OTI and Matt Cumani will once again partner to race three-year-old Atlante gelding, Furioso.
Furioso was initially identified by renowned New Zealand bloodstock agent Phill Cataldo. After the recommendation, OTI and Matt Cumani jumped at the chance to secure the well-bred horse.
Furioso’s combination of outstanding physical attributes, lovely temperament, and strong bloodline attracted both OTI and Matt.
“Furioso is a promising youngster. We were captivated by his quality bloodline as well as his free-flowing action and long stride. We’re looking forward to him embarking on a spring campaign once he arrives at Matt’s Ballarat stables later this month,” OTI’s CEO Terry Henderson said.
Matt Cumani’s unique training style which embodies his experiences in Europe, Australia, and America will suit Furioso. “Matt’s international training style, particularly of middle-distance and staying types, combined with the great facilities in Ballarat featuring open spaces and uphill tracks will be perfect for this horse,” said Terry.
OTI has had a longstanding relationship with the Cumani family and Terry got to know Matt well when he worked as an assistant trainer for his father Luca in Newmarket. Following encouragement from Terry, Matt moved out to Australia, establishing his training base in Ballarat. Since then, Matt has flourished, becoming one of Victoria’s rising trainers. He finished 12th on the Victorian Trainers Premiership in the 19/20 season with an excellent strike rate of 15%.
OTI and Matt’s previous partnerships have been highly successful, highlighted by Grey Lion who was Matt’s first Melbourne Cup runner and came second in the Geelong Cup in 2016.
OTI is looking forward to Furioso arriving in Victoria for an exciting spring ahead.
