Straight Talk - The Straight

New stallions, made in Australia and imported from overseas, plus interviews with Kylie Rogers, Brett Gilding and Ryan McEvoy

Welcome to the latest episode of Straight Talk, featuring Bren O'Brien and Tim Rowe from The Straight. Proudly sponsored by Darley and Inglis.
In this edition, Tim and Bren explore insights into new stallions both domestic and imported. Ryan McEvoy from Rosemont Stud sheds light on the recent success of Schwarz and Tim talks about Coolmore and Arrowfield's new additions. 
Also, Brett Gilding from Inglis gives a preview of the highly anticipated Easter Yearling Sale.
The episode offers an update on Rosehill and has a closer look at the economics of racing clubs, with Kylie Rogers' strategies for revitalising the Victoria Racing Club showcasing the challenges and opportunities of modern-day race management.
The hosts further delve into wagering trends, identifying the most bet-on races in Australia and examining the role of international betting companies like Bet365 in the local and global markets.
Whether you're an avid racing fan or new to the scene, this episode provides comprehensive insights into the current pulse of Australian racing.

Rosehill, Peter McGauran and the unanswered questions, plus Bella Nipotina and selling the farm

Welcome to this week's episode of Straight Talk, hosted by Bren O'Brien and Tim Rowe, with support from sponsors Inglis and Darley.
This episode dives deep into the biggest topic the racing world: the potential sale of Rosehill Racecourse. Amidst strong opposition from factions such as Save Rosehill, and proponents led by ATC chairman Peter McGauran, the episode unravels the complexities of this billion-dollar proposal and the upcoming member vote that could decide its fate.
Bren and Tim also explore other pivotal topics in the racing industry.
They share insights on the upcoming sale of the celebrated racehorse Bella Nipotina, with an interview with owner Michael Christian, and discuss the challenges faced by smaller to medium breeders, with a chat with Canning Downs' Joy Mackay.  
The appointment of Andrew Hore-Lacy as CEO of Thoroughbred Breeders Australia and his expected impact is also a focus.
The episode concludes by highlighting the developments in the world of wagering, with smaller bookmakers getting a reprieve on racing data fees amidst broader financial challenges in the betting landscape.

Henry Plumptre on Joliestar and Cambridge Stud's ambitions plus Godolphin's big weekend and Rosehill latest

Welcome to this week's episode of Straight Talk with Bren O'Brien and Tim Rowe, proudly sponsored by Darley and Inglis.
Join us as we recap a significant weekend for Cambridge Stud with CEO Henry Plumtree, discussing Joliestar's impressive victory in the Newmarket Handicap and her future racing ambitions.
Dive into the world of breeding and sales with insights from Harry Bailey on the upcoming Inglis breeding sales.
We also delve into the weekend's racing highlights, including Godolphin's recent triumphs and Super Seth's success story.
Finally, explore the evolving wagering landscape in Australia and the potential emergence of a fourth major bookmaker. 

Johnny McKeever interview, Melbourne Premier review, Maher stable changes and wagering in flux

Welcome to this week's edition of Straight Talk with Bren O'Brien and Tim Rowe, now proudly sponsored by Inglis and Darley.
This episode features an insightful interview with renowned bloodstock figure Johnny McKeever, who shares the extraordinary journey of Dom Sutton's swift rise as a trainer, as well as the potential return of Too Darn Hot to Australia.
In our market analysis, we reflect on the unexpected success of the Inglis Melbourne Premier Sale, discussing trends and highlights that surprised both vendors and buyers.
The episode also delves into the unfolding stud battle for Rivellino and the implications of the New South Wales Government's review of the Thoroughbred Racing Act following recent controversies.
Stay tuned as we explore the latest changes in the racing industry, including the resignation of Ciaron Maher Racing's CEO and the impact of rising commissions on wagering, highlighting Betfair's adjustments amid a softening Australian market.
Join us for all this and more on a dynamic journey through the current landscape of horse racing.

Jim Clarke on Bjorn Baker's streak plus Melbourne Premier, PointsBet takeover and so much more

In this week's episode of Straight Talk, join Bren O'Brien and Tim Rowe as they delve into a host of subjects including Melbourne's Premier Yearling Sale.
Special guest and bloodstock agent Jim Clarke shares insights into the remarkable winning streak of trainer Bjorn Baker and discusses the current state of the yearling market.
The episode also highlights intriguing stallion deals and explores real estate opportunities impacting the racing industry in New South Wales.
There is also an explainer on what is going on with the PointsBet takeover. 
Stay tuned for insights into the ongoing wagering stories and remember the legacy of the celebrated trainer Mike Moroney.

Is the WA industry in its own bubble? Entain departures, Tabcorp looking up and changes at Ciaron Maher Racing

In this week's edition of Straight Talk, hosts Bren O'Brien and Tim Rowe delve into the world of bloodstock, racing and wagering.
Broadcasting from the Magic Millions event in Perth, Tim offers a firsthand account of the unique dynamics in Western Australia's racing market. Special guest David Houston shares his perspective on the local industry and its current trajectory.
The episode further explores the ramifications of Yulong's recent acquisition of Angel Capital, highlighting its strategic importance amid an evolving market.
In the wagering sector, the focus shifts to organisational shifts at Entain and the promising half-year results from Tabcorp under new leadership.
Additionally, listeners are updated on the latest adjustments within Ciaron Maher's racing operations and the ongoing political discourse in New South Wales' racing governance.
This episode not only provides valuable insights into the horse racing sphere but also underscores the significance of strategic partnerships and leadership in harnessing market opportunities.

Inglis Classic review, crown land moves for Racing NSW, a key appointment for RV and wagering exits

This week's episode of Straight Talk with Bren O'Brien and Tim Rowe delves into the reaction from the Inglis Classic Sale, where Tim shares his firsthand observations on the mood and market dynamics and we ask the question, does Australia have too many yearlings catalogued for sale?
We also look at Racing NSW's moves to secure crown land management of several racecourses. What does it mean and what does it tell us about the possible future for the role of racing clubs across Australia. 
We also reveal a new key appointment for Racing Victoria and ponder where Blake Shinn sits among the best of Australia's jockeys.  
We also explore the exit of key players in the wagering world, spotlighting industry shifts in the UK and their potential global reverberations.
The conversation extends to how gambling advertisements are increasingly coming under fire, prompting regulatory discussions across different markets. Join us for an engaging dialogue on the latest developments shaping the racing and wagering landscapes.

Inglis Classic Sale preview with Sebastian Hutch, plus new NZTR boss and wagering takeovers

In this week's episode of Straight Talk, hosts Bren O'Brien and Tim Rowe are joined by Sebastian Hutch, CEO of Inglis Bloodstock, to delve into the eagerly anticipated Inglis Classic Sale.
As Inglis' first yearling sale of the season kicks off, they discuss market expectations and the evolution of this significant sale over the years.
The conversation also shifts to the global bloodstock scene, examining the impact of the late Aga Khan's contributions, and what his passing means for the industry worldwide.
Additionally, the episode covers major industry news, including the appointment of a new CEO for New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing. With Matt Ballesty stepping into the role, the discussion touches on his background and the strategic challenges he faces in steering the organisation towards growth and modernisation.
As racing dynamics shift, they explore how these changes influence markets, investors, and the future of racing.
Also on the agenda is the recent acquisition of TopSport by rival bookmaker betr. 

Karaka Book 1 wrap - Prowess' sister sells for $1.1 million

In this episode of Straight Talk with Bren O'Brien and Tim Rowe, we dive into the recently concluded NZB Yearling Sale Book 1 sale, offering insights into its significance for New Zealand's racing industry.
The discussion emphasises the surge in local investments, highlighted by notable sales such as the $2.4 million purchase of Orchestral's sister, and the $1.1 million paid for the sister to Prowess. 
Despite a slight dip in overall aggregate and average prices compared to last year, confidence in the market remains robust.
Join us as we explore interviews with key players and industry leaders, including NZB CEO Andrew Seabrook, trainer Roger James and breeder Mark Baker, who share their perspectives on the sale. the market's health and upcoming trends.
With New Zealand buyers outspending Australians, the episode sheds light on the growing influence of local participants and the promising future of the industry.
Discussed are the standout purchases, the impact of prominent stallions, and what lies ahead in the yearling sales season for breeders and buyers alike.

Record-Breaker at Karaka - Orchestral's $2.4 million sister

In this special edition of Straight Talk, join hosts Bren O'Brien and Tim Rowe as they dive into a record-breaking day at the New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sales held at Karaka.
With Tim on the ground and Bren providing insights, they unravel the excitement and high stakes of the event where top filly fetched $2.4 million.
Tim spoke to Sarah Green from Barnswood Farm, who reflected on her emotional journey from the loss of her father at a young age to breeding a $2.4 million filly.
Tim and Bren discuss the ongoing demand for premium fillies, notable buyers, and the market dynamics that continue to drive excitement and competition in the thoroughbred world.
There is also a feature interview with bloodstock agent Guy Mulcaster as well as a chat with Kane Jones of NZB about the record-breaking day and how he feels the sale is progressing. 
Don't miss our analysis on the health and future of the yearling sales, along with key interviews from industry insiders.