Mgheera, a promising five-year-old mare, has galloped her way into the spotlight after a remarkable performance at the Group 2 Betfred Temple Stakes at Haydock. Ridden by the skilled jockey William Buick, Mgheera clinched victory, finishing half a length ahead, and capped off Buick’s stunning 401-1 four-time winning streak at the event.
Bought by the Lloyd Webbers and Arthur Mitchell, the intention was for Mgheera to head to Australia for breeding duties this summer. Yet with trainer Ed Walker’s hopes high, those plans may see a delay, as Mgheera is now squarely aimed at competing in the King Charles III Stakes at Ascot next month.
Walker, the mare’s dedicated trainer, lavished praise on her abilities after a well-executed race performance that both surprised and thrilled enthusiasts. Despite starting at 10-1 and facing a slow break from the stalls, Mgheera demonstrated her prowess under Buick’s confident guidance. Described as “very exciting,” by Walker, the mare is noted for her commendable sprinting ability, perfectly suited for the challenging course at Ascot.
Her recent winnings have prompted a reduction in her odds for the King Charles III Stakes from 20-1 to 14-1 with prominent bookmakers, strengthening her status as a strong contender. Walker articulated his desire for Ascot to be just one of many racing triumphs for Mgheera, expressing hopes to convince the owners to extend her racing career beyond the summer.
Having found renewed form under Walker’s care, Mgheera’s previous racing record includes a victory in a Listed race. Racing manager Simon Marsh acknowledged the initial plans to pair her with Too Darn Hot in Australia but left room for Walker’s persuasion to keep her racing longer. Her triumph at Haydock further underscores her potential, making her a standout.
In the same meet, Buick began his winning quartet with Great Chieftain in a mile handicap, followed by victories on Diamond Rain in a Listed race for fillies and mares, and Symbol Of Honour in the Sandy Lane. Buick’s seamless fit with Mgheera came as an unexpected but rewarding partnership, remarking on her innate sprinting talents.
As Ascot approaches, Mgheera continues to captivate the racing world with her determined speed and resilience. Should Walker convince the owners to extend her racing days, the mare’s future might include even more high-profile races, potentially including a run in the prestigious Nunthorpe, favored for her sprinting nature.
While she prepares for the task that lies ahead this June, Mgheera has already made her mark. With Ascot lined up as her next challenge, she embodies the spirit and thrill that horse racing brings to the track, enthralling fans and experts alike.
