• dark-mode-icon light-mode

: Tamilnadu government takes U-turn on Madras Race Club issue

[news_ticker_internationaly]

Trending Now

Add Your Heading Text Here

Active Racecard

No. (Draw) Horse

Active Raceboard

Today on

The Boodles Anniversary 4-Y-O Hurdle provided a gripping opening to the 2026 Randox Grand National Festival at Aintree, where a pair of Irish-trained fillies dominated proceedings and served up a compelling finish in the Grade One contest.

Run over just shy of two miles and a furlong, the Boodles Anniversary 4-Y-O Hurdle drew a competitive field of ten, including two promising fillies who ultimately fought out the finish. It was Gordon Elliott’s progressive mare Mange Tout, ridden with measured confidence by Jack Kennedy, who asserted late to defeat the Willie Mullins-trained favourite Selma De Vary by three-quarters of a length.

The race began at a steady tempo, but the complexion shifted notably from the third-last flight as Kennedy angled Mange Tout into contention. Travelling strongly but still showing signs of keenness, she moved alongside Selma De Vary approaching the home turn. From there, it became a duel between the two, with Mange Tout just doing enough on the run-in to secure top honours.

Selma De Vary, sent off the 9-4 favourite under Paul Townend, lost little in defeat, staying on gamely but finding the winner marginally stronger on the day. Adrian Keatley’s Indian River finished third, running with credit despite conceding weight to the leading pair.

Elliott was quick to praise both horse and rider, noting the importance of Kennedy’s tactical approach. “I thought he gave her a great ride. Winning or losing the race was decided from the third-last to the turn in,” he said. “Jack had to ride to settle her. She was very keen at Leopardstown, and that took its toll there.”

The decision to bypass Cheltenham in favour of Aintree also proved decisive. “It was hard not taking her to Cheltenham, but now that it’s over, I’m glad we kept her for here. The flatter track suited her, and she’s got a bit of boot,” Elliott added, hinting at her future over fences.

Kennedy echoed those sentiments, highlighting the filly’s developing maturity. “She can overrace a bit, but I got some cover on her today. She still wasn’t fully relaxed, but she jumped great,” he said. “I was conscious not to get boxed in, and she probably hit the front a bit soon, but she was always doing enough.”

Townend, reflecting on Selma De Vary’s effort, was gracious in defeat. “She ran a cracker. We were probably just beaten by a fresher one on the day. There wasn’t much between them the last time either.”

Keatley also took positives from Indian River’s third-place finish. “He had plenty to find with the front two and was giving them weight. It was a good run, and he’s had a busy campaign for a relatively inexperienced horse.”

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

There was a welcome turn of fortune for the Skelton brothers at Aintree Racecourse as Nan’s Choice delivered a polished performance to land the Grade Two Goffs Nickel Coin Mares’ Bumper, bringing a satisfying close to the opening day’s programme. After earlier frustration when a runner was narrowly denied, the Warwickshire yard found compensation through a mare who looks to have a bright future ahead.

Sent off at 9-2, Nan’s Choice travelled kindly throughout before asserting in the closing stages to score by a length and a half. Though still learning her craft, she showed both resilience and promise when it mattered most, responding gamely once asked for her effort.

Trainer Dan Skelton admitted afterwards that expectations had been measured coming into the race. With the mare making her first start for the yard, she remained something of an unknown quantity.

“That’s her first run for us and we didn’t really know an awful lot about her, to be honest,” he said. “We haven’t done that much with her as she’s quite a light-framed filly, but we felt she would appreciate decent ground.”

Despite showing signs of greenness once hitting the front, Nan’s Choice held her advantage with authority. Skelton was quick to underline the impression she had made at home, even without being subjected to strenuous preparation.

“When she hit the front she ran around a bit, but she’s a lovely mare. I hadn’t asked her for anything extravagant at home, but she’s always looked like she had ability. I’d say she has a big future.”

In the saddle, Harry Skelton echoed that sentiment, crediting the mare’s straightforward temperament and toughness as key factors in her success.

Nan’s Choice Shows Class in Closing Stages

“She’s very uncomplicated,” he noted. “I haven’t ridden her much at home, but Sean O’Connor, who does, was very positive about her. He said she felt smart, and she’s proved that on the track.”

The rider admitted to a brief moment of concern approaching the final furlong, as Nan’s Choice appeared to hesitate after taking the lead, but she quickly regained focus and powered to the line.

“I thought for a moment she might get caught when she had a look around, but she was very game. Considering the atmosphere and the bigger crowd compared to what she’s experienced before, she handled it well and still won with something in hand.”

Having previously succeeded on testing ground, this performance on a sounder surface added another dimension to her profile. Her ability to adapt, coupled with a willing attitude, suggests connections have every reason to look ahead with confidence.

Nan’s Choice now emerges from the contest as a mare of considerable potential, one who may yet develop into a notable performer in this division as the season progresses.

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

The Randox Foxhunters’ Chase once again proved a stage for remarkable stories, as Barton Snow delivered a commanding performance to hand trainer Joe O’Shea a third victory in the race over the famous Grand National fences at Aintree Racecourse.

Sent off the 7-4 favourite, Barton Snow arrived with strong credentials after his success in the equivalent contest at Cheltenham last month, and he duly lived up to expectations. Travelling smoothly throughout, he asserted his superiority after the final fences to pull clear for a decisive seven-length victory, confirming his standing among the leading hunter chasers of the season.

O’Shea, who had previously tasted success in the race with Cousin Pascal in 2021 and Gracchus De Balme in 2025, was both jubilant and reflective after the latest triumph. Speaking with characteristic candour, he suggested the full extent of Barton Snow’s ability may still be unknown, describing the horse as exceptional both at home and on the track. His remarks, laced with humour, hinted at the ease with which the gelding handles his racing assignments, often doing only what is required.

Randox Foxhunters’ Chase: A Class Apart at Aintree

From the outset, the Randox Foxhunters’ Chase was run at a strong tempo on testing ground, conditions that often expose weaknesses. Barton Snow, however, appeared entirely at ease. Under a confident ride from Henry Crow, he travelled powerfully before quickening away from his rivals in the closing stages, his jumping largely assured despite the unique demands of the Aintree fences.

Behind the winner, Lets Go Champ stayed on well to claim second, while Take All completed the placings in third, both running with credit in a race that demanded stamina and precision.

For O’Shea, the victory carried additional emotional weight. He revealed that medical advice may force him to step away from training at the end of the season following serious health concerns, including a quadruple heart bypass. Yet even as he contemplates retirement, his passion for the sport remains evident, particularly when discussing promising talent at home, including another unbeaten horse he believes could follow in similar footsteps.

Winning rider Henry Crow was full of praise for both horse and trainer, describing the experience as “fantastic” and emphasising how straightforward the race felt aboard such a talented performer. He highlighted Barton Snow’s ability to travel effortlessly and respond when asked, noting that riding a horse of that calibre simplifies even the most demanding contests. Crow also paid tribute to O’Shea’s role in his career, crediting the trainer with giving him his first opportunities in the saddle.

Sophie Carter, who partnered Lets Go Champ into second, spoke positively about her mount’s effort, acknowledging that the pace and ground conditions tested her horse but expressing satisfaction with the performance, particularly on her first ride at Aintree.

Third-placed Take All also attracted admiration, with trainer Myles Osborne describing the result as a milestone achievement. Having prepared the horse specifically for the unique demands of the Aintree fences, Osborne felt vindicated by the performance, especially given the gelding’s previous near-misses at major festivals. Rider Samuel Scott echoed those sentiments, calling the experience unforgettable and crediting the horse as a cornerstone of his early career.

In the end, however, the Randox Foxhunters’ Chase belonged emphatically to Barton Snow—a horse of rare ability whose dominance on two of the sport’s most demanding stages in successive months marks him out as a standout performer in his discipline.

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

There was a quiet authority to the way Brighterdaysahead went about her business at Aintree Racecourse, the seven-year-old mare producing a performance of control and class to land the Grade One Aintree Hurdle over two and a half miles. Sent off the 13-8 favourite, she always looked the one to beat and duly proved it, pulling clear to defeat The New Lion by two and a quarter lengths.

It completed a notable double on the afternoon for trainer Gordon Elliott and jockey Jack Kennedy, whose earlier success with Mange Tout had already set the tone. This, though, carried a little more weight — a polished performance at the highest level.

Elliott, reflecting afterwards, felt the race had played to the mare’s strengths. “This is probably her trip and she was awesome,” he said. “I was nervous, but it was kind of easy to watch and Jack was brilliant on her. It’s great for everyone at Gigginstown who have been massive supporters of mine, through thick and thin.”

Ridden with patience, Brighterdaysahead settled comfortably through the early stages, Kennedy keen to keep her relaxed. There was a smoothness to her rhythm, her jumping neat and economical, and as the field began to stretch, she edged closer almost effortlessly.

The race began to take shape approaching the fourth-last flight. A slight hesitation from a rival presented an opening, and Kennedy seized it, allowing his mount to stride on. From that point, she never looked in danger. Her stride lengthened, her ears pricked, and the response was immediate when asked.

Kennedy was full of praise for the mare’s attitude. “Unreal. I think that could be as good as she’s been,” he said. “The extra half a mile suited her, and she was just doing everything so easy. I was happy the whole way. When I let her go, she was good. She’s a great mare.”

Behind her, The New Lion ran a race full of merit but could not quite match the winner’s finishing kick. Trainer Dan Skelton pointed to a late error as the decisive moment. “He travelled well and jumped great bar the last,” he said. “He just got under it and that was that — our chance gone. I’m disappointed we didn’t get a clean jump, but not with how he’s run.”

Third-placed Alexei also emerged with credit, staying on steadily without ever threatening the front two. Trainer Joe Tizzard was satisfied with what he saw. “Solid run. We got the trip — no complaints at all,” he said, suggesting plans for next season would be considered in due course.

For Brighterdaysahead, this felt like a performance that confirmed both her versatility and her growing maturity. Equally effective at shorter distances, she appeared entirely at home over this intermediate trip, travelling strongly and seeing it out with authority.

Elliott hinted that a switch to fences could still be on the horizon, a plan previously delayed by a setback earlier in the season. On this evidence, that next step holds considerable promise.

“She’s a good mare,” he said. “That’s why she wins over two miles, but I think two and a half is probably her trip. I’d imagine she’s going to go chasing.”

If that proves to be her path, she will head there with momentum — and with a performance at Aintree that marked her out as a mare of real substance.

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

Aintree Racecourse stages another electrifying day of jump racing on Friday, 10 April, featuring a seven-race card packed with quality, depth, and significant prize money. The day combines fiercely competitive handicaps with elite-level contests, headlined by the prestigious Melling Steeple Chase. With top-class runners spread across the card, racing fans can expect an afternoon full of drama, stamina tests, and high-speed finishes.

The action begins at 1:45 PM with the HandWilliam Hill Handicap Hurdle Race, a Class 1 contest that brings together a large and competitive field of 22 runners. Run over 2 miles 4 furlongs and 36 yards, the race demands both stamina and tactical awareness. With £75,000 on offer, it sets an exciting tone for the day, as contenders look to establish early prominence in a tightly packed field where positioning will be crucial.

At 2:20 PM, the focus shifts to the William Hill Mildmay Novices’ Steeple Chase, run over 3 miles 1 furlong and 40 yards. This Class 1 contest features eight runners competing for £120,000 and is widely regarded as a key race for emerging staying chasers. The extended trip places emphasis on endurance and precise jumping, especially in the closing stages where only the strongest will prevail. It is a race that often produces future stars of the chasing division.

The third race at 2:55 PM, the ThatPrizeGuy Top Novices’ Hurdle, presents a high-quality but compact field of six runners over two miles. With £100,000 in prize money, the race is expected to be tactical and fast-paced. In such a small field, every move counts, and a well-timed finish could prove decisive. This contest regularly showcases promising young hurdlers, making it an important race for spotting future talent.

The feature race of the day, the JCB Melling Steeple Chase at 3:30 PM, offers a prize fund of £250,000 and brings together a strong field of seven runners over 2 miles 4 furlongs and 19 yards. This race demands a perfect blend of speed, stamina, and jumping ability, and it consistently attracts some of the best chasers in training.

Among the standout contenders is Grey Dawning, a talented gelding trained by Harry Fry for The Eyre Family, carrying 11st 10lbs with a BHA rating of 156. He will be partnered by Harry Skelton. Another leading hope is the higher-rated Grey Dawning trained by Dan Skelton and owned by Mr Robert Kirkland, also carrying 11st 10lbs with a BHA rating of 165, adding further depth to the contest.

Heart Wood, trained by Henry de Bromhead for Robcour, brings strong recent form into the race and boasts a BHA rating of 168. Ridden by Darragh O’Keeffe, he is expected to be a major contender. JPR One, trained by Joe Tizzard and partnered by Brendan Powell, carries a rating of 160 and adds further competitiveness to the field.

L’Eau du Sud, representing Dan Skelton, enters with consistent performances and a rating of 163, while Saint Segal, trained by Mrs Jane Williams, comes into the race with solid form and a rating of 155. Completing the lineup is Solness, trained by Joseph Patrick O’Brien and ridden by J. J. Slevin, who holds a rating of 166 and has shown strong recent performances. With such a balanced and high-quality field, the Melling Chase promises to be a thrilling highlight of the day.

At 4:05 PM, the Randox Topham Handicap Steeple Chase takes center stage with a maximum field of 30 runners. Run over 2 miles 5 furlongs and 19 yards across Aintree’s iconic Grand National fences, this race is one of the most exciting spectacles of the meeting. The unique obstacles test agility, bravery, and jumping precision, while the large field adds an element of unpredictability, ensuring a dramatic and fast-paced contest.

The sixth race at 4:40 PM, the Oddschecker Sefton Novices’ Hurdle, is a demanding staying contest run over 3 miles and 193 yards. Featuring 13 runners and offering £100,000 in prize money, the race places a strong emphasis on stamina. Horses stepping up in distance or showing progressive improvement are likely to play a key role, particularly in the closing stages where endurance becomes the deciding factor.

The day concludes at 5:15 PM with the Debenhams Handicap Hurdle Race, a Class 2 contest featuring 22 runners over two miles. With £50,000 on offer, the race promises a competitive and fast-paced finish to the card. Speed and tactical awareness will be essential, as runners look to end the day on a winning note.

Overall, Friday’s racing at Aintree delivers a perfect blend of quality and excitement. From the competitive opening handicap to the elite-level Melling Chase and the spectacle of the Topham over famous fences, the card offers something for every racing enthusiast. With strong fields, significant prize money, and high stakes throughout, the stage is set for an unforgettable day of jump racing at one of the sport’s most iconic venues.

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

History and admiration combined at Aintree Racecourse as Rachael Blackmore Grand National Legend recognition was bestowed on one of jump racing’s most influential figures before the opening day of the 2026 festival. The trailblazing rider, whose name is forever etched into the sport’s folklore, was honoured for her landmark success in the Randox Grand National.

At 36, Rachael Blackmore remains a defining presence in the modern era of racing. Her historic victory aboard Minella Times in 2021 made her the first female jockey to win the world’s most famous steeplechase — a moment that transcended sport and resonated far beyond the racecourse.

Rachael Blackmore Grand National Legend honour celebrated at Aintree

The ceremony, staged just prior to racing, saw Blackmore formally inducted into the Grand National Legends roll of honour. Her commemorative plaque will take pride of place inside “Blackmore’s,” a newly unveiled alcohol-free space at the course bearing her name.

Aintree Chair Julian Taylor paid tribute to her enduring impact, describing her 2021 triumph as “a moment none of us will ever forget” and hailing her as a global sporting icon whose achievements continue to inspire.

The unveiling of Blackmore’s added a further layer of meaning to the occasion. The venue, designed as a welcoming and inclusive space, features artwork created by MurWalls in collaboration with children from Holy Rosary School in Aintree. It offers a range of refreshments and reflects a modern, thoughtful approach to racecourse facilities.

Blackmore, visibly moved, spoke warmly of her connection to Aintree and the city of Liverpool. She reflected on the significance of joining a roll of honour that includes some of the sport’s greatest names — both human and equine — describing it as “a great honour” and “something very special.”

She also welcomed the introduction of an alcohol-free venue, noting its importance in broadening the racecourse experience. With characteristic humility and humour, she added that she hoped to enjoy a hot chocolate in the space that now carries her name.

The Rachael Blackmore Grand National Legend tribute serves not only as recognition of a singular achievement, but also as a celebration of progress within the sport — a reminder of how one remarkable ride changed perceptions and opened doors for future generations.

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

A lively afternoon of all-weather racing unfolded at Southwell Racecourse on Thursday, April 9, with a packed schedule of seven races showcasing speed, stamina, and promising talent across different classes. From sharp sprint finishes to a testing staying contest, the card provided plenty of talking points.

The opening race at 2:07 PM, The Country & Western Night 25th April Fillies’ Handicap Stakes (Class 5) over 4f 215y, saw Call Margot (IRE) power to victory under jockey Connor Beasley. Breaking smartly from the gates, Call Margot showed early pace and maintained a strong gallop throughout the short trip. Her ability to hold off late challengers in a tightly contested sprint highlighted both speed and determination, setting the tone for the afternoon.

Race two at 2:42 PM, The GB Civil Engineering Maiden Stakes (Class 4), also run over 4f 215y, introduced a promising winner in Shes Got A Brother, ridden by Billy Garritty. The young runner displayed excellent early acceleration and composure despite inexperience. Taking control midway through the race, Shes Got A Brother kept finding more in the closing stages, suggesting a bright future ahead in sprint company.

The third race at 3:17 PM, The Book The Bistro In Sherwood Restaurant Handicap Stakes (Class 4), again over 4f 215y, produced another sharp performance as Master of My Fate (IRE) triumphed under Oisin Orr. Known for his consistency, the winner timed his run to perfection, tracking the leaders before quickening decisively inside the final furlong. It was a well-judged ride that ensured a comfortable finish despite strong competition.

At 3:47 PM, the focus shifted to slightly longer sprinting action in The Come Racing For Free 18th June Fillies’ Novice Stakes (Class 4) over 6f 17y. Jumeirah Sands delivered an eye-catching performance with Mason Paetel in the saddle. Showing maturity beyond her experience, she settled nicely before producing a strong late surge. Her finishing effort separated her from the field, marking her as a filly to watch in upcoming races.

The feature stamina test came at 4:25 PM in The Conference & Events At Southwell Racecourse Handicap Stakes (Class 4) over 2m 102y. Peaky Blinder (GER) emerged victorious under the guidance of top jockey Oisin Murphy. The race demanded endurance and tactical awareness, both of which were displayed impressively. Peaky Blinder stayed on strongly in the final stages, outlasting rivals in a race that required both patience and staying power.

The 4:55 PM contest, The Ladies Day Sunday 16th August Handicap Stakes (Class 4) over 1m 14y, saw Tilted Kilt (FR) secure a well-earned win with Cieren Fallon aboard. Positioned just off the pace, the winner was delivered at the right moment, showing a smooth turn of foot in the closing furlong. The performance underlined the importance of timing and positioning in middle-distance races.

The final race at 5:25 PM, The Summer Socials At Southwell Racecourse Handicap Stakes (Class 6) over 1m 14y, concluded the day on an exciting note. What Fools Believe claimed victory under David Nolan. In a competitive field, the winner displayed resilience and consistency, battling on gamely to secure the top spot. It was a fitting end to a day filled with competitive racing and strong performances.

Overall, the Southwell meeting delivered a blend of emerging talent and seasoned performers. Sprint races dominated the early part of the card, emphasizing speed and quick reactions, while the later races tested stamina and racecraft. Jockeys played a crucial role throughout, with several well-timed rides making the difference between victory and defeat.

The performances of horses like Call Margot and Jumeirah Sands stood out for their promise, while Peaky Blinder’s endurance in the longer race added variety to the day’s highlights. With competitive fields and closely fought finishes, the April 9 meeting reinforced Southwell’s reputation as a venue for thrilling all-weather racing.

As the season progresses, many of these winners are likely to return with higher expectations, and their performances here will serve as a strong foundation for future success.

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

The jumps action heads to Sedgefield on Friday, April 10, with a well-balanced six-race card that blends experienced campaigners with promising newcomers. Featuring a mix of steeplechases and hurdle contests, the afternoon promises both stamina-testing trips and intriguing developing talent across Class 4 and Class 5 company.

The opening race at 1:57 pm is a Class 4 handicap steeplechase over 2 miles 5 furlongs and 28 yards. With eight runners lining up for a prize of £8,900, this contest demands a blend of jumping accuracy and staying ability. Horses in this category are often closely matched, making race tactics and rhythm over fences crucial. The Sedgefield track, known for its sharp nature, can test consistency, especially in the closing stages where positioning becomes key.

Race two at 2:32 pm shifts focus to a maiden hurdle over 2 miles 3 furlongs and 188 yards. With just five runners competing for a £10,000 purse, this Class 4 event offers a valuable opportunity for lightly raced horses to make their mark. Maiden hurdles often serve as stepping stones for future prospects, and this race could highlight emerging talent ready to progress through the ranks. The smaller field size may result in a tactical affair, where pace judgment plays a decisive role.

The third race at 3:03 pm continues the maiden hurdle theme, this time over a slightly shorter distance of 2 miles and 178 yards. Again featuring five runners and a prize fund of £10,000, this contest may favour speedier types who can travel comfortably and quicken late. With limited runners, each participant’s jumping technique will be under scrutiny, as even minor errors can prove costly in such tightly contested races.

At 3:38 pm, the card moves into a longer-distance challenge with a Class 5 handicap steeplechase over 3 miles 2 furlongs and 59 yards. This race, worth £6,150, is the first true stamina test of the day. With only five runners, the emphasis will be on endurance and efficient jumping. Staying chases at Sedgefield often reward those who can maintain a steady gallop while conserving enough energy for the demanding final stretch. Riders will need to balance patience with positioning to ensure their mounts remain competitive throughout.

Race five at 4:13 pm presents the longest contest on the card—a Class 5 handicap hurdle over 3 miles 3 furlongs and 9 yards. With six runners competing for £6,150, this race is expected to be a thorough examination of stamina and determination. Long-distance hurdle races often produce dramatic finishes, as fatigue becomes a major factor. Horses with proven staying credentials are likely to have an advantage, while inexperienced runners may find the extended trip challenging.

The final race at 4:45 pm concludes the meeting with a Class 5 handicap hurdle over 2 miles and 178 yards. Seven runners will compete for a prize of £6,150 in what could be a more speed-oriented contest compared to the earlier staying events. This race offers an opportunity for horses to showcase their agility and pace, particularly those suited to shorter trips. A strong finish is often decisive in races of this nature, especially on a track like Sedgefield where the run-in can test a horse’s finishing effort.

Overall, the Sedgefield card provides a well-rounded mix of races catering to different types of jump horses. From developing maidens to seasoned handicappers, the meeting highlights the diversity within National Hunt racing. The variation in distances—from just over two miles to extended three-mile-plus trips—ensures that both speed and stamina are equally represented.

With competitive field sizes and varied race conditions, Friday’s meeting is set to deliver engaging action throughout the afternoon. The combination of tactical races and endurance tests makes Sedgefield an ideal stage for both emerging talent and experienced performers to shine.

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

The Schweppes Sydney Cup 2026, scheduled for Saturday, April 11 at 3:15 PM, will unfold over a demanding 3200 metres at Royal Randwick, offering a lucrative $2,000,000 prize in one of Australia’s premier Group 1 staying races. Known for pushing horses to their absolute limits, this iconic two-mile contest brings together a high-quality field of international imports and local contenders, all aiming to etch their names into racing history.

Despite the withdrawals of Campaldino (NZ) and Paradise Storm (FR), the race retains exceptional depth, with multiple runners boasting strong staying pedigrees and proven form. The Sydney Cup is not just about speed—it is a true endurance test where patience, positioning, and tactical brilliance often decide the outcome.

At the forefront is River Of Stars (IRE), prepared by leading trainer Chris Waller and partnered by top jockey James McDonald. Carrying 56.5kg, she enters as one of the most accomplished runners in the field. Her consistency at the highest level and ability to sustain a strong gallop over long distances make her a leading contender in this year’s renewal.

Waller’s powerful lineup doesn’t end there. Soul Of Spain (IRE), with Tommy Berry aboard, shapes as a serious threat with 54.5kg. Known for finishing strongly, he is expected to be ridden patiently before launching a late challenge. Valiant King (GB), carrying the same weight and ridden by Jye McNeil, adds further strength with his reliable staying form. Hutchence (GB) also represents the stable, underlining Waller’s dominance in long-distance features.

One of the key dangers is Changingoftheguard (IRE) from the Kris Lees yard, to be ridden by Jason Collett. With a weight of 55.5kg, this Irish-bred stayer brings valuable European experience, which often proves crucial in races of this nature. His ability to maintain a steady tempo over extended trips makes him a genuine winning chance.

Whisky On The Hill (GB), trained by Glen Thompson and partnered by Damian Lane, is another runner trending upward. Carrying 54.5kg, he has been building towards a race like this and could deliver a peak performance if conditions suit. His racing pattern suggests he will be competitive in the closing stages.

Ciaron Maher’s stable introduces several intriguing contenders, including Piggyback, ridden by Zac Lloyd. While relatively untested at this distance, he has the potential to improve sharply. Juja Kibo (IRE), with experienced jockey Craig Williams aboard and carrying 52kg, could benefit from a well-judged ride, while Mr Monaco (GB), under Jamie Melham, also on 52kg, profiles as a runner capable of stepping up over the staying trip.

Athabascan (FR), trained by Tom Charlton and ridden by Tom Sherry, is one of the most interesting lightweight chances. Carrying just 53kg, his European background indicates he will relish the 3200m journey. If he secures a smooth run, he could emerge as a major threat in the final stages.

The lower-weight runners often play a decisive role in staying races, and this year is no exception. Machine Gun Gracie, with 51kg and apprentice Luke Cartwright in the saddle, benefits from a valuable weight advantage. Newlook (FR), partnered by Rachel King, brings consistency and race fitness, while Litzdeel and Highland Bling (IRE), both carrying 51kg, have the profiles of runners capable of outperforming expectations.

The Schweppes Sydney Cup is renowned for its tactical complexity. Early pace is crucial, but conserving energy for the long Randwick straight is equally important. Riders must strike a delicate balance between positioning and patience, ensuring their mounts are ready to produce a sustained finish.

With a blend of experienced stayers and emerging challengers, the 2026 edition promises a captivating contest. River Of Stars sets a strong benchmark, but the competition is fierce, and several contenders are capable of rising to the occasion.

As the field turns for home, the Sydney Cup is expected to deliver a thrilling climax, with stamina and resilience determining the outcome. In a race where only the strongest prevail, this year’s renewal is poised to be a true spectacle of endurance and class.

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

Live Tracker

Live Tracker

Load More
Date Sky Cast Handicaps Acceptances Racecard Results

Other Sports

Tips & Tricks

⚡ Four rides. Four wins. One unstoppable duo at Happy Valley!

On April 8 at Happy Valley Racecourse, João Moreira delivered a masterclass in the saddle, landing 4 winners — for Caspar Fownes. A flawless partnership on the day! 🏇

🏆 Cochrane Handicap wins Decision Link 

🏆 D’Aguilar Handicap wins Golden Brilliant 

🏆 Wyndham Handicap wins Sky Cap 

🏆 On Lan Handicap wins Perfect General 

🎥: HKJC

#JoaoMoreira #CasparFownes #HappyValley #HorseRacing #Racebuzz

...

0 0
BARRIERS LOCKED. GAME ON. 🎯🏇

The final field for the Schweppes Sydney Cup is out — and it’s a wide-open staying contest over 3200m at Royal Randwick.
📅 Saturday, 11 April 2026
⏰ ~3:15 PM AEST
💰 $2,000,000 total prize pool

Who are you backing?

#SydneyCup #Randwick #racebuzz #group1 #australianracing

...

4 0
A welcome return for Leonel Reyes at Gulfstream Park. 🏇

The experienced rider is set to make his long-awaited comeback on Thursday, ending a 159-day layoff caused by the injury he sustained last November.

A former Venezuelan champion and one of South Florida’s most familiar riders, Reyes resumes his journey with momentum still ahead — and a major milestone not far away.

One of the toughest riders in the room is back. 

Read more on racebuzz.com

📷: Gulfstream Park 

#LeonelReyes #GulfstreamPark #RoyalPalmMeet #racebuzz

...

26 0
🏇 Elite jump racing takes center stage at Aintree today (Thursday ) !

The Aintree Hurdle (Grade 1) headlines a high-quality showdown on 9 April 2026 at Aintree Racecourse — where proven stars meet rising contenders over 2M 4F 💥

🔥 Key Contenders:
• Alexei – strong connections and solid form
• El Fabiolo – class act with serious credentials
• The New Lion – progressive and dangerous
• Brighterdaysahead – one to watch closely
• Golden Ace & Lucky Place – depth adds intrigue

#Aintree #HorseRacing #AintreeHurdle #Racebuzz #RacingPreview

...

3 0
🔥 A top-class showdown awaits at Aintree Racecourse!

The Racing Welfare Bowl Steeple Chase takes center stage this Thursday, 9th April 2026 at Aintree Racecourse — a true test over 3m 1f with a strong field ready to deliver.

💰 £250,000 on the line

👀 Key contenders to watch:
• Impaire Et Passe
• Jango Baie
• Pic D’Orhy
• Protektorat
• Spillane’s Tower

#Aintree #SteepleChase #HorseRacing #Racebuzz #RacingLife

...

5 0
The Bahrain stage is set for a competitive Thursday card 🇧🇭🐎

📍 Bahrain Turf Club
📅 Thursday, 9th April 2026

A packed 10-race programme awaits, headlined by the BAS Mile Cup (1600m) and the BAS Sprint Cup (1200m) — two contests that promise sharp speed and tactical battles.

💰 Competitive prize money across the evening
⏱️ First race: 4:00 PM | Last race: 8:30 PM

#BahrainTurfClub #HorseRacing #RacingSeason #ThoroughbredRacing #RaceBuzz

...

3 0

Buzz Brief

Mange Tout edges Selma De Vary in a dramatic Boodles Anniversary 4-Y-O Hurdle at Aintree, giving Gordon Elliott another major
Nan’s Choice provides a timely success for Dan and Harry Skelton, capturing the Grade Two Goffs Nickel Coin Mares’ Bumper
Barton Snow powers to a dominant seven-length victory in the Randox Foxhunters’ Chase at Aintree, securing a third win in
Brighterdaysahead produced a commanding display to land the Aintree Hurdle, confirming her strength over two and a half miles in
Aintree racecards 10 April feature a competitive jump racing card with high-quality contests set for an exciting Friday meeting.
Rachael Blackmore is inducted as a Grand National Legend at Aintree, honouring her historic 2021 victory and lasting impact on
Southwell race results 9 April highlight strong performances across a competitive all-weather racing card.
Sedgefield racecards 10 April feature a competitive jump racing card with hurdles and chases set for an exciting Friday meeting.
Schweppes Sydney Cup 11 March preview highlights key runners and race expectations for one of Australia’s leading staying contests.
Detailed preview of Al Ain Race Cards 10 April featuring ten races for Purebred Arabians across varied distances and prize
Wolverhampton Race Cards 10 April include detailed race-by-race analysis with timings, distances, prize funds, and runners
FWD Champions Day 2026 brings Ka Ying Rising and Romantic Warrior to Sha Tin for a world-class showcase featuring three
We are on YouTube