Jamie Richards made his debut as a Hong Kong Trainers sending three runners to Happy Valley races on Wednesday evening

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Fortuna has two runners on Saturday –  one in NZ and one in Singapore
 
New Zealand – Matamata – Saturday 8th

LEADERBOARD contests the Open 2000m event – Race 10 @ 4.09pm – Opie Boson to ride from Barrier 6. Disappointed at New Plymouth last start 1800m but did strike a sticky track which may be his excuse – on path to NZ Cup and this race suits as part of the build up. 2000m may be a bit short, but gets a top rider and track conditions to suit – should be running on strongly – place chance

Singapore – Saturday

OLYMPIA runs in the Class 5 1000m Poly – Race 8 @ 3.30pm Sing time (8.30pm NZT) – Stable Apprentice Jerlyn Seow, claiming 3kgs, rides from barrier 8 – Was a tearaway leader last start and could not sustain the run. Has been a very consistent performer – will be ridden more conservatively this time – can feature at odds

Fortuna Track work – Matamata
 
Tuesday  4^th October

No timed Fortuna trackwork today

Fortuna Track work – Singapore
 
Saturday  1^st October

Kermajack (Jerlyn) – 1000/600 36.5; Olympia (Yusoff) – 800/600 37.5; Rocky (Jake) – 800/600 39;

Tuesday  4^th October

Deception (Aslam) – 1000/600 36.5;

Other News

KING ARTHUR wins again in Singapore – his 9^th career win in exactly 12 months breaking the Class record in the process – see full story below;

Fortuna’s KING ARTHUR imperious again in Singapore securing his 9th career victory – 2nd October

The five year old Gelding KING ARTHUR (by I Am Invincible out of Pentasia) who had already secured eight wins in Singapore since 2nd October 2021, lifting his rating from 52 to 101 in the process, demonstrated that he deserved to sit among the current elite thoroughbreds in Singapore when taking out the Kranji A Stakes 1200m Turf event, smashing the Class record in the process. Drawn nicely in Barrier 2, the Te Akau Racing Stable Apprentice, Fadzli Yusoff, had King Arthur away well and was content to lob along in 4th place one off the rail and in behind a hot pace set by two tear away leaders in Sky Eye and Illustrious. Turning for home, King Arthur was still 4 lengths adrift of Sky Eye, but Yusoff got busy on him and was able to get his head in front of a gallant Sky Eye, going to the line with a half length margin in a winning and Class record time of 1.08.51.

Click HERE to see the race replay

Te Akau Racing’s Singapore Trainer, Donna Logan, who was hosting Te Akau Racing Principal, David Ellis, visiting from New Zealand, was over the moon. “Gee, he is well named, this horse isn’t he, he is a real super star in our stable – fabulous effort by the horse and a lovely ride by Yusoff, who just rides him so well. My heart is bursting with pride with the great result for the horse and all of the staff who just love him to bits. Its just fabulous as well to have the big boss of Te Akau Racing, David Ellis here to see this result on top of our other winner, Charmington, earlier in the day, a horse that David acquired and sent up to Singapore. And what a fantastic result for John Galvin and his Fortuna Racing team of Owners – the Fortuna Racing Stable has now had 17 wins in Singapore in 2022, 7 of them courtesy of King Arthur – they have been great supporters of Singapore Racing for many years and deserve every success that they get.”

“King Arthur” – Win #9 – 2nd October 2022

Fortuna Racing’s John Galvin, who had been on hand in Singapore in July when King Arthur had last won, was watching the race from his home in New Zealand. “Wow, that was just awesome to watch – on paper he was the horse to beat, but they still have to do it and to be fair, he was probably still one race away from being fully fit, so to come out and win again like this is just a fabulous result for the horse, Donna Logan, her stable staff and my wonderful team of Owners. And full marks to Yusoff, he has really matured this year as a rider – he was content to let King Arthur relax even when the leaders had got away to a decent break.”

Te Akau Principal David Ellis, Fadzli Yusoff and Donna Logan post race

KING ARTHUR was originally raced in Sydney, Australia as Tintagel by clients of the Bjorn Baker Stable, but after two race day starts and not meeting their expectations, they decided to put him on the market and he was purchased by John Galvin on the advice of former Singapore Trainer, Mark Walker, out of the October 2020 Inglis Digital Sale for A$25,000. He is raced by The Fortuna King Arthur Syndicate, an ownership group of 31 individuals from New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong and Malaysia. He has now accumulated S$442,000 with nine wins, six 2nds and two thirds from 22 starts in Singapore.

David Ellis returns from a successful visit to review the Singapore operation

Te Akau principal David Ellis has returned from a 6 day visit to Singapore to review the Te Akau Racing Stables operation and conduct talks with Senior Officials from the Singapore Turf Club. David attended the race meeting on October 2^nd and was on hand to join the celebrations with two Stable runners, firstly the Te Akau Racing syndicated Charmington winning for the 3^rd time in Singapore and Fortuna Racing’s King Arthur, who took out the feature race on the program, giving him 9 victories in exactly 12 months.

David was delighted to see Te Akau Singapore Trainer, Donna Logan in the hunt for the premiership. “I can’t speak highly-enough of the job that she is doing and the quality of our Kranji team,” he said. “Everybody involved in Singapore racing loves Donna, she is very popular. For her to be in front in the premiership after only being there for four years and just her first year at the helm of the Te Akau operation is an enormous credit to her.”
“All of our stable runners presented in great order and it is clear to me that all of our horses in Singapore are in great hands.

“It was a big thrill for me to see a horse that I purchased and syndicated by Karyn, Charmington, win for the 3^rd time from just five starts and Fortuna Racing’s King Arthur was just super in winning the big race on the day – John Galvin’s Fortuna Racing Team is just flying in Singapore with 17 wins for the year and in hot contention to be the leading Owner for the 2022 year – John has supported Te Akau with its Singapore operation from day one in 2010 which is great to see”

David also met with Senior officials from the STC and came away from those meetings with a renewed sense of optimism about the future of Singapore Racing.

“It’s no secret that the Turf Club has had its difficulties during the Covid lockdown period but with crowds now returning on race days things are slowly turning to normal and key appointments to the senior management team herald a renewed approach to racing administration and growth initiatives at the club  and a brighter future ahead – we are expecting some major announcements from the STC shortly. I am going to continue our support for the Singapore operation and will be looking to buy suitable candidates for Singapore racing from the upcoming Ready To Run Sale”

Jamie Richards made his debut as a Hong Kong Trainer sending three runners to Happy Valley races on Wednesday evening

The three runners, Rattan Kingdom, Flying On The Turf and Fortune Master finished 2nd, 5^th and 8^th respectively – this writer spoke with Jamie Thursday morning and he expressed satisfaction with his initial debut “Two of my runners were favourites but rail was out in the widest position and luck didn’t quite go our way, but overall I am happy with how we are going” he said

Richards arrived in Hong Kong late last season to set up his stable after numerous years at the helm of Te Akau Racing in New Zealand, where he trained with remarkable success at home and across the Tasman in Australia.

The 33-year-old is synonymous with training exceptional talents such as Melody Belle, Probabeel, Te Akau Shark, Xtravagant, Gingernuts and Avantage. He was crowned New Zealand Champion Trainer four times (2015/16 [with Steven Autridge], 2019/20, 2020/21 and 2021/22) and set single-season wins and prize money records in the process.

The winner of more than 50 Group Ones, Richards is aware of the challenges he faces in an entirely new environment – while lucrative – that is renowned for its unforgiving nature.

“It’s very different (here in Hong Kong), from a training perspective the heat and humidity play roles and from a handicap and acceptances point of view it’s very different too with trump cards, preferences and the like, so it’s taken a little bit of getting used to but we’ve got Jonesy as our assistant trainer and he has a good handle on all of that,” he said. “There’ll be plenty to learn over the next 12 months and couple of years but in time hopefully we can sort it all out.”

Currently with 51 horses registered in his stable, Richards’ highest rated horse is Buddies who sits on a mark of 88 after transferring as a Group Three winner from the Tony Cruz yard. Palamos, whom Richards previously trained in New Zealand, is one of several four-year-olds in his care along with Starfire Gems, a 63-rated son of Japanese sire Maurice.

“It’s been plenty of different lunches and dinners with all of the owners and working that side of things out but I’m really pleased with the support that the owners have given us and now it’s time to do the job for them,” Richards said.

Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Hi John and Team Fortuna

OUR tracks have really taken a beating this season. To see Hastings cancelled was a no-brainer bearing in mind the big wet that hit the area and good old  Matamata is the saviour for the group ones this weekend. It’s a great result on another count to see the group ones move north to this venue  when  you consider the amount of group one horses that have been trained on the course by champion trainers both present and past. Rather fitting I reckon to see the the centre finally gets its first group one race in its 103 years of existence.

I’ll be focussing on Matamata for our horse to follow this Saturday but a quick word on the quinella selection last week, the Fortuna pair, Dancarina and Navalha at Riccarton. Dancarina was slow to begin and was taken hold of by her rider to obtain cover and Navalha was also restrained behind runners in the early stages to find a decent spot in the running. Both did well to finish third and 4th respectively but I reckon they are crying for a decent spring track. To be brutally honest the Riccarton track was favouring the wet trackers. It was a tad shifty to the naked eye.

Both horses will keep until next time.

Back to Matamata with some terrific betting races. Mark Walker is for a field day and the one I’ve settled on is the beautifully bred Outfit ( Tivaci-Costume) in race 4. She tended to lay out Te Rapa but ran the third quickest last 200 despite finishing 11th. The astute stable has opted for blinkers on Saturday and with Opie Bosson engaged a form reversal is highly likely. She’s always been held in high regard by the stable and I can see this four year old mare going through the classes.

The price of $7.50 and $2.50 is indicative of the class she’s facing and each  way all day as they say is the best attack.

Good punting!

David Ellis makes a trip to Singapore to visit the Te Akau Racing Stables  and attend the Oct 2^ndRaceday

Donna Logan surges back to the top of the Singapore Trainer’s Premiership

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Fortuna has seven runners over the weekend –  four in NZ and three in SingaporeNew Zealand – Riccarton – Saturday

NAVALHA contests the R75 1200 – Race 4 @1.14pm – Jason Laking to ride from Barrier 2. Strong last start winner, same trip and venue 17^th September. Up in grade and meets a good field here but represents a top 3 chance.

DANCARINA also contests the R75 1200 – Race 4 @1.14pm –Stable apprentice Joe Kamaruddin to ride from Barrier 12. Blew them away closing stages this  venue 1000m 3rd September. Very good each way chance

MALBOROUGH BAY runs in the Inglewood Stud Guineas Trial, a 3yo Set weight and Penalties event over 1400m – Race 5 @ 1.48pm – Joe Kamaruddin, claiming 1kg, to ride. A bold debut winner as a 2yo in May, he has had two runs as a 3yo for a 2^nd at Taupo 1300m and a close up 3^rd 1000m Riccarton 3^rd September. A talented galloper on target for the 2000 Guineas, he meets some smart types here, but represents a top 3 chance

Woodville – Sunday

KHAFEEF makes his Hurdles debut in the Maiden Hurdles 3200m event – race 2 @ 1.52pm – Shaun Fannin to ride – widely touted by the stable as “the best jumper in the stable” – he gets his chance hear to prove that assessment right. Hard to predict an outcome on his first go at this discipline but if he jumps kindly and relaxes in the run, he can feature

Singapore – Sunday

BRIGGS contests the Maiden 1200m Poly – Race 2 @ 12.30pm Sing time (5.30pm NZT) – Leading Singapore jockey Manoel Nunes rides from barrier 1 – Ran 3^rd on debut two weeks ago after drawing wide over 1000m. Has taken big improvement from his debut run – top 3 chance here

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club tipsters say about this race ;

1st Pick: STREET OF DREAMS (3)
Easiest race this horse has contested so far in his four start career. Trials have been promising, looks set to win.
2nd Pick: BRIGGS (1)
The rise to 1200m and race day experience should assist his chances. Must lug the top weight though which looks to be the only worry for him.
3rd Pick: HOLY ELEANOR (6)
Now an eight-time runner up, she rarely runs a bad race. She deserves to win one as she rarely finds herself out of the finish.
4th Pick: THE STAR (4)
Fresh up here stepping out for career start number four. Another who faces a much easier field than what it has in the past and should be among the top place getters, respect.

KING ARTHUR contests the feature race on the programme – the Class 1 1200m Turf – Race 11 @ 5pm Sing time (10pm NZT) – Leading Singapore apprentice jockey Fadzli Yusoff, claiming 2kgs, rides from barrier 2 – the most improved horse in Singapore in 2022, he has taken a lot of improvement out of his resuming run 1100m Poly 17^thSeptember. Never easy to win these sorts of races, but is the class form horse in the field and should be hard to beat

ENTERTAINER also contests the Class 1 1200 Turf – an impressive last start win Class 3 1000m Poly means he gets his chance here in the hands of Stable Apprentice Jerlyn Seow, claiming 3kgs. Loves to lead and with a featherweight to carry, is bound to give a sight and could be hard to run down. Top 3 chance       

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club tipsters say about this race ;

1st Pick: KING ARTHUR (2)
Runner up in the G1 Lion City Cup two starts ago. Didn’t lose any admirers on the Poly last start and should strip fitter from that. Stable seem to have him going well and looks a main threat. Draws very well and leading apprentice claims weight.
2nd Pick: GRAND KOONTA (1)
Continues to run well off a high rating. Because of that he has been allocated 59.5kgs on the weight scale but he was one of the eye catchers in the Group One last start, so a top three finish is well within his reach again.
3rd Pick: ENTERTAINER (5)
Well weighted here after just scoring last start on the Polytrack. He has never missed a place in three attempts at this course and distance. Comes from our leading stable and could be some value with a good run from barrier one.
4th Pick: MURAAHIB (3)
Gets back on the turf for the first time since November last season where he has some healthy course and distance stats. Should appreciate the rise back to 1200m. Each way claims

“King Arthur” – Career Win #8 – 17th July 2022 – Fadzli Yusoff aboard

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

No timed Fortuna trackwork this week

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday  24th September

Kermajack (Jerlyn) – C, 1000/600 39; Olympia (Jamil) – 1000/600 36; King Arthur (Yusoff) – 1000/600 38; Briggs (Jake) – 1000/600 38; Our Final Offer (Aslam) – 1000/600 39;

Tuesday  27th September

Olympia (Jamil) – 800/600 39; Our Final Offer (Jamil) – 1000/600 48; King Arthur (Yusoff) – 800/600 38.5; Entertainer (Yusoff) – 800/600 39; Briggs (Nunes) – 800/600 38;

Other News

David Ellis makes a trip to Singapore to visit the Te Akau Stables in Singapore and attend the Oct 2^nd Raceday

On Thursday 29^th of September Te Akau Supremo David Ellis departed for a well overdue visit to the Te Akau Singapore operation – as we all know Covid 19 restrictions created havoc across the board particularly with international travel. A lot has happened in Singapore racing since David was last there with Mark Walker having returned to New Zealand after an 11 year stint and Donna Logan appointed to the head trainer role as of first of January this year. The Singapore Turf Club (STC) has not been without its difficulties either, with Covid 19 restrictions causing a period without racing in 2020 and then crowds free racing for almost the next two years – thankfully the crowds are now back on course.

During his six-day visit David will be meeting with Donna Logan and Donna’s husband and invaluable right hand man, Peter Woods stable staff, Singapore-based clients and also having significant conversations with senior management at the Singapore Turf Club about its plans for ongoing investment and development of its racing programme. David will also attend the race meeting on October 2^nd where the Premiership leading trainer, Te Akau’s Donna Logan, will present 14 runners on the day, including two in the feature race the Class 1 1200 Turf, the Fortuna runners, King Arthur and Entertainer

Donna Logan surges back to the top of the Singapore Trainer’s Premiership

With just two months to go to the end of the Singapore racing season it is a seesaw race at top of the trainers premiership with both Donna Logan and Tim Fitzsimmons trading blows. In the early months of the season Fitzsimmons had got out to a commanding lead as Donna was getting her feet under the table in her new role as Te Akau head trainer, but steadily she clawed the lead back and hit the front. However a period of Polytrack only racing during September saw Donna produce a lower number of runners to the races each week and Fitzsimmons regained the lead on the 17^th of September with a two win margin. But then on the 24^th of September Donna produced three winners with Tim going home empty-handed for the day and Donna now sits on 50 wins with Tim on 49. Of the other contenders Michael Clements sits in third place on 39 wins and so it would seem given the relatively short period to run until the end of the season that it’s going to continue to be a two horse race.

See the table below, remarkable that Donna has 52 2nds and 51 3rds to go with her 50 wins

Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Hi John and Team Fortuna

Here we go for this week. I think you are in for a good day at Riccarton. In fact I’m going with you

Last week’s selection, Follow Your Dreams at Ruakaka, clearly had a tough run. He was caught wide in 4th or 5th spot and worked even wider entering the  straight. Realistically he was a sitting duck despite challenging for the lead and in a race where it suited the back runners with such a strong pace the tie up over the last 200m wasn’t totally unexpected. The biggest surprise was the amount of money on him. On the morning of the race Follow Your Dreams was paying $7 but this quote amazingly halved at the jump!

With the forecast for group one racing at Hastings looking “very  un-spring like”  I’ve decided to focus on the meeting at Riccarton on Saturday which looks certain to have more favourable underfoot conditions. While it may appear to be a support race day for Hastings it holds far more appeal as a lead in to the upcoming Cup carnival at Riccarton. I see wonderful betting races at Riccarton all day. I think the Fortuna team will play a significant hand, too, and I reckon there’s a Fortuna quinella in the offing in race 4.

Firstly, Navalha, TAB no.7: From day one this horse looked promising and obviously age has been his friend. He’s now 5 and his win on the track a fortnight ago was very impressive when running just 0.25 of a second slower than the open sprinters on the day after being clearly on the wrong foot at the start. He’s up in grade but drops 3kgs on that last run. Any further improvement in the track conditions will also be an assist.

Secondly, Dancarina (no.14): She’s by the same sire as Navalha, in Sebring and again maturity has been a positive with her even though she showed real promise from the outset. Her last win, like her stablemate, was impressive over 1000m and clearly the step up to 1200 will suit. She was  super quick over 1000m in 57.07 and finished the last 200m in 11.25. It was seemingly an effortless performance with the expectation there’s a lot more to come.

Get this. In the next race that day, open sprinter and stablemate Burgundy Rose covered the same ground  in 57.56, almost a half second slower!

I can’t separate the pair.

The bookies at press time had them both around the $4-$5 mark. Two wins bets suit the pocket this week  but the quinella is definitely a genuine option.

Fingers crossed for the team.

Good punting!

MOHAWK BRAVE contests the R75 1200 – Race 5 @3.13pm – Stable Apprentice Parmar Singh claiming 3kgs to ride from Barrier 7 on a Soft 5 track. Classy type who won 3 times as a 3yo and ran 4^th in the G1 Levin Classic – Bold 4th when resuming at Taupo 24^th August. Well placed here and is a top 3 chance

SOPRANO SUPREME runs in the R75 1600 – Race 8 @ 4.58pm – Opie Bosson to ride. Genuine staying type who finished off strongly 1400m Te Rapa 27^th August. Is looking for more ground but 1600m will suit well 2^nd up – Can feature in the first 3 in this

Singapore

TRIDENT contests the Class 4 1400m Turf – Race 8 @ 3.30pm Singapore Time (7.30pm NZT) and will be ridden by Premiership leading jockey, Manoel Nunes from Barrier 2. Three Singapore starts for a 2^nd and two wins says it all for this 4yo son of Deep Field. Good draw, top rider, but takes on older more experienced runners in what is a good form race – needs to step up to this challenge, but is more than capable of doing so

HADEER contests the Class 3 1200m Turf – Race 10 @ 4.30pm Singapore Time (8.30pm NZT) and will be ridden by Jake Bayliss  from Barrier 1. Has not won for 12 months almost to the day after winning 3 in a row in the Spring of 2021 – now back to a rating where he can win again, strong rider, great draw. Represents a top 3 chance in this

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club tipsters say about this race

1st Pick: WEALTH ELITE (11)
Weighted incredibly well here to run a great race. Has been running good times lately and is coming out of race where he couldn’t get any clear running at a crucial stage.
2nd Pick: FROM THE NAVY (7)
Trialed the house down Tuesday morning under a hold. Looks to be going well enough to make an impression here this weekend.
3rd Pick: QUARTER BACK (1)
Ran a strong second to Illustrious after being caught wide throughout. That form should hold up, top three hope with a nice claim to assist him this weekend.
4th Pick: HADEER (4)
His best would see him winning a race like this comfortably however, he seems to have been off his game a little the last two starts. Hopefully he can turn it around this weekend at his favorite track and distance with the ace draw.

BRUTUS runs in the Class 4 1200m Turf – Race 12 @ 5.30pm Singapore Time (9.30pm NZT) and will be ridden by leading Singapore apprentice, Fadzli Yusoff, claiming 2kgs, from an outside barrier. A five time winner in Singapore, he has been winless since March, but has been close up recent starts – back to a Rating where he can win but has a horror draw to overcome

DECEPTION also runs in the Class 4 1200m Turf – Race 12 @ 5.30pm Singapore Time (9.30pm NZT) and will be ridden by Singapore apprentice, Simon Kok, claiming 1kg, from barrier 9. This beautifully bred son of I Am Invincible had had 12 starts in Singapore for just one win, but rarely runs a bad race – has had 2 recent starts in Group Company, where he ran well but without luck – resumed from a break last start on the Poly running 5^th but will be well suited going back to the Turf here – represents a top 3 chance here

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Monday  19^th September

Mohawk Brave (R Khan) worked over 1000 metres in 1.01.32, home in 36.76.

Soprano Supreme (L MacNab) worked over 1200 metres 1.02.2, home in 36.64.

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday  17th September

Brutus (Jerlyn) – 1000/600 38; Deception (Aslam) – 1000/600 37.5; Our Final Offer (Aslam) – 1000 40; Kermajack (Louis) – 800/600 38

Tuesday  20th September

Brutus (Jerlyn) – 800/600 38.5; Kermajack (Jerlyn) – 800/600 37; Olympia (Jamil) – 800/600 38; 38; Trident (Nunes) – 800/600 39; Deception (Simon) – 800/600 40.5;

Other News

Fortuna scores a double 17^th September – NAVALHA at Riccarton and ENTERTAINER in Singapore – both very satisfying wins – Navalha had not greeted the judge in eighteen months and after winning seven times in 12 months in Singapore, Entertainer had struggled with his form since last winning in January 2022

See the Navalha story below; 

NAVALHA wins at Riccarton 17th September 2022
Published 18 September 2022

Given a gun ride by Opie Bosson, NAVALHA, the five year old gelding by Sebring out of Afiado (Encosta De Lago) won the $30,000 Rating 65 1200 metres on Saturday at Riccarton. After running home strongly for third when resuming in the Rating 65 1300 metres on 24 August at Taupo, Navalha was ideally placed to rate an each-way chance and showed appreciation for the course at his first attempt. In a trailing position near the rail during the run, Bosson angled Navalha into daylight on straightening at the 400m and he went on to score dominantly bringing up his 3rd career win. In the race sponsored by NZB Ready To Run Sale Trainers Series, Navalha ran 1200 metres in 1:10.9 on Soft6 footing and drifted in betting to pay $3.40 & $1.40 on the NZ TAB tote.

Click HERE to see the race replay

“It was a very good ride and great win by Navalha,” said trainer Mark Walker. “He’s a horse that’s had niggling issues with feet and different things, but good to get another win and it won’t be his last now that he’s striding out nicely.”

NAVALHA won his first two races when he first came to New Zealand from Australia in the 2020/21 season, but then ran into a series of setbacks which curtailed his racing programme, resulting in just five race day starts during the 2021/22 season for minor placings only.

Fortuna Racing’s Director John Galvin was at New Plymouth races on the day, but was cheering his charge home via the big screen at that venue. “That was extremely satisfying to watch – there is no question that Navalha is a telented galloper, but soundness issues have conspired against him, however Mark has been very patient with him and full kudos to Mark for deciding to send the horse to Riccarton as he does appreciate the better tracks and Mark was also of the view that he would be well suited by the Riccarton chute. It was a super ride by Opie as well.”

NAVALHA (which means “Razor” in Portuguese), a 3yo Gelding by Sebring out of the Encosta de Lago Mare, Afiado, was acquired by John Galvin on the recommendation of Mark Walker, for just A$27,500 from the Inglis Digital Sale in July 2020 after having been originally acquired by his previous owners for A$475k as a yearling.

Navalha is raced by the Fortuna Navalha Syndicate, an ownership group of 57 individuals and was strapped by Hannah Lowry.

And the Entertainer story here:

ENTERTAINER wins in Singapore – 17th September 2022 – his 8th career win

Published 18 September 2022
ENTERTAINER (5yo Gelding by Zoustar out of Laughing) bought up his 8th career win in Singapore when producing a very stylish victory in the Class 3 1000m Polytrack event at Singaore’s Kranji racetrack in the hands of Singapore’s leading apprentice, Fadzli Yusoff. Away nicely, Yusoff took his charge to an uncontested lead and on turning for home was full of running. However at the 3oom mark, a stern challenge emerged in the form of Darc Bounty with Louie Beuzelin aboard, making a rails run. This runner surged past Entertainer on the inside putting half a length on him, but “Joker” (as he is known around the stable) still had a bit in reserve and under a vigorous ride from Yusoff, had the last laugh going to the line with his head in front of Darc Bounty.

Click HERE to see the race replay

Entertainer makes it 8 wins in Singapore – 17th September 2022

Trainer Donna Logan, for whom Entertainer’s win gave her a double on the day and her 47th win for the season was over the moon “ That was just sensatioinal to watch, I thought we were beaten, but the horse showed great courage to fight back and it was a super, super ride by Yusoff, Congrats to John Galvin and his big crew of Owners – the Fortuna Stable here in Singapore is going great guns – that is there 16th win for the 2022 season”

Fortuna Director, John Galvin, attending the race day at New Plymouth in New Zealand, was on a flight to Auckland when the race was run. “We landed about 15 minutes after the race was run, I turned my phone on, saw the result and then watched the replay and could hardly believe what I was seeing – I was sure we were going to run a brave 2nd but Joker found another gear – and gee, hasn’t Yusoff come on with his riding skills in 2022 – he handled the horse beautifully. And full kudos to Donna and her team – they do an incredibly professional job for us”

John also paid tribute to Blake Shinn, who had ridden Entertainer into 2nd place on the 18th of August, turning around a long run of indifferent form by the horse. “It’s no secret that we were scratching our heads with this horse – after winning so well in January, his next few runs were very out of character, but during Blake’s stint in Singapore, he deduced that Joker was getting too worked up pre race and suggested we apply a set of ear muffs – they really worked the oracle when Blake rode him into a close up 2nd placing in August and it was apparent yesterday, how well the horse has responded to the gear change.”

Entertainer was acquired by Mark Walker on behalf of Fortuna Racing at the Inglis Digital sale in December 2019 for A$20,000 – he has now won eight races from twenty three starts in Singapore and accumulated S$293,000 in prizemoney, a great return on investment for his ownership group

Entertainer is raced by the Fortuna Entertainer Syndicate, an ownership group consisting of 51 individuals from NZ, Australia and the USA

Entertainer was also featured in the lead article of the Racing Page in Singapore’s leading newspaper, the Singapore Straits Times on Monday 19^th September – see below;

Mark Walker carrying all before him in the new season with 33 winners as of 21 Sept – Strike Rate of 5.09

Unquestionably Mark has had a brilliant start to the new season recording 33 wins in just seven weeks – this is quite remarkable particularly given the extremely difficult weather conditions that have made it very challenging for all trainers. However Mark and his team have shrugged that off and just gone about their business in their usual professional manner – 5 wins from 8 races at Matamata this Wednesday is testament to that.

I speak with Mark a lot of course, as readers would appreciate and in his usual modest manner, he always deflects praise from him personally, he talks of the quality of the horses that David has bought for the stable and the high quality of the staff. While all of ths stable staff at Matamata and at Riccarton deserve praise for their efforts, Mark is very well supported by Assistant Trainer, Sam Bergerson and traveling Foreman, Hunter Durrant, both outstanding young men with bright futures ahead of them.

Looking at the Trainers Table, it is notable that Kevin Myers sits in 2^nd place with 16 wins at a strike rate of 5.44 – “Dummy” always comes to the fore in the winter months of course, but having said that, he has been a top 10 trainer for many seasons now and last Sunday at Te Rapa, Kiddo gave him his 3^rd career win in the Great Northern Steeples. Kevin of course trains Khafeef and Beau Geste for Fortuna and its great for me to see our two NZ Trainers at one and two on the Trainer’s list

Guest Selector – Des Coppins

Des’ selection last week gave us a great sight but in the end fell victim to rider error – here is what Des has to say this week;

Blackwood Star had the toughest of experiences for us last week in the ultimate 3200m plus  staying trip at New Plymouth on Saturday. Sadly she missed the start by three or four lengths and settled last.  At one stage she was a conservative  20 lengths from the pace but when the pack tightened a   fair bit down the back straight the young jockey, instead of casually nursing her mount into her work, let the brakes off  and sprinted from last to first in less than 250m to slip clear well before the turn. Exhaustion naturally kicked in for the brave mare  over the last furlong and she understandably had nothing to give when the challenges came thick and fast in the straight.

Clearly it was an error of judgement by the young jockey but one I’m sure she  will learn from. One thing’s for sure, Blackwood Star would have slept well on Saturday night.

This weekend I am focusing on Ruakaka for a nice each way bet. I can see value on 4 or 5 races at Ruakaka but I’ve settled on the local, Follow Your Dreams in race 4.

Like most Ruakaka-trained runners he saves his  best for the home track and has won  twice there with a host of placings as well. He was game in running second to his well performed stablemate , Zelinsky, at Ruakaka about a month ago, beating the well performed Pris De Fer and Crystalise who ran two and one at Te Rapa last Sunday. With the in form promising apprentice Kelsey Hannan on board again I sense Follow Your Dreams will sit close to the pace with only 51kgs – a drop of 8kgs when he  settled too far back when third on the track at her last start – and outmuscle his well performed rivals, who although have more experience, are less seasoned.

The odds are appealing on a one over two units  at $7 and $2.50.

Fingers crossed – Follow Your Dreams will get us back in the black!

Good punting and good luck with the in form Fortuna team this weekend

Des runs  his very popular phone tipping line (you can access this by calling 0900 45459 – note this incurs a charge of $2.99 per minute) – this service has been active for over 25 years and covers all NZ gallops from 8am each race day).

Queen Elizabeth II, arguably the world’s greatest cheerleader for thoroughbred racing is no longer with us and we mourn her passing

Singapore’s most improved racehorse in 2022, King Arthur, resumes at Kranji this coming Saturday

Fortuna acquires a Lonhro two-year-old filly at the recent Magic Million online sale –  all of her shares fully committed within three hours of being promoted by us

New Zealand

Friday

MADAME MOET contests the R65 1800 metre event at Taupo – Race 2 @ 1.02pm – Opie Bosson to ride. A last start winner in R60 grade at Matamata 7^th September she steps up in trip and grade to contest this event. A strong winner at Matamata in Maiden Grade at 1600m last January and believing that distance races can be within her reach, this race is somewhat of an “experiment” to see if she can run the 1800m out. Third up this campaign and in good form, if she can see out the trip, she can feature here

Saturday

NAVALHA runs in the R65 1200 down the Riccarton chute – Race 4 at 2.05pm with Opie Bosson aboard – winning his first two NZ starts in succession in the 2020/22 season, he struck soundness issues and ran well at a handful of starts in the 2021/22 season but without winning – ran a solid 3^rd placing at Taupo on resuming and is poised to run well here – query over track conditions but if he handles, he is a top 3 chance

LEADERBOARD runs at New Plymouth in the Interprovincial Championship – an Open Handicap over 1800m – Race 7 @ 4.08pm – Lisa Allpress to ride – battled home when resuming 1600m at Matamata at a trip too short, he is an out and out stayer who is heading to the NZ Cup – has been kept on the fresh side for this trip and will be running home strongly with just 54kgs to carry. It is a very competitive field and the distance is short of his best but can feature in the placings

Singapore

BRIGGS makes his Singapore debut in the Open Maiden 1000m Polytrack event – Race 2 @ 4.30pm NZT with Jake Baylis to ride. A strapping long striding galloper this son of Rubick has had two Singapore trials for a win and a head bobbing 2^nd – meets a field here that is not overly strong but has a slightly trick draw to contend with from the 1000m start –  represents a very strong each way chance and can win this.

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club tipsters say about this race

1st Pick: LUCKY CHARM (10)
Far from disgraced in first run at the grade over 1100m. Blinker on first time this weekend, should take natural improvement and be hard to beat.
2nd Pick: BRIGGS (1)
One seen once at the trials ahead of Singapore debut. Led the field up and was nabbed on the line late but he wasn’t asked for too much late in the trial by the rider. Should get a good guide on this horse’s ability here.
3rd Pick: KINABALU PRINCE (3)
Last start third was a decent performance. Draw a slight concern but he looks among the hopes.
4th Pick: GREAT COMMAND (2)
Back to 1000m looks ideal for this speedster. Third up we should see him peak fitness wise but he may have to work a bit early from the wide draw to find the top. Keep safe.

ENTERTAINER runs in the Class 3 1000m Polytrack event – Race 4 at 2pm Singapore time (6pm NZT) – will be ridden from a handy draw by leading Singapore Apprentice Fadzli Yusoff – a 7 time winner in Singapore, he has been an enigmatic performer in 2022, being badly out of form, but gear changes last start saw him run a close up 2^nd – has not won at this trip and may be looking for further, but hard to discount and can easily run in the money here

KING ARTHUR contests the Class 1 1100m Poly event – Race 9 @  4pm Singapore time (8pm NZT) – will be ridden from gate  3 by leading  Singapore Apprentice Fadzli Yusoff – the most improved horse in Singapore in 2022 having gone from a rating of 62 to 102 currently. Resuming from a freshen up after his bold 2^nd in the Group One Lion City Cup 18^thAugust. May need this run as his prime target is the Class 1 1200 Turf 2^nd October and is giving a lot of weight to some handy gallopers – but don’t discount as is always a winning chance

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club tipsters say about this race

1st Pick: LUCKY JINSHA (6)
Returned to the trials in a big way clocking an impressive 58.91. He has risen through the ratings since joining the stable and looks to have plenty of support this weekend. Gets in well with Hakim and a light weight.
2nd Pick: KING ARTHUR (2)
Was a very brave second in the G1 Lion City Cup being beaten just under a length to Lim’s Kosciuszko. He gets back to the Polytrack where he has recorded six of his eight wins.
3rd Pick: SURPASS NATURAL (3)
He is unbeaten over this course and distance and returns first up since April of last year. May need the run but is a classy galloper when he is right. Four-kilogram claimer booked to ride.
4th Pick: KHARISMA (1)
Joint top-rated galloper in this field. Although his form hasn’t been great at his last few attempts. His best performances can see him bounce back. Form is temporary, class is permanent.

Tuesday  13^th September

Madame Moet (O Bosson) worked over an easy 1000 metres, home in 41.80.

Wednesday 15th September

Leaderboard (C Grylls) worked together over an easy 1200 metres, home in 41.33.

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday  10th September

Kermajack (Jerlyn) – 600 38.5; King Arthur (Yusoff) – 1000/600 39; Brutus (Yusoff) – 1000/600 38; Entertainer (Yusoff) – 1000/600 39;; Briggs (Aslam) – 1000/600 37; Our Final Offer (Aslam) – Steady 40; Hadeer (Jake) – 1000/600 39;

Tuesday  13th September

King Arthur (Yusoff) – 800/600 40; Deception (Simon Kok) – 1000/600 38

Queen Elizabeth II, probably the world’s greatest cheerleader for thoroughbred racing is no longer with us and we mourn her passing

Our late Queen was truly passionate about her racing – she would often astound the “experts with her in depth knowledge of pedigrees and she would always put in a call to her Trainers before any one of her runners competed to get the “oil”. A famous story about her was that on one occasion, a policeman standing guard outside her drawing room at Buckingham Palace had to burst into the room because he could hear the Queen screaming and thought she was being attacked, only to find that she was screaming at the TV as she was watching one of her runners compete.

Her Majesty won four of the five Classic races on the Great Britain Racing Calendar, the 1000 Guineas, the 2000 Guineas, the Oaks and the St Leger – sadly she didn’t ever win the 5^th, the Derby, but did manage to run a 2^nd and a 3^rd in that great race.

Click HERE to see the Queen’s reaction to her horse Estimate winning the 2013 Ascot Gold Cup – those of us who have had the privilege to win great races (or indeed any race) will identify with the pure joy exhibited by the Queen on this occasion.

Amazingly, the late Queen had her last winner on Tuesday 6^th of September, the day she swore in Liz Truss as the new Prime Minister and just two days before her death. Throughout her long life, she enjoyed winning more than 1800 races as an Owner or Breeder.

Everyone in racing loves a good omen and in a week where the United Kingdom crowns a new monarch – King Charles III – Singapore’s most improved horse – King Arthur – is hoping to continue his royal run of form in Saturday’s $100,000 Class 1 race over 1100m on the Polytrack. Remarkably, the now five-year-old started this season off a rating of 62 when he won in Class 4 Company on January 2, before being narrowly beaten (0.8 lengths) at his last start in the Group 1 Lion City Cup (1200m). Then, his rating increased to 102. That ascent to the top echelon of the Singapore sprinting ranks in one calendar year included another five wins and a couple of placings. Trainer Donna Logan reckons the honest King Arthur has more to offer before the 2022 season comes to a close.

Indeed, since his last Polytrack win in a Class 3 race on May 8, the Fortuna NZ Racing Stable star has shown his class at the top level with three exceptional turf runs; two wins at Class 2 and Class 1 company on 18 June and 17 July respectively, and his second placing at Group 1 level on August 14. This Saturday, he meets a field that includes the resuming Lucky Jinsha – who incidentally won in Class 3 company on the Polytrack (April 2) when King Arthur missed a place (fourth) for the only time in 2022 – so it will be a serious test for the son of I Am Invincible.

“There’s not many races for him coming up so this will be a real pipe-opener fresh after the Lion City (Cup),” explained Logan. “He’s always trying and he’s super honest but he’s not 100% wound up for this. So whatever happens, this race will bring him on immensely. There’s a turf race on October 2 (Class 1 race over 1200m) and that’s where he’s headed. He’s up in the weights now (59kgs on Saturday) so (apprentice jockey) Yusoff (Fadzli) will claim 2kgs off him and a lot will depend on the barrier draw (on Wednesday). But he will give his best; he always does.”

And what of that ‘oh-so-close’ run in the Lion City Cup? “I really expected him to be right in the money in that race,” continued Logan of what would have been a remarkable victory at Group 1 Weight-For-Age level given King Arthur’s swift rise through the grades. “Maybe if (jockey) Blake (Shinn) had ridden him before he may have gone a fraction later but it’s hard to fault him (Shinn). The winner (Lim’s Kosciuszko) is a top horse and we almost pinched it. He (King Arthur) will get another chance next year – we are already preparing and looking forward to it – and hopefully he can go one better.”

Logan – who is enjoying a breakout season in Singapore and currently sits just two wins behind leader Tim Fitzsimmons (47 wins) on the 2022 trainers’ premiership – has another nine horses entered for Saturday but also has one eye on turf racing returning the following week.

“A lot of our horses seem to prefer the turf so we can’t wait for the 24th (September), but in saying that, we have some solid chances on Saturday,” she said. Briggs (running in the $20,000 Maiden race over 1000m) is an interesting runner. He’s been here just over a year but got an injury very early when he was with (ex-Kranji trainer) Mark (Walker). So it’s good to see him get to the races. He’s a nice, strong and big striding type, so (jockey) Jake (Bayliss) will ride him and he should be thereabouts.”

Of the trainers’ title race, Logan had other things on her mind but was happy to be in the conversation. “Look, I’m rapt for the team as they put in the work and its just rewards for them,” said the only female trainer plying her trade at Kranji. But if it happens, it happens and I’m not living day-to-day thinking about it. At the end of the day, it may be whoever gets some fresh legs in their stable before the season finishes and we just continue doing our job.”

Fortuna acquires a Lonhro two-year-old filly at the recent Magic Million online sale –  all of her shares fully committed within three hours of being promoted by us

Readers who read our Breaking News update last Monday morning would be aware of the “back story” to this acquisition – how we were outbid for her at the Magic Millions Yearling Sale in June and then due to a bizarre set of circumstances, she was re-offered at last weeks Magic Millions online Sale and this time we were successful. Within 3 hours of the update going out, all of her shares were fully committed and since then I have added another 75% to the “reserve list”  so in fact we could have sold her twice almost!!!

“Ebony” is a lovely physical type with a great pedigree page and we look forward to seeing what she can do on the racetrack – she arrives in NZ on the 18^th September. We have made a list of those clients who have missed out on getting a share in her and when we acquire our next horse, that group of clients will be given priority

Des’ multi last week brought no joy – Here is what Des has to say this week:

Hi John and the Fortuna Team

Good punting!

Des runs  his very popular phone tipping line (you can access this by calling 0900 45459 – note this incurs a charge of $2.99 per minute) – this service has been active for over 25 years and covers all NZ gallops from 8am each race day).

Madame Moet wins for the 2^nd time at Matamata 7^th September

Te Akau Racing, once again, dominates at the annual NZ Horse of The Year Awards receiving 10 awards

Kevin Myers, who also trains for Fortuna, was awarded the prestigious Outstanding Contribution to Racing

Another Award worth mentioning was Michael McNab, who as well as being crowned Champion Jockey, was also awarded the much sought Jockey Of The Year Award

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Fortuna has two runners this weekend –  one in NZ and one in Singapore

New Zealand

KHAFEEF contests the R75 2000m event at Hastings – Race 1 at 11.50 pm and will be ridden by Ryan Elliot. This is his 2^nd start back since resuming at Hawera over 1600m, but striking an unsuitable heavy track on the day. Usually competitive in this sort of event and on a path toward the NZ Cup in November – query on Heavy track, but if handling it will be finishing off strongly at generous odds

Singapore

OLYMPIA contests the Class 5 1000 Poly event Saturday 10^th and will be ridden by Stable Apprentice, Fadzli Yusoff claiming 2kgs. A nice 3^rd last start after getting carted off the track on the turn and down the straight – loves this trip and almost always finishes in the money – Top 3 chance and can win

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday  6^th September

Mohawk Brave (C Grylls) worked over an easy 1000 metres, home in 42.3.

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday  3rd September

Kermajack (Jerlyn) – 600 39: Olympia (Jamil) – 1000/600 36.5; Entertainer (Yusoff) – 1000/600 39; Speedy Missile (Yusoff) – 1000/600 38.5; Trident (Jake Bayliss) – 800/600 37

Tuesday  7th September

Kermajack (Jerlyn) – 600 38.5; King Arthur (Yusoff) – 800/600 38.5;; Hadeer (Jake) – 800/600 41; Super Posh (Jake Bayliss) – 800/609 41;

Other News

Fortuna opened its 2022/23 NZ Season account with two winners on 3^rd September – RUBICON CROSSING at Wanganui and DANCARINA at Riccarton, recording 30 wins in total of the 2022 Calendar Year, equaling our 2021 total for the full year. See the stories below

Fortuna Racing’s Two Year Old Filly RUBICON CROSSING wins on debut Wanganui Jockey Club 3rd September

Fortuna Four Year Old Racemare DANCARINA makes it two career wins with a powerful performance at Riccarton 3rd September

Fortuna Racemare MADAME MOET wins at Matamata 7th September – her 2nd career win

Outstanding mare Probabeel has joined an elite club with her second successive New Zealand          Thoroughbred Horse of the Year Award. The now retired daughter of Savabeel, who is preparing for life as a broodmare, gained more than half of the 57 votes cast to retain her title. Probabeel again was named Horse of the Year at a function in Hamilton on Sunday evening and since the award was introduced in 1971 is the 10^th horse to be a multiple winner. Sunline took the title four times with Show Gate, Rough Habit, Xcellent, Seachange, Mufhasa, Mongolian Khan, Bonneval and Melody Belle the other dual winners.

Probabeel’s achievement headlined a stellar evening for the powerhouse Te Akau operation as she was also named Champion Middle-Distance performer and Imperatriz acknowledged as the Champion Three-Year-Old, Maven Belle the Champion Two-Year-Old and Belle En Rouge and Self Obsession were NZB Filly of the Year co-winners. While Te Akau’s equine stars were honoured, so too were key past and present staff members.

Former Head Trainer Jamie Richards, now plying his trade in Hong Kong, was the Trainer of the Year having won the 2021/22 premiership, Joe Kamaruddin claimed the Apprentices’ Premiership and Nicole Shailer, now in the employ of current Te Akau trainer Mark Walker, was the Stablehand of the Year.

“We finished up with 10 awards and it was really well run by New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing and everybody seemed to have a great night,” Te Akau chief David Ellis said. “I am incredibly proud of the whole Te Akau team, it was a very happy evening. We had a lot of our senior staff there and it was fantastic for them to see all of their hard work paying off. It’s not much fun working with horses at this time of the year when it’s cold and wet and they all do it because they love the horses. It was great for us all to get there together and celebrate.”

Kevin deliberately keeps a low profile and it was just great for me personally to see him receive this prestigious Award

Click HERE to see a “must watch” video clip of this remarkable horseman

For me this was a special moment – Michael has had a well documented up and down career, but some important personal decisions made a couple of years ago has seen him climb to the top of the tree. Michael rode Melody Belle to win two of her Group One successes with two of the most exuberant winning post celebrations you could ever hope to see – he also rode Leaderboard to win the NZ St Leger for us earlier this year – he is a great bloke and he is special to all of us here at Fortuna Racing

Click HERE to see Michael receiving his Jockey of The Year Award

Tardy out of the gates and slightly  over-racing aren’t excuses for the below expectation run by the “pick” El Attitude at Wanganui last week. Although he was the 4th quickest in the final sectionals there was little to enthuse over and while it’s always advisable never to drop our selections entirely next time  (we’ve had great follow ups in the past) I’d be taking  very light footsteps with this bloke for his pending engagements. For the record, while El Attitude, on the basis of its previous run at Woodville, was my value bet of the day at Wanganui  the corresponding value  bet at Riccarton on the same day  was Extrememiss who got the job done with real purpose for the 0900 line at 13 to one. Hopefully some of you prospered.

Good punting!

Des runs  his very popular phone tipping line (you can access this by calling 0900 45459 – note this incurs a charge of $2.99 per minute) – this service has been active for over 25 years and covers all NZ gallops from 8am each race day).

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