André Fabre saddles up 2-year-old colt, Funambulist, for OTI and partners on Wednesday at Compiegne (R3 – 10:24pm AEST).
Having been passed in at the Arqana August Yearling Sale, John Hammond, OTI European Representative, encouraged Terry Henderson to negotiate the purchase for this well bred colt.
As the trainer of both Funambulist’ sire (New Bay) and dam (Savanne), André Fabre was the logical trainer to prepare the colt. Fabre was quick to recognise traits in their son that he saw in his parents, both of whom he prepared to to win at Group level.
“Being from a breed that excels as 3yo’s, it’s a little unusual for the colt to be presented so early in his career. However, he has not missed a beat in his preparation, so André believes that it is an ideal time for him to gain race experience. He’s an exciting proposition,” Terry Henderson said.
Hammond has monitored the colt closely and is impressed by what he sees. Noting that despite his inexperience, he holds his own when galloping alongside more seasoned stablemates from the Fabre yard.
Funambulist has taken great strides in recent weeks, with his progression giving Fabre the belief that he is ready to make his race debut. Drawn in barrier 8, Vincent Cheminaud has been engaged to ride (58kg).
It is an exciting occasion for all when a horse reaches this stage and we wish our partners the best of luck!