French Navy Sails Home In Earl Of Sefton

French Navy gained a fourth consecutive victory with an impressive display on his seasonal return in the Group Three Weatherbys General Stud Book Earl Of Sefton Stakes at Newmarket on Thursday, April 16.

The Charlie Appleby-trained seven-year-old raced in sixth of the eight runners in the early stages of the nine-furlong contest before moving up to dispute fifth on the far rail with three quarters of a mile to race.

The son of Shamardal travelled well behind the leaders and was switched out wide by William Buick to deliver his challenge passing the two-furlong marker.

French Navy quickened smartly entering the final furlong to take the lead in a matter of strides and was eased down close home.

He beat Arod by three quarters of a length in 1m 51.81s on good to firm, good in places ground, with the same margin back to Mondialiste in third.

Charlie Appleby commented: "I was delighted with French Navy today.

"We had slight concerns over the ground but he actually looked more impressive on it - he travelled nicely and picked up well.

"We will see how he comes out of this race before making any definite plans but the most logical thing would be to step him up to Group Two company now."

French Navy has now won four Group Three contests and the same number of Listed races.