Kikkulu wins first race at Newmarket, as half-brother of legendary Frankel gives rookie trainer Harry Charlton reason to dream


  • Kikkulu is half-brother of legendary Frankel and has outstanding genes
  • Three-year-old is owned by Juddmonte Farms and won first race at Newmarket 

Kikkulu possesses some of the most regal genes in racing and the promising colt has given his rookie trainer Harry Charlton reason to dream.

Named after a master horse trainer in the land of Mittani, dating back to 1350 BC, Kikkuli is a half-brother to Frankel.

Like the greatest Flat horse of the 21st Century, the three-year-old is owned by Juddmonte Farms and he won his first race at Newmarket .

Ridden by Ryan Moore, he dug deep to poke his head in front in the latter stages of the seven-furlong maiden and Charlton, who took over the licence at the historic Beckhampton Stables from his father Roger last autumn was thrilled.

While there are no immediate grand plans for Kikkuli, Charlton is hopeful that there will come a point when some of the talent of the horse’s illustrious sibling comes shining through. Moore, his jockey, is convinced there is an engine within.

Kikkulu has outstanding genes as half-brother to Frankel and is trained by Harry Charlton

Kikkulu has outstanding genes as half-brother to Frankel and is trained by Harry Charlton

Charlton admitted there is added pressure given the superb genes of the colt

Charlton admitted there is added pressure given the superb genes of the colt

‘It’s wonderful to have him,’ said Charlton. ‘It comes with a little bit of added pressure and we have tried to push that pressure away. But it means a lot to the family and it means a lot to racing, so we are delighted.

‘He came here 27kg heavier than when he went to Newmarket last year for his debut, so there was just that fear of are we fit. But, really, he has done very well. We were hopeful we would see that strength come through in the final furlong. It was nice.

‘That was him showing us he is tough. We have never asked him to show us how good he is. There is no immediate plan. Ryan said there is something in there — bide your time. I don’t have grand plans but Ryan was hopeful we will get there. We’ve got a good team.’



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