The undefeated Quddwah, trained by Simon and Ed Crisford, is setting sights on redemption at the Anne Cowley Memorial Summer Mile Stakes this Saturday, following a missed opportunity at Royal Ascot. Despite presenting strong claims for the Queen Anne, an issue with his blood count sidelined him from the tournament, similar to his stablemate Vandeek. The disappointment deepened as Docklands, a contender Quddwah had outpaced in May, finished as Charyn’s runner-up at the meeting’s inaugural race.
Ed Crisford expressed his regret over the missed opportunity caused by Quddwah’s abnormal blood count. Acknowledging the promising performance at Ascot earlier in May, he held the belief that Quddwah is on a good path and the upcoming race is an appropriate endeavour for him, despite its rigorous competition.
Also tipped for success alongside Quddwah is Sonny Liston, trained by Ralph Beckett. Starting off his career under Charlie Hills and participating in the Derby, he has now become a top-notch miler under Beckett, narrowly missing out on victory at the Hunt Cup while carrying high weight. Emma Spencer, racing manager for Chelsea Thoroughbreds, which owns Sonny Liston, commended his performance at the Hunt Cup.
Describing it as “incredible”, she noted it as among the best weight-carrying runs at Royal Ascot in the past quarter of a century. Currently rated 114, Sonny Liston has graduated from handicaps. However, Spencer had concerns about the upcoming race’s small field and curved path, establishing them as new challenges for Sonny Liston. These reservations emerged from his lack of enjoying York’s John Smith’s Cup—his only race on a curved track since his maiden outing at Sandown. Yet, Spencer remained optimistic, detailing former Hunt Cup’s winner Jimi Hendrix – previously owned by Chelsea Thoroughbreds – who finished third in the same race last year.
The horse is versatile as it’s able to perform well on any track, regardless of the ground type. Though quicker grounds are preferred, soft grounds have also witnessed impressive performances. The horse’s performance doesn’t seem likely to be impaired by the nature of the terrain.
The Sussex Stakes is observed as a future option, as a strategic race; one particularly competitive. Prior factors for this consideration include the location at Ascot and the quality of competitors. Further intrigue centers around an earlier experience involving Jimi Hendrix in Australia. Unlike Sonny who is relatively straightforward, Hendrix exhibited hints of claustrophobia along with distinct idiosyncrasies.
Measuring their talents is challenging, especially with Sonny’s improved performance this year. His exhibition at Newbury and subsequent Hunt Cup appearance have significantly heightened his standing, making it difficult to conclusively gauge his prowess. The upcoming race seems promising, with Sonny being officially the top-rated horse, and Quddwah, another promising contender. A fast-paced race aligns perfectly with Sonny’s preferred style of hanging behind initially.
The medium-term goal is to achieve a good finish in the upcoming race and position for the Sussex. Meanwhile, Royal Dubai, under trainer Marco Botti, put on a notable performance during the last Epsom run-up, finishing second in the Diomed Stakes. The Ascot’s stiff finish matches Royal Dubai’s abilities well. He’s got adequate speed, and at the same time, he’s a durable racer over a mile. His optimum range falls between a mile and one, and anything over a quarter-mile strains him.
The immediate plan seeks a return to Dubai, leaving room for just one or two races here. The Strensall Stakes at York appear to be the next potential target, after which Royal Dubai ought to take time out for refreshments prior to the Carnival.