Deira Mile Eyes Classic Glory in St Leger After Narrow Windsor Defeat
Derby fourth returned to action at Windsor on Saturday.
Deira Mile remains on course for a shot at Classic success in the Betfred St Leger, despite a narrow defeat in the Listed August Stakes at Windsor. The Camelot colt, who finished fourth in the Derby earlier this year, returned to action as the hot favourite but was narrowly beaten by Sea Of Roses, who held on by a neck under a perfectly timed ride from Hayley Turner.
Trainer Owen Burrows, while disappointed not to secure the win, remains optimistic about Deira Mile's prospects as they prepare for the St Leger at Doncaster on September 14. Reflecting on the race, Burrows noted, "It was disappointing not to win, but it was a bit of a messy race, so I wasn't too disappointed with the performance as such."
What a performance!
No rival can get by Sea Of Roses in the August Stakes, as @Hayleyturner123's filly battles to success at @WindsorRaces…
— Sky Sports Racing (@SkySportsRacing) August 24, 2024
Burrows emphasized the importance of the prep run, explaining that it would have been a significant challenge to head straight to the St Leger without a recent race under Deira Mile's belt. "It was probably half a furlong shorter than ideal and a messy old race, but fair play to Hayley—she got her fractions spot-on, and we couldn't quite get by," Burrows acknowledged.
Despite the setback, Burrows is satisfied with Deira Mile's preparation and sees no reason to deviate from their plan. "I was happy as you can be for finishing second, and we'll go straight to the Leger now. I don't see any reason to change plans, so we'll head to Doncaster," he confirmed.
As Deira Mile gears up for his bid at Classic glory, all eyes will be on Doncaster to see if the talented colt can deliver on his potential in the prestigious St Leger.
