Churchill Colt Impresses In Group 3 Derby Trial

Sprewell (3c Churchill - Lahaleeb, by Redback) confirmed his class when running out a commanding winner of the Group 3 Derby Trial at Leopardstown on Sunday.

Jessica Harrington’s representative showed promise on both his juvenile starts and appeared better than ever when gaining his maiden victory on return at Naas. Stepping up to ten furlongs in Sunday’s feature, he raced in touch under Shane Foley and was asked to quicken approaching the turn for home. Ridden to lead approaching the final furlong, the bay ran on strongly to win by three lengths.

Speaking after the race, assistant trainer Kate Harrington said, “We’re very, very happy. I know it would be the owner’s dream to go to the English Derby but we’ll see how he comes out of this. France could be an option as he is very good on soft going.”

Sunday’s performance saw Sprewell shorten into 16/1 for the Epsom Derby. The exciting son of Churchill is owned by breeder Mohamed Khalid Mohamed Abdulrahim, for whom he becomes a first Stakes winner out of Lahaleeb.