Valiant third for Creative Force in G1 British Champions Sprint

Creative Force produced another admirable effort at Ascot when finishing third in the G1 British Champions Sprint on Champions Day, Saturday, 15 October.

The son of Dubawi had captured the six-furlong feature 12 months ago, adding to his victory in the 2021 G3 Jersey Stakes, and was beaten a neck by Naval Crown in the G1 Platinum Jubilee Stakes at this year’s Royal Ascot.

After showing good speed from the gates, Creative Force soon tracked Naval Crown in a group that came up towards the stands’ rail.

Creative Force took closer order after the first quarter-mile and headed Naval Crown two and a half furlongs from home, with Kinross also quickening to dispute the lead soon after.

Kinross took charge on the near side and forged clear as Run To Freedom joined Creative Force in second entering the final furlong. The Charlie Appleby-trained four-year-old rallied for William Buick, missing out on second by a neck.

Charlie Appleby said: “We were pleased with Creative Force, who has put up another solid performance. We will see how he comes out of the race, but he has potentially booked himself a ticket for the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint.”