Our ‘European Youngsters’ are getting ready for their first race experiences, with Hampden being the first one to make his debut last Sunday.
Hampden was most impressive in his debut performance. Coming from the rear of the field early, he finished a strong 3rd in a run that showed he is a very exciting 2yo. His trainer, Tom Ward, now believes he can win this season before being campaigned towards quality races as a 3yo.
His jockey, David Propert, spoke highly of the gelding and said “He did everything I asked him to and responded well. He’s got a good mind on him, enjoys his work and will take a lot from this run. I don’t think there will be any problem in stepping up in distance in future.”
The son of Night Of Thunder is expected to only improve going into his 3yo season.
Also part of the initial Eurolink group is Lennox, a handsome 2yo colt with plenty of quality. He’s a straightforward, good-moving 2yo that will continue to develop into next year.
He is trained by recent Royal Ascot winning trainer, Harry Eustace, who recently commented “He’s really come along with his recent step up in work and is growing in confidence all the time. I’ve very happy with where he’s at at the moment.”
He’s currently completing his fast work in preparation for a race debut in a few weeks’ time.
Likewise, yet to race are 2yo filly Tournelle and 2yo colt Pont Neuf. Due to a set back in Pont Neuf’s preparation, he will require a longer period of rest before he can restart his training and work towards a race debut early next year.
However, Tournelle has been set up for her first race in the upcoming weeks and is in good order. She has continued to please through the back half of the season with George Boughey, who is very happy with the daughter of Sea The Moon.
“She looks forward and mature enough to think she can perform well at two but I think we will see the best of her as a three-year old and beyond.” said Boughey.
Connections have some exciting times and long nights ahead as we look forward to each of their debuts!