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It’s been a very refreshing trip for me. Firstly the Royal Ascot experience was unbelievable and to know we had a horse that was competitive in the race was very special. To come so close is obviously frustrating now but at the time it was just a huge privilege to be a part of what I thought was an amazing race day.
Having him well-prepared was a big part of why I think he ran so well in the Diamond Jubilee. He acclimatised quickly to the conditions in England and I think a big part of how well he adapted to the training tracks and undulating race courses was thanks to our use of The Hermitage’s property, which is operated by the Koolman family just out of Sydney.
Another highlight has been getting to meet the trainers and stable staff in what I believe is a much more relaxed atmosphere for them and the horses compared to how we train in Australia. I will be doing everything I can to introduce some of that into the way we train back home.
We have basically trained Brazen Beau the same way we would have in Australia with short, sharp work to make sure we keep the speed in his legs. He’s been working on undulating ground but it’s been only very mild with small rises and no big hills. He’s coped very well and he’s a very happy horse, which is, as you know, what we try and concentrate on.
Having the opportunity to prepare Brazen Beau for a second race in Europe is a privilege. His training has gone perfectly well and the jockey’s sat on him a few times. Barrier 15 in the Darley July Cup is going to make things interesting as it’s the outside draw, the same as he had at Ascot and that’s what I believe cost us the win on that day.
We will need a bit of luck in the running, which you need in every race anyway, but he’s at the top of his game and is close to being the world’s best sprinter and if he won then I think he will confirm that. That is easier said than done and we have a big job ahead and the July Course has a tough straight. There’s also a tough mix of seasoned horses and young horses like he was back in Australia and with the UK 3yos getting a weight allowance, there are a few things against us.
We will give it our best shot, we’re proud to be here and I am sure he will do a good job for us on Saturday.
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