Flying The Flag
Fri 23 Jun 2023
WINNER 53 OF 2023: BLUEFLAGFLYINGHIGH, trained by Michael Bell and ridden by Jack Garritty: 'The Kirby Thomas Final Furlong Handicap' over 1m 2f at Ripon.
Drawn to the outer in 10, he was ridden away and it took 2 furlongs until he was able to come across to the front. He took them along, looking comfortable and as they came to the 3 furlong marker, there were plenty being urged along in behind. Jack asked him to quicken away from them and he duly did, going clear and was just ridden out in the final 110yds, staying on well, to win comfortably by 3 and 3/4 lengths.
"Blueflagflyinghigh staying on resolutely, to win by 3." Watch the full race replay here: https://www.attheraces.com/racecard/Ripon/22-June-2023/1645
Timeform rated it as a career best 85, saying: "Showed improved form to get off the mark, though was seen to maximum effect; ridden soon after start, led after 1f, quickened clear 2f out, kept up to work.”
See the official photo gallery here: https://louisepollard.co.uk/album.php?id=1059
Syndicate manager Tim says: "Well done to his owners on that emphatic victory. He loved bowling along out in front and the plan worked! He showed a fantastic attitude and head carriage to get off the mark. We'll see how he is in a day or two then decide where to go next.
We do like Starspanglebanner as a sire and it is perfect timing, as we have a 2 year-old colt we purchased at the breeze ups, who is ready to run and is also trained by Michael! He has two entries for his debut next week and goes well at home. Called RED ZONE HERO - the last 10% of shares are available, here: https://www.middlehamparkracing.net/horses/view,red-zone-hero-a-breeze-up-colt-by-starspangledbanner_1512.htm"
....and no, we haven't forgotten about MALC's super 2nd in Group 2 The Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot yesterday! We will be doing a review of the week after tomorrow's racing.