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Friday Flash – 18th April 2025

Published 18 April 2025

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 “Star Shadow” 2nd career win – Riccarton 12th April 2025 – George Rooke aboard

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Headline News

Leaderboard wins again over the big fences on a seven day turnaround – Warrnambool Carnival is now in his sights


 

Former Entain executives Cameron Roger and Lachlan Fitt launch Evergreen – a high quality Thoroughbred Breeding Fund

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Fortuna has three runners this weekend, all in NZ

Ellerslie – Saturday

COURT OF APPEAL races in the R75 2100 – Race 1 @ 11.50pm, will be ridden by Michael McNab from the outside barrier – dominant win at Taupo 1800m late Feb, she was then desperately unlucky Hawera this trip 26th March  –  up in grade here and meets some useful types but is a genuine stayer in the making – bold showing expected with just 54kgs to carry  – TAB Says “has run well all starts this time in – win chance for sure” – Showing odds of $6/2.20

Waverley – Monday

HAYATE races in the R60 2100 – Race 6 @ 2.54pm, will be ridden by Michael McNab from a midfield barrier – ran this grade and trip for the first time Pukekohe 2nd April –  raced prominently at Pukekohe and battled on for 4th place – will have taken big improvement from that and should be right in the finish here – No comment or Odds from TAB yet

MALBOROUGH BAY resumes in the R75 1200 – Race 8 @ 4.04pm, will be ridden by Stable apprentice Hayley Hassman, claiming 4kgs,  from barrier five – rarely runs a bad race boasting 21 top 5 placings from 28 career starts – prefers soft ground which he should get here and 4kgs off his back is a huge boost – good each way chance in this – No comment or Odds from TAB yet

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Trackwork – Fortuna Runners

Matamata – 15th AprilHayate (C Barnes) galloped over 1200 metres in 1.18.5, last 600 in 37.2.

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Other News

Leaderboard makes it two Steeplechase wins in seven days in Victoria

Published 14 April 2025

At the peak of his powers, Leaderboard (10 g Street Cry – Flower Fairy, by Dynaformer) was too good when winning the $75,000 J. E. H. Spencer Memorial Steeplechase (4000m) on 13 April at Pakenham. After comfortably winning the Open Steeplechase (3250m) a week earlier at Ballarat, and as a lead-in to the $150,000 Brierley Chase (3450m) on Tuesday 29 April and the $350,000 Grand Annual Steeplechase (5500m) on Thursday 1 May, during the Warrnambool carnival, Leaderboard had no problem coping with the seven-day turnaround.

Owned by Fortuna Leaderboard Syndicate (Mgr: John Galvin), he was purchased in October 2018 at the Tattersalls Sale in U.K., and his 11 wins have yielded over $640,000 in earnings. Leaderboard has now won four jumping races, including three steeplechases, and further enhanced a terrific autumn record with eight of his 11 wins coming between March and June.

A day beforehand, following the win by Fortuna Racings stable-mate Star Shadow (Reliable Man) at Riccarton, John Galvin commented on Leaderboard, saying: “He’s had a fantastic week. He had a pretty soft run last week, which took nothing out of him, and Mark (Walker) has hardly done anything with him since then. Just ticking over and he went to the beach on Wednesday for a swim in the surf and worked through the sand dunes on Friday. He’s a great jumper, in good form, so we’re pretty confident of him racing well again.”

Sharing the confidence, jockey Will Gordon, who was also aboard for the recent win at Ballarat, had Leaderboard at the head of affairs, with a rival to his outside for company, and after another polished jumping display he pulled away in the straight to win by four lengths.

Click HERE to watch the race replay

“He’s an old marvel and it was another terrific win,” said trainer Mark Walker. “A lot of satisfaction comes from wins like this, because there’s a lot of ground work and preparation that goes into it. Everyone at the stable just adores him and we’re really looking forward to getting him to Warrnambool now. The great thing with these jumpers, too, is that they’re brilliant at helping to educate the yearlings, so it’s a great dual purpose and they love it.”

Although facing only three rivals, Leaderboard was the only one wanted in betting and he closed at $1.30 on the NZ TAB tote. Already something of a course specialist at Warrnambool, winning a 3200-metre Hurdle at his first attempt and following with a first and third over 3450 metres in Steeplechases, Leaderboard will be an in-form drawcard during the carnival and shapes as a strong contender in each of his two prestigious jumps assignments.

“Leaderboard” – Steeples Victory at Pakenham  –  13th April 2025 – Will Gordon aboard

“It has been a good trip (from New Zealand),” John Galvin, who was on track at Pakenham, said. “I was up early this morning and went to the Cranbourne stables to inspect all our horses and then I travelled with Mark (Walker) and Ben (Gleeson) to the races. We were a bit nervous heading into the race, whether the track was going to be too firm, or not. Under the new rules for jumps races, if they upgrade them under a Soft5 then they could call the meeting off. It was a Soft6 to start with, then after the first race they made it a Soft5 and thankfully it held there. Will (Gordon) reported that although he was pressured two or three times during the race, he had it under control, and our boy was just too strong. He got in a bit close at the second last fence, just as he did last Sunday at Ballarat, but overall, his jumping was very good. We had a look at him afterwards with Mark and he was very happy with the way he came through it and thought he’d pulled up well. He handled himself extremely well and Mark thinks he’s still got a bit of improvement heading into Warrnambool. Its good to have these horses winning and three or four of the owners in Leaderboard are also in Star Shadow, so they’ve had a good weekend. The staff say that Leaderboard is like a two-year-old around the stables, always alert, never tired, and always wanting to do more. It was a nice stake, $75,000, and some good money is on offer at Warrnambool.”

Leaderboard was strapped by Jason Levin.

Over the last – Pakenham 13th April
Well clear with winning post in sight
Returning to Scale

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Former Entain executives Cameron Roger and Lachlan Fitt launch Evergreen – a high quality Thoroughbred Breeding Fund

A few eyebrows were raised recently when Cameron and Lachhlan, formally high profile executives at Entain New Zealand, announced their resignation from Entain – with the reason given that they were seeking to “pursue other opportunities within the thoroughbred racing/breeding sector”Recently they have announced the launch of Evergreen, an Elite Thoroughbred breeding fund – this is a very interesting concept as it is very clear that the breeding landscape has changed significantly in recent years, with large breeding organisations in Australasia dominating the breeding scene and many small to medium breeders exiting.

As we know breeding is a long-term enterprise that is very capital intense intensive with a long time to wait for returns and significant risk involved – as a result of these factors it is extremely difficult for a small to medium investor who may have interest in the sector being able to find a pathway to be involved and as you will read from the material below Evergreen has been designed as a an investment fund which will invest into an elite broodmare band (around 10 in number) under Professional management and provides the ability for investors to be involved – see a summary of the concept below – as you will see there is an initial minimum capital investment of $50k required from individual investors with no ongoing costs, the fund size will be $5m, the projected Term of the fund is 6 to 8 years with the “long stop” termination date being July 2033

$50k is a pretty fair sum of money of course and so Fortuna Racing is toying with the idea of forming a syndicate from its client base with the aim of acquiring one or two $50k parcels with each investor contributing a minimum of $5k. There would be no entry fee charged by the Fortuna Syndicate, so just the initial capital would be paid and Fortuna would manage the syndicate on behalf of investors in our usual fashion.

If you find this proposal attractive just let me know and I will gauge interest


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Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Here is what Des has for our readers this week and I hope you were on his Randwick tip from last week, Sergeant Major, @ a juicy $7.50 dividend on the tote!!!

Greetings John and all of the Fortuna readers

Well done again John, with good results on both sides of the Tasman last weekend.

I’ve been happy with my own  results over the past week and it was good to be at Randwick and cheer home ex pat Sergeant Major on Champions Day (labelled in the column 7 days ago).

We had a scratching last week while the other selection, Lantern Way, may have only  ran 4th but is certainly a black booker.

We are now well into the track rating dilemma. There’s no certainty when it comes to track conditions. We can be running on a slow track on Friday at which can turn to heavy overnight or well before. However,  this will all change as the consistency with heavy tracks generally hold sway throughout June, July and August. As most of us know the summer – autumn horses are now being eased out of the competition and replaced by the true blue winter gallopers; horses that are clearly adept in heavy ground.

I know a few punters shut up shop at this time of the year but I’m the opposite and I don’t mind sifting through the form and weighing up all the variables to hopefully get the result I’m looking for and sharing with others. But In saying all this, I think the new look Ellerslie track will never been a really tough test during this period.

For that reason a few stables may extend the programmes for their autumn gallopers to focus solely on Ellerslie which makes sense when you consider that Ellerslie is blessed with 5 more race days between now and the end of May.

From a tipping perspective I’d like to think we can keep on top of the winter scene this season and as a special offer to Fortuna followers the subscription to my race tipping email service remains at $240 ( gst inclusive for the next 3 months);  or $100 for May only with both offers giving you the rest of April (8 meetings) ex gratis. The three months will start May 1 and run through to the end of the racing season, July 31.
Simply email me dcoppins@xtra.co.nz if you’d like to know more.

Horses to follow at Ellerslie on Saturday and beyond include:

Acapelago: race 5

This horse is very forward to resume going on its recent trial at Ellerslie. The draw is awkward but I sense it’ll come into 12 or 13. Last season she ran a meritorious 4th in stakes company on debut at  Wanganui on a heavy track; albeit in a smallish field. Two or three handy types have come out of that race.

She had a short spell after that race in June and resumed with a winning run on a soft track at Matamata and she also ran second to a classy type in Prosegur on a heavy track at Tauranga.  She’s ready but whatever she does at Ellerslie the advice would be to stick with her in the weeks and months ahead.

Sterling Express in race three at Ellerslie

Maybe the weight scale doesn’t assist this 4-win galloper but he’s definitely worth a close look. He won’t take long in adding to his score; I’ll say within three starts!
He ran 14 times within 12 months and while he has winning form on all track ratings, good, soft and heavy he clearly likes cut in the ground hence his return to racing at this time of the year.

For the record he’s won two of his 4 starts on soft tracks and has never been further back than third in three starts on heavy ground. Perhaps one of his best runs was  narrow win over former group one winner, Wolverine, carrying just a half kg less at Rotorua on a soft 6.

Mossinvader, race 8

I’m not sure if this talented type will race anywhere but Ellerslie for the rest of the term because I’m not convinced he will handle the tougher ground in the months ahead.
The race on Saturday is well within his capabilities and he looks just about ready to win. He had the quickest sectionals behind Electron the other day and he likes Ellerslie and outside the NZ Derby last year in three starts here he’s never been further back than 5th.One of those runs includes a third behind the talented Orchestral and Mary Shan on a soft 6 on Karaka Millions night in January.

Stop press
The Sporting Tours Melbourne Cup tour this year is filling. My co tour leader Lisa Allpress welcomes you aboard as I do. We could have up to 100 people with us this year which will include bucket-listers as well as regulars. Feel free to drop me a line and I’ll arrange for a Sporting Tours operator to immediately get in touch and discuss the options.
Good punting!

Des Coppins
021 448 052

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Leaderboard makes it two Steeplechase wins in seven days in Victoria

Published 14 April 2025

At the peak of his powers, Leaderboard (10 g Street Cry – Flower Fairy, by Dynaformer) was too good when winning the $75,000 J. E. H. Spencer Memorial Steeplechase (4000m) on 13 April at Pakenham. After comfortably winning the Open Steeplechase (3250m) a week earlier at Ballarat, and as a lead-in to the $150,000 Brierley Chase (3450m) on Tuesday 29 April and the $350,000 Grand Annual Steeplechase (5500m) on Thursday 1 May, during the Warrnambool carnival, Leaderboard had no problem coping with the seven-day turnaround.

Owned by Fortuna Leaderboard Syndicate (Mgr: John Galvin), he was purchased in October 2018 at the Tattersalls Sale in U.K., and his 11 wins have yielded over $640,000 in earnings. Leaderboard has now won four jumping races, including three steeplechases, and further enhanced a terrific autumn record with eight of his 11 wins coming between March and June.

A day beforehand, following the win by Fortuna Racings stable-mate Star Shadow (Reliable Man) at Riccarton, John Galvin commented on Leaderboard, saying: “He’s had a fantastic week. He had a pretty soft run last week, which took nothing out of him, and Mark (Walker) has hardly done anything with him since then. Just ticking over and he went to the beach on Wednesday for a swim in the surf and worked through the sand dunes on Friday. He’s a great jumper, in good form, so we’re pretty confident of him racing well again.”

Sharing the confidence, jockey Will Gordon, who was also aboard for the recent win at Ballarat, had Leaderboard at the head of affairs, with a rival to his outside for company, and after another polished jumping display he pulled away in the straight to win by four lengths.

Click HERE to watch the race replay

“He’s an old marvel and it was another terrific win,” said trainer Mark Walker. “A lot of satisfaction comes from wins like this, because there’s a lot of ground work and preparation that goes into it. Everyone at the stable just adores him and we’re really looking forward to getting him to Warrnambool now. The great thing with these jumpers, too, is that they’re brilliant at helping to educate the yearlings, so it’s a great dual purpose and they love it.”

Although facing only three rivals, Leaderboard was the only one wanted in betting and he closed at $1.30 on the NZ TAB tote. Already something of a course specialist at Warrnambool, winning a 3200-metre Hurdle at his first attempt and following with a first and third over 3450 metres in Steeplechases, Leaderboard will be an in-form drawcard during the carnival and shapes as a strong contender in each of his two prestigious jumps assignments.

“Leaderboard” – Steeples Victory at Pakenham  –  13th April 2025 – Will Gordon aboard

“It has been a good trip (from New Zealand),” John Galvin, who was on track at Pakenham, said. “I was up early this morning and went to the Cranbourne stables to inspect all our horses and then I travelled with Mark (Walker) and Ben (Gleeson) to the races. We were a bit nervous heading into the race, whether the track was going to be too firm, or not. Under the new rules for jumps races, if they upgrade them under a Soft5 then they could call the meeting off. It was a Soft6 to start with, then after the first race they made it a Soft5 and thankfully it held there. Will (Gordon) reported that although he was pressured two or three times during the race, he had it under control, and our boy was just too strong. He got in a bit close at the second last fence, just as he did last Sunday at Ballarat, but overall, his jumping was very good. We had a look at him afterwards with Mark and he was very happy with the way he came through it and thought he’d pulled up well. He handled himself extremely well and Mark thinks he’s still got a bit of improvement heading into Warrnambool. Its good to have these horses winning and three or four of the owners in Leaderboard are also in Star Shadow, so they’ve had a good weekend. The staff say that Leaderboard is like a two-year-old around the stables, always alert, never tired, and always wanting to do more. It was a nice stake, $75,000, and some good money is on offer at Warrnambool.”

Leaderboard was strapped by Jason Levin.

Star Shadow wins at Riccarton – 12th April 2025

Published 13 April 2025

Almost a year to the day since winning on debut as a two-year-old at Otaki, grey filly Star Shadow (3 f Reliable Man – Scene Queen, by Redoute’s Choice) won the $20,000 Avon City Ford Rating 65 1600 metres on Saturday at Riccarton. Having done very well from the rear for second in the Rating 65 1600 metres on 5 February and not far away when finishing widest on the track in the Rating 65 1600 metres on 5 March, both at Riccarton, Star Shadow was given time (38 days) between runs and rated a top three chance.

Ridden by George Rooke, having his first visit to the course, Star Shadow slotted into midfield, was ninth passing the 600m, and unwound with a well-timed finish after getting clear at the 250m. It was a talented ride by the Englishman, who has shown to be among the best of his craft since commencing last October in New Zealand, and a good effort by Star Shadow, a filly patiently handled by trainers Mark Walker & Sam Bergerson that had also measured up in stakes company.

“She looked as though she was going to be unlucky before getting clear in the straight, but a good ride by George Rooke, and she managed to put a winning break on them,” Walker said. “Great to get another win for John Galvin and his owners in Fortuna Racing. She’s a filly that Dave (Ellis) bought cheaply with John and we’ll step her up again to black type racing next start.”

The race is mind for Star Shadow is the $80,000 New Zealand Bloodstock Warstep Stakes (Listed, 2000m) on Saturday 26 April at Riccarton. On Good 4 footing, Star Shadow ran 1600 metres in 1:36.8, and justified favouritism to pay $3.80 & $1.90 on the NZ TAB tote.

Click HERE to see the race result and replay

Purchased by David Ellis CNZM and Fortuna Racing for $35,000 at the 2023 Karaka Book 2 Sale, from the draft of Westbury Stud, Star Shadow was a rare two-year-old winner for her sire, Reliable Man (Dalakhani), who won two Group One races to 2100 metres and whose progeny have excelled as three-year-olds and upwards. That said, the juvenile win was indicative of showing natural ability, which had been exuded in trials prior to racing, and there appears good reason for ongoing improvement, now, with two wins under her belt.


“Star Shadow” 2nd career win – Riccarton 12th April 2025 – George Rooke aboard

Owned by the Fortuna Star Shadow Syndicate (Mgr: John Galvin), an ownership Group comprising  60 individuals, Star Shadow is out of a mare by world-class Champion Sire and Champion Broodmare Sire Redoute’s Choice (Danehill), and carries a Northern Dancer cross on the dam line of Reliable Man (Dalakhani) and sire line of Scene Queen.

“She’s been a tad unlucky in some of her runs, but she was well suited by the race today,” said John Galvin, after touching down in Melbourne, in readiness to watch stable-mate Leaderboard (Street Cry) contest the $75,000 J. E .H Spencer Memorial Steeplechase (4000m) on Sunday at Pakenham.“She’s got ability and we think she’s got the potential to win black type. We made the decision to take a softer option and by winning the race today, when we were also in the field for NZB Airfreight Stakes (Listed, 1600m), she’s got confidence and valuable ratings points as well. She looked to be in a bit of trouble at the 300m, and George (Rooke) had to come off heels, but she got there in the end and it was a pretty good effort. The Warstep Stakes will be a nice race for her, in a couple of weeks. 2000 metres, she hasn’t run that yet but I don’t think there’s any doubt that she will.”

Commenting on Leaderboard, backing up after comfortably winning the Open Steeplechase 3250m last Sunday at Ballarat, Galvin said: “He’s had a fantastic week. He had a pretty soft run last week, which took nothing out of him, and Mark (Walker) has hardly done anything with him since then. Just ticking over and he went to the beach on Wednesday for a swim in the surf and worked through the sand dunes on Friday. He’s a great jumper, in good form, so we’re pretty confident of him racing well again.”

Star Shadow was strapped by Hunter Durrant. 

Friday Flash – 11th April 2025

Published 11 April 2025

“Leaderboard” – En Route to Steeples Victory Ballarat – 6th April 2025
Will Gordon aboard

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Headline News

Leaderboard brilliant in Ballarat Steeples win – will back up at Pakenham 13th April

Shares available in the jumper Khafeef – zero consideration

NZTR Announces Boost to Jumps Racing Stakes

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Fortuna has six runners this weekend, five in NZ, one in Victoria

Riccarton – Saturday

PORCIA CATONIS will contest the Maiden 1200 down the Riccarton chute – Race 1@ 11.45  in the hands of the talented George Rooke – having just her 3rd race day start and coming off a long break after she went down by a nose on the Riccarton synthetic in December – has ability and a bold run is expected but has drawn wide – TAB Says “beaten a lip at last start, wide draw, win chance for sure ” – showing $6/$2.20

ANGELS WINGS races in the R65 1200 down the Riccarton chute – Race 2 @ 12.20  and will be ridden by Courtney Barnes from the ace barrier –  has been racing well, but without much luck and gets her chance to atone here – TAB Says “can handle all types of footing – drawn the ace – include her everywhere in this field ” – showing $15/$4.40

STAR SHADOW races in the R65 1600 – Race 3 @ 12.52, will be ridden by Courtney Barnes from a mid field barrier –  wasn’t disgraced last time on a heavy track – meets easier company here and is a strong each way chance  TAB Says ” can handle dry and wet ground – can cope this drawing wide ” – showing $3.70/$1.75

VIVACIOUS races in the R75 1400 – Race 5 @ 2pm, will be ridden by Courtney Barnes from   barrier 2 –  a brilliant winner this trip Ashburton in October, she has not had the rub of the green since  –  very talented and has the ability to feature in the finish here -TAB Says “improved effort at last start – well drawn – has won third up ” – showing $8.50/$2.90

Te Rapa – Sunday

COURT OF APPEAL races in the R75 2100 – Race 5 @ 2.40pm, will be ridden by Craig Grylls from   barrier 2 – dominant win at Taupo 1800m late Feb, she was then desperately unlucky Hawera this trip 26th March  –  up in grade here and meets some useful types but is a genuine stayer in the making – bold showing expected -TAB Says “Form hard to fault – will be there at the finish” – Odds not posted yet

Pakenham – Sunday

LEADERBOARD runs in the Open Steeple over 4000m – Race 5 @ 2.55 Aus time (4.55pm NZT) with Will Gordon to ride. Brilliant all the win last Sunday at Ballarat over 3250m  – is a beautiful jumper and no reason why he can not continue on his winning way – Racing.com says “Never in any doubt as a dominant winner at Ballarat – again hard to toss” – No Odds showing yet but he will be short

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Trackwork – Fortuna Runners

Matamata – 8th AprilMitre Peak (A Azrul) galloped over 1000 metres in 1.06.8, home in 38.7.

Court Of Appeal (S Hussain) galloped over an easy 1200 metres in 1.24.6, final 600 in 39.4.
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Other News

Leaderboard brilliant in Ballarat Steeples win – will back up at Pakenham 13th September
 

Warrnambool target for Leaderboard

By

LOVERACING.NZ News Desk

 –

April 7, 2025

Talented steeplechaser Leaderboard is heading towards the Warrnambool carnival in May. Photo: Bruno Cannatelli

Te Akau jumper Leaderboard is set to head to the Warrnambool carnival later this month following his triumph in the Open Steeplechase (3250m) at Ballarat on Sunday.

The 10-year-old son of Street Cry, who is raced by syndicator Fortuna, won seven races on the flat in New Zealand, including the Gr.3 Wellington Cup (3200m) and Listed New Zealand St Leger (2600m).

He then transferred to Te Akau’s Cranbourne base where he has added three further wins to his tally, along with placings in last year’s Grand National Hurdle (4200m) and Grand National Steeplechase (4500m).

Trainer Mark Walker was pleased with his winning performance on Sunday and is looking forward to tackling some feature jumping assignments at Warrnambool, including the Brierley Chase (3450m) and Grand Annual Steeplechase (5500m).

“It was a brilliant win,” Walker said. “He’s a terrific jumper and it’s great to see him back at the races and win the way he did. It’s all systems go towards the Warrnambool carnival, and he looks as though he’s in for another really good season. I’m looking forward to seeing him again at Warrnambool. It’s a unique carnival and it’ll great to be a part of it.”

Prior to the two assignments at Warrnambool, Fortuna’s John Galvin said the plan was for Leaderboard to back-up in the Spencer Memorial Steeplechase (4000m) at Pakenham this coming Sunday.

“I don’t think that will worry him and after that he’ll go to the Warrnambool carnival,” Galvin said. “I think Mark (Walker) has got the base fitness into him. It was a lovely ride by Will (Gordon) and kudos to Mark and Ben (Gleeson, assistant trainer), they’ve prepared the horse beautifully, and Mark loves his jumpers. We’ve owned him since 2018 and he’s a marvel, really. He had a wonderful period of flat racing and was very consistent provided he got yielding tracks, but his future was always going to be as a jumper when he wasn’t so competitive on the flat. Mark’s got a few jumpers in his stable, with Prismatic and The Mighty Spar, and Leaderboard has become the flagbearer with the successes he’s had“

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NZTR Announces Boost to Jumps Racing Stakes

 

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) has announced several enhancements to the prizemoney for Jumps Racing, including immediate increases covering the remainder of the current season (May to July 2025), as well as the full 2025-26 racing calendar. NZTR’s total investment across 18 meetings and 57 Jumps races over this period will reach approximately $2.57 million.

The increases highlight NZTR’s ongoing commitment to the development and promotion of Jumps racing throughout the country.
Highlights of the revised stakes include:

· Uplift in stakes for Feature Steeplechases across the season, with increases ranging from $15,000 to $50,000 per race.

· Restricted Open Jump Races will see stakes boosted from $30,000 to $40,000. In cases where these races are split into separate events for winners and maidens, winners will compete for $40,000, while maidens will race for $20,000.

· The Racecourse Hotel & Motor Lodge 150th Grand National Steeplechase at Riccarton Park on Saturday 9 August celebrates its 150th renewal this year, with the Canterbury Jockey Club set to announce a further stakes increase to this race in the coming weeks.

These new stakes enhancements complement previously announced strategic initiatives, which include:

· A shortened jump racing season comprising 18 racing days, running from 11 May to 21 September 2025, concluding with an exciting two-day event at Te Aroha.

· A strategic shift towards non-Saturday racing days, with nine of the 18 Jumps racing days scheduled for Sundays, along with King’s Birthday Monday and a feature Friday meeting on 19 September for the Great Northern Hurdle.

· Streamlining of venues to improve infrastructure, reducing host venues from previous seasons to seven locations. Notably, Jumps racing will no longer be held at Rotorua or Waverley this season.

· Introduction of the Amateur Series, primarily held at Jumps meetings, concluding with the prestigious Duke of Gloucester Cup on 19 September at Te Aroha.
NZTR Chief Operating Officer Darin Balcombe commented, “These enhancements deliver immediate benefits for participants this season while supporting the ongoing development of Jumps racing. Following our strategic review last year, we’re focused on improving the experience for participants and fans as we head into next season,” he said.

Full details of NZTR’s 2025-26 Jumps Racing Stakes are available to view below.
2025-26 Jumps Racing Stakes

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Shares available in the jumper Khafeef – Zero consideration

Our 9yo Jumper, KHAFEEF, has crossed the Tasman to participate in the lucrative Victorian Jumps scene – however he won’t be joining Leaderboard at Cranbourne but will head to Mornington to be trained by the expat Kiwi and former Jumps riding Champion, Brett Scott – Brett has already had success with another Fortuna runner, ZEDWILLDO and we believe that KHAFEEF, formerly trained in NZ by Kevin Myers, will be well suited by the Brett’s relaxed stable environment at Mornington – 5% of the shares in Khafeef are available for zero consideration and NZ$50 per month from the 1st May – just contact John by email or call 021 921 460 if you have interest – Khafeef has won over the Hurdles and performed well in Steeples races during the 2024 season beaten a short head at Rotorua – he has had a solid preparation in Kevin Myers care since mid December, attending sports days and Gymkhanas, trialed at Foxton on the flat 25th March and is very fit

Khafeef is currently being prepared by Brett for a jumping trial at Terang 17th April and will have another trial two weeks later and then be ready to make his Victorian jumps debut after that

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Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Here is what Des has for our readers this week

Greetings John and Fortuna followers.

Firstly congratulations on Leaderboard’s wonderful return to racing over jumps last Sunday. He’s a great old horse with a  Wellington Cup and NZ St Leger to his name and as a jumper he looks spot on for another good season in Melbourne.

A quick reflection on last week, Islington Lass wasn’t on song and her astute trainer is weighing up her future but it’d be fair to say Nigella Lane was a good thing beaten in the fillies and mares race at Wanganui. She’ll keep,

Let’s look three to follow; not only for Saturday assignments but going forward to the rest of the autumn.

Lantern Way, race 6, Trentham

An ex Hawkes Bay Guineas winner whose form tailed off the spring but there was a lot to like about the resuming run on the track at the end of last month.

Contemplation Bay, race 5 Riccarton

Handles most types of track surfaces; the first two wins of the season were big and is back in class after finishing less than a half length from the runner up in stakes company last time.

Sergeant Major, race 2 Randwick

This ex kiwi is capable of causing a mild upset on Championship Day at Randwick on Saturday. That top 4 run behind a potential super star, Autumn Glow at Rosehill, tells the story.

Thought for the day:  How did that name get through?

I felt sorry for George Simon the other week  when he put the binoculars on race 6 at Tauranga which featured a horse by name of Unodostrescuatro, breaking it down its UNO DOS TRES QUATR0 which most will know is one, two, three and four in Spanish. In the rapid, yet clear and precise delivery George would normally give us he was almost tongue tied while trying to be as fluent as he could possibly be.

Cruel I thought for the caller and very strange  to let a name like this slip past the keeper at NZTR’s horse registration  department .
For the record there are some steadfast rules when it comes to naming your horse
1. names must be no longer than 18 characters including the spaces
2. can’t apply for names whose spelling or pronunciation is similar to names already registered
3. a name cannot be reused until 15 years has passed since the foaling of a similar named horse
4. names of winners of group one races are protected
5. names of stallions cannot be used until 15 years has passed since they last appeared in a stud book

So there are 5 rules – While understanding it’s an owners prerogative on what names or names are jotted down at registration time I think maybe  there should be a 6th rule with one that doesn’t confuse, baffle or muddle a race callers professional delivery by throwing a curve ball with a seemingly tongue-tie-ish name as is the case with the Spanish one-two-three-four!

Ps our Melbourne tour, with Co host Lisa Allpress, is gaining momentum. If you are keen to know more simply email me dcoppins@xtra.co.nz and I’ll put you on to the Sporting Tours operator.
Enjoy the great racing this weekend and good punting!

Des Coppins
021 448 052

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LEADERBOARD kicks off his 2025 Jumps Racing season with dominant 5 length win at Ballarat 6th April

Published 6 April 2025

Perennial teenager Leaderboard (10 g Street Cry – Flower Fairy, by Dynaformer) comfortably won the $35,000 Open Steeplechase (3250m) on 6 April at Ballarat (Victoria). Winner of the Wellington Cup (Gr. 3, 3200m) and the NZ St Leger (Listed, 2600m) when racing on the flat in New Zealand, Leaderboard had taken to the jumping role like a duck to water and ended his previous campaign finishing third in the Grand National Hurdle (4200m) and second in the Grand National Steeplechase (4500m) in Australia.

Following two runs on the flat since resuming, Leaderboard led throughout when winning a 2400-metre Steeplechase trial on 13 March at Cranbourne, and took good fitness levels into the assignment. Ridden by Will Gordon, who had combined with him to finish second in the Australian Hurdle (3900m) last year, Leaderboard assumed the role of pacemaker from the outset, was eagerly looking for his fences, and in the end made light of his 71.5kg to win by five lengths. On Soft6 footing, in the race sponsored by E-cycle Solutions, Leaderboard started second favourite behind runner-up Schabau (Pastorius) and paid $2.80 & $1.60 on the NZ TAB tote.

Click HERE to see Race replay

“It was a brilliant win, today,” said trainer Mark Walker. “He’s a terrific jumper and it’s great to see him back at the races and win the way he did. “It’s all systems go towards the Warrnambool carnival, and he looks as though he’s in for another really good season. I’m looking forward to seeing him again at Warrnambool. It’s a unique carnival and it’ll great to be a part of it.”

Already something of a course specialist at Warrnambool, winning at 3200-metre Hurdle at his first attempt and following with a first and third over 3450 metres in Steeplechases, Leaderboard will now prepare for the $150,000 Brierley Chase (3450m) on Tuesday 29 April, and the $350,000 Grand Annual Steeplechase (5500m) on Thursday 1 May.

Leaderboard in command on his way to Steeples Victory at Ballarat  –  6th April 2025

 

Owned by Fortuna Leaderboard Syndicate (Mgr: John Galvin), he was purchased by John with assistance of International bloodstock agent, Hubie De Burgh, in October 2018 at the Tattersalls Horses in Training Sale in U.K., and his 10 wins have yielded nearly $600,000 in earnings.

Leaderboard has a terrific autumn record, with seven of his 10 wins coming between March and June.

“He’s going great and in really good shape,” John Galvin said. “He had a couple of resuming flat races, where he was outclassed, but he won a Steeplechase trial by eight lengths at Cranbourne, and what he did today wasn’t a surprise. He’s a beautiful jumper. He got a little bit close-in at the fifth (fence) and slightly awkward at the second last, but he controlled the speed, increased the tempo as the race went on, and was too good for them.”

Prior to the two assignments at Warrnambool, Galvin said the plan was for Leaderboard to back-up next Sunday (13 April) in the Spencer Memorial Steeplechase (4000m) at Pakenham.

“I don’t think that will worry him and after that he’ll go to the Warrnambool carnival,” Galvin said. “I think Mark (Walker) has got the base fitness into him. It was a lovely ride by Will (Gordon) and kudos to Mark and Ben (Gleeson), they’ve prepared the horse beautifully, and Mark loves his jumpers. We’ve owned him since 2018 and he’s a marvel, really. He had a wonderful period of flat racing and was very consistent provided he got yielding tracks, but his future was always going to be as a jumper when he wasn’t so competitive on the flat. Mark has got a few jumpers in his stable, with Prismatic and The Mighty Sparat Cranbourne and Leaderboard has become the flagbearer with the successes he’s had.”

The win for Fortuna Racing with Leaderboard came on the back of his stable-mate West Indies  (Fastnet Rock) finishing close third in the Benchmark 64 2025 metres on Friday 4th April at Cranbourne.

“We bought him for the (VRC) Derby, but he wasn’t mature enough to run the 2500 metres out. But, physically, he’s a different horse now. He’s still only a 3yo and got a bright future, I think,” Galvin said. “Providing he trots up well on Monday, the plan is the VRC St Leger (Listed, 2800m) on Anzac Day (25 April) at Flemington.”

Leaderboard is raced by the Fortuna Leaderboard Syndicate, an ownership group of  of 73 individuals, 71 NZ based and 2 based in Australia

Leaderboard was strapped by Hayley Morton.

Leaderboard post race with Hailey Morton – our ever faithful strapper

 

Friday Flash – 4th April 2025

Published 4 April 2025

Court Of Appeal – 2nd career victory – Taupo 26th February 2025 – Masa Hashizume aboard

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Headline News

Leaderboard to have his first Steeples start for new season at Ballarat on Sunday

New International located Horse Initiative for Magic Millions Broodmare Sale

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Fortuna has three runners this weekend


Cranbourne – Friday

WEST INDIES contests the BM64 2050m event – Race 7 @8.15pm Aus time (10.15pm NZT) with the very capable Dan Stackhouse to ride from an outside draw. Resumed off a long break at Kyneton 1850m 20th March with a powerful finish for 3rd placing – tricky barrier here but trackwork has been very good and can feature here with a bit of luck from draw. TAB says “Eye catching run for third on resuming last start – back in good shape and looks tough to beat” – Showing $6.50/$2.30

Wanganui – Saturday

RAGAMUFFIN resumes in the BM75 1350m event – Race 5 @ 2.48pm with Kelly Myers to ride from Barrier 3, – very capable on his day and any rain will not be a problem. TAB says “proven on dry and wet ground – has won fresh up – the tote will be very telling” – Showing $8.50/$2.80

Ballarat – Sunday

LEADERBOARD runs in the Open Steeple over 3250m – Race 2 @ 1.40 Aus time (3.40pm NZT) with Will Gordon to ride. First time over the jumps this season, he has been well prepared with jumpouts, two runs over distance on the flat and won a jumping trial by 7 lengths 13th March – set to deliver a solid performance here – TAB says “Gets a chance to win “- No Odds showing yet

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Trackwork – Fortuna Runners

Matamata – 1st April

No timed work by Fortuna Runners today

Riccarton – 1st April

Angels Wings (H Durrant)  galloped over an easy 800 metres in 1.11.7, home in 38.6.

Star Shadow (K Hadler) worked over an easy 1200 metres in 1.28.7, final 600 in 36.9.

Cranbourne  – 1st April

West Indies (S Duric) and Leaderboard (C Wilson) worked over 1600 metres in 1.45.7, final 600 in 36.9.

Titahi Bay (C Anderson) galloped over an easy 800 metres in 57.4, home in 36.9.

Matamata – 3rd April

Court Of Appeal (O Bosson) galloped over an easy 1200 metres in 1.24.7, final 600 in 39.9.

Riccarton – 3rd April
No timed work by Fortuna Runners today

Cranbourne – 3rd April
No timed work by Fortuna Runners today

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Other News

Leaderboard to have his first Steeples start for new season at Ballarat on Sunday

Originally Leaderboard was due to have his first start over steeples at Warrnambool Friday, the 28th of March, however a sore foot in the days before the race saw us pull him out of that race and delay his start until the Ballarat meeting this coming Sunday. He is now fully over the sore foot, galloped beautifully on Tuesday morning over a mile in company with the 3yo West Indies and is all set to resume over the jumps at Ballarat in what will be his second full season of jumps racing in Victoria

His debut season over there saw him start seven times over the jumps with two wins and five minor placings, all in very good company and he has had a perfect preparation for the jumping season with jumpouts, two flat races over distance and he won a jumping trial at Cranbourne by seven lengths in mid March. Safely through Sunday’s run he will back up at Pakenham the following Sunday 13th April in an Open Steeple over 3200 metres and then we will head to the time honoured Warrnambool Carnival, where the plan is for him to run in the Brierly Chase over 3450m on the first day (29th of April) and then back up into the Grand Annual Steeples with its stern test of 5500m  on day three (1st May)

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New International located Horse Initiative for Magic Millions Broodmare Sale

 

From The Straight News 3rd April 2025

In May last year, New Zealand trainer, breeder and industry all-rounder Jim Wallace sold his dual Oaks winner Pennyweka at the Inglis Chairman’s Sale for $1.6 million.

Nearly three weeks later, another New Zealand industry icon, Te Akau’s David Ellis, traded in 10-time Group 1 winner Imperatriz for an Australasian record price of $6.6 million at the Magic Millions National Sale. Both mares were bought by Yulong’s Zhang Yuesheng.

Pennyweka, the New Zealand Oaks and Australian Oaks winner of 2023, was paraded at Inglis’ Riverside Stables complex in Sydney and was one of nine $1 million mares to change hands at last year’s Inglis’ annual breeding stock sale night of nights. Then, when it was Imperatriz’s time to be sold late on May 28, 2024, Ellis and his wife Karyn Fenton-Ellis were at Magic Millions’ Bundall complex on the Gold Coast, but their immensely valuable daughter of I Am Invincible was not.

With five of her 10 career Group 1s achieved in season 2023-24, all in Melbourne including the Lightning and a second William Reid earlier that autumn, Imperatriz was instead resting in a paddock at Ellis’ Te Akau Stud in New Zealand none the wiser as to what all the fuss was about. There was vision shown of her parading, but it was not in Australia, let alone in the state of Queensland, as bids came from people such as Coolmore’s Tom Magnier and online from eventual buyer Zhang.

And her absence was for many reasons, not least of all because if she was at Bundall, 10 per cent of her valuation at the time of her flight from Auckland to Australia would have been payable in GST by her syndicate of owners. That GST component on Imperatriz once she was imported to Australia after being sold for the benchmark amount of $6.6 million was instead borne by Zhang’s Yulong Investments. In contrast, Wallace and his co-owners of Pennyweka were subjected to paying a GST amount based on a valuation provided by an authorised industry expert, such as a Federation of Bloodstock Agents Australia (FBAA) member.

Despite bearing the financial impost, as well as her flight costs of several thousands of dollars, the fact Pennyweka paraded directly in front of the buying bench may have elicited extra bids and more than covered that additional expense incurred by the mare’s group of owners.
“Rightly or wrongly, (we thought) she might be better off facing the market in Australia,” Wallace said on Wednesday. “That sale is very well promoted and it’s got a lot of hype around it and we thought it was a good place to (sell Pennyweka).”

In response to the market, and with the surety the sale of Imperatriz has given Magic Millions, four New Zealand-based mares – three for Te Akau as well as multiple Group winner Babylon Berlin – will be offered in absentia at this year’s National Sale.

The new International Section, announced by the company on Tuesday, will be held after its opening race fillies and mares session on May 27.

Magic Millions managing director Barry Bowditch believes the initiative appeals not only to owners of New Zealand-based race fillies and mares, but also to sellers in the northern hemisphere. “There’s obviously mares all over the world that suit Australia and there are mares on the other side of the world who are in foal to some really hot horses to southern hemisphere time and this initiative gives (breeders) an opportunity to sell into the Australian market, as it does the New Zealanders,” Bowditch told The Straight. “Given the fact this is a live sale, it’ll be a hugely attended sale from both the domestic and international market. It’s a very commercial catalogue, so that gives those sellers the best of both worlds that even if, unfortunately, they can’t get their horse here, they still can play in that market and sell within it. We’re excited by it. We thought it’s a good little concept and a good section to promote.”

In an ultra-competitive market between the two major Australian sales companies, especially when it comes to broodmares, every little edge can help.

Te Akau has committed Group 1 Zabeel Classic winner Campionessa (Contributer), a half-sister to stakes winners Leedox and Tennessee, Group 2 winner Wolverine (Tivaci) and Millefiori (Iffraaj), a stakes-performed half-sister to Group 1 winner Gringotts and from the family of Winx, to the new session. “These are mares with outstanding race records, pedigrees and potential, and we’re confident they’ll appeal to both domestic and international breeders via this proven platform,” Ellis said.

The Ben and Ryan Foote-trained seven-year-old mare Babylon Berlin will also go under the hammer during the same abridged afternoon international session. A daughter of All Too Hard and a half-sister to Group 3 winner Darci Be Good, Babylon Berlin won seven stakes races and was four times Group 1-placed.

As for the tax implications of the mares sold in absentia, the buyers will almost certainly be commercial breeders who are eligible to claim back the GST paid when they bring them into Australia to go to stud.
“It’s a very commercial catalogue, so that gives those sellers the best of both worlds that even if, unfortunately, they can’t get their horse here, they still can play in that market and sell within it,” Magic Millions managing director Barry Bowditch 

Owners of horses imported to the country on a temporary basis who subsequently leave again in less than 12 months, such as last week’s Flemington Listed winner Alabama Lass, are not subjected to the GST payment when they exit Australia. The prices of horses bought at public auction, such as the New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Yearling and Ready to Run sales, are used by customs to calculate the GST payable when imported to Australia by those new owners.

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Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Here is what Des has for our readers this week

Greetings John and Fortuna followers
It’s that time of the year when track conditions will more than likely contain moisture content. While some people may shut up shop over the next three or four months others see the wet tracks as a pleasant challenge and are prepared to take on the task with no fear. I’m a bit like like that.  Sifting through form lines when faced with “off tracks” can often result in decent prices and I’d like to think that putting in that extra effort with the form lines when the weather may deteriorates and alter  track conditions in just a few hours will continue to pay off.
Racehorses are generally seasonal and the form at this stage of the year has a cross over effect. The summer horses are ready to rest but are maybe kept in work in case they continue to score a decent track. In the meantime the mid autumn and early winter gallopers are starting to rev up and they are the sort of horses, who maybe showed form this time last year, worthy of your hard earned.
Here are three who are worth a look this Saturday at Wanganui and highly recommended to stay with over the next couple of months if you don’t get a result this time.Islington Lass, race 4

It may well be her last season but she’s going to win a race or three if her last couple of seasons are anything to go on.
She hasn’t raced since January but she had a decent jump out on her home track recently and that should top her off nicely.
She always comes to hand quickly.
She won first up after a 3 month break last year almost to the day and then finished second and won at Trentham the start following.

Jestin Case, race 5

Between March and July last term this runner had two wins, 4 seconds and a 6th from just 7 outings. Her two wins were on a soft 6 at Otaki and a soft 7 here at Wanganui. Her last two runs have been on tracks that are clearly too firm but she was good enough to run third behind a couple of handy types at Otaki on a good track in February.
Interestingly she’s only had one run on the track for that win last May.
As I write this she’s 16 to one. It’s a fairly handy field but you could do a lot worse if you are planning on a small each way bet.

Nighella Lane, race 7

While at the weights Our Jumala looks hard to topple but don’t  be too surprised if Nighella Lane can’t peg back the favourite she lobs into the quinella spot.
She’s won 5 times on rain affected tracks; twice from 3 starts when it’s heavy.
Kelly Myers has made the trip from the north to partner her and she’s won on the mare before. For the record Nighella Lane has won 3 times  in the April , May and June period on varying wet surfaces. I’d be surprised if she doesn’t run a race.

Anyone interested in joining Lisa Allpress and me on the Sporting Tours Melbourne Cup tour this year feel free to drop me an email dcoppins@xtra.co.nz.
It’s great to have multiple premiership winning jockey Lisa Allpress on board for the first time. For me, it’s number 34 but mixing and mingling with new people as well as reacquainting with so many regulars is something I never get tired of.
Good punting folks!
Des Coppins
021 448 052


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Friday Flash – 28th March 2025

Published 28 March 2025

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Court Of Appeal – 2nd career victory – Taupo 26th February 2025 – Masa Hashizume aboard

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Headline News

Yearling Colt by Nicconi – half brother to Bellatrix Star shines at the breakers

Newly appointed Entain General Manager, Sam Moncur, present his first Entain Edition

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Fortuna has one runner this weekend

Tauranga – Sunday

INCA BELLE runs in the R65 1200m event – Race 8 @4.57 pm  with stable apprentice Hayley Hassman, claiming 4kgs, to ride from Barrier 10 – racing consistently well this prep without winning, her record at Tauranga is very good – form cannot be faulted, gets good weight relief here, but draw is tricky and will need some luck in the running. TAB says “Super course form –  must respect in this event” – No Odds  Showing Yet

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Trackwork – Fortuna Runners

Matamata – 25th March

Inca Belle (O Bosson)  galloped over 1000 metres in 1.05.4, home in 36.3.

Riccarton – 25th March

Porcia Catonis (H Durrant) worked over an easy 1000 metres in 1.11.7, home in 40.8.

Cranbourne  – 25th March

Leaderboard (M Hofmann) and Dreamflight (C Wilson) worked over 1600 metres  in 1.48.7, final 600 in 37.2.

Matamata – 27th March

Mitre Peak (A Azrul) galloped over 1000 metres in 1.08.7, home in 38.7.

Malborough Bay (G Rooke) worked over 1000 metres in 1.07.9, home in 38.1.

Riccarton – 27th March

Porcia Catonis (H Durrant) worked over an easy 1000 metres in 1.11.7, final 600 in 38.9.

Star Shadow (H Durrant) worked at three quarter pace over 1200 metres in 1.28.7, home in 42.6.

Angels Wings (H Durrant) worked at three quarter pace over 1000 metres in 1.13.5, last 600 in 41.1.

Cranbourne – 27th March

Titahi Bay (S Duric) worked over 800 metres in 58.4, home in 39.2.

West Indies (S Duric)  worked over 1200 metres in 1.28.7, final 600 in 38.2.

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Other News


Yearling Colt by Nicconi – half brother to Bellatrix Star shines at the breakers

This lovely Colt is turning a few heads at Marty Lacey’s breaking in property in Victoria – a “flashy” chestnut with distinctive markings, he is handling his breaking in process with aplomb – bred to be an “early” runner, he is wasting no time in his early education – Click HERE to see some great footage of him at the breakers on Wednesday with comments from Marty Lacey

Just 14% of the shares left in this Colt  – Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be made from this link

Here are some key points about this opportunity below – should not be missed – shares filling steadily but still available

  • Strong, powerful, well developed Colt who will run early
  • Potential Stallion at Stud prospect
  • By a well proven Stallion in Nicconi, the sire of the Multiple Group One and Everest winner, Nature Strip – Nicconi in his long career at Stud has thrown 70% winners to runners including 29 Stakes winners
  • A half brother to the brilliant Bellatrix Star, the winner of 5 races including 4 Stakes races, three of those in succession in Melbourne, – with two wins at Group 2 level, one at Group 3 and one Listed as well as running 2nd to Switzerland in the Group One Coolmore Stakes at Flemington
  • Will be prepared for racing by Mark Walker out of the Te Akau Racing Cranbourne facility in Victoria
  • His Breeders have retained 25% and so this Colt will race in a Partnership with our Fortuna Syndicate holding 75% of the horse and the Breeders 25%
  • Despite the partnership arrangement, he will race in the Fortuna Silks and Fortuna (John Galvin) will be the Racing Manager with full powers over the partnership as per the Syndicate Agreement

He will be nominated for the very lucrative Inglis Race Series (including the Pink Bonus) – Click HERE to read full details of that Series

Click HERE to see his presale parade.

 

Yearling Colt by Nicconi out of Alana’s Party

 

  • Shares available right down to 1%.
  • 10% share $23,000, 5% share $11,500, 2.5% share $5,750, 1% share $2,300 – with ongoing costs from 1 May 2025 @$50 per month per each 1% share
Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be made from this link

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Newly appointed Entain General Manager, Sam Moncur, present his first Entain Edition
 

Entain Edition
Welcome to March’s Entain Edition

I’m pleased to introduce this edition to you, having taken on the role of Chief Financial Officer of Entain Australia and New Zealand and Managing Director – New Zealand earlier this month, following on from almost two years as Entain ANZ’s Deputy Chief Financial Officer.

If we haven’t met previously, here is a little more information about me. Prior to our Strategic Partnering arrangement with TAB NZ taking effect in June 2023, I was lucky enough to spend 10 years in the TAB NZ business in financial and operational roles, covering the breadth of our business in New Zealand.

Along the way, I have had oversight and leadership of the retail and broadcasting operations of the business, so it’s timely that this update includes a section on the big improvements we’re making to our retail and on-course network over the coming months.

In this update, there’s news around our Trackside Media slot runner in this year’s Kia Quokka in Perth, a reflection on the outstanding Barfoot & Thompson Champions Day at Ellerslie, a look ahead at the Night Of Champions, and a team profile from Trackside’s Executive Producer, Scott Freeman.

Please share or forward this newsletter to anyone in the industry who you think might like to read this. They can sign up to receive the Entain Edition directly by contacting communications@entaingroup.co.nz. If you no longer wish to receive this newsletter, please contact the same address.
Thanks for reading.

Sam Moncur,
Managing Director – New Zealand
Entain Australia and New Zealand

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Making News
Crocetti confirmed for The KIA Quokka

Earlier today, we shared the exciting news that Crocetti will run in the Trackside NZ/Perth Racing slot in the A$5m slot race, The KIA Quokka.

Crocetti was the winner of this year’s Sport Nation NZ Champion Sprint Series, so it was a great outcome when owner and co-breeder Daniel Nakhle and the rest of the Crocetti team confirmed they were keen to take up our invitation.

He’s delivered on the New Zealand stage, so look out Perth on April 26!

Read more at entaingroup.co.nz/news and take in the Crocetti hype reel below with exactly one month to go until the big race.
Crocetti - Quokka
New and improved TAB experience is arriving

It was a milestone day for our New Zealand retail customers on Monday last week (17 March), with the first of many installations of our brand-new technology taking place at Manukau City TAB.

For the combined Retail, Product, Design, NZ Operations and Development teams, this is a big moment. A world-class wagering experience for more than 450 TAB venues and pubs and clubs in New Zealand with brand-new technology is set to be rolled out over the coming months, and we’re already more than a week into the installations.

The new terminals deliver an outstanding experience for TAB customers across all channels, and customers are now able to seamlessly move from betting through the TAB App and tab.co.nz, to their visits to our retail outlets.

Our racing and sports fans know the fun of celebrating a win with their friends, whether that’s in a TAB retail store or a pub or club with TAB facilities, and now everything a TAB customer could do through the app or tab.co.nz is now possible in retail.

Find out more at entaingroup.co.nz/news, and for a look at the past and the future, check out the below.
New TAB Retail Experience
Champions Day & The NZB Kiwi hit huge heights

The atmosphere at Barfoot & Thompson Champions Day earlier this month was electric, and that has been reflected in some outstanding figures, thanks to the hard work from our team at Entain Australia & New Zealand alongside Auckland Thoroughbred Racing, NZ Thoroughbred Racing and New Zealand Bloodstock.

The 10-race card recorded turnover of $7.98m, the second highest total ever in New Zealand, and up 77% on the corresponding Auckland Cup meeting last year.

Importantly, almost 55,000 customers placed a bet on the meeting through TAB and betcha – the highest ever achieved for a New Zealand race meeting – and The NZB Kiwi’s high profile through media and marketing activity attracted more than 37,000 active customers on the new slot race – the most for a thoroughbred race in New Zealand in the past 12 months.

The first running of The NZB Kiwi had turnover of $1.38m, instantly placing it third on the list of the biggest New Zealand races by turnover in the past 12 months, while all four Group 1 races recorded increases in both active customers and turnover. The racing industry and our New Zealand customers have embraced the concept of Champions Day incredibly quickly. The opportunity for growth into 2026 and beyond is very exciting.

Capture the essence of the day through this great highlight video from the Trackside team.
Champions Day Review
The Race by betcha breaking new ground 

The Night of Champions continues to grow as a key event on the harness racing calendar, and this year, there’s a step into new territory for our betting brand, betcha. The $1m slot pacing race, The Race by betcha, will be the first venture into major race sponsorship for the new betting brand on the block. The race, and the whole race night, has captured the attention of a similar demographic to our betcha customers, so there is a natural alignment between The Race and betcha.

The race is shaping up brilliantly, with Miracle Mile winner Don Hugo, multiple Group 1 winner Merlin, this summer’s star Republican Party, and outstanding mare Duchess Megxit all confirmed runners so far, with the promise of some other top-drawer pacers to come. Find out more about the night, including the TAB Trot, on the Night of Champions website, with The Race by betcha futures market currently available at betcha.co.nz.
Racing Her Way shines on Champions Day

Our third Racing Her Way event on Barfoot & Thompson Champions Day was a resounding success, delighting guests with a unique and memorable experience. Held on Tier 1 of the Champagne Lawn at Ellerslie, the event featured a stunning long-lunch setup that provided the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of glamour, excitement, and racing insights.

The ever-charismatic Laura McGoldrick returned to host the event, joined by an impressive lineup of special guests, including Courtney Tairi, Storm Purvis, and Lulu Wilcox, among others.

Guests enjoyed an exclusive viewing of the Ned Prix de Fashion finalists, showcasing the very best of race day style and sophistication and also picked up some betting tips to add to the fun of the day. They also headed out to the starting gates, getting up close to the action as horses and jockeys thundered out of the gates.

In-form jockey Sam Spratt made a special appearance, sharing her racing insights and even tipping a winner on the card, much to the delight of the attendees.

The Racing Her Way movement continues to grow in popularity, providing opportunities to celebrate and empower women in the racing industry. It’s about bringing more people into the racing world, creating unforgettable moments, and showcasing the magic of the sport from a fresh perspective.
Champions Day
News in brief:

  • The 2025 edition of the Industry Excellence Awards, powered by Entain, will soon be open for nominations. Stay tuned in early April for more information around how to nominate an emerging leader or rising star of the racing industry under the age of 40. You can also keep an eye on updates at entaingroup.co.nz/industryawards.
Entain team profile

Name: Scott Freeman
Role: Executive Producer, Trackside
Time with Entain: 22 months

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Racing interests:

I’m a punting tragic and TAB Lifer due to a misspent youth and my family influences. Grandma had a TAB, Mum had a TAB, and many close family friends have worked in the game. I spent many hours as a young ’un putting up sheets, results, red-stamping scratchings, tidying up losing tickets and ashtrays – the good old days.

What excites you about the strategic partnership?

Trackside’s transformation under the strategic partnership has been remarkable and rapid. Our quality of coverage across shows, live broadcasts, digital and short form is again world-class with Trackside’s Champions Day campaign the most complete I have been involved. To be able to build on that across the platforms we have with the talent we have is truly exciting for us and the industry.

The race event I’m most looking forward to?

As my long-suffering wife says: “there’s always another big race to work on”. I can’t wait for Night of Champions, The Championships and the Quokka but if pressed for just one, a horse I own an eyelash in, Poukawa will step up to a mile in the Rating 65 at Whanganui on April 5, so I’m looking forward to that.
BY THE NUMBERS: Feb 2025
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Pipitea, Wellington, 6011, NZ

Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Here is what Des has for our readers this week

Greetings John and the Fortuna Team
We’re in for another big weekend of racing spearheaded by the group one Sires Produce Stakes Day at Trentham. The Trentham venue has had a busy old time of it in recent months but has stood up remarkably well and with Awapuni resting for another month or so the very important two year old race is a big welcome to the capital.We’ve witnessed some excellent two year old racing this season and rest assured the excitement will continue on Saturday.

Landlock, Courtesy Ford Sires Produce 

My pick for the race is the Cody Cole trained Landlock who has continued to improve with each outing. The last run was an absolute beauty and he  may well have been dead stiff not to claim the odds on pop, Return to Conquer.
While the tangerine of Te Akau have dominated all the major two year old races this season at Matamata and Ellerslie Landlock could crack their safe on the back of his experience at Trentham ( 2 outings) and the last start massive run and add another big race win for the young but very promising trainer, Cody Cole.

Who Knows, race 4 Trentham

She was lightly tried in her second preparation which resumed with a win over 1600m at Woodville and maintained consistency with 5 top 4 placings in as many starts. She’s had two trials and she’s ready to go!
In saying this whatever she does over the 1600m she will definitely improve upon and please mark her down as one to follow right through the autumn and winter. There’s a decent race in her this year.

Love Symbol, race 3 Te Aroha

She may have lacked maturity last year but that didn’t stop her running a couple of handy races from her 7 starts including two placings on the Te Aroha track.
She cruised along outside the leader the other week in a trial at Ellerslie. She was in a deadheat for first but was clearly going the better than the other horse all the way up the straight.
She’s forward and ready to go close.

Melbourne Cup Tour 2025.

If the Melbourne Cup is on your bucket list we would love to have you join Lisa Allpress and myself for this years event. It’ll be by 34th and it’s so good to have Lisa join me as Co tour leader for her first  with the tour company, Sporting Tours.
Check out the flyer and feel free to call me on 021 448052 or the freephone number as per the flyer.

Des Coppins
021 448 052

Here is Des Melbourne Cup flyer below – we have had several of the Fortuna clients participate in Des’ Melbourne Cup Tour in recent years (and some have been on multiple occasions) and all report a great experience. Lisa Allpress as Des’ co-host this year should prove a welcome addition to the experience

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Friday Flash – 21 March 2025

Published 21 March 2025

Court Of Appeal – 2nd career victory – Taupo 26th February 2025 – Masa Hashizume aboard

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Headline News

Stallion making opportunity – Yearling Colt by Nicconi – half brother to Bellatrix Star

Busy week coming up with four trialists at Taupo and one at Ricarton on Tuesday and Leaderboard to have his first Steeples start for the new season on Friday

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Fortuna has two runners Friday/Saturday

Terang – Friday

COLOUR SERGEANT has his first start in the Fortuna Silks at Terang in the the BM 58 1406m event – Race 7 @4.50 pm Aus time (6.50 pm NZT)  with stable apprentice Sage Duric, claiming 3kgs, to ride from Barrier 6 – this seven year old by Kingman has had four career wins and was acquired by us as a tried horse from an Inglis Digital Sale in November as a future jumping prospect – had a strong jumpout at Cranbourne on Monday for a 3rd placing – is ready for this but would appreciate some rain – TAB says “Has won previously first up – capable of a bold return” –  Showing $7/$2.10

Riccarton – Saturday

VIVACIOUS contests the R75 1200m down the Riccarton Chute – Race 9 @ 4.10 with Courtney Barnes to ride from Barrier 15 on a track rated Heavy 10 Thursday afternoon – very capable but heavy track is a query – TAB says “Has won and placed when second up – wide draw but can cope – must include” –  Showing $16/$4.80

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Trackwork – Fortuna Runners

Matamata – 18th March

Marlborough Bay (E Rika)  galloped over 1000 metres in 1.04.3, last 600 in 36.5.

Mitre Peak (A Azurl)  galloped over an easy 1000 metres in 1.09.2, last 600 in 38.3.
Riccarton – 18th March

Cranbourne  – 18th March

West Indies (S Duric) galloped over an easy 1200 metres in 1.30.4, last 600 in 39.7.

Matamata – 20th March

Court Of Appeal (S Hussain) galloped over an easy 1200 metres in 1.25.4, home in 40.3.

Cranbourne – 20th March

Leaderboard (L Winks) galloped over an easy 1600 metres in 1.48.4, last 600 in 41.6.

 

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Other News

Stallion making opportunity – Yearling Colt by Nicconi – half brother to Bellatrix Star

There is quite a bit of excitement in the Fortuna camp with our new acquisition, the Nicconi – Alanana’s Party Colt, the half brother to Bellatrix Star  – excitement because he is a Colt, is going to be an early runner and because he is so forward, he went straight from the Sales grounds to our breaker, Matt Lacey and has just completed his first week there – HERE is some footage of him at the breakers

Excitement also because he has a 4yo full brother in Hong Kong, Country Dancer, who has won two races up there – Click HERE to see footage of him winning his 1st race there. This is a 1000 meter race and he is the horse in the red and black colours out the back in the early running – as you will see he has an amazing turn of foot closing stages – very reminiscent of the way that Bellatrix Star has been able to finish her races off – and Click HERE to see win #2

Here are some key points about this opportunity below – should not be missed – shares filling steadily but still available

  • Strong, powerful, well developed Colt who will run early
  • Potential Stallion at Stud prospect
  • By a well proven Stallion in Nicconi, the sire of the Multiple Group One and Everest winner, Nature Strip – Nicconi in his long career at Stud has thrown 70% winners to runners including 29 Stakes winners
  • A half brother to the brilliant Bellatrix Star, the winner of 5 races including 4 Stakes races, three of those in succession in Melbourne, – with two wins at Group 2 level, one at Group 3 and one Listed as well as running 2nd to Switzerland in the Group One Coolmore Stakes at Flemington
  • Will be prepared for racing by Mark Walker out of the Te Akau Racing Cranbourne facility in Victoria
  • His Breeders have retained 25% and so this Colt will race in a Partnership with our Fortuna Syndicate holding 75% of the horse and the Breeders 25%
  • Despite the partnership arrangement, he will race in the Fortuna Silks and Fortuna (John Galvin) will be the Racing Manager with full powers over the partnership as per the Syndicate Agreement

He will be nominated for the very lucrative Inglis Race Series (including the Pink Bonus) – Click HERE to read full details of that Series

Click HERE to see his presale parade.

 

Yearling Colt by Nicconi out of Alana’s Party

 

  • Shares available right down to 1%.
  • 10% share $23,000, 5% share $11,500, 2.5% share $5,750, 1% share $2,300 – with ongoing costs from 1 May 2025 @$50 per month per each 1% share
Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be made from this link

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Busy week coming up with four trialists at Taupo on Tuesday, one at Riccarton the same day and Leaderboard to have his first Steeples start for the new season on Friday

Two two year olds, Emma Twigg (El Roca) and Silky As (Written Tycoon) will have trials outing at Taupo and will be joined by Mitre Peak having her 2nd trial this prep and Malborough Bay, having his first and at Riccarton Queen Consort trials after resuming from a spell

Across the Tasman the veteran 10yo and former Wellington Cup winner, Leaderboard, resumes over the big fences contesting the Open Steeples at Warrnambool over 3850 metres – twice a winner at this venue in 2024, he was a strong seven length winner at the Cranbourne Jumps trials last week – he has a big season on jumps racing planned and his connections keenly await his return to the jumping discipline

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Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Here is what Des has for our readers this week

Greetings John and Fortuna fans.

The hot racing continues at Trentham on Saturday with a great spread from horses from both islands and I roughly counted 57 from stables north of Taupo that’ll be represented. It’s hardly surprising bearing in mind there’s almost $2m in stakes on offer and the first million dollar Oaks as a real drawcard.

The St Leger has attracted the best field for years as well. To have this seasons three big Cup winners, Mehzebeen ( NZ Cup); Wolfgang ( Wellington Cup) and Trav ( Auckland Cup) engaged tells the story and it also begs the question why, oh why, doesn’t such a time honoured retain  black type status?

Track conditions will be interesting. The on and off rain on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday did the track the world of good and a 22 degree sunny day on Friday will assist in absorbing the moisture and while it was a soft 7 on Thursday afternoon chances are it’ll be hovering around the 5 penetrometer read I’m picking come start time on Saturday.

Here are three horses worthy of due consideration.

This Time Girl, the NZ Oaks.

It will come as a complete surprise if glamour filly Leica Lucy is beaten but something has to run second and quinella hunters could do a lot worse than banking on This Time Girl to fill that position.
She was big at New Plymouth and even bigger at Ellerslie last time in the Sunline when running second after changing ground in the straight to gain clear air and rattling home.

December, Lightning Handicap.

He’s won 4 races in 10 starts but with an ounce of luck it could’ve been 6 or 7 wins.
He was huge last time at Matamata and the finishing burst he has will be a big plus in a swift 1200m over the wide open spaces at Trentham. The cut in the ground is also a plus for him. He’s up in class but he’s equal to the task. The fact that he’s drawn wide might play into his hands as the last race on the programme. He will get back but I’m expecting to see a strong finish again.

My Lips Are Sealed , Cuddle Stakes.

She was terrific winning the inaugural Phar Lap Trophy ( ex Anniversary) on the track over the Cup meeting and her performance behind Legarto and company at Matamata the other week was huge and in fact she finished the race the quickest and almost a half second quicker than Legarto over the last 200m. She adores cut in the ground. I like her a lot.
Good punting!

Des Coppins
021 448 052

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Friday Flash – 14th March 2025

Published 14 March 2025

Court Of Appeal – 2nd career victory – Taupo 26th February 2025 – Masa Hashizume aboard

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Headline News


Champions Day – huge success on all fronts

Stallion making opportunity – the half brother to Bellatrix Star – and his Hong Kong based full brother, Country Dancer, has now won twice there

Leaderboard wins jumping trial at Cranbourne in dominant fashion

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Fortuna has one runner this weekend


Yarra Valley – Sunday

WEST INDIES will contest the BM 64 1950m event – Race 6 @3.45 pm Aus time (5.45 pm NZT)  with stable apprentice Sage Duric, claiming 3kgs, to ride from Barrier 9 – acquired by us 10 days before the VRC Derby in November, this beautifully bred son of Fastnet Rock finished 13th in that event, but was then immediately spelled and has shown significant physical development since – he has had three jumpouts to prepare for this resuming run and has won his last two jumpouts in impressive fashion – will go close.  Showing $7/$2.25

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Trackwork – Fortuna Runners

Matamata – 11th March
Court Of Appeal (S Hussain) worked over 1200 metres in 1.19.6, home in 36.2.

Riccarton – 11th March

Angels Wings (H Durrant) galloped over 1000 metres in 1.05.6, last 600 in 37.2.

Porcia Catonis (D Rose-Tait) galloped over 1000 metres in 56.7, home in 36.9.

Cranbourne  – 11th March

Dreamflight (C Wilson) 1200 1.27.2, last 600 in 38.1

Matamata – 13th March

Mitre Peak (A Azrul)  galloped over 1000 metres in 1.08,4, last 600 in 38.5.

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Other News

Champions Day – huge success on all fronts

Sell out crowd, great racing, perfect weather, huge increase in betting turnover, significant Australian presence with horses, riders and attendees – this day marked another milestone in the current renaissance of NZ Racing, attracting significant interest from Mainstream media and significant International exposure as well.

I see the TAB figures every week and the most striking was the increase in the number of people making a  bet – on a typical Saturday Premier meeting the number is usually around 30,000, but Champions Day saw over 54,000 place a bet, with 37,000 placing a bet on the NZ Kiwi, making it the most popular betting race in the past 12 months – and our good friends at Te Akau Racing made it a day to remember winning the Group One 2yo race with Return To Conquer and then taking out the NZ Kiwi with Damask Rose, who won the race holding the Te Akau Slot

Below is the summary from the TAB

Champions Day, with four Group Ones, the Group 2 Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup and two Group 3s, returned impressive figures across the board. In all, 54,500 customers placed a bet through TAB or betcha on the meeting, the highest ever number of active customers through digital channels on a New Zealand meeting since these records began. As a comparison to last year’s Auckland Cup meeting (which also included the Bonecrusher NZ Stakes and the Sistema Stakes), 66% more customers engaged with this year’s meeting than 2024.

Turnover reached almost $8 million for the 10-race card, topping out at $7.98m. This was a 77% increase on last year’s total of $4.5m and installs the meeting as the top NZ meeting by turnover in the past 12 months, and the second highest NZ meeting ever.

Turning to the four Group Ones, all four races recorded increases in both active customers and turnover. The Trackside NZ Derby and Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes recorded 7% and 8% increases in turnover respectively, while the HKJC World Pool NZ Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes performed well after being moved from the 30 March meeting last year with a 38% increase in turnover. The Sistema Stakes performed particularly strongly, with turnover of $693k, up 74% on 2024 with 11 starters this year compared to eight last year.

There is no direct comparison for The NZB Kiwi, but the race’s high profile through media and marketing activity attracted more than 37,000 active customers – the most for a thoroughbred race in New Zealand in the past 12 months. Turnover of $1.38m places The NZB Kiwi at 3rd on the top 10 NZ races by turnover since this time last year.

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Stallion making opportunity – the half brother to Bellatrix Star – and his Hong Kong based full brother, Country Dancer has now won twice there

There is quite a bit of excitement in the Fortuna camp with our new acquisition, the Nicconi – Alanana’s Party Colt, the half brother to Bellatrix Star  – excitement because he is a Colt, is going to be an early runner and because he is so forward, he went straight from the Sales grounds to our breaker, Matt Lacey and has just completed his first week there – HERE is some footage of him at the breakers

Excitement also because he has a 4yo full brother in Hong Kong, Country Dancer, who has won two races up there – Click HERE to see footage of him winning his 1st race there. This is a 1000 meter race and he is the horse in the red and black colours out the back in the early running – as you will see he has an amazing turn of foot closing stages – very reminiscent of the way that Bellatrix Star has been able to finish her races off – and Click HEREto see win #2

Here are some key points about this opportunity below – should not be missed – shares filling steadily but still available

  • Strong, powerful, well developed Colt who will run early
  • Potential Stallion at Stud prospect
  • By a well proven Stallion in Nicconi, the sire of the Multiple Group One and Everest winner, Nature Strip – Nicconi in his long career at Stud has thrown 70% winners to runners including 29 Stakes winners
  • A half brother to the brilliant Bellatrix Star, the winner of 5 races including 4 Stakes races, three of those in succession in Melbourne, – with two wins at Group 2 level, one at Group 3 and one Listed as well as running 2nd to Switzerland in the Group One Coolmore Stakes at Flemington
  • Will be prepared for racing by Mark Walker out of the Te Akau Racing Cranbourne facility in Victoria
  • His Breeders have retained 25% and so this Colt will race in a Partnership with our Fortuna Syndicate holding 75% of the horse and the Breeders 25%
  • Despite the partnership arrangement, he will race in the Fortuna Silks and Fortuna (John Galvin) will be the Racing Manager with full powers over the partnership as per the Syndicate Agreement

He will be nominated for the very lucrative Inglis Race Series (including the Pink Bonus) – Click HERE to read full details of that Series

Click HERE to see his presale parade.

 

Yearling Colt by Nicconi out of Alana’s Party

 

  • Shares available right down to 1%.
  • 10% share $23,000, 5% share $11,500, 2.5% share $5,750, 1% share $2,300 – with ongoing costs from 1 May 2025 @$50 per month per each 1% share
Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be made from this link

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Leaderboard wins jumping trial at Cranbourne in dominant fashion

 

The veteran 10 year old Leaderboard showed his rivals a clean pair of heels over 2800m at the Cranbourne Jumping trials Thursday 13th February – Click HERE to see the trial replays (he is in Heat 7) – note you may need to login to racing.com to see this, but logging is is free

The 2023 Wellington Cup winner had an impressive debut jumping season in Victoria in 2024, never out of the top 3 in seven races over the jumps and winning twice. He has been very well prepared for this jumping season with 4 jumpouts and two flat races and will now have his first race for the new jumping season over the big fences at Warrnambool 28th March, then heads to Pakenham 13th April before heading back to Warrnambool for their iconic 3 day carnival (29th April – 1st May) where he will contest the Brierly Steeples on Day One and back up into the Grand National Steeples on Day 3

Leaderboard – winning at Warrnambool – June 2024

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Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Des certainly made the day for those of our readers who latched onto his Auckland Cup tip, Trav, last week with Trav paying $21 on the tote and delivering some juicy multiples as well

Here is what Des has for our readers this week and note also that he provides some preliminary info on what will be his 36th Melbourne Cup Tour this year

Greetings John and your many readers.

I say this because I reckon a half dozen came up to me at Ellerslie on Saturday and paid a decent compliment on highlighting Trav as the one to beat on last week’s big day at Ellerslie in the column last week.

My subscribers to my racing tipping service gained plenty, too, on a day where quality of racing  matched the tips. Hoping for more of the same in the weeks ahead spearheaded by Oaks Day on Saturday week and the Sires Produce day at Trentham at the end of the month.

Before giving you  three to follow this weekend allow me to announce that while our Sporting Tours Melbourne Tour details will be released shortly I can confirm that champion jockey Lisa Allpress will be my co tour leader this year.

The Sporting Tours group is finalising the final costings which should be available within the next couple of weeks  but if you’d like to be contacted with these details send me an email dcoppins@xtra.co.nz and our experienced tour operators will contact you in the first instance ( simultaneously with our regular clients).
I’m looking forward to my 36th Melbourne Cup tour with wonderful people but naturally excited to have Lisa as part of the team. She’s a true champion both on and off the track.

Three to follow:

Still Bangon race 8 Tauranga

On paper she has looked disappointing this season but I reckon after a freshen up following 4 average runs last spring her two runs lately haven’t been that bad!
She was checked out of the barrier and was off stride here at the end of January but was less than three lengths from the winner and from an awkward draw at Matamata on March 1 she raced three wide at times without cover.
Let’s not forget that she was third in black type company behind subsequent first and second runners in the Oaks; won the Eulogy and ran second in the group two Sir Patrick Hogan. She’s more than capable of turning her form around on Saturday.

Tanganyika, race 3 Tauranga

When running 7th at Ellerslie at the end of the month it marked the first time a top 5 position wasn’t registered.
An average draw may have cost him a length or two and the fact he only finished 2.7 lengths from the winner is proof his ultra consistent record should continue in a race like this where the blinkers are added.

Jolted, race 6, Tauranga

This horse is another who has been floating under the radar with handy but not winning runs lately but I feel this is the sort of race she can spring into action with a bit more purpose.
She’s arguably racing on her favourite track where the record reads a first, second and a third in just three starts. She ran an unlucky third here about this time last year.
Stepping up from 1600 last time to 2100m will suit. I don’t think she will be ridden as close to the pace as she did last time. Clearly she races best when allowed time to find her feet.

Finally, anyone wishing to subscribe to my email tipping service for a special rate of just $150 gst inclusive let me know by email before 8pm Friday and I’ll pass on details.
dcoppins@xtra.co.nz
The $150 will include all this month and April and May with race by race tips and the Best Bet and Value Bet for each meeting. That’s a total of 62 meetings!!
Good punting!

Des Coppins 
021 448 052
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Friday Flash – 7th March 2025

Published 7 March 2025

Court Of Appeal – 2nd career victory – Taupo 26th February 2025 – Masa Hashizume aboard

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Headline News

Champions Day is upon us at Ellerslie on Saturday – and Fortuna Racing has a Group One runner on the day

Stallion making opportunity – the half brother to Bellatrix Star
 

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Fortuna has one runner this weekend

Ellerslie – Saturday

MAROKOPA FALLS will contest the Group One Sistema Stakes – Race 4 @2.13pm with  Liam Riordan to ride from Barrier 4 – a  strong debut winner at Trentham December 7, she then ran third three weeks later at the same venue in the Group 2 Wakefield Stakes after overracing, she was the freshened and resumed at Matamata in the Matamata Breeders Stakes February 15 where she ran 4th. On review she was probably a gallop short at Matamata, has taken significant improvement and blinkers go on – meets stern opposition here, but can make her presence felt from her good draw and at good odds. TAB says “Not too bad so far-well drawn yet again – place or first four at best” – Showing $15/$3.80

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Trackwork – Fortuna Runners

Matamata – 4th March

Marokopa Falls (C Grylls)  galloped over 1000 metres in 1.06.4, home in 37.6.

Riccarton – 4th March

Angels Wings (D Montes de Oca) galloped over 1000 metres in 1.07.4, last 600 in 38.2.

Portia Catonis (C Stumbles) galloped over 800 metres in 57.4, last 600 in 39.2.

Cranbourne  – 5th March

Colour Sergeant (C Wilson)  galloped over 1000 metres in 1.06.7, last 600 in 37.1.

Matamata – 5th March

Inca Belle (C Grylls) galloped over 1200 metres in 1.23.8, final 600 in 38.1.

Matamata – 6th March

Marokopa Falls (C Barnes) worked at three quarter pace over 1000 metres in 1.14.6, final 600 in 41.9.

Riccarton – 6th March

Portia Catonis (C Stumbles) galloped over 1000 metres in 1.09.1, last 600 in 40.6.

Cranbourne – 6th March

West Indies (S Duric) galloped over 1200 metres in 1.24.7, final 600 in 36.9.

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Other News

Champions Day is upon us at Ellerslie on Saturday – and Fortuna Racing has a Group One runner

New Zealand Racing has a long and storied history with many ups and downs over the decades and it’s no secret that the first two decades of the 21st century saw a significant decline in New Zealand Racing, however in the past two years, with the adoption of many of the recommendations from the Messara report and the takeover of the TAB’s betting operations by Entain in 2023, have seen a dramatic turnaround with prize money virtually doubling in that time and a host of new races, revamped programs and other incentives. One of those new races is the NZ Kiwi, a “slot” race run over 1500m for 3yos. With this race set to be run at Ellerslie, Auckland Thoroughbred Racing saw the opportunity to have one major raceday in March grouping together historic races like the NZ Derby, the Auckland Cup, the Bonecrusher Stakes, the Sistema Stakes and the NZ Thoroughbred Breeders Stakes, supported by a strong undercard and the new NZ Kiwi as a centrepiece and renamed the day as “Champions Day”.

Unquestionably this approach has paid off with the race day being a “sell out” and significant publicity and attention from non racing media. The day has also caught the attention of racing authorities across the Tasman with the announcement last week from Racing New South Wales that the winner of the NZ Kiwi would have automatic entry into the rich Golden Eagle run at Rosehill on 1st November

So a wonderful day of racing awaits us and Fortuna Racing will be a participant with our 2yo Filly, Marokopa Falls (Hellbent)to contest the Group One Sistema Stakes on the day – a huge thrill for us and of course, the small army of Syndicate Members (57 individuals), many of whom will be on track. Marokopa Falls was purchased at the Magic Millions National Yearling Sale in June of 2024 for just A$57,500 and came to hand very quickly, winning on debut at Trentham in early December. She is “off the radar” to some extent for this event with media and punter focus on other runners, but as we have reminded her connections, Melody Belle was off the radar as well when she won the 2017 Karaka Million on this track at odds of $33!!! – so I am sure readers will join with John and Jessica in wishing the Marokopa Falls Syndicate Members all the very best on this historic raceday

Here below is a story from the NZ Racing Desk about Champions Day

NZ Racing Desk

The wait is finally over, New Zealand’s biggest ever raceday is here and our country’s best racehorses will assemble at Ellerslie on Saturday for the inaugural $8.2 million Champions Day.

Announced early in 2024, Champions Day will bring together seven Group races, and that’s not including the inaugural running of the NZB Kiwi (1500m), where slot holders across New Zealand, Australia and even further afield have selected their three-year-old to tackle the $3.5 million showpiece.

With the final runner confirmed on Monday, the field is set for the Kiwi, with the Australian raiders Evaporate, Public Attention and Perfumist sure to be a tough trio to beat. Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott have a remarkable four runners in Checkmate, Hankee Alpha, Sethito and Sought After, while the fairytale story out of the South Island is Pivotal Ten, who will be ridden and trained by Canterbury horsewoman Samantha Wynne.

Completing the Kiwi line-up is Marsh pair Penman and Ardalio, Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) winner Damask Rose, First Dance, Domain Ace and late edition Zormella, who replaced stablemate Dealt With after he was ruled out just days out from the feature.

The NZB Kiwi is a big drawcard on Champions Day, but a number of time-honoured features hold pride of place at Ellerslie, arguably none more so than the $1.25 million Gr.1 Trackside New Zealand Derby (2400m).

Mongolian Khan, Silent Achiever, Jimmy Choux and Orchestral are just a small handful of the top-class victors in the Derby, and this year, we have a wide-open contest with all to play for, with Willydoit, Thedoctoroflove, Tuxedo and Oceana Dream all congested atop of the market.

The Group One action will kick-off earlier in the meeting with the stars of the future, the juveniles, chasing top honours in the $550,000 Gr.1 Sistema Stakes (1200m). Te Akau’s glamour colt Return To Conquer will face his stiffest challenge yet after an unbeaten start to his career, with stablemates He Who Dares and the Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m) heroine La Dorada both key rivals.

Promising filly To Cap It All was just short of La Dorada in the Matamata Breeders’ last start, while Lucy In The Sky shouldn’t be underestimated after a dazzling debut in February.

From the babies to the mares, the $600,000 Gr.1 HKJC World Pool New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) has attracted a field matching its elite status. Legarto, the country’s glamour mare is the one to beat, while Belclare will be the one to catch on speed in pursuit of her third-straight title.

The $1 million Gr.1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) may be lighter on numbers, but it is certainly not on quality, with a showdown not to be missed between the airborne El Vencedor, a resurgent Orchestral and the ultra-consistent La Crique.

The stayers get their turn in the spotlight in the $600,000 Gr.2 Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup (3200m), with Son Of Sun, Blue Sky At Night and About Time among those bringing top form into the race.

Rounding off an unbelievable card of stakes racing will be the Gr.3 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Sunline Vase (2100m) and the Gr.3 Haunui Farm Kings Plate (1200m), the latter featuring Gr.1 Railway (1200m) winner Crocetti and the flying filly Alabama Lass.

Paul Wilcox and the team at Auckland Thoroughbred Racing have pulled out all the stops to bring a sensational day to life, with Group One-level hospitality, entertainment and, of course, the 20th running of the prestigious Ned Prix de Fashion.

Those who have attended the Karaka Millions know a thing or two about the Ellerslie after-parties, and ATR are taking it up a level, with world-renowned UK DJ Jax Jones locked in to host the Birdcage Bash. This event will close out a fantastic season for The Grand Tour Racing Festival, who will stage the Enclosure and round off in the Birdcage for one last dance in 2024/25.

Families are warmly welcomed to enjoy the spoils and thrills of Champions Day, with free games and activities for the kids throughout the afternoon.

A stacked line-up of racing, entertainment and (hopefully) the Auckland sun, be a part of the redefining of New Zealand’s industry with the inaugural Champions Day, this Saturday, March 8th at Ellerslie!

Race Schedule – Champions Day

Race 1: $120,000 Entain/NZB Insurance Pearl Series Final (1400m) – 12:15pm

Race 2: $250,000 Gr.3 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Sunline Vase (2100m) – 12:55pm

Race 3: $250,000 Gr.3 Haunui Farm Kings Plate (1200m) – 1:35pm

Race 4: $550,000 Gr.1 Sistema Stakes (1200m) – 2:13pm

Race 5: $600,000 Gr.1 HKJC World Pool New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) – 2:47pm

Race 6: $1,000,000 Gr.1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) – 3.21pm

Race 7: $600,000 Gr.2 Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup (3200m) – 3.57pm

Race 8: $3,500,000 The NZB Kiwi (1500m) – 4:32pm

Race 9: $1,250,000 Gr.1 Trackside New Zealand Derby (2400m) – 5.07pm

Race 10: $100,000 Windsor Park Stud 3YO Trophy (1500m) – 5:42pm

Gates Open: 11.00am

Readers should note by the way, that the TAB have an offer for the NZ Kiwi on Saturday – the offer is “back any runner for a win and if it runs top 3, you go in the draw to win one of five $20,000 prizes”

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Stallion making opportunity – the half brother to Bellatrix Star
 

As readers will be aware, the Fortuna Racing 3yo Filly, BELLATRIX STAR, had a sensational 2024 calendar year winning the Group 2 Eclipse Stakes at Pukekohe on Jan 1st, then winning three black type races in a row in Melbourne in the spring and running a brave 2nd in the Group One Coolmore Stakes. A freak accident in early January saw her sidelined for an indefinite period, but she is staging a strong recovery to date. At the recent Inglis Premier Sale, her yearling half bother by Nicconi was being offered and after going through the normal inspection process by the Te Akau Team of David Ellis, Mark Walker and Marcus Corban and passing that process with flying colours, we decided to see if we could secure him and (on our last bid) we managed to do so for A$200,000

This Colt is an outstanding physical specimen and with his pedigree page, he is a definite “stallion making” opportunity – stallion making is never easy of course as there is huge competition, but if Group Races in Australia can be won by 2yo Colts in particular, the pay offs can be huge. And while the high priced million dollar plus lots, boasting glamour pedigrees, attract initial attention, the very best 2yo Colts don’t necessarily fit that profile. The current “glamour” Colt in Sydney, Rivellino (Too Darn Hot), who is unbeaten from three starts, including a victory in the Group One Millennium at Randwick, was not a graduate of the Magic Millions or Inglis Easter Sale, but of the lower key Inglis Classic Sale, where he was acquired for just A$180k in 2024. He now has several Studs circling with offers that you can bet your last dollar on will be A$20m plus. So our Nicconi – Alana’s Party Colt is “in the zone” and most importantly, he looks to be an “early runner” which is a vital factor in the Stallion making game, particularly in Australia with their emphasis on “speed” stallions – read all about him below – shares now available on the Fortuna website

David Ellis and Fortuna Racing struck early on day one of the Inglis Premier sale in Melbourne Sunday 2nd March,  securing lot 20,  the half brother to the four time Stakes winner Bellatrix Star (Star Witness)

Consigned by Newhaven Park, the son of Nicconi was knocked down to the Ellis/Fortuna pairing for A$200,000. Ellis and Fortuna had combined to buy Bellatrix Star at the 2023 NZ Bloodstock Karaka Book One sale for NZ$80,000 and she subsequently became a star performer, winning at Group 2 level in New Zealand as a two year-old, then picking up three Stakes races in a row in Melbourne during the spring of 2024 and running a gallant 2nd behind Switzerland in the Group One Coolmore Stakes on Derby day.

Te Akau trainer Mark Walker who had conducted inspections at the sales complex on behalf of Ellis and Fortuna, described the Nicconi – Alana’s Party offering as “a big strong colt,  he is very forward and will run early”

Set to be trained by Mark Walker out of Te Akau Racing’s Cranbourne stable, this Colt is now offered for public syndication

Shares available down to 1% – NZ$2,300 for each 1% share and NZ$50 per month from 1 May 2025 – Click HERE to order a share

Some background here – we had spotted this Colt in the catalogue pre sale, but when Mark Walker went to the sales ground before the sale to conduct his inspections, he called John once he had inspected the horses on his list and had this to say “John, the half brother to Bellatrix Star is a genuinely beautiful Colt, big and strong and will run early” – you should note that we always approach these inspections very methodically and the fact that he was a half brother to Bellatrix Star was of course of interest to us, but at the same time whatever the pedigree is, we leave emotion out of it and focus on our core criteria which is the physical attributes and he certainly ticked all the boxes

Click HERE to see his presale parade.

 

Yearling Colt by Nicconi out of Alana’s Party

In fact this Colt is so forward that Mark has decided to send him straight to the breakers from the Sales Arena – this will mean that we can get him broken in early, then give him the usual two weeks stable prep and then give him a really decent break before bringing him back for a further preparation ahead of trialing in the spring. He is a Colt of course and it’s always challenging with Colts to keep them intact, but he definitely has a Stallion’s pedigree and if he was able to win Group races for us, particularly as a two-year-old, he would have immense value as a Stallion prospect.

Fortuna’s Trainer, Mark Walker is extremely positive about this Colt – Click HERE to listen to his verbal description

Te Akau Principal David Ellis has this to say about this Colt

“Lovely Two Year old type pedigree page, with the dam out of an Exceed and Excel mare, strong forward looking Colt, lovely walk, deep girth, looks to be an early running type”

Click HERE to see the pedigree page

In a remarkable show of confidence, the Breeders/Vendors of this Colt expressed a desire to retain 25% of him as a racehorse – a request we were happy to accede to

We know with Bellatrix Star of course, that she was able to run early, winning the very first 2yo race of the season in Australasia (1st Saturday in September) and a nice early black type race for this Colt would be the (Listed) Inglis Banner 1100m down the Flemington chute for A$400k on the last day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival – and of course the Group One Blue Diamond run at Caulfield in February is famous as a “stallion making” race

Key Points are:

  • Strong, powerful, well developed Colt who will run early
  • Potential Stallion at Stud prospect
  • By a well proven Stallion in Nicconi, the sire of the Multiple Group One and Everest winner, Nature Strip – Nicconi in his long career at Stud has thrown 70% winners to runners including 29 Stakes winners
  • A half brother to the brilliant Bellatrix Star, the winner of 5 races including 4 Stakes races, three of those in succession in Melbourne, – with two wins at Group 2 level, one at Group 3 and one Listed as well as running 2nd to Switzerland in the Group One Coolmore Stakes at Flemington
  • Will be prepared for racing by Mark Walker out of the Te Akau Racing Cranbourne facility in Victoria
  • His Breeders have retained 25% and so this Colt will race in a Partnership with our Fortuna Syndicate holding 75% of the horse and the Breeders 25%
  • Despite the partnership arrangement, he will race in the Fortuna Silks and Fortuna (John Galvin) will be the Racing Manager with full powers over the partnership as per the Syndicate Agreement

He will be nominated for the very lucrative Inglis Race Series (including the Pink Bonus) – Click HERE to read full details of that Series

 

View and/or Download the Disclosure Statement and the Syndicate Agreement for the NICCONI – ALANA’S PARTY COLT

Read the Declaration.

Terms

  • Shares available right down to 1%.
  • 10% share $23,000, 5% share $11,500, 2.5% share $5,750, 1% share $2,300 – with ongoing costs from 1 May 2025 @$50 per month per each 1% share
  • Initial Capital includes Purchase Price, Australian GST of 10%, Promoters fees, Inglis series fee, Insurance to 31st January 2026 and working capital of over $12,000
  • Monthly ongoing costs from 1st April 2025 – from that date ongoing costs are – 10% share $500 per month – 5% share $250 per month – 2.5% share $125 per month – 1% share $50 per month.
  • Monthly ongoing costs can alternatively be paid up to 12 months in advance as an option for subscribers by Bank  Payment or Credit Card

Purchase a share in NICCONI – ALANA’S PARTY COLT today from the link HERE or contact us for more information

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Shares still available in Colour Sergeant (7.5% left – will have his first start for us Tuesday 11th March at Benalla

  •  European Bred  4 time winning 7yo by Kingman
  • Acquired by us for a song in late November from his former NSW Stable
  • Been revitalised with an innovative training programme at Cranbourne in the hands of Mark Walker
  • Has had two solid jumpouts to prepare for his Fortuna debut this coming Tuesday 11th March at Benalla
  • Bred to get a trip, he has got down to just 63 points in the ratings and has jumping potential
  • Still shares left at $630 per each 1% and NZ$60 pm from 1 April
  • Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be placed directly from the website – place your order ahead of Tuesday’s race and you will have a winning chance that day

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Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Des has been in great form of late with his tips to his regular subscribers – at Waverley yesterday he tipped out seven winners (two selections per race) from the eight race program

Here is what Des has for our readers this week
Greetings John and Fortuna followers.
This Saturday marks a very special line in the sand of the industry. Who would’ve thought we are just one sleep away from the richest racing meeting by a country mile ever in NZ. If some bloke had told us we will be racing for over $9m in stake money in March 2025 say three or four years ago I reckon we would’ve all checked on his well being.

But here we are on Saturday with a great line up of talent – both equine and horse people throughout both NZ and aboard – about to strut their stuff. As a committee person at Trentham as part of the RACE group I would enjoy watching Perfumist go close and I’m sure she will but overall I’d wish all slot holders and owners of those in the NZB nothing but good luck for the inaugural running.

My three to follow for this weekend following on from December’s narrow but gutsy win; Navigator’s desperately unlucky Matamata sprint attempt and He’s A Doozy’s so-so 4th in the White Robe last week are:

Race 2 Ellerslie – This Time Girl

I liked her run behind Hinekaha and race rival Eye Candy at New Plymouth last time as she continues to improve. She was just a $10k purchase as a yearling and her pedigree traces back to champion two year old of the 89-90 season, Lycra, whose versatility saw her run a close 4th in the VRC Derby ( 2500m).
This filly is heading to the Oaks – alongside the majority of this field if they run up to expectations- and she looks every inch a leading light to confirm her place with a strong challenge in Saturday’s Sunline.

Hakkinen, NZ Derby

After Willydoit’s seemingly lack lustre run; albeit off a dawdling affair in the Avondale Guineas, the Derby is not cut and dried. Could Willydoit turn the Avondale Guineas form upside down?  Of course he could but I’m a wee bit nervous for punters who may have climbed on prepost the Avondale Guineas. Those punters will need to hedge their bets and I’m considering having a little each way on the Te Akau runner, Hakkinen.

He’s got the second best jockey in Australasia in my humble opinion to J-Mac in Blake Shinn engaged and being by Savabeel from an outstanding guineas family which includes the super duper Miss Finland I see ho reason why he can’t play a hand in the outcome. He has a relaxed  racing style coupled with a good turn of foot and that’s all necessary in this day and age to win at 2400m.

Trav – Auckland Cup

We need to get square after his luckless Wellington Cup run. Jumping 12 lengths last from the barrier and ending up 4th was massive.
Remember he’s closely related to Blood Brother and Princess Mellay, who between them won 4 races at the highest level over 2 miles.
The horse, from all accounts, hasn’t missed a beat since Trentham in mid January ( his last race) with jump out and trials form.
Good punting folks. Enjoy!

Des Coppins
021 448 052

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