OTI is thrilled to secure high-class War Command gelding Dick Whittington in partnership with multiple Group 1 winning trainer Matt Smith.
Currently rated 108, Dick Whittington has demonstrated exceptional athletic abilities and an excellent turn of foot in his French form.
Whilst he is a lightly raced three-year-old, having only had four outings, his on-track performances have showcased his tremendous potential.
He won his first two starts in dominant fashion at St Cloud over 2100m and 2500m respectively.
In his third race, he stepped up to Group 2 level at Deauville, where he finished 4th behind Port Guillaume who is now a leading contender for this year’s Group 1 Caulfield Cup.
In his most recent start at St Cloud, he finished 3rd in a high-quality Listed race behind Godolphin owned Algiers and Aga Khan owned Zeyrek.
OTI’s European Representative John Hammond assisted in securing the promising gelding over the weekend. Hammond gave the horse a glowing endorsement, describing him as elegant and athletic, and noted that he will relish racing on top of the ground in Australia.
“His form lines are rock solid, and those with whom he has been locking horns in the two stakes races, notably Zeyrek, Port Guillaume, Pao Alto and Volkan Star are all high-class performers,” Hammond commented.
Dick Whittington is currently en route to Australia and will arrive at Matt Smith’s Warwick Farm stables in mid-November. OTI and Smith intend to settle him into his new surroundings before preparing him for the 2021 Autumn Carnival.
Matt Smith has established himself as one of Sydney’s leading trainers, with multiple Group 1 wins to his name. OTI has a strong relationship with Smith, who trains recent Group 3 winner Attorney, as well as Grey Lion and Corncrake.
Should you wish to find out more about Dick Whittington’s plans in Australia, please get in touch with us here.
