Anamba Wins The Owenstown And Now Heads To Royal Ascot

Anamba made an impressive return to action this year in the Listed Owenstown Stud Stakes over seven furlongs at Naas, Ireland, on Sunday, May 29.

The three-year-old Shamardal filly, having her third start, broke smartly and was settled in fifth of the 14 contestants on the inside by William Buick.

Anamba, trained by Michael Halford, was pushed along in seventh before the turn for home and, once in the straight, started to make progress with two furlongs left.

She ran on to lead just inside the final furlong and gained a decent advantage before being eased close home to win by two lengths from Hasanour in a fast 1m 23.39s on good ground.

Michael Halford now intends on heading to the Coronation Stakes (G1, 1m, Royal Ascot, June 17) with the progressive filly.

He said: "We were delighted with Anamba. We waited from last weekend when we did not run her in the G1 1,000 Guineas because of the ground.

"It was nice that we were vindicated in that decision. She has been coming to hand nicely - our horses were a bit behind - and I am happy with her.

"She holds an entry in the Coronation and, all things being equal, she will go there.

"William liked Anamba, said she was professional and they hit the line strong. It was quite a messy race and she will learn from the experience."

William Buick commented: "I was very pleased with Anamba. "We were drawn one and plenty of people wanted my position but she traveled well and kept her ground.

"She quickened up well and I thought it was a good performance from a very inexperienced filly. Michael said whatever she did today she would come on for the outing.

"Royal Ascot will have to be considered now. It was good, fast ground today which suited her."