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    10 September 2023

    Perspective from Those Involved: Insights on the Flying Five Stakes

    The Return of Highfield Princess: Can She Reclaim Her Sprinting Crown?

    This Sunday at the Curragh, all eyes will be on Highfield Princess as she defends her title in the Al Basti Equiworld, Dubai Flying Five Stakes. The six-year-old speedster, trained by John Quinn, made history last year with a sensational Group One hat-trick that culminated in a dominant victory in this very race.

    However, this season has presented more challenges for Highfield Princess. While still being a strong contender in major sprinting competitions, success has proven elusive. Her only triumph came at the Qatar Goodwood Festival where she clinched a Group Two victory. Despite placing well in two outings at Royal Ascot and finishing runner-up to surprise Nunthorpe winner Live In The Dream at York, securing wins has been tougher.

    Nevertheless, connections remain hopeful that their star mare will shine once again on Irish soil. Archie Watson’s King’s Stand winner Bradsell is expected to provide tough competition yet again after frequently crossing paths with Highfield Princess throughout the season.

    “We’re looking forward to it and she’s come out of York well,” said Quinn optimistically. “It’s a tough race and Bradsell is in it… Then there’s Tim Easterby’s horse (Art Power) who is absolutely dynamite at the Curragh.”

    But one horse who holds no qualms about returning to Ireland for another venture is Art Power himself. This six-year-old has an impeccable record at the Curragh, with four of his eight victories coming at this very track. Having showcased his dominance twice already this season, Art Power now seeks to add a coveted Group One success to his impressive resume.

    “He seems to have a bit of a love affair with Ireland… He has often been a length short in Group Ones over here and we’re looking forward to seeing him,” said Alastair Donald, racing manager for owners King Power Racing.

    Adding an international flavor to the contest is Yann Barberot’s French raider Bouttemont, ridden by the in-form Dylan Browne McMonagle. Meanwhile, British visitors Charlie Hills’ Equality and Clive Cox’s Get Ahead bring their own form into play after finishing sixth and eighth respectively in the Nunthorpe.

    Although there are other contenders in the race, it appears that Highfield Princess, Bradsell, and Art Power will be battling it out for supremacy. With her past success on Irish turf and formidable opponents standing against her, Highfield Princess faces an exhilarating challenge that could define her reign as queen of sprinting once again.

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