Coolmore chief outlines Guest House, St Gotthard plans

Coolmore Australia boss Tom Magnier has revealed Guest House is being targeted for an autumn return, while expressing confidence in the Australian breeding industry and highlighting the operation’s leading stallions ahead of the upcoming sales season.

Magnier joined Gareth Hall on SENTrack & RSN’s Giddy Up on Wednesday morning to discuss Guest House’s recovery from a near-hind hamstring injury, the breeding market and Coolmore’s hopes of adding another major Group 1 success to its record.

Guest House is expected to spend an extended period on box rest after sustaining a hamstring injury, with connections working towards getting the horse back to the races in the autumn.

“The plan to bring him back in the autumn,” Magnier said.

“He will be on box rest for a while after sustaining that injury. The horse has a lovely temperament, so we are confident in that respect.

“Speaking to (co-trainer) Mick Price, it’s sounding like it might take some time, we will be doing our best to get him back in time.”

Turning his attention to the breeding industry, Magnier acknowledged some negativity surrounding the current market but urged Australian breeders to remain committed, pointing to the strength of international sales.

“I suppose at the moment people are a little negative on the breeding economy, I’ve seen that happen overseas, you only have to look at the sales in America and Europe to realise that they’re smashing it out of the park,” he said.

“I think it’s important that people keep breeding their mares, because when the tables turn they will be the people up at the Magic Millions popping corks.”

Magnier remained bullish about the broader Australian racing landscape, describing the industry as one of the strongest globally.

“Racing is healthy here, if not the healthiest in the world,” he said.

Coolmore’s stallion roster also remains a major source of optimism, with Magnier particularly impressed by the early results and interest surrounding Switzerland and Super Seth.

“Switzerland is having the best foals in my whole time being involved in Coolmore during my time in Australia,” Magnier said.

“Super Seth’s going unbelievable, the names lining up outside his room every day would make James Bond jealous.

“On top of that, everyone who comes to see Super Seth absolutely loves him.”

Magnier was quick to acknowledge the contribution of breeders, staff and their families to Coolmore’s success, stressing that the operation’s achievements rely on support well beyond its leading horses.

“You can’t make all this happen without having the support from the breeders that we do,” he said.

“Nothing can happen at Coolmore globally without the staff and the families that support them.”

Attention will also turn to St Gotthard, with Magnier revealing Chris Waller and James McDonald are pleased with the three-year-old colt ahead of an important assignment - the Coolmore Stud Stakes.

“Chris and James are very happy with St Gotthard,” he said.

“If St Gotthard could win that, we would be very happy getting on the plane the next day to head to the sales in America.”

Coolmore will also be hoping to add another victory in the prestigious Coolmore Stud Stakes, having previously tasted success with Merchant Navy.

“We have been lucky enough to win the Coolmore with Merchant Navy, so we would love to win it again,” Magnier said.

With Guest House’s recovery underway and the breeding season continuing to provide opportunities, Magnier’s comments highlighted Coolmore’s focus on both the immediate racing calendar and the long-term strength of the Australian thoroughbred industry.