Stallion's Name Out to be Made Proud in Lightning Stakes
Can an Obscure Pedigree Produce a Stakes Winner?
The world of horse racing is full of intriguing stories, and this weekend’s Listed Lightning Stakes at Morphettville features one particularly compelling narrative: the chance for largely forgotten stallion, Tamasa, to make his mark. A talented daughter of his, the filly Cicala, is poised to run, carrying the hopes of a small stable and the potential to elevate a sire whose stud career was cut drastically short.
- Tamasa's Legacy: A son of So You Think, Tamasa had a brief and unsuccessful stint at stud, covering only four mares.
- Cicala's Untapped Potential: This filly's unbeaten racing record and impressive trial performances have generated significant buzz.
- Obscure Pedigree, Latent Ability: Despite her unusual lineage, Cicala has shown remarkable talent and has thrived since her last win.
- Wet Track Advantage: The predicted heavy track conditions are expected to suit Cicala’s running style.
- Local Hope: Cicala is considered the best of the local horses competing in the Lightning Stakes.
A Brief but Bright Career
Tamasa’s story is one of what might have been. Trained by the renowned Darren Weir and Lindsey Smith, he won five races and achieved Group 3 placing in Perth before a short and ultimately disappointing stint at stud. His limited opportunities meant he barely had a chance to make an impact as a sire. Now, his daughter, Cicala, offers a second chance to showcase the potential inherited from her father.
The Discovery of a Talent
The Will Clarken and Niki O’Shea-trained filly’s rise to prominence is as interesting as her pedigree. Stable Racing Manager Lachie Weekley explained that Cicala was purchased from her original trainer, Jackson Matthews, based on several impressive trial performances. "Jackson had a couple in work and was going to do something else (stop training) and he mentioned to us to have a look at her," Weekley recounted. The stable recognized latent ability and decided to take a chance, a decision that has already proven fruitful.
Facing the Competition
Victorian filly Fieldelo is currently the favourite for the Lightning Stakes, but Cicala is rated as the best of the local horses at $6. The predicted heavy conditions are expected to favor Cicala, and her wide draw is also anticipated to be advantageous later in the day. “We’re really looking forward to Saturday and the wet ground holds no fears,” Weekley said. Rochelle Milnes will be in the saddle, and is almost certainly to be crowned Adelaide's Premiership-winning jockey on Saturday.
Looking Ahead
Cicala's performance in the Lightning Stakes is more than just a race; it's a potential turning point for the legacy of Tamasa. Regardless of the outcome, her story highlights the unpredictable nature of both racing and breeding, and the enduring hope that even from an obscure lineage, a champion can emerge. The racing world will be watching closely to see if this talented filly can live up to the potential of her father and etch her name in the history books.