SIR PRIZE, the stable’s tenth runner of the New Year made it win number three, when winning at Kempton last night in a 1m4f handicap under Robert Winston.
The lightly raced 4yo son of 2006 Derby winner, Sir Percy, was having just his fifth career run and drawn 14 of 14, was held up. Despite making headway in the back straight, the 20/1 shot was caught wide on the final bend but was good enough to come from behind to win by half a length from one of the joint-favourites, Double Legend.
Sir Prize has had his problems and did not make his debut until last September as a three-year-old but he cost 115,000 guineas at Tattersalls as a yearling and has the breeding to make an impact. He is the second foal out of winning mare and a half-brother to a US stakes winner. Given the manor of his victory, coming wide and being held up when four of the first five home were up with the pace, there should be more to come from the Michael and Heather Yarrow-owned gelding. Congratulations to them both not only for the win but for their patience!
The win continued the fabulous first week of the year for the stable following Swiss Chime’s win on New Year’s Day and then Tropics’ success two days later, proving that at eleven, the veteran sprinter is still in love with the game and has plenty to offer.
The win of Sir Prize means the yard currently has a very healthy 30% wins/runs strike rate. While all trainers have to keep their feet on the ground when things are going well, it’s equally important for a yard to enjoy the good times!
There’s also an added bonus about the win of Sir Prize as his two-year-old half-sister, Alsukar, is also in training at Harper Lodge Farm!