Masar third in 2000 Guineas

Masar stayed on gamely to take third in the first Classic of the British season, the G1 2000 Guineas, over a mile at Newmarket, UK, on Saturday, 5 May. 

The three-year-old New Approach colt, trained by Charlie Appleby and ridden by William Buick, broke smartly and led a trio of runners down the stands’ rail as the 14-strong field split into three groups early on. 

Masar disputed fourth overall at the halfway point and quickened entering the final quarter-mile to challenge for second a furlong and a half from home. 

He battled all the way to the line to go down by just over a length and a half to Saxon Warrior, who won in 1m 36.55s on good ground. 

Charlie Appleby commented: “We were very pleased with the run of Masar. William went out with the mindset that we were going to go forward and he has given the horse a lovely ride. 

“Masar got into a nice rhythm but William said that he felt like a horse that wants a step up in trip. He just got caught a bit flat-footed when they quickened and was galloping back at the line.

“I think that we will give strong consideration to stepping him up in trip for the Derby (G1, 1m 4f, Epsom Downs, June 2).

William Buick said: “It was a very good run from Masar. He has grown up again mentally – he took everything in the race really well and was very relaxed throughout. 

“He is a very well-balanced and athletic colt, so I don’t think that a course like Epsom Downs would be a problem for him. The way he relaxes in his races, he should have a good chance in the Derby.”