Pupil on steep learning curve after fine Chester run

11th May, 2012 - Posted by Elliot Slater - Comments Off

Charles Hills, in his first full season with the trainer’s license handed on to him by his legendary father Barry, seems to be following in the family footsteps in bringing his best horses to the Chester May meeting and despite his Model Pupil finishing an agonisingly close runner-up to Mickdaam in a thrilling renewal of the Group 3 MBNA Chester Vase, all concerned with the colt were thrilled with his performance, writes Elliot Slater.

Although he isn’t currently entered in the Derby there is little doubt that Model Pupil would give a good account of himself at Epsom on June 2 if connections are prepared to stump up a hefty sum to supplement him, as the son of Sinndar appears very much on the upgrade and destined to play his part in pattern race company at a high level throughout this campaign. That form has not gone unnoticed by bookmakers, who are covering all bases by putting significant Betfair Epsom Derby Odds on Model Pupil’s head.

Settled towards the rear of the field Model Pupil, who beat the well regarded Shantaram in a close finish at Newmarket last time out, was hard at work two furlongs from home but really picked up the bit entering the final furlong and would surely have pegged back Mickdaam in just one more stride.

Hills was quick to suggest that he may next go to Royal Ascot for the Group 2 King Edward VII Stakes where he feels the more conventional track should suit the stamina-laden Prince Khaled Abdullah-owned colt, whilst he also hinted that his horse could take him to Doncaster in September and will be trained with the Group 1 Ladbrokes St Leger in mind later in the campaign – something punters on Betfair have taken note of.

Third to Godolphin’s possible Derby candidate Mighty Ambition in what is proving to be a hot maiden on his racecourse bow at Newbury in September, Model Pupil gives the impression of being a horse who is improving with every start and could well be one to keep on the right side this term.