Irish Luck, French Flair, and British Grit: August Racing Highlights

The 7th of August brought us a truly memorable victory in Leopardstown, Ireland, as Johan claimed his first Group win in the Bahrain Turf Club Desmond Stakes. The 8-year-old, fresh from a 284-day break, showed the time away had worked wonders, finishing strongly under a well-judged ride from Ronan Whelan. It was a day when the luck of the Irish was firmly on our side.

Just two days later, on the 9th of August at Haydock, Excellent Believe delivered our second success of the month in the Betfred “Supports Jack Berry House” Handicap. Despite being caught wide on the bend, the 4-year-old proved equal to the task, storming home for his third career victory thanks to a confident ride from Tom Marquand.

Across the Channel on the 10th of August, Miss Attitude lit up Deauville with a commanding performance in the Prix du Cercle – Don Juan Cuneo Solari (Listed Race). With Rob Hornby in the saddle, the 5-year-old showed her trademark grit, pulling away to score by 1½ lengths. A special congratulations goes to Norman Court Stud on their first Listed win of the year with us here at West Ilsley.

Rounding off an exciting stretch of racing, Chief Mankato returned to Windsor for the Fitzdares Sprint Series Final Handicap under Edward Greatrex. Breaking slowly and settling near the rear, the 4-year-old found his rhythm in the straight, surging forward and edging clear in the final 110 yards to win by a neck.