3 minute read

Sea Of Grace gained a first win for William Haggas and set herself up for some loftier targets in the autumn with a straightforward success in the Betfred TV/EBF Stallions Dick Hern Stakes at Haydock.

A Group Three winner as a juvenile for John Oxx last season, she was second in the French Guineas before finishing fourth in the Falmouth at Newmarket.

Dropped markedly in class for this Listed assignment, Andrea Atzeni had her settled at the rear of the field but with two furlongs to run she still had plenty of ground to make up on Lincoln Rocks.

It did not take her long to pick up the admirable runner up, though, and she scooted four and a half lengths clear as the 8-11 favourite.

A step back in class now awaits, but such an easy win will have done wonders for her confidence.

Atzeni said: "She was entitled to do that, really, as she was down in grade.

"She really enjoys that (soft) ground. That the second time I've ridden her and she was much more relaxed this time.

"It was a bit like a piece of work, really. She settled well and picked them up no bother.

"You need them to settle in that ground, it makes it so much easier.

"That will set her up for some nice races in the autumn but she needs that ground."

Haggas was thrilled to see Sea Of Grace return to winning form and is now planning to step back up in class with the daughter of Born To Sea before the end of the season.

He said: "It was terrific. She has had some racing on ground that doesn't suit her, but she was in really good form and it has been pouring with rain so I was very keen to run her.

"I know it is a retrograde step going to a Listed race, but I was very keen to get her on that ground and that should do her the power of good. It was just a morale booster.

"She is a lovely filly and that was really good today. It was a smooth win on her ground.

"I want to give her a try over further as I'm sure she needs it. We will look at some nice races in the autumn.

"She is in the Blandford Stakes which is a Group Two at the Curragh and she will also be put in the Prix de l'Opera. "