Watch out for Hughes' two-year-olds at Goodwood May Festival

Richard Hughes may unleash a couple of his two-year-olds at Goodwood's May Festival.
Richard Hughes at Goodwood / Picture by Malcolm WellsRichard Hughes at Goodwood / Picture by Malcolm Wells
Richard Hughes at Goodwood / Picture by Malcolm Wells

The former champion jockey experienced his first Goodwood winner as a trainer when Russian Realm won at odds of 14/1 at the track’s season opener 12 days ago.

Now Lambourn-based Hughes is hungry for more success at his favourite course and sees the three-day Festival – which starts a week today – as the perfect time to strike.

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After a record crowd of 10,013 for their opener, Goodwood are hopeful of attracting around 25,000 race-goers over the three days, which will feature four listed races that include trials for the upcoming Derby and Oaks.

Hughes, who hosted a visit by the Goodwood Racehorse Owners’ Group on Tuesday, said: “I’m looking forward to the festival and I’m trying to target one or two two-year-olds for the meeting.

“Everyone knows Goodwood is one of my favourite tracks. My first runner was a winner. I had kind of planned it but didn’t think it would turn out that he’d win – but that just shows how lucky the place is for me.”

In a nod to The Queen’s 90th birthday year, the opening race on Thursday has been named The Happy Birthday Your Majesty EBF Novice Stakes.

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The Cocked Hat Stakes, on Friday, was last year won by Storm The Stars who went on to finish third in the Derby.

Following the May Festival, Goodwood’s Three Friday Nights evening meetings will take centre stage, taking place on June 3, 10 and 17.

The final night – when Basement Jaxx will perform a set after racing – has now sold out for general admission. There is still limited availability for the remaining nights, which feature a Sister Bliss Faithless set on June 3 and MistaJam on June 10.

On Sunday, June 5, the racecourse hosts a family raceday in association with the NSPCC, featuring pony racing and hands-on demonstrations and tours.

STEVE BONE

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