Elle
Nov 28th 2024
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Porta Fortuna Medallion Racing, a division of Taylor Made, has redefined the racing partnership model by consistently delivering high-level racing experiences to its partners. Despite notable achievements in its early years, Medallion lacked a marquee horse capable of dominating the international scene. That changed with the acquisition of Porta Fortuna (Ire), a filly by Caravaggio, whose extraordinary 2024 campaign elevated the syndicate to new heights.
Founded with the aim of offering its partners access to elite global racing, Medallion Racing focuses on acquiring established talent with immediate stakes potential. Partners can join for a one-time fee of 50,000, granting them access to horses ready to compete at the graded or group stakes level within weeks of purchase.
“We wanted to create an experience that allowed people to step into racing at the highest level without the long wait of developing yearlings”, said Mark Taylor, Taylor Made President and CEO.
Medallion has enjoyed remarkable success since its inception, very proud of over 250 starts, 28 graded stakes wins, and 72 top-three finishes in graded stakes. However, its roster lacked a standout superstar until Porta Fortuna.
Porta Fortuna caught the attention of Medallion’s team after breaking her maiden at the Curragh in 2023. Despite initial concerns over her limited experience, her potential was undeniable. Mark McStay introduced the filly to Medallion, and after some deliberation, she was brought into the fold.
“She was one of the riskier purchases, but the team saw her massive upside”, Taylor explained.
Trained by Donnacha O’Brien, Porta Fortuna validated that belief with a stellar 2024 season. Her triumphs included four Group I victories, highlighted by wins in the G1 Coronation Stakes and the G3 Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot. Though she finished eighth in the GI Breeders’ Cup Mile, her awards earned her the title of Cartier Champion 3-Year-Old Filly of 2024.
With a well-earned winter break underway, plans for Porta Fortuna’s 4-year-old campaign are taking shape. A return to Royal Ascot is a primary goal, with additional opportunities, including a possible U.S. prep race ahead of the 2025 Breeders’ Cup.
“Donnacha is a remarkable talent, and having Porta Fortuna as one of his early stars is a legacy in the making”, said Taylor. “We’ll let the horse guide us, but her story is far from finished.”
Unlike traditional partnerships that invest in yearlings or unraced juveniles, Medallion focuses on acquiring race-ready horses with immediate stakes potential. This approach eliminates the uncertainty and waiting period often associated with racehorse ownership.
“You know you’re getting to experience racing at the highest level,” Taylor noted. “It’s not about buying a handful of prospects and hoping for the best. We aim to deliver instant action and top-level competition.”
Medallion typically acquires about 12 horses annually, with earnings reinvested into new acquisitions. This model ensures a dynamic and continually evolving stable that keeps partners engaged.
Porta Fortuna’s achievements represent the culmination of Medallion’s vision and dedication. While a victory in the 2025 Breeders’ Cup Mile would be the ultimate prize, her continued success in Europe could further solidify her place as Medallion Racing’s greatest acquisition.
“She’s only raced twelve times, and she’s already accomplished so much,” Taylor said. “We believe the best is yet to come.”
Medallion Racing’s dedication to exceptional experiences has impressed its partners, making it a standout in the competitive world of racing partnerships. With Porta Fortuna leading the charge, the syndicate’s future appears brighter than ever.