Halfway Line (GB)

   In this series, the TDN takes a look at notable successes of European-based sires in North America. This week's column is highlighted by the victories of Halfway Line and City Exile, both trained by Phil D'Amato, at Del Mar.   Zoffany Gelding Strikes At Del Mar James Downey's stakes-placed Halfway Line (GB) (Zoffany {Ire}) took three tries, but came away with his first American win at Del Mar for trainer Phil D'Amato in late July (video). Bred by Juddmonte Farms, the 4-year-old gelding won thrice and placed in the...

Observations on the European Racing Scene turns the spotlight on the best European races of the day, highlighting well-pedigreed horses early in their careers, horses of note returning to action and young runners that achieved notable results in the sales ring. Tuesday's Observations features the eagerly-awaited seasonal debut of a 'TDN Rising Star'. 2.25 Saint-Cloud, Cond, €28,000, 3yo, c/g, 8fT VALIMI (FR) (Teofilo {Ire}) has already flashed talent last term and makes his 3-year-old bow for The Aga Khan and Jean-Claude Rouget in this Prix Comrade won 12 months ago...

Jean-Claude Rouget unveiled another TDN Rising Star at ParisLongchamp on Thursday as Nurlan Bizakov's Padishakh (Fr) (Wootton Bassett {GB}--Penny Lane {Ger}, by Lord Of England {Ger}) scored with abundant promise in the Prix de Fontenoy over a mile for colts and gelding beginners. Anchored in fifth early by Cristian Demuro, the 100-30 second favourite tended to over-race but when asked to stretch two out found a 10.94 penultimate split to reach the Wertheimers' Speechman (Kingman {GB}) on the front end. Stretching away from the furlong pole, the bay hit the...