TURFSTARS m e d i a: Blog

Here We Go Again....

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Thu, 17 Jan 2019 06:25:34 GMT

The Queen is back.

What a remarkable thoroughbred WINX is. Her constitution is beyond belief, especially in the twilight of her career - she returns to us in brilliant condition, her coat gleams without a race start under her belt . A true testament to the dedication, love and hard work from Umut and Candice, Waller team in general who work with her and the staff where she spells. As trainer Chris and owners have often said, she is a day by day proposition, and even though a plan is mapped out for her swansong this Autumn Carnival, its not a given.

I've had the privilege on seeing her many times now in barrier trials and early morning track gallops... and she looks just as good as she ever has. A happy, content horse who LOVES her job !

I took these few photos on Tuesday at her first barrier trial for 2019 at Rosehill Gardens. Enjoy !

** No unauthorised use without consent ** Images not to be copied and re-used without permission.

The Journey Continues for the WORLD NUMBER 1......

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Mon, 06 Aug 2018 07:50:57 GMT

WINX. She's in the twilight of her career, every time she steps onto the racetrack is something to be treasured now. It's just an honour and privilege to have photographed her all these years from start 3 and to be sharing it with all of you, especially those here and abroad that can't get to the track to see her in person.

Enjoy a few exclusive images here before her exhibition gallop at Randwick on Saturday. She never ceases to amaze me how content and happy a horse she is to be back doing what she loves with all her special people around.

So whatever the future holds...we just want to see her a little bit longer...... atleast for her very own ' Group 1 WINX Stakes ' on August 18.

The QUEEN

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 04:00:13 GMT

When it comes to her, these days there is not a lot left to say, all the superlative words have already been said.....

So as pictures do, I'll let them tell the story here when the mighty WINX goes through her paces in an exhibition Gallop on Day 1 of The Championships April 7. Truly memorable scenes from the racecourse crowd just in awe prior to her gallop ( and this is just an exhibition gallop) !! Like most people, I have to pinch myself that I'm there witnessing history, and to visually document her up close and personal is truly a dream. I will photograph her in a race for the 29th time tomorrow, we go way back to start 3 !

Enjoy !

You can view the complete GALLERY here > http://lisagrimm.zenfolio.com/p217818237

Happy Racing 🏇🏼

L 😀

SPECIAL K

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Wed, 28 Mar 2018 04:18:22 GMT

Already in his short career at the races , this stunning son of the great Lonhro continues to turn heads not just in the looks department but his untapped talent on the racetrack. From the early days, Godolphin had high opinions of the colt from his beginnings at Crown Lodge and Osborne Park in trackwork and trials.

KEMENTARI is now also known as " Special K " around the traps, hence the big opinion the experts, trainer James Cummings and his team have of him. The first time I photographed him was early September last year in the Run to The Rose where he finished 4th to Menari. He then up the anti with a 3rd in the Guineas Prelude at Caulfield followed by a brave 2nd by 0.3 of a length in the Caulfield Guineas at Group 1 level. It was only a matter of time before he would crack a Group 1 of his own. This year the start of his Autumn prep, the colt has gone to the next level winning the Group 3 Eskimo Prince Stakes, followed by the Group 2 Hobartville Stakes, where I think from this point everyone sat up and took notice ! Next was the Group 1 Randwick Guineas, which he won in brilliant fashion. His future and value secured and assured.

I couldn't be more proud of his effort in his next race the Group 1 George Ryder Stakes that was run last Saturday ! As the 3 year old in the race he was to take on the older seasoned campaigners, usually a tough ask - that being dual Group 1 winner Happy Clapper and the queen, Winx. A big task but in the end a brave 3rd, not too far away from these two stars. The run I thought was exceptional considering, which puts him in good stead for the future. His next start is the time honoured Doncaster Handicap over the famous Randwick Mile, he will be there in the finish I'm sure of it with luck in running. 3 year olds have a nice record in the race with no weight. He's in it up to his ears.

I took these shots as he arrived on course last Saturday, timed well as I was already at the stalls to get WInx. Where ever he goes my lens will find him...... and when I do it goes into over drive....you can see why !!!

L 💙

KEMENTARI

KEMENTARI KEMENTARI KEMENTARI KEMENTARI KEMENTARI

Who Doesn't LOVE a Grey !

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 01:46:59 GMT

Since the running of the 2018 Hobartville Stakes last week, I've had a few requests for some images of this talented fellow. His name D"ARGENTO.

He is by the champion (and best looking racehorse I have ever seen) SO YOU THINK x Fullazz.

A Gold Coast Magic Millions purchase by Star Thoroughbreds for $135k he has already won that back and more in prizemoney $208k in just 4 starts. The future looks really bright for him, no doubt another potentially big talent from the Chris Waller stable.

After his fast finishing 3rd in the Hobartville he continues on this prep into the Group 1 Randwick Guineas. A possible Doncaster tilt is an option, hence the opinion the stable has on him.

He was being a bit of a goose on the way to the barriers last week, cantering shots not the best, perhaps next time he can keep that tongue in !

D'ARGENTO D'ARGENTO D'ARGENTO D'ARGENTO D'ARGENTO D'ARGENTO

Early mornings with WINX

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 09:57:05 GMT

February 9, 2017

2 days before Winx's much anticipated return to the racetrack Saturday in the Group 2 Apollo Stakes. She had a track gallop with her stablemate Antonio Guiseppe before a group of media in attendance. A sight to behold, the gallop was effortless. Such a beautifully relaxed professional mare...bring on her Autumn campaign !

The conditions today were much darker compared to last Spring's gallop before resuming. It's difficult to get the perfect shots in extreme low light. Nonetheless it was fantastic for everyone on hand just to see her.

WINXTrackwork February 9, 2017 WINXTrackwork February 9, 2017 WINXTrackwork February 9, 2017 WINXTrackwork February 9, 2017 WINXTrackwork February 9, 2017 WINXTrackwork February 9, 2017 WINXTrackwork February 9, 2017 WINXTrackwork February 9, 2017 WINXTrackwork February 9, 2017 WINXTrackwork February 9, 2017 WINXTrackwork February 9, 2017

STAR Babies

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Fri, 16 May 2014 04:51:39 GMT

I had the pleasure of attending and photographing STAR THOROUGHBREDS annual yearling parade this year. It's the start of a new partnership between Star and Chris Waller and what great sorts these youngsters are ! They all handled themselves beautifully for their first official parade.

The sun was shining and a fabulous day was had by all. To express your interest and to enquire about current availability and shares contact the team at Star Thoroughbreds. Look forward to photographing them again when they are officially named and hit the racetracks !

We'll start with the COLTS

Big Brown - Meriwether COLT

Casino Prince - Forbetterforworse COLT

High Chapparal - Bella Princess COLT

Hinchinbrook - Skyescent COLT

Not A Single Doubt - Belzain COLT

Snitzel - Gallant Miss COLT

Star Witness - Sparkling Now COLT

Now for the fillies !

Big Brown - Magic Music Filly

Denman - Dazzerdame Filly

Northern Meteor - Social Glow FILLY

Rothesay - Zalila FILLY

Sebring - Soothe FILLY

www.starthoroughbreds.com.au

Fabulous Fiorente

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Wed, 16 Apr 2014 10:38:22 GMT

It's never nice to see a racehorse, let alone a champion one cut down in their prime especially through injury. That was the case last week with the announcement of Fiorente's retirement. The Monsun entire pulled up sore after the running of the BMW where he still in hindsight managed a gallant 3rd. Scans were taken at the Randwick equine centre which revealed damage to his near fore tendon. Yes it's disappointing of the fact that we won't see him on the racetrack again but we can appreciate the enormity of his achievements now and look back on them. Not just wins, but once in a life time wins such as the Melbourne Cup, in doing so he changed the lives of those close to him, a special time that seemed to stand still with the celebrations that followed the great race win. A dream had just come true. “I’d trained three second placegetters in the Melbourne Cup, it was the race I really wanted to win and this horse provided it for me. Fiorente was a dream come true for me,’’ - Gai .

Since the flow of overseas visitors to our shore for the Melbourne Cup it has proven a mammoth task to win the race. So much has to go right - the travel factor alone and aclimatising is the key. It takes a special one out of the box to do it. Fiorente was just that. Remember he was only in the country a week or 2 when he came into the care of Gai to launch his assault in the 2012 Melbourne Cup. He finished a fantastic 2nd in the big race, an extraordinary achievement and I guess we all knew he was something special from that moment on. What could he do when he really settles in here and the future races Gai had mapped out.....well the rest is history. Not a bad resume champ !

FIORENTE

Six-year-old stallion (Monsun/Desert Bloom)

20 starts: Six wins, four seconds, three thirds.

Prizemoney: $6,265,611.

11 starts in Australia when trained by Gai Waterhouse

Four wins

2013 Melbourne Cup, Dato Tan Chin Nam Stakes.

2014 Australian Cup, Peter Young Stakes

One second

2012 Melbourne Cup

Three thirds

2013 Cox Plate, All Aged Stakes,

2014 BMW

The champ retires in one piece, healthy and happy. Here's to your progeny of the future, some little superstars to follow in dad's footsteps I'm sure, even a Melbourne Cup winner one day, who knows !

Enjoy the Fiorente snapshots - just a scratch of the many images I have taken. What a highlight in my career to have photographed him and of course sharing the wonderful post celebrations with "The Cup". 2013 will be a year to remember !

Being well behaved for the TV Crews prior to the Cox Plate !

After an exhibition gallop at Warwick Farm

Cox Plate Day !

Swansong day BMW, with Des.

2013 All Aged Stakes

2014 pre Ranvet Stks

Before the epic victory in the Melbourne Cup.

Parading before his last race in the BMW

Looming past a gallant Red Cadeaux in the 2013 Melbourne Cup

Only the best champagne for this gold cup !

Cox Plate Day

2014 BMW

Prior to the BMW just recently. Isn't he handsome !

BMW 2014

Thankyou for the memories FIORENTE x

Texy Boy

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Fri, 04 Apr 2014 03:28:21 GMT

** Postscript...so very proud of you Tex, a huge Group 1 2nd in the 2014 TJ Smith Stakes ! Heavy track and you were closing on Mr Rupee at the finish, super run !!

Hopefully it's a case of he came, saw and conquered ! He's going to be first up into one of the most anticipated races of the Sydney Carnival and the Championships in the Group 1 TJ Smith Stakes. A sprint over 1200m at Royal Randwick. His opposition are going to be hot but like most of them TEX (aka REBEL DANE) is a Group 1 winner too and will be ready to fire on his Sydney carnival debut ! It has been written that he was once an ugly duckling ..... well I wouldn't say that, he is one of the most photogenic horses . I have taken some absolute crackers of him. He knows he is good and exudes charm and flair every time he steps into the mounting yard.

These shots from the gallop do not do him justice however, the light this early in the day was a shocker, I hate it when dark shadows are cast on the horses, you can't see them. Pet hate.

This is his Exhibition Gallop on March 22 at Rosehill Gardens, with jockey Glen Boss making the trip to ride him.

Look forward to seeing you at Randwick very soon young man ! Tex is a stable name derived from his mother Texarcana and sadly his sire California Dane lost his life only recently.

For the DUNDEEL fans

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Tue, 18 Mar 2014 03:33:46 GMT

We are on the verge of Round 1 - the clash of the Autumn Heavyweights. We are heading into the big time of the Sydney carnival now, where horses will stand up and be counted, whether a new champion emerges or a current champion becomes greater ! It's intriguing as it stands now... for the boys it's FIORENTE and ITS A DUNDEEL, the girls RED TRACER and APPEARANCE. Not to mention some pretty serious sprinters all competing for the title of the Australia's fastest horse. And the babies, what an awesome bunch of 2 year olds fighting to win the ultimate prize in the world of 2 year old racing, the Golden Slipper. Who will will take the ultimate crown when the Sydney Carnival comes to a close on Sydney Cup Day ? Hoping all our wonderful thoroughbreds stay happy and sound so they can compete in these races. It's great for racing, to bring new fans to the Sport of Kings.

It starts with the Group 1 Ranvet Stakes at Rosehill Saturday, always one of my favourite races as it's so competitive, the best horses taking their place in the 2000m weight for age event. It will not disappoint. Aside from the most anticipated clash...most of the runners in a Ranvet are capable of winning the race.

For the DUNDEEL fans I promised I would upload these, a series I took of him at the stalls a couple of Saturday's ago. He is CLASSIC. There's no question about it. This little pony knows he is good... some of my all time favourites of him right here ! Thanks Emily for getting in close... even though he tried a little nip or two !

Dundeel

2013 Spring Wrap Up !

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 06:12:35 GMT

2013 had just about everything you could throw at the sport, plenty of highs and lows, on the track and off it. I'm sure it will do down as one of the most eventful racing years for sometime yet. We said goodbye to a national treasure and icon, Nelly, and perhaps the best crop of 3 year old young lads seen on a racetrack for some time . There were plenty of dramas off the track too none more so than the More Joyous affair...... A real shame it had to be played out in the manner it was and not behind closed doors. The worst part was a wonderful champions name had been tarnished because of it . She'll always be one of the great mares to ever grace the Australian turf, and to be associated with her career on and off the track were wonderful times for me. I look forward to MJ's little blueblood born this Spring by Frankel.

We sadly lost some special racing people and horses this past year, nothing amazes me more than the compassion of our "racing family" at trying times like these. Everyone digs deep and gives their ongoing support. There are too many people and horses to mention, as much as I'd love to, I don't want to miss any out of respect.

Black Caviar

That Day

Pierro

All Too Hard

It's A Dundeel

As the Autumn wound to a close and the winter months rolled on, people were starting to talk about the hole that was left after the retirement of these superstars - what would it hold for the Spring of 2013, is there any horse or horses that could fill the void and stand up to the plate, would the Spring be a little flat without them ? As it turned out the Spring Carnival never disappoints, it's a fabulous time of year and the racing battles did continue with the cream rising to the top. How can we not get excited about this lot moving forward into 2014 - Boban, Zoustar, Fiorente, It's A Dundeel & Guelph. Some young guns made their point, Shamus Award the maiden and Chad Schofield winning the Cox Plate, Long John the Guineas, Polanski the Derby, Complacent the Spring Champion. Aside from Guelph, Red Tracer and Streama are always a force to be reckoned with, giving their all in every race they contest . One of the big highlights for me was the amazing Buffering....Mr Triple Group 1 , how deserving were these victories in the shortest space of time. Good things come to those who wait don't they Buff... And Gai won the cup finally with the magnificent staying entire in Fiorente. He is on the lips of all and will be extremely hard to beat this Autumn.

One thing is guaranteed the 2014 Autumn Carnival will live up to all expectations on track, superb racing on show in Melbourne and Sydney with the launch of the "Championships" here in my backyard at Randwick. It can't come quick enough !

Guelph

Fiorente

Zoustar

Buffering

Shamus Award

Red Tracer

Boban

Streama

Polanski

Expressway Stakes day at Randwick this Saturday, a nice classy field will line-up for the Group 2 feature ! Will see you there...if not you can follow my posts on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lisa-Grimm-Photography/30905056621 and Twitter (Turfstars9) https://twitter.com/turfstars9

:-) L

" THE HULK "

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Mon, 21 Oct 2013 01:41:38 GMT

It was announced recently all across social media that HAY LIST, The Hulk, as he was affectionately known to all his fans, will hang up the race plates for good. I've had the privilege to photograph on many occasions part of his journey, race days to exhibition gallops collating hundreds of images. This photograph below is my farewell and last image I took of this courageous warrior as he returned for the final time after the Premier Stakes, Oct 5, 2013.

Hay List2013 Premier Stakes Oct 5, 2013

The alter ego of the "Hulk" was well named, for obvious reasons. He was a tower of a horse, big, masculine, strong. He was all power. No wonder in his prime, he was the best sprinter in the world alongside Black Caviar. Two Australian horses at the top of the sprinting ranks...didn't get any better than that. What a coup for Australian racing on the world stage ! As long as we talk for years to come, even generations to come about Black Caviar, the Hulk will be talked of in the same sentence - those epic duels the two of them had will be etched in the hearts of many. He will go down as the only serious contender to the great mare.

Don't we remember this day in 2011 well (below) Hay List just flying, top speed, as only he knew how. Collectively all of Randwick at this very moment thought Hay List has this, the mare was back, could she reel him in !! He was flat to the boards, nothing and no other horse would have beaten him that day, except a once in a lifetime freak.

His race record is testament to his ability and class - 28-15-6-0 : $2,559,575. His career highlights were : Won G1 Manikato Stakes, 1200m at Moonee Valley, September 24, 2010. Won G1 All Aged Stakes, 1400m at Randwick, April 23, 2011. Won G1 Newmarket Handicap, 1200m at Flemington, March 10, 2012. Add to that 5 Group 1 2nd's ! When he won the Newmarket no horse had carried that weight in 60 years, he made his own history that day and deservedly so, a champion displaying all his courage. Three cheers for Hay List !!

A gelding by Statue of Liberty out of Sing Hallelujah began his career in Western Australia under the care of Jim Taylor. He won his first eight starts in Perth in 2009 before pulling up lame when sixth behind Revolution in the G3 Colonel Reeves Stakes (1100m) at Ascot in November 2009. His owners, the Davenports from Perth then decided to relocate Hay List to Gosford under the care of trainer John McNair and wife Sue.

For me it wasn't necessarily his feats on the track but his courage and will to survive off it that pulls at my heartstrings. He was troubled by setbacks all his career including injuries, hoof & knees, colic , operations & infections which resulted in the champ coming seriously close to losing his life on 3-4 occasions ! His spirit and will to survive those trying and dark days along with the endless loving care of the McNairs during this time is heartfelt and an absolute credit to them to even get him near a racetrack again.

It's not the recent press and his campaign of 2013 that Hay List will be remembered, that's irrelevant. His deeds on the racetrack at the peak of his powers and the courage & resilience to overcome the impossible is what we love him for.

No horse is more deserving of retirement. Thankyou for the wonderful memories buddy, your fan base was huge, we'll all miss you. Let's hope we get to see you again leading out a Group 1 field in the near future, even the Group 1 All Aged Stakes next year at Randwick !

It's impossible for me to filter through endless photos of Hay List, but here are a few of my personal favourites ! Enjoy !

Hay List

Thankyou for all the memories Hulk... there were so many ! May you enjoy relaxation big boy for many years to come !

' Darley's Spring Champion '

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Fri, 18 Oct 2013 04:27:32 GMT

Yes...I'm partial to a dark horse, very partial, they draw me like a magnet. Perhaps it stems from my childhood with Black Beauty and the Black Stallion. There's just something about them that radiates aura & presence ! Lonhro was king of charisma, there was no other in my mind that even came close until of course the magnificent So You Think graced his presence. Even though not black he ticked all those boxes and then some, he was perfection on 4 legs ! Even though not registered as a black horse many are that darker brown they look black. There have been so many gorgeous black horses to name here that I've drooled over from years gone by. Often I find myself in love.... recently with SESSIONS and now COMPLACENT.

From just his 2nd start after winning his maiden at Hawkesbury, Complacent a son of Authorized (IRE) wins his first Group 1 the Spring Champion Stakes, prior to that the Group 3 Gloaming. A raw talent with loads of potential, he hasn't even begun to strut his stuff. His trainer Peter Snowden has big wraps, the best is yet to come. He's had 5 career starts, where his first two were 2nd placings.

I was also happy for jockey Christian Reith....an underrated rider to some but not to his loyal fans, a 2nd Group 1 win he thoroughly deserves !

After the Gloaming win, he was my boy in the Spring Champion, I had winning vibes until the race ! When Christian hit the go button, it was a sight to behold, all over red rover !

2013 EPSOM Day

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Thu, 17 Oct 2013 03:59:02 GMT

Epsom Day rolled around again for another year - always a great day on the Sydney Racing Calendar for a couple of reasons. The time honoured Group 1 Epsom Hcp, like the Doncaster is a hard fought tough mile race run at Royal Randwick. The cream of the crop compete in it. There were so many chances this year, I liked a few runners but my heart was with Streama. As some of you know she is a little favourite of mine, love her guts and will to win . So thrilled for her an her connections after her big Group 1 George Main win 2 weeks earlier and she did not let me down in the Epsom !

One of our perks or not ideal situations when photographing is when the horses are spread apart on the track, especially in the concluding stages of a Group 1 !! Don't know where to look and you just have to make that call, inside or outside ! Most of the time you get it right. Of course I went inside - Streama and her stablemate Toydini were fighting out the finish..or so we thought ! Got those shots then a quick turn to the right when we hear " Here comes Boban " . I still thought in real time Streama had it, but alas she was denied in the tightest of finishes, perhaps an inch. Full credit to the winner BOBAN, what an extraordinary run when watching the replay a couple of times. He ran into trouble a couple of times during the run and was shifted to the back, probably thinking he couldn't win from there. Boban (below) and jockey Glyn Schofield were as cool as you like and went round the field like a breath of fresh air to win in the tightest of photos we've seen in an Epsom for sometime. Certainly had that Randwick crowd tense for a few minutes ! Another group 1 to Waller Racing, the juggernaut rolls on !

BOBAN Epsom Hcp2013 Epsom Day

Boban

BOBAN Epsom Hcp2013 Epsom Day

Streama / Toydini Epsom2013 Epsom Day

Hugh Bowman & Blake Shinn oblivious to Boban flying down the outside

2 feature highlights of Epsom Day are the first 2 year old races of the season, exciting to see all the babies take to the track for their first big day out at the races ! The Gimcrack is for the girls and the Breeders Plate for the boys. The latter has an exceptional record for the winner to be very well placed if not winning the Golden Slipper in the following autumn. Recently Gai has made it her own, Pierro in 2011, with that famous quote " He will win the Golden Slipper " ! To think what this brilliant colt and son of Lonhro went onto achieve is stuff of dreams, now a triple crown winner and no doubt a champion sire of the future standing at Coolmore Stud. Whittington for Star Thoroughbreds in 2012 and again this year Star salute again with the striking colt LAW (below) who is by freshman sire in Denman, he too is sired by the great Lonhro. I LOVE this breed and the progeny and will always follow them close to my heart. Not to mention what cracking looking individuals these horses are !

LAW Breeders Plate2013 Epsom Day

ALPHA MISS (outside) takes out the Gimcrack for the fillies.

Alpha MissGimcrack Stakes

There's a superstar in the making , his name ZOUSTAR (below). Already the Golden Rose champion, everyone was eagerly awaiting the Roman Consul Stakes to see what this boy could do. It was safe to say I guess he would win, but like this, treating his opposition with contempt, wow !! Bring on Melbourne, what an exciting horse, look forward to photographing him once again soon. His value has soared and he is highly prized stallion prospect as I type...who will secure the deal ? Sentimentally, I would love to see him return to where he's gallant father stood at Widden Stud, rip Northern Meteor.

It always is a fabulous day Epsom day but on a day of highs it ended with lows with the Waller team losing their lovely Lucripetous (below), may he now rest peacefully.

Lucripetous

The Group 1 Metropolitan was won by SEVILLE (below) for trainer Robert Hickmott. Another player for team Williams leading into the big staying features of the Spring. It was a good tough win and ridden perfectly by Hugh Bowman. Julienas back to his best with a close 2nd.

One of the most popular grey girls is non other than ARINOSA (below) - she has a little fan club happening and who wouldn't love her, she's amazing and always tries so hard. She lunged that pretty little grey head out on the line to take victory in the Premier Stakes, Group 2. It was a tight finish just a length separating the first 3 or 4 !

ARINOSA Premier Stakes2013 Epsom Day

GUELPH (below), what can you say, the Darley trained filly is taking all before her, she is big and strong now, a ball of strength. A joy to watch winning this the Group 1 Flight Stakes ! Since this post she has gone on to win the Group 1 Thousand Guineas, her 4th Group 1 ! I remember photographing her mother, Camarilla, a group 1 winner in her own right winning the Sires Produce Stks Group 1 in 2007.

GUELPH Flight Stakes2013 Epsom Day

Honorius (below) and James McDonald (inside) took out the Craven Plate.

Honorius2013 Epsom Day

Rock Hero (below) won the Dulcify

Rock Hero2013 Epsom Day

Rock Hero

Stay tuned for " THE HULK " my tribute to the wonderful Hay List ! Until next time , L

George Main Stakes Day 2013

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 04:51:31 GMT

George Main Stakes Day was a good card's racing this year, with the feature race always a good lead up to the time honoured Epsom Hcp.

After Race 1 the most striking son of Redoutes Choice, a colt named Aussies Love Sport went through his paces with stablemate Order Of the Sun in an exhibition gallop. The sun can be a good thing or not such a good thing at the racetrack....a total nightmare when you are looking into it, which is why Warwick Farm is not ideal for shooting race images. Casts down right awful shadows over the horses and the photos I find are most unappealing - but that's me being picky. Always hope for an overcast day there. On the other hand the thoroughbred looks the most magnificent when the sun is glistening of his or her coat ! I love capturing them in all their glory with the sun shining beautifully on them. Even at the end of the afternoon, the golden shades of the last rays give the image a whole new feel.

Here's Aussie looking a picture of health in his gallop !

I was so proud of the little princess STREAMA..... my gut feeling was she could win the George Main. I've followed her since start 1 and as she progressed, her courage and little will to win became evident every time she stepped onto the racetrack. She was always going to do well with the likes of master horseman Guy Walter looking after her. She was challenged in the last 100 and her fighting spirit gave her her 3rd Group 1 win :-) Pearler of a ride by Blake Shinn too, who is riding so well at the moment.

Another girl GUELPH ( below) was back to her brilliant best taking out the Group 2 Tea Rose Stakes. She's a big girl now and all power - what a sight she is at full stretch as she comes down the outside to win ! Hugh Bowman warmed the seat for Kerrin McEvoy.

This boy has a loyal fan club who just adore him. I'm one of them. He never gives in and always tries his best... I always try when I can to go down to the stalls on big days, but whenever this big boy SINCERO is racing I make sure I get some snaps ! He's pictured here getting ready for another Group 1 assignment in the George Main, the race he had previously taken glory !

Enjoy the remaining winners of a fabulous George Main Stakes Day. Remember if you want to enquire about any other runners of the day, drop me an email.

Photon Willie

Angel Bee

Barbed

Boban

Moriarty

Sessions

Sessions - yes i could be in love again.....

Sessions

Until next time

L :-)

The GOLDEN Boy

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Tue, 17 Sep 2013 05:25:04 GMT

Golden Rose day is always a Spring highlight for me. I've seen this race grow in latter years from a good Group 2 to a million dollar Group 1 for 3 year olds. I have to say that the 2013 running was the best field yet. There were so many chances and it wouldn't surprised to see any one of 10 win the race . Like many of the our feature sprints races, even up to the 1400m of the Rose ideally inside barriers are best. However, is not always the case. It comes down to luck, a great ride by the jockey and the class & will to win of the horse. The first three across the line were in less than ideal gates. Zoustar drew in 17, Dissident 14 and Bull Point 12. They were all gems of rides. The latter Bull Point decided he didn't want to go early and tailed the field off. Myself and another photographer commented during the run that he may have eased out of it, 5 lengths behind broken down. Then approaching the home turn he tacked on the back of the field - we figured ok he's alright. I had to see the replay again as I couldn't believe when the numbers came up he got 3rd. Run of the race ! Dissident was outstanding as well for 2nd.

Dissident

Taking nothing from the winner it was all ZOUSTAR and deservedly so - the stable have had a huge opinion of him and he didn't let anyone down . A touch of sadness thinking of his sire, the il-fated Northern Meteor. What a tragic loss to Widden. This boy will no doubt fly the flag for his father where ever his stud secures him at the end of his racing career.

ZOUSTARGolden Rose Champion

ZOUSTAR2013 Golden Rose

ZOUSTARGolden Rose Champion

ZOUSTAR2013 Golden Rose

How good is Jim aka "PUMPER" Cassidy going - just like a good red improving with age.....he now sits on 99 Group 1 wins, what an incredible achievement and let me predict on a Chris Waller trained horse will he get the magic 100 !

ZOUSTAR2013 Golden Rose Jim Cassidy

Speaking of pumper, he did win again on the day aboard CWR trained Riva De Lago..... the owners were just a tad wrapped with getting their horse home ! I'll let the snaps do the talking !

Another feelgood story of the day was of course young Claire Nutman allowed to ride in her first ever city race. Claire, who started riding last September, said she dreamt about what it would be like to win with her first city cameo, and was overcome with nerves once she arrived on track.

Well she certainly didn't display any nerves during the race as her beautiful grey mare FOOTY FAN made her dream a reality. Good on you Claire !

Greg Eurell trainer of the one and only Apache Cat, Pinker Pinker etc has found himself another good horse in HOSTING (below). Early days for this son of Swettenham Studs HOST who I'm sure will be winning his share of Listed/Group races into the future !

Diamond Oasis (Below)

EQUADOR (Below)

RIVA DE LAGO (Below)

DRIEFONTEIN (Below)

PRINCE CHERI (Below)

UNTIL Next Time : GEORGE MAIN STAKES DAY AT RANDWICK !

L :-)

Chelmsford Stakes Day Royal Randwick September 7 2013

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Thu, 12 Sep 2013 04:07:27 GMT

Spring is certainly in the racing air with a fabulous card of racing at Randwick. The weather gods were kind for a change, it was very warm, but don't count on it Epsom Day. There are bets going the rain will come by then ! We certainly have had a run of glorious weather...just perfect really but we desperately need SOME rain, not only for the bushfires at present, not to mention the bush is extremely dry right now , but to clean the air, water the grounds etc.

All the horses are coming into their own at this time of year, looking and presented a picture of health.

I couldn't wait to see the dear old boy Hay List once again, I've never known a horse to display as much courage off the track, it's been well documented the hurdles he has overcome in his racing career. If you are not familiar with the Hay List story, I'd suggest you google it. To see him just at a racetrack melts my heart.

I saw first hand on Saturday what he means to his adoring owner, with tears flowing, the words of love for this one of a kind horse were very emotional and humbling to hear. He is special part of that family - it puts it all into perspective the dollar is irrelevant here, the horse is everything.

Hay List

Hay List victorious in the Group 1 All Aged Stakes

Enjoy all the winners from the day !

Spurtonic

Gangsters Choice

Decision Time

Bound For Earth

Aussies Love Sport

Malavio

Hawkspur takes out the feature Chelmsford Stks

Until next Blog The GOLDEN ROSE - what an exceptional bunch of 3 year olds contesting this years running.

L :-)

Like Father, Like Son

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Tue, 10 Sep 2013 03:34:48 GMT

Some stallions just have that something that stamp their progeny. It can either be in the looks department , physique or colour and if not the ticker that's inside. I love Lonhro. Champion racehorse and champion sire. He is my favourite horse so anything that he produces I will be keeping a watchful eye over. I just want them to succeed. And hasn't he produced some wonderful horses....

I have had a few people ask me about another striking son of Lonhro , SESSIONS and were very keen to see some photographs of him. Well finally I have some, it's taken awhile as last Saturday was the first time he and I have been in the same place together ! And yes, another chip off the old block - On first glance in the parade ring and you would know "he's a Lonhro" . He would be the same size as Lonhro not overly big but I can see more resemblances to Denman. He is lightly raced 7 starts-4-2-1 : $292,350 . He finished a terrific 2nd in the Group 3 Concorde Stakes on the weekend, his first try at Group Level. A very seasoned and most underrated sprinter in Decision Time just held him out. I think the sky is the limit for this boy - he has a superb trainer in Peter Snowden so as he gains more race experience, the big Group wins will follow ! I'll always look forward to where he runs next !

Decision Time & Sessions DECISION TIME holds out SESSIONS Group 3 Concorde Stks

SESSIONS

L :-)

Super Stallions !

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Mon, 02 Sep 2013 04:42:00 GMT

I have just posted up the Gallery from the 2013 Coolmore Stud Stallion Parade. You will find the gallery in the "General" Tab of "My Photographs".

My schedule doesn't normally allow me to venture to the Hunter Valley when the annual parades are on - it coincides with the start of the Spring Racing. In saying that it was a must for me to continue the photographic journey of once special colt in my life, Pierro. I wasn't going to miss his debut parade for a second ! He handled himself with the utmost professionalism, walking around not phased , just like he did on the racetrack before his races. He still looked like a racehorse who could step out next week, but when he finally lets down, even in another 12 months he will be a sight. His debut book is full, only the very best mares, Group winners will be knocking on his door this Spring. I have no doubt he will have every success at stud. Can't wait for those babies !

And aside from Pierro.... what a smorgasbord of horseflesh was presented by Coolmore.... some of the best stallions in the world ! It was a fabulous day had by all !

Pierro

He was a champion on the racetrack in 2 Hemispheres, has a cult like following, and looks to die for. You talk to anyone and he is the "man".

The stunning SO YOU THINK ! His dad High Chaparral has that presence too, Like father Like son. The apple certainly did not fall far from the tree !

So You Think

High Chaparral

Until Next Time,

The First Born Son

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Wed, 28 Aug 2013 05:03:55 GMT

He'd have to be the finest looking specimen I've seen on a racetrack and off it. SO YOU THINK was gifted with killer looks and presence that is only bestowed on the elitist of thoroughbreds. His race record matched it- Dual Hemisphere Group 1 winner, 5 in each, 10 Group 1 victories in total and just shy of $8 million dollars in earnings. He was an extraordinary horse and a great champion of the modern era. Certainly a privilege for anyone who witnessed his greatness. What an honour to have photographed him !

So he was retired to stand at stud at Coolmore Australia & Ireland. A new exciting chapter in his life had started - his future sons and daughters will be gracing the turf before we know it. I have no doubt he will throw his own champion one day, he is a superstar !

Could it be this little guy..... the first foal born in the world by So You Think. I couldn't resist this opportunity to drive literally "just down the road" to capture Bell View Park Studs' little "superstar" ! What a lovely morning just chilling with mum and baby...and after about 45 minutes the curiosity got the better of him. He came over for a sniff and a little nibble of my fingers, bounced away, he returned about 8 times.

Then it was game on, playtime !

Hope you enjoy these !

NEXT BLOG : COOLMORE AUSTRALIA 2013 STALLION PARADE !

What a smorgasbord of horseflesh .... Zoffany ; Excelebration ; Fastnet Rock ; Haradasun ; High Chaparral ; Pierro ; So you Think ; Spinning World ; Uncle Mo ; Choisir ; Encosta De Lago ; Duke Of Marmalade .

We say goodbye to a Legend PART 2 Black Caviar

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Thu, 22 Aug 2013 03:42:59 GMT

Before you start this blog don't forget to read Part 1 first if you have not done already :-)

We finished Part 1 with the Sydney crowd going nuts with excitement while Nelly made her way around to the barriers. We must not forget this was a HOT field of sprinters , probably the classiest field she has been up against of recent times. They were not going to give it to her easy, some plans were to keep her in so she'd have to work for it. Her opposition Rain Affair, Epaulette, Bel Sprinter, Hay List, Sea Siren, Decision Time etc. They had to try something, even though the jockeys knew full well that the chances of their mounts being victorious was slim. What an honour for all of them to be even in this race....

I was positioned in the perfect spot, to the left of the miniscule portion of sunlight that was left on track. The sun was setting FAST, too fast for comfort. We were on edge for them to jump, every second that passed the beautiful light diminished. This was possibly , although we didn't know it then, the last time we would see her grace a racetrack . The photographs just had to be perfect no question, its how she will be remembered for a lifetime. Having the TJ the last race of the day to us was not ideal, we knew the dark shadows would come into play. Who wants to see photographs of her in the shade, it doesn't do any horse justice and she certainly didn't deserve it. No wonder we were anxious to get these horses to jump ! At this point I could feel the nerves around me, to my immediate left Neil Werrett and family, likewise the other part owners the Taylors and Donna Fisher we were all tense....

And they're away, what were we worried for ? Luke eased her off the rails at the perfect moment....The mighty mare just danced the turf... It left all who witnessed it awestruck once more. What a truly magical moment....

Way to go little girl !

You may recognise the image below from the front cover of the recent Racetrack Magazine. A lovely honour.

This special mare had broken another 3 or 4 records in the process..... 15 Group 1's, 25 straight...

" Awesome. I don't have a broad enough vocabulary to truly honour this mare. I have to go to the dictionary sometimes to find out what the superlatives that everyone else use about her mean. She is just so special " Luke Nolen, Jockey.

A huge pat on the back to Moody Racing and her owners who have perfectly managed her career to the stratosphere of equine perfection !

Thankyou Nelly for our treasured memories...

"In our lives for a short time, but in our hearts for a lifetime"

Hope you enjoyed re-living this magnificent day,

Until next time, L

Next Post : So You think's first born foal, a colt by Soft Landing.

We say goodbye to a Legend... Black Caviar casts her spell for the final time PART 1

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Fri, 16 Aug 2013 01:23:30 GMT

APRIL 13 2013 THE SWANSONG TJ SMITH STAKES Group 1 Part 1

Could this day be any more perfect ? No. The stage was set for greatness, the weather was devine, sun shining. The only reason I'm convinced for the blessed weather is the mare was in our presence. Like her, it was just meant to be. I've said it numerous times I think Randwick is cursed, more so on our Carnival and Group 1 days. The weather has been down right awful past years. To prove me right after "Nelly" day, down it came the following week. A heavy track for Doncaster Day followed.

The mood was electric, everyone was buzzing. Randwick was filling up fast, people of all ages wearing the salmon and black, waving their flags. That was early, we had another 6 hours before "THE" race. The build up I've never experienced anything like it. My view from the other side of the track was amazing, the new Grandstand on show with a capacity crowd was certainly a sight to behold.

We must remember it was Derby Day and the other racing during the afternoon was fabulous , even though somewhat overshadowed ! The easiest Derby win I've seen by an exceptional little colt, It's A Dundeel. It was extraordinary what he had achieved during the Autumn winning the 3 year old Triple Crown with the utmost ease. A couple more class acts also won, Royal Descent from the Chris Waller stable, love this filly and likewise Guelph who took out the Champagne Stakes. After this race it was time to venture out back to see if the mighty mare had arrived on course. I love to get behind the scenes shots, it's a must have on the big days. And there she was. Doing her usual thing which was walking around as casual as you like, the gentle swagger for such a big girl with the tail swishing. She has presence and those who knew her could always pick her out from the rest. But to the general racegoers or those who had come to see her for the first time she was hard to spot ! A group of girls on the fence with me were looking excitedly just to catch a glimpse, cameras in hand . " We just want to see her " they said. I pointed her out, well there she is right in front of you ! You'd think they'd won the lotto ! That happened frequently, I'd point her out and peoples faces would just light up at the sight of her !

The hours passed and it was time. I was now in the Theatre Of the Horse, every vantage point taken and then some. It was buzzing, incredible atmosphere in such a relatively small arena. Every person with some form of hand held camera device was jostling for arm positions just to get their shot as she entered the parade. At this stage the nerves had set in, I imagine everybody there felt something. The bulid up of adrenalin tends to make me feel sick with nervousness, I guess with excitement but more so that she goes around safely, this wasn't just any horse. At this point I couldn't wait for it to be over !

And through the tunnel she came like a Royal Procession, the cheers went another octave louder, flags and banners waved higher. The only one not feeling the pinch was the mare herself. Ever relaxed she walked by knowing full well what she was about to do. She was intelligent and knew everyone was there to see her, she held her head regally high, turned to the side to have a look like she was taking in the occasion. I love these series of photographs, she looked so proud of herself.

Now Game ON !! Fans were pumped !!

PART 2 TO BE CONTINUED....... "The Curtain Closes"

The non existent blog of late......

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Thu, 15 Aug 2013 05:18:19 GMT

I feel a bit let down of the fact I haven't paid any attention to my blog for a LONG time ! There have been a lot of people check in on my blog - I've checked the stats and the amount of views took me by surprise that people were quite interested, so my neglect of late I apologise !

I think it's a great thing to do, pen down (type) ones thoughts and accounts of the day and the wonderful and not so wonderful things that cross our paths . By no means I consider myself a writer, not my thing, my photographs are, but there are times where documenting life's memorable moments are a necessity ! I need to do this for my grandkids and their grandkids. Who is to say I won't lose my marbles one day and won't remember a thing ! And who do I have to thank for getting me inspired to do this.....

When she was doing her thing she was the most famous girl in the world, remarkably photogenic, beautiful , athletic, she knew how to draw a crowd. Settling for second best was never an option. Then followed countless accolades and awards. Perfection. Immortality. Never thought in my lifetime I would see anything like her. Thankyou Black Caviar, our dear Nelly , you are a dream come true, my dream come true.

In this generation we all get to pinch ourselves, that we were there, all aboard the Caviar Express. For me also the fact that I was blessed at this time in my life to be working with Thoroughbreds. I could have gone down this equine path when I left school but the idea was not there, nor was it in my twenties. Other things took precedence. Not long after that it was marriage and starting a family. All the while the love of the racehorse was always a burning passion within me, from a very small child. Phar Lap was my idol. I'd often wonder what it would've been like to be in the presence of greatness, a hero and the equine freak that he was. Just to have seen him race. Through later years the photography side came into it, I really appreciated the impact of photography and the stories that could be told from a single image. SO, after the family had started, I decided there and then I was to do something about it and got myself to the racetracks with a camera in hand. The rest is history . I think it was my destiny, that I was meant to be there when our new turf heroine came along ! Having Media Accreditation and to be recognised for what I do is also humbling at times , allowing me to stand alongside some great champions of the modern era and the great mare herself, is just priceless. I count my lucky stars.

The phenomenon that is Black Caviar can't really be put into words, you just had to be there . And if you were not, well the tv screens were the next best thing. She was the greatest show on earth, a horse that stopped a nation. The euphoria just got bigger and louder as the tally of victories grew. None more apparent than her last 2 racestarts, the 2013 William Reid stakes, her last run on Victorian soil and the swansong 2013 TJ Smith Stakes at Royal Randwick. Something we won't see the like of again, ever.

Enjoy these magic moments ! First up 2013 WILLIAM REID STAKES .

NEXT BLOG > We say goodbye to our Legend 2013 TJ Smith Stakes.

SOON ! Spring is here and that means babies - my time with a special little colt, a first from 10 time Group 1 winner SO YOU THINK !

Until next time, L

RANVET / COOLMORE CLASSIC DAY

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 12:05:24 GMT

It’s the 29^th of March and I’m writing this blog from the serenity and peacefulness of Turon Gates located about 70 kms this side of Mudgee. We are the only ones here and have the place to ourselves…

I’m sitting by the river at our campsite, listening to little wrens and the flow of running water while the kookaburras look on. It’s very difficult to switch the brain on but I figure I must do this blog now as I will not have the time to do so when I come home tomorrow. Then it’s Rosehill Guineas day Saturday and I will be backlogged !

Ranvet/Coolmore day was just perfect ! Don’t we wish we could bottle the day and have all our racedays like this, perfect weather, conditions and racing. The horses looked magnificent, their coats and dapples just gleaming in the sunshine.

The Todman Stakes. What a little fighter is PIERRO (pictured), he was headed a couple of times in the straight by the Darley runner EPAULETTE, but fought back again when it counted to win the race by a short half head. Out of Gai’s slipper contenders, he’s always been my pick for the big one ! He is gorgeous and loves the camera, my best headshots of him yet. The hectic pace of a slipper will suit him and if the dogfight is on at the 200m, he’ll give it everything when the whips are cracking !

PIERRO

Onto the girls version, the Reisling Stakes. SAMAREADY (pictured). A serious contender for the Golden Slipper crown and to my little boy Pierro. Yes, she deserves to be favourite ! She toyed with her opposition and beat them convincingly. It was fantastic to see her in the flesh for the first time, and accordingly took plenty of snaps of her ! Trainer Mick Price said there is a big V8 motor in that little filly, while jockey Craig Newitt said she was much better going the Sydney way of going compared to the Melb way.

SAMAREADY

Small team trainers always dream of having atleast one star in their stable and for Craig Carmody his little star is SINGLE (pictured). His dreams have even loomed larger including the Doncaster Mile for Single. He gave the trainer his first stakes success by winning the Listed $100,000 race. He’s a lovely little horse who tries his best in his races and may the run continue ! It was also great to see the 8 year old Fiumicino strike some form in his last two runs. He is one striking old fella, big and strong with dapples just blazing in the sun. I knew he would run well again. He hasn’t won for 2 years since his Derby and BMW triumphs but maybe there is one more in him perhaps !

SINGLE

The queen of Sydney racing is back - MORE JOYOUS (pictured) , and she was exactly that beating a very good field of stars in the Group 2 Canterbury Stakes. The placegetters ran very well as some of those were having their first runs back. METAL BENDER don’t under estimate him – a very good racehorse when fit (Has the Chris Waller polish on ). No surprise for me to see him run 2^nd. He’s a winner. Monton, Sincero, Love Conquers All ran terrific. Naughty boy Albert The Fat up to some antics in the enclosure…..making a mess of the rose bushes and throwing his jockey off ! When he cantered past he had some blood on his bum from the thorns of the rose bush….you could kiss his run goodbye !

MORE JOYOUS

Gai Waterhouse said she was vulnerable on the day. We had noticed in the mounting yard her coat had not come through yet. and looked beaten at the top of the straight but as champions do they find something extra , a burst of excelleration and her will to win to get the job done. Nash just loves her to death, she’s special to many and those who work with her. None more so than her strapper and faithfull one Dave Meijer, the bond is obvious between the two. I have hundreds of images of them together, which Dave has a few that I have done for him. She is just amazing and has only be beaten once in Sydney since 2009, and that was on a terrible wet track in last years Doncaster. Fingers crossed the rain stays away this year please !!! This champion girl deserves her name on the Doncaster trophy. No one would begrudge her that.

MORE JOYOUS

The RANVET Stakes MANIGHAR (pictured). Always a good indication for the stayers going into the Group 1 BMW on slipper day. Peter Moody, what an outstanding trainer. This man is a genius perhaps or Manighar loves racing in Oz ! Both I think. Under his care he has won his last 3 of 4 runs for Peter since his staying days from last years Melbourne Cup where he run 5^th to Dunaden. I backed Manighar in the cup, he looked so well before the race and he ran so well ! He certainly is a rejuvenated racehorse but he had to fight hard for the Ranvet. RANGIRANGDOO is back with a bang god love him…he’s had issues his whole life and Chris Waller has nursed him back to his brilliant best. His not at the top of his game yet and will only improve again. I’ll be having a sneaky bet on RANGI in the Doncaster, he’s won it before and remember, it takes a very strong 2000m horse to run the tough Randwick mile (1600m) !

MANIGHAR

Three cheers for Kathy O’Hara…you’ve done it, finally winning a group 1 aboard the mare OFCOURSEICAN (pictured) in the Group 1 Coolmore Classic ! Kathy really is a brilliant rider, I’ve always hoped for years she’d get better mounts or have the opportunities to do so as she would be winning many more of them ! Maybe the trainers will giver her a go now ? Let’s hope so. Well done to trainer Ron Quinton too, I remember fondly growing up watching Ron on that champion grey mare Emancipation having epic duels with Sir Dapper ! I had my fingers crossed for the little filly Streama….yes it was a big ask running against the more seasoned older mares but a 5^th placing was good considering and I’m sure she will comeback an older mare and take out this very race ! Kings Rose and Secret Admirer are on track for their main autumn goals.

OFCOURSEICAN

Teenage riding sensation from NZ James McDonald scored a great win aboard the John O’Shea trained COLORADO CLAIRE and was awarded the Golden Slipper mount on John’s runner ASHOKAN immediately after the win. He really is the talk of the town, the natural gift he has riding these horses and winning on them.

So what a day it was…. The carnival is in full swing now and the racing is going to be mouthwatering leading into the Sydney Carnival !

Chat next week after the Rosehill Guineas Day Meeting !

Happy Racing ! L

2012 RANDWICK Guineas Day

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 05:38:40 GMT

Hi All !

No blog for last week....... I didn't go to Warwick Farm for the Chipping Norton Stakes - the first running of the race I have missed. Instead I'd spent a lovely afternoon witnessing my sister and her husband married again....the wedding itself was in gorgeous Koh Samui Thailand back in July last year . This time it was a just immediate family attending a small ceremony at the registry office to make it official in Australia. We all then ventured down to Wooloomooloo for a lovely lunch on the wharf at "Otto's". Yummy food, wine, view and more importantly SUN was enjoyed by all !!

The sun was short lived however when saturday (Randwick Guineas) morning was gloomy and showery. Typical. I'm sure I've said it before but I'm convinced Randwick is cursed whenever the big carnival days are upon us. Not pleasant conditions for any of us media, owners, trainers, strappers and horses ! No point cursing about it, I think we are all used to it by now and take it in our stride.

The old Randwick is now gone....demolition and destruction make up the scene all in preparation for the grand plan of a world class racing facility. It's certainly needed . If we are to be a major player on the world stage, a facility like this is essential for Sydney.

Of course the racing was great...things are really hotting up on the racetrack this time of year and the cream starts to rise to the top. The track itself was a picture and in prime condition, what a pity Sydney had to dump rain the night before and we had a slow 7. A lot of horses are still crying out for a drier track to enhance their ability. Others love the wet and the "good" ones handle all conditions thrown at them.

OLDER THAN TIME (pictured) is ticking along beautifully for the longer races, watch for her in the Sydney Cup. A lovely grey mare Fibrillation (pictured) took out the race, loving the wet conditions ahead of Cabernet and Older Than time in third.

FIBRILLATION OLDER THAN TIME The Skyline Stakes for the boys, another lead up to the all important Golden Slipper. ASHOKAN (pictured) defeated the former Golden Slipper favourite Raceway, who tasted defeat for the first time. He did pick himself up Raceway late and claimed 2nd on the line. Ashokans jockey Jim Cassidy said it was an outstanding win, he dug deep and was all class.

ASHOKAN Now for the girls, the Sweet Embrace Stks. Confidence is brewing now in the Chris Waller camp after JADE MARAUDING (pictured) burst through to take the Group 2 event. She is a bomb proof racehorse and a hot slipper tempo will suit the daughter of Fastnet Rock. Speaking of Fastnet Rocks, how good are they all going right now !! VALERIO went super from a wide gate, got a little lost in the straight when she was there by herself but boxed on only to be beaten by the winner. Kyria was 3rd and is desperate for a dry track, so her effort was good in these conditions.

JADE MARAUDER MAULES CREEK took out the Randwick City Stakes ahead of an encouraging 2nd from Herculian Prince. He's racing into his own again Herc and is finding the form he once had when he took out the Group 1 Metropolitan. Nash commented he deserves his chance in the BMW this year. What a super race is the BMW shaping and no doubt will be right up there as the highlight of the carnival. A previous BMW winner in FUIMICINO (pictured) looked outstanding in the yard with his dapples showing run a terrific race for 4th. We thought he may run a race by his appearance and he loves the slow tracks. The two likely options for Maules Creek are next Saturday’s Listed Sky High Stakes (1900m) at Rosehill and the Group III Neville Selwood Stakes (2000m) on Golden Slipper day, April 7.

FUIMICINO I was looking forward to NIAGARA's (pictured) return to the track. What a stunning horse. I last photographed him when he was running in the VRC DERBY. He has Group 1 potential no doubt and is well on his way after his good 2nd to stablemate NOBBY SNIP who was rock fit. Nash declared Niagara a Doncaster horse ! Nobby (pictured) is a little winner in his own right and is putting together an imposing race record ! AEROBATICS tried her best and went well for 3rd.

NIAGARA NOBBY SNIP Well there is no doubt there is an incredible "Machine" within MOSHEEN !! No filly has ever won the Randwick Guineas and she is in the record books as the first to do so. The Oaks, Australian Guineas now the Randwick Guineas all at group 1 level....where does it end, this girl is on fire and I'm sure it will continue. What a race if she should meet Atlantic Jewel in the near future. Many are saying that AJ is leaps ahead, maybe true but Mosheen has gone up another 2 gears in my opinion and is a better horse now than she was ! Will make the contest mouthwatering ! Throw in that mix STREAMA, Sydneys little queen, I love her spirit and heart and she will be there when the whips are cracking ! Enjoy these shots of Mosheen's Randwick Guineas !

MOSHEEN

MOSHEEN MOSHEEN MOSHEEN MOSHEEN MOSHEEN What a feelgood story to finish the day with ROSE OF PEACE (pictured) feeling the love with her connections after she won the Listed Wenona Girl Hcp. A fitting St Patricks day gift for her owners being Irish winning the race paying $124 the win ! I don't think I have photographed a 100-1 winner before so she's a first for me ! Good on her ! It's nice to see this...horses that are given no hope on the day , have their time in the sun !

ROSE OF PEACE ROSE OF PEACE Until next week....Myer Ladies Day at Rosehill featuring the Group1 Coolmore Classic and Ranvet Stakes and a feast of group racing ! One of my favourite racedays on the calendar !

L :-)

2012 Silver Slipper Day

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 03:36:35 GMT

After all the flooding rain we have been having across the state, I was dreading the afternoon at Rosehill Gardens and was prepared to get very wet. Not my ideal work conditions by any stretch as it makes it so difficult. The lighting is always poor and I certainly don't want to get my equipment wet . And to top that off, all our gorgeous equine friends don't always look their best because of the conditions.

In saying that the rain gods decided to give us some reprieve and the worst we got was a couple of brief drizzling showers. Most of the day it was dry ! I am convinced though Sydney is jinxed when it comes to our major carnivals and the Group 1 days to be specific, we can't seem to take a trick of late ! There have been some shocking days for the feature races. Let's hope it's a thing of the past and we are presented with glorious autumn weather this carnival !

Darley was first and second across the line in race 1. DETOURS(pictured) held off her stablemate AEROBATICS, both handling the conditions well.

DETOURS MERLIN MUSTANG (below) perhaps a little under rated going into this won well, following up on his hard fought finish of last week against LASER HAWK. He is a lovely looking gelding and returned to scale with the ears pricked !

MERLIN MUSTANG NOBBY SNIP (below) is starting to produce a good race record. Now 6 starts 4 wins and a second. He was most impressive on his return to racing at Canterbury winning by 6.5 lengths back on Feb 17, exploding away at the 200 ! He won well the Fireball Quality on the weekend and I'm sure he will go on to bigger things. His victory was the first of a winning treble for the Gai Waterhouse stable. Tommy is riding well too !

NOBBY SNIP It was good to see PRAECIDO (below) in the winners circle, which I might add is not very often ! These horses are thereabouts when they step out season after season, try their best but find it difficult to win. So I say good on them when they do !

PRAECIDO As some of you may know, I do take a lot of images for the Gai Waterhouse stable and they are posted regularly on their website. I had my hands full today going through all the images I took of their 3 winners - PIERRO, NOBBY SNIP & WILD AND PROUD ! Keeps me busy !

Gai has always had a strong hand in the Slipper, and it's no different this year. They all are very good 2 year olds, the cream of those will rise to the top and take it's place in the final slipper field. I have a little soft spot for PIERRO (below), so out of Gai's nursery he's my pick for the Slipper :-) His dad the mighty LONHRO is my favourite horse and I would dearly love him to sire a Slipper winner ! So cmon Lonhro too ! It really was an outstanding run to win the Silver Slipper considering he missed the start and came out last. Not many babies can recover and on a heavy 9 track mind you , pick themselves up and go onto win. I think he is in the slipper up to his ears. I'm wary of the little victorian girl SAMAREADY...isn't she something !

PIERRO The other feature of the day saw WILD AND PROUD (inside) at big odds thankyou very much, take the Hobartville Stakes in a protest. It was a terrific effort from the Snowland gelding digging deep and fighting it out with MANAWANUI. Will be an interesting Randwick Guineas in a fortnight. Poor Hot Snitzel, copped a nice bump in the interference and had to pick himself up again, easing up on the line.

WILD AND PROUD (inside) The final group race of the day saw the mares step out in the Millie Fox. It was a shame this group 3 race didn't have many starters in the end. RED TRACER (below) loves soft tracks and was not to be denied taking out the race. She also has fantastic race record where she has only been unplaced once in her career. 15 starts - 7 wins - 3 seconds - 4 thirds. For a stayer OLDER THEN TIME finished off nicely for her distance assignments ahead.

RED TRACER Hope you all enjoyed the day and it was a winning one !

Until next time, L

Apollo Stakes Day February 25 2012

(TURFSTARS m e d i a) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 04:00:24 GMT

Not only was it the feature race in Sydney but we also had a bumper day at Caulfield featuring the Blue Diamond Stakes and the Futurity Stakes. It was a day of many highlights but you can only be in one place at the one time unfortunately !

I loved WOORIM'S Oakleigh Plate win....there's nothing like coming from the tail and passing every horse in the race. A mighty effort ! He is renowned for his big finishing bursts. A big congratulations to trainer Robert Heathcote on his first Group 1 win !

Samaready was so dominant in the Blue Diamond, if she was to contest the Golden Slipper she will give it a serious shake amongst other serious contenders from the Waterhouse stable.

Let's hail the king. KING MUFHASA. 9 Group 1 wins and more than likely still counting ! The evergreen NZ seven-year-old proved too good for the remainder of the field, dictating the pace from the very beginning. The plan is for him to come to Sydney now for the one or both George Ryder Stakes or the All Aged Stakes. I look forward to that.

Moving on to ROSEHILL GARDENS where most of the expected runners to race well did perform on the day , while many of those having their first or 2nd runs back impressed.

LASER HAWK for the Gai Waterhouse stable was strong in his win and looks like he will fare well in the big test the AJC Derby down the track. He is the little brother to one of my all time favourite horses in DESERT WAR. He is a big fella like he was and I can see some similarities between the two.

LASER HAWK

DEAR DEMI won well and was strong on the line, no doubt impressing owner John Singleton who flew in by helicopter earlier in the day. I was equally impressed with the Craig Carmody trained SINGLE (pictured), he's a real little winner after being held up. When he saw daylight he was impressive, Nathan Berry thought so too with his fist pump on the line. It was great to see NO EVIDENCE NEEDED back in the winners circle, "Joe" from Brazil rode her a treat and they couldn't catch her ! Secret Admirer ran well for her first up run and is on track for her big autumn goals.

SINGLE

Lastly , RAIN AFFAIR. Winner 2012 Apollo Stakes. He oozes class and I have no doubt we haven't seen the best of him yet. It's exciting the thought..how good can he be ? He has now won 10 from 11 and on writing this, he heads south for the Newmarket Hcp in a few days. It will be a test for him but I'm sure he'll step up another gear. He is the first horse in over 70 years to win 9 consecutive races on Sydney metro tracks. I thought the stayers Herculian Prince & Tullamore worked home well and Shoot Out hasn't put a hoof wrong so far. I'm sure he can win another Group 1 race and with Chris Waller putting the polish on him, it's very likely !

RAIN AFFAIR

Until next week at Rosehill Gardens.... Silver Slipper Day. Rain stay away please...................... it's likely we'll be running on a heavy track.