A day that began with bittersweet moments ended in joy for trainers and owners alike at Kempton Park, as Five Ways delivered a tenacious victory in the Sirenia Stakes, giving Andrew Balding reason to celebrate after a week of mixed fortunes.
Five Ways Shines in Kempton Park Racing Action
The Kingsclere handler had seen hopes falter earlier when Group One contender Kalpana fell short, but the son of Kameko ensured smiles returned as he battled to win the Group Three contest. Always prominent in the six-furlong sprint, Five Ways dug deep to hold off Sirius A—later demoted to third by the stewards—claiming a neck victory over his rivals. Owner Dr John Hobby was elated as the colt added to his last-time-out success at Salisbury.
Balding reflected on the win: “He’s always shown ability in his work, and today it all came together. John Hobby has been a long-time supporter of our yard, so it’s fantastic for him and for the whole team. He’s by Kameko, so there’s plenty to celebrate.”
The drama didn’t stop there. Highclere Thoroughbred Racing enjoyed a memorable day as Drama secured back-to-back victories in the London Sprint Series Final. Just days after seeing their leading horse Merchant ruled out for the season, Drama, trained by James Ferguson and guided by Oisin Murphy, produced a thrilling nose win to mark Murphy’s third triumph of the day.
Highclere Thoroughbred Racing Celebrates Double Victory at Kempton Park
Harry Herbert, racing manager of Highclere, commented: “Drama loves this track. Winning this race two years running is extraordinary. Well done to James, Oisin on his birthday, and the owners who’ve had such fun with him. It’s been a day of mixed emotions, but this makes it all worthwhile.”
Sky Safari added further sparkle for the Balding stable in the London Mile Series Final Handicap. The James Fanshawe-trained filly maintained her unbeaten record on the all-weather, producing a late surge to edge out Local Hero by a neck. Murphy, riding her to victory, claimed his second win of the day.
Highclere Thoroughbred Racing Celebrates Double Victory at Kempton Park
“She’s four out of four on this surface and showed a really strong attitude,” said Tom Fanshawe, assistant trainer. “Oisin was very complimentary, and there’s still plenty of improvement in her. Her future looks very bright.”
Finally, Hughie Morrison’s Caprelo turned the two-mile Try New Improved Acca Boosts Handicap into a display of dominance. The Ulysses gelding, related to Group-level winners Marmelo and Vent De Force, powered clear to win by three lengths, giving Murphy a remarkable fourth success on the card. Morrison hinted that the Cesarewitch at Newmarket could be next if the horse continues to progress.
Caprelo’s impressive performance underlined Kempton Park’s reputation for producing standout performances, with trainers, jockeys, and owners leaving the track with smiles after a day of high drama and thrilling finishes.
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