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The Spanish capital bore witness to a major turning point in the show jumping season as Ioli Mytilineou delivered a breathtaking ride to clinch her first 5* Grand Prix title at the 2025 Longines Global Champions Tour in Madrid. With precision and pace, she and her remarkable mount, L’Artiste de Toxandra, soared to victory in a fiercely contested jump-off, outshining a field packed with experienced competitors.

The victory didn’t come easy. Mytilineou faced a formidable challenge from Germany’s Marco Kutscher and his ever-reliable partner, Aventador S, who settled for second place despite a near-perfect round. Their effort, however, was not enough to match the intensity and speed Mytilineou brought under Madrid’s glowing skies. Rounding out the top three was Hans-Dieter Dreher, whose clean and methodical ride on Elysium once again highlighted the gelding’s consistent form this season.

At the iconic Club de Campo Villa de Madrid, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. The jump-off, designed to test technical ability and nerve, turned the spotlight on elite riders and their steeds. The course, crafted by Santiago Varela Ullastres, proved especially testing, with only seven riders advancing past the initial round unscathed.

Each competitor brought their own strategy to the final challenge. Early favorite Kent Farrington set a blazing pace but paid the price with two rails down. Ireland’s Cian O’Connor and Belgium’s Pieter Devos put in strong efforts, but neither could rival the explosive blend of speed and control demonstrated by Mytilineou.

With one of the cleanest and fastest performances of her career, Mytilineou’s triumph marked a moment of redemption after narrowly missing out on past LGCT podiums. Her emotional response in the aftermath underscored what the win meant, especially after previously coming so close in A Coruña. As she now turns her sights on Prague and the LGCT Super Grand Prix, her victory in Madrid becomes a defining milestone in her journey.

The jump-off drama was amplified by the unpredictability that unfolded. Defending champion Christian Kukuk suffered a fall that ended his title defense prematurely, while several top names, including Jérôme Guery and Simon Delestre, were caught off guard by the track’s complexity earlier in the round. The course, while fair, exposed even the smallest missteps, eliminating many of the sport’s biggest names.

As the fourth leg of the 2025 season wrapped up, the Championship leaderboard saw a shakeup. Belgium’s Gilles Thomas emerged as the new frontrunner, thanks to his steady collection of points across previous stages. Meanwhile, Edwina Tops-Alexander slipped to second, and Ireland’s Denis Lynch remained close behind in third, all setting the stage for more unpredictability in the races to come.

With the tour next heading to the French Riviera for the Cannes leg, the momentum from Madrid is sure to carry forward. For Ioli Mytilineou, however, the focus is clear: building on her success and making the most of the golden opportunity that lies ahead in Prague.

Nottingham Racecourse is gearing up for an exciting afternoon of flat racing on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. The picturesque venue will host six scheduled races, with gates opening at 13:02. The race day promises to be a treat for racing fans, offering a mix of grassroots qualifiers, handicaps, maiden stakes, and novice contests across various distances and classes.

The afternoon will begin with the Jockey Club Grassroots Stayers Series Qualifier at 14:32. This opening event, titled The Every Race Live On Racing TV Handicap Stakes, is a Class 4 contest run over a stamina-testing distance of 2 miles and 24 yards. It sets the stage for an engaging day of racing and allows early arriving racegoers to enjoy a top-class staying contest from the outset.

Following this is a Class 6 sprint at 15:02—the £9 Racedays At Nottingham Racecourse Handicap Stakes. Run over a sharp 5 furlongs and 8 yards, this race not only delivers high-speed action but also highlights the specially priced ticket offer of just £9 for the day. This initiative ensures that racing enthusiasts can enjoy Nottingham Racecourse’s fantastic facilities without stretching their budgets, making it an ideal outing for both families and seasoned racegoers.

The third event on the card, The Harkila Trust Your Instinct Maiden Stakes, is scheduled for 15:32. This race, covering a distance of 1 mile and 93 yards, offers a competitive field of horses yet to break their maiden. It provides a prime opportunity for emerging talent to shine and progress to higher levels of competition. Maiden races like this often mark the beginning of a future star’s journey, making it a must-watch event.

At 16:02, attention turns to the fillies with another Jockey Club Grassroots Series Qualifier, this time focused on middle-distance runners. The Dine In Sherwoods Restaurant Fillies’ Handicap Stakes, a Class 4 race run over 1 mile, 2 furlongs, and 68 yards, offers female runners a chance to compete in a well-matched contest. The race is expected to be closely contested and is sure to captivate spectators with its strategic depth and quality field.

The fifth race of the afternoon, set for 16:32, is The Family Fun Raceday Sunday June 1st Novice Stakes. A Class 5 event also contested over 1 mile, 2 furlongs, and 68 yards, this race serves as a warm invitation to families ahead of the upcoming family-themed raceday in June. With novice horses in the spotlight, this event adds to the developmental narrative of the meeting, giving horses the platform to learn and improve under race conditions.

Concluding the day’s proceedings is The Watch On Racing TV Handicap Stakes at 17:05. This Class 5 race, covering 1 mile and 93 yards, is likely to feature competitive handicappers looking to end the day on a high note. It’s a fitting finale to a day of racing that will blend emerging talent, experienced runners, and grassroots excitement.

More than just a sequence of races, this fixture offers a vibrant social atmosphere. Racegoers will enjoy the thrill of the gallop, cheer on their favourite horses and jockeys, and gather to discuss standout performances. Trainers and jockeys will showcase their expertise as they guide their horses across Nottingham’s turf, all in pursuit of victory.

The afternoon at Nottingham Racecourse on May 20, 2025, is set to deliver unforgettable racing action, unbeatable value, and an electric atmosphere. Whether you’re a devoted follower of the sport or looking for an enjoyable day out, this event promises something for everyone. See you at the races!

With the memory of his dramatic Preakness Stakes win still fresh, Journalism may soon return to the spotlight with a potential rematch against Kentucky Derby champion Sovereignty in the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga. The $2 million contest, scheduled for June 7, is the centerpiece of a five-day festival packed with high-stakes races and top-tier talent.

Trained by Michael McCarthy and owned by a powerful partnership including Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners and Bridlewood Farm, Journalism displayed immense grit in Baltimore. Despite a narrow escape from a traffic-heavy quarter-pole, the colt recovered rapidly and delivered a thrilling finish that left racegoers breathless. With unwavering determination, he surged past both Sandman and Gosger, covering the 1 3/16-mile distance in just under 1:56 and earning a strong Beyer Speed Figure of 98.

Meanwhile, Sovereignty, who skipped the Preakness to rest, quietly clocked a maintenance breeze at Saratoga, prepping for the Belmont in a more conservative manner. Their first encounter in the Kentucky Derby saw Journalism finish a brave second, suggesting unfinished business between these two outstanding three-year-olds.

Trainer Brendan Walsh remains undecided on Gosger’s Belmont participation, though he acknowledged the colt’s progress and grit in the Preakness. Sandman, who finished third in Baltimore, has already shifted focus to the Grade 2 Jim Dandy in late July, aiming for redemption on familiar ground.

Journalism is now being readied for a potential Belmont return, with the final decision resting on how well he recovers. Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners’ Aron Wellman emphasized that while the rivalry with Sovereignty is appealing, the ultimate call will be based on the colt’s condition and trainer McCarthy’s input. The connections remain conscious of the demanding three-week turnaround between the Preakness and Belmont.

If Journalism lines up at Saratoga, he won’t just face Sovereignty again. A deep field is expected, possibly including the likes of Derby third-place finisher Baeza, Peter Pan Stakes winner Hill Road, and Wood Memorial victor Rodriguez. With construction ongoing at Belmont Park, this year’s race will be run at 1 1/4 miles, suiting versatile runners like Journalism.

Beyond the Belmont itself, the festival offers a diverse lineup of races. Candied, who recently triumphed in the Allaire DuPont, may return for the Ogden Phipps Stakes. Classic Q, another promising filly from the Eclipse camp, is being considered for either the Wonder Again Stakes or the Regret Stakes, depending on final decisions by trainer Mark Casse.

On the turf marathon front, Eclipse’s Corruption and The Ginger Wizard are both aiming for the Belmont Gold Cup. The latter, a sibling to last year’s winner The Grey Wizard, will attempt to continue the family legacy over two miles on grass. Warming, another Eclipse runner, could take her shot in the Soaring Softly after a promising but troubled return to racing.

As the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival approaches, anticipation builds not only for the headlining race but also for the broader spectacle of talent and competition. If Journalism does return to the Saratoga stage, it could set up one of the most captivating showdowns in recent memory—a test of heart, class, and redemption.

The trainers’ title race in Hong Kong became far more intriguing on Sunday as David Hayes significantly closed the gap on John Size with a trio of victories at Sha Tin. With just 16 meetings left in the season, Hayes now trails the 12-time champion by only six wins, adding fresh excitement to a contest many thought was already decided.

Hayes showcased his tactical edge and team strength with a trio of standout performances. Oriental Smoke delivered the first strike under the guidance of Zac Purton, asserting dominance in the Members’ Care@HKJC Handicap over 1800m. That momentum continued with Solid Shalaa, who surged from the back of the field to clinch the Members Cup Handicap in spectacular fashion on the dirt track. The treble was completed when World Hero dictated from the front and held off challengers in the Sha Tin Clubhouse Handicap under a commanding ride by Alexis Badel.

These wins elevated Hayes’ seasonal tally to 50, marking another major step toward what could be a third career Hong Kong title. While recognizing the uphill task ahead, Hayes remains cautiously optimistic, noting that consistent performances from his stable combined with a dip in Size’s form could make things very interesting.

Elsewhere on the card, trainer Caspar Fownes was rewarded for his long-standing patience when Dancing Classics made a winning debut in the Beijing Clubhouse Cup Handicap. The four-year-old had struggled with physical issues since arriving in 2023, but his ability finally came through as he powered home for a clear victory. Owned by Hong Kong celebrity Aaron Kwok, the gelding showcased a promising turn of foot, clocking an impressive sectional time over the final 200 meters.

Jockey Hugh Bowman praised the horse’s potential, recalling his early trials with optimism. After a stop-start preparation, the debut performance served as a testament to the stable’s persistence and the owner’s belief.

A milestone moment came for Italian jockey Andrea Atzeni, who notched his 100th career win in Hong Kong aboard debutante Blazing Wukong in the Hilltop In The Valley Handicap. Having ridden his first trio of Hong Kong winners a decade ago, Atzeni returned in recent seasons to firmly establish himself among the top ranks. The win was particularly special, shared with trainer Ricky Yiu and owner Jason Chan, a long-time supporter.

Earlier in the day, Britney Wong got off to a flying start with a riding double, linking up with Manfred Man for victories aboard Tsuen Wan Glory and Patch Of Watch. Wong’s consistent performances this season have been particularly fruitful in partnership with Man, accounting for a significant portion of her wins.

The action continued with a win for Fun N Fun Together for Frankie Lor and Zac Purton, while Francis Lui’s Moduleconstruction posted back-to-back victories under Lyle Hewitson. Chris So’s Winning Gold also returned to the winner’s circle, guided home by James Orman, who continues to build on a solid season tally.

As the 2024/25 season progresses, all eyes will now be on Happy Valley this Wednesday night, with more opportunities for movement in the jockeys’ and trainers’ standings. With momentum shifting and milestones being met, the stage is set for an electrifying final stretch in Hong Kong racing.

Reagan’s Wit delivered a performance full of purpose and precision at Pimlico Race Course, taking home his first stakes victory in the $100,000 James W. Murphy Stakes. Supplemented into the field following his graded-stakes debut, the chestnut colt stormed to a decisive 3¼-length win in the one-mile turf contest, part of the star-studded card supporting the 150th Preakness Stakes.

The colt, trained by Cherie DeVaux and piloted by Jose Ortiz, broke from the gate with focus but waited patiently behind the early pacesetters. Navigating traffic with poise, Ortiz angled Reagan’s Wit into a prime position on the turn. Once asked for his run, the colt responded with a powerful move between horses, gliding to the lead and confidently pulling away in the final furlong. Clocking in at 1:40.25 on a turf surface rated as good, Reagan’s Wit solidified his potential with his second career win from five starts.

Behind him, Soleil Volant managed to edge past Twain in the final strides to claim second place, while Barbadian Runner closed late to round out the superfecta. The remainder of the field included Curahee, Stormy Flight, and Studlydoright, while three contenders were scratched before post time.

For Ortiz and DeVaux, it was a fruitful afternoon. Ortiz had already captured a win aboard Zeitlos in the $125,000 Skipat Stakes, and DeVaux secured another earlier victory in the Chick Lang with Retribution, ridden by Ortiz’s brother, Irad Ortiz Jr.

Reagan’s Wit’s journey to this moment hasn’t been without challenges. A spirited and occasionally unruly character, he needed time to develop, especially after a training incident delayed his early career. His connection to the DeVaux-Ingordo family runs deep — he’s a half-brother to Reagan’s Edge, the first horse named in honor of David Ingordo’s daughter. That family sentiment makes Saturday’s victory all the more special.

According to Ortiz, Reagan’s Wit still shows signs of greenness, especially once he gains the lead. However, he handled the occasion like a seasoned professional. His team hopes that the experience gained from this performance will sharpen his focus in future assignments.

The James W. Murphy Stakes carries the name of a revered Maryland trainer who earned over 50 stakes wins and nearly 1,400 total victories throughout his career. Saturday’s renewal added another compelling chapter to the race’s legacy, with Reagan’s Wit emerging as a rising force on the grass.

They say timing is everything in horse racing, but even the best-laid calendars can’t outrun the clouds. After a three week drought in Indian racing, the action finally returned on May 17th at Bangalore Turf Club (BTC), where the Summer Meeting kicked off with energy, anticipation and an unmistakable buzz. Fans had been waiting since April 30th, when Delhi Race Club hosted the last race day in India, for the return of racing. But the joy of that long awaited Saturday proved short lived.

Day 2 of the Bangalore Summer Meeting, originally scheduled for May 18th, was called off due to heavy rain. BTC promptly shifted the races to May 20th, hoping the skies would cooperate. But the rain gods had other plans. As persistent showers returned, the entire May 20th card was eventually cancelled, delivering another blow to punters and racing enthusiasts alike.

As things stand, the Summer Meeting will now resume directly with Day 3 on May 24th, weather permitting. The only race to survive the downpour shuffle is the much-anticipated War Hammer Million, which was initially slated for May 18th (rescheduled to May 20th) and will now be contested on May 24.

The irony hasn’t been lost on fans. A three week wait ended with a one day reward, followed by postponement first and finally cancellation of the second day due to rains. Yet through it all, the racing fraternity has shown patience, and BTC is doing its best to keep the show running despite the skies refusing to cooperate.

For now, all eyes are on the weekend forecast. As umbrellas outnumber racing tips and clouds loom over the paddock, one can only hope the next battle between rain gods and race gods tilts in favour of the sport.

In a performance brimming with courage and flair, Germany’s Katrin Eckermann and her brilliant mare Chao Lee stole the spotlight in Madrid, capturing the coveted Copa S.M. El Rey trophy. The duo lit up the Longines Global Champions Tour arena at Club de Campo Villa de Madrid, leaving fans awestruck during a heart-stopping jump-off.

The historic event, now in its 49th edition, welcomed a host of elite riders and celebrated champions, all converging in the Spanish capital to test their mettle on one of the tour’s most picturesque grass arenas. As the sun blazed over the venue, anticipation buzzed from the stands where sport legends and fans alike soaked in the electrifying energy.

A total of 14 horse-and-rider combinations qualified for the jump-off, promising an intense battle for the title. Eckermann, second to enter, took a brave line to the final fence and clocked in at a blistering 38.51 seconds. Her precision and boldness paid off, as none of her rivals managed to match her time.

Belgium’s Gilles Thomas, aboard Luna van het Dennehof, came closest but was just shy, finishing in 39.37 seconds to secure the runner-up spot. Christian Ahlmann, known for his speed, piloted Mandato van de Neerheide into third with a solid time of 39.75 seconds.

Speaking after the victory, a visibly moved Eckermann praised her home-bred partner, Chao Lee, acknowledging the mare’s heart and talent. She reflected on their deep bond and how competing in a venue like Madrid—particularly in front of a roaring crowd—added an emotional layer to the triumph.

The day also carried a poignant moment for Spanish fans as Eduardo Álvarez Aznar and his beloved mount Rokfeller de Pleville Bois Margot made a final appearance ahead of the horse’s retirement. Although the round did not go as hoped, the audience gave them a hero’s send-off, honoring their legacy with heartfelt applause.

Several other top names made valiant efforts in the jump-off. Cian O’Connor rode a tidy clear aboard Gengis Kann de Londe but didn’t quite find the pace needed. Tom Wachman, Denis Lynch, and others delivered impressive rides but were hindered by faults that kept them out of the top ranks. Defending titleholder Lynch was among the surprises, with a rail at the penultimate fence ending his hopes for a repeat.

As the sun set over Madrid, Eckermann and Chao Lee emerged not just as winners, but as true stars of the sport—graceful, bold, and unforgettable. The crowd’s ovation confirmed it: this was a day destined for the highlight reel.

Now, all eyes turn to the Grand Prix of Madrid, promising yet another thrilling chapter in the 2025 Longines Global Champions Tour.

Ballinrobe Racecourse is gearing up for an exciting highlight in its calendar with the upcoming McHale Mayo National Handicap Chase set for Monday, May 26. This year’s renewal promises to be a captivating contest, attracting a strong field and a diverse group of trainers, all eyeing the €100,000 prize on offer.

Gordon Elliott, a dominant force in recent editions of this feature, is aiming to extend his winning streak to a third consecutive year. With six entries under his name, he’s leaving no stone unturned. Among them is the seasoned Tullybeg, who is no stranger to this event, and Western Fold, who recently impressed with a victory at Tipperary. Another of Elliott’s potential runners, Yeats Star, made a winning start over fences at Listowel and adds further intrigue to the trainer’s arsenal.

Willie Mullins, another heavyweight in the national hunt scene, has five contenders of his own. Spanish Harlem brings solid form from a recent fourth-place finish at Sandown, while Zenta could carry top-weight if declared. A Penny A Hundred also stands out, having a win at Ballinrobe under her belt and recent form that includes a fine effort at Cheltenham in April.

Henry de Bromhead, who trained the talented Theatre Native, has added Toss Again and Native Speaker to the mix. Gavin Cromwell is represented by Mint Boy and Noble Birth, while Colm Murphy’s Cadatharla comes into the race after a noteworthy success at Killarney. Other notable potential runners include Kiltealy Park for Paul Nolan, Sea Music for Emmet Mullins, and Lord Lariat, the Irish Grand National winner trained by Dermot McLoughlin.

With a total of 32 entries and participation from 19 different trainers, the race is shaping up to be a fiercely competitive affair. The event also holds special significance for the Ballinrobe community and will once again enjoy live coverage from TG4’s Rásaí Beo, which adds to the buzz surrounding the day.

Racecourse Manager John Flannelly expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming raceday, highlighting the strength of this year’s field and the importance of the occasion for both the track and its loyal supporters. All signs point to a thrilling edition of the McHale Mayo National, with both familiar faces and rising talents set to take centre stage.

The Carlisle Racecourse is set to kick off its 2025 flat season fixtures with an exciting afternoon of races on Monday, May 19th, 2025. Gates will open at 1:00 PM, setting the stage for an action-packed day of competitive racing.

The event will begin with the British Stallion Studs EBF Fillies’ Novice Stakes at 2:30 PM, covering a distance of 5 furlongs. This race will feature promising fillies aiming to mark their early dominance. The second race, the Racing TV Handicap, will be run at 3:00 PM over the same 5-furlong distance. As a Jockey Club Grassroots Sprint Series Qualifier, this contest is expected to deliver thrilling performances and close finishes.

Following this, the RacingTV.com Handicap, also a Sprint Series Qualifier, will take place at 3:30 PM over 5 furlongs and 182 yards, offering more sprinting excitement for fans.

The fourth race of the day, the Penrith Handicap, will be contested at 4:00 PM over a stamina-testing 1 mile and 6 furlongs. This long-distance event is sure to provide dramatic finishes and capture the audience’s attention.

At 4:30 PM, the spotlight shifts to future prospects with the Bell & Plate Day 25th June Novice Stakes, run over 6 furlongs and 195 yards. Racegoers can expect to witness emerging talent and perhaps the rise of a new champion.

At 5:00 PM, the sixth race – the Boots & Bridles Friday 30th May Fillies’ Handicap – will be run over 7 furlongs and 173 yards. As a Jockey Club Grassroots Miles Series Qualifier for fillies, this race adds a competitive edge to the card, with contenders striving to earn qualifying points.

The day concludes at 5:30 PM with the Flat Season Pass Available Now Handicap, another Grassroots Mile Series Qualifier over the same distance of 7 furlongs and 173 yards. The closing race promises a strong finish to a vibrant start of the flat season.

These seven flat races are sure to thrill racing enthusiasts, with fans rallying behind their favorite horses. Top jockeys and trainers will be present to battle for victory, creating unforgettable moments for owners, connections, and spectators alike. Carlisle Racecourse is ready to welcome the new flat season in style—don’t miss the action this May 19th!

Huntingdon Racecourse is all set to host the RSA Syndicate Meeting on May 20th, 2025. This evening fixture features six exciting races on the card, with gates opening at 4:40 PM. A key highlight of the event will be the Shetland Pony Grand National, scheduled for 5:15 PM. This beloved spectacle, especially among children and racing fans, will take place before the main fixtures begin and is expected to deliver unmatched excitement as young riders compete for glory.

The first competitive race begins at 6:10 PM with The Mares’ Handicap Hurdle, a Class 5 race run over approximately two miles (1m 7f 171yds). This contest will showcase the capabilities of the mares, all aiming to lead the pack to the finish line. At 6:40 PM, the Maiden Hurdle Race, a Class 4 event over the same distance, offers maiden horses the opportunity to claim their first victory and advance to higher-tier competitions. The winner will be honored in the winner’s ring, receiving the recognition they deserve.

At 7:10 PM, racegoers will be treated to the Handicap Steeple Chase, run over two miles and about four furlongs (2m 3f 189yds). This event will feature thrilling jumps as the horses navigate fences and ditches with agility and grace. Next up at 7:40 PM is The Handicap Hurdle, a Class 3 contest covering three miles and about one furlong (3m 1f 10yds), where competitors will be tested for both stamina and speed in a grueling challenge.

The excitement continues at 8:10 PM with another Handicap Hurdle Race, a Class 5 event stretching two miles and about three and a half furlongs (2m 3f 137yds). Finally, the day will conclude with The Novices’ Hunters’ Steeple Chase, a Class 5 race beginning at 8:40 PM. This concluding contest will span two miles and about seven and a half furlongs (2m 7f 129yds), providing a fitting end to an action-packed race card.

This evening of competitive jump racing promises a variety of thrilling performances from maiden and seasoned horses alike. From high-energy pony races to challenging hurdle and steeplechase contests, the RSA Syndicate Meeting will captivate spectators from start to finish. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the excitement — see you at the races!