Tuesday 23rd June
 


                                                                              Clanbrooke Newsletter - July 2009


As the tracks start to soften ahead of the Melbourne Racing Season and some of our ageing gallopers breathe a collective sigh of relief, Clanbrooke celebrated the birth of new careers as young legs found their feet on the softened ground, whilst others signalled that their racing days were numbered.

A host of Clanbrooke youngsters debuted during Autumn with mixed results. At her first outing in May, our 3YO Carnegie filly Influential Miss staked her claim as a genuine racehorse at Cranbourne, blocked for a run to finish an unlucky 4th. Improving on this, her next trip at Bendigo yielded a 2nd to Sheik Mohammed’s first-starter Madikeri (by Commands) by a bob of the head. Trainer Pat Carey is obviously pleased with her early form and hopes she can break her duck at her next start.

Our 3YO gelding Skystreamer (King’s Best x Seattle Baroness) was also a first starter for Clanbrooke and Tony Vasil in May. With four runs now under his belt, Skystreamer has already notched 2 placings, both in robust company. Looking for more ground next time in, Tony elected to turn him out for the winter and expects him to return a more mature racehorse in late Spring.

Bertrand, our 2YO Elvstroem-Miss Bud chestnut showstopper also made his long anticipated racetrack debut in May over an unsuitable 1100m. Two solid runs later, he will benefit from a spell in preparation for his classic season, in the hope of emulating his own sire’s success with a possible tilt at the Australian Guineas [G1] not out of the question.

Our 3YO Johannesburg filly Matumi, also trained by Tony Vasil, commenced her racing career in less than splendid fashion at Bendigo on 5th May. Perhaps better suited to the show ring thanks to her striking deep chestnut coat and lacklustre performance at Sale in late June where she finished well behind the rest of the field, Matumi will have to display a marked improvement with shades on next time to retain owners’ favour. She is a wait-and-see proposition for connections at present.

Recent winners for Clanbrooke include the ill-fated Odin Warrior, a winner at his second last start at Cranbourne, So Majestic (Singapore), now fattening up in the paddock in preparation for a Group level assault in the Spring, as well as the Russell Cameron-trained Galaxy Guide, winning at Kyneton on 23rd June over 1850m on heavy ground. Galaxy Guide is still looking for more distance according to jockey Dwayne Dunn and relished the heavy going. Hopefully the first win of many for this talented little filly.

It was with great sadness that owners were present to witness the tragic fatal accident of our promising Viking Ruler gelding Odin Warrior at Sandown on 3rd May. Rounding the home turn in familiar position, Odin looked to have the race in the bag. However, at the top of the straight onlookers saw him balk, and jockey Aaron Spiteri quickly pulled him out of the race in the knowledge that something was horribly wrong. The ensuing vet inspection confirmed the worst. Odin Warrior had snapped his leg. He was humanely euthanised immediately.

A late maturer, Odin Warrior debuted at the track in early 2008, already a 3YO. Breaking through for his maiden win in October 2008 at Pakenham over 1400m, Odin had already notched five placings prior to this and looked to be a horse on the move. Hitting his stride at distances over 2000m, Odin continued his success with two wins in 6 weeks, the first at Stoney Creek (2100m) in March and the second at Cranbourne (2025m) on 19th April. His last race was his first tilt at 2400m, a distance Brian Jenkins thought may become his pet distance.

Trainer Brian Jenkins, staff and owners were understandably inconsolable following the tragic accident and moving tributes have been published on the Clanbrooke home page for those who want to read further.

It was bittersweet to note only weeks later that G1 Qld Derby winner COURT RULER was also a Viking Ruler gelding, out of a Pompeii Court mare in Free Court (NZ). It gave us pause to reflect on what may have been…

Other recent retirements include our 2YO Half Hennessey Gelding Isle of Elba. Awarded the Clanbrooke Racing `most inauspicious debut’ award, Isle of Elba finished over 30 lengths behind the winner at his first start – and yet still managed to beat one home! He has since found new headquarters with Stoney Creek trainer Tabitha Cunningham. Often a woman’s touch serves to save a horse’s racing career and we certainly wish Tabitha luck. Shane Fliedner’s 4YO Delago Brom gelding Bromson bade farewell to the racetrack in May due to injury, whilst Vandelay is also on the move with owners electing to transfer him away from Caulfield to new trainer Darren Weir at Ballarat, acknowledging that perhaps the city is not the best hunting ground for this fellow. We wish connections the best of luck. We are also awaiting the arrival (in Victoria) of Scrubby Creek who was honourably discharged from racing duties when a large bone chip was detected in one of his knees following his uncharacteristic poor run at Morphetville. A lovely, gentle soul, Scrubby will agist in Clanbrooke’s paddocks until a good home is found.

Clanbrooke welcomed Aquanita trainer Heath Conners to the fold in recent months. Heath joined Aquanita’s team in January 2009, bringing a number of tried and ready to race horses with him. With a number of shares available – and no need to wait for the horses to mature – Clanbrooke has already introduced a number of people to the world of racehorse ownership – at a fraction of the regular ingoing fee.

Change is afoot down at Riverend Park this month with stable trainer Russell Cameron announcing in late May that he would take up residence at Flemington effective July 1. Local Cranbourne trainer Barry Barnes will supervise training at Riverend Park until a permanent appointment is made. Clanbrooke’s 3YO Carnegie filly Galaxy Guide, as well as 3YO Galileo gelding Great Player will remain at Riverend Park for now. We look forward to a continuing relationship with both Riverend Park and Russell Cameron moving forward. Stay tuned for new opportunities with both stables.

Whilst we have been hinting recently at a Clanbrooke owners event to take place in August, the recent shake-up of the Victorian racing calendar following the Racing Victoria Jumps review, has served to disrupt our plans and force us to reschedule our proposed event to later in the year. Please keep 6th December free for the `Clanbrooke-Aquanita Cranbourne Race Day’ which should be a terrific chance to meet fellow owners, your trainer, your horse (if racing on the day) and an opportunity to punt and be merry at the beginning of the Festive Season. We will be sending invitations to all owners in September. In the meantime, may the racing gods be on your side.


Clanbrooke Racing




Thursday 4th June

Clanbrooke - Aquanita present....
A 3 Horse Package with Yearlings by

SECRET SAVINGS, DANZERO and KELTRICE

   

Have you see the video? Click here

SECRET SAVINGS colt – By Doncaster H.[G1] winner, this is the 2d foal for winner and metro. placegetter RIYAH. 2d dam is a ½ sister to 3 US SW’s.

DANZERO filly – By DANEHILL sire and Golden Slipper winner from the family of TIERCE, winner of Sydney’s G1 grand slam (Slipper/Sires Produce/Champagne S.)

KELTRICE SV colt – By consistent producer of winners from RYOLA ROSE, ½ sister to 2 x SP’s. From the family of Sydney Cup [G1] winner DOUBLE CENTURY.

This three horse package is a terrific opportunity to join the winners circle with Aquanita Racing, recently celebrating their 2000th winner in ten years.

To be trained at Caulfield by Aquanita’s
TONY VASIL, HEATH CONNORS and ROBERT SMERDON (respectively)

10% shares at $13,500
Aquanita to invoice owners directly
10%, 5% ($6,750) and 2.5% ($3,725) shares available
Purchase entitles ownership in all three horses

To view the full advertisement, click here

Monday 1st June


Winners - and oh so close...


It had been a while between drinks for Clanbrooke. In fact, the past six weeks have been quite trying. The loss of Odin Warrior certainly hit everyone hard, and Scrubby Creek's career-ending injury right on the heels of this left the stable in shock. However, racing stops for no-one and the past weekend saw Clanbrooke return to the winners circle, and we also looked on with anticipation as one of our 3YO's forayed on to the track for the first time.

So Majestic, our Singapore stallion, just missed out on a G1 berth yesterday, settling instead for an Open 83 1400m at Kranjii, his home track. At only his 10th start, So Majestic's record is impressive at 2 wins and a further 5 placings (1 x 4th) prior to yesterday's race. With expectations high, So Majestic did not disappoint. Finding another gear in the straight, he motored home to run all over the field, taking his career prizemoney to S$176K. He will probably have one more run before Cliff gives him a well earned break.

Clanbrooke also had a first starter in Influential Miss yesterday when the 3YO Carnegie-Perilla Filly, trained by Pat Carey, made her long awaited debut at Cranbourne . Advice to owners was cautious - basically a `wait and see' given the 1200m trip combined with her staying pedigree. She started well, maintaining her position throughout the race, then finding something extra in the straight to hit the line with the horse that finished 3rd, coming 4th in the bob of the head. Certainly a promising start and fun times ahead for owners.

Last Thursday Skystreamer, our Tony Vasil-trained 3YO Fantastic Light-Meribel Gelding, fronted at Ballarat for his 3rd outing with much anticipation. His trackwork excellent, Tony expected him to be in the finish. However for the second time in his short career, Skystreamer was most unlucky, finishing 2nd by 0.2L. However, he certainly has his foot on the till and, once Tony selects his next outing, we are sure to be on the edge of our seats once again.

 

Monday 25th May


                                                         Open Morning's


On Sunday morning, almost 40 Clanbrooke Members took a drive on a warmer than usual May morning, for the Open Day at Pat Carey's stable in Mornington. Pat and Cheryl already had the sausages and bacon sizzling and owners were treated to an ensuing parade of their horses. We will have photos online shortly, and all reports are that the morning was a great success as well as an opportunity to get to know both Pat and also other Clanbrooke owners.
Bo current
A little later in the day, another group of owners assembled at the Aquanita stables at Caulfield for Heath Conner's Open Day. Again, a number of beautifully presented horses were paraded and photos can be viewed on the Clanbrooke Horses for Sale page.

In other news, it was a sombre mood at the office today when the vet report following Scrubby Creek's less than inspiring run on the weekend was received. X-rays show that he has a sizeable bone chip in his knee. As a rising 6YO, the prospect of a lengthy recovery process, combined with his ageing joints, prompted an immediate decision to retire the Saratoga Springs gelding immediately, and look for a good home for him.

Scrubby started his career as a 3YO under the tutelage of Mark Minervini at Morphetville, winning his first trial by 7L. He followed this up with a first start win at Victoria Park in December 2006. It was to be quite a frustrating time between drinks for owners, with 2 further trial wins and no less than 8 placings before Scrubby broke through for his second win at Morphetville in February 2008. When Mark Minervini handed in his trainers license for a brief period in 2008, Scrubby Creek was transferred to Dan Clarken's stable, also at Morphetville. Achieving back to back wins in September/October 2008, Scrubby continued to battle on right until his career ending injury last weekend. He is a beautifully natured boy who will, no doubt, be a welcome addition to any

Tuesday 19th May

Pat Carey Open Morning - Sunday, 24th May, 8:30am


Just a reminder that Pat Carey's Open Morning is to be held this coming Sunday at 8:30am, at Pat's stables in Mornington. If you have not already RSVP' d, please do so asap for catering purposes. Horses on parade on the day include Azzurro Moon, Beulah Belle (1 share available), Influential Miss,  Invincible Belle, Lucky Owners Colt, Temple Dancer, as well as our Yearling Beautiful Crown - Duchess Danehill Filly (see below). Arapaho Miss is still enjoying her well-earned break and will not be in attendance on Sunday.


BEAUTIFUL CROWN, by former Champion American juvenile and Breeders’ Cup winner CHIEF’s CROWN (by DANZIG), won 6 races in a career that was cut short due to injury. The year before he was retired to stud (1997), he was ranked the quickest sprinter over 1200m in the US.

At stud, BEAUTIFUL CROWN is the Sire of Caulfield Guineas winner [G1] IN TOP SWING, Stakes winners FLAMING (Ritchie S. [G3]), and CROWN PRINCESS (Thoroughbred Club S. [G3]), as well as exciting 2YO filly and winner of the G3 Maribyrnong Plate OUR JOAN OF ARC, herself a bargain filly purchased at the 2008 Sydney Classic Sale, amongst many others.

With an incredibly consistent 67.6% runners-winners ratio, BEAUTIFUL CROWN’s lifetime strike rate is higher than current leading Sire (by winners),ENCOSTA DE LAGO.

 This is the first foal for DUCHESS DANEHILL (by DANEHILL DANCER), the unraced dam of this filly. Second dam, unraced CURZON PLACE, is the dam of 2 winners at the track whilst third dam, KENSINGTON GARDENS, has a perfect record at stud with 6 winners from as many to race. Of the 6,BLACKFRIARS was a Victoria Derby [G1] winner, LARROCHA an Oaks winner (SA Oaks [G1]), MANTON a G2 (STC Tulloch S.) winner and a further two were Stakes winners.

BEAUTIFUL CROWN progeny feature almost daily on winners lists. Don’t miss the opportunity to race this striking filly at a terrific price with our G1winning trainer.

10% Shares - $2995 inclusive to 31.07.09 - approximately $300 per month thereafter
 

Interesting to note that FASTNET ROCK (Sire of Whitbred Lass) recorded his 7th individual Australian winner last weekend to catapult him into equal first place on the 1st Season Sires table - by individual winners, equal with NOT A SINGLE DOUBT - (Sire of our Yearling Filly to be trained by Mark Minervini), and SHAMARDAL. We currently have only one share remaining in our NASD Filly. Both Kevin Dagg and Dean Humphries inspected last week, reporting that the filly has developed into a stunning filly - and all involved have elected to retain shares.



Thursday 7th May




Ode to Odin





Poem by Kerrie Small

With the soul of a champion
A true heart of a friend
The peaceful relaxed stance you had
Until the very end

The noble way you carried
Your very noble head
The grace with which you moved
When ridden or when led

A champion in the making
A hero in your self
The future was so bright for you
Now it sits upon the shelf

Trophies of your hearty wins
Your photos on the wall
Memories of a noble horse
To see, for one and all

Such pleasure that you gave us
To watch you race and win
And even if you only placed
You never did give in

Now you’re snatched away from us
Taken oh so soon
Our happy laughs, our cheerful talk
Has taken sadder tunes

But though you were not with us long
Odin Warrior, near you’ll stay
We remember you, so bitter sweet
Each and every day

Now you run so freely
With your name so firmly set
Our hearts will remember always
The good, hard to forget.

Monday 4th May



Tragedy at Sandown


It is with much sadness that we must report the passing of our Viking Ruler staying gelding, Odin Warrior, following his race at Sandown yesterday. Rounding the home turn in familiar position, Odin looked to have the race in the bag. However, at the top of the straight viewers and onlookers saw him balk, and jockey Aaron Spiteri quickly pulled him out of the race in the knowledge that something was horribly wrong. Although Odin managed to walk himself off the track, the ensuing vet inspection confirmed the worst. Odin Warrior had snapped his leg in half. He was  humanely euthanised immediately.

Odin Warrior was bred by Echuca-based breeder Lorna Moore and it was his striking physique that caught everyone's eye as a young horse. A late maturer, Odin Warrior debuted at the track in early 2008, already a 3YO. Breaking through for his maiden win in October 2008 at Pakenham over 1400m, Odin had already notched five placings previously and looked to be a horse on the move. Hitting his stride at distances over 2000m, Odin continued his success with two wins in 6 weeks, the first at Stoney Creek (2100m) in March this year, the second at Cranbourne (2025m) on 19th April. Yesterday was his first tilt at 2400m, a distance trainer Brian Jenkins thought would become his pet distance.

Most owners were at the track when the injury occurred and the above photo of Odin Warrior was taken just prior to the race with Odin Warrior resplendent in his new blinkers. Trainer Brian Jenkins and staff were understandably inconsolable following the tragic accident.


In other news, Clanbrooke also had 3 first starters over the weekend. At Ballarat on Friday, Bertrand (Elvstroem - Miss Bud) made his much anticipated debut, although it was only ever going to be an education run as he was ready for a break and certainly looks to be a horse who will only improve with age - and distance. Settling last, Bertrand made a nice run around the bend and into the first half of the straight. Making up a little ground in the straight and gaining some valuable inside running experience along the way, he finished back in the field, ready for the paddock. Tony was pleased with the way he handled himself and we anticipate an exciting Spring campaign from this stunning chestnut colt.

On Saturday at Wodonga, debuting in the premier 2YO race - the Jack Maher Classic - was `Isle of Elba,' a recently named Half Hennessy gelding. It was not, unfortunately, an auspicious debut, the gelding proving most disagreeable for the jockey, finishing well behind the rest of the field. At this stage, Isle of Elba's future is not exactly certain. No doubt, Dean and Brian will discuss his prospects over the coming days.

On a much brighter note, Tony Vasil-trained Skystreamer (Fantastic Light - Meribel) debuted at Cranbourne yesterday. Not considered a big chance, based on both his trackwork to date and also the fact that on pedigree he is likely to require more distance, Skystreamer surprised owners when he turned in a terrific performance to finish 2nd (0.3L) to the Mick Prince-trained Redoute's 3YO filly Filuja. Skystreamer certainly proved himself a racehorse at only his first outing and it seems things can only get better from here.

Thanks also to Members who braved the brisk morning air to attend the Aquanita Open morning on Saturday. It was a terrific opportunity to meet fellow owners and, of course, inspect Partnership horses. Here are a few snaps from the morning....

                                                                       
                                                                 Trent and Dean          Aqua walker                           Skystreamer                   Skystreamer


Monday 27th April

Open Days and other plans...
 

Aquanita Racing Open Day: Clanbrooke Racing in conjunction with Aquanita Racing will be hosting an Open Morning at the Caulfield stables on Saturday 2nd May from 8am. Current owners will have a chance to inspect their horse and, of course, a BBQ breakfast will be served on-course. Horses available for inspection on the day include: Bertrand, Matumi and Skystreamer. Owners of Aquanita horses not currently stabled at Caulfield are also welcome to attend. Such owners will have the opportunity to inspect their horse in the not too distant future at another Open Morning - details to be advised. Please email the office if you have not already done so if you plan attending on Saturday, for catering purposes.

Pat Carey Open Morning: We will be holding an Open Morning at Pat Carey's stable in Mornington on Sunday 24th May from 8am. Current owners will have a chance to inspect their horse and, of course, a BBQ breakfast will be served. Horses available for inspection on the day include: Arapaho Miss, Azzurro Moon, the Beautiful Crown Yearling, Beulah Belle, Influential Miss, Invincible Belle, Lucky Owners and Temple Dancer. Owners of Pat Carey-trained horses not currently stabled at Mornington are also welcome to attend. Please email the office if you have not already done so if you plan attending on Saturday, for catering purposes.

Clanbrooke 2009 Owners Day: Although details are yet to be finalised, we are also advising Clanbrooke owners to keep Saturday 23rd August free. We will be releasing details in the coming week - and the event is on a much larger scale than anything we've hosted in years gone by.

Horses ready to race: We often have prospective clients contacting us, expressing their desire to get involved with a horse who is either racing or ready to race, hesitant to commit to the (often) 2 years it takes to groom a Yearling for the races. Whilst we do not often have such shares available for purchase, we have just added a new section to the Clanbrooke `Shares for Sale' page that lists such horses, currently available through Aquanita Racing, trained by Heath Conners at Caulfield. Of the 7 horses currently  listed, 2 are currently racing and the other 5 are in pre-training and not too far away from their racetrack debut. If you have always wanted to own a share in a racehorse - and are a little impatient - why not have a look at Heath's current offering's?


Wednesday 1st April

                                        Clanbrooke Newsletter - April 2009


Dean has been busy in recent months, attending sales in Karaka, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide, whilst also finding the time to inspect our Bianconi filly (shares still available) in Ascot, WA. Whilst the sales arena is certainly a transformed landscape this year, economic conditions have also enabled buyers including ourselves, to realise true value - value which is then passed on to owners.

Clanbrooke purchased four filles in total across the four sales. The first, a Postponed x Security filly, selected at the Karaka sale, is now almost fully subscribed. Her near-perfect conformation took Brian Jenkins’ eye at the sales and he is thrilled to be training her. The second, a Beautiful Crown x Duchess Danehill Filly, carrying our favourite bloodline on the dam side, will be trained by our Oaks winning trainer, Pat Carey. The third, a Good Journey x Country Class filly, selected by our Bloodstock Agent Kevin Dagg at the Melbourne Premier Sale, is going to a familiar stable with a new trainer for Clanbrooke in Robert Smerdon. Finally, the fourth, a Not a Single Doubt filly, is by the hot 1st season sire who celebrated his 6th winner and 4th individual winner last weekend, securing his position in the top 10 on the First Season Sires table. This filly will be trained by Mark Minervini in Morphetville.

None of the above shares surpass $5K and all, on paper, look to have residual broodmare value. We are also, for the first time in a long while, offering 5% shares (no guarantee of name in book) on all of our recent purchases. In this way, you can own a share of a racehorse for as little as $1650!

Back at the track, we have had a plethora of runners recently. Whilst too many to mention individually, we must make special mention of a horse who was bred by Clanbrooke in conjunction with Jodie Bohr. The horse is Apparel Prince, and he recently celebrated a hat-trick, a terrific achievement for a horse who struggled to make it to the races. Congratulations to trainer Jodie Bohr. Apparel Prince has certainly bolstered our win tally for the year which currently stands at 18. We are looking to improve on last year’s tally of 24 and now, two thirds of the way through the year, we look to be on track.

As always, we have had retirements throughout the last quarter. Gold n Silk, the striking Johannesburg filly who showed great promise winning her maiden on 1st November, was subsequently found to be suffering from a degenerative joint condition. Retirement from racing was deemed essential and immediate and she has been returned to her owner to embark on her new broodmare career. It was also an inauspicious beginning – and ending - for our Untouchable filly, Grand Ness. Although owners had well founded faith in the pedigree of the filly, this did not translate to the racetrack. Finishing well back in her three outings, we are now seeking a good home for her. If anyone is interested, please contact the office.

Although not a retirement, another stable horse has suffered a loss of his own of late. Doubly Sure, our placid SP O’Reilly 5YO was recently gelded following a spate of less than exemplary performances at the track, as well as some cheeky behavior behind the scenes. He will be back in Tony Vasil’s stable shortly and we look for an improved showing throughout his Spring campaign.

A number of horses have also been inaugurated into the world of racing throughout the last quarter. Our Galileo – Queen’s Minstrel Gelding was recently named `Great Player,’ our Octagonal – Biddy Filly was named `Azzurro Moon,’ our Half Hennessy – Bold Elba Gelding was named `Isle of Elba,’ our Black Hawk – Imperial Trisk Colt was named `Dark Empire,’ and our Strategic – Mayneda Filly was named `Mayneda Strategy.’ Thanks to all owners who submitted names.

There are also a number of youngsters at various locations almost ready to make their racetrack debut. At Caulfield, our 3YO Johannesburg Filly, Matumi, is set to trial shortly, as is our 2YO Elvstroem colt, Bertrand. In Wodonga, both Dark Empire and Isle of Elba (shares still available) are set to debut shortly for trainer Brian Cox. At Riverend Park, the recently named `Great Player’ came extremely close to trialling before going shinsore once more. He is an impressive fellow who obviously requires a little more time, but the wait should be worth it if Russell’s opinion is correct.

All Members will now be aware that we are sending invoices out via email. Please contact us at brooke@clanbrooke.com if you have any issues in relation to opening up the attachments on such emails. There is no doubt that there will be some teething problems and it is imperative that all Members update their email details as soon as they change.

We also have a few dates for Members to record. We will be hosting Open Mornings at all stables over the next few months. The first at Aquanita’s Caulfield stable, will be held on Saturday 2nd May from 7:30am. Almost all horses currently trained by either Tony Vasil or Trent Pennuto will be present and a BBQ breakfast will be provided. The second will be at Pat Carey’s Mornington stables, and while the date is yet to be confirmed, it is likely to be on a Sunday morning in late May and details will be forwarded once confirmed. Again, we will endeavour to have all horses currently trained by Pat in attendance and breakfast will be provided. We will announce details of an open morning at Brian Jenkins’ stable in coming months.

On a final note, our heart goes out to everyone who has been affected by the terrible fires that swept through Victoria on 7th February. Whilst none of our trainers have been directly impacted, fire did sweep through Cliff Brown’s Narbethong property. Now training out of Singapore, Cliff was relieved to find that, remarkably, no residents – including the horses – were injured in the fires.

We hope you’re enjoying the Autumn Carnival and if your horse is racing, the best of luck.

Lots of winners,
Clanbrooke Racing


Wednesday 11th March


                                                      The week in view


Clanbrooke has had two racehorses in history who have won three on the trot for the stable. Strangely enough, both feature in the same race at Sandown today - Apparel Prince whose trainer Jodie Bohr is taking a leap of faith with the gelding, bringing him to town following his terrific Open Class win last start at Albury,  as well as Clanbrooke stallwart Ask The Music, who is now racing for Cliff Brown's Narbethong trainer Alan Evett.  Apparel Prince may be stepping up in class today, however his terrific 56.80s. 1000m last start compares with the best in the land (Scenic Blast won the Lightning S. [G1] last week in a time of 56.94s.). For a home bred (Clanbrooke x Jodie Bohr) gelding, it would be such a thrill to see him finish in the mix.

Jodie has also taken over the reins, at least for the time being, of our 3YO Untouchable filly, Grand Ness. Finding the going tough at provincial meetings in her two starts to date, Jodie will take her to Albury on Sunday with a host of other runners, to try her luck at a weaker class race. We wish Jodie all the best.

Clanbrooke stable horses were in action throughout the state over the Labour Day long weekend. Firstly, a heartfelt congratulations goes out to Odin Warrior members who witnessed his cruisy win over 2100m in the Showcase race at Stoney Creek on Sunday. A second win for the big gelding, he is a horse who, on breeding,  will only get better with age. Allanthus also took to the track, finishing 3rd at the Valley on Monday over 2500m. Although he probably should have won, he certainly confirmed that he is around his optimum distance now and a win shouldn't be too far off.  And who could forget Arapaho Miss. The mare featured in Group 1 racing on Saturday, coming up against the boys in the Australian Cup. Although she made up some ground in the straight, she did seem to be looking for more and a program will now be mapped out along these lines.


Monday 23rd February
                                                                            

                                               3 in a row for the Prince


A heartfelt congratulations to owners of `Apparel Prince' for his terrific win - the third in succession - for the 5YO Gelding at Albury last Friday. Competing in his first Open Class race with only 2 wins under his belt, the Prince displayed all the grit we know he possesses to stave off  rivals in a close finish. Because of this win, Jodie and Clanbrooke will have to reassess his immediate program - perhaps a trip into town is no longer a pipe dream...


Friday 20th February

                                                      The year so far...


With 31 starters for the year so far, the stable has achieved 4 winners, 3 second's, 3 third's and 6 fourth's. Although Racing Victoria now pays prizemoney down to 10th place, in most cases, placings from 5th down to 10th are mere token amounts. Clanbrooke has, traditionally, tallied prizemoney down to 4th and will continue to do so for now. That said, given our 31 starters to date, we have almost a 50% runners-earners ratio which, considering that we have had 3 first starters in Lyrical Currency, Beulah Belle and Grand Ness, as well as a high number of stayers who are, more often than not, only remote prospects at best over their first few outings, we think the stable is ticking along nicely at present.

So, what are the highlights to date? Well, obviously our four wins have been highlights - Apparel Prince, our home-bred 5YO Fubu Gelding, a horse who looked unlikely to make his debut at times, accounts for 2 of the stable wins for 2009. With a terrific record of 10: 3-0-1, the Prince has certainly provided many thrills for long-time Members. He will contend his first Open class race shortly and while this represents a huge jump in class for the gelding, his tenacity over the 1000m may just see him feature in the finish.

The second winner, Rescheduled, our Postponed gelding with the crazy mane, won at Yarra Valley the day before Australia Day. Only lightly raced to date, his promising 7th in the Listed Hilton International on Emirates Stakes Day  gave owners a sniff at the gelding's long-term potential. It should be onwards and upwards for this lad as he heads to Sandown next week over 1400m.

And the retirements? We have only one retirement to date this year. It was a most disappointing end to a brief racing career marked by the high's and low's. As an unraced filly, Tony Vasil felt her racing prospects were ominous at best. In fact, her first start vindicated his opinion. Finishing 9th of 10 at Moe, Tony  decided to give her just one more start to confirm her seeming lack of ability. However, her second race revealed a different horse - a racehorse to boot. Finishing 3rd at Sale in mid-December, Gold n Silk went on to win her Maiden at Kyneton on 11th January by the narrowest of margins. However, a fairytale this wasn't. Her following 2 starts were lacklustre and, following a vet inspection, it was found that she had suffered a bone chip, and was also diagnosed with a degenerative joint condition. Unfortunately, retirement was the only option.

The casualties? As opposed to retirements, casualties this month refer to a completely other intricacy of racing. Doubly Sure, our 5YO O'Reilly gelding who has shown incredible staying potential, particularly on the heavy going in the Listed Andrew Ramsden over 3200m (2nd) in May 2008, as well as the Listed Ballarat Cup (5th) in Novemebr 2008, was certainly well below his best at his last outing on New Years Day in the Listed 3200m Bagot Hcp (13th). Taking all stable observations and track performance into consideration, the difficult decision was subsequently made to geld the gentle boy. He is currently resting and recuperating and will return to work shortly, a little lighter of course.

And the ones to watch? Astronomo, a 4YO Galileo Gelding has finished within 1L from the winner at his last 4 outings. With a jump in distance today at Moonee Valley, we are hoping that he will take the next step in his career. Allanthus, a 4YO Street Cry Gelding, already G2 placed (2nd Autumn Clsc.), has been incredibly consistent throughout his short career and as he approaches his optimum distances, we hope to see him in the winners circle again very soon.   Mayneda Strategy, a Strategic Filly (from Mayneda) and recent addition to the Clanbrooke stable, had an incredible debut at Warnambool on 13th February, beaten only by a whisker.  Her next start has not been scheduled as yet but she seems an exciting filly.   So Majestic resumed recently at Sha Tin, lacking a little fitness at the end to finish 8th. His work has been stepped up  a notch and he should hit the track again in a couple of weeks. Meanwhile Odin Warrior, our 4YO Viking Ruler Gelding finished a very credible 4th today at Ballarat, hitting the lead in the straight in a Showcase race and showing that he will certainly rejoin the winners list very soon.

As for Arapaho Miss, our star filly, despite a promising return at Sandown on 24th January over an entirely unsuitable 1300m, her last start at the Valley was less than perfect, and owners are now looking for an improved performance in the Victoria Gold Cup on February 28 at Caulfield. She seems to have overcome her injury and we look for an improved performance at her next start.


Monday 9th February


                                                  The stable is growing...


                                                                              
                                                                              Beautiful Crown x Duchess Danehill Filly

We have added to our stable again today, this time at the Sydney Classic Sale. Inspected and recommended by our Bloodstock Agent Kevin Dagg, we were very pleased to purchase the above Beautiful Crown filly.

This is the first foal for DUCHESS DANEHILL (by Danehill Dancer). Second dam, Curzon Place, is a half sister to Victoria Debry [G1] winner BLACKFRIAR's, as well as SA Oaks [G1] winner LARROCHA, G2 winner MANTON, as well as 2 other Stakes winners.

We will advertise this filly as soon as we have appointed a trainer. In the meantime, if you are interested, please email us and we will provide further information.

Beautiful Crown x Duchess Danehill - pedigree

As a consequence of our recent purchases, we have decided to have a clearance of all remaining shares in Clanbrooke 2YO's.

  Black Hawk x Imperial Trisk 2YO Colt - trained by Brian Cox in Wodonga. Only $250 ingoing Management Fee (instead of the regular $750) and $250 per month per 10% share. 1 share remains. Colt in full work.

  Half Hennessey x Bold Elba 2YO Gelding - trained by Brian Cox in Wodonga. 25% discount on the ingoing price - down to $1500 per 10% share and $250 per month per 10% share. Gelding in full work.



Friday 6th February

                                                     Latest Arrivals

                                     
                                                         Postponed x Security Filly            Castledale x Moss Arising Filly


We are pleased to announce 2 new additions to the Clanbrooke stable, both purchased last week at the Karaka Select Sale (NZ).

The first is a Postponed Filly, by the same Sire as our own `Rescheduled,' out of the Grosvenor mare`Security',  who has had 2 winners from as many to race.

Clanbrooke purchased this filly in conjunction with Trainer Brian Jenkins who observed; “with her conformation, she should top any sale in Australia/NZ.”

Boasting 20 individual winners from 38 first crop runners, Postponed’s statistics have continued to impress over the last 2 Seasons and he now has 3 Group 1 winners to his name. Interestingly, Postponed finished 3rd by average at the Karaka Select Sale.

We had intended to advertise this filly shortly but as 9 shares have already sold to existing members, this may not be necessary. If you are interested, please contact us and we will provide additional information.

The second addition is a Filly by first season Sire `Castledale,' the multiple G1 winning son of Peintre Celebre, out of mare `Moss Arising.' Bought on type - for a great price - this filly would be ideal to be taken up by a group of friends. We will advertise her on this website and elsewhere as soon as photos are received. If you are interested in the meantime, please contact us to discuss options.

Postponed x Security Filly - pedigree
Castledale x Moss Arising Filly - pedigree

Sunday 1st February

                                Riverend Park Owners Lunch Postponed


Please be advised that the proposed owners lunch at Riverend Park which was to take place on Sunday 15th February, has been postponed until further notice. We will notify owners and post details on this page when a new date has been set.

Friday 23rd January

                                         Riverend Park Owners Lunch
 

On Sunday 15th February, Clanbrooke and Riverend Park will host a lunch for existing owners as well as anyone interested in having a look at the wonderful property. Russell will take a few Clanbrooke stable horses through their paces on the day, prior to lunch. Owners are welcome from 11:30am.

Please advise the office via email if you plan to attend, for catering purposes.

Monday 12th January

                                              Newsletter - January 2009


2008 was a year marked by highs and lows. Amongst the broader racing community, 2008 promised respite from the crippling Equine Influenza crisis. As for Clanbrooke, well, we anticipated an even better year for our star filly, Arapaho Miss.

As the National Yearling sales swung into gear, records fell nation-wide and the dour times appeared to be behind us. At the same time, Arapaho Miss hit the track in style, notching up a 3rd and 4th in elite company over unsuitable distances.

Only months later, global economic crisis saw decreasing sales results creep across the globe, and our star mare was relegated to extended paddock rest when it was discovered that she had sustained bone chips in the Randwick Guineas.

Yet racing goes on and the last quarter of the year yielded 9 winners for Clanbrooke - from Morphetville - to Berrigan - to Kranji (Singapore). We think we have an exciting racehorse in So Majestic, trained by Cliff Brown in Singapore. His 2 wins and 1 second (from only 3 starts) have kick started what we hope will be a long and prosperous career, so keep an eye on the Singapore form as he tackles some bigger races in the Autumn.

Opportunities for emerging racehorses are so ripe in Singapore that we will be buying a horse at the Yearling Sales with the specific intention of racing in Singapore. As a guide, training fees are equivalent to Australian standards at approximately $275 per 10% per month. Whilst the initial freight cost (approximately $1000 per 10% share) is in addition to the purchase price, horses subsequently race at Maiden level for AU$50K instead of the Australian $12.5K. We are looking to spend up to AU$40K so if you are interested in pursuing this opportunity, please contact us as we have more information about Singapore racing available on request.

Despite the downturn in the economy, Clanbrooke expects to be active at the upcoming Yearling sales. We believe the depressed market will enable us to realize better value for money. We are seeking to buy progeny by a select few Sires – please call us (9540 0317) for more information. Similarly, if you wish to have some input into the purchase, please contact us prior to the sales.

Enclosed is a flyer highlighting shares currently on offer. If you do not like to wait for a horse to mature, have a look at the current ready to run 2YO’s we have in our stable. With Sires including Danehill Dancer, Johannesburg, Strategic and Black Hawk, it promises to be a year of exciting track debut’s.

As always, we have witnessed retirements over the last quarter. We wished Gala Evening luck in her upcoming stud career after her three years with Clanbrooke. Her record (40: 6-11-5 and $82K prize money) is testimony to the fantastic ride experienced by all Members. Jupiter Lass was also retired from the Clanbrooke stable and sold to a Member of the Partnership who will continue to race her. We wish him luck and will follow her career with interest. Soy, a 4YO Fusaichi Pegasus mare was also recently retired. Initially full of promise, her more recent efforts at the track were less than impressive, and trainer Russell Cameron recommended retirement. Members agreed and she will, more than likely, go to stud in 2009 with a great pedigree behind her.

In other news, Acatabove has been transferred to Morphetville and the recently reinstated trainer Mark Minervini. Mark elected to relinquish his trainers license a few months ago due to personal reasons, but has since decided to reapply and establish a new training complex. We welcome Mark back to the fold and wish him the best of luck in the upcoming season with Acatabove and also some new horses we hope to send him in 2009.

We also welcome back Trent Pennuto, formerly of Mornington, to the Clanbrooke trainers list. Recently joining Aquanita at Caulfield, Trent now trains a new Strategic filly for Clanbrooke. We look forward to many more training pursuits with Trent and wish him the best of luck from his new base.

For those who were not in attendance, Clanbrooke hosted our annual marquee on Wodonga Cup Day, November 30. About 30 Members made their way to the border town for the day and whilst 3 horses looked set to run, a comedy of errors saw but one, our stable matriarch in Gala Evening, tackle the field for the last time. Galant in defeat, Members were pleased they had witnessed an end to a career. Thanks to all who attended. Our 2009 plans have not been finalized just yet, but we are looking at a Members day a little closer to home, perhaps at Mornington later in the year.

The forthcoming summer racing program also promises some nail biting times for owners. Doubly Sure is set to tackle the Bagot Handicap at Flemington on New Years Day. Whilst his run on the sodden track in the Ballarat Cup was inspiring, his performance at his most recent outing at Caulfield was lacklustre. Owners hope that his renowned aversion to his home track was to blame. A classic stayer, Doubly needs a big win if he is to tackle the longer races later this year.

As mentioned in our last newsletter, the Telephone Hotline has now been retired from active duty. Patronage had been steadily declining over the last couple of years and was no longer a viable communication vehicle. Emails will replace all last-minute emergency phone updates but, as always, we encourage Members to stay abreast of all scratchings on Raceday via the 927 scratching update service at 9am and 10am, as well as the Racing Victoria website: (http://www.racingvictoria.net.au/rvl/racing.scratchings.view.cmd). Due to separate circumstances beyond our control, the Members web is currently unavailable. We will advise when it is working again and, in the meantime, updates will be distributed via email.

Thanks to all Members for your ongoing support throughout 2008. Have a great summer and see you at the track in 2009.

Clanbrooke Racing


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