Haatem Shows Class In Wolferton Stakes Victory

Quality Performance Justifies Bold Trip Extension

The victory represented a significant step forward for the Wathnan Racing-owned runner, who had struggled to recapture his best form in recent outings. Hannon expressed his delight with the performance, highlighting the horse's affordable purchase price of 27,000 guineas as proof that quality racehorses remain accessible to smaller owners. "Haatem is an amazing horse. He has been a pleasure to be a part of, for me, for old connections, new connections, and James loves him. He is just one of those horses who is the reason you own and train horses," Hannon explained. The trainer revealed his concerns about stepping up in distance, admitting uncertainty whether extending the trip was the correct decision. However, the horse's impressive home work during the week provided confidence heading into the Royal Ascot opener.

Jockey Praises Team Effort Following Injury Recovery

Doyle praised the training performance in bringing Haatem back from a serious injury sustained last season. The jockey acknowledged the pressure associated with riding for Wathnan Racing at their target meeting, expressing relief at securing an early winner. "First and foremost, well done to Richard Hannon and his team. Haatem had a nasty enough injury last year and they've done a great job to get him back," Doyle commented. The rider noted the horse's tendency to over-race during the early stages, suggesting improvement remains possible should connections pursue similar assignments. Doyle indicated that while Haatem demonstrated his quality against this level of opposition, enhanced performance would be required when facing stronger competition over the extended distance.

Quality Performance Justifies Bold Trip Extension

The victory represented a significant step forward for the Wathnan Racing-owned runner, who had struggled to recapture his best form in recent outings. Hannon expressed his delight with the performance, highlighting the horse's affordable purchase price of 27,000 guineas as proof that quality racehorses remain accessible to smaller owners. "Haatem is an amazing horse. He has been a pleasure to be a part of, for me, for old connections, new connections, and James loves him. He is just one of those horses who is the reason you own and train horses," Hannon explained. The trainer revealed his concerns about stepping up in distance, admitting uncertainty whether extending the trip was the correct decision. However, the horse's impressive home work during the week provided confidence heading into the Royal Ascot opener.
Jockey Praises Team Effort Following Injury Recovery
Doyle praised the training performance in bringing Haatem back from a serious injury sustained last season. The jockey acknowledged the pressure associated with riding for Wathnan Racing at their target meeting, expressing relief at securing an early winner. "First and foremost, well done to Richard Hannon and his team. Haatem had a nasty enough injury last year and they've done a great job to get him back," Doyle commented. The rider noted the horse's tendency to over-race during the early stages, suggesting improvement remains possible should connections pursue similar assignments. Doyle indicated that while Haatem demonstrated his quality against this level of opposition, enhanced performance would be required when facing stronger competition over the extended distance.