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| Staff Writer |
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Bradsell has emphatically staked his claim as Europe's premier sprinter, backing up his blistering Nunthorpe success with a dominant display in the Gr.1 Flying Five at the Curragh. The Archie Watson-trained colt, piloted by the ever-reliable Hollie Doyle, left no doubt about his credentials as he stormed to victory in the US$475,000 contest.
The son of Tasleet has been on a meteoric rise since his juvenile days. After capturing the Group Two Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot last year, Bradsell has gone from strength to strength. His CV now boasts victories in three of the most prestigious sprint races on the calendar: the King's Stand Stakes, the Nunthorpe, and the Flying Five.
Previous winners of the Flying Five have gone on to achieve great things, with the likes of Sole Power and Moviesta using this race as a springboard to international success. Bradsell now joins this illustrious list, with connections eyeing even greater heights.
Reflecting on the performance, a jubilant Watson said: "It was pretty easy watching and there wasn't really a moment where you had any worries. He was imperious. He never looked like being beaten. He kicked clear and he's done it very well."
The Lambourn handler added: "I was surprised he wasn't favourite for the Nunthorpe and was surprised this morning when there was a bit of negativity about the horse. I thought he was by far the best sprinter around and I hope that he's showing people that he is."
With Bradsell's Flying Five triumph securing him a spot in the US$1 million Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint via the "Win and You're In" series, Watson is keen to test his charge on the international stage.
"There are two further races which are a possibility," he revealed. "There is the Abbaye, although I wouldn't want it to be horrible ground or for him to be drawn 'stupid'. There is also the Breeders' Cup at Santa Anita, which should be right up his street, as it is a very quick five. One or both of those, all being well, would be the plan."
Jockey Hollie Doyle, who has formed a formidable partnership with Bradsell, was effusive in her praise: "His track record here hasn't been great, so that was a bit of a worry, but he's proven today he's one of the best sprinters in Europe. You can put him where you want, he's got a good turn of foot, and he tries very hard."
While Bradsell basked in the limelight, Believing had to settle for the runner-up spot once more. The consistent performer has now finished third in the Qatar Stakes at Goodwood and second in both the Nunthorpe and the Flying Five. Drawn in stall one, Believing's task was made all the more difficult, with the winner breaking from stall 14.
In a season where the average starting price of the six Group One sprint winners in Britain has been 10-1, Bradsell stands out as a beacon of consistency and class. His Flying Five victory, following hot on the heels of his Nunthorpe success, elevates him to the pinnacle of European sprinting.
As the racing world turns its attention to the autumn internationals, Bradsell appears poised to fly the flag for European sprinting on the global stage. With Santa Anita beckoning, this speed sensation may yet add a transatlantic triumph to his already glittering résumé.