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Bella Rossie emerged as a potential autumn horse for trainer Gary Portelli when she ran second in last Saturday's $200,000 Magic Millions Sprint on the Gold Coast.
Bella Rossie has hit the ground running for the Portelli stable, following up a maiden success with a gutsy performance in last Saturday's $200,000 Magic Millions Sprint (1000m) on the Gold Coast.
Well supported prior to the jump despite a solid class rise, Bella Rossie ran second behind the Liam Birchley-trained Shamrock Slipper.
“It was an enormous run,” Portelli said.
“It was just tragic she got stuck on the fence and that was my biggest worry going into the race.
“She hasn't got the greatest gate speed, she is a big horse. She comes out, scrambles early and loses her position.
She was always going to get back and need some luck, the Gold Coast track isn't made for her.
“Three strides into the straight my worst thoughts came true but she showed a lot of courage.”
Formerly trained by Brett Partelle, Bella Rossie's career to date has been hampered by injury.
Portelli is hopeful a full race campaign will ensue for the daughter of Testa Rossa after what has been a most encouraging start to it so far this year.
“She's gotten back this morning and she looks great,” Portelli said.
“Christian Reith is of the opinion she is an autumn filly.
“If we can get black type for her the owners would be very happy.”
It was a productive weekend for Portelli who will have his stable bolstered next season by acquisitions from last weeks Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale.
“We came away with seven yearlings,” Portelli said.
“My syndicator Elite Thoroughbreds came away with five and the Vieira's bought one while I purchased one myself by Denman.
“We've got a More Than Ready, a High Chaparral filly – the mother [Imperial Ballet] was trained by Gai Waterhouse and apparently she said it was better than Sebring but she had some issues and never made it to the track.
“We also got a Choisir colt, a Not A Single Doubt colt and a Testa Rossa colt.”
