Saturday 2nd August 2014 - Nassau Stakes Review

Sultanina steals the show in Nassau

 

 

 



Considered an unsatisfactory Group 1 beforehand, the Markel Insurance Nassau Stakes ultimately delivered an intriguing renewal. A fascinating interview with breeder Philippa Cooper prior to the race gave an insight into the headaches of spearheading operations in her position at Normandie Stud. Her input into the training sphere paid dividends, as again the wealth of knowledge of owner/breeders was recognised and rewarded in style. The drop back to 10f provided a fruitful endeavour for her New Approach filly Sultanina, as she reigned supreme over French challenger Narniyn by 1 1/2 lengths. John Gosden's golden time continued having won the most prestigious King George last weekend with the scintillating Taghrooda and the Sussex Stakes on Tuesday with the almighty Kingman.

Sultanina (left) went down fighting in the Lancashire Oaks last time out behind unbeaten stablemate Pomology.

 

With the late absence of Amazing Maria, one of the speculative pace-setters in the race, the assured stayer Venus De Milo set the fractions for Joseph and Aidan O'Brien. Foreign interest soon came to the fore as the 7/4 favourite Narniyn quickened under Soumillion, after looking uncomfortable down the hill, to contest the lead. The Aga Khan's filly's effort was short-lived as the lesser experienced yet progressive Sultanina found her stride and powered clear after getting to grips with the surface in the latter stages. 1 1/2 lengths was the finishing margin. Narniyn ran well considering her far from idealistic experience and Venus De Milo confirmed suspicions regarding insufficient trip 3 lengths adrift. Mango Diva was the only obvious disappointment yet in reality could have simply been punching above her weight.

 

Alan Royer-Dupre endorsed his uncompromised confidence after the defeat of Narniyn. He expressed his relative pleasure given the circumstances, and continues to believe she has the ability to win a Group 1. The Prix Jean Romanet is the next port of call.


Aidan O'Brien stated York would be on the agenda for 3rd placed Venus De Milo, who he believes needs a mile and a half to show her best.


Sultanina could be freshened up in order to contest the Quipco British Champions Fillies’ and Mares’ Stakes at Ascot in October. Gosden's battalion is ever advancing however, and it appears The Fugue's departure has led the way for other top class fillies to follow. The unbeaten Pomology, who was ahead of Sultanina in the Lancashire Oaks last time, could follow Taghrooda to York. With such dominant firepower at his disposal, the trainers championship is within Gosden's grasp, if and only if his equine army continue to advance at the recent rate.

John Gosden adds another Nassau to his illustrious tally.