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'She's got so much speed' - Crisfords target major sprint prize with Flotus

Flotus: will aim for a first Group 1 success in the Nunthorpe Stakes next month
Flotus: will aim for a first Group 1 success in the Nunthorpe Stakes next monthCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

Flotus will skip Goodwood for York and Ed Crisford believes the Coolmore Wootton Bassett Nunthorpe Stakes could be the perfect fit for the speedy filly.

Runner-up in the Cheveley Park Stakes last year and third in this year's Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot, the daughter of Starspangledbanner picked up her first Group victory when an impressive winner of the Summer Stakes at York on Friday.

Her cosy success saw her become the general 5-1 second favourite for the King George Qatar Stakes at Glorious Goodwood but Crisford said she will skip that and instead return to the Knavesmire for the Group 1 next month.

Crisford, who trains alongside father Simon, said: "She bounced out of her race on Friday. She's had four tough races so we'll probably give her a little summer break and bring her back for the Nunthorpe. Silvestre [de Sousa, jockey] thought five furlongs wouldn't be a problem as she's grown up."

Flotus and Silvestre de Sousa: rampant winners on the Knavesmire on Friday
Flotus and Silvestre de Sousa: rampant winners on the Knavesmire on FridayCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

Another flying filly was cut for the Nunthorpe on Saturday, with Royal Aclaim made favourite following her stunning victory in the City Walls Stakes. Crisford, however, thinks Flotus has the natural speed to be competitive in the Ebor meeting's Friday highlight.

Of the general 12-1 chance, he said: "She's got so much tow and speed and jumps out the stalls and goes. She's a big-striding filly and I think the track there over five furlongs should suit her really well."

The filly's success capped a perfect two days at York for the Crisfords, who struck with all three of their runners at the meeting, including further Group-race success with Melbourne Cup hopeful Without A Fight.

The joint-trainer added: "Three runners from three winners, you can't beat that."


Sky Bet: 4 Royal Aclaim, 5 Dramatised, 6 Golden Pal, 8 Highfield Princess, Persian Force, Twilight Calls, 10 Flotus, 12 bar


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Matt RennieReporter

Published on 10 July 2022inNews

Last updated 12:54, 10 July 2022

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