It has been a remarkable week for Wootton Bassett, as the town celebrates another victory with Topgear in the Group II Newmarket Challenge Stakes. Trained by Christopher Head and ridden by Stephane Pasquier, Topgear dominated the race and secured a convincing five and a half length win.
Topgear’s recent triumph adds to Wootton Bassett’s successful week, which began with Camille Pissarro’s victory in the juvenile Group I race. Additionally, a colt from Wootton Bassett fetched a historic price of 4.3 million at the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale Book 1. This series of accomplishments highlights the growing reputation of Wootton Bassett as a sire of top-quality racehorses.
Despite missing his classic season, Topgear has maintained an impressive track record, finishing either first or in a placing position in stakes company races throughout the year. With six wins and six placings in a total of 14 starts, Topgear is proving to be a consistent and formidable competitor in the racing world.
Stephane Pasquier, the jockey for Topgear, praised the horse’s performance, highlighting his ease of riding and the effortless nature of the victory. Pasquier expressed his satisfaction with Topgear’s progress and hinted at future race opportunities for the talented five-year-old.
Originally purchased for 200,000 euros from the Arqana Deauville Yearling Sale, Topgear is the best-performing offspring of Miss Lech, a mare with a successful racing career. Miss Lech, a half-sister to Group II winner Guilt Trip, has produced three winners, with Topgear emerging as the standout performer among them.
As Wootton Bassett’s fee stands at $192,500 in Australia this spring, the success of Topgear and other offspring further solidifies the stallion’s reputation as a top breeding choice. With the first locally bred offspring of Wootton Bassett set to race this season, there is anticipation and excitement surrounding the potential for more victories and accolades in the future.
Overall, Wootton Bassett’s recent achievements, culminating in Topgear’s Group II victory, underscore the town’s growing prominence in the racing world. With a legacy of producing top-tier racehorses and a bright future ahead, Wootton Bassett continues to make a mark in the competitive and prestigious world of horse racing.