Royal Ascot 2018 Moments: Trainer Wattel Finally Sees Light At Royal Ascot After A 30 Year Wait
Although ex-Australian Merchant Navy had nosed out the French raider City Light, trainer Stephane Wattel felt it was a new beginning for him. He hopes to secure his first Group 1 win after three decades with a licence.
City Light jockey Christophe Soumillon was equally disappointed with the accolade of runner-up after such a great race.
“He ran a great race,” Wattel said. “I was a little worried before the race as he's not always the best and not always the easiest, but it was a great effort and I’m very happy for his owners and breeders as this was a great opportunity for us.”
City Light has landed the All Weather Sprint Championship at Lingfield and Gr.3 at Longchamp. Wattel hopes that City Light will bring him the elusive Gr.1 breakthrough with the Prix Maurice de Gheest.
He said: “The natural target is the Prix Maurice de Gheest but we have to make sure he's in the same condition as today.
“I’ve waited for 30 years - I hope I don’t have to wait 30 more!”
Credit: Ritesh Jamkhedkar ritesh.jamkhedkar@secretariatsworld.com