Champions Day Contenders – Twilight Son

Henry Candy toys with Twilight Son ahead of a tilt at the QIPCO Champion Sprint Stakes. Image courtesy of Racingfotos.com 

Even as a dual Champion Series winner, Twilight Son looks almost the forgotten horse coming into this year’s QIPCO Champions Sprint Stakes, and after his bold performance behind Muhaarar last year, you’d have to think he has a good chance next weekend.

Unbeaten in his first five races, Twilight Son only relinquished that record in last year’s Champions Sprint when an honourable second behind champion sprinter Muhaarar. Henry Candy’s charge came into this season with the world at his feet, but things didn’t go to plan first time out in the Duke of York Stakes. He was drawn on the wrong side and could never compete with old adversary Magical Memory, finishing fifth.

Fast-forward to June at Royal Ascot and Twilight Son was back with a bang in the Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes – a race which often determines the best sprinter around. Ryan Moore rode him confidently to prevail in a blanket finish, and later revealed he always felt he was going to win and the horse would progress for the run. Behind him was Hong Kong raider Gold-Fun and French-trained Signs Of Blessing, who will also line up on Champions Day.

The Darley July Cup was the next target for Twilight Son, but the ground came up unfavourably fast, and Henry Candy was reluctant to run. It was evident to see the dream was up from some way out as Twilight Son was unable to quicken on the surface and weakened up the hill to finish a disappointing 14 of 18. The race was left to his stablemate Limato, who powered clear to record a decisive success.

What next?

The Champions Sprint on Champions Day will be the perfect opportunity for Twilight Son to redeem himself. Back to a course he excels at, he cannot be discounted as a Champions Series regular and dual Group 1 winner. Quiet Reflection, Shalaa and The Tin Man will be looking to take him on in the ultimate finale.