Insights from James Ferguson on his Horses Competing at the Royal Ascot
The Legends Set to Rule Royal Ascot
As the excitement builds up for one of the most prestigious events in horse racing, all eyes are on James Ferguson’s small but mighty team. The Newmarket handler has carefully selected his top contenders – Canberra Legend and Deauville Legend – who look set to lead his team into battle at Royal Ascot next week.
Canberra Legend made a powerful impression after winning the Feilden Stakes at Newmarket earlier this year. With impressive strides and an unwavering spirit, he had Classic aspirations following his victory. Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be as he experienced a disappointing run in last month’s Dante at York which led to connections deciding against a tilt at Derby glory.
However, Canberra Legend is now back with a vengeance and raring to go. He will be taking part in the King Edward VII Stakes where he will have another opportunity to showcase his talents on an international stage.
“From the minute he went down to the start, I think we knew it was not going to be his day and we move on,” said Ferguson about Canberra Legend’s previous performance. “We’ve taken him for an away-day at Chelmsford and he’s shown me all the right signs that we’ve got him back.”
In addition, Deauville Legend is also gearing up for what looks like a strong renewal of the Hardwicke Stakes. After narrowly missing out on victory in last year’s King George V stakes, Deauville went on to win both Bahrain Trophy at Newmarket and Great Voltigeur at York before finishing fourth in Melbourne Cup.
Despite his international travel, Deauville Legend is in good shape and has been patiently prepared for this moment. “We’ve been very patient with him,” said Ferguson, “He lost nothing in defeat and the way he won the Voltigeur shows that from the older horse category over a mile and a half, he’s one of the best around.”
In addition to these two legends, Ferguson’s Ascot squad also includes impressive Doncaster handicap winner Wonder Legend who will be competing at King George V Stakes.
“You’ve got to have a Group horse to win these handicaps,” explained Ferguson as he expressed confidence about Wonder Legend’s chances. “I’d like to think he’s better than his mark and can go on to bigger and better things after this race.”
Ferguson also considers his Greenham Stakes fourth Zoology as a serious contender for Jersey stakes.
“Zoology ran…,” exclaimed an excited Ferguson before adding another layer of complexity by saying “…a fantastic race!”