The Golden Rose winner from the spring – Jacquinot – proved too strong on return in Thursday's Manfred Stakes at Sandown, in what was a grandstand finish for favourite backers.
Things looked dire for punters as Jacquinot was mid-field with nowhere to go when straight; however, it was jockey Damian Lane who produced an intelligent rails hugging effort to get the head down right on the winning post.
Merry Mac Boy led them up turning for home with Maximillius chiming in as well, before Bank Maur and Ruthless Dame challenged the leaders with 200m to go.
Meanwhile it was Jacquinot and Damian Lane who elected to sneak runs up the inside before nailing his rivals in stunning fashion.
2023 Manfred Stakes Replay – Jacquinot
It was a very strong return with the top weight for this son of Rubick who was able to make it a perfect three starts for three wins when resuming for trainers Mick Price and Michael Kent (Jnr).
Coming back off a short 89-day spell for the three-year-old colt and co-trainer Michael Kent (Jnr) gave every indication post-race that they intend to aim for the Group 1 CF Orr Stakes in just over two weeks' time.
“He's very slow to muster isn't he, he's got that big long stride, so he was in an awkward spot behind a long shot. Damian (Lane) did well to get him off the fence and the horse is very game,” said Michael Kent (Jnr).
“It's not easy to burrow underneath them and he kept coming, so he's got a lot of improvement to come. I think a very smart win, the colt kept finding under pressure and yeah, bring on the CF Orr.
“Short turnaround from the Coolmore to today, so he's done a terrific job and now two and a half weeks up in trip be perfect for him.”
Jockey Damian Lane was delighted with Jacquinot's effort in his post-race interview as well, starting emphatically.
“He's an impressive horse,” said Lane
“He keeps improving and great to have him back in such good order. Although he didn't have long off, he's filled out nicely and excited for the Autumn ahead.”
Lane said he wasn't entirely sure where he'd sit in the run on Jacquinot, but knew he had the class galloper underneath him. He also talked briefly on his CF Orr Stakes contention.
“I was never sure from the low draw where I'd end up in the run – but I knew that he was adaptable either way. If we were closer, further back, outside, inside it doesn't worry him and can do anything”
“He obviously had a bit of weight on these horses today, so it'll be good to get him back under weight-for-age conditions and running so well like he did in the spring.”
After Thursday's win Jacquinot now finds himself a $4 equal favourite with online bookmakers in the Group 1 CF Orr Stakes.