The long-standing connection between trainer Ron Quinton and the Tait and Nivison families will be on show again this weekend when Signor Tortoni takes his place at Randwick.
Owned by siblings Sandy Tait and Jill Nivison, whose families have enjoyed immense success in Australian racing for decades, Signor Tortoni carries the famous red and white colours made famous by Tie The Knot and Spinning Hill.
Quinton has been part of the families’ racing story since his riding days and continues that link in his current role as a trainer.
“I rode for Sandy and Kathy Tait, and for Sandy’s parents Griff and Daisy as well,” Quinton said. “Since I began training, they’ve nearly always had a horse with me.”
“We’ve had a few handy horses together, including Smart As Smart, but nothing at the very top level.”
Signor Tortoni is from a family with deep sentimental value to his owners. His dam Tortoni is the producer of Group 1 performer Cherry Tortoni and stakes winner Wings Of Song, while being the final foal of the famed broodmare Whisked, the half-sister of Tie The Knot.
“He’s beautifully bred and I’ll also be training a half-sister to him by St Mark’s Basilica,” Quinton added.
By Too Darn Hot, Signor Tortoni has made an encouraging start to his career, recording two wins, three seconds and a fourth from six appearances, including back-to-back victories.
Saturday will mark his first attempt at Saturday metro class when he contests The Agency Real Estate Handicap (1300m). Quinton is optimistic but realistic about the challenge.
“He’s a consistent horse who has always shown nice ability. Now it’s about stepping up and proving himself at this level,” he said.
Quinton will also run Rantan later on the program. The filly has had little luck this preparation but is capable of a big run if things fall her way.
“She had a lot of talent early, but a few setbacks have stopped her showing her best,” Quinton said. “With a bit of luck from barrier 13, she can definitely be in the finish.”
Rantan has already been well supported, firming from $26 to $9.50, while Signor Tortoni is currently rated a $5.50 chance.
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