Kinross poised to vie for second consecutive victory in Champions Day
Emotional Scenes Predicted at Ascot as Kinross and Frankie Dettori Aim for Qipco British Champions Sprint Stakes
The upcoming race at Ascot on Saturday is expected to be filled with emotional moments if Kinross, ridden by the renowned jockey Frankie Dettori, manages to defend their title in the Qipco British Champions Sprint Stakes. The combination of Dettori and Ralph Beckett’s horse proved successful last year when they claimed victory in this prestigious event. Notably, it marked a double triumph for Dettori on Champions Day and secured an impressive four consecutive wins.
Kinross has maintained his consistent form throughout this season, showcasing notable victories at Goodwood and York during the summer months. However, he narrowly missed out on defending his Prix de la Foret crown earlier this month at ParisLongchamp. Now, owned by Marc Chan, Kinross will strive to regain his winning momentum while providing Frankie Dettori with one final grand success before the jockey transitions to riding in America.
“He’s flourishing; he’s in exceptional shape,” revealed Jamie McCalmont, racing manager for Chan. “We’re incredibly excited about Saturday’s race – it might just be Frankie’s best chance of success that day. The anticipation alone gives you butterflies in your stomach.”
Marc Chan and Lily also plan to attend the race personally, adding further excitement surrounding the event. McCalmont continued: “It’s a thrilling time for all of us. We might just need some tissues on Saturday; emotions will definitely run high.”
Another notable contender heading to Ascot on Saturday is Kinross’ stablemate, Angel Bleu. The four-year-old has been specially added to the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes with an investment of £70,000. Having recently triumphed in Goodwood’s Celebration Mile, this race will mark Angel Bleu’s final appearance before embarking on his new role as a stallion in France.
Nurlan Bizakov’s Sumbe operation will host Angel Bleu at stud, and together with Marc Chan as joint-owner, they look forward to bidding farewell to their horse at the racetrack. McCalmont commented: “This is Angel Bleu’s last race before he begins his luxurious lifestyle at Sumbe in France. As the ground conditions are favorable and he remains in good form, there is nothing holding him back now.”
“Being able to stand in France provides him with an incredible opportunity,” McCalmont continued enthusiastically. “French breeding is currently thriving following the success of horses like Wootton Bassett and Siyouni. Given that both of Angel Bleu’s Group One victories were achieved in France and he was bred and sold there too, we are thrilled that he has this chance to establish himself as a stallion within such a promising market.”