Sharp Distinction in the Sandown Paddock
SHARP DISTINCTION has been crying out for cut in the ground and indeed a step up in trip and today, he had both when coming a fine fourth at Sandown after 102 days off the track.
The ground was officially soft and this strapping 3yo son of Tamayuz, was running over 1m2f for the first time. He may have been the 28/1 outsider of the nine-runner party but he belied his odds in taking fashion.
They went no gallop but Stefano Cherchi, claiming 3lbs, was happy to dictate from the front and was indeed in pole position for the first four furlongs. He was then headed but remained prominent, was switched to the nearside three furlongs out and was ridden two from home. He weakened inside the final furlong but was always going to get fourth.
Sharp Distinction with Amy Murphy & Owners
Not surprisingly, the horse had a good blow after the race and he will undoubtedly come on for his first outing in over three months. Stefano confirmed what we had always thought in that he loved the ground. The trip suited and we’ll stick to 10 furlongs for now although he may well get further in due course.
The Solario Racing (Berkhamsted) owners were out in force and were thrilled with the race which was a competitive 0-80 3yo only handicap. Many of the field were race fit, so this was a very creditable performance by Sharp Distinction, his first under Amy Murphy, since he moved to Southgate Stables back in June.
Solario Racing owners enjoying Champagne
With autumn now upon us, the there should be plenty of ease in the ground from now on, so he should see more action before the end of the turf season. Lightly-raced but with plenty of scope and potential, the owners have unanimously decided to keep him on as a 4yo.
As well as being pleased with the result, owners enjoyed a hospitality box and also the post-race Champagne!
