The imperiously named Middle Kingdom has earned the right to be considered for some major autumn targets when maintaining his undefeated record at Newmarket, Great Britain overnight.
The China Horse Club colour bearer set pulses racing in the Bet365 Handicap (2000m) when overcoming a series of obstacles to come from near last in a performance that was in keeping with his weighty moniker. Under strong riding from jockey Jimmy Fortune, Middle Kingdom overhauled his rivals with his final drive to the line to record his second win in as many starts.
“When we name our racehorses we are always mindful that they are representative not only of our club but our members and, in the eyes of many, also representative of the Chinese people as well,” said Mick Flanagan, the China Horse Club’s European Bloodstock and Racing Manager.
“Middle Kingdom was named to reflect our admiration for Chinese culture, the history the Chinese people share with the horse and for the future potential of China’s domestic thoroughbred industry. So it comes with great satisfaction that Middle Kingdom has begun his career with such promise and has earned the right to be considered for loftier assignments.”
The colt’s ability to handle a middle distance is likely to see the £160,000 G2 Dante Stakes as a potential marker for his seasonal direction. A key lead up to the Epsom Derby and to European classics, it is a race Gosden has used with great success having annexed the event in 2015 and 2016 respectively with subsequent Epsom Derby and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe hero Golden Horn and Wings of Desire who was subsequently the runner-up in the £1,150,000 G1 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes. Another target may be the €1,500,000 G1 Prix de Jockey Club but Gosden has time on his side before locking down an autumn program for his charge.
“Middle Kingdom did well during his break and John [Gosden] always said he comes to hand quickly,” Flanagan added.
“However, the expectation was that he would improve with that run so to win in the manner he did augurs well. There is no firm race plan with him yet, John will think through the different options with him and map out a plan that will place him to effect. What is exciting is that there are a series of possible targets for him all across Europe.”
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