Almanac Tributes: An interview with Jack Styring

A genuine legend of the Australian turf, the racing gods declared correct weight on the life of renowned racecaller Jack Styring with his passing on February 9th, at the grand age of 92. Recorded back in 2014, Jack graciously opened his home to John Harms and Steve Baker to reflect on his time behind the microphone and the binoculars.

Almanac Athletics: Track Scars

Our own Jake ‘Cobba’ Stevens was fast enough to compete at the 2021 Australian Track & Field Championships in Sydney. In the semi-finals of the 800m event, Cobba got to experience the full range of emotions that competitive racing can bring for aspiring Olympians.

Almanac Racing – The mathematics of dish-licker calling

According to Lee Harradine, the world of greyhound racing commentary is due an overhaul…You have 25 seconds to call a race. How wisely are those precious seconds used?

Round 1 – …and Horse Racing: Sal’s Preview – A busy return to action

Sal Ciardulli is back for 2021 with a massive preview of the AFL’s opening round and the weekend racing action.

Almanac Horseracing: Melbourne Cup – Sal’s Preview: Are we in for a big surprise? Yeah Baby yeah!

We’ve jumped from Grand Finals into the Melbourne Cup via Derby Day in record time. Sal Ciardulli’s been up for the challenge of 2020 since the get go, he gives his previews for the final time in an extraordinary year.

Almanac Footy: Gazza and that jab

After watching Gary Ablett Jnr’s brave efforts to return to the field in his last match after a shoulder injury, davidtpb questions the rules regarding jabs and their place in the modern game.

Almanac Horseracing: A boy, his mare and The Cup

Looking forward to the upcoming Spring Racing Carnival, Nicole Kelly gives an intriguing insight into the life of Peter St. Alban’s (a terrific story – Ed).

Almanac Racing – Guineas Day

Caulfield Guineas day is upon us. Four Group One races and a smattering of black-type makes it one of the marquee meetings of the Victorian spring. Sydney is trying to steal the spotlight by introducing The Everest – the richest race on turf in the world. Tom Riordan gives an overview of a blockbuster Saturday.

If Nick Kyrgios was a horse?

The most frustrating racehorses have stacks of ability but turn their head and refuse to chase when the whips are cracking. Peter Baulderstone wonders how Tommy Smith or George Hanlon would have handled Nick Kyrgios.

Almanac Racing – Almandin’s return

Can you smell that? Spring is on its way and some of the better horses about are resuming after their winter break

Almanac Racing – Spring is in the air

A taste of Winter sun has Tom Riordan thinking of Spring. A nine race card at Flemington, and Oscietra, foal of Black Caviar, having her second start at Geelong on Friday, are the highlights of the weekend’s racing. Add your tips in the comments.

Almanac Racing – Winter Championships

Tom Riordan seeks some value at Flemington for the Winter Championships meeting on Saturday.

Almanac Racing – A week of Payne

Michelle Payne has been suspended for testing positive a banned substance, but her reputation might have been enhanced. Tom Riordan explains an unpredictable week in racing.

Almanac Racing – A stab at the quaddie

There are some big races at Flemington this Saturday and Tom Riordan has his tips ready.

Almanac Racing: Creative ways to stay warm

As winter sets in, Tom Riordan admires those who rely on punting to stay warm.

Almanac Racing – Eagle Farm’s qualms and the return of the Valley

Queensland racing is experiencing a crisis, after the inadequate track conditions at Eagle Farm led to the stripping of its remaining two feature meetings.

Almanac Racing: Sandown Jumpers and Brisbane’s Carnival

The Australian Hurdle and Australian Steeple headline Saturday at Sandown, while Black Heart Bart heads to Eagle Farm seeking to win another Group One.

Almanac Racing – Extra Zero tons up on the VRC’s Hall of Fame day

Plenty of action around the country this weekend as Tom Riordan picks a winner or two.

Almanac Racing: Extra Zero nears the ton

Flemington tomorrow hosts a mundane meeting, propped up by the old marvel Extra Zero having his 99th start. Morphettville steals most of the quality to fill two group one races and a couple of group twos.

Almanac Racing: Where to look?

Tom Riordan casts his eye over the classy meetings around Australia this Saturday.