Ambiente Friendly is ready to shine as he prepares to join an all-star lineup for the Juddmonte International at York next week.
James Fanshawe’s three-year-old, a son of Gleneagles, made a notable impression by winning the Lingfield Derby Trial by four and a half lengths in May, which thrust him into the spotlight for the Epsom Derby. Although he finished as a commendable runner-up to Aidan O’Brien’s City Of Troy, Ambiente Friendly showed his potential under Robert Havlin as a 9-2 shot.
In late June, he was the favourite for the Irish Derby at the Curragh, finishing third, which led connections to consider shortening his distance. Consequently, he skipped the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes and arrived at York refreshed and ready to challenge City Of Troy again, this time over a mile and a quarter.
Ambiente Friendly had a successful workout on Newmarket’s July course on Tuesday morning, according to his connections, who were pleased with the colt’s performance. Tim Gredley, whose family owns the horse, expressed optimism about the upcoming race.
Tim Gredley remarked that Ambiente Friendly worked very well that morning, and Rab was thrilled with his performance. Gredley noted that a flat track and a left-handed mile and a quarter could suit the horse perfectly. Although Juddmonte International is a prestigious race with top competitors, everyone is extremely pleased with him.
Gredley is hopeful that Ambiente Friendly will continue to progress as he matures, similar to Roger Varian’s dual Group One-winner, Charyn, who has shown significant improvement this season.
Gredley explained that they gave Ambiente Friendly a break and chose to bypass King George. He noted that every time they see the horse, he seems to be improving both mentally and physically. Rab had observed that morning that Ambiente Friendly is much more relaxed than he was a few months ago, which is exciting as it shows progress rather than regression.
Looking ahead, Gredley is hopeful that Ambiente Friendly will continue to develop into his four-year-old season. He mentioned that Tom Fanshawe has always believed the horse is still maturing physically, and that improvement from three to four can be significant. Although they remain hopeful, they believe Ambiente Friendly is in a great place, with the potential to win the Juddmonte International, and are thrilled with his progress.