November 18th, 2008

After brilliant victories at Hastings and Te Rapa at his last two starts, Mufhasa continued his devastating form with a track record performance in the $300,000 Group 2, Coupland’s Bakeries Mile (1600m), at Riccarton Park in Christchurch last Wednesday (Nov 12).

On a day that produced good times throughout, Mufhasa covered the mile a slick 1:32.83, sprinting home his last 600m in 34.98, to smash the previous record of 1:33.51, set by Cog Hill (Star Way) in the corresponding event three years ago.

From second on the outside of leader Tipulater (Truly Vain), after jumping from a wide barrier, Mufhasa travelled to the front under a hold by Samantha Spratt. Then with just under two furlongs to go Spratt clicked him up and the son of Pentire changed stride and flattened out to burst two lengths clear, before sprinting away to win easily by one-and-a-quarter lengths.

Mufhasa had been favourite for the event with bookmakers leading into the event, and retained his status at the ‘off’, second placed Vosne Romanee (Electronic Zone) and Sterling Prince (Colombia), a nose back in third, were also strongly supported.

Trekked south from the Stephen McKee stable at Ardmore in Auckland, Mufhasa has now won nine times from eighteen starts, including six of his last nine, for $382,000 in prize money.

McKee said, “He got over nicely, got a rest across the top and a good sit outside the leader, and is a tough sort with a natural turn-of-foot.”
Upcoming on his agenda, McKee said, “The plan is to tackle the Telegraph fresh, go where the money is, the Telegraph is a million, and maybe the Stradbroke in the winter.”
Spratt said, “Turning for home he was travelling so well, and I said wait, wait, wait and there is huge improvement left in this horse.”

Purchased by part-owner David Archer as a yearling at the 2006 New Zealand Bloodstock Select for $50,000, from the draft of Rich Hill Stud, Mufhasa is shared by his son Simon, daughter Natalie, and partner Diane Wright.

October 5th, 2008

Pentire gelding Mufhasa (NZ) claimed his first stakes win on Saturday, putting pay to his rivals in the Listed Kelt Memorial Stakes (1400m) at Hastings in New Zealand.

It was the Stephen McKee-trained gallopers’ fifth win from his last eight starts, and seventh career success.

Bred by John and Colleen Thompson of Rich Hill Stud, Mufhasa had signalled his quality with a creditable fourth placing behind Pasta Post in the Gr.1 ARC Easter Handicap at Ellerslie in April. He will now head south for a start in the NZ$300,000 Gr.2 Coupland’s Bakeries Mile (1600m) at Riccarton on November 12.

Mufhasa is owned by Natalie, David and Simon Archer, in partnership with Diane Wright, and was a NZ$50,000 purchase as a yearling by David Archer at the 2006 New Zealand Bloodstock Select from the Rich Hill Stud draft.

August 11th, 2008

Pentire's stock continues to attract strong results in the sales ring.

At last Friday's New Zealand Bloodstock's annual South Island Sale of Two-Year-Olds and Mixed Bloodstock in Christchurch the highest priced paid for the juvenile's on offer was a colt by Pentire from Grace The Bride when leading Australian bloodstock agent John Foote bid to NZ$82,500 to secure him he was offered as Lot 7.

July 18th, 2008

Tough New Zealand-bred stayer Art Success (ex Zabelette by Zabeel) confirmed he was back to his best at Grafton on Thursday, powering home to score a decisive two-length victory in the Listed Grafton Cup (2350m).
The winner of the Gr.1 Brisbane Cup (3200m) in 2006, Art Success has now registered seven wins and seven placing's from his 37 raceday appearances, and will be given the opportunity to add further silverware to his trophy cabinet in September’s Newcastle Gold Cup, and then possibly on to the rich spoils of the Melbourne Spring Carnival. 

Bred by Hong Kong-based Roger Lam Art Success was foaled and raised at Haunui Farm in Auckland.

Hailing from the family of the Gr.1 winning mare Hello Dolly, Art Success is the third foal of his unraced dam, Zabelette (Zabeel) whose subsequent progeny includes a sister to Art Success foaled in 2007.  Astute Australian-based bloodstock agent Mark Pilkington purchased a 2006 half-sister to Art Success by Elusive City at this year’s Karaka Premier Yearling Sale for NZ$140,000.

Art Success is one of 22 stakes-winners for the Rich Hill Stud sire Pentire (GB) (Be My Guest). 

Pentire added a seventh Gr.1 winner to his sire resume earlier this season, courtesy of his outstanding three-year-old daughter Zarita, winner of the South Australian Derby and the Australasian Oaks.

Pentire stands at Rich Hill Stud in New Zealand this season at a fee of $22,500 (+ GST).

June 8th, 2008

  In the Rod Johnson Hcp, Pentire three-year-old, Sir Penthouse, produced one of the runs of the day coming from a clear last to storm home down the outside to take out the 2000 metre event.

  A good looking chestnut three-year-old gelding, Sir Penthouse was coming off a strong three-length maiden win at Warrnambool twelve days earlier.  Ridden by Nick Hall, Sir Penthouse was eased out the back when the gates opened as Count the Diamonds took up the running with Hargitay who was keen to find the rail.  Hargitay under Nick Ryan strode forward to take control inside the 1600m before slowing the speed, he was still at the head of proceedings at the 400m but Persian Star was closing ahead of Raffaello. However, Sir Penthouse and Raeburn were starting to charge home down the outside, with Sir Penthouse being too strong and went on to claim a three-quarter-of-a-length win over Raeburn (Danehill Dancer - Portrait by Octagonal) with Raffaello (Encosta de Lago - Sweet Delight by Rancho ruler) another length-and-a-half away in third.

  With the way Sir Penthouse went to the line he looks to have a bright future in the staying ranks.  Out of the unraced Entrepreneur mare Kacey a half-sister to the Group 3 winner Another Sound (by Sound Reason) who in turn is the dam of the stakes placed galloper, Botero also by Pentire.

  Sir Penthouse is another example of New Zealand Bloodstock agent Paul Willet's eye as he selected him out of the 2006 New Zealand Bloodstock select yearling sale where he gave $33,000 for him.  With two wins from 11 race starts Sir Penthouse has well and truly paid for himself collecting more than $64,500 with the promise of more to come.

April 13th, 2008

Classy filly Zarita will attempt to add another classic to the two she already holds after winning yesterday’s Group 1 South Australian Derby (2500m) at Morphettville.  Having already claimed the Australasian Oaks at the same track two weeks ago, Zarita yesterday proved herself one of the best staying three-year-olds in the country.

Jumping from barrier 12 in the 16-strong field, jockey Greg Childs made use of the filly in the early stages to take up a position outside the leader Mega Boss.  Allowing the bay to settle she travelled in third spot until 800m from home when Childs got her away from the rail.  Coming to the turn Childs led her stride up into the firing line.  Holding her together for another half-a-dozen strides before he asked her to sprint home and when she did she was able to get away from her opponents and easily held off the late challenge of Zagreb (Zabeel - Dansino by Danehill) to claim her second win at the highest level by three-quarters-of-a-length.

The daughter of Pentire has now won seven of her 11 starts and almost $1 million in prizemoney.

Trainer Pat Hyland confirmed Zarita’s Sydney mission would be the AJC Australian Oaks at Randwick on April 30.

In winning the SAJC Derby Zarita became the first filly to land the classic since Showella in 1999, but Hyland, who celebrated his sixth group one win, admitted that he took a calculated risk by returning to Adelaide to win a second group one event with her.  

"When we came home from Adeliade two weeks ago her owner Bill Frost rang me and said: "Pat, Just listen to what I've got in mind.  I know it sounds a bit out of left field but would think about running Zarita in the Derby."  He then told Hyland that it was a $7000 late entry fee, it didn't look beyond her and maybe they could go to Sydney after that.  Hyland said his argument was hard to knock.  All it means is Zarita will miss the Arrowfield Stakes, which could back fire if Zarita gets on the wrong leg in the Oaks but that was the risk the owner was happy to take."  

Zarita will now travel to Sydney a little later and go straight into the AJC Australian Oaks.

Hyland has also stated that if there's any hiccup with her health out of Saturday's tough Derby win then Zarita will go to the spelling paddock and be prepared for next spring.

Zarita is a $195,000 purchase out of the 2006 New Zealand Bloodstock Premier Yearling Sale she is the first group one winner for her unraced dam Gin Player (by Defensive Play) and her dams second stakes winner as her gelded son Run Like The Wind is a group two winner.  Gin Player is a daughter of the Group 3 VRC Hilton on the Park Stakes heroine, Gin Rhythm (by Western Sympnony) a three-quarter sister-in-blood to the stakes winning,  Any Rhythm.

Hyland bought another Pentire filly this year in New Zealand at the Karaka sales, from Gemscay, making her a full sister to Group One winner Penny Gem. 

Pentire, has two yearlings for sale in Australia this year and both are being offered at the Inglis Australian Easter Select sale (April 20 - 24th).    The first lot to go up for auction is a filly out of the Group I winner Hello Dolly (by Mi Preferido) while the other is a colt from the stakes winning and producing mare, What Can I Say (by Khozaam), the dam of Only Words (by End Sweep) and Gibraltar Campion (by Rock of Gibraltar). 

March 30th, 2008

Pentire's bonny filly Zarita took out the Group I Schweppes Oaks at Morphettville in determined fashion on Saturday and in doing so she showed that she would be a major contender for the Group I Australian Oaks to be run at Randwick next month. 

Zarita

Trained at Cranbourne by Pat Hyland, the rider of the great Vain, she gave him his fifth success at the highest level.  Although Hyland could be forgiven for not liking Morphettville as that was the track that had called a halt to his riding career.    Saturday's success just might have helped ease the pain of the horror fall many years ago and brought a smile to his face.

  Hyland is on record saying that he believes Zarita could be one of the best fillies he has trained.  As he rides is horses work each morning and said "she gives me the right feel."

   Zarita, travelled well in the Oaks under her regular rider Greg Childs settling in fourth spot behind Zodiac Queen who set a solid tempo outside Bashful Girl.  As Zodiac Queen began to falter, rounding the home turn, Bashful Girl and Zarita strode forward.  Once they had rounded the turn Bashful Girl dropped away in the last 200m as she found the journey too far and Zarita simply took control of the race. 

  From back in the pack the swoopers began to emerge with Moment In Time issuing the toughest challenge as she charged down Zarita and got on terms with her. 

  Childs asked Zarita to lift and the filly found more sticking her neck out with her ears pinned back on her head claim the neck victory over the South Australian trained Moment In Time (Archway - Concluding by Kenny's Best Pal), with Queen Of Queens (King of Kings - The Kulm by Grand Lodge) one-and-a-half lengths away in third.

Zarita has plenty of Pentire's qualities and her determined win gave him his seventh winner at the elite level.

Hyland told Sport 927 that he had been tempted to leave Zarita in South Australia for the South Australian Oaks on Saturday week, but his plan had always been to give her three weeks off before he headed to Sydney and he was going to keep to his original plan.

Zarita will have her three weeks off and then if all is well with her health she will run in the Group I Arrowfield Stakes at Rosehill in three weeks time.  If she pulls up well after that she will back up into the AJC Australian Oaks eleven days later.

"But if there's any hiccup with her health out of Saturday's tough Schweppes Oaks then shell go to the spelling paddock and be prepared for next spring."

Hyland added "She's a very valuable filly."

A $195,000 purchase at the 2006 New Zealand Bloodstock Premier Yearling Sale, Zarita continues to put together an imposing record with six wins from ten starts and earnings of more than $700,000.  

She is raced by the same connections who raced another classy filly with Hyland, Ballet Society.  

Hyland bought another Pentire filly this year in New Zealand at the Karaka sales, from Gemscay, making her a full sister to Group One winner Penny Gem. 

Zarita is the first group one winner for her unraced dam Gin Player (by Defensive Play) and her second stakes winner as her gelded son Run Like The Wind is a group two winner.  Gin Player is a daughter of the Group 3 VRC Hilton on the Park Stakes heroine, Gin Rhythm (by Western Sympnony) a three-quarter sister-in-blood to the stakes winning,  Any Rhythm.

Pentire, has two yearlings for sale in Australia this year and both are being offered at the Inglis Australian Easter Select sale (April 20 - 24th).    The first lot to go up for auction is a filly out of the Group I winner Hello Dolly (by Mi Preferido) while the other is a colt from the stakes winning and producing mare, What Can I Say (by Khozaam), the dam of Only Words (by End Sweep) and Gibraltar Campion (by Rock of Gibraltar). 

March 9th, 2008

It was 'Super Saturday' and trainer Pat Hyland got into the 'racing mood' when he declared his talented filly Zarita would be spot-on for her attempt to win her first Group One race in the Australasian Oaks after she outgunned Absolut Glam in the Group 2 Kewney Stakes at Flemington. 

The daughter of Pentire held off a late challenge from Absolut Glam (Snowland - Pine Away by Pine Bluff) to score by a long neck with Bashful Girl (Perugino - Strike High by Pre Emptive Strike) 1-1/4 lengths away in third. 

Zarita, ridden by Greg Childs, raced in second place behind Musidora who set a sold tempo.  Musidora swung for home full of running and with her jockey, Vlad Duric, immediately asking for another effort, Childs, got to work on Zarita who appeared to hit a flat spot.  The the bay filly wound up into top gear to race up to Musidora at the clock tower.  Absolute Glam who had got out of the ruck had sprinted quickly to join Zarita and just as it appeared that Absolute Glam was set to go straight past her she faltered and Zarita got the upper hand.   Bashful Girl, who was a little unlucky getting squeezed for room as she was taking ground off the first two but the gap closed and she did best of the rest for third.

Last spring's VRC Oaks winner, Arapaho Miss gave the trio a big start before charging home late and is just about ready to win over a little further.

Hyland will take Zarita to South Australia for her next run in the Australasian Oaks (2000m) at Morphettville on March 29 before she goes to Sydney for the Arrowfield Stud Stakes (2000m) at Rosehill on April 19 and the Australian Oaks (2400m) at Randwick on April 30. 

Hyland told TVN's Bruce Clark, "She's one tough filly. Absolut Glam looked to be coming at her very quickly but I knew she had a fight on her hands because this filly (Zarita) won't give up,"  

"I think the longer the races get the better she'll be." 

Zarita has now won five of her nine starts, three of them at Group Two level including the Wakeful Stakes (2000m) at Flemington last spring. 

"She's getting better with every run," Childs said. 

"The leader went early and got a break on me, but I was trying to bide my time a little and she was under pressure. 

"With 200 metres to go I saw Absolut Glam out of the corner of my eye, but she (Zarita) dug deep and was going away at the finish." 

Zarita is the second Group Two winner for her unraced dam Gin Player (by Defensive Play) joining the Pins gelding Run Like the Wind (seven wins).  Gin Player is a daughter of the Group 3 VRC Hilton on the Park Stakes heroine, Gin Rhythm (by Western Sympnony) a three-quarter sister-in-blood to the stakes winning,  Any Rhythm.

Due to the outbreak of Equine Influenza, Pentire, only has two yearlings for sale in Australia this year and both are being offered at the Inglis Australian Easter Select sale (April 20 - 24th).    The first lot to go up for auction is a filly out of the Group I winner Hello Dolly (by Mi Preferido) while the other is a colt from the stakes winning and producing mare, What Can I Say (by Khozaam), the dam of Only Words (by End Sweep) and Gibraltar Campion (by Rock of Gibraltar). 

February 24th, 2008

Last year's Group 2 Wakeful Stakes heroine Zarita returned to the winners' enclosure on Saturday at Caulfield when she made the Group 2 Angus Armanasco Stakes her own.

Trained by Pat Hyland at Cranbourne the bay daughter of Rich Hill Stud's classy Pentire, settled behind the tempo set by Katherine Gold who took the field along at an even pace with Zarita getting a lovely trail right behind her.  Tranquility Base pulled out to make her run as they cornered allowing Zarita to get clear.  After racing outside the leader Pleasantsundaygirl (ex Thunder Nights by Thunder Gulch) kicked clear on straightening, but could not hold off Zarita who was very strong in the finish to claim a length victory over the daughter of Cape Cross.  

El Daana (Redoute's Choice - Sunday Valentine by Sunday Silence) swept home out wide from the rear for third another three-quarters-of-a-length away.

Zarita will now tackle the Kewney Stakes at Flemington on March 8 before leaving for Adelaide where she will tackle the Group I Australasian Oaks.

Greg Childs told Bruce Clark from TVN, “She’s really matured since last spring and we always felt she would be a better horse next preparation and next preparation is now.” 

A $195,000 purchase at the 2006 New Zealand Bloodstock Premier Yearling Sale, Zarita has put together the imposing record of four wins and two placing's from eight starts with earnings of $382,900.

Zarita’s win in the Angus Armanasco is the second victory in the race for her owners' who tasted success with Ballet Society also trained by Hyland.

“We bought another Pentire filly this year in New Zealand at the Karaka sales, a filly from Gemscay that is a full sister to Group One winner Penny Gem, so I’m happy to stick with the Pentire's.” 

A magnificent looking individual who was the most expensive yearling filly sired by Pentire in 2006, Zarita won a 1,000m maiden on debut indicating her ability and with the strong possibility of group one success she is a very valuable 'girl' for the breeding barn upon retirement.

Selected from the draft of Rich Hill Stud. Zarita is the second Group Two winner for her unraced dam Gin Player (by Defensive Play) joining the Pins gelding Run Like the Wind (seven wins).  Gin Player is a daughter of the Group 3 VRC Hilton on the Park Stakes heroine, Gin Rhythm (by Western Sympnony) a three-quarter sister-in-blood to the stakes winning,  Any Rhythm.

Zarita is yet another high class performer for Pentire who stood for NZ$19,500 last spring.  A proven stallion of versatile and consistent top class gallopers including Group One winners Xcellent, Penny Gem, Pantani, Recurring and Pentane.

Pentire has two yearlings catalogued for sale at the William Inglis Easter Select sale (April 20 - 24th).

February 18th, 2008

New Zealand's Rich Hill Thoroughbreds sire Pentire (Be My Guest-Gull Nook, by Mill Reef) added another stakes winner to his impressive profile when Richracer (ex Star Parade, by Crested Wave) scored a 1-3/4 length victory in the $75,000 Listed Port Adelaide Cup (2250m) at Cheltenham in Adelaide.

Ridden by Dean Yendall for Victorian trainer, John McArdle, Richracer defeated the group placegetter five-year-old Lacey Underall (Desert Sun - Flirty Ferdy by Ferdinand).  

Ready For More (More Than Ready-Golden Hanoof, by Slew O' Gold) was another three-quarters-of-a-length away in third.

Richracer has well and truly paid for himself with five wins and three placing's to his 16-start career he was purchased in New Zealand at the 2005 New Zealand Bloodstock Premier Sale from the draft of Rich Hill to the bid of Fisher Thoroughbreds where they gave $65,000 for him.

Pentire's progeny where showing his amazing versatility by siring three winners in New Zealand on Saturday, all of whom look destined for higher honours. At Ellerslie, Pentour (ex Our Lucy) continued his path towards the New Zealand Derby when winning the Don Ha Real Estate 2100m against the older horses. The good looking 3YO has always looked promising and he confirmed this with his second win from four starts. Provided he makes the field he could be a real threat to the more established 3YOs in the up coming New Zealand Derby. 

Meanwhile at New Plymouth, Pentura (ex Lucky Partner) gained automatic entry into the New Zealand Oaks field with a strong win in the 1800m for 3YO fillies. As the winner of the race she is now exempt from the ballot in the Group One feature. 

January 21st, 2008

Trainer Mike Moroney has confirmed that his best horse, Xcellent, will never race again following his win in the G3 Trentham stakes (2400m) in Wellington on Saturday.

In a double drama, New Zealand Cup winner Everswindell, third behind Xcellent and Three Chimneys, also pulled up lame and rider Noel Harris dismounted too, walking back to the birdcage. 

Xcellent ends his racing career with a record of 13 starts for eight wins, one second and one third and stake earnings of $1.64 million. Among his best wins were the 2004 New Zealand Derby and the 2005 Kelt Capital Stakes at Hastings.

Moroney’s roller coaster weekend concluded in the way he had feared from the moment he realised Michael Coleman had slid from the horse’s back, soon after passing the post.

  “By the time I got down stairs from the stand I saw on the television that the jockey was off him I was worried,” Moroney said.
Despite describing Xcellent as a ‘day-to-day proposition' Moroney said that before the race, the horse hadn’t shown any signs of the leg problems that had kept him off the track for more than 12 months leading up to last winter.
But the pressure of racing proved too much for the son of Pentire who showed such tremendous courage to win Saturday’s race coming from last.  Xcellent rolled out in the straight as he joined the lead and took a little more time than it appeared he would to seal his eighth win from 13 starts.

Coleman said Xcellent did not falter during the running of the race.

"We got there pretty quickly and then he gawked about a bit which he has done a bit in the past," Coleman said.

"Then he wandered about a bit but he didn't falter at that stage.
"But as soon as he pulled up to a trot he was pretty sore."

First thoughts were that Xcellent may have damaged a cannon bone.

But Moroney said yesterday the horse had bone chips in a joint and had suffered sever suspensory ligament damage.  He was being prepared for an international campaign, which included the Australian Cup at Flemington and a possible trip to Dubai for World Cup meeting in March.

At the forthcoming New Zealand Bloodstock sales series at Karaka Pentire is well represented he has eight yearlings in the Premier Sale (January 28th-29th) another 16 in the select session, January 30th until February 1st, and two in the Festival session (February 3rd-4th). Unfortunately, Pentire doesn't have any stock in the WA Magic Millions Perth Yearling Sale (Feb 15-22nd) or the William Inglis Premier Yearling Sale (March 1st-6th) in Victoria.

December 17th, 2007

Former New Zealand stayer Pentempo, claimed his fourth consecutive win in the Fielders Kingfloor Handicap (2200m), at Ascot on Saturday.  In doing so he consolidated his favouritism for the $400,000 BMW Perth Cup, 3200 metres, on January 1st. 

The Pentire gelding was sent out a short priced favourite and duly won the way you’d like to see a $1.40 chance win! 

He was ridden again on Saturday by Peter Hall, who gave Pentempo a beautiful ride settling him fifth on the outside within striking distance of the leaders. As they raced past the 600m post Hall started to urge Pentempo along and he then switched course back to the inside.  Getting a split as they straightened Pentempo just strode away from his rivals to claim the victory by four lengths from Nairobi (Galileo - Serengeti Park) a half-length in ahead of French Favorite (Favorite Trick - Sorboniere) in third.

After the race trainer Frank Maynard said “We will start him in the ATA Stakes on December 22, then it will be 10 days to the Perth Cup.”

“It’s never easy to win a Perth Cup and we still have some work to do with this bloke, but he’s tracking along nicely.”

Pentempo, had 23 starts in New Zealand for two wins, three seconds and five thirds, he has thrived since a transfer this year to Maynard's stable on the north-east outskirts of Perth.  the bay was bought by a WA sydndicate after finishing fourth over 1600 metres in New Zealand last January.

Maynard, has trained three Pert Cup winners gave Pentempo his start on October 31, when he ran third over 1400m at Ascot.  He then won over 1600m at Northam and 2200 metres and 2400m at Ascot.  Pentempo carried 57kilos on Saturday he has 53kg in the Perth Cup.  

Pentempo is out of the Sound Reason mare, Eulogize the winner of two races in New Zealand and a sister to the Group I New Zealand Cup winner, Soundoration.  She is also the dam of a very good jumper Pentacolo.

November 23rd, 2007

Rich Hill stallion, Pentire, underlined his value when he produced a double on Wednesday that included his 20th individual stakes winner when Sentire claimed the Listed Ballarat Cup (2200m) with ease. 

Trained by Robbie Laing, Sentire (ex Sent to War) was sent out as race favourite and didn't disappoint with a strong win under the guidance of Craig Williams. 

Sentire was bred by Veterinarian John O'Flaherty who last week received the good news that his mare, Sent to War had returned a positive pregnancy test to Pentire. 

A few minutes after Sentire's win in the Cup former New Zealand galloper, Pentempo, swept to victory at Ascot in Perth to win the Lexus of Perth Handicap (2200m) for leading trainer Frank Maynard. It was Pentempo's second win in succession since being sold out of Moira Murdoch's stable in New Zealand where the gelding was raced by his breeders John and Jacqui Todd. 

Back in New Zealand on Ballart Cup day, Pentire's stock were in strong demand at the New Zealand Bloodstock Ready To Run Sale. Pentire was amongst the top selling sires of the sale with his five lots all selling, averaging $128,600. His top price of $220,000, was given for a gelding out of Trinket Box. He was purchased by leading Queensland trainer Alan Bailey an hour before Sentire won the Ballarat Cup. 

Rich Hill Stud will offer another strong line up of yearlings by Pentire at the Karaka 2008 Sale Series.

November 4th, 2007

Rich Hill Stud's classy stallion Pentire has produced another top class winner on Saturday at Flemington when the lightly-raced filly Zarita delivered a knock out blow to her rivals when she took out the Group 2 Wakeful Stakes in stylish fashion.

Trained by 'Manikato's jockey' Pat Hyland, who always suspected Zarita was capable of something special after she won her maiden on debut over an unsuitable 1000m, she produced an ideal VRC Group I Oaks (2500m) trial having race just behind the speed, gathered in her rivals to win by a short neck.

Riva San (Any Given Sunday - Best River by Best Western) was second with Katherine Gold (Made of Gold - Dancing Fairy by Fairy King) another three-quarters of a length away in third.

Significantly more than 30 Wakeful Stakes winners have gone on to win the Oaks the following Thursday, including Saleous, thus elevating Zarita to equal favourite for the classic. 

"I have always had a big opinion of her (Zarita) and it has just been a matter of getting her fit and being a little bit patient," Hyland said. 

"She is by Pentire and has got everything going for her heading to the Oaks." 

Zarita was ridden by Greg Childs who said the Thousand Guineas didn't work out for her, where she had a tough run and got tightened at the 300 metres. 

"I was too aggressive in the Thousand Guineas but Pat and I decided to be a little bit quieter on her and she got the job done," Childs said. 

October 1st, 2007

Rich Hill Stud's classy stallion Pentire has produced three impressive winners over the last few days all of which are destined for higher honours as the season progresses. 

At Te Aroha last Wednesday Mufhasa (ex Sheila Cheval) had an effortless fresh up win over his older rivals in the Diprose Miller LTD Hcp 1200m. The Steve McKee trained gelding has always looked an exceptional talent and will now head towards the New Zealand 2000 Guineas.

Then at Ellerslie on Saturday Chase the Sun (ex Glimmer) justified his favouritism to win the St Patricks Hcp over 1400m. The lighty raced 4YO is held in very high regard by trainer Denise Jeffcoat. Denise maintains he is the best horse she has trained and she has put her money where her mouth is and booked her own mare to Pentire this season.

Meanwhile in Melbourne on Sunday, Zarita (ex Gin Player) had her odds for the Thousand Guineas and Oaks slashed after a very strong win over a classy field of fillies at Sandown. The Pat Hyland trained filly has now had two wins and a second from three starts for owner Bill Frost.

Both Mufhasa and Zarita were graduates of Rich Hill's 2006 Karaka yearling draft. Zarita was a $195 000 Premier filly while Mufhasa was a $50,000 Select yearling. There are a few nominations left to breed to Pentire this season. He looks set for a great season as his larger crops begin to hit the racetracks.

August 29th, 2007

Rich Hill stallion Pentire has again demonstrated what a versatile sire he is when a colt from his first German crop, Glentire, won the Kronimus-Rennen (LR) over 1200m at Baden-Baden in Germany last weekend.

Glentire (ex Glacial Storm by Royal Academy) was conceived when Pentire shuttled to Germany during his northern hemisphere duties.

Meanwhile in Australasia, Pentire has made his a great start to the 2007 southern hemisphere season already siring several promising horses. At Te Rapa on Foxbridge Plate Day the Tim Carter trained Raised on Rock (ex Forsaken Gold), was a class above his rivals when blitzing his maiden field over 1400m. Last Thursday at Mornington Pentiffic (ex Sailing High) won his maiden by 8-lengths!

Pentire, who is now permanent residence at Rich Hill will have a far larger racetrack representation this season with 87 rising 3YOs in some of Australasia's leading stables. There are still limited nominations available to Pentire at his 2007 service fee of $17,500 +gst.

July 11th, 2007

On Saturday at Sandown, Sentire, took out the Banjo Paterson (2400m) with a stylish win.

Sentire was ridden by Ben Melham, replacing a sick Dan Brereton, settled close to Hooker Road and Joontoo Gemini who took the field along at a moderate speed.  Joontoo Gemini got the upper hand of Hooker Road not longer after they had swung for home and Sentire grabbed her in a matter of strides to race away and score one of the easiest wins of the day by 3-1/2 lengths over The Sportsman (Kilmanjaro - lady Joelyn by Noble Bijou), who had worked home nicely.  Joontoo Gemini (Deputy Governor - Our Discretion by Twig Moss) was a long head away in third.

Sentire (ex Sent to War by Centaine), is prepared by Robbie Laing and in winning the Banjo Paterson he chalked up his fourth career win and took his prize money past $150,000. 

Sentire was bred by the O'Flaherty family at their Oughterard Farm in Waikato, New Zealand,  he had been passed in for $14,000 when offered at the 2003 New Zealand Bloodstock yearling sales at Karaka and later sold privately.  Sent To War, was a winner over 1600m in New Zealand and is also the dam of the multiple winners Tonic and Bohemian Dancer, both by Blues Traveller.

An hour earlier in Queensland, Pentire came agonisingly close to recording a second feature win, when his smart stayer Pentathon (ex Star Royal by Grosvenor) crossed the line a neck in arrears of Ice Chariot in the Group 3 Queens Cup (3200m) at Eagle Farm.

It was a big effort from Pentathon has he carried the number one saddle cloth and 58.5kg's.  

Pentathon has had a good winter in Queensland adding the Group 2 O'Shea Stakes to his nine win haul and will likely to go to the spelling paddock for a short spring spell before embarking on an autumn campaign in Sydney next year.

Sentire and Pentathon's proven Group 1 sire Pentire stands at Rich Hill Stud this spring $17,500.

June 3rd, 2007

At Eagle Farm on Saturday it was Queensland Oaks day with the card packed full of stakes events and one of the most exciting wins of the day came in the last race the Group Two O'Shea Stakes (2200m) when Pentathon claimed a last stride win.

Saddled up by colourful New Zealand trainer, John Wheeler, Pentathon was backing up after a great third in the Group I Doomben Cup (2400m) two weeks earlier.  With his jockey, Jason Taylor, wearing the colours of the great Rough Habit, also trained by Wheeler, the win sent all his supporters home with a smile.

The Brisbane winter carnival has been a popular destination with Wheeler, missing the bleak winter conditions in New Zealand, and Wheeler's mighty Rough Cast gelding Rough Habit captured six of his 11 Group 1 wins at the popular carnival - the club have subsequently named a bar after the gritty gelding. Twelve years ago, Rough Habit bid farewell to Australian racing with a memorable triumph in the same race.

Pentathon settled in last position with another New Zealander Gorgeous George setting a good tempo and just as it appeared that Grand Zulu would return to the winners enclosure, Gaze grabbed him and just when Gaze would take home the valuable prize, Pentathon rocketed home down the outside to grab her on the line to score by a long head.

Gaze (Cape Cross - Eye Full by Palatable) held Grand Zulu (Grand Lodge - Bravo Zulu by Military Plume) by a half-length.

Pentathon (ex Star Royal by Grosvenor) is a chestnut gelding and has only been to the races 39 times and with a record of nine wins and 10 placing's he has taken his earnings past $500,000.  

Wheeler has always held a high opinion of the slow maturing son of Pentire, who took six starts to break his maiden, but Wheeler told Sky Channel that he had a long term Melbourne Cup plan in place for the gelding. 

He indicated that Pentathon will start in the Group 2 Brisbane Cup (2400m) and then he will line up in the Caloundra Cup before he has a winter break in Queensland.  Wheeler will then prepare Pentathon for New Zealands summer carnival and if all goes well he will head to Sydney to contest the Sydney Cup the following autumn, before he contests the 2008 Melbourne Cup.

A $33,000 purchase by Wheeler at the NZ Bloodstock Select Colts sale, Pentathon is the third foal of the non winning Grosvenor mare Star Royal, a half sister to NZ Oaks (G1) winner Starline (Sir Tristram) and VRC Derby (G1) runner-up Acumen (Wolverton).   Second dam Star Lot (Imperialist) is a Group 2 winning half-sister to to Sky, the dam of Beechcraft, winner of the Group I Caulfield Guineas in 1983. 

Pentathon is one of 40 live foals from the fourth southern hemisphere crop of Pentire (GB). A racehorse of the highest class in Europe, Pentire was sold for stud duty in Japan, however it is in New Zealand where the son of Be My Guest has made his mark despite some indifference by local breeders. The year after Pentathon was foaled, Pentire left just 11 live foals. Two years later he covered 119 mares. 

The foundation stallion at Rich Hill Stud, where he will command a fee of $17,500 (+ gst) this spring, Pentire has left Group 1 winners Xcellent, Pantani, Pentane, Penny Gem, Recurring and Art Success. 

January 7th, 2007

At Sandown on the Hillside track, Rich Hill Stud's Pentire underlined his versatility when Pentacolo scored a solid win in the Sir Foote Handicap (1500m) on Saturday.

Pentacolo was a former galloping companion for three-time Melbourne Cup winner Makybe Diva.  However, Freedman, had told TVN that  the stable probably erred thinking he was a stayer. Although by Pentire, a noted sire of stayers, Pentacolo has too much speed and is yet to win beyond 1500 metres. 

"He has got ability but he can't run a trip - yet," Freedman told Shane Templeton. 

Pentacolo is out of the Sound Reason mare Eulogize, a winner of two races and a sister to the Group I Auckland Cup winner Soundoration.  

"He was bought as a stayer but we've tried him four or five times at staying trips and he's disappointed. 

"I looked at his record at shorter trips and when he's been fresh he has run really well and that was the idea behind running on Saturday. 

"He needs speed on, needs to be bottled up and he only has a furlong (200m) sprint." 

Ridden by Mark Zahra who rode to Freedman's instruction to the last letter, the race panned out perfectly for the four-year-old and he stormed home late to win by a half-length from Aussie Shout (Fuji Kiseki - Duelling Girl by Dayjur) with a nose back to Prince Raheed (Last Tycoon - Richelle by Century) in third. 

Pentire has 20 yearlings on offer at the Karaka Premier sale in New Zealand commencing January 29th.

November 20th, 2006

New Zealand based trainer John Wheeler enjoyed a great weekend with victories on both sides of the Tasman.  In Australia Arbitration, took out the Mix 101.1 Handicap in easy fashion.

Arbitration (Brief Truce - Solamina by Scenic) was coming off a solid class 3 victory at Sale over 1400m easily made the transmission to the stronger event on Saturday at Sandown on the Lakeside course.

Ridden by Michael Rodd, Arbitration won by a length from Maloose (Redoute's Choice - Classic Plume by Military Plume). 

While in New Zealand, Wheeler saddled up the Group 2 New Zealand Cup (3200m) winner, Pentathon at Riccarton, Christchurch.

Ridden by Noel Harris, Pentathon, highlighted the stamina benefits of his sire Pentire, when he out stayed Cluden Creek, the 2004 Group I Wellington Cup winner, in a length-of-the-straight duel. 

Pentathon had earlier showed some of his staying promising when fourth to Art Success in the Brisbane Cup (3200m) at Eagle Farm during the winter. Settling mid-field for his rider Noel Harris, they didn't began to improve until rounding the home turn, finding the front  wide out at the top of the straight Pentathon was then challenged strongly on the inner by Cluden Creek.

They fought it out all the way down the straight with Pentathon prevailing by a long head.

Pentathon is from the non-winning Star Royal by Grosvenor from the former stakes winning Star Lot, by Imperialist from Starlit.  Starlit won seven races in New Zealand including the WRC Telegraph and ARC Railway Stakes, both at 1200m.  At stud, she has left New Zealand Oaks winner, Star Lot and Sky, who in turn has left Beechcraft, winner of the Group I Caulfield Guineas and Canterbury Guineas.

Wheeler paid just NZ$33,000 at the New Zealand Select Colts sale on behalf of the horses owners' Rod Baulcomb of Auckland and Martin Ralston from Melbourne. 

November 14th, 2006

Pentire's remarkable crop of foals that he sired during the 2001/02 season continues to achieve some amazing statistics. There have already been three individual Group One winners conceived from this one crop, Xcellent, Pentane and Art Success. 

So the victory by Pentathon in Saturday’s Group 3 Metropolitan Trophy at Riccarton in New Zealand has a crop of only 40 foals, Rich Hill Stud's number one stallion has sired four individual group winners. A 10 % ratio of group winners to foals an amazing strike rate.

Pentathon (ex Star Royal) was bred by well known racing identity Tom Jamison and is now a short priced favourite to win the Group 2 New Zealand Cup next Saturday.

If Pentire can maintain this strike rate when his larger crops hit the racetrack in the next few seasons he will achieve many more notable milestones. 

September 26th, 2006

Top New Zealand horseman Lance O'Sullivan has some unfinished Melbourne Cup business to complete at Flemington racecourse on the first Tuesday in November.

O'Sullivan is heading to Victoria's spring carnival with leading Melbourne Cup prospect Pentane (ex Tuff One by Prince Raider) who produced a barnstorming finish to win the Listed Jim and John Evans Ltd Classic (1670m) at Paeroa on Saturday.

It represented the seventh win from 13 starts for Pentane and added to an outstanding record which already features a Group 1 victory over 3200m in last season's Auckland Cup at Ellerslie. 

Pentane will now chase the Group 1 $1 million Kelt Capital Stakes (2040m) at Hastings on October 7.  If successful he will be given his chance in the Caulfield Cup (2400m) at Caulfield on October 21 followed by the Mackinnon Stakes (2000m) at Flemington on November 4 before he contests the Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington three days later.

Pentane will be ridden by Brett Prebble in his Melbourne engagements. Saturday's winning jockey, apprentice Chad Ormsby, will most likely retain the mount on the gelding for the Group 1 Kelt Capital Stakes (2040m).

O'Sullivan said the Melbourne Cup is still the single race everyone involved in horse racing in Australasia dreams of winning.

In 1985 O'Sullivan came within a whisker of winning the race as a jockey when Korrie Corrie May (Sir Tristram x Corrie Maree by Kurdistan), trained by his father Dave and brother Paul, finished second behind What A Nuisance.

O'Sullivan said after Saturday's race that everything was perfectly on target for the Melbourne Cup with Pentane.

"I would have been happy if he finished in the first four home in last Saturday's race and the main thing was to see him running home well," O'Sullivan said. 

"The face he won the race was a bonus and he's come through the race like he hadn't even had a run," O'Sullivan said. 

"He has come up stronger this campaign and is a more mature horse," O'Sullivan said. "He's very robust and nothing much worries him at the races."

O'Sullivan has decided on using Cranbourne as the spring carnival base in Melbourne for Pentane who is owned by his Auckland breeders, Peter and Michael Fraher.

The dam of Pentane, Tuff One (Prince Raider x Poppy by Old Soldier), has been served this year by Rich Hill Stud stallion Pentire. 

July 2nd, 2006

What a fantastic quarter the versatile stallion Pentire has had with Art Success saluting in the Group I Brisbane Cup at Eagle Farm culminating with the quinella in the $250,000 Grand National Hurdle at Flemington on Saturday with Busby Glenn and his stablemate Sir Pentire.

Since May, Pentire, has produced the listed Warstep Stakes second placegetter, Lady Atire (ex Lady Acumen by Sound Reason) on May 6th then seven days later Art Success took out the Group 3 Chairman's Handicap.  During June, Sir Pentire, took out the VRC George Watson Hurdle and on the same day Art Success finished second in the Group 2 QTC P J O'Shea Stakes (2400m), a race run under weight-for-age conditions.  Art Success (ex Zabelette by Zabeel) followed that great run with a strong win in the Group I Brisbane Cup (3200m), with Pentathon (ex Star Royal by Grosvenor) finishing fourth in the same race. 

On the other side of Australia in Perth, Penrite (ex Northford by Sackford), took out the WATC Protonella Class 6 H (1700m) then at the end of the month, June 24th, Busby Glenn (ex Lady Acumen by Sound Reason), showed his courage to nose out the short priced favourite in the Moonee Valley Dominant Hurdle (3200m).

On Saturday, Busby Glenn backed up his game win of last weekends to claim the $250,000 feature at Flemington.  The Grand National is equally as  rich jumps event on the racing calendar with this Saturday's Grand National Steeple (4500m). 

Busby Glenn settled beautifully for cross-country jockey Bill Williams his first Grand National victory when he held out Sir Pentire (ex Privilege by Sir Tristram) by a short neck with Vazoom (Zabeel - Zametta by Zamazaan) three lengths away third. 

The pace was very slow early, with Tadakatsu leading before Ima Tycoon took over with a lap to go.  Busby Glenn, part-raced by Williams' wife Sally and her uncle Chris Biggs, other family and friends and Melbourne racing commentator Dean Lester, settled in third the winning move by Williams.

Ima Tycoon led to the 800m, but Sir Pentire and Busby Glenn grabbed him shortly afterwards.  They drew away to fight the race out, going over the last hurdle together with Busby Gleen being a shade too strong.  Vazoom worked home fairly, but couldn't match the first two.

Both horses are trained by Robbie Laing who commented on TVN after the race "They're a tough breed the Pentire's."  

"A dead-heat would have been a fitting result. The good track certainly helped both of them." 

Laing did a magnificent job with Busby Glenn to get him right for the Grand National Hurdle after the six-year-old ran second to Real Tonic in the gruelling Grand Annual Steeple (5500m) at Warrnambool just eight weeks ago. 

"He's the toughest horse in training and my plan was basically to have him handy," Williams said. 

"You have to give Robbie Laing 200 out of 100." 

Laing said both Busby Glenn and Sir Pentire would back up in the Grand National Steeple at Flemington this Saturday.

June 13th, 2006

Cranbourne trainer, Jon Collins, took out the Brisbane Cup (3200m) in sensational style with his four-year-old son of Pentire, Art Success.

Holidazle, ridden by Lisa Cropp went to the front early and set a solid tempo, while Tony Patillo on Art Success, slotted in just off the speed racing in the first half of the field.  Waiting until the final furlong, Patillo was able to edge Art Success clear of New Zealander Gorgeous George at the end of the tough slog down the Eagle Farm straight in testing conditions. 

The young New Zealander, Sculptor, who backed up from his fourth in the Queensland Derby on Saturday, ran his heart out to finish a brave and encouraging third. 

Owned by Troy Mobbs, who owns a direct sales company in Jakarta, who had a share in the ill-fated Maguire, who said 

"After Maguire's death, Jon and I made a pact then to find another horse and come back to win the Brisbane Cup," said Mobbs. Giving all of the credit for the victory to Collins. 

Collins, 34, is originally from New Zealand. 

Collins, spends a lot of time looking at videos of New Zealand races trying to identify young horses he can develop into stayers. 

"I saw this horse run very well against older horses in a fast-run maiden race on Wellington Cup day," Collins said. 

He bought Art Success for $112,000 18 months ago and brought him to Queensland last winter to run in the Queensland Derby at Eagle Farm. Art Success wrenched a fetlock joint and didn't run in the derby but recovered late in the carnival to win two restricted staying races. 

Collins will now set Art Success for the Melbourne Cup but appreciates his four-year-old is going to meet much sterner opposition at Flemington. 

"I know he has to improve. But he can," Collins said. 

With the margin only a long neck, the Art Success victory came on the back of a superb ride from Tony Pattillo. 

"I thought about five or six horses off the fence was the place to be," Pattillo said. 

"I followed Mahtoum and had a perfect spot. When some of the others went really wide I was happy to stay in closer until the straight. 

Art Success is the third foal produced by the Zabeel mare Zabelette. Her five-year-old daughter Zeebee (Danske) only faced the starter once and is retired while the other is an unraced three-year-old filly named Russian Belle (by Stravinsky).

Art Success was Pentire's sixth group one winner and he was bred by the Hong Kong based Roger Lam.  Pentire’s service fee this spring at Rich Hill stud is $20 000 (plus gst) with a live foal guarantee. 

June 6th, 2006

Sir Pentire loves Flemington and on Saturday having his first start over hurdle's in the George Watson where he came up triumphant.

Sir Pentire was ridden by Steve Pateman and they took up the running and set a good tempo in front, with Some Are Bent tailing him.  As the field thundered to the third last hurdle, Some Are Bent took up the running.  However, Sir Pentire wasn't to be denied as he got up off the canvas to join and head Some Are Bent to draw away from him on the line by 1-1/2 lengths.

Prince Of Scribes (Runyon - River Royal by River of Light) a neck away in third..

Trained by Robbie Laing, who described the Pentire six-year-old as a great jumps prospect and he had plenty of improvement in him as a jumper.

Sir Pentire was a very good flat performer claiming the VRC St Leger in 2003.

Sir Pentire will now line up in the $250,000 Grand National Hurdle (4300m) at Flemington on July 1.

Later in the day in Queensland, Art Success turned in a grand Brisbane Cup trial when second to Mahtoum in the Group 2 PJ O'Shea Stakes (2400m) at Eagle Farm.

The John Collins-trainee drops to 51kg for the Brisbane Cup (3200m), Saturday week while the 2005 Sydney Cup winner Mahtoum is topweight with 56kg.

Final acceptances for the three Group One races will be taken tomorrow, Wednesday 7th June, when the make-up of Saturday's $1 million Stradbroke Hcp (1400m) will also be decided.

May 29th, 2006

Roger James has had plenty of success in Australia with his horses and on Saturday at Doomben he produced Gemstone to win the Hardy Brothers Jewellers Handicap (1620) in very nice style.

Having her first outing for more than six weeks, Gemstone, settled well for her rider Michael Rodd in fifth position behind the early leader Fiery Sunset, who took the field along at a solid tempo.  Rodd got Gemstone out into the clear and accounted for the well supported Mr hornblower (Admiralty - Anika Joy by Tirrol) by a neck.  

Gemstone is a four-year-old daughter of Pentire out of Gemscay (Maizcay) and that win was her sixth. She still has a long way to catch up to her full-sister Penny Gem, winner of  Group I Captain Cook Stakes at Wellington.  The family has plenty of depth as Gemscay's dam Jewel Box (by Nassu) is a sister to the Group I Railway Handicap winner Alynda.

Back in New Zealand at the Te Teko meeting in Whakatane another Pentire filly Lionstar was successful in the Liquor King 2100 to record her first win at her fourth start. 

A nicely bred three-year-old daughter of Star Parade, a half sister to Armstrong, Spiritual Star and Star on Ice, all group winners. Lionstar is raced by Rich Hill Stud and the Blue and Gold syndicate- a keen bunch of rugby league fans, several of whom are members of the Xcellent syndicate. 

Both Gemstone and Lionstar have Pentire full brothers to be sold at Karaka next year.

May 14th, 2006

Hardly a season passes without Pentire producing a promising horse.  In Queensland on Saturday another was revealed when Art Success won the Chairman's Hcp (2020m) at Doomben on Saturday.

Trained by John Collins, who had hatched a plan 12 months ago to win the Brisbane Cup came a step closer, Art Success (ex Zabelette by Zabeel) aided by a rails run from jockey Tony Pattillo, produced a stunning performance from last on the home turn to down fellow Brisbane Cup hope Game On (Zabeel - Showtime by Famous Star) by a length. 

Hello Possums (Semipalatinsk - Louise Louise by Mendham) filled the minor placing a nose away. 

Collins has been going to Brisbane since his ill-fated stayer Maguire finished third in the 2000 Queensland Derby (2400m) at Eagle Farm. However, the 3200m Brisbane Cup has been a hoodoo race for Collins each time he has tried to win the Group One race. Maguire returned to Queensland and started favourite in the 2003 Brisbane Cup but was put down after he broke his leg in a fall. 

Collins and two of Maguire's part-owners Troy and John Mobb returned last winter trying to win the Cup with Devastating but he was ruled out after undergoing an operation for a throat abscess. 

Collins bought Art Success after he had five runs in New Zealand and wintered him in Queensland last year where he won three times in seven runs. 

The Cranbourne-based trainer returned to Queensland this winter on another Brisbane Cup mission with Devastating and Art Success but the former was ruled out of a Cup tilt with a knee injury following his Hollindale Stakes defeat at the Gold Coast last weekend. 

Collins has no doubt Art Success will handle the Brisbane Cup trip and is tempted to run the four-year-old in next week's Group One Doomben Cup (2200m) at Doomben. 

"He had five runs in New Zealand when I first got him and I set him for this race when I brought him up here last winter," Collins said. 

"I've always liked him as a Brisbane Cup horse and he's bred for stamina." 

Pattillo rode Art Success in his Sunshine Coast victory last start and was never worried when he dropped back to last from his wide barrier. 

"The plan from out there was always to just drop out and get over to the fence even though he would be last," Pattillo said. 

"The speed of the race wasn't fast and all his runs along the fence just came at the right time." 

The Group One Brisbane Cup (3200m) is held at Eagle Farm on June 12. 

April 10th, 2006

Trainer Robbie Laing looks to be in for a bumper jumps season if his winning Pentire double with Busby Glenn and Sir Pentire at Moonee Valley is any indication. 

Sir Pentire is being prepared for a tilt at the $250,000 Grand National Hurdle (4300m) at Flemington on July 1 while Busby Glenn is being readied for next month's $140,000 Grand Annual Steeplechase (5500m) at Warrnambool. 

Ridden by apprentice Nikita Beriman, Sir Pentire (ex Privilege by Sir Tristram) scored a grinding head victory in the Winbet Hcp (3000m) beating Intriguing (Zabeel - Curious Affair by Alleged) by a head with topweight Hong Kong Cheri (Danasinga - Mon Cheri by Straight Strike) 3-1/4 lengths away third. 

The six-year-old is likely to run on the flat in the Listed $150,000 Andrew Ramsden Stakes (3200m) at Flemington on May 20 on his way to the Grand National. 

Busby Glenn, who scored an impressive win in the Bob Barr Smith Hurdle (3210m), is raced by Sally Williams, wife of jumps jockey Bill Williams who rode the gelding to victory, and racing commentator Deane Lester, along with seven other stable clients. 

He is a half-brother to Adelaide Cup winner The A Train out of Sound Reason mare Lady Acumen. 

A winner over the bigger fences at Warrnambool over 3450m last October, Busby Glenn wasn't expected to win over the hurdles. Williams gave him a ground-saving ride on the fence and he was far too good scoring by 3-1/4 lengths from Aquila Street (Grosvenor - Cymbidium by Centaine) with topweight Sadler Joh (Johan Quatz - Fer de Cheval by Wolverton) 2-1/4 lengths away third. 

"Bill rode him a treat. The horse loves Moonee Valley and it was just a super run. He never put a foot wrong," Laing's stable manager Brent Crawford said. 

Busby Glenn, who has raced eight times over the jumps, could be freshened up after Warrnambool for a crack at the $200,000 Hiskens Steeple (3000m) at Moonee Valley on July 29, a race Laing won for the first time last year with Sissano. 

February 26th, 2006

In New Zealand on Saturday, Pentane turned in  a dazzling display to win the Stanley Group 2000m event at Matamata on Saturday.

Trained by Lance O'Sullivan, the win sent Pentane (ex Tuff One by Prince Raider) to the head of the betting charts for the Group 1 $600,000 Skycity Auckland Cup (3200m) to be run at Ellerslie on Wednesday March 8.

Thames Cup winner, Desert Flight set a torrid pace through much of the event, so it was no surprise to Pentane settle well back in the running. With a furlong to run, Pentane was still five or six off Shinko Prince who looked to have the race within his grasp. However under the urgings of jockey Jason Waddell, Pentane suddenly found an extra gear and turned on an explosive finishing burst to get up and beat Shinko Prince by a neck.

The manner in which he won saw him immediately overtake the previous favourite Genebel (Generous x Twinklebelle) in the NZ TAB fixed odds betting market for the Auckland Cup. 

October 2nd, 2005

New Zealand champion Xcellent took the next step in his career with a brilliant win in the Kelt Capital Stakes at Hastings on Saturday and will now head to Australia for the Cox Plate in three weeks time.

Trainer Mike Moroney believes that the weight-for-age race was a better option than the Caulfield Cup, October 15th, then he will head towards the Melbourne Cup, November 1st.

Xcellent has won six of his seven starts, four at Group One level, but his only trip to Australia was a disaster when he struck a wet track for the AJC Australian Derby in March and finished eighth.

Backed into short priced favourite for the Kelt, Xcellent lived right up to his star billing by giving a good field a head start and a sound beating. 

The Pentire gelding came from last at the 700m, and 14 lengths off the lead, to win by a conservative 1-1/4 lengths.

Such was Xcellent's amazing acceleration that he swept from near last to first in just a matter of strides, and was knocked sideways on the point of the home turn while doing it by second placegetter, Distinctly Secret.

Distinctly Secret had angled out inside Xcellent as the pair started to mount their runs and whacked into the side of Xcellent, but the bump didn't deter the gelding and continued on his way to victory.

Later in the day back in Australia at Doomben, Prosecution (ex Fascinating by No Sale George) resumed from a short break to take out the conditions Handicap (1350m) by a long neck from Little Punc (Dantibes - Countess Kwila by Mister Kwila). 

August 28th, 2005

Plans may be revised for Xcellent following his breathtaking win in the Group One Mudgway Stakes at Hastings on Saturday.  It had been planned to peak Xcellent for the $5 million Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington on November 1. The plans may include the weight-for-age championship of the year the W S Cox Plate (2040m) at Moonee Valley on October 22.

"The Melbourne Cup was his main aim, probably is still his main, but how we get there is possibly going to be different. A race like the Cox Plate now looms as a strong possibility," said Paul Moroney. 

"But it's nice to have a horse for which you can contemplate attacking either one or both of them (Cox Plate and Melbourne Cup)."

Paul Moroney said he would be under pressure from his brother to send Xcellent to his Flemington stables sooner rather later but there was a determination from connections to remain in New Zealand for the $1 million weight-for-age Kelt Capital Stakes (2040m) at Hastings on October 1.

"There's a million dollar race here and that's what we would like to come back for .... it's been our early aim all the way through."

Paul Moroney could hardly believe what he witnessed on Saturday.

Xcellent settled 12-lengths off the early pace set by Miss Potential - to scorch the turf over the last 500m to claim his third Group I. He was having his first start since failing in the AJC Australian Derby in Sydney in March.

Miss Potential, the favourite, held second after making the pace while half a neck away in third was Shinzig who raced outside the leader most of the way.

In the meantime back in Australia, Pentire chalked up his second major winner for the day when his promising staying son Devastating (ex La Chataigne by Khozaam) carried top weight of 60kgs to claim the Body And Soul Beauty Clinic Handicap (2020m) at Doomben.

Ridden by Jim Byrne, Devastating, travelled towards the rear of the six-horse field, with a muddling tempo set enhancing his effort, Devastating rounded his opponents up to score by a half-length from Bohemian Dancer (Blues Traveller - Sent to War by Centaine) with another 3-1/4 lengths back to the third horse Rue the Saint (Poliuto - Rue St Honore by Bonhomie). 

August 15th, 2005

More good news for Pentire on top of Xcellent being crowned New Zealand's 'Horse of the Year' on Friday night in Christchurch, classy Victorian stayer Devastating burst into spring carnival contention with a sensational comeback win in the Exhibition Hcp (1815m) at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

Runner-up in last year's Queensland Derby, Devastating (ex La Chataigne by Khozaam) made a one-act affair of the Exhibition to down Step Ahead (Entrepreneur - Tennesse magic by Bletchingly) by 3-1/2 lengths with Bohemian Dancer (Blues Traveller - Sent to War by Centaine) a short head away third.

Devastatings' win ended a worrying time for trainer John Collins who was at a loss to explain the stayer's lacklustre performances during the Brisbane winter carnival.  He had lost form after his eye-catching third to Platinum Scissors (Danehill)  in the Hollindale Stakes (1800m) at the Gold Coast in May, failing in both the Doomben Cup (2200m) and O'Shea Stakes (2400m) at Eagle Farm.

"It was Darren Beadman who picked up the problem," said Collins.

"He knew something was seriously wrong so we scoped him and found he had a lacerated throat."

After an operation to remove a flap of skin on his palate, Collins put Devastating back into work and gave him a trial at the Gold Coast on Tuesday.

Collins now plans to give Devastating one more run over 2000 metres at Doomben in a fortnight before aiming for the Group Three Newcastle Gold Cup (2300m) on September 15, with his main mission being the Group One Metropolitan Hcp (2400m) at Randwick on October 1.

"All going well he'll go home then to Victoria where he's been nominated for the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups," he said.

August 15th, 2005

Pentire's Derby winner Xcellent won the New Zealand 'Horse of the Year' title on Friday night in Christchurch.

Xcellent was unbeaten in New Zealand during 2004-05 winning the Group I New Zealand Derby at his third start and then beat his elders in a Group I event under weight-for-age conditions at his fourth outing.

The Pentire gelding also claimed honours as the country's leading three-year-old.  Trained by Mike Moroney and Andrew Scott, who were to give the four-year-old his season piper opener at Te Rapa last Saturday, decided against it as the track conditions were too heavy, instead, Xcellent will gallop at Taupo in the company of his stablemate, Clean Sweep (End Sweep).

Plans are for Xcellent to contest the $200,000 Mudgway Stakes (1400m) at Hastings on August 27, with his major target during the spring being the Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington on November 1.

"It's the most valuable race, we feel he'll run the 3200m and this might be the year he'll get into the race with the lightest weight," said Moroney. 

"We arrived at the race then worked backwards with four, perhaps five races as a lead-up.

"The problem we have is that for a Melbourne Cup you ideally need a plan and setting a definitive plan in New Zealand in the spring is difficult because of our wet tracks.

"The luxury we do have is that we have a horse we know we can get ready on the training track if necessary. We can make use of things like exhibition gallops." 

Xcellent was bred by Dannevirke man Graham Gimblett and was purchased by Matamata bloodstock consultant Paul Moroney at the 2003 Karaka Premier Sale for $45,000.

His owners are Kevin Breingan, Paul Moroney, G K V Holdings Ltd, Mike Gatt, Phil Heath, Dave Nicholson and the Wellington Racing Syndicate.

July 17th, 2005

Another New Zealand based stallion, Pentire is having a good month starting off with a bang in Singapore recording a double on the first day of the month. 

Pandora (ex Rue Lazane by Imposing) took out an Open Benchmark (1800m) and Pow to the Moon (ex Miss Tessla by Crested Wave) won over the sprint distance of 1200m also an the open level.   

Back in Australia, Pentiara (ex Lady Acumen by Sound Reason) scored a huge 3.3-length win at Sandown on the Lakeside course over 1600m, July 6th.

May 9th, 2005

Consistent gelding Botero claimed his seventh career victory showing a bit of courage at Flemington on Saturday.

When we are generally praising jockey's for good winning rides, Anthony Darmanin's ride on Botero (ex Another Sound by Sound Reason) wasn't the best.  With Darmanin having him three wide from the 1000m behind Mr Murphy (Danehill - Marscay's Dream by Marscay).  

Approaching the 250m Blessum appeared to be struggling while Botero stuck to his task and although Mr Murphy is a group one winner the weight took its toll on the seven-year-old. With a nice weight advantage Botero claimed Mr Murphy for a half-head victory.  

I Do Blue (Blues Traveller - Wedding Wish by Zamazaan) ran home hard when the race was all over to finish three-quarters-of-a-length away in third.

March 21st 2005

Pentire's son Pantani, was the talk of the track at Flemington on Saturday when he took out the Andrew Ramsden Stakes (registered name: Duke of Norfolk (3200m)), in his first run for 19 weeks. 

Trainer Robbie Laing resorted to an unorthodox programme with Pantani (ex Dewamar by Marscay), who he describes as an out-and-out stayer. As part of his build-up to Saturday's marathon he ran the six-year-old in two trials at Cranbourne 12 days beforehand. 

Pantani gave his rivals all a start at the top of the straight and was too good with 1-1/4 lengths between himself and Bondy (Entrepreneur - Inquist by Imposing) with another 1-1/2 lengths to Elwood (Touching Wood - Skai Glory by All Glory) third.

Future plans for Pantani is to run in the Sydney Cup in two weeks' time, if Laing can get to Sydney the day before the race as Pantani does not like being away from home, with another 3200m start in the Adelaide and Brisbane Cups and ultimately, the most famous race at that distance, the Melbourne Cup. 

Kia Ora Stud as agent will offer a half-brother to the dual Group One winner by Carnegie (IRE) as Lot 443 at the Easter yearling sale in Sydney.

March 15th, 2005

Caulfield trainer Peter Moody grabbed another big provincial prize when talented galloper Davidoff won Sunday's Stony Creek Cup. 

Davidoff (ex Ellena Dawn by Drums of Time), had contested numerous Group One races as a three-year-old before injury sidelined him for over 12 months. 

"I’ve only had him this preparation and he’s had eight runs this time in, so we’ll just take it run by run from here,” said Moody.

“He really did show a lot of ability as a three year-old, but I doubt that he will ever recapture that form after his injury.

“In the short term we might look at the Easter Cup at Caulfield and if he’s still up and going well at the end of May we will have a look at the Warrnambool Cup.”

March 6th, 2005

Pentire's star three-year-old Xcellent removed any doubts that he has the ability to extend his unbeaten record beyond New Zealand when he romped to victory in the Group I Darley Stakes at Ellerslie on Saturday.

Big plans are now on the drawing board, starting with the AJC Australian Derby at Randwick later this month, extending to the Caulfield Cup in Melbourne next spring and later including internationally recognised races such as the Cox Plate and Japan Cup.

Despite lining up as favourite on Saturday, there was still some doubt that Xcellent could deliver, given that he was having his first start since taking the Mercedes Derby 10 weeks earlier. Winning the autumn feature would not be unique for his age group - six three-year-olds had already done so in the previous three decades - but to do so off such a preparation most certainly would be. 

But in adopting a 'European' style preparation, trainers Mike and Paul Moroney were placing their faith in their latest stable star as well as giving him what they considered his best chance to remain unbeaten. 

"The obvious race to go for fresh-up was the Great Northern Guineas at 1600 metres," said Paul Moroney, who had played a pivotal role as Xcellent's managing part-owner long before he found himself just a week ago joining his brother as a training partner. 

"But we were worried that his style of racing might have made that more of a gut-buster than a more flowing sort of 2000 metre race. We knew from giving him a month between races before he won the derby that the distance wouldn't be a worry and the weight-for-age conditions were another factor.

"When I put those ideas in front of Mike a few weeks ago he took them on board and to his credit then gave the go-ahead."

From that point all of Xcellent's training was geared to distance racing. Even after returning from a three-week post-derby spell carrying excess condition, his first fast work was over ground rather than a shorter, sharper distance.

Xcellent, who still needs further development to completely fill out his big frame, paraded on Saturday looking ready for the task at hand. And so it proved. He settled well off the pace but nowhere near as distant as in the big field he had encountered in the Derby, and gradually built up momentum to be within striking distance of the pacemaking St Reims (Zabeel) at the top of the straight.

"I knew I had it won with 500 metres to run," said regular rider Michael Coleman. "He was coming up under me and starting to take ground off the horses in front. In the end he did it easily."

Coleman, who has for several years been No. 1 jockey for the Moroneys' Ballymore Stables, was on Saturday even more than ever a man of few words. The reason for this was the severe wasting regime he had undertaken during the week to make Xcellent's 52.5kg weight, leaving him very drained and capable of only absolutely necessary functions.

That he left Ellerslie on Saturday evening with a four-win bag speaks volumes for Coleman's professional approach as well as his overall skill. He has retained the mount for the AJC Derby, for which Xcellent is now favourite. The week earlier third placing in the Canterbury Guineas by Cheval De Troy (NZ) (Zabeel) was a ready alert to Xcellent's prospects should he also head to Sydney, while Saturday's performance has now stamped him as the horse to beat in the Randwick classic.

Xcellent was a tentative entry in next month's Audemars Piguet Queen Elizabeth Cup 11 in Hong Kong, but a spell following his one Sydney race will be the priority. That will allow ample time to prepare him for spring racing, which at this stage is likely to entail a first-up start in the feature 1600 metre event at Hastings in September, followed by the 2040 metre Kelt Capital Stakes as a prelude to the Caulfield Cup.

"That's all a big enough call this far out," says Paul Moroney, "but beyond that we'd like to think he's a Cox Plate and Japan Cup type of horse as a five-year-old. 

"As we all know a lot can happen along the way, but you've got to start planning and hope for everything to fall into place. One thing we do know is that we've got the material to make those sort of plans for." 

The Queen Elizabeth Cup in Hong Kong is still a possible target for St Reims, who never flinched but could not match the finishing sprint of his lighter weighted rival on Saturday. His most likely interim target is the 2000 metre Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Randwick on April 2. 

The racing career of Lashed (Encosta de Lago) ended with a solid late finish for third. She will now retire to Cambridge Stud safely in foal to Zabeel. 

February 27th, 2005

Not often things go to plan, but that's what happened at Caulfield on Saturday when Botero was able to dictate the pace to land the prize in the Premier Signs Plate (1800m).

In winning his fifth race from 23-starts, Botero (ex Another Sound by Sound Reason) has been able to string together three wins in a row by leading.  

Ridden by Blake Shinn, the son of Pentire was given more rein nearing the turn to have him high-balling and a healthy lead making it impossible for any of rivals to run Botero down.

Botero had half-a-length on Personal Image (Personal Flag - All Imagination by Loosen Up) at the wire.  

February 21st, 2005

Rich Hill Stud stallion Pentire was in the headlines with a winning double at Singapore's Kranji track over the weekend. Imperial Lad scored his second win with victory over 1800 metres, while Pandora opened his account over 1400 metres. 

Both geldings are trained by Charles Leck, the champion Singapore trainer two seasons ago who is now in second place to title-holder Laurie Laxon, while they were ridden by stable apprentice Sheryl Cheam. 

Waikato Stud's Danasinga, who had three winners close to home at the Matamata meting on Saturday, added another when his son Sekitobe (Danasinga) broke through for his maiden win at Kranji. The New Zealand-bred innings was completed by another maiden winner, Magical Way (Magic Of Sydney). 

New Zealand breds also won four races in Hong Kong, on Sunday, headed by consistent galloper Being Famous (Gold Brose). The Paramount Stud product took his recent record to five wins from his last six starts with victory in the class two 1400 metre event at Sha Tin. 

Fashion Jewellery (Entrepreneur) took his tally to three wins with a class three 1600 metre success, while Sand Dance (Sandtrap) added win number two over 1200 metres and Victory Treasure (Zabeel) opened his account over 1800 metres. 

January 24th, 2005

Pentire's progeny are red hot at the moment with another Group 2 victory in Japan on the weekend. His son Craft Work took out the G2 American Jockey Club Cup (2200m) at Nakayama racecourse.

It was the third group race success posted by Craft Work, winning by a comfortable one-and-a-half length margin.

Craft Work is a half-brother to Japan's Group 3 winner, Craftsmanship (French Deputy). Their dam, Working Girl, won three times and is also the dam of three other individual winners.

The Japan success continued a fine period for Pentire, who stands at Rich Hill Stud in New Zealand, following a Gr. 1 double in New Zealand over Christmas-New Year. His three-year-old son, Xcellent (NZ), won the Gr. 1 Mercedes Derby at Ellerslie on Boxing Day while his daughter, Recurring (NZ), took out the Gr. 1 Railway Handicap (1200m) at Ellerslie on January 1.

Pentire will be well represented, including 18 entries in the Premier Session, at the upcoming Karaka Yearling Sales in New Zealand which commence next Monday (January 31). 

January 21st 2005

A convincing win in restricted age-group company in New Zealand at Te Rapa on Wednesday was the sign trainer Moira Murdoch was looking for to step her promising filly Gemstone up to group company.

Gemstone (ex Gemscay by Maizcay) completed a hat-trick of wins in the Belle Femme 2000, satisfying her trainer that she could cope with a firm track as well as a middle-distance. "She's been a slow maturing filly who I haven't been keen to push," Murdoch explained afterwards. "Now that she's passed those two hurdles I'm happy to look at something richer."

The race in mind for Gemstone is the Group 2 Cambridge Stud Sir Tristram Fillies' Classic over the same 2000 metre course on February 12. As a sister to group one-winning racemare Penny Gem she is already very valuable, but a win in group company on her own account would increase that status considerably. 

Murdoch trains the little brown for her breeders, Rich Hill Stud partners John Thompson and Allan Galbraith and Doug and Adrienne Alderslade. Murdoch and her husband Michael raced the Cox Plate winner Solvit (Morcon) in partnership with the Alderslades, Adrienne being Michael's sister. 

January 2nd, 2005

Recurring proved too strong to claim New Zealand's richest handicap sprint the Railway Handicap at Ellerslie in Auckland on Saturday. 

Recurring, trained at Rosehill by Gerald Ryan, settled mid-field in the group one 1200m event and after being angled out in the home straight, finished resolutely to score convincingly. 

The win completed a notable double for his sire Pentire with Xcellent winning the Derby on Boxing Day. 

Bred in New Zealand, Recurring's dam Donna's Habit (Ashabit) has produced eight winners including another Group I winner Lady Madonna (Kingdom Bay) winner of the Telegraph Hcp along with her full siblings listed winner Donna's Gold and the stakes placed Tudor Bay.

Recurring is to stay in New Zealand with the Telegraph Handicap, run on January 22, next on her agenda. 

Recurring, a temperamental five-year-old mare, was ridden today by one of New Zealand's leading riders, Hayden Tinsley, a nephew of Queensland trainer Kaye Tinsley. 

Second across the line was Gee I Jane (Jahafil - Miss Distinction by Bletchencore) who tried hard after starting from an outside draw with Sedecrem (Faltaat - Real Trier by Turf Ruler) up close for third. 

December 29th, 2004

Unbeaten Derby winner Xcellent's storming victory in the Group 1 New Zealand Derby is the icing on the cake for Rich Hill Stud's Pentire, siring thirteen individual winners around the tracks of Australasia, Singapore and Japan.

Amongst the winners were three-year-old fillies Penny Florence (ex Neo-Classic by Godswalk) and Gemstone (ex Gemscay by Maizcay) who are both targeting black type races later in the season.

Xcellent's brilliant Derby win has placed his sire in the unique position of having a realistic chance of winning the Derby, Railway and Auckland Cup treble. Waitoki Dream's strong performance in the Queen Elizabeth Handicap shows he's right on target for a bold run in the Auckland Cup. Meanwhile the Gerald Ryan trained sprinter, Recurring has settled in well at her Takanini base and on her Melbourne Spring form she should be very competitive in the Group I Railway Handicap on New Years Day.

Other winners by Pentire so far this month are :- Foxtown (ex Foxianna by Foxbay Cranbourne), Shrogginet (ex Alacrity by Grosvenor), Kaori Noble (ex Kaori Roman by Bravest Roman), Pentathon (ex Star Royal by Grosvenor), Panache (ex Against the Odds by Harbor Prince), St Michel (ex Mighty Mary by Racing Is Fun), Imperial Lad (ex Imperial Ivory by Imperial Prince), Pow to the Moon (ex Miss Tessla by Crested Wave), Bullecourt (ex Fascinating by No Sale George), Pentazia (ex Rule Brittania by Crested Wave) and Davidoff (ex Ellena Dawn by Drums of Time). 

With this sort of success the six yearlings that Rich Hill Stud have on offer by Pentire at the 2005 New Zealand Karaka Sales suggest that will be very keenly sought after.

December 27th, 2004

A potential star was produced at Ellerslie on Boxing Day when Xcellent dashed away with the Group I Mercedes Derby at only his third start.

Xcellent settled well back in the early part of the race and coming from near last to win by 1-1/4 lengths from Mandela (Ebony Grosve - Wairongoa Belle) with King Johnyy (Seasoned Star - Lal's Gift) a half-head away in third. 

The Derby result will be particularly welcomed at Little Avondale Stud, Masterton, who will offer, on behalf of the G.F. Gimblett Trust, a Pins half-brother to the Classic winner at next months New Zealand Bloodstock’s Premier Yearling Sale at Karaka. 

Now undefeated in his three career starts, Xcellent is out of the stakes-placed Excelo a daughter of Century’s 1990 Caulfield Guineas (G1) winning son Centro, out of the Sir Tristram mare Dominadora, a non winning sister to Group 3 winner Tristram’s Gold and three-quarter sister to Group 1 winners Gurner's Lane (Melbourne Cup), Sovereign Red ( V R C Derby) and Trichelle (Marlboro Cup). 

Trichelle is the dam of N.Z. Two Thousand Guineas winner Foxwood (Centaine). 

Excelo’s unraced half sister Arodani (Balmerino) is the dam of Newcastle Cup (G2) and SAJC St Leger (G3) winner Seto Bridge (Bellotto) as well as the Darwin Cup (LR) winner Tucker Box (Lunchtime). 

December 14th, 2004

New Zealand has a great tradition of standing sires of high class stayers. Le Filou, Alcimedes, Agricola, Oncidium, Zamazaan, Sir Tristram, Zabeel are just a few that come to mind immediately. Rich Hill Stud’s Pentire is a stallion, who after a slow start, something that comes with the territory for a sire of stock with an element of stamina, now seems to be heading for a worthy place on this list.

In recent weeks Waitoki Dream, Panache, Penny Florence, Pentathon and Shrogginet have all flown the flag with pride, several of them lightly raced types with bight futures. But there is another horse among his recent winners that promises to be perhaps his best ever representative to date, the unbeaten Xcellent. The Mike Moroney trained gelding has been most impressive, firstly at Te Rapa on the 6th of November over 1600m then on the 27th November over 2000m at Ellerslie. He produced a powerful sprint to finish of both races, on the second occasion after making a long run from the rear of the field. He looks set to figure prominently in the classic racing in Auckland at holiday time. Derby anyone?

November 28th, 2004

Caulfield trainer Peter Moody has another promising galloper on his hands in the shape of three-year-old Penworthan who landed his first city success from three starts at Moonee Valley on Saturday in the Infocus Handicap (2040m).

Penworthan (ex Clare Valley by Prince Echo), ran third on debut at Echuca only 2.6 lengths behind Lightofprosperity who subsequently finished only 4.5 lengths away from Binding in the Sandown Guineas.  Penworthan was then sent to Hamilton where he broke his maiden by 1.8 lengths in good fashion.

Ridden by Luke Nolen, who jumped Penworthan away well from barrier six to take up the running as the field went past the post the first time, eventually settling third behind Dollies Gem (Commands Dollies by Dr Grace).  Dollies Gem slowed the pace at the 1500m with Penworthan travelling well behind her in third with nowhere to go.  

As Dollies Gem turned into the home straight with immediate challenges from Thundery out wide and Smart Choices, Nolen waited for a run on Penworthan.  Nolen got the run soon after they straightened with Smart Choices dropping off. In a couple of strides Penworthan had easily accounted for Thundery (Thunder Gulch - Mirima by Last Tycoon) to score by a head. 

Brief Eruption (Brief Truce - Awe Inspiring by Jetball) ran on for third 1-1/2 lengths back.

Penworthan is worthy of inclusion to the black book as he appears to be a promising stayer and like all of Pentire's progeny he will continue to improve.

August 29th, 2004

New Zealand-owned Penitentiary could soon be on his way back home to confront Queensland champ Starcraft in the Group One Kelt Capital Stakes (2040m) in October after he pleased his trainer Shaun Dwyer in his Eagle Farm comeback on Saturday.

Having his first start for Dwyer, Penitentiary lined up in the Insecure Hcp (1400m), his first appearance since his AJC Australian Derby (2400m) failure at Randwick on April 10.

Penitentiary is owned by Kiwi businessman John Thomson and wife Margaret who also own Melbourne Cup hope Pacific Dancer (Groom Dancer - Pacific Gem by Kaapstad) runner up in the G2 Memsie Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on Saturday.

Penitentiary (ex Strangeways by Veloso) took on the more seasoned older horses and chased hard to grab Treasure The Kwila (Mister Kwila - Hide the Treasure by Spritely Knight) to win by a neck with Classic Karla (Kala Town - Sports Classic by Sports Ruler) the same margin away in third.

Penitentiary will now have one more run in Brisbane and then go back to New Zealand for the Kelt Stakes at Hastings in six weeks time.

On the same day in New Zealand, Pentire's son Waitoki Dream, also started his Spring campaign off well with a fresh-up win in the premier quality 1600 metre event at Hastings.

The four-year-old capitalised on a rails run to burst through late and down the favourite Sing In The Sun (Desert Sun). In her first start since going amiss in Melbourne last spring, Honor Babe (Honor Grades) ran most encouragingly by dashing home late for third. 

Te Aroha trainer Kevin Cullen now intends stepping Waitoki Dream up to a middle-distance and mapping out a programme which he hopes will culminate in a start in the Auckland Cup on January 1. 

August 2nd, 2004

At Rosehill on Saturday, Checkered Past and Sunset Express and went to the line locked together, with the judge unable to separate them they shared the spoils in the P J's First Floor Bars And Restaurants Handicap (1400m). 

After taking some time for the judge to declare the result, Rosehill trainer Chris Waller said  
"I thought we'd run second, so I'm very happy," said Waller of Checkered Past. 
"Maybe next start she'll only get half the weight the handicapper was going to put on. 
"I think she's best kept fresh so we'll look for a similar race in three to four weeks time. 

Sunset Express (Success Express - Finito Fling by Luskin Star) took her record to five wins from 19 starts recording more than $51,000 in earnings.  She is trained by Kris Lees at Newcastle.  

Checkered Past (ex Motel Model, by Bates Motel) has raced 32 times for six wins and eight places, with more than $97,000 in earnings.

June 6th, 2004

Consistent stayer Pentastic confirmed his high rating for the Brisbane Cup by winning the Group 2 P J O'Shea Stakes (2400m) at Eagle Farm on Saturday. 

Pentastic (ex Miss Minden by Bellotto) was sent out a short priced favourite on a very firm track, was  backing up after a tough effort seven days after he finished second behind Defier in the group one Doomben Cup, was pushed by Maze (Housebuster - Strangeways by Veloso) to win by a short neck with Another Warrior (Brave Warrior - Kate Be Good by Semipalatinks) three-quarters of a length away third. 

Pentastic will drop from the 58kg he carried on Saturday to 56kg in the Group 1 Brisbane Cup (3200m) on Monday. 

His popular owner Ray Orloff will be praying for rain for his honest horse. Pentastic is yet to win a Group 1 race although he has been placed several times at the elite level in recent seasons. 

May 18th, 2004

Adelaide Cup day at Morphettville proved to be hugely successful for New Zealand bred horses and in particular, Rich Hill Stud. The Walton (near Matamata) based nursery stood Bahhare and stands Pentire who sired the winners of the Group 1 South Australian Oaks and the Group 1 SAJC Adelaide Cup respectively. 

The running of the Group 1 South Australian Oaks saw New Zealand-bred fillies Dowry (Bahhare x Meant For Me) and Tingirana (Generous x Shy Lizzy) provide the quinella in the 2500m event. The New Zealand bred, owned and trained Dowry went to Adelaide after winning the Group 3 Manawatu Classic but had finished down the track in her first two starts in Australia. 

Despite being back in the field the Murray Baker-trained filly took advantage of early speed up front and came with a sweeping run to hit the lead at the 200m mark. She and jockey, Rhys McLeod, remained unassailable as they held off challenges from Tingirana and Dane Belltar. 

Dowry was sold at the 2002 New Zealand Bloodstock Premier Yearling Sale by Rich Hill Stud to bloodstock agent, Stuart Hale, for $53,000. Dowry is by the young sire son of Woodman, Bahhare, himself winner of the Group 2 Doncaster Champagne Stakes as a 2YO in England, who shuttled to Rich Hill Stud for 3 seasons, 2000, 2001 and 2002. From his first two crops to race he has left a Group 2 winner in the USA, a stakes winning 2yo which also won NZ’s richest 2YO event, the Mercedes Classique, Successor (NZ), as well as several stakes placed horses, including highly talented filly in the Melbourne stable of Peter Moody, and arguably unlucky not to have finished closer than 6th in yesterday’s SA Oaks, Star of Gretchen (NZ). 

Dowry, bred by David Thomas and Lorraine Smith of Davilora Lodge, together with Scott Williams of Cambridge, is from Meant For Me (who raced and won in Australia as Destined For Me), a daughter of Noble Bijou and a full sister to Group 1 AJC Oaks winner and multiple Group 1 placed mare, Our Sophia (NZ). Dowry herself is a half sister to Group 2 BOP RC Japan-New Zealand International Trophy winner and Group 1 placed horse Fatal (NZ), as at to the stakes winner Richfield Destiny (NZ). This is also the family of outstanding galloper in Australia of two seasons ago, Carnegie Express, winner of the Group 1 STC Canterbury Guineas and Group Rosehill Guineas. 

Later in the day the SAJC Adelaide Cup provided another great result for the New Zealand breeding industry. After sitting back in the field for most of the 3200 metre event the outsider Pantani (NZ) (Pentire x Dewamar) galloped past race leader Danestorm (Danehill) to win by half-a-length. 

Danestorm, had led all the way, looking impressive throughout and managed to hold on for second place. Bel Air (Victory Dance x Hollywood Hotel) was the Kiwi favourite following his gutsy win in last weekend’s Group 3 Carlton Draught Stakes. The seven-year-old gelding was sold through the New Zealand Bloodstock 1998 Festival Sale by Grand Vue Lodge for $11,000 to current part-owner and trainer Pete