Spirited Halo leaves the field far behind
MATT CRAM
28/09/2009 12:00:00 AM
TALENTED sprinter Spirited Halo acquired a new string to his bow in a devastating victory in Saturday’s $12,000 Rating 78 Hcp (1400m) at Wangaratta.
Jockey Matt Pumpa barely had to move a muscle on the Bel Esprit gelding as the $3.30 favourite streaked clear of his rivals for a massive nine-length win on the heavy (10) track.
Liz Aalbers’ battler Firetime ($11) was second ahead of Johadina ($3.40).
It was Spirited Halo’s first victory for Mornington trainer John White since leaving Matthew Ellerton’s Melbourne stables in March.
“Would you believe it, I bought him in March and tipped him out for the winter because his form showed he wasn’t a wet-tracker,” White told.
“But he ran a pretty good race on a heavy eight two starts back (at Bendigo) and then obviously relished the conditions yesterday.”
Ellerton had a high opinion of the now five-year-old, racing him mostly in Melbourne including in the listed McKenzie Stakes where he finished seven lengths behind boom three-year-old Light Fantastic last year.
White said he saw a frustrated horse when he inspected Spirited Halo at an Ellerton sale.
“He looked really angry and cranky and like he wasn’t appreciating being trained in the city,’ White said.
“So I took him out to Mornington and give him plenty of time out in the paddock and I think it’s made a difference.”
White avoided racing Spirited Halo at his home track on Saturday in favour of giving the horse some winning confidence.
“There wasn’t a race for him in Mornington and I wanted to get a win in him,” White said.
“We want to get the money back for the owners first and then take it from there.
“It wasn’t a strong field he beat but if he can improve, who knows.”
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Breeze Up Sales 29/9/09
Sizzling Times As Sequalo Filly Runs Quickest At Gold Coast
Lightning times were the order of the day at the Gold Coast Turf Club today when the first of two breeze up sessions in the lead up to the 2009 Magic Millions Horses in Training Sale was held.
Some 34 horses broke the magical 11 seconds barrier - headlined by the 10.35 seconds carved out by a filly by Sequalo from Baramul Stud.
Catalogued as lot number 138, the Sequalo filly is the first foal of a Danehill three quarter sister to Verstak and half sister to Show of Force.
Two colts - by Danzero and Happy Giggle - ran the second quickest time of the day - 10.4 seconds.
Another pair of two-year-olds ran under 10.5 - colts by Danehill stallions Untouchable and Fastnet Rock.
First season sires to impress with sub 11 runners included the likes of Stratum, Hidden Dragon, Keep the Faith, Snitzel, Jet Spur, Greenwood Lake and Snippetson.
Others to run under 11 seconds today included progeny of proven sires including Flying Spur, Bel Esprit, Sequalo, Al Maher, Testa Rossa, Hussonet, More Than Ready, Bletchley Park, Fastnet Rock, Savabeel and Tale of the Cat.
Magic Millions Managing Director David Chester said the session was extremely successful with a number of stand out performances.
"We've never had so many horses run under 11 seconds here at the Gold Coast track before," Chester said.
"And this just the first session of breeze ups - there will be plenty more to be put through their paces next month."
Chester said the horses were exceptionally presented by their vendors and he was confident they would be well received by prospective buyers in the lead up the popular auction.
"The vendors keep getting more professional each year," Chester pointed out. "They should be congratulated for how the day went."
"There are plenty of good looking horses and most importantly they all look exciting racetrack prospects."
Video clips from the breeze ups will be available from Thursday on the Magic Millions website.
And entries remain open for the new racehorse sale to be held on the day following the second session of the Horses in Training Sale next month.
"Entries are just $150 plus GST - this is the best spot to offer your tried galloper to a worldwide buying bench."
Anyone requiring information on any of the sale days should contact the Bloodstock Department of Magic Millions.
TOP TEN BREEZE-UP TIMES
10.35 secs - Sequalo-Double Strength filly (Baramul Stud)
10.40 secs - Danzero-Bluevien colt (Heran Racing Pty Ltd)
10.40 secs - Happy Giggle-Freaky Fran colt (Kingsportz Pty Ltd)
10.43 secs - Untouchable-Pickabox colt (Attunga Stud)
10.53 secs - Hidden Dragon-Miss Bletchingly colt (Washpool Lodge)
10.54 secs - Fusaichi Pegasus-Little 'n' Cute colt (BC3 Thoroughbreds)
10.60 secs - Untouchable-Upper Notch colt (Nolen Racing)
10.61 secs - Fusaichi Pegasus-Pamplona colt (Racetree)
10.64 secs - Stratum-Whirligig colt (BC3 Thoroughbreds)
10.65 secs - Bel Esprit-Bellain colt (Washpool Lodge)
Lightning times were the order of the day at the Gold Coast Turf Club today when the first of two breeze up sessions in the lead up to the 2009 Magic Millions Horses in Training Sale was held.
Some 34 horses broke the magical 11 seconds barrier - headlined by the 10.35 seconds carved out by a filly by Sequalo from Baramul Stud.
Catalogued as lot number 138, the Sequalo filly is the first foal of a Danehill three quarter sister to Verstak and half sister to Show of Force.
Two colts - by Danzero and Happy Giggle - ran the second quickest time of the day - 10.4 seconds.
Another pair of two-year-olds ran under 10.5 - colts by Danehill stallions Untouchable and Fastnet Rock.
First season sires to impress with sub 11 runners included the likes of Stratum, Hidden Dragon, Keep the Faith, Snitzel, Jet Spur, Greenwood Lake and Snippetson.
Others to run under 11 seconds today included progeny of proven sires including Flying Spur, Bel Esprit, Sequalo, Al Maher, Testa Rossa, Hussonet, More Than Ready, Bletchley Park, Fastnet Rock, Savabeel and Tale of the Cat.
Magic Millions Managing Director David Chester said the session was extremely successful with a number of stand out performances.
"We've never had so many horses run under 11 seconds here at the Gold Coast track before," Chester said.
"And this just the first session of breeze ups - there will be plenty more to be put through their paces next month."
Chester said the horses were exceptionally presented by their vendors and he was confident they would be well received by prospective buyers in the lead up the popular auction.
"The vendors keep getting more professional each year," Chester pointed out. "They should be congratulated for how the day went."
"There are plenty of good looking horses and most importantly they all look exciting racetrack prospects."
Video clips from the breeze ups will be available from Thursday on the Magic Millions website.
And entries remain open for the new racehorse sale to be held on the day following the second session of the Horses in Training Sale next month.
"Entries are just $150 plus GST - this is the best spot to offer your tried galloper to a worldwide buying bench."
Anyone requiring information on any of the sale days should contact the Bloodstock Department of Magic Millions.
TOP TEN BREEZE-UP TIMES
10.35 secs - Sequalo-Double Strength filly (Baramul Stud)
10.40 secs - Danzero-Bluevien colt (Heran Racing Pty Ltd)
10.40 secs - Happy Giggle-Freaky Fran colt (Kingsportz Pty Ltd)
10.43 secs - Untouchable-Pickabox colt (Attunga Stud)
10.53 secs - Hidden Dragon-Miss Bletchingly colt (Washpool Lodge)
10.54 secs - Fusaichi Pegasus-Little 'n' Cute colt (BC3 Thoroughbreds)
10.60 secs - Untouchable-Upper Notch colt (Nolen Racing)
10.61 secs - Fusaichi Pegasus-Pamplona colt (Racetree)
10.64 secs - Stratum-Whirligig colt (BC3 Thoroughbreds)
10.65 secs - Bel Esprit-Bellain colt (Washpool Lodge)
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Waltzes 27/9/09
The Triple Waltzes
The horse with the Bel Esprit action won his third consecutive race at Swan Hill over 975m today and the way he won he might win five on end as did his Dad.
Waltzes, with Brady Cross on board as he has in his other two wins, jumped to the front again only today he was taken on by the well backed second favourite Happy Honey who he fought off in the straight to record a convincing five length win.
This four year old is out of a Picnicker mare Dance the Music and grand dam sire to no other than Snippets who is most successful with Bel Esprit.
This has taken Rob Slade’s wife Corinna to equal leader on the owners premiership with ten wins and the horses that sent her up there are Belcentra3, Tassolegy1, Seasonality2, Mooring1, Waltzes3.
Waltzes, with Brady Cross on board as he has in his other two wins, jumped to the front again only today he was taken on by the well backed second favourite Happy Honey who he fought off in the straight to record a convincing five length win.
This four year old is out of a Picnicker mare Dance the Music and grand dam sire to no other than Snippets who is most successful with Bel Esprit.
This has taken Rob Slade’s wife Corinna to equal leader on the owners premiership with ten wins and the horses that sent her up there are Belcentra3, Tassolegy1, Seasonality2, Mooring1, Waltzes3.
Waltzes (AUS) [2005] Jarrod Mclean
Bel Esprit (AUS) - Dance The Music (AUS)
Sold $80000, Slade Bloodstock, VIC at William Inglis and Son Ltd. 2007 Premier Yearling by Eliza Park, Kerrie Vic
Sibling
STORMY HUNTER (AUS) [2003] - GENUINE (JPN)3w-4p-22s $20,800Race: 1009-2100m Won: 1516-1980m Wet: 0w-0p-2s
STORMY HUNTER (AUS) [2003] - GENUINE (JPN)3w-4p-22s $20,800Race: 1009-2100m Won: 1516-1980m Wet: 0w-0p-2s
Spirited Halo 26/9/09
Spirited Halo Then Daylight 
The Bel Esprits have won one hundred and thirty five races and none have won as easily at Spirited Halo did at Wangaratta today.
With Matt Pumpa on board this five year old spreadeagled the field to win by nine lengths on a track that was downgraded to heavy 10 just before the race started. On the Peninsula Bloodstock web page I found the story on the trainer who has won two races with his last three starters.
John White (pictured right), at the age of 32, is a young man with experience that is paramount to any
young trainers career. A self starter John's lifelong passion and love of horses from an early age meant that a career in racehorse training was the only option.
The Bel Esprits have won one hundred and thirty five races and none have won as easily at Spirited Halo did at Wangaratta today.
With Matt Pumpa on board this five year old spreadeagled the field to win by nine lengths on a track that was downgraded to heavy 10 just before the race started. On the Peninsula Bloodstock web page I found the story on the trainer who has won two races with his last three starters.
John White (pictured right), at the age of 32, is a young man with experience that is paramount to any
young trainers career. A self starter John's lifelong passion and love of horses from an early age meant that a career in racehorse training was the only option.He has seen himself grow from a stable hand in NSW for trainers such as Max Lees and Paul Perry to Head Foreman for Australia's Leading Trainer Lee Freedman.John has gained extensive and practical knowledge over the past 6 years, and is very realistic about the necessity to run a successful and profitable business as being paramount to any young trainer's career.
John is an excellent horseman, his greatest assets being his complete understanding of the racehorse, hands on care, sharp eye and attention to detail.John has been very fortunate to have had the experience to work with Hall Of Fame and best trainer and best race horses such as Alinghi, Special Harmony, Mummify and of course the ultimate in Makybe Diva. John knows what it takes for a racehorse to compete at the highest level and has the work ethic to compliment this.
After a three and a half year stint Freedman, John decided that it was time to put all the knowledge and experience into practice and devise his own training regimes and bring them to fruition.John gained his trainers license in Feb 2007, 'took a punt' and branched out on his own.
He has enjoyed considerable success through training multiple provincial and metropolitan winners. The passion, desire and the drive to succeed will see John live his life long dream of becoming a successful racehorse trainer and achieve results on the racetrack
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Bel Esprit 24/9/09
Stallion Bel Esprit’s a Legend with the Fillies
Macedon Ranges Leader
16 Sep 09 @ 08:00am by Barry Kennedy
Macedon Ranges Leader
16 Sep 09 @ 08:00am by Barry Kennedy
Lay one on me baby! Champion stud Bel Esprit shows his best features at Eliza Park stud in Kerrie near Romsey. Picture: DENNIS MANKTELOWIF Errol Flynn had been reincarnated as a horse, he might have been Bel Esprit.
Like the Hollywood showman, Bel Esprit, a resident stallion at Eliza Park in Kerrie near Romsey, is legendary with the ladies.
A former front runner on the track, well-connected but from humble beginnings and a strongman with impressive stamina, the 10-year-old horse is in his prime in spring.
In 2007 as the thoroughbred industry was in lockdown with equine influenza, Bel Esprit was busy servicing 266 mares - an Australian record and possible world record for a season’s work in the stud, which has 10 prized stallions.
This year with several of his offspring such as Black Caviar making names for themselves on the track, Bel Esprit is again in demand.
Reigning Victorian sire champion, Bel Esprit is ranked eighth in the country.
Offspring of the champion have won close to $500,000, with 21 wins this season to September 9.
Eliza Park marketing manager Greg Tobin said the regular wins by sires of Bel Esprit were keeping the mares coming through the stable door, paying $15,500 for the privilege.
Fortunately the stallion rises to the challenge.
“Some would say it’s too punishing, but he is like an 18-year-old in a nightclub,” Mr Tobin said.
“Every horse has its idiosyncrasies - Esprit has an unrivalled libido.”
Meticulous preparations are made with every mare, while Bel Esprit’s condition is monitored throughout the spring.
Joint owner and former Essendon footballer Brian Donahoe said watching big wins by Bel Esprit alongside fellow owner Kevin Sheedy was one of his life highlights.
Bel Esprit was bought for $9000 at the 2001 Sydney Classic Yearling Sale.
5 year olds 24/9/09
B E Mares
It is time of the year when the youngsters are about to hit the tracks, Bel Esprit has only won two races for two year olds, raced before the new year.
Remember when they first ran and the knockers were around saying that the fillies were OK but where are the colts?
The shoe is on the other hoof now because two months into the five year old season and the fillies haven't won a race from twenty two starts while the five year old boys have won five races from eighteen starts, a strike rate of 28%.
It makes one think of the story last Monday about Bel Esprit's dad, Royal Academy breeding the two group winners last saturdayand who has come from 90 to 29 to 13 and now 8 on the list of Broodmare sires.
hopefully Bel Esprit mares will do the same thing.
It is time of the year when the youngsters are about to hit the tracks, Bel Esprit has only won two races for two year olds, raced before the new year.
Remember when they first ran and the knockers were around saying that the fillies were OK but where are the colts?
The shoe is on the other hoof now because two months into the five year old season and the fillies haven't won a race from twenty two starts while the five year old boys have won five races from eighteen starts, a strike rate of 28%.
It makes one think of the story last Monday about Bel Esprit's dad, Royal Academy breeding the two group winners last saturdayand who has come from 90 to 29 to 13 and now 8 on the list of Broodmare sires.
hopefully Bel Esprit mares will do the same thing.
Sizzling Spring 24/9/09
Sizzling run for two in a row
Cowra Guardian
23/09/2009 9:11:00 AM
Ken Parsons has rejuvenated the career of another stalled metropolitan galloper after enjoying a second win in as many starts with Sizzling Spring.
The five-year-old gelding cruised to a comfortable win in the The Advisory Group Class 1 Handicap (1300m) at Dubbo in class record time on Sunday.
It backed up a similar sterling effort at Wagga as the son of Bel Esprit looks to climb through the classes.
An inexpensive pick-up from Hawkesbury trainer Brian Firth, the Cowra horseman, known for his uncanny ability of resurrecting many careers in the country, is already reaping the rewards from his shrewd investment.
“I’ve only had him for the two starts and he’s won both,” Parsons (pictured) said.
“I watched him a couple of times at Bathurst when Brian had brought him up and liked him.
“One of the days he rang me up and said he wanted to sell him and I asked how much and he said he would take what he could get for him.
“I put him in the paddock for 12 months and he’s won both, that’s sort of how I came to get him.”
The $6 chance, ridden by in-form hoop Michael Travers, settled near the rear of the field before sprinting away for a two-length win from the Collen Thurston-trained Mullitover ($12).
The Grant Buckley-ridden Exorcize, a $4.60 equal favourite, was a long neck further away in third.
Parsons said he was pleased with Sizzling Spring’s second-up effort considering the difficulties usually associated with handling the step up in class.
“I was very happy. When they’re in Class 1, it’s very hard to win straight after their maiden, but he did.
“I asked Michael (Travers) to ride him similar to Wagga. He comes better from behind, he is a very relaxed horse.”
Cowra Guardian
23/09/2009 9:11:00 AM
Ken Parsons has rejuvenated the career of another stalled metropolitan galloper after enjoying a second win in as many starts with Sizzling Spring.
The five-year-old gelding cruised to a comfortable win in the The Advisory Group Class 1 Handicap (1300m) at Dubbo in class record time on Sunday.
It backed up a similar sterling effort at Wagga as the son of Bel Esprit looks to climb through the classes.
An inexpensive pick-up from Hawkesbury trainer Brian Firth, the Cowra horseman, known for his uncanny ability of resurrecting many careers in the country, is already reaping the rewards from his shrewd investment.
“I’ve only had him for the two starts and he’s won both,” Parsons (pictured) said.
“I watched him a couple of times at Bathurst when Brian had brought him up and liked him.
“One of the days he rang me up and said he wanted to sell him and I asked how much and he said he would take what he could get for him.
“I put him in the paddock for 12 months and he’s won both, that’s sort of how I came to get him.”
The $6 chance, ridden by in-form hoop Michael Travers, settled near the rear of the field before sprinting away for a two-length win from the Collen Thurston-trained Mullitover ($12).
The Grant Buckley-ridden Exorcize, a $4.60 equal favourite, was a long neck further away in third.
Parsons said he was pleased with Sizzling Spring’s second-up effort considering the difficulties usually associated with handling the step up in class.
“I was very happy. When they’re in Class 1, it’s very hard to win straight after their maiden, but he did.
“I asked Michael (Travers) to ride him similar to Wagga. He comes better from behind, he is a very relaxed horse.”
Monday, September 21, 2009
Tollesprit 21/9/09
Tollesprit to have scans on injured legs
Monday, 21 September 2009:
Trainer Shane Fliedner fears Tollesprit's Caulfield Guineas campaign may be over.Fliedner said he would not know until the three-year-old's legs are scanned whether he will be able to train on to the Guineas on October 10.
Tollesprit was injured in Saturday's Guineas Prelude (1400m) and pulled up lame in the off fore leg and with lacerations to both hind legs."He was in the wars and he's not out of them yet," Fliedner said."He is getting some x-rays done tomorrow (Tuesday) to decide whether we go on with him or not."He has been sore but is not as sore at the moment although that doesn't mean there is nothing amiss.
"Tollesprit was one of the leading chances for the Guineas but has drifted dramatically from $13 to $31 with TAB Sportsbet.Fliedner was planning to run Tollesprit in the Listed Poseidon Stakes (1400m) at Flemington on October 3 and then back him up in the Guineas.Only last week he declared Tollesprit was the horse to beat in the Group One feature.
Monday, 21 September 2009:
Trainer Shane Fliedner fears Tollesprit's Caulfield Guineas campaign may be over.Fliedner said he would not know until the three-year-old's legs are scanned whether he will be able to train on to the Guineas on October 10.
Tollesprit was injured in Saturday's Guineas Prelude (1400m) and pulled up lame in the off fore leg and with lacerations to both hind legs."He was in the wars and he's not out of them yet," Fliedner said."He is getting some x-rays done tomorrow (Tuesday) to decide whether we go on with him or not."He has been sore but is not as sore at the moment although that doesn't mean there is nothing amiss.
"Tollesprit was one of the leading chances for the Guineas but has drifted dramatically from $13 to $31 with TAB Sportsbet.Fliedner was planning to run Tollesprit in the Listed Poseidon Stakes (1400m) at Flemington on October 3 and then back him up in the Guineas.Only last week he declared Tollesprit was the horse to beat in the Group One feature.
Spiritsoftheriver 21/9/09
A Bolting Spirit
Bel Esprit has one hundred and nineteen winners, one third have the name esprit or spirit within the name and none could have been more impressive than Spiritoftheriver who won her first start in the Wimmera Racing Club Maiden Plate over 1200m at Warracknabeal today.
Opening up a short priced favourite, the combination of the Vellas, Kylie the trainer, Steven the jockey and let’s not forgwt, there is a Vella among the owners, A M Arrowsmith, P G Arrowsmith, Dorian 1 Racing Syndicate, L Dorian & Mrs K Vella, made it all happen. Jumping from the wide barrier nine, she raced forward, hitting the front in the straight and tore away to win by four lengths untouched.
We are happy as Mark Arrowsmith bought one of our nominations in 2004for his mare Riverside Lass and with this success, he might buy another nomination and send his mare back in 2010. Riverside Lass is a mare out of Noalcholic and Beltrois (Vaingt Trois) and Esprit of Eve (Apalachicola) are the other winners out of mares by Noalcholic
Spiritoftheriver (AUS) [2005] Kylie Vella
Opening up a short priced favourite, the combination of the Vellas, Kylie the trainer, Steven the jockey and let’s not forgwt, there is a Vella among the owners, A M Arrowsmith, P G Arrowsmith, Dorian 1 Racing Syndicate, L Dorian & Mrs K Vella, made it all happen. Jumping from the wide barrier nine, she raced forward, hitting the front in the straight and tore away to win by four lengths untouched.
We are happy as Mark Arrowsmith bought one of our nominations in 2004for his mare Riverside Lass and with this success, he might buy another nomination and send his mare back in 2010. Riverside Lass is a mare out of Noalcholic and Beltrois (Vaingt Trois) and Esprit of Eve (Apalachicola) are the other winners out of mares by Noalcholic
Spiritoftheriver (AUS) [2005] Kylie Vella
Bel Esprit (AUS) - Riverside Lass (AUS)
MAGICAL RIVER (AUS) [2002] - LACRYMA CRISTI (IRE)0w-3p-13s $4,300Race: 1000-2200m Won: 0-0m Wet: 0w-1p-4s
MAGICAL RIVER (AUS) [2002] - LACRYMA CRISTI (IRE)0w-3p-13s $4,300Race: 1000-2200m Won: 0-0m Wet: 0w-1p-4s
PORTRAIT LASS (AUS) [2003] - PERUGINO (USA)5w-8p-30s $52,400Race: 1000-1612m Won: 1100-1400m Wet: 2w-1p-4s
Bel Esprit's Dad 20/9/09
Siblings Provide Big Double For Royal Academy Mare
Story By Nathan Exelby
Saturday, 19 September 2009: It's not often full-brothers salute on the same day, but that was the case at Caulfield today, with Rightfully Yours followed by Group 1 winner Heart Of Dreams in a notable black type double.
The Show A Heart brothers are from the Royal Academy mare Academy Of Dreams.Owner/breeder Larry Bartle is clearly of the opinion that Show A Heart is the perfect partner for the mare – and why not!Academy Of Dreams has been to Show A Heart in each of the past six seasons, with Rightfully Yours being the oldest of those.The now five-year-old was denied a stakes success when losing the Listed Prime Minister's Cup on protest through the winter, but made amends with his first up win today. He is now the winner of eight races and more than $300,000 in prizemoney.However, he has to play second fiddle to his younger brother Heart Of Dreams in the family pecking order. The now four-year-old gelding landed his second Group 1 victory when taking today's G1 Underwood Stakes. It followed his success in the G1 Australian Guineas earlier in the year. Heart Of Dreams' record now stands at five wins for earnings of more than $900,000, with the promise of more to come after defeating a stellar field today.
Story By Nathan Exelby
Saturday, 19 September 2009: It's not often full-brothers salute on the same day, but that was the case at Caulfield today, with Rightfully Yours followed by Group 1 winner Heart Of Dreams in a notable black type double.
The Show A Heart brothers are from the Royal Academy mare Academy Of Dreams.Owner/breeder Larry Bartle is clearly of the opinion that Show A Heart is the perfect partner for the mare – and why not!Academy Of Dreams has been to Show A Heart in each of the past six seasons, with Rightfully Yours being the oldest of those.The now five-year-old was denied a stakes success when losing the Listed Prime Minister's Cup on protest through the winter, but made amends with his first up win today. He is now the winner of eight races and more than $300,000 in prizemoney.However, he has to play second fiddle to his younger brother Heart Of Dreams in the family pecking order. The now four-year-old gelding landed his second Group 1 victory when taking today's G1 Underwood Stakes. It followed his success in the G1 Australian Guineas earlier in the year. Heart Of Dreams' record now stands at five wins for earnings of more than $900,000, with the promise of more to come after defeating a stellar field today.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Sizzling Spring 20/9/09
Another Sizzling Success
IT is well documented that Black Caviar has won her last two starts and there are others to register the same result this season.
The Package, Champagne Flute, Waltzes, Striding Success and today, Sizzling Spring joined the list of consecutive winners. Starting from barrier seven Michael Travers drove Striding Spring to the front and although other runners loomed up in the straight, he went away again to win by two and a quarter lengths.
Ken Parsons, who took over the training this time in has done a great job and he is a horse that is destined to run through his classes. Today’s race, the Advisory Group Class 1 Handicap at Wagga, was over 1300m, up 100m from last start and he raced over 1800m when last in training for Brian Firth.
Sizzling Spring (AUS) [2004]
The Package, Champagne Flute, Waltzes, Striding Success and today, Sizzling Spring joined the list of consecutive winners. Starting from barrier seven Michael Travers drove Striding Spring to the front and although other runners loomed up in the straight, he went away again to win by two and a quarter lengths.
Ken Parsons, who took over the training this time in has done a great job and he is a horse that is destined to run through his classes. Today’s race, the Advisory Group Class 1 Handicap at Wagga, was over 1300m, up 100m from last start and he raced over 1800m when last in training for Brian Firth.
Sizzling Spring (AUS) [2004]
Bel Esprit (AUS) - True Spirit (AUS)
Psd $45,000 Res $50,000, at Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale 2006 by Ducatoon Park, Kadina SA
Sold $35000, J Gask, SA at Magic Millions National Yearling Sale 2006 by Widden Stud, Widden Valley NSW
Siblings
EILATAN (AUS) [1995] - BLUEBIRD (USA)9w-13p-60s $165,500Race: 1000-3300m Won: 1000-2900m Wet: 6w-4p-17sG2 0w-0p-1s, LR 0w-0p-1s
EILATAN (AUS) [1995] - BLUEBIRD (USA)9w-13p-60s $165,500Race: 1000-3300m Won: 1000-2900m Wet: 6w-4p-17sG2 0w-0p-1s, LR 0w-0p-1s
PRECISIONIST (AUS) [2001] - BLEVIC (AUS)1w-5p-26s $8,600Race: 1200-2200m Won: 1600-1600m Wet: 0w-1p-2s
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Beau Esprit 19/9/09
A Quinella at Echuca
After being scratched from first up starts at Swan Hill and Sandown because of slow tracks, Beau Esprit went to the barrier at Echuca on a dead track over 1012m in the Classic Rock Handicap.
Ridden by Nick Souquet, this Peter Maher trained gelding raced forward three wide all the way and showed great fighting spirit to overtake the favourite La Bella Roo, who headed him in the straight, on the line and win by a head giving Bel Esprit the quinella.
This is Beau Esprit's sixth win ($103,814) equalling Snip Esprit for the most wins by the progeny, five of these wins for trainer Peter Maher. Congratulations to the owners M J Duffy, M P O'Brien, E O'Brien, D C Cox, K E Farrell, J A Henderson, E L Cooney, D Karpin, P B Comley & Wren Hotels Pty Ltd Synd (Mgnr: J Shelton) who expect the horse to win by up to a "mile" this time in.
Michael Duffy's wife, Carol bred Perfect Sky won has won five races (S$229,117) and tonight has the chance to join Beau Esprit on six when he runs at Kranji in Singapore.
Beau Esprit (AUS) [2004]
Beau Esprit (AUS) [2004]
Bel Esprit (AUS) - Centennial (NZ)
Sold $80000, Magic Millions, NSW at Magic Millions National Weanling Sale 2005 by Cressfield Stud, Scone NSW
Sold $120000, Adrian Nicoll - Bba Ireland, IRELAND at Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale 2006 by Newhaven Park Stud, Boorowa NSW
Siblings
KINKA RHODE (AUS) [2003] - ENCOSTA DE LAGO (AUS)4w-7p-35s $95,400Race: 1000-2400m Won: 1220-2400m Wet: 0w-2p-5sLR 0w-0p-2s
KINKA RHODE (AUS) [2003] - ENCOSTA DE LAGO (AUS)4w-7p-35s $95,400Race: 1000-2400m Won: 1220-2400m Wet: 0w-2p-5sLR 0w-0p-2s
PINK CHAMPAGNE (AUS) [2005] - CARNEGIE (IRE)0w-0p-1sRace: 1100-1100m Won: 0-0m Wet: 0w-0p-0s
Tollesprit 19/9/09
Mark Pegus bounces back from horror fall to ride in carnival
ADRIAN DUNN, MELBOURNE
September 17, 2009 11:30pm
JUST as well Mark Pegus can't remember the afternoon of Saturday, July 18. Or more particularly, about 4pm.
Pegus was involved in one of the more frightening falls. It was like watching a car crash with Pegus in the driver's seat, blind sided by the locomotive that was about to clean him up.
King Of Ashford, the horse he was partnering, suffered a fatal heart attack 400m into the race. In the sad, closing seconds of its life, the horse veered sideways before Pegus was hurtled head first into the turf.
Although he suffered a cracked right shoulder and a broken left wrist, Pegus considers himself lucky. So, too, stewards who recoiled in horror when replays of the fall were replayed in the steward's room on Wednesday.
"He was lucky he didn't break every bone in his body," cringed steward Sally Miller.
Fortunately, King Of Ashford was at the rear of the field and just as fortunately he careered on an outward line rather than towards the running rail.
It was a dreadful end to what was a spectacular season.
Pegus rode 91 winners, good enough for a top-10 finish in the state.
Pegus, who returns tomorrow to Caulfield for the first time, has no recall of the fall.
"I was conscious, but I can't remember anything until 7pm that night," Pegus said.
"I looked down and I had plaster on my wrist. I had no idea what was going on."
He's hoping that when he leaves that track it's under his own volition and his memories are more vivid and spectacular for far different reasons.
With a sliver of luck the 31-year-old could register one of his finest days. He rides Gold Salute in the Group 1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes and rides the Shane Fliendner-trained Tollesprit in the colts and gelding Guineas Prelude.
"Both are genuine chances," enthused Pegus.
"Gold Salute has drawn a perfect gate, should sit right behind the speed and he should improve on his first-up run, which was terrific."I just think people don't realise just how good this horse is. Look at his win in the Winter Championship. He came from near last, was trapped deep and sustained a 400m sprint to win."
While Gold Salute appears well placed, Pegus is very bullyish about Tollesprit despite bumping into glamour Sydney youngsters Manhattan Rain and Trusting.
Tollesprit comes off a luckless sixth in the Danehill Stakes. Pegus is adamant that if this son of Bel Esprit had clear running he would have tested Black Caviar.
Fliendner has applied blinkers for the first time, an addition that Pegus believes will definitely assist.
"He galloped in blinkers the other morning and it improved him a fair bit," Pegus said.
"He's as good a horse as I've ridden, I wouldn't be surprised if he made a Cox Plate horse next year."
Now, that's something that will invoke pleasant memories.
ADRIAN DUNN, MELBOURNE
September 17, 2009 11:30pm
JUST as well Mark Pegus can't remember the afternoon of Saturday, July 18. Or more particularly, about 4pm.
Pegus was involved in one of the more frightening falls. It was like watching a car crash with Pegus in the driver's seat, blind sided by the locomotive that was about to clean him up.
King Of Ashford, the horse he was partnering, suffered a fatal heart attack 400m into the race. In the sad, closing seconds of its life, the horse veered sideways before Pegus was hurtled head first into the turf.
Although he suffered a cracked right shoulder and a broken left wrist, Pegus considers himself lucky. So, too, stewards who recoiled in horror when replays of the fall were replayed in the steward's room on Wednesday.
"He was lucky he didn't break every bone in his body," cringed steward Sally Miller.
Fortunately, King Of Ashford was at the rear of the field and just as fortunately he careered on an outward line rather than towards the running rail.
It was a dreadful end to what was a spectacular season.
Pegus rode 91 winners, good enough for a top-10 finish in the state.
Pegus, who returns tomorrow to Caulfield for the first time, has no recall of the fall.
"I was conscious, but I can't remember anything until 7pm that night," Pegus said.
"I looked down and I had plaster on my wrist. I had no idea what was going on."
He's hoping that when he leaves that track it's under his own volition and his memories are more vivid and spectacular for far different reasons.
With a sliver of luck the 31-year-old could register one of his finest days. He rides Gold Salute in the Group 1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes and rides the Shane Fliendner-trained Tollesprit in the colts and gelding Guineas Prelude.
"Both are genuine chances," enthused Pegus.
"Gold Salute has drawn a perfect gate, should sit right behind the speed and he should improve on his first-up run, which was terrific."I just think people don't realise just how good this horse is. Look at his win in the Winter Championship. He came from near last, was trapped deep and sustained a 400m sprint to win."
While Gold Salute appears well placed, Pegus is very bullyish about Tollesprit despite bumping into glamour Sydney youngsters Manhattan Rain and Trusting.
Tollesprit comes off a luckless sixth in the Danehill Stakes. Pegus is adamant that if this son of Bel Esprit had clear running he would have tested Black Caviar.
Fliendner has applied blinkers for the first time, an addition that Pegus believes will definitely assist.
"He galloped in blinkers the other morning and it improved him a fair bit," Pegus said.
"He's as good a horse as I've ridden, I wouldn't be surprised if he made a Cox Plate horse next year."
Now, that's something that will invoke pleasant memories.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Bel Esprit x Mrs Bradbury 17/9/09
Filly (click photo to enlarge)
Born 17/08/2009
Born 17/08/2009Bay Filly
Bel Esprit x Mrs Bradbury
Owner
Tucketts Road Holdings - Kurt Stern
born at Eliza Park
Statistics 17/9/09
They Just Keep Winning
Season
2009-2010
-----------sts--Win-Pl-------% win
1st crop---33---3---8---11---9.09
2nd crop--71---18--16--34---25.35
3rd crop---31---6---8---14---19.35
Total-----135---27--32--59---20.00
I know it is only early in the season, but Bel Esprit is off to an amazing start, the second crop who are now four year olds are bolting
Overall the stats are
Total--1443--231--335------16.01
There's no stallion in Australia that can beat those % stats.
Season
2009-2010
-----------sts--Win-Pl-------% win
1st crop---33---3---8---11---9.09
2nd crop--71---18--16--34---25.35
3rd crop---31---6---8---14---19.35
Total-----135---27--32--59---20.00
I know it is only early in the season, but Bel Esprit is off to an amazing start, the second crop who are now four year olds are bolting
Overall the stats are
Total--1443--231--335------16.01
There's no stallion in Australia that can beat those % stats.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Striding Success 16/9/09
Striding to Another Success
Striding Success followed up his last start win over 1050m at Balaclava with an
other win, this time at Morphettville Parks over 1000m with Wayne Kerford aboard again
Starting second favourite at $4.20, this Bel Esprit carrying 58 kilos went to the front from barrier thirteen and like Waltzes yesterday, put pressure on the following horses on the turn and raced away for a good win
Congratulations to the trainer Trevor Dansie who owns the horse with R N Liddy, B F Morris, Mrs K G Morris, N A Storr , more good times are in store.
Striding Success is out of a Snippets mare La Bella Zoccola, the fifteenth race won by four mares out of Snippets: Bit of Bliss (3 Vivacious Spirit), French Snip (7 Snip Esprit & Babieca Noire), Scandinavia (3 Ibsen) and a Bella Zoccola (2 Striding Success)
Striding Success (AUS) [2006] Trevor Dansie
Bel Esprit (AUS) - La Bella Zoccola (AUS)
Last Run: BKVA 2/09/2009 Atlas Party Hire Mdn Plate
Sold $27000 at Magic Millions 2008 Adelaide Yearling Sale & Races Sessions 1 & 2 by Eliza Park, Kerrie Vic
Siblings not found
Striding Success followed up his last start win over 1050m at Balaclava with an
other win, this time at Morphettville Parks over 1000m with Wayne Kerford aboard againStarting second favourite at $4.20, this Bel Esprit carrying 58 kilos went to the front from barrier thirteen and like Waltzes yesterday, put pressure on the following horses on the turn and raced away for a good win
Congratulations to the trainer Trevor Dansie who owns the horse with R N Liddy, B F Morris, Mrs K G Morris, N A Storr , more good times are in store.
Striding Success is out of a Snippets mare La Bella Zoccola, the fifteenth race won by four mares out of Snippets: Bit of Bliss (3 Vivacious Spirit), French Snip (7 Snip Esprit & Babieca Noire), Scandinavia (3 Ibsen) and a Bella Zoccola (2 Striding Success)
Striding Success (AUS) [2006] Trevor Dansie
Bel Esprit (AUS) - La Bella Zoccola (AUS)
Last Run: BKVA 2/09/2009 Atlas Party Hire Mdn Plate
Sold $27000 at Magic Millions 2008 Adelaide Yearling Sale & Races Sessions 1 & 2 by Eliza Park, Kerrie Vic
Siblings not found
Bel Esprit 16/9/09
Bel Esprit Timeform Ratings
Australian Timeform Ratings 2001-2002 Racing Season
Two-Year-Old Timeform Handicaps
1 Bel Esprit 121
2 Choisir 120
3 Planchet 120
4 Victory Vein 120
5 Snowland 119
6 Half Hennessy 117
7 Calaway Gal 117
8 Pillaging 117
9 Innovation Girl 116
10 Lovely Jubly 116
Yell 116
Australian Timeform Ratings 2002-2003 Racing Season
Three-Year-Old Timeform Handicaps
1 Choisir 126
2 Bel Esprit 125
3 Yell 124
4 Helenus 123
5 Innovation Girl 122
6 Force Apollo 121
7 Private Steer 121
8 Snowland 121
9 Thorn Park 121
10 Clangalang 120
Australian Timeform Ratings 2001-2002 Racing Season
Two-Year-Old Timeform Handicaps
1 Bel Esprit 121
2 Choisir 120
3 Planchet 120
4 Victory Vein 120
5 Snowland 119
6 Half Hennessy 117
7 Calaway Gal 117
8 Pillaging 117
9 Innovation Girl 116
10 Lovely Jubly 116
Yell 116
Australian Timeform Ratings 2002-2003 Racing Season
Three-Year-Old Timeform Handicaps
1 Choisir 126
2 Bel Esprit 125
3 Yell 124
4 Helenus 123
5 Innovation Girl 122
6 Force Apollo 121
7 Private Steer 121
8 Snowland 121
9 Thorn Park 121
10 Clangalang 120
Black Caviar 16/9/09
Black Caviar Timeform Ratings
Two-Year-Old Timeform Handicaps
1 Phelan Ready 2c More Than Ready (USA)-Nancy Eleanor (AUS)(Blevic (AUS)) BRUCE & JASON MCLACHLAN $3,223,500 123
2 Real Saga 2C Tale Of The Cat (USA)-Windy Kate (AUS)(Air Express (IRE)) MICHAEL & WAYNE & JOHN HAWKES $742,000 123
3 Manhattan Rain 2C Encosta De Lago (AUS)-Shantha's Choice (AUS)(Canny Lad (AUS)) MS G WATERHOUSE $755,300 122
4 More Joyous 2F More Than Ready (USA)-Sunday Joy (AUS)(Sunday Silence (USA)) MS G WATERHOUSE $237,000 122
5 Onemorenomore 2C Red Ransom (USA)-Palia (AUS)(Last Tycoon (IRE)) JASON COYLE
$358,100 122
6 Reward For Effort 2C Exceed And Excel (AUS)-Miss Prospect (AUS)(Rory's Jester (AUS)) PETER MOODY $732,500 121
7 Black Caviar 2F Bel Esprit (AUS)-Helsinge (AUS)(Desert Sun (GB)) PETER MOODY $105,700 120+
8 Rostova 2F Testa Rossa (AUS)-Space Talk (AUS)(Anabaa (USA)) STEVE RICHARDS $447,500 120
Timeform Ratings - 3yo
1 Denman 3C Lonhro (AUS)-Peach (AUS)(Vain (AUS)) PETER SNOWDEN $731,200 122
2 Onemorenomore 3C Red Ransom (USA)-Palia (AUS)(Last Tycoon (IRE)) JASON COYLE $10,100 117
3 Phelan Ready 3g More Than Ready (USA)-Nancy Eleanor (AUS)(Blevic (AUS)) JASON MCLACHLAN $13,500 117
4 Delago Bolt 3C Delago Brom (AUS)-Bardego (AUS)(Barathea (IRE)) GARY PORTELLI $13,100 116
5 Trusting 3C Tale Of The Cat (USA)-Legible (NZ)(Zabeel (NZ)) JASON COYLE $290,000 116
6 Black Caviar 3F Bel Esprit (AUS)-Helsinge (AUS)(Desert Sun (GB)) PETER MOODY $210,000 115
Two-Year-Old Timeform Handicaps
1 Phelan Ready 2c More Than Ready (USA)-Nancy Eleanor (AUS)(Blevic (AUS)) BRUCE & JASON MCLACHLAN $3,223,500 123
2 Real Saga 2C Tale Of The Cat (USA)-Windy Kate (AUS)(Air Express (IRE)) MICHAEL & WAYNE & JOHN HAWKES $742,000 123
3 Manhattan Rain 2C Encosta De Lago (AUS)-Shantha's Choice (AUS)(Canny Lad (AUS)) MS G WATERHOUSE $755,300 122
4 More Joyous 2F More Than Ready (USA)-Sunday Joy (AUS)(Sunday Silence (USA)) MS G WATERHOUSE $237,000 122
5 Onemorenomore 2C Red Ransom (USA)-Palia (AUS)(Last Tycoon (IRE)) JASON COYLE
$358,100 122
6 Reward For Effort 2C Exceed And Excel (AUS)-Miss Prospect (AUS)(Rory's Jester (AUS)) PETER MOODY $732,500 121
7 Black Caviar 2F Bel Esprit (AUS)-Helsinge (AUS)(Desert Sun (GB)) PETER MOODY $105,700 120+
8 Rostova 2F Testa Rossa (AUS)-Space Talk (AUS)(Anabaa (USA)) STEVE RICHARDS $447,500 120
Timeform Ratings - 3yo
1 Denman 3C Lonhro (AUS)-Peach (AUS)(Vain (AUS)) PETER SNOWDEN $731,200 122
2 Onemorenomore 3C Red Ransom (USA)-Palia (AUS)(Last Tycoon (IRE)) JASON COYLE $10,100 117
3 Phelan Ready 3g More Than Ready (USA)-Nancy Eleanor (AUS)(Blevic (AUS)) JASON MCLACHLAN $13,500 117
4 Delago Bolt 3C Delago Brom (AUS)-Bardego (AUS)(Barathea (IRE)) GARY PORTELLI $13,100 116
5 Trusting 3C Tale Of The Cat (USA)-Legible (NZ)(Zabeel (NZ)) JASON COYLE $290,000 116
6 Black Caviar 3F Bel Esprit (AUS)-Helsinge (AUS)(Desert Sun (GB)) PETER MOODY $210,000 115
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Waltzes 15/9/09
A Bel Waltzes at the 'Bool
Waltzes put a great effort to win the C J Andrew Plumbing Handicap (62) over 1100m at Warrnambool by three quarters of a length in a time of 1:07:39 carrying 59 kilo with Brady Cross aboard.
From barrier ten and after an very ordinary jump out, this Jarrod Mc Lean trained horse did a bit of work to get to the lead putting the other horses off the bit on the turn where he went to a two length lead and was good enough to hang on despite the weight. The only Bel Esprit to carry more weight was Royal Esprit when he won a Class 3 at Kembla Grange in May 2008 with 59.5 kilos.
This was the third start for the four year old gelding, having a second place first up, followed by a win at Donald last start. He has Snippets as a grand dam sire and Snippets mares have won fourteen races for the progeny. Another Slade Bloodstock purchase who owns him along L J Ross, D L Barker, L D Kennedy, C Lumely, S J Dawson & S V I Traplin
click line below to watch race
http://horseracing.bigpond.com/asx/windowsmedia.aspx?TagID=AR383908853858181185
Waltzes (AUS) [2005] Jarrod Mclean
Bel Esprit (AUS) - Dance The Music (AUS)
Sold $80000, Slade Bloodstock, VIC at William Inglis and Son Ltd. 2007 Premier Yearling by Eliza Park, Kerrie Vic
Sibling
STORMY HUNTER (AUS) [2003] - GENUINE (JPN)3w-4p-22s $20,800Race: 1009-2100m Won: 1516-1980m Wet: 0w-0p-2s
Waltzes put a great effort to win the C J Andrew Plumbing Handicap (62) over 1100m at Warrnambool by three quarters of a length in a time of 1:07:39 carrying 59 kilo with Brady Cross aboard.
From barrier ten and after an very ordinary jump out, this Jarrod Mc Lean trained horse did a bit of work to get to the lead putting the other horses off the bit on the turn where he went to a two length lead and was good enough to hang on despite the weight. The only Bel Esprit to carry more weight was Royal Esprit when he won a Class 3 at Kembla Grange in May 2008 with 59.5 kilos.
This was the third start for the four year old gelding, having a second place first up, followed by a win at Donald last start. He has Snippets as a grand dam sire and Snippets mares have won fourteen races for the progeny. Another Slade Bloodstock purchase who owns him along L J Ross, D L Barker, L D Kennedy, C Lumely, S J Dawson & S V I Traplin
click line below to watch race
http://horseracing.bigpond.com/asx/windowsmedia.aspx?TagID=AR383908853858181185
Waltzes (AUS) [2005] Jarrod Mclean
Bel Esprit (AUS) - Dance The Music (AUS)
Sold $80000, Slade Bloodstock, VIC at William Inglis and Son Ltd. 2007 Premier Yearling by Eliza Park, Kerrie Vic
Sibling
STORMY HUNTER (AUS) [2003] - GENUINE (JPN)3w-4p-22s $20,800Race: 1009-2100m Won: 1516-1980m Wet: 0w-0p-2s
Black Caviar 15/9/09
Moody loses Guineas battle with Black Caviar
Brad Waters
Monday, 14 September 2009
Caulfield trainer Peter Moody will play it safe with star filly Black Caviar, electing to miss October’s Group I Thousand Guineas (1600m) to target the Flemington carnival.
Black Caviar tore chest muscles when beginning awkwardly in her Danehill Stakes win, causing the filly to miss a week’s work to allow Moody to assess the three-year-old’s injury.
“She’s almost over the problem but the week’s work missed means we won’t have enough time to get her ready for the Thousand Guineas,” Moody said.
“We’ve decided to take it slowly with her. She got back on the water walker on Monday morning and we’ll be aiming to get her up and running for the Coolmore Stakes.
The Group I Coolmore Stakes will be run on Victoria Derby day, October 31.
Caulfield trainer Peter Moody will play it safe with star filly Black Caviar, electing to miss October’s Group I Thousand Guineas (1600m) to target the Flemington carnival.
Black Caviar tore chest muscles when beginning awkwardly in her Danehill Stakes win, causing the filly to miss a week’s work to allow Moody to assess the three-year-old’s injury.
“She’s almost over the problem but the week’s work missed means we won’t have enough time to get her ready for the Thousand Guineas,” Moody said.
“We’ve decided to take it slowly with her. She got back on the water walker on Monday morning and we’ll be aiming to get her up and running for the Coolmore Stakes.
The Group I Coolmore Stakes will be run on Victoria Derby day, October 31.
Belle Tivo 15/9/09
Once a Year Race Meetings
Following the fortunes of Bel Esprit takes a person to different places. On Saturdays there are race meetings all over the Country, Laura’s Spirit (story on 10/05/09) has won three races, all in outback towns way west of Brisbane, Nanango, Talwood and Augathella and Belle Tivo was the first winner of this current season winning on the 1st August at Roxby Downs where they race once a year.
This was the mare’s first start and since then she has had another five starts. The second start was at Port Augusta and followed that up at Strathalbyn all in the month of August.
This month she has raced on both days at Birdsville where they have their Cup meeting on consecutive days on the first week of September. Last Saturday, Belle Tivo raced at Bedourie where the local racetrack comes alive three times a year: a gymkhana (last weekend in June) a camel race (2nd weekend in July) and the Bedourie races meeting (2nd weekend in September) and has had no success since her first start.
It’s a long way from Flemington and Caulfield but must be just as enjoyable for trainer Kym Healey
Birdsville races brings back memories of a time in the eighties when a bloke came to me and said that he wanted to buy a truck load of ice. He turned up with a big truck and 13000 bags were loaded on, then he showed me his sawn off shotgun which he had as protection and said he was going up the country (no name) travelling on back roads as he was overloaded to buggery.
I waved him goodbye, never thinking I would see him again and thankful that I could sell forty tonne of ice on a cold wintery Melbourne day.
However, he turned up about six weeks later returning the pallets and telling me he went to the Birdsville races and had a bit of bad luck.
The weather the day of the races was only 39c, cooler than the 45c he was hoping for, and he only sold 1000 bags.
Another way to lose on the racecourse.
Following the fortunes of Bel Esprit takes a person to different places. On Saturdays there are race meetings all over the Country, Laura’s Spirit (story on 10/05/09) has won three races, all in outback towns way west of Brisbane, Nanango, Talwood and Augathella and Belle Tivo was the first winner of this current season winning on the 1st August at Roxby Downs where they race once a year.
This was the mare’s first start and since then she has had another five starts. The second start was at Port Augusta and followed that up at Strathalbyn all in the month of August.
This month she has raced on both days at Birdsville where they have their Cup meeting on consecutive days on the first week of September. Last Saturday, Belle Tivo raced at Bedourie where the local racetrack comes alive three times a year: a gymkhana (last weekend in June) a camel race (2nd weekend in July) and the Bedourie races meeting (2nd weekend in September) and has had no success since her first start.
It’s a long way from Flemington and Caulfield but must be just as enjoyable for trainer Kym Healey
Birdsville races brings back memories of a time in the eighties when a bloke came to me and said that he wanted to buy a truck load of ice. He turned up with a big truck and 13000 bags were loaded on, then he showed me his sawn off shotgun which he had as protection and said he was going up the country (no name) travelling on back roads as he was overloaded to buggery.
I waved him goodbye, never thinking I would see him again and thankful that I could sell forty tonne of ice on a cold wintery Melbourne day.
However, he turned up about six weeks later returning the pallets and telling me he went to the Birdsville races and had a bit of bad luck.
The weather the day of the races was only 39c, cooler than the 45c he was hoping for, and he only sold 1000 bags.
Another way to lose on the racecourse.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Undercurrent 13/9/09
The Rivers Secret is the Undercurrent
Undercurrent was bred by Contract Racing and managers David and Jenny Moodie have been great supporters of Bel Esprit, sending mares every year since he has been at stud. Today at Bendigo this very well bred colt jumped well from barrier three for jockey Danny Nikolic, went to the lead on the rails and raced away to win by three lengths in a very fast time of 56.94 (record 56.48) for the 1000m.
Trained by Danny O’Brien who bought him for $110,000 at the Magic Millions Yearling sales in Queensland and owned by Jellis Craig Racing Syndicate, M Arfi, R Clough, Live In Hope Syndicate, D Merrick, M J Szelag, P Reynolds & Yarraman Park Stud Syndicate, this fella out of a Flying Spur mare Rivers Secret and is another Bel Esprit with a great future.
Trained by Danny O’Brien who bought him for $110,000 at the Magic Millions Yearling sales in Queensland and owned by Jellis Craig Racing Syndicate, M Arfi, R Clough, Live In Hope Syndicate, D Merrick, M J Szelag, P Reynolds & Yarraman Park Stud Syndicate, this fella out of a Flying Spur mare Rivers Secret and is another Bel Esprit with a great future.
click line below to watch race
http://horseracing.bigpond.com/asx/windowsmedia.aspx?TagID=AR042211866932174552
Undercurrent (AUS) [2006] Danny O'Brien
http://horseracing.bigpond.com/asx/windowsmedia.aspx?TagID=AR042211866932174552
Undercurrent (AUS) [2006] Danny O'Brien
Bel Esprit (AUS) - Rivers Secret (AUS)
Sibling
STASH OF GOLD (AUS) [2002] - MADE OF GOLD (USA)8w-12p-43s $75,500Race: 1000-2400m Won: 1000-2200m Wet: 0w-2p-2s
STASH OF GOLD (AUS) [2002] - MADE OF GOLD (USA)8w-12p-43s $75,500Race: 1000-2400m Won: 1000-2200m Wet: 0w-2p-2s
Foals 2009
2009 Foals
(click photos to enlarge)
Photo taken when six days old
born at Eliza Park
------------------------------------------------------------------
Born 4/09/2009 at 5:05 PM
Bay Colt
Bel Esprit x Hanging Cloud
Owner Tricia Cox
Photo taken when nine days old
born at Eliza Park
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Born 23/08/2009 at 4:30 PM
Filly
Bel Esprit X Ruby Trois
Owners: Robbie Griffiths, Peter and Brian Donohoe, Kevin Sheedy
at Ballymeath Farm, Swanpool Victoria
Photo 1 taken 18 hours after birth, photo 2 taken when 19 days old
Friday, September 11, 2009
Rebel Truce 11/9/09
No Truce from this Rebel.
The most impressive winner of the day at Geelong was Rebel Truce who in the words of the race caller, was twelve lengths from the leader on the turn and then went to the outside of the field and took off only to want to hang in up the straight. However this entire got it right and went away to win by one and a half lengths.
Rebel Truce is out of the Encosta de Lago mare Largo (she had 45 starts for 6 wins and 14 placings winning $235300) and she went back to Bel Esprit the following year along with her full sisters Gazania and Coversinga and the Gazania was the best Bel Esprit in the Inglis Premier Yearling Sales in Melbourne last March selling for $62,500.
The most impressive winner of the day at Geelong was Rebel Truce who in the words of the race caller, was twelve lengths from the leader on the turn and then went to the outside of the field and took off only to want to hang in up the straight. However this entire got it right and went away to win by one and a half lengths.Rebel Truce had finished second at his last two starts, once beaten in a protest, so he deserved today's win.
Congratulations to the owner, the ever popular Jimmy Matthews who with Mrs L Backwell bred this colt. Jimmy was away in Queensland and could only watch the win at the local TAB.
Rebel Truce is out of the Encosta de Lago mare Largo (she had 45 starts for 6 wins and 14 placings winning $235300) and she went back to Bel Esprit the following year along with her full sisters Gazania and Coversinga and the Gazania was the best Bel Esprit in the Inglis Premier Yearling Sales in Melbourne last March selling for $62,500.Paddy Payne trained the winner with Ben Melham the jockey and pictured is Rhona Mangin who was the horse's strapper for the day and if she clicks the photo, it will enlarge to show her lovely smile
Click line below to watch race
Patrick Payne lands winner with Rebel Truce at Geelong
Denis Craven
September 12th, 2009
FORMER pin-up jockey Patrick Payne is showing his versatility as a trainer.
Payne unearthed a promising galloper in Rebel Truce ($4.20) to win the Schweppes Maiden (1340m) in eye-catching style at Geelong yesterday.
The three-year-old colt is among 30 horses Payne trains at Rockbank.
Rebel Truce confirmed Payne's reputation as an astute judge when the galloper was backed from $8 into $3.90 late on the TAB.
The win also provided jockey Ben Melham with the first leg of a winning double, following up on Brittle Express ($5.50) two races later.
Melham followed Payne's instructions to ride Rebel Truce patiently and had Rebel Truce trailing the field until the home turn.
"He's a smart horse," Melham said. "When he was passing the leaders he felt as though he was pulling up. He had more up his sleeve."
Payne said Rebel Truce, a colt by Bel Esprit from former talented mare Largo, was immature and would be a better horse next autumn.
"He's a green horse. Once he hit the front he wanted to shy at the grandstand and run in," Payne said.
Payne believes Rebel Truce will be best suited at 1200m to 1600m.
"His mother Largo used to race best when when ridden quietly and coming with the one run," Payne said.
"I think we will go quietly with him, perhaps race in the off-season over summer. Otherwise, I'm happy to wait till the autumn.
"He's a little bit soft-boned and the extra time won't do him any harm."
As a jockey, Payne won 18 Group 1 races, including the 2002 Cox Plate on Northerly. He also rode a winner over jumps before taking up training last year.
Denis Craven
September 12th, 2009
FORMER pin-up jockey Patrick Payne is showing his versatility as a trainer.
Payne unearthed a promising galloper in Rebel Truce ($4.20) to win the Schweppes Maiden (1340m) in eye-catching style at Geelong yesterday.
The three-year-old colt is among 30 horses Payne trains at Rockbank.
Rebel Truce confirmed Payne's reputation as an astute judge when the galloper was backed from $8 into $3.90 late on the TAB.
The win also provided jockey Ben Melham with the first leg of a winning double, following up on Brittle Express ($5.50) two races later.
Melham followed Payne's instructions to ride Rebel Truce patiently and had Rebel Truce trailing the field until the home turn.
"He's a smart horse," Melham said. "When he was passing the leaders he felt as though he was pulling up. He had more up his sleeve."
Payne said Rebel Truce, a colt by Bel Esprit from former talented mare Largo, was immature and would be a better horse next autumn.
"He's a green horse. Once he hit the front he wanted to shy at the grandstand and run in," Payne said.
Payne believes Rebel Truce will be best suited at 1200m to 1600m.
"His mother Largo used to race best when when ridden quietly and coming with the one run," Payne said.
"I think we will go quietly with him, perhaps race in the off-season over summer. Otherwise, I'm happy to wait till the autumn.
"He's a little bit soft-boned and the extra time won't do him any harm."
As a jockey, Payne won 18 Group 1 races, including the 2002 Cox Plate on Northerly. He also rode a winner over jumps before taking up training last year.
Spirited Halo 11/9/09
A Day At Geelong Races
It was a great day in Melbourne today, twenty two degrees and Geelong only an hour away with five Bel Esprits running, where else would you want to be?. Suitably Connected was in the first race where he raced on the pace, fading slightly but not disgraced because the winner Lakedro is very good and
will properly win in the City at her next start.
The next runner was to be Bel’s Pride trained by Niall Phillips (pictured with George Draper), only trouble was the jockey Dwayne Dunn who got a pick up ride, injured his leg against the fence just a the horses were about to enter the stalls. Owner George Draper was disappointed because she had been trialling well. He also has another Bel Esprit filly out of a Luskin Star mare, Julianne .
Rebel Truce won the fourth race (see next story) then Belahina ran in the sixth race, the Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock 0-62 Handicap over 1140m, she took an opening just after entering the straight, got to the front only to be run down by the eventual winner Brittle Express. A bit hard to find any of the owners, however the trainer John Moloney is pictured right giving instructing to jockey Luke Nolan
It was a great day in Melbourne today, twenty two degrees and Geelong only an hour away with five Bel Esprits running, where else would you want to be?. Suitably Connected was in the first race where he raced on the pace, fading slightly but not disgraced because the winner Lakedro is very good and
will properly win in the City at her next start.The next runner was to be Bel’s Pride trained by Niall Phillips (pictured with George Draper), only trouble was the jockey Dwayne Dunn who got a pick up ride, injured his leg against the fence just a the horses were about to enter the stalls. Owner George Draper was disappointed because she had been trialling well. He also has another Bel Esprit filly out of a Luskin Star mare, Julianne .
Rebel Truce won the fourth race (see next story) then Belahina ran in the sixth race, the Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock 0-62 Handicap over 1140m, she took an opening just after entering the straight, got to the front only to be run down by the eventual winner Brittle Express. A bit hard to find any of the owners, however the trainer John Moloney is pictured right giving instructing to jockey Luke Nolan
The last starter was a horse that my Son and I
had raced previously, the very honest Spirited Halo. He now has other owners including Brad Mc Pherson of Peninsula Bloodstock and Brent McGrath (both pictured right with Brad above). The horse is now trained by John White who won the previous race with the sixteen to one pop Hexy Legs. John ,was telling me that the horse is enjoying the open spaces at his stables not wanting to go into his box.
Spirited Halo ran a game race finishing third, well ridden by Matthew Allen and the only thing that beat him was his weight, fifty nine kilos.
Mooring suffered the same fate carrying the same weight later in the night in Singapore finishing fourth.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Mooring, Heedmaster(Ejercito) 10/9/09
Bels in Singapore
Bel Esprit has now got ten horses registered to in Singapore with four being winners
Perfect Sky x Time Is Hope seventeen starts five wins four placings (S$229,117.50)
Mooring x Drop Anchor eight starts four wins two placings ( S$258,570.00) trained by Michael Freedman
Aranda x Orchid Lady seven starts two wins three placings (S$84,296.25)
Bel’s Ringer x Let It Ring five starts one win one placing (S$43,841.25) trained by John Meagher
The other starter is the quirkly named Ee Ee Uo Uo, two starts one placing (S$15,356.25) while four haven’t started
Belwins x Beauty World
Dan Baron x Clever Jeel
Fast Break x Pride Of Nevis
Surgess x Harvest Bird
The tenth fellow is Heedmaster who raced in Australia as Ejercito and won three races from twelve starts with $33,159 prizemoney. He is entered to have his first race in Singapore on 11 Sep 09 KRANJI Race 05 OPEN BENCHMARK 83 - 1200M COURSE C (LC) PRIZE MONEY: S$95000.
Mooring is top weight in the same race, so this will be the first comparison between Mooring and Australian horseracing
Diplomatic Strike is over there but not registered
Bel Esprit has now got ten horses registered to in Singapore with four being winners
Perfect Sky x Time Is Hope seventeen starts five wins four placings (S$229,117.50)
Mooring x Drop Anchor eight starts four wins two placings ( S$258,570.00) trained by Michael Freedman
Aranda x Orchid Lady seven starts two wins three placings (S$84,296.25)
Bel’s Ringer x Let It Ring five starts one win one placing (S$43,841.25) trained by John Meagher
The other starter is the quirkly named Ee Ee Uo Uo, two starts one placing (S$15,356.25) while four haven’t started
Belwins x Beauty World
Dan Baron x Clever Jeel
Fast Break x Pride Of Nevis
Surgess x Harvest Bird
The tenth fellow is Heedmaster who raced in Australia as Ejercito and won three races from twelve starts with $33,159 prizemoney. He is entered to have his first race in Singapore on 11 Sep 09 KRANJI Race 05 OPEN BENCHMARK 83 - 1200M COURSE C (LC) PRIZE MONEY: S$95000.
Mooring is top weight in the same race, so this will be the first comparison between Mooring and Australian horseracing
Diplomatic Strike is over there but not registered
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Black Caviar 9/9/09
Top filly Black Caviar in doubt
Tim Habel
September 08, 2009 12:00am
BOOM filly Black Caviar has a torn chest muscle that threatens her spring campaign.
Trainer Peter Moody said yesterday the injury would require a minimum seven days' rest. A decision will then be made on Black Caviar's future.
He said the filly was in pain and her chest was swollen.
"She's done it before. She's very fit, so we will bite the bullet, rest and hope it heals," Moody said. "We will give her as long as it takes. If it doesn't heal quickly she'll be out for the spring."
Black Caviar injured herself when she jumped awkwardly at the start of Saturday's Group 2 Danehill Stakes (1200m) at Flemington.
Tim Habel
September 08, 2009 12:00am
BOOM filly Black Caviar has a torn chest muscle that threatens her spring campaign.
Trainer Peter Moody said yesterday the injury would require a minimum seven days' rest. A decision will then be made on Black Caviar's future.
He said the filly was in pain and her chest was swollen.
"She's done it before. She's very fit, so we will bite the bullet, rest and hope it heals," Moody said. "We will give her as long as it takes. If it doesn't heal quickly she'll be out for the spring."
Black Caviar injured herself when she jumped awkwardly at the start of Saturday's Group 2 Danehill Stakes (1200m) at Flemington.
This article came from the Herald-Sun, the Internet sites write mainly about their NSW sponsors.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Owners Club Leaderboard 8/9/09
Bel Esprit Owners Club Leaderboard
I have been able to track a few more names to add to this board, so if anybody thinks that these figures and horses names are wrong, they can email me at donohoe@net2000.com.au
At the races at Flemington last Saturday, a couple of leaders on this board were seen in deep conversation probably mourning about their football team Essendon that crashed out of the finals the night before, namely Colin Madden and Michael Duffy. It would have been a different story if the bloke that is running second on this list, had still been coaching.
Simon Hearnden-Hunter-----10
Snip Esprit6, Babieca Noire1, Bel Estar3
Kevin Sheedy-----------------9
Diplomatic Strike2, Queen Rene1, Van Der Star1, Bel Shoes4, The Phoenician1
Peter & Brian Donohoe--------8
Diplomatic Strike2, Beltrios3, Spirited Halo3
Colin Madden-----------------8
Bel Mer4, Black Caviar4
Neil Werrett------------------8
Bel Mer4, Black Caviar4
Corinna Slade-----------------7
Belcentra3, Tassolegy1, Seasonality2, Mooring1
Michael Duffy-----------------7
Diplomatic Strike2, Beau Esprit5
Alastair & Patricia McFarlane-6
Esprit de Roses5, Esprit de Bullet1
Peter Harrington-------------6
Bel Shoes4, Tollesprit2
David & Jenny Moody--------6
Spirited Halo3, Ibsen3
Shiranee Griffiths ------------4
Beltrois3, Anquitel1.
Gwenda Johnstone-----------4
Lotsa Grunt3, New Avenue1
I have been able to track a few more names to add to this board, so if anybody thinks that these figures and horses names are wrong, they can email me at donohoe@net2000.com.au
At the races at Flemington last Saturday, a couple of leaders on this board were seen in deep conversation probably mourning about their football team Essendon that crashed out of the finals the night before, namely Colin Madden and Michael Duffy. It would have been a different story if the bloke that is running second on this list, had still been coaching.
Simon Hearnden-Hunter-----10
Snip Esprit6, Babieca Noire1, Bel Estar3
Kevin Sheedy-----------------9
Diplomatic Strike2, Queen Rene1, Van Der Star1, Bel Shoes4, The Phoenician1
Peter & Brian Donohoe--------8
Diplomatic Strike2, Beltrios3, Spirited Halo3
Colin Madden-----------------8
Bel Mer4, Black Caviar4
Neil Werrett------------------8
Bel Mer4, Black Caviar4
Corinna Slade-----------------7
Belcentra3, Tassolegy1, Seasonality2, Mooring1
Michael Duffy-----------------7
Diplomatic Strike2, Beau Esprit5
Alastair & Patricia McFarlane-6
Esprit de Roses5, Esprit de Bullet1
Peter Harrington-------------6
Bel Shoes4, Tollesprit2
David & Jenny Moody--------6
Spirited Halo3, Ibsen3
Shiranee Griffiths ------------4
Beltrois3, Anquitel1.
Gwenda Johnstone-----------4
Lotsa Grunt3, New Avenue1
Monday, September 7, 2009
Sizzling Spring 7/9/09
A Sizzling Bel
Sizzling Spring his first start as a four year old and in his last start after four ru
ns at Hawksbury on 23rd October 2008, he finished nine and a half lengths behind Broadway Queen over 1800m. He was then trained by Brian Firth
Today in the Riverina Crane Services Mdn (1200m) at Wagga Wagga, he was trained by Ken Parsons from Cowra and ridden by Michael Travers who sat him outside odds on favourite Onalist till half way up the straight where he surged away to beat the fast finishing Birubi by a long neck.
ns at Hawksbury on 23rd October 2008, he finished nine and a half lengths behind Broadway Queen over 1800m. He was then trained by Brian FirthToday in the Riverina Crane Services Mdn (1200m) at Wagga Wagga, he was trained by Ken Parsons from Cowra and ridden by Michael Travers who sat him outside odds on favourite Onalist till half way up the straight where he surged away to beat the fast finishing Birubi by a long neck.
There was confidence on the Tote about his chances today, maybe because he won a trial at Parkes over 800m by two lengths in a time of 47.7s
Sizzling Spring (AUS) [2004]
Bel Esprit (AUS) - True Spirit (AUS)
Psd $45,000 Res $50,000, at Magic Millions Adelaide Yearling Sale 2006 by Ducatoon Park, Kadina SA
Sold $35000, J Gask, SA at Magic Millions National Yearling Sale 2006 by Widden Stud, Widden Valley NSW
Siblings
EILATAN (AUS) [1995] - BLUEBIRD (USA)9w-13p-60s $165,500Race: 1000-3300m Won: 1000-2900m Wet: 6w-4p-17sG2 0w-0p-1s, LR 0w-0p-1s
EILATAN (AUS) [1995] - BLUEBIRD (USA)9w-13p-60s $165,500Race: 1000-3300m Won: 1000-2900m Wet: 6w-4p-17sG2 0w-0p-1s, LR 0w-0p-1s
PRECISIONIST (AUS) [2001] - BLEVIC (AUS)1w-5p-26s $8,600Race: 1200-2200m Won: 1600-1600m Wet: 0w-1p-2s
Black Caviar 7/9/09
Top filly unlikely for 1000 Guineas
Brad Waters
Monday, 7 September 2009
The brilliant Melbourne filly Black Caviar's spring campaign has been thrown into chaos after she injured herself in Saturday's Group II Danehill Stakes at Flemington.
Black Caviar's trainer Peter Moody, pictured, said it was now unlikely Black Caviar would run in the Group I Thousand Guineas in October even if she recovers quickly from her injury.
"The Guineas would probably be too hard time-wise even if she's right to resume work in a week," Moody said. "As of now we don't have much of a plan with her until we look at her again."
Moody sensed the unbeaten filly had sustained an injury when she began awkwardly in Saturday's race before picking herself up to beat the colts down the Flemington straight.
Moody said the daughter of Bel Esprit was x-rayed on Sunday before the stable discovered Black Caviar had torn a chest muscle when inspecting the filly on Monday morning, Moody likening the problem to a torn pectoral muscle in a human.
"She was noticeably sore on Monday morning," Moody said. "She's got a muscle tear across the chest but she x-rayed fine.
"We'll give her a week off before we reassess things after we have another look. If she doesn't come up we won't hesitate to send her to the paddock."
Black Caviar's future in balance
Matt Stewart
September 07, 2009 12:00am
BLACK Caviar's immediate future will be determined in the next 48 hours, with trainer Peter Moody bracing himself and calling in the vets.
Moody fears Black Caviar may have torn a back or neck muscle in her clumsy exit from the gates in Saturday's Danehill Stakes at Flemington.
She stretched her unbeaten record to four in a remarkably tough win in the 1200m sprint after almost going down on her nose at the start.
It was her fourth poor get-away in an unbeaten career.
While the filly appeared to recover without noticeable soreness, she was given anti-inflammatory drugs yesterday and will be inspected today by the stable vet and chiropractor.
"It will be interesting to see how she trots up tomorrow and Tuesday," Moody said yesterday.
"I won't be surprised at all if she pulls up with some sort of strain.
"She's done it before. If that's so, there's no point wondering what races to set her for, because with a filly as valuable as her, there might not be any point going on (this spring) if there's a problem."
If Black Caviar is given the all-clear today, Moody said he had three options -- the Thousand Guineas Prelude (1400m) or the Rupert Clarke Stakes (1400m), both at Caulfield on September 19, or the Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley on September 25.
Moody said Black Caviar's trait of dwelling at the start - she actually pre-empted it in the Danehill - was a major concern.
"It will probably cost her a Group 1 one day," he said.
"You could imagine drawing gate one in a Manikato and botching the start against those experienced older horses who jump straight into the bridle."
He said there was little he could do behind the scenes to mend Black Caviar's barrier manners.
"You drive them mad putting them through the barriers 100 times," Moody said.
"It's a problem that will probably sort itself out with time, but it is a problem."
Brad Waters
Monday, 7 September 2009
The brilliant Melbourne filly Black Caviar's spring campaign has been thrown into chaos after she injured herself in Saturday's Group II Danehill Stakes at Flemington.
Black Caviar's trainer Peter Moody, pictured, said it was now unlikely Black Caviar would run in the Group I Thousand Guineas in October even if she recovers quickly from her injury.
"The Guineas would probably be too hard time-wise even if she's right to resume work in a week," Moody said. "As of now we don't have much of a plan with her until we look at her again."
Moody sensed the unbeaten filly had sustained an injury when she began awkwardly in Saturday's race before picking herself up to beat the colts down the Flemington straight.
Moody said the daughter of Bel Esprit was x-rayed on Sunday before the stable discovered Black Caviar had torn a chest muscle when inspecting the filly on Monday morning, Moody likening the problem to a torn pectoral muscle in a human.
"She was noticeably sore on Monday morning," Moody said. "She's got a muscle tear across the chest but she x-rayed fine.
"We'll give her a week off before we reassess things after we have another look. If she doesn't come up we won't hesitate to send her to the paddock."
Black Caviar's future in balance
Matt Stewart
September 07, 2009 12:00am
BLACK Caviar's immediate future will be determined in the next 48 hours, with trainer Peter Moody bracing himself and calling in the vets.
Moody fears Black Caviar may have torn a back or neck muscle in her clumsy exit from the gates in Saturday's Danehill Stakes at Flemington.
She stretched her unbeaten record to four in a remarkably tough win in the 1200m sprint after almost going down on her nose at the start.
It was her fourth poor get-away in an unbeaten career.
While the filly appeared to recover without noticeable soreness, she was given anti-inflammatory drugs yesterday and will be inspected today by the stable vet and chiropractor.
"It will be interesting to see how she trots up tomorrow and Tuesday," Moody said yesterday.
"I won't be surprised at all if she pulls up with some sort of strain.
"She's done it before. If that's so, there's no point wondering what races to set her for, because with a filly as valuable as her, there might not be any point going on (this spring) if there's a problem."
If Black Caviar is given the all-clear today, Moody said he had three options -- the Thousand Guineas Prelude (1400m) or the Rupert Clarke Stakes (1400m), both at Caulfield on September 19, or the Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley on September 25.
Moody said Black Caviar's trait of dwelling at the start - she actually pre-empted it in the Danehill - was a major concern.
"It will probably cost her a Group 1 one day," he said.
"You could imagine drawing gate one in a Manikato and botching the start against those experienced older horses who jump straight into the bridle."
He said there was little he could do behind the scenes to mend Black Caviar's barrier manners.
"You drive them mad putting them through the barriers 100 times," Moody said.
"It's a problem that will probably sort itself out with time, but it is a problem."
Black caviar 7/9/09
Tough win takes its toll on unbeaten Black Caviar
Patrick Bartley
Patrick Bartley
September 7, 2009
Black Caviar is unbeaten after four starts.Photo: Getty Images
TRAINER Peter Moody will monitor his unbeaten filly Black Caviar over the next 48 hours after she emerged jaded from Saturday's win in the group 2 Danehill Stakes at Flemington.
As a precaution, Moody has treated the three-year-old with an anti-inflammatory injection, which, he believes, will help her overcome her tough run against the colts and geldings in the Danehill.
"She had a tough run," Moody said. "She looked it this morning and I gave her the anti-inflammatory, which a lot of us use and is within the rules, to prevent a few aches and pains that she received after her run. I'll have her fully vet tested and get the chiropractor to run over her and I wouldn't be surprised if there is a pain in the back or the chest after her effort on Saturday."
He would only speculate on whether the filly would go to the Manikato Stakes or the Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes or run against her own age and sex at her next appearance.
"She's an extremely valuable filly and we will be just doing what's best by her," Moody said. "I've basically told the owners that we will wait and see what condition she is in over the next few days." Black Caviar again scrambled moments after the start of the Danehill. "There was that and the fact she had a tough run," Moody said. "There's not a lot I can do with her barrier manners but hope she just grows out of it. But one day, losing a length could be costly in a group 1 race, but I don't want to drive her mad by taking her back to the barriers for more practice. Basically, I think it will rectify itself in time."
Black Caviar's stablemate Wanted debuted brilliantly for his new stable, finishing
powerfully to be second behind Black Caviar.
"Basically in the last two weeks he started to work well and I think he was just gaining genuine fitness and his run on Saturday was terrific,' Moody said of Wanted. "We could probably ponder other options for him now."
The group 1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes (1400 metres) at Caulfield on September 19 and the Manikato Stakes (1200 metres) at Moonee Valley on September 25 are possible targets for the former Sydney three-year-old.
Strain on Peter Moody over Black Caviar's future
Matt Stewart
September 07, 2009 12:00am
BLACK Caviar's immediate future will be determined in the next 48 hours, with trainer Peter Moody bracing himself and calling in the vets.
Moody fears Black Caviar may have torn a back or neck muscle in her clumsy exit from the gates in Saturday's Danehill Stakes at Flemington.
She stretched her unbeaten record to four in a remarkably tough win in the 1200m sprint after almost going down on her nose at the start.
It was her fourth poor get-away in an unbeaten career.
While the filly appeared to recover without noticeable soreness, she was given anti-inflammatory drugs yesterday and will be inspected today by the stable vet and chiropractor.
"It will be interesting to see how she trots up tomorrow and Tuesday," Moody said yesterday.
"I won't be surprised at all if she pulls up with some sort of strain.
"She's done it before. If that's so, there's no point wondering what races to set her for, because with a filly as valuable as her, there might not be any point going on (this spring) if there's a problem."
If Black Caviar is given the all-clear today, Moody said he had three options -- the Thousand Guineas Prelude (1400m) or the Rupert Clarke Stakes (1400m), both at Caulfield on September 19, or the Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley on September 25.
Moody said Black Caviar's trait of dwelling at the start - she actually pre-empted it in the Danehill - was a major concern.
"It will probably cost her a Group 1 one day," he said.
"You could imagine drawing gate one in a Manikato and botching the start against those experienced older horses who jump straight into the bridle."
He said there was little he could do behind the scenes to mend Black Caviar's barrier manners.
"You drive them mad putting them through the barriers 100 times," Moody said.
"It's a problem that will probably sort itself out with time, but it is a problem."
Black Caviar is unbeaten after four starts.Photo: Getty Images
TRAINER Peter Moody will monitor his unbeaten filly Black Caviar over the next 48 hours after she emerged jaded from Saturday's win in the group 2 Danehill Stakes at Flemington.
As a precaution, Moody has treated the three-year-old with an anti-inflammatory injection, which, he believes, will help her overcome her tough run against the colts and geldings in the Danehill.
"She had a tough run," Moody said. "She looked it this morning and I gave her the anti-inflammatory, which a lot of us use and is within the rules, to prevent a few aches and pains that she received after her run. I'll have her fully vet tested and get the chiropractor to run over her and I wouldn't be surprised if there is a pain in the back or the chest after her effort on Saturday."
He would only speculate on whether the filly would go to the Manikato Stakes or the Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes or run against her own age and sex at her next appearance.
"She's an extremely valuable filly and we will be just doing what's best by her," Moody said. "I've basically told the owners that we will wait and see what condition she is in over the next few days." Black Caviar again scrambled moments after the start of the Danehill. "There was that and the fact she had a tough run," Moody said. "There's not a lot I can do with her barrier manners but hope she just grows out of it. But one day, losing a length could be costly in a group 1 race, but I don't want to drive her mad by taking her back to the barriers for more practice. Basically, I think it will rectify itself in time."
Black Caviar's stablemate Wanted debuted brilliantly for his new stable, finishing
powerfully to be second behind Black Caviar.
"Basically in the last two weeks he started to work well and I think he was just gaining genuine fitness and his run on Saturday was terrific,' Moody said of Wanted. "We could probably ponder other options for him now."
The group 1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes (1400 metres) at Caulfield on September 19 and the Manikato Stakes (1200 metres) at Moonee Valley on September 25 are possible targets for the former Sydney three-year-old.
Strain on Peter Moody over Black Caviar's future
Matt Stewart
September 07, 2009 12:00am
BLACK Caviar's immediate future will be determined in the next 48 hours, with trainer Peter Moody bracing himself and calling in the vets.
Moody fears Black Caviar may have torn a back or neck muscle in her clumsy exit from the gates in Saturday's Danehill Stakes at Flemington.
She stretched her unbeaten record to four in a remarkably tough win in the 1200m sprint after almost going down on her nose at the start.
It was her fourth poor get-away in an unbeaten career.
While the filly appeared to recover without noticeable soreness, she was given anti-inflammatory drugs yesterday and will be inspected today by the stable vet and chiropractor.
"It will be interesting to see how she trots up tomorrow and Tuesday," Moody said yesterday.
"I won't be surprised at all if she pulls up with some sort of strain.
"She's done it before. If that's so, there's no point wondering what races to set her for, because with a filly as valuable as her, there might not be any point going on (this spring) if there's a problem."
If Black Caviar is given the all-clear today, Moody said he had three options -- the Thousand Guineas Prelude (1400m) or the Rupert Clarke Stakes (1400m), both at Caulfield on September 19, or the Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley on September 25.
Moody said Black Caviar's trait of dwelling at the start - she actually pre-empted it in the Danehill - was a major concern.
"It will probably cost her a Group 1 one day," he said.
"You could imagine drawing gate one in a Manikato and botching the start against those experienced older horses who jump straight into the bridle."
He said there was little he could do behind the scenes to mend Black Caviar's barrier manners.
"You drive them mad putting them through the barriers 100 times," Moody said.
"It's a problem that will probably sort itself out with time, but it is a problem."
Royal Saint 6/9/09
Royal Saint by Four
· On the day when Esprit Lad who had won five races with three placings from thi
rteen starts, returned to racing at Moree after a break of twelve months, Royal Saint lined up as favorite in the Class 2 Bluesky Thoroughbreds Hcp. over 1200m.
· This Bel Esprit mare had won two races from three starts this preparation under trainer Phillip Ayoub, one by five lengths and the other by six and a half lengths (finished second in other start), was stepping up in distance, carrying 57.5k with Peter Graham aboard and she demolished the opposition to win by four lengths in a time of 1.11.39 on a dead 5 track.
Royal Saint (AUS) [2005] Phillip Ayoub
rteen starts, returned to racing at Moree after a break of twelve months, Royal Saint lined up as favorite in the Class 2 Bluesky Thoroughbreds Hcp. over 1200m.· This Bel Esprit mare had won two races from three starts this preparation under trainer Phillip Ayoub, one by five lengths and the other by six and a half lengths (finished second in other start), was stepping up in distance, carrying 57.5k with Peter Graham aboard and she demolished the opposition to win by four lengths in a time of 1.11.39 on a dead 5 track.
Royal Saint (AUS) [2005] Phillip Ayoub
Bel Esprit (AUS) - Poniard (AUS)
Siblings
YOU'RE IN DANGER (AUS) [2002] - DANGEROUS (AUS)0w-1p-6s $1,000Race: 1200-1600m Won: 0-0m Wet: 0w-0p-3s
PONTCHATEAU (AUS) [2003] - DIATRIBE (AUS)0w-1p-11s $2,200Race: 1100-1400m Won: 0-0m Wet: 0w-0p-1s
GOLD HELP (AUS) [2004] - DANGEROUS (AUS)4w-10p-32s $166,200Race: 1000-1400m Won: 1200-1400m Wet: 0w-0p-0s
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Black Cariar 5/9/09
Black caviar aims high
Article from: Sunday Herald Sun
Adrian Dunn
September 06, 2009 12:00am
PETER Moody is seriously considering the Group 1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes for Black Caviar, who extended her winning streak not without a few heart flutters in yesterday's Danehill Stakes at Flemington.
Article from: Sunday Herald Sun
Adrian Dunn
September 06, 2009 12:00am
PETER Moody is seriously considering the Group 1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes for Black Caviar, who extended her winning streak not without a few heart flutters in yesterday's Danehill Stakes at Flemington.
Moody outlined three options for Black Caviar, including two Group 1 races against older horses as well as a return to her own sex and age group, when she next starts.
He identified the $350,000 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on September 19, a race she is likely to get in on the minimum weight, and the weight for age $500,000 Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley on September 25 as the Group 1 options. 
Click small photos by BEWC photographer to enlarge
The other race is the Group 3 $125,000 Thousand Guineas Prelude (1400m) on the same day as the Sir Rupert Clarke.
"They're three very good options, we'll just weigh it up," Moody said.
"My biggest thing is whether I can keep her at 1200 metres. I've always had the Thousand Guineas in the back on my mind, she has been trained towards that.
"What I've got to consider is whether she can maintain her brilliance for three 1200m runs. There might be more security going to the (Thousand Guineas) Prelude or the Sir Rupert Clarke."
After sending a shiver through Moody, jockey Luke Nolen, connections and punters who bought the cramped odds when she slipped soon after the start, Black Caviar regrouped to add the Group 2 race to an already impressive record.
Nolen said that unlike her previous start where she missed the start, Black Caviar jump
ed a length clear then slipped.
"She had to pick herself up and that was only because she was going to head them a length instead of sitting on her bum and then going," Nolen said.
"She was pressured. It's a long straight if you are leading and she is still a big kid, she just had a look. If something had challenged her, I think it would have refocused her."
Black Caviar ($1.45 fav) had three-quarters of a length to spare from stablemate Wanted ($31) as she made it four wins from as many starts.
Moody said his heart was and truly in his mouth after Black Caviar slipped.
"She scramb
led. It looked like she slipped ass over head and went along the ground for 20 metres," he said.
"She defeated a very smart field and the second horse Wanted is a hell of a good colt.
"He's been going as good as anything in the yard at home lately so for her to do that and then still beat him it was an extremely good effort."
Moody assessment of Wanted was shared by Brad Rawiller, who, for a twinkling inside the 200m, thought Wanted would test Black Caviar.
"It was just a super run. Yeah, he had a soft trail, but I thought I was going to give the winner a fair bit of cheek 100m out," Rawiller said.
Wanted, Rarefied, Delago Bolt and Tollesprit pushed strongly their Caulfield Guineas claims.
Mark Pegus described as "sensational" the run of Tollesprit ($15), who had to be eased back to second last then had to change course again over the final 200m.
Click line below to watch race
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Glamour filly wins again
Clinton Payne
Saturday, 5 September 2009
Melbourne’s glamour filly Black Caviar gave punters a few anxious moments before passing her toughest test to date to win the Group II Danehill Stakes (1200m) at Flemington.
Black Caviar was away with the field but sprawled as she attempted to muster speed, briefly putting punters’ hearts in their mouths before regaining her balance. 
“She flew the gates this time but she slipped both front and back,” Black Caviar’s jockey Luke Nolen said.
“But she got her balance and got going eventually.”
The three-year-old was able to cruise forward to share the lead before going for home at the 350 metres, outgunning her opposition to get home by three-quarters of a length.
Wanted completed the Peter Moody stable’s show of strength by running on hard to complete at stable quinella, a half-length in front of Rarefied from the Peter Snowden camp.
Moody said Black Caviar needed to improve her performance out of the gates if she is to continue her progress into harder races during the spring.
“She can afford to do that less as her competition gets harder,” Moody said.
“But she was able to pick herself up and take a sit and she did it well at the end.
“Wanted’s been working well and he’s a very talented three-year-old so she’s done a good job to beat him.”
Moody said connections had three options to choose from for the filly’s next run, saying the filly could tackle the older horses at 1400 metres.
“She’ll get in on the limit against the older sprinters in the Rupert Clarke Stakes which makes it an appealing option,” Moody said.
“We could go to the Manikato Stakes or the Thousand Guineas Prelude as well.”
The placings and margins: Black Caviar (L Nolen) 54kg ($1.45 fav) defeated Wanted (B Rawiller) 55.5kg ($31) by three quarters of a length with a half-neck back to Rarefied (M Zahra) 55.5kg ($16) in third place.
Winner’s breeding – Black Caviar is a three-year-old filly by Bel Esprit out of Helsing
e (Desert Sun (GB)).
The time and sectionals – The field covered the 1200 metres in 1.09.96 with the last 600 run in 33.63 seconds.
What they said – “She just began too quick this time and lost her footing. But she was good enough to pick herself up,” said Luke Nolen, winning rider of Black Caviar.
“Terrific effort. There’s your Caulfield Guineas winner,” said Mark Pegus, rider of Tollesprit (5th).
The market – Black Caviar opened at $1.40 before easing to $1.45. Wanted opened at $21 before starting at $31. Rarefied opened at $9 and eased to $10. The market closed at 117 percent.
Inglis Classic Prospects Impress At Flemington
Saturday, 
5 September 2009:
Led by unbeaten filly Black Caviar, Inglis graduates dominated at today's feature Makybe Diva Stakes meeting at Flemington, winning five of the first six races, including three at stakes level.
And a number of them are likely to feature in upcoming three-year-old Classic contests.Despite sprawling at the start, BLACK CAVIAR ($210,000 2008 Premier, 3f Bel Esprit-Helsinge) was able to pick herself up and maintain her unbeaten record in taking out the G3 Danehill Stakes.Trainer Peter Moody is keeping his options open with Black Caviar, who was offered for sale by Swettenham Stud as agent. Potential targets next time out include the G1 Manikato Stakes or G1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes - both against the older horses.She is then likely to contest the G1 Thousand Guineas, for which she remains a very warm favourite.
Caviar Overcomes Starting Stumble 
Outstanding filly Black Caviar maintained her unbeaten record in the Danehill Stakes at Flemington today but not before giving punters a huge scare after stumbling at the start.
Black Caviar has a history of being tardy at the start, but today's race created another issue.
"We rectified that problem but she was a bit too good at it", said winning rider Luke Nolen.
Nolen shrugged off suggestions that Black Caviar may have taken harm from her stumble.
"I couldn't fault her", he said. 
"They can pull muscles in their back but you normally feel that in the run."
"She felt fine to me and she felt fine coming back."Starting a hot favourite at $1.45, Black Caviar put in a final sectional of 33.63 to win by three quarters of a length from stablemate Wanted ($21-$31) with a half length to Rarefied ($9-$10).
Winning trainer Peter Moody was thrilled with scoring the quinella as Wanted has recently joined Black Caviar in his stable.
"She scrambled and I just hope she hasn't hurt herself", he said.
"Hopefully we've still got a horse."
Moody observed that Black Caviar was more agitated than she was before winning the Crockett Stakes at Moonee Valley last start.
"At the Valley I thought she was a bit more relaxed", he said. 
"She was a bit more agitated today and she's raced a bit fiercely."Nolen echoed Moody's sentiments, suggesting that the mishap at the start got Black Caviar stirred her up before her better qualities saw her through.
"She's a thorough professional but when we found the front it really didn't suit her", he said.
"She was having a look and I thought she showed a lot of courage late."
While Black Caviar and Wanted will take different paths from here on, Moody has ambitious plans for both three year olds.
"She's beaten a very smart field there today" Moody observed.
"The second horse Wanted, he's a hell of a good colt and he's been going as good as anything in the 
yard at home lately."
"So for her to do that and beat him, that was an extremely good effort because he's going to be hard to beat in whatever he runs in."
For Black Caviar Moody explained :
"We've got a few options. We've got the Manikato, the Rupert Clarke or the Guineas Prelude."
"We'll just weigh it up."
Nolen suggested that Black Caviar might settle better over a slightly longer distance. 
"I'd like to ride her in a spot", he said.
"Today she felt to me like she might appreciate seven furlongs."
"She might have to go to the Thousand Guineas Prelude."
As for Wanted, Moody said :
"He'll go to the Guineas Prelude in a couple of weeks and I'm really looking forward to that."
Early slip puts Black Caviar connections on edge
Andrew EddySeptember 6, 2009
IT TOOK her less than 70 seconds from the start to the finish but trainer Peter Moody held his breath for a little longer than that. For while unbeaten filly Black Caviar proved too smart in yesterday's $250,000 Danehill Stakes at Flemington, a slip at the start of the race caused her connections more than a moment's discomfort.
''I certainly had my heart in my mouth,'' Moody said immediately after the race. ''I just hope she hasn't hurt herself as she went along the ground for 20 yards.''
A quick examination of the muscular filly showed no obvious signs of damage but it will not be until she cools down that Moody can be certain Australian racing's most promising galloper can continue to enhance her lofty reputation through the spring carnival. ''She looks OK. There's no skin off,'' he reported later.
Bookmakers bet no more than $1.45 for Black Caviar as she took on the three-year-old males yesterday and so her three-quarter length victory over stablemate Wanted ($31) may have seemed slightly disappointing on paper. But given that she slipped badly at the start and then over-raced for the early part of yesterday's race, her performance in running 1 minute, 09.96 seconds to win had plenty of merit.
''In the end, she's done the job,'' Moody said. ''Wanted is a hell of a good colt and he's going as good as anything in the yard, so you've got to be happy with what she did.''
Black Caviar has a list of group 1 races at her mercy this spring if she continues in the form she has shown in her four career starts.
The three-year-old filly either goes to the elite level against the older horses in the Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes (1400 metres) at Caulfield in two weeks or the Manikato Stakes (1200 metres) at Moonee Valley a week later. That is, of course, unless Moody decides the filly can stretch out to the 1600 metres of the Caulfield or Thousand Guineas. ''I've got the Guineas Prelude [1400 metres in two weeks] in mind for her as well but we'll just get home, let the dust settle and make our mind up from there,'' Moody said.
Asked whether he harboured any doubts that she could be as effective by stepping up to 1400 metres, Moody was emphatic in his response. ''I've got more fears holding her back [to 1200 metres],'' he said.
''Now she's had the two runs, she's looking to get out to seven [furlongs or 1400 metres].''
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Black Caviar 5/9/09
Danehill a definer for Black Caviar
Friday, 4 September 2009: The sky is the limit for Black Caviar if she can again dominate her opposition in Saturday's Danehill Stakes at Flemington, and trainer Peter Moody is looking forward to what he describes as her defining race.
The exciting three-year-old filly is unbeaten in three starts which she has won by an aggregate of 14-3/4 lengths.But she steps up from two ultra-impressive Listed victories to Group Two company for the first time in the 1200m feature.
"It's just a nice progression for her. She's stepped up and each time it's been a little bit harder," Moody said."The bar has been lifted and she's met it and it's no different tomorrow.""You've got the (Golden) Slipper form and a bit of winter and early spring form through the likes of Tollesprit and Grand Harmony.
"So it all comes together tomorrow and if she wins this race we're nicely placed for the three-year-old fillies races and maybe colts races."And if she can dominate like she has been then maybe we can lift the bar further.
"Moody has already earmarked the Group One weight-for-age Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley on September 25 for the filly should she live up to his expectations on Saturday.
The Caulfield trainer won the 2007 Danehill, which has been elevated from Group Three to Group Two level this year, with another filly Tan Tat De Lago who, at $31, went forward and caused a big upset when she beat reigning Horse of the Year Scenic Blast.
Moody has a much higher opinion of Black Caviar."As six furlong (1200m) sprinters I know which one I'd rather be on," he said."Everything fell into place for her (Tan Tat De Lago) that day and hopefully it does again tomorrow."
Friday, 4 September 2009: The sky is the limit for Black Caviar if she can again dominate her opposition in Saturday's Danehill Stakes at Flemington, and trainer Peter Moody is looking forward to what he describes as her defining race.
The exciting three-year-old filly is unbeaten in three starts which she has won by an aggregate of 14-3/4 lengths.But she steps up from two ultra-impressive Listed victories to Group Two company for the first time in the 1200m feature.
"It's just a nice progression for her. She's stepped up and each time it's been a little bit harder," Moody said."The bar has been lifted and she's met it and it's no different tomorrow.""You've got the (Golden) Slipper form and a bit of winter and early spring form through the likes of Tollesprit and Grand Harmony.
"So it all comes together tomorrow and if she wins this race we're nicely placed for the three-year-old fillies races and maybe colts races."And if she can dominate like she has been then maybe we can lift the bar further.
"Moody has already earmarked the Group One weight-for-age Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley on September 25 for the filly should she live up to his expectations on Saturday.
The Caulfield trainer won the 2007 Danehill, which has been elevated from Group Three to Group Two level this year, with another filly Tan Tat De Lago who, at $31, went forward and caused a big upset when she beat reigning Horse of the Year Scenic Blast.
Moody has a much higher opinion of Black Caviar."As six furlong (1200m) sprinters I know which one I'd rather be on," he said."Everything fell into place for her (Tan Tat De Lago) that day and hopefully it does again tomorrow."
Bel Mer 3/9/09
Group One Winner Retired
Written by Carl Di Iorio
Friday, 04 September 2
Group One winning mare Bel Mer has been retired following her disappointing performance at Caulfield last Saturday.
Trainer Mick Price notified Racing Victoria stewards of his intention to do so earlier in the week.
Resuming with a fifth in the $125,000 Group 3 Bletchingly Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield last month, Bel Mer performed well below expectations on Saturday, finishing thirteenth in the $100,000 Listed Clamms Seafood Stakes (1100m) at the same venue.
That poor run signalled to connections that any ambitions of claiming a second Group 1 win for the year in the $500,000 Manikato Stakes (1200m), at Moonee Valley later this month, were faint at best.
Earlier this year, Bel Mer won her first Group 1 in the $300,000 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville.
Bel Mer retires with four wins and seven placings to her name from a 19 start career, accumulating in excess of $580,000 in prizemoney.
Her three other wins were at Listed level however she was placed in stakes company on several occasions
Written by Carl Di Iorio
Friday, 04 September 2
Group One winning mare Bel Mer has been retired following her disappointing performance at Caulfield last Saturday.Trainer Mick Price notified Racing Victoria stewards of his intention to do so earlier in the week.
Resuming with a fifth in the $125,000 Group 3 Bletchingly Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield last month, Bel Mer performed well below expectations on Saturday, finishing thirteenth in the $100,000 Listed Clamms Seafood Stakes (1100m) at the same venue.
That poor run signalled to connections that any ambitions of claiming a second Group 1 win for the year in the $500,000 Manikato Stakes (1200m), at Moonee Valley later this month, were faint at best.
Earlier this year, Bel Mer won her first Group 1 in the $300,000 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville.
Bel Mer retires with four wins and seven placings to her name from a 19 start career, accumulating in excess of $580,000 in prizemoney.
Her three other wins were at Listed level however she was placed in stakes company on several occasions
Friday, September 4, 2009
Black Caviar Owners 4/9/09
'Caviar' owners walking on water
Black Caviar races clear of her rivals to win at Moonee Valley last month. The boom filly will have a much tougher assignment in the Danehill Stakes tomorrow.Photo: Getty Images
Patrick Bartley
September 4, 2009
FOR MORE than a decade, five families, some from Sydney and others from Melbourne, have gathered at Echuca for an annual water-skiing trip.
The tradition of enjoying summer at the popular town on the Murray River has gained momentum each year as the families expanded.
In recent years, apart from the water sports, the five couples have talked long and hard about one day racing a horse as a group.
They weren't interested in large or lavish syndicates, they just wanted a racehorse to provide their close-knit group with the joy of winning.
So they put Caulfield trainer Peter Moody on the case and after a time, Moody discovered the horse. He called businessman Neil Werrett with the news.
''Peter rang and missed Neil but I took the call and he explained that he'd found a fil
ly that would suit our needs,'' Gary Wilkie recalled this week.
''And I can still remember how really upbeat he was about a yearling by Bel Esprit that was being offered at the Melbourne sales … I could tell from Peter's voice that he was pretty keen on this filly.''
Moody said: ''Honestly, she was a cracking yearling. She just grabbed me the moment I saw her and I identified in her everything you want for a racehorse of the future.
''I was aware that $210,000 was a lot to pay but she was related to Magnus who I trained and at the time of the sale was going so well so this really balanced it up.''
Hours later and the water-skiing families had bought themselves a well-grown filly.
''Some of us have had horses before and we're never under any illusions that while you can get a good horse there's plenty of chances you'll get a slow one and there's nothing worse than paying up for an ordinary galloper,'' Wilkie said.
''But we had confidence in Peter and I think by having the five families involved it has just strengthened our friendship.''
Tomorrow, at Flemington, Black Caviar, touted as one of Australia's finest fillies and a winner of her three racecourse appearances, makes the quantum leap to be matched against colts in the group 2 $250,000 Danehill Stakes.
The momentum surrounding Black Caviar's future has some racing judges believing that the unbeaten filly could do what only one three-year-old filly - Surround - has ever done by winning the Cox Plate next month.
But according to Wilkie, while their trainer is understandably excited by Black Caviar's potential he's not being caught up in the euphoria surrounding the daughter of Bel Esprit.
''Her three wins have been good, very good, but each run is another step harder and all of us have tasted defeat and I'm sure that we'll be like everyone in racing that there'll be a day when she gets blocked for a run or, like she did last time, miss the start.
''Although anyone believing that it's a trait of hers would be wrong as the jockey Luke Nolen said that she was laying back on her haunches when the gates opened at Moonee Valley and that's why she was slow away.''
But Wilkie, apart from the dream of owning a potential champion, believes it has been a win-win for the five families that invested in her.
''Sure, it's exciting. It's great we're friends that have managed to get a good horse and we're entering the spring carnival but it's had a filtering-down effect on all the families involved,'' he said.
''The children and all of us that go to Echuca have a little share and they're just as excited as we are. In fact, tomorrow at Flemington we've got 33 of us getting together for lunch before Black Caviar makes her appearance in the Danehill.
''It's an understatement that we're glad that we acted upon all of those long discussions on summer nights about one day getting a racehorse and racing it as a group.''
Black Caviar, who seems destined for group 1 success, is already a black-type winner - a valuable part of the youngster's profile when she eventually goes to stud.
''She is valuable, just how valuable I don't know,'' Wilkie said, noting that it was difficult to predict what heights she would reach.
''Obviously some very good judges out there rate her highly and there's been some very, very large offers to purchase her or even purchase a share of her but at the end of the day we'd just like to keep the group together,'' he said.
''A few of us have had success with racehorses and we are vitally aware that every racehorse has its value and we're mindful that that figure may be reached.
''But at the same time we've even looked at one day breeding from her which would be another exciting concept - but a fair way down the track at this stage.''
Since Black Caviar's rise to such prominence, Wilkie and his partners have made inquiries about the filly's mother, Helsinge.
The mare raced with success but her full potential was never reached after she developed leg problems.
''She's got a lovely pedigree and a physical presence to go with it. Peter often comments on the scope and size of her. That's probably a great attribute with the races she may be tackling in the next 12 months,'' he said.
Wilkie and Werrett, after putting the group together, gave the usual warnings that she may not amount to much when her racing career commenced.
That fear, after three soft wins, has been dispelled but the two businessmen continue to reinforce the point that they are fortunate to have a very capable racehorse and to ''enjoy the ride''.
And that ride will continue tomorrow.
Hopefully for the water skiers it will be four victories from as many starts, which will ensure a summer to remember later this year.
Black Caviar races clear of her rivals to win at Moonee Valley last month. The boom filly will have a much tougher assignment in the Danehill Stakes tomorrow.Photo: Getty Images
Patrick Bartley
September 4, 2009
FOR MORE than a decade, five families, some from Sydney and others from Melbourne, have gathered at Echuca for an annual water-skiing trip.
The tradition of enjoying summer at the popular town on the Murray River has gained momentum each year as the families expanded.
In recent years, apart from the water sports, the five couples have talked long and hard about one day racing a horse as a group.
They weren't interested in large or lavish syndicates, they just wanted a racehorse to provide their close-knit group with the joy of winning.
So they put Caulfield trainer Peter Moody on the case and after a time, Moody discovered the horse. He called businessman Neil Werrett with the news.
''Peter rang and missed Neil but I took the call and he explained that he'd found a fil
ly that would suit our needs,'' Gary Wilkie recalled this week.''And I can still remember how really upbeat he was about a yearling by Bel Esprit that was being offered at the Melbourne sales … I could tell from Peter's voice that he was pretty keen on this filly.''
Moody said: ''Honestly, she was a cracking yearling. She just grabbed me the moment I saw her and I identified in her everything you want for a racehorse of the future.
''I was aware that $210,000 was a lot to pay but she was related to Magnus who I trained and at the time of the sale was going so well so this really balanced it up.''
Hours later and the water-skiing families had bought themselves a well-grown filly.
''Some of us have had horses before and we're never under any illusions that while you can get a good horse there's plenty of chances you'll get a slow one and there's nothing worse than paying up for an ordinary galloper,'' Wilkie said.
''But we had confidence in Peter and I think by having the five families involved it has just strengthened our friendship.''
Tomorrow, at Flemington, Black Caviar, touted as one of Australia's finest fillies and a winner of her three racecourse appearances, makes the quantum leap to be matched against colts in the group 2 $250,000 Danehill Stakes.
The momentum surrounding Black Caviar's future has some racing judges believing that the unbeaten filly could do what only one three-year-old filly - Surround - has ever done by winning the Cox Plate next month.
But according to Wilkie, while their trainer is understandably excited by Black Caviar's potential he's not being caught up in the euphoria surrounding the daughter of Bel Esprit.
''Her three wins have been good, very good, but each run is another step harder and all of us have tasted defeat and I'm sure that we'll be like everyone in racing that there'll be a day when she gets blocked for a run or, like she did last time, miss the start.
''Although anyone believing that it's a trait of hers would be wrong as the jockey Luke Nolen said that she was laying back on her haunches when the gates opened at Moonee Valley and that's why she was slow away.''
But Wilkie, apart from the dream of owning a potential champion, believes it has been a win-win for the five families that invested in her.
''Sure, it's exciting. It's great we're friends that have managed to get a good horse and we're entering the spring carnival but it's had a filtering-down effect on all the families involved,'' he said.
''The children and all of us that go to Echuca have a little share and they're just as excited as we are. In fact, tomorrow at Flemington we've got 33 of us getting together for lunch before Black Caviar makes her appearance in the Danehill.
''It's an understatement that we're glad that we acted upon all of those long discussions on summer nights about one day getting a racehorse and racing it as a group.''
Black Caviar, who seems destined for group 1 success, is already a black-type winner - a valuable part of the youngster's profile when she eventually goes to stud.
''She is valuable, just how valuable I don't know,'' Wilkie said, noting that it was difficult to predict what heights she would reach.
''Obviously some very good judges out there rate her highly and there's been some very, very large offers to purchase her or even purchase a share of her but at the end of the day we'd just like to keep the group together,'' he said.
''A few of us have had success with racehorses and we are vitally aware that every racehorse has its value and we're mindful that that figure may be reached.
''But at the same time we've even looked at one day breeding from her which would be another exciting concept - but a fair way down the track at this stage.''
Since Black Caviar's rise to such prominence, Wilkie and his partners have made inquiries about the filly's mother, Helsinge.
The mare raced with success but her full potential was never reached after she developed leg problems.
''She's got a lovely pedigree and a physical presence to go with it. Peter often comments on the scope and size of her. That's probably a great attribute with the races she may be tackling in the next 12 months,'' he said.
Wilkie and Werrett, after putting the group together, gave the usual warnings that she may not amount to much when her racing career commenced.
That fear, after three soft wins, has been dispelled but the two businessmen continue to reinforce the point that they are fortunate to have a very capable racehorse and to ''enjoy the ride''.
And that ride will continue tomorrow.
Hopefully for the water skiers it will be four victories from as many starts, which will ensure a summer to remember later this year.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Black Caviar 3/9/09
Hardly Moody with the two favourites
Brad Waters
Thursday, 3 September 2009
Caulfield trainer Peter Moody is a relaxed man despite having short-priced favourites for both of Saturday’s Group II Flemington features, the Danehill and Makybe Diva Stakes.
TAB Sportsbet has opened the Moody-trained filly Black Caviar as a $1.70 favourite to win the Danehill Stakes on the back of her three brilliant wins, the latest being a four-length romp at Moonee Valley on August 22.
The Group I A J C Sires’ Produce winner Manhattan Rain has been installed as a $6 second elect but Moody said Black Caviar needs to have improved from her first-up run to beat the colt.
“She did it fairly comfortably at Moonee Valley but she’s up against a quality field on Saturday,” Moody said. “Manhattan Rain was prominent against the best two-year-olds in the autumn and he’s a Group I winner.
“Black Caviar is a lovely athletic filly and I think she’s going to put on a good show on Saturday.”
Moody’s other Danehill Stakes runner, Wanted, is rated a $21 chance by TAB Sportsbet but Moody said the colt’s recent trackwork was of a good enough standard to give him an each-way chance.
Meanwhile, Typhoon Tracy has opened as a $2.30 favourite to take out the Makybe Diva Stakes despite being beaten into third by Predatory Pricer, who is rated as a $4.60 chance.
Brad Waters
Thursday, 3 September 2009
Caulfield trainer Peter Moody is a relaxed man despite having short-priced favourites for both of Saturday’s Group II Flemington features, the Danehill and Makybe Diva Stakes.
TAB Sportsbet has opened the Moody-trained filly Black Caviar as a $1.70 favourite to win the Danehill Stakes on the back of her three brilliant wins, the latest being a four-length romp at Moonee Valley on August 22.
The Group I A J C Sires’ Produce winner Manhattan Rain has been installed as a $6 second elect but Moody said Black Caviar needs to have improved from her first-up run to beat the colt.
“She did it fairly comfortably at Moonee Valley but she’s up against a quality field on Saturday,” Moody said. “Manhattan Rain was prominent against the best two-year-olds in the autumn and he’s a Group I winner.
“Black Caviar is a lovely athletic filly and I think she’s going to put on a good show on Saturday.”
Moody’s other Danehill Stakes runner, Wanted, is rated a $21 chance by TAB Sportsbet but Moody said the colt’s recent trackwork was of a good enough standard to give him an each-way chance.
Meanwhile, Typhoon Tracy has opened as a $2.30 favourite to take out the Makybe Diva Stakes despite being beaten into third by Predatory Pricer, who is rated as a $4.60 chance.
Tollesprit 3/9/09
Danehill Backup For Tollesprit 
Race programming has forced the hand of trainer Shane Fliedner with leading Caulfield Guineas prospect Tollesprit.
Tollesprit was a surprising acceptor for Saturday's Group Two Danehill Stakes (1200m) at Flemington after he launched his spring campaign a week ago with a barnstorming second to Starspangledbanner in the Group Three McNeil Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield.
Fliedner said it wasn't his plan to run the three-year-old old in consecutive weeks so early in his campaign but after studying the race programming he was left with little choice.
"I am between a rock and a hard spot," Fliedner said.
"It is not that I want to run him this Saturday but all of a sudden I have got three weeks to the Guineas Prelude if he doesn't run this Saturday."
He said it was preferable to back up Tollesprit at this stage of his campaign rather than wait for the Prelude on September 19.
"If I had another option he wouldn't be there Saturday," Fliedner said.
He is hopeful that with an extra run now Tollesprit could have three weeks' break between the Prelude and the Caulfield Guineas.
The alternative would be backing up from Flemington on October 3 into the Guineas on October 10.
"With this run behind him he might be pretty fit by then and he mightn't need another run after the Prelude," Fliedner said.
"I don't want to be playing catch up then so I'm better off backing him up now.
"If you are playing catch up going into the Guineas then you shouldn't be running in it."
Tollesprit is on the third line of TAB Sportsbet's Caulfield Guineas market at $12 while he is $15 for the star-studded Danehill.
Unbeaten filly Black Caviar dominates the Danehill betting at $1.70 ahead of Group One-winning Golden Slipper placegetter Manhattan Rain ($6), Rarefied ($9) and Rostova ($11).
"It is a pretty hot field but it is not about thinking he (Tollesprit) can win it, it is about doing the right thing for the horse," Fliedner said.
"We just want him to be competitive at this stage.
"It is a gun field, no doubt about it, and this will give us a good idea where he is at."
Race programming has forced the hand of trainer Shane Fliedner with leading Caulfield Guineas prospect Tollesprit.
Tollesprit was a surprising acceptor for Saturday's Group Two Danehill Stakes (1200m) at Flemington after he launched his spring campaign a week ago with a barnstorming second to Starspangledbanner in the Group Three McNeil Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield.
Fliedner said it wasn't his plan to run the three-year-old old in consecutive weeks so early in his campaign but after studying the race programming he was left with little choice.
"I am between a rock and a hard spot," Fliedner said.
"It is not that I want to run him this Saturday but all of a sudden I have got three weeks to the Guineas Prelude if he doesn't run this Saturday."
He said it was preferable to back up Tollesprit at this stage of his campaign rather than wait for the Prelude on September 19.
"If I had another option he wouldn't be there Saturday," Fliedner said.
He is hopeful that with an extra run now Tollesprit could have three weeks' break between the Prelude and the Caulfield Guineas.
The alternative would be backing up from Flemington on October 3 into the Guineas on October 10.
"With this run behind him he might be pretty fit by then and he mightn't need another run after the Prelude," Fliedner said.
"I don't want to be playing catch up then so I'm better off backing him up now.
"If you are playing catch up going into the Guineas then you shouldn't be running in it."
Tollesprit is on the third line of TAB Sportsbet's Caulfield Guineas market at $12 while he is $15 for the star-studded Danehill.
Unbeaten filly Black Caviar dominates the Danehill betting at $1.70 ahead of Group One-winning Golden Slipper placegetter Manhattan Rain ($6), Rarefied ($9) and Rostova ($11).
"It is a pretty hot field but it is not about thinking he (Tollesprit) can win it, it is about doing the right thing for the horse," Fliedner said.
"We just want him to be competitive at this stage.
"It is a gun field, no doubt about it, and this will give us a good idea where he is at."
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