Richard Spencer is already envisioning Classic success in 2025 after announcing that his promising Listed winner Yah Mo Be There will be sidelined for the rest of the season. Owned by Phil Cunningham, the Mohaather colt impressed with a strong debut, finishing a close second at York. Despite a lacklustre performance in the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot, he bounced back with a commanding win in the Rose Bowl Stakes at Newbury.
Although a step up to seven furlongs for Doncaster’s Champagne Stakes was initially considered, Spencer has decided to reserve Yah Mo Be There for next year, targeting an early-season Classic trial.
Spencer said, “He won’t run again this year. We’re putting him away and looking forward to next year. He will be trained for a Guineas trial in the spring.”
In the meantime, Spencer has a replacement ready for the Champagne Stakes in Righthere Rightnow, who dazzled on debut with a five-length victory at Newmarket. Another colt owned by Cunningham, the Kodiac offspring impressed connections, who are now eyeing bigger targets.
Spencer commented, “He was very good, and the result was pleasing. He’s been showing well at home, and while I didn’t expect him to win by that margin, I thought he would be competitive. He’s a lovely horse with a great temperament and is exciting for Phil and the team.”
He added, “It’s still early, but we’re leaning towards the Champagne at Doncaster for him. We won’t enter him in the sales races, as we have others for those. We plan to treat him as a top horse, and he’ll likely also have a Dewhurst entry.”
Looking ahead, Spencer is optimistic about the prospects for both Yah Mo Be There and Righthere Rightnow next season. “There’s still much to consider, but we might aim for one colt to go to Newbury for the Greenham and the other for a trial at Newmarket. We like to plan ahead and are hopeful for an exciting winter with these promising horses.”