Maxfield secures another G1 second in Woodward Stakes

Maxfield filled the runner-up spot at G1 level for a second consecutive start when going down by a length and a half to Art Collector in the nine-furlong Woodward Stakes at Belmont Park, USA, on Saturday, 2 October.

The Brendan Walsh-trained colt, who finished second behind Knicks Go over the same trip in the G1 Whitney Stakes at Saratoga in August, disputed third on the inside of Forza Di Oro as Art Collector set the early fractions ahead of Mo Gotcha.

Maxfield continued to save ground on the inside rail before being switched out by Jose Ortiz to take a narrow second approaching the straight, with Forza Di Oro, Dr Post and Code Of Honor also moving up to challenge.

The Godolphin homebred stayed on down the lane, seeing off Dr Post and Code Of Honor entering the final furlong as Forza Di Oro’s effort faded, but could not press Bernardini colt Art Collector, who made all for a comfortable win.

Godolphin USA President Jimmy Bell said: “It’s back-to-back races for Maxfield where a horse has led from gate-to-wire and controlled the pace. He wasn’t beaten that far – Jose Ortiz felt that we were just second best on the day.

“Maxfield had the chance when they made the split turning for home but Art Collector had set up a couple of lengths lead with somewhat moderate fractions through the first half. The winner rode a good, smart race, which left everyone else in a chasing position.

“Maxfield continues to compete with the very best in the older horse division. He shows up and we just haven’t got the right scenario for him to have his picture taken. We will ship him back to Keeneland, let him settle in there and see what vibes he gives us.”