Albeit predominantly known for his National Hunt exploits, one of Alan King’s most successful horses was three-time flat Group 1 winner Trueshan. The gallant stayer was sadly fatally injured at Goodwood last season, but Alan King will now be hoping Daiquiri Bay can be every inch as good.
The son of New Bay ran consistently well in defeat in some top level handicaps last season. Returning from a gelding operation and a layoff, he took a 0-105 Newmarket handicap in good fashion.
He defeated Gamrai again next time out in the Copper Horse Stakes at Ascot, demonstrating versatility by coming from rear. Given 67 days to freshen up, he was delivered with aplomb by Rossa Ryan to land the coveted York Handicap.
Despite having gained automatic entry to the Melbourne Cup, Alan King suggested connections are keen to stay local. Speaking to Nick Luck on Luck On Sunday, via Racing TV, Alan King said: “I don’t think he will be going to Melbourne this year. His owners aren’t keen and it’s not all it’s cracked up to be, maybe in a years’ time.
“If he keeps progressing, he might make up into a ‘Cup Horse’. He is in the Group One at Ascot which would be a very strong target. But ‘Cup’ races next year would be far more exciting for me than going all the way round the world. I’m not a great traveller!
“Two miles will suit, I’m not sure about further, but he switches off better this year. Once he is in mid division he relaxes and gives himself a chance to win races.
Trueshan was a three time winner of the Long Distance Cup that Daquiri Bay is entered in on Champions Day. King continued: “He’s got a bit to do yet but Trueshan was very ground dependent. I wouldn’t want to keep running him on fast ground. But he broke the track record at Ascot on it and he gives us lots of options.”
“It was special” – Alan King
It was a first Ebor for Alan King, who paid tribute to his rider Rossa Ryan. “We had few beers,”continued King. “The horse got home about 10:30pm and ate his dinner in about 10 mins – he’s turned out well today. The Ebor is one of the great races and we’ve always run a few in it. It was special. We haven’t got the firepower we had a few years ago.
“Rossa’s family have become great friends of ours, and he’s in three or four times a month to work. He comes to the sales, too. After Ascot he said “give him a break and then the Ebor.” It’s great it’s worked out for him and that he got off the ban.”
King, who stated his yard is “60/40 jumps and Flat”, suggested Daiquiri Bay is highly unlikely to go jumping, but is certainly on the search for his next Edwardstone.