Best Terms uncertain for Darling Stakes: Claims trainer
Best Terms, the three-year-old bay filly, is unlikely to participate in the high-voltage race of Dubai Duty Free Stakes also known as The Fred Darling Stakes if the Newbury ground proves to be soft after inspection, claims her trainer, Richard Hannon, who
is also set to field his another pupil, Bronterre, in Aon Greenham Stakes on the same day (Saturday, April 21) at the same track.
As per the initial reports by the course clerk, it is expected that the ground will be fairly soft which, according to Hannon, does not suit to the filly. However, he will announce the final decision after personally making an inspection by the night of
Friday.
The legendary trainer wrote on his website, “Will Edmeades, racing manager tothe Barnetts who own Best Terms, has always been for going straight for the Guineas so if we are not happy with the ground we will wait for Newmarket.”
He further stated, “We think that she will stay the seven and she switches off at home, which is encouraging, but we won't know about the mile until we get to Newmarket."
Best Terms looks to be the hot favourite runner for the Darling Stakes that has received total 9 entries. The Class 1 contest over a distance of 7 furlongs is offering £31,191 of prize money.
The brilliant filly started her career on April 18, 2011 and marvellously finished first each in the first four races of her career till August 18. The R. Barnett-owned sprinter grabbed 5th spot in her last outing on September 24.
Considering the filly’s epic track record, Hannon does not want to run her at such a track as may harm her stamina and skills. He is keen not to take any risk in this regard.
However, Bronterre’s entry in Greenham Stakes is confirmed as the talented colt loves to run over soft courses like that of Newbury.
Bronterre bagged a couple of consecutive triumphs on July 9 and September 10, 2011. He moved ahead to finish 4th in the third and last outing of his career on October 8. He is set to compete against half a dozen runners tomorrow.
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