Soon-to-retire trainer has won Doncaster contest five times before.
As Sir Michael Stoute prepares to retire at the end of the season, he and leading owners Juddmonte are hoping to end their long and successful partnership on a high note with promising colt Jonquil. The son of Lope De Vega made an impressive debut at Sandown, overcoming a challenging position to win decisively. Now, he steps up to Listed company, competing in the Betfred Flying Scotsman Stakes at Doncaster on Friday.
Oh, my … 😱
Everything went wrong for debutant 𝐉𝐨𝐧𝐪𝐮𝐢l (Lope De Vega) @Sandownpark but he still wins, hands-and-heels, under Ryan Moore@JuddmonteFarms's youngster looks a serious prospect from what should emerge a deeply informative @BritishEBF Maiden ✨ pic.twitter.com/OO7kikCAGS
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) August 30, 2024
Stoute, renowned as the most successful trainer in the history of this seven-furlong race, previously won it with Sangarius in 2018. Jonquil’s rapid progression from debut winner to this prestigious event showcases his potential as a star for the future. Barry Mahon, European racing manager for Juddmonte, expressed optimism about Jonquil’s readiness: "He came out of Sandown in very good shape... we were all impressed with his debut win and hopefully he can build on that."
Juddmonte’s association with Stoute spans nearly 25 years, yielding over 50 stakes winners, including the iconic Derby and Arc double with Workforce in 2010. As Jonquil prepares for his next challenge, there is a sense of nostalgia and excitement within the team, hoping he can send Stoute off in style.
Mahon reflected on Stoute's legacy: "Sir Michael has probably been one of the best British trainers of the last century... It’s great to see him going out on his terms and on a high." The anticipation is palpable as Jonquil looks to follow in the footsteps of other notable horses trained by Stoute for Juddmonte, including Expert Eye, who achieved success at Royal Ascot and the Breeders' Cup.
As the curtain falls on a remarkable career for Stoute, all eyes will be on Jonquil to potentially carve out his own legacy and honor the partnership that has produced countless champions.
