After enjoying a successful day at Te Aroha on Saturday with Group One winner Nicoletta and promising three-year-old Santa Catarina, owner Lib Petagna and his familiar lime, blue and gold colours were to the fore again on Sunday when speedy two-year-old Ramazzotti scored over 800m on debut at Pukekohe.

The Murray Baker and Andrew Forsman-trained Per Incanto filly showed speed from a mid-field barrier to take control of the race and never gave her rivals a look in as she cruised home to score by a length and a half in the hands of rider Matt Cameron.

In a race dominated by the debutants, local runner Super Pursuit made up good ground late after missing the jump to finish second with race favourite Blitzabeel also closing nicely for third.

“Gate speed and professionalism, that was the key,” Forsman said.

“She had a bit of trial experience before Christmas, had a break and then trialled up really well leading into this.

“We thought she could do that today. She has plenty of speed and the way she does things so professionally, I’m sure she will have a few wins yet.

“We will have to have a look at some black-type and I think she will get through tracks a bit slower than this which will be a big assist over the next couple of months.”

Prominent owner Lib Petagna (right) with his racing manager Bruce Perry (left)

Tara Hughes

Bred and owned by Lib Petagna, Ramazzotti is the first foal of O’Reilly mare, Suzie The Cat who is a daughter of American mare Nursey Rhyme, the half-sister to multiple stakes winner Mud Route and from the family of the Gr.1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner and successful stallion, Success Express.