Wathnan Racing takes aim at the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint with seasoned contender Aesterius and Norfolk Stakes winner Shareholder, as they challenge a competitive field including Big Mojo and promising international runners.
Wathnan Racing is set to mount a dual challenge in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint this Friday, with Aesterius, one of the top contenders, competing against Big Mojo at Del Mar. This racing operation of the Emir of Qatar is represented by both Archie Watson's Aesterius and Karl Burke's Shareholder. Jockey James Doyle, after thoughtful deliberation, has decided to ride Aesterius.
Aesterius, a tenacious offspring of Mehmas, has achieved four victories in six outings and approaches the race with momentum after his victory in the Flying Childers at Doncaster in September. This event was previously claimed by Big Evs, who later succeeded at Santa Anita, and the team is hopeful that Aesterius' innate speed and experience will be highlighted.
Shareholder, the winner of the Norfolk Stakes, is cherished by the Wathnan Racing team. Although his performance in the Prix Morny was not as expected, the team is optimistic about his comeback following a recent training session at Southwell. 'We encountered some difficulties before the Prix Morny, and the conditions were not in our favor,' Brown noted. 'He needs five furlongs on fast ground, and that should suit him perfectly.'
Both horses were acquired from the breeze-up sales and are focused on this event, with Brown expressing excitement about their potential.
Meanwhile, Mick Appleby is aiming to replicate last year's victory with Big Mojo, who bears the colors of Crystal Palace supporter Paul Teasdale. Big Mojo and Aesterius have a competitive history, with Big Mojo winning their first meeting in the Molecomb Stakes at Goodwood, followed by a narrow defeat at Doncaster. Appleby feels optimistic after watching Big Mojo's performance in a recent pre-Breeders' Cup practice run at Southwell. 'He drew a good gate and will hopefully position himself just behind the leaders,' said Appleby. 'He worked well and seemed to handle the bend nicely.'
Japan is showcasing the undefeated Ecoro Sieg, who has the potential to boost their performance at the Breeders' Cup. Additionally, George Weaver's Governor Sam is a formidable competitor, having secured victories in his last four races, which adds to the excitement of this eagerly awaited event.
