SLIPPER STAR TO STICK WITH NEW COAST OPERATION:

Breeding operation Telemon starts with a star

GOLDEN Slipper runner-up Sidestep will stand with new breeding operation Telemon Thoroughbreds on its property just north of the Gold Coast.

Telemon owner Dan Fletcher purchased the 97ha property, located on the Logan River, 18 months ago and will begin work in June when current occupant Sun Stud moves on.

The property has been one of the most prominent breeding farms in Queensland in recent years, with the likes of stallions Success Express, Mossman, Written Tycoon and Bel Espirit all calling it home.

The boutique farm has produced filly Gold Edition, Queensland racing immortal Buffering and, more recently, emerging sire Zoustar.

Telemon Thoroughbreds has partnered with Racing giant Godolphin, which owns Sidestep, to sign off on a deal to have the multiple Group 2winning sprinter stand on the property.

“It’s our privilege to offer a horse the calibre of Sidestep,” Fletcher said.

“He’d be one of the best two-year-olds to stand up here in my time.”

The breeding company has committed to making Sidestep available to Queensland breeders for a minimum of two seasons.

Sidestep will return from his European shuttle duties in mid-August.

Godolphin’s Australian managing director, Vin Cox, knows the history of the farm from his time as Magic Millions boss and predicted success for Sidestep.

“It’s a really exciting opportunity for all breeders in Queensland,” Cox said.

“I know the quality of the farm where he’ll be standing from my time in Queensland so that was a huge attraction.

“There’s absolutely no doubt Sidestep is a terrific chance to make it and with his first yearlings currently entering the racing systems we thought it made sense to position him in a market where we know he will be embraced.”

Joe Heather operated the Sun Stud and will stay on at the property as general manager for Telemon.

Meanwhile, emerging sprinter Care To Think did not have his planned barrier trial at Murwillumbah yesterday.

Trainer Matt Dunn had pencilled in a run on the course proper ahead of Saturday’s Group 1 Doomben 10,000.

Care To Think hasn’t run since March 3.