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Dr Richard Newland and Jamie Insole are poised to break new ground as their burgeoning partnership embarks on its first international venture with Witness Stand in the Gr.2 1351 Turf Sprint at King Abdulaziz Racecourse.
The US$2 million contest, sponsored by Saudi National Bank, represents a bold step for the Worcestershire operation, who acquired the 4YO for US$157,000 at Tattersalls last autumn. They will face stiff competition from defending champion Annaf in the 1,351-metre event.
Having joined forces with Grand National-winning Newland in late 2023, Insole, who specialises in 2YOs, is keen to showcase their yard's versatility. "It's a huge step," he said. "Last year we showed we could improve older horses and develop 2YOs.
"Now we want to prove we can compete on the biggest stage and attract international owners. This race is fully funded, so it's a free hit at big prize money. Even finishing sixth would bring home US$62,500."
The son of Expert Eye has been sharpened up at home, completing vital preparation at Wolverhampton. His autumn form, including a commanding Listed success at Newbury, suggests he could be a serious contender over this specialist trip.
Insole is bullish about conditions suiting his charge: "The trip is perfect for him in a race that brings together 1000 and 1200 metre sprinters and 1800 metre horses dropping back in distance. He's shown good form on quick ground at Goodwood so that holds no concern."
The application of cheekpieces proved transformative last autumn, and connections are maintaining the successful formula. "They've sharpened him up and he's worked well at home in them, so we see no reason to change what's proven to be successful," Insole added.
Keiran Shoemark, who steered Witness Stand to glory at Glorious Goodwood, renews the partnership in Riyadh. The jockey said: "He's done a couple of pieces of work at Wolverhampton, and I'm happy with where he is at this stage.
"The quick ground and track in Saudi won't be an issue—he's incredibly versatile both in terms of ground and trip. All he did last year was improve in a short space of time, and with his rating of 114, he fully deserves his place in this field."