The Phoenix Stakes: Opinions and Insights
Bucanero Fuerte Aims for Glory in Keeneland Phoenix Stakes
The highly promising two-year-old Bucanero Fuerte is set to prove his dominance in the racing world as he takes on the esteemed Keeneland Phoenix Stakes. The progeny of Wootton Bassett made a stellar impression with an impressive victory at Curragh maiden earlier this year and narrowly missed out on triumphing over River Tiber by just one length in the prestigious Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Recently, Bucanero Fuerte showcased his determination and class when he emerged victorious in the Group Two Railway Stakes under the guidance of trainer Adrian Murray. With a filly named Launch also representing Murray’s stable, Bucanero Fuerte will now strive to make his mark at Group One level, further establishing himself as one of the leading contenders among juvenile horses.
“Following his outstanding performance at Ascot, we entered him into the Railway Stakes with great confidence,” revealed Tom Pennington, racing and operations manager for owners Amo Racing. “He has been progressing impressively since then and our team has been delighted with his development. He exudes all signs of potential greatness.”
Bucanero Fuerte’s journey towards success started from Ascot onwards, with each race building upon previous achievements. This upcoming challenge at seven furlongs will be crucial to testing his abilities against top-tier competition.
The last horse to achieve consecutive victories in the Railway Stakes and Phoenix Stakes was Siskin back in 2019. If Bucanero Fuerte can replicate this feat, it will undoubtedly fuel dreams of future triumphs, much like Ger Lyons’ Irish 2,000 Guineas winner who excelled at a mile next season.
Pennington added, “We are open to all possibilities with him as he has always shown exceptional potential during training. Robson Aguiar holds him in high regard and we consider his opinion invaluable. For now, we are focused on taking one race at a time. He has come through every challenge with flying colors so far, and if everything goes well on Saturday, we can continue building upon that success.”
Bucanero Fuerte clinched victory by a narrow margin against Unquestionable in the Railway Stakes. However, Aidan O’Brien’s colt is determined to redeem himself by challenging his conqueror once again.
Ryan Moore will be piloting Unquestionable for this rematch while His Majesty seeks to bridge the nearly five-length gap from third place in the Railway Stakes under jockey Seamie Heffernan.
The O’Brien family also boasts another strong contender with Donnacha O’Brien’s Porta Fortuna – an impressive victor at Royal Ascot – set to compete against her male counterparts. With Oisin Murphy seizing the opportunity for an exciting ride aboard this unbeaten daughter of Caravaggio,