Ballydoyle Colt Smashes Track Record In Acomb Stakes

The Lion In Winter (2c Sea The Stars – What A Home, by Lope De Vega) shot to 2,000 Guineas and Derby favouritism with an ultra-impressive success in Tuesday’s Group 3 Acomb Stakes.

Aidan O’Brien’s charge ran out a stylish winner at the Curragh on debut last month and enjoyed a form boost when the third Ides Of March eased clear at the track next time out. The bay was partnered by Ryan Moore on Wednesday and raced prominently throughout, improving to lead from three furlongs out. Pushed along after the two furlong pole, he kept on well to win by a length and three quarters, and smashed the track record in a time of 1m 21.58s.

“He's always been a lovely, straightforward, uncomplicated horse,” O’Brien commented. “Ryan gave him a very uncomplicated, straightforward ride. He didn't even touch him with the stick. He broke the track record so obviously he's a very smart colt. We couldn't be happier.”