Shadwell and Owen Burrows were dealt a blow as their Classic Trial winner Raaheeb returned stiff after Sandown. The beautifully-bred son of Sea The Stars, a full brother to Baaeed and Hukum, was a comfortable winner at Ascot on debut last season.
Raaheeb returned to action at Sandown last weekend in the Classic Trial, producing a smart performance. Breaking well toward the inside, he settled well under Rossa Ryan in midfield before moving up to sit third. Winding Stream set an honest gallop to the head of affairs, but was collared by the field three out. Raaheeb took the lead two furlongs out and displayed a smart turn of foot to put the race to bed.
The Dante Stakes was mentioned as the next step. However, a small setback has led to connections missing the Derby altogether.
Angus Gold stated, in a post on Shadwell’s X account, that: “I have had a long discussion with Owen Burrows regarding Raaheeb’s participation in the Derby after his impressive victory at Sandown.
“Owen said that the horse had been stiff for a couple of days following the race. But whilst routine x-rays have revealed nothing untoward, he will have to give the horse a bit more time to get over the race before he goes back into full training.
“Consequently, Owen feels he will not be able to have him in peak condition for the Derby. Therefore, sadly, the decision has been made to bypass Epsom and give Raaheeb the time he needs. We hope to have him ready for important targets later this summer.”
Aidan O’Brien set to dominate Derby once more
The news is a huge blow for Owen Burrows, who is yet to train a Classic winner. Burrows is familiar with Raaheeb’s family, as he trained his brother Hukum to Group 1 success twice. Victory in the King George at Ascot was the pinnacle.
The news now sees five Aidan O’Brien trained horses ahead of the next British one in the market. Charlie Appleby’s King’s Trail leads the way, whose credentials will be tested in the 2000 Guineas this week.
Benvenuto Cellini continues to head the market for Aidan O’Brien. He is likely to run in the Chester Vase next week, won by the subsequent Derby winner Lambourn last season.
Pierre Bonnard drifted after a disappointing reappearance in the Ballysax. That race was still won by stablemate Christmas Day who was swiftly chopped in the betting.