Ben Hayes believes he has unearthed a genuine Victory Derby contender in the Tosen Stardom (JPN) gelding Mickio.
Making his second start following a fast-finishing third at Donald on August 29, Mickio carried the support of the Lindsay Park Stable in the DMB Contracting Maiden Plate (1726m).
Given a peach by Declan Bates, Mickio was strong to the line in defeating Highly Likely (Impending) by one and three-quarter lengths, with Lodbrok (Australia) the same distance back in third.
A homebred for Tony Ottobre’s Cape Schanck Stud, Mickio is the third foal and first to race for the reliant O’Reilly mare Jennio.
The winner of four and placed in ten of her 33 starts, Jennio is a half-sister to Tony Ottobre’s very smart High Chaparral filly Jennifer Lynn whose four wins were highlighted by the Listed VRC Lexus Hybrid Plate.
Jennio foaled a Cool Aza Beel (NZ) filly last spring before visiting Admire Mars (JPN).
Tosen Stardom (JPN) won seven races highlighted by the Group 1 Toorak Handicap and Group 1 MacKinnon Stakes when trained by carrying the colours of Australian Bloodstock.
The son of Deep Impact was a dual Grade III winner in Japan and finished runner-up in the Group 1 Ranvet Stakes at Rosehill when trained by Yasutoshi Ikee.
After beginning his career at Woodside Park Stud, Tosen Stardom (JPN) headed to Ireland late last year to become the foundation stallion at Zenith Stallion Station, where he stands at €7,000.
