Upcoming Cup Competitions Planned for Gregory in the Coming Year

Gregory sets his sights on top staying races for next year

In a brave display at the St Leger, Gregory concluded his three-year-old campaign with an impressive run despite defeat. Trained by John and Thady Gosden, this son of Golden Horn established himself as a high-class performer early on, winning his first three outings. He further showcased his stamina capabilities by triumphing under Frankie Dettori’s guidance in the Queen’s Vase at Royal Ascot.

However, after experiencing his first loss in the Great Voltigeur at York and being abandoned by Dettori due to unfavorable weather conditions in South Yorkshire, Gregory failed to rectify the situation on unsuitable ground at Doncaster. Aidan O’Brien’s Continuous confirmed their Knavesmire form on Town Moor while Gregory struggled.

The Wathnan Racing-owned colt is currently entered for the Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup at Ascot next month. Nevertheless, following a valiant fifth-place finish once overtaken in the St Leger race, connections have decided to wait until next year before testing his abilities over longer distances. The Doncaster outing marked the end of Gregory’s 2023 season.

“I believe he will perform better on firmer ground and he still put up an admirable performance,” stated Richard Brown, racing adviser to Gregory’s owners when reflecting upon his recent St Leger run.

“He’s a substantial colt – indeed the largest and most promising horse among that field – and he’s only going to improve from three to four years old.

“Although he still ran creditably, we will now give him a break and focus on transforming him into a Cup horse for next year. I think his cruising speed is exceptional and he has the ability to sustain it, so that’s the direction we’ll be heading.”