First Group One winner for Belardo

Haunui Farm shuttle stallion Belardo has recorded his first Group One win as a sire after Gold Phoenix took top-level honours when capturing the Gr.1 Frank E Kilroe Mile Stakes (1600m) at Santa Anita on Sunday for trainer Philip D'Amato.

Bred by Mighty Universe, out of the winning Mizzen Mast mare Magnifica, he is a full-sister to Gr.1 Stewards' Cup (1600m) winner Giant Treasure and Gr.2 Raven Run Stakes (1400m) victress Jibboom.

Gold Phoenix had one start in Ireland in 2021, winning a maiden contest at Dundalk for Kieran Cotter before being transferred to D'Amato last May. He won twice for new connections last year as well as placing six times from nine starts overall. 

Billy Koch, the founder of owner Little Red Feather Racing was delighted with the win.

"This horse, he showed up today. This is a preperation, Phil and his team did an amazing job and congratulations to all the partners. Winning a Group One is special,” Koch said.

Belardo was crowned Champion first-season sire in New Zealand in 2020/21, and was second on the second season sires’ list behind Vadamos in 2021/22.