First for Phoenix as Farnan gives them inaugural homebred success in Australia

Phoenix Thoroughbreds were able to celebrate a first homebred success in Australia on Sunday, when Farnan ran out an impressive winner at Canberra on his debut.

Out of the Dubai-based owners’ Group 3-winning mare Tallow, the Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott-trained colt crossed the line five lengths clear, carrying the colours of partners Aquis Farm.

“It’s always great to have a winner, but it’s always extra special when you’ve bred them,” said Phoenix Thoroughbreds chief executive Amer Abdulaziz.

“We have big plans for our breeding operation in Australia, so to have a potentially smart winner is a welcome boost. The bloodstock industry in the country is an integral part of our business model and we hope to continue to grow our influence and success in the future."

Phoenix chief executive Amer Abdulaziz will be hoping this is the first of many such victories in AustraliaCredit: Sarah Farnsworth

He added: "Farnan’s dam, Tallow, is now in foal to The Autumn Sun, fingers crossed she will produce another winner. Congratulations to our partners Aquis on this victory, hopefully the first on many!”

Jockey Winona Costin said: “He’s a very kind horse. Even walking behind the barriers, he was nice and relaxed. He stood nicely in the barriers and flew out. The other one just wanted to take up the lead and I was happy to take the sit.

"He relaxed beautifully there, but when I asked him for an effort he had a really good turn of foot and I was able to ease him down on the line.”

A step up in class is likely for the son of Not A Single Doubt as connections eye a crack at the A$2 million (£1m/€1.23m) Magic Millions Two-Year-Old Classic.

Members can read a special report on Phoenix Thoroughbreds from Lewis Porteous byclicking here