Burdett Road achieves remarkable triumph
Royal Ascot Winner Burdett Road Triumphs in JCB Triumph Trial Juvenile Hurdle
In a captivating display of athleticism, Burdett Road, the winner of Royal Ascot, has set an early standard for the highly anticipated Triumph Hurdle. Under the guidance of emerging trainer James Owen and previously handled by Michael Bell on flat races, this promising horse showcased its talent once again by clinching victory in the JCB Triumph Trial Juvenile Hurdle.
After triumphing in the Golden Gates Stakes over 10 furlongs back in June under Michael Bell’s tutelage, Burdett Road demonstrated commendable performance in a couple of Group Three races. The Gredley Family-owned colt was then entrusted to James Owen for a hurdling campaign.
Burdett Road effortlessly opened its account at Huntingdon but faced a significantly higher level of competition at Cheltenham. Pitted against six other previous winners and formidable contender Milan Tino from France, questions loomed large over its potential.
The race unfolded with chaotic scenes as Parish Star caused mayhem at the first flight. However, Harry Cobden expertly guided Burdett Road through the carnage unscathed. When An Bradan Feasa slipped turning into a corner, leaving all other competitors behind Cobden wisely held his ground until approaching the final hurdle.
Despite stumbling slightly before meeting the last obstacle on solid footing, Burdett Road had ample reserves left to accelerate up towards victory with remarkable ease and secured an impressive win by an astounding margin of six and a half lengths.
“When he won at Huntingdon, he was full of energy and did everything incorrectly,” said Owen. “Today, we had two choices – either lead the race or drop him back. We collectively decided to drop him back, and Harry has ridden him with remarkable composure. He has undoubtedly learned a lot throughout this journey.
“With the rain pouring down last night, I was incredibly nervous this morning. However, in spite of his flat racing background, Burdett Road proved his resilience on testing ground and conquered that uphill stretch magnificently.”
Owen continued with excitement in his voice, “He is an exceptional horse who shows great promise for future endeavors. This triumph serves as a triumphant trial towards our ultimate goal – the Triumph Hurdle. On good ground conditions, he will be truly exhilarating to watch. We may consider Chepstow or the Adonis as potential next races.”
Cobden shared his insights on their strategy saying: “James gave me complete freedom to make decisions during the race, so we opted to hold Burdett Road back since he displayed excessive exuberance at Huntingdon. If he aims to become an outstanding competitor, it is crucial for him to learn proper racing discipline. Undoubtedly, he possesses incredible class.”
Reflecting on some hurdles missed along the way and managing Burdett Road’s enthusiasm expertly during the race day Cobden further added: “He is undeniably a talented horse destined for greatness come March.”
Pleased with how things transpired during such a thrilling venture Cobden humorously remarked: “I still had plenty left in me even while coming down that hill; it felt like being Paul Townend! It was extremely satisfying; Burdett Road showcased incredible jumping skills nearing the finish line and accelerated admirably once prompted.”
Assessing other competition challenges, Cobden concluded with a nod to his trainer: “Paul Nicholls has other fine juvenile contenders, but none can match the caliber of Burdett Road.”