Lorne, named after the beautiful Victorian seaside town, leads the charge for seven days of busy racing for OTI’s European team. Following on from staying up for the Ashes series, many owners will now have their horses to keep them awake during late hours – and given the optimism of their trainers, they may find the late hours more enjoyable.
At 2am tomorrow morning (Friday), Lorne will try to follow her last start win with another over the 2500m journey in Deauville. Although better on a firmer surface, she is likely to start one of the favoured horses in the valuable handicap.
Later on Friday, 11.25pm, Docklands meets a strong field in the 1600m Group 3 at Glorious Goodwood. An impressive winner at Royal Ascot, a placing here may justify a trip to Australia for the spring with his trainer Harry Eustace. Unlike Lorne, he should relish the soft conditions.
For the nightowls at 3.55am on Saturday morning, Ragosina will tackle a 2400m Fillies Handicap at Newmarket under the guidance of James Ferguson. Also the winner of her last start, this filly looks poised to put two on end provided she takes another step forward.
Later on Saturday, in Deauville at 11.50pm, Sevenna’s Knight has his first start for OTI owners in a Listed race over 2800m. Andre Fabre (and owners) has high hopes for this stunning Camelot 3yo as he builds his reputation as a top stayer.
So, with each of the four runners being last start winners, owners have every right to be excited!
And there’s more. Early next week, Kloster and Everything Counts will also feature in Deauville.
Best of luck to all connections!