It was our homebred filly, Bare Necessity, that kicked things off nicely with our first win of the year on 13th January, with a strong and competitive performance in the 6f Handicap at Lingfield. Amongst a field of six runners, the filly broke well with John Fahy in the saddle, and quickly attained an early lead on the rails. Battling down the home straight, the closing stages looked to be a tight race, but she held on nicely to win by a head. We were really pleased to see her remain consistent in this run and handle the pressure well when challenged. I t was great to see get her head in front again and she will now be moving on to a new career as a mum and will be visiting Harry Angel in the near future.
On 19th January, Kingdom Come was next to secure first place with a comfortable success in the 7f Novice Stakes at Kempton. Having been absent from racing since September 2021, following an unusual injury with a torn ligament in his foot, it’s been a slow and patient journey to get this horse back to the track, so we were thrilled that he made his return performance a winning one for his owning connections, China Horse Club Int Ltd.
Jumping well, the former breeze-up purchase found himself positioned nicely, with Rossa Ryan on board, and showcased his racing ability well to finish in front by a 2 ¼ length lead. It will be nice to see him grow in confidence from this as we consider our next move and what opportunity lies next.
On 21st January, Acai claimed his very first success after crossing the line in front at Southwell in the 7f Handicap Stakes. Making early pace, with John Fahy in the saddle, Acai led the field with a nice position on the rail. Although he drifted slightly after the turn for home, his pace was unmatched, and he stayed on nicely in closing stages to secure his winning debut. We were delighted for his owning connection, Saeed Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, and look forward to him coming on even more from this now we have a victory under our belts.
Making her handicap debut a winning one, three-year-old filly, Gwendolina, was next to finish in front, this time on the all-weather track at Lingfield over the 7f distance on 28th January. Breaking well from the stalls and holding a nice early position, John Fahy tucked in behind the front runner before moving her up on the outside and quickening away from the turn from home. A great performance from this filly and delighted for the result for her owner, Lord Carnarvon.