Topic: Ralph Nicks

The Hong Kong Derby produced a thrilling finish, the "old guy" ruled in the Essex Handicap at Oaklawn Park, a potential "new shooter" emerged for the Preakness Stakes and Breeders's Cup also-rans returned to action.

The Dubai World Cup Carnival kicks off its eight-week run Friday with racing that will identify candidates for the $20 million Saudi Cup, the World Cup itself and other major races.

Make It Big jumped into the Kentucky Derby picture with a weekend victory while the first big weekend of the new year started to shape up at Gulfstream Park with prep races for next month's Grade I Pegasus World Cup.

Hot Rod Charlie and Midnight Bourbon went at it again in the $1 million Pennsylvania Derby with yet another controversy attached.

The possibilities inherent in Thoroughbred racing were on full display during the weekend as Breeders' Cup berths went to classy turf vet Channel Maker and recent $40K claimer C Z Rocket.

Tiz the Law swept to a convincing win in the Travers Stakes at Saratoga during the weekend, confirming his status as the favorite for the Sept. 5 Kentucky Derby.

Kentucky Derby prospects Sole Volante and Ete Indien faced off at Gulfstream Park this week and last year's Belmont Stakes winner was defeated in a comeback bid in New York.

Enforceable wins at Fair Grounds and Liam's Lucky Charm victorious at Tampa Bay put them in the Kentucky Derby picture.

One Bad Boy came from California to win the Queen's Plate in Canada while the 2017 Plate winner takes a big race on the same card; Breeders' Cup qualifier in Florida and plenty of other weekend action.

A remarkable Breeders' Cup presages much more racing excitement around the world in the coming months; meanwhile, there was lots more excitement on tracks around the world during the weekend.