Skellet’s Stunning Late Burst Secures Sandown Triumph

 Skellet, with an electrifying late run, stormed to victory in the Listed Pequod 20 Years Of Seaworthiness Fortune Stakes at Sandown, narrowly defeating Checkandchallenge. The win showcased the filly’s determination and strength, capping off what has been a year of steady progress for her. Ralph Beckett’s camp had remained optimistic about Skellet’s potential, despite her not always showing the "glow" they had hoped for earlier in the season.

Barry Mahon, representing Juddmonte, the filly’s owner, was more than pleased with the performance. “Ralph has been satisfied with her all year,” Mahon commented. “He didn’t think she was quite at her best, but I sensed she was coming forward after her break. Today, she showed she still has plenty of potential.”

The question now looms over whether Skellet will continue in training. At three years old, she’s already made a mark, but her imposing physique suggests she may improve even more with time. Mahon hinted that the filly could return to racing at four, noting, “She’s a big, angular filly, and I believe there’s more to come from her.”

Listed success 🏆

Skellet digs deep to get the better of her rivals in the Listed Pequod 20 Years Of Seaworthiness Fortune Stakes @Sandownpark 🤩

A double on the day for @RalphBeckett and @HectorCrouch 👏 pic.twitter.com/lMvNH1jigD

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) September 18, 2024

 Skellet’s victory is not only a testament to her talent but also to her adaptability. She has demonstrated versatility in her races, thriving on cut ground, and has even proven herself across the English Channel in France. “She ran well in France last time, so we know she handles traveling. It wouldn’t be surprising to see her go abroad again,” Mahon said, leaving the door open for future international challenges.

Cosmic Year’s Explosive Debut Captures Sandown Crowd

The famous Juddmonte colors made yet another appearance at Sandown, this time courtesy of a remarkable performance by the two-year-old colt, Cosmic Year. Making his racecourse debut in the Sir Michael Stoute – Farewell And Thank You Novice Stakes, the young horse left the field in the dust, romping home by six and a half lengths. His pedigree promises much, being by Kingman and out of the Group One-winning mare Passage Of Time, making him a sibling to notable names like Time Test and Tempus.

Under the skilled guidance of jockey Oisin Murphy, Cosmic Year bided his time early in the race, sitting behind the odds-on favorite Rock d'Oro. But once Murphy made his move, the colt responded with a stunning turn of foot, surging forward to claim a commanding victory at odds of 5-2. Murphy was full of praise for the young horse, remarking, "He’s a lovely horse, and he behaved really well. I had one sit on him before today, and he’s probably improved both physically and in experience since then."

 

 This debut win leaves the door wide open for Cosmic Year’s future, with Juddmonte now tasked with determining his next move. Trainer Harry Charlton was just as impressed, noting how beautifully the colt behaved throughout the race. “It looked like they hacked around, but he picked up well when asked. More importantly, I thought he behaved impeccably,” Charlton said. “It’s up to Juddmonte to decide where he goes next, but with 28 two-year-old winners already, fitting him into stakes races will be a challenge.”

Prince of the Seas Impresses with Maiden Stakes Triumph

Meanwhile, Ralph Beckett's Prince Of The Seas confirmed the promise shown in his debut when he justified favoritism in the Orbital Veterinary Services EBF Maiden Stakes. The juvenile showed his staying power over seven furlongs, engaging in a fierce battle with Wild Nature before pulling clear to win by a length and a half, holding off a late surge from Sword Of Wessex.

Hector Crouch, who piloted Prince Of The Seas to victory, was enthusiastic about the colt’s future potential, especially in longer distances. "He’s going to be a lovely staying prospect next year," Crouch explained. "He’d probably get a mile and a quarter now, and he’s definitely one for those mile-and-a-half staying handicaps."

 

 The Beckett-trained youngster’s commanding performance highlights him as a future star, with clear ambitions of stepping up in both distance and competition. For now, the victory at Sandown serves as a clear indication of his talent and potential for future Group races.