Winner – River Sprite

River Sprite won the 8.00 at Newcastle on Friday evening. The three year old filly was stepping up to a mile for the first time and the extra distance proved the key as the filly delivered on the promise she had shown on her first start as a two year old. Credit also to jockey Adam McNamara who had done his homework and analysed the likely shape of the race and put forward a successful plan which he executed well.

Simple review of pedigree would suggest that River Sprite would be a sprinter, being by Swiss Spirit a Group winning sprinter out of a very fast mare who won two sprints in the US. However analysis of her stride pattern in training at home and a genetic analysis showed that she should get the extra distance.

River Sprite’s victory was also about horsemanship. One of the great strengths of Sarsen Farm is the layout of the stables. We have a variety of stabling options that provide different experiences for horses, a couple of months ago it was apparent River Sprite wasn’t happy. Some horses prefer a very private space where they can’t see too many horses where as others like River Sprite when they can see other horses and see outside the stable. A switch of stable has seen River Sprite thrive. She is also a filly that enjoys her turnout time in the afternoon. As ever thanks to the team for all their hard work.

River Sprite is owned by the Diskovery Partnership and breeder Fiona Denniff who kept an interest in the horse when she was purchased privately. The Diskovery Partnership offers you small shares in horses and is managed directly by Daniel & Claire. Keeping you involved in all the excitement on the track and behind the scenes action and events at Sarsen Farm together with enthusiastic owners.

River Sprite has a half brother by first season Sire Ardad that is being offered at the Tattersalls Book 3 yearling sale as lot 1709.