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Condor continued his remarkable run of form with a strong front-running victory at Wangaratta on Sunday, adding another win to his growing résumé for the Fitzsimmons Racing stable.
The five-year-old gelding has thrived since returning to Australia, and once again showed his trademark speed and toughness over the 1000 metres, proving hard to catch under a confident ride from apprentice Sage Duric.
Trainer Tim Fitzsimmons was full of praise for the gelding, who continues to exceed expectations.
“He’s been an absolute little beauty since he’s been back,” Fitzsimmons said. “He was probably the lowest-rated horse we brought back, and he just keeps knocking out wins.”
Sunday’s victory also marked a special milestone for Duric, riding her first winner for the stable.
“That was Sage’s first ride for me,” Fitzsimmons said. “I’ve known her since she was a little kid in Singapore, so I’ve been trying to find the right horse for her and today worked out perfectly. It was a great ride — she showed initiative, travelled well and finished the job. I’m rapt for Sage today.”
Condor’s consistency has become a hallmark of his racing style, even if his pattern is straightforward.
“That’s his fourth win,” Fitzsimmons added. “He’s a bit one-dimensional, but he’s a great worker. I kept him mad fresh for today. He does appreciate the sting out of the ground, so I was a little concerned about the Good 3 track, but he’s done really well.”
Duric echoed the trainer’s sentiments, crediting the gelding’s natural speed and professionalism.
“I know that he has really good gate speed and he mustered really well, so I just let him do what he does best,” she said. “To our favour, it worked out.”
The win also carried personal significance for the young jockey.
“It was great to get a win for Tim today. I’ve known Tim since I started riding trackwork for Stephen Gray,” Duric said. “It’s a bit of a full-circle moment — Dad had a lot of success with Tim in Singapore, so today was a really special win.”
With four victories now to his name in Australia, Condor continues to prove a reliable and valuable performer for the stable, rewarding owner Mr Yong once again with another determined on-pace success.
Condor continued his remarkable run of form with a strong front-running victory at Wangaratta on Sunday, adding another win to his growing résumé for the Fitzsimmons Racing stable.
The five-year-old gelding has thrived since returning to Australia, and once again showed his trademark speed and toughness over the 1000 metres, proving hard to catch under a confident ride from apprentice Sage Duric.
Trainer Tim Fitzsimmons was full of praise for the gelding, who continues to exceed expectations.
“He’s been an absolute little beauty since he’s been back,” Fitzsimmons said. “He was probably the lowest-rated horse we brought back, and he just keeps knocking out wins.”
Sunday’s victory also marked a special milestone for Duric, riding her first winner for the stable.
“That was Sage’s first ride for me,” Fitzsimmons said. “I’ve known her since she was a little kid in Singapore, so I’ve been trying to find the right horse for her and today worked out perfectly. It was a great ride — she showed initiative, travelled well and finished the job. I’m rapt for Sage today.”
Condor’s consistency has become a hallmark of his racing style, even if his pattern is straightforward.
“That’s his fourth win,” Fitzsimmons added. “He’s a bit one-dimensional, but he’s a great worker. I kept him mad fresh for today. He does appreciate the sting out of the ground, so I was a little concerned about the Good 3 track, but he’s done really well.”
Duric echoed the trainer’s sentiments, crediting the gelding’s natural speed and professionalism.
“I know that he has really good gate speed and he mustered really well, so I just let him do what he does best,” she said. “To our favour, it worked out.”
The win also carried personal significance for the young jockey.
“It was great to get a win for Tim today. I’ve known Tim since I started riding trackwork for Stephen Gray,” Duric said. “It’s a bit of a full-circle moment — Dad had a lot of success with Tim in Singapore, so today was a really special win.”
With four victories now to his name in Australia, Condor continues to prove a reliable and valuable performer for the stable, rewarding owner Mr Yong once again with another determined on-pace success.
Fitzsimmons Racing has continued to strengthen its growing roster following a successful trip to the Gold Coast Magic Millions Sale, securing three high-quality yearlings to join the stable — a beautifully bred filly by world super-sire Frankel, alongside two exciting colts by In The Congo and Star Turn.
With all three ticking the right boxes in type, pedigree and attitude, the stable couldn’t be more pleased with the acquisitions.
“We targeted horses who suit our system, horses that are well-grown, well-balanced, and come from families who perform on raceday,” trainer Tim Fitzsimmons said.
“We’re rapt with these three, they’re beautifully bred and exactly the type of horses we want representing the stable. We can’t wait to see where they take us.”
Lot 613: Frankel x No Limit Credit (GER) Filly
A daughter of the legendary Frankel, this filly carries a genetic profile rarely seen in Australian stables. Her dam No Limit Credit was a high-class race mare in Germany and belongs to a deep international black-type family, with Group winners across France, Germany and Italy.
Lot 167: In The Congo x Chipanda Colt
By In The Congo, the Group 1 Golden Rose winner and one of Australia’s most exciting young young stallions, this colt is sharp, athletic and forward in his make-up. His dam Chipanda was stakes-performed and hails from a consistently strong Australian sprinting family.
Lot 970: Star Turn x What's New Colt
By proven sire Star Turn, this colt is out of What’s New, a multiple Listed winner and Champion 4YO Mare in Singapore, and is a half-brother to Group 1 winner Sepals. The pedigree is stacked with elite performers, combining speed, toughness and proven racetrack class at the highest level.
All three yearlings will now enjoy a spell before beginning their early education programs, with owners kept updated every step of the way.
“I want to thank Wattle Bloodstock, Elvin Bloodstock and Jig Racing for their continued support and confidence in the stable,” Tim said.
“We’re only a year into our Australian return and the stable is really starting to build. These horses fit perfectly with the type we want going forward.”
Minimum 10% shares are currently available in both colts, presenting an excellent opportunity to get involved with two exciting young prospects as Fitzsimmons Racing continues to build toward long-term success.
Fitzsimmons Racing has continued to strengthen its growing roster following a successful trip to the Gold Coast Magic Millions Sale, securing three high-quality yearlings to join the stable — a beautifully bred filly by world super-sire Frankel, alongside two exciting colts by In The Congo and Star Turn.
With all three ticking the right boxes in type, pedigree and attitude, the stable couldn’t be more pleased with the acquisitions.
“We targeted horses who suit our system, horses that are well-grown, well-balanced, and come from families who perform on raceday,” trainer Tim Fitzsimmons said.
“We’re rapt with these three, they’re beautifully bred and exactly the type of horses we want representing the stable. We can’t wait to see where they take us.”
Lot 613: Frankel x No Limit Credit (GER) Filly
A daughter of the legendary Frankel, this filly carries a genetic profile rarely seen in Australian stables. Her dam No Limit Credit was a high-class race mare in Germany and belongs to a deep international black-type family, with Group winners across France, Germany and Italy.
Lot 167: In The Congo x Chipanda Colt
By In The Congo, the Group 1 Golden Rose winner and one of Australia’s most exciting young young stallions, this colt is sharp, athletic and forward in his make-up. His dam Chipanda was stakes-performed and hails from a consistently strong Australian sprinting family.
Lot 970: Star Turn x What's New Colt
By proven sire Star Turn, this colt is out of What’s New, a multiple Listed winner and Champion 4YO Mare in Singapore, and is a half-brother to Group 1 winner Sepals. The pedigree is stacked with elite performers, combining speed, toughness and proven racetrack class at the highest level.
All three yearlings will now enjoy a spell before beginning their early education programs, with owners kept updated every step of the way.
“I want to thank Wattle Bloodstock, Elvin Bloodstock and Jig Racing for their continued support and confidence in the stable,” Tim said.
“We’re only a year into our Australian return and the stable is really starting to build. These horses fit perfectly with the type we want going forward.”
Minimum 10% shares are currently available in both colts, presenting an excellent opportunity to get involved with two exciting young prospects as Fitzsimmons Racing continues to build toward long-term success.
Black Storm set the tone in the feature event, claiming the bet365 Tatura Cup (1450m) with an impressive first-up performance. Just one race later, Marty McFly kept the momentum rolling, surging home to secure back-to-back wins for both horse and stable.
Trainer Tim Fitzsimmons was full of praise for Black Storm’s return effort.
“I was really happy with Black Storm today. It was a terrific effort first-up over 1450 metres after a spell,” Tim said. “He’s a horse that continues to improve and I think he can now start working through his grades. It was a perfect ride from Teo [Nugent], and if he pulls up well, we’ll look at heading to the Werribee Cup in a couple of weeks.”
The victory was especially meaningful given the horse’s journey back from a long setback.
“It was fantastic to win our first Country Cup since returning to Australia,” Tim added. “This win is particularly rewarding for Peter Lee and the Buffalo Stables team. He’s a horse we brought back from Singapore who unfortunately suffered a foot injury over there that kept him off the scene for nearly ten months. We never got to see his full potential in Singapore, so it’s very satisfying to see him back performing well here. We’re really grateful for Peter’s ongoing loyalty and support.”
Marty McFly then kept the stable flag flying, producing a strong finish under Liam Riordan to land the final race of the day and register his second consecutive win since joining the stable.
“It’s great to get another win with Marty McFly,” Tim said. “He’s really come on since that Hamilton win and it’s pleasing to see him continue to progress. It’s also good to build some momentum for Donalds Racing too. Liam gave him a terrific ride, and the horse is just really happy within himself at the moment.”
As the double capped a standout afternoon for the stable and its ownership groups, both horses now look poised to continue rising through their grades, making it an exciting time ahead for Fitzsimmons Racing.
Black Storm set the tone in the feature event, claiming the bet365 Tatura Cup (1450m) with an impressive first-up performance. Just one race later, Marty McFly kept the momentum rolling, surging home to secure back-to-back wins for both horse and stable.
Trainer Tim Fitzsimmons was full of praise for Black Storm’s return effort.
“I was really happy with Black Storm today. It was a terrific effort first-up over 1450 metres after a spell,” Tim said. “He’s a horse that continues to improve and I think he can now start working through his grades. It was a perfect ride from Teo [Nugent], and if he pulls up well, we’ll look at heading to the Werribee Cup in a couple of weeks.”
The victory was especially meaningful given the horse’s journey back from a long setback.
“It was fantastic to win our first Country Cup since returning to Australia,” Tim added. “This win is particularly rewarding for Peter Lee and the Buffalo Stables team. He’s a horse we brought back from Singapore who unfortunately suffered a foot injury over there that kept him off the scene for nearly ten months. We never got to see his full potential in Singapore, so it’s very satisfying to see him back performing well here. We’re really grateful for Peter’s ongoing loyalty and support.”
Marty McFly then kept the stable flag flying, producing a strong finish under Liam Riordan to land the final race of the day and register his second consecutive win since joining the stable.
“It’s great to get another win with Marty McFly,” Tim said. “He’s really come on since that Hamilton win and it’s pleasing to see him continue to progress. It’s also good to build some momentum for Donalds Racing too. Liam gave him a terrific ride, and the horse is just really happy within himself at the moment.”
As the double capped a standout afternoon for the stable and its ownership groups, both horses now look poised to continue rising through their grades, making it an exciting time ahead for Fitzsimmons Racing.
Having his second start since joining the Fitzsimmons Racing stable, Marty McFly showed the benefit of recent gear adjustments and a patient approach, settling nicely before finishing strongly to score by more than three lengths.
“It’s fantastic to get our first win in the Donald’s Racing colours,” Tim said. “They’ve been terrific to work with and really share our enthusiasm for getting the best out of these horses. It’s great to deliver a result for them today.”
For long-time owners Julio and Nick, who have been oncourse for every run of the horse’s career, the victory was a particularly rewarding moment. Their commitment and patience were finally repaid with a well-earned breakthrough win.
Trainer Tim Fitzsimmons was full of praise for both the horse and his jockey.
“It was a perfect ride from Jack,” Tim said. “I said to him before the race that I’d love you to take a sit with him today and let him travel. He thinks a little bit, but the blinkers looked to have done the trick today and hopefully he can go on with it now.”
Hill, who also rode the stables first Australian winner, returned the compliment.
“Tim has done all the work with the horse, I was just the lucky pilot who sat on him,” Hill said. “He drew the right gate, was in the right race, blinkers on, track conditions to suit. I liked the way he ran through the line today. At his previous start he did a bit of work out wide, but he was weakening, so I like the way he ran through the line today. The blinkers have really helped him focus up on his job and hopefully he can win a couple more now for the owners.”
Hill also noted Marty McFly’s fighting spirit in the run.
“He’s the kind of horse you’ve got to make do what you want, but every time I gave him a slap, he was there for me. And if something had come for him, he would’ve gone again.”
For Fitzsimmons, who continues to build momentum in his first full season training from Bendigo, it was another pleasing milestone.
“It’s great to get another win for the team,” he said. “We’ve been getting horses fit and settled into our system, and this win shows we’re heading in the right direction.”
Marty McFly now looks set to continue progressing through the grades with plenty of speed, heart, and a name that seems destined for headlines.
Having his second start since joining the Fitzsimmons Racing stable, Marty McFly showed the benefit of recent gear adjustments and a patient approach, settling nicely before finishing strongly to score by more than three lengths.
“It’s fantastic to get our first win in the Donald’s Racing colours,” Tim said. “They’ve been terrific to work with and really share our enthusiasm for getting the best out of these horses. It’s great to deliver a result for them today.”
For long-time owners Julio and Nick, who have been oncourse for every run of the horse’s career, the victory was a particularly rewarding moment. Their commitment and patience were finally repaid with a well-earned breakthrough win.
Trainer Tim Fitzsimmons was full of praise for both the horse and his jockey.
“It was a perfect ride from Jack,” Tim said. “I said to him before the race that I’d love you to take a sit with him today and let him travel. He thinks a little bit, but the blinkers looked to have done the trick today and hopefully he can go on with it now.”
Hill, who also rode the stables first Australian winner, returned the compliment.
“Tim has done all the work with the horse, I was just the lucky pilot who sat on him,” Hill said. “He drew the right gate, was in the right race, blinkers on, track conditions to suit. I liked the way he ran through the line today. At his previous start he did a bit of work out wide, but he was weakening, so I like the way he ran through the line today. The blinkers have really helped him focus up on his job and hopefully he can win a couple more now for the owners.”
Hill also noted Marty McFly’s fighting spirit in the run.
“He’s the kind of horse you’ve got to make do what you want, but every time I gave him a slap, he was there for me. And if something had come for him, he would’ve gone again.”
For Fitzsimmons, who continues to build momentum in his first full season training from Bendigo, it was another pleasing milestone.
“It’s great to get another win for the team,” he said. “We’ve been getting horses fit and settled into our system, and this win shows we’re heading in the right direction.”
Marty McFly now looks set to continue progressing through the grades with plenty of speed, heart, and a name that seems destined for headlines.
Fitzsimmons Racing proudly attended their first Bendigo Cup Day on Wednesday, and it was sensational to witness firsthand.
It was a fantastic day on course, with a big crowd, quality racing, and the perfect opportunity to meet so many wonderful people connected to the local racing community.
“Ladbrokes Bendigo Cup Day really showcases everything that makes this club special,” said trainer Tim Fitzsimmons. “It was great to be part of it and catch up with so many owners, supporters, and fellow trainers who make racing here such a pleasure.”
“It was also great to have the Boyles and Ellisons from the Onesmoothoperator team at Bendigo to show them our facilities and just how good Bendigo is for training and racing horses.”
While the stable didn’t have any runners on the day, the experience only strengthened their determination to play a bigger role in future Cup carnivals.
“We’re already looking ahead to next year,” Tim added. “We’re continuing to build a really strong team of horses, and we’d love to have a few flying the flag for us on Bendigo Cup Day in 2026.”
Congratulations to Paul Scullie and the entire Bendigo Jockey Club team for delivering a first-class event, and to our hosts on the day Ladbrokes, for making the Fitzsimmons Racing team feel right at home.
Fitzsimmons Racing proudly attended their first Bendigo Cup Day on Wednesday, and it was sensational to witness firsthand.
It was a fantastic day on course, with a big crowd, quality racing, and the perfect opportunity to meet so many wonderful people connected to the local racing community.
“Ladbrokes Bendigo Cup Day really showcases everything that makes this club special,” said trainer Tim Fitzsimmons. “It was great to be part of it and catch up with so many owners, supporters, and fellow trainers who make racing here such a pleasure.”
“It was also great to have the Boyles and Ellisons from the Onesmoothoperator team at Bendigo to show them our facilities and just how good Bendigo is for training and racing horses.”
While the stable didn’t have any runners on the day, the experience only strengthened their determination to play a bigger role in future Cup carnivals.
“We’re already looking ahead to next year,” Tim added. “We’re continuing to build a really strong team of horses, and we’d love to have a few flying the flag for us on Bendigo Cup Day in 2026.”
Congratulations to Paul Scullie and the entire Bendigo Jockey Club team for delivering a first-class event, and to our hosts on the day Ladbrokes, for making the Fitzsimmons Racing team feel right at home.
Blazing Sword showed his trademark grit at Bendigo on Wednesday, edging out a tight finish to land the Workforce Extensions BM62 Handicap (1600m). The win not only added another notch to the gelding’s rising record but also marked Mark Zahra’s first victory for the Fitzsimmons Racing stable.
It was a breakthrough moment for Zahra and trainer Tim Fitzsimmons, who shared plenty of close calls in Group races together during Tim’s successful stint in Singapore. On Wednesday, everything finally clicked.
Trainer Tim Fitzsimmons was delighted with the gelding’s effort, crediting the team at Nunkeri Park for their role in his preparation.
“After the last run, we gave him a bit of a freshen up and the guys at Nunkeri Park have done an amazing job getting him mentally right again. He wasn’t fully wound up today, there’s plenty of improvement left in him. There’s a race in a few weeks at Murtoa which is a qualifier for a race on Oaks Day, so that’s where we’ll go next.”
Tim also praised Zahra’s tactical ride and the joy it brought to the owners.
“It was a brilliant ride from Mark. We were really lucky to get him today and we’ve got some happy owners. I wouldn’t rule out a rise in distance in the future. I just don’t think much went right last time, but I do think a mile, where there’s a bit of speed on, probably suits him at the moment. He didn’t cost us much, he was $18,000 online and he’s been an absolute little ripper for us.”
Zahra admitted there were a few heart-in-mouth moments in the straight, but was satisfied with how Blazing Sword fought it out.
“He did a good job, pace was nice, settled back. Not knowing the horse, if I had known I would have waited longer. It might have looked like I was getting there late, but he actually got there and then wanted to duck in and half put the brakes on. He got his head down at the right time so it was a good job.”
“I think he has had enough starts now (so doesn’t need any gear changes) and you’ve just got to ride him accordingly.”
“It was a tight finish and the boys were lining up inside me yelling, so the last stride I couldn’t ride him out, I was pulling him off, but I did think I won - and luckily I did.”
With another strong performance under his belt, Blazing Sword continues to prove himself a bargain buy and a consistent performer. All eyes now turn to Murtoa and the Oaks Day pathway, where the gelding will look to sharpen his blade again.
Blazing Sword showed his trademark grit at Bendigo on Wednesday, edging out a tight finish to land the Workforce Extensions BM62 Handicap (1600m). The win not only added another notch to the gelding’s rising record but also marked Mark Zahra’s first victory for the Fitzsimmons Racing stable.
It was a breakthrough moment for Zahra and trainer Tim Fitzsimmons, who shared plenty of close calls in Group races together during Tim’s successful stint in Singapore. On Wednesday, everything finally clicked.
Trainer Tim Fitzsimmons was delighted with the gelding’s effort, crediting the team at Nunkeri Park for their role in his preparation.
“After the last run, we gave him a bit of a freshen up and the guys at Nunkeri Park have done an amazing job getting him mentally right again. He wasn’t fully wound up today, there’s plenty of improvement left in him. There’s a race in a few weeks at Murtoa which is a qualifier for a race on Oaks Day, so that’s where we’ll go next.”
Tim also praised Zahra’s tactical ride and the joy it brought to the owners.
“It was a brilliant ride from Mark. We were really lucky to get him today and we’ve got some happy owners. I wouldn’t rule out a rise in distance in the future. I just don’t think much went right last time, but I do think a mile, where there’s a bit of speed on, probably suits him at the moment. He didn’t cost us much, he was $18,000 online and he’s been an absolute little ripper for us.”
Zahra admitted there were a few heart-in-mouth moments in the straight, but was satisfied with how Blazing Sword fought it out.
“He did a good job, pace was nice, settled back. Not knowing the horse, if I had known I would have waited longer. It might have looked like I was getting there late, but he actually got there and then wanted to duck in and half put the brakes on. He got his head down at the right time so it was a good job.”
“I think he has had enough starts now (so doesn’t need any gear changes) and you’ve just got to ride him accordingly.”
“It was a tight finish and the boys were lining up inside me yelling, so the last stride I couldn’t ride him out, I was pulling him off, but I did think I won - and luckily I did.”
With another strong performance under his belt, Blazing Sword continues to prove himself a bargain buy and a consistent performer. All eyes now turn to Murtoa and the Oaks Day pathway, where the gelding will look to sharpen his blade again.
The award caps off an outstanding start for the stable since relocating from Singapore earlier this year, with consistent results, multiple winners, and a growing presence on the Victorian racing scene.
Tim was quick to share the achievement with the people who have supported the stable since its launch.
“I’d like to thank my fantastic staff. They’ve worked tirelessly since we set up in Bendigo and this award is really a reflection of their commitment and care for the horses. I’m very lucky to have such a dedicated team around me.”
“To our owners, both new and long-standing, thank you for putting your faith in us. Your support has been the backbone of what we’ve been able to achieve in such a short time and it means the world.”
Tim also acknowledged the role of the Bendigo Jockey Club in making the transition seamless.
“A big thank you also to Paul Scullie and everyone at the Bendigo Jockey Club. The way the Club has welcomed us has been first-class. We've only been here for a short time, but it already feels like home. Bendigo is a fantastic place to train and we couldn’t have asked for a better base to launch from.”
Looking ahead, Tim was optimistic about what the future holds.
“This is just the beginning. We’re looking forward to building on this momentum, having an even stronger season ahead, and continuing to grow into the future.”
On the same night, Black Storm was also recognised with the Middle Distance Horse of the Year award, a fitting reward for his consistency and toughness across the campaign.
While the evening recognised the achievements of local horses and trainers, the highlight was undoubtedly Fitzsimmons securing the Trainers Premiership in his first season back in Australia in what is hopefully a sign of what’s to come.
The award caps off an outstanding start for the stable since relocating from Singapore earlier this year, with consistent results, multiple winners, and a growing presence on the Victorian racing scene.
Tim was quick to share the achievement with the people who have supported the stable since its launch.
“I’d like to thank my fantastic staff. They’ve worked tirelessly since we set up in Bendigo and this award is really a reflection of their commitment and care for the horses. I’m very lucky to have such a dedicated team around me.”
“To our owners, both new and long-standing, thank you for putting your faith in us. Your support has been the backbone of what we’ve been able to achieve in such a short time and it means the world.”
Tim also acknowledged the role of the Bendigo Jockey Club in making the transition seamless.
“A big thank you also to Paul Scullie and everyone at the Bendigo Jockey Club. The way the Club has welcomed us has been first-class. We've only been here for a short time, but it already feels like home. Bendigo is a fantastic place to train and we couldn’t have asked for a better base to launch from.”
Looking ahead, Tim was optimistic about what the future holds.
“This is just the beginning. We’re looking forward to building on this momentum, having an even stronger season ahead, and continuing to grow into the future.”
On the same night, Black Storm was also recognised with the Middle Distance Horse of the Year award, a fitting reward for his consistency and toughness across the campaign.
While the evening recognised the achievements of local horses and trainers, the highlight was undoubtedly Fitzsimmons securing the Trainers Premiership in his first season back in Australia in what is hopefully a sign of what’s to come.
Ridden confidently by Liam Riordan, the three-year-old daughter of Bivouac used her early speed to push forward and be positive. Despite the field rolling along at a genuine tempo, she found plenty in the straight to hold off the fast-finishing Oliveanotherday, who had impressed in recent trials.
Trainer Tim Fitzsimmons was delighted with both the ride and the filly’s effort: “I thought she ran really well. She’ll continue to improve as she wasn’t fully wound up today. Great ride from Liam (Riordan) to hold on. He used her early speed, so they raced along at a good rate and held off the fast finishing Oliveanotherday, which looks a nice type from his recent trials.”
It was only her fourth career start, and Tim believes there’s more to come as she builds fitness and experience.
“She’s still learning what it’s all about. We’ll look for another 1000m race for her over the coming weeks.”
It always great to get another victory for owner Mr Yong which has been a loyal supporter of the stable.
“Thanks to her owner Mr Yong for his continued support. We love watching these silks win races and we think there’s a few more in store for her now she’s ticked off her maiden win.”
With her maiden now behind her, Tesoro Mio looks poised to take confidence from the run and continue her progression through the grades this preparation.
Ridden confidently by Liam Riordan, the three-year-old daughter of Bivouac used her early speed to push forward and be positive. Despite the field rolling along at a genuine tempo, she found plenty in the straight to hold off the fast-finishing Oliveanotherday, who had impressed in recent trials.
Trainer Tim Fitzsimmons was delighted with both the ride and the filly’s effort: “I thought she ran really well. She’ll continue to improve as she wasn’t fully wound up today. Great ride from Liam (Riordan) to hold on. He used her early speed, so they raced along at a good rate and held off the fast finishing Oliveanotherday, which looks a nice type from his recent trials.”
It was only her fourth career start, and Tim believes there’s more to come as she builds fitness and experience.
“She’s still learning what it’s all about. We’ll look for another 1000m race for her over the coming weeks.”
It always great to get another victory for owner Mr Yong which has been a loyal supporter of the stable.
“Thanks to her owner Mr Yong for his continued support. We love watching these silks win races and we think there’s a few more in store for her now she’s ticked off her maiden win.”
With her maiden now behind her, Tesoro Mio looks poised to take confidence from the run and continue her progression through the grades this preparation.
Fitzsimmons Racing kicked off the 2025/26 season in style today, with newly acquired galloper Olatunde scoring a dominant maiden win at Ballarat on the synthetic.
Having his first start for the stable since being purchased by Josh McLoughlan from Jig Racing, the son of Farnan was cool, calm and professional under leading jockey Damian Lane, taking out the Porter Plant 3YO Maiden Plate (1100m) with a strong finish.
Trainer Tim Fitzsimmons was pleased with the result and even more encouraged by what it means for the road ahead.
“In hindsight, I’m happy he got back into the ruck. He did everything professionally and switched off, and from that I think he’ll get 1400m and maybe a mile,” Tim said. “It can be hard to gauge those jump outs sometimes where they just do it so easy, but I thought he was really professional today.”
Olatunde midfield but travelled sweetly for Lane before producing a sharp turn of foot late, powering to the line to score by almost four lengths.
“I think he’s a horse that will progress through the grades and continue to improve. He could really be a banner horse for us,” Tim added. “Thanks to Josh and all the owners who bought into this horse and hopefully we can repay their faith with some nice wins in the future.”
Jockey Damian Lane echoed the sentiment after guiding Olatunde home.
“ He was beaten for a little bit of speed early and was a little bit busy, but once he found his feet, he hit the line well,” Lane said. “It suggests that 1200m will be ideal next start and it gives Tim some nice options going forward.”
A professional first-up performance and a promising sign of things to come - Olatunde looks to have a bright campaign ahead, and the Fitzsimmons Racing team couldn’t be happier with his start.
Fitzsimmons Racing kicked off the 2025/26 season in style today, with newly acquired galloper Olatunde scoring a dominant maiden win at Ballarat on the synthetic.
Having his first start for the stable since being purchased by Josh McLoughlan from Jig Racing, the son of Farnan was cool, calm and professional under leading jockey Damian Lane, taking out the Porter Plant 3YO Maiden Plate (1100m) with a strong finish.
Trainer Tim Fitzsimmons was pleased with the result and even more encouraged by what it means for the road ahead.
“In hindsight, I’m happy he got back into the ruck. He did everything professionally and switched off, and from that I think he’ll get 1400m and maybe a mile,” Tim said. “It can be hard to gauge those jump outs sometimes where they just do it so easy, but I thought he was really professional today.”
Olatunde midfield but travelled sweetly for Lane before producing a sharp turn of foot late, powering to the line to score by almost four lengths.
“I think he’s a horse that will progress through the grades and continue to improve. He could really be a banner horse for us,” Tim added. “Thanks to Josh and all the owners who bought into this horse and hopefully we can repay their faith with some nice wins in the future.”
Jockey Damian Lane echoed the sentiment after guiding Olatunde home.
“ He was beaten for a little bit of speed early and was a little bit busy, but once he found his feet, he hit the line well,” Lane said. “It suggests that 1200m will be ideal next start and it gives Tim some nice options going forward.”
A professional first-up performance and a promising sign of things to come - Olatunde looks to have a bright campaign ahead, and the Fitzsimmons Racing team couldn’t be happier with his start.
And what a return it’s been!
Since saddling up his first runners out of his Bendigo base, Tim has produced 11 winners and 50% placegetters from just 53 starts, striking at a remarkable 20% win rate — a standout effort for any stable, let alone one in its foundation year.
From ticking off his first winner early in the campaign, to claiming his first double, and then celebrating a first metropolitan victory, it’s been a year packed with milestones.
“It’s been a ripper of a start,” Tim said. “We hit the ground running and have been able to build some great momentum. I’m incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received.”
The journey back to Australian racing wasn’t without its challenges, but Tim credits the people around him for helping make it all possible.
“The Bendigo Jockey Club have been awesome. They welcomed us in from day one and made it feel like home,” he said. “I also can’t thank our owners enough, both the familiar faces who backed me from Singapore, and the new ones who’ve jumped on board. I’ve been lucky to have such a loyal, passionate crew behind me.”
Of course, no stable runs without a strong team behind the scenes.
“I’ve got a small but seriously committed crew working with me and they’ve been top notch. Horses don’t improve unless the people around them are switched on and I reckon we’ve got that in spades.”
“We’ve managed to forge some great relationships with jockeys and track riders already, which has been a great foundation for getting the best out of our horses. Having riders who understand the horses and our system has made a real difference early on.”
With a sharp win percentage and several promising young horses coming through the system, Fitzsimmons Racing is now looking to build on its early success heading into the 2025/26 season.
“We’ve laid the foundations. The goal now is to keep going, aim for better races, continue to grow the team, and just keep doing what we love: training winners.”
Here’s to a promising start, and an exciting first full season in Australia for Fitzsimmons Racing to come.
And what a return it’s been!
Since saddling up his first runners out of his Bendigo base, Tim has produced 11 winners and 50% placegetters from just 53 starts, striking at a remarkable 20% win rate — a standout effort for any stable, let alone one in its foundation year.
From ticking off his first winner early in the campaign, to claiming his first double, and then celebrating a first metropolitan victory, it’s been a year packed with milestones.
“It’s been a ripper of a start,” Tim said. “We hit the ground running and have been able to build some great momentum. I’m incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received.”
The journey back to Australian racing wasn’t without its challenges, but Tim credits the people around him for helping make it all possible.
“The Bendigo Jockey Club have been awesome. They welcomed us in from day one and made it feel like home,” he said. “I also can’t thank our owners enough, both the familiar faces who backed me from Singapore, and the new ones who’ve jumped on board. I’ve been lucky to have such a loyal, passionate crew behind me.”
Of course, no stable runs without a strong team behind the scenes.
“I’ve got a small but seriously committed crew working with me and they’ve been top notch. Horses don’t improve unless the people around them are switched on and I reckon we’ve got that in spades.”
“We’ve managed to forge some great relationships with jockeys and track riders already, which has been a great foundation for getting the best out of our horses. Having riders who understand the horses and our system has made a real difference early on.”
With a sharp win percentage and several promising young horses coming through the system, Fitzsimmons Racing is now looking to build on its early success heading into the 2025/26 season.
“We’ve laid the foundations. The goal now is to keep going, aim for better races, continue to grow the team, and just keep doing what we love: training winners.”
Here’s to a promising start, and an exciting first full season in Australia for Fitzsimmons Racing to come.