Les and Carol Hudson have become renowned for being the breeders of 2013 Melbourne Cup winner Black Magic Opal. And while the Hudsons sold their kennel star to master trainer Jason Thompson around this time last year, his littermates are keeping the Hunter couple in the winners' circle.
One of those littermates is Aussie Opal who will take part in race seven, the Unibet Stakes (400m) at Richmond this afternoon.
Aussie Opal is coming into the race off a last start win at Gosford last week, and while he may not have the ability of his more famous brother, Hudson gives him a good chance today.
"He should go well. He's got box four which is a slight worry, but he is a very good beginner," he said.
"He jumps quite smartly and puts a lot in early which knocks him up over the latter stages of a race.
"That's why his limit is generally 400m, he just can't seem to handle the step up over 500m like his littermates can. But this race today should suit him nicely."
Another of Black Magic Opal's littermates is Glamorous Opal who finished third to Yo Cool Maxie at her most recent start in the Gold Collar Final over 400m at Maitland.
Hudson was overjoyed by her Glamorous Opal's run and will now aim her for the Maitland Gold Cup heats on March 20.
"She put in a terrific run in the Gold Collar. She did well and was only a length and half off Yo Cool Maxie. I was really proud of the way she went in what was a really good final," Hudson said.
"Unlike Aussie Opal she is much better suited to 500m races. If she holds together we will be setting her for the Maitland Gold Cup."
The Maitland Gold Cup may be one of the last assignments for Glamorous Opal with Hudson admitting her future more than likely will be in the breeding barn.
"She is due in September and we will have a sire ready by then and if she has a litter then that's probably going to being the end of her racing career.
"I've had a lot of interest in her and any pups she has."
Meanwhile, Hudson hopes Thompson will bring Black Magic Opal (pictured) up to the Hunter for the heats of the Maitland Cup.
"He's seven from seven at the track and I'd love to see go round up here again and defend the title," Hudson said.
"I just hope that my dogs aren't in the same heat as him!"
Hudson said he has no regrets about selling Black Magic Opal.
"I'm 73 and the chances of me getting down to all the major races in Victoria were very remote," he said.
"Jason has been able to make a name for the dog and help him find his full potential. I'm happy to just get the thrill of watching him race now."
