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| Staff Writer |
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Owen Burrows is plotting his rematch mission after Anmaat narrowly lost to Los Angeles in Sunday's Gold Cup at the Curragh, with the trainer targeting the Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot for a potential form reversal.
The 7YO, who sprang a shock at odds when landing the Champion Stakes at Ascot in October, again exceeded expectations in Ireland despite lacking race fitness. Anmaat was ultimately beaten by half a length in a thrilling finish, but Burrows remains optimistic about future encounters.
"He travelled back yesterday and he didn't get back until 7pm, but I saw him last night and briefly this morning and he looks bright and well," Burrows said after his Derby contender Al Wasl Storm had galloped at Epsom on Tuesday.
The trainer acknowledged his charge needed the outing after a lengthy absence from competitive action. "It was always our worry he was going to just need the run in a race of that quality. He backed up his Champion Stakes win and just got tired in the last half furlong. I was massively impressed with him. He'd had a racecourse gallop, but he hadn't galloped on the grass all spring."
Burrows confirmed Royal Ascot remains the primary target, though ground conditions will determine the final decision. "Unless it's very fast, it's all systems go for the Prince of Wales's. We'd probably wait for the Eclipse if the ground was unsuitable at Ascot, but if the ground is okay he could do both. I'll look forward to taking them on again at Ascot."
The trainer spoke with jockey Ryan Moore following the Curragh contest, gaining valuable insight into the opposition. "I spoke to Ryan Moore afterwards and he said Los Angeles is a very good horse. I respect him massively, but he'd had a run and we'd go into the race very hopeful of reversing the form."
Burrows, renowned for developing older horses, believes Anmaat could eclipse Hukum as his finest training achievement. "It's hugely exciting. He's seven now and I don't think I've trained one like him. Hukum was six. That's what we wanted to see on Sunday, with him showing all his enthusiasm.
"You don't see many horses travel as strongly as that in a Group One, and the time was quick, so it was a proper race. He's still got a few pounds to find on ratings with Hukum, but he might be the best I've trained come the end of the season."