When the wind and rain of Storm Amy swept across Newmarket, few were as grateful as trainer Karl Burke. For him, it was a blessing — the weather that rescued his brilliant mare Fallen Angel. And under softened skies and a forgiving track, the four-year-old filly delivered yet another masterclass, powering to victory in the Sun Chariot Stakes (Group 1).
The prestigious mile contest for fillies and mares became a showcase of class and determination. Ridden positively by James Doyle, Fallen Angel (11-4) went straight to the front from stall three and dictated the race from the outset. Blue Bolt (17-2) threw down a challenge inside the final furlong, but the grey filly refused to yield, staying on strongly for a two-and-a-quarter-length success. There was a further four and a half lengths back to Cinderella’s Dream (11-8 favourite) in third.
“Storm Amy saved the day”
Burke, who has enjoyed a remarkable season, was full of relief after the race.
“The ground was so quick at Ascot, and she just didn’t let herself down there,” he explained. “As long as there’s no jar, she’s fine — but when it’s firm, she won’t show her best. I was hopeful today, but I wouldn’t have predicted three Group Ones in a row.”
The timing of Storm Amy proved crucial, turning the track from firm to forgiving just in time. “Last week Richard Brown (racing manager for Wathnan Racing) said we couldn’t run her on good to firm ground. Then that nice Storm Amy came along to save the day!” Burke added with a smile.
Fifth Group One and counting
This latest success marked Fallen Angel’s third consecutive Group One victory of 2025 — and her fifth overall. The Too Darn Hot filly, who races in the gold and maroon silks of Wathnan Racing, has been on a roll, following impressive wins at Deauville and Leopardstown earlier in the season.
Burke credited a key equipment change for sharpening her focus this year. “She got a bit idle at home,” he said. “The cheekpieces helped bring her back to her best. She’s a tough mare — aggressive in her style — and she loves a good fight. Letting her stride freely is what brings out her brilliance.”
Doyle: “She galloped them into the ground”
Winning jockey James Doyle was effusive in his praise for the filly’s determination and rhythm.
“She gives you everything,” he said. “She’s a relentless galloper over a mile, and the ground suited her perfectly. When Blue Bolt came to challenge, it helped her stay focused — she’s a fighter and doesn’t like being passed.”
Doyle added, “These are the moments you ride for — big races, big performances. I’m delighted for Karl Burke and the Wathnan team. They’ve done an incredible job with her.”
Next stop: Queen Elizabeth II Stakes
The victory sets up an exciting new challenge, as Fallen Angel is now bound for the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (Group 1) on QIPCO British Champions Day at Ascot, where she’ll take on the colts for the first time. Burke also confirmed plans to keep her in training next season.
“Ascot is the plan,” he said. “If she finishes the season sound, she’ll stay in training next year. Wathnan Racing are building something special, and to have a mare like her leading the way is a privilege.”
Burke hinted that a step up in trip could be on the cards next season. “I think she’s really a mile-and-a-quarter filly. Something like the Prix Jean Romanet at Deauville might be perfect — she’s happiest when she’s allowed to roll along in front.”
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