Medaglia d’Oro colt claims South Pacific Classic

After numerous runners were withdrawn from the race, a small field of six jumped away in the Listed South Pacific Classic with Medaglia d'Oro colt Federal claiming the race in impressive fashion.

From barrier two, jockey James McDonald allowed the Godolphin colt to settle in fourth position, with the leading duo ensuring a solid pace upfront. Bidding his time, McDonald asked the colt for his effort with 200m to go, and he extended with ease, racing away to record an impressive one-and-a-quarter length win.

Bred by Darley in Australia, Federal is the first Stakes winner from the Danehill mare Virago, a half-sister to the G3 winner Steflara, both daughters of the dual G3 winner Blue Storm. Virago has a two-year-old filly by Street Cry named Xanthippe, foaled a colt in the Spring by the very same sire before being covered by Street Cry’s G2 winner Carlton House.

The progeny of Medaglia d'Oro have started the second day of The Championships in fine style with his two-year-old daughter Chachapoyas finishing second in the Listed Fernhill Handicap over 1600m.

Medaglia d’Oro is the sire of 13 G1 winners worldwide including Horse of the Year Rachel Alexandra, recent Gulfstream Park Turf Handicap winner Mshawish and the G1 Golden Slipper winner Vancouver. He stands at Jonabell Farm at a fee of $125,000 live foal, stands and nurses.