RICHARD HANNON has called on a former ally to be part of his Irish raiding party for the 2,000 Guineas.
Jamie Spencer will ride Haatem in Saturday’s Curragh Classic – with his teammate Rosallion also still on course for Group 1.
1
Hannon’s pair finished second and third in the Notable Speech in the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket on 4 May.
Rosallion, the runner-up, is the 9-4 favorite, while Haatem – who finished third by less than two lengths – is a 6-1 chance.
Hannon said: “Jamie is set to set up Haatem while Sean Levey, of course, will be in Rosallion.
“Jamie has a lot of experience riding in Ireland and his style suits Haatem.”
Spencer won the Irish 2000 with Phoenix Of Spain in 2019 and the old man from Hannon won in 2010 with superstar Canford Cliffs.
Hannon said: “I would love to do what my dad did and go out there and beat the Irish boys in their own backyard.
“Haatem is very tough and I think the track will suit him – but I think it will suit my two horses.
“Haatem is turning into a very good horse and I wouldn’t say he’s exposed.
Most read in Horse Racing
“What I would say is that he is showing that he is a real Group racehorse.
“It’s brilliant to enter the race with two big chances as these Classic horses don’t come along every year. I hope we can win one with Haatem or Rosallion.
“We might as well think about walking a mile and a quarter a day with Haatem. He relaxes well and gives himself every chance to go further.”
Hannon, of course, said Rosallion is the BEST he has coached.
He said: “I have been absolutely delighted with Rosallion since her time at Newmarket. He did a good job over the weekend and looks great.
“I think this looks like a great opportunity for him heading into Royal Ascot.
“The ground looks like it’s going to be fast, so let’s take advantage and try to make it a Classic winner.
“There’s only one way to get in shape and that’s by playing matches.
“He may have been a little rusty at Newmarket but he should improve and I hope he shows that on Saturday.
“He will have no problem running in the Guineas and Royal Ascot as he has a very good constitution.
“He’s a strong lad and he’s quite capable of doing this.”
FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP OFFERS AND RACE OFFERS
Commercial content warning: Accepting one of the offers presented in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware that brands pay fees to appear higher on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. www.gambleaware.org.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible player is someone who:
- Set time and monetary limits before playing
- Only games with money they can lose
- Never chase your losses
- Don’t play if you are upset, irritated or depressed
- Game caution – www.gamcare.org.uk
- Game Aware – www.gambleaware.org
Find our detailed guide on responsible gaming practices here.
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
