Winner – Andaleep

Andaleep scored on his first appearance for Sarsen Farm. David Egan was aboard James Finches’ gelding as he captured a ten furlong handicap at Goodwood on Sunday 5th of June. In behind him were two last time out winners. In a tactical affair David got his timing spot on and was always holding the late charge of Militry Decoration.

The six year old gelding has not been with us long and in truth we are still getting to know him. We’d throughly analysed his past form to understand his optimum conditions. His handicap mark was somewhat below his peak which gave us a real chance if we got things right. We gave him a gallop last Saturday to understand his fitness levels. Rider Mark Lawson was happy that he was in good enough shape to race, as did the data. He galloped together with a horse that suggested he would be able to perform to a level required to win a race at this level.

Some credit has to go to farrier Steve Boddy, a man of great experience who has shod three different Derby winners during his career. Andaleep arrived with what appeared to be an overly complicated shoeing set up. When you only have limited knowledge about a horse it often makes sense to back to basics. Which is exactly what we did.

As ever thanks to all the team. Physically it looks as if we might be able to bring about a bit more improvement from Andaleep. He lacks the real shine to his coat that most of the horses running for us at the moment have. He will adapt in the coming weeks to the training approach here at Sarsen Farm. Andaleep is still some way below his peak rating. If we can return to him close to that level there should be some more races to be won with him in the coming months. He holds entries at Bath and Haydock later this week but there are plenty of options.