Sword Dancer Stakes proves a bridge too far for Measured Time

Measured Time unleashed a strong stretch run but could not get to grips with all-the-way winner Far Bridge in the G1 Sword Dancer Stakes at Saratoga, USA, on Saturday, 24 August.The Charlie Appleby-trained four-year-old was bidding for a third top-level prize of 2024 following impressive wins in the Jebel Hatta and Manhattan Stakes, with his main opposition in the five-runner field expected to come from stable-mate Silver Knott.

Measured Time was quickly into his stride from his inside draw and raced in second initially before settling in a two-length third as Silver Knott moved up to track Far Bridge after a furlong and a half.

The front three continued to hold the same positions, with Far Bridge increasing the tempo half a mile from home. Silver Knott closed to within a neck of the leader turning in as William Buick switched Measured Time wide to mount his challenge.

Far Bridge continued to find in front and had a length and a half in hand over his rivals until Measured Time accelerated strongly entering the final furlong. Measured Time reduced Far Bridge’s advantage to half a length, but the Christophe Clement-trained runner rallied again close home, hitting the line a length clear.

Silver Knott’s effort flattened out in the straight and he kept on at the same pace under Flavien Prat to take third, three and a quarter lengths behind Measured Time.

Charlie Appleby said: “It’s disappointing not to win as we felt we had two strong chances in the race. The winner got an easy lead, but full credit to him as he has put the race to the sword half a mile out.

“We were in a position where we could have struck if we were good enough and potentially the mile and a half has just stretched Measured Time. He kicked off the turn like he was going to pick up and put the race to bed but didn’t go through the line the strongest. It’s still a question mark as to whether he truly gets the trip.

“Silver Knott might have run a little flat. He has had a strong campaign out here so far and might benefit from a break now.”