Vadamos colt Catena Zapata is OTI’s latest addition to their portfolio of Irish horses.
Catena Zapata first caught the eye of astute bloodstock agent, Hubie de Burgh, after an outstanding trial performance in September. He identified the colt to OTI and two career starts later, including a run at 1400m and an impressive win over 1600m, the OTI team secured the colt.
OTI’s General Manager Shayne Driscoll said the team saw great potential in Catena Zapata and were delighted to acquire him.
“We had our eye on him for a little while but wanted to see him confirm his talent. His game maiden win at Dundalk in December, where he kicked off the bend and stayed on well cemented our decision,” Driscoll said.
In this run, Catena Zapata demonstrated his excellent turn of foot, running his last 400m in 22.6 seconds.
“Funnily enough the way we acquired him was somewhat reminiscent of how we purchased Tom Melbourne six years ago, even down to running at the same track. We’re hoping he can follow in Tom’s footsteps, hopefully with a few more wins rather than seconds though!” he added.
Irish flat and jumps trainer Henry de Bromhead has trained the colt since he was a yearling and identified his talent early in his career. Bromhead has indicated that the colt will be targeted towards the 3yo Classics later this year.
“He did it nicely & improved a lot from the first day when he was very raw. The step up to 1m suited. He’s a lovely big horse, a lovely mover & should go 10f no problem next year. He’s one that should progress again” @wjlee24786 Catena Zapata @DundalkStadium @HenrydeBromhead
— Irishracing.com Live (@IrishRacing365) December 16, 2020
First season sire Vadamos has had an excellent start to his stallion career, with his progeny having a strike rate of 9%. Bloodlines on the colt’s dam side are also solid, with his unraced dam Pretty Priceless having already produced a multiple 1200m winner. Additionally, her half-brother, Drawnfronthepast, won 16 races in England and France.
OTI is looking forward to racing this exciting colt with Henry de Bromhead in Ireland. Should you wish to find out more about Catena Zapata’s plans, please contact us here.
