Tom Clover sets sights on Haydock debut for the £1 million contender.
Luxurious acquisition Rogue Lightning is set to embark on a high-calibre sprinting campaign with the prestigious Temple Stakes likely marking his initial outing.
Tom Clover’s four-year-old enjoyed a fruitful spell on the grass last season, clinching two lucrative five-furlong handicaps before triumphing in the esteemed Scarbrough Stakes at Doncaster in September.
In October, at Longchamp, he took on the challenge of the Prix de l’Abbaye, a Group One event spanning five furlongs on the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe race card.
Displaying commendable form, he crossed the line fifth among 18 competitors, finishing just a length and a quarter adrift of the victor, Highfield Princess. The latter secured a one-length lead over a closely packed group vying for placings.
Subsequently, Wathnan Racing acquired the gelding for a substantial sum of £1 million at the Goffs Qipco British Champions Day Sale, with intentions to retain him under Clover's tutelage for a shot at the premier sprinting challenges throughout 2024.
Plans for the forthcoming campaign are currently in the works, with a probable debut scheduled at Haydock in May.
"Assuming all goes according to plan, Rogue Lightning will commence in the Temple Stakes,"
revealed Clover.
"Progressing from there, the King’s Stand Stakes is on the horizon - provided everything continues smoothly.
"We shall proceed cautiously and evaluate his condition, though he appears to be in fine spirits.
"His winter preparations have been reassuring, so we remain hopeful for a seamless journey ahead.
"Considering his calibre, the roadmap seems to naturally lead him towards the top five-furlong Group One races during the summer, and we are committed to making that aspiration a reality."