallion Robert Sangster
Memorial Leading 2YO Sire Newmarket
Insurance Brokers Leading First Season Sire Claude Haigh
Memorial Broodmare of the Year Nexus Print
Solutions Breeder of Leading 2YO Mitavite
Breeder of Leading 3YO Yalumba
Breeders of Group One Winners Collier
International Award SA Leading Breeder JG Goldner
Matrice Award WAS
YOUR MARE NOT SERVED IN 2007? A reminder to lodge Not Served mare returns as soon as possible. This information is important as it will assist us to collate essential industry statistics on the impact of Equine Influenza. The fee is $44.00 but a 5% discount is applicable to all mare returns completed Online. Payment options include credit card or cheque. If your mare has died or you have retired her from breeding, please advise us to enable her records to be closed. This can be completed Online by logging onto the home page and selecting the 'Online Services' / 'Lodge Mare Return' header. User Guides are available in the 'General Information' / 'Rules and Services' header. Please contact the ASB team if you require any assistance on 02-9663 8411. GOLDEN GELDING
A BUNDLE OF JOY Adelaide gelding Bundle O' Gold notched his first stakes success and landed one of the plunges of the day at Caulfield when he scored a tough win in the $100,500 listed Zeditave Stakes (1200m). The gelding, born, bred and trained at Murray Bridge, made it back to back wins in Melbourne with a stylish all the way victory in the feature stakes event for three-year-olds. He made an immediate impact on the Victorian racing scene when he crossed the SA/Vic border for the first time a fortnight ago. On that occasion he led for much of the journey and was strong to the line, beating home the (then) last start Sydney winner Moonboat. Back to Caulfield again today he was back at it again. He again jumped straight on the bunny and would not be headed again. This time around at Caulfield Bundle O' Gold ($4.60-$6-$4 fav) got home to beat Lord Monty ($12-$15) by a half neck. Third placegetter El Mandon ($5-$6.50) was another short head back in third place. "He always seems to be travelling so well in his races," winning trainer Paul Seater said after the win. "But he was going along at pretty quick sectionals - so it was a good win." "He was probably entitled to weaken a bit (near the finish), but he's got plenty of guts and he toughed it out." Seater said he was not behind the plunge which saw the flashy gelding jump the favourite in a strong and competitive event. "I part own the horse and we bred him, so it means a lot," Seater said after the race. "We've got a yearling gelding by Niello and a little Keep the Faith colt on the ground." "We also own the mare (Bundle O' Gold's dam Thanks a Bundle), so it's all good," he added. Winning rider Dwayne Dunn said he was impressed with the performance of the gelding by Oakside Park Stud stallion Devaraja. "I have had a lot of luck at this track and it's nice to win another stakes race, particularly with a South Australian connection," Dunn said. "I think he's still got a lot to learn - there's plenty of improvement in him and I'm sure he'll be winning plenty more races." "He's not a one dimensional horse either," Dunn continued. "He can settle in behind horses if that's what's needed." Seater said Bundle O' Gold could now return to Adelaide for a pair of feature races as that city's carnival kicks away. "The plan before today's race was to go back and run in the Redelva (Stakes) and Yallambee Classic," Seater noted. "I guess we'll just sit back and see how he pulls up and work it out from there," he added. "His dam was able to win to about 1450 metres, so he might be able to get a little further." "But we won't be rushing him at this stage." Sue Seater bred Bundle O' Gold from her Danewin mare, Thanks A Bundle, a three quarter sister to handy galloper, stakes placed Diamond Jake. Thanks A Bundle is out of the County mare Bundle Of Thanks, winner of the AJC Widden Stakes at Listed level. The family also boasts Group 3 stakes winner Darbaas. YOUNG
CENTAUR SMASHES RIVALS IN GROUP ONE The golden run of Magic Millions graduates in New Zealand rolled on today with tough stayer Young Centaur winning the NZ$350,000 Group One Wellington Cup (3200m) at Trentham in New Zealand today. With a stunning burst, the son of Jeune raced clear of his rivals in the straight and cruised home for the easiest of wins. At the post Young Centaur had two and three quarter lengths to spare over runner-up Resolution, while Mirkola Lass was another half length back in third place. The favourite
Pasta Post - chasing eight wins from nine starts - wound up in tenth place
for the Sanders stable. Young Centaur was purchased by trainer John Sargent for a mere $11,000 from the 2004 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale. Since then the gelding has raced on just 22 occasions for seven wins and four second placings and stakes earnings of over $350,000. Winning rider Michael Walker, who also won the Cup in 2001 aboard Smiling Like, said his horse was bolting during the race and the only problem was when he would release the brakes. "I had a handful of horse throughout," Walker said. "It was just a matter of when I wanted to go." "I had (favourite) Pasta Post on the inside of me, so I pocketed him, shutting him out of the race, as I thought he was the one to beat, then I kicked away." "A huge thrill," he continued. "John Sargent was the one who made me so confident, because he was." "It was huge mate, huge!" Young Centaur, bred and sold by South Australia's famed Lindsay Park Stud, is one of two winners from the beautifully bred Centaine mare Centafit. Unraced, Centafit is a full sister to Hong Kong Derby winner Super Fit (was Centalong in Australia) and a three quarter sister to both the stakes performer Cent Dancing as well as the dam of dual Avondale Gold Cup winner Regal Krona. A former resident at Lindsay Park Stud before transferring to Collingrove in Victoria where he died prematurely, Jeune made his name as a top sire after retiring from the track. All three of his Group One winners - Mummify, True Steel and Young Centaur - were all purchased as yearlings at the Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale. COZZY'S GRAND
PLAN OF GROUP ONE DUELS Classy Adelaide gelding Grand Duels will be set for the Group One Lightning Stakes after giving his rivals a "licking" in today's listed $101,000 RDA Victoria Stakes (1100m) at Flemington. Prepared by veteran Morphettville horseman Byron Cozamanis, Grand Duels sat just off the speed toward the outside fence before coming home brilliantly for an emphatic victory. They say winning form is good form. And Cozamanis is going to put the saying to test by setting his sprinting charge to reach racing's elite level. Will he be heading to the Group One Lightning Stakes (1000m) at Flemington in February? "Yes," Cozamanis answered matter-of-factly. "That's the plan at this stage anyway." "It was a very good win," he added. "I was a bit worried there for a little while with his tongue hanging out, but he went really good." Cozamanis said the gelding has always shown ability and early on he knew he was very much above average. He's missed a cheque just once in his 10 starts. "It was Moonee Valley (when he failed)," Cozamanis pointed out. "He just didn't handle it." He said Grand Duels relishes being able to run down a straight track and with the Lightning also run at Flemington he said that Group One race would be a logical step. "He used to hit his legs pretty bad," Cozamanis pointed out. "The straight (track) is much better for him." Cozamanis said the gelding's breeder and owners, Millicent couple Peter and Heather Burdon, had allowed him to be patient with the son of Marechal. They are certainly all now reaping the rewards. "The owners have been pretty patient. We've spaced his races and he's done pretty well." At the post in today's listed event it was Grand Duels ($5-$6-$5.50) who was a length and three quarters ahead of his nearest rival, Danny O'Brien's La Chasseuse ($8-$10). Third home was Seafarer ($9-$11), for Craig Williams and David Hayes, another three parts of a length back. The favourite Bel Mer ($2.60-$3-$2.70 fav) faded over the concluding stages to run fourth, a further long neck back. Grand Duels, who is by Danzero's stakes winning son Marechal, is a half brother to the Kilmore Cup winner Tszyu, a classy performer over a number of seasons for the Corstens stable at Kilmore. AUSTRALIAN
HORSE INDUSTRIES BACK ON TRACK The equine influenza (horse flu) outbreak in Australia is currently contained and is on track for early eradication. Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Andy Carroll said that due to successful control programs undertaken by New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland (QLD) veterinary authorities, the actions of Australian horse industries and individual horse owners, the disease is contained and large populations of horses have fully recovered. "Since reaching a high of some ten thousand infected premises in October/November last year, we now have less than one thousand infected premises indicating that our strategy in combating the disease has been highly successful," Dr Carroll said. The number of infected premises is continuing to rapidly decrease with no new detections of the disease reported since December 22. "This success, and the use of vaccination, has allowed non-risk horses to move more freely to participate in events around Australia. This is a great development in getting our horse industry and horse sports back on track," Dr Carroll said. The Australian racing industry has worked closely with health authorities and welcomes this announcement. "The current trends are exactly what we have all been working to achieve – EI in Australia has been contained and we are now moving very quickly towards total eradication. One of the results of this is that we can be confident that the transport protocols that have already been successful to date are likely to be further eased within the next four weeks." Importantly, the Australian racing industry has announced that yearling sales will go ahead, offering a large selection of quality horses, as per previous years. "2008 starts on an excellent note for the Australian racing industry with all of the major sales and racing events traditionally scheduled for the first half of the year now allocated new dates and set to proceed under full steam. Obviously there will be biosecurity precautions, but these will be sensible and manageable, causing the minimum possible amount of inconvenience to both vendors and purchasers. They are certainly not of a nature that should deter anybody from participating. I am also extremely pleased to be able to say that the quality of the lots will compare very favourably with other years" Bob Pearson, Chairman, Australian Racing Board. Arrangements for the re-opening of Australia’s export market are progressing with Biosecurity Australia and the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service negotiating conditions with Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Iran, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. Macau has provided amended conditions for the importation of horses and the Philippines have agreed to conditions for horses purchased at the Magic Millions and William Inglis sales. Negotiations with the Philippines on arrangements that will allow for wider sourcing of horses within Australia are continuing. The United States, United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland and the Republic of Korea continue to import horses from Australia in accordance with conditions in place prior to the outbreak. Dr Carroll said that while the control of the outbreak is good news for all horse enthusiasts, adherence to biosecurity and movement restriction arrangements are still the keys to successfully eradicating the disease. "We are winning the battle against the disease and we are increasingly optimistic that horse flu will be eradicated much earlier than previously expected. Dr Carroll said. MERLOT'S EGO
BOOSTED WITH ANOTHER STAKES WIN Adelaide foes Merlot Now and Exalted Ego were at it again at Morphettville today when they fought out the finish of the feature race at Morphettville, the listed $50,000 Classic Mile (1600m). The two evergreen middle distance performers have raced against each other on a number of occasions and three times in the past four months they have quinellaed a stakes event in South Australia. First it was Merlot Now who made it back to back stakes wins with a victory over Exalted Ego in the listed Murray Bridge Gold Cup in mid-October. Exalted Ego gained his revenge at their next meeting about three weeks later in the listed Elder Stakes at Morphettville. And this afternoon it was the turn of Merlot Now to exact revenge with a strong finishing half length victory in the Classic Mile. In doing so he sent his earnings past the $350,000 barrier. "They've been going at it for a fair while now," Merlot Now trainer Daryl Hewitt said moments after shaking hands with Exalted Ego's trainer Jim Smith. At the post in today's race Merlot Now ($4.40) finished a half length in front of Exalted Ego ($4.40-$3.80), while Vintrack ($11-$13) was a similar margin back in third place after hitting the front in the straight. "He'll probably have his next run in a similar sort of race here in a fortnight," Hewitt said when asked about what lay ahead for his current stable star. Michael Hoppo, best known in recent times as the former regular work rider of Fields of Omagh, was aboard Merlot Now again as the pair teamed up for their third stakes victory. Merlot Now, a son of popular Oakside Park Stud stallion Akhadan, notched up his eleventh career win today. "He's been a great old horse for us," Hewitt commented. But when asked whether his Karoonda property should be named Merlot Now Lodge, he was quick to remember his talented half brother who over a number of seasons helped Hewitt establish his training career. "Moet Now was really the horse who set me up," Hewitt, uncle of champion Australian tennis player Lleyton, said. Indeed Moet Now (Shuttlecock Corner) was a heck of a racehorse. He won 17 races from 1000 metres to 1650 metres during a career that netted the Hewitts a cool $238,330. Moet Now and Merlot Now are just two of eight winners from Hewitt's grand Francis Bacon mare Babelle. Despite not showing much on the track (she was unplaced), Babelle has proven her worth as a top producing mare. As well as Merlot Now and Moet Now, she is the dam of three other city winners including the stakes performed winner of nine Sparkling Now. Her only non winner to date Now Go, is the dam of the recent city winner Cascade Now. "She's been a marvellous old mare," Hewitt said of Babelle. "She is getting on now and she's had a bit of bad luck recently, but right now she's in foal to Bel Esprit." RECORD 1,811
YEARLINGS CATALOGUED FOR MAGIC MILLIONS A record catalogue of 1811 yearlings will make up the catalogue for Magic Millions' pin up sale - the Conrad Jupiters Magic Millions Yearling Sale - to be held this year from Easter Monday. All of Australia's and many or the world's leading and most exciting stallions will be represented by the yearling sale - regarded by many good judges as Australia's best sale. Renowned for throwing up outstanding ready made racehorses at great value prices, the sale is traditionally held in January, but this year was shifted back to the March and April dates because of the equine influenza outbreak. "The sale has attracted an outstanding selection of yearlings - and unlike others in Australia and the world - this sale is not elitist," Magic Millions Managing Director David Chester said today. "The will be yearlings to suit every buyer and with any sized budget - with youngsters to sell from a thousand or two dollars up to over a million," he added. "It's one of the few sales that can make the promise of having something for everyone." Chester said because of the record interest in the feature sale and the vast quantity of quality entries the first four sessions of the sale has been boosted to 900 yearlings for the first time. "Breeders and vendors strive to have yearlings in this section of the sale - and with so many outstanding entries it was only sensible to increase the size." "Traditionally we've had up to 700 yearlings in this section of the sale." Sires represented in this sale include proven stars Redoute's Choice, Encosta de Lago, Flying Spur, Rock of Gibraltar, Danehill Dancer, Fusaichi Pegasus, Anabaa, Red Ransom, Exceed and Excel and Elusive Quality. First season sires to debut on the Gold Coast will include Al Maher, Charge Forward, Not a Single Doubt, Elvstroem, Fastnet Rock and Shamardal. At the most recent Conrad Jupiters Yearling Sale last January yearlings sold up to $2 million and during the first four sessions averaged a record $182,191. All up last year's auction grossed a staggering $124.4 million. A comprehensive preview of the sale and carnival will be available on the Magic Millions website next week. Flying
Fillies RaceS for 2008
The South Australian Thoroughbred Breeders in partnership with sponsors Malayasia Airlines are pleased to announce the 2008 dates for their Malaysia Airlines Flying Fillies Series. Three-year-old fillies which were catalogued in the 2006 Adelaide Magic Millions sales will be eligible to receive $5,000 in air travel plus a $500 cash bonus should they win any (or all) of the following races · 19/01/08 at Morphettville over 1050m (non Metro win), · 02/02/08 at Morphettville over 1100m (1 metro win), · 16/02/08 at Cheltenham over 1250m (2 Metro wins) and · 08/03/08 at Morphettville over 1200m (open)
EQUINE
INFLUENZA BUSINESS ASSISTANCE GRANT $5000
will be available for businesses that derive the majority of their income
from the commercial horse industry, and have experienced: Detailed information about the Business Assistance Grant Equine Influenza Business Assistance Grant - Claim Form
STAKES
QUINELLA FOR AKHADAN
Oakside Stud stallion Akhadan enjoyed one of his most successful days at the racetrack when his gelded sons Jim's Party and Merlot Now provided the quinella in the Listed $50,000 SAJC OJ Smith Challenge Stakes (1800m) at Morphettville yesterday. A talented and consistent galloper Jim's Party had accumulated seven wins and nine placings prior to his victory in the $50,000 feature. He gave the impression a stakes win was within his reach when runner up to his senior counterpart Merlot Now in the John D Lee Stakes in September and it was that horse that played the supporting role yesterday. Partnered by jockey Dominic Tourneur Jim's Party led the chase up to tear away leader Saturn who at one stage led by a dozen lengths. He claimed that horse soon after straightening and kicked strongly to the line, holding out the usual strong finishing effort of Merlot Now by three quarters of a length and a gallant Exalted Ego - weighed down with 60kg - a nose away in third. Jim's Party's win brought up a daily double for Akhadan who was successful earlier in the day with the rejuvenated galloper Redadan. Now an eight-year-old Redadan made his second consecutive trip to the winners stall for new trainer Mark Minervini, after an absence of over two years. Redadan scored a breathtaking last stride win in the NHP Electrical Handicap (1100m) flying home from eighth to defeat highly rated galloper The Chunkster by a nose with Altivo one and a quarter lengths away in third. BROADER
VACCINATION APPROACH FOR EI Addressing the socio-economic impacts of equine influenza will require broader application of vaccination, the National Management Group (NMG) overseeing the disease containment and eradication response has agreed. Meeting in Melbourne to review the disease response and to consider future plans, NMG acknowledged that both the containment and eradication of the disease and mitigation of socio-economic impacts needs to be pursued in parallel. While there are differences between horse industry groups on the merits of long-term vaccination, all agreed a significantly broader approach to vaccine use is now required. This approach will be adopted where is it consistent with the current containment and eradication strategy and is to be implemented with other measures including a relaxation of some movement restrictions. The agreed strategy will involve:
Additional vaccines outside the industry/government cost-sharing deed will be obtained on the basis that costs will be recovered from industry beneficiaries. Proposals will now be sought from national industry bodies and jurisdictions for the allocation of vaccines in line with this new strategy. NMG is comprised of the Chief Executive Officers of the Commonwealth and State/Territory departments of agriculture/primary industries across Australia and also the heads of the peak bodies representing the horse industry. It is chaired by the Secretary of the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Dr Conall O'Connell. TOORAK
TRIO STRIKE GOLD AGAIN WITH SERIOUS SPEED The impact of South Aussies on the Melbourne Spring Carnival rolled on at Caulfield today when Serious Speed's rise reached a Group One peak in the Thousand Guineas (1600m). With dual state trainer Mark Kavanagh sweeping up a number of Group One races in recent week, most Victorian trainers have been sniffing around the track for their chance. Today it was the turn of long time Morphettville trainer Leon Macdonald to add a Group One win to his tally (now nine). The win continued a great run for three South Australian mates who breed under the banner of Toorak Park Stud - Harry Perks, Trevor Robertson and Rod Fairclough. Perks, Robertson and Fairclough have bred and raced a number of outstanding stakes horses over recent years. The Toorak Park operation have bred (and in many cases raced) the likes of St Clemens Belle, Devil Moon, Proprietor, Undoubtedly, Will Fly, Sanziro, Flying Object, Toorak Thunder and of course Serious Speed. Perks, currently overseas - somewhere around Prague, also bred and raced the team of gurus - Gold Guru, Gallant Guru and Glitzy Guru. With Perks overseas and Fairclough not on track, the cheering was left to Trevor Robertson. "We've got about 25 mares at the moment," Robertson confirmed. "We breed to sell and we keep a few - thankfully we kept this one." "Her dam (Twitter) is getting on now and we were looking at keeping a daughter and Royal Academy (her sire) has been pretty good to us." "That win was just fantastic - she's still lightly raced and she looks very promising." Connections had to pay a $27,500 late entry to get Serious Speed into today's race after she was originally not entered for any of Melbourne's spring features. "She's always shown ability but five weeks ago she was only winning her maiden at Murray Bridge," Leon Macdonald said. "She's come a long way in a short time." Provided she pulls up well, the promising three-year-old filly will head to the Victoria Oaks, where another $55,000 late entry fee will be required. "Why wouldn't we?" Macdonald said when asked about the prospects of Serious Speed heading to the VRC Oaks. In between time she would most probably run in the Group Two Wakeful Stakes (2000m) at Flemington on Derby Day. Serious Speed is another success story for Meningie (SA) thoroughbred nursery, Mill Park. Operated by Peter and Serena Watson, Mill Park's other spring graduates include the likes of Devil Moon, Divine Madonna and Princess Coup. All of the Toorak Park horses are raised and prepared at Mill Park as was Princess Coup, the recent winner of New Zealand's richest ever race - the $2 million Kelt Capital Stakes. Serious Speed is one of five winners from the stakes winning Kendor mare Twitter. During a short career, Twitter proved her class by winning the listed HC Nitschke Stakes at Morphettville. As well as Serious Speed, she has thrown the city winners Classic Status (dam of group performed Victory Chant) and Chickadee. Twitter is in turn a daughter of the stakes winner - the Sir Tristram mare Palace News. Palace News is a half sister to Te Akau Toy - the dam of triple Group One winner March Hare - a winner of over $1.1 million. Story courtesy of www.virtualformguide.com MADONNA
CONTINUES MARK'S DIVINE RUN Divine Madonna brought up Mark Kavanagh's third individual Group 1 winner in a week when she took out today's Toorak Handicap at Caulfield. Perfectly ridden by Michael Rodd, Divine Madonna got onto the back of Bon Hoffa, which made its run at the 600m mark. Unlike her run in the Rupert Clarke Stakes at her last start, when Rodd gave Bon Hoffa too much start and was unable to run him down in spite of a faster final sectional, Divine Madonna was much closer this time. "I probably let her get back a bit too far but she still finished the race off just perfect", Rodd said upon returning to scale. "I was very confident coming to the turn that I'd run them down". Divine Madonna ($4.20-$5.00-$4.80) hit the front at the 200m mark and withstood a late challenge by three quarters of a length from Niconero ($6.00-$7.00), after heading off Wonderful World ($4.00-$4.40-$4.20EF), which led into the straight. Bon Hoffa ($4.00-$4.40-$4.20EF) weakened to run fourth, suggesting that 1400m is about as far as he wants to go. Kavanagh now has an embarrassment of riches as he considers which of the rich Spring plums he can pluck with his three Group 1 horses, Maldivian, Devil Moon and Divine Madonna. "This is my best day on a racetrack but let's not go there just yet", said Kavanagh when asked if Divine Madonna would join stable mate Devil Moon in the Cox Plate. Although Maldivian is highly favoured to start in the $2.5 million Group 1 Caulfield Cup next week, there is still a possibility that Kavanagh could run him in the $3 million Group 1 WS Cox Plate a week later. Kavanagh considers all options on the table at present, pointing out to the press that this year is highly unusual in that interstate and international contenders for the Spring Carnival races are absent. With a more or less fixed pool of horses now in Melbourne for the Spring, in recent weeks the Kavanagh trio loom head and shoulders above the rest in terms of consistency and dominance. He has the luxury of picking and choosing which races he runs in knowing that he can win against most of the opposition out there, having beaten them already. Kavanagh's biggest problem is deciding whether to double up in some races such as the Cox Plate to ensure a greater chance of victory, or be very daring and spread his team around the top races, trying to win as many of them as he can. Divine Madonna has been an incredible money spinner for connections after being picked up for just $82,500 at the 2004 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale at Morphettville. Her record now reads out at seven wins and seven placings from just 23 starts with her prizemoney now soaring past $1.6 million. Magic Millions release DEVIL
MOON SHINES IN TURNBULL Devil Moon roared into contention for the $2.5 million Group 1 Caulfield Cup with her win in the Group 1 Turnbull Stakes at Flemington this afternoon. Bookmaker Eskander's Betstar slashed her price for the Cup, in which she is now guaranteed a start, to $7.00 from $17 but also made her top chance for the $3 million Group 1 WS Cox Plate at odds of $9.00. In the process, she confused her trainer, Mark Kavanagh, who had not even entered the mare for the Cox Plate. If he decides to go that way, connections will need to pay a $110,000 late entry fee. "I don't know what to do", said Kavanagh after the race, "but I reckon after the fourth bottle of Moet tonight I'll have it all plotted out." Substitute jockey Corey Brown is in no doubt about which way Kavanagh should go, quipping "go for the Cox Plate, I've already got a Caulfield Cup ride." Brown scored a lucky ride on Devil Moon after Hugh Bowman had to relinquish the mount due to food poisoning. "I'll bet he's sicker than what he was", said Brown upon returning to scale. Most of the winners on the day were coming from well back in the field, which gave Brown some concerns in the race. "I was a little bit worried early because I know she's an on pace runner", he said. "Everything all day has come from mid or the tail of the field so I was a little bit concerned but when we backed off the tempo near the 1200m I was rapt with the run that she had." Brown, who had ridden Devil Moon once before in Adelaide for a nose second place in the Redelva Stakes in February, was impressed with the grit she showed in winning. "She's very very tough and she showed that today", he said. "Although she carried no weight she traveled really well." "Coming to the home turn I got going on her because we hadn't done a great deal up in front and to her credit she dug very deep and attacked the line nicely." Under her minimum weight of 54kg, she was able to steal a break on her heavier weighted opponents at the top of the straight and held out Scenic Shot ($101) by a long head on the line. Third was the gallant Haradasun ($5.00-$3.90F) who stuck on well, while the much improved Douro Valley franked the form of Devil Moon's stablemate Maldivian by running fourth. Disappointing was Marasco ($5.50-$7.00-$6.50) which ran second last and Efficient ($5.50-$8.50) which ran eleventh. Regardless of which way Kavanagh decides to head with Devil Moon she is already a Group 1 winner. And with earnings of over $830,000 she is turning out as one of the great bargains of the Australian turf - she could have been yours for a mere $30,000 at the 2004 Magic Millions Yearling Sale at the Gold Coast. Even when she started racing, Kavanagh could hardly have imagined that he had a Group 1 winner on his hands. "She got beaten in a Balaklava maiden first up - heavily backed", he recalled with a laugh, remembering that his stable was responsible for the losing plunge. He is fully aware of how far she has come even during this preparation, which saw her run seventh first up in the Group 3 Cockram Stakes restricted to mares. "It's always hard to jump from mares only grade", he said. "To see an awesome win like that against the weight for age champs is just fantastic." "She makes her own luck and that's always a great attribute." "She just doesn't lay down. She's a good girl." Magic Millions release PRINCESS
COUP CAPTURES NZ'S RICHEST EVER RACE Princess Coup's price has been slashed for this month's Caulfield Cup after a barnstorming last stride win in New Zealand's richest ever race - the $2 million Group One Kelt Capital Stakes (2040m) at Hastings this afternoon. In a dynamic performance, the beautifully bred filly rattled home from near last at the turn to grab J'adane, Magic Cape and warm favourite Seachange. Raced by Bromley Bloodstock and Ray Coupland after being purchased by David Ellis for $260,000 at the 2005 Magic Millions National Yearling Sale, Princess Coup was already a Group One winner before today's race. She proved her class at racing's elite level when she demoralised her rivals in the Group One New Zealand Oaks earlier in the year before being crowned New Zealand's champion three-year-old of either sex. Trainer Mark Walker confirmed the mare would now fly across to Australia to contest the Caulfield Cup in a fortnight. An earner of over NZ$1.6 million, Princess Coup's record now reads out at nine wins and five minor placings from just 20 starts. A daughter of Encosta de Lago and from the stakes winning Sovereign Red mare Stoneyfell Road, Princess Coup was bred by Mark Kelly's Ingenue Breeding Syndicate and good friend Brenton Wise in South Australia. Eskander's Betstar reported big support for Princess Coup during the week and again slashed her price after the race. As much as $34 was available on Wednesday. She was backed into $26 by Friday morning and into $21 this morning. Immediately after the race her price was cut to $11. Last season Princess Coup was crowned New Zealand's Champion Three-Year-Old and also that country's Filly of the Year. EXCEEDINGLY
GOOD WINS MARIBYRNONG TRIAL Favourite punters kicked away Turnbull Stakes Day with a winner when promising juvenile Exceedingly Good scored an impressive win in the listed $100,000 Maribyrnong Trial Stakes (1000m) at Flemington today. The colt, the first runner for Danehill's first season sire son Exceed and Excel, was sent out the favourite on the strength of an impressive trial win at Cranbourne late last month. After being tardy away Exceedingly Good was able to work his way outside the early leader Happy Genes on the inside division of the track. "I think standing in the barriers for a while he was tardy away," Freedman commented. "He quickened away well at the 200 metres, but at the end I think the early effort told a little bit." "In the end I think it was a good, strong win. There's improvement in the horse." Exceedingly Good ($2.60-$3 fav) despite having his margin cut near the line, still had a neck up his sleeve over the beautifully bred Starfish ($8.50-$9), while Nato ($6-$7) was another three parts of a length back in third place. Exceedingly Good appears to be well named. As well as being an obvious above average galloper, the colt is also a pleasure to work with according to connections. "He's been like that from day one," Freedman said. "I think they are a good breed the Exceed and Excels. Most of the ones we have show good speed, have great temperaments, very much like the Danehills." "I hope it's Danehill revisited, that would be great." Freedman isn't sure yet whether to give the strapping colt another run over the carnival or tip him out for a nice spell. "I'm not sure. We might hang around for the Maribyrnong (Plate) or we might go to the paddock." He said the current EI situation where a number of the country's feature juvenile races have been deferred at least a month could benefit this fellow. "I think it's probably an opportunity to give horses five or six weeks, which we wouldn't normally get." "I think he would develop well in that time as well." Freedman, like he told The Virtual FormGuide at the Cranbourne trials last month, feels he has a nice bunch of juveniles in his care this season. "I think they are good," Freedman commented. "We've come here and won the first two-year-old listed race and we know we've got others that are pretty good too." Exceedingly Good is one of three named foals and two winners for the stakes performed Snippets mare Common Smytzer. A dual winner at two, Common Smytzer also finished second in the listed Lady Mayoress' Plate at Flemington. He was bred by Tony Santic and made $400,000 as a yearling at the Easter Sale this year. Santic obviously kept a major slice in the youngster as he races in his familiar Makybe Diva colours. Story courtesy of The Virtual Formguide - www.virtualformguide.com MERLOT
NOW CRUISES HOME IN LEE STAKES Grand producing mare Babelle was represented by progeny win number 51 when her stakes winning son Merlot Now won the listed John D Lee Stakes (1400m) at Morphettville yesterday. Ridden quietly by Michael Hoppo, Merlot Now came with a barnstorming run in the straight to run down the ever consistent Jim's Party to provide Oakside Park Stud's Akhadan with a stakes race quinella. Completing an SA bred sweep in the stakes race was the Wayne Francis bred Finniss D'or. Merlot Now's win was the fourth at stakes level for the tough gelding whose earnings have now passed the quarter of a million dollars mark. Trained, raced and bred by Darryl Hewitt from Karoonda, Merlot Now is one of eight winners from the top producing Francis Bacon mare Babelle. Her other winners have been Moet Now (17 wins, stakes placed, city winner), Sparkling Now (9 wins, stakes placed, city winner), Pinot Now (4 wins, city winner), Just Do It Now (3 wins, city winner), Shiraz Now (6 wins, city placed), Verdelho Now (winner, city placed) and Cabernet Now (2 wins). The only runners for Babelle who didn't win was the lightly raced and placed Now Go, a mare who has been retired to stud and has already thrown the juvenile winner and stakes race fourth placegetter Cascade Now. Akhadan, who provided the quinella in the race, is the sire of no fewer than 74 winners including stakes winners Rosden, Almost Never, Subtle Irony and of course Merlot Now. His other stakes performers include Angkhasa, Terango, Keetah's Lady, One of a Kind, Rachael's Pride, Redadan and Jim's Party. Akhadan is standing this spring at Trevor Harrington's Oakside Park Stud at a service fee of $3,300 (inc GST).
MOVEMENT OF HORSES
INTO SOUTH AUSTRALIA For all information concerning the application to introduce equines into South Australia (non slaughter), please call (08) 8207 7827 or (08) 8207 7829. Alternatively, an application for such permits can be obtained from the TRSA or PIRSA website. Permit applications can be faxed to (08) 8207 7960. Click here for an application form.
DEVIL MOONS WINS STOCKS
STAKES Outstanding mare Devil Moon has had her price slashed for the Caulfield Cup after notching her second straight feature win in today's Group Two Stocks Stakes (1600m) at Moonee Valley. Despite covering extra ground in the race, when no closer than three horses from the rails for much of the journey, the Mark Kavanagh trained star still proved far too good. Eskander's Betstar slashed Devil Moon's quote for the Caulfield Cup from $51 to $17 following the emphatic victory. "Wow, how good was that," Kavanagh said from the winner's stall while his merry group of owners including wife Isobel were stranded on the other side of the fence because of EI restrictions. Breeder and part owner Harry Perks wondered where next for Devil Moon. "Where are we heading now Mark?" To which Kavanagh responded quickly with "hopefully somewhere with lots of Moet." Winning rider Michael Rodd heaped compliments on the mare after unsaddling the daughter of King Cugat. "What a great win," Rodd commented. "She's as tough as they come!" Devil Moon, from a stakes performed half sister to former popular Adelaide stayer and Melbourne Cup placegetter Skybeau, was sent out the favourite in today's race despite the outside barrier on the strength of her brilliant win in last Saturday's Let's Elope Stakes at Flemington. A four-year-old mare, Devil Moon's outstanding race record now reads out at seven wins and three minor placings from just 15 starts and stakes earnings of $529,750. Courtesy www.kavanaghracing.com LLOYD'S
SUPPORTS TBA
INITIATIVE The equine industry's major insurance underwriter - Lloyd's of London - have added their support to recent TBA efforts to salvage the remaining weeks of this year's breeding season. Keith Stern, Lloyd's Sydney representative, issued a formal statement this morning which said: "Lloyd's Underwriters are prepared to support the initiative proposed by the Thoroughbred Breeders Association to allow movement of horses into and within infected areas to permit the breeding season to progress". "We're grateful for Lloyd's practical approach to EI [Equine Influenza] here because from all accounts those farms that have contracted it in the Hunter claim it only presents with mild symptoms" said TBA President John Messara. If the 2007 breeding industry is cancelled as a result of the EI outbreak, losses to NSW breeders in particular will be considerable and there will be severe ramifications for other areas of the Industry in future years. Independent research conducted for the TBA has estimated the direct losses to NSW breeders from a significantly reduced 2008 foal crop at approximately $823 million should the 2007 season not go ahead. "As a means of reducing these losses the TBA is progressing with the concept of a special restricted zone in the Hunter," reports Messara. "We have the potential to substantially reduce the losses to the NSW breeding industry if we can commence serving mares by 15 September. Our research reveals that should a restricted zone be established and movement of mares allowed within that zone then, based on the birthdates of the 2006 foals, if serving could commence on that date, 92.5% of the predicted losses could be saved. That's 5,620 foals, and the minimum loss in such circumstances would be approximately $62 million. That remains a significant figure but it will have far less catastrophic an effect across the industry than $823 million." Queensland is also suffering with EI and Messara commented "further delay to their breeding industry will only accentuate the losses." Bob
Frappell, President of the Queensland Thoroughbred Breeders Association
[‘TBQA'] said "TBQA fully support the TBA and the initiatives John
Messara has proposed. If the protocols are easy to rely on we would like
the same protocols as NSW. We want to get our State's mares served as
well. We know the DPI probably won't allow any cross-border activity this
season but even if we can get some intra- For latest updates on EI visit the dedicated EI blog at http://eiupdater.vox.com TBA release
MOON SPARKLES IN
FLEMINGTON SUNSHINE Outstanding mare Devil Moon burst into contention for October's Caulfield Cup after a brilliant all the way win in the $201,500 Group Three Let's Elope Stakes (1400m) at Flemington today. Prepared at the track by interstate trainer Mark Kavanagh, Devil Moon did a remarkable job crossing from the outside barrier early (in a field of 16) and then showed great acceleration in the straight to zip clear of her rivals and set up a winning break. Devil Moon ($9-$10) was still full of running to the line, cruising home to beat the reigning Queensland Oaks winner Eskimo Queen ($7-$8.50-$8) by a length and a half. Bellini Rose ($5-$8) was another length and a half behind the runner-up in third place. Kavanagh said the mare was among the entries for the Caulfield Cup and she would be given her chance to make the field with high profile stablemates Maldivian and Tipungwuti. "I might go around next Saturday in the mares race over a mile," Kavanagh said referring to the Stocks Stakes at Moonee Valley on Manikato Stakes Day. "I'll just see how we go." "She's group one placed over 2000 (metres) and she's closely related to Skybeau. I suppose a mile and a half may be okay." "She's in the Caulfield Cup, who knows we might be able to get there," Kavanagh commented. Kavanagh said after seeing the early races where on speeders dominated he decided to instruct rider Michael Rodd to head across runners and attempt to get near the fence. "That was the plan, to be positive and go forward," Kavanagh said. "The track seems to be favouring leaders." "I thought Permaiscuous might drag us across a little more than it did," Kavanagh commented. "There didn't appear to be a lot of speed on paper, so he was able to get across easier than I thought." "Half way through the race I thought her early work might have told, but he (Rodd) was able to control her nicely and she was really strong to the line." A graduate of the 2005 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale at Morphettville, Devil Moon is raced by Robin McLeay, Trevor Robertson, Harry Perks, Mark Potter and Rod Fairclough. The daughter of King Cugat is now the winner of six races - four at stakes level - and sent her soarings past the $400,000 barrier. The bonny four-year-old mare is from the stakes performed Masterclass mare Classy Babe, a half sister to two stakes horses including the former top stayer and Melbourne Cup placegetter Skybeau. Devil Moon was bred by Toorak Park Stud,
ADELAIDE MIXED SALE
POSTPONED Due to the current Equine Influenza crisis, Magic Millions wish to advise that the Mixed Thoroughbred Sale set down for Sunday September 16th in Adelaide has been postponed. Further notification will be made at a later date once more is known regarding the current situation. South Australia's chief veterinary officer Rob Rahaley said although the ban on horse movement had been lifted, organisers were still urged to cancel events if possible. Entry Fees already submitted will be refunded. We apologise for any inconvenience. For updates log on to our website www.magicmillions.com.au. MM announcement
ADELAIDE STAKES DOUBLE
FOR BARGAIN BUYS Sassbee and Blahnik, who cost a combined $31,600 as yearlings, swept away with the two feature stakes races at Morphettville today. The $3,600 bargain buy Sassbee bounced back to his brilliant best with a strong win in the listed Penny Edition Stakes (1500m). Prepared by David Jolly and ridden by Matthew Neilson, Sassbee ($3.50) finished strongly to beat Secret Daughter ($5.50) by a long neck. Reigning Magic Millions Adelaide 2YO Classic winner Truly Beautiful ($3 fav) was a further three parts of a length back in third place. A son of Kambula Stud's resident sire star Blevic, Sassbee has been a tremendous money spinner for connections. With now eight wins on his record, the seven-year-old gelding has amassed some $371,170 in stakes. David Jolly purchased the gelding for $3,600 from the draft of Trimview Park Stud at the 2002 Magic Millions Adelaide Cup Sale at Morphettville. From the lightly raced Marquee Star mare Aneret Gold, Sassbee is a full brother to the six time winner Cadgee Gold. Just over half an hour later it was the turn of Blahnik to add another stakes win to his record with a victory in the listed WH Wylie Handicap (1100m). Prepared at the track by former jockey Jon O'Connor, Blahnik was having his first start since last October and he sprinted magnificently in the straight to beat Vormista - a last start fourth placegetter in the Sir John Monash Stakes at Caulfield. A son of former Melbourne Cup winner and Australian Horse of the Year Jeune, Blahnik is one of three winners from King's High's stakes winning daughter Gift Bouquet. Bred and sold by Alistair and Patricia McFarlane's Tori Park Stud, Blahnik was purchased by O'Connor for $28,000 from the summer session of the 2004 Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale. In the run to the line Blahnik ($6), with Dom Tourneur in the saddle, held a one and a quarter length margin over Vormista ($2.80 fav). Consistent Adelaide sprinter Amyjaye Power ($8) was a further long neck back in third place. Among the unplaced brigade were proven stakes winners Reshuffles, Minson, El Maze, Bold Line and She Will Be Loved - the latter a conqueror of Miss Finland last spring. Magic Millions release 'INDEFINITE
DELAY' FOR QUARANTINED STALLIONS The Minister for Agriculture, Mr Peter McGauran MP has advised this morning that 2 more shuttle stallions at Eastern Creek Quarantine Station have tested positive to Equine Influenza. An additional third stallion is classified as suspect. As a result of this development the exit of all Australian bound stallions at Eastern Creek will be delayed for an indefinite period. These two new positive cases are in addition to the initial 5 previously advised cases. Message from TBA president John Messara
SA BRED IS NEW ZEALAND'S
CHAMPION 3YO South Australian bred New Zealand star Princess Coup was tonight crowned as that country's Champion Three-Year-Old at the Mercedes Thoroughbred Racing Awards at Hawke's Bay. Bred by Mark Kelly's Ingenue Breeding Syndicate and good friend Brenton Wise, Princess Coup runs in tomorrow's Group One Mudgway Stakes as she heads on a likely Melbourne Cups campaign.
She was a popular winner of the Champion Three-Year-Old award after an outstanding season which was rounded out by an awesome win the Group One New Zealand Oaks. Also a recipient of the Filly of the Year award, Princess Coup was the only horse to win more than one award at New Zealand racing's night of nights. As well as her runaway win in the New Zealand Oaks, Princess Coup also won the Group Three Desert Gold Stakes and Group Three Lowland Stakes. She was also second in the Group One New Zealand One Thousand Guineas and third in the Group One New Zealand Two Thousand Guineas. Princess Coup (Encosta de Lago) is one of four winners, from four to race for the multiple stakes winning Sovereign Red mare Stoneyfell Road. Her other winners include the now Ceduna based Adelaide winner Fullarton Road (Final Card), a tough sprinting gelding who recently won his tenth race and sent his earnings past $100,000. Princess Coup is raced by Bromley Bloodstock and Ray Coupland after her purchase as a yearling by leading New Zealand bloodstock identity David Ellis for $260,000 at the 2005 Magic Millions National Yearling Sale at the Gold Coast.
BREEDING SEASON
COMMENCES TODAY At its special emergency national meeting today the Australian Racing Board agreed to a proposal by Thoroughbred Breeders Australia that the commencement of the breeding season be brought forward from 1st September to 27th August, 2007. Having received a request from the national peak body representing the Australian breeding section, the ARB resolved today that in the exceptional circumstances of the current outbreak of Equine Influenza, and the uncertainty about the duration of restrictions on the movement of horses in the near future, approval is given for mares to be covered from today’s date, 27 August, 2007. This will permit mares currently domiciled on breeding farms to be covered by resident stallions from today, bringing the breeding season forward by six days. This action is being taken in the hope of ameliorating to some extent an anticipated congestion of mares’ coverings when the current restrictions on the movement of horses are eventually lifted. The outcome of this decision is that 2008 foals who are the result of a covering between 27 August 2007 and 31 August 2007 will be recognised as the same age as those whose dams were covered from 1 September 2007. The Australian Racing Board stresses that this Order is subject to all current and future Government orders and edicts restricting the movement of horses. The Australian Racing Board will work in close co-operation with the Australian Stud Book and Thoroughbred Breeders Australia in the implementation of this change. ARB release
STATEMENT ON EQUINE
INFLUENZA The South Australian Thoroughbred Breeders (SATB) support the recent announcement of Government officials to restrict the movement of horses throughout Australia in the wake of the equine influenza outbreak. "We urge all horse owners throughout South Australia to observe the restrictions announced by Federal Agriculture Minister Peter McGauran," SATB President Graham Ingerson said. "No horses, donkeys or mules can be moved until further notice," Ingerson said. "It is essential we bring this outbreak of equine influenza under control as soon as possible and therefore all horse owners need to be vigilant." "At this stage we have no reported cases of equine influenza in South Australia, but that does not mean we should become complacent." Race meetings and horse events have been cancelled throughout Australia until at least Wednesday. Symptoms of equine influenza include: a deep, dry hacking cough, a watery nasal discharge, elevated temperature (between 38.5 and 41 degrees), depression, loss of appetite, laboured breathing, muscle pain and stiffness. If any horse owners experience an unusual number of sick horses with high temperatures or animals with unusual signs, a veterinarian should be called. For further details or questions contact:
SATB'S ELAINE HONOURED
WITH AWARD SATB executive officer Elaine Robertson last night won the prestigious Racing Minister's Most Outstanding Achievement by a Volunteer Award at the SA Hall of Fame and Industry Awards Night. Robertson, who only arrived back from the United States last night in time to receive the award, is one of the state's most recognisable racing identities. As well as being the executive officer of the South Australian Thoroughbred Breeders, Robertson has for many years been involved with a number of other racing groups, committees and organisations. Elaine has just arrived back in Australia after hosting a tour of South Australian breeders to the United States. Her daughter Julie Preston, a former TABRadio personality, had flown from Melbourne for the function. Other award winners on the night were Divine Madonna (SA's Champion Racehorse), David Hayes, Paul Gatt, John Haigh, Lloyd Cromwell, Jenny Gow-Whyte, Dominic Tourneur as well as Hall of Fame inductees Bob Cox, Without Fear and John O'Neil.
TBA ISSUES WARNING ON
VIRAL ABORTION The President of Thoroughbred Breeders Australia, Mr John Messara, has issued a warning to all breeders to be extra vigilant in the care of pregnant mares in light of a number of isolated cases of Equine Viral Abortion. Mr Messara stated that breeders are responsible for the diagnosis of all abortions and for reporting those caused by the Equine Herpes Virus-1. The TBA has asked that quarantine procedures for incoming bloodstock be strictly adhered to, and that breeders are advised to vaccinate their mares and fillies to protect them against the Equine Herpes Virus. Above is a precautionary note to all breeders from TBA
NEW PRESIDENT FOR
THOROUGHBRED BREEDERS AUSTRALIA At the meeting of Thoroughbred Breeders Australia Ltd (TBA) on Friday 20 July 2007, the board elected Mr John Messara as President of the Association. Mr Messara is currently also the Chairman of Aushorse Ltd and sits on the Australian Pattern Committee. The election of office bearers of the association took place after the announcement that Aushorse Ltd had become a member of the TBA and that Mr Messara and Mr Ken Barry had been appointed as directors on the TBA board. Mr Trevor Lobb (TBNSW) was re-elected as Vice President and Mrs Sally Oakes (WABBA) was re-elected as Treasurer. Mr Messara said, “This development will result in Australian breeders having one powerful voice, which I believe will allow our industry to progress". The TBA was established in 1919, and is the federal body of the thoroughbred breeding associations in each state. The TBA board of directors consists of two representatives from each state association including Aushorse Ltd.
STARAAQ GELDING
WINS NT DERBY Self confessed battler Vincent Bradley scored the biggest win of his breeding, owning and training career when his talented three-year-old Brad Star scored a brilliant win in the $101,700 Skycity NT Derby (2000m) at Fannie Bay in Darwin. With top local jockey Paul Shiers in the saddle, Brad Star sat just off the speed before coming with a perfectly timed run to hit the front in the straight and pull clear over the concluding stages. "We were able to get into a good position today, just like last start in the (Darwin) Guineas," Bradley said tonight. "They (the leaders) dropped the speed during the middle stages and I didn't think that would suit him." "But when he was able to get into fourth place with about 800 metres to run I knew he would be the one to beat. I was pretty confident from then on." "The second horse (Euler) battled hard in the straight, but we were able to draw clear in the last 50 (metres) and win well," Bradley commented. A long time resident at Millicent in South Australia's south east, Bradley made the trip to the top end with a horse after being on course for last year's Cup. "I was up here last year for about three months, helping a few guys out and I really did love it," Bradley said. "I'm getting on a bit now and I've got a bit of arthritis, so why wouldn't I want to be up here in God's country?" Bradley said his classy son of Staaraq, who at his previous run demoralised his rivals in the rich Darwin Guineas, was a mighty tough galloper. "He's virtually been in work for a year now. I put him into work on the 18th of August last year as soon as I got back from Darwin," Bradley recalled. "After having such a good time here last year, I really wanted to head back with him - so today's race was a long time in the planning." The gelding is one of two winners from the John's Hero mare Phantasiare. "I trained her and she was handy without being anything special. She won three races (to 1400 metres) for us." "She has also thrown Rendelsham Star, who's also by Staaraq, and he was a good gelding for me - he won two in town (Adelaide)." Staaraq, the sire of Brad Star and Rendelsham Star, was a popular 'bread and butter' stallion who stood at Pam Williamson's Kenton Valley Park Stud. The sire of 48 winners including stakes gallopers Cyber Dream, Upmarket Star and Fava, Staaraq tragically died in November last year. Brad Star, the winner of five of his 17 starts and over $110,000, will now attempt to complete the big top end triple crown in the upcoming Darwin Cup. "At this stage that is the plan. If everything goes well between now and then, we'll be having a crack at it." And when can the locals in Millicent and the surrounding communities in the south east of South Australia? "If we win the Cup who knows, I might never leave!"
ODYSSEUS GOES BACK
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