Insights from Those Involved: Nassau Stakes

Blue Rose Cen Set for Qatar Nassau Stakes at Goodwood

In what promises to be an exhilarating showdown, trainer Christopher Head is eagerly anticipating the clash between his star filly, Blue Rose Cen, and the formidable Nashwa in the highly anticipated Qatar Nassau Stakes at Goodwood.

Unbeaten in her three starts this season, Blue Rose Cen has already achieved remarkable success. She claimed victory in both the Poule d’Essai des Pouliches (French 1000 Guineas) and Prix de Diane (French Oaks), showcasing her dominance over extended distances with a four-length triumph at Chantilly.

Last year, she showcased her talent by winning multiple races, including the prestigious Prix Marcel Boussac. This exceptional record earned her the title of French champion two-year-old.

A New Challenge Awaits on International Debut

As Blue Rose Cen gears up for her international debut against older competitors, Head expresses his excitement about testing her abilities on a renowned track like Goodwood. The fond memories of Solow’s triumph in the Sussex Stakes only add to his anticipation.

“Everything is all right – all lights are green,” said Head confidently. “She has had a brilliant preparation and we are very happy with her. We can’t wait to get to Goodwood races.”

The trainer holds Blue Rose Cen in high regard, describing her as the “filly of my life.” He considers himself fortunate to have the opportunity to train such a remarkable horse.

“It has been a tremendous season with her, and we can’t wait to see what she is capable of doing at the Goodwood track,” Head added eagerly.

A Legacy Continued: The Fifth Generation

Christopher Head continues his family’s rich legacy in the thoroughbred business. Son of champion-jockey-turned-trainer Freddy Head and grandson of French racing royalty Alec Head, he comes from a long line of equestrian excellence.

Although this will be his first runner at Goodwood’s undulating circuit, Christopher is well-acquainted with British racing. He looks forward to witnessing Blue Rose Cen’s ascent in the sport.

“It has been a very nice run, and I think it is a very tactical racetrack – truly an interesting one,” Christopher muses. “I can’t wait to experience it firsthand because there is such an incredible atmosphere at races in the UK.”

Adapting Well to Rain-Soaked Ground

The rain-soaked ground holds no fears for Blue Rose Cen or her trainer. Having encountered various tracks throughout her career, she has proven herself adaptable under different conditions.

“The ground should not be any issue for her,” assures Christopher confidently. “She has already demonstrated her versatility on different tracks.”

Unleashing Her Potential: A Staying Project

While initially considered suited for 10-furlong races based on pedigree analysis, Christopher is open to exploring further distances with Blue Rose Cen.

“We will need to observe how she performs over time, but there is a growing interest in testing her staying capacity, such as in the Vermeille,” Christopher reveals. “We don’t want to limit her potential – she seems capable of anything!”

The Competition: Nashwa and Other Fierce Contenders

Blue Rose Cen faces tough competition from five other fillies, including last year’s Qatar Nassau Stakes winner Nashwa.

Trained by John and Thady Gosden and ridden by Hollie Doyle for her first Classic success in the Prix de Diane, Nashwa poses a significant threat. With superior official ratings, she will be conceding 8lb to Blue Rose Cen due to weight-for-age regulations.

Nashwa’s racing manager Teddy Grimthorpe believes that now that she has found her form, she is more than ready for the challenge. “She’s in good form,” he affirms confidently.

Intriguingly, Nashwa struggled initially this season but bounced back with an impressive victory in the Group One Falmouth at Newmarket. Her remarkable five-length triumph reaffirmed her capabilities over a mile distance.