Enable demonstrated her brilliance after making an incredible seasonal debut in the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown that left everyone in awe.
The John Gosden-trained horse was only a third of her sex to ever conquer a mile-and-a-quarter showpiece behind Kooyonga in 1992, and Pebbles in 1985, which was done with style after registering her eight Group One victory.
Frankie Dettori also earned a 4-6 favorite during the ideal pitch which was a runner-up place behind the Aidan-O’Brien-trained bet, Hunting Horn, before looking for the dual Prix de’Arc de Triomphe heroine to pursue and win the race.
Albeit being its first start since the Breeder’s Cup, the filly had the elegance and grace to overcome any race-rustiness that came here way just to defeat her old rival Magical by three-quarters of a length, which was an asset to the O’Brien team. Regal Reality was also seen two lengths back in third place.
It was the fourth time for Gosden to dominate the race. In an interview, he mentioned that they prepared long for the event, that “she’s only started coming to herself the last two weeks and quite frankly she’s come here at 85 per cent (fit) maybe 90.”
The trainer was concerned about the previous furlong and he told Frankie that if the horse gets tired, there is a need to look after her. After all, it isn’t prep, it’s an Eclipse which is like getting ready for the rest of the year.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled with her.”
Frankie was happy with the place he was in and she has always been an exceptional athlete – coming from an eight-month lay-off to snatching an Eclipse which is not easy to do.
They did not go for racecourse gallops because they trained the horse at home and she had to do everything by herself. Hence, they disclosed their next plan – King George.
He even added that she has been training well way back in their home. They are confident with the filly and happy too which the trainer proudly announced at Saint-Cloud the previous week.
The horse has been better over a mile and a half. During the competition, Hunting Horn was a good friend to her and she set a nice pace.
“We just sat there and Frankie, when he pressed the button one and a half out, put the race to bed.”
They witnessed the brilliant mare in second and they were amazed for a filly has not won this far after Kooyonga which was a one-three that speaks a lot about Magical. With this, they became hopeful that she will bring the team to King George, York, and even Longchamp. These are included in their plan because the four races have always been the ingredient to a good start.
Dettori, who was about to fly in dismount form commented that they have drawn eight and they had the best spot, “I didn’t have to panic and it went exactly how I thought it would.”
The horse is uncomplicated. The turn of events has been funny as they headed for home to grab the bit and persevere. But they are aware that it is useful to wait, which is why they settled for the two-furlong pole first.
“I think I was the last one off the bridle and she has so many gears and has got that unbelievable will to win. She has got size and scope and she’s got the stride.”
O’Brien said of Enable:
“Enable is a great filly, beautifully trained, beautifully bred, beautifully ridden. It’s a privilege to be here to see her.”
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