Wootton Bassett Colt Delights Haggas With Group 3 Win

Ilaraab (4c Wootton Bassett - Belova, by Soviet Star) maintained an upward curve when gaining a deserved black-type success in the Group 3 St Simon Stakes at Newbury on Saturday.

The William Haggas-trained bay recorded an incredible five straight wins last season, before notching a sixth consecutive success in May and came into Saturday’s contest with two Group 3 thirds to his name. Partnered by regular rider Tom Marquand, he raced towards the back of the field and improved to track the leaders from two furlongs out. Pushed along to lead approaching the final furlong, he was ridden out to score by a length.

“That was great,” Haggas said after the race. “He was always travelling like the winner. I would think that will be him for this year.”

A 200,000gns yearling purchase, Ilaraab is owned by Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum. The son of Wootton Bassett was bred by Mrs Maria Marron.