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| Staff Writer |
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Postmodern has emerged as a leading contender for Royal Ascot after delivering a scintillating debut performance that left connections reaching for superlatives. The Hamad Al Jehani-trained colt stormed to a commanding five-length victory in the novice stakes, immediately impressing racing observers.
The US$432,000 purchase became the first juvenile runner of the season for his trainer, setting an impressively high standard for his stable companions to follow. Under Jamie Spencer's confident handling, the bay colt dominated a field that included the Godolphin newcomer Silent Applause.
Wathnan Racing's Richard Brown expressed his delight at the performance, stating, "That was very exciting. I'm delighted for Hamad and his team as they've done a great job with him. He'd done some nice work at home but he hadn't been asked to do too much, so we thought he'd run well, but we weren't expecting that at all."
The novice contest had appeared competitive on paper, with Silent Applause attracting considerable attention as a US$2.24-million purchase. However, Postmodern emerged as the standout performer, prompting immediate speculation about his Royal Ascot prospects.
Brown continued his assessment of the victory. "It looked like a good race. I've not spoken to Jamie or Hamad yet but it's hard not to be excited by the way he won. Without a shadow of a doubt he's one of our exciting juveniles. It's rare they go and win like that and I imagine he'd go straight to the Coventry Stakes now."he stated.
The colt's impressive debut has firmly established him among the leading juvenile prospects for the season, with connections now planning a potential campaign during Royal Ascot's prestigious meeting.
Elsewhere on the card, Hidden Pearl provided trainer John Berry with a timely boost, securing a memorable victory. The 9YO mare stretched clear by three and three-quarter lengths from her stablemate Dereham, with Wannabeawallaby completing the frame.
The success marked Berry's first winner since October, providing the Newmarket-based trainer with welcome relief after a lean spell. Taryn Langley partnered the mare to victory, demonstrating her skill as an emerging rider.
Postmodern's debut performance has established him among the leading contenders for the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot, with his connections now planning the colt's next steps carefully. The manner of his victory, combined with his impressive pedigree and purchase price, suggests he possesses the quality required to compete at the highest level.
The victory represents another significant success for Wathnan Racing, continuing their impressive record of identifying and developing talented horses for major competitions throughout the season.