Home/US Sports

One horse continues his perfect 2023 track record. Paddington, the 3-year-old Siyouni colt, secured another impressive victory at Goodwood, England, in the prestigious Group 1 Sussex Stakes. This latest triumph not only adds to his unblemished record of 6 wins out of 6 races in 2023, but also secures his place in the Breeders’ Cup Mile as a “win-and-you’re-in” qualifier. Owned in part by American Peter Brant, Paddington’s journey to stardom has been nothing short of extraordinary, considering he started his equestrian season in a humble handicap race.

As the season progressed, Paddington proved he was no ordinary racehorse, claiming victories in esteemed Group 1 races like the Irish 2,000 Guineas, St. James’s Palace, and Eclipse Stakes. Eventually, Paddington reached the Sussex Stakes, and he did not disappoint.

Paddington’s equestrian dominance at Sussex Stakes

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

With an incredible burst of speed, Paddington left his competitors gasping for breath. Even a formidable challenger like Facteur Cheval from France fell short against this unstoppable force. In the end, Paddington triumphed by a decisive 1 1/2 lengths. Trainer Aidan O’Brien was extremely proud of Paddington and claimed he was a special horse who can dominate on all sorts of ground should the occasion demand. The comparisons to the legendary Giant’s Causeway, who won the Sussex Stakes in 2000, are undeniable, but O’Brien believes Paddington has something even more special. Unlike the Giant, Paddington’s quickness and versatility make him a true force to be reckoned with, regardless of the track conditions.

As the racing world speculates about Paddington’s next move, O’Brien remains open to possibilities, mentioning the 1 1/4-mile International (G1) at York as a potential target. With his impressive physical growth and ever-increasing calmness, Paddington’s future looks brighter than ever. Owned by a partnership of racing powerhouses, including Michael Tabor, Derrick Smith, Susan Magnier, and Georg von Opel, Paddington has an exciting journey ahead. Notable races like the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in Paris and the Cox Plate in Melbourne are also on the radar, making him a global sensation.

According to a Horse Racing Nation report, part owner of the extraordinary colt, Brant said, “I must say this is among the greatest horses I’ve been proud enough to own. We won the Kentucky Derby in 1984 with a horse called Swale, who was a great racehorse, but this horse has done a lot of special things that are hard to do.” Paddington’s ultimate challenger, Facteur Cheval, could only manage a second place, but his trainer has big plans for his future.

Facteur Cheval’s future equestrian plans

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Trainer Jérôme Reynier, who handles Facteur Cheval, praised the gelding’s remarkable performance, hinting at potential future challenges. The 4-year-old gelding is owned by the esteemed partnership of Barry Irwin and Gary Barber. Reynier revealed the ambitious plans for this rising star by stating that the team is exploring two options. The Moulin de Longchamp (G1, Sept. 3) in Paris or the Woodbine Mile (G1, Sept. 16) in Canada. However, Reynier also remarked that they might wait until Facteur Cheval turns five and then consider an international campaign for the promising racehorse.

Read more: Famed Jockey Worth $286,155,753 Adds Another Win to His Name at Popular Equestrian Race Track

As for Paddington, his future looks super bright as he continues his perfect 2023 run. Even his jockey Ryan Moore believes that the young colt does what he is asked. Whether the ground is soft or good, the colt never disappoints. His trainer chuckled that if needed, Paddington will even gallop on snow in order to keep up his winning streak.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Watch this story: With Over $21,000,000 Wagered on a Single Race Day Prestigious Equestrian Event Shatters Records Set in 2018