Summer Romance creates big impression with stylish Newmarket victory

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.”