Surrey Quest Eyes Return to Winning Ways in Tommy Whittle Chase
Surrey Quest, runner-up in last season’s Scottish Grand National, could be back in action this Saturday in the Betfred Tommy Whittle Handicap Chase at Haydock, aiming to secure his first victory of the campaign.
Trained by Toby Lawes, the seven-year-old displayed his talent last season with a thrilling nose defeat to Macdermott at Ayr. He recently resumed his campaign at Cheltenham, finishing second to the late Abuffalasoldier after a powerful late charge from the back.
Connections had cautioned that Surrey Quest would need the run at Prestbury Park, making his performance even more encouraging. Lawes believes the gelding has progressed further since that outing and is optimistic about his chances at Haydock, provided the conditions are suitable.
"He worked well yesterday and has come out of it in great shape. We’re waiting to see if the rain comes and how the ground shapes up, but it’s a race we’re seriously considering," Lawes said.
"I’d like to test him on genuine soft ground and see how he handles it. He took a couple of blows at Cheltenham, so he’s clearly improving and getting stronger. He has a tremendous attitude—his late run at Cheltenham showed just how much he’s capable of."
Surrey Quest has continued to mature, with Lawes noting the horse has needed more work this season due to the physical progress he made over the summer.
Looking ahead, the Grand National at Aintree is an exciting possibility for the spring. However, Lawes is not rushing plans, emphasizing that Surrey Quest’s path will develop naturally.
"He’ll probably need to win twice to ensure he gets into Aintree. I’ve always said to the owners, if we get there organically, we’ll go. But there’s no pressure—there are so many great races for horses like him," Lawes explained.
"The Midlands National, the Scottish National again—there’s plenty to look forward to. The Grand National is on the table if everything aligns."
For now, Surrey Quest’s connections are focused on the potential Haydock outing, where the promising chaser will look to confirm his progression in what could be an exciting step forward.