A selection of seven- and five-year-old thoroughbreds have recently completed trial runs and racing engagements in preparation for upcoming events at various tracks in New South Wales.

Catchy Tunes, a seven-year-old gelding by The Brothers War out of Songcatcher, showed a strong preference for firm to soft tracks, boasting 34 career wins with notable performances at distances ranging from 1000 to 1200 meters. The horse was narrowly defeated in a small field race at Muswellbrook over 1100 meters, exhibiting a liking for tracks with plenty of moisture. Catchy Tunes has demonstrated consistency in early-season outings, including an undefeated record in four first-up starts and a winning effort second-up.

Cupid’s Kiss, another seven-year-old gelding, bred from Nicconi and Romance Writer (NZ), carries a career prize money exceeding $200,000. The horse has struggled to recapture form in recent starts on heavy tracks, finishing fifth over 1000 meters at Scone on May 31 and fourth in a 1200-meter race at Gulgong on June 7. While the horse has posted wins over a range of distances from 850 to 1800 meters, recent performances suggest a drop back in trip may be necessary. Cupid’s Kiss holds a 9 percent win rate and has placed in one-third of career starts.

Bethsheba, a five-year-old Sooboog mare, has demonstrated versatility across multiple track conditions, securing most of her 19 wins on soft or heavy going. The mare, with a career earning of just under $72,000, has shown solid early-season form on synthetic surfaces but has struggled to break through in recent benchmark races. After a spell, Bethsheba resumed with a recent trial at Beaumont Barrier, finishing eighth in an 800-meter heat on June 3. She is set to make her first appearance at Scone, though connections remain cautious given mixed recent results.

Sneaky Rich, a five-year-old gelding by Rich Enuff out of Too Sneaky, carries a modest earnings tally near $51,000. The sprinter has excelled at 1000 meters, winning five races at this distance and performing well in early and second-up outings. Despite having no prior starts at Scone, Sneaky Rich’s recent form suggests potential for a strong showing as he returns from a short break.

These entrants reflect a range of recent trial performances and race conditions, providing handicappers and trainers with varied indicators ahead of forthcoming race meetings. The horses display differing track preferences and fitness levels, emphasizing the importance of surface conditions and trip distances in planning their next competitive outings.