Live In The Dream shall defend his title in Nunthorpe

Adam West is optimistic about Live In The Dream’s upcoming Nunthorpe title defence following a solid performance at Goodwood.

Last year, Live In The Dream progressed rapidly from handicaps to Listed and lower Group races, culminating in a career-best win in the Nunthorpe at York, where he triumphed by a length over Highfield Princess.

After a brief stint in the U.S. for the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint and Woodford Stakes, where he finished fourth both times, Live In The Dream returned to England for the 2024 season. He began with a second-place finish in the Temple Stakes at Haydock but struggled in the Achilles Stakes there, finishing fifth.

At Sandown, he was fourth in the Coral Charge, beaten by three lengths on soft ground. However, Goodwood’s good-to-firm conditions suited him better. In the King George Qatar Stakes, a Group Two race featuring Group One quality competitors, Live In The Dream finished a credible fourth, just a length and three-quarters behind the winner.

West noted that despite some minor issues, including interference and a slight headwind, Live In The Dream’s tenacity was evident. He remains focused on the Nunthorpe, a key target for owner Steve De’Lemos, and is confident of performing at a similar level as last year.