No Excuse Needed’s Pedigree Primed for Smart Update

10 August 2011

Waikato’s G1 sire No Excuse Needed’s pedigree could well be in store for some sweet updates this season, should his US 3YO half-brother Higher Court (Sharmardal) continue to play his part.

The smart Darley bred and raced colt created a big impression on debut at Keenland in April, winning by some 6 six lengths.

At start two, he defeated all bar the record breaker Gantry at Belmont and on Saturday, he added another tick to his three start resume with a smart front running effort that left the nearest of his Saratoga rivals 2 ¾ lengths in his wake.

Higher Court’s 1100m turf outing time of 1:01.21 provided plenty of encouragement for trainer Thomas Albertrani.

“He turned up again with another super performance,” Albertrani told www.horseracing.com.

“I think he got a 96 Beyer (Speed Figure). I haven’t made any decisions, and I’d be curious to try him on the dirt.”

Albertrani said he would be patient with Higher Court ’s development, probably looking for an overnight turf sprint stakes later.

“He looks like he’s a very talented horse,” Albertrani said.

Prior to taking up stud duties, No Excuse Needed was a top class racehorse who followed 2YO G3 success with wins at 3 & 4 in the now G1 Royal Ascot Queen Anne Stakes & G2 Goodwood Celebration Mile and was twice G1 placed.

The Corner with Garry Chittick

It is not the easiest role, that of Chairman of our Thoroughbred Racing Board. Like all chairmanships, one’s mind is rarely not occupied with the responsibility. To our Chairman, I say thanks. A lifetime in the industry, Chairman of our largest club, it is difficult to identify someone more suited to the role.

14 May 2026

Sav’s girl Chispa targeting the Gr.1 Oaks

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