Harbour Watch to make a comeback in the John Sunley Criterion Stakes at Newmarket
Harbour Watch’s stamina will be tested in the John Sunley Criterion Stakes at Newmarket on 30th June, 2012, but with a hat-trick tucked safely under his belt, the bay colt is expected to exceed expectations and continue his
winning streak.
The son of Acclamation, out of mare Gorband, demonstrated immense potential in the past, but faced a setback, and blended into the background after his victory in July, 2011. Due to this, the runner will not compete at Royal Ascot, since trainer Richard
Hannon believes he isn’t in the best possible form and it would be tough on the runner.
He stated:
"It would have been too much to ask to bring him back in a Group One and why run with a penalty in the Jersey, so it would make more sense to skip Royal Ascot altogether and take advantage of an extra 10 days and go instead for the Criterion, in which
he gets no penalty.”
The young runner has been practicing and Hannon has been taking him through work-outs - which have been rather satisfying for the conditioner.
Regarding this, the trainer stated:
"He did a nice breeze up the grass with Kieren O'Neill aboard, and he is moving like his old self."
Richard Hannon believes that the July course will work in Harbour Watch’s favour, and it will be great for a comeback race, since he is returning to races after a year.
Chances are that, Harbour Watch, will compete in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood, where Sir Henry Cecil’s undefeated Frankel might run.
Goodwood might be lucky for the H. Robin Heffer and Qatar Bloodstock owned runner, since he aced the Group 2 Tanqueray Richmond Stakes there on 29th
July, 2011, where he raced as the evening’s favourite and defeated the Mark Johnston trained, Bannock, by 2 ¼ lengths.
The connections of this runner have been patient with him, and do not want to rush him. His form has been improving and he is building his strength for his comeback race.
He stated:
“I have been really pleased with him this last month or so."
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