Group 1 winner Saffron Beach (Ire) (New Bay {GB}) is targeting the G1 Dubai Turf on Mar. 26. Trained by Jane Chapple-Hyam, the chestnut won both her starts at two, including the G3 Oh So Sharp S. She resumed last April with a second in the G3 Nell Gwyn S. and was runner-up to Mother Earth (Ire) (Zoffany {Ire}) in the G1 1000 Guineas on May 2. Off the board in the G1 Oaks and G1 Falmouth S. in June and July, respectively, the Sangster family and J. Wigan colourbearer bounced back to take the G3 Atalanta S. at Sandown on Aug. 21. Her latest effort was a win going a mile in the G1 Sun Chariot S. on Oct. 2.
“She had eight weeks out at grass since her last run and she started trotting back yesterday with a view to getting her ready for the Dubai Turf,” said Chapple-Hyam. “I discussed things with the owners over the last few weeks. It is a very hard programme for the 4-year-olds early on and this seemed a good option before looking at some of the mile races back in the UK and other options abroad.”
She added, “We don't know if she will take to the travelling until you try it but I think she will as she has matured and grown up a lot. The track should be perfect for her. Her only time going left-handed around a turn at Epsom was a disaster but a line can be put through that run.
“Although it was going the other way when she won at Sandown it was achieved going around a turn. She should be fine as she is a well-balanced filly.”
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