Insights from those closely associated with the King George Stakes
Highfield Princess Confident for King George Qatar Stakes at Goodwood
John Quinn is filled with confidence as his triple Group One-winning mare, Highfield Princess, prepares to race in the highly anticipated King George Qatar Stakes at Goodwood on Friday. Despite concerns about ground conditions, Quinn remains optimistic that his star sprinter will excel in what appears to be a golden opportunity.
The rise of Highfield Princess has been nothing short of extraordinary. Trained by the skilled hands of North Yorkshire-based Quinn, she started her career as a 57-rated handicapper and quickly climbed the ranks to claim victory in three top-class sprints last summer. Her talent was further showcased when she narrowly missed out on triumph at the Breeders’ Cup in Keeneland.
Following an impressive half-length runner-up performance at York, Highfield Princess embarked on two races within four days at Royal Ascot. She came agonizingly close to victory in both the King’s Stand and Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes. Now dropping back a furlong, Quinn believes that this adjustment will allow Highfield Princess to capitalize on this exceptional opportunity.
“We’re delighted with her form,” expressed trainer John Quinn from his Malton base. “While we cannot predict what the ground conditions will be like come Friday, we have no doubt that it won’t hinder her performance – she has proven herself on soft ground before.”
In addition to Highfield Princess’ chances, Karl Burke adds another layer of excitement by saddling both Silky Wilkie and White Lavender for the race. Silky Wilkie displayed tremendous potential as he finished runner-up behind Nymphadora in York’s City Walls event. On the other hand, White Lavender made an impact with a tight-neck second place finish in Prix de l’Abbaye at ParisLongchamp in October.
Burke acknowledges the risk involved with Silky Wilkie’s participation but remains optimistic about his chances. “Silky Wilkie has consistently surpassed our expectations throughout his career,” Burke explained. “We never anticipated him reaching such heights, but he fully deserves this opportunity to compete at a higher level.”
White Lavender, a high-class sprinter who previously proved her mettle in the Abbaye, disappointed herself during her last outing at the Sapphire Stakes in the Curragh. However, Burke believes that her early keenness and subsequent failure to finish strongly were mere outliers and can confidently be disregarded.
Charlie Hills, known for his previous successes in this race with Battaash and Khaadem, is back again with two contenders – Equality and Equilateral. Equality seeks an impressive hat-trick after emerging victorious in the Coral Charge at Sandown Park on their latest outing.
Makarova also displays great potential following a close finish behind Equality at Sandown. Trainer Ed Walker emphasizes her improvement since dropping down to five furlongs as she continues to adapt to sprinting over shorter distances.
A Thrilling Contest Awaits
The King George Qatar Stakes promises an enthralling contest as Highfield Princess seeks redemption amidst strong competition. With trainers like John Quinn, Karl Burke, and Charlie Hills bringing their top-performing horses into battle on Goodwood’s hallowed turf, fans are eagerly anticipating a spectacle filled with speed and determination.
As Friday approaches, uncertainty looms over ground conditions while excitement builds within horse racing circles worldwide. Will Highfield Princess rise above adversity and secure victory? Can other talented runners like Silky Wilkie or White Lavender steal the spotlight?
All eyes will be on Goodwood as these incredible athletes thunder down the track, pushing their limits in pursuit of glory. The King George Qatar Stakes is set to deliver a thrilling display of athleticism and determination, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.