Savagram makes winning start
Savagram, a brother to Australian Derby winner Major Beel and Group 3 winner Solid Gold, made the perfect start to his career with victory at Canterbury on Wednesday.
The Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott-trained colt impressed winning jockey Tim Clark, who also partnered Major Beel to his Australian Derby triumph.
He's probably a bit sharper than Major Beel and a bit stronger too. He's definitely a more imposing horse than Major Beel.
Melbourne Cup ruled out for Al Riffa
Australian-owned international Group 1 winner Al Riffa will miss this year's Melbourne Cup after suffering a minor injury setback.
Last year's Cup seventh placegetter is expected to miss around a month of work, ruling out the possibility of travelling to Australia. Australian Bloodstock's Luke Murrell said connections won't take any risks with the valuable stallion prospect, with his racing future now potentially in doubt.
Murrell rated Al Riffa a 50-50 chance of racing on next season, with retirement to stud looming if he doesn't make a complete recovery.
Gelding could unlock Attica
Trainer Joe Pride is seeing a sharper version of Group 1 winner Attica since the horse was gelded, and is hoping he can follow a similar path to stable star Ceolwulf.
Attica resumes in Saturday's Spring Preview over 1400m at Rosehill, the same race Pride used to kick off Ceolwulf's first campaign as a gelding in 2024. Ceolwulf went on to complete the Epsom Handicap-King Charles III Stakes double later that spring.
UK betting shops targeted in high street crackdown
New UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has put betting shops in the firing line as part of plans to give councils greater control over businesses operating on local high streets.
Burnham grouped betting shops alongside vape stores and other businesses he believes can negatively impact communities, promising local councils tougher powers over what is allowed to open.
The comments are likely to attract plenty of attention from Britain's racing and wagering industries given the significant role betting shops play in funding the sport.
Bow Echo retired after setback
Exciting UK star Bow Echo has been retired after suffering a setback, bringing a brilliant but brief racing career to an end.
The son of Night Of Thunder raced just six times, progressing rapidly from an impressive debut victory at Newbury to establishing himself among Europe's leading milers, culminating in victory in the Sussex Stakes.
Queensland Horse of the Year finalists revealed
Four of Queensland's biggest racing names are in contention for Queensland Horse of the Year, with Spicy Martini, Rothfire, Transatlantic and Yellow Brick named as finalists.
Stradbroke Handicap winner Spicy Martini and veteran Rothfire, who produced a memorable $61 upset in the Doomben 10,000, bring Group 1 winter carnival form to the contest.
They are joined by Tony Gollan's Group 1 Toorak Handicap winner Transatlantic and Yellow Brick, whose season was highlighted by victory in The Archer.
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.
