The Coolmore Wootton Bassett Nunthorpe Stakes at York later this summer will see Washington Heights drop back to five furlongs in an attempt to reach the pinnacle of sprinting. Last season, he performed consistently in handicap races before securing a win at
Listed level in Sweden. This season, he has taken his form up a notch, starting with a victory in Newmarket's Abernant Stakes.
After a commendable effort at York and a close call at the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot, where stamina limitations hindered his performance, connections decided to focus on sprinting distances. Trainer Kevin Ryan and racing manager Cosmo Charlton believe that the shorter distance will suit Washington Heights, especially after the impressive win by stablemate Inisherin in the Commonwealth Cup.
Washington Heights will now prepare for the Ebor meeting, where he will compete in the Knavesmire's sprint feature. Despite narrowly missing victory in his previous races at York, the team is hopeful that he will make a triumphant return in the Nunthorpe Stakes.
Charlton mentioned that jockey Tom Eaves felt Washington Heights was better suited for shorter distances after the Ascot race, and they have decided to focus on sprint races moving forward. With Kevin Ryan's expertise in training sprinters evident with Inisherin's success, the team is confident that Washington Heights will be a strong contender in upcoming races, including potentially being a favourite for the July Cup.