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| Staff Writer |
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Winx, the extraordinary champion who dominated Australian racing, has delivered a strapping colt by leading sire Snitzel at Coolmore Stud in the early hours of Monday morning, bringing fresh delight to her connections.
The delivery, occurring just after midnight, proceeded without complications despite being a fortnight overdue. Co-owner Peter Tighe reported the newcomer as being particularly long-legged, marking a positive start for both dam and offspring.
The colt represents premier breeding lines, with his sire Snitzel having amassed progeny earnings exceeding US$240 million during his decorated stud career. He follows Winx's second foal, a Pierro filly who commanded US$10 million at this year's Inglis Easter Sale, secured by co-owner Debbie Kepitis.
The mare's remarkable racing career saw her clinch 25 victories at Group One level from 37 starts, including four consecutive Gr.1 Cox Plates, establishing herself among the sport's immortals. Previous Cox Plate heroines who achieved breeding success include Sunline, whose progeny included Group Two winner Sun Ruler.
"We're happy to have a colt especially by Snitzel because it is a super line of breeding, and Winx deserves every bloody thing she gets," Tighe remarked. "Having a beautiful young boy is exactly what she needed."
The birth holds particular significance following the tragic loss of Winx's first foal in 2020, when the mare herself faced a life-threatening situation. "She looked a million bucks beforehand yesterday and her coat was gleaming," Tighe added. "The team at Coolmore and the vets in Scone are second-to-none. They look after her like one of their own family."
Early veterinary examinations are proceeding as routine for the youngster, marking another chapter in the continuing legacy of this remarkable mare.