September 8 – York – Windlord – 81
Only two horses counted according to the betting beforehand and the anticipated battle between the pair was quickly extinguished by the winner, who stayed on extremely powerfully in the final two furlongs. Clearly relishing the step up in trip on slower ground, Andrew Balding’s colt put distance between himself and his pursuers in a short space of time and he ended up clocking one of the fastest juvenile times we have of the season so far. Entered in races such as the Royal Lodge and Futurity in the coming weeks, the son of Dubawi looks more than a worthy candidate in either on the evidence of this commanding display.
September 10 – Lingfield – Sayidah Dariyan – 76
Odds of 1-6 beforehand suggested this would be a stroll in the park for Richard Hughes’ filly, and although that viewpoint was played out in the race itself, the manner of victory and subsequent time figure were more than just pure optics. Quickening well off the home turn, the daughter of Dariyan scooted clear to the tune of 13 lengths and although it’s probably wise not to get too carried away, she looks a ready made pattern race performer in the making.
September 12 – Doncaster – Nakheel – 83
Sumo Sam ensured this keenly-contested fillies Group 2 affair was truly run and it proved an environment in which the winner thrived. Grinding her way to the front at the furlong pole, Owen Burrows’ filly stuck to her task in admiral fashion and this victory was due reward for a series of consistent efforts against similar opposition throughout the season. Clearly suited by the first time cheekpieces and step up in trip, the daughter of Dubawi will be a potent force under similar conditions if kept in training next season.
September 13 – Doncaster – Sweet William – 86
This Group 2 contest for stayers had the potential to be a messy affair but it proved anything but with Trueshan making sure it was a proper test at the trip. Dossing close home, the six-year-old was full value for his length success. Since being fitted with a visor, John & Thady Gosden’s gelding has only suffered defeat at the hands of Kyprios and he took his overall record to five wins, six seconds and three thirds in 14 races. As reliable as they come, the son of Sea The Stars is a credit to his connections and he looks almost certain to give his best again in the Long Distance Cup at Ascot’s Quipco Champions meeting in a month’s time.
September 14 – Doncaster – American Affair – 81
A typically busy finish to this big-field sprint and it was won in game fashion by an improving four-year-old who proved better than the bare result suggested. Although he was potentially well drawn in stall 22, the tactics of riding him ice-cold almost backfired and it was only testimony to the horse’s ability that he managed to get up in the dying strides. Unlucky the time before at Haydock (highlighted in this column), Jim Goldie’s inmate is clearly thriving at present and he will be a massive player if turning out at Ayr this weekend.
September 14 – Leopardstown – Economics – 86
A race worthy of all the hype beforehand and William Haggas’ colt lived up to his star billing with a coming-of-age performance. His wide draw made life difficult for Tom Marquand early, as he was unable to obtain the cover he required but despite that impost, his mount dug deep for pressure late on to outbattle Auguste Rodin, who received a much more smoother passage throughout. Brilliantly handled by his astute trainer, the scopey chestnut will now head to Ascot for his season finale and the clash with Calandagan should turn out to be a mouth-watering affair.
September 14 – Chester – Spirit Mixer – 83
Mr Escobar took no prisoners in this staying handicap, putting his foot down right from the start, and it was only by a bob of the head he lost out on making all the running. The winner, who got a much more conservative ride, was the only one to emerge from the pack to throw down a meaningful challenge and with the pair miles clear of the rest, both come out of the race with a good deal of credit. Looking forward, Andrew Balding’s gelding is entered in the Cesarewitch at Newmarket next month and given his current wellbeing, quotes of 33-1 look on the big side.