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.