Richard Fahey’s youngster won despite the heavy ground.
Powerful Glory showcased his potential with an impressive late surge to win the Group Two Dubai Duty-Free Mill Reef Stakes at Newbury. Trained by Richard Fahey, the two-year-old colt, owned by Sheikh Rashid Dalmook al Maktoum, overcame challenging heavy ground to secure victory by a neck.
After winning his debut at Pontefract last month by a comfortable five and a half lengths, Powerful Glory was a 5-2 shot in a reduced field, following the withdrawal of leading contenders due to the conditions. Despite Brian, the 15-8 favourite, making a strong bid for victory after overtaking Sarab Star, it was jockey Oisin Orr and Powerful Glory who found their stride on the stands side, holding off a spirited challenge from La Bellota.
Billboard Star finished in third, overtaking Brian in the closing stages. Philip Robinson, representing Sheikh Rashid, revealed the team had concerns about running Powerful Glory on the heavy ground, considering his previous win came on firm turf.
"We thought about not running, but as it was his last race of the season, we decided to take our chance. His true class got him through," Robinson said.
Fahey echoed these sentiments, admitting he was worried about the ground but credited Sheikh Rashid's decision to race, calling the win a rewarding outcome.
"He's on his holidays now," Fahey added, noting the young colt’s promising future as they prepare him for bigger challenges ahead.
Powerful Glory’s victory solidifies his potential, having proven he can win in varied conditions, making him a horse to watch for the next season.
