Our industry lost one of its very best earlier this month with New Zealand racing and breeding icon Sir Patrick Hogan passing away, aged 83.
Sir Patrick was a great supporter of OnTrack and our New Zealand Horse & Wine Tour which commenced in 2005. I can say without doubt that of all the studmasters that host our tours around the world, there was none more giving of his time than Sir Patrick. Sir Patrick reinforced a lesson I was taught long ago - you never really know where your next customer could come from. Whilst our tour groups were largely unlikely to book mares to his stallions or even buy a yearling, he spoke to each of our guests as if they could well be the next 'Robert Sangster' by rolling out the red carpet to all and sundry in our groups. I took this fabulous image of Sir Patrick on one of our tours, and we will continue to pay homage to the great man by featuring it into the future. On each of our tours, regardless of if they are in New Zealand, Royal Ascot, Hong Kong or the Hunter Valley, we also play the fabulous “The Promise” video which features the Sir Tristram story as told by Sir Patrick. If you haven’t watched it, do yourself a favour and track down a copy. I never get sick of watching it. During our most recent tour of New Zealand we were again privileged to be hosted at Cambridge Stud by new owners Brendan and Jo Lindsay and their right hand man Henry Plumptre. The new heritage centre is among the best I have ever viewed and is a tremendous ‘nod’ to Sir Patrick and its immensely pleasing to see his legacy will live on strongly at Cambridge. The OnTrack team were thrilled to return to New Zealand with a wonderful group of guests for our first NZ Horse and Wine tour for 3 years. 21 guests assembled from across Australia to attend the tour, many of which have postponed on several occasions due to COVID enforced lockouts. One of the highlights for the group was a visit to Cambridge Stud, and in particular, the new Heritage Centre. The Heritage Centre pays great homage to Sir Patrick Hogan, the founder of this iconic New Zealand brand. It is a massive credit to new owners Brendan & Jo Lindsay, and also Henry Plumptre. Our guests also enjoyed visits to Rich Hill Stud, Waikato Stud, Windsor Park Stud and Westbury Stud, as well as a tour of the Cambridge Stud training facility at Karaka. Our annual visit to the gorgeous Waiheke Island was again a highlight, with visits to Mudbrick Vineyard for lunch, as well as wine tasting at Cable Bay and Goldie Vineyard.
Racing action for the group was at Te Rapa, which stepped in for Ellerslie whilst its upgrade continues. We stopped in for a drink or two at the fabulous new Double Tree Hilton at Karaka. The tour rounded off with a visit to the New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka sales complex with a tour followed by some lunch. With plenty of good wine and great food consumed throughout, it was delightful to again see a number of new friendships blossom in the group. We will be releasing dates for our 2023 New Zealand tour soon. Quality mare Dubai Dee got her maiden out of the way in fine style at Doomben when stepped up to 1650m at just her third start for trainer David Vandyke. Well rated in front by Steph Thornton, Dubai Dee looked to be in control of the maiden throughout displaying a long stride and flowing action. Dubai Dee the top priced lot at the COVID impacted 2020 Magic Millions QTIS sale. Bred by River Junction’s Troy Schmidt, Dubai Dee was knocked down to OnTrack boss Grant Morgan for $170,000. Dubai Dee is a half sister to the former top flight Tony Gollan prepared galloper Looks Like The Cat. “She was a lovely yearling with a huge walk. I love buying horses that have big actions at the walk. I think it just gives you a better chance of ending up with a longer stride length,” said Grant Morgan. Dubai Dee debuted in January 2022 when fourth at Ipswich. She pulled up with some general soreness from that run suggesting she would benefit from further time. She enjoyed a good length spell in fabulous country at Telemon Thoroughbreds at Innisplain.
To help her learn to use her big frame to its maximum, the team at OnTrack entrusted her to the care of champion equestrian horsemen Phil Bobic and Adam Oliver at Universal Stables in the Scenic Rim district in South East Queensland. “We are using Universal Stables for all of our horses just to give them some variety of education in the equestrian ring. “The first horse we sent Adam and Phil was Tavisan who has been in good form this prep as a seven year-old, his most recent run was a third at Listed level at Doomben in track record time over 1200m behind Holyfield in the Keith Noud. “Dubai Dee is the second horse to go through the system to make the races, so they have a 100% record for us. “I think variety in pre-training and training of racehorses now is vital. Integrating other techniques rather than just monotonous work around an oval shaped track is essential,” said Morgan. Congratulations to owners: D A Worthley, P C Mcclintock, M D Bates, D J Bates, P C Johnson, M J Ostermeyer, A M Morrison-Galt, L Blades, K Vincent, Pinehurst Racing (Mgr: G Affleck), G A Henry, B J Muller, D S Strand, B A Cottrell, S M Ferrarin, K J Gordon, S Hitchener, M A Linnane, D M Linnane, W G Marshall, B P Mawer, N Mildren, K J Stocks, D J Sutherland & J E Van Steenis. Photos courtesy of Grant Peters of Trackside Photography Good looking former European galloper Without Revenge has made it back to back wins in Australia with a dominant display as a warm favourite in Saturday metro grade at Doomben. Without Revenge won well first time out over 1400m at the Sunshine Coast before being asked to step up to the 1640m journey at Doomben. Perfectly placed in a $75,000 Class 3 plate, Without Revenge never looked in doubt before scoring with plenty in hand under his admiring pilot Ryan Maloney. A regular sight in the well known OnTrack ‘All Gold’ silks, Maloney has developed a good opinion of Without Revenge since his arrival in the Sunshine Coast stable of David Vandyke. “Ryan quickly established Without Revenge had a huge amount of potential here in Australia,” said OnTrack CEO Grant Morgan. “Ryan and David have a wonderful combination and understanding. It’s great to have a galloper like Without Revenge to put their talent on show.” Without Revenge is now likely to head interstate in a bid to continue building a picket fence of wins. Next stop for the UK born Without Revenge may be Saturday 19 November at Kembla Grange in a $150,000 BM88 Hcp (1600m). “David and I feel a trip away at this stage might serve him well. It’s massive money in NSW and Kembla Grange is a lovely roomy track which should suit him ideally. “We will re-assess Without Revenge following his next start and then map out some bigger plans for him over the next 12 months,” said Morgan Congratulations to shareholders: Mr D Lesjak, Mr C Lambley, Mrs R J Lambley, Bayles Girls Racing, Mr D J Bates, Mrs M D Bates, Pinehurst Racing, Dr D J O'Brien, Bayside Allsports, Mr P Baker, Mrs C J McGrorey, Mr M J Ostermeyer, Dr D A Worthley, Mr P Arbuckle, Mr A Grigg, Mr G F Townsend, Mr S R Clark, G Batchelder, A Jackson, Meri Tasol Synd, G Radburn, J Van Steenis, B Leaity, The Ukraines Synd, T Griffin, C Tomlinson, C Gray, Lucky Ten Synd, S Franklin, F1 Racing, & P Hanan. European galloper Without Revenge backed up impressive trial form with a comfortable victory on debut in Australia at the Sunshine Coast. Without Revenge was secured by OnTrack late last year and earmarked for the care of outstanding horseman David Vandyke at the Sunshine Coast. With the eagle eye of our European agent Stuart Boman well used again, Without Revenge was purchased out of the 2021 Tattersalls Autumn Horses in Training Sale. Without Revenge was formerly prepared at Newmarket by Roger Charlton, winning 2 of his 11 starts and placing in a further 2 races. His UK wins came at Newmarket over 2000m and Lingfield All Weather 1600m course. “Stuart immediately identified Without Revenge as a horse that would be suited around the 1600m-2000m mark in Australia in races with genuine tempo,” said OnTrack boss Grant Morgan. “They tried to stretch him out to 2400m and some of the speed may have been trained out of him in the UK towards the end.” “Stuart felt he looked very much like the Lope De Vega side of the pedigree and he has been very successful in Australia.” Key factors behind the decision to purchase Without Revenge were solid performances at two of the UK’s biggest racing carnivals. “He ran well at Royal Ascot in a decent race then backed that up by a narrow second at Goodwood, both races over 2000m. If horses can run well at those carnivals, the form normally transfers well to Australia. “We are trying to buy horses that have a decent rating, have solid Good track form and preferably race on speed or have good tactical speed, said Morgan. Without Revenge is scheduled to have his next Australian start at Doomben on Saturday October 22 in a BM 78 Hcp (1600m). He also holds a nomination for the $2m Five Diamonds (1800m) at Rosehill on Saturday 5 November. Congratulations to shareholders: Mr D Lesjak, Mr C Lambley, Mrs R J Lambley, Bayles Girls Racing, Mr D J Bates, Mrs M D Bates, Pinehurst Racing, Dr D J O'Brien, Bayside Allsports, Mr P Baker, Mrs C J McGrorey, Mr M J Ostermeyer, Dr D A Worthley, Mr P Arbuckle, Mr A Grigg, Mr G F Townsend, Mr S R Clark, G Batchelder, A Jackson, Meri Tasol Synd, G Radburn, J Van Steenis, B Leaity, The Ukraines Synd, T Griffin, C Tomlinson, C Gray, Lucky Ten Synd, S Franklin, F1 Racing, & P Hanan. Images courtesy of Trackside Photography - Grant Peters. Consistent mare Always On Show indicated there could be a good future on rain affected tracks by an effortless win at Canterbury on a heavy 10. Having only her second attempt on a heavy surface, Always On Show was always in control of the race before being eased down by Dylan Gibbons to score an official margin of 5.7 lengths. Her previous soft track form was strong with 2 wins and 4 placings from 7 starts, indicating the heavy track would be of no concern for the five year-old daughter of Showcasing. Always On Show takes her record to 4 wins and 10 placings from 24 starts. Ontrack boss Grant Morgan secured Always On Show at the 2019 Magic Millions National Yearling Sale for $110,000. Always On Show was bred in New Zealand by the Chitty family at their Haunui Farm, which was also the former southern hemisphere home to her sire Showcasing (GB). Congratulations to shareholders: Congratulations to owners: FTB Syndicate (Manager Paul Holloway), Paul & Karen Davis, Marilyn Searles, Mike Larmer, Kate Kelly, Norm & Ted Land, Babu No 4 (Manager Prof James Dale), The fifthhole Racing (Manager Damien Dwyer), Brad Maltby, Denis McGrorey, Albert Cid, Gary Pratt, Bruce Young, Dinah Newhouse, Michael Byrne, Gary Batchelder, Brian & Linda Irwin, Carl Fischer, Robert Hill, Glenda Newick, Tim O’Neil & Julee Van Steenis. Improving gelding Brazen Breccia has made it three wins on end scoring a tough victory at the Sunshine Coast. The Lauren Abbott trained son of Brazen Beau extended his winning streak out to the tougher 1600m circuit at the Sunshine Coast. The victory came with a polished display by leading rider Ryan Maloney. With his record now standing at 3 wins and 5 placings from 10 starts, Brazen Breccia will now graduate to Saturday metropolitan company. He will contest the $75,000 Class 3 Handicap (1700m) at the Gold Coast on Saturday 17 September. Michael Cahill will partner Brazen Breccia at the Gold Coast, with Ryan Maloney riding in Melbourne at Caulfield on the day aboard the Tony Gollan prepared Isotope. Congratulations to owners: David Worthley, Paul & Karen Davis, Trevor Maddison, Vin Harink, Gordon Henry, Bushs Lane Syndicate Manager: Matt Kennedy, Dennis & Dell Bates, Garry Batchelder, Colin Stacey, Gregg Marks, Peter Spence & Pam Johnston, Trent Bromley, Brian Bailey, Paul Blair, Will Bow, Yvonne Bowen, Alan Jackson, Natasha Mildren, Dan Paton, Ben Schumacher, David Sutherland , Julee Van Steenis & Bebe Mawer. Images courtesy of Grant Peters Trackside Photos. Progressive middle distance prospect Brazen Breccia continued his development by registering another dominant win, this time on the NSW Northern Rivers circuit. Ryan Maloney made a rare appearance in the area to partner Brazen Breccia, his only ride on the eight race card. “Ryan (Maloney) is our first choice rider in Queensland being closely aligned with two of our key trainers in David Vandyke and Tony Gollan,” said Grant Morgan of OnTrack. “It was wonderful he made the effort for us to continue his association with Brazen Breccia after scoring on him last start at Ipswich. Brazen Breccia is prepared by the in-form Lauren Abbott, and Morgan was quick to heap praise on the talented horsewomen. “Lauren just lives and breathes horses. She does things differently to the bigger stables and those points of difference are what a horse like Brazen Breccia often require to unlock their talent,” said Grant Morgan. Brazen Breccia will continue his development in his coming starts as his race distances are increased out to a journey of 1800m. “There is a Class 3 over 1800m at the Gold Coast Metro meeting that we would like to get him into. It's the right time of year for him to progress to a race like that after one more start over the mile. “He looks as though he will get out in trip. He is so clean in the wind, he gives himself the chance to stay a bit. If he can, we will have a bit of fun with him as a lightly raced older horse,” said Grant Morgan. Congratulations to owners: David Worthley, Paul & Karen Davis, Trevor Maddison, Vin Harink, Gordon Henry, Bushs Lane Syndicate Manager: Matt Kennedy, Dennis & Dell Bates, Garry Batchelder, Colin Stacey, Gregg Marks, Peter Spence & Pam Johnston, Trent Bromley, Brian Bailey, Paul Blair, Will Bow, Yvonne Bowen, Alan Jackson, Natasha Mildren, Dan Paton, Ben Schumacher, David Sutherland , Julee Van Steenis & Bebe Mawer. Photos courtesy of Grant Peters - Trackside Slow maturing middle distance prospect Brazen Breccia looked impressive breaking his long overdue maiden at Ipswich. Brazen Breccia has placed on 5 prior occasions from 7 starts before his comfortable maiden win over 1350m. Now prepared by Lauren Abbott, Brazen Breccia was originally prepared by Mick Price in Melbourne before racing under the care of David Vandyke. “This fellow has had plenty of trainers through no real fault of his own. He was actually originally to go to Darren Weir before he was suspended,” said Grant Morgan from OnTrack. “Mick Price took him for us but after 2 Victorian starts he felt he would be better placed in Queensland. Mick is a very good judge and we encourage our Southern trainers to make an early call on horses better suited to Brisbane. “David Vandyke had him going well but he injured himself in that race when he was narrowly beaten at Ipswich over 1666m. Brazen Breccia was transferred to Lauren Abbott to try and overcome his muscular and hamstring issues, with Vandyke recommending a smaller stable to assist this, as would regular work at Nudgee beach. Abbott appeared to have everything in hand with Brazen Breccia prior to Christmas with a start in the rich Magic Millions maiden in January on the agenda. Unfortunately, he injured himself in the final gallop prior to the race, forcing him back out to the paddock. Jockey Ryan Maloney was the winning pilot on Brazen Breccia at Ipswich. Ryan was familiar with the horse from his 4 starts with David Vandyke. “He’s a big goofy horse who hasn’t been the smartest mentally. This prep he is showing that his brain might be finally catching up with his huge frame,” said Morgan. “Whilst he is by Brazen Beau, he is getting his size and stamina from the female pedigree. When I brought him I always had him pegged as a 1600m-2000m horse. I just didn’t think he would take as long as he has. “He’s a big boy, he isn’t the typical type of yearling I buy. But he was a huge walker and an athletic yearling for a big horse,” said Morgan. Congratulations to owners: David Worthley, Paul & Karen Davis, Trevor Maddison, Vin Harink, Gordon Henry, Bushs Lane Syndicate Manager: Matt Kennedy, Dennis & Dell Bates, Garry Batchelder, Colin Stacey, Gregg Marks, Peter Spence & Pam Johnston, Trent Bromley, Brian Bailey, Paul Blair, Will Bow, Yvonne Bowen, Alan Jackson, Natasha Mildren, Dan Paton, Ben Schumacher, David Sutherland & Julee Van Steenis & Bebe Mawer. Imported galloper Hopeful (FR) made short work of making it to the feature race winners circle in Australia by scoring a dominant win in the Listed Lord Mayors Cup (2000m) at Rosehill. Having just his second start down under, Hopeful (FR) backed up a strong Group 3 first time out by taking the 2000m Rosehill feature in good style for trainer Annabel Neasham and jockey Rachael King. Hopeful (FR) will now head to the $1.2m Q22 (2200m) at Eagle Farm on 11 June 22, a race won last year by his high profile stablemate Zaaki. Hopeful (FR) was secured by OnTrack’s Grant Morgan in conjunction with European agent Stuart Boman of Blandford Bloodstock from the 2021 Arqana Sale of The Arc. A gelded five year-old son of Motivator, Hopeful (FR) is out of the Monsun mare Monst. A Group 3 winner in France, Hopeful (FR) is now the winner of 6 of his 15 starts. He was bred and raced by the Wertheimer family and prepared for them by Chantilly trainer Carlos Laffon-Parias. His five French wins ranged from 1600m to 2400m, all five victories were on tracks rated in the soft range. Congratulations to winning owners: Paul Hope, Malcolm Borger, Hopeful Racing (Mgr Lachlan Edwards), Albert Cid, Tracey Whellan, Dan Paton, Mark Ostermeyer, Wayne Muller, Dennis Bates, Mark Wood, Smudgee Synd (Mgr: Barry Menzies), Dominic Cicciarelli, Glenn Townsend, Andrew Grigg, Neil Evison, Barry Tangitu & OnTrack Hopeful No 1: Peter Bailey, Michael Byrne, Peter Bowman, Ross Guzzo, Julee Vansteenis, Cate Solah, Alan Jackson, Stuart Key, Shane Cassady, Jamie Behl, Craig Beattie, Shannon Browne, David Matthews, Stephen Carroll, Bebe Mawer, Michael Bolam, Ken Stocks & Guthrie Williamson, & OnTrack Hopeful No 2: Chris Howitt, Tim O’Neill, Brett Browne, Matthew Sheppard, Jeremy Dawson, Paul Holloway, Garry Batchelder, Stephen Cross, Michael Wilkinson, Craig Brown & Matthew Dunn. Photos: Steve Hart Promising filly Burning Bell continued on her winning way in testing conditions on the Sunshine Coast poly track. Burning Bell is now the winner of 3 of her 4 starts, earning her connections $103,000 during that period. That prizemoney has been significantly enhanced by her status as a QTIS bonus filly. Purchased for just $38,000 from the 2019 Magic Millions QTIS Sale on the Gold Coast, Burning Bell is a daughter of Black Caviar’s sire, Bel Esprit. Bred in Queensland by top Wariwck nursery Daandine Stud, Burning Bell is a daughter of the stakes winning Sequalo mare Flamenco. Burning Bell missed out on a start in a stakes race during the recent Scone carnival after being balloted. Black type targets may well be put aside for the time being, with the $150,000 Edward Street Brisbane (1200m) at Eagle Farm on 25 June being on the radar now for Burning Bell. Longer term targets are for Burning Bell are likely to centre around the $11.75m Magic Millions Raceday in January 2023. Congratulations to owners: Malcolm Borger, Norm Fowles, Average Joe Racing Synd (Manager: Troy Rowe), Jason & Linda Lelay, Colin & Jenny Watts, Chris Scott, Anne Wade, Darren Turner, Chris Goddard, Damien Chown, Tony Wilson, Denis & Margaret Frew, Trent Purdon, Anthony Bailey, Jenny Ball, Joeline Barnes, Garry Batchelder, Tracey Bliss, Stuart Cadzow, Stephen Carroll, Darren Chiswick, Gary Egan, Tim Gaske, Paul Lewis, Bebe Mawer, Chris Newman, Jason Piddington, Kevan Richiardi, Vic Smythe & Peter Willis. Photos: Grant Peters Trackside Photography Former French galloper Hopeful is likely to target the Lord Mayors Cup at Rosehill prior to embarking on a Queensland Winter Carnival campaign for the Annabel Neasham yard. Hopeful (5yo g Motivator x Monst by Monsun) debuted in Australia last Saturday with an impressive second in the Group 3 Hawkesbury Gold Cup (1600m). The Listed Lord Mayors Cup (2000m) is run at Rosehill on Saturday May 21, the same day as the Group 1 Doomben Cup (2000m). Hopeful holds a nomination for both races but is likely to head to Rosehill to avoid a clash with star stablemate Zaaki who will be shooting for back to back Doomben Cup’s. Hopeful has also been nominated for the $1.2m Q22 (2200m) at Eagle Farm on Saturday 11 June. Hopeful was purchased by Grant Morgan’s OnTrack Thoroughbreds via its UK based agent representative Stuart Boman of Blandford Bloodstock. Boman signed for Hopeful at the Arqana Sale of the Arc in October 2021 for 130,000 euros. Hopeful raced in France on 13 occasions for 5 wins and 4 placings. Winning up to Group 3 level, Hopeful’s wins ranged from a debut victory over 1500m at Deauville, through to a 2400m win at Chantilly. His most recent win before purchase came at Longchamp over 2250m on a Good track on 8 July 21. Prior to his Longchamp win, Hopeful won at Chantilly over 2400m on 6 June 21. Among the defeated brigade on that day was another Australian import Huetor, who was 5 lengths astern of Hopeful. Now trained in Australia by team Snowden, Huetor has been impressive since arriving in Australia having won 3 of his 4 starts down under. Hopeful was among 4 imports secured in late 2021 by the OnTrack/Boman combination from Europe. Sir William Bruce (IRE) (by Galileo) is in training with Tony Gollan at Eagle Farm, Imrahor (GB) (by Kingman) is also being prepared by Annabel Neasham, whilst Without Revenge (GB) (by Muhaarar) is being trained by David Vandyke at the Sunshine Coast. Just over 100 guests enjoyed an afternoon in the beautiful Gold Coast hinterland for one of our popular yearling parades at Fenwick Farm. The parade was MC’d by the voice of Queensland racing Alan Thomas, and our special guest was master trainer David Vandyke. Guests were treated to sumptuous lunch from our friends at the Three Tree Frogs Café at Bundall, whilst Gold Coast KombiKeg provided refreshments including beer by popular local brewer Black Hops. Guests viewed 5 very nice yearlings which are all heading to the David Vandyke Sunshine Coast stables. Among the yearlings are colts by American Pharoah (out of Group 1 winning mare Speak Fondly) and another by boom first season New Zealand sire Almanzor. There are also three outstanding fillies by sires Merchant Navy, Hellbent and Harry Angel. Shares are available in all five yearlings now in both 5% and 1% units, with shares to fit all budgets. Thanks also to Scott Brennan, Amanda & Pete Lowry and all the team at Fenwick Farm for turning the horses out in great order and opening their doors to our clients. We look forward to staging many more events and tours post pandemic, we will keep you posted on upcoming events. Promising three year-old filly Burning Bell made it back to back wins and pocketed another lucrative QTIS bonus when she scored at the Sunshine Coast making it 2 wins from 3 starts. Burning Bell will now be given a let up before being stepped up into stakes company at her next start. She will be targeted towards the Listed Denises Joy Stakes (1100m) at Scone on Saturday 14 May. “It looks the ideal race to head towards now. There isn’t a lot of shorter races with black type for fillies during the Queensland winter so we will have a throw at the stumps at this,” said Grant Morgan from OnTrack. “If she could run third it gets her some quick black type and will help sure up her residual value very early in her career. “The Denises Joy is run at handicap conditions so that suits ideally. It wouldn’t be as attractive if it were run at set weights conditions. “Hopefully she can sneak into the field. We think she is a progressive filly with plenty of potential,” said Morgan. Burning Bell is prepared by Toby and Trent Edmonds, and was well ridden by Ryan Maloney despite the filly running out late when it appeared she caught site of the winning post, at what was her first run at the Sunshine Coast. “She pulled up with some lacerations in behind too so perhaps they may of contributed to her waywardness during the final stages,” said Morgan After just three starts, Burning Bell has banked gross prizemoney of $74,500, thanks in part to the wonderful QTIS bonuses which are particularly lucrative for fillies. She looked a good thing beaten on debut at Ipswich, before demoralising a maiden field a the same track prior to her Sunshine Coast win. Congratulations to winning owners: Malcolm Borger, Norm Fowles, Average Joe Racing Synd (Manager: Troy Rowe), Jason & Linda Lelay, Colin & Jenny Watts, Chris Scott, Anne Wade, Darren Turner, Chris Goddard, Damien Chown, Tony Wilson, Denis & Margaret Frew, Trent Purdon, Anthony Bailey, Jenny Ball, Joeline Barnes, Garry Batchelder, Tracey Bliss, Stuart Cadzow, Stephen Carroll, Darren Chiswick, Gary Egan, Tim Gaske, Paul Lewis, Bebe Mawer, Chris Newman, Jason Piddington, Kevan Richiardi, Vic Smythe & Peter Willis Bel Esprit three year-old Burning Bell looked ultra impressive winning at the Brisbane metro meeting in what was an action packed day at Ipswich. Prepared by Toby and Trent Edmonds, Burning Bell was sent out a warm $1.60 favourite on the strength of a luckless second at the same track and distance on debut in February. Ryan Maloney was set to ride Burning Bell before being ruled out after being dislodged from Sacred Oath in a well publicised incident earlier in the day. Andrew Mallyon stepped in for the ride and gave a polished display to get the filly across from a wide barrier into the box seat, before racing away for a widening 2.8 length margin on the line. “I really like this fillies action. What I liked even more today was the turn of foot she showed. To be any chance of making it to black type level, you have to have turn of foot,” said OnTrack’s Grant Morgan. “She didn’t have any luck on debut and we came her with plenty of confidence off the back of that and her very good work since.” Burning Bell was an inexpensive yearling purchase for Ontrack and what is now a large ownership group. Purchased from the COVID impacted 2020 QTIS Magic Millions Yearling Sale, Burning Bell was secured for just $38,000. Burning Bell is the second foal from the 2yo stakeswinning Sequalo mare Flamenco. Like top sires Written Tycoon and Capitalist, Burning Bell was bred in Queensland by prodigious winner getting farm Daandine Stud at Warwick. Congratulations to winning owners: Malcolm Borger, Norm Fowles, Average Joe Racing Synd (Manager: Troy Rowe), Jason & Linda Lelay, Colin & Jenny Watts, Chris Scott, Anne Wade, Darren Turner, Chris Goddard, Damien Chown, Tony Wilson, Denis & Margaret Frew, Trent Purdon, Anthony Bailey, Jenny Ball, Joeline Barnes, Garry Batchelder, Tracey Bliss, Stuart Cadzow, Stephen Carroll, Darren Chiswick, Gary Egan, Tim Gaske, Paul Lewis, Bebe Mawer, Chris Newman, Jason Piddington, Kevan Richiardi, Vic Smythe & Peter Willis. Photos courtesy of Trackside: www.tracksidephotography.com Developing mare Always On Show continued her progress as a City class middle distance performer with another dominant win at Doomben. Always On Show lined up at Doomben off a tricky 35 day gap between runs, with her last start being a solid effort in much stronger company at the Gold Coast on Magic Millions day in a $500,000 event over 1800m. Perfectly prepared by the Kris Lee’s Gold Coast stable, Always On Show continued her good record at Doomben over the 1600m with 2 wins from as many starts. Always On Show has now won 3 races and placed on 8 occasions from 20 starts, with a further four 4th prize cheques including the Listed Ken Russell Stakes at 2. Bred in New Zealand, Always On Show is a full sister to the well performed Chris Waller prepared mare 6yo Our Intrigue. The winner of 5 races in Australia and New Zealand, Our Intrigue was a narrow second at her most recent start in the Group 2 Matriarch Stakes (2000m) at Flemington in what was clearly a career best rating at start 27. Photos courtesy of Trackside Photography “Always On Show continues to be a work in progress and we feel she is probably another year away from fully developing physically and mentally,” said Ontrack’s Grant Morgan. “I hope she can deliver her peak ratings as an older mare like her full sister Our Intrigue. The pair are very similar in type so hopefully Always On Show can develop into a black type mare as she gets older. “As a Magic Millions graduate we will make sure we keep her heading towards a start on the January raceday. Hopefully next year she can be competitive in a race like the $1m Magic Millions Subzero (2400m),” said Morgan. Always On Show was perfectly ridden by Andrew Mallyon despite drawing wide. Mallyon had Always On Show outside the leader in what looked the ideal position in running. Always On Show was purchased by Grant Morgan at the 2019 Magic Millions National Yearling Sale for $110,000. Consigned at that sale by Mike Fleming’s Bhima Stud, Always On Show was bred in New Zealand by leading farm Haunui Stud from the Monsun mare Forever and Ever. Congratulations to winning owners Congratulations to owners: FTB Syndicate (Manager Paul Holloway), Paul & Karen Davis, Marilyn Searles, Mike Larmer, Kate Kelly, Norm & Ted Land, Babu No 4 (Manager Prof James Dale), The fifthhole Racing (Manager Damien Dwyer), Brad Maltby, Denis McGrorey, Albert Cid, Gary Pratt, Bruce Young, Mark Wood, Dinah Newhouse, Michael Byrne, Gary Batchelder, Brian & Linda Irwin, Carl Fischer, Robert Hill, Glenda Newick, Tim O’Neil & Julee Van Steenis. by Grant Morgan
Today marks an important milestone for the Carbine Club of Queensland with the admission of its first female member in well-known Brisbane racing administrator Mary Collier. I was very pleased to nominate Mary as a member, with the nomination seconded by Gold Coast Turf Club Chairman Brett Cook. Mary Collier is one of the most decorated and knowledgeable female racing administrators in Australia, having been a past Chairman of the Brisbane Turf Club (Doomben), past President of the Queensland Jockeys Association and more recently the Executive General Manager, Racing Queensland. I’ve been fortunate to be a member of the Carbine Club of Queensland for more than 10 years now and have met some wonderful people in Australia and around the world via my membership. The Carbine Club was first formed in Melbourne 1961, with sister clubs formed in New Zealand (1971), New South Wales (1977), Queensland (1981), Tasmania (1982), South Australia (1983), Western Australia (1988), Australian Capital Territory (1989), Papua New Guinea (1990), Hong Kong (1991), South Africa (1996), London (1997), Dubai (2002), Singapore (2010) and Vanautu (2012). The club is named after the amazing thoroughbred Carbine, the winner of 33 races including the 1890 Melbourne Cup. In doing so he set a weight carrying record carrying the equivalent of 66kg, carrying some 24kg more than his nearest rival in record time by more than 21 lengths. The Carbine Club is formed on the basis of fellowship and support of junior sport in various fields through annual fund-raising activities highlighted by the popular Carbine Club lunches which are stages throughout the world. The Carbine Club has strong roots in Thoroughbred Racing, Rugby League, Cricket, AFL and Surf Lifesaving. After navigating the various 'COVID' landmines during 2021, it was with welcome relief and anticipation that we were able to stage our second Hunter Valley Horse & Wine Tour for the year.
Our 12 guests have been mostly forced to postpone this visit to the Hunter Valley which we traditionally operate each October. Earlier in the year we also ran an a Hunter Valley Tour in April, with again this group comprising of previously booked guests. The December tour was staged in the normal format of 4 nights, based at the very cosy Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens at Pokolbin. This year the group visited Newgate Farm, Godolphin, Yarraman Park, Vinery and Coolmore, with Kia Ora Stud also making its first appearance on this tour which was first staged in 2014. At this stage of the year we are normally in Hong Kong hosting the Longines International races tour. But this year, the later Hunter Valley Tour enabled us all to get some early inspections done of some yearling headed to the 2022 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale in January. The next OnTrack Hunter Valley Horse & Wine Tour will be held Sunday 27 March – Thursday 31 March 2022 (4 nights), followed by Sunday 9 October – Thursday 13 October 2022 (4 nights) The promising Pascal made it back to back wins at Gosford extending his record to two wins from three starts for Michael, John & Wayne Hawkes. It was fabulous to see part owners Bruce and Judi Gowing at the track yesterday to watch the win and enjoy the post-race celebrations thanks to the very hospitable staff at Gosford. For some reason, the Gosford winning post can prove daunting for many horses. Pascal added his name to that list, shying out on the line under jockey Glyn Schofield. Despite that, Pascal continues to improve with racing and the win signalled back to back wins after he scored a dominant first up maiden win at Newcastle earlier this month. The son of So You Think is still fairly raw in places and has been given plenty of time to mature by very patient owners and trainers. Pascal is the first horse prepared by the family training partnership of Hall of Fame trainer John Hawkes, with sons Michael and Wayne. Team Hawkes operate stables at both Rosehill and Flemington, providing valuable race options for horses in both New South Wales and Victoria. Congratulations to winning owners Ryan Lawlor, Dr David & Sue Worthley, Judi & Bruce Gowing, Mark Ostermeyer, Paddi & Wayne Muller, Dan McHugh, Mike Larmer, Dr Dilip Dhupelia, the estate of the late Lilian Brady, Haymar Racing Syndicate (Mark Horn & Haydn Stjernqvist), Mark Snowden, Tim Henderson, Ken Stocks, Jenny Lawlor, John Barnao and the OnTrack Pascal Syndicate: Dan Sullivan, Robert Hill, Lisa Saxton, Stephen Hurford, Brian Cadusch, Neil Evison, Dan Slater, Brian Irwin, Garry Batchelder, Ian Mathieson, Greg Bennett, Chloe Bennett, Antony White, Alex White, Max Wylie & Alan Jackson. The very good-looking Pascal delivered on his abundant raw potential with a strong first up win at Newcastle. A son of So You Think, Pascal is the first horse prepared for OnTrack by the family training partnership of John, Michael & Wayne Hawkes. Pascal spent his formative months being educated and growing out in New Zealand with Matamata horseman Jacob McKay. He was then landed in Queensland to continue his education with master horseman Greg Bennett at Fenwick Farm. He was sent South to Team Hawkes as a colt before being gelded and winning a jump out at Flemington. Pascal was spelled following a promising third at his only previous appearance at Canterbury over 1250m in April this year. Pascal trialled impressively at Rosehill in late September before his Newcastle victory. “It’s been a gradual process of getting to this stage but there is no point rushing horses that aren’t equipped to fully deliver both mentally and physically,” said OnTrack’s Grant Morgan.. “He has always shown ability and a good action so we have encouraged our owners to be patient and to allow Team Hawkes to give him the time he has needed. “Hopefully this will now start to pay our owners dividends as he continues to mature. “You could see at Newcastle that he is still very raw and a work in progress, but its very encouraging to produce two very strong efforts at his only racetrack appearances,” said Morgan. Pascal was secured by OnTrack’s Grant Morgan at the 2019 New Zealand Bloodstock Sale at Karaka for $200,000 from Beaufort Downs draft. He is a son of the Redoute’s Choice mare Saint Angers who is a three quarter sister to Gonski and Recast and the family of Schubert. Congratulations to winning owners Ryan Lawlor, Dr David & Sue Worthley, Judi & Bruce Gowing, Mark Ostermeyer, Paddi & Wayne Muller, Dan McHugh, Mike Larmer, Dr Dilip Dhupelia, the estate of the late Lilian Brady, Haymar Racing Syndicate (Mark Horn & Haydn Stjernqvist), Mark Snowden, Tim Henderson, Ken Stocks, Jenny Lawlor, John Barnao and the OnTrack Pascal Syndicate: Dan Sullivan, Robert Hill, Lisa Saxton, Stephen Hurford, Brian Cadusch, Neil Evison, Dan Slater, Brian Irwin, Garry Batchelder, Ian Mathieson, Greg Bennett, Chloe Bennett, Antony White, Alex White, Max Wylie & Alan Jackson. Photos courtesy of Newcastle Jockey Club Speedy mare Foxy Rippa was sent to Gatton for a confidence building win by trainer Tony Gollan. The four year-old mare by Foxwedge showed her customary speed despite sustaining a bump for the starting gate when exiting the barriers. Well ridden by talented rider Georgina Cartwright, Foxy Rippa triumphed narrowly to make it her second career victory from 8 starts. Foxy Rippa is a half sister to the multiple stakes winner I’m A Rippa, a winner of more than $1.2m and also prepared by Tony Gollan. Foxy Rippa was secured by Ontrack’s Grant Morgan at the 2019 Magic Millions National Yearling Sale for $100,000 from the draft leading Darling Downs nursery Eureka Stud. Foxy Rippa is out of the winning Seidnazar mare Derippa, who is now the dam of four named foals for four winners. Congratulations to our owners Dennis & Dell Bates, Tracey Wheelan, Maryann Bender, Shari Kubler, Haimes Racing (Jamie Haimes), Smeath Racing (Darren Smeath), Nigel Green, Dr Ailsa Morrison-Galt, Glenn Townsend, Paul Lindstrom, Andrew Wellington, Dr Dilip Dhupelia, Collin Willoughby, Executive Racing Club, Paul Ashley, Stephen Carroll, Jim Conroy, Deslee Davis, Tony Juric, Bebe Mawer, Gavin O’Brien, Sam Politi, Michael Rose & Elizabeth Wilson. Images: Courtesy of Grant Peters Trackside Photography: www.tracksidephotography.com It was a welcome return to Queensland for trainer Chris Meagher and his four year-old charge Brazen Princess when the duo made a welcome return to the winners circle at the Gold Coast. After a recent restructure of operations, Meagher Racing closed its Mornington base in Victoria to concentrate on their Eagle Farm stable. Trainer Chris Meagher emerged from Quarantine last week before making a re-appearance at the track to saddle up Brazen Princess. “It’s been a challenging time for Chris and the family with COVID reeking havoc on the two state operation during the past two years. Logistically it has been almost impossible,” said Grant Morgan. “Added to that, John Meagher has taken a step back from training and hasn’t enjoyed the best of health in recent times.” “I have no doubt Chris and his team will regain a strong position here in Queensland with a more boutique operation. “We look forward to bolstering our numbers with the stable in the new year and we will continue to support the stable strongly,” said Morgan. The OnTrack/Meagher combination has enjoyed a strong strike rate in terms of black type performers over a long period since the families return from Singapore. They include multiple Group 2 winner Savanna Amour, as well as stakes performers Harada Bay, Cruising Speed and Arctic Shock. Brazen Princess was partnered by Noel Callow, who enjoyed good success for Team Meagher in Singapore. Special mention to ‘Smudgee’ Syndicate members Barry Menzies and Peter Miles who made the 11 hour drive from Mackay to witness the win. The Smudgee Syndicate was formed by the late Stu Smith, a wonderful supporter and friend of OnTrack until his passing. Congratulations to winning owners Bill & Glenys Knobel, Vin Harink, Mark Zeller, Geoffrey & Lesley Moar, David Worthley, FRF Racing (Manager David Fitzpatrick), Petar Ivanovski, Smudgee Syndicate, Joe Oltvanyi, Gerald & Antoinette Pacholec & Meagher Racing Syndicate. Images: Courtesy of Grant Peters Trackside Photography: www.tracksidephotography.com Sir William Bruce, a regally bred three year-old son of the great Galileo, has been purchased by OnTrack at this week’s Tattersall’s August Horses in Training Sale at Newmarket. Sir William Bruce was secured for OnTrack by Stuart Boman of Blandford Bloodstock, the man responsible for purchasing boom imported galloper Zaaki from the same ring last year. “Stuart was very enthusiastic about Sir William Bruce after he inspected him. He said you would have to go a long way to find a nicer type of horse, particularly at a horses in training sale. “Most importantly, he vetted out tremendously well. We feel we have all the framework there to develop him into a very nice middle distance prospect in Queensland to initially target the Winter carnival. “We think he represented tremendous value at 90,000 guineas," said Grant Morgan. Underbidder on Sir William Bruce was Hubie De Burgh, who was acting for Sydney based syndicators Darby Racing. “They aren’t making any more by Galileo who has been dominant with his mature European imports in Australia in the older middle distance ranks,” said Morgan. After spending the next 6 weeks in quarantine, Sir William Bruce will fly to Australia before beginning his next campaign under reigning champion Queensland trainer Tony Gollan from his Eagle Farm stables.
Sir William Bruce is out of the Danehill mare Chanting and is a full brother to stakes winners Easter Lily and Circling. The Galileo x Danehill cross is responsible for champion gallopers Frankel, Highland Reel and Japan. No less than 16 individual Group 1 winner have come from the Galileo x Danehill cross which bats at an amazing 21% stakes winners to runners ratio. “The due diligence we did on the horse from various sources prior to the sale indicated that he is up to being a Listed class middle distance performer in Australia,” said Morgan. A lightly raced entire with just five starts under his belt, was formerly prepared by champion trainer Aiden O’Brien. Sir William Bruce was an on speed winner at Leopardstown over 2400m under Ryan Moore, after being narrowly beaten over 1600m at his second start at 2. “He will come over as an entire and will remain that way until we get to know him a bit more leaving us with the option of gelding up our sleeve. “He races on speed and likes firm ground. He was sharp enough to lead and just be run down over a mile at his second start,” said Morgan. There are limited ownership opportunities with Sir William Bruce, please complete an expression of interest below. Clever sprinter Tavisan made it a successful entry to Queensland racing with a dominant win at the Sunshine Coast for new trainer Kris Lees. Tavisan was previously prepared in Victoria by Mick Price and Michael Kent Junior. Following an unplaced effort at Rosehill, the Tavistock gelding was sent north to refuel in the paddock during the warm Queensland winter. Tavisan was perfectly placed first up in Class 5 set weights conditions. “It was the right time to bring him to Queensland. Our set weights races are ideal for quality horses like Tavisan to ease their way into racing here,” said Grant Morgan of Ontrack. “This race came up at exactly the right time to give him the chance at a kill first up and get his confidence back. “He is still eligible for one more Class 6 race so we will just have to see if we wait for one of those or if he goes back to open company now,” said Morgan. Kris Lees was selected as Tavisan’s new trainer to take advantage of his dual state operation in Queensland and New South Wales. “He’s a tricky horse to place so we felt that having access to both Queensland and New South Wales with Kris was going to increase our ability to place him in the right races,” said Morgan. In form rider Andrew Mallyon gave a polished display aboard Tavisan continuing his strong combination as first choice rider for the Lees’ Queensland base. Mallyon was also seen to advantage on another recent Ontrack winner in Calcareous, who scored at Grafton for the ex Victorian hoop during the July carnival. Tavisan’s record now stands at $401,427 in prizemoney with 6 wins and 8 placings from 29 starts. His CV includes stakes placings in the Group 2 Australia Stks at Moonee Valley (1200m), Group 2 Danehill Stks (1200m) at Flemington, Group 3 Caulfield Guineas Prelude (1400m) at Caulfield and the Listed Doveton Stks (1000m) at Sandown. Tavisan was purchased as a yearling by Grant Morgan of Ontrack for $135,000 at the 2017 New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale from the Hallmark Stud draft. Congratulations to winning owners Adrian Albrecht, Jim Lagos, Lewis Prince, Eric Newsome, Dr David Worthley, Vin Harink, Mark Snowden, Mark Ostermeyer, Neil Evison, Mark Horn & Haydn Stjernqvist, Lisa Saxton, Bebe Mawer, Executive Racing Club (Manager Jamie Haimes) & S M C Racing (Manager Michael Szkwarek). Photos courtesy of Trackside Photography: www.tracksidephotography.com Prescott still firing at age 73 by Grant Morgan Newmarket training legend Sir Mark Prescott has landed another Group 1 winner with Frankel mare Alphinista capturing the 131st running of the prestigious Longines Grosser Preis von Berlin. The evergreen 73 year-old Prescott recently celebrated the 50 year anniversary of his first winner. His first group 1 winner came with Pivotal in the 1996 Nunthorpe Stakes at York. Sir Mark is a cornerstone feature of the OnTrack Royal Ascot Tour, which is highlighted by a personal tour of Prescott’s historic Heath House Stables at Newmarket. On the most recent OnTrack Royal Ascot tour in 2019, we were also fortunate to have Sir Mark’s company at our memorable feature dinner at the Jockey Club Rooms in Newmarket, with fellow trainers Marco Botti, Stephen Gray (Singapore) and Toby and Trent Edmonds. An amazing raconteur on a wide range of topics, Sir Mark also has a colourful history in coursing and boxing. It is an absolute privilege to be able to spend time with him. Sir Mark’s involvement in the OnTrack tour comes thanks to our European Bloodstock agent contact Stuart Boman of Blandford Bloodstock. Stuart has co-hosted our last two Royal Ascot tours and is currently working to secure two new European imports for our clients to race in Australia. Boman has enjoyed good success in recent times with star import Zaaki. Alphinista’s granddam Albanova was also prepared by Prescott to win the Grosser Preis von Berlin for wealthy Sweedish born owner breeder Kirsten Rausing and her Lanwades Stud at Newmarket. Frankel has now reached 18 individual Group 1 winners, including two in Australia with Hungry Heart (2021 Vinery Stks at Rosehill and ATC Oaks at Randwick) and Converge (2021 JJ Atkins (1600m) at Eagle Farm). Another popular feature of the OnTrack Royal Ascot Tour, is a visit to Juddmonte Farms Banstead Manor Stud at Newmarket, the home of Frankel. The next Ontrack Royal Ascot Tour is planned for June 2023. |
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