Washington Shows His Class
Confidence can be easily misplaced at times and ultimately you can be left disappointed when a plan doesn’t really work out. When you head into a race with a horse dropping in grade, it can be seen a huge positive if they are bringing their class to the table. That was certainly the case for Washington Heights who was trying calmer waters and took full advantage when winning the 5f John Smith’s City Walls Stakes at York.
The 5yo has been a real star for Hambleton Racing, taking his owners to all the big meetings. Having won at Listed level in Sweden, as a 3yo, Washington Heights had to endeavour into group company the following season. He returned as a 4yo with a win in the Group 3 Abernant, before tackling the very best sprinters around in Group 1 company. Always giving 100%, Washington Heights ran with great credit and also looked to be faster with each race.
This season has already been another positive year but a win was the only thing missing. Runner up in Qatar back in February, Washington Heights has run some big races in Gr3 and Gr2 company before a fine effort last time out at Royal Ascot. If he could gain a win before heading back into the top echelon, it would be a real positive for all involved.
It was by no means a penalty kick but the City Walls offered a good opportunity for Washington Heights. He was the best horse in the line up and had conditions to suit. With regular partner, Tom Eaves away, Shane Gray stepped in for the ride and kept things as simple as possible. Washington Heights is a very straight forward ride and Shane was positive from the off.
Disputing the lead early on, Washington Heights was able to stride out in front. Racing within himself, the pace wasn’t mad for a 5f sprint as the 8 runners came up the centre of the track. It did look as though Washington Heights wanted a little bit more pace on but he gradually eased his way to the fore to lead through the first half of the race.
Shane was never in trouble but he did begin to niggle away as they moved past halfway. This was to inject a bit more pace but also to get his mount into his full stride. Washington Heights held the lead and moving inside the final 2f he set sail for home. He was being matched by his nearest rivals and to many watching there was a big danger looming on the far side. As Shane began to ride away, the race looked set for an exciting final furlong.
There aren’t many horses tougher than Washington Heights so he was ready when his rival moved on to his girths. Inside the final furlong, the front two could not be separated but one thing was for sure, Washington Heights would find for pressure, having enjoyed success over further. It took him a little time but in the final 100 yards, Washington Heights found top gear and sprinted away from his nearest pursuers. By the time they hit the line he had opened up a 3/4 length advantage, to secure his second career pattern success.
It was great to see Washington Heights get his head in front as he very much deserved to do so. He was the best horse in the race and duly showed his class. As he has been mixing it with the best sprinters around, he is used to a strong pace but here he had to do much of the donkey work. It took a little time to really hit his flow but when he did he ran out a ready winner. With this confidence boost he will likely be back up in grade, with the Nunthorpe a likely target back over C&D. It was also great to see Shane ride a Listed winner at York. He has been an integral part of Hambleton Lodge ever since he came over as a 17 yr old apprentice and it was great to see him bag a nice win on a legend like Washington Heights.