Samuel Marin

Oceanport, NJ--Only a few years removed from what seemed like a death-knell for the New Jersey Thoroughbred industry, Monmout Park enthusiastically ushered in its 80th racing season with a full house during the Oceanport oval's press conference held in Turf Club dining room. Hosted by the TDN's Christina Bossinakis, the event was attended by a solid contingent of elected officials as well as local horsemen and women. Also included among the event's highlights, Monmouth General Manager John Heims, a long-time Monmouth executive, was honored with the 2025 Virgil 'Buddy' Raines...

Arcadia Michigan Stable's Here Comes Francis, a son of the gone-too-soon Improbable, improved his record to two impressive victories from as many trips to the races, as the chestnut bossed a field of entry-level allowance rivals by 5 1/4 comprehensive lengths Saturday afternoon at Tampa Bay Downs, becoming the newest 'TDN Rising Star' for his efforts. He received an 89 Beyer Speed Figure. Having cost $100,000 at the 2023 Keeneland September sale, the Feb. 23 colt breezed his eighth of a mile in a slick :9 4/5 ahead of last...