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UPI
3 days ago
- UPI
Calandigan wins King George, Glorious Goodwood to have more top racing
Calandagan wins the Group 1 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes on Saturday, earning a "Win and You're In" bid to the Breeders' Cup Turf. Photo by Hattie Austin/ courtesy of Breeders' Cup July 28 (UPI) -- Royal Ascot rules racing springtime in England, but midsummer packs in some of the best of the year's action as the 3-year-olds start to test their elders and spots for big-ticket year-end races are on the block. The weekend's King George meeting at Ascot and this week's Glorious Goodwood are on the leading edge of that excitement. Here's a rundown, a look forward and a sideways glance at Germany and South Africa. England Calandagan chased down Kalpana in the final yards to land Saturday's Group 1 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot by 1 length with two-time Breeders' Cup Turf winner Rebel's Romance rallying to finish third after traffic issues. Coolmore's pair, Jan Brueghel and Continuous, led the way for most of the King George's 1 1/4 miles, but wilted when Kapana surged to the front midway down the straight. They finished next-last and last in the five-horse field. Kalpana, a 4-year-old Study of Man filly, with Oisin Murphy up, looked to have stolen a march on the field, but Mickael Barzalona had Calandagan wound up from the back of the pack and the Aga Khan Stud's homebred 4-year-old Gleneagles gelding got the job done. The tactics were a bit of a puzzler, as most thought Continuous was in the race to make a pace for Jan Brueghel, who had defeated Calandagan by 1/2 length in the Group 1 Coronation Cup using those tactics. Barzalona said he was surprised, too, to see jockey Ryan Moore put Jan Brueghel on the lead. "I didn't expect that one," Barzalona said. "But once I saw Continuous beside him and Rebel's Romance boxed in, I was happy where I was because I knew either William [Buick on Rebel's Romance] was going to make a gap or Oisin was going to have to go round. "I was just waiting to see what happened, and when I saw Oisin making the move, I just followed." The race was a "Win and You're In" for the Longines Breeders' Cup Turf on Nov. 1 at Del Mar. Trainer Francis Graffard wasn't talking California in his post-race comments. "He's in the Juddmonte International, so why not go there?" he added, referring to the Group 1 at York on Aug. 20. "I wouldn't mind coming back and then maybe going to Japan at the end of the season. But I have to discuss it with the Aga Khan team and Princess Zahra." Kalpana, despite the defeat, was lowered into the favorite's role by many bookmakers for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, perhaps thanks to her win on soft turf in last October's Group 1 British Champions Filly & Mare Turf. Calandagan came to Ascot off a victory in the Group 1 Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud. Before that, he had four straight seconds, all in Group 1 races. Also Saturday at Ascot, Fitzella captured the Group 3 Princess Margaret Stakes, improving on a fourth-place finish in the Group 3 Albany at the Royal meeting; and Cheshire Dancer landed the Group 3 Valiant Stakes for fillies and mares at 1 mile. On Friday at Ascot, Time to Turn shot to the lead in the final furlong of the Pat Eddery Stakes for 2-year-olds and held off the late run of A Bit of Spirit to win by a head. The Godolphin homebred Dark Angel colt finished second in his first two starts, won his third on the Wolverhampton all-weather and was favorite in Friday's field. Looking ahead ... Glorious Goodwood kicks off Tuesday with the Group 1 Goodwood Cup, a 2-mile staying test with Coolmore's Illinois and Scandinavia the top early picks. Wathnan Racing fields French Master. Nine-year-old Dubai Future is held at long odds in the eight-horse field, but has shown continued ability with a win in the Group 2 Dubai Gold Cup in April and a third (albeit beaten 13 lengths) in the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot. Trainer Saeed bin Suroor would like nothing more than to pick up his second top-level win in three days' time after winning Sunday in Munich. The highlight of the meeting arrives Wednesday in the Group 1 Visit Qatar Sussex Stakes. Field of Gold, romping winner of the Group 1 St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot in his last start, is the overwhelming favorite. He and Coolmore's Henri Matisse, second at Ascot, try their luck against older horses for the first time. Field of Gold, a Juddmonte homebred trained by John and Thady Gosden, shares the top spot in the Longines World's Best Racehorse Rankings with Ombudsman and Japanese star Forever Young. It's 3-year-olds against older rivals again Thursday in the Group 1 Qatar Nassau Stakes for fillies and mares. Pending declarations, Coolmore holds a strong hand with entries for Whirl, winner of the Group 1 Pretty Polly, and Bedtime Story, second in the Group 1 Prix de Diane or French Oaks. See the Fire, third behind Ombudsman in the Group 1 Prince of Wales's Stakes at the Royal meeting, also figures in this 1 1/4-mile test. Germany Tornado Alert racked up another German Group 1 win for Godolphin in Sunday's Grosser Dallmayr-Preis in Munich. Jockey Oisin Murphy kept the 3-year-old Too Darn Hot colt close enough to the pace throughout, easily took the lead turning for home and repulsed a late bid by the favorite, Wathnan Racing's Map of Stars, to win by 2 1/2 lengths. Lazio finished third, the best of the locals. Winning trainer Saeed bin Suroor, who won the event with Kutub in 2001 and Benbatl in 2018, picked up his first Group 1 win since October 2023. Neither of the top two features in the top ranks for upcoming Group 1 events, but Tornado Alert's odds were halved by some bookmakers for the Juddmonte International at York. Map of Stars' standing for the Arc took a tumble. South Africa Gladatorian turned the tables on Durban July winner The Real Prince in Saturday's Grade 1 HKJC Champions Day at Greyville, seeing off that rival by 1/2 length. The 5-year-old Vercingetorix gelding finished seventh in the July and third, behind Dave the King, in their previous
Time Business News
18-07-2025
- Time Business News
Exploring the Popularity of Turf Racing
Horse racing has been a beloved sport for centuries, celebrated for its speed, elegance, and competitive spirit. Among the various types of horse racing surfaces dirt, synthetic, and turf racing stands out as one of the most prestigious and globally admired forms. Raced on natural grass, horse turf racing has become a fan favorite and an essential part of the international horse racing scene. But what exactly makes turf racing so popular? In this article, we dive into the rise in popularity of turf racing, what sets it apart, and why it continues to captivate audiences and participants around the world. Turf racing refers to horse racing conducted on grass tracks, unlike dirt or synthetic surfaces. Turf courses are known for their natural feel, picturesque aesthetics, and smooth footing for horses. These tracks can vary in length, shape, and incline, often adding a layer of tactical depth to each race. Popular in regions like Europe, Asia, Australia, and parts of North America, turf races host some of the most celebrated events in the sport's history. Turf racing is deeply rooted in the traditions of countries like the United Kingdom, France, and Ireland, where the sport evolved centuries ago. Iconic races such as the Epsom Derby, Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, and Royal Ascot are run on grass, giving turf racing a high level of historical prestige. In regions where turf is the dominant racing surface, it's associated with elite competition, royal attendance, and classy presentation factors that elevate its image globally. There's no denying that turf tracks are visually stunning. The green backdrop, manicured landscapes, and natural setting provide a more appealing experience for spectators, both on site and watching many fans, turf racing offers a more traditional and sophisticated atmosphere compared to the gritty action of dirt tracks. From an animal welfare perspective, turf is generally considered a kinder surface for racehorses. The grass and softer ground help reduce the impact on a horse's legs and joints, lowering the risk of injury. While not without its own risks (especially on rain-soaked or yielding turf), this perceived safety contributes to turf's growing preference among trainers and owners. Turf racing is often less about raw speed and more about tactics, positioning, and timing. Horses need to navigate turns, varying track widths, and field congestion. This complexity creates races that are exciting to watch and rewarding to bet on. Jockeys must use strategic racecraft to win saving ground, judging pace, and timing the final run perfectly. This makes turf racing highly engaging for serious fans and punters. Many of the world's top breeding operations, such as Coolmore Stud, Godolphin, and Shadai Farm, focus heavily on turf bloodlines. As a result, the Thoroughbreds bred specifically for turf racing are often considered the crème de la crème of the sport. In addition, major trainers and owners from Europe, Japan, and Australia concentrate their efforts on turf racing, which further enhances its profile internationally. Turf racing is a cornerstone of horse racing in the UK, France, and Ireland. Nearly all flat races in these countries are run on grass, and the calendar includes world-renowned festivals like Royal Ascot, The Derby, and Arc Weekend. Japan has one of the most lucrative and competitive turf racing scenes in the world. Races like the Japan Cup attract global superstars. In Hong Kong, turf racing at Sha Tin and Happy Valley draws large pools and elite horses. Australian racing is also turf-dominated. Events such as the Melbourne Cup and Cox Plate are run on grass, offering rich prizes and a passionate fanbase. While traditionally a dirt racing country, the U.S. turf racing scene has grown significantly. Tracks like Belmont Park, Keeneland, and Santa Anita Park now host major turf races, including Breeders' Cup Turf events that draw international competition. Turf races often feature larger and more competitive fields, especially in Europe and Asia. For bettors, this means: More value in odds Greater potential for upsets Increased interest in form analysis and track conditions The influence of turf conditions, like firmness or softness, adds another layer of complexity, making turf racing a favorite for experienced punters seeking strategic depth. Turf racing has earned its place as one of the most exciting and prestigious forms of horse racing. With its rich history, strategic challenges, aesthetic beauty, and global popularity, it's no surprise that turf racing continues to captivate fans, breeders, and bettors alike. As the sport evolves, turf racing remains at the heart of some of the world's greatest racing moments and its future looks greener than ever. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
18-07-2025
- Time Business News
Top Turf Racetracks Around the World
Horse racing is a beloved sport with rich traditions spanning continents, but turf racing conducted on grass tracks adds a unique flavor of elegance, strategy, and prestige. Turf racetracks often host the most iconic races in the world, attracting elite horses, renowned jockeys, and massive audiences. In this article, we take a tour of the top turf racetracks around the world and explore horse race what makes each one a gem in the world of horse racing. Perhaps the most prestigious turf track in the world, Ascot is synonymous with royalty and tradition. Founded by Queen Anne, this racecourse hosts Royal Ascot, a five day event known for world class racing and high fashion. Turf conditions are meticulously maintained, offering an ideal surface for elite thoroughbreds. Famous Races: Royal Ascot King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes Queen Anne Stakes Longchamp is a picturesque turf venue with sweeping views of the Seine River. Known for its long straight and undulating course, it challenges both horse and jockey. It's best known for hosting the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, considered one of the greatest turf races in the world. Famous Races: Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe Prix Ganay Poule d'Essai des Poulains & Pouliches Home to the iconic Melbourne Cup, Flemington Racecourse is Australia's premier turf racing venue. Its wide, sweeping turns and long straight allow for a fair race, even with large fields. The spring racing carnival at Flemington is a key highlight in the Southern Hemisphere. Famous Races: Melbourne Cup Victoria Derby Emirates Stakes Nicknamed the 'Racecourse of Racecourses,' Tokyo Racecourse is Japan's largest and most celebrated turf venue. It features an expansive track with multiple configurations for turf and dirt racing. The passionate fanbase and high-stakes racing make it a spectacle to behold. Famous Races: Japan Cup Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) Tenno Sho (Autumn) Though many U.S. races are run on dirt, Santa Anita Park is a standout for its turf course. With stunning views of the San Gabriel Mountains, it provides a scenic backdrop for some of America's top turf races. Its turf layout complements European-style racing, attracting international competitors. Famous Turf Races: Breeders' Cup Turf (when hosted here) Shoemaker Mile American Oaks One of the most modern and luxurious racetracks in the world, Meydan features both dirt and turf tracks. The course hosts the Dubai World Cup Carnival, a high stakes event that attracts global attention. The turf course is fast, well kept, and designed for international competition. Famous Races: Dubai Turf Jebel Hatta Al Quoz Sprint As Ireland's most important flat racing venue, the Curragh is central to the Irish turf racing tradition. Its expansive course and rich history make it a favorite among European trainers and fans. It is home to the Irish Classics, including the Irish Derby. Famous Races: Irish Derby Irish 2000 Guineas Irish Oaks Sha Tin is a modern, world-class venue that plays a critical role in Asian turf racing. It combines high-stakes , electric crowds, and precision turf racing. International races like the Hong Kong Cup draw competitors from Europe, Japan, and Australia. Famous Races: Hong Kong Cup Queen Elizabeth II Cup Hong Kong Mile Woodbine features a unique E.P. Taylor Turf Course, known for its sweeping turns and long homestretch. It offers a variety of turf races and is an important venue for North American and international racing. Famous Races: Woodbine Mile Canadian International Northern Dancer Turf Stakes Veliefendi is Turkey's oldest and most iconic racetrack. It features a large turf course and has gained recognition for its international races. The International Racing Festival attracts top contenders from Europe and the Middle East. Famous Races: International Topkapi Trophy Bosphorus Cup Turf racetracks hold a special place in the world of horse racing. From the historic traditions of Ascot to the modern brilliance of Meydan, each track offers its own unique challenges and charm. Whether you're a bettor, breeder, or simply a fan, these top turf venues showcase the very best of global horse turf racing continues to grow in popularity across the globe, these tracks will remain at the heart of the sport's legacy, hosting thrilling finishes and unforgettable moments for generations to come. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
