Churchill Colt Impresses At Doncaster

Encountered (2c Churchill - Enrol, by Pivotal) shaped like a smart colt when running out an impressive winner of the seven furlong novice stakes at Doncaster on Friday.

A promising third on debut last month, the Marco Botto-trained bay was sent off joint-favourite under Daniel Muscutt, who rode him to make all. Joined by fellow market leader Implore with two furlongs left to race, Encountered went clear when asked and scored by four lengths on the line, with another three and three quarter lengths back to the third horse.

A step up in grade may now be on the cards for Encountered, who runs in the colours of Ben CM Wong. Bred by Rabbah Bloodstock, the first crop son of Churchill was purchased by Suzanne Roberts as a yearling for 160,000gns. Encountered is bred on the same cross as Ballydoyle’s impressive maiden winner The Acropolis (Churchill).