First G1 winner for Belardo

Haunui Farm shuttle stallion Belardo has his first Group One winner after Gold Phoenix took top-level honours when capturing the Frank E Kilroe Mile Stakes at Santa Anita on Sunday for trainer Philip D'Amato.

Bred by Mighty Universe out of the winning Mizzen Mast mare Magnifica - a full-sister to Gr.1 Stewards' Cup winner Giant Treasure and Gr.2 Raven Run Stakes victress Jibboom - the gelding went unsold at €24,000 when offered by Milltown Stud at the 2019 Goffs Sportsman's Sale. 

He made one start in Ireland in 2021, winning a maiden contest at Dundalk for Kieran Cotter before being transferred to D'Amato last May. He won two times for new connections last year as well as placing six times from nine starts overall. 

Gold Phoenix is owned by Little Red Feather Racing in partnership with Sterling Stables and Marsha Naify. 

Billy Koch, the founder of Little Red Feather Racing, told Bloodhorse: "You know, this horse - ESP. That's what we call him. He showed up today. This is a prep, but Phil and his team did an amazing job and congrats to all the partners. Winning a grade 1 is special.

"I remember this race when we ran with Singletary, and we lost. We got beat a nose by Sweet Return . And I've always wanted to win this race, for all these people. They put so much time and money and effort into the game. It's just an amazing feeling. This is why we do what we do."