He might be best remembered for siring the world’s best sprinter Nature Strip, but Widden Stud’s stalwart sire Nicconi has more than that to offer and added a 30th stakes-winner to his tally at Caulfield on Saturday when Nicolini Vito won the Group III MRC Victoria Handicap (1400m).

New Zealand-bred Castelvecchio filly Aeliana secured a special place in the 164-year history of the Gr.1 Australian Derby (2400m) with a stunning five-length blitz in the A$2 million classic at Randwick on Saturday.