After ending last season with an unbeaten record on the track, a lot was expected from Baaeed this year.
The son of Sea The Stars has started it in the perfect possible way, by cruising to victory in the Group One Lockinge Stakes at Newbury.
William Haggas’ runner powered away from some very good horses in the 1m contest, as they could not match the pace shown by the talented thoroughbred. The likes of 1,000 Guineas winner Mother Earth, dual Group One winner Alcohol Free and established international operator Real World were all left fighting for second place.
This latest win leaves horse racing fans very excited about how good Baaeed could be. Many pundits in the sport are claiming he is the best miler seen on turf since Frankel dominated this division between 2010 and 2012.
Baaeed’s next assignment is likely to be the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot. He is set to be one of the leading horse racing tips for the meeting, as he is a short-priced favourite at 2/5 for the opening contest of the week.
Impressive CV Already for Four-Year-Old Colt
The victory at Newbury was Baaeed’s third straight win at Group One level. His opening success in Group One company came in France last September. He landed the Prix du Moulin at Longchamp.
The Shadwell-owned horse then returned to the UK to prevail on British Champions Day. He was involved in an excellent tussle with Palace Pier in the closing stages of the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes. That race was billed as one of the best duels of the afternoon, and it did not disappoint. Baaeed got the better of his rival by a neck.
His latest win at Newbury was arguably his best so far. He settled into the race very well, despite it being his seasonal reappearance. There was also a lot of pressure on his shoulders to deliver, but he did not let down any of his supporters who had come to watch him in action.
Step Up to 1m2f Likely to Come at York
Connections of the champion miler hinted that they would be prepared to step their horse up in trip later this season, with the 1m2f distance something they are considering.
The Juddmonte International at York’s Ebor Meeting is a race Haggas has highlighted as the one which could see him tackle 1m2f for the first time. That is the race that Frankel first took on the extra 2f and proved he could handle further than 1m.
Given the way he settles into his races, Baaeed is expected to have no problems over 1m2f. If he looks just as impressive at the distance, connections may opt for the Champions Stakes this year at Ascot, rather than defend his crown in the QEII.
Few horses have made the impression Baaeed has made since Frankel retired. He has a lot of racing left in his career, and if he avoids defeat in that period, comparisons with one of the greatest of all time will be justified.
Michael specializes in journalism, digital content production and social media management. He has a passion for numerous sports including football, horse racing and ice hockey. Michael currently works on a freelance basis, producing daily content for various outlets within the sports industry.
