You are here

Native Trail narrowly beaten in captivating G1 Eclipse Stakes

Racenews

Native Trail produced another valiant display on his first attempt over a mile and a quarter as he finished a close third in a gripping renewal of the G1 Eclipse Stakes at Sandown Park, UK, on Saturday, 2 July.

This season’s Irish 2,000 Guineas winner broke on terms and raced in fifth early on before moving up a place after the first quarter-mile.

Native Trail continued to race one off the rail behind top older horses Alenquer, Bay Bridge and Lord North before travelling powerfully into the race over two furlongs from home.

All six horses bunched soon after, with Native Trail quickening well for William Buick to dispute the running alongside Vadeni and Lord North entering the final furlong.

The trio battled for the lead until Vadeni asserted in the closing strides, with Mishriff charging home to take second from Native Trail on the line. A neck and a head separated the first three home, with another half-length back to Lord North in fourth.

Trainer Charlie Appleby said: “Native Trail has run a good, solid race and has seen the trip out. William said we had no excuses – they went steady but he had every opportunity turning in. Vadeni is a good colt and Native Trail has just lost out on second to another excellent horse in Mishriff.

“Native Trail has proven his versatility over a mile and 10 furlongs, and we wouldn’t run away from trying him over this distance again. It certainly opens up a few more options.”