fortunanz

Friday Flash – 9th December 2022

 

Headline News;

Fortuna Annual Owners Day 4th December – A big success

Paul Goggin named “Fortuna Owner Of The Year”

Donna Logan reflects on her 1st year at the helm of the Te Akau Singapore Racing Stable

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Fortuna has two runners today at Tauranga

HAYATE contests the R60 1300 – Race 10 @ 6.31pm – Niranjan Parmar to ride – a Maiden winner on debut at Matamata in May, she has fallen into a bit of a hole in her form this season although was a dominant trial winners at Matamata in November – her last start at New Plymouth, finishing 4th had some merit. Back to R60 grade here with a nice draw and an in form claiming apprentice, she can feature 1st three here.

ANGEL’S WINGS makes her race day debut in the Maiden 1200 – Race 7 at 4.44, Sam Weatherley to ride from a nice gate. This 3yo daughter of Heroic Valour has had a patient preparation, has trialed nicely, has been showing the team a lot in her work and is ready for a bold showing on debut – represents a top 4 chance in this.

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Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday 6th December

No timed Fortuna trackwork today

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

No timed Singapore trackwork this week

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Other News

Fortuna Annual Owners Day 4th December – A big success

110 attendees, a warm sunny day, 12 Fortuna horses parading in great order, a special guest in Mark Walker, lots of convivial company – yes it was a great day, particularly after the last two years which saw attendee numbers down on previous years.

Attendees were able to relive the highlights of the 2022 year (via a video compilation of the closing stages of each win) which saw 38 wins (to the 4th December) For Fortuna Racing in NZ, Aus and Singapore, surpassing the 30 wins achieved in 2021.

Click HERE to see that compilation

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Paul Goggin named “Fortuna Owner Of The Year”

Paul, who is based in Queensland, was named our Owner of the Year – this off the back of 15 individual winners producing 28 wins in New Zealand, Australia and Singapore

Paul approaches Syndication in the right way – he takes small shares in almost every syndicate – his winners in 2022 were Dancarina (2), Entertainer (2), Trident (2), Hayate (1), Elliot Ness (1), Navalha (1), King Arthur (7), Malborough Bay (1), Ragamuffin (2), Mohawk Brave (2), Deception (2), Rocky (1), No Envy (1), Olympia (1) and Inca Belle (2)

Paul joined us on one of our Singapore trips in 2022 and was also an attendee at all three days of the Riccarton carnival in November and clearly loves his racing – well done Paul.

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Donna Logan reflects on her 1st year at the helm  the Te Akau Singapore Racing Stable

In her first season as trainer for Te Akau Racing in Singapore, Donna Logan finished second on the Trainer’s Premiership.

With a season running the calendar year, and now finished until recommencing on 7 January, Donna Logan took over from Mark Walker in January 2022 and made a great fist of her new appointment to produce 59 winners, finishing in 2nd place behind winner Tim Fitzsimmons who had 65.  Walker had returned to New Zealand to return to the helm of the Te Akau Matamata operation.

Highlights for Donna included: training four winners during a meeting in August to arrest the Premiership lead; having three wins at one race meeting on three occasions; finishing second in the $1 million Singapore Gold Cup (Gr. 1, 2000m) with Super Impact (Real Impact), ridden by visiting jockey Michael Dee and training King Arthur for Fortuna Racing to win seven times during 2022, lifting him from a 61 rating to a 106 rating in the process. Donna was also the Master of Singapore’s Champion apprentice for 2022 in Fadzli Yusoff who topped the Apprentice riders table with 22 wins

In 2021, Donna, when training on her own account, had trained $1 million Kranji Mile (Gr. 1, 1600m) winner Minister (Street Sense).

KING ARTHUR –  7 wins for Donna Logan in 2022 – Fadzli Yusoff aboard

Mark Walker had been Champion Trainer four times in Singapore, including setting a new Singapore training record with 87 wins in 2017, after completing his first stint as Te Akau trainer (1997 – 2010) at Matamata, where he recorded 858 wins, of which 88 were stakes’ level, while winning the Trainers’ Premiership five times. Reinstated at the helm since April in Matamata, Walker has set a torrid pace with over 100 wins, including 18 stakes’ wins, and has a clear hold on the Premiership title this season with 73 victories.

Te Akau principal David Ellis CNZM was recently in Singapore, and made his intentions clear of ongoing support, and when Logan was home for the recent New Zealand Bloodstock Ready to Run Sale, the Te Akau team bought nine horses of which three are earmarked for Te Akau’s Kranji stable.

Donna had also attended the Inglis Ready 2 Race Sale in early October where she picked out her “buy of the sale” – the Charm Spirit – Thurlow 2yo Gelding for Fortuna Racing. Now given the stable name “Rhett” he is on his way to Singapore 12th December. Still a few shares available – see details HERE

Training since 2018 in Singapore, Donna Logan was previously a highly regarded trainer at Ruakaka in New Zealand, where she prepared 873 winners including 61 stakes winners. Among her stable stars were quadruple Group One winner Volkstok’n’barrell (Tavistock), Habibi (Ekraar), Rising Romance (Ekraar), Valley Girl (Mastercraftsman), and Vapour Trail (Jetball).

Donna is buoyed by her first year with Te Akau, taking the time to reflect on the season, while also outlining increased incentives for owners, twice the number of feature races (stakes $110,000 – $1 million), and is already gearing up for 2023.

“It was a mammoth first season,” she said. “I think my best ever in New Zealand was 62 wins, with more meetings, so to get 59 here with an average of 48 horses in work was great.
“We also had 65 seconds and 66 thirds, with some very narrow margins, so we were a bit unlucky, really, not to get more wins.
“We are busy planning the races to start off again in January, while horses are having a holiday to freshen-up.  We’ve got new horses arriving in December and again in January, which is really encouraging.
“The staff worked hard and really applied themselves and we’ve got a great bunch of loyal owners that support us.
“Our apprentice, Fadzli Yusoff, won Champion Apprentice, and Jerlyn Seow, the only female jockey in Singapore, finished third.
“Fortuna Racing, run by John Galvin, finished third in the owners’ list with 18 wins and just under S$800k in prizemoney –  we had a great time hosting John and his wonderful group of Owners when they came over in June and August.”

“Trainers and owners, and everyone involved in racing here, have really grown in confidence with what Dayle Brown (Chief Racing Officer of the Singapore Turf Club) has put in place. He’s very on to racing and had a lot of experience and knowledge. It’s a big advantage.
“His working with our President and Chief Executive, Irene Lim, has really improved everything here at the Turf Club.
“Although not out in the press, there is going to be an increase to the owner’s incentive of $600 each time the horse races, for horses finishing second to eighth.
“Also the owners have no transportation costs, no horse covers, and subsidised vets because they are employed by the turf club and veterinary products at virtually cost price.”

Click HERE to see footage of Donna Logan at work
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Guest Selector – Tom Waterhouse

Tom’s selection last week finished out of the money:

Tom says this week

Dear John and Team – Ascot 8-5 ALASKAN GOD: On the quick backup after a terrific run in much stronger class last week

Tom’s tipping service is available by subscription (at a cost of course) with a whole range of packages – far too many mention here, but for example, there is a Daily Best Bet, where subscribers receive a daily email (there is also an App), a Weekly Five Best package and for Saturday racing, a Gold Package giving 20 bets for the day and a Silver Package giving 5 bets for the day – all of Tom’s packages provide historical data and, most importantly, a staking strategy and there is a package for every budget

Click HERE to visit Tom’s website

I am a subscriber myself and have enjoyed considerable success with the Silver Package (which has provided an average 18.4% Profit on Turnover and a 419.8% return on investment since inception in 2018) and can thoroughly recommend Tom’s services

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INCA BELLE makes it Two wins from Two starts when winning at Wanganui 26th November

Fortuna Racing’s debut winner Inca Belle (3 f Per Incanto – Belle Vie, by Darci Brahma) repeated the dose when prevailing in the $30,000 Platinum Homes 3YO 1200 metres on Saturday at Wanganui. After winning the NZB Ready to Run Sale Maiden 1100 metres on 8 November at Pukekohe, Inca Belle was again ridden by Champion Te Akau apprentice Joe Kamaruddin and rose in class with distinction.From a handy spot, Inca Belle ranged into contention turning for home and won a ding-dong battle with Papa Surf (Dalghar).

On footing upgraded to Soft7, Inca Belle ran 1200 metres in 1:13.0 and paid $2.90 & $1.40 on the NZ TAB tote.

She provided Fortuna Racing with their second victory in the space of 20 minutes, after Soprano Supreme (Contributer) had obliged at Te Rapa.

Click HERE to see the race replay

  INCA BELLE –  makes it two starts – two wins Wanganui 26th November 2022

Trainer Mark Walker was at Te Rapa but watched Inca Belle’s winning performance from afar and commented post race “Lovely progressive Filly this one, still learning the game, but not many win two from two, so very pleased for John Galvin and his Fortuna team of Owners – they seem to have another promiosing 3yo Filly with this one.”

“We’ve had two nose margin victories go our way, and the first nose was a bit bigger than the second,” said Fortuna Racing’s John Galvin, “Inca Belle backed up her first win nicely. Obviously, not many win a Maiden and then win again next time out, but it’s usually the sign of a promising type when it does happen. She looked as though she had the measure of her opponent with a couple of hundred metres to go. The other horse fought back, but I think Inca Belle is still a bit green and still learning the trade. Inca Belle was a Ready to Run Sale purchase for us  from the 2021 sale. She’s by a very good stallion in Per Incanto and from the mighty Belle family, so it was very pleasing to get that sort of outcome, right across the board.”

The Belle family, referred to by John Galvin, also produced dual Horse of the Year and Group One record-holder (14) Melody Belle (Commands), owned by a Fortuna Racing Syndicate

Melody Belle, bred by Marie Leicester, purchased by David Ellis CNZM for $57,500  on behalf of Fortuna Racing at the 2016 New Zealand Bloodstock Premier Yearling Sale, from the draft of Haunui Farm, retired the winner of 14 Group One races (19 from 41 in total) and $4.3 million prize money, before selling as a broodmare for A$2.6m.

Inca Belle is a filly that could be capable of progressing over longer distances, given impressive winning (1400m – 1800m) grand-dam Our Ella Belle (Encosta de Lago) was a Group Three winner and Group One placed, also trained by Mark Walker.

Inca Belle was strapped by Stephanie Hyde-Richards.

Inca Belle was purchased by David Ellis CNZM and Fortuna Racing for $50,000 at the 2021 NZB Ready To Run Sale, from the draft of Phoenix Park, and is raced by the Fortuna Inca Belle Syndicate, an Ownership Group consisting of 49 individuals, mainly from NZ but also with Australian and Hong Kong based Members,

Soprano Supreme wins in dramatic fashion at Te Rapa 26th November

Fortuna Racing’s staying mare Soprano Supreme (5 m Contributer – Falsetto, by Zabeel) indicated her readiness for upcoming Cup assignments when winning the $35,000 Rating 75 2400 metres on Saturday at Te Rapa. Good enough to campaign during the autumn in Brisbane, where she finished second in the Gold Coast Cup (2400m), Soprano Supreme had produced the fastest last 600m (34.6) for fourth in the Rating 86 2200 metres on 5 November at Te Rapa, and emulated the feat again in this latest outing

Soprano Supreme was given a patient ride by two-kilo claiming Te Akau apprentice Niranjan Parmar, spotting 11th of 13 and standing the leader eight lengths 600m out, before unleashing wide on the track and flying home for a nose margin victory.

Click HERE to see the race replay

“Soprano Supreme” (blue cap) – 4th career win Te Rapa 26 November 2022

Niranjan Parmer was a happy rider post race “I was well back like I was last time, but I was pretty confident and thought they were going fast enough from the 800 metres and I pulled her out at the right time,” he said“She worked really well in morning track work when Opie Bosson rode her and he said she was going well. I was claiming three (kilos), claiming two now and the horses are running for me. I am pretty lucky, working hard, and my boss, Mark Walker, is helping me with my riding.”

In the race sponsored by Dunstan Feeds, Soprano Supreme ran 2400 metres in 2:33.8, last 600m 35.5, and drifted in betting to pay $7.00 & $2.70 on the NZ TAB tote.

“We’ve given her a bit of time, but she’s getting stronger and we took the blinkers off,” said trainer Mark Walker“Her last run here was good, on a day that favoured horses on speed, and Parmar is riding terrifically. That was his sixth winner for the week, so he’s riding very well. We think she might be an Auckland Cup chance, so we’ll just hope she continues on through the grades and see where we end up.”

Soprano Supreme became the fourth mare fourth mare by Mapperley Stud stallion Contributer (High Chaparral) to win for the stable in November, following Campionessa in the Metropolitan Trophy (Listed, 2500m), and dominant Maiden winners Elounda and Family Ties. 

Soprano Supreme is from first crop of Champion Australian Middle Distance Horse of the Year Contributer (High Chaparral), dual Group One winner of the Chipping Norton (Gr. 1, 1600m) and Ranvet Stakes (Gr. 1, 2000m). Dam Falsetto, by legendary stallion Zabeel (Sir Tristram), was an impressive three-time winner from 1600m – 2100m and placed in the NZ Oaks (Gr. 1, 2400m).

John Galvin, the Fortuna Racing Syndicate manager, was on course to watch his charge perform, had this to say afyer the races: “Thank you Dave (Smith) for the  sponsorship from your company, Dunstan Feeds. We’ve known each other for a long time through the racing club and your days as former Chairman. Soprano Supreme really showed us a lot through the autumn. She’s had a bit of a stuttering start to the new season, but is a staying mare and her run here last start was encouraging enough to suggest she would run well today and so it proved – although, I thought at the 300m mark we would finish about fifth, she showed an amazing turn of foot closing stages and I would love to see those sectionals. It was a great riding effort by Parmar, who timed his run to perfection – I think he’s been taking lessons from Noel Harris. Congratulations to the group of owners and we seem to have a really nice staying type of mare here. It looks as though she has a bright future in front of her. And well done to Mark Walker – she’s given us a couple of head scratching moments this preparation, but Mark has stuck to his gune with her programme.”

Soprano Supreme was strapped by Shaun Magee.

Bred by Tim Harrison, Soprano Supreme was acquired by David Ellis on behalf of Fortuna Racing at the NZ Bloodstock 2019 Karaka Yearling Sale for $62,500 from the draft of Te Runga Stud.

She is raced by the Fortuna Soprano Supreme Syndicate, an Ownership group of 62 individuals from New Zealand, the USA  and Hong Kong

Friday Flash – 25th November 2022

Headline News;

Positive News from the Singapore Turf Club on its Feature Races programming

Two Year Old Filly by Dundeel acquired at the NZ Bloodstock Ready To Run Sale – still shares left

Fortuna Annual Owners Day – Matamata Racecourse – Sunday 4th December

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Fortuna has four runners this Saturday, two in NZ and two in Singapore

Te Rapa – Saturday 26th

Soprano Supreme runs in the Rating 75 2400 – Race 1 @ 11.55 and will be ridden again by Stable Apprentice, Parmar Singh, claiming 2kgs – after putting in two average performances on resuming, she was much better last start this track running home strongly over 2200m for a 4th placing. She will relish the trip and should handle the wet track – is a good each way chance in this

Wanganui – Saturday 26th
INCA BELLE, a recent winner on debut at Pukekohe Park, contests the 3yo Set Weights and Penalties over 1200 – Race 2 @ 1.15pm and will be ridden again by Joe Kamaruddin, claiming 1kg from a good barrier. Winning debut was strong, she has trained on well, meets four other last start winners here and does need to handle what could be a very testing track – can run in the money here if she handles the conditions

Singapore – Saturday 26th

OLYMPIA contests the Class 5 1000m Poly event – Race 5 @ 2pm Singapore time (7pm NZT) and will be ridden by Yusoff, claiming 2kgs, from a widish barrier. Racing very well without winning of late, is always in contention – is a top 3 chance in this

BRUTUS contests the Class 3 1200m Turf event – Race 12 @ 5.30pm Singapore time (10.30pm NZT) and will be ridden by Stable Apprentice, Sarwi Jamil claiming 4kgs, from an outside barrier – a five time winner in Singapore he has not greeted the judge since March. Loves to race on the speed and will push forward from the draw – will need a lot of luck but if he gets it, can feature in the finish

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Fortuna Track work – Matamata

No timed Fortuna trackwork this week

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday  19th November

Brutus (Dennis) – 800/600 37;

Tuesday   22nd November

Brutus (Jamil) – 800/600 38;

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Other News

Positive News from the Singapore Turf Club on its Feature Races programming

The Singapore Racing Fixtures from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024 have been released, with a total of 20 feature races, 10 more than the current racing season, and the reinstatement of four iconic race series. Developed in close consultation with trainers and the racing community, the fixtures for the new racing season aims to elevate the sport of horse racing in Singapore by offering more feature races for runners.

“In our conversations with trainers, they have asked that we prioritise raising the quality of races and we have answered with the doubling of feature races and the return of popular race series. The revamped racing fixtures is particularly designed to bring greater prestige to the sport when runners have more feature races at their disposal. Race series takes the sport to a higher level by challenging the tenacity of champion horses and offering them additional impetus to excel. The new fixtures ensure a progressive pathway for our racehorses, and I am looking forward to how trainers will be building their racehorse profiles and strategies for the new racing season to take full advantage of the fixtures and series,” said Dayle Brown, Chief Racing Officer of the Singapore Turf Club (STC).

There will be 48 race meetings, slated as 37 Saturday meetings and 11 Sunday meetings, in which two meetings will fall on Public Holidays. The two meetings are held on a Saturday – 22 April 2023 (Group 2 EW Barker Trophy meeting on Hari Raya Puasa) and on a Sunday – 11 February 2024 (Group 3 Fortune Bowl meeting on second day of Chinese New Year) respectively. Among the 48 race meetings, 23 meetings will feature 11 races each while 25 of them will have 12 races each. The 12-race meetings on the cards are all the 18 feature race meetings, the six meetings after the conclusion of Hong Kong’s 2022/2023 season (23 and 30 July, 6, 13, 20 and 27 August) and the penultimate meeting of the year on 25 November.

The last meeting of the year will conclude with the Group 3 Colonial Chief Stakes meeting on 2 December and the industry will then have a four-week break during the festive season, before resuming in 2024 with the Group 3 New Year Cup meeting on 6 January.

Re-introduction of 10 feature races
Ten feature races will be re-introduced and added to the current line-up of 10 feature races. While eight of the current feature races had been run this year, the Group 3 Merlion Trophy (1200m) and the Group 1 Raffles Cup (1600m) are slated to be run on 4 February and 25 March next year. With the release of the new fixtures, both feature races will be run twice in 2023, with the second running of the Raffles Cup on 23 September and the Merlion Trophy on 28 October. The second Raffles Cup will be held as the first leg of the reinstated Singapore Triple Crown series, while the second Merlion Trophy will still be run as a standalone sprint feature race.

Nine of the 10 feature races making a return on the new fixtures were discontinued in 2021 after the COVID-19 pandemic struck, except for the Group 3 Kranji Sprint (1200m), which was renamed the Group 3 Rocket Man Sprint (1200m) in 2017 in a move by STC to name races to honour past greats. The Rocket Man Sprint was last run in 2020 and will now return as another race alongside the Kranji Sprint. Among the six Group 1 races, four Group 2 races and 10 Group 3 races to be held, the Group 1 Kranji Mile (1600m) and the Group 2 Singapore Guineas (1600m) will be run on the same day on 20 May while the Group 1 Singapore Derby (1800m) and the Group 3 Singapore Golden Horseshoe (1200m) will be held on 23 July.

Reinstatement of four race series
Four race series will be brought back in the 23/24 racing season, namely the Singapore Triple Crown series, the Singapore Four-Year-Old Challenge series, the Singapore Three-Year-Old Challenge series and the newly named STC Super Sprint series, which replaces the former Singapore Sprint Series that was discontinued in 2019.

All four race series comprise of three races each. The Singapore Three-Year-Old Challenge series will be the first of the race series to be run in the first half of 2023. It is made up of the Group 3 Singapore Three-Year-Old Sprint (1200m) and the Group 2 Singapore Three-Year-Old Classic (1400m), with both legs held in April, as well as the resumption the Group 2 Singapore Guineas (1600m), which will be run in May as the third and final leg. Next up, the Singapore Four-Year-Old Challenge series will see the Group 3 Silver Bowl (1400m) run in June, followed by the Group 2 Stewards’ Cup (1600m) and culminate with the Group 1 Singapore Derby (1800m). Both races will be run in July.

The STC Super Sprint series will have the Group 3 Kranji Sprint (1200m) run as the first leg in June, the Group 3 Rocket Man Sprint (1200m) as the second leg and the Group 1 Lion City Cup (1200m) as the third leg, both set to be held in August. Towards the later half of the season, the Group 1 Raffles Cup (1600m), the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth II Cup (1800m) and the Group 1 Singapore Gold Cup (2000m) that make up the three legs of the Singapore Triple Crown series will be run in September, October and November respectively.

For the STC Super Sprint and the Singapore Triple Crown series, the winning owners of the horses that make a clean sweep of all three legs of each series will be awarded a bonus prizemoney of $100,000 each.

John comments “Clearly this is a great initiative on the part of the STC – to be fair, prizemoney for Restricted Maiden, Novice and Grade races has remained unchanged during the pandemic induced cutback and our runners and Owners have continued to earn excellent levels of prizemoney, however the re-introduction of the Feature races has lifted the spirits of Trainers, Owners and Administrators. While the announcement has only been made this week, it was not a particularly well kept secret and Singapore Trainers, in anticipation of this announcement, have been splashing out at the three recent Two Year Old Sales, Inglis Ready2 Race, Magic Millions 2yo and NZ Bloodstock Ready To Run. In total, Singapore Trainers have acquired 74 2yos at those three sales, compared to just 16 in 2021. These initiatives are bound to increase public attendance at Kranji and subsequent increases in turnover are bound to feed through into increased prizemoney in the medium term.

As readers would be aware Fortuna Racing has been a strong supporter of Singapore Racing since 2010 and we continued to send new horses up there throughout the Covid period. So for us it is “business as usual” but with a heightened sense of anticipation with the re-introduction of the Feature Race programme – notable also that as we struggle here in NZ with difficult weather conditions and trials and race day abandonments, that every single programmed race day at the STC has gone ahead as planned

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Two Year Old Filly by Dundeel acquired at the NZ Bloodstock Ready To Run Sale – still shares left

75% committed already, shares are moving steadily – $5,500 for each 5% share and we do shares down to 1% – Click HERE to order off our website page

Lot 320, the 2yo Filly by Dundeel out of Vivi Veloce (by More Than Ready) was knocked to the bid of Fortuna Racing/David Ellis 17th November at the NZ Bloodstock Ready To Run Sale. Acquired for New Zealand/Australian racing, this Filly presents as a lovely physical type, and has the pedigree to match.

This Filly was identified initially by Mark Walker out of the breeze ups, demonstrating a lovely action and breezing up in a good time. Subsequent physical examinations by Mark, David Ellis and Marcus Corban had her firmly on the “buy” list and knowing that I wanted to acquire a Middle Distance/Staying type Filly at this sale, she was earmarked for Fortuna Racing provided that we could get her for budget. She vetted perfectly on the  morning of the sale, so we were all set.

Being late in the sale, we were taking a bit of a risk, in that if she went over budget, we could walk away from the sale empty handed, however I set a budget of $120k and amazingly, she was knocked down to us for just $60k which I was not expecting – it had been a very strong sale and perhaps being late in the sale was to our advantage as those buyers seeking fillies may well have filled their orders – sometimes you get lucky!!!

Mark Walker who will train this Filly for us from the Te Akau Training  Stables at Matamata, has this to say about our new acquisition;

“John, once again you have done very well here on price – I was particularly drawn to her breeze up gallop, she had a very strong and correct action and to my eye looked to be a genuine middle distance staying type of Filly with a very strong pedigree page. When I inspected her in the flesh at the sales, I was only more pleased with her – she is a lovely physical type who may well be a contender for the 3yo races in the Spring of 2023, but will certainly come into her own as an Autumn 3yo with races like the NZ Oaks a logical target for her”

Click HERE to go to view her breeze up gallop (outside runner in purple silks)
Click HERE to view her parade Video

This Filly had been prepared for the RTR Sale by master horseman Chad Ormsby at his Riverrock  Farm establishment in the Waikato


The Dundeel – Vivi Veloce Two Year Old Filly

Pedigree

By the Group One winning Stallion, DUNDEEL, now the Sire of 225 winners including 18 Stakes winners, this Filly also boasts an extremely strong distaff side being out of the More Than Ready mare, Vivi Veloce, a Group 3 winner in South Australia and the dam of two foals to the races to date – both winners. The grand dam Royal Sash (Royal Academy) won 6 times in Australia including the Mannerism Stakes at Group 3 level – this is a very stout pedigree – Click HERE to see her pedigree

Fortuna Director John Galvin says
“It is always very satisfying to set your sights on a horse you really like, set a budget and then secure it at or under budget – this Filly was the one we wanted and we waited and waited and our patience paid off – she is a lovely physical type who ticked all the boxes during our inspection process and she looks to be a great addition to the Fortuna Racing Team”

This Filly is now agisting at Te Akau Stud for four to six weeks – during this time she will strengthen and mature  –  Mark Walker will get her into the Stables around the end of December for her first Te Akau Stable preparation which may well lead to a trial in the Autumn and potentially a  start or two as a 2yo late Autumn to gain race day experience.
The all up syndicated cost for this Filly is NZ $110,000 – this includes purchase price, GST on Promoters fees, insurance through to January 2024 and over $12,000 of working capital

Disclosure Statement & Agreement
View and/or Download the Disclosure Statement and the Syndicate Agreement for this syndicate

Terms
The all up syndicated cost is NZ $110,000 – this includes purchase price, GST, Promoters fees, insurance through to January 2024 and just over $12,000 of working capital.

  • Shares available right down to 1%.
  • 10% share $11,000 – 5% share  $5,500– 2.5% share $2,750 – 1% share $1,100 (all pricing in NZ$)
  • Share price includes all Initial Costs (Purchase price, GST, Promoters Fees, , Insurance through to 31st January 2024, and Working Capital of $12,000 approx
  • Monthly ongoing costs from 1st January 2022 – from that date ongoing costs are – 10% share $440 per month – 5% share $220 per month – 2.5% share $110 per month – 1% share $44 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

Click HERE to order off our website page
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Fortuna Annual Owners Day – Matamata Race Course – Sunday 4th December

One week to go – if you wish to attend please register your attendance as we need to know for catering purposes

Venue – Epsom Lounge – Matamata Race course
Date – Sunday 4th December
Time – 1pm to 4pm
Format – Meet and Greet, light refreshments, Review of 2022 Calendar Year, Parade of all of the Fortuna Matamata based horses
Special Guest – Mark Walker

Registration – it is important that you register with your numbers – please do that by emailing jessica@fortuna-nz.comor you can call or text Jessica 021 288 6997
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Guest Selector – Tom Waterhouse

Tom’s selection last week, Detonator Jack, looked all over the winner down the home straight but was run down last few strides, finishing 2nd. Here is what Tom says this week “Ascot Race 8 #2 Vilana – In terrific form this campaign. Fast pace suits.”

Tom’s tipping service is available by subscription (at a cost of course) with a whole range of packages – far too many mention here, but for example, there is a Daily Best Bet, where subscribers receive a daily email (there is also an App), a Weekly Five Best package and for Saturday racing, a Gold Package giving 20 bets for the day and a Silver Package giving 5 bets for the day – all of Tom’s packages provide historical data and, most importantly, a staking strategy and there is a package for every budget

Click HERE to visit Tom’s website

I am a subscriber myself and have enjoyed considerable success with the Silver Package (which has provided an average 18.4% Profit on Turnover and a 419.8% return on investment since inception in 2018) and can thoroughly recommend Tom’s services. Notable that the “Best Bet” from the Silver Package has produced 16 winners from the last 20 selections!!!

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Friday Flash – 18th November 2022

Headline News;

Fortuna Racing acquires a Two Year Old Filly by Dundeel at the NZ Bloodstock Ready To Run Sale

Fortuna Annual Owners Day – Matamata Racecourse – Sunday 4th December

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Fortuna has five runners  on Saturday, all in Singapore

Singapore – Saturday 19th

DECEPTION runs in the Class 4 1200 Turf – Race 2 @ 12.30 Singapore time (5.30pm NZT) and will be ridden again by Simon Kok, claiming 1kg, from a handy barrier – last start winner this class and trip, he is well placed here to deliver another good result – is a strong each way chance

Here is what the STC tipsters have to say about this race:

1st Pick: WIN WIN (1)
Form in behind South Of The River looks strong enough to be winning well here, looks very hard to beat even as the top weight.
2nd Pick: HAPPY MOMENT (2)
Was unlucky early finding no room and when the runs came at the 300m, he had nothing to give. Backing up here but didn’t have a gut busting run last week so he could give a sight here.
3rd Pick: DECEPTION (4)
Solid win last start to burst through and get the money. WH Kok stays on board, draws well, top three player.
4th Pick: FADABOY (5)
Last start was a tad disappointing after the form suggested he wasn’t far from a win. The blinkers have made an obvious difference and he worth giving another shot with Mick Dee booked to ride.

ROCKY contests the Novice 1400 Turf event – Race 7 @ 3pm Singapore time (8pm NZT) and will be ridden by Jake Bayliss from a mid field barrier. Two solid 4ths in Class 4 company after winning his Maiden at just his 4th raceday start, Rocky has never finished out of the money. Meets some handy types here, but is up to the challenge – can run first three

KING ARTHUR runs in the Kranji Stakes A 1200 Turf – Race 9 @ 4pm Singapore time (9pm NZT) and will be ridden by Fadzli Yusoff, claiming 2kgs from a mid field barrier. The winner of 9 races from 16 starts in a 12 month period, he is now one of the highest rated horses in Singapore. Meets a hot field here, but trialed brilliantly 10 days ago and is right up for this – strong each way chance and can win

Here is what the STC tipsters have to say about this race:

1st Pick: LIM’S KOSCIUSZKO (3)
Multiple Group One winner who has won from 1200m to 1800m in a dominant season that puts him into Horse of The Year contention. He had a solid trial in preparation for this and the stable knows how to have them spot on for a big day. Should have a nice run from barrier 3.
2nd Pick: GOLDEN MONKEY (8)
Promising up and coming galloper from our leading stable who ran a cracker in the Group One Lion City Cup earlier this year. Has had a freshen up since that run where he was caught wide and finished strongly for third. Craig Williams takes the steer with 50kgs.
3rd Pick: KING ARTHUR (2)
Top sprinter who has had a strong season including a strong second placing in the Group One sprint behind Lim’s Kosciuszko. He was very brave on that occasion, and this looks a nice race for him to be in the finish again.
4th Pick: ROCKET STAR (5)
Talented gelding who has been off the scene since March where he finished second behind Fame Star. He has had his fair share of issues but has had two trials under his belt and look for him late.

ENTERTAINER  also runs in the Kranji Stakes A 1200 Turf – Race 9 @ 4pm Singapore time (9pm NZT) and will be ridden by Australian jockey of the moment, Mick Dee from the outside barrier. On paper, he is out of his depth here and wide draw won’t help, but has performed well in this grade before and has a very much in form rider aboard and a featherweight. Can sneak a place at odds

TRIDENT runs in the Class 4 1400 Race 10 @ 4.30pm Singapore time (9.30pm NZT) and will be ridden by Fadzli Yusoff, claiming 2kgs from the outside gate. After winning 2 races in succession Trident has raced well for 2 2nds and a 4th in this grade without a lot of luck. Yusoff back on will help, but has a tricky draw to contend with. A talented galloper at best, he can feature in the finish here with luck in the running from his wide draw

Here is what the STC tipsters have to say about this race:

1st Pick: DREAM ALLIANCE (2)
Looking to make it three wins on the bounce for the strong Fitzsimmons stable. Should settle just off the pace and proved he can mix it in this class. Rises in weight but looks a progressive type.
2nd Pick: TRIDENT (1)
Finished runner up last start behind Dream Alliance who he must try and tackle again this weekend. Strong course and distance stats with two wins and a minor placing from three starts. Can go one better with the claim from our leading apprentice.
3rd Pick: EAGLE EYE (4)
He can be a tricky horse to follow but when he brings his best, he can mix it with these class four gallopers. Thrives at this distance and stable should have him fully wound up for a big run.
4th Pick: ON LINE (3)
We haven’t seen him win since October of last season but has caught the eye in a few runs in much higher rated races. Recorded the fastest sectional time when finishing fifth and could surprise.

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Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday 15th November

Angels Wings (J Kamaruddin) worked together over an easy 1000 metres in 1.03.5, home in 36.8

Fortuna Track work – Singapore
 
Saturday  12th November

King Arthur (Yusoff) – 1000/600 37.5; Trident (Yusoff) – 1000/600 39; Brutus (Awah) – 1000/600 39;

Tuesday   15th November

King Arthur (Ronnie) – 800/600 37.6; Rocky (Jake) – 800/600 38.6; Deception (Simon) – 800/600 40

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Other News
 

Fortuna acquires a Two-year-old Filly by Dundeel at the NZ Bloodstock Ready To Run Sale

Lot 320, the 2yo Filly by Dundeel out of Vivi Veloce (by More Than Ready) was knocked to the bid of Fortuna Racing/David Ellis 17th November at the NZB Ready To Run Sale. Acquired for New Zealand/Australian racing, this Filly presents as a lovely physical type, and has the pedigree to match.

This Filly was identified initially by Mark Walker out of the breeze ups, demonstrating a lovely action and breezing up in a good time. Subsequent physical examinations by Mark, David Ellis and Marcus Corban had her firmly on the “buy” list and knowing that I wanted to acquire a Middle Distance/Staying type Filly at this sale, she was earmarked for Fortuna Racing provided that we could get her for budget. She vetted perfectly on Thursday morning, so we were all set

Being late in the sale, we were taking a bit of a risk, in that if she went over budget, we could walk away from the sale empty handed, however I set a budget of $120k and amazingly, she was knocked down to us for just $60k which I was not expecting – it had been a very strong sale and perhaps being late in the sale was to our advantage as those buyers seeking fillies may well have filled their orders – sometimes you get lucky!!!

Mark Walker who will train this Filly for us from the Te Akau Training  Stables at Matamata, has this to say about our new acquisition “John, once again you have done very well here on price – I was particularly drawn to her breeze up gallop, she had a very strong and correct action and to my eye looked to be a genuine middle distance staying type of Filly with a very strong pedigree page. When I inspected her in the flesh at the sales, I was only more pleased with her – she is a lovely physical type who may well be a contender for the 3yo races in the Spring of 2023, but will certainly come into her own as an Autumn 3yo with races like the NZ Oaks a logical target for her”

Two Year Old Filly by Dundeel  out of Vivi Veloce

Click HERE to go to view her breeze up gallop (outside runner in purple silks)

Click HERE to view her parade Video

This Filly had been prepared for the RTR Sale by master horseman Chad Ormsby at his Riverrock  Farm establishment

Pedigree

By the Group One winning Stallion, DUNDEEL, now the Sire of 225 winners including 18 Stakes winners, this Filly also boasts an extremely strong distaff side being out of the More Than Ready mare, Vivi Veloce, a Group 3 winner in South Australia and the dam of two foals to the races to date – both winners. The grand dam Royal Sash (Royal Academy) won 6 times in Australia including the Mannerism Stakes at Group 3 level – this is a very stout pedigree – see  pedigree below;

John says “It is always very satisfying to set your sights on a horse you really like, set a budget and then secure it at or under budget – this Filly was the one we wanted and we waited and waited and our patience paid off – she is a lovely physical type who ticked all the boxes during our inspection process and she looks to be a great addition to the Fortuna Racing Team”

This Filly will now go to Te Akau Stud for four to six weeks – during this time she will strengthen and mature and then Mark will get her into the Stables for her first Te Akau Stable preparation which may well lead to a trial in the Autumn and potentially a  start or two as a 2yo late Autumn to gain race day experience.

The all up syndicated cost for this Filly is NZ $110,000 – this includes purchase price, GST, Promoters fees, insurance through to January 2024 and over $12,000 of working capital

Syndication paperwork is still being finalised but we are taking Expressions of Interest and you can do that by emailing john@fortuna-nz.com or call/text John 021 921 460 – orders will be allocated as they are received – so if you have interest, please don’t delay  – the last time we offered a Filly for NZ/Aus racing, the Lonhro 2yo “Ebony”, all of the shares were snapped up in 3 hours

Terms

  • Shares available right down to 1%.
  • 10% share $11,000  – 5% share  $5,500– 2.5% share $2,750 – 1% share $1,100 (all pricing in NZ$)
  • Share price includes all Initial Costs (Purchase price, GST, Promoters Fees, Insurance through to 31st January 2024, and Working Capital of $12,000 approx
  • Monthly ongoing costs from 1st January 2022 – from that date ongoing costs are – 10% share $440 per month – 5% share $220 per month – 2.5% share $110 per month – 1% share $44 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
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Fortuna Annual Owners Day – Matamata Race Course – Sunday 4th December
 
Venue – Epsom Lounge – Matamata Race course
Date – Sunday 4th December
Time – 1pm to 4pm
Format – Meet and Greet, light refreshments, Review of 2022 Calendar Year, Parade of all of the Fortuna Matamata based horses
Special Guest – Mark Walker

Registration – it is important that you register with your numbers – please do that by emailing jessica@fortuna-nz.comor you can call or text Jessica 021 288 6997
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Guest Selector

We have engaged a new guest selector for our weekly Friday Flash – Des Coppins has filled this role for the last few months but is stepping aside in favour of Tom Waterhouse and we thank Des for his services.

Tom Waterhouse is of course, a household name in Australian racing circles, being a scion of the legendary Waterhouse bookmaking family, a connection that goes back to his great grandfather Charles in the late 19th century and then perpetuated by his grandfather Bill and his father Robbie – Tom carried the bookmakers bag in his own right from 2003, left the bag behind when converting the business to an online one in 2010, before selling his business to William Hill in 2013 and staying on as CEO until 2018. And, of course, we have to mention that Tom has a classic racing pedigree on both sides of the family, with his mother, the effervescent and highly successful Sydney Trainer, Gai Waterhouse – with Gai being the daughter of the legendary Tommy Smith – it does not get much more “blue blooded” than that does it!!

After William Hill was sold to another bookmaking business in 2018, in a classic “poacher becoming gamekeeper” move, Tom then launched an online tipping service with the aim of helping punters beat the bookies

Tom’s tipping service is available by subscription (at a cost of course) with a whole range of packages – far too many mention here, but for example, there is a Daily Best Bet, where subscribers receive a daily email (there is also an App), a Weekly Five Best package and for Saturday racing, a Gold Package giving 20 bets for the day and a Silver Package giving 5 bets for the day – all of Tom’s packages provide historical data and, most importantly, a staking strategy and there is a package for every budget


Tom Waterhouse

Click HERE to visit Tom’s website

I am a subscriber myself and have enjoyed considerable success with the Silver Package (which has provided an average 18.4% Profit on Turnover and a 419.8% return on investment since inception in 2018) and can thoroughly recommend Tom’s services

Tom is going to give us one “Best Bet” for Australian Saturday racing and this week it is;

Ballarat Race 10 #1 DETONATOR JACK: Highly promising type unbeaten on wet ground.
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Friday Flash – 11th November 2022

Headline News;

Three Year Old Filly INCA BELLE wins strongly on debut at Pukekohe Park

LEADERBOARD to contest the NZ Cup 12th November, KHAFEEF is in the field but on the ballot

Two Year Old Filly RUBICON CROSSING runs 2nd in the Listed Welcome Stakes at Riccarton, earning valuable “black type” for her ownership group

NZ Bloodstock Ready To Run Sale to be held at Karaka 16th/17th November

Fortuna Annual Owners Day – Matamata Racecourse – Sunday 4th December

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Fortuna has six runners this weekend, four in NZ and two in Singapore

New Zealand  – Saturday 12th – Riccarton

NAVALHA runs in the R75 1600m – Race 10 @ 4.29pm and will be ridden by visiting Australian rider, Josh Parr. Brings good form into this race with a strong 3rd placing over 1400m this track 4th November. Is ready for this trip and looks a good each way chance here

KHAFEEF is dual nominated – he is B3 in the NZ Cup race 11 @ 5.09pm but if he does not get a start in the Cup he will run in the R82 2500m event – Race 8 @ 3.19pm. Form has been up and down but finished strongly for 4th 2500m this course 9th November. Beaten 4 lengths in the NZ Cup in 2021 after giving his rider a torrid time, he will have taken big improvement out of Wednesday’s run and will get the 3200 if he gets a start in  the Cup, but will also run well in the 2500 if that is his fate. Will be at odds.

LEADERBOARD runs in the NZ Cup – race 11 @ 5.09pm and will be ridden by Josh Parr from a wide barrier. Lead up form is nothing to write home about, although his run in the Metropolitan last week on a very firm track was not without merit. Key to this horse is simple  – he needs it to rain – he ran a bold 3rd last year in this event after morning rain and it looks like he may get a wettish track again. If the rain comes, he will stay the trip and will be a strong contender and good odds

Sunday 13th – Hastings

HAYATE runs in the R65 1200m – Race 4 @ 2.20pm and will be ridden by Craig Grylls from an inside barrier. After a strong debut win at Matamata in May, she disappointed on resuming in the new season, producing two very average efforts. Freshened briefly, she produced a dominant winning trial at Matamata 3rd November. Appears to have a lot of class – is set to bounce back to winning form here

Singapore – Sunday 13th

KERMAJACK runs in the Class 4 2000 Turf – Race 8 @ 3.30pm Singapore time (8.30pm NZT) and will be ridden from a handy draw by Lis Beuzelin. Three Singapore starts for three tail of the field results – he is on notice here but is up in trip to 2000m which is what he needs – hard to have on form

OLYMPIA contests the Class 5 1000m Poly – Race 10 @ 4.30pm Singapore time (9.30pm NZT) – Fadzli Yusoff will ride from a good barrier – doesn’t win out of turn, but very rarely out of the money – loves this trip. Hasn’t had all favours in recent runs and this is a winnable race for him at odds

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Fortuna Track work – Matamata

There was no timed Trackwork for Fortuna runners this week

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday  5th November

Rocky (Bayliss) – 1000/600 38;

Tuesday   8th November

King Arthur (Awah) – 800/600 38; Rocky (Jake) – 1000/600 40; Deception (Kok) – 800/600 38.5;

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Other News

Fortuna 3yo Filly INCA BELLE wins on debut at Pukekohe Park 8th November 2022
Published 8 November 2022
Given an economical trip by Champion Te Akau apprentice Joe KamaruddinInca Belle (3 f Per Incanto – Belle Vie, by Darci Brahma)recorded a debut victory in the $14,000 NZB Ready To Run Sale 16 & 17 Nov Maiden 1100 metres on 8 November at Pukekohe.

Good through trials stage and having finished strongly for second in a trial on 4 August at Te Rapa, the placement and timing by trainer Mark Walker was exemplary and the race set up perfectly.

Slightly slow away from a mid field gate (9), Inca Belle improved on the inner while a five-wide rush in front passing the 700 metres helped matters. On straightening, she accelerated quickly into contention at the 400m and saw the race out like a filly capable of further, despite drifting out very wide in the run home

Click HERE to see the race replay

Trainer, Mark Walker, down at Riccarton ahead of Coupland Mile day was very pleased with what he saw, “It was a lovely ride by Joe, saved all the ground and then came out and it was a good effort on debut,” he said “She hadn’t trialled since August but did go to the jumpouts last Friday, which shows the benefit of our jumpout system at Matamata.  It’s great when you can use them on the home track like trials. I think she’ll improve for both the experience and the run and gain confidence as well.”

  INCA BELLE – wins on debut – Pukekohe Park 8th November – Joe Kamaruddin aboard

On Good 4 footing, Inca Belle ran 1100 metres in 1:03.8, last 600m in 33, and paid generously ($11.10 & $2.80) on the NZ TAB tote.

The win also continued a rich vein for Little Avondale Stud leading stallion Per Incanto (Street Cry) whose mare Roch ‘N’ Horse became his higher earner after winning the $3m VRC Classic (Gr. 1, 1200m) last Saturday at Flemington. Inca Belle’s dam Belle Vie is a descendent of the famous “Belle” family, founded by James and Annie Sarten and perpetuated by their daughter, Marie Leicester, with the most famous Members of the family being the 14 time Group One winner, Melody Belle.

The family has been nurtured by Pencarrow Stud since (Sir) Peter and the late Philip Vela bought her fourth dam, Heidi Belle (Copenhagen 11).
Fortuna Director, John Galvin, was on course with a few syndicate Members and was very pleased with the outcome, “She was slightly fractious in the barriers and jumped a bit slow, but Joe didn’t panic and gave her a lovely soft run,”  he said  “He got her out to the middle of the track and I was sure she was going to finish second, but she responded to urging over the last 50 metres and got the job done. She’s a neat, tidy, filly and she’s very athletic. Congrats to Mark Walker, who took the punt that she was ready to race despite just having the jumpout last Friday”

“Smiling” Joe Kamaruddin salutes on returning to scale

Inca Belle was purchased by David Ellis CNZM and Fortuna Racing for $50,000 at the 2021 NZB Ready To Run Sale, from the draft of Phoenix Park, and is raced by the Fortuna Inca Belle Syndicate, an Ownership Group consisting of 49 individuals, mainly from NZ but also with Australian and Hong Kong based Members,

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LEADERBOARD to contest the NZ Cup 12th November, KHAFEEF is in the field but on the ballot

A real sense of “deja vue” hangs over the Fortuna runners in the 2022 running of the NZ Cup – firstly, our two runners from last year are in the field (but Khafeef needs 3 scratchings to get a run). Secondly, Leaderboard is out of form, but then again he was in  2021 also and lastly (and certainly not leastly), rain is being forecast late Friday and early Saturday – an important consideration for supporters of Leaderboard as rain will improve his chances significantly. For the record, Leaderboard ran 3rd last year, after hitting the front in the run home and then run down closing stages, while Khafeef finished 7th, beaten 4 lengths, after a topsy turvy run. Both horses have significant cross ownership amongst their syndicate Members and each are trained by different trainers. Khafeef Members will be praying for the 3 scratchings while Leaderboard Members are already down on their knees praying for a bit of rain

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Two Year Old Filly RUBICON CROSSING runs 2nd in the Listed Welcome Stakes at Riccarton, earning valuable “black type” for her ownership group

Victory was denied to this classy daughter of Rubick at Riccarton on 9th November but lost no admirers going down by ¾ length to her equally classy Stable mate, Sky On Fire. Drawn Barrier 8 whereas Sky On Fire had drawn closer to the rail, “Cube” as she is nicknamed, flew the gates in the hands of Lisa Allpress and crossed most of the field, eyeballing Sky On Fire as they screamed down the Riccarton chute. She briefly headed the Te Akau syndicated filly but had to concede closing stages.

Rubicon Crossing was picked out of the Magic Millions yearling sale in January 2022 by Mark Walker and was a A$120k purchase by David Ellis/Fortuna Racing. Interestingly enough Sky On Fire was also purchased at the same sale by David Ellis for A$400k, again picked out by Mark.

Both fillies are on their way back to Matamata where they will have a freshen up and may meet again in the Matamata Breeders Stakes at the end of February

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NZ Bloodstock Ready To Run Sale to be held at Karaka 16th/17th November

Yes, it’s that time of the year again and after the 2020 and 2021 editions were impacted by Covid, Vendors and NZ Bloodstock will be overjoyed to welcome back a full International buying bench. David and Mark with the usual assistance of Joe Walls and Marcus Corban have been conducting inspections and have drawn up a short list, which be trimmed down by sales day with final inspections and vetting.  Fortuna will “in the market” trying to buy another Inca Belle – watch this space!!!

Incidentally, Donna Logan and Peter Woods will be attending this sale

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Fortuna Annual Owners Day – Matamata Race Course – Sunday 4th December

Yes, it is that time of the year again and after two Covid affected years with attendances affected due to lockdowns, the powers that be have been kind enough to give us our freedoms back!!! and we are looking forward to hosting our usual 100 plus attendees.

Venue – Epsom Lounge – Matamata Race course
Date – Sunday 4th December
Time – 1pm to 4pm
Format – Meet and Greet, light refreshments, Review of 2022 Calendar Year, Parade of all of the Fortuna Matamata based horses
Special Guest – Mark Walker

Registration – it is important that you register with your numbers for catering reasons – please do that by emailing jessica@fortuna-nz.com or you can call or text Jessica 021 288 6997

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Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Greetings John and Fortuna team.

Back from Melbourne and apologies for not getting my selection to you last week.
I blame the omission on the wonderful hospitality and the great friendships we endured with our  80 strong tour party members; some of whom are shareholders in Fortuna managed horses.

It’s all been about Cup week in Christchurch for us all this week and Saturday’s tip is a horse we are all familiar with, Duke of Plumpton. He’s in race 10 at Riccarton. You may recall he was our pick last time he raced when unplaced into 6th at Trentham over Labour weekend. However, his first up run since campaigning with some success in Melbourne, was huge.He left the stalls slowly and sat last until the home straight where at one stage he was a conservative 20 lengths from the pace. Watching him make ground without being over exerted over the final 450m left me with little doubt that he was a “next up” proposition. The sectionals made interesting reading with the last 800m, 400 and 200 being the quickest in the race. On Saturday he has the promising apprentice Lily Sutherland on board and she’ll gain  a 3kgs allowance.

While DOP has won on dry ground he’s far better off with some cut in the ground. The weather forecast will favour him with on and off showers over the next 72 hours in Christchurch according to the weather radar. The price of $7 and $2.50 has me ready to go hard each way. If he’s out of the money I’ll be hoping the Fortuna horse, Navalha, who gets back to a mile, does the job. His consistency will soon be rewarded. Why don’t we do the quinella as well?

Good punting!

Des

Des runs  his very popular phone tipping line (you can access this by calling 0900 45459 – note this incurs a charge of $2.99 per minute) – this service has been active for over 25 years and covers all NZ gallops from 8am each race day).

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Fortuna 3yo Filly INCA BELLE wins on debut at Pukekohe Park 8th November 2022

Given an economical trip by Champion Te Akau apprentice Joe Kamaruddin, Inca Belle (3 f Per Incanto – Belle Vie, by Darci Brahma) recorded a debut victory in the $14,000 NZB Ready To Run Sale 16 & 17 Nov Maiden 1100 metres on 8 November at Pukekohe.

Good through trials stage and having finished strongly for second in a trial on 4 August at Te Rapa, the placement and timing by trainer Mark Walker was exemplary and the race set up perfectly.

Slightly slow away from a mid field gate (9), Inca Belle improved on the inner while a five-wide rush in front passing the 700 metres helped matters. On straightening, she accelerated quickly into contention at the 400m and saw the race out like a filly capable of further, despite drifting out very wide in the run home

Click HERE to see the race replay

Trainer, Mark Walker, down at Riccarton ahead of Coupland Mile day was very please with what he saw, “It was a lovely ride by Joe, saved all the ground and then came out and it was a good effort on debut,” he said “She hadn’t trialled since August but did go to the jumpouts last Friday, which shows the benefit of our jumpout system at Matamata.  It’s great when you can use them on the home track like trials. I think she’ll improve for both the experience and the run and gain confidence as well.”

  INCA BELLE – wins on debut – Pukekohe Park 8th November – Joe Kamaruddin aboard

On Good 4 footing, Inca Belle ran 1100 metres in 1:03.8, last 600m in 33, and paid generously ($11.10 & $2.80) on the NZ TAB tote.

The win also continued a rich vein for Little Avondale Stud leading stallion Per Incanto (Street Cry) whose mare Roch ‘N’ Horse became his higher earner after winning the $3m VRC Classic (Gr. 1, 1200m) last Saturday at Flemington. Inca Belle’s dam Belle Vie is a descendent of the famous “Belle” family, founded by James and Annie Sarten and perpetuated by their daughter, Marie Leicester, with the most famous Members of the family being the 14 time Group One winner, Melody Belle.

The family has been nurtured by Pencarrow Stud since (Sir) Peter and the late Philip Vela bought her fourth dam, Heidi Belle (Copenhagen 11).

Fortuna Director, John Galvin, was on course with a few syndicate Members and was very pleased with the outcome, “She was slightly fractious in the barriers and jumped a bit slow, but Joe didn’t panic and gave her a lovely soft run,”  he said  “He got her out to the middle of the track and I was sure she was going to finish second, but she responded to urging over the last 50 metres and got the job done. She’s a neat, tidy, filly and she’s very athletic. Congrats to Mark Walker, who took the punt that she was ready to race despite just having the jumpout last Friday”

“Smiling” Joe Kamaruddin salutes on returning to scale

Inca Belle was purchased by David Ellis CNZM and Fortuna Racing for $50,000 at the 2021 NZB Ready To Run Sale, from the draft of Phoenix Park, and is raced by the Fortuna Inca Belle Syndicate, an Ownership Group consisting of 49 individuals, mainly from NZ but also with Australian and Hong Kong based Members,

Friday Flash – 4th November 2022

Headline News;

Deception produces a strong winning performance in Singapore  29th Oct

Big Day Out for Fortuna Racing on 2000 Guineas Day at Riccarton 5th November with four runners including two runners in Stakes races

New Singapore Opportunity – the Charm Spirit – Thurlow 2yo “Rhett”

Fortuna Annual Owners Day – Matamata Racecourse – Sunday 4th December

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Fortuna has seven  runners this weekend, five in NZ and two in Singapore

New Zealand  – Saturday 5th

Te Rapa

SOPRANO SUPREME runs in the R86 2200m – Race 3 @ 1.55pm and will be ridden by Stable Apprentice Niranjan Parmar, claiming 3kgs. Failed at Ruakaka on a shifty track 1600m, then finished 7th Rotorua 1950m beaten 3.6 lengths after being ridden upside down. Gets her chance to atone here at a very suitable trip, blinkers off and just 51kgs to carry. Represents a good top 3 chance in this

Riccarton

DANCARINA runs in the R75 1100m – Race 4 @ 1.55pm and will be ridden by the Sydney based rider, Josh Parr from a mid field barrier draw. A winner over 1000m this track 3rd Sept, she followed up with a solid 3rd 1200m 1st October and then struck traffic problems in the run home 1200m 22nd October – blinkers go on. Speedy type, 1100m suits – can feature here

LEADERBOARD contests the time honoured Metropolitan Trophy, a Listed Race over 2500m – Race 7 @ 3.47pm in the hands of Craig Grylls. This is a lead up race for him ahead of the NZ Cup 3200m 12th November. Looking for this sort of trip but lead up form has been disappointing and will need to lift to feature here

NAVALHA runs in the R75 1400m – Race 8 @ 3.59pm – Josh Parr takes the ride from a mid field barrier. A winner this track 1200 metres in September, he ran 5th without luck this trip Ashburton 15th October. Roomy Riccarton track will suit, ready for this – solid top 3 chance

MALBOROUGH BAY contests the NZ 2000 Guineas – Group One 1600m – $550,000 Stake – Race 9 @ 4.30pm – NZ leading rider, Craig Grylls, to ride from barrier 4. Three Riccarton runs since 3rd September for three placings with the fastest closing sectionals in two of them, he is well prepared for this race and has run the 1600m trip here last start. Meets a very good, but even field here. Needs to find another length or so to feature, but is more than capable of doing so at double figure odds

Singapore – Saturday 5th

TRIDENT runs in the Class 4 1400 Turf – Race 3 @ 1pm Singapore time (6pm NZT) and will be ridden from a mid field draw by Singapore’s leading apprentice, Fadzli Yusoff, with a 2kg claim. Five starts for 2 wins, 3 2nds and S$113k in Stakes says it all about this lovely 4yo son of Deep Field – was a little green in the run home last start, but gets a real opportunity here to show his class – is a strong top 3 chance.

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club Tipsters have to say about this race:

1st Pick: DREAM ALLIANCE (6)
Broke class record last start in open maiden company. Nothing in the race has run remotely close to that time in class 4 and due to the class rise, he drops weight. Should strip fitter and be able to repeat last start performance. One to beat.
2nd Pick: TRIDENT (3)
Consistent horse in the field. Constantly puts in good runs and must never be forgotten or not respected.
3rd Pick: SATURNO SPRING (1)
Drops in grade but draws poorly. Up to the task but will need some luck early from the gate, top three hope.
4th Pick: MINI FORCE X (4)
Impressed in first run for the new stable, looking to see him improve more as he gets deeper into this preparation. One for the exotics.

ENTERTAINER contests the Class 2 1100 Poly – race 7 @39m Singapore Time (8pm NZT) – Yusoff to ride claiming 2kgs from the outside barrier – an 8 time winner in Singapore with S$300k in earnings, he loves this trip and surface with 7 of his 8 wins coming at both – up in grade to Class 2 for this and meets some handy types and will need some luck from his outside draw – good each way chance

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Fortuna Track work – Matamata

There was no timed Trackwork for Fortuna runners this week

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday  29th October

Entertainer (Yusoff) – 1000/600 38.5; King Arthur (Yusoff) – 37.5; Trident (Yusoff) (Aslam) – 1000/600 37.5;

Tuesday  1st November

Entertainer (Yusoff) – 800/600 39; Rocky (Yusoff) – 800/600 38.5; Trident (Yusoff) – 800/600 38.5;

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Other News

DECEPTION wins again in Singapore – 29th October 2022
Published 30 October 2022

DECEPTION, the four year old gelding by I Am Invincible out of Friday Hussy put a frustrating run of bad luck behind him when scoring a stylish victory at Singapore’s Kranji race track 29th October in the Class 4 1200m Turf event. Ridden by apprentice Simon Kok with a 1kg claim, DECEPTION  had drawn barrier 1 in the 12 horse field. Pre race tactics were for him to go easy from the nice gate and take a sit back in the field on the rail and then race home powerfully at the end. Kok played these tactics to perfection, having DECEPTION three back the rail and traveling nicely on the bridle in the run. Turning for home, there was no immediate clear passage to get into the clear past Strong N Smart, but Simon waited patiently until that horse rolled off the rail and giving DECEPTION some rein, the horse sprinted through on the rail going to the line clear by 3/4 of a length

Click HERE to see the replay.

Trainer Donna Logan, who took her 2022 season total to 56 wins and maintained her lead at the top of the Trainer’s Premiership along with Tim Fitzsimmons, was a relieved trainer post race “That was a great result for this horse and fully deserved – he is a class animal but just hasn’t had his share of luck since winning for the first time back in May – Fortuna Racing’s John Galvin and I discussed tactics before the race and Simon executed them perfectly – well done to John and his Ownership team, they have now had 18 wins in Singapore so far in the season.”


DECEPTION – 2nd Career win – Singapore 29th October 2022 – Simon Kok aboard

John Galvin, watching from his home in Hamilton, New Zealand, was over the moon with the result  “That was a very satisfying result – Deception has been so consistent – he has collected a cheque 13 times from his 15 races, but has just not had the rub of the green on so many occasions – top ride by Simon Kok, who rode him to instructions perfectly and well done to Donna and her team, they are true professionals.”

DECEPTION was originally acquired as a yearling by the China Horse Club/Newgate partnership, who fancied him as a Stallion prospect due to his very strong pedigree, for A$750,000 at the 2020 Magic Million Yearling Sale and given to Peter and Paul Snowden to train in Sydney. However after two trials and showing signs of real coltyness, his ownership group decided to sell him unreserved, as they do not race geldings, preferring to focus on Stallion prospects

Fortuna acquired DECEPTION at the April 2021 Inglis Online Sale for just A$65,000, he was  gelded within a couple of days of purchase and shipped to Singapore to race. He has now accumulated S$150,000 in Stakes money in Singapore

DECEPTION is raced by the Fortua Deception Syndicate, an ownership group of 37 individuals from New Zealand, Australia and Malaysia

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Big Day Out for Fortuna Racing on 2000 Guineas Day at Riccarton 5th November with four runners including two runners in Stakes races

A big crew of Fortuna Syndicate Members, probably around 50 in total, will descend on Riccarton racecourse from all parts of the country this Saturday to attend the first day of the Riccarton carnival. Fortuna Racing has four contenders in four different races with undoubtedly, the 3yo MALBOROUGH BAY (Darci Brahma-Spin ‘N Grin), contending the NZ 2000 Guineas, being the main  attraction. However, LEADERBOARD also features in a Stakes race, that being the time honoured Metropolitan Trophy. DANCARINA and NAVALHA, both recent winners at Riccarton, make up the quartet. Fortuna has not had a runner in the 2000 Guineas since TELL A TALE won in dramatic fashion in 2008.

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New Singapore Opportunity – the Charm Spirit – Thurlow 2yo – “Rhett”
 
Just 15% left!!!

 Charm Spirit out of Thurlow 2yo

By Charm Spirit, who is having an exceptional run in Singapore this season and out of the dual Stakes winner, Thurlow (by Sebring), “Rhett” as we have nicknamed him, is a handsome physical type standing at 16 hands and tipping the scales at just over 500 kgs – he has a great pedigree page (see below) and you can view his pre sale Breeze Up gallopHERE and his parade HERE

10% share = $15,200, 5% share = $7,600, 2.5% share = $3,800 and 1% share = $1,520. This includes Purchase price, Promoters Fees, Vetting costs, Transport to Singapore, Insurance paid to 31 Jan 2024 and working capital of just under $14k – And then $40 per month per each 1% share from 1 Jan 2023

Contact John by return email or call/text 021 921 460 for more information. Or Click HERE to order a share direct off the Fortuna website

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Fortuna Annual Owners Day – Matamata Race Course – Sunday 4th December

Yes, it is that time of the year again

Venue – Epsom Lounge – Matamata Race course

Date – Sunday 4th December

Time – 1pm to 4pm

Format – Meet and Greet, light refreshments, Review of 2022 Calendar Year, Parade of all of the Fortuna Matamata based horses

Special Guest – Mark Walker

Registration – it is important that you register with your numbers for catering purposes – please do that by emailing jessica@fortuna-nz.com or you can call or text Jessica 021 288 6997
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DECEPTION wins again in Singapore – 29th October 2022

DECEPTION, the four year old gelding by I Am Invincible out of Friday Hussy put a frustrating run of bad luck behind him when scoring a stylish victory at Singapore’s Kranji race track 29th October in the Class 4 1200m Turf event. Ridden by apprentice Simon Kok with a 1kg claim, DECEPTION  had drawn barrier 1 in the 12 horse field. Pre race tactics were for him to go easy from the nice gate and take a sit back in the field on the rail and then race home powerfully at the end. Kok played these tactics to perfection, having DECEPTION three back the rail and traveling nicely on the bridle in the run. Turning for home, there was no immediate clear passage to get into the clear past Strong N Smart, but Simon waited patiently until that horse rolled off the rail and giving DECEPTION some rein, the horse sprinted through on the rail going to the line clear by 3/4 of a length

Click HERE to see the replay.

Trainer Donna Logan, who took her 2022 season total to 56 wins and maintained her lead at the top of the Trainer’s Premiership along with Tim Fitzsimmons, was a relieved trainer post race “That was a great result for this horse and fully deserved – he is a class animal but just hasn’t had his share of luck since winning for the first time back in May – Fortuna Racing’s John Galvin and I discussed tactics before the race and Simon executed them perfectly – well done to John and his Ownership team, they have now had 18 wins in Singapore so far in the season.”

Deception – wins Class 4 1200m 29th October  2022 – Simon Kok aboard

John Galvin, watching from his home in Hamilton, New Zealand, was over the moon with the result  “That was a very satisfying result – Deception has been so consistent – he has collected a cheque 13 times from his 15 races, but has just not had the rub of the green on so many occasions – top ride by Simon Kok, who rode him to instructions perfectly and well done to Donna and her team, they are true professionals.”

DECEPTION was originally acquired as a yearling by the China Horse Club/Newgate partnership, who fancied him as a Stallion prospect due to his very strong pedigree, for A$750,000 at the 2020 Magic Million Yearling Sale and given to Peter and Paul Snowden to train in Sydney. However after two trials and showing signs of real coltyness, his ownership group decided to sell him unreserved, as they do not race geldings, preferring to focus on Stallion prospects

Fortuna acquired DECEPTION at the April 2021 Inglis Online Sale for just A$65,000, he was  gelded within a couple of days of purchase and shipped to Singapore to race. He has now accumulated S$150,000 in Stakes money in Singapore

DECEPTION is raced by the Fortua Deception Syndicate, an ownership group of 37 individuals from New Zealand, Australia and Malaysia

Friday Flash – 28th October 2022

Headline News;

New Singapore Opportunity – the Charm Spirit – Thurlow 2yo – “Rhett”

Fortuna Annual Owners Day – Matamata Racecourse – Sunday 4th December

Melbourne Cup Betting Strategy

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Fortuna has three runners this weekend, one in NZ and two in Singapore
 
New Zealand  – Saturday 29th
MOHAWK BRAVE runs at Matamata in the R75 1200m – Race 6 @ 2.53pm and will be ridden by Stable Apprentice Niranjan Parmar, claiming 3kgs, from an outside barrier draw. The winner of three of his first four career races as a 3yo, Mohawk has run 4th at Taupo in his resuming run in the new season and then failed at Ruakaka in September. He gets his chance to atone here. Will need a lot of luck to feature here from his wide draw but is capable of running in the money if back to his best.
Singapore – Saturday 29th
KERMAJACK contests the Class 4 1600m Turf event – Race 10 @9.30 NZ time (4.30 Singapore time) and will be ridden by Louis Beuzelin from a good barrier draw. A natural staying type, Kermajack had had one run over 1400m since resuming after recovering from wind surgery. He has been stepped up straight to 1600m this week and has blinkers applied. The longer trip will suit but is probably going to need this run before showing his best

DECEPTION runs in the Class 4 1200 Turf – Race 11 @ 10pm NZ time (5pm Singapore time) and will be ridden by Simon Kok, claiming 1kg from the Ace barrier draw. A bold 2nd last start when contesting a Novice event, he carries just 51 kgs here and will get a soft run in behind the speed from his nice draw. Meets a tidy field here but is primed and ready to run another good race here and represents a top three chance

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Fortuna Track work – Matamata
 
Tuesday  25th October

Angels Wings (M Roustoby) worked over 1000 metres in 1.03.4, home in 36.78.

Thursday  27th October

Mohawk Brave (B King) worked over an easy 1000 metres in 1.10.21, home in 39.17.

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday  22nd October

Entertainer (Yusoff) – 1000/600 39; King Arthur (Yusoff) – 1000/600 37.3;

Tuesday  25thth October

Deception (Simon Kok) – 800/600 40.5;

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Other News

Fortuna secures a Charm Spirit Colt for Singapore Racing at the Inglis R2R Sale in Sydney

2yo Colt by Charm Spirit out of Thurlow

By Charm Spirit, who is having an exceptional run in Singapore this season and out of the dual Stakes winner, Thurlow (by Sebring), “Rhett” as we have nicknamed him, is a handsome physical type standing at 16 hands and tipping the scales at just over 500 kgs – he has a great pedigree page (see below) and you can view his pre sale Breeze Up gallopHERE and his parade HERE

10% share = $15,200, 5% share = $7,600, 2.5% share = $3,800 and 1% share = $1,520. This includes Purchase price, Promoters Fees, Vetting costs, Transport to Singapore, Insurance paid to 31 Jan 2024 and working capital of just under $14k – And then $40 per month per each 1% share from 1 Jan 2023

Contact John by return email or call/text 021 921 460 for more information. Or Click HERE to order a share direct off the Fortuna website

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Fortuna Annual Owners Day – Matamata Race Course – Sunday 4th December

Yes, it is that time of the year again and after two Covid affected years with attendances affected due to lockdowns, the powers that be have been kind enough to give us our freedoms back!!! and we are looking forward to hosting our usual 100 plus attendees.
Venue – Epsom Lounge – Matamata Race course
Date – Sunday 4th December
Time – 1pm to 4pm
Format – Meet and Greet, light refreshments, Review of 2022 Calendar Year, Parade of all of the Fortuna Matamata based horses

Special Guest – Mark Walker

Registration – it is important that you register with your numbers attending – please do that by emailing jessica@fortuna-nz.com 
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John’s Melbourne Cup Betting Strategy

Wow, the first Tuesday in Melbourne is upon us. The day that stops a nation has a rich history and even those with little interest in racing often get involved in workplace sweepstakes and the like.

With 24 runners and form lines that are hard to read, the Melbourne Cup provides great dividends; it is not hard to get double figure odds on all but the first two or three favourites and who can forget the First four dividend of the 2012 event, paying just a touch under $1 million for a $1 unit.

John Galvin here below outlines a suggested betting strategy for the Melbourne Cup. It is a strategy that both the experienced and “mug” punter can apply to this great event.

The objective is to, as a minimum, get back all or some of the initial outlay and at a maximum scoop the pool – Suggested Capital outlay $100. Not a small amount of money for many, but, hey, this is the Melbourne Cup.

First Step
Select Nine Horses from the Twenty Four Starters and label these horses in your order of preference  A,B,C,D,E,F,G,H,I

Second Step. Place Bets as follows
Win and Place Bets. Horses A and B  $10 to Win and $10 to Place on each. If A and/or B Wins or runs a Place, you will collect. Cost of these bets = $40

Quinella Bets. To win on this bet, you must have the 1st and second runners on your ticket in either finishing order. Select A as an Anchor and B through to I to run 2nd. Select B as an anchor and A though to I to run second.  If either A or B runs first or second and one of the anchors runs first or second you will collect. Bet $1 units.  Cost of these bets = $16.

Trifecta Bet. Here your bet is to be a percentage bet of 25%. This means that if you are successful, you will receive 25% of the declared trifecta Dividend. Select horses ABC to run 1st, ABCDE to run 2nd and ABCDEFG to run 3rd. Total Units=60, Cost of bet @ 25% = $15

First Four Bet. This is the “biggie”. Again your bet will be a percentage bet; this time for 8%. Select ABC to run 1st, ABCDE to run 2nd, ABCDEFG to run 3rd and ABCDEFGHI to run fourth.  Total Units=360, Cost of Bet @ 8% = $29.

So, how would you have done in the 2021 event if you had used this betting strategy? Notable that the first three home last year were “in” the market, so the 2021 divvies were modest by comparison with previous years

Well, the winner, Verry Elleegant, paid $16.50 for the win and $4.50 for the place so a $10 each way bet on her would have returned 210

The quinella paid $21.80 so if you had 1st and 2nd home, you would have collected a further $21.80

The trifecta paid $386 so with all the right numbers on your ticket a 25% percentage bet would have returned $96.50 for the $15 outlay

The First 4 paid $5,413 so an 8% percentage bet would have returned $433 for the $29 outlay if you had the right numbers on your ticket

I trust you get the idea; it is a great way of spreading a reasonable outlay of $100 on the day and, at the very least, having a bit of fun; at best, you may have a five or even six figure collect.

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Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Good morning John and Team

I’ve been in Melbourne since with the majority of the tour since Wednesday and it’s all been rain, rain and more rain!

Despite that I’m looking forward to the wonderful racing that’s in store over the next week.
Before I pass you my Derby Day pick of the day it’s probably fair to say that last week’s tip, Duke of Plumpton, who ran at Trentham on Sunday, had next up written all over him.
He settled in the rear in a strung out field over 1400m and would have been standing up the leaders 15-20 lengths on the turn but he hit the line solidly without being really extended to record the fastest all over sectionals in 6th place.

Paste him in your hat. I spoke with Kevin Myers after the race and he’s setting him for a mile at Riccarton over Cup week.

Tomorrow with the expected wet track at Flemington I’m going for a price with Grand Impact in the Coolmore. He’s unbeaten and won the Blue Sapphire in good style at Caulfield. All three of his wins have been on rain affected tracks so he won’t be worried about the expected damp conditions at Flemington up the straight six. He’s tacking the straight course for the first time but my spies told me that he had a very soft jump out there last Friday to familiarise himself. At $9 and $3, one unit over two makes sense.

Good punting both in NZ and in Australia.

P.s. For the Melbourne Cup on Tuesday I haven’t completely made up my mind but I have a strong feeling for JMac’s ride, Loft, the German import. German runners have the best strike rate this century in the race. In fact there may be another who competed but only two German horses come to mind who have run in the Cup, the winners, Protectionist (2014) and Almandin (2016).

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