Quello Dorato, a half-brother to star mare Bella Nipotina, delivered a timely boost for trainer Danny O’Brien ahead of a massive weekend of racing in Queensland, scoring impressively in wet conditions at Sale on Wednesday.
The lightly raced son of Trapeze Artist, stepping out for just his third career start and second run this prep, handled the Heavy track with ease over 1429m, making the most of a perfect run in transit to claim a convincing win.
Quello Dorato, half-brother to Bella Nipotina, delivers a well-earned maiden win in tricky conditions at Sale đź’Ş@DOBrienRacing @lil_spaino96 pic.twitter.com/DhUvbgJhpl
— Racing.com (@Racing) June 25, 2025
Jockey Zac Spain positioned the four-year-old gelding beautifully in the one-out, one-back position and made his move at the right time, guiding him through the deteriorating weather to a strong finish.
Quello Dorato carries the same silks as his illustrious older sibling Bella Nipotina, who earned more than $18 million during an incredible 57-start career, largely under the care of Ciaron Maher.
Spain, who has partnered Quello Dorato in his jumpouts and again this preparation, was full of praise for the gelding’s adaptability and determination in the challenging conditions.
“I was lucky I was sitting in the one-one, he travelled good,” he said.
“The wind really picked up, the rain’s picked up and even though I sat fourth, the visibility wasn’t too good.
“(But) he got through the Heavy no worries. He sort of came off the bridle when they really sort of quickened up at the 600m … knowing my bloke, I know he just likes to build through his gears.
“Once we balanced up, he was really good through the line. He was pricking the ears up and getting blown around, so he did a great job.”
Stablemate Wollemia Angel ($8.50) also ran with credit, grinding into third and helping O’Brien land two placings in the race—an ideal confidence booster before a high-stakes Saturday at Eagle Farm.
There, Grinzinger Belle will tackle the Group 1 Tattersall’s Tiara, while Brave Design lines up in the Listed Tattersall’s Stakes.
If you’re planning to bet on the Tattersall’s Tiara or other major races this weekend, make sure to explore the best Australian betting sites for the latest odds, offers, and secure platforms. All tips and selections should be used for entertainment purposes only—gamble responsibly.
