Rob Hornby looking for Lockinge party with Alcohol Free, Baaeed isn't invited
- Tom Reed
- 13 May 2022
Jockey Rob Hornby is hopeful his mount Alcohol Free can spoil the party for Lockinge favourite Baaeed on Saturday, May 14 at Newbury.
Jockey Rob Hornby is hoping for a Champagne performance from Alcohol Free in the Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes at Newbury on Saturday, May 14.
The No Nay Never Filly claimed Group 1 glory in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Sussex Stakes at Glorious Goodwood last Summer.
The Andrew Balding filly has already lost to Lockinge favourite Baaeed in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, finishing eighth but Hornby reckons she can get back to her old form.
"We thought that for her first run of the year we'd make sure we did it the right way round, she might have looked a little bit keen on television but she doesn't ride as bad as she looks," he said.
"We always thought she'd come on for the run, she wasn't quite there in her coat. It would have been nice to have gone and won at Sandown with her being a dual Group One winner but it was always going to be a starting block for her - she's definitely going to come on for the run."
Alcohol Free goes toe to toe or hoof to hoof with Baaeed once more in the Lockinge, with William Haggas' unbeaten colt expected to go off a very short price favourite.
Yet, Alcohol Free isn't a million miles away from the rest of the field on ratins and the race could be cracked wide open if Baaeed needs the run.
"Obviously Baaeed is the standout in the race and I've got quite a nice draw next to him," Hornby said.
"We'll keep it uncomplicated, just get her relaxed in the first couple of furlongs and then ride our race from there. I've been riding her plenty at home and she's certainly come on a lot from Sandown and that's encouraging.
"Take Baaeed out and it looks quite open really. Baaeed is rock solid on form and ratings but if he isn't quite there on the day, then it's going to be a really exciting race to look forward to - let's just hope my filly can run a big race."
The Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes starts at 15.20 on Saturday, May 14.
