Multiple contenders for the Classics at Epsom were put through their paces on Tuesday. All of Ancient Egypt, Balzac and Legacy Link galloped across the downs in preparation for their runs in either the Oaks or the Derby.
David Egan was partnering the first-named on the Epsom Downs for Charlie Johnston. Egan has previously been aboard a Derby runner-up in Mojo Star. That horse like Ancient Egypt, was owned by Amo Racing. Egan had complimentary words for his mount after the gallop.
“He has a very big stride,” Egan said to Thoroughbred Daily News. “I let him use it down the hill, not racing pace, but let him go a nice gallop down the hill to make him know he was here. I thought he ticked every box we needed and blew off very quick afterwards.
“He’s run at Beverley and the likes, and he’s been down the Dip at Newmarket. All that will help him to have in his locker for what’s going to be a very competitive race. We’ve got a lovely individual who’s really taken it all in. He’s a very clever horse with a great mind and if any of the horses are getting worked up, I’ll know it’ll not be him on race day.”
“She had a nice look at the place” – John Gosden on Legacy Link
John Gosden is no stranger to Epsom Classic success. He has won six of them, with two Derbies and four Oaks’ to his name, including in 2023 with Soul Sister. Legacy Link bids to become the latest Epsom champion for Clarehaven.
The gallop evidently fulfilled their purpose: “We thought when she ran well in the Fillies’ Mile last year at Newmarket and we thought if we’ve got an Oaks filly, it’s her. So hopefully we’ll be there on the day.
“That was good today, perfect and she had a nice look at the place. She went up to the top of the old mile, 110 yards start. She went a half-speed down the hill, got on the correct lead into the straight and picked up well.
“The key thing of coming here is sorting their feet out. I learned that a long time ago. I came with three horses in 1977 from Ballydoyle and I was told to go out the day before the race and canter them down the hill,” he recalled.
“It was The Minstrel, Valinsky and Be My Guest. All running in the Derby. So I thought if Vincent O’Brien believed it, it’s a good thing.”