Watson believes Shartash has a bright future

Connections of Shartash are patiently waiting for the right opportunity this summer following his impressive third-place finish in the Prix de Ris-Orangis at Deauville. The four-year-old, who showed promise as a juvenile, has been revitalised since joining trainer Archie Watson, winning his first two races under the Lambourn handler and catching the eye of Wathnan Racing in the process.

After being acquired by the Qatari operation ahead of Royal Ascot, Shartash finished a creditable eighth in his first race in Wathnan’s colours before his recent third-place finish in France. His team is now considering their options carefully, with a possible return to France for the Group One Prix Maurice de Gheest being on the cards if conditions are favourable.

“We were delighted with Shartash,” said Wathnan’s racing adviser Richard Brown. “James (Doyle) was easy on him when his chance had gone at Ascot, so it was good to see him run a really nice race in what I think was a pretty solid Group Three. I just felt he would probably be better with a bit of cut in the ground, so we won’t rush him back on quick ground, we will bide our time now.”

With plenty of races over six and seven furlongs in the coming months, the team is taking a cautious approach and will choose Shartash’s races carefully. The Prix Maurice de Gheest is being considered, but only if the ground is suitable for him to perform at his best.