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Midweek racing at Rosehill Gardens is set to be unmissable on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, with seven competitive races organized by the Australian Turf Club, offering high stakes and fierce contests for punters and fans alike. The action will run from 2:20 PM to 5:50 PM, featuring a mix of sprint and middle-distance contests on Sydney’s iconic track. Racing fans can look forward to quality fields competing for prize money ranging from $60,000 to $100,000.

The card will begin with the Drinkwise Plate at 2:20 PM over 1200m, offering $60,000 in prize money, followed by the Rosehill Bowling Club Plate at 2:55 PM, also 1200m with $60,000 on offer. The mid-afternoon highlight will be the Asahi Super Dry Handicap at 3:30 PM over 1500m, boasting the richest prize of the day at $100,000. Longer-distance fans will turn their attention to the Ranvet Handicap at 4:05 PM over 2400m, while sprinters will have their chance in the Anamoe First Yearlings Handicap at 4:40 PM over 1100m. The program will conclude with the TAB Handicap at 5:15 PM (1500m) and the Ole Kirk @ Vinery Stud Handicap at 5:50 PM (1400m), both offering $60,000 in stakes.

Among the horses set to feature, several standout runners are expected to make an impact. In the Drinkwise Plate, young sprinters are likely to battle for early-season form. The Asahi Super Dry Handicap will attract proven 1500m performers, while the Ranvet Handicap will test experienced stayers over the demanding 2400m distance. Jockeys such as James McDonald, Kerrin McEvoy, and Tommy Berry are slated to ride, bringing both experience and tactical skill to their respective mounts. Each race promises thrilling finishes, with timing carefully staggered to deliver an action-packed afternoon for attendees and viewers.

Wednesday at Rosehill Gardens is set to offer a well-rounded racing program blending speed, stamina, and emerging talent. From the early sprints to the endurance-testing Ranvet Handicap, fans will have opportunities to watch favorites and spot potential surprises. With prize money and prestige on the line, the meeting will reinforce Rosehill Gardens’ reputation as one of Sydney’s premier racing venues, promising a memorable day of high-quality Thoroughbred racing for fans across the nation.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.

Harry Redknapp has made one thing abundantly clear as the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup approaches — The Jukebox Man is not leaving his yard at any price. With the Cheltenham Festival showpiece looming on Friday 13th March, the former football manager is daring to dream of the biggest prize in jumps racing.

The 78-year-old could scarcely contain his emotion when The Jukebox Man stormed to victory in the King George VI Chase at Kempton Park on Boxing Day. Flanked by wife Sandra and family members, Redknapp watched his eight-year-old gelding deliver a performance that elevated him firmly into the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup picture.

Now, after visiting trainer Ben Pauling during a media morning organised by The Jockey Club, Redknapp admits the anticipation feels unlike anything he experienced across 52 years in professional football.

“It’s a dream to have a horse to run in the Gold Cup and go there with a chance,” he said. “I’ve had plenty of horses over the years, but this one has taken us places you only dream about. He’s my dream — he’s not for sale and wouldn’t be for sale at any price.”

Gold Cup Dreams Growing for The Jukebox Man

The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup represents the pinnacle of National Hunt racing, and Redknapp acknowledges the task ahead will be formidable. Yet belief courses through the camp.

“I’m not saying we’re going to win it,” he added. “It’s an open race and we’ve got a serious horse. I think we’ve got as good a chance as anything.”

Despite his long association with football — including spells managing clubs such as West Ham and Tottenham — Redknapp now finds racing dominates conversations wherever he goes.

“People ask me about The Jukebox Man more than football,” he laughed. “When I’m at Cheltenham, I don’t want to talk about football. Even the lads I used to manage — they all ask about the horse.”

There could even be a familiar face across the parade ring next month, with Sir Alex Ferguson also likely to be in attendance at the Festival. The pair have shared many competitive afternoons on the touchline and at the racecourse.

“Alex is great. He loves his racing,” Redknapp said warmly. “He’s a top man.”

Nerves Like a Cup Final

Redknapp admits Gold Cup day will stir emotions comparable to a major football final — perhaps even more intense.

“I’ll be very nervous. Probably more nervous watching a race than standing on the touchline,” he confessed. “You get nervous every jump. You’re just praying they come back safe and sound. Ben has done all the work. You’re relying on the jockey and the horse.”

His relationship with Pauling stretches back more than seven years and already includes Festival success when Shakem Up’arry scored in 2024. Yet the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup is another level entirely.

Pauling, who describes Redknapp as “a national treasure”, believes the horse deserves his place among the elite.

“To have a horse of this calibre going into the Gold Cup in the form he’s in is exceptionally exciting,” Pauling said. “Harry loves the sport. He’s competitive, passionate and has been involved for a long time. The attention comes for the right reasons.”

From a £6,000 syndicate purchase during his Bournemouth days to standing on the brink of the sport’s most coveted crown, Redknapp’s ownership journey has come full circle. As the countdown to the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup continues, The Jukebox Man carries not just hopes of victory, but the dreams of a lifelong racing enthusiast determined to savour every stride.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.

A full card of action will be staged at Southwell Racecourse on 24 February, with nine races scheduled between 3:55 PM and 8:00 PM. The programme will feature competitive fields across sprint, middle-distance and staying divisions, offering strong prize allocations and diverse race conditions throughout the evening.

The fixture will bring together established runners and emerging contenders across different classes. Each contest will test speed, stamina and tactical positioning as horses and connections aim to secure valuable victories on the all-weather surface.

The action will begin at 3:55 PM with THE HANDICAP STAKES (Class 5) over 1m 13y. The race will carry £7,100 in prize money and will feature 12 runners, including Panama Black, Studious, and Rajapour. The field will line up for a strongly contested handicap over the extended mile trip.

At 4:25 PM, the CLASSIFIED STAKES (Class 6) – Division I will be staged over 7f 14y, offering £6,000 prize money with 8 runners declared. Key entrants such as American Rose, Autumn Angel, and Marcello Si will compete. Division II will follow at 5:00 PM over the same distance, also carrying £6,000 prize money and featuring another 8 runners, including Aim For The Bull, Darla’s Secret, and Homer Stokes.

Sprint action will continue at 5:30 PM with the HANDICAP STAKES (Class 6) – Division I over 6f 16y. The contest will offer £6,000 in prize money and will include 10 runners, with Yorkshire Glory, Forever Noah, and Walking On Clouds among the leading contenders. The Division II will take place at 6:00 PM over the identical trip of 6f 16y, carrying the same £6,000 purse and again featuring 10 runners, including Kamekist, Gundogan, and Spirited Dancer.

At 6:30 PM, the HANDICAP STAKES (Class 6) over 1m 4f 14y will bring together 5 runners competing for £6,000 prize money. Contenders such as Wicksey, Corduroy, and Very Demure will headline the smaller but competitive field over the longer distance.

The programme will then shift to the 7:00 PM slot for the NOVICE STAKES (Class 4) over 4f 214y, offering a stronger purse of £10,000 and featuring 9 runners, including Tainted Love, Keep An Eye On It, and Saddle Up. The race will highlight promising young talent and developing prospects.

At 7:30 PM, the CLASSIFIED STAKES (Class 6) over 4f 214y will assemble 8 runners and will carry £6,000 prize money. Entries such as Desert Master, Fortunate Star, and Isla Bella will compete in a sharp sprint that will demand early speed and strong positioning.

The evening will conclude at 8:00 PM with the HANDICAP STAKES (Class 5) over 2m 102y, offering £7,100 in prize money and attracting 9 runners. The staying event will include Prince Quattro, Skycutter, and Final Entry, rounding off a varied programme that will test speed, stamina, and tactical awareness across different race types.

The evening fixture at Southwell Racecourse will deliver a strong and balanced programme under Southwell Race Cards 24 February, featuring competitive fields, confirmed race times and substantial prize money across nine races.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.

Action unfolds at the well-established venue in Leicester Racecourse as six National Hunt races take centre stage on Tuesday, with racing beginning at 2:20pm. The fixture at Leicester brings together competitive fields across varied distances, strong prize funds and quality entries for an engaging afternoon of jumping.

The opening contest at 2:20pm is The Robert Parkin 70th Birthday Celebration Mares’ Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 5), run over 2m 4f 94y for £7,000. Three runners have been declared: Bobbi’s Beauty with jockey Freddie Keighley, Fay Ce Que Voudras with jockey Tom Cannon and Sawpit Samantha with jockey Benjamin Macey. In a small field, efficiency at the fences and tactical awareness will play a key role.

At 2:50pm, the David Johnson ‘DJ’ ‘Johnno’ Memorial Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 5) is staged over 2m 7f for £7,000. Seven runners line up, including Italian Spirit with jockey Miss Megan Bevan, Just In A Bit with jockey Charlie Deutsch, John W Creasy with jockey Bryan Carver and Nine Nine Nine with jockey Shane Fenelon. The longer trip will demand stamina and sustained effort in the closing stages.

The 3:20pm, Ladies’ Day 4th July Novices’ Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 5) also carries £7,000 and is run over 2m 4f 94y. Five runners are declared, headed by Walkinthecotswolds with jockey James Best, Jackeline with jockey Daniel Sansom, Ahanaglogh with jockey Tom Broughton and Nedzor with jockey Freddie Keighley. As a novices’ event, improving profiles are expected to shape the contest.

At 3:50pm, the April 25th with Denise Van Outen Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 4) (GBB Race) takes place over 2m 28y for £10,000. Four runners are set to compete, including Denemethy with jockey Jonathan Burke, Xcitations with jockey Paul O’Brien, Cobbler’s Boy with jockey Tristan Durrell and Rip Wheeler with jockey Robert Dunne. The shorter distance should produce a sharp tempo from the start.

The Quorn Novices’ Hunters’ Steeple Chase (Class 5) goes to post at 4:20pm over 2m 4f 94y for £6,000. Six amateur riders are declared, including Paul Marvel with jockey Mr Henry Crow, St Cuthbert’s Cave with jockey Miss Amber Jackson-Fennell, Corporal Jackjones with jockey Mr Darren Andrews and Just Lucky Sivola with jockey Mr James King. The race offers valuable competitive exposure for emerging combinations.

The programme concludes at 4:50pm with the Cottesmore Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase (Class 3), run over 2m 7f for £14,000. Among the six declared runners are Bowtogreatness with jockey Mr Dale Peters, Jet Plane with jockey Mr Sean O’Connor, Pyleigh Court with jockey Miss Ella Herbison and D’Jango with jockey Mr Lucas Murphy. The extended trip and higher class level ensure a demanding finish to the card.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.

A compelling six-race National Hunt programme takes centre stage at Catterick Bridge on Tuesday, 24 February, with racing scheduled from 2:00pm through to 4:30pm. The North Yorkshire circuit presents a balanced mix of maiden hurdles, competitive handicaps and stamina-testing chases, offering opportunities for progressive types and seasoned performers alike. The Class 3 feature at 3:30pm stands out as the highest prize race on the card, carrying £12,000 in total prize money.

The afternoon begins at 2:00pm with The Racing TV Club Day Maiden Hurdle Race, a Class 4 contest over 1m 7f 156y worth £10,000. Nine runners are declared for the opener, where sharp jumping and tactical speed will be key around Catterick’s tight track. Maiden hurdles at this stage of the season often produce emerging talent, and this competitive field should provide an informative start to proceedings.

At 2:30pm, The Download The Raceday Ready App Female Jockeys’ Novices’ Handicap Hurdle Race takes focus. This Class 5 event over 2m 3f 66y offers £7,000 in prize money and has attracted eight runners. The extended trip will test stamina, particularly in the closing stages, while the competitive handicap conditions promise a closely fought contest.

The 3:00pm Easby Abbey Handicap Steeple Chase sees eleven runners line up for the Class 5 contest over 1m 7f 145y, with £8,000 on offer. A sharp two-mile chase at Catterick places a premium on fluent jumping, and with a sizeable field declared, early positioning and rhythm over the fences will be crucial.

The highlight of the afternoon is The Every Race Live On Racing TV Handicap Hurdle Race, a Class 3 event over 2m 3f 66y, offering the meeting’s top prize of £12,000. Eight runners are set to contest this competitive handicap.

Among the notable contenders is Geromino, a 10-year-old gelding carrying top weight of 12st with a BHA rating of 123, representing the yard of Donald McCain. Close in the ratings is Into The Park, rated 122 and trained by Philip Hobbs & Johnson White, who shoulders 11st 13lbs. Medieval Gold, rated 115 for Patrick Neville, and Bathgate, also rated 115 for Philip Kirby, add further depth to the contest.

Additional interest surrounds Inedit d’Amour, rated 112 from the McCain yard, and Assorda, rated 110, trained by John Wainwright. With ratings tightly grouped beneath the top weight, the race shapes as a tactical battle where pace judgement and late stamina could prove decisive in determining the feature winner.

The penultimate race at 4:00pm, The Visit racingtv.com Handicap Steeple Chase, is a Class 4 staying contest over 3m 1f 54y worth £9,000. Six runners will tackle the extended trip, where endurance and measured riding are expected to play defining roles.

The meeting concludes at 4:30pm with The Racing Again 4th March Handicap Hurdle Race, a Class 5 event over 3m 1f 71y carrying £8,000 in prize money. Nine runners are set for this stamina-laden finale, ensuring a demanding test to close the card.

Tuesday’s fixture at Catterick Bridge presents a well-structured afternoon of jumps racing, blending competitive handicaps with promising maiden talent. With the £12,000 Class 3 hurdle serving as the focal point and several closely matched contenders lining up, the meeting promises intrigue, depth and competitive racing from start to finish in North Yorkshire.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.

A competitive seven-race National Hunt programme was conducted at Plumpton Racecourse on Monday, 23 February, producing decisive performances across hurdles and fences. The Sussex venue staged a well-balanced card featuring maiden and handicap company, with clear daylight between first and second in several contests.

The Alfriston Hotel – Have You Visited? Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) opened the afternoon with a commanding performance from MONDO MAN. Ridden by Caoilin Quinn and trained by Gary & Josh Moore for owners John and Yvonne Stone, the winner defeated LADY IRIS by 33 lengths, with the runner-up in turn finishing comfortably ahead of the remainder. MY LOVELY HORSE took third.

KOOL KID struck in the LGT Wealth Management Handicap Hurdle (Class 5). Brendan Powell partnered the Joe Tizzard-trained runner to success for owners Swallowfield Racing, finishing 1½ lengths ahead of FRANK STAMPER, who in turn held a comfortable advantage over KALKAROO in third.

In the Johnnie Boden Backs Jamie’s Farm Amateur Jockeys’ Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 4), ENJOY D’ALLEN delivered a dominant display. Miss Lily Jones guided the Neil King-trained runner to victory for owner Mr A. P. Jones, scoring by 7½ lengths over LUMI PLUGIN, with the runner-up clear of MORFEE.

SANITISER produced a measured success in the Howden Rural Insurance Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 4). Freddie Mitchell rode the Gary & Josh Moore-trained gelding for owner Sunville Rail Limited, crossing the line 2 lengths ahead of KNOWN WARRIOR, who in turn maintained a margin over KITSILANO.

The Jolly Sportsman Supports Jamie’s Farm Novices’ Limited Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) went to JUNIOR DES MOTTES. Jack Quinlan steered the Nick Scholfield-trained runner to a 5-length success for owner Mr Kevin Flook, with GLENGOLLY second and clear of AMI BONDHU in third.

RAP SOUL produced one of the stronger performances of the afternoon in the Sky Sports Racing Supports Jamie’s Farm Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 5). Harry Bannister rode the Richard Bandey-trained winner for owners The Soul Searchers, defeating KOENIGSSTERN by 9½ lengths, with LE GALLI BIER further behind.

The concluding oldgoldracing.com Supports Jamie’s Farm Mares’ Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) saw ELIZA DOLITTLE complete the card in decisive fashion. Tabitha Worsley guided the Nick Gifford-trained mare to a 9½-length victory for owner Mr Michael O’Shea over MISS KASSIOPI, who in turn held a clear margin over MILD MAGIC.

The Plumpton Race Results 23 February meeting delivered authoritative margins, a notable double for Gary & Josh Moore, and consistent competitive standards throughout. The fixture once again highlighted the competitive depth within the National Hunt programme at the Sussex venue.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.

There is a quiet confidence about Numbers as the Hong Kong Classic Cup approaches, the imposing four-year-old carrying both expectation and promise into Sunday’s HK$13 million feature at Sha Tin. In a season that has already revealed him as one of the city’s most progressive gallopers, the Hong Kong Classic Cup now presents a defining opportunity.

For jockey Derek Leung, the belief is growing by the day. After partnering the Frankie Lor-trained talent in a searching gallop earlier this week, Leung sensed a colt still on the rise.

“I galloped him on Monday and he did it well. He’s good, and I think he’s slightly improving,” Leung said. “He’s a stayer and he needs a few runs, but I think it’s a good time to go to the Classic Cup.”

Hong Kong Classic Cup Test Awaits Improving Numbers

The Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m) forms the second leg of the prestigious Four-Year-Old Classic Series and has long been a proving ground for emerging stars. Numbers arrives with an enviable profile: two wins from only three starts locally, highlighted by a decisive two-length triumph in the Group 3 Centenary Vase Handicap over the same distance earlier this month at Sha Tin Racecourse. That performance confirmed the depth of his staying ability. Carrying 117lb, Numbers defeated Speed Dragon, Encountered, Ensued, Chancheng Glory, Beauty Joy and Straight Arron in a display that blended stamina with authority.

Pre-import, he had already advertised his quality with a placing in the 2025 Group 1 Queensland Derby (2400m) in Australia, hinting that extended trips would hold no fears. His physical presence — weighing in at 1,212lb at his last start — is matched by a long, raking stride that marks him out as a natural over middle distances. “He’s very long and tall,” Leung explained. “When he gets in the gates everything feels small to him. Sometimes he gets a bit agitated, but we always practise in the gates for him to calm down. Hopefully this weekend he can jump at the perfect time.”

Trainer Frankie Lor, who has enjoyed a productive month with six winners, shares that optimism. “Everything is good. He’s much better now and he’s more relaxed. Further distances are no problem for him. The light weight helped him in the Group 3, but it was a good win.”

The Four-Year-Old Classic Series will culminate in the HK$26 million 149th BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) later in March, but for now, all focus rests on Sunday’s Hong Kong Classic Cup — a race that could confirm Numbers as a genuine Derby contender. Leung knows what it takes to win this contest, having combined with Lor to claim the prize in 2019 aboard Mission Tycoon. This time, however, he partners a colt expected to be prominent from the outset rather than an outsider springing a surprise.

Elsewhere this week, attention shifts to Happy Valley Racecourse on Wednesday night, where Straight To Glory seeks a hat-trick in the Class 3 Wan Chai Gap Handicap (1200m). Leung, again in the saddle, believes the progressive runner continues to mature. “He’s had perfect runs in his last two starts. He’s up to Class 3 now, but he gets a light weight and a good draw. He loves a battle, and it seems like he calms down more at Happy Valley.”

The competitive card also features the Class 2 Magazine Gap Handicap (1800m), where Huge Wave lines up against Californiatotality, Sword Point, Awesome Fluke, Soleil Fighter, Sky Heart and Jumbo Legend in what promises to be a tightly contested affair. But Sunday belongs to Numbers. The Hong Kong Classic Cup looms as the next step in his unfolding story — and perhaps the moment when potential becomes proof.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to Racebuzz.

A competitive eight-race all-weather fixture takes place at Newcastle Racecourse on Tuesday, 24 February, with racing on the Tapeta surface from 2:12pm through to 5:42pm. The programme combines well-matched handicaps, an informative maiden, and a strong novice contest, with two races sharing the highest purse of £10,000.

The 2:12pm opener, The Midnite Building The Future Handicap Stakes, is a Class 4 event over 1m 2f 42y worth £9,500. With six runners declared, the extended ten-furlong trip could develop into a tactical contest where race positioning proves crucial.

At 2:42pm, the Join The Midnite Movement Handicap Stakes provides a sharp contrast ,a five-furlong Class 6 sprint worth £9,000. Ten runners are set to go to post, and early speed will be key down Newcastle’s straight.

One of the joint-highest prize races on the card, this competitive maiden has attracted eleven runners and features a fascinating blend of three-year-olds and older horses.

Among the three-year-old fillies is Space Moon (IRE) (P. J. McDonald), trained by Roger Fell, alongside The Cyprus Pearl (GB) (Barry McHugh) from the Brian Ellison yard. Whisky Dreams (GB), partnered by David Egan for Ivan Furtado, also adds depth to the younger contingent.

Comprador (GB), a colt trained by Ed Walker and ridden by Billy Loughnane, brings racecourse experience, while Tim Easterby’s Kode Grey (IRE) and Julie Camacho’s Celtic Arrow (FR) further strengthen the three-year-old representation. Lock’d Up Lane (GB), trained by Roger Fell and rated 60, adds a measurable form line to the field.

The older runners ensure this is no straightforward maiden. Teddy Shaw (GB) (James Sullivan) represents Ruth Carr, while Minnie Idol (GB) from the John Butler stable and Seven Fires (IRE), trained by Jack Channon, both step forward with prior experience. Completing the line-up is Bannerbrooke (IRE) from the John & Sean Quinn yard. With varied profiles and experience levels, this six-furlong contest promises to be one of the most revealing races of the afternoon.

The 3:42pm Midnite Upping The Game Handicap Stakes (Class 5, 6f, £7,100) features the largest field of the day with twelve declared runners, setting up a competitive sprint scenario.

The 4:12pm and 4:42pm handicaps over 7f 14y, both Class 6 events worth £6,000, add further depth to the mid-card, with double-figure fields likely to produce closely fought finishes.

The second joint-feature on the card is the 5:12pm novice stakes, another £10,000 contest, which has attracted a strong field of ten runners.

Among them is Alfred (GB) (David Nolan), a five-year-old trained by David O’Meara, while August Spring (GB) represents the Michael & David Easterby yard. The highest-rated runner in the line-up is Maestro Bernstein (IRE) (Cam Hardie), who brings a BHA rating of 80 into the contest for Antony Brittain, marking him as a key contender on official figures.

Grant Tuer’s Multanightothree (IRE) adds further experience, while the three-year-old brigade is headed by Domenico Contarini (IRE) (David Egan) for Kevin Philippart de Foy and Exmoor (GB) (P. J. McDonald), trained by Andrew Balding.

Haltonwood (IRE) from the Ivan Furtado yard, Leysthorpe Star (IRE) trained by Roger Fell, and Midsummer Storm (IRE) from the K. R. Burke stable all add further intrigue, alongside My Dad Frank (GB) trained by Alan Brown. With a mix of exposed older runners and progressive three-year-olds, this novice contest looks set to provide a compelling late highlight.

The finale at 5:42pm, the Midnite Golden Goals Handicap Stakes (Class 6, 1m 5y, £6,000), concludes the afternoon with ten runners declared, ensuring a competitive closing chapter to the meeting.

Overall, Tuesday’s Tapeta card at Newcastle blends competitive handicaps with two £10,000 features that stand out for depth and quality. The 3:12pm maiden and 5:12pm novice stakes, in particular, offer strong fields and the promise of emerging talent on display.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.

David Hayes eyes Akashvani as a key contender in the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m) this Sunday at Sha Tin, hoping the rising four-year-old can make a decisive impression in the second leg of the prestigious Four-Year-Old Classic Series. With the 149th HK$26 million BMW Hong Kong Derby looming on 22 March, Hayes is also keeping an eye on a couple of other promising gallopers in his stable.

Hayes has three entries for the Hong Kong Classic Cup, but 82-rated Akashvani is the standout likely to make the field, with stablemates Fortune Boy and Shamus Storm missing out. The colt, by Alpine Eagle, brings a blend of consistency and untapped potential, having already recorded three wins from 13 starts, including victories at both Sha Tin and Happy Valley.

Journey to the Classic Cup

Unsold at the 2023 Magic Millions Tasmanian Yearling Sale after failing to meet his AU$20,000 reserve, Akashvani eventually came under the guidance of Ben, Will, and JD Hayes in Victoria, Australia, before joining his father David Hayes’ Hong Kong operation following a sale to Prem Fathechand Melwani.

Since his Hong Kong debut victory over 1200m at Sha Tin last March, Akashvani has shown steady improvement. After a brief dry spell, he returned to the winners’ circle over six furlongs at Happy Valley in October, then captured a 1400m race last month. He contested the first leg of the Four-Year-Old Classic Series, the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m) on 1 February, finishing a solid eighth in a strong field behind Little Paradise.

“He’s got to be tested at the distance but being by Alpine Eagle suggests he will get the trip,” Hayes said. “He’s in good shape and going well. Whether he can win, I’m not sure — it’s going to be hard to beat Little Paradise.”

Derby Dreams Beyond the Classic Cup

While Akashvani comfortably makes the Classic Cup field, Hayes is also managing the Derby prospects of Fortune Boy, Shamus Storm, and China Win. Fortune Boy, who finished fourth over 2000m at Sha Tin last Thursday, is viewed as more of a Derby horse than a Classic Cup runner. China Win, sidelined briefly due to an irregular heart rhythm, has twice won over 1800m and remains on track for the prestigious HK$26 million BMW Hong Kong Derby.

“China Win got scratched due to a heart fibrillation, but he was fine two hours later,” Hayes explained. “It’s all about qualifying now. He’s very capable. Shamus Storm also has Derby hopes if he can win his next start.” Hayes also confirmed that Public Attention, who ran tenth in the Hong Kong Classic Mile, has been gelded and will now focus on middle-distance sprinting. Akashvani’s run in the Hong Kong Classic Cup will be closely watched as he attempts to translate his form into a strong performance at 1800m, keeping the door open for a tilt at Hong Kong’s most prestigious race later in March.

For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.

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Get the complete Australia racecards 25 February with all seven races at Rosehill Gardens. Find timings, race distances, prize money,
Harry Redknapp says The Jukebox Man is not for sale ahead of the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup at the Cheltenham
Complete overview of Southwell Race Cards 24 February featuring all nine races with full breakdown and key details.
Leicester Race Cards 24 February provide complete details of six National Hunt races starting at 2:20pm.
The Catterick Bridge racecards 24 February feature a competitive six-race National Hunt programme, headlined by a £12,000 Class 3 handicap
Detailed coverage of Plumpton Race Results 23 February with all seven winners, race margins and connections from the National Hunt
Numbers heads into the Hong Kong Classic Cup at Sha Tin as one of the leading contenders after his Group
Newcastle racecards 24 February feature an eight-race Tapeta fixture from 2:12pm to 5:42pm, highlighted by two £10,000 contests including a
Akashvani leads David Hayes’ team in the Hong Kong Classic Cup, aiming for a standout performance over 1800m at Sha
Sagacious Life aims for victory in the Hong Kong Classic Cup at Sha Tin, with stamina tipped to decide the
Wolverhampton racecards 23 February feature a competitive nine-race AWT programme on Tapeta, headlined by a £10,000 Maiden Fillies’ Stakes and
Ayr racecards 23 February feature a competitive six-race National Hunt programme at Ayr Racecourse, highlighted by an £11,000 Class 4
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