2012 Craven Stakes

Tweet

racing_news/

Tornado Storms to Craven Success
18/04/13

1 Toronado 8/11F
2 Havana Gold 6/1
3 Dundonnell 11/4
4 ran Distances: 4l, nk, 10l
TIME 1m 35.19s (fast by 0.31s)

Richard Hannon's Toronado enhanced his Classic claims in some style as he turned in an impressive display in the Novae Bloodstock Insurance Craven Stakes at Newmarket on April 18.

Toronado
© Racehorse Photos

Sent off the 8-11 favourite to give weight and a beating to three talented opponents, the unbeaten son of High Chaparral was soon bowling along at the head of affairs in the hands of Richard Hughes.

The Roger Charlton-trained Dundonnell, did his best to throw down a challenge heading inside the final couple of furlongs, but Hughes' confidence was clear for all to see, and Toronado showed a real turn of foot to put the race to bed and he passed the post with four lengths in hand.

It ended up being a one-two for Hannon, with Havana Gold beating the weakening Dundonnell to the runner-up spot.

Hannon said: "He's a machine. He's a good horse - he's quickened today and quickened again. He will come back here for the 2000 Guineas and what beats him will win.

"At the moment I'd say he's top (of our three-year-old colts) and the other horse (Olympic Glory) can probably go to the French Guineas now. I've no doubt he will go a mile and a half, too."

Charlton said of Dundonnell: "The winner is obviously very good, and we will see how our horse is over the next week regarding the Guineas. He's well over his racing weight and I'm pleased how he saw the race out as I told James (Doyle) not to be too hard on him."

Novae Bloodstock Insurance Craven Stakes
£60,000 added, 3yo only, 1m, Class 1
4 ran
Going: Good to Firm