Kinross Likely to Focus on Longer Distances Next Season

Kinross is expected to concentrate on longer distances next year after falling short in his attempt to win the Qipco British Champions Sprint at Ascot. The seven-year-old, trained by Ralph Beckett, had a strong season, reclaiming his title in the Park Stakes at Doncaster and finishing second in the Prix de la Foret at ParisLongchamp.

Although Kinross was the 7-2 favourite for the six-furlong sprint at Ascot, he finished seventh, just under four lengths behind the winner. His connections believe that while his speed over shorter distances has diminished, his enthusiasm for racing remains strong.

Jamie McCalmont, racing manager for owner Marc Chan, commented, "Six furlongs is probably too sharp for him now, and next year we may stretch him out to a mile. He’s still enthusiastic, but doesn’t have the legs for sprinting anymore."

Kinross will take a break and likely return to racing in June 2024, with each race now seen as a bonus in his veteran career. Despite Saturday’s result, he remains in good spirits and ready for future challenges.