A Touch Of Sparkle

Courtesy Realta HRC

The second National Hunt horse we have a stake in with Realta Horse Racing Club in Ireland is a grey filly by Golan, out of Another Sparkle. On paper, Golan's 4-2-1 record from 11 races doesn't look all that impressive - good, but nothing legendary. And then you look at those races, and realize why he is held in such high regard. Running in Lord Weinstock's colours, he won the 2000 Guineas in 2001, was second in the English Derby, and third in the Irish Derby. He also won the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes in 2002, and even ran in the L'Arc and a couple of Japanese G1 races. Impressive, whichever way you look at it.

Golan's sire was Spectrum - winner of the Irish 2000 Guineas, with Blushing Groom and Red God giving him impeccable bloodlines. His dam was Highland Gift, who brought together Nijinsky and Mill Reef DNA, and picked up a 1-0-1 record from three outings before becoming a broodmare. 

A Touch Of Sparkle's dam, Another Sparkle, has a fine mix of English, French and US blood running through her veins. Her sire was Bustino, which brings Busted DNA into the equation, who carried on a proud line created by Blenheim. Her dam was Sparkling Time, with the likes of Man O'War, Djebel and Native Dancer in her blood. Another Sparkle's offspring has done well in jumping circles, so I think we have a right to expect some good results...