Impressive Dante winner returns to action in Deauville after three months off.
Tom Marquand is looking forward to reuniting with Economics on Thursday, as the remarkable Dante winner makes his highly anticipated return to the racetrack at Deauville in the Prix Guillaume d'Ornano.
It has been just 91 days since William Haggas' progeny of Night Of Thunder last captivated audiences at the Knavesmire, yet the impact of that Derby trial victory has made his absence seem considerably longer.
Nevertheless, the experienced jockey believes that the strategy employed by the connections will be justified on the Normandy coast, where he remains optimistic that the gifted colt can pave the way for significant races later in the season.
What a performance!
Economics runs out a thrilling winner of the @ABE_Dubai Dante Stakes in the manner of a very exciting colt for @TomMarquand, @WilliamHaggas and Isa Salman Al Khalifa pic.twitter.com/MRGgn1IH9s
— York Racecourse (@yorkracecourse) May 16, 2024
Marquand expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "I am eagerly anticipating his return to form, and he undoubtedly remains an exceptionally thrilling horse." "Thursday will be a crucial day in his career, as it will help establish objectives and strategies for the remainder of the year."
"William and Maureen assess their horses and respond accordingly, which is precisely what they have done with this particular horse."
"Observing him at home, it appears to be an ideal decision to take their time, and we hope he can translate that preparation onto the track. This period of strengthening and maturation should greatly benefit him." Marquand had an excellent vantage point during Economics' impressive six-length victory in the Dante and shares the excitement of seeing if his mount can replicate his success at York in this compelling Group Two race, which Haggas won with Dubai Honour three years ago.
The stunning Economics in Deauville ahead of tomorrow's Prix Guillaume d'Ornano. pic.twitter.com/vOrRefgDJW
— Emma Berry (@CollingsBerry) August 14, 2024
Marquand expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "You cannot help but feel excited (after York)."
"There is always a degree of skepticism that arises when a horse wins so convincingly; the race conditions were favorable, and one must remain realistic about that. "However, the way he performed—if you were to focus solely on him throughout the race—was truly impressive. "This race is certainly challenging, but I eagerly anticipate riding him."
Among the primary challengers to Economics is Almaqam, trained by Ed Walker, who made a significant impression by defeating Kikkuli in the Heron Stakes and subsequently performed admirably when competing in Group One at the St James's Palace Stakes during Royal Ascot.
The offspring of Lope De Vega, who will be partnered with William Buick, is set to make his debut at a distance of 10 furlongs. His trainer is optimistic that this change in distance will yield the necessary improvement for him to compete effectively in this highly competitive race.
Walker remarked, "This is going to be an exceptional race, and I am pleased to have a horse that I believe is capable of being a contender." He continued, "We will see how it unfolds, but I anticipate that the top three finishers will all achieve Group One victories at some point in their careers, and I am eager for the event."
"I believe that increasing his distance will lead to significant improvement, and with William's familiarity with him, we are quite hopeful." Brian Meehan's Hampton Court victor, Jayarebe, is also in contention as he aims for his third victory of the season.
Additionally, Arrow Eagle, Safwan, and Wahdan will represent Jean-Claude Rouget, who is pursuing a third consecutive win in this race after having trained Al Hakeem and Ace Impact to victory in the previous two years. Completing the seven-horse lineup is Bright Picture, the Prix Eugene Adam winner trained by Andre Fabre, as they prepare to compete in France.
