The Bishan Stud Farm in India soared to prominence thanks to their remarkable stallion, Gusto, whose limited crop produced an impressive array of winners. Despite being given a modest book of mares, Gusto`s progeny, largely entrusted to the adept hands of trainer Prasanna Kumar, achieved outstanding success. Known for their blistering speed, these versatile horses surprised many by also excelling over longer distances. Standout performer Evaldo clinched the South India Derby, while Santissimo`s recent Bangalore Derby victory further bolstered Gusto`s reputation.

The late Gusto, sired by Oasis Dream out of Pickle (Piccolo), and once trained by Richard Hannon, proved to be a game-changer for the fledgling Bishan Stud Farm. With only a handful of mares in his early years, Gusto`s progeny competed against some of India`s most established studs, showcasing his undeniable talent. His untimely death in 2022 from colic was a blow to the farm, which has since welcomed Royal Ascot winner Prince of Lir to continue their legacy.

During his racing career from July 2011 to May 2012, Gusto competed in the iconic light blue silks of Highclere Thoroughbred Racing`s Rock Sand Syndicate. His purchase at the Goffs Orby Sales by John Warren, then bloodstock manager to the late Queen Elizabeth II, marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey. Gusto`s limited yet striking impact on the racing world has left a lasting impression, making him a legend in his own right.

John Warren is brother-in-law to Highclere`s found Harry Herbert who remembers Gusto fondly.

“He cost £100,000. I remember his purchase well because I couldn`t believe that John still had him in the short list as he was so small. John didn`t like buying small horses but this boy really impressed him in looks, movement and that cocky air of a good horse. As you can imagine there was lots of Royal Ascot chat but he didn`t start his career until well into July at Salisbury. A good winner Haydock on his second start it was then into black type company at York for the Listed Roses Stakes.

“Gusto was a really gutsy horse who lived up to his name and gave his share owners an enormous amount of fun. Reeling off three Listed wins as a three-year-old to conclude his racing career was fabulous. It`s wonderful news that he has done so well in India. We were all very sad to hear that he had died, too soon.”

Richard Hannon Snr also remembers Gusto fondly. “He always gave his all when he went racing,” said the former champion trainer, succeeded by his son Richard Jnr. “Small? That didn`t bother him. Look at Mehmas (top sire trained by Richard Jnr) he is no bigger than Gusto. Wish I`d had a dozen like him.”

After a series of sprint victories, Gusto transitioned to a stud career in Punjab. His former owners at Highclere Thoroughbred Racing closely followed his journey as a stallion and were devastated by his premature death. Despite this loss, they now have reason to rejoice, as Gusto`s legacy continues through his son, Santissimo, who recently won the Bangalore Derby, carrying Gusto`s name to victory in India`s top-class races.

Richard Hannon Sr. claimed his fourth trainer`s title in 2013 before passing the reins to Richard Hannon Jr., who secured his first championship the following year. The Hannons have felt a strong connection to Indian racing through Gusto, a bond that persists with their colt Chindit. Recently purchased by Cyrus and Zavary Poonawalla, Chindit carries the hope of following in Gusto`s footsteps and achieving greatness.