Sunday, May 4, 2003

SAGITTA GUINEAS FESTIVAL 2003
RACENEWS RACECOURSE SERVICE
NEWMARKET, SUNDAY, MAY 4



WINNING QUOTES RACE FOUR
SAGITTA 1,000 GUINEAS

“THIS IS A REALLY GOOD FILLY”

“Ever since I first rode her in February last year I have felt that she was a really good filly,” said Kieren Fallon after Russian Rhythm had given him his third and Sir Michael Stoute his second triumph in the race with her length and a half defeat of Six Perfections in the Sagitta 1,000 Guineas.

“I felt that this was an exceptional Guineas especially with the two French fillies in it, but even so I was sure she would run really well. I know that not everyone has been too happy with her work before the race but I have ridden her work twice over on this side of the town and have been very pleased with her.

“She was a really good filly last year and she has proved that again here.I was a bit lucky that the breaks came for her when I needed them, and I was lucky enough to be able to follow Intercontinental through when she went into the lead.

“It was not always easy to get a clear run, but she went through the gap when it came for her and she ran on really well. She is the best of the three 1,000 Guineas winners that I have ridden, but I couldn’t say now that she is the best horse I have ever been on.”

Russian Rhythm’s trainer Sir Michael Stoute spoke about the doubts which had preceded the filly’s participation. “She just had not been pleasing me in all her work,” he said.

“There just wasn’t the spark there that there had been last year, though she has been going better in the last week or so and Kieren was always much more confident about her than I was.

“She has always been a very good filly and I thought when she won the Lowther last year she was something exceptional. As far as her being beaten in the Cheveley Park is concerned, she was simply beaten by a faster filly on the day -- six furlongs was too short for her by then.

“I must thank everyone at the yard who is involved with her, including Jane Saunders who looks after her and Sally Eddery who rides her out a lot. It has been a real team effort, and though I never gave up hope with her I was never as confident as Kieren was.I have no idea where she will run next. We will have to take her home and talk about it.”

MORE QUOTES RACE FOUR
SAGITTA 1,000 GUINEAS

“WHAT A GOOD THING THAT WE RAN”

“Thank heavens we ran; Sir Michael kept saying that he wished the race was two weeks later, but how well it has all worked out,” said Chris Richardson of the Cheveley Park Stud, who bought Russian Rhythm for 440,000gns as a yearling at the 2001 Houghton Sales.

Mrs.Pat Thompson of Cheveley Park said: “it was lovely to be able to be so relaxed while I was watching the race. There had been so many doubts about her being able to run at all that we really could not have very high hopes. It had seemed possible that she might not be really ready until Ascot, so this is a lovely surprise.”


MORE WINNING QUOTES
SAGITTA 1000 GUINEAS

A NEAR FALL AND TEAM EFFORT LEAD TO SUCCESS

Kieren Fallon was winning his third Sagitta 1000 Guineas on Russian Rhythm, following on from Wince in 1999 and Sleepytime in 1997.

He said: “That was great. I was happy with her work twice - she is a very good filly.

“She picked up nicely for me. She fell down on her head leaving the stalls and I was lucky to stay on her.”

The winning trainer, Sir Michael Stoute, having his second Sagitta 1000 Guineas winner after Musical Bliss in 1989, said: “Kieren was a little bit more confident than I was. Fortunately, she has just come right on the day.

“She wasn’t really blooming and not eating as well as she can - she is usually a very good doer. It just got a little bit better lately with the advent of some good weather.

“I felt in her last bit of work that she showed a bit more spark than she had before. It is not easy with these Guineas fillies.

“She wanted further than six by the time of the Cheveley Park Stakes (last year). We had her at her peak at the end of July for the Princess Margaret and I always think it is hard to keep these fillies at a plateau fo a long period when they are two.

“We tried to be patient this year - not ask her to go too fast too soon but the team has been great - Jane (not James as earlier release) Saunders has done a great job with her - Sally Eddery has ridden her in a lot of her work, and there is Brian Groves and Jock Brown, the head man - a lot of care and attention has gone into the filly.

“I am delighted for Cheveley Park Stud.”


FOURTH RACE PLACED QUOTES
THE SAGITTA 1000 GUINEAS

IMPERFECT RESULT FOR FAVOURITE

French raider Six Perfections, who was sent off 7/4 favourite for the Sagitta 1000 Guineas, enjoyed a far from perfect passage in the classic under Thierry Thulliez and ran on to finish a length and a half second behind Russian Rhythm.

“It is hard to take,” said a disappointed Thulliez. “There were two horses in front of me and we galloped into one of their heels and reared up. I don’t know how I stayed in the saddle and the opening that should have been mine was taken by the winner.”

Six Perfections’ trainer Pascal Bary was also upset by events. “It’s very tough and hard to take,” said the Chantilly handler. “The French Guineas is next weekend so if we try again then it will probably be the Irish Guineas.”

Trainer Andre Fabre felt that the mile proved too far for third-placed Intercontinental.

“The distance was a fear for a long time and the last furlong proved a bit much,” said Fabre. “The distance was always going to be a concern, even at two.

“There are not too many options, the race in Deauville would be a possibility. I’d rather seven furlongs than six and don’t know about sending a three-year-old to the July Cup.”

Many of the Elite Racing Club’s 15,000 members cheered home fourth-placed Soviet Song and her trainer James Fanshawe said: “She ran very well and I think the winner was very good. In her defence, the stable hasn’t been firing yet this year and Oscar (Urbina) got off and said she just felt as if she was three weeks behind.

“We had the flu in the yard and although she wasn’t affected you never quite know.

“She’ll stay at a mile and if this race brings her on she can go anywhere.”



RECORD SUNDAY CROWD AT NEWMARKET

The crowd today of 17,089 adults, plus many children, was record for a Sunday at Newmarket and is up sharply from last year’s 14,594.

For the first time, the Sagitta Guineas Festival has had an attendance of over 40,000.

Lisa Hancock, Managing Director of Newmarket, commented: “It has been a fantastic day at the Home of Racing with a record Sunday crowd basking in glorious sunshine. The attendance, which was boosted by over 1,500 members of the Elite Racing Club, was up 17% on last year. To have passed 40,000 for the meeting is tremendous.”

There were 18,037 people at Newmarket yesterday and 5,290 on Friday, giving a total of 40,416 for the three days (2002 - 38,024 and 2001 - 36,967)



GOING NEWS AT 10 AM

Following another dry night the going for the third day of the Sagitta Guineas Festival remains

GOOD.

“We are forecast a bright sunny day with temperatures of 20 degrees (70F),” said clerk of the course Michael Prosser.

“The course will continue to dry out through the day and we could be looking at going on the fast side of good by the middle of the afternoon.”




GROUND NOW GOOD TO FIRM

Michael Prosser, Newmarket’s Clerk of the Course, changed the going to GOOD TO FIRM from Good after the first race.

TRAINERS’ SAGITTA GUINEAS RECORDS


Of the trainers with runners in the Sagitta 2000 Guineas and Sagitta 1000 Guineas, the following have won one or both races.

CLIVE BRITTAIN
2000: Mystiko (1991).

1000: Pebbles (1984), Sayyedati (1993) .

JOHN DUNLOP
1000: Quick As Lightning (1980), Salsabil (1990), Shadayid (1991).

ANDRE FABRE FR
2000: Zafonic (1993), Pennekamp (1995).

RICHARD HANNON
2000: Mon Fils (1973), Don’t Forget Me (1987), Tirol (1990).

BARRY HILLS
2000: Tap On Wood (1979)
1000: Enstone Spark (1978)

AIDAN O’BRIEN IRE
2000: King Of Kings (1998), Rock Of Gibraltar (2002)

SAEED BIN SUROOR
2000: Mark Of Esteem (1996), Island Sands (1999).

1000: Cape Verdi (1998), Kazzia (2002).

SIR MICHAEL STOUTE
2000: Shadeed (1985), Doyoun (1988), Entrepreneur (1997), King’s Best (2000), Golan (2001)
1000: Musical Bliss (1989), Russian Rhythm (2003).

DERMOT WELD IRE
2000: Refuse To Bend (2003)


JOCKEYS’ SAGITTA GUINEAS RECORDS


Of current jockeys, the following have won one or both classics, the Sagitta 1000 Guineas and the Sagitta 2000 Guineas.

FRANKIE DETTORI
2000: Mark Of Esteem (1996), Island Sands (1999)
1000: Cape Verdi (1998), Kazzia (2002)

PAT EDDERY
2000: Lomond (1983), El Gran Senor (1984), Zafonic (1993).

1000: Bosra Sham (1996).

KIEREN FALLON
2000: King’s Best (2000), Golan (2001)
1000: Sleepytime (1997), Wince (1999), Russian Rhythm (2003) .

RICHARD HILLS
1000: Harayir (1995), Lahan (2000).

THIERRY JARNET
2000: Pennekamp (1995)

MICK KINANE
2000: Tirol (1990), Entrepreneur (1997), King Of Kings (1998).

JOHNNY MURTAGH
2000: Rock Of Gibraltar (2002)

MICHAEL ROBERTS
2000: Mystiko (1991).

PHILIP ROBINSON
1000: Pebbles (1984), Ameerat (2001).

PAT SMULLEN
2000: Refuse To Bend (2003).

THE SAGITTA 1000 GUINEAS - Facts and Figures

* The inaugural running of the 1000 Guineas, a race for three-year-old fillies, took place in 1814. It was won by the 11/5 favourite Charlotte, who beat four rivals. The connections of Charlotte - trainer T Perren, owner Christopher Wilson and jockey Bill Clift - were also responsible for Wizard, the first 2000 Guineas winner in 1809.

* Four fillies have completed the 1000 Guineas/2000 Guineas double. The last was Sceptre in 1902, who was amazingly also successful in the Oaks and St Leger. The other fillies to win both Newmarket classics are Crucifix (1840), Formosa (1868) and Pilgrimage (1878).

* In 1825, the Duke of Grafton’s Tontine was the sole participant. At the other end of the spectrum, the largest field was 29 in 1926, when Pillion was successful at 25/1.

* Humble Duty recorded the greatest winning margin since 1900 when scoring by seven lengths in 1970 under Lester Piggott. During the same period six winners have scraped home by the narrowest of margins, a short-head, namely Atmah (1911), Fair Isle (1930), Highclere (1974), Nocturnal Spree (1975), Oh So Sharp (1985) and Las Meninas (1994).

* The longest-priced winner was Lord Derby’s Ferry, returned at 50/1 in 1918. The shortest-priced was Crucifix, whose odds were 1/10 when taking the 1840 renewal.

* A total of 77 of the 189 runnings have been won by either the favourite or a joint-favourite. This works out as just over four in every 10 runnings being won by a favourite. The favourite has only twice been out of the first four home since 1994.

* Fittingly, given the current sponsor, the race was won in 1860 by a filly called Sagitta, by Longbow.

* One of the race’s true heroines was Tagalie, successful in 1912, who went on to become the only winner to go on and land the Derby.

* A total of 46 fillies have won both the 1000 Guineas and Oaks. Neva was the first in 1817 and Kazzia the latest last season.

* Five winners since 1900 have been trained in Ireland - 1908 Rhodora (trained by James Allen), 1964 Pourparler (Paddy Prendergast), 1966 Glad Rags (Vincent O’Brien), 1975 Nocturnal Spree (Stuart Murless) and 1994 Las Meninas (Tommy Stack).

* There have been 14 French-trained winners since 1900 - 1929 Taj Mah (trained by Juan Torterolo), 1932 Kandy (Frank Carter), 1935 Mesa (P Corbiere), 1947 Imprudence (Jacques Lieux), 1950 Camaree (A Lieux), 1957 Rose Royale (Alec Head), 1958 Bella Paola (Francois Mathet), 1960 Never Too Late (Etienne Pollet), 1963 Hula Dancer (Etienne Pollet), 1976 Flying Water (Angel Penna), 1983 Ma Biche (Criquette Head), 1987 Miesque (Francois Boutin), 1988 Ravinella (Criquette Head) and 1992 Hatoof (Criquette Head).

* Henry Cecil is the most successful current trainer with six wins. Kieren Fallon has now won three 1000 Guineas after Russian Rhythm’s success in 2003. Philip Robinson, Richard Hills, Frankie Dettori have all had a pair of wins.

* Lahan recorded a new record time for the race in 2000 when scoring in 1m 36.38s, shaving 0.43s off the previous best set by Las Meninas in 1994.

CHAMPION TWO-YEAR-OLD FILLIES IN THE SAGITTA 1000 GUINEAS

Six Perfections tried to become the fourth official champion two-year-old filly to win the following year's Sagitta 1000 Guineas and the first since Shadayid completed the double in 1989 and 1990.

Queen’s Logic had been due to run in last year’s Sagitta 1000 Guineas but injury prevented her from doing so.

Below are listed the champion two-year-old fillies and their Guineas positions since the European Free Handicap was first published in 1978.

Year Champion Juvenile Rating Sagitta 1000 Guineas Position

2002 Six Perfections 121 2nd
2001 Queen's Logic 122 NR
2000 Superstar Leo 120 NR
1999 Lady Of Chad 113 NR
1998 Bint Allayl 116 NR
1997 Embassy 118 NR
1996 Pas De Reponse 116 4th (to Sleepytime)
1995 Blue Duster 119 NR
1994 Gay Gallanta 116 7th (to Harayir)
1993 Lemon Souffle 118 NR
1992 Lyric Fantasy 122 6th (to Sayyedati)
1991 Marling 118 2nd (to Hatoof)
1990 SHADAYID 120 WON
1989 Negligent 118 3rd (to Salsabil)
1988 Tersa 118 NR
Tessla 118 NR
1987 RAVINELLA 125 WON
1986 Forest Flower 125 NR
1985 Baiser Vole 120 NR
1984 Triptych 122 7th (to Oh So Sharp)
1983 Almeira 120 NR
1982 MA BICHE 121 WON
1981 Play It Safe 119 4th (to On The House)
Circus Ring 119 NR
Height Of Fashion 119 NR
1980 Tolmi 122 2nd (to Fairy Footsteps)
Marwell 122 4th
1979 Mrs Penny 121 3rd (to Quick As Lightning)
Princesse Lida 121 NR
1978 Sigy 129 NR


FIRST WIN



Christophe Soumillon, rider of Self Evident in the Mail On Sunday / Tote Handicap, was having his first winner at Newmarket - indeed his first British victory.

He said: “Today it is my first win in England so it is a good day.

“My filly (Intercontinental in the Sagitta 1000 Guineas) is in good form. If my boss comes here with a filly you know you have a good chance. There is another good French filly, Six Perfections. We will see it how it goes in the race.”

Soumillon was banned for two days for his use of the whip on Self Evident - the stewards deemed he used it too frequently and out of stride pattern.

R L DAVISON PRETTY POLLY STAKES
MORE WIN QUOTES


DETTORI PLEASED WITH HI DUBAI


Frankie Dettori said: “We’ve always thought a lot of this filly - she is a full sister to Fantastic Light. Hi Dubai won the fillies trial in Dubai but just lacks a little bit of experience. I wanted to see that she really stays.

“When I went to the front, she just waited for the others to chase her up but she fought really well and should improve a lot. It is such a wonderful big crowd here at Newmarket that it was just a bit intimidating when she got to the front but she came through all right.

“With a couple of nice works, we should be heading to the Oaks at Epsom.”

Trainer Saeed bin Suroor commented: “She is an Oaks filly now - we will decide whether to give her another run or a work-out before the big race - she needed this race.”


FIRST RACE QUOTES
THE CURTIS MEDICAL RATED STAKES

CAPRICHO WINS OPENER IN STEWARDS’ ROOM

There was drama in the first race when The Tatling, who finished a short-head in front of Capricho, was demoted from first place to second after the stewards deemed careless interference had taken place between the pair in the final furlong.

Frankie Dettori, rider of The Tatling, was given a one-day ban on Tuesday, May 13.

Immediately after the race, Roger Kilby, the senior member of Capricho’s owners Canisbay Bloodstock, reported Richard Quinn as being “very hopeful” of getting the race, a view that was reinforced when Quinn objected to the winner.

“The trouble with him is that he likes to come late and being drawn where he was in stall two made that difficult for him. If he had been drawn higher he would have been able to get a clearer run,” said Kilby.

“We bought him in the hope that he might be up to winning in Listed company but he hasn’t proved quite that good. I expect that we shall enter him in the Wokingham again and see if he can do what he did last year.

“The trouble is that the Newmarket stewards and Mr Akehurst don’t seem to get on terribly well,” Kilby added, looking back to the Bunbury Cup on the July Course last summer when Capricho finished first but had run without his weight cloth and was inevitably disqualified.

Derek Pearson, who owns the Milton Bradley-trained The Tatling in partnership with Alan Perry, had feared his horse might lose the race but said: “He’s been fantastic since we claimed him from Dandy Nicholls. He needs to miss the break so it worked well today.”

WINNING QUOTES RACE TWO
MAIL ON SUNDAY/TOTE MILE HANDICAP

“NOW WE HAVE TO DO IT AGAIN”

Christophe Soumillon, who is to ride Intercontinental in the Sagitta 1,000 Guineas later this afternoon, rehearsed in ideal style when he and Self Evident got the better of hot favourite Arakan in the Mail on Sunday/Tote Mile Handicap.

“He had one ride here yesterday and the idea was for him to have as much experience of the course before the Guineas,” said Teddy Beckett, racing manager to the winner’s owner-breeder Prince Khalid Abdullah.

This was Soumillon’s first success in England and in landing it he took the scalp of none other than the champion jockey Kieren Fallon.

“Now we have to go and beat the Niarchos team again,” said Beckett with reference to the fact that Intercontinental, likewise owned and bred by Prince Khalid, takes on favourite Six Perfections who, like Arakan, races for the Niarchos family, in the Guineas.

The difference in the personnel is that Intercontinental is trained by Andre Fabre, while Self Evident is with Amanda Perrett, who was following up her double on the Rowley Mile yesterday.

Beckett also explained how Richard Hughes did not ride the winner, even though he is Prince Khalid’s retained jockey. “This would be the only ride he would have had for us here as he is retained only for our horses trained in Britain, apart from those with Henry Cecil, and he is not directly involved with those outside this country. We have two runners at Salisbury so Richard has gone there.

“It was good to see the race working out so well with the four top weights filling the first four places, but I fear that the handicapper may take notice of all that and his days at that level may be numbered. It looks as if we shall have to think about Listed level.”


THIRD RACE WINNING QUOTES
THE R.L. DAVISON PRETTY POLLY STAKES (LISTED)

GODOLPHIN ON HI

Hi Dubai, a full-sister to Fantastic Light, gave the Godolphin team its first British winner of 2003 and after winning the Listed R L Davison Pretty Polly Stakes is now pencilled in for a tilt at the Vodafone Oaks.

“It’s our 23rd winner this year but it’s always a relief to have our first winner here in England and we like to get it at Newmarket rather than waiting for York,” said Simon Crisford, Godolphin’s racing manager.

“Frankie said she was still green and the more racing she has the better she will be. We’d like to give her another run before the Oaks but if not we’ll give her a good work out.

“We might run Echoes Of Eternity in the Musidora at York and Frankie is banned so Jamie Spencer will ride then we also have the two fillies in the Guineas - we’ll see how they get on but potentially there’s four fillies in the equation”

Looking back to yesterday’s Sagitta 2000 Guineas runners, Lateen Sails and Songlark, Crisford added: “We’re going to give Lateen Sails a bit of a break and start again with him. He is a good horse, we know that, and he’ll probably come back in a conditions race somewhere during the summer.

“Songlark ran well but probably wants further.”

Hi Dubai’s jockey Frankie Dettori added: “She’s still green but has got a good physique and is very strong so we could have fun with her. It was quite intimidating for her to have her second run in front of such a big crowd but she did well.”

PLACED QUOTES RACE THREE
RL DAVISON PRETTY POLLY STAKES


MAYBE CHANTILLY FOR RANSOM

“She has run very well and I am delighted with her,” said Ed Dunlop after Hold To Ransom had gone down by a length to Hi Dubai in the Pretty Polly.

But though the winner is due to go for the Vodafone Oaks, Hold To Ransom will not follow that route and the Prix de Diane at Chantilly is a more likely target.

“She stayed that trip well but she won’t get any further,” Dunlop elaborated.

“We were on a big finding out mission with her here and we have found out quite a lot; that was very encouraging. The winner was impressive.”

“Bruce Raymond, racing manager to the filly’s owner Khalid BuHaleeba, endorsed what Dunlop said.

“This is as far as she wants to go,” he said. “She kept battling away but the winner saw the trip out that bit better than she did and you always felt that Frankie (Dettori on the winner) had that bit in hand.

“She would have been suited by a stronger gallop, but that was a very decent run and we shall certainly look at the French Oaks.”


FIFTH RACE WINNING QUOTES
MAY CLASSIFIED STAKES

EXCELLENTO EFFORT FROM LODER CHARGE

The David Loder-trained Excellento could appear at Royal Ascot after winning the May Classified Stakes by a length and a half from 50/1 chance Aventura.

“He’s quite a deceptive horse, he always does just enough,” said Loder. “He’s going the right way and we’ll see how far he can go.

“He’s improving, tough and loves firm ground - he wouldn’t mind it even faster. He’s certainly improved since he won at Ripon last time.

“Obviously at this time of year one is thinking of Royal Ascot but I’ll need to go back home and think about which pigeon hole he fits into. It’s been great for the yard to have a few older horses this season.”


WINNING QUOTES RACE SIX
MARCH HANDICAP

MAYBE AN EBOR HORSE

“He is a good horse but he is still very inexperienced and he had run only four times in his life before today,” said David Elsworth after Saint Alebe had taken the mile and a half handicap from 20-1 Mamcazma.

“The trouble was that we could never get his ground and his distance together last year; he really likes a bit of cut, though he managed this going alright.

“Last year we could never run him beyond a mile and a quarter and he needed further than that. I think he could become an Ebor horse one day, though we shall have to see what the handicapper does with him.

“I bought him for only 8.000gns as a yearling; he comes from the same family as Soba and was bred by Mrs Hills, who used to race that filly.

“Now I must go and watch the next race at Salisbury, as I think I am going
to win that.” Which he did with Gold Medallist.

SEVENTH RACE QUOTES
HASTINGS MAIDEN STAKES

LAIDLOW COMPLETES GREAT DAY FOR STOUTE

Russian Rhythm’s trainer Sir Michael Stoute rounded off an great day when the debutant Laidlow beat home Time Ahead in the concluding Hastings Maiden Stakes. The 1/2 favourite Act Of Duty disappointed when finishing sixth.

Both Russian Rhythm and Laidlow are looked after by the same lass, Jane Saunders - whose name inadvertently appeared as James in the racecard.

“It is great for Jane and despite what the racecard said she has not had a sex change operation this morning,” joked Stoute.

“Laidlow did alright and the favourite didn’t run his race, which helped him.

“John Warren bought him as a yearling and he just had sore shins last year, which is why he didn’t run.”


FIRST RACE RESULT

2.10pm CURTIS MEDICAL RATED STAKES

Class B, Handicap, £30,000 guaranteed, for 4yo+ rated 0-110. Highest weight 9st 7lb; minimum weight 8st 7lb. Penalties: after April 26, a winner 3lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £17,400; 2nd: £6,600; 3rd: £3,300; 4th: £1,500; 5th: £750; 6th: £450

*1) CAPRICHO (Canisbay Bloodstock Ltd) John Akehurst 6-8-12 Richard Quinn [2] 15/2
*2) THE TATLING (Dab Hand Racing) Milton Bradley 6-8-11 Frankie Dettori [9] 13/2
3) ROYAL MILLENNIUM (Jackie & George Smith) Mick Channon 5-8-13 Jamie Spencer [17] 7/1
4) BORDER SUBJECT (Mr & Mrs P Orton and Beckhampton Stables) Roger Charlton 6-9-00 Steve Drowne [11] 6/1
5) ATTACHE (John Good) Michael Jarvis 5-8-12 Philip Robinson [7] 9/2F
6) POMFRET LAD (Four Seasons Racing Ltd) Peter Makin 5-9-02 Seb Sanders [1]
7) PRINCE CYRANO (Rita Brown & Partner) Willie Musson 4-8-07 Willie Supple [4]
8) PERUVIAN CHIEF (M C S D Racing Ltd) Nick Littmoden v6-8-09 Ian Mongan [13]
9) IRONY (John Nicholls Ltd/Mobley Homes) Andrew Balding 4-8-07 Martin Dwyer [10]
10) CEEPIO (Mrs C Stephens) Terry Mills 5-8-03 Robert Miles (7) [6]
11) ONLYTIME WILL TELL (J Hair & D Faulkner) David Nicholls 5-8-07 Adrian Nicholls [16]
12) WATCHING (M Leatham, G Leatham, R Leatham) David Nicholls p6-8-08 Kieren Fallon [3]
13) TEDBURROW (Irene & Peter Davies) Eric Alston 11-9-07 Dean McKeown [5]
14) ABBAJABBA (North Cheshire Trading & Storage Ltd) Chris Fairhurst 7-8-07 Joe Fanning [12]
15) MONKSTON POINT (Derrick Broomfield) David Arbuthnot v7-9-00 Eddie Ahern [15]
16) TOM TUN (Mrs O Tunstall) James Given 8-8-12 Michael Fenton [14]

* After stewards enquiry, the first two placings were reversed

16 ran Non-Runner: Danger Over (Ground)
Dist: sh, sh, nk, 5, 2, nk, 1 1/4, 2, nk, 2 1/2, nk, nk, 1 3/4, 1/2, 1 1/2
Time: 1m 11.80s
Breeder: Rexel Armstrong
Breeding: gr g Lake Coniston (IRE) - Star Spectacle (Spectacular Bid (USA))
Tote: Win: £9.30 Places: £2.50; £1.80; £2.30; £2.20 Exacta: £68.80

Winning Trainer: Akehurst, Jonathan (John) Born: 28/04/61 Based: South Hatch Stables, Epsom Former Career: Amateur jockey. Worked for Stan Mellor and Fulke Walwyn. Son of former trainer Reg Akehurst Date of First Licence: June 1 1990 Horses In Training (2002-2003): 28; 26 Wins 2001-2002: 13; 14 Big Race Wins: Wokingham Stakes (2002 Capricho)

Winning jockey:-Name: Quinn, Thomas Richard. Born: Stirling, Scotland, 2/12/61 Apprenticeship: With Paul Cole, First winner: Bolivar Baby (Kempton, October 21, 1981) Classic wins: (3) Rothmans Royals St Leger (1990 Snurge, 2000 Millenary), Vodafone Oaks (2000 Love Divine) Other major wins include: Lockinge Stakes (1988 Broken Hearted, 1996 Soviet Line), Fillies Mile’ (1991 Culture Vulture), Irish St Leger (1990 Ibn Bey, 1995 Strategic Choice), Irish Oaks (1990 Knight's Baroness), Yorkshire Oaks (1987 Bint Pasha), Cheveley Park Stakes (1989 Pass The Peace, 1999 Seazun); Dewhurst Stakes (1990 Generous); Poule d’Essai des Poulains (1992 Culture Vulture), Prix Royal Oak (1992 Assessor), Derby Italiano (1987 Zaizoom, 1994 Time Star); Rothmans International (1992 Snurge), Brigadier Gerard Stakes (2000 Shiva), Grand Prix de Paris (2000 Beat Hollow), Lupe Stakes (2000 Love Divine), Fred Darling Stakes (2001 Rolly Polly) , Cherry Hinton Stakes (2000 Dora Carrington,2002Spinola), Betfair.com Molecomb Stakes (1998 Inya Lake), Hungerford Stakes (2002 Reel Buddy) Wins 1984-2002: 62,47,69,55,46,63,90,99,117,123,115,111,149,74,108,151,140,116,104 Wins This Season: 23 Other details: Champion European apprentice 1983, Champion British apprentice 1984, retained rider to Henry Cecil from 2000


SECOND RACE RESULT
2.40pm MAIL ON SUNDAY/TOTE MILE HANDICAP (QUALIFIER)

Class C, £20,000 added, for 3yo rated 0-90. Minimum weight 7st 12lb Penalties: after April 26, a winner 5lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £14,196; 2nd: £4,638; 3rd: £2,184; 4th: £1,092

1) SELF EVIDENT (Khalid Abdulla) Amanda Perrett 3-9-06 Christophe Soumillon [10] 10/1
2) ARAKAN (Niarchos Family) Sir Michael Stoute 3-9-07 Kieren Fallon [16] 11/10F
3) HOWLE HILL (J Brown, R Benton, R Dervereux, R Lucas) Alan King 3-9-07 Steve Drowne [17] 25/1
4) RIFLEMAN (S Adamson) Anne Duffield 3-9-03 George Duffield [6] 16/1
5) LITTLE GOOD BAY (Lady Bamford) John Gosden 3-9-03 Jimmy Fortune [7]
6) DOCKLANDS MAXIMUS (Mrs D Curran) Nick Littmoden 3-9-00 Ian Mongan [2]
7) AUNT RITA (Stamford Bridge Partnership) Michael Bell 3-9-03 Darryll Holland [5]
7) HOH INVESTOR (David Allport & Bob Michaelson) Andrew Balding 3-8-12 Martin Dwyer [8]
9) CELESTIA (Plantation Stud) John Dunlop 3-8-12 Richard Quinn [14]
10) LEO BOY (Wafic Said) John Dunlop 3-8-10 Pat Eddery [15]
11) DUBAI DREAMS (Apb Racing) Mark Polglase 3-8-07 Eddie Ahern [18]
12) JORDANS ELECT (Ian Crawford) Ian Semple 3-8-07 Frankie Dettori [4]
13) BACKWELL (Nicholas Baker) Michael Jarvis 3-9-01 Philip Robinson [3]
14) DANCINGINTHESTREET (The 4th Middleham Partnership) James Given 3-9-03 Michael Fenton [19]
15) ONCE SEEN (Jock Strap Partners) Ralph Beckett 3-8-07 Seb Sanders [11]
16) MADAMOISELLE JONES (Horses Away Racinjg Club) Stuart Howe 3-7-12 Gary Bardwell [9]
17) UNICORN REWARD (Mrs A Kane & Mrs M Crane) Richard Hannon 3-8-07 Richard Smith [20]
18) DEVIL'S TEARDROP (Cosgrove International) David Cosgrove 3-7-12 Sam Hitchcott (5) [1]
19) SURDOUE (Les Amis Partnership) George Margarson 3-8-12 Jamie Spencer [13]
20) COMPOS MENTIS (Raymond Tooth) Dave Morris 3-8-07 Neil Callan [12]

20 ran
Dist: 1/2, 1, 2 1/2, 1 1/4, nk, sh, 2, 3 1/2, 1 1/4, 1 1/2, 1/2, 2, 3, 1/2, 2, 1/2, 1 3/4, 11, 2 1/2
Time: 1m 40.27s
Breeder: Juddmonte Farms Inc Breeding: b/br c Known Fact (USA) - Palisade (USA) (Gone West (USA))
Tote: Win: £12.70 Places: £2.60; £1.20; £5.70; £3.50 Exacta: £32.60

Winning Trainer:- Name: Perrett, Amanda Born: December 31, 1969 Married: July 2, 1995 Trains at: Coombelands Stables, Pulborough, West Sussex Riding Career: 54 wins under Rules, 40 point-to-point winners First Trainer’s Licence: 1996 First Group 1 Win: Prix du Moulin (2000 Indian Lodge) Other Big Race Wins: Prix de la Foret (2000 Indian Lodge); Oak Tree Stakes (2002 Desert Alchemy); Celebration Mile (2002 Tillerman) Winners 1996-02: 1; 8; 11; 18; 27; 37; 60 Horses in Training 2001-03: 99; 104; 100 Wins This Season: 13

Winning jockey:-Name: Soumillon, Christophe Born: June 4, 1981 Background: A Belgian-born former champion apprentice of France in 1999, having ridden his first winner two years’ earlier. Son of a retired jump jockey, Soumillon was apprenticed to Cedric Boutin. He attended the famous Moulin a Vent school (French apprentice academy) at Chantilly, where so many top jockeys began their profession. Appointed as second jockey to Andre Fabre, with Olivier Peslier as the number one, in 1999. Gained a five-timer at Saint-Cloud on May 1, 2000. Became retained jockey for the Aga Khan in France in October, 2001, succeeding Gerald Mosse who left the position to concentrate on riding in Hong Kong. This new position meant that he became first jockey to trainer Alain de Royer-Dupre, the Aga Khan’s trainer in France. Major wins include: French 2,000 Guineas (2001 Vahorimix), French Derby (2001 Anabaa Blue), Prix de Fontainebleau (2000 Berine’s Son), Prix du Muguet (2000 Dansili), Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud (2001 Mirio), Prix de l’Opera (2001 Terre A Terre), Grand Prix de Paris (2002 Khalkevi), Prix de la Nonette (2002 Pearly Shells), Prix Vermeille (2002 Pearly Shells), Dubai Duty Free (2002 Terre A Terre) First British win for Christophe Soumillon


THIRD RACE RESULT
3.15pm R L DAVISON PRETTY POLLY STAKES

Class A, Listed Race £32,000 guaranteed, for 3yo fillies which have not won a Group 1 or Group 2 race. Weights: 8st 8lb.Penalties: a winner of a Class B race of 7f or more 3lb; of a Listed race of 7f or more 5lb; of a Group Three race of 7f or more 7lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £18,560; 2nd: £7,040; 3rd: £3,520; 4th: £1,600; 5th: £800; 6th: £480

1) HI DUBAI (Godolphin) Saeed bin Suroor 3-8-08 Frankie Dettori [1] 2/1F
2) HOLD TO RANSOM (Khalid Buhaleeba) Ed Dunlop 3-8-08 Kieren Fallon [5] 11/2
3) OBLIGE (Kirsten Rausing) Andrew Balding 3-8-08 Martin Dwyer [6] 3/1
4) HEARTS 'N MINDS (Annie Cyzer) Charles Cyzer 3-8-08 Darryll Holland [3]
5) AL IHTITHAR (Hamdan Al Maktoum) Barry Hills 3-8-08 Willie Supple [8]
6) SURVAL (Bob Lanigan) Luca Cumani 3-8-08 Jamie Spencer [7]
7) GOODNESS GRACIOUS (Wafic Said) John Dunlop 3-8-08 Pat Eddery [2]
8) ESTIMATION (Bottisham Heath Stud) Robert Cowell 3-8-08 Brett Doyle [4]

8 ran
Dist: 1, 3 1/2, hd, 2, 2, 3, 10
Time: 2m 07.68s
Breeder: Gainsborough Stud Management Breeding: ch f Rahy (USA) - Jood (USA) (Nijinsky (CAN))
Tote: Win: £2.50 Places: £1.50; £1.10; £1.50 Exacta: £12.20

Winning trainer:-Name: bin Suroor, Saeed Trains at Newmarket for Godolphin, the racing entity of Sheikh Mohammed, whose horses winter in Dubai and race worldwide.British Classic wins: (10) Sagitta 2000 Guineas (1996 Mark of Esteem, 1999 Island Sands), Sagitta 1000 Guineas (1998 Cape Verdi, 2002 Kazzia), Vodafone Oaks (1995 Moonshell; 2002 Kazzia); Vodafone Derby (1995 Lammtarra); Rothmans Royals St Leger (1995 Classic Cliche; 1998 Nedawi; 1999 Mutafaweq) Other major wins include: Irish Derby (1994 Balanchine), Irish 2000 Guineas (2000 Bachir), Irish Champion Stakes (1994 Cezanne; 1998 Swain, 2001 Fantastic Light, 2002 Grandera), Irish St Leger (1998 & 1999 Kayf Tara), French 2000 Guineas (1995 Vettori; 2000 Bachir; 2001 Noverre); Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (1995 Lammtarra, 2001 Sakhee); Prix d’Ispahan (1996 Halling), Eclipse (1995,1996 Halling; 1998 Daylami); Juddmonte International Stakes (1995 Halling), Ascot Gold Cup (1996 Classic Cliche; 1998 Kayf Tara, 2000 Kayf Tara), King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (1995 Lammtarra; 1997 & 1998 Swain, 1999 Daylami), Nunthorpe Stakes (1995 So Factual), Derby Italiano (1998 Central Park), Lockinge Stakes (1998 Cape Cross; 2000 Aljabr), Prix Jean Prat (1998 Almutawakel), Prix de la Salamandre (1998 Aljabr), Man O’ War Stakes (1998 Daylami; 2000 Fantastic Light), Lockinge Stakes (1998 Cape Cross, 1999 Fly To The Stars, 2000 Alajabr), Great Voltigeur Stakes (1998 Sea Wave), Vodafone Coronation Cup (1999 Daylami, 2001 Mutafaweq), Sussex Stakes (1999 Aljabr) Stanley Leisure Sprint Cup (1999 Diktat), Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (1996 Mark Of Esteem, 1999 Dubai Millennium, 2001 Summoner), Prix Jacques le Marois (1999 Dubai Millennium, 2000 Muhtathir), Prince of Wales’s Stakes (1998 Faithful Son, 2000 Dubai Millennium, 2001 Fantastic Light, 2002 Grandera), Canadian International Stakes (2000 Mutafaweq), JP Morgan Private Bank Goodwood Cup (1999 Kayf Tara), Grosser Preis Von Baden (2002 Marienbard) Wins in a season (1995-2002) 14:48:41:38:41:17:24:21 Wins this season: 1 Other details: Champion trainer 1996;1999 Completed full set of classic wins following Cape Verdi’s victory in the Sagitta 1000 Guineas.

Winning jockey:-Name: Dettori, Lanfranco.Born: 15/12/70 in Milan, ItalyFirst winner: Rif (Turin, Italy, November 16, 1986), First British winner: Lizzy Hare (Goodwood June 9, 1987) Classic wins; (9) Vodafone Oaks (1994 Balanchine, 1995 Moonshell, 2002 Kazzia); Rothmans Royals St Leger (1995 Classic Cliche, 1996 Shantou), Sagitta 2000 Guineas (1996 Mark of Esteem, 1999 Island Sands), Sagitta 1000 Guineas (1998 Cape Verdi, 2002 Kazzia) Other major wins include: King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (1995 Lammtarra, 1998 Swain, 1999 Daylami), Ascot Gold Cup (1992, 1993 Drum Taps, 1998 Kayf Tara), St James’s Palace Stakes (1997 Starborough), Vodafone Coronation Cup (1996 Swain, 1997 Singspiel, 1999 Daylami, 2001 Mutafaweq), Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (1995 Lammtarra), Breeders’ Cup Mile (1994 Barathea), Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (1990 Markofdistinction; 1996 Mark of Esteem, 1999 Dubai Millennium), Juddmonte International (1996 Halling, 1997 Singspiel), Coral-Eclipse Stakes (1998 Daylami),Yorkshire Oaks (1994 Only Royale), Middle Park Stakes (1996 Bahamian Bounty), Fillies’ Mile (1990 Shamshir, 1999 Teggiano, 2000 Crystal Music), Nunthorpe Stakes (1993 Lochsong, 1995 So Factual, 1998 Lochangel), Sussex Stakes (1991 Second Set, 1999 Aljabr); Haydock Sprint Cup (1999 Diktat); Breeders’ Cup Turf (1999 Daylami), Japan Cup (1996 Singspiel); Dubai World Cup (2000 Dubai Millennium); Poule d’Essai des Poulains (1995 Vettori; 2000 Bachir, 2001 Noverre), Irish Derby (1994 Balanchine), Irish 2000 Guineas (2000 Bachir), Prix du Jockey-Club (1992 Polytain), Prix Jean Prat (1998 Almutawakel), Prix Jacques le Marois (1999 Dubai Millennium, 2000 Muhtathir), Prix de la Salamandre (1998 Aljabr); Prix Maurice de Gheest (1999 Diktat); Irish Champion Stakes (1998 Swain, 1999 Daylami, 2001 Fantastic Light, 2002 Grandera); Irish St Leger (1999 Kayf Tara); Deutsches Derby (1991 Temporal), Predominate Stakes (2000 Roscius), Duke of York Stakes (2000 Lend A Hand), Yorkshire Cup (2000 Kayf Tara), Lockinge Stakes (2000 Aljabr), Royal Lodge Stakes (2000 Atlantis Prince), Cheveley Park Stakes (2000 Regal Rose), Canadian International Stakes (2000 Mutafaweq), Sagaro Stakes (2002 Give Notice), Prince of Wales’s Stakes (2001 Fantastic Light, 2002 Grandera), JP Morgan Private Bank Goodwood Cup (1999 Kayf Tara), Grosser Preis Von Baden (2002 Marienbard), Gimcrack Stakes (2002 Country Reel), Winter Hill Stakes (2002 Naheef) Wins in a season (1987-2002): 8,22,75, 141,94,101,149,233*,217*,123,176,132,132,47,94,69 *Champion jockey Wins This Season: 9



FOURTH RACE RESULT
3.55pm SAGITTA 1000 GUINEAS

Class A, Group One, Showcase Race, £320,000 guaranteed, for 3yo fillies. Weights: 9st. Penalty Values: 1st: £185,600; 2nd: £70,400; 3rd: £35,200; 4th: £16,000; 5th: £8,000; 6th: £4,800

1) RUSSIAN RHYTHM (Cheveley Park Stud) Sir Michael Stoute 3-9-00 Kieren Fallon [2] 12/1
2) SIX PERFECTIONS (Niarchos Family) Pascal Bary FR 3-9-00 Thierry Thulliez [1] 7/4F
3) INTERCONTINENTAL (Khalid Abdulla) Andre Fabre FR 3-9-00 Christophe Soumillon [9] 5/1
4) SOVIET SONG (Elite Racing Club) James Fanshawe 3-9-00 Oscar Urbina [11]
5) HANAMI (G B Partnership) James Toller 3-9-00 Darryll Holland [4]
6) CASUAL LOOK (William Farish III) Andrew Balding 3-9-00 Martin Dwyer [5]
7) SUMMITVILLE (Mountain High Partnership) James Given 3-9-00 Michael Fenton [13]
8) YESTERDAY (Sue Magnier & Roisin Henry) Aidan O'Brien IRE 3-9-00 Michael Kinane [21]
9) PRESTO VENTO (Ian Wright, Mrs D M Wright, Major Tony Everett) Richard Hannon 3-9-00 Pat Eddery [20]
10) DUTY PAID (Jeff Smith) David Elsworth 3-9-00 Richard Quinn [15]
11) LOOK HERE'S CAROL (S L Edwards) Bryan McMahon 3-9-00 Graham Gibbons [3]
12) GONFILIA (Godolphin) Saeed bin Suroor 3-9-00 Jamie Spencer [18]
13) SPINOLA (The Winning Set) Peter Harris 3-9-00 Eddie Ahern [7]
14) MEZZO SOPRANO (Godolphin) Saeed bin Suroor 3-9-00 Frankie Dettori [19]
15) L'ANCRESSE (Michael Tabor & Sue Magnier) Aidan O'Brien IRE 3-9-00 Kevin Darley [17]
16) TANTE ROSE (Wafic Said) Barry Hills 3-9-00 Michael Hills [12]
17) WIMPLE (Saeed Manana) Clive Brittain 3-9-00 Philip Robinson [16]
18) HECTOR'S GIRL (N Ahamad & Pierpont Scott) Sir Michael Stoute 3-9-00 Jimmy Fortune [8]
19) KHULOOD (Hamdan Al Maktoum) John Dunlop 3-9-00 Willie Supple [14]

19 ran Non-Runners: Lady Mytton (Vet’s Certificate), Flashing Blade (Vet’s Certificate)
Dist: 1 1/2, 1 1/4, 1 1/2, nk, hd, 1 1/4, 1, nk, 2, 5, 1/2, 5, hd, 3/4, 1 1/4, 7, 1/2, 3 1/2
Time: 1m 38.43s
Breeder: Brushwood Stable Breeding: ch f Kingmambo (USA) - Balistroika (USA) (Nijinsky (CAN))
Tote: Win: £14.00 Places: £4.10; £1.60; £2.80 Exacta: £52.70

Winning trainer:-Name: Stoute, Sir Michael Ronald Date of birth:22/10/45 Date of first licence: 1972 Previous Occupation: Served with Pat Rohan, Doug Smith and Tom Jones. Classic wins: (11) Sagitta 1000 Guineas (1989 Musical Bliss, 2003 Russian Rhythm), Sagitta 2000 Guineas (1985 Shadeed, 1988 Doyoun, 1997 Entrepreneur, 2000 King’s Best, 2001 Golan), Vodafone Derby (1981 Shergar, 1986 Shahrastani), Vodafone Oaks (1978 Fair Salinia, 1987 Unite) Other big race wins: Irish 2,000 Guineas (1989 Shaadi), Irish 1,000 Guineas (1986 Sonic Lady), Irish Derby (1983 Shareef Dancer, 1986 Sharatani), Irish Oaks (1978 Fair Salinia, 1986 Colorspin, 1987 Unite, 1988 Melodist, 1995 Pure Grain, 2000 Petrushka), Italian Oaks (1988 Melodist, 1986 Ivor’s Image), Vodafone Coronation Cup (1992 Saddler’s Hall, 1993 Opera House, 1997 Singspiel, 2000 Daliapour), Dubai World Cup (Singspiel 1997), Coral-Eclipse (1993 Opera House; 1994 Ezzoud;1997 Pilsudski, 2001 Medicean), Japan Cup (1996 Singspiel, 1997 Pilsudski), Sussex Stakes (1986 Sonic Lady; 1989 Zilzal; 1998 Among Men), Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (1985 Shadeed; 1987 Milligram; 1989 Zilzal), King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (1981 Shergar; 1993 Opera House, 2002 Golan), Juddmonte International Stakes (1993 & 1994 Ezzoud; 1997 Singspiel), Yorkshire Oaks (1978 Fair Salinia; 1985 Sally Brown; 1986 Untold; 1990 Hellenic; 1995 Pure Grain, 2000 Petrushka, 2002 Islington), July Cup (1981 Marwell; 1986 Green Desert; 1987 Ajdal), Stanley Leisure Sprint Cup (1986 Green Desert; 1987 Ajdal), Fillies’ Mile (1985 Untold), Cheveley Park Stakes (1980 Marwell; 1994 Gay Gallanta; 2000 Regal Rose), Dubai Sheema Classic (2000 Fantastic Light), Grosser Dallmayr-Preis (2000 Greek Dance), Celebration Mile (2000 Medicean), Prix de l’Opera (2000 Petrushka), Dubai Champion Stakes (2000 Kalanisi), Racing Post Trophy (2000 Dilshaan), Dante Stakes (2001 Dilshaan), JP Morgan Private Bank Goodwood Cup (1975 Girandole), Vodafone Nassau Stakes (1977 Temple First, 1984 Optimistic Lass, 1990 Kartajana, 1994 Hawajiss, 2002 Islington), Lowther Stakes (2002 Russian Rhythm) Wins in a season (1984-2002):96:120:76:105:99:116:78:83:74:65:109:73:73:84:79:81:91:75: 104 Horses in training (1985-2003):145:142:142:170:186:191:n\a:171:147:157 :159:159:162:162:173:190:185:181:190 Wins this season: 9 Other details: Champion trainer in Britain 5 times (1981,1986,1989,1994,1997) Trains at Freemason Lodge, Newmarket

Winning jockey:-Name: Fallon, Kieren Francis. Born: County Clare, Ireland, 22/2/65 Apprenticeship: 1983 Kevin Prendergast First winner: Piccadily Lord (Navan, June 18, 1984) Wins (1988-2002): 31,28,39,29,45,60,47,91,136,202*,204*,202*,149, 166*, 149* *Champion jockey Classic wins: (8) Sagitta 2000 Guineas (2000 King’s Best, 2001 Golan), Sagitta 1000 Guineas (1997 Sleepytime, 1999 Wince, 2003 Russian Rhythm), Vodafone Oaks (1997 Reams Of Verse, 1999 Ramruma), Vodafone Derby (1999 Oath) Other major wins include: King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (2002 Golan), Sussex Stakes (1997 Ali-Royal); Cherry Hinton Stakes (1996 Dazzle), Prince Of Wales’s Stakes (1997 Bosra Sham), Ribblesdale Stakes (1997 Yashmak), Cheveley Park Stakes (1997 Embassy), St James’s Palace Stakes (1998 Dr Fong), Yorkshire Oaks (1998 Catchascatchcan, 1999 Ramruma, 2002 Islington), Gimcrack Stakes (1994 Chilly Billy, 1998 Josr Algharoud); Princess Of Wales’s Stakes (1999 Craigsteel); Tattersalls Gold Cup (1999 Shiva); Irish Oaks (1999 Ramruma); Budweiser International Stakes (1999 Great Dane); Vodafone Coronation Cup (2000 Daliapour, 2002 Boreal), Jockey Club Stakes (2000 Blueprint), Dubai Sheema Classic (2000 Fantastic Light), Queen Anne Stakes (2000 Kalanisi, 2001 Medicean), Masai Mile (2001 Nicobar), Dee Stakes (2001 Dr Greenfield), Dante Stakes (2001 Dilshaan), Macau Jockey Club Craven Stakes (2002 King Of Happiness), Gerrard Investment Management Richmond Stakes (1997 Daggers Drawn, 2002 Elusive City), Vodafone Nassau Stakes (2002 Islington), Prix Morny (2002 Elusive City), Lowther Stakes (2002 Russian Rhythm), Diadem Stakes (2002 Crystal Castle) Wins This Season: 31

FIFTH RACE RESULT

4.30pm MAY CLASSIFIED STAKES
Class B, £20,000 added, for 3yo rated 0-95 - also open to horses rated 96-100 - see below. Weights: colts and geldings 8st 11lb; fillies 8st 8lb (for horses rated 96 or higher, the excess in any rating above 95 shall be added to the weights stated). Penalties: after April 26, a winner 6lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £13,442; 2nd: £4,136; 3rd: £2,068; 4th: £1,034

1) EXCELLENTO (Sheikh Mohammed) David Loder 3-8-11 Frankie Dettori [4] 10/11F
2) AVENTURA (Apb Racing) Mark Polglase 3-8-11 Darryll Holland [5] 50/1
3) AVERSHAM (John Deer) Richard Hannon 3-8-13 Pat Eddery [1]
4) ZABAGLIONE (Ronnie Beevor) Roger Charlton 3-8-11 Michael Kinane [7]
5) RYAN'S ACADEMY (Paul Carty) Ger Lynch IRE b1 3-8-12 Eddie Ahern [6]
6) POLAR FORCE (Ridgeway Downs Racing) Mick Channon 3-9-02 Steve Drowne [2]
7) RED WIZARD (T Mohan) Bill O'Gorman 3-8-11 Kieren Fallon [3]

7 ran
Dist: 1 1/2, 1 1/4, 1 1/2, 1/2, 4, 5
Time: 1m 27.22s
Breeder: Darley Stud Managemnent LLC
Breeding: ch c Rahy (USA) - Golden Opinion (USA) (Slew O’Gold)
Tote: Win: £1.90 Places: £1.50; £10.50 Exacta: £63.70

Winning trainer:-Name: Loder, David Richard Date of birth: 26/1/64 First trainer's licence: 25/9/1992Previous occupation: assistant trainer to Geoff Wragg; Wins in a season (1992-2002):2:45:39:48:58:56:61:1:3:42:14 Horses in training:(1993-2001): 35,53,n/r,86,122,90, n/r,n/r, n/r Major wins include: St James’s Palace Stakes (1997 Starborough), Cheveley Park Stakes (1995 Blue Duster, 1997 Embassy), Italian Derby (1996 Bahamian Knight), Jersey Stakes (1996 Lucayan Prince), Moyglare Stud Stakes (1996 Bianca Nera), Prix Jean Prat (1997 Starborough), Prix Morny (1996 Bahamian Bounty), Irish 2000 Guineas (1998 Desert Prince), Princess Margaret Stakes (1995 Blue Duster, 1997 Embassy, 1998 Mythical Girl), Prix du Moulin (1998 Desert Prince), May Hill Stakes (1998 Calando), Prix d’Aumale (1998 Saytarra), Gimcrack Stakes (2002 Country Reel), Vintage Stakes (2002 Dublin) Other Details: Emloyed by Godolphin to train juveniles, initially at Evry in France and then Newmarket. Has announced that he will retire from training at the end of this season. Wins This Season: 18

Winning jockey:-Name: Dettori, Lanfranco.Born: 15/12/70 in Milan, ItalyFirst winner: Rif (Turin, Italy, November 16, 1986), First British winner: Lizzy Hare (Goodwood June 9, 1987) Classic wins; (9) Vodafone Oaks (1994 Balanchine, 1995 Moonshell, 2002 Kazzia); Rothmans Royals St Leger (1995 Classic Cliche, 1996 Shantou), Sagitta 2000 Guineas (1996 Mark of Esteem, 1999 Island Sands), Sagitta 1000 Guineas (1998 Cape Verdi, 2002 Kazzia) Other major wins include: King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (1995 Lammtarra, 1998 Swain, 1999 Daylami), Ascot Gold Cup (1992, 1993 Drum Taps, 1998 Kayf Tara), St James’s Palace Stakes (1997 Starborough), Vodafone Coronation Cup (1996 Swain, 1997 Singspiel, 1999 Daylami, 2001 Mutafaweq), Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (1995 Lammtarra), Breeders’ Cup Mile (1994 Barathea), Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (1990 Markofdistinction; 1996 Mark of Esteem, 1999 Dubai Millennium), Juddmonte International (1996 Halling, 1997 Singspiel), Coral-Eclipse Stakes (1998 Daylami),Yorkshire Oaks (1994 Only Royale), Middle Park Stakes (1996 Bahamian Bounty), Fillies’ Mile (1990 Shamshir, 1999 Teggiano, 2000 Crystal Music), Nunthorpe Stakes (1993 Lochsong, 1995 So Factual, 1998 Lochangel), Sussex Stakes (1991 Second Set, 1999 Aljabr); Haydock Sprint Cup (1999 Diktat); Breeders’ Cup Turf (1999 Daylami), Japan Cup (1996 Singspiel); Dubai World Cup (2000 Dubai Millennium); Poule d’Essai des Poulains (1995 Vettori; 2000 Bachir, 2001 Noverre), Irish Derby (1994 Balanchine), Irish 2000 Guineas (2000 Bachir), Prix du Jockey-Club (1992 Polytain), Prix Jean Prat (1998 Almutawakel), Prix Jacques le Marois (1999 Dubai Millennium, 2000 Muhtathir), Prix de la Salamandre (1998 Aljabr); Prix Maurice de Gheest (1999 Diktat); Irish Champion Stakes (1998 Swain, 1999 Daylami, 2001 Fantastic Light, 2002 Grandera); Irish St Leger (1999 Kayf Tara); Deutsches Derby (1991 Temporal), Predominate Stakes (2000 Roscius), Duke of York Stakes (2000 Lend A Hand), Yorkshire Cup (2000 Kayf Tara), Lockinge Stakes (2000 Aljabr), Royal Lodge Stakes (2000 Atlantis Prince), Cheveley Park Stakes (2000 Regal Rose), Canadian International Stakes (2000 Mutafaweq), Sagaro Stakes (2002 Give Notice), Prince of Wales’s Stakes (2001 Fantastic Light, 2002 Grandera), JP Morgan Private Bank Goodwood Cup (1999 Kayf Tara), Grosser Preis Von Baden (2002 Marienbard), Gimcrack Stakes (2002 Country Reel), Winter Hill Stakes (2002 Naheef) Wins in a season (1987-2002): 8,22,75, 141,94,101,149,233*,217*,123,176,132,132,47,94,69 *Champion jockey Wins This Season: 10




SIXTH RACE RESULT
5.05pm MARCH HANDICAP

Class C, £14,000 added, for 4yo+ rated 100. Minimum weight 7st 12lb. Penalties: after April 26, a winner 4lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £8,729; 2nd: £3,311; 3rd: £1,655.50; 4th: £752.50; 5th: £376.25; 6th: £225.75

1) SAINT ALEBE (The Howarthing’s Partnership) David Elsworth 4-8-09 Richard Quinn [7] 10/1
2) MAMCAZMA (H A Cushing) Dave Morris 5-9-01 Neil Callan [2] 20/1
3) MYSTIC MILE (N R A Springer) Michael Jarvis 4-9-00 Philip Robinson [5] 10/1
4) IT'S THE LIMIT (John Bodie) Amanda Perrett 4-9-05 Seb Sanders [11] 11/4F
5) DANAKIL (The Danakilists) Simon Dow 8-8-10 Paul Eddery [17]
6) TEAM-MATE (Mrs P Gooden & G F Gooden) Julia Feilden 5-9-00 Amir Quinn (5) [16]
7) PRINS WILLEM (Chris Van Hoon) James Fanshawe 4-8-06 Oscar Urbina [18]
8) GREEN IDEAL (Thurloe Thoroughbreds VIII) Nicky Henderson 5-9-03 Kieren Fallon [6]
9) DANGEROUSLY GOOD (N J Jones) Richard Guest b1 5-7-12 Jamie Mackay [13]
10) DANCING PHANTOM (Bernard Bargh, Jeff Hamer, Steve Henshaw) Jimmy Moffatt 8-9-05 Frankie Dettori [15]
11) AFADAN (St Albans Chasers) John Jenkins 8-8-11 Pat Eddery [10]
12) FORBEARING (Mrs L Burnet - Osborne House II) Sir Mark Prescott 6-9-02 George Duffield [14]
13) SUMMER WINE (S Fustok) Chris Wall 4-8-11 Jimmy Fortune [1]
14) KYLKENNY (Hughie Morrison) Hughie Morrison t8-8-11 Steve Drowne [12]
15) MOWELGA (Lady Herries) Lady Herries 9-9-05 Jimmy Quinn [19]
16) RING OF DESTINY (The Ringleaders) Peter Harris 4-9-04 Willie Supple [3]
17) HALLAND (Zak Facta Ltd) Nick Littmoden p5-9-10 Ian Mongan [8]
18) MUSKATSTURM (Mrs Barney Curley) Barney Curley b4-9-05 Jamie Spencer [4]

18 ran Non-Runner: Is Wonderful (Vet’s Certificate)
Dist: 2, sh, 3, 1, 1 1/4, 3, 6, 1/2, nk, 6, 1, sh, 5, 8, sh, 1 1/2, dist
Time: 2m 33.43s
Breeder: Mrs M J Hills Breeding: b g Bishop Of Cashel - Soba Up (Persian Heights)
Tote: Win: £14.90 Places: £3.10; £3.00; £2.70; £1.80 Exacta: £682.80

Winning trainer:-Name Elsworth, David Raymond Cecil Date of Birth:12/12/39;Previous Occupation; Professional National Hunt jockey 1957-1972; Wins in a season (1992-2002):40:32: 33:14:16:24:33:50:32:36:20 Horses in training (1998-2003): 60:83:100:87:72: 61 Major wins include: Irish 1,000 Guineas (1990 In The Groove), Champion Stakes (1990 In The Groove), Coronation Cup (1991 In The Groove), Juddmonte International (1990 In The Groove), Cheveley Park Stakes (1989 Dead Certain), Henry II Stakes (1997 & 98 Persian Punch), Cambridgeshire Handicap (1998 Lear Spear), Dante Stakes (1999 Salford Express), Diomed Stakes (1999 Lear Spear), Jockey Club Cup (2000 & 2002 Persian Punch), JP Morgan Private Bank Goodwood Cup (1982 Heighlin, 2001 Persian Punch), William Hill Mile (2002 Smirk) , Royal Hunt Cup (1983 Mighty Fly, 1990 Pontenuovo), Wokingham Handicap (1983 Melindra), King’s Stand Stakes (1989 Indian Ridge), Prince of Wales’s Stakes (1999 Lear Spear) Trains at Whitsbury, Dorset. Other details: National Hunt successes include Cheltenham Gold Cup (1989 Desert Orchid), Grand National (1988 Rhyme ‘N’ Reason), King George VI Chase (1986, 1988, 1989, 1990 Desert Orchid), Whitbread Gold Cup (1988 Desert Orchid), Irish National (1990 Desert Orchid), Queen Mother Champion Chase (1989 & 1990 Barnbrook Again) Wins This Season: 10

Winning jockey:-Name: Quinn, Thomas Richard. Born: Stirling, Scotland, 2/12/61 Apprenticeship: With Paul Cole, First winner: Bolivar Baby (Kempton, October 21, 1981) Classic wins: (3) Rothmans Royals St Leger (1990 Snurge, 2000 Millenary), Vodafone Oaks (2000 Love Divine) Other major wins include: Lockinge Stakes (1988 Broken Hearted, 1996 Soviet Line), Fillies Mile’ (1991 Culture Vulture), Irish St Leger (1990 Ibn Bey, 1995 Strategic Choice), Irish Oaks (1990 Knight's Baroness), Yorkshire Oaks (1987 Bint Pasha), Cheveley Park Stakes (1989 Pass The Peace, 1999 Seazun); Dewhurst Stakes (1990 Generous); Poule d’Essai des Poulains (1992 Culture Vulture), Prix Royal Oak (1992 Assessor), Derby Italiano (1987 Zaizoom, 1994 Time Star); Rothmans International (1992 Snurge), Brigadier Gerard Stakes (2000 Shiva), Grand Prix de Paris (2000 Beat Hollow), Lupe Stakes (2000 Love Divine), Fred Darling Stakes (2001 Rolly Polly) , Cherry Hinton Stakes (2000 Dora Carrington,2002Spinola), Betfair.com Molecomb Stakes (1998 Inya Lake), Hungerford Stakes (2002 Reel Buddy) Wins 1984-2002: 62,47,69,55,46,63,90,99,117,123,115,111,149,74,108,151,140,116,104 Wins This Season: 24 Other details: Champion European apprentice 1983, Champion British apprentice 1984, retained rider to Henry Cecil from 2000


SEVENTH RACE RESULT
5.40pm HASTINGS MAIDEN STAKES

Class D, £10,000 added, for 3yo. Weights: colts & geldings 9st; fillies 8st 9lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £7,068.75; 2nd: £2,175; 3rd: £1,087.50; 4th: £543.75

1) LAIDLOW (Sir Evelyn de Rothschild) Sir Michael Stoute 3-9-00 Kieren Fallon [12] 7/1
2) TIME AHEAD (Robert Barnett) John Dunlop 3-8-09 Pat Eddery [3] 10/1
3) PSALTER (Simon Broke & Partners) Henry Candy 3-9-00 Michael Fenton [13] 40/1
4) BISHOPRIC (Girsonfield Ltd) Henry Candy 3-9-00 Seb Sanders [6]
5 LEOBALLERO (Cliff Lines and M Mason) Hugh Collingridge t3-9-00 Jimmy Quinn [5]
6) ACT OF DUTY (Sheikh Mohammed) David Loder 3-9-00 Frankie Dettori [15] 1/2F
7) CARIBBEAN MAN (Pierpoint Scott) Sir Michael Stoute 3-9-00 Brett Doyle [2]
8) DAWAARR (Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum) Michael Jarvis 3-9-00 Philip Robinson [1]
9) FERNERY (Fittocks Stud) Luca Cumani 3-8-09 Jamie Spencer [4]
10) PRIORS DALE (Mrs L Alexander) Kevin Bell 3-9-00 Eddie Ahern [7]
11) GRAND CROSS (Plantation Stud) William Jarvis 3-9-00 Martin Dwyer [17]
12) ANGEL ANNIE (Terry Connors) Jim Gilbert 3-8-04 Brian Reilly (5) [8]
13) LADY OF EMINENCE (Julia Feilden) Julia Feilden 3-8-09 Oscar Urbina [10]
14) FEED THE METER (P Harper) Greg Chung 3-8-09 Gary Carter [16]
15) JADE (J H Richmond-Watson) Amanda Perrett 3-9-00 Darryll Holland [9]
16) MUNAAFIS (Hamdan Al Maktoum) John Dunlop 3-9-00 Willie Supple [18]
17) MARAVEDI (Mrs C C Regalado-Gonzalez) Shaun Keightley 3-8-09 Pat McCabe [11]
18) PENALTY CLAUSE (George Prodromou) George Prodromou 3-9-00 Alan Mackay [20]
19) INDRAPURA STAR (Julia Feliden) Jula Feilden 3-8-09 Amir Quinn (5) [14]

19 ran Non-Runner: Colophony (Vet’s Certificate)
Dist: nk, 2, 5, 1, 2 1/2, 1/2, nk, 1 3/4, sh, 1/2, 1 3/4, 8, sh, 1 1/4, 1 1/2, 1 1/2, 12, 11
Time: 1m 40.66s
Breeder: Mt Joy Stables Inc, Dan Dressel & Pope McClean
Breeding: ch c Mt Livermore (USA) - Cato Lady (USA) (Nasty And Bold (USA))
Tote: Win: £7.50 Places: £2.20; £2.80; £23.40 Exacta: £87.30

Winning trainer:-Name: Stoute, Sir Michael Ronald Date of birth:22/10/45 Date of first licence: 1972 Previous Occupation: Served with Pat Rohan, Doug Smith and Tom Jones. Classic wins: (11) Sagitta 1000 Guineas (1989 Musical Bliss, 2003 Russian Rhythm), Sagitta 2000 Guineas (1985 Shadeed, 1988 Doyoun, 1997 Entrepreneur, 2000 King’s Best, 2001 Golan), Vodafone Derby (1981 Shergar, 1986 Shahrastani), Vodafone Oaks (1978 Fair Salinia, 1987 Unite) Other big race wins: Irish 2,000 Guineas (1989 Shaadi), Irish 1,000 Guineas (1986 Sonic Lady), Irish Derby (1983 Shareef Dancer, 1986 Sharatani), Irish Oaks (1978 Fair Salinia, 1986 Colorspin, 1987 Unite, 1988 Melodist, 1995 Pure Grain, 2000 Petrushka), Italian Oaks (1988 Melodist, 1986 Ivor’s Image), Vodafone Coronation Cup (1992 Saddler’s Hall, 1993 Opera House, 1997 Singspiel, 2000 Daliapour), Dubai World Cup (Singspiel 1997), Coral-Eclipse (1993 Opera House; 1994 Ezzoud;1997 Pilsudski, 2001 Medicean), Japan Cup (1996 Singspiel, 1997 Pilsudski), Sussex Stakes (1986 Sonic Lady; 1989 Zilzal; 1998 Among Men), Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (1985 Shadeed; 1987 Milligram; 1989 Zilzal), King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (1981 Shergar; 1993 Opera House, 2002 Golan), Juddmonte International Stakes (1993 & 1994 Ezzoud; 1997 Singspiel), Yorkshire Oaks (1978 Fair Salinia; 1985 Sally Brown; 1986 Untold; 1990 Hellenic; 1995 Pure Grain, 2000 Petrushka, 2002 Islington), July Cup (1981 Marwell; 1986 Green Desert; 1987 Ajdal), Stanley Leisure Sprint Cup (1986 Green Desert; 1987 Ajdal), Fillies’ Mile (1985 Untold), Cheveley Park Stakes (1980 Marwell; 1994 Gay Gallanta; 2000 Regal Rose), Dubai Sheema Classic (2000 Fantastic Light), Grosser Dallmayr-Preis (2000 Greek Dance), Celebration Mile (2000 Medicean), Prix de l’Opera (2000 Petrushka), Dubai Champion Stakes (2000 Kalanisi), Racing Post Trophy (2000 Dilshaan), Dante Stakes (2001 Dilshaan), JP Morgan Private Bank Goodwood Cup (1975 Girandole), Vodafone Nassau Stakes (1977 Temple First, 1984 Optimistic Lass, 1990 Kartajana, 1994 Hawajiss, 2002 Islington), Lowther Stakes (2002 Russian Rhythm) Wins in a season (1984-2002):96:120:76:105:99:116:78:83:74:65:109:73:73:84:79:81:91:75: 104 Horses in training (1985-2003):145:142:142:170:186:191:n\a:171:147:157 :159:159:162:162:173:190:185:181:190 Wins this season: 10 Other details: Champion trainer in Britain 5 times (1981,1986,1989,1994,1997) Trains at Freemason Lodge, Newmarket

Winning jockey:-Name: Fallon, Kieren Francis. Born: County Clare, Ireland, 22/2/65 Apprenticeship: 1983 Kevin Prendergast First winner: Piccadily Lord (Navan, June 18, 1984) Wins (1988-2002): 31,28,39,29,45,60,47,91,136,202*,204*,202*,149, 166*, 149* *Champion jockey Classic wins: (8) Sagitta 2000 Guineas (2000 King’s Best, 2001 Golan), Sagitta 1000 Guineas (1997 Sleepytime, 1999 Wince, 2003 Russian Rhythm), Vodafone Oaks (1997 Reams Of Verse, 1999 Ramruma), Vodafone Derby (1999 Oath) Other major wins include: King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (2002 Golan), Sussex Stakes (1997 Ali-Royal); Cherry Hinton Stakes (1996 Dazzle), Prince Of Wales’s Stakes (1997 Bosra Sham), Ribblesdale Stakes (1997 Yashmak), Cheveley Park Stakes (1997 Embassy), St James’s Palace Stakes (1998 Dr Fong), Yorkshire Oaks (1998 Catchascatchcan, 1999 Ramruma, 2002 Islington), Gimcrack Stakes (1994 Chilly Billy, 1998 Josr Algharoud); Princess Of Wales’s Stakes (1999 Craigsteel); Tattersalls Gold Cup (1999 Shiva); Irish Oaks (1999 Ramruma); Budweiser International Stakes (1999 Great Dane); Vodafone Coronation Cup (2000 Daliapour, 2002 Boreal), Jockey Club Stakes (2000 Blueprint), Dubai Sheema Classic (2000 Fantastic Light), Queen Anne Stakes (2000 Kalanisi, 2001 Medicean), Masai Mile (2001 Nicobar), Dee Stakes (2001 Dr Greenfield), Dante Stakes (2001 Dilshaan), Macau Jockey Club Craven Stakes (2002 King Of Happiness), Gerrard Investment Management Richmond Stakes (1997 Daggers Drawn, 2002 Elusive City), Vodafone Nassau Stakes (2002 Islington), Prix Morny (2002 Elusive City), Lowther Stakes (2002 Russian Rhythm), Diadem Stakes (2002 Crystal Castle) Wins This Season: 32
LEADING JOCKEYS AT THE END OF THE SAGITTA GUINEAS FESTIVAL

1st 2nd 3rd
Pat Eddery 3 2 1
Richard Quinn 3 - -
Kieren Fallon 2 3 2
Frankie Dettori 2 2 3
Richard Hughes 1 1 1
Eddie Ahern 1 1 -
Pat Smullen 1 1 -
Philip Robinson 1 - 2
Darryll Holland 1 - 1
Christophe Soumillon 1 - 1
Keith Dalgleish 1 - -
Martin Dwyer 1 - -
Adrian Nicholls 1 - -
Jimmy Quinn 1 - -
Seb Sanders 1 - -
Neil Callan - 2 -
Thierry Thulliez - 2 -
Steve Drowne - 1 2
Richard Mullen - 1 1
Kevin Darley - 1 -
Jimmy Fortune - 1 -
Darryll Holland - 1 -
Mick Kinane - 1 -
Willie Supple - 1 -

LEADING TRAINERS AT THE END OF THE SAGITTA GUINEAS FESTIVAL

1st 2nd 3rd
Amanda Perrett 3 - -
Sir Michael Stoute 2 1 1
John Dunlop 1 2 -
Saeed bin Suroor 1 1 1
David Nicholls 1 1 -
Dermot Weld IRE 1 1 -
Richard Hannon 1 - 2
David Elsworth 1 - 1
David Loder 1 - 1
John Akehurst 1 - -
Clive Brittain 1 - -
Henry Cecil 1 - -
Clive Cox 1 - -
Peter Harris 1 - -
Mark Johnston 1 - -
Bryan McMahon 1 - -
Mick Ryan 1 - -
Mark Tompkins 1 - -
John Gosden - 2 1
Pascal Bary FR - 2 -
Dave Morris - 2 -
Mick Channon - 1 3
Chris Wall - 1 1
Milton Bradley - 1 -
Gerard Butler - 1 -
Neville Callaghan - 1 -
Ed Dunlop - 1 -
Richard Fahey - 1 -
Mark Polglase - 1 -
Marcus Tregoning - 1 -
Andrew Balding - 1 -

FUNNY CIDE WINS THE KENTUCKY DERBY

“I don't understand it.," he said "I can't believe it. I just don't know why he didn't run his race.''
The winner was bred by the Win Star Farm of Kenny Troutt and Bill Casner. They bought the farm near Versailles, Ky., in early 2000 so the mating was done by the previous owners, brothers Art. Jack and J.R. Preston. The farm was then called Prestonwood. Distorted Humor, sire of the Derby winner, stands at Win Star.
Funny Cide was sold as a yearling at the Fasig-Tipton Saratoga sale for $22,000. Tagg saw him for the first time November of his yearling year at Tony Everard's farm and training centre in Ocala, Fla. Tagg said he liked Funny Cide but did not purchase him until the following spring, paying $75,000 for the Derby winner.

According to figures released late Saturday by Churchill Downs, a total of $87,663,663 was bet from all sources on the Derby, representing a 10.83% gain over the $79,095,311 bet on the race in 2002. Handle for the entire card totalled $140,250,590, up 13.8% over the $123,243,188 bet on last year's card.
With on-track attendance up 2.5% to 148,530, on-track wagering increased 5.21% to total $9,079,841 on the Derby and was up 6.09% to $20,583,143 for all 12 races.

Trainer Bobby Frankel was unable to finish his blazing start on Kentucky Derby Day.
Frankel won the first three graded stakes on the undercard and finished second in a fourth.
But the race he really wanted -- the Kentucky Derby -- ended in disappointment, with Empire Maker finishing second and his other horse, Peace Rules, placing third behind winner Funny Cide.
This was supposed to be the one win that would validate the 3,000 others, the four Eclipse awards, the decades of work, sweat and fears, the fame and fortune that comes with the climb to the top of the racing game.
Instead, Frankel stood in the paddock empty-handed while Barclay Tagg, a journeyman trainer making his first Derby start, strode into the winner's circle and wrapped his hands around the heavy gold trophy.
“I'm taking it better than I thought I could take it, you know,'' Frankel said.
For the better part of two minutes in the late-afternoon sunlight, Frankel looked like a genius.
Peace Rules flew out of the gate with his early speed and jockey Jerry Bailey, aboard Empire Maker, broke cleanly and stayed outside and just off the pace, where there was plenty of room to run.
As they turned for home, Funny Cide was between Peace Rules on the inside and Empire Maker on the outside. Frankel, who is too nervous most of the time to watch his horses run from the grandstand, stood in front of a TV in the paddock.
“I thought I was going to win it,'' he said.
Instead, it was Funny Cide who began to draw clear. The burst that had carried Empire Maker away from his rivals at the Florida Derby never happened. Bailey said he knew the foot wasn't a factor from the outset, because Empire Maker changed leads each time he asked.
But Empire Maker couldn't find that extra gear, confirming the doubts that had crept into Bailey's head almost as soon as they left the gate.
“I wasn't real confident at any point. Around the turn, even though he was making up ground, he was working hard to do it,'' Bailey said.
Everything had changed in the last 30 years for Frankel, except this: He'd started six horses in five of the 12 races on the Churchill Downs card Saturday and his final tally was three wins, two seconds and a third.
That was good enough for just about anybody else in the racket. But Frankel lost the race he cared about most.
Away from the glare, he struggled to get hold of his emotions. While he waited on Bailey for a final report, Frankel sarcastically blamed Empire Maker's loss on, “that little mistraining that he had.''
Not far away, old training hand D. Wayne Lukas walked toward the paddock with his jockey for a post-mortem of his own. He chased this race for seven years before winning one, but three more have come his way since.
“The waiting can be excruciating. And after the way it builds up here, it can be a hell of a drop. But there's one out there,'' Lukas said, glancing at Frankel, “with his name on it.''
Just not this one.
As that reality sunk in, Frankel spun on his heels and started to walk away.
“The horse will live to fight another day,'' he said in a low, steady voice, “and so will I.''

For old articles (from 1st March 2000) go to the Newslink Archive

©Racenews 2002
designed and produced by Racenews Internet Services