It has felt like a long wait.
Then the first two-year-old race of the season appeared at Doncaster's Lincoln meeting. The Brocklesby started proceedings and it was great to see Eve Johnson Hought's Chipotle (red and black silks) run out a comprehensive winner. This son of Havana Gold looks to be an inspired purchase costing just 10,000 guineas (4,500g foal). Owners The Woodway 20 have a potentially smart colt on their hands.
Chipotle was pretty streetwise for his debut over the five-furlong straight and cruised up on the outside of the field to pull clear by two-and-a-quarter lengths from Wonderful World (Mick Channon) & Makalu (Kevin Ryan). Charles Bishop rode a nice race on this April foal.
There have been many and varied winners of the Brocklesby Stakes. For instance there have been a number of horses (some very talented) who have never won again, while the likes of Hearts Of Fire & The Last Lion who have won at the highest level.
Chipotle's victory detailed a potentially smart horse. I was struck by the physicality of this colt who has size and scope to progress with racing and should defy a win penalty. Most two-year-olds winners under a penalty compete at pattern class. Although not wanting to get ahead of ourselves, it would be no surprise to see this colt earmarked for the Lily Agnes Stakes and thoughts of Royal Ascot.
Good luck to connections.
First runner in the Brocklesby is a WINNER! great work from #teamWoodway to get Chipotle ready to win first time out. #winners https://t.co/H5fgif2Qb3
— Eve Johnson Houghton (@johnsonhoughton) March 27, 2021