"Frankel’s Legacy: Luther Aims for Haydock Triumph as Charlie Fellowes Predicts Bright Future"
Frankel colt is held in very high regard.
Charlie Fellowes Excited for Luther’s Ascendant Stakes Run as Youngster Aims for Stardom
Trainer Charlie Fellowes believes he may have one of the finest two-year-olds in his stable as he prepares Luther for the upcoming Betfair Ascendant Stakes at Haydock. The talented son of Frankel, who cost connections a staggering 250,000 guineas as a yearling, has shown promising potential in just two career starts, hinting at an even brighter future ahead.
Luther made a striking debut at Salisbury, capturing the win and immediately raising expectations. He returned to the same venue for the Stonehenge Stakes, where he was narrowly denied victory by Andrew Balding’s highly regarded New Century. Despite the defeat, Fellowes remains buoyant, believing the young colt is still far from the finished product and has much more to give.
Reflecting on Luther's most recent race, Fellowes said, "I think he did everything wrong at Salisbury, which was why it was so impressive. He had a setback after his debut win, and I had hoped to run him at Ascot in the Listed Pat Eddery Stakes, but we missed that opportunity. His lack of experience showed in his last race."
The defeat at Salisbury was not without its silver lining, however, as the race winner, New Century, had previously finished second in the Ascot contest that Luther missed. This bolstered Fellowes' confidence in his own runner’s ability. "The winner was more battle-hardened, but I was very pleased with how Luther performed," he added.
Now, with Haydock looming, Fellowes is optimistic about Luther’s chances. "The plan is to go to the Ascendant Stakes at Haydock over a mile, and I hope he will be very competitive. After that, we may look at the Royal Lodge Stakes or another race at the end of September. He’s a good horse and as nice a two-year-old as I’ve had, so I’m looking forward to him."
Luther’s pedigree and promise have led to high expectations, and his trainer remains excited about what’s to come. With a little more experience under his belt, Fellowes believes the talented colt could soon fulfill his star potential.
Another Star Returning: The Wizard Of Eye Nears Comeback
Meanwhile, Fellowes’ Bedford House stable is also eagerly awaiting the return of The Wizard Of Eye, who has been sidelined due to injury. The five-year-old bay gelding made an impressive stable debut by winning the Victoria Cup and then put up a huge effort in Group One company at Royal Ascot. However, injury woes struck, keeping him off the track since then.
Despite the setback, Fellowes is optimistic about The Wizard Of Eye’s progress and recovery, hinting that his return is on the horizon. “He is good, and we are taking it day by day, but he galloped on Tuesday and worked well,” Fellowes shared.
Several options are on the table for his comeback, with the trainer eyeing either the seven-furlong bet365 Handicap at Ascot or the Betfred Park Stakes at Doncaster on St Leger day. "It’s a bit of a balancing act," Fellowes said. "He could go to Ascot, or if I feel he needs another week, we could wait and head to Doncaster. We've got options, and he looks great. Hopefully, the setback is behind him."
Having shown such strong form earlier in the season, The Wizard Of Eye’s return to action is highly anticipated. If he can recapture the form that saw him shine at Royal Ascot, Fellowes’ stable may once again be celebrating big results in the weeks to come.
Charlie Fellowes is emerging as a trainer with an eye for potential and the patience to nurture young talents like Luther and seasoned campaigners like The Wizard Of Eye. Luther’s progression from his debut win to his upcoming Listed race at Haydock showcases Fellowes’ ability to manage a rising star with careful planning. With The Wizard Of Eye nearing a return after injury, it’s a busy yet exciting time at Bedford House Stables. The Ascendant Stakes will be a crucial test for Luther, but all signs point to a bright future. Should Fellowes guide him to victory, the two-year-old could soon become a name on every racing enthusiast’s lips.
