Volterra Shows His Class

Heritage Handicaps offer some great prize money and prestige to those horses just below pattern company. Many do take the step up to that level which therefore means that they are some of the most competitive races in the calendar. Volterra routed a smart field when he ran away with the 7f BetMGM Challenge Cup at Ascot.

The season couldn’t have started any better for the 3yo colt as he made a winning return at the Craven meeting. Off a mark of 82, Volterra made a mockery of his mark to win by 2 3/4 lengths despite racing quite free throughout the race. This win was eye catching for all and he would be sent off favourite for the Britannia at the Royal meeting. Again he raced with enthusiasm but he did seem to be drawn unfavourably, winning his group but having no impact. Changes in tactics next time out, at Newmarket, really didn’t suit but there was no faith lost in him.

Sticking with his own age group, Volterra showed his true colours at the Ebor meeting. Trying to make all he had the race won, everywhere bar the line, finishing runner up in the final few strides. With few options following that race it was decided to aim for the bigger target at Ascot, where he would be tackling 7f for the first time this season.

Horrible weather had forced the ground team to do plenty of work at Ascot and by race day the ground was soft but had improved throughout the week. Shane Gray was taking the ride as 18 runners lined up for the £180,000 contest. Bouncing out and showing his usual enthusiasm, Volterra took the lead immediately. The rest of the field soon tracked over to follow and as Shane dropped his hands, the 18 runners were soon well spread out.

Despite showing great enthusiasm, and setting a strong gallop, Volterra was always racing in Shane’s hands. With Shane dictating, the field raced slightly towards the far side as they charged through the first half of the race. Always holding a length advantage, Volterra took the field down past 3f as they began to shuffle into position behind him. The pace had never let up and with the leader still travelling nicely, one or two began to work away to close the gap.

Shane had not moved and was waiting to throw down his final assault on the race. More challengers had moved through to press the lead and it was at the 2f pole where Shane got to work. Changing his hands a few time, Volterra was asked to quicken which he set about doing. He maintained his advantage, keeping the lead and starting the move through the gears.

As they headed towards the final furlong, the race was blown apart. Now Volterra hit his stride and suddenly kicked clear. With stamina proven over a mile, there would have to be a serious run from a rival to reel Volterra in. There was never a moment of doubt as Volterra just poured it on, going further and further clear. Shane could check the big screen to view any dangers and it must have been a good sight. With daylight to the rest, Shane was able to ease down and still secure the win by an impressive 3 1/4 lengths.

This was impressive in so many ways. It is always hard to cut out the running but more so in an ultra competitive handicap. To then quicken off a strong gallop and continue through the line showed all of Volterra’s class. Winning off 94 will likely see his handicap mark raised into the 100’s and so pattern company could well be in line next year. Volterra holds an entry in the Balmoral Handicap on Champions Day so this may well be an option next.

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