Graham Richards begins a series highlighting the top two-year-olds of 2007

Henrythenavigator | Kingsgate Native | Myboycharlie | New Approach | Proviso | Raven's Pass | Rio De La Plata | Winker Watson | Zarkava |

WINKER WATSON (19 Feb 2005) ch c

Piccolo - Bonica (Rousillon (USA))
Trainer: P W Chapple-Hyam
FSF Rating: 149
Form: 111

Four-generation pedigree

Winker Watson made his debut at Newbury in April. Noted as a strong, scopey colt, he was sent off a well-backed favourite; eventually coming home two and a half lengths in front of his nearest pursuer.

Kept to five-furlongs for his next outing, he started favourite for the Group Two Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot. Having dwelt at the start, he was held up before making headway a quarter of a mile from home. Leading a furlong out, he hung left with the race at his mercy. However, this did not stop his momentum and he finished well on top at the line.

Upped to six-furlongs for his next race he contested the Group Two July Stakes at Newmarket. Once again, he was slowly into his stride; held up at the rear of the field, he made headway a furlong out, getting on top close home, under a strong ride.

Winker Watson’s breeding suggests he may struggle to stay a truly run mile. Nevertheless, he showed both stamina and determination to win over six-furlongs in July; seven-furlongs should not be a problem.

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July Stakes video

FSF	Speed Rating (up to 11 October)
Teofilo	122
Zarkava	115
Rio De La Plata	115
Natagora	114
Kingsgate Native	114
Fleeting Spirit	113
Myboycharlie	113
New Approach	113
Raven's Pass	113
Winker Watson	113
Proviso	112
Listen	112