Sent off at 9-2, Nan’s Choice travelled kindly throughout before asserting in the closing stages to score by a length and a half. Though still learning her craft, she showed both resilience and promise when it mattered most, responding gamely once asked for her effort.
Trainer Dan Skelton admitted afterwards that expectations had been measured coming into the race. With the mare making her first start for the yard, she remained something of an unknown quantity.
“That’s her first run for us and we didn’t really know an awful lot about her, to be honest,” he said. “We haven’t done that much with her as she’s quite a light-framed filly, but we felt she would appreciate decent ground.”
Despite showing signs of greenness once hitting the front, Nan’s Choice held her advantage with authority. Skelton was quick to underline the impression she had made at home, even without being subjected to strenuous preparation.
“When she hit the front she ran around a bit, but she’s a lovely mare. I hadn’t asked her for anything extravagant at home, but she’s always looked like she had ability. I’d say she has a big future.”
In the saddle, Harry Skelton echoed that sentiment, crediting the mare’s straightforward temperament and toughness as key factors in her success.
Nan’s Choice Shows Class in Closing Stages
“She’s very uncomplicated,” he noted. “I haven’t ridden her much at home, but Sean O’Connor, who does, was very positive about her. He said she felt smart, and she’s proved that on the track.”
The rider admitted to a brief moment of concern approaching the final furlong, as Nan’s Choice appeared to hesitate after taking the lead, but she quickly regained focus and powered to the line.
“I thought for a moment she might get caught when she had a look around, but she was very game. Considering the atmosphere and the bigger crowd compared to what she’s experienced before, she handled it well and still won with something in hand.”
Having previously succeeded on testing ground, this performance on a sounder surface added another dimension to her profile. Her ability to adapt, coupled with a willing attitude, suggests connections have every reason to look ahead with confidence.
Nan’s Choice now emerges from the contest as a mare of considerable potential, one who may yet develop into a notable performer in this division as the season progresses.
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