Oxagon Secures Craven Victory for Gosden Team

Oxagon has thrown his hat into the ring for the 2000 Guineas with a commanding front-running win in the Betway Craven Stakes, a key trial for the season's opening Classic. The dual Kempton winner Hidden Force, favourite at 11-10, was expected to strengthen Charlie Appleby's challenge but ultimately had to settle for third as Avicenna took the runner-up spot. Oxagon, not seen since finishing last of five in testing conditions at Doncaster in October, made a successful seasonal debut in first-time cheekpieces, benefiting from a controlling ride by Oisin Murphy to win comfortably by two lengths. Trainer John Gosden, who trains the winner in partnership with his son Thady, expressed his high opinion of Oxagon, stating that they probably let the race get away at Doncaster but will likely see the winner Puerto Rico again soon. Gosden admitted Oxagon was disappointing in the Dewhurst but believes the addition of cheekpieces has focused his mind, and connections are now considering a Guineas run after bookmakers cut his odds to 25-1. Meanwhile, veteran sprinter Run To Freedom proved he is no back number with a surprise victory in the Zyn Abernant Stakes at Newmarket, and Portcullis carried the colours of the King and Queen to a spectacular debut success in the Betway Wood Ditton Maiden, sparking excitement about his potential.