Punters are rallying behind Ballydoyle’s runner in January as she prepares to face the unbeaten Desert Flower in the highly anticipated Group 1 bet365 Fillies' Mile at Newmarket. The talented filly has garnered significant support in the market, seeing her odds slashed from 7-1 to 7-2. Her impressive second-place finish in the May Hill Stakes has cemented her status as a top contender to end Desert Flower's unbeaten streak.
Ridden by top jockey Ryan Moore, January is the most experienced of the three Ballydoyle runners. Her stablemates Dreamy and Ballet Slippers will also compete, but Moore’s choice to ride January underscores her confidence in her chances. Trained by Aidan O'Brien, who is tied for the most wins in this race, January could deliver O'Brien his record-breaking seventh victory in the Fillies' Mile. The legendary trainer has already tasted success in this race with the likes of Ylang Ylang and Minding.
O'Brien expressed his optimism, stating, "January is in good form after Doncaster, and we’re very happy with her preparation."
Meanwhile, the going at Newmarket is good to soft, with favourable weather conditions predicted for the race.
In addition to the excitement surrounding the Fillies' Mile, the jump season kicks off at Chepstow with the Grade 2 Unibet Persian War Novices' Hurdle. Local favourite Flying Fortune, trained by the Bowen family, is aiming for a fourth consecutive victory. After being backed heavily overnight, she now leads the market at 2-1. With a fitness edge over her competitors and a 7lb sex allowance, she’s set to be a major contender in the race.
The Bowens have yet to win a Persian War despite past successes in other major races, but Flying Fortune offers a prime opportunity for the family to claim the coveted title.
Chris Wilson, Racing Post's expert, has backed Flying Fortune as his top bet of the day.
