Blue impresses

Thu 08 Jan 2026

Winner 3 of 2026: BLUE EMPRESS, trained by Archie Watson and ridden by Harry Vigors (7).  The ‘Best Odds Guaranteed At BetMGM Handicap’ over 7f at Lingfield.

There is arguably no more deserving horse on our roster of getting their head in front than Blue Empress, finishing runner-up on no fewer than five occasions and placed third a further three times, before she got her head in front under a cool Harry Vigors drive, in turn providing him with his second winner under rules.

Stepping a shade slowly didn’t prove a hindrance to her as she was able to track, get a lovely position, and just follow the pace through, and coming into the home straight, she got a lovely split up the rail where she kicked a few lengths clear to settle the race in a matter of strides.

You don’t always get what you deserve in this game, and both her and her owners deserved to taste that sweet taste of victory, and when you’ve knocked on the door as often as she has, it tasted just that bit sweeter.

Well done to Archie and his team at Saxon Gate for keeping her in such consistent form and always looking immaculate. A particular mention to her owners, who kept the faith in her, knowing there was a win in her, and who were fully vindicated in their support.

Watch her full race replay here: https://www.attheraces.com/racecard/Lingfield/07-January-2026/1505

Timeform rated her victory with a p69, commented: "Finally got off the mark having been placed 8 times previously, not needing to improve under her inexperienced rider who continues to impress from little more than a handful of rides; slowly into stride, mid-field, pushed along 2f out, led over 1f out, driven out."

Listen to Harry's thoughts about his victory on Blue Empress:

Syndicate Manager Tom Palin on her success: "Well done to our owners on a brilliant success from the filly, and for keeping the faith. She was cursed with a bad draw on so many occasions, but we knew there was a win in her; we just needed the right set-up and passage through. Delighted for our owners, young apprentice Harry Vigors, for giving our filly a great ride, and everyone at Saxon Gate. Incredibly well deserved."

To view and purchase her winning photos, please follow the link below: https://lingfieldracingpix.zenfoliosite.com/galleries/2026/january?ct=3