Dawn Approach overcomes Toronado in a thrilling encounter – Horseracing News
Dawn Approach edged Toronado after a thrilling battle in the St James's Palace Stakes (Group 1) at the Royal Ascot. Both runners ran brilliantly and it could have been anyone’s race in the end. However, the former of the two was
lucky enough to succeed by a shot head distance.
Despite failing to impress in the Investec Derby, Dawn Approach managed to grab the attention of the bookies and the punters. He was awarded the best odds for the all important contest but his camp was under immense pressure.
Although the favourite stallion had proved his fitness before entering the competition, it was clear that he was not going to be dominant over others. He went off to a steady start and then struggled a bit towards the middle section
of the race. However, a strong effort at the end helped him secure a victory in a photo-finish.
The winning trainer Jim Bolger quoted, “You take chances, sometimes they work and sometimes they don't. Sheikh Mohammed (owner) was a very willing risk-taker. He's [Dawn Approach] very tough and hard, he was fortunate to survive
the bump and the rest is history. I knew he wouldn't let me down.”
This was the eighth victory of Dawn Approach’s career and probably the toughest one. No one could have expected him to make a winning comeback this early, especially after being completely out of sorts in his run at Epsom.
On the other hand, Toronado was also making a comeback from his failure last month. He was defeated by the same stallion back then and was seeking revenge. Although he failed to do that, the result pleased his camp.
Talking about the runner up stallion, trainer Richard Hannon said, “He was unlucky. At least he's back. He's a very good horse, there's no doubt about it. It's a shame there was interference, otherwise I think we'd have got it.
We were knocked into the middle of the track, but it wasn't the winner's fault. But that's racing and we are not dead yet.”
The veteran trainer further revealed that Toronado will not be taking part in any race anytime soon, as he deserves some rest after a tough competition.
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