Melbourne Cup shares up for grabs
Racing fans have a late opportunity to buy into potential Melbourne Cup runners Vauban and Wine Dark Sea, with shares in both horses being offered through the Inglis Digital Spring Carnival Sale.
Bidding is already underway and closes on Wednesday, October 28, with the final countdown beginning at 4pm AEDT.
The sale gives prospective owners a chance to secure an interest in a Cup contender just days before the November 3 feature.
Pride Of Jenni racing the clock for Champions Mile
Pride Of Jenni remains in doubt for the Group 1 Champions Mile at Flemington on November 7, where a potential clash with Autumn Glow awaits.
The Ciaron Maher-trained nine-year-old is still recovering from the cellulitis infection that forced her withdrawal from the King Charles III Stakes on October 17.
Connections are hopeful she can recover in time, but her participation remains uncertain.
Asturia owners reject major offer
Connections of New Zealand 1000 Guineas favourite Asturia have rejected a substantial offer for their three-year-old filly.
Te Akau Racing boss Sir David Ellis confirmed the ownership syndicate unanimously voted to retain the filly rather than sell.
While the exact figure hasn't been disclosed, reports suggest the offer could have been around $2 million, placing Asturia among New Zealand's most valuable racing fillies.
Regal Ambition heads to The Vanity
Regal Ambition will contest Saturday's Group 3 The Vanity (1400m) at Flemington, with Mick Dee booked to ride.
The Lindsay Park-trained filly finished third in the Group 1 Thousand Guineas at her most recent start.
She is also nominated for the Group 1 Empire Rose Stakes and Group 3 Carbine Club Stakes, giving connections several options across Derby Day.
$100 million Eagle Farm redevelopment begins
Work has commenced on the $100 million redevelopment of Eagle Farm Racecourse's grandstand facilities.
The project includes the demolition of the ageing John Power Stand, marking a significant stage in the Brisbane venue's redevelopment.
Moonee Valley targeting 2027 Cox Plate return
The Moonee Valley Racing Club remains focused on bringing the Cox Plate back to The Valley in 2027 following this year's temporary move to Flemington.
Chief executive Michael Browell says planning is progressing, including proposals for temporary grandstand facilities while redevelopment continues.
The club expects to present its progress to Racing Victoria before Christmas, with the aim of demonstrating it can host next year's Cox Plate.
Kingswood headed to Hong Kong Vase
Caulfield Cup winner Kingswood is set to travel to Hong Kong for the Hong Kong Vase on December 9.
The international assignment will give the stayer another opportunity at Group 1 level following his Caulfield Cup success.
Williams booked for Concord Connie
Craig Williams has secured the ride aboard Concord Connie in Saturday's Group 1 Empire Rose Stakes at Flemington.
The Charlotte Littlefield-trained mare will be making her first appearance at Group 1 level in the 1600m feature.
Hong Kong on the agenda for Sir Delius
Three-time Group 1 winner Sir Delius is being prepared for a possible trip to the Hong Kong International Races on December 13.
The Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott-trained entire has raced three times this spring, most recently finishing sixth in Saturday's Cox Plate.
Waterhouse confirmed on Tuesday that Hong Kong is the intended target, provided the horse continues to progress well.
VRC considering options to protect Derby status
The Victoria Racing Club says it will consider all options to protect the Victoria Derby's Group 1 status, including potential changes to the race's distance.
Chief racing officer Leigh Jordon told Betsy that "nothing is off the table" as the club reviews the future of the historic 2500m feature.
The Victoria Derby, first run in 1855, is currently on an Asian Pattern Committee warning list after failing to meet the required ratings benchmark for four consecutive years.
Reducing the distance to attract a stronger field is among the options being discussed, although no decision has been made.
Mott picks up Cormier Derby ride
Jamie Mott has secured the ride aboard Sydney visitor Cormier in Saturday's Group 1 Victoria Derby.
The Maurice colt finished third in last weekend's Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes and is currently on the third line of betting at $8.
Mott will be looking to claim his first Victoria Derby aboard the promising three-year-old.
Editorial at The Daily Punt, covering Australian racing and sport with an eye for where the value sits.
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