Burrows optimistic once-raced Talaayeb can build on maiden win

3.35 Newmarket
Qipco 1,000 Guineas | 1m, 3yo | ITV/RUK

It is easy to forget the impression created by Talaayeb when she won her maiden on her only start to date late last year, but she was arguably among the most eyecatching two-year-olds of the autumn.

Carrying the second colours of her owner Hamdan Al Maktoum, Talaayeb moved stylishly to the front of the seven-furlong contest at Newmarket before quickening away in a manner that suggests a mile will prove no barrier to success.

The form of that race has not worked out as connections might have hoped, and perhaps as a consequence the buzz surrounding her has somewhat diminished.

That is of no concern to trainer Owen Burrows though and he has been delighted with the filly's preparation for the big day, having taken her back to the Rowley Mile for a racecourse gallop during last month's Craven meeting.

"We've been very pleased with her since her gallop and it's all systems go," said Burrows. "She needs to get into a nice rhythm but there should be plenty of pace around her in 11 and it certainly helps that she's been there before."

Paul Hanagan, who was then the retained rider for Sheikh Hamdan, sided with the Charlie Hills-trained Neshmeya in September but Burrows said the jockey had agonised over the decision in the days before the race.

"She had always shown plenty in her work and Paul had a tough time picking which filly to ride in the race," said Burrows.

"I was expecting a big run from her that day but I suppose I was a bit surprised by the manner of the win."

Pros Boasts winning form at the Rowley Mile and looks like a certain stayer

Cons Lack of experience compared to some of the major players and maiden form is not working out well