Flying Ricciardo's “Baby” Scorches Away On Debut

KRISTY Sultana knew when Baby Ricciardo drew box one on debut at Richmond on Wednesday something had started to go right for the youngster.

The son of the Sultana champ Flying Ricciardo and Mark Moroney's grand producer Tick Away Fire had been “through the wars”.

“We broke him in ourselves,” said Kristy.

“He always showed he had huge ability.

“But, then he came down with a few problems like liver and kidney infections.

“Of course, we went straight to the vet and he went on treatment.”

Baby Ricciardo recovered and on Wednesday got his chance to show everyone his potential.

He certainly did that.

Starting the $1.45 favourite, he was away only moderately but pushed up along the fence quickly and was in front by the first turn in the 320m Maiden.

Then he exploded.

Baby Ricciardo sped right away to win by seven and a half lengths over Mickey Roy and Fabulous Carter.

Kristy and her dad, trainer Sam, celebrated and started to map out a future for the highly promising youngster who ran 18.34 which compares so favourably with the track record of 17.90.

“He goes into the final next week,” said Kristy.

“But the most pleasing thing about the win, apart from him being a son of Flying Ricciardo, was his final section.

“It looks as though 500 metres will be his forte.

“We've taken our time with him. He is very good.”