Amo Racing retains stake in Wootton Bassett colt moving to hurdling
Kia Joorabchian’s Amo Racing, known for its high-profile presence on the flat, will for the first time be represented over jumps after retaining a 50 per cent share in Diligo, a three-year-old colt trained by Max Comley.
From the sales ring to a new career
Diligo, a son of Wootton Bassett, originally changed hands as a yearling for 200,000 guineas on behalf of Amo Racing and Al Shaqab Racing. He subsequently made two flat starts in Ireland for Joseph O’Brien, finishing fourth and third, before returning to Tattersalls where Comley secured him for 42,000 guineas.
Following the purchase, Amo Racing moved to retain a half-share in the colt. The remaining ownership is held by parties associated with Richard Sheppard and S W Racing, who retain a 50 per cent interest.
Plans point to juvenile hurdling campaign
Comley has indicated that Diligo will be prepared for a hurdling career over the winter months. Having been with Comley’s yard for around a month, the horse has undergone initial schooling and has schooled over barrels, with his behaviour and attitude described as encouraging for a juvenile hurdling prospect.
The decision marks a departure for Amo Racing, which has built its reputation primarily on flat racing. The retained share means Diligo is set to become the first horse to carry Amo’s colours in National Hunt competition should he go on to race over hurdles.
Significance for a rising yard
Comley, who was granted a full training licence less than two years ago and currently operates a relatively small yard, regards the connection as an important development. The involvement of a major flat ownership operation represents a notable endorsement for a young trainer progressing from point-to-point preparation into the licensed training ranks.
While Diligo’s flat form was modest in a pair of juvenile outings in Ireland, his sale to Comley and subsequent re-purchase by Amo Racing suggest the colt’s conformation and schooling have persuaded connections that he may be better suited to a jumping career.
What it means for festival prospects
Although Diligo is early in his National Hunt education, the move underlines how owners active on the flat can identify and back potential juvenile hurdlers. Should he progress as expected, he could be aimed at juvenile hurdle contests at prominent UK and Irish fixtures next season, putting Amo Racing’s colours on courses traditionally associated with festival racing.
Outlook
The coming weeks will see Diligo continue his schooling and preparation for an intended transition to hurdles. For Amo Racing, the investment represents both a diversification of interests and a first step into National Hunt ownership, while for Comley it provides a high-profile addition to his relatively small but developing string.
