Inspiral has been cleared to make what could be the final start of her illustrious career in the Virgin Bet Sun Chariot Stakes at Newmarket early next month.
Trained by John and Thady Gosden, the daughter of Frankel captured the Newmarket race impressively last year, marking the middle leg of a Group One treble that concluded with Breeders’ Cup success at Santa Anita.
While a return to the U.S. for the end-of-season championships at Del Mar has not been completely ruled out, her anticipated appearance at the Rowley Mile could likely be the final chapter in a stellar career that has seen her triumph at the highest level at ages two, three, and four.
Chris Richardson, managing director of owners Cheveley Park Stud, commented, “She’s in great shape and, all being well with the ground, she’s set for Newmarket and the Sun Chariot. We’ll see how she performs there. I think she’s more comfortable at a mile, but in top-level Group One races, you can’t afford to miss the break and give the field a significant advantage. She has her own personality and might be signalling that she’s ready to become a broodmare. However, it makes sense to give her one more opportunity to shine. If she surprises us, who knows? Although we haven’t completely ruled out America, it seems unlikely.”
While Inspiral may be nearing the end of her racing career, Cheveley Park’s future looks promising in the fillies' division. Sir Michael Stoute-trained Formal and Anna Swan have both impressed early in their careers.
Formal bolstered her reputation with a commanding win at Leicester on Tuesday and may be aimed at more significant targets before the season concludes. Meanwhile, hopes remain high for her stablemate Anna Swan, who showed her potential at Yarmouth in her debut.
Richardson added, “Anna Swan just needs a bit more time after her last run, and we’re being patient with her. Sir Michael is known for his patience, and it’s exciting to have a couple of promising fillies.”
Cheveley Park also has aspirations for top honours with their Royal Ascot winner Unequal Love. Trained by William Haggas, she is set to return to Ascot for the Qipco British Champions Sprint Stakes on October 19, following a third-place finish in Group One company at Haydock in the Betfair Sprint Cup.
Richardson concluded, “We were thrilled with Unequal Love’s performance at Haydock, and she’s likely to head to Ascot next.”