Captivant’s burgeoning reputation for producing precocious 2YOs took another leap forward at today’s Warwick Farm trials, with Courthezon powering to victory in Heat 10.
The Annabel and Rob Archibald-trained colt marked Captivant’s second trial winner from two runners, following in the footsteps of Capital Express, who burst onto the scene with a four-length debut trial win.
Courthezon jumped well and was settled just off the pace by jockey Zac Lloyd before being asked for more at the 300m mark. The colt responded with an impressive turn of foot down the straight, finding the line effortlessly under hands and heels. His performance was especially noteworthy given that some of Australia’s biggest stables were represented in the Heat, further highlighting Captivant’s growing influence in the juvenile ranks.
Co-trainer Annabel Archibald was delighted with the performance of the colt that she describes as the standout of their 2YO crop this season.
“We've loved this colt from day one. He's always made everything look very easy. He's got a wonderful temperament and everything he's done, he's taken in his stride.
"He's very straightforward, very athletic and did everything really professionally today.
"He'll now be set for his debut, and I think wherever we place him, he'll be hard to beat. He's been the standout of our 2YO crop right from the start."
Jockey Zac Lloyd added, “He was very nice and very impressive today. He really knows his job now.”
“He began well, I gave him a little squeeze to teach him that he needs to jump out and run, and I liked the way he came back underneath me.
“He was ready to go and he put them away nicely. He’s a lovely horse.”
Courthezon was purchased for $150,000 by Kia Ora Stud from Bhima Thoroughbreds' Magic Millions Gold Coast draft earlier this year and ticked all the boxes with the colt being an outstanding type from the Group placegetter Rayas, who has already produced 2YO stakes performer Ortega.
Captivant has made an excellent start at stud, with his progeny already shaping as promising pre-Christmas winners, mirroring the early precocity of their sire, who concluded his juvenile season with the second fastest G1 Champagne Stakes win in history.
Captivant stands at Kia Ora Stallions for a fee of $19,800 (inc GST). If you'd like to discuss mating your mare with Captivant this season, please contact Allison Sedgwick on +61 407 768 846.
Click here for more information about Captivant.
