The high-class quality racehorse Ceolwulf had a sensational 2024 spring in Sydney, with back-to-back wins in the time honoured 1600 metre group one features the Epsom Handicap and King Charles III Stakes. Twelve months on he doubled up winning the 2025 King Charles.

Bought by Kingmakers founder Leighton Howl and trainer Danica Guy out of the 2009 Karaka Ready to Run Sale for $17,500. The unfashionable, yet flashy Rios sired gelding won his first race, a Group One, as a maiden. Then on sold to Hong Kong interests he won five more at Sha Tin.

Miss Keepsake, by sire Keeper and trained by Matamata's Andrew Scott flew to the winter wonderland of Queensland in June, winning the 2400m Oaks and running an unlucky 3rd in the Derby one week later. Both races were held at Eagle Farm with jockey Chris Munce onboard.

The Karaka Million 3YO race is one of the best races on the NZ calendar and Kingmakers Leighton Howl specifically picked the Karaka Book 2 Satono Aladdin colt with that specific race in mind, and with the lofty end goal of selling him to Hong Kong Interests.

Purchased from Waikato Stud for $8,000. AKA Fred was a super fast gelding that broke the Te Rapa 1200m track record in a stunning 1.08.82.

Mach Schnell started his race career at Ruakaka and went on to taste multiple success at Randwick for his 10 lucky owners. Purchased from Karaka Book 1, the son of Zacinto had a checkered early career.

Racing plans need to be adaptable. The story of race horse Arraignment illustrates how Leighton Howl’s syndicates can successfully evolve with patience and good planning.

Holding your nerve until the last door opens. Shamexpress pinhook 'Shambles' finds his new home in Hong Kong after two trial wins for a group of Auckland owners.