Inspiral is being readied for a comeback in the Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes as owners Cheveley Park Stud aim to maintain their winning streak with their exceptional mare.
Under the guidance of John and Thady Gosden, the talented filly sired by Frankel, she solidified her status as a Group One champion for the third consecutive year by triumphing in the Prix Jacques le Marois during the previous summer.
Inspiral quickly followed up her remarkable win at Deauville with more impressive victories in the Sun Chariot Stakes and at the Breeders' Cup. This success led to the decision to continue training the exceptional mare at the age of five, with the one-mile event at Newbury on May 18 as the first goal.
Alternatively, if the prestigious occasion arrives too early for the nine-times champion, she will resort to her backup strategy. Just like last year, this entails commencing her campaign at Royal Ascot in June.
"The Lockinge is our intended target, but it's worth noting that she tends to arrive later in the spring, as we've observed in the past," said Chris Richardson, the managing director of Cheveley Park Stud.
Inspiral concluded 2023 on a high note by triumphing in the Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf at Santa Anita, showcasing her ability to handle the 10-furlong distance. While the plan for the upcoming season is to begin at a mile, longer distances may be considered as the summer progresses.