Dereham had a delayed start to his 2023 season but he has made up for lost time by winning the only two-mile race at Newmarket's July Course for the second year in a row.
Of course, he couldn't have done it without such a brilliant ride from Harry Davies, who also won on him last year, and again gave him a very well-judged passage through the race to deliver him right on time, denying hot favourite Capone in the shadow of the post. It won't be long before Harry rides out his three-pound claim.
Dereham is the smallest horse in our yard but he has a big heart and an even bigger attitude and he has now won four times, scoring in each of the last three seasons. He is the third offspring of Sir Percy we have had in the stable and, along with Hope Is High and Grand Liaison, their collective tally of victories is now 15.
His latest win was extra special as we had Darren and Natasha staying with us from Australia, and being able to cheer on a winner added to the enjoyment of the day for everyone. Thanks to Harry, and for Abbie for getting Dereham to the races looking a million dollars. The RTV presenter Rachel Candelora was heard to say, "He's not very big but he looks really fit." So it proved.
It was a real thrill to have another winner at our home track. Thanks to Nancy Sexton for the accompanying photograph, and for helping us to drink the Champagne.
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