Diligent Harry Set to Target Southwell this Saturday

The promising sprinter demonstrates continued form.

Clive Cox's Diligent Harry is set to return to the five-furlong distance in the Hever Sprint Stakes, continuing his strong start to the sprint season.

Having triumphed convincingly at Lingfield over six furlongs in his most recent outing, the six-year-old boasts an impressive track record on synthetic surfaces, boasting six wins from 10 starts. While he has also proven his ability on turf, including a noteworthy performance at Group level last season, a return to grass racing may be deferred until he fully explores his potential on artificial tracks.

Reflecting on his progress, Diligent Harry followed a similar path last season, securing a second-place finish in the Listed Kachy Stakes before clinching the prestigious All-Weather Sprint Championships at Newcastle on Good Friday.

The upcoming challenge for the bay gelding lies in the Hever Stakes at Southwell, set to be broadcast on Sky Sports Racing this Saturday. Following this event, a potential return to the All-Weather Finals remains on the cards, despite the transition from a conditions race to a handicap.

Commenting on the upcoming race, Cox expressed his optimism, stating,

"We're considering the Listed race at Southwell. Diligent Harry has emerged from his victory at Lingfield in excellent shape, showing a clear affinity for the synthetic surface. Given the entries, we are leaning towards testing him over five furlongs, given his current form and capabilities". 

Although facing stiff competition in a highly-rated field, Cox remains open to the idea of Diligent Harry contending in the All-Weather Final again, recognizing the potential challenges associated with the revised handicap format.

Recalling the gelding's turf performances from the previous season, Diligent Harry narrowly missed victory in the Cathedral Stakes and the Garrowby Stakes, both at Listed level, and was narrowly defeated by a head in the Group Three Hackwood Stakes.

Anticipating further growth and improvement, Cox remains optimistic about Diligent Harry's prospects, noting,

"He has progressed significantly and benefited from a well-deserved break. His current form is encouraging, and I am looking forward to what the future holds. Sprinters typically develop and mature over time, and I am hopeful that Diligent Harry will continue to excel as the season progresses".