Golden Slipper winner and rising sire Farnan has picked up right where he left off, siring a double with his first two runners of the new racing season at Kembla on Friday. After leading all first-season sires by winners last year with 14 individual victors, Farnan wasted no time getting on the board in 2025/26.
The first of the pair to strike was our highlighted ‘One to Watch’, Ninja, who absolutely bolted in by 11 lengths in the MyRacehorse colours. Later in the day, the Peter Snowden-trained gelding Johnny made an impressive winning debut, charging home along the inside under jockey Andrew Adkins to claim the 1000m maiden by a length and a half.
Johnny, a well-prepared youngster with six trials under his belt, showed the benefit of his education as he justified strong market support. A $150,000 Magic Millions purchase from Kia Ora Stud by Snowden Racing, Johnny races for an all-women ownership group who look set to enjoy the rewards of their patience.
Bred by Kia Ora and TFI, Johnny is the first foal of Amuri, a metropolitan-winning half-sister by Zoustar to Group 3 winner Thurlow and stakes-winner Three Kings. His dam is out of stakes-winner Princess Emmy, adding further depth to his pedigree. Amuri was sold via Inglis Digital in 2024 while in foal to Farnan once again, producing a full sister to Johnny last spring.
Following a stellar debut season at stud, Farnan has received a well-deserved fee increase and now stands at Kia Ora Stud for $77,000.