Watch a full replay of how Summer Romance bolted up in the Randox Health Empress Fillies’ Stakes at Newmarket plus James Doyle's interview with Nick Luck. Summer Romance shot to prominence in the ante-post market on next year’s Qipco 1000 Guineas after maintaining her unbeaten record with an impressive success in the Randox Health Empress Fillies’ Stakes at Newmarket.
Having created a taking impression on her debut at Yarmouth, the Charlie Appleby-trained daughter of Kingman paid back another small slice of the 800,000 euros connections laid out for her when taking a step up in class in her stride for Listed honours.
Racing prominently throughout the six-furlong contest, the 5-6 favourite moved smoothly into the lead during the closing stages before being pushed out to score by six lengths, earning a quote of 10-1 for the opening fillies’ Classic with Paddy Power, Sky Bet and Coral.
Appleby said: “This is a filly that has plenty of scope about her and a wonderful pedigree, related to Rizeena, and stepping up in trip is only going to be her forte in time. I was pleased with the way she travelled through the race.
“I don’t want to sound too confident, but it was a straightforward mission for her in the end. She would have learnt a little bit on her first run, but she would have learnt more the week before when I worked her with the Royal Ascot fillies.
“I’ve spoken to His Highness (Sheikh Mohammed) and I would like to give her a little more time and just wait for the seven-furlong races.
“It (Sweet Solera Stakes, at Newmarket) is an option for her for sure. Stepping up to seven furlongs is the next logical step.”