Hannon: 'Barney' set for true stardom

Richard Hannon believes he has found the horse of his dreams, one capable of running in a range of international G1 races over a variety of distances.

J A McGrath

10 July, 2017

Step forward, Barney Roy, who convinced any would-be critics of his courage and determination as he fought bravely to finish a nose second to Ulysses in Saturday's G1 Eclipse Stakes at Sandown (UK).

Hannon believes we learned three things about Barney Roy at the weekend.

"First, I believe he showed just how strongly he can run a mile and a quarter. He got the trip, and he gave the impression he could get even further," Hannon pointed out.

"Secondly, he showed on Saturday that he gives everything in his races. It was his first start against the older horses, yet he fought really hard and only got beaten a nose.

"He has run a super race, and he will learn a lot from the experience," the trainer added.

"Finally, I think he showed just how manoeuvrable he can be, with regards to trip. One mile, 10 furlongs, even further.

"Most importantly, Godolphin have got a horse, with the ability to compete in some great G1s.

"Barney Roy could win a lot of top races," Hannon added.