Taghrooda topples Telescope in King George
The 2014 running of the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes went to John Gosden’s filly Taghrooda (7/2), who remains unbeaten in four races.
It was a strongly run race, with a good pace set by Leitir Mor and Taghrooda was at the back of the field for much of the contest. But she made good progress through the field in the home straight under Paul Hanagan, who is having a dream season.
As a three-year-old filly, Taghrooda received a substantial weight allowance from several of her older, male rivals and this could have made all the difference. The favourite Telescope (5/2f) carried 9-7 to the filly’s 8-6 and the winning distance was three lengths at the post.
Haggas fires in the winners
Trainer William Haggas had winners across the country on Saturday an added five victories to his tally for the season.
Zaraee (5/2jf) kicked things off at Newcastle (2.30), then Mange All (10/1) won the one-mile handicap at Ascot (2.40). These wins were followed by the impressive Muthmir (4/1f) and Valley Of Fire (9/2) at York (3.30 & 4.05).
Daydreamer (7/4f) rounded off a successful day in the in 8.05 at Lingfield. Before the race Daydreamer was the only horse in Haggas’ stable rated below 70. The eight-length win will likely take the gelding above that mark.
Mark Johnston was not far behind with three winners around the UK, including Heavy Metal (33/1) in the valuable Longines International Stakes at Ascot. It bodes well for Glorious Goodwood next week.
