Ron Quinton sweet on Tortoni at Randwick races

A racing relationship stretching back decades will continue this weekend as trainer Ron Quinton prepares rising star Signor Tortoni for a Randwick assignment.

The three-year-old is raced by siblings Sandy Tait and Jill Nivison, whose families have long been influential in Australian racing and breeding. Their famous red silks with a white cap were carried by champions such as Tie The Knot and brilliant sprinter Spinning Hill.

Quinton has been part of their success story since his days in the saddle and continues that association in his training career.

“I rode for Sandy and Kathy Tait, and also for Sandy’s parents Griff and Daisy,” Quinton recalled. “Since becoming a trainer, they’ve always had a horse with me.”

“We’ve shared a few winners over the years, including Smart As Smart who ended up being sold to Queensland, but never anything at the very top level.”

Signor Tortoni comes from a family close to the owners’ hearts. His dam Tortoni is the producer of Group 1 performer Cherry Tortoni and stakes winner Wings Of Song. Tortoni herself is the final foal of champion broodmare Whisked, making her a half-sister to Tie The Knot.

“He’s exceptionally well bred, and I’ll also be training a half-sister to him by St Mark’s Basilica,” Quinton said.

By Too Darn Hot, Signor Tortoni has shown consistency early in his career, with two wins, three seconds and a fourth from six starts, including consecutive victories leading into Saturday’s race.

He will tackle Saturday metropolitan company for the first time in The Agency Real Estate Handicap (1300m). Quinton is keen to see how his progressive galloper measures up in stronger company.

“He’s always had nice ability, and now we get the chance to see if he can step up to the next level,” he said.

Quinton will also be represented by Rantan later on the card. The filly has endured a luckless preparation but is capable of featuring if things go her way from barrier 13.

“She has shown great ability but hasn’t had much go her way,” he said. “If she gets the right run, she’s good enough to be in the finish.”

Early markets have seen Rantan backed from $26 to $9.50, while Signor Tortoni is rated a $5.50 chance to make it three wins in a row. For those keen to follow the action, the best odds can be found through leading betting sites.