Fastnet Latina made his Australian race debut today at Terang. Given the lengths he has travelled to get here, it was most satisfying to see him dominate in such a manner.
Fastnet Latina was born in Ireland. He is a son of Fastnet Rock and La Chunga. La Chunga, by More Than Ready and a Group 3 winner herself in England, had already produced the Listed winner, Roheryn. From the family of an American Group 1 Derby winner named Steve’s Friend, this young colt had much to live up to.
With OTI buying into the colt as a yearling, he transferred to the USA. He was entrusted to Christophe Clement in New York and developed into a racehorse. Soon after his 3rd birthday, he made his racetrack debut. He would start three times at Gulfstream Park for Clement, working to the line over the concluding stages strongly on each occasion. Whilst not winning, he showed us he had ability.
Following the identification of a tendon issue, Fastnet Latina was brought to Australia. After successful rehabilitation with Lee Evison, he moved to Archie Alexander in Ballarat. From the day he arrived, his progression thrilled Archie. A quiet jump out at Ballarat in mid-January proved him ready for his first Australian start.
He now finds himself at Terang, more than 17,000kms from his birthplace. Yet to win a race, and having recovered from a tendon, we remain confident leading in. He duly salutes, in a manner that suggests that there are better wins in store. A most satisfying victory for all concerned.
A replay of Fastnet Latina’s win at Terang today can be accessed through racing.com.