Longsdon optimistic for Willie Boy
Trainer Charlie Longsdon is optimistic that Willie Boy’s first race over three miles can open up new possibilities.
The Wetherby winner has yet to try his luck over a distance of more than two miles and five furlongs as he prepares to line up in the Sky Bet Handicap Chase at Doncaster on Saturday. He faces tough opposition in the race, with Alan King’s Dingo Dollar seen as the horse to beat with last year’s runner-up Warrior’s Tale also in the line-up, as well as a test of his own stamina. However, despite the seven-year-old’s lack of experience in that particular distance, Longsdon remains confident that he can cope with the adjustments. ‘Three miles is an unknown, but we think he will probably get it,’ said the Cotswolds trainer of his former point-to-pointer. ‘I hope it will really suit him, and he’ll actually improve for it. ‘Of course, there are plenty of point-to-point winners who only get two miles. But for him, I think going over three could just slow things down a bit and help him. It’s been well documented he’s had a few issues with his jumping. ‘He’s in great form with himself. He was going very well in the BetVictor when he came down – who knows what would have happened, but he was definitely going as well as anything.’Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
Emily Upjohn ‘in top form’ for Coronation Cup repeat bid
John and Thady Gosden’s mare impressively landed the Epsom Group One last year.
-
Wathnan eyeing Gold Cup repeat with star staying duo
All roads lead to Royal Ascot for Courage Mon Ami and Gregory.
-
Haya Zark belies big odds to claim Prix Ganay glory
Al Riffa was a fair fourth for Joseph O’Brien in ParisLongchamp Group One.
-
Prydwen tees up Northumberland Plate tilt with Southwell strike
‘The Plate is over a course and distance he’s won over, so it’s an absolute no-brainer.’
-
Racing saddened by death of ‘warrior’ Shishkin
Nicky Henderson: ‘He was our star and we will never forget him.’
-
Nicholls remains confident ‘we will make it 15 one day’
Ditcheat handler had to settle for third place in this season’s title race.
-
Romantic Warrior reigns again but Golden Sixty upset
There were mixed fortunes for Hong Kong’s two superstars on Champions Day.
-
Nicholls remains confident ‘we will make it 15 one day’
Ditcheat handler had to settle for third place in this season’s title race.