First winner for late world champion Roaring Lion

The second runner from the only crop left behind by four-time Gr.1 winner was a winner as Lion of War made an impressive winning debut at Leicester on Saturday.

Trained by Charlie and Mark Johnston and ridden by Qatar Racing’s retained rider Cieren Fallon, Lion of War lined up as the 7/2 second favourite for the British Stallion Studs EBF Restricted Maiden Stakes over seven furlongs and powered clear to win by two and a quarter lengths.

Lion of War has lots of physical scope and is out of a Listed-placed Montjeu mare who ran in the 2014 Oaks. He looks bound to improve, so it’s all the more impressive that he was bought for just 7,000gns by David Redvers at the Tattersalls October Book 3 Yearling Sale.

He was consigned by Hillwood Stud on behalf of breeder Andrew Whitlock Racing Ltd. Congratulations to everyone associated with him.

We all have very fond memories of Roaring Lion and were grateful to be part of his story. Here’s to many more smart winners by our old friend during the rest of the year!