James Owen Eyes Promising Future for Wimbledon Hawkeye After Strong Acomb Stakes Performance

James Owen is optimistic about the future of Wimbledon Hawkeye following the colt's impressive performance in the Acomb Stakes at York last week, where he finished a close third between two Derby favorites, The Lion In Winter and Ruling Court.

Trained by Aidan O’Brien, The Lion In Winter set a new course record, while Charlie Appleby’s Ruling Court also showcased its class. Despite the high-caliber competition, Wimbledon Hawkeye, owned by the Gredley family, proved his potential and hinted at even better days ahead.

Reflecting on the race, Owen remarked, "Wimbledon ran a great race, setting a track record. He’s a very promising horse for the future." While Owen hasn't decided on the colt's next race, he's confident that Wimbledon Hawkeye will excel over longer distances next season. "He’s well-entered, and although we haven't made any specific plans, he’ll definitely benefit from going over a mile or more."

Very comfortable 😮‍💨

The Lion In Winter cruises home in the Tattersalls Acomb Stakes 🥇#ITVRacing | #EborFestival pic.twitter.com/ZDwlZWJkz2

— ITV Racing (@itvracing) August 21, 2024

However, Owen expressed some frustration at the lack of recognition for Wimbledon Hawkeye in the Guineas and Derby betting markets, noting, "He got beaten by the favorites for both the Guineas and Derby, yet he’s not even in the betting, which is slightly annoying. If he was trained by a bigger name, I’m sure he would be."

Meanwhile, Owen is reassessing plans for Burdett Road after the horse struggled to stay the distance in the Ebor at York. Burdett Road, who was among the favorites for the race, faded in the final furlong, finishing 12th behind winner Magical Zoe.

 

"I had a great time at York, but we were a bit unlucky in some races. I don’t think Burdett stayed the trip, but we’ll find out for sure next time," Owen said. "He’s come out of the race in good shape, so we’ll definitely give it another go on the Flat, probably over a shorter distance. He had a light campaign after hurdling, so we might try him again without the hood and see how he performs."

Owen also mentioned that while Burdett Road will return to hurdling, a final Flat run over a shorter distance is on the cards before transitioning back to hurdles.