The racing world is abuzz with the prospect of Saxon Street, an unbeaten three-year-old, potentially becoming the next Derby winner. This son of Saxon Warrior has already proven his mettle by winning the Blue Riband Trial at Epsom, and now he's set to go head-to-head with other top contenders in the Cocked Hat Stakes at Goodwood. But what makes this race so intriguing is the unique circumstances surrounding Saxon Street's journey to the Derby.
A Unique Path to the Derby
Saxon Street's road to the Derby is anything but conventional. The British Stallion Studs EBF Cocked Hat Stakes hasn't produced a Derby winner since 1979, and with Saxon Street among the declared runners, it's the strongest candidate in a long time. The fact that he's already a trial winner and is no bigger than 20-1 for the Betfred Derby adds to the excitement. But what's truly fascinating is the strategic approach of his joint-trainer, Thady Gosden.
Gosden, in a rare move, is choosing to focus on Goodwood rather than Epsom for Saxon Street's next race. This decision is not just about the track; it's a calculated move to give Saxon Street a competitive edge. Gosden explains, 'He came out of his Epsom race well. It was a step up into Listed company, and he was learning all the time. But the Cocked Hat looked a good spot, and it's an unconventional track.'
A Competitive Field
The Cocked Hat Stakes is no walk in the park. The field is small but packed with talented horses. Saxon Street is odds-on, but he's not alone. Karl Burke's Golden Story, which finished third in the Dee Stakes, and Godolphin's Del Maro, who finished fourth in the Chester Vase, are also in the running. Gosden acknowledges the competition, saying, 'There are unexposed horses in there still. Del Maro ran a good race last time out, and Golden Story put up a very promising performance at Chepstow.'
Strategic Decisions and Unconventional Paths
The decision to focus on Goodwood is a strategic one, considering the tight schedule leading up to the Derby. With the Derby just two weeks after the Cocked Hat, Gosden and his team must make a choice that benefits Saxon Street's long-term prospects. Gosden sums it up, 'It’s quite tight. We’ll have to see how we get on, and the decision will be up to his owner, Mark Chan. There is no rush to decide whether he goes to Epsom or elsewhere.'
The Derby's Unpredictable Nature
The Derby is a race that has produced some of the most iconic moments in racing history, but it's also known for its unpredictability. The fact that Saxon Street is already a trial winner and has the support of a strong team like Gosden's only adds to the intrigue. As Gosden puts it, 'He came out of his Epsom race well. It was a step up into Listed company, and he was learning all the time. But the Cocked Hat looked a good spot, and it's an unconventional track.'
In my opinion, the Cocked Hat Stakes is a crucial stepping stone for Saxon Street's journey to the Derby. It's a chance for him to showcase his talent and gain valuable experience. The fact that he's already a trial winner and is no bigger than 20-1 for the Betfred Derby makes him a serious contender. But the real test will be at Goodwood, where he'll face off against some of the best horses in the sport.
As an expert, I find it fascinating that a horse like Saxon Street, with such a promising future, is being given a unique path to the Derby. It's a testament to the sport's unpredictability and the strategic thinking of trainers like Gosden. The Cocked Hat Stakes is not just a race; it's a pivotal moment in Saxon Street's career, and the entire racing world is watching with bated breath.
