Shaftesbury Avenue

Leaving his debut education far behind him on Monday, Ballydoyle's $1million Keeneland September sensation Shaftesbury Avenue (Maxfield) imposed his considerable presence on his maiden at Navan. Fitted with cheekpieces following his third at The Curragh earlier this month, the 2-1 second favourite was sent forward by Wayne Lordan to put it up to his 14 rivals in the near-mile contest and had seen off all bar Tashakour (Night Of Thunder) approaching the final two furlongs. Briefly headed by that Aga Khan Studs representative, the imposing half-brother to Not This Time's triple Grade...

Observations on the European Racing Scene turns the spotlight on the best European races of the day, highlighting well-bred horses early in their careers, horses of note returning to action and young runners that achieved notable results in the sales ring. Sunday's Observations features a half-brother to the multiple Grade I-winning sire Up To The Mark. 16.55 Curragh, €20,000, Mdn, 3yo/up, c/g, 8fT Aidan O'Brien entry SHAFTESBURY AVENUE (Maxfield) is a $1-million Keeneland September acquisition and half-brother to multiple Grade I-winning sire Up To The Mark (Not This Time). His...