Gold at Gosforth Park

Wed 01 Dec 2021

WINNER 101 OF 2021: STAR SHIELD, trained by David O'Meara and ridden by Connor Beasley: 'The MansionBet Proud Partners Of AWC Handicap' over 1m at Newcastle.

Held up, towards the rear, he was still going easily over 2f out. Connor gave him the shake up and the pair began to make headway, although they came across some closing gaps in the process! A brave route saw him move up to dispute the lead inside the final furlong, with a strong drive from Connor, he prevailed in the photo, by a nose!

A 5th career win and the 4th in our silks. This year he has had some close ones, with three 2nd places and yesterday, he really put his head down and was brave in the finish.

Watch the full race replay here: https://www.attheraces.com/racecard/Newcastle/30-November-2021/1715

Timeform rated it as an 89 performance, saying: "Was suited by a well-run race and confirmed promise of last run to gain first success of the season, ultimately pretty consistent for all his win record isn't what it might be, certainly having every chance to shirk this if so desired; mid-field, travelled well, had to wait for gap under 2f out, disputed lead inside final 1f, edged ahead line.”

Connor said in his Sky Sports Racing interview: "David said to ride him cold and once he starts passing horses, he gets more and more confident. He really stuck his neck out there!”

See the official photo gallery here: https://www.grossick.co.uk/p/80532khg/C385287605/newcastle-30th-november-2021

Syndicate manager Mike says: "Phew! That was close, but he deserved that after some good runs this year. Delighted for his owners, who got a name check on Sky Sports Racing by Leonna Mayor, so were clearly in good spirits. A great way to finish November, as it takes us closer to our goal of passing the syndicate record for winners in a calendar year.”