Login
WATCH FREE
French Duke reigns supreme at Goodwood
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Wed 31 Jul 2024
French Duke got off the mark for Roger Varian and Wathnan Racing in the Coral Daily Rewards Shaker Handicap at Goodwood.
The Sea The Stars colt was last seen finishing sixth in the King George V Stakes at Royal Ascot and returned to action wearing a hood for the first time.
Under James Doyle, Wathnan’s retained rider, the three-year-old was the 16-5 favourite in a field of 10 as he looked to set aside his maiden status and kickstart a successful meeting for his increasingly-prominent owners.
From stall seven he worked his way through the race, locking horns with John and Thady Gosden’s Lord Of Love in the final furlong and battling on best to prevail by a neck.
“He’s still learning the game, he’s a bit raw and immature,” Varian said.
“After Ascot, where he ran his race upside down, we really wanted to see him finish today.
“In doing so, at a medium gallop on fast ground, we were probably further back than James wanted to be.
“The horse is still learning but he showed toughness there, I think I would upgrade that performance.
“For me he is not the finished article but it was nice to see him tough it out today.
“If you watch the race at Ascot, he ran huge that day but he did too much and moved too early in the race. Today it was very important that he hit the line strong.”
Related posts
Derby stride data: a 12-1 chance who fits the bill
Wednesday tips: Dave Nevison marks your card
The Derby: Ballydoyle 109 Club has two more candidates
Balding warms up for Derby with Italian Classic success
Tuesday tips: Dave Nevison has three best bets
Featured offers
Get a £50 free bet when you bet £50 with Coral
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 get £30 in Free Bets with TalkSportBet
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 Get £30 in free bets + Money back 2nd to SP fav with BOYLE Sports
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Get up to a £25 Bonus + 50 free spins with Genting
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Copyright 2026 Racing TV - All Rights Reserved.
Please bet responsibly
Copyright 2026. All rights reserved