Tag: Australian horse racing news

  • Australian Horse Racing Daily Wrap: Australian Cup Final Markets, Tancred Track Update & Friday Best Bets

    Publish Date: March 27, 2026

    Flemington: Australian Cup Final Countdown

    The markets have remained remarkably stable for the Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m), but a late flurry of interest has seen a shift in the minor placings.

    • The Market Leader: Chris Waller’s Birdman ($2.80) remains the clear favourite. After a professional final gallop at Flemington on Tuesday morning, James McDonald is reportedly brimming with confidence. The Irish-bred import is aiming to become the first horse since Cascadian to complete the Peter Young/Australian Cup double.
    • The ” Jenni” Factor: Pride of Jenni ($4.20) has been slightly easy in the market this morning. While she is in peak physical condition, the query remains whether she can sustain her high-velocity lead over the Flemington 2000m against a deeper field than she faced in the All-Star Mile.
    • Cascadian’s Farewell?: The evergreen Cascadian ($9.00) has been the best-backed runner at odds. At ten years of age, he is aiming for a historic third consecutive Australian Cup. Trainer James Cummings noted that the old marvel “thinks he’s a four-year-old” and has thrived since his last-start fourth.

    Rosehill: Tancred Stakes & Vinery Stud Stakes Track Update

    The Rosehill Gardens track staff have been working overtime following minor showers earlier in the week, but the news is positive for punters.

    • Track Rating: Currently a Good (4). With warm and sunny conditions forecast for Sydney today and tomorrow, track manager Shaun Patterson expects the surface to provide a perfect, fast platform for the stayers.
    • Post Impressionist Mission: The William Haggas-trained Post Impressionist ($2.40) is the dominant force in the Group 1 Tancred Stakes (2400m). Haggas has a strike rate in Sydney that is the envy of local trainers, and the booking of Tom Marquand suggests they are here to collect the trophy.
    • Autumn Glow’s 12th Strike: In the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m), the undefeated Autumn Glow ($1.25) has officially passed all vet checks this morning. James McDonald has the chance to extend his newly-minted Group 1 record even further aboard the Chris Waller superstar.

    Industry News: New Welfare Protocols in Victoria

    Racing Victoria has officially announced a new set of enhanced welfare protocols for the upcoming winter season. These include increased mandatory vet checks for all runners in high-prize-money events and a new grants program for retired thoroughbreds. The move has been widely praised by industry stakeholders as a proactive step toward long-term sustainability.

    Friday Best Bets: Canterbury & Cranbourne (Night Racing)

    For those looking to build a bank for tomorrow’s big meetings:

    • Canterbury (NSW): Race 4, No. 2 – Edited. A very progressive three-year-old for the Chris Waller stable who looks perfectly suited by the tight Canterbury circuit and the step up to 1550m.
    • Cranbourne (VIC): Race 6, No. 5 – Manhattan Thunder. This Cindy Alderson-trained sprinter was enormous first-up and should find the lead comfortably from an inside draw under the lights tonight.

  • Australian Horse Racing Daily Wrap: Australian Cup Barrier Draw, Pride of Jenni Tactics & Tancred Stakes Field

    Australian Cup (2000m): Tactics Set Following Barrier Draw

    The final field and barriers for the $3 million Group 1 Australian Cup at Flemington have been released, and the map suggests a tactical battle for the ages.

    • Pride of Jenni (Barrier 7): The “Queen of the Turf” has drawn perfectly for her front-running style. Expect jockey Declan Bates to cross the field early and set a signature high-cruising tempo. She remains a $4.20 second favorite.
    • Birdman (Barrier 3): The Chris Waller-trained favorite ($2.80) has drawn the “coffin” or “golden” gate depending on the early speed. James McDonald will need to ensure the Irish import isn’t buried away when Pride of Jenni ramps up the pressure at the 800m mark.
    • Mr Brightside (Barrier 11): The fan favorite has drawn out wide. Trainer Ben Hayes noted that while the gate isn’t ideal, it gives Craig Williams the options to stay out of the early “fire” and make a sweeping run into the straight.

    Rosehill: Tancred Stakes & Vinery Stud Stakes Fields

    Sydney’s Saturday card is headlined by the staying prowess of the Group 1 Tancred Stakes (2400m) and the three-year-old fillies in the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m).

    • Tancred Stakes: The international raider Post Impressionist has firmed into favouritism following a glowing track report this morning. He will face stiff opposition from the Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott-trained Military Mission, who has been crying out for the 2400m trip.
    • Vinery Stud Stakes: Autumn Glow ($1.25) remains the talk of the town. She officially accepted for the race this morning as she aims for her 12th consecutive victory. If successful, she will move into rare air alongside the greats of the Australian turf.

    Harness Racing: Melton Entertainment Park Awards

    Closer to home in Melton, the industry is still buzzing following the 2025 Victorian Harness Racing Awards. The sensation Keayang Zahara was the big winner of the night, taking out Horse of the Year honors. This follows her unbeaten run through the Victorian and NSW Oaks, cementing her status as a generational talent.

    Industry News: Track Rating Update

    • Flemington: Currently a Good (4). With Melbourne experiencing a dry spell, officials expect a firm, fast surface that will reward horses with high-end cruising speed.
    • Rosehill: Currently a Soft (5). The track has recovered well from last week’s rain, and with clear skies forecast through Friday, an upgrade to a Good (4) is highly likely by race morning.

  • Australian Horse Racing Daily Wrap: Australian Cup Final Rankings, Pride of Jenni Update & Tancred Stakes Lead-ups

    Publish Date: March 24, 2026

    Australian Cup (2000m): Birdman vs. The Queen

    The final field for the Group 1 Australian Cup is taking shape, and it’s looking like a two-horse war according to the early markets.

    • Birdman ($2.80): Chris Waller’s Irish import is the clear favourite. After a dominant Peter Young Stakes win, his sectionals suggest he is the one to beat over the Flemington 2000m.
    • Pride of Jenni ($4.20): The reigning Queen of the turf. Trainer Ciaron Maher confirmed she pulled up exceptionally well from her recent gallop. The query remains the 2000m distance at Flemington, but her high-cruising speed is expected to test the stamina of the entire field.
    • The “Value” Play: Cascadian ($9.00). The old marvel is aiming for a historic third consecutive Australian Cup. Despite his age, his closing sectionals in the All-Star Mile suggest he is far from finished.

    Sydney Autumn: Tancred Stakes & Vinery Stud Previews

    While Melbourne has the marquee race, Rosehill Gardens still hosts significant Group 1 action this Saturday with the Tancred Stakes (2400m) and the Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m).

    • Autumn Glow ($1.25): The undefeated mare is the shortest-priced favourite of the weekend. James McDonald will partner her as she attempts to make it 12 from 12 in the Vinery.
    • Military Mission ($6.00): Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott have confirmed this tough stayer for the Tancred. Following a gritty performance in the Ranvet, he is seen as the primary challenger to the international raiders.

    Jockey Updates: Zac Lloyd’s Slipper Aftermath

    Following his clinical ride on Guest House to win the Golden Slipper, Zac Lloyd has seen a massive surge in bookings for The Championships. He has officially been confirmed for several key rides for the Godolphin stable on Day 1 of Randwick (April 4), replacing the suspended Nash Rawiller.

    Industry News: Track Conditions Update

    • Flemington: Currently a Good (4). With warm, dry weather forecast for Melbourne this week, track manager Liam O’Keeffe expects the surface to be a perfect racing platform by Saturday.
    • Rosehill: Currently a Soft (5). Sydney has experienced minor showers over the last 24 hours, but the forecast is for clear skies starting Wednesday, likely leading to an upgrade to the Good range.

  • Australian Horse Racing Daily Wrap: Slipper Fallout, Australian Cup Odds & McDonald’s New Frontier

    Publish Date: March 23, 2026

    Golden Slipper Aftermath: Guest House to the Sires?

    The Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr-trained Guest House ($11) has pulled up “enormously” well following his 1.3-length victory in the $5 million Group 1 Golden Slipper.

    • The Path Forward: Connections have indicated that the son of Home Affairs will likely head toward the Group 1 Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) at Randwick on April 4.
    • The Beaten Brigade: Pre-race favourite Chayan was found to be slightly “shinsore” following her 8th-place finish. Trainer Annabel Archibald has confirmed the filly will be sent to the paddock for a well-earned spell, missing the remainder of the autumn.

    James McDonald: 131 and Counting

    After claiming a hat-trick of Group 1s on Saturday (Aeliana, Autumn Boy, and Autumn Glow), James McDonald has officially moved to 131 career elite-level wins—two clear of the legendary Damien Oliver.

    The “J-Mac” juggernaut shows no signs of slowing down. He is booked for a full suite of rides at Randwick this weekend, including the ride on Autumn Glow as she looks to extend her unbeaten streak to 12 in the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m). Analysts are already speculating if she can clean sweep the Triple Crown for fillies.

    Flemington Focus: The Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m)

    All eyes return to Melbourne this Saturday for the $3 million Australian Cup at Flemington.

    • The Market Leader: Following the weekend’s results, Birdman has firmed into $3.00 favouritism. Chris Waller’s import has been the best-backed runner since his dominant Peter Young Stakes win.
    • The Challenger: Champion mare Pride of Jenni ($4.50) is the primary threat. Trainer Ciaron Maher confirmed she completed a “sensational” piece of work at Cranbourne this morning and is primed for the 2000m test.
    • The “Weight” Factor: Handicappers are noting that Buckaroo ($6.00) meets several rivals better at the weights under the Weight-For-Age conditions compared to previous handicap encounters.

    Industry News: Record Wagering Turnover

    Racing NSW and Racing Victoria have reported preliminary wagering figures for Saturday, showing a 7.2% year-on-year increase in total turnover. Despite cost-of-living pressures, the “Super Saturday” format—pitting five Sydney Group 1s against the William Reid in Melbourne—continues to drive massive engagement from the punting public.

    Monday Best Bets: Mornington & Queanbeyan

    For those looking for a midweek fill-up, today’s provincial meetings offer some sharp opportunities:

    • Mornington (VIC): Race 5, No. 2 – Brazen Style. Drops back in grade significantly and has an excellent second-up record.
    • Queanbeyan (NSW): Race 3, No. 1 – Field Of Myrtle. Was unlucky not to score at Goulburn last start; maps to lead and dictate here.

  • Australian Horse Racing Daily Wrap: Golden Slipper Day, William Reid Stakes & J-Mac’s Record Chase

    Rosehill Gardens: The Golden Slipper & “Super Saturday”

    70th Running of the TAB Golden Slipper (1200m)

    A capacity field of 16 top-tier two-year-olds will face the starter at 4:35 pm (AEDT) for the world’s richest juvenile race. The market remains incredibly tight, reflecting one of the most open Slippers in recent memory.

    • The Favourite: The Annabel and Rob Archibald-trained filly Chayan continues to hold favouritism (around $5.00 – $6.50). She is attempting to become the first filly to complete the Reisling Stakes/Golden Slipper double since Estijaab in 2018. She will have to overcome barrier 12 with Craig Williams in the saddle.
    • The Challengers: There is immense depth in this field. Guest House ($11.00), trained by Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr, is a major talking point after suffering severe interference in the Blue Diamond; he draws much better today in gate 10. Fireball, trained by Chris Waller and ridden by James McDonald, has drawn perfectly in barrier 7 and maps to get a dream run.
    • Barrier Casualties: Bjorn Baker’s highly rated colts Warwoven (barrier 14) and Paradoxium (barrier 18) face monumental tasks from the outside alleys, forcing jockeys Rachel King and Jason Collett into tactical dilemmas early in the 1200m dash.

    James McDonald Chases Australasian History

    Champion jockey James McDonald requires just two more Group 1 victories to break Damien Oliver’s all-time Australasian Group 1 riding record. With five elite-level rides today, history is highly likely to be made at Rosehill.

    His premier mount is the Chris Waller-trained superstar mare Autumn Glow, who is the prohibitive $1.30 favourite in the Group 1 George Ryder Stakes (1500m). She is aiming for an incredible 11th consecutive victory. McDonald also rides the heavily favoured Aeliana in the Ranvet Stakes (2000m), giving him an excellent chance to seal the record early in the afternoon.

    Rosehill Guineas (2000m): The Heavyweights Clash

    The staying three-year-olds face off in a highly anticipated contest. Observer ($3.60), the dominant winner of the Australian Guineas and VRC Derby, makes his Sydney debut for Ciaron Maher. He faces a stiff challenge from Chris Waller’s Autumn Boy, who steps up to 2000m for the first time following game placings in the Hobartville and Randwick Guineas.

    Caulfield: The Ladbrokes William Reid Stakes (1200m)

    Due to the $3 billion redevelopment at Moonee Valley, the Group 1 William Reid Stakes has been relocated to Caulfield this year, changing the dynamic of the historic weight-for-age sprint.

    • Jimmysstar the Clear Top Pick: The Ciaron Maher-trained Jimmysstar is the dominant $2.25 favourite. He already boasts a Group 1 win at this track and distance (the C.F. Orr Stakes in February). However, tactically, he faces a hurdle: he has drawn Barrier 1 with Mark Zahra aboard. As a horse that typically settles back, Zahra will need to find clear air at the right time.
    • The Speed Element: Jigsaw ($7.00) brings a five-race winning streak into the event, including a dominant 3.5-length win in the VOBIS Gold Sprint carrying 61kg. Dropping to 58.5kg today, he will undoubtedly cross from barrier 11 to set a frantic tempo.
    • Other Contenders: The Chris Waller-trained Angel Capital looks to improve off a sharp third in the Newmarket Handicap, while the undefeated-this-prep Baraqiel shapes as a legitimate danger.

    Official Track Conditions (As of Saturday Morning)

    • Rosehill Gardens: Currently rated a Good (4). The rail is out 2 metres for the entire circuit. The weather is overcast, and officials are monitoring the skies, but the track is currently presenting perfectly for elite racing.
    • Caulfield: Currently rated a Soft (6). The rail is in the True position for the entire circuit. Punters should keep an eye on early races to see if the track plays favourably to front-runners or those swooping down the outside.

  • Australian Horse Racing Daily Wrap: Slipper Showdown, Jimmysstar at Caulfield & J-Mac’s Historic Chase

    Rosehill Gardens: The Golden Slipper & A Date With History

    Chayan Holds Firm in Wide-Open Slipper

    The field of 16 is locked in for the Group 1 TAB Golden Slipper (1200m), and it shapes as one of the most tactical editions in recent memory. The Annabel and Rob Archibald-trained filly Chayan remains the $4.80-$5.50 favourite depending on the bookmaker. Despite drawing awkwardly in barrier 12, her dominant Reisling Stakes victory has convinced punters she has the class to overcome the wide gate with Craig Williams in the saddle.

    The speed map suggests a frantic early pace, which could play into the hands of the backmarkers.

    • Warwoven ($8.00), trained by Bjorn Baker, was dealt a massive blow at the barrier draw, drawing out in the carpark. Jockey Rachel King will be aiming to become the first female rider to win the Slipper but faces a monumental task from out wide.
    • Pembrey enters the race on the quick back-up after a front-running victory in last weekend’s Magic Night Stakes, though speed analysts note the overall time was slightly below the historical average for Slipper winners.

    James McDonald Eyes Australasian Group 1 Record

    History beckons for Sydney’s nine-time premiership champion jockey, James McDonald. “J-Mac” enters tomorrow requiring just two more Group 1 victories to break the all-time Australasian Group 1 riding record. With five elite-level races on the Rosehill card, he has a prime opportunity to rewrite the history books.

    His elite book of rides includes:

    • Autumn Glow ($1.25): The rising superstar of Australian racing. Chris Waller’s undefeated wonder mare is aiming for her 11th consecutive victory in the $1 million George Ryder Stakes (1500m).
    • Aeliana ($1.70): McDonald’s first chance to strike on the card, riding the hot favourite in the Ranvet Stakes (2000m).
    • Autumn Boy: He will partner with Autumn Boy in a highly anticipated match race against the Ciaron Maher-trained Observer in the Sky Racing Rosehill Guineas (2000m).

    Caulfield: William Reid Stakes & Australian Cup Pointers

    With Moonee Valley undergoing renovations, the Group 1 Ladbrokes William Reid Stakes (1200m) takes centre stage at Caulfield this Saturday.

    Jimmysstar the Dominant Force

    The Ciaron Maher-trained boom sprinter Jimmysstar has opened as the heavy odds-on favourite ($1.90-$2.25). The triple Group 1 victor boasts an exceptional record at Caulfield (five wins from six starts) and won the C.F. Orr Stakes at the track earlier this preparation.

    A massive push for punters is the booking of elite jockey Mark Zahra. Zahra reportedly turned down premium Group 1 rides in Sydney—including the mount on Observer in the Rosehill Guineas—to stay in Melbourne specifically to ride Jimmysstar.

    His main challengers include:

    • Jigsaw ($6.50): The Cindy Alderson-trained front-runner is in the form of his life, having won his past five starts including the Railway in NZ and a 3.5-length demolition in the VOBIS Gold Sprint carrying 61kg. He drops to 58.5kg at Weight-For-Age.
    • Tropicus ($6.50): The Anthony & Sam Freedman-trained entire is coming off a career-peak victory in the Group 1 Oakleigh Plate.
    • Charm Stone ($18.00): The dual Group 1 winner (Sangster, Manikato) represents excellent value, as she is one of the few horses to have ever beaten Jimmysstar.

    Birdman Soars into Australian Cup Favouritism

    Looking ahead to the Flemington feature on March 28, Chris Waller’s Irish-bred import Birdman has leapt into outright favouritism ($3.30) for the Group 1 TAB Australian Cup (2000m).

    Birdman enhanced his credentials with a dominant 1.75-length victory over Apulia in the traditional lead-up, the Group 2 Peter Young Stakes (1800m). Jockey Ben Melham, who is chasing another Australian Cup victory, praised the horse’s relaxed nature and noted he has fully acclimatised to Australian racing conditions.

    Industry Emotion: Big Wigs Honours The Diva

    In a touching moment for the Australian turf, the famous Tony Santic silks—synonymous with the legendary three-time Melbourne Cup winner Makybe Diva—were carried to victory recently by the talented colt Big Wigs in the $1 million VOBIS Platinum Showdown at Caulfield. The victory comes shortly after the racing community mourned the passing of Makybe Diva, adding a highly emotional chapter to the autumn carnival.

  • Australian Horse Racing Daily Wrap: Slipper Barriers Set, J-Mac Chases History & William Reid Field Finalized

    Rosehill Super Saturday: Golden Slipper & History Chasing

    Golden Slipper Barriers: Wide Gates for Key Contenders

    The final field of 16 has been declared for the 70th running of the $5 million Group 1 TAB Golden Slipper (1200m), and Tuesday’s barrier draw has dramatically reshaped the market for the world’s richest two-year-old race.

    • The Favourite: The Annabel and Rob Archibald-trained filly Chayan remains the outright favorite at around $4.80 to $5.00. Despite drawing awkwardly in barrier 12, her dominant Reisling Stakes victory has kept her firmly at the top of betting boards.
    • Baker Duo Dealt a Blow: Trainer Bjorn Baker’s top chances have been handed nightmare draws. Pago Pago Stakes winner Warwoven ($7.00) will have to overcome barrier 18, while stablemate Paradoxium ($7.50) drew barrier 14, easing slightly in the market.
    • Waller’s Trio: Champion trainer Chris Waller has three runners engaged. Campione D’Italia (Skyline Stakes winner) provides the “wow factor,” while Fireball looks to be a major threat after drawing perfectly in barrier 7. Hidrix, who will have Kerrin McEvoy aboard, rounds out the trio.
    • Lindsay Park Squeeze: The Hayes brothers (Ben, Will, and JD) faced a nervous wait this week. After the ballot-free exemptions handed out last weekend, their stakes-winning fillies Medicinal and Gin Twist were shuffled down the order of entry, sitting precariously outside the final 16 and sweating on scratchings.

    James McDonald Eyes Australasian Record

    History beckons at Rosehill Gardens this Saturday for Sydney’s nine-time premiership champion jockey, James McDonald.

    McDonald needs just two more Group 1 victories to break the all-time Australasian Group 1 riding record. With five Group 1 races on the Rosehill card, “J-Mac” has a prime opportunity to rewrite the history books. His elite book of rides is headlined by Chris Waller’s undefeated wonder mare Autumn Glow, who is aiming for her 11th consecutive victory in the $1 million Group 1 George Ryder Stakes (1500m). If she is in top condition, rival trainers are already conceding they are racing for second place.

    Melbourne Action: William Reid Stakes at Caulfield

    Due to the ongoing redevelopment works at Moonee Valley, the Group 1 William Reid Stakes (1200m) will be staged at Caulfield this Saturday.

    • Jimmysstar Drawn Inside: The boom sprinter and three-time Group 1 winner Jimmysstar has opened as the heavy favorite (around $2.30). However, he has drawn barrier 1. Because his racing pattern often requires him to settle back in the field, jockey steering and finding gaps will be crucial for the short-priced favorite.
    • The Challengers: Angel Capital (barrier 6) shapes as a major threat with Jye McNeil booked for the ride, coming off a strong third in the Newmarket Handicap. Meanwhile, the airborne Jigsaw (barrier 11) is on a 7-day back-up following his dominant VOBIS Gold Sprint win and is expected to set a blistering tempo out in front.
    • The Roughie: Racelab data and track analysts are pointing toward Charm Stone (barrier 3) as a major knockout hope. The dual Group 1 winner boasts an exceptional first-up record and won the Manikato Stakes in the Spring.

    Industry News & Wagering Updates

    AUSTRAC Cash Crackdown Begins

    Australian punters need to be aware of new anti-money-laundering laws coming into effect at the end of March. AUSTRAC is enforcing a strict $5,000 limit on unreported cash bets. Anyone wishing to place cash bets of $5,000 or more at on-track venues or retail outlets will now be strictly required to produce photo identification.

    John O’Shea to Appeal Ban

    Leading Sydney trainer John O’Shea has vowed to fight a recently issued four-month disqualification. Racing NSW stewards handed down the ban relating to conduct charges, and O’Shea is actively preparing an appeal process.

  • Australian Horse Racing Daily Wrap: Slipper Field Set, Jimmysstar Odds-On & Australian Cup Contenders

    Group 1 Radar: Golden Slipper & William Reid Stakes

    Chayan the Clear Standout for the Golden Slipper

    All eyes are on Rosehill Gardens this Saturday for the 70th running of the $5 million Group 1 Golden Slipper (1200m). Following Tuesday’s crucial barrier draw, the Annabel and Rob Archibald-trained filly Chayan has firmed as the outright favorite.

    Despite drawing wide in barrier 12, early betting has her at the top of the market (around $5.00). She brings impeccable form into the race, coming off a dominant victory in the Group 2 Reisling Stakes. Champion jockey Craig Williams is booked for the ride.

    Her main dangers appear to be the Bjorn Baker-trained pair:

    • Warwoven ($7.00): Guaranteed his spot with a tough win in the Pago Pago Stakes last weekend. Rachel King retains the ride, though he will have to overcome a difficult gate in barrier 18.
    • Paradoxium ($8.00): Drawn slightly better in barrier 14 with Jason Collett taking the reins.
    • Also looming large is Streisand, the tough Clinton McDonald-trained filly who claimed the Blue Diamond Stakes.

    Jimmysstar Boom Continues in the William Reid Stakes

    Looking ahead to Saturday at Caulfield, the Group 1 William Reid Stakes (1200m) is shaping up to be a thriller. The boom sprinter Jimmysstar, trained by Ciaron Maher, has opened as the heavy odds-on favorite (approximately $1.90) in early betting markets.

    Returning after a stellar spring campaign that included a third in The Everest and wins in the Russell Balding and C F Orr Stakes, he is the clear horse to beat. His main opposition includes the Yulong stallion prospect Angel Capital ($6.00) and Jigsaw ($8.00), who comes off a dominant 3.5-length front-running display in the Vobis Gold Sprint.

    Australian Cup Fallout & Future Targets

    Melbourne’s focus is quickly shifting toward the Group 1 TAB Australian Cup (2000m) at Flemington on March 28.

    • Birdman Soars into Calculations: Chris Waller’s progressive Irish-bred stayer, Birdman, has rocketed into Australian Cup favoritism following an imposing 1.75-length win in the Group 2 Peter Young Stakes at Caulfield. Jockey Ben Melham, who won back-to-back Australian Cups on Cascadian (2023, 2024), was full of praise for the gelding, noting that the 2000m at Flemington will suit him perfectly.
    • Pride of Jenni on Track: Ciaron Maher’s superstar mare Pride Of Jenni is officially on track for her own Australian Cup tilt. She turned heads with a very strong Tuesday morning gallop at Caulfield and is set to clash with Birdman in what promises to be a race for the ages.

    These developments follow an incredible Super Saturday last weekend, which saw the Godolphin galloper Tom Kitten write himself into the history books by going back-to-back to win the All-Star Mile.

    Industry News: Remembering Makybe Diva & Coetzee Goes Solo

    Vale Makybe Diva (1999 – 2026)

    The Australian racing community is in mourning this week following the sudden passing of iconic champion Makybe Diva at the age of 27 following a short battle with colic. The legendary mare remains the only horse in history to win the Melbourne Cup three times (2003, 2004, 2005). Tributes continue to flow for the horse who famously “stopped a nation” three years running.

    Jarred Coetzee Launches Training Career

    In Queensland, highly respected horseman Jarred Coetzee has officially branched out to launch his own racing team. After serving as the second-in-charge at Robert Heathcote’s Eagle Farm barn (working with stars like Rothfire and Abounding), the 39-year-old has secured boxes at Lawrie Mayfield-Smith’s stables. He saddles up his first runner, the gelding Gas Brigade, in a 1666m Maiden at Ipswich this Friday.

    Midweek Racing Pointers: Wednesday, March 18

    For those looking at today’s midweek action, a unique angle presents itself in the Adelaide Hills:

    • Oakbank (SA): The iconic Oakbank Racecourse hosts a tight 5-race card today. When assessing the form on this undulating track, jockey Campbell Rawiller is an absolute standout. He currently boasts an elite 29.41% winning strike rate at Oakbank (5 wins from 17 rides). Punters should closely monitor any of his mounts today, as navigating the steady incline of the home straight requires specialized tactical precision.