The ever-growing Wathnan Racing look destined to play another prominent role in the winners enclosure at Royal Ascot this week as racing adviser Richard Brown discussed their string.
Their rapid rise to success saw them land five winners at the Royal meeting last season. That ensured he finished on a par with Coolmore’s tally. A blend of familiar faces and fresh artillery will attempt to better that excellent success.
Speaking to the Press Association, via At The Races, Richard Brown said: “There’s obviously a few nerves and jitters ahead of what is always a big week. But I think we’ve got a good team. I hope we’re improving the team every year and it’s amazing how few big days a horse will give you. We’ve got some horses who have been in the team a long time and some that are new to the team. It’s a blend of both and I think you need that at the meeting to be successful.”
One of those familiar faces is Night Raider, who was down the field at this meeting last year. The son of Dark Angel has generally struggled to get competitive on turf, often going gung-ho from the off. That was until he was gelded in the winter and returned with a career-best effort at Newmarket, comfortably making all. He proved that was no fluke when coming from rear to land the Temple Stakes, suggesting he’s not one dimensional. Brown is hoping Night Raider can step up in Lazzat’s absence.
“I’ve always been a massive fan of his. I think he’s taken his form to a new level this year and so far has done nothing wrong.”
Damysus on a comeback mission
Brown is also hoping Damysus can bounce back from his Lockinge effort, as he noted: “Things are going to have to be different for him and he’s going to have to improve again. But I think the stiff mile at Ascot will suit him better than the mile at Newbury
Of the new additions, he stated: “We’re still needing to decide where to go with The Prettiest Star. James has ridden her work recently and was very taken by her. We’ve got a very nice filly on our hands.
“Another of our new signings, Lost Boys obviously has very good form in the book and won the London Gold Cup having found trouble late on but still found a way which is a trait I always like. He’s progressive and lightly raced and has a lot going for him. You’ll need a lot of luck in the Golden Gates. But he looks nicely weighted to go and hopefully run a big race.”
On the Queen Mary runners, Brown said: “Wild Blossom was visually very taking and I think this is the race we have one of our stronger hands as we will also run Alta Regina and Cosmic Mystery.”