‘We think he’s a racehorse’ Sprint Cup is one of two weekend options for Almeraq as Shadwell rules out Ayr’s 5-1 big handicap
The racing world is abuzz with anticipation as Almeraq, the promising three-year-old colt trained by William Haggas, prepares for his next challenge. After a scintillating performance at Ayr in July, where he dominated the Fergie & Myra Happel Ayr Gold Cup Trial Handicap, connections at Shadwell are now weighing their options for the weekend, with the prestigious Betfair Sprint Cup at Haydock emerging as a primary target. However, the Ayr Gold Cup, despite its allure and a tempting 5-1 price tag, has been ruled out in favor of more ambitious plans for the talented Dark Angel colt.
Almeraq’s recent form has marked him as a sprinter of significant potential. His handicap debut at Ayr was nothing short of spectacular, as he powered through the six-furlong contest to secure a commanding five-length victory. Starting as the 2-1 favorite with a mark of 90, Almeraq showcased his class by stalking the early leaders before surging clear under jockey Clifford Lee. This performance earned him a 12lb jump in his Timeform rating to 113p, signaling his readiness for higher-level competition. His earlier outings, including a strong showing at Yarmouth last October and a defeat to the highly regarded Spy Chief, further underline his credentials as a horse capable of competing at the elite level.
Shadwell’s racing manager, Angus Gold, has been vocal about Almeraq’s potential, describing him as a horse with stakes-class ability. “We think he’s a racehorse,” Gold said, emphasizing the colt’s suitability for soft ground and his readiness to step up in class. The decision to bypass the Ayr Gold Cup, a lucrative handicap with a rich history, reflects the team’s belief in Almeraq’s ability to shine in pattern company. Instead, connections are considering the Group 1 Betfair Sprint Cup at Haydock, set for this Saturday, or the Listed Garrowby Stakes at York on Sunday. The choice hinges on several factors, including ground conditions, as Almeraq thrives on softer going.
The Betfair Sprint Cup represents a significant step up, pitting Almeraq against some of the best sprinters in Britain and Ireland. The field is expected to include formidable contenders like Lazzat, More Thunder, and Inisherin, with Almeraq listed at 12-1 in early betting markets. Despite the challenge, Gold remains optimistic, noting that the colt’s limited racing this season due to firm ground has left him fresh and ready to compete. “He’s had so little racing this year,” Gold remarked, “and we’re just debating whether to throw him in at the deep end or take a more gentle approach.” A good showing in the Sprint Cup could solidify Almeraq’s reputation as a top-tier sprinter and potentially pave the way for a tilt at the British Champions Sprint at Ascot next month.
The alternative option, the Garrowby Stakes, offers a less daunting challenge but still provides an opportunity to secure a stakes win. A victory here could bolster Almeraq’s credentials before targeting bigger prizes later in the season. Haggas, who has a 39 percent strike rate at Ayr over the last five years, is known for his meticulous preparation, and his confidence in Almeraq’s readiness is evident. The trainer’s decision to avoid the Ayr Gold Cup, despite its £100,000 prize pot, underscores the long-term vision for the colt, who is seen as a potential star in the sprinting division.
Almeraq’s journey has not been without its challenges. Minor issues in the spring and early summer delayed his campaign, but his recent performances suggest he has overcome those setbacks. His ability to handle testing conditions, combined with his powerful finishing kick, makes him a versatile contender. As the racing community awaits the final decision on his weekend target, the excitement surrounding Almeraq continues to build. Whether he lines up at Haydock or York, this promising colt is poised to make a significant impact, with connections dreaming of Group 1 glory and a lasting legacy in the sport.
