Racing: A perfect start as nerves overcome
Nap: Regal Philosopher (Newcastle 3.20) NB: Pepperdine (4.55 Newcastle)
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.GARY STEVENS got his stint in Britain off to a perfect start with victory aboard the Ben Hanbury-trained Asef Alhind in the opening race at Sandown last night, a modest claiming event.
Settling the 6-4 favourite in third place, Stevens kicked his mount to the front just before two furlongs out and held the challenge of No Extras by a length and a quarter.
"What a way to start," he said. "Obviously there were butterflies a little bit. Even though it was a cheaper race, a lot was expected of the horse."
Stevens' second ride, Theseus, started as the 7-4 favourite but was beaten by the Frankie-Dettori-ridden Compton Amica, a stablemate of the Derby contender Compton Admiral.
Zaajer, whose Classic credentials were given a fillip by Mukhalif's win in Sunday's Derby Italiano, may yet take his chance in the Epsom original on Saturday rather than the French version at Chantilly 24 hours later.
Rain at Epsom has encouraged hopes that the Ed Dunlop-trained colt, who beat Mukhalif by a length and a half in the Glasgow Stakes at York last time, could line up on Saturday. Angus Gold, racing manager to Hamdan Al Maktoum, the colt's owner, said: "He just wants a bit of ease in the ground and if it firms up he will not run." Zaajer's Derby odds range from 20-1 to 40-1 (with Stanley).
Aidan O'Brien has ruled out High King from the premier Classic and is more likely to run Tchaikovsky in the Prix du Jockey-Club instead.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments