All the talk at John Gosden’s yard this week will be over Enable’s emphatic success at Longchamp on Sunday. As is the case with many trainers, there is always an eye on the future, and TURGENEV looks to certainly fit the bill of a future stable star. Owned by HRH Princess Haya of Jordan and a son of Dubawi, Turgenev along with Ballydoyle-trained Il Paradiso were one of a few with racecourse experience before the off. The pair showed their experience, and more their class by pulling six lengths clear of the rest. Turgenev was eased right down to the finish which flattered the second, and looks to be something really special. Also, has some interesting entries.
Turgenev
Lil Rockerfeller
Neil King trained LIL ROCKERFELLER’s long awaited chasing debut came at Uttoxeter on Sunday, which got off to the best of starts. Third in a Stayers Hurdle, and a Glorious Goodwood win to his name, there was much expected for 7yo gelding, who was making his first appearance over the larger obstacles. He had a huge battle on his hands two out, as the gutsy Nicky Henderson trained Wenyerreadyfreddie was giving it his all, but Rockerfeller found a bit extra to prevail. Be interesting to see which route he now goes, could he be a potential Gold Cup horse? One thing is for sure – he will stay.
Mabs Cross
Away from the Arc de Triomphe, there was some other top group action at Paris Longchamp this weekend, and MABS CROSS got a deserved victory in the Prix de l’Abbaye. Having been touched off by the finest of margins in the Nunthorpe at York last month, Mabs Cross got up for Gerard Mosse and Michael Dods to beat Gold Vibe by a head. He also pounced on the once-more disappointing Battaash, who could only manage fourth this year and will surely be retired. Thoughts however are with Tom Eaves and Paul Mulrennan who both missed the ride through injury.