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| Staff Writer |
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Spirit Dancer, Frankel's 7YO son, co-owned by Sir Alex Ferguson and trained by Richard Fahey, is set to defend his US$1 million Bahrain International Trophy crown. This remarkable gelding's ambitious Middle East campaign may also include potential stops in Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia, showcasing the global reach of his connections' aspirations.
Spirit Dancer's journey to the top echelons of international racing has been anything but conventional. A homebred of Sir Alex Ferguson, the gelding showed promise from the start but required patience to reach his full potential.
"He's a 7YO, but he hasn't had an awful lot of racing," Fahey explains. "He was quite a backward horse in his two- and three-year-old career as we were just waiting for him to mature. Only in the last couple of seasons have we been able to race him in plenty."
This patience has paid off handsomely. Spirit Dancer has blossomed into a genuine Group One contender, with his crowning achievement coming in last year's Bahrain International Trophy. The victory was a testament to the horse's ability and the faith placed in him by his connections.
"Thanks to the owners, they gave me the opportunity to work with him and let him mature, and now we can see the benefits. The horse needed time, and they were very understanding," Fahey reflects.
The gelding's progression has been remarkable. From humble beginnings in handicap company, Spirit Dancer has steadily climbed the ranks, notching impressive victories along the way. His win in the Bahrain International Trophy was followed by a triumphant performance in the US$1.5 million Neom Turf Cup in Saudi Arabia, further cementing his status as a top-tier international competitor.
As Spirit Dancer prepares to defend his Bahrain title, Fahey leaves no stone unturned. The horse recently contested the Gr.3 Darley Stakes at Newmarket, finishing seventh out of eight runners. While the result might not catch the eye, Fahey sees it as a crucial stepping stone.
"He wasn't fully wound up, but it was just nice to get him back on track and get into his next run, which will be Bahrain," the trainer notes. "All roads lead there."
This approach mirrors last year's successful campaign, demonstrating Fahey's confidence in his proven formula. The trainer is acutely aware of the rising standards of racing in the Middle East, particularly in Bahrain.
"The quality of the race has jumped up. This year it looks like it's going to jump up again. There are 10 or 12 Group One winners entered this year," Fahey observes. "Every race, especially when there's so much money, will attract people and some very, very good horses."
The competition in Bahrain is indeed fierce, with 61 initial entries for the Bahrain International Trophy. Notable contenders include Aidan O'Brien's Luxembourg, John and Thady Gosden's Nashwa, and James Fanshawe's Derby runner-up Ambiente Friendly. This stellar lineup underscores the growing importance of the event and the challenge that Spirit Dancer faces in his title defence.
The involvement of Sir Alex Ferguson adds an extra layer of intrigue to Spirit Dancer's story. The former Manchester United manager's passion for racing is well-documented, but his connection to this particular horse runs deep.
"He's been talking about it for about three months because the plan was always to go back to the Middle East. So, he stuck it in his diary. I'd be surprised if he doesn't turn up," Fahey says with a smile.
Ferguson's transition from the football pitch to the racecourse has been seamless. His eye for talent, honed over decades in football, has translated well to the world of Thoroughbred racing. Spirit Dancer is Not just a racehorse for Ferguson; he's a homebred, representing years of careful planning and investment in the sport.
The trainer vividly recalls the emotional scenes following Spirit Dancer's triumph in Saudi Arabia earlier this year.
"To turn around and see his face is just a delight. It was a great shot in Saudi. The enjoyment racing gave them that day was tear-jerking stuff. It was emotional, and they thoroughly enjoyed it."
This moment, where three titans of sport – Sir Alex Ferguson and co-owners Peter and Fred Done and Ged Mason – embraced in joy, underscored the unique thrill that horse racing can provide, even to those who have reached the pinnacle of success in other fields.
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While the Bahrain International Trophy remains the primary target, Fahey is considering an ambitious detour to Hong Kong before a potential return to Saudi Arabia.
"There is a race in Hong Kong. It's quite close to the Bahrain race," Fahey reveals. "We'd have to see how the horse is after Bahrain because I think it's only just over two weeks between Bahrain and Hong Kong."
This potential itinerary showcases the global aspirations Fahey holds for Spirit Dancer. It also highlights the evolving landscape of international racing, with improved quarantine procedures making such ambitious plans possible.
"Last year it wasn't physically possible to go from Bahrain to Hong Kong because of the quarantine rules. But the racing authorities in the Middle East and Hong Kong made it easier for us. We could fly straight from Bahrain to Hong Kong," Fahey explains.
The Hong Kong option presents an intriguing opportunity for Spirit Dancer to test his mettle against some of the world's best turf horses. The prestigious Hong Kong International Races in December could serve as a perfect stepping stone between Bahrain and a potential return to Saudi Arabia for another tilt at the Neom Turf Cup.
Spirit Dancer's success is a testament not only to Fahey's training acumen but also to the influence of his illustrious sire, Frankel.
"Frankel was a wonderful racehorse. He's proven to be a wonderful sire, and they do get better with age. He is a perfect example of one that's got better with age," Fahey observes.
This late-maturing trait has been vital to Spirit Dancer's development, allowing him to reach his peak performance level at an age when many horses are past their prime. Frankel's influence on the modern Thoroughbred cannot be overstated. Spirit Dancer is a shining example of his sire's ability to produce top-class performers over various distances and surfaces.
The Frankel connection also adds a layer of distinction to Spirit Dancer's accomplishments. As one of the most celebrated racehorses of all time, Frankel's progeny carry high expectations. Spirit Dancer's international success not only fulfils these expectations but also showcases the versatility of Frankel's offspring.
While Spirit Dancer remains the stable star, Fahey is always on the lookout for the next big thing. He mentions Ramazan, a sprinter he's hoping to campaign in the Middle East, particularly eyeing the Saudi Sprint.
"He would probably need to pop up a few pounds. His weight probably needs to be a little bit higher. I am trying to get him out there for the six and a half furlongs," Fahey says.
This forward-thinking approach is characteristic of Fahey, a trainer who has consistently produced top-class performers throughout his career. With over 3,000 winners to his name, including Group One successes, Fahey's ability to identify and nurture talent is well-established.
The trainer's success is not limited to flat racing. His versatility is also evident in his accomplishments over jumps, with Grade One winners adding to his impressive resume. This broad expertise allows Fahey to tailor his approach to each horse's individual needs—a skill that has been crucial in Spirit Dancer's development.
Reflecting on his experiences in the Middle East, Fahey is effusive about the hospitality and the unique atmosphere of racing in the region.
"We get spoiled when we go to the Middle East. So how could we not enjoy it, especially when we won?" he chuckles. "It just put the icing on the cake when he won."
This sentiment encapsulates the allure of international racing – the blend of high-stakes competition, cultural exchange, and the shared passion for the sport that transcends borders. The Arab regional racing circuit, with its lucrative purses and world-class facilities, has become an increasingly important part of the global racing calendar.
For Fahey and his team, these international forays represent more than just a chance at prize money. They offer an opportunity to showcase British racing talent on a global stage and to compete against the best horses from around the world. The experience gained from these international campaigns is invaluable, both for the horses and the humans involved.
As Spirit Dancer prepares to return to Bahrain, the racing world watches with bated breath. Can this late-blooming son of Frankel defend his crown against an even stronger field? Will Sir Alex Ferguson once again experience the thrill of international success?
The challenges ahead are significant. The Bahrain International Trophy has attracted a stellar lineup, with Group One winners from around the globe vying for the US$1 million prize. Spirit Dancer's recent run at Newmarket, while not spectacular, has served its purpose in terms of preparation. Fahey's expertise in bringing horses to peak fitness for their target races will be crucial in the coming weeks.
Beyond Bahrain, the campaign's potential Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia legs present unique challenges. The tight scheduling between these high-profile events will test not only Spirit Dancer's ability but also the logistical prowess of Fahey and his team.
It's evident that with Richard Fahey's expert guidance and the unwavering support of his high-profile owners, Spirit Dancer is poised to continue his remarkable journey on the global stage. As the trainer himself puts it,
"The beauty of our industry is that we can bring joy to every successful man because it's a hard game to conquer."
Spirit Dancer's remarkable ascent from a late-maturing prospect to an international champion serves as a powerful reminder of the rewards that come from patience, persistence, and the pursuit of excellence in Thoroughbred racing.
The next chapter in Spirit Dancer's compelling narrative will be written in the coming months. Whether he adds to his international trophy collection or faces new challenges, his journey from a backward youngster to a globe-trotting star stands as a testament to the magic of Thoroughbred racing. For Richard Fahey, Sir Alex Ferguson, and racing fans around the world, the adventure is just beginning.