Te Akau Racing appoints Ben Gleeson as Assistant Trainer to Mark Walker – Cranbourne operation

Melody Belle’s 4yo half brother by Tavistock, Cavalry, previously known as Tutukaka, contests the Singapore Derby this Sunday 23rd for his new connections.

Fortuna has three runners on Sunday, all in Singapore

Singapore

KNIPPENBERG races in the Class 4 1200 Turf event – Race 4 @1.30 Singapore time (5.30pm NZ Time) with Singapore’s leading rider, Manoel Nunes to take the mount from a mid field draw. The race record of this classy 3yo says it all – 5 starts, 2 wins, a 2^nd and a 4^th in a Group 3 event. Has been freshened since his last start win in May, won a trial in quick time 12^th July. Meets older horses for the first time in this event, but has enough class to cope. Strong each way chance and can win

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

1st Pick: KNIPPENBERG (2)
Impressive winner at Novice level back in May and has since had a nice trial where he clocked 60.58. He has been mixing it with some our best young horses and looks set to mix it against an older field.
2nd Pick: CITY GOLD STAR (1)
Stable is going well in recent weeks and this gelding has mixed it on both turf and Polytrack surfaces. Liked his trial two weeks back and comes into this a leading chance.
3rd Pick: DANCING SUPREMO (4)
Has bounced between trainers back in Australia where he raced as ‘Nations Pride’. Has the one win to his name at 1400m at Werribee on a heavy surface. Watch betting.
4th Pick: DR KARDO (10)
Has been settling more up on the pace in recent starts and with a lightweight he can be a key player. One for the multiples.

RHETT BUTLER races in the Group 3 Golden Horseshoe for 2yos 1200 Turf event – Race 6 @2.30 Singapore time (6.30pm NZ Time) with Singapore’s 2022 Champion Apprentice, Fadzli Yusoff to ride from an outside draw. A highly impressive winner on debut, RHETT BUTLER then ran a close up 5^th against older horses late May. Has been freshened since. Meets a talented field of 2yo’s here and has a difficult barrier draw to overcome. Look for him to go back from the draw and be storming home at the finish. Needs luck but if he gets it, can feature in the finish

ENTERTAINER races in the Class 3 1200 Turf event – Race 12 @5.40 Singapore time (9.40pm NZ Time) with Fadzli Yusoff to ride from a wide draw. Has run two close up 4^th placings this surface and trip last two starts. Needs luck from draw but if he can fly the gates and get a soft lead, could secure some of the prizemoney

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday 18 July

Ragamuffin (J Allen) worked over an easy 1000 metres in 1.13.3, home in 41.7.

Angels Wings (J Allen) worked at three quarter pace over 1000 metres, quickening over the last 600 to finish in 39.4.

Marlborough Bay (R Sheehan) and Aotea Lad (W Kennedy) galloped over 1200 metres in 1.18.7, home in 38.1.

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday 15th July

ROCKY (JAMIL)800/600-37.6; RHETT BUTLER (ASLAM)800/600-37.6; ENTERTAINER (ASLAM)1000/600-38.5

Tuesday 18^th July

RHETT BUTLER(YUSOFF)800/600-38; KNIPPENBERG(ASLAM)800/600-37.5

Other News

Fortuna 2yo RHETT BUTLER to contest the Group 3 Golden Horseshoe in Singapore 23^rd July
 
Exciting time for connections of 2yo RHETT BUTLER (Charm Spirit – Thurlow) as he takes his place in the field of this prestigious event for 2yo’s at Singapore’s Kranji Racecourse. Acuired by Fortuna Racing and Donna Logan for A$80k at the Inglis Ready to Race sale (Sydney) in October 2022, he was transported to Singapore and won on debut in Restricted Maiden Grade 29^th April with a barnstorming finish from near last on the turn. He stepped up to Novice Grade at his 2^nd start, running a meritable 5^th after not getting all favours. Freshened since, his work has been strong and he is ready for this event. A big strong type who tips the scales at 530kgs, he meets a talented field of 2yo’s here and has a very wide barrier draw to overcome. To be ridden by Stable Apprentice, Fadzli Yusoff, race tactics will be to let the speed go, settle in behind somewhere and then look to finish over the top of them.

John and Jessica are attending this meeting and will be hosting a party of 18 clients (many of whom are in Rhett) in one of the Corporate Suites. Some of these clients are local but others are also traveling from NZ, Australia and Malaysia to attend. Two other runners on the day are Knippenberg and Entertainer

Te Akau Racing appoints Ben Gleeson as Assistant Trainer to Mark Walker – Cranbourne operation

Te Akau Racing are delighted to confirm that Victorian Ben Gleeson has been appointed as Assistant Trainer for Te Akau Racing Australia, the stable to be based at Cranbourne, Victoria.

“I am very proud to welcome Ben to the Te Akau team.  His appointment as Assistant Trainer for our new Australian operation is a key one and he brings an outstanding CV to the role, rich in Australian and international experience,” said David Ellis CNZM. “Ben knows the Australian racing environment like the back of his hand, everything he does is with a huge degree of professionalism and energy.  I know he will be a major asset to our new stable.”

Concluding five years in the same role to Danny O’Brien at Flemington, Barwon Heads and Geelong, Ben comes from a racing and breeding family. He graduated with a Bachelor in Business Management from La Trobe University, Melbourne, and has worked for top trainers, including a European racing experience while working in the United Kingdom.

Yearling Filly by Eminent – QUEEN CONSORT – Back in full work at Matamata after a nice spell at Te Akau Stud, she is now being prepared by Mark Walker for a late August trial – shares available @ $1476 per each 1% and $44 per month from 1 August – Click HERE to see full details of this lovely staying type Filly

Two Year Old Colt by Mastercraftsman out of the High Chaparral Mare, Trikala – “Frankie” – acquired at the Tattersalls 2yo Sale in Ireland, “Frankie” is now in full training with Harry Eustace at Newmarket being prepared for his debut 2yo start 1 November – shares available @ $1000 per each 1% and $44 per month from 1 August – Click HERE to see full details of this handsome Colt with a beautiful staying pedigree

Guest Selector  – Craig Carter

Slipper Island, Craig’s selection last week, got too far back in the running, finished off strongly but not in the placings – Here is what Craig says this week

Hi John and the Fortuna Team – Back to the drawing boards this week after last weeks selection got way to far back and was running home well but too late to feature. This week is again tricky as the rain looks to show its self and make the tracks very testing. So I have decided to look at Rosehill Race 6 – Acappella Sun, who is in a purple patch of form and always hits the line hard. Has the services of Amy McLucas who is an up and coming apprentice and has ridden this daughter of Sebring Sun the last few starts so knows the horse well.

Is paying $7 / $2.40 on fixed odds so like last week 2 over 3 for every $5 should reap some good returns.

All the best – Craig

 Martin Devlin  Speaks Out

2yo Colt “Frankie” commences training at Newmarket in the UK

Fortuna has three runners on Saturday, two in NZ and one in Singapore

New Zealand

Ruakaka

DANCARINA runs in the R75 1200m event – Race 3 @1.35 with Michael McNab to ride from an inside barrier. Has run with merit in two recent starts at Ruakaka since resuming for a 3^rd and a 2^nd. Talented at best, she is running into form nicely and can take this out – showing $3.30/ $1.40 on fixed odds

Trentham

BEAU GESTE contests the R65 2100 Duke Of Gloucester Cp for amateur riders  – Race 5 @ 1.18pm with Sameer Mohammed to ride from the ace barrier barrier. Being prepared for jumping events after this, he has had one resuming run on the flat over 1600m at Woodville – this after 13 months away from the track due to a slight tendon strain. Has flat racing credentials but may need this run – showing $13/$4 fixed odds

Singapore

ELLIOT NESS races in the Class 5 1100 Poly event – Race 1 @12 noon Singapore time (4pm NZ Time) with Fadzlin Yusoff to ride with a 2kg claim. Holds the Track record this trip and surface, but his form recent starts has been moderate. Drops in grade here however and his most recent win was when he dropped to Class 5 last time. Has a wide barrier draw to overcome, so will need some luck in running, but if he gets it, he can run into the money

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

1st Pick: OPUNAKE (4)
In a race littered with class droppers, this Jason Ong trained galloper looks the pick off his last run where he qualified for class 5 but stayed up in class 4 and went down a slim margin to Time Travel in slick time.
2nd Pick: DOC HUDSON (1)
The second of the runners for AP Tan in this race who makes his class 5 debut after a solid first up performance up in class 4 to only go down by 3.4 lengths, big chance.
3rd Pick: ELLIOT NESS (2)
Back down to class 5 for the first time in a while and off recent form, the drop down will be welcomed. Hopefully amongst this company he can find some form which we couldn’t see of late at the bottom of class 4. Can place here but needs to lift.
4th Pick: FLAK JACKET (3)
The old boy finds himself back to class 5 again and finally draws a gate for once in his life. Amongst class 5 company he is always a chance and is proven to carry weight, you would be silly to leave him out of the numbers and quartet plays.

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Wednesday 12th July
Dancarina (N Parmar) galloped over 1000 metres in 1.06.8, last 600 in 38.1.

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday 8th July

RHETT BUTLER (ASLAM)1000/600-39; ELLIOT NESS (YUSOFF)1000/600-38; KNIPPENBERG (ASLAM)1000/600-38;; ENTERTAINER(JAMIL)1000/600-38;

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Other News
 
NAVALHA scores his 4^th career win – Awapuni Synthetic

A winner at Riccarton in the spring, Navalha (5 g Sebring – Afiado, by Encosta de Lago) returned to his best form for victory in the $14,000 Carters “Trade Leaders Now Online” Rating 65 1700 metres on 7 July on the Awapuni Synthetic track. After struggling a bit for form on wet turf tracks recently, the decision was made to try him on the Synthetic surface 16th July  in the Rating 65 1400 metres, where he put in a strong finishing performance for 2nd. Up in trip to 1700m this time Navalha  travelled well for rider Michael McNab in the early running, improved his position to three back inner nearing the 600m turning for home and once sighting daylight he burst through to record a compelling victory.

It was patient handling by the current Champion jockey Jockey, recording his 150th win for the season and set to retain his title again this season, while the manner of victory suggested Navalha had advanced nicely for his last start effort.

“It’s good that he’s handling the poly-track surface so well and it’s always good to win races for Fortuna Racing, who are great supporters of the stable, and I think he’s got more wins in him too,” said trainer Mark Walker, who claimed another victory (195^th) in a record-breaking season. “It was a lovely ride by Michael who is riding at the top of his game.”

The 2yo Colt by Mastercraftsman out of Trikala  -“Frankie”

Pedigree
This Colt is by that wonderful Sire of genuine middle distance/staying types, the late Mastercraftsman (by Danehill Dancer) – the winner of seven races including the Irish 2000 Guineas. Mastercraftsman is the Sire of 930 winners, including 96 Stakes winners. A truly International Stallion, he shuttled to Windsor Park Stud and his stakes winners in this part of the world include Danzdanzdance, The Auld Floozie, St Emilion and Valley Girl. Our Colt is out of a High Chaparral Mare, Trikala, who had several placings in her racing career and has left a winner already in Trolius (by Cape Cross) who has won 4 times in the UK and the UAE.  This is a pedigree page which contains significant black type.

Click HERE to view this Colt’s pedigree

Physical type
Standing 16 hands high and with a weight of 500kgs approximately, “Frankie” is a handsome bay, who walks well, has no vices and has a powerful galloping action. He was fully vetted by the Irish based  Vet, Dr Thomas Hore, who passed him as suitable as a racing proposition.
Click HERE to see his breeze up at the Goresbridge Sale
Click HERE to see his parade at the Goresbridge Sale
Click HERE to see him parade at Newmarket with voice over from Trainer Harry Eustace

Preparation to date
This Colt was broken in as a Yearling, then given a good spell ahead of a light preparation before being presented for Sale at Goresbridge.

Racing Plans
“Frankie” has come into work 1st July andwill  be prepared for an Autumn Two Year Old campaign with the aim of having two or three races October/November 2022. He would then spell over the winter months of December/January and come back into work 1st February to be prepared for his Three Year Old Season (he turns three on 1 January 2024) –  obvious targets for him would be the UK and Irish 2000 Guineas events, both run in May of 2024 and the Epsom Derby or Irish Derby run in June 2024 and there are a number of lead up races for these event which enable the Trainers of promising 3yo types to assess whether their charges are genuine Guineas/Derby prospects and If not, there are a number of sideways options that can be pursued. In September/October 2024 (when he will be an Autumn 3yo)  we will review his form and results and if we consider him to be a suitable type for Australian/NZ Racing, we will transport him to Victoria where he will join Mark Walker’s Te Akau Racing Stables at Cranbourne

Trainer’s view (Harry Eustace)
“John, Hubie and I are delighted to have acquired this Mastercraftman Colt for you.  I was not at the sale, so did not lay my eyes on him until he arrived at my yard. He is a handsome, athletic type who walks very well. I have reviewed his breeze up gallop and he has a nice strong action. I am very excited to be able to train him for your Ownership Group and am looking forward to bringing him into work around 1st July.”

Syndicator’s view (John Galvin)
“Over the last six years we have selected four Irish/UK bred staying types as “tried horses”, Chance to Dance, Leaderboard, Khafeef and No Envy and all have won for us – I love the staying prowess of these types of horses. We did buy a 2yo Churchill Colt (My Finest Hour) in 2022 at a similar sale – he was also sent to Harry to train, but unfortunately he suffered a tendon injury just before making his race day debut. However undeterred by that setback we have gone back to the well and come up with this fellow. My assessment of this Colt is that he is a lovely looking horse, very athletic, strong staying pedigree and we secured him “under budget – he looks to be a very fine prospect for us.”

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Guest Selector  – Craig Carter
 
Craig didn’t get out of the starting gates last week with his selection being withdrawn – here is what he selects this week

Hi John and the Fortuna Team – Well not a great start or a false start maybe with my selection Russian Satire last week being scratched. Watch out for when he does line up next but maybe they decided it was going to be too heavy at Te Rapa last Saturday.

This week I have turned my attention to Ruakaka and a nice 3 year old colt from Tony Pikes barn having its first start for this campaign.

 My selection is Slipper Island in Race 6 with the Michael McNab aboard. This horse ran some very good races as a 2 year old and against some of the best around and now a year older and stronger finds a very winnable race to start off. He has had 2 trials to prepare, one which he won and the other a very comfortable 2^nd.

Early fixed odds have him at $3.50 / $1.65 so well worth an each way bet of 2 over 3 for every $5 invested.

All the best – Craig

Fortuna has three runners Friday and Saturday – two in NZ, one in Singapore

New Zealand

Awapuni Synthetic – Friday

RAGAMUFFUN runs in the R65 1200m event – Race 4 @1.59 with Jonathan  Riddell to ride from an inside barrier. Has had 4 runs back off a long break after knee surgery and has been running well but striking very heavy tracks in his last 3 starts. Accordingly he now gets his chance on the better surface of the Awapuni Synthetic. Won 2 of his first 4 race day starts so has ability and represents an each way chance here @$6.50/$2.40

NAVALHA contests the R65 1700m event – Race 8 @ 4.12pm with Michael McNab to ride from a good barrier. Impressed on this surface 16^th June 1400m running 2^nd off a wide barrier draw. Gets an inside draw here, goes up in distance which will suit and has the services of NZ’s leading rider – has 60kgs to carry but if he does so successfully, he can win here – showing $2.50/$1.30 fixed odds

Singapore – Saturday
ROCKY races in the Class 4 1600 Poly event – Race 6 @2.30pm Singapore time (6.30pm NZ Time) with N Zyrul to ride with a 2kg claim. Has raced this trip and surface in last two starts and been ridden wide each time, beaten just 1.7 lengths last start. Change of rider will see a more groundsaving run and if he gets it will be very competitive – each way

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

No timed Fortuna trackwork this week

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday 1^st July

KNIPPENBERG(ASLAM)1000/600-38.5; RHETT BUTLER(ASLAM)1000/600-39 ROCKY(YUSOFF)1000/600-38;

Tuesday 4^th July

RHETT BUTLER(ASLAM)1000600-38;  ROCKY(ZYRUL)800/600-40

Wednesday 5^th July

ENTERTAINER (JAMIL)800/600- 39; ELLOT NESS(YUSOFF)800/600- 39;

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Other News

Fleet Footed arrives in Victoria to commence pre training

Fleet Footed has arrived at Widden Stud where he will have a pre training regime in the hands of the very experienced pre training specialist, Matt Upton, based at Widden Stud. Matt will bring Fleet Footed along quietly and he will be one of the first horses to enter Mark Walker/ Te Akau Racing new training facility at Cranbourne when it opens the doors 1^st September.

At that point Fleet Footed, all having gone well, will be very close to trial stage fitness, he will trial soon after and we can get him to his race day debut. Fleet Footed was a A$550k yearling acquired by NewGate/China Horse Club as a Stallion prospect, but proving very Colty, he was offered for sale by them after he trialed at Warwick Farm in April and we were able to acquire him for just A$50k. Incidentally, in that April trial, he was beaten just under a length by King Colorado, who a few weeks later won the Group One JJ Atkins Stakes at Eagle Farm.

Click HERE to see Fleet Footed parading for Matt Wednesday 5^th July

There are still shares available in Fleet Footed at NZ$1100 per each 1% share and $44 per month from 1 September. Full details can be seen at the link on the Fortuna website HERE

More good news in New Zealand as a further $30 million injection of funding to the racing codes is announced by the TAB:

TAB New Zealand has announced its direct funding to the domestic racing industry will reach a record-setting $215 million for the upcoming 2023/24 racing season. TAB NZ’s direct funding of racing is made up of a distribution payment to Racing New Zealand, the application of class 4 gaming proceeds to the Racing Authorised Purpose, and funding of the independent Racing Integrity Board. The announcement sees a further $30 million made available to the three racing codes in addition to the increases determined at the time the Minister for Racing, Hon Kieran McAnulty, approved TAB NZ’s strategic partnering arrangement with Entain.

Nick Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of TAB NZ, said the Entain partnership is a revolutionary moment for racing and one that will deliver the ultimate goal of a long-term, sustainable racing industry. “TAB NZ recognises bold funding decisions are required to sustain this storied industry for generations to come,” Mr Roberts says. “Leadership across the industry must own the moment and deliver a right-sized industry, with the best animal welfare standards, and a compelling customer product. This extra injection will deliver the best outcomes if it is targeted towards those types of initiatives that enhance the industry in the long run. Simply increasing the funding of the status quo is not sustainable.”

The increased funding comes from an additional $15 million being added to the TAB NZ distribution to Racing NZ for the 2023/24 racing season, raising it to $185 million – a $60 million increase, almost 50%, on the current season’s distribution of $125 million.
Additionally, TAB NZ has determined that it will no longer fund the Racing Integrity Board from its class 4 gaming operation which will allow a contestable fund of $15 million for applications under TAB NZ’s Racing Authorised Purpose.

“We’re keen to back those that are in relentless pursuit of sustainable outcomes – and we expect that will be a key consideration when determining future funding applications,” Mr Roberts says. “A month into the partnership with Entain, we are deeply encouraged by some of the announcements we have seen out of the industry – especially New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing’s Strategic Funding Document announced two weeks ago.”

Guest Selector  – Craig Carter

Craig says;

Hi John and the Fortuna Team – Thank you for the opportunity to be the guest selector over the next few weeks.

Is it just me or are you sick of the rain. When looking at tracks around NZ it seems to be how heavy will it be at each meeting which is making punting a bit of a guessing game.With more rain predicted for this Friday and Saturday this weekend will be no different and I tossed up between a horse I have made a few dollars off in the past at Awapuni – She’s So Reliable in Race 6 or a horse at Te Rapa I have been following and believe will handle the very heavy track that Te Rapa will produce.

I have settled on Russian Satire in race 7. This 3 year old daughter of impressive stallion Russian Revolution started this campaign with an emphatic win by 6.5 lengths on this track back in May then has had no luck in its next two starts.  One with a slipped saddle then the next racing very wide and pushed back on the turn when she was trying to get closer. Up jumps Michael McNab and I think this combination will be very hard to beat and think Michael will present her with the opportunity to win. Fixed odds are $4.50 / $1.90 which I think are extremely generous but expect them to be shorter closer to the start time.

Good Luck
Craig
 

Planned closure of Singapore racing reverberates around the racing world

Fortuna has two runners this weekend – one in NZ, one in Singapore
 
New Zealand

Ruakaka – Saturday

DANCARINA contests the R75 1100m event – Race 3 @1.15 with Joe Kamaruddin to ride. This lightly raced 4yo with just 7 career starts to her name was last seem at Riccarton in November and has since had knee surgery and a period of rehabilitation. Was a strong trial winner at Waipa 26^th May 1150m, leading start to finish and never off the bridle. Talented galloper who has won on the track and represents a strong each way chance here – showing $6/$2.30 Fixed Odds

Singapore

TRIDENT runs in the Group 3 Silver Bowl over 1400m – the 1^st leg of the Singapore Triple Crown for 4yo’s – race 11  @ 5pm Sing time (9pm NZT) and will be ridden by the evergreen Benny Woodworth from the ace draw. This 4yo son of Deep Field has a strong record in Singapore with 3 wins, 3 2nds and a 3^rd from 11 race day starts – notable that all 3 wins have come at 1400m. Meets a strong field here and won’t find it easy, but has the ace draw and an astute rider aboard. Can feature in the finish here at odds

Fortuna Track work – Matamata
 
No Fortuna timed trackwork this week

Fortuna Track work – Singapore
 
Saturday 3^rd June

TRIDENT (YUSOFF)1000/600-;38

Tuesday 6^th June

TRIDENT (YUSOFF)800/600-39;

Other News

Opie Bosson awarded the NZ Order of Merit in King’s Birthday Honours list

In a week of significant breaking news with major announcements out of Singapore and with Te Akau’s planned expansion into Australia it was also delightful to read the news that Opie Bosson had been made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit – certainly a very well deserved honour indeed for the Champion rider.

Opie and I have a two decade long association – he rode his first winner for me in October 2003 on the 2yo Kapsdan and I have lost count of how many winners since, although he rode Melody Belle to win 6 of her 14 Group One wins and his most recent winner for us was on Angel’s Wings at Cambridge 29^th May.

Click HERE and HERE to read two great stories from the Te Akau website on the Champion rider

Planned closure of Singapore racing reverberates around the racing world
 
Shock, disbelief, incredulity and anger have been the principal reactions from virtually every corner of the racing world to this week’s announcement that the Singapore Government has made a decision to end almost two centuries of a proud Thoroughbred Racing tradition in the Lion City.  On so many fronts it just does not make any sense and the impact it has had on all of the participants in Singapore Racing, be they Trainers, Riders, Stable Staff, Owners, Turf Club staff and their families is deep and far reaching. Race Club closures are of course not uncommon but for a Government to unilaterally close down a whole recreational/sporting operation without any dialogue or communication with its participants is unprecedented – the closest analogy anyone can seem to find is when the Communist Party took over China in 1949, they closed racing down and shot 3000 horses!!!

Notable that when the CEO of the Singapore Turf Club made the announcement at a Trainers meeting, she said she would only take 3 questions – and she was true to her word on that, taking the 3 and then walking out of the room!!!

Over the past few days, we have been inundated with messages of sympathy and concern from so many of our clients and we thank those of you who have done so. Many of you have enquired about Donna Logan and what her plans will be. Donna and I have spoken several times during the week – Donna and her husband Peter Woods are real troopers of course and as the news broke their very first thought was not of themselves, but their hard working and loyal staff – they immediately called a staff meeting and endeavoured to reassure their staff, that despite the announced closure, it was going to be “business as usual” in terms of racing and training activity, that they all had ongoing responsibility for their equine charges and that they (Donna and Peter) would be the last to leave and would turn the lights out as they left!!!

For the record, Donna tells me she has had several offers from various parties and jurisdictions to extend her training career, which is heartening, but for now she and Peter have a sole focus which is to manage the Singapore situation as best they can between now and the planned closure in October 2024.

From a Fortuna Racing perspective, while it has been a huge shock, we are doing OK. We have loved our time racing in Singapore since 2010 and it has bought so many of our clients so much pleasure, particularly on the prize money front. From a personal perspective, I have been an entrepreneur and risk taker for most of my working life and have been fortunate enough to have had many “wins” but have also had to deal with the occasional “hiding” from time to time, have learned to “roll with the punches” and so Jessica and I are taking this massive blow on the chin.

And so now it is time to focus on the task at hand and that is to manage the racing futures of our Singapore based horses in the very best interest of their Ownership Groups. Over the next few days, we will be putting out individual updates to each syndicate on how we see an ongoing plan for each syndicate horse. The Turf Club have announced a S$700 per month subsidy for each horse from now through to their departure from Singapore – these subsidies will come off the training bill and they have also announced that they will fund 90% of the “exportation” cost of each horse to any jurisdiction in the world as from October 2024. While we would prefer not to be in this situation, these subsidies will play an important role in our management process.

Guest Selector  – Mayne Bax

Mayne is going well after two weeks in the role – no outright winner as yet, but two good placings and I calculate that those who have outlaid the 1 unit to win, 3 units a place on Mayne’s two selections have collected 13.5 units for their 8 unit outlay

This week Mayne is heading to Ruakaka, race 8 no 3 Deep Beauty. This 6yo son of Deep Field does not win out of turn with just 2 wins from 28 starts, but has run in the first four 14 times. Hie last start on the synthetic was a bit of a shocker but prior to that his form was very consistent. Trained by an astute training team (James/Wellwood) he gets a nice draw (4) and Kozzi Asano takes the ride – has won at the trip and gets a surface to suit. Showing good each way value at $5.50/2.10 fixed odds. Mayne says “stick with the 1 unit to win/ 3 units a place strategy”

KNIPPENBERG wins for us again in Singapore 20^th May

TAB/ENTAIN partnership deal approved by the Minister of Racing
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Fortuna has four runners this Saturday – one in NZ, three in Singapore
 
New Zealand – Trentham

KHAFEEF contests the Maiden Steeplechase – Race 1 @ 11.22am with Shaun Fannin to ride. Dominant last start winner at Hawera in a Hurdles event, he goes to the big fences for the first time on the Trentham figure eight course. Myers stable says he is the best jumper in the stable and the TAB bookies are not taking any risks with a $1.55 quote!!! If he jumps safely will be hard to beat.

Singapore

ROCKY runs in the Class 4 1600 Poly  – race 8  @ 3.30pm Sing time (7.30pm NZT) and will be ridden by Stable Apprentice, Fadzli Yusoff, claiming 2kgs, from Barrier 6. Failed badly last start on a slippery Turf track, but now back to the Poly where he has had 8 starts for 2 wins and 6 minor placings – is stepping up to the 1600m for the first time. Trainer Donna Logan is sure he is ready for the step up in trip but also concedes that it is a bit of an experiment. If he runs out the Mile, he can feature in the finish

ENTERTAINER runs in the Class 3 1200 Turf  – race 10 @ 4.30pm Sing time (8.30pm NZT) and will be ridden by Craig Grylls (who is riding in Singapore for Guineas Day) from barrier 2. Encouraging performance last start after a run of poor form but is an eight time winner in Singapore – now rated on 69 he has got to a dangerous place in the ratings – note that he ran a close up 2^nd this trip and surface in August 2022 off a 75 rating. Needs to be taken on trust, but has a great draw and a busy, talented rider aboard – can feature at odds

ELLIOT NESS contests the Class 4 1200 Poly  – race 12 @ 5.35pm Sing time (9.35pm NZT) and will be ridden by Stable Apprentice, Fadzli Yusoff, claiming 2kgs, from Barrier 6. Slightly disappointing last time when fading closing stages 1100m – previous form was good. Has to run 1200m here, but is a speedy type. Top three chance

Fortuna Track work – Matamata
 
Tuesday 23^rd May

Navalha (T Wenn) galloped over an easy 1200 metres in 1.20.2, final 600 in 38.1.
Angels Wings (J Kamaruddin) galloped over 1000 metres in 1.05.7, home in 37.9.

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday 20th May

ELLIOT NESS (ASLAM)1000/600-38;; ENTERTAINER (YUSOFF)1000/600-39

Tuesday 23rd May

ROCKY (ASLAM)800/60039-; ENTERTAINER (YUSOFF)800/600-39;

Other News

KNIPPENBERG wins for us again in Singapore 20^th May – John was on track hosting local Singapore based clients

KNIPPENBERG, the three year old gelding by I Am Invincible out of Red Fez, produced an outstanding performance in the Novice 1200 Turf event for prizemoney of S$75,000 in the hands of the regular race day rider Ronnie Stewart. Race day tactics for KNIPPENBERG, given his good barrier, was finish up in the box seat one out from the rail. As it turned out he finished up one back but on the rail. Traveling beautifully in the run, Stewart had a lapful of horse as they turned for home but was stuck in behind the two leaders with nowhere to go. Resisting the temptation to come off heels and go to the outside, Stewart demonstrated the patience of Job, waiting and waiting for the gap to appear. Eventually it did come but paper thin and both horse and rider exhibited great courage to push through the narrow gap on the rails and once through, KNIPPENBERG surged away, going to the line clear by 1.5 lengths in the smart time of 1.09.54 for the 1200m trip.

This victory was a great result for the Gelding’s connections as Fortuna Director John Galvin, who had traveled to Singapore from his home in New Zealand, to watch his charge storm to victory, explains. “Knippenberg won impressively in Restricted Maiden Grade on debut 29th January, then ran an unlucky 2nd in Novice Grade at his next start. He was then set for the 3yo Sprint, the first leg of the 3yo Series over 1200m – drawn the outside barrier, he stormed home for a 4th placing. Stepping up to 14oo in the 3yo Classic, he was sent out favourite, had a beautiful run, went up to win but failed to run out the trip. Donna Logan and I then made the decision to bypass the Singapore Guineas over 1600m, deciding to step him back to the Novice 1200 instead. Donna hardly did anything with him in the intervening two weeks and he was presented in great order for the 1200m and duly obliged, assisted by a heroic ride from Ronnie Stewart. Well done to Donna and her team for getting us this great result.”

Click HERE to see the race replay – Click HERE to see the head on replay  

Knippenberg’s Trainer, Donna Logan of Te Akau Racing Stables, was very pleased with the result. “ I have always thought a bit of this horse, he has a lot of ability. We had to make the decision after his slightly disappointing run in the 3yo Classic as to whether to press onto the Guineas or go back to Novice Grade over 1200om. The latter was my instinct and big kudos to John Galvin of Fortuna Racing for supporting that decision”

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 twice and had two minor placings from five race day starts and has accumulated just under S$100k in stakes monies

TAB/ENTAIN partnership deal approved by the Minister of Racing
 
We have been waiting for this for a long time – 1^st June is the start date – can this be a fresh dawn for our beleaguered NZ Racing scene – see the news release below from NZ Racing Desk

Minister for Racing Kieran McAnulty has announced the approval of a 25-year partnership between TAB NZ and UK betting company Entain that delivers at least $900 million in guaranteed funding for the racing industry over the next five years.

Entain, a UK based group that operates multiple sports betting providers globally, will use their economies of scale and significant technology and capital capabilities to deliver TAB NZ’s betting, wagering and broadcast operations”

“This is one of the most significant days in New Zealand racing history. This deal will reverse falling revenues for racing and provides certainty over the coming years,” Kieran McAnulty said. “I’m confident this agreement will help secure a solid future for the racing industry and sports in New Zealand through increased financial distributions to national sports organisations. TAB NZ has been facing increasing financial challenges over recent years and was facing an uncertain future, largely due to competition from offshore gambling websites”

“The Agreement provides an upfront payment of $150 million upon approval of the agreement. In addition to this there will be a 50% revenue share from day-1 with guaranteed payments of at least $150 million per year for the first five years. This partnership will also allow TAB NZ to use Entain’s expertise and economies of scale to make necessary upgrades and invest extensively in infrastructure and technology. It will be an improved offering for customers.

“Our racing industry is worth $1.6 billion to the economy and directly employs 14,000 New Zealanders. It’s reliant on TAB NZ distributions, and if they were allowed to fall that would hit the industry hard and jobs and revenue lost. It’s important this deal assists in reducing gambling harm. As such I’ve received confirmation from TAB NZ of a $5 million allocation for harm minimisation measures upon approval of the agreement.

“Entain has better harm minimisation technologies, such as facial recognition tools that can be rolled out in TAB venues. The partnership between TAB NZ and Entain does not prevent the Government from putting in place further harm minimisation regulation, and I have been clear with TAB NZ that I intend to do so.

“I am also pleased to announce that Cabinet has decided an in-principle agreement to extend TAB NZ’s monopoly for sports and racing betting to the online environment, subject to further work being done. The TAB was set up as a monopoly to fund New Zealand racing and sports. But the onset of unregulated online gambling changed the game and our racing and sports industry has been losing money ever since. Regulating this environment offers a significant new revenue source for local racing and sport, while also addressing the inherent risks in unregulated online gambling. By prohibiting online gambling outside of the TAB the Government can place greater controls over the betting environment. We would expect to also see much more money allocated to harm minimisation, a fairer deal for Kiwi punters and sports codes and a greater focus on animal welfare,” McAnulty said. – NZ Racing Desk

Shares For Sale

The Karaka Sale Yearling Fillies

Still a few shares left in each of these three lovely Fillies – all have been broken in and completed their first stable prep. Click HERE to read details from the Fortuna website on these three Fillies

The Star Witness – Alana’s Party filly, “Ali”, who is very forward, is now back in work in her 2nd Stable Prep and is being aimed at one of the early season trials and looks like being an early 2yo runner

Secondary Market Sale – ENTERTAINER

A 3% share in the 6yo Singapore based galloper, ENTERTAINER, has become available for the sum of NZ$432 and $108 per month from 1 June. Note that Entertainer runs this Saturday 27^th May and if you confirm a purchase and make payment by close of business Friday, you will be on the Ownership register for that race.

ENTERTAINER (Zoustar-Laughing) is an eight time winner  in Singapore from 32 race day starts with over S$300k of stakes winnings in the bin. “Joker” has paid the price of a rapid ascent in the ratings, getting rated so high that he found it difficult to win and has not greeted the judge since Sept 2022. However, now back to a rating 69, he put in a solid performance at his most recent start in Class 3 Grade and is only two points away from getting back to Class 4. An 1100m Poly track specialist (7 of his 8 wins have come at that trip and surface), he is set to race next on 27^th May. Just contact John by email or call/text 021 921 460 if you wish to take up this opportunity – the 3% can be broken down into 1% parcels @ $144 and $36 per month from 1 June

Guest Selector  – Mayne Bax
 
Yes, under our new “in house selector” initiative, Mayne Bax is the first to step up to the plate for a three week stint. Mayne is a long standing Cambridge farming identity who has been in several horses with us over the years, including Trident, who now races in Singapore. Mayne really fancied Khafeef’s chances in the Maiden Steeples at Trentham on Saturday, but after seeing the $1.55 Fixed Odds, he has switched to the 2yo event at Pukekohe – Race 3 Horse 2 – Paragon. Racing in the Cambridge Stud Silks, trained by James/Wellwood and to be ridden by Warren Kennedy, the beautifully bred Paragon was nosed into 2^nd at Hastings on debut 1200m after a winning trial previously. Bound to take natural improvement from that run, note this is a Stakes event, so does meet some nice types here, but has an astute training team at the helm with an in form jockey aboard and a good draw – track was a Heavy 10 Wednesday afternoon, but mild sunny conditions could see it come back into the soft range – Mayne says 1 unit the win – 3 units the place – showing fixed odds of $8/2.40