Coming into the new season there was a group of unexposed 3yr olds who had shown plenty of promise. Million Thanks was at the head of that group having our in a couple of fine efforts at 2. Returning at Musselburgh, Million Thanks took his first career win in the 1m Bet At racing.tv Maiden Stakes.
Owner and breeder, Mr Jaber Abdullah has been synonymous with quality, seeing his colours carried to victories in some of racing’s top level contests. Alongside this he has been able to develop a fantastic band of broodmares, leading to a successful breeding operation. Million Thanks is a product of that system, out of an unraced dam who is a half sister to a Group 1 performer. Million Thanks has the pedigree and he certainly has the physique to match.
Two placed efforts last year had signalled that Million Thanks had plenty of ability. Although running well there was a feeling that there might be something just preventing him from really hitting his full potential. This led to a small wind op at the turn of the year which should allow the 3yr old to showcase his full ability.
Lining up over a mile, Million Thanks had 9 rivals for his return. HIs even money price showed that he was the one to beat, although it wouldn’t be straight forward. Kevin Stott was booked for the ride and gave the chestnut a confident ride throughout.
Settled towards the rear, Million Thanks tracked over to race closer to the rail. Kevin had him in a very relaxed rhythm as he slotted in behind a wall of horses. The early pace was fair but nothing too strenuous, as his main market rival took the field along. Galloping down the back straight, the field went through the first couple of furlongs before turning into the right handed home bend.
The long striding Million Thanks was going too well around the bend that he closed up on the heels of his rival. Kevin just had to angle him out as they bared down on the home straight. Keeping him in rhythm, and safe from clipping heels, Million Thanks would be coming down towards the centre of the track. As they straightened up the field concertinaed towards the far side rail and Kevin continued to wait patiently in behind.
Angling out for a run around 2 1/2f out, Million Thanks made smooth headway. Swinging past rivals he quickly moved up towards the leader, with just this duo still on the bridle. Kevin cajoled his mount, trying to get the colt to lengthen. Although he edged right, Million Thanks still looked full of running as they moved between the 2f and 1f pole. The leader was finding in front and with Million Thanks running a little green still, plus trying to hit top gear, Kevin would just need to get a little busier in the saddle. His rival was proving very game in front and combined with Million Thanks taking his time, it was looking as though there would be a real tussle towards the line. Kevin never had to get serious but he certainly had to garb hold of his mount to educate. It seemed to take an age but Million Thanks finally managed to get on top in the dying strides to grab a neck victory.
The winning margin might not have been that impressive but there is plenty to take away from this performance. He took plenty of time to find his feet but that is understandable with his lovely, big stride. Kevin had to educate the colt and he will certainly come on for that run. Now he has three runs under his belt, Million Thanks will receive a handicap mark so it will be interesting to see how he is assessed. There is plenty to look forward to and it does feel as though he could get a little further within time.
Racing is a wonderful sport to meet people and there are many owners who have been with Kevin for years. There are some winners that just mean a little bit more and Forza Orta taking the 1m5f Patersons Of Greenoakhill Buttonhook Handicap at Hamilton was one of those wins.
Martin Wainwright began as an owner with Kevin over two decades and through that time his love of racing saw him build up a breeding operation near Wetherby. Success on the course and in the sales ring, Highbank Stud has made a name in the racing and breeding world. Unfortunately Martin sadly passed away at the end of last year but his passion has been passed on and Highbank Stud continues in the hands or Tom an Iris Wainwright. Forza Orta was the first winner since and his poignant success was wonderful to see.
The son of Fastnet Rock was always going to be a project and he didn’t hit the track until 3 yrs old. Last year he showed plenty of promise, finishing runner up on his first four starts before gaining a much deserved win at Hamilton. It was clear he needed a trip and having returned to Thirsk with a good third placed effort, Forza Orta would tackle 1m5f for the first time back at the scene of his sole win.
Unfortunately Shane Gray couldn’t make the ride so Rowan Scott was back in the saddle, having ridden him last time out. Settling into fourth place from the off, Forza Orta had a nice pitch as the field charged past the stands, running the straight course in reverse. Chasing the leaders, they headed up to the loop of Hamilton. Entering it they went left handed before switching over to right to swing around.
Forza Orta had the leaders in his sights throughout the contest but swinging around the top of the loop he just had to be nudged along. He never lost any ground but for a moment it was a little unsettling. Coming back down the home straight, Rowan angled his mount out for a clear view and it was here that Forza Orta began to come on strong. At the half mile point Forza Orta had moved up to within 1/2 length as he cruised into contention.
In running backers may well have been smashing the button when Forza Orta joined the long time leader, swinging under Rowan. Over the final 3f there were two major factors. The leader proved very game and Forza Orta took quite a while to really top gear. It was Rowan who went for his mount first and the response was not immediate. Lengthening and lengthening, the giant stride of Forza Orta needed plenty of ground to warm up. Locked into a battle the two leaders were neck and neck. Rowan could lean on his experience of the gelding and knew he would stay so continued to drive. Forza Orta took his time but edged his nose to the front 1/2 out and stayed well up the hill. He eventually ran out a 3/4 length winner.
Forza Orta looks a really nice stayer in the making and again he required every yard of this new trip. He certainly isn’t a push button horse and requires time to lengthen but he is very progressive. How far will be his optimum is up for debate and it does seem as though another furlong could be in order next time out. He isn’t the finished article yet and Forza Orta could well be a cup horse in the making.
With so much racing racing on there were options and decisions to be made. It can be the difference between winning and losing but the correct call was made. Rathbone was back to winning ways as he made all in the 6f Cazoo Handicap at Doncaster.
Two wins and a couple of big placed efforts saw Rathbone shoot up to 96 in the handicap. Unfortunately he couldn’t maintain the upward trend and has steadily been coming back down. Two runs this season looked to have him close to winning again but a no show at Redcar proved to be not only disappointing but quite a head scratcher.
With entries in at Newmarket and Doncaster, the latter was chosen with very few declarations being made. The small field of six would diminish even further with two non-runners, meaning only four would line up on the day. Tom Eaves took the ride and Rathbone would be donning cheek-pieces to try and spark him back to form.
Tactically Tom took the race by the scruff of the neck and bounced Rathbone to lead immediately. With nothing wanting to challenge him, Rathbone led the field setting comfortable fractions. The trio of rivals tucked in behind to race in single file. This would be the story of the race as very little would change.
Rathbone was showing that he was on song and travelled smoothly to halfway. Having been left alone in front, Tom now begun to loosen the reins, ready to kick. It was baring down on the 2f marker where the pace increased as Rathbone set sail for home. Suddenly he opened up a clear advantage and caught his rivals on the hop. As the rest played catch up, Rathbone was lengthening and was in full flow.
Tom got serious moving into the final furlong and the clear lead was maintained. He had made his move and now it was about could he see it out. Old rival, Comanche Falls, was closing as he took second to give chase. Rathbone was proving very game in front and responded tall of Tom’s urgings. The lead was shortening as Rathbone neared the finish, the exertions were starting to tell. All the good work he had done between the 3f and 2f poles were showing and Rathbone ran out a 1/2 length winner.
When he is good, he is very good but sometimes you are not sure which Rathbone will turn up. He is a horse very capable of being involved in the major sprint handicaps but consistency has always been his downfall. Tom got the tactics spot on and it might just be that changing things up constantly helps Rathbone run to his best. There will be plenty more days with him and hopefully Rathbone can hit higher heights this season.
Winning debutante and then stepped up in class, it is not something that Kevin takes lightly. Sometimes it doesn’t work out but it is a move that Kevin does not take lightly and will only do so if he feels they are good enough. Anadora was the yard’s first 2yr old winner last season and she won again but this time on her seasonal debut when battling for the 6f bet365 Handicap at Newmarket.
Royal Ascot, York, Goodwood, Anadora went to all the big meetings last year. Her record of just the one win may have looked a shade disappointing from the outside but she ran with credit in some huge races. Towards the end of the season there was a suspicion that maybe she had grown. Anadora had proven to be an early juvenile and did maintain her form through the season but just wasn’t quite finishing her races of as before. There was a suspicion that she may well have a bit of strengthening up to do and as a 3yr old she could be better.
Over the winter the filly really filled out and her homework proved that she certainly had matured. Trip wise Anadora had shaped as though 6f would suit but last year it seemed as though she could never quite see it out. Coming back a different model all together, confidence was far higher now and Kevin targeted the 3yr old handicap at Newmarket’s Craven meeting.
Old ally Neil Callan was booked for the ride and if there is one place where he has proven lethal in the past, it is at racing’s HQ. Sent off the outsider at 25/1 showed the competitiveness of the race but Anadora was quickly out from the gates. Allowed to hit her stride she moved forward and soon pressed the leaders who were setting a good early gallop. As the race settled down the field raced up the centre of the track but were quite spread out.
Anadora was always covering the leader throughout the first half of the race which kept the tempo quite high. Passing halfway the race began to unfold, a long way from home when you have the uphill finish to contend with. Callan began to wind the filly up as they galloped into the famous dip, gaining momentum for when they hit the rising ground. Anadora edged her nose to the lead passing the bushes but did just move left as Neil became a little more animated in the saddle.
The strong gallop had sorted the field out quite quickly with those forcing the issue fading. Anadora held a narrow lead and was the only one still fighting it out but she did look as though she was a bit of a sitting duck. Hitting the bottom of the dip they raced into the final furlong and Anadora lost her lead. She quickly changed legs and Neil now asked for everything. Well the lead change lasted a matter of strides with Anadora quickening up and forcing her way to the front again.
Spread across the track, there was a three way tussle deep inside the final furlong. Anadora had laid down her marker and held the advantage, something she was not willing to give up. Along the rail she could see her nearest challenger but over the other side of the track she had to wary of a fast finisher. Neil asked for everything and he got that in spades with Anadora, head to ground, eating up the turf and battling away. The 6f was no issue now and she gamely hit the line well, securing a second career win by 1/2 length.
Off a mark of 85, Anadora was once again winning on her first start of the season and this may well be something that Kevin keeps in mind. There is potential that the filly may appreciate a little bit of time in between races so a pre planned programme will be in order. Obviously the handicapper will have his say about this too and whatever he decides with her handicap mark may steer her in a certain way. Kevin always like the filly and there will be some hope for connections that she may well pick up black type. With an attitude like this Anadora can only go from strength to strength and really fulfil her potential.
This is the time of year where most horses will be returning to the track following their winter breaks and pre-seasons. Along with this it is a time of excitement, with some horses seeking improvement or fulfilling their potential. Ballet Steps and Boonie had differing juvenile seasons but they couldn’t have been more impressive when both winning at Nottingham.
Ballet Steps had made the perfect start to her racing career when she was a 2yr old debutante winner. An immediate step up in grade may have just been a little too soon but with only 3 runs under her belt, this season could see the unexposed filly improve through the ranks. Again Ballet Steps proved too good on her first run of the year when she bolted up in the 5f Every Race Live On Racing TV Handicap.
Having found listed company a little too hot on just her second start, Ballet Steps ran once more and earned a handicap mark. An initial mark of 73 seemed quite lenient but the winter months would give her time to grow and strengthen. Having done well for the break, Ballet Steps came to hand early and Kevin aimed to her out early on in the turf season.
The seven runners all brought a different profile and Ballet Steps was the one in the field who was most open to improvement. That said she didn’t have the benefit of a recent run so the contest looked fairly open. Danny Tudhope took the ride for his retained ownership.
Jumping well, Ballet Steps was able to take a lad through the early stages, tracking a strong pace. Danny had the filly travelling sweetly in his hands and she matched the leader’s pace with ease. The seven runners congregated towards the centre of the track and little separated first to last.
Passing halfway, Ballet Steps began to make a little headway as Danny just switched her left, toward the far side. With daylight the filly crept into contention but was doing so comfortably. As Ballet Steps moved forward her rivals came under pressure and suddenly Danny had to make a decision. He gave the filly a squeeze but probably didn’t quite think the reposes would be what he got. Quickening up down the far side, Ballet Steps passed her rivals and snatched the lead away in strides. The race was blown apart at this stage but Danny was keen to get a good run into the filly, especially with it being her first run. Getting lower in the saddle he pushed his mount along and the filly continued to respond. Moving into the final furlong the race was over as the lead grew and grew. It was a victory lap for the filly as she blew her rivals away by 5 lengths.
This performance could not have been any more impressive and there could be more to come from Ballet Steps. She travelled particularly well but then quickened and put the race to bed within a matter of strides. Obviously a performance like this will get the attention of the handicapper but it would be hard to know how much would have stopped her on this display. Whatever the revised mark is will decide where she can go next but Ballet Steps has certainly proven to be a nice prospect for the year ahead.
Picture – @Steven_Cargill
One of the 3 yr olds who looked set for a big 2022 was Boonie, having had a decent juvenile season he was aiming even higher this year. Having participated at some of the top meetings, showcasing plenty of ability, Boonie was hopefully going to go even better than that and be a fixture at those big days. He couldn’t have got off to a better start when he took the 5f Bet At racingtv.com Conditions Stakes.
Boonie had built a reputation within the yard from as early as his first piece of work, showing natural speed. The powerful, burly colt was expected to go on to have a smart 2yr old season and he managed to back it up. Winning impressively on debut, Boonie would then step up in class to pattern company. Finishing third in the listed Windsor Castle and again in the Gr 3 Molecomb Stakes, he proved that he was well worth his place at that level. Unfortunately the season petered out with a disappointing run but that was at the end of a long season so hopes were far from dashed for the colt.
Winter months are very intriguing times, non more so than with juveniles moving into their 3yr old season. These youngsters can turn inside out, changing physically with the break. Boonie didn’t grow but he certainly filled out into his frame, developing into the typically powerful looking sprinter. When his work proved to be as good as ever, it was clear that plans would need to be made with the 3yr old sprint program in mind. Thankfully this division now has a good program so connections could plot races for Boonie. The conditions event at Nottingham was the perfect starting point for the colt.
Small but competitive would describe the seven runner field. Most came into the contest with a similar profile to Boonie and it was shown in the open market. Eventually Boonie would take joint favouritism as Kevin Stott took the leg up. Having not seen the track for 228 days, Kevin was taxed with ensuring Boonie settled early doors. The colt jumped well but was not forced and took a position at the rear of the field. Kevin had wanted to take a lead which worked out perfectly as a strong pace was set up front.
There were a couple of strides where Boonie proved quite enthusiastic but he quickly realised what Stott was asking. With many of his rivals taking each other on at the head of affairs, Boonie left well alone and. tracked through the first half of the race. The field blasted past halfway in the blink of an eye and were quickly into the business end.
If anyone had looked away they would have missed the first half of the race but the field go racing as they bared down on the 2f marker. Those who had forced the pace were under a drive but it was the two joint favourites who suddenly came into view. On either side of the group, they moved through dangerously with both travelling well. Kevin gave his mount a squeeze and Boonie swept down the near side, passing his rivals with a brisk turn of foot. This move forced his market rival’s hand and thee two would have the final furlong to battle it out.
Momentum was with Boonie who held a neck advantage moving past the 1f marker. As the lead grew the colt just began to edge over to the far rail which allowed his challenger to close the gap. This glimmer of hope only lasted a split second. Once Boonie caught a glimpse of his rival sneaking up the inner, he found a second wind, quickly opening up clear advantage. Striding out he hit the line powerfully to earn a decisive 3/4 length win.
Everything went to plan and Boonie could not have done anymore on his seasonal return. Kevin had wanted to take a lead, something which he hadn’t done last year. The way Boonie settled was ideal but the turn of foot he showed was very impressive. Edging off a true line was not too much of a worry and can be put down to the first run of the season. Boonie will certainly come on for this run which shows how exciting the season ahead could be. Pattern company is the natural step now and Boonie has certainly shown that he is good enough. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see a step up in trip at some point if connections believe it to be the right move, with a race like the Commonwealth Cup tempting for quality 3yr olds.
Although the 2022 flat season has kicked off, it was the all-weather and NH code that produced a double for the team. Both winners couldn’t have been more impressive in their respective fields and could well have bigger plans in their future. Spiritofthenorth destroyed his rivals at Wetherby before Dark Moon Rising impressed on his return to action at Chelmsford in the evening.
Spiritofthenorth was the epitome of consistent but could never find that elusive victory. Well like the old saying about London buses goes, he waited for that long and then two coming along at once. Having shed the maiden tag last time out on the flat he reverted to Hurdles at Wetherby and ran away with the 2m Join Racing TV Now Maiden Hurdle.
Although recording an impressively consistent run of form, Spiritofthenorth could never break the run of placed efforts to gain a first career win. This had seen him try everything and it was the reason that he was tried over hurdles. Unfortunately it was the same story and he recorded three fine efforts, resulting in placed runs but again missing that first career win. Thankfully that maiden tag was relinquished when he got off the mark at Wolverhampton, something which could hopefully act as a springboard.
Deciding to revert back to NH, Spiritofthenorth lined up at Wetherby as the second top rated in the maiden hurdle. Previous runs had been good but there was a need to settle better throughout the race. Champion jockey elect, Brian Hughes was back int he saddle and took control of the race from the tape going up. Although allowed to go on, Spiritofthenorth decided he wanted to go quicker and settled into his typically free going style. It was a good gallop set and he stretched the field out heading into the first obstacle.
After popping over the first three hurdles the field past the winning post for the first time and swung into their second circuit. Spiritofthenorth settled a bit better now but maintained a clear lead. There is a long run to the next obstacle which did allow a couple of his rivals to close the gap but also let Brian to fill the tank and get a breather.
Spiritofthenorth continued to jump well down the back straight and this saw the leader pile the pressure on with relative ease. With every obstacle taken the lead grew and it seemed as though one more rival dropped out of contention. No mistakes made, Spiritofthenorth was clear swinging for and his nearest rivals were paddling in his wake. Even with three left to jump the race was over, barring any drama. Popping three out and the two out, Spiritofthenorth held a lead of over 30 lengths and it was a case of name you distance. Despite the lead, there is always chance of last hurdle faults and Spiritofthenorth made a big one. Clattering through the final hurdle, he managed to find a leg and stay upright, a real heart in mouth moment for all. Thankfully his one mistake was not costly and Spiritofthenorth cruised him to record an emphatic 32 lengths win.
Barring the last, his jumping was very good and Spiritofthenorth proved far too good for his rivals. Although he set off quite keenly, he did settle and looks to be maturing with each run over the sticks. This win will see his mark changed and opens up plenty of options for him, whether he stays in this code or changes back to the flat. It is just great to see Middleham Park’s owners celebrating another win for Spiritofthenorth after so many near misses.
The evening meeting saw Dark Moon Rising return to action at Chelmsford. The Night of Thunder colt had been an improving type last year but coming into 2022 held some pretty lofty entries. He couldn’t have made a better start to the year as he comfortably took the 1m Woodford Reserve Cardinal Conditions Stakes.
Physically Dark Moon Rising always looked the type who should improve as a 3yr old and this was matched up with his breeding. Everything he did as a juvenile was a bonus so to see him round the season off with a mark of 90 was promising. All those feelings seemed to be proved correct once the colt returned after his winter break, with the 3r old filling out and strengthening up.
Entries in the Dante and French Derby show how highly he is rated by Kevin so it was going to be very interesting to see where he would start his colt off. Obviously Dark Moon Rising has a long way to go before those races but Kevin immediately stamped his intentions when declaring the colt for the £100,000 conditions race. Not only was it a great prize but also holds an invitation to the Kentucky Derby. The line up of 6 3yr olds saw highly rated animals against potential. Dark Moon Rising would actually need to find 13lbs with the top rated Harrow, showing the task ahead of him.
Kevin Stott travelled for the ride and produced a confident display in the saddle. Bustled out of the gates to get into stride Dark Moon Rising was sent to the front by Stott and got there after a little work. It wasn’t uncontested and they had to dispute front running duties. As they swung around the first bend, Dark Moon Rising ended up sitting on the leader’s girth who took a keen hold up the inside rail.
The pace was not the strongest throughout the contest and halfway out there was a change up front, which demoted Dark Moon Rising to third spot. Kevin is not one for panicking and maintained his spot as they entered the home bend. The colt travelled smoothly and when the pace quickened, just before the straight, Dark Moon Rising moved up dangerously. Kevin loosened the reins and let the colt lengthen.
Swinging into the home straight Dark Moon Rising moved up to challenge, making his run up the centre of the track. Kevin got lower in the saddle and asked his mount to go and quicken up. Dark Moon Rising too a few strides but moved up through the gears and poked his nose to the front. With every yard he was coming on stronger and Dark Moon Rising was beginning to gain momentum moving into the final furlong. The favourite was the one who tried to lay down a challenge but Dark Moon Rising had the lead and proved to be the strongest. The further they went the stronger he was and Dark Moon Rising strode out to a comfortable 1 1/2 length win.
It was an impressive display from Dark Moon Rising, especially first time out this year as he will come on for the run. He travelled well but was strongest at the line which does suggest that 1m2f should be no issue in time. With the runner up rated 103, Dark Moon Rising will certainly get a big hike in the handicap now but the aim could well be higher than handicap company. There was plenty of excitement behind Dark Moon Rising and he has done nothing to quell that.
The new turf season is upon us as Doncaster’s Lincoln meeting raises the curtain on 2022. It is always a time for excitement and expectation, with everyone wanting to get off to a flyer. Seven Brothers has proven to be an early starter, winning first time out in the past two years and that trend continued as he took the 7f SBK Price+ Gives You The Best Odds Handicap on his seasonal return.
Having won at Town Moor last season, Seven Brothers was returning to a happy hunting ground. Unfortunately following his win, form proved to be quite poor and this meant that he would begin this season 2lb lower than last. Although all 3 previous wins had come over 6f, there was a piece of form over 7f that arguably was one his best performances. Therefore when he was declared for the competitive contest, there was confidence that he could recapture some form and give some foundations to build upon for the rest of the year.
The race was typically ultra competitive with a real mix of opposition. Seven Brothers was towards the head of the market but like many of his rivals there would be a question mark of race fitness, against those who had runs on the all weather. Kevin Stott was on board and had quite a fluid mindset going into the contest, riding as he found the race unfold.
Seven Brothers jumped quite well but hampered slightly when leaving the stalls. Quickly he recovered and got into his stride, moving forward to lead the field. Although not left alone in front, his rivals seemed happy enough with the pace being set. Seven Brothers set a nice even gallop which would favour all runners.
The 18 runners were spearheaded by Seven Brothers but with a sensible pace, it meant that the field were well bunched through the first half of the race. Recent weather meant that the ground had ridden a little bit dead on the opening day but further sunshine dried it our further. Moving down past halfway all runners had their chance if good enough. Kevin loosened his grip on the reins passing the 3f marker, allowing his mount to lengthen and wind up the tempo in front. This injection of pace did change the complexion of the race, as the field began to work and cover the leader’s move.
Heading into the final 2f the first two, who had been the first two throughout, quickened up and moved clear of the field. Kevin was now in full drive and was getting the response he asked for. Seven Brothers was being challenged hard but was not relenting and kept his nose in front. It was a titanic battle between the front two and passing the 1f marker there was barely daylight between the pair. Whilst that was going on up front, the favourite, along with a few others, were cutting into the deficit. Seven Brothers was beginning to get on top of his long time rival, just edging a little further with each stride. He was bravely holding on in front as the calvary came to throw down their challenge. Stott and Seven Brothers were not to be denied and showing strength and bravery the pair fought their way to a 1/2 length victory.
Obviously it is clear that Seven Brothers enjoys the feeling of running fresh with 3 of his career wins coming on his seasonal debut. Once again he showed a brave and game attitude, repelling challengers and galloping all the way to the line. It will be interesting to see what the handicapper does with him but hopefully this season, another year older, Seven Brothers can build and improve on this win.
Cheltenham is here and is rightly takes centre stage in the racing world. Whilst the National Hunt stars trade blows, it means that the flat is getting ever closer and a double at Newcastle got the excitement building. Two horses who looked to have bags of potential got wins under their belts with Monsieur Jumbo breaking his duck and Ben Macdui winning for the first time since his debut.
Carravagio was one of the mots exciting young stallions last year when his first crop began to hit the track. Monsieur Jumbo was the only one of his progeny that ended up at Hambleton Lodge but he certainly took the eye from day one. Physically he ticked all the boxes and when his early work matched up, there was excitement surrounding the grey colt. Unfortunately his early promise, starting with a runner up debut, didn’t quite pan out. Although Monsieur Jumbo went close a couple of times, his juvenile season was quite underwhelming and it was hard to think that he couldn’t gain his first win. That first career win came at the first try in 2022 when he took the 7f MansionBet Proud Partners Of AWC Novice Stakes.
Over the winter Monsieur Jumbo did very , filling into his frame and giving the impression that maybe he could go on this year. Quite possibly the disappointment of last season could be put down to immaturity but Monsieur Jumbo would need to prove this quickly. Coming to hand early, Kevin had the choice of races but opted for the Novice route. Monsieur Jumbo would line up at Newcastle to take on 10 rivals, stepping up to 7f for the first time.
With Kevin Stott in the saddle, Monsieur Jumbo was quickly anchored towards the rear of the field. He was in good company as the main market rivals were in a similar position, taken back to gain cover throughout the early stages. The free going leader ensured there was a decent pace on up front and therefore the field charged through the first part of the race. Monsieur Jumbo travelled well for the first part of the race and always had the favourite in his eyesight.
Although there was plenty of racing left, it was clear passing the 3f marker that the race was suiting those coming from behind. The strong gallop was always going to test the field but with big outsiders on the front end, it did appear that closers would fight out the finish. Kevin just stalked the favourite and as his rival made headway, Monsieur Jumbo was like his shadow. The pair cruised through the field, sliding between rivals to move into a dangerous position.
Heading into the final couple of furlongs the fancied runners came to the fore, and did so with ease. Stott was the first to lay down their challenge and lowered himself into his drive. Jumbo began to lengthen as he joined the favourite, with the pair edging towards the stands side. This move applied the pressure and the two now started to move away from the rest. Although first to come under a drive, it was Monsieur Jumbo who suddenly looked the stronger. The favourite had travelled with ease but once let down, didn’t find the same as Jumbo.
Passing the 1f marker, Monsieur Jumbo held the lead and started to turn the screw. Shifting through the gears and lengthening all the time, Jumbo was thriving with his new trip. The further they went the stronger Jumbo looked and was always edging the favourite. His lead grew inch by inch as the grey strode out to claim a 3/4 length victory.
It was great to see Monsieur Jumbo get his head in front and hopefully it is just the springboard for him. He has always shown plenty of ability and maybe now he has come to himself, physically and mentally. Throughout the race he travelled very well, picked up with ease and saw out the trip powerfully. It will be interesting to see where he goes next but there is lots to look forward to as the turf season approaches.
Only 30 minutes later the double was complete with Ben Macdui taking the 6f Betway Handicap. The second leg of the double came from an entirely different type of career path to that of his stable mate. Ben Macdui hit the ground running in his career, storming home in his debut run as a 2yr old. That win was backed up by a fine 2nd in the Group 3 Molecomb stakes. It looked was though the world was at his feet, but that high was the peak of a steady decline from the now 4yr old gelding.
Ben Macdui’s 3yr old season was not only disappointing but raised so many questions. The answers were hard to come by as the gelding slipped down the handicap mark run after run. Despite this, the signs were still there at home with Ben Macdui showing ability. Obviously this was not transferring to the racecourse and 2021 was a year to forget.
Promise was shown when he returned to action in February and with that run under his belt, Ben Macdui headed to Newcastle to try 6f once again. Only 5 runners lined up and Stott took advantage of a great start to immediately grab the lead. Quickly into stride, Ben Macdui spearheaded the field and set a fair gallop. The stalls had been positioned in the centre of the track but Kevin slowly edged over throughout the first few furlongs to take the field towards the stands side.
With a target on his back throughout, Ben Macdui travelled to the 2f marker with a length lead. The trip has always been a question mark for the gelding and he would tested in the latter stages with his rivals lining up behind for a crack at him. The short priced favourite came through looking full of running and was soon on the heels of Ben Macdui. Kevin wanted to use his momentum and kick off the front so loosened his reins and tried to get his mount to lengthen through the gears.
Ben Macdui proved to be a tough nut to crack and entering the final furlong he still held sway in front. The fav had cruised through but could never get closer than a neck on Ben Macdui who continued to find for pressure. His other rivals were trying hard but the gelding was beating them off with valour. Bravely with his head to the floor, Ben Macdui powered home to win by 1/2 lengths, showing bravery throughout.
Confidence is high and this may be the tonic for Ben Macdui to reverse the trend of the past year. The first win since 2020, Ben Macdui showed all the right traits in winning and if he can maintain that then the upward trajectory should take off. From a high of 102 to a winning mark here of 80, there is plenty of room to manoeuvre so hopefully he can go on from this performance.
It is very unusual to have a maiden 5yr old at Hambleton Lodge, especially when the career record has a 66% strike rate of being placed. Spiritofthenorth has been the bridesmaid on so many occasions but that can no longer be said as he gained the all deserved first career win when winning the 1m1f Play 4 To Win At Betway Handicap at Wolverhampton.
Having knocked on the door during his younger days, it was last year that was the really frustrating season. Spiritofthenorth ran 6 times, finishing in the places on all of his runs, splitting the results 50/50 between runner up and third place. He couldn’t seem to catch a break so Kevin decided too turn to a tried and tested method to see if he could find the key to wining. After schooling the gelding over hurdles, it was clear that Spiritofthenorth could certainly jump and so he would have a try in the NH sphere in late 2021. Again running with credit on all three starts, Spiritofthenorth hit the crossbar on all three hurdle runs.
It is very hard not to become a little despondent with all the close calls but we are in a sport which doesn’t give you anything. With a mark 5lb lower on the AW, Spiritofthenorth headed to Wolverhampton to kickstart his 2022. Sam James was a late call up for the ride and he continued his confident recent run of form. Jumping well from the widest draw of all, Spiritofthenorth was quickly into stride and made a move forward down the outer. Sam kept checking his inside and with a clear run he moved across to take up the overall lead, grabbing the rail for good measure.
Spiritofthenorth lead for the majority of the contest although he was joined for a small time down the back straight. Sam had set a good gallop throughout but would increase the tempo as they entered the home bend and moving into the final 3f. Kicking off the bend and slingshotting into the straight, Spiritofthenorth laid down his challenge 2f from home and told his rivals to try and catch him. Opening up a clear length advantage, Spiritofthenorth did give his rivals a sniff of victory as he hung into the centre of the track passing the 1f marker. This saw the lead dwindle but sam was not to be denied and ensured his mount not only kept up to his work but kept moving forward. Pulling his stick through, Sam got the response he wanted and Spiritofthenorth battled to the line, holding on the a 1/2 length lead to gain a first career win.
Although it has taken longer than expected, Spiritofthenorth’s win was very satisfying. All connected with Middleham Park Racing have been very patient but they never lost the fait so it is great to give them this win to celebrate. It could also work as a confidence boost for the gelding and the first taste of victory could hopefully give him the fuel to back this win up.
Consistency is hard to find with sprinters but Digital has certainly been more dependable than most so far in his career. Steadily rising up the handicap, the only poor runs he has had up this point have been in some top class races. Although connections do not like to make excuses there have been a few queries and it was thought that he may well do better again this year. Digital took his best race to date when winning the 5f Betway Handicap at Southwell.
Last season was a strong year for Digital and he was probably a shade unlucky to only have one win to his name. Having reached a mark of 90 he didn’t perform to his usual standards in the Portland, his last run of the season. That was certainly put behind him when he returned to action this year and throughout the winter her has looked as though another winter break has done him the world of good.
Coming to hand early, Kevin decided to test the AW with Digital, a surface he made his debut on. After a fine effort, finishing third on his comeback at Southwell, Digital would drop back to 5f at the same venue. Although he ran a blinder, that first run of the year was sure to blow away any cobwebs and returning to the minimum trip would be a bonus. Only 6 would line up for the contest but it was a strong and competitive field for the £30,000 race.
Kevin Stott was back from his own deserved break and took the ride. The experienced speedsters set strong fractions from the off and Kevin got a lovely lead through the early stages. Settled just off the leaders, Digital travelled comfortably on their heels showing that a return to 5f was no issue at all. They blistered through the first couple of furlongs and were soon baring down on the final couple of furlongs. Blink and you would miss it.
As they entered the final 1/4 mile the leaders attempted to kick from the front but their moves were covered. Kevin gave Digital a squeeze and the gelding moved up to challenge, looking the stronger. Once Kevin got the sniff of victory he quickly went for home but under a strong drive Digital drifted over to the far side. Thankfully the burst of pace had taken him far enough clear to avoid any interference. The favourite Zarzyni tried to give chase but the acceleration shown from Digital proved to be the game changer. Galloping all the way to the line, Digital took the feature race and secured his third career win.
It was great to see the 4yr old back to winning ways and he did so impressively. Travelling powerfully he quickened up nicely and this could be a positive moving into the new season ahead. Sprinters tend to peak with experience and time, allowing their physical attributes to flourish, which could be the case for Digital. He will again be looking at a mark in the 90’s so it will be interesting to see if he sticks to the AW or waits now for the turf season which is just around the corner.
