Archdeacon – being hosed down the day after his win
ARCHDEACON went to Chelmsford this evening as 3/1 favourite for a 1m2f handicap and bolted up by five lengths.
Arguably a tad unlucky at Wolverhampton last time out when second, beaten just a neck after not getting a clear run, he made amends in spades this time around. Kieran O’Neill who was in the saddle on that occasion was on board again and Archdeacon, who was always travelling well for him broke his duck in fine style.
Drawn nicely in five, he chased the leaders and travelling better than most three furlongs out, switched right and was ridden to lead over a furlong from home. He was soon in command and despite drifting a little to the right inside the distance, he won comfortably from runner-up, Picture Poet. This was only the horse’s ninth run and judge on yesterday’s evidence, he could win again, although he is sure to face a hike in the weights by the handicapper.
The winner is jointly owned by Ken Ivory and Michael Yarrow, so congratulations to them both. Dean went to Chelmsford to cheer on his Dad’s horse, so perhaps that was a tip in itself!
This was the 18th win of the campaign for Harper Lodge Farm and the sixth in May which is often a quiet month for the stable due to the high levels of local rape seed crops which affect some horses’ breathing. Fortunately, there seems to be less of it around this year.
Earlier in the afternoon, Solario Racing’s Dancinginthewoods ran a very creditable race to be fourth in the £60,000 6f Woodcote Stakes at Epsom. He did not handle the track, through greenness and six furlongs is already too short for him, so all in all, we are all delighted with his run. Not only did the owners have a great day but “Woody” did them proud and the horse won over £2,500!
This year’s Woodcote looked a decent contest, despite the small field and the first four home all look useful….and that includes Dancinginthewoods!
