By Qipco British Champions Series
GB: Trainer Roger Teal is confident Oxted can perform on the big stage as he and jockey Cieren Fallon aim for their second G1 success of the season in the Qipco British Champions Sprint at Ascot on British Champions Day, Saturday October 17.
The four-year-old, who is trained at Windsor House Stables in Lambourn, provided Teal with a maiden G1 win when storming to victory in the July Cup at Newmarket back in July.
Oxted beat the likes of Commonwealth Cup winner Golden Horde and 2019 Stewards’ Cup winner Khaadem in that race and he looks set to go up against those rivals once again at Ascot.
“He looks amazing and is still keeping his coat, which is great,” said Teal. “He’s training really well and seems to have that mojo back and we’re really happy with him at the moment.
“He’s had a massive impact on the yard, putting us right in the shop window. Winning a Group 1 was amazing and hopefully we’ve got a few more to come.
“We’ve always been happy to compete with the best, that’s what we’re here for,” added the popular trainer. “We’ve always danced the dance with the big boys, and we’ve come out on top a few times and that’s where we want to be.”
Son of my father: landmark success for Cieren Fallon on Oxted – here’s the July Cup takeaway
Oxted’s July Cup was also a first G1 success for reigning champion apprentice Cieren Fallon. “It’s a great opportunity for me, riding a horse with a very live chance on Qipco British Champions Day,” said the jockey.
“I’m very lucky to be in this position with a wonderful horse. Mr Teal and the team have done a brilliant job to get him where he is today and I’m looking forward to it.
“He’s got to go in as one of the favourites after what he’s done this year – he’s beaten most of his rivals in the Sprint category already. He’s only had two runs this year so will be going into the race fresh. It’s not really ground-dependent but if we get quick ground his chances will be better.”
‘I can’t believe I’ve won a G1 as an apprentice’ – Cieren Fallon on his July Cup win on Oxted
Teal continued: “Winning the July Cup was an amazing day. Everything just went to plan. We had the race in mind for a long time. Cieren positioned him beautifully, attacked up the hill, and it was an absolute amazing feeling for everyone involved. The buzz around the place was fantastic.
“Cieren has really gelled with Oxted and has been a massive part of Oxted’s career and Cieren’s career. Both have helped each other amazingly and they just seem to gel. They get on with each other and keep things simple.”
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