Bradsell secured an impressive victory at Curragh

Bradsell delivered another impressive performance, adding a Group One victory in the Bar One Racing Flying Five Stakes at Curragh to his recent Nunthorpe win.

After taking a break earlier in the season, Bradsell marked his return with a Listed race victory at Deauville, and has since established himself as a top contender in the five-furlong division. 

Following his Nunthorpe triumph at York just over three weeks ago, the four-year-old was the 2-1 favorite for this race. He broke quickly under Hollie Doyle and took control from the outset. After seizing the lead from fellow British challenger Washington Heights inside the final two furlongs, Bradsell surged ahead to win by a convincing length and a quarter.

Believing, the admirable mare trained by George Boughey and runner-up in the Nunthorpe, made a late charge but again had to settle for second place.

Archie Watson commented, "It was quite straightforward to watch. There was never a moment of concern. He was outstanding, never looked like being beaten, and pulled clear effortlessly."

Watson also expressed his surprise at any negative sentiment about Bradsell, saying, "I was surprised he wasn’t the favourite for the Nunthorpe and surprised by the scepticism this morning. He’s clearly the best sprinter around, and I hope he’s proving that."

"He has incredible speed, class, and toughness. He’s been a joy to work with."

Paddy Power has made Bradsell the 5-2 favourite for the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint, up from 4-1, and the Prix de l’Abbaye at ParisLongchamp in three weeks is also being considered.

Watson noted, "The Abbaye is a potential target, though it depends on the ground and the draw. If conditions are favourable, he’d be very hard to beat. The Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar is another option, with its quick five furlongs suited to him. We’ll likely aim for one or both of these, depending on how things go."

Regarding Bradsell’s future, Watson added, "I hope he’ll be back next season. Although he’s had a slightly interrupted career and hasn’t had a full season yet, he’s very talented. I have a promising two-year-old, Aesterius, coming up, so it will depend on what we have for next year. I’d love to see Bradsell continue racing throughout the year, as he’s likely to remain a top contender."