Natural Fling produces monster Quezette rating
Exciting filly Natural Fling announced herself as a serious spring prospect with a dominant four-length victory in Saturday's Quezette Stakes at Caulfield.
The returning three-year-old earned a 102 WFA Performance Rating from Dan O'Sullivan, the highest-rated Quezette win since at least 2016 and 1.8 lengths above the race's winning median of 97.5.
The performance rated higher than some outstanding previous winners, including I Am A Star (99.5), Sunlight (98) and Bella Nipotina (98).
Sara Ryan takes over at Macedon Lodge
Rising trainer Sara Ryan is set to establish a Victorian base after being appointed head trainer for Macedon Racing at the historic Macedon Lodge.
The 31-year-old will begin training from the Mount Macedon property on September 1, while continuing to operate her existing Wyong stable in New South Wales.
"The chance to train at Macedon Lodge was something I just couldn't pass up," Ryan said. "It gives me an incredible opportunity to grow the stable and continue developing horses at the highest level."
The incredible Palio di Siena
One of the world's most extraordinary horse races took place in Italy over the weekend, with the historic Palio di Siena again providing a spectacular sight.
Dating back to the 17th century, the race sees 10 horses representing different districts of Siena compete bareback around the Piazza del Campo, which is temporarily covered with packed clay.
The race consists of three frantic laps and lasts only around 90 seconds, while remarkably, a horse can still win even if it loses its jockey during the race.
Yellow Jersey emerges as serious spring wildcard
Former French galloper Yellow Jersey further enhanced his reputation as one of the spring's most intriguing prospects with an impressive 1000m Caulfield trial victory on Saturday.
The former Andre Fabre-trained galloper held off Group 1 stars Mr Brightside, Giga Kick and Tom Kitten, prompting connections to consider upgrading his Australian debut from Listed company to the Group 1 Memsie Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on August 29.
The lightly raced son of Dubawi has won three of his four starts and is being aimed towards the $6 million Cox Plate at Flemington.
Melham reunited with Half Yours
Champion jockey Jamie Melham will continue her association with reigning Caulfield and Melbourne Cup winner Half Yours this spring.
Melham partnered the stayer to his historic Cups double last year and will be back aboard when he resumes in the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes at Flemington.
Harry Coffey rode Half Yours in Friday's Flemington jumpout, but co-trainer Tony McEvoy confirmed Melham will gallop him at Sandown on Saturday before partnering him in his final trial and then the Makybe Diva.
Sheza Alibi nominated for Winx Stakes
Star mare Sheza Alibi has been nominated for Saturday's Group 1 Winx Stakes at Randwick, with trainers Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman to make a final decision after she gallops on Tuesday.
The Winx Stakes attracted 17 nominations, including 11 from Chris Waller, headed by star Autumn Glow.
Touchdown ruled out of spring
Promising galloper Touchdown is heading to the paddock and will miss the major spring races after being diagnosed with a mild respiratory infection.
The Lindsay Park team informed owners of the decision following veterinary advice, with connections opting not to risk aggravating the issue.
Wine Dark Sea strengthens Melbourne Cup claims
Australian-owned international Wine Dark Sea has taken an important step towards the Melbourne Cup with victory in the Group 3 Geoffrey Freer Stakes (2671m) at Newbury.
The Harry Charlton-trained galloper defeated Tabletalk and Dubai Honour, satisfying an important Melbourne Cup ballot clause in the process and further strengthening his credentials for a trip to Australia.
Golden Eagle hopes fading for Gstaad
The chances of Coolmore star Gstaad travelling to Australia for the Golden Eagle appear to be fading despite the retirement of his brilliant rival Bow Echo.
Gstaad, rated 125 internationally following his Sussex Stakes second, is recovering from cuts suffered at Glorious Goodwood and is now expected to head to the Prix du Moulin at Longchamp.
Trainer Aidan O'Brien expects Gstaad to race on beyond that, but Champions Day at Ascot or the Breeders' Cup now appear more likely than a trip to Sydney.
Champion stayer Trawlerman retired
Godolphin's champion stayer Trawlerman has been retired after sustaining a tendon lesion while preparing for the Lonsdale Cup.
The son of Golden Horn enjoyed a remarkable 2025 season, highlighted by a record-breaking victory in the Group 1 Gold Cup at Royal Ascot and another elite-level triumph in the British Champions Long Distance Cup.
Trawlerman finished the year recognised as the world's highest-rated stayer on 121 and was crowned Cartier Champion Stayer.
Editorial at The Daily Punt, covering Australian racing and sport with an eye for where the value sits.
Betting should be fun, not a way to make money. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit, and for free, confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.
