It was a tremendous weekend for OTI in Europe with exciting winners in both England and France.
Fastnet Tempest contested a strong seven furlong (1400M) race down the famous straight track at Ascot in the early hours of Sunday morning. The 4YO Gelding was coming off a third at Newbury where he looked the winner before somewhat ‘shirking the task’ over the final furlong.
Sent out a 5/1 favourite at Ascot, there were high hopes for Fastnet Tempest. His trainer, William Haggas, felt the gelding was a little fresh first-up and was confident he’d settled down heading into the race.
Britain’s leading female jockey, Josephine Gordon, ensured Fastnet Tempest had cover for much of the race before exposing him late. Once clear, the gelding powered to the line, recording a 3/4L victory. Given the horse has a few quirks it was a most impressive ride.
Fastnet Tempest has now booked his ticket to Royal Ascot in late-June and we look forward to seeing a number of OTI owners over there.
Casterton is part of OTI’s 2015 package of Fastnet Rock horses named after Victorian country towns.
The 3YO colt had shown promise in his short career and franked trainer, Andre Farbe’s opinion of the horse with a very strong win over 2500M at Deauville early Monday morning. Ridden by Pierre-Charles Boudot, Casterton settled second to last before making a mid-race move and sustaining a four-wide run to win by a comfortable three length margin.
Depending on his next run, Casterton may well be aimed at the Group 1 Prix De Paris in July. There is a plethora of options for Casterton in France later in the year and down the track the colt could well grace Australia shores for our better staying races. He’s a promising colt with a bright future ahead.
OTI would like to congratulate all partners on these very exciting results.
