Irish eyes smiling as Black Forza reels in Richmond favourite
The Strikin Viking looked the likely winner only to be caught close home.
A fast-finishing Black Forza upset favourite The Strikin Viking to land the Markel Richmond Stakes for Irish handler Michael O’Callaghan. Much of the pre-race talk was about Wathnan Racing’s new purchase The Strikin Viking, who went off as the 11-10 market leader, and he was soon in charge of proceedings of the six-furlong contest. Despite an early challenge from Tropical Storm, trainer Hamad Al Jehani looked on course for his first ever British turf winner at the final furlong marker when The Strikin Viking moved clear in front.At the this point, Black Forza was off the bridle near the rear and not in consideration before he clicked into top gear and made his move under Dylan Browne McMonagle. The son of Complexity motored down the inside to cruise past six rivals with only the leader ahead, who he overtook in the closing stages to win at 9-1 by half a length.
Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
Jan Brueghel out of Melbourne Cup after failed vet check
The St Leger winner was deemed to be ‘at heightened risk of injury’.
-
Pletcher backing Fierceness to topple Troy in Classic clash
‘We have tremendous respect for City Of Troy, but we know full well that this will be a different kind of race’.
-
Envoi Allen ready for Down Royal return
Winner of the Champion Chase in 2022, Henry de Bromhead’s charge will be back for more.
-
Heart Wood sparks birthday double for De Bromhead
Inthepocket seals Wexford brace for trainer with impressive chase verdict.
-
Mike Smith confident City Of Troy ‘should handle the dirt’
Breeders’ Cup Classic test is expected to be ‘right up his alley’!
-
Bravemansgame will bid to regain Charlie Hall trophy
Paul Nicholls-trained nine-year-old won at Wetherby in 2022 and was second last term.
-
American racing fraternity eagerly awaiting Classic siege of Troy
John Sadler: ‘It’s extremely exciting and it will add a lot to the event at Del Mar.’
-
Henderson ‘couldn’t be happier’ following Constitution Hill gallop
Hurdling star enjoyed a racecourse spin at Newbury on Monday morning.
-
Arc victor Bluestocking retired to stud
Champions Day winner Kalpana will race on for Juddmonte in 2025.
-
Newbury and then Ascot on the agenda for Crambo
Fergal O’Brien: ‘He’s working very well and we’ve been pleased with him.’