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A landmark moment in Japanese racing unfolded at Tokyo Racecourse on Sunday as Juryoku Pierrot surged to victory in the 87th running of the Yushun Himba (Japanese Oaks), handing jockey Seina Imamura a historic first JRA Grade 1 success and making her the first female rider to win a Japanese Classic race.

The fifth favourite, trained by Ryo Terashima, produced a determined late burst to defeat Dream Core and Laughterlines in the 2,400-metre championship for three-year-old fillies, run before a crowd of 44,539 at Tokyo Racecourse. The victory also marked a remarkable milestone for Juryoku Pierrot herself, who became the first filly to win the Oaks after beginning her career on dirt in 26 years.

Breaking smoothly from stall 16, Juryoku Pierrot settled towards the rear under a patient ride from Imamura as the field travelled through moderate fractions on ground officially described as good to firm. Trinity dictated the early pace while several fancied runners searched for position around the sweeping Tokyo circuit.

Imamura resisted the temptation to improve too early. The chestnut daughter of Orfevre travelled strongly entering the straight but briefly appeared boxed in as the field compressed approaching the final 400 metres. Once a narrow gap emerged down the centre, Juryoku Pierrot lengthened impressively, quickening between rivals before outstaying her challengers in a fiercely contested finish.

Dream Core, partnered by Christophe Lemaire, ran a courageous race after advancing into contention along the backstretch and briefly looking the likeliest winner inside the final furlong. However, Juryoku Pierrot’s relentless late drive carried her to the front in the closing strides, with Dream Core forced to settle for second by a neck.

Laughterlines, ridden by Damian Lane, finished strongly from a wide position to take third, also beaten only a neck, after conceding ground around the home turn.

The heavily supported favourite Star Anise endured a troubled passage throughout. Squeezed back early and repeatedly denied clear running in the straight, the Drefong filly never found rhythm and eventually faded to 12th in one of the race’s major disappointments.

For Imamura, the breakthrough carried immense emotional weight. Still only in her fifth season in the saddle, the 2022 Best Newcomer Jockey had previously managed only one graded victory and entered the Oaks with limited top-level experience.

“It’s like I’m dreaming,” Imamura said afterwards. “I’ve gone through tough losses in other attempts and always imagined winning a big race someday. Today, that dream came true.”

She also praised the toughness shown by her mount over the demanding 2,400-metre journey.

“She was taking me there rather than me driving her,” Imamura added. “She’s a very strong filly.”

The victory gave Terashima his first Grade 1 triumph since establishing his stable in 2016 and further enhanced Juryoku Pierrot’s rapidly rising reputation within Japan’s outstanding three-year-old filly division.

The Japanese Oaks 2026 result is likely to reshape the remainder of the fillies’ Triple Crown season, with Juryoku Pierrot now emerging as a leading contender for autumn honours after securing the second jewel of the series.

Realize Luminous stayed on for fourth after briefly striking the front inside the final 300 metres, while Sweet Happiness completed the top five. Enne produced one of the fastest closing sectionals from the rear to finish seventh after leaving herself with too much to do.

Run over 2,400 metres, the Yushun Himba remains Japan’s premier stamina test for three-year-old fillies and one of the country’s most prestigious races. First staged in 1938, the contest has produced numerous elite broodmares and champions, including Triple Crown heroine Liberty Island in 2023.

Juryoku Pierrot now joins an illustrious honour roll, but Sunday’s race will be remembered just as much for Imamura’s history-making ride as for the filly’s courageous finish.

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

Under the iconic New York racing venue that continues to command a strong presence in American racing, Aqueduct Racetrack will stage a competitive nine-race programme on Monday, May 25, featuring claiming events, maiden contests, and starter optional races across both dirt and turf surfaces. The card will run from 1:10 p.m. to 5:11 p.m., presenting a varied afternoon that blends sprint speed with stamina tests across multiple divisions.

Getting the card underway in sharp fashion, Race 1 will be a $45,000 Claiming Race over 6 furlongs on dirt at 1:10 p.m., where a quick break and early pace control are expected to play a decisive role. Race 2 follows at 1:38 p.m. as a $65,000 Claiming Race over 1 1/16 miles on turf, shifting the focus to stamina and tactical positioning over a longer trip that will demand patience and timing.

Maintaining competitive rhythm through the middle sprints, Race 3 will be a $57,000 Claiming Race over 6 furlongs on turf at 2:06 p.m., where sharp acceleration and clean passage will be essential. Race 4 goes to post at 2:36 p.m. as a $37,000 Claiming Race over 7 furlongs on dirt, introducing an extended sprint test where stamina begins to come under pressure in the closing stages.

Moving into the staying and development phases of the card, Race 5 will be an $85,000 Maiden Special Weight over 1 3/8 miles on turf at 3:07 p.m., the longest contest of the day where endurance and racecraft will be fully tested. Race 6 follows at 3:38 p.m. as a $48,000 Maiden Claiming Race over 6 furlongs on turf, where inexperienced runners will aim for strong early positioning in a tightly matched sprint field.

Entering the tactical final stages of the programme, Race 7 will be a $60,000 Starter Optional Claiming Race over 1 mile on dirt at 4:09 p.m., where race control and timing of the finishing move will be critical. Race 8 follows at 4:40 p.m. as a $40,000 Starter Optional Claiming Race over the same mile trip on dirt, closely mirroring conditions and placing further emphasis on positioning and efficiency.

The closing race, Race 9, will be a $57,000 Claiming Race over 6 furlongs on turf at 5:11 p.m. The final contest of the afternoon is expected to be run at a strong, sustained tempo from the outset, with several runners likely to be prominent early before the pressure builds turning for home. Over this sharp sprint trip, positioning into the final furlong could prove crucial, while those with a late finishing burst and efficient turf handling may gain a decisive edge in the closing stages of the card.

The Aqueduct Race Cards 25 May programme delivers a balanced nine-race card featuring sprint and stamina challenges across dirt and turf, with competitive fields and tactical racing expected throughout.

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

An entertaining evening of Flat racing awaits at Windsor Racecourse on Monday, 25 May, with a seven-race programme featuring handicaps, maidens and a valuable sprint feature. The card brings together experienced runners, progressive younger horses and several notable jockey bookings as connections aim for strong performances during the busy summer campaign.

The meeting begins at 2:08 PM with a Class 5 handicap over 1m 3f 108y for horses rated between 51 and 70. Staying handicaps at Windsor often reward runners with patience and stamina, especially around the long sweeping bends and demanding finish. Several runners are expected to appreciate the step up in trip, while trainers with in-form middle-distance performers could make an early impact on the card.

At 2:43 PM, attention turns to speed in a Class 4 maiden contest over 6f 12y. The race offers developing sprinters the opportunity to secure a breakthrough success. Maiden races at this stage of the season frequently showcase promising talent, and the mix of three-year-olds and older runners should create a competitive contest from the gates to the finish line.

The 3:18 PM race is a Class 3 maiden event over 1m 3f 108y. Several well-bred runners from leading yards are expected to line up in a race that could produce future middle-distance performers. Windsor’s layout often tests stamina and balance, particularly for inexperienced horses still learning their trade under race conditions.

The feature event of the afternoon arrives at 3:53 PM with a Class 2 sprint handicap worth £30,000 over 6f 12y. The race serves as a qualifier for the Windsor Sprint Series and has attracted a competitive field featuring proven sprint specialists and experienced handicappers. With ratings ranging from 81 to 100, the contest promises strong pace and an exciting finish on Windsor’s fast track.

The Robert Cowell-trained runner carrying top weight enters the race with a rating of 99 after recent competitive efforts at a higher level. Trefor, partnered by Tom Marquand for trainer Charles Hills, has previous course-and-distance form and remains one of the experienced sprinters in the field. Desert Cop represents George Baker’s stable and arrives after several consistent efforts, while Nad Alshiba Green has shown improving form for Clive Cox and could continue progressing in handicap company.

Uncle Don lines up with Jack Callan taking a valuable 3lb claim for trainer Robert Cowell, while Sudden Flight returns after a lengthy absence for Richard Hughes. Justcallmepete, partnered by Myla Coppins, adds further experience to the lineup and arrives after a recent placed finish. The combination of proven performers and improving runners should ensure one of the most competitive races on the card.

At 4:25 PM comes a Class 3 handicap over 1m 2f 9y for horses rated between 76 and 95. The contest is expected to feature progressive middle-distance runners capable of competing at a higher level later in the season. Windsor’s turning circuit can suit horses with tactical speed and the ability to quicken approaching the straight.

The penultimate contest at 5:00 PM is another Class 3 handicap over 1m 40y. The race has attracted runners rated between 71 and 90, creating another closely matched contest. The mile trip at Windsor regularly produces tactical races where positioning and timing prove crucial during the closing stages.

The meeting concludes at 5:30 PM with a Class 6 handicap for three-year-olds over 1m 40y. Lower-grade handicaps often provide opportunities for lightly raced horses to improve their ratings and gain valuable experience. Trainers and jockeys will be hoping younger runners can finish the evening on a positive note before attention shifts to upcoming summer fixtures.

Windsor’s Monday meetings remain popular due to their competitive fields and scenic riverside setting. With valuable sprint action, promising maiden contests and competitive handicaps across varying distances, the latest fixture is expected to provide an enjoyable evening of British Flat racing.

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

A competitive seven-race jumps programme awaits racing fans at Cartmel Racecourse on Bank Holiday Monday, May 25, with quality handicap hurdles and steeplechases set to provide an entertaining afternoon in Cumbria.

Famous for its scenic surroundings and unique atmosphere, Cartmel remains one of the most distinctive venues in British jump racing. The tight turns, long finishing straight and enthusiastic holiday crowds regularly create memorable contests, and Monday’s fixture looks packed with intrigue from start to finish.

The afternoon begins at 1:38pm with The Hadwins Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle Race, a Class 4 contest over 2m 1f 46y worth £10,000. Restricted to mares aged four and above, the race offers progressive novice hurdlers the chance to continue their development during the latter stages of the jumps season.

Novice hurdles at Cartmel often reward horses with tactical speed and accurate jumping. The extended run-in after the final hurdle can also produce dramatic late finishes, especially when several lightly raced runners are still learning their trade.

At 2:13pm, the first division of The Johnny & Tony Connell Memorial Handicap Hurdle takes centre stage over 2m 6f 31y. The Class 5 contest for horses rated 0-100 offers a £7,000 prize fund and should provide a stern stamina test for staying hurdlers.

The second division follows at 2:48pm under identical conditions. Divided races are a reflection of strong entries and underline the popularity of Cartmel’s spring fixtures among trainers from Britain and Ireland. Staying handicap hurdles at the venue frequently produce closely fought finishes as jockeys carefully manage their mounts around the demanding circuit.

The feature event of the afternoon arrives at 3:23pm with The RF Miller & Co Handicap Hurdle, a valuable Class 2 contest over 3m 1f 83y carrying prize money of £30,100. The race has attracted an experienced and competitive field of staying hurdlers with several arriving in strong recent form.

Among the leading contenders is Lipa K from the stable of Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero. The eight-year-old enjoyed a productive campaign last season and arrives after back-to-back victories before the break. Imperial Data has previous course-and-distance form and could benefit from returning to familiar surroundings, while Al Sayah represents Neil Mulholland after a solid recent effort. Jamie Snowden’s runner also commands respect after posting consistent performances in competitive handicaps.

Sean Bowen partners Lord Snootie for Christian Williams, while Dan Skelton saddles Tranquil Sea, another runner capable of making an impact over staying distances. Musique de Fee, a previous course-and-distance performer, adds further depth to the field alongside Speed Davis, who arrives seeking a hat-trick after consecutive wins. Kilmore Rock and Highland Fashion also bring useful staying form into the contest, ensuring the feature hurdle promises to be one of the highlights of the entire meeting.

At 3:58pm, attention switches to fences with The Hugh Cavendish Veterans’ Handicap Steeple Chase over 3m 5f 80y. Open to horses aged nine and above, the Class 3 event is expected to provide a thorough stamina examination for experienced staying chasers.

Veteran races often produce emotional and competitive contests, with older horses relying on experience and jumping accuracy. Cartmel’s unique layout can suit seasoned campaigners who know how to conserve energy before making their move in the closing stages.

The penultimate race at 4:36pm is The Molson Coors Handicap Steeple Chase, a Class 3 contest over 2m 1f 61y with £13,425 on offer. The sharper distance could favour prominent racers capable of maintaining rhythm over the fences on the tight track.

Fast and accurate jumping is frequently essential in Cartmel’s shorter chases, where positioning around bends can make a major difference. The race is expected to feature several experienced handicap chasers looking to capitalise on favourable spring conditions.

The meeting concludes at 5:11pm with The Warrior Down Handicap Steeple Chase over 2m 5f 34y. Another competitive Class 3 event, the finale should provide a fitting end to the Bank Holiday programme with middle-distance chasers battling for valuable prize money.

Cartmel’s long home straight regularly creates thrilling finishes in handicap chases, giving hold-up horses opportunities to challenge late after conserving energy early in the race. Tactical awareness from jockeys is therefore likely to prove crucial once again.

The Bank Holiday fixture continues Cartmel’s tradition of combining quality jump racing with a relaxed festival atmosphere that attracts spectators from across the country. With competitive fields, valuable prize money and several intriguing staying contests, Monday’s meeting promises another memorable afternoon at one of Britain’s most loved jump racing venues.

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

From a competitive midweek National Hunt fixture to a compact but testing six-race programme, attention will turn to Huntingdon Racecourse on Monday, 25 May, as it stages an afternoon card featuring hurdles and steeple chases across varied distances. The programme will run from 12:30pm to 3:10pm, covering trips from 1m 7f to 3m 1f 10y, with prize money spread across Class 4 and Class 5 contests. Fields will range from four to six runners, combining staying handicaps, maiden hurdles, and chase races under competitive conditions.

The opening contest at 12:30pm, the Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (Class 4), will be run over 3m 1f 10y with a prize fund of £8,750. The five-runner field will include Juggernaut, Alan Bresil, Another Day Out, Geordie Night, and The Wise Traveller. This extended-distance hurdle for 4YO+ runners will place strong emphasis on stamina and measured jumping, with the long trip expected to test each runner’s endurance and race rhythm.

The action will continue at 1:00pm with the Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 5), scheduled over 2m 7f 129y and carrying £9,750 in prize money. Slaney Opera, Cloudy Wednesday, Uncle Al, and Crac de Megaudais will take part in this 5YO+ chase. With nearly three miles to cover, accurate jumping and the ability to maintain momentum through the later stages will be essential in what is expected to be a tactical contest.

At 1:30pm, the Maiden Hurdle (Class 4, GBB Race) will be staged over 1m 7f 171y with £10,000 on offer. The six declared runners will be Eternal Angel, Land of Dreams, Sword of Wessex, Crazy About Her, Palma Springs, and Tangled Webb. As a 4YO+ maiden event, this race will focus on developing hurdlers gaining experience, with improvement and adaptability over obstacles likely to be closely observed.

The card will move to the Mares’ Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 5) at 2:00pm, run over 2m 3f 189y with £7,250 in prize money. Lady’s Choice, Lady Jago, Ballyhiho, Kill The Groove, and She Won’t Mind will line up in this 5YO+ mares-only contest. With a compact field, positioning and fluent jumping will play a key role, especially in the middle stages where rhythm will be crucial.

At 2:35pm, the Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) will take place over 1m 7f 171y for £6,750. The five runners—Stay In The Game, Knighton, Saachi, Sunset In Paris, and Hellion will compete in a race for 4YO+ novices still progressing through their hurdling careers. Consistency and continued development will be central to their chances in what is expected to be a closely matched contest.

The final race at 3:10pm, the Handicap Hurdle (Class 5), will be run over 2m 4f 145y with £6,750 in prize money. The field will include The Truant, Tyson, Kentucky River, Below The Belt, Charlie My Boy, and Raffles Nobu. This closing contest will bring together a competitive six-runner handicap where race positioning, stamina, and timing of effort will be decisive factors.

Across the six-race fixture, stamina and jumping accuracy will remain consistent themes throughout the afternoon, particularly in the longer-distance events where pacing and endurance will strongly influence outcomes.

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

A competitive seven-race meeting at Fontwell Park Racecourse on Sunday, 24 May delivered a mix of promising novice performances, determined staying displays and impressive handicap victories as racegoers enjoyed an entertaining afternoon of summer jumps action.

The card opened with the 2:00pm KSR Lighting Novices’ Hurdle Race over 2m 3f 137y, where Handmedownastar (IRE) produced a polished effort to land the Class 4 contest under jockey Harry Cobden. The Neil Mulholland-trained runner travelled strongly throughout before asserting in the closing stages. The performance suggested there could be more to come from the improving novice, who handled the Fontwell undulations well and stayed on with authority after the final hurdle. Cobden delivered a confident ride, positioning the gelding perfectly before asking for maximum effort on the run-in.

The 2:35pm V2 Radio Handicap Hurdle over 2m 2f 50y saw Shalfa (IRE) emerge victorious in the Class 5 contest with Marc Goldstein in the saddle. The winner travelled prominently for much of the race and responded gamely when challenged late on. Several runners were still in contention turning for home, but Shalfa showed admirable determination to pull clear in the closing strides. The victory marked another solid performance in handicap company and demonstrated the horse’s consistency over middle distances.

One of the feature races of the afternoon came in the 3:10pm Sun Racing Summer Jumps Championship Handicap Steeple Chase, an ARC Summer Chase Series qualifier run over 3m 1f 210y. Prince Cleni (FR), partnered by Gavin Sheehan, produced a strong staying performance to capture the Class 5 chase. The French-bred runner jumped accurately throughout and gradually wore down rivals in the final circuit. Sheehan kept the gelding in a rhythm from an early stage before making his move approaching the final fences. Prince Cleni found plenty in reserve on the long run to the line, rewarding connections with a determined success in the staying contest.

The 3:45pm Mercedes-Benz of Chichester Mares’ Handicap Hurdle over 2m 6f 52y saw Smugglers Haven (IRE) claim top honours under amateur rider Lily Bradstock. The mare showed stamina and resilience to secure victory in the Class 4 event. After sitting just behind the pace during the early stages, Smugglers Haven moved smoothly into contention before taking command after the final hurdle. Bradstock timed her challenge effectively, guiding the mare to a well-earned success as rivals struggled to match her finishing effort in the testing closing stages.

Stamina was again the key factor in the 4:20pm Southcoast Homecare Excellence In Care Handicap Hurdle over an extended 3m 2f 108y. Cinderello, ridden by Jack Hogan, stayed on strongly to secure victory in the Class 5 contest. The winner appeared comfortable over the marathon distance and gradually asserted approaching the home straight. Several competitors began to weaken turning for home, but Cinderello maintained momentum and galloped relentlessly to the line. Hogan judged the pace well and ensured the gelding conserved enough energy for a decisive late challenge.

The penultimate race on the card, the 4:55pm A.W. Jeffreys (Southampton) Ltd Handicap Steeple Chase over 2m 3f 104y, produced another competitive finish as Footloose Man came out on top with Charlie Price aboard. The Class 5 chase developed into a closely fought contest between several runners jumping the final fence, but Footloose Man found extra on the run-in to edge clear. Accurate jumping proved crucial around Fontwell’s unique figure-of-eight layout, and the winner rarely put a foot wrong throughout the race. Price delivered a composed ride and kept the gelding focused during the pressure moments late in the contest.

The meeting concluded with the 5:30pm Land & Power Mares’ Open Maiden National Hunt Flat Race over 2m 2f 50y, where Kentford Legacy gave connections plenty to celebrate under Daniel Sansom. The mare displayed promise and professionalism on debut in bumper company, travelling comfortably before quickening impressively in the closing stages. The performance hinted at a bright future over hurdles later on, with Kentford Legacy showing both pace and stamina in equal measure.

Sunday’s meeting once again highlighted the appeal of summer jumps racing at Fontwell Park, with competitive fields, determined performances and several emerging talents catching the eye across the afternoon. Winning riders including Harry Cobden, Gavin Sheehan and Jack Hogan all produced confident displays in the saddle, while trainers enjoyed valuable successes during the busy summer campaign.

The varied nature of the card ensured racegoers were treated to an entertaining blend of novice hurdles, staying contests, handicap chases and bumper action. As the summer jumps season continues, several winners from the Fontwell programme could now progress to stronger assignments in the weeks ahead following their encouraging victories on the Sussex circuit.

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

Under the historic turf of Leicester Racecourse, a well-contested seven-race programme will unfold on Monday, 25 May, featuring a blend of maiden fillies’ events, novice contests, and tightly framed handicaps across sprint and staying distances. The afternoon meeting will bring together large fields in the early races, followed by more tactical and evenly matched handicaps as the card progresses. Conditions will be closely watched as runners step out over distances ranging from 6f to 1m 3f 179y.

Kicking off the afternoon’s action in traditional maiden fillies’ company, the Picnic at the Races Day Restricted Maiden Fillies’ Stakes (Class 5) will be staged at 1:55pm, run over 6f for £8,000 in prize money. A field of 12 runners will go to post, including Bundok, Lavender Bloom, Luna Celeste, Sierra Sue, Turtle Creek, and Rubistar, all set for an early test of speed and potential. This opening contest will largely depend on which newcomer settles best under race conditions.

Following on with a stronger stamina examination, the British EBF Restricted Novice Stakes (Class 4) will take place at 2:29pm, over 1m 2f with £10,000 in prize money, featuring 13 runners. Rogue Defence, Spiritoftheblues, Astracornus, Cosmo Brown, Fabled Spirit, and HowLuckyAreWe headline a field that will demand both endurance and racecraft. The extended trip will likely expose any lack of staying power late on.

At the heart of the afternoon programme, the Heather Small Plays Ladies’ Day Saturday 4th July Handicap Stakes (Class 6) will go to post at 3:04pm, run over 7f for £6,000 in prize money and attracting 11 runners. Havana Mojito, Ravenglass, Oh So Audacious, Back From Dubai, Grand Citadel, and Edergole’s Gift will line up in a handicap likely to reward efficient positioning. A strong pace could play into the hands of closers in the final furlong.

Shifting back to sprint conditions in the mid-card stage, the Smooth Radio Ladies’ Day Saturday 4th July Handicap Stakes (Class 5) will be run at 3:40pm, over 6f, offering £7,000 in prize money with 8 runners declared. Shazani, Jimmy Knocker, Spirit of Jenny, Dark Side Thunder, Skellig Isle, and Looks Fantastic will contest a closely matched sprint where fractions of a second will matter. A sharp break from the stalls is expected to be vital over this trip.

Entering the later phase of the fixture with a tactical middle-distance test, the Go West Plays Ladies’ Day Saturday 4th July Handicap Stakes (Class 4) will be staged at 4:15pm, covering 1m 2f for £10,000 in prize money and featuring 6 runners. Hamadhan, Rockin’ The Boat, Diderot, Mythical Bird, Qitaal, and Alta Rica will compete in a race expected to unfold in stages. The finishing kick in the final two furlongs may prove decisive.

Approaching the business end of the card with a highly competitive sprint handicap, the Handicap Stakes (Class 3) will be run at 4:50pm, over 6f, with a strong £18,000 prize fund and 12 runners. Rogue Supremacy, Do Bronxs, First Legion, Pilu, Inca Heights, and Front Line Fury are among the key names in a deep field. Traffic problems in-running could play a major role in the outcome.

Bringing the afternoon meeting to a stamina-driven conclusion, the Racing Again Tomorrow Apprentice Handicap Stakes (Class 6) will take place at 5:23pm, run over 1m 3f 179y for £6,000 in prize money and featuring 8 runners. Moon Over The Sea, Rose Warrior, Abila, Little She, Gearing’s Point, and Clipsham Noble will round off the card with apprentice riders in focus. Staying power and late judgment will be tested to the limit in the closing stages.

Across the fixture, race tempo, track position, and finishing stamina will play defining roles, particularly in the longer-distance handicaps where marginal gains are expected to prove decisive. The Leicester Race Cards 25 May will present a competitive seven-race programme at Leicester Racecourse featuring a balanced mix of sprint and staying contests across all divisions.

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

The grandstands at Sha Tin Racecourse rose in celebration on Sunday as Romantic Warrior etched his name deeper into racing history, becoming only the third horse to complete Hong Kong’s coveted Triple Crown with victory in the Group 1 Champions & Chater Cup over 2400 metres.

Already regarded as one of the modern greats of international racing, the Danny Shum-trained star produced another performance of composure and class under James McDonald to claim his 15th Group 1 success and further strengthen his standing among the sport’s immortals.

Hong Kong Triple Crown winner Romantic Warrior.

The HK$13 million staying feature unfolded at a measured tempo before Romantic Warrior gradually moved into contention approaching the home straight. Sitting fourth for much of the contest behind Numbers and Romantic Thor, the eight-year-old travelled powerfully before McDonald asked him to quicken inside the final 400 metres.

Numbers fought resolutely in front, but Romantic Warrior’s trademark acceleration carried him past in the closing stages, asserting near the 50-metre mark to score by half a length. Deep Monster finished strongly for third, another length and a half away, while the winning time of 2m 26.67s matched the mark set by Voyage Bubble in last season’s edition.

The triumph secured a HK$10 million Triple Crown bonus and elevated Romantic Warrior’s career earnings to a world-record HK$288.7 million for owner Peter Lau. More importantly, it placed him alongside River Verdon and Voyage Bubble as the only horses to sweep Hong Kong’s Triple Crown series.

Trainer Danny Shum was visibly emotional after the race and praised both his stable team and McDonald’s perfectly judged ride.

“I’m such a lucky guy, lucky trainer — because I can train Romantic Warrior,” Shum said.

“Before the race we already set up the plan — let him relax and try to hit the front late. James has done a great job, he’s a top-class jockey.”

Romantic Warrior has now won 24 of his 31 starts, with victories ranging from 1600 metres to 2400 metres at the elite level. Shum indicated the champion would now enjoy a well-earned break before any plans are made for next season.

The trainer is considering sending the gelding to Conghua for a spell, following the successful experience enjoyed there by stablemate Ka Ying Rising.

McDonald, who has partnered the champion through many of his finest international moments, said Sunday’s result merely confirmed what racing followers already believed.

“He’s a Triple Crown winner and he thoroughly deserved it,” McDonald said.

“He didn’t need this race to prove he was already an immortal, but this is the cherry on top. He should be Horse of the Year and I think he stamped that by winning the Triple Crown.”

Away from the feature event, Zac Purton moved to within two victories of the 2,000-win milestone in Hong Kong after riding a treble on Flying Amani, Come Fast Fay Fay and Packing King.

The victories also strengthened Danny Shum’s position in the trainers’ championship standings as the season heads toward its closing stages. Shum now leads the premiership race with 56 wins, narrowly ahead of Caspar Fownes, Mark Newnham and Francis Lui.

Caspar Fownes remained firmly in contention after Monarch County produced a dominant display under Joao Moreira, while David Hayes celebrated success with promising three-year-old My Mars.

Elsewhere on the card, Mighty Strength, Conrad Patch, Big Return, Six Pack and The Red Hare all registered notable victories as another strong Sha Tin programme drew to a close.

Hong Kong racing now shifts to Happy Valley Racecourse for Wednesday night’s meeting on 27 May.

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

A dramatic finish and subsequent stewards’ inquiry reshaped the outcome of Saturday’s $100,000 Game Face Stakes at Gulfstream Park, where Lennilu was elevated to victory after Love Like Lucy was disqualified following interference in the stretch run.

The six-furlong contest for three-year-old fillies appeared headed for a narrow victory by Love Like Lucy, but officials ruled that the outward drift of the Saffie Joseph Jr.-trained runner had impeded Lennilu’s momentum at a crucial stage of the race. Following review, the Patrick Biancone-trained Lennilu was placed first, securing another stakes success for the versatile filly.

Sent off the strong favourite, Lennilu settled comfortably in third under jockey Jonathan Ocasio while racing along the rail. Turning for home, she moved between Love Like Lucy and Canton before finding her path restricted as Love Like Lucy shifted outward under pressure.

Forced to switch course late in the stretch, Lennilu rallied gamely on the outside and crossed the line a neck behind the original winner before the placings were amended. Canton finished third, two and a half lengths adrift of the top pair.

“She’s just a fighter. She likes to fight. Even when you bump her, she keeps coming,” trainer Patrick Biancone said after the race. “She’s very brave. She’s 3-for-3 on the dirt and hopefully she can improve. I think when we go a bit longer, like seven furlongs, she’ll be better.”

Lennilu completed the six furlongs in 1:10.90, further strengthening her remarkable record at Gulfstream, where she has now won five times from as many appearances.

Ocasio praised the filly’s professionalism after navigating the troubled passage in the straight.

“She responded to everything. I just waited for the best moment and in the stretch I tried to do the best I could. It got a little close there, but we got it,” the rider said.

Love Like Lucy, ridden prominently by Nic Juarez, had been racing without blinkers for the first time since her previous meeting with Lennilu in last season’s FTBOA Susan’s Girl Stakes. Despite the disqualification, trainer Saffie Joseph Jr. was encouraged by the performance.

“I thought there was pressure from both sides. You have to accept the decisions,” Joseph said. “She did run huge. It’s hard to see her run like that and get disqualified but there’s nothing you can do.”

The victory added another notable chapter to Lennilu’s already accomplished young career. The daughter of Leinster began her racing career with a dirt win at Keeneland before capturing the Royal Palm Juvenile Fillies at Gulfstream. That success earned her a berth at Royal Ascot, where she finished third in the Queen Mary Stakes (G2).

Back in the United States, Lennilu returned to dirt to claim the Desert Vixen Stakes before later defeating male rivals in the Hollywood Beach Stakes on turf. Her 2026 season opened with victory in the Melody of Colors Stakes before a respectable fifth-place finish in the Limestone Stakes (G3) at Keeneland last month.

Biancone indicated that another Gulfstream target could await in the coming weeks, with bigger assignments potentially on the horizon should Lennilu continue her upward trajectory.

Saturday’s card also produced a standout riding performance from leading jockey Samy Camacho, who registered a riding treble aboard Operation Torch, Spy Novel and World Traveler.

Attention now shifts to Sunday’s programme at Gulfstream Park, where the Rainbow 6 jackpot pool is projected to reach $150,000 following five consecutive days without a unique winning ticket. The nine-race card features several competitive allowance contests, including appearances from Grade 3-placed veteran Mish and multiple stakes-winning mare Indy Bay.

The Lennilu Game Face Stakes win further established the filly as one of the most dependable young performers currently racing at Gulfstream Park, particularly on dirt, where she remains unbeaten.

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

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Tips & Tricks

Numbers that define a champion 📊🏆

Silvestre De Sousa

🏇 412 rides
🥇 54 wins
📈 13.1% strike rate
UAE Champion Jockey 2025–26 🇦🇪

And yes… he did it last season too. 

Back-to-back titles sealed in style. 👑

#silvestredesousa #uaeracing #championjockey #racebuzz

...

87 3
🏇 Talkin is being lined up for the 151st Preakness Stakes at Laurel Park after a solid third in the Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland.

Trainer Danny Gargan is opting for a patient approach, targeting a smaller field and a more suitable trip over 1 3/16 miles.

With Joel Rosario likely to retain the ride, the colt now heads into his final preparations with Classic ambitions firmly in sight.

Read more on Racebuzz.com

#Preakness #HorseRacing #TripleCrown #racebuzz

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10 0
🎥 Throwback to this memorable Pune victory from the archives.
🏆 Golden Kingdom landed The Suresh Mahindra Trophy in fine style, producing a staying performance to take the feature on 11 October 2025. 👑🐎

Ridden by Antony Raj S. and trained by Adhiraj Singh Jodha, the winner struck over 3200 metres in the 5:15 PM contest for a total prize of ₹12,00,000.

Owners: Mr Kishore P Rungta, Mr Sudendu Shah, Mrs Pooja S Shah, Mrs Hiral Shah, Dr Rahul Shah, Mrs Preeti C Shah, Mr K M Shah & Mr Tanmay V Mathurawala.

#GoldenKingdom #Racebuzz #HorseRacing #Winner #Champions RaceDay Thoroughbred RacingGlory

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350 1
Nichola Yuen’s remarkable start in Hong Kong racing gathered further pace with a first career double at Sha Tin on April 12 🏇✨

The apprentice guided Flashing Fighter to victory in the Class 4 Hart Handicap over 1200m before Fortune Link followed up in the Class 3 Jordan Handicap over 1400m, maintaining a perfect record of riding winners at each of her first three meetings in the city. 🌟

Both winners were prepared by Ricky Yiu, making it an especially notable afternoon for the stable as Yuen also shared the Jockey Challenge on the day. 🏆

Read more at racebuzz.com

#ShaTin #HongKongRacing #racebuzz #HorseRacing #RacingNews

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8 0
🏆 Arabian Triple Crown R3 goes to AZZAM AH after a powerful finish at Abu Dhabi Turf Club on April 11. 🐎🔥

The AED 300,000 feature 💰 over 2200m 📏 was decided with authority as the winner stamped class on the field.

Jockey: Sandro Paiva
Trainer: Qaiss Aboud
Owner: Ali Haddad

#ABUDHABITURFCLUB #UAEracing #racebuzz #HORSERACING

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60 3
A first winner is always special. This one meant everything.

War to Remember delivered trainer Christopher Hall’s first career success at Gulfstream Park, fighting back gamely over 5½ furlongs on Tapeta to seal a memorable result.

Read more at racebuzz.com

#ChristopherHall #GulfstreamPark
#racebuzz #HorseRacing #WarToRemember

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32 0
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