Bonfire’s temperament a cause for concern as the Investec Derby inches closer
It seems that Bonfire’s temperament is being questioned, and some eyebrows have been raised over it but rider Jimmy Fortune clears all misconceptions, stating that he will withstand the commotion in the noisy environment, and make it through the race
without getting upset.
This issue is being raised after being included in the Investec Derby at Epsom on 2nd June, 2012.
The jockey stated:
"People have gone on about this horse's temperament. He is a Jack the lad - he likes to do things his own way - but no way does he worry or get upset. He is very genuine and he is actually a very easy ride when he is going.”
The son of Manduro, out of mare Night Frolic, landed an impressive victory in the Group 2 Betfred Dante Stakes at York on 17th May, 2012, where he narrowly gained a ¾ of a length lead over the Roger Varian trained, Ektihaam.
The Highclere Thoroughbred Racing-Pocahontas owned runner has competed in three starts over the course of his short career, scored twice and once finished third.
It has been stated time and time again that the three-year-old can be difficult to handle on the gallops, and it is speculated that Balding will request permission to let companion Ispahan go to the stalls with him to make him feel relaxed before the
race.
Jimmy Fortune also rode the young runner in the Group 1 Criterium International at Saint-Cloud in October, 2011, where he performed well and finished third.
The jockey commented that Aiden O’Brien trained, Imperial Monarch, is the one to beat in this race as he impressed the jockey with his victory at Sandown, where he competed in the bet365 Classic Trial and claimed the victory, 1 ¾ lengths over, Thought
Worthy.
Andrew Balding also has the option of running, Minimise Risk, in this race and if he competes, he will ride with jockey, Jamie Spencer.
Jimmy Fortune took the three-year-old on a work-out and said that he was in good form, but he is still likely to finish behind Bonfire.
Bonfire and Minimise Risk will be up against Camelot who recently won the Qipco 2,000 Guineas Stakes at Newmarket.
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