26 Oct 2023Almanzor mare Firriato kicked off her four-year-old season in perfect style at Rotorua in the colours of Sir Peter Vela.
The Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson-trained four-year-old had been placed on two occasions last season and a pair of trial wins this preparation had her readied for success in her return to racing.
Settled behind the leader by jockey Opie Bosson, Firriato made the most of a gap that appeared up the rail turning for home and fought doggedly to secure a maiden win.
Firriato was bred by Vela under his Pencarrow Thoroughbreds banner and is the second winner from four to race for Listed placed Darci Brahma mare Deliciano.