Coral-Eclipse on horizon for Alenquer after Curragh win
- Tom Reed
- 23 May 2022
William Haggas is in sensational form but would have got a lot of satisfaction in Alenquer's game victory in the Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh. He edged High Definition on the line.
William Haggas is in red hot form with Baeed winning the Lockinge, victories into double figures over the past week and Maljoom clinching the German Guineas on Sunday.
Yet, few victories would have given the Newmarket trainer satisfaction as much as that of Alenquer in the Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh.
Aidan O'Brien's High Definition finally looked as if he would live up to some of his potential but Ballydoyle didn't bank on four-year-old Alenquer surging home to win by a neck in Ireland under Tom Marquand.
"He was marvellous. He's a very brave horse and it was a cracking race. He was given a fantastic ride," said Haggas from his Newmarket base.
"I think a really strong run 10-furlongs is ideal for him and that was the case today, he kept going, he's so, so tough.
"I actually think he'll be better with a bit more dig in the ground but how can I say that, he's won really nicely."
Adlerflug colt Alenquer holds a pair of entries at Royal Ascot in the Prince of Wales's Stakes and the Hardwicke but Haggas may give his winner an extended break and go for the Coral-Eclipse Stakes at Sandown on July 2.
"I'd fancy the Eclipse myself, but I haven't discussed that with anyone else," said Haggas.
"I think the Eclipse is the right race for him. It's been an extraordinary couple of weeks, we're just pinching ourselves to be honest."
Meanwhile a pleased Marquand told RTE: "That's my first ride in Ireland, I didn't even know the way to the start an hour ago!
"This horse had a trip over to Dubai in the winter and he ran super over there and we had excuses.
"We always thought we would win a Group One over a mile and a half. Today being a mile and a quarter is hopefully a sign there are better things to come from him.
"He's hardy and that was a great performance. He really had to dig deep there and it is a stiff last furlong.
"To be honest, I was always really happy. As playful as he might be, he really digs deep when he has to.
"It is wonderful for William Haggas and the team at home because he is not the easiest."
Brilliant finish to a thrilling @Tattersalls1766 Gold Cup!
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) May 22, 2022
Alenquer strikes for the red-hot William Haggas and @TomMarquand combination in a race to remember at @curraghrace pic.twitter.com/DHtd13G1Vq
