Roger Teal's promising sprinter, Rosario, is set to commence his season in a handicap competition at Lingfield on Friday.
The Harry Angel gelding demonstrated his potential during a successful juvenile campaign, clinching victory on debut at Ffos Las before elevating his performance to Group level, securing two notable placings over five furlongs towards the end of the season.
His third-place finish behind Big Evs in the Flying Childers Stakes at Doncaster was followed by a commendable second-place effort in the Cornwallis Stakes at Newmarket, where he was narrowly defeated by Kevin Philippart De Foy's Inquisitively. Teal has expressed satisfaction with Rosario's development over the winter and plans to initiate his new season in the BetMGM AWC 3 Year Old Trial Handicap.
"We're delighted with his progress. Although opportunities for three-year-old sprinters are limited, he will be shouldering top weight in this race,"
noted the trainer.
"He performed admirably last season, and this race will provide valuable insight into our prospects for the year ahead. We are eagerly anticipating his performance. Despite carrying top weight, he possesses significant talent, and we are hopeful that he will rise to the challenge."
Having exclusively competed over five furlongs last season, Rosario will face a new challenge at Lingfield by racing over six furlongs for the first time. Teal believes that the extended distance could suit the gelding well, stating,
"I believe he will benefit from the step up to six furlongs. While he excelled over the shorter distance, his finishing style indicates that the additional furlong will be advantageous. Only time will reveal, but the signs suggest that he will thrive over six furlongs."
Big Evs, the victor in the Flying Childers Stakes at Doncaster, went on to triumph in the Juvenile Turf Sprint at the Breeders' Cup in November, amplifying the calibre of Rosario's juvenile form. Reflecting on Rosario's performances, Teal remarked,
"Despite a challenging start at Doncaster and an unfavourable draw at Newmarket, Rosario displayed resilience and strength. A more favourable draw at Newmarket could have resulted in a closer finish. The upcoming season holds much promise, and we are eager to witness Rosario's development further."