The Al Shaqab Racing owned colt ZESTFUL (Zelzal x Kestria) made a successful start to his racing career when taking the Prix De Jasmin (Maiden) at Lyon La Soie on Monday, December 13th.

The two-year-old colt trained by Jean-Claude Rouget was always well placed and took the 1,800m contest in style, under a clever ride from jockey Jean-Bernard Eyquem.

Despite the small field of seven runners, there was a solid pace set at the head of affairs by No Regrets (Ultra). Settling well behind the leader, Zestful traveled in third place against the rail. Leaving the back straight, both No Regrets and Ariana (New Bay) slipped a couple of lengths clear of the field and looked to have the race between them. With two lengths to find inside the final 400m, Zestful began to wear down the leading pair. With a strong run inside the final 200m, Zestful burst through a gap between No Regrets and Ariana, going on to score comfortably by just under a length from No Regrets at the line. Ariana faded inside the closing stages and finished a further length and a half back in third.

Bred by Mrs S. Boulin Redouly, Zestful is by Haras de Bouquetot stallion Zelzal (Sea The Stars). His dam Kestria (Keltos) has produced black-type performers Miss Extra (Masterstroke), winner of the Group 2 Prix de Sandringham at Chantilly, and also Lucky Team (Namid), who was placed at Listed level. Kestria is a daughter of multiple Group scorer Ziria (Danehill Dancer).

Source: Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club