Court Of Appeal – 2nd career victory – Taupo 26th February 2025 – Masa Hashizume aboard
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Headline News
COURT OF APPEAL wins emphatically at Taupo 26th Feb
Vale Mike Moroney
Shares available in three different Fortuna horses
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Fortuna has one runner this weekend
Wingatui – Saturday
STAR SHADOW is an acceptor in the (Listed) Dunedin Guineas – Race 7 @3.27pm with Sam Wynne engaged to ride from Barrier 2, but is on the ballot and will need two scratchings to get a start – Powerful finish for 2nd this trip 5th Feb at Riccarton and can make her presence felt here if she gets a start – TAB say “Racing better last two starts – well drawn – can be in the trifecta or first four” – Showing $14/$3.90
Fortuna 4yo Racemare COURT OF APPEAL wins emphatically at Taupo 26th February 2025
Published27 February 2025
Given a dream run by jockey Masa Hashizume, Court Of Appeal(4 m Eminent – Katy O’Beel, by Zabeel) was an easy winner in the $25,000 Joe Yorke Bloodstock Rating 65 1800 metres on 26 February at Taupo for the Fortuna Racing Team
Recording a third win on the card for trainers Mark Walker & Sam Bergerson, following Shockabella (Shocking) and Lady Of Court (Savabeel), both ridden by Craig Grylls, Court Of Appeal had been given time since running home with more to offer in the Rating 65 1600 metres on 27 January at Tauranga, and appeared ideally drawn (1) to prove competitive in a solid field. With the draw ensuring an economical trip, Court Of Appeal was allowed to find her feet back on the inner, ninth of eleven and seven lengths astern at the 600m, but when a grand parting occurred turning for home she quickly asserted authority to race clear with a two and a quarter length winning margin.
“She jumped okay and I had to give her a couple of slaps to keep up, but after that she settled straight away,” Hashizume said. “She was going so good on the corner, luckily everyone came off the fence, and she quickened well through the gap. She kept galloping strongly to the line.”
On Good4 footing, Court Of Appeal ran 1800 metres in 1:51.6, last 600m in 36.0, and paid handsomely ($11.10 & $3.00) on the NZ TAB tote.
“It was a really good win and certainly a lovely ride of Masa’s,” said Mark Walker, who trains with Sam Bergerson. “She’s been promising for a while, went through a growing stage and weakened off, but she’s coming back to it and John Galvin and his team of owners have been really patient with her. She’ll be up into a much tougher grade now, but hopefully that win gives her a lot of confidence. We’re looking forward to watching her progress over the next six to 12 months. The mother was much better as an older horse, as well, and it’s a family that is slower maturing.”
Court Of Appeal – 2nd career victory – Taupo 27th February 2025 – Masa Hashizume aboard
Purchased for $20,000 by David Ellis CNZM and Fortuna Racing from the Karaka 2022 Book 2 Sale, from the draft of Brighthill Farm, she is owned by Fortuna Court Of Appeal Syndicate (Mgr: John Galvin), an ownership group comprising 47 individuals
“We’ve had a lot of winners here at Taupo over the years and it’s a fantastic track and venue to come to,” said John Galvin, who was present on track for the inaugural Cockies Racing Day, which attracted over 250 farmers. “It was hard to get a carpark when I arrived, which is incredible, but it just goes to show how well the Club has promoted the day and how much local support they get.”
John also congratulated Club President Terry Campbell and his committee and track staff for the irrigation system that has been installed.
“I went onto the track with Terry before the race and it has a magnificent sole of grass, so it’s a really good effort from everyone involved,” he said.
“Well done to Mark and Sam for training this horse so well, as she had had her quirks. She’s a lovely Mare that we bought as a staying type from Book 2 at Karaka, we didn’t pay a lot, and out of a Zabeel mare, so she was great buying. We have a couple of our owners here, John Nixon and Julie Carter, both Fortuna stalwarts, and congratulations to all in her ownership group. I thought she might lack a bit of early speed, which she did and got shuffled back, but the (genuine) tempo of the race helped, and as they turned for home it was like the Red Sea opening up in front of her. Well done to her rider, Masa, who’s had a recent comeback after injury – he judged the tempo of the race perfectly, allowing the horse to find her feet and run home strong”
Brighthill Farm stallion Eminent, a Group Two winner and dual Group One placed son of peerless racehorse and sire Frankel (Galileo) – currently leading the TRC Global Sires Rankings – was trained by Sir Mark Todd and owned by Sir Peter Vela. From the first crop by Eminent, Court Of Appeal is out of a mare that won three times to 2200 metres, in turn from sensational staying mare Katy Keen (Zorro’s Lad), a Group Two and Group Three winner that won 10 times to 2500 metres.
Court Of Appeal is the second winner from Katy O’Beel, following Enright (Power), a three-time winner to 2100 metres.
Racing world mourns the passing of Hall of Fame trainer Mike Moroney
Dennis Ryan
27 February 2025
The racing world is in mourning following the news that New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame trainer Mike Moroney passed away in Melbourne this morning at the age of 66. Moroney, a protégé of legendary trainer Dave O’Sullivan, founded Ballymore Stables in his hometown Matamata in the early 1980s and his almost immediate success led to the establishment of a complementary stable in Australia in 1997.
Initially based in Adelaide, his win with Second Coming in that year’s Victoria Derby led to Moroney being allocated stabling at the historic Chiquita Lodge at Flemington. From there he became a Melbourne Cup-winning trainer in 2000 with Brew, and for good measure Second Coming finished third.
Moroney was inducted to the New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame in May 2023, less than a year after his father Denny, who could fairly be described as his greatest influence, had passed away at age 93. Moroney senior introduced him and his younger brother Paul to racing, not forgetting that their mother Mary was the daughter of Charlie and Ellie Casey, the breeders 1960 Centenary Melbourne Cup winner Hi-Jinx.
While Paul was to find his niche as a bloodstock agent, Mike’s beginnings were as a stablehand at Wexford Stables alongside Paul O’Sullivan, and after doing the hard yards together, they were granted their trainer’s licences on the same day and joined Dave O’Sullivan in a three-way partnership at the start of the 1981-82 season. Moroney took little time to establish his own bona fides when making the decision to go it alone at Ballymore Stables, winning with his very first starter and claiming the first of 55 Group One victories with Imperial Angel in the 1985 New Zealand 1000 Guineas.
Besides Brew and Second Coming, star performers during Moroney’s more than four decades as a trainer included New Zealand Horse of the Year Xcellent, Happyanuniot, a Group One winner in New Zealand and later a winner three times at that level in the United States, VATC 1000 Guineas winner Shizu, and classy sprinting mares Tofane and Roch’N’Horse. They were both graduates of Ballymore Matamata and found their peak form in Australia, Roch’N’Horse winning the Gr. 1 Newmarket and Champions Sprint at Flemington, and Tofane scoring four times at Group One level across Australia’s three major eastern states.
Pam Gerard was the last of Moroney’s training partners to manage the Matamata operation, and she took sole ownership of Ballymore Matamata last July.
Moroney had become seriously ill in April and took his foreman Glen Thompson into partnership at the start of the current season. One of his rare raceday attendances was to the 2024 Melbourne Cup and the final one was just last Saturday, where he was at Caulfield to be part of Coeur Volante’s return to form in the Gr.3 Mannerism Stakes.
“Mike rang me just yesterday for a chat and he was looking forward to being a guest of the VRC at Flemington on Saturday,” his brother Paul said. “While he had his health challenges, none of us were expecting this, but he passed away peacefully in his sleep. It’s comforting to know that his daughter Aleisha and her husband Chad arrived in Melbourne yesterday and were able to spend some enjoyable time with Mike and his partner Karen last night. As brothers growing up on the family dairy farm, Mike and I had a fantastic relationship, we were always competitive and shared a passion and fascination for racing fostered by our parents and other family members. The greatest quality that led to his success as a trainer was his affinity for animals and his work ethic. He was never flustered, he always made plans, setting goals and working backwards, but all the time having that ability to change things if necessary. I’m proud to say that he and I worked well together, combining our skills and always throwing ideas around, all the time challenging each other. So many of Ballymore’s big wins were shared by both of us.
“Since the news broke this morning, I’ve had countless messages and calls, and the one thing that’s come through is how respected and liked Mike was by everyone. As one person said, not only was he was a champion trainer, but a champion bloke as well. John comments “In the 1980’s I was a 50/50 sharemilker on a dairy farm at Hinuera near Matamata – I had befriended Neville Bradford who was the Stud Manager on a nearby Thoroughbred Stud Farm owned at the time by the late Arthur Hughes. Neville was the son of the acclaimed Racing journalist, the late Dave Bradford and was also a (very youthful) committee man on the Matamata Racing Club so was well connected to the racing industry. Nev was a great socialiser and maintained a very well appointed bar in his home on Hopkins Road, which along with a magnificent Perreaux Hifi sound system and a collection of Rock LP’s to die for made for a great social occasion. Drinks after a hard day’s work was relatively common at Nev’s place and it was there that I first met the Moroney brothers, Mike and Paul and struck up a good friendship with them. The late Dr Jim Marks, one of the most respected equine vets in New Zealand’s history was a regular attendee at our “sessions” and the iconic racecaller, Keith Haub, was also a regular, where after a cay’s calling at the Matamata races, he would regale us with stories of his race calling and horse ownership exploits. Mike Moroney, had at the time just recently branched out as a young trainer on his own after being associated with the O’Sullivan Stable for several years and so I was following his career with much interest. Eventually he embarked on a training career in Australia, while still maintaining his NZ operation and so was certainly a trail blazer in that respect and the rest “is history” as they say.
Over the years, Mike and I would run into each other at sales or race meetings on either sides of the Tasman and as other parties have mentioned, he was always the perfect gentleman, friendly, caring and always showing interest in what his former friends and associates were up to in their lives.
In 2023, Melody Belle was inducted into the NZ Hall Of Fame and it was just great for me personally to be able to share that occasion with Mike and other Members of the Moroney family, as he was inducted as a “Hall of Famer” at the same time. Rest in Peace Mike.
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Shares available in three different Fortuna horses
In Victoria
Colour Sergeant (14.5% left – will have his first start for us Friday 7th March at Ballarat)
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 Friday 7th March at Ballarat
Bred to get a trip, he has got down to just 63 points in the ratings and has jumping potential
Still shares left at $570 per each 1% and NZ$60 pm from 1 March
Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be placed directly from the website – place your order ahead of Friday’s race and you will have a winning chance that day
This exciting prospect was acquired by us at the recent Inglis Classic Sale in Sydney 9th February
Early Foal and early running type, she should be making her 2yo race debut in the Spring of 2025
By the Young Stallion, ALABAMA EXPRESS who is really making his mark with just two crops racing
This Filly to be trained by Multiple time Champion Trainer Mark Walker at Cranbourne in Victoria
She is to be registered for the Inglis Race Series, carrying Bonuses of several Million Dollars
Click HERE to see her parading at the Inglis Sale with comments from Mark just after we had bought her
Shares available at NZ$1700 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
ALABAMA EXPRESS – CAMILA LUCINDA Yearling Filly
In New Zealand
Savabeel – Lady Tatia Yearling Filly (just 7.5% left)
Acquired by us at The Karaka Book One Sale late January, she is Karaka Millions Series registered and is also eligible to run in the NZ Kiwi for 3yos in 2027
By the multi time Champion Stallion Savabeel who has sired 8 Stakes winners in NZ/Aus in the current season, with a career total of 146 Stakes Winners including 35 Group One winners
An early foal, she presents as an early running 2yo type – is very forward and is already in her 2nd week of being broken in and is clear prospect for the Karaka Million 2yo event in January 2026
To be trained at Matamata by Mark Walker/Sam Bergerson
Shares available at NZ$2200 per each 1% and NZ$50 pm from 1 April
Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be placed directly from the website
The SAVABEEL – LADY TATIA Filly
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Guest Selector – Des Coppins
Here is what Des has for our readers this week
Greetings John and your readers
Congratulations on the impressive winning run by your mare Court of Appeal at Taupo. You’d have to think the way she did the job she won’t take too long to win again. For the record, the NZ St Leger winner (2800m) of 2008 Katy Keen is the grand dam of Court of Appeal which clearly suggests distances further than the 1800m that she comfortably coped with on Wednesday should not be an issue.
Before unveiling horses to watch this weekend we weren’t far away last week with 14 to one chance Tardelli, who did well from a wide draw to be narrowly beaten into third and the luckless Who Rox the House, who also ran third after being tightened for room over the concluding stages. Sadly the third hope, Trav, never got to the starting gates at Otaki after the meeting was aborted after one race. I still believe in Trav, the unluckiest of all in the Wellington Cup. He’s still heading to try and make amends at Ellerslie next Saturday for the two mile Auckland Cup. He’s had a trial and a jump out since Trentham and fear not, astute trainer Raymond Connors will have him pretty much spot on for Ellerslie. His odds as I write this are $21 and $6. You could do a lot worse 8 days out because realistically our stayers this year aren’t overly strong.
Prior to releasing my three to follow can I use this medium to pass on deepest condolences to the Moroney family after the very sad loss of one of the great guys of racing for the last 40 years or so, Michael Moroney. He deservedly made it to the last induction of the NZ Racing Hall of Fame. He had battled ill health for a time but was back on his feet and doing what he loves, casting and eagle eye over his racing team in Melbourne and plotting further wins with his large and successful team.
RIP Michael, a legend of NZ and Australian racing.
Navigator: race 7 Matamata
Forget his last run from an awkward draw at Te Rapa at group one level. He began awkwardly and raced three wide without cover throughout. The start before he demonstrated his class with a bold third in the group one Telegraph. Here’s an interesting statistic, outside his last start with that very genuine excuse, he’s never further been further than 4 lengths from the winners in the 10 starts he hasn’t won. He’s won on all surfaces but I reckon he’s better on good to soft; in other words the old “easy” classification. He’s drawn handy enough to get the right run just behind the pace. I’d have a good each way bet on him but have a close look at the odd surge which might be close to $10.
December, race 5 Matamata
That was a horrible watch when 4th after scraggy old start through no fault of the horse last time at Te Rapa. The horse reared as the start was effected and the jockey was of the belief that the barrier malfunctioned. Because it featured in a dividend bearing position the horse could not be declared a late scratching. Therefore those of us who backed him at Te Rapa will be looking for amends any which way we can. At the odds I’ll be anchoring him on my quaddie ticket as one bet. Mind you at around $4.50 on the odds surge the price is right also for a solo win bet. Maybe some insurance with the roving banker trifecta bet isn’t silly either.
He’s A Doozy, race 9 Wingatui
The form may not read well but put aside his seemingly lack lustre staying effort in the Herbie Dyke and read into the form beforehand.
In running 9th in the Thorndon Mile he didn’t get the best of runs and was squeezed once or twice in the straight. He ran 4th at Otaki three starts back after getting well back in the initial part but hit the line into 4th with real purpose and he was also in the judicial report in the group one TAB Classic at Trentham after again getting the shuffle up at the wrong time of the race.
He’s a group one Thorndon, Coupland’s Mile and Thompson Mile at Trentham winner. He’s therefore running over his favourite distance. Although he’s capable of running a 1.40 1600m on a wet track I reckon he’d prefer a 1.36-37 1600m type surface.
Thankfully for the big day at Wingatui – apart from the odd sprinkling- track conditions and overall weather should be okay if the weather forecasters can be relied on.
Good punting!
Given a dream run by jockey Masa Hashizume, Court Of Appeal(4 m Eminent – Katy O’Beel, by Zabeel) was an easy winner in the $25,000 Joe Yorke Bloodstock Rating 65 1800 metres on 26 February at Taupo for the Fortuna Racing Team
Recording a third win on the card for trainers Mark Walker & Sam Bergerson, following Shockabella (Shocking) and Lady Of Court (Savabeel), both ridden by Craig Grylls, Court Of Appeal had been given time since running home with more to offer in the Rating 65 1600 metres on 27 January at Tauranga, and appeared ideally drawn (1) to prove competitive in a solid field. With the draw ensuring an economical trip, Court Of Appeal was allowed to find her feet back on the inner, ninth of eleven and seven lengths astern at the 600m, but when a grand parting occurred turning for home she quickly asserted authority to race clear with a two and a quarter length winning margin.
“She jumped okay and I had to give her a couple of slaps to keep up, but after that she settled straight away,” Hashizume said. “She was going so good on the corner, luckily everyone came off the fence, and she quickened well through the gap. She kept galloping strongly to the line.”
On Good4 footing, Court Of Appeal ran 1800 metres in 1:51.6, last 600m in 36.0, and paid handsomely ($11.10 & $3.00) on the NZ TAB tote.
“It was a really good win and certainly a lovely ride of Masa’s,” said Mark Walker, who trains with Sam Bergerson. “She’s been promising for a while, went through a growing stage and weakened off, but she’s coming back to it and John Galvin and his team of owners have been really patient with her. She’ll be up into a much tougher grade now, but hopefully that win gives her a lot of confidence. We’re looking forward to watching her progress over the next six to 12 months. The mother was much better as an older horse, as well, and it’s a family that is slower maturing.”
Court Of Appeal – 2nd career victory – Taupo 27th February 2025 – Masa Hashizume aboard
Purchased for $20,000 by David Ellis CNZM and Fortuna Racing from the Karaka 2022 Book 2 Sale, from the draft of Brighthill Farm, she is owned by Fortuna Court Of Appeal Syndicate (Mgr: John Galvin), an ownership group comprising 47 individuals
“We’ve had a lot of winners here at Taupo over the years and it’s a fantastic track and venue to come to,” said John Galvin, who was present on track for the inaugural Cockies Racing Day, which attracted over 250 farmers. “It was hard to get a carpark when I arrived, which is incredible, but it just goes to show how well the Club has promoted the day and how much local support they get.”
John also congratulated Club President Terry Campbell and his committee and track staff for the irrigation system that has been installed.
“I went onto the track with Terry before the race and it has a magnificent sole of grass, so it’s a really good effort from everyone involved,” he said.
“Well done to Mark and Sam for training this horse so well, as she had had her quirks. She’s a lovely Mare that we bought as a staying type from Book 2 at Karaka, we didn’t pay a lot, and out of a Zabeel mare, so she was great buying. We have a couple of our owners here, John Nixon and Julie Carter, both Fortuna stalwarts, and congratulations to all in her ownership group. I thought she might lack a bit of early speed, which she did and got shuffled back, but the (genuine) tempo of the race helped, and as they turned for home it was like the Red Sea opening up in front of her. Well done to her rider, Masa, who’s had a recent comeback after injury – he judged the tempo of the race perfectly, allowing the horse to find her feet and run home strong”
Brighthill Farm stallion Eminent, a Group Two winner and dual Group One placed son of peerless racehorse and sire Frankel (Galileo) – currently leading the TRC Global Sires Rankings – was trained by Sir Mark Todd and owned by Sir Peter Vela. From the first crop by Eminent, Court Of Appeal is out of a mare that won three times to 2200 metres, in turn from sensational staying mare Katy Keen (Zorro’s Lad), a Group Two and Group Three winner that won 10 times to 2500 metres.
Court Of Appeal is the second winner from Katy O’Beel, following Enright (Power), a three-time winner to 2100 metres.
ZEDWILLDO in action – breaking Maidens – Mornington 6th December – Will Gordon aboard
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Headline News
Shares available in three different horses – two in Victoria, one in NZ
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Fortuna has one runners this weekendAshburton – Sunday
VIVACIOUS resumes in the R75 1200m event – Race 8 @4.12pm and will be ridden by Corey Campbell from an outside barrier draw – not seen on raceday since early November, she has had one trial to prepare for this – Draw makes it difficult but she did win on this track 1400m from a wide draw in October – Very capable on her day but will need luck – No TAB comments od Odds up yet
Very busy week for the Fortuna Team in Victoria next week with Dreamflight racing at Sale on Tuesday, Leaderboard at Sandown on Wednesday, Our Paramour resuming at Kyneton on Thursday and Colour Sergeant having his first race day start in the Fortuna Silks at Terang on Friday – meanwhile here in NZ Court Of Appeal heads to Taupo on Wednesday
Shares available in three different Fortuna horses
In Victoria
Colour Sergeant
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 Friday 28th Feb at Terang
Bred to get a trip, he has got down to just 61 points in the ratings and has jumping potential
Still shares left at $570 per each 1% and NZ$60 pm from 1 March
Click HERE to see him working at Cranbourne this morning
Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be placed directly from the website – place your order ahead of Friday’s race and you will have a winning chance that day
Alabama Express – Camila Lucinda Yearling Filly
This exciting prospect was acquired by us at the recent Inglis Classic Sale in Sydney 9th February
Early Foal and early running type, she should be making her 2yo race debut in the Spring of 2025
By the Young Stallion, ALABAMA EXPRESS who is really making his mark with just two crops racing
This Filly to be trained by Multiple time Champion Trainer Mark Walker at Cranbourne in Victoria
She is to be registered for the Inglis Race Series, carrying Bonuses of several Million Dollars
Click HERE to see her parading at the Inglis Sale with comments from Mark just after we had bought her
Shares available at NZ$1700 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
ALABAMA EXPRESS – CAMILA LUCINDA Yearling Filly
In New Zealand
Savabeel – Lady Tatia Yearling Filly
Acquired by us at The Karaka Book One Sale late January, she is Karaka Millions Series registered and is also eligible to run in the NZ Kiwi for 3yos in 2027
By the multi time Champion Stallion Savabeel who has sired 8 Stakes winners in NZ/Aus in the current season, with a career total of 146 Stakes Winners including 35 Group One winners
An early foal, she presents as an early running 2yo type – is very forward and is already in her 2nd week of being broken in and is clear prospect for the Karaka Million 2yo event in January 2026
To be trained at Matamata by Mark Walker/Sam Bergerson
Shares available at NZ$2200 per each 1% and NZ$50 pm from 1 April
Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be placed directly from the website
The SAVABEEL – LADY TATIA Filly
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Guest Selector – Des Coppins
Here is what Des has for our readers this week
Greetings John and the Fortuna readers.
We’ve all enjoyed some outstanding racing this summer and as we head into the warm, autumn months the outcome looks equally as inviting.
It won’t be long before we are chasing glory in Sydney at their Championships at both Rosehill and Randwick but for the time being our Championship meeting at Ellerslie, the $1m NZ Oaks Raceday at Trentham and some great supporting meetings including a big day at Ellerslie on Saturday with the Avondale Cup; Avondale Guineas and the Uncle Remus Stakes are certainly worth sitting up and take notice of.
In particular, the Uncle Remus is likely to be the race holding most of the discussion with stake holders this weekend as this quality field harbours 4 horses with a ticket in the $3m Kiwi Slot race on March 8; Checkmate, Dealt With, Penman and Sethito. Chances are that if we see a big play outside this selected quarter on Saturday, another runner from the Uncle Remus could be snapped up. One that I think may be on the fringe is the Elsdon Park owned three year old, Tardelli. He’s a striking individual and his racing hasn’t been far off the pace this summer with strong placings in the Levin Classic and at Tauranga behind two highly respected types in Savaglee and Penman.
He was a $A360,000 yearling purchase and has the pedigree ( by I Am Invincible – Pierro Moss) to suggest he has stallion potential. More good work on the track is essential for an eventual commercial stud role but with Michael McNab on board again it would come as no surprise if Tardelli made a strong claim for victory on Saturday with a view to the slot race.
Another couple of horses I have my eye on this weekend includes Who Rox The House, a tragedy beaten as my bet of the day at Ellerslie last time who runs on Sunday at Pukekohe in race 5 and Trav in race 4 at Otaki.
Trav may find the 2100m short of his best but Raymond Connors is undoubtedly using this race as a stepping stone to the Auckland Cup on Champions Day. As most of you know I’m still licking my wounds after backing him at 30 to one in the Wellington Cup only to see him miss the start by a conservative 10 lengths and be beaten by less than 4 in 4th place. He’s currently $18 in the big one at Ellerslie. That’s pretty tempting!
Finally we did well last week with the highlight from the three What You Wish For giving us $8 on the morning of the races at Matamata.
My subscription for the next three months ( March, April and May) is $240 and for Fortuna followers I’ll include all racing for this month as a bonus should you wish to immediately come on board.
ZEDWILLDO in action – breaking Maidens – Mornington 6th December – Will Gordon aboard
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Headline News
Fortuna Owners Day 9th February a big success – with close to 100 attendees
Fortuna acquires lovely Alabama Express Filly at Inglis Classic Sale
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Fortuna has four runners this week – including a Group Two Contender
New Plymouth – Friday
HAYATE contests the R60 1800 event – Race 7 @ 4pm with Craig Grylls to ride from a mid field barrier – recent form does not make good reading, but up to a suitable trip and back to R60 Grade, she can make amends – TAB says “easier here – she is not out of this” – Showing $10/$3
Matamata – Saturday
MAROKOPA FALLS contests the Group 2 Matamata Breeders Stakes – Race 7 @ 4.02pm with Craig Grylls to ride from barrier 2. A strong debut winner at Trentham in early December and then a solid third placing in a Group 2 event at the same venue two weeks later – has done everything right since, has a beautiful draw, leading rider aboard – meets the Karaka Million winner and hot fave for this here, but can give this a real shake at good odds – – TAB says “gets a favourable alley – challenged by more formidable competitors – can measure up to this company” – Showing $7/$1.80
Flemington – Saturday
DREAMFLIGHT races in the BM 78 event – – Race 1 @ 12.15 Aus time (2.15pm NZT) pm with Shane Foley to ride from barrier 1. Having his second start in the Fortuna silks, he ran a fast finishing fifth at Mornington 22nd Jan 1600m – a full brother to an Epsom Oaks winner and the 2024 Herbert Power Handicap winner, Herman Hesse, he will love this trip but it is a big step up in class for him – some rain is forecast which will suit – look for him to be running on strong at the end – TAB is gloomy saying “Fitter but unlikely to threaten” – Showing $81/$13
Bendigo – Saturday
LEADERBOARD resumes in the Marong Cup over 2200m – Race 8 @ 5.11 Aus time (7.11pm NZT) pm with apprentice Sage Duric (daughter of Vlad) to ride from barrier 8. Has had a perfect preparation with four jumpouts ahead of this and for a 10-year-old he is showing remarkable zip, having won both of his last two jumpouts over 1400m – does prefer sting out of the track and may not get that on Saturday, but his form leading into this event is hard to fault – he is of course preparing for the upcoming jumping season and this is a resuming run on the flat- TAB says “This looks too tough” – No Odds showing yet
Fortuna Owners Day 9th February a big success – with close to 100 attendees
Lovely weather, a big group of attendees, some great horseflesh and convivial hospitality all combined to make a great occasion on our Annual Owners day. Held in mid December in the past, it was postponed to early February this year and this worked very well as the mid December date often clashed with other Christmas functions for many and the new date gave us the opportunity to parade our new Savabeel – Lady Tatia Filly that we had acquired at Karaka late January. So we have decided to stick with this early Feb date for future Owners Days
John and Jessica welcomed their guests and summarised the 2024 year, a year in which we saw the very unfortunate closure of Singapore Racing but also the rising success of the new Cranbourne facility of Te Akau racing, with 7 of the 24 Fortuna winners emanating in Victoria including 3 Stakes Race wins for Bellatrix Star
Click HERE to see the 2024 Fortuna winners montage – this is a Video reel showing the closing stages of each of our 24 wins in 2024
We also presented a couple of Awards on the day, the first one being for the Fortuna client who had the most individual winners for the year and that went to David “Flash” Gordon with 20 wins in what was a tight finish. The second Award was for the “Fortuna Stalwart of The Year” and that went to Ken Reid – well done to you both
We paraded all of the Matamata based horses on the day and all presented in great order, including the new Savabeel Filly, who despite only being a yearling and still not broken in, paraded like an old professional – still 6.5% left in her -click HERE to see full details
The Savabeel – Lady Tatia Filly
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Fortuna Racing acquires Yearling Filly by Alabama Express at Inglis Classic Sale
Early Foal and early running type, she should be making her 2yo race debut in the Spring of 2025
By the Young Stallion, ALABAMA EXPRESS, who is really making his mark with just two crops racing
This Filly will remain in Australia and be trained by Multiple time Champion Trainer Mark Walker of at Cranbourne in Victoria
She is to be registered for the Inglis Race Series, carrying Bonuses of several Million Dollars (see more detail below)
We are taking expressions of interest – shares available down to 1% – NZ$1700 for each 1% share and NZ$60 per month from 1 April 2025 – Click HERE to register interest
Yearling Filly by Alabama Express out of Camila Lucinda
The great news is we made a purchase relatively early on Day One of the Inglis Classic Sale in Sydney today, that being Lot 92 – the Yearling Filly by Alabama Express
Some background – Mark Walker and I had been working together on a list over the last few days before the sal with Mark being over at the sales grounds and me here in New Zealand – we finished up with a shortlist today of five horses, one Colt and four Fillies all of whom had been vetted and passed – the first one on our list was lot 86, a Colt by Stay Inside and he went for well over our budget as we thought may be the case – lot 92 was then the next cab off the rank and I have to tell you that when Mark and I spoke on the phone on sales morning, while we would have been very happy to secure any of the five lots including lot 86, Mark kept reiterating that his number one pick of the five from the day was lot 92 – so anyway as luck would have it we secured her, we did have to stretch and we were on our last bid, but she was knocked down to us for A$100,000 and Mark and I are both over the moon as she is a real quality Filly – Click HERE to see the link to her Sales Page and at this link you will see her pre sale parade where she exhibits a great walk, a key consideration when we are working on our lists
Pedigree – She is by the young Sire, Alabama Express, a Sire Son of Redoutes Choice, and a Group One winning racehorse, whose oldest progeny are now 3yo’s. Alabama Express got his first crop off to a flyer, with (in Australia) 9 of his 18 first crop 2yo’s winning and his winner to starter ratio being the highest of the top 10 first season Sires. On this side of the Tasman he was two starters for two winners including the very talented Alabama Lass, who has continued her very good two year-old form into her three-year-old season, with wins at Group 3 and Group 2 level to win and two Group 1 seconds. So far in his 2ndseason at stud, Alabama Express, in Aus, has sired 18 winners from 56 starters, including the Group One VRC Oaks winner, Treasure The Moment and on this side of the Tasman, he is two winners from five starters.
The dam, Camila Lucinda, is by Lope de Vega, whom we love as a Stallion and who is shaping as a very good broodmare Sire – she won 4 times over sprint trips and has one foal to the races (Perfect Beth, by Grunt) who has won over 1100m as a 2yo.
Physical Type, a 1st Sept foal, she is a filly of above average medium size and is particularly well developed in her hind quarters – she is deep through the girth and impresses as a type who is already well matured and looks as if she will be an early runner – Mark just loved her big bold walk and her early maturity. Click HERE to see her parading just after we bought her with comments from Mark – as you will hear Mark say, he is very impressed with her physical size, her big powerful hindquarters and her lovely walk
Ongoing plans – she will now head to Victoria, where she will agist at our local spelling farm for 4 weeks or so, then get broken in after which she will have her first stable prep at Cranbourne under the watchful eye of Mark and Assistant Trainer, Ben Gleeson. A nice initial target for her in the Spring would be the Inglis Banner down the Flemington Chute over 1100m, a Listed event for A$400k, run on the last Day of the Cup Carnival in Melbourne
Inglis Race Series – this is a real incentive for us – she will be eligible to run in all of these races – see the info below;
And as well as the prize money and the bonuses on offer for the above races, which are obviously won by the elite 2yo’s, there is also the bonus series below which is essentially 50 Maiden races right across all states of Australia run throughout the season with $100,000 bonus to the winner.
INGLIS XTRA BONUS SERIES
$5,000,000 Bonus Series that will see 50 Maidens incentivised with a $100,000 bonus to the winner.
But wait there is more – there is a really interesting bonus called the Inglis Pink bonus and any horse that has a 75% female ownership is eligible for the Pink bonus which is awarded to the first runner home 9in Pink Bonus Races) who is pink bonus qualified – to put that in perspective on Saturday at Randwick, we saw the running of the $2 million Millennium incidentally, won by a horse who was acquired at the Classic sale last year and there was only one Pink bonus qualified runner in the race. She finished about sixth and the bonus, believe it or not was A$400,000 to her connections – even if she’d run last she still would have collected this A$400k because she was the only qualifier – so my plan as we fill this syndicate is for our Male clients take shares in the name of their wife or partner – that way I am reasonably sure that we can get to the 75% female threshold
Financials – She will be fully syndicated for NZ$170k, this includes her purchase price, Australian GST of 10%, Promoters fees, Inglis series fee, insurance to 31st of January 2026 and working capital of over $12,000 – a 10% share is NZ$17000, a 5% share NZ$8,500, 2.5% share is NZ$4,250 and 1% is NZ$1700 with monthly fees starting 1 April 2025 at $60 per month per each 1% share
Shares Filling quickly – register interest at the link HERE or call John direct 021 921 460
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Guest Selector – Des Coppins
Des’ selections for his regular subscribers produced a great result at Te Aroha on Wednesday with You Know, one of two selections in the race, winning at odds of $39 – and that was the 3rd leg of the Quaddie (which paid $10k) and all four winners were in Des’ two selections for each race. Not a bad result for those who boxed the selections for a total outlay of $16
Here is what Des has for our readers this week
Greetings John and followers of Fortuna.
And good luck if you have a share in any of the Fortuna team going around this weekend in NZ or Australia.
A quick recap on last week where all three runners ran in the top 4 and the horse that ran 4th December, was part of the messy start in the last race at Te Rapa and the effort was simply huge! He will keep for sure.
Let’s turn our attention to what should be another stellar race day at Te Rapa.
Here are three to watch over the weekend and keep in mind for the rest of the summer/autumn.
Mosinvader, race 9 at Matamata
His second up run was three or four lengths better than the first run of the season and to finish the final 600 and 400 when finishing third in a quicker time than the super star winner, Orchestral, tells the full story.
There’s no doubt his best form will come when he steps over further than Saturdays 1600m but being reasonably fresh should ensure we get a great sight nonetheless.
Last season he ran second over 2000m in the Waikato Guineas.
What You Wish For, race 8
All his three runs this season have been okay in three black type races when finishing 9th, 8th and 6th. He’s been better than the 5th quickest to the line with the final sectionals in each of these runs over distances no more than 1600m. On Saturday he steps out to 2000m and this will suit this former Waikato Guineas placegetter.
It’s good to see Craig Grylls reunited. He’s had two rides on him for a win and a placing.
Foxglove, race 2
She’s quality make no mistake despite the last lapse at Ellerslie when the money piled on. She didn’t really hit out and the fluency in action wasn’t there. She’s too good to let go. The stable is flying as well we all know and they wouldn’t have missed a beat ensuring she won’t repeat that unexpected Ellerslie run.
Early Foal and early running type, she should be making her 2yo race debut in the Spring of 2025
By the Young Stallion, ALABAMA EXPRESS who is really making his mark with just two crops racing
This Filly to be trained by Multiple tie Champion Trainer Mark Walker of Te Akau Racing Stables at Cranbourne in Victoria
She is to be registered for the Inglis Race Series, carrying Bonuses of several Million Dollars (see more detail below)
We are taking expressions of interest – shares available down to 1% – NZ$1700 for each 1% share and NZ$60 per month from 1 April 2025 – Click HERE to register interest
Yearling Filly by Alabama Express out of Camila Lucinda
The great news is we made a purchase relatively early on Day One of the Inglis Classic Sale in Sydney today, that being Lot 92 – the Yearling Filly by Alabama Express
Some background – Mark Walker and I had been working together on a list over the last few days with Mark being over at the sales grounds and me here in New Zealand – we finished up with a shortlist of five horses on day one, one Colt and four Fillies all of whom had been vetted and passed – the first one on our list was lot 86, a Colt by Stay Inside and he went for well over our budget as we thought may be the case – lot 92 was then the next cab off the rank and I have to tell you that when Mark and I spoke on the phone that morning, while we would have been very happy to secure any of the five lots including lot 86, Mark kept reiterating that his number one pick of the five from the day was lot 92 – so anyway as luck would have it we secured her, we did have to stretch and we were on our last bid, but she was knocked down to us for A$100,000 and Mark and I are both over the moon as she is a real quality Filly – Click HERE to see the link to her Sales Page and at this link you will see her pre sale parade where she exhibits a great walk, a key consideration when we are working on our lists
Pedigree – She is by the young Sire, Alabama Express, a Sire Son of Redoutes Choice, and a Group One winning racehorse, whose oldest progeny are now 3yo’s. Alabama Express got his first crop off to a flyer, with (in Australia) 9 of his 18 first crop 2yo’s winning and his winner to starter ratio being the highest of the top 10 first season Sires. On this side of the Tasman he was two starters for two winners including the very talented Alabama Lass, who has continued her very good two year-old form into her three-year-old season, with wins at Group 3 and Group 2 level to win and two Group 1 seconds. So far in this 2ndseason at stud, Alabama Express, in Aus, has sired 18 winners from 56 starters, including the Group One VRC Oaks winner, Treasure The Moment and on this side of the Tasman, he is two winners from five starters.
The dam, Camila Lucinda, is by Lope de Vega, whom we love as a Stallion and who is shaping as a very good broodmare Sire – she won 4 times over sprint trips and has one foal to the races (Perfect Beth, by Grunt) who has won over 1100m as a 2yo.
Physical Type, a 1st Sept foal, she is a filly of above average medium size and is particularly well developed in her hind quarters – she is deep through the girth and impresses as a type who is already well matured and looks as if she will be an early runner – Mark just loved her big bold walk and her early maturity. Click HERE to see her parading just after we bought her with comments from Mark – as you will hear Mark say, he is very impressed with her physical size, her big powerful hindquarters and her lovely walk
Ongoing plans – she will now head to Victoria, where she will agist at our local spelling farm for 4 weeks or so, then get broken in after which she will have her first stable prep at Cranbourne under the watchful eye of Mark and Assistant Trainer, Ben Gleeson. A nice initial target for her in the Spring would be the Inglis Banner down the Flemington Chute over 1100m, a Listed event for A$400k, run on the last Day of the Cup Carnival in Melbourne
Inglis Race Series – this is a real incentive for us – she will be eligible to run in all of these races – see the info below;
And as well as the prize money and the bonuses on offer for the above races, which are obviously won by the elite 2yo’s, there is also the bonus series below which is essentially 50 Maiden races right across all states of Australia run throughout the season with $100,000 bonus to the winner.
INGLIS XTRA BONUS SERIES
$5,000,000 Bonus Series that will see 50 Maidens incentivised with a $100,000 bonus to the winner.
But wait there is more – there is a really interesting bonus called the Inglis Pink bonus and any horse that has a 75% female ownership is eligible for the Pink bonus which is awarded to the first runner home 9in Pink Bonus Races) who is pink bonus qualified – to put that in perspective on Saturday at Randwick, we saw the running of the $2 million Millennium incidentally, won by a horse who was acquired at the Classic sale last year and there was only one Pink bonus qualified runner in the race. She finished about sixth and the bonus, believe it or not was A$400,000 to her connections – even if she’d run last she still would have collected this A$400k because she was the only qualfier – so my plan as we fill this syndicate is for our Male clients take shares in the name of their wife or partner – that way I am reasonably sure that we can get to the 75% female threshold
Financials – She will be fully syndicated for NZ$170k, this includes her purchase price, Australian GST of 10%, Promoters fees, Inglis series fee, insurance to 31st of January 2026 and working capital of over $12,000 – a 10% share is NZ$17000, a 5% share NZ$8,500, 2.5% share is NZ$4,250 and 1% is NZ$1700 with monthly fees starting 1 April 2025 at $60 per month per each 1% share
Shares Filling quickly – register interest at the link HERE
ZEDWILLDO in action – breaking Maidens – Mornington 6th December – Will Gordon aboard
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Fortuna Annual Owners Day 2025 Date – Sunday 9th February
Venue – “The Gazebo” – Matamata Racecourse
Time – 1pm – 4pm
Our very popular annual event where we celebrate the year’s successes, enjoy the conviviality of each others company and we parade all of the Fortuna horses based at the Matamata Stables
Refreshments served throughout the event
It is important that you register for this event if attending – you can do this by emailing jessica@fortuna-nz.com – please note that if you had registered for the Owners Day in December, it is important that you re-register for the new date – we need this for catering purposes
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Headline News
Fortuna will be active at the Inglis Classic Sale in Sydney 9th – 11th February
NZTR appoints new CEO
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Fortuna has no runners this week – but Leaderboard, Colour Sergeant and Our Paramour go to the jumouts at Cranbourne on Monday and Mitre Peak trials at Avondale Tuesday
Fortuna will be active at the Inglis Classic Sale in Sydney 9th – 11th February
With just one purchase for us from Karaka 2025 (the Savabeel Filly – Lady Tatia Filly we are now setting our sights on the above sale. Mark Walker is attending this sale and has been through the whole catalogue and he and I have put our heads together identifying the individual lots that we are looking at
Mark headed over yesterday to conduct inspections and will be liaising with David Ellis before drawing up a final “buy list” – Fortuna will be buying just one horse at the sale and we are focusing on a type that will be an early runner to be trained at Cranbourne – so we have identified the specific Stallions we are looking at
Our criteria is as follows
From Stallions that throw early runners
Physical characteristics will be an early running two year old type that could also have the scope to develop into a three-year-old
Firm budget in place and we won’t be paying a lot
The Inglis classic sale is famous for throwing up “bargains” and there are many examples, but a very good one is the two year-old Filly, Within The Law. who won the Inglis Two year-old Nursery, a Listed race, at Flemington on Champions Day last November for a A$500,000 stake and two starts later, she won at Randwick in the Inglis 2yo race, also a listed event for A$500,000. She was purchased at this sale last year for just $30,000 by Darby Syndications. If one does one’s “homework” very capable types can be identified and acquired “below the odds” – for example we bought at this sale a couple of years ago a Filly by More Than Ready out of a half sister to the NZ Champion 2yo of her year, Ruud Awakening – she is Mitre Peak, who has won a couple of races in New Zealand from a handful of starts and while she’s been off the scene for a while due to an injury setback, she is now almost ready to resume racing shortly – we paid A$60k for her
Coming back to Within The Law she is eligible to win the A$2m bonus if she can now win the Inglis Milleninum (Listed) and the Inglis Sires (Group One) in the coming weeks – Yearlings bought at this sale are eligible for the Inglis Race Series which has different components – two of those are featured below
Any purchase we make at this Sale is eligible to be nominated to run in any of the events below and the first of these races (The Banner) is held in November 2025 and the second (The Nursery) is held in December 2025
And as well as the prize money and the bonuses on offer for the above races, which are obviously won by the elite 2yo’s, there is also the bonus series below which is essentially 50 Maiden races right across all states of Australia run throughout the season with $100,000 bonus to the winner.
INGLIS XTRA BONUS SERIES
$5,000,000 Bonus Series that will see 50 Maidens incentivised with a $100,000 bonus to the winner.
So the plan that Mark and I have come up with is to buy at the sale keep the horse in Australia to be trained to Cranbourne that saves a Tasman airfare and then target one of those A$100k maiden races and obviously if our purchase was good enough, then to target some of those higher value stakes races as well and note that only horses bought at the Inglis sale are eligible for any of these
I am sure that readers will agree that this is a pretty good plan. We are very targeted in our approach and I’m sure that we can secure a nice two-year-old off our list for not a lot of money. I’m expecting that when we offer our purchase for syndication it could be very popular so what you were able to do at this point as register your interest in being involved this does not present you with any sort of obligation. It just means that by being on the expression of it interest list you get to see the opportunity first to inspect all of the material, the photo, the parade video etc and then make a decision if you wish to proceed – in other words that means you are “1st in the queue” if we do get overrun with inquiry – to register your interest just email me HERE
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NZTR appoints new CEO
NZTR Chair Russell Warwick and newly appointed CEO Matt Ballestey. Photo: Supplied
New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) is pleased to confirm the appointment of Matt Ballesty to the position of CEO, effective 5 March 2025. Ballesty is a highly respected senior executive who has more than 30 years’ experience in high performance leadership as well as strategic commercial development and execution.
“This is a homecoming,” said Ballesty of taking on the new role.“I’ve been passionate about racing for a long time as both an enthusiast and an owner and I can’t wait to get stuck into the hard work of further developing thoroughbred racing in New Zealand.”
Ballesty has a vast commercial career, and although a New Zealand-Australian citizen, has held a number of senior executive roles internationally across Australia, Macau and Canada. Matt has also undertaken studies at the New Zealand Institute of Directors and was a board member with Heart of the City Auckland
NZTR Chair Russell Warwick said Ballesty’s unique skill set makes him ideal to lead the organisation.
“The racing industry is going through a period of significant change and Matt is the perfect candidate to ensure that every person contributing to the industry continues to play a key role in the future,” Warwick said.
“This appointment is about securing the legacy of the racing industry in the long term. We could not be happier to have someone of Matt’s calibre holding the reins at this critical point.”
In addition to his impressive corporate background, Ballesty has also demonstrated his strength in connecting key stakeholders across every part of the businesses he has worked in.
“The success of the racing industry has always been built on the hard work done at a grassroots level by generations of Kiwis,” said Ballesty. “What excites me most is the opportunity to meet the people around the country who contribute to making the racing industry what it is today. Everyone from the breeders, trainers, owners and jockeys, right through to the clubs, play a critical role in creating a vibrant community and sport that continues to excel on the global stage.”
The arrival of Ballesty was also welcomed by Dean Shannon, the Chief Executive for Entain Australia and New Zealand, a key strategic partner for NZTR.
“Matt is a genuinely good human who’s fully committed to ensuring that the racing industry reaches its full potential in New Zealand,” said Shannon. “We can’t wait to see what he brings to the table in the coming years.”
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Guest Selector – Des Coppins
Greetings John and your readers
We’ve unashamedly been spoiled with quality racing in recent weeks and Legends Day at Te Rapa will elevate the excitement yet again. Despite the non appearance of Snazzytavi the Herbie Duke oozes quality and with Derbies, Oaks and Kiwi slot races just around the corner the three year old action also looks intriguing while Telegraph star Grail Seeker will ensure the big BCD sprint has all eyes on it!
Here are 3 horses I’m feeling positive enough to suggest they’ll play a hand in the finish at nice each way odds.
Utopian Wine, race 3
She took on a stronger field last time at Trentham and after getting on heels at the 1600m when the pace slackened she battled on well enough to run midfield but less than three lengths off the winner, Whangaheu, a player in the Herbie Dyke. Utopian Way’s trainer Bill Thurlow is having a good season.
She looked clearly above average when winning two prior to the last start lapse.
Bourbon Proof, race 7
He’s in great nick. He doesn’t know how to run a bad one; has never been further back than 4th and his form is around sheer quality with horses like Damask Rose, Tuxedo, Checkmate and Hinekaha.
He’s a huge chance.
December, race 9
This is a black type horse in waiting. It took a very special galloper to beat December first up for the season and from all accounts he’s trained on well since. His 3 unplaced runs last term in a limited campaign came in group 2 and 3 races. He was never far away in any of these and one really good moment was finishing less 5 lengths from Crocetti from a wide draw in the Cambridge Stud Trophy at Ellerslie.
2yo Filly – Marokopa Falls – wins on debut Trentham 7th December 2024 – Craig Grylls aboard
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Fortuna Annual Owners Day 2025 Date – Sunday 9th February
Venue – “The Gazebo” – Matamata Racecourse
Time – 1pm – 4pm
Our very popular annual event where we celebrate the year’s successes, enjoy the conviviality of each others company and we parade all of the Fortuna horses based at the Matamata Stables
It is important that you register for this event if attending – you can do this by emailing jessica@fortuna-nz.com – please note that if you had registered for the Owners Day in December, it is important that you re-register for the new date – we need this for catering purposes
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Headline News
Fortuna secures a lovely Yearling Filly by Savabeel from Karaka Sale
LEADERBOARD wins 1400m jumpout at Cranbourne
Entain Edition
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Fortuna has one runner this Saturday
New Plymouth – Saturday
INCA BELLE contests the R65 1200 – Race 1 @ 12.40 pm – will be ridden NZ’s current leading rider, Craig Grylls from Barrier 3. Racing in very good form, gets her chance here with a good draw, top rider and track conditions to suit. TAB says “has run well in all races this time in – drawn nicely here – big chance on dry or wet footing” – Showing $5.50 -$1.9o
Fortuna secures a lovely Yearling Filly by Savabeel from Karaka Sale
We were extremely happy to secure this lovely Filly, an early foal, she looks to be an early runner – note we will be parading her at the Owners Day Sunday 9th Feb
About The Savabeel – Lady Tatia Filly
Fortuna Racing, in conjunction with one of the best judges anywhere in the world, David Ellis, secured this Filly for NZ$150,000 on Day One of the NZ Bloodstock Karaka Yearling Sale\
Physical Type
An early foal (11th of September 2023), she is a good medium size, has a lovely relaxed athletic walk and ticked all of the boxes of our inspection team of David Ellis, Mark Walker, Reece Trumper and Marcus Corban
By Savabeel, the veteran Sire of close to 1000 winners, including 149 Stakes Winners and 33 Group One winners and a nine time Champion Stallion – and out of the winning racemare Lady Tatia (Duke of Marmalade) who won twice in Australia and who has had two foals to the races, including the three time winner and Group 3placed Belle Of The Ball
“John, this Filly ticks all the boxes – an early foal, she is beautifully proportioned, has a great walk and looks like she will run early – I know you had to extend a bit to secure her, but I am rapt that Sam and I can get to train her for the Fortuna Team – we trained the full sister, Belle Of The Ball and she was a very good galloper – we have had so much success over the years with the progeny of Savabeel and I’m sure that can continue with this beautiful Filly”
David Ellis says
“John, this Filly was great buying at this price – we paid $300k for her full sister Belle Of The Ball at the 2020 Sale – at inspections she presented as a real quality Filly, with a deep girth, a lovely walk and plenty of scope to grow and develop.”
John says
“We have been always been admirers of the progeny of Savabeel – however given his Champion stallion status over many years and the Fortuna philosophy of “buying to budget”, it has not been easy to secure a nice Savabeel Filly in recent years – however we did secure one at this sale – we did have to push out the boat a little bit on our budget in order to get her, but we are happy to have done so with this lovely Filly”
Karaka Millions Race Series
She will be registered for the Karaka Millions series and will therefore be eligible to race in the two year-old event for NZ$1m in January 2026 and NZ$1.5m three year-old event in January 2027 – she will also be eligible for the $4m NZ Kiwi Slot Race as a three year-old in 2027 – and a reminder that a daughter of Savabeel, Damask Rose. won this year’s edition of the Karaka Million 3yo and is now one of the favourites for the inaugural NZ Kiwi
10% share $22,000, 5% share $11,000, 2.5% share $5,500, 1% share $2200 – with ongoing costs from 1 April 2025 @$50 per month per each 1% share
Initial Capital includes Purchase Price, NZ GST, Promoters fees, Insurance to 31 Jan 2026, Magic Millions Series Fee and working capital of almost $11k
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
Orders can be made from the link HERE – contact John by email or call/text 021 921 460 if you seek more information
============================================================= LEADERBOARD wins 1400m jumpout at Cranbourne
Former Wellington Cup winner Leaderboard showed that, despite being 10 years old, he still has plenty of zip when chasing down a tearaway leader to win his 1400 meter jump out at Cranbourne last Monday – Leaderboard had a successful debut jumping season in Victoria in 2024 winning twice at Warrnambool and never being out of the prize money in any of his jumping races – he is on a path to have another tilt at the big jumping events in Victoria in 2025 – still showing ability on the flat, he will resume in the Colac Gold Cup over 2000 m Friday, the 7th of February, this all part of a lead up into the famed Warrnambool Carnival which commences 30th of April
“Leaderboard” – Warrnambool Steeples Victory – 23rd June 2024 – Aaron Kuru aboard
See below the latest Entain Edition – the “By The Numbers” section at the bottom show a continuing upward trend in wagering turnover and active customers
Welcome to January’s Entain Edition
Welcome back to the Entain Edition – a bumper edition after two months since our last newsletter.
As Managing Director of Entain New Zealand, it’s been an extraordinary summer of racing that has put an exclamation point for me on just how special the sport is in this country.
Over December and January, racecourses across New Zealand came alive with the energy of passionate fans, thrilling finishes, and unforgettable moments. From the festive crowds at Omakau and Kumara to the excitement of Boxing Day and New Year’s Day at Ellerslie, the summer circuit has shown us once again why racing holds such a treasured place in Kiwi culture.
It’s been a season of growth and success, with incredible fields, increased turnover, vibrant on-course atmospheres, and the joy of seeing an industry that has risen from its knees and burst into a full-blown gallop. You can read more below about the enhancements we’re making to the on-course experience.
Following an incredible 2025 edition of the TAB Karaka Millions and the spotlight of the racing world on Ellerslie with World Pool in operation, the spotlight has shifted to Karaka, where the NZ Bloodstock National Yearling Sale is in full swing. Karaka is a true showcase of New Zealand’s excellence in breeding. Buyers from across the globe are drawn to these sales, captivated by the quality and potential of our horses and underpinned by the skill and dedication of New Zealand’s breeders.
It’s an event that celebrates the heritage and future of our industry, reinforcing New Zealand’s place on the international racing stage. There truly is no place on earth like the Karaka sales and I’ve enjoyed every second of my time out here this week.
As we celebrate the success of the summer and the ongoing momentum at Karaka, there’s plenty more to look forward to. With marquee events still on the horizon, upcoming race days promise even more opportunities to connect fans and participants with the magic of racing.
At Entain, we’re committed to continuing our support throughout 2025 and beyond – and can’t wait to see as many of you out on course as possible.
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.
Cameron Rodger,
Managing Director – New Zealand
Entain Australia and New Zealand
World Pool at TAB Karaka Millions
Ellerslie was in full focus for the racing world on Saturday night with World Pool in operation for the last three races on the card – the TAB Karaka Millions 2YO & 3YO races, as well as the Group 1 Sistema Railway.
In all, $18.5m was wagered on the win, place, quinella, trifecta, treble and double pools, with TAB customers getting the benefits of deeper pools to bet into thanks to World Pool.
While the rain certainly tested the 10,000 racing fans in attendance, what it didn’t test was the Ellerslie track. It played superbly throughout the evening.
The first six runners across the line in the Group 1 were less than two lengths apart, which speaks the fairness of the track. A massive congratulations to Ellerslie track manager Jason Fulford and his team for presenting an outstanding racing surface.
Summer racing & the on-course experience
We know Kiwis racing fans – both the die-hard and the once-a-year followers – love the summer racing circuit, and this holiday period saw some massive crowds at the likes of Omakau, Tauherenikau and Kumara.
As a snapshot of the success and importance of Christmas and New Year racing, turnover across 11 feature thoroughbred meetings during this time – including Boxing Day and New Year’s Day at Ellerslie, the two Group 1 feature meetings at Trentham and the Kumara Gold Nuggets meeting – was up 22% on last year, and increases in active customers across almost all of these meetings too.
One challenge we find at these huge meetings held in locations away from urban areas is where an influx of people to a small location can put pressure on infrastructure like wireless and mobile data networks. A lot of people are happy to bet through terminals on-course, but for those Kiwis who do want to enjoy all the features of the TAB App, it’s important to make that accessible, and to attract casual punters to sign up for the TAB App.
With that in mind, across the festive period, the Racing Services team trialled Starlink-driven Wi-Fi services for customers at venues with limited mobile networks in the South Island. Thousands of customers at the popular Omakau, Roxburgh, Cromwell and Kumara meetings logged into our TAB Free Wi-Fi networks. It’s an encouraging initiative that Entain will look to expand across 2025 and into the new racing season.
The field enters the home straight at the Central Otago Trotting Club meeting at Omakau on 2 January.
Racing Her Way
An initiative you will be seeing a lot more of in the coming months is Racing Her Way. The first Racing Her Way event was held in Riccarton on TAB Mile Day in November, and there was also a presence at this week’s NZ Bloodstock Karaka 2025 sales.
Racing Her Way is designed to enhance and celebrate the experience of women in the thrilling world of horse racing. Whether you’re a lifelong racing fan, curious about the sport, or simply looking to enjoy the excitement of race day, this program invites you to immerse yourself in the style, passion, and community that make racing truly special.
Guests enjoying the inaugural Racing Her Way event at Riccarton on TAB Mile Day 2024.
Seven days of big action for TAB Racing Club
TAB Racing Club continues to be popular with TAB racing customers, with more than 10,000 joining up to enjoy the thrills of racing ownership without paying a cent. The Club has already hosted many balloted events at race meetings and had its first winner from this year’s 2-year-old crop when In Haste was a dominant winner at Matamata last Wednesday.
The team also went shopping at the New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sales this week, securing seven lots from the Book 1 catalogue, including a Per Incanto-Saint Katarina colt (pictured below) for $200,000 from the the Little Avondale Stud draft.
Some of the most viral sporting events in recent years have been held this summer, and Entain’s brands have been a key part of them both. Both TAB and betcha were visible at the TAB Chasing The Fox golf event, held in December. Some of our crew donned the caddie overalls and got inside the ropes for the ultimate view.
We also launched the betcha Bash Zone at the T20 Black Clash 2025 in Christchurch earlier this month, with several members of Team Rugby and Team Cricket going close to landing a six in the Bash Zone.
These two events are going from strength to strength, and we’re proud to be associated with them both.
News in brief:
The Racing Industry Amendment Bill was introduced by the New Zealand Government in December to establish a ‘legislative net’ for racing and sports betting. Entain welcomes the introduction of this legislation that will reduce spending with offshore operators and ensure more money flows back into New Zealand racing and sport. You can follow the progress of the bill at parliament.nz.
With the field for The NZB Kiwi already looking incredibly strong, Entain New Zealand was thrilled to secure the Group 1 performer Evaporate for the 1500-metre feature at Ellerslie on 8 March. The Kiwi-bred 3-year-old placed in the 2024 Caulfield Guineas and lined up in the Cox Plate later that month, and his trainers – Will, Ben and JD Hayes – are as excited as we are to have Evaporate take his place in the inaugural running of The NZB Kiwi. Read more at entaingroup.co.nz.
Entain team profile
Name: Matt Smith Role: Senior Manager – Communications Time with Entain: 20 months
Racing interests:
My passion for racing began at the Omakau trots in the late 1990s, and expanded at the Captain Cook Hotel in Dunedin during my (very) social time as a university student before weaving it into my work as a journalist and Trackside producer. After working in politics and the public service, I returned to working in the racing industry in late 2021.
I’ve had very small shares in probably 25 or more horses – mainly pacers and trotters – over the last eight years across a number of syndicates, and have been lucky enough to enjoy a bit of success along the way, particularly through joining a syndicate with Woodlands Stud. Need You Now won a Group 1 Harness Jewels in 2021, and a Group 2 the following year, while Kahlua Flybye was very brave behind the brilliant Millwood Nike in several Group races. Currently, Terra Sancta (four wins) is providing some fun for our Own The Moment Syndicate, which is made up of 60 people all over the country.
What excites you about the strategic partnership?
The past 18 months have already shown how much can be achieved with the expertise that Entain brings to the New Zealand racing and sports industry. In 2024 alone, we launched a new betting platform, refreshed Trackside and the TAB brand, and launched betcha. As someone who is passionate about the racing industry and has ownership interests, I appreciate how important it is for all sectors of the industry to see the benefits of the partnership and we now have these key anchors in place for future success.
The race event I’m most looking forward to?
NZ Cup Week is hard to beat, but I fully intend to get to a few more grass harness meetings this year, having been lucky enough to get to Westport, Reefton and Cromwell this past summer.
========================================== Guest Selector – Des Coppins
Greetings John and the Fortuna Team
Having been in Auckland for a week and looking at quality racing at Ellerslie and budding stars at Karaka it’s fair to say the racing business at this time of year doesn’t get much better.
We’ve had a glut of great racing in January but as we welcome in a new month the
excitement doesn’t taper off as we look to upcoming group one racing at Te Rapa in a week.
But first we re focus on Ellerslie and while the meeting may not match the talent on KM night there’s plenty to like about the programme as horses use Saturday as a stepping stone to upcoming riches at Ellerslie and Trentham in March or even Te Rapa in just over 7 days.
Here are my three to follow at Ellerslie with a view to bigger assignments.
Oceana Dream, race 8
Following a super trials run this three year old never let his army of supporters down when winning on debut.
It’s a step up on Saturday again but he’s capable of remaining unbeaten and if he gets the job done I’m picking he will be set for the Derby in March. Saturday will tell the story.
Tycoon Prince, either Te Rapa race 7 or Ellerslie race 2
He looks a great bet.
He failed to run out the tough Levin Classic but I’m prepared to overlook that and instead the run prior when third at Te Rapa behind two quality three year olds in Damask Rose and Sought After.
Kelly Coe, race 7 Ellerslie
She was terrific winning first up at Te Rapa and while only 8th in the group one Thorndon to finish less than one length from the winner was a good enough benchmark to suggest she’s ready to win again.
She looked a treat going down to the start at Trentham and she should continue to improve throughout the season.
Good punting.
My racing email service is bringing home some great results eg Waverley on Wednesday both the best bet and value bet gave us a multi of 16 to one.
For one month the cost is $100 and for 3 months $240.
Simply email me dcoppins@xtra.co.nz
and thank you to recent sign ons from the Fortuna brigade.
We have been always been admirers of the progeny of Savabeel – however given his Champion stallion status over many years and the Fortuna philosophy of “buying to budget” it has not been easy to secure a nice Savabeel Filly in recent years – today however we did secure one – we did have to push out the boat a little bit on our budget in order to get her, but we are happy to have done so
Physical Type – an early foal (11th of September 2023), she is a good medium size, has a lovely relaxed athletic walk and ticked all of the boxes of our inspection team of David Ellis, Mark Walker, Reece Trumper and Marcus Corban
Pedigree – By Savabeel, the veteran Sire of close to 1000 winners, including 143 Stakes Winners and 33 Group One winners and a nine time Champion Stallion – and out of the winning racemare Lady Tatia (Duke of Marmalade) who won twice in Australia and who has had two foals to the races, including the three time winner and Group 3 placed Belle Of The Ball
Mark Walker says “John, this Filly ticks all the boxes – an early foal, she is beautifully proportioned, has a great walk and looks like she will run early – I know you had to extend a bit to secure her, but I am rapt that Sam and I can get to train her for the Fortuna Team – we trained the full sister, Belle Of The Ball and she was a very good galloper – we have had so much success over the years with the progeny of Savabeel and I’m sure that can continue with this beautiful Filly”
Karaka Millions Race Series – she will be registered for the Karaka Millions series and will therefore be eligible to race in the two year-old event for NZ$1m in January 2026 and the NZ $1.5m three year-old event in January 2027 – she will also be eligible for the $4m NZ Kiwi Slot Race as a three year-old in 2027 – and a reminder that a daughter of Savabeel, Damask Rose. won this year’s edition of the Karaka Million 3yo and is now one of the favourites for the inaugural NZ Kiwi
Full Syndication paperwork is still to be finalised but figures are as follows – 10% share $22,000, 5% $11,000, 2.5% $5,500, 1% $2200 with ongong costs from 1 April of $50 per month per each 1% share. These initial costs include purchase price, New Zealand GST, promoters fees, Karaka Millions fees, insurance to 31st of January 2026 and working capital of almost $11k
We are now taking expressions of interest and you can do that by resonding HERE advising us the percentage you are interested in – and in expressing interest you will be guaranteed a share – we look forward to hearing from you
Fortuna Annual Owners Day 2024 Date – Sunday 9th February
Venue – “The Gazebo” – Matamata Racecourse
Time – 1pm – 4pm
Our very popular annual event where we celebrate the year’s successes, enjoy the conviviality of each others company and we parade all of the Fortuna horses based at the Matamata Stables
It is important that you register for this event if attending – you can do this by emailing jessica@fortuna-nz.com – please note that if you had registered for the Owners Day in December, it is important that you re-register for the new date – we need this for catering purposes
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Headline News
DREAMFLIGHT impresses on his Fortuna debut
Karaka Yearling Sales kick off on Sunday
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Fortuna has four runners this Saturday and Monday
Riccarton – Saturday
ANGELS WINGS contests the R65 1200 down the Riccarton Chute – Race 4 @ 1.34 pm and will be ridden by the very experienced French jockey, Marc Lerner. Resumed at New Plymouth 27/12 for a solid 3rd placing. Doesn’t win out of turn but is a good each way chance here. TAB says “Zipped home into 3rd last start – meets a stronger field here – Goes close” – Showing $5/1.95
HAYATE races in the R65 1800 – Race 10 @5.20pm with Ace Lawson-Carroll to ride from a wide barrier – resumed at Otaki 1400m off a long break but was the victim of a poorly judged ride and finished back in field. 1800 will suit but will need some luck in the running – should be running home strongly.– Showing $18/5.50
Tauranga – Monday
SAILING AWAY races in the R60 2100m event – Race 4 @ 1.57pm with Wiremu Pinn to ride from a mid field barrier – has disappointed last two starts in the South Island but back to Rating 60 grade here, he gets a chance to redeem – watch the tote – no odds showing yet
COURT OF APPEAL contests the R65 1600 – Race 9 @ 4.52 pm and will be ridden by Wiremu Pinn from a good barrier – is resuming after last racing at Wanganui 23rd Nov – a natural staying type, she can run the 1600 well in a fresh up state – can feature in the finish – no odds showing yet
The Fortuna Racing six year-old Dreamflight, an impressive winner of his jump out at Cranbourne on Monday 13th of January, produced a solid resuming effort when rattling home from the back of the field for a fast finishing fifth placing over 1600m on the tight Mornington track. Dreamflight, a son of the worlds’s No 1 Stallion, Frankel and a full brother to the 2024 Epsom Oaks winner, Soul Sister, had been acquired by his previous owners for A$500,000 after winning twice in France, had failed to win in Sydney for them and so was offered for sale in September 2024 on the Inglis digital site and was picked up by Fortuna Racing for just A$30,000 and transferred to trainer Mark Walker at the Te Akau Racing Stables at Cranbourne in Victoria where a change of training methods and a more relaxed open environment has seen Dreamflight go from strength to strength and he seems to have a promising future. Fortuna Racing’s John Galvin, watching the Mornington race from his home in Hamilton, New Zealand was impressed with what he saw “that was a pretty good effort” he said after the race “we knew we had an in form galloper, but figured that the 1600m race was going to be too short for him as he is a natural staiying type and also he probably wouldn’t be suited by the tight turning Mornington track, however he relaxed nicely at the back of the field and his rider, Shane Foley, had him traveling beautifully and when asked for an effort at the top of the street, he rattled home strongly – it was very pleasing to see”
With that run under his belt Dreamflight will now step up to a more suitable 2000 meter trip and that will be on the big roomy Flemington track Saturday 15th of February.
DREAMFLIGHT (By Frankel out of Dream Peace)
Of further interest is that we have a very similar type in Colour Sergeant who is about a month behind Dreamflight in his preparation, coming along nicely – like Dreamflight Colour Sergeant is European bred (by Kingman, rated the 8th best Stallion in the world) and a natural staying type, has won 4 races in New South Wales, but like Dreamflight, had fallen out of form at his previous stable and so his ownership group put him up for sale on Inglis Digital where we picked him up for just A$15k after Mark and I had identified him as being an ideal type for the Cranbourne set up and the Victorian staying races
On arriving at Cranbourne, Mark and Ben got to work on him, the first thing they did was take his shoes off and he has been worked without shoes since, his hooves have now grown out and are beautifully healthy, he has done a lot of work on the treadmill and he just loves the sand dune track at Cranbourne, which provides a deep sand going and an uphill gallop, just perfect for these staying types.
Click HERE to see Colour Sergeant on Wednesday with comments from Ben – as you will see he is a lovely type, his coat is great, he moves well and is due to have his first jumpout at Cranbourne this Monday 27th Jan. Still some shares left at just $510 for each 1% and $60 per month from 1 Feb – don’t miss him – down to a Rating of just 61, he will be v ery competitive when he gets to the races in about four weeks time!!!
Shares can be ordered from the link HERE and full details about him can be seen at this link
============================================ Karaka Yearling Sales kick off on Sunday
Yes it’s that time of the year again where the New Zealand Bloodstock yearling sale at Karaka gets to show the cream of the crop with three days of selling from Book one and a further two days of Book 2 and a total of 1088 lots being presented
The Te Akau team of David Ellis, Mark Walker, Reece Trumper and Marcus Corban conducted physical inspections from Tuesday to Thursday of this week and have drawn up a reasonably long shortlist of potential candidates to be vetted ahead of the sale – as always Fortuna will be searching for “value” and buying to budget and so out of that list, Mark and David have identified a number of candidates that they think will make the Fortuna budget. I will be present at the sale and look forward to catching up with any of our Fortuna clients who are attending also – soon after we secure any lots we will put out our usual “breaking news” update. The sale will be streamed live from the New Zealand Blood Stock website and as always it makes fascinating watching.
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Shares For Sale
Read all about our very latest Magic Millions Gold Coast Sale acquisition – the Russian Revolution Filly, below
Shares can be acquired direct from our website link HERE
About The Russian Revolution-Artistic Lass Filly
Physical Type
Beautiful Yearling Filly by a proven Stallion in Russian Revolution and out of the five time winning racemare, Artistic Lass, who paraded well with a great walk and exhibited a very even temperament, she is a September foal and looks to be an “early runner.”
Yearling Filly by Russian Revolution out of Artistic Lass
Pedigree
By the proven Stallion Russian Revolution – the leading first season stallion in the 2020/21 season and the Sire of 175 winner, including 11 Stakes winners and out of the five time winning racemare Artistic Lass, who is a half sister to the Group Two and Group 3 winners, Sistine Angel and Sistine Demon – this is a strong pedigree page
“I love it when we can buy the progeny of proven Australian Stallions within our budget. Russian Revolution was an exceptional racehorse, winning seven times on the track and has already left a number of very good race horses including the Group One Randwick Guineas winner, Communist“
Mark Walker says
“John, Lot 170 from the Magic Millions sale is a beautiful Russian Revolution Filly out of the five time winning Myboycharlie racemare, Artistic Lass – she is a lovely walking Filly, very athletic. I think this Filly will be an early runner and make a really nice two-year-old with the scope to train on to be a good three-year-old – there is some really good two-year-old form in the family – I thought she was particularly good buying at A$100,000 Australian and we are excited to have her joining our stable”
David Ellis says
“John, this Russian Revolution Filly caught our attention during inspections, she is an early foal (8th September) of good medium size, very strong, has a lovely free flowing walk, vetted perfectly and is exceptional value at A$100k – once again you have managed to secure a quality Filly within your budget range”
She is now registered for the Magic Millions Race Series – this is a Series now worth over A$15m – here are the races she will be eligible to be nominated for at the Magic Million’s Race Days
January 2026 – the A$3m Magic Millions Classic for 2yo’s 1200m
May 2026 – the A$1m National 2yo Classic 1000m
January 2027 – the A$3m Magic Millions Guineas
January 2027 – the A$3m 1100m 3yo Sprint
Subsequent years she will be eligible for any of the A$1m races for older horses on the Magic Millions Carnival Day
Note that only horses that have been acquired at a MM Sale and have been enrolled for the Race Series are eligible to be nominated for these races
10% share $18,600, 5% share $9,300, 2.5% share $4,650, 1% share $1860 – with ongoing costs from 1 April 2025 @$50 per month per each 1% share
Initial Capital includes Purchase Price, NZ GST on entry to NZ, Promoters fees, Insurance to 31 Jan 2026, Magic Millions Race Series Fee, Airfreight to NZ and working capital of over $13k
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
Shares can be acquired direct from our website link HERE ====================================================
Guest Selector – Des Coppins
Good morning John and Fortuna followers
While the curtain falls on a very busy Trentham summer the top racing continues for the next 3 months beginning with the big dance at Ellerslie on Saturday.
A quick wind up from last Saturday.
At 30 to one we were dead stiff with the Cup hopeful Trav who botched the start terribly, losing a conservative 12 lengths before finishing 4th, less than 3 lengths from Wolfgang. Take nothing away from the winner but Trav was clearly unlucky.
Trav was to be ridden by Lisa Allpress who sadly had to be replaced after snapping her leg in three places following a major incident with her mount Hickory Stick at the barrier. I’ve kept contact with her through husband Karl and readers can be assured she went home from the Wellington hospital on Tuesday and she’s as comfortable as can be under the circumstances with the watchful eye of her family and medics.
The racing industry certainly wishes her all the best in her recovery.
Let’s focus on Ellerslie.
What a day/night it’ll be.
My three horses to watch out for are:
Mary Shan in Westbury Classic:
Her run the other day at Ellerslie was huge.
She looked be travelling sweetly into the straight but hit a road block and had to be steered off runners a couple of times by rider Michael McNab to find clear air. By the time she found daylight the race was over.
She’s clearly back to the form that perched her right up with the best fillies last term and she will jump from barrier one and McNab will not waste the opportunity of pinging her out of the gates and riding her positively to take full advantage of the draw.
Two others to follow at Ellerslie are in the same race, the Railway.
I’m keen on the two fillies, Captured By Love and Alabama Lass.
They get a huge pull in the weights and both not only have a decent turn of foot at either the start or at the end of their races but both represent the highest class as their records show.
Both fillies have freshened well since last racing and they caught the eye in separate trial wins at Matamata a week or so ago.
I can’t separate them and I’ll be backing them both.
Good punting!
Ps if you’d like to be included in my individual email tipping service for the next 3 months the cost is $240 ( gst inclusive) and as a bonus you’ll have this Saturday ex gratis along with the rest of January. Simply email me dcoppins@xtra.co.nz and join in the fun.
The Fortuna Racing six year-old Dreamflight, an impressive winner of his jump out at Cranbourne on Monday 13th of January, produced a solid resuming effort when rattling home from the back of the field for a fast finishing fifth placing over 1600m on the tight Mornington track. Dreamflight, a son of the worlds’s No 1 Stallion, Frankel and a full brother to the 2024 Epsom Oaks winner, Soul Sister, had been acquired by his previous owners for A$500,000 after winning twice in France, had failed to win in Sydney for them and so was offered for sale in September 2024 on the Inglis digital site and was picked up by Fortuna Racing for just A$30,000 and transferred to trainer Mark Walker at the Te Akau Racing Stables at Cranbourne in Victoria where a change of training methods and a more relaxed open environment has seen Dreamflight go from strength to strength and he seems to have a promising future.
Fortuna Racing’s John Galvin, watching the Mornington race from his home in Hamilton, New Zealand was impressed with what he saw “that was a pretty good effort” he said after the race “we knew we had an in form galloper, but figured that the 1600m race was going to be too short for him as he is a natural staiyingtype and also he probably wouldn’t be suited by the tight turning Mornington track, however he relaxed nicely at the back of the field and his rider, Shane Foley, had him travelling beautifully and when asked for an effort at the top of the street, he rattled home strongly – it was very pleasing to see”
With that run under his belt Dreamflight will now step up to a more suitable 2000 meter trip and that will be on the big roomy Flemington track Saturday 15th of February.
