Champion Thoroughbreds | Champion Thoroughbreds News 61331 Castelvecchios Star Continues To Rise

Pictured: Verona Rose noses out her rivals to win the Listed Kembla Grange Classic

Verona Rose kept her unbeaten record intact when stepping up to Listed grade in the Kembla Grange Classic on Friday, delivering a fourth stakes winner for her sire Castelvecchio from his first crop of runners.

A modest $40,000 purchase from Arrowfield Stud at the Inglis Classic Sale for trainer Gary Portelli, Verona Rose was selected with the Oaks in mind — and that’s exactly where Portelli is now headed with the talented filly, who has already banked $195,200 for her ownership group.

Despite having comparatively low numbers among his peers, Castelvecchio sits firmly in third position on the second-season sires’ table. Perhaps even more impressively, he holds fifth position on the three-year-old sires list, trailing only elite stallions Written Tycoon, Snitzel, Too Darn Hot, and Zoustar.

It’s shaping up to be a promising Autumn for Castelvecchio, with his talented Group 1 placed daughter Aeliana currently rated second favourite for next month’s Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes. Aeliana could provide another significant milestone for her young sire, who continues to build momentum from his first crop of runners.

With growing confidence in Castelvecchio’s future, we invested decisively at this year’s yearling sales — securing two quality fillies by the Group 1-winning son of Dundeel.

Our Castelvecchio x Iskander filly, who will be trained by Chris Waller, has been fully subscribed, reflecting the strong demand for progeny by this up-and-coming sire.

However, there is still an opportunity to get involved. We have limited shares available in our second Castelvecchio purchase — a filly from the Magic Millions Gold Coast Sale, out of Redoute’s Choice mare Charm School.

Charm School was a $480,000 yearling herself, and showed ability early, winning on debut as a 2YO over 1000m at Sandown from just four career starts. Importantly, she hails from a family rich in speed and precocity — one that includes Group 1 Golden Slipper winner Farnan.

With Castelvecchio’s profile continuing to rise and a strong pedigree behind this filly, she presents an exciting prospect for those looking to race a well-bred, athletic type with genuine upside. And better yet, she was purchased for just $80,000 and represents excellent value. 

For more information, please email racing@championthoroughbreds.com.au or CLICK HERE to learn more about this filly. 


Castelvecchio x Charm School filly