Acquired from the February Inglis Digital Sale, MILESTONE is a two win 6yo Gelding who excels at Staying trips – a winner in France over 2400m before being exported to Victoria, his recent form there has included a win at Moe over 2400m and a close up 2nd at Moonee Valley over 3000m

Lightly raced with just 24 career starts, MILESTONE travels to NZ 17th February and will have a four week paddock spell ahead of a preparation aimed at the NZ Cup at Riccaron in November and the Wellington Cup at Trentham in January 2023

This horse will be syndicated by Fortuna to its clients and the general public – Syndicate paperwork still being prepared but shares will be available down to 1% and we are taking expressions of interest  – $8,000 per 10% share, $4,000 per 5% shares, $2,000 per 2.5 share, $800 per 1% share all inclusive of GST, Fees,  Freight to NZ, Insurance and working capital

Ongoing costs start 1 April 2022 at $40 per month per each 1% share

Click HERE to listen to Fortuna Trainer, Mark Walker, talking about this horse

Click HERE to see Milestone winning in Victoria 17th Dec 2021

Click HERE to see Milestone running 2nd over 3000m at Moonee Valley in 31st Dec 2021

Click to see Pedigree 5.Pedigree – by Mastercraftsman out of a winning Galileo Mare, this fellow is bred to stay all day

Contact John Galvin HERE to express interest

MILESTONE 11th February 2022

Lot 25 – the Yearling Filly by the Champion Stallion MORE THAN READY out of  LITEN PRINSESSA (by Bernadini) has been acquired by the David Ellis/Fortuna combination – with Mark Walker conducting background research.

She travels to NZ 17th February, will spell at Te Akau Stud ahead of being broken in

This horse will be syndicated by Fortuna to its clients and the general public – Syndicate paperwork still being prepared but shares will be available down to 1% and we are taking expressions of interest  – $12,000 per 10% share, $6,000 per 5% shares, $3,000 per 2.5 share, $1,200 per 1% share all inclusive of GST, Fees, Inglis Series Registration Fee, Freight to NZ, Insurance and working capital

Ongoing costs start 1 April 2022 at $40 per month per each 1% share

Click HERE to see this outstanding Filly parading

Click HERE to listen to Fortuna Trainer Mark Walker talk about this Filly

Click to see Pedigree 5.Pedigree – note this is the family of the Karaka Million winner Ruud Awakening

Contact John Galvin HERE to express interest

MORE THAN READY – LITEN PRINSESSA  Yearling Filly

Fortuna has four runners this week, one in NZ and three in Singapore

New Zealand
Leaderboard, a shock scratching from the Wellington Cup, is over his issues and contests the Taranaki Cup, over 2000m at Awapuni Friday 11^th February – Race 8 at 5.02pm – Joe Kamaruddin rides. He meets a very strong field here and has drawn the outside barrier in a field of 16 runners. An out and out stayer, he may find the trip a bit short for him, particularly at this class, however will be finding the line strongly – Rain is forecast which will assist – is at big odds and is a sneaky place chance if it does rain

Singapore
Hidden Promise contests the Class 5 1400 Turf on Sunday 13^th  – Race 7 @ 8pm and will be ridden by Stable Apprentice Jerlyn Seow claiming 3kgs. This veteran nine year old has won 7 times in Singapore at trips 1600m and above. Ran a strong finishing 4^th over 1200m last start and has good each way claims here in a weakish field

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

1st Pick: MILITARY CHAIRMAN (10)
Consistent of late in this grade and gets a senior rider aboard. Has to overcome a wide barrier but plenty of room to find a position and can surprise in a low-depth field.
2nd Pick: FIREWORKS (2)
Blinkers come off for this run after a fair run last start behind First Thief. Manoel Nunes jumps on for the ride and will be well supported.
3rd Pick: ATLANTEAN (7)
Bounced back to form with a strong placing and goes up one kilo from that run. Meets similar conditions here and can surprise again.
4th Pick: HIDDEN PROMISE (3)
Getting back to a journey where he performs better. Drawn nicely in barrier four and aided by apprentice claim. Probably the easiest field he has met for a while.

King Arthur races in the Class 3 1200m Polytrack event with CC Wong in the saddle – this horse has taken all before him of late winning three in a row at Class 4 level. Meets a very strong Class 3 field here and won’t find it easy. Has also drawn wide again, although has won his last two races in compelling fashion from similar draws. Good each way chance and can win with luck in the running

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

1st Pick: LUCKY JINSHA (10)
Last-start win and trial victory last week confirmed this horse is extremely progressive and is continuing to improve. In what looks a great Class 3 he has to be the pick.
2nd Pick: KING ARTHUR (7)
Another up into Class 3 and who has been winning a lot of late. Will be the speed influence in the race and will be in the right part of the track making his own luck upfront. Toughest test to-date but with some luck, he should be in the finish.
3rd Pick: SACRED GIFT (8)
Trialled in the fastest time we’ve seen for a while at Kranji going 58.81 for the 1000m. Rarely runs a bad one, therefore one has to consider him first-up as a place hope at least.
4th Pick: SONGGONG HERA (2)
Looks one of the class horses in the field. Form behind Lim’s Kosciuszko looking really strong, right in this with the right steer.

Hadeer also races in the Class 3 1200 Polytrack event. Like King Arthur, he is a 4 win horse in Singapore and has won at Class 3 level – Jerlyn Seow rides claiming 3kgs from an outside barrier. All his four wins have been on the Turf and so the Poly surface is a question mark this time – loves to lead and so if he can make the front is a chance of running in the money – surface is a query however

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday ^8th Feb

Ragamuffin (N Parmar) galloped over an easy 800 metres in 57, home 42.

Thursday ^10th  Feb

Hayate (A Jones) galloped over 800 metres, home in 37.7.

Navalha (O Bosson) worked at three quarter pace over 1000 metres 1.13.3, home in 43.7.
2g Darci Brahma – Ujjayyi (R Sheehan) worked at three quarter pace over 800, home in 43.

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Tuesday 8th Feb

Hadeer (Jerlyn) – 800/600 38; King Arthur (CC Wong) – 1000/600 38; Hidden Promise (Harry K) – C, 1000/600 38

Other News

Fortuna Shares for Sale

Now in full work and heading for a trial 8^th March – this strapping 2yo Gelding by Darci Brahma out of the winning Iffraaj Mare,  Ujjayyi is turning a few heads at the Matamata track

– Click HERE to see a Video Clip of “DB” parading 9^th Feb with voiceover from Jamie Richards

– still a few shares left at $1100 per each 1% and $40 per month from 1 April

Shares can be ordered online from the Fortuna website HERE

Contact John by email john@fortuna-nz.com if you require further information or call/text 021 921 460

The Fortuna Winners keep coming – 7 in total now for 2022 – 4 in Singapore and 3 in NZ – see the story on our latest winner, DANCARINA, below;

Fortuna Three Year Old Filly DANCARINA records her first race day win at Ruakaka 9th February

DANCARINA (the 3yo Filly by Sebring out of Dance For Me), sent out a $1.90 favourite by Punters, did not let her backers or connections down when producting a strong winning effort, in the hands of Opie Bosson, in the Bream Bay Maiden 1400m at Ruakaka 9th February. Having just her 2nd race day start after producing a fast finishing and close up 3rd placing at Matamata 12th January, DANCARINA was away quickly from her mid field draw and was part of a line of four horses all contesting for the lead. Rider Opie Bosson was content to let her slide forward to sit outside the leader however and traveling sweetly in the run, gathered in the leader on turning for home and set sail for the winning post, going to the line a length clear of 2nd placegetter, Destiny’s Girl.

Click HERE to see the race replay

Trainer, Jamie Richards, on course to watch his team of runners race, was quietly satisfied post race “She really deserved that win, she was great at Matamata on debut and she has been showing us a lot at home – she has been a slow maturing Filly who has had a few issues along the way, but we have taken our time with her and I am sure she has a lot more to give yet – lovely ride by Opie and well done to John Galvin and his Fortuna Team of Owners, they have been very patient”

 Dancarina – Victorious at Ruakaka 09 February 2022

Fortuna Director, John Galvin, watching from his Hamilton home, was also very pleased “That was great to watch – I was sure she would run well today off the back of her strong debut run at Matamata and so it proved. Her draw was slightly tricky, but Opie summed it up perfectly, he was happy to have her use up a bit of petrol early knowing that he had some horsepower under him – and well done to Jamie, this Filly has had him scratching his head a few times with some of her physical issues, but it has all come together of late”

DANCARINA was acquired by David Ellis on behalf of Fortuna at the 2020 Magic Millions Gold Coast January Sale for A$100,000 from the draft of Widden Stud. She is raced by the Fortuna Dancarina Syndicate, an ownership group comprising 60 individuals

DANCARINA (the 3yo Filly by Sebring out of Dance For Me), sent out a $1.90 favourite by Punters, did not let her backers or connections down when producting a strong winning effort, in the hands of Opie Bosson, in the Bream Bay Maiden 1400m at Ruakaka 9th February. Having just her 2nd race day start after producing a fast finishing and close up 3rd placing at Matamata 12th January, DANCARINA was away quickly from her mid field draw and was part of a line of four horses all contesting for the lead. Rider Opie Bosson was content to let her slide forward to sit outside the leader however and traveling sweetly in the run, gathered in the leader on turning for home and set sail for the winning post, going to the line a length clear of 2nd placegetter, Destiny’s Girl.

Click HERE to see the race replay

Trainer, Jamie Richards, on course to watch his team of runners race, was quietly satisfied post race “She really deserved that win, she was great at Matamata on debut and she has been showing us a lot at home – she has been a slow maturing Filly who has had a few issues along the way, but we have taken our time with her and I am sure she has a lot more to give yet – lovely ride by Opie and well done to John Galvin and his Fortuna Team of Owners, they have been very patient”

 Dancarina – Victorious at Ruakaka 09 February 2022

Fortuna Director, John Galvin, watching from his Hamilton home, was also very pleased “That was great to watch – I was sure she would run well today off the back of her strong debut run at Matamata and so it proved. Her draw was slightly tricky, but Opie summed it up perfectly, he was happy to have her use up a bit of petrol early knowing that he had some horsepower under him – and well done to Jamie, this Filly has had him scratching his head a few times with some of her physical issues, but it has all come together of late”

DANCARINA was acquired by David Ellis on behalf of Fortuna at the 2020 Magic Millions Gold Coast January Sale for A$100,000 from the draft of Widden Stud. She is raced by the Fortuna Dancarina Syndicate, an ownership group comprising 60 individuals

Fortuna has no runners in NZ this weekend and there is no racing in Singapore this Saturday, given that they held a Chinese New Year meeting on Wednesday of this week

However, Soprano Supreme and Dancarina will travel to the Ruakaka meeting next Wednesday 9^th – this meeting has been transferred from Matamata to allow its track to recover after a lot of recent racing.

And Leaderboard, who had to be scratched from the Wellington Cup, due to a foot abscess, is fully recovered and will race at Awapuni Friday 11^th in the Open 2000m event

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday ^1st  Feb

Soprano Supreme (J Kamaruddin) galloped at three-quarter pace over 1200 metres in 1.16, home in 46.
Dancarina (A Gujar) galloped at three-quarter pace over 1000 metres in 1.15.2, home 45.6.

Thursday 3^rd  Feb

Ragamuffin (R Khan) worked at three quarter pace over 800 metres in 1.00.4, home in 45.2.

Dancarina (A Gujar) and Soprano Supreme (J Kamaruddin) galloped over 1000 metres in 1.05.9, home in 36.6.

Fortuna Track work – Singapore

Saturday 29th Jan

Olympia (Aslam) – 800 37.5; Briggs (Jamil) – 800 45;

Tuesday 1^st Feb

Hadeer (Shafiq) – C, 1000/600 38; King Arthur (CC Wong) – 1000/600 37.5; Hidden Promise (Yusoff) – C, 1000/600 38;

Other News

Fortuna Shares for Sale

From the NZ Bloodstock November Ready to Run Sale

2yo Gelding by Darci Brahma out of the winning Iffraaj Mare,  Ujjayyi – this strapping 2yo is in work and will have his first trial early March – still a few shares left at $1100 per each 1% and $40 per month from 1 April

Shares can be ordered online from the Fortuna website HERE

Contact John by email john@fortuna-nz.com if you require further information or call/text 021 921 460

Secondary Market Opportunity – Polaris – the 3yo Gelding by Deep Field out of Miss Fi (by Makfi)

Polaris was acquired by David Ellis for Fortuna at the 2020 Karaka Sale – prepared in NZ by Jamie Richard, he was not ready to race as a 2yo, but had three very good placings in NZ as a 3yo, during the late spring/early summer. Following this, Jamie’s recommendation was that he would be ideal for Singapore as he had missed his 3yo age group opportunities and was not a “Derby” type. Also, in being a Maiden with less than 4 starts, he is eligible for the Restricted Maiden Grade in Singapore, a grade which carries S$75k as prizemoney. Polaris passed his in depth Singapore Turf Club Vet test with flying colours and flew to Singapore 20^th Jan, – he exits quarantine 5^th Feb and, all going well, he will make his Singapore debut in April in Restricted Maiden Grade for S$75k. The great majority of the Ownership Group were fully supportive of this move, but some Members have decided not to proceed and so a small percentage of the shares have become available. We had Polaris independently valued recently by Registered Bloodstock Valuer, Marcus Corban, who assessed his value  for the purpose of this share transfer at $50,000. Landed in Singapore with all transport and quarantine fees included, Insurance paid to 31 Jan 2023 and working capital account replenished, the all up cost of each 1% share is $720 for each 1% share and $36 per month from 1 March 2022. There are no Promoter Fees in this transaction

John comments “As readers would be aware, Fortuna has had significant success these past 3 years or so in acquiring “tried” horses for Singapore racing – effectively we have had no failures and many, many successes. Polaris with his trial and raceday form, fits squarely into this “tried horse” category and there is every reason to believe he can be very successful in Singapore – interestly, he has a very similar profile to Ronald’s Dream, who had 3 starts for 3 placings in NZ before going to Singapore and winning a Restricted Maiden on debut”

To participate contact John by email john@fortuna-nz.com or call/text 021 921 460

Another Fortuna Winner in Singapore

ENTERTAINER scores outstanding victory in Feature Race in Singapore

ENTERTAINER  (5yo Gelding by Zoustar out of Laughing) produced a scintillating display in winning the Class 2 1100m Polytrack event at Singapore’s Kranji racetrack 29th January. Ridden for the first time by the highly experienced Harry Kasim, ENTERTAINER (Stable name “Joker”) had a bit to prove. Although lodging six wins from seven starts at this trip and surface in 2021, a resuming run in Class 3 grade 8th January had seen him fade in the closing stages to finish 7th. Up to Class 2 for this race and facing much stronger competition, punters were happy to support more favoured chances and sent ENTERTAINER out at odds of 12 to 1. No one told the horse this of course and away well from the gates, he settled outside the girth of stable mate, Makkam Lad, while two other favoured runners, Celavi and Arrarat Lady were back in the field. Traveling sweetly in the run, Kasim had the horse relaxed and well held together – asked for more effort at about the 250m mark, ENTERTAINER drew away and went to the line a length clear of the fast finishing Lady Arrarat in a time of 1.04.39.

Click HERE to see the race replay

“Joker’s” win bought up three successive wins for Harry Kasim over the day – the popular rider who is well known in New Zealand, having had a riding stint there a few years ago, had endured a frustrating start to the new season with no winners up until yesterday so to score three in a row was a big thrill – “I had really enjoyed getting my first two winners” said Kasim post race, “but then I got onto Entertainer, my last ride and, cantering to the barriers, all of a sudden it felt so natural he would win too. He’s a nice horse and he jumped better than we thought, and we were able to get a good position. I was happy to just let him travel for me. At the top of the straight, I was confident I could get my third win. He showed a good turn of foot and I knew he would win at the 200m.”

Entertainer makes it 7 wins in Singapore – 29th January 2022

Trainer Donna Logan, who only took over the Head Trainer’s role for Te Akau Racing, replacing the departing  four time Singapore Champion Trainer, Mark Walker, was extremely proud of her charge “That was brilliant to watch – to be honest, I didn’t think he could win today, given the quality of the opposition, but Joker was just too big, too strong and had the last laugh  in the end. Super ride by Harry, but he had a big motor under him. Congrats to John Galvin and his big crew of Owners – the Fortuna Stable here in Singapore is absolutely flying”

Fortuna Boss, John Galvin, watching from his home in New Zealand, was over the moon with the outcome “I was up and out of my chair as they turned for home – Harry had him going so well and I just knew he would be hard to get past with him only carrying 50kgs. I had discounted his previous start as he had had a good blow after that race and I knew he would take a lot of improvement. He was racing out of his grade in Class 2 but his last win 30th October had been in that grade also, so I was quietly confident that he had a good chance of a repeat. Well done to Harry and I am rapt for Donna Logan – she has big shoes to fill in taking over the Te Akau operation from Mark Walker, but with five wins to date in the new season, she is off to a bright start”

Entertainer’s win made it 4 wins from 13 starts for the Fortuna NZ Racing Stable in Singapore in the 2022 season along with a 2nd, two 3rds and 3 4ths

Entertainer was acquired by Mark Walker on behalf of Fortuna at the Inglis Digital sale in December 2019 for A$20,000 – he has now won seven races from fifteen starts in Singapore and accumulated S$237,000 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 Singapore

Covid News

The latest news, of course is Thursday’s dramatic announcement from the government giving details of a staged opening of the New Zealand borders from the 27^th of February with, initially, New Zealand citizens and residents being able to return without having to book an MIQ spot but isolating at home for 10 days. This is great news of course for so many New Zealand families who can be reunited at last. From a Te Akau/Fortuna point of view, Mark Walker, who has been twiddling his thumbs in Singapore itching to get on a plane to come back to New Zealand, now has a pathway to do so – obviously the sooner he can get back the better, so that the transition/handover of the NZ Head Training role from Jamie to Mark can run smoothly.

In other Covid News the very prestigious John Hopkins University has conducted a study on the effects of lockdowns in the USA and Europe and concluded that they had a “negligible impact” on death rates of just 0.2% – they went further to say that lockdowns may have contributed to a faster spread of the Virus due to people being forced to stay in their homes instead of being out and about in parks, beaches etc. Meanwhile, here in the “Hermit Kingdom” the iconic Castlepoint Beach point to point race meeting has been cancelled this year due to “Covid Risk” !!!!

Murray Baker announces retirement

Yes, it’s true, the iconic Cambridge based Trainer is hanging up his binoculars – a more humble gentleman you would never meet – Read a tribute story HERE

ENTERTAINER  (5yo Gelding by Zoustar out of Laughing) produced a scintillating display in winning the Class 2 1100m Polytrack event at Singapore’s Kranji racetrack 29th January. Ridden for the first time by the highly experienced Harry Kasim, ENTERTAINER (Stable name “Joker”) had a bit to prove. Although lodging six wins from seven starts at this trip and surface in 2021, a resuming run in Class 3 grade 8th January had seen him fade in the closing stages to finish 7th. Up to Class 2 for this race and facing much stronger competition, punters were happy to support more favoured chances and sent ENTERTAINER out at odds of 12 to 1. No one told the horse this of course and away well from the gates, he settled outside the girth of stable mate, Makkam Lad, while two other favoured runners, Celavi and Arrarat Lady were back in the field. Traveling sweetly in the run, Kasim had the horse relaxed and well held together – asked for more effort at about the 250m mark, ENTERTAINER drew away and went to the line a length clear of the fast finishing Lady Arrarat in a time of 1.04.39.

Click HERE to see the race replay

“Joker’s” win bought up three successive wins for Harry Kasim over the day – the popular rider who is well known in New Zealand, having had a riding stint there a few years ago, had endured a frustrating start to the new season with no winners up until yesterday so to score three in a row was a big thrill – “I had really enjoyed getting my first two winners” said Kasim post race, “but then I got onto Entertainer, my last ride and, cantering to the barriers, all of a sudden it felt so natural he would win too. He’s a nice horse and he jumped better than we thought, and we were able to get a good position. I was happy to just let him travel for me. At the top of the straight, I was confident I could get my third win. He showed a good turn of foot and I knew he would win at the 200m.”

Entertainer makes it 7 wins in Singapore – 29th January 2022

Trainer Donna Logan, who only took over the Head Trainer’s role for Te Akau Racing, replacing the departing  four time Singapore Champion Trainer, Mark Walker, was extremely proud of her charge “That was brilliant to watch – to be honest, I didn’t thimk he could win today, given the quality of the opposition, but Joker was just too big, too strong and had the last laugh  in the end. Super ride by Harry, but he had a big motor under him. Congrats to John Galvin and his big crew of Owners – the Fortuna Stable here in Singapore is absolutely flying”

Fortuna Boss, John Galvin, watching from his home in New Zealand, was over the moon with the outcome “I was up and out of my chair as they turned for home – Harry had him going so well and I just knew he would be hard to get past with him only carrying 50kgs. I had discounted his previous start as he had had a good blow after that race and I knew he would take a lot of improvement. He was racing out of his grade in Class 2 but his last win 30th October had been in that grade also, so I was quietly confident that he had a good chance of a repeat. Well done to Harry and I am rapt for Donna Logan – she has big shoes to fill in taking over the Te Akau operation from Mark Walker, but with five wins to date in the new season, she is off to a bright start”

Happy Harry Kasim with equally happy Trainer Donna Logan

Entertainer’s win made it 4 wins from 13 starts for the Fortuna NZ Racing Stable in Singapore in the 2022 season along with a 2nd, two 3rds and 3 4ths

Entertainer was acquired by Mark Walker on behalf of Fortuna at the Inglis Digital sale in December 2019 for A$20,000 – he has now won seven races from fifteen starts in Singapore and accumulated S$237,000 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 Singapore

Fortuna has four runners in Singapore this Saturday 29th January – and one runner in NZ Sunday 30^thJanuary

New Zealand

Breaking News – Leaderboard has had to be scratched from the Wellington Cup due to a hoof abscess – huge disappointment for Jamie, Te Akau Racing and of course his big crew of Owners from the Fortuna Leaderboard Syndicate

Navalha contests the Rating 74 1100m at Ellerslie Sunday 30^th – an impressive winner of his first two starts Dec 2020 and Jan 2021, he has had a long and frustrating time on the sidelines with minor injuries and illness. A strong finishing 3^rd Cambridge trials 11^th January suggests all is now well. To be ridden by Opie Bosson from barrier one. Performs well fresh – never easy in this grade, but if back to his best can feature

Singapore

Brutus is in the Class 4 1200 Turf (Race 3 at 6pm NZT) – has taken all before him of late with 3 wins and a 2^nd from his last 4 starts – Shafiq Rusof stays on. Up significantly in the ratings but dominant win at his last start and can repeat

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

1st Pick: BRUTUS (3)
The form continues and holding strong with three wins from his last four starts. Doesn’t have to lead but should be up there and fend them off in the finish.
2nd Pick: LIM’S PASSION (2)
Gets back and runs home strongly. There should be good speed in the race and with that looks a definite place chance in this field. Switch back to the turf suits.
3rd Pick: HARRY DREAM (8)
She has a serious motor when she gets running. This is a race that if she brings her best and things go her way, she could surprise.
4th Pick: DR KARDO (10)
Last three starts have been respectable after failing to do much since his maiden win. Should press forward with a lightweight and give some sight.

Elliot Ness is in the Class 4 1100 Polytrack event (Race 6 at 7.30pm NZT) – CC Wong takes the mount – a track record holder at Kranj (1200m) this talented galloper has been plagued with virus and soundness issues – however recent treatments seem to have him back to near his best – has a featherweight to carry (50.5kgs) – can feature here if at best

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

1st Pick: PROOF PERFECT (3)
Back to winning mark of 60 once again. Could surprise much like last season where off the same mark, broke through first start for 2021 over 1100m on the Polytrack. Coming off a long break is the only query.
2nd Pick: ELLIOT NESS (11)
Put in a super run last time to the races with a low weight beaten 1.9L by Al Green. Consistently not far off the winner and looks to be a threat here once again. One-from-one track and distance.
3rd Pick: RESOLUTION (1)
Slick trial on January 20 ahead of first start in 2022. Form behind King Arthur last start looked strong, looks a major player.
4th Pick: MIRACLE (8)
Rating is probably still a little high but trials have been good, therefore he shouldn’t be left out of exotic bets.

Entertainer contests the Class 2 1100 Polytrack (Race 10 at 9.30m NZT) – faded out this trip Class 3 on resuming last start but not suited by tactics – will improve from that run – racing out of his class here, but has won this class, trip and surface in 2021. Senior Rider Harry Kasim takes the mount with just 50.5kgs to carry. A six time winner in Singapore, he loves to lead and if he can do that here, represents a good each way chance

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

1st Pick: CELAVI (2)
She returns to the Polytrack after a disappointing run on turf last start. She is drawn perfectly in two and should be leading and giving them all something to chase.
2nd Pick: MAKKEM LAD (1)
Has a great record on this surface and does most of his racing on the turf. The three-kilogram claim for Yusoff Fadzli brings him right into contention. Speed runner.
3rd Pick: ENTERTAINER (6)
This is a tough test for him compared to his best wins. With good speed in the race, he should be behind the leaders and have one crack at the finish.
4th Pick: ARARAT LADY (8)
Trialled in sensational style stopping the clock at 58.8 in preparation for this run. Great stats over this distance and should run well fresh.

Cosmic Sands is in the Class 4 1400 Turf (Race 11 at 10pm NZT) with Shafiq Rusof in the saddle – caused some head scratching this trip and surface at last start when over racing and then losing action on turning for home – blinkers come off and we are expecting a better effort – will be at long odds and should be taken on trust

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday 25^th Jan
Navalha (M Grylls) galloped in company over 800 metres in 52.7, last 600 in 37.5.
Leaderboard (R Khan) galloped over 1200 metres in 1.19.8, last 600 in 38.8.
Hayate (A Gujar) galloped over 800 metres in 52.7, home in 37.

Thursday 27th Jan
No timed Fortuna trackwork today

Fortuna Track work – Singapore
Tuesday 25^th Jan
Brutus (Jerlyn) – C, 1000/600 38; Elliot Ness (Saimee) – C, 1000/600 38;; Hadeer (Jerlyn) – C, 1000/600 38.5; Olympia (Aslam) – C, 1000/600; Entertainer (Harry K) – 800/600 38;

Other News
Fortuna Shares for Sale

Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale

The Yearling Filly by Rubick out of Miss Foxwood (“Cube”)

Outstanding pedigree – acquired for “unders” by Mark Walker – registered for the Magic Millions Series – arrived in NZ 26^th Jan – will spell at Te Akau Stud before being broken in and having first stable prep after that – capable of making a 2yo but has 3yo type written all over her. Shares available at $2,000 per each 1% share and $40 per month from 1^st April

Stop Press!!! – Cube arrived at Te Akau Stud Thursday morning – Click HERE to see this “must view” Video Clip of her parading with Voice over from David Ellis
 

Shares can be ordered online from the Fortuna website HERE

NZB Ready to Run Sale

2yo Gelding by Darci Brahma out of the winning Iffraaj Mare,  Ujjayyi – this strapping 2yo is in work and will have his first trial early March – still a few shares left at $1100 per each 1% and $40 per month from 1 April

Shares can be ordered online from the Fortuna website HERE

Contact John by email john@fortuna-nz.com if you require further information or call/text 021 921 460

Secondary Market Opportunity – Polaris – the 3yo Gelding by Deep Field out of Miss Fi (by Makfi)

 Polaris was acquired by David Ellis for Fortuna at the 2020 Karaka Sale – prepared in NZ by Jamie Richard, he was not ready to race as a 2yo, but had three very good placings in NZ as a 3yo, during the late spring/early summer. Following this, Jamie’s recommendation was that he would be ideal for Singapore as he had missed his 3yo age group opportunities and was not a “Derby” type. Also, in being a Maiden with less than 4 starts, he is eligible for the Restricted Maiden Grade in Singapore, a grade which carries S$75k as prizemoney. Polaris passed his in depth Singapore Turf Club Vet test with flying colours and flew to Singapore 20^th Jan, – he exits quarantine 5^th Feb and, all going well, he will make his Singapore debut in April in Restricted Maiden Grade for S$75k. The great majority of the Ownership Group were fully supportive of this move, but some Members have decided not to proceed and so a small percentage of the shares have become available. We had Polaris independently valued recently by Registered Bloodstock Valuer, Marcus Corban, who assessed his value  for the purpose of this share transfer at $50,000. Landed in Singapore with all transport and quarantine fees included, Insurance paid to 31 Jan 2023 and working capital account replenished, the all up cost of each 1% share is $720 for each 1% share and $36 per month from 1 March 2022. There are no Promoter Fees in this transaction

John comments “As readers would be aware, Fortuna has had significant success these past 3 years or so in acquiring “tried” horses for Singapore racing – effectively we have had no failures and many, many successes. Polaris with his trial and raceday form, fits squarely into this “tried horse” category and there is every reason to believe he can be very successful in Singapore – interestly, he has a very similar profile to Ronald’s Dream, who had 3 starts for 3 placings in NZ before going to Singapore and winning a Restricted Maiden on debut”

To participate contact John by email john@fortuna-nz.com or call/text 021 921 460

Another Fortuna Winner

MADAME MOET breaks through for Maiden Win Matamata 26th January

MADAME MOET, the four year old mare by Iffraaj out of Champagne Katie (by Darci Brahma) scored an impressive Maiden Grade win at Matamata 26th January in the Matamata Function Centre 1600m event. Drawn nicely in barrier 3, rider Opie Bosson had her away conservatively from the gates but was able to sneak her up on the rail into a nice spot just in behind the leaders. Moving off the rail just before the turn, MADAME MOET (who carries the stable name “Bubbles”) surged into the lead and went to the line well clear of her opposition.

Click HERE to see the replay

Trainer Jamie Richards was on course and post race he said “Lovely win, ridden very nicely by Opie, she was always going well and fully deserves this victory after going close in her last two starts.”

Madame Moet – Maiden Win Matamata 26th January 2022

Fortuna Director, John Galvin, forced to watch the race from his Hamilton home due to the “closed door” protocols at Matamata under the “Red” traffic light provisions, was also very happy “Bubbles gave us a great sight today after having to cop wide draws in her last two runs – she presented beautifully pre race, was given a lovely ride by Opie and was too good for them today. Shame that her big ownership group could not be on course, but that is the world we live in at the moment.”

MADAME MOET was acquired by David Ellis on behalf of Fortuna at the 2019 Karaka Yearling Sale for $62,500 from her breeders, Wentwood Grange – she has had seven starts for 1 win, a 2nd and 4 4ths . She is raced by the Fortuna Madame Moet Syndicate, an ownership group consisting of 67 individuals

Covid – Traffic light Red and Racing

Earlier in the week, the Government announced a move to “Red” Traffic light protocols – this in the light of Omicron variant being detected in the community and a movement to “Red” is designed to slow down the rate of transmission – it is very clear to everybody that the previous “elimination” strategy is well past its use by date.

So what does this mean for racing? Well, most importantly all race meetings can be held – however attendances by Club Members, Owners and the Public will be significantly curtailed with a maximum gathering of 100 people per “pod” at individual race tracks. Some meetings (such as Matamata on Wednesday 26^th) will be “closed doors” – but this is probably a rarity. Trentham on Saturday (Wellington Cup Day) is going ahead with 1800 on course – presumably this means they have 18 pods available. All attendees will need to register with the respective Club on race day and it is up to each Club to determine how many people they can host.

Jockeys can no longer travel interisland under “Red” settings.

From a practical point of view, this should mean that any Member of a Fortuna Syndicate that has a horse racing can attend on race day if they so choose, although application to the Club concerned will need to be made. The Clubs will be in contact by email with all registered Owners after Acceptances have been taken – full instructions on how to register will be in those emails.

You can read the NZTR protocols in full here.

So, how long will this state of affairs continue you may ask? I guess we could respond “how long is a piece of string?”  Probably the answer lies in how rapidly the Virus spreads. We can get some indication on this from Australia, particularly from Queensland, which has a similar population to NZ (5m approx) and has a similar vaccination profile.

As at 20 December 2021, just before Omicron hit, Queensland had had 2400 cases in total since the start of the Virus (March 2020) and just 7 deaths (now that is “world leading!!). As of 27^th Jan, about a five week period, case numbers had risen sharply to 358,000 – an average of around 10,000 per day, although cases seemed to peak at around 20,000 per day mid January and were 13,500 26^th January. Total deaths have risen to 151. As of 26^th Jan, there were 889 people in hospital, 47 in ICU. Similar figures here in NZ would see the Health system “stretched” but not over run

We should note that these “cases” are just the official numbers – some health experts postulate that “actual” cases may be a lot higher, but go unreported because the symptoms are mild or because people don’t get tested. If this theory is correct then community transmission would be running a lot higher and eventually the bulk of the population would have natural immunity. Notable that figures out of the UK today show that 95% of the adult population have Covid antibodies (immunity), either because they have had Covid or/and been vaccinated.

So, back to the question. My “prediction” is that it will be at least 3 months, maybe longer, before we go back to Orange and Racing goes back to normal. That could change of course depending on how rapidly the Virus spreads throughout the community – watch this space!!!

MADAME MOET, the four year old mare by Iffraaj out of Champagne Katie (by Darci Brahma) scored an impressive Maiden Grade win at Matamata 26th January in the Matamata Function Centre 1600m event. Drawn nicely in barrier 3, rider Opie Bosson had her away conservatively from the gates but was able to sneak her up on the rail into a nice spot just in behind the leaders. Moving off the rail just before the turn, MADAME MOET (who carries the stable name “Bubbles”) surged into the lead and went to the line well clear of her opposition.

Click HERE to see the replay

Trainer Jamie Richards was on course and post race he said “Lovely win, ridden very nicely by Opie, she was always going well and fully deserves this victory after going close in her last two starts.”

Madame Moet – Maiden Win Matamata 26th January 2022

Fortuna Director, John Galvin, forced to watch the race from his Hamilton home due to the “closed door” protocols at Matamata under the “Red” traffic light provisions, was also very happy “Bubbles gave us a great sight today after having to cop wide draws in her last two runs – she presented beautifully pre race, was given a lovely ride by Opie and was too good for them today. Shame that her big ownership group could not be on course, but that is the world we live in at the moment.”

MADAME MOET was acquired by David Ellis on behalf of Fortuna at the 2019 Karaka Yearling Sale for $62,500 from her breeders, Wentwood Grange – she has had seven starts for 1 win and, a 2nd and 4 4ths . She is raced by the Fortuna Madame Moet Syndicate, an ownership group consisting of 67 individuals

Fortuna Racing has three runners this Saturday 22^nd  January – one in New Zealand and two in Singapore

New Zealand

Mohawk Brave contests the Group 3 Almanzor Trophy at Ellerslie with Jonathan Parkes in the saddle – unbeaten from two starts to date, including a highly impressive performance in the R65 1200 at Awapuni on Boxing Day, this strapping son of Extreme Choice faces a massive class rise here and will meet the likes of Bonny Lass, Sword Of State and Imperatriz. He traveled to Ellerslie for a track gallop in company 17^th January and his work was very strong. Has a bit to do to feature here but is a horse on “the up” – strong place chance

Singapore

Hidden Promise is in the Class 5 1200m Poly (Race 1 at 5pm NZT) – resuming after last racing 14^thNovember, this hardy nice year old has won seven times in Singapore at 1600m plus – but has put in some solid performances at this trip when in a fresh state – Apprentice K Yusoff takes 3kgs off his back – can run into the minors if pace is strong

Deception contests the Restricted Maiden 1200m Turf (Race 2 at 5.30pm NZT). Having his 2^nd career start, Deception ran a solid 3^rd placing this grade 1100 Poly 8^th January on debut, but did run greenly – the in form Shafiq Rusof takes the mount for the first time – gets to 1200 and the Turf – strong trials performances indicate that he can perform very well here – tricky draw from barrier 10 but strong each way chance with luck from draw

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

1st Pick: DECEPTION (8)
Was well supported last start and caught the eye running home in the fastest sectional of that race. The switch to turf should suit and needs some luck from a wide draw.
2nd Pick: BOUNTY RAINBOWS (6)
Winner of both his trials in pretty good time. Manoel Nunes has ridden him in both of those and he sticks with him for his debut. Will be well supported in betting.
3rd Pick: BINGO MASTER (2)
Has race experience to his name. A nice placing last start behind Sand Box who on the day was a surprise win. Since then he was a runner-up again and that form is standing up.
4th Pick: ALQANTUR (5)
Trialled nice since arriving. Should get a nice break from barrier two and must respect a first starter from this stable. Watch any market moves for him.

Fortuna Track work – Matamata

Tuesday 18^th Jan

Madame Moet (S.Pillay) worked over 1200 metres at three-quarter pace in 1.25.3, last 600 in 41.3.

Hayate (S.Pillay) worked at three-quarter pace over 800 metres in 57, home in 43.

Thursday 20th Jan

Madame Moet (M.Roustoby) worked over an easy 1200 metres in 1.21, home in 39.

Navalha (R.Khan) worked over 800 metres at three-quarter pace in 58, home in 43

Hayate (S.Pillay) worked over 600 metres at three-quarter pace in 43.2

Other News

A winning double for Fortuna in Singapore Saturday 15^th January with both King Arthur and Brutus greeting the judge – see stories below from Fortuna Website

KING ARTHUR reigns supreme in Singapore making it 3 wins in a row

KING ARTHUR put in another regal performance when taking out the Class 4 1000m Polytrack event at Kranji 15th January, recording his 3rd win in succession and his 4th career win in Singapore. After winning his last two races from wide barrier draws, the 4yo son of I Am Invincible out of Pentasia (by Pentire) had the luxury of the No 1 gate this time. Former Singapore Champion Apprentice rider Shafiq Rusof was in the saddle and, jumping away well but then being pressured on the outside by two other runners, Shafiq was content to ease slightly, but hold the rail. Traveling well in the run, Shafiq gave his mount extra rein as they turned for home and King Arthur skipped away, going to the line under a hands and heels ride, easing down  with 2 lengths to spare, running the trip in the smart time of 58.55

Click HERE to see the race replay

Trainer Donna Logan, recording her 2nd Training success in her role as newly appointed Head Trainer for the powerful Te Akau Racing enterprise, was a happy lass after the race  “That was super to watch, this horse has really matured in his attitude and is racing very professionally – Shafiq handled him perfectly and he was just too strong for them today. Well done to John Galvin and his Fortuna Team of Owners, they put a lot into Singapore racing and deserve every success they get”

“King Arthur” – Singapore Win #4 – 15th  January 2022

Fortuna Director, John Galvin, watching from his Hamilton home in New Zealand was also very happy “It’s never easy to win three in a row, but King Arthur was up to the task today and was a dominant winner, He hasn’t been the easiest horse to handle in the past, getting himself very worked up pre race, but today, as with his last start, he was the perfect gentleman saving all of his energies for the race. Big kudos to Donna Logan as we had set King Arthur to run on the 22nd Jan in the Class 4 1200, but after getting a very bullish trackwork report from Shafiq last Monday morning, Donna decided to give him another crack at the 1000m trip this week, a decision that has paid off big time ”

BRUTUS wins again in Singapore – his 4th Career Win

5yo Gelding BRUTUS (Rubick – Harvest Queen) made it back to back wins and recorded 3 wins and a 2nd from his last four starts when taking out the Class 4 1200m Turf at Singapore’s Kranji racecourse 15th January. Perfectly handled by former Singapore Champion Apprentice, Shafiq Rusof, BRUTUS bought up a double for the day for Shafiq, Te Akau Trainer Donna Logan and the Fortuna NZ Stable. Drawn in a mid field barrier, Shafiq had Brutus away well, but then eased and dropped into a one back out spot in the run, traveled nicely in the run, loomed up on the turn and was too classy in the run home, going to the post with a length to spare.

 Click HERE to see the race replay

Trainer, Donna Logan, recording her 2nd win for the day and her 3rd from just three racedays in her newly appointed role as Head Trainer for Te Akau Racing Singapore was over the moon with the result “That’s a super performance – he was just too classy for them today – beautifully ridden by Shafiq and a great outcome for John Galvin and his Fortuna Team.”

 BRUTUS – Wins in Singapore 15th January 2022

Fortuna Director, John  Galvin, watching from his home in New Zealand, was enjoying his evening having already watched the Fortuna stablemate KING ARTHUR win impressively earlier in the evening  “That was an impressive performance today. Brutus has really turned his form around these past few months – he hit a bit of a flat spot throughout early and mid 2021 but came into his own with two wins and a 2nd in his last three starts in 2021. His former Trainer, Mark Walker, then made the wise decision to freshen him after his last win (3oth Oct), his new Trainer, Donna Logan, made an equally wise decision to trial him 4th January – that topped him off nicely. And well ridden by Shafiq, who is riding with just so much confidence”

Brutus (Rubick-Harvest Queen) was acquired by John Galvin at the May 2019 Inglis Digital Sale for A$45,000 from his former owners, The China Horse Club – he has now won four times and had nine minor placings from 24 starts and has accumulated S211,000 in Stakes for his 46 member strong ownership group, the Fortuna Brutus Syndicate, an Ownership Group with Members from New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong and the UK

Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale

Breaking News from Magic Millions re enhancements to the Magic Millions Series

The Magic Millions Series has gone from strength to strength in recent years – the series is held over one raceday at Aquis Park on the Gold Coast– i.e the Saturday before the Magic Millions Summer Yearling Sale on the Gold Coast.

Currently it is a nine race programme with two races – the Two Year Old Classic and the Three Year Old Guineas run for A$2m each and five other races for A$1m each – there is also a Maiden race for A$250k and a Grade race for A$250k  – clearly this is a highly lucrative day for the connections of successful runners – note that entry to these races are for yearlings that have bought at MM Yearlings Sales and which have been registered for the MM Series (one time fee of A$5500) – final acceptances are determined by ratings

Last week Magic Millions announced a significant enhancement for this Series beginning in 2023 – two new races – “The Syndicator” a race with A$1m Stakes over 1200mopen to horses 3yo and up owned by Ownership Groups consisting of more than 20 people. And “The Debut” a race for A$500k over 900m for 2yo’s having their first start. Both very exciting enhancements I am sure you will agree.

While the 2yo Race is probably a bridge too far for a NZ based 2yo, the Syndicator is a realistic target for any NZ based Graduate of the MM Yearling Sales. Which brings our very latest yearling acquisition, acquired 12^th January right into focus

About The Yearling Filly by Rubick out of Miss Foxwood (“Cube”)

This Filly by Rubick (now given the stable name “Cube”) was selected by the Fortuna and Te Akau Trainer, Mark Walker, from the Magic Millions Gold Coast Summer Yearling Sale. With travel conditions difficult to Australia for New Zealanders, Mark Walker had travelled from Singapore to Australia late December and had immersed himself in the catalogue and online viewing of Video clips and photographs. Planning to buy five or six Yearlings in total for Te Akau in total, Mark had shortlisted about 100 Yearlings. Arriving at the Sales grounds early January, Mark then conducted physical inspections, consulting with David Ellis along the way and in the end, had a total of around 24 Yearlings vetted and those that passed were on the final buying list.

Mark had been working on a brief provided to him by Fortuna Racing’s John Galvin to select a strongly pedigreed, physically correct Yearling filly, who could potentially make a 2yo, but had the scope to develop into a quality 3yo and older horse. During inspections, Mark had identified “Cube” as a “must have” acquisition for Te Akau Racing and would be available to Fortuna provided she came in at or under the Fortuna budget ceiling. The budget was A$110k but at Auction  time the A$110k bid was with another bidder, so Mark went one more bid and she was knocked down to us for A$120k, a very satisfying outcome in the context of an overall sales average of A$298k

Pedigree
CUBE possesses an outstanding pedigree. Her Sire is Rubick, a super fast winning son of Encosta de Lago, who won twice as a Two Year old including the Group Three Blue Diamond Prelude at Caulfield and then as a Three Year old won the Group Two Schillaci Stakes at Caulfield. The Sire of over 136 winners to date, including 3 Stakes winners, his Stud career got off to a flying start with his son Yes, Yes,Yes winning the Everest in 2019 and in the 2019/20 season he was the Leading Sire of 3yo’s in Australia. Rubick is the Sire of the Fortuna 5yo, Brutus, the Singapore based winner of 4 races to date in that jurisdiction

CUBE’S Dam, Miss Foxwood (by Fastnet Rock) the winner of 3 races in NZ and was Stakes placed once at Group One level, twice at Group 3 level and twice at Listed Level. Her Dam Foxwood (by Centaine) was an outstanding racemare, winning 5 times, twice at Group One Level (NZ 2000 Guineas and Captain Cook Stakes) and amazingly, she is the dam of 10 horses to race, all winners. She is the Granddam of the Singapore Champion 3yo, Mr Clint, the winner of the Singapore Guineas and the Singapore Gold Cup. This is also the family of Melbourne Cup winner, Gurners Lane
Across the board, this is an exceptional pedigree page, emphasised by the Dam Sire line of Fastnet Rock, Centaine, Sir Tristram, Sovereign Edition and Le Filou

Click HERE to Cube’s pedigree

Physical type
A strong, attractive Bay Filly  of good medium size, “Cube” is physically correct, has a lovely temperament, walks very well and passed her Vet exam with flying colours with a Grade 1 scope and very clean X Rays – Click HERE to see her parading at Sales Grounds

Selector’s view (Mark Walker)
“This Filly has an outstanding pedigree page which really caught my attention in the first place, but then when I  inspected her I was really impressed with her physical attributes – she is strong, well grown, walks beautifully and in my view represents great value both as a racemare and a future broodmare prospect. I was doubtful that I would be able to secure her for John’s budget, however the Australian Yearling market is very “fashionable” and although Rubick has a very good record as a Stallion at Stud, the “fashion” lies with I Am Invincible, Zoustar, Written Tycoon, Deep Field etc. Accordingly, she was able to slip under the radar to some degree and given her physical type and pedigree and the price we paid in the end compared to overall sales average, I am labelling her the “Value Buy of the Sale”.
I am on my way back to New Zealand in the next few weeks to take over from Jamie Richards as Head Trainer for Te Akau Racing in NZ and I am really looking forward to preparing this Filly for her racing career.”

Te Akau Racing’s David Ellis
“While I was unable to attend this Sale in person this year, due to travel restrictions, I worked very closely with Mark Walker as he sifted through the catalogue, conducted physical inspections and had our short list vetted. The Sale was exceptionally strong and I had my reservations, John, as to whether you would be able to secure a suitable type for your budget, but once again, you have succeeded. This Rubick Filly has an exceptional page with a deep, deep pedigree going back to some of New Zealand’s oldest families. Physically she is very impressive and I am going to be very proud to have her in our Stable to train for you”

Syndicator’s view (John Galvin)
“As always, we strive to seek “value” with our thoroughbred purchases and anticipating that this Magic Millions Yearling Sale would be very strong, we knew that we would have to “box clever” in order to acquire the right type of filly within our budget. Physical type is where I always focus my attention, Mark Walker is of the same mind of course and he identified five fillies for us that ticked all of the physical boxes that he thought may meet our budget. The first two came and went for “overs” but then we managed to secure the third one, this Rubick- Miss Foxwood Filly within our budget constraints. I was particularly pleased by that because I had rated her pedigree page as the No 1 of the five on the list. I am also very pleased that Mark Walker was heavily involved in her selection, given that he is returning to NZ to his old role as Te Akau Racing’s NZ Trainer”

Disclosure Statement & Agreement
Click HERE to read Disclosure Statement – Click HERE to read Syndicate Agreement

Terms

• Shares available right down to 1%.
• 10% share $20,000 – 5% share  $10,000 – 2.5% share $5000 – 1% share $2,000 (all pricing in $NZ)
• Share price includes all Initial Costs (Purchase price, GST, Promoters Fees, Insurance through to 31st January 2023, and Working Capital of over $14,000
• Monthly ongoing costs from 1^st April 2022 – from that date ongoing costs are – 10% share $400 per month – 5% share $200 per month – 2.5% share $100 per month – 1% share $40 per month.
• Monthly ongoing costs can alternatively be paid up to 12 months in advance as an option for subscribers by Bank Payment or Credit Card

Shares can be ordered online from the Fortuna website HERE

Contact John by email john@fortuna-nz.com if you require further information or call/text 021 921 460

Ironies

As one who has never been afraid to be like the little boy in the Fairy Tale who cries out “Look, the Emperor has no clothes” I always have my eye out for those absurdities or ironies in life that jump out at us, particularly when they come from “officialdom”

Two caught my eye in this past week – the first one from across the Tasman with “Novax” Djokovic getting the boot because he didn’t fill out some forms properly – you could almost hear the collective sigh of relief from the Aussies believing they were now “safe” from someone who may not have been vaccinated – the irony is of course that this was against a backdrop where tens of thousands of Aussies (both vaccinated and unvaccinated) were going down with Covid.

By the way, it has come to light in this past week that jockeys in NSW are not required to be vaccinated!!

The second one is closer to home with a Judge determining that he would deny bail to Brian Tamaki who had arrested on a charge of speaking in a public place in breach of bail conditions. Presumably, the judge concluded that this 63 year old man was somehow a “threat to the community” if he was allowed to roam free? – meanwhile in South Auckland the gangsters roam around in their fancy cars armed to the teeth with illegal firearms, dealing amphetamines and shooting down anyone who gets in their way, seemingly untroubled by the Police and the Courts – the irony is delicious – it has become a funny old world we live in!!!

5yo Gelding BRUTUS (Rubick – Harvest Queen) made it back to back wins and recorded 3 wins and a 2nd from his last four starts when taking out the Class 4 1200m Turf at Singapore’s Kranji racecourse 15th January. Perfectly handled by former Singapore Champion Apprentice, Shafiq Rusof, BRUTUS bought up a double for the day for Shafiq, Te Akau Trainer Donna Logan and the Fortuna NZ Stable. Drawn in a mid field barrier, Shafiq had Brutus away well, but then eased and dropped into a one back out spot in the run, traveled nicely in the run, loomed up on the turn and was too classy in the run home, going to the post with a length to spare.

 Click HERE to see the race replay

Trainer, Donna Logan, recording her 2nd win for the day and her 3rd from just three racedays in her newly appointed role as Head Trainer for Te Akau Racing Singapore was over the moon with the result “That’s a super performance – he was just too classy for them today – beautifully ridden by Shafiq and a great outcome for John Galvin and his Fortuna Team.”

 BRUTUS – Wins in Singapore 15th January 2022

Fortuna Director, John  Galvin, watching from his home in New Zealand, was enjoying his evening having already watched the Fortuna stablemate KING ARTHUR win impressively earlier in the evening  “That was an impressive performance today. Brutus has really turned his form around these past few months – he hit a bit of a flat spot throughout early and mid 2021 but came into his own with two wins and a 2nd in his last three starts in 2021. His former Trainer, Mark Walker, then made the wise decision to freshen him after his last win (3oth Oct), his new Trainer, Donna Logan, made an equally wise decision to trial him 4th January – that topped him off nicely. And well ridden, by Shafiq, who is riding with just so much confidence”

Shafiq Rusof returns to scale aboard Brutus – Trainer Donna Logam is at left

Brutus (Rubick-Harvest Queen) was acquired by John Galvin at the May 2019 Inglis Digital Sale for A$45,000 from his former owners, The China Horse Club – he has now won four times and had nine minor placings from 24 starts and has accumulated S211,000 in Stakes for his 46 member strong ownership group, the Fortuna Brutus Syndicate, an Ownership Group with Members from New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong and the UK