Snow thunders home in Criterium International

Thunder Snow was the most impressive victor of the G1 Criterium International at Saint-Cloud, France, on Sunday, October 30, winning by five lengths, eased down, from South Seas.

The two-year-old colt, trained by Saeed bin Suroor and partnered by Christophe Soumillon, provided first-season sire Helmet with a first G1 success.

Thunder Snow, who came into the seven-furlong race with a good level of form in Group races, broke well from the stalls and soon led.

The other Godolphin runner, Bay Of Poets (Charlie Appleby/William Buick), took over in front after a furlong, racing freely, and maintained his advantage until entering the straight where Thunder Snow regained the lead when coming across to the stands’ side.

Thunder Snow ran on strongly to go clear and Christophe Soumillon was able to ease down in the closing stages. He won in 1m 28.20 on ground described as soft.

Lisa-Jane Graffard of Godolphin said: "Christophe was never worried.

"He reported that Thunder Snow travelled well all the way and handled the ground.

"It was a very pleasing performance and Saeed bin Suroor, who is in Australia, will be happy.

"Thunder Snow will be able get a mile next year so it is all very exciting."

Christophe Soumillon added: "Thunder Snow, who looked very well, was calm and super relaxed.

"I think he will be even better over a mile and further."