George Boughey was delighted to see Soprano hit her stride and secure a win at Deauville on Thursday, and he believes she’s only beginning to show her full potential.
The daughter of Starspangledbanner has been highly regarded by her connections and made a mark in competitive races as a two-year-old. After a promising start to the season, she excelled when stepped up to a mile, winning the Sandringham Stakes at Royal Ascot.
However, she faced challenges in the Coral Distaff on soft ground and struggled in the Valiant Stakes at Ascot. Boughey credits her return to form to the forward-going tactics that worked well for her previously. She achieved her first Group win in the Prix de Lieurey by leading from the front.
“I think I’m partly responsible for her previous riding instructions,” Boughey admitted. “She performed well when racing prominently, but we tried different tactics that didn’t suit her as well. Returning to her front-running style at Deauville was a bold move, but it paid off. She finished strongly.”
Soprano is entered for the Coolmore America “Justify” Matron Stakes at Leopardstown next month, and Boughey sees it as a chance for her to compete at a higher level. He’s also hopeful she will continue to race next season, as she seems to improve with experience.