Beckett-trained juvenile enhanced his reputation in defeat at the weekend.
Matauri Bay is set to take on Group One company later this season after a strong showing in the Group Three Solario Stakes at Sandown on Saturday. The Ralph Beckett-trained colt, a sibling to Breeders' Cup winner Aunt Pearl, showed promise by finishing a close second behind the hot favourite, Field Of Gold, from the John and Thady Gosden yard.
After a comfortable debut win at Leicester, Matauri Bay took a big step up in class, and despite a challenging draw, he was the clear second-best. Racing adviser Alex Elliott, speaking on behalf of part-owners Valmont, noted the colt's potential, saying, "He ran a very good race, but we were compromised by the draw. He ran green when we needed him to kick into gear, but once he found space, he really motored home."
It's a Gold Rush 🥇
Field Of Gold wins the Sky Bet Solario Stakes for a record 7th time! 🏆#ITVRacing | @Sandownpark pic.twitter.com/J0DvrDqxHt
— ITV Racing (@itvracing) August 31, 2024
Elliott added that despite the narrow defeat, there’s reason to be optimistic, as the colt ran the final two furlongs faster than the winner. With a rating of 108, connections are now considering several high-profile races, including the Futurity Trophy, the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardère on Arc weekend, or the Dewhurst Stakes. Elliott is particularly confident about a rematch on soft ground, believing it will suit Matauri Bay well.
"We wouldn't be afraid to take on Field Of Gold again, especially on softer ground," said Elliott. "It's great to have a potential top two-year-old on our hands."
You Got To Me Eyes Ascot Return After Solid Season
Another standout from Ralph Beckett’s yard, You Got To Me, who secured Classic glory in the Irish Oaks earlier this year, is also being lined up for another significant race. She followed her Irish Oaks victory by finishing second to Content in the Yorkshire Oaks last month.
While plans remain flexible, Elliott confirmed that the British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes on Champions Day at Ascot is the current target. "She's come out of the race at York OK, but we're just taking things as they come. The fillies’ and mares’ race on Champions Day is looking like the most likely option at the moment."
Both Matauri Bay and You Got To Me are exciting prospects for the remainder of the season, with plenty of big-race opportunities on the horizon for Beckett's promising stars.
