Breeders’ Cup on the Horizon for New Century After Salisbury Triumph

Qatar Racing’s New Century is on course for a potential shot at the Breeders’ Cup after securing a dominant victory in the Listed Stonehenge Stakes at Salisbury last week. The Andrew Balding-trained colt continues to build an impressive resume in his juvenile campaign, marking himself as a serious prospect for the future.

A son of Qatar Racing’s Group One-winning stallion Kameko, New Century has shown considerable promise this season. His front-running success at Salisbury was his third win from five starts, having previously scored at Doncaster and displayed solid performances in defeat, including two commendable efforts behind the highly regarded Al Qudra.

In the three-runner Stonehenge Stakes, New Century took control from the outset, leading the field from start to finish and confirming his status as a rising star. His victory at Salisbury has not only cemented his position as a key flagbearer for Kameko’s progeny but has also opened the door to exciting international targets.

Qatar Racing’s David Redvers expressed his satisfaction with the colt’s progress and hinted at a possible trans-Atlantic adventure. “It was a very important win for the operation at Salisbury and very pleasing for everybody,” Redvers said. “He’s a horse with what looks like a big future and a great advert for his sire. We are very excited about where we can go with him and what we can do.”

One of the most tantalizing options on the table is a trip to Del Mar for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf, a race Sheikh Fahad has set his sights on. Redvers confirmed that discussions are ongoing between Sheikh Fahad and trainer Andrew Balding, with the Breeders’ Cup being a key consideration for the colt’s next outing.

“Sheikh Fahad is discussing all sorts of options for him, including the Breeders’ Cup,” Redvers added. “I think that (Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf) is a race Sheikh Fahad is very keen to target with him, but he and Andrew are conversing as we speak.”

New Century’s win at Salisbury underlines his ability to perform on the big stage, and the potential trans-Atlantic journey would provide a fitting challenge for a horse with such promise. With his powerful front-running style and proven ability to see off quality opposition, he could be a formidable contender if connections decide to take the plunge and target the prestigious American meeting.

As the discussions continue, it’s clear that New Century has all the makings of a top-class colt, and his future looks bright whether he stays closer to home or takes on the world in pursuit of Breeders’ Cup glory later this year.