Trainer Owen Burrows has wasted little time in showcasing his training talents, sending out G1 QIPCO 2000 Guineas runner-up Massaat (Ire) (Teofilo {Ire}) in his first few months with a license. The same horse could also provide the rookie trainer with his first G1 Investec Derby challenger next month. The June 4 showpiece is under strong consideration for the colt.
“He was ridden this morning and he seems to have come out of the race fine,” commented Burrows. “He will now have a quiet week before being built back up again. We will see what the boss [Sheikh Hamdan] wants to do and we will chat with the rest of the team, but I certainly wouldn't rule the Derby out.”
Though by Teofilo (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) which would give him every chance of getting 12 furlongs, Massaat is out of the six furlong winner Madany (Ire) (Acclamation {GB}), who has more sprinters than stayers in her pedigree.
“While his breeding suggests that he may struggle to get a mile and a half, there is only one way of finding out, said Burrows. “He relaxes in his races and that gives him every chance of getting the mile and a half. If he does run in the Derby he would go straight there as it comes plenty soon enough.”
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