Charlie Johnston is gearing up The Gatekeeper, the Qipco Champions Day victor, and his companion Dutch Decoy for the Pertemps Network Lincoln at Doncaster.
The Gatekeeper, donning the Middleham Park Racing silks, secured four wins last season, triumphing at Newcastle, Newmarket, and Goodwood, and clinching a close second in the lucrative Golden Mile at Goodwood. His season culminated with a surprising victory in the Balmoral Handicap at Ascot in October.
Now, he is poised to tackle the season's first major handicap alongside Dutch Decoy on March 23.
Middleham-based Johnston revealed,
"Both The Gatekeeper and Dutch Decoy engaged in their initial significant workout together on Thursday, with the Lincoln set as their ultimate goal. The Gatekeeper is confirmed for the race, while Dutch Decoy, who had a delayed return, will need a smooth three weeks to make it. Currently, the aim is to have both contenders ready for the event."
Reflecting on The Gatekeeper's outstanding season, Johnston said,
"Considering he was off for 625 days before his return, The Gatekeeper had a remarkable year. He marked his comeback with a win at Newcastle at this time last year and ended the season with a career-best performance on Champions Day."
With his rating now at 100, challenges may be tougher this year, but his previous form as a top-class handicapper provides confidence for his Doncaster debut.
Johnston further added,
"We discovered last year that he performs well on softer ground, which is likely for the Lincoln. I am eager to see him in action under those conditions."