Trainer Oliver Signy is optimistic that It’s Top can showcase his burgeoning talent as he steps up in grade in the King Edward VII Ascot Membership Open National Hunt Flat Race on Friday.
The four-year-old impressed on his rules debut last month at Chepstow, narrowly defeating Jordans Cross by half a length. That performance has since been bolstered, with Jordans Cross scoring a victory at Southwell and the third-placed Kingston Queen finishing a close second at Plumpton.
Acknowledging the challenge ahead, Lambourn-based Signy is confident It’s Top is ready for the Listed race at Ascot.
“It’s a very hot race, but we feel he deserves his chance,” Signy said. “He won well at Chepstow, staying on strongly, and beat a couple of fancied horses. He’s such a big horse, and while he was a bit weak earlier, he’s really starting to fill out now.”
Signy believes Ascot’s one-circuit course plays to his horse’s strengths.
“If he gets his head in front, he’ll be hard to beat,” he said. “He’s a tough horse and is maturing well. While he’s already showing promise, he’s going to be an even better horse as a five- or six-year-old when he goes hurdling and chasing.”
The team is keeping their options open regarding It’s Top’s future, considering both festival bumpers and a potential move to hurdling later in the season.
“For now, it’s race by race. If he runs well or places, we might look at a festival bumper. But as a big horse, there’s no rush—we’re thinking long-term,” Signy added. “Right now, he’s fit and healthy, so we’re keen to let him take his chance.”
Signy is optimistic that Friday’s Listed contest will reveal more about It’s Top’s capabilities and offer a glimpse of his bright future on the racing stage.