Tamfana Claims First Group One Victory for Menuisier in Virgin Bet Sun

Tamfana delivered David Menuisier an overdue first Group One victory of the season with a commanding performance in the Virgin Bet Sun Chariot Stakes at Newmarket, while Inspiral concluded her career with a valiant second-place finish.

Menuisier had seen Tamfana, Sunway, and Wind Chime all place in some of the season's most prestigious races, making this win particularly sweet as he finally dined at the top table. With Oisin Murphy unavailable to ride the well-supported See The Fire from Andrew Balding’s stable, Menuisier quickly secured the services of Colin Keane. Although Keane had never won a Group One in England, he was the reigning champion jockey in Ireland.

The decision proved inspiring. With Inspiral once again missing the start—a recurring issue for her—Tamfana broke well and settled in second behind Darnation. Nashwa, too keen for Hollie Doyle on her first run since Dubai, and See The Fire never posed a serious threat, leaving Tamfana to take the lead well over a furlong from the finish.

Inspiral, ridden by Robert Havlin, made a strong late charge to finish second but was ultimately two lengths behind the 2-1 favourite. Tamfana had previously finished fourth in the 1000 Guineas, third in the French Oaks, and fourth in the Grand Prix de Paris.

A delighted Menuisier commented, "She did exactly what we hoped she would. We kept it simple; I told Colin she travels well and quickens—just keep it straightforward. For once, everything went smoothly, and she truly deserves this. It’s a significant milestone for us to secure our first Group One victory. We have a few more big runners this weekend—let’s go for it!"

He further noted the achievement of the syndicate (Quantum Leap Racing), as Tamfana was bought for just €20,000. "It’s magical to see her beat horses owned by some of the biggest owners in the world," Menuisier added.

Tamfana is entered in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes on Qipco British Champions Day, and Menuisier didn’t rule out a quick return to Ascot in two weeks. "We’ll see how she is; she handles any ground, but this time of year, you have to play it by ear," he said. "We’ll enjoy today and assess her over the next couple of weeks. It’s a great sense of achievement, especially after feeling we’ve missed out a few times. I’m just glad for the filly more than myself."

Keane, who rode Tamfana for the first time, expressed his excitement about the opportunity. "I found out on Thursday morning that I would be riding her. It’s unfortunate for Oisin, but it was a brilliant spare, and I was delighted to receive the call. This was my first time riding for David, and they seemed like a fantastic team. I’m thrilled for everyone involved."

He continued, "I can see why they had previously stepped her up in trip. We didn’t go overly fast, but I believe you’d see an even better filly in a truly run mile. She broke well, rolled forward, and kept it straightforward. She travelled to the front with ease, and I would have loved it if Sam (James, on Darnation) could have pushed her a bit further. I knew Inspiral would be the one to beat on her best day, so I was unsure how far away she was. Thankfully, my filly quickened away well."

Richard Thompson of Cheveley Park Stud spoke highly of Inspiral, who had won this race last year and boasts six Group One victories on her resume. "It’s been brilliant—what a journey with her. Six Group Ones, a Breeders’ Cup, a couple of Jacques le Marois, and a Coronation Stakes. Chris (Richardson, Cheveley Park managing director) and the team at the stud bred her, and she has been incredible for my family, especially my mother, who will be watching at home. It’s been a fantastic journey."