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| Staff Writer |
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Big Evs, the Mick Appleby-trained speedster, is continuing his trainer's remarkable run at the Qatar Goodwood Festival, storming to victory in the Gr.2 King George Qatar Stakes. The entire, under the skilled guidance of Tom Marquand, is showcasing his trademark early pace and tenacity to edge out Australian mare Asfoora by a short head, with Believing finishing three-quarters of a length behind in third.
This victory is marking Appleby's fourth win of the meeting, underlining his exceptional form. The Rutland-based trainer is beaming with pride, declaring: "Big Evs is one in a million – the best I've trained by a long way. That was very good. I thought they were going to come and do us at the end, but he's very tough and found a bit more."
Reflecting on his successful week, Appleby is adding: "It is unbelievable really, to think where I was 10-15 years ago to where we are now. We have some great owners now that support the yard – they spend the money and I get results like this."
Jockey Tom Marquand is praising Big Evs' raw speed and determination: "He's literally got too much speed! He just doesn't want restraining. He's got so much raw boot and trying to tame that, it almost feels like there is no point, because he grits down for you as well in that last 100 yards."
With this impressive display, connections are eyeing future targets. Appleby is hinting at potential runs in the Nunthorpe Stakes at York and the Prix de l'Abbaye at Longchamp, with a return to America also on the cards. Marquand is enthusiastic about the York option, stating: "It is another track that suits him beautifully – he has shown that before."
In a thrilling undercard, local trainer David Menuisier is celebrating as Toimy Son overcomes the widest draw to claim the Coral Golden Mile Handicap. The entire, ridden by Oisin Murphy, is storming home by two lengths, defying expectations after a challenging start to his career. Menuisier is emotional post-race, sharing the horse's remarkable journey: "He had a couple of colic operations and nearly died, so we had to give him time." This victory is not just a win, but a testament to the horse's resilience and the team's unwavering faith.
As the Qatar Goodwood Festival continues to unfold, Big Evs' electrifying performance in the King George Qatar Stakes is standing out as a highlight. With Appleby's stable in red-hot form and exciting targets on the horizon, the racing world is eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this exceptional sprinter's career.