James Doyle confirmed as rider for Diego Velazquez Trophy challenge

James Doyle Set to Ride Diego Velazquez in the Futurity Trophy at Doncaster

In an exciting development, James Doyle has been confirmed as the jockey for the highly anticipated Kameko Futurity Trophy favourite, Diego Velazquez. The race is set to take place at Doncaster on Saturday.

Trained by the renowned Aidan O’Brien, who boasts an impressive track record in Group One races at Town Moor, Diego Velazquez is one of eleven possible contenders for this prestigious event. O’Brien himself has won the race a staggering eleven times and looks to secure his third consecutive victory following wins with Luxembourg (2021) and Auguste Rodin last year. Additionally, he also has Battle Cry, Chief Little Rock, Capulet and Henry Adams among his entries.

This season has seen Doyle collaborate with O’Brien’s Warm Heart to achieve a Group One double triumph in both the Yorkshire Oaks and Prix Vermeille. Highlighting their confidence in Diego Velazquez’s potential success, O’Brien expressed satisfaction with the horse since its previous run and revealed that securing Doyle as his rider further strengthens their prospects. Another horse from O’Brien’s stable will likely participate alongside Diego Velazquez in what promises to be an exhilarating race.

Ancient Wisdom Supplement Added by Charlie Appleby and Godolphin

In line with expectations after impressively winning the Autumn Stakes recently, Ancient Wisdom has been supplemented into this esteemed competition by trainer Charlie Appleby on behalf of Godolphin. The horse’s pleasing performance during a weekend workout has solidified their decision.

Appleby expressed confidence in Ancient Wisdom as a strong contender, especially given the anticipated soft ground conditions at Doncaster. This additional factor bolsters their belief that Ancient Wisdom will make an impact on the race.

Dancing Gemini: Roger Teal’s Underdog Ready to Take On the Big Guns

Roger Teal, trainer of Dancing Gemini, eagerly awaits the challenge ahead as his young and promising horse prepares to compete against formidable rivals. Having secured victory in a Newbury maiden race and impressively winning the Listed Flying Scotsman Stakes at Town Moor, Dancing Gemini seems ready for this next-level showdown.

Teal believes that Dancing Gemini’s ability to maintain momentum over seven furlongs indicates they can handle the increase in distance to one mile. Notably, in both previous victories, there were signs that Dancing Gemini was only getting started towards the end of races.

Dancing Gemini’s adaptability to soft ground is also seen as an advantage due to testing conditions experienced last month at Doncaster. However, with unpredictable weather forecasts suggesting potential heavy ground on race day, this presents an unknown variable for all participants.

Despite acknowledging the challenges posed by such esteemed competitors, including Diego Velazquez and Ancient Wisdom among others, Teal remains optimistic about Dancing Gemini’s chances. Embracing an underdog mentality while maintaining determination gives them hope for success in what promises to be a thrilling event.

Potential Contenders from John and Thady Gosden Stable

The dynamic father-son duo of John and Thady Gosden could potentially field God’s Window for this prestigious race. A course and distance maiden winner on soft ground previously, God’s Window showcased its ability by defeating Redhot Whisper, trained by Ben Brookhouse.

While David Menuisier seeks to build on Sunway’s Group One triumph in France, Devil’s Point will represent his stable. Additionally, the Owen Burrows-trained Deira Mile could make a remarkable debut after being transferred from Charlie Johnston’s yard.