Court Of Appeal – 2nd career victory – Taupo 26th February 2025 – Masa Hashizume aboard
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Headline News
Yearling Colt by Nicconi – half brother to Bellatrix Star shines at the breakers
Newly appointed Entain General Manager, Sam Moncur, present his first Entain Edition
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Fortuna has one runner this weekend
Tauranga – Sunday
INCA BELLE runs in the R65 1200m event – Race 8 @4.57 pm with stable apprentice Hayley Hassman, claiming 4kgs, to ride from Barrier 10 – racing consistently well this prep without winning, her record at Tauranga is very good – form cannot be faulted, gets good weight relief here, but draw is tricky and will need some luck in the running. TAB says “Super course form – must respect in this event” –NoOdds Showing Yet
Yearling Colt by Nicconi – half brother to Bellatrix Star shines at the breakers
This lovely Colt is turning a few heads at Marty Lacey’s breaking in property in Victoria – a “flashy” chestnut with distinctive markings, he is handling his breaking in process with aplomb – bred to be an “early” runner, he is wasting no time in his early education – Click HERE to see some great footage of him at the breakers on Wednesday with comments from Marty Lacey
Just 14% of the shares left in this Colt – Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be made from this link
Here are some key points about this opportunity below – should not be missed – shares filling steadily but still available
Strong, powerful, well developed Colt who will run early
Potential Stallion at Stud prospect
By a well proven Stallion in Nicconi, the sire of the Multiple Group One and Everest winner, Nature Strip – Nicconi in his long career at Stud has thrown 70% winners to runners including 29 Stakes winners
A half brother to the brilliant Bellatrix Star, the winner of 5 races including 4 Stakes races, three of those in succession in Melbourne, – with two wins at Group 2 level, one at Group 3 and one Listed as well as running 2nd to Switzerland in the Group One Coolmore Stakes at Flemington
Will be prepared for racing by Mark Walker out of the Te Akau Racing Cranbourne facility in Victoria
His Breeders have retained 25% and so this Colt will race in a Partnership with our Fortuna Syndicate holding 75% of the horse and the Breeders 25%
Despite the partnership arrangement, he will race in the Fortuna Silks and Fortuna (John Galvin) will be the Racing Manager with full powers over the partnership as per the Syndicate Agreement
He will be nominated for the very lucrative Inglis Race Series (including the Pink Bonus) – Click HERE to read full details of that Series
10% share $23,000, 5% share $11,500, 2.5% share $5,750, 1% share $2,300 – with ongoing costs from 1 May 2025 @$50 per month per each 1% share
Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be made from this link
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Newly appointed Entain General Manager, Sam Moncur, present his first Entain Edition
Welcome to March’s Entain Edition
I’m pleased to introduce this edition to you, having taken on the role of Chief Financial Officer of Entain Australia and New Zealand and Managing Director – New Zealand earlier this month, following on from almost two years as Entain ANZ’s Deputy Chief Financial Officer.
If we haven’t met previously, here is a little more information about me. Prior to our Strategic Partnering arrangement with TAB NZ taking effect in June 2023, I was lucky enough to spend 10 years in the TAB NZ business in financial and operational roles, covering the breadth of our business in New Zealand.
Along the way, I have had oversight and leadership of the retail and broadcasting operations of the business, so it’s timely that this update includes a section on the big improvements we’re making to our retail and on-course network over the coming months.
In this update, there’s news around our Trackside Media slot runner in this year’s Kia Quokka in Perth, a reflection on the outstanding Barfoot & Thompson Champions Day at Ellerslie, a look ahead at the Night Of Champions, and a team profile from Trackside’s Executive Producer, Scott Freeman.
Please share or forward this newsletter to anyone in the industry who you think might like to read this. They can sign up to receive the Entain Edition directly by contacting communications@entaingroup.co.nz. If you no longer wish to receive this newsletter, please contact the same address.
Thanks for reading.
Sam Moncur,
Managing Director – New Zealand
Entain Australia and New Zealand
Crocetti confirmed for The KIA Quokka
Earlier today, we shared the exciting news that Crocetti will run in the Trackside NZ/Perth Racing slot in the A$5m slot race, The KIA Quokka.
Crocetti was the winner of this year’s Sport Nation NZ Champion Sprint Series, so it was a great outcome when owner and co-breeder Daniel Nakhle and the rest of the Crocetti team confirmed they were keen to take up our invitation.
He’s delivered on the New Zealand stage, so look out Perth on April 26!
Read more at entaingroup.co.nz/news and take in the Crocetti hype reel below with exactly one month to go until the big race.
New and improved TAB experience is arriving
It was a milestone day for our New Zealand retail customers on Monday last week (17 March), with the first of many installations of our brand-new technology taking place at Manukau City TAB.
For the combined Retail, Product, Design, NZ Operations and Development teams, this is a big moment. A world-class wagering experience for more than 450 TAB venues and pubs and clubs in New Zealand with brand-new technology is set to be rolled out over the coming months, and we’re already more than a week into the installations.
The new terminals deliver an outstanding experience for TAB customers across all channels, and customers are now able to seamlessly move from betting through the TAB App and tab.co.nz, to their visits to our retail outlets.
Our racing and sports fans know the fun of celebrating a win with their friends, whether that’s in a TAB retail store or a pub or club with TAB facilities, and now everything a TAB customer could do through the app or tab.co.nz is now possible in retail.
Find out more at entaingroup.co.nz/news, and for a look at the past and the future, check out the below.
Champions Day & The NZB Kiwi hit huge heights
The atmosphere at Barfoot & Thompson Champions Day earlier this month was electric, and that has been reflected in some outstanding figures, thanks to the hard work from our team at Entain Australia & New Zealand alongside Auckland Thoroughbred Racing, NZ Thoroughbred Racing and New Zealand Bloodstock.
The 10-race card recorded turnover of $7.98m, the second highest total ever in New Zealand, and up 77% on the corresponding Auckland Cup meeting last year.
Importantly, almost 55,000 customers placed a bet on the meeting through TAB and betcha – the highest ever achieved for a New Zealand race meeting – and The NZB Kiwi’s high profile through media and marketing activity attracted more than 37,000 active customers on the new slot race – the most for a thoroughbred race in New Zealand in the past 12 months.
The first running of The NZB Kiwi had turnover of $1.38m, instantly placing it third on the list of the biggest New Zealand races by turnover in the past 12 months, while all four Group 1 races recorded increases in both active customers and turnover. The racing industry and our New Zealand customers have embraced the concept of Champions Day incredibly quickly. The opportunity for growth into 2026 and beyond is very exciting.
Capture the essence of the day through this great highlight video from the Trackside team.
The Race by betcha breaking new ground
The Night of Champions continues to grow as a key event on the harness racing calendar, and this year, there’s a step into new territory for our betting brand, betcha. The $1m slot pacing race, The Race by betcha, will be the first venture into major race sponsorship for the new betting brand on the block. The race, and the whole race night, has captured the attention of a similar demographic to our betcha customers, so there is a natural alignment between The Race and betcha.
The race is shaping up brilliantly, with Miracle Mile winner Don Hugo, multiple Group 1 winner Merlin, this summer’s star Republican Party, and outstanding mare Duchess Megxit all confirmed runners so far, with the promise of some other top-drawer pacers to come. Find out more about the night, including the TAB Trot, on the Night of Champions website, with The Race by betcha futures market currently available at betcha.co.nz.
Racing Her Way shines on Champions Day
Our third Racing Her Way event on Barfoot & Thompson Champions Day was a resounding success, delighting guests with a unique and memorable experience. Held on Tier 1 of the Champagne Lawn at Ellerslie, the event featured a stunning long-lunch setup that provided the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of glamour, excitement, and racing insights.
The ever-charismatic Laura McGoldrick returned to host the event, joined by an impressive lineup of special guests, including Courtney Tairi, Storm Purvis, and Lulu Wilcox, among others.
Guests enjoyed an exclusive viewing of the Ned Prix de Fashion finalists, showcasing the very best of race day style and sophistication and also picked up some betting tips to add to the fun of the day. They also headed out to the starting gates, getting up close to the action as horses and jockeys thundered out of the gates.
In-form jockey Sam Spratt made a special appearance, sharing her racing insights and even tipping a winner on the card, much to the delight of the attendees.
The Racing Her Way movement continues to grow in popularity, providing opportunities to celebrate and empower women in the racing industry. It’s about bringing more people into the racing world, creating unforgettable moments, and showcasing the magic of the sport from a fresh perspective.
News in brief:
The 2025 edition of the Industry Excellence Awards, powered by Entain, will soon be open for nominations. Stay tuned in early April for more information around how to nominate an emerging leader or rising star of the racing industry under the age of 40. You can also keep an eye on updates at entaingroup.co.nz/industryawards.
Entain team profile
Name: Scott Freeman Role: Executive Producer, Trackside Time with Entain: 22 months
Racing interests:
I’m a punting tragic and TAB Lifer due to a misspent youth and my family influences. Grandma had a TAB, Mum had a TAB, and many close family friends have worked in the game. I spent many hours as a young ’un putting up sheets, results, red-stamping scratchings, tidying up losing tickets and ashtrays – the good old days.
What excites you about the strategic partnership?
Trackside’s transformation under the strategic partnership has been remarkable and rapid. Our quality of coverage across shows, live broadcasts, digital and short form is again world-class with Trackside’s Champions Day campaign the most complete I have been involved. To be able to build on that across the platforms we have with the talent we have is truly exciting for us and the industry.
The race event I’m most looking forward to?
As my long-suffering wife says: “there’s always another big race to work on”. I can’t wait for Night of Champions, The Championships and the Quokka but if pressed for just one, a horse I own an eyelash in, Poukawa will step up to a mile in the Rating 65 at Whanganui on April 5, so I’m looking forward to that.
Entain Australia & New Zealand, Asteron Centre | Level 10 – 55 Featherston St,
Pipitea, Wellington, 6011, NZ
Guest Selector – Des Coppins
Here is what Des has for our readers this week
Greetings John and the Fortuna Team
We’re in for another big weekend of racing spearheaded by the group one Sires Produce Stakes Day at Trentham. The Trentham venue has had a busy old time of it in recent months but has stood up remarkably well and with Awapuni resting for another month or so the very important two year old race is a big welcome to the capital.We’ve witnessed some excellent two year old racing this season and rest assured the excitement will continue on Saturday.
Landlock, Courtesy Ford Sires Produce
My pick for the race is the Cody Cole trained Landlock who has continued to improve with each outing. The last run was an absolute beauty and he may well have been dead stiff not to claim the odds on pop, Return to Conquer.
While the tangerine of Te Akau have dominated all the major two year old races this season at Matamata and Ellerslie Landlock could crack their safe on the back of his experience at Trentham ( 2 outings) and the last start massive run and add another big race win for the young but very promising trainer, Cody Cole.
Who Knows, race 4 Trentham
She was lightly tried in her second preparation which resumed with a win over 1600m at Woodville and maintained consistency with 5 top 4 placings in as many starts. She’s had two trials and she’s ready to go!
In saying this whatever she does over the 1600m she will definitely improve upon and please mark her down as one to follow right through the autumn and winter. There’s a decent race in her this year.
Love Symbol, race 3 Te Aroha
She may have lacked maturity last year but that didn’t stop her running a couple of handy races from her 7 starts including two placings on the Te Aroha track.
She cruised along outside the leader the other week in a trial at Ellerslie. She was in a deadheat for first but was clearly going the better than the other horse all the way up the straight.
She’s forward and ready to go close.
Melbourne Cup Tour 2025.
If the Melbourne Cup is on your bucket list we would love to have you join Lisa Allpress and myself for this years event. It’ll be by 34th and it’s so good to have Lisa join me as Co tour leader for her first with the tour company, Sporting Tours.
Check out the flyer and feel free to call me on 021 448052 or the freephone number as per the flyer.
Des Coppins
021 448 052
Here is Des Melbourne Cup flyer below – we have had several of the Fortuna clients participate in Des’ Melbourne Cup Tour in recent years (and some have been on multiple occasions) and all report a great experience. Lisa Allpress as Des’ co-host this year should prove a welcome addition to the experience
Court Of Appeal – 2nd career victory – Taupo 26th February 2025 – Masa Hashizume aboard
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Headline News
Stallion making opportunity – Yearling Colt by Nicconi – half brother to Bellatrix Star
Busy week coming up with four trialists at Taupo and one at Ricarton on Tuesday and Leaderboard to have his first Steeples start for the new season on Friday
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Fortuna has two runners Friday/Saturday
Terang – Friday
COLOUR SERGEANT has his first start in the Fortuna Silks at Terang in the the BM 58 1406m event – Race 7 @4.50 pm Aus time (6.50 pm NZT) with stable apprentice Sage Duric, claiming 3kgs, to ride from Barrier 6 – this seven year old by Kingman has had four career wins and was acquired by us as a tried horse from an Inglis Digital Sale in November as a future jumping prospect – had a strong jumpout at Cranbourne on Monday for a 3rd placing – is ready for this but would appreciate some rain – TAB says “Has won previously first up – capable of a bold return” – Showing $7/$2.10
Riccarton – Saturday
VIVACIOUS contests the R75 1200m down the Riccarton Chute – Race 9 @ 4.10 with Courtney Barnes to ride from Barrier 15 on a track rated Heavy 10 Thursday afternoon – very capable but heavy track is a query – TAB says “Has won and placed when second up – wide draw but can cope – must include” – Showing $16/$4.80
Stallion making opportunity – Yearling Colt by Nicconi – half brother to Bellatrix Star
There is quite a bit of excitement in the Fortuna camp with our new acquisition, the Nicconi – Alanana’s Party Colt, the half brother to Bellatrix Star – excitement because he is a Colt, is going to be an early runner and because he is so forward, he went straight from the Sales grounds to our breaker, Matt Lacey and has just completed his first week there – HERE is some footage of him at the breakers
Excitement also because he has a 4yo full brother in Hong Kong, Country Dancer, who has won two races up there – Click HERE to see footage of him winning his 1st race there. This is a 1000 meter race and he is the horse in the red and black colours out the back in the early running – as you will see he has an amazing turn of foot closing stages – very reminiscent of the way that Bellatrix Star has been able to finish her races off – and Click HEREto see win #2
Here are some key points about this opportunity below – should not be missed – shares filling steadily but still available
Strong, powerful, well developed Colt who will run early
Potential Stallion at Stud prospect
By a well proven Stallion in Nicconi, the sire of the Multiple Group One and Everest winner, Nature Strip – Nicconi in his long career at Stud has thrown 70% winners to runners including 29 Stakes winners
A half brother to the brilliant Bellatrix Star, the winner of 5 races including 4 Stakes races, three of those in succession in Melbourne, – with two wins at Group 2 level, one at Group 3 and one Listed as well as running 2nd to Switzerland in the Group One Coolmore Stakes at Flemington
Will be prepared for racing by Mark Walker out of the Te Akau Racing Cranbourne facility in Victoria
His Breeders have retained 25% and so this Colt will race in a Partnership with our Fortuna Syndicate holding 75% of the horse and the Breeders 25%
Despite the partnership arrangement, he will race in the Fortuna Silks and Fortuna (John Galvin) will be the Racing Manager with full powers over the partnership as per the Syndicate Agreement
He will be nominated for the very lucrative Inglis Race Series (including the Pink Bonus) – Click HERE to read full details of that Series
10% share $23,000, 5% share $11,500, 2.5% share $5,750, 1% share $2,300 – with ongoing costs from 1 May 2025 @$50 per month per each 1% share
Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be made from this link
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Busy week coming up with four trialists at Taupo on Tuesday, one at Riccarton the same day and Leaderboard to have his first Steeples start for the new season on Friday
Two two year olds, Emma Twigg (El Roca) and Silky As (Written Tycoon) will have trials outing at Taupo and will be joined by Mitre Peak having her 2nd trial this prep and Malborough Bay, having his first and at Riccarton Queen Consort trials after resuming from a spell
Across the Tasman the veteran 10yo and former Wellington Cup winner, Leaderboard, resumes over the big fences contesting the Open Steeples at Warrnambool over 3850 metres – twice a winner at this venue in 2024, he was a strong seven length winner at the Cranbourne Jumps trials last week – he has a big season on jumps racing planned and his connections keenly await his return to the jumping discipline
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Guest Selector – Des Coppins
Here is what Des has for our readers this week
Greetings John and Fortuna fans.
The hot racing continues at Trentham on Saturday with a great spread from horses from both islands and I roughly counted 57 from stables north of Taupo that’ll be represented. It’s hardly surprising bearing in mind there’s almost $2m in stakes on offer and the first million dollar Oaks as a real drawcard.
The St Leger has attracted the best field for years as well. To have this seasons three big Cup winners, Mehzebeen ( NZ Cup); Wolfgang ( Wellington Cup) and Trav ( Auckland Cup) engaged tells the story and it also begs the question why, oh why, doesn’t such a time honoured retain black type status?
Track conditions will be interesting. The on and off rain on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday did the track the world of good and a 22 degree sunny day on Friday will assist in absorbing the moisture and while it was a soft 7 on Thursday afternoon chances are it’ll be hovering around the 5 penetrometer read I’m picking come start time on Saturday.
Here are three horses worthy of due consideration.
This Time Girl, the NZ Oaks.
It will come as a complete surprise if glamour filly Leica Lucy is beaten but something has to run second and quinella hunters could do a lot worse than banking on This Time Girl to fill that position.
She was big at New Plymouth and even bigger at Ellerslie last time in the Sunline when running second after changing ground in the straight to gain clear air and rattling home.
December, Lightning Handicap.
He’s won 4 races in 10 starts but with an ounce of luck it could’ve been 6 or 7 wins.
He was huge last time at Matamata and the finishing burst he has will be a big plus in a swift 1200m over the wide open spaces at Trentham. The cut in the ground is also a plus for him. He’s up in class but he’s equal to the task. The fact that he’s drawn wide might play into his hands as the last race on the programme. He will get back but I’m expecting to see a strong finish again.
My Lips Are Sealed , Cuddle Stakes.
She was terrific winning the inaugural Phar Lap Trophy ( ex Anniversary) on the track over the Cup meeting and her performance behind Legarto and company at Matamata the other week was huge and in fact she finished the race the quickest and almost a half second quicker than Legarto over the last 200m. She adores cut in the ground. I like her a lot.
Good punting!
Court Of Appeal – 2nd career victory – Taupo 26th February 2025 – Masa Hashizume aboard
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Headline News
Champions Day – huge success on all fronts
Stallion making opportunity – the half brother to Bellatrix Star – and his Hong Kong based full brother, Country Dancer, has now won twice there
Leaderboard wins jumping trial at Cranbourne in dominant fashion
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Fortuna has one runner this weekend
Yarra Valley – Sunday
WEST INDIES will contest the BM 64 1950m event – Race 6 @3.45 pm Aus time (5.45 pm NZT) with stable apprentice Sage Duric, claiming 3kgs, to ride from Barrier 9 – acquired by us 10 days before the VRC Derby in November, this beautifully bred son of Fastnet Rock finished 13th in that event, but was then immediately spelled and has shown significant physical development since – he has had three jumpouts to prepare for this resuming run and has won his last two jumpouts in impressive fashion – will go close. Showing $7/$2.25
Sell out crowd, great racing, perfect weather, huge increase in betting turnover, significant Australian presence with horses, riders and attendees – this day marked another milestone in the current renaissance of NZ Racing, attracting significant interest from Mainstream media and significant International exposure as well.
I see the TAB figures every week and the most striking was the increase in the number of people making a bet – on a typical Saturday Premier meeting the number is usually around 30,000, but Champions Day saw over 54,000 place a bet, with 37,000 placing a bet on the NZ Kiwi, making it the most popular betting race in the past 12 months – and our good friends at Te Akau Racing made it a day to remember winning the Group One 2yo race with Return To Conquer and then taking out the NZ Kiwi with Damask Rose, who won the race holding the Te Akau Slot
Below is the summary from the TAB
Champions Day, with four Group Ones, the Group 2 Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup and two Group 3s, returned impressive figures across the board. In all, 54,500 customers placed a bet through TAB or betcha on the meeting, the highest ever number of active customers through digital channels on a New Zealand meeting since these records began. As a comparison to last year’s Auckland Cup meeting (which also included the Bonecrusher NZ Stakes and the Sistema Stakes), 66% more customers engaged with this year’s meeting than 2024.
Turnover reached almost $8 million for the 10-race card, topping out at $7.98m. This was a 77% increase on last year’s total of $4.5m and installs the meeting as the top NZ meeting by turnover in the past 12 months, and the second highest NZ meeting ever.
Turning to the four Group Ones, all four races recorded increases in both active customers and turnover. The Trackside NZ Derby and Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes recorded 7% and 8% increases in turnover respectively, while the HKJC World Pool NZ Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes performed well after being moved from the 30 March meeting last year with a 38% increase in turnover. The Sistema Stakes performed particularly strongly, with turnover of $693k, up 74% on 2024 with 11 starters this year compared to eight last year.
There is no direct comparison for The NZB Kiwi, but the race’s high profile through media and marketing activity attracted more than 37,000 active customers – the most for a thoroughbred race in New Zealand in the past 12 months. Turnover of $1.38m places The NZB Kiwi at 3rd on the top 10 NZ races by turnover since this time last year.
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Stallion making opportunity – the half brother to Bellatrix Star – and his Hong Kong based full brother, Country Dancer has now won twice there
There is quite a bit of excitement in the Fortuna camp with our new acquisition, the Nicconi – Alanana’s Party Colt, the half brother to Bellatrix Star – excitement because he is a Colt, is going to be an early runner and because he is so forward, he went straight from the Sales grounds to our breaker, Matt Lacey and has just completed his first week there – HERE is some footage of him at the breakers
Excitement also because he has a 4yo full brother in Hong Kong, Country Dancer, who has won two races up there – Click HERE to see footage of him winning his 1st race there. This is a 1000 meter race and he is the horse in the red and black colours out the back in the early running – as you will see he has an amazing turn of foot closing stages – very reminiscent of the way that Bellatrix Star has been able to finish her races off – and Click HEREto see win #2
Here are some key points about this opportunity below – should not be missed – shares filling steadily but still available
Strong, powerful, well developed Colt who will run early
Potential Stallion at Stud prospect
By a well proven Stallion in Nicconi, the sire of the Multiple Group One and Everest winner, Nature Strip – Nicconi in his long career at Stud has thrown 70% winners to runners including 29 Stakes winners
A half brother to the brilliant Bellatrix Star, the winner of 5 races including 4 Stakes races, three of those in succession in Melbourne, – with two wins at Group 2 level, one at Group 3 and one Listed as well as running 2nd to Switzerland in the Group One Coolmore Stakes at Flemington
Will be prepared for racing by Mark Walker out of the Te Akau Racing Cranbourne facility in Victoria
His Breeders have retained 25% and so this Colt will race in a Partnership with our Fortuna Syndicate holding 75% of the horse and the Breeders 25%
Despite the partnership arrangement, he will race in the Fortuna Silks and Fortuna (John Galvin) will be the Racing Manager with full powers over the partnership as per the Syndicate Agreement
He will be nominated for the very lucrative Inglis Race Series (including the Pink Bonus) – Click HERE to read full details of that Series
10% share $23,000, 5% share $11,500, 2.5% share $5,750, 1% share $2,300 – with ongoing costs from 1 May 2025 @$50 per month per each 1% share
Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be made from this link
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Leaderboard wins jumping trial at Cranbourne in dominant fashion
The veteran 10 year old Leaderboard showed his rivals a clean pair of heels over 2800m at the Cranbourne Jumping trials Thursday 13th February – Click HERE to see the trial replays (he is in Heat 7) – note you may need to login to racing.com to see this, but logging is is free
The 2023 Wellington Cup winner had an impressive debut jumping season in Victoria in 2024, never out of the top 3 in seven races over the jumps and winning twice. He has been very well prepared for this jumping season with 4 jumpouts and two flat races and will now have his first race for the new jumping season over the big fences at Warrnambool 28th March, then heads to Pakenham 13th April before heading back to Warrnambool for their iconic 3 day carnival (29th April – 1st May) where he will contest the Brierly Steeples on Day One and back up into the Grand National Steeples on Day 3
Leaderboard – winning at Warrnambool – June 2024
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Guest Selector – Des Coppins
Des certainly made the day for those of our readers who latched onto his Auckland Cup tip, Trav, last week with Trav paying $21 on the tote and delivering some juicy multiples as well
Here is what Des has for our readers this week and note also that he provides some preliminary info on what will be his 36th Melbourne Cup Tour this year
Greetings John and your many readers.
I say this because I reckon a half dozen came up to me at Ellerslie on Saturday and paid a decent compliment on highlighting Trav as the one to beat on last week’s big day at Ellerslie in the column last week.
My subscribers to my racing tipping service gained plenty, too, on a day where quality of racing matched the tips. Hoping for more of the same in the weeks ahead spearheaded by Oaks Day on Saturday week and the Sires Produce day at Trentham at the end of the month.
Before giving you three to follow this weekend allow me to announce that while our Sporting Tours Melbourne Tour details will be released shortly I can confirm that champion jockey Lisa Allpress will be my co tour leader this year.
The Sporting Tours group is finalising the final costings which should be available within the next couple of weeks but if you’d like to be contacted with these details send me an email dcoppins@xtra.co.nz and our experienced tour operators will contact you in the first instance ( simultaneously with our regular clients).
I’m looking forward to my 36th Melbourne Cup tour with wonderful people but naturally excited to have Lisa as part of the team. She’s a true champion both on and off the track.
Three to follow:
Still Bangon race 8 Tauranga
On paper she has looked disappointing this season but I reckon after a freshen up following 4 average runs last spring her two runs lately haven’t been that bad!
She was checked out of the barrier and was off stride here at the end of January but was less than three lengths from the winner and from an awkward draw at Matamata on March 1 she raced three wide at times without cover.
Let’s not forget that she was third in black type company behind subsequent first and second runners in the Oaks; won the Eulogy and ran second in the group two Sir Patrick Hogan. She’s more than capable of turning her form around on Saturday.
Tanganyika, race 3 Tauranga
When running 7th at Ellerslie at the end of the month it marked the first time a top 5 position wasn’t registered.
An average draw may have cost him a length or two and the fact he only finished 2.7 lengths from the winner is proof his ultra consistent record should continue in a race like this where the blinkers are added.
Jolted, race 6, Tauranga
This horse is another who has been floating under the radar with handy but not winning runs lately but I feel this is the sort of race she can spring into action with a bit more purpose.
She’s arguably racing on her favourite track where the record reads a first, second and a third in just three starts. She ran an unlucky third here about this time last year.
Stepping up from 1600 last time to 2100m will suit. I don’t think she will be ridden as close to the pace as she did last time. Clearly she races best when allowed time to find her feet.
Finally, anyone wishing to subscribe to my email tipping service for a special rate of just $150 gst inclusive let me know by email before 8pm Friday and I’ll pass on details. dcoppins@xtra.co.nz
The $150 will include all this month and April and May with race by race tips and the Best Bet and Value Bet for each meeting. That’s a total of 62 meetings!!
Good punting!
Des Coppins 021 448 052 ==========================================================
Court Of Appeal – 2nd career victory – Taupo 26th February 2025 – Masa Hashizume aboard
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Headline News
Champions Day is upon us at Ellerslie on Saturday – and Fortuna Racing has a Group One runner on the day
Stallion making opportunity – the half brother to Bellatrix Star
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Fortuna has one runner this weekend
Ellerslie – Saturday
MAROKOPA FALLS will contest the Group One Sistema Stakes – Race 4 @2.13pm with Liam Riordan to ride from Barrier 4 – a strong debut winner at Trentham December 7, she then ran third three weeks later at the same venue in the Group 2 Wakefield Stakes after overracing, she was the freshened and resumed at Matamata in the Matamata Breeders Stakes February 15 where she ran 4th. On review she was probably a gallop short at Matamata, has taken significant improvement and blinkers go on – meets stern opposition here, but can make her presence felt from her good draw and at good odds. TAB says “Not too bad so far-well drawn yet again – place or first four at best” – Showing $15/$3.80
Champions Day is upon us at Ellerslie on Saturday – and Fortuna Racing has a Group One runner
New Zealand Racing has a long and storied history with many ups and downs over the decades and it’s no secret that the first two decades of the 21st century saw a significant decline in New Zealand Racing, however in the past two years, with the adoption of many of the recommendations from the Messara report and the takeover of the TAB’s betting operations by Entain in 2023, have seen a dramatic turnaround with prize money virtually doubling in that time and a host of new races, revamped programs and other incentives. One of those new races is the NZ Kiwi, a “slot” race run over 1500m for 3yos. With this race set to be run at Ellerslie, Auckland Thoroughbred Racing saw the opportunity to have one major raceday in March grouping together historic races like the NZ Derby, the Auckland Cup, the Bonecrusher Stakes, the Sistema Stakes and the NZ Thoroughbred Breeders Stakes, supported by a strong undercard and the new NZ Kiwi as a centrepiece and renamed the day as “Champions Day”.
Unquestionably this approach has paid off with the race day being a “sell out” and significant publicity and attention from non racing media. The day has also caught the attention of racing authorities across the Tasman with the announcement last week from Racing New South Wales that the winner of the NZ Kiwi would have automatic entry into the rich Golden Eagle run at Rosehill on 1st November
So a wonderful day of racing awaits us and Fortuna Racing will be a participant with our 2yo Filly, Marokopa Falls (Hellbent)to contest the Group One Sistema Stakes on the day – a huge thrill for us and of course, the small army of Syndicate Members (57 individuals), many of whom will be on track. Marokopa Falls was purchased at the Magic Millions National Yearling Sale in June of 2024 for just A$57,500 and came to hand very quickly, winning on debut at Trentham in early December. She is “off the radar” to some extent for this event with media and punter focus on other runners, but as we have reminded her connections, Melody Belle was off the radar as well when she won the 2017 Karaka Million on this track at odds of $33!!! – so I am sure readers will join with John and Jessica in wishing the Marokopa Falls Syndicate Members all the very best on this historic raceday
Here below is a story from the NZ Racing Desk about Champions Day
NZ Racing Desk
The wait is finally over, New Zealand’s biggest ever raceday is here and our country’s best racehorses will assemble at Ellerslie on Saturday for the inaugural $8.2 million Champions Day.
Announced early in 2024, Champions Day will bring together seven Group races, and that’s not including the inaugural running of the NZB Kiwi (1500m), where slot holders across New Zealand, Australia and even further afield have selected their three-year-old to tackle the $3.5 million showpiece.
With the final runner confirmed on Monday, the field is set for the Kiwi, with the Australian raiders Evaporate, Public Attention and Perfumist sure to be a tough trio to beat. Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott have a remarkable four runners in Checkmate, Hankee Alpha, Sethito and Sought After, while the fairytale story out of the South Island is Pivotal Ten, who will be ridden and trained by Canterbury horsewoman Samantha Wynne.
Completing the Kiwi line-up is Marsh pair Penman and Ardalio, Karaka Millions 3YO (1600m) winner Damask Rose, First Dance, Domain Ace and late edition Zormella, who replaced stablemate Dealt With after he was ruled out just days out from the feature.
The NZB Kiwi is a big drawcard on Champions Day, but a number of time-honoured features hold pride of place at Ellerslie, arguably none more so than the $1.25 million Gr.1 Trackside New Zealand Derby (2400m).
Mongolian Khan, Silent Achiever, Jimmy Choux and Orchestral are just a small handful of the top-class victors in the Derby, and this year, we have a wide-open contest with all to play for, with Willydoit, Thedoctoroflove, Tuxedo and Oceana Dream all congested atop of the market.
The Group One action will kick-off earlier in the meeting with the stars of the future, the juveniles, chasing top honours in the $550,000 Gr.1 Sistema Stakes (1200m). Te Akau’s glamour colt Return To Conquer will face his stiffest challenge yet after an unbeaten start to his career, with stablemates He Who Dares and the Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m) heroine La Dorada both key rivals.
Promising filly To Cap It All was just short of La Dorada in the Matamata Breeders’ last start, while Lucy In The Sky shouldn’t be underestimated after a dazzling debut in February.
From the babies to the mares, the $600,000 Gr.1 HKJC World Pool New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) has attracted a field matching its elite status. Legarto, the country’s glamour mare is the one to beat, while Belclare will be the one to catch on speed in pursuit of her third-straight title.
The $1 million Gr.1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) may be lighter on numbers, but it is certainly not on quality, with a showdown not to be missed between the airborne El Vencedor, a resurgent Orchestral and the ultra-consistent La Crique.
The stayers get their turn in the spotlight in the $600,000 Gr.2 Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup (3200m), with Son Of Sun, Blue Sky At Night and About Time among those bringing top form into the race.
Rounding off an unbelievable card of stakes racing will be the Gr.3 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Sunline Vase (2100m) and the Gr.3 Haunui Farm Kings Plate (1200m), the latter featuring Gr.1 Railway (1200m) winner Crocetti and the flying filly Alabama Lass.
Paul Wilcox and the team at Auckland Thoroughbred Racing have pulled out all the stops to bring a sensational day to life, with Group One-level hospitality, entertainment and, of course, the 20th running of the prestigious Ned Prix de Fashion.
Those who have attended the Karaka Millions know a thing or two about the Ellerslie after-parties, and ATR are taking it up a level, with world-renowned UK DJ Jax Jones locked in to host the Birdcage Bash. This event will close out a fantastic season for The Grand Tour Racing Festival, who will stage the Enclosure and round off in the Birdcage for one last dance in 2024/25.
Families are warmly welcomed to enjoy the spoils and thrills of Champions Day, with free games and activities for the kids throughout the afternoon.
A stacked line-up of racing, entertainment and (hopefully) the Auckland sun, be a part of the redefining of New Zealand’s industry with the inaugural Champions Day, this Saturday, March 8th at Ellerslie!
Race Schedule – Champions Day
Race 1: $120,000 Entain/NZB Insurance Pearl Series Final (1400m) – 12:15pm
Readers should note by the way, that the TAB have an offer for the NZ Kiwi on Saturday – the offer is “back any runner for a win and if it runs top 3, you go in the draw to win one of five $20,000 prizes”
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Stallion making opportunity – the half brother to Bellatrix Star
As readers will be aware, the Fortuna Racing 3yo Filly, BELLATRIX STAR, had a sensational 2024 calendar year winning the Group 2 Eclipse Stakes at Pukekohe on Jan 1st, then winning three black type races in a row in Melbourne in the spring and running a brave 2nd in the Group One Coolmore Stakes. A freak accident in early January saw her sidelined for an indefinite period, but she is staging a strong recovery to date. At the recent Inglis Premier Sale, her yearling half bother by Nicconi was being offered and after going through the normal inspection process by the Te Akau Team of David Ellis, Mark Walker and Marcus Corban and passing that process with flying colours, we decided to see if we could secure him and (on our last bid) we managed to do so for A$200,000
This Colt is an outstanding physical specimen and with his pedigree page, he is a definite “stallion making” opportunity – stallion making is never easy of course as there is huge competition, but if Group Races in Australia can be won by 2yo Colts in particular, the pay offs can be huge. And while the high priced million dollar plus lots, boasting glamour pedigrees, attract initial attention, the very best 2yo Colts don’t necessarily fit that profile. The current “glamour” Colt in Sydney, Rivellino (Too Darn Hot), who is unbeaten from three starts, including a victory in the Group One Millennium at Randwick, was not a graduate of the Magic Millions or Inglis Easter Sale, but of the lower key Inglis Classic Sale, where he was acquired for just A$180k in 2024. He now has several Studs circling with offers that you can bet your last dollar on will be A$20m plus. So our Nicconi – Alana’s Party Colt is “in the zone” and most importantly, he looks to be an “early runner” which is a vital factor in the Stallion making game, particularly in Australia with their emphasis on “speed” stallions – read all about him below – shares now available on the Fortuna website
David Ellis and Fortuna Racing struck early on day one of the Inglis Premier sale in Melbourne Sunday 2nd March, securing lot 20, the half brother to the four time Stakes winner Bellatrix Star(Star Witness)
Consigned by Newhaven Park, the son of Nicconi was knocked down to the Ellis/Fortuna pairing for A$200,000. Ellis and Fortuna had combined to buy Bellatrix Star at the 2023 NZ Bloodstock Karaka Book One sale for NZ$80,000 and she subsequently became a star performer, winning at Group 2 level in New Zealand as a two year-old, then picking up three Stakes races in a row in Melbourne during the spring of 2024 and running a gallant 2nd behind Switzerland in the Group One Coolmore Stakes on Derby day.
Te Akau trainer Mark Walker who had conducted inspections at the sales complex on behalf of Ellis and Fortuna, described the Nicconi – Alana’s Party offering as “a big strong colt, he is very forward and will run early”
Set to be trained by Mark Walker out of Te Akau Racing’s Cranbourne stable, this Colt is now offered for public syndication
Shares available down to 1% – NZ$2,300 for each 1% share and NZ$50 per month from 1 May 2025 – Click HERE to order a share
Some background here – we had spotted this Colt in the catalogue pre sale, but when Mark Walker went to the sales ground before the sale to conduct his inspections, he called John once he had inspected the horses on his list and had this to say “John, the half brother to Bellatrix Star is a genuinely beautiful Colt, big and strong and will run early” – you should note that we always approach these inspections very methodically and the fact that he was a half brother to Bellatrix Star was of course of interest to us, but at the same time whatever the pedigree is, we leave emotion out of it and focus on our core criteria which is the physical attributes and he certainly ticked all the boxes
In fact this Colt is so forward that Mark has decided to send him straight to the breakers from the Sales Arena – this will mean that we can get him broken in early, then give him the usual two weeks stable prep and then give him a really decent break before bringing him back for a further preparation ahead of trialing in the spring. He is a Colt of course and it’s always challenging with Colts to keep them intact, but he definitely has a Stallion’s pedigree and if he was able to win Group races for us, particularly as a two-year-old, he would have immense value as a Stallion prospect.
Fortuna’s Trainer, Mark Walker is extremely positive about this Colt – Click HERE to listen to his verbal description
Te Akau Principal David Ellis has this to say about this Colt
“Lovely Two Year old type pedigree page, with the dam out of an Exceed and Excel mare, strong forward looking Colt, lovely walk, deep girth, looks to be an early running type”
In a remarkable show of confidence, the Breeders/Vendors of this Coltexpressed a desire to retain 25% of him as a racehorse – a request we were happy to accede to
We know with Bellatrix Star of course, that she was able to run early, winning the very first 2yo race of the season in Australasia (1st Saturday in September) and a nice early black type race for this Colt would be the (Listed) Inglis Banner 1100m down the Flemington chute for A$400k on the last day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival – and of course the Group One Blue Diamond run at Caulfield in February is famous as a “stallion making” race
Key Points are:
Strong, powerful, well developed Colt who will run early
Potential Stallion at Stud prospect
By a well proven Stallion in Nicconi, the sire of the Multiple Group One and Everest winner, Nature Strip – Nicconi in his long career at Stud has thrown 70% winners to runners including 29 Stakes winners
A half brother to the brilliant Bellatrix Star, the winner of 5 races including 4 Stakes races, three of those in succession in Melbourne, – with two wins at Group 2 level, one at Group 3 and one Listed as well as running 2nd to Switzerland in the Group One Coolmore Stakes at Flemington
Will be prepared for racing by Mark Walker out of the Te Akau Racing Cranbourne facility in Victoria
His Breeders have retained 25% and so this Colt will race in a Partnership with our Fortuna Syndicate holding 75% of the horse and the Breeders 25%
Despite the partnership arrangement, he will race in the Fortuna Silks and Fortuna (John Galvin) will be the Racing Manager with full powers over the partnership as per the Syndicate Agreement
He will be nominated for the very lucrative Inglis Race Series (including the Pink Bonus) – Click HERE to read full details of that Series
10% share $23,000, 5% share $11,500, 2.5% share $5,750, 1% share $2,300 – with ongoing costs from 1 May 2025 @$50 per month per each 1% share
Initial Capital includes Purchase Price, Australian GST of 10%, Promoters fees, Inglis series fee, Insurance to 31st January 2026 and working capital of over $12,000
Monthly ongoing costs from 1st April 2025 – from that date ongoing costs are – 10% share $500 per month – 5% share $250 per month – 2.5% share $125 per month – 1% share $50 per month.
Monthly ongoing costs can alternatively be paid up to 12 months in advance as an option for subscribers by Bank Payment or Credit Card
Purchase a share in NICCONI – ALANA’S PARTY COLT today from the link HERE or contact us for more information
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Shares still available in Colour Sergeant (7.5% left – will have his first start for us Tuesday 11th March at Benalla
European Bred 4 time winning 7yo by Kingman
Acquired by us for a song in late November from his former NSW Stable
Been revitalised with an innovative training programme at Cranbourne in the hands of Mark Walker
Has had two solid jumpouts to prepare for his Fortuna debut this coming Tuesday 11th March at Benalla
Bred to get a trip, he has got down to just 63 points in the ratings and has jumping potential
Still shares left at $630 per each 1% and NZ$60 pm from 1 April
Click HERE to read full details on the Fortuna website and orders can be placed directly from the website – place your order ahead of Tuesday’s race and you will have a winning chance that day
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Guest Selector – Des Coppins
Des has been in great form of late with his tips to his regular subscribers – at Waverley yesterday he tipped out seven winners (two selections per race) from the eight race program
Here is what Des has for our readers this week
Greetings John and Fortuna followers.
This Saturday marks a very special line in the sand of the industry. Who would’ve thought we are just one sleep away from the richest racing meeting by a country mile ever in NZ. If some bloke had told us we will be racing for over $9m in stake money in March 2025 say three or four years ago I reckon we would’ve all checked on his well being.
But here we are on Saturday with a great line up of talent – both equine and horse people throughout both NZ and aboard – about to strut their stuff. As a committee person at Trentham as part of the RACE group I would enjoy watching Perfumist go close and I’m sure she will but overall I’d wish all slot holders and owners of those in the NZB nothing but good luck for the inaugural running.
My three to follow for this weekend following on from December’s narrow but gutsy win; Navigator’s desperately unlucky Matamata sprint attempt and He’s A Doozy’s so-so 4th in the White Robe last week are:
Race 2 Ellerslie – This Time Girl
I liked her run behind Hinekaha and race rival Eye Candy at New Plymouth last time as she continues to improve. She was just a $10k purchase as a yearling and her pedigree traces back to champion two year old of the 89-90 season, Lycra, whose versatility saw her run a close 4th in the VRC Derby ( 2500m).
This filly is heading to the Oaks – alongside the majority of this field if they run up to expectations- and she looks every inch a leading light to confirm her place with a strong challenge in Saturday’s Sunline.
Hakkinen, NZ Derby
After Willydoit’s seemingly lack lustre run; albeit off a dawdling affair in the Avondale Guineas, the Derby is not cut and dried. Could Willydoit turn the Avondale Guineas form upside down? Of course he could but I’m a wee bit nervous for punters who may have climbed on prepost the Avondale Guineas. Those punters will need to hedge their bets and I’m considering having a little each way on the Te Akau runner, Hakkinen.
He’s got the second best jockey in Australasia in my humble opinion to J-Mac in Blake Shinn engaged and being by Savabeel from an outstanding guineas family which includes the super duper Miss Finland I see ho reason why he can’t play a hand in the outcome. He has a relaxed racing style coupled with a good turn of foot and that’s all necessary in this day and age to win at 2400m.
Trav – Auckland Cup
We need to get square after his luckless Wellington Cup run. Jumping 12 lengths last from the barrier and ending up 4th was massive.
Remember he’s closely related to Blood Brother and Princess Mellay, who between them won 4 races at the highest level over 2 miles.
The horse, from all accounts, hasn’t missed a beat since Trentham in mid January ( his last race) with jump out and trials form.
Good punting folks. Enjoy!
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.
