Forest Of Dean claims Winter Derby glory for Gosden and Havlin
Good Friday target for Godolphin-owned winner.
John Gosden continued his winter big-race haul, adding the Betway Winter Derby to his Saudi Cup triumph when Forest Of Dean executed his trainer’s ‘Plan B’ to perfection under a copybook ride from Robert Havlin at Lingfield. Gosden had told Havlin that Plan A was to make the running in the Group Three contest – but when Johnny Drama beat him to that punch the jockey reverted to the second plan, making his move coming down the hill and taking a valuable two lengths out of the field. Felix and Father Of Jazz tried to close the gap, but ran out of real estate as Forest Of Dean (100-30) held on by three-quarters of a length and a length. Gosden said: “He’s definitely on an upward curve and Rab rode him beautifully. When he got to the top of the hill he said ‘I’m gonna steal this’ and kept him rolling. “He’s a brave little horse who was off for over 400 days after having problems following his run at Newbury. I think the Easter Classic over a mile and a quarter (on All-Weather Championships Finals Day) might be more his scene than the Lincoln.” The Clarehaven trainer had news of Mishriff, who has astounded him since arriving back from Saudi. He added: “Mishriff is in top order. He came back on Monday and had a lead out on Wednesday, but he was so fresh on Wednesday, squealing and playing, that I had to give him two canters on Warren Hill this morning. “I’ve spoken to Prince Faisal and we’ve agreed to leave it at least 10 days before making a plan for him.”Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
Cox looking towards Haydock for Jasour before Royal Ascot
Early blockbuster clash with Vandeek could be on the cards.
-
Hollie Doyle partners Folgaria for French 1000 Guineas tilt
Her form received a significant boost at Newmarket when Elmalka, who finished third behind her in the Fred Darling at Newbury, won the 1000 Guineas.
-
Angel set for second chance at Classic glory in Ireland or France
Fallen Angel travelled well for a long way over the Rowley Mile, but flattened out in the latter stages.
-
Juddmonte hope Cadogan Place can replicate Arrest with Vase success
‘He’s a nice colt, he’s improving a lot and is a well-bred colt, so we’re looking forward to a good run’.
-
Joseph O’Brien believes Galileo Dame can answer Cheshire Oaks question
‘We think she is a nice filly who will be able to hold her own in Listed company going forward’.
-
Musidora mission could secure Oaks ticket for Siyola
Impressive Sandown winner set for test of Classic credentials at York.
-
Adrian Heskin calls time on his race-riding career
‘I’m very proud of my career and achieved far more than I could have imagined as a kid’.
-
Gregarina makes her mark in Athasi debut
Joseph O’Brien’s French import could be seen at Royal Ascot.