Henry Dwyer fears ground conditions may have turned against Asfoora as she prepares to bring the curtain down on her glittering career in the Coolmore City Of Troy Nunthorpe Stakes.
The Australian mare flew up the Knavesmire to secure the second of her three Group One victories on European soil 12 months ago, but rain during the week means the York turf will be riding considerably slower for the defence of her title.
She looked bound for the breeding shed after finishing down the field on her first two starts of the current campaign, but a resurgent performance when a close-up fourth at Goodwood prompted connections to delay her return flight to roll the dice one more time on Friday.
“If it was on day one I would be happy enough with a soft track, but probably not on day three when they have been racing on it,” said Dwyer. “She doesn’t mind a soft track, but it is not ideal. It is hard to know.
“She is in good nick. She worked on the July course the other morning and she worked really well. The draw looks reasonably suitable (stall three) with a few speed horses around her, so hopefully she will get a nice trail into the race and have every chance.
“She is heading to the breeding sheds and even with a spectacular win I’d say we are still on that path. She doesn’t really have the option. If she was to race again she would miss the breeding season and that is not really an option.”
The rain-softened ground must also be seen as a negative for American challenger Bacio.
Bacio winning at Royal Ascot (Mike Egerton/PA)
The three-year-old blitzed his rivals in the Palace of Holyroodhouse at Royal Ascot and now bids to provide Wesley Ward with an elusive first Nunthorpe success, having previously picked up the silver medal with both Acapulco (2015) and Lady Aurelia (2017).
Ward said: “We don’t want anyone doing any more rain dances, that’s for sure!
“We don’t run on soft turf in America so who knows, maybe he’ll like it, but it’s a question mark.
“The horse is in really good shape. He had a workout over the track with Rowan Scott riding him and everybody was very happy.
“We’re feeling good, we’re excited and it’s all over bar the shouting and the hollering now.”
French hopes are carried by Francis-Henri Graffard’s Rayevka, who was last seen finishing a head second to reopposing Mission Central – trained by Aidan O’Brien – in the King Charles III Stakes.
The ground might not be in her favour, either, as Nemone Routh, French racing manager and director for the Aga Khan Studs, said: “We felt after the run at Ascot where she went very close, her best conditions are five furlongs and good top of the ground.
“She always needs a bit of luck as she’s a hold-up filly, but when she gets the splits she’s got a great turn of foot, she’s very game and always runs her race.
“She deserves her Group One as she has run a lot at Group One level and run some great races. She pretty much did everything to win last time and then that horse came from out of the clouds to get up on the line.
“You always need a bit of luck in these sprint races and for it to fall your way, especially with her as she’s not one of these fillies that just blasts in front – she has to find cover and come from the off the pace.
“She would need a little bit of a split and be in the right group, but if it falls her way I think she’ll run a big race.”
Pershaada at Goodwood (Andrew Matthews/PA)
The home team includes Jim Goldie’s Scottish star American Affair and Richard Hannon’s Pershaada.
Richard Hannon senior won the race with a juvenile filly in Lyric Fantasy in 1992 and his son and heir is hoping to repeat the feat with a youngster who impressed when winning the Molecomb at Goodwood.
“I was extremely pleased with her in the Queen Mary (finished fourth) and she compounded that in the Molecomb, which she won very well – I thought she was probably the horse to take out of the meeting,” Hannon told Tattersalls.
“The Nunthorpe is always a hard race. You are a two-year-old taking on older horses, some of them six, seven or eight years of age. They have been racing for a long time and know what they are doing.
“But if they go very quick, she has the speed to lay up with anything. The way she won last time showed she is a very, very fast two-year-old. In my opinion, she would take some beating in any race over five furlongs and I think she will get six as well.”
By Press Association Sport Reporters
Zavateri is primed for his tilt at the City of York Stakes, according to Eve Johnson Houghton, as 18 runners remained in contention for the seven-furlong Group One highlight at York on Ebor day.
After a setback in the spring which ruled out a Guineas campaign and Royal Ascot, Johnson Houghton’s three-year-old colt is still looking for a first win this campaign.
But a comeback race full of promise when fifth behind Bow Echo in the Sussex Stakes suggested he retained all his ability and now his trainer is keen to make up for lost time, back in trip to the seven furlongs on Saturday.
“I think he was a bit ring rusty and he had a good blow at Goodwood so he probably needed it more than I thought he did,” said Johnson-Houghton. “But he has come on a bundle since and I couldn’t be happier with him.
“I can’t see why he won’t run well at York. He is very, very straightforward. So absolutely it is all systems go for the race.”
He could renew rivalry with Queen Anne winner Ten Bob Tony, a place and a length and a half a length ahead of him at Goodwood as well as Lennox Stakes winner Lake Forest, just under two lengths back in seventh, who was having his second run in two days.
Lockinge winner Notable Speech may drop in trip while Japanese raider Satono Reve could be an intriguing runner stepping up from placed efforts in top sprints like the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes and the July Cup.
Aidan O’Brien’s 1000 Guineas winner True Love spearheads a possible three-strong entry from Ballydoyle with Puerto Rico and Dorset also among the entries.
Andrew Balding’s Flora Of Bermuda, Native Warrior, a Group Three winner at Leopardstown last time out, and Chipchase winner Paborus give Wathnan Racing a potentially strong hand.
Lennox second Rogue Diplomat may get the chance to continue his upward progress at the highest level among the 18 who remain.
Damysus will aim to go two places better than on the Knavesmire last time out following his third to Item in the York Stakes if lining up for the Group Two opener, the Sky Bet Strensall Stakes.
The John and Thady Gosden-trained four-year-old will be one of the leading fancies for the nine-furlong contest which has attracted 14 entries at the five-day stage.
Boiling Point (Karl Burke), Geryon (Ger Lyons), Persica (Richard Hannon) and Archivist (Hamd Al Jehani) are other notable entries.
Burke and Wathnan Racing could also team up with the likely favourite when Wild Blossom bids to build on the promise of her Alice Keppel Stakes win at Goodwood in the Julia Graves Roses Stakes.
Molecomb Stakes runner-up Adonius looks set to provide the stiffest competition in a race that has attracted 22 entries at the five-day stage.
By Gideon Brooks, Press Association
The RM150,000 Group 1 Ipoh Ladies Gold Vase has attracted a capacity field of 15 runners at Perak Turf Club this Sunday afternoon, with the Set Weights conditions appearing to strongly favour the higher-rated contenders.
Ratings across the field range from 60 to 102, yet there is only a seven-kilogram spread in the weights. Top-rated LUCKY MAGIC carries 59kg, while the lowest-rated GRAPHJET EXPRESS gets in with 52kg.
Under normal handicap conditions, the pair would almost certainly never meet on such terms. LUCKY MAGIC is a multiple Group 1 winner, whereas GRAPHJET EXPRESS would ordinarily be competing in Class 4 company. The compressed weight scale therefore gives the proven, higher-rated horses a considerable advantage on paper.
Selangor-based pair LUCKY MAGIC and BANKER’S FIRST are among the leading contenders, with both bringing strong recent form at elite level. Despite conceding weight to most of their rivals, their class should take them a long way and they look difficult to beat if producing their best.
VINCENT’S STAR finished second to BANKER’S FIRST last time out, beaten three lengths, but there are reasons to question whether he can turn the tables. He has yet to win beyond 1250m, and the 1kg weight swing in his favour may not be enough to bridge the margin from their latest encounter.
The lightly raced BANKER’S SMILE and BANKER’S KINGDOM both make their Group 1 debuts this weekend and are among the more intriguing runners.
BANKER’S SMILE may have found the mile a touch beyond him in a 4YO feature last start, so the drop back to 1400m looks ideal. He has won three of four starts over the distance and should be much better suited under these conditions.
BANKER’S KINGDOM contested the same 4YO feature four weeks ago, where he was ridden more conservatively before finishing sixth, beaten only 1.5 lengths. He possesses tactical versatility, which could prove valuable in a large field, and he appears capable of taking the step up to Group 1 company.
HEAVENLY WARRIOR is another runner deserving respect after winning three of his past five starts. Those victories have come in much lower grades, but he has been admirably consistent and may still have further improvement to come. This represents a significant rise in class, however, and Sunday will provide a much clearer indication of where he sits against the better horses.
ERUPTION is perhaps one of the more interesting chances. After causing an upset two starts ago, the 1400m specialist showed that performance was no fluke when finishing a solid second behind ANTIPODEAN, who carries an MRA rating of 114. A repeat of that effort would put ERUPTION firmly in the Group 1 picture.
With a maximum field engaged, a genuine tempo appears likely, which could bring the horses with the strongest turn of foot into play. LUCKY MAGIC, BANKER’S FIRST and BANKER’S KINGDOM all fit that profile and should appreciate a strongly run 1400m.
That said, the Ipoh track can occasionally favour horses racing on or near the speed. The pattern of the earlier races will therefore be worth monitoring before making a final assessment, as any noticeable track bias could have a significant bearing on the outcome.
There will be two maiden races conducted at the Selangor Turf Club’s race meeting this Saturday and two local trainers will be presenting a couple of stable debutants with impressive trial form in each division.
Trainer Ooi Chin Chin will be represented by four-year-old mare GOLD MEDAL MADAM in the 1200m Open Maiden (Race 5) and is coming off two trial wins recently. Blessed with early gate speed the daughter of Farnan only started twice in Australia for one placing when finishing runner up on debut back in February. Judging on its trial form, GOLD MEDAL MADAM is one watch for its Malaysian debut. Stable mate IPOH STAR has local experience after finishing 3rd in a 1200m Special Maiden here three weeks ago. The four-year-old closed off well after receiving a slight check midrace and arguably could have finished much closer. The former New Zealander raced five times in the Shaky Isles for one minor placing and despite the outside gate, will strip much fitter from his first up performance.
Leading Selangor trainer, Simon Dunderdale will go into the 1200m Restricted Maiden (Race 6) with a couple of genuine chances including newcomer NAVARRE REGENT which is coming off an impressive trial win last month. The Super Seth three-year-old appeared very sharp at the July 21 session winning the trial by three lengths which superseded its previous trial when finishing runner up behind recent winner IMAGINATE, beaten two lengths. NAVARRE REGENT has drawn the outside gate but if he can replicate his trial form to race day, he could be hard to beat on debut. Stable mate CAPET REGENT, which actually finished three lengths behind NAVARRE REGENT in that July trial, should benefit from his first up run in the 1200m Special Maiden won by King Odds on August 2. Finishing 5th, 11.5L behind the winner, CAPET REGENT can derive plenty of benefit from that experience and inform jockey Bernardo Pinheiro will stick with the New Zealand bred gelding.
Promising five-year-old galloper ELITE PRINCE could not have been more impressive on his race track return here a fortnight ago when he dominated a 1300m Class 2 contest by leading throughout to score by 3.25L. The win may have been enhanced considering the Course E was suiting the front markers and on speed gallopers that day. However, ELITE PRINCE has already proven himself with a record of four wins from eight starts despite how the track is playing and is versatile in all forms of going as well. The gelding looks the one to beat in the 1100m Class 2 contest (Race 7) despite the distance drop and Selangor Mile winning jockey Jimmy Wong retains the mount. Five-year-old DUMA returns from a couple of unplaced efforts over the mile and is better placed back to the 1100m trip. A horse possessing a high dose of closing speed, the gelding’s best recent performance was when he finished 4th in the 1200m 4YO Sprint Championship on June 28 and with Pinheiro astride, he may provide the value.
Four-year-old galloper IMAGINATE never appeared to be in danger when breaking through in a 1200m Max Two Stakes contest on August 9 and is on track to go back-to-back in Race 9. The gelding had no luck when trapped wide on his Malaysian debut over 1150m on Track Two but quickly made amends after leading throughout over 1200m. The ‘E’ Course did suit the leaders that day but nothing could be taken away from the son of Written Tycoon which cruised to a 2.75L victory. The only query is the distance rise to 1400m for the first time but IMAGINATE should utilize his early pace and charge forward from barrier eight. BANKER’S EMPIRE was a Class 3 winner at this track and distance on July 11 and will be well served from pole position. MEROVINGIAN will appreciate the class drop also after being outclassed in the 3YO Mile Championship last start and is a two-time winner at the 1400m trip.
One of the most intriguing races of the Ebor Festival will bring together an elite miler, a proven seven-furlong specialist and one of Japan’s leading sprinters when the Group 1 City of York Stakes is staged on Saturday.
Run over 1408m and carrying £600,000 in prize money, the race has attracted 14 runners for its second edition at Group 1 level.
Five-time Group 1 winner Notable Speech heads the established European contingent, last year’s runner-up Lake Forest returns to his preferred distance, while dual Takamatsunomiya Kinen winner Satono Reve provides the international interest as he steps beyond 1200m for the first time.
They are joined by Queen Anne Stakes winner Ten Bob Tony, former National Stakes winner Zavateri and the progressive Rogue Diplomat in a field that underlines the growing importance of Britain’s only all-aged Group 1 race over seven furlongs.
Few horses in the field are better suited to the specific demands of the City of York Stakes than Lake Forest.
The William Haggas-trained five-year-old came within a narrow margin of winning the inaugural Group 1 edition last season, producing a powerful late run before being denied by Never So Brave.
That performance continued his outstanding record at York, where he had previously won the Group 2 Gimcrack Stakes as a two-year-old.
His career has since taken him well beyond Britain.
Owned by Brighton and Hove Albion chairman Tony Bloom and Ian McAleavy, Lake Forest travelled to Australia in 2024 and captured the $10 million Golden Eagle at Rosehill. His victory over 1500m confirmed his ability against a large international field and established him as more than a specialist British sprinter.
The son of No Nay Never returned to his best at Glorious Goodwood this summer when winning the Group 2 Lennox Stakes over 1400m.
A slow early tempo appeared to work against his preferred racing style, but Lake Forest still produced the acceleration required to pass most of the field and defeat the improving Rogue Diplomat.
Haggas then took the unusual step of backing him up just 24 hours later in the Group 1 Sussex Stakes over 1600m.
The experiment did not produce the desired result, with Lake Forest finishing seventh, but the circumstances make it easy to overlook that performance. He was racing for the second time in two days, stepping up to a mile and competing against some of Europe’s leading specialists at the distance.
Saturday’s assignment is far more suitable.
He returns to 1408m, races at a course where he has repeatedly excelled and arrives as a stronger, more accomplished horse than the one narrowly beaten in the corresponding event last year.
Cieren Fallon retains the ride and the pair should be suited by a field containing enough tactical speed to ensure the race develops into a genuine test.
The decision to drop Notable Speech back from 1600m introduces another fascinating element to the race.
Charlie Appleby’s son of Dubawi has already built an exceptional record at the highest level, winning five Group 1 races across Britain, France and North America.
His emergence was one of the defining stories of the 2024 season.
After beginning his career on the all-weather, Notable Speech progressed rapidly enough to win the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket on his turf debut. His acceleration allowed him to settle races within a matter of strides, and that explosive turn of foot has remained his greatest weapon.
He again demonstrated those qualities when returning to Britain for the Lockinge Stakes at Newbury in May.
Held up behind the early pace by William Buick, Notable Speech travelled strongly before quickening away to defeat More Thunder by two lengths. It was his fifth Group 1 victory and appeared to establish him as the leading older miler heading into Royal Ascot.
However, his campaign stalled in the Queen Anne Stakes.
Sent out as favourite, Notable Speech never produced his trademark acceleration and finished sixth behind the shock winner Ten Bob Tony.
He has been given more than two months to recover from that performance and will return fresh at York.
The slight reduction in distance could prove significant. While Notable Speech has produced his best performances over 1600m, his high cruising speed and sharp turn of foot suggest 1408m should be within his range.
The main question is whether the shorter distance gives Buick enough time to settle him and find clear running room in a competitive field.
Barrier one could require patience. A strongly run race would allow Notable Speech to conserve energy before attacking late, but a tactical contest could leave him needing to negotiate traffic as the field accelerates.
At his best, he possesses the highest level of proven form in the race. Saturday will determine whether his Queen Anne defeat was simply an off day or the beginning of a more difficult period.
Japan’s determination to win a major British Group 1 continues with Satono Reve, who has remained in Europe throughout the summer.
Prepared by Noriyuki Hori, the seven-year-old is already established among Japan’s leading sprinters.
He won the Group 1 Takamatsunomiya Kinen over 1200m at Chukyo in 2025 before returning this season to defend the title. Racing behind a fierce early pace, he produced an outstanding closing sectional to win by two lengths in a race-record time of 1 minute 6.3 seconds.
It was later discovered that Satono Reve had lost a hind plate during the contest, adding further merit to the performance.
His success encouraged connections to embark on an extended European campaign.
The first major target was the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot, where he came within a nose of recording a historic victory for Japan.
After travelling strongly under Joao Moreira, Satono Reve produced a sustained challenge but was narrowly denied at the finish. The performance demonstrated that his Japanese form could translate to British conditions and established him as a genuine international Group 1 contender.
He remained in Britain for the July Cup at Newmarket, where he again raced prominently before finishing third behind Comanche Brave.
Both performances confirmed his class, but Saturday presents an entirely different test.
Satono Reve has built his reputation over 1200m and will now be asked to stretch his speed to 1408m. York’s long straight provides time to build momentum, although the final 200m will examine his stamina in a way that his previous races have not.
Moreira returns to the saddle and will be central to his chances. The Brazilian enjoyed enormous success in Hong Kong and has partnered Satono Reve in several of his most important international appearances.
Neither horse nor jockey has won a Group 1 race in Britain. Saturday offers another opportunity to change that record.
The race is far from restricted to the three leading names.
Ten Bob Tony has enjoyed an exceptional season, winning the Group 3 Diomed Stakes at Epsom before producing a 50-1 upset in the Queen Anne Stakes. He subsequently finished fourth behind Bow Echo in the Sussex Stakes and returns to the shorter distance with legitimate claims.
Last season’s National Stakes winner Zavateri should improve from his fifth in the Sussex Stakes. Trainer Eve Johnson Houghton believes that Goodwood appearance was needed after more than three months away from competition.
Rogue Diplomat enters as one of the most progressive runners in the field. After winning the Royal Hunt Cup over 1600m at Ascot, he dropped back to 1400m and finished only a neck behind Lake Forest in the Lennox Stakes.
Newcastle Group 3 winner Paborus, Aidan O’Brien’s Puerto Rico and the Andrew Balding-trained pair Flora Of Bermuda and Native Warrior add further depth to a race containing several contrasting form lines.
Cowboy Country landed an old-fashioned coup last time out at Hollywoodbets Scottsville. Backed in from 16-1 to 4-1 before the off, the money arrived in spades and Jabu Jacobs made no mistake on Tony Rivalland’s charge, timing his run to perfection and kicking away to land the coup with the minimum of fuss.
Jacobs has been replaced by Serino Moodley on Sunday when Cowboy Country lines up over the same course and distance in the Middle Stakes over 1600m that heads the card. Lightly raced, he showed early that he was a horse with ability although losing his way a little after his maiden win. He is taking on stronger this time but is set to follow up.
Mike Miller has two lively runners in veteran Licence To Thrill and Infinity Edge. Licence To Thrill is something of a Scottsville specialist and is always consistent. Soho Star shoulders top weight, is seldom far back and goes very well over course and distance.
The card opener could rest between Barry’s Boy and Enjoy The Ride. Barry’s Boy has run three promising races on the poly since arriving in KZN and came from a long way back when just failing to catch Camogie last time out. The switch to turf could see him go one better. Enjoy The Ride was staying on doggedly behind Camogie and, with only a neck separating him from Barry’s Boy, it should be close again. Kiartay may be a threat while first-timer Annushka’s Pride is worth following in the betting.
Alec Laird can get off the mark with Sistership in the first leg of the PA. She is a late-starting four-year-old but has shown up well in both starts and should feature. Secret Ambition has not been far back and looks the pick of Mike Miller’s runners. New Chapter should improve for the experience, while Mad About You can improve after a fair debut.
Periwinkle will be one of the fancied runners in the opening leg of the Pick 6. She made a smart start to her career over a mile, finishing third behind Hazel Green, and should come on a length or two.
Rivalland can get off the mark with Lovecomesknocking in the fourth. Lightly raced, her best showing came over course and distance when beaten less than a length. Predator’s Crown has been close-up in all three starts and steps up to a potentially more suitable trip.
The sixth is a competitive handicap. Fire Chief looks promising despite a hefty rating, while recent maiden winner Scots Wae Hae takes on stronger. Son Of Rafeef gets first-time blinkers which could bring out the best.
Uzwano has been knocking at the door and should get the run of the race from a good draw. Beyond All Doubt is lightly raced and improving, while City Of Love steps up to a mile for the first time.
Laird can round off the afternoon with Ideal Summer, who has been improving since blinkers were fitted. Charlie Bucket has won his last two in good style, while Pressure Point could be the surprise package.
The spring campaign at Hollywoodbets Durbanville starts on Saturday. Until 1 November, all meetings in Cape Town will be held at the country course, which always brings on some big names for the summer season while allowing lesser lights an opportunity to earn some stakes.
Behave Harris has inconsistent form but the best version of him would take some beating in race 6 over 1250m. Trainer Adam Marcus has his string in sensational form, while champion jockey Craig Zackey takes the ride.
Behave Harris trotted up to win his maiden over this course and distance, showing that he might keep his best for this course. His last start was over the same course and distance, where he finished third, a length behind Lyrical Gangster, who won subsequently. He was reported to have needed the run and should step forward with the outing under the belt.
Catwalk King is clearly a three-year-old with ability. He won the Listed Somerset over 1200m and a horse does not win a feature in Cape Town without having a touch of class. His last run came in the Grade 3 Langermann over 1500m at this course. Back to this distance, he must rate as the biggest danger. Kabelo Matsunyane takes the ride.
Ireland Forever is not the easiest to trust, but when he is on song, he is very impressive and worth keeping an eye on.
African Wild Dog has filled the runner-up spot in his last three efforts and is due to win. Reverting to 1250m is key after he was outrun late over 1400m last time. He could get the day off to a good start in race 1.
Waterfront caught the eye last time and can follow up in race 2 over 1600m. He finished less than a length behind Warrior Of Destiny after finding himself in a spot of bother when seeking a clear run. Landman was also luckless last time and ought to run better.
Justin Snaith has a strong hand in race 3 over 1600m with Miami Summer, In A Timely Manner and Blind Date. Miami Summer is having his third run after a break and won his most recent start, while Soho Heartthrob also arrives off a good win.
Mordechai looks fairly promising and has found a winnable event in race 4 over 1250m. He is having his third career start and should maintain his improvement with Zackey aboard.
Race 5 over 1250m sees Sparkling Star and Black Nightshade looking like they have more to come. Sparkling Star gets the narrow verdict after winning by two lengths last time while being geared down late.
Devil A Saint keeps running second and is surely due to finish one better in race 7 over 1400m. From gate No 1, he will have every option.
Lady Veritas won with merit last time and can complete back-to-back wins in race 8 over 1600m. Craig Zackey takes the ride this time.
Two very different generations will take centre stage at Deauville on Sunday as the French summer season continues with the Group 1 Prix Morny and Group 1 Prix Jean et Louis Romanet.
The €350,000 Prix Morny will test some of Europe’s fastest two-year-olds over 1200m on the straight course, while the €400,000 Prix Jean et Louis Romanet brings the leading fillies and mares together over 2000m.
Both contests have regularly attracted strong international representation and Sunday’s races are again expected to feature leading contenders from France, Britain and Ireland.
The meeting also carries considerable importance beyond the immediate Group 1 prizes. The Prix Morny has historically provided an early indication of the following season’s Classic generation, while the Prix Jean et Louis Romanet is part of the Arc Races programme and offers its winner a wildcard into the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.
A powerful performance at Newmarket has placed Senorita Bonita among the leading contenders for the Prix Morny.
Trained by Simon and Ed Crisford, the daughter of Starspangledbanner attracted attention before making her racecourse debut when purchased for 900,000 guineas at the Tattersalls Craven Breeze-Up Sale.
She has subsequently shown that the considerable investment may have been justified.
After finishing second behind Victorious in the Queen Mary Stakes over 1000m at Royal Ascot, Senorita Bonita stepped up to 1200m for the Group 2 Duchess of Cambridge Stakes at Newmarket.
The additional distance brought out further improvement.
Ridden patiently by Oisin Murphy, she produced an impressive change of speed to defeat previously unbeaten Albany Stakes winner Libertango by half a length. The victory confirmed her ability over Sunday’s distance and established her as one of the leading juvenile fillies in Europe.
The form surrounding her has also continued to strengthen.
Victorious had defeated Senorita Bonita at Royal Ascot before encountering a setback, while Libertango entered their Newmarket meeting after beating subsequent Phoenix Stakes winner Sun Goddess in the Albany Stakes.
Those performances leave Senorita Bonita connected to several of the strongest juvenile form lines produced in Britain and Ireland this season.
The Crisford stable has already enjoyed success in the race, having prepared Vandeek to win the Prix Morny in 2023. That colt also progressed through the July Stakes before completing a Group 1 double in the Morny and Middle Park Stakes.
Connections are attempting to follow a similar path with their latest sprinting prospect.
Strong opposition is expected from the Aidan O’Brien stable, which has won the Prix Morny five times.
O’Brien’s most recent victories came through Blackbeard in 2022 and Whistlejacket in 2024, while his previous winners also include Johannesburg, Myboycharlie and The Wow Signal.
Richmond Stakes winner Man’s Best Friend and Coventry Stakes winner Great Barrier Reef have been under consideration for Sunday’s contest.
A return to France would represent another rapid rise for Man’s Best Friend, who made a significant impression at Glorious Goodwood.
After winning his maiden, the son of No Nay Never progressed immediately into Group 2 company and proved too strong for his rivals in the Richmond Stakes over 1200m.
His victory came on the same Goodwood card on which stablemate Diamond Necklace captured the Nassau Stakes, giving Ballydoyle two important wins with horses potentially heading towards Deauville.
Great Barrier Reef brings an unbeaten record and one of the strongest performances produced by a juvenile this season.
He stormed home to win the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot but was forced to miss the Phoenix Stakes after suffering from ringworm. O’Brien indicated that the colt required time to recover, leaving the stable to assess whether he or Man’s Best Friend was best suited to represent the yard in France.
Whichever option Ballydoyle selects, the stable is likely to provide the most serious challenge to Senorita Bonita.
The Prix Morny was first staged in 1865 and is the oldest Group 1 race conducted at Deauville. Run at speed down the straight course, it has been won by influential horses including Blushing Groom, Machado, Zafonic, Johannesburg, Dabirsim, No Nay Never and Lady Aurelia.
Last year’s edition went to Karl Burke’s Venetian Sun, who defeated Gstaad in a close finish before returning this season to win the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot.
That subsequent success underlined the race’s ability to identify horses capable of remaining at the top level beyond their juvenile campaigns.
The second Group 1 of the afternoon could have a major influence on the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe market as unbeaten champion Diamond Necklace returns to France.
Aidan O’Brien’s three-year-old has won each of her six appearances and arrives at Deauville after extending her Group 1 record in the Nassau Stakes at Goodwood.
The daughter of St Mark’s Basilica established herself among the leading juveniles in Europe last season before developing into the outstanding three-year-old filly of 2026.
Her Classic campaign began with victory in the Poule d’Essai des Pouliches over 1600m before she successfully stepped up to 2100m in the Prix de Diane at Chantilly.
That victory required determination as well as class. After racing from the widest barrier, Diamond Necklace was forced to work for the lead but continued to find under pressure and maintained her unbeaten record.
She then faced older opposition for the first time in the Nassau Stakes at Goodwood.
Once again, the result was emphatic.
Diamond Necklace defeated Friendly Soul by almost three lengths to claim her fourth Group 1 victory and confirm that she could carry her dominance beyond her own generation.
Sunday’s return to 2000m provides O’Brien with another opportunity to determine the direction of her autumn campaign.
A strong performance could strengthen the case for testing her over 2400m in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. She is already prominent in the betting for Longchamp, although her stamina beyond 2100m remains untested.
The alternative would be to remain around 2000m, where she has already demonstrated the tactical speed and acceleration required to compete with Europe’s best.
Despite his remarkable record in Europe’s leading races, the Prix Jean Romanet is one Group 1 contest that has so far eluded O’Brien which is an amazing stat.
The trainer has won the Prix de Diane, Prix de l’Opéra and Prix Vermeille, but has yet to add Deauville’s principal middle-distance race for fillies and mares to his record.
Diamond Necklace appears to provide him with an outstanding opportunity to correct that omission.
Stablemate Precise has also been discussed as a potential candidate for the race after two defeats behind Blue Bolt over 1600m during the French summer.
The four-time Group 1 winner has maintained a high level throughout the season and connections have suggested that she may benefit from stepping up in distance.
Whether O’Brien relies solely on Diamond Necklace or strengthens his representation will add another layer of interest to the final declarations.
First staged in 2004, the race was originally created to strengthen the European programme for older fillies and mares.
It began at Group 2 level before being promoted to Group 1 status in 2009. The qualification conditions have since been expanded to include three-year-old fillies, allowing the leading members of the Classic generation to compete against older mares.
The race has also received a new name in 2026.
Previously known as the Prix Jean Romanet, it is now officially titled the Prix Jean et Louis Romanet, recognising two generations of one of the most influential families in international racing administration.
Jean Romanet served as director-general of the Société d’Encouragement, while his son Louis later held the same position and became chairman of the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities.
The increased €400,000 prize fund and inclusion in the Arc Races programme have further strengthened the race’s position within the European season.
Recent winners include Quisisana, who produced an upset victory in 2025, and outstanding French mare Mqse De Sevigne, who completed consecutive victories in 2023 and 2024.
Few horses have left a mark on Australian racing quite like Winx.
The champion mare transformed race days into sporting events, drawing enormous crowds wherever she appeared and building a winning sequence that seemed almost impossible with every passing start.
Trained by Chris Waller and partnered throughout most of her career by Hugh Bowman, Winx retired in 2019 with 37 victories from 43 starts, more than $26 million in prize money and an extraordinary 33-race winning streak.
That sequence included a world-record 25 Group 1 victories and an unprecedented four consecutive Cox Plates. She was crowned Australian Horse of the Year four times and became one of the rare racehorses whose reputation stretched well beyond the boundaries of the sport.
Her dominance was not confined to one distance or one racecourse. Winx won from 1100m through to 2200m, capturing major races in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane while repeatedly producing the acceleration that became her trademark.
Her final appearance came before a packed Royal Randwick in the 2019 Queen Elizabeth Stakes, where she completed her career with yet another Group 1 victory.
The former Warwick Stakes was renamed in her honour in 2018, providing a fitting tribute to a mare who had won the race in each of the previous two seasons. Winx then returned to win the inaugural running under its new name, extending her sequence to 26 consecutive victories and completing a hat-trick in the race.
The Group 1 contest has since become the traditional opening highlight of the Australian racing season, but few editions have carried the anticipation surrounding Saturday’s $1 million feature at Royal Randwick.
Two of the country’s most exciting racehorses are set to meet for the first time as Autumn Glow and Sheza Alibi begin their spring campaigns over 1400m.
It is a showdown worthy of the champion whose name the race carries.
For much of her career, defeat appeared to be something that simply did not apply to Autumn Glow.
The Chris Waller-trained mare won her first 11 starts, progressing from restricted company into the elite level while maintaining the same effortless racing style.
Her unbeaten sequence finally came to an end when she stepped beyond 1600m for the first time in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes over 2000m. Despite tasting defeat, her record remains an imposing 11 victories from 12 appearances.
Saturday brings her back to 1400m, a distance much closer to the conditions under which she established herself as one of Australia’s brightest stars.
She has drawn barrier three and will again be partnered by James McDonald, whose ability to settle her before producing her powerful acceleration has been a central part of their success.
There are some similarities between Autumn Glow and the mare after whom Saturday’s race is named. Both were prepared by Waller, both developed an aura through extended winning sequences and both possessed the ability to relax before unleashing a devastating turn of foot.
Comparisons with Winx remain an enormous burden for any horse, but Autumn Glow has done enough to create genuine excitement about what the next stage of her career could deliver.
The Winx Stakes represents the beginning of that next chapter.
If Autumn Glow arrives with the established reputation, Sheza Alibi brings a rise every bit as compelling.
Purchased for just $10,000 as a weanling, the daughter of Saxon Warrior began her career in regional Queensland before joining the powerful Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman stable.
Her progression since moving south has been remarkable.
Victories in The Vanity, Sandown Guineas and Angus Armanasco Stakes established her among the leading fillies of her generation, but it was in Sydney during the autumn that she elevated herself into the top echelon.
Sheza Alibi dominated the Randwick Guineas before producing an exceptional performance against older opposition in the Doncaster Mile.
After settling at the rear of the field, she swept around her rivals and powered clear to win the $4 million handicap by more than four lengths. The victory made her the first three-year-old filly since Sunline in 1999 to capture the Doncaster.
She enters the Winx Stakes with seven wins, two seconds and a third from 10 starts, having won her past six races.
However, Saturday presents a different examination.
The Doncaster allowed Sheza Alibi to take advantage of a light weight under handicap conditions. The Winx Stakes is run at weight-for-age, bringing her closer to the established stars and requiring her to prove that her autumn brilliance can translate into a genuine championship campaign.
Barrier one could also create a tactical challenge. With a large field surrounding her, jockey Jamie Melham may need to find clear running room at precisely the right moment.
Moody has been open about the size of the task, describing Autumn Glow as the deserved favourite and acknowledging that Sheza Alibi will need to improve again to defeat her.
Although the market has been dominated by the two headline mares, the Winx Stakes has assembled one of its strongest fields.
Ten Group 1 winners are among the 14 acceptors, with Waller responsible for eight runners.
Dual Group 1 winner Beiwacht could play an important tactical role at the front of the field. His ability to sustain a strong tempo over 1400m gives him the chance to turn the race into a serious weight-for-age examination from the outset.
Multiple Group 1 winners Ceolwulf and Lindermann add further depth, while Australian Derby winner Green Spaces begins a campaign likely to be built around longer spring assignments.
Aeliana returns after adding two Group 1 victories to her record, while Autumn Boy will attempt to reverse the form after finishing behind Sheza Alibi in both the Randwick Guineas and Doncaster Mile.
The presence of so many established performers means neither favourite will be afforded the luxury of a simple return to racing.
The opening Group 1 of the spring often provides clues about the months ahead. This year, it could immediately establish the horse around which the entire carnival revolves.
For Autumn Glow, the challenge is to rebound from the first defeat of her career and confirm that her brilliant record can develop into sustained weight-for-age dominance.
For Sheza Alibi, it is the opportunity to show that her Doncaster demolition was not merely the performance of a talented filly favourably placed in a handicap, but the emergence of a genuine star.
Two brilliant mares. Two contrasting journeys. One coveted Group 1 prize.
The race named in honour of one of the greatest mares Australia has ever seen may now provide the stage for the country’s next racing queen to emerge.
By Scott Bailey
Colin Keane added his name to Tom Queally’s and Ian Mongan’s on the list of jockeys to have won the Juddmonte International sporting the famous green, pink and white silks as Item wore down Almaqam at York.
Keane may have had questions to answer in some quarters heading into his first full season as retained rider for the owner/breeders, but he has silenced any doubters now.
Two Group One wins on Blue Bolt, a famous victory on Kalpana in the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes and now the richest race ever won at York on a horse who was supposed to only play a supporting role.
With Constitution River fading late after chasing his own pacemaker and Ombudsman supposedly finding the good to soft ground too soft, it was left to Almaqam and Item to fight out a thrilling finish, with Andrew Balding’s three-year-old joining Frankel and Twice Over as Juddmonte-owned winners of the race.
Item is now unbeaten in three at York, and Keane said: “He seems to really love it round here but at no point was I really confident to be honest. I was surprised Ryan (Moore) was as close as he was to the pace – his horse jumped and travelled well whereas I was never really comfortable.
“When William (Buick on Ombudsman) came to me he got in between two horses and that got him going. But he was very gutsy to get back at him (Almaqam). In the last 50 yards I thought I would get Kieran (Shoemark). The one thing he won’t do is stop.
“It is special to win in these colours and it is brilliant that they sponsor it so they get their money back.
“The rain was a negative but it was nothing like Epsom (Derby day) today, that was heavy whereas today was soft and loose and you could get through it.
“Maybe he was struggling early on through it, I was never going well enough to get out.
“When horses came either side I wasn’t quick enough to get out and then when I did get going the gap closed. Once he got out he flew.”
For Balding, just a few weeks on from Kalpana’s win, his dream summer continued, but it never ground to a halt when Item developed a foot problem earlier in the week.
“Everything bar the last 48 hours had gone to plan and when he jogged up fine this morning we were happy. It was unorthodox though as usually our runners come up the night before,” said Balding.
“He was very tough today and Colin did a beautiful job, as ever.
“I thought he was in a bit of a pocket because he’s a big horse, but very wisely Colin got him out and found him some space and he really hit overdrive.”
As for the future, the dust will now be allowed to settle and despite a huge bonus on offer for the winner of this race to follow up in the Japan Cup, Balding was unaware.
“I didn’t know there was a bonus for the Japan Cup, but that’s not my decision,” he said.
“We feel extremely lucky to be sent these horses, there’s any number of trainers that could have done well with them so I’m not saying it’s all down to us but it’s a fantastic ride.
“Juddmonte are the best team to deal with, they really offer great support and wise counsel, and it’s a pleasure to be involved.
“It’s quite something winning a Juddmonte for Juddmonte, my instruction was to keep the money in house and that’s what we’ve done!
“I’ll probably have to get two tattoos now!” he said in reference to a promise he made to his daughter if Kalpana won the King George.
By Nick Robson, Press Association
A small but competitive seven-race card faces punters on the poly at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Friday night.
Veteran trainer Ricky Maingard still has a small string based at Summerveld and could reduce his travelling costs back to Cape Town with Klein Karoo in the first leg of the Pick 6. Klein Karoo made the highly rated Coast Of The Sun work for victory last time out and his last win was over course and distance. Mike and Mathew de Kock saddle Next Of Kin, who looks the main threat. His form is holding well, he enjoys the poly and was touched off last start. Dricus appears the best of the Andre Nel pair after winning over the distance last time and receiving only a three-point raise. Cowdray Park may have needed his last sprint run and steps up to a more suitable trip.
The first is the opening leg of the Bi-Pot as well as the PA. Cuba Libre is lightly raced and makes his poly debut, while Floral Kingdom has run two smart races on the poly and gets Keagan de Melo aboard. Prince Of Rabada has improved with cheek pieces and has a handy weight. Ziphos continues to disappoint but is better than his last two on turf and should be competitive back on poly.
Maphaka won well last time out and has gone close over course and distance. Danger could come from Banff, having his first run for Frank Robinson after useful Highveld form. De Vlugge is back on her favourite surface and has excellent course-and-distance form. Future Flo is never far back but has a deep draw.
In the fourth, Shiny Bob goes well over the trip and returns to his preferred surface. Princess Palace showed signs of her best form last time and gets a 4kg claimer. Mohandas returns to poly after taking on stronger on turf and can improve, while National Dream is better than his recent turf efforts.
The fifth is an open handicap, but Sesame can deny the handicapper again after a comfortable win last time. She has received a seven-point raise but is at the top of her game. Thoonsil can improve back on poly, while veteran Queue Wing is down in class and chasing a ninth win.
Dog Soldier looks progressive and can follow up after shedding his maiden in the sixth. Sail To The Moon goes well on the poly and has been knocking on the door, while Send Me has improved in blinkers.
In the last, Arilena has useful form over course and distance, Got The Word goes well on the poly, and Cappellino gets a 4kg claimer. Mountainsofthemoon is seldom far back and must have a strong chance on her best form.
Former champion jockey Jim Crowley won the Juddmonte International at York twice, on Ulysses in 2017 and the mighty Baaeed in 2022. Here the recently-retired rider gives Press Association the lowdown on Wednesday’s highlight on the Knavesmire:
So how do you best ride York?
Because it is such a long straight horses tend to get racing a long way from home so jockeys can afford to ride a patient race and just creep into it. What I would say though is normally horses would race up the middle at York, but if they decide to stay far side it can cause traffic problems. It happened to me once when I rode Elarqam (third to Japan in 2019) and it can inconvenience some of the runners, particularly hold-up horses.
What do you remember from your two wins in the race?
Ulysses won very easily, beating a St James’s Palace winner in Barney Roy. It was an easy race to ride, as I just rode him patiently. It was like riding a piece of work, the race just unfolded in front of me. I tried to keep it all smooth and not hit the front too soon. Baaeed was different. York had made such a great effort with flags and scarves everywhere and everybody had come to watch him in his first run over a mile and a quarter. I had never really pressed the button on him, as I was always minding him and thinking of his next race, but that day (racing manager) Angus Gold said to me, ‘Let’s see what he’s got’. He was still on the bridle pulling hard a furlong out. It was like watching Sea The Stars win, but even easier. The reception he got was unbelievable and probably one of the best days of my life in the saddle.
How do you see the tactics playing out?
Ombudsman is in stall one, but I quite like Ryan Moore’s draw on Constitution River in seven and I think he could be a little bit further forward than Ombudsman throughout the race. Turning into the straight it is going to depend on where they go. If they stay on that far rail it is all going to be very tactical. William Buick will not want to get too far back with an inside draw, that’s for sure.
Did Minnie Hauk let the Prince of Wales’s Stakes form down in the King George?
You cannot crab Ombudsman’s form at all, whatever happened last time. He is the highest-rated horse in the world on turf and deserves it. I remember him beating me on a horse called Anmaat at Royal Ascot (Prince of Wales’s Stakes in 2025). Anmaat was a very good horse who had beaten Calandagan in the previous season’s Champion Stakes. He came past me that day like he had just jumped in at the furlong pole. I could not believe it. He is a very, very good horse.
Are the pacemakers in to make the pace or to get in the way?
Certainly not. I don’t think it benefits anyone to think that would happen. A little bit too much was made of the team tactics element at Ascot. Both horses want a good honest pace and that is what the pacemakers are there for. Nobody benefits from this being turned into a sprint. The faster they go the less chance there is of being boxed in. It will elongate the field. And that will suit both horses.
So is this a two-horse race?
I’ve seen a few turn-ups, especially in the Juddmonte. I saw Arabian Queen turn over Golden Horn in 2015, so it can happen. Anything is possible and the connections of Item may fancy their chances. He is rated 122 as a three-year-old getting weight from older horses. Almaqam is also rated 122, but he’s an older horse. Hawk Mountain and Pride Of Arras are useful. Zaydann has done absolutely nothing wrong and has brilliant connections. But for me it would be a turn up if any of those win. You can overlook the pacemakers, too, so yes this looks a match.
Call the race for us
I see William tucking in, but hopefully not too far back. I see Ryan and Constitution River getting first run on Ombudsman once into the straight, but I get a feeling Ombudsman will chop him down late. That is how they have ridden him in all his races. It suits his run style. I can’t get out of my head 12 months ago when it looked for all the world he might not get there and then, all of a sudden, he was going away and winning well. Constitution River is a fantastic three-year-old, but he has to step up again to beat Ombudsman.
By Gideon Brooks, Press Association
French 2000 Guineas hero Rayif bounced back to form to repel a strong raiding party in the Aga Khan Studs Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville.
Francis-Henri Graffard’s colt struck Classic gold on what was his seasonal debut in the Poule d’Essai des Poulains in early May, but his summer campaign has been interrupted, with a planned visit to Royal Ascot scuppered by a minor setback after which he ran a little below par when fifth in the Prix Jean Prat.
He had plenty on his plate stepping back up to a mile, with Aidan O’Brien’s Irish 1,000 Guineas and Coronation Stakes winner Precise the hot favourite after bumping into top-class older filly Blue Bolt on her last couple of starts.
Fozzy Stack’s Prix Jean Prat victor Thesecretadversary took the field along for much of the way, closely pursued by Karl Burke’s Zeus Olympios, who looked the likely winner after quickening to the lead inside the final furlong.
But Mickael Barzalona delivered Rayif with a withering late run and he got up to deny Zeus Olympios an elusive first Group One success, with Precise close up behind in third.
“I’m very happy, it’s a wonderful race to win, a very hard race to win,” said Graffard.
“I kept my confidence in the horse. He ran pretty well the other day with excuses and he was in top form (today). Over that course you need the perfect trip and we had the perfect trip today.
“He travelled really well and picked up really nicely, he’s very tough and game.
A big smile from winning jockey Mickael Barzalona aboard Rayif (Neil Morrice/PA)
“He won the Poule d’Essai on very soft ground so everyone was saying he’s a soft ground horse, but you need to keep trying and if these horses are to find their place at stud they need to be performing at this level.
“The Jacques le Marois is a very famous race – probably the second most famous race in France after the Arc – so it’s a wonderful race to win. It means so much.”
Rayif has a range of options for the second half of the season, including the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot on Champions Day, for which he was cut to 4-1 second-favourite from 14-1 by Coral.
Graffard added: “It depends if we decide to go for the Prix du Moulin (September 6) or give him more time and the Prix de la Foret (October 4) could be an option – I wouldn’t be afraid to drop him back in distance.
“There is the QEII at the back-end and we know he can handle soft ground.”
Zeus Olympios with Clifford Lee before the Prix Jacques le Marois (Neil Morrice/PA)
Of the gallant runner-up, Burke said: “We always thought and hoped he would produce that sort of performance in a Group One. I think physically he’s improving and he showed that today.
“He quickened twice there – first time I thought we’d got it, then he got challenged and then he quickened again and I thought we’d got it and so did Cliff (Lee, jockey).
“The winner, fair play to him, has come and cut us down. Francis can do no wrong, can he?
“We’ll get him home and see how he is. It’s got to be discussed, but as a trainer I’m very hopeful he’ll stay in training next year and I think he’ll just continue improving physically and strengthening, so hopefully if he doesn’t win his Group One this year he’ll certainly get it next year.
“I’d say the race at Longchamp (Moulin) will probably come a bit quick for him, maybe we’ll wait for the QEII at Ascot.”
By Press Association Sport Reporters
Zavateri is primed for his tilt at the City of York Stakes, according to Eve Johnson Houghton, as 18 runners remained in contention for the seven-furlong Group One highlight at York on Ebor day.
After a setback in the spring which ruled out a Guineas campaign and Royal Ascot, Johnson Houghton’s three-year-old colt is still looking for a first win this campaign.
But a comeback race full of promise when fifth behind Bow Echo in the Sussex Stakes suggested he retained all his ability and now his trainer is keen to make up for lost time, back in trip to the seven furlongs on Saturday.
“I think he was a bit ring rusty and he had a good blow at Goodwood so he probably needed it more than I thought he did,” said Johnson-Houghton. “But he has come on a bundle since and I couldn’t be happier with him.
“I can’t see why he won’t run well at York. He is very, very straightforward. So absolutely it is all systems go for the race.”
He could renew rivalry with Queen Anne winner Ten Bob Tony, a place and a length and a half a length ahead of him at Goodwood as well as Lennox Stakes winner Lake Forest, just under two lengths back in seventh, who was having his second run in two days.
Lockinge winner Notable Speech may drop in trip while Japanese raider Satono Reve could be an intriguing runner stepping up from placed efforts in top sprints like the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes and the July Cup.
Aidan O’Brien’s 1000 Guineas winner True Love spearheads a possible three-strong entry from Ballydoyle with Puerto Rico and Dorset also among the entries.
Andrew Balding’s Flora Of Bermuda, Native Warrior, a Group Three winner at Leopardstown last time out, and Chipchase winner Paborus give Wathnan Racing a potentially strong hand.
Lennox second Rogue Diplomat may get the chance to continue his upward progress at the highest level among the 18 who remain.
Damysus will aim to go two places better than on the Knavesmire last time out following his third to Item in the York Stakes if lining up for the Group Two opener, the Sky Bet Strensall Stakes.
The John and Thady Gosden-trained four-year-old will be one of the leading fancies for the nine-furlong contest which has attracted 14 entries at the five-day stage.
Boiling Point (Karl Burke), Geryon (Ger Lyons), Persica (Richard Hannon) and Archivist (Hamd Al Jehani) are other notable entries.
Burke and Wathnan Racing could also team up with the likely favourite when Wild Blossom bids to build on the promise of her Alice Keppel Stakes win at Goodwood in the Julia Graves Roses Stakes.
Molecomb Stakes runner-up Adonius looks set to provide the stiffest competition in a race that has attracted 22 entries at the five-day stage.
By Gideon Brooks, Press Association
It is 59 years since Arthur Stephenson’s Forlorn River took his place on the Nunthorpe roll of honour, but now County Durham’s Tracy Waggott is dreaming of recreating the glory days of a proud racing region with her horse of a lifetime, Heavenly Heather.
Thoughts immediately turn to The Thinker and his snow-laden Cheltenham Gold Cup success of 1987 when Stephenson’s name is uttered. But 20 years prior to his Prestbury Park heroics it was in fact York and its showpiece sprint that would provide the incomparable ‘W.A.’ with his first notable success.
He would enjoy further success at York’s Ebor Festival when Forlorn River’s son Rapid River stormed to Gimcrack honours in 1972, while Bishop Auckland neighbour Denys Smith only enhanced the region’s rich racing heritage with his own stellar career including Red Alligator’s Grand National triumph of 1968.
However, with Stephenson and Smith’s achievements consigned to the walls of the local pubs adorned in racing memorabilia, it is Waggott – whose Spennymoor base is just a strongly thrown stone away from Stephenson’s old Crawleas centre of excellence – that is attempting to rekindle the glory days in a land that takes the utmost pride in its equine heroes.
Waggott, who also trains just 13 miles from where Michael Dods sent out Mecca’s Angel to win back-to-back Nunthorpes in 2015 and 2016, said: “Every time I go to the shops someone asks me how such and such is going, or telling me don’t worry this one will win next time. There’s always someone asking a question about the horses or offering their best wishes.
“I enjoy training where I am. I used to work for Denys Smith and I’ve always had a lot to do with the lads at Arthur Stephenson’s. I’ve always been really friendly with them all throughout my life so it’s good to be representing the area.
“We’re just keeping our fingers crossed now they’ll have something to cheer on at York.”
That something to cheer will hopefully be provided by the improving Heavenly Heather, a horse whose journey started local and one who has already secured her place in northern racing folklore thanks to her shock 200-1 All-Weather Championships Finals Day success in April 2025.
Still a maiden, but with plenty of Gosforth Park experience under her belt, it was a late call from Waggott to send the horsebox on a short trip up the A1 that would not only pay dividends but also provide the biggest success of her training career to date.
Remembering that unbelievable first triumph of the five-year-old’s career, Waggott explained: “I was scanning the entries at 11.45am and I was left thinking ‘this is a bad race’.
“We threw her in and she won which was tremendous and then she has just gone from strength to strength.
“I didn’t back her – I wish I did – but I did think we would be in the first four.”
Heavenly Heather, named after part-owner Chris Rain’s late mother, would return with regularity to Tyneside as her stature began to grow, but it is since turning her attentions to turf that she has taken the bold leap into elite company, mixing it with the very best of the sprint division this term.
“She was going really well and she liked Newcastle but I do think she’s a better horse on the grass now,” continued Waggott.
“She’s got loads sharper and every time she has run she has needed to come further back in trip and has just been getting faster and keener and then the last one off the bridle. Now she’s just a star here.”
Heavenly Heather’s progress would see her fulfil her owner’s long-held dream of competing at Royal Ascot, a first for the trainer and one that brought a whole new level of nerves and anticipation to accompany the glitz and glamour of the summer’s most regal event.
Now having firmly eclipsed the achievements of Waggott’s former sprinting star Intrinsic Bond with her sixth-place King Charles III Stakes performance, all eyes turn to Heavenly Heather’s Nunthorpe bid in a race not afraid of offering up a romantic outcome.
“She’s definitely got a touch of class and along with Intrinsic Bond is the best we’ve had here,” added Waggott.
“She was our first runner at Ascot and the owners always wanted a runner at Royal Ascot so we had to go. It was a tremendous occasion and she deserved her chance there and she ran exceptional. We were over the moon with her.
“It’s a bit more local this time, just down the road which brings a little less stress. She’s a very free sweating mare but I love going to York as the stables are out the way and she will be nice and relaxed.
“We’ve really freshened her up and we’ve now just got to keep our fingers crossed. If she gets a nice draw at York and a bit of cover I really do think she will run well.”
Margot Did, Jwala, Alpha Delphini and Live In The Dream have all surprised on the Knavesmire since Sole Power’s daring late dart at 100-1 in 2010 in a race that has a habit of throwing up big-priced winners.
By Adam Morgan, Press Association
The Highveld’s eight-race Vaal programme on Wednesday 19 August offers punters plenty of ammunition, with potential doubles for trainers Fanie Bronkhorst and St John Gray, while jockeys Philasande Mxoli and Craig Zackey also have realistic opportunities to strike twice.
Bronkhorst could make a serious impact when the Pick 6 gets underway in Race 3. Korcula has been a costly customer for punters, but five successive third-place finishes tell their own story: she is knocking loudly on the door. The four-year-old daughter of Hawwaam gets a new rider in Calvin Habib, and this could be the occasion when he finds the little bit extra required to finally get her head in front over 1400m.
If Korcula delivers, stable companion Uncle Bob could complete the quickfire double in Race 4. This three-year-old has finished runner-up in his last two starts over 1600m and does not need to improve much to break through over the extra 200m. Zackey partnered him in both those races and his decision to stick with the son of Heavenly Blue is a significant positive. Punters should take the hint.
St John Gray’s Olympian Gold is another runner whose recent form deserves close attention. The lightly raced Potala Palace colt made a winning seasonal return over 1600m on the Turffontein Standside track and now steps up to 1800m in Race 5. The five-point penalty is unlikely to stop his progression, particularly with further improvement expected over the extended trip.
Mxoli, who produced the winning ride last time, retains the partnership and can give Gray a chance of a double in Race 7. After Hours may be nine years of age and a veteran of 109 starts, but the old warrior has been rejuvenated and is capable of making his experience count over 1600m. Mxoli knows him, and that familiarity could prove valuable.
Zackey, meanwhile, is still searching for his first winner of the new season (at the time of writing) after his well-earned break, but the champion jockey has several opportunities to put that statistic right. His best chance of a second winner on the card may come in the finale aboard Quiet Winter for Lucky Houdalakis.
The What A Winter filly has been nearing a return to form and now gets an appealing set-up: a career-low mark, a favourable outside draw down the Vaal straight and a rider with plenty to prove after his quiet start to the campaign. At the right price, she could be the value play that rounds off the meeting.
Earlier, in the opening race, Tony Peter’s three-pronged attack sets the tone, where Master Christmas looks the one to beat. The Master Of My Fate gelding is proven at a higher level, is ideally suited by the distance and should appreciate this drop in class. Kabelo Matsunyane’s mount looks a solid banker-type option to kick-start proceedings.
Clive Robinson
RACE 1: SUMBE PRIX DU CALVADOS (FILLIES’ GROUP 2) (3YO) (FROM DEAUVILLE RACE 1) – 1400M | TIME: 19:58 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 119000
Dee’s Funny Girl (IRE) Showed what she is capable of when a runner-up in a Group 3 at Ascot over 1,200m on 25 July. Could be the one to beat. Woot Woot (IRE) Consistent so far and finished 3rd in a Group 3 over this course and distance on 2 August. Should fight out the finish. Le Bon Temps Roule (IRE) Victorious in a Maiden at this course over 1,200m on 15 August. Clearly talented and has been supplemented. Respect. Yuquot (FR) Came home 5th in a Group 3 over this track and trip on 2 August. Not disgraced that day and could make the frame.
Double Major (IRE) Consistent and finished 3rd in a Group 2 at Longchamp over 2,800m on 14 July. Usually competitive and is quite capable of scoring. Santorini Star (IRE) Returned to form when runner-up in a Group 2 at Goodwood over 2,800m on 1 August. Can go one better this time. Defiantly(FR) Successful in a handicap at Goodwood over 4,100m on 31 July. Drops in distance but deserves respect for that victory. Aeronef (IRE) Still improving and finished 2nd in a Listed race over this track and trip on 8 August. Clearly not out of it.
Gerard Ter Borch (FR) Finished 6th in a Class 2 Handicap over this track and trip on 4 August. Successful before that and can bounce back to score. Johnny Hammer (FR) Showed some improvement when 3rd in a Class 2 Handicap over this course and distance on 4 August. Can be competitive again. Tiego The First (FR) Holding form and finished 4th in a Class 2 Handicap over this course and distance on 4 August. Has claims in an open looking race. Prince Des Villes (FR) Came home 8th in a Class 2 Handicap over this track and trip on 4 August. Seems capable of better and is not out of it.
Great Barrier Reef (IRE) Unbeaten in three starts, the latest in a Group 2 at Ascot over 1,200m on 16 June. Looks the one they all have to beat. Kosuma (FR) Unbeaten in three starts, the latest in a Group 3 over this track and trip on 2 August. Should be right there at the finish. Senorita Bonita (IRE) A winner of two of three starts, including last time out in a Group 2 at Newmarket over 1,200m on 10 July. Can be a threat to these rivals. Man’s Best Friend (IRE) Successful twice in a row, the latest in a Group 2 at Goodwood over 1,200m on 30 July. Can complete a hat-trick.
RACE 5: PRIX GRAND DAX 1ERE DESTINATION THERMALE DE FRANCE MAIDEN STAKES (3YO) (FROM DAX RACE 1) – 2300M | TIME: 22:07 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 19200
Adicta (IRE) Threatening to win a race and finished third in a claimer at Clairefontaine over 2400m on 3 August. Can contest the finish again. Bleu Nuit (IRE) Usually competitive and finished third in a handicap at La Teste over 1800m on 5 August. Can win a race of this nature. Big Victor (FR) Finished 6th in a Conditions Qualifying handicap at Mont-De-Marsan over 2000m on 26 July. Capable of better and might be a threat to these rivals. Chu-lapa (IRE) Has only been moderate so far in Spain and finished 6th at San Sebastian over 2000m on 25 July. Capable of making the frame.
RACE 6: SUMBE PRIX JEAN ET LOUIS ROMANET (FILLIES’ GROUP 1) (G1) (FROM DEAUVILLE RACE 5) – 2000M | TIME: 22:25 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 400000
Diamond Necklace (IRE) Outclassed the opposition in a Group I at Goodwood over 2,000m on 30 July. Unbeaten in 6 starts and can score again. Pink Panthera (FR) Ultra-consistent and was runner-up in a Group 2 at Longchamp over 2,400m on 14 July. Very close second to DIAMOND NECKLACE (11) in the Prix de Diane mid-June. Should be right there at the finish once again. Aventure (IRE) Consistent mare and came home 4th in the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud over 2,400m on 5 July. Highly talented and can get involved with the finish. Rebel Moon Finished 4th in the Irish Oaks at Curragh over 2400m on 18 July. Has more to offer and is not out of it.
Varenne (FR) Has improved of late and was runner-up in a handicap over this course and distance on 31 July. Can go one place better. Kirby (FR) Finished 6th in a handicap at La Teste over 2000m on 5 August. Capable of doing better and is not out of it. Atamak (FR) In good form and was runner-up in a handicap race at this course over 2100m on 17 July. Probably better over shorter but can be competitive. Magnificent Seven (FR) Off form and finished 8th in a handicap at La Teste over 2000m on 5 August. Does well at this course and could be a threat.
Flash Girl (FR) In good form and was fourth in a handicap at Chantilly over 2000m on 7 July. Can win a race of this nature. Happy Saxon (FR) Has improved of late and was fourth in a Class 2 Handicap at Clairefon- taine over 1,800m on 3 August. Can be more competitive this time. Sim Card (FR) Remains in very good shape and was runner-up in a Class 3 Handicap over this course and distance on 4 August. Can go one place better. Simancas (FR) Outclassed the opposition in a Class 3 Handicap at Chantilly over 1,800m on 7 July. Successful three times in last five starts and can score again.
The Magic Man (FR) Finished 4th in a handicap over this track and trip on 31 July. Has shown improvement of late and can score. Theclimb (FR) Finished 4th at San Sebastian over 2000m on 9 August. Did better at this course before that and can make the frame. Great Promise (FR) Threatening to score and was runner-up in a Class 4 Conditions Qualifying handicap at Zonza over 2200m on 12 July. Can be a real threat to these. Moon Of The Night (FR) Finished 6th in a handicap over this track and trip on 31 July. Capable of contesting the finish.
RACE 10: SUMBE PRIX DE LA FORET DE BORD HANDICAP (HCP) (FROM DEAUVILLE RACE 7) – 1600M | TIME: 23:35 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 20200
Whaka (FR) Often competitive and finished 5th in a handicap at Clairefontaine-Deauville over 1400m on 10 August. Ha claims in this race. Romancier Nocturne (FR) Not reliable but was 4th in a handicap at Clairefontaine-Deauville over 1400m on 6 July. Can get involved with the finish once again. Fillette Du Houley (FR) Came home 6th in a Maiden at Granville over 1,700m on 13 July. Needed the last run and can contest the finish. Sociando (FR) Not disgraced when 5th in a handicap at Saint-Malo over 1800m on 1 August. Did better before that and should be very competitive.
Frejulfe (FR) Finished 8th in a handicap at Vichy over 2400m on 21 July. Capable of doing better and could win a race like this. Bankhovski (FR) In good form and was runner-up in a handicap at Mont-De-Marsan over 2450m on 23 July. Can go one place better. Silvarole Fal (FR) Not reliable and finished 9th in a handicap at Dieppe over 2200m on 30 July. Did win over this course and distance before that and is not out of it. Lovatree Paris (FR) Finished 13th in a handicap at Vichy over 2400m on 21 July. Clearly capable of doing better and could make the frame.
RACE 12: SUMBE PRIX DE LA FORET DE ROUVRAY HANDICAP (HCP) (FROM DEAUVILLE RACE 8) – 1600M | TIME: 00:10 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 18200
Queen Luna Game (FR) Not disgraced when 5th in a handicap at Vichy over 2000m on 22 July. Has claims in a very open looking race. I Liked It (FR) Not reliable and finished 9th in a handicap at Le Touquet over 1300m on 26 July. Successful before that and could be a threat. Fasoldofa (FR) Not disgraced when third in a Maiden at Rochefort Sur Loire over 1,800m on 2 August. Tries a handicap but is not out of it. Pressure Test (IRE) Finished 9th in a handicap at Dieppe over 1800m on 13 July. Unreliable but is capable of contesting the finish.
RACE 13: PRIX CHARLES & ERIC BOULART CLAIMING STAKES (2YO) (FROM DAX RACE 5) – 1400M | TIME: 00:28 | PRIZE MONEY: EUR 12000
Gypsea (FR) Has improved of late and finished third in a claimer at La Teste over 1400m on 26 July. The one to beat. Fleur Celeste (FR) Finished 8th on debut in a Conditions Maiden race at Mont-De-Marsan over 1400m on 26 July. Capable of improvement and is not out of it. Merci Agathe (FR) Showed improvement when runner-up at this course over 1200m on 31 July. Can go one place better. King Fierce (FR) Finished 7th in a claimer at La Teste over 1400m on 15 July. He finished very close to Petit Genie, who then finished second at Vichy. Respect.
Argentarius Soon led, joined after 400m, headed after 800m, finished 4th, 4 lengths behind winner Samnina at Galway 1400m July. Red Primrose (IRE) Held rear middle division, 6th at halfway, pushed 400m out, finished strong to close 3rd, 2.75 lengths behind winner at Naas 1000m in Jun. Formous (IRE) Starman filly out of Asrafairy. Annie Tips (IRE) Mid-pack far side, moved closer 400m out, no impact final 200m, finished 8th, 4.5 lengths behind Walk On Harry at Cork 1000m 2yo Maiden.
Zoar (USA) Led halfway, pressured 200m out, finished 2nd, 2.25 lengths behind Man’s Best Friend over 1200m at Naas in Jul. Roeillaun (IRE) Tracked leaders, 6th at halfway, improved 400m out, led at 200m, headed late, finished 2nd, 0.5 lengths behind Fighting Tears at Curragh 1200m, 2yo. Miss Cashman Hooke (IRE) Starspan- gledbanner filly out of Pink Damsel. Capital Of Pride (IRE) Tracked second, dropped to fourth after 400m, edged right, finished fifth, 2.75 lengths behind winner at 1000m 2yo Novice Stakes.
Havana Anna Slow start, tracked leaders, weakened to finish 7th, 5 lengths behind Cover Up over 1000m at Curragh in Jul. First Instinct Wore earplugs, midfield, moved up 400m out, second place by neck behind Flora Of Bermuda at York 1200m Group 3 Stakes in Jul. Soul Love Prominent, disputed lead, led 400m out, narrowly held on under pressure, won 1200m Novice Stakes at Naas by 0.5 length. Dancing Saxon (IRE) Started mid-division, moved to 6th, led in final 200m, won 1400m 3YO Handicap at Galway by 4.5 lengths.
Simmering Seas (IRE) Held rear mid-division, improved to 4th at 400m, closed well to finish 2nd, 2.25 lengths behind Amerilis at Cork 1000m Handicap. Dandy Land (IRE) Tracked leaders, 3rd 400m out, 2nd and ridden 200m out, led inside final 100m, won by 1.25 lengths. Step Back In Time (IRE) Mid-field early, improved over 400m, finished 3rd, 1.5 lengths behind Dandy Land in a 1000m Handicap at Naas. Nebrook Star (IRE) Bumped at start, mid-pack, urged from 400m out, weakened to finish 7th, 8 lengths behind Institute at Dundalk 1000m Novice Stakes.
Diamond Exchange (IRE) Tracked leaders, 3rd halfway, pushed over 400m out, ridden over 200m out, kept well, won at Naas 1600m + 600m Handicap beating Nakasero by head. Guardian Of Realm Led throughout, won easily by 6 lengths at Fairyhouse over 1400m in May, beating Mai Dahlia. Port Of Spain (IRE) Tracked leaders, ridden in sixth 400m out, finished 7th, 5 lengths behind Thread Of Gold over 2200m Handicap in Jul. Alice Monet (IRE) Soon led, pressed near straight, headed 200m out, finished 3rd, 1.75 lengths behind winner at Sligo 1600m handicap.
