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Saturday’s juvenile turf features at Gulfstream Park produced two performances with international implications, as Celtic Dispute and Liberty Rings earned automatic invitations to compete at this summer’s Royal Ascot meeting with determined victories in the Royal Palm stakes events.

Dew Sweepers’ Celtic Dispute caused a mild upset in the $125,000 Royal Palm Juvenile, edging out heavily fancied Skara Brae by a neck in her first attempt on turf and her first outing in open stakes company. The five-furlong contest for 2-year-olds carried more than domestic significance, with the winner securing entry into one of six races during the prestigious Royal Ascot meeting at Ascot Racecourse in June, along with a travel allowance.

Trainer Patrick Biancone elected to run Celtic Dispute against the colts largely because the ownership group already had a strong contender in the companion fillies’ event later on the card. Even so, it was another filly, the Wesley Ward-trained Skara Brae, who emerged as her main rival.

Breaking sharply under Luis Saez, Celtic Dispute tracked Skara Brae through swift fractions of 21.28 seconds for the opening quarter-mile and 44.94 for the half before launching a sustained late challenge in the stretch. The daughter of turf influences responded gamely inside the final furlong to collar the favourite close home and stop the clock in 56.17 seconds.

“You don’t have to be a genius to know that Wesley is going to the front,” Biancone said afterward. “I said to Luis, ‘Don’t worry. If he wants to go, let him go, and we’ll catch him later.’”

Skara Brae, partnered by Joe Bravo, held second by 4¾ lengths from Braums Run after showing the way for much of the journey.

The result continued Biancone’s recent success in the Royal Palm series at Gulfstream Park. Last season, he captured the Royal Palm Juvenile Fillies with Lennilu before that filly went on to finish third in the Queen Mary Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Later on the Gulfstream Park programme, Liberty Rings delivered a breakthrough moment for trainer Nicholas Palmer with a front-running victory in the $125,000 Royal Palm Juvenile Fillies.

Making just her second career appearance and her first on grass, the daughter of Awesome Slew showed immediate speed under Miguel Vasquez and never surrendered control. She set fractions of 21.76 and 44.50 seconds before drawing clear to score by 1¼ lengths in 56.58 seconds.

“She looks like a turf horse, big and scopey and a large foot. We figured it was worth a shot,” Palmer said. “We really don’t get a chance to run in races like this very often.”

Royal Palm Juvenile Fillies at Gulfstream Park.

Palmer admitted he expected his filly to show more speed on debut when she finished third on dirt, beaten only half a length after a wide rally. That earlier experience appeared to sharpen her considerably for Saturday’s assignment.

“Not surprised she made the lead. Surprised in her first race she wasn’t loose on the lead,” Palmer added. “But I think that race really tightened the screws and got her focused.”

The victory provided Palmer with his first stakes triumph and an emotional milestone for the stable run alongside his parents, Teresa and David Palmer.

“It’s a career-defining moment. We’ve been trying really hard to win a stakes, so this is a big deal for us,” he said.

Hall of Fame trainer Mark Casse saddled the second- and third-placed finishers, Pros and Cons and Sass Sass, while race favourite Pot’s Right never threatened and finished fourth.

Like Celtic Dispute earlier in the afternoon at Gulfstream Park, Liberty Rings also secured automatic entry into one of the juvenile races at Royal Ascot along with a $25,000 travel stipend.

“I want to go. Hopefully I talk them into going,” Palmer said with a smile, hopeful Liberty Rings will make the trip to England next month.

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

Esteemed among the enduring strongholds of British provincial racing, Catterick Racecourse will stage a refined six-race programme on Monday, 11 May, with a cumulative purse of £48,500 enriching an afternoon of apprentice handicaps, novice examinations, brisk sprint contests and stamina-demanding staying events. The North Yorkshire venue, where sharp bends often test balance almost as much as ability, will once again welcome a diverse collection of seasoned campaigners, aspiring younger performers and ambitious riders seeking a productive afternoon on the flat.

The curtain will rise at 2:30pm with the Racing Welfare Reminiscence Day Apprentice Handicap Stakes (Class 6), a 7f 6y contest for horses aged four years and older carrying prize money of £7,500. Fourteen runners are expected to assemble for the opening encounter, including Mount Ruapehu, Carlton And Co, Kings Merchant, How Impressive, Hostility, Travis and Patontheback. Around Catterick’s notably tight configuration, the apprentice riders will require precision, composure and perhaps the occasional favour from fortune to secure advantageous early positions.

Attention will then turn towards the 3:00pm Racing Welfare Supporting Mental Health Awareness Restricted Novice Stakes (Class 5), a £9,000 contest staged over 7f 6y for three-year-olds. A field of 11 runners featuring Different Opinions, Vega Storm, Zarvali, Alcanzor, Big Shot Veto and Highland Shah is expected to provide an illuminating assessment of emerging talent. Several of the younger contenders will arrive with reputations still very much under construction, although Catterick has historically shown little patience for inexperience disguised as confidence.

Endurance will assume greater significance at 3:30pm in the Mick Rose Turns 70 Handicap Stakes (Class 6), contested over 1m 7f 189y with prize money of £8,500. The eight-runner staying event will feature Stellarmasterpiece, Zimmerman, Wasthatok, Himself, Arctic Fox and Stand Strong among the declared participants. Over a journey approaching two miles, measured rhythm and conservation of energy are likely to prove decisive, particularly for runners discovering that enthusiasm in the opening furlongs can occasionally become an expensive luxury later on.

The tempo will rise sharply at 4:00pm in the Raceday Ready App Handicap Stakes (Class 6), a swift 5f sprint carrying a purse of £7,500. Eleven runners are expected to charge from the stalls, including Irish Dancer, Golden Prosperity, Siviez, Lady Bouquet, Monticristo Boy, Ninety Nine and Newyorkstateofmind. On Catterick’s downhill sprint track, hesitation is seldom rewarded generously, and those conceding ground early may find themselves admiring rivals disappearing towards the winning post with alarming efficiency.

The 4:30pm Every Race Live Handicap Stakes (Class 6) will provide another searching contest, with 14 runners declared for the 1m 4f 13y event worth £7,500. Stitching Wheel, Free Pic, Tracker Issue, Raysham, Inspiring Speeches and Lady Buttercup are among the experienced names expected to line up. The staying handicap is likely to develop into a thorough examination of resilience and tactical patience, qualities invariably appreciated at a venue where momentum can evaporate almost as quickly as optimism.

The concluding race at 5:00pm, the Racing Again 21st May Fillies’ Handicap Stakes (Class 5), will be contested over 5f 212y with £9,000 in prize money available. Arctic Summer, Betties Bay, Surprised, Lily Pearl, North West Gal, Pull The Rug and Homestrait headline an eight-runner field set to close the programme. The finale is expected to provide a suitably brisk conclusion to the afternoon card, particularly for those spectators who prefer their sprint races resolved before tea begins to cool.

The £48,500 six-race programme at Catterick Racecourse will combine competitive handicaps, progressive novice contests and sharp sprint races across a varied Monday fixture in North Yorkshire.

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

An exciting evening of all-weather racing awaits at Wolverhampton Racecourse on Monday, 11 May, with a six-race programme featuring promising juveniles, experienced handicappers, and talented fillies. The fixture combines sprint contests, staying races, and competitive middle-distance events under the floodlights on Wolverhampton’s Tapeta surface.

The meeting opens at 6:30 PM with the Restricted Novice Stakes, a Class 5 contest over 6 furlongs and 20 yards for two-year-olds. Carrying prize money of £8,000, the race is expected to showcase several young horses beginning their racing journeys. Wolverhampton’s all-weather track often provides an ideal environment for juveniles to gain experience, and the opener could produce exciting future prospects.

At 7:00 PM, attention turns to the Monday Handicap Stakes. The Class 6 contest over 1 mile, 5 furlongs, and 219 yards is open to horses aged four years and above with ratings between 46 and 65. With £6,200 on offer, the race is likely to test stamina and tactical awareness, particularly around Wolverhampton’s turning layout where positioning can prove crucial in the closing stages.

The 7:30 PM race, the Mental Health Awareness Week Handicap Stakes, adds an important social message to the evening. Run over 1 mile, 1 furlong, and 105 yards, the Class 6 contest offers £9,000 in prize money and is open to older horses rated between 46 and 60. The race highlights awareness surrounding mental health while also promising a competitive middle-distance battle under the lights.

One of the evening’s major attractions arrives at 8:00 PM with the Fillies’ Novice Stakes, the richest race on the card with a prize fund of £12,000. The Class 3 contest over 1 mile, 1 furlong, and 104 yards has attracted an interesting line-up of fillies and mares representing some of Britain’s leading trainers and jockeys.

Among the runners is She Commands, ridden by Rossa Ryan and trained by Richard Phillips. The mare arrives with previous winning form and carries top weight of 10st 2lbs. Ralph Beckett saddles She Commands and Musical Accord, adding further strength to the field. She Commands will be partnered by Ryan, while Musical Accord represents the ownership of Mrs Doreen Tabor after making her racecourse debut earlier in the season.

The Gosden stable is represented by Celestra, who will be ridden by Oisin Murphy. The filly has already shown consistency in her recent appearances and enters the race with a BHA rating of 81. Hot Silk, trained by James Fanshawe and partnered by Daniel Muscutt, also adds depth to the contest after showing promise in earlier outings. Wild Violet, trained by Michael Bell and ridden by Hector Crouch, completes an intriguing field after a promising debut performance. The race is expected to provide an important stepping stone for several progressive fillies aiming for higher-level opportunities later in the season.

The action continues at 8:30 PM with the Racing Welfare Handicap Stakes. The Class 6 race over 1 mile and 143 yards carries prize money of £6,200 and features runners rated between 46 and 55. Racing Welfare continues to play an important role within British racing by supporting stable staff and industry workers, making the race an important part of the evening’s programme.

The final contest of the night comes at 9:00 PM with the Fillies’ Handicap Stakes. Run over 1 mile and 142 yards, the Class 5 event offers £7,600 in prize money and is open to fillies aged three years and above rated between 56 and 75. The finale is expected to provide a competitive conclusion to the meeting, with progressive fillies and experienced handicappers looking to finish the evening strongly.

Wolverhampton’s Tapeta surface continues to provide reliable racing conditions throughout the season, making the venue one of the most important all-weather tracks in Britain. Monday evening’s card blends promising young talent, experienced campaigners, and meaningful race sponsorships that highlight important causes within and beyond the sport.

With competitive racing expected across all six contests, Wolverhampton’s Monday fixture promises another entertaining night of all-weather action for racing followers and connections alike.

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

Southwell Racecourse will stage a seven-race jump meeting on Monday, 11 May, featuring steeple chases, hurdle races, novice contests and National Hunt Flat races. The card includes experienced runners alongside developing horses across a range of distances and classes.

The meeting begins at 2:42 PM with The Dog Friendly Raceday Tues 2nd June Handicap Steeple Chase, a Class 5 contest over three miles and 107 yards. Open to horses aged five years and above rated between 0 and 100, the race carries prize money of £6,150 and forms part of the ARC Summer Chase Series Qualifier. The staying contest is expected to place emphasis on stamina and jumping accuracy around Southwell’s course.

At 3:12 PM, runners line up for the Book The Bistro At Southwell Racecourse Novices’ Handicap Steeple Chase, a Class 4 event over two miles, four furlongs and 126 yards. The race offers £7,700 and features novice chasers competing in handicap company. Several improving horses are expected to take part in the mid-distance contest.

The programme continues at 3:42 PM with Division I of the Summer Fun & Makers Market Raceday 27th July Mares’ Open Maiden National Hunt Flat Race. The bumper race over one mile, seven furlongs and 210 yards is restricted to four and five-year-old mares and offers £4,500 in prize money. The event provides young mares with racecourse experience at the early stage of their careers.

Division II of the same mares’ maiden National Hunt Flat race follows at 4:12 PM under identical conditions. The second division is also expected to feature lightly raced and unraced mares beginning their National Hunt campaigns.

At 4:42 PM, the card returns to hurdling action with the Proudly Supporting Mental Health Awareness Week Novices’ Handicap Hurdle Race. The Class 5 event over one mile, seven furlongs and 210 yards offers £6,150 and is open to horses rated between 0 and 100.

The feature race of the evening comes at 5:17 PM with the Conferences And Events At Southwell Racecourse Maiden Hurdle Race, the highest prize race on the card with a purse of £10,000. The Class 4 contest over one mile, seven furlongs and 210 yards is part of the ARC Summer Novices’ Brush Hurdle Series Qualifier.

Among the runners is King S, trained by Olly Murphy for the Paddy Brennan Racing Syndicate. The five-year-old gelding has previous experience on both the flat and over hurdles. Dan Skelton is represented by French-bred gelding Louis Veron, partnered by Harry Skelton, while Charlie Fellowes sends Sense of Reason, a runner who has already recorded several consistent performances.

Fergal O’Brien-trained White Riot adds further experience to the field, while Warren Greatrex introduces four-year-old Fervent. Barry Brennan saddles Provision, and Richard Phillips is represented by mare Willow Edge. The race includes a mixture of experienced runners and developing hurdlers from several established yards.

The meeting concludes at 5:47 PM with the Family Fun Day Monday 31st August Handicap Hurdle Race, a Class 4 event over two miles, four furlongs and 126 yards. Horses rated up to 110 will compete for £7,700 in the closing contest of the evening.

Southwell’s Monday fixture combines handicap races, novice contests and maiden events, offering a varied programme for followers of summer jump racing.

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

The Sunday afternoon meeting at Ludlow Racecourse delivered an entertaining card filled with strong jumping performances, determined finishes and impressive displays from both experienced campaigners and emerging talents. Across six races, racegoers witnessed exciting contests over hurdles and fences, with several runners producing standout efforts under clear spring conditions.

The opening race at 2:17 PM, The Radnor Hills Water Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle Race over 1m 7f 169y, saw Silvereen produce a polished display to secure victory under jockey Sam Twiston-Davies. The mare travelled confidently throughout the contest and showed excellent rhythm at her hurdles before asserting her authority in the closing stages. Silvereen’s smooth jumping and strong finishing effort proved decisive as she pulled clear approaching the final flight.

The victory continued another successful spell for the Twiston-Davies team, whose runners have been performing consistently throughout the spring jumping campaign. Silvereen looked composed from the outset and handled the Ludlow circuit particularly well, suggesting there could be further progression to come in novice company.

At 2:52 PM, The Lion Leintwardine Novices’ Limited Handicap Hurdle Race over nearly three miles provided a true stamina test. Son of Tyran rose to the challenge superbly under Harry Skelton, staying on strongly in the final stages to claim victory. The race developed into a searching contest down the back straight, but Son of Tyran remained well positioned before producing a sustained effort after the final hurdle.

The gelding showed determination throughout the closing stages and appeared to relish the longer trip. Harry Skelton delivered a patient ride, allowing the horse to settle before asking for maximum effort turning for home. The partnership worked perfectly, with Son of Tyran responding gamely to secure a well-earned success.

The feature chase at 3:27 PM, The Radnor Hills Splash Handicap Steeple Chase over 2m 7f 171y, produced one of the most impressive performances of the afternoon as Zacony Rebel claimed victory under Charlie Price. The Irish-bred runner jumped fluently throughout and travelled powerfully into contention before quickening clear after the final fence.

Zacony Rebel demonstrated both stamina and jumping accuracy in a performance that delighted connections. Charlie Price judged the pace effectively and ensured his mount remained in a comfortable rhythm throughout the contest. Once the pair moved to the front, they quickly established control and maintained the advantage all the way to the line.

The race featured several experienced staying chasers, making the success particularly noteworthy. Zacony Rebel’s confident fencing and strong finishing effort marked him out as one of the day’s standout performers at Ludlow.

The 4:02 PM contest, The Welsh Guards Association Handicap Hurdle Race over 1m 7f 169y, saw French-bred Pergamon produce a determined display to land the prize under jockey William Shanahan. The race developed into a closely fought battle in the straight, but Pergamon showed resilience and class to edge ahead in the closing stages.

Shanahan kept his mount prominent throughout and timed the challenge effectively approaching the final hurdle. Pergamon responded gamely under pressure and found enough in the closing strides to secure victory. The success highlighted the gelding’s consistency and ability to compete strongly in competitive handicap company.

The mares took centre stage once again at 4:37 PM in The GC Rickards Mares’ Handicap Steeple Chase over 2m 4f 11y. Regal Renaissance delivered a polished round of jumping before powering home to victory under Sam Twiston-Davies, giving the rider a second winner of the afternoon.

Regal Renaissance travelled strongly throughout the chase and looked comfortable over her fences from an early stage. Turning for home, she moved smoothly into contention before asserting her superiority after the final obstacle. Her assured jumping and strong finish proved too much for her rivals, capping another memorable performance for the Twiston-Davies partnership.

The mare displayed admirable composure and determination, qualities that helped her gain control in the latter stages of the race. Connections will undoubtedly be encouraged by the professionalism she showed throughout the contest.

The final race of the afternoon at 5:10 PM, The Heartsease Farm Handicap Hurdle Race over 2m 5f 55y, concluded the card in exciting fashion as Jafimgoso stormed to victory under another accomplished ride from Harry Skelton. The gelding travelled strongly during the middle stages before producing a decisive burst approaching the final hurdle.

Harry Skelton enjoyed an excellent afternoon at Ludlow and once again demonstrated his tactical awareness aboard Jafimgoso. The rider waited patiently before asking his mount for maximum effort in the straight, and the response was immediate. Jafimgoso stayed on strongly to pull clear near the finish and end the meeting on a high note.

The Ludlow meeting offered competitive racing throughout the afternoon, with several horses producing performances that could lead to further success later in the season. Silvereen, Zacony Rebel and Regal Renaissance were among the standout names on the card, while riders Sam Twiston-Davies and Harry Skelton both enjoyed multiple victories.

The combination of quality jumping, strong staying performances and exciting finishes ensured an enjoyable afternoon for racing enthusiasts at Ludlow. With several impressive winners emerging from the card, the meeting once again demonstrated the strength and depth of the National Hunt scene during the spring season.

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

Trainer Patrick Biancone will return to familiar territory at Gulfstream Park on Saturday with another daughter of Leinster carrying high expectations into the $125,000 Royal Palm Juvenile.

Biancone enjoyed success in the corresponding fillies’ division last season when Lennilu captured the Royal Palm Juvenile Fillies before later placing third in the Queen Mary Stakes at Ascot Racecourse during the prestigious Royal Ascot meeting. This time, the experienced conditioner will saddle Dee Sweepers’ Celtic Dispute in the five-furlong turf contest, which forms part of Saturday’s 10-race programme.

The Royal Palm Juvenile and Royal Palm Juvenile Fillies both offer more than prize money. Winners receive automatic entry into one of six races at Royal Ascot, alongside a $25,000 travel allowance, adding international significance to the Gulfstream feature.

Celtic Dispute enters the Royal Palm Juvenile after finishing second on debut in a 4 ½-furlong maiden special weight on Gulfstream’s main track April 16. Biancone indicated the dirt outing was intended as a preparation run before a move to turf.

“She was a little green on the inside,” Biancone said. “She’s a turf horse, but we gave her a race to prepare.”

Breaking from the rail that afternoon, Celtic Dispute dueled early with Boots before weakening late to finish 3 ½ lengths behind. Boots is expected to reappear in the Royal Palm Juvenile Fillies on Saturday.

With Dew Sweepers also represented in the fillies’ division by Pot’s Right, trained by Phillip Antonacci, Biancone opted to keep Celtic Dispute against the colts. Pot’s Right has attracted attention following an impressive debut victory at Keeneland and was installed as the morning-line favourite for the fillies’ event.

Celtic Dispute has been rated the 3-1 second choice behind 8-5 favourite Skara Brae for the Royal Palm Juvenile at Gulfstream Park. Top jockey Luis Saez takes the mount, having also partnered Lennilu to victory in last year’s renewal. Saez notably rode Leinster to his final career victory in the 2021 Gulfstream Park Turf Sprint (G3), adding another layer of connection to Saturday’s assignment.

Elsewhere on the weekend card, attention will also turn to Friday’s Rainbow 6 sequence, where the jackpot pool is projected to reach $50,000 when racing resumes at Gulfstream Park.

The multi-race wager spans Races 4-9 and includes several promising runners. Ocala Gala, now under the care of Hall of Fame trainer Mark Casse, heads into Race 5 following a dominant victory over Gulfstream’s Tapeta surface. Previously trained by Cherie DeVaux, the daughter of Code of Honor impressed with a front-running performance against state-bred rivals.

Another daughter of Leinster, Sweetster, will also feature prominently in the same race. Trained by George Weaver, the filly makes her turf debut after showing promise in two starts over the Tapeta track, including a winning debut.

Later on the programme, Souper Debonair seeks a breakthrough victory in Race 9, a 1 1/16-mile maiden special weight for Florida-bred fillies and mares on turf. The daughter of Nyquist, also trained by Casse, has produced three consecutive runner-up finishes and again shapes as a leading contender.

Saturday’s Royal Palm Juvenile at Gulfstream Park is expected to draw considerable interest as connections pursue not only black-type success, but also a pathway toward Royal Ascot in June.

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

Hall of Fame trainer Steve Asmussen believes the 151st running of the Preakness Stakes presents a genuine opportunity for Chip Honcho, who is set to reunite with jockey Jose Ortiz at Laurel Park on May 16 following the Kentucky Derby success of Golden Tempo.

With Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo bypassing the second leg of the Triple Crown in favour of a June target in the Belmont Stakes, attention has quickly shifted toward a competitive and open-looking Preakness field. Among those drawing significant interest is Chip Honcho, whose earlier clashes with the Derby hero have offered encouragement to his connections despite inconsistent race-day performances.

Ortiz knows the colt well, having partnered him to his maiden victory at Churchill Downs last autumn for Asmussen. The rider also spent the winter riding extensively for the stable at Fair Grounds, where Chip Honcho crossed paths with Golden Tempo in several important Derby preps.

Chip Honcho closed his juvenile season with victory in the Gun Runner Stakes before finishing fourth in the Lecomte Stakes, second in the Risen Star Stakes and fifth in the Louisiana Derby, all races involving Golden Tempo.

Asmussen said the familiarity between horse and rider played a major role in bringing Ortiz back aboard for the Preakness assignment.

“He broke his maiden. He’s familiar with the horse,” Asmussen said. “Just through consistently working with Jose over the winter, you’re always discussing races and racehorses. It was his belief in Golden Tempo that proved true.”

Ortiz has become a trusted rider for the stable in recent seasons, including aboard stable star Magnitude, winner of the Dubai World Cup earlier this spring.

Still, Asmussen dismissed suggestions that previous form lines with the Kentucky Derby winner automatically translate into success at Laurel Park.

“It doesn’t do anything for your next race,” he said. “You have to be ready on the day.”

The trainer indicated that Chip Honcho’s temperament and comfort in a race environment had shaped the decision to wait for the Preakness rather than pursue the Derby trail more aggressively. This year’s race is being staged at Laurel Park while reconstruction work continues at Pimlico Race Course.

“It’s all about the afternoon,” Asmussen explained. “He handles extremely well in the morning, and he hasn’t handled exactly like we want some afternoons. When he handles the race environment and things go right, that’s what we want to get back to.”

Asmussen also described the 2026 Kentucky Derby as “the Curlin Derby,” highlighting the influence of champion sire Curlin throughout the Classic generation. Chip Honcho himself is by Connect, a son of Curlin who defeated Gun Runner in the Pennsylvania Derby during his racing career.

The 2026 Preakness Stakes field continues to take shape with several other notable contenders progressing toward Laurel Park.

Express Kid, trained by Justin Evans, recorded a sharp five-furlong workout at Lone Star Park as preparations intensified for the Classic assignment. The colt, purchased for $800,000 earlier this year following his Springboard Mile success, has not raced since finishing narrowly beaten in the Sunland Derby.

Evans reported satisfaction with the colt’s latest move after earlier setbacks interrupted his campaign.

“We’ve got to be on our ‘A’ game for a race like the Preakness,” Evans said. “He’s fresh, he’s doing good, and he seems like he’s going in the right direction.”

Another likely starter is Bull by the Horns, trained by Saffie Joseph Jr.. The colt enhanced his reputation with a dramatic late-running success in the Rushaway Stakes and could now skip the Peter Pan Stakes in favour of the Preakness.

Joseph believes the colt’s strong finishing style and improving form make him a compelling contender over the extended distance.

“Visually it was very important and the productivity of the race is even more important than numbers,” Joseph said.

Ocelli, one of the major talking points following the Kentucky Derby, is also expected to line up after finishing a fast-closing third at odds of more than 70-1. Jockey Tyler Gaffalione is set to retain the mount for trainer Whit Beckman.

The colt’s remarkable rise has attracted widespread attention after being purchased for only $12,000 at the Fasig-Tipton Kentucky October Yearling Sale. Legion Bloodstock partner Kyle Zorn said the ownership group focused on athleticism rather than fashion when selecting the colt.

“We look for athletes,” Zorn said. “He just had all the physical characteristics that we look for.”

Meanwhile, trainer John Ennis is still assessing whether Great White will take his place in the 2026 Preakness Stakes after the gelding was scratched from the Kentucky Derby following an incident behind the starting gate.

Ennis plans to personally supervise the horse’s final preparation before committing to the race.

“He has to be feeling good to go to the Preakness,” the trainer said.

With Golden Tempo absent and several improving three-year-olds converging on Laurel Park, the 2026 Preakness Stakes is shaping into one of the most intriguing renewals of recent years.

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

A strong juvenile spotlight will fall on Gulfstream Park on Saturday, where the $125,000 Royal Palm Juvenile and $125,000 Royal Palm Juvenile Fillies headline a competitive 10-race programme featuring emerging two-year-old talent and an expected six-figure carryover pool.

The afternoon has drawn added attention because the winners of both five-furlong turf stakes will secure automatic entry into races during the prestigious Royal Ascot meeting in June, alongside a $25,000 equine travel stipend.

Saturday’s featured sequence spans Races 5 through 10, with the Royal Palm Juvenile scheduled as Race 6 and the Royal Palm Juvenile Fillies carded as Race 8. The pair of turf contests have attracted several highly regarded youngsters from leading North American stables.

Trainer Wesley Ward is expected to hold a particularly strong hand in the Royal Palm Juvenile through Skara Brae, the 8-5 morning-line favourite. The daughter of Golden Pal created a striking impression when winning an open maiden special weight at Keeneland by 4½ lengths on debut and now steps up against male opposition with considerable expectations surrounding her.

In the Royal Palm Juvenile Fillies, trainer Phillip Antonacci relies on Pot’s Right, who heads the market after overcoming a difficult beginning to score impressively first time out at Keeneland. The daughter of Bold d’Oro is among several promising fillies entered for the contest.

Boots also adds intrigue to the line-up after a dominant debut success at Gulfstream before being transferred to trainer Carlos David. Saturday will mark her first turf appearance.

Hall of Fame conditioner Mark Casse introduces two newcomers with notable pedigrees. Pros and Cons is a daughter of Triple Crown winner Justify, while Sass Sass is by War of Will, the 2019 Preakness Stakes winner previously trained by Casse.

The closing leg of the late sequence, a 7½-furlong maiden special weight on turf for three-year-old fillies, has also assembled a deep field featuring runners from the barns of Casse, Todd Pletcher, Brad Cox, Patrick Biancone, Jose D’Angelo and Saffie Joseph Jr..

Among the newcomers attracting attention is Restock, a Japanese-bred filly owned by Mike Repole and trained by D’Angelo.

Away from Saturday’s feature races, Blue Rose Farm LLC’s Moonstrocity provided a notable performance on Friday, breaking his maiden over a mile on the main track in 1:37.99. Trained by Jena Antonucci, the son of Tiz the Law had previously contested the Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland after earlier runs at Gulfstream.

The Royal Palm races are expected to serve as an important early-season indicator for juveniles with ambitions of competing on an international stage later this summer, adding further significance to Saturday’s Gulfstream Park programme.

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

Churchill Downs provided the backdrop for another important morning in the build-up to the 151st Preakness Stakes, with Silent Tactic, Corona de Oro and Robusta all taking significant steps toward next week’s Classic at Laurel Park.

Hall of Fame trainer Mark Casse was cautiously optimistic after Arkansas Derby runner-up Silent Tactic returned to stronger exercise following the foot bruise that ruled him out of the Kentucky Derby only days before the race.

The colt went to the track shortly after dawn at Churchill Downs and covered a half-mile in 48.XX seconds under exercise rider Jose Belarmino Vasquez. More important than the clock, however, was the manner in which the colt travelled through the exercise and galloped out afterward.

Casse, speaking from his Ocala base, said the work gave him the encouragement he needed ahead of a possible run in the Middle Jewel of the Triple Crown at Laurel Park on May 16.

“He worked very well. I was happy,” Casse said. “He had good energy galloping out, and that’s what I wanted to see. Now we just have to see how he comes out of it because that foot has been the concern.”

The veteran trainer stopped short of confirming the colt for the race, preferring to monitor the horse over the next 24 hours before making a final commitment.

Silent Tactic had built one of the most consistent campaigns on the Kentucky Derby trail this season. The colt competed in all four Oaklawn Park qualifying races, winning the Southwest Stakes before finishing runner-up efforts in the Smarty Jones, Rebel Stakes and Arkansas Derby.

Casse admitted the Kentucky Derby pace scenario may ultimately have suited his colt had he made the starting gate, especially after Arkansas Derby winner Renegade went close in Louisville behind Golden Tempo.

Still, the trainer appeared philosophical about missing the Derby.

“Friday he was perfect, Saturday he was perfect,” Casse said. “But you have to do what’s right for the horse.”

While Silent Tactic continues toward a likely Preakness appearance, trainer Dallas Stewart was equally upbeat after Corona de Oro produced a sharp move over the Churchill Downs surface later in the morning.

The colt worked five furlongs in 59.80 seconds under Pedro Velez, producing one of the quicker moves at the distance during Friday’s session.

Stewart described the breeze as “excellent” and said the colt appears ready should he secure a place in the 14-horse field when entries close.

Corona de Oro has rapidly climbed through the ranks in recent weeks. After breaking his maiden in front-running fashion, the son of Bolt d’Oro followed with a strong third-place finish in the Lexington Stakes at Keeneland.

The colt narrowly missed the Kentucky Derby field despite sitting on the also-eligible list, but recent developments have moved him closer to securing a Preakness berth.

Stewart believes the horse deserves the opportunity.

“I’ve loved him since I bought him,” the trainer said. “He’s continued to improve.”

If Corona de Oro lines up at Laurel Park, Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez is expected to take the ride. Velazquez captured his first Preakness victory only three years ago aboard National Treasure.

Elsewhere on the Preakness trail, trainer Doug O’Neill remains hopeful Robusta can rebound from a troubled Kentucky Derby effort.

The Calumet Farm runner endured bumping leaving the gate at Churchill Downs before racing wide throughout and finishing 14th. O’Neill believes the colt emerged from the race in better condition than the result might suggest.

“He came out of the race in great shape,” O’Neill said. “He’s got speed, stamina and class. If things go his way, he can be a factor.”

Robusta has since resumed training at Keeneland and is scheduled to ship to Laurel Park on Tuesday ahead of the Preakness Stakes 2026 running.

O’Neill, who won the Preakness with I’ll Have Another in 2012, said the race continues to hold special significance despite this year’s temporary move to Laurel Park.

“It’s such an historic race,” he said. “We’re optimistic and excited to take another shot at it.”

The developing Preakness field continues to gather momentum following the Kentucky Derby, with several fresh contenders now hoping to capitalise on their opportunity in Baltimore next week.

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

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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

...

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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Buzz Brief

Celtic Dispute and Liberty Rings secured automatic entries to Royal Ascot with impressive juvenile turf victories in the Royal Palm
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Promising juveniles headline Saturday’s Gulfstream Park card as the Royal Palm stakes offer a pathway to Royal Ascot and attract
Silent Tactic, Corona de Oro and Robusta each strengthened their claims for the 151st Preakness Stakes after encouraging workouts at
A 43-strong Godolphin broodmare draft and Group 1 winner Affaire A Suivre feature prominently in the Inglis Digital May (Early)
Bangalore race result 10 May saw PRINCE OF WALES score an impressive victory in The Razeen Plate DIV I at
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