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Friday Flash – 10th November 2023

Published 10 November 2023

Headline News

Fortuna Owners Day 2023 is scheduled for Sunday 10^th December –

Melbourne Cup Overview

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Fortuna has 6 runners this weekend, 3 in NZ and 2 in Singapore on Saturday and 1 in Victoria on Sunday

NZ – Te Rapa

BELLATRIX STAR runs in the 2yo 1000m – Race 1 @ 12.50 and will be ridden by Niranjan Parmar, claiming 1kg, from a good barrier. A strong winning performance on debut at Whanganui in September marked this daughter of Star Witness as one to watch. Has been freshened since that race, has trialed strongly at Te Rapa 31^st October – is ready for this and can win in what will be a very competitive race – showing $2.40 fixed odds

BELLATRIX STAR – all action – closing stages – Wanganui 2nd September 2023

INCA BELLE races in the R65 1200 metre event – Race 5 @ 3.11pm with Niranjan Parmar, claiming 1kg, from the ace Barrier. Resuming here off a long break, she has had two trials to prepare and is down in grade. Won her first three races in a row at the start of her career – has trialed strongly ahead of this – represents a top 3 chance here @ $6.50/$2.40

NZ – Riccarton

DANCARINA contests the Pegasus Stakes (Listed) over 1000m – Race 5 @ 2.15pm with the inform Warren Kennedy to ride from the outside draw down the Riccarton chute. Good consistent form during the winter months culminated in a strong winning performance at Avondale in September. Freshened since, she trialed strongly 31^st Oct at Te Rapa. Up in Class her, but not out of it and represents great value @ $26/$6 Needs some luck in the running, but if she gets it can feature

Singapore – Saturday

KING ARTHUR races in the Class 1 1200m Turf event – race 7 @ 3.15pm Sing time (8.15pm NZT) with Stable apprentice S Jamil, claiming 3kgs, to ride from a mid field barrier. Not seen on the track since May 20^th (when he was ridden by jockey of the moment Mark Zahra) – this due to a slight injury, which required box reast and rehab, he has steadily worked back to fitness, trialed strongly last week and is ready to resume. The highest rated horse in the race (Rating 104) he is giving weight (in most cases significant weight) to his rivals. Not known for winning performances fresh, he may well need this run to get back to winning form.

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

1st Pick: GOLDEN MONKEY (2)
Blinkers go back on one of our highest rated horses of the past two seasons. Has been freshened up since his 3.4 length fourth placing to Lim’s Kosciuszko. Draws well and will be taking a sit ready to fire. Looks the goods here.
2nd Pick: KHARISMA (3)
Huge performance in the Group 3 Merlion Trophy last start coming from well back on the turn to run fourth in a tight finish. Well weighted and could spring up a surprise here.
3rd Pick: KING ARTHUR (1)
Placed at Group 1 level in the past and sits at the top of the ratings here. Not seen at the races since May and has had an injury issue after his last run. He’s a great sprinter but fitness is a query.
4th Pick: SILENT IS GOLD (10)
Looks the best of those down in the weights for this field. Did lead up a class one field two starts ago but doubt he can lead up Fame Star. If he gets a nice cart into the race the lightweight is vital to his chances.

KNIPPENBERG contests the Class 3 1200m Turf event – Race 12 @ 5.55pm Sing time (10.55pm NZT) with Ronnie Stewart to ride from Barrier 9. A strong performer in Singapore with 3 wins, 3 2nds and a 3^rdfrom 10 starts, he was completely luckless at his last start, getting badly interfered with at the 800m. Meets a good field here but is up to it and represents a good top 3 chance.

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

1st Pick: CITY GOLD STAR (5)
Nunes has taken this ride over Lord’s Command who he has had a good association with. That must fill you with some confidence and he beat Dream Alliance who faces the starter in the Gold Cup.
2nd Pick: KNIPPENBERG (7)
Didn’t have much luck in his most recent start behind Asif who he faces again this weekend. Drawn ideal to position up and let the strong early speed bring him into the race.
3rd Pick: LORD’S COMMAND (9)
Gets into this race nicely off the back of a successful start to his Singapore career. Draws nicely in gate two and will be up there looking a threat for a long way.
4th Pick: RENZO (1)
Very good performance at Group 3 level last start on the Polytrack to finish fourth. Gets into the race nicely back in class with Rozlans claim. Better on the Polytrack but has won on the turf.

Victoria – Ararat – Sunday

M’SIEUR BEAU GESTE races for the 2^nd time in Victoria when he contests the BM 70 Highweight over 3800 at Ararat on Sunday – Race 4 @ 3pm Aus time (5pm Singapore times) and will be re-united with Dean Parker as rider (Dean has ridden him for 3 of his 6 careewr wins to date). A free running effort at Mornington 27^th October over 3000m saw him finish in 5^th place – just getting warm at the finish in that event, he will appreciate the extra 800m this time, although is facing a stronger field. We are aiming to qualify him for the Jericho Cup (4600m 3^rd December) and this race is part of that process. Hard to line up the form, but has thrived since his last outing and is a chance to run in the money @ $26/$5

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Matamata Trackwork

Thursday 9th November

Inca Belle (J KAmaruddin) galloped over an easy 1000 metres in 1.10.2, final 600 in 40.4.

Singapore Trackwork

Saturday 4^th November

RHETT BUTLER (JAMIL)600-40; TRIDENT (JAMIL)600-42; KING ARTHUR (AWAH)1000/600-40;

Tuesday 7^th November

KING ARTHUR (AWAH)800/600-40; KNIPPENBERG (ASLAM)800/600-40; RHETT BUTLER (IBRAHIM)600-41; TRIDENT (ASLAM)600-41;

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OTHER NEWS

Fortuna Owners Day 2023 is scheduled for Sunday 10^th December

Yes it’s that time of the year again – the occasion of our very popular Owners Day where we will review the successes of the past 12 months, mix and meet and we will be parading all of the Matamata based horses

Venue – Epsom Lounge – Matamata Racecourse

Time – 1pm to 4pm

Refreshments provided

Note that it is important to register your attendance as we need that for catering – please email jessica@fortuna-nz.com or call/text 021 288 6997

Melbourne Cup Overview

All Melbourne Cups are special and the 2023 version fitted the mould perfectly with great weather, a huge happy crowd and an emphatic result for Without A Fight – rider Mark Zahra certainly pulled the right rein there didn’t he, getting off last year’s winner Gold Trip to ride Without A Fight. The horse himself is pretty special achieving the Caufield/Melbourne Cups double – last done in the early 2000’s by the Sir Peter Vela owned and Sheila Laxon trained Ethereal – notable that the Cups Double has only been done 12 times in the 163 year history of the Melbourne Cup

As for Mark Zahra, incredible to think that if he had not been a naughty boy and gone partying during the Covid era lockdowns, he would have ridden Verry Elleegant in 2021 (he was stood down and replaced by James MacDonald) and would have had three Melbourne Cups in succession on three different horses!!!

So how common is it for riders to score in successive Melbourne Cups? Well it is not unprecedented – Glen Boss rode three is a row on the same horse, Makybe Diva, 2003-05, but then you have to go back to Harry White who won in 1978 (Arwon) and 1979 (Hyperno) repeating a previous double in 1974/75 when he rode the NZ bred Think Big (by Sobig). Jim Johnson did the double in 1968/69 on Rain Lover, Jack Purtell achieved the successive year double on two different horses – Wodalla in 1953 and the mighty Rising Fast in 1954 – this following a three decade gap since Titch Wilson was successful on King Ingoda and Bitali in 1922/23, preceded by Albert Shanahan on Piastro and Posinatus in 1912/13 and last but not least, John Cutts rode the legendary Archer to success in the inaugural Melbourne Cup in 1861 and repeated the feat in 1862.

So Mark Zahra joins a select group of riders who have pulled off (a) a double in the Melbourne Cup and an even smaller group who have done the double on two different horses. Talking of Mark, he rode King Arthur for us in Singapore in May (without success I must say) – see picture below

Mark Zahra with John Galvin – Kranji 20th May 2023

Turning to betting strategy, how did our readers go on Tuesday? Please feel free to share any success stories with me. Yours truly had a degree of success with Without A Fight being my A selection. I had the 2^nd horse, Soulcombe in the mix so got the Quinella – I also had the 4^th horse, but sadly, not the 3^rd and do missed out on the Trifecta and First 4 (which paid over $300k – ouch!!!) – so a profitable day, but no cigar in the end.

And what a great result for Te Akau Racing with the Waikato Stud owned Skew Iff delivering in a Group race on Cup Day in the hands of Opie Bosson

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Guest Selector – Gary Williams

Gary delivered the VRC Derby winner last Saturday, only by a nose but a winner all the same – and Roger That ran into the money at Tauranga at juicy place odds – and at Flemington on Cup Day he found the winner and the 4th horse in the Cup – here is what he says this week

Hi John and Team

Well Cup week on both sides of the Tasman is sure living up to expectations with some great racing and the bigger pools give some decent ‘exotics’ divies. Like you I went within a whisker of winning big off the Melbourne Cup. After 2 of my 4 Cup selections ran in the top 4 along with my ‘system’ of taking the field for 4th ….I needed it for third ! Would’ve, could’ve, should’ve. !

I pen this just as James McDonald completes the Derby/Oaks double but his horses are sure short on the tote.

He has another good book for Saturday and I’ll be basing my exotics around his rides along with Craig Williams. Maybe they will fill the placings behind Imperatriz !

In Race 2 Craig Williams rides Our Last Cash, aptly named, at some value @$11 / $3

In Race 8, I willl stick with Westwind Blows, short at $3.
At Waikato I’m picking the Tangerine/Fortuna will provide the quinella in Race 1, while Race 3 Chris Wood could follow suit with Alfriston @ $3 is a huge chance while stablemate Jack The Lass @ $3.50 the place will be storming home late.

Race 8 the Group performer Polygon @$5.50 has no form but will improve from now on but I have a sneaky for Wolfgang @ $31 /$8, who has surprised previously.He actually clearly beat Polygon last start and drops in weight for this !!!

Riccarton gets its day in the sun and hopefully weather is OK this year.

Yes I shouldn’t tip maidens but Race 3 Mogul @ $5 /$2 looks a standout.

Race 4, Zacat @$10/$4looks some value for trainer /jockey Sam Wynne.

Race 5 Lincoln’s Kruz @ $15 /$4 strikes a strong field but he sped away in this last year !

Race 7 Nest Egg @ $7/$2 ]ticks a lot of boxes and I like Mahrajaan @ $4.50 place]as a quinella chance.

Race 8 Good Oil @ $4 /$2 is clearly that !

Race 9 The Guineas sees the topweight a real hot fav but I think Burn to Shine @$12 / $2.50 should relish the 1600m and provide the quinella.

I’ve been saving for this week all year and I know that any bad luck will be rectified at 2x big days Harness and another 2 days Riccarton [plus Ashburton trots as well].

Will it be 60 second noodles or Steak at the Ritz – Pray for me

Regards,
Gary Williams

Friday Flash – 3rd November 2023

Published 3 November 2023

Headline News

CUP WEEK is almost upon us – Derby Day this Saturday 4^th November

John reports on his “Tiki Tour” of Victorian Racing Venues

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Fortuna has 3 runners in NZ this Friday

Te Aroha – Friday 3rd November

COURT OF APPEAL runs in the Maiden Fillies and Mares 1600m – a Pearl Series event – Race 2 @ 12.18 and will be ridden by Niranjan Parmar, claiming 1kg, from a good barrier. Made her race day debut at Taupo 11^th October over 1300m – the trip was always going to be a bit short for her – she got into an awkward spot in the run and was unplaced at the finish but was very strong through the line. A strapping Filly by Eminent out of a Zabeel Mare, she is bred to run a trip and the 1600m on the big roomy Te Aroha track is ideal. Has the ability to run first three here

HAYATE races in the R65 1400 metre event – Race 6 @2.45pm with Michael McNab aboard from Barrier 7. Resuming here off a two month break, she has had one trial to prepare. A 3 win mare, who is looking for more distance this preparation, this is a good starting point for her, she runs well fresh and she should be running home strongly at the finish – can feature

VIVACIOUS debuts in the 3yo Maiden 1200 – Race 7 @ 3.23 with Vinnie Colgan to ride from the ace draw. This beautifully bred daughter of Dundeel has had two winning trials performances to prepare for this and has marked herself as one to watch. Presents as a very strong top three chance here

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Matamata Trackwork

Wednesday 1^st November
Court Of Appeal (W Kennedy) galloped over an easy 1200 metres, home in 42.5.
Vivacious (O Bosson) galloped over an easy 1000 metres, last 600 in 42.8.
Hayate (T Melvin) galloped over an easy 1000 metres, final 600 in 40.1.

Singapore Trackwork

Saturday 28th October

PRINCE LONHRO (AWAH)1000/600-39; KING ARTHUR (YUSOFF)1000/600-38.5;

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OTHER NEWS

CUP WEEK is almost upon us – Derby Day this Saturday 4^th November with the Golden Eagle at Rosehill providing a superb attraction as well – Go Legarto!!!

John’s Melbourne Cup Betting Strategy

Wow, the first Tuesday in Melbourne is almost upon us. The “day that stops a nation” has a rich history and even those with little interest in racing often get involved in workplace sweepstakes and the like.
With 24 runners and form lines that are hard to read, the Melbourne Cup provides great dividends; it is not hard to get double figure odds on all but the first two or three favourites and who can forget the First four dividend of the 2012 event, paying just a touch under $1 million for a $1 unit.

John here below outlines a suggested betting strategy for the Melbourne Cup. It is a strategy that both the “experienced” and “mug” punter can apply to this great event.
The objective is to, as a minimum, get back all or some of the initial outlay and at a maximum “scoop the pool”
Suggested Capital outlay $100. Not a small amount of money for many, but, hey, this is the Melbourne Cup.

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

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

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

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

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

So, how would you have done in the 2022 event if you had used this betting strategy?
Well, the winner, Gold Trip, paid $19.40 for the win and $5.80 for the place, so a $10 each way bet on him would have returned $252. The quinella paid a healthy $251.30 so if you had 1st and 2nd home, you would have collected a further $252.30. The trifecta paid $11,184 – with all the right numbers on your ticket a 25% percentage bet would have returned $2796 for the $15 outlay. The First 4 paid $102,784, so an 8% percentage bet would have returned $8,222 for the $29 outlay if you had the right numbers on your ticket

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

Good luck

John reports on his “Tiki Tour” of Victorian Racing Venues

With five Fortuna runners now based at Te Akau Racings Cranbourne stables and with three of them running 27th and 28th of October, John had decided to travel to Melbourne to take the opportunity of inspecting the new stables and attend the three different venues that the Fortuna runners were racing at.

John picks up the story “Traveling to Melbourne on the morning of Thursday 26th and after checking into a Central City Hotel, the rest of the day was spent writing up the Friday Flash and working out the logistics of how to get to three different racing venues on the Friday and Saturday. First stop on Friday morning was a visit to Cranbourne and I plumped to travel there by train. Cranbourne is situated about 40kms south east of Melbourne and the Flinders Street Station was a short walk from my hotel. The trains ran regularly, so I was aboard one about 9.30 for the 50 minute trip to Cranbourne. The experience was very similar to catching the train from Wellington to Trentham, with lots of stops along the way and virtually the whole trip was through pleasant suburban areas. I was struck by just how many homes had solar panels on their roofs – estimate one in three!!!”

“Te Akau Assistant Trainer, Ben Gleeson, picked me up from the Station and it was a short 5 minute drive to the Cranbourne Racecourse and Training Facility. The training set up there is amazing with several different training tracks associated with the course proper, an adjacent sand dune training area and an uphill track also adjacent. Te Akau have recently moved into their purpose built facility, with 20 boxes at this stage and another 40 to be constructed. See HERE and HERE some video footage. Ben Gleeson is all over the new project and clearly is a great addition to the Te Akau Team as they set up in Victoria.

“I inspected all five of the Fortuna runners at the Stable, Fleet Footed who had been there the longest, Rubicon Crossing who had won at Mornington 30th Sept at her Australian debut and the three recent arrivals from NZ, Zedwilldo, Beau Geste and Soprano Supreme. All presented in great order.

“We had two runners that day, firstly Beau Geste at Mornington and secondly, Rubicon Crossing at The Valley at the night meeting – logistically getting to and between these two venues was going to be a bit of a challenge, with Beau Geste racetime at 3.35pm and Rubicon Crossing at 6.15pm, with a 75km distance to travel between the two venues and traffic to contend with. Getting to Mornington was pretty easy, I simply hitched a ride on the horse transporter that was carrying Beau Geste along with his lovely Irish born strapper, Caroline Kirwan and the 35 minute trip from Cranbourne to Mornington was very pleasant with driver Dave, a 30 year veteran with horse transporting, very good company. Incidentally, Ben Gleeson informed me that there are 20 plus race tracks within a two hour drive of the Cranbourne facility.

“Beau Geste, now a 9 year old, was making his Aus debut – a proven performer here in NZ with 6 career wins on the flat and over the jumps, he is being set for a jumping career in Victoria in 2024, but firstly we are trying to qualify him for the iconic Jericho Cup, run over 3 miles on Sunday 3rd December – and his debut Aus run was to be in a BM 64 3000m highweight with Aaron Kuru to ride. He ran a bold race for 5th after being handy in the run, just finding the track a little bit firm for him when they sprinted for home, but was only getting warm at the finish – the further ho goes, the better he will be.

“The raceday office had been kind enough to order a taxi for me to take me from Mornington to the Valley and my Pakistani driver and I had a great conversation about the cricket World Cup during the 80 minute trip to the Valley – I arrived with almost an hour to spare before Rubicon Crossing’s race. Picking up my Owners tickets at the gate I caught up with syndicate Members Phil and Gilda Grigg, who had traveled from NZ and Susan Brumby, accompanied by her husband, David, who live in Victoria. Heading to the mounting yard, we watched Cube parading in the hands os strapper, Hailey Morton – rider Opie Bosson emerged from the jockeys room sporting the Fortuna Silks. A brief discussion with Ben and Opie re tactics (she had drawn the outside, so probably we would need to go back) took place and then it was racetime. As anticipated, there was too much speed inside “Cube” over the 1000m trip, so she went back, traveled three wide with cover, was four wide on the turn and in the end finished 5th, beaten just a bit over 2 lengths, a solid effort in what was a good field and from the difficult draw.

“Saturday dawned and the Fortuna 3yo Fleet Footed, was to have his race day debut at Yarra Valley, about an hour’s drive North East of Melbourne. Uber came to the party for this trip – Fleet Footed was in the first race over 1000m – Ross Herdman, a long standing Fortuna client has shares in him and lives nearby on the Mornington Peninsula, so we met up on course. Unfortunately for Fleet Footed (who went out favourite), the track at a Soft 5, was not to his liking and he faded to finish 7th – he is definitely a firm tracker

“Ross and I then drove to Moonee Valley (I had managed to score a couple of General Entry tickets courtesy of Karyn Fenton – Ellis – thank you Karyn) and we were there by Race 4, in time to see the Roger James/Robert Wellwood trained Prowess take out the Group 2 Crystal Mile, then watched in awe as Imperatriz just toyed with the field in the Group One Manikato. In the Cox Plate, I had plumped for the iron horse Alligator Blood and with 30m to go I was headed for the tote only to see him get run down in the last stride by Romantic Warrior!!!

“Ross was great company – he loves following the horses and had seemingly encyclopedic knowledge of almost every runner on the day. Moonee Valley on Cox Plate day was an amazing experience – every nook and cranny seemed to be occupied and our General Admission tickets did not provide stand access – thank heaven for the huge infield screen.

To summarise, there is no doubt in my mind that the Te Akau move to set up a permanent base in Victoria is an inspired move. Historically, Te Akau (and Fortuna) have campaigned horses in Australia, but generally only the very best ones, given the logistics and expense involved with “hit and run” campaigning. The permanent base allows for a much bigger team to be raced there – they cannot all be Champions but the depth and breadth of Victorian Racing, where they race seven days a week, means that every runner can find its own level “

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SHARES FOR SALE

We have just a few shares left in three Two Year Olds – one Colt and two Fillies – all three with genuine staying credentials

Here is the summary below

DAIDALOS – the 2yo Colt by Mastercraftsman out of Trikala (by High Chapparal)

Being prepared by Harry Eustace at Newmarket in the UK
Set to have his first race day start end of November/early December
Harry will attempt to qualify him for the UK/Irish/French Guineas/Derbies events May/June 2024
Sept/Oct 2024, he will travel out to Australia to join Mark Walker’s team at Cranbourne where he will be targeted at the Staying events in Victoria
A genuine staying type physically with Pedigree to match

Click HERE to see “Frankie” working on the Newmarket Heath a few days ago

Shares available down to 1% – $5880 for 5%, $2940 for 2.5% and $1176 for 1% with ongoing costs from 1 December @ $44 per month for each 1%

Click HERE to read full details about him on the Fortuna website

Daidalos – 2yo Colt by Mastercraftsman

QUEEN CONSORT – the 2yo Filly by Eminent out of Queen Boudicca

In full work at Matamata – she heads to the jumpouts 9^th November and then will trial 28^th November
Lovely physical type with looks to die for – click HERE to see her at Monday trot ups this week
Possesses a great pedigree page being by Eminent (a son of the mighty Frankel) and a half sister to the Group One 1000 Guineas (Caulfield) winner, Aloysia
Looks like a genuine staying type in the making but forward enough to suggest we may see her at the races as an Autumn 2yo

Shares available down to 1% – $8260 for 5%, $4130 for 2.5% and $1652 for 1% with ongoing costs from 1 December @ $44 per month for each 1%

Click HERE to read full details about her on the Fortuna website

QUEEN CONSORT – the 2yo Filly by Eminent out of Queen Boudicca

STAR SHADOW – the 2yo Filly by Reliable Man out of Scene Queen (by Redoutes Choice)

In full work at Matamata – she heads to the jumpouts 9^th November and then will trial 28^th November
Lovely strong grey Filly – click HERE to see her at Monday trot ups this week
Possesses a lovely staying type pedigree
Looks like a genuine staying type in the making but forward enough to suggest we may see her at the races as an Autumn 2yo

Shares available down to 1% – $5,760 for for 5%, $2,880 for 2.5% and $1152 for 1% with ongoing costs from 1 December @ $44 per month for each 1%

Click HERE to read full details about her on the Fortuna website

STAR SHADOW – the 2yo Filly by Reliable Man out of Scene Queen

HOW TO ORDER SHARES
Shares can be ordered direct from the website page for each horse at the links above – note that you may be eligible for a “retired horse” or other discounts – check with John by email or call/text 021 921 460 if unsure

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Guest Selector – Gary Williams

Gary pulled a few rabbits out of the hat last week with Gee Cee and Impendabelle both winning at Pukekohe at good odds and Romantic Warrior getting the job done in the last stride in the Cox Plate – other selections ran into the placings – here is what he says this week

Well John and Team, I very nearly was reverting to my Book of Excuses to explain some average runs but the rub of the green came our way last week, timely as we head into an exciting Spring program.

On local front I am looking to a couple of fellow ‘Senior Citizens’ for some eachway value.

Race 5 @ Tauranga Tightlign – $9/$3 and Race7 Roger That – $16 /$5 should give a great sight.

Down at Trentham race 5 Soldier Boy $10/$3 drops back in distance but certainly one to follow from now on.

Derby Day in Melbourne and I suspect James McDonald in for a big week…..It should start with Riff Rocket $2.70 in Derby and among others race 9 Tamerlane $4 /$2

Sydney has the Golden Eagle and gotta stay loyal with Legarto $8/$3 to run well for NZ. I also have a bias toward her rival Kovalica $11 /$3 as I was in the syndicate that raced her mum. Sure to storm home and possibly the quinella.One to follow over more ground.

Tuesday is Melbourne Cup day and look forward to the big pools and dividends especially for Trifectas and First 4’s.

Pukekohe fields not out but a little birdie tells me Canheroc lining up over 2400m…a promising stayer, max your bet then double it !

In the Cup I’ve been a Gold Trip fan for weeks now ….. James McD rides ….sure to go close tho class and track conditions will mean Without A Doubt and the hurdler Vauban are both strong contenders. All at the top of weights which is not ideal and I been looking at lightweight and roughie Ashrun to boost exotics !

Enjoy the best week of racing in the year

Regards,
Gary Williams

Friday Flash – 20th October

Published 20 October 2023

Fortuna Friday Flash – 20 October 2023

RUBICON CROSSING – Winning at Mornington 30th September 2023 – Harry Coffey aboard

(Image by Racing Photos – Victoria)

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Headline News

KNIPPENBERG wins again in Singapore – justifying his $1.30 favourtism

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Fortuna has 1 runner this weekend, at Horsham in Victoria

SOPRANO SUPREME kicks off her Aus campaign in the Horsham Cup, an Open Handicap over 2100m this Sunday 22^nd October – Race 7 @ 7.10pm local time (9.10 NZT) She will be ridden from a good barrier by the successful Country racing rider, Liam Riordan. She travelled to Cranbourne from Matamata on Tuesday and has settled in well to her new surroundings. As always, it is a bit hard to line up the form with new arrivals in Aus, but her last start 2^nd at Matamata was very good – she has raced well in Australia before and we are expecting a bold performance in this field with a good draw and a light weight

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Matamata Trackwork

No timed Fortuna trackwork this week

Singapore Trackwork

Saturday 14^th October

ELLIOT NESS(JAMIL)1000/600-39;; DECEPTION(ASLAM)1000/600-39;

Tuesday 17th October

DECEPTION(ZAKI)1000/600-40

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OTHER NEWS

Fortuna Racing’s KNIPPENBERG wins again in Singapore – his 3rd win from 9 race day starts

Published 15 October 2023

KNIPPENBERG, the four year old gelding by I Am Invincible out of Red Fez, was too strong for his rivals in the Class 4 1200m Turf event for prizemoney of S$50,000 14th October. Ridden by Stable Apprentice Sarwi Jamil and was sent out a red hot odds on favourite by punters. Drawn nicely with plenty of speed coming from horses drawn wider, Jamil, with his 3kg claim, was content to let the speed go and camp in a nice spot one out from the rail just in behind the leaders. Traveling well in the run KNIPPENBERG was full of running on turning for home, but was a little tight for room for a stride or two, however, Jamil, following Trainer Donna Logan’s instructions to the letter, brought him to the outside where he gradually reeled in the leaders and went to the line half a length clear in the smart time of 1.09.87 for the 1200m trip.

Fortuna Director John Galvin, watching from his home in New Zealand, was a happy man post race “Knippenberg has had an exceptional record in Singapore, winning three time now and running into the prizemonet on five other occasions from just nine starts and so has been a great performer for his ownership group. Lovely ride by Jamil and well done to Donna Logan, she has handled this horse perfectly”

Click HERE to see the race replay

Knippenberg’s Trainer, Donna Logan of Te Akau Racing Stables, was also pleased with the outcome. “I just love this horse, he never runs a bad race, he has been a tad unlucky not to wiin in his previous three starts but today was his day, aided by a super ride by Jamil. Well done to John Galvin and his big team of Fortuna racing supporters.”

Knippenberg – Making it 3 wins in Singapore – Kranji 15th October 2023

A jubilant Sarwi Jamil returns to scale after riding Knippenberg to his 3rd Singapore win

KNIPPENBERG had originally raced in Australia for his breeders Phoenix Thoroughbreds and been trained for them by the Ciaren Maher/David Eustace team. Showing just moderate form from two race day starts, his owners decided to offer him for sale at the Inglis Digital Sale (June 2022) – he was acquired by John Galvin for A$32,500 and sent to Singapore to race. John was assisted in his selection process by Mark Walker, the former Singapore based Trainer for Te Akau Racing and now leading Trainer for them in NZ

Knippenberg is owned by the Fortuna Knippenberg Syndicate, an Ownership Group of 46 individuals from New Zealand, Australia, Singapore and Malaysia – he has now won three times and five minor placings from 9 race day starts and has accumulated over S$150k in stakes monies

Winning connections with Knippenberg and rider Jamil after the race

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Guest Selector – Gary Williams

Gary is having a bit of a lean patch at the moment, but the law of averages are in his facour – here is what he says this week

Hi John and the Fortuna Team

The Bank Manager has put me on notice…..need to improve, but had a truck load of excuses last week..

Te Rapa…I’ve found three that surely must finish in the Top 3

Pinion – race 4, $6/$2, Clever Ruds – race 6, $8 /$2.50 with her featherweight and Habana -race 8, $4 /$2, should keep Johnny in his sights !! Each way , all day !

Big day at Caulfield – I saw Cup candidate West Wind Blows in the flesh recently and liked what I saw $7/ $2.50. And topweight Gold Trip remains my Melbourne Cup fancy , so should be close up !
Race 10, Ghaanati $7 /$2 looks well placed to feature.

Ashburton on Sunday – weather permitting, I notice 3 x strong winning chances before odds come out….I am wary of maidens but Diamond Alley race 2, Taliska race 3, Kahma Suitsya race 4 look a likely treble.

Good luck…bet with your shoelaces, not your shoes !

Cheers,
Gary

Fortuna Racing’s KNIPPENBERG wins again in Singapore – his 3rd win from 9 race day starts

Published 15 October 2023

Fortuna Director John Galvin, watching from his home in New Zealand, was a happy man post race “Knippenberg has had an exceptional record in Singapore, winning three time now and running into the prizemoney on five other occasions from just nine starts and so has been a great performer for his ownership group. Lovely ride by Jamil and well done to Donna Logan, she has handled this horse perfectly”

Click HERE to see the race replay

Knippenberg’s Trainer, Donna Logan of Te Akau Racing Stables, was also pleased with the outcome. “I just love this horse, he never runs a bad race, he has been a tad unlucky not to win in his previous three starts but today was his day, aided by a super ride by Jamil. Well done to John Galvin and his big team of Fortuna racing supporters.”

Knippenberg – Making it 3 wins in Singapore – Kranji 15th October 2023

A jubilant Sarwi Jamil returns to scale after riding Knippenberg to his 3rd Singapore win

Winning connections with Knippenberg and rider Jamil after the race

Friday Flash – 6th October 2023

Published 6 October 2023

Headline News

Fortuna 3yo Filly RUBICON CROSSING brilliant on her Australian debut at Mornington Saturday 30^th September

Entain’s NZ Managing Director, Cameron Rodger, updates us on Entain’s progress to date and plans

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Fortuna has 3 runners this Saturday, two in New Zealand and one in Singapore

New Zealand

MALBOROUGH BAY contests the R75 1600m event – Race 5@3.03pm but is on the ballot and will need two scratchings to get a run – no rider engaged given his ballot situation – was not disgraced this grade 1400m at Te Rapa 17^thSeptember – drawn nicely if he does get a start – can feature here with the right run

SOPRANO SUPREME races in the Open 2000m – Race 7@4.17pm with Joe Kamaruddin to ride – resumed Te Rapa Open 1600m 17^th September and battled away without threatening. Up in trip here will help as will the 54kgs, but we are looking for an improved effort – if she provides it, she can feature in the finish.

Singapore

ROCKY races in the Class 4 1600m Polytrack Saturday 7^th with Vlad Duric aboard from an inside barrier. Hardly ever runs a bad race and was desperately to be relegated last start after winning the race despite not making contact with the horse that was promoted. Trip and surface suits and will get an armchair ride from Barrier 4 in the hands of the former Singapore Champion rider. Strong top 3 chance in this.

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

1st Pick: PACIFIC HUNTER (7)
Open maiden winner who broke through impressively. Provided he has come on from that run, a class 4 win looks within his grasp.
2nd Pick: ACE SOVEREIGN (1)
It was a tough watch if you were on last start as he never got a crack at the leading chances buried away in the pack. With more luck this weekend, he can win.
3rd Pick: ENGINE START (2)
Manoel Nunes continues his association with this runner who is finally starting to get some consistency in his form. His last start win was impressive enough to entertain as an each way prospect in a field of this quality.
4th Pick: ROCKY (5)
Lost last start on protest laying out late in the race when under pressure. Vlad Duric jumps in the saddle this week as the runner drops back to 1600m, a distance he has won at in the past.

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Matamata Trackwork
Tuesday 3rd October Malborough Bay (J Kamaruddin) galloped over 1000 metres in 1.09.5, home in 40.1.

Singapore Trackwork

Saturday 30th September

DECEPTION (AWAH)800/600-41; KNIPPENBERG (ASLAM)1000/600-38.5; KING ARHUR (YUSOFF)800/600-41;

Tuesday 3^rd October

DECEPTION (JAMIL)800/600-42; KING ARTHUR (YUSOFF)800/600-42

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Fortuna 3yo Filly RUBICON CROSSING brilliant on her Australian debut at Mornington Saturday 30^th September

A dream start for Fortuna Racing with this victory coming at our very first start from the new Cranbourne base – and what a win it was – if you have yet to see the replay, Click HERE – she now deserves a crack at good race in the City and that will come Friday October 27th in the 3yo BM70 over 1000m – with prizemoney of A$150k

RUBICON CROSSING – Winning at Mornington 30th September 2023

Harry Coffey aboard

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Entain’s NZ Managing Director, Cameron Rodger, updates us on Entain’s progress to date and plans looking ahead

Greetings John and the Fortuna Team – John was kind enough to ask me to pen a few words about Entain and its new venture in New Zealand running the NZTAB

Progress & Initiatives to Date

It’s been nearly four months since we entered the New Zealand racing landscape as Entain Australia & New Zealand. During this last quarter, we’ve been keen to get out and about as much as we can, talking with participants about how we can best drive this industry forward. The team and I have been really enjoying our interactions and we’ve had some really positive feedback on some of the changes that have been made already.

Most significant is the increase in stakes that has flowed through to the Thoroughbred Code as a result of funding we have paid both upfront, and guaranteed over the course of the next 5 years as part of our strategic partnership. That funding is critical as it shores up the immediate financial future for racing participants – whilst we all work collectively on initiatives needed to set the industry up for success well into the future.

In addition to stake increases, you may have noticed a few other initiatives we have kicked off. As a first port of call, we got in behind the 2024 Karaka Millions as named sponsor as part of a long term deal. Auckland is a critical market for us as it currently under-indexes significantly in terms of racing customers and wagering activity. Given it is our largest city, and its growth outlook – that is a trend we need to turn around and the Karaka Millions event presents the perfect platform.

Outside of that, we have invested significantly in boosting the Pearl Series Scheme. The idea to support the Pearl Series came from our first month or so on the road talking with participants. We saw the importance of keeping our fillies and mares racing and ensuring that they can remain in the ecosystem and become breeding prospects, which in turn helps the horse population thrive.

These are a few of the initiatives we have underway, alongside a few additions which will soon be announced. Of course however, our key role in NZ is to provide and promote a wagering product offering that gets as many customers as possible engaged in racing as possible. We think the current TAB website and app experience needs some work and I am happy to confirm that we are well on our way towards rebuilding these experiences for customers. We are aiming for the end of Q1 next year launch to our new website and app, which will be based on the same platform we use within our Australian business to run the Neds.com.au platform. This offering will be significantly improved vs what TAB customers see today – with improved features, generosity options, black book functionality, form, tips, syndicate modes, a vastly improved live betting experience, as well as a raft of other changes that we know customers will love.

We are also planning on investing heavily to revamping the TAB retail network. This will include new betting terminals, as well as a fresh and modern experience that recognises the changing profile of our customers. There will be changes to the look and feel of Trackside in the coming months too; we have already put in motion several initiatives that we expect will maximise the reach, relevance and ultimately interest in racing across the country. On Livamol/Everest day – we will put into use for the first time our new ‘Trackside Premier’ channel – which will be an additional channel hosted on SKY as well as other platforms, where we will be showcasing full wall to wall race coverage from each of the Hastings and Sydney tracks.

Hopefully that gives readers a sense of what is to come. We have been watching closely some of the great emerging talent wearing the Fortuna colours and carrying on what is a truly great legacy. Those in the know on both sides of the Tasman have told me to keep a close eye on the 2YO – Bellatrix Star, who is a star in the making by all accounts. And what a brilliant start to Fortuna Racing’s Australian racing plans with the 3yo Filly, Rubicon Crossing, showing a brilliant turn of foot to win at Mornington last Saturday!!!

Cameron Rodger

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Guest Selector – Gary Williams

Gary continued on his merry way last week with two of his three Riccarton selections saluting – Sharp N Smart did not fire with a run too bad to be true and subsequently was shown to have a virus while over the ditch Kimochi ran 2^nd @ 1.90 the place and Kovalica was huge in the Epsom running 2^nd after being no chance on the turn, for the nice place odds of $3.30 – here is what Gary says this week

Hi John and the Fortuna Team

Early with picks this week , but I off to Melbourne Trots in Melton Friday and hopefully Flemington Saturday where Spring racing really hotting up ! Living the Dream !

Extensive study this week has unearthed several good chances who will be well worth folliowng over next 6 weeks or more.

Matamata …..Race 1 Prometheus green first start should be vastly improved @$9/$3
Race 5 …..Verstappen…..ticks a lot of boxes as each way prospect @$15/$4.50
Race 6 …..Legarto….should be too classy in Matamata Cup – short at $1.60 but hard to beat

Hawera ……Race 9 …..Ideal, has earned topweight but gets 2kg allowance and likely to extend top stats @$4.50/$1.90

Flemington …..Race 1 Bews $5/$2 – should be too strong for good start to day.
Race 7…..Athabascan $9 /$3 – Got it done for us last time, James Mac looking to qualify him for Melbourne Cup, Eachway Allday !
Race 8….West Wind Blows $8 /$3 – Meets a hottie in first start in Australia but has quality.
Race 9 …..Triple Missile $10/$3 nice odds for big chance !
Race 10……Von Hauke, lightly raced Savabeel who traces back to Auckland Cup winner Royal Tiara. Up in class but looks talented and could surprise at $30’s and $7’s.
I’ll have some gold coins for him , and look out for me driving home with the Champagne Chaffeur . Remember bet with your shoelaces , not your shoes !

All the best, Gary

Fortuna Filly RUBICON CROSSING scores a brilliant win at Mornington at her Australian debut

Published 1 October 2023

There was plenty to like about the fresh-up win by Rubicon Crossing (3 f Rubick – Miss Foxwood, by Fastnet Rock) in the $50,000 Benchmark 64 1000 metres for three-year-old fillies on Saturday at Mornington, Victoria. Having her first race day start in Australia, after being a debut winner of the first two-year-old race last season at Wanganui, Rubicon Crossing finished second in both the Welcome Stakes (Listed, 1000m) and Wellesley Stakes (Listed, 1100m), and stretched out nicely for close fourth in a trial on 29 August at Waipa.

Ridden by Harry Coffey, a Group One winning apprentice, Rubicon Crossing (known as “Cube” around the stable) made her hefty impost (61kg) appear featherweight as she engulfed the field and raced away to win by nearly three lengths.

“It was a great fresh-up win,” said trainer Mark Walker, following an enthralling track record performance by stable-mate Imperatriz (I Am Invincible) to nab her sixth Group One victory in the Moir Stakes (Gr. 1, 1000 metres) on Friday night at Moonee Valley. “She’s not very big, but she’s got good fighting qualities and I think we learnt something today about the best way to ride her, settling off the pace and she really attacked the line. I don’t think that will be her last win and there’s just so many suitable races for her over here.”

On Good3 footing, Rubicon Crossing ran 1000 metres in 57.5 and paid $5.20 & $2.60 on the NZ TAB tote.

Click HERE to see the race replay

Owned by the Fortuna Rubicon Crossing Syndicate (Mgr: John Galvin), she was purchased for $120,000 by David Ellis CNZM and Fortuna Racing at the 2022 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale, from the draft of Attunga Stud, Scone, NSW.

“The feedback we were getting from Ben Gleeson (assistant trainer) was that the field came up a bit stronger than we were anticipating,” John Galvin said from his Hamilton home after the race. “But she had done everything right since arriving at Cranbourne. They had worked on a few things over there, with some gear changes related to a high head carriage, so they’ve been working her in a bungee which helps keep her head down. We were confident she was going to run okay and the plan was always to run her with cover. Mark (Walker) had been saying that for a while and although she stepped a bit slow today it worked out well and you probably wouldn’t have wanted to be on any other horse as they turned for home. She showed a really good turn of foot -maybe not as impressive as Imperatriz on Friday night, but nevertheless it was reasonable carbon copy and Harry (Coffey) was quite glowing in his post race assessment. We had sent her to Australia so that she can contest these sorts of races (1000 – 1100m), there’s so many of them and we are thinking she probably now deserves a crack on a Saturday at one of the city tracks (Caulfield, Flemington, Moonee Valley).”

RUBICON CROSSING – Winning at Mornington 30th September 2023 – Harry Coffey aboard

By a good sire of two-year-olds, Rubick (Encosta de Lago), from a Fastnet Rock (Danehill) mare who won twice at 1400 metres, her grand-dam, Foxwood (Centaine), won the 2000 Guineas (Gr. 1, 1600m) and Captain Cook Stakes (Gr. 1, 1600m).

Her third dam, Delia’s Choice (Sir Tristram), is a sister to four-time Group One winner Sovereign Red, who included the Australian Derby (Gr. 1, 2400m) and Victoria Derby (Gr. 1, 2500m), and Gurner’s Lane, winner of the Caulfield Cup (Gr. 1, 2400m) and Melbourne Cup (Gr. 1, 3200m).

It is also the family of NZ-bred Australian star galloper Mr Brightside (Bullbars), a dual winner of the Doncaster Mile (Gr. 1, 1600m) among four Group Ones.

Rubicon Crossing is raced by the Fortuna Rubicon Crossing Syndicate with an Ownership Group of 50 individuals with Members from New Zealand, the USA and Australia

Friday Flash – 29th September 2023

Published 29 September 2023

Headline News

Fortuna 3yo Filly RUBICON CROSSING makes her Australian debut at Mornington Saturday 30^thSeptember

Solid efforts by Fortuna trialists in this past week

Imperatriz Ready for Group 1 Test for Te Akau at Moonee Valley

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Fortuna has 5 runners this weekend over three jurisdictions, Australia, Singapore and New Zealand

Australia – Mornington

RUBICON CROSSING contests the Benchmark 64 event for 3yo Fillies Saturday 30^th September – Race 1 @12.10pm Aus time (3.10pm NZT) and will be ridden by Harry Coffey from Barrier 2. A 2yo winner on debut in NZ a year ago, she was Stakes placed in subsequent 2yo racing – now transferred to the Te Akau Cranbourne stable, she impressed when running a tidy 2^nd placing at the recent Cranbourne jumpouts. Always hard to line up NZ form against Aus form, particularly with Sprinters, but she has travelled well, has worked well and showed a bit in her jumpout – is 3^rdFave with the bookies at $7.50/2.05 fixed odds – can run into the money from her nice draw

Singapore

ELLIOT NESS races in the Class 4 1100m Polytrack Saturday 30^th with apprentice Clyde Leck, claiming 1kg, aboard from an outside barrier. A speedy type who has won three times in Singapore and holds the track record this trip and surface, he has a really difficult task from his wide draw. Pace is expected to be brutally fast in this, so a canny ride from the draw and a few ounces of luck and he can feature in the finish

ENTERTAINER races in the Class 4 1100m Polytrack Saturday 30^th with apprentice Fadzli Yusoff, claiming 2kg, aboard from a mid field draw. An eight time winner in Singapore, “Joker” has been out of form in recent runs, but has had difficult draws to contend with. Has got to a dangerous place in the ratings, but does need to step up here to feature.

New Zealand

BEAU GESTE contests the Open Hurdles at Woodville Sunday 1^st October – Race 3 @ 1.18pm with Shaun Fannin to ride. Is a very talented jumper but had interrupted start to the season – looks well suited here and has the champ jumps rider aboard – each way

KHAFEEF races in the Open Steeples at Woodville – Race 4 @ 2.30. Has won over the Hurdles earlier this year but is not known for handling heavy conditions – will need a lot of things to go right to feature

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Matamata Trackwork

No Fortuna timed trackwork this week

Singapore Trackwork

Saturday 23rd September

KING ARTHUR (AWAH)600-42; PRINCE LONHRO (ASLAM)1000/600-38;; DECEPTION (ZAKI)600-42; GUN(ASLALM)1000/600-38;

Tuesday 26th September

ELLIOT NESS (YUSOFF)800/600-40.5; DECEPTION
(ZAKI)800-40; ENTERTAINER (YUSOFF)800/600-39.5; KING ARTHUR (AWAH)600-41;

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Fortuna 3yo Filly RUBICON CROSSING makes her Australian debut at Mornington Saturday 30^thSeptember

Exciting times for “Cube’s” large ownership group as she makes her Aus debut this week. A debut winner in NZ as a 2yo (Whanganui Sept 2022), she subsequently ran very well at her subsequent 2yo starts, including being Stakes placed. By Rubick and a very speedy type better suited to shorter trips, the Training Team recommended that she do her future racing out of the Cranbourne barn and that advice was accepted with alacrity by her owners. She ran a lovely 2^nd at the Cranbourne jumpouts recently and is all set to put her best foot forward over the coming months. She will be Fortuna’s first runner from the Cranbourne Stable

Rubicon Crossing winning on debut at Whanganui September 2022
Lisa Allpress aboard

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Solid efforts by Fortuna trialists in this past week

Six Fortuna runners went to the trials this week in three jurisdictions.

3yo Fleet Footed (Zoustar) was first out of the blocks on Monday at Cranbourne. Haviing his first public outing in the Fortuna Silks, he was up on the speed the whole trip with Mick Dee aboard and went to the line a clear winner

Tuesday on the Cambridge Synthetic saw three runners – the first was our newly acquired Stayer, Zedwilldo, who was strong to the line for a 2nd placing with Warren Kennedy aboard. He will do his future racing out of the Cranbourne barn and will head to Victoria on 10th October

Court of Appeal, our 3yo by Eminent out of a Zabeel mare, impressed when running home strongly for 3rd, with Warren Kennedy aboard – she will make her raceday debut at Taupo 11th October

Vivacious, our 3yo Filly by Dundeel, caught the eye at her very first trial, she was just nutted on the line in the hands of Opie Bosson – Opie gave her a big thumbs up post trial. Click HERE to see the replay. She has grown a couple of legs these past few weeks, so one to keep an eye on. She will trial again at Matamata 10th October

Up in Singapore, we had two runners having their first Singapore trials, both running 2nd – the first of these was the 3yo Gun (Extreme Choice) and the other was our 4yo, Prince Lonhro (Lonhro). Both of these will have another trial before making their Singapore debuts shortly after that

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Imperatriz Ready for Group 1 Test for Te Akau at Moonee Valley
An intriguing evening at “The Valley” with Imperatriz stepping out to contest what will be for our friends at Te Akau Racing, their 1st Group One attempt from the new Cranbourne Stable – see story below from the NZ Racing Desk

There has been plenty of intrigue on whether the A$20 million carrot of The Everest (1200m) would prove too enticing for Te Akau Racing with their star sprinter Imperatriz (I Am Invincible), but they have put the nail in the coffin of that idea this week.

Te Akau principal David Ellis has confirmed once more that she will remain in Melbourne at their new Cranbourne base and target three Group One races, starting with Friday’s Moir Stakes (1000m) at The Valley. “It was an interesting decision, but we’d pretty much made up our mind a month or six weeks ago that we’d go for the Group One races,” Ellis told Racing.com. We’ve been offered some positions (in The Everest) by really good judges in Australia, but we’ve decided that we want to keep her in Melbourne to race this spring. We think she’s slightly better left-handed than right-handed and she’s already had a long trip over form New Zealand to Melbourne, so I don’t think she needs another long trip up to Sydney. We love racing in Melbourne, our owners love it so with our base there, it was a pretty easy decision to make in the finish. We have got a lot of owners going over and it will be a fun night.”

Imperatriz impressed with her first-up victory in the Gr.2 McEwen Stakes (1000m) at The Valley earlier this month, adding to her previous heroics when winning the Gr.1 William Reid Stakes (1200m) at the Melbourne track in March.

She had a hit-out at The Valley on Tuesday morning over 800m alongside stablemate Zourion and trainer Mark Walker was pleased with what he saw from the five-year-old.

“It’s just been a balancing act trying to keep her fresh enough to go another 1000m, but Ben’s (Gleeson, assistant trainer) been happy with her the whole way through, and I thought her work was good,” Walker said. “In a perfect world you’d be going 1100 if not 1200m, so we’ll just have to see Friday night if she is fresh enough. She’s actually a Group One winner over a mile at home in New Zealand but I think her pet distance is 1200 if not 1400m. It’s a bit of a juggling act trying to go 1000m again.”

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Guest Selector – Gary Williams

Gary made a bit of money for his followers last week with, firstly, Verstappen, whom he tipped when fixed odds were $26/5.50, flying home for 2^nd from an impossible position on the turn, paying $4.30 the place on the tote. Then his Rosehill tip in the Stayers Race, Athabascan, prevailed at $4.50 the win and then to cap things off Encap, at the same venue, ran 2^nd in the Golden Rose at $3.40 the place!!!@

Hi John and the Fortuna Team

Spring racing is hotting up…..shame about the weather !

Hastings has a Group 1 day and I like Chantilly Lace in Race 5 for the place …….currently second fav behind the hottie, but sure to run well @ $6 / $2

In the big race (Race 7) Sharp’N’ Smart @ $10 / $3 looks good value and should handle any track with Legarto the Quinella if track improves !

At Riccarton can’t go past the Tangerine. Race 5 Trobiand $3.50 /$1.50 looked handy last season while Race 10 It’s Business time should win at $2.50 Max your bet then double it. Race 7 Cullinan got us through last time and should again step up and represents value at $8 / $3.

Randwick also has a big Group 1 day and I’m looking for a Kiwi Special – K day. Race 6 Jason Collett rides Kimochi @ $5 / $2, while in the Epsom Race 8, Chris Waller puts up Jose Moreira on Kovalica $9 / $ 3. Ticks a lot of boxes after looking so tough as a 3 year old. Should be longer on tote !

Good Luck,
Gary Williams

Friday Flash – 22nd September 2023

Published 22 September 2023

Headline News

Fortuna’s smart 2yo Filly BELLATRIX STAR returns to training

Te Akau’s Tarzino Trophy winner, SKEW WIFF, is crossing Tasman to race and underlines the value and importance of the new Cranbourne Stable

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No Fortuna Runners this weekend however ZEDWILLDO trials at Te Rapa on 26th September

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Matamata Trackwork

Thursday 19^th September

Court Of Appeal (C Burdan) galloped over 1000 metres in 1.08.4, final 600 in 39.7.
Zedwilldo (R Sheehan) galloped over an easy 1000 metres in 1.09.6, home in 40.1.

Singapore Trackwork

Saturday 16th September

GUN (YUSOFF)800/600-39.5; PRINCE LONHRO (ASLAM)1000/600-39;

Tuesday 19th September

PRINCE LONHRO (ASLAM)1000/600-39; GUN (YUSOFF)1000/600-40;

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Fortuna’s smart 2yo Filly BELLATRIX STAR returns to training

Given a three week paddock break at Te Akau Stud after her debut win at Whanganui on 2^nd September, BELLATRIX STAR returned to work at Matamata during the week. Mark and Sam were very pleased with how she had spelled and she will now be set on a path toward the Karaka Million event in late January. Click HERE to see her parade at Matamata Thursday morning with voiceover from Mark

2yo Filly, BELLATRIX STAR and Michael McNab, return to scale after her debut win 2nd September

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Te Akau’s Tarzino Trophy winner, Skew Wiff, is crossing Tasman to race and underlines the value and importance of the new Cranbourne Stable

Breaking news out of the Te Akau stable re the Waikato Stud owned Skew Wiff – Click HERE to read full story

As you will read, this most recent Group One winner for Te Akau will contest the G2 Rose Of Kingston Stakes at Flemington and all going well there will be aimed at the A$10m Golden Eagle later in October. There is a certain irony in this plan, one which underlines the significance and importance of the Cranbourne initiative. The irony stems from the fact the winner of last year’s Golden Eagle, I Wish I Win, also owned by Waikato Stud, was originally trained by Te Akau, but with his owners wishing to chance their arm across the Tasman and with no Te Akau base over there at that time, they made the decision to transfer him to the Peter Moody stable. Now with the Cranbourne set up, it becomes a “Win, Win” situation for both Owner and Trainer in the case of Skew Wiff and undoubtedly for plenty of other horses in the future as well.

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Guest Selector – Gary Williams

Gary had two winners last week with Cullinan and Nedwin – here is what he has to say for this week

Hi John and the Fortuna Team

I think we got a pass mark last week as the change in weather and track conditions remain volatile at best. The North is warming up while wind and snow returns further South.

At the Tauranga meeting on Saturday, Flamebird – Race 2 @$3.60 ticks a few boxes while Verstappen [Race 7] who races well fresh holds appeal at the outsider odds of $26/$5.50

Down at Awapuni The Finnster – Race 4 @$5.50/$2.10 has Joe Doyle aboard and they tick a lot of boxes, as does Cork – Race 7 @$6.30/$2.20 who looks well weighted in a tough field.

Over at Rosehill, where firm ground seems certain, French horse Athabascan – Race 5] looks good at $4 to win while Encap – Race 8 faces a tough test in Golden Rose but looks value at $9.50…Each way, all day.

Good Luck,
Gary

Friday Flash – 15th September 2023

Published 15 September 2023

Headline News

ZEDWILLDO shares filling very quickly

Fortuna Racing – Cranbourne Stable

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Six Fortuna Runners this weekend – four in Singapore (although one is on the ballot) on Saturday and two at Te Rapa on Sunday

Singapore – Saturday 16^th

ROCKY contests the Class 4 1700m Poly event – Race 9 @ 4pm Sing time (8pm NZT) – with Zyrul to ride from Barrier 2 – is racing in great form – meets a good field here and steps up to 1700m for the first time – will get soft run from barrier and has just 51.5kgs to carry – is right in this and represents a very good top 3 chance

KNIPPENBERG races in the Class 4 1200m Turf – Race 10 @ 4.30pm Sing time (4.30pm NZT) and will be ridden by Stable Apprentice Fadzli Yusoff from a handy draw – another who is racing in great form – is poised to make this career win No 3 in Singapore

ENTERTAINER contests the Class 4 1100 Poly – Race 11 @5pm Sing time (9pm NZT) with Stable Apprentice Fadzli Yusoff to ride from the outside barrier. An eight time winner in Singapore with seven of those wins coming at this trip and surface, once again he is drawn off the track – will need a lot of luck from the draw but if he gets it, he can be a top four contender

ELLIOT NESS is also in the Class 4 1100 Poly – Race 11 @5pm Sing time (9pm NZT), but needs 2 scratchings to get a run, so no rider fixed at this time. Holds the Singapore track record this trip and surface and so if he gets a run, he has a nice barrier draw and is certainly capable of featuring.

Te Rapa – Sunday 17^th – Great Northern Day

SOPRANO SUPREME runs in the Open Handicap 1600m event – Race 5 @2.03pm and will be ridden by Stable Apprentice, Jessica Allen (claiming 3kgs). This staying type mare is resuming after two trials – meets a strong field here at a trip well short of her best distance – will be running on strongly at the finish.

MALBOROUGH BAY contests the R75 1400m event – Race 8 @ 3.57pm. Dominant winner this trip Matamata 27^thAugust but is up in grade here. Drawn well in gate 5 and has Champion jockey Michael McNab in the saddle – needs to progress to feature here, but has more than a bit of ability and can feature in the finish

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Matamata Trackwork

Thursday 12^th September

Dancarina (N Parmar) galloped over 1000 metres in 1.07.2, home in 38.9
Ragamuffin (R Sheehan) galloped over an easy 1000 metres in 1.11.2, home in 39.8.

Singapore Trackwork

Saturday 9th September

ELLOT NESS (JAMIL)1000/600-39; PRINCE LONHRO (ASLAM)800/600-38; ENTERTAINER (YUSOFF)1000/600-39; GUN (YUSOFF)800/600-3939; ROCKY(YUSOFF)1000/600-39;

Tuesday 12^h September

GUN (ASLAM)800/600-38; PRINCE LONHRO (ASLAM)800/600-38.5; ENTERTAINER (YUSOFF)1000/600-39;

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ZEDWILLDO shares filling very quickly

It has been a busy week for John and Jessica processing incoming orders for our recently acquired Stayer ZEDWILLDO (Zed-Katie Spice) with 84% of the shares taken up over the past seven days. As readers will be aware, we love the Stayers, have had good success with them and this latest acquisition with his stayers pedigree, physical type, trials and race day performance looks to be the “real deal.” Word from his Te Akau trackwork riders is that “Dez”is a beautiful mover with a powerful action. Ongoing plans for him are a trial at Te Rapa on 26^th September and then he will be on a flight to Melbourne and will make his Australian debut in a 1700/1800 Maiden race early to mid October. Te Akau’s Assistant Trainer Ben Gleeson has a few debut options lined up.

Ongoing plans are ambitious – as Mark Walker says “we dream big in this game” and we make no secret of the fact that we are going to set ZEDWILLDO on a path that hopefully will see him contest some of the big Cups races in Victoria and New South Wales over the next two or three seasons.

ZEDWILLDO – Matamata Stables 6th September

Don’t miss this one – full details including video footage of his trial, race debut and parades can be seen at the link HERE and shares can be obtained from the link also

$1800 Initial payment for 1% and $50 per month ongoing from 1 November – $4,500 for 2.5% and $125 per month ongoing – $9000 for 5% and $250 per month ongoing

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Fortuna Racing – Cranbourne Stable

Our good friends at Te Akau Racing had a dream start to their new Cranbourne venture when their very first runner, IMPERATRIZ blitzed a quality Group 2 field at Moonee Valley. This of course on top of a day when Mark Walker/Sam Bergerson produced four winners at Hastings including all three Group races on the program. And to add icing to the cake, Te Akau featured strongly at the Annual NZ Thoroughbred Awards event 10^th September with Tokyo Tycoonnamed as 2yo of The year, Imperatriz Champion Sprinter/Miler and Mark Walker Champion Trainer

Turning to the new Cranbourne Stable, Fortuna Racing already has a presence there with two 3yo’s already stabled. Fleet Footed (by Zoustar) we had acquired as a 2yo Colt out of an Inglis Digital Sale earlier in the year – originally destined for Singapore, we pulled the pin on that plan after the Singapore Turf Club closure announcement and decided to keep him in Australia for racing. Now gelded he is getting very fit and will go to the trials very shortly ahead of making his race debut. 3yo Filly, Rubicon Crossing (by Rubick) who raced successfully in NZ as a 2yo has already crossed the Tasman and will make her Aus debut at Mornington on 30^th September in a 3yo Fillies 1000m event.

But it does not end there – our 6yo Staying Mare, Soprano Supreme, who resumes at Te Rapa on Sunday, will travel to Cranbourne soon after that race and be aimed at staying events in Victoria, Zedwilldo will also travel there after trialing at Te Rapa on the 26^th and the Wellington Cup winner, Leaderboard, who returned to work recently, will travel later in the year and be prepared for a jumps campaign in 2024. Exciting times indeed for the connections of all of these runners.

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Guest Selector – Gary Williams

Gary had a solid result last week with a winner (Fashion Shoot) and two placings at good each way odds (Dragon Leap and Slipper Island) from his four selections. He has gone “wide” this weekend – here is what he has to say

Hi John and the Fortuna Team

After last week’s good effort, extra study has gone into this week’s racing which is hotting up as Spring racing brings out fresh runners on the track and winter gallopers hope the wet tracks continues

I have searched North, South, Central and Melbourne for these ‘specials’….

Riccarton race 1 ….Cullinan now ready for 1600m and odds should lengthen on tote [ currently $3.50].

Taranaki race 2…..Polly Grey ,back from Aussie quality. ..looks special @ $4 [ Is double acceptor at Te Rapa also]

Melbourne race 2…..the drums are beating Shalyhar. Ticks a lot of boxes but short @$3. Should pay more on tote

Taranaki race 5……Helena Baby [ $21 / $5 ] ….loves the track , the going and well weighted.

Riccarton race7…..Lightning Jack [ $4 place]…needs further but has class and weight relief to storm into a place. One to follow .

Riccarton race8….. Illicit Dream [ $4 win] Yes , up against the Tangerine but is tough and will push hot favourite . Each way all-day !

Finally, the Great Northern meeting features at Te Rapa on Sunday and a likely double is the two top weights. There is a reason they head their fields. Race 4 Nedwin [ $3.20 ] and Race 7 The Cossack [ $2 ] – Maximise your bet,then double it!!

But always bet with your shoelaces, not your shoes !

Regards,
Gary

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Finally, the Galvin Family head off to Fiji Saturday 16th September for a well deserved 6 day vacation

Friday Flash – 8th September 2023

Published 8 September 2023

Headline News

Fortuna stats for the new NZ season to date are looking good @ 5 wins from 13 starts = Strike Rate of 2.6!!!

And isn’t it great to see Stakes of $65k minimum on Tarzino Day at Hastings tomorrow

Fortuna secures a strong Staying type for Australian Racing – ZEDWILLDO – shares available now

2yo Filly Bellatrix Star wins on debut at Whanganui 2^nd September

5yo Dancarina records her 3^rd career win Avondale 6^th September

Auckland Thoroughbred Racing announces a $3m Stakes “top up” over and above standard NZTR prizemonies

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One Fortuna Runners this weekend – at Waverley on Sunday 10^th

KHAFEEF tackles the R65 2200m event – Race 8 @ 4.30pm – Mereana Hudson to ride. Back to the flat after a last start Hurdles event at Riccarton. Is very capable on his day, but can be a very difficult ride for his jockeys – if he settles he can feature

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Matamata Trackwork

No timed Fortuna Trackwork this week

Singapore Trackwork

Saturday 2^nd September

PRINCE LONHRO (AWAH) 600-40; GUN (ASLAM)600-40; ELLIOT NESS(ASLAM)1000/600-38;KNIPPENBERG(ASLAM)1000/600-37; ENTERTAINER (ASLAM)1000/600-38;

Tuesday 5^th September

GUN (AWAH)600-41; PRINCE LONHRO (JAMIL)600-41

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Fortuna secures a strong Staying type for Australian Racing – ZEDWILLDO – shares available now – 45% committed already – a “Cups” type stayer in the making

$4.5k for 2.5% – $1.8k for 1%

Here is a wonderful opportunity to get involved with a classy Stayer who will do his future racing in Victoria – the 5yo ZEDWILLDO (Zed – Katie Spice by Mastercraftsman) – will race out of Mark Walker’s Cranbourne base – stablename is “DEZ”

Acquired here in NZ, he will head to Victoria late September/early October and make his Australian debut mid October
Has only had one trial in his career – this a winning one at Avondale in August – Click HERE to see that trial (purple silks, green sleeves)
Has only has one raceday start (for his previous owner) – at Matamata 27th August running a fast finishing 5th over 1400m after being checked in the run and held up on the turn – Click HERE to see that race video replay
Inspected by Mark and John at Cambridge 31st August – click HERE to see that parade clip
Vetted by Dr Ronan Costello 1st September – passed with colours flying – Click HERE to read the Vet report
Paid for on Monday 4th and transported to Te Akau Stables Matamata – click HERE to see him parading Monday afternoon with voiceover from Mark – as you will hear Mark just loves him
Presents as a genuine “Cups” staying type – with a deep NZ staying pedigree, has size and the scope and remarkably, as a 5yo now, has only had one trial and one race, so plenty of “miles in the legs” yet
NZ$1800 per each 1% share and NZ$50 per month from 1 November

As you know we love our stayers and have had quite a bit of success with the ones we have bought to date – they are not easy to buy as it is impractical to try and buy a yearling to develop into a stayer, particularly for a “boutique” syndicator like Fortuna which does not buy large numbers.

But we are always on the lookout and a few months ago, realising that our traditional path of buying tried stayers out of the UK was becoming more difficult – this because of the “deep pocketed” Australian syndication companies and “headline” Trainers and more recently, with the huge prizemoney increases in the Arabian racing jurisdictions, from Arab based entities – we decided to focus more on “homegrown” opportunities – after all, NZ still has some of the best staying bloodlines in world racing, but with so many of our promising staying types getting sold to Aus and Hong Kong, they are not gracing the race tracks here.

I put out feelers to a couple of Bloodstock Agents that I have got to know fairly well with a brief to find me a nice “tried” staying type that was lightly raced, that had plenty of upside and that had shown enough to suggest they would be good enough to compete in Australia. I had inspected a couple of such types over recent weeks and turned them down (this in conjunction with Mark Walker) and then out of the blue, about a week ago, I had one brought to my attention and boy, is he a beauty who ticks just so many boxes.

His name is ZEDWILLDO and he was acquired by the party we bought him from (Diane Kennedy) off Gavelhouse as a yearling – Diane is a superb horsewoman who gave him plenty of time to develop and mature before getting a saddle on his back, hence why he is so lightly raced. Mark and I were a bit cautious to start with, given him being a 5yo (note that he is a November foal though, so still yet to turn 5) but on reviewing his trial and his raceday start, we warmed to him and then we inspected him last Thursday, we were blown away. He is a very athletic gelding with size and scope, was fabulous in the coat and had a beautiful, loose-moving walk. He was vetted on Friday passing with flying colours – so we secured the purchase and on Monday 4th he traveled to Matamata from Cambridge where Mark will work him for about three weeks, get to know him a bit and then he will be on a plane to Victoria to go to Te Akau’s new stables at Cranbourne and will make his Aus debut soon after arrival

Ben Gleeson, Mark’s assistant trainer, who is now based at Cranbourne has seen the trials and race footage and also the parade footage – Ben was formerly Danny O’Brien’s assistant trainer and of course, they won the Melbourne Cup with Vow and Declare in 2019. so Ben knows quite a bit about what sort of horse can be successful in Victoria and he was also very taken with the footage.

As stated already, he will go straight to Victoria – still a Maiden, we may as well be racing for an A$40k Maiden over there rather than a NZ$18k one here. Kozzi Asano rode him in his trial and race and, as always, we seek riders’ opinions on the horses we are considering – he says “John and Mark, Zedwilldo is a real genuine staying type – he is still untapped in my opinion but has a lovely relaxed action and will stay all day”

PHYSICAL TYPE

Stands at 16.1 hands high and weighs around the 510kg mark – lovely walking horse as you will see from his parade clips

ZEDWILLDO – Matamata Stables 6th September

Mark says “John, I really love this horse – he has a great action, I just loved the way he powered home under testing conditions at Avondale in his trial and his debut raceday performance on a much firmer track had a lot of merit also – he deserves to have his racing opportunity in Victoria – there are just so many more opportunities for staying types like this bloke in Victoria as they go through the grades – and for wonderful prizemoney also. And of course, if he proves to be really top class, the big Cups races are right there on your doorstep – I can’t wait to get my hands on him.”

Dr Ronan Costello our very good Vet, put him through his paces on Friday morning with a full physical exam, scoping before and after a 1000m gallop and X rays of his forelegs. Ronan is the consummate professional, but when he called me after the exam, he was full of praise for the horse – he said, “John, I inspected Zedwilldo today and a full report is on its way, but I must say that he is a very impressive physical specimen, 100% sound, clean in the wind, clean x rays and as I watched him gallop past me, he took my breath away with just how smooth his action was – lovely horse”

Pedigree – see below – note the dam sire line, Mastercraftsman, Montjeu, Star Way, In The Purple and before that (not shown on the pedigree page, it is Le Filou and Faux Tirage – this is a deep, deep NZ staying pedigree – this is the family of Military Plume and Monaco Consul

Note also that he is by ZED, who has already sired a Melbourne Cup winner (Verry Elleegant)

Plans – he is now in the Matamata Stables, where Mark and Sam will work him along and he will trial at Te Rapa 26th of September – he will fly to Melbourne straight after that – he will have his first raceday start over there a few days after he arrives – Te Akau’s Australian Assistant Trainer Ben Gleeson is already looking at the program – he will probably kick off at 1600m but then step up in trip pretty quick after that and after securing a Maiden win, we will just work him through the grades and see where we get to with him.

Pricing – full paperwork is still to be finalised so we are taking expressions of interest at this stage, but I have done the number and his fully syndicated price will be NZ$180k, this includes Purchase price, Promoters fees, Insurance to 31 Jan 2024, Freight to Australia, Aus GST on entry and working capital of over $10,000.This means a 10% share is $18k, 5% $9k, 2.5% $4.5k and 1% $1.8k. Ongoing costs start 1 November 2023 @ NZ$50 per month per each 1% share – training costs will be higher in Aus than they are here, hence the higher than standard monthly contribution

I am sure this offering is going to be very popular, so please register your interest with me asap by responding to this email – if you are registered, you will not miss out – Please feel free to direct any questions/queries you may have either by email or call/text John 021 921 460

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Fortuna Two Year Old Filly, BELLATRIX STAR, shines brightly with winning debut Whanganui 2nd September 2023

Published 3 September 2023

Worthy of favouritism, Bellatrix Star (2 f Star Witness – Alana’s Party, by Exceed and Excel) debuted with victory in the $25,000 Wanganui Chronicle Maiden 2YO 800 metres on Saturday at Wanganui in the hands of NZ Champion Jockey, Michael McNab

Last season Te Akau and Fortuna had success with Rubicon Crossing (Rubick) in the same event and similarly with Bellatrix Star was also purchased in conjunction by David Ellis CNZM and Fortuna Racing’s John Galvin, who syndicated both Fillies

In her sole trial on 1 August at Te Rapa, Bellatrix Star camped behind two leaders, cornered well, and let down strongly under minimal urging to win and rider Michael McNab was keen to continue his association. While drawing the outside (6) had some drawbacks, ridden conservatively appeared the right approach and although requiring full stretch to claim the pacemaker, Hard Attack (All Too Hard), McNab showed an element of confidence in his charge. Scoring by a nose, with over four lengths to second, Bellatrix Star ran 800 metres in 46.4 on footing upgraded to Soft7 and paid $1.50 & $1.20 on the NZ TAB tote.

Click HERE to watch the replay

“Even though she won by a short margin, it was most impressive given the way she got it done,” said co-trainer Mark Walker, who during a record-breaking previous season of 203 wins, had 29 two-year-old runners, 11 individual winners, 21 wins, 21 seconds, and 12 thirds. “She had to do it the tough way, getting back and running down the leader, and it’s not that easy over only 800 metres. It was a lovely ride of Michael’s, giving her such an educational sort of ride and that will be great experience for her going forward. She will have a little break now at Te Akau Stud. I think she will come back bigger and stronger and I certainly feel she is a Karaka Million type of filly. There is a lot of upside with her and she has the size and scope to really train on.”

BELLATRIX STAR – wins on debut – Wanganui 2nd September 2023
Michael McNab aboard (picture by Race Images)

Boasting a speedy pedigree, Bellatrix Star was purchased for $80,000 by Ellis and Galvin in January at the Karaka 2023 Book 1 Sale, from the draft of Phoenix Park, and owned by Fortuna Bellatrix Star Syndicate.

Fortuna Racing Director, John Galvin, was on course at Whanganui along with a solid contingent of the Ownership Group – “That was a wonderful debut by our girl – things didn’t go all her way. She was a bit unsettled early in the run, but Michael (McNab) got her balanced, asked her for an effort turning for home, and although Hard Attack gave us a bit of a fright, in the end our girl did enough to win. It’s the first time she’s ever been off the bridle and she’d have learned a lot from that. It was a lovely ride by Michael and it’s why we put him on. He’s a professional and knows how to get the very best out of horses. Her work was really good leading into the trial on 2 August at Te Rapa, her jump outs have been very good also and she worked sensationally on Tuesday. So there was a lot of confidence in the camp. But of course they were all new, all on debut, and just hard to line up. She’s Karaka Million registered, probably now qualified for the race in January with the stake money from today, so we’ll just work backwards from that, give her a break and set her up for a couple of races leading into the KM.”

“Well done to Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson with how they have handled this Filly to date, she clearly has tons of ability, but they have nurtured her very well.”

BELLATRIX STAR – all action – closing stages

Stallion Star Witness (Starcraft) was a dominant winner of the Coolmore Stud Stakes (Gr. 1, 1200m) down the straight at Flemington, before becoming a successful sprint sire in Australia. His son Star Turn, winner of the Schillaci Stakes (Gr. 2, 1100m) is a very good young sire in Australia, while his fillies Global Glamour (Star Witness) was a dual Group One winner of the Flight Stakes and Caulfield Guineas, both at a mile, and Swift Witness won the Silver Shadow (Gr. 2, 1200m). Grand-sire of the filly, Starcraft (Soviet Star) is well known in New Zealand, winning two legs of the Group One Triple Crown at Hawkes Bay, winning Group One races in Australia, France, and England, and becoming a World Champion Turf Miler.

A satisfied Michael McNab salutes the judge on returning to scale on Bellatrix Star

Dam Alana’s Party is by Australian Champion Sire and leading broodmare sire Exceed and Excel (Danehill), who made a name for himself over two decades of world racing and breeding – just an extraordinary sire whose winners have numbered over 5000, 205 stakes winners, including 17 individual Group One winners. Grand-dam The Party Stand, by Stradbroke (Gr. 1, 1400m) winner Thorn Park (Spinning World), was an impressive winner from 1200m – 2000m, at her best around middle distances and included the N.Z. Stakes (Gr. 1, 2000m).

At the time of purchase, David Ellis said: “We had a good horse in the stable by Star Witness named Phantom Witness, that won his first two starts over 1200 metres and we probably didn’t see the best of him. It’s a rarity to find many fillies out of mares by the Champion Sire Exceed and Excel because breeders tend to keep them. This filly has a lot of Exceed and Excel about her and from a dam line that has proved itself at the top level.”

Bellatrix Star is raced by the Fortuna Bellatrix Star Syndicate, an ownership Group comprising 69 individuals from all parts of New Zealand and one from Australia with 13 of them being first time investors in a Fortuna Syndicate

Members of the Ownership Group enjoying that winning feeling

Bellatrix Star was strapped by Te Akau racing manager Reece Trumper.

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Fortuna Race Mare DANCARINA scores impressively at Avondale 6th September – her 3rd Career win

Published 7 September 2023

Continuing outstanding form for Te Akau Racing Stable and Fortuna Racing, Dancarina (5 m Sebring – Dance for Me, by Commands)richly deserved her victory in the $18,500 Rating 75 1200 metres on 6 September at Avondale. Performing solidly with two seconds and a third, before suffering a cardiac arrhythmia at her previous start, Dancarina bounced back in the best way possible to record her third win for owners in the Fortuna Dancarina Syndicate (Manager: John Galvin). The win provided the Te Akau trainers Mark Walker & Sam Bergerson with their third on the programme, following My Lips Are Sealed (Ace High) and Fon Memories (Eminent), each by emerging young sires, and fresh from a record-breaking 203 wins in 2022/23, the 10 wins inside a week has already propelled the new partnership to 20 winners since 1 August.

Ridden by stable apprentice Niranjan Parmar, claiming 2kgs, who is also reeling in the winners, Dancarina was caught on a limb in the early rush for positions before slotting in fourth and the talented mare quickened appreciably when asked to extend inside the 300m. On Heavy10 footing in the race sponsored by Magness Mighty Steam Train, she scored comfortably by half a length, running the 1200 metres in 1:16.9, and returned $7.20 & $2.80 on the NZ TAB tote.

Click HERE to see the race video replay

Dancarina – Victorious at Avondale 6th Sept 2023 – Niranjan Parmar aboard

“It was a good tough effort after working early in the race and another nice ride from Parmar, who is riding in such good form,” said Mark Walker.“We’ll have to see what the handicapper does with her in the way of rating points, as far as working out a campaign going forward, but in the back of our minds we feel that she’s a mare capable of getting black type. It’s always great to train winners for John Galvin and his Fortuna owners and they’ve been having a good run of late with five individual winners since 1st August, including the first two-year-old winner this season, Bellatrix Star, last Saturday at Wanganui.”

Dancarina is by top-class Australian two-year-old and Golden Slipper (Gr. 1, 1200m) winner Sebring (Danehill), sire of 129 stakes winners, among over 2300 wins, including 18 Group Ones, while dam Dance for Me (Commands) won twice to 1400 metres in Australia, from a good winning family that included third dam, Champion 2YO Filly in NZ, Ballroom Babe (Citidancer).

Fortuna Racing Director John Galvin was on course along with a solid group of Syndicate Members and commented after the race. “It’s been a year since she won last time, but she did have quite a few months off due to fetlock surgery and has been racing in great form but without winning since resuming – she did have the hiccup last time out at Te Rapa where the race day vet said she took a long time to recover after dropping out in the run home. She was absolutely fine on the Monday after she had raced at Te Rapa and it’s very pleasing to see her bounce back today – we had a really good turnout of owners to witness her performance. I did have some reservations about the track conditions and was not overly confident of her handling what was pretty testing ground, but knowing the tactics were to be positive from the gate was going to be helpful and she was either going to handle the ground or not. She did it nicely in the end and Parmar rode her with lovely judgement. Well done to Mark and Sam for producing this Mare in such great order”

DANCARINA with successful jockey Niranjan Parmar and connections celebrate victory

DANCARINA was acquired by David Ellis on behalf of Fortuna at the 2020 Magic Millions Gold Coast January Sale for A$100,000 from the draft of Widden Stud. She is raced by the Fortuna Dancarina Syndicate, an ownership group comprising 60 individuals.

Dancarina was strapped by Zoe Ashworth.

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Auckland Thoroughbred Racing announces a $3m Stakes “top up” over and above standard NZTR prizemonies

Auckland Thoroughbred Racing (ATR) has today confirmed that it will be contributing $3,094,000 into stakes for the season as part of its annual stakes announcement. Total stakes on offer for the Club’s 2023/24 season is $18,705,000. This figure sees stakes offered at a $25,000 minimum across all of ATR’s race meetings in the coming season. The amount, which is over and above New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing’s (NZTR) minimum of $17,000, continues the upward trajectory ATR committed to at the time of merger. Following the pleasing trend of last season, the figure is the highest minimum to have been offered by the Club, exceeding 2022/23’s figure of $20,000.

ATR chief executive officer Paul Wilcox says that in addition to the exciting installation of the StrathAyr track at Ellerslie, the Club remains committed to improving stakes in the Auckland area. “We are firmly focused on growing the industry and stakes increases remain a priority for us. We’ve set an ambitious goal of contributing $15 million to stakes at Ellerslie and Pukekohe Park within 5 years, giving us averages we’ve not seen or heard of in New Zealand racing,” Wilcox said. “This really is a journey for us, and we hope our all-important stakeholders – our owners, trainers and jockeys – have enjoyed the improvement in stakes at all levels while racing with ATR to date and today’s announcement continues to underline our commitment in this area.”

The $20.3 million stakes increase for New Zealand racing as a whole, announced by NZTR as a result of the Entain/TAB strategic partnership, created a real sense of optimism in the industry and Wilcox said that it is pleasing to offer further stakes increases in the Auckland area. “To offer a further uplift on top of the boost the industry has already received for the coming season creates a real sense of confidence in the future of racing in Auckland and beyond for our stakeholders,” he said. “We’ve made no secret of the fact that our new business model is designed to offer sustainable returns to the industry and whilst it may take time to see us ultimately reach the returns we’d like to see, we are heading in the right direction.”

The TAB Karaka Millions race meeting, already New Zealand’s richest race meeting with three races run for $1 million in stakes or above, will continue to be the glamour night of the industry with the Gr. 2 Westbury Classic (1400m) now run for $300,000, $125,000 more than the NZTR minimum. Likewise, the Gr.3 Brighthill Farm Yearlings Concorde Handicap (1200m) and Cambridge Stud Almanzor Trophy (1200m) will each be run for $225,000, $105,000 more than the NZTR minimum.
Wilcox is quick to emphasise however that, whilst ATR’s black-type races have all seen significant increases, the Club has also considered the full spectrum of races when setting stakes for the coming season.

“Whilst it’s pleasing to announce that our Group One races will now be run for $450,000 and our Listed races run for at least $100,000, it’s also important to highlight that our stakes increase formula saw races at all levels achieve an uplift. As an example, all races run at industry non-peak racedays will have minimum stakes of $25,000, better allowing those grassroots participants to continue to enjoy the game.”

ATR plans to conduct 20 race meetings over the 2023/24 season from both Pukekohe Park and Ellerslie, with racing’s headquarters set to return in 2024.
To view the full breakdown of ATR’s stakes for the 2023/24 season, click here.

John comments – “Obviously this is a very welcome and significant announcement which adds another layer of confidence to the growing feeling of positivity that permeates NZ Racing at the present time. Readers may be curious as to where the $3m extra funding comes from? The answer to that is the former Auckland Racing Club had assiduously built up an investment fund over the past few years from asset sales – and now this fund (which totals $60m approx) is invested in income producing growth assets (shares and property) and as a result Auckland Thoroughbred Racing is able to allocate income from this portfolio to enhance Stakes. Further good news on this is that upcoming asset sales (such as the famed Ellerslie Hill) will further boost the investment fund to an estimated $250m approx. – so watch this space for further Stakes enhancement news from ATR”

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Guest Selector

Guest Selector Gary Williams has an “off day” last week – his disappointment tempered somewhat by the success of Fortuna’s Bellatrix Star at Whanganui, in which he has a share!!!

Here is what Gary says this week;

Hi John and Team, It was a tough watch last week and its been hard this week at the Dinner table….Sardines on water crackers after trips to the food bank!!

Thankfully it’s Group 1 day at the Bay and such fond memories of Starcraft, Xcellent, Seachange and of course, Melody Belle, who won the race twice. The Tarzino is a class field but Dragon Leap [ $7 /$2.50] is in top form and is my top pick . Must be in the finish and looks the quinella with Legarto who is quite short, even for an Aussie Guineas winner.

Winnings can be boosted quickly with White Noise in race 10. The grey ticks a lot of boxes and gets a handy weight claim and @ $3.20 he’s been noticed

In the earlier races Fashion Shoot [race 6] looks a strong chance at $5.50 / $2.50. And in race 7, Slipper Island [ $7.50/ $2.50 ] should be longer on the tote and looks well placed.

Hopefully I have selected at least one winner from the above

Cheers,

Gary W

Uncategorized

BELLATRIX STAR – all action – closing stages – Wanganui 2nd September 2023

Fortuna Friday Flash – 20 October 2023

RUBICON CROSSING – Winning at Mornington 30th September 2023 – Harry Coffey aboard

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Fortuna Racing’s KNIPPENBERG wins again in Singapore – his 3rd win from 9 race day starts

RUBICON CROSSING – Winning at Mornington 30th September 2023

Harry Coffey aboard

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RUBICON CROSSING – Winning at Mornington 30th September 2023 – Harry Coffey aboard

Fortuna Two Year Old Filly, BELLATRIX STAR, shines brightly with winning debut Whanganui 2nd September 2023

BELLATRIX STAR – wins on debut – Wanganui 2nd September 2023 Michael McNab aboard (picture by Race Images)

BELLATRIX STAR – all action – closing stages

Fortuna Race Mare DANCARINA scores impressively at Avondale 6th September – her 3rd Career win

Dancarina – Victorious at Avondale 6th Sept 2023 – Niranjan Parmar aboard

BELLATRIX STAR – wins on debut – Wanganui 2nd September 2023
Michael McNab aboard (picture by Race Images)