Distant Storm Shines In Tattersalls Stakes At Newmarket

Distant Storm's commanding win at Newmarket

At the prestigious Newmarket racecourse, Distant Storm, ridden by William Buick, delivered a stunning performance in the Group 3 Tattersalls Stakes. After a disappointing third at York’s Acomb Stakes, this Charlie Appleby-trained colt demonstrated his true class by cruising to a convincing victory, reigniting hopes for his future in top-level racing.

Purchased for €1.9 million as a breeze-up, Distant Storm had already impressed on debut, defeating Constitution River who later won a Group Two race. However, the step up to York was a different story, where he pulled hard and faded to third behind Gewan. This time, Buick employed a more patient strategy, settling Distant Storm at the rear of the field before making a bold move into the dip.

How William Buick's tactics made the difference

Buick’s decision to hold Distant Storm back early allowed the colt to conserve energy and accelerate powerfully when it mattered. As the field approached the finish, Distant Storm effortlessly overtook his stablemate Catallus and pulled away to win by nearly five lengths. Commander's Intent finished strongly to claim second, but the margin and style of victory underlined Distant Storm’s star potential.

Appleby reflected on the race, admitting that the previous defeat was due to the colt being too eager early on. He praised Buick’s handling at Newmarket, saying, “William was keen to get a pitch on him and he was keen, which I'd only seen once before... Today, we saw the acceleration that he showed.”

Looking ahead: The Dewhurst Stakes and beyond

With the Dewhurst Stakes just over two weeks away, Appleby is considering targeting the prestigious two-year-old contest. Despite Distant Storm’s age technically being three, his current form suggests he could take on the best juveniles in the country. Appleby noted the strong competition, mentioning Zavateri as a likely Dewhurst challenger, but remains optimistic about Distant Storm's chances if the ground conditions suit.

This strategic decision will be closely followed by racing enthusiasts and pundits, as victory in the Dewhurst often signals a leading contender for classic races the following year.

Maltese Cross impresses with maiden victory

On the same card, Maltese Cross, trained by William Haggas and ridden by Tom Marquand, secured a narrow victory in the Hunters Prestige British EBF Maiden Stakes. After finishing second on debut at Ascot, Maltese Cross justified favouritism by battling to win by a head over Charlie Appleby’s Del Maro.

Haggas praised the colt’s staying power, highlighting his likely preference for longer distances in the future. “He wants a mile and a half, but I’m never keen to run them over too far at two,” he said. This measured approach aims to allow Maltese Cross to mature and develop, with spring targets in mind.

Big Song confirms promise with nursery success

Big Song, trained by Harry Charlton, emerged as a winner in the Federation Of Bloodstock Agents Nursery, reinforcing his potential after a promising start to the season. Despite a poor run at Thirsk blamed on slipping, he bounced back with a decisive victory over a mile at odds of 9-1.

Philip Robinson, racing manager for owner Mohammed Jaber, noted the colt’s improved performance and stamina, adding that decisions about his future, including potential sale at auction, are forthcoming.

Arabian Leopard shines in fillies’ handicap

David Simcock’s Arabian Leopard powered to victory in the British Stallion Studs EBF Premier Fillies' Handicap over six furlongs. The consistent filly, placed in four of five starts this season, showed she handles the slightly longer trip well. Simcock emphasised the challenge of finding suitable races for her but celebrated the win as a fitting end to the season.

Conclusion: Promising prospects at Newmarket and beyond

The Tattersalls Stakes and the Cambridgeshire meeting highlighted several exciting young horses with potential to impact the upcoming flat racing season. Distant Storm’s dominant performance at Newmarket marks him as one to watch, especially with the Dewhurst Stakes looming. Meanwhile, Maltese Cross, Big Song, and Arabian Leopard all showed encouraging signs that could see them develop into key contenders next year.

For those interested in broader sporting insights and updates, England sport highlights key moments and insights offer valuable perspectives on current developments across UK sports.

Keeping an eye on these emerging talents and understanding their progress provides a fascinating window into the future of British flat racing.