Space Blues powers to Lennox Stakes victory
Appleby colt completes hat-trick with Group Two success at Goodwood.
Space Blues put in a power-packed finish to claim Group Two honours in the Qatar Lennox Stakes at Goodwood. The four-year-old, seeking a hat-trick following a Listed win at Haydock and a French Group Three, was settled towards the rear of the field by William Buick as Marie’s Diamond set out to make all. Glorious Journey and Pierre Lapin were also prominent in the early exchanges, with Buick tracking Escobar through the field until producing his mount approaching the last of seven furlongs. The Charlie Appleby-trained Space Blues showed an excellent change of gear when Buick kicked, soon pulling clear and going on two win by two lengths as the 2-1 favourite. Duke Of Hazzard kept on for second after struggling to find a gap at one point- while Escobar was third, despite appearing to get a slight bump from Space Blues as he made his winning move. Appleby was impressed, and may head back to France next with Space Blues.“It was a pleasing performance,” said the Newmarket trainer. “He was the class horse in the race. I always felt he travelled into it really well and he got a good run into it. “As per usual at Goodwood I’m sure there are a few hard-luck stories down on the rail. William gave him a nice ride and had a nice clean run at it.” Space Blues’ next race will depend how quickly he recovers from his exertions. Appleby added: “If he bounces well out of this I see no reason why we can’t look at the Maurice de Gheest on August 9. “It comes up quick – it is only 10 days away. We will see how he bounces out of it, but it could be a potential target. “He does deserve a big one, because he has knocked on the door enough times now. It would be nice for him to get a Group One tag around his neck if we can. “He has definitely strengthened for sure. “He is still what I call a ‘feminine’ Dubawi, but he is a great traveller and has proved he is a seven-furlong specialist. “It would be lovely to drop him back to six and a half in the Maurice de Gheest – and if there is pace in the race it would give him something to aim at.”
Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
Ramatuelle ruled out of Breeders’ Cup Mile bid
French ace scratched from Del Mar contest following veterinary advice.
-
Horse Racing
Yahagi has every faith Forever Young is ready for Classic battle
‘Perfect preparation’ for Kentucky Derby third heading into City Of Troy clash.
-
Exciting times as Brighterdaysahead starts off at Down Royal
‘One step at a time’ for Grade One-winning mare, who was expected to go chasing this season.
-
Joseph O’Brien expecting Classic show from ‘right type’ Troy
But Kieren Fallon sounding note of caution ahead of Del Mar blockbuster.
-
Grand Sefton not on the agenda for Minella Drama
Donald McCain happy to wait for other targets with Old Roan winner.
-
Eydon back on familiar ground at Newmarket this weekend
High-class five-year-old was fourth in the 2000 Guineas two years ago.
-
Charlie Appleby launching dual assault on Juvenile Turf
Aomori City and Al Qudra chasing Breeders’ Cup gold at Del Mar.
-
Wathnan juveniles all set for Breeders’ Cup battle
And Mick Appleby hunting race repeat, this time with Big Mojo.
-
‘It will be great if he could win’ – Bin Suroor rooting for City Of Troy
Godolphin trainer knows what it is like to come close to Breeders’ Cup Classic glory.
-
Hobson ‘can’t wait’ to unleash Fugitif at Cheltenham
Paddy Power Gold Cup again the aim for Prestbury Park fan.