Quotes from the Trainer on the Yorkshire Oaks
Yorkshire Oaks: Savethelastdance and Bluestocking Prepare for a Thrilling Rematch
The upcoming Pertemps Network Yorkshire Oaks at York on Thursday promises an exhilarating showdown between two formidable fillies – Savethelastdance and Bluestocking.
In their previous encounter during the Irish Oaks, these two competitors delivered an electrifying contest that had fans on the edge of their seats. Second to Soul Sister at Epsom, Aidan O’Brien’s Savethelastdance redeemed herself with a spectacular Classic victory at the Curragh. However, it was far from certain she would claim the win until the final moments.
Ralph Beckett’s Bluestocking executed her race strategy flawlessly, taking the lead with only 100 yards left to go. But as the pace intensified towards the finish line, Savethelastdance found another gear under Ryan Moore’s guidance and surged ahead just in time to snatch victory by a whisker.
Speaking about his filly’s chances in this rematch after saddling Continuous to triumph in Wednesday’s Great Voltigeur Stakes, O’Brien expressed some concerns regarding ground conditions at York. He acknowledged that the quicker turf compared to Ascot might not be ideal for Savethelastdance but maintained confidence in her current form despite her preference for soft ground:
“Looking at today’s ground, it’s a little worrisome. Ryan mentioned that it’s faster than what we experienced at Ascot, so it’s genuinely quick ground. Savethelastdance has raced on similar surfaces before – as she did in Epsom – but her best performances have come on softer ground. Nevertheless, she remains in good form.”
O’Brien also possesses another strong contender in Warm Heart, winner of the Ribblesdale at Ascot but finishing fifth disappointingly in the Irish Oaks:
“Perhaps the softer underfoot conditions caught Warm Heart off guard during her last race. Additionally, being positioned too far back due to a slow pace may have contributed to her slightly lackluster performance. However, aside from that outing, she has shown remarkable progress throughout her career and boasts an impressive profile.”
For Ralph Beckett, narrowly missing out on consecutive victories in both the Irish Derby and Oaks following Westover’s success is still fresh on his mind.
Although Bluestocking is yet to secure a win this season, her performance at the Curragh marked another significant advancement from her third-place finish in the Ribblesdale at Royal Ascot behind none other than Warm Heart.
A confident Beckett shared his thoughts leading up to their next clash:
“Bluestocking had an excellent workout last Friday and we are eager for this opportunity. This race suits her perfectly given her Group One placement which makes alternatives scarce such as the Galtres Stakes.
I was thrilled with how she performed at the Curragh where everything fell into place until she got caught right at the end. It was only Bluestocking’s fourth race and each time she has shown improvement; therefore I believe there might be more growth ahead despite its competitiveness level – fingers crossed!”
A Deep Renewal with Varied Contenders
The Yorkshire Oaks, a significant event in the Qipco British Champions Series, attracts an array of talented fillies. One standout contender is Al Husn from Roger Varian’s stable.
Al Husn surprised many at Goodwood when she triumphed in the Nassau Stakes by defeating Blue Rose Cen and Nashwa. With a Group One victory already under her belt, she has proven herself as a formidable competitor.
Racing manager for owners Shadwell, Angus Gold expressed their careful planning regarding Al Husn’s participation at York:
“We wanted to ensure everything aligned perfectly for her next race. Our main concern was whether this would come too soon after the Nassau Stakes; however, she performed exceptionally well during last Thursday’s workout session and everyone involved is content with her condition.
We are fortunate that she already possesses a Group One title so there isn’t any pressure to chase another one immediately. Opting for this race instead of last Sunday’s Prix Jean Romanet provides an additional four-day gap between races.”