Darley stallion Red Ransom sired his second individual Group winner of the year on 16 February, with a commanding victory in the G3 Ford 2YO Classic for his son Ransom Express at New Plymouth, New Zealand.
The Australian-bred colt, who recorded a comfortable two-and-a-half-length win on his racecourse debut on 1 February, bounded out of the stalls and set the early pace in the six-furlong contest. Settling into third, handily placed under jockey Opie Bossom, Ransom Express came three wide around the turn before scorching down the home straight to move clear of his rivals close to home and win by a length-and-a-quarter.
Trainer Mark Walker indicated that his charge will now head for the G1 Ford Diamond Stakes on 8 March, before trying to emulate Cape Cross's son Kindacross in the G1 Sires’ Produce Stakes later in the month. Incidentally, Kindacross (also partnered by Opie Bossom) won the 2YO Classic himself before his outstanding win in the Sires’ Produce back in 2005.
Ransom Express is the first foal out of the G3-placed mare Diamond Hill, herself a daughter of G1 winner Royal Tiara.
Red Ransom, who has also sired G3 winner Acoustical and Black type performer Meer Kat this year, stands at Dalham Hall Stud at a fee of £25,000 October 1st SLF. For further information, please contact our Nominations Team on +44 1638 730070
