Monthly Archives: August 2008

Mooney Valley Racecourse was buzzing with excitement as the horses competing in the Arrow Training Services Handicap began filling the starting gates for the 1000 meter event. It was a highly anticipated race, with all eyes focused on Time Thief. He was making his debut and everyone was speculating in regard to his performance. Sidelined with illness and injury, horse racing fans were forced to wait for the arrival of Time Thief. He did not disappoint, and ran exactly as would be expected of a rising champion.

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Aiden O’Brian had a lot to be proud of on Saturday, 23 August 2008, as Duke of Marmalade thundered towards the wire to secure his fifth consecutive Group 1 victory at the Juddmonte International. With Johnny Murtagh on board, the duo waited patiently for the right moment to make their move and take victory at the Newmarket Racecourse. Although a little controversy arose, it could not dampen the spirits of the Duke of Marmalade camp.

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The Grade 1 $1 Million Pacific Classic was run on Sunday, 24 August 2008, at the Del Mar Racetrack, and was a race that saw some the best of the best in horse racing go up against each other. The ten horse field included names such as Well Armed, Go Between, Awesome Gem, Mostacolli Mort, Zappa, Surf Cat, Barcola, Mast Track, Delosvientos and Student Council. This prestigious racing event for three year olds and over is run over a one and a quarter miles. When Go Between crossed the finished line in first position, he automatically secured his place at the Breeders’ Cup at Santa Anita.

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Spectators were on their feet at Saratoga Racecourse on Saturday, 23 August 2008, as the final stretch of the Grade 1 $1 million Travers Stakes became the scene of determination, disbelief, elation and thrilling horse racing action with a battle between Colonel John and Mambo in Seattle unfolding before the crowd. Deafening screams of excitement and encouragement drowned out the sound of thundering hooves, jockeys pushed their horses to the limit, and both Colonel John and Mambo in Seattle were giving it their all down to the wire.

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Trainers in the New Zealand harness racing industry will be finding it very hard to resist the racing series that has been created by the top brass of harness racing. Juvenile racing always started in September, but because of events such as the Australasian Breeders Crown, Harness Jewels and Sire’s Stakes taking place after May, pre-Christmas harness racing for juveniles started to disappear. However, with the new lure of the Young Gun Series, trainers and owners will have incentive to restart the old tradition.

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