Ravalli Returns to Winning Form
Monday, 26 May 2025
Fitzsimmons Racing’s hot run continued on Sunday with a strong performance from Ravalli, who delivered a tough and determined win in the BM64 Handicap (1200m) at Ballarat.
Having returned from a successful stint in Singapore, Ravalli was expected to make an impact back in Victoria, and he delivered in style under apprentice Ryan Houston, despite a challenging start.
“It was really good to see that horse put his best foot forward,” said trainer Tim Fitzsimmons.
“He’s one of the nicer horses I brought back from Singapore, and I was disappointed with his first run, but I put that down to the heavy track at Moonee Valley.
Today, I told Ryan, ‘as long as you’ve got him travelling on the bridle, just don’t let his head go too soon.’ He was caught wide again, but he relaxed beautifully and really let down late. I think he’s a horse that can progress through the grades.”
The win also marked an exciting milestone for Jig Racing, long-time supporters of the stable.
“I’m thrilled to get our first Australian winner for Jig Racing, led by Josh McLoughlan and his loyal group of owners,” Fitzsimmons added. “They’ve been incredible supporters of my stable for a long time, and it means a lot to get another result in their colours. Hopefully it’s the first of many more to come in Australia.”
It was Ravalli’s second Australian start and first win since relocating from Singapore, where he had built a strong resume with consistent city-class form.
For Houston, it was a win that required patience and confidence.
“I thought that was a complete disaster from the get-go,” Houston said.
“We blew the start and stuck wide, but the horse trucked up around the corner like the winner and he was tough late.
If he can win like that, surely he can win again with a bit of cover next time. I’m quite happy to be riding for this fellow at the moment — they’re ticking along really nicely for the number of starts he’s had in Australia.”
The win marked the sixth Australian winner for Fitzsimmons Racing since Tim’s return, with the stable boasting an impressive winning and top-three strike rate and strong support from both loyal and new owners.
With Ravalli now back on track and a growing team of progressive horses, Fitzsimmons Racing continues to make its mark in Victorian racing.
Photo Credit: Racing Photos
Having returned from a successful stint in Singapore, Ravalli was expected to make an impact back in Victoria, and he delivered in style under apprentice Ryan Houston, despite a challenging start.
“It was really good to see that horse put his best foot forward,” said trainer Tim Fitzsimmons.
“He’s one of the nicer horses I brought back from Singapore, and I was disappointed with his first run, but I put that down to the heavy track at Moonee Valley.
Today, I told Ryan, ‘as long as you’ve got him travelling on the bridle, just don’t let his head go too soon.’ He was caught wide again, but he relaxed beautifully and really let down late. I think he’s a horse that can progress through the grades.”
The win also marked an exciting milestone for Jig Racing, long-time supporters of the stable.
“I’m thrilled to get our first Australian winner for Jig Racing, led by Josh McLoughlan and his loyal group of owners,” Fitzsimmons added. “They’ve been incredible supporters of my stable for a long time, and it means a lot to get another result in their colours. Hopefully it’s the first of many more to come in Australia.”
It was Ravalli’s second Australian start and first win since relocating from Singapore, where he had built a strong resume with consistent city-class form.
For Houston, it was a win that required patience and confidence.
“I thought that was a complete disaster from the get-go,” Houston said.
“We blew the start and stuck wide, but the horse trucked up around the corner like the winner and he was tough late.
If he can win like that, surely he can win again with a bit of cover next time. I’m quite happy to be riding for this fellow at the moment — they’re ticking along really nicely for the number of starts he’s had in Australia.”
The win marked the sixth Australian winner for Fitzsimmons Racing since Tim’s return, with the stable boasting an impressive winning and top-three strike rate and strong support from both loyal and new owners.
With Ravalli now back on track and a growing team of progressive horses, Fitzsimmons Racing continues to make its mark in Victorian racing.
Photo Credit: Racing Photos