Isaac Shelby becomes a key factor in Lennox’s plans
Brian Meehan’s Isaac Shelby to Drop Back for Lennox Stakes at Goodwood
Rumblings in the horse racing world suggest that Brian Meehan’s talented colt, Isaac Shelby, may be making a strategic move by dropping back to seven furlongs for the upcoming World Pool Lennox Stakes at Goodwood.
Isaac Shelby has already proven his prowess over this distance, having triumphed twice at Group level. As a two-year-old, he claimed victory in the Superlative Stakes and recently made an impressive reappearance by winning the Greenham.
However, since returning to action at Newbury, he has been testing himself over longer distances of a mile. Although narrowly missing out on Classic honours in the French 2000 Guineas and finishing fourth behind Paddington in the St James’s Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot, Meehan believes it is time to refocus and secure another win for his charge.
Meehan commented enthusiastically about Isaac Shelby’s current form: “He’s in great shape! His recent workouts have been exceptional. Our sights are now set on possibly entering him into the prestigious Lennox Stakes.”
“While I do believe that eventually a mile will always suit him comfortably,” added Meehan contemplatively,”for now we need to prioritize getting another prize under his belt.”
This potential strategic move is also of great importance to the big-spending Wathnan Racing, who are eagerly awaiting their first victory since acquiring this talented colt.
Meanwhile, in the world of two-year-olds, Toca Madera is showing promise after his commendable third-place finish at Newmarket’s July Stakes. The son of Bated Breath failed to make an impact during the Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot but has bounced back with a strong performance that showcases his true abilities.
Meehan expressed his initial disappointment about Toca Madera’s underwhelming run at Ascot but quickly shifted focus: “However, I am pleased that he displayed his true capabilities at Newmarket. There is definitely room for further improvement.”
Toca Madera now has a potential opportunity to compete in the Markel Richmond Stakes on the Sussex Downs as part of the acclaimed Qatar Goodwood Festival. Alternatively, options such as participating in either the Gimcrack or Prix Morny are also being considered.
“Perhaps we will aim for the Richmond if it isn’t too soon,” suggested Meehan thoughtfully. “But we will certainly assess possibilities like competing in either York’s Gimcrack or Deauville’s Prix Morny.”