Toff to rejuvenate Kingdom

Show A Heart has revitalised the Star Kingdom dynasty and his Group 1 winning son Toorak Toff will be given the chance to rejuvenate the sireline now that his racing days are over.

Star Kingdom, who died in April 1967, was the greatest influence in Australia in the second half of the last century.  Show A Heart is a fifth generation descendant of Star Kingdom and one of the most typical of the breed, being a handsome chestnut with a blaze and three white fetlocks.

Toorak Toff has a double dose of Star Kingdom in his pedigree, being from Orong, an unraced sister by shuttler Grand Lodge to dual Listed winner Avilde.

They are out of Blixen, a Sandown Guineas winner by Mighty Avalanche, a son of the Star Kingdom sire Kaoru Star.  Blixen was bred by Jim Koureas when he stood Mighty Avalanche at Dalama Stud.

Trainer Rick Hore-Lacy retired Toorak Toff after an unplaced effort first-up in Saturday’s Red Tempo Handicap (1000m) at Flemington. “We weren’t happy with his wind but we won’t operate because he’s too valuable,” Hore-Lacy said.  “All the biggest studs are interested.  He will cross very well with Danehill and Australian studs are full of Danehill mares.”

Toorak Toff defeated Squamosa in the G1 Golden Rose in August and they were booked for a return bout in the Magic Millions 3YO Guineas on January 15.  The Gai Waterhouse-trained colt is now the $2.80 favourite for the Guineas.

“Toorak Toff is the best-looking horse I have ever thrown a saddle across, bar none,” Hore-Lacy added.  “He’s a lovely natured horse and 16.1 hands high as well as a tremendously balanced racehorse.”