News

Sharp local filly Illicit Dreams will aim to continue her strong fresh-up record when resuming in the Shane Batten Electrical (1100m) at Ruakaka on Saturday.

The appeal of better track conditions at Ruakaka has Moira and Keiran Murdoch eyeing a series of races for their team in the coming months, including talented five-year-old Shamus.

It’s been a long road to get to Queensland with dual Group One winner La Crique, but trainers Simon and Katrina Alexander are relieved they are finally there.

Steven Cole will be out to recoup a measure of money spent on the Gold Coast this week with a quartet of runners at Ruakaka on Saturday.

A combination of dedication and a willingness to travel continues to reward Central Districts jockey Chris Dell.

The impressive recent strike-rate of Opie Bosson continued at Matamata on Wednesday, with the top hoop steering home three winners for Te Akau trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson.

Andy Win completed a memorable Prima Park graduate double this week in the Matamata Glass & Joinery 2000 on Wednesday, and farm principal Kelly Van Dyk couldn’t be any happier with the result.

Waverley trainer Bill Thurlow is hoping to collect a couple of breakthrough successes with four runners heading to New Plymouth on Thursday.

Te Akau principal David Ellis has had a record year buying and syndicating yearlings, and he was again active at the 2024 Gold Coast National Yearling Sale over the last two days.

Distinguished New Zealand thoroughbred industry leader Joe Walls has retired from his role as Chairman of the NZB Board of Directors, bringing to a close his illustrious tenure with the auction house that spanned more than five decades.

Group One winner Belclare’s retirement from racing has been short-lived, with the daughter of Per Incanto set to join expat Kiwi trainer Bjorn Baker’s Sydney barn.

Well-related mare Dresse’ Par Joli will have her final opportunity to break her maiden on Wednesday before she heads off on a winter break.