Wootton Bassett Colt Boosts Classic Claims With Stakes Win

Classic hopeful American Flag (3c Wootton Bassett - Tres Americanqueen, by American Post) made an impressive return to action in the Listed Prix Omnium II at Saint-Cloud on Saturday.

The Yann Barberot-trained colt commanded attention with a six length win over course and distance in November, and was sent off the even-money favourite for Saturday’s competitive contest over a mile. Settled towards the back of the field by Christophe Soumillon, he loomed dangerously upon entering the straight and led approaching the final furlong. Soon clear, he was eased down close home to win by three lengths.

Speaking after the race, Barberot said, “Last year after his win over the course and distance he showed us that he could be a horse with a great potential. He confirmed that today, even though he was not fully fit, having only had an easy piece of work on the grass last Tuesday.”

A step up in class is now on the cards for American Flag, with his trainer naming the Group 3 Prix de Fontainebleau as a possible target. The son of Wootton Bassett also holds entries in the Group 1 Poule D’Essai Des Poulains and Prix du Jockey Club. Owned by Malcolm Parrish, he becomes the first Stakes winner bred by Chevotel De La Hauquerie out of his dam.