Mapperley Stud will stand Group 1 classic winner Puccini at its Matamata nursery in 2017.

Under the guidance of Peter and Jacob McKay, Puccini triumphed in the Group 1 New Zealand Derby off Group 2 wins in the Great Northern, Waikato & Avondale Guineas.

“He was the best 3yo in New Zealand by a country mile and he trained on as a 4yo for another great season,” Mapperley Stud’s Simms Davison said.  “He’s a good-looking, correct horse with a great nature – he’s very exciting.”

He came back for Group 3 victories in the Metric Mile and Thompson Hcp before crossing the Tasman where he was Group 1 placed for trainers Darren Weir and Wayne Walters.

Puccini (Encosta de Lago – Miss Opera by Paris Opera) is a half-brother to multiple Group 1 winner Sir Slick from the family of Group winners Amarula and Little Wonder.  “The mare produces durable horses who perform at the top level,” Davison added.  “He’s got a fantastic pedigree and represents outstanding value.”

Puccini was bred by Paul & Cushla Smithies of Monovale Farm and their family will stand the stallion with Mapperley at an introductory fee of $5,000 (plus gst).  He will be based alongside top-flight performers Complacent, Contributer and He’s Remarkable.

PUCCINI