Fortuna Racings quality race mare SOPRANO SUPREME was on song again at Rotorua 9th April when putting in another dominant performance in taking out the Campbell Infrastructure Rating 74 2200m event. The winner of two of her previous three starts by a combined margin of over eight lengths, this time she was up in Grade, in Saturday Class and was without the benefit of an Apprentice rider’s claim. Away slightly awkwardly in the hands of Opie Bosson, she relaxed nicely in 5th position one out from the rail in the eight horse field. Continuing to travel nicely in the run, Opie was content to sit quiet, but at the 600m mark, he asked the Mare for an effort, she came into the race quickly, was on terms three wide with the leaders as they turned  for home and then sprinted to the line strongly, under a mainly hands and heels ride, to win with a two and a half length margin at the line in a time of 2.16.18 with Rising Storm in 2nd place

Click HERE to see race Video replay

Winning rider Opie Bosson was effusive in his praise after dismounting “She was going to win a long way out,” he said. “She relaxed beautifully, got into a nice position and I was quite confident from the winning post the first time around. I had the horse underneath me, gave her one backhander, and she’ll be a nice staying mare next year.”

“Soprano Supreme” – Win #3 Rotorua 9th April 2022 – Opie Bosson aboard

Trainer Mark Walker, was also quick to give praise “That was a really good win and she’s a progressive mare,” he said, “that was a big step up for her today, but she handled it with a lot of authority. David (Ellis) bought her quite cheaply at Karaka, she is out of a Zabeel mare, and she looks a cups quality mare next season with a bit more maturity on her. A race like the Waikato Cup (Gr. 2, 2400m) could be a good target, but in the meantime we may have a look at the Rotorua Cup on 14th May. Well done to John Galvin and his Fortuna Racing Ownership Team – that’s their 9th win in NZ so far in 2022”

Fortuna Director John Galvin was on track to celebrate the win with some of his Ownership Group “That was very exciting to watch, she traveled so well in the run and was beautifully ridden by Opie – she seems to be going places and big kudos to Jamie Richards who handled her so patiently during her 2yo and 3yo preparations. Well done to Mark Walker, who has only just stepped back into the Te Akau Head Training role, for training another Fortuna Syndicated horse to win, a habit he has been well used to over the years in both New Zealand and Singapore. Well done to David Ellis also for picking this Mare out for us at the 2019 sale – I specifically recall saying to him ‘please find me a filly that can develop into a Cups horse one day'”

SOPRANO SUPREME – winning post in her sights

Bred by Tim Harrison, Soprano Supreme was acquired by David Ellis on behalf of Fortuna Racing at the NZ Bloodstock 2019 Karaka Yearling Sale for $62,500 from the draft of Te Runga Stud.

She is raced by the Fortuna Soprano Supreme Syndicate, an Ownership group of 62 individuals from New Zealand, Singapore  and Hong Kong

Headline News;

NO ENVY wins for Fortuna Racing at Geelong Friday 1^st April
 
EMINENT – KATY O’BEEL Filly sells in 36 hours
 
Mark Walker collects a Group One win at  Awapuni 2^nd April on his first day back as Head Trainer NZ for Te Akau Racing
 
Fortuna has a quiet week with just one runner in New Zealand

New Zealand

SOPRANO SUPREME contests the R74 2200m at Rotorua Saturday – Race 4 @ 2.26pm. Three starts in 2022 for 2 emphatic wins , this talented staying mare is up in Grade for this event and Opie Bosson rides from a good barrier. Dominant winner this track 1950m last start, she is primed to feature again and is a strong each way chance in  this

Upcoming Trialists

Avondale 12th April – 2yo Filly INCA BELLE (Per Incanto – Belle Vie)

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday 5^th April

No Fortuna Timed trackwork today

Thursday 7^th April
Madame Moet (S Pillay) galloped over 1000 metres in 1.11.4, home in 42.6.

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday 2^nd April
Kermajack (Jamil) – 800/600 37

Tuesday 5^th April
Kermajack (Aiman) – 800/600 38; Briggs (Aslam) – 600 48; Elliot Ness (Aslam) 600 37;

Other News

Fortuna UK import NO ENVY wins his Maiden race at Geelong in Victoria 1st April
Published 2 April 2022

The Fortuna Racing four year old Gelding NO ENVY was sent out an odds on favourite  by punters in the Maiden 2455m event at Geelong in Victoria Friday 1st April and the horse didn’t disappoint them. Drawn the outside barrier in the eight horse field, jockey Damien Thornton allowed him to stride forward in the run down the straight for the first time, and slotted in nicely one out and one back. Traveling nicely in the run, Thornton asked for an effort before the turn, NO ENVY responded nicely, hit the front as they turned, fought off any challengers and went to the line winning by a four and a half length margin.

Click HERE to see race Video replay.

NO ENVY was having just his 3rd race day start – he had run 2nd on debut at Ascot in the UK in October 2021 when trained by Andrew Balding – he was then offered for sale and was aquired by Fortuna Racing/De Burgh Equine and shipped to Australia.  He is now trained at Pinecliff in Victoria by the father and son team of Anthony and Sam Freedman and is the first horse trained by them for Fortuna Racing and was having his 2nd start for them after running 6th at his Aus debut over 1950 meters 3rd March. NO ENVY who carries the stable name “Felix” is by Lope De Vega out of Purple Pearl (Danehill Dancer) and has a very stout staying pedigree.

Sam Freedman was a satisfied handler after the race “NO ENVY was very good today, he jumped away well, Damien got him into a nice spot, he relaxed well in the run and produced a strong staying effort that was too strong for the opposition. The field was not strong today, but this horse clearly is a dead set stayer who will only improve with racing and more distance. Well done to John Galvin and his Fortuna Racing ownership team – NO ENVY is the first horse they have given us and Anthony and I are very pleased to have him in our Stable.”

Fortuna Director John Galvin, watching from his home in Hamilton, New Zealand, was also a very happy man, “That was special today – while the Stable were confident that he was going to run well and the market saw it that way as well, it is always good to get the job done with one of these imports, particularly one we had given to a new stable in Australia to prepare for us. It was a lovely ride by Damien Thornton and hats off to Anthony/Sam and their team for getting to know this horse so well – well done to all of the Fortuna clients who have taken shares in him. He was a very popular offering – and a big thank you to our International agent, Hubie De Burgh, who did such a great job selecting this horse for us”

NO ENVY who was bred by Stone Roses Bloodstock and was acquired at the Tattersalls Horses In Training Sale in October 2021 by Deburgh Equine/ Fortuna Racing for 85,000 Guineas 

He is raced by the Fortuna No Envy Syndicate, an ownership group of 63 individuals from New Zealand and Australia

EMINENT – KATY O’BEEL Filly sells out in 30 hours
 
An amazing outcome for this Filly that we had purchased from Karaka Book 2 Sale  – on Monday morning we published our “breaking news” update giving her details and by lunchtime on Tuesday, she was fully committed – a big thank you to our Clients who responded so promptly to this offering

Mark Walker collects a Group One win at  Awapuni 2^nd April on his first day back as Head Trainer NZ for Te Akau Racing

Here below is a story from the Te Akau website on Mark’s background

With Mark Walker returning to his old stomping ground we take a look back at his history with Te Akau. Mark is a world-class horse trainer, with five Champion Trainer titles in New Zealand, and four Champion Trainer titles in Singapore – most recently last year (2021). Walker joined Te Akau Racing straight from school and rose to the heights of top-class thoroughbred trainer, capable of making his mark in any racing jurisdiction worldwide.
An outstanding horseman, Walker led the way among New Zealand horse trainers, dominating New Zealand racing in the decade to 2010, when he transferred to set up Te Akau Racing Stables in Singapore. Results speak volumes for both his talent and ability to lead a team.
He won five New Zealand Trainers’ Premierships in seven years and in the 2009/10 season won the Premiership with 108 wins (28 more than the closest rival).  This was a new benchmark for wins in a season, eclipsing the previous seventeen-year-old record. During his first tenure at the Te Akau New Zealand helm he trained 858 winners, including 88 stakes’ winners, and has over 20 Group 1 wins to his credit.  He still holds the New Zealand record for two-year-old winners in a season.
In November 2018, Mark recorded his 500^th win in Singapore when Elite Invincible provided a season highlight in $1.35m Group 1 Singapore Gold Cup and he registered over 1500 wins as a trainer, and holds the record for wins in a Singapore season.
Away from training horses, Mark enjoys farming and take a keen interest in economics. He resides in Matamata with his partner Mirka and has three children.

BACKGROUND:

Like Kiwi trainer Chris Waller, who grew up in Foxton before becoming a star in Australia, Walker also arose from somewhat ‘obscure beginnings’ growing up on a dairy farm in Rahotu, about 30 minutes from Opunake.   It was a Shetland pony named ‘Mac’ that provided his introduction to horses and he joined the Opunake Pony Club, becoming a very talented show-jumping and eventing competitor between the ages of seven and 17.

Mark Walker has worked for David Ellis CNZM since leaving high school and is now his business partner. Armed with his CV, Walker walked up the driveway at Te Akau Stud and asked David Ellis for a job. Although there were no vacancies at the time, David took the time to read through the CV and promptly hired Walker – the rest, as they say, is history. Ellis freely admits that apart from marrying Karyn (Fenton-Ellis MNZM), employing Mark Walker is the best decision he has ever made.

Here’s just a sample of his unmissable stats:  

Mark commenced training in the 1998/99 season. His first win came on 8 August 1998 at Te Rapa in Hamilton when Galaxy Lover won a hurdle race.
Mark’s first Group 1 win was with Maroofity in the Ellerslie Sires’ Produce Stakes (1200m) in 2003.
He won the “Newcomer to Training” Award at the official NZTR Annual Racing Awards, during his first season as a trainer in 1998-99.
He was voted “NZ Trainer of the Year” four times at the official NZTR Annual Racing Awards – 2003-04, 2005-06, 2006/07 and 2008/09.

Youngest ever recipient of the “NZ Trainer of the Year” award when he first won the title as a 31 year old during season 2003-04.
In 2007-08 broke the NZ record for the highest number of 2YO wins in a season, winning 23 juvenile events with 16 individual 2YOs.
In 2007-08 became the first ever trainer to win the prestigious NZ Bloodstock Filly of the Year title for three consecutive years with Shikoba in 2005-06, Princess Coup in 2006-07 and Insouciant in 2007-08.
In 2007-08 was the first trainer to win NZ’s first ever $2million race, the Kelt Capital Stakes, in which he went on to record back to back wins after Princess Coup’s second consecutive victory in 2008-09.
In 2008-09 won the South Island’s first ever $1 million race, the Group 1 NZ 2000 Guineas with Fortuna Racing’s Tell a Tale.
In 2008-09 Te Akau established a new New Zealand record for domestic stakes’ earnings in one season – $3.71 million.
In 2009-10 established a new New Zealand all time record for wins in a season – 108 (previous record 104).

Please join us in welcoming Mark Walker back to New Zealand! We can’t wait for the future!

Guest Selector
 
Yes, our new Guest Selector, Des Coppins, got off to a great start last week, tipping out Hong Kong at Awapuni – here is what Des is recommending this week

“It was great to start off on the right foot with my “early bird” bet for Fortuna’s Friday Flash readers with Hong Kong last Saturday on the big day at Awapuni. The ease of the win didn’t surprise me – he’s most certainly a likely Cups candidate next season – but it was amazing to see where his price ended around $2.80 after we were able to grab $4.50 briefly at one stage.

The attention this Saturday focuses on Rotorua and there’s one I like at big odds, North of Havana, in race 7. She had a brief let up after showing form in December and January when she beat the highly promising Te Akau runner, Felicienne by more than 3 lengths at Tauranga. At her last start she was taken back from a wide draw and was left a little flat footed.  Her best performance was finishing 4th  to subsequent black type Trentham winner, Bankers Choice, at Ellerslie in the Stella Artois 1500 Championship Final, who since then has run an absolute “blinder” in the rich Doncaster Mile at Randwick on Saturday. Second behind Bankers Choice that was day was the impressive Tauranga winner last week, Carolina Reaper, while third in the event was Sindicato, who is now in the stable of Chris Waller. She’s the type who can act on any type of ground. Her price of $14 and $3.70 is over the odds on my chart.”

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).

Fortuna Shares for Sale

We have shares in two horses currently on our website – the proven two win Irish bred staying type MILESTONE, whom we have acquired to specifically contest the 2 Mile Cups races in the coming season and the Karaka Yearling, the Merchant Navy Colt “Salty”

MILESTONE, who had been agisting at Phoenix Park near Cambridge since arriving in NZ early March, has now travelled to Catherine Cleghorne’s property at Waiuku Beach, where he will undergo 6 weeks of pre-traing in the beach environment before transferring to the care of Mark Walker at Matamata

“Salty” is now 3 weeks into his breaking in programme and is handling everything with aplomb – this fellow has been labelled as a “get up and go Two Year Old type”

Not a lot of shares left, but both of these offerings can be viewed on the Fortuna website HERE

The Fortuna Racing four year old Gelding NO ENVY was sent out an odds on favourite  by punters in the Maiden 2455m event at Geelong in Victoria Friday 1st April and the horse didn’t disappoint them. Drawn the outside barrier in the eight horse field, jockey Damien Thornton allowed him to stride forward in the run down the straight for the first time, and slotted in nicely one out and one back. Traveling nicely in the run, Thornton asked for an effort before the turn, NO ENVY responded nicely, hit the front as they turned, fought off any challengers and went to the line winning by a four and a half length margin.

Click HERE to see race Video replay.

NO ENVY was having just his 3rd race day start – he had run 2nd on debut at Ascot in the UK in October 2021 when trained by Andrew Balding – he was then offered for sale and was aquired by Fortuna Racing/De Burgh Equine and shipped to Australia.  He is now trained at Pinecliff in Victoria by the father and son team of Anthony and Sam Freedman and is the first horse trained by them for Fortuna Racing and was having his 2nd start for them after running 6th at his Aus debut over 1950 meters 3rd March. NO ENVY who carries the stable name “Felix” is by Lope De Vega out of Purple Pearl (Danehill Dancer) and has a very stout staying pedigree

Sam Freedman was a satisfied handler after the race “NO ENVY was very good today, he jumped away well, Damien got him into a nice spot, he relaxed well in the run and produced a strong staying effort that was too strong for the opposition. The field was not strong today, but this horse clearly is a dead set stayer who will only improve with racing and more distance. Well done to John Galvin and his Fortuna Racing ownership team – NO ENVY is the first horse they have given us and Anthony and I are very pleased to have him in our Stable.”

WITHOUT ENVY – Maiden Win – Geelong 1 April – Damien Thornton aboard

Fortuna Director John Galvin, watching from his home in Hamilton, New Zealand, was also a very happy man, “That was special today – while the Stable were confident that he was going to run well and the market saw it that way as well, it is always good to get the job done with one of these imports, particularly one we had given to a new stable in Australia to prepare for us. It was a lovely ride by Damien Thornton and hats off to Anthony/Sam and their team for getting to know this horse so well – well done to all of the Fortuna clients who have taken shares in him. He was a very popular offering – and a big thank you to our International agent, Hubie De Burgh, who did such a great job selecting this horse for us”

NO ENVY who was bred by Stone Roses Bloodstock and was acquired at the Tattersalls Horses In Training Sale in October 2021 by Deburgh Equine/ Fortuna Racing for 85,000 Guineas 

He is raced by the Fortuna No Envy Syndicate, an ownership group of 63 individuals from New Zealand and Australia

Headline News;

RAGAMUFFIN makes it back to back wins when winning at Matamata 30th March – see full story below

Fortuna Racing has now won 14 races so far in 2022, 8 in NZ from just 22 starts, 6 in Singapore – NZ Strike Rate 2.75 for Calendar year

Changing of the Guard at Te Akau Racing – one Champion Trainer departs, another returns

Fortuna has seven runners Friday and Saturday, one in Aus, one in NZ and five in Singapore

Australia
NO ENVY runs in the Maiden 2455m event at Geelong Friday 1^st April – Race 3 @ 4pm NZT. This Irish Bred 4yo made his Aus debut 3^rd March over 1850m and battled away for 6^th place after getting back in the run. Has continued to work well since, is very fit and will relish the step up in trip. To be ridden by Damian Thornton. Bred to stay all day, this trip suits – can feature in this

New Zealand
NAVALHA contests the R74 1400m at Avondale Saturday – Race 4 @ 2.18pm. Slow away at Ellerslie last start 1200m, he has been working well and getting lots of Barrier practise – Up in trip for the first time to 1400m, Te Akau Stable Apprentice Parmar Singh takes 3kgs off his back. Talented galloper as his two starts two wins at the start of his career attest, he needs to be taken on trust due to his tardiness at the start, but can feature if he gets away well.

Singapore
HIDDEN PROMISE is in the Class 5 1600 Polytrack – Race 6 @ 7.30pm NZ Time and will be ridden by Stable Apprentice, Jerlyn Seow from Barrier 11. Wide draw is tricky but finds Division 2 of this event and has in form apprentice taking 3kgs off his back. Needs some luck in the running, but is he gets it he is a good each way chance in this

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club team have to say about this race;

1st Pick: CROWN DANCING (3)
Narrowly defeated by Diamond Mine last start after finding the lead. A repeat performance wins this but could give Benny Woodworth his first win back in Singapore.
2nd Pick: FLYING YELLOW (7)
Another who came out of the race in behind Amore Amore who go no favors with how the race transpired. Could figure in the placings with a good run in transit.
3rd Pick: HIDDEN PROMISE (4)
Rider reported that his whip broke in the run and this didn’t help the chances of his horse. Happy to forgive as the two starts before were good from him.
4th Pick: BLITZ POWER (2)
Since her multiple wins, she hasn’t really caught the eye at the races. Her trial on Tuesday suggested she is well though, not tested but sticking with them throughout the 1000m gallop. Keeping her safe.

OLYMPIA runs in the Class 5 1100 Polytrack – Race 9 @ 9pm NZT – to be ridden by Ronnie Stewart. Still a Maiden, he disappointed last time after two good placings previous starts – can atone here and is a good place chance

ENTERTAINER contests the Kranji Stakes A 1000m Polytrack – the feature race of the day for S$100,000 – will be ridden by Harry Kasim from Barrier 1 – the winner of seven races at 1100m but has yet to win at this 1000m trip from two starts – has beaten most of this field at different times and represents a very strong each way chance here and can win

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club team have to say about this race;

1st Pick: CELAVI (1)
Trial suggests she is well after the most recent failure over 1100m. Stable have been patient and carefully selected good races for her and this looks one of those.
2nd Pick: SACRED GIFT (5)
Boasts a nice 1000m record with three wins and a second from seven attempts. Expecting another positive performance after the big win last start. Will most certainly get a hot tempo in the run to sit off and charge home late.
3rd Pick: DARC BOUNTY (4)
Another horse who not only caught the eye last start but is a four-time winner over the distance. Seems to be in a good patch of form now and could surprise as a danger here.
4th Pick: ENTERTAINER (2)
Seven from ten over the 1100m but has yet to break through over 1000m, funny how it works like that. Always needs to be kept safe because his best is good enough.

KING ARTHUR is in the Class 3 1200 Poly and will be ridden by Stable Apprentice F Yusoff from an outside barrier – one of the Stars in Singapore over recent months with 5 wins from last 8 starts, he meets another Star in Lucky Jinsha (5 wins from last 6 starts). Difficult draw but he has handled wide draws with aplomb before – Strong each way chance here.

HADEER is in the same race as King Arthur – a very consistent performer, his 4 Singapore wins have all come on the Turf, but was brave 2^nd on the Poly behind King Arthur this trip 13^th Feb – gets 3kg Claim courtesy of Stable Apprentice Jerlyn Seow – is a strong contender here and can run in the top 3 from his nice barrier draw

Here is what the Singapore Turf Club team have to say about this race;

1st Pick: LUCKY JINSHA (3)
Proved last start he is a freak doing it a both ends on the turf against a solid class 3 field. Gets back to the preferred surface and looks a massive hope against one of his toughest fields yet.
2nd Pick: KING ARTHUR (1)
Finally meets Lucky Jinsha on the 1200m poly to settle it once and for all. Unfortunately, we were denied this contest weeks ago due to Lucky Jinsha going lame but they are both primed and ready for a big run, bring it on.
3rd Pick: HADEER (2)
Was only a length of Jinsha last start and he is looking well at this stage in the preparation. The distance this weekend is perfect, only knock on him is the surface, yet to win on the poly.
4th Pick: PALETAS (9)
Was well off the leader Lucky Jinsha last start and by the winning post got within 1.8 lengths. Big run considering it was held up at a crucial stage turning for home.

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday 29th March

Leaderboard (R Khan) worked at three quarter pace over 1000 metres in 1.15, home in 44.9.

Thursday 31st March

Navalha (O Bosson)  worked at three quarter pace over 1000 metres in 1.12.4, home in 42.6.

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday 26th  March

King Arthur (Yusoff) – C, 1200/600 38; Olympia (Amirul) – 1000/600 37Hadeer (Amirul) – C, 1000/600 37;

Tuesday 2^9th March

Hadeer (Jerlyn) – 800/600 36; Kermajack (Jerlyn) – 800/600 37; Sunday (Jamil) – 800/600 38King Arthur (Aslam) – 1000/600 37; Olympia (Ronnie) – 800/600 37; Entertainer (Harry) – 800/600 37

Other News

Changing of the Guard at Te Akau Racing – one Champion Trainer departs, another returns

Yes, the day has come – on Wednesday, the 30^th of March Jamie Richards saddled his last three runners for Te Akau in race nine and one of them, the Fortuna syndicated Ragamuffin, got up and one in a race aptly called “Good Luck Hong Kong Bound Jamie Richards”. Jamie’s overall success as the Te Akau Head Trainer in recent years has been well documented, but to narrow it down and look at it from a Fortuna Racing perspective, I have done the stats and they are as follows

From 1 August 2018 to 30^th March 2022, Jamie sent out 143 runners for Fortuna and produced 46 winners at a Strike Rate of just 3.11 – quite incredible!!! 

All the very best in your new role in Hong Kong, Jamie.

And now with Jamie’s departure the attention turns to his very worthy replacement, the nine time Champion Trainer (5 in NZ, 4 in Singapore), Mark Walker. Mark’s first day as Head Trainer in his new stint is one of the bigger days on the NZ Racing Calendar, Sires Produce Stakes Day at Awapuni and as you would expect, Te Akau Racing has a “glamour” team in on the day – but, hey, no pressure Mark!!!!

Mark Walker trained his first winner for me (Kapsdan) in September 2003, so we have an association going back almost 20 years and while Mark and I have enjoyed many wins together in Singapore over the past decade or so, there is something really special about Mark’s return to his home country and I am sure he is going to continue to have continuing, ongoing success as he heads up the Training side of the very powerful Te Akau operation with the full support of David and Karyn

Des Coppin’s iconic Melbourne Cup Tour is back!!!

Yes, after a two year hiatus due to Covid, the “oldest teenager in Wellington” is champing at the bit to, once again, lead a big group of Racing Fans to participate in one of the great Carnivals of World Racing

While I have not personally been on one of these tours with Des, I know many who have, including many of our Fortuna clients and all report a fantastic time – see full details below – note there are two tour options, one a five day and one an eight day

Open the Full Tour Brochure with Itinerary and Costings HERE

If you are keen to participate and make a booking Click HERE to see the booking form and if you have any questions call or email the contact details on the brochure

New Innovation – Guest Selector

Yes, this will be a new weekly feature for the Fortuna “Friday Flash” and our Guest Selector is none other than the Editor of the “Original” Friday Flash from 1975 to 1988, Des Coppins – Des has been involved in racing for over 50 years, as a journalist, broadcaster, a current Board Member of the Wellington Racing Club and racing tipster – Des will be providing one or two tips for us each week in his role as our Guest Selector – see below his tip for this week

“ I have an early bird selection that I have a genuine feel for. In the Ricoh Premier (Race 3 at 2pm) on the big group one stage at Awapuni on Saturday, I like Hong Kong. It’s only his 6th start and the four year old gives me the impression that he will develop quickly and be a top rated stayer next season. He ran into a x-factor runner, The Fearless One at Trentham on Oaks Day last time in his first run beyond a mile (2200m) but he hit the line solidly enough to suggest he is spot on for Saturday on his home track. “

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 is a great service that I have used myself over the years and, amazingly, has been active for over 25 years and covers all NZ gallops from 8am each race day).

3yo Ragamuffin got the job done for Fortuna Racing at Matamata 30th April – our 14th win for 2022 – See story below

RAGAMUFFIN makes it 2 wins in a row with stirring win at Matamata 30th March

The Fortuna 3yo Gelding Ragamuffin (Belardo – Short Tale) produced a stirring winning performance when winning the Rating 65 1400m Event at Matamata yesterday in a fairy tale finish for the Fortuna Racing/Jamie Richards combination – fairy tale because it was the last race in which Jamie Richards runners were competing ahead of his hand over of the Te Akau Racing Stables Head Trainer role to Mark Walker ahead of his departure to Hong Kong and in a race aptly named “Good Luck Hong Kong Bound Jamie Richards”

Ragamuffin had won strongly at the trials in February at Te Rapa, before getting his nose down to beat stable-mate Pisco Sour (I Am Invincible) when resuming in Maiden 1200 metres on 2 March at Hastings. From barrier one, with three-kilo claiming Te Akau apprentice Niranjan Parmar aboard again, Ragamuffin travelled midfield inner from barrier one and produced big late bounds after seizing a rails run in the straight.

On footing that remained Dead5 throughout the ten race programme, Ragamuffin ran 1400 metres in 1:23.6, last 600m in 36.3, and paid $9.60 & $2.60 on NZ TAB tote.

Click HERE to see race replay

Trainer Jamie Richards was a little lost for words post race, but said “That was a great outcome – I had three runners in the race and they were all good chances, but Ragamuffin put his hand up with a strong progressive performance – he has always been a bit immature to date but to come out and win at 1400m backing up from a Maiden win is a really good sign – fantastic as well to get the win for Fohn Galvin and his Fortuna Racing Ownership team – John has been a great supporter of me and the Stable and we have had many successes together.”

“Ragamuffin”“ – Matamata 30th March 2022

Speaking on behalf of the owners, Fortuna Syndications director John Galvin said: “Fortuna has always had a great run at Matamata, and won many races over the years, but today is something really special and you couldn’t have written a better script. Watching the horse parade beforehand, I thought if we could get up and win the last race for Jamie (Richards) as a trainer in New Zealand that it would be very special.

“We’ve had a long association with David Ellis and Te Akau since 2007, when Mark Walker was training here at Matamata. That continued with Mark when Te Akau expanded to Singapore, and more recently with Jamie. Melody Belle came along and, of course, we all know her story of 14 Group 1 wins and dual Horse of the Year.

“It has been fantastic working with Jamie over the years and we are sorry to see him go. He is a young man in a hurry and has a fantastic opportunity to train in Hong Kong, and I’m sure that everyone involved in racing in New Zealand will be right behind him and eager for his success on the global stage.”

Ragamuffin returns to scale – Te Akau Appren tice Parmar Singh aboard

RAGAMUFFIN was acquired by David Ellis on behalf of Fortuna at the 2020 NZ Bloodstock Ready To Run Sale,  for $80,000, from the draft of Lilywhites Lodge and was bred by Paul Moroney and Catherine Bruggeman

Ragamuffin was strapped by Reece Trumper.

Headline News;
 
LEADERBOARD wins the time honoured NZ St Leger, a Listed Race, at Trentham 19^thMarch – see full story below
 
Fortuna Racing has now won 13 races so far in 2022 – 
 
Fortuna has five runners this weekend,  two in NZ and three in Singapore

New Zealand

KHAFEEF resumes in the Rating 65 1400m event at Hawera Friday 25^th March – Race 7 @ 3.47 pm. Jeetesh Mudhoo, claiming 3kgs, takes the mount. Unraced since early December due to a slight tendon strain, has made nice recovery with a strong performance at Levin jumpouts last week. A strong staying type, this trip will be too short for him, but he is really fresh and has a light weight too carry – should be storming home at the end

Soprano Supreme races at Tauherenikau in the Masterton Cup, a Rating 74 event over 2050 metres on Sunday 27^th March – Race 7 @ 3.38pm. She has had two very dominant wins in her last 3 starts. To be ridden by Joe Kamaruddin, claiming 1kg, who retains the ride after her last start win – we are on weather watch as significant rain is forecast and she will be scratched if track looks like it will be Heavy. If she does start, she will love the trip, is well weighted and would be a very good each way chance

Singapore

DECEPTION is in the Restricted Maiden 1600m Turf for S$75,000 prizemoney – Saturday 26^th March – Race 2 @ 5.30pm NZ Time and will be ridden by CC Wong from Barrier 7 in an 8 horse field.  Singapore starts to date have yielded 2 3rds and 3 2nds. Gets up to 1600m here which should suit. Has all the form credentials – is poised to break through and win here

Hers is what the Singapore Turf Club team have to say about this race;

1st Pick: DECEPTION (1)
Yet to miss a place in each of his career starts to date. Not far away from some handy winners and this looks his race to kick that maiden status.
2nd Pick: BINGO MASTER (3)
Was a strong runner up on a few occasions and steps up to the mile for the first time. Small field and at his best can be a multiples pick.
3rd Pick: SUNSET (4)
Has run third over the 1400m so you would assume the mile wouldn’t be out of reach. Nothing went right last start and willing to give another chance.
4th Pick: DABBLE (6)
Has the race experience to his name. Can show speed from the barriers but failed to show over shorter distances. Maybe the extra distance will suit.

COSMIC SANDS  races in the Class 4 1800  Race 5  @ 7pm NZT. Oscar Chavez takes the mount – this two time winner in Australia has been very disappointing in his 5 Singapore starts to date – a one paced staying type he gets 1800m here for the first time, blinkers are on and carries a featherweight. Hard to have on form but any rain would work in his favour

HIDDEN PROMISE is in the Class 5 1700m Polytrack – Race 8 @8.30pm NZT but is E1 and will need a scratching to get a start. Disappointed last start this grade 1600m after a good run expected – can make amends this time if he gets a start

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday 22nd March

Ragamuffin (H Durrant) worked at three quarter pace over 1000 metres in 1.05.7, home in 38.4.

Soprano Supreme (M Grylls) galloped over 1200 metres in 1.07.4, last 600 in 40.2.

Thursday 24th March

Soprano Supreme (O Bosson) galloped over 1000 metres in 1.13.8, home in 43.7.

Madam Moet (O Bosson) also galloped over 1000 metres in 1.13.8, home in 42.7.

Ragamuffin (A Gujar) over 1000 metres in 1.03.6, home in 38.9.

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday 19th  March

Kermajack (Jerlyn) – 600 44; Deception (CC Wong) – C, 1200/600 39;

Tuesday 22^nd March

King Arthur (Aslam) – 800/600 38; Entertainer (Jake) – 800/600 38; Hidden Promise (Amirul) – 800/600 37; Hadeer (Nunes) – 1000/600 35; Deception (CC Wong) – C, 1000/600 40;

Other News

LEADERBOARD wins the NZ St Leger at Trentham 19th March 2022

Published 20 March 2022

Relishing the increase in distance up to 2600m, Leaderboard (7 g Street Cry – Flower Fairy, by Dynaformer) was a decisive winner in the $60,000 Barneswood Farm New Zealand St Leger (Listed, 2600m) on Oaks Day at Trentham. Ending his autumn campaign last year with consecutive wins to 2400 metres and a strong winner over 2400 metres in Ireland, before being purchased, Leaderboard  (who carries the stable name “Tiger”) went winless in four starts during spring campaign from his Te Akau base at Riccarton, but included very good third in the New Zealand Cup (Gr. 3, 3200m).

At his previous start, Leaderboard finished fifth off handy trip in a Rating 74 2000 metres on 26 February at Matamata but increasing distance and a perfect ride by Michael McNab worked the oracle. From sixth outer, McNab sent Leaderboard into contention from 600m and he never flinched after leading inside final 300m to eventually score comfortably by one and a quarter lengths.

On Dead4 footing, Leaderboard ran the 2600 metres in 2:39.6 and held firm in betting to pay $10.20 & $3.10 on NZ TAB tote.

Click HERE to see the race replay

Leaderboard’s sire Street Cry (Machiavellian) also left Winx, Champion US mare Zenyatta, Kentucky Derby winner Street Sense, and Melbourne Cup winner Shocking, so stamina runs in the blood and Leaderboard has his share.

“Leaderboard” – Victorious NZ St Leger – Trentham 19 March 2022 – Michael McNab

“They went along at a genuine tempo and he outstayed them,” said trainer Jamie Richards after securing his first St Leger. “He was the best looking horse in the birdcage, with the best walk, but has had a bit of trouble with his feet, like some of those European horses can. But the team at home has done a great job with him and he was given a lovely ride by Michael McNab. I thought he may need a bit of easing in the ground, but he’s done it well there today. It’s just a shame we couldn’t get him right for the Wellington Cup (Gr. 1, 3200m) because he would have been a really good chance in a race like that. Congrats to John Galvin and his big team of owners – they have endured a series of setbacks this past few months, but they have been incredibly patient”
Asked whether Leaderboard could be around for Cups races next season, Richards said: “He has a very bright future as a jumper. He’s very good at that, so we’ll see what happens.”

Fortuna Director John Galvin was on course to watch his charge storm home and reported as follows post race “That was a Classic Stayers’s finish – we bought him at a Tattersalls sale to be a stayer – It’s a fantastic result for us as he represents a big syndicate of people from all over New Zealand and while most of the Ownership Group were unable to attend due to Covid restrictions and there was no birdcage cereonny for the same reason, the Wellington Racing Club was very kind to give us a presentation ceremony in the Owners room. It was a pretty good watch. He looked to be travelling well the whole race and very well rated by Michael McNab. When they turned in and he hit the front, I had visions of the New Zealand Cup where he did that and got run down. But this time he was able to hold on, and hold on very well”
“It has been a long time between drinks since his last win and were all very disppointed that he was unable to contest the Wellington Cup due to a stone bruise, however Jamie then set him for this race, and so it is a very nice consolation prize – well done to Jamie and his staff for doing such a nice job with this horse”

John Galvin acquired Leaderboard at the Tattersalls Horses in Training sale in October 2018 for 70,000 Guineas and was ably assisted in this process by the International Bloodstock Agent Hubie DeBurgh. He has started 21 times in NZ for 5 wins and accumulated NZ$125,000 in Stakes for his Ownership Group,  the Fortuna Leaderboard Syndicate comprising 72 individuals.

Leaderboard was strapped at Trentham by Lydia Truesdale

Fortuna Shares for Sale

We have shares in three horses currently on our website – the proven two win Irish bred staying type MILESTONE, whom we have acquired to specifically contest the 2 Mile Cups races in the coming season, the Yearling Merchant Navy Filly “ZOI” whom we acquired at the Inglis Premier Sale in Melbourne and the Karaka Yearling, the Merchant Navy Colt “Salty”

Mark Walker inspected MILESTONE on Tuesday 22^nd March – this was the first time that Mark had actually seen him “in the flesh” – Mark was suitably impressed with what he saw – Click HERE to see MILESTONE parading with voiceover from Mark

All of these offerings can be viewed on the Fortuna website HERE

Relishing the increase in distance up to 2600m, Leaderboard (7 g Street Cry – Flower Fairy, by Dynaformer) was a decisive winner in the $60,000 Barneswood Farm New Zealand St Leger (Listed, 2600m) on Oaks Day at Trentham.

Ending his autumn campaign last year with consecutive wins to 2400 metres and a strong winner over 2400 metres in Ireland, before being purchased, Leaderboard  (who carries the stable name “Tiger”) went winless in four starts during spring campaign from his Te Akau base at Riccarton, but included very good third in the New Zealand Cup (Gr. 3, 3200m).

At his previous start, Leaderboard finished fifth off handy trip in a Rating 74 2000 metres on 26 February at Matamata but increasing distance and a perfect ride by Michael McNab worked the oracle.

From sixth outer, McNab sent Leaderboard into contention from 600m and he never flinched after leading inside final 300m to eventually score comfortably by one and a quarter lengths.

On Dead4 footing, Leaderboard ran the 2600 metres in 2:39.6 and held firm in betting to pay $10.20 & $3.10 on NZ TAB tote.

Click HERE to see the race replay

Leaderboard’s sire Street Cry (Machiavellian) also left Winx, Champion US mare Zenyatta, Kentucky Derby winner Street Sense, and Melbourne Cup winner Shocking, so stamina runs in the blood and Leaderboard has his share.

“Leaderboard” – Victorious NZ St Leger – Trentham 19 March 2022 – Michael McNab

“They went along at a genuine tempo and he outstayed them,” said trainer Jamie Richards after securing his first St Leger. “He was the best looking horse in the birdcage, with the best walk, but has had a bit of trouble with his feet, like some of those European horses can. But the team at home has done a great job with him and he was given a lovely ride by Michael McNab. I thought he may need a bit of easing in the ground, but he’s done it well there today. It’s just a shame we couldn’t get him right for the Wellington Cup (Gr. 1, 3200m) because he would have been a really good chance in a race like that. Congrats to John Galvin and his big team of owners – they have endured a series of setbacks this past few months, but they have been incredibly patient”

Asked whether Leaderboard could be around for Cups races next season, Richards said: “He has a very bright future as a jumper. He’s very good at that, so we’ll see what happens.”

Fortuna Director John Galvin was on course to watch his charge storm home and reported as follows post race “That was a Classic Stayers’s finish – we bought him at a Tattersalls sale to be a stayer – It’s a fantastic result for us as he represents a big syndicate of people from all over New Zealand and while most of the Ownership Group were unable to attend due to Covid restrictions and there was no birdcage cereonny for the same reason, the Wellington Racing Club was very kind to give us a presentation ceremony in the Owners room. It was a pretty good watch. He looked to be travelling well the whole race and very well rated by Michael McNab. When they turned in and he hit the front, I had visions of the New Zealand Cup where he did that and got run down. But this time he was able to hold on, and hold on very well”

“It has been a long time between drinks since his last win and were all very disppointed that he was unable to contest the Wellington Cup due to a stone bruise, however Jamie then set him for this race, and so it is a very nice consolation prize – well done to Jamie and his staff for doing such a nice job with this horse”

John Galvin acquired Leaderboard at the Tattersalls Horses in Training sale in October 2018 for 70,000 Guineas and was ably assisted in this process by the International Bloodstock Agent Hubie DeBurgh. He has started 21 times in NZ for 5 wins and accumulated NZ$125,000 in Stakes for his Ownership Group,  the Fortuna Leaderboard Syndicate comprising 72 individuals.

Leaderboard was strapped at Trentham by Lydia Truesdale

Headline News;

BRUTUS wins again in Singapore – giving Fortuna Racing its 12^th victory in 2022 – read more below

MOHAWK BRAVE chases Group One honours in the Levin Classic at Trentham on Saturday – more below

Fortuna has four runners this Saturday,  two in NZ and two in Singapore

New Zealand

Leaderboard races in the time honoured NZ St Leger – Race 3 @ 2.19pm – Ryan Elliot to ride. Battling runs of late over shorter trips – up to 2600m here will help – needs a shower or two to be at his best and if that arrives, he is a chance in this

MOHAWK BRAVE  contests the Group One Levin Classic 1600m – Race 6 @ 3.33 with Craig Grylls in the saddle  – has shown great form since winning on debut in late October, winning 3 of his 4 races. Draws nicely here in 3, but meets a hot, in form field with On The Bubbles, Imperatriz and Shamus as worthy contestants. Will get a soft run from the draw – definite place chance and a win would not surprise

Singapore

COSMIC SANDS  races in the Class 4 1600  Race 3 @ 6pm NZT. Jerlyn Seow claiming 3kgs takes the mount – this two time winner in Australia has been very disappointing in his 4 Singapore starts to date – a one paced staying type, he gets 1600m here for the first time, blinkers are on and carries a featherweight. Race tactics are to try and lead with an expectation that the trip, the blinkers and light weight will all add to his chances.Hard to have on form

ENTERTAINER  is in the Class 1 1200m Turf but is Ballot 1 and is unlikely to get a start. He has won 7 times at 1100m Polytrack, but did disappoint last start when well beaten. If he does get a start, he meets a very strong field at 1200m on Turf, a task that may be beyond him – no rider fixed

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday 15th March
Mohawk Brave (N Parmar) worked in company over 1000 metres in 1.04.2, home in 37.1

Thursday 17th March

No timed Fortuna Trackwork today

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday 12th  March

Entertainer (Harry) – C, 1000/600 37.5; Kermajack (Jerlyn)– C, 600 42.5;

Other News

BRUTUS makes it 5 Career wins in Singapore with a stylish all the way victory

5yo Gelding BRUTUS (Rubick – Harvest Queen), who is enjoying a purple patch of form, was too strong for his rivals in the Class 4 1200m Turf event at Singapore’s Kranji Racetrack Sunday 13th March. Given the slightly awkward draw of Barrier 9 in a field of 12 runners, the former Singapore Champion Jockey and current Premiership Leader, Manoel Nunes, took any risk out of the equation by getting Brutus away well and going straight to the lead. Cleverly giving the horse a breather mid race, Nunes then asked him for an effort after turning, established a break on the opposition and while the closers were gaining ground, Brutus went to the line half a length clear in the time of 1.10.25 for the 1200m trip. This was Brutus 5th win in Singapore and, remarkably, his 4th from just his last seven starts. Brutus win brought up the 6th win in 2022 to date for the Fortuna NZ Stable and Te Akau Racing Trainer Donna Logan’s 9^th for 2022 to date

 Click HERE to see the race replay

Trainer, Donna Logan, was a happy gal post race “That was poetry in motion  – Brutus is at the top of his game, running in great form and he was beautifully ridden by Nunes. I am over the moon for John Galvin and his Fortuna Ownership team, they had a couple of unlucky 2nds earlier in the programme, so it was great to see them get this win”

 BRUTUS – 5th Win in Singapore 13th March 2022

Fortuna Director, John  Galvin, watching from his home in New Zealand, was also elated “That was very sweet to watch – I was confident that if Manny could get Brutus away well, he would be very competitive and so it proved – a lovely well judged ride certainly helped – well done to Donna and her team also – they have been under the pump of late with significant staff shortages due to Covid, so to get two winners on the day is an exceptional result”

Trainer Donna Logan and jockey, Manoel Nunes, post race