tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270686682024-03-19T06:29:12.082+11:00Cat PoliticsAnne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.comBlogger1110125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-90840546256343413712024-03-18T15:00:00.001+11:002024-03-18T15:06:06.236+11:00Jenni by a Mile<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1CFO6oHpnPwXSAe74ox9n2hi-Q56QMxve"><img width="450" height="308" title="all star mile_pride of jenni 3" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_pride of jenni 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=152YWbkZq1ipBcId5ydGJkS_QmEREPaYa"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Pride of Jenni</strong> on her way to winning the 2024 All Star Mile</font></em></p><p>It wasn’t what you would call a top class field contesting this year’s edition of the <em>All Star Mile</em>, but worth attending nonetheless as an outing away from home.</p><p>The sun was shining and the wind was gentle as compared to the ghastly weather at Flemington on <strong>Newmarket Handicap Day</strong>.</p><p>As the <em>All Star Mile</em> was scheduled to run at 4.15pm, I took my time getting to Caulfield, arriving around 2.15pm. </p><p>After locating my friend Rebecca, I discovered that we were permitted in the Members area, which was directly in front of the winning post; something of a bonus.</p><p>Race 5, the Listed <em>Quayclean Anniversary Vase</em>, run over 1600 metres was handy for photography practice before the better races following.</p><p><strong>First Immortal</strong> who raced on the pace in second place overtook race leader<strong> Keats</strong> as they approached the winning post to win narrowly from <strong>The Summit</strong> with <strong>Nugget</strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1FfTLDC0r-q-Dh-2m6-F-dwX_x-t_qbxq"><img width="450" height="339" title="race 5_anniversary vase_first immortal 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_anniversary vase_first immortal 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1o5O78VLU-qWWjRwaIO1DRls3MRXXI5nw"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>First Immortal</strong> charges to the finish up the straight</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1eg-aGZSKVG8X9f-Pg9z_yqQOxu7JyUUm"><img width="450" height="429" title="race 5_anniversary vase_the summit 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_anniversary vase_the summit 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ZgrhGzSvHCENwWYC8JWTUoIsWsQs_PdJ"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>The Summit</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>The next race was the <em>Redoute’s Choice Stakes</em> for two year olds, and hot favourite<strong> Bold Bastille</strong> won easily from<strong> Immortal Star</strong> and <strong>Yes Lulu</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1IkkdM4N7f9fPt8xRhJ93Pggc2uVHiHfI"><img width="450" height="322" title="race 6_bold bastille 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_bold bastille 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1mV1AVSrtLmPdTWmkBkQz1DScJVSmkOVy"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Bold Bastille</strong> wins the Redoute’s Choice Stakes</font></em> </p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1jN4Wc4HZw5mpel8zwyYZQr0MGbqxoXrA"><img width="450" height="225" title="race 6_immortal star_yes lulu 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_immortal star_yes lulu 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Vmj0fCqADEe7r8LAIAIkxjTKyhVUHVbb"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Immortal Star</strong> (pink) overtaking <strong>Yes Lulu</strong> to run second</font></em></p><p>I was pleased to see that Race 7 was named for <strong>Mystic Journey</strong>, the inaugural winner of the <em>All Star Mile</em>.</p><p>The 2024 edition featured a field of pretty smart three year old fillies.</p><p><strong>Waltz On By</strong>, a grand daughter of former star mare <strong>Miss Finland</strong> who won the<em> Golden Slipper</em> and ran second in the <em>Blue Diamond Stakes</em> in 2006, won the bickies in the<em> Mystic Journey</em>, beating <strong>Lady Jones</strong> by a length with <strong>Seonee</strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=19SYFTk1BUtgW1K_wPZ4NnGRQLDlDOR4Q"><img width="450" height="298" title="race 7_the mystic journey_waltz on by 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_the mystic journey_waltz on by 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1uQj30TIHtjdRXn5sgC2Itw1cwN39ZY8l"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Waltz On By</strong> wins the Mystic Journey from Lady Jones</font></em></p><p>The next race was the feature event, that is <em>The All Star Mile</em>, but before that happened there was a modicum of entertainment in the form of a singer in the stands accompanied by a trumpeter, singing the Tina Turner classic Simply the Best…</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ZVqdLq1fszvKBwk6eKTZqUqo_3wmZ-tK"><img width="450" height="330" title="entertainment 1" style="display: inline;" alt="entertainment 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1XhS0KLEJXpH8lkF77weuhxvnPgiHn2IR"></a><br><em><font size="2">Singer</font></em></p><p>Then the<em> All Star Mile</em> field emerged onto the track.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1f5v5mV4iIDYncyz1W4Lb52MGyXNrn9sw"><img width="450" height="398" title="all star mile_attractable 2" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_attractable 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Eh-rcgc29isYZ05zMGg-nmrZI9A-WbxR"></a><br><em><font size="2">Attractable</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1_mORfzs9VMJg4ZVsCWfRPCkE5UUyDKV_"><img width="450" height="336" title="all star mile_ayrton 1" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_ayrton 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1O3yUZ17lLlOR7iWQrzsZZBjAkK5IXyyo"></a><br><em><font size="2">Ayrton</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=18XjkTGw8ePKKxOAMOWRxDM5y0G_9PJBU"><img width="450" height="377" title="all star mile_cascadian 2" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_cascadian 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1D7Gu_B3ao98us5i7qrlzUzSsFlSffybK"></a><br><em><font size="2">Cascadian</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=14V7vPKdXoxN5QudX0rliEJwuOKLoyhyL"><img width="450" height="326" title="all star mile_desert lightning 1" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_desert lightning 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1CEGtWfBKWXxAdxFAU7ZGfyoZyqIihzoD"></a><br><em><font size="2">Desert Lightning</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=10kMl5zFO91pF6ds9dUa9uEJxJ5QkE3bx"><img width="450" height="392" title="all star mile_mr brightside 2" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_mr brightside 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1TBWA-JD_kJP7Fca2r-SHnC6Pdj-CzW9u"></a><br><em><font size="2">Mr Brightside</font></em> – favourite</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1EkiwKuBu4mgOuVb3fWhAjg6nRPPZ34RU"><img width="450" height="341" title="all star mile_munhamek 2" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_munhamek 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1iJXCPbRhmJJTGAXvGn8LRFKA7Voxmur5"></a><br><em><font size="2">Munhamek</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1oW3loxVZY2Glh7mPgYXaoEp-unaBMyfh"><img width="450" height="364" title="all star mile_holymanz 2" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_holymanz 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=13b7Kert9wglzGlzNppsmVhieJVQ7oQ49"></a><br><em><font size="2">Holymanz</font></em></p><p><strong>Mr Brightside</strong> was the warm favourite despite having to start from gate 11. This in the end defeated him with <strong>Pride of Jenni</strong> leading from the start to the finish, running at a solid pace that he was unable to match in time.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=18RqZJRjVbzwXfui8feYgJTwsOL4R6GWA"><img width="450" height="311" title="all star mile_pride of jenni 4" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_pride of jenni 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1o7tl1cyMQ2CqJKTUoUtrvcR8BuM6t58h"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Pride of Jenni</strong> burns up the straight to win the All Star Mile</font></em></p><p><strong>Mr Brightside</strong> came dashing from the rear of the field to finish second and <strong>Cascadian</strong> ran third.</p><p>And so ended yet another <em>All Star Mile</em>, after which I headed for the station and home.</p><p>Next Saturday I’m heading to Moonee Valley to see <strong>Imperatriz</strong> run in the <em>William Reid Stakes.</em></p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-9164302751196200912024-03-10T15:05:00.001+11:002024-03-10T15:05:10.066+11:00Newmarket Handicap Review<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1vT3GFxEtfGdOYpPUtBrTDqlVofdCPKig"><img width="450" height="343" title="newmarket_finish 11" style="display: inline;" alt="newmarket_finish 11" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1IIFZ1YeuKJfxel8WwWC1wzmbFn4qiTLo"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Cylinder</strong> (blue) on his way to winning the 2024 Newmarket Handicap</font></em></p><p>As the Media emphasised over and over again, it was a stinking hot day last Saturday, fierce sunlight and a blustery wind making the conditions at Flemington pretty awful.</p><p>However, I didn’t let that put me off attending, when my current favourite racehorse,<strong> Imperatriz</strong>, was set to contest the feature race.</p><p>Racing Victoria had rejigged the time line of events with the first race being put back to 10.45 am, meaning it would not be a long afternoon trackside.</p><p>I reached Flemington around 11.45am and was in time to practice photography in the 4th race, the Group 2 <em>Sires Produce Stakes</em>.</p><p>Also having time on my hands I briefly visited the stalls area for a photo of Imperatriz</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1c8rPpmyYaKf2pSNYWrbxOjcPZ1C0N3z0"><img width="450" height="462" title="Stalls_imperatriz 5" style="display: inline;" alt="Stalls_imperatriz 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1bK0M4nmDiRrU4ll4COeVxHZ45NdK0mLD"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Imperatriz</strong> in her stall</font></em></p><p><strong>Traffic Warden</strong> was the victor in the <em>Sires Produce Stakes</em>, leading from the start, beating race favourite <strong>Rue De Royale</strong> by 1.75 lengths. </p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Tan2rsKlY7xoMr-62X7ede1bIHIjfMI3"><img width="450" height="368" title="race 4 _sires produce_traffic warden 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4 _sires produce_traffic warden 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1LDIoimZsWXJlRXI7CDFABsl9-SuVheRT"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Traffic Warden</strong> wins the Sires Produce Stakes</font></em> </p><p> <a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1WDqGRyZ1KbbEq_va7aiIwLppJVu9QIcB"><img width="450" height="364" title="race 4 _sires produce_rue de royale 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4 _sires produce_rue de royale 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=17y3O_JN94y_ow3yu_RUnrWKb9T3k8seH"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Rue de Royale</font></em></strong> </p><p>Race 5 was the Group 1 <em>Newmarket Handicap</em> and <strong>Imperatriz</strong> was the hot favourite.</p><p>Alas, it wasn’t to be with lightweight three year old <strong>Cylinder</strong> upstaging the mare to win by 1.25 lengths. <strong>Imperatriz</strong> carried the top weight of 58kg, giving <strong>Cylinder</strong>, who carried 51.5kg an enormous advantage on weights.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1BLuL11oEKUqfbOuRpCVZBqptVRpzJzSB"><img width="450" height="384" title="newmarket_finish 9" style="display: inline;" alt="newmarket_finish 9" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1k1ireYBiez422hjn8QPD5wmZIXzNbWs9"></a><br><font size="2"><em><strong>Imperatriz</strong> battling up the straight overtaking race leader </em><strong>The Astrologist</strong></font></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Bj-1ZYabx443yUjXPs3GUYzXhqXW8iAy"><img width="450" height="322" title="newmarket_imperarriz 6" style="display: inline;" alt="newmarket_imperarriz 6" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=14x2no4U9PT5wuaqSqtLKUvsqXt8JFuoM"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Imperatriz </strong>returns to scale</font></em></p><p>As trains from Flemington to the city were running all afternoon and feeling the heat, I departed after the <em>Newmarket Handicap</em> and got home early for a change.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-66105302943556610232024-02-26T13:58:00.001+11:002024-02-26T14:05:12.030+11:00Blue Diamond Stakes Day Review<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1lMbnQfa_YgdNBlC3F2aMplA58QhjuT68"><img width="450" height="339" title="blue diamond_hayasugi 3" style="display: inline;" alt="blue diamond_hayasugi 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ECa8UPuY5qRYtw1jT6a6yOoZu-j9aIn7"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Hayasugi </strong>on her way to winning the 2024 Blue Diamond Stakes</font></em></p><p>Last Saturday I set out for Caulfield around 12.40pm and arrived at the track 40 minutes later, in time to locate my friend Rebecca and practice photography on Race 4, the Group 3 <em>Zedative Stakes, </em>a race for 3 year olds over 1200 metres<em>.</em></p><p><strong>Raikoke</strong> led from the start, and despite a late challenge from <strong>Brave Mead,</strong> won by over a length. <strong>Scully</strong> ran third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1S5eeyfrRhSt89FieAXXB_iy-nRc7nBdv"><img width="450" height="279" title="race 4_zedative_raikoke 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_zedative_raikoke 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1fge3N9SvgoijlaQxuwc7KsnDk-aWGAwz"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Raikoke</strong> wins the Zedative Stakes comfortably</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1v1OKqUBOst8aS13lCd7a72v5wnzbxQeD"><img width="450" height="336" title="race 4_zedative_brave mead 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_zedative_brave mead 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=13SCdE7Jsnx2B1WyKKso7xLROw0RI7AmO"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Brave Mead</strong> in hot pursuit</font></em> </p><p>The Group 2 <em>Autumn Classic</em>, over 1800 metres was next to run and was won by over 3 lengths by<strong> Immediacy</strong>. <strong>Caracas</strong> finished second with <strong>Our Couver</strong> a further length behind in third place</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1x9fEp1TQanOum34KkD6meILp2DP6Qx4b"><img width="450" height="349" title="race 5_autumn classic_immediacy 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_autumn classic_immediacy 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1D3O8gTzpMn1r8NAxwMPgxRD_KoB9cVYQ"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Immediacy</strong> wins the Autumn Classic easily</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1spyQFYh6X4UcIDEpO3i8ICczle9jx1BV"><img width="450" height="313" title="race 5_autumn classic_our couver_caracas 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_autumn classic_our couver_caracas 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1D1tqI-Lkt3r8Q18_qoDkLahhOX-eLba8"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Caracas </strong>and <strong>Our Couver</strong> run second and third</font></em></p><p>It was a sunny day with a cool breeze offsetting the heat of the sun, pleasant to be in the open air.</p><p>Race 6, the Group 2 <em>Peter Young Stakes</em> was of interest due to the presence of highly regarded New Zealand mare <strong>Campionessa</strong> taking on the likes of past <strong>Melbourne Cup</strong> winners <strong>Vow and Declare</strong> and<strong> Gold Trip</strong>.</p><p>The mare proved her metal with a gritty win over a very short margin (a nose) from <strong>Vow and Declare</strong>. <strong>Gold Trip</strong> finished third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1XBROtYoxQDodZ98QkHrj5uSxL3EMfOTA"><img width="450" height="263" title="race 6_peter young stakes_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_peter young stakes_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ksSoQvZ1s8mEYg_ppO3IE3VeiI8FB7W8"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Campionessa </strong>wins the Peter Young Stakes from<strong> Vow and Declare</strong></font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1TJ4Ba0EUveKNNBmT2vgoeOvnZc0Z_5Du"><img width="450" height="317" title="race 6_peter young stakes_campionessa 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_peter young stakes_campionessa 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1HP0gCY_CcD8YpwYt0aDpqXGlB6i4so70"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Campionessa </strong>on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1lig8_A4EDJgk0xGLJaSk5yJ7YNncGP9z"><img width="450" height="375" title="race 6_peter young stakes_vow and declare 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_peter young stakes_vow and declare 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1RPuzWvbCJujGSRKCaB65ye_ejf31GJrS"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Vow an Declare</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=11FJlWU8lckV4MRWZqEqdETCiU91AxZHK"><img width="450" height="403" title="race 6_peter young stakes_gold trip 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_peter young stakes_gold trip 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1O5JpQ5v1vgOjLS9EA_FRIw6Je03QOKTI"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Gold Trip</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>There were three Group 1 races on the cards last Saturday, the first to run being the <em>Futurity Stakes</em>. Star miler <strong>Mr Brightside</strong> was the hot favourite and he didn’t disappoint, winning by over length from <strong>Pericles</strong> with early leader, <strong>Buffalo River</strong>, hanging on for third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1sgmSsRoz1z70xT0CQmNJNyvpMub6o0K8"><img width="450" height="278" title="race 7_futurity stakes_mr brightside 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_futurity stakes_mr brightside 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=18x_jZE2rt8-BrGBpI1TLaf5TliR72MHR"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Mr Brightside</strong> burns up the straight to win the Futurity Stakes</font></em></p><p>With feature <em>Blue Diamond Stakes</em> up next, Rebecca and I stuck to our spot on the fence, rather than jostling for position with other racing enthusiasts.</p><p><strong>Coleman</strong> started as the favourite, but 14/1 shot <strong>Hayasugi,</strong> given a lovely ride by Jaimie Kah, won the prize narrowly from the highly favoured <strong>Lady of Camelot,</strong> with <strong>Kuroyanagi</strong> running third, completing a fillies trifecta.</p><p><strong>Hayasugi</strong> became the first horse since <strong>Sepoy</strong> in 2011 to win the <em>Blue Diamond Preview</em>, <em>Blue Diamond</em> <em>Prelude </em>and <em>Blue Diamond Stakes</em> – quite an accomplishment! </p><p>I also recall that I saw her racing on <em>Cox Plate</em> Day last year, where she ran second to <strong>Bold Bastille</strong> in the Group 2<em> Inglis Banner</em>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1wXHKD6xtOiEMa9GcdVEFr1vHy1GP3ZQ0"><img width="450" height="352" title="blue diamond_hayasugi 1" style="display: inline;" alt="blue diamond_hayasugi 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1I1WFBwdu6DlHxD16b3uCo55tf8WrK0bb"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Hayasugi</strong> returns to scale after winning the Blue Diamond Stakes</font></em></p><p>I didn’t stay for the final Group 1, the <em>Oakleigh Plate</em> which was won in my absence by <strong>Queman</strong>, opting for home after a pleasant afternoon trackside.</p><p>Next Saturday I will probably attend the <em>Australian Guineas</em> meeting at Flemington.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-10993919063831844962024-02-20T12:42:00.001+11:002024-02-20T14:56:57.993+11:00Vale Verry Elleegant<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1otDP6MWRs97adcMPPkC_IlhB-qSwzpIZ"><img width="450" height="300" title="race 5 _verry elleegant 8" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5 _verry elleegant 8" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1FSDDL2fWttwwANjWScVbG57jXu2ZUp_m"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Verry Elleegant</strong> – October 2018</font></em></p><p>The sad news of the death of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Verry_Elleegant#Racing_summary">Verry Elleegant</a><strong></strong> was released yesterday.</p><p>She died of complications while giving birth to her first foal in Europe.</p><p>It was on a rare occasion that she raced in Melbourne, most of her illustrious career being in Sydney under the care of Chris Waller.</p><p>She won 11 Group 1 races and I only saw her in the flesh during her three year old year when she was trained by Darren Weir. After that the Covid outbreak prevented attendance at the races for several years.</p><p>So the only photos I have of her are from 2018, when she was three, though I did watch her Sydney races on my computer or on the big screen if I was at the races.</p><p>Alas, her foal was unable to be saved, so we will not have the pleasure of watching her children on the track in the future.</p><p>She was great race mare who will be sadly missed by all race fans.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-84197095380949960002024-02-19T14:41:00.001+11:002024-02-19T14:41:46.087+11:00Lightning Strike–Imperatriz wins again<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=17Adf7RT00t9yhD4O00THwIKT3M-BYN4m"><img width="450" height="285" title="race 8_bc lightning_imperatriz 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_bc lightning_imperatriz 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1P0hbJ9J_7O4ZFqy3ci3CBimukvHKrabG"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Imperatriz </strong>winning the 2024 Black Caviar Lightning Stakes</font></em></p><p>Over the past decade I have attended <strong>Lightning Stakes Day</strong> at Flemington many times.</p><p>This year with super star sprinter <strong>Imperatriz</strong> being set to run, it was a no brainer to be present again, so I headed off to the big track last Saturday for the event.</p><p>Happily it was a sunny day, quite warm in fact, and I arrived at the track shortly after 1.00 pm and was in plenty of time to get to my favourite possie on the fence to witness the <em>Talindert Stakes</em>, a race for two year olds over 1100 metres.</p><p>The bizarrely named <strong>Aardvark</strong> won the race by a little over length with <strong>Reasonable Point</strong> and <strong>Bittercreek </strong> running the minor places.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1jkT9KFBIIxM-Pe0K5Cdu2LtwhrYqEdl2"><img width="450" height="279" title="race 3_talindert stakes_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 3_talindert stakes_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1spNlV9kAPiJWc2b1NWA3HOTghlZXhzYv"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Aardvark</strong> wins the Talindert Stakes</font></em></p><p>I gave Race 4 a miss and decided to visit the stalls area to get a photo of <strong>Imperatriz</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1XRlA8Dzha9d394nEdGDVmO8stl7OtGg3"><img width="450" height="418" title="stalls_imperatriz 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_imperatriz 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=171l-QNGXFT5xwgKjbNIkRmESD8MmZ2AE"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Imperatriz</strong> in her stall looking bright & beautiful</font></em></p><p>Race 5 was the Group 3 <em>Frances Tressady Stakes</em>, run over 1400 metres for fillies and mares. </p><p><strong>Revolutionary Miss</strong> who I recall witnessing winning the <em>Blue Diamond Prelude</em> in 2022, proved the winner in this race, narrowly beating <strong>Forbidden City</strong> and <strong>Fortunate Kiss.</strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1dIVGPSP33VNRLt52fpF9xfOMeGBwKWbu"><img width="450" height="322" title="race 5_finish 4" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_finish 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1u2qmfjYTAigJPh3fWoSxvx0UF7QtooH2"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Revolutionary Miss</strong> wins the Frances Tressady Stakes from <strong>Forbidden City</strong></font></em></p><p>The the Group 3<em> Vanity</em> was next up and <strong>Grizinger Belle</strong>, who led from the start, prevailed to win comfortably from <strong>French Endeavour</strong> and<strong> Mollyknickers</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1GT9caVHPmXHrTYnSpIsab-D5gQ4eOjjB"><img width="450" height="308" title="race 6_vanity_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_vanity_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1pVp12pmzWUan-a39e3hRPUH4kYTdfD0j"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Grizinger Belle</strong> wins The Vanity</font></em></p><p>The colts equivalent of <em>The Vanity</em>, the <em>C S Hayes Stakes</em>, followed and 2023 <em>Victorian Derby</em> winner,<strong> Riff Rocket</strong>, surprised everyone with a solid victory, running from the tail of the field to overtake <strong>King Colorado</strong> and score the bickies.<strong> Verdad</strong> ran third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1QBvJslyJAlFTaNkwln4Rn5hV8zntrbPg"><img width="450" height="291" title="race 7_cs hayes_finish 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_cs hayes_finish 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1QTN-mGPLHe9Z2s7Z-1XxQ2ZEHSN-otAr"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Riff Rocket</strong> wins the C S Hayes Stakes</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1QwKR1NGh73uv_fFxqYUQ6HbRSwGUZwQd"><img width="450" height="309" title="race 7_cs hayes_riff rocket 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_cs hayes_riff rocket 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1nIN1HwBXwYRm4tXu-cicx_zUAHi6r1bP"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Riff Rocket</strong> on his way to barriers</font></em></p><p>Flemington was in Carnival mode with a small band entertaining the crowd and stilt walkers cruising the public lawn.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1XRmHf9RVyzrwpsxv9RR63XxTd5jmIkKf"><img width="450" height="398" title="stilt walker 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stilt walker 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1twoFha8Bzt7TDvF639e3506BB6I0KanW"></a><br><em><font size="2">Stilt walker posing for photograph.</font></em></p><p>It wasn’t all that crowded last Saturday so it was easy to get around when seeking shade from the sun.</p><p>The feature event was of course the Group 1 <em>Black Caviar Lightning</em>. It was renamed in <strong>Black Caviar’s</strong> honour in 2013 to recognise her dominance in the event. She won it three years consecutively from 2011 to 2013.</p><p><strong>Imperatriz</strong> was the hot favourite this year and she won by a short margin after overtaking <strong>Private Eye</strong> in the straight.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1R_G2M_rTiABG0a1MRctYb_KufDsDMgk9"><img width="450" height="382" title="race 8_bc lightning_imperatriz 7" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_bc lightning_imperatriz 7" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1_-yH-k9D66GJMKujXqMli2y7gPvSOQpM"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Imperatriz </strong>returns to scale</font></em></p><p>Calling it quits after the<em> Black Caviar Lightning</em> I headed home, pleased to have attended to have seen <strong>Imperatriz </strong>win yet again. </p><p>Her next race I assume will be the Group 1 <em>William Reid Stakes</em> at Moonee Valley in late March – I’ve already purchased a ticket!.</p><p>Next Saturday I plan to go to the<strong> Blue Diamond Stakes</strong> meeting at Caulfield.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-60462151393778603442024-01-03T14:53:00.001+11:002024-01-03T14:53:38.829+11:00New Year 2024<p>Another year done and dusted and a brand new one starts.</p><p>I’m just glad that I’m still alive, though life gets more boring as one’s age advances.</p><p>There are however some things to look forward to, such as new books by favourite authors and perhaps some new music in the offing as well.</p><p>And of course I’m still waiting to receive the long ago ordered numbered edition of John Crowley’s wonderful novel, Little, Big.</p><p>According to the latest news, this edition is expected to be mailed in January this year. Cross fingers, after waiting for nineteen years, I may have it in my hands in February or March, barring World War III or some dire Climate Change disaster preventing delivery.</p><p>The upcoming Autumn Racing Carnival somewhat piques my interest, even though I’m feeling a tad too old to attend, but stoic that I am I’ll probably head out to the track a few times.</p><p>In the mean time I wish any readers of this blog a Happy New Year.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-36414901658015903412023-11-20T12:18:00.001+11:002023-11-20T12:18:34.270+11:00Thousand Guineas Day at Caulfield<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1SUgQiMPoK-4w-drEbiQZhFQ5qfSlUj-E"><img width="450" height="298" title="race 7_thousand guineas_joliestar 5" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_thousand guineas_joliestar 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1G_1klxsYzQa3hB4TkJbeUOp0MIALinwV"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Joliestar</strong> wins the 2023 Thousand Guineas</font></em></p><p>Melbourne Racing Club has scheduled the <em>Thousand Guineas</em> at various times over the years. For some time it was run on <strong>Caulfield Guineas Day</strong>, and at other times contested at a mid week meeting during the <em>Caulfield Cup</em> mini carnival.</p><p>This year however it was held on Saturday afternoon with the Group 1 <em>Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes</em> added as an extra attraction. Also it was the last Melbourne race meeting for well known jockey Damien Oliver. He seems to have been around forever, but he is to retire at the end of the year.</p><p>If I had realised that public transport disruptions made it difficult to get to Caulfield by train, I would not have attended, as it seemed last Saturday that I spent more time travelling to and from the race course, than I passed at the track.</p><p>It’s normally pretty easy to get to Caulfield by train, several lines servicing the station, so I set off in the early afternoon and arrived at Flinders Street around 1.30pm.</p><p>From there it got tricky, as I discovered after making enquiries at Flinders Street on how to get to Caulfield, being told that I needed to take a train to Burnley Station from where I could connect with a train replacement bus.</p><p>As I wasn’t in a great rush and had plenty of time in hand I took the train to Burnley Station and found the replacement bus stop after quite a long walk, and eventually was on an express bus to Caulfield.</p><p>So it was getting close to 3.00 pm by the time I reached Caulfield Racecourse.</p><p>I was on time and at the fence to watch and photograph Race 6, the Group 3, <em>Blue Sapphire Stakes</em>, a race for three year olds over 1400 metres.</p><p><strong>Run Harry Run</strong> proved the winner, fighting out the finish with <strong>Brave Mead</strong>. <strong>Arkansaw Kid</strong> filled third place.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=19cpaO9h74FGubaGfboUSh_9VxL-QZ24-"><img width="450" height="322" title="race 6_blue sapphire stakes_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_blue sapphire stakes_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ASJBnY7METcwz8J7Ni9vrF-IWRvvdVLk"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Run Harry Run</strong> (blue & red) & <strong>Brave Mead</strong> neck and neck down the straight</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1c5edqAoV9kS70vyK9Ie6TUv0AyIvpHiF"><img width="450" height="332" title="race 6_blue sapphire stakes_place 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_blue sapphire stakes_place 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1KGD60Iy_32N61Te9vgniEmT025wic0Ki"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Arkansaw Kid</strong> running third</font></em></p><p>Having taken so long to get to the track, the first of the Group 1 races was up next, this being the <em>Thousand Guineas</em>.</p><p><strong>Coeur Volante</strong> started as favourite, but <strong>Joliestar</strong> was dominant at the finish, winning by over a length from <strong>Kimochi</strong> with <strong>Skybird</strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1JxdFfoTi9DM0oQmgmxuYFWiFtBwN2ifY"><img width="450" height="411" title="race 7_thousand guineas_joliestar 6" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_thousand guineas_joliestar 6" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1KkuIh4ZS8JkIu8VzgGCLHZp2IpBRMLxX"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Joliestar </strong>returns to scale</font></em> </p><p>The Group 1 <em>Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes</em> was the next to run and a field of 16 runners were contesting the 1400 metre race.</p><p>It resulted in <strong>Magic Time</strong> winning the prize from <strong>I Am Me</strong> and <strong>Straight Acer</strong>, running wide to overtake the leaders, finishing a good length in front of <strong>I Am Me</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1FR8v6TDu-qDTLRFhqMrJKbkXNBtilhFz"><img width="450" height="266" title="race 8_rupert clark stakes_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_rupert clark stakes_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1cxQm-9p7iS8a9Egl-56DUivVJpzECOTW"></a> <br><em><font size="2"><strong>Magic Time</strong> overtakes <strong>I Am Me</strong> to win the 2023 Rupert Clarke Stakes</font></em></p><p>I did not stay for the final two races and thus missed Damien Oliver’s farewell after the last race, opting to catch the tram – a longish scenic journey through the Eastern suburbs that eventually delivered me to Flinders Street Station from where I took a train home.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-86152933813123393502023-11-13T13:12:00.001+11:002023-11-15T19:51:08.449+11:00Champions Stakes Day at Flemington<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1zCCH72VP9xQNZfV9NY6700bmDBIxISUw"><img width="450" height="266" title="mounting yard sign 1" style="display: inline;" alt="mounting yard sign 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ubpcUSEUdjBWZkHhKjuvZOyzoBqnP_tN"></a><br>As the sign above the gate to the Mounting Yard proclaimed, it was <strong>Champion’s Stakes Day</strong> at Flemington, the last day of the Flemington Melbourne Cup mini carnival, so forth I went last Saturday to catch the action.</p><p>There were three Group 1 races on the card, a sprint – the <em>Champions Sprint</em>, a race over 1600 metres dubbed the <em>Champions Mile</em> and the <em>Champions Stakes</em>, run over 2000 metres.</p><p>Quality fields had accepted on the day, making it worth attending.</p><p>I was particularly interested in seeing<strong> Imperatriz</strong>, the super New Zealand mare, running in the sprint.</p><p>It was a coolish kind of day, a chill wind spoiling the afternoon somewhat despite the bright sunshine.</p><p>As the Group 1 races were scheduled for mid to late afternoon, I took my time getting to Flemington, arriving around 2.00 pm, just before the running of the <em>Queen Elizabeth Stakes</em>.</p><p>I watched the race from a distance and noted that <strong>Muramasa </strong>was the winner with<strong> Ladies Man</strong> running second ahead of<strong> Duke de Sessa</strong>.</p><p>From there I made my way up to the stalls area to see who had arrived and came across several of the Group 1 runners, such as <strong>Imperatriz.</strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1pwXmJF691vwAq7Hhc25Pt_4Ymx6y3I6_"><img width="450" height="405" title="stalls_imperatriz 2" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_imperatriz 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1S9zNI15RUXipKZnpjgwrrWh29Q59ESv9"></a><br><em><font size="2">I<strong>mperatriz </strong></font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1254fyn4XPaYMr1aoypAQK6vIoUfBYQU0"><img width="450" height="439" title="stalls_zaaki 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_zaaki 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1_V1vogsEsm2S_yJ8reB_MO-PfZnJj2Rj"></a><br><em><strong><font size="2">Zaaki</font></strong></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1fler6gRDAcAMw5y37xQZdOJ3TZ15C_YY"><img width="450" height="519" title="stalls_alligator blood 2" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_alligator blood 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1K62mEFmag94PS3fozvqT2Kwm7di5zwME"></a><br><em><strong><font size="2">Alligator Blood</font></strong></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=14qBSIFm0oSqt9vKfTj9Qo0TX7gAZYH30"><img width="450" height="448" title="stalls_pride of jenni 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_pride of jenni 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1RBK22QD9w2XdoDJ2mzKOBBKEer5BIkVL"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Pride of Jenni</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1w8piMDwr0-yiXlvaYLfa1itWNxIfu_mW"><img width="450" height="484" title="stalls_esponia 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_esponia 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Ef5HDCob9f5ZPZJFpl2p2ZEIBZrPTWSK"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Espiona</font></em></strong></p><p>It was a well patronised race meeting, but not that hard to get through the crowd of scantily dressed girls to my preferred spot on the fence, from where I managed some photo practice in Race 5, the Group 2 <em>Matriarch Stakes</em>, where a field of mares were set to run the 2000 metres.</p><p><strong>Deny Knowledge</strong> led from the start to the finish and won narrowly from <strong>Osmose</strong> and <strong>Amokura.</strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=11pAzI_Be8l8cvrJLn3Dg5x5VMTS1ah2A"><img width="450" height="268" title="race 5_matriarch stakes _finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_matriarch stakes _finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=16mDVWemjkDWRngG8tdJ4Wmc4xfbCKrqX"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Deny Knowledge</strong> prevails over <strong>Osmose</strong> and <strong>Amokura</strong></font></em></p><p>The next race was the first of the Group 1 events, this being the <em>Champions Sprint</em> where <strong>Imperatriz</strong> won her fifth Group 1 in succession, defeating a classy field. <strong>Buenes Noches</strong> ran second ahead of <strong>In Secret</strong> and<strong> Espiona</strong> finished fourth.</p><p>As the field raced down the centre of the track fairly close to the outer rail it is always difficult to get clear photos of the finish. Fortunately I clicked at the right time and snapped<strong> Imperatriz</strong> in shot.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1CXM_bxfqNnulUjStVdUDYpc-Dq1H8Wi7"><img width="450" height="294" title="race 6_champions sprint_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_champions sprint_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=191HgcvLGMf2A5CXJX-5zz7u3QY__xmci"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Imperatriz </strong>wins the Champions Sprint</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1PLngg7wG2QvyAMTJ7oOW8dRsH0t9Pskv"><img width="450" height="390" title="race 6_champions sprint_imperatriz 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_champions sprint_imperatriz 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1hxn1JsXS6QQcnEIYWV1bRRPOfGbqaEQg"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Imperatriz </strong>returns to scale</font></em></p><p>The next two races resulted in unexpected long shot winners, the <em>Champions Mile</em> being won by <strong>Pride of Jenni</strong> who led from the start and was never challenged. <strong>Mr Brightside</strong> finished second ahead of <strong>Alligator Blood</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1rM8f7_2YUtWPqjyETYZmKTdQJZCNB9Pc"><img width="450" height="401" title="race 7_champions mile_finish 4" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_champions mile_finish 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1jcHje0RqvtFKX32QKnQleASHWWVEKiVZ"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Pride of Jenni</strong> zooms up the straight to win the Champions Mile</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1O2lCG-R8-0Mf1AsXkyp1a3hryvEtfPgg"><img width="450" height="238" title="race 7_champions mile_finish 5" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_champions mile_finish 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1SLID5DmuGLFNUA85miD8NXEyi__zwXnR"></a><br><em><font size="2">The placegetters – <strong>Mr Brightside</strong>, <strong>Alligator Blood</strong> & <strong>Fangirl</strong></font></em></p><p>The Chris Waller trained<strong> Atishu</strong> triumphed in the <em>Champions Stakes</em>, easily beating<strong> Duais</strong> by almost two lengths with <strong>Young Werther</strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1FXU7I4XHuR9_IYJBl0_kf3wqQWMDURMU"><img width="450" height="264" title="race 8_champions stakes_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_champions stakes_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1akSXxnxCxS5KhM3kP8zsoR9oxRaGQs5d"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Atishu</strong> wins the Champions Stakes</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1_PQWlIxdMCBKkHV_My3MKqgdZZtlRR62"><img width="450" height="294" title="race 8_champions stakes_atishu 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_champions stakes_atishu 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=18RCTw5NHI_8BcTyQDuIYiqYuGveDeV5M"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Atishu </strong>on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=142Ol4zQONHWsifDjHKMC-oH0YjMyGcs9"><img width="450" height="321" title="race 8_champions stakes_duais 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_champions stakes_duais 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1jcUE-FkaZ8dJrw3Ctc7YN-SsUGr1Wp9J"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Duais </strong>on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1qiG_12-N4xeZzY7ehmmL7oy9pKuwMjRU"><img width="450" height="326" title="race 8_champions stakes_young werther 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_champions stakes_young werther 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1VT0uacDZ9rVPCpebNvY91XQu1HgBrWR4"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Young Werther</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>I didn’t stay for the final race, heading home directly after the <em>Champions Stakes</em>.</p><p>Next week Caulfield host the final Melbourne Group 1 races of the Spring Racing season, the <em>Thousand Guineas</em> and the <em>Rupert Clarke Stakes.</em></p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-17836538033968621132023-11-05T19:52:00.001+11:002023-11-05T19:52:32.718+11:00Rocket Man – Victoria Derby Review<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1TfskRSibc9fn6nzQMJfN-bcHkF5kUDoi"><img width="450" height="338" title="derby_riff rocket 2" style="display: inline;" alt="derby_riff rocket 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1iOYUiHK-FbfPAGz41Ec6ksPIxJjZY6bs"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Riff Rocket</strong> wins the 2023 Victoria Derby</font></em></p><p>It wasn’t what you would call a first class race meeting, but as <strong>Derby Day</strong> at Flemington kicks off the Melbourne Cup mini carnival I decided to attend.</p><p>The weather was fine and mostly sunny with light winds, so it was a pleasant day to be outdoors and soak up some Vitamin D along with the racing action.</p><p>As trains to the track were running all afternoon I had no trouble getting to Flemington and arrived just before Race 3, which happened to be the Group 3 <em>Furphy Sprint</em>, run over 1100 metres.</p><p>Either I’m out of the loop, or perhaps just jaded as far as horse racing is concerned, but few of the contenders for the <em>Furphy Sprint</em> were familiar to me.</p><p><strong>Queen of The Ball</strong> won the race from <strong>Hypothetical</strong> and <strong>Dancing Alone</strong> quite easily.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=13LqNNgArVdlPJRnne-9BM78WurxvwHZF"><img width="450" height="347" title="race 3_furphy sprint_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 3_furphy sprint_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1lsVI9tc71KTcEv-tHlX7vRjzPlJTuJ0K"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Queen of The Ball</strong> wins the Furphy Sprint</font></em> </p><p>Next up was the Group 3 <em>Rising Fast Stakes</em> over 1200 metres, which resulted in a narrow win for <strong>Spacewalk</strong> from <strong>Crosshaven </strong>with <strong>Najem Suhail </strong>running third.</p><p>On a side note, <strong>Rising Fast</strong> who won the 1954 <em>Melbourne Cup</em> was a first class racehorse who also won the <em>Caulfield Cup</em> in 1954 and 1955, as well as the 1954 <em>Cox Plate</em>, and is the first racehorse I was ever aware of back in 1954 at the tender age of seven when living in the bush. </p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1C1BXY6qABagXLHuEUQXNxwOuJnyi12RV"><img width="450" height="347" title="rising fast" style="display: inline;" alt="rising fast" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1y1P1MQXrbi7rcbdI463whuAQOiTGQWH5"></a> <br><em><font size="2">Newspaper photo of <strong>Rising Fast</strong> from my old racehorse scrap book</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1SGBNALKn5Z2UyEpkYjculSD26w5Jdp2y"><img width="450" height="289" title="race 4_rising fast stakes_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_rising fast stakes_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1sFgqEtn82mABzHAi4_r6SgJsg0wpnK3n"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Spacewalk </strong>and <strong>Crosshaven</strong> fight out the Rising Fast Stakes finish</font></em></p><p>Race 5 was the rather more interesting Group 2 <em>Wakeful Stakes</em>, a race over 2000 metres for fillies, where<strong> Amazonian Lass</strong>, leading from the start, hung on for a close win from <strong>Zardozi.</strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1QWTPryb3nkXCBA3JsEG585tgXOEjzNk-"><img width="450" height="308" title="race 5_wakeful stakes_finish 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_wakeful stakes_finish 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1hJKKGhWWBs10P5jzm1LS0jIuMaL1iq6j"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Amazonian Lass</strong> (yellow) wins the Wakeful Stakes from<strong> Zardozi</strong></font></em></p><p><strong>Derby Day</strong> included three Group 1 races, the first of these being the <em>Coolmore Stud Stakes</em>. Run over 1200 metres, it is a race for three year olds and the 2023 edition resulted in a win for Sydney colt <strong>Ozzmosis </strong>who raced on the pace throughout to win by over a length from <strong>I’m Unstoppable</strong> with 2023 <em>Golden Slipper</em> winner <strong>Shinzo</strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1fTr7dB7-xvwYk1PskFlxgrMZLcYNdR6v"><img width="450" height="352" title="race 6_coolmore stud stakes_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_coolmore stud stakes_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Kt3FLdEZjQsqCI3ple_d2BkpWZy_4x-g"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Ozzmosis</strong> (white) overtaking<strong> I’m Unstoppable</strong> and <strong>Shinzo</strong> to win the Coolmore Stud Stakes</font></em></p><p>Unlike Caulfield who schedule the feature races towards the end of the program, Flemington run theirs mid afternoon. so the <em>Victoria Derby</em> was up next at the reasonable time of 4.20 pm.</p><p><strong>Riff Rocket</strong> started as the short odds favourite and raced in the back end of the field. He stormed home to win narrowly from <strong>Apulia</strong> and <strong>Sunsets </strong>in a photo finish.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1-mVpyoIL67XMexHxKUNCQIHZY0jMM-To"><img width="450" height="347" title="derby_riff rocket 1" style="display: inline;" alt="derby_riff rocket 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ctb89dJh3XZ4QrMaFpl4GivW4KXIAKqG"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Riff Rocket</strong> wins the Victoria Derby</font></em> </p><p>I didn’t stay for the third Group 1, the <em>Empire Rose Stakes</em> which was won by<strong> Pride of Jenni</strong> who led from start to finish. <strong>Atishu </strong>ran second and <strong>Life lessons</strong> third.</p><p>Attending <strong>Derby Day</strong> has put me off going to the <em>Melbourne Cup</em> that I was contemplating doing. I’d forgotten how tedious Spring racing crowds can be, even though Derby Day was not as crowded as some I’ve been to. </p><p>Besides, the weather on Melbourne Cup day is forecast to be pretty awful.</p><p>I managed to catch the train back to Flinders Street in no time at all and was glad to sit down on a seat that was not a plastic fold out stool.</p><p>Last year I thought <strong>Champions Stakes Day</strong> a superior meeting to <strong>Derby Day</strong>, so will probably attend it next Saturday and hope for classier fields than those on offer last Saturday.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-85013396004226956772023-10-30T15:03:00.001+11:002023-10-30T15:03:09.844+11:00The Romance of Racing – Cox Plate Day Review<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1R5kl91gPXEaI_xekzcIG9khSBy8S1ypj"><img width="450" height="351" title="cox plate_parade 7" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_parade 7" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1m7xeGPqtyfV4CIh1JcZOWcwSTHokcRKZ"></a><br><em><font size="2">James MacDonald celebrates <strong>Romantic Warrior’s</strong> Cox Plate victory</font></em></p><p>It was a long afternoon at Moonee Valley Racecourse last Saturday as I arrived at the track much earlier than I normally would in order to grab a position on the fence. </p><p>The weather on the day was overcast with strong winds, which is hell for contact lens wearers of which I am one. However I did remember to wear sunglasses which provide protection from motes of dust that have a tendency to get under the lens and disrupt one’s view, not to mention being somewhat painful to suffer until they are wept out.</p><p>Catching my usual mode of transport, the 510 (Ivanhoe to Essendon) bus I arrived at Moonee Valley around 12.30pm and was able, after finding my friend Rebecca, to get some photo practice in Race 2, the<em> Inglis Banner</em>, a Listed race over 1000 metres for two year olds.</p><p>It was won by <strong>Bold Bastille</strong> who led from the start, beating <strong>Hayasugi</strong> by three lengths with <strong>Chosen Legend</strong> a further length behind running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=19ccyyFScThvb2xhDxg0bJx0loq-bmqwf"><img width="450" height="324" title="race 2_bold bastille 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 2_bold bastille 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1gF5sKRixglFxVRbjxLq3LiTztpBVOMas"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Bold Bastille</strong> bounds up the straight to win the Inglis Banner</font></em> </p><p>Race 3 was the Group 3 <em>Tesio Stakes</em>, run over 1600 metres. Hot favourite <strong>Wishlor Lass</strong> also led from go to woah and won easily by over a length from <strong>Thalassophile</strong> and <strong>Osmose.</strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1tIHzGHx8E0PGrpJO2gzf3n3N1eW232MZ"><img width="450" height="349" title="race 3_wishlor lass 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 3_wishlor lass 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=16u_bMw6P6x0asFrEPQRiGd3EQ0lxQNS7"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Wishlor Lass</strong> on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>The rather more interesting<em> Crockett Stakes</em> was next up and<strong> Sheva</strong> started as favourite and finished third behind the winner <strong>Gumdrops</strong> and second placed <strong>Saltaire.</strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1c_HV8-Gj5spazkwT83PescTRDWB_J8Vh"><img width="450" height="304" title="race 4_crockett stakes_fin9sh 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_crockett stakes_fin9sh 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1VwiGhq_0VjH7XBNZbnOdme_A3z0K8Mei"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Gumdrops </strong>tackles <strong>Sheva</strong> as they gallop to the finishing post</font></em></p><p>A Group 2 race over 1600 metres, the <em>Crystal Mile</em> was next to run and resulted in a win for <strong>Prowess</strong>, who just beat <strong>Antino</strong> with race leader <strong>Tuvalu</strong> holding on for a close third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=189pCrRKTNOcaDnsS2qxg3Q2T9fHzGkQq"><img width="450" height="324" title="race 5_crystal mile_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_crystal mile_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1aLLcovqet7BvwKuLYJcOu6BQcTO6eUsZ"></a><br><em><font size="2">Crystal Mile finish – <strong>Prowess</strong> (yellow silks) prevails over <strong>Antino</strong> and <strong>Tuvalu</strong></font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1-TlYvobJWY_h4l0IEVYJb98y7ZoSaUIf"><img width="450" height="328" title="race 5_crystal mile_prowess 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_crystal mile_prowess 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1XSddiRsR4tfKprHR988MLDYyNz11RzTL"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Prowess </strong>on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1F_M1_NCM_pkcJe9ll2uZOIglzg8huzey"><img width="450" height="294" title="race 5_crystal mile_antino 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_crystal mile_antino 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1wDX1tub2H79C0FPaGLCVyN6ob3JBpEo2"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Antino </strong>– a handsome beast - on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1FDRmVMwZwA1fFxGA-PMtEx9jxMgTtam-"><img width="450" height="302" title="race 5_crystal mile_tuvalu 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_crystal mile_tuvalu 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=15S0g_MTWHdCgJHGufG961FeOFWv2nd2f"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Tuvalu </strong>on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>Race 6, the Group 2 <em>Fillies Classic</em>, also run over 1600 metres, resulted in another close finish with<strong> Skybird</strong> sustaining a long run from the back of the field to pip<strong> Grizinger Belle</strong> at the post. </p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1JJR78hhwOBxaW3dJfG0hIyHPcEp0GWWx"><img width="450" height="287" title="race 6_fillies classic_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_fillies classic_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=12EuurSAV2ykpg2gQ7ux27FwijIQPjSm5"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Skybird </strong>about to overtake <strong>Grizinger Belle</strong> as they thunder up the straight</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=17KW4Eir6DjrkdxHW_ge40fl_URHL5xzY"><img width="450" height="362" title="race 6_fillies classic_skybird 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_fillies classic_skybird 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Z7YmQhW8Ypt-h2SPoXu32KZ-95YAoS9o"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Skybird </strong>on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>As the first of the Group 1 races was the <em>Manikato Stakes</em>, scheduled as Race 8, there was only one more race before it was run.</p><p>This was the Group 2 <em>Drummond Golf Vase</em>, won by <strong>Apulia </strong>by two lengths from <strong>Verdad, </strong>with <strong>Air Assault </strong>running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1jhvCkSXXc9Oms9rr3IXNfhzWPyWekxJX"><img width="450" height="291" title="race 7_golf vase_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_golf vase_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1kbVa96iIMLAnXDcgWaPtB2_c5lC_IhlB"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Apulia </strong>holds off <strong>Verdad</strong> to win the Drummond Golf Vase</font></em></p><p>In the dim distant past the <em>Manikato Stakes</em> used to be the first Group 1 race of the Spring Racing Season run in mid September, and the only race meeting I attended back in the early 2000s. I saw <strong>Miss Andretti</strong> win it in 2006 and <strong>Gold Edition</strong> win it in 2007 and do recall <strong>Spark of Life</strong> victorious on two occasions in 2004 and 2005.</p><p>The 2023 edition of the race is newly added to the <em>Cox Plate</em> daytime meeting, it previously being run on Friday night since 2012.</p><p>Star New Zealand mare <strong>Imperatriz </strong>was the major attraction on <em>Cox Plate</em> day, set to run in the <em>Manikato Stakes</em>, and she didn’t disappoint, winning easily by over three lengths from fellow mare <strong>I Am Me</strong> with <strong>Uncommon James</strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=10V3zDV94-6ILr1civSpy_Kx8mL8gLPkb"><img width="450" height="334" title="race 8_manikato stakes_imperatriz 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_manikato stakes_imperatriz 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Uj9TOg_oXa_8VxTfyEW2Gf0xY2CBixfD"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Imperatriz</strong> wins the Manikato Stakes with ease</font></em></p><p>By winning the 2023 <em>Manikato Stakes</em>, she accomplished a rare feat, being the first horse to win the three Group 1 Moonee Valley sprints – <em>William Reid Stakes</em>, <em>Moir Stakes</em> and <em>Manikato Stakes</em> – in a calendar year.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1cOIx4PhnAxeEEv0O4scH8CLoKjQhX_CR"><img width="450" height="379" title="race 8_manikato stakes_imperatriz_parade 7" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_manikato stakes_imperatriz_parade 7" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1JkRW7kjQLndePRIySqJY6NCMjljSto9D"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Imperatriz</strong> parades up the straight after winning the Manikato Stakes</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1P5m4RhhGYnNZZXJ6JmIsZsbbqhClOxnp"><img width="450" height="349" title="race 8_manikato stakes_i am me 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_manikato stakes_i am me 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1rzbkiyiDnQ7jG-mhD1pXYoNKo0b88re-"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>I Am Me</strong></font></em> </p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1bpDpqWeXbLkkdNKeh3SWaZaSqyRPVjvC"><img width="450" height="396" title="race 8_manikato stakes_uncommon james 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_manikato stakes_uncommon james 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1VjFPLoa5DFDP_qlys0IXva-8BaV_aL3K"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Uncommon James</font></em></strong> </p><p>After the gratifying result of the <em>Manikato Stakes</em>, the <em>Cox Plate</em> could have been underwhelming, but of course it never is being, as the sign said, it is Australia’s Best Race. </p><p>And my favourite race.</p><p>The twelve runners represented a classy field that included the tried and true such as <strong>Mr Brightside</strong>, <strong>Zaaki </strong>, <strong>Alligator Blood</strong>, <strong>Gold Trip</strong> and <strong>Duais </strong>against Internationals<strong> Romantic Warrior</strong> and <strong>Victoria Road</strong>, and three year old light weighted contenders <strong>Militarise</strong> and <strong>King Colorado</strong> – in a word an intriguing mix of runners.</p><p>There was a bit of pomp and ceremony as usual with a bandstand being set up and the National Anthem was sung before singer James Johnson launched into <em>Horses</em>, the large crowd singing along to words that they knew. </p><p>Hong Kong star <strong>Romantic Warrior</strong> was the hot favourite, though there was plenty of support for <strong>Alligator Blood.</strong></p><p>As the race panned out, <strong>King Colorado</strong> and<strong> Zaaki</strong> were the front runners with <strong>Mr Brightside</strong>, <strong>Alligator Blood</strong> and <strong>Romantic Warrior</strong> all handy in third or fourth position. It was a frantic finish with <strong>Mr Brightside</strong> stealing the lead close to the post, but <strong>Romantic Warrior</strong>, running wide won the race by the narrowest of margins (a photo finish) to claim the prize for Hong Kong. <strong> Mr Brightside</strong> hung on for second and <strong>Alligator Blood</strong> ran third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1kA3cPvQ8ypWWXXCPPvE-9TCk3opdiWBI"><img width="450" height="246" title="cox plate_finish 12" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_finish 12" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ptScb3eao6F_FFJeW8CGOt1MrpiKXbCP"></a><br><em><font size="2">Cox Plate finish – <strong>Romantic Warrior</strong> (no 1) overtaking the leaders</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1uBQwc8TOkxHscbSFBJyEDkvgEQwK0A2C"><img width="450" height="259" title="cox plate_romantic warrior 5" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_romantic warrior 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1_KpZ5fJ4YP9TVwXNqVtSD9bSTLN-wRs9"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Romantic Warrior</strong> in the winners rug with elated connections</font></em></p><p>The afternoon remained fine throughout, the stiff wind a tad chill at times, but warm when the sun broke free of the clouds.</p><p>And so ended another <em>Cox Plate</em>, after which I headed home- catching a tram at Moonee Valley Junction to the 510 Bus Stop, where there was a bit of a wait for it to arrive.</p><p>Next Saturday is <strong>Derby Day</strong> at Flemington, which I’ll probably attend.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-9693228279911845072023-10-22T19:55:00.001+11:002023-10-22T19:55:35.507+11:00Without A Fight- Caulfield Cup Review<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ma013DlbHEtZel7Y-bzZHfiSe9d77IeT"><img width="450" height="223" title="caulfield cup_finish 3" style="display: inline;" alt="caulfield cup_finish 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1zY3pAutmAdASgAUlqQMC1VC8c8jo2SYq"></a><br><em><font size="2">Caulfield Cup – <strong>Without A Fight & West Wind Blows</strong> battle to the finish</font></em></p><p>Despite the support card for <em>Caulfield Cup</em> meeting not being that interesting, the feature event offered an intriguing conundrum with the large field composed of several International runners and seasoned familiar stayers.</p><p>So forth I went last Saturday to take in some racing action at the track, arriving around 2.00 pm.</p><p>The <em>Caulfield Cup</em> was scheduled for 5.15pm so it wasn’t a terribly long sojourn.</p><p>A big crowd was in attendance, so it was hard to get a position on the fence to practice photography, but after finally tracking down my friend Rebecca we settled in a spot not too far from the finishing post.</p><p>We even managed to get to the stalls area, though didn’t come across the runners we were interested in other than <strong>Gold Trip</strong> who was the <em>Caulfield Cup</em> favourite.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1rrUU78RwetSoyb9E5lhNDBliI6pQx4o1"><img width="450" height="446" title="stalls_gold trip 2" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_gold trip 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1bs3tPskeuQ767HytFdvKzvg-kbAhUdhO"></a> <br><em><font size="2"><strong>Gold Trip</strong> in his stall</font></em></p><p>Returning trackside, we were back on the fence for the running of Race 5, the Group 2 <em>Thousand Guineas Prelude</em>, a race for three year old fillies over 1400 metres.</p><p><strong>Coeur Volante</strong> was the winner, beating <strong>Vivi Air</strong> by a bit over a length, with <strong>Zourion</strong> snagging third place from <strong>Moesha</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=18AhcTiOpco8swG3oHuPy3Vt-hyIOqkvj"><img width="450" height="343" title="Race 5_thousand guineas prelude_coeur volante 1" style="display: inline;" alt="Race 5_thousand guineas prelude_coeur volante 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1GkQxDyBqBdwYCF6vGRL44v6bvIRFKQFa"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Coeur Volante</strong> on her way to winning the Thousand Guineas Prelude</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ldLxf-iVY0VawePU7rEQJseeAKTaAnOr"><img width="450" height="330" title="Race 5_thousand guineas prelude_vivi air 2." style="display: inline;" alt="Race 5_thousand guineas prelude_vivi air 2." src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1To6Yh9BNI4vvBYjs_RQVSyNXPZq8SczM"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Vivi Air</strong> on her way to barriers</font></em></p><p>Race 6 was the Group 2 <em>McCafe Sprint</em>, a 1000 metre dash down the straight that resulted in a win for <strong>Doull</strong>, who defeated<strong> Spacewalk</strong> and <strong>Generation.</strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Lrczaxv-oiUkij6ih8L4clur-BG9vsL6"><img width="450" height="278" title="race 6_mccafe sprint_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_mccafe sprint_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1RwgxWkdDxvz4w2n0_iQVMTHSamzQsMP2"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Doull </strong>(red silks) outguns <strong>Spacewalk</strong> to win the McCafe Sprint</font></em></p><p><strong>Skew Whiff</strong> started as favourite for Race 7, the Group 2 <em>Tristarc Stakes</em>, but<strong> Wrote to Arataki</strong> who led from the start, held on to win from<strong> Shuffle Dancer</strong> and <strong>Call Di.</strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1916D_P4PdCwUgwMOuoJV8n4dRPg5uAP_"><img width="450" height="347" title="race 7_tristarc stakes_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_tristarc stakes_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1CJjtNS1Y339NznBxmQtg5curoSTmJLVq"></a> <br><em><font size="2"><strong>Wrote to Arataki</strong> wins the Tristarc Stakes</font></em></p><p>After the running of the<em> Tristarc Stakes</em>, there was only one more race to run before the <em>Caulfield Cup</em>. </p><p>This was the Group 3<em> Moonga Stakes</em> and <strong>Buffalo River</strong>, race favourite, led field from the start and won easily from <strong>Climbing Star</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1SWYwuCulo2tl6UYrWwPfiavzj1I5XYmg"><img width="450" height="310" title="race 8_moonga stakes_buffalo river 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_moonga stakes_buffalo river 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1nqtCGmL091jAn8ODNCapJqX64EsaVO1z"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Buffalo River</strong> on his way to winning the Moonga Stakes</font></em></p><p>A big field of eighteen runners faced the starter in the <em>Caulfield Cup</em>, so I suppose it was really no surprise that International runners <strong>West Wind Blows</strong> (the favourite) and <strong>Without A Fight</strong> ended up running the quinella with top weight <strong>Gold Trip </strong>finishing<strong> </strong>third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=15rYFptt8_TNMbfDyiVQxdxBcxVxz69W0"><img width="450" height="321" title="caulfield cup_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="caulfield cup_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1nMSElQMrnEg5P9U2MxkXA4jP4M1B6eY0"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Without A Fight</strong> (no 2) about to overtake <strong>West Wind Blows</strong> in the Caulfield Cup</font></em></p><p>With the Caulfield Cup run and won, I headed for the station and home.</p><p>Next Saturday is <strong>Cox Plate Day</strong>, so hopefully it will be a more interesting afternoon at the races than <strong>Caulfield Cup Day</strong>.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-49224786711028038302023-10-16T14:24:00.001+11:002023-10-16T14:30:21.937+11:00Break Dancing, Rappers and Racing – Caulfield Guineas Day<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1-uBsgblWQWw4Cer3Zjb9cGbYhhqYaX4P"><img width="450" height="279" title="race 9_caul guineas_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 9_caul guineas_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1RLJQ2hfOWPUGqlNDGuusWZtPusmAPgAG"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Griff</strong> wins the Caulfield Guineas from<strong> Veight</strong></font></em></p><p>You may wonder at the connection between break dancing, rapping and racing, but my Saturday afternoon’s jaunt to the Caulfield Guineas meeting actually involved all three activities.</p><p>As the race I most wanted to see was scheduled as the last of ten, I took my time getting to the track and arrived as Race 4, the <em>Northwood Plume Stakes</em> was in progress. I watched it on a big screen and noted that <strong>She Dances</strong> was the winner.</p><p>After that race I headed trackside – a longish walk - to locate my friend Rebecca, who I found as usual near the finishing post.</p><p>A visit to stalls area was then in order to see if<strong> Amelia’s Jewel</strong> had arrived yet. </p><p>However, even though <strong>Amelia’s Jewel</strong> was not in her stall we did come across the <em>Caulfield Guineas</em> favourite <strong>Militarize</strong> in his stall. At his previous starts he had won the Group 1 <em>Sires Produce Stakes</em>, the Group 1 <em>Champagne Stakes</em> and the Group 1 <em>Golden Rose</em> in Sydney.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1O_iUMBsAv_ZaBjiH4beTRpILZA4sMQ7X"><img width="450" height="478" title="stalls_militarise 2" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_militarise 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1nm1VBPiLn9jDOzAgaBdnV4hCDsk7Wnk4"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Militarize</strong> in his stall</font></em></p><p>Whilst we were out the back, we checked out the on course entertainment, which amusingly was some kind of Break Dance/Hip Hop competition.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=19zzZnWFZ_XWGqpSXzDvllzWz0sgHDrcw"><img width="450" height="326" title="breakdance 1" style="display: inline;" alt="breakdance 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=14lsodFAK7r_BWG66M7SaS_I0kK_Pwark"></a><br><em><font size="2">The B Boys face off before demonstrating their skills as break dancers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Ac01B6OhXvPZ5_8rt7wWmgpXXn7HUNSt"><img width="450" height="289" title="breakdance 3" style="display: inline;" alt="breakdance 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1VPS-ry_dXpg3SHf7cwenk65M9z6lm2xt"></a><br><em><font size="2">The guy in red went first with his opponent watching from the sidelines</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1pw6motWnfFC9uv4pHKn4gViPXOPvUEkj"><img width="450" height="424" title="breakdance 6" style="display: inline;" alt="breakdance 6" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1bYcN9Ac33P1_ME7XgwFcPJDvhTMB02m9"></a><br><em><font size="2">The guy in blue takes his turn</font></em></p><p>While all this happened the band on stage (electric organ/commentary and a drummer) played breakdance music rather loudly.</p><p>We returned trackside before Race 5 , the Group 2 <em>Schillaci Stakes</em>, a sprint over 1100 metres, was set to run, and squeezed in on the fence closest to the finish line.</p><p><strong>Asfoora</strong> led from the start to the finish and won by over 3 lengths from <strong>Uncommon James</strong>, with <strong>Chain of Lightning</strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1CUXqOxP-g56vc1sQCgPCcPg_2hhUYxQf"><img width="450" height="330" title="race 5_schillaci stakes_asfoora 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_schillaci stakes_asfoora 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1yLqj572E-XXn4FBgvuiRo5pMEJIpHTO1"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Asfoora </strong>burns up the straight unopposed</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1mdT--_RGhT0NGbyJchQKR6LGIZQvtZHW"><img width="450" height="238" title="race 5_schillaci stakes_uncommon james_chain of lightning 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_schillaci stakes_uncommon james_chain of lightning 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1WNuUfBFBY0Ni-aioW-x_HGoqD08W7afP"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Uncommon James</strong> (no 2) and <strong>Chain of Lightning</strong> running second and third</font></em></p><p>The weather bureau had predicted a rainy afternoon, but apart from the occasional speck, it surprisingly remained dry though windy, and was even sunny every so often.</p><p>The <em>Weekend Hussler</em>, a listed race over 1400 metres, was up next and was won by<strong> Ayrton</strong> from <strong>Stageman</strong> and<strong> Rubamos</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=132KOOhQ7bwqo9FsuIxi4fz9v4zdc-pj3"><img width="450" height="240" title="race 6_weekend hussler_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_weekend hussler_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1b-0SVBBtIPwG4QdVErLxr2BWSzKWgXoX"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Ayrton</strong> wins the Weekend Hussler</font></em></p><p>Formerly called the <em>Caulfield Stakes</em>, the<em> Might and Power</em> was the first of the Group 1 races to run and <strong>Alligator Blood</strong>, second favourite to Irish horse <strong>Just Fine</strong>, proved he was back to his best with a determined win, defeating 2019 <em>Melbourne Cup</em> winner, <strong>Vow and Declare</strong> by two lengths with<strong> Duais</strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1FsjDJkRl-hj3gT7SgVo3oOsi5oiaHiLC"><img width="450" height="313" title="race 7_might and power_alligator blood 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_might and power_alligator blood 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1OsbsRgFiPQ35NorO2mMIt0LDZ6QJEKNM"></a> <br><em><font size="2"><strong>Alligator Blood</strong> on his way to winning the Might and Power</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ZjIQ5qhQo24xgpQ_62a5GLMqjXtXN0r9"><img width="450" height="351" title="race 7_might and power_alligator blood 6" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_might and power_alligator blood 6" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1GcS7NCI01npx5YuobJy3Gk6GaptqUiE3"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Alligator Blood</strong> returns to scale with the clerk of course</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=12RCirO2eXRGg7a7GpJsaWjdQVnQqSuLk"><img width="450" height="244" title="race 7_might and power_vow and declare_duais 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_might and power_vow and declare_duais 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1vDDQSNEEIkdvrdEpi9UoigW4F-8_dEHx"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Vow and Declare</strong> (no 2) and<strong> Duais</strong> vie for second place</font></em></p><p>We killed time before the next race by heading back to the stalls to see if <strong>Amelia’s Jewel</strong> had arrived, which she had.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1sTi2ZaaJbOMmRo0JvmWxZF4tiQM809SA"><img width="450" height="424" title="stalls_amelia's jewel 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_amelia's jewel 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1CgdK_1j44ZWbbhdS7xziW7j9xLBIZMqJ"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Amelia’s Jewel</strong> in her stall</font></em></p><p>There was one more race before the <em>Caulfield Guineas</em> was set to run. This was the Group 3 <em>Catanach’s Jewellers Vase</em>, for mares, run over 1600 metres.</p><p><strong>Wishlor Lass</strong>, one of the few favourites to win on the day, didn’t disappoint her backers, leading all the way to narrowly win from <strong>Barbie’s Fox.</strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1T_Pdj0iSQV13hPpa25ucTwyoJU-4ti57"><img width="450" height="287" title="race 8_vase_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_vase_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1kQadzEbLHfSaeR3XX5Qu0LX9gz4As5Qz"></a> <br><em><font size="2"><strong>Wishlor Lass</strong> (pink silks) battles out the finish with <strong>Barbie’s Fox</strong></font></em></p><p><strong>Militarize</strong> was the hot favourite for the <em>Caulfield Guineas</em>, but he missed the start and stymied his chances, but the winner <strong>Griff </strong>led from the start and held off a challenge from <strong>Veight </strong>to score by 1.75 lengths. <strong>Steparty </strong>finished third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1oQV3XbY9xykxMbHAZjANEqRmJhr5oHrk"><img width="450" height="336" title="race 9_caul guineas_griff 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 9_caul guineas_griff 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1DnbXfW5PQK1XiewerlP3PGxeMV3uBgFx"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Griff</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1NV_wWMTsngimiv0nXLZ9xyG0YhvZ4rvq"><img width="450" height="338" title="race 9_caul guineas_veight 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 9_caul guineas_veight 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1DZFhO-3HH5rGPYLb8AgNtX2XZnDs7dZE"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Veight</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=10k00_-uP9umXPTC77uL8LkqHFr9Jtyui"><img width="450" height="371" title="race 9_caul guineas_steparty 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 9_caul guineas_steparty 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1oWaipSDTX6WNoctVj008Qm0XH6U8eja0"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Steparty </strong>on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>The <em>Caulfield Guineas</em> trifecta paid a fortune, well over $1.500, with <strong>Griff</strong> paying $36.80 for the win.</p><p>We were obliged to wait for another 40 minutes for <strong>Amelia’s Jewel’s</strong> race, the Group 1 <em>Toorak Handicap</em> which proved disappointing, <strong>Amelia’s Jewel</strong> failing to run a place.</p><p>The finish was a battle between <strong>Attrition </strong>and <strong>Antino </strong>with the former winning narrowly in the end. <strong>Banker’s Choice</strong> snagged third spot.</p><p>The trifecta paid an even bigger dividend than the <em>Caulfield Guineas</em>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=10gZnmyNlbK0CP5Oo4IY4pf26y-QOLN8o"><img width="450" height="287" title="race 10_toorak handicap_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 10_toorak handicap_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1EKb-6asTVu9hYuZhScY4xk6eRiOsQ-5k"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Attrition & Antino</strong> battle to the finish line in the Toorak Handicap</font></em></p><p>All was not lost however as I managed to snap some nice photos of <strong>Amelia’s Jewel</strong> as she was on her way to the barriers.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1cUrxZLTbSB47Z5r5wnBUK38lRaJP8E_B"><img width="450" height="341" title="race 10_toorak handicap_amelia's jewel 11" style="display: inline;" alt="race 10_toorak handicap_amelia's jewel 11" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1g_xOmK5_XF-VpDXVXEHalni0ONNQBQay"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Amelia’s Jewel</font></em></strong> </p><p>The main race in Sydney was of course<em> The Everest</em> which we watched on the big screen at Caulfield. <strong>Think About It</strong> won the bickies from <strong>I Wish I Win</strong> with<strong> Private Eye</strong> running third.</p><p>Next Saturday is <strong>Caulfield Cup Day</strong>. Let’s hope the weather is alright, i.e. not raining or too windy.</p><p>On the way home from the races, on the Hurstbridge train, I was astounded to see and hear a young rapper doing his stuff in the same carriage as myself. </p><p>Who would have thought that after watching the break dancers at Caulfield, a rapper would distract me on the way home. </p><p>A strange coincidence!</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-20190801425932983442023-10-09T14:35:00.001+11:002023-10-10T10:41:05.001+11:00In the Mood for Romance – Turnbull Stakes Day Review<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ZVNwSfzy7McXJCbWiCADR_7y3rajuh6G"><img width="450" height="285" title="turnbull stakes_finish 3" style="display: inline;" alt="turnbull stakes_finish 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1CQFSCShuez2GmiT3YsVTWcai5qkIP0XA"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Gold Trip</strong> wins the 2023 Turnbull Stakes</font></em></p><p>Though it was not the most exciting race meeting, I decided to attend <strong>Turnbull Stakes Day</strong> at Flemington last Saturday, ostensibly to see the hyped Hong Kong runner <strong>Romantic Warrior</strong>. </p><p>I also wanted to remember my photographer friend George who had passed away suddenly on 3rd October 2023.</p><p>He was an amiable soul with a mischievous sense of humour – one of the good guys - and an excellent photographer who will be greatly missed.</p><p>You can check out his horse racing photos on this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057393132387">Facebook page</a>.</p><p>I’m sure if George was still with us he would have attended the <em>Turnbull Stakes</em>, as he was always interested in the unusual or quirky side of the sport and would probably have attended to see <strong>Romantic Warrior</strong>.</p><p>Anyway, back to my afternoon at the races, I arrived at the track around 2.00 pm and headed to the stalls area to see if I could get a photo of <strong>Romantic Warrior</strong>. He wasn’t in his stall (no 86), but I caught sight of him walking around the parade ring, and noted that he looked a classy animal.</p><p>In the Stall 87, was the English horse <strong>West Wind Blows</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=15046BCpOn3vzAUPYgLLTppGl22mfCe6p"><img width="450" height="437" title="stalls_west wind blows 6" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_west wind blows 6" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1jSGC5h9XUHHRkAI82b-uGkAvpQYu9jtR"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">West Wind Blows</font></em></strong></p><p>I hung around a bit and eventually <strong>Romantic Warrior</strong> was brought back to his stall.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1kvrBlgUDpYITFcRzZ34OaufX-gi4eTEH"><img width="450" height="300" title="stalls_romantic warrior 4." style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_romantic warrior 4." src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1U1D5gSRzLx8Gn9I-2eDWIt5eqkhMKE1z"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Romantic Warrior</font></em></strong></p><p>After visiting the stalls area I headed back trackside to practice photography on Race 5, the <em>Danehill Stakes</em>, a Group 2 event run over 1,000 metres.</p><p><strong>Archo Nacho</strong> was the starting favourite, but he finished unplaced, a narrow victory going to 3 year old filly <strong>Stretan Angel</strong> who outgunned second favourite<strong> I Am Unstoppable</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1tOoGRe-TclocDlWmxix-Mw-KcTTD1bP6"><img width="450" height="368" title="race 5_danehill stakes_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_danehill stakes_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1OpsNT9WyhcHB7b5BsL1yR4-8-fCXJ-pR"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Stretan Angel</strong> wins the Danehill Stakes</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1SyyLEje_q-yd-4BqCBgt5laKmPYjAGFB"><img width="450" height="351" title="race 5_danehill stakes_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_danehill stakes_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1AGQZrQtMjRFmvcu7_0hatCST4M458B9a"></a><br><strong><font size="2"><em>I Am Unstoppable</em></font></strong></p><p>The afternoon was overcast for the main and the rail was out by 9 metres, so I’m surprised my photos turned out better than I imagined they would.</p><p>Race 6. the Group 2 <em>Rose of Kingston Stakes</em> was one for the mares and run over 1400 metres. American mare <strong>Princess Grace</strong> was the favourite, but she was beaten by <strong>Life Lessons</strong>, and <strong>Wrote to Arataki</strong> ran third, the first three home all racing on the pace.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1SMIxMQPFy7sKcJzQAEDKHWMvUmOcUs5H"><img width="450" height="279" title="race 6_rose of kingston stakes_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_rose of kingston stakes_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=17IsnyyPZJ3pqPX8ud4Mjvn0ADiXTKAa9"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Life Lessons</strong> wins the Rose of Kingston Stakes from <strong>Princess Grace</strong></font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1lfQPufdlmeBarzPRlt_KwuXJKCa3dgwT"><img width="450" height="338" title="race 6_rose of kingston stakes_life lessons 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_rose of kingston stakes_life lessons 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1gd5M4CvkXw5cxsPWbLpOHb2Hjm8fgFiC"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Life Lessons</strong> on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1b1LN7e2M1660lg6zYl18YprTeVdsWov1"><img width="450" height="266" title="race 6_rose of kingston stakes_princess grace 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_rose of kingston stakes_princess grace 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1UNz4KDaFQsyg4osy_ATfKTzSMPKfx9JZ"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Princess Grace</strong> on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1E-qiq3xYL_RREE05l4AfcD2-hzUrSOtF"><img width="450" height="390" title="race 6_rose of kingston stakes_wrote to arataki 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_rose of kingston stakes_wrote to arataki 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1361zDMhX0PLO7LcUtlY72NY3rqnwbHYW"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Wrote to Arataki</strong> on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>The <em>Bart Cummings</em>, a race over 2520 metres, was of interest due to the winner being exempt from ballot for the <em>Melbourne Cup</em>. </p><p>A huge field of 16 runners were competing in the event, with <strong>First Immortal</strong> being the starting favourite, but he was relegated to second by the winner <strong>Future History</strong>. <strong>Serpentine</strong> finished third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=19Nw1n3YniVCQ1BOluWFHnXCtxZC9KS2J"><img width="450" height="264" title="race 7_bart cummings_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_bart cummings_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ERvoEwjSnqlPE1GLoiYArKVDztn-0KKx"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Future History</strong> wins the Bart Cummings from <strong>First Immortal</strong></font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1HdBwO3b5hE_d2IV0ykrbssE1ZBH75jct"><img width="450" height="334" title="race 7_bart cummings_future history 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_bart cummings_future history 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=14Sl_o2cQAfe3Fnli53DzqhVsuV6mBQsb"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Future History</strong> returns to scale</font></em></p><p>The feature Group 1 race, the <em>Turnbull Stakes</em> (2000 metres) was the next to run. It has been won in the past by first class horses, notably by <strong>Winx</strong> in 2017 and 2018. <strong>Verry Elleegant</strong> won in 2020. Last year <strong>Smokin’ Romans</strong> won the money.</p><p>This year’s edition had a classy field and <strong>Romantic Warrior</strong> was the warm favourite. However, last year’s <em>Melbourne Cup</em> winner, <strong>Gold Trip</strong>, who raced towards the back of the field zoomed up the straight and outclassed all and sundry to win by 1.75 metres from<strong> West Wind Blows</strong> and <strong>Soulcombe</strong>. <strong>Romantic Warrior</strong> managed to run fourth, his colours somewhat lowered.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1QCT6csg-cithHp2ZTNjwmKk53IJZTZYK"><img width="450" height="292" title="turnbull stakes_gold trip 6" style="display: inline;" alt="turnbull stakes_gold trip 6" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ydWJNZsXGEOE5_YWfTA1ECkYN-ZvxghE"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Gold Trip</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1V2ERthfVonhfxV2N84U4n58smkTFJBtd"><img width="450" height="308" title="turnbull stakes_west wind blows 1" style="display: inline;" alt="turnbull stakes_west wind blows 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1UPSwznjq9KLWdh0Srfbbt8TCu4UYOqLE"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>West Wind Blows</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=12M0HgsGGJnmZeV7xGmSjuEyFM0ip69hs"><img width="450" height="336" title="turnbull stakes_soulcombe 1" style="display: inline;" alt="turnbull stakes_soulcombe 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1pjSMPyJ9ySGYSo0q3VpuXzCUquoSHMdb"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Soulcombe </strong>on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=12PAJ5GkADJ6PuTmLav-17VrztzKDYn1D"><img width="446" height="361" title="turnbull stakes_romantic warrior 2" style="display: inline;" alt="turnbull stakes_romantic warrior 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1NtPGuyCl6Jeg6rBuUnlUh8voq_SmE7R1"></a><br><em><strong>Romantic Warrior</strong> on his way to the barriers – thankfully a reasonable photo</em></p><p>With the <em>Turnbull Stakes</em> done and dusted I headed home, not staying for the <em>Gilgai Stakes</em> which was won by <strong>Star Patrol</strong>.</p><p>Next Saturday is <strong>Caulfield Guineas Day</strong> which features three Group 1 races – <em>Caulfield Guineas</em>, <em>Toorak Handicap</em> (starring<strong> Amelia’s Jewel</strong>) and the <em>Might and Power</em> – a much more interesting race meeting than last Saturday’s offerings. </p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-54847483207448785202023-09-25T13:49:00.001+10:002023-09-25T19:39:59.992+10:00Underwood Stakes Day Review<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1PLkS1bpQTY3vHtVw0mm_Nm8iKdgw0A7E"><img width="450" height="294" title="race 9_underwood_finish 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 9_underwood_finish 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1yn-IAelK73mTFDYEtItfeS9plTWsTjsS"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Alligator Blood</strong> wins the Group 1 Underwood Stakes</font></em></p><p>As the best races were to be run towards the late afternoon, I took my time getting to Caulfield, arriving just after 1.10 pm.</p><p>I watched, but did not photograph Race 3, the <em>Pancare Recycle Plate</em>, which was won by <strong>Cardigan Queen</strong> from <strong>Seradess</strong> and <strong>Le Danseuse Rouge</strong>.</p><p>The earlier races were not that interesting, but I got in some photography practice during the next few races.</p><p>Race 4 was the <em>Here For The Horses Handicap</em> for mares run over 1400 metres, which resulted in a win for the Peter Moody & Katherine Coleman runner <strong>Nunthorpe,</strong> who won easily from <strong>Frigid</strong> and <strong>Yellow Sam.</strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1gl3S2nZePXiFNk6v_Jhv8SSUpv-cdh-e"><img width="450" height="283" title="race 4_nunthorpe 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_nunthorpe 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=11Y0EpNy8sN-FZVNDUkpE7kQVa3yKh3J-"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Nunthorpe</strong> on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><strong>Oz Empress</strong> won Race 5, the <em>Jim Moloney Stakes</em>, with <strong>De Sonic Boom</strong> and <strong>Poifect</strong> filling the minor places.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1MkH19P7S3LP5O8NPRnB6-rSP0jSaPqNE"><img width="450" height="283" title="race 5_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1xtAkPyTI_WvrdeALnEmgFJ8L7ndvI-wW"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Oz Empress</strong> leads to the finish ahead of <strong>De Sonic Boom</strong> and <strong>Poifect</strong></font></em></p><p><strong>Buffalo River</strong> was the victor in Race 6, the<em> Testa Rossa,</em> leading from the start to the finish to narrowly hold out challengers <strong>Savannah Cloud</strong> and <strong>Corner Pocket</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1p5_UekeuU9y0d4mSIGNbQ9muGxlkQ2Og"><img width="450" height="296" title="race 6_testa rossa_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_testa rossa_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1AxPrDrEfYEa4GRdyY7xodgvbky2gRxi4"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Buffalo River</strong> wins the Testa Rossa</font></em></p><p>The next race held considerably more interest, it being the Group 3 <em>Caulfield Guineas Prelude</em>, where <strong>Steparty</strong>, winner of all five of his starts won the bickies from<strong> Southport Tycoon</strong> and <strong>Scentify </strong>by a short margin.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1xw0eMsPnHa8_2aGlwnkysiV0018skF3f"><img width="450" height="278" title="race 7_guineas prelude_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_guineas prelude_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1FHYv7bjYmDOXPGJdzua2iMCyiR9BT-LO"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Steparty</strong> (no 3) coming wide to overtake the leaders of the Guineas Prelude</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1-4XmIwbsgiUL0c4rBh4ABDWo5C_1GgFa"><img width="450" height="300" title="race 7_guineas prelude_finish 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_guineas prelude_finish 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1FcOWZTde2MqPFS_YGt4cy2ET4OObD4T2"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Steparty</strong> about to hit the front as they race to the finish line</font></em></p><p>There was one more race before the feature Group 1 and this was the Group 3 <em>MRC Foundation Cup</em> (registered as the <em>Naturalism Stakes</em>), run over 2000 metres, where the winner earns a chance to run in the <em>Caulfield Cup</em>.</p><p><strong>Uncle Bryn</strong> won the privilege from race favourite <strong>Floating Artist</strong> with <strong>Alaskan God</strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1B6ml6e7GzHXMs_bNMVSZfbHpp6j5Z5V9"><img width="450" height="400" title="race 8 _naturalism _finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8 _naturalism _finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1IVAlX_7vQmCmsNkMfxkWcRmFR7vYMscr"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Uncle Bryn</strong> on his way to winning the MRC Foundation Cup</font></em></p><p>The Group 1 <em>Underwood Stakes</em> is run over 1800 metres and has been won by top class horses, most memorably from my point of view by <a href="http://catpolitics.blogspot.com/2013/09/dundeel-steals-jewels-glory-underwood.html"><strong>It’s A Dundeel ten years ago in 2013</strong></a><strong>,</strong> where he defeated star mare<strong> Atlantic Jewel</strong>, the one and only time that she was beaten in a race. </p><p>This year’s edition had attracted a good field of stayers that included the likes of <strong>Vow And Declare</strong> who had won the 2019 <em>Melbourne Cup</em>.</p><p><strong>Alligator Blood</strong> was the warm favourite and he prevailed, winning by over length from <strong>Tuvalu</strong> with <strong>Duais </strong>running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1rxFLqxTlCixI3lDvh6wTTiHiiDJbgKcU"><img width="450" height="362" title="race 9_underwood_alligator blood 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 9_underwood_alligator blood 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1zhJHZw6tlTMYetYUY3cY9x9tfBFELoD6"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Alligator Blood</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>It was a bright sunny day last Saturday, perfect for an afternoon at the races.</p><p>Caulfield Racecourse is going through some kind of upgrade, so several areas that were accessible in the past were off limits, but surprisingly it was relatively easy to get a position on the fence to take photos.</p><p>Let’s hope that by the time the <em>Caulfield Cup</em> is run the renovations will be less obstructive and more areas will be open.</p><p>The main race meeting next week is on Friday night at Moonee Valley with the Group 1 <em>Moir Stakes</em> being the feature event, starring New Zealand mare<strong> Imperatriz</strong>, so next Saturday I will be watching the racing action at home for a change.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-72931484660841292742023-09-18T20:02:00.001+10:002023-09-18T20:02:28.643+10:00Queens of the Turf – Makybe Diva Stakes Day<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1U81IrGYm5GX6v9oU3GE6kdsXf1XlL6pV"><img width="450" height="398" title="makybe diva statue 1" style="display: inline;" alt="makybe diva statue 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1wHzTkHuhX0afnxzFc_4NQ3H7S21NynAS"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Makybe Diva</strong> Statue at Flemington</font></em></p><p>When I read that <strong>Makybe Diva</strong>, three time Melbourne Cup winner, was to make a special appearance at Flemington, how could I not attend.</p><p>Fortunately there were no public transport disruptions last Saturday, so I arrived at Flemington shortly after 1.00 pm, in time for Race 3, <em>The Sofitel</em>, a race over 1400 metres.</p><p>This resulted in a win for<strong> Kalino</strong> who narrowly beat <strong>Umgawa</strong> and <strong>Detonator Jack.</strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1BEkyRhRWcd7jE4mFb-8kpZ9hO2XpLI7J"><img width="450" height="326" title="race 3_the sofitel_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 3_the sofitel_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1gwRNQpa5syD8BaJrE2A5J76hG3ZaWOrk"></a><br><em><font size="2">The Sofitel finish – <strong>Kalino</strong> is the widest in purple silks</font></em></p><p>With time in hand I decided to tramp up to the stalls area for a look at <strong>Makybe Diva</strong> who was in Stall number 1.</p><p>A big crowd of admirers surrounded her stall, but I managed to get a few photos, including one of her with Glen Boss who rode her in all three of her Melbourne Cup victories from 2003 to 2005.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1FC3hD5qLlevr21qvMrYa0_Sdaf7xVk8r"><img width="450" height="285" title="makybe diva_glen boss 2" style="display: inline;" alt="makybe diva_glen boss 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1SBPTCecVk9VLhbJQHCymKN4U2GyZ4wC2"></a><br><em><font size="2">Glen Boss is obviously delighted to see <strong>Makybe Diva</strong> again</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1hz4WEIXY_OR-kjvkjbgXxVL0CfdrEgkd"><img width="450" height="300" title="makybe diva 1" style="display: inline;" alt="makybe diva 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1oDfyWcAH3xWCJNVe01IAvdBf1tq7VzM_"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Makybe Diva</strong> in the stalls area</font></em></p><p>There was display on the public lawn close to her statue of symbols of her three Melbourne Cups.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1nf7Ntskq2EaBjRjTGMdf8EgaLYYKztvZ"><img width="450" height="373" title="makybe diva cups display 2" style="display: inline;" alt="makybe diva cups display 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1qfYh9PB1L5jZw0pnHl81UCMQ6RgugRRT"></a><br><font size="2"><em>Makybe Diva’s Cups Display</em></font></p><p>All this dilly dallying in the stalls caused me to miss Race 4, the <em>Poseidon Stakes</em>, but I had returned to my usual spot for Race 5, the <em>Exford Plate</em>, which was won by <strong>Griff</strong> from <strong>Surprise Coming</strong> and<strong> King of Fighters</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1e2AvXopEgI8hNjR7PzJtAnCh42_nGBHU"><img width="450" height="278" title="race 5_exford plate_finish 5" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_exford plate_finish 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1iUzsFgu25ESuCivWdmxRAWLnvl0Lb05A"></a><br><strong>Griff</strong> (no 8) is the widest with <strong>Surprise Coming</strong> in yellow silks</p><p>The feature race of the day was of course the <em>Makybe Diva Stakes</em>, scheduled as Race 7, so there was still one more race to run before it occurred. Luckily, the weather on Saturday was fine and sunny, so it was pleasant to bask in the sun after the chill winter we had recently experienced.</p><p>This was the <em>Cap D’Antibes Stakes</em>, a sprint over 1100 metres that had attracted a largish field of 19 runners.</p><p><strong>Shesallshenanigans</strong> (a mouthful of a name) was the victor at big odds, beating <strong>Stretan Angel</strong> and <strong>Skirt The Law</strong> to the post.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1TCaJVfq1WIaphE6GHNNhqr5PgWziWSze"><img width="450" height="336" title="race 6_cap d'antibes stakes_finsih 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_cap d'antibes stakes_finsih 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1AbhWq69VuKeV6R4Bnvnr1WThGV_4YGpr"></a><br><strong>Shesallshenanigans </strong>(foreground) wins the Cap D’Antibes Stakes.</p><p>Finally it was time for the <em>Makybe Diva Stakes</em> and the result was pretty much as predicted by the experts with <strong>Mr Brightside</strong>, tongue lolling out, winning the bickies from <strong>Alligator Blood</strong> with<strong> Osipenko</strong> running third and<strong> Princess Grace</strong> fourth.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Z70B_5uvpjgn6LjjehHUghjZHmVPEwDL"><img width="450" height="298" title="race 7_makybe diva stakes_finish 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_makybe diva stakes_finish 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1gqivpaAJ3M6nOC7QTzAwWAmll4-mtQhG"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Mr Brightside</strong> wins the 2023 Makybe Diva Stakes from<strong> Alligator Blood</strong></font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1dz92BjJrQdi1wspIWqHtS-CsaaXC_OIK"><img width="450" height="306" title="race 7_makybe diva stakes_mr brightside 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_makybe diva stakes_mr brightside 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1_QEadOrn-LmxWMPhqmj-_cc7BbaUGYly"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Mr Brightside</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1jssZ8ONInyjGeeNFUuifLXrrEuPibrHh"><img width="450" height="304" title="race 7_makybe diva stakes_alligator blood 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_makybe diva stakes_alligator blood 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1mXx0u5ThO0Qjxs7pQMh9lBblQvEDVyKY"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Alligator Blood</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1hvZqME7X8oO5PnuX1kiobXWWX9ifx5n1"><img width="450" height="317" title="race 7_makybe diva stakes_osipenko 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_makybe diva stakes_osipenko 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1RRrz6rfgsxjldsE5Yl_um5S_Q3o75x_o"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Osipenko</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1nVLYsF2nyTTmuTtkWBA8ZKUHUCkpqhCF"><img width="450" height="281" title="race 7_makybe diva stakes_princess grace 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_makybe diva stakes_princess grace 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1q_vnWxw3VZHOxOQmDH9l4sP_mrrO6Pt5"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Princess Grace</strong> on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1QDyUB5hR5JlC3k11sTUrDOZ4iauTZXGB"><img width="450" height="231" title="race 7_makybe diva stakes_mr brightside 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_makybe diva stakes_mr brightside 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1rZAms2BiukqnBL1IZumwSCpWC_xtl_8j"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Mr Brightside</strong> celebrates with his connections in the mounting yard</font></em></p><p><strong>Mr Brightside</strong> has won his last five races and is one of the shining lights of the Spring racing season.</p><p>Another bright light of this Spring is undoubtedly <strong>Amelia’s Jewel</strong> who contested and won the Group 2 <em>Let’s Elope Stakes</em> at Flemington on Saturday.</p><p><strong>Amelia’s Jewel</strong> was bred in West Australia and has had ten starts for eight wins and two seconds. </p><p>The <em>Let’s Elope Stakes</em> was her first start in Melbourne and she passed the test with flying colours, doing it easily after drawing the widest gate, winning by over a length from <strong>Life Lessons</strong> and<strong> El Patroness</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=19vji9V4l_LgDXbG8j1lmh9jn4_qqeYLL"><img width="450" height="441" title="race 8 _let's elope stakes_amelia's jewel 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8 _let's elope stakes_amelia's jewel 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1y5s7QFYVny-QeC0YUIc6nyUNnVR33rja"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Amelia’s Jewel</strong> parading in the mounting yard</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1NNcWJDAvtmxKbS3OwqDQ_CK1AOE8gYSV"><img width="450" height="524" title="race 8 _let's elope stakes_amelia's jewel 5" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8 _let's elope stakes_amelia's jewel 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1qk6BrX0vPfIEHKB-yHjLbt051Pg_gUI4"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Amelia’s Jewel</strong> on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1skczZ0kWigY_zXyRFnBQFryZxD25y-hS"><img width="450" height="351" title="race 8 _let's elope stakes_finish 5" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8 _let's elope stakes_finish 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1jKDABzGT-AZihic1JieKu4YbWJZgJg1L"><em></em><font size="2"></font></a><font size="2"></font><em></em><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Amelia’s Jewel</strong> overtaking <strong>Life Lessons</strong> & <strong>El Patroness</strong></font></em> </p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1gHwOq08HtTIx4kJzf_igmPRM8tcHTtGA"><img width="450" height="345" title="race 8 _let's elope stakes_amelia's jewel 13" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8 _let's elope stakes_amelia's jewel 13" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=15GHfZa24AVD_tdp6FaRYpBkFiUYVmON-"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Amelia’s Jewel</strong> returns to scale after winning the Let’s Elope Stakes</font></em></p><p>I’m pleased that I was there to see her in the flesh and hope I get to see her race again later in the Spring. There is some talk of her tackling the <em>Cox Plate</em>. </p><p>It was pleasant being back at the big track. The roses were not yet in bloom; no doubt timed as always to reappear in stunning arrays during the Melbourne Cup Carnival.</p><p>Next Saturday I plan to head to Caulfield for the running of the Group 1 <em>Underwood Stakes.</em></p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-37948557354378399602023-09-11T13:07:00.001+10:002023-09-11T13:07:55.170+10:00Feehan Stakes Day at Moonee Valley<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1UwbO18JRtERhVR1-M3fIvGci76vQb8sj"><img width="450" height="311" title="feehan stakes_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="feehan stakes_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1kN2sVKNvmqcqIgIi5OOEAhQmOqg5fgfk"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Pinstriped</strong> on his way to winning the 2023 Feehan Stakes</font></em> </p><p>The weather was awful – a brisk cold wind and the occasional shower marring the afternoon, but the racing made it worth while attending <strong>Feehan Stakes Day</strong> at Moonee Valley.</p><p>Particularly impressive was the sensational win by New Zealand mare <strong>Imperatriz </strong>of the Group 2 <em>McEwen Stakes</em>.</p><p>As the best races were scheduled towards the latter part of the afternoon, I took my time getting to track, arriving just before Race 5, the Listed<em> McKenzie Stakes</em>, run over 1200 metres.</p><p>A contest for three year old colts and geldings, <strong>Steparty</strong> started as the warm favourite and didn’t disappoint, winning by a length from <strong>Scentify</strong>, with <strong>Brave Mead</strong> taking third spot.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1fN8lUgUedDWxp20r6leOL4Ok1LMMN6z2"><img width="450" height="289" title="race 5_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=19cq4TOYsjcQ8rgicCMFliSDG8PXvUGaG"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Steparty</strong> wins the McKenzie Stakes</font></em></p><p>With a bit of time to kill before the next race, I headed off to the stalls interested in getting photos of New Zealand mare <strong>Imperatriz</strong> and<strong> Giga Kick</strong>.</p><p>This I succeeded in doing, both horses being stabled close to each other in Stalls 135 and 137.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=17cf6HiMVDe2hFLl9d0n4KgNWBqg9WThD"><img width="450" height="401" title="stalls_imperatriz 4" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_imperatriz 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1TFlWxISZigSWwzz_d_L5jBArWjgo8RK6"></a><br><strong><font size="2"><em>Imperatriz </em></font></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1FivpfRpNPKkrX4no_GMxMHFd4wQ1uNdW"><img width="450" height="444" title="stalls_giga kick 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_giga kick 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1oVXyxxq7VKuFqAd65MXX2SeiJgu1SgvH"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Giga Kick</font></em></strong></p><p>Race 6 was the <em>Atlantic Jewel Stakes</em>, also run over 1200 metres, but for three year old fillies.</p><p><strong>Charm Stone</strong> came out the winner in this case, beating <strong>Inhibitions </strong>by over a length.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1HmqPhUlbEjvl6mMlJSi0TqgZLgcqEAeo"><img width="450" height="319" title="race 6_atlantic jewel stakes_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_atlantic jewel stakes_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1nPfQfVeDbqWJrbV8zzx1EY00YVk2qEET"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Charm Stone</strong> wins the Atlantic Jewel Stakes</font></em></p><p>Run over the <em>Cox Plate</em> distance of 2040 metres, Race 7 was the <em>Strathmore Community Bendigo Bank Handicap</em>, where a large field of stayers were kicking off their spring campaigns. </p><p>English bred <strong>Future History</strong> started as favourite, but he was upstaged by <strong>Young Werther</strong> with <strong>Born A King</strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1JjbyuiDSZJRnNnvkfKHCitrqFS2wvBzf"><img width="450" height="313" title="race 7_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1yRJi9PnQM73K7HJCXPcxPqnD2dY5SZBB"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Young Werther</strong> holds off a challenge from <strong>Future History</strong> to win Race 7</font></em></p><p>Up next was the Group 2<em> McEwen Stakes</em>, the pick of the afternoon, a sprint over 1000 metres and seen as a match race between <strong>Imperatriz </strong>and<strong> Giga Kick</strong>, the latter being the hot favourite. </p><p>It was an exciting competition with Giga Kick being slow to begin tailing the field for most of the race, until his jockey, Craig Williams, urged him forward as they entered the straight. <strong>Imperatriz</strong> swept past all the contenders to register a sensational 2½ lengths win from <strong>Rothfire.</strong> <strong>Giga Kick</strong> ended up finishing third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1LamsREL-_yny0Q_gCEcVIKafWRgaixhK"><img width="450" height="345" title="race 8_mcewen stakes_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_mcewen stakes_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Sl6KI25fRwEhUlyUjq6Fe8iI_46UAXJa"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Imperatriz </strong>wins the McEwen Stakes</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1tEJocfOV_Jl09rorl5YSDTUzD0ILoWIi"><img width="450" height="311" title="race 8_mcewen stakes_finish 4" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_mcewen stakes_finish 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1zgwe6KOeLCP3-7Aeai10Wi9FtSSXQBre"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Giga Kick</strong> and <strong>Rothfire</strong> vie for second place</font></em></p><p>The feature <em>Feehan Stakes</em> was certainly upstaged by the <em>McEwen Stakes</em>, but worth lingering at the track for.</p><p>The highly touted, so far unbeaten, <strong>Globe</strong> was the favourite, but he faded to finish last after racing on the pace from the beginning. It was discovered that he suffered Cardiac Arrhythmia during the race and was eased out of the running.</p><p><strong>Pinstriped</strong> won the Golden Ticket into the<em> Cox Plate</em> beating <strong>Attrition</strong> by one length with <strong>Tuvalu</strong> filling third place.</p><p>Throughout the afternoon a band on the public lawn had been entertaining the crowd with tasteful covers of popular songs, including Moonee Valley favourite<em> Horses</em> where I found it amusing to note the drunks dancing and singing along.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1uAGX_NvYUEYgg_-x0zYPzR6vrUAMdE4Z"><img width="450" height="360" title="band 1" style="display: inline;" alt="band 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ErTKn6VhIsl_5_Yt6F3EFFZ-gcXxKpL8"></a> <br><em><font size="2">A portion of the band</font></em></p><p>And so ended another afternoon at the races.</p><p>I was pleased to have attended the event and glad to have witnessed a potential new sprinting Queen of the Turf in <strong>Imperatiz.</strong></p><p>She will do all her Spring racing in Melbourne, so I’ll get to see her again later in the season.</p><p>Next Saturday I hope to attend the Group 1 <em>Makybe Diva Stakes</em> meeting at Flemington, where the grand old lady and triple <em>Melbourne Cup</em> winner, <strong>Makybe Diva</strong> herself, will be a special guest.</p><p>Also on the program is star Western Australian mare <strong>Amelia’s Jewel</strong> contesting either the feature Group 1 race or the<em> Let’s Elope Stakes</em>.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-66987080246364497242023-07-12T15:09:00.001+10:002023-07-12T15:09:28.486+10:00A Rare Pleasure –The Milk Carton Kids at Thornbury Theatre<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=15YWgZM-5XnvmeahqmB7almiszl_Jp_3W"><img width="450" height="377" title="milk carton kids 1" style="display: inline;" alt="milk carton kids 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=11e15IPb-nsWuhIXqcn4o0PiJpBG8RIho"></a><br><em><font size="2">The Milk Carton Kids - live 9 July 2023 at Thornbury Theatre</font></em></p><p>I’d be the first to admit that I have been neglectful in blogging, though truth to tell there is not much happening in my life worth reporting, as we endure another winter.</p><p>In the past I attended many musical events, but these days, with old age diminishing my hearing I’m less inclined to go.</p><p>However I made an exception for<strong> </strong><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Milk_Carton_Kids"><strong>The Milk Carton Kids</strong></a> having seen them twice before, firstly at <a href="http://catpolitics.blogspot.com/2013/06/funny-quirky-endearing-milk-carton-kids.html"><strong>Thornbury Theatre</strong></a> way back in June 2013, then again at the <a href="http://catpolitics.blogspot.com/2015/07/the-milk-carton-kidsmidwinter-magic.html"><strong>Athenaeum Theatre</strong></a> in July 2015.</p><p>Before attending I did purchase and listen to their latest CD<strong> </strong><a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiViPinrIiAAxXYd2wGHVBiBesQwqsBegQILBAF&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3D_nwxVNTMRq8&usg=AOvVaw0VF5v4Ghlw9jFmKFV1Rt_O&opi=89978449"><strong>I Only See The Moon</strong></a><strong>,</strong> a masterful collection of ten beautiful songs, and was particularly taken with several of them, namely <em>One True Love</em>, <em>North Country Ride</em> and <em>Will You Remember Me</em>.</p><p>The Thornbury Theatre was configured for concert mode, in rows of reserved seating and I’d booked tickets early enough to secure seats three rows from the stage in the centre section, a perfect position.</p><p>The show was opened by the support act, Canadian- American singer songwriter <a href="https://www.verasola.com/">Vera Sola</a>. </p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1H4KjQekZU52dcnkYeyfe-igCDWDg7H-J"><img width="450" height="338" title="vera sola 2" style="display: inline;" alt="vera sola 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1eBm6m2y2IzEoPfdhI3bKKDCtndy2_JCm"></a><br><em><font size="2">Vera Sola live at Thornbury Theatre 9 July 2023</font></em></p><p>I must admit her act was quite dramatic, though not really to my personal taste. </p><p>The Milk Carton Kids on the other hand were just as engaging as previously witnessed and performed a wonderful set of thirteen songs, drawn from their 10 record repertoire. </p><p>They are a minimalist act, just the two of them – Joey Ryan and Kenneth Pattengale – standing around a single mike and combining gorgeous harmony singing with guitar (and banjo) accompaniments.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Sdjzb2yl3eDlin1PsrlmRtOQtNziYdto"><img width="450" height="456" title="milk carton kids 4" style="display: inline;" alt="milk carton kids 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1GxJor3JntnQHFIWc7Fn9CKTJkVbQNBA7"></a><br><em><font size="2">The Milk Carton Kids – Joey Ryan & Kenneth Pattengale</font></em></p><p>I was delighted that they performed my favourites from their new record - exquisite renditions as you’d expect.</p><p>The audience in attendance were predominantly in the older age bracket, a circumstance remarked on by Joey Ryan when he singled out a young person sitting in the front row during one of the breaks between songs. Us older folk were amused rather than affronted by this, and gave the boys a rousing reception and even a standing ovation at the end of the night, where they returned for an encore of two songs, a fabulous cover of <strong>Pink Floyd’s</strong> <em>Wish You Were Here</em> and the final track on <strong>I Only See the Moon</strong>, <em>Will You Remember Me?</em> </p><p>They are a class act that I hope to see live again before I die.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Milk Carton Kids Setlist</strong></p><p>1. Younger Years<p>2. Monterey<p>3. Maybe It's Time<p>4. Honey, Honey<p>5. All Of The Time In The World To Kill<p>6. When You're Gone<p>7. I Only See the Moon<p>8. One True Love<p>9. North Country Ride<p>10. Heaven<p>11. Michigan<p>12. All the Things I Did and All the Things that I Didn’t Do<p>13. I Still Want a Little More<p> <strong>Encore:</strong><p>15. Wish You Were Here (Pink Floyd cover) <p>16. Will You Remember Me?Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-31246880720460996852023-03-28T20:07:00.000+11:002023-04-01T12:03:40.158+11:00Australian Cup 2023 Review<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1_YU1Ij-qUxBBiRE9BSrbIU-mUR3KlVD8"><img width="450" height="369" title="australian cup _finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="australian cup _finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1-JTB6rKkXtK_rUQo0VKvfJhK4K_nwPFp"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Cascadian</strong> wins the 2023 Australian Cup</font></em></p><p>The Australian Cup used to be run on the same day as the <em>Newmarket Handicap</em>, but this year it was the single feature race two weeks after.</p><p>I’m not at all sure that this strategy on the part of Racing Victoria worked, as the other races on the card were not that interesting.</p><p>Anyway, it being the final Group 1 race of the Melbourne Autumn carnival, I decided to attend the meeting.</p><p>As no City Loop trains were running last Saturday, it was a bit tricky getting to Southern Cross Station to catch the train to Flemington, but I managed quite comfortably and arrived at the big track at around 1.40 pm.</p><p>Race 3 was just about to start as I wandered up the public lawn to the stalls area, so I lingered at the fence to watch favourite <strong>Sparkle</strong> flash by and win easily by two lengths from <strong>Black Penn</strong>.</p><p>In the stalls area, the first horses I came across were the Living Legends special guests, <strong>Harlem</strong> and <strong>Gailo Chop</strong> who ran the quinella in the 2018 <em>Australian Cup</em>. Indeed <strong>Harlem</strong> also won the race again in 2019.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1kzazG3riixc1040Jqm26IsLHobgCWqmj"><img width="450" height="470" title="stalls_harlem 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_harlem 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1aVMX4Ri2ko_MovN6nGmoka382dmWMYQU"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Harlem</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1LRxwB3UaWiuJBWxXhv3CalERvYHwomv9"><img width="450" height="486" title="stalls_gailo chop 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_gailo chop 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1P3t2vM7SW4EVEJMsYz-iPOnVkvpWSrOx"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Gailo Chop</font></em></strong></p><p>My main aim whilst I was in the stalls was to get a photo of highly regarded New Zealand mare<strong> Campionessa</strong>. Her compatriot and stablemate <strong>Imperatriz</strong> had won the Group 1 <em>William Reid Stakes</em> the night before at Moonee Valley.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1B8rDVS0AjFKpEvLeb0SPHfSaG7etSh3Q"><img width="450" height="431" title="stalls_campionessa 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_campionessa 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1K4HSS0qtBM6WMM_sF6nMquO8q2es0QST"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Campionessa</font></em></strong></p><p><strong>Campionessa</strong> was entered in the <em>Australian Cup</em>, and only got a run after several horses were scratched.</p><p>Other <em>Australian Cup</em> runners I came across in the stalls were…</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Gu2-GqIqhn7kmPgtOEpj_4GjjXv8jV1j"><img width="450" height="388" title="stalls_el partoness 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_el partoness 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1AbpQkEu75jRIb2dc8geo8HMgng1OBY9k"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">El Patroness</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1CF_qAsEntTEsAMIGizHryN8ZRTfme7IQ"><img width="454" height="509" title="stalls_nonconformist 1" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="stalls_nonconformist 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ZsOVMaxJBa6EPfHwZ-XjJqa5puYGYvSZ" border="0"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Nonconformist</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1x47z_diia9woSD_9AXWUEgOA8GToRmYP"><img width="450" height="448" title="stalls_smokin romans 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_smokin romans 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1QoBFf0R7s-2xRKLek2Xl6X2nD2Ai1GhV"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Smokin’ Romans</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1E8xXgf4W1Y5Ccv0s8bHC2yMaKN65nxY-"><img width="450" height="409" title="stalls_cascadian 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_cascadian 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1XclUyTMZVI8MLj0cqTpEKOOj3sgVcX2M"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Cascadian</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1mIL0gx4su9mYtgisYtG4KIlAsR4Cmc08"><img width="450" height="373" title="stalls_bear story 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_bear story 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1qnhzbKUMdBBpJZ1sErw_l2iznug_vacT"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Bear Story</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1OiQFPRXTlk1DYinaEwhgaz9ixf31lqNr"><img width="450" height="377" title="stalls_yaphet 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_yaphet 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1zlck1_7HI2ZGQUZzIb0LB9HrOgQ1bD3F"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Yaphet</font></em></strong></p><p>Figuring I probably needed some action photo practice I abandoned the stalls and wandered up to my favourite spot on the Western Lawn in plenty of time to watch Race 4, the Listed <em>Bob Hoysted Handicap</em>, a sprint over 1000 metres.</p><p><strong>Kallos </strong>won the race from <strong>The Bopper</strong> with <strong>A Very Fine Red</strong> finishing third</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1o4onAHh1ZBC7jpoEnSEKo7xrIMLETcUI"><img width="450" height="283" title="race 4_kallos 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_kallos 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1qsk8OZtYh7VVzhYKZoac6VIrcf4UHI56"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Kallos </strong>wins the Bob Hoysted Handicap</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Poup4LBJ_CowZfe3Rh40MCxy9R13s5ZN"><img width="450" height="336" title="race 4_the bopper 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_the bopper 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1XHof5trS2XPIuggN7_OVrinn0n_oIC6W"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">The Bopper</font></em></strong> </p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1WYbo2iE7_rPJDcjvvgIavvOT5cG6aL0v"><img width="450" height="324" title="race 4_kallos 4" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_kallos 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=15WLx-5Q8RcmGA0uj8gogFeZxW-G-0FBM"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Kallos </strong>returns to scale</font></em></p><p>Race 5, the Listed <em>Roy Higgins</em>, run over 2600 metres was of more interest as the winner scores a Golden Ticket into the <em>Melbourne Cup</em>.</p><p><strong>Goldman</strong> led the race from the start to the finish to win by almost three lengths from <strong>Soulcombe</strong> with <strong>Swords Drawn</strong> running third a further length behind. <strong>Goldman</strong> is now early favourite for the <em>Melbourne Cup</em>, and I can understand why; it was an impressive win.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1qcEx3G0F7f9C_GToUlblQYDj5AMAhw3f"><img width="450" height="352" title="race 5_ffinish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_ffinish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1nkiGRqUHkC5NNBTZWR0FpHGeJIpRIURn"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Goldman </strong>wins the Roy Higgins easily</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=18-9kDWelbDUoxugDhf7In279bjtsJCkF"><img width="450" height="315" title="race 5_ffinish 4" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_ffinish 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1dCsCq_MYcldWnaZBhM9XUQuYiZbgjXdP"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Soulcombe</strong> (blue) & <strong>Swords Drawn</strong> run second and third</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1M4Kww54TlpiorS2CE-NfmEomVVfZpQc0"><img width="450" height="364" title="race 5_goldman 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_goldman 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1NJBWBx29I-PEgWBhVAj6kVKN-9IFgM7O"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Goldman </strong>returns to scale</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1p_4dGIRhAkd47bGgA-FBCUyUENDgk_uJ"><img width="450" height="394" title="race 5_soulcombe 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_soulcombe 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1YTCya2d6cuC1JZnYJ8jJqzMZZwunENum"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Soulcombe</strong> returns to scale</font></em></p><p>A couple of years ago speedy mare <strong>Sunlight</strong> was a big favourite of mine, so it was pleasing to see that she now has a race named in her honour. This was the Listed <em>Sunlight Classic</em>, a sprint over 1000 metres and run as Race 6 last Saturday at Flemington.</p><p>A large field of fifteen runners contested the event and <strong>What You Need</strong> was the starting favourite. He won convincingly by a length from <strong>Renosu</strong> and <strong>Benedetta</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1C_2872RR3n6f90bfe6w4vTwLdHUCK6jl"><img width="450" height="315" title="rcce 6_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="rcce 6_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=15A1a7l9RKoDqF1qp5CJkN-zs4l_Z6wiR"></a> <br><em><font size="2"><strong>What You Need</strong> (navy & white) overtaking <strong>Renosu</strong> and <strong>Benedetta to</strong> win the Sunlight Classic</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1_OuNoQ06MgE9LAjz33easYPd2MQbUVJ9"><img width="450" height="309" title="race 6_what you need 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_what you need 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1AR79FptaDrBnrXyxbh0ZQNQ8ioiHRRpD"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>What You Need</strong> returns to scale</font></em></p><p>Up next was the feature Group 1 race of the afternoon, the <em>Australian Cup</em>.</p><p>Whilst waiting for it to start I checked out the band that was playing in the Elms. Over the afternoon, they had been playing soothing pop numbers, the only one I recognised was <em>Water Melon Sugar</em>, mostly because I have fond memories of reading the book (by Richard Brautigan) with a similar name in the dim distant past.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=10oCfB0YQ9vLypUFXI1CvdJOLYKX9cn0g"><img width="450" height="468" title="band 3" style="display: inline;" alt="band 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1XZGYK49hdkkk63qjx9s0Ig8Dfhsy-bsu"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Band</font></em></strong></p><p>It wasn’t the classiest field assembled for the <em>Australian Cup</em> with no real stand out horses. <strong>Cascadian</strong> started as favourite after his impressive second placing in the <em>All Star Mile</em>.</p><p>Here are some photos of the contestants on their way to the barriers…</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1z-F3AvboWnjLhhgPdqBs6TUZOyNz0cSD"><img width="450" height="373" title="australian cup _cascadian 1" style="display: inline;" alt="australian cup _cascadian 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1N9s5mOE-MaA6kcMTSCySqh0552vQ48u4"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Cascadian</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1JNBRFMTjtMdlG3doJ68dF6SMhnRE0qKJ"><img width="450" height="334" title="australian cup _emissary 2" style="display: inline;" alt="australian cup _emissary 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1VgpQmpL395G6WtYfuFmfYdkZqO8WGl_t"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Emissary</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Nd4jYeHKcBt8vSYQlREj9g03Sf5-bKSw"><img width="450" height="319" title="australian cup _el patroness 1" style="display: inline;" alt="australian cup _el patroness 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1pq0kPx6J5Lg_P-g8XmI3EHDwTGdSAzvX"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">El Patroness</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1BChlamDALxM_cM8DWrpNY0iaoRZn_bk4"><img width="450" height="403" title="australian cup _lcampionessa 1" style="display: inline;" alt="australian cup _lcampionessa 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1l1gUBzuxCD9tuWTh8h9EwsJErMcqE2oK"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Campionessa</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1QmSneAYRA5PzDBx7xv9yUP5nw2n-9wU6"><img width="450" height="420" title="australian cup _nonconformist 1" style="display: inline;" alt="australian cup _nonconformist 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=13oGjvx0syHhF3y8G5QNxzwkLkj4NKoH3"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Nonconformist</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1rm1UthfWu6KBU_nGVMvTCBBhs5PThT_9"><img width="450" height="491" title="australian cup _pounding 1" style="display: inline;" alt="australian cup _pounding 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1fqs_Jg3gFeLLCKoi5GiRGvHfDNbVyY-R"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Pounding</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1YjGcjOaw4wkdMSCbhOhwWECIi81BLDHK"><img width="450" height="315" title="australian cup _regal power 2" style="display: inline;" alt="australian cup _regal power 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1DZsUzrPlRt-NGDcMUKnvQHOaRVe7V21d"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Regal Power</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=13MjxjcFhDcPZcJk9Gb2B5R_Zglba1E6U"><img width="450" height="345" title="australian cup smokin romans 2" style="display: inline;" alt="australian cup smokin romans 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1vtBirbevtp5ijezGWAb9ZO923Sh42I1J"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Smokin’ Romans</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ks5B6A_0hMwiNGhkxey_KxS52qe8U-xb"><img width="450" height="416" title="australian cup _numerian 1" style="display: inline;" alt="australian cup _numerian 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1JEkZ-ZGqasVxHaIyU6OM2fQ6Ac2EG5Qy"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Numerian</font></em></strong></p><p><strong>Cascadian </strong>won the race in sensational fashion, storming from the back of field to overtake <strong>Numerian </strong>who led from the start. <strong>Pounding </strong>finished third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1fLn5z4B6ylCEyLiGHPkKWmM8JzlfSHxQ"><img width="450" height="234" title="australian cup _finish 3" style="display: inline;" alt="australian cup _finish 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1BEesVdCEa8-08EcpejbgNAyJsDxYxFcP"></a><br><em><font size="2">Australian Cup finish – another photo</font></em></p><p>I didn’t hang around after the <em>Australian Cup</em> was run being anxious to catch the first train back to city from Flemington at 4.39 pm.</p><p>The focus of Group 1 racing will switch to Sydney from now on with the so called Championships offering plenty of exciting racing action, which I will be content to watch at home.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-40999088501471366032023-03-20T15:05:00.001+11:002023-03-21T12:03:04.963+11:00All Things Bright and Beautiful<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1otCPYlE_0ds2yhxTrFogb2mYLrli-1jS"><img width="450" height="343" title="all star mile_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1XK2lfKufDv-l7r1tTx88N-PBQYR8uo70"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Mr Brightside</strong> wins the 2023 All Star Mile</font></em></p><p>When heading off to the races you never really know how the afternoon will play out, the weather, along with the racing action, making the experience unexpected.</p><p>Last Saturday the weather was pretty awful, overcast for the main with gusty winds, making it unpleasant for this contact lens wearer.</p><p>Anyway, it was <strong>All Star Mile Day</strong> at Moonee Valley and I had a ticket, so forth I went on the trusty 510 Bus, arriving around 2.00 pm.</p><p>Surprisingly it wasn’t all that crowded, so it was easy to get a good position on the fence from which to take photos of the action.</p><p>I tested the camera in Race 4 and noticed that the light was not ideal.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1o5lvvygePmtgVq8RSp1XmupbhkmLdlEe"><img width="450" height="244" title="race 4_finish 4" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_finish 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1y3YSsad88zzaRAaACUcponHr6OO73LaU"></a><br><em><font size="2">Race 4 charge up the straight – winner <strong>Bel Air</strong> is furthest left</font></em></p><p>I gave Race 5 a miss, and hung around in the stalls area for awhile before deciding I needed more photo practice before the main event.</p><p>Race 6 was the Listed<em> Abell Stakes</em> run over 1200 metres, so I returned to the fence and managed to get better photos of the action. I saw the fall of Florescent Star from a distance, and was dismayed to see the green screen go up, as she was euthanised. </p><p><strong>She’s All Class</strong> won from In <strong>The Boat</strong> and<strong> Mileva</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1PNvbCsYYzJZKdxCFQR-FR0y78j7IH4nB"><img width="450" height="259" title="race 6_finish 1JPG" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_finish 1JPG" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1t7mbfrQ4dgERWgfgwQR8AcpI1oa0pbbR"></a><br><em><font size="2">Race 6 – <strong>She’s All Class</strong> is furthest left in olive green silks</font></em></p><p>As the All Star Mile was up next, I stayed where I was on the fence. The fall in the previous race delayed the start by over half an hour. The sun briefly emerged from the cloud cover, but didn’t hang around for the feature event.</p><p>A bit of pomp and circumstance in the form of girls marching out on to the track with flags signalled that the race was not far off.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Z0-ivke6mhSfxLMVJWwhOposofrOYdJe"><img width="450" height="201" title="flags 1" style="display: inline;" alt="flags 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1H6ljBvp0WGgJWGaE94kAMLcR6SRYuKM2"></a></p><p>Here are photos of some of the contenders as they made their way to the barriers.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1N_CGMMUpgTkDmMmys7gpyQMwbvYxpugR"><img width="450" height="313" title="all star mile_alligator blood 1" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_alligator blood 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=11xVmbqa7Nk360GeF93wVCmiZ6k85Arw9"></a><br><em><strong><font size="2">Alligator Blood</font></strong></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Wtic2eBznmw3iHBPq8PC2OTzNuqQ_hIb"><img width="450" height="332" title="all star mile_alenquer 1" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_alenquer 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1SWY6mHPZk6R5FEcf5T4132pjTuyY2qso"></a><br><strong><font size="2"><em>Alenquer</em></font></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=18XNvPCpRzMwT4Zj1oe2Va5cpl2mWNf2a"><img width="450" height="313" title="all star mile_keats 2" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_keats 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Fxb14vqIcY2tO1KoU7Nl6bP0LyjeXacu"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Keats</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1xDeCK_tVuIBfPfUHL_jTvoYXEObteYPG"><img width="450" height="377" title="all star mile_mr brightside 1" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_mr brightside 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1bExDwHRQwyLkPLmyxqY9yr6lorBeNuoe"></a><br><em><strong><font size="2">Mr Brightside</font></strong></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1sWkxlT3UUAsfOPPWz-Vs5yK61owKbdPy"><img width="450" height="373" title="all star mile_my oberon 2" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_my oberon 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1d9zSrBP4ZL4-idwjAlAWl16eMN76rw81"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">My Oberon</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Jb6J4gDDgjyH-XyczI74U7b_5qcnzgnu"><img width="450" height="373" title="all star mile_pounding 1" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_pounding 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1kzjTtSOrF-rs4zT3we4XN-SdYEQCLuYl"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Pounding</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1FfIHKSR3WAIjkk7KbNR4PuJScBoFBogr"><img width="450" height="360" title="all star mile_the inevitable 3" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_the inevitable 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Q3229I2byWzIR7ZQdrxJqDpIN1-idTlk"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">The Inevitable</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1RE5wxv91IIozdDr4NkrTWBFLgmVWtIIK"><img width="450" height="366" title="all star mile_sheezer belter 1" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_sheezer belter 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Yxig9I7ZVPRD0FFbLY3e84QZhFppSBix"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Sheeza Belter</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ARnupyW0E_xtr5nuX9z07NKrDctQjUeH"><img width="450" height="332" title="all star mile_so si bon 1" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_so si bon 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1_gbmkw-dzj_M6yG2fzxkzway3pif2e9q"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">So Si Bon</font></em></strong></p><p>As All Star Mile fields go, it wasn’t the most interesting by any means, but the race itself was worth waiting for.</p><p>No doubt the Hayes brothers were delighted with <strong>Mr Brightside’s</strong> victory. <strong>Cascadian </strong>finished second and Tassie champ <strong>The Inevitable</strong> ran third, just ahead of <strong>Alligator Blood</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1WvUAqWlSuvZLOy4PEgYoNxVrAhswtzc3"><img width="450" height="292" title="all star mile_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="all star mile_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ytjiGM_NJTU6j5LyZaV6qjKYnTMrs7Yc"><em></em><font size="2"></font></a><font size="2"></font><em></em><br><em><font size="2">Another photo of <strong>Mr Brightside</strong> winning the All Star Mile</font></em></p><p>And so ended another <strong>All Star Mile</strong>, after which I headed home.</p><p>With the delay in proceedings at Moonee Valley, I did manage to see the Sydney races on the Big Screen, where <strong>Anamoe</strong> won the <em>George Ryder Stakes</em> and <strong>Shinzo </strong>was victorious in the <em>Golden Slipper</em>, giving trainer Chris Waller his first Golden Slipper trophy.</p><p>Next Saturday is the last Group 1 meeting of the Melbourne Autumn Carnival and is at Flemington, where the <em>Australian Cup</em> is the feature event.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-40901959772950132932023-03-13T13:53:00.001+11:002023-03-13T19:41:09.665+11:00Secret Girl Power–Super Saturday Review<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1zmYL7R879jsMCpFvu05GxhNUUj2L9Qp9"><img width="450" height="364" title="newmarket hcp_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="newmarket hcp_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1uelQ_3vOEIWaDhnVuA6OlyD8NB_OK5hp"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>In Secret</strong> wins the 2023 Newmarket Handicap</font></em></p><p>When I set out to catch a train to Flemington, I was hoping to get there in time to watch Race 3, the Group 2, <em>Kewney Stakes</em>, but I missed it. It was won by <strong>Revolutionary Miss.</strong></p><p>Rather than head for my usual spot on the western lawn, I decided to check out the stalls area first and get some photos of the <em>Newmarket Handicap</em> contenders, though I only came across a few.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ZcdHbEvfMv2_NomD5TOi-lE1r6awyRGT"><img width="450" height="401" title="stalls_iwish i win 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_iwish i win 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1PHuvMSiApurPLk98ZPocz8-IFHCXzZg5"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>I Wish I Win</strong> – the Newmarket starting favourite</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1uF9cC0io4fRqX-XaAWRUTSJwLFwCetcs"><img width="450" height="454" title="stalls_roch n horse 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_roch n horse 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1zAt7hbaU6DevhmirA87rJ7HlmasqHpF7"></a><br><em><font size="2">Last year’s Newmarket winner <strong>Roch ’N’ Horse</strong></font></em></p><p>2019 <em>Melbourne Cup</em> winner<strong> Vow and Declare</strong> was also present, set to run in the <em>Australian Cup Prelude </em>later in the afternoon.</p><p><img width="450" height="392" title="stalls_vow and declare 2" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_vow and declare 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1o0i4rVDghHy5enr5n2MVv8k3p8Sr85jU"><br><strong><em><font size="2">Vow and Declare</font></em></strong></p><p>Whilst I was dilly dallying in the stalls area, I missed getting back to my usual spot to photograph the Group 2 <em>Sires Produce Stakes</em>. I did however manage to watch the field charging down the straight and noticed the two riderless horses, though mercifully missed the falls that resulted in jockeys Craig Williams and Jamie Kah being transported to hospital. Both horses, <strong>Flyball </strong>and <strong>Dubenenko,</strong> were alright thank goodness.</p><p>This alarming incident delayed proceedings for the rest of the afternoon, so the next race, the Group 2 <em>Matron Stakes</em> was run half an hour after its scheduled start.</p><p>By the rime it was run I had managed to get to my favourite spot and was able to get photos of the action.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1bXLbnyCPp0VQbKtIeJwq9kanF1I_Rv2u"><img width="450" height="317" title="race 5_matron stkes_finish 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_matron stkes_finish 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1FJdB2L9f-TNQMoVfuAP2hOAmwU8N3Dg9"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Sirileo Miss</strong> wins the Matron Stakes</font></em></p><p><strong>Sirileo Miss</strong> led from start and won by over three lengths from <strong>Excelida </strong>and <strong>Barb Raider.</strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1UR5OPi350J-4uW0TZ1F7W70XAENJXhH7"><img width="450" height="315" title="race 5_matron stkes_sirleo miss 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_matron stkes_sirleo miss 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1becOFWW8mtOtBHawTBSL82mN_Ty0iiTx"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Sirileo Miss</strong> on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1b8XgPTjUmHoQKDZC5Jh2VjAcQ1M2vr-l"><img width="450" height="328" title="race 5_matron stkes_finish 4" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_matron stkes_finish 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1tOWB1kbr8nYpungScIh-211Ywji8-HpB"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Excelida </strong>(checks) and <strong>Barb Raider</strong> fill the placings</font></em></p><p>It was a pleasant sunny day trackside, so not that onerous to kill time between the rescheduled races, and there wasn’t much of crowd present either.</p><p>Next up was the <em>Australian Cup Prelude</em>, run over 2000 metres.</p><p><strong>Right You Are</strong> started as favourite and prevailed, holding off <strong>Vow and Declare</strong> to win by over a length. <strong>Emissary </strong>ran third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1bOb4ON_sMOG7ueUfmmlhvWSW4iorTNG8"><img width="450" height="285" title="race 6_aus cup prelude_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_aus cup prelude_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1klvzq6pokZs70ZBBlS6N4I3WkK2Nwcv6"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Right You Are</strong> wins the Australian Cup Prelude from <strong>Vow and Declare</strong></font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1G7JGk9JfuBWssA7vACHfPnt3i6YgNLsw"><img width="450" height="294" title="race 6_aus cup prelude_right you are 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_aus cup prelude_right you are 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1guvzrYx9G82gsdgKVRmEBAuGjldrlnFt"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Right You Are</strong> on his way to barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1EBsWb7vCUwblDEScEAuy8X6z8l0gNb_e"><img width="450" height="368" title="race 6_aus cup prelude_vow and declare 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_aus cup prelude_vow and declare 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1G3PJzekHeNVUzew4Qexu_VXRryVKAEVI"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Vow and Declare</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1gXMRVoNLEw2urKRqAn9oCwABXMB6ULcH"><img width="450" height="364" title="race 6_aus cup prelude_emissary 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_aus cup prelude_emissary 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1-nymahvRgmFHRd4wxtsHpfNHrYXNjFAD"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Emissary </strong>on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>The feature <em>Newmarket Handicap</em> was next up. It had attracted a super field of classy sprinters. <strong>I Wish I Win</strong> started as favourite, but sole three year old filly <strong>In Secret</strong> thrashed the field to win convincingly from <strong>Lofty Strike</strong> with <strong>I Wish I Win</strong> running third.</p><p>Luckily,<strong> In Secret </strong>raced down the centre of the track, so I was able to get some good photos of her winning the race.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1zCc9r3wOLTEm_YrPaiYt10MeTGkfC3kM"><img width="450" height="332" title="newmarket hcp_finish 4" style="display: inline;" alt="newmarket hcp_finish 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1XdvpB2cL9RT0MvAtcJSOW1h-TQZNB_CD"></a><br><em><font size="2">Another shot of<strong> In Secret</strong> winning the Newmarket Handicap</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1F9mAbIXqJPw1ZsFTxGEqA5a-jreIsrRt"><img width="450" height="319" title="newmarket hcp_lofty strike 1" style="display: inline;" alt="newmarket hcp_lofty strike 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1pp1AVEn53MkMT5XbiOstPWIryDPiIgy5"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Lofty Strike</strong> runs second</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1mVxGcuvC0TPZj3h1ymxCUYL53CiT62mP"><img width="450" height="362" title="newmarket hcp_in secret 1" style="display: inline;" alt="newmarket hcp_in secret 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1JV-a1ewT_Y6ycDAymVKZr6kRxHyc2C3o"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>In Secret</strong> returns to scale</font></em></p><p>By this time, what with the delay caused by the falls in Race 4, it was after 5.00pm, so I called it quits and headed for the station and home.</p><p>It’s interesting that the two recent Flemington Group 1 sprint races were won by three year old fillies, no doubt in part due to the light weight they were allotted to carry.</p><p>Next Saturday I’m heading to Moonee Valley for the running of the <strong>All Star Mile</strong>, but I will be returning to Flemington for <strong>Australian Cup Day</strong> on 25th March.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-11768904151939927432023-02-20T17:04:00.001+11:002023-03-05T12:30:09.335+11:00Coolangatta Lightning<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1V8rMZ1hhnXL6x50tv-jRq6hY4pOa7w_O"><img width="450" height="287" title="lightning stakes_finish 4" style="display: inline;" alt="lightning stakes_finish 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1m3fdgI6fjiqW0TMaIIkBvVzvNzXoC8aI"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Coolangatta</strong> winning the 2023 Black Caviar Lightning</font></em></p><p>Her name may be the same as the Gold Coast town, but three year old filly, <strong>Coolangatta,</strong> was the heroine of Melbourne after her determined win in the feature race at Flemington on Saturday afternoon.</p><p>This was my first outing to the racetrack since the Spring Racing Carnival, and I chose well, as the afternoon was sunny but not overly hot after a cool change on Friday brought a welcome end to the three day heat wave.</p><p>Obliged by the Flemington Racecourse train timetable, I arrived at the track in time to witness Race 3, the <em>Talindert Stakes</em> for two year old contenders, run over over 1100 metres. In the past this race has been won by classy youngsters, such as <strong>All Too Hard</strong> in 2012.</p><p>Flemington wasn’t crowded by any means, so it was easy to get around, so I headed directly to my favourite spot on the Western Front Lawn to get some photo practice before the main event later in the day.</p><p><strong>Maharba </strong>started as the favourite and won the race by a length from <strong>Hell Queen</strong> with <strong>Tacito</strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1wXSKBFdY7kVSZp0_sKmx3nkBBV88MZtT"><img width="450" height="276" title="talindert stakes_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="talindert stakes_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1z3VwMcPew0M9SaF0ExXMdU4udgDbOAtw"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Maharba </strong>wins the Talindert Stakes</font></em></p><p>I decided that I didn’t mind missing Race 4, the <em>Asian Racing Federation Trophy</em>, so made my way to the stalls area to get photos of the main contenders in the feature <em>Black Caviar Lightning</em>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1BPVqw9IJ99ZWv4v3XfyMrH8nFHDA_98K"><img width="450" height="462" title="stalls_nature strip 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_nature strip 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=14gD8dmVvaYc55PfXmjW0jwlnx8b0p7ig"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Nature Strip</strong> – favourite for the Lightning</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1QKVG2yB0ob4oFbkSF2o1He0rvRAT9kgz"><img width="450" height="500" title="stalls_coolongatta 2" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_coolongatta 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1eC0Tr-w2oH0SVNi8EbeOO0FTbk1BcrAu"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Coolangatta</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ALaM50njRHnrbFqty9HT4RDHeiyHtAxP"><img width="450" height="379" title="stalls_i wish i win 4" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_i wish i win 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1lBoq_W4hDJld58sRZVrQ8Jpcu2NpIHq2"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">I Wish I Win</font></em></strong> </p><p>Race 5 was the more interesting <em>Tony Bourke Memorial</em>, usually run as the Group 3 <em>Frances Tressady Stakes</em> over 1400 metres and for fillies and mares. </p><p><strong>Annavisto</strong> who won the race last year, started as the warm favourite was victorious again , leading from the start to win by over three lengths from <strong>Wrote to Arataki</strong> with <strong>Excelida </strong>running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1QM43EnLOVLWBJqk1wuXhBvUep0FA7qVL"><img width="454" height="392" title="race 5_annavisto 2" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="race 5_annavisto 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1IQHxybPcPu4AIkUA1fDbspcqsQA91URy" border="0"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Annavisto </strong>crosses the finish line unopposed</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1DpAjmce3QcuKdluwWLwodD9mR_k7b5fS"><img width="450" height="388" title="race 5_annavisto 5" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_annavisto 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1J5oRDUsVjBS8RIKk0pkVhwIU6fPqTjBH"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Annavisto</strong> returns to scale</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1vwBfHNLB949JsrJ60nb0oKKDaouEurWD"><img width="450" height="345" title="race 5_wrote to arataki 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_wrote to arataki 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1VHbdNwjgzX5TCojL6wKwSzU8_icRCwod"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Wrote to Arataki</strong> on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>As the <em>Black Caviar Lightning</em> was scheduled as as Race 7, there was still one more race to run before the feature. This was the Group 3 <em>CS Hayes Stakes</em> for three year old colts and geldings and also run over 1400 metres </p><p>A large field of 14 starters were contesting the event with the favourite being <strong>Bank Maur</strong>. He ended up unplaced with victory going to <strong>Elliptical </strong>who narrowly won from <strong>Holymanz</strong> and <strong>Maximillius.</strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1obtLaQIPJSX7IE7qluw6SAOFXPGhvmen"><img width="450" height="326" title="race 6_finish 4" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_finish 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1YZTpcqYR6GLwqMhnglbvwOQxcVzOClGm"></a><br><em><font size="2">A wall of horses crosses the finish line in the CS Hayes – <strong>Elliptical</strong> is the widest in red silks</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1GYkSjNVjczLH5VW7InBSBmQuvhg7CYBA"><img width="450" height="332" title="race 6_elliptical 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_elliptical 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1fPbovtxYFKtkJ9XWJH7KslWy3UcjrecY"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Elliptical</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1z3AZazRhi3bYjFqdWoFBW5X5fM3_ybvI"><img width="450" height="359" title="race 6_holy manz 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_holy manz 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1OfEFSpPjcePNO-I92DqgdPfFCJrkh8ay"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Holymanz</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>A pretty good field had accepted for the Group 1 <em>Black Caviar Lightning</em> and included <strong>Nature Strip</strong>, acknowledged as the world’s top sprinter. He naturally was the hot favourite, but was disappointing, failing to run a place. The sole three year old filly <strong>Coolangatta</strong>, taking advantage of her weight advantage, and skilfully steered by top Jockey Jamie Kah, won the prize from the fast finishing I<strong> Wish I Win</strong> with <strong>Bella Nipotina</strong> filling third place, just ahead of <strong>September Run.</strong></p><p>It was a surprise result, but <strong>Coolangatta</strong> is no slouch as a race horse having won the 2022 <em>Magic Millions 2yo Classic</em> and also the Group 1 <em>Moir Stakes</em> last year. It will be interesting to see how she performs in the future.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1-33IrPJ1n_kp9z9Ae9P2l62Hy7tkBQjG"><img width="450" height="341" title="lightning stakes_bella nipotina_coolangatta 1" style="display: inline;" alt="lightning stakes_bella nipotina_coolangatta 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=17lpyVs49fi4mSjd1CzmVUrGOKvKO00X7"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Bella Nipotina</strong> and <strong>Coolangatta </strong>return to scale side by side</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=12fW4PuU-SBQY7UtEVKm-UoIumBlf83wV"><img width="450" height="315" title="lightning stakes_coolangatta 2" style="display: inline;" alt="lightning stakes_coolangatta 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1k_DFuhBvEYPzTjM7BeXHooK4U5TFpkXu"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Coolangatta </strong>returns to scale</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=13KfWl6ruQJzRUOfx2WKDMvFMT2w4ku2r"><img width="450" height="392" title="lightning stakes_i wish i winr 1" style="display: inline;" alt="lightning stakes_i wish i winr 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=17u9k6lYFWAKaz3QJO7ZIz_iAmU8lFr2i"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>I Wish I Win</strong> returns to scale</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=16rTBtdZry0HG4k1Zjv3d1BlCYWmM-qU7"><img width="450" height="405" title="lightning stakes_nature strip 1" style="display: inline;" alt="lightning stakes_nature strip 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=11nsS5QpnGz7TP6sfpLF53VGRS3SopvcZ"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Nature Strip</strong> returns to scale</font></em></p><p>The run of the race was no doubt<strong> I Wish I Win</strong>, who ran from last at the speed of lightning to narrowly miss out on winning.</p><p>He’s also one to watch for in the future.</p><p>I called it quits after that and headed home, glad to have witnessed yet another exciting running of the <em>Black Caviar Lightning</em> and seeing <strong>Nature Strip</strong> once more. He’s now 8 years old and in the twilight of his illustrious career, so there won’t be many more chances to see him in action in the future. </p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-12607589424159489622023-01-30T12:36:00.001+11:002023-01-30T12:36:56.900+11:00The Waiting Game<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1eYcK9Ar_jeMKIL_2mxkBFzcEk1kqFBVH"><img width="450" height="411" title="sophie_december 22 6 " style="display: inline;" alt="sophie_december 22 6 " src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1izZAuVwfl6OSLgqZ-9UyFTZ-UFY6R8JH"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Sophie</strong> – a recent photo</font></em></p><p>Here we are in a brand new year and I’ve been slack, feeling uninspired to write a blog post.</p><p>So far in 2023, nothing much has happened, life trundling along as normal as we grow older by the year.</p><p>Life without expectation of treats is not worth living, but I this year I am eagerly anticipating finally receiving my long ago ordered copy of the <a href="https://www.littlebig25.com/"><strong>25th anniversary edition of John Crowley’s wonderful novel Little, Big.</strong></a></p><p>It was in February 2005 that I subscribed to obtain a <em>Numbered Edition</em> of the book, so I’m living in high hopes that it will be delivered before mid year. Already, some subscribers to the standard Trade Edition have received their copies, but alas the Numbered Edition is delayed, due to issues in the manufacture of the Slip Cases. Hopefully those issues will be resolved soon.</p><p>Even though I have been patiently waiting for 18 years, somehow it has now become excruciating the closer it gets to actual delivery. </p><p>Fortunately there are other distractions to ease the waiting, such as the Autumn Racing Carnival.</p><p>Caulfield racecourse is being renovated this summer/autumn, so the Group races are being run at Sandown, not a track I have any intention of attending, so I’ll miss witnessing in person the <em>Blue Diamond Stakes</em> and other Group 1 races that are normally run at Caulfield. Luckily Flemington and Moonee Valley are sticking to the regular program of events, so I’ll attend a few in February and March, and have already purchased tickets to <em>Lightning Stakes Day</em> at Flemington and the <em>All Star Mile</em> at Moonee Valley.</p><p>Meanwhile on the domestic front, our cat Sophie rules the house.</p><p>She is almost a year old now, but still has Attitude with capital A, and is vengeful if thwarted, though not as violent as she was as a kitten.</p><p>My niece recently visited with her youngest daughter who is five years old, but surprisingly Sophie behaved quite civilly despite the daughter picking her up and carrying her around without being bitten or scratched. </p><p>She spends most of the day sleeping inside the house, but we try to keep her in at night, even though she resents being confined and will turn into the cat from hell in the blink of an eye, before finally settling down for the night</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-77990228094878480602022-11-07T20:29:00.001+11:002022-11-08T19:59:30.151+11:00The Stars of the Turf– Champion Stakes Day Review<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1bzluNVnr0SM8H4q8rAi7NkqyEejd06Wb"><img width="454" height="315" title="mounting yard sign" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="mounting yard sign" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1YdDoRbseD3E2eZJ9aKOyw3JAx1zv_YAb" border="0"></a><br><em><font size="2">Sign above Mounting Yard Gate at Flemington 5/10/22</font></em></p><p>Melbourne racing’s answer to Sydney, <strong>Champion Stakes Day,</strong> used to be called <strong>Emirates Stakes Day</strong>, and featured two Group 1 races – the <em>Mackinnon Stakes</em> and <em>Darley Sprint Classic</em>. It was also known as family day and was, and still is, the final race day of Flemington’s Melbourne Cup mini carnival. Generally it was a pleasant afternoon at the races and less crowded than Derby Day.</p><p>This year, however Racing Victoria launched a new concept race meeting that actually was better than Derby Day last weekend. It featured three Group 1 events, a sprint over 1200 metres, a mile race over 1600 metres and a middle distance competition over 2000 metres and had attracted quality fields in each. What’s not to love in keen contests between class horses such as <strong>Nature Strip</strong> versus <strong>Giga Kick</strong> in the <em>Champions Sprint</em>, <strong>Anamoe</strong> versus <strong>Zaaki </strong> in the <em>Champions Stakes</em> and <strong>Alligator Blood</strong> versus <strong>Private Eye</strong> in the <em>Champions Mile</em></p><p>The day dawned dry with a promise of sunshine, so it was a pleasure to set out for the big track and soak up the Group 1 action along with Vitamin D.</p><p>As trains to Flemington were running all afternoon at regular intervals, I took my time getting to the track and arrived as Race 3, the <em>Amanda Elliot</em> was in the process of running.</p><p>I had no trouble using my mobile ticket this time, having saved it to my phone for easy access.</p><p>The horses were returning to scale as I made it out onto the public lawn, so was was able to snap the winner, <strong>Magic Time</strong> heading for the mounting yard after the race.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1V1Cm4afBD4qLESUyuZ4syxq5ebbPgH1v"><img width="450" height="347" title="magic time 1" style="display: inline;" alt="magic time 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1oifeq_RZJsYwytG3iQ2cnGxWK2n2h1HL"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Magic Time</strong> returns to scale after winning the Amanda Elliott</font></em></p><p>As there was plenty of time in hand until the next race, I decided to head to the stalls and see who had arrived. Most of the horses I was interested in were present, so for a change I got some stalls shots.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1JMfIWqFXr0HzoZiWvZTfj0IFYhFPVV3W"><img width="450" height="382" title="stalls_anamoe 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_anamoe 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1vCFS-6wXBBjFmhjSZ4yukVrH0QkpRtGq"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Anamoe</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1HcVYZHm5H0ACYxljYgI-hqgXhg9Wbjjb"><img width="450" height="478" title="stalls_zaaki 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_zaaki 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1lHSCJzeHPvkTVl05NjiBFmaw2LE5SjBT"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Zaaki</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1u-mGThk1MAZ2gvp5jOMMT3hT7-KDbzmZ"><img width="450" height="398" title="stalls_nature strip 2" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_nature strip 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1yv_UGcygPgcVpIOSn0R-uafX8BlcQONT"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Nature Strip</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1GG9eQ6lxjPxhxwKoSITIdRVPkIcu6A_q"><img width="450" height="345" title="stalls_giga kick 1" style="display: inline;" alt="stalls_giga kick 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1zKfku3SH6xGaCXIV8Y_tjlnn5wogMLnO"></a><br><strong><font size="2">Giga Kick</font></strong></p><p>Whilst I was cruising around the stalls I missed Race 4, the <em>Queens Cup</em>, so failed to get a photo of the highly regarded Irish import <strong>Soulcombe</strong> who won it by over two lengths from <strong>Luncies </strong>and <strong>Captain Envious</strong>.</p><p>The next race was the Group 2 <em>Matriarch Stakes</em>, run over 2000 metres for mares, so I headed for my favourite spot just past the winning post and there I stayed for the rest of the afternoon.</p><p>The Chris Waller trained <strong>Atishu </strong>was the winner by two lengths from <strong>Steinem</strong> with <strong>Tokorangi </strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1DKzDMPCisL91lEys1TAouW-SkasU5VlU"><img width="450" height="287" title="race 5_mariarch stakes_finish 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_mariarch stakes_finish 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1-0B1UPbclzcuDSzsyguoZlW3hg7PMj9k"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Atishu</strong> wins the Matriarch Stakes</font></em> </p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1BDDiPvTJ6g3zRssf4_aw8s12p8KmzfGJ"><img width="450" height="356" title="race 5_mariarch stakes_atishu 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_mariarch stakes_atishu 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1pyExp5kQmzDhy2kM74er4R23LpYtx3XU"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Atishu</strong> on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1uD6ouQQ2k0P73rSf7E1bx2YoVa4ThYil"><img width="450" height="418" title="race 5_mariarch stakes_steinum 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_mariarch stakes_steinum 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1lCGs-RjggwqKBl4smXZg3TVAj5jHF-xU"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Steinem</strong> on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>The next three races were the Group 1 Champions events, starting off with the <em>Champions Sprint</em>. </p><p><strong>Nature Strip</strong> naturally started as the hot favourite, but this time he was outgunned by 20/1 shot <strong>Roch ‘N’ Horse</strong> who won by a narrow margin. <strong>Baller </strong>finished third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1KMHQYKjNVgTeBzEwKZ2bFKh8LZ2biomR"><img width="450" height="289" title="race 6_champions sprint_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_champions sprint_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1c2TDkyTnmDGFD2NEnB_SQMFpWMLKRae-"></a><br><em><font size="2">Jockey Jamie Mott celebrates <strong>Roch ‘N’ Horse’s</strong> victory in the Champion’s Sprint</font></em></p><p><strong>Roch ‘N’ Horse</strong> obviously has an affinity with the Flemington straight as she won the Group 1 <em>Newmarket Handicap</em> there in Autumn.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1u7J4WPbN_HhDml883Md1GsRrZKCIExb3"><img width="450" height="334" title="race 6_champions sprint_nature strip 4" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_champions sprint_nature strip 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1cINp5zNQ-zg_9hsxpEioGj87pZa9hRpE"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Nature Strip</strong> returns to scale</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1OtY2iw0I4I20JtBZJDA3G0K1fDTnpu7I"><img width="450" height="345" title="race 6_champions sprint_baller 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_champions sprint_baller 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1kQWROpFe3GA0oqzety_uWqpdigLcu3eD"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Baller</strong> returns to scale</font></em></p><p>Favourites were rolled in the next two races as well.</p><p>In the <em>Champions Mile</em>, <strong>Alligator Blood</strong>, racing on the pace held on to win by half a length from <strong>Tuvalu</strong> and <strong>Mr Brightside</strong>. Favourite <strong>Private Eye</strong> finished seventh.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=12DekAH4_ZGlAQ4uT3PfyboPX1-cS0u_Y"><img width="450" height="268" title="race 7_champions mile_finish 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_champions mile_finish 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1JURD7mpXZh5OrctnE5hD0gLOfSDhTmVl"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Alligator Blood</strong> wins the Champions Mile from <strong>Tuvalu</strong></font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Dw20My4mL1dVcTA6bt1M_bLclsDnZDz8"><img width="450" height="308" title="race 7_champions mile_alligator blood 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_champions mile_alligator blood 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Vthp4rOUHoMFYD8I-cebUwEgwEsqU8jo"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Alligator Blood</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1V4omB6o5dCeYKTMI_8c_MI1M28yEAzrk"><img width="450" height="287" title="race 7_champions mile_tuvalu 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_champions mile_tuvalu 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1hTsu91QbiHL9-sg1HKvEjNGGOL0oER1z"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Tuvalu</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=115Lii5HFf2MXI-bAYr2mj8fSPQmayLQK"><img width="450" height="354" title="race 7_champions mile_mr brightside 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 7_champions mile_mr brightside 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=17sCSOZdcCb1I6tw8ZR2-0GO_6YuVIvtq"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Mr Brightside</strong> returns to scale</font></em></p><p>It was good to see <strong>Alligator Blood</strong> back in winning circles after undergoing treatment for a back problem, and after all the controversy of his ownership, which at one time banned him from racing in Melbourne.</p><p>Last year <strong>Zaaki</strong> took out the <em>Mackinnon Stakes</em> as the <em>Champions Stakes</em> used to be known, and he repeated the feat this year, leading from the start to the finish to win narrowly from stablemate <strong>Mo’unga</strong> with outsider <strong>Hezashocka </strong> relegated to third after a successful protest from Nash Rawiller, <strong>Mo’unga’s</strong> jockey. <strong>Anamoe</strong> started as firm favourite, but finished fourth.</p><p>When heading out for the barriers, <strong>Zaaki </strong>unseated his jockey Jamie Kah, but she quickly remounted and all was well.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1XZodhSYLyrp8Q7z-jPAs_KO7M8jTR8tU"><img width="450" height="283" title="race 8_champions stakes_zaaki _tumble 1." style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_champions stakes_zaaki _tumble 1." src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1WCIBTgBrrJpS7fV8zgVCKaDM-xOs2NxR"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Zaaki </strong>unseats Jamie Kah on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=13bHo8Hq4Y_x6oPmWqnL4ZfYfne1_xo4u"><img width="450" height="409" title="race 8_champions stakes_zaaki 1." style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_champions stakes_zaaki 1." src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1CLVObEKGr-Sd3ObnLFKY3HXBRIjE4Tqf"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Zaaki </strong>resumes heading for the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1fmLTx3mMNTmp0Aqw3ROnysWaGmimeckF"><img width="450" height="358" title="race 8_champions stakes_zaaki 6." style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_champions stakes_zaaki 6." src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1SNCqtr5LzBVVuWXysZGIzgJJ_-92glMM"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Zaaki </strong>wins the Champions Stakes</font></em> </p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1C2rX0mgaU11ESI2gT7YLe6XPUT2g-_Kw"><img width="450" height="266" title="race 8_champions stakes_finish _places 2." style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_champions stakes_finish _places 2." src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=12CF9m_JthLXxhzQrb4_n18BETproUnvO"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Mo’unga (</strong>white cap) and<strong> Hezashocka</strong> vie for second place</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1u8asKqkutAsR9I-IEKdNMbfP3YZRmnMO"><img width="450" height="338" title="race 8_champions stakes_mo'unga 2." style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_champions stakes_mo'unga 2." src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=18l8xyXLEeVsZ3uAxgMyoBXu-kgAuniqR"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Mo’unga </strong>on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1J8rQxJxsxIOnWajCElmuK9--uDgtpAsY"><img width="450" height="296" title="race 8_champions stakes_hezashocka 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_champions stakes_hezashocka 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1uCXmq8F7h2QkNQS7-VypSUsVWlY3GXRd"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Hezashocka</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1HbD0sDgtpkdaZSehid3dOjFz4nPsVIII"><img width="450" height="338" title="race 8_champions stakes_zaaki 10." style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_champions stakes_zaaki 10." src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1532vMdFd94tKlmY54MVnXBzhSpoM8dO-"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Zaaki </strong>returns to scale</font></em></p><p>There was one more race on the card but I did not stay for it, heading to the station and home after the <em>Champions Stakes</em>.</p><p>It had been a fine afternoon of first class racing action, and despite the crowds, which were larger than Derby Day, I was pleased to be in attendance after missing it for two years due to Covid restrictions.</p><p>So from now on my Saturday afternoons will be free, though I may attend the Zipping Classic meeting at Caulfield a few weeks hence.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-83122023446598615652022-10-31T16:01:00.001+11:002022-11-01T13:52:19.676+11:00Derby Day 2022<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1bFcpnwW1fe81CimTdhEK0gwu0SL1hzpu"><img width="450" height="251" title="derby_ffinsih 3" style="display: inline;" alt="derby_ffinsih 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1LaCcnYxiESDqrbbVgoa135S6O3lyzjUh"></a><br><em><font size="2">Derby finish – <strong>Manzoice </strong> (blue silks) n his way to winning the Victoria Derby</font></em></p><p>The last time I attended the Derby meeting was in 2019 and the weather was shocking – heavy rain and a heavy track. The feature event was won by <strong>Warning </strong>at big odds.</p><p>This year the weather was not as bad, though throughout the afternoon rain showers had the attendees running for cover several times.</p><p>My arrival at Flemington coincided with the running of the third race, the Group 3 <em>Rising Fast Stakes</em> , but sad to say I missed it, being held up entering the course,. This was due to the newfangled mobile ticketing that I was obliged to accept when paying for my ticket on Ticketmaster. The trouble was that the ticket would not open in the Ticketmaster App on my phone at Flemington – quelle horreur!</p><p>All was not lost as I managed to get a printed ticket at the Ticketmaster booth at the entrance and could eventually enter.</p><p>The race had been run and won – I was pleased to note – by <strong>Argentia</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1jpNZOKhXqU4YjbNQsEyCYxB7QGjmyImu"><img width="450" height="308" title="argentia 1" style="display: inline;" alt="argentia 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1PGpTsEKgBxekXoJawhKdPAzGh9RWKgYs"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Argentia </strong>returns to scale in the mounting yard after winning the Rising Fast Stakes</font></em></p><p>I’ve been to many Derby Days in the past and they’ve all been jam packed. This year there were not as many people, no doubt due to the iffy weather. There were no patrons spread out on the grass, which made it easy to get around.</p><p>I ended up spending most the afternoon close to my favourite spot just past the clock tower on the public lawn</p><p>The atmosphere was predominantly cheerful and friendly.</p><p>Race 4 was the Group 2 <em>Wakeful Stake</em>, for three year old fillies run over 2000 metres.</p><p>Star jockey James McDonald rode four winners at Flemington on Saturday and the winner of the <em>Wakeful Stakes</em>, <strong>Zennzella</strong>, was the second of them.</p><p>She and <strong>Pavitra</strong> fought out the finish down the straight with <strong>Zennzella </strong>prevailing by a narrow margin. <strong>As Time Goes By</strong> ran third, two lengths behind. </p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1wimVW-W20xfDP27IV1kCtef_Z-Njpt2X"><img width="450" height="306" title="race 4_wakeful stakes_finish 8" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_wakeful stakes_finish 8" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1XtoJ-DFTtlEvFl50cPZyrXx9otpyWkz2"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Zennzella </strong>(blue spots) and <strong>Pavitra</strong> hit the line together</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1aYqp2UiVrW658wCr5-HVxCBzwNPu8H6X"><img width="450" height="306" title="race 4_wakeful stakes_zennzella 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_wakeful stakes_zennzella 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1yVlAMOaLJcArPzbJvIwQ1-2yNNYmEi3n"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Zennzella </strong>on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=15EZBI5iZPuBV2L-QXyp6H3UeGUW3EFED"><img width="450" height="300" title="race 4_wakeful stakes_pavitra 3" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_wakeful stakes_pavitra 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ySob49ZKLkM5-YlaA-WSBaFahrkeaXJg"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Pavitra </strong>returns to scale</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1qBGNLNyUeYKZNwjgjMzXHAg7VsNWfXWj"><img width="450" height="390" title="race 4_wakeful stakes_as time goes by 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_wakeful stakes_as time goes by 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1d-MXkV2kPWVs0DiNPkHnvr0M2dk2-FWB"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>As Time Goes By</strong> on her way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>Run over 1400 metres, the Group 3 <em>Linlithgow Stakes</em> resulted in another win for James McDonald who rode <strong>Old Flame</strong> to victory over <strong>Poland</strong> and <strong>Ironclad</strong> in the rain.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1PRYYQXYndnAcD69ZirsxjkmxC1XQlG3d"><img width="450" height="364" title="race 5_linlithgow stakes_old flame 4" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_linlithgow stakes_old flame 4" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1j8_Ipoh80lqHX32UefefTDFDNsBtjbCn"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Old Flame</strong> defeats <strong>Poland </strong>at the finishing post</font></em></p><p>The first of the Group 1 events was up next. This was the <em>Coolmore Stud Stakes</em>, a sprint over 1200 metres.</p><p>Again James McDonald was successful aboard blueblood Godolphin filly <strong>In Secret</strong>, who registered an impressive 2 length win over <strong>C’est Magique</strong> and<strong> Buenes Noches</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1d5K8EFDGjAfyWImO3pSzB4YY58MzxcGB"><img width="450" height="332" title="race 6_coolmore stud_finish 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_coolmore stud_finish 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1UWebHetqB9GSddn5dfuPzy2xlm6YWO0e"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>In Secret</strong> wins the Coolmore Stud Stakes</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Ul4HlbR6DfNxmzaWE6Fi_17qb56FP3_3"><img width="450" height="356" title="race 6_coolmore stud_in secret 5" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_coolmore stud_in secret 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1cCOSqv147ah-IXOrh5mimHZSZd_vHtDe"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>In Secret</strong> returns to scale</font></em></p><p>The feature race of the day was of course the <em>Victoria Derby</em>, a race for young stayers over 2500 metres.</p><p>James McDonald’s mount <strong>Sharp ‘n Smart</strong> started as favourite, but he was upstaged by the Chris Waller trained <strong>Manzoice</strong> who came in at big odds and caused a boilover result. Nothing new there, as the <em>Victoria Derby</em> often ends up in a long shot winner. 100/1 shot <strong>Aberfeldie Boy</strong> ran third.</p><p><br><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=19Vm74X4xBAEirLmQmhmt9ClJlD7PsRM_"><img width="450" height="328" title="derby_manzoice 6JPG" style="display: inline;" alt="derby_manzoice 6JPG" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1-BRlUdj0MbDXzVi3qIAu0_FpoOjd7udR"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Manzoice</strong> returns to scale</font></em></p><p>A race over 1600 metres, the <em>Empire Rose Stakes</em> was the final Group 1 event of the afternoon. The last time I saw it 2019 star New Zealand mare <strong>Melody Belle</strong> won it in torrential rain.</p><p>In this year’s edition, <strong>Icebath</strong> ran from the back of the large field, sneaking along the rail to seize the lead close to the finish line and hold on to win narrowly from <strong>Mirra Vision</strong> with <strong>Excelida</strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1QkowSOJbmeJfd0-WKKJRUK156evUj3b9"><img width="450" height="322" title="race 8_empire rose stakes_icebath 7" style="display: inline;" alt="race 8_empire rose stakes_icebath 7" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1IvsPdZzhxECfuRPt4rKNj_0LO1ZltRgl"></a><br><em><font size="2">I<strong>cebath</strong> wins the Empire Rose Stakes</font></em></p><p><strong>Icebath </strong>dumped her rider, Craig Williams, shortly after the finish, but registered a long overdue first Group 1 victory.</p><p>I headed for the station and home after the <em>Empire Rose Stakes</em>, having enjoyed a pleasant, if rather damp afternoon at the races.</p><p>Tomorrow is the <em>Melbourne Cup</em>. I haven’t a clue as to who the winner will be, but am glad I will not be there to witness it. The weather is predicted to be miserable – cold and wet.</p><p>I will however be returning to Flemington next Saturday for <strong>Champion Stakes Day</strong>, and hope my mobile ticket works this time. </p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27068668.post-8935488804884375702022-10-25T14:58:00.001+11:002022-10-25T20:11:55.476+11:00God(olphin)’s Gift to Racing–Cox Plate Review<p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=19m1xwG7TmtNiGhE71VMtQHFYr6Sic1Nx"><img width="450" height="418" title="cox plate_anamoe 11 ." style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_anamoe 11 ." src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1cPZ1-o-u3Wuol8xIlNYfOn47ZK3qd0P6"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Anamoe</strong> parades along the straight after winning the Cox Plate</font></em></p><p>Last Saturday Melbourne woke to a steady downpour of rain that looked as if had set in and would continue for the rest of the day. Oh dear, I thought, when I looked outside, that doesn’t look promising for an afternoon at the races.</p><p>It was <strong>Cox Plate Day</strong>, my favourite race of the Spring Racing Carnival, and the first I was able to attend after two years of Covid restrictions forbidding attendance at the Spring races. </p><p>However, I didn’t despair at the dire weather, just changed my strategy of arrival to a later time in the hope that the rain would ease off eventually.</p><p>Thankfully it did around midday and by the time I set out the rain had ceased to fall and things were looking up.</p><p>Equipped with raincoat and umbrella, along with my usual race going paraphernalia, I took the 510 (Ivanhoe to Essendon) Bus and arrived at Moonee Valley in time for the fourth race.</p><p>As <em>Cox Plate</em> attendance numbers go, it wasn’t all that crowded, and I managed to insert myself into a spot on the fence near the finish line, where I remained for the rest of the afternoon, luckily having brought my fold out step to sit on between races.</p><p>Race 4 was the Listed <em>Crockett Stakes</em>, run over 1200 metres for three year year old fillies, which resulted in a win for <strong>Wee Nessy</strong>, who beat <strong>Bay Thirteen</strong> by a length with <strong>Birdies Galore</strong> running third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1rXGroBbr8wu8RfqFTQY0UJrmhXvXZgYn"><img width="450" height="279" title="race 4_crockett stakes_finish 6" style="display: inline;" alt="race 4_crockett stakes_finish 6" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1sbNxxdCKgbkmk9AhrtOcDZ4_0oL8wqKd"></a> <br><em><font size="2"><strong>Wee Nessy</strong> (number 7) fights out the finish with <strong>Bay Thirteen</strong></font></em> </p><p>The track was heavy after all the rain that had fallen overnight and in the morning, and the lawn near the public bar was a virtual quagmire, but in rather better shape where I was standing.</p><p>As the earlier races were being run at thirty five minute intervals, the afternoon seemed to go quite quickly.</p><p>Another race for fillies, the Group 2, <em>Fillies Classic</em> (1600 metres) was next up. I remember that during the<strong> Winx</strong> years, <strong>Mystic Journey</strong> won the <em>Fillies Classic</em> in 2018 and subsequently won the inaugural <em>All Star Mile</em> in the following autumns.</p><p>This year’s edition was won by <strong>Zoe’s Promise</strong> who fought out the finish with <strong>Climbing Star</strong>, and race favourite <strong>Do It La</strong> finished third.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Ixi39D5owvPGdTcBNzbzc7pMIyQIrM5o"><img width="450" height="264" title="race 5_fillies classic_finish 5" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_fillies classic_finish 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1AJPGLS4IdDyaDch-4HIj5TlYCYQXgI-R"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Zoe’s Promise</strong> about to overtake <strong>Climbing Star</strong> as they gallop to the finish line</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1A1IKz1jXmBT18Yjg1mck3cIjHoptKDv6"><img width="450" height="341" title="race 5_fillies classic_zoe's promise 5" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_fillies classic_zoe's promise 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1osX9fHILbLEHxlRJaRhs-gEL3JZC8gfk"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Zoe’s Promise</strong> in the winners rug</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1uw_CRHWa8WisIueDdE3bD4_4QFsM1yj0"><img width="450" height="341" title="race 5_fillies classic_climbing star 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 5_fillies classic_climbing star 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=10DfEKdYm2Ur2wC9xMlda-Lbph-DZSvcq"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Climbing Star</strong> on her way to barriers</font></em></p><p>As the <em>Cox Plate</em> was scheduled as Race 9, there were still three more races to run before that happened. Happily the sun had emerged from the clouds by this time and it was quite warm</p><p>Race 6 was the mildly interesting <em>Crystal Mile</em>, a Group 2 race over 1600 metres.</p><p><strong>My Oberon</strong>, who I must admit I’ve never heard of, won the race convincingly from <strong>Banker’s Choice</strong> and race leader <strong>Buffalo River</strong>, coming wide to win by over a length.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=147vhfZetIYL2CdK7gTVchszYL2RZTpJi"><img width="450" height="326" title="race 6_crystal mile_my oberon 5" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_crystal mile_my oberon 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1JI7sgfiCNwX-Ifn7JIvLaPml6341fnFH"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>My Oberon</strong> gallops up the straight unopposed to win the Crystal Mile</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1D1WzKneixP4uY77ll9yoOl_hirmKLFsD"><img width="450" height="326" title="race 6_crystal mile_banker's choice_buffalo river 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_crystal mile_banker's choice_buffalo river 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=16BVkQt_M-NLPloKWVDoOuaUHfT386boG"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Banker’s Choice</strong> (No 8) & <strong>Buffalo River</strong> vie for second place</font></em></p><p>In past <em>Cox Plate</em> meetings I have attended, there was a count down to main event on the big screen. Not so this year, so I figured we still had two hours to hang out till the <em>main event</em>.</p><p><strong>Berkeley Square</strong> started as favourite for Race 7, the <em>Drummond Golf Vase</em> a race over the <em>Cox Plate</em> distance of 2040 metres and usually contested by Derby bound three year old's. Old fave <strong>Super Cool</strong> won it 2012, and 2016 <em>Caulfield Cup</em> winner <strong>Jameka </strong>won it in 2015.</p><p>This year <strong>Berkeley Square</strong> justified his starting price of $2.70 by winning narrowly from <strong>Virtuous Circle</strong> and <strong>Pericles</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1AevaZhJ1qsENOwB82hOOaAZrzedOKph5"><img width="450" height="317" title="race 6_vase_finish 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_vase_finish 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1iWgQPmbmtWLIangB7WRPHEGR0rpYwhdJ"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Berkeley Square</strong> (lime silks) tackles <strong>Pericles</strong> as they gallop up the straight</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1Hzdvf48G9aV_Su9bOiMZWv0a45B5XuLl"><img width="450" height="453" title="race 6_vase_berkeley square 2" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_vase_berkeley square 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1-lL2BQ5NzcFq_QFDpfId9ieeHfa1hXv2"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Berkeley Square</strong> returns to scale</font></em> </p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1JJoujjhULdEErXzr6mZhssiTG2cQsH9J"><img width="450" height="315" title="race 6_vase_virtuous circle 1" style="display: inline;" alt="race 6_vase_virtuous circle 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=10_OXxNj118Kn7b11VIuxExn-2aXahj3i"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Virtuous Circle</strong> on his way to the barriers</font></em></p><p>The <em>Moonee Valley Cup</em> is generally an interesting race, run as it is over 2500 metres, and contested by aspiring <em>Melbourne Cup</em> runners.</p><p>Looking at the form, my choice if I was going to have a bet would have been on <strong>Francesco Guardi</strong>. Ridden by James MacDonald, <strong>Francesco Guardi</strong> started as the favourite and didn’t disappoint, winning easily by almost four lengths from <strong>Lunar Flare</strong> with <strong>Persan</strong> running third another three lengths behind. A very impressive win on the part of <strong>Francesco Guardi</strong>, marking him as a horse to follow in the future. He certainly looked to be a classy beast in the flesh.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1SLeNfMWoAMrifUFL8Mf3dgrRv0k_siUA"><img width="450" height="381" title="Race 8_moonee valley cup_francesco guardi 3" style="display: inline;" alt="Race 8_moonee valley cup_francesco guardi 3" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1cdJmnCrXmjxKeQGCxiCs7ONYEuAE24On"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Francesco Guardi</strong> bolts up the straight to win the Moonee Valley Cup</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1OpIgnqBHWBFiucGuDsojcQIvAZpw-wrk"><img width="450" height="341" title="Race 8_moonee valley cup_francesco guardi 7" style="display: inline;" alt="Race 8_moonee valley cup_francesco guardi 7" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=13qPmpBLD0PzcjHQZggGVAiZuQKBw9DTO"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Francesco Guardi</strong> in the winners rug</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1qlYZbWADJ5inPRiXAzZbNuFZnPaxqeYG"><img width="450" height="339" title="Race 8_moonee valley cup_lunar flare 1" style="display: inline;" alt="Race 8_moonee valley cup_lunar flare 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1v-U4KhBY8MdlSBbSHe0WVSPqmDYMHNCq"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Lunar Flare</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1aCBPyTfaGUU6swl1RDbaG-9pb2ZzRxsO"><img width="450" height="308" title="Race 8_moonee valley cup_persan 2" style="display: inline;" alt="Race 8_moonee valley cup_persan 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1QQjgxbACuNBZYC4FcKbCMwsvwfzdVrWB"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Persan</font></em></strong></p><p>Up next, finally, was the <em>Cox Plate</em>, but before that was run, the usual pomp and ceremony occurred.</p><p>This involved a large sign being placed next to the finishing post, with a row of plinths holding previous <em>Cox Plate</em> trophies, whilst a bandstand was set up.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=10pkrM9Xa8N-VXREcjYGDV1tvFksYZhrD"><img width="450" height="171" title="cox plate_sign 1" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_sign 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1N1E1aDfo2iPF8o-9u0IQd3WdlAI6q42_"></a><br><em><font size="2">Large sign advertising the Cox Plate centenary anniversary</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1UgaHOZo_xv0pjYeCngKNXaWJ_W-gz7Uv"><img width="450" height="390" title="cox plate_winx 2015 plate 1" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_winx 2015 plate 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1OQfE9P45HtC-2PHs7eZi8qQm3JuHUYg1"></a><br><em><font size="2">Winx 2015 Cox Plate Trophy</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1mek86iZNk18wDnDzs2pcqOrGdd7uVppQ"><img width="450" height="300" title="cox plate_winx 2016 plate 1" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_winx 2016 plate 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=18Q-zGsDqjJH78VASGnvKnS5lrwp1Ws7M"></a><br><em><font size="2">Winx 2016 Cox Plate Trophy</font></em></p><p>Instead of Daryl Braithwaite, MVRC had engaged jockey and The Voice contestant, <strong>Robbie Dolan</strong> to perform “Horses”. Unfortunately my photos of Robbie Dolan turned out blurred for some reason, but he did a competent job singing the National Anthem and Horses, though was not as engaging as the original. The crowd sang along to the words they knew.</p><p>Soon enough the <em>Cox Plate</em> runners were emerging onto the track…</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1qsFWR07x0R1xruanQVXGNiKhm91L8DI9"><img width="450" height="326" title="cox plate_anamoe 2" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_anamoe 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1xC02ZJyrBgAwe5oLZT9dB2vFFdamENw0"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Anamoe</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1BMi5ucSXMOoqR86iDt-MkBXFapDwza9O"><img width="450" height="334" title="cox plate_alligator blood 2" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_alligator blood 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1gksSMl4Mq8kXa1WwbmPgOxRFHxru_59e"></a><br><em><strong><font size="2">Alligator Blood</font></strong></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1JbVj4M3FuIACBoN8sTPqOUpYbKaa3zN-"><img width="450" height="398" title="cox plate_mo'unga 1" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_mo'unga 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1kjDo1j08I3bErFBWlIF-rk5ChE1mt3_h"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Mo’unga</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1bAr1vnErrf5Mq2V5Xu2qvZdB5Pw0_PFs"><img width="450" height="321" title="cox plate_gold trip 1" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_gold trip 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1qAS51nkrSX2aF_EfAxZxQ3OQSebkexI_"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Gold Trip</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1j6aWNRLKRb6z0tKHtZsmLPNLOLbp5M4X"><img width="450" height="304" title="cox plate_el bodegon 2" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_el bodegon 2" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1zufC5AzHMNX7cBhfpcduul1A5k5UbrkW"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">El Bodegon</font></em></strong></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ZfEzY4iseDgnZ0DlwAs5HSHMOn9uoYdM"><img width="450" height="381" title="cox plate_zaaki 5" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_zaaki 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1IokdZVwEooEDZI_KAWRbx0f9R0n9xzC1"></a><br><strong><em><font size="2">Zaaki</font></em></strong></p><p>It had grown rather dark and overcast by this time, but the rain held off and the <em>Cox Plate</em> jumped at its allotted time of 5.10 pm.</p><p><strong>Zaaki </strong>who had drawn the inside gate immediately assumed the lead and <strong>Alligator Blood</strong> who had drawn the outside barrier quickly assumed second position as they passed the finishing post for the first time.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1hbkA4Ix3A9Erwaj8TfSlJqhUGew6EoKR"><img width="450" height="294" title="cox plate_first lap 1" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_first lap 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1dI3ZdoU_bNUgseFs0GlXDnz_ONNav0Tk"></a><br><em><font size="2">First lap –<strong> Zaaki</strong> leads with <strong>Alligator Blood</strong> & <strong>Profondo </strong>in hot pursuit</font></em></p><p><strong>Anamoe</strong> at this time had slotted into fourth spot, well situated to make a move later in the race.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1mDtblWHWl47sq0LkzU8SydQ94Tz88jFB"><img width="450" height="306" title="cox plate_first lap _anamoe 1" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_first lap _anamoe 1" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1YdJkgC4b1ZWhz3u6OKyuhuoigJt4DuYS"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Anamoe</strong> first lap in fourth place ahead of <strong>Laws of Indices</strong></font></em></p><p>As the they turned the corner into the straight <strong>Anamoe</strong>, masterfully steered by James MacDonald, overtook the leaders and raced to the front to win by a narrow margin. <strong>I’m Thunderstruck</strong>, it seems the eternal bridesmaid, came from the back of the field to run second ahead of <strong>El Bodegon</strong>.</p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1AdxAwgvXruYd5AKmKj6c1CaIZs25zkBr"><img width="450" height="272" title="cox plate_finsih 7" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_finsih 7" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1-u1Mr4eYFyC-Lfi-Qu23rdKUkjTXshns"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Anamoe </strong>overtakes <strong>Zaaki </strong>to go on and win the 2022 Cox Plate</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1TsP--WT0SAbKq4HQkc788SdemrVIsd7j"><img width="450" height="289" title="cox plate_anamoe 5" style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_anamoe 5" src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1ixT3ADu14XuM9RiqWTfYj5hlvYcGuOav"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong><strong>An</strong>amoe </strong>returns to scale</font></em> </p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1YrbCtNxKrdYeHhRHQcEoDoPiUi_6LWyo"><img width="450" height="300" title="cox plate_anamoe 23." style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_anamoe 23." src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=15AFIwh1ekPpeStki5jQgjt3uFSBEdWED"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Anamoe</strong> in the winners rug</font></em></p><p><a href="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1widU-BWsCLCl1X3qOC68r0hQd3UiUX4v"><img width="450" height="261" title="cox plate_anamoe 28." style="display: inline;" alt="cox plate_anamoe 28." src="https://drive.google.com/uc?id=1RCGCLnQMCwYT4rDXzpN3IIrdLoE-hBY9"></a><br><em><font size="2"><strong>Anamoe </strong>– head shot</font></em></p><p>And so ended the 100th <em>Cox Plate, </em>which I must admit lived up to its promise and was a memorable occasion. Godolphin are to be commended for continuing to race<strong> Anamoe</strong> into his fourth year, rather than retiring him to stud as they normally would do. He has now won seven Group 1 races, his last four consecutively this Spring.</p><p>The<em> Manikato Stakes</em>, abandoned the previous night due to lightning, was tacked onto the <em>Cox Plate</em> meeting as Race 11, but I did not stay for it, opting to head home after the feature event. <strong>Bella Nipotina</strong> registered her first Group 1 win, beating <strong>Rothfire</strong> by almost five lengths, with <strong>Best of Bordeaux</strong> running third.</p><p>Next Saturday I’m looking forward to heading to Flemington for the <em>Victorian Derby</em> - a change of scene from Moonee Valley.</p>Anne Shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258633760886787723noreply@blogger.com2