Dream Debut
Tue 06 May 2025
Winner 26 of 2025: SAFFRON DANDY, trained by Richard Hannon and ridden by Joe Leavy (3). ‘The Monarch Classic Car Show August 23rd EBF Maiden Stakes’ over 5f at Bath.
Richard was always very fond of our filly by the late Dandy Man, and her work at home has been very positive. The temperatures have dropped over the last few days, but it was still a lovely day for the Bank Holiday race day at Bath with a big crowd in attendance, and Saffron Dandy behaved impeccably and proved ultra-professional on her first day at school. The pair got off to a good start and our filly travelled strongly into the race before showing small signs of greenness, but overcame those quickly and stretched clear to make the perfect start to her career and won by over 2 lengths, with her ears pricked past the winning post. Our second two year old winner in as many days, with Red Savitar also finishing a good 3rd at Kempton on his only second start.
Watch the full race replay here: https://www.attheraces.com/racecard/Bath/05-May-2025/1450
Timeform rated her maiden victory with a 71+, saying: "(€25,000F, £68,000Y: by Dandy Man: sister to useful winner up to 6f The Bell Conductor (2-y-o 5f winner) and 5f/6f winner Fierce and half-sister to 5f/6f winner Bint Saffian (by Arcano): dam unraced) speedily bred, justified short odds first time out; disputed lead, edged ahead under 2f out, asserted final 1f, ridden out; open to improvement."
A very delighted Joe Leavy spoke to Sky Sports Racing after the race: "Her work has been very good at home, and she is just very professional, which of course helps. There was a big crowd today which can be upsetting for young horses, but we got her down to the start fine and she was nice and relaxed before the start. She travelled well, and quickened when I asked her and hit the line very strong, which is great. She is a very talented filly with a good bit of scope, so it's nice that she will have options going forward."
Tim Palin, Racing Manager to Saffron Dandy this morning: "Very well done everyone. Those open maidens and novices are not at all easy to win. She did that well and should improve from the run too. Well done to the Hannon team, who have their horses in great shape."