Fortuna Mare, BURGUNDY BELLE, to run in the Group One Berkett Telegraph at Trentham 15th January

The five year old Fortuna syndicated mare, Burgundy Belle, has been confirmed as a definite prospective starter in the time-honoured Berkett Telegraph (Group One -1200m – $250,000) at Trentham 16th of January. Lightly raced with just 14 career starts to date, Burgundy Belle (Burgundy-Spin ‘N Grin) has been ultra consistent recording 4 wins and only finishing out of the first three, 3 times in her career. Three of her last four starts have seen her run placings in Listed (Black type) events – on two of those occasions, finishing in behind the highly talented Tavi Mac.

Trainer Jamie Richards is in no doubt that she deserves a crack at the highest level – “She is a lovely mare who has had her physical issues, but can gallop, has been ultra consistent and deserves her opportunity in this race. It won’t be easy for her as she will be tackling the best Sprinters in the country at Weight For Age off an 86 Handicap Rating, but given a nice draw and a good passage, she can certainly be competitive down the Trentham 1200m chute.”

Burgundy Belle brilliant at Hastings 31st August 2019

Fortuna Director, John Galvin, is looking forward to the challenge – “I am rapt for her ownership group comprising more than 50 individuals, several of whom are in the Melody Belle Syndicate also. “Lisa” as she is called at the stable has had some physical issues throughout her career, but has more than her fair share of ability – any softening of the track on the day will suit her and we are looking forward to seeing her compete in this historic race.”

Bred by Tom and Sue Roper, Fortuna acquired Burgundy Belle as a yearling in a private sale from Karyn Fenton-Ellis