Big Duke, a consistent son of Raven’s Pass, recorded his first Stakes victory on 22 February when taking the Launceston Cup over 12 furlongs in a thrilling win.
Entering the race as favourite, the Darren Weir-trained five-year-old was settled wide towards the rear of the field and began to make his run around the final corner. Showing great determination, Big Duke drew clear in the straight for a strong finish a length ahead of G3 Hobart Cup winner and tough contender Count Da Vinci.
Bred by Richard Pegum, Big Duke is out of the Polish Precedent mare Hazarayna, who is a half-sister to G3 winners Hazariya and Hazarista.
Raven’s Pass has sired 16 Black type performers to date, including impressive 2016 European Free Handicap winner Ibn Malik. Big Duke becomes one of seven individual Group winners for his sire, joining top-performing G2 Hungerford Stakes hero Richard Pankhurst and G3 Premio Ribot winner Greg Pass.
Raven's Pass stands at Kildangan Stud at a fee of €12,000 October 1st SLF.
